In a stunning display of athletic prowess, Spanish sensation Jesús Carralero has etched his name in the annals of NCAA history by achieving a remarkable triple-double. The 24-year-old forward, standing at an impressive 2.01 meters, played a pivotal role in Bethune-Cookman’s thrilling 78-71 victory over Grambling at the Moore Gymnasium. Carralero’s extraordinary performance was marked by 10 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists, and 2 blocks, cementing his place among the elite players in the NCAA.
This outstanding feat is not only a testament to Carralero’s individual brilliance but also a milestone in the history of Spanish players in the NCAA. His triple-double is the fourth in the history of the Bethune-Cookman ‘Wildcats’ and the first since Marcus Garrett’s achievement on November 16, 2022. As the Spanish player continues to make waves in the NCAA, his journey is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes around the world.
A Journey Marked by Dedication and Perseverance
Carralero’s path to success began in the esteemed ranks of Unicaja, where he honed his skills and developed into a versatile player. With a strong foundation in place, he made his way to the NCAA, where he has been making significant contributions to his team over the past six seasons. His time at Campbell, Missouri, and currently at Bethune-Cookman, has been marked by consistent performances and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
This season, Carralero has been averaging 5.6 points, 5 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 1.2 steals in 28.6 minutes per game, showcasing his all-around abilities on the court. His dedication to the sport and his team is evident in every aspect of his game, from his tenacious defense to his clutch performances under pressure.
A Look Back at Recent Triple-Doubles by Spanish Players in the NCAA
Carralero’s achievement is not an isolated incident; it is part of a larger narrative of Spanish players making their mark in the NCAA. Recently, Golden Dike, a former Unicaja player now competing in Menorca’s Primera FEB, achieved a triple-double in the NCAA, scoring 14 points, grabbing 11 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists in a game against Lehigh University in January 2024. Another notable mention is Xavier Mendiburu, who, back in the 2003-04 season, recorded a triple-double with 17 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists while playing for Green Bay.
These achievements underscore the growing presence and impact of Spanish players in the NCAA, a trend that is expected to continue as more talent emerges from the country’s rich basketball ecosystem. As Jesús Carralero and his contemporaries pave the way, they inspire a new generation of Spanish athletes to strive for excellence in the world of basketball.