Olimpia Milano Coming to the United Center

Olimpia Milano will play in the second-leg of the Euro Classic Basketball Challenge in Madison Square Garden, the world’s most famous arena, on Sunday, October 4^th at 12 noon.

A/X Armani Exchange Olimpia Milano which will face Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv in the second leg of the inaugural Euro Classic Basketball Tour will practice on the eve of its game at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, October 4th at 12 noon The Saturday session will be very special not only because of the hallowed-halls of the practice facility and the history of its winning traditions that its premiere-players personify, but they will be accompanied by a living Italian legend, Olympic Games and World Championships multi-gold kayak medalist Antonio Rossi, representing the Lombardy Province, where Milano is situated.

The New York Athletic Club is the most prestigious Athletic Club not only in New York, but in America. Founded in 1868, the history of the New York Athletic Club and the Olympic Movement are intertwined going back to the start of the modern games in 1896. In the inaugural Modern Olympic Games, in Athens in 1896, NYAC member Thomas Burke won two gold medals, in the 100 meter and and 400 meter sprints. That set a foundation and began an ever-growing tradition of excellence by NYAC athletes in Olympic competitions. To date, NYAC athletes have claimed 248 medals in Olympic competition, 131 of which have been gold. That excellence in global competition is illustrative of the NYAC steadfast commitment of creating an environment in which excellence will flourish, in athletics, and transcend into business, the arts and culture and over-all individual well-being (mens sana in corpore sano).

Olimpia Milano has been an incredible story of success since its founding in 1936, and as it inaugurates its octogenarian anniversary this season, it is launching the Euro Classic, a tournament 80 years in the making. The Euro Classic will be a great opportunity to showcase the high quality playing-style of the best European teams in the birthplace of basketball. It will be a great opportunity for the Italian community and the Hebrew community to attend a game played in an Old World atmosphere with all the fan-thusiasm© and excitement, all on display in the brave new world of an NBA arena. From the entertainment of the fans displaying their team’s colors, everything will be like watching a championship-caliber basketball game back home, but on the biggest stage in the world, in Madison Square Garden. What makes the event even more spectacular is that the opposing teams are two of the most successful in International basketball history as demonstrated by their having won a total of 9 European titles combined.

The Story of Olimpia Milano: Le Scarpette Rosse (“The Red Shoes”)

Olimpia Milano, which has been owned by fashion icon Giorgio Armani since 2008, is the most successful team in the history of Italian basketball. It has won the Italian championship 26 times, has won the European title 3 times, and has won 8 additional prestigious, international tournaments. Olimpia Milano has always reaffirmed its excellence as the most successful team in Italian basketball history by developing the best Italian players, who take pride in wearing Olimpia Milano’s signature scarpette rosse. This year’s team features team captain, Alessandro Gentile, the youngest M.V.P. in the history of Italian basketball. Olimpia Milano has always been steeped in class, innovation, courage and spirit. With the announcement that successful Head Coach Jasmin Repesa will coach the team for the 2015-2016 season, Repesa will be reunited with Gentile whom he coached in Treviso as a young prodigy. Olimpia Milano is renowned for excellence and is the most widely-followed team in Italy, with an average of 9,000 fans attending its home games. Every home game is broadcast live on National TV.

The Story of Maccabi Tel Aviv:

Maccabi Tel Aviv has always been the symbol of Israeli sports, a team which is synonymous with the nation of Israel, having won 51 national championships in 60 seasons, starting in 1954. The club has always been an International powerhouse, mixing the best Israeli players with the best American players. Maccabi’s history is a history of excellence. In 2004 and 2005 the team was able to repeat and win back-to-back European titles. In its history, it won six European championships, while participating in 15 finals and winning 41 national cup tournaments. Maccabi was the first International team to defeat an NBA team back in 1978 in Tel Aviv, and then the first team to defeat an NBA team on its home court in 2005. It has played 22 games against NBA teams in the United States. The club has recently opened an office in New York City to sustain the interest and support for the team from the Hebrew-American community.

Olimpia Milano and the U.S.A.

For Olimpia Milano, inaugurating the Euro Classic is in character with its long and storied history. In 1987 Olimpia took part in the first official competition between an NBA and a European team, held in Milwaukee. No club outside the NBA has more representatives in the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in Springfield: Coaches Cesare Rubini and Sandro Gamba, and players Dino Meneghin, Senator Bill Bradley and Bob McAdoo. The list of great players in America who used to play for Olimpia is impressive and also includes Mike D’Antoni (whose number 8 jersey has been retired), Danilo Gallinari, John Gianelli, Albert King, Rolando Blackman, Joe Barry Carroll, Skip Thoren, and Antoine Carr.

***To attend the inaugural Euro Classic Basketball Games: Olimpia Milano vs. Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv

on Sunday, Oct. 4th @ 12 noon in the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden

Individual tickets: may be obtained via www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.

EA7 Olimpia Milano website: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/

Link to the Version in Italiano: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/press-kit/

***For Immediate Release

For more information:

In Milan contact Claudio Limardi, Director of Marketing & Communication EA7 Olimpia Milano, ufficiostampa@olimpiamilano.com

In NYC contact Art Kenney olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

PALLACANESTRO OLIMPIA MILANO S.S.R.L. piazzale Lotto, 15 (presso Palalido) – 20148 Milano–Italy Tel +39 0270001615 Fax +39 02740608 Capitale Sociale € 3.000.000,00 i.v. – Registro Imprese Milano / Codice Fiscale / Partita IVA 01852920154 – R.E.A. 1406310

Società a socio unico soggetta ad attività di direzione e coordinamento di Giorgio Armani S.p.A.

To the NY Metro Media:

On Friday, October 2nd, please join us for a Press Conference welcoming Giorgio Armani’s Palacanestro Olimpia Milano , the most successful club in the history of Italian basketball. They will visit NYC to play the second-leg the inaugural Euro Classic Basketball Challenge against the most successful club in the history of Israeli basketball, Maccabi Tel Aviv. The Press Conference will be held at Consulate General of Italy in New York.

Date: Friday, October 2, 2015

Time: 5:30 p.m.

Address: 690 Park Ave, between 68th & 69th Streets

The Euro Classic Basketball Challenge will be held in the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden on Sunday, October 4th at 12 noon.

__________________________________________________________________

Press Release #12

The Italians Are Coming! … to the Big Apple! …

to Madison Square Garden!

Italian basketball powerhouse Olimpia Milano, will face-off against Israeli powerhouse Maccabi Tel Aviv in the second leg of the inaugural Euro Classic Tournament in Madison Garden on Sunday, October 4^th at 12 noon.

