Gigi Datome criticizes FIBA windows: 'A summer-only activity would be better' / News - Basketnews.com

Luigi Datome thinks that national teams playing only during the summer would lead to a better product on the court. The forward invites all involved sides to sit down and talk because he thinks the current system is not the best solution.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Luigi Datome is probably the most experienced player on the Italian national team's roster. He's been part of eight major international tournaments wearing the blue-and-white uniform and is now expected to lead the team after Danilo Gallinari went down with an injury that forced him to miss EuroBasket 2022.

Luigi Datome

Team:AX Armani Exchange MilanPosition:SFAge:34Height:203 cmWeight:100 kgBirth place:Montebelluna, ItalyProfileNewsStatistics

"EuroBasket doesn't add anything to his career but Danilo was very keen on it, especially at home," Datome explained in an interview with Tuttosport. "We are missing a key player, we saw how much he shifted the balance. Each of us will have to give something more."

Datome has been a vocal opponent of the FIBA windows ever since they were introduced several years ago. This time wasn't any different.

"There are always preparatory matches for EuroBasket but a World Cup Qualification is played with a different spirit, energy. I understand the reasons but it doesn't seem like the best solution," he told.

"I have already expressed myself in the past. I understand the needs of the national teams and the federations," Datome continued. "I reiterate the invitation for all to sit around a table and find a solution. A summer-only activity would also lead to a better product on the court."

Italy will compete in Group C of EuroBasket 2022 together with Croatia, Greece, Estonia, Ukraine, and Great Britain. The team's first match is scheduled against Estonia on Friday.

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