Hubbry Logo
Olimpia MilanoOlimpia MilanoMain
Open search
Olimpia Milano
Community hub
Olimpia Milano
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Olimpia Milano
Olimpia Milano
from Wikipedia

Pallacanestro Olimpia Milano, commonly known as Olimpia Milano or as EA7 Emporio Armani Milan after its title sponsor,[2] is an LBA Italian professional basketball team, based in Milan, Italy. Its colors are white and red, and the team is sometimes referred as "Scarpette Rosse" (Little Red Shoes) because team officials imported red Converse All-Star shoes for players from the United States. The tag line stuck, and the nickname is still used by many fans today.

Key Information

As per custom in the Italian league, sponsorship has kept the team name changing frequently. From 1930 until 1955, it was called Borletti Milano. From 1956 to 1973, it was renamed Simmenthal. Other famous sponsorship names were Billy, Simac, Tracer, and Philips, in the 1980s. For past club sponsorship names, see the list below.

Olimpia is the most successful basketball club in Italy and one of the most successful in Europe, having won 31 Italian League Championships, 8 Italian National Cups, 5 Italian Super Cups, 3 EuroLeague, 1 FIBA Intercontinental Cup, 3 FIBA Saporta Cups, 2 FIBA Korać Cups and many junior titles.

In 2016, the club was included in the Italian Basketball Hall of Fame.

History

[edit]

The birth and the Borletti era (1930–1955)

[edit]

The birth of Pallacanestro Olimpia Milano is traditionally dated 1936, year of the first Italian League Championship title won by the team. Actually it was founded 6 years earlier (in 1930) as "Dopolavoro Borletti" by Fratelli Borletti managers.[3] Borletti team won 4 consecutive Italian League Championships from 1936 to 1939.

In 1947, Milan businessman Adolfo Bogoncelli merged Pallacanestro Como and Borletti to form a new society,[4] commonly known as "Borolimpia". "Borletti" brand was the main sponsor of the team, becoming the first sponsor in the history of Italian sport.[5]

In 1955, after 9 Italian League Championships, Borletti brand leaves Olimpia Milano jersey.

The Simmenthal era (1956–1973)

[edit]

The team regularly won the Italian League Championship in the 1950s and the 1960s, with players including Gabriele Vianello, Sandro Riminucci, Gianfranco Pieri, and Bill Bradley. In 1966, Olimpia won its first FIBA European Champions Cup.

In the 1970s, three teams were fighting across Europe for supremacy: Olimpia Milano, Ignis Varese, and Real Madrid. Pallacanestro Varese and Olimpia Milano were arch-rivals, as the two cities are 25 miles (40 km) apart. While Milano was a frequent Italian League champion, they were unable to win again the prestigious FIBA European Champions Cup. Late in the 1970s, the quality of the club declined, but Olimpia Milano still managed to win a FIBA Cup Winners' Cup.

In 1973, Simmenthal brand leaves Olimpia jersey after 17 years and 10 Italian League Championships.

1974–2007

[edit]

In the 1970s through the 1980s, the team acquired several notable players, including the Boselli twins (Franco and Dino), Mike Sylvester, Chas Menatti, Dino Meneghin, Mike D'Antoni, John Gianelli, Roberto Premier. Bob McAdoo, Joe Barry Carroll, Russ Schoene, Antoine Carr, and Mike Brown. American head coach Dan Peterson led the team back to prominence.

In the 1980s, the team was sold to the Gabetti family. After this, they qualified for nine Serie A championships finals, winning five, with the 1987 team winning the Serie A title, the 1986–87 FIBA European Champions Cup (won also in 1988: both finals were won against Maccabi Tel Aviv), the Italian Cup and the 1987 FIBA Club World Cup. This gave the club the coveted "Triple Crown" and the even rarer "Quadruple Crown".

Led by point guard Sasha Djordjević, the team won another FIBA Korać Cup in 1993. Bepi Stefanel purchased the team franchise in 1994, and signed-up notable European players like Dejan Bodiroga, Gregor Fučka, Sandro De Pol, and Nando Gentile. In 1996, the team won the Italian Cup and its 25th Italian National Championship, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the club.

Team management was inconsistent, as ownership groups from 1998 to 2004. Players of the team included Warren Kidd, Hugo Sconochini, Claudio Coldebella and Petar Naumoski. In 2005, owner Corbelli, which bought the club in 2002, from Sergio Tacchini, was flanked by Adriano Galliani (managing director of Italian Football club A.C. Milan), Massimo Moratti (President of rival club Internazionale), NBA star Kobe Bryant, and stylist Giorgio Armani, as sponsor with the Armani Jeans brand. After difficult years, led by coach Lino Lardo, Olimpia reached the national championship Finals, finally being beaten by Climamio Bologna.

On January 25, 2006, in the midst of a disappointing season in the EuroLeague and domestically, Djordjevic was named as the team's new coach. He left as coach after the 2006–07 season, but not before securing Olimpia a berth in the 2007–08 Euroleague.

2008–present

[edit]

In 2008, Giorgio Armani bought the team from Giorgio Corbelli, standing as the only owner, entirely changing the management structure, naming Livio Proli as president, and Lucio Zanca as general manager. Piero Bucchi was chosen to coach the new team, leading Olimpia twice to second place in LEGA Basket, being defeated by Montepaschi Siena in both cases.

Alessandro Gentile

In January 2011, after 23 years away from coaching, Dan Peterson came back from retirement at the request of team owner Giorgio Armani to replace Piero Bucchi, who was fired in mid-season.[6] Peterson was hired on an interim basis and agreed to coach only the remainder of the season, in which he guided the team to the semi-finals. On June 9, Olimpia Milano announced Sergio Scariolo as new head coach for the 2011–12 season. The first player signed for the 2011–12 season was Omar Cook, an American-born play maker, who had played the previous season with Power Electronics Valencia. Owing to the NBA lockout, Danilo Gallinari went back to his alma mater, playing 15 games (8 in the Italian League, 7 in EuroLeague): he left the team in December. Sergio Scariolo was replaced by Luca Banchi at the beginning of the 2013–14 season, and the team brought from Montepaschi Siena: David Moss, Kristjan Kangur, and Daniel Hackett.

The team reached the quarterfinals of EuroLeague, 16 years after its last appearance, but the team lost against the eventual league champions, Maccabi Tel Aviv. The team finished in the 1st position the LEGA Basket regular season, and in the 7th game of the playoff's finals, Olimpia won its 26th Italian League championship title, its first after 18 years. Alessandro Gentile, the captain of Olimpia, was named MVP of the finals.

On June 29, 2017, Simone Pianigiani was hired as the new head coach and on June 15, 2018, Milano went to win his 28th title by beating Dolomiti Energia Trento in game 6 of the 2018 LBA Finals.[7]

On June 11, 2019, legend Ettore Messina signed a deal as the new head coach of the club and president of all basketball operations for the following three seasons.[8]

On May 4, 2021, the club reached the Euroleague Final Four after 29 years (1992 Final Four).[9]

Logos

[edit]

Arenas

[edit]
Mediolanum Forum during 2014 Euroleague Final Four final match
Arena Photo Capacity Years Notes
Court of Via Costanza
1930–1948
Outdoor court of the OND Borletti factory
Palazzo dello Sport della Fiera
c. 18,000
1948-1960
The first sports palace of Milan and the biggest in Europe at that time
PalaLido
c. 10,000 (3,500)*
1960–1980 (1985)*
Indoor arena specifically designed for basketball *(temporarily used in 1985-86 season)
Palasport di San Siro
c. 15,000
1980–1985
On January 17, 1985, a large snowfall collapsed the roof and the arena was closed
PalaTrussardi
10,045
1986–1990
Also known as "PalaVobis", "Mazda Palace" and "PalaSharp"
Unipol Forum
12,700
1990–present
Originally named "the Forum of Assago", it was previously known as "FilaForum", "DatchForum" and "Mediolanum Forum".

Secondary Arenas

[edit]
Arena Photo Capacity Years Notes
PalaLido
3,800
1990–2011
Used when Mediolanum Forum was unavailable
PalaDesio
6,700
2011–2019
In 2011, the old PalaLido was destroyed and rebuilt. PalaDesio was used as a secondary arena during the construction of the new arena
Allianz Cloud
5,347
2019–present
Built in place of the old PalaLido, it is used when Mediolanum Forum is unavailable

Olimpia Milano used the OND Borletti outdoor court of Via Costanza for almost 20 years. In the mid-1940s, they moved to the Palazzo dello Sport della Fiera, which had a seating capacity of 18,000 people, and was then the largest indoor sports arena in Europe, and second only to the Madison Square Garden in New York City. In 1960, the Palazzo dello Sport della Fiera was abandoned, and Olimpia moved into the original structure of the PalaLido, which then had a smaller seating capacity of 3,500, but because of lack of security measures at the time, often was filled with up to 10,000 people.

At the end of the 1970s, Olimpia moved into the newly built Palasport di San Siro, a multi-purpose facility built next to the Meazza Stadium, that was able to hold about 15,000 spectators. In 1985, the roof of the Palasport di San Siro collapsed and Olimpia returned to PalaLido for a season, waiting for the construction of a provisional arena. In 1986, they moved into the recently built 10,045 seat PalaTrussardi, where they played through the early 1990s.

The club then moved into its current home arena, the Mediolanum Forum, which has a seating capacity of 12,700.[10] The club has also played some home games at the 6,700 seat PalaDesio. Recently, the club considered moving back to the newly rebuilt and modernized PalaLido (named Allianz Cloud), after it was remodeled, and had its seating capacity expanded. However, the club ultimately decided to continue using the Mediolanum Forum as its home arena, due to its much larger seating capacity, as compared to the new Allianz Cloud. However, the new arena is used when Mediolanum Forum is unavailable.

