Serbia kick into higher gear in second quarter, cruise past Venezuela

RIO DE JANEIRO (Rio 2016 Olympic Games) - Serbia needed almost a full quarter to hit their stride but once they did, there was no stopping them.

With a significant advantage on the boards and a steady supply of points from Miroslav Raduljica, the Serbians started their Olympic campaign with a resounding 86-62 victory over Venezuela on Saturday night.

Getting out on the fast break early and often, Sasha Djordjevic's team cruised to a decisive victory.

Turning point: Venezuela gave as good as they got for most of the first quarter and were tied at 14-14 when Serbia shifted into a higher gear. The Europeans scored the last four points of the opening frame and then started the second period on a tear before outscoring the South Americans 26-9 going into halftime.

Stats Don't Lie: Serbia out-rebounded Venezuela 41-25 on the night.

Game Hero: Raduljica was a menace, pouring in 18 points in just over 15 minutes.

The Bottom Line: Serbia were favorites in this game and they played like it. They were superior in nearly every aspect of the game but will face far tougher opposition on Monday in a battle of unbeatens against Australia. It doesn't get any easier for Venezuela because next up for them are the United States.

FIBA