TUR – Turkoglu: “We have to minimize mistakes”

ISTANBUL (2010 FIBA World Championship) – After an historic win yesterday in the semifinals against Serbia, Turkish captain Hedo Turkoglu is clear of what they need to do to beat the USA in the FIBA World Championship finals today.

“We have to minimize mistakes because they (USA) are a good team on the open court. We don’t want to give them any opportunities like easy baskets and we will try to keep the game close”, said Turkoglu after the game against Serbia.

So far in this tournament, Turkey handles the ball better than most teams, being third in turnovers with 11.4 per game, only Greece (10.8), who is already eliminated, and Argentina (10.3) have been better in this tournament.

Keeping the game close is what makes the Turkish dangerous; yesterday they had an up and down battle with the Serbians in the semifinals that finished with a miracle lay-up by Kerem Tunceri to send them into the Gold medal game.

Still, not many experts picked Turkey to go far into this tournament, but every day the team got stronger and will now face their toughest challenge yet.

“The good thing about this team is that somebody shows up, and even if they don’t have a good game, they help defensively or in some other area.”

“If I told you this two months ago, would you take it? I am trying to enjoy everything, I am glad to be a part of this,” said Turkoglu who made his debut with the senior team in 1999 and plays in his second FIBA World Championship.

Their opponent, USA, comes into the final led by Kevin Durant, who has been unstoppable so far and also with a great defense that pressures guards in order to have easier opportunities offensively.

“He (Durant) has been great, hot; we have to minimize his shots.”

“Every game is different, I know how they play, they are good on defense and that is why they will be here as well. We have to take care of the basketball.”

To see the Finals of the 2010 FIBA World Championship between Turkey and Team USA, plus highlights and postgame reaction visit FIBATV.com.

FIBA