39 years since Fernando Martin's NBA debut
On 31 October 1986, the Madridista legend made history by becoming the first Spanish player in the US league.
Today marks the 39th anniversary of Fernando Martín's debut in the NBA. On 31 October 1986, the centre became the first Spanish player to play a game in this competition. The Madridista legend debuted with the Portland Trail Blazers in the US league, and the Seattle SuperSonics were his first opponent in the 25 games he played in the American championship.
Before his departure for the NBA, Fernando Martín made history with Real Madrid over five seasons. In 1987 he returned to the club to cap a legendary career, which was cut short by his tragic death on 3 December 1989. He won 4 league titles, 1 Intercontinental Cup, 2 Cup Winners' Cups, 1 Korac Cup, 3 Copa del Rey and 1 Spanish Super Cup.