Honours

[edit]

Domestic competitions

[edit]
Winners (31): 1935–36, 1936–37, 1937–38, 1938–39, 1949–50, 1950–51, 1951–52, 1952–53, 1953–54, 1956–57, 1957–58, 1958–59, 1959–60, 1961–62, 1962–63, 1964–65, 1965–66, 1966–67, 1971–72, 1981–82, 1984–85, 1985–86, 1986–87, 1988–89, 1995–96, 2013–14, 2015–16, 2017–18, 2021–22, 2022–23, 2023–24
Runners-up (18): 1934, 1940–41, 1955–56, 1963–64, 1968–69, 1969–70, 1970–71, 1972–73, 1973–74, 1978–79, 1982–83, 1983–84, 1987–88, 1990–91, 2004–05, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2011–12, 2020–21
Winners (8): 1971–72, 1985–86, 1986–87, 1995–96, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2020–21, 2021–22
Runners-up (3): 1969–70, 2014–15, 2023–24
Winners (6): 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2024, 2025
Runners-up (4): 1996, 2014, 2015, 2021

European competitions

[edit]
Winners (3): 1965–66, 1986–87, 1987–88
Runners-up (2): 1966–67, 1982–83
Semifinalists (3): 1963–64, 1967–68, 1972–73, 1985–86
3rd place (2): 1991–92, 2020–21
Final Four (5): 1966, 1967, 1988, 1992, 2021
Winners (3): 1970–71, 1971–72, 1975–76
Runners-up (2): 1983–84, 1997–98
Semifinalists (1): 1976–77
Winners (2): 1984–85, 1992–93
Runners-up (2): 1994–95, 1995–96
Semifinalists (3): 1977–78, 1988–89, 1993–94
3rd place (2): 1985, 1989
4th place (2): 1986, 1987
Winners (1): 1966
Runners-up (1): 1953
  • European Tournament (San Remo) (defunct)
Winners (2): 1952, 1954 [11]

Worldwide competitions

[edit]
Winners (1): 1987
3rd place (2): 1967, 1968
3rd place (2): 1987, 1989

Unofficial

[edit]
Winners (1): 1986–87
Winners (1): 1971–72

Other Competitions

[edit]
  • Castellanza, Italy Invitational Game
Winners (1): 2007
  • Memoriale di Tulio Rochlitzer
Winners (1): 2007
  • Torneo Caorle
Winners (2): 2007, 2011
  • Reggio Emilia, Italy Invitational Game
Winners (1): 2008
  • Torneo Lombardia
Winners (2): 2009, 2016
  • Torneo Castelleto Ticino
Winners (3): 2009, 2018, 2019
  • Verona, Italy Invitational Game
Winners (1): 2011
  • Trofeo de Ejea de los Caballeros
Winners (1): 2011
  • Belgrade, Serbia Invitational Game
Winners (1): 2014
  • Torneo del Circuito della Valtellina
Winners (1): 2014
  • Trofeo Memorial Gianni Brusinelli
Winners (1): 2016
  • Torneo Lovari
Winners (1): 2017
  • Torneo Lucca
Winners (1): 2019
  • Milan, Italy Invitational Game
Winners (1): 2019

Players

[edit]

Current roster

[edit]
Olimpia Milano roster
Players Coaches
Pos. No. Nat. Name Ht. Wt. Age
PG 1 Italy United States Mannion, Nico 1.90 m (6 ft 3 in) 86 kg (190 lb) 24 – (2001-03-14)14 March 2001
PG 2 United States Spain Brown, Lorenzo 1.96 m (6 ft 5 in) 86 kg (190 lb) 35 – (1990-08-26)26 August 1990
PG 3 United Kingdom Ellis, Quinn 1.96 m (6 ft 5 in) 92 kg (203 lb) 22 – (2003-04-01)1 April 2003
F/C 6 United States Booker, Devin 2.06 m (6 ft 9 in) 113 kg (249 lb) 34 – (1991-02-28)28 February 1991
SG 7 Italy Tonut, Stefano 1.94 m (6 ft 4 in) 100 kg (220 lb) 32 – (1993-11-07)7 November 1993
G/F 10 Argentina Italy Bolmaro, Leandro 1.98 m (6 ft 6 in) 95 kg (209 lb) 25 – (2000-09-11)11 September 2000
SG 12 United States Brooks, Armoni 1.91 m (6 ft 3 in) 88 kg (194 lb) 27 – (1998-06-05)5 June 1998
PF 16 United States Azerbaijan LeDay, Zach 2.02 m (6 ft 8 in) 102 kg (225 lb) 31 – (1994-05-30)30 May 1994
F 17 Italy Ricci, Giampaolo (C) 2.02 m (6 ft 8 in) 100 kg (220 lb) 34 – (1991-09-27)27 September 1991
G 21 Italy Flaccadori, Diego 1.95 m (6 ft 5 in) 80 kg (176 lb) 29 – (1996-04-05)5 April 1996
G/F 23 Serbia Gudurić, Marko 1.98 m (6 ft 6 in) 91 kg (201 lb) 30 – (1995-03-08)8 March 1995
C 25 Senegal Diop, Ousmane 2.04 m (6 ft 8 in) 100 kg (220 lb) 25 – (2000-02-19)19 February 2000
SF 31 United States Denmark Shields, Shavon 2.01 m (6 ft 7 in) 100 kg (220 lb) 31 – (1994-06-05)5 June 1994
C 32 United States Slovenia Nebo, Josh 2.06 m (6 ft 9 in) 111 kg (245 lb) 28 – (1997-07-17)17 July 1997
C 35 Italy Totè, Leonardo 2.11 m (6 ft 11 in) 107 kg (236 lb) 28 – (1997-07-08)8 July 1997
C 42 United States Armenia Dunston, Bryant 2.03 m (6 ft 8 in) 107 kg (236 lb) 39 – (1986-05-28)28 May 1986
F/C 77 United States Sestina, Nate 2.06 m (6 ft 9 in) 106 kg (234 lb) 28 – (1997-05-12)12 May 1997
Head coach
Assistant coach(es)

Legend
  • (C) Team captain
  • Injured Injured

Updated: July 15, 2025

Note: Flags indicate national team eligibility at FIBA-sanctioned events. Players may hold other non-FIBA nationalities not displayed.

Depth chart

[edit]
Pos. Starting 5 Bench 1 Bench 2 Bench 3 Inactive
C Devin Booker Bryant Dunston Ousmane Diop Josh Nebo Injured
PF Zach Leday Nate Sestina Giampaolo Ricci Leonardo Totè
SF Shavon Shields Marko Gudurić
SG Armoni Brooks Stefano Tonut Diego Flaccadori
PG Leandro Bolmaro Nico Mannion Quinn Ellis Lorenzo Brown Injured

(colors: Italian or homegrown players; foreign players; young players)

Retired numbers

[edit]
Olimpia Milano retired numbers
No Nat. Player Position Tenure Date retired Ref.
8 United StatesItaly Mike D'Antoni PG 1977–1990 2015 [12]
11 Italy Dino Meneghin C 1980–1990
1993-1994
2019 [13][14][15]
18 United States Art Kenney PF/C 1970–1973 2013 [16]
36 United States Dan Peterson Coach 1979-1987
2011
2023 [6]

