SANTA CRUZ DE LA PALMA (Spain) — Jovana Popovic etched her name into the FIBA U18 Women's EuroBasket record books with a stunning triple-double performance, recording 22 points, 14 rebounds, and 12 assists in Serbia's 75-51 victory over Montenegro.
A Historic Performance
Popovic's all-around masterclass produced an efficiency rating of 44 — the highest of the entire tournament. She controlled every facet of the game, scoring from all three levels, dominating the glass, and setting up teammates with precision passes that showcased an elite basketball IQ.
Her triple-double was only the second in the main event's recorded history. The first belonged to another Serbian — Aleksandra Crvendakic, who posted 11 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists back in 2013. Turkey's Isil Alben achieved a steals-based triple-double (11 points, 10 rebounds, 10 steals) in 2004, though official tracking of assists, steals, and blocks was only introduced in 1995.
Serbia's Quiet Strength
While the headline teams grabbed most of the attention, Serbia's performance throughout the tournament demonstrated the depth of talent within their program. The victory over Montenegro was a statement game, and Popovic was the catalyst.
For a country that has consistently produced world-class basketball talent — from Aleksandra Crvendakic to current WNBA stars — Popovic represents the next wave. Her ability to impact every aspect of the game at just 17 years old suggests a player with the potential to follow in illustrious footsteps.
Serbia will enter the 2026 tournament in Stockholm in Group D alongside Croatia, Latvia, and Poland, and with Popovic leading the charge, they'll be one of the dark horses worth keeping a close eye on.