Rudy Fernandez bids an emotional farewell to Real Madrid's WiZink Center, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming recognition.
On Monday night at the WiZink Center, Real Madrid legend Rudy Fernandez may have bid farewell to his home court. The next showdown moves to Murcia, with Game 4 slated for UCAM's territory as well. The series will return to Madrid only if a Game 5 is necessary.
| Player of the Game | |
|
EFF
20
|
| Rudy Fernandez | |
| Points | 14 |
| Accuracy | 5-5 |
| Rebounds | 6 |
| Assists | 1 |
As such, Fernandez received a heartfelt tribute in Game 2. The fans serenaded the 39-year-old Spaniard with chants of his name, stirring emotions that were hard to contain.
Following the game, Fernandez addressed the crowd and acknowledged the possibility of one more game on home turf.
"This isn't over yet," he shared with Movistar+. "There might be one more game, though I hope not to return to Madrid for Game 5. Murcia is a great team."
"There are a lot of emotions today. I leave with the feeling of having done a good job and given everything," Rudy said. "The recognition is incredible, and I thank the people who have helped me.
"There have been many years here," he continued. "There have been many battles, titles, and defeats together, but I take this with me. I made the best decision by coming here, and I thank all the people who made it possible. I'll take this with me for life."
For Fernandez, it was a fitting tribute. In just 14 minutes on the court, he delivered a stellar performance, tallying 14 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, and 20 PIR, matching his season's best.
The Spanish finals series heads to Murcia for the third and potentially final game on Wednesday at 20:30 CEST. Real is eyeing their 15th ACB title, while Barcelona is a current record-holder with 16 domestic championships.
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