By Nikola Miloradovic / info@eurohoops.net
Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet won in overtime against Monaco at the Belgrade Arena, improving to 13-9 in the EuroLeague standings.
Filip Petrusev was the Serbian team’s hero, scoring a career-high 29 points. Interestingly, he scored 25 points in a road win over Monaco during the first part of the season.
“It was a real battle! It was intense! It all came down to a few great defensive plays and three-pointers by Isaiah Canaan. I didn’t know I enjoyed playing against Monaco so much, but it seems they suit me. They’re not the best defensive team, but offensively, they’re very talented. I used all my advantages. When they had their big lineup on the court, I moved out to take three-point shots, and otherwise, I scored from the paint,” Petrusev said to Meridian Sport after the match.
Of course, he was pleased to break his personal record in the EuroLeague.
“It’s silly that I scored 29 instead of 30 points,” Petrušev joked, before quickly continuing: “Just kidding, of course, but I hope it gets even better in the future—maybe even this season. It means a lot to play well in general. It was important for me to play better defense compared to the last game. I know I can attack well, but covering everything defensively is very important. I always like to help the team. My teammates told me, ‘Welcome back.’ Okay, I’ve never scored this many points, but I’m back in offensive form. The guys are happy, as always.”
Speaking about Crvena Zvezda‘s team, Petrusev emphasized the good atmosphere among the players.
“There’s such a good atmosphere in the team. We had baklava for Deki’s birthday. He treated us, and they were amazing, but we don’t have time for any big victory celebrations,” Filip Petrusev concluded.