CSKA Moscow keeps dominating in VTB

 CSKA Moscow showed us once again why they are not only one of the most dominant clubs in the VTB League, but in all of Europe as well. Despite missing some key players due to injuries, the Russian powerhouse displayed some fantastic basketball as they took apart a visiting BC Nizhny Novgorod squad. They led from tip-off to ending whistle in what was one of the bigger blowout wins in the VTB, 65-101.

CSKA Moscow sits atop of the VTB League standings with an impressive 17-2 record. Zenit and Khimky are second and third, respectively, with identical 15-3 records. BC Nizhny Novgorod is at a distant ninth place with their 6-13 slate.

BC Nizhny Novgorod vs. CSKA Moscow, 65-101

CSKA seized the initiative early on and rushed to a 17-26 advantage at the end of the first quarter. The second frame saw Nizhny Novgorod keep the scores a bit closer, but they were not able to secure a lead in their favor by the time the whistle signaling the halftime break was sounded. Alas, the guests were completely out

Alas, the guest were completely out-matched by their hosts. CSKA had the edge in every statistical category, resulting in the huge disparity on the scoreboard. CSKA’s had control of the game and it didn’t need to get much from its starters. Nando de Colo played only 14 minutes. The reserves managed to clean up the game without much threat. Cory Higgins ended up leading CSKA in scoring with a game-high 19 points, on some efficient shooting.

Dijon Thompson and Petr Gubanov would lead Nizhny’s charge with 15 points each. The team’s bench was not effective in delivering extra production to help out, but it was a valiant effort in the face of such a daunting opponent.

As of now, CSKA Moscow remains the hands-down favorite to take down the VTB crown once again. It will be a shock to see another team pose as a tough challenge and push them to the limit, but it will be good basketball to watch nonetheless.