In the 14th round of the regional competition, Studentski centar hosted the Croatian representative in the ABA League, Split, on the court of the ‘Moraca’ arena. The guests celebrated after an incredible finish with Toni Perkovic scoring at the buzzer for a 92-91 win.
It’s worth mentioning that ahead of this game, Lovro Gnjidic left the Split team and signed with Mega, while Vito Kucic arrived in Split from Cedevita Junior.
In the third period, Studentski centar dominated offensively, with Borna Kapusta standing out the most, and Tomislav Ivisic significantly contributing to the score. Shannon Shorter tried to keep his team on par, but he couldn’t manage it, resulting in a substantial 76-60 lead for Studentski centar going into the final quarter.
Although it seemed crystal clear in the opening minutes of the decisive period when Studentski centar increased their lead to a then-largest 19 points, Split fully awakened and capitalized on the opponent’s lapse to reduce the deficit to 79-71. The visiting team continued to erode the lead, bringing it to 83-79 with three minutes to go. Impressive performances by Sullivan, including a dunk by Lovre Runjic, led to an equalizing run of 23-4.
Emir Hadzibegovic broke his team’s agony with a three-pointer, and Runjic brought a new tie. Although Studentski centar took a three-point lead from the free-throw line, impressive Runjic hit another three-pointer to level the score. With four seconds left, Derek Funderburk had two free throws. He made the first for Split’s first lead since the early 7-4, missed the second, giving Studentski centar a chance to win with a deficit of 90-89.
One second before the end, Dawkins was fouled, earning two free throws. He calmly made both, putting Studentski centar in the lead once again. They needed to defend the last rival’s attack, which ultimately did not happen. Toni Perkovic became Split’s hero, sinking a tough shot at the buzzer for a 92-91 win.
Dejan Jakara’s team now has a record of 7-7, while Slaven Rimac’s men have six wins and eight losses in the current part of the season.