Danilo Gallinari Shares All-Star Experience, Future Plans, and Chris Paul Memories

Coaching at Basketball Without Borders

Danilo Gallinari is in Los Angeles for the All-Star Game, but not as a player. The 40 best under-17 talents in the world are in town for Basketball Without Borders, and Gallinari is on the coaching staff. “I’m here to train the kids for three days,” he said. “It’s an incredible experience.”

The Italian forward knows a thing or two about BWB.He participated in the camp’s inaugural edition back in 2003. “It’s amazing to see the level of talent here. These kids are the future of basketball.”

Reflecting on Retirement and Denver Tribute

Gallinari announced his retirement from basketball last November, but he’s still enjoying some farewell tours. Denver thanked him with a beautiful tribute recently.

“It was really nice,” Gallinari recalled. “The arena was full, and they gave me a wonderful surprise. I’ll always thank the Nuggets.”

The Future of Gallo

“What will Danilo Gallinari do when he grows up?”

Gallinari is focusing on family life with three kids, but he wants to stay involved in the NBA. “I’d like to try to make my contribution at a management level,” he said.

He’s also keeping an eye on the NBA as a fan. “Oklahoma City and Denver are the two strongest teams in the West,” he said. “In the East, it’s a bit more difficult to predict, but there are many strong teams. I was recently in New York and it’s nice to see what the team is doing.”

The NBA’s European Ambitions

Rumors are swirling about the NBA setting up shop in Europe. Milan and Rome are reportedly in the mix. Gallinari is excited but not involved in the process.

“I know what we all know, reading a little in the newspapers,” he said. “I imagine that the processes are moving very quickly. I think in the next few months, there will be very important news regarding Milan and Rome.”

Remembering Chris Paul

The news of Chris Paul’s retirement broke recently, and Gallinari shared his thoughts on playing with the future Hall of Famer:

“He was one of the best point guards in NBA history, if not the best, and one of the best players in the world. That year of Covid, we developed a special bond.”

March Madness in Puerto Rico

Gallinari will return to Puerto Rico in March to celebrate his 2022 championship win with Vaqueros. “I’ll be traveling back and forth because I’ll also be a commentator for the Italian women’s national team,” he said.

Gallinari’s Engagement with Basketball Continues

From coaching at BWB to commentating on the Italian women’s national team and celebrating his Puerto Rican championship, Gallinari’s love for basketball remains unwavering. “Family comes first, but I’m excited to see where this next chapter takes me,” he said.

Did you know?

Gallinari was part of the first-ever Basketball Without Borders camp back in 2003.

Pro Tip

Gallinari suggests aspiring coaches look into the BWB program for unparalleled international coaching experience.

Call to Action

What would you like to see from Gallinari’s next chapter? Let us know in the comments!