(Maryville, Missouri) Ryan Hawkins ‘storied Basketball Career Continues
The former Atlantic High School standout starred at Northwest Missouri State University, where he was part of a team that won three Division II National titles. He helped lead Creighton to the round of 32 in the NCAA Tournament. That same year, he was selected to the second team All-Big East. From there, Ryan signed on to play professionally with the Toronto Raptors and played on the G-League squad.
Ryan Hawkins’ professional basketball journey is now taking him to opportunities in Italy and France as he considers offers for his fourth professional season. Hawkins recently wrapped up his third professional season with La Rochelle, located along the southwest coast of France.
He finished the year on a high note, shooting 40 percent from beyond the arc.
Hawkins also shared his thoughts on how European professional leagues compare to the NBA.
Ryan says the European Professional Basketball League requires more of a mental approach.
Hawkins last year, he felt like he rushed signing a contract in France, and admitted he did not do enough homework. This season, Ryan is also attempting to position himself to play in more international competitions. Hawkins is looking at playing at Lisbon, Portugal, Spain, or Italy.
Wherever he signs next, Hawkins says he’s excited to keep playing the game he loves — especially in a system that aligns with his style and philosophy of how basketball should be played. The Professional basketball season starts up again next month. In the meantime, Ryan has purchased a home in Maryville, Missouri, where he currently resides between seasons.
