BOLOGNA (Italy) - The Italian basketball world took a stroll down memory lane this week when it marked 100 years of basketball with a memorable jersey presentation ceremony at the Mubit Bologna.
Current national team star Simone Fontecchio was present.
He unveiled the new Italy shirt and then delivered important news.
"I'll be joining the national team in August," Fontecchio said.
"I've already spoken to Coach (Luca) Banchi, reiterating my availability.
"It will be a source of pride, an honor, and a special feeling, as always, especially when I think of those who have worn this jersey before me and see all the legends who are here today.
"It makes me feel even more excited and proud."
Fontecchio, 30, has three years of NBA experience under his belt. He played for the Miami Heat in 2025-26, averaging 8.5 points and shooting 37.5% from 3-point range in 16.7 minutes per game.
For Italy, he has always been one of the most important players. At FIBA EuroBasket 2025, Fontecchio averaged team highs of 16.7 points per game and 5.5 rebounds. He was also second in steals on the team with an average of 1.5 per game.
It will be a source of pride, an honor and a special feeing as always
For Italy to have those two August games, however, they first have to clinch one of the top three spots in Group D of the First Round.
They have collected 3 wins from their four games and lead Lithuania and Iceland (2-2) and Great Britain (1-3) .
Fontecchio is not expected to play when Italy play at Iceland on July 2 and then host Lithuania on July 5.
At the jersey presentation ceremony, meanwhile, national team coach Banchi was on hand as was FIBA Hall of Famer Dino Meneghin, players and coaches from Italy's 1999 EuroBasket title winning team and other greats of Azzurri hoops.
FIBA