Ricky Rubio will continue wearing the Joventut jersey next season, with the Spanish club confirming the veteran guard’s return through an announcement on social media.
After stepping away from basketball for personal reasons, Rubio returned to the court in the summer of 2025 and chose to reunite with the club where his professional journey began.
The decision proved to be a successful one.
Rubio rediscovered his enjoyment of basketball in Badalona and quickly became one of Joventut’s most important players. Now, despite reportedly receiving interest from one of Europe’s biggest clubs, the 35-year-old has decided to remain loyal to the team he considers home.
Ricky Rubio remains a key player for Joventut
Rubio’s importance to Joventut was evident throughout the previous season.
In the Liga Endesa, the experienced point guard averaged 13.7 points, 3.4 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game, continuing to provide leadership, creativity and control from the backcourt.
He was equally important in the FIBA Champions League, where he posted averages of 13.4 points, 3.1 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game.
Despite turning 35, Rubio continued to perform at a high level and showed that he remains one of the most influential guards in European basketball.
His decision to stay represents a major boost for Joventut as the club prepares for another important season.
🫂@rickyrubio9#CityOfBadalona #ASISAJoventut #JoHiSeré pic.twitter.com/7eGShCmcIm
— Club Joventut Badalona (@Penya1930) July 30, 2026
Ricky Rubio reportedly turned down Zeljko Obradovic and Panathinaikos
Rubio’s future was reportedly linked with a possible move to Panathinaikos earlier this summer.
The Greek powerhouse are building an ambitious roster following the return of legendary coach Zeljko Obradovic, who began a new era in Athens after leaving Partizan.
According to reports, Obradovic wanted to bring Rubio to Panathinaikos and saw the experienced Spanish guard as a valuable addition to the team.
Panathinaikos were reportedly prepared to offer Rubio €900,000 for one season, but the Spanish star ultimately chose to remain in Badalona.
Rather than joining the ambitious project in Athens, Rubio decided to continue playing for the club where he first emerged as one of the greatest young talents in European basketball.
A special connection with Badalona
Rubio’s connection with Joventut goes far beyond basketball.
He first joined the club’s youth system as a teenager and became one of the most recognizable products of Joventut’s academy before beginning an extraordinary career that took him to the NBA and the Spanish national team.
After spending several seasons away from the game, his return to Badalona gave him the opportunity to reconnect with basketball in a familiar environment.
The latest decision confirms that the relationship remains just as strong.
Joventut have now secured the return of their leader for another season, while Rubio will continue bringing his experience, playmaking and unique style to the club where it all began.
