Zenit defeated UNICS at home – 86:69 (32:17, 20:17, 14:13, 20:22).
Game progress
The hosts entered the game motivated and quickly took the lead in the first quarter. During this stretch, the St. Petersburg team outperformed the opponent in most stats. The St. Petersburg team had a better field goal percentage (65.0% – 46.7%), committed fewer turnovers (2 – 5), and dominated the rebounds (UNICS didn’t grab its first offensive rebound until the 11th minute of the game). All of this allowed Zenit to build a comfortable lead – 32:17.
In the second quarter, the guests managed to equalise the game. After the halftime, UNICS even gave fans hope for a comeback a couple of times. But the St. Petersburg team responded to every guests run with made shots. In the end, the Kazan team never got closer than 11 points to the opponents. Zenit confidently closed out the game for the win.
X-Factor
Solid defense was one of the key factors in Zenit’s win. The hosts allowed opponents to score just 69 points. At the same time, the St. Petersburg team forced 20 turnovers and tied the season-high 13 steals.
Facts
Today’s win secured Zenit third place in the standings. This means the second playoff matchup has been determined. Lokomotiv Kuban and BETCITY PARMA will face off in the quarterfinals.
Leaders
Zenit: Xavier Moon (21 points + 5 assists), Vladislav Yemchenko (17), Andrei Martiuk (15), Johnny Juzang (12)
UNICS: Jalen Reynolds (15), Alexey Shved (10), Andrey Lopatin (10)
What’s next
Zenit: April 22 at home against CSKA
UNICS: April 18 on the road versus Enisey.
