Vicenza secured a hard-fought 78-76 victory over Andrea Costa Imola on Sunday, October 26, 2026, in Serie B Basket play. The home side led for most of the game but had to survive a late surge from Imola, eventually clinching the win with a decisive basket in the final seconds. The result keeps Vicenza in the early playoff conversation and extends Imola’s inconsistent start to the season.

Match Overview

Vicenza came out with energy, using a stifling zone defense to disrupt Imola’s half-court offense. The first quarter ended 20-18 in favor of the hosts, with Vicenza’s guards finding gaps in Imola’s perimeter defense. The second quarter was a seesaw battle, as Imola’s Francesco Rossi heated up from mid-range, helping his team take a 38-39 lead into the locker room. Vicenza regained control in the third, outscoring Imola 18-17 to take a 56-55 edge into the final period. The fourth quarter was a nail-biter, with five lead changes in the last five minutes.

Key Moments

With the score tied at 76 and 12 seconds remaining, Vicenza’s Luca Marinelli dribbled off a screen and hit a tough fadeaway jumper from the elbow to put his team ahead 78-76. Imola called timeout and designed a play for a corner three, but the attempt was contested and fell short, allowing Vicenza to secure the rebound and run out the clock. The defensive possession before Marinelli’s heroics was equally crucial, as Vicenza forced Imola into a shot-clock violation with 28 seconds left.

Tactical Story

Vicenza’s zone defense bothered Imola throughout the first half, limiting them to 38 points on 39% shooting. Imola adjusted in the third quarter by attacking the middle with dribble penetration, but Vicenza’s rotations were sharp, and they forced 15 turnovers for the game. On offense, Vicenza relied on Marinelli’s shot creation and the inside presence of center Giacomo Rizzi, who scored 14 points on 6-of-8 shooting. Imola won the rebounding battle 38-34 but shot just 6-of-24 from three-point range, a key factor in the loss.

Standout Performers

• Luca Marinelli (Vicenza): 22 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds, including the game-winning jumper.
• Francesco Rossi (Imola): 20 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals, keeping his team in the game.
• Giacomo Rizzi (Vicenza): 14 points, 9 rebounds, 2 blocks, dominating the paint.
• Simone Tavoni (Imola): 12 points, 7 assists, but committed 4 turnovers.

Season Impact

Vicenza improves to a winning record in Serie B Basket and strengthens their position in the standings. The win is a confidence booster, especially with a tough road stretch coming up. Andrea Costa Imola, meanwhile, remains in the lower half of the table and will need to find consistency on the offensive end. Their next game offers a chance to bounce back, but the team must address their three-point shooting woes and late-game execution.