By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
The FIBA World Cup marathon starts and Eurohoops is here to help you survive it. It will be days full of basketball, but early in the tournament some games are much more important than others, so you have to pick the right one, because from the get go some pretty crucial contest will be played. So here’s today’s timetable.
The schedule (local time)
Group B: Croatia – Philippines (12.30)
Group C: Ukraine – Dominican Republic (12.30)
Group D: Angola – Korea (12.30)
Group A: Egypt – Serbia (15.30)
Group C: New Zealand – Turkey (16.00)
Group D: Australia – Slovenia (16.30)
Group B: Puerto Rico – Argentina (17.30)
Group A: France – Brazil (18.00)
Group D: Mexico – Lithuania (19.00)
Group B: Greece – Senegal (20.00)
Group C: USA – Finland (21.30)
Group A: Iran – Spain (22.00)
The must-sees
In Group A France and Brazil will duel in the game that may decide from the first day who will finish at least in the second place of the final group standings. Expect a great fight and if you are a Spurs fans get ready for Boris Diaw vs Tiago Splitter action.
In Group B the key game is Puerto Rico vs Argentina. The Argentinians have the prestige and the pedigree but it will be quite a test for current roster and also an indication about what they can achieve this year in Spain. Unfortunately those two games start almost at the same time, so take your pick.
In Group C both games between Ukraine and Dominican Republic and also between New Zealand and Turkey are crucial. It’s a quite open group with USA the favorite to stay unbeaten and everyone else hoping for something good.
In Group D you can’t miss Australia vs Slovenia. Dragic vs Exum and two opponents which have ambitions in this tournament for something big.
The individual attractions
Ready for some more Greek freak? Giannis Antetokounmpo is going to make his official debut with the Greek national team, Senegal fits his style of play and big things are expected from him.
Also keep an eye on Australia’s Aron Baynes. He can exploit the front line of Slovenia and start the tournament with a bang. The same applies for Croatian boy wonder Dario Saric, who is expected to have a field day against Philippines.
The one sided affairs
Team USA is not going to face any real competition in Group C and that applies in the first day for Spain in Group D and for Croatia in Group B.