Une of the greatest hopes for the future of Spanish basketball is Santi Aldama. From Radio MARCA we have followed in his footsteps since he started to bounce the ball and, now, it has landed in the NBA.
Arrival in the NBA: “Very happy, it’s a dream come true. It is true that it is a totally different world and I really want to. The Summer League has been very useful to get into dynamics to start the season. The NBA was a dream and a goal, but it would be a lie if I said that a few years ago I imagined being here. “
Memphis: “I had had a very good season and I was quite happy with the possibilities I had, I tried to evade and train and the truth was that it turned out very well. I have found a very good place for me and a franchise with a lot of Spanish tradition. I was talking with Marc and he helped me a lot. Here everyone has good words for the Gasols, they have very good memories “.
The comparisons with Pau Gasol are unfair. I focus on being the best version of myself
Jumping into the NBA from college: “I do not think it will take its toll on me, it is true that in Spain and Europe that way is not so common. Having taken this path is what has made me be here and the right thing at all times has been the decision I have made “
Is the jump to the NBA too soon ?: “This is something very particular, there are many bills and everyone makes their own decision. Some get it earlier and others later. I think it was the right thing to do for me at this point in my career. “
Do expectations press ?: “Nowadays it is a bit difficult not to see what they say about you, but in the end you have to enjoy this. Everything I have done in my life has been thanks to work. I have achieved one of my goals and it is something to be proud of, but you are not the best in the world for getting there, now you have to work every day. “
Comparisons with Pau Gasol: “The comparisons many times they are unfair because each one is the way they are and there are very old people who are unfair to compare with people who are just starting out. like us, but sometimes it’s unavoidable. I focus on being the best version of myself and being satisfied if I give one hundred percent every day. “
Coming to the NBA now is the right step in my career
Garuba: “Very happy, 2 years ago we won the European Championship and now we are here. I hope to see you during the season.”
Objective in the NBA: “I do not look to the future, what I can control is the present and the day to day. If I give the maximum I will be satisfied.”
Future of Spanish basketball: “I wish I could do as much as they have done. They are the pride of Spain, I have grown up seeing them. The comparisons are unfair, they are unbelievable, the Golden generation. The important thing now is to work. “