Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani has committed to helping his native Italy qualify for the 2010 world championships in Turkey. Italy will compete against Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Finland, and Portugal Aug. 5-30 for one available spot into the EuroBasket competition in Poland Sept. 7-20. A good showing at EuroBasket can solidify one of six spots for European teams at the 2010 world championships. Bargnani said Knicks forward Danilo Gallinari is also expected to play for Italy.
"Now we have to try to qualify for the European championships this summer," Bargnani said. "We have to do it or it will be very bad. I'm playing."
Good move - it's time that Bargnani becomes the first option for Team Italia in a high profile event.
If he combines improving his body this summer and has a good tournament, his confidence should be sky-high for next year.