Zenit defeated Uralmash in the Quarterfinals Game 5 at home – 86:83 (24:15, 23:26, 22:18, 17:24).
Game progress
The opening game was equal. But at some point the hosts managed to take a lead with Kyle Kuric, Josh Carlton and Juwan Morgan assistance. In such a tight game, even a small lead looked like a significant advantage. And for a long time the St. Petersburg team managed to keep the opponent at 2 or 3 possessions.
But in the middle of the second quarter, the guests were able to catch up. After Tyrell Nelson free throws, the score was tied again – 35:35. However, Kuric three-pointer and Vince Hunter dunk allowed Zenit to get a 6-point lead by the halftime – 47:41.
At the start of the third quarter, the hosts brought the lead to 13 points – 54:41. But the Yekaterinburg team showed character again and rushed to cut the deficit. After Octavius Ellis made shots, the difference was only 5 points – 52:57. But Kuric long-range shots gave Zenit back a double-digit lead – 63:52.
Key moment
Igor Novikov became a joker. His three-pointers in the final quarter were the basis for another Uralmash comeback. After Ellis made shot, the Yekaterinburg team lead was reduced to just 2 points 2 minutes before the end – 79:81.
The game result was finally decided only in the very end. Ellis made a steal, which gave the guests a real chance to save the game. With a 3-point deficit (83:86), Uralmash got the right to the last possession, but couldn’t make a shot opportunity. Nelson missed shot led to a long battle for a rebound. Anton Glazunov had the ball, but by the time he was able to get the rebound, the regulation had already ended.
X-factor
Kyle Kuric was the best player of the game. The guard made long-range shots in decisive moments. As a result, Kuric made 6 of 10 three-pointers, 22 points and became the best scoring player for the St. Petersburg team.
Fact
Zenit more often than any other team in the VTB League has last Series games in the Playoffs. Today’s win helped the hosts to improve the record (2 wins and 4 losses in last Series games).
Zenit became the last Semifinals participant team of the 2023/24 season. In the battle for the Finals, the St. Petersburg team will face CSKA.
Leaders
Zenit: Kyle Kuric (22), Juwan Morgan (20 + 5 rebounds), Trent Frazier (13 + 8 assists), Vince Hunter (12 + 10 rebounds).
Uralmash: Octavius Ellis (26 + 5 rebounds), Javonte Douglas (21 + 5 assists), Tyrell Nelson (13).
What’s next
Zenit: May 5 at home against CSKA
Uralmash: Season is over.
