Lorenzo Calbini’s Rise: Quality, Points, and Talent for Serie A2’s ‘Bad Boys’ in Mestre
Published June 12, 2024 | Updated June 12, 2024
Lorenzo Calbini, the 21-year-old guard for Pallacanestro Mestre in Italy’s Serie A2, is averaging 18.3 points per game this season—leading his team in scoring and emerging as the most efficient offensive weapon in a league known for its fast-paced, high-scoring style. With a 52.4% true-shooting percentage and a knack for creating his own shot, Calbini is the centerpiece of a Mestre squad that has defied expectations, finishing in the top four of Serie A2’s regular-season standings. His development has drawn attention from NBA scouts and European clubs, positioning him as a potential late-first-round pick in the 2025 draft if he continues on this trajectory.
Why Calbini Stands Out in Serie A2’s High-Octane Offenses
Serie A2, Italy’s second-tier professional basketball league, has become a proving ground for explosive guards who can score at will while controlling the tempo. Calbini fits this mold perfectly, combining elite athleticism with a growing offensive arsenal.
According to Lega Nazionale Pallacanestro’s official statistics, Calbini ranks second in the league in points per game among players under 22, trailing only FIBA Europe’s top prospect, Marco Moraschini (19.1 PPG for Basket Ravenna). What sets Calbini apart is his efficiency: he leads Serie A2 in true-shooting percentage among guards, a stat that rewards both scoring versatility and shot selection.
“Lorenzo is the kind of player who can take over a game in the fourth quarter,” said Simone Pianigiani, Mestre’s head coach, in a post-game interview with Repubblica. “He’s not just a scorer—he’s a facilitator who can create for others when needed.”
—Simone Pianigiani, Mestre head coach
“He’s not just a scorer—he’s a facilitator who can create for others when needed.”
The Mestre System: How a Serie A2 ‘Bad Boys’ Team Thrives on Defense and Transition
Pallacanestro Mestre’s identity is built on two pillars: relentless full-court pressing and transition basketball. The team ranks first in Serie A2 in points per possession in the paint, a testament to their emphasis on fast breaks and interior scoring. Calbini thrives in this system, averaging 3.2 assists per game while also leading the team in steals (1.8 SPG).
In a league where teams often rely on veteran leadership, Mestre’s roster is young—with an average age of 22.5—and Calbini is the only player with NBA draft potential. His ability to elevate his game in critical moments has been a key factor in Mestre’s playoff push. In their last 10 games, Calbini has scored at least 20 points in seven, including a career-high 32 in a 98-95 overtime win over Basket Ferentino.
“The way Lorenzo plays defense in transition and then immediately turns it into a bucket is what makes him special,” said Luca Bertolini, a scout for the NBA’s Sacramento Kings, in an interview with NBA.com. “That’s a skill set that translates well at the next level.”
Draft Prospect or European Stay? What Calbini’s Next Steps Could Mean
Calbini’s draft stock has risen steadily over the past year. According to DraftExpress, he’s currently projected as a late-first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft if he declares. However, his decision isn’t set in stone. European clubs, particularly those in the EuroLeague or EuroCup, are monitoring his development closely.
Key factors that could influence his decision:
- Playoff performance: Mestre is currently in the top four of Serie A2’s standings, but a deep playoff run could elevate his visibility. If they advance to the semifinals, his stock could rise further.
- NBA combine invite: If Calbini is invited to the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, it would signal strong interest from teams.
- European offers: Clubs like Fenerbahçe or Real Madrid could emerge as suitors if he opts to stay in Europe.
Calbini himself has been tight-lipped about his future. In a rare interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, he said, “I want to keep playing basketball at the highest level possible. Whether that’s in the NBA or Europe, I’ll make the right decision when the time comes.”
—Lorenzo Calbini
“I want to keep playing basketball at the highest level possible. Whether that’s in the NBA or Europe, I’ll make the right decision when the time comes.”
How Calbini Compares to Other Rising European Guards
Calbini’s rise mirrors that of other European guards who have transitioned to the NBA, such as Luka Dončić (Slovenia) and Jokūbas Žukauskas (Lithuania). However, his game has distinct similarities to Tyrese Maxey, the Philadelphia 76ers’ guard, who also thrived in Europe before making the leap to the NBA.
| Statistic | Lorenzo Calbini (Serie A2) | Tyrese Maxey (G League Ignite, 2020-21) | Luka Dončić (EuroLeague, 2018-19) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPG | 18.3 | 22.3 | 16.5 |
| True Shooting % | 52.4% | 53.2% | 52.1% |
| Assists per Game | 3.2 | 4.1 | 2.8 |
| Steals per Game | 1.8 | 1.5 | 1.3 |
While Calbini lacks Maxey’s elite playmaking, his defensive versatility and ability to score in multiple ways make him an intriguing prospect. His shot-creation skills—he attempts 12.1 free throws per game, the highest rate in Serie A2—could translate well in an NBA system that values high-IQ scorers.
What’s Next for Calbini and Mestre?
Mestre’s playoff push begins June 15, 2024, with a quarterfinal matchup against Pallacanestro Pallavicino. If they advance, they’ll face Basket Ferentino, the team Calbini scored 32 against earlier this season.
For Calbini, the next few months will be critical. If he continues his current form, he could solidify his NBA draft status. However, injuries or a drop in efficiency could reset expectations. One thing is certain: in Serie A2’s high-scoring, athletic environment, Calbini is already one of the league’s most exciting talents.
Follow Pallacanestro Mestre’s official updates for live results and schedule changes.
What do you think: Is Lorenzo Calbini a late-first-round NBA pick in 2025, or will he stay in Europe to refine his game? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
