By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
The Serbs started their FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Qualifiers campaign with two victories as they beat Austria and Georgia in Belgrade.
Macvan scored 18 points in the win over the Georgians, to cancel out a heroic solo effort by Georgia’s Michael Dixon, as the American-born point guard poured in a game-high 36 points and dished out 9 assists. The same as the other teams Serbia’s roster was mixed as the key players were unable to play because of the obligation to their clubs. Because of that some new young players were selected to play for Serbia as Stefan Peno, Dejan Todorovic, Aleksa Radanov and others.
“Every one of them deserves to be here. They are an investment for the future and it’s great that we’ve been able to bring them into the fold for these Qualifiers. They will be ready to take over as leaders when their time comes because the present learning curve and the experience of playing for the national team will have been priceless.” Macvan told FIBA.
“I am also sure they will show how much the Qualifiers have boosted their confidence when they return to their clubs,” Macvan said and added:
“They will improve with every round of the Qualifiers. They will need to because every opponent we face is going to be fired up against a team of Serbia’s stature.”
Playing in the front of own fans is always special for the players and Macvan is thankful to the Serbian fans.
“I want to thank the fans for turning up in big numbers. It means the world to us – especially to the young guys who made their international debuts for Serbia,” Macvan said after Monday’s game.
“It was amazing to play in a full house against Georgia. We are all eager to play for the national team and will never miss an opportunity to put on our Serbia shirts. It’s the greatest feeling.”
Photo credit: FIBA