Italian derby between Niang and Assui in NCAA preseason

An all-Italian matchup took place during the NCAA preseason, as Elisee Assui and Saliou Niang faced each other in a closely contested game between Florida State and LSU, which ended in an 89-87 victory for the former Varese player’s team.

Assui contributed to his team’s win with 11 points and 5 rebounds in 20 minutes, shooting an impressive 4-for-5 from the field, including 2-for-3 from beyond the arc. On the other side, Niang made his LSU debut after receiving NCAA eligibility clearance, starting the game and recording 5 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists in 24 minutes, shooting 2-for-3 from two-point range.

The game remained competitive until the final moments, featuring two young Italian players beginning their journeys in American college basketball.