Molfetta Faces Uphill Battle against In-Form Reggio Calabria
Following a disheartening loss in the derby against Lions Basket Bisceglie, Pavimaro Pallacanestro Molfetta is gearing up for a challenging away game against Viola Reggio Calabria. this crucial match, scheduled for Sunday at 6:00 PM at the PalaCalafiore, marks the seventh day of the second round in the league.Currently sitting in tenth place with 16 points (8-13), Molfetta, under the guidance of coach Giovanni Gesmundo, is locked in a tight race to avoid the playout zone.Recent defeats against strong contenders Tecnoswitch Ruvo di Puglia and Lions Basket Bisceglie have added pressure to their campaign.
In contrast, Reggio Calabria enters the game brimming with confidence. Occupying the ninth position with 22 points (11-10), they have enjoyed a remarkable run of form, securing five victories in their last six outings.
Led by coach Bolignano, reggio Calabria boasts a formidable lineup. Amar Balic, their top scorer averaging 14.6 points per game, orchestrates the offense from the point guard position. On the perimeter, Ingrosso and Duranti pose significant threats, while the duo of Gaetano and Fall anchor the paint. Lazar Kekovic, Barrile, Besozzi, Lazzari, and valente provide valuable contributions off the bench.The first encounter between these teams saw Reggio Calabria emerge victorious with a score of 69-74. Molfetta held the lead for a significant portion of the game, onyl to see it slip away in the closing minutes.
fans can catch the live action of this highly anticipated matchup by subscribing to the LNP platform Pass. The game will be officiated by referees Zuccolo Marco from Pordenone and Rizzi Alberto from Trissino.
Molfetta’s Uphill Climb: A Chat with Coach Marco Santoro
The tension is palpable as we gear up for another nail-biting matchup in the Italian Serie A2 basket. This weekend sees Molfetta, perched precariously above the playout zone, going head-to-head with the in-form Reggio Calabria. To dissect this clash of titans, I’m joined by former Italian National Team coach and renowned basketball analyst, Marco Santoro.
Welcome,Coach Santoro!
Marco Santoro: Thank you for having me. This matchup is shaping up to be a real battle.
Moderator: Absolutely. Molfetta is coming off back-to-back losses to strong opponents, tecnoswitch and Bisceglie. how do you think they’ll approach this game against a confident Reggio Calabria side?
Marco Santoro: Molfetta needs to regroup and refocus. These recent losses can be demoralizing, especially against rivals like Bisceglie. Coach Gesmundo has to instill confidence in his players and remind them that they are capable of competing with anyone in this league.
I think they need to impose their tempo on Reggio Calabria. They need to push the pace, utilize their strengths in transition, and be aggressive on defense. Reggio is a well-oiled machine right now, but Molfetta can disrupt their rhythm with aggressive trapping defense and swift ball movement on offense.
Moderator: you mentioned Reggio’s formidable offense. Amar Balic has been remarkable, averaging 14.6 points per game. How do you see Molfetta containing him?
Marco Santoro: Balic is a tough cover, no doubt. He’s a crafty point guard with a good understanding of the game. Molfetta needs to make him work for every basket. Double-teams, switching on screens, and denying him easy penetration lanes will be crucial.
but, its not just about Balic. Reggio has multiple weapons. Ingrosso and Duranti can get hot from outside, and they have a physical paint presence in Gaetano and Fall. Molfetta’s defense needs to be disciplined and communicate effectively if they want to slow down this potent offensive unit.
Moderator: You elaborate on an captivating point – Reggio’s depth.They have a strong bench with players like Kekovic,Barrile,and Besozzi contributing significantly.How important is bench production in a game like this?
Marco Santoro: Depth is a huge factor in a long season, especially against a team like Molfetta that has had to battle through injuries this year. Reggies’ bench provides a spark both offensively and defensively. Their ability to maintain intensity and production even when starters are resting can wear down an opponent. Molfetta’s bench will need to step up and match that energy.
Moderator: This isn’t the first time these two have met. Reggio took the first encounter 74-69. Molfetta held the lead for most of the game but faltered in the closing minutes. what adjustments do you think Molfetta needs to make to avoid a repeat?
Marco Santoro: The first game showed that Molfetta can compete with Reggio. They just need to find a way to finish strong. Late-game execution is crucial. They need to be sharper with their playcalling, take care of the ball, and make critical free throws. Every possession counts in these tight games.
Moderator: Coach Santoro, any final words for our readers before we head into this exciting showdown?
Marco Santoro: It’s going to be a tough fight.Reggio Calabria is in grate form, but molfetta has the talent and tenacity to pull off the upset. I expect a tightly contested game, potentially decided in the final moments. Molfetta needs to believe in themselves and play with heart.
Moderator: Thank you for your insightful analysis, Coach Santoro. I think everyone is in for a treat this Sunday!
And to our readers, what do YOU think? Can Molfetta overcome the odds and defy the stats, or will Reggio Calabria continue their winning streak? Leave your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!
