Eli John Ndiaye ‘s first experience in American basketball has come to an abrupt halt. The Spanish power forward will undergo surgery on his left shoulder, an operation that puts an early end to his season and forces him to think about the 2026/27 season.
The injury comes at a difficult time for the player, who was also unable to benefit from Kristaps Porzingis ‘ recent absence from the Atlanta Hawks, as he himself had been sidelined for weeks.
G-League injury complicates debut year
Ndiaye, 21, suffered a shoulder subluxation on Dec. 9 while playing in a game with the College Park Skyhawks, the Hawks’ G-League affiliate. Subsequent medical tests confirmed a labral tear requiring repair surgery.
The estimated recovery time exceeds the remaining margin of the season, so the Spaniard will not compete again this year. The exact timeframe of the absence will be determined in January, although the focus is already set on a full recovery for next year.
A demanding path after leaving Real Madrid
Last summer, Ndiaye decided to close his time at Real Madrid to seek an opportunity in the United States. He was not selected in the draft, but managed to find a place in Atlanta’s orbit after playing in the summer league and the preseason, finally being integrated into the G-League squad.
With the Skyhawks he averaged 8.1 points and 6.9 rebounds, although his poor shooting from three-point range (23%) was once again one of the areas to improve after his departure from European basketball.
A competitive scenario in Atlanta
Competition at the inside positions for the Hawks has been intense. Jalen Johnson has established himself as a key piece in Quin Snyder’s scheme, while Gueye has gained prominence in the rotation. Add to that the presence of players like Onyeka Okongwu and Porzingis himself, which reduced Ndiaye’s chances of making his first-team debut.
The Spaniard had a limited number of days to appear in the NBA, but never made it into the coach’s plans. His contract has brought him some $636,000 gross, although his future with the franchise is now up in the air.
Looking ahead after a physical setback
The injury again affects a delicate area for Ndiaye, who already had shoulder problems during his last seasons in Madrid. In addition, the setback comes after missing the last European Championship, when he was already eligible for the Spanish national team.
Nevertheless, the player’s priority is still to consolidate his career in the United States, a risky but well-considered bet. With the season practically ruled out, Ndiaye now faces a period of recovery and reflection, with his sights set on returning stronger and finding his place in North American professional basketball.
