By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Jonas Jerebko, the first Swede to play in the NBA, has returned to the court after a two-year hiatus. The 37-year-old signed a contract with the Puerto Rican team Santeros de Aguada, marking his first competitive basketball appearance since his time with CSKA Moscow in 2022.
The former 36th overall pick in the NBA draft showcased his skills by scoring 13 points and grabbing six rebounds alongside fellow former NBA player Chinanu Onuaku in Santeros’ 91-70 victory over Leones de Ponce. This marked his second game since signing, following an initial performance of six points and 12 rebounds in a loss to Cangrejeros de Santurce.
“That was so much fun being out there. God knows I put in a lot of work to come back and play. Everything happens for a reason; I’ve always believed in that. Whatever’s next, I’ll tackle with a smile with my friends and family behind me. Thanks to everyone who’s been sending me love these last couple of weeks! It means a lot. Puerto Rico is all LOVE and everything about it,” Jerebko expressed his joy on social media after the match.
Jonas Jerebko con 13 puntos y 6 rebotes en la primera mitad en Aguada 🔥🏀 #LaLigaMasDura pic.twitter.com/qwJQEtdfr8
— Baloncesto Superior Nacional 🏀🇵🇷 (@bsnpr) April 7, 2024
Reports suggest that the experienced Swedish forward has signed a contract for the 2024 season with Santeros de Aguada, offering him a full season ahead in the Puerto Rican championship.
Jerebko returns to the basketball scene after a tumultuous period following his stint with CSKA Moscow in 2022. His decision to join the Russian team amid the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine led to widespread criticism in Sweden. Subsequently, he was suspended from the Swedish national team and faced contract terminations from sponsors.
Reflecting on his decision in a previous interview with Reuters, Jerebko expressed regret, stating, “I regret it now, and if I could go back in time, I would not have done it.”
The Swedish athlete began his basketball journey with Boras Basket in his homeland before transitioning to Italy’s Angelico Biella in 2007. He then ventured to the NBA after being drafted in 2009, where he enjoyed a nine-season career, playing for teams like the Detroit Pistons, Boston Celtics, Utah Jazz, and the Golden State Warriors.
Jerebko’s return to basketball in Puerto Rico signifies a fresh start for the seasoned player, who remains eager to continue his career for “another few years if given the chance,” as he stated in last summer’s interview.