After a long process, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo has officially been granted Italian citizenship and thus will be allowed to play for Italy in the upcoming EuroBasket. DiVincenzo was born and grew up in Delaware; however, he has Italian heritage and has long wanted to represent Italy.
Notably, DiVincenzo wanted to play for Italy in the 2024 Olympics; now he’ll be able to represent Italy in a different international setting. He also tried to receive Italian citizenship while playing college ball at Villanova. It’s nice to see that this dream has finally been fulfilled for DiVincenzo.
DiVincenzo is set to represent Italy
EuroBasket tips off on August 27th, with Italy’s first game being on the 28th against Giannis Antetokounmpo and Greece. In addition to Greece, Italy will compete against Cyprus, Georgia, Spain, and Bosnia and Herzegovina in Group C of EuroBasket. Alongside DiVincenzo, Italy’s EuroBasket roster includes Simone Fontecchio of the Miami Heat, and former NBA players Danilo Gallinari, Nico Mannion, and Nicolo Melli.
Of course, EuroBasket isn’t as prestigious as the Olympics or even the FIBA World Cup. Regardless, it’s an honor, and many prominent NBA players participate in it. Now that DiVincenzo has Italian citizenship, he’ll likely represent Italy in the 2027 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics if Italy qualifies. Needless to say, DiVincenzo is a massive boost to the Italian National team.
DiVincenzo is a key part of the Wolves
DiVincenzo’s blend of shooting, playmaking, and shot creation makes him a key part of the Wolves' success. In his first season with the Wolves, DiVincenzo averaged 11.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists with 42.2/39.7/77.8 shooting splits. The 6-foot-4 guard will continue to play a pivotal role with the Wolves as they aim to compete for a title. Much of the discussion has been about how young players like Terrence Shannon Jr. and Rob Dillingham will play bigger roles with Nickeil Alexander-Walker departing in free agency. However, DiVincenzo is also primed to play a more important role.
His shooting and self-creation abilities are especially vital off the bench for Minnesota. Some may see adding mileage before the season as a negative for DiVincenzo and the Wolves. However, the positive side is that he can build some momentum before the season starts. Notably, Rudy Gobert and Joan Beringer will not be playing for France in EuroBasket. Overall, Wolves fans should be excited to see someone from their team playing in EuroBasket.