The Los Angeles Clippers delivered an impressive performance, securing a victory against the NBA’s top team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, at the Intuit Dome.
While Kawhi Leonard and James Harden contributed significantly, it was Ivica Zubac and Bogdan Bogdanovic who truly impacted the game. Zubac had a standout night with 28 points and 20 rebounds, while Bogdanovic was flawless, finishing with 8-for-8 shooting and adding seven assists.
After the game, the Croatian center spoke with the media about his development on offense and his increasing role in the Clippers’ success.
“I find a lot of joy in scoring. We all start playing basketball because we want to score. However, once you reach the NBA, there’s a more profound aspect to the game. You need to define your role. My role has evolved; at first, it was different. Over the last year, the team needed me to be a scorer, and I was prepared to step up in the post,” Zubac stated.
He also highlighted the impact of Bogdanovic, the Serbian national team captain, who is beginning to find his rhythm with the Clippers after being traded from the Atlanta Hawks at the deadline.
“What he has done throughout his career goes beyond just being seen as a shooter. NBA fans often overlook how much he contributes to the offensive game. He has consistently excelled for his national team in Europe. Now, everyone is witnessing that he offers more than just shooting. He’s an exceptional pick-and-roll player, possesses high basketball IQ, and puts in tremendous effort. He’s a valuable addition to our squad.”
Zubac acknowledged the benefits of having another Balkan player on the team.
“Sharing the same language is a significant advantage, especially during games. He instills confidence in me, and I try to encourage him to be aggressive as well. We’ve developed strong chemistry in pick-and-roll situations, reading the game together, making it effortless. His arrival has genuinely made a difference for me,” Zubac concluded.
With a record of 39-30, the LA Clippers currently sit in eighth place in the Western Conference standings, just one victory away from moving up to the sixth position, which guarantees a playoff spot.