By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Spanish prospect Izan Almansa, a talented big man projected as the high first round pick in the 2024 NBA draft, has decided to sign with G League Ignite, according to ESPN.
Almansa, who recently competed in the FIBA U19 World Cup, believes joining Ignite is the step in the right direction.
“This is the best step to take now to improve my game, play against grown men and also work on my body,” Almansa said.
With impressive accolades from his performances in international tournaments, including MVP honors at both the FIBA U17 World Cup and FIBA U18 European Championship, Almansa has shown his potential.
He made his first steps in Murcia, and was recruited by Real Madrid in 2019. Almansa than played for two years for Madrid’s U16 team, and managed to squeze in three games for Real’s reserves in fourth-tier during 2020-21 season.
Talented Spaniard spent the past two years with Overtime Elite in Atlanta, averaging 9.9 points, 9 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1 steal in 27 minutes per game with YNG Dreamerz last season, shooting 58% from the field.
“My game has improved in a lot of ways in the U.S.; my shooting, physicality and also seeing how the people see the game here, everybody is trying to get to the same place so is super competitive. I decided to continue my development in the U.S. because I want to play here for the next years so I think that being in this environment is going to help me more,” Almanasa added.
Photo: fiba.basketball