Split Aim to Bounce Back, while SC Derby Arrive with Fresh Confidence
Monday evening in Split brings a clash between two teams fighting for momentum rather than standings, as Split welcome SC Derby in Round 16 of the 2025/26 AdmiralBet ABA League.
(Photo: SC Derby/Filip Roganovic)
2025/26 AdmiralBet ABA League Group A Round 16, Monday, 26 January 2026:
SPLIT - SC DERBY
Where? Split Sports Hall, Split
When? 18:00
Story of the Game: Monday evening in Split brings a clash between two teams fighting for momentum rather than standings, as Split welcome SC Derby in Round 16 of the 2025/26 AdmiralBet ABA League.
The situation is clear for both sides. Split and SC Derby are sharing the bottom of Group A with an identical 3-11 record, and their chances of reaching the Top 8 are already gone. Still, motivation is far from missing, as every remaining win will carry valuable points into the Play-Out phase, where margins are often razor-thin.
Split enter this matchup in desperate need of a positive reaction. The Yellow side are currently riding a five-game losing streak in the league, and confidence has taken a hit after several tough defeats. Playing at home on Monday evening gives them an important opportunity to reset, stabilize their form, and finally return to the winning path before it’s too late to build momentum for what lies ahead.
SC Derby, meanwhile, arrive with a completely different emotional background. After suffering eight consecutive league defeats, the Podgorica-based team shocked the entire competition last round by delivering a convincing road win against Igokea m:tel. That breakthrough victory not only ended their losing run, but also injected fresh belief into a young and ambitious roster that now wants to prove that result was no accident.
Match-up in focus: One of the most intriguing storylines of the night will be the duel between two brothers. Dario Drežnjak has been one of Split’s brighter spots this season, producing several strong performances and often leading his team with energy and versatility.
On the opposite side stands Mateo Drežnjak, who is coming off his best game of the season. Last week, Mateo dominated in SC Derby’s win over Igokea m:tel, posting an impressive index rating of 25, and he will once again be a key factor if the visitors are to build on that momentum.
Head-to-Head Score in ABA: In total 2:7; In Split 1:3.
