Lokomotiv Kuban narrowly defeated Avtodor Saratov 78-76 in a thrilling VTB United League matchup on February 1, 2026. The game came down to the final possession, with Lokomotiv making a defensive stand to secure a crucial road victory. Avtodor, playing at home, held a slim lead for much of the fourth quarter, but Lokomotiv chipped away and took the lead on a three-pointer with under a minute to play. Saratov had a chance to tie or win on the final play, but a heavily contested shot at the buzzer fell short. The intense, physical contest showcased the competitive depth of the VTB United League. This win was vital for Lokomotiv Kuban's playoff positioning, while Avtodor was left to regret missed opportunities in a game they controlled for long periods.