Ricky Rubio announced on Saturday that he was going to be taking a break due to mental health. The move comes as his Spanish National team prepares to defend their FIBA World Cup title.
Rubio, who was the MVP for Spain four years ago, led Spain to an 8-0 record in the 2019 tournament. The veteran point guard was expected to Spain’s team this year as well.
“I have decided to stop my professional activity to take care of my mental health,” Rubio said in a statement distributed by the Spanish Basketball Federation, or FEB. “I want to thank all the support I have received from the FEB to understand my decision. Today #LaFamilia makes more sense than ever. Thank you.”
Rubio has asked that his “privacy be respected so that I can face these moments and be able to give more information when the time comes.” Ricky Rubio left the teams camp for Mental Health reasons earlier this week.
With the FIBA World Cup set to begin at the end of this month, the team has started to play exhibition games. They won their first game 87-57 over Venezuela on Friday. They’re set to play of a pair of games in Malaga, Spain next week, including an Aug. 13 matchup against USA. The latter is ranked No. 2 behind the reigning champions heading into the FIBA World Cup.
The 32-year-old was the oldest and most experienced, by NBA years on the Cavaliers roster. He has played in the league for 12 seasons, appearing with Minnesota, Utah, Phoenix and the Cavaliers. There was a two-year span where Rubio only played 33 games combined due to an ACL tear.
The Spanish federation said it “wishes to express its respect, admiration and affection for Ricky Rubio. #LaFamilia will be by the player’s side at all times.”
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