Gigi Datome clarifies his decision to turn down the two new teams in Rome

Gigi Datome, former captain of the Italian national team and now head of the delegation and director of the national teams division—a symbol of Roman basketball—also spoke to *La Gazzetta dello Sport* about the arrival of two new teams in the capital. “I understand everyone’s perspective: the fans, the owners, and those who want to jump on the NBA Europe bandwagon. I’ve closely followed the projects in Rome, and it seems to me that they’re focused on integrating into the local community and taking care of it. If they prove to be successful models, they could also bring benefits to the social fabric.”

Many fans, however, are wondering if there really was a need for two new teams. “It may seem that way today, but there was skepticism about the Lakers, too—they’re called that not because there are lakes in California, but because they’re from Minnesota. Yet today everyone knows them as the Los Angeles Lakers. This is year zero. It’s natural that when people think of Roman basketball, they immediately think of Virtus. Then, if the level of play on the court is high—perhaps not right away but gradually—people will come around. But it’s still all in the early stages, and I, too, am watching this evolution with great curiosity.”

Datome also explains why he chose not to join one of the new Roman projects. “Because I’m very happy with what I’m doing. I feel fulfilled, respected, and I’m learning a great deal. At the Federation, I sense a willingness to help me channel my enthusiasm as a former player into useful experience so I can make a tangible contribution. Furthermore, the results of the grassroots work we’re carrying out with Salvatore Trainotti will become apparent in a few years, and I would have been sorry to interrupt this journey.”