Mantovana secures DNA Gold promotion

Pallacanestro Mantovana secured promotion to the Italian DNA Gold after downing Casalpusterlengo in the decisive game of the finals series. The game and indeed the series went right down to the wire as Mantovana won 64-63 to book its place in the next tier of Italian Basketball, one step below the top flight Serie A.

The hosts got off to the perfect start with some solid offensive play in the first quarter. Mantovana looked tight from two point range while securing the defensive perimeter for an 18-12 lead after 10 minutes. The good work from the home team was quickly undone in the second frame as Casalpusterlengo asserted itself in the paint and won the period 13-17. Mantovana still held the lead at halftime though, with the scoreboard reading 31-29. The visitors continued to press in a low scoring third period, cutting the deficit by another point to make it a one point game after 30 minutes (44-43). The baskets flowed in an open fourth quarter as both teams sent twenty points through the net, a drawn quarter that was enough to see the home team win the title by one point.

Johndre Jefferson claimed a double-double 15 points and 12 rebounds in an impressive display for the winners. The American was followed by Mike Nardi with 14 points and Luca Pignatti with 13 points and 5 boards.

Alvin Young stood out for the defeated team with a game high 17 points, while he also added 6 rebounds and 3 dimes.