Croatia’s U16 basketball team returned to Zagreb as European Champions this afternoon.
Croatia’s brilliant U16 basketball team became the champions of Europe last night after defeating Spain in the final in Novi Sad. Upon their return to Zagreb on Sunday, a press conference was held which, among the players and professional staff, included Dino Rađa and Stojko Vranković who were in Novi Sad with the young basketball stars, reports Gol.hr on August 19, 2018.
"You have not only shown that you are golden on the court, but you are golden in behavior, and that is something your parents and all of us can be proud of. This gold is a product of the system and the unique cadets and A1 league. Take a break and do not miss any school,” Stojko Vranković said.
The president of the HKS expert council, Dino Rađa, commented in detail on the success.
''Congratulations to everyone who participated in this. Because I was with them, I would like to point out that the parents could be proud of the way they behaved the entire time. This team is the Federation's project, we were aware that we had to dig from the beginning, start from the youngest and build their love for the team, that there would be no dismissal later, that they would be good friends and ready for national team action.
They've shown awesome bravery together, that is a moment you cannot learn, and you're born with. They have shown remarkable bravery on three occasions, and for that I am proud. They have shown selflessness and played as a team, you can see that they are friends and will help one other, and we want to raise such generations in the future.
Nobody tried to be a star, everyone waited for their five minutes to give that 'push' and it turned into a beautiful fairytale.
They have to avoid the key problem: they cannot think that they are now players and that this is over. Everyone has a flaw, you have to look into the mirror, see what you’re missing and work on it. It's the only road and the only way to make a big career.
Great work to the parents for raising these children, but let the coaches guide them. Do not listen to managers, there is a situation today where players work for managers, and not vice versa, but we are always available to the Federation. Managers have their other interests.
Boys, excellent work, you have made me cry these last few days when I rarely do, and you have given me great pleasure and I thank you for that,” concluded Rađa.
After Rađa spoke coach Milan Karakaš.
"I would say that I am extremely proud and happy about the results, but also about all 50 days of preparation. From the first day there was great communion, thanks to the guys who are great characters. The biggest praise was when the rivals approached me after the game and said we play beautifully, that it was an example for all the teams on how to play on the court," said Karakaš.
"I think I'm talking on behalf of everyone by saying this was a great pleasure, I played to the final, I did not feel the stress because it was so nice to play such an important game. I wish luck to all of my teammates and friends in all of their future careers,” Captain Matej Bošnjak said.
"I agree with everything the captain has said, I would like to add that this was a beautiful month, the team was great, we were well connected and it was a pleasure to play with this team," said the MVP of the championship, Roko Prkačin.
"I agree with everything, this has been a great experience for me, we have created good chemistry that has helped us to fight in difficult moments. I wish success to all players and I will see you next summer," said Boris Tišma, who, with Prkačin, made the best team of the European championship.
“Everything has been said, it was a great experience and pleasure, and I hope that we will see each other again and repeat this success," concluded Ivan Perasović, son of celebrated former basketball player Velimir.
