Elijah Hughes strengthens the MHP RIESEN: A basketball talent for Ludwigsburg!
Elijah Hughes is moving to MHP RIESEN Ludwigsburg and bringing new talent to the baroque city until 2026.

Elijah Hughes strengthens the MHP RIESEN: A basketball talent for Ludwigsburg!
A fresh wind is blowing through the baroque city: The MHP RIESEN Ludwigsburg have brought a new forward on board with Elijah Hughes. The 27-year-old is moving from Río Breogán from the Spanish Endesa league and has signed a contract until the summer of 2026. This commitment is not only a strategic move, but also a sign of ambition in the German basketball scene. How MHP RIESEN Ludwigsburg Reportedly, Hughes brings the desired all-round variability that should strengthen the team.
Elijah Hughes, born March 10, 1998 in Poughkeepsie, New York, has had an interesting career. He grew up in Beacon and began his basketball career in the Catholic Youth Organization. His talents became apparent early on as he played successfully in high school, including being named to the First-Team Class A All-State. After two years, he transferred to John F. Kennedy Catholic High School, where he gained attention and led his team to an impressive record of 26–2.
From the NCAA to the NBA
After his time in high school, Hughes decided to attend East Carolina University. Here he got off to a promising start, but struggled with injuries. After a transfer to Syracuse, he really blossomed. In his junior season, he averaged 19 points per game and was one of the team's leading scorers, ultimately earning him the distinction of being an NCAA Draft prospect. Finally, Hughes was selected in 2020 as the 39th pick by the New Orleans Pelicans, whose draft rights were later traded to the Utah Jazz. In the NBA he played for the Utah Jazz and Portland Trail Blazers, where he appeared in 54 games.
His stat-packed time in the NBA G League gave Hughes not only experience, but also the ability to read and react to the game. Last season with the Cleveland Charge, he averaged 14.7 points per game and performed solidly in a variety of roles.
A look at Europe
The decision to move to Europe was no coincidence. Hughes has already gained experience in European leagues, including in Manisa and Patras. However, his stay at Río Breogán was not as successful, where he only averaged 2.4 points and 0.6 rebounds per game. Nevertheless, he sees Europe positively and has already had good discussions with coach Mikko Riipinen. Hughes says he is “excited about the league” in Germany and the planned style of play under Riipinen.
His father, Wayne, works at IBM, while his mother, Penny, worked as a teacher and counselor at a methadone clinic. Hughes is the sixth of seven children and brings strong family support with him to his new adventure in Ludwigsburg. The fans can look forward to a dynamic player who wants to integrate well into the team.
With his move to MHP RIESEN Ludwigsburg, a new chapter begins for Elijah Hughes. The basketball scene in Germany can be excited to see what this talented forward has to offer. For Hughes himself, the move to Ludwigsburg is a clear focus on a career in Europe, which he sees as his permanent home. The coming months could be crucial for his development and take the team further forward.