In a league where nearly 90% of import minutes go to North Americans, Albert Ventura stands out—not just for his passport, but for his purpose.
The 32-year-old Spaniard has spent his career in the ACB, one of Europe’s top leagues. He isn’t an athlete. He isn’t a scorer. But he’s a pro. And that’s proving just as valuable.
A Clear Role, Executed Efficiently
Since arriving at the end of February, Ventura has embraced a role few imports take on. He doesn’t dominate the ball or try to put his stamp on every possession. Instead, he spaces the floor, takes open shots, and moves the ball quickly. It’s simple, efficient basketball—and Caledonia have needed exactly that.
He’s currently taking over 70% of his shots from beyond the arc, the highest rate on the team. He doesn’t force anything—he stretches the floor, keeps the ball moving, and plays within the system.
| Player Name | % Shots as 3P | 3P% |
|---|---|---|
| Albert Ventura | 72% | 30.8% |
| Fraser Malcolm | 61% | 36.0% |
| Patrick Whelan | 57% | 28.8% |
| Jett Speelman | 43% | 42.9% |
| Devearl Ramsey | 33% | 32.3% |
*Data since Ventura joined the club
Ventura’s numbers aren’t flashy, but his value is clear. He’s a steady presence on a team that’s needed exactly that during a turbulent season. His game won’t headline highlight reels—but it helps teams win.
An Untapped Market
Defining a player’s nationality as the first one listed on Eurobasket, the SLB’s import strategy has overwhelmingly favoured one pipeline this season:
| Continent | % of Import Minutes |
|---|---|
| North America | 89.5% |
| Europe | 5.3% |
| Oceania | 3.2% |
| Africa | 2.0% |
It’s easy to see why. The SLB is an English-speaking league with deep ties to the American college system, which provides a steady stream of young talent looking for their first professional break. These players offer clubs a chance to take a swing on potential—the kind of move that can transform a season if it hits.
But Ventura reflects something different. With a Spanish Director of Basketball in Miguel Ortega, Caledonia are more naturally positioned to look to European markets than most SLB clubs.
Ventura isn’t here for exposure. He’s here to add value. In that sense, he’s a case study in what’s possible when teams look beyond the usual mould. If SLB clubs want stability, versatility, and players who can contribute without dominating, they might find it closer to home than they think.
