"We didn't give up, that's why we won!" Ibon Navarro highlights key: This is a victory of mental toughness /VIDEO/

Pulse Sports Team 21:53 - 13 October 2026

Crvena zvezda Meridianbet clinched a Round 5 EuroLeague victory by defeating ASVEL 84-82 in Villeurbanne. Following the game, head coach Ibon Navarro shared his thoughts at the press conference.

You could follow live coverage of the ASVEL vs. Crvena zvezda Meridianbet match on Sportal

A wild finish unfolded in France, where Zvezda snatched victory in the final second.

After two opening losses, Zvezda bounced back emphatically with three consecutive victories, moving into the playoff zone ahead of the next round.

The contest was decided at the death in France, as Chris Jones sank a buzzer-beater to secure two crucial points for the red-and-whites.

Following the game, head coach Ibon Navarro addressed the media at the post-match press conference.

I want to congratulate the team on the win. I think we played a very solid game, despite our ups and downs. We were without several key players, but we found the best version of ourselves and delivered on the court. Of course, all credit to Chris Jones and his shot, but every player who stepped onto the floor gave everything they had to get the victory. For instance, Nick Weiler-Babb played great defense, and Baldwin was solid, helping keep us in the game. This was a triumph of mental toughness, because we missed three-pointers, layups, and dunks, but we never gave up. This victory belongs to everyone because all the players gave their all. That is why we performed so well against a good opponent and came away with the win. - Ibon Navarro

Crvena zvezda Meridianbet now stand at 3-2, while ASVEL drop to a 2-3 record.