Sassari, Sardinia – April 1, 2026 – The sound of a basketball once again hitting the hardwood. For Achille Polonara, it wasn’t merely a sporting gesture, but a symbolic step in a journey far greater than the game itself. The Dinamo Sassari player, who has been battling leukemia following a bone marrow transplant, recently returned to individual practice, marking a significant milestone in his recovery. His story, however, extends far beyond the court, a testament to resilience, family, and a redefined perspective on life.
A Return to the Game, a Continued Fight
Polonara described the feeling of dribbling a basketball after a 10-month absence as “emotional and attractive.” He admitted it initially felt like learning the game anew, but with each shot, the familiar sensations returned. While a return to competitive play remains a distant goal, this step carries immense personal significance, following months of treatment, hospital stays, and a complex clinical journey. Just last week, Polonara was in Valencia, Spain, continuing his treatment with experimental medication designed to reduce the risk of relapse.
“I was in Valencia last week and started taking experimental pills that should lower the percentages of recurrence,” Polonara explained, acknowledging that the road ahead is long and will require continued time and patience. “It will take another 2-3 years to be certain there is no more risk.”
Darkness After the Coma: “I Was Angry at the World”
Polonara’s perspective has fundamentally shifted. While basketball remains a part of his life, it’s no longer the central focus. “I don’t suppose about basketball, but about life,” he stated, “because the real game I’m playing is off the court.” He openly discussed the most difficult periods following his bone marrow transplant, including a period of profound mental struggle after emerging from a coma. “There were several mental blocks. The most important was just after waking up from the coma. I refused food, didn’t want to be fed, wouldn’t drink, didn’t want to notice anyone except my wife. I stayed with the lights off and didn’t speak. I was angry at the world. I think it was a kind of depression.”
The support of his wife, Erika Bufano, was crucial during this time. Polonara emphasized her constant presence and unwavering support as instrumental in overcoming those dark moments. Recovery wasn’t immediate, but came through slight signs of normalcy. A simple walk, documented on social media with the caption “wheelchair bye bye,” symbolized a significant step forward.
Polonara’s 35th birthday, celebrated surrounded by friends and former teammates like Marco Belinelli and Alessandro Visconti, marked another turning point. “From there, I started to recover and put the bad thoughts aside,” he said. “Now I don’t ask myself ‘Why me?’ Bad things happen suddenly, and there’s no answer.” Each shot taken in practice now represents more than just basketball; it’s a concrete sign of a life slowly regaining momentum.
A Diagnosis of Myeloid Leukemia
Polonara’s battle began in June 2025, on the eve of Game 3 of the Italian league finals between Virtus Bologna and Brescia. He received a diagnosis of myeloid leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow where myeloid cells proliferate uncontrollably, replacing healthy cells. [1] Initial symptoms included persistent fever and unusual fatigue, initially dismissed as stress related to the season. A fever of 38.1°C that wouldn’t subside led to testing, revealing the devastating diagnosis. [1]
Returning to the Court
The Dinamo Sassari organization showed faith in Polonara, signing him to a contract last September, even before his bone marrow transplant in Valencia. [2] His recent return to the court, documented on Instagram, is a testament to his determination and the support system around him. [2, 3] He underwent heart surgery following the Coppa Italia in February, further highlighting the physical challenges he has overcome. [2]
As of March 31, 2026, Polonara is engaging in individual workouts, including shooting and conditioning drills, at the PalaSerradimigni arena in Sassari. [3] While a full return to competitive basketball is still some time away, this marks a significant step in his rehabilitation. [3]
Achille Polonara’s journey is a powerful reminder that the greatest battles are often fought off the court. His story is one of courage, resilience, and the unwavering support of family and friends. The road to full recovery is long, but his recent steps back onto the basketball court offer a beacon of hope and inspiration.
What’s Next: Polonara will continue his rehabilitation program in Sassari, with ongoing monitoring and treatment in Valencia. Updates on his progress will be shared through the Dinamo Sassari official channels.
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