Morta Fabiola Mbulito, 12enne promessa del basket spagnolo: è annegata in mare. Cugina della professionista Iris, era appena stata convocata in nazionale

A 12-year-old Spanish basketball prodigy, Fabiola Mbulito, drowned while swimming off the coast of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on Tuesday, July 21. The tragedy occurred near La Laja beach, where emergency services were called after two individuals were reported in distress. Although one person was rescued and taken to the Maternal-Infant Hospital, the other, Fabiola, was found later without signs of life. Her body was recovered after prolonged search efforts. Fabiola was a rising star in the youth ranks of SPAR Gran Canaria, a prominent basketball club based in the Canary Islands. She had recently been called up to the Spain national team’s under-12 squad, marking a major milestone in her young career. This achievement was confirmed by both her club and the Canary Islands Basketball Federation. It was the sixth player from the club's youth system to receive such a call-up this season, highlighting the talent pool within the organization. The incident has sent shockwaves through the Spanish basketball community. The Canary Islands Basketball Federation released a heartfelt statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss. They extended their condolences to Fabiola’s family, friends, teammates, coaches, and the entire SPAR Gran Canaria family. “Her memory will remain forever in the hearts of all who shared her passion for basketball,” they wrote. The Spanish Basketball Federation (FEB) also issued a message of mourning, acknowledging the tragedy and paying tribute to the young athlete. “We express our deepest grief for the passing of a young player who was set to make her debut with the women’s national under-12 team this summer. May she rest in peace.” Fabiola was the cousin of Iris Mbulito, a professional basketball player competing in the Liga Femenina Endesa, Spain’s top-tier women’s league. The two sisters shared a close bond, and Iris expressed her devastation following the news. While specific details about how Fabiola came to be in the water have not yet emerged, local authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. Emergency responders arrived quickly upon receiving reports of two swimmers in trouble. One individual was successfully pulled from the water and hospitalized, though the condition of that person has not been disclosed. Search teams combed the area extensively before locating Fabiola’s body. Authorities have not ruled out foul play, although no evidence of wrongdoing has been presented so far. The death of Fabiola Mbulito has sparked widespread emotional responses across the basketball world. Many players, coaches, and fans have taken to social media to share their condolences and memories of the young athlete. Some have highlighted her potential, while others have emphasized the importance of safety measures for young athletes participating in water-based activities. Local officials are currently reviewing protocols for recreational swimming areas, especially during peak tourist seasons. The incident underscores the risks associated with unsupervised water activities, even for seemingly safe coastal zones. Parents and guardians of young athletes are being urged to exercise caution and ensure proper supervision when engaging in water sports. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the grieving family and honoring Fabiola’s legacy. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact a young athlete can have on their sport and community. The basketball world mourns the loss of a promising future, and the memory of Fabiola Mbulito will endure among those who knew her.