Široki Brijeg defeated FMP Železnik 78-66 in an Adriatic League match, securing an away victory built on perimeter defense and a decisive third-quarter scoring run. The newly promoted club from Herzegovina used the win to maintain momentum in the regional competition featuring top clubs from the former Yugoslavia.

Defensive Puts Široki in Control Against FMP

Head coach Marijan Bagarić deployed a perimeter defense that stifled the hosts throughout the contest. FMP managed just 66 points while shooting 13 percent from beyond the three-point arc and recording 12 assists as a team. The defensive intensity kept Široki within striking distance before the visitors took control after halftime.

Široki held a narrow 42-40 lead at the intermission. Out of the locker room, the Erzegovina side launched a 15-0 scoring run that turned the close contest into a comfortable advantage. By the end of the third quarter, the lead had stretched to 59-50, allowing the visitors to close out a 12-point margin.

Offensive Leaders Deliver on the Road

Playmaker Tayler Persons orchestrated the Široki offense, finishing with 15 points, seven assists, and five rebounds. The Indiana native established himself as a primary floor leader for the visitors. Chavaughn Lewis added 17 points to support the backcourt effort.

FMP head coach Saša Nikitović relied on Marko Kovačević, who posted 15 points and eight rebounds. Brandon Rush contributed 14 points and four assists for the home side, but the offense struggled to generate clean looks against the visiting defensive pressure.

Standings Context in the Adriatic League

The result keeps Široki moving forward after winning the Second Adriatic League last season. Both teams entered the early rounds sharing top position in the standings table, adding weight to the fixture before upcoming matches across the regional schedule.