Turkey face the grim reality of having to play the Czech Republic in a pressure-packed Group C finale which will decide who advances along with Germany and Lithuania to the qualifying round.
Turkey have suffered losses of 17 and 30 points and are reeling after getting torn apart by Germany.
Meanwhile, the Czechs have proved to be tough opponents in their two matches thus far – though they were out-classed by Lithuania.
But none of that matters now as it's down to one game to stay alive - for both teams.
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| How Benda plays versus Okur may decide the game's outcome | ||||
Last Time Out: Czech Republic lost 95-75 to Lithuania. Turkey were dismantled by Germany 79-49.
Key Match-up: Mehmet Okur vs. Petr Benda. The Czech center has averaged 12.5 points and 6.0 rebounds as a legitimate offensive weapon alongside Jiri Welsch and Lubos Barton. Benda has worked hard on defense as well and he could play a major role if he can frustrate Okur. Turkey's NBA big man has averaged just eight points in 24 minutes of action and seems unable to take charge on the court.
Statistics: Turkey's defense has been horrible, allowing Lithuania to shoot 52% from the floor for the game and Germany 50%. The offense hasn't been all that much better – as Bogdan Tanjevic’s side has made just 32% of its shots while also hitting a miserable 58% from the free-throw line.
X-Factor: Someone has to step up for Turkey and be a leader on the court. Hidayet Turkoglu leads the team in scoring with 16.5 points - the only player averaging double-digit scoring. Look for captain Ibrahim Kutluay to step up after a dismal zero-point showing against Germany. If Turkey want to advance, they need a leader. And it's time for the captain to step up before Turkey head home with three losses in three games.
Sounding Off: Czech Repbulic coach Zdenek Hummel thinks his team can play loose, adding: "Obviously there will be a lot more pressure on Turkey than us. For the Czech Republic, it was a success just to get here after eight years. That might be our advantage."
