Episode 497: Nik Caner-Medley, Former Pro & Current Entrepreneur

Sports Business Secrets

Today’s guest is Nik Caner-Medley, former professional basketball player who is embracing the new chapter in his life as an entrepreneur!

Arguably one of the best prospects to ever come from Maine, Nik took home many awards, including being named the Gatorade Player of the Year in 2002 after averaging 36.5 points during his senior season.He went on to play 4 years at Maryland, finishing as one of five players ever to tally over 1500pts, 500 rebounds, 200 assists, 100 steals, 100 3’s & 50 blocked shots.

Nik went undrafted in the 2006 NBA draft and eventually signed with the Detroit Pistons as a free agent. After an injury before his rookie season started he had the opportunity to help a team in Germany make a playoff push in 2007. Despite his hesitation, he went for it and it became the true start to his historically successful career abroad.

And that’s just a small piece of his background. I'm just as excited to share with you who Nik is OFF the court and what he's been up to since retirement.

Today we also talked about:

• growing up in Maine
• his routine and work ethic playing hoops as a kid
• when he realized that he could play at the next level
• his AAU opportunity from the Pump Brothers
• the chip on his shoulder from being unranked
• the college recruiting process and why he chose Maryland
• winning an ACC Championship in 2006
• signing with the Pistons after going undrafted
• his mindset when he found out he was going to Germany
• differences between USA and European playing styles
• advice for players who aspire to play at the pro level
• his transition into retirement
• and much more!

Appreciate you tuning in. Hope you enjoy!