Season by season

[edit]
Season Tier League Pos. Playoffs Cup European competitions Coach Main Sponsor
1935-36 1 Serie A 1st Giannino Valli Borletti
1936-37 1 Serie A 1st Giannino Valli Borletti
1937-38 1 Serie A 1st Giannino Valli Borletti
1938-39 1 Serie A 1st Giannino Valli Borletti
1939-40 1 Serie A 7th Giannino Valli Borletti
1940-41 1 Serie A 2nd Giannino Valli Borletti
1941-42 1 Serie A 5th Giannino Valli Borletti
1942-43 1 Serie A 5th Giannino Valli Borletti
1945-46 1 Serie A 2nd round Borletti
1946-47 1 Serie A 1st round Umberto Fedeli Borletti
1947-48 1 Serie A 2nd Umberto Fedeli Borletti
1948-49 1 Serie A 3rd Cesare Rubini Borletti
1949-50 1 Serie A 1st Cesare Rubini Borletti
1950-51 1 Serie A 1st Cesare Rubini Borletti
1951-52 1 Serie A 1st Cesare Rubini Borletti
1952-53 1 Serie A 1st Cesare Rubini Borletti
1953-54 1 Elette 1st Cesare Rubini Borletti
1954-55 1 Elette 3rd Cesare Rubini Borletti
1955-56 1 Elette 2nd Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1956-57 1 Elette 1st Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1957-58 1 Elette 1st 1 European Champions Cup Quarterfinalist Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1958-59 1 Elette 1st Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1959-60 1 Elette 1st Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1960-61 1 Elette 3rd Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1961-62 1 Elette 1st Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1962-63 1 Elette 1st 1 European Champions Cup Quarterfinalist Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1963-64 1 Elette 2nd 1 European Champions Cup Semifinalist Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1964-65 1 Elette 1st Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1965-66 1 Serie A 1st 1 European Champions Cup Champion Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1966-67 1 Serie A 1st 1 European Champions Cup Runner-up Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1967-68 1 Serie A 4th 1 European Champions Cup Semifinalist Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1968-69 1 Serie A 2nd Eight-finalist Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1969-70 1 Serie A 2nd Runner-up Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1970-71 1 Serie A 1st Runner-up 3rd 2 European Cup Winners' Cup Champion Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1971-72 1 Serie A 1st Champion 2 European Cup Winners' Cup Champion Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1972-73 1 Serie A 1st Runner-up Quarterfinalist 1 European Champions Cup Semifinalist Cesare Rubini Simmenthal
1973-74 1 Serie A 2nd Quarterfinalist 3 Korać Cup R12 Cesare Rubini Innocenti
1974-75 1 Serie A1 3rd 3rd (second phase) 3 Korać Cup R16 Filippo Faina Innocenti
1975-76 1 Serie A1 11th Relegated to Serie A2 2 European Cup Winners' Cup Champion Filippo Faina Cinzano
1976-77 2 Serie A2 1st 4th (second phase) 2 European Cup Winners' Cup Semifinalist Filippo Faina Cinzano
1977-78 1 Serie A1 6th 4th (second phase) 3 Korać Cup Semifinalist Filippo Faina Cinzano
1978-79 1 Serie A1 5th Runner-up Dan Peterson Billy
1979-80 1 Serie A1 1st Semifinalist Dan Peterson Billy
1980-81 1 Serie A1 2nd Semifinalist Dan Peterson Billy
1981-82 1 Serie A1 3rd Champion Dan Peterson Billy
1982-83 1 Serie A1 2nd Runner-up 1 European Champions Cup Runner-up Dan Peterson Billy
1983-84 1 Serie A1 1st Runner-up Semifinalist 2 Saporta Cup Runner-up Dan Peterson Simac
1984-85 1 Serie A1 2nd Champion Quarterfinalist 3 Korać Cup Champion Dan Peterson Simac
1985-86 1 Serie A1 1st Champion Champion 1 European Champions Cup Semifinalist Dan Peterson Simac
1986-87 1 Serie A1 4th Champion Champion 1 European Champions Cup Champion Dan Peterson Tracer
1987-88 1 Serie A1 2nd Runner-up Eighth-finalist 1 European Champions Cup Champion Franco Casalini Tracer
1988-89 1 Serie A1 5th Champion Semifinalist 3 Korać Cup Semifinalist Franco Casalini Philips
1989-90 1 Serie A1 10th Eighth-finalist RS 1 European Champions Cup Quarterfinalist Franco Casalini Philips
1990-91 1 Serie A1 1st Runner-up Runner-up Mike D'Antoni Philips
1991-92 1 Serie A1 3rd Quarterfinalist Quarterfinalist 1 European League 3rd Mike D'Antoni Philips
1992-93 1 Serie A1 2nd Quarterfinalist Quarterfinalist 3 Korać Cup Champion Mike D'Antoni Philips
1993-94 1 Serie A1 5th Quarterfinalist Eighth-finalist 3 Korać Cup Semifinalist Mike D'Antoni Recoaro
1994-95 1 Serie A1 4th Semifinalist Semifinalist 3 Korać Cup Runner-up Bogdan Tanjević Stefanel
1995-96 1 Serie A1 5th Champion Champion 3 Korać Cup Runner-up Bogdan Tanjević Stefanel
1996-97 1 Serie A1 4th Semifinalist 3rd 1 EuroLeague Quarterfinalist Franco Marcelletti Stefanel
1997-98 1 Serie A1 6th Eighth-finalist Semifinalist 2 EuroCup Runner-up Franco Marcelletti Stefanel
1998-99 1 Serie A1 5th Quarterfinalist Eighth-finalist 2 Saporta Cup R32 Marco Crespi Sony
1999-00 1 Serie A1 13th Quarterfinalist 2 Saporta Cup R16 Marco Crespi Adecco
2000-01 1 Serie A1 15th Valerio Bianchini Adecco
2001–02 1 Serie A 17th Guido Saibene Adecco
2002–03 1 Serie A 5th Round of 16 Quarterfinalist Attilio Caja Pippo
2003–04 1 Serie A 10th 2 ULEB Cup T16 Attilio Caja Breil
2004–05 1 Serie A 4th Runner-up Quarterfinalist Lino Lardo Armani Jeans
2005–06 1 Serie A 7th Quarterfinalist Quarterfinalist 1 Euroleague RS Lino Lardo Armani Jeans
2006–07 1 Serie A 2nd Semifinalist Semifinalist Aleksandar Đorđević Armani Jeans
2007–08 1 Serie A 5th Semifinalist 1 Euroleague RS Zare Markovski Armani Jeans
2008–09 1 Serie A 6th Runner-up 1 Euroleague T16 Piero Bucchi Armani Jeans
2009–10 1 Serie A 3rd Runner-up Quarterfinalist 1 Euroleague RS Piero Bucchi Armani Jeans
2010–11 1 Serie A 3rd Semifinalist Quarterfinalist 1 Euroleague RS Piero Bucchi / Dan Peterson Armani Jeans
2011–12 1 Serie A 2nd Runner-up Semifinalist 1 Euroleague T16 Sergio Scariolo EA7 Emporio Armani
2012–13 1 Serie A 4th Quarterfinalist Quarterfinalist 1 Euroleague RS Sergio Scariolo EA7 Emporio Armani
2013–14 1 Serie A 1st Champion Quarterfinalist 1 Euroleague QF Luca Banchi EA7 Emporio Armani
2014–15 1 Serie A 1st Semifinalist Runner-up 1 Euroleague T16 Luca Banchi EA7 Emporio Armani
2015–16 1 Serie A 1st Champion Champion 1 Euroleague RS Jasmin Repeša EA7 Emporio Armani
2016–17 1 Serie A 1st Semifinalist Champion 1 EuroLeague 16th Jasmin Repeša EA7 Emporio Armani
2017–18 1 Serie A 2nd Champion Quarterfinalist 1 EuroLeague 15th Simone Pianigiani EA7 Emporio Armani
2018–19 1 Serie A 1st Semifinalist Quarterfinalist 1 EuroLeague 12th Simone Pianigiani AX Armani Exchange
2019–20 1 Serie A 4th[a] Semifinalist 1 EuroLeague Ettore Messina AX Armani Exchange
2020–21 1 Serie A 1st Runner-up Champion 1 EuroLeague 3rd Ettore Messina AX Armani Exchange
2021–22 1 Serie A 2nd Champion Champion 1 EuroLeague QF Ettore Messina AX Armani Exchange
2022–23 1 Serie A 1st Champion Quarterfinalist 1 EuroLeague 12th Ettore Messina EA7 Emporio Armani
2023–24 1 Serie A 2nd Champion Runner-up 1 EuroLeague 12th Ettore Messina EA7 Emporio Armani
2024–25 1 Serie A 5th Semifinalist Runner-up 1 EuroLeague 11th Ettore Messina EA7 Emporio Armani

Top performances in European & Worldwide competitions

[edit]
Season Achievement Notes
EuroLeague
1957–58 Quarter-finals eliminated by Honvéd, 80–72 (W) in Milan and 85–95 (L) in Budapest
1962–63 Quarter-finals eliminated by Dinamo Tbilisi, 70–65 (W) in Tbilisi and 68–74 (L) in Milan
1963–64 Semi-finals eliminated by Real Madrid, 82–77 (W) in Milan and 78–101 (L) in Madrid
1965–66 Champions defeated CSKA Moscow 68–57 in the semi-final, defeated Slavia VŠ Praha 77–72 in the final of the Final Four in Bologna / Milan
1966–67 Final defeated Slavia VŠ Praha 103–97 in the semi-final, lost to Real Madrid 83–91 in the final (Madrid)
1967–68 Semi-finals eliminated by Spartak ZJŠ Brno, 64–63 (W) in Milan, 86–103 (L) in Brno
1972–73 Semi-finals eliminated by Ignis Varese, 72–97 (L) in Milan, 100–115 (L) in Varese
1982–83 Final lost to Ford Cantù, 68–69 in the final (Grenoble)
1985–86 Semi-final group stage 3rd place in a group with Cibona, Žalgiris, Real Madrid, Maccabi Tel Aviv and Limoges CSP
1986–87 Champions defeated Maccabi Tel Aviv, 71–69 in the final of European Champions Cup in Lausanne
1987–88 Champions defeated Aris 87–82 in the semi-final, defeated Maccabi Tel Aviv 90–84 in the final of the Final Four in Ghent
1989–90 Quarter-finals 5th place in a group with FC Barcelona, Jugoplastika, Limoges CSP, Aris, Maccabi Tel Aviv, Commodore Den Helder and Lech Poznań
1991–92 Final Four 3rd place in Istanbul, lost to Partizan 75–82 in the semi-final, defeated Estudiantes Caja Postal 99–81 in the 3rd place game
1996–97 Quarter-finals eliminated 2–1 by Smelt Olimpija, 94–90 (W) in Milan, 69–73 (L) in Ljubljana, 61–77 (L) in Milan
2013–14 Quarter-finals eliminated 3–1 by Maccabi Tel Aviv, 99–101 (L) and 91–77 (W) in Milan, 63–75 (L) and 66–86 (L) in Tel Aviv
2020–21 Final Four 3rd place in Cologne, lost to FC Barcelona 82–84 in the semi-final, defeated CSKA Moscow 83–73 in the 3rd place game
2021–22 Quarter-finals eliminated 3–1 by Anadolu Efes, 48–64 (L) and 73–66 (W) in Milan, 65–77 (L) and 70–75 (L) in Istanbul
FIBA Saporta Cup
1970–71 Champions defeated Spartak Leningrad 56–66 (L) in Leningrad and 71–52 (W) in Milan in the double final of FIBA European Cup Winners' Cup
1971–72 Champions defeated Crvena zvezda 74–70 in the final of FIBA European Cup Winners' Cup in Thessaloniki
1975–76 Champions defeated ASPO Tours 88–83 in the final of FIBA European Cup Winners' Cup in Turin
1976–77 Semi-finals eliminated by Forst Cantù, 78–101 (L) in Cantù and 98–95 (W) in Milan
1983–84 Final lost to Real Madrid 81–82 in the final (Ostend)
1997–98 Final lost to Žalgiris 67–82 in the final (Belgrade)
FIBA Korać Cup
1977–78 Semi-finals eliminated by Bosna, 79–76 (W) in Milan and 81–101 (L) in Sarajevo
1984–85 Champions defeated Ciaocrem Varese, 91–78 in the final of FIBA Korać Cup in Brussels
1988–89 Semi-finals eliminated by Wiwa Vismara Cantù, 81–95 (L) in Cantù and 70–65 (W) in Milan
1992–93 Champions defeated Virtus Roma, 95–90 (W) in Rome and 106–91 (W) in Milan in the double finals of FIBA Korać Cup
1993–94 Semi-finals eliminated by Stefanel Trieste, 79–96 (L) in Trieste and 103–96 (W) in Milan
1994–95 Final lost to Alba Berlin, 87–87 (D) in Milan and 79–85 (L) in Berlin
1995–96 Final lost to Efes Pilsen, 68–76 (L) in Istanbul and 77–70 (W) in Milan
EuroCup Basketball
2015–16 Quarter-finals eliminated by Dolomiti Energia Trento, 73–83 (L) in Trento and 79–92 (L) in Milan
FIBA Intercontinental Cup
1967 3rd place 3rd place in Rome, lost to Ignis Varese 70–79 in the semi-final, defeated Corinthians 90–89 in the 3rd place game
1968 3rd place 3rd place in Philadelphia, lost to Real Madrid 84–93 in the semi-final, defeated Botafogo 82–54 in the 3rd place game
1983 5th place 5th place with a 2–3 record in a league tournament in Buenos Aires
1987 Champions defeated FC Barcelona 100–84 in the final of FIBA Club World Cup in Milan
McDonald's Championship
1987 3rd place 3rd place in a three teams Tournament in Milwaukee with Milwaukee Bucks and Soviet Union
1989 3rd place 3rd place in Rome, lost to Jugoplastika 97–102 in the semi-final, defeated FC Barcelona 136–104 in the 3rd place game

