Why did Paolo Banchero chooses Team USA over Italy?

By Jayson Panganiban April 07, 2024 11:45

Photo by Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images

Paolo Banchero, the talented forward for the Orlando Magic, faced a pivotal decision on which country to represent in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

The choice between Italy and the United States came with significant personal and emotional considerations, ultimately leading Banchero to opt for Team USA over Team Italy.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Paolo Banchero (@paolo5)

Dual Citizenship and Family Background

Banchero's eligibility to play for both Italy and the United States stems from his unique family background. His father, Mario, is Italian, and his mother, Rhonda, is an American basketball star who played professionally and represented the US national team.
The decision was complicated by the strong ties he had to both countries through his parents, as well as the emotional influence of his family's heritage.

Personal Role Models and Influences

Banchero's mother, Rhonda, played a significant role in shaping his decision. Her illustrious career as a basketball star, including representing the US national team, had a profound impact on Paolo.
His admiration for his mother's achievements and the influence of her basketball career played a crucial role in his decision-making process.

Coach K's Involvement

Renowned coaching legend Mike Krzyzewski, also known as Coach K, played a pivotal role in Banchero's decision. When Banchero initially intended to represent Italy, Coach K intervened and asked him to reconsider, labeling the decision as a "hard decision".
This intervention from Coach K likely carried significant weight in Banchero's final choice, especially considering Coach K's esteemed reputation and experience in international basketball.

Consideration of Past Players' Choices

Banchero cited the case of Kyrie Irving, who also had dual citizenship and chose to represent the USA over Australia, winning gold for the US national team in the 2016 Summer Olympics. This example, among others, was a factor that Banchero pondered when making his decision.

Emotional Impact and Personal Connection

The emotional resonance of representing the country of his mother, who inspired and influenced him greatly, was a significant factor in Banchero's decision to don the Team USA jersey.
The deep personal connection to his American heritage and the opportunity to continue the legacy of his mother's basketball journey played a pivotal role in his final choice.

Italian Federation's Reaction

The Italian Basketball Federation expressed disappointment and labeled Banchero's decision as a "betrayal". The federation had high hopes of securing Banchero's talent for the Italian national team, and his eventual choice to represent the United States sparked frustration and dismay within the federation.

Ultimately, Paolo Banchero's decision to choose Team USA over Italy was a complex and deeply personal choice influenced by his family background, personal role models, influential figures such as Coach K, and the emotional resonance of representing the country of his mother.

While his choice may have sparked disappointment in certain quarters, it ultimately reflects the deeply personal and multifaceted nature of international sports representation.