Igokea m:tel suffered a loss to Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade in the ABA League, and the biggest news is that Hassan Martin is back in practice but still not ready for game action.
What happened in the game?
In the match played on July 9, 2026, Crvena Zvezda comfortably beat Igokea m:tel 85‑68. Martin was not listed in the roster, even though his first appearance after injury was expected. Coach Duško Ivanović, who leads Igokea, gave a brief post‑game comment: “Physically he’s in good shape, but two months without a game demand extra time.”
Why isn’t Martin playing yet?
Martin injured his LCL during a EuroLeague game against Zalgiris Kaunas in December 2025. In 13 EuroLeague contests this season he averaged 5.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and a 5.8 PIR. His ABA League numbers are similar: 5.3 points, 3.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists and an 8.3 PIR per game. Ivanović noted the process mirrors Nikola Ivanović’s recovery: “If he could play without practicing, nobody would practice.”
How does this affect Igokea m:tel?
Martin’s absence leaves a void in the paint and reduces the team’s pick‑and‑roll efficiency. The club has lost its last four EuroLeague games and now must bounce back in the upcoming clash with Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv in Israel. Without Martin’s contribution, Igokea relies on younger players and Ivanović’s experience to organize the offense.
What’s next for Martin and Igokea?
Ivanović emphasized that Martin will continue individual work and his return will be decided only after he shows sufficient conditioning in practice. He is expected to rejoin the lineup by late October, when the ABA League approaches the playoff stage. Until then, Igokea m:tel will have to compensate for the missing center through rotation and tighter defense.
How is the team preparing for the next challenge?
Coach Ivanović announced intense preparations for the Tel Aviv game, focusing on fast transitions and better perimeter defense. Players like Jackson Vuković and Milan Đurđević are taking on larger minutes, and their productivity is expected to rise while Martin recovers. Igokea m:tel keeps searching for ways to stay competitive in the ABA League despite injuries.