Napoli Basket edged Derthona Basket 92-90 in a thrilling Lega Basket Serie A contest on 25 October 2026. In a game that featured 14 lead changes and several clutch shots in the final minutes, Napoli held their nerve down the stretch to secure a narrow road victory.

Match overview

The first quarter was a shootout, with both teams finding rhythm early. Derthona led 23-24 after the opening period, and the teams continued to trade blows in the second. Napoli edged ahead 47-44 at halftime, thanks to efficient three-point shooting and a strong showing on the offensive glass. The third quarter remained tightly contested, with Derthona outscoring Napoli 23-21 to tie the game at 68-68 heading into the final period.

The fourth quarter was a tense, back-and-forth affair. Neither team led by more than five points, and the game came down to the final possession. With Napoli leading 92-90 and seconds remaining, Derthona got a good look from three, but the shot rimmed out, allowing Napoli to escape with the win.

Quarter scores

• Q1: Derthona Basket 23-24 Napoli Basket
• Q2: 21-23
• Q3: 23-21
• Q4: 23-24
• Final: Derthona Basket 90-92 Napoli Basket

Key moments

The final two minutes produced a sequence worthy of a classic. With the score tied at 86-86, Napoli’s Nate Carter hit a tough step-back jumper to give his team the lead. Derthona answered with a driving layup from Alessandro Conti to tie it again. On the next possession, Carter drew a foul and made both free throws, putting Napoli up 90-88. Derthona had a chance to tie, but a missed jumper led to a fast-break dunk for Napoli’s Marco Bellini, making it 92-88. A late Derthona three cut it to two, but time ran out.

Earlier, the third quarter had seen Derthona take a brief five-point lead, but Napoli responded with a 9-2 run to regain control. The game’s momentum shifted repeatedly, but Napoli’s composure in the final minute proved decisive.

Tactical story

Napoli Basket’s offense was built around pick-and-roll actions and quick ball movement, which allowed them to exploit Derthona’s switching defense. They shot the ball well from beyond the arc and attacked the offensive glass, creating extra possessions. Defensively, Napoli focused on limiting Derthona’s transition game and forcing them into contested jumpers. While Derthona shot a respectable percentage, they were hurt by 12 turnovers and a few costly defensive lapses in the final quarter.

Derthona’s game plan centered on inside scoring and driving kick-outs. They were effective for long stretches, particularly when Alessandro Conti attacked the rim. However, they struggled to contain Napoli’s guards in isolation late in the game, and their three-point defense abandoned them at crucial moments.

Standout players

Nate Carter was the standout for Napoli Basket, finishing with 28 points, including several clutch baskets in the fourth quarter. Marco Bellini added 17 points and nine rebounds, while point guard Luca Ferrara contributed 12 points and eight assists. Napoli’s bench also provided a spark, particularly in the second quarter.

For Derthona Basket, Alessandro Conti led all scorers with 26 points and seven assists. Davide Romano added 18 points and 10 rebounds, dominating the paint for long stretches. Despite their strong individual performances, Derthona could not make the final defensive stop they needed.

Standings and season impact

The win is a significant confidence boost for Napoli Basket in the Lega Basket Serie A standings and demonstrates their ability to close out tight road games. For Derthona Basket, the loss is a frustrating one, as they competed well for 40 minutes but fell just short. Both teams will look to build on their performances as the Serie A season continues, but Napoli will savor a hard-fought victory that could prove valuable in the race for playoff positioning.