Messina on young players: Difference is personality. If you need a diaper, you can't be on the court

Ettore Messina, coach and president of Olimpia Milano, spoke about his relationship with young players, taking the opportunity to clear the air

During the first seasonal press conference at the Mediolanum Forum d’Assago, Ettore Messina, coach and president of Olimpia Milano, spoke about his relationship with young players, taking the opportunity to clear the air.

The red-and-white coach recalls the young talent he has launched: “I have a bone to pick. Something that makes me both smile and irate… Coldebella, Binelli, Marconato in the national team’s starting five, Ginobili, Jaric, Nesterovic as the starting center for the Virtus European champions, Smodis and Andersen as starters in Virtus’ Grand Slam, Kurbanov 20′ in the Prague final, Bargnani…”

And here’s his pointed comment: “When people nag me saying I don’t play young talent, I say: I do play young talent, if they’re good.” But it’s not just a matter of talent: “Those that I have in Olimpia today may not be that good, but in my feeling, I believe they can be players who can be on the court with personality.”

Because here’s the difference: “The difference is personality. If you go on the court, make two mistakes, and get scared because the coach yelled, it won’t work. If you need a diaper, you can’t be on the court.”