Rj Luis Jr., Big East Player of the Year and current member of the Dominican Republic national team, makes history as the first player with Ecuadorian roots to wear Boston’s iconic green jersey.
Although his professional journey began with the Utah Jazz, the trade to the Boston Celtics was made official on the evening of Tuesday, August 5. The deal included veteran forward Georges Niang and two future second-round draft picks, highlighting the Massachusetts-based franchise’s intent to bolster its roster with emerging young talent.
Born to a Dominican father and an Ecuadorian mother, Rj Luis Jr. did not participate in the Summer League with Utah. Nevertheless, Boston’s scouting department saw untapped potential in the young guard and didn’t hesitate to pursue his signing.
It’s worth noting that just weeks ago, Rj Luis Jr. made history by signing a two-way contract with the Utah Jazz, becoming the first player of Ecuadorian descent to secure an NBA deal. The contract allows him to split time between the Celtics’ main roster and their G League affiliate, gaining valuable minutes and experience as the season progresses.
A Miami, Florida native, Rj Luis Jr.—as he’s professionally known—had an outstanding college season with St. John’s University in Queens, New York. During the 2024–25 campaign, he averaged 18.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.4 steals over 35 games, earning him the title of Big East Conference Player of the Year.
Rj Luis Jr.’s arrival in Boston represents more than a typical roster move—it signals the growing presence of Latino talent in the NBA and marks another step forward in the Celtics’ commitment to building a more diverse and promising team.
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Can’t wait for the season to start!