As expected, Ricky Rubio made his comeback on the courts with Spain. It was against Latvia last night, as part of qualifying for EuroBasket 2025, in Zaragoza.
Absent for many months to take care of his mental health, the 33-year-old leader was even a starter for Sergio Scariolo's squad. And if he was clumsy with his shooting (2/11), he quickly proved that he had lost none of his vision, to finish the match with 11 points and 5 assists, in 20 minutes on the field.
His points at the end of the match almost helped La Roja to overthrow Latvia, but it was the latter who won (79-75), behind a very good 10/22 at 3-points.
“This first match after such a long absence obviously seems promising. Of course, there were a lot of mistakes and some lethargy, but he tried to help the team and enjoyed being on the pitch.” appreciated Sergio Scariolo. “Again, we're talking about a player who hasn't played in almost a year, and if you factor in the previous injury, that's ten real games in two years. He's got a spark in him, great instincts, and he looks good. I hope these matches will give him the rhythm to start at club.”
Ricky Rubio indeed relished this return to the field, despite the final defeat.
“I felt like a rookie again, I was very nervous. It's like learning to ride a bike again. It will be difficult, but I am happy. My love for basketball has always been there. It's faded a bit, and now I need to dust it off a bit and enjoy this beautiful game again.”he concluded.
Photo credit: FIBA.com
