High level performance for Bertram Derthona in the semi-final of the Italian Cup: against GeVi Napoli the Lions lead the match for over 35 minutes, reaching a double-digit lead. The opponents had an impact on the match and, in overtime, prevailed in the final stages to reach the final.
Hot start for the Lions, who find the basket continuously and produce the first break of the match: Uglietti's two points make it 13-22 in the 10th minute. In the second period Napoli grows in defense and slows down the pace of Bertram, who however does well not to lose the thread and keep the distance unchanged with Ambrosin's triple at the end of the first half (28-36). In the third quarter Derthona escapes beyond the double-digit margin, is reached at 47 and extends, thanks to Cannon, up to 49-55. In the last quarter Napoli first closes the gap, then overtakes with Mayo and Monaldi. In the last seconds of the match Derthona, down 82-77, impacted the match with Mascolo's triple and two free throws from Fabi. Mayo's attempt to win fails: it's overtime.
New Juventus acceleration at the start of extra time (82-86), before overtaking GeVi with a 6-0. In the final, Napoli manages to maintain the minimum advantage they have accumulated and wins in a sprint 92-89. There remains a bitter taste in the mouth for the final result, but at the same time the awareness of having played a great match against a very high level opponent.
