Reyer Venezia completed a remarkable comeback, defeating Una Hotels Reggio Emilia 83-78 after trailing for over 38 minutes of play. The visiting side turned the game around in the final 90 seconds, with Kyle Wiltjer scoring three crucial baskets to seal the victory.
Reggio Emilia looked in control for most of the game, led by Barford’s 22 points and Caupain’s 18. The home team built a commanding 14-point lead in the third quarter. However, Venezia’s defense stiffened in the final period, holding Reggio to just 14 points while orchestrating a 24-10 run to snatch the win.
The turning point came with 1:30 remaining, when Wiltjer took over offensively. The Canadian forward’s three consecutive baskets broke a game that had seen no ties since the opening tip. Venezia’s bench was instrumental, with Ky Bowman posting a +15 plus/minus in 21 minutes.
A Game of Halves: Reggio Emilia’s Early Command
Una Hotels established an early rhythm, outscoring Venezia 26-18 in the first quarter. Barford was the primary catalyst, scoring 15 of his 22 points in the opening 20 minutes. The home team’s energy on the offensive glass allowed them to build a quick lead, which they maintained through the second quarter.
By halftime, Reggio Emilia held a 46-39 advantage. The report highlighted the effectiveness of Caupain, who had 10 points in the first half and continued to provide a boost for the home side. Venezia, despite trailing, stayed within striking distance, thanks in part to Amedeo Tessitori’s 11 points, who shot 5-for-5 from the free-throw line.
The third quarter saw Reggio extend its lead to its maximum of 14 points. With a score of 58-44 midway through the period, it appeared the home team had secured the victory.
Venezia's Resilient Charge
Instead of folding, Reyer Venezia mounted a resilient charge. The team clamped down on defense and began to chip away at the deficit, paced by Bowman and De Nicolao. The visitors closed the third quarter on an 18-20 run, cutting the Reggio lead to just five points, 64-59, heading into the final stanza.
The final quarter was a tense battle. Reggio Emilia maintained its lead until the final moments, but Venezia’s suffocating defense prevented the home team from extending its advantage. The turning point came with just 90 seconds on the clock, when Wiltjer erupted for a flurry of three baskets that shifted the momentum decisively.
Wiltjer finished with 17 points, while Watson added 12 for the winners. The report noted that despite the loss, Una Hotels received strong contributions from Ogbeide, who scored 9 points and grabbed key rebounds.
Statistical Breakdown: Where the Game Was Won
First, the three-point shooting. Venezia connected on 10 of 32 attempts (31.3%), while Reggio Emilia struggled, making only 4 of 30 (13.3%). This disparity was critical in Venezia’s ability to stage its comeback.
Second, rebounding and second-chance points. Venezia won the overall rebounding battle, 42 to 39, and grabbed 15 offensive rebounds, generating 15 second-chance points. This gave Venezia the extra possessions needed to overcome the deficit.
Finally, free-throw efficiency. A more aggressive attack on the rim by Venezia resulted in 27 fouls drawn, compared to 19 by Reggio Emilia. This allowed Venezia to attempt 31 free throws, making 23, compared to Reggio’s 12-for-15. The free-throw line became a major battleground in the closing minutes.
Implications for the Standings
For Una Hotels Reggio Emilia, the loss leaves them with 4 points in the standings.
What Happened Next
Una Hotels Reggio Emilia will look to rebound when they host their next match at the PalaBigi. Reyer Venezia, meanwhile, will aim to build on this momentum with their upcoming fixture, both of which are part of the ongoing LBA season schedule.
FAQ
- Who was the top scorer for the winning team?
- Kyle Wiltjer led Reyer Venezia with 17 points, including the decisive three baskets in the final 90 seconds.
- How long did Reggio Emilia lead the game?
- Una Hotels Reggio Emilia held the lead for over 38 minutes of the 40-minute contest.
- What was the key statistic for Venezia’s comeback?
- Venezia’s 31.3% three-point shooting (10/32) was significantly better than Reggio’s 13.3% (4/30), helping them stage the late rally.
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