Union Neuchâtel fell to BBC Nyon 78-68 on Saturday. The defeat comes after a loss last week on the court of BBC Monthey. The game, held at the Riveraine, was described as highly contested, with Neuchâtel leading for almost all of the first quarter and trailing by only a single point at halftime.
A Game of Runs and Frustration
Union Neuchâtel started the game with an edge, leading 14-12 during the first quarter. The teams were evenly matched during the second, with Neuchâtel trailing by just one point, 39-38, heading into the break. However, the game turned in the final period, where the team of Mitar Trivunovic collapsed. The team’s struggles were compounded by a significant issue from beyond the arc, where they shot 9.4% (3-for-32) on three-point attempts.
David Vuckovic, who returned to the game after a month of forced rest, called the loss “frustrating.” “On a eu trop de pertes de balles,” he said, translating to “We had too many turnovers.” Vuckovic’s return provided a boost, but his availability remains a question mark as he continues to manage an injury. “Au niveau du cardio, ça allait,” he noted. “C’est mental, c’est l’épaule qui m’inquiète encore un peu, j’essaie de la préserver et de ne pas me refaire mal,” meaning, “Cardio-wise, it was okay. It’s mental, the shoulder still worries me a bit, I’m trying to protect it and not get hurt again.”
Nyon’s Stars Shine in Victory
In contrast to Union Neuchâtel’s cold shooting, BBC Nyon was led by Elijah Elliott and Amadou Wade, who controlled the paint. Wade, wearing jersey number 31, was a force on the rebounds, giving Nyon an advantage. Nyon’s ability to capitalize on their opportunities, particularly from three-point shots and in the paint, proved to be the difference in the tightly contested affair.
Roster Update: A Step Towards Full Health
The game against BBC Nyon saw a positive development for Union Neuchâtel’s roster management. All players who had been injured, with the exception of Rodin Sangwa, returned to action. Mitar Trivunovic was able to register 12 players on the scoresheet for the match, providing depth. Captain Arthur Borel, while not yet at 100%, played more than 21 minutes despite a large bandage on his knee. Jonas Argenti was also with the group, though he did not leave the bench, as he had played earlier in the afternoon with the under-23s.
Next Challenge: A Reunion with an Old Mentor
Union Neuchâtel’s focus now shifts to their next matchup, scheduled for Sunday, November 15, on the court of the Pully-Lausanne Foxes. The upcoming contest holds particular significance for David Vuckovic, who will face his former coach and mentor, Chad Timberlake.
