Astana defeated Samara on the road – 78:66 (24:13, 22:20, 16:17, 16:16).
Game progress
Astana controlled the first quarter due to defense. The guests allowed Samara to made only 2 of 13 shots and created a double-digit lead – 24:13. Carvel Anderson 9 points at the start of the second quarter allowed the Kazakh team to extend their lead to 15 points. Drazen Anzulovic immediate timeout gave the necessary momentum, but the guests won the first half – 46:33.
The hosts started the third quarter well. James Thompson and Javontae Hawkins had chances to score points via free throws due to the actions in the paint. The difference was cut to 7 points, but Astana didn’t let the hosts get any closer – 62:50.
Key moment
The start of the fourth quarter was desicive. Markell Johnson and Carvel Anderson scored 9 quick points combined. After Royce Hamm layup with 4 minutes left, Astana lead became significant – 75:56. The guests got a confident win and beat Samara for the second time this season.
X-factor
Astana perimeter defense played a key role in tonight’s game. Samara made only 2 of 21 three-pointers (9.5%), and the overall shooting percentage was 30.6. In the previous game versus Astana, Samara managed to score exactly 66 points. This is the second best defensive result in the season for the Kazakh team.
Fact
Devin Davis made his 6th double-double of the season. Bigman is 3rd in VTB League in this indicator and is behind only teammate Royce Hamm and Octavius Ellis from Uralmash.
Leaders
Samara: Javontae Hawkins (16), James Thompson (10 + 8 rebounds), Rade Zagorac (10).
Astana: Carvel Anderson (20), Royce Hamm (17 + 6 rebounds), Devin Davis (15 + 12 rebounds), Markell Johnson (11 + 8 assists + 5 rebounds).
What’s next
Samara (13-11): January 28 on the road versus Lokomotiv Kuban
Astana (10-14): January 28 on the road against Runa.
