In an unexpected turn of events, the Italian National Basketball Team faces a significant setback ahead of EuroBasket 2025: NBA standout Donte DiVincenzo of the Minnesota Timberwolves will miss the tournament due to a lingering foot injury. His absence paves the way for Darius Thompson, the Anadolu Efes guard, to join the Azzurri roster.
The Unfortunate Reality: An Injury Too Persistent
The news arrived with a palpable sense of disappointment for both fans and the national team coaching staff. Donte DiVincenzo, a player whose dynamism and scoring prowess were eagerly anticipated, communicated his inability to participate via video. “Unfortunately, I`m sorry I can`t join the National Team this summer due to a physical problem,” DiVincenzo stated, expressing his commitment to future international endeavors, including potential World Cup and Olympic appearances.
Details regarding the injury were elaborated upon by Gigi Datome, coordinator of men`s national team activities, and head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco during a press conference in Milan. Datome revealed that a recurring discomfort in the big toe of DiVincenzo`s left foot, a problem that had previously benched him for several NBA games, resurfaced. Despite initial clearance from his NBA franchise on July 21st for the national team`s work plan, the discomfort intensified just days later.
“To recover, he needs 4-5 weeks of therapy and rest, and the European Championship begins in a month,” Datome explained, underscoring the impossibility of his participation. It`s a rather cruel twist of fate, given the meticulous planning that goes into aligning NBA schedules with international commitments.
Strategic Pivot: Thompson Joins the Ranks
Faced with this critical loss, the Italian Federation wasted no time activating its contingency plan. The focus quickly shifted to securing a `naturalized` player to maintain the team`s strategic balance. Darius Thompson, the accomplished guard from Turkish powerhouse Anadolu Efes, has been confirmed as DiVincenzo`s replacement.
Coach Pozzecco confirmed that Thompson has agreed to join the squad, expected to link up with the team next week in Trieste, where preparation efforts will continue after their initial camp in Folgaria. “We spoke with him,” Pozzecco noted, “and he gave his availability to join us.” This swift response demonstrates the depth and adaptability required at the highest levels of international basketball.
Fan Disappointment and Future Hopes
The news is undoubtedly a letdown for Italian basketball enthusiasts, many of whom were excited at the prospect of seeing an active NBA player don the Azzurri jersey. Pozzecco acknowledged this sentiment directly: “I understand the disappointment of the fans; I felt the excitement to see an NBA athlete play in the Azzurri jersey. The guy was too.”
However, the national team’s leadership remains optimistic about DiVincenzo`s long-term involvement. Pozzecco offered a message of reassurance: “I want to send a message of confidence: it won`t be this summer but you will see DiVincenzo with the National Team jersey. Maybe I won`t be coaching him.” This statement, delivered with a hint of Pozzecco`s characteristic flair, reiterates the forward-looking vision for the team.
Datome echoed the sentiment, recalling DiVincenzo`s eagerness to face Giannis Antetokounmpo and Greece in the EuroBasket opener on August 28th in Cyprus. “Too bad,” Datome concluded, lamenting the missed opportunity for a high-profile debut.
Looking Ahead: Italy`s Resilience Tested
While DiVincenzo`s absence is a significant blow, the Italian National Team, known for its resilience and fighting spirit, will now focus on integrating Thompson and adjusting their game plan. The squad`s commitment to achieving its EuroBasket goals remains unwavering, even as they navigate this unexpected challenge. The true test of a team`s strength often lies not in avoiding obstacles, but in how effectively it overcomes them.
