Choosing a basketball agent can be a daunting task, but it is an important decision that can impact your career. A good agent will help you negotiate contracts, market your brand, and provide valuable advice and guidance. Here are 7 tips to help you choose the right basketball agent for you.
1. Research potential agents
It’s important to do your due diligence and research potential agents before making a decision. Look for agents who have a proven track record of success with clients in your position. Check out their website and social media accounts to get a sense of their reputation and experience. If you are a prospect or a good player, agents will come to you and ask to represent you.
2. Ask for recommendations
Reach out to other players and coaches in the basketball community for recommendations on agents. They may have worked with agents in the past and can provide valuable insight and advice. My recommendation is Tangram Sports. An agency that I signed with in 2019, and have been nothing but great for me so far.
3. Consider their specialization
Some agents specialize in specific areas such as contract negotiations or marketing. We want to be paid high money for our skills. The higher the contract, the more money in your pocket, but also in the agent’s pocket. But be careful! Big contracts are not always the best. And agents might not always how your best interest at heart when they see that big money can be made. Signing a lower salary contract with a club and a coach that fits you well will make you more money in the long term. Marketing is also another skill that agents/agencies should have and it is overlooked. Marketing will help build your personal brand which in turn can benefit you during or post your career. Consider the needs of your career and look for an agent who can provide the services you need.
4. Look for experience
Experience is key when choosing a basketball agent. Look for agents who have worked with players at your level and have a track record of successful contract negotiations. Usually, experienced agents have a big enough network and trust in the market. When a “veteran” agent calls a club to recommend a player, they will immediately answer and most likely sign their players first.
5. Evaluate their communication style
Communication is crucial in the relationship between a player and their agent. Look for an agent who is responsive, transparent, and available to answer your questions and concerns. When negotiating contracts, communication is very important between the player and the agent. Make sure you explain to the agent exactly what you want from the new contract, and also adapt as the negotiation goes on. Also, the agent needs to be prompt and answer every question you might have. Remember, they work for you, not you for them. If you feel like an agent does not do their job, or does not have your best interest at heart, fire them and find another one.
6. Meet in person
It’s important to meet with potential agents in person to get a sense of their personalities and communication style. This will also give you an opportunity to ask any questions and discuss your goals and expectations. Now it might not be always possible to talk face-to-face. Thanks to technology these days, we have Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime. Get to know your agent. The way he recruits you will be the way he will negotiate contracts as well.
7. Trust your instincts
The decision on which agent to choose should be based on your instincts and the fit between you and the agent. Trust your gut and choose an agent who you feel comfortable and confident working with.
Choosing a basketball agent is a crucial decision that can impact your career. Take the time to do your research, ask for recommendations, and meet with potential agents in person. Trust your instincts and choose an agent who can provide the services and support you need to succeed in the basketball world.
