The fifth edition of the Spanish Basketball Hall of Fame celebrated its honorees in a memorable gala. Rudy Fernández received his award and delivered a heartfelt speech, thanking the FEB, Diario AS, and those who voted for him. “I don’t know how I ended up here—not because of a lack of titles or a good career in Spain. I came from a small town, Rochester, and dreamed of being an athlete. I wanted to play baseball, honestly, but basketball won out. I still don’t know how I got here. Those of you here today know what it takes to reach this moment, and sometimes we don’t appreciate it enough,” he said.
Fernández recalled tough moments: “Jordi Villacampa cut me from the Euroleague, and Estudiantes did too. When I went to Sacramento, I thought my dream was fulfilled, but three months later I was out. I went to Italy, was cut in two months. I tried Milwaukee with the Bucks and was cut again. I arrived in Málaga and they tried to cut me five times. If they had succeeded, I might not be here now.” He also thanked his family and acknowledged the support of Antonio Martín during training.
Other honorees included Joe Arlauckas and Jordi Villacampa, with special recognition for the Joventut club. The evening featured emotional moments, including Rudy’s praise for his sister Marta, who hosted the gala. “In difficult times, you have to get up, and family support is essential,” he added.
The gala concluded with a traditional family photo of all attendees, marking the end of a night celebrating Spanish basketball legends.
