By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
It’s obvious that the production values outside the court in Europe can’t be compared with the NBA. However, on the other hand, it’s also obvious that the competition level is much higher than most assume, especially on the other side of the Atlantic.
Back in the 80s and the 90s, an NBA import was automatically the go-to guy in every team with very few exceptions. But in 2021 things simply don’t work this way and playing in the top level of Europe is not a walk in the park for anyone.
With four games in the books, this is more than obvious in the case of Thon Maker and Hapoel Jerusalem. While Maker during his six years in the NBA couldn’t establish himself and the move to Europe was his way to boost his career, the 24-years old forward, once a teammate of Giannis Antetokounmpo and the 10th pick of the 2016 draft, can’t deliver yet.
Hapoel Jerusalem was expecting a lot of him, but contrary to his teammate and also the no1 pick of the 2013 draft, Anthony Bennett, who is trying to find his path in Europe after having the experience of playing for Fenerbahce in the EuroLeague, Maker seems to be caught by surprise.
So far he is averaging just 2,8 points per game, while his NBA average was 4,6 points per game and 5,6 points per game in 16 playoffs games. Of course, we are still at the start of the season, Hapoel Jerusalem already had a coaching change with Yotam Halperin replacing Oren Amiel and Maker can turn things around.
Still, no matter the angle, the obvious fact remains. Playing on the top level of Europe is not easy and even top NBA draft picks may struggle while – especially in the Basketball Champions League – local talent has the ability to shine, even if they are coming from domestic leagues in Europe which are not considered among the top.