Day 7: Khimky keeps a leadership position 4 december 2012
Eurobasket.com
The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with extra overtimes, derby games, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.
The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Russian Khimky as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Khimky defeated 6th ranked Lithuanian Lietuvos rytas in Khimki 80-69. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Lietuvos rytas. The game was mostly controlled by Khimky. Lietuvos rytas managed to win second period 19-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 23-of-28 free shots (82.1 percent) during the game. Khimky forced 19 Lietuvos rytas turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Lietuvos rytas helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Croatian-Bosnian guard Zoran Planinic (198-82) fired 20 points and 4 assists for the winners. Sergey Monya (202-83) chipped in 13 points. Croatian center Leon Radosevic (206-90) produced 15 points and 6 rebounds for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Khimky have a solid series of three victories in a row. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with CSKA. Lietuvos rytas at the other side keep the sixth place with four games lost. They share the position with BC Donetsk and Triumph. Lietuvos rytas will play next round against BC Donetsk trying to get back on the winning streak. Khimky will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked Azovmash in Mariupol.
Another exciting game was played in Samara between fourth ranked Unics Kazan and 3rd placed Krasnie Krilya where Unics Kazan (5-2) beat Krasnie Krilya (4-3) on the road 69-56. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Krasnie Krilya. Worth to mention a great performance of Greek power forward Ian Vougioukas (212-85, college: St.Louis) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 5 rebounds. Kostas Kaimakoglou contributed with 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American guard Chester Simmons (196-82, college: Washington) answered with 10 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for Krasnie Krilya. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Unics Kazan moved-up to third place, which they share with Lokomotiv and VEF Riga. Krasnie Krilya at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. They share it with N.Novgorod. Unics Kazan will play against BC Astana (#5) at home in the next round. Krasnie Krilya will play against Kalev/Cramo in Tallinn and hopes to get back on the winning track.
One of the most interesting games of round 7 was a derby match between two teams from Russia. The game took place in Lubertsy where seventh ranked Enisey Krasnoyarsk won against host Triumph Lyubertsy (3-4) 81-77. It was a great evening for Zabian Dowdell who led his team to a victory scoring 15 points and 5 rebounds. At the losing side Tywain McKee responded with 21 points and 5 steals. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. Enisey Krasnoyarsk (3-3) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with BC Astana. Loser Triumph Lyubertsy keeps the sixth position with four games lost. They share it with Lietuvos rytas and BC Donetsk. Enisey Krasnoyarsk will meet CEZ Nymburk (#8) on the road in the next round. Triumph Lyubertsy will play against Neptunas in Klaipeda and hope to secure a win.
One of the most interesting games of round 7 was a derby match between two teams from Russia. First ranked CSKA Moscow outleveled visiting BC Nizhny Novgorod (4-3) 83-60. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of BC Nizhny Novgorod. It was an exceptional evening for Viktor Khryapa who led the winners and scored 12 points and 7 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. CSKA Moscow have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending Russian champion maintains first place with 6-1 record, which they share with Khimky. BC Nizhny Novgorod at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. CSKA Moscow's next round opponent will be Lokomotiv (#3) in Kuban, which may be the game of the day. BC Nizhny Novgorod will play at home against VEF Riga and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Belarusian Tsmoki-Minsk (0-7) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 98-73 loss to fourth ranked Latvian VEF Riga (5-2) in Riga on Saturday evening. Donatas Zavackas fired 24 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. VEF Riga have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending Latvian champion moved-up to third place, which they share with Unics and Lokomotiv. Defending Belarusian champion Tsmoki-Minsk still closes the standings with seven games lost. VEF Riga will face BC Nizhny Novgorod (#5) on the road in the next round. Tsmoki-Minsk will play against the league's second-placed Zalgiris (#2) in Kaunas and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Other games of round 7 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
BC Donetsk was defeated by PGE Turow in Zgorzelec 83-81. Neptunas was beaten by Lokomotiv at home 83-95. Kalev/Cramo lost to Azovmash on the opponent's court 71-76. Zalgiris outscored CEZ Nymburk in a home game 90-70.
The best stats of 7th round was 21 points, 5 rebounds and 13 assists by Nick Calathes of Lokomotiv.
