25 Facts About Santi Aldama

Early Life and Background

Santi Aldama, a rising star in basketball, has an intriguing background that shaped his journey to the NBA. Here are some fascinating facts about his early life.

1. Born on January 10, 2001, in Las Palmas, Spain, Santi Aldama grew up in a family passionate about sports.
2. His father, Santiago Aldama, played professional basketball and represented Spain in the 1992 Olympics.
3. Santi's height was noticeable early on, reaching 6 feet by the age of 13.
4. He attended Canterbury School in Las Palmas, where his basketball skills began to shine.
5. Aldama was part of the Spanish U16 national team, winning the gold medal at the 2016 FIBA U16 European Championship.

College Career

Santi Aldama's college career in the United States was a significant step in his development as a player. Here are some key moments from his time in college.

6. Aldama committed to Loyola University Maryland, joining the Greyhounds in 2019.
7. In his freshman year, he averaged 15.2 points and 7.6 rebounds per game.
8. Despite an injury that sidelined him for part of the season, he made a strong comeback, scoring a career-high 30 points against Lehigh.
9. Aldama was named to the Patriot League All-Rookie Team in 2020.
10. In his sophomore year, he led the Patriot League in scoring, averaging 21.2 points per game.

NBA Journey

Santi Aldama's transition to the NBA marked a new chapter in his career. Here are some highlights from his journey to the professional league.

11. Aldama declared for the 2021 NBA Draft after his sophomore year at Loyola.
12. He was selected 30th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies, becoming the first player from Loyola Maryland to be drafted in the first round.
13. Aldama signed his rookie contract with the Grizzlies on August 8, 2021.
14. He made his NBA debut on October 20, 2021, against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
15. In his rookie season, he played in 32 games, averaging 4.1 points and 2.7 rebounds per game.

Playing Style and Skills

Santi Aldama's playing style and skills set him apart on the court. Here are some aspects of his game that make him unique.

16. Standing at 6'11", Aldama's height and wingspan give him a significant advantage in both offense and defense.
17. He is known for his versatility, capable of playing both power forward and center positions.
18. Aldama has a smooth shooting stroke, with a three-point shooting percentage of 36.8% in college.
19. His ball-handling skills are impressive for a player of his size, allowing him to drive to the basket effectively.
20. Defensively, Aldama excels in shot-blocking and rebounding, using his length to disrupt opponents.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond basketball, Santi Aldama has a rich personal life and diverse interests. Here are some facts about his life off the court.

21. Aldama is fluent in both Spanish and English, which helps him connect with a broader audience.
22. He enjoys playing video games, with NBA 2K being one of his favorites.
23. Santi is passionate about music, often listening to a mix of Spanish and American artists.
24. He values education and is pursuing a degree in business management.
25. Aldama is active on social media, where he shares glimpses of his life and interacts with fans.

Final Thoughts on Santi Aldama

Santi Aldama's journey from Spain to the NBA is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication to basketball, combined with his unique skill set, has made him a player to watch. From his early days in Gran Canaria to his standout performances at Loyola, Aldama has consistently shown growth and potential. His ability to adapt and excel in different environments speaks volumes about his character and work ethic. As he continues to develop in the NBA, fans can expect even more exciting moments from this young talent. Whether you're a basketball enthusiast or just love a good success story, Aldama's rise is a testament to hard work and passion. Keep an eye on him; his journey is far from over, and the best is yet to come.