Virtus Segafreddo bologna - Napoli
Italy - Serie A, Round 18
28/01/2024 - 18;15 CET
Virtus Bologna will host Napoli at the Segafredo Arena on Sunday at 6:15 PM. They are looking to bounce back after their defeat in Turkey against Fenerbahce. However, it is widely acknowledged that the domestic league is a walk in the park compared to the EuroLeague. During a rough patch, Virtus faced Brindisi and dominated the game, despite the fact that the team from Naples is stronger than the one from Puglia, with the Bolognese team scoring many points. The key factor is that both teams have the potential to score heavily. But what matters most in making predictions is accessing information, especially for teams involved in Cup competitions, due to the lineup changes that can shift the balance. Shengelia and Dobric are still sidelined, with no one willing to risk them as Partizan Belgrade is up next week. On the other hand, Belinelli will return, who, as I had previously mentioned, was left out of the trip to Turkey because he had just become a father. This was great news, but it sparked some controversy in the city, despite the congratulations he received for his fatherhood and the impressive season he's having. His reintroduction is crucial, given that he averages 13.3 points per game. Adding to this, Shengelia's absence, who scores 15.6 points, makes a significant difference. Jordan Mickey, who has been out for a month due to injury and scores 10.5 points, will also be on the scoresheet. Therefore, Virtus averages 86.3 points and Napoli 85.9: you can do the math. But bear in mind that betting on under and over isn’t done with a calculator. Additionally, there's a gentleman in Napoli's jersey (who also played for Virtus) named Jacob Pullen. He scored 20 points against Brindisi and often receives solid support from Zubcic, Ennis, and Sokolowsi. Pullen is the go-to man in crucial moments, as evidenced by the last game where he scored five decisive points. Overall, Zubcic averages 16.6 points, and Pullen 14.9, but be assured that Pullen will have the ball in his hands for the last shot. However, Napoli isn't just about these players; it's a scoring machine. They are facing a team with similar offensive prowess but stronger in defense and, overall, built for the EuroLeague.