It needed to be a European Championship to make the top eight, but Italy's U20 team won gold. The Azzurrini were steady, compact, and magnificent, defeating Lithuania 83-66 to win their first continental title in 12 years and their third overall. Despite a reduced rotation of eight players, coach Rossi's team had an outstanding performance. Matteo Ferrari, the tournament's MVP, scored 26 points on 9-of-16 shooting. Assui also excelled (17 points and 9 rebounds). The game started evenly, but Italy pulled away, closing the first half up by 16. Lithuania attempted to respond in the third quarter, closing the gap to five points, but Italy stood firm and blocked every comeback attempt. Ferrari's final three-pointers shattered Lithuania's hopes, giving the Azzurrini the win. A remarkable accomplishment that also represents a positive outlook for the "big brothers" of the Italian basketball team, who are anticipated to compete at the senior European Championship beginning on August 27th.