Boston Celtics sign up Real Madrid wonderkid
Hugo González was selected at the end of the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics, who want him now, much to the chagrin of Real Madrid.
The NBA is about to welcome a new Spaniard. Hugo González Peña, a native of Madrid, was selected on Wednesday night at the Barclays Center in New York City with the 28th pick in the draft.
Although he had been considered a strong candidate throughout the first round—particularly among international prospects—he came close to being overlooked in a field of 30 players. Teams like the Spurs and Nets, both of which had shown interest in him, ultimately chose to go in different directions.
Then came the call from the Boston Celtics, an iconic franchise with a record 18 championships—and the reigning NBA champions. And their intention is clear: this is not a draft-and-stash situation. They want Hugo on the roster for next season.
Brad Stevens, the Celtics’ president of basketball operations, explained after the draft: “We’ve been watching Hugo for a long time—he’s obviously been on everyone’s radar. We’ve seen him with the great Real Madrid team this year and with the Spanish youth national teams. I’m a big fan of how he plays: he plays hard, he goes after the ball, he competes.
"He has all the intangibles you want in a winning player. Of course, like many kids his age, there are things he needs to work on, but his competitiveness is off the charts. He’s playing alongside veteran stars—it’s not easy to earn minutes on those teams. You have to prove yourself. And he’s done that. He’s willing to play whatever role is needed.”
Back in Spain, Hugo was surrounded by family, friends, and teammates as they awaited news of his future. The decision came just after five in the morning, only hours after he won the Endesa League title with Real Madrid. His basketball career took a major leap overnight.
Related stories
Barring any setbacks, Hugo will join the NBA next season, becoming the latest Spaniard in the league. He’ll play alongside Santi Aldama—currently with Memphis—who is expected to sign a new contract when free agency opens. For the first time in a while, Aldama won’t be the only Spanish player in the league.
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.