By MARK REY MONTEJO

NBA legend Pau Gasol joined other basketball players who expressed their gratitude for the warm reception he received during the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup that the country hosted.

Gasol, who was in the country as one of the global ambassadors of the event, showed his appreciation in a social media post on Monday, Sept. 11 by thanking the local organizers and the Filipino fans.

“So many special moments shared during these days in Manila, I can only be grateful for the pleasure it has been to be an ambassador of an extraordinary tournament!” Gasol wrote.

The former Los Angeles Laker, who also played for Spain, came to Manila with fellow NBA legend Carmelo Anthony on Thursday, Sept. 7, to watch the last stages of the games and was even part of the trophy presentation in the finals.  

“The level of play on the courts was spectacular, excellent teammates on Carmelo Anthony, Luis Scola and Sue Bird and an exceptional treatment from all Filipinos, which has made us feel at home. Thank you very much Philippines, thank you very much FIBA WC!” Gasol said.

Gasol spearheaded Spain in claiming its first-ever FIBA World Cup title in 2006 after routing Greece, 70-47, in Saitama, Japan.

He was named as the Most Valuable Player in that edition, averaging 21.3 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists in eight games.