Ettore Messina denies possibility of taking over the Italian NT / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: BasketNews/D. Repečka Credit BasketNews/D. Repečka

La Gazzetta dello Sport reported today that the head coach of AX Armani Exchange Milan, Ettore Messina, has agreed to regain coaching honors for the Italian national team.

2-pointers this season

53%18,2Points made:18,2Accuracy:52,6%Place in standings:15Record max:25Record min:13Most made 2FGs:Shavon ShieldsTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

The current coach for Italy, Meo Sachetti's contract with the team will expire after the 2022 EuroBasket, leaving an opening for Messina.

However, the 62-year-old specialist has publically denied the possibility of taking over the Italian NT.

"I'm annoyed by the fact that after 30 years of career there's someone capable of speculating that I'll be able to plan on stealing the job to a colleague like Sacchetti, who did a great job bringing Italy to the Olympic games and will do a great job also for the future," Messina said to the Italian press agency ANSA.

He also emphasized his focus towards working in Olimpia Milano: "My goal is keeping Mr. Armani's trust and to be able to deserve the confirmation for the years coming."

Messina has been the head coach for the Italian NT from 1993 to 1997 and from 2015 to 2017. The specialist led his nation to silver medals at the 1997 EuroBasket.

Messina began coaching Milan in 2019 after signing a three-year contract with the Italian powerhouse.

Like what we are doing? You can express your gratitude here.