How College Hoopers Can Stand Out
Are you one of the thousands of college basketball players hoping to play professionally overseas? If so, I’ve got some crucial insights to share. Every year, around 1,500 Division 1 men’s basketball players finish their college eligibility, and that doesn’t even account for Division 2, Division 3, NAIA, or junior college athletes. When you factor […]
Why Getting a Second Opinion Can Save Your Overseas Career
They say hindsight is 20/20, and in my case, that couldn’t be more true. Looking back, had I gotten a second opinion on my injured leg, I would have taken 3-6 weeks off, healed up, and continued my career. Instead, I made the mistake of trusting the team doctor, whose priority was the team’s success, […]
Off The Plane, Ready To Go
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 […]
How to Earn Playing Time Overseas
Are you a basketball player looking to secure playing time as an import overseas? It’s not always as simple as, “I’m an import and better than the player ahead of me.” Playing overseas comes with its own set of challenges, and understanding both the written and unwritten rules will put you in a better position […]
The Value of Versatility in Overseas Basketball
I was the definition of a “Jack of All Trades, Master of None” kind of player, and honestly, I believe that’s what helped me carve out a long career overseas. Of course, there were other factors too, but you have to remember that I played in an era where the game was fundamentally different. Offenses […]
Tips For European Hooopers Playing Abroad For The First Time
This post is for all the European athletes stepping out of their comfort zones for the first time to either attend college or play basketball professionally in another country. Consider this your heads-up! You’re about to get a taste of what life is like for American players who venture overseas to play ball. Trust me, […]
Tips for Maintaining and Building Relationships Abroad
When it comes to maintaining a relationship while playing overseas, I’ve seen it all—and depending on your perspective, I might be the last person you’d ask for advice or the best person to offer it. But after years of navigating the highs and lows of long-distance relationships, I’ve learned a few things worth sharing. Long-Distance […]
Navigating and Executing Set Plays Overseas
One of the biggest challenges I see many rookies struggle with overseas is understanding and executing their roles within set plays. Adjusting to this aspect of the game can be tough, especially when you’re new to the professional scene. As a pro now, learning and mastering your playbook is part of your job—there’s no other […]
Understanding and Navigating the “Replacement Market”
As we approach the critical period from mid-August through November, the overseas basketball landscape enters what I call the “Replacement Market.” This is a crucial time for both teams and players, characterized by a high turnover rate as teams reassess their rosters after a few weeks of tryouts and preseason games. Seasons start typically in […]
Balancing Act: Playing Through Injuries in Overseas Basketball
In the world of overseas basketball, the decision to play through an injury or take time off to heal is a delicate balance that every player must navigate. While the drive to compete and contribute to your team is strong, it’s essential to recognize when pushing through pain might do more harm than good. The […]