Netherlands stun Croatia behind Franke's heroics

ALMERE (FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 European Qualifiers) - Paced by a phenomenal individual display from Yannick Franke, Netherlands registered the biggest upset of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 European Qualifiers yet, stunning Croatia 68-61 at home in Almere on Friday.

Turning Point: Having held a slight edge throughout the first three-quarters, the home side fell into a five-minute slump at the start of the fourth quarter, allowing the Croats to go up 54-50 halfway through the frame. However, Roeland Schaftenaar and Franke responded with two-man 6-0 run to jump-start the Dutch side.

Game Hero: Yannick Franke hung on the rim for a couple of extra seconds after a game-sealing dunk for good reason. He was instrumental in the emotional Dutch victory with 24 points and 5 rebounds, missing just twice from the field.

Stats Don't Lie: There wasn't much between the teams in the boxscore, but the hosts took advantage of their fast break opportunities better, outscoring Croatia 15-7 in this regard.

Bottom Line: This was the first-ever victory for the Netherlands against Croatia in competitive play, giving them plenty of confidence before their next fixture on the road against Romania, where they will be the favorites.

They Said: "It was a close game, very close until the end. The game was basically decided in the last 30 seconds. We had our chance at 54-50, but unfortunately we didn't use it." - Croatian national team head coach Ivica Skelin.

"Our game plan worked. We played defense the way needed to be successful. We were in control for the most of the game. I think it was a great team effort and I believe we can talk about the fact that this team is continuing to improve little by little every year." – Dutch national team head coach Toon Van Helfteren.

FIBA