There are only three rounds left in the first stage of the Azerbaijan Basketball League (ABL), and every point is of critical importance for the teams. The direct playoff qualifiers in both groups have not been fully determined yet, and the intense competition continues.

The Importance of the Last Rounds in Group A

In Group A, Sabah leads the standings with 30 points and has already secured a direct playoff spot. Nakhchivan, with 28 points, has also qualified for the playoffs. Neftchi (25 points) is the main candidate for direct qualification to the quarterfinals. However, Absheron (24 points) and Sarhadchi (23 points) still have a chance to move into the top three if they achieve good results in the final rounds. NTD (23 points) is in the most difficult situation and can only move forward with consecutive victories.

If Neftchi drops points in the final games, Absheron or Sarhadchi could take advantage and secure a direct spot in the quarterfinals, thus avoiding the 1/8 final stage.

The Battle for the Top in Group B

In Group B, Ganja and Sheki are tied at 30 points, sharing the lead. Only one of these teams will qualify directly for the quarterfinals. The team that performs better in the last rounds will secure this advantage. Ordu (28 points) is currently third and will have to compete in the 1/8 finals.

Meanwhile, Sumgait (24 points) is trying to hold on to fourth place, as Quba (21 points) and Lankaran (20 points) are closely following. If Sumgait fails to win at least two of its last three matches, it could lose its spot and face a tougher opponent in the 1/8 finals.

Tournament Regulations: Which Teams Will Qualify for the Next Round?

According to the current rules:

• The top three teams from Group A will qualify directly for the quarterfinals.
• In Group B, only the first-place team will advance directly to the quarterfinals.
• The remaining teams will compete in the 1/8 finals, where the first team to win two games will advance to the quarterfinals.
• The quarterfinal and semifinal series will be played in a best-of-three format (first to 2 wins).
• The final will be played in a best-of-seven format (first to 4 wins) to determine the ABL champion.

For example, if Neftchi fails to qualify directly for the quarterfinals, it could face Sumgait in the 1/8 finals. The team that wins two games first will move on to the quarterfinals. If successful, they would then face Sabah in the quarterfinals, where another best-of-three series would determine the semifinalist.

Who Are the Title Contenders?

Based on the current standings, Sabah, Ganja, and Sheki are the main contenders for the championship. Nakhchivan, Neftchi, NTD, and Ordu could also pull off surprises. However, unexpected results have been seen from other teams as well. The final rounds will determine which teams gain momentum heading into the playoffs.