After a series of mixed results, they improved their chances of reaching the quarter-finals with a 84-70 demolition of Lithuania.
It means Ramunas Butautas's side will now miss out on the last eight for the first time in eight years.
Pau netted 19 points, eight rebounds and three blocks to the delight of Spanish coach Sergio Scariola, whose side next face hosts Poland on Wednesday in a must-win clash.
"Pau was very important defensively for us," said Scariola.
"He made one big step forward in terms of intensity and aggressiveness. The team took advantage of this.
"I think it was an excellent game from our team. One main issue was that we recovered our physical condition and we played the game the way we like to - by running and being aggressive.
"We are just one step closer to where we want to get. It's a very important step, a consistent one."
Poland now must beat the Olympic silver medallists to stand a chance of progression - following a 76-60 loss to injury-ravaged but in-form Slovenia.
NBA stars Beno Udrih and Sasha Vujacic are both absent through injury while captain Matiaz Smodis struggles with his back and star guard Goran Dragic was sidelined with a knee problem.
But coach Jure Zdovc praised his weakened side's spirit, as they booked their last eight place.
"I need to congratulate my players," he said.
"We have struggled with injuries but those players that have gone on the court have given everything they have. We deserved this win."
Elsewhere, Turkey remain unbeaten and also advanced to the quarter-finals with a 69-64 win over Serbia.
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