EP39: How Does a Small Italian Town Produce So Many Professional Players? With Francesco Rossi

In this episode, Alex Sarama is joined by Francesco Rossi, the Youth Director of College Basket in Borgomanero, Italy. They discuss the astounding success of the basketball program in the small town of Borgomanero, which has produced numerous professional players despite its size. Francesco attributes this success to the methodology and game approach used in the program, emphasizing the importance of player development and allowing players to play freely. They delve into the use of small-sided games, such as Cambio and Animals, which have proven to be effective in developing players' decision-making skills and basketball IQ.  Need help with ideas for your next practice? Our FREE youth basketball practice book gives you 21 small-sided games which you can use instantly. Get your free copy here:https://transformingbball.com/21-ssgs-for-your-next-practice Level up your coaching with our Amazon best selling book: https://amzn.to/3vO1Tc7 Access tons more of evidence-based coaching resources: https://transformingbball.com/products/ Key Takeaways: 3:20 - College Basket emphasis on play 8:00 - Players First Princeton Offense 11:30 - Team SSGs: Cambio, Slovenia and Animals  19:00 - Player Development SSG: Cage Dribbling 20:50 - Francesco Rossi's Books     Follow Francesco: Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/fracoachrossi?lang=en Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08ZD8T7GN/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk?fbclid=IwAR1qAkA6RMa9sy2hVyxVw2_9tEOEakKPTNPw2lyKkYI78CFUiCoz99DIWzY   Links: Website: http://transformingbball.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/transformbball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingbasketball/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transformingbasketball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformingbasketball/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transforming.basketball