Marc Gasol Sáez is a renowned Spanish former professional basketball player whose remarkable career spanned over a decade in the NBA and significantly contributed to international basketball. Starting his professional journey in Spain with FC Barcelona, he made a name for himself by winning the ACB Most Valuable Player award in 2008 and helping his team secure a Spanish ACB League title in 2004. Gasol’s exceptional talent caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his selection by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2007 NBA Draft.
Gasol’s professional NBA career began with the Memphis Grizzlies in 2008, where he quickly established himself as a core player. Over 11 seasons with the Grizzlies, he developed into one of the league’s premier centers, marked by his pivotal role in leading the team to the playoffs. Gasol earned three NBA All-Star selections and was honored as the NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2013, marking a significant milestone as the first player in the franchise’s history to receive this award. He was also named to the All-NBA First Team in 2015, showcasing his versatility and consistent performance.
In 2019, Gasol achieved the pinnacle of success by winning an NBA championship with the Toronto Raptors. His contributions were vital in securing the title, making him part of a historic duo with his brother Pau Gasol, as they became the first brothers to win NBA championships. After a brief return to the Lakers, he concluded his playing career with Bàsquet Girona, the club he founded, where he led the team to its first promotion to the Liga ACB.
Gasol’s international career with the Spanish national team is equally impressive. Since 2006, he has been instrumental in securing two FIBA Basketball World Cup titles and multiple medals, including two Olympic silver medals and a gold medal at EuroBasket 2009. Recognition of his achievements includes being named to various All-Tournament teams, cementing his legacy as one of Spain’s all-time basketball greats. Now serving as president of Bàsquet Girona, Gasol continues to contribute to the sport, overseeing the development of future talents and promoting basketball at grassroots levels.