Maxim Shulga, a promising Ukrainian basketball player, was selected with the 57th pick in the second round of the 2025 NBA draft.

On June 27, the second round of the draft took place, paving the way for the 23-year-old from Ukraine to enter the world's premier league.

Shulga was chosen with the overall 57th pick, which belonged to Orlando. The Magic opted for the Ukrainian and sent him to Boston alongside the 46th pick, Amari Williams, as part of a prior deal.

Orlando received the 32nd pick from Boston, which turned into forward Noah Penda. Meanwhile, the Celtics acquired Shulga, Williams, and two second-round draft picks (2026, 2027).

According to ESPN analyst Jonathan Givony, Maxim Shulga will sign a two-way contract with Boston. This means the player will have the opportunity to play for the Celtics in the NBA (for a certain period) and for their G-League affiliate. Throughout the season, Boston will have the option to keep Maxim in the G-League or convert his two-way contract into a full-time contract.

Maxim Shulga becomes the first Ukrainian to be drafted in the NBA in the last seven years. In 2018, the Washington Wizards selected Issuf Sanon with the 44th pick, while Svyatoslav Mykhailiuk was taken by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 47th pick.

Interestingly, Mykhailiuk was the only Ukrainian to have played for the Boston Celtics. Last year, the 28-year-old helped the "Celtics" secure their 18th championship. Sanon, on the other hand, has yet to play a single game in the NBA.

It’s worth noting that Shulga declared for the NBA draft after completing his fifth season in the NCAA, where he played for the Virginia Commonwealth Rams (VCU).

Together with his team, he became the champion of the Atlantic-10 division, and he was recognized as the Player of the Year.

After VCU exited the NCAA March Madness in the first round, Maxim Shulga participated in the NABC-Reese Division I All-Star Game.

Later, he was invited to the NBA draft combine among 75 NCAA players, where he showcased his skills.