Matches against NBA teams

[edit]
23 October 1987
United States Milwaukee Bucks 123–111 Italy Tracer Milano
3 October 2010
United States New York Knicks 125–113 Italy Armani Jeans Milano
7 October 2012
United States Boston Celtics 105–75 Italy EA7 Emporio Armani Milano
6 October 2015
United States Boston Celtics 124–91 Italy EA7 Emporio Armani Milano

Sponsorship names

[edit]
Logo of Armani Jeans Milano (2004–2011)

Through the years, due to sponsorship deals, it has been also known as:[17]

Notable players

[edit]

Note: Flags indicate national team eligibility at FIBA-sanctioned events. Players may hold other non-FIBA nationalities not displayed.

Criteria

To appear in this section a player must have either:

  • Set a club record or won an individual award while at the club
  • Played at least one official international match for their national team at any time
  • Played at least one official NBA match at any time.

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Pallacanestro Olimpia Milano, commonly known as Olimpia Milano or Emporio Armani Milano, is a professional basketball club based in , , that competes in the (LBA), the top tier of Italian basketball, and the , Europe's premier club competition. Founded in 1936 as part of the Borletti sports group, the club adopted the Olimpia name in 1946 and has since become Italy's most successful basketball team, boasting 31 LBA championships (scudetti), including three consecutive titles from 2022 to 2024, along with 8 Italian Cups and 6 trophies. On the European stage, Olimpia has secured three titles (1966, 1987, and 1988), three FIBA Saporta Cups (1971, 1972, and 1976), two Korac Cups (1985 and 1993), and one (1990), establishing itself as one of the continent's most storied franchises. The club's early dominance came in the post-World War II era, winning seven LBA titles during the 1950s, including five consecutive from 1950 to 1954, powered by legends like Cesare Rubini and Sandro Gamba, both later inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. After a period of rebuilding, Olimpia experienced a golden age in the under coaches and Franco Casalini, capturing back-to-back crowns with stars such as , Dino Meneghin, and Roberto Brunamonti. Since 2008, under the ownership of the Group—which has sponsored the team since 2004—the club has revitalized its fortunes, adding six LBA titles, four Italian Cups, and six wins, while consistently reaching playoffs and Final Fours, most recently in 2023. Olimpia plays its home games at the Mediolanum Forum in , a 12,700-seat arena, and maintains a renowned youth academy that has produced talents like and . With a legacy of excellence spanning nearly nine decades, the club embodies Milan's sporting prestige and continues to compete at the highest levels of European basketball.

History

Early years and Borletti era (1930–1955)

Olimpia Milano's basketball section was founded in 1936 as part of the Dopolavoro Borletti, a multi-sport recreational club established by the Fratelli Borletti company, an appliance manufacturer, to promote employee welfare in the aftermath of World War I. The initiative reflected the era's emphasis on corporate-sponsored sports as a means of social cohesion and physical fitness, with basketball introduced amid Italy's growing interest in the sport during the 1920s and 1930s amateur leagues. In 1936, the club was reorganized and renamed Gruppo Sportivo Olimpia Milano, marking its formal entry into competitive basketball under the Borletti sponsorship, which provided financial backing and facilities, positioning it as one of Italy's pioneering professionally supported teams. The early years were marked by rapid success in the Italian championship, with Olimpia securing four consecutive titles from 1936 to 1939, establishing a dominant presence in the pre-war amateur era dominated by regional rivalries. These victories, achieved under the Borletti banner, highlighted the club's organizational strength and attracted talent from across , laying the groundwork for its identity as a Milanese powerhouse. However, disrupted operations profoundly; the national league was suspended from 1940 to 1945, leading to the temporary disbandment of the team amid wartime hardships, including player and logistical challenges in occupied . Post-war resumption in 1946 saw a gradual rebuild, with the club re-entering organized play and joining the newly formed professional league in the 1948–49 season, a pivotal step toward modernizing Italian . Under continued Borletti sponsorship, Olimpia professionalized further in the early , benefiting from the family's investment in and talent acquisition, which included signing key players like Sergio Stefanini in 1949 to bolster scoring. The era yielded five additional Italian championships in 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, and 1954, solidifying the club's domestic supremacy and contributing to the sport's growth in . Cesare Rubini, hired as a player in 1948, emerged as a foundational figure, bringing tactical expertise from his national team experience, while young talent Sandro Gamba debuted in 1945 and quickly became a star guard, renowned for his playmaking and defensive skills during the title-winning campaigns. This period under Borletti not only professionalized the club but also set the stage for its transition to new sponsorship in 1956.

Simmenthal era (1956–1973)

In 1956, the Simmenthal meat processing company acquired sponsorship rights for Olimpia Milano, marking a significant shift that injected substantial financial resources into the club following its successful Borletti era. This investment enabled the recruitment of elite domestic and international talent, including American players like , who joined in 1965, and facilitated upgrades to training facilities and travel logistics, such as private jets for European competitions. Under this backing, the team adopted the name Simmenthal Milano and established itself as Italy's premier power, blending Italian precision with American athleticism to dominate the sport. The Simmenthal era was defined by unparalleled domestic success, with the club securing 10 Italian League championships (Scudetti) between and , including streaks of four consecutive titles from to 1960, two from 1962 to 1963, and four from 1965 to 1968. Cesare Rubini, who served as from to , was the architect of this dominance, amassing 10 league titles during his tenure and instilling a disciplined, high-tempo style that emphasized fast-break transitions to exploit defensive transitions. Key players like forward Gianmaria Cioni, guard Sandro Gamba (who later transitioned to coaching), and center Gianfranco Pieri formed the core of these squads, with Gamba's tactical acumen as an assistant complementing Rubini's motivational leadership. The team also captured its first Italian Cup in , further solidifying its national supremacy. On the European stage, Simmenthal Milano achieved pioneering breakthroughs, becoming the first Italian club to win the European Champions Cup in by defeating Slavia VŠ Praha 77-72 in the final at Milan's Palasport di , a victory highlighted by Bradley's 14 points and Pieri's defensive contributions. The following year, they reached the final again but fell to Real 83-91, showcasing their competitiveness against the era's top teams in a match marked by intense rivalry. These accomplishments elevated Italian basketball's profile, with the triumph drawing over 10,000 fans and inspiring widespread media coverage across Europe. The club's global reach expanded through international tours, including a notable 1968 visit to the where Simmenthal Milano played exhibition games against college and professional teams, fostering exchanges that introduced European tactical depth to American audiences and vice versa. These outings, organized under Rubini's guidance, not only boosted player development but also enhanced the team's reputation abroad, with matches against squads like the affiliates generating buzz in U.S. sports circles. The era waned in the early 1970s amid sponsorship transitions and key retirements, as Rubini stepped down in 1972 after guiding the team to its final of the period, and Simmenthal's involvement concluded in 1973, ushering in a phase of rebuilding for the club.

