Garino on his return: “I felt my soul returning to my body” 1

It was a long-awaited return for Patricio Garino, as he netted his first full game after 17 months of absence in the battle against Dzukija in Zalgirio Arena.

The Argentinan had a short run against Pieno zvaigzdes in Octover, but the he couldn’t finish the game and had to undergo meniscus surgery.

After the long break, Garino finally got to score 3 points in 14 minutes of action and was ecstatic to make a return.

“Amazing, I’m super happy. I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. Even though I had a little game that doesn’t really count for me. Yesterday to play a whole game and have the minutes, and finish the game with a good feeling, is something I’ve been looking forward to for a long time. 17 months without an official full game is a long time and yesterday felt magical.”

It was apparent that the return meant the whole world to the 27-year-old, as he donned a big smile after his made three-pointer.

“It was everything. My mentality before the game was for that – to gain a smile again on the court. To be able to shoot my first shot, it’s a big thing, I wasn’t expecting it. It brought a lot of joy to me and I felt my soul was back in my body. Seeing the guys on the bench celebrating, meant a lot to me.”

It’s been a long road in recovery and Garino highlighted the role of his teammates in helping him through the tough times.

“Even from the beginning, in the locker room, in the presentation. When I made that three, I was looking at the bench and seeing everyone smiling and waving their towels. I saw them I have to thank them. For their support, this whole time. For them to cheer for me and expect the best means a lot to me. I owe them a lot, because I had times when I wasn’t so happy and cheerful, and they were always there.”