By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
Poland remains undefeated in the 2019 FIBA World Cup. Mike Taylor’s national team went through Venezuela, China and Ivory Coast in the first round in Beijing, followed up with a clinching win over Russia on Friday. The Poles punched a quarterfinal ticket with one game in hand, Sunday’s tilt against Argentina.
“This was a big game for us. We knew what it meant, that if we get a win, we’re in the top eight” A.J. Slaughter took out from the game versus Russia, FIBA relays. “I am glad we fought together and got it done tonight.”
Serbia or Spain will be the quarterfinal opponent, but Poland might not be done just yet. “Really happy to be here on this adventure with our team,” said head coach Mike Taylor. “I’m so proud of this team and how we’re playing.”
“This is huge for us as a team and the country of Poland, being here after 52 years, on this magical run,” said Slaughter on Poland making it back to the World Cup after five decades and the meaning of the undefeated run. “It’s special for us to be in the top eight. We’re just so proud of our team and seeing our hard work pay off. We’re here to give the country of Poland something to be proud about.”
“I don’t know how to react,” mentioned Adam Hrycaniuk. “Whether to shed a tear or stay focused. I am a tough man who has something else to prove, but this adventure does not end for us.”
“This means everything for Poland basketball,” explained head coach Taylor. “They can take confidence because of this win.”
“We are in a continent with great teams, and we can say we can compete with these teams” he added. “We are trying to establish that we can do it, too. We have no big names, but we have shown that a great team that plays hard and develops over years can do great things. We hope these guys can inspire the next generation.”