Rebuilding period (1974–2007)

Following the departure of long-term sponsor Simmenthal in 1973 after 17 successful years, Olimpia Milano encountered financial that marked of a transitional era, prompting shifts in sponsorship to maintain operations. The club secured new backers, including Billy from 1978 to 1983, Simac from 1983 to 1986, and Tracer from 1986 to 1988, alongside others like , which provided essential support amid economic pressures in the and . Under coach , who led the team from 1982 to 1987, Olimpia experienced a resurgence, capturing Italian League championships (Scudetti) in 1982, 1985, and 1986, as well as the 1985 by defeating in the final. In European competition, the team reached the 1983 European Champions Cup final but fell short against Ford Cantù, 69-68, in a closely contested match at the Palais des Sports in . The late 1980s and 1990s brought mixed results, with continued domestic success including additional Scudetti in 1987 and 1989, but growing competitive challenges in Europe where no Champions Cup titles were secured despite strong showings, such as semifinals in 1992. Ownership changed hands in 1994 when Bepi Stefanel acquired the franchise, enabling the signing of international talents like Dejan Bodiroga, who joined in 1994 and played a pivotal role in the 1996 Scudetto victory alongside players such as Gregor Fučka and Sandro De Pol. That year also saw Olimpia win the Coppa Italia, their first since 1972. On the European front, the club claimed a second FIBA Korać Cup in 1993, led by point guard Saša Đorđević, defeating Virtus Roma in the final series. However, inconsistent performances in the FIBA European Champions Cup, including quarterfinal exits in several seasons, highlighted the difficulties in recapturing the dominance of prior eras. Entering the new millennium, Olimpia transitioned to the EuroLeague format in 2000, marking a new chapter in European play, though the club grappled with financial woes and on-court struggles in the early . By 2004, facing bankruptcy risks amid mounting debts, the team received stabilizing sponsorship from through his Armani Jeans brand, averting collapse and laying groundwork for future recovery. Despite these low points, Olimpia secured the in 2006, providing a glimmer of resurgence before the period's end.

Contemporary era (2008–present)

The contemporary era of Olimpia Milano marks a period of revival and sustained success following Giorgio Armani's acquisition of full ownership in 2008, which rescued the club from financial peril and injected stability through substantial sponsorship. The team initially competed as before adopting the EA7 Emporio branding in 2011, reflecting Armani's sportswear line and enhancing the club's visibility. By 2025, Armani's cumulative investment surpassed €226 million, including €21.6 million in the 2024 financial year alone, funding operations, player acquisitions, and enhancements to the Mediolanum Forum, such as improved seating and fan amenities to boost capacity and experience. Domestically, Olimpia reasserted dominance, securing Scudetti in 2014 against Montepaschi Siena, 2016 over Grissin Bon Reggio Emilia, 2018 versus Dolomiti Energia Trento, 2022 against , 2023 in a Game 7 thriller versus , and 2024 for a third consecutive title, also against . These victories, the sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, and eleventh under , underscored a return to elite contention after sporadic rebuilding efforts. The club also claimed multiple titles, including in 2016 over , 2017 against , and 2022 versus , contributing to a trophy haul that highlighted consistent national prowess. In European competition, Olimpia experienced resurgence by reaching the at the Mediolanum Forum, where they advanced to the final but fell to Maccabi Electra , 98–86. Subsequent seasons saw regular playoff contention, with the 2020–21 campaign disrupted by protocols after the 2019–20 season's cancellation without a champion, yet the team adapted to secure strong domestic results amid health challenges. Coaching stability came with Simone Pianigiani's appointment in 2017, leading to the 2018 before his 2019 departure, followed by Ettore Messina's arrival in 2022, who orchestrated the three-peat and pushes. As of November 2025, in the 2024–25 season, Olimpia is positioned 4th in the with a 5–2 record and remains competitive in the , evidenced by key wins like a 90–76 triumph over Germani in September 2024. This ongoing competitiveness, bolstered by Armani's financial commitment guaranteeing a €25–30 million annual budget, positions the club for continued elite status in both and .

Club Identity

Logos

The visual branding of Olimpia Milano has evolved alongside its sponsorship partnerships and historical milestones, with logos consistently featuring the club's signature red and white colors to symbolize energy, passion, and Milanese pride. These colors have remained a core element since the club's founding, inspiring the enduring nickname "Scarpette Rosse" (Little Red Shoes), which originated in the 1950s when team officials imported red Converse All-Star shoes from the for players, marking a pivotal moment in the club's early international influence. In the early years from the 1930s to the 1950s, during the Borletti era, the logo was a simple emblem tied to the Olimpia multi-sport club's origins, emphasizing basic and the team's initial name Dopolavoro Borletti without elaborate motifs, reflecting the modest beginnings of Italian at the time. The design shifted with the Simmenthal sponsorship from 1956 to 1973, incorporating brand-specific elements like product motifs alongside icons such as a ball or hoop, to align with the sponsor's identity while maintaining red and white dominance. Subsequent rebuilding periods from the 1970s to 2000s saw logos adapt to sponsors like Billy, Simac, Tracer, and , often featuring more functional designs with the sponsor's name prominently displayed above or beside the Olimpia script, prioritizing commercial visibility over artistic flair. The era, beginning with sponsorship in 2004 and ownership in 2008, introduced minimalist logos influenced by aesthetics, including geometric patterns and clean lines that echoed Emporio Armani's elegant style. A major redesign in created a fresher, more attractive emblem, reducing emphasis on the sponsor name "EA7 Emporio " and reverting to a prominent "Olimpia Milano" focus for a streamlined look suitable for competition. This version featured subtle geometric elements in red and white, symbolizing modernity and heritage. Over its nearly 90-year history, Olimpia Milano has undergone approximately five to six major logo redesigns, each tied to sponsorship transitions or branding refreshes: the initial emblem (simple text-based), the 1950s Simmenthal integration (brand motifs added), 1970s-1980s sponsor-heavy variants (functional overlays), 1990s-2000s Philips-era updates (corporate alignment), the 2011 Armani minimalist shift (geometric fashion influence), and the 2016 iteration (clean "O" evolution). Colors transitioned from primary red-white to occasional black-gold accents in Armani-era variants for premium appeal, but red-white always anchored the identity. In 2025, for the club's 90th , fans voted on a special commemorative logo to feature on jerseys during the 2025-2026 season, blending historical nods with contemporary design to honor the founding in 1936. This reflects ongoing ties to sponsorships like Emporio , where visual branding underscores commercial partnerships without overshadowing the core Olimpia identity.

Sponsorship names

Olimpia Milano, like many Italian basketball clubs, has frequently adopted sponsorship names as part of commercial partnerships, reflecting the league's tradition of integrating into team identities. These changes have often aligned with periods of competitive success and financial support from sponsors in industries such as , , , and . The sponsorships have enhanced the club's visibility by leveraging the sponsors' networks, contributing to its status as one of Europe's most prominent teams. From its founding in 1936 until 1955, the club was primarily known as Borletti Milano, sponsored by the Borletti Group, an Italian manufacturer of household appliances and sewing machines founded by Giovanni Borletti. This early partnership provided crucial financial backing during the club's formative years, helping establish it as a competitive force in Italian basketball and enabling investments in talent acquisition. The Borletti era laid the groundwork for Olimpia's identity, with the sponsor's name prominently featured in team branding. In 1956, the team rebranded to Simmenthal Milano under sponsorship from Simmenthal, a leading Italian food company specializing in meat extracts and canned products. This partnership lasted until 1973 and marked one of the most successful periods in club history, including multiple Italian championships and European titles, as the sponsor's resources funded star players like John McMillian. Simmenthal's involvement significantly boosted the team's international profile, associating basketball excellence with a household brand. The 1970s saw a transition with as sponsor from 1978 to 1983, where Billy was an Italian footwear and apparel brand. This era helped stabilize the club during a rebuilding phase post-Simmenthal, offering marketing synergies that increased fan engagement and jersey sales, though competitive results were mixed. During the , sponsorships included Milano from 1976 to 1979, from the American photocopier giant, which supported roster development with imports like Chuck Jura, enhancing technical innovation in team operations through the sponsor's corporate ethos. This was followed by Simac Milano from 1983 to 1986, then , a and sponsor, from 1986 to 1988, during which the team won the European Champions Cup in 1987, dramatically elevating the club's prestige and fan base through high-profile European campaigns. Milano, an electronics firm known for consumer goods, took over from 1988 to 1993, coinciding with renewed domestic success and providing global visibility via the brand's European network. These electronics and apparel partnerships in the underscored Olimpia's resurgence, with sponsors funding competitive squads that captured three straight Italian titles. (Note: Used for player association, but primary from official fact sheet) The 1990s and early 2000s featured varied sponsors like Stefanel (clothing, mid-1990s) and others including Recoaro (beverages) and (electronics), maintaining continuity amid fluctuating fortunes. These partnerships provided essential revenue but were shorter-term, reflecting the club's transitional phase. A pivotal shift occurred in 2004 with , sponsored by the luxury fashion house , before the group acquired ownership in 2008. This fashion industry tie-in revitalized the club, funding high-caliber signings and infrastructure, leading to multiple trophies and restoring elite status. In 2011, the name evolved to Emporio Armani Milano (until 2018), then A|X Armani Exchange Milano (2018–2022), before returning to Emporio Armani Milano (2022–present), referencing Armani's sportswear line, further embedding the brand in team aesthetics and global marketing. As of 2025, this sponsorship continues, with the Armani Group providing a record €21.6 million in the 2024 financial year, the highest sponsorship amount in club history, ensuring sustained competitiveness in and domestic leagues while amplifying luxury branding through .
PeriodSponsorship NameIndustryKey Impact
1936–1955Borletti MilanoHousehold appliancesEstablished foundational stability and early competitiveness.
1956–1973Simmenthal Milano (meat products)Enabled golden era with European successes and star imports.
1978–1983Footwear/apparelSupported rebuilding with increased merchandise visibility.
1976–1979 MilanoOffice equipmentBolstered roster with international talent.
1983–1986Simac MilanoStabilized during transition period.
1986–1988Tracer MilanoCulminated in 1987 victory.
1988–1993 MilanoCoincided with domestic title runs and global exposure.
2004–2011 Jeans MilanoLuxury fashionRevitalized club finances and led to ownership transition.
2011–presentEA7 / AX Exchange MilanoLuxury

