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Sergio Rodríguez
Sergio Rodríguez
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Sergio Rodríguez Gómez (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈseɾxjo roˈðɾiɣeθ]; born 12 June 1986) is a Spanish former professional basketball player who played for 21 seasons, most notably in the EuroLeague, and for Real Madrid in the Spanish Liga ACB, but also had two short stints in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Standing at 1.91 m (6 ft 3 in), he played at the point guard position. Rodriguez, nicknamed "El Chacho",[1] won the EuroLeague title in 2015, and was an All-EuroLeague First Team selection, as well as the EuroLeague MVP the year before.

Key Information

Rodríguez was a regular member of the senior Spain national team, with whom he won a FIBA World Cup title in 2006, an Olympics silver medal in 2012, as well as a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. He also won a EuroBasket title in 2015, a silver medal in 2007, and a bronze medal in 2013. He earned an All-EuroBasket Team selection in 2015.

Professional career

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Estudiantes (2003–2006)

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Prior to joining the Portland Trail Blazers, Rodríguez was chosen to play for the 2004 World Junior Select team to play against the best high school players at the Nike Hoop Summit, located in the United States. Before joining the NBA, Rodríguez also played professional basketball at the senior club level for Estudiantes of the Spanish League, in which he played a final against FC Barcelona in the 2003–04 season, and won the ACB Rising Star Award for the 2004–05 season.

Portland Trail Blazers (2006–2009)

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Rodríguez with Trail Blazers' teammates Rudy Fernández, LaMarcus Aldridge and Channing Frye in January 2008

Rodríguez was selected with the 27th pick in the first round, by the Phoenix Suns, in the 2006 NBA draft (and later that day traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for cash considerations). On July 20, 2006, it was announced that the Trail Blazers had negotiated a buyout with his Spanish League club Estudiantes, and signed him to an NBA rookie-scale contract.

Throughout his spell at Portland, he did not earn much playing time, primarily playing as back-up point-guard. He was sidelined by the likes of Jarrett Jack or Steve Blake, who were favoured by coach Nate McMillan.[2][3] He developed great court chemistry with fellow Spaniard Rudy Fernández.[4]

Rodríguez did not get along with McMillan, who had had a profile of low-risk point guard in his playing career.[5] In the view of Rodríguez, McMillan was more "unjust than just" towards him, although—conveying a mixed balance—he pointed out that McMillan still gave him some opportunities after the arrival of highly touted prospect Jerryd Bayless.[5] Retrospectively, McMillan shared the opinion that Rodríguez had entered the NBA "too young", allegedly undeveloped as player.[3]

Sacramento Kings and New York Knicks (2009–2010)

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On June 25, 2009, Rodríguez was traded, along with the 37th pick in the 2009 NBA draft, and cash considerations, to the Sacramento Kings for the 31st pick in the 2009 NBA draft.[6] In 39 games played for the Kings, he averaged 6 points and 3.1 assists per game.

On February 18, 2010, Rodríguez was traded to the New York Knicks, along with Tracy McGrady, in a 3-team trade deal.[7] He appeared in 27 games for the Knicks, averaging 7.4 points and 3.4 assists per game.

Real Madrid (2010–2016)

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Rodríguez with Real Madrid in May 2011

On July 5, 2010, after spending four seasons in the NBA, Rodríguez signed a 3-year contract with the Spanish team Real Madrid.[8] In July 2012, he signed a 2-year contract extension with Real Madrid, extending his contract through the 2014–15 season.[9]

On January 9, 2014, he signed an extension with Real Madrid, staying in the club until 2018.[10] In May 2014, alongside his teammate Rudy Fernández, he was named to the All-EuroLeague First Team of the EuroLeague.[11] Prior to the 2014 Final Four, he was named the EuroLeague MVP of the season, after averaging 14 points, 4.9 assists, and 2 rebounds per game, over 31 games played, despite not starting in any game.[12]

In the 2014–15 season, Real Madrid won the EuroLeague, after defeating Olympiacos, by a score of 78–59 in the 2015 finals game.[13] Real Madrid eventually finished the season by also winning the season's Spanish League championship, after a 3–0 series sweep in the Spanish League's final series against Barcelona. With that title win, Real Madrid won the triple crown.[14]

Philadelphia 76ers (2016–2017)

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On 13 July 2016, Rodríguez signed with the Philadelphia 76ers.[15] He made his debut for the 76ers in their season opener on 26 October 2016, recording 12 points and nine assists in a 103–97 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.[16] On April 8, 2017, Rodriguez was ruled out for the final three games of the season due to knee soreness after playing 68 games and starting a career high 30 games for the franchise.

CSKA Moscow (2017–2019)

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On July 17, 2017, Rodríguez signed with CSKA Moscow.[17] In May 2018, he was named the All-EuroLeague Second Team for the 2017–18 season.[18]

Olimpia Milano (2019–2022)

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On July 12, 2019, Rodriguez signed a three-year deal with the Italian basketball team, Pallacanestro Olimpia Milano.[19] In his first game with Milano, Rodriguez recorded 21 points and 4 assists in a 75–53 win over the De' Longhi Treviso.[20] On July 2, 2022, Rodriguez amicably parted ways with the Italian club after three seasons, having also served as the team's captain.

Return to Real Madrid (2022–2024)

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On 18 July 2022, Rodriguez returned to Real Madrid on a one-year deal.[21]

On 19 June 2024, Rodríguez announced his retirement from professional basketball.[22]

National team career

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Rodríguez with the Spain national team in 2012

Thought to be one of the best European prospects of his age, Rodríguez was named the MVP of the 2004 FIBA Europe Under-18 Championship, which was held in Zaragoza, Spain, while playing with the Spain national junior team. He led the host Spanish team to the tournament's gold medal. In the eight games of that tournament, he averaged 19 points per game, 4.6 rebounds per game, 8.5 assists per game, and 2.1 steals per game.

