TAHA SHAKEEL

The European Student-Athlete 2.0: Taha Shakeel Signs in Spain

We are thrilled to announce that Taha Shakeel, a dynamic Point Guard/Shooting Guard, has officially signed with a competitive team in the Valencian region for the 2025-26 season. At just 22 years old, Taha is pioneering a unique career path that combines professional basketball aspirations with high-level academia through the EuroProBasket Institute. While leading his new team on the court, Taha is simultaneously pursuing a Masters in International Relations at the prestigious Universidad Europea de Valencia.

From Indiana to the Mediterranean

Standing at 6’0” (183cm), the American/Pakistani guard arrived in Valencia with a clear goal: to elevate his game to the professional European standard. Coming from Indiana University Bloomington, the transition to life in Spain has been a welcome change.

“I am from Indiana, where it’s -13 C right now and buried in snow, so being able to walk to practice in shorts definitely says a lot,” Taha jokes. Beyond the weather, he notes that Valencia is “one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been,” highlighting the historic architecture and the proximity to the Mediterranean sea.

Elite Coaching and “Real Results”

Taha’s success is a direct result of the EuroPro Institute model—a program designed for athletes who refuse to compromise. According to Taha, the biggest differentiator was the level of expertise available.

“The professionalism… is unlike anything I’ve experienced before,” Taha says. He credits the strength and conditioning staff for delivering “real results” in his explosiveness and balance. On the court, working with Coach Gabriele and Coach Pascal was transformative. “Coach G taught me a lot about reading the game… and Coach Pascal really helped me take that next leap with my actual skillset and playmaking.”

Taha thrived under Coach Pascal’s system, which utilized his natural speed in transition. “He has trusted me to play point guard… learning to play fast within his flow system has helped me make the right reads, stay under control, and ultimately become a better basketball player.”

Two Pathways, One Goal

By joining the EuroPro Institute, Taha has effectively opened two professional doors. On the court, he is gaining valuable experience and exposure in the European basketball market. Off the court, he is securing his future with a postgraduate degree.

“Studying in Spain has been very different mainly because of the people I’ve met… my best friends are from Italy, Morocco, and France,” Taha shares. He describes the academic program as “hands-on,” offering opportunities with embassies and NGOs. “It feels more balanced than the U.S. system. You are expected to take your studies seriously while also being treated as a serious basketball player.”

A Strong Foundation

We are incredibly proud of Taha for his dedication to continuous improvement. When asked about his future, he remains focused on growth: “As long as I keep improving, the opportunities will come.” Simultaneously, his Masters in International Relations provides a safety net for life after sport. “I have always been passionate about human rights, and this degree opens doors for me.”

For players considering this path, Taha offers this advice: “Coming here has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made… This program gives you real exposure, if you can play, you’ll get seen.”

Congratulations, Taha! We look forward to watching you dominate the court and the classroom this season.