Andrea , first of all, how are you?" I'm fine now . Pneumonia is passed. it was a great misfortune in addition to those that the National already had this summer . "
How hungry you were after two difficult years, to prove yourself ?
" I wanted to play basketball, not to prove anything . I just wanted to be on the floor, play many games in the Euro Championships expecially after two years full of injuries. I wanted to play basketball with my Italian friends. Unfortunately I will have to wait a little longer ' . Too bad because I was fine and ready: I had worked without problems and I was starting to get in good shape.
The NT Coach spoke of " damned summer" after many injuries
"I agree with him ,it's definitely a damned summer. Simone (Pianigiani the NT coach) is in a difficult situation : as manager losing piece by piece the most important players on your team it is definitely not fun. The group was great : we were working well and we all want to win every game. But sport is also this. It means that there will be an opportunity for others to show off. I think about the young players, Melli and Gentile , of which we talk so much . It has to be their chance . "
What can do this Italy?
"The team has talent , potential and is still very valid . There is Belinelli , there is Gigli , there are very strong players . The physical size was missing from the start. And so you have to make a big effort to play always fast and shooting very well from the field. I think that in this Euro Championships the shooting percentages will be fundamental for us , since we are a small team that runs a lot and will have to play on a fastbreak style. Shooting well will be decisive , especially against teams physically stronger . Where can we (Italy) arrive I do not know : we need to see how much we will pay the physical factor . "
From whom do you expect a great contribution ?
" Playmaking will be the key factor. Cinciarini and Diener are the PGs who dictate the rythm. This team will have to run and play as a team, then it becomes crucial the role of the "playmakers" which also Belinelli can do in certain situations. "
You're going to Slovenia to cheer ?
" I'd love to do it. But until Tuesday, I could not even leave the house , so I depend a lot on what the doctors tell me . If they give me the okay to take the plane I will go there , but still it depends on the diagnosis of the doctors . "
On 30 September will start your new adventure with the New York Knicks: how will you be at that time?
" Right now I'm completely stopped, I'll begin to train as soon as I get the go-ahead by doctors. But I want so much to get ready at the start of training camp . " - See more at: http://forums.realgm.com/boards/viewtopic.php?f=24&t=1272104#sthash.lZz5pOXd.dpuf
Saw this on realgm. It is a bit concerning that he isn't able to workout.
8/31/2013 11:08 PM
I know it's hard, but that's the only way he can stay healthy. I remember my 3 kids always getting strep throat or some other rough sickness and i'd try to stay in my den and let their mom take care of it. This way I didn't miss work.