Avtodor defeated Pari Nizhny Novgorod in the Volga derby – 84:69 (16:23, 20:14, 22:12, 26:20).

Game progress

Nizhny Novgorod (17-23) has struggled in recent games, losing to UNICS and Loko. Milenko Bogicevic team (16-24) also lost to the Kazan and Krasnodar teams. Both teams are fighting for a spot in the Top 6.

The first half was equal: Pari NN looked better in the opening quarter, while the guests tied the game in the second. The hosts lead was minimal by halftime – 37:36.

Key moment

Avtodor made 15-0 run in the first five minutes of the third quarter. Kerem Kanter and Caleb Agada were able to make a difference not only in offense, but also in defense. With a 16-point lead, the Saratov team took control of the game and secured important win.

X-factor

Caleb Agabda had a rare performance, nearly completing a quadruple-double: 11 points (5 of 9 field-goals made), 8 rebounds, 8 assists and an incredible 9 steals (a VTB United League all-time record).

Facts

The rivalry history score is 14-11, Avtodor leads. Today the Saratov team won for the 5th time in Nizhny Novgorod.

This season, the teams have previously exchanged only home wins: Pari NN won in Nizhny Novgorod 79:74, Avtodor twice celebrated win in Saratov – 94:83 and 91:72.

Avtodor caught up with Pari NN in the standings due to the win, and also took the higher 7th place with the advantage over Nizhny Novgorod in the season series (3-1).

Leaders

Pari NN: Evgenii Baburin (20), Nemanja Djurisic (14 + 6 rebounds)

Avtodor: Jamal Jones (14), Kerem Kanter (13 + 9 rebounds), Charles Manning (13 + 7 assists), Dusan Beslac (12 + 5 rebounds), Caleb Agada (11 + 9 steals + 8 rebounds + 8 assists).

What’s next

Pari NN: April 6 on the road versus Samara

Avtodor: April 6 at home against MBA-MAI.