I Moved Overseas to Play Pro Basketball…Was it Worth it?

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I'm finally back home from my first professional basketball season in Finland. In this video, I talk about what playing abroad was like, how I adjusted to living in a new country, and yes, how much money I made over the course of my first pro season.
Let me know where I should try and play next season!
Follow me on IG: / tuckrich
Please subscribe!

[@FFLounge]

$3200 a month without having to pay rent (usually the biggest expense), at your age, while getting to live in another country is not bad at all.

[@TuckerRichardson]

I agree, I feel very lucky.

[@Kkippis5000]

yeah and not to mention the tax free monthly salary! Basically if you want you can save the majority of the whole year’s money earned which most people tend to forget

[@brandonlogan2600]

50k-60k to Hoop is literally a dream for me man I'd be more than ecstatic to go to work if I could

[@editsbymarcin]

@@Kkippis5000 you still get double taxed as a US citizen

[@thewealthofnations4827]

Great point. You need to compare your salary to the average person not the pros in the NBA or WNBA. WNBA makes 3x as much as the average American. They should compare themselves to the average American not to players in NBA when looking at differences in salary.

[@dontuse10]

Winning a chip in your pro ROOKIE season is insane, well done man

[@TuckerRichardson]

I feel so lucky yet again!

[@peaceidk6497]

@@TuckerRichardson you earned it bro! congrats.

[@TuckerRichardson]

thank you!

[@lakershow772]

Facts but he’s worked his ass off for this experience so it’s well deserved 💪🏾

[@psyclopxx]

@@lakershow772 Yeah. Well done, Tucker!! You are my inspiration🔥🔥💪🏽💪🏽😤😤

[@colinclean46]

For anyone who's interested: After the regular season, he finished 10th in scoring, 9th in assists, 5th in steals. Total season stats including the playoff run were: 16.5 points per game 4.7 assists per game 1.84 steals per game 36.7% 3-point percentage 47.25% field goal percentage Great rookie year, keep it up!

[@andriusnesvarbu-o8d]

nice stats but finland league is very weak. prolly below 20th league in europe. the level is not much higher than amateur leagues in some eu countires

[@subaquaticorchestra]

Finnish league is not fantastic but it is usually a nice stepping stone for stronger leagues.

[@jr5296]

thanks

[@senaarth]

the video was so interesting that by the time he actually talked about the money i had already completely forgotten he was going to talk about it

[@TuckerRichardson]

Hahahaha thank you

[@HumanOnEarth]

SAME!!

[@linusnanor1531]

Ngl, same

[@darrin.jahnel]

Same. Great vid

[@Brandnewshoes]

Same. I was more invested in everything else!

[@LemonyBrisket]

Money comes and goes . You truly look like you had the time of your life that stays with ya for ever.

[@TuckerRichardson]

I definitely did, can't complain at all!

[@seanthompson1197]

Having all those expenses covered allows you to save, which puts you way above average. Being on a Cinderella story team with an on fire fan base? That's GD priceless.

[@TuckerRichardson]

Agreed!

[@chrispy2014]

I played pro in Mexico rent paid and a stipend. We played big money tourneys for extra. Was a great time. I'm in my 40's and still live in Mexico. Not the NBA, but hey, I played pro and found my home

[@TuckerRichardson]

That is all that matters, such a cool story!

[@joeball13]

I love that there's a pocket on KZbin now, of guys that talk about what it's like playing overseas in each of these different countries and what to expect. Back in the old days when a guy will go overseas it was because his NBA career was over. We had no way to know what it was like or who any of the players were or how much they made, it's so cool now that people are seeing all of the different options they have if they want to try and make a living playing basketball. So many guys who probably could have made serious money overseas gave it all up because they had no idea that was possible.

[@TreyDrechsel5]

congrats brother! Thats big time!!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thanks Trey!

[@MrJu2a]

Thanks Tucker! You really shined in your first year and have a spot in every Nokia fans heart. Would be great to see you return some day to play or coach. A question: You mentioned you had a lot of time to spare, would you recommend the team organizing more activities to the foreign players? One thing I had in mind is to participate as coaches in the juniors practices.

