Italy National Team Prepares for Crucial World Cup Qualifier Against Great Britain
The Italian national basketball team is gearing up for a critical pair of matches against Great Britain in the 2027 World Cup Qualifiers. Luca Banchi’s squad will first compete on Friday evening in Newcastle, followed by a second game on Monday in Livorno.
Return to Livorno
This marks a return to Livorno for the national team, having previously hosted a home match against Ukraine for three years. The Azzurri previously defeated Ukraine 85-75, a game highlighted by a 28-point performance from Nico Mannion.
Milano Players Join the Team
Luca Banchi will have immediate access to several players from Olimpia Milano. count immediately on Mannion
and also Diego Flaccadori and Stefano Tonut, who will not participate with their club in the Euroleague away match against Hapoel Tel Aviv.
Roster Update
Currently, the Italian team includes Giordano Bortolani, Davide Casarin, Andrea Calzavara, Amedeo Della Valle, John Petrucelli, Marco Spissu, Luigi Suigo, Amedeo Tessitori, Giovanni Veronesi, and Luca Vincini. The team is also working with young players Charles Atamah, Leonardo Marangon, Cheickh Niang, and Luca Possamai. Unfortunately, Sasha Grant has had to withdraw from the rally due to a muscle problem.
Qualifying Implications
These two games against Great Britain are vital for the qualification process. The Azzurri need a double victory after a previous setback in their home debut against Iceland and a subsequent win in Lithuania. The top three teams in the group will advance to the next phase, carrying their points forward from this initial stage.
Luca Banchi’s Recent Coaching History
Luca Banchi most recently coached Anadolu Efes, taking over midway through the season and nearly leading them to the EuroLeague Final Four. He previously coached Virtus Bologna, winning the Italian Supercup in 2023. He resigned from Virtus Bologna on December 5, 2024, after a 2-11 start in the EuroLeague.
“But I can’t wait to start”
Luca Banchi
FAQ
- When are the games against Great Britain? Friday evening in Newcastle and Monday in Livorno.
- Who are the Olimpia Milano players joining the national team? Nico Mannion, Diego Flaccadori, and Stefano Tonut.
- Why did Sasha Grant leave the rally? Due to a muscle problem.
The upcoming matches represent a significant challenge for Italy as they strive to secure their place in the next phase of the World Cup Qualifiers. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, Luca Banchi’s team is focused on achieving a positive result against Great Britain.