Vanoli Cremona has been moved to Rome, renamed Basketball Roma SPQR, with a Serie A debut in 2026‑2027 at the PalaEur. The deal was approved at the end of May and marks the return of two Roman teams to the top league.
What was the transfer?
The extraordinary federal council of the Italian Basketball Federation authorized the transfer of Vanoli Cremona's sporting title to Rome. Led by American entrepreneur Paul Matiasic, the club adopted the name Basketball Roma SPQR and, together with the later acquisition of Germani Brescia, created Maxima Roma. The decision was formalized on June 26, 2026.
Why does the change matter for Italian basketball?
Rome will host two Serie A teams again, six years after Virtus Roma withdrew. The PalaEur, with a capacity of over 11,000 spectators, will become the new home arena, providing visibility and revenue for the sport. The project also includes EuroCup participation for Basketball Roma SPQR, expanding the capital's international offering.
What are the economic forecasts?
The group estimates an economic impact of about €24 million per year for Rome, covering direct investments, commercial and tourism spill‑over, plus sports‑event activity. The model follows the American sport‑entertainment approach already tried in Trieste with Pallacanestro Trieste.
| Team | New name | Season |
|---|---|---|
| Vanoli Cremona | Basketball Roma SPQR | 2026‑2027 |
| Germani Brescia | Maxima Roma | 2026‑2027 |
What to expect next?
The transfer leaves Brescia without a Serie A team, but opens the door to investments in youth talent, collaborations with local basketball entities, and social initiatives. With NBA interest in a continental competition, Rome could become a key hub alongside Milan.
How will it affect the European scene?
The return of two Roman teams arrives during a period of strong momentum for European basketball. Investors see opportunities in the new EuroCup and the potential NBA continental league, where Rome could play a leading role.
The Italian landscape is reshaping: Vanoli Cremona no longer exists, but its legacy lives on in the new Basketball Roma SPQR, ready to write high‑level basketball chapters in the capital.