HERAKLION (2015 FIBA U19 World Championship) - Twenty years after their last appearance at the tournament, Italy booked their spot in the Quarter-Finals of the 2015 FIBA U19 World Championship with an 82-73 victory over Dominican Republic. Four players scored in double figures for Italy, who will take on the winner between the United States and Argentina in the Quarter-Finals. 

Turning Point: Italy saw their 20-point fourth quarter lead just about completely vanish with the Dominicans using a 20-5 run to close to within 76-71. But Ion Lupusor nailed a jumper and then Luca Severini blocked Jeromy Rodriguez's shot to secure the victory. 

Stats Don't Lie: Italy held Dominican Republic to 38 percent shooting and they committed just 12 turnovers in the game. 

Game Hero: Diego Flaccadori was Italy's all-around star with 14 points, eight assists, five rebounds, three steals and one blocked shot.

The Bottom Line: Italy waited 20 years to get back to the tournament and their last podium finish came in 1991 when the followed up their 1987 third place showing with a second place placing. The Dominicans are playing in their first tournament since 1983, when they finished ninth in their sole appearance. 

FIBA