Roma SPQR has taken another massive step in building its organization ahead of its debut 2026/27 season.
The Italian franchise has officially added two prominent figures from American basketball to its leadership structure: Hall of Famer Chris Mullin, alongside longtime NBA executive Bryan Colangelo.
Official club statement
In an official statement, the club outlined the strategic vision and structure of its new governing body, emphasizing a bridge between North American and European basketball.
“BC Roma SPQR announces today that Bryan Colangelo and Chris Mullin will join the club’s Advisory Board, adding two highly respected figures from American basketball to a group bridging experience on both sides of the Atlantic. The club continues to build a project designed to connect Rome to the highest levels of global basketball.”
Two-time NBA Executive of the Year Bryan Colangelo and Hall of Famer Chris Mullin are now advisors to the BC Roma team co-founded by Donnie Nelson and Luka Dončić.
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) September 9, 2026
Colangelo and Mullin join an advisory board also featuring ex-Spanish NT coach/Raptors assistant Sergio Scariolo. pic.twitter.com/JD7Jj2kgSF
“Colangelo and Mullin will join Valerio Bianchini, Honorary President of BC Roma SPQR, and Sergio Scariolo, Special Advisor for Basketball Strategy, as the club continues to establish the foundations of its sports and organizational project.”
“The Advisory Board will provide strategic advice to club leadership on roster construction, talent identification, organizational development, and coaching philosophy, drawing upon extensive experience across the NBA, international basketball, team building, player development, and basketball operations.”
Bryan Colangelo’s new role
Speaking on his new role in SPQR Roma, Bryan Colangelo highlighted his high expectations for the ambitious Italian franchise.
“I am truly excited to join such an experienced and prestigious group of basketball professionals, many of whom I have competed against over the years, as we take on the ambitious challenge of building a world-class organization for a world-class city like Rome.”
Luka Doncic to Roma, here we go confirmed! 😅
— Basketball Sphere (@BSphere_) September 6, 2026
According to reports from Italy, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar could be in attendance for the Roma–Inter clash in the Italian capital on September 19. 🇮🇹
Doncic’s potential appearance is reportedly linked to the Roma SPQR… pic.twitter.com/DgzkQrYxlR
“With the season right around the corner and European basketball undergoing a period of profound evolution, I truly believe there is a unique opportunity to build something important and lasting here that fans in Rome and across Europe can be proud of.”
“I am thrilled to take on the leadership of the BC Roma Advisory Board and to support Donnie and the rest of the organization as the club continues its development, both on and off the court.”
Chris Mullin on passion for Italian basketball culture
Golden State Warriors legend and former USA national team player Chris Mullin underscored Italy’s unique connection to the game of basketball and his eagerness to contribute to the city of Rome.
“Basketball has given me so much throughout my life, and the opportunity to be part of a new project like SPQR Roma is truly exciting. Italy has a great basketball culture and an authentic passion for the sport, and Rome is an extraordinary place to build something special. I look forward to supporting the club, sharing my experience, and helping BC Roma build an identity that players and fans can fully identify with.”
