The hoops world is buzzing with news that NBA guard Donte DiVincenzo has officially obtained Italian citizenship, a move that could significantly bolster the Italian national team`s prospects ahead of the upcoming EuroBasket championship. The clock is now ticking for the Minnesota Timberwolves player and the Italian basketball federation to navigate the final bureaucratic steps and gain clearance from his NBA club in time for the tournament tip-off in late August.
This isn`t just a formality; it`s a significant development confirmed by none other than the Italian Council of Ministers. Acting on proposals from key government figures – Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, and Sports Minister Andrea Abodi – the Council deliberated to propose conferring Italian citizenship upon DiVincenzo for “special merits.” This official recognition underlines the strategic importance placed on bringing the 28-year-old sharpshooter into the national team fold.
Sports Minister Andrea Abodi has already put speculation about DiVincenzo`s willingness to rest, stating the player has “already manifested his enthusiasm to wear the Azzurro jersey.” This stands in contrast to what some might recall from past situations involving potential dual-national players – a subtle nod to different outcomes without getting into specifics. DiVincenzo reportedly wants to play for Italy, which is half the battle, perhaps even more.
However, enthusiasm alone won`t get him on the court for Italy`s opening EuroBasket game against Greece on August 28th. While the citizenship itself is granted, there are still administrative procedures to finalize, and crucially, the Minnesota Timberwolves must give their blessing. International play requires coordination with NBA teams, and ensuring all parties are aligned adds another layer of complexity to this race against time.
For those unfamiliar with Donte DiVincenzo`s game, the potential addition is tantalizing. Known for his potent three-point shooting and winning pedigree, he`s a player who knows how to contribute on big stages. His collegiate career at Villanova included two NCAA national championships (2016, 2018), where he earned the coveted Most Outstanding Player award in 2018. He followed that by winning an NBA championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021. Along the way, he`s picked up nicknames like “Michael Jordan of Delaware” (perhaps a slight exaggeration, but certainly a compliment) and, more fittingly for his heritage, “The Big Ragù.” Since entering the NBA in 2018, he`s also played for the Sacramento Kings, Golden State Warriors, and New York Knicks before landing with the Timberwolves.
Bringing a player of DiVincenzo`s caliber and championship experience into the Italian national team would undoubtedly provide a significant lift. The hope is that all the necessary pieces will fall into place swiftly, turning potential into reality. If the bureaucracy cooperates and the Timberwolves agree, the future of Italian basketball might indeed be looking a little more “Azzurro” very soon.
