Spain’s Future Stars Shine in NBA 2K26 Summer League Debuts
The second day of the NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas brought excitement for Spanish fans as two former Real Madrid players, Hugo González and Eli John Ndiaye, debuted in the NBA with the Boston Celtics and Atlanta Hawks, respectively.
Hugo González: A Promising Start with the Celtics
The 19-year-old Hugo González, selected 28th in the draft, started for the Celtics in their victory (92-78) against the Memphis Grizzlies. Playing 28 minutes, he finished with 12 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, and 2 blocks. González scored his team’s first basket and showcased his defensive activity and reading of the game.
“He has been impressive in defense and I think the shooting mechanism is very good too. Also made very good reads as a point guard.” – Keith Smith
While González struggled a bit with his shooting (4/12 overall, 3/5 from three), he left everyone with an excellent first impression. His performance seemed ‘predictable’ in a positive way, according to journalist John Karalis of the Boston Sports Journal: “He has a real good engine… put a lot of heart… defended very well… showed that there are shots that he will be able to put in the NBA.”
Eli John Ndiaye: A Spark Off the Bench for the Hawks
Eli John Ndiaye, who went undrafted, played a crucial role for the Atlanta Hawks in their win over the Miami Heat (98-105). He scored 12 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and shot 4/8 from the field in 21 minutes off the bench. Ndiaye also provided a game-defining moment with a timely three-pointer.
The Hawks’ media praised Ndiaye’s physical presence and ability to make crucial plays on both ends of the court.дцатиоднолетний Каспарсас Якявичюс, drafted 20th, also shone for the Hawks with 24 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists, including a 5/9 three-point shooting performance.
EuroBasket Bound
Ndiaye will represent Spain in the upcoming EuroBasket, but Hugo González will not participate due to his prior commitments to prepare for his rookie NBA season, as confirmed by coach Sergio Scariolo.
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