Matea Burić, Ema Kikić, and Vita Turina from KK Arx Crikvenica made a strong impression in the Croatian U14 national team jersey, which finished fifth at the international tournament in Slovenia with four wins in five games.
At the international Slovenia Ball tournament, the Croatian colors were defended by three young players from the Basketball Club Arx Crikvenica: Matea Burić, Ema Kikić, and Vita Turina. The Croatian U14 national team finished fifth among eight teams, and the Crikvenica trio was among the most notable individuals in the national squad.
The selected players achieved four victories in five matches. They defeated Romania twice and also celebrated against Bulgaria and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Their only loss came against Hungary, in a match that decided advancement to the semifinals. Alongside the Croatian national team, the tournament featured teams from Slovenia, Poland, Slovakia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Hungary, and Romania.
The most impressive performance came from Matea Burić, who finished the competition as the leading scorer and assist provider for the Croatian national team. Over five games, she recorded a total of 67 points, averaging 13.4 points per game, while spending an average of 23 minutes on the court. She also drew 27 fouls, more than any other Croatian player.
Ema Kikić also delivered excellent performances, spending just over 20 minutes on average per game. Her statistical output included 31 points, 27 rebounds, and 14 steals, confirming her significant role in both defensive and offensive actions for the Croatian team.
Vita Turina also made her debut appearances in the national team jersey, averaging just over nine minutes of play per game and recording three points and six rebounds.
From the Basketball Club Arx Crikvenica, they express pride in the progress of their players and are confident that the national team experience will serve as additional wind in their sails for further work and improvement. They also emphasize that Matea, Ema, and Vita are examples to all young athletes in the club, proving that dedicated effort, persistence, and hard work can lead to great sporting achievements.
The club thanked the Croatian Basketball Federation for the program that provides young national team players with quality preparations, international matches, and invaluable experience. Special praise was also directed to the parents and club members who cheered for the Croatian national team from the stands in Slovenia.
