Cedevita Zagreb wins historic Croatian A1 title

Cedevita Zagreb swept the Croatian A1 finals series 3-0 by defeating powerhouse Cibona Zagreb 87-76 at home in Game 3. The success marked the first A1 title in Cedevita’s history while it also put a halt to Cibona’s dominance, with the club vying for its 19th title since the league was formed in 1991. Cibona will of course be back next season, but for Cedevita the win marks a truly historic moment for the club and one that will always be remembered.

The champions have controlled the finals series after winning the A1 regular season with an impressive 13-1 record. In Game 3 the hosts took the lead and never looked back while taking advantage of the 28 free throw opportunities conceded by Cibona.

Cedevita Zagreb vs. Cibona Zagreb, 87-76
A high scoring first quarter got the crowd inside the Dom Sportova arena pumped early in the game as the home team poured in 28 points. Cibona stayed in touch during a high octane first period by notching 24 points, but Cedevita had taken control. The hosts doubled their advantage through a cagier second stanza and started to take hold of the game at both ends of the court. With the halftime buzzer sending the teams in at the break Cedevita held a solid 46-38 lead. Cibona’s chances of prolonging the series were running out and they were all but ended in the third period. Once again Cedevita Zagreb outpaced their rivals with 20 points compared to 17 to hold a commanding 66-55 lead with 10 minutes to play. The fourth quarter was comfortable for the victors as they drew the frame against the defending champs to dethrone them and become A1 title winners.

Goran Suton paced the championship effort with a game high 23 points, while he also added 5 rebounds. Luka Babic had a good all round game by logging 18 points, 5 boards, and 5 assists, while Nolan Smith secured 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Dario Saric had a fantastic double-double for the downed Cibona Zagreb by nailing 18 points and taking 14 off the glass. Saric was followed by Jerel Blassingame with 18 points and 6 dimes.