KATOWICE (Eurobasket Women) - The first six days of action at EuroBasket Women in Poland have produced a fair share of shock results, but there is perhaps no bigger and better surprise than Montenegro.

Miodrag Baletic's charges are undefeated (4-0) following their 81-60 win over Croatia in their opening game of the Second Round and have already booked their place in the Quarter-Finals.

Impressive and inspiring for just about any team, but even more so when considering that the Montenegrins are making their debut at the EuroBasket.

Not that anyone could tell it was their first time as they dispatched Spain, hosts Poland and Germany in Group C of the Preliminary Round, and for the most part did so with considerable ease.

It seems Montenegro have a knack for doing things faster than anyone.

Two years ago, they were promoted from Division B to Division A and last summer, at the first attempt, they qualified for the EuroBasket.

For Baletic, a veteran coach with 40 years of experience - which include being in charge of most national teams of the former Yugoslavia - the results up to this point are the fruits of hard labour.

"I am happy because this team is starting to experience some success," he said.

"For three years we worked hard. It was not easy at the beginning but I am happy now because I see my team as a serious one, one that knows how to play."

Baletic can call on experienced players who have played at the highest level in Europe, including two Jelenas - Skerovic and Dubljevic - as well as Iva Perovanovic who is an unstoppable force down low.

The only downside for Montenegro is the loss of Baletic's daughter, Ana, to a knee injury suffered in the opening day win over Spain.

The 25-year-old has been ruled out for the tournament and flew to Belgrade on Thursday to see whether she needs surgery.

She hopes to be able to return to Poland and cheer her team-mates as they continue their run in the tournament.

If all goes according to plan, Baletic will get her chance to return to the court and play for Montenegro at next year's Olympic Games.

It would be a mistake to put it beyond them to qualify in record time.

FIBA