Codi Miller-McIntyre Injury Casts Shadow Over Zvezda’s ABA League Playoff Win

Star point guard leaves quarterfinal game with ankle sprain as Crvena Zvezda defeats Igokea

Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade may have taken the first step toward their ABA League title ambitions with a solid 87–77 victory over Igokea in the quarterfinal opener—but the celebrations were dampened by a worrying sight late in the game.

With just minutes left in the fourth quarter, Codi Miller-McIntyre, one of Zvezda’s most influential players this season, limped off the court after rolling his ankle during a drive to the basket. Although he initially tried to power through and exited on his own, it quickly became evident that the injury was more serious than first assumed.

A Performance to Remember, a Finish to Forget

Codi Miller–McIntyre

Up until that moment, Miller–McIntyre had delivered the kind of all-around performance that has made him indispensable to coach Giannis Sferopoulos. The American point guard posted 13 points, six rebounds, and six assists, once again proving his value as a two-way threat and floor general.

His sharp decision-making and ability to control the tempo kept Zvezda comfortably ahead for much of the game. But as he attempted a layup with just a few minutes remaining, his foot came down awkwardly, causing him to immediately reach for his ankle.

Though he managed to limp to the bench under his own power, the concern escalated at the final buzzer. Miller–McIntyre was unable to walk without assistance and had to be helped to the locker room by his teammates. The atmosphere, which moments earlier had been buzzing with energy from a confident playoff win, shifted to one of unease.

Sferopoulos: “We’ll Know More on Monday”

After the game, head coach Giannis Sferopoulos addressed the injury in his post-game press conference. While attempting to stay optimistic, the Greek coach admitted that the team is in the dark until Miller-McIntyre undergoes further medical evaluation.

“We don’t know how serious the injury is,” Sferopoulos said. “Now he’s hot and we’ll examine him and see. We’ll know more about his condition on Monday because the doctors will examine him Sunday. For now, we know he sprained his ankle.”

There was no speculation about how long the 29-year-old guard might be sidelined, but Sferopoulos was visibly concerned. With the next game in the series scheduled for May 15, any absence—short or long—could shift the balance in the series and potentially impact Zvezda’s championship hopes.

Another Injury Concern: Davidovac Still Sidelined

The injury to Miller-McIntyre isn’t the only medical worry hanging over Zvezda. Dejan Davidovac, a key contributor and defensive stalwart, remains sidelined with back problems.

Sferopoulos was asked about Davidovac’s recovery and didn’t mince words:

“He has problems with his back and I think he needs more time to recover. We don’t know if he’ll be ready for the end of the season. We’re looking at the situation week by week.”

Davidovac’s presence has been missed on both ends of the court, and his continued absence adds further strain on Zvezda’s rotation, especially now with Miller-McIntyre’s status uncertain.

Yago Steps Up in the Clutch

One silver lining from Saturday’s win was the performance of Yago dos Santos, who came in to replace Miller-McIntyre in the final minutes and helped steady the ship as Igokea pushed for a late comeback.

Known for his explosiveness and fearless drives, Yago brought a new energy to Zvezda’s attack when it was needed most. He may be called upon to take on an even bigger role in the next game depending on how quickly Miller-McIntyre recovers.

While he doesn’t bring the same all-around package as the American guard, Yago’s confidence and tempo control could become a vital asset if Zvezda is forced to retool its backcourt approach.

Zvezda’s Road Ahead

The victory over Igokea gives Crvena Zvezda a 1–0 lead in the best-of-three series, and puts them in a strong position to advance to the semifinals. But the win may have come at a heavy cost.

With injuries to two key players and little time to rest, the coaching staff now faces a delicate balancing act—preparing the team for battle while possibly reshuffling rotations and game plans.

For Zvezda, a team with both domestic and continental ambitions, depth will be tested. The likes of Nemanja Nedović, Luka Mitrović, and Milos Teodosic may have to shoulder more responsibility in the coming weeks, particularly if Miller-McIntyre’s ankle sprain turns out to be more than just a minor knock.

What’s at Stake

This ABA League postseason is more than just a regional battle for bragging rights. A championship title would secure Zvezda a EuroLeague wildcard for next season, and retaining their dominance in the Adriatic region remains a matter of both pride and long-term planning.

Miller-McIntyre has been instrumental in that mission this year. His leadership, defensive intensity, and ability to make plays in crunch time have made him one of the standout players in the league. Losing him for any stretch would undoubtedly alter the team’s trajectory.

Final Whistle Thoughts

Sport has a cruel way of reminding teams just how fragile momentum can be. Crvena Zvezda got what they wanted on the scoreboard—but might have paid a high price for it.

The hope now is that Miller-McIntyre ankle sprain is minor, and that he’ll be ready to lace up again for the May 15 clash. Until then, fans will be holding their breath and looking for updates, while Sferopoulos and his staff prepare for all scenarios.

Injuries are part of the game, but their timing can be everything. For Zvezda, this one couldn’t have come at a worse moment.