Spain forward Pau Gasol admits that individual accolades are nothing without winning Eurobasket.
Gasol reached the Eurobasket scoring summit with 4:57 left in the second with a contested three-pointer. He ended with 20 points in a convincing 87-64 win over Hungary.
“First of all, I’m happy and thankful to be able to do something outstanding,” said Gasol at the post-game press conference.
“It means I have great coaches, have been part of great teams and this is something I’m thankful for.
Gasol, who began his international career in 2001 is adamant that his ultimate goal is to retain the Eurobasket title and their fourth crown in five years. They meet either hosts Turkey or Latvia in the second round and are considered favourites to win again.
“We’re here to win championships and medals and this is our goal,” Gasol said. “To continue to move forward and get closer to our goal. This is nice but we have come here to win the EuroBasket title and this is what we have to do moving forward.”
“First of all congratulations to Pau,” added Spain coach Sergio Scariolo.
“It has been an honour and learning process to coach him in many championships. Everyone learns from his approach to the game, his professionalism, his ability to be a team player. Overall I’m really proud and delighted to accompany Pau in this event.”
Spain’s path to the round of 16 has been dealt a blow as they will be without Alex Abrines for the remainder of the tournament.
After suffering a minor knee injury in the first game of the tournament against Montenegro, the Spanish Federation and Abrines’ club side the Oklahoma City Thunder have agreed that he should sit out in preparation for the new NBA season.
