Amedeo Della Valle delivered an unforgettable debut for Openjobmetis Varese, sinking a dramatic free throw with just 0.7 seconds remaining on the clock to secure a narrow 85-84 victory over Pallacanestro Trieste in Lega Basket Serie A action. Reported by La Prealpina, the tense finish at PalaWhirlpool (Masnago) pushed Varese’s record forward despite a performance filled with missed opportunities, 18 turnovers, and 10 missed free throws.
How Della Valle Secured the Dramatic Finish
Della Valle entered the contest from the bench after recovering from a knee issue, logging 22 minutes of floor time. While his overall shooting numbers showed early-season rust at 3-of-9 from the field and 3-of-7 from the charity stripe for 11 total points, his court vision yielded five vital assists that eased Varese’s reliance on guard Jaylen Hale, according to Sky Sport. Trieste capitalized through LJ Jones, who knocked down a clutch three-pointer to tie the game at 84-84 with 9.4 seconds remaining. On the ensuing chaotic final possession, Della Valle drove and drew a foul from Francesco De Angeli with less than a second left. He missed the first free throw, converted the second, and intentionally missed the third as time expired, sealing the 85-84 triumph.
Statistical Contrast and Outlets Breakdown
While Varese claimed the two points in the standings, comprehensive game data highlighted significant struggles for both squads from beyond the arc. Varese shot 11-of-32 from three-point range, while Trieste struggled even more, finishing 6-of-32 from distance, as detailed in the official box score. Il Piccolo reported that Colbey Ross put on a masterclass for the visitors, racking up 25 points, drawing 11 fouls, and posting a game-high 38 evaluation before injuries disrupted Trieste’s rotation late in the fourth quarter, including a hard collision involving Sean McDermott.
Rotations and Roster Challenges Facing Varese
Head coach Ioannis Kastritis utilized a revolving-door rotation in the first half before tightening his combinations after the intermission, a tactical shift that increased Varese’s offensive rhythm and helped push the lead to 13 points in the third period. Varese continues to operate without floor general Nico McDowell-White, whose ongoing absence due to injury is projected to last through the remainder of the month. This absence forces the team to navigate an arduous stretch without their primary playmaker, including upcoming domestic and continental fixtures.
Upcoming Fixtures and European Schedule
With two consecutive league wins now secured, Varese turns its immediate attention to international competition. The club prepares to host its Basketball Champions League (BCL) home opener on Tuesday, October 13, welcoming Greek side Peristeri Athens to Masnago. Tip-off times and local arena details remain locked for the European group stage fixture, providing Kastritis’s squad an opportunity to build consistency as they adjust to their new personnel.
