The Spanish National Team defeated the Slovenian National Team 99-79 in an exhibition match on Friday.
The real story from this game was Grizzlies forward Santi Aldama, who scored 18 points in 24 minutes. Aldama posted 7 assists, 6 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks to lead Spain in the win.
The Grizzlies forward has been nothing but exceptional for Spain this offseason as he has done the majority of the scoring. A performance like this versus a superstar like Luka Doncic gives many Memphis fans hope for a breakout season.
Aldama had his best season this year as he played 77 games and started in 20 of them. The third-year forward averaged nine points and five rebounds while shooting 35 percent from three.
It comes as no surprise that Aldama is in the team’s future as he saw a significant jump in playing time this past season in the power forward position. With the injury of Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke, Memphis put trust in Aldama, who delivered defensively and provided a spark when needed.
Now that Dillon Brooks is in Houston, we could see Aldama put in the small forward position at times depending on how head coach Taylor Jenkins runs the lineup. It would add size and open the floor more for Memphis to set up their offense through anyone.
Memphis fans should be on the lookout for Aldama’s play in this year’s FIBA World Cup as he is one of the stars for Spain. We could see a potential star in the making depending on how Aldama comes out of this going into next season.
Suerte en la Copa del Mundo FIBA Santi!
