Guduric praises Bogdanovic's locker room speech, expects to see Jovic in the EuroLeague / News - Basketnews.com

Marko Guduric said Bogdan Bogdanovic's speech inspired Serbia national team to stay in their zone on their way to the FIBA World Cup quarterfinal game against Lithuania.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

After sparking Serbia in the first half of the quarterfinal game, Bogdan Bogdanovic continued to play a crucial role in securing their victory against Lithuania off the court.

Player of the Game EFF 25 Bogdan Bogdanovic Points 21 Accuracy 9-13 Rebounds 4 Assists 3

With 18 points scored before halftime, which gave Serbia a commanding double-digit lead (49-38), Bogdanovic displayed his leadership qualities in the locker room and team huddle.

"You all know Bogdan. He's our captain. How he's playing for the national team... He's always there. He's a great leader," Guduric praised Bogdanovic to BasketNews.

"When we were up, he gave us a good speech during halftime. We were in the same situation against Italy. So he gave a good speech about staying calm, staying together, and being smart. That's the leadership we need, that's our captain," said Guduric, who had 9 points and 6 assists in 16 minutes.

Bogdanovic, himself was surprised by Guduric's praise.

"Sometimes I don't know how to behave in these moments. It's just coming out of me. A lot of emotions. A lot of great players were leaders of this national team. I'm just happy to be in this position. But we're all the same in the locker room," Bogdanovic reacted.

"Maybe I said something to Guduric that he likes," he smiled. "I'm happy that he took it as something that helped him. But honestly, I don't remember what I said. But it feels great."

Stefan Jovic was among the key factors behind a solid win against Lithuania.

He made three decisive 3-pointers during the third quarter, in which Serbia outscored their opponents by 7 points, ultimately solidifying their lead and securing the victory.

"Jovki is amazing... EuroLeague misses him. I miss him. I miss watching him in the EuroLeague," Guduric said to BasketNews.

"He's an amazing guy. Amazing point guard. He's one of the rare real point guards who always looks for his teammates and passes. And he's always there in defense. I hope to see him soon in the EuroLeague," he added.

Jovic's most recent stint was with Zaragoza.

Guduric hopes that an increasing number of Serbian fans will journey to Manila to witness the talents of Jovic, Bogdanovic, and the entire senior national team for the semifinal game.

"Serbian people are everywhere. They love basketball. This is a huge achievement for us. I want to say thank you to these guys who came. Hopefully, even more people will be in Manila," Guduric smiled.

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