CSKA Moscow bags 4th-straight VTB Crown

Once again, CSKA Moscow has asserted its dominance in the VTB United League, sweeping BC Khimky Moscow Region 3-0 in the Finals to claim their fourth-straight title. The third and final game of the series had a clear direction from the very beginning. CSKA arrived at the arena, determined to close out the series. They led from the get-go and did not look back, cruising to an impressive 69-99 win.

Solid, efficient shooting and control of the glass was the name of the game for CSKA Moscow. They shot a scorching 20-of-31 from two-point range and 11-of-18 from beyond the three-point arc. They also out-rebounded their hosts 36 to 20.

This title could be the icing on the cake for Russian legend Andrei Kirilenko, whom the organization welcomed back this season. It has been reported that the former FIBA European Player of the Year awardee is seriously contemplating retirement from professional basketball. If so, it is only fitting that he ends his career with the organization that he has given so much to, and with the rain of confetti accompanying the cheers for a championship well earned.

CSKA Moscow was lifted by a solid performance from their starting backcourt duo of Aaron Jackson and Nando De Colo. Jackson orchestrated the team’s offense effectively with 12 points and eight assists. De Colo added 13 points. Big man Viktor Khryapa brought a laudable game, grabbing a game-high 14 rebounds while also handing out five assists.

Paul Davis was the top performer for Khimky with a game-high 20 points. Sergey Monya and Tyrese Rice added 13 and 11 points, respectively.

CSKA Moscow still remains Russia and VTB’s team to beat. Which team, if any, will challenge their supremacy in 2015/16?