Fifth Place Contenders
This season, Uralmash is fighting for the status of a solid mid-table team, and so far, Rostislav Vergun’s squad has managed to stay in the game. They resumed play after the February break with an impressive 81:79 victory over Lokomotiv-Kuban, but just three days later, suffered a heavy defeat against CSKA (109:65). Currently sitting in fifth place in the VTB United League standings with 18 wins and 16 losses, Uralmash has the potential to climb higher. Underestimating them would be a mistake.
The Yekaterinburg team has welcomed back Jeremiah Martin and Octavius Ellis, both returning from injury. Hayden Dalton, a recent addition from Samara, has quickly emerged as a key player. In the game against Lokomotiv, he delivered 22 points, 6 rebounds, and a +26 efficiency rating, earning a spot in the VTB United League Team of the Week. Additionally, Javonte Douglas had a strong performance in that match with 17 points and 9 rebounds. In February, Uralmash further strengthened their roster with the addition of center Ilya Popov, who also arrived from Samara and has been averaging 11.9 points and 5.7 rebounds this season.
For more details on Uralmash’s roster changes, check out our previous preview:
https://pbcastana.kz/ru/news/?id=5798
He's Back
T.J. Starks has sprung back to action and has already played two games since recovering from injury. His comeback came against Zenit, where he looked solid, and in his second game—at home against Pari NN—he was the standout performer. Starks is regaining his form, and we anticipate another strong performance from him against Uralmash.
Head-to-Head History
Astana and Uralmash have faced off seven times in the VTB United League, with six victories for Uralmash and just one win for Astana. That victory came in the first game between the two teams last season, where Astana won 80:72.
Comment from Acting Head Coach Gleb Plotnikov:
«Uralmash is a team with a well-balanced roster. Their recent loss to CSKA does not reflect their true potential. We have been playing solid basketball lately. Our focus must be on reducing turnovers and executing our game plan. I invite all fans to attend the match—we need your support.»
Match Details:
Match: Astana vs. Uralmash
Date & Time: March 8, 14:00
Venue: Saryarka Velodrome, Astana
Broadcast: Club website
