Mental Health And Wellness For International NBA Players – A Game Changer
- Brainz Magazine
- Dec 5, 2024
- 5 min read
Introducing Slobodan Nesovic, an experienced psychologist whose journey from the tumultuous landscapes of Serbia to the bustling streets of San Francisco has shaped his profound understanding of human nature.
The NBA is a global showcase of basketball talent, drawing players from every corner of the world. In the 2024/2025 season, 125 international players from 43 countries compete, accounting for over a quarter of the league's roster. With French and Serbian as the second and third most spoken languages in the NBA, the diversity is unmistakable. Yet, this cultural richness comes with unique challenges, none more pressing than these players' mental health and wellness.
The overlooked aspect of transition
For years, the spotlight on international players' transition to the NBA focused on on-court adjustments—learning new systems, adapting to the league’s pace, and competing against elite talent. However, the mental and emotional toll of uprooting one's life, often at a young age, was largely overlooked.
This changed in 2018 when the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) launched its Mental Health and Wellness Program under the leadership of Dr. William Parham, a pioneer in sports psychology. Dr. Parham has long advocated for the importance of mental health in athletes’ success, emphasizing how addressing trauma, anxiety, and stress can be as vital as physical training.
Unique challenges for international players
For international athletes, the adjustment goes beyond the hardwood. Established players like Vasilije Micić, a former European Championship League MVP from Serbia, must navigate cultural differences, a new play system, and the pressure of being away from Europe. Some young players, like Luka Dončić and Victor Wembanyama, appear to thrive in this transition, while others might struggle.
Historically, the transition has not always been smooth. Consider Serbian basketball icon Aleksandar Đorđević, who joined the Portland Trail Blazers in 1996. Despite his illustrious career in Europe, Đorđević played only eight NBA games before being waived—a short stint that likely reflected more than basketball ability. The absence of tailored mental health support may have played a role in his poor transition to the league.
Young stars in 2024 draft like Nikola Topić of the Oklahoma City Thunder illustrate the vulnerability of international players. Joining the league as teenagers, they must simultaneously contend with a grueling NBA schedule, cultural dislocation, and the weight of expectations. With proper support, the mental strain can be manageable. Topic has been adjusting well due to the excellent team culture and friendly costars.
Mental health: The key to unlocking potential
Today, mental health resources are becoming as integral as physical training. High-profile players like Kevin Love and Andre Drummond have helped destigmatize mental health struggles. Kevin Love, a five-time NBA All-Star, has been candid about his experiences with anxiety and depression. His famous 2018 essay in The Players' Tribune titled "Everyone Is Going Through Something" resonated deeply, shedding light on the importance of mental wellness. “I learned that it’s okay to not be okay,” Love wrote, calling for more open conversations about mental health.
Similarly, Andre Drummond has been vocal about the transformative power of therapy. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “I felt myself crying for help. But I didn’t know how to ask for it.” These voices underscore that even the best athletes can benefit from professional support to perform at their peak.
The NBA’s mental health and wellness program
Dr. Parham’s leadership has been instrumental in normalizing mental health care for NBA players. The program provides access to a directory of qualified professionals, including psychologists, marriage and family therapists, sports counselors, and psychiatrists. These resources are now available to all 450 NBA players, empowering them to seek help.
This shift represents a cultural change within the league. Seeking therapy should not be seen as a sign of weakness; instead, it must be viewed as a tool for achieving excellence both on and off the court.
International players: A growing emphasis
For international players, access to these services is particularly transformative. Legendary Serbian agent Rade Filipović, who has brought Balkan players such as Goran Dragić, Marko Jarić, and Vasilije Micić to the NBA, recognizes the importance of mental health in their clients’ success. Filipović stated, “Anything that can make a player do better on the court is of tremendous value. And sports psychology is going to play a huge role.”
The mental health support network ensures players aren’t alone in their journey. Whether it’s managing homesickness, adapting to a new culture, or dealing with the pressures of competition, international athletes now have a robust support system to lean on.
Building a holistic support system
Integrating sports psychologists into NBA teams has redefined the role of player development staff. Coaches, trainers, and mental health professionals collaborate to create a holistic support system for players. This comprehensive approach has benefited young international players who are adjusting to the NBA’s demands.
Nikola Jokić, the Denver Nuggets’ Serbian superstar and reigning MVP, has highlighted the importance of maintaining balance. Known for his calm demeanor and focus on family, Jokić exemplifies how prioritizing mental wellness can translate into sustained success on the court.
Breaking the stigma
The NBA’s efforts reflect a broader societal shift in the perception of mental health. By providing players with access to resources and encouraging open dialogue, the league is challenging outdated notions that equate vulnerability with weakness.
This progress is particularly significant for international players, many of whom come from cultures where mental health discussions remain taboo. By addressing these challenges head-on, the NBA is not only supporting its players but also influencing the global conversation around mental wellness.
The road ahead
As the NBA continues to globalize, prioritizing the mental health of its players—particularly those from international backgrounds—will be essential. The league has taken significant strides, but there is always room for growth. Expanding culturally sensitive mental health programs and increasing awareness among players, staff, and fans will further strengthen the foundation already in place.
For international NBA players, mental health support is more than a resource—it’s a lifeline. It helps them navigate the unique challenges of their journey, unlocking their full potential and allowing them to thrive both on and off the court. As Kevin Love aptly put it, “Mental health is an invisible thing, but it touches all of us at some point or another. It’s part of life.”
By championing mental wellness, the NBA is not just changing the game—it’s changing lives. Please visit here for more information about sports psychology and elite player development.
Slobodan Nesovic, CA licensed Clinical Psychologist
Slobodan Nesovic, PsyD, is a seasoned California-licensed clinical psychologist with a deep-rooted passion for psycho-spiritual development spanning over two decades. Inspired by spiritual experiences in the Arizona desert during his late teens, Slobodan embarked on a journey of self-discovery, delving into the works of Plato, Lao Tzu, Jung, and Nikola Tesla.
With over 17 years of experience, Slobodan integrates a unique approach to therapy—PsychoEnalysis—blending energy psychology, psychodynamic methods, and spirituality. As a psychologist and a Complete Meditation (CM) teacher, he empowers clients to navigate their journey to healing and self-discovery, leveraging his holistic understanding of human nature.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Slobodan is a dedicated father, quantum medicine enthusiast, and admirer of Nikola Tesla's work. A basketball lover, he even shared the court with future NBA player Marko Jaric. For a transformative experience tailored to mind and spirit, connect with Slobodan for a free 20-minute phone consultation at +1 747 327 6333 or click here – https://drnesovic.com/home
