Bogan Bogdanovic scored 27 points, including five consecutive three-pointers in the second half, as Croatia held off a surprisingly tough Finland team 84-79.
Bogdanovic showed off an advanced offensive repertoire. Along with six three-pointers, Bogdanovic scored on cuts to the basket, created his own shot out of the post, leaked out in transition for a dunk, and knocked down his free throws. Finland’s defense – though certainly not NBA-level – was scrambling all game, and Bogdanovic hit his share of shots late with a hand in his face. Bogdanovic grabbed his fair share of rebounds and remained active on defense, picking up two steals and hounding Finland’s sharpshooters in the second half.
Finland isn’t NBA-level competition – the team was woefully undersized against Croatian centers Ante Tomic and Luka Zoric – but if today is any indication, Bogdanovic certainly has a little Paul Pierce in him. He’s got a long way to go to before he can call himself the Truth, but BoBo got to his spots and made his shots all game.
Croatia’s next scheduled game is tomorrow against Macedonia at 2 P.M.
