Guteša's 40-Point Masterclass Sends TraceOne Past Better Collective, 60-56

At OŠ "Ivo Andrić" Niš on 9 November 2025, TraceOne eked out a 60–56 victory over Better Collective in a low-scoring, tightly contested CLN 3 encounter. The game was decided by a late pair of free throws, capping a performance that will be talked about long after the final buzzer.

The story of the night was Guteša Nebojša, who finished with a staggering 40 points on 14-of-28 shooting (5-of-12 from three) and 7-of-10 from the line. He added seven rebounds, four assists and three steals, compiling a game efficiency of 41. More than a scoring outburst, his long-range makes and steady trips to the foul line created the separation TraceOne needed through the second half and especially in the game’s closing moments.

Better Collective opened aggressively and held a 17–14 edge after the first quarter, but TraceOne answered with a dominant second quarter (outscoring their opponents 21–8) to build a solid cushion at the break. From there the visitors absorbed pressure as Better Collective chipped away, forcing a tense finish in the final minutes.

On the other side, Better Collective leaned on Stojiljković Marko, who led his team with 19 points and eight rebounds (efficiency 23). Veteran guard Jovanović Jovan added 11 points and five rebounds and was active at the foul line, while Naumović Vuk posted a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double that kept his side within striking distance late.

TraceOne got key contributions beyond their superstar: Stevanović Darko helped stretch the floor (including timely threes) and Dasić Dalibor provided hustle and interior work. But it was Guteša Nebojša who repeatedly answered when Better Collective threatened — hitting threes in the second and fourth quarters and, ultimately, the free throws that sealed the result with 19 seconds remaining.

Statistically the match read like a veteran’s duel: TraceOne’s offense revolved around its hot hand, while Better Collective relied on efficient free-throw shooting and interior rebounding to stay alive. Turnovers and missed opportunities from both sides kept the score close, and tactical adjustments by both coaches produced a chess match that came down to execution in the final minute.

TraceOne’s win in round 6 of the 2025/26 CLN 3 season will be remembered for one player’s near-solo takeover and for a gritty, methodical finish under pressure. For Better Collective, there were encouraging signs of fight and cohesion — small margins that could tilt future games in their favor with a cleaner offensive night.

This post was generated by AI.