LIVORNO, Italy – March 28, 2026 – The Pallacanestro Don Bosco Livorno will host Virtus Certaldo at the PalaMacchia on Friday evening, seeking to extend their impressive five-game winning streak. The matchup presents a significant opportunity for the Don Bosco team, currently tied for fourth place in the Serie C Gold Toscana standings, to solidify their position as they push towards the playoffs. This Pallacanestro Don Bosco game is crucial as they aim to continue their ascent in the league.
The home team, coached by Giuseppe Di Manno, enters the contest brimming with confidence after a string of victories. Artioli, a key offensive threat for Don Bosco, and his teammates are looking to maintain their momentum against a Virtus Certaldo side battling to avoid relegation. The Serie C Gold Toscana competition is heating up as the season progresses, and every game carries significant weight.
Virtus Certaldo, a first-year team in the league, arrives in Livorno following a convincing win against the league’s bottom team, Rosignano. While their record suggests a challenging campaign, they’ve demonstrated resilience and a commitment to defense. According to available data, Virtus Certaldo currently concedes only 71.5 points per game, making them the fifth-best defensive team in the league. Though, their offensive struggles are evident, averaging just 66 points per game – the second-lowest in the tournament. This stark contrast in offensive and defensive capabilities will be a key factor in Friday’s game.
The offensive disparity is further highlighted by the fact that Don Bosco scores an average of eight more points per game than Certaldo. Crocetti’s team relies heavily on the scoring contributions of guard Giacomo Ricci, who averages 13 points per game, and forward Giulio Maltomini, who adds 11.3 points. Leonardo Mencherini (9.8 points) and Brazilian player Samuel Lucas Silveira (9.5 points) also contribute to the attack, but the team’s overall offensive output remains a concern. Understanding these key players is vital for anticipating the flow of the game.
Coach Di Manno acknowledged the challenge posed by Virtus Certaldo, emphasizing their improved form in the second half of the season. “In the return round, Certaldo has played many good games, putting even high-ranking teams in difficulty,” Di Manno said. “They are a team that arrives in Livorno looking for important salvation points, ready to give their all. We must be ready to play a very attentive game to continue our positive streak and our growth path, which is what interests us most.” The coach’s comments underscore the importance of preparation and focus for the Don Bosco squad.
The PalaMacchia, the home court for Pallacanestro Don Bosco, is expected to be filled with enthusiastic fans eager to support their team. The venue, with a capacity of 2,000, provides a lively atmosphere for the players. The Pallacanestro Don Bosco Livorno was founded in 2005, and has become a significant part of the local sporting community. The team represents one of three major basketball clubs in Livorno, alongside Pallacanestro Livorno and Libertas.
Don Bosco’s recent success can be attributed to a balanced roster and a strong team ethic. Their ability to consistently score points, coupled with a solid defensive foundation, has been instrumental in their climb up the standings. The team’s commitment to growth and improvement, as highlighted by Coach Di Manno, is a testament to their dedication and ambition. The basketball team’s performance is a source of pride for the city of Livorno.
For Virtus Certaldo, the game represents a crucial opportunity to gain valuable points in their fight against relegation. A win against a higher-ranked opponent would provide a significant boost to their morale and improve their chances of avoiding the playout round. Their defensive prowess will be tested against Don Bosco’s potent offense, and their ability to discover consistent scoring options will be key to their success. The Virtus Certaldo team is determined to fight for their survival in the league.
The game is scheduled for March 28, 2026, at 5:45 PM UTC. Fans can follow the live score updates on Sofascore (https://www.sofascore.com/basketball/team/don-bosco-livorno/1154981). The outcome of this match could have significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations and overall league standings.
Following Friday’s game, Pallacanestro Don Bosco will prepare for their next challenge, while Virtus Certaldo will continue their battle to secure their place in the Serie C Gold Toscana. The remainder of the season promises to be filled with exciting matchups and intense competition as teams vie for playoff spots and strive to avoid relegation. The Italian basketball league is known for its passionate fans and competitive spirit.
Related reading