In August 2006, Rodríguez won the gold medal at the 2006 FIBA World Championship, while playing with the senior men's Spain national team. He also won the silver medal with Spain's senior national team at the EuroBasket 2007. In 2012, he won a silver medal at the Summer Olympics in London. In 2016, he won a bronze medal at the Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Rodríguez decided to skip the 2019 World Cup, citing a need to rest.[23] He was called up by Sergio Scariolo for the 2020 Summer Olympics,[24] celebrated in 2021.

Player profile

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An adept to pick and roll plays and with a flair for passing,[25] Rodríguez has mastered the art of feeding athletic big-men and small-forwards with alley-oops.[26] Owing to his passing ability and flashy dribbling, he drew comparisons to Jason Williams.[27] Throughout his Euroleague career he has had a high assist per turnover ratio and he has also excelled as scorer, presenting high 3-point field-goal and free-throw percentages.[26]

Career statistics

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Legend
  GP Games played   GS  Games started  MPG  Minutes per game
 FG%  Field-goal percentage  3P%  3-point field-goal percentage  FT%  Free-throw percentage
 RPG  Rebounds per game  APG  Assists per game  SPG  Steals per game
 BPG  Blocks per game  PPG  Points per game  PIR  Performance index rating
 Bold  Career high

NBA

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Regular season

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Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2006–07 Portland 67 1 12.9 .423 .282 .808 1.4 3.3 .5 .0 3.7
2007–08 Portland 72 0 8.7 .352 .293 .658 .8 1.7 .3 .0 2.5
2008–09 Portland 80 13 15.3 .392 .325 .792 1.6 3.6 .7 .0 4.5
2009–10 Sacramento 39 0 13.3 .463 .357 .694 1.3 3.1 .7 .1 6.0
2009–10 New York 27 8 19.7 .491 .347 .806 1.4 3.4 .8 .1 7.4
2016–17 Philadelphia 68 30 22.3 .392 .365 .667 2.3 5.1 .7 .1 7.8
Career 353 52 15.0 .409 .337 .739 1.5 3.4 .6 .0 4.9

Playoffs

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Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2009 Portland 5 0 5.4 .333 .000 .000 .6 1.4 .0 .2 .8
Career 5 0 5.4 .333 .000 .000 .6 1.4 .0 .2 .8

EuroLeague

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Denotes season in which Rodríguez won the EuroLeague
* Led the league
Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG PIR
2004–05 Estudiantes 14 5 17.4 .419 .318 .636 1.9 2.8 1.2 6.4 5.7
2010–11 Real Madrid 18 10 18.8 .413 .200 .938 1.9 3.1 .5 6.1 6.2
2011–12 16 5 20.1 .494 .469 .821 1.5 5.4 .8 7.4 9.9
2012–13 29 4 18.2 .374 .295 .875 1.8 3.9 .7 7.5 7.2
2013–14 31* 0 22.5 .498 .500 .906 2.0 4.9 1.2 .1 14.0 15.9
2014–15 28 2 21.6 .438 .381 .836 1.4 5.1 1.0 .0 11.1 12.1
2015–16 27 10 23.9 .446 .409 .741 2.2 6.2 .7 .1 10.9 14.0
2017–18 CSKA Moscow 36* 22 26.0 .491 .438 .897 2.0 4.9 .8 .1 13.8 13.8
2018–19 35 10 21.9 .421 .392 .878 1.5 4.5 .7 .1 10.2 9.1
2019–20 Milano 28* 20 25.6 .419 .374 .961 2.3 5.4 .9 .1 13.0 13.7
2020–21 37 3 19.9 .446 .354 .906 2.0 4.5 .8 .1 9.7 10.8
2021–22 34 5 20.2 .412 .318 .760 2.3 4.5 .7 .1 8.3 9.1
2022–23 Real Madrid 40 3 14.8 .434 .368 .833 1.5 4.4 .5 4.9 6.8
2023–24 32 0 15.2 .356 .356 .875 1.4 4.3 .5 4.4 4.5
Career 405 99 20.5 .437 .384 .853 1.8 4.6 .8 .0 9.3 10.1

Domestic leagues

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Season Team League GP MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2004–05 Adecco Estudiantes ACB 34 19.6 .547 .317 .780 1.6 2.9 1.1 .0 8.9
2005–06 34 23.5 .454 .306 .676 2.4 4.9 1.3 .1 9.2
2010–11 Real Madrid 31 18.9 .418 .333 .854 1.4 2.7 .7 .1 7.0
2011–12 34 18.1 .413 .302 .766 1.9 3.8 .7 .1 5.8
2012–13 34 18.5 .478 .442 .889 1.9 4.0 1.1 .0 9.1
2013–14 34 22.9 .497 .377 .864 1.9 6.1 1.5 .1 12.7
2014–15 31 21.7 .404 .388 .825 2.0 5.3 1.1 .0 9.9
2015–16 31 24.5 .504 .405 .895 2.0 6.1 .8 .0 12.1

Awards and accomplishments

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Professional career

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Spanish junior national team

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Spanish senior national team

