Fresh off winning his first-ever professional championship title, veteran forward Danilo Gallinari has officially linked up with the Italian national team’s training camp in preparation for FIBA EuroBasket 2025.
His arrival brings both excitement and leadership to Gianmarco Pozzecco’s squad, but it also coincides with difficult roster decisions.
For every new addition, there are also painful departures. Two players have been cut from the national team setup in recent days. Luca Severini exited camp yesterday, and today it was confirmed that Stefano Tonut will also miss out.
The Olimpia Milano guard has been sidelined after sustaining a muscle strain in the medial gastrocnemius of his right leg, ending his hopes of competing this summer.
Head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco expressed both admiration and sorrow when speaking about Tonut’s situation:
“Stefano is an example of dedication and attachment to the National Team jersey. After Bologna, he wanted at all costs to stay with us to try to recover in time for EuroBasket.”
However, the calendar was unforgiving.
“His willpower is moving, but the timing is cruel. Unfortunately, he is forced to give up on this dream of his, and with great regret, we too are forced to give him up. We are sincerely sorry,” Pozzecco added.
For Tonut, the setback carries even greater weight given his long-standing commitment to the Azzurri.
Since making his debut in 2016, he has been a near-constant presence, suiting up for Italy nearly every summer and playing a role in the team’s most recent international campaigns.
His absence will be felt not only on the court but also in the locker room, where his professionalism and devotion to the jersey have set a standard for his teammates.
Stefano Tonut won't play for Italy at FIBA #EuroBasket 2025 🇮🇹
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) August 19, 2025
Olimpia Milano's guard needs to recover from a muscle strain injury:https://t.co/STGJmDkonV