For the very first time, European-style basketball in its purest form will be on display in the world’s most famous arena Madison Square Garden, when the most successful team in Italian Basketball history Olimpia Milano hosts the most successful team in Israel, Maccabi Tel Aviv in the inaugural Euro Classic Tournament. Olimpia Milano has been an incredible story of success since its founding in 1936, and as it inaugurates its octogenarian anniversary this season, it is launching the Euro Classic, a tournament 80 years in the making. The Euro Classic will be a great opportunity to showcase the high quality playing-style of the best European teams in the birthplace of basketball. It will be a great opportunity for the Italian community and the Hebrew community to attend a game played in an Old World atmosphere with all the fan-thusiasm© and excitement, all on display in the brave new world of an NBA arena. From the entertainment of the fans displaying their team’s colors, everything will be like watching a championship-caliber basketball game back home, but on the biggest stage in the world. What makes the event even more spectacular is that the opposing teams are two of the most successful in International basketball history as demonstrated by their having won a total of 9 European titles combined

.The Story of Olimpia Milano: Le Scarpette Rosse (“The Red Shoes”)

Olimpia Milano, which has been owned by fashion icon Giorgio Armani since 2008, is the most successful team in the history of Italian basketball. It has won the Italian championship 26 times, has won the European title 3 times, and has won 8 additional prestigious, international tournaments. Olimpia Milano has always reaffirmed its excellence as the most successful team in Italian basketball history by developing the best Italian players, who take pride in wearing Olimpia Milano’s signature scarpette rosse. This year’s team features team captain, Alessandro Gentile, the youngest M.V.P. in the history of Italian basketball. Olimpia Milano has always been steeped in class, innovation, courage and spirit. With the announcement that successful Head Coach Jasmin Repesa will coach the team for the 2015- 2016 season, Repesa will be reunited with Gentile whom he coached in Treviso as a young prodigy. Olimpia Milano is renowned for excellence and is the most widely followed team in Italy, with an average of 9,000 fans attending its home games. Every home game is broadcast live on National TV.

The Story of Maccabi Tel Aviv:

Maccabi Tel Aviv has always been the symbol of Israeli sports, a team which is synonymous with the nation of Israel, having won 51 national championships in 61 seasons, starting in 1954. The club has always been an International powerhouse, mixing the best Israeli players with the best American players. Maccabi’s history is a history of excellence. In 2004 and 2005 the team was able to repeat and win back-to-back European titles. In its history, it won six European championships, while participating in 15 finals and winning 41 national cup tournaments. Maccabi was the first International team to defeat an NBA team back in 1978 in Tel Aviv, and then the first team to defeat an NBA team on its home court in 2005. It has played 22 games against NBA teams in the United States.

Olimpia Milano and the U.S.A.

For Olimpia Milano, inaugurating the Euro Classic is in character with its long and storied history. In 1987 Olimpia took part in the inaugural McDonald’s Open, the first official competition between an NBA and a European team, held in Milwaukee. No club outside the NBA has more representatives in the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in Springfield: Coaches Cesare Rubini and Sandro Gamba, and players Dino Meneghin, Senator Bill Bradley and Bob McAdoo. The list of great players in America who used to play for Olimpia is impressive and also includes Mike D’Antoni (whose number 8 jersey has been retired), Danilo Gallinari, John Gianelli, Albert King, Rolando Blackman, Joe Barry Carroll, Skip Thoren, and Antoine Carr.

*To attend the inaugural Euro Classic: Olimpia Milano vs. Maccabi Tel Aviv

In New York: Sunday, Oct. 4th @ 12 noon at the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden

Individual tickets: may be obtained via www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.

EA7 Olimpia Milano website: http://www.olimpiamilano.com

Link to the Version in Italiano: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/press-kit/

========================================

Olimpia Milano – Fact Sheet

Olimpia Milano, was created in 1936 under the zodiac sign of success, and is the most successful team in the history of the Italian Basketball. Its colors are white and red, and the team is often referred to as the Scarpette Ross (The Red Shoes) because team officials initially negotiated for Pirelli to make red Superga sneakers and then in 1971 the Club imported red sneakers from Converse Chuck Taylor All-Stars from the U.S.A. for its players. The nickname stuck and is still used by the Club’s many fans throughout Italy.

From its founding in 1936 until 1955 the Club was sponsored by Borletti and was called Borletti Milano. From 1956 to 1973 it was renamed Simmenthal. Other famous sponsorships were

Biilly, Simac, Tracer, Phillips, Recoaro, Stefanel, Sony, Adecco, Pippo, Breil, Armani Jeans and presently EA7-Emporio Armani. Olimpia Milano has been owned by fashion icon Giorgio Armani since 2008.

Olimpia Milano is the most successful basketball team in Italy, having won 26 Italian Championships (scudetti), 3 Euroleague Championship Titles, 4 Italian Cup Championships, 1 Intercontinental Cup Title, 3 Saporta Cups Titles, 2 Korac’ Cup Titles and 22 junior team titles.

Olimpia Milano by the Numbers: 26 Italian Championships: 1936, 1937, 1938, 1939, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1957, 1958,

1959, 1960, 1962, 1963, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1972, 1982, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1996, 2014 4 Italian Cup Championships: 1972, 1986, 1987, 1996

3 Euroleague Championships (Coppa dei Campioni): 1966, 1987, 1988 1 Intercontinental Cup Title: 1987 3 Saporta Cup Titles: 1971, 1972, 1976 2 Korać Cup Titles: 1985, 1993

1 Triple Crown: 1987 1 Little Slam: 1972

No club outside the NBA has more representatives in the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in Springfield than does Olimpia Milano: Coaches Cesare Rubini and Sandro Gamba, and players Dino Meneghin, Senator Bill Bradley and Bob McAdoo. The list of great players who use to play for Olimpia is impressive and also includes Mike D’Antoni, Danilo Gallinari, John Gianelli, Albert King, Rolando Blackman, Joe Barry Carroll, Skip Thoren, and Antoine Carr.

Olimpia Milano has retired the jerseys of two players:

Mike D’Antoni (Number 8) and

Arthur Kenney (Number 18).

Senator Bill Bradley wore Number 15.

*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ***

For more information:

In Milan contact Claudio Limardi, Director of Marketing & Communication EA7 Olimpia Milano, ufficiostampa@olimpiamilano.com

In NYC contact Art Kenney, olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

__________________________________________________________________

Press Release #11: The Brooklyn Connections

The Brooklyn Bridge … to Milano … to Madison Square Garden. How do you get there? … Practice, practice, practice!

Olimpia Milano will play Maccabi Tel Aviv in the second-leg of the inaugural Euro Classic Basketball Challenge on Sunday, October 4^th at 12 noon at M.S.G. Here is a brief “Q & A” with 3-time Haggerty Award winner and proud Brooklynite, Charles Jenkins.

Charles, one often hears that Brooklyn would be the 4th largest city in the United States, if it were an independent city. Is this true?

Answer: True: Brooklyn, NY, if Independent Would Be 4th Largest City in the United States. In population terms, Brooklyn, NY would be the 4th largest city in the USA if it were independent. But Brooklyn isn’t because its been a borough of New York City for over a century — and is likely to remain so! In terms of population, Brooklyn is bigger than Philadelphia and Houston, and only slightly smaller than Chicago. Brooklyn, NY is bigger in population than San Francisco, San Jose and Seattle combined. Brooklyn is about twice the size of Milano There are about two-and-a-half million Brooklynites and about one-and-a-quarter Milanesi.

