The latest NCAA action saw two promising Spanish players, Baba Miller and Owen Aquino, leave a lasting impression on the court. Both of these talented individuals opted to hone their skills in the United States rather than remain in the Real Madrid youth academy. Their decision seems to be paying off, as they’re making waves in the American collegiate basketball scene.
Baba Miller had a standout performance with Florida Atlantic, leading his team to a thrilling 63-69 victory over South Florida. The 21-year-old Spanish sensation, who stands at an impressive 2.11 meters with a 2.19-meter wingspan, tallied 17 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, and 3 blocks in 33 minutes of play. His stats this season are equally impressive, with averages of 10.8 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game. Miller’s remarkable skills have caught the attention of NBA scouts, who are closely monitoring his progress ahead of the draft.
Another Spaniard making a name for himself is Owen Aquino, who, despite his team Liberty’s 80-85 loss to Kennesaw State, managed to score 16 points, grab 6 rebounds, and dish out 1 assist in 28 minutes. The 2.03-meter-tall, 22-year-old forward is averaging 9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.1 blocks per game this season. Last season, Aquino shone as the best European player in the Junior College (JUCO) league in the United States.
But where did this talented Madrid-born player come from? Owen Aquino’s basketball journey began in his hometown, where he played for Salesianos de Estrecho, Club Baloncesto Majadahonda, and Colegio Agustiniano before joining the Real Madrid youth academy in 2015. During his time with Real Madrid, he won the Mini Copa ACB 2017, averaging 12 points and 7 rebounds. At just 16, Aquino made his debut with the Real Madrid B team in the Liga EBA. In 2021, he decided to take his talents to the United States, first playing for Central Pointe Christian Academy and then joining the Junior College of Eastern Florida State College in 2022.
As these two Spanish players continue to make their mark on the NCAA, it’ll be exciting to see how their careers unfold. Will they follow in the footsteps of other successful European players who have made the leap to the NBA, or will they forge their own paths? One thing is certain – Baba Miller and Owen Aquino are names to watch in the world of basketball.