Semifinals of the 2012 FIBA U17 Championships

Mirko Djeric caught fire at the right time as the
Aussies handed Croatia its first loss at a critical time.

Australia reached the Final of the 2012 FIBA U17 World Championship to set up a rematch against reigning champions United States with an 83-71 victory over Croatia – handing the European champions only their first defeat of the tournament.

Mirko Djeric nailed seven three-pointers in scoring 21 points, while Dante Exum poured in 18 points and Jack Purchase hit for 12 in Australia’s sixth straight victory since they lost in the first game of the Championship against the Americans.

The team from Down Under made 15 of 36 three-pointers (42 per cent) and only committed 11 turnovers.

Mario Hezonja’s 28 points and 17 from Marko Arapovic were not enough for Croatia, who will face Spain in the Bronze Medal Game. It will be a rematch of Croatia’s 73-68 victory to secure first place in Group B.

Dante Exum and Australia are headed for a
rematch against Team USA.

Defending champions United States ran away from Spain in the second half of their semifinal duel to register a 95-66 win and reach the Final of the 2012 U17 World Championships.

Justise Winslow paced the Americans with 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Conner Frankamp added 13 points. Johnathan Williams chipped in with 12 points.

Team USA played without Jabari Parker, but did not need the star forward as coach Don Showalter’s side outrebounded the Spanish, 57-30, and forced 23 turnovers.

Spain, who will play for the bronze medal, did not have a player score in double figures with Adreu Adrover and Alberto Martin leading the way with just 8 points each.