Overview
- Italy began EuroBasket with a 66-75 defeat to Greece, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 31 points, while Simone Fontecchio struggled at 1/11 from three for four points.
- Georgia awaits today at 14:00 CEST and Bosnia on Sunday at 20:30, fixtures described as pivotal given that four of six teams advance and seeding will determine knockout pairings.
- Georgia’s threat is underscored by its 83-69 win over Spain and a physical frontcourt featuring Sandro Mamukelashvili, Goga Bitadze and Tornik’e Shengelia.
- Nicolò Melli (15 points) and debutant Saliou Niang (11) were Italy’s bright spots; Fontecchio called his display a bad night and teammates emphasized resetting for the back-to-back games.
- Italy’s women face Germany in the World Championship round of 16 in Bangkok at 12:00 CEST, entering on a 32-match winning streak with bookmakers installing Julio Velasco’s team as clear favorites.