CSKA Moscow Bags The 2018 VTB Title

CSKA Moscow has done it again! They defeated BC Khimki Moscow Region 95-84 in the finals to successfully defend their VTB United League crown in 2018. This is their seventh consecutive title and eighth overall. They brilliantly finished atop of the league standings in 2017-18 with a near-flawless 22-2 record. Khimki were playoff underdogs, having finished sixth in the standings with their 13-11 slate.

CSKA Moscow remains the most dominant force in the VTB United League.  And as expected they flexed their muscles and put on a basketball clinic against an opponent they clearly outclassed. It was a fantastic combination of both offense and defense. CSKA had 11 steals in this game and kept Khimki on their heels. They were also efficient when they had the ball, scoring easily both from long range and close to the basket.

After setting up a solid 27-18 lead at the end of the first period, there was no slowing down for the defending champs. Led by Cory Higgins, who put up 20 points, and Nando De Colo who was a perfect 10-of-10 from the line en route to his 18 points. CSKA Moscow were sharp and composed, and because of their experience were not at risk of losing this contest. They slowed down Khimki every time they were poised to mount a rally. On the offensive end, Sergio Rodriguez kept the red shirts on point with his

Veteran guard Alexey Shved paced Khimki with a game-high 21 points but it was not enough to power his team passed the tenacious CSKA defense.

And so CSKA raised the golden trophy above their heads once again. The Powerhouse is yet to be seriously challenged at least not in recent history. Will a David rise up from the ranks of the VTB and crush this Goliath? Time will tell.