Career: Treviso (Italy-Lega, 1992-95), Padova (Italy-Legadue, 1995-96), Treviso (Italy-Lega, 1996-2005), Barcelona (Spain-ACB, 2005-06).

With the national team renewal in progress, there's loads of talk that Coach Recalcati will offer just one of his veteran centers a spot for Japan. And Marconato seems to have better chances than his long-time friend - but this time rival - Roberto Chiacig. Born in Treviso, Marconato's mother took him to "La Ghirada" (the sports center owned by the Benetton organization) to make him a volleyball player. But the basketball coaches found him first.

Denis has an excellent shooting touch from five meters and closer, making him effective in both pick-and-roll and pick-and-pop situations. Marconato also seems to have a sixth sense for offensive rebounds and tip-ins. With Benetton, he won 13 trophies. And this season he helped FC Barcelona to the semifinals of the Euroleague in his first year of a three-year deal.