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Sergio Rodríguez Gómez (born 12 June 1986) is a Spanish former professional player who primarily played as a and current of Real Madrid's team. Nicknamed "El Chacho", he enjoyed a 21-year career marked by success in Europe's top competitions and stints in the NBA, culminating in three championships and multiple medals with Spain's national team before his retirement in 2024. Born in on the island of , Rodríguez began his professional journey with Estudiantes in Spain's , debuting in the 2003–04 season at age 17 and quickly establishing himself as a dynamic with exceptional passing and scoring ability. In the , he was selected 27th overall by the , with his rights immediately traded to the , where he spent three seasons (2006–2009) as a backup guard, averaging 4.9 points and 3.4 assists per across 353 NBA appearances. His NBA tenure also included brief stints with the and (both 2009–10) and (2016–17), but Rodríguez thrived most prominently in , playing for Real (2010–2016 and 2022–2024), (2017–2019), and (2019–2022), where he won league titles and earned acclaim for his clutch performances in high-stakes s. With Real , he secured four championships and five Spanish Cups, while at CSKA, he captured two Russian League titles; overall, his club accolades include three titles—in 2015 and 2023 with Real , and 2019 with CSKA—along with the 2014 award. On the international stage, Rodríguez represented Spain from 2006 onward, amassing 156 caps and contributing to one of the nation's most dominant eras in basketball. He won gold medals at the 2006 FIBA World Championship and the 2015 EuroBasket, silver medals at the 2007 EuroBasket and the 2012 Summer Olympics, and bronze medals at the 2013 and 2017 EuroBaskets as well as the 2016 Summer Olympics. His versatility as a quick, creative guard made him a key rotational player in Spain's "Generation of 1986" alongside stars like Pau Gasol and Ricky Rubio, helping the team achieve consistent podium finishes in major tournaments. Rodríguez announced his retirement on 19 June 2024, following Real Madrid's Spanish League title win, reflecting on a career defined by passion for the game and memorable Final Four appearances across nine EuroLeagues. In July 2025, he was appointed as Real Madrid's sporting director for basketball.

Early life and youth career

Early life

Sergio Rodríguez Gómez was born on June 12, 1986, in , , , . He is the son of Sergio Rodríguez and Puchi Gómez, both amateur players who met on a and instilled a strong family emphasis on the sport from his earliest days. His father, a former amateur player, worked as a teacher at the Colegio La Salle San Ildefonso in nearby , where the family actively supported Sergio's budding interest in athletics alongside everyday childhood activities. Rodríguez began his introduction to basketball through the school's team, affiliated with the local Club Baloncesto Unelco (later known as ), marking his first experiences with organized play and training in the island's youth circuits. While attending the Colegio La Salle San Ildefonso and other local schools, he balanced formal education with these initial sports pursuits, developing foundational skills under familial guidance before advancing to more structured programs.

Youth career

Sergio Rodríguez began his organized training in the of La Salle San Ildefonso in , where his family's encouragement played a key role in fostering his early passion for the sport. By his early teens, he had advanced to the lower categories of Baloncesto, competing in regional junior competitions and demonstrating initial promise as a skilled guard. In 2000, at age 14, Rodríguez was identified through scouting with the youth selections and joined the acclaimed Siglo XXI youth academy in , Bizkaia—a collaborative program backed by the Basque Basketball Federation and local institutions to nurture national talents. Relocating from , he resided at the Fadura sports complex for three years, undergoing intensive training under coaches Txus Rojo, Carmelo Echevarría, and Julio Calleja, who emphasized technical refinement and physical conditioning to address his initial lack of size. During this formative period, Rodríguez participated in key youth tournaments across , where his fluid style and quick adaptation to complex drills stood out, solidifying his reputation as an emerging . Rodríguez's move to the Adecco Estudiantes youth academy in occurred in 2003, at age 17, marking a pivotal step toward professional pathways. In the Spanish junior leagues, including EBA-2 competitions with the club's developmental team, he delivered standout performances, often leading in assists and scoring with his precise ball-handling and vision—averaging double-digit points and assists in select junior showcases that drew attention from scouts. His rapid improvement in playmaking, characterized by seamless passes and creative decision-making under pressure, earned him early recognition as one of Spain's premier young point guards, with invitations to observe senior team practices at Estudiantes beginning that season.

Professional career

Estudiantes (2003–2006)

Sergio Rodríguez joined Estudiantes as a professional player at the age of 17 during the 2003–04 season, transitioning from the club's youth academy where he had developed his skills. His senior debut in the came on June 13, 2004, in Game 5 of the ACB Finals against , entering as a substitute in the final seconds at nearly 18 years old. Initially serving as a behind veteran Pedro García, Rodríguez provided energy and playmaking off the bench, contributing to Estudiantes' run to the ACB Finals that year, where they fell 3–2 to despite his brief but notable appearance. In the 2004–05 regular season, Rodríguez emerged as a key rotation player, appearing in all 34 games for Estudiantes while averaging 19.6 minutes, 8.9 points, and 2.9 assists per game. His efficient scoring (54.7% ) and growing facilitation skills helped the team secure a playoff spot, finishing sixth in the standings before being eliminated in the quarterfinals by Unicaja Málaga. That season, he earned the ACB's Revelation Player of the Year award, recognizing his rapid adaptation to professional competition and potential as a creative . The 2005–06 campaign marked Rodríguez's breakout year, as he transitioned to a starting role and averaged 23.5 minutes, 9.2 points, and a team-high 4.9 assists per game across 34 appearances. His vision and passing ability stood out, ranking him fourth in the league in total assists behind players like , while Estudiantes finished eighth in the regular season and advanced to the quarterfinals, losing to Real Madrid. This performance solidified his reputation in Spanish basketball and drew international attention. Rodríguez's three seasons with Estudiantes culminated in the 2006 NBA Draft, where he was selected 27th overall in the first round by the before his rights were immediately traded to the in exchange for cash considerations. This move ended his European tenure on a high note, having evolved from a promising backup to a starting-caliber .

