“Ricky Rubio is a different breed when playing for his country”: NBA Twitter goes crazy after the 2019 FIBA World Cup MVP puts up 38 points in Spain’s quarterfinals loss to Team USA at Tokyo 2020

Spanish guard Ricky Rubio’s incredible 38-point performance went in vain, as Team USA managed to defeat the defending World Cup winners 95-81 in their quarterfinals encounter.

Ricky Rubio is a mediocre guard in the league with a lot of experience under his belt. Over the course of his 10-year NBA career, Rubio has proven to be an efficient starting guard on any team he is on. This past season, Ricky was acquired by his former team Minnesota Timberwolves and he had the worst season of his career. Putting up career-lows in points (8.6) and rebounds (3.3), the 6-foot-3 former 5^th pick had a very underwhelming season on an underperforming Timberwolves team.

However, when playing for his national team, Rubio turns into a different player altogether, levelling up his game to another level. The 2019 FIBA World Cup MVP was on a tear playing his 3^rd Olympic Games. Being the best Spanish player currently, Rubio averaged an amazing 21.3 points, 7.3 assists and 3.3 rebounds in the group stages of the Tokyo Olympics.

Unfortunately, Spain had to face defending Olympic gold medallists – Team USA as their tough quarterfinals matchup. The game was more or less neck to neck, with both teams tied at 43-apiece at the half. However, Team USA ended up closing the game strong, grabbing a huge 95-81 to end the current World Champions’ Tokyo campaign.

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NBA Twitter reacts to Rick Rubio’s incredible 38-point performance in a 95-81 loss against the USA

Ricky had yet another incredible night, putting up a whopping 38 points, to go along with 4 rebounds and 2 assists, on an impressive 65/57/100 shooting splits. However, his stunning performance was eclipsed by Kevin Durant’s 29-point night, helping his national team qualify for their 19^th consecutive semi-finals appearance at the Olympics.

NBA Twitter went crazy as soon as Rubio finished the night with 38 points. While a few fans were shocked by this incredible performance, others simply hated on him for not playing like this in the NBA.

Also Read: NBA Twitter reacts to 95-81 victory, with Kevin Durant guiding Team USA with 29 points

Sadly, Spain, who had been finishing on the podium since the 2008 games, is now eliminated. As for Team USA, their quest for a fourth straight gold medal continues as they move a step closer to their goal. Gregg Popovich’s boys will now face the winner of the Australia-Argentina matchup for a shot at the finals.