RADOM (FIBA U16 European Championship 2016) - Mattia Palumbo is one of many players competing in a major international tournament for the first time and the Italian is taking it all in his stride.

The competition marks new territory for a number of new faces making their debut at a European Championship, and not only is Palumbo soaking up the occasion, he is performing at a high level on the court, too.

"It’s my first experience [at a European Championship] and it has been outstanding - a really beautiful feeling," he said.

"I love it all - especially all of the fans as that was what I wanted to see.

"My expectations have been completed."

Italy have an array of different threats on their roster. Palumbo is one of three players averaging 10+ points per game, while there is also the added experience of returning duo Matteo Lagana and Nicolo Dellosto.

Palumbo had his best game against Spain after top-scoring with 17 points whilst also handing out seven assists during the tightly fought contest.

The 1.94m guard had a really bright spell in the third quarter to fire his side ahead at one stage, and there is the sense that he is just warming up in the competition.

"Every game I let the game come to me," he explained.

"I know I can easily create a shot of my own, but sometimes it is more important to create for the rest of the team.

"I felt like I had a better game [against Spain] and that gives me confidence to continue.

"I will look to play more 1-on-1 but also look to pass the ball more to help my team as best I can."

The Azzurri have had mixed fortunes so far after being pitted with strong opposition in Group A. They powered to a 39-point win over Sweden in between competitive losses against Latvia and Spain.

"It was a very tough group," said Palumbo.

"We lost a bit of focus at times, and against Spain they played a little better than us, but we still want to go as far as possible.

"When we play well, we move the ball quickly and we have to make sure we are getting our shot selection right."

Italy looked as though they would be playing Turkey in the Round of 16, but a victory for Sweden over Latvia meant that Germany would be their next opponents.

"Whoever we face, we know it will be a difficult game because there are lots of good teams," said Palumbo, before their next clash was confirmed.

"The competition gets tougher, but we must also get better.

"We need to stay focused and make sure we listen to what the coach tells us to do as that is important."

FIBA