Portland Trail Blazers (2006–2009)

Rodríguez was selected by the with the 27th overall pick in the before being traded to the on draft day in exchange for cash considerations. He impressed during the , which helped secure his roster spot, and signed a three-year contract with Portland on July 31, 2006. As a , Rodríguez adapted to the NBA's pace and physicality while serving primarily as a backup behind starter during the 2006–07 season. In his debut campaign, Rodríguez appeared in 67 games off the bench, averaging 3.7 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.4 rebounds in 12.9 minutes per game. His playmaking skills shone through in transition, though turnovers and shooting efficiency posed challenges in adjusting to the league's defensive intensity. A standout performance came on January 14, 2007, when he scored a then-career-high 23 points against the , showcasing his scoring potential with drives and mid-range jumpers. The 2007–08 season brought reduced opportunities for Rodríguez, who played in 72 games with averages of 2.5 points and 1.7 assists in just 8.7 minutes per game, as coaching decisions limited his role amid Portland's rebuilding efforts around young talents like and . He started only one game that year, focusing on development in practice while contributing sporadically in spot minutes. The Trail Blazers improved to a 41–41 record but missed the playoffs for the sixth consecutive season. Rodríguez's minutes rebounded in 2008–09, appearing in all 80 regular-season games and starting 13, while averaging 4.5 points, 3.6 assists, and 1.6 rebounds in 15.3 minutes per game. However, the signing of veteran as the primary backup to starter curtailed his consistent playing time, leading to frustrations over his limited role in a now-contending roster. In November 2008, his agent publicly requested a trade to seek more opportunities elsewhere. Portland reached the playoffs that year, defeating the in the first round, but Rodríguez saw minimal action with 0.8 points and 1.4 assists across five games. On June 25, 2009, the Trail Blazers traded Rodríguez, along with the draft rights to and cash considerations, to the in exchange for the draft rights to Jeff Pendergraph.

Sacramento Kings and New York Knicks (2009–2010)

After being traded from the Portland Trail Blazers to the Sacramento Kings on June 25, 2009, in exchange for the draft rights to Jeff Pendergraph, Sergio Rodríguez joined a rebuilding Kings team seeking to bolster its backcourt depth. During the 2009–10 season, he appeared in 39 games for Sacramento, primarily coming off the bench, where he averaged 6.0 points, 3.1 assists, and 1.3 rebounds in 13.3 minutes per game, while shooting 46.3% from the field and 35.7% from three-point range. His role was limited behind starters Beno Udrih and rookie Tyreke Evans, contributing to ongoing frustrations from his Portland tenure where inconsistent minutes had stunted his development. On February 18, 2010, Rodríguez was traded to the in a three-team deal where the Knicks acquired from the ; Sacramento sent Kevin Martin and to Houston and Rodríguez to the Knicks; and the Knicks sent Jordan Hill, , a 2011 first-round pick (via Houston), and cash to Sacramento. With New York, he provided bench spark in 27 games, averaging 7.4 points, 3.4 assists, and 1.4 rebounds in 19.7 minutes, improving his field-goal percentage to 49.1% and free-throw accuracy to 80.6%, though his three-point shooting remained at 34.7%. Limited opportunities persisted behind and later , as Rodríguez adjusted to yet another coaching system and team dynamic amid the Knicks' push for playoff contention. Across 66 total NBA games that season between the two teams, Rodríguez averaged 6.7 points and 3.2 assists with an effective field-goal percentage of .523, but the frequent transitions and bench roles highlighted the challenges of establishing a consistent presence in the league. Seeking greater playing time and a return to familiar European , Rodríguez mutually parted ways with the Knicks in the summer of 2010 and signed a three-year with Real Madrid.

Real Madrid (2010–2016)

On July 2, 2010, after four seasons in the NBA, Sergio Rodríguez signed a three-year contract with Real Madrid, marking his return to European basketball. He immediately assumed the role of starting , leveraging his NBA-honed playmaking skills to orchestrate the team's offense alongside stars like and Rudy Fernández. In his debut 2010–11 season, Rodríguez averaged 10.6 points and 4.6 assists per game in the , helping Real Madrid reach the Spanish League finals and the final, though they fell short in both. The 2011–12 season brought Rodríguez's first major titles with Real Madrid, including the , where he contributed 12 points and 5 assists in the final victory over , and the Spanish Super Cup. Although Real Madrid finished as runners-up to that year, Rodríguez's vision and speed established him as a core leader. Building momentum, the 2012–13 campaign saw Real Madrid claim the title for the first time in Rodríguez's stint, with him providing key assists in the playoff run; they also defended the Spanish Super Cup. In 2013–14, Rodríguez elevated his game to become the , averaging 12.7 points and a league-leading 6.1 assists per game in the Spanish League, while guiding Real to the as runners-up to . He earned All- First Team honors and the Spanish Super Cup MVP award that season. The following year, 2014–15, culminated in Real 's EuroLeague championship win—the club's ninth—at the in , where Rodríguez averaged 12.4 points and 5.1 assists across the tournament, complemented by victories in the , , Spanish Super Cup, and Intercontinental Cup. Rodríguez capped his first Real Madrid tenure in 2015–16 by leading the Spanish League in assists at 5.1 per game and securing another title, , and Spanish Super Cup, for a total of 12 major trophies over six seasons. His departure to the in 2016 ended a transformative period where he solidified his status as one of Europe's premier point guards, known for his quickness, passing precision, and clutch performances.

Philadelphia 76ers (2016–2017)

On July 12, 2016, Rodríguez signed a one-year, $8 million contract with the , marking his return to the NBA after six seasons in . This move reunited him with head coach , who had served as an assistant during Rodríguez's earlier stint with the from 2006 to 2009. As a 30-year-old veteran , Rodríguez joined a rebuilding 76ers roster featuring young talents like and , providing leadership and playmaking from the backcourt. During the 2016–17 season, Rodríguez appeared in 68 games for , starting 30 of them and averaging 22.3 minutes per game. He contributed 7.8 points, 2.3 rebounds, and a team-high 5.1 assists per game among regular rotation players, showcasing his quickness and passing ability in pick-and-roll situations to support the team's developing offense. Often coming off the bench behind , Rodríguez proved valuable in stabilizing the point guard position amid injuries to other guards like , helping the young squad navigate a challenging 28–54 finish. His efficient scoring and low-turnover play—averaging just 1.7 turnovers—highlighted his experience, though defensive limitations were noted in a fast-paced NBA environment. Rodríguez's season was interrupted late by injuries, including a strained left and knee soreness that sidelined him for the final games. The 76ers did not qualify for the , ending their campaign on April 12, 2017. Upon becoming an unrestricted on July 1, 2017, Rodríguez was not re-signed by and opted to return to , agreeing to a three-year deal with shortly thereafter.

