Danilo Gallinari and Italy failed to make the quarterfinals of the 2019 FIBA World Cup after falling to Spain Friday in a closely contested matchup, 67-60.
The loss dropped the Italian national team to 2-2 in group play. Italy will face Puerto Rico Sunday in a consolation game.
Although the Italians failed to advance, there are a lot of positives to take away, especially when it comes to Thunder forward Danilo Gallinari.
Gallinari was once again the team’s scoring leader, with 15 points. He added five rebounds, two assists and two steals.
Throughout the tournament, Gallinari has been Italy’s most productive player offensively. He leads the team in scoring (16.0 points per game), rebounds (5.5 per game) and efficiency (19.8 per game).
Erik Horne of The Oklahoman broke down Italy’s performance in Friday’s loss, and something that should encourage Thunder fans for the upcoming season: Gallinari was Italy’s best player.
Last year with the Clippers, Gallinari averaged 19.8 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.6 points per game.