Tell us about what’s changed Brooklyn.

Brooklyn has undergone a significant revitalization and growth, physically, financially and culturally, and Brooklyn is cool! I am looking forward to showing my new teammate, Jamel McLean who was born in Brooklyn but grew-up elsewhere, the new wonders of Brooklyn!

After High School you attended Hofstra University where you were a very special player, winning the Haggerty Award, given to the best New York Metro Collegiate player for three years during your career. Would you tell us about that, please?

“Only two other elite players have achieved that milestone: Jim McMillian, who played at Thomas Jefferson High School in Brooklyn and won it three years at Columbia University and later won the NBA Championship with the L.A. Lakers in 1972. The other “trifecta” winner was Chris Mullin who transferred from Power Memorial when it closed to Xavarian High School in Brooklyn and won it three times at St. John’s, and then went on to become a Naismith Memorial Hall of Famer. I am honored to be in that elite company, as I am honored to be part of our elite Olimpia Milano Club, the most successful club in the history of Italian Basketball, and to play for our iconic owner, Giorgio Armani.

The wonderful Alumni, fans and friends of Hofstra University saw it fitting to retire my number 22 several years ago, and I was and am deeply honored by their gesture. To honor them and my friends back in my home town, I am wearing “numero venti-due.” I am so looking forward to Sunday, October 4th when my teammates and I visit Madison Square Garden and we will have an opportunity to show the largest (NYC) and fourth-largest (Brooklyn) cities in the USA the excitement of Olimpia Milano pallacanestro when we play Maccabi Tel Aviv. In 1492, Columbus sailed the Atlantic Ocean to discover the New World. In October, we make a transatlantic flight so that the New World can discover The World of Italian Basketball excellence, Olimpia Milano.”

There will be some special guests at the Euro Classic in MSG.

“I will be looking forward to meeting Albert King, a Brooklyn legend who will be honored at half-time of the game. He went on to become ACC Player of the year and one of the top ACC players of all-time for his outstanding career at the University of Maryland. After, he starred at the NJ Nets, who are now the Brooklyn Nets and later came to Olimpia Milano and was key in securing the title for us in the final game. His front-court teammate at the Nets, Len Elmore, who graduated from Power Memorial, the University of Maryland and Harvard Law School will be Albert’s guest, and I am looking-forward to meeting him too. Of course, he is from Brooklyn! As the book says, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, but also great players are grown there too … in the Brooklyn playgrounds. “There must be something in the water!” All my friends from Brooklyn and my beloved Alma-Mater will be there, and there are likely to be some other surprise-guests too!’

“The Euro Classic will be quite a celebration for all who attend!”

***************************

Charles Jenkins interview: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/jenkins-piaccio-perche-gioco-sempre-duro/

Jamel McLean: the work-out: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/jamel-mclean-al-lavoro-il-video/

**************************

***To attend the inaugural Euro Classic Basketball Challenge:

Olimpia Milano vs. Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv

NYC: Sun., Oct. 4th @ 12 noon at the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden

Individual tickets: may be obtained via www.Ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.

EA7 Olimpia Milano website: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/

Link to the Version in Italiano: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/press-kit/

For more information:

In Milan contact Claudio Limardi, Direttore Comunicazione e Marketing EA7 Olimpia Milano, ufficiostampa@olimpiamilano.com

In NYC contact Art Kenney olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

***REMINDER: Media Meet and Greet: Come and meet the best club in the history of Italian basketball.

Olimpia Milano Press Conference in Chicago

Date: Wednesday, Sept. 30^th @ 5 p.m.

Place: NAISHF, 1431 W. Taylor Street

R.S.V.P. olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

Olimpia Milano Press Conference in NYC

Date: Friday, Oct. 2^nd @ 5:30 p.m.

Place: Italian Consulate General, 690 Park Ave.

R.S.V.P. (by 5 p.m. 10/01) olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

***PLEASE CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE BY e-MAILING: olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

___________________________________________________________________

PRESS RELEASE #10

The Ambassadors of Italian Basketball, Olimpia Milano, Are Coming to Chicago & NYC for the Inaugural Euro Classic Tournament! … Brooklyn “Boyz to Milano Men”

On Sunday, October 4th at 12 noon, Olimpia Milano and Maccabi Tel Aviv will play at Madison Square Garden in the second-leg of the inaugural Euro Classic Challenge. The first leg of the Euro Classic will be played on Thursday, October 1st at 7 p.m. at Chicago’s United Center. Olimpia Milano will be led by two native-born Brooklynites, Charles Jenkins and Jamel McLean.

“Charles In Charge”

Charles Jenkins grew-up playing first at Holy Cross High School before transferring to Springfield Gardens High School. He played his college basketball at Hofstra University where he won the prestigious Haggerty Award, awarded to the best collegiate player in the NY-Metro area for three seasons, only the third player ever to receive that aconite (the others were Jim McMillian of Columbia U. and Chris Mullin of St. John’s U.). Charles finished his career scoring a total of 2,513 points, the second-most ever scored, behind David Robinson of Navy. His Number 22 at Hofstra has been retired. Charles joined Olimpia Milano after playing for several teams in different countries, but most recently after two seasons with Red Star of Belgrade. Last season, under his leadership, his team, Red Star, won the Serbian League Championship and the Serbian Cup. With Olimpia Milano, he will wear his Number 22 which he made famous while at Hofstra, and is looking forward to hearing the Milanesi chant, “Forza Charlie, forza venti-due!”

“McLean and Mean”

Jamel McLean was also Brooklyn-born, but shortly after, his family moved to Hampton, Virginia, where he eventually played at Bethel High School. He attended the University of Tulsa before transferring to Xavier University in Cincinnati. He then played in several BeneLux countries and most recently for Alba Berlin where he was League M.V.P. before signing with Olimpia Milano. James will be looking forward to visiting the Big Apple during the inaugural Euro Classic game at Madison Square Garden, when he can make a side-trip or two with fellow- Brooklynite, Charles Jenkins who can give him the royal-tour of his beloved Brooklyn.

The Story of Olimpia Milano: Le Scarpette Rosse (“The Red Shoes”)

Olimpia Milano, which has been owned by fashion icon Giorgio Armani since 2008, is the most successful team in the history of Italian basketball. It has won the Italian championship 26 times, has won the European title 3 times, and has won 8 additional prestigious, international tournaments. Olimpia Milano has always reaffirmed its excellence as the most successful team in Italian basketball history by developing the best Italian players, who take pride in wearing Olimpia Milano’s signature scarpette rosse. This year’s team features team captain, Alessandro Gentile, the youngest M.V.P. in the history of Italian basketball. Olimpia Milano has always been steeped in class, innovation, courage and spirit. With the announcement that successful Head Coach Jasmin Repesa will coach the team for the 2015- 2016 season, Repesa will be reunited with Gentile whom he coached in Treviso as a young prodigy. Olimpia Milano is renowned for excellence and is the most widely-followed team in Italy, with an average of 9,000 fans attending its home games. Every home game is broadcast live on National TV.

The Story of Maccabi Tel Aviv

Olimpia Milano and the U.S.A.

