Santiago Aldama Toledo Bio
Santiago Aldama Toledo, born on January 10, 2001, is a Spanish professional basketball player currently playing for the Memphis Grizzlies in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He gained recognition as the most valuable player (MVP) of the 2019 FIBA U18 European Championship. Aldama played college basketball for the Loyola Greyhounds and is the son of Santiago Aldama, a former Spanish basketball player who competed in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona.
Early Life and Background
Santiago Aldama Toledo was born and raised in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain. He began playing basketball at the young age of three, inspired by his father, Santiago Aldama, and his uncle, Santi Toledo, both of whom played the sport professionally. Growing up, Aldama idolized notable basketball players such as Pau Gasol, Juan Carlos Navarro, and Kobe Bryant. His early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for his future career in basketball.
Aldama played for the Canterbury Basketball Academy in Las Palmas, where he developed his skills and showcased his talent. Despite receiving offers from prestigious clubs like FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Gran Canaria, he chose to remain at Canterbury Academy. His performance at the 2017 Spanish Under-16 Championship was impressive, averaging 18.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, helping his team secure a third-place finish behind FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Path to Basketball
On August 5, 2019, Aldama announced his commitment to play college basketball at Loyola Maryland in the United States. His decision surprised many analysts, as he was considered a four-star recruit and a high-major talent. Aldama was drawn to Loyola due to his father’s connection with assistant coach Ivo Simović and his aspirations for a business career. He felt comfortable during his visit to the school in June.
Aldama’s college career began with a setback, as he missed the first three months of his freshman season due to a knee injury that required surgery. He made his collegiate debut on February 1, 2020, scoring 11 points in a victory over Navy. Throughout his freshman year, he earned recognition as Patriot League Rookie of the Week three times and was named to the Patriot League All-Rookie Team at the end of the season.
Santiago Aldama Toledo Career
Early Career (2021)
Aldama was drafted with the 30th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz, although his rights were traded to the Memphis Grizzlies. He signed with the Grizzlies on August 8, 2021. In his rookie season, he made an impact by scoring a season-high 18 points with ten rebounds in a decisive win against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
During the 2022 NBA Summer League, Aldama showcased his skills and was named to the All-NBA Summer League Second Team. With Jaren Jackson Jr. sidelined, he was named the Grizzlies’ starting power forward at the beginning of the 2022–23 season. He recorded a double-double of 18 points and eleven rebounds in his first career start against the New York Knicks.
Breakthrough (2022–Present)
Aldama’s performance continued to improve as he established himself as a key player for the Grizzlies. On February 2, 2023, he achieved a career-high of 21 points and ten rebounds in a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. His contributions helped the Grizzlies during the regular season, where he averaged 12.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists in 65 appearances.
On June 30, 2025, Aldama re-signed with the Grizzlies on a three-year contract worth $52.5 million, solidifying his place in the team for the upcoming seasons.
Notable Works and Milestones
Santiago Aldama Toledo’s signature achievements include being named the MVP of the 2019 FIBA U18 European Championship and earning First Team All-Patriot League honors in 2021. His journey from a promising young player in Spain to a professional athlete in the NBA showcases his dedication and talent in the sport.
Santiago Aldama Toledo Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Santiago Aldama has received several nominations and accolades, including recognition as a standout player in various tournaments and leagues.
Santiago Aldama Toledo Awards Won
Santiago Aldama has achieved notable awards, including being named the MVP of the 2019 FIBA U18 European Championship and earning First Team All-Patriot League honors in 2021. His accomplishments highlight his skill and impact on the court.
Santiago Aldama Toledo Family
Santiago Aldama Toledo comes from a family with a rich basketball heritage. His father, Santiago Aldama, played professional basketball in Spain and Portugal and represented Spain in the 1992 Summer Olympics. His uncle, Santi Toledo, also had a successful basketball career in Spain, Italy, and Portugal.
Personal Life
Details about Santiago Aldama’s personal life are limited, but it is known that he is focused on his basketball career while maintaining a connection to his family’s sporting legacy.
