Samara defeated Pari Nizhny Novgorod – 85:79 (22:13, 25:23, 15:24, 23:19).
Game progress
Samara took the lead from the start. Their first 2 possessions were good and by the end of the 4th minute the hosts had a double-digit lead -12:2. A timeout by Zoran Lukic helped Nizhny Novgorod to equalize the game. And in the second quarter, the guests even attempted a comeback. Three-pointers helped Nizhny to cut the deficit to just one shot – 29:31.
Justin Roberson and Javontae Hawkins saved the hosts. The American players easily beat opponents defense, scored 20 points and gave Samara back a double-digit lead – 47:36.
But Nizhny Novgorod again showed character. Aleksa Novakovic allowed the guests to make another comeback. Pari NN trailed by just 2 points before the final quarter – 60:62.
Key moment
The final quarter was equal. James Thompson and Javontae Hawkins shots gave the hosts back a double-digit lead – 81:70. But Nizhny Novgorod didn’t give up. And after Sergey Zotkin three-pointer, the guests lead was reduced to 2 points 27 seconds before the end – 78:81. But Zoran Lukic team couldn’t do much more. Samara scored free-throws, which summed up the game result.
X-factor
Samara retained the best League team in three-pointers percentage (41.1%), although in the last 3 games the Volga team sharpshooters had poor performance. But today, the hosts shooters once again showed their class. Samara made 10 of 19 three-point shots (52.6%), which was one of the key factors.
Fact
Both teams had losing streaks before the game. Samara was able to end its streak, but Nizhny Novgorod lost 6 games in a row.
Leaders
Samara: Justin Roberson (17 + 6 assists), Nikola Rebic (16 + 6 assists), James Thompson (13 + 11 rebounds), Javontae Hawkins (11).
Pari Nizhny Novgorod: Bryon Allen (20 + 6 assists), Alexa Novakovic (16 + 6 rebounds).
What’s next
Samara (5-5): November 17 on the road against Uralmash
Pari Nizhny Novgorod (3-6): November 17 at home versus MBA.
