Paolo Banchero about World Cup 2023: 'It's my goal' / News - Basketnews.com

Paolo Banchero says he has a good connection with Nico Mannion of the Italian national team.

Credit: USA TODAY Sports-Scanpix Credit USA TODAY Sports-Scanpix

After reaching the quarterfinals phase at the Olympic Games in 2021 and EuroBasket this year, Italy is now focusing on the FIBA World Cup 2023, which will be hosted by Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Paolo Banchero

Position:PFAge:19Height:208 cmWeight:113 kgBirth place:United States of AmericaProfileNewsStatistics

Italy's best hope to improve the team is Paolo Banchero, the No. 1 pick in the 2022 NBA draft.

"It [World Cup] is my goal. I cannot guarantee that I'll be there 100% since I still have to start my first NBA season, but it's something that I'm thinking about. When the moment comes, I'll make a decision," Banchero toldLa Gazzetta dello Sport.

"I've been in contact with coach Riccardo Fois for a while now. He was at Gonzaga and Arizona, and he worked for the Phoenix Suns in the NBA. I know him and I respect him," the 19-year-old commented on the relationship with the Italian national team.

"When it comes to the players, I have a good connection with Nico Mannion. He's a West Coast kid just like me, and played in the same tournaments I've been in. We exchanged texts on social media, I congratulated him for how well he's been playing with the national team. I'm curious to see how far he can go," Banchero added.

Orlando Magic talent also touched on FIBA EuroBasket 2022.

"I couldn't watch any game live because here, in the US, the games were broadcasted in inconvenient moments of the day. But I watched a lot of highlights, especially the ones from the game between Italy and Serbia. I followed the national team and I'm proud of how they played and fought during the tournament," Banchero said.

Last but not least, he was asked about the picture with the Italian flag at the Magic training camp.

"I didn't bring the flag but when I saw it, I decided to take a picture with it and show my respect."

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