Doncic‘s 42-Point Performance Sends Slovenia Through, Eliminates Italy from Eurobasket 2025
riga, Latvia – Luka Dončić delivered a dominant 42-point, 10-rebound performance as Slovenia defeated Italy 84-77 in a Quarterfinal matchup at teh FIBA EuroBasket 2025, securing their place in the next round.Despite a spirited late-game rally led by Simone Fontecchio, Danilo gallinari, and Niccolò Mian, Italy couldn’t overcome a notable first-half deficit.
Slovenia seized control early, fueled by Dončić’s explosive scoring, leading 29-11 after the first quarter.While Italy found some offensive rhythm in the second, particularly through Fontecchio’s 11 points, they trailed 50-40 at halftime.
The third quarter saw Italy struggle with turnovers,including a costly breakdown by Fontecchio during a 3-vs-1 fast break. Slovenia extended their lead, entering the final quarter ahead 72-56, bolstered by key triples from Luka Prepelic.
Italy mounted a furious comeback in the fourth, driven by Mian and Gallinari’s energy and Dončić appearing to tire.They narrowed the gap to 78-77 with just over a minute remaining. However, crucial late-game fouls and missed shots allowed Dončić to seal the victory from the free-throw line, finishing with a final score of 84-77. Alen Omić also proved a significant factor for Slovenia, particularly in the third quarter.
