HKK Široki TT Kabeli will host Cibona Zagreb at Pecara Sports Hall on Monday, November 9, at 7:00 PM in Round 7 of the AdmiralBet ABA League. Ahead of the clash between two traditional regional rivals, head coach Marijan Bagarić and player Josip Bilinovac shared their expectations, emphasizing the importance of a committed performance and strong support from the home crowd.
Široki enter the game with a record of three wins and two losses, while Cibona have recorded one win and four defeats in their opening five games. However, there is no room for complacency in the home team's preparations. Despite their difficult start to the season, Cibona remain a quality opponent looking to find their winning rhythm under new head coach Tomas.
Bagarić: We Have to Be the Best Version of Ourselves
Široki head coach Marijan Bagarić stressed that the teams' current records do not necessarily reflect the balance of strength on the court. He particularly highlighted the quality of Cibona's roster and the changes already visible in their style of play.
"Cibona are going through something of a crisis in terms of their ABA League results. The fact that their record is 1–4 and ours is 3–2 does not make us favorites, because the league is very competitive and evenly matched. You can already see the outlines of the playing style introduced by their new coach Tomas, who is an excellent coach and a great person. They are an excellent team, with two players at every position and a very strong frontcourt featuring Mazalin. They have quality domestic and foreign players. We have to be the best version of ourselves and, above all, perform at an excellent energy level. I wish Cibona all the best in returning to where they belong, but only after our game."
Bilinovac Faces His Former Club: Emotions Are There, but Široki Come First
The upcoming matchup carries special significance for Josip Bilinovac, who spent four seasons playing for Cibona. The experienced player has fond memories of his time in Zagreb but emphasizes that his focus is entirely on helping Široki succeed.
"I spent four seasons at Cibona and experienced many wonderful moments there. I'm glad we're playing against them. Of course, there are emotions involved, but I am a Široki player now, and as professionals, we have to put those emotions aside. They are a good opponent. They have had a difficult start, but the season is long. We have had time to rest and have prepared well. We know that Cibona always attracts the fans, so I hope for a good game and strong support from the crowd to give us that extra boost."
Pecara Ready for Another Basketball Showdown
Meetings between Široki and Cibona have a long tradition in regional basketball, and their latest encounter presents an opportunity for the home team to secure their fourth victory of the AdmiralBet ABA League season in front of their supporters.
The game is scheduled for Monday, November 9, at 7:00 PM at Pecara Sports Hall.
HKK Široki TT Kabeli invite all fans and basketball enthusiasts to fill the stands at Pecara and support the team in another important regional league matchup.
See you at Pecara! Together for Široki!