Reggio Emilia

Jaylen Barford carried Reggio Emilia past Pardubice with a 23-point, 5-rebound display that required just 29 minutes. The guard shot 10 of 16 from the field, including 3 of 8 from three-point range, and did not reach the free-throw line in a dominant performance that underscored the hosts' control. Reggio Emilia's 82–65 victory in Group E left little suspense in the second half. Barford's efficient scoring — he committed only two turnovers across his 29 minutes — set the tone early and allowed the home side to build separation. Pardubice never found a rhythm to threaten a comeback. The 17-point margin reflected a thorough team effort, but Barford's night was the engine that made it possible.

Riccardo Rossato has been the engine room for Reggio Emilia lately—48.5 TIB Efficiency, 18.5 points and 2 assists per game in recent weeks—but he will face a test tonight against a Pardubice side that, while operating without the offensive punch Stampley showed last season (11.6 PPG), has proven capable of making life difficult for visiting guards in this competition. Stampley's numbers from 2025–26 sit well behind him now. The question is whether Pardubice's defensive shape can slow a player running hot through the middle of a legitimate European lineup. Rossato's ball-handling and decision-making at 2 APG suggest he is more than just a scorer; if Reggio Emilia can establish him early, they set the tone. Pardubice will need to force pace and complexity on the perimeter. A straight-up offensive duel favors the visitor. Tip-off is in three hours. Watch for Rossato's early touches and how Pardubice's perimeter defense responds.