Memphis Grizzlies center Santi Aldama had an interview with Marca where he revealed that Spain aims to win the medals in the Paris Olympics.
The 2024 Paris Olympic Games are just around the corner, and everyone's excitement is high. The Spain national team forward Santi Aldama is no exception, as he looks more than prepared for the next few weeks.
"Yes, it sounds cool," Aldama told Nacho Duke from Marca. "It's something I've been dreaming about for a while, but the other day, in the game against the Bahamas, when they substituted Rudy [Fernandez] and everyone gave him a standing ovation..."
"It's hard for me to accept it, but this moment has finally arrived, which is something everyone dreams of, and now we're lucky enough to experience it. I'm really looking forward to it," Aldama added.
Aldama is continuing his family's legacy, as his father Santiago also participated in the Olympic tournament.
"For him, it was the best experience of his career. At the Games, all the athletes are together, each celebrating with their country.
Also, my father was able to play against the Dream Team; he has legendary photos with Jordan, and that's impressive. You can play in a thousand tournaments, but the Games are unique.
There are always talks about differences between NBA and European basketball, and Aldama also gave his approach to that topic.
"Yes, there is a difference, especially in terms of space. In the NBA, the corner 3-pointer is a little closer than the one at the center. As for how you organize your defense, I think there is a certain change there. Also, in terms of the level of physical demand, what the referees allow the contacts," Aldama said.
"There are many things to adapt to. I think last year's World Cup was good for me to remember a little because I had not played basketball with FIBA rules for five years. In the Pre-Olympic tournament, it was the same, they were super physical, super competitive games. That's why in the Games, you can't take anything for granted or rule anything out," the Memphis Grizzlies forward continued.
Santi Aldama
| Team: |
Memphis Grizzlies Spain |
| Position: | PF |
| Age: | 23 |
| Height: | 213 cm |
| Weight: | 98 kg |
| Birth place: | Las Palmas, Spain |
The Spanish prodigy also highlighted the importance of veteran presence in their locker room.
"They [Rudy Fernandez and Sergio Llull] taught me values, which is what we always talk about. The values of the family put Spain before everything else. Above all, Rudy explains it to us in words, but just seeing the commitment he has had over the last 20 years, there is no need to even talk about it.
That is the most important thing: to continue everything that has led us to have such a good team over these years and to continue maintaining that culture, which is so important," Aldama explained.
Aldama is confident in Spain's chances for success, hoping it will be enough for a podium place.
"That's what we're going for, but it's complicated. We're not going to underestimate the opponents. We're all going to compete for our country, we're all going to win, and the first objective is to win a medal. That's clear," Aldama concluded.
