As the summer heat intensifies, so does the anticipation for EuroBasket 2025. Coach Gianmarco Pozzecco, ever the orchestrator of passion and tactical prowess, has unfurled the preliminary roster for the Italian national basketball team, signaling the official commencement of their rigorous preparation. This isn`t merely a list of names; it`s the foundation of a new campaign, blending seasoned veterans, burgeoning talents, and a profoundly symbolic gesture that underscores the true spirit of the game.
The Provisional Squad: Assembling the Azzurri
The journey towards EuroBasket 2025 will begin in Folgaria, where the Azzurri will gather for a training camp from July 23 to 31. This initial phase is crucial, allowing players to integrate, tactics to be refined, and team chemistry to coalesce under Pozzecco’s famously energetic guidance. The tournament itself is slated for August 28 to September 14, making this training camp the essential springboard.
Among the key figures expected to join the fold are seasoned NBA forward Danilo Gallinari, who will arrive after fulfilling his club commitments in Puerto Rico, and Utah Jazz standout Simone Fontecchio, set to integrate with the squad on July 30. Their experience and scoring touch will be indispensable for Italy`s ambitions.
A Symbolic Call: The Enduring Spirit of Achille Polonara
Perhaps the most poignant inclusion on Pozzecco`s list is that of Achille Polonara. Diagnosed with myeloid leukemia, Polonara is currently unable to participate physically. Yet, his name appears among the reserves, a powerful and deeply human gesture by Coach Pozzecco and the Federation. This is not a mere formality; it is an unequivocal statement that Polonara remains an integral part of the Azzurri family, his courage and fighting spirit serving as an inspiration to his teammates. It’s a stark reminder that beyond the athleticism and strategy, there`s a collective heart beating at the core of any great team.
New Faces and Future Prospects
The roster also welcomes new blood and exciting additions. Donte DiVincenzo, the newly naturalized Italian citizen, has been invited to join the group for training from July 30, promising to infuse the backcourt with his dynamic play and championship pedigree. Another intriguing name is Darius Thompson, who has expressed a clear desire to represent the national team, signaling a promising future addition should the opportunity arise.
The Road to Limassol: A Gauntlet of Friendlies
Preparation for EuroBasket 2025 is anything but leisurely. Italy is set to endure a packed schedule of six friendly matches before heading to Limassol, Cyprus, the host city for Group C. The intensity of this build-up might suggest Pozzecco is a glutton for competitive punishment, or perhaps a shrewd strategist aiming to forge diamond-hard resolve.
- Trentino Basket Cup (August 2-3): Italy will face Iceland on August 2, followed by a clash against either Poland or Senegal on August 3.
- Trieste (August 9): A challenging encounter against Latvia, coached by Luca Banchi.
- Bologna (PalaDozza, August 14): A highly anticipated match against Argentina. This will mark their first meeting since the dramatic 2004 Olympic final in Athens – a fixture that resonates with historical weight and, perhaps, a hint of unresolved competitive business.
- Acropolis Tournament (Athens, August 21-22): The final warm-up involves two more stern tests against Latvia and then the tournament hosts, Greece.
This relentless sequence of games is designed to fine-tune the squad, test various lineups, and ensure peak performance when the EuroBasket officially tips off on August 28. Italy`s opening match in Limassol will be against Greece at 8:30 PM local time.
The Full Contingent: Pozzecco`s Chosen Ones
The provisional squad reflects a blend of experience and potential, meticulously selected by Coach Pozzecco to navigate the challenges ahead:
- 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
As the Azzurri embark on this demanding journey, the focus remains clear: meticulous preparation, cohesive teamwork, and an unwavering spirit, fueled not just by competitive ambition but also by the quiet strength exemplified by individuals like Achille Polonara. The stage is set for an enthralling summer of Italian basketball.