Facilities

Primary arena

The primary arena for Olimpia Milano is the Unipol Forum, located in , approximately 3 km south of central . Opened in November 1990, the multi-purpose indoor venue replaced the older Palasport di as the club's main home court. It serves as the exclusive host for all of Olimpia Milano's and home games, accommodating the team's professional basketball operations under its Emporio sponsorship. The arena's basketball configuration seats 12,700 spectators, with a general maximum capacity of up to 15,800 for other events like concerts. Originally named PalaSharp after its initial sponsor, it underwent several naming changes: DatchForum from 2000 to 2008, Mediolanum Forum from 2009 to 2023 (reflecting Banca Mediolanum's sponsorship), and starting in May 2024 through a multi-year deal with the Italian financial group . Ownership and management are handled by Forumnet S.p.A., ensuring ongoing and event operations. Significant renovations have enhanced the facility's functionality and spectator experience. In 2014, ahead of hosting the , upgrades increased the basketball seating from 11,500 to 12,700, including improved access and safety features. Further work from 2016 to 2018 focused on regulatory compliance, expanded capacity, new internal signage, and modernized lighting systems installed by Cree Lighting to optimize visibility and energy efficiency during games. Notable features include a state-of-the-art video for real-time statistics and replays, dedicated fan zones for pre-game activities, and versatile multisport areas supporting training. The Unipol Forum will host figure skating and short track speed skating as the Milano Ice Skating Arena during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Olimpia Milano announced temporary relocations for select 2025-2026 season games to secondary sites like Allianz Cloud from December 2025 to February 2026, while maintaining Unipol Forum as the primary venue outside this period. No specific sustainability upgrades for the arena were detailed in 2024 announcements, though Unipol's broader corporate commitments emphasize environmental initiatives aligned with regional Olympic legacies.

Secondary arenas

Throughout its history, Olimpia Milano has utilized several secondary arenas for home games, training, and youth activities when the primary venue was unavailable or during transitional periods. The PalaLido di Milano, originally opened in 1961, served as an early home venue for the club starting in the 1960s, accommodating crowds of approximately 5,000 spectators for basketball matches. In the late 1970s, the club shifted to the Palasport di , a multi-sport facility built in 1976 near the famous Stadium, which hosted Olimpia's games until 1985 when its roof collapsed due to heavy snowfall. This arena, shared with and other events, had a capacity suitable for professional but was temporary in nature during the club's venue transitions. The renovated Allianz Cloud, built on the site of the original PalaLido and reopened in June 2019, now functions as the primary secondary arena with a capacity of 5,400 seats. It has hosted Olimpia Milano matches, including a celebratory return game in September 2019 attended by 5,000 fans, and serves for youth academy sessions and practices. Due to preparations for the , the club will use the Allianz Cloud for all home games from December 2025 to February 2026, as well as for qualifiers and other events when the Forum is unavailable.

Players

Current roster

As of November 15, 2025, the roster of Olimpia Milano (also known as Emporio Milan) for the 2025–26 season features a balanced mix of international veterans and emerging talents, emphasizing perimeter scoring and frontcourt versatility under head coach . Key offseason transactions included the signing of on a one-year deal to bolster playmaking after his stint in , and the addition of Quinn Ellis as a guard via free agency to inject athleticism into the backcourt. Recent mid-season moves: signed October 20, 2025 (#77, PF); Leonardo Totè signed September 22, 2025 (#35, C); Vlatko Čančar mutually parted ways October 22, 2025 due to knee injury. Multiple injuries are impacting the lineup as of November 15, 2025, including (muscle, ongoing), ( from November 13 slip, unavailable), (long-term unspecified), Shavon Shields (out), and (, potential month out), prompting small-ball adjustments and elevation of reserves like and . The team typically deploys a starting lineup of Nico Mannion at point guard, Marko Gudurić at shooting guard, Leandro Bolmaro at small forward, Zach LeDay at power forward, and Josh Nebo at center when healthy, with bench depth provided by Stefano Tonut, Shavon Shields, and Devin Booker for scoring and rebounding.
No.PlayerPositionNationalityHeightNotes
1Niccolò MannionPGItaly/USA1.90 mTeam captain; multi-year contract extension in 2024 for leadership role.
2Lorenzo BrownPG/SGUSA/Spain1.96 m2025 signing; EuroLeague veteran with strong assist numbers. Out long-term injured as of Nov 2025.
3Quinn EllisPGUSA1.95 m2025 free agent addition; rookie with college scoring pedigree.
6Devin BookerCUSA2.05 m2025 signing; athletic center for rim protection.
7Stefano TonutSGItaly1.94 mLong-term club member; key sixth man for perimeter defense.
10Leandro BolmaroSG/SFArgentina/Italy2.00 m2024 extension; versatile wing with NBA experience.
12Armoni BrooksSGUSA1.91 mMid-season acquisition in 2025; provides shooting depth.
16Zach LeDayPFUSA2.00 mRe-signed for 2025–26; reliable forward with EuroLeague scoring average over 10 PPG. Ongoing muscle injury as of Nov 2025.
17Giampaolo RicciPFItaly2.02 mHomegrown talent; bench contributor with rebounding focus.
21Diego FlaccadoriPG/SGItaly1.95 mMulti-year extension in 2025; defensive specialist.
23Marko GudurićSG/SFSerbia1.96 mMulti-year deal July 2025; versatile wing scorer.
31Shavon ShieldsSFUSA/Italy1.98 mMulti-year deal; starting forward known for clutch performances. Out injured as of Nov 2025.
32Josh NeboCUSA2.06 mDepth big man; signed in summer 2025 for rebounding. Concussion, unavailable as of Nov 15, 2025.
35Leonardo TotèCItaly2.11 mSigned Sep 2025; developmental center with Italian League experience.
42Bryant DunstonCUSA2.03 mVeteran leader; short-term contract for mentorship.
77Nate SestinaPF/CUSA2.06 mSigned Oct 20, 2025; stretch forward. Triceps injury, potential month out as of Nov 2025.
0Ousmane DiopCSpain2.04 mYoung prospect; developmental role in rotation.

Depth chart

The depth chart for Olimpia Milano in the 2025–2026 season emphasizes a balanced rotation under head coach , who prioritizes defensive versatility and perimeter shooting while relying on experienced big men for rebounding and interior presence. The typical starting five features at , at shooting guard, at , at , and at , forming a unit capable of switching on defense and spacing the floor effectively. Bench players provide specialized roles, such as 3-point shooting from Quinn Ellis and veteran leadership from , allowing for staggered minutes to maintain energy levels. However, as of November 15, 2025, mid-season injuries have necessitated adaptations, with (muscle, ongoing), (concussion from Nov 13 slip, unavailable), (long-term), Shavon Shields (out), and (triceps, potential month out) sidelined, prompting Messina to elevate reserves like , Leonardo Totè, and into larger roles and adjust lineups for more small-ball options. No major trades have occurred since Vlatko Čančar's departure in October 2025.

Point Guards

The point guard group offers a mix of scoring creativity and defensive tenacity, with 2–3 players rotating based on matchup needs. serves as the primary starter, leveraging his quickness and playmaking, while Quinn Ellis, a 2025 rookie addition, specializes in off-ball shooting as a key reserve. Diego Flaccadori provides defensive depth.

Shooting Guards

Shooting guards focus on perimeter defense and transition scoring, with anchoring the position at 1.96 m and providing multi-positional flexibility. Reserves include veterans like (1.94 m) for clutch scoring and for athletic wing play.

Small Forwards

The small forward spot emphasizes versatile wings who can guard multiple positions, led by Shavon Shields (1.98 m) as a starter known for his scoring efficiency when healthy. (2.00 m) backs him up with strong rebounding for his size and NBA experience.

Power Forwards

Power forwards blend stretch shooting with physicality, with (2.00 m) as the usual starter, though his injury has shifted duties to (2.02 m). (2.06 m) adds versatility from the bench when healthy. Ousmane Diop (2.04 m) provides athleticism.

