Jerebko Returns And Dreams Of EuroBasket
Jonas Jerebko is dreaming of leading Sweden into their first EuroBasket in a decade after returning to action in their final warm-up game before the Division B campaign gets under way.
The Detroit Pistons star returned to a hero's welcome as a crowd of 2445 came out to watch Sweden's final warm-up game against Estonia.
And the forward did not disappoint as he collected 20 points and eight rebounds in an 84-66 victory.
"It was really fun," Jerebko said. "I feel okay in my legs, maybe a little more tired than I thought I would be, but it's okay for the first game.
"I got better in the second half and feel great. I think my stats line looks better than I thought it would do, but I can do better. I was still a bit rusty."
Estonia jumped out to a 10-0 lead, but after Sweden coach Brad Dean called an early time-out, the hosts improved considerably.
Inspired by a pair of steals from Jerebko, they came roaring back with a 13-2 run, going ahead on a basket from Anton Saks. They were in the groove now and led 41-32 by half-time as Estonia could not find a way back.
The win will give them plenty of confidence going into their Division B opener against Belarus on Sunday, and Jerebko is already dreaming of EuroBasket 2013.
With the upcoming changes to the format of EuroBasket qualifying - which will scrap the divisional system and open the door to more teams - he believes the time is right for Sweden to play in a EuroBasket for the first time since hosting it in 2003.
The changes mean that this month's Division B campaign is about securing a good ranking to earn a better spot in the new-look qualification system, as promotion is now irrelevant.
And Jerebko is out to do all he can for his country.
"It would be really fun if we manage to get (to a EuroBasket)" he said.
"I both hope and believe that we have a chance to qualify for the EuroBasket. The goal must be to win all our games this summer and next summer."
At 23, Jerebko is still among the youngest on the Sweden squad, but his huge talent and wide experience for one of his years makes him a natural leader.
"Every year I have played outside Sweden I have grown more as a player," he said. "I will try to take on a leadership role, both for Sweden and Detroit. I'm not a rookie any more and must take responsibility."
However, Jerebko does not want to hog the limelight.
"I do not want any glory if we make it," he said. "It will be a team effort."
Sweden national team
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