As the summer heat intensifies, so does the anticipation for EuroBasket 2025. Italy`s national basketball team, affectionately known as the Azzurri, is charting its course for the prestigious tournament, with Head Coach Gianmarco Pozzecco recently unveiling his preliminary squad. This isn`t just a list of names; it`s a testament to team spirit, resilience, and strategic foresight, featuring a mix of seasoned professionals, promising talents, and a truly heartwarming gesture that transcends the boundaries of sport.
A Symbolic Call: The Enduring Spirit of Achille Polonara
Perhaps the most poignant inclusion on Pozzecco`s roster is that of Achille Polonara. The Virtus Bologna forward, currently battling myeloid leukemia, cannot physically join the training camp. Yet, his name stands proudly among the reserves. This is no mere formality; it`s a powerful statement from Pozzecco, demonstrating unwavering solidarity and a profound belief in Polonara`s integral place within the Azzurri family. It`s a reminder that some battles are fought off the court, but the team`s spirit, much like its strategic plays, remains unbroken.
The Pillars of the Squad: NBA Presence and Timely Additions
The Italian squad boasts significant firepower, particularly from the NBA. Forward Simone Fontecchio, a dynamic scorer, is expected to join the camp slightly later, but his offensive prowess will be crucial. Veteran forward Danilo Gallinari, fresh from his club commitments in Puerto Rico, brings a wealth of experience and clutch performance capabilities. His return is always a welcome sight, offering a steady hand in crucial moments.
A notable new face, or rather, a newly passported one, is Donte DiVincenzo. The talented guard, now an Italian citizen, has been invited to integrate with the squad. His arrival injects a dose of high-level NBA athleticism, defense, and shooting precision, immediately raising the team`s ceiling. One might muse on the efficiency of modern bureaucracy when a player`s passport status can change the entire dynamic of a national team, but Italian fans certainly aren`t complaining.
Rounding out the notable inclusions is Darius Thompson, who has also expressed his keen desire to don the national jersey when the opportunity arises, further deepening Pozzecco`s talent pool.
Pozzecco`s Vision: The Full Roster and Strategic Depth
Coach Pozzecco`s selections reflect a blend of proven talent and emerging prospects, aiming to forge a cohesive unit ready for the rigors of European competition. The full list of players called up for the training camp, which will take place in Folgaria from July 23rd to 31st, includes:
- Donte DiVincenzo
- Marco Spissu
- Dame Sarr
- Stefano Tonut
- Danilo Gallinari
- Nicolò Melli
- Simone Fontecchio
- Giampaolo Ricci
- Matteo Spagnolo
- Gabriele Procida
- Saliou Niang
- Giordano Bortolani
- Guglielmo Caruso
- Momo Diouf
- Riccardo Rossato
- Luca Severini
- Nikola Akele
- Alessandro Pajola
This squad offers versatility across positions, with a mix of sharp shooters, strong defenders, and creative playmakers, reflecting a modern approach to international basketball.
The Road to Limassol: A Gauntlet of Preparation
Before heading to Limassol, Cyprus, for their EuroBasket Group C commitments, the Azzurri will undergo a rigorous preparatory schedule, including six demanding friendly matches. This is where the real work begins, where individual talents coalesce into a unified team. The schedule includes:
- Trentino Basket Cup (August 2-3): Kicking off with a clash against Iceland on August 2nd, followed by a match against either Poland or Senegal on August 3rd.
- Trieste Showdown (August 9): A challenging encounter against Latvia, led by coach Luca Banchi, on August 9th.
- Bologna Nostalgia (August 14): A highly anticipated game at PalaDozza in Bologna against Argentina. This match holds a special resonance, marking the first time these two basketball powerhouses have met since the legendary 2004 Olympic final in Athens. A chance to rekindle an old rivalry and perhaps rewrite a small piece of history.
- Acropolis Tournament (August 21-22): The final tune-up in Athens, facing Latvia again on August 21st, and then the formidable hosts, Greece, on August 22nd.
EuroBasket 2025: The Main Event
The culmination of this intense preparation will be the EuroBasket 2025, where Italy will open their campaign in Limassol, Cyprus. Their inaugural match is scheduled for August 28th against Greece at 8:30 PM. The group stage promises thrilling contests, and Italy will aim to make a strong statement from the outset.
With a blend of NBA firepower, symbolic gestures of solidarity, and a challenging pre-tournament schedule, Gianmarco Pozzecco`s Italy appears ready for a compelling EuroBasket 2025 campaign. The Azzurri are not just preparing for games; they are building a narrative of unity, ambition, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Fans can certainly look forward to a summer filled with passion, skill, and, hopefully, a memorable run for the national team.
Gilbert Pendleton