Gema Montecatini pulled off a thrilling 72–70 victory over San Giobbe Chiusi in a Serie B Basket showdown that had fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer. Played on May 9, 2026, the match was a defensive battle that saw both teams trade leads throughout the fourth quarter, with Montecatini’s composure in the closing seconds proving decisive.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, it was clear that neither side intended to give an inch. San Giobbe Chiusi entered the game with a reputation for strong perimeter defense, and they lived up to it by forcing Montecatini into tough shots early. However, the home side slowly found its rhythm through efficient inside scoring and timely offensive rebounds. By halftime, the score was knotted at 34–34, setting the stage for a tense second half.

Key Moments

• Third-quarter surge: Montecatini opened the third period with an 8–2 run, taking a 42–36 lead. Chiusi answered back with a 12–4 spurt, reclaiming a 48–46 advantage heading into the final frame.
• Clutch shooting down the stretch: With the score tied at 68–68 and just under a minute remaining, Montecatini’s point guard drained a mid-range jumper to put his team ahead 70–68. Chiusi’s guard responded with a layup to tie it again at 70–70 with 18 seconds left.
• Game-winning defense: Montecatini set up a final play, but a Chiusi steal nearly ended their hopes. A quick foul sent Montecatini to the line with 4.2 seconds on the clock, where they calmly sank both free throws. Chiusi’s desperation three at the buzzer missed, sealing the 72–70 win.

Standout Players

For the winners, the frontcourt duo combined for 38 points and 16 rebounds, providing the necessary punch inside. San Giobbe Chiusi was led by a sharp-shooting guard who poured in 22 points, but his team’s 12 turnovers proved costly. The defensive effort from Montecatini’s bench, especially in the second quarter, helped keep the game within reach.

Season Impact

The victory pushed Gema Montecatini into a more comfortable position in the Serie B standings, while San Giobbe Chiusi missed a chance to climb into the playoff picture. Both teams showed why this league is known for its competitiveness, and this head-to-head will likely be remembered as one of the more tightly contested matches of the season.