Dario Saric wasted no time in the tournament, posting 29 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for Croatia
Dario Saric has led Croatia to a 86-74 win over Poland in the opening Group D game at the Samsung U18 European Championship Men.
Returning to the team following a one-year absence, Saric was showing his all-round versatility scoring 29 points on 11-for-22 shooting from the floor, whilst also leading his team with five assists, alongside seven rebounds.
An inability to pull down defensive rebounds proved costly for Poland, with Croatia allowed to score 22 second-chance points. In comparison Poland only scored four.
Saric's main help came from another stalwart of the team, Mislav Brzoja, who ended the game with 15 points on six-for-11 shooting. Marin Maric chipped in 11, and Karlo Lebo, 10.
Mikolaj Witlinksi was the best of Poles with 18 points.
On Friday Croatia play Slovenia and Polish go seeking their first win when they tip-off against Russia.
