Instant offense off the bench: Bruno Fitipaldo named MVP of the FIBA Intercontinental Cup

TENERIFE (Spain) - Lenovo Tenerife won their third FIBA Intercontinental Cup on Sunday, and in a gigantic team effort, it was Bruno Fitipaldo who made the difference off the bench, winning the MVP  award of the event.

The 31-year-old had 12 points, 6 assists and 4 rebounds in the Semi-Finals against US Monastir, and he was even more impressive in the Final, getting 15 points and 6 assists, leading the second unit on the floor and stopping any kind of run by Sao Paulo.

"It was a Cup that we wanted to win," Fitipaldo said after the Final.

 
"Last year was amazing, getting the {Basketball] Champions League trophy. I think we're a great team, I love playing for this team, and I enjoy every day in the court. I'm happy to get another trophy with my teammates."

It could've been Aaron Doornekamp, who had 13 points and 9 rebounds in the Final. It could've been Sasu Salin, he finished with 15 points. It could've been Giorgi Shermadini with 12 points in less than 20 minutes, or it could've been Marcelinho Huertas, who had 9 points and 5 assists, with a team-high +20 in the plus/minus department.

That's how deep this team is, because all of them would say the same thing as Bruno Fitipaldo - it's about the team, not about the individuals.

One trophy is already there in San Cristobal de La Laguna. Tenerife have a chance to win another one in the Spanish Cup next week, and they are looking comfortable in the Spanish League and the BCL, too.

"It's not easy to be the team who can win a championship every year. We have been lucky to be here, this atmosphere was amazing, the island deserves it - this is for all of them," Fitipaldo said, pointing his finger towards the packed stands.

Sao Paulo were a tough opponent for the hosts of the event. However, Fitipaldo had the know-how to defeat them, enjoying the South American flavor of basketball on the court. This being a worldwide event, it must have felt special for Fitipaldo's family to witness him receiving this big award.

"I grew up in South America, I came to Europe already as a professional, so I'm very happy I can say I represent Uruguay, to represent my country. Of course my family is watching, for sure they are very proud of me," he finished with a smile.

Fitipaldo joined Marcelinho Huertas and Mike Tobey as the previous FIBA Intercontinental Cup MVPs coming from Tenerife. Huertas won the award in 2020, Tobey lifted it back in 2017.

FIBA