MBA-MAI defeated Avtodor in Saratov – 76:68 (25:16, 17:15, 14:18, 20:19).
Game progress
MBA-MAI took a lead in the rivalry history with Avtodor after winning the play-in game last season – 4:3. But Milenko Bogicevic, said that it doesn’t matter anymore. The team is focused on the current season.
The Saratov team was getting used to new combinations due to leaders’ absence and had a disappointing first quarter (16:25). Andrey Zubkov limited to 3 points in the first 20 minutes, but focused on rebounding (8). He was supported by Evgeny Voronov and Makar Konovalov, who helped MBA-MAI quickly create a comfortable lead by the halftime – 42:31.
Avtodor made changes and played better third quarter, but couldn’t use the right momentum, scoring only 4 points.
Key moment
The pause before the fourth quarter helped MBA-MAI. Andrey Zubkov stepped up and Vladislav Trushkin played a key role. After gaining a double-digit lead and quickly putting the opponent on foul trouble, Vasily Karasev team took the win.
X-factor
Bryant Crawford suffered an ankle injury in the last game and is out for 2-4 weeks. Artem Klimenko and Dusan Beslac are also out of action. The absence of key players and a limited rotation prevented Avtodor from showing its full potential.
Facts
MBA-MAI started the season with 5 consecutive losses, but then defeated Astana, and now organised a winning streak.
Andrey Zubkov has his third double-double of the season (16 points, 15 rebounds).
Avtodor (15.8) and MBA-MAI (15.7) had the most turnovers among League teams before tip-off, as well as leading the season in fouls – 24.3 by the Moscow team, 23.2 fouls averaged by the Saratov team. Today the hosts got more turnovers (12-9) and fouls (26-22).
Leaders
Avtodor: Dmitri Khaldeev (15), Vitalius Pranauskis (15), Caleb Agada (11 + 5 rebounds + 10 assists).
MBA-MAI: Evgeny Voronov (20), Andrey Zubkov (16 + 15 rebounds), Makar Konovalov (11).
What’s next
Avtodor: October 19 at home versus Enisey
MBA-MAI: October 20 on the road against Pari NN
