Coach Simone Pianigiani addressed the media at the beginning of his second season as the Olimpia head coach: “We begin to work in a very positive atmosphere for evident reason. Last year we were a completely new team. Now we have the methodology, the culture that everyone can relate to. That’s important because we need to perform immediately, that’s what being part of Olimpia means. We have all the players, which is unusual at this time, every one of them is in good shape and so we can establish a lot of basketball things early. It’s crucial because next week several guys will leave for the National Teams activities. Right now we have 13 players: based on EuroLeague standards they are not many but we can handle every situation because many of them are interchangeable, are capable to play different positions and all have the desire to perform and be part of this team. Micov last season was playing heavy minutes every time. His role is still crucial for this team, he’s still the best at understanding the coaching staff during the game, but we have the resources to give up some of his reading ability sometimes in order to use different options, like Kuzminskas and Brooks together or Fontecchio at the 3 so to be bigger. Coaching here is a big motivation in itself and every day you feel it better on your skin. This place is special. You look at the banners and see 28 titles, then it’s starting to form the idea of being the one leading the team to the third star (title number 30). I feel right at home”.

You can take a look at the entire press conference by clicking here.