Carlik Jones Shines in Derby Triumph: "Full Credit to Every Single Teammate!"

Pulse Sports Team 23:04 - 22 October 2026

Partizan edged out Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet 85-82 in an overtime thriller in EuroLeague Round 7, with Player of the Game Carlik Jones reflecting on the monumental win.

Follow the live coverage of Partizan vs. Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet on Sportal

Carlik Jones, who posted an impressive Performance Index Rating (PIR) of 28, was filled with pride following the hard-fought win.

"It feels incredible. Beating our rivals is always an amazing feeling. I have huge respect for them—it was a brutal game, but we stayed composed. Even when they made their run, we managed to pull through and get the win." - Carlik Jones

He also revealed what Joan Peñarroya emphasized during the crucial final timeout.

"Just keep doing what we've been doing. Stick together, get stops on defense, and we'll take the win." - Carlik Jones

Jones made sure to give credit to all of his teammates for their contributions.

"Full credit goes to every single guy. Pajola, Luka, Lamar, Kevarius—everyone stepped up. They did a phenomenal job defensively and secured key rebounds off their misses. Huge praise to everyone, the coaching staff, and the fans. It's a wonderful feeling, and now I can go home with a smile on my face." - Carlik Jones

What did Peñarroya have to say after the match?

Partizan head coach Joan Peñarroya shared his thoughts in the post-game TV interview following their victory over Zvezda in the season's opening derby.

"The derby is always a special game, and I am extremely proud of my players and our supporters. It is clear that we struggled offensively in the fourth quarter. We missed open shots, and we have to improve our execution in those moments. However, the team showed tremendous heart. We struggled from the field over the final 15 minutes, but we hit the two decisive three-pointers down the stretch that ultimately won us the game." - Joan Peñarroya

Partizan Almost Let It Slip

What an extraordinary encounter that went down to the wire. The Black-and-Whites emerged victorious in a derby where they built an 18-point cushion, completely surrendered the lead in the fourth quarter, but regrouped in extra time to seal the win.

Alessandro Pajola's clutch three-pointer proved decisive, despite missed free throws earlier that could have wrapped it up. It is a heartbreaking loss for Zvezda, but a pivotal victory for Partizan that snaps their losing skid.