Venezia — Virtus Bologna: 86:93, Lega A

Virtus Bologna secured an 86-93 victory over Venezia at home in the Italian Lega A on October 11th. The result keeps the visitors top of the table with 23 wins from 28 games, while Venezia remain fourth with 19 victories. We had backed the away side to win, and that confidence proved justified.

Bologna's efficiency from the free-throw line proved decisive. They converted 17 of 21 attempts compared to Venezia's 6 for 6. The hosts dominated from distance, hitting 12 three-pointers against Bologna's 8, but couldn't overcome the difference at the stripe.

Rebounding was even across the board. Venezia grabbed 30 rebounds with 9 offensive boards, while Bologna collected 32 with the same offensive count. To be fair, the battle on the glass didn't sway the outcome one way or another.

Venezia's 11 turnovers cost them dearly against Bologna's disciplined 7. The visitors also managed 5 steals compared to the hosts' 4, disrupting passing lanes when it mattered. And here's the thing — those extra possessions made all the difference in a close game.

Bologna's recent run includes wins over Bayern and Roma, while Venezia have mixed results with losses to Cluj-Napoca and Milano. By then, the gap between the two sides was becoming clearer.

The result extends Bologna's lead at the summit and leaves Venezia four points behind the leaders. With five defeats already on their record, the visitors' cushion is growing.