TURIN (2016 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments) - Danilo Gallinari made some big plays late in the game to help Italy beat Croatia, 67-60 on Wednesday and clinch first place in Group B of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Turin.

Playing in front of a raucous, partisan Italian crowd, Gallinari finished with 12 points and 8 rebounds and the Azzurri moved a step closer to their aim of reaching the Olympics for the first time since 2004.

Gallinari gave this thoughts to FIBA.com.

FIBA.com: What was the key to beating Croatia?
Gallinari: It was a very good game. Right from the beginning, we were able to play very good defense. Our offense was not very fluid but our defense was on point for 40 minutes.

FIBA.com: What made the difference in the second half?
Gallinari: Our defense was more aggressive. We were able to force them on the 24-second shot clock. I thought our defense was very good.

FIBA.com: What about your play down the stretch? You made some big baskets.
Danilo Gallinari: I was trying to give some physical presence on the offensive boards, I was playing the five (center) and the four (power forward), so I had to go to the boards.

FIBA.com: What are Italy's chances in the OQT?
Danilo Gallinari: I think if we keep playing this defense as well as we have and our offense gets better, we've got a very good chance of winning every game.

FIBA.com: How does it feel to be playing at the PalaOlimpico?
Danilo Gallinari: It's beautiful. We have to thank all of the Italian fans for coming here, it's a good atmosphere. It's the first time we've been able to play in this type of (home) atmosphere.

FIBA.com: Does reaching the Semi-Finals undefeated have any special value?
Danilo Gallinari: No. With this kind of schedule, we have to clear our minds and focus on the next game.

FIBA.com: And making it to the Olympics, what about that mean to you?
Danilo Gallinari: It would be a dream come true for everybody. We will try our best.

FIBA