Volevo essere Robin. Il mio viaggio fino a qui

At thirteen, the player who is now one of basketball’s most beloved stars is still a boy who doesn’t feel good enough and desperately searches for a way to become so. Awkward and overweight, at 121 kg (267 lbs) he is an easy target. His self-esteem plummets, while the number on the scale keeps rising. But Pippo does not know how to ask for help. He is the one who never causes problems, who tries not to draw attention to his vulnerabilities.
Secretly, he begins skipping meals—little by little at first, then more and more often—sliding into the dangerous spiral of an eating disorder. The only place where Pippo feels comfortable in his own skin is on the basketball court. He is talented with a basketball, a “rough diamond” who will eventually learn to shine. But champions are not born; they are made, and Pippo knows this well.
For someone who, in a world full of Batmans, feels like Robin—the loyal sidekick, always serving a greater good—the road ahead is steep. After his time with Stella Azzurra and his first professional experiences, basketball becomes his top priority. “Trust the process” becomes his mantra: believe in what you do and persevere. If you fail, go back to the gym and start again from scratch.

Looking back on his journey, Pippo recounts in this autobiography the fascinating path that led him to Olimpia Milano, through prestigious clubs, championship titles, World Cups, and Olympic Games. Along the way, there are thrilling victories and dark days alike. Every stage is marked by deep friendships and hard-earned achievements, but also by difficult moments, insecurities, and an obsessive pursuit of perfection.
It is a human and sporting adventure that extends far beyond the basketball court, leading him all the way to Tanzania, where he founded Amani Education ODV, and to the unexpected discovery of the need to forgive others—and himself.
Robin removes his mask, revealing the moving story of personal growth that shaped him into the champion he is today.