#ABAFutureStars: U19 Crvena zvezda Heads to the Final Following a Thrilling Win Against U19 Zadar

2025/26 U19 ABA League Championship, Semifinals, Wednesday, April 22, 2026:

U19 CRVENA ZVEZDA - U19 Zadar 89:86 (27:25, 25:15, 18:22, 19:24)

PHOTO GALLERY

U19 Crvena zvezda advanced to the final of the U19 ABA League Championship after edging out U19 Zadar 89:86 in a closely contested semifinal game in Belgrade.

The opening quarter saw both teams perform at a high level, with U19 Crvena zvezda briefly pulling ahead before U19 Zadar responded to stay within reach. After ten minutes, the Belgrade side held a narrow 27:25 advantage.

In the second quarter, U19 Crvena zvezda managed to create more separation, capitalizing on their presence in the paint and controlling the interior. Their consistent play on both ends resulted in a 52:40 lead at halftime.

U19 Zadar regrouped after the break and gradually worked their way back into the game. Despite challenges in rebounding and outside shooting, they increased defensive pressure and improved their offensive rhythm, cutting the gap to 70:62 by the end of the third period.

The final quarter brought significant drama. U19 Zadar opened the period with a 0:6 run to reduce the deficit to just two points and continued to apply pressure throughout. In the closing minutes, they even managed to move in front at 85:86, setting up a tense finish.

However, U19 Crvena zvezda responded in the decisive moments, converting key free throws to regain the lead. U19 Zadar had an opportunity to force overtime in the final seconds, but were unable to complete the comeback, as U19 Crvena zvezda secured the 89:86 victory.

U19 Crvena zvezda were led by Egor Ryabov, who finished with 19 points and 7 rebounds, while Andrej Božić added 16 points and 6 rebounds, playing key roles in securing the win. On the other side, Luka Bičić delivered a standout performance for U19 Zadar with 36 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists, with Josipović contributing 20 points and Grbin adding 9 points and 9 rebounds.