Marc Gasol holds the distinction of being the first player in Memphis Grizzlies franchise history to receive the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award. Recognized for his contributions to the sport, he earned accolades ranging from the 2008 ACB Most Valuable Player honor to the 2015 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports during a career that spanned nearly two decades.
Early Development and Transition
Born in Barcelona in 1985, Gasol spent his teenage years in Tennessee while attending the Lausanne Collegiate School. He gained recognition as a high school player, securing the Division 2 Mr. Basketball title in 2003 with averages of 26 points, 13 rebounds, and six blocks per game. His high school jersey, number 33, was retired by the school in 2008.
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Upon returning to Spain, Gasol began his professional tenure with FC Barcelona in the Liga ACB, competing there from 2003 until 2006. He subsequently joined CB Girona. His performance with Girona resulted in his selection as the 2008 ACB Most Valuable Player, marking a high point in his early European career before he moved to the NBA.
Tenure with the Memphis Grizzlies
Although drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2007, Gasol joined the Memphis Grizzlies in 2008 following a trade. He established himself as a durable presence, setting a franchise record for rookie field goal percentage. By the 2012–13 season, he became a critical defensive anchor, helping Memphis maintain a league-low points-against average. He eventually surpassed 10,000 career points in 2017.
Championships and International Play
Gasol achieved ultimate success in 2019 by winning an NBA championship with the Toronto Raptors. His international record with Spain is extensive, including two Olympic silver medals and two FIBA Basketball World Cup titles. He has also secured two EuroBasket gold medals, alongside one silver and two bronze medals earned throughout his participation in the tournament.
Fast facts
- Born: 1985, Barcelona, Spain
- NBA Draft: 2007, 48th overall pick
- NBA Defensive Player of the Year: 2013
- ACB Most Valuable Player: 2008
- Princess of Asturias Award for Sports: 2015
- NBA Championship: 2019 (Toronto Raptors)
- Languages: Spanish, English, Catalan
Questions readers ask
Which NBA teams did Marc Gasol play for?
He played for the Memphis Grizzlies, the Toronto Raptors, and the Los Angeles Lakers.
What is his role at Bàsquet Girona?
He serves as the president of the organization.
Achievements
- NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award
- ACB Most Valuable Player
- Competed at the 2020 Summer Olympics
- Competed at the 2012 Summer Olympics
- Competed at the 2008 Summer Olympics
- 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup
- 2006 FIBA World Championship
- 2010 FIBA World Championship
- 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup
