Rivero returns to Valencia with a one-month contract

Valencia Basket has reached an agreement with Jasiel Rivero, the Cuban international standing 2.06 meters tall, to join the men's professional roster with a temporary one-month contract. The player, born in Havana on October 31, 1993, arrives as a free agent after parting ways with Red Star Belgrade, the team with which he competed last season in the EuroLeague.

Rivero had already joined the first team's training on Monday, August 24, bolstering the sessions in light of the absences of players called up for their national teams. Now he formalizes his association to contribute during the preseason and the start of the official competition, bringing his experience during a critical phase of the season.

An Anticipated Second Stage

This addition marks Rivero's return to the taronja team, where he previously played for two seasons between 2021 and 2023. During that period, the Cuban became a key player, participating in 105 games with averages of 10.8 points, 4 rebounds, and a valuation credit of 12.2. His performance was recognized with two selections as MVP of the month in the Endesa League, in October and December 2022.

Rivero's journey before arriving in Valencia reflects a progressive rise in European professional basketball. After standing out in his native Cuba and playing in Uruguay and Argentina, the power forward arrived in Europe in 2019 with San Pablo Burgos. With the team from Castilla, he completed two seasons, contributing decisively to the conquest of two Basketball Champions League titles.

Consolidation in the Continental Elite

Rivero's performance in the 2020-21 season was particularly remarkable. He was named to the Second Best Team of both the Endesa League and the Basketball Champions League, which allowed him to make the leap to Valencia Basket. In his second season as a taronja, the 2022-23 season, he debuted in the EuroLeague, the top continental competition.

Since then, Rivero has maintained a constant presence in the EuroLeague, accumulating 93 games in this elite tournament. After completing his first stage in Valencia, the Cuban played two seasons with Maccabi Tel Aviv, where he averaged 8.4 points and 3.5 rebounds with 9.8 valuation credits.

Return After Stint in Belgrade

Last season, Rivero joined Red Star Belgrade, although a foot injury limited his participation. He only played 9 games in the EuroLeague, registering an average of 4.8 points and 1.7 rebounds. This situation left him available as a free agent over the summer, facilitating his return to Valencia Basket.

The temporary one-month agreement allows the team to have an experienced player in top-level European competitions. Rivero brings not only his offensive and defensive ability but also knowledge of the taronja playing system, having been with the organization before. His addition responds to the need to reinforce the rotation during a phase in which several players are attending international commitments.

Impact in the Preseason

The arrival of the Cuban power forward is especially relevant in the context of the preseason when teams are working on consolidating tactical schemes and group cohesion. Rivero, with his experience in the EuroLeague and his prior knowledge of Valencia Basket, can accelerate adaptation processes and elevate the competitive level of training sessions.

His profile, as a versatile interior capable of playing both offense and defense, makes him a valuable addition to the taronja roster. During his previous stint at the club, he demonstrated the ability to adapt to different playing systems and maintain consistent performance throughout the seasons.

Rivero's association also reflects Valencia Basket's commitment to maintaining competitive quality in a season that demands maximum levels of performance. His return represents an opportunity for the player to reconnect with a project in which he has already achieved both individual and collective success, while for the team it means having a reliable additional asset during a crucial preparation phase.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rivero regresa a Valencia con contrato de un mes