Zenit defeated MBA-MAI on the road – 88:84 2OT (17:16, 15:18, 16:15, 17:16, 9:9, 14:10).

Game progress
From the very first minutes, the game was equal. Both teams played pretty good defense, which was reflected in the scoreboard. In the opening quarter, the teams scored only 33 points combined. The guests were able to gain minimal lead – 17:16.

The game didn’t change in the second quarter either. Neither team were able to gain advantage in tight game. At some point, the Moscow team took the initiative and the lead, but couldn’t increase it. As a result, the teams again scored 33 points in the quarter. But MBA-MAI had lead by halftime – 34:32.

Key moment 
The game result was decided in 2 overtimes. Both the end of regulation and the first overtime followed a similar scenario. The guests created a couple of offensive chances, and then the Moscow team heroically got back. At the same time, the St. Petersburg team had opportunities for game-winning shots, but they were missed.

The third time, the hosts couldn’t save the game. Aggressive defense kept MBA-MAI in the game throughout the game, but by the last minute of the second overtime, key MBA-MAI players fouled out. Zenit had a cold-blooded player at that moment. Dwayne Bacon had very unstable game, but still helped in the clutch scoring his free throws and helped to secure the win.

X-factor
Alexey Shved had his best game after returning to the VTB League. Zenit guard set season-high 22 points and got 7 assists.

Facts
The teams played 2 overtimes for the first time in the 2024/25 regular season.

Zenit record winning streak continues, it is 17 games in a row. It’s the fourth best in VTB League history.

After today’s loss, the Moscow team lost chances for 6th place in the regular season, and will now have to earn the Playoffs spot through play-in stage.

Leaders
MBA-MAI: Maxim Lichutin (17), Makar Konovalov (16), Andrey Zubkov (14 + 7 rebounds), Danil Pevnev (10 + 7 rebounds)
Zenit: Dwayne Bacon (23), Alexey Shved (22 + 7 assists), Alex Poythress (16 + 7 rebounds)

What’s next
MBA-MAI: April 6 away versus Avtodor
Zenit: April 6 at home against Uralmash.