New Zealand international Phillip Jones had a temperature before the game against Dynamo Moscow Region but he was even hotter on the court as his 30 points sparked Vertical Vision Cantu to a vital win in the EuroCup.

Cantu coach Pino Sacripanti revealed that his star guard was feeling unwell on the morning of the game but Jones was able to play later that night as Cantu won 97-80.

"Phillip Jones this morning had a fever," said Sacripanti.

"Let's hope that by now it has disappeared."

The victory was the Italian team's first in Round II and keeps them firmly in contention for a quarter-final place.

Cantu endured a heart-breaking one-point defeat at Maroussi and then fell to RheinEnergie Cologne but the win over the Russians has given them a 1-2 record with Maroussi leading Group J at 3-0 and Cologne 2-1.

		Kebu Stewart contributed 20 points and 12 rebonds in Cantu's win.

"I think we've played a great game, especially on offence.

"The only negative thing is that we have to defend better over 40 minutes."

If anyone deserves credit for the win it is Sacripanti, who has had to overcome the loss of point guard Nate Johnson and Germany international Misan Nikagbatse.

Johnson was released over the Christmas break while Nikagbatse has been sent out on loan for the remainder of the campaign.

Sacripanti was concerned about the depth of his team, especially with Lithuanian Mindaugas Katelynas out indefinitely with a wrist injury.

Moscow Region coach Rutenis Paulauskas faces an enormous task to get to the quarter-finals with his team having suffered three straight defeats in Round II.

He felt Cantu centre Kebu Stewart had been the opponents' biggest weapon.

The American had 20 points and 12 rebounds.

"Congratulations to Cantu who have won deservedly," he said.

"We have been unable to show our game and we have defended badly, not being able to stop Stewart."

Cantu host Maroussi next Tuesday while Dynamo Moscow Region take on Koln.