PGE Turow — BC Donetsk 83-81 OT
There was an upset in Zgorzelec where higher ranked Ukrainian BC Donetsk (3-4) was edged by ninth ranked Polish PGE Turow (2-5) 83-81 on Monday. BC Donetsk trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 24-11 run in the last quarter tied the game at the end of regular time, But then they lost eventually overtime period 9-11. PGE Turow made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. French-Polish forward Aaron Cel (203-87) fired a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Power forward Damian Kulig (206-87) chipped in 16 points and 6 rebounds. American-Trinidad and Tobago center D'or Fischer (211-81, college: W.Virginia) produced 23 points and 7 rebounds (perfect from the field making all ten shots !!!) and Serbian forward Ivan Radenovic (209-84, college: Arizona) added 14 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Four PGE Turow and five BC Donetsk players scored in double figures. PGE Turow moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Azovmash and CEZ Nymburk. Defending Ukrainian champion BC Donetsk dropped to the sixth position with four games lost. PGE Turow will face league's second-placed Spartak St.Petersburg at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
PGE Turow: D.Kulig 16+6reb+1ast, A.Cel 14+11reb+1ast, D.Jackson 14+4reb+4ast, I.Opacak 13+2reb, M.Chylinski 11+1reb+2ast, V.Aleksic 8+2reb+7ast
BC Donetsk: D.Fischer 23+7reb+3ast, R.Curry 15+2reb+3ast, I.Radenovic 14+5reb+1ast, V.Stojanovski 13+3reb+3ast, D.Songaila 12+4reb+3ast, M.Pustozvonov 2+1reb
Khimky — Lietuvos rytas 80-69
The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Russian Khimky as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Khimky defeated 6th ranked Lithuanian Lietuvos rytas in Khimki 80-69. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Lietuvos rytas. The game was mostly controlled by Khimky. Lietuvos rytas managed to win second period 19-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 23-of-28 free shots (82.1 percent) during the game. Khimky forced 19 Lietuvos rytas turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Lietuvos rytas helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Croatian-Bosnian guard Zoran Planinic (198-82) fired 20 points and 4 assists for the winners. Sergey Monya (202-83) chipped in 13 points. Four Khimky players scored in double figures. Croatian center Leon Radosevic (206-90) produced 15 points and 6 rebounds and Bulgarian power forward Dejan Ivanov (205-86, agency: Beo Basket) added 8 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Khimky have a solid series of three victories in a row. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with CSKA. Lietuvos rytas at the other side keep the sixth place with four games lost. They share the position with BC Donetsk and Triumph. Lietuvos rytas will play next round against BC Donetsk trying to get back on the winning streak. Khimky will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked Azovmash in Mariupol.
Top scorers:
Khimky: Z.Planinic 20+2reb+4ast, S.Monya 13+4reb+2ast, K.Loncar 13+2reb, V.Fridzon 11+3reb+1ast, A.Zhukanenko 6+6reb, P.Davis 6+3reb+1ast
Lietuvos rytas: L.Radosevic 15+6reb+1ast, J.Blums 12+2ast, D.Ivanov 8+7reb+1ast, S.Buterlevicius 8+1ast, N.Nedovic 7+2reb+2ast, D.Redikas 6+2reb
Neptunas — Lokomotiv 83-95
No shocking result in a game in Klaipeda where fourth ranked Russian Lokomotiv (5-2) defeated 9th ranked Lithuanian Neptunas (1-6) 95-83 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Lokomotiv. Neptunas was better in fourth quarter 26-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Lokomotiv had a 32-19 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Neptunas were plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. American-Greek point guard Nick Calathes (198-89, college: Florida) fired a double-double by scoring 21 points, 5 rebounds and 13 assists for the winners. American forward Derrick Brown (203-87, college: Xavier) chipped in a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds. Four Lokomotiv players scored in double figures. Forward Deividas Gailius (200-88) produced 19 points and guard Martynas Mazeika (191-85, agency: Interperformances) added 14 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Neptunas' coach Kazys Maksvytis rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Lokomotiv have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Unics and VEF Riga. Neptunas lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with six games lost. Lokomotiv will face league's leader CSKA Moscow at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Neptunas will play against Triumph Lyubertsy (#7) in Lubertsy and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Lokomotiv: D.Brown 22+10reb+1ast, N.Calathes 21+5reb+13ast, M.Grigoryev 16+5reb+1ast, J.Baron 11+3reb+3ast, S.Jasaitis 10+3reb+2ast, A.Maric 8+10reb+1ast
