CSKA defeated Zenit in the Semifinals Game 6 in Moscow – 97:91 (18:27, 37:21, 16:23, 26:20).
Game progress
Up until the middle of the first quarter, the game was equal. The guests managed to break this with Thomas Heurtel and Juwan Morgan long-range shots, aggressive play in the paint by Vince Hunter (10 points) and zone defense. The opening quarter ended with Denis Zakharov shot, which that gave Zenit a 9-point lead – 27:18.
Casper Ware led the Moscow team. He needed only 5 minutes to score 19 points. The hosts managed to take a lead after that – 40:36. Olivier Hanlan and Tonye Jekiri backed up their leader with made shots. The hosts further improved the lead and had a 7-point advantage by the halftime- 55:48.
At the start of the third quarter, CSKA lead became double-digit for the first time after Jekiri shot – 59:49. Then, Trent Frazier three-pointer started a 12-point run, which changed the lead again – 61:59..
Key moment
A minute before the end, Fraser tied the game – 88:88. But that’s where Melo Trimble stepped in. The American guard first regained the lead, and then secured it after Semen Antonov – 92:88.
The St. Petersburg team still had 41 seconds left, but was unable to make a good possession. Fouls didn’t help the guests either. Amath M’Baye and Anton Astapkovich kept the winning score.
X-factor
Casper Ware has had a very unstable Playoffs. But the American guard showed that he knows how to get involved in the most crucial moments once again. Casper performance allowed CSKA to change the game in the second quarter. As a result, Ware set VTB League career-high 31 points and became the first player in the Playoffs to reach the 30+ points.
Fact
CSKA became the first finalist this season. The opponent will became known on May 22 in Kazan.
In addition to Casper Ware, Zenit center Vince Hunter also set his VTB League-high 29 points in this game.
Leaders
CSKA: Casper Ware (31), Amath M’Baye (16), Anton Astapkovich (12 + 6 assists).
Zenit: Vince Hunter (29 + 9 rebounds), Trent Frazier (20), Thomas Heurtel (18 + 9 assists).
