Astana opened 2026 on a positive note, completing a successful road trip to Atyrau with two wins over Barsy Atyrau in the Kazakhstan National League.
The first game was largely decided early. Astana burst out of the gates with a 13–0 run, and the hosts didn’t get on the scoreboard until six minutes had passed. By the end of the opening quarter, the visitors were firmly in control (22–11). Barsy Atyrau tried to pick up the pace in the second quarter, but Astana stayed organised and kept the game under control (17–11). The third quarter was more open, with both teams scoring freely (24–17), before Astana closed things out comfortably to take a 79–50 win.
Alexander Zhigulin led the way in the opener with 15 points, while Robert Pan contributed 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists. Askar Maidyekin, Ruslan Aitkali, and Adas Juškevičius each finished with 9 points.
The second game was more competitive early on. The teams traded baskets in the first quarter (19–18), but Astana pulled away in the second period, outscoring the hosts 27–13 to take control before halftime. Barsy Atyrau showed more fight after the break, but Astana answered every push and finished strong, winning the final quarter 26–16 to secure another road victory.
Point guard E.J. Day was the standout in the second game, finishing with 22 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds. Askar Maidyekin added 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists, while Ruslan Aitkali (16 points) and Robert Pan (12 points, 5 rebounds) also played key roles.
With the Atyrau series wrapped up, Astana stay on the road. Up next is a trip to Kostanay, where they’ll face Tobol on 26 and 27 January.
 «Samruk-Kazyna» National Welfare Fund |
 Uniform operator «Tourism Industry and Sports Support Fund» |
