NBA veteran Ricky Rubio is set to rejoin FC Barcelona for training starting Tuesday, marking a significant step in his recovery from mental health challenges.
The announcement comes after Rubio took a break from his professional career last summer and officially parted ways with the Cleveland Cavaliers on January 4.
Expressing his readiness to return to the court, Rubio shared, “After many weeks working on my body and mind, I feel keen and strong enough to see how I feel with a ball in my hands.”
Having previously played for Barça from 2009 to 2011, the 33-year-old guard aims to contribute to the team’s training sessions without any obligations or disruptions to their ongoing season plans.
During Rubio’s previous stint with Barça, he clinched eight trophies, including two Copas del Rey, one Liga ACB (2010-11), and a EuroLeague title (2009-10).
In a heartfelt statement, Rubio expressed gratitude to FC Barcelona for the opportunity to train with them while emphasizing his appreciation for the support he received during his recovery journey.
Barcelona is currently sitting in the second place in EuroLeague with a 15-3 record. The team, led by first-year head coach Roger Grimau, is third in Liga Endesa with 14 wins and 6 losses.
