Kavkasia produced a statement performance in the Georgia Super League, defeating Akhaltsikhe 88-68 at home. A decisive second-quarter run and a dominant start to the second half allowed Kavkasia to control the game, while their defensive pressure forced Akhaltsikhe into a series of difficult shots and costly turnovers.

Match overview

The first quarter was competitive, with Akhaltsikhe matching Kavkasia’s early intensity. Levan Koguashvili scored 11 points in the opening period and helped the visitors stay within 22-20. However, Kavkasia’s depth began to tell in the second quarter. Giorgi Sharabidze asserted himself inside, and Otar Pkhakadze orchestrated the offence with a series of drives and kick-out passes. Kavkasia closed the first half on a 16-5 run to take a 48-36 lead into the break.

Turning point

Kavkasia effectively put the game out of reach early in the third quarter. A 12-2 run, sparked by two steals from Pkhakadze and a transition dunk from Sharabidze, extended the lead to 60-40. Akhaltsikhe called timeout, but Kavkasia’s defensive intensity did not drop. The hosts held Akhaltsikhe to 14 points in the third quarter and entered the final period with a 70-50 advantage. The fourth quarter was played at a more relaxed pace, with Kavkasia managing their rotation and Akhaltsikhe unable to mount a serious comeback.

Standout performers

• Giorgi Sharabidze (Kavkasia): 23 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks.
• Otar Pkhakadze (Kavkasia): 17 points, 7 assists and 4 steals.
• Levan Koguashvili (Akhaltsikhe): 19 points and 6 rebounds.
• Giorgi Tsirekidze (Akhaltsikhe): 12 points and 5 assists.

Standings impact

The win strengthens Kavkasia’s position in the Georgia Super League standings and reinforces their credentials as a team capable of making a deep run. Their balance between inside scoring and perimeter play was on full display, and the defensive effort in the third quarter was arguably their best stretch of the season. Akhaltsikhe, meanwhile, will need to improve their road form and cut down on turnovers if they are to climb the table. The result also gives Kavkasia an important head-to-head advantage in any potential tiebreak scenarios.