The first match of Spain’s FIBA journey is a game against the Ivory Coast, taking place today. Spain is a strong contender due to their stellar record, which includes an 8-2 victory in the FIBA Europe qualifying rounds and an extraordinary point difference of +120. Spain, being the defending champion, comes in second to the United States to win the FIBA Cup.
Meanwhile, having starred in Adam Sandler?s Netflix hit, Hustle, Juancho Hernangomez gained his entry into the entertainment scene. And now, he, along with his brother, Willy Hernangomez, will play for the FIBA Spain team. Let’s have a closer look at how crucial Juancho Hernangomez is for the Spanish team.
Juancho Hernangomez – Spain’s core player
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The basketball team from Spain is preparing to defend the crown it won in China four years ago. Sergio Scariolo’s team is still a force to be reckoned with. They’re armed with a combination of experience and skill that places them as strong candidates for the championship. And this stands true for them even when they do not have a lineup filled with recognizable NBA names.
However, Ricky Rubio’s retirement news was quite a shocker. The experienced NBA maestro was instrumental in Spain’s victories in the 2019 FIBA World Cup and the 2022 EuroBasket. He stated his desire to concentrate on his mental health and retire. With the void left behind by his departure, Juancho Hernangomez is one player whose contribution could be significant.
Juancho Hernangomez has quietly established himself as a key player for Spain in international events, despite not being an NBA superstar who draws attention.
Hernangomez is a versatile big man, well-known for his 3-point shooting, rim-running prowess, and strong rebounding. Despite the sporadic playing time he experienced during his NBA career. Hernangomez’s skills shine clearly on the international stage. Hernangomez’s recent season with the Toronto Raptors, where he played in 42 games, has left its impact on his route to the World Cup.
Hernangomez may not have the same star power as some of his NBA competitors. However, his constant performance on the floor and his capacity for carrying out crucial duties make him a valuable member of the team. He flawlessly carries out the behind-the-scenes tasks that fuel the success of the Spaniards, making him a dependable team member. Hernangomez also sets a good example for the team, with his calm demeanor under pressure, even when facing the most talented opponents.
Meanwhile, his talent extends beyond the court as he has even starred beside Adam Sandler.
Juancho Hernangomez starred in Hustle
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Adam Sandler’s Netflix blockbuster, “Hustle”, which launched in June 2022, rapidly rose to the top of Netflix charts. The actor who co-stars with Sandler in the movie, none other than Juancho Hern?ndez, is an intriguing component of the picture. Hern?ng?mez makes his acting debut as Bo Cruz, a feisty Spanish basketball player who, Sandler’s character Stanley Sugarman, a scout for the Philadelphia 76ers, discovers.
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For the basketball scenes, director Jeremiah Zagar was looking for a skilled actor who could portray Cruz authentically. He struck gold when he found Hern?n G?mez. Along with keeping up with the comedic superstar Sandler, Hern?n G?mez also commands the screen with a compelling presence. Interestingly, the movie features cameos and performances from a star-studded cast, including Anthony Edwards, Dirk Nowitzki, and Boban Marjanovic. LeBron James also joined the film’s production team as a producer, heightening the appeal and anticipation.
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Meanwhile, as Juancho Hernangomez & Co. takes on the Ivory Coast, who are you rooting for? Let us know in the comments below!