Spartak Triumphs Over Budućnost Voli in Overtime Thriller

In a gripping overtime match on October 7, 2023, Spartak defeated Budućnost Voli 97-93 at the MTEL Dvorana Morača in Podgorica. This victory marks Spartak’s second consecutive win against Budućnost in this venue, following last season’s narrow triumph of 78-75. Despite having the chance to secure the game in regular time, Budućnost could not capitalize on their final possession, leading to the overtime period.

Budućnost started the game with promise, demonstrating strong form following a convincing victory in their EuroCup opener. In the first quarter, they built a significant lead with a score of 31-21, showcasing offensive efficiency. However, this initial success quickly faded. Spartak capitalized on Budućnost’s defensive lapses and missed free throws, shifting the dynamic of the game.

The first quarter saw Budućnost thriving offensively, with standout performances from players like Rasid Sulejmon, who scored 14 points in the first half. The home team dominated the boards early on, grabbing 14 rebounds, including nine on the offensive end, which translated into 16 second-chance points. Despite this, Budućnost’s missed free throws—15 from 30 attempts—proved costly as they struggled to maintain their momentum.

As the second quarter unfolded, Budućnost’s offense faltered. They managed only five points in the first eight and a half minutes, allowing Spartak to rally back and take a brief lead at 38-36, thanks to a basket from Tompson. Budućnost regained composure in the final moments of the half, entering the locker room with a slight edge at 45-40.

The third quarter was tightly contested, with Spartak edging out the home team 19-18. Budućnost initially held a six-point advantage but subsequently lost it as Spartak’s Igor Drobnjak scored under pressure. By the end of the quarter, Budućnost was clinging to a narrow 63-59 lead.

With just over four minutes remaining in regulation, Budućnost looked poised for victory, leading by seven points at 78-71. Yet, Spartak fought back, tying the game at 83-83 following a critical basket by Mejs. In a dramatic turn, Budućnost’s final attempts to win in regulation fell short, leading to overtime.

In the extra period, Budućnost struggled offensively, missing five free throws and failing to score for over three minutes. Spartak took advantage, establishing a commanding 90-83 lead. Although Ferel’s three-pointer brought Budućnost back within reach, Nikolić sealed the game for Spartak with a crucial three-pointer, finalizing the score at 97-93.

Rasid Sulejmon led Budućnost with 16 points, followed by Jogi Ferel with 15 and Skajlar Mejs contributing 13. For Spartak, Tompson was a standout with 18 points and 13 rebounds, while Danilo Nikolić added 16 points and six rebounds.

Budućnost will look to bounce back in their next game on October 11, 2023, when they host Cedevita Olimpija, following their midweek EuroCup clash against Trento at home. Spartak’s victory not only boosts their confidence but also sets the stage for an exciting season ahead in the ABA League.