By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
Ettore Messina talked with Sky Sport 24 about the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season possibly resuming 2019-20 action at some point. The 60-year-old head coach of AX Armani Exchange Olimpia Milan once again expressed his doubts regarding returning to action.
“It seems difficult to gather 18 teams, bring back all imports, and guarantee safety. I think it’s very difficult to resume action,” he explained, adding, “There is one more problem. The Spanish league wants to complete its season by July 10. It will difficult to overcome scheduling issues. I repeat that I consider it difficult.”
His side was tied with four other teams in 9th place when the season was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic. Milan sat on a 12-16 record. Despite acknowledging the above issues, Messina approves of his players staying in shape while taking into consideration safety guidelines implemented by health authorities.
“Our doctors and trainers shared various programs with the players. They also did some video sessions,” he noted, “My recommendation is for them to respect the rules and stay home, and try to remain in the best possible condition. When the time comes, we will start talking about playing basketball.”
Following his lengthy stint with the San Antonio Spurs, he returned to Europe and Italy last summer assuming the head coach and president of basketball operations roles at Milan.
“Milan went through many changes in terms of players and coaches. The club captured important titles but suffered a lack of continuity. Otherwise, I would not be here,” he pointed out and went on sharing his future plans, “We hope to be able to satisfy our fans and management.”
An added note beyond Europe’s premier club competition, the Italian Basketball Federation canceled the remainder of the 2019-20 LBA Serie A season on April 7, one month after initially halting the campaign.
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