Nicolas Jorba, 6’5″ American/Spanish Guard, left yesterday on a two day tryout with a Liga EBA team in the Canary Islands. A beautiful Spanish island off the coast of Africa isn’t a bad way to finish the 2023-24 basketball season. Nicolas is in preparation for a University basketball career so the experience playing half a season in a good European competition is going to give him a boost to help him reach his goals.
We caught up with Nicolas to ask some questions about his background and tryout.
Tell us where you were born and where you grew up. When did you start playing basketball?
I was born in Madrid, but I grew up and lived in New York all my life. I’ve played soccer since I was little in an academy in Manhattan. I fell in love with basketball at the park while playing pickup. Freshman year of high school I decided to stop playing soccer and start taking basketball seriously.
Who were your role models growing up? What kind of knowledge did they pass on to you to make you the player you are today?
My role models growing up were the players I would play pickup with. Most of them played for fun but some of them used to play overseas or were in College. I have always been the youngest on the court so they would take me under their wing giving me knowledge on how to be more efficient.
What experience do you have playing organised basketball?
I played organised basketball at an all boys catholic high school for 2 years called Xavier and then later transferred to a prep school in upstate New York called Millbrook. I played AAU for two teams during high school. I started playing for Jayhawks, a team out of Long Island and then joined ProLevelTitans out of Manhattan.
What made you decide to attend EuroProBasket?
What made me decide to attend EuroProBasket was the great opportunities that it had provided for many players. As well as the professional Coaching staff that they had.
How was your experience in the academy?
My experience in the academy was very intense and full of great coaching. I was able to quickly learn European basketball as well as improve in different technical aspects of the game. It was definitely worth the investment.
What was the process to receive your first opportunity to play in Spain?
After a few good games I received interest from a team in Catalunya. I then made my highlight tape that received some more interest from a team willing to give me an opportunity in their program in Tenerife.
What can you tell us about your first experience playing basketball in Europe?
I noticed that it was more about moving the ball and dribbling it. Playing in a European system allows for easier scoring as a team.
What adjustments did you have to make to be more successful playing a European style of basketball?
I had to learn how to make faster decisions and move better without the ball.
What adjustments did you have to make to live abroad?
Adjustments I had to make to living abroad were getting used to the food and the different culture. But it was definitely easier since I am from Spanish origin.
You’re currently on a tryout on a beautiful Spanish Island. How has it gone so far?
It’s been a very good experience, being able to play in such a beautiful place has been a blessing. I’ve enjoyed the competitiveness of the team I’m trying out for.
What does it mean to come back to Spain and play in the country you and your family are originally from?
It’s been an amazing experience, reconnecting with my heritage has definitely motivated me to keep playing in Spain.
Where do you see yourself two years from now and 5 years from now?
In two years I see myself playing for a team in a D1 college program. In 5 years I wanna make my way back to Europe to play professionally at a high division.
What advice would you give to players interested in playing overseas?
I would advise them to prioritise IQ and athleticism in order to become an impactful player overseas
Would you recommend EuroProBasket to players interested in getting started overseas?
I would definitely recommend EuroProBasket to anyone interested in playing overseas. It’s a good opportunity to learn European basketball and improve as a player, as well as receive opportunities from all over Europe.
