A Transatlantic Basketball Initiative
The Longwood Lancers men's basketball squad is set to depart for Italy this summer, a journey made possible by a network of donors eager to support the program’s growth on the global stage.
During their stay, the team will stage exhibition matches in three historic cities — Florence, Milan and Rome — while also touring iconic landmarks such as the Vatican, the ancient Coliseum and the famed Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Beyond the competition, the itinerary is designed to foster camaraderie among the players and to immerse them in Italy’s rich cultural tapestry, offering a rare chance for cross‑continental exchange.
The roster boasts five international athletes hailing from Estonia, Canada, Lithuania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Republika Srpska, a diversity that the coaching staff believes will enrich the team’s dynamics and broaden its perspective.
This tour follows a tradition of international travel for the Lancers, recalling a pre‑season trip to England and France ahead of the 2023‑24 campaign, underscoring the program’s long‑standing commitment to experiential learning.
Ronnie Thomas, a central figure in the program’s administration, is among those who have helped orchestrate the venture, reflecting the collaborative effort behind the scenes that makes such undertakings possible.