By Eurohoops / info@eurohoops.net
Partizan Mozzart Bet survived a dramatic late comeback from Crvena zvezda Meridianbet to secure a 100-94 victory in Game 1 of the AdmiralBet ABA League semifinals on Monday night at the Belgrade Arena.
In the latest chapter of the fierce Belgrade rivalry, Partizan appeared to be cruising after building a commanding 20-point advantage in front of their home crowd. However, Crvena zvezda stormed back in the final quarter, outscoring the hosts 35-22 and turning the closing minutes into a tense battle.
Despite the visitors’ late surge, Partizan managed to resist the pressure and close out a crucial opening win in the best-of-three semifinal series.
Duane Washington led the black-and-whites with 23 points, providing key baskets throughout the night, while Carlik Jones added 15 points and Sterling Brown contributed 16 in a balanced offensive performance.
Crvena zvezda was carried by an outstanding display from Jordan Nwora, who poured in 31 points to keep his side alive during the comeback attempt. Jared Butler also impressed with 18 points, but the red-and-whites ultimately fell short after their slow start.
The semifinal matchup had been highly anticipated, with the two Belgrade powerhouses meeting earlier than usual after several previous clashes in the ABA League Finals. Partizan entered the series fresher after sweeping Bosna BH Telecom 2-0 in the quarterfinals, while Crvena zvezda came off an emotionally and physically demanding three-game series against Cedevita Olimpija.
That extra rest appeared to benefit Partizan for much of the contest, as the hosts controlled the tempo and executed efficiently for three quarters before surviving the visitors’ late charge.
With the victory, Partizan takes a 1-0 lead in the series and moves one step closer to another ABA League final appearance.