Zenit-2 let victory slip away in the clutch

Zenit-2 fell to Temp-SUMZ at home. The game against the team from Revda ended with a score of 82:84. Oliver Popović’s squad led for most of the matchup but failed to hold on in the decisive stretch, losing to the reigning FONBET Super League champions. More details in our report.

The game opened with a couple of efficient possessions by Zenit players, immediately giving the hosts a five-point advantage. Overall, the first quarter was entertaining, featuring highlight plays from both sides. Early on, the Blue-White-Sky Blues managed to maintain their lead, forcing Temp-SUMZ to look for different ways to close the gap — 24:20 in favor of Zenit-2 after the first quarter.

The next period unfolded at a slower, more sluggish pace, with numerous stoppages, fouls, and consequently plenty of free throws for the Saint Petersburg side. Despite the disrupted rhythm, Zenit-2 briefly stretched the lead to double digits, but a three-pointer by Vladislav Ilyinov brought the score to 46:39 heading into halftime.

In the third quarter, Ivan Evstigneev stood out for the visitors, scoring effectively from both inside and beyond the arc. Otherwise, the Ural team struggled to turn the tide of the game. Zenit’s offense did not slow down, while Evstafiev and Prokopenko found their rhythm. Although the quarter ended in a tie, the hosts remained in control — 65:58.

However, in the decisive fourth quarter, Temp-SUMZ quickly seized the initiative. The visitors rapidly cut the deficit to a minimum and pushed the game into clutch time. In the closing moments, several costly mistakes allowed the Saint Petersburg side to squander their advantage and let the team from Revda secure the win. Final score — 82:84.

On February 20, the Blue-White-Sky Blues will host Kupol Rodniki from Izhevsk. The game will take place at the Zenit Basketball Academy (Severnaya Road, 12) and will tip off at 19:00. Come support the team — admission is free!