At long last, Italy’s head coach, Gianmarco Pozzecco, had the opportunity to meet one of his heroes.
A day prior to the commencement of their second-round campaign in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, Pozzecco and his staff received a morale boost by being invited to Manny Pacquiao’s residence in Makati.
Pozzecco not only had the chance to converse with the world’s only eight-division boxing champion but also engaged in a game of chess with him.
Ever since his arrival in the country two weeks ago, Pozzecco had been eager to meet Pacquiao, admitting to being a lifelong fan of the Filipino icon.
As per the FIBA Local Organizing Committee, Pacquiao had intended to attend the Gilas-Azzurri game last Tuesday, but a prior commitment in General Santos City prevented his presence.
Before leaving, Pozzecco presented Pacquiao with his very own Azzurri jersey.
Joining them at Pacquiao’s residence later on was Klay Thompson.
Thompson is currently in the country for a shoe tour with the footwear brand ANTA.
ANTA serves as the official outfitter of the MPBL