Ricky Rubio admits he feels like a rookie again ahead of his return / News - Basketnews.com

Ricky Rubio prepares for an emotionally charged comeback in the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Qualifiers, expressing both nervous excitement and a rookie-like spirit.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Ricky Rubio is about to make his return to the basketball court after dealing with mental health issues since last summer.

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The comeback is set to be in the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Qualifiers game in Zaragoza on Thursday, where Spain will face off against Latvia.

Expressing a mix of excitement and nerves, Rubio likened the feeling to that of a rookie.

"With all the nerves, I almost feel like a rookie again," Rubio admitted, via Mundo Deportivo. "However, the truth is that I was very excited to return to the national team. It's where I left off. Here in Zaragoza, we have played a few times, and fans have always been dedicated to the national team. There is a lot of basketball in this city, so it's an ideal place to return."

Grateful for the unwavering support he has received during his challenging period, Rubio also acknowledged the backing from the basketball community.

"I haven't felt alone during this time," he noted. "Everybody has been very supportive, both in the national team and in Cleveland and, in general, in the world of basketball. That has helped me a lot in such a difficult time."

Looking ahead to the upcoming challenges, Rubio shared his thoughts on the games Spain faces in the lead-up to the Paris Olympics. Spain is slated to host one of four Olympic Qualifying Tournaments in Valencia in July to secure a spot in the upcoming Olympic Games.

"The Pre-Olympic is going to be nice. Let's hope it has a happy ending. But first, we have this test for the EuroBasket 2025, and they [Latvia and Belgium] are two high-level teams, who in the past have given us problems," Rubio analyzed. "We will have to give our best to come out with the victory and also a good feeling so that this summer the process is faster than normal."

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