CHENNAI: The Bhullars migrated from Amritsar to the Americas 33 years ago. Little did Avtar Bhullar and wife Varinder know that this move could script the beginning for something historic. Their elder son Gursimran or Sim Bhullar became the first Indian-born player to be part of NBA. The 21-year-old achieved this feat when he was selected to play for the Sacramento Kings, a day after the NBA draft.
“It was a dream come true for me the day I got the call to join the Sacramento Kings summer league team,” he said. “My family has been my main support system throughout my career, they have always encouraged me to take up the sport professionally and make a career out of it.”
At 7 feet 5 inches, he is one of the tallest in the circuit. “Being 7ft tall can have its own pros and cons – one of the challenges is getting shoes and clothes that fit me! I have to get custom-made shoes. On the other hand, being tall does help in playing basketball,” he added. In fact, his mother had to make adjustments in the house – making the door eight-feet tall and elevating the roof!
He may be a Canadian by citizenship, but Sim remains an Indian (read Punjabi) at heart. “I am in touch with my Punjabi roots, I go to the Gurudwara often and speak in Punjabi at home. Since my childhood, I have been instilled with Indian values. India is close to my heart and I am definitely hoping to visit the country soon to work with young players and do what I can to help grow the game,” he said.
Playing at the highest level is never easy but Sim is doing his best to up his game to match the NBA standard. “I am working hard to improve my conditioning and the offensive part of my game. I am looking forward to being a part of the Kings and I hope I can prove my worth for the club. It has been an amazing experience already going up against great players such as DeMarcus Cousins. It is a blessing to be in this situation,” he sighed.
“One of my role models and inspirations growing up was NBA star Vince Carter. I watched a lot of his games when he was with the Toronto Raptors. He motivated me to play in the NBA someday. It has been an amazing journey so far and I want to thank Kings’ owner Vivek Ranadive for providing me this opportunity,” he added.
When asked if he would consider playing in a professional league in India in future, Sim said that he would definitely consider the option. As for the budding stars, he said, “Stay focused and keep trying. There will be lot of problems but you will be rewarded for the work you have put in,” he signed off.