Bologna, Italy — The basketball world has long known Marco Belinelli as a sharpshooting guard, an NBA champion, and an undisputed icon of Italian hoops. Now, a new chapter unfolds, presenting Belinelli not in a jersey, but in a tailored suit, as he officially steps into his role as ambassador for Virtus Bologna. This pivotal transition was announced during the unveiling of Virtus’s new Olidata jersey for the upcoming Serie A season, marking a significant moment for both the club and its legendary former captain.
From Court Commander to Corporate Catalyst
Donning a sharp grey suit and exuding a calm, managerial demeanor, Belinelli addressed the press with an air of thoughtful reflection. “It feels strange,” he admitted, acknowledging the shift from intensely competitive player to strategic representative. “But the time had come. In this new role, I aim to be a significant contributor.” His words convey a blend of humility and determination, a trademark of his illustrious career.
The role of an ambassador, particularly for a club with Virtus Bologna’s storied history, is multifaceted. It involves representing the team’s values, engaging with fans, fostering partnerships, and inspiring the next generation. Belinelli views it as an exciting frontier: “It’s a world to discover. I will strive to bring my experience and advance many of my projects. With Virtus, there’s an ambitious plan.” When playfully pressed on whether this meant becoming “the man behind a desk,” Belinelli merely smiled, suggesting his involvement would be far more dynamic than static paperwork. One might envision him trading baseline cuts for strategic cuts, but with the same precision.
A Legacy Forged in Glory
Marco Belinelli’s journey to this new role is paved with remarkable achievements. He is the only Italian player ever to hoist the NBA championship trophy, a feat accomplished with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014. This unique distinction cemented his status not just in Italy, but globally, as a player of elite caliber. His career, which began in the youth ranks of Virtus Bologna before a stint with rivals Fortitudo, saw him move to the NBA in 2007, where he spent 13 seasons.
His return to Italy and to Virtus Bologna in 2020 marked a triumphant homecoming. He concluded his playing career on an undeniable high note, leading Virtus to the Serie A title in 2020/21 and again in 2024/25. In the season prior to his retirement, at the age of 38, he was crowned the league’s MVP, a testament to his enduring skill and leadership. Such a decorated career doesn`t simply end; it transforms.
Belinelli’s retirement announcement in August was a heartfelt moment, shared through a poignant social media post that featured childhood memories and career highlights. He reflected,
“I poured my heart into it. Every single fiber of my being. Every single day. Basketball gave me everything… and I gave everything to it.”
This deep connection to the sport is precisely what makes him an ideal ambassador – a figure who embodies the passion and dedication required to reach the pinnacle of basketball.
The Future and a “Crazy Idea”
While his official playing days are over, the competitive spirit evidently still lingers. During the event, the topic of a “crazy idea” floated by his friend and fellow former NBA player, Andrea Bargnani, was raised: forming a 3×3 team with Belinelli and Danilo Gallinari. Belinelli, ever the pragmatist, offered a gentle shake of the head and a smile. “We have a great relationship; he lives under the Two Towers, we see each other often,” he acknowledged, referring to Bologna’s iconic landmarks. However, for 3×3, at least for now, “it`s not the time.” His focus is squarely on the evolving project with Virtus.
The presentation also highlighted the new Virtus jerseys, a collaboration with Olidata that emphasizes “strength and determination, focusing on Made in Italy excellence and deep roots with the territory.” Cristiano Rufini, President of Olidata, articulated the ambitious vision for the LBA season, aiming for “important goals that only a few years ago seemed unreachable.” Belinelli`s presence serves as a powerful symbol of this ambition, a living testament to what can be achieved with talent, perseverance, and a deep connection to the game.
As Marco Belinelli steps into this new, uncharted territory, his transition marks more than just a change of role; it signifies the evolution of a legend. From a boy with a dream nurtured in his bedroom to an NBA champion and now a strategic figurehead, Belinelli`s journey continues to inspire. The specifics of his ambassadorial duties may still be unfolding, but one thing is certain: his experience, charisma, and profound understanding of basketball will undoubtedly enrich Virtus Bologna and Italian basketball for years to come.