*To Attend the inaugural Euro Classic: Olimpia Milano vs. Maccabi Tel Aviv

In Chicago: Thursday, Oct. 1st @ 7 p.m. at The United Center

In New York: Sunday, Oct. 4th @ 12 noon. at the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden

Individual tickets: may be obtained via www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000. EA7 Olimpia Milano website: http://www.olimpiamilano.com

Link to the Version in Italiano: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/press-kit/

***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

For more information:

In Milan contact Claudio Limardi, Direttore Comunicazione e Marketing EA7 Olimpia Milano, ufficiostampa@olimpiamilano.com

In NYC contact Art Kenney olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

***REMINDER: Media Meet and Greet: Come and meet the best club in the history of Italian basketball.

Olimpia Milano Press Conference in Chicago

Date: Wednesday, Sept. 30^th @ 5 p.m.

Place: NAISHF, 1431 W. Taylor Street

R.S.V.P. olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

Olimpia Milano Press Conference in NYC

Date: Friday, Oct. 2^nd @ 5:30 p.m.

Place: Italian Consulate General, 690 Park Ave.

R.S.V.P. (by 5 p.m. 10/01) olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

***PLEASE CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE BY e-MAILING: olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

============================================

___________________________________________________________________

PRESS RELEASE #9

Olimpia Milano Basketball Club To Be Honored With Permanent Exhibit at NIASHF in Chicago

New Olimpia Milano Exhibit at the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame (NIASHF) with Memorabilia and Club History on display on September 30th at 5 p.m.

Olimpia Milano, the most successful club in the history of Italian basketball will be honored at the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame in Chicago when founder George Randazzo presides over a press conference and on Wednesday, September 30th at 5 PM. A new exhibit with memorabilia of Olimpia Milano history as it celebrates the 80th Anniversary of its founding will be on display for the first time. The team, which has been owned by icon stylist and fashion guru Giorgio Armani since 2008, will be in town to play Maccabi Tel Aviv in the first leg of the inaugural Euro Classic Basketball Tour. The game will be played on Thursday, October 1st at the United Center at 7 p.m. The teams then will travel to New York City where on Sunday, October 4th at 12 noon they will face-off again in Madison Square Garden.

The Olimpia Milano Exhibit:

The new exhibit will have Olimpia Milano memorabilia including their signature scarpette rosse. The exhibit will also include photos of notable figures of the Club’s storied past, including:

5 Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame Members: 

Cesare Rubini- who as player, coach or administrator set the standard for excellence by winning 15 Italian League Championships, 1 European Cup of Champions, 3 Cup of Cups and directed the National Team to a silver medal in the 1980 Olympics. As a young man, he won a Olympic gold medal in water- polo for Italy (London 1948) and bronze medal (Helsinki 1952).

Sandro Gamba– as a player and then assistant coach formed the best coaching-tandem in the history of Italian basketball, and played or coached the team to 10 Italian League Championships, 1 European Cup of Champions title, 2 Cup of Cup Winners titles and coached the Italian team to its only Olympic medal in its history, silver in 1980 (Moscow).

Dino Meneghin- after 14 successful seasons in Varese, transferred to Milan and won 5 Italian League Championships, 2 European Cup of Champions titles, 1 Intercontinental Cup title and 2 Italian Cups. Led the Italian team to the silver medal in the 1980 Olympics (Moscow).

Senator Bill Bradley– While a student at Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar, commuted to Milan and led Olimpia Milano to its first European Cup of Champions title in 1966, teaming with U. of Illinois alumnus Dwayne “Skip” Thoren. Bill Bradley joined the NY Knicks and won the N.B.A. Championship in 1970 & 1973.

Bob McAdoo– won the N.B.A. title in 1982 & 1985. Won 3 Italian League titles, 2 European Cup of Champions titles, 1 Intercontinental Cup title and 1 Italian Cup.

Players Whose Numbers Were Retired: 

Mike D’Antoni – Number 8 was retired on March 13, 2015. Mike played 13 seasons for Olimpia Milano and Leading Scorer of all-time (5,573 points) and Games Played (455 games). His teams won 5 Italian League Championships, 2 European Cup of Champions titles, 1 Intercontinental Cup title and 2 Italian Cups.

Arthur Kenney – Number 18 was retired on May 10, 2013. Affectionately known as Arturo, he played 3 seasons in Milano during which the team’s winning percentage was 84.3%. He averaged a career double-double with a 53.4% field-goal shooting percentage. His teams won 1 Italian League title, 2 European Cup of Cup Winners titles and 1 Italian Cup.

Important Italian American Players: 

Mike Sylvester – Born in Cincinatti, Ohio, played at Dayton University, Mike payed 3 seasons for Olimpia Milano and won the silver medal playing for Italy in the 1980 Olympic Games (Moscow).

Dante Calabria – Born in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, Dante played for legendary coach Dean Smith at UNC and played for Olimpia Milano for 3 seasons.

Mason Rocca – Born in Evanston, Illinois, and like Sen. Bradley, is an alumnus of Princeton University. Mason played 4 seasons for Olimpia Milano and served as team captain.

John Gianelli – Born in Stockton, CA and John played for Olimpia Milano for three seasons winning the Italian League title in 1982. He was on the NY Knicks Championship team in 1973.

The Story of Olimpia Milano: Le Scarpette Rosse (“The Red Shoes”)

Olimpia Milano, which has been owned by fashion icon Giorgio Armani since 2008, is the most successful team in the history of Italian basketball. It has won the Italian championship 26 times, has won the European title 3 times, and has won 8 additional prestigious, international tournaments. Olimpia Milano has always reaffirmed its excellence as the most successful team in Italian basketball history by developing the best Italian players, who take pride in wearing Olimpia Milano’s signature scarpette rosse. This year’s team features team captain, Alessandro Gentile, the youngest M.V.P. in the history of Italian basketball. Olimpia Milano has always been steeped in class, innovation, courage and spirit. With the announcement that successful Head Coach Jasmin Repesa will coach the team for the 2015-2016 season, Repesa will be reunited with Gentile whom he coached in Treviso as a young prodigy. Olimpia Milano is renowned for excellence and is the most widely-followed team in Italy, with an average of 9,000 fans attending its home games. Every home game is broadcast live on National TV.

The Story of Maccabi Tel Aviv:

***Save-The-Date: The 38^th Annual NIASHF Induction Gala Dinner – on Saturday, November 7^th at the Intercontinental Chicago, 505 N. Michigan Avenue, so Save-The-Date and reserve by calling the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame (NIASHF) at (312) 226-5566.

Euro Classic Challenge: Olimpia Milano vs. Maccabi Tel Aviv

Chicago: Thursday, October 1st at The United Center @ 7 p.m.

New York: Sunday, October at Madison Square Garden at 12 noon.

Individual tickets: www.Ticketmaster.com for Groups call 312-455-7469.

