Montenegro’s Young Basketball Warriors Take on Europe: First Up, Mighty Serbia!
Get ready, because Montenegro’s women’s junior basketball team isn’t here for a vacation—they’re here for war! After a grueling month of training and six tough warm-up games, our young lions have landed on Spain’s La Palma island, where tomorrow at 6 PM they face their first match at the European Championship. And it’s no ordinary match—it’s against Serbia, one of the continent’s basketball powerhouses!
A Month of Hellish Training and Six Endurance Tests
This team, made up of talents who have played together for four years, didn’t get here by accident. Last year, they won the B division of the European Championship and earned their spot among the elite. This generation has already proven they can hang with the best, and now it’s time to show it on the big stage.
Coach Petar Stojanović doesn’t sugarcoat it—the group is brutal: France, the reigning European champions, Serbia, Israel—all teams that ranked top last year. But he believes in his girls. “We have a great group, the girls have improved in their clubs, and this is a perfect chance to feel what it’s like to play against the best,” says Stojanović.
Sanja Akšam – The Biggest Blow, But The Spirit Is High
Unfortunately, due to passport issues, Sanja Akšam won’t be able to play, which is a huge setback for the team. Still, the atmosphere is great, and the other players are ready to give their all. “Every game is an opportunity to give our maximum and leave a better impression,” adds the coach.
A Tough Group, But Fighting Is All We Know
Montenegro is in Group A, battling France, Serbia, and Israel. The first challenge is Serbia, led by Jovana Popović, known for their strength and fighting spirit. “We know it’s going to be tough, but we take it game by game,” says Stojanović.
Who Are Our Heroines?
The roster includes Janja Dragišić, Jelena Bulajić, Milena Vujović, Ljube Andrić, Anđela Rakočević, Anđela Rondović, Valentina Vrcan, Marija Sekulović, Katarina Radulović, Anastasija Kasalica, Maša Praščević, and Blanka Jovović. Supporting coach Stojanović are trainers Marko Milošević and Jelena Nikpaljević, team manager Nikolina Popović, and physiotherapist Sara Zekić.
Why Does This Matter?
This generation is the future of women’s basketball in Montenegro. Their success or failure at this championship could shape the future of women’s sports in the country. Will they handle the pressure and strong opponents? We’ll find out soon.
The Bottom Line: Will Our Young Lions Shock Europe?
This isn’t just another tournament. It’s a chance for Montenegro to show it has the talent, will, and strength to fight with the best. Will our heroes pull off an upset and create a sensation? Or will mighty Serbia stop them at the first hurdle?
Either way, grab your popcorn and follow the games—things are about to get fiery! Got a favorite or think our young lions will surprise? Drop a comment below and let the fans’ voices roar!
Bonus: American Guard Justin Turner Joins SC Derbi!
While our juniors prepare for the European battle, SC Derbi isn’t sitting still. Their first signing for the next season is American guard Justin Turner, aka Juice. The Detroit-born player who went through NCAA, NBA development league, and European clubs is now ready to show what he’s got in Podgorica. If his energy and talent on the court match the juniors’ training intensity, SC Derbi has reason to be optimistic.
In short, Montenegrin basketball is on the move, and we’ll be here to follow every step. Who knows, maybe this generation and Turner will be the future that makes us proud again!
So, are you ready to cheer, critique, or just laugh? Maybe your joke or comment will be the extra wind in our girls’ sails!
Enjoy the basketball, and remember—the real drama is just beginning!
