Tezenis Verona held off Pallacanestro Cantù 88–86 in a thrilling Club Friendship clash on 10 September 2026, grinding out a narrow home victory that will encourage the Italian side during the preseason.

Verona edge Cantù in an Italian classic

Two historic names in Italian basketball met in a friendly with genuine competitive edge. Tezenis Verona, looking to build confidence ahead of the new season, produced a composed home display and managed to withstand a fierce late rally from Pallacanestro Cantù. The scoreline remained tight throughout, but Verona’s ability to make decisive plays down the stretch was the difference.

First half: Verona control the tempo

Verona started well, using crisp ball movement to break Cantù’s initial pressure. Their inside-out offense created open perimeter looks, and a productive second quarter gave the home side a working margin at halftime. Cantù, however, showed the resilience expected of a club with their pedigree, chopping away at the deficit and leaning on their physical defensive sets to stay in contention.

Second half: Cantù fight back but Verona hold on

The visitors stormed out after the break, taking their first lead of the game midway through the third period. The see-saw nature of the fourth quarter kept fans on edge, with Cantù twice pulling even inside the final two minutes. Verona responded each time, however, converting key buckets and then blocking a potential go-ahead attempt on the final possession to seal a memorable 88–86 win.

Standout performers

• Verona’s backcourt controlled the game at both ends, combining for several momentum-shifting steals in the second half.
• Cantù’s forwards found success in transition, stretching the defense and turning defensive stops into quick scores.
• Verona’s bench provided crucial energy in the closing stages, helping refresh the rotation when fatigue became a factor.

Preseason significance

Although friendly tournaments like Club Friendship do not count toward league standings, they provide vital information for coaches. For Tezenis Verona, beating a team with Cantù’s pedigree offers a clear morale boost and validates much of the tactical work done in training. Cantù, meanwhile, will value the test despite the defeat; facing a determined opponent in a hostile atmosphere is exactly the kind of challenge needed to prepare for competitive basketball.