Dragovic Helps Serbia To U20 European Championship
By Bruin Basketball Report
UCLA forward Nikola Dragovic grabbed nine rebounds and added six points, including two clutch free throws down the stretch, to help Serbia to an 87-78 win over Spain in the finals of the U20 European Championship.
In eight games, Dragovic averaged 12.1 points on 48.6% shooting and 5.4 rebounds a game. He also shot a sizzling 45.2% from three-point distance. The Bruin sophomore scored a game-high 21 points in the semifinal game against Italy.
Dragovic is part of a nucleus that has also captured the 2003 U16, 2005 U18 and 2006 U20 championships for Serbia.
"I
don't think anybody can beat us. And we're going to eventually show it
in the senior team as well," said Dragovic.
"I feel absolutely wonderful. It's not every day
you win a title of any championship. The U20 European Championship Men
is just one step below the senior national team. I have so many
emotions and it's hard to talk right now," added Serbian coach Vlada
Vukoicic.
Dragovic is expected to challenge for significant playing time in Westwood this season.
The sophomore forward was dealt a setback last year when the NCAA ruled he was ineligible to play in the first ten games of the season.
In a limited role as a freshman, Dragovic averaged just 1.8 points and 1.2 rebounds in six games.
(photo credit FIBA)
Labels: Bruin Player News (Former)
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8 comments
8 Comments:
Drag, better do some defensive squats for hours until your legs burn this summer in hopes of playing for Howland -
Defense!! We all know u can shoot the rock!!
His 9 rebounds in the game are impressive. If he shows that type of effort on the boards next season, he'll get floor time. The guy is 6'8 with a 7'0 wingspan. If he learns to mix it up, he would be a nice PF option for UCLA due to our potential depth issues at the spot in a couple of years.
Anybody see any of the games ... is Drago still defending TALL ... or has he learned the Howland defensive posture yet ???
Will certainly be interesting to see if he can push for minutes without having to deal with that 10 game suspension...
Thats my boy, hes coming up everyone better watch out!
It would be nice to have a consistent three point threat next year.
I like Dragovic, and hope he comes ready this time. I agree on the defensive need, and glad to hear about the rebounds. He will be readier this time out, won't have the suspension to deal with, and hopefully, his competitive urge will help him carry the day to lots of minutes with the Bruins!
I think that Keefe and Drag are really going to develop this year and add a whole new element to UCLA's game.
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