The incredible words of Pau Gasol about Giannis Antetokounmpo

Pau Gasol reflected on the role of international NBA stars when they represent their national teams in FIBA tournaments. During an appearance on ESPN's NBA Today program, the 45-year-old former player described himself as a "different Pau" when playing for Spain, recalling conversations with Tony Parker and recent encounters with Giannis Antetokounmpo during EuroBasket 2025.

Gasol highlighted the passion of the Greek player, who considered the bronze medal won with his national team as the greatest achievement of his career, even surpassing the championship ring he earned with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021, where he was also named Finals MVP. "I love his excitement. I love how much he loves his country, the pride he feels, the dedication, and commitment he has to his national team," said the Catalan.

The former Spanish international emphasized the significance of wearing the national team jersey: "It's something special to play for your country. It's special to represent your people and fans everywhere, but especially when you do it with the national team."

Gasol, a two-time NBA champion and 2006 world champion with Spain, retired in 2021 after a successful career in both the NBA and the national team. In 2019, he briefly played for the Milwaukee Bucks, where he coincidentally played with Antetokounmpo and competed in his final three NBA games.

For his part, the Greek player recently secured his first international medal with the Greek national team and is gearing up for his thirteenth NBA season with the Bucks, the team that selected him as the 15th pick in the 2013 draft.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Las increíbles palabras de Pau Gasol sobre Giannis Antetokounmpo