Khimki tips off 2019-20 VTB season with win

The VTB United League ushered in the 2019-20 season on Wednesday night with a single opening night game. It was between Khimki Moscow Region (Russia-VTB) and Stelmet Enea BC Zielona Gora (Poland-EBL).

Khimki opened the action strong and even was able to set up a formidable double-digit lead. However, they got a bit complacent and stumbled under some increased defensive pressure by Zielona Gora.

At the end of the first half, Khimki had a solid lead 40-31. They kept their advantage intact in the third and headed into the final quarter up 60-51.

Despite the absence of Alexey Shved, one of their key offensive weapons in 2018-19, Khimki was able to stabilize in the fourth quarter to stem the bleeding of their lead.

Stefan Jovic paced the yellow shirts with 16 points. Former Golden State Warriors forward Jonas Jerebko chipped in 14 points of his own to help Khimki get their first notch in the win column of the VTB United League standings.

Stay tuned as more exciting basketball action is yet to come as Round 1 games trickle in.