Danilo Gallinari News: Denver Star Shines as Italy Wins
Mar 11, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Danilo Gallinari (8) drives to the basket against Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) during the second half at Pepsi Center. The Nuggets won 115-102. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
The Denver Nuggets’ forward Danilo Gallinari continues to shake off rust, leading Italy to a third straight win in EuroBasket.
Gallinari, who has missed a lot of time over past few seasons for the Nuggets, led Italy to a 68-63 victory over Russia.
The game was another warm-up for the EuroBasket 2015 tournament, also to be played in Trieste, and was Italy’s third game following victories over both Georgia and Michigan State University.
The 6’9″ forward started to show his all-star potential the Nuggets saw when he first came to Denver, as the Italian star scored a new international career-high of 32 points. Gallo also added 10 rebounds, as he earned a double-double in the win.
Overall, Gallinari came up clutch late in the game.
With Italy trailing 57-52, the Nuggets’ forward played strong defense, preventing scores, and became aggressive, taking control of the game.
He drew four fouls and connected on seven of the eight following free throws, giving Italy the lead and the eventual win.
For Gallinari, this game must feel good. Coming of injuries, this could be a giant step forward for both his confidence and evolution.
For Nuggets fans and ownership, this has to be a can great sign too.
Having resigned him this past offseason for two additional years, the Nuggets hope Gallinari can remain healthy and reach his full potential going forward.
Note: All statistics are from RealGM unless otherwise indicated.