«Nizhny Novgorod» Nizhny Novgorod, Russia vs. «Astana» Astana, Kazakhstan

Nizhny Novgorod defeated Astana at home, 84-80. The Russian club took control in the 3rd quarter, overturning a four-point halftime deficit to lead by as much as eight in the period. Dmitry Khvostov and Victor Rudd led the way for the home team, as Nizhny snapped a five-game losing streak and regained its spot in the top-8.

Intro
The visitors opened the game on a 10-1 run. Pat Calathes, Jerry Johnson and Kyrylo Natyazhko dominated Nizhny's defense in the opening minutes, before 3-pointers from Evgeny Baburin, Dmitry Khvostov and Ivan Strebkov allowed Nizhny to cut the deficit to a single possession.

Astana, however, led most of the first half and enjoyed a four-point advantage at halftime.

The momentum shifted in the 3rd quarter. Nizhny Novgorod found its rhythm on offense. Khvostov scored eight points to go with three assists in the period, helping the home team take a six-point lead, 56-50. A '3' from Andrei Kirdyachkin to open the 4th quarter pushed the advantage to nine.

Turning Point
The home team appeared in total control for most of the 4th quarter. But Astana still managed to pull within four points late. Needing a response, Nizhny Novgorod got it from Semen Antonov, who knocked down a big 3-pointer to end Astana's comeback hopes.

Star Player
Semen Antonov. Overshadowed much of the game by Dmitry Khvostov and Victor Rudd, Antonov stepped up in the final quarter, drilling two huge 3's to go along with two free throws, keeping Astana at bay.

Stat of the Game
5 - Nizhny Novgorod has lost five straight entering Week Fourteen.