Olimpia Milano website: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/

Link to the Version in Italiano: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/press-kit/

***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

For more information:

In Milan contact Claudio Limardi, Direttore Comunicazione e Marketing EA7 Olimpia Milano, ufficiostampa@olimpiamilano.com

In NYC contact Art Kenney olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

***REMINDER: Chicago Media Press Conference on Wed., Sept. 30th at 5:00 p.m. at NIASHF, 1431 W Taylor Street. Come and meet the best club in the history of Italian basketball. Please confirm attendance with e-mail to olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

_______________________________________________________________

PRESS RELEASE #8

Olimpia Milano: You Are What You Eataly

Armani Olimpia Milano, the Ambassadors of Italian Basketball will face-off against Maccabi on Thursday, October 1st at 7:00 p.m., at the United Center in the first-leg of the inaugural Euro Classic Basketball Challenge. The challenge will continue when the teams travel to The Big Apple to play in Madison Square Garden on Sunday, October 4th at 12 noon.

Olimpia Milano, Italy’s most successful basketball club, owned since 2008 by fashion icon, Giorgio Armani, will travel from it’s home-base to sister-city Chicago to play Maccabi Tel Aviv in the inaugural Euro Classic Challenge. Not only will they face another of Europe’s top franchises, but they will also confront the daunting challenge of traversing 7 time zones. To offset that they have a travel game-plan to offset the logistical shock … a visit to Eataly-Chicago for its first meal – could there be a even better, more appetizing remedy? … non ci credo! (I don’t think so!)

Eataly, which is a popular destination in Milano, is the largest Italian marketplace in the world, comprising a variety of restaurants, food and beverage counters, bakery, retail items, and a cooking school. Eatly also has outlets in Chicago and New York City, where conveniently the Euro Classic Challenge will be played.

Olimpia Milano, which has valued giving-back to the community during its 80 years of history, and Eataly have formed a partnership for the benefit of the Italian community in Chicago. Eataly will be promoting the October 1st event to be held at the United Center and offering its customers at its flagship store a very special discount if tickets are booked through TicketMaster.com and using the PromoCode SIEF. SIEF (Scuola Italiana Enrico Fermi), will be the first bi-lingual school in Chicago, will start Kindergarten and Pre-K classed in September 2016, and will benefit by receiving a percentage of the net ticket-sales.

One of Chicago’s nickname is that it is The City of Broad Shoulders, and Olimpia Milano will be showing-off the broad shoulders of its heralded players when, as the most successful team in the history of Italian basketball, it takes-on the most successful team in the history of Israeli basketball in the Euro Classic Challenge. Olimpia Milano has always been a pioneer in basketball. They played in the inaugural McDonald’s Open in 1987 held at Milwaukee’s Mecca Arena. To kick-off the celebration of its 80^th Anniversary season, it is now inaugurating the Euro Classic Challenge.

The Euro Classic will be a great opportunity to showcase the high quality playing-style of the best European teams in the birthplace of basketball. It will be a great opportunity for the Italian community and the Hebrew community to attend a game played in an Old World atmosphere with all the fan-thusiasm© and excitement, all on display in the brave new world of an NBA arena. From the entertainment of the fans displaying their team’s colors, everything will be like watching a championship-caliber basketball game back home, but on the biggest stage in the world. What makes the event even more spectacular is that the opposing teams are two of the most successful in International basketball history as demonstrated by their having won a total of 9 European titles combined.

The Story of Olimpia Milano: Le Scarpette Rosse (“The Red Shoes”)

Olimpia Milano, which has been owned by fashion icon Giorgio Armani since 2008, is the most successful team in the history of Italian basketball. It has won the Italian championship 26 times, has won the European title 3 times, and has won 8 additional prestigious, international tournaments. Olimpia Milano has always reaffirmed its excellence as the most successful team in Italian basketball history by developing the best Italian players, who take pride in wearing Olimpia Milano’s signature scarpette rosse. This year’s team features team captain, Alessandro Gentile, the youngest M.V.P. in the history of Italian basketball. Olimpia Milano has always been steeped in class, innovation, courage and spirit. With the announcement that successful Head Coach Jasmin Repesa will coach the team for the 2015- 2016 season, Repesa will be reunited with Gentile whom he coached in Treviso as a young prodigy. Olimpia Milano is renowned for excellence and is the most widely-followed team in Italy, with an average of 9,000 fans attending its home games. Every home game is broadcast live on National TV. It has over 31,000 followers on Twitter and is growing rapidly in social media.

The Story of Maccabi Tel Aviv:

Olimpia Milano and the U.S.A.

For Olimpia Milano, inaugurating the Euro Classic is in character with its long and storied history. In 1987 Olimpia took part in the first official competition between an NBA and a European team, held in Milwaukee. No club outside the NBA has more representatives in the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in Springfield: Coaches Cesare Rubini and Sandro Gamba, and players Dino Meneghin, Senator Bill Bradley and Bob McAdoo. The list of great players in America who used to play for Olimpia is impressive and also includes Mike D’Antoni (whose number 8 jersey has been retired), Danilo Gallinari, John Gianelli, Albert King, Rolando Blackman, Joe Barry Carroll, Skip Thoren, and Antoine Carr.

*To attend the inaugural Euro Classic: Olimpia Milano vs. Maccabi Tel Aviv

In Chicago: Thursday, Oct. 1st @ 7:00 p.m. at The United Center

In New York: Sunday, Oct. 4th @ 12 noon at the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden

EA7 Olimpia Milano website: http://www.olimpiamilano.com

Link to the Version in Italiano: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/press-kit/

For more information:

In Milan contact Claudio Limardi, Direttore Comunicazione e Marketing EA7 Olimpia Milano, ufficiostampa@olimpiamilano.com

In NYC contact Art Kenney olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

____________________________________________________________

Press Release #7: Olimpia Milano: Family Style

Olimpia Milano: “It’s A Family Affair,” “All In The Family” & “We Are Family”

Olimpia Milano Basketball Team will face-off against Maccabi Tel Aviv in the inaugural Euro Classic Basketball Games in Chicago’s United Center on Thursday, Oct. 1^st at 7 p.m., and at New York’s Madison Square Garden on Sunday, Oct. 4^th at 12 noon.

Through the years, the best Italian team of all-time has been known as the Olimpia Milano family, but several players or former players have literal family connections:

Allesandro Gentile, the youngest Captain in Olimpia Milano’s history, and the youngest playoff M.V.P. in the history of the Italian League is the offspring of Fernando Gentile who played for Olimpia Milano for 4 seasons. “Ale” wears the number 5 on his jersey, to honor his legendary father, “Nando.” In pick-up games recently, the great Nando has been over-heard saying, that he his proud to wear number 5, because it’s Ale’s number! Excepy for the hight differential, you could say that Ale is the mirror-image of “Nando” because Ale is a rightie, and Nando southpaw! Ale’s brother, Stefano Gentile, also played for Olimpia Milano for one season.

Danilo Gallinari, was drafted by the NY Knicks in the first round by former Olimpia Milano player and later coach Mike D’Antoni and is an outstanding shooter He is the son of Vittorio Gallinari who was an outstanding defensive player.

