Fresh off witnessing the Italian women`s national basketball team secure a historic European Championship bronze medal after a 30-year drought, the President of the Italian Basketball Federation (FIP), Gianni Petrucci, is radiating optimism. Returning to Rome after the triumphant campaign in Greece, Petrucci, a veteran figure in Italian sports administration, reflected on the achievement with evident pride.
He described the bronze medal as a “miracle,” emphasizing the sheer willpower of the players who defied expectations. “We were seen as the poor relatives,” Petrucci stated, referencing the disparity in resources and registered players compared to some rival federations. Yet, the team, under a coach he strongly defended despite initial criticism, managed a remarkable run, including a significant victory over the Olympic vice-champions, France. Petrucci singled out player Cecilia Zandalasini as a “phenomenon.” He acknowledged that one result doesn`t erase existing issues but affirmed the federation`s commitment to investing further in women`s basketball to revitalize the domestic league. This bronze, he insists, “shines and shines and shines,” signaling progress down the right path.
In a poignant gesture, Petrucci dedicated the medal to Achille Polonara, an Italian national team player currently dealing with health issues, expressing solidarity and optimism for his recovery.
Turning his attention to the upcoming challenge for the men`s national team at their own European Championship, Petrucci voiced his hope that the women`s success would serve as a powerful “stimulus” for Coach Gianmarco Pozzecco and his squad. He praised Pozzecco`s ability to generate enthusiasm and highlighted the importance of experienced leaders like Gigi Datome and Nicolò Melli, who is fresh off winning a tough Turkish championship. Despite acknowledging the quality of the team, Petrucci, perhaps wisely, refrained from making any bold predictions.
A key point of anticipation for the men`s team involves the potential addition of NBA player Donte DiVincenzo, who has Italian heritage. Petrucci addressed the ongoing bureaucratic process, expressing optimism that a resolution would be reached within the next couple of weeks – the established deadline. He detailed the necessary administrative steps involving the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of the Interior, expressing gratitude for their involvement. Petrucci confirmed the player`s strong desire to join the Italian national setup, stating DiVincenzo “can`t wait to come to Italy” to finalize the necessary paperwork.
Beyond the national teams, Petrucci also commented on recent changes within Italian basketball`s domestic league, Lega Basket. He spoke highly of the new president, Gherardini, citing his long track record of leaving a positive mark wherever he has worked. Reflecting on the past league season, he pointed to Trapani, under President Antonini, for bringing significant enthusiasm, and Brescia, led by the “extraordinary entrepreneur” Mauro Ferrari and coached by Poeta, whose calm demeanor on the bench, Petrucci suggested, “should be an example for everyone.”
The discussion extended to broader Italian sports governance, specifically the election of Luciano Buonfiglio as the new president of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI). Petrucci shared a personal anecdote about Buonfiglio gifting him a conductor`s baton, implying a long-standing relationship and Buonfiglio viewing Petrucci as an “orchestra director.” He praised Buonfiglio`s humble approach during his candidacy and his inaugural speech. Petrucci noted Buonfiglio`s early “luck,” referencing medals already secured by Italian federations (including basketball and athletics) under his nascent tenure. He predicted Buonfiglio could potentially lead CONI for multiple terms. Petrucci also commented on the political dynamics surrounding the election, including efforts to secure Mornati as secretary general and the subsequent impact on relationships with other federation presidents like Barelli and Binaghi. He suggested Buonfiglio`s election would ease tensions, while slyly noting that the influence of former CONI president Giovanni Malagò, despite his departure, remains significant due to his vast network (“the man who knows the most people in the world”).
Asked about potential “losers” in the CONI election process, Petrucci dismissed the idea, expressing confidence in figures like Pancalli and Minister Abodi, the latter described as an “enlightened executive” whose commitments to Italian sport, particularly football, Petrucci trusts will be honored.
Finally, Petrucci offered a personal reflection on the importance of human relationships in his long and varied career, rating them a perfect ten out of ten. He expressed distrust for “phenomena” (likely referring to those who rely solely on talent without interpersonal skills) and a lack of envy for billionaires, feeling content with what he has. His advice to his children mirrors his own philosophy: honesty ultimately yields results. He also touched upon his faith and perspective following a serious accident the previous year, stating he was at peace even when believing he was close to death. It`s a perspective perhaps gained from a life navigating the complex, often demanding, but clearly rewarding world of Italian sport.
