Zenit vs CSKA. Game 1 preview
Context
The final series between Zenit and CSKA will begin in St. Petersburg. The two teams took different paths to reach the battle for the main trophy. In their semifinal, the "army team" confidently defeated Kazan’s UNICS, sweeping the series 4-0.
Zenit, on the other hand, went all the way to Game 7 in a tough showdown against Lokomotiv Kuban and clinched a spot in the final in a decisive game backed by a roaring home crowd. Who knows — home-court advantage may turn out to be the key factor in the fight for gold.
After seven playoff games, CSKA boasts the highest scoring average among all participating teams. Andreas Pistiolis’ squad averages 92.4 points per game with a 50.2% field goal percentage. Zenit, having played three more games, is averaging 90.1 points per game with a 47.1% shooting percentage.
Head-to-head
Exactly three years after Xavi Pascual’s team won the championship, these fierce rivals meet again in the final. During the regular season, the St. Petersburg team led the head-to-head series 3-1. But now it's playoff time — and everything changes here. A grueling and intense series lies ahead, one that will bring fans thrilling emotions and unforgettable moments. But in the end, only one team will lift the Belov Cup high above their heads.
Quotes
Zenit head coach Xavi Pascual — ahead of Game 1 against CSKA:
We are going to open this final here at home. One more time we wish that all the supporters will help us. We know that we have the home advantage and winning the games at home we can achieve this trophy. But of course we have to go game by game and at this first game we have to be ready. We have to be ready for one excellent opponent who will make us to play on the limit. This is a final, so, we have to be almost perfect defensively and offensively in the Game 1 if we want to win.
Who. Where. When.
Opponent: CSKA
Location: CSC Arena, St. Petersburg
Date: May 27, 19:30 (local time)
Broadcast: Match TV, VTB United League website, Okko Sport, Start TV
