The Times Herald (Norristown, PA)

DiVincenzo can hook up dad, a Bucks fan, with new gear

Former Villanova hero just looking to fit in

- By Genaro C. Armas

MILWAUKEE » Former Villanova star Donte DiVincenzo’s dad can dust off the old Milwaukee Bucks jerseys he used wear as a fan while he was growing up.

DiVincenzo will be able to hook his father up with some new gear soon, too.

The Villanova guard was formally introduced Monday in Milwaukee at the Bucks’ downtown training facility. The team drafted him last week in the first round with the 17th overall pick.

The 6-foot-5 DiVincenzo gives the Bucks another 3-point shooter with size and toughness in the backcourt, skills that should fit well with All-Star forward Giannis Antetokoun­mpo’s game.

The No. 9 Bucks jersey with DiVincenzo’s name on the back will soon become the prized piece in the jersey collection belonging to his father, John. An old Ricky Pierce jersey was a favorite.

“I was seen in a Bucks jersey in Philly in my later years. I had mustard all over me. I don’t know if you’re familiar with how they roll there,” the elder DiVincenzo said with smile at the Bucks’ downtown training facility.

His son gets a clean start in the NBA following a distinguis­hed college career.

DiVincenzo was a key member off the bench for Villanova’s national championsh­ip team, scoring 31 points and hitting 5 of 7 from 3-point territory in the title game against Michigan, along with five rebounds, three assists and two blocks. The Big East’s sixth man of the year also impressed at the combine with his 42-inch vertical leap, displaying athleticis­m that scouts crave.

A willingnes­s to come off the bench and succeed in that role helped set him apart.

“It’s just something that’s pretty unique to have a young man who’s willing to do that and make those sacrifices,” Milwaukee coach Mike Budenholze­r said. “I think Donte will learn, whatever role it is, however it plays out.”

DiVincenzo said the adjust-

 ?? MORRY GASH — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS ?? Milwaukee Bucks NBA basketball team first-round draft pick Donte DiVincenzo poses for a picture with head coach Mike Budenholze­r, right, and general manager Jon Horst at a news conference Monday in Milwaukee.
MORRY GASH — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Milwaukee Bucks NBA basketball team first-round draft pick Donte DiVincenzo poses for a picture with head coach Mike Budenholze­r, right, and general manager Jon Horst at a news conference Monday in Milwaukee.

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