# Formation of SPQR Roma basketball club

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/formation-of-spqr-roma-basketball-club
> Updated: 2026-08-19T16:43:53.000Z. Sources: 31. Developments: 2.

The formation of SPQR Roma, a new Italian basketball club co-owned by NBA star Luka Dončić and executive Donnie Nelson, has progressed from initial recruitment negotiations to the unveiling of its inaugural roster.

In late July 2026, the club was in negotiations to sign NBA forward Wendell Moore Jr., who reportedly favored the Roma offer due to a favorable NBA-out clause. Following the acquisition of a sports license from Vanoli Cremona, the club officially unveiled its team in August. 

SPQR Roma is set to compete in Italy’s top league and the EuroCup, where they have been placed in a group with Monaco, Fenerbahçe, Manresa, Ulm, and Lietkabelis. The roster includes players with NBA and EuroLeague experience, such as Montrezl Harrell, Paul Watson, and Jesse Edwards. The management structure includes Donnie Nelson and special advisor Sergio Scariolo.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-19: Luka Dončić hosts Los Angeles Lakers team retreat in Slovenia

Luka Dončić is hosting a private five-day retreat in Slovenia for the Los Angeles Lakers to build team chemistry amid ongoing ownership transitions and roster changes at the franchise.

31 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/roma-spqr-unveils-inaugural-basketball-team-supported-by-luka-doni

### 2026-07-27: Wendell Moore Jr Nears Deal with SPQR Roma, Luka Dončić‑Owned Team

NBA forward Wendell Moore Jr is close to signing with SPQR Roma, the Italian club co‑owned by Luka Dončić and Donnie Nelson, favoring its offer over a Serbian side.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/wendell-moore-jr-nears-deal-with-spqr-roma-luka-doniowned-team

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Cite as: Formation of SPQR Roma basketball club. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/formation-of-spqr-roma-basketball-club