Ten NBA games were played on Saturday night in the US.
Just last week we introduced the new NBA season to our readers where Croatia has six representatives - Bojan Bogdanović, Dario Šarić, Mario Hezonja, Dragan Bender, Ivica Zubac, and Ante Žižić.
Ahead of Croatia’s best basketball players is a lot of work - some have a secured their spot in the starting five, some are still fighting for a minute from the bench, while others battle for their next contract. In what will be a crucial season for some, which could determine the future of their careers, we thought we’d keep up with our favorite Croatian basketball stars this season to rave about when they’re making waves for their teams, and keep track of who is struggling to find their chance in the NBA spotlight
Bogdanović and Šarić are solid in the wins of Indiana and Philadelphia
The Indiana Pacers won at home against the Brooklyn Nets 132:112, with Bojan Bogdanović taking 15 points and shooting 3/3 for three-pointers, while Dario Šarić’s Philadelphia 76ers claimed the home victory over Orlando in a close 116:115 game.
Šarić secured 13 points, nine rebounds, five assists, and one block to win the ball.
Hezonja sees minutes for the Knicks against the Celtics
The New York Knicks suffered a defeat at Madison Square Garden to the Boston Celtics (103:101), though the 23-year-old Mario Hezonja spent nine minutes in the game, scoring two baskets and one rebound.
Bender gets time on the court, but misses a crucial three-pointer
The Phoenix Suns lost in Denver to the Nuggets with a score of 119:91. Dragan Bender received three minutes on the court, missed a three-pointer, and secured one rebound.
No luck for Zubac as LeBron James debuts for the Lakers
Ivica Zubac did not find time on the court during LeBron James’ debut in front of Lakers fans at the Staples Center. The Lakers lost to Houston 124:115, and in addition to the 36 points by last season's MVP James Harden, the match was marked by a brawl four minutes before the end. The incident started from LA Lakers player Brandon Ingram who pushed Harden. The scuffle was then escalated by Rajan Rondo and Chris Paul. Ingram, Rondo, and Paul were then excluded from the game.
Ante Žižić's Cleveland Cavaliers will play against the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday.
