Germani Brescia folds permanently from Serie A, while Paul Matiasic's new Maxima Roma secures a EuroCup wild‑card for 2024‑25.
What happened?
The Italian Basketball Federation released the roster of clubs registered for the upcoming EuroCup, adding Paul Matiasic's Maxima Roma via a wild‑card. The announcement precedes the official approval by the Federal Council scheduled for Friday afternoon. Meanwhile, ECA confirmed that Germani Brescia will not compete next season, ending a 17‑year presence in the top tier.
Why does it matter for Germani Brescia?
The transfer of the sporting title to Rome closes a chapter that began over a decade ago, when the team reached Serie A and won an Italian Cup. In its last campaign, the Leonessa reached the league final, showing a stability that seemed to guarantee its future. Now, Germani Brescia's disappearance leaves a gap in the city but opens the door for lower‑division projects to preserve local basketball.
What are the next steps for Brescia basketball?
Sporting authorities are already reviewing proposals for a new Brescia entity in the minor leagues. Some investors have shown interest in keeping the tradition alive, focusing on young talent and a more sustainable model. Fans await the definitive FIP statement, which will formalise the club's closure and the title hand‑over to Rome.
What does the new Roma promise in EuroCup?
After acquiring Pallacanestro Brescia through an agreement with Mauro Ferrari, Paul Matiasic sought a EuroCup wild‑card following FIBA's rejection of a Champions League bid, and succeeded. Maxima Roma will compete on the opposite bank of the Tiber from the Roma Basketball Club SPQR, led by Luka Dončić. Matiasic's project has already signed Nico Mannion, former Olimpia Milano playmaker, while Ettore Messina's name circulates as a potential head coach after his departure from Milano.