CSKA Moscow 84–71 Lokomotiv Kuban | VTB United League | 15 May 2026
CSKA Moscow Dominate in Playoff-Shaping Victory
CSKA Moscow delivered a commanding performance at the Universal Sports Hall, defeating Lokomotiv Kuban 84–71 in a crucial VTB United League clash. The victory strengthened CSKA's hold on a top-two finish, while Lokomotiv saw their hopes of securing home-court advantage in the playoffs take a significant blow.
Match Overview
From the opening tip, CSKA established control behind a balanced offensive attack and stifling defence. Moscow led 22–16 after the first quarter and extended the margin to 12 points by halftime, 44–32. Lokomotiv Kuban attempted to rally in the third period, cutting the deficit to single digits, but CSKA responded with a 10–2 run early in the fourth quarter to put the game out of reach.
Key Performers
- CSKA Moscow – Guard Alexey Shved orchestrated the offence with 18 points and 9 assists, while centre Nikola Milutinov dominated the glass with 14 rebounds and added 12 points. Forward Tonye Jekiri contributed 15 points off the bench.
- Lokomotiv Kuban – Johnny O'Neil led the visitors with 22 points, but shot just 8-of-21 from the field. Andrey Zubkov added 13 points and 7 rebounds in a losing effort.
Tactical Story
CSKA's defensive intensity forced 17 turnovers from Lokomotiv, which translated into 22 fast-break points. The Moscow side also commanded the boards 44–33, limiting second-chance opportunities. Lokomotiv struggled from three-point range, hitting only 6-of-24 (25%), while CSKA connected on 10-of-27 (37%) from deep. The home team's ability to spread the floor and attack the paint at will proved decisive.
Season and Standings Impact
The win improved CSKA Moscow's record to 24–6, keeping them firmly in second place behind league leaders UNICS Kazan. Lokomotiv Kuban dropped to 19–11, slipping to fourth in the tightly contested playoff race. With only a handful of regular-season games remaining, every result carries playoff seeding implications. CSKA’s depth and experience make them a formidable contender as the VTB United League postseason approaches.
Both teams will look to regroup quickly: CSKA next faces Minsk on the road, while Lokomotiv return home to host Zenit St. Petersburg in a pivotal matchup.

