Cibona celebrated against Prievidza and gained an advantage in the qualifications for the FIBA ​​Europe Cup

The basketball players of KK Cibona successfully opened the qualifiers for entry into European competitions. At Dražen Petrović Basketball Hall, they defeated the Slovak side BC Prievidza 91–83, securing a valuable +8 advantage ahead of the return leg. The Zagreb team had its ups and downs, but in crucial moments showed quality and experience, led by an in-form Justin Roberson.

The game did not start ideally for the “Cibosi” — the visitors opened aggressively, quickly taking a 4–10 lead and imposing a faster tempo. Cibona missed easy chances in that period and searched for rhythm, but responded late in the first quarter. With a 17–6 run, the “Wolves” turned the score around and went into the break with a five-point lead.

The second quarter brought better play from Prievidza. Their Americans, Davontrey Thomas and Noah Reynolds, were particularly effective, hitting almost every open shot and punishing every defensive mistake. Cibona lost its rhythm, and the visitors capitalized to retake the lead by halftime — 41–45 on the scoreboard.

The second half was a completely different story. Coach Ivan Rudež increased defensive intensity, especially on the opponent’s main shooters, while Cibona finally found its offensive flow. Roberson stepped up and led the attack, Kamaka Hepa contributed with points and rebounds, and the team scored 27 points in the third quarter alone. Cibona entered the final ten minutes with a 68–65 lead.

In the last quarter, the “Wolves” sealed the game. Roberson took control, scoring from the field, drawing free throws, and lifting his teammates. The lead grew to double digits, and although the visitors fought until the end, they could not come back. Roberson finished with 24 points, and Cibona secured a final 91–83 victory.

An eight-point advantage gives Cibona a solid cushion for the return leg in Slovakia, but it should be noted — the qualifiers are decided on aggregate score, meaning the Zagreb side must avoid losing by more than seven points.

Top scorers:

Cibona: Justin Roberson 24, Kamaka Hepa 13 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assistsPrievidza: Davontrey Thomas 22, Noah Reynolds 20

Ivan Rudež, Cibona head coach: “Congratulations to my players on the win, and to Prievidza for a true sporting battle. They kept the game uncertain until the very end. The season opener always brings some nervousness, which showed in our offense and missed easy chances. In the second quarter, Thomas and Reynolds punished us, hitting tough shots and gaining confidence. In the second half, we had to respond — we changed some defensive schemes, increased intensity, and managed to stop their main options”.

On the return leg: “A heated atmosphere awaits us in Prievidza. It’s a basketball city, and their fans bring out the best in every player. Those are ideal conditions for a real battle, and I believe we’ll show character. I’m satisfied with +8 — I would have signed for that before the game — but we know nothing is decided yet”.

Žan Mark Šiško, Cibona player: “The first game is always special, especially in front of our fans. There was nervousness and mistakes, but we knew we had to win no matter what. We did it through teamwork, unity, and strong determination. In the end, Justin carried us, and that’s what every team needs — a player who takes responsibility when it’s hardest”.

On Roberson: “From day one, he impressed us with his professionalism and effort. Not only does he score, but he also plays excellent defense, looks to involve teammates, and has great character. He will be one of our key players this season, and I’m glad he’s with us”.

The statistics are available HERE.