After the heartbreak defeat in the Croatian Cup’s semifinal from BC Zadar coach Petrovic squad demonstrated unprecedented willingness and determination to bounce back. While proving they can still play the game at the high level they have achieved the club’s biggest European success ever by advancing into the Eurocup’s Final Eight teams.
Last week it was ACB powerhouse Gran Canaria. Today it was Serbian powerhouse Hemofarm Vrsac. In a tight game with many lead changes Cedevita managed to grab the lead midway through the third quarter and to control the result until the closing seconds, although the important victory almost slipped away due to numerous missed free-throws.
Although Cedevita’s leading scorer F Damjan Rudez only managed to tie his season average against Hemofarm at 7.0 points per game, F/C Corsley Edwards was up to the task with 17 huge points and 7 rebounds. PG Dontaye Draper had relatively quiet night with 15 points and 7 assists, but again impressed with his cross-over dribble moves.
Cedevita won the rebounding battle by 43:39, had 8 assists more (18:10) and effectively shot down Hemofarm long distance options which shot only 7-24 for three. Here is Cedevita’s head coach Aco Petrovic postgame statement:
“We could not win this game by playing like we played during this whole season, as was demonstrated during the first half, when we had big problems. Edwards turned the thumb of his right hand on the second offensive possession and he got two finger jams. We were too nervous during first half and wanted to solve everything on offense. I have to comment the night of Marino Bazdaric, who gave us a great contribution both on defense and rebounds(8).”
