Kayseri Kaski Spor Shoot Down Holders

Lara Sanders pulled down eight rebounds to go with her 22 points

There was a sense of déjà vu in Kayseri as the home side dug out a brilliant 101-86 quarter-final first-leg success against Dynamo Kursk who they met in last year's EuroCup Women Final.

On that occasion, their 14-point lead wasn't enough to secure the trophy after a rotten return game in Russia, but this time they have given themselves a great opportunity of making up for that particular disappointment when they head back there next week.

It was during the second half when the hosts came alive and left Kursk floundering and unable to stem the tide.

The first two quarters witnessed a high tempo and offensive game with the visiting team on top by 52-45 heading to the locker rooms.

They could barely have expected Kayseri to come back and secure a 22-point turnaround, but that is exactly what happened.

They amassed a fantastic 31 points in the third quarter and even out-scored their shell-shocked opponent 25-12 in the last period too.

Rocked by Natalia Vodopyanova fouling out, Kursk went into meltdown and Kayseri filled their boots with absolute joy as a trio of players passed the 20-point landmark.

Evanthia Maltsi, Latoya Sanders and Zoi Dimitrakou combined for 66 points, with Spanish playmaker Nuria Martinez and last year's EuroLeague Women Final Eight MPV Asjha Jones also impressing.

Michelle Snow played well for Kursk, just missing out on a double-double by one rebound having harvested 19 points.