Italy vs Bosnia Basketball Prediction, Preview, News, Odds: 31/8/2025

This matchup comes as part of EuroBasket 2025 Group C, set to take place at the Spyros Kyprianou Arena in Limassol, Cyprus, between August 28 and September 4. Italy and Bosnia sit in one of the tournament’s toughest groups alongside Spain, Greece, Georgia, and the host nation, Cyprus.

Team Previews

Italy

Italy arrives as a seasoned European basketball heavyweight with a record 39 appearances in the tournament and two EuroBasket championship titles (1983, 1999). Their roster may be strengthened by a high-profile nationalization: guard Donte DiVincenzo is in the process of joining the team, potentially offering Coach Gianmarco Pozzecco a valuable scoring and perimeter threat .

Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Bosnian “Dragons” feature a roster led by NBA veteran Jusuf Nurkić, but their preparation has been rocky. Head coach Adis Bećiragić has expressed concern over Nurkić’s physical condition, noting the center “could barely run,” and the squad’s overall form entering the tournament remains uncertain.

Tactical Battles & Match Highlights

• Interior Showdown: Nurkić’s ability to stay mobile is crucial. If he’s limited, Italy can dominate the paint with physicality and steady execution.
• Shooting & Spacing: Italy’s potential inclusion of DiVincenzo could open up floor spacing and keep defenses honest. Without him, their outside shooting—especially from veterans or role players—will be under pressure.
• Tempo Control: Bosnia struggles with consistency, but if they ride early energy and control the boards, they can keep the game in reach. Italy must avoid turnovers and exploit defensive mismatches.

Prediction

Italy 79 – Bosnia & Herzegovina 72

Italy’s experience and structural play give them the edge in a tight, physical contest. With Nurkić’s mobility questionable and big rotational concerns for Bosnia, Italy should be able to eke away late with bench scoring and defensive discipline.

X‑Factor: Donte DiVincenzo’s availability—or Italy’s shooting execution if he’s sidelined—will likely tip this game toward the Azzurri.