Credits IPA Agency
Simone Fontecchio, new face of the Miami Heat, he talked about his feelings on the eve of EuroBasket 2025, where he will once again wear the jersey of Italian National.
The player drew a clear difference between his NBA experience and his experience with the national team:
“The NBA is work, the national team is fun. But without a medal I wouldn’t be happy.”
Fontecchio emphasized that wearing the Italy shirt is first and foremost an honor:
“It’s a responsibility, but above all a privilege. I take it with serenity and happiness, because it’s a role I enjoy. It’s not for everyone, so I embrace it with a great sense of responsibility, pride, and positivity.”
The bond with the blue group is a further point of strength for him:
“I’m on a team with guys I’ve known for 15 years. Representing Italy is a wonderful experience and makes being away from Rosa and the girls less painful.”
The NBA situation
Fontecchio’s future in the NBA was not a given. After the trade that brought him to Miami in the exchange that involved Duncan robinson, there were rumors of a possible cut due to luxury tax issues. The Heat instead sacrificed Haywood Highsmith, thus confirming Fontecchio in the roster.
Last season with the Detroit Pistons played 75 games, closing with 5.9 points, 2.9 rebounds and 0.9 assists on average, proving to be a reliable long-range shooter.
In Miami he does not start as a protagonist in the rotations of Erik spoelstra, but could still provide valuable minutes and offensive solutions from the bench.