Spanish Dream Team Is a Basketball Power

“There is no better indication of Spain’s new stature as a basketball power than the huge Nike posters in nearly every Metro stop here. With menacing-looking teammates surrounding him, center Pau Gasol points his index finger assertively to the world. He is scowling and looks ready to rumble.

Around them is the proclamation, written in huge letters: “Ser Espa?ol no es ya una excusa. Es una responsibilidad.” (”Being Spanish is no longer an excuse. It’s a responsibility.”) Advertising hyperbole aside, the Spanish national team is the dominant story at the European basketball championship. It has crushed most of its opponents, urged on by a hyperventilating sports media and by adoring fans who have filled Madrid Arena.”

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