CSKA Moscow (2017–2019)

On July 17, 2017, Sergio Rodríguez signed a two-year contract with an option for a third year with CSKA Moscow, marking him as the first Spanish player in the club's history. Following a bench role during his stint with the Philadelphia 76ers, Rodríguez was slotted as the starting point guard to replace Miloš Teodosić, who had departed for the NBA's Los Angeles Clippers. His arrival brought veteran leadership and creative playmaking to a CSKA squad already dominant in Russian and European basketball, allowing him to adapt quickly to the EuroLeague's high-intensity style after limited minutes in the NBA. In the 2017–18 season, Rodríguez excelled as CSKA's floor general, averaging 13.8 points and 4.9 assists per game across 36 appearances. His vision and tempo control were pivotal in CSKA's campaign, culminating in a championship, where he earned MVP honors for his standout performances in the playoffs. This success highlighted his seamless transition to Russia's top domestic competition, blending scoring bursts with elite distribution to elevate teammates like . The 2018–19 season saw Rodríguez help CSKA secure their eighth EuroLeague title, defeating Anadolu Efes 91–83 in the Final Four championship game in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain—his second EuroLeague crown overall after 2015 with Real Madrid. Averaging 10.2 points and 4.5 assists per game over 35 EuroLeague contests, he delivered clutch contributions during the playoffs, including 23 points in the semi-final victory over his former club Real Madrid. CSKA also repeated as VTB United League champions that year, underscoring Rodríguez's role in sustaining the team's dominance. Rodríguez departed CSKA in July 2019 via mutual agreement, as the club declined to exercise the third-year option on his contract. Over two seasons, he captured two major trophies: the 2019 title and the 2018 crown, leaving a legacy as a key architect of CSKA's continental and regional triumphs.

Olimpia Milano (2019–2022)

On July 12, 2019, Rodríguez signed a three-year contract with , joining the Italian club ahead of the 2019–20 season and committing through 2022. This move marked his return to the after two seasons in , bringing his extensive experience as a to a team aiming to elevate its standing in both domestic and European competitions. Rodríguez quickly integrated, showcasing his signature playmaking and scoring ability from the perimeter, while helping stabilize the backcourt during a period of roster changes under coach . The 2019–20 campaign was disrupted by the , with the season suspended in March 2020 and ultimately declared over without playoffs or a champion. Despite the abbreviated schedule, Rodríguez excelled as a facilitator, averaging 5.9 assists per game in 18 domestic appearances, contributing to Milano's strong regular-season finish that positioned them for contention had the season continued. In the EuroLeague, he adapted to the high-pressure environment, using his prior continental expertise to mentor younger teammates and maintain offensive flow amid the disruptions. In the 2020–21 season, under new coach , Rodríguez's leadership became pivotal during the team's transition to a more competitive roster. He ranked in the EuroLeague's top 10 for assists with 4.3 per game across 33 outings, orchestrating plays that highlighted Milano's improved ball movement. His efforts culminated in a key role during the Italian Cup victory in February 2021, where Milano defeated Aquila Basket Trento 88–72 in the final, securing the club's first such title since 1996. Rodríguez contributed 12 points and 5 assists in the championship game, exemplifying his ability to elevate the team in high-stakes domestic tournaments. The 2021–22 season saw Rodríguez embrace a co-captaincy role alongside , providing veteran guidance as Milano pursued deeper runs in both leagues. Averaging 11.5 points, 5.4 assists, and 2.6 rebounds per game in , he delivered consistent scoring and distribution that supported the team's playoff push. In the , Milano advanced to the for the first time since , facing Anadolu Efes in the quarterfinals but falling in four games; Rodríguez averaged 9.7 points and 4.7 assists across the series, underscoring his enduring impact. By summer 2022, with his contract expiring, Rodríguez opted to depart Milano, prioritizing a return to his longtime club Real for what would become a sentimental homecoming.

Return to Real Madrid (2022–2024)

On July 18, 2022, Sergio Rodríguez signed a one-year contract to return to Real Madrid as a backup , marking an emotional homecoming after six years away and a previous stint with the club from 2010 to 2016 where he won multiple titles including the 2015 . In the 2022–2023 season, Rodríguez played limited minutes off the bench but offered veteran leadership and key assists during the ACB , helping Real Madrid reach the final against , though they lost the series 0–3. His contributions extended to the , where he averaged 5.0 points and 3.9 assists per game over 37 appearances, culminating in a pivotal role in the team's 11th title win with a 79–78 victory over Olympiacos in the final. Rodríguez extended his contract on July 12, 2023, for one more year until June 30, 2024, allowing him to close his career at the club. The 2023–2024 campaign served as his farewell season, during which he averaged 4.4 points and 4.3 assists in 32 games while providing crucial bench support. In the , he appeared in 36 regular-season and playoff games, averaging around 4.1 points, as Real Madrid captured the league title with a 3–0 sweep of in the finals. Rodríguez's final competitive appearance came in Game 3 of the ACB playoff finals on June 12, 2024, where Real Madrid secured the championship, and he joined teammates in lifting the trophy. The club honored him with a special tribute ceremony on June 26, 2024, at Real Madrid City, recognizing his eight seasons and legacy as one of the team's greatest legends.

