As summer heat builds across Europe, so does the anticipation for EuroBasket 2025. For Italy, the journey officially begins with the announcement of Coach Gianmarco Pozzecco`s preliminary roster for the upcoming training camp. This isn`t just a list of names; it`s a carefully curated blend of established stars, promising new talent, and, most profoundly, a powerful symbol of unwavering team spirit and resilience.
The Indomitable Spirit: Achille Polonara`s Inclusion
Among the names that resonate most deeply on Pozzecco`s list is that of Achille Polonara. Diagnosed with myeloid leukemia, Polonara`s inclusion is less about his immediate on-court availability and entirely about a profound gesture of solidarity. Though unable to actively participate in the training camp, the Virtus Bologna power forward remains an integral part of the “Azzurri” family. This decision by the technical staff underscores a fundamental truth about team sports: some bonds transcend the court. It`s a poignant reminder that even in the face of immense personal challenges, the spirit of the team can provide a vital source of strength and belonging. One might even call it a strategic move for team morale, a stark contrast to mere statistical analysis – a coach`s touch that goes beyond Xs and Os.
Achille Polonara raising the cup with Virtus Bologna, a symbol of his resilient spirit and ongoing connection to the basketball community.
Star Power and New Blood: Gallinari, Fontecchio, and DiVincenzo
Joining this poignant narrative are some familiar heavy hitters and exciting new additions set to converge at the Folgaria training camp from July 23 to 31. Veteran **Danilo Gallinari**, a seasoned NBA forward, will link up with the squad after fulfilling his club commitments in Puerto Rico. His experience and scoring prowess are invaluable. **Simone Fontecchio**, another key offensive weapon, will join the group on July 30, eager to contribute his scoring touch.
The buzz around newly naturalized **Donte DiVincenzo** is palpable. Invited by the Italian Federation to join practices starting July 30, his presence signals a strategic injection of dynamic NBA-level talent into the Italian backcourt. His versatility and defensive tenacity are expected to make an immediate impact. Furthermore, **Darius Thompson**, who has expressed a strong desire to wear the national jersey, is also on the radar, indicating a proactive approach by Pozzecco to expand the talent pool.
The Full Azzurri Roster
Coach Pozzecco’s full list of convocations for the training camp 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
- (Achille Polonara – symbolic inclusion)
- (Darius Thompson – expressed interest for future call-ups)
The Road Ahead: Preparation and Friendlies
The path to EuroBasket glory is rarely a leisurely stroll; it`s a rigorous march paved with intense training and challenging exhibition games. The Azzurri will engage in six friendly matches before heading to Limassol, Cyprus, the host city for Group C of EuroBasket 2025 (August 28 – September 14).
Their initial test will be the **Trentino Basket Cup**:
- **August 2:** Italy vs. Iceland (8:00 PM local time)
- **August 3:** Italy vs. Poland/Senegal (7:00 PM local time)
Preparation continues in Trieste, where Italy will face **Latvia** (coached by Luca Banchi) on Saturday, August 9, at 8:00 PM. A particularly anticipated clash will be held in Bologna on Thursday, August 14, at 8:00 PM, against **Argentina**. This marks the first time these two basketball powerhouses have met since the unforgettable 2004 Olympic final in Athens, a clash that carries a particularly sweet, almost cinematic, resonance for fans. The pre-tournament schedule concludes with the traditional **Acropolis Tournament in Athens**:
- **August 21:** Italy vs. Latvia
- **August 22:** Italy vs. Greece (the host nation)
The main event, EuroBasket 2025, will see Italy make their debut in Limassol on August 28 against Greece at 8:30 PM.
This Italian squad, under the astute guidance of Gianmarco Pozzecco, is more than just a collection of athletes; it`s a narrative woven with ambition, resilience, and an unwavering spirit. From the symbolic inclusion of a battling teammate to the integration of new, high-caliber talent, the Azzurri are poised to make their mark on EuroBasket 2025. The coming weeks of preparation will be crucial, but one thing is clear: Italy is bringing not just skill, but heart to the court.
Murray Blackwood