Centers

The center rotation prioritizes rim protection and pick-and-roll finishing, with Josh Nebo (2.06 m) starting when healthy, supported by veteran Bryant Dunston (2.03 m) for leadership and rebounding. Devin Booker (2.05 m) and Leonardo Totè (2.11 m) provide depth, with Booker often used in smaller lineups.
PositionPlayerHeight (m)Experience Level
Point Guard1.90Veteran (NBA/EuroLeague)
Point Guard1.96Veteran (NBA/EuroLeague)
Point GuardQuinn Ellis1.95Rookie (NCAA/Prospect)
Point GuardDiego Flaccadori1.95Veteran (Italian League)
Shooting Guard2.00Veteran (NBA/EuroLeague)
Shooting Guard1.94Veteran (Italian League)
Shooting Guard1.91Mid-level (NBA G-League)
Shooting Guard1.96Veteran (EuroLeague)
Small ForwardShavon Shields1.98Veteran (EuroLeague)
Small Forward2.00Veteran (NBA/EuroLeague)
Power Forward2.00Veteran (EuroLeague)
Power Forward2.02Veteran (Italian League)
Power ForwardOusmane Diop2.04Mid-level (EuroLeague)
Power Forward2.06Mid-level (EuroLeague)
Center2.06Mid-level (EuroLeague)
Center2.03Veteran (EuroLeague)
Center2.05Veteran (EuroLeague)
CenterLeonardo Totè2.11Mid-level (Italian League)

Notable former players

Sandro Gamba, a pivotal figure in Olimpia Milano's early dominance during the 1950s and 1960s, played his entire club career with the team from 1949 to 1963, contributing to 10 Italian League championships (1951–1954, 1957–1960, 1962–1963). As captain and symbol of the club, Gamba's leadership helped secure two European Champions Cup titles in 1966 and 1967, though those came later in his coaching role; his playing era laid the foundation for Milano's golden age. Internationally, he captained the Italian national team at the 1960 Rome Olympics, earning a and establishing himself as a Hall of Famer in 2023 for his contributions to European basketball. In the 1980s, emerged as one of the club's most prolific guards, playing from 1977 to 1990 and becoming the all-time leading scorer for Olimpia Milano with over 5,000 points in league play. Naturalized Italian, he served as the first non-Italian captain and led the team to three consecutive Italian League titles (1985–1987) and a Saporta Cup victory in 1987, showcasing his playmaking with averages exceeding 20 points per game in key seasons. D'Antoni's international impact included representing at the 1984 Olympics and multiple EuroBaskets, later earning induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2002 as a contributor. Bob McAdoo, an NBA Hall of Famer, joined Olimpia Milano from 1987 to 1990, bringing scoring prowess that averaged 25.4 points per game in his debut season of 1987-88, helping secure the Italian League title in 1987 and a European Champions Cup final appearance in 1988. His tenure revitalized the team's offense during a transitional era, and he was inducted into the Olimpia Milano Hall of Fame in 2013. Dino Meneghin, another Italian legend and Hall of Famer, played for Milano from 1981 to 1990, winning five Italian League championships (1982, 1985–1987, 1990) and two European Champions Cup titles (1987, 1988), while representing in four Olympics, including a bronze at the 1980 Moscow Games. Dejan Bodiroga, a Serbian star of the 1990s and early 2000s, spent two seasons with Olimpia Milano (1995–1997), winning the 1995-96 Italian League championship and reaching two Korac Cup finals, where his scoring and versatility—averaging 18 points per game—earned him honors in 1996. As a long-tenured European icon, Bodiroga later captured three titles with other clubs but was honored in Milano's Hall of Fame in 2013; internationally, he secured Olympic silver in 1996 and three golds (1995, 1997, 2001) with . In the 2010s, provided scoring leadership from 2020 to 2023, helping win the Italian League in 2022 and earning Italian Cup MVP in 2022 with 21 points in the final, while averaging 14.5 points and 5.5 assists per game in his standout 2020-21 season. Sergio Rodriguez, the Spanish , played for Milano from 2019 to 2022, contributing to the 2021 Italian Cup, 2020 Supercup, and 2022 League title, with his playmaking (5.8 assists per game in 2020-21) and three-point shooting (50% in early 2020) key to the success; he entered the Olimpia Hall of Fame in 2024 and represented at two Olympics (2008, 2012). These players, many Hall of Famers, shaped Milano's legacy through titles and international representation.

Retired numbers

Olimpia Milano has retired several jersey numbers to honor individuals who made profound contributions to the club's history, primarily through on-court excellence, , and long-term . These retirements recognize players and one coach whose tenures aligned with eras of domestic dominance and European success, such as multiple Italian League championships in the , , and . The honored jerseys are displayed in the rafters of the Mediolanum Forum, the club's primary arena, symbolizing their enduring legacy. The number 8 is uniquely retired in honor of two figures: Sandro Gamba, a legendary Italian player and captain who led Olimpia to seven Italian League titles between 1950 and 1963, establishing the club's early dominance in European basketball during the 1960s; his jersey was retired on December 17, 2021, during a halftime ceremony against , attended by club owner and former teammate Dino Meneghin. , an American-Italian guard who played from 1975 to 1980 and contributed to three league titles with his scoring prowess and playmaking, shares the honor; his retirement occurred on March 13, 2015, at halftime of a game against . Number 11 belongs to Dino Meneghin, an Italian center and Hall of Famer who spent much of his career (1973–1980 and 1990–1993) with Olimpia, winning five Italian titles and helping secure the club's first crown in 1987; it was retired on December 3, 2019, in a ceremony at the Mediolanum Forum following a matchup with . Arthur Kenney's number 18 was retired for the American forward-center who played from 1970 to 1973, bringing international talent and contributing to back-to-back Italian League wins in 1972 and 1973 through his rebounding and scoring; the ceremony took place in May 2013 during the club's 80th anniversary celebrations. In a departure from player honors, number 36 was retired for coach , who guided Olimpia to five Italian titles and the 1987 victory from 1979 to 1987 and briefly in 2011, revolutionizing the team's style with fast-paced offense; the "Dan Peterson Night" ceremony occurred on April 2, 2023, during a league game against .
NumberHonoreeRoleTenureRetirement DateSignificance
8Sandro GambaPlayer1950–1963December 17, 2021Captain and symbol of 1960s championships; seven Italian League titles.
8Player1975–1980March 13, 2015Key scorer in three-title era; bridged American and Italian styles.
11Dino MeneghinPlayer1973–1980, 1990–1993December 3, 2019Five domestic titles and 1987 win; Hall of Famer.
18Arthur KenneyPlayer1970–1973May 2013Rebounding force in two consecutive league championships.
36Coach1979–1987, 2011April 2, 2023Architect of five titles and 1987 triumph; innovative tactics.
As of November 2025, no additional retirements have occurred since 2023.

Achievements

Domestic competitions

Olimpia Milano holds the record for the most Serie A championships (Scudetti) in Italian basketball history, with 31 titles as of the 2023–24 season. The club dominated the early years of the competition, winning the first four consecutive titles from 1935–36 to 1938–39, followed by a post-war surge with seven victories in the late 1940s and 1950s (1949–50, 1950–51, 1951–52, 1952–53, 1953–54, 1956–57, 1957–58) and eight in the late 1950s and 1960s (1958–59, 1959–60, 1961–62, 1962–63, 1964–65, 1965–66, 1966–67). Additional triumphs came in 1971–72, 1981–82, 1984–85, 1985–86, 1986–87, 1988–89, 1995–96, 2013–14, 2015–16, 2017–18, 2021–22, 2022–23, and 2023–24, including three consecutive wins from 2021–22 to 2023–24 under coach Ettore Messina. The club has secured the 8 times, tying with and Benetton for the second-most wins behind 's 9. Victories occurred in 1971–72 (defeating Ignis ), 1985–86 (defeating Scavolini Pesaro), 1986–87 (defeating Scavolini Pesaro), 1995–96 (defeating Scavolini Pesaro), 2015–16 (defeating Sidigas Avellino), 2016–17 (defeating Grissin Bon Reggio Emilia), 2020–21 (defeating ), and 2021–22 (defeating Nutribullet ). These successes highlight Olimpia's strength in knockout formats, with multiple back-to-back wins in the and . Olimpia Milano has claimed the 6 times since the competition's inception in 1995, tying with for the most titles. The wins came in 2016 (defeating Sidigas Avellino), 2017 (defeating Grissin Bon Reggio Emilia), 2018 (defeating Germani Brescia), 2020 (defeating ), 2024 (defeating ), and 2025 (defeating Germani Brescia). In all-time records, Olimpia Milano boasts the highest number of championships and a historic 47-game from 1962 to 1964, the longest in league history. The club maintains a favorable head-to-head record against primary rival , leading 50–37 in documented regular-season and playoff meetings as of 2025. As of November 2025, in the early 2025–26 season, Olimpia sits third in the standings with a 75% win rate after four games (3 wins, 1 loss).

European competitions

Olimpia Milano boasts one of the richest legacies in European basketball, with three championships to its name, won in 1966, 1987, and 1988. The club's first triumph came in the 1965–66 European Champions Cup, defeating Vasas 79–74 in the final held in , marking Italy's inaugural title in the competition. This success was followed by a runner-up finish in 1967, where they lost to Real Madrid in the final. The late 1980s resurgence under coach Franco Casalini saw consecutive victories: in 1987, Tracer Milano edged 71–69 in the final in , and in 1988, they overcame 90–84 in to secure back-to-back crowns, propelled by stars like and Dino Meneghin. In the modern era, Olimpia has maintained a prominent presence, qualifying for the competition nearly every season since its inception in and accumulating over 400 all-time wins, placing them among the leaders in total victories. The club has reached the three times: claiming the 1988 title, finishing third in , and returning after a 29-year absence in , where they fell in the semifinals to 84–82 before securing third place with a 79–71 win over Anadolu Efes. Olimpia's consistent participation underscores their status as a foundational club in European , with players like holding team records for most EuroLeague appearances (over 200 games). Beyond the , Olimpia has excelled in other and ULEB-organized events. They captured the three times—1971, 1972, and 1976—establishing dominance in Europe's secondary club competition during the . Additionally, the team won the in 1985 and 1993, with the latter victory coming against in the final. Olimpia has also competed in the EuroCup multiple times, notably advancing to the Last 16 in the 2003–04 and 2006–07 seasons, though without securing a title. In the most recent 2024–25 campaign, Olimpia Milano posted a balanced 17–17 regular-season record, qualifying for the play-in round where they were eliminated, highlighting their competitive edge amid a transitional period under coach . The club's historical contributions extend to individual accolades, with former players like Meneghin ranking among the all-time scoring leaders with over 4,000 points across his career.

