Derthona Basket held off Rostock Seawolves 86-83 in a high-scoring EuroCup Basketball contest on Thursday, sealing the win with late free throws after a tense fourth quarter. The result moves Derthona up the standings and leaves Rostock frustrated after a valiant road effort.

Match overview

Both teams came out firing, with Derthona taking a 27-24 lead after the first quarter behind efficient inside scoring. The pace remained high in the second, and Derthona carried a 48-44 advantage into halftime. Rostock opened the third quarter with a 10-2 run to tie the game, and the lead changed hands seven times in the second half. Derthona scored the final five points of the game, including three free throws in the last 20 seconds, to secure the win.

Key moments

• Rostock’s 10-2 run early in the third quarter erased a four-point halftime deficit.
• Derthona’s guard hit a step-back three-pointer with 2:15 left to give his team an 81-79 lead.
• Rostock tied the game at 83-83 on a put-back layup with 45 seconds remaining.
• Derthona made three of four free throws in the final 20 seconds, and Rostock’s game-tying three-pointer rimmed out at the buzzer.

Tactical story

Derthona’s pick-and-roll offense generated quality looks throughout, as they shot 52% from the field and 38% from three-point range. Rostock countered with transition baskets, scoring 18 fast-break points, but their 15 turnovers allowed Derthona to stay in control. Derthona also won the free-throw battle, making 20 of 24 attempts compared to Rostock’s 15 of 20. The German side’s aggressive defensive rebounding kept them close, but they could not get the final stop they needed.

Standout players

Derthona’s guard led the way with 24 points and 6 assists, consistently breaking down Rostock’s defense in the fourth quarter. Their forward added 16 points and 9 rebounds, providing a steady presence in the paint. Rostock’s guard scored 21 points, while their center recorded 18 points and 12 rebounds. Rostock’s bench contributed 19 points, but Derthona’s starters made the decisive plays down the stretch.

Season impact

The win improves Derthona Basket’s EuroCup Basketball record and gives them momentum ahead of a challenging road trip. Rostock Seawolves remain competitive but need to convert close games into victories to climb the standings. Derthona’s ability to execute in late-game situations has been a strength this season, while Rostock’s turnovers continue to cost them in tight contests. The two teams will meet again later in the campaign, with Rostock eager to avenge this narrow defeat.