Italy immediately bounced back and secured their first Eurobasket victory. In Limassol, Pozzecco's Azzurri defeated Georgia 78-62, a victory that restored momentum and confidence after a disappointing debut against Greece. The second half of the match proved decisive, as Spissu and his teammates revved up the pace, turning a tight game into a resounding victory.
The first quarter showed signs of improvement, with solid defense and Niang immediately leading the way from the arc, giving the team an initial 10-point lead. Italy, however, failed to extend their lead and in the second period they lost their way due to turnovers and shooting errors , suffering the comeback of the Bitadze-Mamukelashvili duo. At halftime, the score was 32-32, with the winds of change seemingly shifting in Georgia's favor.
After the long break, however, the Azzurri shifted gears. Niang's impact—once again surprising for his maturity and energy—provided a boost, Fontecchio regained his composure, and Spissu's powerful basket sealed the lead . From then on, it was a crescendo: quick transitions, aggressive defense, and a rousing 29-6 run between the end of the third and the beginning of the fourth quarter that carved out the decisive gap.
In the final minutes, Italy handled the game without any problems, finding further answers from Diouf under the basket and finishing with a reassuring lead. It was a performance that revitalizes their ambitions and highlights the impact of the young players called upon to make the difference. Tomorrow evening, again in Limassol (8:30 PM), a new test awaits the Azzurri: Bosnia, led by former Dinamo player Halilovic .
Italy-Georgia 78-62
Italy: Gallinari, Melli 8, Fontecchio 14, Thompson 6, Ricci 8, Spagnolo 5, Procida ne, Niang 15, Spissu 3, Diouf 13, Akele, Pajola 6. Coach Pozzecco
Georgia : Andronikashvili 3, Mamukelashvili 13, Jintcharadze, Burjanadze 7, Shermadini, Sanadze 8, Korsantia ne, Phevadze ne, Shengelia, Bitadze 22, Baldwin 9, Ochkhikidze. Coach Dzikic
Partials : 18-10; 32-32; 53-47
