Mavericks: Boban Marjanovic dominates paint in Serbia win vs. Dominican Republic
By Tyler Watts
The Dallas Mavericks shifted to starting Boban Marjanovic in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series against the LA Clippers. The 7’4 big man gave them a rim protector and presence in the paint. The Mavs lost the series, but Boban averaged 11.8 points and 8.0 rebounds in 20.8 minutes per game over the final four contests.
Everybody loves Bobi. The big man is one of the funniest players in the NBA and has a special friendship with Luka Doncic. Marjanovic is set to be a free agent this offseason, but the Mavericks will be interested in a reunion.
First, Boban is representing his native Serbia in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying tournament. They played their first game on Tuesday afternoon against the Dominican Republic. Serbia is the host and were massive favorites coming in. Bobi earned the start and dominated the paint. Let us take a closer look at his performance in the win.
Dallas Mavericks big man Boban Marjanovic leads way in Serbia win
Boban got off to a fast start. He had six points, three rebounds, and one steal after ten minutes. The Dominican Republic had no answer for the big man inside. See all three of his first-quarter buckets below.
The Serbians kept feeding Marjanovic inside when he was on the floor. He had ten points and six rebounds in the first half, but the Dominican Republic tied the score after 20 minutes. They were a gritty team that played hard.
Boban came out with four points and two rebounds in the third quarter, but the Dominican Republic would not go away. Serbia held just a one-point advantage heading into the fourth.
Serbia finally pulled away in the fourth quarter against a tough Dominican Republic squad to win 94-76. Boban finished with 18 points, ten rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block. Serbia was plus-14 in his just over 23 minutes on the floor. Marjanovic led the team in scoring and rebounds on June 29.
Boban Marjanovic and Serbia play their second game of the tournament on Wednesday afternoon versus the Philippines. He is one of four Dallas Mavericks featuring in four events around the world. Serbia is projected to qualify for the Olympics. Stay tuned for more on Boban at The Smoking Cuban.