Italy can't handle a massive Luka Doncic: Slovenia into quarterfinals

Italy fought until the end to try to advance to the quarterfinals of Eurobasket 2025, but ultimately couldn't overcome Slovenia led by the sublime Luka Doncic, who eliminated them with a score of 84-77. However, the Balkan team faced more difficulties in the final stages.

Doncic played like an MVP, scoring 22 points in the first quarter, giving his team an 18-point lead that seemed insurmountable. Despite Italy keeping up and trailing by only 10 points at halftime, they couldn't secure a victory and had to end their run. They fought hard, especially towards the end. Slovenia was up by 13 points in the last 5 minutes, but a 12-0 run by Italy, with Doncic mostly sidelined and his teammates missing shots, gave hope to the Italians. However, it was not enough as Doncic sealed the game from the free-throw line, sending Slovenia to the quarterfinals.

The Los Angeles Lakers player finished the game with 42 points (11 for 19 from the field, 15 for 16 from the free-throw line, 5 for 11 from three-point range, half of Slovenia's total points), 10 rebounds, and only one assist. Following him, the only other Slovenian in double digits was Klemen Prepelic with 11 points. Alen Omic was instrumental with 7 points and 7 rebounds. Slovenia needs more support for their star player, although doubting their ability to win with Doncic would be blasphemous given the upsets in the championship.

Italy, once again falling short. Simone Fontecchio had a strong performance with 22 points. Saliou Niang, as against Spain, contributed significantly inside with 12 points. Veteran Danilo Gallinari stepped up with 10 crucial points in the end. Nicol Melli had 8 points. However, it was not enough, leading to Italy's defeat against Gianmarco Pozzecco's team.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Italia no puede con un enorme Luka Doncic: Eslovenia a cuartos