Tom’s Journey from a PBIS Dragon to a College Basketball Player in the USA

Early Memories at PBIS.

You have spent nearly your whole life at PBIS. What do you remember from those early years?

“Vlastina was always a smaller school, and I remember the nursery mostly from playing games with my friends. It was a small, close community. That is a good memory.”

Discovering Basketball

When did basketball first enter your life and what initially drew you to it?

“I started playing basketball in Year 7 when I was 12 years old. I was also still professionally skiing. I think I found passion from watching basketball superstars on TV.”

You balanced skiing and basketball for a long time. What made you ultimately choose basketball?

“Skiing became repetitive and then I had a bad injury that caused a serious injury. That was the moment I quit skiing for good and decided to focus on basketball.”

Once you committed to basketball, how did your journey progress?

“In Year 7, I began watching basketball properly and playing outside every day. I played for the school team and trained at Vlastina under Mr Hayes. In Year 9, I joined the Coach Benčič Academy where I trained with players from the highest league in the Czech Republic. At the end of Year 11, I transferred to Sokol Vyšehrad where I still play now.”

At what point did the sport become something more serious for you?

“In Year 8. That was when I realised that success needs receptiveness. I had to let go of my ego and take feedback from older and more experienced players.”

Did you have anyone you looked up to in the basketball world?

“Steph Curry was always a big hero for me since I was a small kid.”

Shaped by Sport

Looking back at your long journey at PBIS, which experiences shaped you the most as a student and an athlete?

“Basketball shaped who I am. It taught me that showing up does not mean you are fully ready, it means you are willing. Willing to make mistakes, acknowledge them and keep going. That connects to being a student too. You face setbacks, but you stay resilient and keep moving forward.”

Support from PBIS

Throughout this journey, what part did your school environment play in supporting your growth?

“I felt supported every day, especially as I worked toward playing college basketball in the United States. Some teachers gave their own time to supervise us in the basketball gym. The school also built an outdoor court for younger athletes. Those things helped me stay committed.”

Leadership and Impact

Out of everything you have been involved in, which achievement makes you proudest?

“Rebuilding the basketball culture at PBIS and inspiring younger athletes. I run training sessions during break times for anyone from any year group. I coach Under 11 matches. Even helping to get the outdoor court built. Supporting the community makes me proud.”

What drives you to keep pushing yourself in basketball and beyond?

“My motivation comes from wanting to reach the next level, especially college basketball. When I moved from Vlastina to Libuš in Year 10, the competition was tougher. I had to adapt and push myself until I was better than everyone else.”

Through the highs and lows, what have you learned about yourself as an athlete?

“Basketball taught me to be humble. In Years 8, 9 and 10, I was scared to mess up. One bad game can take away your confidence. It is a roller coaster. You have to trust the process.”

Do the qualities needed in the classroom overlap with those needed on the court?

“Yes. Teachers and coaches trust you to perform. You have to be someone others can follow. Whether you are answering questions in class or leading on the court, you need to set an example.”

Eyes on the Next Level

What goals do you hope basketball will lead you toward?

“Basketball opened doors for me in every part of my life. It is taking me to study and play in the United States. My dream is to earn real recognition for playing basketball internationally. I do not know exactly what the future holds, so I trust the process.”

One piece of advice for younger students about following their passion?

“Sports open many doors. Friendships, mindset and opportunities. I live by Mr Becker’s saying that basketball is a good habit, and we should keep good habits in our lives.”