By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Immediately setting up a Jersey Retirement Night for Marc Gasol was a brilliant reaction by the Memphis Grizzlies to the recent decision to call it a day. Currently representing Spain in the franchise, Santi Aldama added praise regarding the veteran of 828 games played with the Grizzlies.
“He’s had a hell of a career. I can’t even describe it. Just watching what he’s done speaks for itself. For me growing up in Spain, seeing what he did, it’s really insane. He had a career that not many people have,” mentioned the 23-year-old big, “I really want to congratulate him and let him know that what he’s meant to me is incredible, and he’s inspired me for sure.”
In his third NBA campaign, Aldama is averaging 10.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.7 blocks, and 0.7 steals per contest, all projected career-highs.
“I loved his game, his IQ, everything,” he added on drawing inspiration from his fellow Spaniard, “I’m sad that he’s retiring but obviously that time comes.”
The Grizzlies will retire jersey no. 33 to honor their former player on April 6. “I’ll be here for the retirement ceremony. It is special for sure,” noted Aldama.
Losing to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the FedExForum reduced the W-L tally to 18-30 on Thursday, five games outside the Play-In zone of the Western Conference.
“We’re all learning. We’re young. We’re just trying to fight hard and I think we are doing that,” explained Aldama.
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