MATCH OF THE ROUND: Crvena zvezda Meridianbet and Budućnost VOLI Set for Another Classic Rivalry Duel
Another epic chapter of one of the greatest regional rivalries is about to be written this Saturday evening in Belgrade, as Crvena zvezda Meridianbet host Budućnost VOLI in this week’s Match of the Round.
Sasa Obradovic (Photo: ABA League j.t.d./Dragana Stjepanovic)
2025/26 AdmiralBet ABA League Group B Round 6, Saturday, 8 November 2025:
CRVENA ZVEZDA MERIDIANBET - BUDUĆNOST VOLI
Where? Aleksandar Nikolić Sports Hall, Belgrade
When? 20:00
Story of the Game: Another epic chapter of one of the greatest regional rivalries is about to be written this Saturday evening in Belgrade, as Crvena zvezda Meridianbet host Budućnost VOLI in this week’s Match of the Round. These two powerhouses have already faced each other 64 times in league history, with Zvezda holding a narrow overall lead - 35:29.
Crvena zvezda Meridianbet didn’t start the ABA campaign the way they hoped, suffering two defeats in their opening four games, including the recent one against Spartak Office Shoes. However, that doesn’t tell the full story. The Belgrade side has looked impressive in recent weeks, stringing together seven straight EuroLeague victories and two ABA League wins before that loss.
Budućnost VOLI’s story is quite similar. After a disappointing home defeat to Spartak Office Shoes in the opening round, the Podgorica side bounced back in style with five consecutive ABA League wins. They have found their rhythm offensively, while their defense has looked far more consistent as the season progressed.
Both sides boosted their momentum by a strong European showing over the last week – Crvena zvezda Meridianbet scored a dominant win over Panathinaikos in EuroLeague, while Budućnost VOLI celebrated a BKT EuroCup win over Besiktas.
The memory of their semifinal clash from the previous season is still fresh in the minds of both sides. In that intense 2024/25 AdmiralBet ABA League Semi-Finals series, Budućnost VOLI defeated Crvena zvezda Meridianbet by winning the series 2-1, securing their Finals spot after a breathtaking finish in Game 3.
Match-up in Focus: Chima Moneke vs. Juwan Morgan.
This battle under the rims could define the game’s outcome.
Chima Moneke has been one of Zvezda’s standout performers this season, embodying energy, hustle, and efficiency - a true impact signing for the red-and-whites. On the other side, Juwan Morgan has been steadily raising his form for Budućnost VOLI, delivering strong performances in both the ABA League and EuroCup.
Head-to-Head Score in ABA: In total 35:29; In Belgrade 27:6.
