The Minister of Sports for Russia, Mikhail Degtyarev, commended the leadership of the VTB United League for its performance on the international stage. His remarks highlighted how the league’s direction and decisions are shaping cross-border competition and elevating the profile of the sport beyond national borders, a sentiment echoed by media coverage such as Match TV.
Degtyarev noted that CSKA held a clear edge and claimed the win, while he acknowledged personal support from his family for UNICS. He also expressed appreciation for the league’s efforts in a context where teams like Besiktas and Red Star were competing in Moscow. He conceded that the international arena faces restrictions and sanctions, yet stressed that there are notable efforts and achievements by certain clubs and officials that deserve recognition.
In the VTB Super Cup finale, CSKA outplayed UNICS Kazan with a final score of 87 to 72. The victory secured CSKA’s status as the first team to claim the title twice. Zenit secured third place after defeating Red Star of Serbia 83 to 70. In another close contest, Lokomotiv-Kuban from Krasnodar edged Beşiktaş 95 to 94 after an overtime finish, with Antonius Cleveland hitting the game-winning whistle at the buzzer. These results underscore the competitive balance and growing international attention that the league has cultivated among fans in North America and beyond.
Former officials connected with the VTB United League have commented on how the season unfolded, reflecting on the dynamics that shaped this year’s championship and the broader implications for international basketball relations and competition in the region.