Asolo, September 03 –
Virtus Bologna’s training camp ended with their first pre-season friendly against Verona. The Italian champions made their first appearance at Pala Asolo, still without the Italian players who are busy with the national team at Eurobasket. Carsen Edwards is resting as he continues his individual programme, partially returning to train with the team.
In the regular-time match, Virtus’ starting five was Taylor, Morgan, Canka, Alston Jr. and Smailagic. Canka scored the first basket, while Matt Morgan was the first to reach double figures, already halfway through the second quarter. Virtus tried to extend its lead with Alston Jr. and Jallow, but Verona, in its fifth friendly of the season, responded and at half-time the Bianconeri’s lead was 2 points. Alston Jr. continued the second half as he had finished the first and joined Morgan in double figures. Virtus reached +11 in the third quarter, but Verona responded and never gave up. Morgan picked up the pace, scoring 8-0, before Vildoza scored 5 points in a row to close out the game. Virtus’ first outing of the season ended 87-82.
Virtus Bologna vs Scaligera Basket Verona 87-82
(17-16, 36-34, 57-56)
VIRTUS: Vildoza 7, Smailagic 9, Taylor, Baiocchi, Alston Jr. 22, Canka 4, Hackett 5, Menalo, Morgan 23, McCormack 5, Jallow 12. Coach Ivanovic
VERONA: Baldi Rossi 7, Pittana ne, Mecenero ne, Poser 3, Bolpin 4, Ambrosin 19, Zampini 11, Johnson 2, McGee 15, Monaldi 4, Serpilli 12, Spanghero 5. Coach. Cavina
