OIP Insurtech Edges Telekom Srbija in a Thrilling Playoff Overtime Battle
The quarter-finals clash of the CLN 3 2025/26 season delivered an intense basketball duel that kept fans on the edge until the final buzzer. The game ended with OIP Insurtech narrowly defeating Telekom Srbija 79-78 after overtime at OŠ "Ivo Andrić" Niš. It was a contest marked by shifting momentum, extraordinary individual performances, and a gripping finish.
OIP Insurtech started strong, storming to a 26-14 lead in the first quarter, led by an electrifying show from Milanovic Veljko. Veljko was unstoppable, scoring an incredible 60 points on 22-of-45 shooting with 18 two-pointers, 4 triples, and 12 free throws made out of 15 attempts. His massive double-double included 22 rebounds (5 offensive, 17 defensive), alongside 5 steals and a block, making him the undeniable player of the game with a performance efficiency rating of 66.
Despite falling behind early, Telekom Srbija fought back with tremendous determination. Strong scoring displays from Kikić Vojin and Kostić Dimitrije fueled a comeback. Kikić Vojin poured in 28 points on 40% shooting while dishing out 9 assists and contributing 6 rebounds, 2 steals, and a block. Meanwhile, Kostić Dimitrije added 22 points with efficient shooting, 12 rebounds, and several crucial free throws, including a pivotal three-pointer late in the game.
The middle quarters turned the tide significantly in favor of Telekom Srbija, outscoring their opponents 19-14 and 19-10 in the second and third quarters respectively. Yet, OIP Insurtech never relented, managing to keep the game within reach thanks to key baskets by Milanovic Veljko and supporting contributions like those from Rančić Uroš, who chipped in 14 points and 16 rebounds, as well as impressive shot-blocking with three rejections.
The fourth quarter was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams exchanging leads. Milanovic Veljko continued to take control, scoring several go-ahead baskets that pushed the game into overtime with a narrow 17-19 advantage in the period. In overtime, the battle intensified, with every possession critical. Milanovic Veljko sealed his masterpiece with crucial free throws and a clutch three-pointer, helping OIP Insurtech outlast Telekom Srbija 10-9.
Other notable performances came from Milošević Ognjen of Telekom Srbija who added 5 points and Lazarev Veljko with 3 points and solid defense, while Cakić Mihajlo contributed 12 points and 4 rebounds for OIP Insurtech, including some timely three-pointers.
This game perfectly exemplified playoff basketball drama — a test of skill, stamina, and nerve. With the series now tighter, both teams will be looking ahead to the next matchup with renewed intensity. The outstanding exploits of Milanovic Veljko will be remembered as a tour-de-force, inspiring his squad to a hard-fought and memorable victory.
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