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thanks for the comment! I think some imports might be interested in that, while others maybe don't as much haha. I personally think interacting with the younger players is great and I probably wish I did that a bit more this year. Overall it seems like guys usually don't mind the time on their own, but giving the option to do more activities can't be a bad thing!

[@HeyHo-h5w]

You've been to Finland, now it's time to come to Estonia. BC Kalev/Cramo awaits you. Our coach Heiko Rannula really loves intelligent and versatile players like you.

[@TuckerRichardson]

Good to know!

[@frf5000]

Mees käi perse cramol niigi mängijaid, mingi 23-0 record

[@scottgusler96]

I did the same thing many years ago in Switzerland. Your video brings back some great memories, Thank you. I played other places and experienced some unbelievable things as well. These memories and friendships will be some of your greatest. Enjoy every moment, and you are right, it isn't always about the money. Best of Luck going forward.

[@EverettBurger]

Your salary reminded me of my first job out of college: teacher at a boarding school. The salary was not high. But, I had zero expenses. My apartment was paid for. I ate all of my meals in the cafeteria with my students. My gym was the school's gym. Because I had such little expenses, I was able to pay off my college loans in just over three years

[@UntoVa09]

Final was one of the best games i have ever watched live

[@TuckerRichardson]

Probably the best game I've played in!

[@shinskoala7072]

That 3 point, fadeaway, buzzer-beater was sick, dude.

[@Giuseppe7774L]

this guy just seems like the nicest guy ever. Can just tell he cares a lot

[@alavijus6153]

Go to Lithuanian Basketball League, it's a pretty challenging league in Europe and Lithuanians are crazy about bball, some of the teams also play in top european leagues

[@TuckerRichardson]

Would definitely be a cool place to play!

[@dodododododo8311]

@@TuckerRichardson Lamelo and Diangelo Bal played in Lithuania , Lithuania got Euroleague team too, but basketball level in Lithuania way higher so more room to grow

[@ak47323]

@@TuckerRichardson climate is a little milder, and there are a few more hours of daylight in winter :D but winters are pretty grim still. Great league though, good level and culture of basketball

[@NT_Investicijos]

@@TuckerRichardson You should fit perfectly in BC Šiauliai, or Nevėžis, they mostly using youg players like you.

[@melbaker1175]

Won a ship in 2013 playing for the Seagulls against BC Nokia.. Lost team them in 2014 to go to playoffs playing in Oulu.. Watching this video brought back fun memories of my time there blessings to you and the beginning of your pro career bro

[@TuckerRichardson]

Wow thank you!

[@ktyanshorts4579]

I'm glad you made this video, because I have been considering oversees basketball as a career choice and this helped me see kind of what its like.

[@TuckerRichardson]

I'm glad to have helped!

[@Singularityv616]

I love how well he articulated his story and brought my imagination into it.

[@Singularityv616]

Come play in Taiwan!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!

[@DROHARM]

Well done sir! As a Joensuun Kataja fan I was so happy for you and for entire Nokia. Game seven was really something else.

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you, that series with Kataja was insane

[@fscottwoods]

Just happened to stumble upon this video. Happy to see a fellow Raider be successful in Europe. Congrats and all the best for year two. Make it to the Hamburg Towers in Germany and I will definitely come watch!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you! Go 'gate!

[@cokrlicix]

Nice video, you have a very positive look on things, and very healthy approach to basketball. And that's a winning combo. All the best man 👋from Serbia.

[@jameson6537]

Hey congrats man, extending out your career with a sport you love and maybe banking like 30k in a year is a huge win. Goodluck next season and with the rest of your career and journey!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you so much!

[@ronarmellino9769]

Great season Tucker!!! Nice seeing your growth as a player and a person. Whatever you do in the future I am sure it will be great!!! Best of luck in all your future endeavors!!!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you for all the support Ron!

