TalkBasket

Ricky Rubio leaves nationwide staff return door open

September 24, 2025


Photograph: FIBA Basketball

Liga Endesa formally offered the brand new season in Madrid, with all golf equipment represented, on the identical day that Chus Mateo was unveiled as the brand new head coach of Spain’s nationwide staff.

Among the many gamers current was Ricky Rubio, who returned because the face of Juventut Badalona, the membership the place his skilled journey started.

Rubio is stepping again onto Spanish courts 20 years after making his debut at simply 14 years and 11 months previous.

Having spent final season away from the sport and formally ending his NBA profession, the veteran guard made it clear that he isn’t able to retire fully – and left open the potential for returning to Spain’s nationwide staff.

“It’s a great distance off, and I haven’t considered it as a result of I don’t understand how this season will go,” Rubio instructed Spanish outlet AS. “I’ve made plans earlier than with out having fun with them, and now I’m concerned in a really thrilling undertaking. I by no means shut any doorways, however we’ll see how the season unfolds.”

His feedback arrive within the aftermath of Spain’s disappointing EuroBasket marketing campaign, the place the defending champions did not advance to the Spherical of 16. Regardless of the setback, Rubio praised the staff’s resilience.

“We had a little bit of unhealthy luck on the EuroBasket, however the staff battled in opposition to Italy and Greece till the very finish. It was an important efficiency, regardless that the outcomes didn’t match it.”

Trying forward, Rubio expressed confidence in Chus Mateo main Spain by way of its generational transition.

“Chus Mateo is now the nationwide staff coach, a really skilled coach who is aware of the nationwide staff from the within out. And with Madrid, he’s gained much more expertise. It’s an thrilling time, with a renewal of generations.”



Steven is a passionate sports enthusiast and writer who enjoys sharing insights, stories, and analysis from the world of football and beyond. With a keen eye for detail and a love for the game, he brings readers closer to the action while keeping them informed and entertained.