Crvena zvezda Meridianbet bounce back strong to level the series vs. Budućnost VOLI

2024/25 AdmiralBet ABA League Semifinals Round 2, Thursday, 29 May 2025:

CRVENA ZVEZDA MERIDIANBET – Budućnost VOLI 100:81 (25:17, 25:23, 21:14, 29:27)

PHOTO GALLERY

POST-GAME COMMENTS

Game recap: Crvena zvezda Meridianbet delivered a commanding performance in Game 2 of the semi-finals, defeating Budućnost VOLI by 100:81 at home and tying the series at 1-1. In a complete turnaround from Game 1, where Budućnost VOLI dominated, it was the red-and-white team that set the tone this time with high intensity, discipline on both ends, and efficient offensive execution.

Crvena zvezda Meridianbet came out with purpose from the opening tip, taking control of the game early and never looking back. Their strong start translated into a double-digit lead already in the first quarter, igniting the crowd and shaking the confidence of the visiting side.

With this victory, the Belgrade side forced a winner-takes-all Game 3 that will be played in Podgorica on Sunday evening.

Key moments: The game’s momentum was firmly in Zvezda’s hands from the start, but the third quarter proved to be the decisive stretch. After leading by 10 at halftime, the hosts opened the second half with a sharp offensive burst and very strong defense, increasing their lead to 17 points by the end of the third quarter.

Man of the match: Filip Petrušev once again proved why he is one of Crvena zvezda Meridianbet’s most reliable assets this season. The 25-year-old power forward was a dominant force in the paint, finishing the game with 20 points and 5 rebounds and posting the overall index rating of 20.

Can’t trick the stats: Once again, the 3-point line proved to be the decisive battleground — but this time, the advantage belonged to Crvena zvezda Meridianbet. After struggling from long range in Game 1, Zvezda flipped the script in Belgrade by shooting a red-hot 13/27 (48%) from beyond the arc. In contrast, Budućnost VOLI couldn’t find their rhythm from distance, finishing just 5/21 (24%) from three-point territory.