Ikhlas Makhremov on His Move to the United States: A New Beginning

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I was born in Turkmenistan, but I spent my entire conscious life in Russia.
That’s where I grew up, finished 9 grades of school, received my diploma, and enrolled in an architectural college on a state-funded program.

At that point, my life looked stable and clear.

Basketball had always been a huge part of my life, but one day my parents asked me a simple and honest question:

“How can we really help you with your basketball career?”

My answer was clear: moving to the United States.

I knew this step could become a turning point in my development as a player.

Things started moving fast after that.
I flew to Serbia to apply for my U.S. visa. Before that, I trained in Russia with my coach Nick, and later continued my preparation in Serbia with coach Struga. That stage was important for me both physically and mentally.

I arrived in the USA later than most of the other players.

On my first day at school, I barely talked to anyone. I felt closed off, unsure of myself, and my English wasn’t good. You suddenly find yourself in a completely new environment where everyone already knows each other — and you’re alone.

My first practice was a real shock.

The coaching approach was completely different from what I was used to in Russia.
Players were loud, aggressive, diving for loose balls, talking constantly on defense, shooting with confidence. Everyone was intense. Everyone competed.

At that moment, I felt lost.
I didn’t fully understand what was happening — or what was expected of me.

But that was just the beginning.