CSKA defeated Avtodor in Saratov – 87:69 (23:17, 18:17, 20:15, 26:20).
Game progress
The first quarter started equally, but the guests managed to take the lead near the end. Poor three-point percentage played against the home team. Avtodor made only 1 of 9 attempts.
The Saratov team continued to miss three-pointers in the second quarter. Due to that, CSKA held a 7-point lead by halftime. The Moscow team distributed the efforts, with all 10 players receiving significant playing time and scoring points.
The Moscow team came out strong in the second half, starting with 8-0 run and forcing Milenko Bogicevic to take a timeout. Avtodor played tighter and more active defense, but couldn’t change offense. CSKA gained a double-digit lead and focused on holding it.
Key moment
The final quarter did not change the game. The Saratov team had the best scoring quarter (20 points), but the guests held the win.
X-factor
The opponents made almost equal number of three-pointers (27:24). CSKA made 48.1% of its long-range shots, while Avtodor scored only 25%.
Facts
The rivalry history score is 25-1 after tonight’s game. The only time CSKA lost in Moscow on April 2015 (104:107).
Bryant Crawford 6 points allowed him to gain 40points in the VTB United League for the first 30 games.
Leaders
Avtodor: Jamal Jones (14 + 8 rebounds), Aleksandr Petenev (11), Kerem Kanter (11 + 5 rebounds).
CSKA: Amath M’Baye (18 + 5 rebounds), Anton Astapkovich (15).
What’s next
Avtodor: March 11 on the road versus MBA-MAI
CSKA: March 12 at home against Enisey.