Neptunas: D.Gailius 19+4reb+2ast, M.Mazeika 14+5reb+2ast, V.Sarakauskas 10+3reb+1ast, M.Runkauskas 10+1reb, R.Broadus 8+4reb+2ast, L.Mikalauskas 7+7reb+2ast
Krasnie Krilya — Unics 56-69
Another exciting game was played in Samara between fourth ranked Unics Kazan and 3rd placed Krasnie Krilya where Unics Kazan (5-2) beat Krasnie Krilya (4-3) on the road 69-56. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Krasnie Krilya. The game without a history. Unics Kazan led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 22-of-25 charity shots (88.0 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of Greek power forward Ian Vougioukas (212-85, college: St.Louis) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 5 rebounds. Greek power forward Kostas Kaimakoglou (206-83) contributed with 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American guard Chester Simmons (196-82, college: Washington) answered with 10 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and the other American import guard Aaron Miles (186-83, college: Kansas) added 9 points and 4 assists in the effort for Krasnie Krilya. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Unics Kazan moved-up to third place, which they share with Lokomotiv and VEF Riga. Krasnie Krilya at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. They share it with N.Novgorod. Unics Kazan will play against BC Astana (#5) at home in the next round. Krasnie Krilya will play against Kalev/Cramo in Tallinn and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Unics: K.Kaimakoglou 15+6reb, I.Vougioukas 14+5reb+3ast, P.Sergeev 12+2reb+2ast, V.Veremeenko 8+5reb, I.Zamanskiy 6+4reb, T.Lyday 4+6reb+1ast
Krasnie Krilya: N.Balashov 10+2reb, C.Simmons 10+5reb+4ast, A.Miles 9+4reb+4ast, V.Zaryazhko 9+1reb, J.Massey 6+4reb, D.Kulagin 4+3reb+1ast
Triumph — Enisey 77-81
One of the most interesting games of round 7 was a derby match between two teams from Russia. The game took place in Lubertsy where seventh ranked Enisey Krasnoyarsk won against host Triumph Lyubertsy (3-4) 81-77. The guests trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 21-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Enisey Krasnoyarsk made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for American point guard Zabian Dowdell (191-84, college: Virginia Tech, agency: Stanislav Ryzhov) who led his team to a victory scoring 15 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Alexei Kotishevskiy (197-85) helped adding 17 points. At the losing side American point guard Tywain McKee (188-86, college: Coppin St.) responded with 21 points and 5 steals and Sergey Karasev (202-93) scored 10 points and 6 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. Enisey Krasnoyarsk (3-3) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with BC Astana. Loser Triumph Lyubertsy keeps the sixth position with four games lost. They share it with Lietuvos rytas and BC Donetsk. Enisey Krasnoyarsk will meet CEZ Nymburk (#8) on the road in the next round. Triumph Lyubertsy will play against Neptunas in Klaipeda and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Enisey: A.Kotishevskiy 17+2reb+2ast, Z.Dowdell 15+5reb+2ast, D.Jefferson 11+3reb+1ast, A.Komarovskiy 10+3reb+3ast, H.Rizvic 9+5reb, P.Gubanov 8+4reb
Triumph: T.McKee 21+1reb+2ast, D.Polokhin 13+4reb, K.Landry 10+5reb+2ast, S.Karasev 10+6reb+1ast, I.Lazarev 6+2reb, Y.Naimy 5+2reb+1ast
Azovmash — Kalev/Cramo 76-71
Everything could happen in Mariupol at the game between two tied teams. Both eighth ranked Ukrainian Azovmash and 9th ranked Estonian Kalev/Cramo had identical 1-5 record. This time Azovmash used a home court advantage and won against the opponent from Tallinn 76-71 on Sunday night. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 27-16. But Kalev/Cramo won second period 22-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Azovmash made 19-of-24 free shots (79.2 percent) during the game, while Kalev/Cramo only scored two points from the stripe. Kalev/Cramo was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Serbian center Miroslav Raduljica (213-88) fired 21 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. American point guard Lynn Greer (186-79, college: Temple) chipped in a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 assists. Forward Rait Keerles (201-80) produced 13 points and 5 rebounds and Senegalese center Bamba Fall (217-86, college: SMU) added 7 points, 11 rebounds and 7 blocks respectively for lost side. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. Azovmash maintains eighth place with 2-5 record, which they share with PGE Turow and CEZ Nymburk. Kalev/Cramo lost sixth consecutive game. Defending Estonian champion keeps the ninth position with six games lost. Azovmash will face league's leader Khimky in Khimki in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Kalev/Cramo will play at home against Krasnie Krilya (#4) in Samara.
