Geovonte Rose: “Coaches in Europe don’t like dealing with players who can be a head case that causes problems”

Interview with Europe Basketball Academy player Geovonte Rose that signed the first contract to play professionally in Spain week ago.

Where you started to play basketball and if you may explain your basketball background?
 I didn't really start playing organized basketball until 7th grade. I was playing at a YMCA here in Cleveland, and a coach liked what he saw. That's when I was introduced to AAU.

Why did you decide to join Europe Basketball Academy?
It was tough getting into the European market for me because no one knew who I was. Dealing with overseas you have to market yourself and make sure you connect with the right people.

How did you hear about our academy? Who recommended it to you?
I decided to join the academy because a friend of mine who was already playing at the pro level, said it would give me more opportunities.

Did you attend some camps and if you did can you explain the difference between those camps and Europe Basketball Academy?
The academy was the only camp I attended after college.

What is the difference between playing in Europe and where you played before coming to Europe?
One thing that stood out as the difference maker between where I came from and Europe was the physical part of the game. Playing in Europe was very physical, you had to really work for a bucket/point.

How did the days look for you at Europe Basketball Academy? Describe the regular day you were going through? Describe what new you learned about European basketball in Europe Basketball Academy?
Being part of the Academy wasn't an easy thing. You had to be mentally and physically strong. Waking up every day at 7am to get ready for practice, walking miles and I mean miles everywhere you went. Having two practices a day and having to go to the weight room, they made sure you were getting in shape. I've learned that if you could be mentally tough and be patient good things can happen.

Your advice to players that are considering joining Europe Basketball Academy? What are values that we share? What kind of player should enter academy?
For players that want to play at the next level, make sure you are in shape and have a great attitude. A lot of coaches in Europe don't like dealing with players who can be a head case that causes problems. It doesn't matter if you are talented all the time you have to carry yourself as a professional all around.

Share some interesting situations that you experienced in the academy that you will remember and that made a strong impression on you.
I remember going into the academy thinking I was in good shape. After our second practice of the day my whole body cramped up pretty bad, and I was rushed to the hospital. It was because of dehydration. Coach Srdjan Premovic stood by my side and made sure I was getting proper treatment. We all laughed about it after I was okay and recovered. I feel that I showed my character as I continue to push through until I physically couldn't  anymore. I did that day because that's how bad I wanted it.

Where you ended up after you attended Europe Basketball Academy?
I ended up signing pro contract with a team in Valencia Spain.

Here you may write some finishing comments what you find important to share.
The Europe Basketball Academy is an opportunity for serious players who want to take their game to the next level. It's great; well organize Academy. Through this program, if you work hard and listen the sky is the limit for you.