SIENA – Negotiations continue in Viale Sclavo, but it seems a little early for any official word or announcements. It’s unlikely anything will be resolved in the two/three market situations involving Montepaschi, who’s focused on filling the slots left empty (point guard and forward) and the one (guard) theoretically still filled by a David Hawkins who’s wish does not seem to be accept the national title winning club’s offer: a three-year with lower numbers but that gives assures him the Viale Sclavo club’s confidence in light of the project that’s beginning. However, the Hawk, is retreating and seems increasingly more intent on accepting an adventure in Russia with Khimki. Out of all the names circulating these past weeks, Alan Anderson seems the most closely linked to the green-and-white jersey. Ferdinando Minucci moved on him early both because he had to prepare for Sato’s possible departure (which came true) and because he’d been following under the radar, the various steps that lead to the American’s separation from Maccabi Tel Aviv at the end of June. This doesn’t mean it’s a done deal. At any moment, the destabilizing effect of the dollars someone like Olympiacos (Pireo keeps themselves in the mix no purpose) can bring to the stable to tip the scales could emerge, however, as of today, Anderson is much closer to a return to Italy than he was previously. Meanwhile, information on McIntyre’s heir remains vague. Earl Calloway, the American point guard with a Bulgarian passport, is an element of interest, but it’s not a given he’ll distance himself from Cajasol Seville, with whom he’s done very well and earned a lot of credibility. In recent hours, there’s been talk (and written reports) of a closening between the two that could cut Montepaschi out. But that all has yet to be verified and the Calloway is still an important one for the Italian champions as they work to overcome obstacles. The name Lester "Bo" McCalebb has often been cited as an alternative. The athlete made headlines with his red hot end to the Euroleague season when he carried Partizan Belgrade on his back and made a noteworthy contribution to eliminating Maccabi Tel Aviv during the Final 4 in Paris. He’s and very interesting and solid players who’s maybe even too attractive after his latest performances. And he’s caught Mens Sana’s interest, though there’s nothing concrete yet. It’s a matter of waiting, evaluating certain moves (something Minucci’s been doing for some time now) and then putting it in black and white – without excluding anything right off the bat. Who knows? Some new names could suddenly emerge and cast away those just mentioned.

Matteo Tasso