Top scorers:
Azovmash: M.Raduljica 21+7reb+2ast, O.Pecherov 14+6reb, L.Greer 12+1reb+10ast, B.Bayda 8+1reb, O.Kolchenko 7+6reb, I.Zaytsev 5+4reb
Kalev/Cramo: R.Keerles 13+5reb+2ast, F.Elegar 10+3reb+1ast, A.Skele 9+2reb, G.Arbet 9+1reb+1ast, G.Dorbek 7+3reb+5ast, B.Fall 7+11reb+1ast
CSKA — N.Novgorod 83-60
One of the most interesting games of round 7 was a derby match between two teams from Russia. First ranked CSKA Moscow outleveled visiting BC Nizhny Novgorod (4-3) 83-60. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of BC Nizhny Novgorod. The game was mostly controlled by CSKA Moscow. BC Nizhny Novgorod was better in third quarter 15-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for CSKA Moscow especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.9 percentage. It was an exceptional evening for forward Viktor Khryapa (203-82) who led the winners and scored 12 points and 7 rebounds. American swingman Sonny Weems (198-86, college: Arkansas) accounted for 13 points for the winning side. Four CSKA Moscow players scored in double figures. Semen Antonov (202-89) came up with 19 points and 5 rebounds and Vadim Panin (203-84, agency: Alti Sport) added 10 points and 8 rebounds respectively for BC Nizhny Novgorod in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. CSKA Moscow have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending Russian champion maintains first place with 6-1 record, which they share with Khimky. BC Nizhny Novgorod at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. CSKA Moscow's next round opponent will be Lokomotiv (#3) in Kuban, which may be the game of the day. BC Nizhny Novgorod will play at home against VEF Riga and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
CSKA: S.Weems 13+4reb+3ast, V.Khryapa 12+7reb+3ast, A.Jackson 12+3reb+1ast, V.Micov 12+4reb+1ast, D.Christmas 9+3reb, S.Kaun 8+2reb
N.Novgorod: S.Antonov 19+5reb+1ast, V.Panin 10+8reb+2ast, D.Golovin 9+4reb+2ast, P.Brezec 6+2reb+1ast, E.Baburin 5+3reb+1ast, V.Yurchyk 4+2reb
Zalgiris — CEZ Nymburk 90-70
Very predictable result in Kaunas where third ranked Lithuanian Zalgiris (5-1) outscored 8th ranked Czech CEZ Nymburk (2-5) 90-70 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 50-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Zalgiris made 27-of-29 free shots (93.1 percent) during the game, while CEZ Nymburk only scored nine points from the stripe. Zalgiris forced 20 CEZ Nymburk turnovers. It was a great shooting night for Zalgiris especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. CEZ Nymburk was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Center Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-79) fired 19 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American swingman Tremmell Darden (194-81, college: Niagara) chipped in 13 points and 7 rebounds. Four Zalgiris players scored in double figures. American guard Michael Taylor (188-86, college: Iowa St.) produced 19 points and Slovakian power forward Radoslav Rancik (207-79, college: St.Cloud St., agency: Beo Basket) added 16 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Defending Lithuanian champion moved-up to second place, which they share with Spartak SP. CEZ Nymburk lost third consecutive game. Defending Czech champion keeps the eighth position with five games lost. Zalgiris will face Tsmoki-Minsk (#10) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. CEZ Nymburk will play against Enisey Krasnoyarsk and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Zalgiris: K.Lavrinovic 19+6reb+2ast, T.Darden 13+7reb+3ast, M.Popovic 11+2reb+5ast, M.Kuzminskas 10+3reb+3ast, P.Jankunas 9+6reb, R.Kaukenas 8+5ast
CEZ Nymburk: M.Taylor 19+4reb+2ast, R.Rancik 16+5reb+1ast, V.Hruban 12+2reb, A.Naymick 8+8reb, M.Pavkovic 5+4ast, R.Necas 4+4reb+2ast
VEF Riga — Tsmoki-Minsk 98-73
Bottom-ranked Belarusian Tsmoki-Minsk (0-7) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 98-73 loss to fourth ranked Latvian VEF Riga (5-2) in Riga on Saturday evening. The game was mostly controlled by VEF Riga. Tsmoki-Minsk was better in third quarter 19-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. VEF Riga forced 21 Tsmoki-Minsk turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. Lithuanian forward Donatas Zavackas (203-80, college: Pittsburgh) fired 24 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Forward Kristaps Janicenoks (196-83) chipped in 18 points. American guard JaJuan Smith (188-85, college: Tennessee) produced 21 points and Aliaksei Lashkevich (203-78) added 8 points respectively for lost side. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. VEF Riga have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending Latvian champion moved-up to third place, which they share with Unics and Lokomotiv. Defending Belarusian champion Tsmoki-Minsk still closes the standings with seven games lost. VEF Riga will face BC Nizhny Novgorod (#5) on the road in the next round. Tsmoki-Minsk will play against the league's second-placed Zalgiris (#2) in Kaunas and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
VEF Riga: D.Zavackas 24+5reb+2ast, K.Janicenoks 18+2reb+2ast, D.Bertans 15+3ast, W.Daniels 9+1reb+2ast, E.Rowland 7+2reb+5ast, A.Kavaliauskas 6+4reb+3ast
Tsmoki-Minsk: J.Smith 21+3reb+3ast, P.Ulyanko 13+1reb, A.Lashkevich 8+4reb+2ast, D.Korshuk 7+1reb, A.Fomin 5+3reb, A.Kudrautsau 4+3reb+4ast
Another exciting game was played in Samara between fourth ranked Unics Kazan and 3rd placed Krasnie Krilya where Unics Kazan (5-2) beat Krasnie Krilya (4-3) on the road 69-56. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Krasnie Krilya. Worth to mention a great performance of Greek power forward Ian Vougioukas (212-85, college: St.Louis) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 5 rebounds. Kostas Kaimakoglou contributed with 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American guard Chester Simmons (196-82, college: Washington) answered with 10 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for Krasnie Krilya. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Unics Kazan moved-up to third place, which they share with Lokomotiv and VEF Riga. Krasnie Krilya at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. They share it with N.Novgorod. Unics Kazan will play against BC Astana (#5) at home in the next round. Krasnie Krilya will play against Kalev/Cramo in Tallinn and hopes to get back on the winning track.
