Pau Gasol, the man who came closest to sinking the “Dream Team”, has been appointed ambassador for the 2023 International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Basketball World Cup.
FIBA recently announced that it has appointed Gasol as its Basketball World Cup ambassador, following Luis Scola.
Gasol also served as an ambassador at the 2022 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup. Afterwards, he became the face for promoting the tournament at the Basketball World Cup and won the highest honor.
Gasol was the hero of Spanish basketball and the biggest competitor who threatened the dream team in international competitions. As the core of Spain’s golden generation, he participated in numerous international competitions and shed blood and sweat for his country.
Gasol, who has been at the top with the golden generation at the U-18 European Championship and the U-19 World Championship, has appeared on the adult stage since 2001 and topped the 2006 FIBA Basketball World Cup. MVP was also his share. At the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics, he won silver medals in every battle with the Dream Team, who were at the forefront to restore their honor.
There were no opponents in Europe. He led the team in 2009, 2011, and 2015, and won two MVP awards and three top scorers in the process. 메이저사이트
FIBA said, “Gasol was the best national team player during his playing days and until recently served as an ambassador for the Women’s Basketball World Cup. He is an advisor, investor and activist in basketball and all projects related to sports.”
Gasol said, “The Basketball World Cup is the hardest stage to win a trophy. To stand at the top, you need chemistry and teamwork with your colleagues,” he said.
Gasol’s joining as an ambassador, which marked a milestone in world basketball history, is of great significance. It is a step that adds dignity to the Basketball World Cup, which aims to become the most outstanding mega event beyond the Olympics.