Banki took over the helm of the bologna team last September, replacing Sergio Scariolo.
This season’s “Virtus” team, represented by Andrejs gražulis, has had a bad start. With two wins in 13 matches,ULEB occupies the last,18th place in the Euroleague. In Serie A, the team is third with seven wins in nine matches.
The Italian specialist was previously the head coach of French club Strasbourg SIG.
From 2013 too 2015, the italian specialist was the head coach of the Euroleague club Milan “Emporio Armani”. In 2014, Banki became the champion of Italy adn the quarter-finalist of the Euroleague, and a year later, the team won the first place in the main tournament of the A series.
He has also worked in other Italian teams, as well as managed in Germany, Greece and Russia. Banki also worked for the Long Island “Nets” farm club of the Brooklyn “Nets” of the National Basketball Association (NBA),which plays in the Advancement or G League.
Banki has been leading the Latvian national team since April 2021, and under his leadership, the national team qualified for the World Cup finals for the first time, where thay won fifth place. The contract with the Bank has been extended until the upcoming European Championship in 2025 in Riga.
How has Luca Banki‘s past coaching experience influenced his approach with Virtus Bologna this season?
Interview: An Insight into the Challenges and Opportunities for Virtus Bologna with Coach Luca Banki
Editor (Time.news): Thank you for joining us today, Coach Luca Banki. It’s a pleasure to have you here to discuss your experiences and the current situation at Virtus Bologna. After taking over in September, how do you evaluate the start of this season for your team?
Luca Banki: Thank you for having me. It’s certainly been a challenging start this season. With two wins in 13 matches, we find ourselves at the bottom of the Euroleague standings. It’s not where we expected to be, but I believe in our potential and am committed to turning things around. The team has performed well in Serie A, sitting third with seven wins in nine matches, which shows we have the ability to compete at a high level.
Editor: Those Serie A results are indeed encouraging, suggesting that there’s potential to build upon. Can you elaborate on the factors that have contributed to the contrasting performances between Euroleague and Serie A?
luca Banki: Absolutely. The Euroleague is an exceptionally competitive environment with teams from across Europe, which can be a different challenge compared to national leagues. we have faced teams with deep rosters and proven track records in Europe. Additionally, building chemistry and adapting to my coaching beliefs takes time. We’re working on these aspects daily and focusing on improving our routines and strategies to enhance performance.
Editor: As an experienced coach with a successful history, including your time with teams like Strasbourg SIG and Emporio Armani, what key lessons have you taken from your past that you apply to your current role?
Luca Banki: Each experience has shaped my approach to coaching. At Emporio Armani, I learned the importance of resilience; winning the Italian championship in 2014 taught me that success is built on teamwork and trust. My time in various leagues has helped me appreciate different playing styles and philosophies. Being adaptable and understanding my players’ strengths is crucial in devising effective strategies.
Editor: Your journey includes a important achievement with the Latvian national team, leading them to their first World Cup finals and finishing fifth. How has that experience influenced your current coaching style with Virtus Bologna?
Luca Banki: The experience with the Latvian national team was immensely rewarding and has intensified my focus on developing player identity and cohesion. At the national level, success is about maximizing each player’s talent and fostering a sense of unity. I’m bringing that same ideology to Virtus bologna, focusing on building team spirit, dialog, and accountability. This translates into better performances on the court.
Editor: With the challenges you’ve described, what practical advice can you give to aspiring coaches who may face similar situations in their careers?
Luca Banki: My advice is to remain patient and committed to the process. success doesn’t come overnight, and understanding your team’s unique dynamics is vital. Emphasize continuous learning, whether through self-reflection or seeking feedback. Lastly, always value relationships with your players; thay are your biggest allies in navigating challenges together.
Editor: Thank you, Coach Banki, for sharing your insights and experiences. As you look ahead to the rest of the season, what are your expectations for Virtus Bologna?
Luca Banki: My expectation is that we will demonstrate betterment each week. I believe that with persistence, focus, and the right adjustments, we can climb the Euroleague standings while maintaining our competitiveness in Serie A. The journey may be tough, but I am confident in our resilience and potential to grow as a team.
Editor: Your determination is truly inspiring, Coach.Thanks again for your time, and we wish you and Virtus Bologna success for the remainder of the season.
Luca Banki: Thank you! I appreciate the prospect to share my thoughts. Let’s hope for better days ahead for our team!