CSKA defeated Zenit in the Game of the Week – 80:76 (24:19, 19:15, 17:20, 20:22).
Game progress
The teams started the game cautiously. At the end of the first quarter, the Army team was able to get ahead. While the St. Petersburg team was looking for their shot, Amath M’Baye and Melo Trimble came off the benchand helped the visitors took a double-digit lead – 37:24. The hosts sharpshooters woke up only at the end of the first half. Trent Frazier and Vince Hunter made their thee-pointers. By the halftime, CSKA maintained a comfortable lead – 43:34.
Key moment
The Army team held an 8-10 point lead for most of the second half. But the hosts still found the strength for the final run. After Thomas Heurtel three free-throws more than a minute before the end, the St. Petersburg team trailed only by 3 points – 72:75. The teams made tactical free-throws, where the coolness of the players allowed the Moscow team to keep the winning score.
Fact
Zenit has been unable to beat CSKA at home for more than a year. After today’s game, Zenit losing streak has reached five games.
Key factor
Melo Trimble became a real joker in CSKA. The guard scored 16 points, made 9 assists and was CSKA’s most efficient player (25 eff. points).
Leaders
Zenit: Thomas Heurtel (27 + 8 assists), Vince Hunter (11 + 6 rebounds).
CSKA: Casper Ware (17), Melo Trimble (16 + 9 assists), Amath M’Baye (13), Tonye Jekiri (8 + 11 rebounds).
What’s next
Zenit: October 14 on the road versus Astana.
CSKA: October 15 at home against PARMA
