The second round of the Italian Serie A basketball league delivered a potent cocktail of dominant performances, heart-stopping finishes, and pivotal early-season victories. From a derby rout by Olimpia Milano to an improbable overtime escape by Virtus Bologna, the hardwood across Italy once again proved to be a stage for high drama and athletic prowess. Let`s delve into the key matchups that shaped this exhilarating giornata.
Milano`s Resurgent Derby Dominance
After a somewhat turbulent start to their campaign, marked by three consecutive defeats across league and EuroLeague fixtures, EA7 Emporio Armani Olimpia Milano found their rhythm in spectacular fashion. Their trip to Varese for the highly anticipated derby turned into a statement game, culminating in a resounding 94-61 victory. This wasn`t merely a win; it was a reassertion of intent.
The reigning champions wasted no time, establishing a commanding lead early on (17-28 after the first quarter) and never looking back. Despite accumulating 17 turnovers, a minor technical hiccup, their offensive flow was undeniable, evidenced by a remarkable 27 assists. Quinn Ellis, Brooks, and Brown were particularly instrumental, with Brooks pouring in 20 points, Brown adding 13, and Ellis contributing 12. Coach Messina`s strategic deployment of a smaller lineup, even with key players sidelined, proved effective, showcasing Milano`s depth and tactical adaptability. They dominated the boards (48-26) and effectively stifled Varese`s primary offensive threats, Nkamhoua and Alviti, holding them to a fraction of their usual output. For Milano, this victory was not just about the two points; it was about regaining confidence and setting a new trajectory for the season.
Virtus Bologna`s Overtime Escape Act
Perhaps the most dramatic encounter of the day unfolded in Udine, where Virtus Segafredo Bologna barely managed to snatch an 82-80 overtime victory against a tenacious Udine side. For Udine, this was their first home Serie A game in 16 years, and they were determined to make it memorable – almost for all the right reasons.
Virtus, often referred to as the “Vu Nere,” initially tried to pull away in the second half, scoring the first 10 points of the third period and building a double-digit lead. However, Udine, fueled by Brewton (23 points) and relentless rebounding, refused to capitulate. They clawed their way back, tying the game at 72-72 in the final minute of regulation. The tension was palpable as the game headed into an extra period. In overtime, Udine seized the momentum, threatening to deliver a seismic upset. But in the crucible of crunch time, Carsen Edwards rose to the occasion. With a clutch three-pointer followed by a decisive “and-one” play, Edwards, who finished with a game-high 27 points, single-handedly reversed Udine`s fortunes and secured a nail-biting victory for Bologna. It was a close call, a testament to Udine`s spirit, and a clear demonstration that in Serie A, no lead is truly safe, and every point must be earned with blood, sweat, and perhaps a little bit of Edwards` magic.
Brescia Continues Its Dominance Over Trento
In a repeat of the Supercoppa final, Germani Brescia once again proved too strong for Dolomiti Energia Trento, securing a 72-63 victory. Brescia`s early season form continues to impress, with this win marking their second in as many league games and their second triumph over Trento in just two weeks.
Brescia started with a blistering 21-8 run, spearheaded by Ivanovic (18 points), suggesting a comfortable evening. However, Trento, led by Steward (18 points), mounted a significant comeback in the second quarter, narrowing the deficit to five points by halftime. Any hopes of a full reversal were dashed in the second half, largely due to the inspiring play of Amedeo Della Valle. Della Valle, who finished with 19 points, orchestrated Brescia`s offense, expertly drawing fouls and converting from the free-throw line, effectively killing Trento`s momentum. It seems Brescia has developed a knack for dissecting Trento`s defenses, consistently finding ways to emerge victorious in their recent encounters.
Trieste`s Hard-Fought First Victory
Finally, Pallacanestro Trieste recorded their first league victory of the season, overcoming Gevi Napoli Basket in a tightly contested 84-79 battle. After a stumble in their opening fixture, Trieste showed resilience to grab a crucial away win.
Trieste took an early lead, heading into halftime with a 39-47 advantage, largely thanks to the offensive fireworks of Markel Brown (14 points). However, Napoli, spurred by Mitrou-Long (21 points) and a powerful 23-9 run in the second half, dramatically flipped the script, setting the stage for a tense finale. It was then that Colbey Ross (15 points) took charge, orchestrating a spectacular counter-surge, ably supported by Sissoko (13 points). Napoli pushed hard in the dying moments, but a technical foul against El-Amin proved to be the final nail in their coffin, allowing Uthoff to seal Trieste`s victory from the free-throw line. A chaotic finish to a hard-fought game, ensuring Trieste`s debut win was anything but ordinary.
Looking Ahead
The second round of Serie A basketball has firmly established one undeniable truth: expect the unexpected. From established powerhouses finding their footing to underdog challengers pushing giants to their limits, the Italian league promises an enthralling season ahead. Fans have been treated to a captivating display of talent, strategy, and sheer grit, setting a high bar for the games to come.
Murray Blackwood