In the 19th round of the AdmiralBet ABA League, SC Derby faced a defeat against Partizan in Belgrade with a score of 95:80.

SC Derby initially led by 11 points in the first quarter (22:11), but Partizan managed to gain the upper hand by halftime, maintaining control throughout the game.

“Partizan deserved this victory. We started the game strongly with good ball movement. However, when Partizan altered their defense and ramped up the pressure on our playmaker Nil, we struggled offensively. We missed plenty of transition opportunities, giving Partizan a chance to dominate,” stated SC Derby coach Petar Mijović post-match.

SC Derby was also hindered by player issues.

“With the unfortunate circumstances we faced—Grbović getting sick and Drobnjak sustaining an injury shortly after entering the game—we did have some promising moments in the second half. Yet, it wasn’t sufficient to pose a greater threat to a fatigued Partizan. I believe Partizan showed us respect, as evident from the minutes given to their key players compared to other matches against lower-ranked teams. This serves as an excellent learning experience for our young squad. I think we gained valuable insights from this game,” Mijović remarked.

Following this match, SC Derby’s record stands at 6-13.

“SC Derby underwent changes in team structure and selection ahead of this season. We are significantly younger, with players who represent the future of Montenegrin basketball, and we have fewer foreign players compared to previous years. I think we are weaker as a team than before, but within this group are players with considerable potential,” Mijović elaborated.

The SC Derby coach also discussed team objectives.

“Our competitive aim is to stay in the league. As for our additional ambitions, we are focused on developing a number of players. Some have consistently performed well, and those are the two most crucial aspects for us this season. We have lost many games by narrow margins. With a bit more luck, we could have secured more wins. Our goal is to maintain diligent work because this group is dedicated and trains hard. Through enhancing our training and the games we play weekly, I believe we will achieve our objectives,” Mijović concluded.

Partizan’s coach, Željko Obradović, acknowledged that the team turned the match around.

“Our start was rough; the first quarter lacked rhythm. Once our key players came in, the game changed completely. In the second half, we played just enough to secure the win. We faced a good team that was well-coached. I wish SC Derby all the best for the remainder of the season,” Obradović commented.

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