Enisey defeated Uralmash at home – 88:76 (23:22, 29:10, 14:19, 22:25).
Game progress
The hosts started the game with a 7-point lead. The Yekaterinburg team was able to equalise the game with aggressive defense and bench players contribution. In the middle of the second quarter, the difference was only 5 points – 32:37.
But then Xavier Rathan-Mayes turned on. His 7 points helped the hosts to make another run. Solid defense and leaders’ performance allowed Enisey to win the second quarter ending and had a 20-point lead by the halftime – 52:32.
In the third quarter the guest was able to have a control of the game. Uralmash was better in positional basketball. After Aleksandr Zakharov and Stanley Whittaker made shots, the difference was cut to 12 points – 49:61.
Key moment
Beau Beech removed the intrigue, as the American forward scored 3 three-pointers in a row. Enisey got back a comfortable lead before the fourth quarter – 72:51. The guests was able to cut the difference, but it wasn’t enough.
X-factor
Xavier Rathan-Mayes was better in the leaders’ rivalry versus Octavius Ellis. Enisey guard scored 25 points and made a key contribution to the hosts’ run in the second quarter. Uralmash center was turned off and scored only 8 points (the season worst).
Fact
Uralmash lost the chances to make it to the Top 6 after tonight’s loss. But the Siberian team got closer to an achievement. Enisey needs only 1 win in 2 games or to wait for Samara loss.
Leaders
Enisey: Xavier Rathan-Mayes (25), Jeremiah Martin (21+ 6 rebounds + 5 assists), Beau Beech (12), Vladimir Karpenko (12), Mikel Hopkins (11 + 6 points)
Uralmash: Garrett Nevels (14), Stanley Whittaker (13), Javonte Douglas (10 + 6 rebounds)
What’s next
Enisey (14-10): February 1 on the road against Astana
Uralmash (11-13): February 1 at home versus Pari Nizhny Novgorod.
