When Juan Hernangomez’s name was called out by NBA commissioner Adam Silver on Thursday night during the 2016 NBA Draft, Denver reporters and fans alike murmured, “Who?” The 6-foot-9 forward wasn’t one of the high profile names, but his family’s history with basketball is rich. Hernangomez is the brother of 2015 76ers draftee, Willy, and the son of Spanish professional player, Guillermo.
In post-draft interviews, Hernangomez recalled childhood memories where he and his brother dreamed of being able to play together in the NBA. But even getting the chance to play against him this season would be a “dream come true,” and he likes the possibility of becoming the next Marc and Pau Gasol.
“It’s really different to play against your brother. I got the opportunity to play against him, and then play together on the national team,” Hernangomez said. “So we are really proud to be the next brothers.”
It should come as no surprise that Nuggets general manager Tim Connelly and his staff drafted a foreign player. Five players off last season’s roster were international, including last year’s No. 7 draft pick, Emmanuel Mudiay.
Hernangomez made a name for himself on Movistar Estudiantes, in Spain, averaging 14.2 points and 8.5 rebounds per game.
It is unclear whether Hernangomez will be a permanent part of the Nuggets’ roster post summer league. And if he does stay, Hernangomez said that he is unsure of the timeline for when he would make his debut in the Mile High City.
“I want to keep working, and I don’t know where,” Hernangomez said. “For me, if I got any possibilities to go to the NBA with Denver, I got it.”
When asked to describe his game, Hernangomez said that he is a complete player who works hard, can do a little bit of everything and will leave everything he’s got on the floor.
