
NBA Rumor: Nicolo Melli Free Agency
15 rumors in this storyline

Melli, 30, made his return to Europe official in early July, way before actually considering potential NBA options for him. He spent the last couple of seasons in the NBA logging 108 games played between the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Pelicans. “I signed for Olimpia before the NBA free agency even began, so I made a clear choice,” he explained, “When I spoke to Coach Messina, what he offered me both individually and as a team won me over. That’s why I have no regrets. I am happy with my NBA experience, but I am also happy to be here, very motivated by the challenges that await us.”
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Olimpia Milano has reached an agreement for three years with Nicolò Melli, born in Reggio Emilia on January 26, 1991, 2.05 mt tall, power forward, coming from the Dallas Mavericks, but already an Olimpia player from the 2010/11 season to the 2014/15 season. “Nicolò has always been at the center of our thoughts, he is the right player, in his prime, a player we were looking for as the emblem of the team player on top of having unquestionable skills. To be able to bring him back, after six years and a great career abroad, is reason for us to be extremely proud. This is a happy day for all of us,” says general manager Christos Stavropoulos.
Nicolo Melli nearing a deal to play in Italy
Olimpia Milano is close to bringing forward Nicolo Melli back in EuroLeague. The two sides had been having long conversations for quite some time and, as Eurohoops has learned, they are now nearing a deal.
Milano has been making a big effort to acquire Melli and bring him back in the Forum after they parted ways in 2015. Following some recent talks last week, the Italian club was cautiously optimistic that an agreement will be reached and things are moving towards that direction.
Nicolo Melli wants to remain in the NBA
Nicolo Melli will consider his options and is expected to make a decision regarding his future after helping Italy in the approaching Olympic Qualifying Tournament, according to Eurohoops sources. Melli, 30, is set to become an NBA free agent. His focus remains on securing a contract to extend his NBA run past the 108 appearances so far between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Dallas Mavericks.
A return to Europe can become a reality. AX Armani Exchange Olimpia Milano is a possible destination but two more Turkish Airlines EuroLeague powerhouses have a strong interest in securing his services.
Italian team targeting Nicolo Melli
Olimpia Milano has made a great run this season in the EuroLeague, reaching the Final Four after a long hiatus and although the team fell in the semis to Barcelona in the final seconds, coach Ettore Messina keeps his eyes on the long-term project. The coach and his colleagues have had one addition in mind for a while and it seems as though the upcoming summer might be the one when a deal comes to fruition. According to Corriere della Sera, Messina would like to bring Nicolo Melli back to Europe and Italy. Milano is working on convincing Melli whose contract with the Dallas Mavericks expires later this summer.
Adrian Wojnarowski: EuroLeague power forward Nicolo Melli is finalizing a two-year deal with the New Orleans Pelicans, sources tell ESPN. Melli, 28, was the top scorer in the EuroLeague Finals for Fenerbahce last season.
Nicolo Melli: “I don’t rule out any possibility but I don’t like to talk about the future” Melli said. “It is great to draw interest from other teams (Real Madrid is one of the teams) but I did not talk with anyone. My agent and I will think about the future after the season talking with Bamberg. NBA? It is a dream. But it will depend on the offers because I love too much being on the court and playing” the Italian power forward added.
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