Hugo González: The Celtics’ Rising Spanish Star
At TD Garden in Boston, home of the Celtics, more and more Spanish is being spoken. But it’s not a matter of language; it’s that the team’s official announcer is increasingly calling out the name Hugo González, the Spanish sensation on the green team.
González has capitalized on opportunities this season and perhaps Jayson Tatum’s injury opened the doors for him to earn a spot in coach Joe Mazzulla’s rotation. His minutes have increased, and so has his production.
Even with Tatum returning this Friday against the Mavericks after missing the entire season due to injury, González has already made a name for himself on the team and will continue to receive minutes.
At 20 years old, the Madrid native has shown a remarkable maturity for his age in his first season in the league. Only time will tell if he reaches a career similar to that of compatriots Pau and Marc Gasol in the league.
How Did Hugo González Arrive at the Boston Celtics?
González is the most important talent from Spain since Ricky Rubio. He was developed in the Real Madrid youth system, so he has some of the training that shaped the star of the Los Angeles Lakers, Luka Dončić.
After dominating the youth categories in Spain, González presented himself for the 2025 NBA Draft, although many believed he should have taken one more season in Europe. The gamble paid off, as he was drafted 28th overall in the first round, which guarantees a contract.
What is His Contract?
Being selected in the first round of the draft, González enters into a four-year rookie contract, although the team can opt out after the third and final year.
His salary for the 2025-2026 season is $2,783,880, will increase to $2,923,560 in the 2026-2027 campaign, will rise to $3,062,640 in 2027-2028, and will be $5,528,065 for 2028-2029.
These are figures he clearly could not earn at Real Madrid, due to the enormous salary difference between the NBA and the ACB in Spain. He will grow a free agent in 2029.
What are His Numbers in the 2025/26 Season?
González has gone from being a prospect at the beginning of the season to a full-fledged reality at this point. The shooting guard averages 4.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, 0.6 assists, and 0.3 blocks, with 32% shooting from three-point range and 61% from the field.
He receives 15.4 minutes per game, but his contribution is interesting for a first-year player in the league.
In What Leagues Did He Play Before Reaching the NBA?
Although he didn’t break Luka Dončić’s record, González was one of the youngest to debut with Real Madrid in the ACB. He similarly participated in the EuroLeague, the most important club tournament in Europe and with the level most similar to the NBA.
What Records Has He Achieved in the NBA?
Despite being in his first year, González has had a positive impact on a historic franchise like the Celtics.
In the recent victory against the Bucks, González shone with the best game of his NBA career with 18 points, 16 rebounds, 3 steals, and 2 blocks in his team’s 108-81 victory.
The Madrid native became the first rookie in a decade to record at least 3 steals and 2 blocks in his first three consecutive games.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What position does Hugo González play?
Hugo González plays the shooting guard position.
Where is Hugo González from?
Hugo González is from Madrid, Spain.
What NBA team drafted Hugo González?
Hugo González was drafted by the Boston Celtics.
What is Hugo González’s draft position?
Hugo González was the 28th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
