For many young European players, the dream is clear—go pro and build a long, successful basketball career. But how you start your journey matters just as much as how talented you are. Too many promising players get stuck in the wrong situations, holding themselves back without realizing it. If you want to maximize your chances of making it as a pro, you need to make smart decisions early. Here are three key moves that can set you apart from the competition.
1. Step Out of Your Childhood Club’s Shadow
If you’ve spent years playing for the same club, you might feel loyal to the team that developed you. But here’s the harsh reality—staying in your comfort zone might hurt your career.
In many cases, players who grow up in a club are still seen as “Little Lars” or “Young Juan,” no matter how much they’ve improved. Coaches, teammates, and management may unconsciously still view you as the kid from the youth team, not as a professional athlete. On the other hand, if you transfer to another club, you arrive as a fresh talent with no baggage—just another player competing for a spot.
Making the move to a new environment forces you to prove yourself in ways that staying at your home club never will. You’ll earn respect quicker, open yourself up to better opportunities, and increase your chances of getting noticed.
2. Consider the Rise of NIL Opportunities in the U.S.
For years, one of the biggest arguments against young European players going to college in the U.S. was financial—why play for free when you could start making money at home? But the game has changed.
With the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, college athletes can now earn serious money while still developing their game. This means that going the NCAA route is now a viable financial option, even for top European players.
If you have dreams of playing in the U.S., now is the time to seriously consider your options. The right college program can give you access to elite coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and new networking opportunities that can boost your career. And with NIL deals in play, you don’t necessarily have to sacrifice income while you develop.
3. Go Abroad to Elevate Your Game and Your Mindset
Basketball is bigger than just your home country. If you want to become the best player possible, you need to experience different playing styles, coaching philosophies, and cultures.
Spending time in another country will expand your skill set—you’ll face tougher competition, learn new ways to approach the game, and develop an adaptability that will set you apart from other players. But beyond basketball, you’ll also grow as a person. Living abroad forces you to become more independent, develop mental toughness, and learn to navigate different cultures—all traits that professional teams value highly.
And here’s the best part: you can always go home. But when you do, you’ll be looked at differently. You’ll return with more experience, a broader perspective, and a stronger reputation. Instead of being seen as the local kid, you’ll be the player who went abroad, gained valuable experience, and came back better.
Make the Right Moves for Your Career
Going pro isn’t just about talent—it’s about making the right decisions at the right time. If you’re serious about taking your career to the next level, you need a clear plan and the right guidance. That’s where I come in.
At SJM Consultation, I help players navigate the overseas basketball market, connect with the right teams and agents, and position themselves for success. If you’re ready to make the jump, let’s build a Plan of Action tailored to your goals. DM me or book a consultation today!
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