Pau Gasol paid a visit to the Canadian national team as they prepared to face Serbia in a crucial semifinal match, showing support for his compatriot Jordi Fernandez.
“Both teams are very talented, and the game could go either way. A victory for Canada wouldn’t be a surprise, but Serbia is also playing well, and Bogdan is doing what he does… They are strong. As for the Americans, they are the favorites, but they could lose if they approach the match too relaxed. I hope the best team will win, and we will soon find out who that is,” said Gasol.
Gasol also commented on the progress of Jordi Fernandez, who is the coach of the Canadian national team and someone he has known for a long time.
“I’ve known him since he was an assistant coach in Cleveland. He has made significant strides in his career, moving up the ranks in the league. He attended several training camps with the Spanish national team, spent multiple summers with us… He was in Denver, and now he’s in Sacramento. He’s growing and improving, and I’m very happy for him. He’s doing an excellent job trying to revitalize Canada’s national basketball team, and he will be a great coach.”
Gasol admitted that he would be supporting Canada in the semifinals due to his personal connection with Fernandez.
“It’s fair to say that. Personal relationships and connections with individuals involved in a franchise or team often make you want to support them more.“