Albert King played for 4 NBA teams, is the brother of Bernard King. At the end of the 1988-1989 season, he signed with Olimpia Milano and played the last two games of the regular season and 12 playoff games, together with Bob McAdoo, Mike D’Antoni and Dino Meneghin. In the last playoff game he scored a season-high 22 points to insure the title.

The Story of Olimpia Milano: Le Scarpette Rosse (“The Red Shoes”)

Olimpia Milano, which has been owned by fashion icon Giorgio Armani since 2008, is the most successful team in the history of Italian basketball. It has won the Italian championship 26 times, has won the European title 3 times, and has won 8 additional prestigious, international tournaments. Olimpia Milano has always reaffirmed its excellence as the most successful team in Italian basketball history by developing the best Italian players, who take pride in wearing Olimpia Milano’s signature “scarpette rosse,” (red shoes). This year’s team features team captain, Alessandro Gentile, the youngest M.V.P. in the history of Italian basketball. Olimpia Milano has always been steeped in class, innovation, courage and spirit. Olimpia Milano is renowned for excellence and is the most widely-followed team in Italy, with an average of 9,000 fans attending its home games. Every home game is broadcast live on National TV. Olimpia Milano has over 31,000 followers on Twitter, and continues to grow in social media appeal.

The Story of Maccabi Tel Aviv:

Maccabi Tel Aviv has always been the symbol of Israeli sports, a team which is synonymous with the nation of Israel, having won 51 national championships in 61 seasons, starting in 1954. In 2004 and 2005 the team was able to repeat and win back-to-back European titles. In its history, it won six European championships, while participating in 15 finals and winning 41 national cup tournaments.

Olimpia Milano and the U.S.A.

*To attend the inaugural Euro Classic: Olimpia Milano vs. Maccabi Tel Aviv

In Chicago: Thursday, Oct. 1st @ 7:00 p.m. at The United Center

In New York: Sunday, Oct. 4th @ 12 noon at the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden

Individual tickets: may be obtained via www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.

EA7 Olimpia Milano website: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/

For more information: In Milan contact Claudio Limardi, Director of Marketing & Communication EA7 Olimpia Milano, ufficiostampa@olimpiamilano.com ; In NYC contact Art Kenney olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

***REMINDER: Chicago Media Press Conference on Wed., Sept. 30th at 5:00 p.m. at NIASHF, 1431 W Taylor Street. Come and meet the best club in the history of Italian basketball. Please confirm attendance with e-mail to olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

______________________________________________________________

Press Release #6: OLIMPIA MILANO & THE NY KNICKS

Olimpia Milano and the NY Knickerbockers

Olimpia Milano, owned by fashion icon Giorgio Armani, has had many player connections with the N.B.A., but the most numerous connections are with the NY Knicks.

Olimpia Milano will face-off against Maccabi Tel Aviv in the inaugural Euro Classic Basketball Challenge on Thursday, October 1^st at 7 p.m. at Chicago’s United Center and then on Sunday, October 4^th at 12 noon on the Knicks’ home-court, Madison Square Garden.

OLIMPIA MILANO & THE NY KNICKS – Over the years, many players at Olimpia Milano have had NBA connections, but none more numerous than the NY Knickerbockers. Here are some of the most notable.

Senator Bill Bradley won the European Cup of Champions (1966)with Olimpia Milano, and was on the NY Knicks NBA ChampionshipTeams (1970 & 1973).

Mike D’Antoni played for Olimpia Milano for 13 seasons, holds the career scoring record, and won the European Cup of Champions twice (1987 & 1988) and coached the NY Knicks (2008-2012).

Danilo Gallinari played for Olimpia Milano and was the first-round draft choice by the NY Knicks in 2008 and played with New York until 2011 when he was traded to Denver.

Bob McAdoo played for the NY Knicks (1976-1979) and won 2 titles with the L.A. Lakers. He player for Olimpia Milano (1986-1990) and won the European Cup of Champions (1987 & 1988) and the Italian Championship (1987-1989).

Rolando Blackman played for the NY Knicks (1992-1994) and with Olimpia Milano (1995-1996) and helped the club win the italian League Championship. (lo scudetto)

John Gianelli played for Olimpia Milano for 3 seasons (1980-1983) and won the Italian League Championship in 1982, and was on the NY Knicks NBA 1973 Championship Team.

Albert King player for 4 NBA teams, is the brother of Bernard King. At the end of the 1988-1989 season, he signed with Olimpia Milano and played the last two games of the regular season and 12 playoff games, together with Bob McAdoo, Mike D’Antoni and Dino Meneghin. In the last playoff game he scored a season-high 22 points to insure the title.

The Story of Olimpia Milano: Le Scarpette Rosse (“The Red Shoes”)

The Story of Maccabi Tel Aviv:

Olimpia Milano and the U.S.A.

*To attend the inaugural Euro Classic: Olimpia Milano vs. Maccabi Tel Aviv

In Chicago: Thursday, Oct. 1st @ 7:00 p.m. at The United Center

In New York: Sunday, Oct. 4th @ 12 noon at the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden .

Individual tickets: may be obtained via www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.

EA7 Olimpia Milano website: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/

Link to the Version in Italiano: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/press-kit/

***For immediate release***

For more information:

In Milan contact Claudio Limardi, Director of Marketing & Communication EA7 Olimpia Milano, ufficiostampa@olimpiamilano.com

In NYC contact Art Kenney olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

***REMINDER: Chicago Media Press Conference on Wed., Sept. 30th at 5:00 p.m. at NIASHF, 1431 W Taylor Street. Come and meet the best club in the history of Italian basketball. Please confirm attendance with e-mail to olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

_____________________________________________________

PRESS RELEASE #5

Olimpia Milano and Maccabi Tel Aviv –

On-court Rivals Enter into a Social Commitment Partnership to Give-back to Milano’s sister-city, Chicago

For the first time two teams from the Euroleague will play against each other in the United States. On Thursday, October 1st at 7 p.m., at the United Center in Chicago the first leg of the inaugural Euro Classic will be played between Olimpia Milano and Maccabi Tel Aviv. Olimpia Milano for the first time will play under the brand A | X Armani Exchange. The teams will then travel to The Big Apple where they will play in Madison Square Garden on Sunday, Oct. 4th at 12 Noon.

The two teams have created the “Give Back Program Ticket to battle violence.” About 4,000 tickets, in sections “200” and “300” will be sold at a special price of $25. A substantial portion of the proceeds will be donated to Breakthrough and its “Coaches United Against Violence Program.” The program has 18 coaches in the public-school league who work with students in the community and schools to teach solving conflict-resolution peacefully.

These group tickets are available through the United Center Box Office, group sales or through Ticketmaster.com by using offer code “giveback”. People are encouraged to buy these tickets for themselves or donate to allow Chicago students, who otherwise would not be able to afford the price of admission, to enjoy a “World Cup” experience at the home of the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks.

Half the proceeds from this program will go towards Breakthrough’s Coaches United Against Violence Program. Coaches United Against Violence has 18 public league coaches that work with students in the community and in schools to learn how to resolve conflicts peacefully.

