UNICS defeated Lokomotiv Kuban in 3rd Place Series Game 1 at home – 97:90 (27:26, 27:13, 21:27, 22:24).
Game progress
UNICS came to the start of the series after 12-day break, while Lokomotiv fought Zenit in the Semifinals Game 7 on May 22. The Kazan team got actively involved in game. In the second quarter, UNICS outscored the opponent in rebounding and aggression, which affected in score. Ismael Bako and Jalen Reynolds helped the hosts to finish first half with slight lead – 54:39.
Lokomotiv Kuban made some adjustments. The guests leveled the game and cut the deficit to 6 points at the end of the third quarter. Despite the guests’ efforts, UNICS managed to keep the opponent at a comfortable distance. The Kazan team had a double-digit lead for most of the decisive stretch, but still couldn’t avoid the clutch.
Key moment
In the final 5 minutes, the Kazan team made series of turnovers, which allowed Loko to cut deficit to 5 and even 3 points, but in both cases UNICS managed to stop the guests – Bako and Darrun Hilliard made free throws after tactical fouls. The Kazan team eventually retained the earlier advantage and started the series with win.
X-factor
UNICS’ 24 turnovers compared to Loko’s 14 led to the clutch in final seconds. Such mistakes almost cost the Kazan team a win.
Facts
UNICS dominated in rebounds this game – 45-22.
Loko was trailing by 15 points after the first half, but continued to fight and cut the deficit to 3 points with 14 seconds before the end.
Leaders
UNICS: DeVaughn Akoon-Purcell (17), Ismael Bako (16 + 9 rebounds), Darrun Hilliard (13 + 5 rebounds), Jalen Reynolds (13), Marcos Knight (12), Marcus Keene (10).
Lokomotiv Kuban: Antonius Cleveland (23), Tahjere McCall (17), Patrick Miller (14 + 7 assists).
What’s next
Game 2 on May 28 in Kazan.
