Saturday, November 30, 2024

Top 10 Useful Tips For Overseas Basketball Players by Destiny Samuels

Tip #1: RESEARCH 

Research the places your agent is offering to you. Not only do you need to understand the politics of it but also research about the team you are going to be playing for. If your are scenic person and you don’t feel like you will be in the most comfortable position at that location express that.  


Tip #2: GAME PLAN/GOALS 


When choosing your agency/agent, have a list of goals that you want to accomplish. For example, your salary range, what positions your looking to play, etc. Also be reasonable and don’t come empty handed, have film ready, a basketball resume, your statistic, be prepared. 


Tip #3: ASK QUESTIONS 


Network with people in the basketball world. Whether it be your former coaches, teammates or players on Instagram that inspire you. Ask them questions about their experience and take note of their storylines. You never know who can put you in the right position.  


Tip #4: TRAVEL PREP 


Packing to go overseas bring necessities and toiletries that your feel are important. For example, if you like to cook for yourself bring seasonings and condiments. Things for your hygiene is also important. Pack extra basketball clothes as some clothes do not give put gear to practice in. So, bringing extra spandex game gear, etc. can help because stores may not have these things available as well.  


Tip #5: AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION  


Ask the club you are going to play for to send you your confirmation for your flight at least a week in advance so you can download the app and check in on your foot. This way you can adjust things you need like seating, TSA Precheck, etc. Make sure you have your flight info on hand and on your phone for emergencies and also your passport.  


Tip #6: ACCOMMODATIONS 


Ask your agent about rooming, transportation, and food accommodations. If you are more comfortable with staying alone, with a foreigner/American, express these things as they will try to make things suitable for you. However, be considerate because sometimes for tournaments the living spaces are already paid for by sponsors at hotels. 


Tip #7: FINANCIAL LITERACY 


Your money is your reward for all of your hard work, so save it, invest it, put it towards your credit. Saving your entire check is not realistic so budgeting is important. If you don’t have the tools or discipline to incorporate money management into your routine search online, confide in someone.  


Tip #8: RECOVERY 


Bring extra recovery tools.. like a foam roller, stretch band, Normatec boots, stem, etc. Sometimes the place you will attend will not have PT options, trainers, or even doctors or nurses around to help your physical. The time difference due to jet lag can also affect your body, so resting is important.  


Tip #9: MENTALITY 


Be productive on and off the court. Off the court start some hobbies you’ve always wanted to try, get more in tune with yourself, site see. Not doing things that will benefit you in life will just set you back and you will become bored and home sick. On the court take all the skill work and training that you were doing at home and apply it. You are there to be the It factor. Set an example be on time and get up extra shots if you can. Your mindset is everything and it determines your reality, if your are spiritual this is great time to engage with your beliefs.  


Tip #10: PATIENCE  


Whether you are waiting for your next job or waiting to go back home from overseas, believe that whatever is meant for you will come into fruition. Things take time and you want to be put in the best position for you. Don’t rush because you most likely will rush into something that does nit suit your benefits and regret it. 


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