The 22-year-old center, drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 48th pick, said today he will spend another season with the Spanish club Akasvayu Girona.

"It's in my best interests to continue at Girona due to their ambitious sporting project and the great atmosphere in the team," Gasol said. "I want to work very hard and improve this coming year."

The 7-foot-1 Gasol, who helped Spain win the basketball world title last year, was also chosen to play for the national team at the European Championship in September.