Olimpia Milano Hold Off Pallacanestro Trieste 83-79 in Lega Basket Serie A

Olimpia Milano survived a stern test from Pallacanestro Trieste, earning an 83-79 home win in Lega Basket Serie A on September 27, 2026. In a game that featured 12 lead changes, Milano's experience and late-game execution proved decisive.

Trieste delivered a fearless performance, pushing one of Italy's top clubs to the final possession. But Milano made the bigger plays in the closing minutes, securing a valuable early-season victory.

Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown

• First quarter: Milano 22-21
• Second quarter: Trieste 20-19 (halftime: 41-41)
• Third quarter: Milano 20-18 (end of third: 61-59)
• Fourth quarter: Milano 22-20 (final: 83-79)

The teams were tied at 41 at halftime and separated by just two points heading into the fourth. Neither side led by more than six in the second half, setting up a tense finish.

Key Moments

Trieste took a four-point lead midway through the third quarter after a quick 6-0 run, but Milano answered with a 7-0 surge of their own. The final quarter was a back-and-forth affair until Milano's defense produced a crucial stop with under a minute remaining. Trailing by two, Trieste had a look at a game-tying three, but the shot rimmed out, and Milano sealed the win at the free-throw line.

Offensive rebounding was a key factor. Milano generated several second-chance points in the fourth quarter, while Trieste's late turnovers allowed the hosts to control the final minute.

Tactical Story

Milano leaned on their size inside, attacking the paint and drawing fouls. When Trieste packed the defense, Milano's guards found open shooters on the perimeter. Defensively, Milano adjusted their pick-and-roll coverage in the second half, switching more screens and forcing Trieste into isolation plays.

Trieste's game plan was built on pace and three-point shooting. They moved the ball well and found open looks in transition, but their shooting cooled in the fourth quarter. Their defense was aggressive, generating steals, but Milano's poise under pressure made the difference.

Standout Performers and Standings Impact

Milano's veteran leaders stepped up in the clutch, combining for key baskets and assists down the stretch. Their center controlled the glass, while the bench provided energy in the first half. Trieste's guards were outstanding for long stretches, and their leading scorer kept the underdogs within striking distance until the final whistle.

The win keeps Olimpia Milano in the upper tier of the Lega Basket Serie A standings and avoids an early-season upset. Pallacanestro Trieste leaves with a morale-boosting performance despite the loss, showing they can compete with the league's elite. The result also gives Milano a head-to-head advantage should the teams meet again in the playoffs.