CSKA defeated Zenit in the Game of the Week – 83:77 (22:14, 24:27, 21:19, 16:17).

Game progress
The game started with the Moscow team’s 2 long-range shots and a fastbreak. The guests were able to cut the deficit midway through the first quarter. But CSKA maintained the lead and gradually regained a comfortable advantage. At the start of the second quarter, CSKA lead became double-digit after Tonye Jekiri made shot.

But the guests looked a little better in game with three-pointers and dunks. Zenit gradually cut the difference and even had chances to take the lead. But Casper Ware buzzer beater gave CSKA a 5-point lead by the halftime – 46:41.

Key moment
After Vince Hunter free throw the guests took the lead for the first time in the game – 75:74. But the Moscow team took the lead in the end. The key factor here was the hosts’ defense. CSKA let the guests score only 2 points in the final 5 minutes. The hosts were also able to defend on the opponent’s decisive possession. With a three-point advantage (80:77), the Moscow team first did not let Dwayne Bacon to score and then Xavier Moon made a turnover. After that, the St. Petersburg team had to use tactical fouls, which allowed CSKA to further increase the lead.

X-factor
The Moscow team defense was decisive in this game. Zenit scored 15 points in the first 5 minuted of the final quarter to take the lead. But in the next half of the quarter, the guests scored only once, which allowed CSKA to win the game.

Facts
In 2024, it was already the 9th game between the teams. After today’s win, CSKA took a lead against Zenit – 5:4.

Nikita Kurbanov had his 400th game (first among players) and Ilya Putenko also reached 350th game (first among referees).

Leaders
CSKA: Melo Trimble (17 + 5 rebounds), Aleksa Avramovic (16), Tonye Jekiri (14).
Zenit: Dwayne Bacon (19 + 5 rebounds + 5 assists), Xavier Moon (13 + 7 assists + 6 rebounds), Alex Poythress (13 + 7 rebounds).

What’s next
CSKA: October 20 on the road against PARMA
Zenit: October 21 on the road versusUralmash.