Campara looking to create new goosebump moments for Bosnia and Herzegovina

BRATISLAVA (FIBA U18 European Championship 2017) – The stage was perfectly set on the opening day of the FIBA U18 European Championship, with 2015 U16 European champions Bosnia and Herzegovina squaring off against reigning U18 champions France.

With both sides missing some of their key personnel, the limelight was up for grabs, and Sani Campara was more than happy to seize the opportunity.

After 40 minutes of gritty play, it was Bosnia and Herzegovina prevailing 66-65 and the scoreboard would leave no doubt about who the player of the game was, with 32 points next to Campara's name.

The 18-year-old point guard took his team on his shoulders from tip-off to the final buzzer, scoring eight successive points in crunch time to turn a six-point deficit into a 61-59 lead and pave the way to victory.

"We expected an intense game because France is a very good team, and we gave our all to beat them. I think it's better to start a tournament with a game like this, and we're very happy with the win," said a smiling Campara following the game.

"I felt the game and felt I was hot, and my teammates gave me the ball. I thank them for trusting me. With them playing by my side, I can only grow."

The growth process of every player includes taking on added responsibility with every competition, something Campara is aware of and not shying away from. With Bosnian top talent Dzanan Musa spending the summer with the senior national team, it is upon Campara and forward Njegos Sikiras to take on the leading roles.

"Dzanan is our best player, he was the leader of the 1999-born generation, so without him I think Njegos and me need to take our guys to the games and give them our support because for some of these guys this is their first European Championship," commented Campara.

The Sarajevo-native has plenty of experience to share, having spent every summer with the national team since his U16 debut in 2014, celebrating a historic success two years ago.

Musa, Sikiras and Campara all played a key part in leading the country to a first-ever title in a FIBA competition, leaving the FIBA U16 European Championship with gold around their necks. More than 50,000 residents flooded the streets of Sarajevo to welcome home their young heroes, a moment Campara will never forget.

"It still gives me goosebumps. I am not sure we can reach the same result here, but we for sure can give all that we have and try to come close to it, as this was something special," Campara told FIBA.basketball. "Basketball in Bosnia and Herzegovina grew that year and if we do it again, I think we can create something special in the future."

It is with great pride that Campara speaks about his country, relishing every moment he gets to spend with the national team. The 6ft 2in (1.88m) guard points to his performances with the national team as the main reason he landed a deal with Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid last year.

"I am proud to represent this country. They have given everything to me. I made my transfer because of my performances with the national teams. It is an honor to play for my country and I hope I will do so for many years to come."

With a promise like that, the next goosebump moment is only a matter of time away from happening.

FIBA