Basketball team SC Derbi from Podgorica will face Krka tonight at 19:00 local time, hoping to end a troubling streak of six consecutive losses. Following their recent defeats against Dubai at home and Cluj on the road, the team is well aware of the stakes involved in this match.
Petar Mijović, the head coach of SC Derbi, emphasized the importance of this game, stating, “We respect Krka. The first meeting was favorable for us, but since then, both teams have altered their rosters and gameplay structures. We cannot afford to make mistakes, and we are approaching this match with that mindset.”
In their last encounter, SC Derbi secured a victory against Krka at the end of October 2023, winning by a score of 85-75. Tonight’s match in Novi Mesto holds additional significance, as a win, even by a narrow margin, could be crucial for the playoff stage. Both SC Derbi and Krka are expected to compete in this phase, which means every point counts as they carry over scores from the regular season.
Darius Johnson, the team’s point guard, acknowledged the challenge Krka presents. “I believe Krka is a very good team with many talented players. We need to pay special attention to their shooters and be solid in rebounding. We know this is a vital game that we must win. We need to fight for all 40 minutes, especially on defense. I expect a physically demanding and tough match that could be decided by just one or two plays,” he said.
Krka is also struggling, currently on a three-game losing streak and sharing a record of two wins and nine losses with SC Derbi. The team’s head coach, Dejan Jakara, a former coach of SC Derbi, expressed his determination for the upcoming match. “We are looking to start the year with a win at home in Novi Mesto. Despite the challenges we face, I believe in my players. With the right desire, energy, and fighting spirit, we can achieve victory,” Jakara noted.
Historically, SC Derbi has an advantage over Krka in the ABA league, leading the series with five wins to two losses. However, Krka has proven to be a formidable opponent at home, winning two of their encounters there. The last time the teams met in Novi Mesto on February 6, 2024, SC Derbi won decisively, with a score of 97-72.
As both teams prepare for this critical matchup, the outcome could significantly impact their standings and playoff aspirations. Fans can expect an intense battle filled with energy and determination from both sides.
