Luka Doncic put up a valiant effort with a 26-point, 11-rebound, 10-assist triple-double, but Slovenia fell short in their opening game of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament against Croatia.

Despite Doncic’s stat-stuffing performance, his shooting wоes (8-23 FG, 0-9 3PT) and a slow start (4 points, 1 assist in Q1) hampered Slovenia’s chances.

Croatia dominated from the tip, with their NBA big me𝚗 Dario Saric and Ivica Zubac exploiting a size advantage to lead a 31-16 first quarter rout. Slovenia struggled to contain them throughout the game, and Croatia cruised to a comfortable 108-92 victory.

This loss puts pressure on Slovenia to bounce back in the OQT.Doncic will need to find his shooting touch and Slovenia will need a stronger defensive showing if they want to secure a coveted Olympic berth.