[@nuuskawatti1397]

Congrats champ! I wish you long and healthy career. Welcome back to Finland any time!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!

[@the_kelvinator]

Money isn’t always everything, yes you need it to pay bills, etc, but you got to live one of your dreams playing professional basketball. I like how you mentioned the money last and all the life experiences first. Best of luck next season!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you, that was purposeful, because I agree with you!

[@stefanschneider3681]

I think that's what all experts now agree on: If you don't have enough money to cover your basic needs, more money makes quite a difference. As soon as you have enough for not having to worry every day about it other factors get much more important for a happy life.

[@supersam1914]

Wow Finland looks beautiful. I’m happy for you . Enjoy it and take it as far as you can .

[@TuckerRichardson]

It really is a beautiful country, thank you!

[@jeezdoedoe]

Living in Finland must feel very safe. I am happy for you mate, have fun!

[@dino7034]

My Friend from California played in Germany for 4 years. He said he learned more in those 4 years abroad then he could have in 15 living @home. Good luck to you for next year and congrats on the Chip. You earned pretty decent Money compared to what the (semi-)Pros earn out here in Germany. If i remember correctly he got around 1500€/Month for the second german League (ProA)

[@hfishball11258]

Saw this video in recommendation. Really glad to click in to watch this video.This help me know more about overseas basketball especially in Europe.Keep going 🔥🔥🔥🏀🏀🏀

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you, will do! Thanks for watching.

[@cvilla5631]

A friend in finland was watching that game where you hit that wild corner shot. He sent me that clip, that shot was crazy!! After I saw that I had to subscribe!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Let's go!!

[@scottweisel3640]

It sounds like you are very appreciative of the opportunity you have. Congratulations and savor every moment.

[@tompriceusmc]

I was in the military for years, and then began working with bands on the road, so I've basically spent my life traveling. Finland is one of my favorite countries on earth. So beautiful, clean, safe, and the people are fantastic. It's no surprise that it consistently ranks in the top five of the happiest countries on earth. (My personal top five countries would be Norway, New Zealand, Denmark, Slovenia, and Slovakia.) How awesome that you get to travel the world playing basketball!! I'm a basketball fanatic, but since there isn't much hope for a 6'1" center after high school, I had no chance of making a career out of it. LOL! Funny enough-- one of my idols was Adonal Foyle, one of the best shot-blockers ever, and he's a Colgate guy. Anyway, I'm subscribed now, and looking forward to following your journey.

[@erix1971]

Hey Tucker, Just discovered your channel - and I love it! Traditionally (strangely enough and I don’t know why) a lot of US players have moved from a first season in Finland to Germany for season two. The BBL would definitely be a step up. Wishing you all the best!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Yes, that is a very good point. The BBL is a really good league too so that would be a great option.

[@BRAINIAC4200]

GREAT VIDEO MAN!!!! Super interesting I hope this gets lots of views cuz this is something I’ve always been curious about

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!!

[@Kukkonaama13]

Ayyy, we are the champions! We wanna see you back in Nokia! 😎 You'll always be a hero in Nokia and forever a champion! We love you! The best of luck wherever you end up going next!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Nokia will always have a place in my heart!

[@srirams8052]

Congratulantions Tucker! Nice seeing Overseas basketball players getting on the hype train!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!!

[@thomaspierce5831]

This is so awesome and I appreciate the candid approach to telling your story. Congrats man!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!

[@aleksaa1747]

Couldn’t wait for this video. Congratulations to you and your team and maybe you should post some highlights or some game tape from the playoffs that we can learn from

[@TuckerRichardson]

Yeah for sure maybe do more of a breakdown...

[@AD3Basketball]

Congratulations on your and your teams accomplishments - and welcome back! I want to see you in a Lakers uniform!!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you! We will see!

[@omitn2011]

Any opportunity to experience life outside of home is worth taking. Congrats on the dope season!!!!

[@TuckerRichardson]

I agree, and thank you!

