After a slow start to the season, the 2023-24 EuroLeague Rising Star has hit his stride
Gabriele Procida is finding his way with ALBA Berlin
Trademarks
2 Mins read
Gabriele Procida announced himself to the EuroLeague in the 2022-23 season with open-court dunks among a host of highlight-reel plays. What we're seeing from the 22-year-old forward in this current campaign, however, goes further than some spectacular plays.
The reigning EuroLeague Rising Star, who claimed the award last season despite injuries limiting his playing opportunities, twice improved his EuroLeague career highs in recent weeks: first against Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade in Round 8 and then in the miraculous win over EA7 Emporio Armani Milan.
When ALBA Berlin needed him to answer, Procida picked up the phone.
Making the best out of a difficult situation
"I'm feeling way better than one year ago," he explained to Cesare Milanti of Eurohoops. "Unfortunately, it was a difficult preseason. I twisted the same ankle twice. Staying out and missing the first games of the season wasn't easy" he recalled about opening the 2024-25 campaign at less than 100 percent.
"I wasn't ready, and I immediately did my all both on the court and in practice. I wasn't feeling at ease during the four or five months when I stayed out", he said, referring to the injury problems he suffered through last year when he could play in only 25 games out of 34 EuroLeague regular-season games.
"But now I take everything that comes to me. Not having the full squad available gives me even more playing time and a lot of occasions where I can risk a little bit more. I'm feeling great confidence-wise, I love getting my responsibilities on offense too", Procida added.
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