“He fooled us” – Paolo Banchero gets PUBLICALLY SLAMMED by Italian Basketball Federation for reversing FIBA WC commitment
Italian Basketball Federation expresses disappointment as Paolo Banchero chooses Team USA over Italy, citing family ties and international aspirations.
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Paolo Banchero (GETTY)
Team USA made a major coup recently by securing a commitment from Paolo Banchero, the 2023 NBA Rookie of the Year, to represent them in the highly anticipated FIBA World Cup. However, Banchero’s decision has ignited controversy and drawn public criticism from the Italian Basketball Federation, as he had previously given his word to play for Italy in the prestigious tournament.
President Gianni Petrucci and the Italian Basketball Federation were very clear in expressing their deep disappointment and frustration with Banchero’s sudden change of heart. The decision came as a shock, leaving Italian basketball officials feeling let down.
In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Petrucci expressed his dissatisfaction by stating that the decision was acceptable, but the person responsible could have informed them through a call. Instead, he mentioned that they learned about his decision from the newspapers.
Petrucci said, “Betrayal, especially in basketball, is a strong word,” he said. “Situations like this happen, and personally, I’m used to it. But he fooled us. We were planning a great commercial strategy for him. Now, we need to turn this disappointment into positive energy. I’m sure our coach will be able to do it.”
He further stated that in the past few days, Banchero was in Milan, and despite their agreements with the player’s agency, he avoided the meeting with coach Gianmarco Pozzecco.
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Influence of USA Basketball plays a role in Paolo Banchero’s change of heart
Paolo Banchero did really well in his first year playing in the NBA. He averaged 20 points, grabbed 6.9 rebounds, and dished out 3.7 assists per game for the Orlando Magic. Given his impressive performances, people think he will be crucial for Team USA in the FIBA World Cup. He joins a talented roster that boasts names like Jaren Jackson Jr., Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton, Brandon Ingram, and Jalen Brunson.
While the Italian Basketball Federation feels betrayed by Banchero’s decision, it aligns with his aspirations as an NBA player and his desire to compete on the international stage. Playing in high-pressure situations like FIBA World Cup will help Banchero develop and improve. The Orlando Magic’s rebuilding process still heavily depends on his contributions.
As Banchero gears up to join Team USA for their training camp in August, the Italian Basketball Federation will regroup and refocus their efforts. They aim to turn this disappointment into fuel for their future strategies, while Banchero eagerly anticipates the upcoming challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the FIBA World Cup.
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Abhinav Singh Tomar
(58 Articles Published)