Czech Republic coach Michal Jezdik heaped praise on his players even though they suffered a heartbreaking 71-70 defeat to Slovenia in Prostejov on Wednesday night.

Although the hosts led by a point at the half-way stage, top scorer Marko Tusek's 19 points for Slovenia ultimately proved crucial as they held off a last quarter fightback from the Czechs to claim a thrilling win.

"I am very proud of my players after this game," Jezdik told www.basket.idnes.cz.

"We are a team without stars but we can play a close game against one of the favourites.

"Slovenia had a lot of problems with us today despite there being four players from the NBA in their team.

"On the other hand, I am disappointed because we had a big chance to win. I do not think that the better team won today. We missed two free throws five seconds before the end.

"We have lost two of the first three games and I hope that the results of other teams will help us in next rounds."