For the eighth consecutive time, the Montenegrin women’s basketball team is set to compete in the European Championship (EC). Led by Jelena Škerović, the team secured their spot by defeating Luxembourg 86:53 in a crucial qualifying match in Bar.

Montenegro maintained the lead throughout the game, overcoming a 22-point deficit from their previous encounter in November last year in Luxembourg, thereby rightfully advancing to the continental tournament.

“Kudos to the players. We moved on from the loss to Switzerland. After our morning discussion, we regained confidence, which was crucial. We reminded ourselves that we were European Championship participants and that we ranked seventh in the last tournament. We showcased our strengths—resilience, teamwork, solid defense, and swift counterattacks. Despite a slump in the second quarter, we regrouped at halftime and focused on taking it one step at a time. The players truly bore the weight and deserve great recognition,” stated coach Jelena Škerović post-match.

Montenegro had faced a loss against Luxembourg in their first match, with a score of 71:49, but they successfully turned things around tonight.

“We had faith. Our experience and self-belief helped us make critical three-pointers, with Mack performing excellently under the basket, playing outstanding defense, which thwarted their attempts. That contributed to our win. This highlights the gap between us and Luxembourg,” explained the coach.

Another Eurobasket awaits us.

“For today, we celebrate; tomorrow we shift our focus back to club duties, then we’ll anticipate the draw to see our matchups in Eurobasket,” concluded the coach.

Marija Leković had an impressive performance, finishing with 14 points, four rebounds, and six assists.

“We were driven to win by as large a margin as possible, seeking redemption after two disappointing losses. Tonight demonstrated that we truly belong at the European Championship,” remarked Leković.

Montenegro entered the game knowing that a victory by at least 11 points was essential for qualification to Eurobasket.

“Though it seemed straightforward, it was incredibly challenging. Starting the game at a deficit was a heavy burden. Honestly, we’re ecstatic. Our goal was to win by over 22 points to show that our prior performance in Luxembourg was an anomaly—perhaps one of our worst days as a national team. This is the beauty of sports; we are given a second chance to prove ourselves, which we did today. I can’t express the happiness I feel about qualifying for the European Championship,” said Jovana Pašić after the match.

The European Championship is slated for June 18-29 in the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, and Greece.

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