Zenit defeated Avtodor at home – 91:68 (18:28, 21:15, 28:9, 24:16).
Game progress
The guests took control of the game from the first possession. After starting the game with a 6-0 run, the Saratov team used Artem Klimenko and Kerem Kanter on pick-and-rolls well. Such tactics along with three-pointers helped to increase the lead. As a result, Avtodor led after 9 minutes – 27:10.
Dwayne Bacon and Trent Frazier got the hosts back in the game. The duo brought 30 points, which led to minimal Avtodor lead by halftime – 43:39.
Key moment
The hosts came out for the second half with increased concentration. Vince Hunter dunk put Zenit ahead for the first time in the game. The Saratov team began to make mistakes and had 6 turnovers in the third quarter. Xavier Pascual team took advantage of it and achieved a double-digit advantage before the last quarter – 67:52.
In the final quarter, the guests couldn’t get back into the game. Bacon and solid offensive effort eliminated all questions about the winner in this game.
X-factor
Zenit was able to change the game due to quality defense. The St. Petersburg team let the opponent made 18 turnovers and only 9 points in the third quarter.
Facts
Xavier Pascual team extended the longest active winning streak. Zenit recorded the 12-win streak for the second time in the season – the first similar series was in October-December 2024.
Artem Klimenko had his best scoring game of the season with 9 points. The Russian center did it exactly against Zenit, where he played from 2022 to 2024.
Leaders
Zenit: Dwayne Bacon (25), Trent Frazier (15), Sergey Karasev (13).
Avtodor: Bryant Crawford (19), Jamal Jones (17 + 9 rebounds).
What’s next
Zenit: March 19 on the road against Pari Nizhny Novgorod.
Avtodor: March 21 on the road versus Astana.
