Minus Seven Against «Avtodor»
The first quarter saw both teams competing evenly, with the game starting off strong as «Avtodor’s» Caleb Ogada sank a three-pointer. «Astana» responded well, setting a steady pace with two accurate alley-oops from Markell Johnson to Galin Smith, maintaining solid scoring momentum throughout the period. Rustam Murzagaliyev and Daniel Utomi contributed with successful three-point shots.
«Astana» made a quick run in the second quarter, gaining a 25-21 lead. However, momentum shifted when «Avtodor’s» new player, Turkish center Kerem Kanter, began to make an impact with strong play inside and beyond the arc, finishing the half with 12 points and 6 rebounds. The addition of Vitalius Pranauskis added further challenges for «Astana’s» defense, and by halftime, the home team had pulled ahead, 41-35.
«Astana» started the third quarter with a few good plays, suggesting a potential comeback. However, «Avtodor» soon went on a 9-0 run, creating a significant lead. The situation was further complicated when «Astana’s» center Andrei Desyatnikov sustained an injury. Although Danila Pokhodyaev and Daniel Utomi hit several three-pointers, narrowing the gap to 12 points, «Avtodor» maintained control.
In the final quarter, «Avtodor» continued to control the game effectively, concluding with a secure lead. In the closing moments, Markell Johnson reduced the gap to seven points.
«Avtodor» – «Astana» 88:81 (17:18, 24:17, 23:17, 24:29)
«Avtodor»: Kerem Kanter (20 points, 8 rebounds), Caleb Ogada (19 points, 10 rebounds, 14 assists), Vitalius Pranauskis (14 points)
«Astana»: Markell Johnson (24 points, 12 assists), Daniel Utomi (21 points), Galin Smith (14 points, 6 rebounds)
Gleb Plotnikov, Acting Head Coach of BC «Astana»:
“We lost focus in the second half, which was costly in the VTB United League. The competition is strong, and «Avtodor» capitalized on our mistakes. Congratulations to them; they played better today.”
Milenko Bogicevic, Head Coach of BC «Avtodor»:
“ I’d like to acknowledge Coach’s Day and extend my congratulations to my fellow coaches. This was a key win for us; we found our rhythm, which builds confidence for upcoming games. Competing against a team seeking its first win is always challenging. We were a bit nervous in the first quarter, but we settled in, hit open shots, and took control. I wish «Astana’s» new coach success, as they have a strong team and will likely gain momentum this season.”
