By Aris Barkas/ barkas@Eurohoops.net
Nicolo Melli will consider his options and is expected to make a decision regarding his future after helping Italy in the approaching Olympic Qualifying Tournament, according to Eurohoops sources.
Melli, 30, is set to become an NBA free agent. His focus remains on securing a contract to extend his NBA run past the 108 appearances so far between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Dallas Mavericks. He had 3.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per contest last season.
However, a return to Europe can become a reality. AX Armani Exchange Olimpia Milano is a possible destination but two more Turkish Airlines EuroLeague powerhouses have a strong interest in securing his services.
The Italian forward/center last appeared in EuroLeague during the 2018-19 season finishing a two-year run at Fenerbahce. He had logged a total of 207 games played in Europe’s premier club competition before moving on to the NBA.
Italy will compete for an Olympic Games ticket at Belgrade. The national team will take on Senegal on Wednesday and Puerto Rico on Thursday. A top-two finish in the three-team group would lead to the semifinals against one of Serbia, the Philippines, or the Dominican Republic, but only the last side standing on July 4 will make the trip to Tokyo.
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