Italian national basketball coach Gianmarco Pozzecco has openly expressed a deeply personal aspiration regarding forward Achille Polonara. Polonara, a vital component of the Azzurri squad, is currently undergoing treatment in Valencia for myeloid leukemia, a challenging diagnosis that unfortunately arose during the final stages of the Italian league playoffs between Virtus Bologna and Olimpia Milano.
Despite Polonara`s necessary focus on his health and recovery, Coach Pozzecco maintains a poignant hope that extends beyond the confines of the basketball court. His dream, as shared in a recent interview, isn`t about Polonara returning to play immediately, but rather about his presence and involvement with the team in a different capacity for the upcoming EuroBasket tournament.
“I dream of having him on the staff at EuroBasket,” Pozzecco stated, revealing the depth of his wish. This sentiment is rooted in their close bond; the coach disclosed that he speaks with Polonara every single day. Pozzecco views Polonara`s potential presence alongside the team, even off the court, as incredibly significant.
“I don`t know if it will be possible,” Pozzecco acknowledged realistically, recognising the complexities of Polonara`s medical situation. “But I dream of having him with us. It would be a very strong signal.”
For Pozzecco and the entire Italian national team, having Polonara present at EuroBasket would embody a powerful message of unity, resilience, and the unwavering fighting spirit that characterises both the player himself and the national squad. As the Azzurri prepare for their group stage matches in Cyprus with their established coaching staff, the prospect of Polonara`s inspiring presence adds an emotional and motivational layer to their preparations. It serves as a poignant reminder that while the battle Polonara faces is immense, the spirit of the team extends far beyond the game itself, offering support to one of their own during his most challenging fight.
Elton Marrow