Prato, Italy – The Union Basket Prato cemented its position atop the Serie C standings on Sunday, March 8, 2026, with a hard-fought 69-63 victory over rivals Dragons in a highly anticipated derby match. The win marks the Union’s eleventh consecutive victory and extends their lead to ten points over their city counterparts.
The game, played at the PalaToscanini in Prato, was a tense affair from the opening tip. Union started strong, led by Corsi and Antonini, building a seven-point advantage by the conclude of the first quarter, 19-12. The second period saw a response from the Dragons, with Smecca and Pacini contributing key baskets, but Union maintained a 37-30 lead at halftime.
The third quarter brought a surge from the Dragons, who briefly threatened to overturn the deficit. However, Union responded, regaining control and ultimately securing the win. “We started well with great energy, compensating for our absences as we often do,” said Union coach Tommaso Paoletti after the game. “In the third period, we lost some fluidity on offense and became disjointed in our defensive transitions. But in the final period, we were able to manage fouls and correct our mistakes, earning a deserved victory by making crucial plays.”
Antonini led all scorers with 28 points for Union, while Smecca paced the Dragons with 19. Pacini added 16 for the Dragons, while Corsi contributed 15 for the winning side. The final score reflected the competitive nature of the contest, with both teams battling fiercely throughout.
A Tactical Battle at the Toscanini
The derby was more than just a local rivalry; it was a clash between the league’s top two teams. Union, already considered favorites for the Serie C championship, entered the game on a ten-game winning streak. The Dragons, while facing recent challenges, remained a formidable opponent, especially on their home court. The game’s intensity was evident in the close scoreline and the physical play on both ends of the court.
Union’s success stemmed from their balanced attack and Antonini’s exceptional performance. The team’s ability to maintain composure under pressure, particularly in the face of the Dragons’ third-quarter push, proved decisive. Paoletti highlighted the team’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges, noting their success in managing fouls and executing key plays down the stretch.
Dragons coach Edoardo Banchelli acknowledged Union’s deserved victory, while likewise praising his team’s effort. “We lacked a bit of clarity in the final minutes and in the first two quarters in managing some possessions,” Banchelli said. “However, I must compliment my players, because despite the difficulties, we played a decent game defensively. Union won on merit, and we gave a good account of ourselves.”
Standings Implications and What’s Next
With the win, Union Basket Prato now boasts 42 points in the Serie C standings, extending their lead over the Dragons to ten points. This victory significantly strengthens their position as championship contenders. Union will gaze to continue their winning streak next Sunday when they host Cus Firenze.
Despite the loss, the Dragons remain in second place with 32 points, as Castelfiorentino also suffered a defeat. Banchelli’s team will need to rebound quickly, as they face a challenging road game against Sancat in Florence next Sunday. Maintaining their second-place position and preparing for the playoffs will be crucial for the Dragons in the coming weeks.
The officiating crew for the match consisted of Paolo Vumbaca of Florence and Marco Mattiello of Buggiano. The game’s partial scores were 12-19, 30-37, 50-49, ultimately culminating in the 69-63 final result.
For Union Basket Prato, the derby win represents a significant step towards achieving their championship aspirations. For the Dragons, it’s a setback, but one they will aim to overcome as they continue their pursuit of a playoff berth. The Serie C season is far from over, and the rivalry between these two Prato-based teams promises to remain intense.
DRAGONS: Marini 9, Catalano 2, Balducci 2, Staino 3, Marchesini, Paloscia 3, Pinelli, Plutino, Smecca 19, Goretti 9, Ndoye, Pacini 16.
UNION: Belardinelli, Mendico 9, Vignozzi 2, Bellandi, Bogani 5, Corsi 15, Falaschi, Chiti, Cavicchi 4, Antonini 28, Regoli 6, Gesualdi.
What are your thoughts on the outcome of the derby? Share your predictions for Union and Dragons’ upcoming matches in the comments below!
