The Buducnost Volija basketball team will kick off their 2025 season in Poland tomorrow (18), as they take on Trefl Sopot in the 13th round of the Eurocup.

Before heading to Poland, Budućnost has made their intentions clear – they are aiming for a win against Trefl Sopot. The “Blues” are in pursuit of a playoff spot, and securing another two points would keep them in contention, while a loss could hinder their chances of advancing to the next stage.

“We understand the significance of this match and the implications it carries for us,” stated Budućnost’s head coach, Andrej Žakelj, in a pre-match announcement. “Everything is in our hands – we must win. With the right mindset and focus, similar to how we performed against them for most of the first half in our previous encounter, we must approach this game in the same manner.”

Žakelj emphasized the importance of defensive play.

“Defense is where it all starts. Offensively, we need to be more responsible, play as a cohesive unit, and maintain discipline. Trefl has strong scorers and has made some changes since the first part of the season, making this a challenging match. They will play without pressure, and we know how those types of games can unfold. We must do everything in our power to secure a win,” Žakelj remarked.

The “Blues” are currently on a winning streak, having recorded four consecutive victories across all competitions.

“This is a match we must win. Another tough away game in the Eurocup awaits us. If we allow them to get into their rhythm, they can be a formidable team. The coaching staff will prepare us thoroughly for the game. It’s up to us to execute that plan and perform at our best; if we do, we’ll return with a victory,” said Rashid Sulaimon.

The American guard highlighted that defense would be crucial.

“Defense is going to be essential. Offensively, they are a talented squad. If we allow them to play freely, it will be tough to stop them. We need to defend with intensity and assertiveness. If we manage that, we’ll control the game, which in turn will allow us to showcase our offensive talent,” Sulaimon explained.

Trefl Sopot remains winless in the Eurocup.

“Budućnost is a physically strong team, so we need to prepare for a tough battle on both the perimeter and inside. Controlling the rebounds will be critical in this matchup. Budućnost has a strong defensive presence. I hope we can manage that and capitalize when the opportunity arises,” remarked Jakub Šenk from the Polish side.

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