Olimpia Milano Bolsters Roster with Burnell Signing and Diop Contract Extension

Italian basketball powerhouse Olimpia Milano confirmed the signing of forward D.J. Burnell and the two-year contract extension of center Mamadou Diop, according to official team statements. The moves come as the club aims to strengthen its roster for the upcoming Serie A and EuroLeague campaigns.

Burnell, a 28-year-old American player, joins after a successful stint with Italian club Pallacanestro Varese, where he averaged 14.3 points and 7.1 rebounds per game in the 2023-2024 season. His acquisition follows reports that Olimpia had pursued him for several months, with team president Alessandro Veneri stating, “D.J. brings versatility and experience that align with our goals for this season.”

Diop, a 29-year-old Senegalese center, had previously been linked with multiple Serie A teams, including Varese, but chose to remain with Olimpia. The club’s sports director, Marco Mancinelli, highlighted Diop’s importance: “Mamadou’s leadership and physicality are critical to our defensive identity. His decision to stay underscores the team’s stability and ambition.”

Why This Moves Matter for Olimpia Milano’s Season

The signings mark a strategic shift for Olimpia Milano, which finished third in the 2023-2024 Serie A and reached the EuroLeague quarterfinals. Analysts note Burnell’s scoring ability and Diop’s rebounding presence could address key weaknesses. “Olimpia needs a consistent outside threat, and Burnell’s 38% three-point shooting rate fits that need,” said EuroLeague analyst Luca Ricci. “Diop’s extension ensures frontcourt depth, especially with the departure of forward Nick Calathes.”

Financial details of the contracts remain undisclosed, but Italian media estimate Burnell’s deal at €1.2 million annually, while Diop’s renewal could exceed €800,000 per season. These figures align with Olimpia’s reported budget of €35 million for the 2024-2025 season, according to Lega Basket Serie A filings.

Context: Olimpia’s Roster Strategy and Competition

Olimpia’s moves come amid fierce competition in Italian basketball. Neighboring club AX Armani Exchange Milan has also made high-profile signings, including forward Giorgio Jackson. Meanwhile, EuroLeague rivals like Anadolu Efes and Fenerbahçe have been active in the transfer market.

The club’s decision to retain Diop despite interest from Varese highlights its focus on continuity. Diop, who joined Olimpia in 2021, has averaged 10.2 points and 6.8 rebounds per game over his career with the team. His extension ensures stability in a frontcourt that also includes rising star Tariq Ibougate.

What This Means for Olimpia’s EuroLeague Campaign

Olimpia’s EuroLeague group stage begins in October, with the team facing rivals like Real Madrid and Maccabi Tel Aviv. The additions of Burnell and Diop are expected to bolster their chances in a competitive group. “Burnell’s ability to create his own shot will be vital against perimeter-oriented teams,” said EuroLeague analyst Sofia Moretti. “Diop’s presence in the paint gives Olimpia a defensive anchor against high-scoring forwards.”

The club’s current roster includes 12 players under contract, with coach Ettore Messina emphasizing the need for “depth and adaptability.” Olimpia’s training camp opens on August 15 in Milan, with a pre-season friendly against Turkish club Fenerbahçe scheduled for August 28.

Next Steps: Olimpia’s Pre-Season and Roster Finalization

Olimpia Milano is expected to finalize its 12-man roster by late August, with potential additions in the guard and forward positions. The club has also been linked with point guard Jordan Loyd, though no official announcements have been made.

For fans, the next major update will come with the release of Olimpia’s official 2024-2025 squad list, expected by September 1. The team’s first regular-season game is set for October 12 against Benetton Treviso.

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