Written by: Assistant Coach Ashley Elliott

Hey Pack Fans!!!
 
Today was Spain Day #1 and #2 all wrapped up into one awesome and exhausting package. Our trip started in Reno at about 2 am very early Saturday morning. We boarded a bus to San Francisco, hopped on a plane to Philadelphia, and then another to Madrid. They say if you rest once you land in Europe, it will put you off schedule, so we were on the go from there. We deplaned about 7:30 am local time, went straight to see a bullfighting stadium (but not any bullfighting) and have a quick breakfast before going on a bus and walking tour of Madrid. 
 
The group was able to visit the Temple of Debod, a monument built by the Egyptians and donated to Spain in 1972. We were also able to see the royal palace and catch some breathtaking views of the city. A new statue, fountain or awe-inspiring building seemed to be around every corner! The team and coaches alike were amazed by the history and beauty that we were surrounded in. 
 
After that, it was lunch and a quick workout before checking into the hotel for a little "downtime" before dinner. To be honest, the downtime was just a chance for us all to shower up and go check out some more of the city and shopping…I think most of us were afraid to lie down for fear that we may not wake back up in time for dinner!
 
To be honest, when I sat back tonight to write this post, my brain was a little mush (apparently that happens after being awake for over 36 hours). All I could think of to explain this amazing opportunity that basketball, the Nevada athletics department and all of our wonderful supporters, friends and family have given to us, was a quote from Oh, the Places You'll Go by Dr. Seuss.
 
"Oh the places you'll go!
There is fun to be done!
There are points to be scored!
There are games to be won.
And the magical things you can
do with that ball will make you
the winningest winner of all!"
~ Dr. Seuss
 
The friends and family that our "magical ball" has given to us will last a lifetime and so will all of these memories of Spain! I don't think that too many of us imagined that this wonderful game would take us halfway around the world! We can't wait to get on the court and compete, but in the meantime, we promise to build our relationships and make the most out of every opportunity that we have this week! Thank you all so much for your support!


GO PACK!
-Ashley