With just one win in 18 rounds, Mornar’s basketball team has struggled significantly in the AdmiralBet ABA League this season.

The Barani have faltered easily in several matches, but they can’t afford to wait any longer if they hope to be serious contenders for survival in the regional elite. With 12 rounds remaining, each one feels like a final for the team, particularly for Mihaila Pavićević, who has only managed to defeat Cibona this season.

The first of these “finals” occurs tonight at 18:00 when Mega visits “Topolica”. The Montenegrin team aims to break a streak of 11 losses that started on November 11 against SC Derby in “Morača”.

– My main focus is on our team, especially considering our last three games. The way we’ve played during that period doesn’t give us much hope. There were puzzling moments in the matches where we conceded without a fight, which surprises me the most – said Pavićević, adding:

– I hope this will change soon and that we understand the gravity of our situation. Previously, we might have made excuses about the difficulty of our last three rounds, but now we have no excuse left. From this point onward, aside from the match against Partizan, every game is a must-win for us – Pavićević emphasized.

Mornar hasn’t triumphed over Mega in their last five encounters, with their last victory in Belgrade back in March 2022, and they haven’t won at home since December 2021.

– We face a tough challenge against a young and talented squad. Mega has consistently played with high energy, and youth demands such a playing style. They lead the league in possessions, which indicates how we should approach the game. Still, theory and a game plan are one thing, and executing that plan is another. I expect everyone to give their utmost, claiming even half of the challenging rebounds. I need to see our players show their willingness to battle – stated Pavićević.

On the other hand, Mega has faced losses in their last four matches.

– Mornar has made significant changes to their lineup since our first clash. They are led by an experienced coach, have a well-recognized offensive style, and possess considerable individual talent. We need to be prepared for an extremely tough defensive task. With this mindset, along with high energy and focus, I am confident we can secure a victory – remarked Mega’s coach Marko Barac.

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