One of the most interesting games of round 7 was a derby match between two teams from Russia. The game took place in Lubertsy where seventh ranked Enisey Krasnoyarsk won against host Triumph Lyubertsy (3-4) 81-77. It was a great evening for Zabian Dowdell who led his team to a victory scoring 15 points and 5 rebounds. At the losing side Tywain McKee responded with 21 points and 5 steals. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. Enisey Krasnoyarsk (3-3) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with BC Astana. Loser Triumph Lyubertsy keeps the sixth position with four games lost. They share it with Lietuvos rytas and BC Donetsk. Enisey Krasnoyarsk will meet CEZ Nymburk (#8) on the road in the next round. Triumph Lyubertsy will play against Neptunas in Klaipeda and hope to secure a win.
One of the most interesting games of round 7 was a derby match between two teams from Russia. First ranked CSKA Moscow outleveled visiting BC Nizhny Novgorod (4-3) 83-60. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of BC Nizhny Novgorod. It was an exceptional evening for Viktor Khryapa who led the winners and scored 12 points and 7 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. CSKA Moscow have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending Russian champion maintains first place with 6-1 record, which they share with Khimky. BC Nizhny Novgorod at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. CSKA Moscow's next round opponent will be Lokomotiv (#3) in Kuban, which may be the game of the day. BC Nizhny Novgorod will play at home against VEF Riga and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Belarusian Tsmoki-Minsk (0-7) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 98-73 loss to fourth ranked Latvian VEF Riga (5-2) in Riga on Saturday evening. Donatas Zavackas fired 24 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. VEF Riga have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending Latvian champion moved-up to third place, which they share with Unics and Lokomotiv. Defending Belarusian champion Tsmoki-Minsk still closes the standings with seven games lost. VEF Riga will face BC Nizhny Novgorod (#5) on the road in the next round. Tsmoki-Minsk will play against the league's second-placed Zalgiris (#2) in Kaunas and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Other games of round 7 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
BC Donetsk was defeated by PGE Turow in Zgorzelec 83-81. Neptunas was beaten by Lokomotiv at home 83-95. Kalev/Cramo lost to Azovmash on the opponent's court 71-76. Zalgiris outscored CEZ Nymburk in a home game 90-70.
The best stats of 7th round was 21 points, 5 rebounds and 13 assists by Nick Calathes of Lokomotiv.
