Former men’s basketball standout, Craig Bradshaw, signed an eight-month contract to play professional basketball in Germany.
“I want to play at the highest level possible, and that is the Pro A in Germany. This is going to be a fun team to play on,” Bradshaw said of his new team, the PS Karlsruhe Lions.
This will be the second year Bradshaw played in Germany. Last year he played for the Crailsheim Merlins and then transferred to the Niners Chemnitz where he scored in double digits eight times.
During his Belmont career, Bradshaw scored 1,698 points and ended his senior season with 87 3-pointers. Bradshaw was also a two-time All-OVC first team selection and was named to the NABC All-District first team.
Although basketball comes easy to Bradshaw, the adjustment from life in the United States to Germany didn’t.
“Last year was hard, finding things to do is tough,” Bradshaw said. “In Nashville, I would go to a movie with friends. Over here, I have to wait for an English movie night.”
That language barrier proved to be somewhat of a challenge for Bradshaw and his teammates, however most players speak some English and two are American.
But the language barrier and cultural differences didn’t prevent Bradshaw from playing ball.
“I’m a basketball player, and I love to play basketball. I’m not going to give it up that easy.”
Belmont Head Coach Rick Byrd said he knew Bradshaw would rise to the challenge of playing professional basketball overseas.
“His first year wasn’t always easy, getting acclimated to life overseas, language barriers, new teammates and expectations as a professional basketball player,” Byrd wrote in a statement. “But Craig maintained a positive attitude, learned throughout the process, and is poised to see his role grow this season.”
“He continues to be a wonderful ambassador for our university and our basketball program.”
Bradshaw — inspired by past Belmont teammates — hopes to serve as an example for current Bruins who aspire to someday play professionally, too.
“Keep loving the game, because it turns into a business,” Bradshaw advised. “You keep having fun. Be patient. You will get your opportunity.”
“Just be patient.”
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This article written by Paris Lawson.