Boston Celtics reserve forward Hugo Gonzalez is looking toward his peers within the NBA to help shape the future of the Spanish National Team.
While Gonzalez faces off against his countrymen during professional play, he maintains a close bond with fellow NBA players who also represent Spain in FIBA competition.
His teammates include Oklahoma City Thunder big man Aday Mara, Dallas Mavericks guard Sergio de Larrea, and Los Angeles Clippers forward Baba Miller, as reported by Yahoo Sports.
In a recent conversation, Gonzalez expressed pride in the professional progress his teammates have made this season.
“I think they’re doing well. They’re having a great start to the season. Very well deserved, too, because I obviously know them all,” Gonzalez told EuroHoops.
He further emphasized the personal character of the group, noting that their shared history strengthens their chemistry on the international stage.
“Besides being very good players, they’re very good people, very good teammates; we have many memories together,” he added in the interview.
The Celtics forward believes that the individual growth of these players will yield significant benefits for the national program.
“Everyone is taking advantage of their opportunity, and that’s going to help the Spanish National Team a lot,” according to Celtics Wire.
Regarding the team’s long-term aspirations of winning a gold medal in the World Cup, Gonzalez maintains a high level of ambition.
He argued that the team must approach competition with the belief that they can achieve the highest honors.
“If we didn’t think about Spain going for Gold in the World Cup, we shouldn’t even play,” the forward stated.
Gonzalez believes that by focusing on a strong work ethic and internal confidence, the team can overcome any limits on their potential.
He expressed optimism that the current process will be a positive experience for the roster as they continue to play together for several years to come.