Pari Nizhny Novgorod defeated PARMA at home – 88:81 (22:26, 19:18, 18:17, 29:20).
Game progress
The start of the game was equal. Garrett Nevels and Stanley Whittaker duo responded with 15 points to 6 long-range shots by the hosts, which helped PARMA take the lead after 10 minutes – 26:22. In the opening minutes of the second quarter, the guests made 3 three-pointers for a double-digit lead – 37:26. But a timeout by Sergey Kozin helped Pari NN reboot, establish communication in defense. The hosts cut the score difference to 3 points by halftime with free-throws – 41:44.
Key moment
Nizhny Novgorod started the second half with an 11-3 run, but PARMA regained the lead before the final quarter – 61:59.
In the fourth quarter, the hosts made 6 three-pointers and gained a double-digit lead for the first time in the game – 80:68. But the Perm team found the energy to try to save the game, and Whittaker 3-pointer cut the deficit to minimum – 84:81.
Igor Volkhin blocked Nevels shot, then scored 8th three-pointer and sealed the game.
X-factor
An important reason for Volga’s victory was the realization of long-range shots. The home team hit 16 attempts from beyond the arc (47%). Thus, the Nizhny Novgorodians updated the club’s season record for the number of accurate 3-pointers.
Facts
Igor Volkhin had his best game in the VTB United League with 26 points and repeating the season-high 8 three-pointers made in a single game.
Nizhny Novgorod ended a 4-game losing streak and maintained the place in the Top 6. In case of loss, Sergey Kozin team could have ended up on the 8th place.
Stanley Whittaker played his debut game for PARMA and managed to repeat his season-high 27 points.
Leaders
Pari Nizhny Novgorod: Igor Volkhin (26), Alexander Khomenko (18 + 7 assists), Nemanja Djurisic (13 + 6 rebounds), Artem Antipov (12 + 8 rebounds).
PARMA: Stanley Whittaker (27 + 7 assists), Garrett Nevels (20 + 6 rebounds + 5 assists), Royce Hamm (10).
What’s next
Pari Nizhny Novgorod: March 4 on the road against Astana
PARMA: March 5 at home versus Avtodor.
