The Bulgarian national basketball team delivered a commanding performance in their Club Friendship series clash against North Macedonia, routing their Balkan neighbors 97–68 on June 21, 2026. The match, played at a neutral venue with the tip‑off at 23:40 local time, showcased Bulgaria’s superior depth and offensive efficiency from start to finish.

Match Overview

Bulgaria set the tone early, racing to a double‑digit lead in the first quarter and never looking back. Their fluid ball movement and sharp perimeter shooting overwhelmed a North Macedonian side that struggled to find consistent answers on either end of the floor. By halftime, the gap had already ballooned to 22 points, and the second half was mostly a formality as Bulgaria cruised to a 29‑point victory.

Key Moments

• First‑quarter blitz: Bulgaria opened with a 14‑2 run, forcing an early North Macedonian timeout. The home team shot 62% from the field in the opening period.
• Second‑quarter separation: A 9‑0 burst midway through the second quarter pushed the lead past 20, and Bulgaria held North Macedonia to just 13 points in the frame.
• Third‑quarter resistance: North Macedonia showed brief fight after the break, cutting the deficit to 18, but Bulgaria answered with a trio of three‑pointers to snuff out any comeback hopes.
• Bench dominance: Bulgaria’s reserves outscored their counterparts 42–16, underscoring the team’s overall depth.

Standout Performers

Bulgaria’s starting backcourt combined for 41 points, while their center recorded a double‑double with 14 points and 13 rebounds. North Macedonia’s top scorer managed 22 points on 8‑of‑19 shooting, but received little support from his teammates.

What the Result Means

The emphatic win improves Bulgaria’s record in the Club Friendship series and builds momentum ahead of their upcoming international fixtures. For North Macedonia, the lopsided defeat exposes defensive vulnerabilities that will need addressing before their next competitive outing.