Rubio had an overload on his previously-operated knee, and the Spanish national team decided not to risk the player's health after an extended period of the guard being sidelined. The injury is not serious, head coach Sergio Scariolo noted.
The Spanish national team suffered the second loss in the first EuroBasket 2025 Qualifiers window against Belgium on Sunday. Additionally, Ricky Rubio did not play for the majority the second half.
Namely, the star guard picked up a minor injury, and the team decided not to risk anything, having Rubio's recent lack of game practice in mind.
"He did not play in the entire second half. He came off in the fifth minute due to a slight overload on his operated knee. Although it is nothing serious, but obviously at this moment in Ricky 's career, we have to be very cautious because he's been stopped for a very long time after a serious injury, and we must proceed with very cautious steps," Spain's head coach, Sergio Scariolo, explained in the post-game press conference.
In over 13 minutes of playing time, Rubio scored 4 points, all via free throws, missing his both field goals. He grabbed four rebounds, dished out three assists, but made three turnovers for 6 PIR.
Spain lost both Qualifiers matchups this week - first, against Latvia on Thursday, and now against Belgium.
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