REGGIO CALABRIA, Italy – Students from the “Vittorino da Feltre” middle school in Reggio Calabria have secured a spot in the national final of the Jr. NBA FIP School League, a scholastic basketball tournament co-branded by the Italian Basketball Federation (FIP) and the NBA. The team, representing the “Carducci – V. Da Feltre” Comprehensive Institute, triumphed in the city final played at the PalaCalafiore arena on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
The “Vittorino da Feltre” squad will now compete in the FIP NBA School Cup National Final, scheduled for May 4-5 in Montebelluna (Treviso). This marks a significant achievement for the school and its basketball program, showcasing the growing popularity of the sport among young athletes in the region.
Dominant Run to the City Championship
The path to the championship wasn’t easy. The team, comprised of Francesco Catanoso, Gabriele Foti, Alessandro Ieracitano, Sara Malara, Martina Merenda, Alberto Milardi, Carmine Polimeni, Cesare and Edoardo Santodirocco, and Yacine Sarr, navigated a challenging schedule, defeating schools from Gioiosa Ionica, Palmi, and the “Pirandello” middle school of the Falcomatà Archi I.C. In Reggio Calabria. They then advanced through the semifinals, overcoming the “Spanò Bolani” middle school of the “De Amicis Bolani” I.C., also in Reggio Calabria, before ultimately winning the final against the “Cassiodoro Don Bosco” middle school of Pellaro.
The team’s success is a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and passion for the game. Coaches Antonello Luppino and Valeria Tripodi played a crucial role in guiding the students throughout the tournament, fostering a positive and competitive environment.
School Leadership Praises Team’s Achievement
Sonia Barberi, the Head of the “Carducci – V. Da Feltre” Institute, expressed immense pride in the students’ accomplishment. “We are extremely proud of our students for the milestone they have reached, the result of commitment, team spirit, and passion,” Barberi stated. She emphasized the importance of sports as a fundamental educational pillar within the school, promoting values such as respect, inclusion, collaboration, and responsibility.
Barberi added, “My compliments to the boys, the teachers, and our entire educational community. We will continue to support and promote initiatives like this, convinced that they contribute significantly to the overall growth of our students, helping them – she concluded – to become active and aware citizens.”
Jr. NBA FIP School League: Fostering Basketball Growth in Italy
The Jr. NBA FIP School League is designed to introduce basketball to a wider audience of young students across Italy. The league aims to promote the sport’s core values and provide a platform for young athletes to develop their skills and passion for the game. The partnership between the FIP and the NBA brings international exposure and resources to the Italian scholastic basketball scene.
For the “Vittorino da Feltre” team, the national final represents an opportunity to showcase their talent on a larger stage and compete against some of the best young basketball players in the country. The tournament in Montebelluna promises to be a thrilling event, with the team eager to represent Reggio Calabria and their school with pride.
What’s Next for the “Vittorino da Feltre” Team?
The team will now focus on preparing for the national final in Montebelluna on May 4th and 5th. Details regarding the schedule and opponents will be released by the FIP in the coming weeks. Fans and supporters can stay updated on the team’s progress through the school’s official channels and the FIP website. The team’s journey is an inspiring example of the power of sports to unite communities and empower young athletes.
The success of the “Vittorino da Feltre” team is a source of pride for Reggio Calabria and a testament to the dedication of the students, coaches, and school administration. As they prepare for the national final, the team carries the hopes and aspirations of their community with them.
