ESP - Ibaka thankful for opportunities

KAUNAS (EuroBasket) – While some athletes train for their whole lives in an attempt to qualify for the Olympics, Serge Ibaka is one of the lucky few to do it on his first try as part of the Spanish basketball team.
 
On Friday evening Ibaka played a key role in his side’s semifinal victory over F.Y.R. of Macedonia, playing nearly 17 minutes off the bench to finish the game with 11 points, going five-for-seven from the floor. A place in EuroBasket’s final has earned Spain direct qualification to London.
 
The Congolese native has had a well publicized rise to fame, going from playing in the Spanish second division three years ago to becoming an NBA star, last season starting in 44 regular season games and a further 17 playoff games for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
 
Now at just the age of 21, Ibaka has just written another chapter into his biography by helping earn Spain direct qualification to the Olympics in just his first tournament playing for his adopted country.
 
“It is something amazing and really big for me and the dream is coming true. When I was young I was one day dreaming to play in the Olympics. This is just crazy. I thank God for giving me the opportunity to be here today. I’m so happy”, Ibaka told FIBA.
 
By the end of Sunday evening his biography may have yet another chapter as he and his team mates prepare to take on France in Sunday’s gold medal game at EuroBasket.
 
“For me to be here playing at this tournament is good for me. To play with all these great players is great for my future. I always dreamed one day to play for this team, the Spanish national team. Today I am grateful and I’m so thankful.”

FIBA