23 year old Toronto, Ontario native Milan Aćimović who studied law at Algoma University and now is playing for the KK Leotar, a men’s professional basketball club based in Trebinje, Republika Srpska. Milan played two years in Sault Ste Marie with the OUA Algoma Thunderbirds from 2017 – 2019 before heading overseas to continue his dream of playing basketball at the next level.
We discover more about playing basketball overseas after sitting down discussing Milan Aćimović playing in Trebinje, Republika Srpska.
When did you start playing basketball?
I started playing basketball when I was nine years old.
How was your experience at Algoma University with the Thunderbirds, did you receive interest from teams after university?
My experience at Algoma University with the Thunderbirds was amazing as I had the opportunity to focus on basketball, school, and meet many great people during the process. I really appreciated the location, facilities, size, and faculty at Algoma University and felt it was a very unique and effective place to grow as a student athlete.
What made you decide to play overseas?
From the moment I started playing basketball at the age of nine, I’ve dreamed about playing professional basketball.
How has your experience been in Trebinje, Republika Srpska?
Trebinje is such an amazing city and region it is indescribable, you just have to come and experience it firsthand. The people, culture, nature, and lifestyle make it a very special city.
Do you believe your career would have been the same if it were not for your experience in the program and the advice that was given by the staff?
I would not be in this position without my teammates and coaches. My time at Algoma University helped me face new challenges and grow as a player. My coaches were all very passionate about the game and helped me better understand team defence and offence principles while pushing me to grow as a player. I want to thank coach Thomas Cory, Ryan Vertie, Etienne Jacquet, and the entire Thunderbird & GLC staff.
Have you learned the language (what language is it) during your time in Serbia?
Fortunately, I can speak Serbian fluently there are just different dialects depending on the specific region.
Do you have an opportunity to work with kids in your club or town?
Yes, Leotar is very committed to working with kids in the club and town. I have the opportunity to support them by coaching, training, and donating to children and youth.
What do you think are the main differences between university basketball and European basketball?
The main difference in the game is the increased strength, skill, ball IQ, and experience of the players in Europe. The players here are generally much more experienced and older which plays a big part in their game.
What are your future goals?
I want to play professional basketball for some time and invest in business, real estate, and have a big healthy family.
What are your keys to being successful playing basketball overseas?
Utilize my strengths and get the job done every single game.
What advice can you give to players interested in being basketball overseas?
Stay focused, work hard, and always believe and invest in yourself. Don’t be afraid to take risks or fail.
Do you have any worries about playing basketball in the midst of a pandemic or do you try not to think about it too much because it’s sort of out of your control?
Personally, I don’t have any worries for myself. I just keep my distance from those who are vulnerable or high risk.
How are the players on the team and the rest of the league dealing with this pandemic with player safety in mind?
They have been handling it responsibly through frequent testing and following other health protocols.