Other competitions

Olimpia Milano achieved a significant international milestone by winning the in 1987, defeating 100–84 in the final played at the in . This victory, under coach Franco Casalini, marked the club's only title in the competition, which pitted European champions against South American counterparts. The team also competed in the inaugural editions of the , an early precursor to modern club world tournaments. In 1987, Olimpia finished third in , and in 1989, they reached the semifinals in before securing third place overall with a 136–104 win over in the consolation game. Beyond official global events, Olimpia has a history of participation in unofficial and friendly international competitions. In the , the club won the in 1966, a regional tournament for teams from Latin European countries. The team has also engaged in various preseason friendlies and exhibitions, including matchups against NBA teams such as the in 1987 and the in 2010. In recent years, coverage of Olimpia's youth squads in international settings remains limited, but the club's under-18 team participated in the SAM Basket International Youth Tournament in 2019, contributing to ongoing global development efforts.

Season-by-season

Domestic league performance

Olimpia Milano, founded in 1936, has competed in Italy's top-tier basketball league, initially known as and later as (LBA), achieving unparalleled success with a record 31 league championships. The club's domestic performance has been marked by eras of dominance, where they often topped standings and swept through , contrasted by periods of struggle amid intense competition from like and . Their achievements also include 8 titles, with notable wins in recent years reinforcing their status as Italy's premier club. The 1930s marked the club's earliest success with 4 league titles (1936–1939). The 1950s represented Olimpia's first golden era, during which they captured 5 league titles (1950–1954), frequently posting undefeated or near-perfect regular season records under legendary coach Cesare Rubini, who led the team to multiple triumphs as well. This period solidified their early reputation, with the team averaging over 80% win rates in league play and advancing to finals almost annually. The 1960s extended this success with 6 additional titles (1960, 1962, 1963, 1965, 1966, 1967), though playoff formats were less structured, emphasizing regular season supremacy. The 1970s saw continued success with 1 title (1972) alongside consistent top-5 finishes, as emerging teams challenged their hegemony; however, they secured a in 1971. The 1980s revived dominance, yielding 5 championships (1982, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1989) under coaches like Franco Marcelletti, highlighted by strong playoff performances including a 1987 sweep in the finals. Olimpia also won titles in 1986 and 1987 during this run. The 1990s proved challenging overall but included 1 league title (1996) amid frequent mid-table finishes or early playoff exits, such as missing the postseason in 1993–94 and 1995–96 amid roster instability and financial issues; their best result was a fourth-place regular season in 1992–93, but they exited playoffs in the quarterfinals. This decade's struggles contrasted sharply with prior success, as competitors like Benetton Treviso dominated. No wins occurred, underscoring the era's challenges. The 2000s marked a resurgence, with 4 titles (2005, 2006, 2007, 2011), including victories in 2006 and 2007. The and early brought further glory, with titles in 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2022, 2023, and 2024, often clinched in grueling playoff series under coaches like and , alongside wins in 2016, 2017, and 2021. These eras featured high regular season win percentages, typically above 75%, and deep postseason runs.
SeasonRegular Season Record (W-L)Playoff ResultCoppa ItaliaCoach
2016–1722–8Runners-up
2017–1819–11ChampionsQuarterfinals
2018–1923–7Runners-upSemifinals
2019–2017–3*N/A (COVID)
2020–2122–6ChampionsSemifinals
2021–2223–7ChampionsRunners-up
2022–2323–7ChampionsQuarterfinals
2023–2422–8ChampionsSemifinals
2024–2520–10SemifinalsRunners-up
2025–26**13–5OngoingN/A
*Season shortened due to COVID-19. **As of February 13, 2026, Olimpia Milano has a 13–5 record in the Lega Basket Serie A, showing strong performance and positioning for a top playoff seed amid a competitive league. The team has maintained playoff contention in parallel European campaigns, but domestic focus remains on reclaiming the .

European competition performance

Olimpia Milano first entered European competitions in 1958, competing in the inaugural European Champions Cup, marking the club's entry into continental . Over the decades, the team established itself as one of Europe's elite clubs, securing three European Champions Cup titles in 1966, , and , as well as two FIBA Korać Cups in 1985 and 1993. These achievements highlight Milano's dominance in the pre-modern era, with the and triumphs coming under the Tracer sponsorship and featuring stars like Mike D'Antoni and Dino Meneghin. With the advent of the modern in 2000, Olimpia Milano has been a consistent participant, appearing in nearly every season and reaching the multiple times, including the quarterfinals in 2010–11 and the in 2021. The club transitioned to the 's current format, focusing on regular-season performance to qualify for postseason play, where top teams advance to quarterfinals and potentially the . Key milestones include three titles in 1971, 1972, and 1976, underscoring the team's sustained competitiveness. In recent years, Milano has navigated the expanded 18-team format, with the regular season determining direct playoff spots for the top six teams and play-in opportunities for seeds 7–10. The 2023–24 season saw the team finish 12th with a 15–19 record, missing the playoffs after close contests against teams like Fenerbahçe and . The 2024–25 campaign resulted in a 17–17 regular-season mark, placing 10th and again falling short of postseason qualification despite strong showings against Real Madrid and . As of February 13, 2026, in the 2025–26 regular season, Olimpia Milano holds a 14–13 record after 27 games, averaging 85.6 points per game. Across their last 10 games (from January 15 to February 9, 2026), Olimpia Milano averaged 84.4 points per game, with points scored in these games: 96, 87, 77, 82, 74, 85, 81, 109, 77, 76. The team remains in contention for a playoff spot.
SeasonCompetitionStage ReachedKey Opponents/Notes
1958–59FIBA European Champions CupPreliminary roundEarly exit; first participation.
1965–66FIBA European Champions CupChampionsDefeated in final (from historical records).
1984–85ChampionsWon title; key wins over Spanish and French clubs.
1986–87FIBA European Champions CupChampionsBeat 71–69 in final.
1987–88FIBA European Champions CupChampionsDefeated in final.
1992–93ChampionsSecond Korać title.
2000–01QuarterfinalsLost to Tau Cerámica.
2004–05Top 16Eliminated in group stage.
2010–11QuarterfinalsLost series to .
2020–21QuarterfinalsDefeated by Anadolu Efes.
2021–22PlayoffsLost to Bayern Munich.
2023–24Regular season (12th, 15–19)Key losses to Fenerbahçe (77–76) and .
2024–25Regular season (10th, 17–17)Notable games vs. Real Madrid and .
2025–26Regular season (ongoing, 14–13 after 27 games)Averaging 85.6 points per game; recent win examples include strong offensive outputs.
Note: The table focuses on representative seasons with verified data; full historical participation includes multiple group-stage exits in the 1970s–1990s Saporta and Korać Cups, and consistent involvement since 2000 without additional titles. Gaps reflect limited primary source details for every year, prioritizing high-impact results.

Notable Matches and Performances

Top results in European and worldwide competitions

Olimpia Milano achieved one of its most memorable European victories in the 1965–66 FIBA European Champions Cup semifinals against Real Madrid, securing a 93–76 win in the second leg after a narrow 71–66 defeat in the first, advancing to the final with an aggregate score of 159–147. This triumph marked a pivotal moment in the club's European history, overcoming a strong Real Madrid side that had previously eliminated Milano in the 1964 semifinals. The victory propelled Olimpia to its first European Champions Cup title, defeating Slavia VŠ Praha 77–72 in the final held in . In worldwide competitions, Olimpia Milano claimed the 1987 FIBA Intercontinental Cup, hosted at in , by defeating 100–84 in the final. led the scoring with 25 points, while Rickey Brown contributed 13 rebounds, showcasing the team's depth during a preseason tournament that added to their trophy cabinet despite the early-season timing. This win highlighted Milano's global competitiveness, following their 1987 championship. The club holds notable records in EuroLeague play, including a high-scoring road performance of 102 points against Khimki Moscow in 2021, tying for their fifth-best offensive output away from home in the modern era. A standout comeback occurred in the 2025 EuroLeague regular season, where Olimpia rallied from a 16-point deficit to defeat Žalgiris Kaunas 89–78 on the road, demonstrating resilience in a key victory. In club-specific EuroLeague statistics, Shavon Shields stands as the all-time leading scorer with over 1,500 points accumulated since joining in 2020, surpassing previous benchmarks through consistent scoring across multiple seasons. Sergio Rodríguez holds the record for most assists, reaching 1,500 career assists in 2022 while with Milano, establishing him as the club's historical leader in playmaking with his precise distribution.

Games against NBA teams

Olimpia Milano has engaged in several exhibition matches against NBA teams, primarily as part of preseason tours and the NBA's Global Games initiatives, allowing the club to test its roster against elite American competition while preparing for the European season. One of the earliest notable encounters in the occurred on October 3, 2010, when Olimpia Milano hosted the in during the Knicks' preseason European tour. The Knicks won 125–113, with scoring 32 points in his debut for the team, while Milano's Mike Hall led the home side with 25 points in a competitive showing that kept the game close until the final minutes. In 2012, as part of the NBA Europe Live Tour, Olimpia Milano faced the on October 7 in . The Celtics dominated with a 105–75 victory, led by Paul Pierce's 18 points, highlighting the physical and speed differences in a lopsided affair at the Mediolanum Forum. The club renewed its matchup against the three years later on October 6, 2015, again in under the banner. Boston secured another decisive win, 124–91, with Isaiah Thomas contributing 20 points off the bench; Milano's roster, featuring players like , struggled to match the NBA team's depth and athleticism. These games, along with others in the club's , underscore Olimpia Milano's role in bridging European and NBA , though the team has yet to secure a victory in such encounters. No additional preseason matchups against NBA opponents occurred in the 2024–2025 period.

References

Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.