Rubio shines for Spain

BEIJING — There's a 17-year old kid roaming the hardwood for Spain here in Beijing and you'd do well to catch a glimpse.

Guard Ricky Rubio has already been on the floor for Spain in key spots, like when Spain and China were tied at 72-72 with 12.4 seconds left in the game.

Rubio first fouled China guard Liu Wei, then on the next possession, continued to harass him until he was able to force Liu to give up the ball.

Rubio saved it going out of bounds and managed to throw it off Liu's leg giving Spain possession for one last shot in regulation.

Rubio had been protected from the media for most of his first season in Spain's professional league. But you wouldn't know it. He also had the best answer when a reporter asked him to describe his game afterwards.

Reporter: Who did you pattern your game after?

Rubio: I'm Ricky Rubio. I can't be anyone else.