Marco Belinelli: From San Giovanni in Persiceto to NBA Champion and Beyond

Marco Belinelli, the first Italian to win an NBA championship, is the subject of a new documentary, “THE BASKETBALL DREAM – MARCO BELINELLI,” which chronicles his remarkable journey from his hometown of San Giovanni in Persiceto to the pinnacle of professional basketball. The film explores themes of dedication, talent and the pursuit of dreams, featuring interviews with basketball luminaries like Andrea Bargnani, Emanuel Ginobili, Tony Parker, and Baron Davis.

A Career Spanning Continents

Belinelli’s career began with Virtus Bologna, where he first honed his skills. He was then drafted by the Golden State Warriors with the 18th overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft [2]. Over the next decade, he played for several NBA teams, including the Toronto Raptors, New Orleans Hornets, Chicago Bulls, San Antonio Spurs, Sacramento Kings, Charlotte Hornets, Atlanta Hawks, and Philadelphia 76ers [2]. His most significant achievement came in 2014 as a member of the San Antonio Spurs, where he won an NBA championship [1], [4].

Return to Italy and Retirement

Belinelli ultimately returned to Italy, rejoining Virtus Bologna, where he added three Italian championships and three Supercoppe to his trophy case [1]. He announced his retirement on August 18, 2025, at the age of 39 [1], [4].

“THE BASKETBALL DREAM” Documentary Premiere and Release

The documentary “THE BASKETBALL DREAM – MARCO BELINELLI”, directed by Giorgio Testi, will premiere on February 22, 2026, at The Space Cinema Dora in Turin, coinciding with the final day of the Frecciarossa Final Eight [3]. Belinelli will be present, meeting fans and participating in a masterclass moderated by Gianluca Gazzoli. Young basketball players will have the unique opportunity to watch the film and play basketball with Belinelli at the cinema [3]. The film will then have a special event release in theaters on March 16, 17, and 18, with special screenings planned for schools on March 17 and 18 [3].