Luka Doncic reacts to his technical foul, names World Cup favorites / News - Basketnews.com

Luka Doncic named Team USA and Canada as the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 favorites, adding that it was the first time he saw that the player was given technical four for shooting the ball after the whistle.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Slovenia national team secured its ticket to the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 quarterfinal, and the team's captain Luka Doncic shared his happiness about how the whole team stepped up.

Player of the Game EFF 33 Mike Tobey Points 18 Accuracy 8-10 Rebounds 12 Assists 5

"It was a very hard game," Doncic said in the post-game conference. "Australia had to win no matter what, we also went into a game like no matter what. I mean, they have a great team and great players, but I'm really proud of how we played today."

"Everybody stayed together no matter what. They [Australia] double-teamed me every possession, and everybody made the right play. We stayed together, and I think we are a great team," Doncic added.

The game between Slovenia and Australia didn't go away without some controversies. Doncic got into early foul trouble, picking up his 3rd personal foul with more than 8 minutes to go in the 2nd quarter.

Doncic received a technical for shooting the ball to the basket and admitted that it was something he didn't see throughout his career.

"I got 3 fouls with 8 minutes to go in 2nd quarter. It was the first time I saw the technical [foul] call when you shoot the ball," Doncic said. "I think every game, every player does it once. The other referee told me it was the first time he saw that. I don't really understand, but I trust my teammates."

Doncic also made a highlight in the 4th quarter, but it wasn't a flashy pass or a step-back 3-pointer. 2.01-meter (6'7) guard made a crucial block on his Dallas Mavericks teammate Josh Green.

"It was pretty cool," Doncic admitted. "2-on-1 situation, and it was a big moment to block it. I think we scored two more baskets after that, so it was a big moment in the game."

Up next, Slovenia will face Germany in a game that will decide which team will top Group K.

The winner of the game potentially could have an easier path to the semifinal. It's likely that the 2nd-placed team in Group K will face Canada from L.

Asked about which teams he considers the favorites in the World Cup, Doncic included Canada.

"Probably the USA or Canada," Doncic answered to the BasketNews question.

"We go game by game, and I don't know where will we land at the end, but I can assure you that we will give our everything every game like you saw today. It was a really important game, and we gave everything," Doncic continued when he was asked whether he considers Slovenia as one of the favorites.

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