Zadar and SC Derby Face Off with Big Play-Out Stakes on the Line

2025/26 AdmiralBet ABA League Play-out Round 5, Monday, 23 March 2026:

ZADAR - SC DERBY

Where? Jazine Sports Hall, Zadar

When? 20:00

Story of the Game: Zadar will host SC Derby on Monday in Round 5 of the Play-Out phase, with both sides entering the game highly motivated as the race for survival and Play-In spots intensifies.

Zadar are right in the mix for a Play-In ticket, currently holding a 7-12 record. Although their three-game winning streak was snapped in the previous round with a road defeat against Krka, the Dalmatian side remain firmly focused on finishing inside the top two positions. Back on their home court, Zadar will be eager to bounce back immediately and continue their push toward the Play-In zone.

On the other side, SC Derby are locked in a battle to avoid finishing at the bottom of the standings. The Students took a major step forward last week by defeating Perspektiva Ilirija, improving their overall record to 5-15. That victory moved them one win ahead of last-placed Split, but the margin remains slim, meaning every upcoming game carries huge importance. SC Derby will now look to build on that momentum and further distance themselves from the danger zone.

Match-up in focus: Lovro Mazalin vs. Aleksa Ilić.

A key duel in this encounter will take place at the power forward position, where Lovro Mazalin and Aleksa Ilić are set to go head-to-head.

Mazalin has been one of Zadar’s most consistent performers throughout the season, reaching double digits in scoring in every single game so far, providing stability and offensive reliability for his team.

On the other side, Ilić stands out as one of SC Derby’s cornerstone players. He currently ranks among the top performers in the entire competition in terms of average index rating, posting an impressive 23 per game, underlining his all-around impact.

Head-to-Head Score in ABA: In total 3:5; In Zadar 3:1.