Influenced by Mother?s History, 19YO NBA Star?s Patriotic Decision Turns Into ?Betrayal?

What do Hakeem Olajuwon, Kyrie Irving and Steve Kerr have in common? All of them were eligible to play for nations other than the United States but did not choose to. The list features many more greats, and it’s no surprise that many want to suit up for the US national team. Arguably the most dominant country in terms of basketball, the US Men’s team has always been a ‘Dream Team’.

Interestingly, A young baller recently found himself in a dilemma as he struggled with the option of playing for two different nations. Furthermore, the Orlando Magic forward’s eventual decision was seen as a “betrayal”.

A young star makes his international commitment

Paolo Banchero is definitely amongst the brightest prospects in the league. The no.1 draft pick turned-Rookie of the Year has had an amazing debut season, making him a wanted man on the international scene.

Holding an Italian citizenship due to his paternal side, Young Banchero could have chosen to represent the Mediterranean country. But the Washington native chose to represent the United States, mostly due to his mother being a US international player herself during her own playing days.

Having previously agreed to play with the Italian team, this decision enraged Gianni Petrucci. According to AFD, the Italian president went on to speak with the press regarding the matter, stating, “It was a legitimate decision, but he could have made a call to communicate that to us.”

Finding out about Paolo’s decision through the papers, the Italian president was left feeling betrayed. Continuing to speak on the matter the president added, “Betrayal, especially in basketball, is a strong word. Situations like this happen, and personally, I?m used to it. But he fooled us.” Petrucci, although dismayed, wanted to find optimism in his grief, calling for a positive outlook from the disappointing experience.

Read More: Breaking Down in Tears on Stage, 51 YO Music Legend Consoled by Shaquille O?Neal and Thousands Others After Big Night

Paolo Banchero’s Italian snub was not a complete surprise, however. The former Duke star’s mother Rhonda was a basketball star herself and was a huge motivator for his decision. A college Hall of Famer and later having played in the WNBA, Rhonda also represented the US Women’s team.

Rhonda Banchero’s basketball past affected her son’s present

As reported by ESPN, it was his mother’s history with the US national team that helped Paolo make his decision. In his statement, NBA insider Brian Windhorst stated, “Banchero?s mother, Rhonda Smith-Banchero, was involved with USA Basketball during her playing career ? that played a role in his decision.”

Watch this story:?Tom Brady Went to the Same High School as This Controversial MLB Hall of Famer Who Was Also a 14x All-Star

What do you think about Banchero’s “betrayal”? Tell us in the comments!