Krka repeats as Slovenian champions

Krka Novo Mesto has defended the Slovenian Telemach League after taking out Union Olimpija Ljubljana 65-61 in the finals series. It was the decisive fifth game between the clubs and Krka came through a low scoring contest to clinch its fifth straight Slovenian title, continuing the clubs’ dominance over the league.

Krka Novo Mesto vs. Union Olimpija Ljubljana, 65-61
The hosts got off to a good start and raced to an 8-1 lead early in the first quarter, and by the end of the first period held a 20-13 lead. Krka continued to impress in the second frame by opening an 8 point lead at 25-17. However, Olimpija finally found its rhythm and reeled off seven consecutive points to make it a one point game (25-24). The second period resurgence from Ljubljana did not last though as Krka rallied again to lead 36-31 at halftime. The home team took further command of the game early in the second half, opening its biggest lead (44-35). Union snapped into action and reeled off 11 points to take its first lead at 44-46, but that was the last scoring action of the third quarter for the visitors as Krka reeled off five unanswered points (49-46). The defending champs extended the lead early in the fourth and despite a worrying late rally from the visitors, Krka held on for the win.

Sani Becirovic led the way for Krka with 18 points, while Jaka Klobucar paced the winners at the end with 12 of his 14 points in the last stanza.

Sasu Salin and Alex Stephenson claimed 11 points apiece for Union Olimpija.