Avtodor defeated Pari Nizhny Novgorod at home – 91:72 (21:20, 28:14, 25:22, 17:16).
Game progress
The beginning of the game was equal. Nizhny Novgorod responded to a quick 11 points from Dusan Beslac and Caleb Agada with 5 long-range shots, allowing the hosts to have only a minimal advantage by the end of first quarter (21:20). Pari Nizhny Novgorod began to make more mistakes and Avtodor took advantage of it. Several three-pointers helped the Saratov team to make a 13:1 run, giving Milenko Bogicevic team a 15-point lead at the halftime – 49:34.
Key moment
The guests had several chances to cut double-digit score difference, but a 9:0 run by Agada brought the lead to 20 points. Sergey Kozin team didn’t give up and continued to push Avtodor defense. But due to foul trouble, Nizhny Novgorod regularly missed fast break layups and couldn’t organize a comeback. The hosts confidently maintained a comfortable lead and got the win.
X-factor
An important reason for the Saratov team win was aggressive defense. The hosts allowed the opponents to make only 12 two-point shots per game, and also caused 21 turnovers.
Facts
The Saratov team returned to a neutral balance of wins and losses at home this season (8:8).
Avtodor played 7th consecutive game against a team that goes above Avtodor in the standings. During this difficult stretch, the club managed to pick up 2 wins over PARMA and Pari NN.
Dusan Beslac scored League career-high 32 points.
Leaders
Avtodor: Dusan Beslac (23 + 5 rebounds), Caleb Agada (17), Bryant Crawford (15), Kerem Kanter (12 + 8 rebounds).
Pari Nizhny Novgorod: Zach Nutall (21), Alexander Khomenko (14), Artem Antipov (10).
What’s next
Avtodor: February 9 on the road against UNICS.
Pari Nizhny Novgorod: February 9 at home versus CSKA.
