Partizan Survives Early Scare to Stay Perfect in the ABA League

Partizan Survives Early Scare to Stay Perfect in the ABA League
Partizan remained perfect in Group B of the ABA League on Sunday, defeating Studentski Centar 92–80 at Belgrade’s Ranko Žeravica Sports Hall. The result gave the hosts a sixth win in six games, while Studentski Centar slipped to 0–6.

The visitors made the stronger start, exploiting Partizan’s problems in attack and taking an early 15–2 lead. Studentski Centar maintained control through the opening period, which it won 25–16, and extended the advantage to 30–16 early in the second quarter. The opposition account described the game as a “slower start, then a sure finish” for Partizan.

Partizan gradually responded with improved shooting and a stronger defensive effort. A 9–0 run briefly put the home side ahead, but Studentski Centar finished the half with six unanswered points to lead 47–42. Jaire Davis led the visitors’ scoring with 17 points, while Aleksa Uskoković added 16.

The turning point came after halftime. Lamar Stevens helped spark the comeback, Robert Franks followed with key contributions, and Partizan entered the final quarter level at 64–64. The hosts then pulled away decisively, outscoring Studentski Centar 28–16 in the last 10 minutes. Franks finished with 16 points, leading four Partizan players in double figures.

Coach Joan Penarroya credited the recovery to greater intensity and defensive discipline, while acknowledging the difficulty of playing soon after a EuroLeague game. “We improved our energy, were better in different defensive situations and, most importantly, achieved an important victory,” he said. Partizan next travels to Zadar in the ABA League.