“Olimpia and Maccabi are proud to be able to give something back to the city of Chicago to battle the issues of violence that are actually a global problem. Both Olimpia and Maccabi in the past have had great players in the Chicago area. Chicago is a city of world-class support which we aspire to have. With this program we hope to have a positive impact on this community,” says general manager Flavio Portaluppi.

Olimpia in the past has had great players from Chicago:

Skip Thoren (former Ellini star and EuroLeague Cup winner in 1966) and later Kiwane Garris (another Ellini standout who will be honored during the game in Chicago on October 1st), James Singleton, (a favorite of the Milanese fans), Mason Rocca (Princeton graduated, ex- Captain of Olimpia who will be honored at half-time on October 1st ), David Moss who was on the Italian League Championship team in 2014.

SOCIAL COMMITMENT has always been a part of Olimpia Milano’s “DNA, and the club is happy to be able to give-back to the community of its sister-city in America, Chicago. Some of the programs organizes by ”programs by organized by Olimpia Milano in Milano are:

ONE TEAM – This ambitious project promoted by the Euroleague focused on Olimpia Milano along with the 8 Founding Partners. Through its Armani Junior Program it is developed a project that aims to spread the importance of sport at a young age, with the great efforts to help schools and the region in the prevention of the phenomena related to bullying and social exclusion.

CSI – Olimpia and the Italian Sports Centre work together in basketball oratories in Milan and for the promotion of sport values in the area.

AJP – Armani Junior Program is an ambitious, exciting engagement founded in 2008 that embodies the desire to give many children the opportunity to play basketball and fall in love with this fantastic sport.

***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

Euro Classic Challenge: Thursday, Oct. 1st @ 7 p.m., at the United Center

For Tickets: www.TicketMaster.com PromoCode: giveback

For more information:

In Milan contact Claudio Limardi, Direttore Comunicazione e Marketing EA7 Olimpia Milano, ufficiostampa@olimpiamilano.com

In NYC contact Art Kenney olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

___________________________________________________________________________

PRESS RELEASE #3

Alessandro Gentile and Olimpia Milano Extend Contract until 2018

The Ambassadors of Italian Basketball, A|X Armani Exchange Olimpia Milano, are coming to America in October to play in the inaugural Euro Classic Games vs. Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv, in The United Center on Thursday, Oct. 1st (7 p.m.) and at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, October 4th (12:30 p.m.).

A!X Armani Exchange Olimpia Milano and Alessandro “Ale” Gentile have decided to extend the existing contract through the 30th of June 2018. Gentile will be starting his fifth season in Milan, and his third season as Captain of Olimpia. Ale is the youngest captain in the history of the storied club. When he became captain, he was also named best young player of the Italian league. In 2014, Ale was voted MVP of the playoffs and led the club to the league title. He also became the club’s fourth leading scorer in the playoffs history.

ALESSANDRO “ALE” GENTILE – “Though drafted by the Houston Rockets, I decided to remain with Milan to help the team to recover the missed opportunity at the end of last season. I have never hidden the strong bond that I have developed with my club, which has given me so much. You could literally say that I have my team colors, white and red, running through my veins, and that I have a strong bond, a very special bond with the city of Milan. In my role as Captain I take full responsibility for any shortcomings, the buck stops here, and that is what prompted me to make this decision.”

THE CAPTAIN – Alessandro Gentile was born November 12, 1992 in Maddaloni in the province of Caserta, near Naples. He is the son of Nando Gentile, a former Captain and Hall of Famer of Olimpia Milano. Before joining Olimpia in December 2011, Ale played in Maddaloni, then with the Virtus Bologna and in Treviso, where, as a young player, he was coached and mentored by Jasmin “Jasko” Repesa, who has just just joined Olimpia Milano as their new head coach. Gentile won a silver European Under 20 with the national team and competed in the European Championships 2013. He was drafted by the NBA’s Houston Rockets in June of 2014. He has been summoned by the Italian National team for upcoming European Championship in 2015.

“All In The Family”/ “It’s A Family Affair” – Olimpia Milano has always been a club with an aura of operating in a family environment. With paternalistic, iconic figures like Naismith Memorial Hall of Famer, Cesare Rubini, President Adolfo Bogoncelli, to current owner, stylist and iconic designer, Giorgio Armani, the Olimpia family is a class unto itself. With this in mind, it is easy to understand why some families have literally passed-on their Olimpia DNA:

Olimpia’s youngest Captain, Alessandro “Ale” Gentile is the son of former Captain and Olimpia Hall of Famer, Nando Gentile. Ale wears his father’s number 5 on his jersey.
Danilo Gallinari, of the NBA’s Denver Nuggets, is the son of Olimpia Hall of Famer, Vittorio Gallinari.

Captain Ale Gentile and new head coach, Jasmin “Jasko” Repesa, will be leading Olimpia Milano when they meet Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv in the inaugural Euro Classic Basketball Games on Thursday, October 1st at Chicago’s United Center @ 7:00 PM, and on Sunday, October 4th in New York’s Madison Square Garden @ 12:30 PM.

The Story of Olimpia Milano: “Le Scarpette Rosse” (The Red Shoes)

Olimpia Milano, which has been owned by fashion icon Giorgio Armani since 2008, is the most successful team in the history of Italian basketball. It has won the Italian championship

26 times, has won the European title 3 times, and has won 8 additional prestigious, international tournaments. Olimpia Milano has always reaffirmed its excellence as the most

successful team in Italian basketball history by developing the best Italian players, who take pride in wearing Olimpia Milano’s signature scarpette rosse. This year’s team

features team captain, Alessandro Gentile, the youngest M.V.P. in the history of Italian basketball. Olimpia Milano has always been steeped in class, innovation, courage and spirit. It’s

the most widely- followed team in Italy, with an average of 9,000 fans attending its home games. Every home game is broadcast live on National TV.

The Story of Maccabi Tel Avi

Olimpia Milano and the U.S.A.

For Olimpia Milano, inaugurating the Euro Classic is in character with its long and storied history. In 1987 Olimpia took part in the first official competition between an NBA and a European team, held in Milwaukee. No club outside the NBA has more representatives in the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in Springfield: Player-Coaches Cesare Rubini and Sandro Gamba, and players Dino Meneghin, Senator Bill Bradley and Bob McAdoo. The list of great players in America who used to play for Olimpia is impressive and also includes Mike D’Antoni (whose number 8 jersey has been retired), Danilo Gallinari, John Gianelli, Albert King, Rolando Blackman, Joe Barry Carroll, Skip Thoren, and Antoine Carr.

Euro Classic Tournament

On Thursday, October 1st at 7:00 p.m., Italian basketball powerhouse Armani Exchange Olimpia Milano, from Chicago’s sister-city Milan, will face-off against Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv at the United Center in the first leg of the inaugural Euro Classic Tournament. On Sunday, October 4th at 12:30 p.m., Armani Exchange Olimpia Milano and Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv will play at Madison Square Garden in the second leg of the inaugural Euro Classic Tournament.

