Zeljko Obradovic tight-lipped on Dubai entry, reveals Kevin Punter's injury / News - Basketnews.com

Zeljko Obradovic highlighted his team's resilience amid player injuries, while simultaneously evading questions about Dubai's potential entry into the EuroLeague and ABA League.

Credit: Partizan Mozzart Bet/Dragana Stjepanovic Credit Partizan Mozzart Bet/Dragana Stjepanovic

In a thrilling Belgrade derby that resembled a roller-coaster ride, Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade secured a victory against Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade, spoiling Ioannis Sfairopolous' EuroLeague debut at the helm of Red Star.

After the intense game, Partizan head coach Zeljko Obradovic highlighted the factors behind the 14-point turnaround in the fourth quarter and emphasized that some players were grappling with injuries.

"We attempted to switch up the defense and make adjustments on the offensive end that were initially planned before the game," he explained. "Our increased aggressiveness produced positive results. The beauty of tonight's game lies in the dramatic turnarounds on both sides, all within a fantastic atmosphere. Anyone who attended witnessed something extraordinary, particularly a high-quality EuroLeague match.

"In game preparation, you always have to search for solutions. Some players faced injury issues but still gave their best. Specifically, Alen Smailagic missed the last training session and received treatment this morning to be fit. Kevin Punter is dealing with leg problems, but he wanted to help the team," the coach said of a star guard who finished with 8 points, 7 turnovers, and -3 PIR in 28 minutes.

Beyond game-related matters, Obradovic was asked about the hot topic of Dubai's potential entry into the EuroLeague and the ABA League.

"Contact the director of the ABA League and the management to discuss it," Obradovic did not want to go into details. "If I have to deal with it further, God save me. This is the first time I've heard of it. I only focused on my team. Last time there was a question about a new player, I simply don't have the time. Two derbies in four days, followed by a trip to Baskonia, and then Split."

ABA League's director recently confirmed that talks have been held with representatives from Dubai and claimed that there is a desire for a Dubai club to play in the ABA League.

Game highlights

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