The game of basketball has spread like wildfire around the world, with more and more international talent at every level.
At ARHS, international talent from every corner of the world convenes to create a prestigious basketball program.
For many young players outside of the US, America is the place to be in order to make their basketball dreams come true.
The ARHS boys Varsity basketball team has several international players: Djordje Curcic ’24 from Serbia, Andrew Hilman ’26 from Cameroon, Kaia Berridge ’24 from New Zealand, Nathan Tshamala ’24 from the Congo, and Nes Emeneke ’25 from Cameroon.
The girls Varsity basketball team has three international players: Lyric Berridge ’25 from New Zealand, Maxine Sustina ’25 from Indonesia, and Jimena Cachon ’26 from Spain.
Head boys coach Joey Curtin ’01 stated, “A lot of people reach out about coming to Riordan.”
ARHS has constantly been one of the top teams in the state. They have a decorated history, with many trophies to show for it.
As of press time, the Varsity boys basketball team has an overall record of 20-4 and an undefeated record of 14-0 in the WCAL (West Catholic Athletic League).
The Varsity girls basketball team has a overall record of 15-8 and a 7-5 record in the WCAL.
Curtin added, “After a while, you build a reputation.”
The emotions these young men and women feel cannot be fathomed by most people. Leaving their families and being separated from their loved ones by whole oceans are feelings that can only be relatable by fellow teammates from abroad. But the players say they’ve had people that helped make it easier for them.
Guard Hilman said, “They [the coaches and players] are always there when I need something. I feel like I got my family here. I feel protected.”
Not only do these players get a chance to thrive on the court, but off it as well.
Kaia Berridge ’24 said, “It felt like home.”
Jimena Cachon ’26 said, “Being away from home is always scary, new can be scary, but in some way basketball is the one thing that has made things easier and more comfortable, as it helped me not be a complete stranger.”
She continued saying, “It’s what has given me this great opportunity, and helped me integrate myself in this new community. I’m extremely thankful.”
Many who play basketball overseas sacrifice so much for a chance to fulfill their dreams of playing the sport.
Curtin said, “It’s actually a beautiful thing…. They leave their families as teenagers, some of them from the poorest countries in the world, and sacrificing so much to fulfill their dream.”
