Montenegro achieved a significant victory in the FIBA World Cup qualifiers, defeating Greece 67-65 in Athens. This win marks Montenegro’s second success in three matches in Group B, reinforcing their position as a competitive team on the international basketball stage.
Coach Praises Players’ Dedication
Andrej Žakelj, the head coach of Montenegro, commended his players for their exceptional commitment leading up to the match. He emphasized the importance of belief in their capabilities against one of Europe’s top teams. “They had a top-notch approach in all the days leading up to this game,” Žakelj stated. “From the first day we practiced, I tried to convince them that they could compete against a high-level team like Greece.”
With players from the EuroLeague on the opposing side, Žakelj recognized the challenge they faced. He noted the significance of the team’s belief in their strategy, which became evident during the game. “When they saw that what they were doing made sense, it became easier,” he added. The coach highlighted the importance of rebounding, stating, “We secured the boards, which I believe was the most crucial aspect of the match.”
Despite facing numerous turnovers, Montenegro adapted well to Greece’s aggressive play. Žakelj remarked on the team’s defensive performance, which he credited for their hard-fought victory on challenging terrain against one of Europe’s stronger squads.
Key Player Contributions
Zoran Nikolić emerged as a standout player, contributing significantly with 19 points and six rebounds. Following the game, he expressed gratitude towards his teammates and coaches for their collective efforts. “Congratulations to the players, coaches, and everyone involved in this significant victory for us,” Nikolić said. “From the very first moment, we fought without surrendering. We stated beforehand that we would not wave the white flag; instead, we wanted to demonstrate our character and show that we can compete.”
Nikolić acknowledged Greece’s formidable lineup, stating, “They fielded one of the best rosters they could assemble under the current circumstances.” This only fueled Montenegro’s motivation, indicating the respect Greece had for their opponents. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, saying, “The fight, sacrifice, and being there for one another—this is the goal we should all strive for in future matches.”
Montenegro’s victory not only boosts their confidence but also positions them favorably as they continue their journey in the qualifiers. The team’s resilience and determination were on full display, suggesting promising prospects for their upcoming challenges.
