Svetislav Pesic gives an update on Vasilije Micic injury / News - Basketnews.com

Serbian NT head coach Svetislav Pesic couldn't tell how severe is Vasilije Micic's injury but emphasized the importance of medical staff by saying that they must prevent swelling in the ankle.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Serbia achieved a great win over Greece in FIBA World Cup 2023 qualifiers, but a concerning Vasilije Micic injury left a bittersweet taste.

Player of the Game EFF 28 Nikola Jokic Points 29 Accuracy 11-16 Rebounds 8 Assists 6

Micic, a back-to-back EuroLeague Final Four MVP, injured his right ankle at the end of the second quarter after awkwardly landing on the court. He left the court only with the help of the Serbian national team staff.

Serbia's head coach Svetislav Pesic gave an update on the Micic injury, hoping everything will be okay.

"We hope it's not a serious injury, but it's something that can disturb you a lot," Pesic said after the win. "I wouldn't talk too much about it now, let's spend the night, and we'll see."

"The most important thing is that the medical team would do everything to prevent swelling. If that doesn't happen, there are good chances that he will return, otherwise... We will see," Pesic added.

In 12 minutes, Micic managed to accumulate 9 points (1/2 2PT, 2/2 3PT, 1/1 FT), 3 assists, 1 rebound, and 12 EFF.

He was substituted by Ognjen Jaramaz, who spent 24 minutes on the floor and finished the game with 15 points (3/4 2PTT, 3/4 3PT), 2 rebounds, 1 steal, 4 turnovers, and 12 EFF.

Pesic praised Jaramaz, saying that Serbia needs such players. Did he give a special speech during halftime?

"Jaramaz played quite well even before Vasa was injured.Vasa's departure was difficult for us, he opened the game well," Pesic admitted. "Such a player is necessary for a top result."

"I'm glad that the team supported Jaramaz, gave him confidence and energy, I see that everyone helps each other, which is the most important thing, so sometimes it doesn't matter what the coach said," the Serbian head coach continued.

Vasilije Micic

Team:Anadolu Efes IstanbulPosition:PG, SGAge:28Height:195 cmWeight:92 kgBirth place:Kraljevo, SerbiaProfileNewsStatistics

Despite a good effort from the team, Pesic says that Serbia still has areas to improve before the upcoming EuroBasket and another qualifiers game against Turkey.

"It would not be good if this is our limit. We gave our best because the players were concentrated, had good preparation, and played in an impressive atmosphere.

I have to say that we are still in the process of playing together, and if we want to go to Turkey to win, we have to improve some things, and above all, the defense of the transition game," said Pesic.

However, as you would expect, Pesic was still happy with his team's victory, keeping the hopes of qualifying for the World Cup alive.

"This was a game at the limit of physical and mental capabilities. It is much better to win than to lose. When you win, the first coffee in the morning is much better, you feel some satisfaction because you feel that what you invested is coming back to you," Pesic concluded.

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