CSKA beat UNICS in Game 3 of the Finals on the road – 86:74 (27:19, 27:12, 18:22, 14:21).
Game progress
The series moved to Kazan with CSKA leading 2-0 after convincing wins in Moscow. The Moscow team wasted no time making intentions clear. In the first quarter the guests controlled the rebounding, scored well and got consistent support from Casper Ware, who scored 9 points on 3 of 4 three-pointers.
The second quarter started even worse for the hosts – CSKA opened it on a 9-0 run. The guests blocked UNICS guards and brought the hosts offense to a standstill. The Kazan team struggled for energy, confidence and decision-making throughout, while CSKA built the lead by feeding Livio Jean-Charles in the paint and making long-range shots. By halftime, the Moscow team led – 54:31.
After the break, CSKA never allowed UNICS back into the game. The Moscow team is one win away from a third straight title – 3-0 in the Finals.
X-Factor
Livio Jean-Charles finished with 18 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists on 6 of 8 field-goals made. The French bigman had combined for just 12 points across the 2 previous Finals games.
Facts
CSKA lead the Finals 3-0. No team in VTB United League history has ever come back from 0-3 down in the Playoffs.
CSKA’s lead reached a maximum of 25 points during the game.
Leaders
UNICS: Marcus Bingham (23 + 8 rebounds), Jalen Reynolds (16 + 8 rebounds), Dmitry Kulagin (9 + 5 rebounds + 6 assists)
CSKA: Livio Jean-Charles (18 + 7 rebounds), Melo Trimble (14), Casper Ware (13), Ivan Ukhov (13)
What’s next
Game 4 on June 10 in Kazan.
