Let’s be honest. Being a professional basketball player—especially overseas—isn’t just about your jumper, your handle, or how high you can get off the floor. The truth is, your mind might be your most underutilized weapon.
I’ve seen it time and time again across Europe: ultra-talented players with all the tools but zero idea how to play the game the right way. And I don’t mean running plays or following a coach’s orders—I mean understanding why things happen on the court, when to act, and how to respond in real time.
That’s where basketball IQ comes in. And if you’re serious about having a real overseas career—not just a one-year stamp on your passport—you need to treat your brain like your body: train it consistently and with purpose.
Here’s how.
Step 1: Watch Film… the Right Way
Let’s cut the fluff: most players think “watching film” means watching their own highlights. And while it’s fun to relive your best plays, it won’t make you smarter. The real value lies in the moments in between.
When I played professionally across Germany, France, Portugal, and beyond, I developed a habit that extended my career: I studied the game like a coach. Not just myself—but my teammates, opponents, and systems.
Here’s what to focus on when watching film:
- How defensive rotations break down (and why)
- How players manipulate space without the ball
- Timing of screens, cuts, and spacing principles
- Communication cues between teammates
- Transition decisions—both good and bad
But don’t stop there. If you’re aiming to play overseas, then start watching overseas basketball. Go on YouTube or Eurobasket and find games from Germany, Spain, Finland, or Australia. Notice how different the flow is. Learn how pro guards read pick-and-rolls in Europe. Watch how import players adjust to officiating, ball movement, and spacing.
You want to be prepared? Then act like a scout.
Step 2: Analyze Your Game Like a Pro
After every game—win or lose, good stats or not—you should be doing a post-game review. No different than what your coach does. This is where real growth begins.
Instead of just thinking, “I played alright,” ask:
- Where did I lose my defender on defense?
- Did I force a bad shot when I could’ve swung the ball?
- What was the quality of my decisions in transition?
- How did I respond when the opposing team went on a run?
Write it down. Keep a game log with stats, notes, and adjustments. This becomes your personal blueprint for growth. If you had a tough night against a particular team, you now have data to study before the rematch.
This is especially important overseas where your job isn’t guaranteed and every game could be a tryout for your next one.
Playing Overseas = Playing Smarter
Let’s play devil’s advocate for a second: Do you even need a high basketball IQ if you’re athletic and putting up numbers?
Short-term? Maybe not. But long-term? Definitely.
I’ve watched dozens of players get sent home despite putting up points—because they made bad reads, missed defensive assignments, or didn’t understand how to play within a system. Overseas coaches want pros who don’t just produce but understand.
Remember: you’re not just hooping, you’re representing a club. The moment they sense you’re not reliable upstairs, your minutes—and money—will shrink fast.
This kind of mindset is exactly what I teach in my Plan of Action Master Classes. I don’t just talk about getting you overseas—I prepare you to stay overseas. Let’s build your future together.
Let’s Talk…