Minnesota Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo was recently granted Italian citizenship on a sporting basis, allowing him to represent Italy internationally.
However, he announced via the Italian basketball federation’s Twitter that he will miss this summer’s EuroBasket due to a “physical issue” that arose as he prepared for the tournament.
“What’s up everyone? I just wanted to say how happy and thankful I am and excited I am to finally become an Italian citizen,” the player said (via Alessandro Maggi of Sportando).
“Unfortunately, I’m sorry I will not be able to join the national team this summer due to a physical issue… But my goal remains the same… World Cup and the Olympics, and for a very long time.”
At a press conference, Italy’s coordinator Gigi Datome explained that DiVincenzo felt pain in his left big toe – the same injury that caused him to miss 19 games last season.
“Donte was resuming training, but between 22 and 23 July, he felt discomfort in his big toe,” Datome said. Doctors recommended three to four months of therapy, making EuroBasket participation impossible.
Despite concerns, The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski reports the Timberwolves consider this a precaution and expect DiVincenzo ready for next season’s start.
Wolves' Donte DiVincenzo To Miss EuroBasket For Italy https://t.co/qgaTBBKQLf pic.twitter.com/hLqweizLdt
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) July 30, 2025
