When regional rivals Serbia and Slovenia clash for the European basketball title on Sunday, any outcome will spell victory for the Balkans where passion and natural talent for the game are considered second to none in Europe.
Both countries emerged from the former Yugoslavia's bloody break-up and, having enjoyed contrasting basketball fortunes so far, they will lock horns for continental supremacy and local bragging rights.
Up to 5,000 fans from each country are expected to make the trip to Istanbul while thousands more will pack bars at home for what should be gripping a final.
Both teams have knocked out wealthier and more resourceful rivals en route to the showdown, with Slovenia mauling outgoing champions Spain 92-72 in a one-sided semi-final.
Serbia, the World and Olympic silver medalists who also finished runners-up at the 2009 Eurobasket, beat Russia 87-79 on Friday to reach the final with a second-string team missing seven regular starters.
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Both countries emerged from the former Yugoslavia's bloody break-up and, having enjoyed contrasting basketball fortunes so far, they will lock horns for continental supremacy and local bragging rights.
Up to 5,000 fans from each country are expected to make the trip to Istanbul while thousands more will pack bars at home for what should be gripping a final.
Both teams have knocked out wealthier and more resourceful rivals en route to the showdown, with Slovenia mauling outgoing champions Spain 92-72 in a one-sided semi-final.
Serbia, the World and Olympic silver medalists who also finished runners-up at the 2009 Eurobasket, beat Russia 87-79 on Friday to reach the final with a second-string team missing seven regular starters.
To read full article click here
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