Preview: Reyer Venezia Looks to Avenge Recent Losses at League-Leading Schio

SCHIO, Italy (Interstat) — The top two teams in Italy’s women’s professional A2 league are set for a pivotal third meeting in less than a month Wednesday when Reyer Venezia visits Famila Wuber Schio.

Schio (27-5), the league leader, has won both previous matchups this season, including a narrow 68-66 road victory on Feb. 18. The home team also won 80-69 in Venezia on Feb. 1. Overall, Schio has won the last three head-to-head meetings dating to November.

The hosts enter on a five-game winning streak across all competitions following a 65-57 road win at Derthona on Saturday. Center Jessica Shepard has been dominant, averaging 18.6 points and 9.4 rebounds over her last five games. She posted 22 points and 14 rebounds against Derthona and had 16 points and seven rebounds in the win over Venezia earlier this month.

Venezia (25-10), second in the standings, is coming off a 72-57 home win against Broni on Sunday. Guard Mariella Santucci, a key player for the visitors, contributed 10 points and five assists in that victory. Her production will be critical; in the two losses to Schio this season, she was held to a combined six points.

Schio’s defense, which has held opponents under 70 points in four of its last five games, will aim to contain a Venezia offense that has been inconsistent of late. Venezia’s recent form includes a 2-2 record in its last four A2 contests.

The matchup could have significant implications for the league standings as the season enters its final stages. Following this game, Schio hosts San Giovanni on March 1, while Venezia’s next league fixture is at San Martino on March 7.

Tip-off is scheduled for Wednesday evening at Palasport Livio Romare in Schio.