In this episode of Fullcourt Passport, Ric Bucher and Bostjan Nachbar revisit the start of Boki’s NBA journey, recalling his debut with the Houston Rockets alongside Yao Ming in 2002. They reflect on the challenges of transitioning from European basketball to the NBA’s physical, post-oriented style of the early 2000s, and how the game has since evolved into a faster, more perimeter-driven system that favors today’s international players. The conversation explores the rise of global talent—from Petrovic, Kukoc, and Nowitzki to today’s MVPs like Jokic and Doncic—and how Europe’s tactical, team-first player development contrasts with America’s individual, athletic focus. They also discuss cultural shifts that made the NBA more international, the importance of coaching systems in Europe, and how countries like France and Canada have modernized player development. Later, they debate whether an NBA Europe league would enhance or endanger EuroLeague’s unique culture, fan passion, and authenticity, agreeing that collaboration, not competition, would be ideal. The episode closes with their “Game of the Week,” Red Star Belgrade’s emotional home win over Real Madrid, a showcase of EuroLeague’s intensity, atmosphere, and deeply rooted basketball culture.

1:15 Boki introduction to the NBA

5:50 How Steve Francis mentored Boki and Ric introduced Francis to Destiny's Child and Beyonce

10:20 The difference between the NBA now vs. when Boki entered it

15:20 Where the rise of international players began and why

28:20 The advantages and disadvantages of the NBA starting a European league or joining EuroLeague

42:00 The role played by the media covering both the NBA and EuroLeague

53:00 A breakdown of the Game of the Week, Red Star vs. Real Madrid

#nba #euroleague #euroleaguebasketball #houstonrockets

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