Uralmash defeated Zenit in the Quarterfinals Game 4 at home – 72:69 (19:12, 21:13, 11:20, 21:24).
Game progress
The hosts controlled the first half, who were determined to extend the Series to a decisive Game 5. Xavi Pascual team couldn’t find the keys to Uralmash defense – the Yekaterinburg team was better in shooting percentage and in rebounds. Tyrell Nelson and Octavius Ellis duo helped to increase the lead. Shortly before the halftime, Stanley Whittaker brought Uralmash lead to 17 points – 40:23.
Zenit had more confidence in the third quarter. Pascual switched to playing with two point guards, which added some spice to the offense. At the end of the quarter, Zenit cut the deficit to 3 points – 51:48.
Key moment
Stanley Whittaker gave Uralmash back a 13-point lead – 67:54. However, the guests were not going to give up. Kuric, Frazier and Vince Hunter made an 11:0 run to put the game in the clutch. Here again Whittaker proved himself, first with an incredible shot on the end of a possession. The teams exchanged tactical fouls, and the guests missed game-saving shot.
The series moves to St. Petersburg, where the teams will face off in a key game to advance got the next stage.
X-factor
Despite the presence of Vince Hunter and Josh Carlton, Uralmash completely outscored Zenit 45-32 in rebounding. The hosts Javonte Douglas set a career-high 11 rebounds.
Fact
For the second consecutive game in the Series, Uralmash won by the same score – 3 days ago, the Yekaterinburg team also defeated Zenit 72:69.
For only the third time in United League Playoffs history, there win be in Game 5: in 2014, CSKA won the series against Loko, and a year later Nizhny defeated Zenit, with the decisive win in St. Petersburg.
Leaders
Uralmash: Stanley Whittaker (21), Tyrell Nelson (17 + 8 rebounds), Octavius Ellis (16 + 8 rebounds), Anton Glazunov (8 + 6 assists), Javonte Douglas (5 + 11 rebounds).
Zenit: Vince Hunter (15 + 6 rebounds), Trent Frazier (14 + 7 assists), Tomas Heurtel (11), Josh Carlton (11), Kyle Kuric (10).
What’s next
May 2 in St. Petersburg.
