Astana vs. Uralmash

A Tough Start

The visitors seized control early, building a commanding lead in the first quarter. «Astana» answered «Uralmash’s» 12-point run with a three-pointer from Vladislav Isaenko and a solid performance from center Askar Maidyakin, who added a block and knocked down several free throws. However, their efforts weren’t enough to close the gap, and the quarter ended 22-7 in «Uralmash’s» favor.

Holding Their Own

In the second quarter, Gleb Plotnikov’s squad kept pace with their opponents. Maidyakin remained a key contributor, sinking a three-pointer and capitalising on challenging passes from Orazbekov. Isaenko and Pokhodaev added crucial points, while Ruslan Aitkali’s highlight-reel assist to Galin Smith culminated in a powerful dunk by the American forward. Despite their efforts, «Uralmash» maintained their lead, heading into halftime up 43-27.

Staying in the Fight

«Astana» continued to fight in the third quarter, determined to chip away at the early lead built by the visitors. Pokhodaev and Aitkali delivered crucial offensive plays, while Orazbekov stood out defensively, including a remarkable moment where he passed to Isaenko while mid-dive, setting up a basket. Galin Smith added his trademark block on Jeremiah Martin, helping «Astana» inch closer. Despite their efforts, the score remained in «Uralmash’s» favour, 65-47, heading into the final quarter.

The Final Quarter

The fourth quarter was evenly contested, with neither team clearly dominating. «Astana» started strong, highlighted by a powerful dunk from Andrey Desyatnikov following a precise assist from Isaenko. A series of successful plays brought «Astana» within 12 points, but «Uralmash» sealed the game with a few clutch baskets. Despite being without key players like Utomi, Murzagaliyev, Sarsengaliyev, and Motovilov, «Astana» showed resilience and fought until the end.
Final Score:

Astana — Uralmash: 7:22, 20:21, 22:23, 13:14

Top Performers:

Astana: Askar Maidyakin (14 points, 3 rebounds), Vladislav Isaenko (10 points, 4 assists), Danila Pokhodaev (10 points, 11 rebounds).
Uralmash: Jeremiah Martin (19 points, 4 rebounds), Evgeny Belyankov (13 points), Igor Novikov (11 points).
Postgame Comments

Gleb Plotnikov, Acting Head Coach of «Astana»:

«There were a lot of positives today. We moved the ball well, as shown by our 21 assists, and we won the rebounding battle. However, our shooting percentage, especially on two-pointers, needs improvement. Overall, I’m happy with how the team played—they showed spirit, didn’t give up, and stuck to the game plan. While there’s room for improvement, this was a performance we can build on.»

Rostislav Vergun, Head Coach of «Uralmash»:

«Victories always bring positive emotions, and every game tells its own story—it’s great when it ends on a high note. I’m glad we were able to give playing time to everyone ready for the game. We controlled the match for all 40 minutes and deserved this win. I wish our opponents the best of luck—I’m confident that with the return of Grisha Motovilov and Starks, they’ll be much stronger and brighter days are ahead for them.»