By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Atlanta Hawks are building an eclectic identity by matching their young players with championship pedigree ahead of the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season.
During preseason media day on Monday, head coach Quin Snyder went into adding Italian strategist Ettore Messina to his coaching circle.
“We’ve known each other for a long time. We have a friendship in addition to a professional relationship. I’ve worked as an assistant for him in CSKA Moscow. We were assistants together in Los Angeles. And I think one of the things that he wants, that I’m looking forward to, is that he’s a coach’s consultant,” he said.
The 59-year-old expert values having the European legend around the facility. “His ability to be a part of a staff, for a man that’s had the success that he has, his understanding that there’s a lot of people on our staff that he can interact with, and I think that’s something that he’s looking forward to,” he continued on the four-time EuroLeague champion.
After being drafted with the 52nd overall pick during the offseason, Estonian Henri Veesaar joins this system under tough circumstances. While he is expected to sit out most of the upcoming season due to an ACL injury, the Tallinn native remains heavily involved in film sessions to master Snyder’s tactical sets.
The Hawks formally start training camp on Tuesday, moving into their preseason schedule. Starting the Regular Season, they are on the road against the Orlando Magic on October 21.
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