Maltese youngster Samuel Deguara was a protagonist in a 96-88 quarter-final victory by Benetton against Stella Azzuirra Roma earlier this week.

The final stages of the national championships (Under 19) are being held this weekend in Bologna.

According to reports on the official Benetton website, Deguara was a protagonist, together with Alessandro Gentile. The latter obtained 23 points, while Deguara got 21.

The semi-final had to be played yesterday evening though till yesterday afternoon, it was not yet known who their opponents will be.

Earlier, Benetton had topped their group after clinching three victories on the trot.

They beat Moncalieri, Tiber Roma and Scavolini Spar Pesaro to win direct qualification for the quarter-final mentioned above.

Deguara’s performance against Scavolini (60-50) was hailed as fantastic as he obtained 20 points and dominated under the boards with 20 rebounds.