Sports

How Europe helped Patterson find his way

Published

5 years ago

May 19, 2020

Jonathan Grilli

Photo curtesy - Julia Summers

Marcus Patterson needed to take a year off following an injury, but he came back stronger than ever.

Marcus Patterson had wrapped up his one and only season in England where he would find some success post-college. The 6-foot-4 guard would spend time with the University of East London. He would also suit up for the East London All-Star of the England National Basketball League following his stint with the University of East London.

Following his successes with the University of East London, Patterson got a cup of coffee with the London Lions of the BBL. It was the first professional team that the Bronx guard was able to be a part of and he learned a lot about the game during his time with them.

Patterson also would suffer an injury that would prevent him from progressing and receiving a professional contract following the year in England. Instead, he would return back to the states and continue to improve.

“I came back from England and started to train, workout, and perfect my craft. It was hard being away from the game, but I needed to get better to receive another opportunity.”

Patterson would continue to improve and relentlessly tried to find a home to continue his journey. He admitted it was tough at first.

“Seeing everyone go back and play was kind of tough,” Patterson said. “But I knew that I could get to where I wanted to be if I kept putting the work in.”

In addition to continuing his craft on the basketball court, the 6-foot-4 guard was hard at work getting himself out there.

“I had gone on the EuroBasket’s database. I emailed hundreds of coaches and reached out on LinkedIn and Facebook, and nothing. It would not stop me, though.”

The Sage graduate had received a tip of advice to enroll in the EuroBasket Portugal Tour 2019 where players compete against Portugal’s top teams. This was Patterson’s chance to impress and he did just that.

Patterson showed good ability to finish and also lock down the opposing team which led to him receiving his first professional contract from Portimonense SC, a first-tier team in Portugal. He did not disappoint, finishing on the All Portuguese First Division All-Import Team and All Portuguese First Division Second Team. He would also finish seventh in the league’s most valuable player voting.

Patterson is not under contract for this year coming up but is open to the option of returning to Portimonense.

Sports

At 6’10” and 260 Pounds of Power, NBA Scouts and Small Market Teams Believe Kévin Noulowe Belongs in the NBA

Published

4 weeks ago

November 28, 2024

Rosario Farell

For NBA teams in search of a dominant, athletic presence, Kévin Noulowe is an ideal candidate. The 6’10” forward brings together elite size, strength, and explosive athleticism that many believe make him an ideal fit for the NBA—if he can stay healthy.

Noulowe’s path to the top has been anything but conventional. A highly regarded high school prospect, he rapidly became one of the most coveted players in the junior college ranks. His impressive performances earned him All-American honors and a top-15 national ranking among junior college players, sparking the interest of over 60 Division I programs.

From there, Noulowe transitioned to play overseas in Armenia’s A League, where he made a major impact despite battling a knee injury. Averaging 13 points, 13 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks per game, Noulowe showcased his all-around game, proving he could dominate in all facets of play. Known as the most athletic big man the league had ever seen, he captivated fans with his rim-rattling dunks and above-the-rim play, quickly becoming a fan favorite.

Several NBA teams, particularly those in need of a versatile big man, have shown significant interest in Noulowe and have already spoken to his agent. With the NBA increasingly valuing big men who can stretch the floor, Noulowe’s focus on regaining full health and developing a consistent jump shot has only heightened his appeal. His combination of physical dominance and developing shooting ability has made him a player to watch for scouts.

What makes Noulowe truly exceptional is his physical prowess. With a powerful 7’3″ wingspan and a 40-inch vertical leap, he has the tools to be a game-changer on both ends of the court. Noulowe is a nightmare for opponents on defense, using his strength, agility, and length to block shots and control the boards. As a finisher, he can absorb contact and finish with authority, making him a versatile threat in the paint. Whether playing the 3, 4, or 5 positions, he is capable of impacting the game from anywhere on the floor and is poised to become one of the NBA’s strongest forwards.

Perhaps what sets Noulowe apart most is his unwavering determination. His relentless work ethic and commitment to improving his skills have kept NBA teams intrigued. His dedication to his craft and his drive to succeed have made him a standout prospect.

The verdict from NBA scouts and coaches is clear: when Noulowe is fully healthy, he has the tools to not only compete but thrive in the NBA. With his journey far from over, all eyes are on this 6’10” powerhouse as he looks to bring his game to the highest level.