Overseas contracts can look exciting, especially when you’re chasing your first deal. But not every offer is as solid as it sounds. In fact, some of them are designed to take advantage of rookies who don’t know what to look for.
Here are five major red flags that every player should recognize before signing on the dotted line.
1. No Clear Payment Schedule
If the contract doesn’t outline when you’ll get paid, walk away. A solid contract specifies exact payment dates (monthly, biweekly, etc.). Anything vague like “at the club’s discretion” or “as agreed upon” gives them full control.
2. You Pay for Your Own Flight
This is one of the oldest tricks in the book. If a team expects you to pay for your flight, or promises to “reimburse later”, that’s not professional. Teams that can’t cover travel usually can’t be trusted to pay you consistently either.
3. Missing or Weak Termination Clauses
Good contracts protect both parties. If your deal says the team can release you “at any time,” but you can’t leave under any circumstance, that’s not balanced. It’s a setup for control, not fairness.
4. No Mention of Housing or Health Insurance
For import players, housing and health insurance are standard. If they’re not included, that’s a red flag, or at least something that needs to be negotiated clearly. You shouldn’t find out after you land that your “apartment” is a shared dorm or that you’re uninsured.
5. “We’ll Handle It Later”
This one’s sneaky. If the team says, “We’ll fix it when you get here,” or “We’ll send the full contract once you arrive,” stop right there. Nothing should be left to verbal promises. If it’s not written, it’s not real.
What to Do Instead
Don’t let excitement cloud your judgment. Even in smaller leagues, you deserve professionalism and protection. Before you sign, have someone review the contract, ideally someone who understands how overseas basketball really works.
That’s where I come in. I review player contracts for free and confidentially, whether it’s your first deal or your fifth. I’ve seen all the traps, and I know how to help you avoid them.
Before you make a move that could cost you your season, your money, or your reputation, send it over.
Let’s Talk…