Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 6) — The 2023 FIBA World Cup quarterfinals clash between Team USA and Italy was a momentous occasion for Paolo Banchero who has a shared heritage with both nations.
Banchero’s mother is from the United States while the family of his father traces its roots to Italy.
But a supposed proud moment on Tuesday night turned sour when a group of Italian fans displayed a banner with an indirect mention of his last name beside a photo of Pinocchio, a fictional character whose nose grows whenever he lies. They jeered the reigning NBA Rookie of the Year from time to time when he touched the ball.
The Italian fans’ ire stemmed from Banchero initially expressing interest to play for Italy before ultimately choosing to suit up for Team USA in the World Cup.
Despite the unpleasant reception from the Italian spectators, Banchero had a productive output for Team USA which was highlighted by a between-the-legs alley-oop lob from Tyrese Haliburton to end the third period.
Team USA secured the semifinals spot with a 100-63 bounce back blowout win over Italy at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
\”It was very fun getting out there, playing in a highly competitive quarterfinal game. I’m happy we got the win and we get to move on to the semifinals,\” Banchero told reporters after the match.
Team USA will face either Germany or Latvia which are set to square off in the other quarterfinals meeting on Sept. 6.
