In-form Zvezda Take On Cluj in Round 7 Showdown
Jordan Nwora (Photo: ABA League j.t.d./Dragana Stjepanovic)
2025/26 AdmiralBet ABA League Top 8 Round 7, Monday, 13 April 2026:
CRVENA ZVEZDA MERIDIANBET - U-BT-CLUJ-NAPOCA
Where? Aleksandar Nikolić Sports Hall, Belgrade
When? 18:00
Story of the Game: Crvena zvezda Meridianbet will host U-BT Cluj-Napoca on Monday evening in Round 7 of the Top 8 stage, aiming to extend their excellent run of form and keep their hopes of a top-two finish alive.
The red-and-whites enter this clash in a fantastic atmosphere, riding a 3-game winning streak in the AdmiralBet ABA League. On top of that, they have boosted their confidence even further with two big wins in the EuroLeague over the past week, securing at least a Play-In ticket and confirming their strong late-season momentum.
However, Zvezda’s mission in the regional competition is far from over. With two rounds left, they still have a shot at finishing 2nd on the standings. For that to happen, they need to win both remaining games and hope that Partizan Mozzart Bet slip up against Cedevita Olimpija this weekend. That scenario keeps the motivation at the highest possible level for the Belgrade side ahead of this matchup.
On the other side, U-BT Cluj-Napoca have already secured the 5th place in the Top 8 stage, regardless of the outcomes in the remaining rounds. Therefore, the Romanian side will use these final two games as preparation for the upcoming Playoffs, aiming to fine-tune their form and build rhythm before the decisive stage of the season.
Match-up in focus: The spotlight will be on the duel between Jared Butler and Daron Russell.
Butler once again showed his offensive class just a few days ago in the EuroLeague clash against ASVEL, stepping up when his team needed him the most and leading Zvezda with his elite scoring ability and composure.
On the other side, Russell has been one of the most dangerous scorers in the league this season. Averaging 16.1 points per game, he currently ranks among the top offensive threats and is capable of punishing any defensive lapse. If given enough space, he can take over the game in a matter of minutes.
Head-to-Head Score in ABA: In total 1:0; In Belgrade 0:0.
