Uralmash beat Pari Nizhny Novgorod at home – 84:67 (19:11, 27:23, 16:15, 22:18).
Game progress
The hosts started with a 9:2 run with Garrett Nevels and Octavius Ellis actions and held the lead in the first half. Uralmash had more aggression and energy, as was evidenced by the rebounding (17 vs. 10) and free throws (14 vs. 6). Niznhny starting five scored only 11 points compared to 36 for their opponents. The hosts had the lead by the halftime – 46:34.
Nizhny Novgorod failed to change the game in the second quarter. Uralmash controlled the momentum and relied on Ellis ( 9 of 9 from the game, 5 of 5 free throws). In addition, Nizhny never managed to cut the difference, so the hosts lead only grew and eventually reached 17 – the Yekaterinburg team secured an important win. After an encouraging streak, Pari NN stumbled against the main rival.
X-factor
Uralmash with Rostislav Vergun does not lose at home. After wins over PARMA, MINSK and Astana, Nizhny got defeated. The Yekaterinburg team won only 2 home games out of 8 before Vergun appointment.
Fact
January became the least scoring month for Uralmash leader Octavius Ellis. Ellis’ point totals by month: October – 19.8, November – 15.5, December – 21.0, January – 14.8. February has started well for the bigman.
Leaders
Uralmash: Octavius Ellis (23 + 9 rebounds), Tyrell Nelson (13 + 9 rebounds), Stanley Whittaker (11 + 5 rebounds), Javonte Douglas (10 + 9 rebounds).
Pari Nizhny Novgorod: Kasey Shepherd (18 + 5 assists), Aleksandr Chadov (12).
What’s next
Uralmash (12-13): February 4 at home against MBA
Pari Nizhny Novgorod (7-19): February 9 on the road versus Astana.
