The UAE got their feet wet on their FIBA U17 World Championship debut and came away less focused on the lopsided scoreboard and more interested in getting a learning experience.
The UAE were overpowered by the much taller Italians, who laid a 121-32 drubbing to the host country at Al Ahli Arena in Dubai last evening.
The UAE’s zone defence was carved by Italy’s passing and the discrepancy in height was apparent with Italy scoring easy baskets in the paint and finishing with a 61-27 rebounding edge. “Those things will not change but what I believe is tomorrow we will be able to take extra hit, which we didn’t take today because it was overwhelming,” said UAE coach Zoran Zupcevic. “At least we come to some kind of comfort zone. Is this going to change something on the scoreboard?
“It will not, but step by step with this type of experience we are definitely going to get the benefit as long as we don’t focus on the scoreboard.”
Meanwhile, Spain also dropped their first game in a 67-65 loss to Puerto Rico.
Stephane Gombauld led France to a 76-66 victory over Canada with the big man totalling 28 points and 20 rebounds.
In the other games, Australia beat Japan 97-84, Serbia defeated China 80-68 and Argentina overwhelmed Egypt 74-39.
The World Championship continue tonight with games at Al Ahli and Al Shabab Arena
