Doubt Sergio de Larrea’s talent? Never. When many thought the best move for his career was to keep developing in Europe – with Real Madrid lurking – he decided the time had come, entered the draft and, today, with the 2026-27 NBA season just under way, we are already seeing that he was not wrong.
Because the key to succeeding with the class the Valladolid-born player possesses is undoubtedly having the trust of the team that takes you in, and that is exactly what the Dallas Mavericks have made him feel from the start. Last night, against the San Antonio Spurs, they gave him the court. Larry’s response? Sublime.
Coming off the bench, the 20-year-old Spanish rookie unleashed his game to finish with 21 points (3 of 4 from three), 5 rebounds and 4 assists in 33 minutes, a performance that makes clear he belongs among the best. No further ado. Here is his brilliant performance.
Without Kyrie Irving or Cooper Flagg, the Mavs showed their most competitive face; so much so that they entered the final quarter only three points down. That was when their Texas neighbours hit the accelerator to win 106-122, with 23 points from Victor Wembanyama.
Sergio de Larrea, top scorer for the Mavs
It may be said quickly, but that does not diminish its impact. In his third game in the best basketball league in the world, ‘Larry’ has already been his team’s top scorer, and he started from the bench.
A game like this does not consolidate him by any means, but it does open the door for people to know him from the outset and earn him a certain respect in the American competition. And, obviously, it also counts for his coach Dusty May to give him more and more playing time as more or fewer teammates are missing.
(Photograph by IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
