MUNICH (Germany) - It would be impossible to write about the history of FIBA EuroBasket, and not pay special attention to Italy. Azzurri have taken the hot-and-cold approach to a whole new level.

The team picked up a gold and a pair of silver medals in the 1990s, and much was expected as the 2000s started with Italy as the reigning FIBA EuroBasket champions. But, they only managed to finish 11th in Turkey in 2001, and it seemed to be going in the same direction in 2003, with two opening defeats.

However, the hot-and-cold was in full display in 2003, as Italy not only survived the Group Stage, but managed to overcome Germany, Greece and France in the Knockout Phase, while losing only to Spain and finishing in third spot. All four of those games were within one-possession difference, showing how thin of a line it was between a Group Stage exit and a podium finish.

Italy went on to win another silver at the 2004 Summer Olympics, but just as fans presumed a successful era is starting, the team failed to reach the Olympics since, and missed out on Quarter-Finals at FIBA EuroBasket in 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2011.

The cold part if hopefully behind Italy now. They've been a part of the elite eight in last three FIBA EuroBasket events. It could get hot again soon, especially since they are one of the hosts of the FIBA EuroBasket in 2022.

FIBA