The president of the Italian basketball federation has recently spoken about the decision of Paolo Banchero, who has given the “yes” to Team USA to play the next World Cup 2023.
Banchero, who admitted wanting to play for Italy because of his father’s roots, has finally made a 180-degree turn in his decision, and will be placed under Steve Kerr’s orders from August.
“It’s a totally legitimate decision, but he could have made a call to let me know,” Gianni Petrucci said. “Instead we learned of his decision through the press. In recent days he was in Milan, and despite our agreements with his representation agency, he avoided meeting with the coach Pozzeco », he explained.
“Betrayal is a pretty strong word for basketball. Situations like this happen very often. I am used to it. But he has deceived us. We were preparing a grand strategy around it. But now we have to turn this decision into positive energy. I am sure that our coach will know how to do it, “he added.
As reported by the media ESPN In this regard, Banchero’s maternal family has had a lot to do with his decision to play for the United States.
Banchero’s mother, Rhonda Smith-Banchero, was involved with Team USA as a player. She was a star at the University of Washington, and that played a role in her decision,” said journalist Brian Windhorst.
In his debut course in the NBA, he averaged 20 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.7 assists per day, winning the Best Rookie of the Year award and being part of the Best Rookie Quintet.
(Cover photo: Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
