Marko Arapovic ('96) is the tallest player for Croatian in Czech Republic during the U16 Division "A" European Championship. He is 6'9'', and actually an important piece in team coached by Ante Nazor. He is averaging 9.8 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.4 assists in only 18 minutes. Croatia, the current European Championship, has won all five games. With other prospects like Mario Henzonja ('95), Paolo Marinelli ('95) or Ivan Jukic ('95) they will try to show that they have another great generation in that country. We are in Pardubice following the event on live, and yesterday we talked with Arapovic, son of former player Franjo. We saw him last summer in Slovenj Gradec (Slovenia) during the U14 BAM tournament. There he even played the PG in some moments. He was 6'7''. 

 

Now he is playing the 5 position. Has great size, even he has lost a bit of speed and coordination after this rise, but he will recover it again with work. He can play at low post and also facing the basket with penetrations. Has good shooting range, even at three points line, runs well the court and understands the game. He passes and rebounds well. Yesterday, against Latvia, made his best stats in the event: 15 points (7/8 FG) and 5 rebounds in 20 minutes. "I was really satisfied and happy when I knew I will go the the tournament. I am gaining experience also, so next year I can led my team". The prospect recognizes that he has grown. "Yes. 6 or 7 cm since last summer (between 2 and 3 inches). Point-guard? Here I cannot do that (laughs)".  

 

We talked also with coach Nazor about him. "Arapovic is very smart, and reads very well the game. There are not a lot of tall players talented like him". Eventhough he adds that "he must improve his athleticism".

 

Photo: FIBA Europe / Honza Mudra