Catching up with ProCanes: Julian Gamble
Julian Gamble
Telekom Baskets Bonn, Germany
What do you miss most about Miami basketball?
The thing I miss the most is spending time with my teammates: All of the laughs, jokes, traveling, practices and games. Those experiences were priceless to me over my years in Miami.
Who do you still keep in contact with from The U?
I keep in contact with A LOT of guys still. The list is long, but I regularly talk to guys that I played with from 2007 all the way to 2013, including guys that are still in school now. We truly have a brotherhood that now extends across the globe.
How has your life changed since going pro?
The biggest change is now being the leader of a family of my own. Living here in Germany with my wife and son, who is almost a year old, has been an amazing experience and growth process for us all. Other than that, life has been much more simple in just taking things a day at a time. It is a very long season and you have to stay even keeled to keep yourself mentally focused for such a long time, but having my family here helps tremendously.
What was the first thing you bought after receiving your first paycheck?
I was in France, so I bought some Louis Vuitton bags that I wanted.
What is your pregame meal like?
Pregame meal depends on if I am at home or on the road. It also depends on if my wife is around or not (laughs). It could be spaghetti, chicken or some peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. For the record, I am a great cook but don’t always feel like cooking.
Are there any veterans that have helped you along?
There have been plenty of veterans over the past four years that have helped me grow into a better person and player. The most influential guys have been Jared Newson, Jason Forte and Guy Muya, all of whom I still keep in contact with today.
What is the difference between overseas ball and ACC basketball?
Here in Germany, the difference isn’t glaring. Basketball is huge here, the fan support is amazing, all games are televised and everybody speaks English. I guess if I had to point out something, I would say the rule changes between the ACC and European basketball. After you adjust to that, the difference lies in the level of competition.
What is the adjustment like living in another country?
The biggest adjustment is getting over the language barrier, also assimilating yourself amongst a culture that is not your own. Once you are past that, it’s all about routine and the willingness to explore the unknown.
What are some things that Coach L taught you that have helped you in your professional career?
Coach L taught me to always be ready when your opportunity comes. Every game may not call for you to score big numbers or even have a huge stat line, but every night you are on the floor, you can make winning plays. If you are defined by only one part of the game, you are missing out on helping the team on a night where you aren’t playing your best basketball. Be ready when your number is called.
What did your time at Miami teach you?
My time at Miami definitely taught me to persevere. I was there for six years and I went through a lot with injuries, playing time and a coaching change. Continuing to work despite the circumstances is what eventually allowed me to enjoy success. My career is a ladder, and as I continue to work, I will continue to climb, no matter the circumstance. I will never forget where I came from in the mean time!
