Turkey's U17 basketball team reaches FIBA World Cup semifinals after beating France

Turkey's U17 men's national basketball team has reached the FIBA World Cup semifinals, fueled by a passionate home crowd. The young Turks secured their spot by defeating a formidable French team 94-87 in a hard-fought quarterfinal match.

Head coach Hasan Özmeriç highlighted the crucial role of the spectators, stating, "The fans are supporting us very well. We have a very good generation." He acknowledged the pressure of playing at home but emphasized that the team overcame it, attributing the win to the "positive effect" of the crowd against a "very good team" like France.

Looking ahead, Özmeriç expressed confidence in his team's potential to reach the final. "If the crowd fills the arena like today and is with us, I believe these kids will win the match. I believe we will play in the final," he said. The coach also noted the long-term goal of developing players for the senior national team, aiming to send "2-3 players" to the A National Team. After celebrating the victory, the team's focus will shift to their semifinal match against Serbia.

Player Darius Karutasu, who scored 24 points in the game, shared the team's elation and determination. "I can't describe this happiness. Hopefully, we will reach the final and become champions," Karutasu stated. He also expressed a desire for revenge against Serbia, who eliminated Turkey in the quarterfinals of the European Championship, saying, "We will try to get revenge on Serbia. They beat us in the quarterfinals of the European Championship. Now it's our turn."

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