Just five and a half years ago, Joaquín Colom Barrufet, also known as Quino Colom, stood on a podium in China, celebrating one of the most significant titles in Spanish basketball history: the 2019 World Championship. This moment was a testament to his hard work and dedication, making him a true role model for aspiring athletes. Colom was part of the 12 Beijing Heroes who achieved the second World Cup in Spain, alongside other legendary players like Marc Gasol, Ricky Rubio, Sergio Llull, and Rudy Fernández.
Quino Colom (1) On the left, on the podium with Spain in 2019.
Fast forward to the present, and Quino Colom has decided to end his career, announcing his goodbye with an emotional video on social media. His professional journey began in 2006-07 with Cai Zaragoza, and he played his last campaign in 2024 with Bàsquet Girona. Without a team this season, at 36 years old, Colom hangs up his basketball shoes, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
Quino Colom’s farewell letter
In his emotional farewell letter, Colom expressed his gratitude to his family, friends, and everyone who supported him throughout his career. He reflected on his journey, from his early days as a child to his professional debut and eventually becoming a world champion. Colom’s letter is a heartwarming tribute to the people who helped him achieve his dreams and a testament to the incredible experiences he had along the way.
“Dad, mom, we get it. Do you remember when I was a child and I told you that I wanted to be one of them? You always helped me to believe that I could achieve the impossible and today, after much effort, we can say that we not only achieve it, but we overcome it.
At age 14 I had to make my suitcases, the adventure began. Debut with the Spanish Sub-18 team and in the blink of an eye we were already in the ACB. The best European League, the one we saw on TV with Guille, my little brother and imitated the triple impossible of our idols.
From there to Russia, where I spent the best three years of my career, followed by Türkiye, Serbia and Greece.
Quino Colom, in his stage at Unics Kazan.
My career has been an incredible trip. But without a doubt the most special was to represent Spain, unparalleled sensation every time he wore that shirt. How to forget those FIBA windows in which we fight against everything and grew to qualify for a World Cup that would go down in history: China 2019.
Always enjoying every moment, both on and off the track. In my way. Friends and anecdotes that will remain for life, always surrounded by the best team: mine.
Thanks to all those who were part of the road. Companions, coaches, club people, family, friends, my representative Manel and all those who supported me unconditionally. Also thanks to my wife who accompanied me all these years and gave me the best gifts that life has given me: my two daughters: Daniela and Alejandra.
Now, the time has come to take a page to help them to fulfill their dreams as my parents did with me.
Thank you all for making it possible. That the magic continues to shine. “
Quino Colom in a selection match
An extraordinary trajectory
Born on November 1, 1988, in Andorra la Vieja, Quino Colom is one of the best basketball players to have never left the principality. He started his professional career with Plus Pujol Lleida in the 2005-06 season, before moving to Cai Zaragoza, where he made his debut in the Endesa League in 2008-09. Colom’s career spanned multiple teams, including Fuenlabrada, Estudiantes, and Bilbao, before he embarked on his international adventure in Russia.
In his stage in Fuenlabrada.
Colom’s experiences took him to UNICS Kazan, Bahçeşehir Koleji, and back to Spain with Valencia, before signing with Red Star, Baskonia, AEK Athens, and finally, Girona. One of the most remarkable aspects of his career is the sheer number of teams he played for, making him one of the most well-traveled Spanish basketball players.
His most cherished memory, however, remains the 2019 World Cup in China, where he was part of the team that defied expectations and became champions. Colom had previously tasted success in training categories, winning European bronze medals with the Sub-18 and Sub-20 teams. His late debut with the National Team in 2017 was a testament to his perseverance, and his performance in the FIBA Windows of qualification convinced coach Scariolo to include him in the World Cup squad.
Against Shane Larkin in a Euroleague match with Valencia.
Quino Colom’s legacy will be remembered for his dedication, passion, and achievements on and off the court. As he hangs up his basketball shoes, he can look back on an extraordinary career, knowing that he fulfilled his dreams and inspired countless young athletes along the way.
