Croatia had a chance to put a vice grip on their group and hold home court with Greece’s backs against the wall. Croatia had a 10-point lead in the fourth quarter.
Greece though has a way of grinding down a defense with its half-court execution, particularly using the pick and roll. Their guards are smart and capable of stepping out and hitting threes when you lay off or driving in and dishing to their skilled big men when you press up.
Some youthful mistakes cost Croatia in the end as Greece pulled out the 72-70 win. Croatia did have a chance to tie at the end as Krunoslav Simon intentionally missed his second free throw, picked up his own rebound and missed a 15-footer at the buzzer.