By John Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Pau Gasol announced via video that he won’t be able to help Spain in the 2019 FIBA World Cup. He simply confirmed the fact Sergio Scariolo recently discussed with Spanish media. However, the 38-year-old Spaniard forward added that he hopes Spain qualifies for the 2020 Olympic Games so he can proudly represent his country at Tokyo, Japan.
“I’ve already went through the worst part of the surgery. I’m now looking forward to recover and start working at the gym. However, my injury won’t allow me to be with the Spanish National Team at China for the World Cup. I wish the best of luck to the National Team” Gasol said.
“This summer is going to be difficult, because I would have preferred to be with the National Team” he continued and explained: “For me the National Team has always been important. I’m always very proud to compete for the National Team and achieve successes.”
Even without him, Spain is among the favorites for securing a spot in the Olympics and Gasol certainly hopes his National Team makes the cut this summer. “I hope we qualify for the Olympic Games, so I can be there with the National Team” he said.
“Due to my age, it’s normal for people to speculate I won’t be able to continue. I love what I do. I love playing and I want to extend my career. That’s why I went through surgery, to continue playing at the highest level, to be ready for the next season” he noted.
On how his injury affected his tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks, Gasol mentioned: “Things haven’t gone according to plan, but I’m still very involved with my team trying to bring my experience and leadership.”
He also discussed the Eastern Conference Finals regretting the fact he missed out on going against his brother. “I would have like to face Marc, but it wasn’t meant to be due to circumstances beyond my control.”
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