"We want to continue on the path we started last November," says Italy captain Luca Vitali
Luca Vitali is ready to step in his role of captain to lead Italy as they resume their journey to qualify for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019
TREVISO (FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 European Qualifiers) - Luca Vitali is ready to step in his role of captain to lead Italy as they resume their journey to qualify for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019.
In the absence of injured Pietro Aradori and Gigi Datome, the 31-year-old has the honor of being the team's leader and could also be set to line up alongside his younger brother, Michele.
"WEARING THE AZZURRI SHIRT IS ALWAYS A HUGE PLEASURE - THE SAME THAT I'VE HAD FOR SO MANY YEARS" Vitali
Vitali has over 100 caps (121 to be precise) to his name and still has the same burning desire to represent his national team.
"Wearing the Azzurri shirt is always a huge pleasure - the same that I've had for so many years," he declared.
When asked about his thoughts on serving as the team's captain, he is quick to give his own perspective.
"The role of captain? I'm keeping the place warm for the comeback of Pietro (Aradori) and Gigione (Datome)," he said.
The Italians edged out Romania 75-70 in their opener in Torino before recording a more convincing 64-80 success away at Croatia in November to sit top of Group D with a 2-0 mark.
And now, Vitali wants his side to push on ahead of the February window, which starts with a home clash with the Netherlands in Treviso on Friday.
"Ours is a young group who did very well in the first window," he reflected. "We want to continue on the path we started last November.
"I hope the people of Treviso can give us so much energy for Friday's game against the Netherlands."
Meanwhile, further opportunities have been presented with Olimpia Armani Milano forward Davide Pascolo earning a re-call to the latest squad as he looks to add experience.
"I'm back in the national team with great enthusiasm," said the 27-year-old. "I cannot consider myself still a 'veteran', but I will try to bring my quality and help the group to forge.
"We try to qualify for the World Cup with a group of young guys, but I see that everyone has started very well in the Qualifiers."
Italy follow Friday's encounter with the Netherlands with a return trip to face Romania on Monday as they look to make it four wins from as many games through the first two windows.
FIBA.