Carlik Jones scored 26 points, including seven of Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade’s 10 points in overtime, as his team defeated Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade 85-82 in a dramatic EuroLeague derby on Thursday.
Partizan ended a three-game losing streak with the victory at a sold-out Belgrade Arena, overcoming a second-half comeback to improve to 4-3. Crvena Zvezda, which entered the game on a four-game winning streak, dropped to the same 4-3 record after missing its opportunity to complete the turnaround.
The hosts dominated the opening half, using their inside scoring and aggressive play to establish control. Partizan opened with a 13-3 run and led 31-21 after the first quarter, shooting 11-of-13 on two-point attempts during the period. Kevarrius Hayes provided an immediate impact off the bench, scoring nine first-quarter points.
Partizan extended its advantage to 17 points at 38-21 early in the second quarter. Jones orchestrated the offense while Ethan Thompson helped the hosts maintain their pressure. Jones had 15 points and four assists by halftime, as Partizan carried a 52-38 lead into the break.
Crvena Zvezda gradually found its footing after halftime, tightening its defense and cutting into the deficit. The visitors held Partizan to 13 points in the third quarter, but the hosts still led 65-50 heading into the final period.
The fourth quarter brought a dramatic shift. Crvena Zvezda opened with a 13-3 run, with Jordan Nwora’s three-pointer cutting the gap to 69-64. Chris Jones continued to keep the visitors within reach, while Jared Butler scored consecutive baskets to tie the game at 75-75.
Crvena Zvezda had a chance to win in regulation, but Hayes blocked the decisive attempt to force overtime. The visitors then took their first lead of the game in the extra period through Chris Jones, setting up a tense finish.
Carlik Jones responded with two baskets inside before hitting a crucial three-pointer. Alessandro Pajola added another three to help Partizan close out the 85-82 victory.
Jones finished with 26 points, five assists and four rebounds. Hayes added 16 points, eight rebounds and three blocks, while Lamar Stevens contributed 13 points and six rebounds. Pajola scored seven points, including the late three-pointer.
Crvena Zvezda’s Chris Jones led all scorers with 22 points and added four assists. Nwora recorded 16 points and eight rebounds, while Semi Ojeleye finished with 13 points and three rebounds.
Partizan visits ASVEL next Wednesday, while Crvena Zvezda hosts Maccabi Tel Aviv on Tuesday.
