Lokomotiv Kuban vs Zenit. Game 6 preview
Context
In the previous game, Zenit finally outperformed their opponents in the rebounding battle — a fact noted by both the head coach and the players: the hosts secured 42 rebounds, while Krasnodar grabbed 32.
The X-factor in Game 5 was the phenomenal scoring performance of Zenit’s stars — Dwayne Bacon (30 points) and Trent Frazier (29) combined for more points than the rest of the team combined. However, the opponent also had a dynamic duo pushing them forward. Loko’s guards Patrick Miller and Antonius Cleveland each scored 21 points and caused plenty of trouble for the St. Petersburg squad. There’s no doubt that on their home court, this pair will be even more dangerous.
Head-to-head
This will be the tenth meeting between the teams this season alone. A victory not only sends Zenit to the finals but also strengthens their lead in the head-to-head matchup — currently 5:4. In overall VTB United League statistics, Zenit also holds the edge: 22 wins to Lokomotiv Kuban’s 19.
Quotes
Zenit head coach Xavi Pascual — before Game 6:
We come back here, to Krasnodar after a long trip. We know that we are near the end of this play-off. Any detail is going to be crucial. So we have to be solid, to control the emotions, to be focused on what we can control and to be effective in offense. And defensively for sure we have to continue in the way that we are working, but still we can do it a little bit better. We will need to fight in any possession, for any rebound, for any 50|50 goals, and for any situation.
Zenit captain Sergey Karasev also shared his thoughts ahead of the match:
We’d love to finish the series in Krasnodar, to take that away win. First and foremost, we just need to play like we did in St. Petersburg — all together, one for all and all for one. I hope our fans will be supporting us through the screen, and we’ll try to do everything we can to secure a place in the final tomorrow.
Who. Where. When.
Opponent: Lokomotiv Kuban
Location: Basket Hall, Krasnodar
Date: May 19, 20:00 (Saint Petersburg time)
Broadcast: Match! Strana, Okko Sport, VTB League website, Start TV
