At the start of the season, Coach Hadžerić's goal was to stabilize the team and secure a place in the playoffs, but as the season progresses, the pict
At the start of the season, Coach Hadžerić’s goal was to stabilize the team and secure a place in the playoffs, but as the season progresses, the picture is changing.
“As the season advances, our ambitions grow. The initial goal was to be stable in this tier, but now we want more. The team is growing and developing from game to game,” said Hadžerić.
He emphasizes that although the team consists of young players, they have known each other for a long time, having gone through several age categories together, from cadets all the way to seniors.
Novi Pazar 1969 remains undefeated after the first six games, and Hadžerić believes the key to success lies in excellent physical readiness and the composure the team shows in the second half.
“None of the victories were easy. Every game was a battle, but as a team, we showed great resilience and calmness in the final moments. Our readiness is at a high level because we started preparations back in August, while many of our rivals only gathered at the beginning of September,” explained Hadžerić.
Coach Hadžerić highlights that Novi Pazar’s strength lies in teamwork and an exceptional roster.
“In our team, we have a group of outstanding individuals, but everyone prioritizes the team result and collective success. Throughout the games so far, different players have stepped up to decide matches, and that is an advantage we have. A big thing for me as a coach is that I have nine to ten players who consistently contribute on the court. This deep roster allows us to adapt to any opponent,” said Hadžerić.
The match against Jagodina, a team initially labeled as one of the main favorites for promotion, will be crucial for Novi Pazar’s ambitions. Although Jagodina recently suffered a defeat against Priboj, Hadžerić does not consider them an easy opponent.
“We followed the result of that game. The Priboj team played well for all 40 minutes. They had the lead throughout and sealed it with a win. Jagodina is a favorite for promotion and a strong team, both in terms of players and budget, but we are preparing as we do for every game—to secure a victory. Given our current form, anything less than a win would be disappointing,” stated Hadžerić.
Coach Hadžerić emphasizes that the club’s fans are the true driving force behind the team, announcing the upcoming match as a real basketball celebration.
“We are known as the most-watched indoor team in Novi Pazar for the third consecutive year. In the fourth tier of competition, matches against Smederevo and Sloga from Batočina drew over a thousand spectators, and the same goes for the derby against city rivals Stari Ras. I expect another packed arena and am confident the fans will be our extra motivation,” said Hadžerić.
The latest news about the arrival of football star Adem Ljajić to their ranks has put the Novi Pazar team in the spotlight of sports media across the Balkans and beyond. Ljajić, although recognized as a top footballer, surprised everyone with his announcement that he would try his hand at basketball.
“Our team has gained global recognition in the past ten days. When we announced that Adem Ljajić is our new member, our social media exploded—we had over a million visits. Media from Turkey, Italy, and the Balkans talked about us. Adem is our sports legend, a true professional. His desire is to help our club, and we will do everything to make his wish to play on the basketball court a reality,” said Hadžerić.
Hadžerić added that Adem possesses exceptional basketball knowledge, will join the team when his football commitments allow, and hopes the Novi Pazar audience will be thrilled by his debut.
Ljajić could make his debut as early as next week when Novi Pazar hosts the Zlatar team from Nova Varoš, with his official presentation expected during the week.
The Novi Pazar team will face the Jagodina team at home, currently second in the standings with a 5/1 record, in a match scheduled for Saturday, November 16, at 4 PM in the Doguš Sports Academy hall.
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