PGE Turow — BC Donetsk 83-81 OT
There was an upset in Zgorzelec where higher ranked Ukrainian BC Donetsk (3-4) was edged by ninth ranked Polish PGE Turow (2-5) 83-81 on Monday. BC Donetsk trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 24-11 run in the last quarter tied the game at the end of regular time, But then they lost eventually overtime period 9-11. PGE Turow made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. French-Polish forward Aaron Cel (203-87) fired a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Power forward Damian Kulig (206-87) chipped in 16 points and 6 rebounds. American-Trinidad and Tobago center D'or Fischer (211-81, college: W.Virginia) produced 23 points and 7 rebounds (perfect from the field making all ten shots !!!) and Serbian forward Ivan Radenovic (209-84, college: Arizona) added 14 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Four PGE Turow and five BC Donetsk players scored in double figures. PGE Turow moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Azovmash and CEZ Nymburk. Defending Ukrainian champion BC Donetsk dropped to the sixth position with four games lost. PGE Turow will face league's second-placed Spartak St.Petersburg at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
PGE Turow: D.Kulig 16+6reb+1ast, A.Cel 14+11reb+1ast, D.Jackson 14+4reb+4ast, I.Opacak 13+2reb, M.Chylinski 11+1reb+2ast, V.Aleksic 8+2reb+7ast
BC Donetsk: D.Fischer 23+7reb+3ast, R.Curry 15+2reb+3ast, I.Radenovic 14+5reb+1ast, V.Stojanovski 13+3reb+3ast, D.Songaila 12+4reb+3ast, M.Pustozvonov 2+1reb
Khimky — Lietuvos rytas 80-69
The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Russian Khimky as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Khimky defeated 6th ranked Lithuanian Lietuvos rytas in Khimki 80-69. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Lietuvos rytas. The game was mostly controlled by Khimky. Lietuvos rytas managed to win second period 19-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 23-of-28 free shots (82.1 percent) during the game. Khimky forced 19 Lietuvos rytas turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Lietuvos rytas helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Croatian-Bosnian guard Zoran Planinic (198-82) fired 20 points and 4 assists for the winners. Sergey Monya (202-83) chipped in 13 points. Four Khimky players scored in double figures. Croatian center Leon Radosevic (206-90) produced 15 points and 6 rebounds and Bulgarian power forward Dejan Ivanov (205-86, agency: Beo Basket) added 8 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Khimky have a solid series of three victories in a row. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with CSKA. Lietuvos rytas at the other side keep the sixth place with four games lost. They share the position with BC Donetsk and Triumph. Lietuvos rytas will play next round against BC Donetsk trying to get back on the winning streak. Khimky will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked Azovmash in Mariupol.
Top scorers:
Khimky: Z.Planinic 20+2reb+4ast, S.Monya 13+4reb+2ast, K.Loncar 13+2reb, V.Fridzon 11+3reb+1ast, A.Zhukanenko 6+6reb, P.Davis 6+3reb+1ast
Lietuvos rytas: L.Radosevic 15+6reb+1ast, J.Blums 12+2ast, D.Ivanov 8+7reb+1ast, S.Buterlevicius 8+1ast, N.Nedovic 7+2reb+2ast, D.Redikas 6+2reb
Neptunas — Lokomotiv 83-95
No shocking result in a game in Klaipeda where fourth ranked Russian Lokomotiv (5-2) defeated 9th ranked Lithuanian Neptunas (1-6) 95-83 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Lokomotiv. Neptunas was better in fourth quarter 26-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Lokomotiv had a 32-19 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Neptunas were plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. American-Greek point guard Nick Calathes (198-89, college: Florida) fired a double-double by scoring 21 points, 5 rebounds and 13 assists for the winners. American forward Derrick Brown (203-87, college: Xavier) chipped in a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds. Four Lokomotiv players scored in double figures. Forward Deividas Gailius (200-88) produced 19 points and guard Martynas Mazeika (191-85, agency: Interperformances) added 14 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Neptunas' coach Kazys Maksvytis rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Lokomotiv have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Unics and VEF Riga. Neptunas lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with six games lost. Lokomotiv will face league's leader CSKA Moscow at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Neptunas will play against Triumph Lyubertsy (#7) in Lubertsy and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Lokomotiv: D.Brown 22+10reb+1ast, N.Calathes 21+5reb+13ast, M.Grigoryev 16+5reb+1ast, J.Baron 11+3reb+3ast, S.Jasaitis 10+3reb+2ast, A.Maric 8+10reb+1ast
