Jones averaged 8.5 points last season. WNBAE/Getty Images

Last season I played in Russia. Yes, I said Russia. Whenever someone hears that for the first time they all make the same face, as if to say, “What in the world were you thinking?” The five months I spent in Russia was a really good experience for me because now I find that I can adapt much better to different situations. Now I’m in Italy and I think I can appreciate this country and the experience even more.

The flight to Italy took only about 7 or 8 hours, therefore my adjustment time was not very long. The flight to Russia took what seemed like 24 hours and was really tough on me.

Since I’ve been here, I’ve learned and experienced a number of things. First, you all know that I love good food. I can truly say that the food here is amazing. Also, the land is beautiful. When driving down the highway, the land looks like a painting. Most of the land is used for agricultural purposes so it is very well groomed. I am in the city of Alessandria, which is in Northern Italy. From here we can drive about two hours and be in either Nice or Switzerland.

Well, I can only talk about two cities when it comes to the fans. I played for the University of Connecticut while in college and in Washington, DC during the WNBA season, so I have had great fan support throughout my career. It is different in Alessandria, Italy because although we have a good amount of fans, they are allowed to bring whatever they want to the games. They bring banners and posters, as well as very loud drums and noisemakers, unlike the ones we have in the United States. They are so loud that I cannot hear my Coach in the huddle or my teammates on the court. Also, I can’t really understand my coach yet because he doesn’t speak any English, but I am working on my Italian.

My teammates are really nice. We have two Americans and a player from Greece. Our Italian teammates are really helpful and always make sure that we are okay and know what is going on. Most of them do speak English, so that in itself is a huge plus. We are learning the language and have been working in some really good workbooks. We will begin our lessons with our teacher on Monday, so I am very excited about that.

Now, back to the food. You all know that I love good food and I can truly say that it is excellent. I will sum it up in one word “Dolce,” which means dessert. It is hard to be good out here because the dessert is amazing. I have been controlling myself and I refuse to gain any weight. I have got to stay away from the “Gelato meraviglioso,” which means wonderful ice cream. You see, I know a little Italian. But really, it so good that I have only had it once. Control, Control, Control.

Well, I’ve got to run, but I’ll write back soon and tell you more about my experiences in Italy.

Take care – Asjha Jones