Eurobasket 2017 - Ricky Rubio talks about the rivalry between Spain and France
Ricky Rubio has followed the outcome of the 2017 draft, always seasoned by the rumors of his transfer from Wolves to other franchise. After six years there is no case for us. In a few weeks he will be involved with the Spanish national team for eurobasket, and answers questions about the rivalry between Spain and France. "What is your mood in a few weeks since returning to the National for Eurobasket?
I'm delighted to be part of this team that has done wonderful things in recent years. It may also be one of the last times that the "golden generation", led by Pau Gasol and Navarro, will be complete. If I have the chance to be with them again, I do not want to miss this opportunity.
Who can prevent Spain from winning again?
This may be a bit early to say it. There are very dangerous teams in the European Championship so we will be very vigilant. During the last two or three Eurobasket, we lost against Italy, Turkey, France. Our strength was to win at the right time. But I think France, Serbia and Turkey are a big name tank. I prefer to wait for the final rosters, as these countries have 20 potential players that can be included and see in what form different nations will arrive, then I will comment. Our goal is to get to the end, as always.
Could you leave France to win again before you close your career?
No! (laughs) We do not want anyone to win! They beat us during our World Cup in 2014 and then in Eurobasket 2013. They have already beaten us enough (laughs).
How would you describe the rivalry born with the French team?
By chance, we have often encountered key games, and for over ten years. I would say that it is a beautiful and healthy rivalry. For me it is great to be able to play against Tony Parker, who is one of my idols and able to compete against him! I did not have the chance to play, but I remember in 2015, in France, when Pau Gasol scored 40 points ... It was one of the greatest shows in history. It is with this type of racing that we have built a rivalry, and this is a good thing for basketball in general. France has so many talented players, not just Europeans, but globally. I think it's a very good thing to be able to face us every summer, allowing us to grow up our two national teams upwards.
Does rivalry stop once the game is over?
Yes, of course, we appreciate it! It's our common passion for basketball. I like to see playing talented players, regardless of their nationality. I saw Valencia play the other night, and Antoine Diot is currently at a very high level. I like to watch this kind of players. As I told you, Tony Parker is one of my idols and the ability to play against him in the NBA and in the international camp is something really great for me.