Samara defeated PARMA at home – 86:78 (29:21, 14:25, 16:21, 27:11).
Game progress
Mikhail Kulagin started the game with 3 three-pointers to give his team a 9:2 lead. The guests at some point took the initiative and even the lead. But excellent three-point percentage (6 of 11), Kulagin and Anton Kardanakhishvili (24 points combined) allowed the hosts to win the first quarter – 29:21.
But in the second quarter, the guests took control of the game. Garrett Nevels had 21 points (8 of 10 field-goals made), 5 assists and 4 rebounds. His team he’s the lead by halftime – 46:43.
Key moment
In the third quarter, the Perm team was able to pull away, but the final quarter began with a 9-point run by the hosts. The Volga team caught up and game went into clutch.
Two minutes before the end, Samara leading scorer Kulagin left the floor due to injury. But even without the leader, the hosts pressed the opponent. Long-range shots by Gleb Goldyrev and Kardanakhishvili gave Samara lead – 84:78. Kardanakhishvili’s free throws ended the game.
X-factor
Despite the injury, this game was the best of Mikhail Kulagin’s career. Samara guard set career-high 32 points and 8 three-pointers made. Mikhail became the 13th Russian in VTB League history to score 30 or more points in a single game.
Facts
Samara ended 11-game losing streak.
Vladislav Konovalov got his first win as Samara head coach.
Royce Hamm took the 4th place in the League history in double-doubles. PARMA center has 21 double-doubles after today’s game.
Leaders
Samara: Mikhail Kulagin (32 + 7 rebounds), Anton Kardanakhishvili (23 + 6 assists), Gleb Goldyrev (11).
PARMA: Garrett Nevels (30 + 8 assists + 7 rebounds), Royce Hamm (19 + 15 rebounds).
What’s next
Samara: February 5 at home against CSKA.
PARMA: February 5 at home versus UNICS.