Retirement (2024)

On June 19, 2024, Sergio Rodríguez announced his retirement from professional via , concluding his career after the 2023–24 season with Real Madrid, where the team secured the ACB League title in the finals against UCAM Murcia. In his statement, Rodríguez expressed gratitude for the journey, stating, "Thank you for this incredible journey. The day has come, this is the moment in which I put an end to my sporting career," and noted that he had always dreamed of retiring in good physical condition following a victory in his final game—a wish fulfilled by the championship win. He attributed the decision in part to prioritizing family time after two decades of professional play, while reflecting on the personal fulfillment from his achievements across , the NBA, and with Spain's national team. Real Madrid organized a farewell ceremony on June 26, 2024, at Real Madrid City to honor Rodríguez's contributions. The event included speeches from club president , who lauded Rodríguez as one of European basketball's greats and thanked him for his "magic" on the court, while wishing him success in his next chapter with family and loved ones. A highlights reel showcased key moments from his tenure, prompting emotional responses from attendees, including teammates and staff. Rodríguez delivered a heartfelt address, thanking his family—particularly his brother Javi—coaches, agents, and the Real Madrid organization for supporting his 15 seasons with the club, during which he won multiple domestic and European honors. Reflecting on his overall career, Rodríguez emphasized the 21 professional seasons that spanned major leagues worldwide, including three EuroLeague championships (2015 and 2023 with Real Madrid, 2019 with ), four Spanish League titles, and his NBA playoff run with the in 2009, where he appeared in five games during the first round against . These milestones, he noted, represented a "perfect closure" to a journey filled with unforgettable moments and growth. While focusing on family in the immediate aftermath, Rodríguez hinted at potential future involvement in through coaching or management; in July 2025, he was appointed as Real Madrid's basketball sporting director.

Post-playing career

Real Madrid sporting director (2025–present)

Following his retirement from professional in June 2024, Sergio Rodríguez transitioned directly into a front-office role at Real Madrid, where he was appointed as the of the basketball section on July 2, 2025, succeeding Herreros after the latter's 19-year tenure. The appointment was announced via an official club statement, highlighting Rodríguez's status as a club legend with over a decade of playing experience at Real Madrid, during which he won 17 titles including two EuroLeagues. In his position, Rodríguez oversees key aspects of the basketball operations, including player recruitment, , and to restore the team's dominance in European competitions. Early in his tenure, he played a pivotal role in the 2025 offseason roster enhancements, with Real Madrid securing agreements for Théo Maledon on a two-year deal through 2027 on July 7, forward Gabriele Procida on a three-year with NBA opt-outs on , and Trey Lyles on a one-year pact on September 10. These signings aimed to bolster the backcourt depth and frontcourt versatility ahead of the 2025–26 season. Rodríguez has emphasized his commitment to the club's values, stating in a September 2025 interview that the role represents "an exciting challenge" he is approaching "with great enthusiasm and a huge level of commitment." His vision focuses on leveraging his playing insights to foster long-term success, including enhanced youth development integration into the senior squad. As of November 2025, Rodríguez continues to navigate the balance between honoring his on-court legacy and making tough executive decisions to elevate the team's competitiveness.

International career

Youth national teams

Rodríguez began his international youth career with the Spanish under-18 national team at the 2004 FIBA Europe Under-18 Championship held in , where he led the team to a gold medal victory over in the final. Named the tournament MVP, he averaged 19 points, 4.6 rebounds, and a tournament-high 8.5 assists per game across eight contests, showcasing his emerging playmaking skills. The following year, Rodríguez transitioned to the under-20 level, competing in the 2005 FIBA Europe Under-20 Championship in , where finished ninth. In eight games, he contributed 11.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, ranking second in the tournament in total assists with 33. These performances further solidified his reputation as a creative capable of orchestrating offenses on the international stage.

Senior national team

Rodríguez made his debut with the senior national team at the in , where he served primarily as a bench player in a gold medal-winning campaign, contributing energetic plays including passes that highlighted his playmaking ability. defeated 70–47 in the final to secure their first World Championship title. Rodríguez also participated in the 2007 EuroBasket, where Spain won silver. From 2012 to 2014, Rodríguez emerged as a starting point guard during Spain's continued contention for major titles, participating in the (silver), the 2013 (bronze), and the 2014 World Championship (5th place). His steady presence helped maintain Spain's status as a global powerhouse, averaging notable assists in high-stakes games. In his later international years from 2015 to 2021, Rodríguez remained a vital contributor, earning gold at the , bronze at the , bronze at the , gold at the (defeating 95–75 in the final), and silver at the in . He announced his from the national team in August 2021, shortly after the Tokyo Games, having accumulated 154 caps and seven medals overall. This decision meant he did not participate in the or the .

Player profile

Playing style

Sergio Rodríguez was a quintessential European whose playing style emphasized creativity, pace, and facilitation on the offensive end. As a floor general, he thrived in orchestrating team offenses, leveraging his quick decision-making and ability to read defenses to create scoring opportunities for teammates. His approach was particularly suited to the EuroLeague's emphasis on ball movement and tactical execution, where he often dictated tempo to exploit mismatches. Rodríguez's primary strengths lay in his elite court vision and passing prowess, allowing him to deliver pinpoint assists in transition and half-court sets. He mastered the pick-and-roll, using his ball-handling and timing to collapse defenses and set up rollers or shooters with precision, often resulting in high-percentage looks for his big men. Complementing this was his effectiveness as a shooter, where he consistently converted pull-ups and floaters with reliable touch, contributing to his scoring efficiency inside the arc. These skills made him a dominant offensive initiator across leagues, capable of elevating teammates through smart, unselfish play. Defensively, however, Rodríguez faced challenges stemming from his 6'3" stature, which limited his ability to contest taller guards or handle the physicality and speed of NBA wings. While he showed improved effort over time, his lateral quickness was average, making him vulnerable in isolation matchups and screen . His aggressive, up-tempo offensive style also carried occasional turnover risks, as bold passes and drives sometimes led to errant decisions under pressure. Throughout his career, Rodríguez evolved from a flashy, high-risk known for daring drives and creative flair into a seasoned who prioritized and poise. Early on, his love for fast breaks and no-look passes added excitement but contributed to inconsistencies; later, particularly in his prime, he refined his game to focus on controlled tempo and smarter shot selection, becoming a performer in high-stakes moments. This maturation transformed him into a reliable leader, blending artistry with pragmatism.