Neptunas: D.Gailius 19+4reb+2ast, M.Mazeika 14+5reb+2ast, V.Sarakauskas 10+3reb+1ast, M.Runkauskas 10+1reb, R.Broadus 8+4reb+2ast, L.Mikalauskas 7+7reb+2ast
Krasnie Krilya — Unics 56-69
Another exciting game was played in Samara between fourth ranked Unics Kazan and 3rd placed Krasnie Krilya where Unics Kazan (5-2) beat Krasnie Krilya (4-3) on the road 69-56. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Krasnie Krilya. The game without a history. Unics Kazan led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 22-of-25 charity shots (88.0 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of Greek power forward Ian Vougioukas (212-85, college: St.Louis) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 5 rebounds. Greek power forward Kostas Kaimakoglou (206-83) contributed with 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American guard Chester Simmons (196-82, college: Washington) answered with 10 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and the other American import guard Aaron Miles (186-83, college: Kansas) added 9 points and 4 assists in the effort for Krasnie Krilya. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Unics Kazan moved-up to third place, which they share with Lokomotiv and VEF Riga. Krasnie Krilya at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. They share it with N.Novgorod. Unics Kazan will play against BC Astana (#5) at home in the next round. Krasnie Krilya will play against Kalev/Cramo in Tallinn and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Unics: K.Kaimakoglou 15+6reb, I.Vougioukas 14+5reb+3ast, P.Sergeev 12+2reb+2ast, V.Veremeenko 8+5reb, I.Zamanskiy 6+4reb, T.Lyday 4+6reb+1ast
Krasnie Krilya: N.Balashov 10+2reb, C.Simmons 10+5reb+4ast, A.Miles 9+4reb+4ast, V.Zaryazhko 9+1reb, J.Massey 6+4reb, D.Kulagin 4+3reb+1ast
Triumph — Enisey 77-81
One of the most interesting games of round 7 was a derby match between two teams from Russia. The game took place in Lubertsy where seventh ranked Enisey Krasnoyarsk won against host Triumph Lyubertsy (3-4) 81-77. The guests trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 21-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Enisey Krasnoyarsk made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for American point guard Zabian Dowdell (191-84, college: Virginia Tech, agency: Stanislav Ryzhov) who led his team to a victory scoring 15 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Alexei Kotishevskiy (197-85) helped adding 17 points. At the losing side American point guard Tywain McKee (188-86, college: Coppin St.) responded with 21 points and 5 steals and Sergey Karasev (202-93) scored 10 points and 6 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. Enisey Krasnoyarsk (3-3) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with BC Astana. Loser Triumph Lyubertsy keeps the sixth position with four games lost. They share it with Lietuvos rytas and BC Donetsk. Enisey Krasnoyarsk will meet CEZ Nymburk (#8) on the road in the next round. Triumph Lyubertsy will play against Neptunas in Klaipeda and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Enisey: A.Kotishevskiy 17+2reb+2ast, Z.Dowdell 15+5reb+2ast, D.Jefferson 11+3reb+1ast, A.Komarovskiy 10+3reb+3ast, H.Rizvic 9+5reb, P.Gubanov 8+4reb
Triumph: T.McKee 21+1reb+2ast, D.Polokhin 13+4reb, K.Landry 10+5reb+2ast, S.Karasev 10+6reb+1ast, I.Lazarev 6+2reb, Y.Naimy 5+2reb+1ast
Azovmash — Kalev/Cramo 76-71
Everything could happen in Mariupol at the game between two tied teams. Both eighth ranked Ukrainian Azovmash and 9th ranked Estonian Kalev/Cramo had identical 1-5 record. This time Azovmash used a home court advantage and won against the opponent from Tallinn 76-71 on Sunday night. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 27-16. But Kalev/Cramo won second period 22-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Azovmash made 19-of-24 free shots (79.2 percent) during the game, while Kalev/Cramo only scored two points from the stripe. Kalev/Cramo was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Serbian center Miroslav Raduljica (213-88) fired 21 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. American point guard Lynn Greer (186-79, college: Temple) chipped in a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 assists. Forward Rait Keerles (201-80) produced 13 points and 5 rebounds and Senegalese center Bamba Fall (217-86, college: SMU) added 7 points, 11 rebounds and 7 blocks respectively for lost side. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. Azovmash maintains eighth place with 2-5 record, which they share with PGE Turow and CEZ Nymburk. Kalev/Cramo lost sixth consecutive game. Defending Estonian champion keeps the ninth position with six games lost. Azovmash will face league's leader Khimky in Khimki in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Kalev/Cramo will play at home against Krasnie Krilya (#4) in Samara.
