ESP – Gasol intrigued by Ibaka Spain talk

MADRID (EuroBasket 2011) - Pau Gasol has expressed the opinion that Congo-born power forward Serge Ibaka would be a good addition to Spain's national team if he were to be granted citizenship.

Ibaka, now 21 and playing with Oklahoma City in the NBA, moved to Spain as a teenager and played with Club Bàsquet L’Hospitalet in the LEB (2007-8) and then Ricoh Manresa in the ACB (2008-09) before leaving for the Thunder in the 2009-10 campaign.

On Wednesday night, he blocked eight shots for the Thunder in their 111-103 victory at Minnesota.

He also had 10 points and five rebounds.

In September, Ibaka said he would, if asked, like to play for Spain's national team.

"Spain has done a lot for me and I want to do something in return," Ibaka said.

“The Congo is the past. Oklahoma is my work place, and Spain is where I live. My younger brother, Igor, is playing here in Manresa.”

His remarks were carried by hoopsleader.com

Gasol, who has taken part in a fan question and interview session with Madrid-based Marca, was asked about Ibaka and Spain's national team.

"He is a young player that is playing at a high level in the NBA and could help the national team a lot," said the Los Angeles Lakers star forward-center, who is the most famous player ever to wear a Spain jersey.

"I think it's good that he gets the nationality."

Spain will next summer try to defend their European title and qualify for the London 2012 Olympics.

FIBA