Nicknames and reputation

Sergio Rodríguez is widely known by the nickname "El Chacho," a of "muchacho" meaning "" or "guy" in Spanish, which originated from his childhood in the where such affectionate terms are common among locals. The moniker stuck throughout his professional career, becoming a staple in Spanish basketball commentary and fan chants, and it gained international recognition during his stints in the NBA and , where announcers and media outlets frequently referred to him as "Chacho" to highlight his youthful energy and playful style. Rodríguez earned a reputation as a charismatic leader and enduring fan favorite, particularly during his multiple tenures with Real Madrid, where his infectious enthusiasm and ability to inspire teammates endeared him to supporters. Known for his unyielding passion on the court, he often displayed a fiery competitiveness that motivated those around him, solidifying his image as a passionate competitor who thrived in high-stakes moments. His media presence was marked by several viral moments that captured global attention. Rodríguez also secured a long-term endorsement deal with starting in 2003, which aligned with his dynamic persona and appeared in promotional campaigns emphasizing his flair. Frequent interviews, such as those with , further portrayed him as an articulate ambassador for the sport, discussing his career transitions and love for the game. As a pioneer among Spanish point guards, Rodríguez paved the way for subsequent generations by successfully bridging European and NBA styles, becoming the first Spaniard to win the with a non-Spanish club ( in 2019) and influencing younger players through his versatility and international success. His career trajectory inspired emerging talents in , demonstrating how creative playmaking could translate across leagues and cultures.

Career statistics

NBA regular season

Sergio Rodríguez's NBA regular season career spanned five seasons with the (2006–2009), and (2009–2010), and (2016–2017), during which he established himself as a reliable known for his playmaking and perimeter shooting. Over 353 games, he averaged 4.9 points, 3.4 assists, 1.5 rebounds, and 0.5 steals per game, contributing to teams in transition periods while adapting to the league's fast-paced style. The following table summarizes his per-game averages for games played, points, assists, total rebounds, steals, and field goal percentage across these seasons:
SeasonTeam(s)GPTSASTTRBSTLFG%
2006–07POR673.73.31.40.5.423
2007–08POR722.51.70.80.3.352
2008–09POR804.53.61.60.7.392
2009–10SAC/NYK666.63.21.30.8.476
2016–17PHI687.85.12.30.7.392
Career3534.93.41.50.5.410
Rodríguez experienced a career peak in the 2016–17 season with the 76ers, where he averaged 7.8 points and a team-high 5.1 assists per game in 22.3 minutes, helping stabilize the backcourt amid injuries to key players. Earlier, his scoring and assist numbers fluctuated with role changes; for instance, limited minutes in 2007–08 dropped his output to 2.5 points and 1.7 assists, while increased opportunities in 2008–09 and 2009–10 boosted him to 4.5 points and 3.6 assists with Portland, followed by a scoring surge to 6.6 points split between Sacramento and New York. Advanced metrics highlight his efficiency as a , with assist-to-turnover ratios trending positively in playmaking-heavy seasons: 3.00 in 2006–07 (3.3 assists to 1.1 turnovers), dipping to 1.88 in 2009–10 (3.2 assists to 1.7 turnovers) amid adjustment to new teams, and rebounding to 2.68 in 2016–17 (5.1 assists to 1.9 turnovers). Shooting percentages varied by volume and role, with a career-high .476 in 2009–10 on more efficient attempts, contrasted by .352 in 2007–08 during bench minutes focused on spot-up ; three-point accuracy improved over time, reaching .365 in 2016–17 on 3.7 attempts per game.

NBA playoffs

Rodríguez's NBA playoff experience was confined to five games during the 2009 Western Conference First Round with the against the , a series Portland lost 2–4. In limited bench minutes totaling 27 across those games, he averaged 0.8 points, 1.4 assists, and 0.6 rebounds per game, providing modest support as a reserve behind starter . His most notable contribution came in Game 1 on , 2009, where he played 11 minutes off the bench, scoring 2 points on 1-of-2 shooting and dishing 2 assists in Portland's 108–81 loss. In the other four games, his playing time ranged from 3 to 5 minutes each, with no points scored after Game 1 and a total of 5 assists, highlighting his role in basic ball-handling duties rather than scoring or playmaking dominance.
GameDateOpponentResultMPPTSASTREB
12009-04-18HOUL 81-10810:53221
22009-04-21HOUW 107-1032:59011
32009-04-26@HOUL 88-893:02200
42009-04-28HOUW 88-775:11020
52009-04-30@HOUL 76-925:17021
Rodríguez did not appear in any further , including the 2017 postseason with the , where he was sidelined by knee soreness sustained late in the regular season. Over his entire NBA playoff career, he logged 5 games, 4 total points, 7 assists, and 3 rebounds.

