Zenit defeated UNICS in Semifinals Game 2 on the road – 78:69 (27:29, 19:6, 10:15, 22:19).
Game progress
After a disappointing loss in Game 1, the guests had extra motivation. Zenit took the lead right from the start and didn’t miss until the 9th minute. But the Kazan team quickly got back into the game. Aggressive defense, Paris Lee and Jalen Reynolds made shots allowed UNICS to take the lead at the end of the first quarter- 29:27.
In the second quarter, the fast-paced offense gave way to a tough defensive battle. The St. Petersburg team’s defense was stronger. In 10 minutes, the guests allowed UNICS to score just 6 points. The St. Petersburg was able to regain a double-digit lead and had 11-point lead by halftime – 46:35.
Key moment
After halftime, UNICS also turned on trademark defense. Tenacious play allowed the hosts to cut the deficit to 2 points at the start of the final quarter – 56:58. But at that moment, the St. Petersburg team finally found offensive rhythm. A 9-point run restored Zenit comfortable lead – 67:56. Johnny Juzang stopped a potential comeback by the Kazan team.
This game did not come down to clutch as it was in first matchup. Dejan Radonjic team held the lead and ties series 1-1.
X-Factor
This game was a hard-fought battle. In a game of this nature, rebounding is crucial. And here, the visitors proved far superior to their opponents—43-25.
Facts
UNICS got only its third home loss of the season. Zenit was the team to get 2 wins.
Zenit guard Johnny Juzang shot a perfect 8 of 8 field-goals made in this game (3-for-3 from three-point range).
Leaders
UNICS: Jalen Reynolds (24 points + 7 rebounds), Paris Lee (13 points + 5 assists), Dyshawn Pierre (11)
Zenit: Johnny Juzang (20), Andrei Martiuk (11 + 9 rebounds), Andre Roberson (11 + 9 rebounds), Luka Samanic (10)
What’s next
Game 3 on May 17 in St. Petersburg.
