NEWS: The Euroleague has selected Turin, Italy to host the 2011 Final Four. The games will be played at the 16,600-seat Palasport Olimpico, which was built for the 2006 Winter Olympics.  Turin hosted those Olympics and did a fantastic job entertaining the world.  They have also hosted the 2008 and 2009 EuroCup, making this a perfect location for next year’s finals.  Here is a quote from Jordi Bertomeau, CEO of Euroleague Basketball, about the event and how he is pleased to bring it to Turin.

“It is a pleasure for Euroleague Basketball to be taking its signature event back to Italy and inviting fans to join us in the Olympic city of Turin. Anyone who has already visited here for the 2006 Winter Olympics or for our own Eurocup events knows that Turin is a host of the highest quality, whether we are talking about organization, facilities or the city itself. We look forward to working step-by-step with Turin to make 2011 a memorable year for both the Final Four and the city’s anniversary celebration.”

IMPACT: Having the Final Four so close to Milan and not very far from Siena should give both teams extra motivation to go all out next season.  Siena has a chance to make the Final Four in Paris this season, but they could be even better next year.  Siena needs to upgrade it’s perimeter scorers and get any kind of depth down low.  Milan had a disappointing season this year after having a tremendous offseason.  They couldn’t even qualify for the Top 16 and desperately need strength inside.  Mo Finley played great for them this year but the offense was very stagnant and the team can hopefully bring back a lot of the same players so there is more chemistry on this team.