Matches between SC Derbi and Budućnost Volija are typically thrilling and tense right until the end. This was evident on Saturday when Andrej Žakelj’s squad triumphed (105:99), maintaining their pursuit of Partizan for the top spot ahead of the playoffs. Meanwhile, SC Derbi ended a three-game win streak in the regional league. Petar Mijović’s side has shown solid performances recently, having ensured their survival but still trailing in the playoff race.

The impressive form of the “students” is complemented by Igor Drobnjak’s standout performance. The Montenegrin national player netted 17 points in the first half against Buducnost, concluding the match with a total of 25 points — a career high in the regional league. Earlier in the season against his old club, he also marked the game with 22 points.

“The last two seasons have seen our matches against Buducnost be exciting both to play and to watch. They’ve delivered quality basketball, and I believe the fans who attended the match found it engaging,” Drobnjak commented to “Vijesti”.

Before facing Buducnost, the “students” had claimed victories over Mornar, Split, and Igokea, showcasing a strong offense against Buducnost as well.

“It’s clear we are improving. Our recent performances have been at a much higher caliber. I think we are beginning to unveil our full potential. While we lost, I feel we can be proud of our effort against Buducnost, who are the stronger team,” stated Drobnjak.

Coach Petar Mijović has noted that the team has been playing more freely since ensuring their place in the league. SC Derbi’s playmaker concurs.

“When not considered favorites, we tend to play with more freedom and quality. This can be attributed to our youth and relative inexperience. It’s regrettable we didn’t secure more wins, especially in the earlier part of the season, as we could have been competitive in the playoff contention,” Drobnjak expressed.

Drobnjak suffered an injury during the semi-finals of the Montenegrin Cup, missing the final against Buducnost as well as the EuroBasket qualifiers against Germany and Sweden. Since his return, he has been performing admirably, recently sinking five three-pointers in six attempts against Split. This season, he averages 9.8 points and 2.3 assists in the regional league.

“I had an injury in the Cup semi-finals that kept me off the court for a month. I initially worried that recovery would be difficult. However, I’ve played at a high level in my subsequent games and feel satisfied. This season, I’ve assumed a more defined role and have received more playing time, which I think I could have utilized better. My only regret is not achieving a better placement in the ABA League, as I believe this team has potential for more,” Drobnjak added.

Post-match, Coach Mijović addressed the disappointing turnout in attendance. Indeed, when SC Derbi plays, despite having young athletes poised to support the national team in the coming years, the stands remain sparse.

“It’s uncommon for an ABA League team in Podgorica to have ten local players, each playing significant roles. I believe this club can cultivate several future national team players. However, I also empathize with fans who wish to watch a higher caliber of basketball that the overseas players in Buducnost can offer,” remarked Drobnjak.

We possess the quality for the next stage.

Drobnjak is set to play for the Montenegrin national team in the European Championship this summer. Boško Radović’s squad is in Group B and will compete in Tampere against Germany, Lithuania, Finland, Sweden, and Great Britain. Montenegro has faced all these teams, except Finland, several times recently, and were grouped with the Germans and Swedes in qualifiers for the championship.

“We often note that every summer seems similar, facing the same national teams. It feels premature to discuss our group; the season is still ongoing, and we don’t yet know which national teams will be present or who will be healthy to compete. I believe we have the capacity to challenge everyone. I’m hopeful for a chance to advance to the second stage,” Drobnjak commented.

Montenegro’s strength lies not only in skill but also in a fantastic team atmosphere, a sentiment echoed by all team members.

“A positive environment has been crucial for our basketball success in recent years. We have achieved incredible things. Along with our skills, the camaraderie plays a key role in the results we’ve achieved,” concluded Drobnjak.

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