In the fast-paced world of European basketball, where talent constantly battles ambition, a new name has emerged as the summer`s revelation: Saliou Niang. At just 21 years old, this powerful forward has captivated audiences, securing his place as the new face of Virtus Bologna and, perhaps, the future of Italian basketball. Niang`s story is one of fierce determination, strategic growth, and an unwavering gaze towards the game’s ultimate prize, all while keeping his feet firmly planted on the hardwood of the EuroLeague.
Saliou Niang, the new force for Virtus Bologna, eyes a successful season.
The Unyielding Ambition of a Young Star
Niang isn`t just joining Virtus Bologna; he`s arriving with a clear mandate for himself and his new team: victory. “With Virtus, I want the maximum. To win as many trophies as possible. I am here to give everything,” he declared, his words resonating with the palpable energy he brings to the court. His presence is often described as “electric,” a quality Italian fans witnessed firsthand during Eurobasket this past summer. That tournament, he admits, fueled his fire: “The European Championship certainly gave me more grit, more desire to improve. It was a fantastic experience. I am happy with how I played and how I got along with the National team, with my teammates. This pushes me to give more here, at Virtus.”
This commitment is particularly significant given his recent NBA Draft selection by the Cleveland Cavaliers (58th pick). For many, a Draft call-up would mean an immediate flight across the Atlantic. But Niang, with a maturity that belies his age, understands the journey requires patience and immediate focus. “I had never been to America in my life, and I was really surprised by how they treat sports, basketball. The organization and attention,” he recounted, a hint of admiration in his voice. “I do think about the NBA, yes. But now I want to do my best for Virtus.” It`s a pragmatic idealism, a recognition that current success is the clearest path to future dreams.
Battles Ahead: Milano and the EuroLeague
The Italian basketball landscape is fiercely competitive, with Virtus Bologna and Olimpia Milano often vying for supremacy. Niang is under no illusions about the challenge. When asked about facing Milano, he responded with characteristic resolve: “Virtus and Milano have been the two strongest teams in Italy for several years. We must always play with grit, as a team. And I don’t know what it will be like to face Milano in a Virtus jersey. But it will certainly be very beautiful and engaging.”
Beyond domestic skirmishes, the EuroLeague awaits—a brutal gauntlet of Europe`s elite. “Yes, that will also be a very difficult competition. We will try to give our maximum; it is crucial in such competitions,” Niang affirmed. His objective? “The maximum. Then we will see. It`s a long journey full of games. There are many. But if we stay united, we can do our best. Where we arrive, we will see along the way.” This measured approach speaks to a player focused on the process, not just the outcome, a hallmark of seasoned professionals.
Niang shares a moment with Italian national team coach Gianmarco Pozzecco, whom he considers “almost a friend.”
The Mentors and The “Azzurra Harmony”
Choosing Virtus was a deliberate decision for Niang. “It`s a historic club. I want to grow, to do well. I immediately felt good here. I know there`s great professionalism,” he explained. A significant part of that professionalism comes from coaching. Head coach Dusko Ivanovic, known for his demanding style, has already made a positive impression. “Excellent. He hasn`t made many specific requests, he just explained the plays, how to be better on the court, he helped me understand my role. I`m happy to play for him.”
Perhaps even more influential is Gianmarco Pozzecco, the Italian National team coach. Niang describes Pozzecco in remarkably personal terms: “He gave me confidence; he is a great person, one with whom I joke a lot off the court, I can even say he`s almost a friend. He gave me so much, he trusted me, and obviously, I can only be grateful to him. It wasn`t obvious. I wish him the best.” This bond forged on the national stage is now migrating to Bologna. Niang, along with fellow Azzurri players Pajola, Akele, and Diouf, aims to infuse Virtus with “the blue harmony” they found with the national team. “We gelled well in the National team. Now we would like to bring this harmony also to the season at Virtus. Even outside the gym, beautiful friendships have been born: I am well with them.”
Returning Home and Looking Forward
Bologna isn`t entirely new territory for Niang. He previously spent time in the youth academy of Fortitudo, Bologna`s other storied club. “When I was little and part of the Fortitudo youth academy, I would go to PalaDozza even just as a spectator: I remember always breathing an incredible atmosphere,” he reminisced. This connection to the city adds another layer to his return. His two years in Trento were crucial for his development, a period where he “found the right people at the right moment” in his life. Now, at Virtus, he seeks to continue that growth.
To the Virtus fans, Niang offers a simple, powerful promise: “I will always give my maximum for this jersey. That is something I can say. Bologna is a city I like. Off the court, I am a very normal guy, like everyone else.” He expects a “great cheer” from the fans, certain of their warm welcome. His eagerness is palpable: “I am very charged, I can`t wait.”
And what about that ever-present NBA dream? It remains a guiding star. “I fully understood that that`s where I would like to play. My big dream to try to realize. I always think about the NBA, yes. But now I am here at Virtus, I want to do my maximum for this jersey. Then we will see what happens.” It`s a statement that encapsulates the essence of Saliou Niang: a rising star with immense talent, a clear vision, and a dedication to the present that promises a bright future, both in Bologna and beyond.
