Legendary Spanish Basketball Player Rafa Rullán Passes Away at 73
The Mallorcan sports community mourns the loss of one of its greats, Rafa Rullán, a legendary basketball player who died Sunday in Madrid at the age of 73.
"El deporte mallorquín ha perdido este domingo a uno de los más grandes. Rafa Rullán, leyenda del baloncesto nacional, ha muerto en Madrid a los 73 años. Nacido en Palma en 1952, aunque sus orígenes están en Sóller, fue uno de los pívots más destacados de la década de los 70 y hasta mediados de los 80 gracias a su talento y a sus 2,07 metros."
Unmatched Accomplishments with Real Madrid
Rullán spent 18 seasons with Real Madrid, winning an unprecedented 17 titles including:
- 3 Euroleagues (1974, 1978, 1980)
- 14 Spanish Ligas (1970-1986)
- 9 Copa del Rey titles (1970-1986)
- 1 Recopa (1984)
- 3 Intercontinental Cups (1976-1978)
- 1 Club World Championship (1981)
International Career and Olympic Participation
Rullán represented Spain 161 times between 1971 and 1982, winning a silver medal at the EuroBasket 1973. He was also the first Balearic basketball player to participate in the Olympics, competing at the 1972 Munich Games.
A Pioneer in His Style of Play
Beginning his professional career at just 15 years old, Rullán brought a revolutionary style of play to the court, renowned for his "great hook" and long-range shots despite his height.
Legacy and Impact
After retiring, Rullán served as the Real Madrid Basketball Club’s delegate from 1991 to 1999 and directed the basketball schools within the Real Madrid Foundation. His impact on Spanish and Mallorcan basketball remains unparalleled.
FAQs
Where was Rafa Rullán born?
Palma, Mallorca, Spain
For which team did Rafa Rullán play most of his career?
Real Madrid
Did you know?
"When I started playing, people were surprised to see a tall guy like me shooting from so far away. But I believed in my shot, and it paid off." – Rafa Rullán (via AS)
Pro tip for young players
Always have faith in your abilities, and don’t be afraid to try something new on the court, even if others might doubt you.
Join the Conversation
Share your favorite memories of Rafa Rullán and discuss his impact on Spanish and Mallorcan basketball in the comments below.