Cedi Osman, Turkey sent home early in FIBA World Cup

Just two days after giving Team USA its closest call in 13 years, Turkey is now cooked as they are eliminated by the Czech Republic 91-76.

Cedi Osman bounced back after two tough games from the field scoring 24 points on 8-14 from the field to go along with three assists, three rebounds and a steal. While he kept the team close for most of the game, the Czech Republic were able to eventually pull away and defeat an emotionally broken Turkey.

Osman struggled from deep in the tournament going 1-10 in his first two games before going 3-6 against the Czech Republic. For the tournament he averaged 17 points on 45% from the field and 25% from three. Unfortunately, the positive regression from deep came too late and I’m sure his missed free throws against Team USA will stick in his mind for some time.

On a selfish note, it’s good to see Osman get through international play healthy. Marcus Smart is day-to-day with a quad injury and Jayson Tatum will miss at least the next two games with an ankle sprain. The Cavs had extraordinarily bad luck with injuries last season, so it is nice that their starting small forward will be heading into camp healthy.