Melli inspires Italy to opening victory over Turkiye

PESARO (Italy) - Italy avoided slipping up in their opening game of the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Qualifiers as they gained a hard-fought 87-80 victory in their big home showdown with Turkiye.

Gianmarco Pozzecco's team put together a strong effort in defending their home court in Group B with some good balance with five players scoring in double figures. Nicolo Melli had 17 points in the win, while Turkiye wasted a 27-point performance from Tarik Biberovic in the 23-year-old's first-ever game for his country.

Turning Point: Italy went on a 12-4 run to close the first half with an 11 point lead. The hosts were able to stay ahead by double figures for and led 77-65. Melih Mahmutoglu hit two three-pointers and the visitors were within 79-73, but Marco Spissu punched back with a triple of his own to end the guests' momentum.

Game Hero: Nicolo Melli was a force for Italia with 17 points on 7-of-14 shooting including two three-pointers to go with 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal and 1 block. 

Stats Don't Lie: Italy shot 53 percent for the game including 61 percent on two-pointers and committed only 9 turnovers. Turkiye lost the ball 17 times and Italy used that for a 23-12 advantage in points off turnovers.

Bottom Line: Italy took care of business with their opening game at home and will hope to improve to 2-0 when they play at Hungary on Sunday. Turkiye will be looking to rebound as they host Iceland on the same day.

They Said:

FIBA