HOW IT STARTED
"I started playing basketball because of my two older brothers—I just wanted to follow their lead. I played in high school with one of my brothers, while the other served as a coach. Basketball is a family business!"
Certified Bucket Since Day One
"I'm not the biggest or fastest on the court, so I knew early on that I’d need to find unique ways to score. Using my size to my advantage has always been part of my game. Aggression has been key for me, a mindset I’ve had since I was young. I work extremely hard to make an impact. Scoring has always been in my blood."
Scoring has always been in my blood.
ROLE MODEL
"Steph Curry and Damian Lillard inspire me, but the player I watched most closely is Isaiah Thomas. He was a huge influence, especially when I was in college. When he played for the Celtics, he had an MVP-caliber season in my eyes. He always played outstanding basketball, and I feel he never received the respect he deserved in the NBA. His game has had a big impact on many smaller guards, so I owe him a lot."
NBA TIMING
"It’s really all about timing. My draft year was during COVID, and the team I was on already had a deep lineup of talented guards.
I believe I can play in the NBA, but I also trust that God has a plan for me. It’s nobody’s fault, and I wouldn’t change anything about my journey. I feel fortunate to be where I am."
OVERSEAS BOND
"I wanted to play at a high level, so my agent and I decided on Europe. The first contact we had was with Baskonia.
My wife and I were looking for our next step, and moving to Spain to play for this club turned out to be one of my best decisions. Playing in both the EuroLeague and Liga ACB is a privilege.
I didn’t know much about the club or even where the city was on the map when I signed, but I was excited to play at the EuroLeague level. The EuroLeague is top-tier; it’s no joke, and I realised that after just my first week."
FIRST EUROLEAGUE EXPERIENCE
"Playing away games and experiencing the fans and how they support their teams—and seeing just how big some arenas are—reminded me a lot of college. Fans here are on another level. It was a real eye-opener and a great experience."
SCORING ACHIEVEMENTS
"After a strong rookie season averaging 16 points per game, I took it up a notch last season, finishing with over 19 points per game and winning the top scorer trophy, ahead of players like Mike James.
Scoring wasn’t necessarily my main goal; it’s just part of who I am—I’m always aggressive and looking to score. I’m grateful to be part of a team with coaches and players who believe in me and let me play my game. It’s an honour to be recognized, especially among so many great scorers in the league."
FAQ
Can you give tips for players your height who want to go pro?
"First, confidence is key. Confidence comes with practice—working hard and believing in what you’re doing builds confidence, which already makes you a better player. Prepare by practising the way you’d play in a game. Work ethic is essential; don’t be lazy, and be honest with yourself about what you can do well and what you need to improve. Focus on building those weaker areas."
Your top three EuroLeague players:
Mike James, Shane Larkin, Kendrick Nunn
Underrated players in the EuroLeague:
Nigel Hayes-Davis and Tyrique Jones.
Build your EuroLeague team to win the title:
Kendrick Nunn
Mike James
Nigel Hayes-Davis
Chima Moneke
Mathias Lessort
Sixth man: Wade Baldwin
We want to thank Markus Howard for his time and wish Baskonia the best this season.
