Career: Reggio Emilia (Italy-Legadue, 1996-1997), Reggio Emilia (Italy-Lega, 1998-1999), Fortitudo Bologna (Italy, Lega, 1999-2005).

Italy’s top player… Had a tough background growing up in Ruvo Di Pulgia in rural Italy where he had to get up early every day to help his father.. Showed great heart at Reggio Emilia where he got 30 minutes a game at the age of 21….

After that he was close to signing with Virtus Bologna, before deciding to go with Fortitudo during their market wars. Became the team’s leader after Carlton Myyers and Gregor Fucka left. Won 2 Italian titles (2000 and 2005) and a league MVP in 2004. Known for hitting big shots, none bigger than during the last 2 minutes of Italy’s Olympic semi-final against Lithuania in 2004. Has range to 8 metres, but can also create off the dribble or go to the basket for a runner. The summer fight for his services between Barcelona and Fortitudo was big news before EuroBasket.