In this episode of Passport to the Pros, we dive into the realities of playing professional basketball abroad. From navigating contracts and visas to adjusting to new cultures, styles of play, and expectations, this conversation breaks down what the overseas path really looks like.

Michael Shagoury is joined by Hozaifa “Zee” Almaleh and Chad Hendrick, two players who have lived the international basketball experience firsthand. Together, they discuss who playing abroad is actually for, how players find opportunities, what kind of money can realistically be made, and the biggest mistakes athletes make early in their overseas careers.

The episode also explores how international basketball can serve as a development pathway, not just a fallback, and why some players and coaches used overseas experience to reach the NBA. The conversation wraps with a fast-paced game challenging the hosts to guess which NBA players and coaches played or coached abroad before making it to the league.

This episode is essential listening for high school, college, and international players considering professional basketball beyond the NBA.

Episode 7 marks a new chapter for Passport to the Pros as Z welcomes a new member into the podcast family: journalist and SideKix Media founder Michael Shagoury. 

The conversation kicks off with a recap of a playoff-feel NBA Cup Final, breaking down momentum swings, bench impact, and why the Cup is becoming a real statement-maker early in the season. Z also shares behind-the-scenes perspective on the business of the league—what prize money like $500K actually means for players once taxes, fees, and support systems are accounted for—and why incentives could be the key to revitalizing events like All-Star Weekend.

From there, the episode goes deeper: the rise of international talent, the development gap between academy systems overseas and AAU culture in the U.S., and why younger coaches and front-office leaders are becoming the new norm. The duo also explores what makes franchises like the Spurs a blueprint organization—and whether the NBA is entering a new era led by homegrown young contenders like OKC and San Antonio.

To close, the show introduces a fan Q&A segment, starting with a question many players wrestle with: How do you know if you’re good enough to go pro? The answer is honest, nuanced, and full of perspective—highlighting niche skill development, mindset, and the real opportunities that exist beyond the NBA, including international pro leagues.

Plus: Z previews upcoming 2026 guests including Craig Hodges and Kevin Grevey, and teases future episodes focused on the many careers that power the game—from scouts and trainers to cap experts and media professionals.

If you love basketball and want a clearer blueprint for the road ahead, Episode 7 is where the podcast levels up.

Episode 6 – Ryan Holmes Sr.: Global Hoops, Mental Strength, and Giving Back

In this inspiring episode of Passport to the Pros, Ryan Holmes Sr. takes us from his roots in Chicago Heights, Illinois, to the international basketball stage around the world. A proud graduate of Philander Smith University, Ryan shares how his journey through overseas leagues tested his adaptability, mindset, and perseverance.

Now, as the founder of the non-profit “One Thumbs Up”, created in memory of his sister, Ryan continues to make an impact—using his platform to uplift others both on and off the court.

Reflecting on his career and personal growth, Ryan offers powerful lessons on mental toughness and self-belief: “Everything starts in the mind. You can't have more than what you think of yourself.” and about adapting to global competition: “From region to region, the game changes... Once you figure it out and you understand it, you can apply it to every country.”

Damond Williams: Chicago Grit, Global Game, and Giving Back

In this episode of Passport to the Pros, we sit down with Damond Williams, a Chicago native whose basketball journey spans from the blacktops of his hometown to the NCAA Tournament — and beyond. Damond reflects on his path through New Mexico State, Memphis, and McNeese State, where his hard work and resilience earned him a shot at March Madness.

After his playing career, Damond founded the Chicago Basketball Academy, a program dedicated to developing athletes both on and off the court. He also shares stories from his unforgettable matchups with Michael Jordan, offering insight into what it takes to compete at the highest level.

“Nothing is easy, nothing is overnight and if you're gifted, you still got to work.”

“The game of basketball is system based, especially on the professional level. So once I got used to the system... I always had this versatile approach to do what was needed to win.”

Episode 4 – Tony “The Tiger” Thompson: Fighting for the Heavyweight Title and Beyond

In this episode of Passport to the Pros, we step into the ring with Tony “The Tiger” Thompson, the heavyweight boxer who rose from his upbringing in Washington, D.C. to fight for the Heavyweight Championship of the World — twice. Tony reflects on how boxing became more than a career; it became a passport that took him around the globe.

“To me that was the biggest take from boxing. It wasn’t the money. It wasn’t the prizes. It was the places I was able to go.” With honesty and grit, Tony shares the highs and lows of his journey, from chasing titles to inspiring the next generation. His advice for young people is simple but powerful: “Believe. Never give up on yourself.”

Episode 3 – Chris Charles: From Villanova to Becoming an ABL All-Time Great

In this episode of Passport to the Pros, professional basketball star Chris Charles shares his journey from growing up in Milwaukee to competing at Villanova University and eventually playing professionally around the world. Chris dives into his international experiences in Syria, Thailand, and beyond, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs that shaped his career.

One of the highlights of his journey? Being named to the ASEAN Basketball League’s Top 10 Players of All Time — a testament to his dedication and resilience. Chris offers valuable perspective on navigating adversity: “There are going to be plenty of ups and downs [in your career] and while you’re in those ups and downs, it’s tough to think about how it’s going to pan out… in the moment, it may seem like a disaster, but that’s building character.”

From the University of Houston to professional basketball courts in Italy, Jordan, Qatar, and Syria — Chad Hendrick has seen it all.

In this episode of Passport to the Pros, Chad opens up about the mindset that fueled his success, the lessons he learned playing overseas, and what it’s like watching his son chase his own basketball dreams.

“My belief in my abilities had to come from within. I didn’t let my trials and tribulations deter me.”

“There’s one thing that every human on Earth does not have a limitation to… how hard they work on something.”

From the streets of Damascus to the doorstep of the NBA 🏀 — Hozaifa Almaleh’s journey is one you won’t forget.

In our debut episode of Passport to the Pros, Hozaifa not only shares his inspiring basketball story, but also opens up about why we started this podcast and what we hope you take away from it — stories that prove dreams have no borders.

“When I first stepped on the court in America, I wasn’t just representing myself — I was representing every kid who thought their dream was impossible.”

From the grind to the culture shocks, and the moments that shaped his career, this is the conversation that sets the tone for everything to come.