Let’s be real: choosing an overseas basketball agent isn’t just a business decision—it’s a career-defining moment. I’ve seen it all. Rookies signing with the first agent who shows interest. Veterans getting stuck in the same markets year after year. Talented players missing out on contracts because their agents weren’t dialed into the right leagues or failed to fight for their worth.
The overseas game is unlike anything you’ve experienced in college or the States. And the wrong agent? That can set you back years. So before you commit your career to someone else’s hands, you need to be the one asking the questions. Not just any questions—the right ones.
1. How Many Players at My Position Do You Represent?
This is about competition—and transparency.
If you’re a 6’3″ scoring guard and your agent already has five similar clients, ask yourself: who’s getting pitched first when a team needs that role?
Too many players assume agents work like loyal managers. In reality, some agents shop their top guys and keep the rest waiting. You deserve clarity. Know where you stand on their depth chart.
2. Which Countries and Leagues Do You Specialize In?
Here’s where many rookies get blindsided.
An agent might say, “I place players in Spain,” but what they really mean is EBA or LEB Silver—not Liga ACB. Germany? Are we talking BBL, ProA, ProB, or Regionalliga?
Each country has multiple levels with major differences in exposure, professionalism, and—yes—pay. If you’re aiming high, make sure your agent has experience placing players at that level and not just “in the country.”
3. How Will You Market Me to Teams?
This isn’t about generic emails and mass-blasted CVs. Ask:
- Will they customize your resume?
- Do they understand your strengths?
- Can they position you as a fit for specific team needs?
You are not a product to be dropped into random inboxes. You’re a pro who needs strategic marketing.
4. What Support Will You Provide After I Sign?
Here’s the truth: a lot of agents disappear once the ink dries.
But what happens when:
- You get injured?
- The team delays your paycheck?
- You’re isolated in a non-English speaking town?
A real agent offers ongoing support, not just a contract. Ask how often they’ll check in and what their role is once you’re actually over there.
5. What’s Your Knowledge of Overseas Leagues and Their Rules?
This is crucial, especially with American-based agents. Overseas leagues vary widely in rules, import restrictions, contract clauses, and FIBA regulations. If your agent doesn’t know the difference between FIBA and non-FIBA leagues or can’t explain the transfer window in France versus Portugal, that’s a red flag.
Overseas basketball isn’t a Google-and-go situation. Your agent should be fluent in this world.
6. How Do You Handle Conflicts of Interest?
Multiple players. Same team. Same position. One agent. What happens when a coach asks your agent, “Which of your two power forwards should we sign?”
That’s not a hypothetical—that’s real life. As a coach, I have asked that very question. You need to know how your agent balances loyalty and fairness in these situations. There’s nothing wrong with competition, but there’s everything wrong with favoritism.
7. What’s the Long-Term Plan for My Career?
You’re not just looking for your next job—you’re building a career.
Ask if your agent:
- Has a multi-season vision
- Will help you move up leagues
- Can guide you toward your goals—whether that’s stability, money, or exposure
Some agents are deal-makers. Others are career builders. Know which one you’re signing with.
8. Will You Invest in My Basketball Education?
Most agents will say, “We’ll teach you as you go.” But here’s the truth: overseas basketball is a different game, and the faster you understand it, the faster you’ll adapt and succeed.
An agent who really believes in you should want you to learn:
- How contracts work overseas
- What cultural challenges to expect
- What warning signs of scams or bad teams look like
If they won’t educate you, someone else needs to…like me. Just sayin´.
Reality Check: The Agent Is Not Your Savior
Even the best agent can’t guarantee you a job. They can’t manufacture demand that isn’t there. They can’t fix a bad attitude, a weak highlight tape, or a player who isn’t proactive about their own career.
That’s why you need more than just an agent—you need a guide. A mentor. Someone who knows the game from every angle and tells it to you straight.
At SJM Consulting, I don’t just help you find an agent—I teach you how to choose one wisely. I break down these questions and arm you with strategies so you don’t get sold a dream. We’ve mentored hundreds of players who now thrive overseas—not because they were lucky, but because they were informed.
If you want help:
- Creating a professional resume and film strategy
- Learning what agents (and teams) are really looking for
Then this is your next move.
Book a session with SJM Consulting and stop guessing. Start preparing.
Let’s Talk…