I talk to countless players every day, many of whom have never stepped foot on an overseas court. Some are laser-focused and willing to grind, while others seem to be waiting for a shortcut, hoping to be discovered. The truth? Only a small fraction of those players will ever make it. That’s a hard fact to face.
But here’s the big question: What if your dream of playing overseas doesn’t come true? What will you do?
Life doesn’t stop moving just because you didn’t land that pro contract. Bills still need to be paid, responsibilities don’t go away, and the world keeps spinning. But that doesn’t mean your basketball journey ends here—it just means it might look different than you imagined.
Passing the Torch: How You Can Still Make an Impact
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve gained some insight from me, whether it’s through our conversations, my podcast, or social media. Hopefully, you’ve learned things that have reshaped your understanding of the game or the basketball business. Now, imagine using that knowledge to help someone else.
Just because you don’t make it, doesn’t mean you can’t help someone else achieve what you couldn’t. Maybe you didn’t have all the information you needed when you started chasing this dream. Now that you know more, you can pass that knowledge forward and give someone else a head start. #eachoneteachone
Coaching: A New Way to Succeed
Think back to the coaches who have impacted your life. Those who pushed you, motivated you, and gave you the tools to succeed on and off the court. You can be that person for the next generation of players. Coaching at your old high school, volunteering at a local rec league—these are powerful ways to give back while staying connected to the game you love.
Sure, you’ll likely need a 9-to-5 to handle the bills, but that doesn’t mean you have to leave basketball behind. Your talent and knowledge can be the foundation for someone else’s success. They say the best coaches are in youth basketball—why not use what you’ve learned to shape future stars?
Be the Mentor You Wish You Had
I often hear from players who say, “I wish I’d known this sooner,” or “I wish you’d been around when I was starting out.” Imagine if you could be that missing link for someone else. You could provide the guidance, the wisdom, and the insight that could change the course of a young player’s life.
So what if you didn’t make it overseas? That doesn’t mean your dream was for nothing. In fact, it could be the stepping stone to something even more meaningful—helping others achieve their goals. Maybe that is your true purpose.
Keep Moving Forward
Your journey doesn’t end because one door closes. You still have so much to give, and basketball will always be a part of you, no matter where life takes you. Don’t underestimate the power of passing on what you’ve learned. You can be the difference in someone else’s life.
If you’re ready to turn your knowledge and experience into something that helps others, or if you’re still navigating your own path in the basketball world, I’m here to help. At SJM Consultation, I am committed to helping players—whether you’re chasing that overseas contract or figuring out what’s next. Reach out today, and let’s make sure your impact on the game doesn’t end here. Let´s Talk…