Serge Ibaka has been granted Spanish nationality, and will hoop for its national team at the European Championship next month. The AP reports: “Ibaka must swear loyalty to the Spanish crown and constitution to finalize the process after Spain’s Council of Ministers approved his petition for nationality on Friday". The 21-year-old was born in the Republic of Congo but played for Spanish clubs for three years before moving to the NBA in 2009. According to Spanish media reports, he maintains a residence in Barcelona.
"Today is a happy day for me. I am very proud to have the opportunity to return to this country what Spain have given me. I want to thank all institutions for all the help they have given me in order to make possible this moment, especially the Spanish Basketball Federation, its president Jose Luis Saez, Sergio Scariolo and all the colleagues who have helped and supported me in this process. Besides, I also want to thank my agents who have accompanied me all the in all the steps. Now I just hope I can help the team with all my strength. I’m looking forward to the day 27 to be with my team-mates of the National Spanish team", Serge Ibaka said this afternoon.