BARAĆ: “TWO DIFFERENT HALVES, FMP’S REBOUNDING MADE THE DIFFERENCE”

Mega Superbet’s basketball players suffered a defeat in Round 17 of the ABA League, losing to FMP Soccerbet in Železnik 89-87 (26:20, 27:26, 17:18, 17:25) after a fourth-quarter comeback by the home team. Marko Barać’s squad played an excellent first half and even held a double-digit lead in the third period. However, the hosts managed to turn things around midway through the decisive quarter. The game entered a tense finish, with Mega having possession for a potential game-tying or game-winning shot in the final seconds, but they failed to convert, allowing FMP to secure the win. Both teams now have an 8-9 record in the regional competition, though Mega Superbet still holds the edge due to their 83-80 win in the first encounter, retaining a better head-to-head record.

Mega Superbet head coach Marko Barać shared his thoughts at the post-game press conference:

“Two different halves. In the first, we had good ball movement, created plenty of open looks, which resulted in fantastic shooting percentages and good play for us. In the second half, we couldn’t match the increased aggressiveness of the home team. We cut possessions short, resorted to individual solutions, and their physicality came to the forefront. We couldn’t sustain that rhythm, especially considering that both our guards had health issues this week, making it very difficult to maintain energy on the perimeter for all 40 minutes, which is crucial for a game like this.

In the end, FMP’s rebounding made the difference. We knew they had an advantage in height and physicality, but these numbers were simply too much to overcome: 27 points from second chances, a massive number of offensive rebounds, and a significant rebounding margin overall. That was just too much tonight. We gave it our all and managed to get back into it, even having the final possession. Without a chance to set up a play, everything happened quickly, and the ball didn’t end up where it needed to go. It ended the way it did. Congratulations to the home team on their win, and I wish them good luck moving forward,” said Barać.

In Round 18 of the ABA League, Mega Superbet will host Dubai on Monday, January 27, at 8:00 PM.

Photo: Mega Superbet