Zenit U21 wins the first quarterfinal match

The blue-whites claimed a victory over PARMA-M in the opening game of the VTB United Youth League quarterfinal series. The match took place on the opponent’s court in Perm.

The game started off poorly for Zenit U21, as Roman Knyazev’s team lost the first quarter "-8". However, the team managed to claw its way back and gradually closed the gap. Heading into the final ten minutes, the score difference was minimal, and in the fourth quarter Zenit U21 pulled ahead. Turning the game around in the final stretch, the blue-whites secured an important away win with a score of 66:81.

The top scorers for Zenit  U21 were Ivan Kasyanov (19 points + 10 rebounds + 1 steal + 1 block), Ilya Krivyh (19 points + 4 rebounds) and Egor Evstafiev (13 points + 4 rebounds + 2 assists).

Roman Knyazev, Zenit U21 head coach:

The playoffs are always a special story. It’s harder to prepare for such games, and they’re much more emotional. Sometimes it’s difficult to find your rhythm — which we clearly saw in the first half. I’m grateful to the players and coaching staff that we were able to turn the game around and take the first win. This is just one step — we need to keep working, and improve even further.

Ilya Krivyh, Zenit U21 center:

It was a tough game. In the first half, we lost a lot of rebounds on our own glass, but in the second half we bounced back and won the battle. I invite all fans to come support us in the next game!

The second match of the quarterfinal series will take place on April 20 in St. Petersburg at the Zenit Basketball Academy (Severnaya Road, 12). Tip-off is at 16:00 local time. If needed, the decisive third game will also be held at home — on April 21 at 16:00. Admission is free for all fans.