PROTECT THE PAINT

Today Ricky Rubio spent his 19^th birthday helping his new team FC Barcelona defeat Fenerbahce Ulker 82-59.

Granted it was not NBA competition, but the teen sensation scored 9 points on 2 for 5 shooting from the field while going a perfect 4 of 4 from the line. Rather impressive.

Rubio had a nice 19th birthday. (Credit: epa)

In addition to his 9 points, Rubio showcased his distributing skills and all around game with 9 assists, 2 steals and 2 rebounds.

Rubio missed his first double-double of the season in just 21 minutes of play.

While other 19-year-old kids are trying to figure their life out, nervously preparing for a date, or cramming for a college exam, Rubio is making a statement as a professional basketball player. He is proving he is worth the hype.

It might not be the NBA, but Euroleague is one of the better basketball leagues in the world. Spain is also one of the largest importers of NBA quality players. Brandon Jennings proved that one year in Italy might be better than one year in the NCAA.

Imagine how good Rubio will be after 2 years in Europe vs 2 years in college.

He might be two years away from the NBA, but that just means Rubio could be spending his 21^st birthday preparing for his NBA game.

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