Lokomotiv Kuban vs Zenit. Game 3 preview

On June 5, Zenit arrived in Krasnodar, where the team continued its preparations for the third game against local side Lokomotiv Kuban. Zenit currently leads the VTB United League 2025/26 bronze medal series 2-0. Here is everything you need to know about tomorrow’s road game.

Opponent

The first two games in St. Petersburg followed different scripts. In the opening game of the series, Zenit held a comfortable lead for most of the contest and only gave their opponents a chance for a comeback in the closing minutes. In the second matchup, however, Rostislav Vergun’s team found itself playing catch-up, doing everything possible to cut the deficit. Nevertheless, both clutch finishes went in favor of the St. Petersburg side, which now needs just one more victory to secure the bronze medals.

Looking at the statistics, it is worth noting that both teams posted unusually low three-point shooting percentages in the previous game. Lokomotiv Kuban made 4 of 20 attempts from beyond the arc (20%), while Zenit converted only 2 of 19 (10.5%). Whether this anomaly will repeat itself in Krasnodar remains to be seen on the court at Basket Hall.

Head-to-head

Zenit currently leads the bronze-medal series against Krasnodar 2-0. Across the entire season, the teams are tied 3-3, while in the overall history of VTB League meetings, Zenit now holds a 26-23 advantage.

Direct speech

In his pregame remarks, Zenit interim head coach Rostislav Vergun emphasized that the main objective in the upcoming meeting is to stop Loko’s fast-paced game. Read full comment. 

Who. Where. When.

Opponent: Lokomotiv Kuban

Location: Basket Hall, Krasnodar

Date: June 7, 16:00 (St. Petersburg time)

Broadcast: Okko Sport, Match! Strana, VTB United League website, VK Video, Start Basket