'Finally we've changed the coach': Marco Belinelli criticizes Scariolo / News - Basketnews.com

Marco Belinelli, the star sharpshooter of Virtus Segafredo Bologna, did not hide his feelings that the sacking of Sergio Scariolo helped the team and himself.

Credit: Luca Sgamellotti/GettyImages Credit Luca Sgamellotti/GettyImages

The strained relationship between Sergio Scariolo and Marco Belinelli has been apparent for a while now, particularly after an unhappy Virtus Segafredo Bologna stint in the EuroLeague last season.

Marco Belinelli

MIN:23.1PTS:14.28 (49.78%)REB:1.66As:1.81ST:0.41BL:0TO:1.13GM:32ProfileEuroLeague2023/2024

In an episode of the Italian show PASSA DAL BSMT, Bellinelli made his feelings clear about Scariolo's departure at the beginning of this season.

"Finally, we’ve changed the coach," he started with a joke. "No, I always joke… but obviously things have changed."

I'm happy. I've got different eyes, I've got a different fire in me. Probably, the coach last season gave me a lot of motivation to prove him wrong," the Italian veteran explained that Scariolo's attitude helped him to be better motivated.

"And that is what I am trying to prove."

As explained before, the strained relationship between the two men has been well documented. Most recently, Italian basketball legend Gianluca Basile also attacked Scariolo for his treatment of the shooter.

Last season, Belinelli averaged 10 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists. This year, under Luca Banchi, his numbers have improved: 14.3 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists.

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