Tersillo, basketball from San Lorentino to the United States

By Andrea Lorendini

From the San Lorentino Building to the American College. Continuing the dream of becoming a basketball star, but not forgetting the importance of study. This is the story of Matteo Tersilo from Arezzo, who turned twenty in August. A big boy who weighed 196 centimeters and weighed 85 pounds, with the role of a sports guard in the United States for a few months, at Midland College in Texas, thanks to a sports scholarship.

Arezzo grew up in a basketball school, its historic manager Tario Frocci cried yesterday. Arezzo was a central figure in basketball, first coach and then president, who saw Tersillo excel among his many students.

The 15-year-old young basketball player, growing up, moved away from his family and moved to Passano del Groba. Subsequent four national youth finals and then landing in Serie B in Giulianova won the salvation. The opportunity to fly abroad came last July and he did not miss it.

Tersillo, how did the opportunity to go to college come about?

“In the summer, following some advice, I chose to enroll in a community college. The program will last for two years: I’m studying, playing in the Njcaa Championship, hoping to get another scholarship for four more years and finish my games. Career and university”.

How does the American dream live?

“I came on September 1st and started training immediately after starting school. The transition from Italy is shocking. Here it is a completely different world, there is more competition and you are fighting every day for what you want to achieve in life.”

How is your day in college?

“I get up at 7am, have breakfast in the canteen, and then mentally prepare myself for classes from 8 to 13. I have no class from 9:20 to 10:50 three days a week, and this time I do personal training in one of the interiors of the school. After lunch, Training starts at 2pm and usually lasts from 5.30-6pm. After dinner, my day ends at the library where there are mandatory times for basketball players to do ours.

The goal is to become a professional?

“First I want to finish my sports and education career in the United States and go on to study playing in Europe. I need to study more with basketball.”

Who is the basketball player you are inspired by?

“My favorite is Larry Bird, while I’m inspired by Clay Thompson.”

Is the NBA a secret dream?

“I want to give basketball to my future family by doing what I love playing anywhere. For now, the NBA is a very distant goal.”