The Euroleague? “In my opinion, Real Madrid will win.” What if it were Fenerbahce’s turn? “I hope that’s not the case. I played there.” And who wins in the NBA? “Sorry, but I don’t follow you.”
Music and words by Achille Polonara, guest of honour, together with the Bradipi playmaker, Giacomo Forcione, from Sabin high school. A different morning, thanks to the principal of Sabin, Rossella Fabbri and the physical education teacher, Ilaria Baczynsky, who together with the Gergs (Emilia-Romagna group of sports journalists) organize a different morning to allow students to compete with the big names of baskets.
But also for some young people – about twenty in total – to receive recognition for their competitive activity.
Achille Polonara is the absolute star of the morning. First he indulges in a few jokes with the boys, also talking about the illness that forced him to sit out after the operation in October, then he gets into the playoff mood.
What did he say to the kids? “Study and continue doing it. It’s important. Virtus had looked for me when I was a kid, then nothing came of it. But this hasn’t created problems, despite last year, perhaps, I was close to the club without signing I’m here, I’m very happy to wear this shirt. I want to win the championship because after three lost finals, I think it’s my turn. I love the Giardini Margherita area really good. The only downside? There are too many traffic lights.”
Achille receives applause, as in the future, when he has hung up his shoes, he might also decide to open a bed & breakfast.
Honored by the Sabin boys, as well as Giacomo Forcione, 26 years old, star of the Bradipi who missed out on Serie A. “After the defeat against Padova I even thought about quitting. Then, however, the love for the ball prevailed. like falling in love again.” Applause also for Jack, two youth titles and a super cup on his CV.
And Achilles? He is already thinking about Tortona. And not only.
“I can’t wait to start the playoffs – says Achille –. Tortona is a tough team. It won’t be easy. But we have gained the advantage of home advantage. Let’s exploit it”.
And the Euroleague? “There are some regrets. But that’s in the past now. There are the playoffs, we can train well. We’ve reset everything.”
Down with Tortona, then.
“Let’s maintain concentration. Let’s take advantage of the field factor. In Italy I lost three championship finals. In other countries I won the national title. I would like the Italian one. The sensations are good. The shot? I also tried to take advantage of the stop due to illness to better. I hope I succeeded.”
Will it still be Milan-Virtus for the fourth time? “I don’t know who we’ll be up against. And honestly, while I respect everyone, I don’t care much. Let’s try to get to the final first. And then the championship.”
But first, as Achille says. thoughts on Tortona.
