The national basketball team's most welcome surprise came at the Tortona Arena, shortly before the 2027 World Cup qualifying match against Iceland. Italy captain (and Dinamo forward) Achille Polonara chose the day of the match to make his first appearance away from home after returning from the hospital in Bologna, where he underwent a bone marrow transplant to treat acute myeloid leukemia.

Polonara's face mask didn't hide his smile, however. His eyes sparkled as he took the first step toward his return to basketball.

The hugs of coach Banchi and the coordinator of the Men's National Teams, Gigi Datome, the ovation of the fans, the welcome-back and encouraging banners. FIP President Gianni Petrucci was visibly moved. They were truly emotional moments.

Alongside Polonara is Marco Spissu from Sassari, not called up for this round, but a close friend of Achille, so much so that the two are nicknamed Gaspare and Orazio.

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