Cedevita Olimpija Stuns Dubai with a Nail-Biting Victory in ABA League
Cedevita Olimpija pulled off a thrilling 85:84 victory over Dubai in an intense 17th-round matchup of the ABA League. This win marks another feather in the cap for Zvjezdan Mitrović’s team, who have now secured their 15th victory in the last 17 games across all competitions. The only blemishes on their record during this stretch are losses to Partizan and Turk Telekom.
A Missed Opportunity for Dubai
Dubai’s loss comes as a disappointment, especially after their remarkable victory over Crvena zvezda in Belgrade. This marks their fifth defeat in the ABA League this season, a setback that benefits Partizan, Crvena zvezda, and Budućnost. These teams now have some breathing room, as Dubai finds itself in a likely battle with Cedevita Olimpija for the fourth spot in the standings.
A Game of High Stakes and Drama
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, particularly in the final minutes. Cedevita Olimpija seemed to have the game in hand with a nine-point lead just two and a half minutes before the end. However, Dubai mounted a fierce comeback, with Davis Bertans scoring a crucial basket to tie the game at 84:84.
But the drama didn’t end there. Danilo Tasić clinched the game for the visitors with a clutch free throw, while Dubai’s Nate Mason missed a potential game-winning shot in the last five seconds. The victory ultimately went to the determined team from Ljubljana.
Key Performers of the Night
Cedevita Olimpija’s triumph was spearheaded by Brynton Lemar, who scored an impressive 23 points. Devin Robinson added 16 points to the tally, while Jaka Blažič and Dwayne Stewart contributed 14 points each.
For Dubai, Jerry Boutsiele and Davis Bertans were standout performers, each scoring 18 points. Avudu Abass also made a significant contribution with 15 points, but their efforts weren’t enough to secure a win.
Implications for the ABA League Standings
This result shakes up the race for the top spots in the ABA League. While Dubai remains a formidable opponent, their position is now more precarious, with Cedevita Olimpija closing in on them. For teams like Partizan, Crvena zvezda, and Budućnost, this development eases the pressure and strengthens their foothold in the league.
Cedevita Olimpija’s Resurgence Under Mitrović
The victory underscores the remarkable transformation of Cedevita Olimpija under the guidance of coach Zvjezdan Mitrović. The team has been on an incredible run, showcasing consistency and resilience in high-pressure situations. Their ability to perform against tough opponents like Dubai further cements their status as a serious contender in the ABA League.
Looking Ahead
As the ABA League progresses, the battle for playoff positions is heating up. Dubai will need to regroup and focus on securing victories in their upcoming games to stay in contention for a top-four finish. Meanwhile, Cedevita Olimpija will aim to build on this momentum and solidify their place among the league’s elite teams.
This thrilling encounter serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and competitive nature of the ABA League, where every game can have significant implications for the standings. Fans can look forward to more high-stakes matchups as the season unfolds.
