BARAĆ: „THIRD YEAR IN A ROW IN THE PLAYOFFS, BUT I DON’T WANT US TO STOP THERE“

Mega Superbet recorded its fifth consecutive ABA League victory by defeating SC Derby 83:81 (21:18, 28:19, 13:24, 21:20) in Round 29 at Ranko Žeravica Sports Hall. Marko Barać’s team played a great second quarter, building a lead of up to 17 points and heading into halftime with a double-digit advantage. The visitors from Podgorica responded in the third period, cutting into the deficit, and the final 10 minutes began with just a one-point lead for Mega. A fierce battle unfolded in the final stretch, with SC Derby tying the game with 14 seconds left, but Mihailo Petrović hit the game-winning shot in the final moments. Mega improved to a 16–13 record and officially secured a spot in the ABA League playoffs.

Mega Superbet head coach Marko Barać shared his thoughts at the post-game press conference:

– It was a tough game for us—we played tonight with a shortened rotation. In the first half, the guys who got extended minutes really stepped up. We played the way we wanted and, from solid defense, managed to run many fast breaks and score 16 points in transition, more importantly allowing none. We knew SC Derby is a team that runs very well. In the second half, with our rotation stretched thin, the opponent managed to come back, gaining control on the boards and hitting some tough shots. It was a very different half. This is the third home game lately where we’ve managed to come out on top after a close finish. I’d like to congratulate my players for fighting to the end—this is a reward for their hard work,

said Barać.

He also reflected on the significance of securing a playoff spot:

– This result is beyond many people’s expectations. I want to congratulate my coaching staff, the medical team, and everyone who makes it possible for us to function. We’ve built continuity—this is the third straight year we’ve made the playoffs. First in the format with the top six teams advancing, then last season (if I’m not mistaken) when the league had 14 teams, and now once again we’re in the postseason. I’ll say it again: it’s a great result, but I don’t want us to stop here. I want my players to keep pushing and improving every day. I wish SC Derby all the best for the rest of the season,

concluded Marko Barać.

In the next and final round of the ABA League regular season, Mega Superbet will visit Partizan. The game is scheduled for Sunday, May 4, at 9:00 PM.

Photo: Mega Superbet