Santi Aldama: Rising Spanish Star Making an Impact in the NBA
Santi Aldama has steadily established himself as one of the NBA’s most versatile European forwards. Known for his combination of size, shooting touch, passing ability, and basketball IQ, Aldama has become an important contributor after developing with the Memphis Grizzlies. The 7-foot Spaniard continues to attract attention around the league thanks to his consistent improvement and growing offensive game.
Recent NBA offseason developments have placed Aldama in the spotlight after reports indicated that the Memphis Grizzlies agreed to trade him to the Dallas Mavericks, giving Dallas another skilled frontcourt option heading into the 2026-27 season.
Santi Aldama Stats
Aldama has improved nearly every season since entering the NBA.
2025-26 Season Statistics
- Points per game: 14.0
- Rebounds per game: 6.7
- Assists per game: 2.9
- Position: Forward/Center
- Height: 7’0″ (2.13 m)
- Weight: 215 lbs (98 kg)
These numbers represented the most productive campaign of his NBA career before his reported move to Dallas.
Career Strengths
- Reliable three-point shooter for his size
- Excellent floor spacing
- Strong rebounder
- Above-average passer
- Comfortable handling the ball in transition
- Capable of defending multiple frontcourt positions
His versatility makes him valuable in today’s positionless NBA.
Santi Aldama Trade News
One of the biggest NBA stories of the 2026 offseason involved Aldama.
According to multiple reports, the Memphis Grizzlies agreed to trade Aldama to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for AJ Johnson, a protected 2030 first-round draft pick, two future second-round selections, and additional draft rights. The move gives Dallas another skilled frontcourt player who complements its evolving roster.
The Mavericks believe Aldama’s combination of shooting, size, and basketball intelligence fits well alongside their young core.
Santi Aldama Contract
After enjoying a breakout season, Aldama signed a three-year, $52.5 million contract with Memphis before eventually becoming part of the reported trade package to Dallas.
Contract Overview:
- Length: 3 years
- Total value: $52.5 million
- Average annual salary: Approximately $17.5 million
- Includes guaranteed money and a team option in the final season.
His contract is considered team-friendly for a versatile stretch forward entering his prime.
Santi Aldama Draft
Aldama entered the NBA through the 2021 NBA Draft.
Draft facts:
- Draft Year: 2021
- Overall Pick: No. 30
- First Round
- Drafted by the Utah Jazz
- Rights immediately traded to the Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies saw tremendous long-term potential in the Spanish prospect, and he rewarded their faith through steady year-to-year development.
Santi Aldama Height
One of Aldama’s greatest physical advantages is his size.
- Height: 7 feet (2.13 meters)
- Weight: 215 pounds (98 kg)
- Wingspan: Excellent for interior defense and rebounding
Despite standing seven feet tall, Aldama possesses guard-like skills that make him difficult for defenders to match up against.
Santi Aldama Age
Santi Aldama was born on January 10, 2001, making him 25 years old entering the 2026-27 NBA season.
His age suggests he is still several years away from reaching his full potential, making him an attractive long-term piece for any NBA franchise.
Santi Aldama Highlights
Throughout his NBA career, Aldama has produced numerous memorable performances.
Some career highlights include:
- Career-best scoring averages during the 2025-26 season.
- Multiple double-doubles showcasing his all-around ability.
- Improved three-point shooting as a stretch big.
- Strong playoff performances with Memphis.
- Becoming one of Spain’s most promising NBA talents.
His ability to score inside, stretch the floor, rebound, and facilitate offense has made him one of the league’s most versatile frontcourt players.
College Career
Before reaching the NBA, Aldama starred at Loyola University Maryland.
During college he quickly emerged as one of the nation’s top mid-major players thanks to his scoring ability, rebounding, and polished offensive skill set. His performances earned NBA attention and eventually first-round draft selection.
International Career
Aldama has proudly represented Spain in international basketball competitions.
His experience with the Spanish national program has accelerated his development while allowing him to compete alongside some of Europe’s top players.
What Comes Next?
The reported move to Dallas presents an exciting new chapter.
If the trade is finalized, Aldama will have an opportunity to play a larger role on a Mavericks team looking to remain competitive in the Western Conference. His shooting, versatility, and basketball IQ should fit seamlessly into Dallas’ modern offensive system.
Conclusion
Santi Aldama has developed from a late first-round draft pick into one of the NBA’s most promising international forwards. His impressive statistics, team-friendly contract, elite size, and versatile skill set have made him a valuable asset. With his reported trade to Dallas, basketball fans will be watching closely to see how the talented Spaniard continues his upward trajectory in the NBA.
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