Tenerife’s Basketball Prodigy Eyes the NBA
Guillermo Díaz-Graham, a rising basketball star from Tenerife, recently earned a call-up to Spain’s new B-team project. For the young pivot, this opportunity represents a chance to compete and learn from top-tier professionals while getting a glimpse into the inner workings of “La Familia”—the close-knit Spanish national team. “It brings you one step closer to being part of it,” he told EFE.
An Unexpected Honor
Díaz-Graham, who has spent the last few years playing for the Pittsburgh Panthers in the NCAA, admits he never expected the call-up. Seeing his name on the list evoked an “indescribable” feeling. “Playing for the senior national team is completely different from the U18 or U19 squads,” he said. “These are the players I grew up watching. Now I get to train with them and see how La Familia operates.”
From Tenerife to the NCAA
The Canary Islands native arrived in the US four years ago alongside his twin brother, Jorge, initially planning to pursue a university degree. However, their path took a turn when they joined IMG Academy, a renowned sports training institution, before making the leap to the University of Pittsburgh. “It was the best decision we could have made,” Díaz-Graham reflects. “At first, it was daunting, but IMG opened doors—balancing academics, basketball, and even earning some money while getting closer to my dream.”
The NCAA as a Stepping Stone
Díaz-Graham understands why more young European players are choosing the NCAA over traditional club pathways. “The jump from youth basketball to the pros is massive,” he explains. “Not everyone gets the chance to fully develop. The NCAA is an intermediate step—it gives you recognition and opens more doors to the NBA.” While he acknowledges that European clubs may feel the sting of losing talent, he emphasizes that the opportunity is too good to pass up. “It’s hard for them to compete with what the US offers.”
A New Challenge at San Francisco
For his fourth collegiate year, Díaz-Graham is transferring to the University of San Francisco, seeking a bigger role on the court. “I hope to take more responsibility—leading plays, making decisions, and taking shots I couldn’t before,” he says. “This move gives me the freedom to grow and hopefully have a standout season.”
Chasing the NBA Dream
The 2.13-meter-tall forward-center, known for his versatility as a “stretch five,” dreams of making it to the NBA. He plans to enter the 2026 draft but remains realistic. “It’s incredibly tough—you need luck and relentless work ethic,” he admits. Still, he believes the dream feels more attainable in the US, whether through the draft or short-term contracts like 10-day tryouts. “Every opportunity counts when you’re fighting for a spot in the league.”
A European Touch in American Basketball
Díaz-Graham credits his European basketball roots for his well-rounded game. His ability to stretch the floor, draw out opposing big men, and knock down three-pointers, combined with his court vision and passing, has impressed coaches. “Growing up in Europe taught me to read the game differently,” he says. Now, as he balances his NCAA career and national team ambitions, he remains a proud representative of Canary Islands basketball on the global stage.
