By John Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Danilo Gallinari was initially expected to take part in some friendly games with the Italian national team to gear up for the 2019 FIBA World Cup. However, Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that he will probably miss all prep matches. The 31-year-old forward that underwent appendectomy last week was examined by on Oklahoma City Thunder doctor in Italy.
Luigi Datome is also out. He is still rehabbing after his knee injury. According to the latest report on the Italian players available, the 31-year-old forward is expected to play in his national team’s final tune-up games versus Serbia, France and New Zealand, set to take place in China after August 23rd.
The situation is certainly not ideal, but Italy will further the preparations for the World Cup through the Verona Cup and the Acropolis International Tournament, before traveling to China. Following the eight remaining friendly games, the Italians will face the Philippines, Angola and Serbia between August 31st and September 4th at Foshan.
Photo Credit: FIBA