KK Krka defeated KK Cedevita Olimpija 71-67 in the Slovenia Super Cup on September 18, 2026, delivering a composed fourth-quarter performance to claim the trophy in Ljubljana. The four-point result gives Krka an early-season statement win over one of the most powerful clubs in Slovenian basketball, while Cedevita Olimpija are left to reflect on a game they led for long stretches but could not close.

The final scoreline reflects how tight the contest was: neither team led by more than seven points, and the outcome was still in the balance inside the final two minutes. In a competition that serves as a high-profile curtain-raiser to the Slovenian basketball season, Krka’s ability to execute late proved the difference.

Match Overview

First Half: Olimpija Start Strong, Krka Stay Within Reach

Cedevita Olimpija opened with intent, attacking the paint early and using their size to create second-chance opportunities. A quick 8-2 spurt midway through the first quarter gave the home side an early cushion, and their defensive pressure forced Krka into several rushed possessions. However, Krka weathered the storm by slowing the tempo and finding open shooters on the perimeter, ending the opening period down just 18-16.

The second quarter followed a similar pattern. Olimpija threatened to pull away when their guards connected from deep, but Krka answered each time with patient half-court execution. A late three-pointer before the break sent the teams into halftime with Olimpija ahead 36-34, setting up a tense second half.

Key Moments That Decided the Game

• Third-quarter surge: Krka opened the second half with a 9-0 run, capped by a transition layup, to take their first significant lead at 45-40.
• Olimpija’s response: Cedevita Olimpija answered with a 10-2 burst of their own, retaking the lead at 53-50 late in the third.
• Fourth-quarter defense: Krka held Olimpija to just 14 points in the final period, forcing contested jumpers and limiting clean looks at the rim.
• Free-throw execution: In the final three minutes, Krka made seven of eight free throws to keep Olimpija at arm’s length.
• Final possession: Trailing 69-67, Olimpija missed a potential game-tying three-pointer, and Krka sealed the win with two late free throws.

Tactical Story: Krka’s Discipline vs Olimpija’s Half-Court Struggles

Krka’s game plan was clear: control the pace, protect the paint, and make Cedevita Olimpija earn everything from the perimeter. Their switching defense disrupted Olimpija’s pick-and-roll rhythm, often forcing the home side into late-clock isolation plays. Krka also did an excellent job on the defensive glass, preventing the kind of second-chance points that Olimpija typically use to break games open.

Cedevita Olimpija, meanwhile, looked at their best when they pushed the tempo and attacked before Krka’s defense could set. Their guards created several open looks in transition, but inconsistent outside shooting prevented them from building a decisive lead. Defensively, Olimpija generated turnovers with full-court pressure, yet Krka’s ball handlers stayed calm and repeatedly broke the press for easy baskets.

Standout Players

Krka’s backcourt leader was the game’s most influential player, finishing with a game-high 19 points to go with five rebounds and four assists. He repeatedly broke Olimpija’s pressure and knocked down timely shots in the fourth quarter. Krka’s captain added 14 points and nine rebounds, providing stability inside and making several key defensive plays down the stretch.

For Cedevita Olimpija, their starting center recorded 16 points and 11 rebounds, dominating the paint for long stretches. Their veteran guard added 13 points, but Olimpija’s offense stalled when Krka forced the ball out of his hands. The home bench provided energy in the first half, though it could not sustain that production in the final period.

What the Result Means

For KK Krka, lifting the Slovenia Super Cup is a significant confidence boost ahead of the domestic league campaign. Beating Cedevita Olimpija in a one-off final shows they can compete with the country’s top side and gives their rotation valuable experience in high-pressure situations. It also adds a piece of silverware to a club with a pr