After Olimpia Milano’s victory against Crvena Zvezda, Ettore Messina shared his thoughts on the current state of EuroLeague basketball. The Italian coach praised the intensity and passion of the competition but also raised concerns about the increasing physicality of the game. He suggested that it might be time to consider rule changes to improve offensive fluidity.
EuroLeague: A Spectacle, but Increasingly Physical
“I think these games are extremely enjoyable for the fans because there’s always drama and excitement. Every game is a battle. The players fight like college athletes in the U.S.—diving on the floor, giving everything with heart and soul. But I also think the game has become very, very physical. It’s tough for all players to create shots and attack against such aggressive defenses.”
Messina pointed out how modern defensive strategies make it harder to develop efficient offensive plays.
“It’s difficult to find space, to attack, to create good shots against these physical defenses. That’s why it’s hard to compare this era with the past. From the outside, it’s certainly an interesting game to watch, but maybe it’s time to consider rule changes that allow more offensive freedom.”
Possible Rule Adjustments?
One of the proposals Messina highlighted is implementing the defensive three-second rule, similar to what exists in the NBA, to prevent defenses from clogging the paint.
“Some coaches have talked about defensive three seconds. Right now, when you enter the paint, it’s really tough. There are big bodies, a lot of contact, and it’s not easy for referees to manage these situations. In my opinion, officiating has become increasingly difficult.”
Another issue Messina pointed out is how the court size feels smaller compared to the athleticism of today’s players.
“With so many strong, athletic players, the court seems to be shrinking. We need to find ways to create more space so that skilled players can attack more effectively.”
A Call for the Future of European Basketball
Messina’s words go beyond a simple post-game analysis; they serve as a broader reflection on the future of European basketball. With physicality reaching new levels, EuroLeague might need to reconsider its rules to ensure a balance between offense and defense, keeping the game both competitive and entertaining.
This is a debate that will likely continue in the coming months.
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