Few could have imagined last September that Flexicar Fuenlabrada, burdened by economic problems and a player exodus at the end of the previous season, would be on the verge of achieving a feat: qualifying for the Final Four for promotion to the Liga Endesa. Despite the defeat in the fifth and decisive quarter-final match against Súper Agropal Palencia (76-51) this past Friday, the team has shown remarkable growth and resilience in the face of numerous adversities.
The 'Fuenla's' season includes a commendable seventh place in the regular season, tied on points with teams like Alimerka Oviedo and Inveready Gipuzkoa, as well as their qualification for the Final Four of the Copa de España. This balance far exceeds the modest expectations with which the season began.
“"I think we have to savor what we have done and feel proud of this season. And if not, let anyone look at us last September and look at us now, how we were and how we are."
The head of the bench, Iñaki Martín, acknowledged the difficulty of ending the season with a heavy defeat but emphasized pride in the journey. "The human group we've had has been brutal," he stated, highlighting his players' dedication. "It bothers me to leave like this, but I have players who have given their all in all sorts of situations without a single complaint. We may have more or less skill, but I would go to the ends of the earth with these guys," he added.
Meanwhile, the CEO of Baloncesto Fuenlabrada, Borja Rupérez, reflected on the season in an open letter, calling it "exciting" and emphasizing the team's unity. "When you lose and you are full of pride and happiness, it means something wonderful has happened," he noted. Rupérez thanked the fans, the city council, sponsors, players, and staff, and praised Iñaki Martín as "an extraordinary human being, a fantastic coach," hinting at a commitment to his continuity for the upcoming 26-27 season, with the goal of making it "historic."
