Preview: MBA-MAI vs. Astana

A Battle at the Bottom of the Table

In the VTB United League standings, MBA-MAI sits in 11th place (4 wins, 13 losses), and like «Astana,» their 2024/2025 season has been far from smooth. Since late September, Vasily Karasev’s team has managed to gain four wins, including victories over «Uralmash» (85:68), «Avtodor» (68:76, 88:81), and, unfortunately for us, «Astana» (63:76).

However, MBA-MAI is by no means an easy opponent. The red-and-white squad is known for their ability to fight until the final buzzer. This was evident in their recent game against «Pari Nizhny Novgorod,» where they narrowly lost in the final minute (88:89). Similarly, their November clashes with Krasnoyarsk’s «Enisey» (78:76) and Perm’s «Parma» (58:63) were intense and closely contested.

A Blend of Youth and Experience

The phrase perfectly describes this team. In the backcourt, Makhar Konovalov (10.9 points on average) has shown significant improvement this season, while captain and Russian basketball legend Evgeny Voronov (7.6 points) leads by example, inspiring younger players with energy and determination.

In the frontcourt, Andrey Zubkov (16.7 points, 7 rebounds) has been a standout after swapping his Zenit jersey for MBA-MAI’s colours, demonstrating he may have deserved more playing time in St. Petersburg. Vladislav Trushkin has impressed this season, especially from beyond the arc (16.7 points). While center Evgeny Minchenko has been less visible recently, his ability to dominate under the basket remains a threat.

Head-to-Head History

In the VTB United League, the teams have faced each other seven times, with MBA-MAI winning six games. «Astana» claimed their sole victory on January 20, 2024, with a score of 80:71.

Why This Match Matters

Until recently, MBA-MAI was the only team in the VTB United League playing without foreign players. However, a recent change in «Samara» has left them without any international players, meaning both teams now share this distinction. This development adds more intensity to the fight at the bottom of the standings heading into the new year—a chance for «Astana» to make a move.

In the previous game, «Astana» introduced another promising player to the VTB United League—forward Sardal Abashidze. In just nine minutes on the court, he scored 6 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Fans will be eager to see if he can shine again in this matchup. Additionally, the continued development of young players like Orazbekov, Isaenko, and Sarsengaliyev will be worth watching. Let’s wish them luck!

Comments

Gleb Plotnikov, Acting Head Coach of «Astana»:
«MBA-MAI is a strong team, combining youth and experience. We need to avoid repeating the same mistakes, stay united, and stick to the game plan to put up a strong fight.»

Askar Maidyakin, Center for «Astana»:
«We started our preparations for the MBA-MAI game by analysing the mistakes from our last match. We’re not giving up and will continue working hard. Our goal is to play our best basketball and bring home a win for our fans!»

Match Details:

Match: MBA-MAI vs. Astana
Date and Time: December 8, 18:00
Venue: Basket Hall, Moscow
Broadcast: On our website