The game of basketball has come a long ways since the founding in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith. Today basketball is being played in countries around the globe and has opened doors for many players. Ever since the sport has become competitive at the professional and recreational levels players from all over enjoy the game of basketball. International play has not only given players opportunities to see the world, but also to accomplish their goals of becoming a professional basketball player. Players aren’t the only individuals that get the opportunity to see the world, but coaches are also given the chance to become a part of an international basketball league or organization.
There are many steps that can be taken for a coach to start coaching basketball overseas. The main requirement that is needed whether or not an individual is coaching in their home country or overseas, is the knowledge of the game. The knowledge the game is critical in all coaching jobs. This is what many basketball organizations look for when choosing an individual for a coaching position. If an individual is looking to become a basketball coach overseas he/she is required to obtain a passport. This allows a potential coach to go outside his/her country when traveling overseas.
Coaches from the U.S. must be eligible to become FIBA approved coaches. Individuals must have either held head coach or assistant coaching positions or any combination for at least 5 years on a professional, collegiate or scholastic level that is a part of USA Basketball. The prospective candidate must also provide legal documentation proving his/her career as a coach along with references and must be a legal citizen of the United States of America. There is also a $30 administrative fee that is to be paid to USA Basketball. Once the above criteria has been met the individual must wait for approval and then can start their career as an international basketball coach.
Of course, the easiest way to get a foot in the door is to make contacts by taking trips and participating in coaching camps and clinics. Also, if you’ve been a head coach for some time, you might have to have a little pride and become an assistant to prove your skills.
Brad Bristol says
My name is Brad Bristol and I have been a head coach at the high school level for 12 years. I also spent 2 years as an assistant coach at Pensacola Christian College. I want to coach overseas. I need to know where is the best place and how do I position myself to get there.
Bob Carroll says
Dear Brad
Contact me at my e mail address or call me at 210-291-0119
and I can give you some advise. I have been to all six continnets that play basketball and I have served as a FIBA basketball expert. I know its been three years since your post. But contact me anyway.
Marvin Dixon says
My namebis Marvin Dixon. I want to start a career in coaching professional basketball in other countries. I was a head coach in the ABA. What do I need to do? You can e mail me at marvindixon28@gmail.com.
David Galley says
Can you give me some advice on how to become eligible to coach internationally? I am currently coaching High School basketball in Los Angeles California. I have been a head coach for 11 seasons.
Thanks,
Dave Galley
Jason Price says
I have been a high school head coach and AAU coach for about 12 years and a assistant coach for the last 2 years at Kwantlen University in Canada, and now I’m wanting to coach professionally overseas. How do I get the ball rolling to achieve my goals.
Thanks,
Jason Price
Anthony Cooper says
I have coached both men and women at the high school, juco, four year level, and would like to coach overseas. Can you tell me how the process works. I have over 20 years in coaching.
Justin Thiessen says
Hello Coach,
I’m a Canadian FIBA certified coach who is teaching and coaching at a Canadian High School in China. I finish a Masters Degree in coaching in April. I am looking at taking the next step up to professional. I was wondering what advice you could offer.
Thank you,
Tom Ferriero says
I plan to retire from Teaching in USA and want to try coaching basketball overseas.Can you give me advice and how to, to give this a shot?
My name is Tom Ferriero
Coach KJ Ross says
I have been a Coach for a Texas High School for 10 years and am looking to branch out internationally.
Lisa says
Hello Coach,
My name is Lisa and I retired from the WNBA/ FIBA in 2010. I have a training company where I do skills work, player development and camps/ clinics/ trainings. I’m looking to get abroad to live/ train. I came across your website and wanted to know if you find placement for skills development specialists as well. Thank you for your time. I hope to hear from you soon.
Warmest,
Lisa
Dave says
I have been a high school head coach for 6 years and Director of Operations for an AAU club for 7 years. I’m looking to get into college or pro abroad. What steps do I need to take
Always Serving Him,
D. Famber