CSKA Moscow and Lokomotiv-Kuban will face off in the first game of the VTB United League semifinals on May 12, 2026. This highly anticipated matchup marks the beginning of a best-of series, with both teams eager to gain an early advantage. CSKA enters the series as the regular-season leader, aiming to carry their dominant form into the playoffs against a resilient Lokomotiv-Kuban side.