Cibona set up Championship final against Zadar after dramatic win over Split

Cibona and Zadar will face off for the Croatian basketball championship title after Cibona secured their place in the final with a dramatic 78–76 home victory over Split in the deciding game of their semifinal series on Thursday night.

Cibona coach Ivan Rudež praised his players and staff after the win, calling the club’s return to the final a major achievement.

“Congratulations to everyone — the players, the club, and my coaching staff. This is another great moment for our club this season. We’ve reached the finals again after a few years, and Cibona is back,” Rudež said.

He described the semifinal series as highly competitive, highlighting Split’s attacking quality.

“This series was very uncertain. We played against a really serious team and the best offensive team in the league. Defending against them was not easy, but we managed to reach the finals and we’re ready,” he added.

Split coach Miodrag Rajković expressed disappointment with the result but congratulated Cibona on advancing.

“I congratulate Cibona on their well-deserved place in the final. They played a great game, and I also congratulate my players. It would not have been undeserved if we had won, and I wish Cibona all the best in the final,” Rajković said.

The championship finals get underway on Sunday in Zadar.