Zadar Ties Up the Season Series Against Perspektiva Ilirija

AdmiralBet ABA League Round 11, Friday, 19 December 2025:

ZADAR - Perspektiva Ilirija 74:69 (22:11, 20:21, 15:17, 17:20)

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POST-GAME COMMENTS

Game recap: Zadar secured a valuable home win in Round 11 of the AdmiralBet ABA League Group B, overcoming Perspektiva Ilirija 74:69. The hosts set the tone early with strong defensive pressure and efficient inside scoring, building a comfortable cushion in the first half. However, Ilirija refused to fade, gradually cutting into the deficit and forcing Zadar to stay composed deep into the fourth quarter. Despite several tense moments late on, Zadar managed to protect their lead and close out an important victory.

Key moments: The opening quarter proved crucial, as Zadar quickly established control with an early run that pushed them into a double-digit lead. That momentum carried into the start of the second period, when a 9:0 stretch extended the advantage to its largest margin of the night. Ilirija responded before halftime and continued to apply pressure after the break, narrowing the gap to just a few possessions. In the final minutes, with the visitors threatening to complete the comeback, Zadar produced timely baskets and defensive stops to hold their ground and seal the win.

Man of the Match: Lovro Mazalin delivered a complete performance at both ends of the floor and was the driving force behind Zadar’s success. The forward recorded a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while also contributing three assists and two steals. His presence inside, combined with his activity on the glass, proved vital during the moments when Ilirija was closing in.

Can’t Trick the Stats: Three-point shooting ultimately made the difference. Zadar connected on 10 of their 31 attempts from beyond the arc, while Perspektiva Ilirija struggled, hitting just 5 of 26. That disparity translated into a clear scoring edge from long range, allowing Zadar to absorb periods of offensive inconsistency and maintain a narrow but decisive advantage until the final buzzer.