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| Nikola Vucevic stomped his dominance on Mexico. Cesca Rampas |
PASAY CITY--Nikola Vucevic showed his class against the opposition as he powered Montenegro to a win over Mexico, 91-71, in Group D's opening game of the FIBA World Cup 2023 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Chicago Bulls center scored a huge double-double with 27 points and 10 rebounds on an efficient 8/12 shooting from the field including 3/3 from three.
When asked about his 3-point shooting's impact on the game, Vucevic quipped: "It always helps. I feel like I'm at my best if I play close to the basket and get going. Once I was able to get going, I was able to step out and make some shots."
"It opens up so much for myself and my team and I got some good looks. I was not trying to force anything, and it worked," Vucevic added in the post-game interview.
Naturalized player Kendrick Perry added 16 points and seven assists for the Black Mountains, who start off their FIBA World Cup campaign on a good note.
Pako Cruz led Mexico in a losing effort with 16 points and six assists.
Up next for Montenegro are Egypt while Mexico faces Lithuania. Both games will be played on Sunday in the same venue.
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