Ex-'Bow Ostler takes aim at pro ball in Italy
By Dayton Morinaga
Advertiser Staff Writer
Troy Ostler is hoping to say buongiorno to professional basketball this week.
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Ostler, a star post player for the University of Hawai'i basketball team the past two seasons, will join Verona from Italy's Division I professional league this week.
Troy Ostler could earn $100,000 if he makes the basketball team in Verona.
"It's one of the best leagues in Europe," he said. "I'm really excited. This is probably my best opportunity so far."
According to agent Ben Pensack, the 6-foot-10 Ostler will play with Verona as an unpaid player for one week. If he is impressive enough, Ostler could earn around $100,000 as a contracted player for the upcoming season.
"Verona already has a big center, so they're looking at Troy strictly as a forward," Pensack said. "I think he'll be able to showcase his skills better that way."
Ostler has already had tryouts with teams from Japan and Lebanon , but Pensack said: "If he makes it, this is Troy's best option."
