By Javier Molero/ jmolero@eurohoops.net
Spanish and European basketball is experiencing a new reality. After decades with academies as the primary source of talent, the NCAA has gained prominence in recent seasons as an alternative development path.
Dozens of players choose the college route every summer, with the NCAA being a key factor to consider and offering a different kind of development than usual. This is the case of Great Osobor, born in Tudela (Spain), raised in the UK, and with American basketball in his blood.
Four NCAA seasons under his belt have shaped him into one of the biggest players to watch in the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers with the Spanish National Team. After a brilliant debut against Denmark (12 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 steals), Osobor has introduced himself to the world. But it’s important to know that he has worked harder than anyone else to get there.
Ups and downs in the US
His development has been shaped by the so-called mid-majors, the secondary conferences of college basketball. He started in Big Sky with Montana State, a two-season showcase that allowed him to continue growing. With few renowned rivals (only Northern Colorado and Idaho), he made the jump to Utah State for the most important months of his career.
His 2023/2024 season made him a name for himself in the Spanish basketball scene. Moving up a conference (in the Mountain West with universities like Colorado State, Boise State, and San Diego State) and demonstrating that he could be part of the future of Spanish basketball, he worked twice as hard as other prospects on a smaller stage, earning the right to be mentioned.
With the conference MVP award under his belt (a trophy previously won by Omari Moore, Malachi Flynn, and Jimmer Fredette, among others), these months of strong play led him to one of the most lucrative contracts the NIL has ever offered, signing with the University of Washington.
Already part of a Big Ten, his impact was enough to gain exposure after completing their four years of university. And that brings us to the present.
A unique profile in Spain
Unable to play in the Spanish league because he could not comply with the three-year training requirement, he went to Germany (Science City Jena)… and then, to the national team. After a summer as a key player for the national team’s B squad, Great’s opportunity arrived thanks to Chus Mateo.
And his impact was immediately felt on the court. With his footwork, post skills, and quick hands to steal and grab every rebound, Osobor shone in his debut against Denmark. The fact that NCAA, NBA, and some EuroLeague players are ineligible gives him a chance to make a name for himself in a Spanish team that promises changes in upcoming rosters.
A difficult path, without the spotlight, but with the daily reminder of never giving up. From Montana State to the national team, from Tudela to becoming one of the top prospects in Spanish basketball at just 22 years old. An alternative route that both he and Álvaro Cárdenas have exploited to the fullest to demonstrate that they are also part of the present.