Juan Alberto “Juancho” Hernangómez Geuer, born on September 28, 1995, in Madrid, Spain, has carved out a unique and impressive career path in professional basketball. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 meters) and weighing 216 pounds (98 kg), the versatile power forward has navigated the demanding landscape of both the NBA and European leagues, while also making a significant mark in the world of cinema. His journey is a testament to his talent, resilience, and adaptability, captivating fans and earning him accolades on multiple fronts.
Early Beginnings and European Prominence
Hernangómez’s basketball journey began in 2007 with the youth teams of CB Las Rozas, later moving to Real Madrid’s youth squad before joining Club Baloncesto Majadahonda. His professional career took off with CB Estudiantes in Spain, where he signed his first professional contract in 2012. After competing with their second team, he was promoted to the main squad in 2014. During the 2015-16 season, Hernangómez averaged 9.7 points and 5.7 rebounds in 34 games, a performance that earned him the prestigious Liga ACB Best Young Player Award. This early success in Europe quickly put him on the radar of NBA scouts.
The NBA Chapter: A Journey Across Teams
In 2016, Juancho Hernangómez declared for the NBA draft and was selected by the Denver Nuggets with the 15th overall pick in the first round. He spent four seasons with the Nuggets, showcasing his shooting touch and hustle. His time in Denver included a notable performance in February 2017, where he scored a season-high 27 points and grabbed 10 rebounds against the Golden State Warriors, contributing to a Nuggets record for three-pointers in a game. However, his tenure was also marked by challenges, including a bout of mononucleosis that limited his playing time in the 2017-18 season.
Following his time with the Nuggets, Hernangómez embarked on a nomadic journey across several NBA franchises. He was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in February 2020, where he re-signed on a three-year deal. However, his 2020-21 season with the Timberwolves proved tumultuous, impacted by being out of shape, contracting COVID-19, and a falling out with the front office over his participation in the 2021 Olympics. Subsequent stops included the Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs, Utah Jazz, and Toronto Raptors, often through multi-team trades. Despite bouncing between teams, he consistently brought his energy and a willingness to contribute, tallying career NBA averages of 5.0 points and 3.3 rebounds over 339 games. His ability to hit the three-pointer, a valuable asset in the modern NBA, was also a highlight, with a career 3-point percentage of 34.2%. His final NBA season was with the Toronto Raptors in 2022-2023.
International Stardom: A Spanish National Team Cornerstone
Beyond his professional club career, Juancho Hernangómez has been a vital component of the Spanish national basketball team, consistently delivering impressive performances on the international stage. He has represented Spain in various tournaments, beginning with junior national teams at the FIBA Europe Under-18 Championship and Under-20 Championship. His impact significantly amplified with the senior national team.
He played a crucial role in Spain’s triumph at the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup, where they clinched the gold medal. His most memorable performance on the international stage, however, came at the EuroBasket 2022, where he led Spain to another gold medal, scoring a game-high 27 points in the final against France. These international successes have cemented his reputation as a clutch performer and a leader for his national squad. He also played in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup and the Paris 2024 Men’s Olympic Basketball Tournament, demonstrating his continued commitment to the national team.
The “Hustle” Phenomenon: Bo Cruz Takes the Screen
Perhaps one of the most unexpected, yet widely recognized, aspects of Juancho Hernangómez’s career is his starring role in the 2022 Netflix sports drama film “Hustle,” alongside Adam Sandler. In the film, Hernangómez plays “Bo Cruz,” a raw but incredibly talented basketball player discovered in Spain by Sandler’s character, an NBA scout.
His portrayal of Bo Cruz was met with widespread critical acclaim, with many praising his natural acting ability and on-screen presence. The film itself received positive reviews, and Sandler’s performance was particularly lauded. “Hustle” significantly elevated Hernangómez’s public profile, introducing him to a global audience beyond basketball enthusiasts. This venture into acting showcased a different facet of his talents and demonstrated his willingness to step outside his comfort zone, leaving a lasting impact on how he is perceived by the general public. The movie also featured a cameo from his real-life brother, Willy Hernangómez, further intertwining their careers.
Return to Europe: Panathinaikos and EuroLeague Glory
After seven seasons in the NBA, Juancho Hernangómez made a highly anticipated return to European basketball, signing a two-year deal with EuroLeague powerhouse Panathinaikos in July 2023. This move marked a new chapter in his career, allowing him to play a prominent role for a top-tier European club. His decision proved fruitful, as he quickly became an integral part of Panathinaikos’s success.
In 2024, Hernangómez achieved another significant milestone by winning the EuroLeague championship with Panathinaikos, a coveted title in European basketball. His strong performances also earned him an All-EuroLeague Second Team selection in 2025 and he became the EuroLeague rebounding leader in the same year. He also secured the Greek League champion title in 2024 and the Greek Cup in 2025 with Panathinaikos, highlighting his immediate and substantial impact since returning to Europe. In January 2025, he further solidified his commitment to Panathinaikos by renewing his contract through 2027.
The EuroLeague Star: Dominance with Panathinaikos
His decision to join Panathinaikos in July 2023 was a pivotal moment, signaling his intent to be a foundational piece for a top European club. This commitment was further solidified in January 2025 when he renewed his contract with the Greek powerhouse until 2027. This extension highlights not only his value to the team but also his personal happiness and desire to remain with a club where he has thrived.
