In mid-October of the previous year, Budućnost Voli’s basketball team delivered a resounding defeat to Zadar (91:55) during the fourth round of the AdmiralBet ABA League in Dalmatia.

As the season progressed, the “blues” showcased their dominance, with a decisive victory in Croatia during the first round of the regional competition being just one of many successes this season.

Andrej Žakelj’s squad claimed their latest convincing win on Wednesday, overpowering Juventud (107:17) in the 75th round of the Eurocup at “Morača”. This victory propelled them a step closer to the playoffs, with a pivotal match against Wolves in Vilnius scheduled for Wednesday (18). However, prior to this clash, the Podgorica team has commitments in the regional league, facing off against Zadar, which is coached by former Montenegrin player Vladimir Mihailović.

– We understand Zadar’s playing style. Under coach Danijel Jusup, they’ve been implementing an unconventional yet highly effective style of basketball for years, characterized by a lot of contact, running, and jumping. We need to excel in these areas, focusing on aggressiveness, contact, and building players – Žakelj stated.

Control over approach and rebounding will be pivotal in this match, as per the Slovenian coach.

– The primary concern is to secure rebounds and approach the game with the right mindset. We’ve managed that so far. Those are the key factors. Offensively, we need to play freely, capitalize on our strengths, and reaffirm our status as favorites – Žakelj clarified.

Vladimir Mihailović stands out as Zadar’s key player. Everything flows through the Montenegrin national team member. However, Mihailović isn’t their only threat.

– They operate without a traditional playmaker, allowing all players to facilitate the game, giving them considerable freedom. We’re aware of Vladimir Mihailović’s capabilities; he’s very effective and undoubtedly one of Zadar’s significant threats. They also have tall players, emphasizing “low post” plays with guards and height advantages. We must be prepared and approach the game without underestimating them. We need to demonstrate character and aim for victory – Žakelj emphasized.

Žakelj has numerous strategies at his disposal for this match, one of which includes Kenan Kamenjaš.

– This will be another challenging game at this relentless pace. Zadar employs unconventional basketball tactics, featuring numerous takeovers and tall players. Typically, at least four players over two meters tall are on the court at any time. For many teams, this could be problematic. We need to prepare diligently, execute our game plan, and aspire to celebrate a victory in the end – commented Budućnost’s center.

Vladimir Mihailović is making his return to “Morača” after competing against SC Derby in the first half.

– We are gearing up for a match against a highly skilled team that is currently on top of its game, as reflected in their recent results. This team features a deep rotation, is excellently staffed in all positions, and plays very aggressive basketball. We certainly expect a tough match. We need to rise to the challenge – stated the defender of Zadar and the Montenegrin national team.

Budućnost has triumphed in eight consecutive encounters against the Dalmatian side, with their last defeat occurring three years ago during an away match in Croatia. The Blues have never incurred a loss against the current Croatian champions in a regional competition at Morača.

– We are on the brink of one of the most challenging away games in the ABA League. Budućnost is a high-quality team, proficient in defense, and they score numerous easy points from that strong defense. Their attack is varied, creating complications through pick and rolls. They have additional shooters and tall players who excel in low post situations – concluded Toni Dijan, assistant coach to Danijel Jusup.

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