From Wazzu to Spain: Adria Rodriguez Just Signed a Pro Deal and He's Not Coming Back
The door has officially closed on Adria Rodriguez returning to Washington State basketball. The 6-foot-4 senior guard inked a contract with Hiopos Lleida, a pro team in Spain's Liga ACB (the top division), as announced on the team's Instagram page this week. Rodriguez will play out the remainder of this season plus two more years with the club. Yeah, it's happening. He's going pro.
One Year at Wazzu: Flashes of Brilliance, Real Limitations
Rodriguez's single season in Pullman had its ups and downs, but there's no denying he brought some serious playmaking to the floor. He averaged 3.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game while chipping in 1.1 steals. His 26.9 percent assist rate led the team by a wide margin, which tells you everything about his role as a facilitator.
Here's the thing though: he really came alive in the second half of the season. Over his last 13 games (excluding Gonzaga matchups), Rodriguez dished out 73 assists against just 14 turnovers while pulling down 45 boards. He also became one of the team's better offensive rebounders with a 7.3 percent mark in WCC play. The guy could attack the rim, finish around the glass, and even had a couple dunks on his highlight reel.
The Elephant in the Room: His Shot Just Wasn't There
But let's be real. Rodriguez's ceiling was capped by his inability to shoot. His 45.9 percent clip from two was the lowest on the team, and from deep? Yeesh. He went 1-of-15 from three and only jacked up three triples in his final 17 games, including one half court heave at the buzzer. That's not going to cut it at the college level, which is exactly why the pro route makes sense for his development.
Despite those limitations, WSU found ways to use him in the 2-3 zone where his passing ability could really shine and create scoring opportunities for others. It was a clever workaround to a real weakness.
What's Next for the Cougars
Rodriguez's departure leaves Washington State with three open roster spots heading into next season. The situation also depends on whether Simon Hildebrandt pursues another year of eligibility, and there's the Casey Jones question too, with 2026-27 presumably the year he returns from a mission and redshirts.
Before joining Wazzu, Rodriguez was playing for HLA Alicante in Spanish basketball's second division. His new team at Hiopos Lleida features some familiar names to college hoops fans including Cameron Krutwig from Loyola Chicago and Melvin Ejim, whose sister Yvonne was a standout at Gonzaga women's basketball. The kid's ready for the next level, and Spain's a smart landing spot.
🐦 What fans are saying on X
See the latest reactions and highlights from Seattle fans about Adria Rodriguez.
View X conversation →🔮 Trade Seattle Sports on Kalshi
Did you know you can trade on Seattle sports outcomes on Kalshi, the only federally regulated prediction market in the US? Kalshi is available in Washington state. Bet on Seahawks games, Mariners season outcomes, Kraken playoff runs, and more. No sportsbook account needed.
💰 Limited offer: Get a FREE $10 when you sign up!
👉 Sign up at Kalshi.com and use promo code SEATTLEONTAP to claim your free $10.
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.