Santi Aldama is quickly becoming a household name in the NBA. Known for his versatility, basketball IQ, and international flair, Aldama has made a strong impression as a key player for the Memphis Grizzlies.
Fans admire his journey from Spain to the NBA, his impressive performances for both club and country, and his steady rise in the league. Aldama’s career is at an exciting crossroads, with his on-court achievements matched by growing financial success and a bright future ahead.
Santi Aldama’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Santiago Aldama Toledo |
| Date of Birth | January 10, 2001 |
| Age | 24 |
| Place of Birth | Las Palmas, Spain |
| Nationality | Spanish |
| Education | Loyola University Maryland |
| Height | 7 ft 0 in (2.13 m) |
| Weight | 215 lbs (98 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2021 |
| NBA Team | Memphis Grizzlies |
| Net Worth | $10,243,371 |
| Salary | $3,960,531 |
| Career Earnings | $10,243,371 |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| @santialdama | |
| @santialdama |
Early Career
Santi Aldama was born in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain, into a family deeply rooted in basketball. His father, Santiago Aldama Alesón, was a professional basketball player who represented Spain in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
Growing up surrounded by the sport, Santi started playing basketball at just three years old, inspired by his father and uncle, both of whom had professional careers. He idolized Spanish legends like Pau Gasol and Juan Carlos Navarro, as well as NBA superstar Kobe Bryant, shaping his early love for the game.
Aldama’s basketball journey began at the Canterbury Basketball Academy in his hometown. Despite offers from major Spanish clubs such as FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, he chose to stay at Canterbury, valuing the environment and development opportunities.
His talent was evident from a young age, and he made a name for himself at the 2017 Spanish Under-16 Championship, averaging 18.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. Playing alongside future stars, he helped his team secure a surprising third-place finish, only behind the powerhouses of Spanish youth basketball.
His performances caught the attention of scouts and coaches, leading to a stint with FC Barcelona’s under-18 team in the Adidas Next Generation tournament. However, Aldama’s ambitions extended beyond Spain. He wanted to experience basketball and education in the United States, setting his sights on college basketball as a stepping stone to the NBA.
Aldama committed to Loyola University Maryland, a decision that surprised many analysts. He was considered a four-star recruit and had the talent to play for bigger NCAA programs, but he valued the personal connection with Loyola’s assistant coach Ivo Simović and the academic environment.
At Loyola, Aldama quickly adapted to both the academic and athletic demands, making the most of his new surroundings. young talents and set the stage for his NBA journey.
Professional Career
Santi Aldama declared for the NBA Draft after his sophomore season at Loyola. On July 29, 2021, he was selected with the 30th overall pick in the first round by the Utah Jazz, but his rights were immediately traded to the Memphis Grizzlies. This marked a significant milestone, as Aldama became the first Loyola Maryland player ever drafted in the NBA’s first round.
Aldama’s rookie year with the Grizzlies saw him split time between the NBA and the Memphis Hustle, the team’s G-League affiliate. He appeared in 32 NBA games, averaging 4.1 points and 2.7 rebounds in limited minutes. The transition to the NBA was challenging, but Aldama’s work ethic and adaptability helped him adjust to the faster, more physical style of play.
His sophomore season (2022-23) was a breakout year. Aldama played in 77 games, starting 20, and averaged 9.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. He shot 47% from the field and 35.3% from three-point range, showcasing his ability to stretch the floor as a modern forward. His versatility allowed him to play both power forward and center, and he became a valuable part of the Grizzlies’ rotation.
The 2023-24 season saw further improvement. Aldama started 35 games and averaged 10.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. He continued to develop his offensive game, becoming more confident as a scorer and playmaker. His defensive skills also improved, with increased blocks and steals, making him a reliable two-way player.
Aldama has solidified his role as a key contributor for the Grizzlies. He played 65 games, starting 16, and posted career-best averages of 12.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. His shooting efficiency remained high, with a field goal percentage of 48.3% and a three-point percentage of 36.8%. Aldama’s ability to guard multiple positions, rebound, and space the floor has made him an integral part of the team’s success.
Santi Aldama’s Net Worth Details
Santi Aldama’s net worth is estimated to be $10,243,371 as of 2025.
Contract
Santi Aldama is currently playing under his rookie scale contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, which he signed after being selected in the first round of the 2021 NBA Draft. The deal spans four years and is fully guaranteed, with a total value of $10,243,371.
