Exercise healthy leadership like that of Alba Torrens (Binisalem, 1989) is more difficult than the authoritarian. Feeling basketball to the last drop of sweat for two decades is something only available to a player who transcends his own titles. Although it is difficult not to be impressed with a record in which, among others, two Eurobasket, a European scepter that Spain remained at the gates of reissued in 2023.
Now, Torrens puts himself at the head of a selection in full generational transition, with Miguel Méndez on the bench, but with the illusion of competing every European match that will be played in the Czech Republic, Germany, Greece and Italy from June 18 to 29. The first Eurobasket for many, the seventh for a player who continues to feel the pressure of the first day, although he has learned to manage it. His stage is over in Valencia and does not have, right now, “any intention to retire.”
Someone for whom is to manage defeat as victory and whose skills, personal and sports, resides and the construction of the future of Spanish female basketball. And for success, there is only one recipe, that of the team above all individualities. In short, that of 'the family', a nickname that is more than a superficial nickname.
There are so many Alba Torrens' battles that it is difficult to surprise someone with your record and experience. But how do you feel being captain of a Spanish team that lives a generational transition?
I face the challenge with enthusiasm and eager. But not with illusion for being the seventh Eurobasket. It is a renewed feeling, which also gives me extra motivation for knowing that it is the first Eurobasket for many of my partners. Then, of course, there is the responsibility and commitment to try to give my best version in all aspects to add and help the team in this moment of change. Of course, the title is also in the spotlight.
I am very happy, because finishing my stage in Valencia with this league title has been wonderful. In addition, I am personally finding myself physically, with good feelings on the track
Personally, triumph or play a good role in the Eurobasket would be the culmination to a very good season for you, that has ended with the league conquered by Valencia Basket Club and at the same time with the end of your stage in the club. End of journey?
Yes, it would be a good year of basketball. I am very happy, because finishing my stage in Valencia with this league title has been wonderful. In addition, I am personally finding myself physically, with good feelings on the track. That is why I value the opportunity to be here, at the gates of playing a new Eurobasket, with everything that means this competition for me. Of course, we will go for it: to compete well and close the course in the best way. Right now I do not consider the withdrawal.
No Eurobasket is easy, but less this, with Germany, Great Britain and Sweden in your group. And, above all, with little margin of error so as not to be conditioned in the later table. What do you think will be the keys to the tournament?
We must be aware, above all, that we are facing a generational change. We are building a new team. You have to trust the process and have patience, not wait for everything to happen from one day to another. We, as players, will put as values the desire and the desire to do well and want to win each game. And that these intentions translate into daily work, for every day to be a bit better. The main objective, and that has to predominate above anyone, is to look for the best version of the team. And that this leads us to compete. Then we'll see.
Alba Torrens and Miguel Méndez, captain and Spanish coach, embrace after the defeat of Spain against Belgium in the JJOO. / Mark J. Terrill / AP
You are the first captain of the National Team, but you are well accompanied by other companions like Maite Cazorla O Raquel Carrera. How do you understand the exercise of leadership in a team like Spanish?
The work of a captain is to be both good and bad. After the defeats, the captains, but also the rest, we seek to be united. In the end a feeling of union is created. It is the time when you have to feel all emotions. After a defeat, the main feeling is of frustration, or even defeat, but it serves to get up better the next day. It teaches you what is the next step you have to take so that the pain does not weigh and we can manage it. It is important to feel, because feeling helps you manage. In sport and in life, there is always a new opportunity. You have to forgive defeats. An error always prepares you for the next game or step.
Was The defeat in the last Eurobasket against Belgium lastswhich also left you without Olympic Games in Paris, but it is also important to manage the victories, right?
I'm glad you ask me that question, because you also have to learn to win. When you win, it persists; When you lose, too. In the victories that reflection must also be made and see what has gone well and what can be improved. In the end, it is a continuous learning. I think it would also be a mistake not to learn from victories. It is as important to learn how to learn to win. It is important not to lose the focus of where you are going and be very aware that in the end you are not as good or as bad, as a team and as a person, for a result. We have to be aware of where we are, so that a defeat or a victory does not alter the way. The main objective is to give the best version and, if we do not get it one day, learn from it.
What I realize, in the end, is that I am in a constant process. It does not go that I am now more veteran, I do not feel the pressure and I do not get nervous, but to exert one and the other role with responsibility
What has changed in basketball since Alba Torrens stood out in the lower categories of the National Team, two decades later?
I think the sport does not change, the one you change is you. You are increasingly aware of savoring every moment and thanking every moment. Not therefore giving anything. You are increasingly aware that work and persistence are what has led you to get so much. And, above all, one is increasingly aware of the force of the team as a key to success.
So are you able to play more released with 35 years and with the palm tree you treasure? Or do you still feel the pressure?
I still feel pressure and responsibility. All I can say is that yes, I have learned to manage a little better. And not always. What I realize, in the end, is that I am in a constant process. It does not go that I am now more veteran, I do not feel the pressure and I do not get nervous, but to exert one and another role with responsibility. But you can improve as a player or as a person. When I can't manage it, I see that I can improve. Even at this moment of my career you can also pressure me sometimes. Although I try to be aware and improve the game by game.
Alba Torrens recognized Belgium's superiority throughout the meeting / FIBA
At this vital point, what is left to do now to Alba Torrens?
Right now I project in this Eurobasket. I realize that, in the end, the most important thing is what you are living in the present. For me there is nothing more special than these moments. That the appointment of this summer. The personal challenge is to continue enjoying what I like the most and, of course, in a professional way, working every day and adding in the team in which it is.
The last one, but surely more difficult for you … how would you define what it is 'The family' of the Spanish women's basketball team?
(There is a long silence that is recovered in the suspensive points)
Buf, this question touches my heart directly … I would talk about commitment, responsibility, to wear this shirt … and I say it very aware of what it supposes … I would talk to you about work, dedication … and here, yes, I would talk about equipment, friendship … and love! Love for what we do.
