Dzień dobry. For those who could not watch, here is a quick recap of what happened in the ABA League opener, where I promise to bring you closer to the bizarre yet compelling European journey of 2025 Bucks second-round pick Bogoljub Markovic on European courts. Get on the bandwagon now, because deep down you want to feel the authentic struggle of this kid’s development.
Mega Superbet’s (aka KK Mega Basket) quest for a victorious start to the ABA League season has ended, as the young squad was destroyed by an experienced Cedevita Olimpija team from Slovenia, losing by 36 points on the road, 117-81. Despite the brutal final score, Marković delivered a highly efficient performance, cementing his role as the team’s emerging cornerstone.
Marković played a team-leading 34:46 minutes, logging a spectacular 21 EVAL—the highest for Mega and second only to Cedevita’s Umoja Gibson (27) in the entire contest. He finished as the Mega Superbet’s leader in scoring with 14 points and rebounding with seven boards (all defensive). Furthermore, Marković drew an impressive seven fouls (most in the game), showcasing his aggressive play and ability to put pressure on the opposing defense. His offensive performance was an unquestionable bright spot. Marković’s shot selection was great, posting a blistering 68.8% eFG%, built on going 4/5 from two-point range. He was also reliable at the line, sinking 8/10 free throws.
It was all Cedevita from the start, with Mega trailing by 12 after the first quarter (29-17) and never closing the gap, eventually losing every quarter outside of a 22-22 tie in the fourth. The rest of the Mega roster couldn’t keep up with the veteran-heavy offense of Cedevita, allowing the lead to balloon into a rout. Players like Savo Drezgić (16 points) and Asim Đulović (also 16) contributed offensively, but the team’s plus/minus reflects the struggle, with Marković himself carrying a team-average -25 on the night.
Marković did a solid job handling the ball for a big, finishing with a 2:2 assist/turnover ratio. He also logged one block on defense. Although the team suffered a blowout loss, Marković‘s solid efficiency and team-leading production ensure that eyes will remain glued to his development throughout the season.
Additionally, if this experiment with covering European games proves worthwhile, perhaps I will follow the Euroleague trail of our beloved former number two overall pick, Jabari Parker, in Partizan Belgrade. Be honest: do you miss him that much?