CSKA defeated Zenit on the road in the Game 4 – 77:72 (15-15, 23-22, 21-16, 18-19).
Game progress
The Game 4 start was really tense. Despite a high pace, the first half was uneventful. Zenit relied on free-throws, while CSKA focused on scoring three-pointers. Though the Army team made 6 threes in the first half, Zenit strategy also worked: by the halftime, the St. Petersburg team trailed by 1 point – 37:38.
After the break, CSKA started to increase the lead. Ivan Ukhov, Samson Ruzhentsev, and later DeVontae Cacok joined to make a 10-0 run. The difference became double-digit and continued to grow. But the hosts replied with the run led by Dmitriy Kulagin and Sergey Toropov. But early in the fourth quarter, Zenit scored 9 points and Andrey Zubkov and-one gave the hosts a lead – 65:64 lead.
Key moment
The game result was decided in the clutch. With a minute left in the game, Casper Ware confused his opponent in the post like a skillful center and gave the Army team the lead back – 72:70. Kulagin answered with a two-pointer, which tied the score. Here again, Ware factor came into play. CSKA guard scored an important three-pointer – 75:72!
Zenit tried to respond the same way – Thomas Heurtel drove in the paint, but didn’t shoot, gave a pass to the perimeter. Dmitriy Kulagin missed a three-pointer – the ball didn’t even touch the rim. Dejan Davidovac took the rebound and was fouled/ He made his free-throws calmly denying to get the host a chance to go to overtime. T he series returns to Moscow with 3-1 CSKA lead.
Key factor
Casper Ware again proved his clutch player reputation – his 5 points in the last minute helped CSKA to win.
Fact
The 3rd Place Series so far is much like last year’s Finals, in which CSKA also took a 3-1 lead. However, the Army team has been unable to improve at home. Zenit fans may be hoping for a repeat of that scenario.
Leaders
Zenit: Dmitriy Kulagin (18), Tomas Heurtel (12 + 6 assists), Andrey Zubkov (10)
CSKA: Casper Ware (19), DeVontae Cacok (16 + 10 rebounds), Samson Ruzhentsev (12)
Next game: May 15 in Moscow