*To attend the inaugural Euro Classic: A/X Armani Exchange Olimpia Milano vs. Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv In Chicago: Thursday, Oct. 1st @ 7:00 p.m. at The United Center In New York: Sunday, Oct. 4th @ 12:30 p.m. at the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden .

Individual tickets: may be obtained via www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.

EA7 Olimpia Milano website: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/ Link to the Version in Italiano: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/press-kit/

For more information:

In Milan contact Claudio Limardi, Director of Marketing & Communication EA7 Olimpia Milano, ufficiostampa@olimpiamilano.com

In NYC contact Art Kenney olimpiamilano18@gmail.com

PALLACANESTRO OLIMPIA MILANO S.S.R.L. piazzale Lotto, 15 (presso Palalido) – 20148 Milano–Italy Tel +39 0270001615 Fax +39 02740608 Capitale Sociale € 3.000.000,00 i.v. – Registro Imprese Milano / Codice Fiscale / Partita IVA 01852920154 – R.E.A. 1406310 Società a socio unico soggetta ad attività di direzione e coordinamento di Giorgio Armani S.p.A.

______________________________________________________________________________

The Italians Are Coming! The Italians Are Coming!

… to Chicago’s United Center on October 1st and to Madison Square Garden on October 4th.

On Thursday, October 1st at 7:00 PM, Italian basketball powerhouse A|X Armani Exchange Olimpia Milano, from Chicago’s sister-city Milan, will face-off against Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv at the United Center in the first leg of the inaugural Euro Classic Tournament. On Sunday, October 4th at 12:30 PM, A|X Armani Exchange Olimpia Milano and Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv will play at Madison Square Garden in the second leg of the inaugural Euro Classic Tournament.

For the very first time, European-style basketball in its purest form will be on display at the in Chicago’s own United Center, when the most successful team in Italian Basketball history A|X Armani Exchange Olimpia Milano hosts the most successful team in Israel, Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv. The Euro Classic Tournament will then entertain fans in The Big Apple when they travel to New York to play the second leg of the inaugural tournament in Madison Square Garden. Olimpia Milano has been an incredible story of success since its founding in 1936, and as it inaugurates its octogenarian anniversary this season, it is launching the Euro Classic, a tournament 80 years in the making. The Euro Classic will be a great opportunity to showcase the high quality playing-style of the best European teams in the birthplace of basketball. It will be a great opportunity for the Italian community and the Hebrew community to attend a game played in an Old World atmosphere with all the fan-thusiasm© and excitement, all on display in the brave new world of an NBA arena. From the entertainment of the fans displaying their team’s colors, everything will be like watching a championship-caliber basketball game back home, but on the biggest stage in the world. What makes the event even more spectacular is that the opposing teams are two of the most successful in International basketball history as demonstrated by their having won a total of 9 European titles combined.

The Story of Olimpia Milano: “Le Scarpette Rosse” (“The Red Shoes”)

Olimpia Milano, which has been owned by fashion icon Giorgio Armani since 2008, is the most successful team in the history of Italian basketball. It has won the Italian championship 26 times, has won the European title 3 times, and has won 8 additional prestigious, international tournaments. Olimpia Milano has always reaffirmed its excellence as the most successful team in Italian basketball history by developing the best Italian players, who take pride in wearing Olimpia Milano’s signature scarpette rosse. This year’s team features team captain, Alessandro Gentile, the youngest M.V.P. in the history of Italian basketball. Olimpia Milano has always been steeped in class, innovation, courage and spirit. With the announcement that successful Head Coach Jasmin Repesa will coach the team for the 2015- 2016 season, Repesa will be reunited with Gentile whom he coached in Treviso as a young prodigy. Olimpia Milano is renowned for excellence and is the most widely-followed team in Italy, with an average of 9,000 fans attending its home games. Every home game is broadcast live on National TV.

The Story of Maccabi Tel Aviv:

Olimpia Milano and the U.S.A.

*Attend the inaugural Euro Classic: A/X Armani Exchange Milano vs. Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv In Chicago: Thursday, Oct. 1st @ 7:00 PM at The United Center

In New York: Sunday, Oct. 4th @ 12:30 PM at the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden

Individual tickets: may be obtained via www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000. EA7 Olimpia Milano website: http://www.olimpiamilano.com Link to the Version in Italiano: http://www.olimpiamilano.com/press-kit/

There is great news released in Milano recently, that EA7 Olimpia Milano will be coming to America in October and will be playing a game in Chicago’s United Center against Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv on Thursday, October 1^st (at 7:00 PM) and then the teams will travel here to NYC to play in Madison Square Garden on Sunday, October 4^th (at 12:30 PM). This event, named the Euro Classic will be historic, because for the first time, two European Clubs will face-off against each other in NBA arenas.

It will be exciting because, it will be a wonderful way for help kick-off Italian Heritage and Culture Month with a visit by the most successful team in the history of Italian Basketball. Right now, EA7 Olimpia Milanois beginning their playoffs for what we hope will be their 27^th National title, which would tie them with the New York Yankees. They are the Yankees of Italian Basketball. Also, their list of prestigious American alumni who have played for them includes Senator Bill Bradley, former Knick Coach Mike D’Antoni, Bob McAdoo, John Gianelli, Albert King and Joe Barry Carroll. Danilo Gallinari who was the Knicks’ number 1 draft choice in 2008 was drafted from Olimpia Milano. Lastly, they have 5 of their alumni in the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame, more than any non-NBA club.

Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv is synonymous with Israeli Basketball and they have dominated the sport in Israel, and have had great success internationally winning The European Championship 6 times. The excellent quality of the teams should provide the attending fans with the flavor and excitement that fans get when attending games in Milano and Tel Aviv.

Attached please find links to two press releases which Olimpia Milano has posted on their website in Italian. The attached press release gives a good summary of the Team and its links with NYC basketball and The Knicks, so there are a lot of connections that the team has with NYC. Since, as I mentioned, October is Italian Heritage and Culture Month, it would be a great kick-off to the month’s events and festivities.

http://www.olimpiamilano.com/euro-classic-olimpia-goes-to-america/

http://www.olimpiamilano.com/leuro-classic-tra-orgoglio-e-storia/

Attached is a brief segment we have just done on our captain, Alessandro Gentile which I would entitle, “Drill, Baby, Drill!” showing the dedication that it takes to be a champion. http://www.olimpiamilano.com/gentile-a-radio-24-favoriti-e-sempre-cosi/ Alessandro has been drafted by The Houston Rockets, and you may remember that Mike D’Antoni who played for Olimpia Milano and then coached the Knicks drafted Danilo Gallinari from Olimpia Milano.

Thursday, October 1 at 7:00 p.m.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RloVuX6Hing

Jamel McLean: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRJTYDK1vv0

Oliver LAfayette: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RloVuX6Hing

Andrea Cinciarini: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcnSj8oG6Ts

Coach Repesa: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqW5iQ2OXpg

Milan Macvan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmNHmIBJTpQ

Daniele Magro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYgQs6N7iMY

Robbie Hummel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ES4CrqS5f8

Andrea Amato: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_IpS4qxic4

Jamel McLean: h ttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRJTYDK1vv0