This time, we are up against a strong opponent—Lokomotiv Kuban. Let’s get ready for the match together. Read on to learn more about our rivals.
Top 4 Contender
Currently, Lokomotiv Kuban holds a solid 4th place in the standings (23-7), trailing slightly behind Zenit (25-5) and comfortably ahead of Uralmash (16-14). In their last five games, Lokomotiv secured four wins—against MBA-MAI (71:93), Avtodor Saratov (80:72), Enisey Krasnoyarsk (97:80), and CSKA (104:106)—with just one loss to Pari NN (86:88).
Key Performer
Lokomotiv’s standout player is point guard Patrick Miller, who was named VTB United League MVP for January. His season averages:
• 17.0 points per game (48.5% FG, 37.5% 3PT, 79.5% FT)
• 7.5 assists
• 3.0 rebounds
• 2.2 steals
• 24.7 efficiency rating
All-Star Players
For the upcoming VTB United League All-Star Game, three Lokomotiv players have been selected:
• Patrick Miller (Team “Visitors”)
• Alexander Gudumak & Kirill Elatontsev (Team “Hosts”)
Injuries & New Faces
Andrey Martyuk suffered an ankle injury during a game against CSKA in late January. Reports suggest he will be out for several weeks. BJ Johnson sustained a shoulder injury in mid-January against Samara, and his return date remains uncertain.
To cover these roster gaps, Lokomotiv signed 30-year-old guard Tajer McCallum until the end of the season. He previously played in the Chinese CBA for Guangzhou Long-Lions, averaging 22.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 2.1 steals per game.
Head-to-Head History
Astana and Lokomotiv have faced each other 21 times in the VTB United League, with Lokomotiv winning 15 games and Astana securing 6 victories.
The last time Astana defeated Lokomotiv was on February 15, 2022, in a thrilling 87:83 victory.
Gleb Plotnikov, Acting Head Coach of BC Astana:
“Lokomotiv is the fastest team in the tournament. We need to contain their offensive pressure, handle their defensive intensity, and minimize turnovers to avoid giving them extra scoring opportunities.”
Match Details
Date & Time: February 9, 2:00 pm
Venue: Saryarka Velodrome
Broadcast: Club’s official website
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