Zenit managed to stop MBA and won the 22nd game of the season — 90:62 (19:17, 33:9, 14:9, 24:27).
Game progress
Both teams have already solved all tasks. But the game became an excellent preparation for future playoff games. After all, the teams will play in the quarterfinals with each other.
The teams got off to a cautious start to the game. The most notable event of the first quarter was Thomas Heurtel return. But the French guard first minutes were unsuccessful and he got only 2 fouls in the first 3.5 minutes.
The guests completely dominated the second quarter. Trent Frazier helped the team to succeed. After his made shot, Zenit took their first double-digit lead – 31:21. But when Frazier went on the bench, the hosts kept up the momentum. Tomas Heurtel and Andrey Toptunov made their shots and helped the guests to have a double-digit lead – 52:26.
A solid score difference and lack of motivation defined the game in the second half. Both teams didn’t force and played calmly, solving their problems and Zenit took the win.
Key factor
Zenit’s defense was the key factor in the win. For 3 quarters, the St. Petersburg team defense successfully controlled the opponent’s offense. Only in the fourth quarter, the guests allowed the team to avoid an anti-record in points scored.
Fact
Thomas Heurtel’s return was one of the highlights of the game. The game allowed the guard to get plenty of playing time. In 19 minutes, the French guard scored 10 points, got 6 assists and 4 rebounds. It was evident that Zenit leader isn’t in great shape, but he still has time to get in shape before the playoffs.
Leaders
MBA: Daniil Kasatkin (12 + 6 assists), Vladislav Sharapov (10 + 5 rebounds)
Zenit: Trent Frazier (18), Caleb Homesley (16), Thomas Heurtel (10 + 6 assists)
Next games
MBA: road game versus Pari Nizhny Novgorod on March 25
Zenit: home game against UNICS on March 26
