If you’ve never played basketball overseas before, there are a few things you absolutely must know and understand before boarding that plane and crossing into new territory. Life as an import player isn’t just about talent—it’s about making the right impression from the moment you step off the plane. Here’s what you need to be prepared for before you leave your homeland and head into this new chapter of your basketball career.
First Impressions Matter More Than You Think
Once you step off that plane, you’re not just a basketball player anymore—you’re a representative of yourself, your home country, and your new team. And trust me, your first impression will leave a lasting mark. From the very first moment you meet anyone from the team—whether it’s the coach, general manager, or even the driver picking you up—you’re under scrutiny. You’ll need to be ready to perform, both on and off the court.
Chances are, you’re not the first import player they’ve seen. In fact, you’re one in a long line of foreign players, and they will instantly compare you to the ones who came before you. It’s human nature, and that means your demeanor from the jump is critical. We’ve all heard the saying, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression,” and this couldn’t be more true in overseas basketball. If you come off as closed off, unapproachable, or uninterested, it will hurt your standing before you even lace up your shoes.
Step 1: Be Open, Friendly, and Smile
When you arrive in a foreign country, you’re not just entering a new team; you’re stepping into a whole new culture. Smiling is one of the most universal ways to break down barriers. Whether it’s language or cultural differences, a genuine smile can ease tension and build connections faster than anything else.
You might be tired from the long flight, jet lag, or simply being out of your comfort zone, but don’t underestimate the power of being approachable. People gravitate toward positivity. Even if you can’t speak the language, a smile and some friendly gestures can work wonders.
Step 2: Ask Questions and Show Interest
Curiosity is another big part of winning over people in a new environment. Ask questions about the team, the city, the culture, and the people you’re working with. Showing interest in your new surroundings will not only help you adjust but also make you more likable. People appreciate it when you care about where you are and what you’re doing, beyond just basketball.
When you’re curious and engage with your teammates, coaches, or staff, they’ll see you as someone who is excited to be there and willing to adapt. This small effort sets you apart from players who come in solely focused on playing ball and collecting their paycheck.
You May Have to Perform Immediately
Now, here’s a reality that can be tough for first-time imports: you may not get any time to settle in before you’re expected to hit the court. Sometimes, if you arrive late in the season or if the team urgently needs you, you could find yourself playing or practicing right after you land. Literally.
Imagine getting off a plane at 9 a.m., being taken to the team facilities, and then having to suit up for practice by the afternoon. It happens more often than you’d think. I’ve known players who didn’t even stop at their hotel or grab a meal before being thrown into a practice session. Personally, I flew from Austria to England once and played in a league game just a few hours after I arrived. I drove from London to Leicester, met the team at the bus, drove to an away game and played 32 minutes. No sightseeing, no rest—just straight to business.
That’s the reality of being an import player. You’re hired to contribute immediately, and the team might not have time to ease you in. You’ll need to be mentally and physically prepared to perform under less-than-ideal circumstances.
Eyes Are Always on You
Keep in mind, the moment you step into that gym—whether for practice or a game—everyone is watching. The GM, the coach, your teammates—they’re all asking themselves one question: “Is he worth it?” The pressure can feel overwhelming, but it’s something you have to accept and navigate. It’s not just about skill; it’s about proving that you belong, that you’re reliable, and that the team made the right choice in signing you.
When I played that game right after flying, I knew everyone was evaluating me. Even though I hadn’t even practiced with the team, they were judging whether I could mesh with the group and perform under pressure. Spoiler alert: I played 32 minutes and delivered, and you’ll need to do the same when your time comes.
Handling the Pressure
The most challenging part of being an import player is dealing with the mental and emotional pressure. You’re away from home, possibly in a country where you don’t speak the language, playing with teammates you’ve just met, and performing in front of a coach who’s constantly evaluating you. It can be a lot to handle.
But this is where you have to dig deep. Push aside any feelings of homesickness, exhaustion, or insecurity. Your primary focus has to be on doing your job—and doing it well. If you don’t rise to the occasion, you could find yourself back at the airport faster than you expected. Overseas contracts often have little room for error, especially when it comes to import players.
Be Ready for Anything
The bottom line is, as an overseas player, you have to be ready for anything the moment you touch down. Be mentally prepared for the fact that you’re constantly being evaluated, even when you’re off the court. Stay open, positive, and engaged with your new environment and teammates, and when your time comes to play, make sure you’re ready to give it your all—no excuses.
If you go into this experience with the right mindset, not only will you succeed, but you’ll also grow both as a player and as a person. Overseas basketball is a unique adventure, and while it comes with challenges, it also offers incredible rewards for those who are ready to seize the moment.
So, as you prepare to make the jump, remember: your performance begins the second you step off that plane—be ready to shine.