How 9 Timberwolves can benefit from the 2023 FIBA WC competition
By Bret Stuter
Italy
While not an official member of the Minnesota Timberwolves just yet, young point guard Matteo Spagnolo has one more year of contractual obligations to compete in the Euroleague before his arrival in the NBA is an option. So, as it stands now, young point guard Matteo Spagnolo is likely destined to join the Minnesota Timberwolves for the 2024-25 NBA season
Congratulations, Matteo! pic.twitter.com/LTr9KKD4g0
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) July 25, 2023
While the Minnesota Timberwolves are content to patiently await Matteo Spagnolo’s arrival, the team did get a sneak preview when he competed for the 2022 Minnesota Timberwolves Summer League team. While he showed some promise last year, it was clear that Spagnolo would be well served with more experience.
The Minnesota Timberwolves pulled the ole' Draft-N-Stash with SG Matteo Spagnolo. So which team will Spagnolo play for this year? How can you keep him on your radar? Here's what you need to know: #RaisedByWolves #Timberwolves
— Dunking With Wolves (@DunkingWolvesFS) July 28, 2022
(via @milroyigglesfan) https://t.co/hAjQWaDHdG pic.twitter.com/0bJme69Nv9
Even now, the value of Matteo Spagnolo’s stock continues to rise. While he continues to improve his perimeter shot and his proficiency in distributing the basketball effectively, he is still only 20 years old and has many years of solid NBA play ahead of him. A solid showing in the 2023 FIBA World Cup competition would be a strong indication that he is ready for the challenges that await him in the NBA next season.
Team Italy will face Team Angola on August 25, 2023. Team Italy will next compete against Team Dominican Republic on August 27, 2023. Finally, Team Italy will face Team Philipines on August 29, 2023.