Top scorers:
Azovmash: M.Raduljica 21+7reb+2ast, O.Pecherov 14+6reb, L.Greer 12+1reb+10ast, B.Bayda 8+1reb, O.Kolchenko 7+6reb, I.Zaytsev 5+4reb
Kalev/Cramo: R.Keerles 13+5reb+2ast, F.Elegar 10+3reb+1ast, A.Skele 9+2reb, G.Arbet 9+1reb+1ast, G.Dorbek 7+3reb+5ast, B.Fall 7+11reb+1ast
CSKA — N.Novgorod 83-60
One of the most interesting games of round 7 was a derby match between two teams from Russia. First ranked CSKA Moscow outleveled visiting BC Nizhny Novgorod (4-3) 83-60. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of BC Nizhny Novgorod. The game was mostly controlled by CSKA Moscow. BC Nizhny Novgorod was better in third quarter 15-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for CSKA Moscow especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.9 percentage. It was an exceptional evening for forward Viktor Khryapa (203-82) who led the winners and scored 12 points and 7 rebounds. American swingman Sonny Weems (198-86, college: Arkansas) accounted for 13 points for the winning side. Four CSKA Moscow players scored in double figures. Semen Antonov (202-89) came up with 19 points and 5 rebounds and Vadim Panin (203-84, agency: Alti Sport) added 10 points and 8 rebounds respectively for BC Nizhny Novgorod in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. CSKA Moscow have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending Russian champion maintains first place with 6-1 record, which they share with Khimky. BC Nizhny Novgorod at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. CSKA Moscow's next round opponent will be Lokomotiv (#3) in Kuban, which may be the game of the day. BC Nizhny Novgorod will play at home against VEF Riga and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
CSKA: S.Weems 13+4reb+3ast, V.Khryapa 12+7reb+3ast, A.Jackson 12+3reb+1ast, V.Micov 12+4reb+1ast, D.Christmas 9+3reb, S.Kaun 8+2reb
N.Novgorod: S.Antonov 19+5reb+1ast, V.Panin 10+8reb+2ast, D.Golovin 9+4reb+2ast, P.Brezec 6+2reb+1ast, E.Baburin 5+3reb+1ast, V.Yurchyk 4+2reb
Zalgiris — CEZ Nymburk 90-70
Very predictable result in Kaunas where third ranked Lithuanian Zalgiris (5-1) outscored 8th ranked Czech CEZ Nymburk (2-5) 90-70 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 50-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Zalgiris made 27-of-29 free shots (93.1 percent) during the game, while CEZ Nymburk only scored nine points from the stripe. Zalgiris forced 20 CEZ Nymburk turnovers. It was a great shooting night for Zalgiris especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. CEZ Nymburk was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Center Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-79) fired 19 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American swingman Tremmell Darden (194-81, college: Niagara) chipped in 13 points and 7 rebounds. Four Zalgiris players scored in double figures. American guard Michael Taylor (188-86, college: Iowa St.) produced 19 points and Slovakian power forward Radoslav Rancik (207-79, college: St.Cloud St., agency: Beo Basket) added 16 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Defending Lithuanian champion moved-up to second place, which they share with Spartak SP. CEZ Nymburk lost third consecutive game. Defending Czech champion keeps the eighth position with five games lost. Zalgiris will face Tsmoki-Minsk (#10) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. CEZ Nymburk will play against Enisey Krasnoyarsk and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Zalgiris: K.Lavrinovic 19+6reb+2ast, T.Darden 13+7reb+3ast, M.Popovic 11+2reb+5ast, M.Kuzminskas 10+3reb+3ast, P.Jankunas 9+6reb, R.Kaukenas 8+5ast
CEZ Nymburk: M.Taylor 19+4reb+2ast, R.Rancik 16+5reb+1ast, V.Hruban 12+2reb, A.Naymick 8+8reb, M.Pavkovic 5+4ast, R.Necas 4+4reb+2ast
VEF Riga — Tsmoki-Minsk 98-73
Bottom-ranked Belarusian Tsmoki-Minsk (0-7) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 98-73 loss to fourth ranked Latvian VEF Riga (5-2) in Riga on Saturday evening. The game was mostly controlled by VEF Riga. Tsmoki-Minsk was better in third quarter 19-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. VEF Riga forced 21 Tsmoki-Minsk turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. Lithuanian forward Donatas Zavackas (203-80, college: Pittsburgh) fired 24 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Forward Kristaps Janicenoks (196-83) chipped in 18 points. American guard JaJuan Smith (188-85, college: Tennessee) produced 21 points and Aliaksei Lashkevich (203-78) added 8 points respectively for lost side. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. VEF Riga have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending Latvian champion moved-up to third place, which they share with Unics and Lokomotiv. Defending Belarusian champion Tsmoki-Minsk still closes the standings with seven games lost. VEF Riga will face BC Nizhny Novgorod (#5) on the road in the next round. Tsmoki-Minsk will play against the league's second-placed Zalgiris (#2) in Kaunas and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
VEF Riga: D.Zavackas 24+5reb+2ast, K.Janicenoks 18+2reb+2ast, D.Bertans 15+3ast, W.Daniels 9+1reb+2ast, E.Rowland 7+2reb+5ast, A.Kavaliauskas 6+4reb+3ast
Tsmoki-Minsk: J.Smith 21+3reb+3ast, P.Ulyanko 13+1reb, A.Lashkevich 8+4reb+2ast, D.Korshuk 7+1reb, A.Fomin 5+3reb, A.Kudrautsau 4+3reb+4ast
Source
http://www.eurobasket.com/VTB-United-League/basketball.as...
