Dolomiti Energia Trento achieved a significant victory over Virtus Segafredo Bologna, winning 87-79 in front of their home crowd at Il T Quotidiano Arena on December 22, 2024. This match marked a decisive turning point for Trento, who demonstrated marked resilience and skill, particularly during the game-changing third quarter.
Trento's Anthony Lamb led the charge with 21 points, demonstrating his scoring prowess alongside strong contributions from Myles Cale with 17 points and Jordan Ford, who added 13 points. Quinn Ellis also made his presence felt, contributing with 11 points as the team solidified its top position with an impressive 11-1 record in the LBA.
Meanwhile, the Virtus Segafredo Bologna faced difficulties as they entered the game dealing with significant absences. Notably, they were without key players Tokoe Shengelia, who is hospitalized, and Will Clyburn, impacting their overall performance. Despite taking the lead and demonstrating solid play through the first half, where they concluded with a 52-41 advantage, Virtus faltered, succumbing to Trento's pressure.
The first half saw standout performances from Virtus's Isaia Cordinier, who led the team with 16 points, and captain Marco Belinelli, who contributed 10 points. Their team maintained momentum and scoring efficiency, managing to leverage countless free throw opportunities. Yet, the tide shifted dramatically during the second half.
Upon resuming play, Trento erupted with energy, launching what can only be described as dominant offensive and defensive plays. The third quarter was disastrous for Virtus as they were outscored 25-5, sending them tumbling from their initial lead. Lamb’s continued scoring and the combined efforts of Cale, Ford, and Ellis allowed Trento to not only catch up but also seize control of the game.
Ivanovic, the Virtus coach, expressed frustration post-game, stating, “Congratulazioni a Trento, che ha giocato 40 minuti. No, non sono scuse,” underscoring both his team's struggle to maintain pace and Trento's relentless effort.
The fourth quarter proved to be no less intense, with Trento managing to maintain their lead through the effective play of Toto Forray, who orchestrated key plays and contributed valuable points. Despite attempts from Virtus to close the gap, including decent performances from Pajola and some solid shooting from Belinelli, the team's efforts fell just short.
What stands out about this matchup is Trento’s ability to capitalize on Virtus's weaknesses, particularly their rebounding struggles. Trento dominated the boards with 39 rebounds compared to Virtus's 29, effectively limiting many of their opponent's second-chance opportunities. The switch to aggressive defensive tactics complemented by tactical offensive strategies enabled Trento to pull away and solidify their victory.
The victory not only served to confirm Trento's position at the top of the LBA table but also sent them forward with momentum as they head toward the midway point of the season, especially with their eyes set on playoff positions and finals appearances.
With this result, Trento remains assured of their playoff aspirations and cements their spot as favorites heading forward, all the more so after rebounding from their recent loss to Trapani. Despite the setback, Virtus will need to reassess their strategy moving forward, particularly as they vie for position among the league elite.
Dolomiti Energia Trento - Virtus Segafredo Bologna: 87-79 (20-23; 41-52; 66-57) includes players Ellis 11, Cale 17, Ford 13, Pecchia 1, Niang 7, Forray 7, Mawugbe 1, Lamb 21, Bayehe 6, and Zukauskas 3 under Coach Galbiati, with Virtus’s Cordinier, Belinelli, Pajola, Visconti, Hackett, Grazulis, Morgan, Polonara, Diouf, Zizic, Akele, and Tucker under Ivanovic.
Trento’s win not only marks another chapter in their impressive season but also sends a clear message to the rest of the league: they are not to be underestimated. Mark your calendars for their upcoming matches as excitement builds toward the next phase of the season!
