ABA Playoffs: Semifinals Series All Tied Up

 Nothing comes easy in the ABA League nowadays. Both Cedevita and KK Mornar Bar dug deep and came up with victories over the weekend to even up their respective semifinals series in the ABA Playoffs. The underdogs rose to the occasion, avoided elimination and forced a third, deciding game in their respective series.

Cedevita 82 – 75 Buducnost

Ah, the comforts of home. They matter. And Cedevita made the most of their home crowd and lifted both their spirits and play to take down Buducnost. Cedevita took it to their guests from the opening whistle and retained control of the action for the majority of the game. Demetris Nichols popped off a game-high 25 points, 15 of which came from behind the 3-point arc. While there was an impressive shootout between both teams, it would be Cedevita’s dominant control of the glass that allowed them to take advantage via some key second-chance points. Game 3 will be played on April 1st.

Mornar Bar 88 – 84 Crvena Zvezda

Obviously, Crvena Zvezda came into this game as the heavy favorites. Unfortunately for them, someone forgot to give the Mornar Bar players the memo. Nemanja Vranjes and Derek Needham went berserk and combined for 57 of the team’s total points. Vranjes did his damage outside with six 3-point shots, while Needham took it Red Star in the paint and shot 9-of-14 from 2-point range. Embattled at all fronts, Crvena Zvezda put up a good fight but in the end, Mornar Bar was able to pull off the stunning upset. Game 3 will be played on April 2nd.