Italian basketball is experiencing a promising resurgence, with a fresh wave of confidence sweeping through the national teams. As the senior men’s squad gears up for the late August EuroBasket, head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco offers a candid glimpse into his strategic thinking, emphasizing unity, resilience, and a clear vision for success. This summer, the Italian Federation has already seen the women’s national team secure a European bronze in Athens, and the U20 men claim European gold in Crete, setting a high bar for the senior team.
The Unwavering Spirit of Achille Polonara
Perhaps the most poignant aspect of Italy’s preparation involves veteran forward Achille Polonara. Despite undergoing treatment for leukemia in Valencia, Polonara remains an integral part of the national team. Coach Pozzecco confirms daily contact with the player, highlighting not just emotional support, but a practical, analytical contribution. Polonara, equipped with an intimate understanding of the team’s dynamics and Pozzecco’s tactical preferences, will provide invaluable insights through video and statistical analysis via the Synergy program. His presence, even if remote, is a testament to the strong bonds within the squad and a modern approach to leveraging experience.
“Achille is a player of strong feelings: when important emotions arise, he brings out his best basketball. He always pushes beyond, becomes unguardable. And he can do it especially in important matches.”
– Gianmarco Pozzecco
Pozzecco praises Polonara`s ability to perform under pressure, recalling his standout performances in crucial playoffs and during the 2022 EuroBasket. This unique arrangement underscores the coach’s belief in the human element of the game, valuing an individual`s connection and intellectual contribution as much as their physical presence on the court.
The DiVincenzo Dynamic: A “Boost” Without Dependency
Another focal point of discussion is the potential inclusion of NBA player Donte DiVincenzo, whose passport process is reportedly advancing smoothly. Coach Pozzecco expressed genuine enthusiasm about DiVincenzo, describing him as bright and possessing a “natural predisposition for European basketball” despite his NBA pedigree. While acknowledging DiVincenzo could provide a significant “boost,” Pozzecco meticulously clarified that his arrival is an added strength, not a foundational necessity. “I thought we could win even before,” he states, subtly reinforcing his confidence in the existing squad’s capabilities and avoiding the narrative of a team solely reliant on one incoming star.
This pragmatic optimism suggests a team aiming for consistent excellence, where top-tier talent enhances an already robust structure rather than defining it entirely. It’s a coach`s way of saying, “We`re good, but we can always be better,” without implying past deficiencies.
Pozzecco’s Blueprint: Identity Over Individualism
At the core of Pozzecco’s philosophy lies an emphasis on team identity and cohesion. He articulated a clear vision for the Azzurri: a squad committed to ball movement, stout defense, and a deeply unified group where players are “loved, not just tolerated,” and mistakes are accepted as part of the process. This approach was particularly evident in his explanation for the exclusion of young talent Nico Mannion.
Pozzecco asserts that his role is not merely to select the “best” players, but to forge a cohesive unit with a distinct identity, sometimes even prioritizing this over raw individual talent. This decision, he explains, is a strategic choice, not a negative judgment. It reflects a nuanced understanding of team chemistry, where every piece must fit the collective puzzle. For those wondering, veteran Danilo Gallinari, closely monitored by Pozzecco, is deemed to “deserve to be with us,” indicating a blend of experience and strategic fit remains crucial.
Building on a Foundation of Youth and Spirit
The recent successes of Italy’s youth and women`s national teams are not viewed as isolated achievements but as fruits of a coordinated effort by the Federation, spearheaded by President Petrucci, General Director Trainotti, and former captain Luigi Datome. Pozzecco sees these victories as a testament to a broader project. He acknowledged that while the team spirit was “moving” in past tournaments (2022 EuroBasket, 2023 World Cup), “something was missing” last summer. However, with key figures like Nik Melli and Simone Fontecchio, the coach is confident in rekindling that passionate charge, promising to go “strong, always.”
The collective success across different age groups and genders underscores a holistic, long-term vision for Italian basketball. Pozzecco even borrowed a page from the women`s national team’s playbook, praising Coach Capobianco’s work and the visible unity and “beautiful basketball” displayed by his bronze-winning squad.
The Road Ahead: A Medal in Sight?
As the EuroBasket approaches, Pozzecco`s confidence is palpable, rooted in a clear strategy and an unwavering belief in his players. His emphasis on trust, collaboration with his assistant coaches, and a steadfast commitment to team-first basketball paints a picture of a squad poised for a significant run. The blend of experienced veterans, emerging talents, potential NBA reinforcements, and a deeply human approach to leadership creates a compelling narrative for the Italian national team. Whether this strategic blend will culminate in a medal remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Pozzecco’s Azzurri are approaching the challenge with purpose, passion, and a distinct identity.
Adrian Whitmore