The Basketball Movement's founder, Rob Yanders, dishes on his experience playing professional ball in Europe.
Rob Yanders' local impact through The Basketball Movement has been immense. He cherishes this community and is here to give back and enhance it through the sport he loves. Rob's time in Springfield and West Plains was a big part of his career, but his professional experience led him to a much different place.
For some of us, it is easy to forget that there is more to basketball than what we see in high school, the NCAA, and NBA. There are basketball teams worldwide; many are at the professional level.
The Basketball Movement is unique in offering Euro Preparation to players looking to break into the pro scene. Rob's experience is a fantastic resource for any American player considering playing basketball abroad.
I (@WilHarrington) sat down with Robert at The Basketball Movement to discuss his time in Europe.
Rob's experience playing overseas
After college,Rob Yanders headed to Sheffield, England, to begin his rookie year of pro ball. He said it was indeed a culture shock, but the team won the British Championship, easing his transition. "When you're successful and winning, everything is great." He credits the people he met and his teammate for helping to make it a great experience.
“My experience in Europe helped mold me into the person I am today - my experiences getting away and getting cultured through these different walks of life. Sheffield, France, Scotland, Treviso, Norway, Zurich, Germany, Israel - because of basketball. Because of that round, orange thing, I’ve been to some amazing places.”
In his pro career, he won three European Championships, two regular-season Championships, a National Cup, and Finals MVP. In France, Rob was also voted team MVP with both VCB and KABCA teams and earned All-Star Team honors in 2012. His time as a pro in Europe was undoubtedly a success.
How Rob applies what he learned to The Basketball Movement
As a pro, Robert told me that you are always thinking about what comes next. Players are rarely guaranteed a safety net in their brief careers. When Rob thought about what he wanted to do, he leaned on what made him happy: basketball.
Enjoying and being around the sport of basketball does not have to end when playing days are over. Robert was a Community Recreation major in college and knew that he wanted to build or run a sports facility.
“I grew up in Salvation Army, Boys and Girls Clubs, and YMCA’s. Those were places that gave me shelter to play the game and keep me safe from the streets.”
He talked about the alone time you experience playing in a foreign country and how much time it allowed him to reflect on the future. He also participated in many camps, clinics, speaking opportunities, and mentorships. His leadership grew even more, allowing him to confidently assume his role as founder and owner of The Basketball Movement.
Advice for players considering college or the pro game
Robert's advice on this topic centered around personal circumstances - situations vary greatly from player to player.
“Do what’s best for your family. Invest in you and invest in your family - your time is valuable. Make sure you get the right council and information.”
Rob also warned that the pro game would be a stark contrast for any players that are talented enough to play professionally straight out of high school. Playing with grown men that are playing for paychecks is a whole new world.
If the opportunity for a "one-and-done" type of player to play professionally presented itself, and they needed money, he may recommend going if the player is confident in professional ball as a career. For most, though, education is always a great idea. It will pay off more than fizzling out after a few pro seasons.
Recently, collegiate athletes have been afforded the opportunity to make money from their name and likeness, which is also opening new paths.
As Rob mentioned, receiving good counsel and information is crucial when considering playing in Europe or anywhere else. Coach Rob, Coach Anthony Shavies, and more can help players with this preparation right here at The Basketball Movement.
If you are interested in any capacity in playing overseas, pleasecontact us and let us help you navigate the intimidating options that follow.