CSKA Again Solves Khimki

CSKA Moscow defeated Khimki Moscow Region at home, 99-87, in Game 2 of the playoff semifinals. After dropping Game 1, Khimki failed to turn the series around in Game 2. The Army Men controlled the contest from start to finish and seize a 2-0 lead.

Intro
The CSKA - Khimki rivalry continued in Moscow with Game 2 of the playoff semifinals. The Army Men came out sluggish in the first game, needing time to refocus after the long-awaited Euroleague coronation. But CSKA ultimately regrouped, winning Game 1 and racing to a quick lead in Game 2.

Physical defense and a big edge on the glass gave CSKA control, while Nando De Colo added six quick points to spark the offense.

Khimki, meanwhile, couldn't score in the paint and struggled in transition, trailing by seven at the end of the 1st quarter.

The visitors mounted a comeback in the 2nd, led by its reserves. Josh Boone did some damage inside, Ilnitsky pulled down rebounds and Koponen provided a reliable option on offense. Khimki even led late in the first half before CSKA closed the 2nd quarter on an 8-0 run, taking a 49-43 advantage.

Vitaly Fridzon started the second half for CSKA, erupting for 11 points in the 3rd quarter. Khimki's starters were quiet early in the period and ultimately failed to contain the home team's potent offense. A barrage of 3-pointers from Viktor Khryap, Nikita Kurbanov and Aaron Jackson helped CSKA scored 34 points in the quarter and assume a commanding 17-point lead.

Tyrese Rice led a brief charge in the 4th quarter, cutting the deficit to seven, forcing Dimitris Itoudis to call timeout. His team responded, scoring six straight to regain a 91-78 edge.

Turning Point
Dusko Ivanovic promised changes and a different approach following the Game 1 loss. But CSKA's deep bench, smart subbing and chemistry on the court disrupted Khimki's plans.

Kyle Hines slammed the door shut on the visitors, blocking Alexey Shved's 3-point attempt with four minutes remaining, before dunking at the other end to make it a 12-point game. CSKA went on to win by 12, digging Khimki a 2-0 hole in the best-of-five series.

Star Player
Nando De Colo. The Army Men bounced back from a quiet Game 1, finishing with 12 points and nine assists to lead his team to victory.

Stat of the Game
7 - number of CSKA players in double digits. The Army Men were solid again on defense and improved at the other end, dictating the tempo for nearly the entire game.

Snapshot