CSKA defeated Zenit in the Semifinals Game 5 on the road 99:73 (24:9, 26:17, 24:24, 25:23).
Game progress
The guests defense left no chance for Zenit – the team scored only 9 points in the opening quarter (Vince Hunter scored the majority), and Xavier Pascual team didn’t make its first three-pointer until shortly before halftime. CSKA offense didi well – Tonye Jekiri ignored Zenit defense in the paint, and Semen Antonov and Olivier Hanlan long-range shots brought the guests lead to 20 points.
Key moment
By the start of the second half, the difference was huge – 50:26. The third quarter started with a 5-0 run by Melo Trimble, which almost eliminated the question of the winner. Although the teams had equal second half, the St. Petersburg team was unable to cut the deficit and avoid a major loss. The series moves to Moscow with the score 3-2.
X-Factor
Tonye Jekiri was one of CSKA best players of the game. Zenit defense couldn’t handle the center, who dominated in the paint and helped CSKA win the rebounds – 41-27.
Fact
CSKA 99 points are the team’s Playoffs-high and the second-highest total in the League after Lokomotiv Kuban 112 points in the Quarterfinals against PARMA.
Leaders
Zenit: Trent Frazier (18 + 5 rebounds), Thomas Heurtel (13), Igor Volkhin (11), Vince Hunter (11)
CSKA: Melo Trimble (17 + 7 assists), Tony Jekiri (15 + 7 rebounds), Olivier Hanlan (14), Amath M’Baye (13 + 5 rebounds), Casper Ware (13), Anton Astapkovic (10).
What’s next
May 19 in Moscow.
