TFT Skopje: delegate reportedly barred American players; club to seek legal action

TFT Skopje, the runners-up from last season's ABA League Second Division, opened their regional campaign on October 20, 2026 with a crushing 106:61 loss at Sloboda Tuzla — and were able to field only six players.

Coach accuses delegate of administrative error

Coach Boro Smilkovski expressed sharp criticism of the competition's organisation after the game, saying the club had completed player registrations on time but the match delegate received a list that omitted TFT's American players.

Smilkovski, who has led the team for nine seasons, said the episode was surprising given the club's long participation in the ABA system. He told reporters that the club's instructions were to avoid taking the floor, but that they ultimately played because of the host, the crowd and the players' wish to compete.

The coach added that TFT is preparing legal steps in response to the disputed decision and that the team felt disrespected after travelling to Tuzla. He also stressed the practical relief that no one was hurt during the mismatch and said the club can show proof that it received no notification that any player was ineligible to play.

TFT now plans to follow up formally with competition authorities while the club evaluates next measures after the unexpected setback in their opening match.

Photo: press material from the event