[@wariner13]

I wish you the best for the rest of your career!Finish league maybe is not the most famous championship in Europe but doing what you love and making a living out of it sounds awesome!Keep in mind that you have plenty of choices in Europe as there are many different countries and plenty of opportunities.Beside the national league that every team competes some have the opportunity to be part of FIBA Champions League,Euro cup and even the top level Euroleague.I hope you will learn more about european basketball and enjoy your time here!That being said from a Panathinaikos fan

[@kmb96]

That fade away from the corner to send it to OT was insane man, I think experiences like that plus a Cinderella rookie run make it all worth it in the end

[@TuckerRichardson]

Oh 100%!!!

[@Ana-fc7wj]

Awesome and eyes opening video, even i dont even follow basketball. All the best for you in future! Glad u enjoyed Finland!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!

[@coopershackleford]

Surely you come play in the NBL for 36ers next season 😂😂 In all seriousness man, congrats. Very impressive to do this well in your first season. Thanks for taking the time throughout the season to help us grow in our own games. You deserve all the success youve got so far and still deserve heaps more, hope you can get it. For future videos, something that i personally dont struggle with (i scored/assisted nearly all of my teams points in the 4th of our final) but some do is performing in the clutch. Maybe something about keeping calm and staying composed during those moments Wow thats a lot of stuff but thats what you get for not posting for a couple months Tuck 😂😂

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you for the comment, and the support through this whole journey so far. That is a great video idea, will definitely look into it! Sorry I've been away so long hahaha

[@switters3]

Best description of playing overseas I ever heard. Very well-spoken young man!

[@dan44zzt231]

Congrats on an anazing first pro season. Noticed Patrick Tape in the video, he played for one of my teams rivals in Britain his rookie year and was an absolute baller.

[@TuckerRichardson]

Oh very cool, yeah Pat was a beast for us this year!

[@Withtheghostoftomjoad]

you clearly had a great time. nice to see a Basketball player speak intelligently and enjoy the local culture.

[@bretzelpread]

this is so sick - good to see you pursuing ball after your college career. best of luck to you, and congrats champ!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!

[@TAHJ1987]

Shout bro..congratulations...just found your channel..keep up the good work...I'm too old now at 37 i think to still hoop..but I still like to keep up with the game..I had overseas dream..didnt quite make it..but had loads of fun..now I like to pass along to the next generation what I learned so they can...I must say 3k month for your 1st gig..is truly a blessing from God...man Tuck..most guys I know in Spain and Italy were getting like 500 euros and staying in bad/ unsafe with no wifi...sometimes wouldn't get paid at all...obviously lower divisions...so your one of the few guys I've seen make some good money..inspiring...will share your video with guys I know..prayers you continue to rise..prayers, blessings and overall health for you bro😎

[@TuckerRichardson]

Wow thank you for sharing. I do count myself extremely lucky, just the fact that I get to do the thing I love for my job!

[@muzed682]

Just stumbled upon your video. Was a great watch and i love the positive feedback in your comments, pretty rare these days 😊 enjoy your journey and i'd love to see u in the german league!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you for tuning in. Germany would definitely be a great option!

[@carlnash7200]

I was the Head Coach of a team in the CBA team in China for 3 years. I’m glad to see you had a good experience in Finland. I will be interested to see how things develop for you. Best of luck.

[@mrdavidsferrier]

The YT algorithm delivered! Great vid and congratulations. Good luck for yr2. Shout-out from Australia.

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!! I hope to play in Australia one day.

[@crispyboi7]

Great video, very interesting and informative. Gives a great realistic perspective on how it is to play pro in Europe, which is something I also want to achieve one day! Thanks for sharing this and being a great inspiration, keep up the good work brother 🙏

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thanks for watching! Get to work and achieve that goal!

[@william-uc2oy]

I’m much older but I had friends play all over the world. I thought it would be great. As you said most expenses are taken care of. If you’re smart bank as much as possible but still spend some for enjoyment. I feel the experience and the journey are worth. You travel and have new foods and another culture. Keep enjoying it and continued financial success.

