This one’s for you.
You know who you are. You are my most stressful client! And truth be told, I have learned alot about this side of the business through helping you.
We’ve known each other for years now—and I’ve seen your journey up close. From the crazy time we had sneaking you out of Serbia, to all the calls and messages since…I’ve always had your back. And I still do now.
I know your path hasn’t been easy. You have been THROUGH IT. You’ve dealt with situations most people couldn’t even imagine overseas, and you’ve still managed to hold it together and keep fighting. That says something. Actually, that says a lot. I admire you.
But I also know…you’re tired.
Mentally. Emotionally. Maybe even physically.
You’ve been asking yourself, “Is this the end? Should I just hang it up?” And trust me, I hear that. I feel that. But I also know you. And I know you’re a nervous person—this isn’t just about fatigue. It’s also about the unknown, the waiting, the silence that comes when nothing is happening and you’re sitting at home asking, “What now?” Especially since women do not have the same opportunities as men overseas.
And you know what I’m gonna say…Relax. It’s still early.
I mean it. You might feel like time’s running out, but this game doesn’t follow a neat calendar. I’ve seen deals happen in late October that completely changed a player’s whole life.
You’re back home working a 9-5, probably reffing, trying to stay busy—but I know you’re still itching to hoop.
And I also know this: If your agent called you tomorrow with a job offer, I guarantee you’d hit me up to look at the contract before anything else. Then once I give you the green light, you’d accept it—just like we’ve done before. That’s how we work. That’s how we’ve always worked.
I’ve got you.
Just like I did in our first conversation when I was in a Lidl parking lot in Greece.
And this post isn’t just for you—it’s for any hooper reading this who’s wondering if it’s time to give it up. Whether you’re still looking for your first contract or you’ve been in the game for years…I know what it feels like to question it all. But don’t make a permanent decision based on a temporary situation.
Here’s what you can do right now, while you wait:
- Keep touching base with your agent. (Not every day. Biweekly is enough.)
- Stay in shape. Keep working on your game so when the call comes, you’re ready.
- Organize your resume and highlight film. If you need help, you know where to find me.
- Stay mentally sharp. This is a test of patience just as much as talent.
A player asked me recently, “When should I hit the panic button?”
I told him: There is no panic button.
You can’t control the process. You can control how you prepare. If you have an agent, trust that they’re working. If you don’t have one, you better get in touch with me ASAP so I can help guide you—just like I have with so many others.
And remember: Even from the end of August into November, players are still signing real, lucrative contracts. That’s the Replacement Market (I even wrote a blog about it). It’s real. And it’s not too late—not even close.
If you’re ready to take the next step, I’ve got another Plan of Action Masterclass coming up on June 24th. This class has helped players get serious about their overseas careers—whether they’re just starting or trying to level up. If you’re tired of waiting and want a clear plan…this is where you begin.
At SJM Consulting, I help hoopers navigate the overseas game—from resumes and film prep to contract reviews and mentorship. Whether you’re just getting started or figuring out if it’s time to walk away…I’m here.
Let’s Talk…