Interview by: Jerome Fitts

It is essential to recognise that as opportunities continued to present themselves—and perhaps more accurately, opportunities that Eugene Campbell created for himself—the player increasingly explored his potential. The clarity of his vision for the future remained consistent.

Even after playing for his third professional team, Campbell remained humble about his status while also acknowledging the reality that he needed to prepare for the possibility that his dream of playing professional basketball might come to an end.

In the second quarter of the millennium, the public’s primary question often revolves around salary, frequently overlooking experience. Campbell has nothing but positive remarks about the basketball clubs he encountered and the relationships he built during that time. “I still keep in touch with most of my brothers from those teams, and even if I’m not in constant contact, I know how to reach those I have less frequent communication with. The blessing of playing and learning about different cultures is invaluable.”

Perhaps his experiences were shaped by his role as an assistant coach before embarking on a professional playing career, as well as the basketball legacy that runs through his family. It’s clear that his upbringing, guided by his mother’s moral compass and the family’s resilience in the face of adversity, has had a significant impact on him. “I was always told to work hard, as the eternal reward surpasses the obstacles I may encounter in life,” Campbell continues.

The rewards and dividends of perseverance in pursuing something he loved began to materialise when contract offers from other North African countries, such as Tunisia, started coming in. “The money was definitely more appealing, as the experience in Tunisia highlighted my value. It was the first time I was approached by clubs instead of having to seek them out for opportunities.”

It is unusual for a player to openly discuss their journey without eliciting pity. This refers to the non-charitable organisation, the Eugene “Walk A Mile In Our Shoes” Foundation, which was established well before the basketball journey began. The foundation is now in its seventh year and serves as a mandatory year-round community project.

The commitment to playing professionally while remaining grounded in his local community is a testament to why basketball clubs are willing to offer contracts to well-rounded players.

The story continues in part 3.

Photos Used By Kind Permission. Eugene Campbell All Rights Reserved. 2026