Being the Underdog is the Best Thing That Could Happen to Partizan

After seasons of inflated expectations, and one disastrous campaign, we've arrived at a summer devoid of Black and White euphoria. This year, their reinforcements have been acquired more modestly than in previous years, and the entire process has unfolded rather quietly. This period remains subdued; the team's progress is being monitored, but no one is boasting, no one is making predictions or promises...

And perhaps that's precisely what could be beneficial, as it has proven to be in the past, unlike the opposing scenario.

Partizan, participating in the "Pavlos Giannakopoulos" tournament in Athens, continued its strong performances. In a non-competitive match against a formidable PAOK team – arguably their strongest in this century – Joan Peñarroya's squad displayed a rather impressive offensive game. As is often the case in such fixtures, defense wasn't a priority. Therefore, a precise assessment of their work so far isn't possible at this moment, nor would it be realistic, but some patterns are beginning to emerge.

For that reason, we'll overlook the nearly 30 points that Cedi Osman effortlessly scored against the Black and White defense. We also won't overly praise the NBA-level scoring performance of 50 points in a half, or 99 in 40 minutes.

The first noticeable and excellent aspect is the team's increased speed. Quick ball movement, decisive and confident attacks on the basket from all positions, complemented by guards who can score from distance, drive to the rim, create plays, and have teammates to set up.

Among those who were there to be set up, returning player Nikola Tanasković stood out, continuing his strong performances from his recent national team appearances. He delivered ten points in the first half, despite limited opportunities in the second quarter, finishing with 16. His fighting spirit and contribution to rebounding were evident, along with timely reactions and excellent collaboration with the perimeter players.

Overall, this was a solid showing from Partizan's new additions. And although in the first 20 minutes it seemed Kyle Allman would be an exception to that description, having shown little, he ensured in the second half that he reached nine points and remained counted among his teammates.

All in all, the defeat suffered by a last-second basket (99:100) showcased a solid 40 minutes and a not-so-bad side of the Black and Whites. Without major stars, quietly, led by a coach who demands fast play and who seems to connect with these guys, they could become a gritty, hardworking, combative team that will continue to grow.

VIDEO Ethan Thompson: I'm blessed to be here