Olimpia Milano officially began its preseason preparations, and head coach Ettore Messina faced the local press in what marked the first media gathering of the new campaign.
Looking ahead to the upcoming EuroLeague season, Messina touched on expectations but also on broader structural changes in the competition.
He confirmed that there are concrete plans to expand the EuroLeague from 20 to 24 clubs, introducing a two-group system – or, as he noted, “divisions.”
When discussing the balance of power across Europe, Messina acknowledged the favorites but also the fierce level of competition awaiting his team.
“Everyone says the two Greek teams, the Turkish clubs, and Real Madrid are in. So there are five teams, and there’s one spot left for accessing the playoffs directly, and we are not mentioning Barcelona or Monaco. This is the reality of the EuroLeague: everyone has strengthened its roster, and we have expectations, but the teams that demonstrate greater cohesion on and off the court will get the results. It’s a transitional season, as we await the 24 teams in a two-group format. But the format is difficult to accept as of now.”
Messina then turned to more personal and emotional matters, reflecting on the recent passing of Giorgio Armani, whose name and support had been synonymous with the Milan club for decades.
“I obviously want to have a thought for Mr. Armani, even though it’s easier to say platitudes than sensible things under these circumstances. You all know what he meant to this club and to the Italian and European basketball community. Obviously, beyond everything he meant to his profession, our commitment will be to do our best to remember him in the best possible way.”
On the roster front, Messina spoke about his staff and players. He welcomed Peppe Poeta into his coaching staff, underlining the value of having a former player with tactical insight and leadership qualities by his side.
He also stressed the need for caution with players who are coming back from injuries or physical issues. Josh Nebo and Vlatko Čančar will be monitored closely due to their previous injuries, while Marko Gudurić is being carefully managed following tendinitis after his EuroBasket campaign.
Messina highlighted the arrivals of Lorenzo Brown and Quinn Ellis, both of whom are expected to inject energy and depth in the backcourt. Their addition should help Milano in the playmaking department, an area where consistency will be crucial across such a demanding season.
With the EuroLeague evolving and Milano adjusting both emotionally and technically, Messina’s words set the tone: high expectations, a nod to the competition’s challenges, and a clear focus on building unity and resilience.
Coach Messina on the #EuroLeague future: “It’s a transitional season, as we await the 24 teams and a two-group format"https://t.co/TtvHE6buW8
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) September 11, 2025
