Isaiah Thomas wants to play in Europe for a year: 'I want to humiliate those guys'

The interchange of players between the NBA and EuroLeague has become increasingly common. When Patrick Beverley recently said that "there are NBA superstars who couldn't play in Europe right now," it sparked a strong response from veteran guard Isaiah Thomas. On X, Thomas wrote: "I want to play overseas for a year! I want that experience! And humiliate those guys!" Thomas, now 37, is a reminder of what once was. In 2026-17, he averaged 28.9 points per game for the Boston Celtics and was an MVP candidate. But injuries and trades turned him into a journeyman. After brief stints with the Lakers, Nuggets, Wizards, Pelicans and Mavericks, he spent time with the SLC Stars in the G League in the 2026-25 season. When Thomas says he wants to go to Europe and humiliate his doubters, it's not just about Beverley. It's about a league that moved past him. Yet Europe is not a sanctuary for any NBA veteran. Different rules, a team-oriented style, and a high basketball IQ are required. Players like Shane Larkin and Mike James found stardom there after leaving the NBA, but others like Kemba Walker struggled mightily. However, at 37 and with a body full of injuries, signing with a EuroLeague powerhouse is unrealistic. Mid-tier European leagues might offer opportunities, but with diminished roles and pay. Still, Thomas's passion illustrates a larger truth about aging athletes: the desire to reclaim glory doesn't fade easily. Even if he never plays abroad, his statement adds a poetic footnote to a once-brilliant career.