Kelly Olynyk Scores 15 Points for BC Roma Against Balkan

Kelly Olynyk has signed with BC Roma, stepping onto the court at the Palazzetto dello Sport in viale Tiziano to begin a new chapter of his career in Italy’s capital. At 35 years old and following a 13-season career spanning over 800 games, the Canadian center made an immediate impact by scoring 15 points—including six in overtime—to help secure a 77-72 EuroCup victory over Balkan Botevgrad.

Transition to Rome After Thirteen Seasons

Olynyk arrived in Rome following a lengthy North American career that included stints with the Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, and San Antonio Spurs, among others. Speaking at a press conference at the Giulio Onesti center, Olynyk explained that after 13 years at the highest level of professional basketball, it was the right moment to make way for younger players and embrace a new challenge abroad. When the opportunity in Rome materialized, he and his family viewed it as a perfect fit.

Family Basketball Background and International Experience

Basketball has been central to Olynyk’s life from an early age. His father, Ken, worked as a coach, while his mother, Arlene, officiated games and served as a official scorer for the Toronto Raptors. Before moving overseas, Olynyk established himself as a versatile stretch big man—capable of shooting from beyond the arc, passing, and stretching opposing defenses—traits he developed during his collegiate career at Gonzaga and later refined in the NBA, where he reached the 2020 Finals with Miami against LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers. Internationally, he captained Canada to a bronze medal at the 2023 World Cup by defeating the United States in the third-place game.

Adapting to Coach Alessandro Magro’s System

BC Roma remains a squad in development under head coach Alessandro Magro, a reality evident during the hard-fought win against Balkan Botevgrad. Olynyk noted that the team requires time to synchronize movements within a new tactical system and coaching staff. Rather than setting immediate statistical expectations, the 35-year-old emphasized that patience and collective repetition on the training floor will dictate how quickly the roster gels during domestic and European competition.

Local Culture and Fan Atmosphere in the Capital

Beyond the court, Olynyk has already sampled the local sporting culture, attending a derby match at the PalaEur in front of 9,312 spectators. He observed that while European fan energy differs slightly from NBA atmospheres, the intense passion matches what professional competitors look for. Away from the arena, his appreciation for Italy extends to regional cuisine—noting that he reserves pasta and pizza exclusively for trips to the country—and to his personal life, marked by the selection of the number 22 jersey in honor of his daughter’s September 22 birth date.

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