One of the biggest myths in overseas basketball is that you must have a FIBA-licensed agent to build a successful career. Let’s set the record straight—while a FIBA license can have its advantages, it’s far from the most important factor when choosing an agent.
The Truth About FIBA Licensing
Yes, FIBA-licensed agents are usually full-time, while non-FIBA agents may have another job. And if you run into a dispute with a FIBA agent, you can take your case to FIBA, which might sanction them if they’re found guilty of wrongdoing. But beyond that, the FIBA license is mostly a prestige title. What many players don’t realize is that most basketball federations also have their own licensing systems for agents. Just because an agent isn’t FIBA-certified doesn’t mean they can’t get you a contract.
A FIBA license doesn’t guarantee that an agent has great relationships with coaches, GMs, or club decision-makers. And here’s another fun fact—after passing the initial test, FIBA agents don’t have to do anything to maintain their status other than pay a yearly fee of about €1,000. No mandatory courses, no required updates—just a fee to stay on the list. Meanwhile, plenty of non-FIBA agents are out there making real moves and securing legit contracts for players.
The Role of Deal Makers
A non-FIBA licensed agent is technically not an agent but more of a deal maker. While they can help with connections to teams, they are never truly representing the player. To finalize the deal, an agent with a FIBA license number is still needed to complete the transaction, or the player can be listed as “without an agent,” which in turn makes payment to the deal maker difficult (or at least delayed until July 1st when the player can pay the agent directly). In the end, the deal maker will always have to bring the player to a FIBA-licensed agent for the contract to be legally completed.
Connetions Matter More Than a License
The most important factor when choosing an agent isn’t a FIBA stamp of approval—it’s connections. Who do they know? What teams can they place you with? How strong is their network?
A FIBA license doesn’t guarantee that an agent has great relationships with coaches, GMs, or club decision-makers. And here’s another fun fact—after passing the initial test, FIBA agents don’t have to do anything to maintain their status other than pay a yearly fee of about €1,000. No mandatory courses, no required updates—just a fee to stay on the list. Meanwhile, plenty of non-FIBA agents are out there making real moves and securing legit contracts for players.
What Should You Focus On?
When choosing an agent, ask yourself:
-Do they have strong connections in the leagues you want to play in?
-Do they have a track record of getting players signed?
-Do they communicate well and have your best interests at heart?
If the answer is yes, their licensing status shouldn’t be a dealbreaker.
Instead of focusing on whether an agent has a FIBA license, players should prioritize their agent’s network, credibility, and ability to land real opportunities. The right agent—FIBA-licensed or not—is the one who gets you where you need to be.
Navigating the overseas basketball world is tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you need help understanding your options and choosing the right agent, let’s talk!
Book a free consultation with me today. SJM Consulting was created to help hoopers. I will get you on the right path.
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