"I'm planning to play for the Italian national team" - Paolo Banchero reveals intention to represent Italy over the United States
Paolo Banchero has not played for the United States in any youth setup. Banchero, who obtained an Italian passport two years ago, is eligible to play for Italy. He was even selected to the country's 24-man squad for the EuroBasket qualification window in November 2020.
In an appearance on "The Young Person Basketball Podcast with R.J. Hampton," Banchero discussed his Italian heritage. The Orlando Magic rookie explained that his great-great-grandfather and great-grandfather were from Italy, while his grandfather and father were born and raised in Seattle.
"My dad's side is Italian," Banchero said. "His great-grandfather, my great-great grandfather, was born in Italy and then moved all the way to Seattle and built a family there.
"So my father's grandfather and his father they all from Seattle but with Italian roots. You know, growing up, I was always wondering why my name was Paolo Banchero, it was so different from all the other kids."
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Paolo Banchero further explained his desire to play for the Italian national team. Banchero told R.J. Hampton that he's not been selected to play for Team USA during his youth career. He wants to represent Italy and cannot wait to visit the country in the future.
"I'm planning to play for the Italian national team, I'm not sure when," Banchero said. "I haven't been out there yet, but man, the amount of love I'm getting from there, it's crazy, man. It's crazy. I can't wait to go to Italy."
In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport before the season, Paolo Banchero revealed that he wants to make his debut for Italy at the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Banchero has been in contact with Italy assistant coach Riccardo Fois and knows the country's star guard Nico Mannion.
"I've been in contact with coach Riccardo Fois for a while now," Banchero said. "He was at Gonzaga and Arizona, and he worked for the Phoenix Suns in the NBA. I know him and I respect him. When it comes to the players, I have a good connection with Nico Mannion."
Paolo Banchero's great start to his career
Paolo Banchero is off to an amazing start to his NBA career with the Orlando Magic. The No. 1 overall pick is averaging 22.7 points, 7.6 rebounds and 3.9 assists. He's the sixth player in NBA history to score 20 or more points in his first six games.
Banchero's streak ended on Sunday against Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks. He came two points shy of extending his streak to seven games. He finished with 18 points, three rebounds and four assists in the Magic's 114-105 loss. Orlando's record is now 1-6 to start the season.
Despite the Magic's terrible record, they should be happy with Banchero's performance. He's proven already that he's ready for the NBA and the Magic made the right choice to select him first overall.