Satnam Singh Bhamara will strive to play fearlessly

India’s ambassador in the NBA

A look at videos of Satnam Singh Bhamara’s performances at the IMG Academy will leave no doubt of his talent. Add that to the fact that he hails from a country that isn’t too enthusiastic about basketball. Into the mix goes his gigantic physique. The result is pleasantly surprising: a hard-nosed, self-effacing 19-year-old with a redoubtable work ethic.

On his first trip to India since he became the first Indian-born player to be drafted for an NBA franchise, Bhamara spoke to Vishnu Ravi Shankar of Ekalavyas, the premier basketball website in India. Here are a few excerpts from the interview:

“...NEW DOORS HAD OPENED FOR ME”

The 7”2’ center from Punjab begins by recounting his NBA Summer League experience, saying that he learnt a good deal from it which contibuted to his growth as a player. His relief is apparent from his expression as he describes how all the nervousness melted away when he first touched the ball and scored. That moment of self-realisation flooded him with confidence to play fearlessly, imbuing him the faith that he would succed.

“...WHATEVER HAPPENS WILL HAPPEN”

With a chuckle, Satnam talks about what was going through his mind on June 25th, the night of the NBA Draft. On being asked if he was worried about not getting picked, he said, with quiet stoicism, that he went in thinking that he would find another route to success if that occurred. He says he was counting the number of players who had been picked and as the cameras zoomed in on him at number 52, it dawned on him. Even as emotions got the better of him and he broke down, he says all that went through his mind was that he had done his country proud.

“...I’M THE ONLY INDIAN, ...HOPE I’M NOT IN A SITUATION WHERE I DON’T GET TO PLAY”

For the first time in the interview, one realises that this young giant is still a teenager. The emotion is palpable on his face as he talks about being the lone Indian in the NBA. The pressure and expectations are ever-tangible, he says, but another Indian in the league would be a god-send, irrespective of the team he plays for. Not just because it would assuage the loneliness, but also because it would pave the way for more Indians to make it to the world’s foremost basketball league.

“...I NEVER AVOID MAKING NEW FRIENDS”

The young Punjabi’s affability is perceptible as he warmly says that anyone he knows, irrespective of how well, is considered a friend. His relationship with Dallas Maverick’s debutante Justin Anderson is good, and the latter offers solid advice and always discusses things with Satnam.

“...ANYONE CAN MAKE IT”

Given his youth and the distinction, it is to be expected that other youngsters in India will look upto him. His advice for them is not to be negative, and to make their own fortune. A few occassional strokes of luck should be accepted gladly, but it is hard work that will lead to lasting success. He cites his own example, saying that he used his god-given physical gifts to get him where he is, and that just being tall isn’t everything in the NBA. Satnam emphasizes that a variety of skills are sought after in the NBA, such as shooting, dribbling, passing etc. and brilliance in these aspects will eventually be rewarded. He preached unselfishness, and to help others in, within the game and without. Words to be heeded indeed.