Virtus Bologna: Three decisive challenges for the championship lead

Three days left in the regular season. The Virtus is first – jointly with Trapani, beaten on the first day of championship – and arbiters of their own destiny. With a situation like this – five teams in four points, the others being Trento, Brescia and Olimpia Milano – the boys of Dusko Ivanovic they can finish between first and fifth place. Should they finish with a winning streak – Sunday at home with Varese, then the subsequent matches with Scafati and Trapani – the Bianconeri would be certain of the lead, with all that that entails. Namely, having the possibility of always playing the tiebreaker at home.

Meanwhile, the match on Easter Eve, once again highlighted a cohesive group, which seems to have taken the path chosen by the Montenegrin coach. That of a defense brought to maximum intensity, with greater attention in attack, to limit the number of lost balls.

It is true that Pistoia is last in the standings and is the main candidate for relegation, but the Virtus, in Tuscany, had a specific merit. Having immediately raised his voice, shown his muscles, rendering the Tuscans harmless, or almost. Virtus, moreover, he did it by granting an evening of absolute relaxation to Toko Shengelia, who would then be the leader, not even too hidden, to whom his companions rely when difficulties arise.

Those who grow, on the contrary, are Ante Zizic. The Croatian center, who in his last outings has chosen to play with a mask to protect his nasal septum, is becoming not only a useful element for the house – after all, the Virtus he waited a long time – but also a factor. With an experienced center, Diouf obviously has other characteristics, including the speed of his feet that allows him to be more brilliant in defense, the Virtus he gains. Perhaps it is also for this reason that one of the possible rivals in the championship perspective (Trapani) is thinking of closing with another pivot.

Having said that the match against Varese on Sunday will bring the Black V back to Segafredo Arena, the last knot would remain to be untied. Which is the one relating to Justin Holiday: whose contract expires on April 30 and whose adventure in Bologna could end on Sunday evening.

If the Virtus if he were to find another element to insert, it would make sense to dismiss Holiday. But in the absence of alternatives, considering that the playoffs will be played every two days, having an extra player – even if not a regular starter – would have more than one justification.