By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Following Brazil’s defeat at the hands of a dominant USA Basketball, it was all about emotions for the green-and-gold national team. And likely not for the blowout received by LeBron James and teammates, but due to Marcelinho Huertas’ last-ever game representing his country.
The 41-year-old icon, who decided to join the national team this summer only a week prior to the beginning of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Latvia, put an end to his 20-year career with the Seleção.
Right after his ultimate appearance with the Brazilian national team, FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis handed the game ball over to the legendary point guard, honoring him.
Participating in five World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2019, and 2023) and three Olympic Games (London 2012, Rio de Janeiro 2016, and Paris 2024), he was also able to win two AmeriCups (2005 and 2009), while collecting other two silver medals (2011 and 2022) in the same competition.
Following a crucial campaign in Riga to upset the Latvian hosts, the veteran playmaker also averaged 8.8 points and 5.0 assists per game at this year’s Olympic Games, helping Brazil reach the Quarter-Finals.
His national team career may have ended, but he won’t stop playing basketball. Indeed, Marcelinho Huertas recently signed a two-year contract extension with La Laguna Tenerife, continuing to go out on the court both in the ACB and in the Basketball Champions League.
Going only one win away from lifting the trophy at the latest Basketball Champions League Final Four in Belgrade, he was named MVP of the competition after averaging
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PHOTO CREDIT: FIBA Basketball