Unics Kazan took a 1-0 lead in their VTB United League playoff series with a hard-fought 97-90 victory over Lokomotiv Kuban on May 27, 2025. The home team used a third-quarter surge to create separation and held off a late rally from their rivals to secure the crucial series opener. The match was intensely physical, with both teams trading blows in a high-level playoff atmosphere. Unics' star players stepped up in key moments, hitting big shots whenever Lokomotiv threatened to close the gap. This match result gives Unics the early advantage in the best-of-five series, putting pressure on Lokomotiv Kuban to respond in the next game. The performance sets a strong tone for Kazan's championship aspirations.