Next up is a showdown with the 11-time VTB United League champion, CSKA Moscow. Here’s what you need to know about our formidable opponent.

Eleven Wins Under Pistiolis

We had just finished talking about Andrey Vedischev’s nine-game winning streak when it quickly came under threat. Under the guidance of Greek coach Andreas Pistiolis, CSKA leads the league standings (11-1) and has been undefeated since October 13. The team is currently on an eight-game winning streak. So far, only «Pari Nizhny Novgorod» has managed to halt CSKA’s momentum this season, winning 77:75.

The Secret to Success

Many point to the summer signing of Serbian point guard Aleksa Avramovic (14.1 points, 4.4 assists) as a key factor behind CSKA’s dominance—and it’s hard to argue otherwise. His stellar performance for Serbia at the Paris Olympics not only enhanced his basketball résumé but also earned him widespread acclaim. Rumour has it he received offers from the NBA and top EuroLeague clubs but chose to play in Russia. Seeing a player who boldly sank three-pointers against Dream Team 2.0 (Team USA) is undeniably exhilarating.

Last season’s championship and near-flawless performance this year demonstrate CSKA’s determination to remain the league’s top team, unwilling to yield their crown to «Zenit,» «UNICS,» or «Lokomotiv.» Under Pistiolis, CSKA has moved past the struggles of the Emil Raikovich and Alexey Shved era (when they settled for bronze) and now resembles the dominant squads led by Dimitris Itoudis and Sergio Rodriguez.

Experience or Youth?

CSKA has retained most of last year’s roster. Returning from loan at «Enisey» is guard Vladimir Karpenko, while Ruslan Abdulbasirov joined from «Parma.» Longtime fans of CSKA will immediately think of Russian basketball legends Nikita Kurbanov and Semen Antonov. Anton Astapkovich (20 minutes per game) is seeing a significant increase in playing time, while Alexander Gankevich, who has spent several seasons with CSKA-2, is ready to make his impact.

Head-to-Head History

In VTB United League play, the teams have met 29 times, with CSKA emerging victorious in all matches. The closest «Astana» came to defeating CSKA was on December 15, 2019, when the game ended 104:91 in CSKA’s favour.

Player Comments

Askar Maidyakin, Center for «Astana»:

“We’ve shown progress in our recent games. We need to stay focused and concentrated throughout the match. CSKA has top-tier players, but we must show our determination and fight for every ball. I believe that way, we can challenge them.”

Magzhan Sarsengaliyev, Point Guard for «Astana»:

“Everyone knows CSKA is the league leader. They have excellent rotation and high-class players. As for me, I aim to maintain maximum focus and strictly follow the coach’s strategy.

Do I feel more confident with each game? Absolutely. The support from my teammates and the coach’s trust give me the energy to play at my best.

What helps me adapt quickly to the VTB United League? The team, without a doubt. The guys provide valuable advice and share their experiences, and I analyse my mistakes to avoid repeating them.

Have I learned something from these games? Definitely. The speed of play is on a different level here, and decisions must be made much faster. Plus, our winless streak adds extra motivation. We’re all driven to secure the club’s first victory of the season.”

Gleb Plotnikov, Acting Head Coach of «Astana»:

“CSKA needs no introduction. They are the most decorated club in the league. I believe playing against such a strong opponent requires no additional motivation because everyone wants to show their best.

On the court, I want to see warriors—a team that fights until the very last moment, refusing to yield even an inch.

Regarding the progress of our young players, I hope they continue to grow with every game. While we’re seeing improvement, they still have a lot of work ahead of them.”

Match Details:

Match: CSKA vs. Astana
Date and Time: November 16, 19:00
Venue: Moscow, Megasport Arena
Broadcast: PBK «Astana» website and VTB United League website

The Start

Our team managed to make the first move in this game with an opening run. As usual, Daniel Utomi moved the scoreboard with his signature three-pointers, while Galin Smith worked hard on defense, registering several blocks against Aleksa Avramovic. However, challenges soon followed. The first issue for «Astana» was the hosts' tight defence, which forced a few turnovers and allowed CSKA to respond with a 7-0 run. By the end of the first quarter, we managed to regain some momentum and cut the deficit to 12 points, thanks to efforts from Ruslan Aitkali and Andrey Desyatnikov.

How to Contain Ware?

The next challenge for «Astana» was Casper Ware, who found his rhythm in the second quarter. Leaving this player open is always a risk, and today he made everyone pay by sinking 8 of 10 three-point attempts.  His performance propelled CSKA to a commanding lead. Alexander Orazbekov had some good moments, using his speed and defensive skills to make an impact. With two minutes left in the second quarter, he stole the ball from Vladimir Karpenko and calmly knocked down his free throws. Andrey Desyatnikov also stood out with an efficiency rating of 15. Unfortunately, the team didn’t have enough to keep the fight going.

Playing Without Giving Up

In a game where the disparity in strength was evident from the start, hoping for miraculous comebacks was unlikely. Despite the challenges, the players gave it everything, and there were flashes of solid play. Utomi impressed with his floaters, the pairing of Orazbekov and Maidyakin showed promise, and Desyatnikov made an impact with his blocks. The absence of the injured Danila Pokhodaev was a big blow, as he could have added some much-needed points to «Astana’s» total.

The game ended with a decisive victory for CSKA, 110:50. The team now returns home to prepare for the match against «Samara,» scheduled for November 28.

Final Score:

CSKA — «Astana» 110:50 (26:14, 32:11, 20:13, 32:12)


Top Performers:
Daniel Utomi: 17 points, 4 rebounds
Ruslan Aitkali: 11 points, 2 rebounds
Alexander Orazbekov: 8 points
Andrey Desyatnikov: 8 points, 5 rebounds
Comments

Gleb Plotnikov, Acting Head Coach of «Astana»:

“A demoralising defeat. I apologise to our fans for such a performance. Our roster is far from optimal, and CSKA outmatched us in every aspect of today’s game.”