CSKA Samara fought off a brave Bourges Basket to take third place in the EuroLeague Women Final Four in Moscow Region.

The Russian side, champions in 2005 and runners-up in 2006, were not at their best, but managed to hold off a determined effort from the French.

Led by the trio of Tina Thompson, Diana Taurasi and Agnieszka Bibrzycka, Spartak Moscow took one more step to winning their first EuroLeague Women title after defeating CSKA Volgaburmash 90-76 in the first semi-final.

The three players combined for a total of 69 points as Spartak controlled the second half en route to an emotional victory in front of a sold out arena in Vidnoje, Russia.

Spartak Moscow head Natalia Hejkova was quick to praise her’s side team defense following their 90-76 victory over CSKA Volgaburmash in the EuroLeague Women semi-finals.

True, particular emphasis could have been given to Spartak’s post players who limited CSKA star Maria Stepanova to just seven points.