[@TuckerRichardson]

It is definitely worth it.

[@NickAdrianRandall]

Love to see you pursue your dream. Great content that could inspire others to realize there is a path besides the NBA where skilled players can live out their dreams. Subbed.

[@TuckerRichardson]

Exactly! Thank you!

[@crbo1872]

You are definitely going to make it here in Europe, also thank you for being transparent bcs most of the guys who vlog their overseas career are discreet when it comes to money talks

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you! Just trying to provide that honesty haha

[@Beantown85]

Congrats brotha that’s Awesome. That’s good money honestly since u don’t have to pay for much and u get to ball for work! That’s awesome, enjoy it and congrats champ

[@ropsurr]

Thanks a lot for the past season Tucker

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you for the support!!

[@ropsurr]

@@TuckerRichardsonI am the guy who took a photo of you with a system camera at the supermarket a couple of weeks ago

[@coastalpaladin5024]

You have a great attitude and amazing demeanor. Please let us know where you are playing next season so we can cheer you on!!!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you, I will!

[@mcc3504]

late to this video but really enjoyed it, appreciate the honesty of how much you made as its always hard to get a straight answer about how much people are making playin overseas, best of luck in year 2!

[@Connor_Duncan]

6:39 is that Patrick Tape ex player for the Caledonia Gladiators

[@TuckerRichardson]

Yes it is!

[@MaciejSzlachtowicz-tk7in]

Awesome piece! Short, yet productive with lots of great information - have subscribed already:) congrats on the great season, fingers crossed you end up in a stronger league next season and wishing you an injury-free time there

[@TuckerRichardson]

Awesome, thank you!!

[@MrSheduur]

Sounds like you had a great time, wishing you all the best and that you get to play more years. Seen alot of us players that went overseas and then the first year was their only year they played as they did not pursue it with all their energy. Finnland is a good start, would love to see you in one of the german leagues next. German Pro-A or Pro-B might be a good fit seeing that you had a good time in Finnland. They have a good level of play and a bunch of talent but there is still quite a gap towards the big league where they play in Euroleague competition etc. So alot of room to grow from there.

[@Kftlsjanvr]

Love the honesty, it’s refreshing

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you, I try!

[@wheattt1]

Just found your channel man but I’m proud of what you’ve already accomplished, good stuff

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you, glad you found it!

[@unguardable-u9t]

I feel so good that i can see other basketball players living my future❤love from Georgia 🇬🇪🇬🇪🇬🇪🇬🇪🇬🇪🇬🇪

[@TuckerRichardson]

Could be you one day!

[@pyroslavia9499]

Congrats!! in Finland median income is only around 3000 euros per month. a lot less obviously after we pay taxes (highest taxes in the world) and rent etc.

[@TuckerRichardson]

That is a good way to put it in perspective.

[@-_-Code-_-]

Dude the life experience is priceless.. live that dream!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Exactly!

[@bernnyfelix7565]

This was a solid video. You brought some honesty to the table. Keep working on your craft. Maybe one day you make it to the NBA. It has happened before; it can happen again.

[@adinkovac8694]

This guy may play in the big leagues man, he is such an inspiration especially for us european guys.

[@TuckerRichardson]

Wow I appreciate that!

[@bobbob9627]

Any company should hire you after your basketball career, you are a great example for all of us, what’s important

[@mrsteve3527]

Great story! You'll have this experience for the rest of your life. I hope you do a 2nd year- you have a really nice deal with them!

[@justingil27]

Winning the Baseball Swiss championship and playing the the Eurocup in Croatia in 2019 was the best moment of my life. Haha I played a year before and after in Australia and now I'm a permanent resident lol playing overseas changed my life!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Wow, so you moved over to play baseball and ended up staying? That is very cool!

[@SP-nx8qx]

Good luck bro, you have the right mindset. Have fun!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you, I definitely will!

[@matains88]

You said it yourself - you get to play basketball, and that's the most important thing. Trying to make what you love doing financially sustainable is way more fulfilling than the other way around.

