Olympics: Nuggets Gallo & Jokic advance in qualifying play

Jokic, Serbia torch Czech Republic

Coming into Friday’s semi-final, Nikola Jokic was the tournament’s leading rebounder, with 7.0 rebounds per game and was the event’s third-leading scorer, scoring 14.5 points per game. He got right back to work during the first quarter against the Czech team, scoring nine points, snatching three rebounds and dishing an assist as his team built a 26-17 lead.

Watch Jokic hit a tough and-one through traffic beginning around 0:07 of this highlight clip.

The Czech Republic squad never cut too far into Serbia’s lead, but pulled within 65-56 in the third before Serbia  eventually pulled away in a 96-72 victory.

Jokic was once again one of Serbia’s best players, pouring in 19 points, eight rebounds and a pair of assists in just over 20 minutes of action. He did seem to get nicked up during the game, but according to Jeff Morton of Denver Stiff’s, a source says, “it’s no big deal.”

Let’s hope our Serbian big man isn’t injured and can remain healthy throughout the rest of the summer. Serbia needs their leading scorer and rebounder in order to advance to the Olympics.

In yet another Finals rematch on Saturday, Jokic and Serbia will take on the Puerto Rico team they defeated 87-81 on Monday. Jokic was named the game’s top performer on Monday, so Serbia obviously hopes the Nuggets’ difference-maker is at full-strength for Saturday’s Final.

Finally, let’s look ahead to Lauvergne and France’s semifinal against Turkey.

Next: Lauvergne and France prepare for Turkey