Real Madrid signs Ukrainian guard Max Shulga through 2028

Real Madrid has bolstered its roster by signing Ukrainian shooting guard Max Shulga to a contract running through the 2027-2028 season. The 24-year-old player arrives from the Boston Celtics organization, adding depth to the Spanish club's backcourt.

Shulga brings a diverse background, having been selected 57th overall in the 2025 NBA draft by the Orlando Magic, who subsequently traded his rights to the Boston Celtics. He is considered a "locally trained" player for Spanish competitions due to his formative years spent in Spain's youth basketball system. He joined the Colegio Leonés program at age 11 and later played for Torrelodones in Madrid before heading to the United States for his collegiate career.

In the U.S., Shulga played three years at Utah State University before completing his NCAA eligibility at Virginia Commonwealth University. During his final two college seasons, he transitioned from a shooting specialist to a more versatile guard, averaging 14.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. Despite being drafted, he played only 11 official games for the Celtics but was a key player for their G-League affiliate, the Maine Celtics, posting averages of 15.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.7 assists.

Shulga becomes Real Madrid's fourth signing of the summer, following Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot, Mikeal Jantunen, and Jaime Pradilla. The club is also expected to announce the signings of Olivier Sarr and Damian Jones soon. Shulga's addition will provide flexibility for coach Pedro Martínez in the Liga Endesa and Copa del Rey competitions.