Minnesota Timberwolves sharpshooter Donte DiVincenzo has moved closer to joining the Italian national basketball team this summer after being granted Italian citizenship by the Council of Ministers. This approval enables Italy to include him in international competitions, such as the upcoming FIBA EuroBasket. The Council’s decision was supported by Italy’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani and Minister of Sports and Youth, following a proposal from the Minister of Home Matteo Piantedosi.
DiVincenzo had expressed his desire to obtain Italian citizenship earlier, aiming to play for Italy in international tournaments. He noted in April that representing Italy felt like a great honor, and he was simply waiting for the official paperwork. His pursuit of Italian citizenship dates back to his college days at Villanova when he considered his NBA prospects unrealistic. However, after impressing in his junior and senior years, he was drafted 17th overall in 2018.
Although DiVincenzo’s bid for citizenship came too late for the 2024 Paris Olympics, the recent clearance allows him to compete for Italy in the EuroBasket tournament scheduled for late August. While the final roster has yet to be announced, DiVincenzo could potentially join fellow former NBA players Danilo Gallinari, Nicolò Melli, and Nico Mannion. This may be Gallinari’s final appearance for Italy as he has hinted at retirement following EuroBasket. Italy will be facing teams including Cyprus, Georgia, Spain, Greece, and Bosnia and Herzegovina in Group C.
Fan Take: This development is significant for basketball enthusiasts as it not only strengthens Italy’s national team with an NBA-caliber player but also highlights the growing international influence of players like DiVincenzo. It showcases how basketball is becoming more global, with talent crossing borders to elevate the sport in international competitions.
