Zadar take a crucial win over FMP and stay firmly in the play-in race

AdmiralBet ABA League Play-out Round 8, Tuesday, 14 April 2026:

ZADAR - FMP 76:65 (13:20, 28:16, 27:13, 8:16)

PHOTO GALLERY
POST-GAME COMMENTS

Game Recap: Zadar secured a valuable home win over FMP in Round 8 of the AdmiralBet ABA League Play-Out phase, prevailing 76:65. After a slow start, the hosts grew into the game and took control through the middle quarters, building a cushion that ultimately proved decisive.

FMP opened the game with greater energy and execution, claiming a 13:20 lead after the first quarter. However, Zadar responded strongly in the second period, tightening their defense and improving offensive efficiency to turn the deficit into a 41:36 halftime advantage.

The third quarter was where the home side made their biggest push, outscoring the visitors 27:13 to stretch the lead to as much as 68:49. Although FMP mounted a late comeback attempt in the final period, Zadar held on to close out the game and claim an important victory in the standings.

Key Moments: Zadar’s decisive break arrived in the third quarter. After building a 50:40 lead, they accelerated further with a combination of inside scoring and perimeter shooting, extending the margin to 65:47 and later 68:49. This stretch effectively created the gap that defined the game.

FMP threatened a comeback in the fourth quarter with a 15:0 run, cutting the deficit to 71:64 after Zadar endured a prolonged scoring drought. However, key free throws followed by a late basket restored control for the home side, sealing the outcome in the closing minute.

Man of the Match: Lovro Mazalin delivered the standout performance of the night, leading all scorers with 20 points while adding 3 rebounds and 3 assists. His contribution was particularly valuable during Zadar’s dominant third quarter, where his scoring helped maintain and extend the lead at crucial moments.

Can’t Trick the Stats: One of the clearest statistical differences in the game was ball movement. Zadar registered 17 assists compared to just 7 by FMP. This disparity highlights the home team’s ability to create high-quality scoring opportunities through teamwork and fluid offense, especially during their decisive run in the third quarter.

That superior distribution and offensive cohesion played a major role in Zadar’s ability to build and protect their lead, ultimately guiding them to victory.