Quarter-Final preview: Italy and US compete in FIBA Basketball World Cup Quarter-Finals for surprise and sixth title

Posted : 04 September 2023

The Quarter-Finals clash between Italy and the United States at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 promises an exciting showdown. Italy, once flying under the radar, now has the opportunity to surprise the world. The USA, despite a recent loss to Lithuania, remains determined to secure their sixth world title.

Key Matchup: Italy faces the challenge of containing the dynamic Anthony Edwards, but the key matchup to watch is Nicolo Melli versus USA center Jaren Jackson Jr. The Americans struggled with rebounding in their loss to Lithuania, being out-rebounded 43-27. Italy boasts crafty and experienced frontcourt players, although they lack significant size. Rebounding, particularly offensive rebounds, will play a vital role in determining control of the game.

X-Factor: After a slow start against Lithuania, where they were outscored 31-12 in the first quarter, USA coach Steve Kerr emphasized the importance of a strong beginning. If the USA can establish an early lead and maintain aggressive defensive pressure throughout the game, it will pose a challenge for Italy, given their limited scoring options.

Stats Don't Lie: Italy's defense has been impressive in their recent games, holding Serbia to just 76 points (28.7 points below their average) and limiting the Dominican Republic to 57 points (down from their average of 92 points). The USA enters the game with an average of 101.4 points, raising questions about their scoring output in this matchup.

Past Matchups: The United States holds a 12-2 all-time advantage over Italy, with victories in their last four encounters. Italy has won only 2 of their 8 World Cup games against the USA, claiming victories in 1970 and 1978.

Notable: USA power forward Paolo Banchero has Italian heritage, and the Italian National Federation initiated contact with him last summer. However, he chose to represent the United States despite his Italian roots.

Italy coach Gianmarco Pozzecco praised his team's heart, tenacity, and unity, highlighting their unique qualities while USA coach Steve Kerr acknowledged that the loss to Lithuania provides a valuable learning experience, emphasizing the need for increased effort.

This Quarter-Finals matchup promises a thrilling battle between Italy's determination to surprise and the USA's pursuit of another world title.

Quarter-Final preview: Italy and US compete in FIBA Basketball World Cup Quarter-Finals for surprise and sixth title

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