As an aspiring professional basketball player, it’s natural to dream big and want to play at the highest level possible. I speak with many players who are willing to do whatever it takes to make that happen. Very often, they say the words that make my skin crawl, “I will play anywhere.” At first glance, this seems like a positive, go-getter mindset. However, this attitude can actually work against you.
In this post, I’ll explain why saying “I will play anywhere” could hurt your basketball career and why having a clear, intentional vision of where you’d like to play is critical for your success.
Have You Really Considered What “Anywhere” Means?
When players say, “I will play anywhere,” it’s often without fully understanding the complexities of that statement. Have you really thought about what it would mean to play in every country or league?
In general we talk worldwide, but let´s use Europe as an example. European leagues offers a unique basketball experience, shaped by its styles of play, level of competition, infrastructure, and culture. For example:
- Spain’s ACB League is known for its highly technical and fast-paced play.
- Germany’s BBL offers physical, organized basketball with excellent facilities and fan support.
- Italy’s Serie A emphasizes finesse and offensive creativity.
- Turkey’s BSL combines athleticism with passionate fan bases but can be culturally and emotionally intense for new players.
- Lower-tier leagues in countries like Luxembourg or Austria may offer fewer resources and less exposure but can still be good for younger players building experience.
Beyond basketball, you’ll face cultural adjustments: new languages, food, and lifestyles. For instance, life in Belgrade, Serbia, will feel completely different from Paris, France. Without understanding the full picture, saying you’ll play anywhere is like agreeing to a mystery job—you may end up in a situation that doesn’t align with your goals, skills, or even your personality.
Why a Clear Vision is Essential
1. It Helps You Focus Your Efforts
Not knowing where you want to play can scatter your energy and resources. You might waste time attemting to play in leagues or countries that aren’t a good fit for your skill level, playing style, or professional goals.
For example, if your game is built on speed and transition offense, you’ll excel in leagues that favor fast play. On the other hand, if your strength is physical post play, you might be better suited for a league like Greece or Turkey.
By identifying the leagues that best suit your skills, you can target specific agents, camps, and opportunities, making your path clearer and more efficient.
2. It Shows Coaches and Scouts You’re Serious
Coaches, scouts, and agents are flooded with messages from players claiming they’ll play “anywhere.” What separates you from the crowd is showing you’ve done your homework.
When you approach a coach or agent with a clear idea of why you want to play in their league or country, you instantly stand out. For example:
- Instead of saying, “I’m open to playing anywhere,” say, “I’ve studied the style of play in Italy, and I believe my scoring versatility would thrive in Serie A. Here’s how my game fits.”
This level of intentionality demonstrates not only your skills but also your professionalism and commitment, making it more likely you’ll catch their attention.
3. It Prepares You for Success On and Off the Court
By narrowing your focus, you can tailor your preparation for the demands of a particular league or country. Each league prioritizes different aspects of the game: some focus on defense, while others prioritize creativity and speed. Understanding these nuances allows you to adjust your training accordingly.
Additionally, having a vision helps you prepare for life off the court. Whether it’s learning the language, understanding the cultural norms, or researching the lifestyle in a specific country, being prepared can ease your transition and make your overseas experience more enjoyable.
A Word About Flexibility
Being intentional doesn’t mean shutting out opportunities. It’s still important to remain flexible—especially early in your career—because unexpected doors may open. However, flexibility without focus can lead to frustration, as you may find yourself bouncing between leagues that don’t align with your aspirations.
Think of it this way: flexibility means being open to possibilities within your plan, not abandoning your plan altogether.
Real-Life Examples of Strategic Choices
Many successful players have launched their careers by being selective yet adaptable:
- Shane Larkin (now a EuroLeague star) chose Turkey to restart his career after a stint in the NBA, knowing he could shine in a system that fit his style.
- Underrated rookies often start in lower-tier leagues like Hungary or Slovakia, building their resumes and transitioning into bigger markets over time.
These players didn’t just accept “anywhere”; they made intentional choices to set themselves up for long-term success.
What Happens If You Don’t Plan?
Without a clear vision, you may find yourself in situations that stunt your career growth. For instance:
- Accepting a contract in a poorly organized league with low exposure could limit your ability to move up.
- Misaligned expectations could lead to cultural or professional frustration, causing players to break contracts early or leave the game entirely.
- A lack of research might land you with an agent who doesn’t have your best interests at heart.
These pitfalls can be avoided by taking control of your career and making informed decisions.
Be Intentional About Your Basketball Journey
Saying “I will play anywhere” might sound ambitious, but it often reflects a lack of direction. Instead, take the time to understand your game, research the leagues and cultures that align with your goals, and develop a clear vision for your career.
Remember, being intentional doesn’t mean limiting your opportunities—it means maximizing them. A well-thought-out plan will help you stand out, focus your efforts, and set yourself up for success on and off the court.
At SJM Consultation, we specialize in helping players navigate the complexities of overseas basketball. If you’re unsure where to start or need guidance on finding the right fit, I’m here to help.
Let’s Talk…