35 years without Fernando Martín
On 3 December 1989, the Real Madrid legend was killed in a traffic accident.
Today marks 35 years since the passing of a legend of the Real Madrid basketball team. On 3 December 1989, Fernando Martín died in a traffic accident. Madridistas bid farewell to one of their heroes at just 27 years of age. The tragic event occurred while he was on his way to the Palacio de los Deportes to attend the match between Real Madrid and CAI Zaragoza.
Fernando Martín made his mark at the club and in Spanish basketball because of his quality, courage and personality. With Madrid, he lifted 4 League titles, 1 Intercontinental Cup, 2 Cup Winners' Cups, 1 Korac Cup, 3 Copa del Rey trophies and 1 Spanish Super Cup. He was a leader on the court and an idol of the fans, Real Madrid decided to retire the jersey with his number 10 as a tribute.
NBA
Aside from his time as a Madridista, Fernando Martín holds a prominent place in the history of Spanish sport, as he was the first Spanish player to make his debut in the NBA in 1986. He was also a member of the Spanish national team that obtained the silver medal at the 1984 Olympic Games. His record with the national team is rounded off with a silver medal at the 1983 European Championship.