Basket Magazine 104 has finally hit the newsstands, marking an exciting start to the year.
The issue kicks off with an editorial by Director Mario Arceri, who delves into the recent FIP elections and the appointment of Gianni Petrucci for his sixth term. The magazine then dives into the highlights of this edition.
COVERS – The first issue of 2025 features an exclusive interview by Matteo De Rosa with Justin Robinson, the driving force behind the Sharks’ rise to the top, igniting dreams across Trapani. Simultaneously occurring,the Emilia Romagna edition spotlights Dusko Ivanovic,the Montenegrin coach shaping Virtus into a Euroleague powerhouse. Eugenio Petrillo provides insights into Ivanovic’s early days in Bologna, his methods, and fascinating anecdotes from his illustrious career. The cover also celebrates Alpino Biancoblu’s Riccardo Bolpin,complemented by an in-depth interview with Diego Costa.
POSTER – This issue includes three stunning posters. The first showcases Zach Leday, who has returned to Olimpia Milano as a prodigal son, reigniting the dreams of Italian basketball fans. The local edition highlights Basket City’s warriors: Toko shengelia and Deshawn Freeman, the Lion Kings of Virtus and Fortitudo.These visuals, captured by Ciamillo-Castoria and enhanced by Stefano Arciero’s innovative graphics, are a collector’s delight.
THE CHARACTERS – Miro Bilan opens up to Matteo Airoldi about his ambitions to make Brescia a basketball hub. Momo Faye, in conversation with Massimo Furlani, shares his aspirations alongside Senegal’s rising stars Diop and Camara. Mirza Alibegovic,in a heartfelt dialog with Alessandro di Bari,reflects on his family legacy and his mission to lead Udine to Serie A. On the women’s side, coach Andrea Capobianco discusses his vision and current challenges with Chiara Morbio. Across the Atlantic, Carlo Ferrario analyzes Simone Fontecchio’s pivotal season with ItalBasket.
THE STORIES – The issue features Rinascita Rimini, a team reborn and now eyeing Serie A. Matteo Briolini’s reportage includes insights from Paolo Carasso, the mastermind behind the Romagna squad, and Gora Camara, a rising star. Valerio Laurenti explores Virtus Roma 1960 and LUISS’s quest for Serie A glory. The women’s basketball spotlight shines on La Molisana Magnolia Campobasso, with Matteo Magagnoli capturing the team’s journey and future ambitions, including their victories over Schio and Venice. Sara Scalia, a WNBA star with Italian roots, also shares her thoughts.
THE INVESTIGATIONS – Antonio Catalano examines Varese’s struggle for survival, gathering perspectives from toto Bulgheroni, Meo sacchetti, and Toni Cappellari. Another investigation tackles the over-reliance on three-point shooting in modern basketball, featuring insights from legends like Antonello Riva and Amedeo Della Valle, as well as emerging talents like Giovani Veronesi.
I FOCUS – Marco Arcari, Matteo Cazzulani, and elio de Falco explore the Euroleague journeys of Olimpia Milano, Paris Basketball, and Real Madrid, drawing parallels with their football counterparts’ underwhelming performances despite heavy investments. Matteo Cappelli analyzes the evolving NBA-Europe dynamic, while Raffaele Garinelli deciphers the resurgence of Donovan Mitchell and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The issue also includes columns from renowned contributors: Fabrizio Pungetti’s “Notes of the Month” on Serie A’s quirks, Toni Cappellari’s “So and If You Like,” Gek Galanda’s “Parola di Gek,” Carlo Fallica’s “Roman Observatory,” and Francesco Rizzo’s “Basketball at the cinema.”
This first issue of 2025 is a fireworks display of basketball excellence, packed with must-read content. We invite you to grab your copy at the newsstands and join us in celebrating the sport we love. Your continued support inspires us to keep raising the bar.
Happy reading, BM friends, and once again, Happy New Year!
Second poster features teh dynamic duo of Virtus Bologna, Marco Belinelli and Milos Teodosic, whose chemistry on the court has been pivotal in the team’s recent successes. The third poster highlights the rising star of Italian basketball, Riccardo Bolpin, whose journey from Alpino Biancoblu to becoming a household name is nothing short of inspirational.
FEATURES – The magazine offers a thorough analysis of the current state of Italian basketball, with a special focus on the Serie A and Euroleague competitions. Matteo De Rosa’s interview with Justin Robinson provides a deep dive into the strategies and mindset that have propelled the Sharks to the top of the league. Robinson’s leadership and vision are dissected, offering readers a glimpse into what makes a successful team tick.
On the coaching front, Eugenio Petrillo’s piece on Dusko Ivanovic is a masterclass in understanding the intricacies of basketball coaching. From his early days in Bologna to his current role as the architect of Virtus’ Euroleague ambitions, Ivanovic’s methods and philosophies are explored in detail. The article also includes fascinating anecdotes from his career, providing a personal touch to the narrative.
COMMENTARY – The editorial by Director Mario Arceri sets the tone for the issue, reflecting on the recent FIP elections and the reappointment of Gianni Petrucci for his sixth term. Arceri’s insights into the political landscape of Italian basketball are both informative and thought-provoking, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at the decisions that shape the sport.
SPECIAL SECTIONS – The magazine also includes a special section dedicated to the youth growth programs in Italy, with a focus on how these initiatives are shaping the future of Italian basketball. Interviews with coaches, players, and administrators provide a 360-degree view of the efforts being made to nurture the next generation of talent.
CONCLUSION – Basket Magazine 104 is a must-read for any basketball enthusiast. With its blend of in-depth interviews, insightful commentary, and stunning visuals, it offers a comprehensive look at the world of Italian basketball.Whether you’re a fan of the Sharks, Virtus Bologna, or simply a lover of the game, this issue has something for everyone.
As the year unfolds, the stories and insights from this edition will undoubtedly serve as a reference point for the ongoing narrative of Italian basketball. The dreams ignited by Justin Robinson, the strategies of Dusko Ivanovic, and the rise of young stars like Riccardo Bolpin are all threads in the rich tapestry of the sport. Basket Magazine 104 captures these moments with the professionalism and depth that fans have come to expect,making it a standout edition in the magazine’s storied history.
