BOLOGNA (Italy) - There was double delight for Italy and Lithuania who both wrapped up the victories needed to advance to the last eight of FIBA Women's EuroBasket. Italy rode another roller-coaster, this time against Slovenia as they collected an absorbing victory. Meanwhile Lithuania are loving life back at the big show as they stayed perfect.
Deja vu for Italy as they win another nail-biter
Having blown a big lead in their opening day success against Serbia only to eventually dig out a victory, it was 'Groundhog Day' for Italy on day two. They watched a 24-point advantage evaporate against Slovenia - only to recover and take a memorable 77-66 triumph.
Italy dominated in the first half, only for Slovenia to come roaring back and even take the lead in the last period. But to their credit, the co-hosts dug deep once again to edge an absolute classic. Cecilia Zandalasini led her team and dropped 14 points, but it was arguably the support of a combined 30 points from Francesca Pasa and Jasmine Keys that made the difference.
Juskaite and Jocyte have Lithuania dreaming big again
Lithuania advanced to the next phase after Italy's win, having earlier outlasted Serbia 74-63 off the back of telling contributions from Laura Juskaite and Juste Jocyte. The former finished the contest with 24 points and 9 rebounds, while Jocyte shone with 15 points, 7 boards and 6 assists.
With both teams struggling to get any rhythm from downtown, there had been little daylight between the teams until Lithuania made their run in the last quarter to ease clear. Serbia struggled to impose themselves offensively outside of 13 points apiece from Jovana Nogic and Yvonne Anderson.
FIBA