Berlin – Alba newcomer Gabriele Procida was very modest and almost a little shy at his presentation on Thursday. “I just want to keep improving in many areas, help the team and quickly become part of it,” announced the 20-year-old Italian. Procida came from Fortitudo Bologna and has signed a three-year contract with the German champions.
Procida has been in Berlin since Saturday, and he did not travel to the German capital unprepared. In the national team, he had previously obtained information from former Alba player Simone Fontecchio. “He told me that it is very easy to fit into the team. There is a very positive vibe here and new players are well received. He also gave me some tips for the city,” said Procida, who is 1.98 meters tall.
The Italian was drafted by NBA club Detroit Pistons this year. The North American professional league is still a long way off, however, and his focus is only on Alba. “I would like to go there at some point, but I’m still young and I’m still improving,” he said. “He is very athletic, has a lot of energy and is a good shot. He has to take the next step now,” said sporting director Himar Ojeda about the new signing.
Actually, Procida sees himself more in the position of shooting guard. But Alba has to do the entire preparation without his three point guards. Maodo Lo (Germany), Tamir Blatt (Israel) and Jaleen Smith (Croatia) are preparing with their national teams for the European Championships from September 1st to 18th. “It’s really a drama because we can’t really get used to it,” Ojeda complained.
For Procida, their absence is also an opportunity. He wouldn’t have a problem; also helping out as a point guard: “I play where the coach needs me and where I can help the team. And it is also a good way to improve.”
