In an unexpected turn of events, the Italian national basketball team faces a significant roster change just weeks before EuroBasket 2025. NBA standout Donte DiVincenzo has been ruled out due to injury, prompting a swift replacement.
The highly anticipated presence of Minnesota Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo at EuroBasket 2025 has been unfortunately cut short. In a recent press conference held at the CONI Lombardia headquarters in Milan, Gigi Datome, coordinator for the men`s national teams, and head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco delivered the news that has undoubtedly sent ripples of disappointment through the Italian basketball community. DiVincenzo himself conveyed the unfortunate development via a video message, expressing his regret at being unable to join the national squad this summer due to a physical setback, yet reaffirming his unwavering commitment to future national objectives, from the World Cup to the Olympics.
The Persistent Foot Problem
Delving deeper into the specifics, Datome elaborated on the nature of DiVincenzo`s injury. “On July 21st,” Datome explained, “we received approval from his franchise regarding our proposed work plan. Between that day and the 22nd, Donte, who had resumed training to be ready for July 30th, began experiencing discomfort in his left big toe.” This wasn`t an entirely new adversary; the same issue had previously forced him to miss several games during the NBA season.
The diagnosis leaves little room for optimism regarding the immediate future. After extensive consultations, the medical consensus pointed to a crucial recovery period: DiVincenzo requires four to five weeks of therapy and rest. With EuroBasket commencing in just one month, the math simply doesn`t add up. It’s a classic case of bad timing, proving once again that injuries possess an almost uncanny ability to strike at the most inconvenient moments, often sidelining key players just as major tournaments beckon.
The Timely “Plan B” Takes Center Stage
However, the Italian national team is not one to dwell on setbacks. A swift and decisive “Plan B” has been activated, ensuring the squad maintains a naturalized player for the upcoming European championship: Darius Thompson. “We`ve spoken with him,” Pozzecco confirmed, “and he has expressed his availability to join us next week in Trieste, where we will continue the work initiated in Folgaria.”
Pozzecco acknowledged the palpable disappointment among fans, who were understandably excited at the prospect of seeing an NBA athlete don the Azzurri jersey. DiVincenzo, too, shared this enthusiasm. Yet, the coach offered a resolute message of confidence: “It won`t be this summer, but you will see DiVincenzo in the national team jersey. Perhaps I won`t be the one coaching him then,” he quipped, hinting at the ever-evolving nature of coaching roles while reinforcing the player`s long-term commitment. Datome echoed this sentiment, lamenting DiVincenzo`s missed opportunity to play the opening EuroBasket game against Greece, featuring none other than Giannis Antetokounmpo, on August 28th in Cyprus. A tantalizing matchup that will, regrettably, have to wait.
While DiVincenzo`s absence is undoubtedly a blow, the Italian national team appears resilient and focused. The immediate integration of Darius Thompson underscores their commitment to competitive excellence, adapting swiftly to unforeseen challenges. The hope remains that DiVincenzo will recover fully and contribute to Italy`s future international endeavors, proving that while one chapter closes, another, hopefully equally compelling, swiftly begins.
Elton Marrow