Olimpia Milano has terminated the contract of head coach Peppe Poeta, according to an official club announcement. The decision comes after a series of poor results that saw the team slip in both the EuroLeague and the domestic league. In a swift move, the club has announced that Luca Banchi will take over as the new head coach, signing a multi-year deal that runs through 2028.
The club’s board acted decisively following the team’s decline, immediately identifying Banchi as the replacement for Poeta. The Tuscany native, who is also the current head coach of the Italian national team, returns to a club where he previously left a significant mark. The agreement allows Banchi to manage the dual role of club and national team coach.
Poeta’s Departure Marked by EuroLeague Struggles
Poeta’s tenure, which began in late November of last year, has concluded after less than a year in the top job. The primary reason for his dismissal was an eight-game losing streak in the EuroLeague, a run that dropped the team to the bottom of the standings. This poor European campaign overshadowed the domestic success he achieved just months prior.
The coach had led Olimpia to a national treble, winning the Italian championship, the Coppa Italia, and the Supercoppa.
In a statement released by the club, Pallacanestro Olimpia Milano thanked Poeta for his dedication and passion, both as an assistant and then as head coach. The team also announced that Marco Ramondino will take charge on an interim basis for the upcoming LBA match against Trento on Sunday. Ramondino, who already works alongside Banchi with the Italian national team, is the temporary solution until Banchi can officially integrate with the club.
Banchi’s Return to Milan
The appointment of Banchi represents a significant move for Olimpia Milano, as the coach is no stranger to the organization. He previously coached the club from 2013 to 2015, winning the first Scudetto of the Armani era in his debut season, ending an 18-year title drought.
Banchi’s return is not without its complexities. He is currently under contract with the Italian Basketball Federation (FIP) as the head coach of the national team. A part-time arrangement is an eventuality considered in the agreement with the FIP, allowing Banchi to fulfill his duties with both clubs. His official start with Olimpia is expected to be timed around key international fixtures, including a EuroLeague game against ASVEL in Lyon on November 24 and an Italian national team game against Turkey in Rome on November 26.
Olimpia Milano relieves Giuseppe Poeta, Luca Banchi is taking overhttps://t.co/Dx4JB8AML2
The Challenge Ahead
Banchi inherits a team facing immediate challenges. Olimpia is currently chasing the trio of Virtus Bologna, Napoli, and Treviso in the Italian league after six games and is at the bottom of the EuroLeague standings. The team is also dealing with the prolonged absence of Devin Booker, which has forced a re-evaluation of both defensive schemes and player rotation.
What’s Next for Olimpia Milano
The immediate focus for Olimpia is the interim coaching period under Ramondino, who will guide the team in their next match. Following that, the club and Banchi will work to facilitate a smooth transition. The team’s next fixture in the EuroLeague, against ASVEL on November 24 in Lyon, is a critical early test for the incoming coach.
Peppe Poeta Was Fired After Losing Streak
- Why was Peppe Poeta fired?
- Poeta was dismissed following an eight-game losing streak in the EuroLeague, which left the team at the bottom of the standings. This poor European performance overshadowed his previous domestic success.
- When will Luca Banchi officially start his new role?
- While the deal is done, Banchi’s official start is likely after upcoming key fixtures, including an ASVEL EuroLeague game on November 24 and an Italian national team game on November 26.
- Will Banchi continue to coach the Italian national team?
- Yes, Banchi’s agreement with Olimpia allows him to maintain his role as head coach of the Italian national team under a part-time arrangement considered in the agreement with the FIP.
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