Italian basketball is currently navigating a period of both unexpected triumph and anticipated challenges, as shared by the long-serving President of the Italian Basketball Federation (FIP), Gianni Petrucci. Fresh off the Italian women`s national team securing a bronze medal at the recent European Championship – a feat not achieved in 30 years – Petrucci offered his perspective on this significant accomplishment and looked ahead to the men`s team`s upcoming EuroBasket campaign.
Speaking from Rome, Petrucci described the women`s bronze medal as a “miracle.” He candidly noted that the team, perhaps viewed internally as “poor relatives” compared to federations with vastly larger numbers of registered players, managed to surprise everyone with their sheer willpower and determination. Winning five out of six games, including a victory against the Olympic vice-champions France, underscored the magnitude of their achievement. Petrucci praised the technical staff, whose appointment had initially drawn criticism but ultimately proved inspired, and highlighted the exceptional talent of Cecilia Zandalasini. While acknowledging that this success doesn`t erase all existing issues, he affirmed the federation`s commitment to continued investment in the women`s game and revitalizing the domestic league. The bronze, he stated, “shines, shines, and shines,” signaling that Italian women`s basketball is on the right trajectory.
In a touching gesture, Petrucci dedicated the medal to Achille Polonara, an Italian player currently facing health issues. He expressed heartfelt support for Polonara, noting the player`s serenity and the medical team`s optimism as he embarks on a path towards recovery in Spain.
Transitioning to the men`s national team, the “Azzurri,” Petrucci articulated his hope that the women`s success would serve as a significant stimulus for Coach Gianmarco Pozzecco and his players as they prepare for the EuroBasket. He lauded the positive energy cultivated by Pozzecco, describing the coach as a genuinely good person for whom the players have immense affection. The team benefits from the valuable presence of veteran Gigi Datome and the leadership of Nicolò Melli, who is coming off a demanding championship-winning season in Turkey. Petrucci considers it a “good national team,” though he wisely refrained from offering any specific predictions.
One of the most keenly watched aspects of the men`s team preparation is the potential addition of NBA guard Donte DiVincenzo. Petrucci confirmed ongoing efforts to secure his eligibility, expressing optimism that the situation will be resolved within the next couple of weeks, which is nearing the deadline. He mentioned the necessary bureaucratic steps involving the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Interior, acknowledging the support received from ministers Tajani and Piantedosi. The federation is doing everything within its power, and crucially, the player himself is reportedly eager to come to Italy to complete the process for his passport.
Regarding structural changes within Italian basketball, Petrucci briefly commented on the recent change in leadership at Lega Basket, the top professional league. While maintaining his respect for the outgoing president Gandini, he spoke highly of the newly appointed president, Gherardini, citing his extensive experience and positive impact wherever he has worked.
Looking back at the last Italian league season, Petrucci highlighted Antonini`s impact in bringing enthusiasm to Trapani and singled out Brescia as a pleasant surprise. He praised Brescia`s owner, Mauro Ferrari, as an extraordinary entrepreneur and their coach, Giuseppe Poeta, whose calm demeanor on the bench, Petrucci suggested, should serve as an example to others.
Petrucci`s insights underscore a blend of pride in recent achievements, pragmatic assessment of current challenges, and hopeful anticipation for the future of Italian basketball, particularly concerning the men`s upcoming tournament and the potential boost from a key addition like Donte DiVincenzo.
