Italy recovers and takes down the Netherlands in last-second drama / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Italy (1-1) edged out the Netherlands (0-2) 75-73 (22-18, 25-11, 13-11, 15-23) to redeem themselves after the loss against Russia.

Player of the Game EFF Points Accuracy 0-0 Rebounds Assists

The third quarter went close, so the Netherlands went on a mission and erased Italy's double-digit lead with 4:28 to play in the match (67-67). Both teams struggled to score but Stefano Tonut converted a trey to put Italy in front by 3 points (72-69) with 1:38 to go.

Alessandro Pajola stole the ball and Nicola Akele made a layup (74-69), letting Italy breathe easier. But that was not an end as Worthy De Jong scored 4 points in a row (73-74) while 8 seconds were left on the clock.

The Netherlands did not have 4 team fouls so Italy was able to burn the costly seconds. Michele Vitali converted one free throw and there was no time for the answer.

For the winners, Nicola Akele posted 18 points (5/8 2PT, 2/4 3PT, 2/2 FT), 6 rebounds, 2 turnovers, 1 steal, and 18 PIR.

Stefano Tonut and Amedeo Tessitori added 13 points each.

Shane Hammink had 19 points (2/3 2PT, 5/6 3PT), 3 rebounds, 2 turnovers, 2 steals, 1 block, and 21 PIR for the Netherlands.

Italy started the game strongly, arranging a 16-5 spurt. Though, the Netherlands did not lose hope and cut the deficit to 4 points (18-22) at the end of the first quarter.

The Azzurri pushed the gas pedal one more time in the second period, building a 13-point advantage (42-29). Nevertheless, the Netherlands played a better stretch at the end of the first half. Squads went into the break while Italy was in front by 8 (47-39).

Italy: Nicola Akele 18 (6 REB), Stefano Tonut 13 (4 REB, 6 AST), Amedeo Tessitori 13 (4 REB).

Netherlands: Shane Hammink 19, Worthy De Jong 14 (6 REB), Charlon Kloof 11.

Thank you for reading us! We have even more content for you.