AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) - As expected, Croatia has recorded a victory over Kazakhstan, 104-74, on day one of the FIBA U19 World Championships in Auckland, New Zealand, but they were made to work for the points by the determined Asian championship runner up.

Kazakhstan led 14-13 with 3:30 remaining in the first quarter before the Croatian open court game kicked into gear, sparking a 13-2 run to close the period, 26-16.

Croatia extended its lead to 20 at half time behind the play of point guard Toni Prostran, who recorded 10 points and 3 assists for the half, with support from Leon Radisevic, Tomislav Zubcic and captain Mario Delas.

While Kazakhstan would close the margin to 14 with two three pointers in the first 70 seconds of the third period, they would get no closer as Croatia put on a shooting clinic. The Croats connected on 55% of their field goals and 42% from long range.

The final margin of just 30 points reflected the fighting qualities of Kazakhstan, who were outscored by just ten in the second half. Leading scorers were Alexandr Tyutyunik (21 points) and Alexandr Zhigulin (19). Khazakhstan play Argentina at 12:30pm at ASB Arena tomorrow.

Leading scorers for Croatia were Prostran (23 points) Radocevic (17) and Delas (16). Croatia play New Zealand tomorrow at 7:30pm at the North Shore Events Centre.

FIBA