Micic scores 21, leads Serbia to win against Puerto Rico / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

The hosts of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Belgrade didn't have to face many problems in their semifinal matchup against Puerto Rico, securing a 102-84 (28-26; 23-14; 28-28; 23-16) victory.

Player of the Game EFF 21 Vasilije Micic Points 21 Accuracy 5-10 Rebounds 1 Assists 8

Both teams had a good first quarter on offense. After Nemanja Bjelica's last-second three, Serbia had a two-point advantage after one (28-26).

After exchanging empty possessions to begin the second, the home team started to increase their lead. After Teodosic's three, the Serbs had an eight-point advantage with 4:56 remaining. They finished the quarter strong and held an 11-point advantage at halftime (51-40).

The third period went back and forth, with Serbia's lead ranging from six to 13 points. The quarter ended up in a tie score leaving Serbia with the same lead, as they had going into the half (79-68).

Puerto Rico managed to keep things interesting until the four-minute mark. That's when Serbia kicked into high gear and increased their lead to comfortable 15 points with 3:15 remaining. They held firm and punched their ticket to the OQT final.

EuroLeague MVP Vasilije Micic led Serbia with 21 points and 8 dimes. Nemanja Bjelica aided him with 18 points and seven rebounds.

For Puerto Rico, three players combined for 60 of the team's 84 points. Isaiah Pineiro had 23 points, George Conditt supplied 20, and Gian Clavell added 17.

Serbia will take on Italy in tomorrow's final game for a ticket to the Tokyo Olympic Games.

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