Carla Leite’s departure for the WNBA, following her selection by the Portland Fire in the expansion draft, has caused friction in Spain. Zaragoza coach Carlos Cantero expressed his disappointment and criticism, stating that he will have to manage the team without her for the remainder of the season. These remarks were reported by El Periodico di Aragon.
“I have a negative view of her departure. I could elaborate further on the subject, but it’s not worth it. The coach has a perspective that many do not share, and I prefer not to reveal it to prioritize those who remain, who have given their all and will pull us through as a team with a capital T. […] Carla did not weigh as much as other players. We couldn’t count on her in the Super Cup or in the EuroLeague qualifying match against Brno, and we adapted and won those games.”
It is worth noting that Carla Leite was the second-best passer and second-highest scorer for her team in the EuroLeague this season. Furthermore, she concluded her Iberian journey with an excellent performance in the competition’s bronze medal match, scoring 20 points and providing 6 assists against Girona to secure third place.
