With victory over Croatia, New Zealand reshuffles the deck
After winning 16 points against sloveniaCroatia had the chance to secure first place in the Athens TQO group and thus pave the way to Paris 2024. But their short defeat to New Zealand (90-86) changed the situation, even if the Croats at least secured second place. A place that would certainly send them to the semi-finals.
Corey Webster's teammates (21 points) managed to win even though the Croats, led by the very dominant Ivica Zubac (29 points on 12/15 shooting, 16 rebounds, 43 points in 24 minutes) – but also Dario Saric, 19 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists and Mario Hezonja at 16 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists – still led by 7 points with three minutes to go.
Greece – Group 1
ðŸ‡ðŸ‡· Croatia qualified for the European Championship finals #Vibawct semi final
🇳🇿 New Zealand will qualify if they beat Slovenia or lose by no more than 9 points.
🇸🇮 Slovenia will qualify if they beat New Zealand by 10 points or more.— International Basketball Federation (@FIBA) July 3, 2024
Slovenia uses calculator
Croatia's fate is no longer in their own hands when it comes to first place. A win for the New Zealanders against the Slovenians on Thursday would send the Tall Blacks into the lead and eliminate Luka Doncic's gang. But the latter, despite his opening disappointment, could still qualify with a win by 10 points or more.
In the other group, Greece, the Dominican Republic and Egypt are competing for the other two tickets to qualify for the semi-finals.
Boxscore Croatia – New Zealand
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