Italy celebrates first podium finish in 30 years

Piraeus: Italy bounced back from their Semi-Final heartbreak to win the FIBA Women’s EuroBasket 2025 bronze medal after beating France 69-54 in Piraeus.

Having won silver back in 1995, Italy returned to the podium with a vibrant team performance that was full of heart as they denied France back-to-back bronze medals.

Having been down by double-figures, France were squeezing Italy hard in the last quarter and with just over 5 minutes remaining, cut the gap to 56-51. But a huge three-point shot from Cecilia Zandalasini got Italy rolling again and it felt like the air started to go out of the French balloon.

Cecilia Zandalasini put in a leader’s performance when it mattered most for her country. She harvested 20 points, 3 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks – as well as doing all the little things that great players do in the biggest games.

After their 5 of 30 nightmare in the Semi-Final against Spain from downtown, France continued to rely heavily on their perimeter shooting. This time they put up 20 attempts and again came up way short, converting only 2 of them. In contrast, Italy were 7 of 15 from long-range.

Italy played superbly and barely missed a beat. Importantly they managed the lead they accrued early in the second-half really well in the last 15 minutes. Their defense stood up and their decision-making was generally impressive. This was a tremendous victory and achievement and perhaps most exciting of all, this might not be a one-off.

France used to be feeling frustrated with a string of silver medals and now they have just one bronze in two editions. To not end their 16-year title drought was disappointing, to not make the Final was crushing, but to not even take bronze was unthinkable. Their combined 7 of 50 from three-point range in their two biggest games told a story – as did too many players not turning up in their highest gear.

“I reminded the players of how proud I am of coaching them. I wish I could coach them all year around if I could. The game plan was to control the rhythm and keep it low as France are physical and athletic. We followed the game plan and I want to thank the players, coaches and staff.” Italy coach, Andrea Capobianco

“There is a lot of emotion and been waiting for this moment for many years. This is my fifth Women’s EuroBasket so we always wanted to do great things, but it is such a challenge with great opponents. I am overwhelmed that we ended up with this medal. This is the best day of my life.” Italy guard, Cecilia Zandalasini

“I want to congratulate Italy who played great and as a team. We didn’t really play the way that we should after coming to the tournament with a high expectation.” France coach, Jean-Aime Toupane.