Against Split for a win, which could bring second place

Both teams have 50 points, but Cibona is currently second since it has played one more game (21–8). Split is third with one game fewer, and in their last outing they outplayed Zabok away, improving to 22–6. In addition, they are fighting hard to stay in the ABA League, as they sit at the bottom of the standings and have only two games left in the play-out zone (Mega away and Spartak at home).

The last matchup between these two teams was played in the semifinals of the Krešimir Ćosić Cup and Split won 94–73 on February 20. This will be their fourth matchup overall, and in the league this season the record is 1–1. Split won the first game 88–85 on October 26 last year, while Cibona took the second clash 89–82 on January 14 this year. Looking at the head-to-head record, Cibona has the edge over Split.

“We are facing an away game against a team that is among the top in the league in offensive efficiency. Split has penetration, outside shooting, and an inside game that is well covered. All of this suggests we will need a strong defensive performance and good ball movement to secure a win”, said Cibona’s head coach Ivan Rudež in the derby preview.

“We’re facing a tough away game in Split. They are a very offensively potent team with a lot of experienced players, and with a win we would get very close to second place in the standings. We played on Tuesday, and they played a day later. That can’t be an excuse for us, so we need to come out strong and focused, and then we can compete with anyone,” said Cibona player Vigo Bart.

The game will be played tomorrow at Gripe hall at 7 P.M., with live coverage on Sportska televizija.