On Sunday, March 23, 2025, the Bertram Derthona Tortona decisively defeated Estra Pistoia with a score of 94-68 in their latest encounter in the LBA Serie A. The match, held at the PalaFerraris in Casale Monferrato, showcased the dominance of Derthona, who have now secured their fourth consecutive victory in the championship.
Derthona started strong with a remarkable performance, ending the first quarter with an impressive 32-17 lead. They managed to capitalize on the home court advantage and maintain a significant distance throughout the game. By halftime, the score had escalated to 54-34, emphasizing Pistoia's struggle to keep pace.
The game, broadcast live on DAZN, saw Derthona's players shine, with both Baldasso and Kugse scoring 15 points each and contributing significantly to the team's offense. Denegri and Weems added 13 points each, while Kamagate rounded out the scoring with 8 points alongside 7 rebounds.
On the other hand, the visiting team faced challenges, particularly with turnovers, which plagued them throughout the match. Pistoia lost five balls in the second quarter alone, hindering their ability to mount a comeback. The best performer for Pistoia was Derek Cooke Jr., who recorded a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds, but it was not enough to bridge the gap.
Both teams were without some key players—a significant factor influencing the game's dynamics. For Berthama Derthona, Christian Vital, who was doubtful due to a chest contusion, did not play. Arturs Strautins was also out due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury, while Estra Pistoia was missing captain Gianluca Della Rosa.
The game marked a reunion for Luca Severini, who previously played for Pistoia from 2014 to 2019. Severini, having secured 71 appearances in Serie A during his time at Pistoia, faced his former teammates but ultimately celebrated a solid victory for Derthona.
Walter De Raffaele, head coach of Derthona, expressed satisfaction with his squad's performance, stating, “Pistoia is a team that plays with a knife between their teeth, so we must focus on their talented players and the pride of their Italian group.” He noted the importance of winning consecutive games and the necessity for his team to recover from their demanding schedule leading up to this match.
The victory leaves Estra Pistoia at the bottom of the Serie A standings, struggling with only 10 points. The team, having lost yet again, faces the need to reassess and regroup as they look ahead to upcoming matches.
The final score reflects not just the outcome but the overall performance disparity, illustrating the remarkable form of Berthama Derthona and the challenges currently plaguing Estra Pistoia. As the league progresses, both teams must adapt to the demands of professional basketball, aiming for success in their respective trajectories.
