Cantù, Italy – Leonardo Okeke is finding his footing again. After a period of uncertainty, the 21-year-old Italian center is making a significant impact for Pallacanestro Cantù, revitalized under new coach Walter De Raffaele. Okeke’s recent performance against Napoli, where he contributed 9 points, three rebounds, one block, and two steals in just 11 minutes, signals a turning point in his season.
“It was definitely my best performance, coinciding with a good win,” Okeke said, according to reporting from La Provincia di Como. “The secret? Very simple: it’s the result of the work these months with coach De Raffaele, who is giving me a lot of confidence. He asks me for energy, defense, and rebounds, as well as a lot of concentration. So far, so good, but we need to keep working hard.”
Okeke’s journey this season hasn’t been without its challenges. Under previous coach Nicola Brienza, his playing time diminished significantly. Rumors of potential moves surfaced, but never materialized. “I didn’t really know what was going on myself,” Okeke explained. “I was reading about teams interested, calling my agent, and he told me to stay calm. Cantù wasn’t in a good moment, maybe they were looking for the best solution for everyone. I always trained at my best, but I knew I wasn’t very useful on the court.”
However, the arrival of De Raffaele has completely changed the dynamic. Okeke credits his dedication during the offseason and the support of physical trainer “Sam” Bianchi for his improved condition. “You can’t stop,” he emphasized. “I practically didn’t take a vacation this summer to be ready for Serie A and to complete my physical recovery after the serious injury. As is well known, ‘Sam’ Bianchi, the physical trainer, gave me a big hand – he got me back on track 100%. And then there’s the confidence that De Raffaele is giving me, a confidence that I think I deserve.”
The win against Napoli showcased a more cohesive Cantù team. Okeke highlighted the improved focus, and unity. He too praised the contributions of recent additions Chris Chiozza, Erick Green, and Ivan Fevrier. “Chiozza struggled a bit but now, with tasks and hierarchies well assigned, he’s an significant player who is giving us a big hand because he’s an assist man with high-level experience,” Okeke said. “Green is a champion: I used to watch him on TV when I was little, it’s a great honor for me to play with him – he scores and makes others score, he’s an intelligent player, often decisive. Fevrier surprised me: he settled in quickly – he fights, shoots, he’s a very good guy, I’d say a great addition that can give a lot to the team.”
Currently, Cantù holds a six-point advantage over Treviso in the standings, improving their prospects for avoiding relegation. Okeke remains optimistic. “I am very confident, this advantage makes us a little more relaxed, but it’s not over. There are still difficult games ahead, but the spirit has changed and lately we are always giving our best. We mustn’t stop now: I am a great optimist, if we manage to put together a modest streak, I don’t rule out a photo-finish run for the playoffs. Why not dream?”
Okeke’s career trajectory has been marked by both promise and adversity. Born in Monza on July 16, 2003, the 7’1” center quickly emerged as one of Italy’s most promising young talents. He excelled in the Serie A2 league in the 2021-22 season, earning the title of best U21 player and making his debut with the Italian national team at just 18 years old. Olimpia Milano signed him to a multi-year contract, but a severe injury sustained although on loan to Joventut Badalona in Spain threatened his career. Pallacanestro Cantù’s official website details his arduous recovery and subsequent signing with the club in January 2025.
The road back to form hasn’t been easy, but Okeke’s dedication and De Raffaele’s faith appear to be paying dividends. His resurgence is not only vital for Cantù’s survival in Serie A but also represents a significant step forward in his personal journey as a professional basketball player. The situation was further complicated earlier this year when Cantù relieved Nicola Brienza of his coaching duties, as reported by Backdoor Podcast, potentially impacting a possible loan deal with Pesaro.
Cantù’s next challenge comes on [Date of next game – needs verification], against [Opponent – needs verification]. Okeke and his teammates will look to build on their recent momentum and continue their climb up the Serie A standings. Fans can follow updates and official news on the Pallacanestro Cantù official website.
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