Writing this blog is Spurs basketball communications coordinator, Mitch Heckart. Mitch began with the Spurs in the PR department in April of 2012. A native Oklahoman, the 28-year-old had never been out of the continental United States prior to the #SpursTrophyTour. Follow his journey this summer with the Larry O’Brien Trophy as it visits 2014 NBA championship teammates around the world in their hometowns.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7
On Sunday, Marco made an appearance at the NBA's 3X3 Tournament in the city of Turin. Teams consisting of three and four players battled it out in various age ranges for an opportunity to play for the European championships in London.
Side note: this event took place at a location called the Piazza Castello. Make sure you check out the #SpursTrophyTour blog photos, I can't imagine a more impressive venue to host this event. Beautiful.
Marco quickly jumped out of the car with Larry to address the crowd (of hundreds) and play a game of knock-out. He also spent over an hour signing autographs and, of course, allowing fans to take selfies with he and Larry.
Also at the event, Marco oversaw and provided commentary for the finals. Additionally, the Spurs champion took time for a meet-and-greet with a team that traveled all the way from the Congo to participate in the event.
Also in attendance on Sunday was a familiar face for Spurs fans, Bruce Bowen. He took part in the same event the day prior.
At the conclusion of the day, Marco parted ways with Larry and rode off to his hometown in Italy. Thanks to Italy, Marco, Elisa and all of Marco’s friends for making this a great trip. As for Larry and I, we are headed back to the Lone Star State for a brief stay. Next up: Jeff Ayres will show off the trophy in Arizona. Stay tuned!
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
Saturday night proved to be a big night in the town of Como, Italy, as Marco attended a gala of government leaders past and present from Europe, which included the former Prime Minister of Italy. Also in attendance was US Senator from Arizona John McCain who personally congratulated Marco at the end of the evening. The setting was beautiful, hosted at a resort along Como Lake.
Marco, along with other Italian athletes that won championships during the past year, were honored during the gala. After a fancy dinner that included lobster and corral sauce, the athletes were each called on stage for questions and a short speech. Of course Larry was a hit for all, as Marco missed the fireworks presentation at the end of the night because too many people desired photos with the pair.
Other athletes honored during the evening included: Rossella Fiamingo (Gold Medal winner at the World Fencing Championships), Gregoria Paltrinieri (Gold Medal winner at the 2014 European Aquatics Championships in Berlin) and Vincenzo Nibali (winner of the 2014 Tour de France). Also on hand for recognition were Special Olympics athletes Crisitan Clemente and Alex Montorfano.
It was indeed a special night for Marco, as he was congratulated by some of the biggest political names Italy has to offer. It was also a great opportunity to share in the spotlight with other big-name athletes from around the area. Definitely a highlight on this trophy tour, which has enjoyed four continents during this incredible summer.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
For the first time on the #SpursTrophyTour, Larry has arrived in Europe to visit Spurs champion Marco Belinelli in his home country of Italy.
Next up on the #SpursTrophyTour, Larry and myself head to Europe (my first time ever) to visit Mr. Marco Belinelli. Can’t wait to see what his home country of Italy has in store for us. In the meantime — I need to brush up on my Italian. Bring on the pasta.Day 1 began with Marco granting an interview with Sky Italia and its lead sports anchor with Larry by his side for the first time. Two other interviews followed before Marco grabbed Larry for a few solo photos for the first time on the trip.Next on the agenda was a visit with Coca Cola employees in the city of Milan. Marco spoke to the group about playing for the Spurs, the influence that Coach Pop has had on his career and his feelings of representing Italy in the NBA Finals (at least that’s what they told me he talked about, I don’t speak Italian!!). Marco took time to answer questions from those attending, as well as take photos and sign autographs.The tour then took us to a local gym where Foot Locker was holding their local 3-Point Contest (ironic, because last season that’s the contest Marco won at NBA All-Star Weekend). Marco and Larry were treated like stars, as the van they approached the gym in was stormed by area kids. Once inside, Marco signed autographs and took photos with the high school-aged group.The night wound down with Marco attending a VIP event at a local establishment. Day 2 is a big one, as Marco will take Larry to a gala in the city of Como that will recognize Italian championship winners during the past year.