Can you tell us about your basketball journey, from your first steps to where you are today?
My name is Anthony Sevilla, I’m 29 years old, Belgian with Puerto Rican roots. I started playing basketball at the age of 10, but it wasn’t until I was 13 that I began playing in a club, at the youth level in Belgium. That’s when I officially joined a club. A few years later, I went to the United States for a year of high school in New York State. I was enrolled in a combined study-and-sports program. I didn’t get much playing time there, but it was an incredibly formative experience for me. After my time in the U.S., I returned to Belgium and played for several clubs in the 6th and 7th divisions. At one point, I realized I needed to see something different and step out of my comfort zone. That’s when I had the opportunity to go to Indonesia and play for the Jakarta team. I got recruited for a season after participating in some trials I found through a Facebook forum. I played there for three months, but the experience taught me a lot, far beyond basketball itself. It allowed me to immerse myself in a completely different culture, cuisine, and lifestyle. However, being out of my comfort zone for the first time was challenging, and I didn’t stay long.
I decided to return to Belgium. Later, I had the chance to move to Portugal and play in Division 3, which was an experience I had always wanted to try, partly to discover the country and its basketball culture. After that adventure, I returned to Belgium, and now I’m playing in Spain. Each step has impacted my career and perspective on basketball. Every new destination has helped me grow, both as a player and as an individual.
You’ve played in countries like Portugal, Indonesia, and Spain. What motivated you to pursue an international career?
It’s really my love for basketball and my desire to take on new challenges that drove me to play abroad. At that time in Belgium, I felt my career wasn’t progressing much. I decided to leave to improve individually and explore what was out there. Indonesia was an opportunity to push myself, not only in sports but also personally. I learned so much beyond basketball—about the cuisine and the culture. At the same time, I realized that basketball could take me places. And once you start traveling, it’s like tattoos—you just can’t stop!
Which moments in your career have shaped you and helped you grow as a player?
Playing in Portugal was, at the time, the highest level I had experienced. The environment was very different: the focus on nutrition and the intensity of training sessions were much higher, with practices both in the morning and evening. It was mentally challenging at first. In the U.S., practices were intense but less frequent. In Portugal, you’re playing with adults, as opposed to high school, where you mostly play with peers. You learn from veterans, face adult players, and have to overcome language barriers.
Another defining moment was in Belgium with one of my strictest coaches. Even though the level was lower, that coach helped me adjust my game through constructive criticism. I really appreciate critiques that push me to improve.
Is there a particular player who inspires your game?
I started following basketball and became a big fan of Carmelo Anthony. Even though I don’t play the same position as him, I was truly inspired by his game. Even as a smaller player (1.80m), I’ve always worked hard to improve and give my all on the court. Later, I found great inspiration in Russell Westbrook. He’s the reason I wear number 0, which I still wear today. Currently, I admire Anthony Edwards a lot. His role is fundamental to his team, and that inspires me greatly. In basketball, I try to pick elements from different players’ games. For example, I’ve incorporated Tony Parker’s push cross and Derrick Rose’s floaters into my game. I believe you should always learn from the best and try to emulate them to enhance your own game. Even my coaches have often encouraged me to study other players’ games to keep progressing!
Is there a coach who has significantly influenced your career and playing style?
Yes, there are several coaches who have left their mark on me. Phil Jackson, for instance, has been a huge inspiration, especially for his mental approach and team management. I really admire his philosophy of the game. In FIBA, Vincent Collet is another major influence. I have a lot of respect for European basketball, which is more team-oriented and emphasizes collaboration. In the NBA, I look up to Gregg Popovich. These three coaches have had a major impact on how I see basketball.
You also play 3x3, which is a bit different. What do you enjoy about this format compared to traditional basketball?
3×3 is very different from traditional basketball, but it has brought me a lot. I started in 2014 during the offseason without any specific training—just to stay in shape. Gradually, we began taking it more seriously. By 2017, we started winning some titles, which motivated us even more. 3×3 helped me progress quickly because of its fast pace and freestyle nature. There’s no coach constantly guiding you, so you really have to rely on your instincts. What I love about it is the freedom and speed. Unlike traditional basketball, where you often follow the coach’s directives, in 3×3, you make your own decisions on the court, which fosters creativity. In 3×3, there are also more opportunities to win titles. For example, we reached the finals of a European tournament in Luxembourg. Moments like these are incredibly exciting because you face national teams and play at a high level.
Your Sportiw profile is almost 100% complete! What advice would you give players to optimize their profiles and attract clubs?
Sportiw is a fantastic platform for players. It allows you to present yourself as a brand, which requires some marketing skills. My main advice would be to know how to sell yourself. It’s not enough to be a good player; you need to put yourself out there: share videos, highlight your journey, and showcase your stats. Many talented players hesitate to upload highlights or create reels, but that’s often the first impression coaches and agents get of you.
What are your future goals? What type of teams are you looking for?
I’m very flexible—that’s my strength. I can play anywhere that wants me. I don’t have a specific preference for the level, as long as it’s respectable. I have no limits or strict salary demands; I’m ready to go anywhere in the world.
For young players: what advice would you give them?
Mentality is key. Opportunities only come once, so you must be ready to seize them. But more importantly, you need to love basketball more than anything, be aware of the sacrifices it requires, and stay focused.
Finally, I encourage young players to seek advice and surround themselves with experienced people. Talking to older players and learning from them is crucial for growth. And above all, never settle—always strive to go higher.
Thank you, Anthony, for this interview.
We wish you all the best in your sports career and future projects.
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