CSKA defeated Lokomotiv Kuban at home – 86:73 (16:15, 19:28, 32:16, 19:14).
Game progress
The teams started the game calm, the first quarter did not have so much efficiency. Loko sharply increased the momentum in the second quarter. Andrey Martiuk, Kirill Elatontsev and Maurice Ndour helped in defense and offense. Martiuk 10 points in the quarter helped the guests to take an 11-point lead. By halftime, Loko still had it – 43:35 .
Key moment
The hosts began to quickly catch up the opponent, and toward the end of the third quarter CSKA made 3 long-range shots. Loko held on, but the Moscow team had already found the rhythm. The third quarter ended with three-pointer by Nikita Kurbanov and the hosts lead – 67:59.
After winning the quarter 32:16, CSKA wasn’t going to stop. Another three-pointers series brought the Moscow team lead to 15 points. Although Loko is known for its comebacks this season, but this time CSKA left no chance. The Moscow team ties with UNICS for the Top 1 spot.
X-factor
In the first half, the hosts made just 2 three-pointers, but then improved and made 8 accurate three-pointers in last 2 quarters, which became crucial.
Fact
Emil Rajkovic earned his 100th win in the United League.
CSKA won at Megasport for the first time since January 24. The Moscow team only home win was over PARMA at Basket Hall during this period.
Melo Trimble set his new season high in efficiency (38).
Leaders
CSKA: Melo Trimble (22 + 7 rebounds + 5 assists + 4 steals), Olivier Hanlan (16), Ivan Ukhov (10 + 6 rebounds), Tonye Jekiri (6 + 5 rebounds).
Lokomotiv Kuban: DeVaughn Akoon-Percell (17), Andrey Martyuk (12 + 6 rebounds), Maurice Ndour (10), Okaro White (7 + 7 rebounds).
What’s next
CSKA (25-9): April 7on the road against Enisey
Lokomotiv Kuban (22-10): April 4 on the road versus PARMA.
