USA v. Slovenia in World Cup Quarterfinals

By Sean Kennedy (@PhillyFastBreak)

After taking care of Mexico over the weekend, the United States will next attempt to dispatch Slovenia in a quarterfinal matchup today at 3PM EST. Slovenia finished 4-1 in the group stage, with a 3-point loss to Jonas Valanciunas and Lithuania the lone blemish on their ledger. Despite the relative ease with which they advanced, there was actually some controversy in the Slovenia camp during group play, as Slovenia accused Australia of tanking a game against Angola to avoid this potential quarterfinal matchup with the United States. FIBA is now investigating the claims, while Australia ended up losing to Turkey by 1 in the Round of 16 for their troubles.

Over the weekend, Slovenia survived a spirited effort from the Dominican Republic, finally pulling away late for a 10-point victory in the Round of 16. Although the Slovenia national team isn’t well-known to the casual basketball fan, we’ll actually be treated to the best individual opponent the US has faced thus far in the World Cup.

Any discussion of Slovenia begins with Goran Dragic, as the 6’3″ guard experienced a true breakout season with the Phoenix Suns last season. Efficiently scoring 20.3 points per game on 50.5% shooting from the field and 40.8% behind the arc, Dragic also doled out 5.9 assists while finishing 20th in the NBA in Player Efficiency Rating. ‘The Dragon’ was arguably the biggest all-star snub a year ago, having the misfortune of playing guard in a loaded Western Conference for the position. A terror for opposing defenses in transition, Dragic’s fearlessness attacking the paint and creativity finishing around the basket made him must see viewing for the NBA League pass crowd. The World Cup has been business as usual for Dragic, as he’s led Slovenia with 16.5 points per game on 58.8% shooting, 38.5% from three, and 4.3 assists.

If you think watching one Dragic would be fun, I’ll raise you another! Playing right alongside Goran on the Slovenia national team is younger brother Zoran Dragic. Zoran is a legitimate talent whose success in the tournament has sparked recent rumors that the Suns are interested in reuniting the brothers in the NBA. There were also rumors about interest from the Pacers in recent weeks, who could certainly use the added ball-handling with the injury to Paul George and the departure of Lance Stephenson. A couple inches taller than Goran at 6’5″, and three years younger (25), Zoran would be a nice acquisition for an NBA squad if he decides to come over to the States. He’s certainly shown his skills in the World Cup, averaging 13.2 points on 53.6% shooting and 45.8% from three. It was actually he, not Goran, who led the late surge for Slovenia against the Dominican team in the Round of 16, with a huge block, and a key steal and finish in the closing minutes.

It’s not all brotherly love for Slovenia as they have some solid depth behind the Dragics. Jure Balazic has been a sniper from the perimter, making 2.0 threes per game on 48% shooting behind the arc. Manning the middle is seven-footer Alen Omic, who’s averaged 11.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game, and could help neutralize the huge advantage the Americans have experienced on the offensive glass all tournament long, if he can stay out of foul trouble. Like with any non-Spain opponent, the United States will be heavy favorites here. However, Slovenia should give them their stiffest challenge yet.

Plus, if you’re not quite sure where Slovenia is, don’t worry, you’re not alone. 

Classic U.S. moment: European journalist to DeMarcus Cousins: “Do you know where Slovenia is?” Cousins: “No, do you know where Alabama is?”

— Brian Mahoney (@briancmahoney) September 8, 2014

You’ve won the battle of wits DeMarcus; now go out and win the battle of the boards.