OUR OPPONENT

ASTANA (KAZAKHSTAN)

Founded in 2011
Team colors: blue and white
Honors: Kazakhstan National League winner (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015), Kazakhstan National League silver (2016), Kazakhstan National Cup (2011, 2012, 2013, 2014), VTB United League 1/4 finals (2015)
Arena: Arena Velotrack (capacity – 9270)
General Manager: Valery Tikhonenko
Official website: pbcastana.kz

Where to watch
LIVE: VTB United League website
Text online: VTB United League website

PRE-GAME QUOTES

Dusko Ivanovic, BC Khimki head coach:

“We have only one option — to win this game, but we know it will be very difficult. Astana plays very well; it's a team that plays tactically very well and has different types of defense. In offense they play with patience. They have their own system; they are very disciplined and at home play really well. Astana lost four games in a row but they did it on the road and faced strong teams. I think, at home they play a little bit better than on the road. I hope, everyone in the team understands the importance of this game. We must play with intensity, patience and confidence. We want to protect our third position before play-offs”.