Santi Aldama Biography: Santiago Aldama Toledo, born on January 10, 2001, and nicknamed “The Trolley Problem,” is a Spanish professional basketball player for the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA. He previously played college basketball for the Loyola Greyhounds and was named the MVP of the 2019 FIBA U18 European Championship. Aldama is the son of Santiago Aldama, a former Spanish basketball player who competed in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona.
Santi Aldama Biography
Santiago “Santi” Aldama Toledo is a rising star in professional basketball, known for his versatility and impressive performances. Born on January 10, 2001, in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain, Aldama has quickly made a name for himself in the NBA as a forward for the Memphis Grizzlies. With a strong international background and a passion for the game, Santi represents a new wave of global talent in basketball.
Santi Aldama Biography 2025 Details
| Born | 10 January 2001 (age 24) Las Palmas, Spain |
| Listed height | 7 ft 0 in (2.13 m) |
| Listed weight | 215 lb (98 kg) |
| High school | Canterbury Academy (Las Palmas, Spain) |
| College | Loyola (Maryland) (2019–2021) |
| NBA draft | 2021: 1st round, 30th overall pick |
| Drafted by | Utah Jazz |
| Playing career | 2021–present |
| Category | Football Biographies |
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About Santi Aldama
Santiago Aldama Toledo, nicknamed The Trolley Problem, is a Spanish professional basketball player for the Memphis Grizzlies of the National Basketball Association. He played college basketball for the Loyola Greyhounds. He was named most valuable player of the 2019 FIBA U18 European Championship.
Santi Aldama Wiki
- Born: 10 January 2001 (age 24 years), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
- Current teams: Memphis Grizzlies (#7 / Power forward, Center), Spain
- Height: 13 m
- Date joined: 2021 (Memphis Grizzlies)
- College: Loyola (Maryland) (2019–2021)
- Parents: Santiago Aldama
- Drafted by: Utah Jazz
Early Life and Career
Aldama was raised in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain, and began playing basketball at the age of three, inspired by his father and uncle, Santi Toledo, both of whom played the sport professionally. Growing up, Aldama idolized basketball legends like Pau Gasol, Juan Carlos Navarro, and Kobe Bryant.
He played for the Canterbury Basketball Academy in Las Palmas and chose to stay there despite offers from top clubs like FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Gran Canaria. In the 2017 Spanish Under-16 Championship, he averaged 18.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, helping Canterbury secure a surprising third-place finish behind FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. In 2018, Aldama also played for the FC Barcelona under-18 team during the Ciutat de L’Hospitalet qualifiers at the Adidas Next Generation Tournament.
Key Details
- Full Name: Santiago Aldama Toledo
- Date of Birth: January 10, 2001
- Place of Birth: Las Palmas, Spain
- Nationality: Spanish
- Education: Loyola University Maryland
- Position: Forward
- NBA Team: Memphis Grizzlies
- Net Worth: $4 Million (estimated)
- Relationship Status: Single
Family Background
Santi Aldama was born into a sports-centric family. His father, Santiago Aldama Alesón, was a professional basketball player who competed for Spain in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Raised in Las Palmas, Santi was exposed to basketball early, often accompanying his father to games and practices. His mother, Rosa Toledo, played a key role in nurturing his education and well-rounded upbringing.
Aldama excelled both academically and athletically during his school years at the Canterbury School in Las Palmas. His early immersion in basketball, combined with guidance from his father, laid the foundation for his future career. Santi also developed a passion for international basketball, frequently watching NBA games and European league matchups.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Santi’s basketball journey gained significant momentum at the 2019 FIBA U18 European Championship, where his stellar performance earned him the MVP title. Averaging 18 points and 7 rebounds per game, he led Spain to a gold medal victory. After his success in international tournaments, Aldama moved to the United States to play college basketball at Loyola University Maryland. In two seasons, he averaged 19 points and 8 rebounds per game, catching the attention of NBA scouts. He was selected 30th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2021 NBA Draft, marking the start of his professional career.
Notable Works and Achievements
Santi’s MVP-winning performance at the 2019 FIBA U18 European Championship remains one of his defining career moments. His ability to lead Spain under pressure solidified his potential as a future star.
Since joining the Memphis Grizzlies, Aldama has shown impressive growth. Notable achievements include a career-high 22 points against the Boston Celtics and key contributions during the Grizzlies’ playoff runs.
- FIBA U18 MVP (2019)
- Rookie Highlights in the NBA (2021-2022 season)
- Spanish Basketball Federation Honors
Current Relevance and Recent Updates
Aldama has become an essential rotational player for the Memphis Grizzlies, lauded for his versatility and ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting. In the 2023-2024 NBA season, he has been consistently scoring in double digits, helping the team maintain a strong performance. Santi is gaining attention on social media, where he shares insights into his training, game highlights, and interactions with fans. His humility and relentless work ethic continue to inspire young athletes worldwide.
Personal Life and Relationships
Currently, Santi Aldama is single and focused on his basketball career. He keeps a low profile when it comes to his personal life, despite his growing fame. Santi remains close to his family, often crediting his parents and older sister for their unwavering support. His father continues to be a mentor, guiding him through the challenges of professional sports.
Santi Aldama Net Worth 2025
Aldama’s estimated net worth stands at $4 million, primarily accumulated through his NBA contracts, endorsement deals, and sponsorships.
- Houses: A luxurious apartment in Memphis and a family home in Las Palmas.
- Cars: Known to own a sleek Audi A7.
- Investments: Aldama has invested in sports tech startups and real estate in Spain.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Santi speaks three languages: Spanish, English, and French.
- He is an avid chess player, often using the game to enhance his strategic thinking.
- Aldama’s favorite NBA player growing up was Spanish legend Pau Gasol.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Santi is committed to giving back, actively participating in basketball clinics for underprivileged youth in both Spain and the U.S. He is also an advocate for environmental causes and has supported sustainability campaigns. Though early in his career, Aldama is seen as a trailblazer for aspiring Spanish players looking to make their mark in the NBA. His story symbolizes perseverance, talent, and the importance of family support.
Future Plans and Impact on Culture
Santi plans to continue developing his role with the Memphis Grizzlies while also pursuing international competitions with the Spanish national team. He has expressed interest in launching a basketball academy in Spain. Aldama’s journey resonates with aspiring athletes around the world. His ability to bridge the gap between European and American basketball cultures has made him a global ambassador for the sport.
FAQs
What is Santi Aldama’s net worth?
Santi Aldama’s estimated net worth is $4 million. His wealth is primarily generated from his NBA contracts, endorsement deals, and sponsorships.
Where did Santi Aldama play college basketball?
Santi Aldama played college basketball at Loyola University Maryland in the United States, where he had an impressive two-season stint before entering the NBA.
What is Santi Aldama’s most significant achievement in his basketball career?
One of Aldama’s most significant achievements is his MVP title at the 2019 FIBA U18 European Championship, where he averaged 18 points and 7 rebounds per game, leading Spain to the gold medal.
Is Santi Aldama involved in any charitable work?
Yes, Santi Aldama is actively involved in charitable efforts, including running basketball clinics for underprivileged youth in both Spain and the U.S., and supporting environmental causes.
What languages does Santi Aldama speak?
Santi Aldama is multilingual, speaking three languages: Spanish, English, and French.
What are Santi Aldama’s future plans in basketball?
Aldama aims to continue growing his role with the Memphis Grizzlies, pursue international competitions with the Spanish national team, and potentially launch a basketball academy in Spain.