Lokomotiv Kuban defeated CSKA in the Game of the Week at home – 69:65 (13:26, 20:9, 10:15, 26:15).
Game progress
CSKA turned on its defense and the Krasnodar team scored first points only in the 4th minute of the game. Casper Ware helped the guests to get a double-digit lead by that moment – 12:2.
The hosts managed to shake up the offense with Antonius Cleveland. But the Moscow team still held a comfortable lead for a long time. The Krasnodar team turned on trademark basketball. Aggressive defense, a quick transition from defense to offense and emotional boost were the basis for Loko comeback. Loko was able to cut the difference to 2 points by halftime – 33:35.
Key moment
The game went into clutch. In the final minute, Cleveland’s long-range shot put the hosts ahead – 64:61. Melo Trimble tried to respond, but missed both three-point attempts. B.J. Johnson increased the lead – 65:61, but Anton Astapkovich three-pointer 9 seconds before the end put the guests back – 64:65.
The game moved to the tactical fouls stage, where the Krasnodar team leaders showed confidence. Johnson and Patrick Miller realized all free throws and let the hosts to keep the winning score.
X-factor
Tense defense helped the hosts to change the game. After a disappointing first quarter, the Krasnodar team allowed opponent to score only 39 points in the next 30 minutes. By the way, 65 points are the season-worst performance for CSKA this season.
Facts
Loko was able to end 3-game losing streak in the rivalry with CSKA.
Today’s win allowed Loko to catch up with UNICS in the standings. Both teams now have 16 wins in 21 games. They are now 2 wins away from leading CSKA.
Kirill Elatontsev had his best performance in the VTB League, scoring 25 points. The center also repeated his career-high 9 rebounds.
Aleksa Avramovic hasn’t made a single steal in the last 5 games.
Leaders
Lokomotiv Kuban: Antonius Cleveland (18 + 7 rebounds), Kirill Elatontsev (14 + 9 rebounds), B.J. Johnson (11 + 8 rebounds).
CSKA: Melo Trimble (15), Amath M’Baye (10), Casper Ware (10).
What’s next
Lokomotiv Kuban: December 26 at home against Pari Nizhny Novgorod
CSKA: December 25 on the road versus Avtodor.
