Sports writing, May 17 (EFE) .- The Spanish Ricky Rubio, of the Timberwolves, told EFE that the difficult season, both for the Minnesota team and for him personally, has “helped him to grow a lot, as a person and as player”.
Rubio, who immediately before the start of the season came to the Timberwolves after being transferred first unexpectedly from the Phoenix Sun to the Oklahoma City Thunder and a few hours later to the Minnesota team, acknowledged that the situation did not help him and it was difficult for him to adapt .
But he also admitted that having overcome all difficulties “has helped him grow a lot, as a person and as a player as well,” he explained to EFE.
“It has helped me understand other situations in the game that I was not used to. Also to be in personal situations due to the pandemic and breaking many routines. And that does not help a boy as structured as I am, who follows his routines before the games. They were all broken. But that has made me grow and understand a little more everything, “explained Rubio.
After the game that the Wolves played on Sunday night against the Dallas Mavericks, and that the Minnesotans won easily 136-121, Timberwolves coach Chris Finch explained to the media the importance that Rubio has had on the team and especially on Anthony Edwards, a “rookie” who is destined to become one of the biggest stars in the NBA.
Edwards, 19, who was No. 1 in the 2020 draft, is the leading candidate for the title of “rookie” of the year, after improving dramatically in the second half of the season.
Finch blamed Rubio for a key role in the explosion of Edwards, popularly known as “Ant,” who scored 30 points against the Mavericks, meaning the 19-year-old rookie has scored more than 20 points in 36 games this season.
“Ricky’s leadership has been instrumental in Ant’s development. He’s always encouraging him, he’s always talking to him. Before I came, they had already developed a connection. (Rubio) has been alongside Donovan Mitchell and Devin Booker. He’s seen the rise of these types of players, “said Finch.
“He knows what he can convey to Ant to help him. He’s been very supportive both off the court and in the media. Ricky has been playing basketball at a great level since he was 15. He knows what it’s like to be young and live up to high expectations, “Finch added.
In that sense, Rubio told EFE that it has been his experience that has allowed him to play that role as Edwards’ model. Rubio also recalled that when he came to the NBA at the end of 2011, precisely to the Timberwolves, he was one of the top five players in the draft.
“I have had very good examples and leaders throughout my career, especially for example my first year with Elmer Bennett at Joventut. And so many people who have accompanied me. It is knowing how to speak and from, my experience, knowing how to share it. Differences, I also came here to Minnesota among the top 5 in the draft and I think I can help from my experience, “added Rubio.
(c) EFE Agency