For the 2024-25 season, Aldama will earn a base salary of $3,960,531, marking the final year of his rookie contract. At the end of this season, he will become a restricted free agent, giving the Grizzlies the option to match any offer he receives from other teams and retain him for the future.
Salary
For the 2024-25 NBA season, Santi Aldama’s salary is set at $3,960,531, which is the highest annual amount of his four-year rookie contract with the Memphis Grizzlies. This salary reflects his increased value and contributions to the team as he continues to develop as a versatile forward. The amount is fully guaranteed, ensuring Aldama receives the full payment regardless of performance or injuries during the season.
Career Earnings
| Year | Age | Team | Salary | Cumulative Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-22 | 21 | Memphis Grizzlies | $1,994,520 | $1,994,520 |
| 2022-23 | 22 | Memphis Grizzlies | $2,094,120 | $4,088,640 |
| 2023-24 | 23 | Memphis Grizzlies | $2,194,200 | $6,282,840 |
| 2024-25 | 24 | Memphis Grizzlies | $3,960,531 | $10,243,371 |
NBA Career Stats
| Season | Team | GP | GS | MIN | FG% | 3P% | FT% | REB | AST | STL | BLK | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-22 | Grizzlies | 32 | 0 | 11.3 | 40.2 | 12.5 | 62.5 | 2.7 | 0.7 | 0.2 | 0.3 | 4.1 |
| 2022-23 | Grizzlies | 77 | 20 | 21.8 | 47.0 | 35.3 | 75.0 | 4.8 | 1.3 | 0.6 | 0.6 | 9.0 |
| 2023-24 | Grizzlies | 61 | 35 | 26.5 | 43.5 | 34.9 | 62.1 | 5.8 | 2.3 | 0.7 | 0.9 | 10.7 |
| 2024-25 | Grizzlies | 65 | 16 | 25.5 | 48.3 | 36.8 | 69.1 | 6.4 | 2.9 | 0.8 | 0.4 | 12.5 |
| Career | 235 | 71 | 22.6 | 45.9 | 34.5 | 69.2 | 5.2 | 1.9 | 0.6 | 0.6 | 9.8 |
FAQs
1. Who is Santi Aldama and what team does he play for?
Santi Aldama is a Spanish professional basketball player who plays as a power forward for the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA. He was born in Las Palmas, Spain, and is known for his versatile skills and international basketball background.
2. When and where was Santi Aldama born?
Santi Aldama was born on January 10, 2001, in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain. He grew up in a family with a strong basketball tradition, which influenced his early interest in the sport.
3. What are some of Santi Aldama’s career highlights and achievements?
Aldama was named MVP of the 2019 FIBA U18 European Championship after leading Spain to a gold medal. He also helped Spain qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics and was named MVP of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Spain.
4. How did Santi Aldama perform in college basketball?
Santi Aldama played college basketball at Loyola University Maryland, where he averaged 19 points and 8 rebounds per game over two seasons. His standout performances caught the attention of NBA scouts and led to his selection in the NBA draft.
5. When was Santi Aldama drafted into the NBA and by which team?
Aldama was selected in the first round of the 2021 NBA Draft as the 30th overall pick by the Utah Jazz. He was then traded to the Memphis Grizzlies, where he began his NBA career.
6. What are Santi Aldama’s best performances in the NBA?
Santi Aldama’s NBA career highs include scoring 29 points in a regular season game and recording 17 rebounds and 11 assists in other standout performances. He has also had several games with double-digit rebounds and assists.
7. What is Santi Aldama’s playing style and strengths?
Aldama is recognized for his versatility as a forward, with the ability to score, rebound, and assist. He has a reliable three-point shot, strong rebounding skills, and can contribute both offensively and defensively for his team.
8. What is Santi Aldama’s net worth and salary?
Santi Aldama’s estimated net worth is around $4 million. He earned approximately $2.19 million in salary for the 2024 NBA season and has made over $6 million in his professional basketball career.
9. What is Santi Aldama’s family background in basketball?
Santi Aldama’s father, Santiago Aldama Alesón, was a professional basketball player who represented Spain in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. This family legacy played a significant role in Santi’s early development in the sport.
10. What are Santi Aldama’s recent contributions to the Spanish national team?
Recently, Aldama played a key role in helping Spain qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics by averaging 17 points and a team-leading eight rebounds in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. He was named the tournament’s MVP for his outstanding performance.