[@TuckerRichardson]

100%

[@Peterrajniakshooting]

Love the video, thanks for sharing and taking the time to do it. You will have a long and successful career in Europe!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!!

[@moistie]

I hope you're getting your BC Nokia jersey you wore in the Championship decider framed.

[@TuckerRichardson]

I definitely should!

[@quinnbat]

Good job love to have you Back!!!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!

[@MCFrutek]

Saw this video in recommendation and i really liked the whole video. Your sallary is not big for basketball player, but you got a very got sense for vlogging.

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!

[@nathandmccarthy]

Congrats Tucker. Been amazing following your journey

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you for the support!

[@ML-ud5pf]

That’s big time, wish you all the best of success, health and fun during your career! 💪🏼 Germany is also a great destination for pro basketball in Europe, besides the top destinations like Spain, Greece or Italy

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!! Would love to play in any of those places.

[@mattypurcell]

Congrats legend! You have a bright future ahead of you, goodluck

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!

[@thecoolguy1135]

this is incredible man congratulations on your new career, everybody watching and I are very proud! officially subscribed to your channel to follow your bball journey💯

[@TuckerRichardson]

Wow thank you for the support!!

[@wezhira2007]

glad I bumped into this channel. Congrats on the chip too!

[@stayonthecourt]

Oh man! When we talked on the podcast I thought you were talking Euros (but I also thought the exchange rate was better on the Euro side so it didn't make too much difference). Excellent video. Looking forward to more this summer. How about one on your off-season workouts or anything you are specifically working on for next year?

[@TuckerRichardson]

I think that is a great idea!

[@kiddiben7674]

Hell yeah, this is really interesting even though I dont play basketball. Also, it must be so great playing with infront of these fans!

[@TuckerRichardson]

It was so much fun, our fans were incredible all year!

[@tylertiedeman5312]

Great Video. I played in Finland in 2012 for Lappaerata vs Coach Gibson. Alo was on my team and a jr. He's looking for as a coach. Sauna everyday baby!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Oh wow! So you know all about it haha

[@triple84life]

Interesting video! Congrats on the chip, was rooting for you guys as the underdogs !!!🎉

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!!

[@LoversAnonymousMusic]

hell ya congrats!

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you!

[@ThePanchofar]

intelligent, eloquent, rational... rarely you connect those with pro athlete. you will go places man, keep on

[@TuckerRichardson]

Wow, thank you!

[@Rusu-j]

Great video! Great season! Great team! Congrats for the Championship! You guys really deserved it! Greetings from Kataja fan (it was the first seven games, one point series😄)

[@TuckerRichardson]

That was an incredible series. Still can't believe we won that game 7!

[@benjespina]

I attended a friend's wedding (at Vanajanlinna) in Finland and it seems like a great place to live if you have local contacts. We also went to a cabin by the beach for some R&R and sauna. Good times. :)

[@Richi-n2f]

Nice vid. It would be great if you uploaded this vids, especially the ones like “the uncomfortable truth for young basketball players”to a podcast format in spotify or smth like this to listen it anywhere. Cheers

[@TuckerRichardson]

Hmmm that is smart!

[@AbcMax12345]

Congratulations on the win and nice video. Like your new setup. Keep up the good work.

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thanks, I like the setup as well!

[@SannaLoukko]

Congrats! What a season! Pls.stay in Finland and maybe Karhubasket?😊

[@TuckerRichardson]

Who knows! Thank you!

[@danielalvarezperez8476]

Great story. I loved it. Basketball lenguage is spoken everywhere ❤

[@yuvrajsidhu4163]

Great video man. Hopefully I can get like you and a get contract for overseas next year as rookie. Congrats on your first season.

[@TuckerRichardson]

Thank you, good luck to you!

[@chadsmith3171]

It doesn't matter where you are or who you're with, really, when you're following a dream. You'll probably look back one day on your time spent in Finland as one of the best times of your life. Enjoy.

[@TuckerRichardson]

100% true. Thank you.