The initial matchup, held in mid-December last year, demonstrated Buducnost Voli’s ability to compete against Partizan. They subsequently triumphed over Red Star Belgrade in the heart of Belgrade, making the Podgorica team one of the few in the AdmiralBet ABA League, alongside Dubai, to have bested both Euroleague teams this season.

This achievement holds significant weight in today’s regional basketball landscape, especially when considering the disparities in team rosters and budgets. However, the Buducnost players must set aside past accomplishments as they prepare for another 40 minutes of rivalry with Partizan (tonight at 7 PM in the “M:tel Morača Hall”), a game of greater importance than their earlier 97:90 victory in the Arena.

Both Buducnost and Partizan entered this clash with 27 wins and three losses in the 23rd round. It’s evident that tonight’s victor will make substantial progress towards securing first place ahead of the playoffs, though this may not guarantee much, as the “black and whites” face a more challenging schedule than the selected team led by Andrej Žakelj.

Following this encounter, Buducnost will compete against Krk and Dubai away, as well as FMP at home, while Partizan faces Red Star and Mega at home, along with Cedevita Olimpija in Ljubljana.

ŽAKELJ: PLAY WITH COURAGE AND CONFIDENCE

For approximately forty days, Buducnost has maintained a rhythm of one game per week, while Partizan only gained that “luxury” this week after concluding their regular season games in the Euroleague.

– This will be a critical and challenging match for both squads. We’ve had ample preparation time, and I believe Partizan will be ready as well. Despite some roster challenges, we must remain focused and motivated, – stated Žakelj.

Partizan may pose a greater threat now, as their focus is solely on the ABA League.

– Partizan performed admirably against Real Madrid recently; they aim to carry that momentum forward, and we must counter their strengths while exploiting their weaknesses. We eagerly anticipate the game, as the arena will be packed, and we need to leverage that atmosphere to play with determination and confidence, – emphasized Žakelj.

Residents of Podgorica recognize that such opportunities to conclude the regular season of the ABA League ahead of two objectively superior and costlier teams are rare.

– This matchup will differ from the first one for us and for our opponents. Six months have passed, and both teams have evolved and improved. The stakes are high, and our motivation will be unwavering; however, we must prioritize focus, particularly on defense, to neutralize Partizan’s individual plays and counterattacks. I expect a vibrant atmosphere, and the fans will undoubtedly provide us with additional motivation. We aim to harness the crowd’s energy effectively to secure victory, – said Buducnost winger Djordje Jovanovic, a former Partizan player.

OBRADOVIC: A SIGNIFICANT MATCH, BUT NOT DEFINITIVE

Last season, Partizan triumphed at “Morača” (89:83) during the league’s final stretch, and legendary coach Zeljko Obradovic remarked that this game is crucial but doesn’t dictate the race for first place before the playoffs.

– This match is undeniably important for both teams. The winning team will enhance their chances of clinching first place, although there are still three more games ahead, and many variables can shift, – noted the distinguished coach.

He reflected on the previous encounter between these two teams.

– Buducnost put forth an exceptional performance then, and they have showcased quality throughout the season. We must be at our best to compete and win. As we head to Podgorica, we carry the highest ambitions against a respected opponent, – added Obradovic.

“Morača” WILL BE PACKED

Budućnost Voli announced just under 24 hours before the 27th round derby against Partizan that all tickets have been sold out.

“The match will be played before a full house. All tickets for the derby are gone!” stated Budućnost.

“The gates of SC ‘Morača’ will open at 5:30 PM. We encourage all fans to arrive early due to thorough security checks at the entrances. It’s time for the roar of Morača,” conveyed the message from the Podgorica club.

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