Cibona open the play-off final in Zadar

After overcoming against Split in the deciding game of the semifinals, Cibona now turns its attention to the opening game of the playoff finals. Their opponent is Zadar, who have won the Croatian championship title in each of the last three seasons. Interestingly, Cibona has won the last league title four years ago, and it was won against Zadar.

Zadar and Cibona will meet for the fourth time this season. In their previous three encounters, Zadar emerged victorious twice, while Cibona claimed one win.

Ivan Rudež, Cibona head coach: "Zadar are three-time consecutive national champions, with continuity in both their coaching staff and playing roster. They know each other so well that they can operate on the court almost with their eyes closed, and that is their biggest advantage. Our advantage must be our desire and hunger to give everything we have and play good basketball. We know the public sees Zadar as the favorite, but we believe in ourselves. The key will be to focus on every possession, raise our defensive intensity, and compete hard on the boards".

Marjan Čakarun, Cibona player: "Zadar have shown throughout the season why they deservedly finished first in the regular season. Their greatest strength is that they have been together for several years. We enter this series with respect for Zadar, but also with a huge desire to show what we are capable of".

The game will be played tomorrow at 8:00 P.M. at Krešimir Ćosić Hall, with live coverage on MAXSport television.