Interview with Klara Lundquist

Spar Girona | Tuesday, 04 February 2025

How do you feel here in Girona and with the club?
I feel great in Girona. The basketball is fantastic, as is the city. I have my fiancé and our dog here, and we love that there are so many things to do and discover.

How did you feel when you arrived at Spar Girona this season? What differences have you noticed between basketball in Sweden and that of the LF Endesa?
I was really excited to join the team before the season started, as other Swedish players who had played here had spoken highly of the club. Plus, I had always wanted to play in the Spanish league.

The pace of the games here is much more intense than in Sweden. This league is highly competitive and all the teams are tough to beat.

The biggest difference, compared to Sweden, is the interest in basketball, both in the country and in the city. The fans here are much more involved and committed to the team. Playing in Fontajau with our fans is like having an extra player on the court. It’s spectacular.

How do you feel about being a starter at the start of the season? Do you think you’ve fulfilled the expectations you had for yourself?
I always have high expectations for myself, and I like it, because it keeps me motivated.
So far I am satisfied with our performance. We have had a good first part of the season. However, now comes the most decisive and important part, so we have to continue working and improving day by day.

What are the key factors for the team to be successful this season?
I think the key is to maintain a winning mentality and, above all, to stay united as a team.

What are your personal goals for this season, both individually and collectively?
The goal now is to compete for the title in both the Spanish league and the EuroCup.
On a personal level, I want to improve as a base player and grow as a leader within the team.

What are your long-term goals in the world of basketball? Beyond the team, what would you like to achieve in your career?
My goal is to play at a high level and have success with our national team. One of my biggest dreams would be to play in the Olympic Games.

You have Laia Palau on your coaching staff. What is it like working with her?
It’s a privilege to have one of the best coaches in history on the coaching staff. I learn something new from her every day. She supports me a lot, and I’m very grateful for that.

You were named Player of the Week in the EuroCup Women. How did you feel helping the team qualify for the quarterfinals?
It was incredible to qualify for the quarter-finals, and the atmosphere in Fontajau was extraordinary. Of course, being named Player of the Week was very special. But now we focus on the next round, where we want to overcome Lyon.

Is there a place in Girona that you particularly like or that you are enjoying discovering during your stay here?
For me, the best thing about Girona is the old town, with all its lovely restaurants and cafes. I also really like the nature that surrounds the city, as there are many places where we can take beautiful walks with our dog.

Our ideal day off is to hike up the mountain paths behind the city and end up having a coffee at La Comuna when we return.