Pozzecco calls Nicolo Melli 'one of the best players in the world' / News - Basketnews.com

Gianmarco Pozzecco praised Nicolo Melli, after Italy held off Turkey in their 2025 EuroBasket Qualifiers opener.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Italy downed Turkey 87-80 in their 2025 EuroBasket Qualifiers opener in a game held in Pesaro in front of 8,800 spectators at the Vitrifrigo Arena.

Italy / Schedule

Italy Turkey87-80 Hungary ItalySun17:00

The Azzurri's top scorer was Nicolo Melli with 17 points, while Marco Spissu (12), Stefano Tonut (12), Pippo Ricci (11) and Nico Mannion (10) also scored in double figures.

After Gigi Datome retired, Melli has been the team's captain. "I trust and rely on Melli, who I continue to consider one of the best players in the world," coach Gianmarco Pozzecco gave his player the highest praise.

"We won an important match. We started out nervous and it made sense because we hadn't seen each other for many months, but then we loosened up offensively," coach Pozzecco commented.

"We are a talented team and we showed it. Our victory starts from defense, and tonight from the second quarter we defended really well. I expected the boys to play with passion and attachment to the jersey," the Italian tactician stressed.

"I am grateful to them because they always come to the national team with desire and determination. I perceive it by coaching them and the public perceives it too.

People have fun because fans want to see players fighting on the court. We were especially good in the second quarter, when we increased the intensity."

On Saturday afternoon, the Azzurri will reach Szombathely, where they will face Hungary on Sunday 25 February (6.00 pm CET).

Melli was authorized to leave the squad in agreement with the technical and medical staff. Stefano Tonut, who suffered an injury to his right wrist at the end of the game, will not fly to Hungary. Diego Flaccadori and Matteo Spagnolo were also authorized to leave the group.

On the other hand,Davide Casarin, guard of Umana Reyer Venezia, will join the team.

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