Comeback Victory: Airtecnology Pallacanestro Messina Secures Semifinal Berth After Overcoming Nova Basket Savio

In a gritty display of resilience and tactical adjustment, Airtecnology Pallacanestro Messina fought back from an early deficit to defeat Nova Basket Savio Messina 84-72 on Sunday, April 12, 2026. The victory ensures the “giallorossi” advance to the semifinals, capping off a performance defined by a dominant second-half surge.

The game began as a struggle for the home side. Pallacanestro Messina found themselves trailing significantly after the first quarter, ending the opening period down 17-29. Nova Basket Savio controlled the early tempo, leaving the giallorossi searching for a rhythm in the opening ten minutes.

The tide began to turn in the second frame. Messina managed to stabilize their defense and match their opponents blow-for-blow, ending the second quarter with a 19-19 split. While this stopped the bleeding, the team still entered the locker room facing a double-digit gap.

The Third Quarter Surge

The definitive turning point occurred in the third quarter. In a stunning shift of momentum, Airtecnology Pallacanestro Messina completely shut down the Nova Basket Savio offense while igniting their own. The result was a commanding 26-9 run that erased the lead and put Messina firmly in control of the contest.

This surge was characterized by an increase in physical intensity and efficient scoring. Stéphant Njitap, the French-Spanish forward, played a pivotal role in this shift. Standing at 195 cm and weighing 88 kg, Njitap used his significant physicality to disrupt the opposition and provide the interior presence necessary to swing the game’s momentum.

Messina closed out the fourth quarter with a 22-15 advantage, maintaining their composure to seal the 84-72 win and secure their place in the semifinals.

By the Numbers: Standout Performers

The victory was a collective effort, but three players provided the bulk of the offensive firepower. The scoring distribution highlights a balanced attack that Nova Basket Savio could not contain once the comeback began:

• Briguglio: 25 points (Game-high)
• Mollica: 21 points
• Leanza: 20 points
• Njitap: 12 points

Beyond the primary scorers, the rotation managed by Coach G. Caselli saw contributions from Njitap’s supporting cast, including Picciolo, Squillaci, and Jakobsons, who each added 2 points to the final tally. The depth of the roster, including players like Salvatico, Rizzo, Bartolone, Lindermanis, and Martelli, allowed Messina to maintain the high intensity required for a comeback of this magnitude.

Roster Depth and Tactical Impact

The integration of key personnel has been central to Messina’s recent success. Stéphant Njitap, a class of 2002 athlete, has already proven his value as a determinante force, having previously helped the team secure victory in the DR2 tournament. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor provided the tactical flexibility Coach Caselli needed to dismantle the Savio defense in the second half.

the presence of playmaker Angelo Salvatico (class of 1999) adds a layer of veteran experience to the backcourt. Salvatico, who returned to the giallorossi after three seasons with Svincolati Milazzo, brings a level of technical quality and decision-making that is critical in high-stakes playoff scenarios.

For those unfamiliar with the local basketball landscape, the “giallorossi” nickname refers to the yellow and red colors of the club, a symbol of the city’s sporting identity that was on full display during Sunday’s comeback.

What’s Next for Pallacanestro Messina

With the win over Nova Basket Savio, Airtecnology Pallacanestro Messina now moves into the semifinals. The team will gaze to carry the momentum of this comeback—specifically the defensive intensity shown in the third quarter—into the next round of the competition.

Official details regarding the semifinal opponent and tip-off time are expected to be released by the league shortly. Fans can follow official updates via the team’s Facebook page or through local sports coverage at MessinaSportiva.it.

Do you think Messina’s defensive surge in the third quarter is sustainable for the semifinals? Share your thoughts in the comments below.