Every year, more and more talented players make the leap from Europe to the NBA, and it’s no secret that some of today’s biggest stars aren’t American-born. But with all that talent crossing the pond comes a whole new set of challenges, ones that don’t always get talked about out loud.
That’s exactly what Hugo Gonzalez, the Celtics’ newest draft pick, did recently. Just as he’s about to start his rookie season in Boston, Gonzalez opened up about something that’s been weighing on his mind and let’s just say it’s the kind of honest admission that has fans paying close attention.
When asked about the biggest challenges he will face adjusting in the NBA he said, “Well actually, the biggest adjustment is to try and handle with the three point line that is a bit far. To handle with the lines, and not stepping on the white lines.”
Hugo Gonzalez says the biggest adjustment from Real Madrid to the Celtics is the NBA three-point line, which is further back.
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Gonzalez admitted that getting used to the pace and rhythm of the NBA is going to be a real challenge for him since it’s so different from what he’s used to back home in Spain.
Luckily, the Celtics have his back.
He shared that they’ve already set up mini camps to help him get a feel for the American style of play. He says it’s really helping and he feels like he’s starting to adapt pretty well.
Gonzalez went 28th overall to the Celtics in the 2025 NBA draft, and now he’s gearing up for what’s sure to be a wild rookie season.
He’ll be suiting up for the Celtics in the Summer League, using it as the perfect chance to shake off any jitters and get a feel for the pace before things really heat up.
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