“Eternal”, “legend” or “myth” were some of the qualifiers that slipped into the last tribute that Pedro Ferrándiz received in Alicante, in his city. Passed away in July of last year, the former Real Madrid coach received a warm recognition at the Teatro Principal in Alicante. Ferrándiz, a national and international legend, has formed basketball history for decades. 27 titles beheld him during his career, with four European Cups in his golden record. Already retired, Alicante always gave him excellent treatment. In his city, he has a pavilion named after him, a street, a chair, and it was named a few months ago. Favorite Son.
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In the tribute to Ferrándiz, his career was remembered, with the famous self-basting basket always in the background. Lolo Sainz, Emiliano Rodríguez, Juan Antonio Corbalán and Cristóbal Rodríguez, former players of the time, were present at a round table, moderated by the journalist Toni Cabot. He also thought Thomas Roncero, deputy director of Diario AS and personal friend of Ferrándiz.
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The speakers recalled the figure of Ferrándiz, a “legend” coach, capable of putting his name even in the NBA Hall of Fame. Emilio Butragueno, Director of Institutional Relations of Real Madrid, recalled the affection that Real Madrid fans and the world of basketball have always had for him. “It is an honor and pride that a figure so dear to all Real Madrid fans is remembered. The figure of one of the great legends after leading a legendary team. Neither Real Madrid nor basketball would have been the same without Ferrándiz. He revolutionized basketball nationally and internationally. He is one of the great myths of world basketball. A visionary and his legacy will be eternal, ”commented Butragueño, present at the Teatro Principal.
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Luis Barcala, mayor of Alicante, and Carlos Mazón, president of the Alicante Provincial Council, proudly witnessed the homage to one of the most “illustrious” from Alicante. “He was a pro from Alicante. We have to thank Ferrándiz because if there is a fan of basketball it is thanks to him. Pedro Ferrándiz was an icebreaker, an ambassador forever”, Mazón assured. Mayor Barcala closed the event.
