Posted on 5 June, 2011
The Emus will begin their preparation for the World Championships with a tour of Europe in May followed by a tour of Lithuania in early June, the World Championships then begin in Latvia on 30 June 2011.
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Emus wrap up Coratian series (courtsey of Basketball Australia)
On a balmy late spring evening in Crikvenica the Emus secured a resounding victory in the third and final game against Croatia, 88–60, the Emus winning the series two games to one.
Mitch Creek led all scorers for the Emus with 28 points accumulated with an outstanding field goal conversion of 78 per cent. Mitch McCarron had 21 points off 75 per cent shooting, while Hugh Greenwood finished with 15 points.
The first quarter was an even contest with both teams creating many open shots, the Emus taking a narrow three-point lead into the first break.
The Emus started the second quarter in a positive manner and gradually built on their first quarter lead. Midway through the quarter the Emus had extended to 13 points in front, but then some poor decisions in offence in the last few minutes of the half allowed the Croatians to whittle the lead to seven points at the half time break.
The third quarter saw the Emus regain their composure with some excellent defensive pressure. By the final break the lead was still13 points.
With the Emus transition game in full flow in the final quarter, the margin continued to grow, the Emus ultimately recording a 28 point victory.
Head Coach Damian Cotter was very pleased with the effort shown by the team.
“In particular, our ball pressure helped us control the game tempo,” said Damian Cotter.
“Whilst the win was good, we now need to set our sights on Russia and keep improving as we build towards the Worlds,” he said.
The team departed Croatia today headed for Moscow, Russia for their next three games.
Final Score: Australia 88 defeated Croatia 60
1st Quarter: 17 – 14
2nd Quarter: 40 – 33 (23 -19)
3rd Quarter: 64 – 51 (24 – 18)
4th Quarter: 88 – 60 (24 – 9)
