Rimini, Italy – In a thrilling finish at the Palasport Flaminio, Dole Basket Rimini secured a dramatic 85-86 victory over Valtur Brindisi in the semifinals of the Coppa Italia LNP Vintage Wild West 2026. The game, decided by a last-second three-pointer from captain Giovanni Tomassini, sends Rimini to the final where they will face Tezenis Verona on Sunday, March 15th.
The victory marks a significant achievement for Dole Rimini, who will now play for the championship in front of their home crowd. The atmosphere inside the Flaminio arena was electric as Tomassini’s shot fell through the net, sending the Rimini faithful into a frenzy. This represents a historic moment for the club, reaching the final of the Coppa Italia for the first time in recent memory.
Tomassini’s Heroics Seal the Win
With just four seconds remaining and the score tied at 85-85, Tomassini rose up from beyond the arc and delivered the game-winning shot. The play capped off a back-and-forth fourth quarter that saw multiple lead changes and intense defensive pressure from both teams. Tomassini, demonstrating composure under immense pressure, secured the win for his team.
Pierpaolo Marini led the scoring for Dole Rimini with 20 points, while Sankare contributed 10, Denegri added 11, and Simioni finished with 13. For Valtur Brindisi, Copeland led the way with 22 points, followed by Cinciarini with 13 and Esposito with 21.
A Game of Runs and Momentum Shifts
The game began with a cautious start, as both teams felt each other out in the opening minutes. Dole Rimini drew first blood with a basket from Leardini, but Brindisi quickly responded. The first quarter saw several lead changes, with Brindisi eventually taking a 21-13 advantage thanks to a strong finish fueled by Francis and Mouaha. Brindisi established an early rhythm, capitalizing on their size and physicality.
The second quarter saw Brindisi extend their lead, reaching a double-digit advantage. However, Dole Rimini refused to back down, mounting a spirited comeback led by Camara, Marini, and Ogden. A key moment in the quarter was a brief injury scare for Tomassini, who slipped on a wet spot on the court. Despite the setback, Rimini managed to close the gap, ending the first half tied at 35-35. Esposito’s performance was crucial for Brindisi in the first half, scoring 12 points.
The third quarter witnessed a flurry of scoring from both sides. Brindisi came out strong, going on a 9-0 run, but Dole Rimini answered with an equally impressive run of their own, sparked by a three-pointer from Alipiev and strong play from Sankare. Rimini seized the momentum, building a seven-point lead (59-66) heading into the final quarter. The momentum swings were a defining characteristic of the contest.
The fourth quarter was a nail-biter, with both teams trading baskets and neither able to establish a comfortable lead. Brindisi fought back, tying the game at 68-68 and then briefly taking the lead. However, Rimini responded with a 6-0 run, only to see Brindisi answer with a pair of three-pointers. With under two minutes remaining, the score was tied at 81-81, setting the stage for Tomassini’s dramatic game-winner. Radonjic had a chance to put Brindisi ahead with a free throw, making it 85-83, but Tomassini’s clutch shot sealed the victory for Dole Rimini.
Looking Ahead to the Final
Dole Rimini will now face Tezenis Verona in the Coppa Italia final on Sunday, March 15th, at 7:45 PM local time (CET). The game will be played at the Palasport Flaminio in Rimini, giving the home team a significant advantage. Tezenis Verona advanced to the final after defeating Victoria Libertas Pesaro 95-88 in the other semifinal matchup.
Tickets for the final are available for purchase until Sunday, March 15th, at 2:00 PM CET on Ticketone. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets quickly to witness what promises to be an exciting championship game.
This victory is a testament to the resilience and determination of Dole Rimini, who have overcome adversity to reach the final. The team will look to capitalize on their home-court advantage and secure their first Coppa Italia title.
Next Up: Dole Basket Rimini vs. Tezenis Verona, Coppa Italia Final, Sunday, March 15th, 7:45 PM CET, Palasport Flaminio, Rimini.
What are your thoughts on Dole Rimini’s stunning victory? Share your predictions for the final in the comments below!
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