The 2024-25 EuroLeague season has been particularly impressive for Hernangómez. He has emerged as a consistent force for Panathinaikos, demonstrating his all-around game and leadership. His strong performances earned him a well-deserved selection to the All-EuroLeague Second Team in 2025, a testament to his impact among Europe’s elite players. Furthermore, he led the EuroLeague in rebounding in 2025, showcasing his dedication on the glass and his relentless effort. These accolades prove that his move back to Europe was not a step down, but rather a strategic decision that allowed him to play a more central role and achieve significant team and individual success.
In the 2024-25 EuroLeague season, Hernangómez averaged notable statistics, including approximately 10.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game over 40 appearances. His efficiency from beyond the arc has also been a key factor, with a 3-point percentage of around 43%, making him a potent threat to stretch defenses. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively, coupled with his high basketball IQ, has made him indispensable to Panathinaikos’s system. He also earned the Game 1 MVP honors in the 2025 EuroLeague Playoffs with a career-high Performance Index Rating (PIR) of 40, showcasing his ability to deliver in crucial moments.
Beyond the EuroLeague, Hernangómez has also contributed to Panathinaikos’s domestic success, helping them secure the Greek League championship in 2024 and the Greek Cup in 2025. These titles further solidify his status as a key figure in the team’s recent dominance.
The Spanish National Team: A Consistent Pillar
Even with his club commitments, Juancho Hernangómez remains a dedicated member of the Spanish national team. His presence continues to be invaluable for Spain, providing veteran leadership, a strong defensive presence, and timely scoring. He participated in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup and was also part of the Spanish squad for the Paris 2024 Men’s Olympic Basketball Tournament, showcasing his unwavering commitment to representing his country at the highest level. His national team contributions, alongside his brother Willy, highlight a strong family legacy in Spanish basketball.
The “Hustle” Impact: Enduring Celebrity
The success of “Hustle” has given Juancho Hernangómez a unique dimension to his public persona. His role as “Bo Cruz” continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, introducing him to a demographic far beyond traditional basketball fans. This cinematic venture has broadened his appeal and made him a recognizable figure in popular culture. It’s a testament to his charisma and natural talent that he was able to seamlessly transition from professional athlete to successful actor. This duality sets him apart from many of his peers and has created an enduring fascination with his career.
Future Outlook and Personal Reflections
Looking ahead, Juancho Hernangómez seems content and firmly rooted in Athens with Panathinaikos. His contract extension until 2027 suggests a long-term commitment to the club and European basketball. While he has expressed a heartfelt desire to one day end his career with his hometown team, Estudiantes, to “close the circle” of his basketball journey, that chapter appears to be some years down the line. His current focus is clearly on building a lasting legacy with Panathinaikos and continuing to contribute to the Spanish national team’s success.
His journey serves as an inspiration, proving that success isn’t always linear. From the fluctuating demands of the NBA to embracing a starring role in Europe and even Hollywood, Juancho Hernangómez has demonstrated remarkable adaptability and resilience. He has cultivated a career that is as diverse as it is impressive, leaving an indelible mark on both the basketball court and the silver screen. His continued evolution and impact will undoubtedly be watched closely by fans around the globe.
FAQs
What are Juancho Hernangómez’s most notable achievements with Panathinaikos?
Since joining Panathinaikos, Juancho Hernangómez has achieved significant success. He was a key part of the team that won the EuroLeague championship in 2024, one of the most prestigious titles in European club basketball. In the 2024-25 season, he was also selected to the All-EuroLeague Second Team and led the EuroLeague in rebounding. Domestically, he has helped Panathinaikos win the Greek League championship in 2024 and the Greek Cup in 2025.
What is Juancho Hernangómez’s role on the Spanish national team?
Juancho Hernangómez is a vital member of the senior Spanish national basketball team. He played a crucial role in Spain’s gold medal victories at the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup and the EuroBasket 2022, where he famously scored a game-high 27 points in the final against France. He also represented Spain in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup and the Paris 2024 Men’s Olympic Basketball Tournament, consistently contributing his talent and leadership.
How did Juancho Hernangómez get the role in the Netflix movie “Hustle”?
Juancho Hernangómez’s casting in “Hustle” was quite unexpected, even for him. During the COVID-19 pandemic, while he was in quarantine with his family, his sister encouraged him to audition for the role “just for fun.” He initially resisted, as he was focused on his basketball career and had no acting experience. However, he eventually submitted an audition video that he recorded with his sister using a cell phone. The film’s producers, including Adam Sandler and LeBron James, were incredibly impressed by his natural talent and authenticity, leading to him being cast as “Bo Cruz.”
What is Juancho Hernangómez’s NBA career earnings?
During his seven seasons in the NBA, playing for teams like the Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs, Utah Jazz, and Toronto Raptors, Juancho Hernangómez earned over $25 million in total salary.
Juancho Hernangómez: Current Status and Legacy
As of June 2025, Juancho Hernangómez is actively playing for Panathinaikos in the Greek Basketball League and the EuroLeague. His career earnings from his time in the NBA amount to over $25 million, reflecting his multi-year presence in the league. He is known for his versatility as a power forward, his ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting, and his tenacious effort on both ends of the court. His contributions to the Spanish national team, particularly the 2019 FIBA World Cup and EuroBasket 2022 gold medals, have solidified his place as a national hero.
Beyond the court, his role as “Bo Cruz” in “Hustle” has indelibly linked him to the world of entertainment, making him a unique figure in the sports landscape. Juancho Hernangómez’s journey is a compelling narrative of athletic ambition, international success, and an unexpected foray into acting. He continues to be a prominent figure in the basketball world, with his recent EuroLeague championship and ongoing contributions to Panathinaikos and the Spanish national team underscoring his enduring impact on the sport.
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