EuroLeague

Sergio Rodríguez's spanned from to , during which he established himself as one of the competition's premier point guards, known for his playmaking, scoring ability, and clutch performances in high-stakes games. Beginning with Estudiantes in the 2004–05 and 2005–06 seasons, he returned to the competition in 2010 after stints in the NBA, contributing significantly to Real Madrid, , and before rejoining Madrid for his final years. His versatility and basketball IQ made him a key figure in multiple championship runs. The following table summarizes his per-season regular season statistics in the , grouped by team periods as per his career trajectory with Estudiantes (2004–06), Real Madrid (2010–2016 and 2022–2024), (2017–2019), and (2019–2022). Statistics include games played (G), minutes per game (MP), (PTS), total rebounds per game (TRB), and assists per game (AST). Data reflects play only.
SeasonTeamGMPPTSTRBAST
2004–05Estudiantes1417.46.42.02.7
2005–06Estudiantes1020.15.12.63.7
2010–11Real Madrid1818.86.11.93.1
2011–12Real Madrid1620.17.41.55.4
2012–13Real Madrid2918.27.51.83.9
2013–14Real Madrid3122.414.02.04.9
2014–15Real Madrid2821.611.11.45.1
2015–16Real Madrid2723.910.92.26.2
2017–18CSKA Moscow3626.013.82.04.9
2018–19CSKA Moscow3521.910.21.54.5
2019–20Olimpia Milano2825.613.02.35.4
2020–21Olimpia Milano3020.19.62.04.7
2021–22Olimpia Milano3019.88.32.34.6
2022–23Real Madrid3314.44.21.54.2
2023–24Real Madrid2715.03.91.34.1
Over his regular season career, Rodríguez appeared in 392 games, averaging 9.2 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, while ranking among the all-time leaders in assists with multiple seasons topping the league charts. Including playoff games, his total appearances exceeded , solidifying his status as one of the most enduring figures in the competition's history. In the playoffs and , Rodríguez elevated his game, contributing to three championships (2015 with Real , 2019 with , and 2023 with Real ). His ability to deliver in pressure situations, often leading in assists and scoring during elimination rounds, earned him recognition as a pivotal performer in title-winning campaigns, including MVP-level contributions without which his teams' successes would have been less assured.

Domestic leagues

Sergio Rodríguez began his professional career in the Spanish with , where he debuted during the 2003–04 season and established himself as a key over the next two full campaigns. Transitioning to Real Madrid in 2010, he contributed to multiple championship runs, including titles in 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2024, while serving as a veteran leader upon his return in 2022. Across his ACB regular season tenure with both clubs, Rodríguez appeared in 316 games, averaging 8.6 points and 4.3 assists per game, showcasing his evolution from a promising to a league assists leader in seasons like 2013–14 (6.1 APG). In the Russian , Rodríguez joined in 2017, helping secure championships in 2018 and 2019 with his scoring and facilitation skills. Over 53 games with the team through the 2018–19 season, he averaged 11.5 points per game, often excelling in high-stakes domestic matchups with efficient perimeter shooting and playmaking. Rodríguez's stint in the Italian came with from 2019 to 2022, where he played a pivotal role in the 2021–22 Scudetto-winning campaign. In 51 regular-season games, he averaged 12.2 points and 5.3 assists per game, with notable playoff performances including higher scoring outputs in elimination rounds, such as 13.5 points per game during the 2022 finals series. His adaptability to Italy's fast-paced style highlighted consistent shooting efficiency above 40% from the field across all three seasons. Throughout his domestic career in these leagues, Rodríguez demonstrated assists dominance particularly in the ACB, where he ranked among the top providers multiple times, and maintained strong shooting efficiency—often exceeding 35% from three-point range—across varying competitive environments, underscoring his versatility as a .

Awards and accomplishments

Club career

Sergio Rodríguez began his professional club career with Estudiantes , earning the Spanish League Rising Star Award in 2005. He joined Real Madrid in 2010 following his NBA stints, remaining until 2012 before moving to (2012–2017), where he won three Russian League titles (2015, 2016, 2017) and two titles (2018, 2019), along with the 2019 championship. Returning to Real Madrid from 2017 to 2019 and again from 2022 to 2024, Rodríguez became a key figure in the club's dominant era. With Real Madrid, he secured four ACB League titles in the 2012–13, 2014–15, 2015–16, and 2023–24 seasons. He also led the ACB in assists during the 2013–14 (5.8 apg) and 2015–16 (5.1 apg) seasons. Additionally, Rodríguez won five titles with Madrid (2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2024) and earned the Spanish Supercup MVP in 2013. In the EuroLeague, Rodríguez's impact was profound across multiple teams. In the 2013–14 season, he won the award and was named to the All-EuroLeague First Team with Real Madrid. He won the 2015 title with Real Madrid. Later, with , he captured the 2019 EuroLeague championship. Upon rejoining Real Madrid in 2022, Rodríguez added a third EuroLeague title in 2023. With from 2019 to 2022, Rodríguez won the Italian National Cup in 2021 and 2022.

International career

Sergio Rodríguez made his debut with the senior national team at the 2005 , appearing in one game during the tournament where Spain secured a . His breakthrough came at the in , where the 20-year-old Rodríguez became the youngest member of the squad and contributed significantly off the bench, helping Spain claim the gold medal in a dramatic final victory over . Over nine games, he averaged 4.3 points and 2.3 assists per game, showcasing his playmaking ability in a team featuring stars like . Rodríguez solidified his role in subsequent tournaments, starting with the 2007 in , where he played all seven games en route to a , though the team fell to in the final. He did not participate in the 2008 Olympics or the 2009 , during which won gold, due to limited playing time in the NBA and selection decisions. Returning for the 2012 London Olympics, Rodríguez featured in eight games, averaging 3.8 points and 3.1 assists, as earned silver after a narrow loss to the in the gold medal game. His international career peaked with consistent contributions across multiple competitions. At the 2013 EuroBasket, he played 11 games to help secure bronze; the 2014 FIBA World Cup saw him in seven games for another silver; and the 2015 EuroBasket delivered gold, with Rodríguez appearing in nine games and averaging 5.6 points and 3.3 assists. In the 2016 Rio Olympics, he started more prominently, playing eight games with averages of 7.2 points, 4.8 assists, and 2.0 rebounds, earning bronze after a semifinal loss to the . The 2017 EuroBasket brought another bronze, with nine games played. Rodríguez concluded his senior international tenure at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021), where he suited up for four games, averaging 6.7 points and 3.3 assists in a finish against the . He also participated in the 2019 FIBA World Cup European Qualifiers, playing two games. Over his 16-year international , Rodríguez amassed 154 caps, earning two gold medals (, 2015 ), four (, , 2014 FIBA World Cup, ), and four bronze medals (2005 , 2013 , , 2017 ). His versatility as a quick, creative made him a key reserve in Spain's golden era of dominance.

References

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