Pre-game breakdown
The Army Men got back from Kaunas right after the game and hosted the practice at USH CSKA on Saturday.
Word to coach
Dimitris Itoudis, CSKA head coach:
We played against VEF recently and know each other well. One of our goals is to handle the load on the players, because we continuously play one game after another, and we keep in mind next week where we play two EuroLeague games. At the same time we have to have enough energy to face athletic and young team, with players who go for the boards and run the floor.
Past matchups
Wins/losses: 16-0
Game of 2018-19 VTB United League season:
23-Dec-2018. VEF – CSKA: 80-107 (+27)
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: 5-time Latvian champion (2011-13, 15, 17), Baltic League vice-champion (2011), Baltic League bronze winner (2012), 3-time USSR championship bronze winner (1960, 1966, 1991)