La UNA Hotels Reggio Emilia opened their LBA Serie A campaign with a hard-fought 78-83 defeat against Dolomiti Energia Trentino at the PalaBigi. In front of 3,437 spectators, coach Priftis’s side fought back through a 24-point performance from Barford, but Trento managed to hold off the late surge to secure the road victory on opening night.
Trento holds off late surge at PalaBigi
Early visitor control sets the tone
The visitors established control early in the contest, constructing a 26-18 lead by the end of the first quarter, fueled largely by a 9-point burst from Bayehe. Reggio Emilia chipped away at the deficit as the game progressed, narrowing the gap to 43-46 at halftime and keeping the score deadlocked within a single possession at 61-62 heading into the final period.
Barford leads the charge in vain
Despite Barford’s game-high 24 points and steady offensive contributions from Rossato with 16 points, Thor with 10, and Severini with 10, the hosts could not complete the comeback down the stretch. Trento answered every run behind Olivari, who led the visitors with 23 points, alongside 13 points from Bigelow and 11 from Bayehe.
Foul line dominance and rebounds
Tactical execution proved decisive in the specialty stats. While Reggio Emilia connected on 15 of 32 two-point attempts and 12 of 36 from beyond the arc, Trento capitalized heavily at the foul line, converting 23 of 27 free throws compared to Reggio’s 9 of 14. Trento also edged the battle on the boards, grabbing 40 total rebounds against Reggio’s 34.
Reggio Emilia seeks a swift rebound
The defeat leaves Pallacanestro Reggiana looking to regroup following an eventful summer build-up as they prepare for the remainder of the domestic calendar. Fans and analysts can follow upcoming fixtures and official league announcements directly through the Lega Basket Serie A official portal.
