“Despite the fact that VEF has new coach, new system, some roster additions, they remain pretty much the same team,” CSKA head coach Dimitris Itoudis said. “They have strong bigs, who help to play aggressive on both ends of the floor, to lead the league in rebounding and offensive rebounding in particular with almost 14 boards per game; they have perimeter threats and players with good low post game. We expect difficult game, we have to be concentrated, motivated and dedicated to what we do.”
In comparison to the game in Riga the opponents indeed overcame serious changes. Spanish head coach Carlos Frade left his position in favor of Janis Gailitis, five players left the team, three new Americans were added – Joshua Bostic, Anthony Miles and Josh Harrelson.
The Army Men will miss Victor Khryapa (broken wrist) and Joel Freeland who injured his shoulder in the game vs Brose Baskets – the center will practice individually as well as Demetris Nichols.
Past matchups
Wins/losses: 7-0
2012-13. VTB United League. VEF – CSKA: 67-75 (+8)
2012-13. VTB United League. CSKA – VEF: 83-75 (+8)
2013-14. VTB United League. CSKA – VEF: 80-63 (+17)
2013-14. VTB United League. VEF – CSKA: 84-88 (+4)
2014-15. VTB United League. VEF – CSKA: 72-85 (+13)
2014-15. VTB United League. CSKA – VEF: 107-78 (+29)
2014-15. VTB United League. VEF – CSKA: 77-92 (+15)
Short dossier
VEF Riga, Latvia
Founded: 1958 (bankrupt in 1992, re-opened in 2007)
Colors: black, white
Home court: Arena Riga (12,500)
President: Maris Martinsons
Head coach: Janis Gailitis
Website: www.vefriga.com
Accomplishments: 4-time Latvian champion (2011-13, 15), Baltic League vice-champion (2011), Baltic League bronze winner (2012), 3-time USSR championship bronze winner (1960, 1966, 1991)
