Pallacanestro Trieste officially launched its 2026/27 campaign in Piazza Unità d’Italia on the eve of the 58th Barcolana regatta, gathering fans, youth sectors, and the senior roster for a public presentation hosted at the “Io sono Friuli Venezia Giulia” regional truck.
Piazza Unità d’Italia Hosts Season Kickoff
The club staged its official opening event against the backdrop of the Adriatic Sea in Trieste’s central square. Mitja Gialuz, president of the Società Velica di Barcola and Grignano, opened the evening by addressing the crowd regarding the club’s survival following difficult moments in previous months. Municipal and regional officials joined club executives at the venue to mark the start of the new Serie A season. Elisa Lodi, municipal assessor for Real Estate Heritage Policies and Sport, and Giuseppe Petronzi, Prefect of Trieste, offered remarks alongside regional assessor for Productive Activities and Tourism Sergio Emidio Bini, who noted that Trieste ranks as the second city in Italy for basketball attendance.
Youth Sector and Roster Introductions
The presentation progressed from the grassroots program to the senior team. Officials introduced youth squads including the U13 Regionale BaskeTrieste, U14 Gold BaskeTrieste, U15 Eccellenza, U17 Gold BaskeTrieste, U17 Eccellenza, and U19 Eccellenza. The medical staff, technical staff, and individual players of the 2026/27 senior roster then took the stage in front of supporters gathered in the square.
Club Leadership Outlines Expectations
Head coach Francesco Taccetti addressed the audience regarding the challenges of the upcoming campaign and the unity forged during the club’s difficult months. Captain Lodovico Deangeli spoke about squad cohesion and returning to competition in Italy’s top flight. General Manager Michael Arcieri thanked local institutions and introduced Josh Hiller of Cotogna Sports Group as the club’s new owner. Hiller addressed supporters in both Italian and English, thanking the Curva Nord supporters group for their backing during Sunday’s home fixture.
Upcoming Serie A Fixtures
Following the Piazza Unità presentation, Pallacanestro Trieste turns its attention to the opening weeks of the regular season. The team travels to face Varese in its next league fixture scheduled for Saturday, October 10.
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