Virtus Bologna produced a statement performance on Friday, January 2, defeating EA7 Emporio Armani Milan 97-85 at the Virtus Arena in a high-intensity Derby d’Italia.
The home side overturned a 15-point second-quarter deficit and leaned on perimeter efficiency, defensive pressure, and depth to secure its fourth consecutive EuroLeague win over its long-time domestic rival.
Milan appeared in control midway through the second quarter after building a 38-23 lead, dictating tempo and scoring efficiently inside. That momentum shifted sharply once Daniel Hackett entered the game and ignited both ends of the floor.
Virtus responded with a decisive 16-1 run, fueled by increased ball movement and defensive activity, which also energized the sold-out Bologna crowd. The surge erased the deficit and reset the game before halftime.
The teams went into the break tied at 47-47, but the third quarter belonged to the hosts. Virtus raised its defensive intensity and found consistent scoring from the perimeter to open a double-digit cushion.
Matt Morgan led all scorers with 22 points, shooting 5-of-8 from three-point range while also handing out seven assists. His ability to stretch the floor punished Milan’s rotations and opened space for teammates.
Derrick Alston Jr. added 20 points and continued his recent shooting consistency, knocking down 4-of-5 attempts from deep. He has now hit multiple three-pointers in eight straight games.
Virtus finished the night 12-of-24 from beyond the arc, while its defensive pressure limited Milan to 6-of-25 from long range. That contrast proved decisive over 40 minutes.
Despite missing injured guards Carsen Edwards and Alen Smailagic, Bologna received balanced contributions across the lineup. Saliou Niang recorded 11 points and eight rebounds, Karim Jallow posted 12 points and five boards, and Luca Vildoza scored 10.
Hackett added eight points off the bench, including timely three-pointers that helped Virtus maintain separation in the fourth quarter. The hosts pushed the margin to 89-74 in the closing minutes, effectively sealing the outcome.
Milan was led by Josh Nebo with 15 points and Zach LeDay with 14.
The result leaves both Italian clubs at 9-10 in the EuroLeague standings. Virtus will host Zalgiris Kaunas next Tuesday, while Milan travels to face Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens.
