We had the opportunity to talk with Jakobi Bonner about his professional basketball experience so far. Jakobi currently plays professionally for the Thames Valley Cavaliers of the NBL Division 1 in London, England where he is averaging 22 PPG. Prior to his professional career, Jakobi was an all conference selection and averaged 18 PPG at division 2 Rollins College. Jakobi has great insights for any players trying to continue their career at the next level. Major thanks to Jakobi for taking the time to share his journey with us!
1) How do you feel being a D2 player impacted your journey to playing pro?
Realistically it hurt me. Can't deny it. Granted, if I was Division 3, NAIA or anything else my chances would've been negatively impacted more, but pro teams and agents will literally turn their heads on you sometimes if your resume says anything other than D1. No matter the prestige of your school, level of competition, or career achievements. People in the industry will hold that lower division against you -- so be prepared for an upward battle, ESPECIALLY in the age of covid. It's frustrating because obviously if you're a ball player, then you can hoop. But if you're not calling the shots you gotta figure it out and be ready to prove yourself if given the opportunity.
2) How many combines/showcases have you participated in? What were your experiences?
I didn't go to any. Be cautious and alert and recognize your situation. Some combines and showcases will provide you the necessary exposure to lengthen your career and provide you valuable opportunities. But I can say from my experiences with certain ads, and people: they are money hungry and could care less about your career as a player.
3) You essentially took a year off due to COVID affecting your season, how did that impact your process and how did you stay ready?
The fact that I had a year off almost single-handedly ended my basketball career. It was a situation that hindered my career as a player, both externally and internally. To so many people in the industry, you're essentially a damaged product -- no one wants to take a chance on you, despite the circumstances being completely out of your control. It was more than hurtful at times, but it's also a business. My confidence and self-esteem was also impacted, because not only were doors being closed in my face, that I knew I could have gotten if COVID didn't occur; but there were numerous nagging questions that plagued me: would I be ready to play? Would my timing still be up to par? Could my body handle the transition? Would the work I was putting in be enough, when an opportunity would arise?
I thought I did everything right to stay ready. I would get onto any court I could whether that be outside or indoors. I started doing Yoga, and more stretching. I analyzed old films of mine, and of teams and leagues that I could potentially be playing in. I worked out in my room and at parks. I endlessly reached out for advice and networking opportunities from former and current players. I put myself in the mentality that I was still playing on a team and disciplined myself to treat everyday as a chance to get better. I felt as if my mind and body were sharp, but the opportunities just seemed to keep slipping away because of the uncontrollable gap in my resume.
4) What has been the most difficult transition from college to pro basketball, either on or off of the court?
There are many different factors affecting you as an overseas professional basketball player, that if you don't recognize and effectively handle, could hurt your performance. Many players can probably attest to the fact that the basketball part will be easy. Despite the play style being different, we are well prepared coming from America. It's the other factors that will hurt you. Sometimes gym time won't be the same as what you're used to. You may only work out once a day for your allocated time in the gym with your team, for two times a week and that's it. Will you be able to find your rhythm as a player if this is the case? You may be homesick, and not adjust well to the new country you'll be moving to, in addition to loneliness. How bad could that deplete your focus when it comes time to perform?
There are so many other elements and components that I could bring up, but you have to think of this from all angles and sides. There are many great things that come along with a career, but you don't want to be blindsided by anything you didn't prepare yourself to face. Just recognize that there will be a change, and an adjustment period so be patient with yourself as you grow and adapt.
5) Overall, how was the process of trying to secure a pro contract and what advice would you give someone about to begin this journey?
Don't let your self worth diminish from the strains of this arduous process. Realise that everything you have been doing, no matter what, is meaningful and will pay off if you keep putting one foot in front of the other. Your patience will be tested, but you need to recognize the why of your actions, in order to find motivation everyday when something doesn't go your way.
Realize that the temporary pains you face, from the inability to breakthrough in such an unpredictable and cutthroat industry will only make you a stronger person in the end. It's a business, so recognize the value you bring to the table, market yourself effectively, and count on yourself when no one seems to notice you.