Olimpia Milano: Armoni Brooks’ future between fear and confidence
Olimpia Milano wants to armor Armoni Brooks, in the knowledge, however, that by now it may be too late. This was pointed out by Daniele Baiesi, the meneghini’s sporting director, who took stock of the situation on the complex renewal of the 1998-born American guard, potentially one of the most contested men on the market in the months to come.
On the prospect of his staying at Olimpia Milano, Baiesi spoke to ‘Area 52’ and did not hide: “This is a million-dollar question. I cannot speak for Armoni Brooks, who is currently a contending player. Circumstances led me to be able to reason about his contract only from January onward. And that, in retrospect, was a mistake. And for this mistake I personally take all responsibility.”
The chances of seeing Brooks again in the Lombard capital, however, are far from vanishing. “Dialogue has never failed,” added ds Baiesi. “Just last night the last conversation with the boy’s American agent occurred. His will is to stay, Olimpia Milano’s is to confirm him. I am confident, because he has expressed good feelings. If he stays, however, he will have to do so for the right reasons. If, on the other hand, he leaves, I would respect him and his choice. The career span, after all, is rather limited for everyone.”
After all, the player’s willingness to continue his adventure in the biancorosso had already become clear during the course of the season. In an interview with ‘La Repubblica’ in March, Brooks had bluntly expressed his attachment to the city and the club: “I would be happy to stay, I love the city, it’s a nice place to raise children, and I want my family to be happy. That way it’s easier for me, if they suffer, I suffer too.” Words that had fueled optimism in the Milan environment, but evidently have not yet translated into a contractual agreement.
On the market, there is no shortage of competition to secure Brooks’ performance. From the rumors circulated in recent weeks, several Euroleague clubs would have moved insistently on the American: from Greece, Olympiacos would have expressed interest, while approaches from Spanish clubs would not be excluded. The most recurring name among the suitors, however, is that of Partizan Belgrade, which reportedly knocked firmly on the door of the player’s entourage.
Brooks’ season has amply justified the interest of the European market. The U.S. guard was among the absolute protagonists of the ride that led Olimpia to win the Coppa Italia last February, beating Tortona in the final 85-77: on that occasion he was elected MVP of the tournament, dragging his team in the most delicate moments of the game with very heavy baskets. It was a performance that confirmed his status as a key man for coach Peppe Poeta.
The negotiation for Brooks’ renewal is part of a larger and particularly eventful market picture at Olimpia. The red and white roster is destined for a deep restructuring: Nebo and young Ellis seem ready to leave Milan, while Mannion is also expected to change jersey. On the arrivals front, on the other hand, there is the probable return of Devon Hall, who would have already reached an agreement with the Milanese club after three seasons spent at Fenerbahce, even renouncing a more economically advantageous offer in order to return to wear the red and white. In this transitional scenario, armoring Brooks would represent a sign of continuity that is fundamental to building the Olimpia of the future.
