CSKA vs Zenit. Game 3 preview
Context
The second game in St. Petersburg was completely controlled by the blue-whites. Xavi Pascual’s team dominated from the opening tip to the final buzzer, securing a convincing 86:70 victory.
CSKA had a chance to turn the tide, cutting the deficit to six in the third quarter, but Zenit’s solid defense prevented them from equalizing. Also a key factor in Zenit’s success was their shooting efficiency: 44.4% from three-point range (vs. CSKA’s 31.3%) and 53.6% on two-pointers (the visitors had 48.8%).
CSKA’s top scorer in the game was American guard Melo Trimble, who recorded 21 points, 1 rebound and 1 assist.
Head-to-head
The blue-whites tied the series at 1-1. Now Zenit needs to break serve on the road to regain the home-court edge.
Quotes
Zenit head coach Xavi Pascual shared his expectations ahead tomorrow's match:
Game 3 is in front of us. The series is 1-1. It's an important game in the middle of the day. So first of all, mentally, we have to approach the game well. We need to have a good beginning, knowing that we have to control more the transition defence. We have to play an excellent game if we want to win.
Blue-whites guard Xavier Moon — about the support of St. Petersburg fans on the road:
I mean, we come here, we have the business, and that'll be it. We are always looking forward to seeing our fans. Best fans in the league, hands down. With their support I feel like we can get any job done.
Who. Where. When.
Opponent: CSKA
Location: Megasport Arena, Moscow
Date: June 1, 14:30 (St. Petersburg time)
Broadcast: Match TV, VTB United League website, Okko Sport, Start TV
