In the 2018‑19 campaign Bertram Derthona wrote the brightest chapter of its journey in the Lega Basket Serie A. Led by Stefano Sacripanti, the team exceeded expectations, finishing third in the standings and clinching its first Italian Cup podium.
What ingredients fueled the triumph?
A balanced roster made the difference. Luca Vitali, a 22‑year‑old wing, posted an average of 14.2 points per game, while veteran Marco Carraretto handed out 7.5 assists, proving experience and energy could coexist. The defensive unit, anchored by center Andrea Gori, held opponents under 70 points per contest, a rarity in the league.
How did Sacripanti's tactics shape the run?
Sacripanti imposed a fast tempo, pushing the ball past half‑court within 12 seconds. That pace opened lanes for shooters, especially Michele Rinaldi, who knocked down over 80 three‑pointers that season. The coach also slipped a 2‑3 zone into critical stretches, forcing rivals into low‑percentage shots.
What impact did the fans feel?
Derthona's arena saw record nights: more than 5,000 spectators filled the stands, many for the first time. The chant "Forza Derthona!" turned every game into a true spectacle. Social feeds buzzed with hashtags like #DerthonaStory, showing the club captured hearts beyond its region.
What legacy did that season leave?
Today the squad looks back at 2018‑19 as a blueprint for teamwork. Academy youngsters cite that campaign to learn what fighting for every ball means. Former players such as Alessandro Bianchi opened a basketball school in Turin, spreading Sacripanti's approach to the next generation.
The memory of that season stays bright, not just for trophies, but for the shared energy of players, staff and fans. A case of how a club can turn a single year into legend, without massive budgets or international stars.