BOCAUE — Serbia kicked off its title-retention bid in the men’s tournament of the 2018 Fiba 3x3 World Cup with two big wins to go on top of its group on Saturday at Philippine Arena.
Stefan Stojacic came up big for the Serbians, firing 12 points including the final six in their 21-17 victory over Netherlands in an early face-off of last year's finalists.
The Dutch were hell-bent on redemption but Stojacic had other plans.
Winners of the past two World Cups, the Serbians followed that up with a 22-13 conquest over New Zealand, this time with Dusan Bulut taking charge.
Canada, meanwhile, emerged on top of Pool C after a 21-15 win over Mongolia and a 20-17 victory against Russia.
Canada's Michael Linklater drilled the go-ahead two-pointer against Mongolia before setting up Michael Lieffers for the basket that extended the lead to three points.
The Philippine team had an even showing in their first taste of action, stunning Brazil, 15-7 in their tournament opener before suffering a 21-17 loss at the hands of Mongolia in the nightcap.
Full Day 2 results:
Netherlands def. Kyrgyzstan, 22-7.
Romania def. New Zealand, 16-12.
Kyrgyzstan def. Romania, 20-18 (OT).
Serbia def. Netherlands, 21-17.
Philippines def. Brazil, 15-7.
Serbia def. New Zealand, 22-13.
Canada def. Mongolia, 21-15.
Russia def. Brazil, 20-16.
Canada def. Russia, 20-17.
Mongolia def. Philippines, 21-17.
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