What a game! Budućnost VOLI prevail over Zadar in a thrilling ending!
We had the first basketball thriller in the new season...
(Photo: Budućnost VOLI)
2017/18 ABA League Regular Season, Round 1, Saturday, 30.9.2017:
BUDUĆNOST VOLI - Zadar 87:85 (22:19, 22:19, 17:14, 26:33)
Game recap: When you see a game like this then you are certain about one thing - The ABA League is back! Budućnost VOLI prevailed over Zadar in a thrilling ending. The home team have been in front throughout the whole match, but in the last minute they almost suffered a shocking defeat. Still, Nemanja Grodić scored the crucial points, while Kyle Gibson played amazing defense in the final moments of the game and Budućnost VOLI grabbed this valuable win.
Key moments: When Zadar forward Ive Ivanov scored a three-pointer on 37 seconds before the end, the home fans were in shock. Simply because the visitors have taken the lead for the first time this evening - 85:84, with so little time left to be played in the match. Budućnost VOLI head coach Aleksandar Džikić called for a time-out, the ball ended up in the hands of home side point guard Nemanja Gordić, while he scored a two-pointer... And got fouled along the way! Gordić made the free throw and Budućnost VOLI were once again in front - 87:85.
Then Zadar head coach Aramis Naglić called a time-out, as his team had more than 20 seconds to organize the last play. The idea was simple - Preston Knowles should take the ball and try to score the game-winner. The American point guard did take the ball, he tried to score, but Budućnost VOLI player Kyle Gibson played a stunning defense. Eventually Knowles made some very difficult shot attempt and the ball did not even reach the rim.
Man of the match: Budućnost VOLI youngster Aleksa Ilić had a great game. He made 10 points, had 8 rebounds and 3 blocks. His overall index rating was 17.
Can't trick the stats: One shot and one defense. That is what made difference this evening.
