LILLE (France) - Something changed for Spain when Maria Conde finally took to the court at the third time of asking in the Women's Olympic Basketball Tournament Paris 2024.
Missing the first two group games with an injury, her belated return to action seemed to transform Spain into podium contenders again.
The first two games were so close that I was almost having a heart attack - Conde
Spain won their first games by the smallest margin each time but La Familia had much easier ride in the Group Final against Serbia.
She was the heartbeat of a terrific 62-70 success against Serbia that sealed top spot in Group A.
Looking like she was unleashing all of the frustration of being sidelined, Conde caught fire immediately and highlighted how she can be the spark that re-ignites a medal chase.
For all the drama of Spain's first two wins which were by a solitary point in each, this was just as compelling - seeing the winger energize her team, bring some fresh air, even more dynamism, 15 points, seven of twelve shooting and 3 steals in just 17 minutes.
Conde confessed that the first two games had been difficult to sit through and not least because they were both dramatic and might have seen Spain lose.
"The first two games were so close that I was almost having a heart attack," she laughed.
"It was hard to sit and watch. I think I was just trying to still help the team in any way I could, even if I couldn't be on the court. I was cheering and I was helping Megan [Gustafson] if she was not understanding something."
So, was that build up of frustration behind her making an instant impact when she did get the green light? "Yeah probably, it has been so tough being here and not being able to play," she admitted.
"I wanted to be able to help the team and there is no better way to do this than by being on the court."
FIBA