Deni Avdija: 'It was a special experience to play against Serbia' / News - Basketnews.com

Israel gave their all on Tuesday night against Nikola Jokic-led Serbia but fell short. However, Israeli players Deni Avdija and Yam Madar enjoyed the experience and fight they provided.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Israel fought against the Serbian national team fiercely on Tuesday night but eventually came up short and lost to the star-studded Serbian squad, which was led by NBA MVP Nikola Jokic.

Deni Avdija

Position:SG, SFAge:21Height:200 cmBirth place:IsraelProfileNewsStatistics

After Israel's defeat with the final score of 89-78, Israel players Deni Avdija and Yam Madar were happy with the fight their team provided but believe they had a chance to win.

Avdija, who finished the game with 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists, said it was really difficult for him to even get the ball in the game against Serbia.

"It's difficult, we always want to win. They tried to shut me out of the game. I did what I could to encourage my teammates," said Avdija.

"There were ups and downs, we were close to taking the lead, but the opportunity slipped away and that made me a little hurt. It was a special experience to play against Serbia," said the 21-year-old talent.

At the start of the group stage, Avdija managed to outwit Lauri Markanen and defeat Finland, with 23 points and 15 rebounds. However, he could not win the duel with Jokic.

Another Israeli player, Yam Madar was happy with the fight his team provided the Serbians.

"We fought proudly, we didn't let them do what they wanted. We tried until the end and I'm really proud of the boys," said Madar.

"We came to win, but one unsportsmanlike foul cut our wings and it was difficult to come back. Congratulations to Serbia, they are a very talented team," added Madar.

"All the players gave us problems, but I am proud and I have no doubt that we will win on Thursday," said Madar.

Madar also commented on Jokic's brilliant play, for which the Israelis never managed to find a solution.

"He [Nikola Jokic] did what he wanted. We tried to make his job difficult, but it didn't work. As a team, we are aware that people believe in us and follow us closely," said the guard.

"I am proud of my teammates. We didn't win, but the match on Thursday is to be or not to be," concluded Madar.

Serbia improved to a 4-0 record in EuroBasket group D, while Israel dropped down to a 2-2 record but still has a chance to advance. Israeli's faith will be decided by themselves in a game against the Group D hosts the Czech Republic on Thursday.

Subscribe to BN+ and get access to exclusive content.