Italian national basketball coach Gianmarco Pozzecco has shared a deeply personal aspiration regarding forward Achille Polonara. While Polonara is currently engaged in a courageous battle against myeloid leukemia and undergoing necessary treatment, rendering him unable to compete on the court, Pozzecco harbours a distinct hope: to see the player join the team`s staff for the upcoming EuroBasket tournament.
“Dreaming costs nothing,” Pozzecco recently remarked in an interview with the portal Eurodevotion, acknowledging the perhaps ambitious, yet heartfelt, nature of his sentiment. His specific, fervent desire? “I dream of having him in the staff at EuroBasket.” This statement is more than just a passing comment; it underlines a profound connection and a wish to integrate a valued team member who is currently facing adversity far greater than any basketball opponent.
A Difficult Battle Off the Court
Polonara, a key figure for the Italian squad known for his energy and versatility, received the diagnosis of myeloid leukemia last year during the intense atmosphere of the Italian league semifinals between Virtus Bologna and Olimpia Milano. This medical reality necessitated an immediate and significant shift in focus from competitive sport to critical health treatment. He is presently receiving essential medical care in Valencia, Spain, which, understandably, makes his physical presence on the court for the European Championship an impossibility.
Despite the physical distance imposed by Polonara`s treatment, Pozzecco revealed that he maintains daily contact with the player. The coach`s hope extends beyond merely a symbolic gesture; it seeks to integrate Polonara`s indomitable spirit and resilience directly into the team environment. “I hear from Achille every day,” Pozzecco stated. “I don`t know if it will be possible, but I dream of having him with us. It would be a very strong signal.” Indeed, it would serve as a powerful message of solidarity and mutual support, demonstrating unequivocally that the team stands united with its player as he navigates his most significant challenge.
As the Italian squad prepares for their EuroBasket group stage fixtures in Cyprus, supported by their established technical personnel, the prospect of Polonara`s presence in an off-court capacity highlights a fundamental truth within the world of sport: the bonds forged between teammates and staff often transcend the boundaries of the game itself. It serves as a poignant reminder that amidst the pursuit of victory on the court, the well-being of the individuals and the strength derived from standing together are, ultimately, paramount.
Gilbert Pendleton