Meet Gea Uguccioni, a pioneering basketball skills trainer whose relentless pursuit of excellence is helping players unlock their potential and achieve their dreams.
In this exclusive interview, the Italian trainer shares the intricacies of her journey, from humble beginnings as a young athlete in her hometown to her current role as a certified I’m Possible Skills trainer. Gea offers insights into the transformative power of meticulous skill enhancement and her unwavering commitment to the pursuit of greatness.
Question: Tell me about your story.
I’m 26 and currently reside in East Moline, Illinois. I was born and raised in Pesaro, Italy.
I began playing basketball at the age of 11 after enjoying various sports during my childhood. Despite not coming from a particularly sporty family, basketball gradually captured my interest. I played for my hometown team, Olimpia Basket Pesaro until I was 16.
At 14, I started dreaming of playing college basketball in the US and eventually working as a basketball skills trainer. However, at that time, the team I played for encountered several challenges. Consequently, I decided to focus on individual training, eventually leaving the team two years later. With limited basketball knowledge at a young age, I embarked on a journey of self-improvement, researching ways to enhance my skills.
In 2013, I stumbled upon I’mPossible Skills Training while browsing the internet. Impressed by their innovative methods, I delved into their techniques, particularly drawn to their extreme attention to details. Despite my limited English knowledge at the time, I diligently studied their methods, gradually improving both my basketball skills and language proficiency.
From ages 15 to 19, I dedicated myself entirely to improving my skills, aspiring to play college basketball in the US and eventually become a trainer.
In July 2016, I had the opportunity to interact with the women’s basketball team from Augustana College during their visit to Italy. Impressed by my skills and work ethic, their coach facilitated connections that eventually led to my enrollment at Black Hawk College in Moline, Illinois, in 2017.
Subsequently, I immersed myself in various training programs, including sessions with Jordan Delp, and attended annual I’mPossible skills training conferences across the US. Additionally, I collaborated with NBA skills trainer DJ Sackmann in Vienna, Austria, in July 2019.
In 2020, I earned my associate degree in Science from Black Hawk College, followed by a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Western Illinois University in 2023. Presently, I am enrolled in the Sport Management Master’s program at Western Illinois University. Today, I am proud to be a certified I’mPossible Skills Training trainer, having completed rigorous courses and examinations. Notably, I am the only female certified skills trainer from Europe, among a select group of professionals worldwide.
Question: How did your passion for basketball come to life?
Basketball holds a special place in my heart, although I cannot pinpoint the exact reason for my passion. It resonates deeply with my identity, fueling a constant drive within me.
As an inherently competitive individual with a penchant for studying intricate details, basketball skills training naturally appealed to me.
Q: Who was your role model when you were a kid?
During my teenage years, Sue Bird was my idol. Despite the limited visibility of women’s basketball in Italy, Bird’s prowess during the 2012 London Olympics captivated me. Her stature as the smallest player on the court, yet one of the best, resonated with me.
Q: Who’s your inspiration today?
While I do not have a specific individual who inspires me today, I admire the increasing popularity of women’s sports globally. I hold admiration for coaches such as Lisa Bluder and Sarina Wiegman, who prioritize player development and foster a familial atmosphere within their teams.
Q: Who’s the person who’s helped you the most?
Without a doubt, my mother has been my greatest support. Despite initial skepticism, she stood by me unwaveringly, offering invaluable encouragement and assistance throughout my journey.
Q: Why did you start doing this job?
My involvement in basketball skills training stems from a deeply ingrained passion that has defined my identity since adolescence. It is not a just a job: It embodies an integral aspect of who I am. The impact of skill enhancement on a player’s career is profound, yet often overlooked, making this pursuit immensely rewarding.
Q: Tell me about your American dream.
The allure of the US lies in its fervent basketball culture and abundant opportunities for career advancement. Additionally, the presence of I’mPossible Training in the US aligns conveniently with my aspirations.
Q: Your secrets for success?
Success is multifaceted, encompassing attributes such as diligence, expertise, and consistency. American society values individuals who excel in their respective fields, underscoring the importance of continuous improvement and resilience.
Q: What’s the winning weapon in basketball?
Versatility reigns supreme in basketball, with a player’s adaptability often correlating with success. As an I’mPossible Skills trainer, I prioritize equipping players with a diverse skill set, enabling them to thrive in various game scenarios.
Q: Who’s your favorite player?
Caitlin Clark stands out as my favorite player, admired for her comprehensive skill set and on-court prowess. I loved her character and style of play even when she was much less famous than she is today.
Q: What’s your biggest talent?
My determination and curiosity propel me forward. I embrace challenges eagerly, constantly seeking opportunities for growth and learning.
Q: Your career goal?
My ultimate ambition is to establish myself as one of the most recognized basketball skills trainers globally, facilitating player development on a global scale.
Q: Your advice for people who dream of living in America?
Persistence and resilience are indispensable virtues on the path to realizing the American dream. Embrace challenges with fortitude, knowing that success often demands patience and perseverance.
Q: Relationship of Americans with Italy? What do Americans love about Italy?
Americans hold Italy in high regard, captivated by its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty.
Q: Your message through your work?
My work emphasizes the significance of very meticulous skill development in basketball, an often underestimated aspect of player improvement. Through focused, detail-oriented training, players can elevate their performance on the court significantly.
Favorite quote:
“Success is not the absence of failure, but the persistence through failure.”
Your mindset:
My mindset revolves around perseverance and gratitude, embracing both challenges and triumphs along the journey.
Q: What makes you special?
My dedication to continuous learning and collaboration with esteemed mentors distinguishes me as a basketball skills trainer. I am committed to nurturing talent at all skill levels, fostering growth and development within the basketball community.
