In the often high-stakes world of international sports, where the focus typically rests on tactics, training, and tournament brackets, the human element can sometimes be overlooked. However, a recent statement from Italy national basketball coach **Gianmarco Pozzecco** serves as a poignant reminder of the bonds that exist beyond the court.
Speaking in an interview with the portal Eurodevotion, Pozzecco expressed a deeply personal “dream”: having Italian forward **Achille Polonara** involved with the team during the upcoming EuroBasket tournament. This isn`t a tactical wish for a player on the roster; Polonara is currently unable to compete as he undergoes treatment in Valencia following a diagnosis of myeloid leukemia, discovered during the Italian league semifinals between Virtus Bologna and Olimpia Milano.
Pozzecco`s hope is specific and rooted in support. He articulated a desire to potentially have Polonara join the team in a staff capacity for the tournament, where Italy is set to play its group stage in Cyprus. The coach emphasized the symbolic power of such a presence, stating that having Achille alongside the team would send “a very strong signal.”
The connection between coach and player remains vital during Polonara`s challenging health battle. Pozzecco revealed that he speaks with Achille daily, underscoring the personal concern and solidarity extending from the national team setup to the player facing significant adversity. While acknowledging the uncertainty given Polonara`s ongoing treatment, the aspiration remains a source of motivation.
In essence, Pozzecco`s dream is less about tactical advantage and more about demonstrating unity, resilience, and unwavering support for a teammate during a difficult period. It highlights that the strength of a team isn`t solely measured by wins and losses, but also by how it stands together when faced with challenges far greater than those encountered on the basketball court.
Murray Blackwood