Langston Galloway’s Journey: From NBA to USA Olympics Practice Star

A Memorable Journey: Langston Galloway’s Experience with USA Basketball

Langston Galloway, a seasoned NBA guard, is concluding an extraordinary chapter of his career as a practice player for the USA Men’s National Basketball Team. This adventure, which culminates tonight in London, has offered him experiences that will resonate for a lifetime. From playing in exhibition games wearing the USA jersey to shaking hands with renowned figures like Vice President Kamala Harris and Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, Galloway’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

Reflecting on his participation, Galloway expressed immense gratitude for the opportunities that came his way. “I’m truly thankful. I’m truly thankful for everything that has been coming my way. I put myself in the right place at the right time,” he told Andscape in a phone interview from Abu Dhabi.

Langston Galloway’s NBA and International Career

Galloway’s NBA career spanned over 452 regular-season games, where he played as a reserve for teams such as the New York Knicks, New Orleans Pelicans, Sacramento Kings, Detroit Pistons, Phoenix Suns, Brooklyn Nets, and Milwaukee Bucks between 2014 and 2022. Following a stint in the NBA G League, the Baton Rouge native ventured overseas, playing in Lithuania for Rytas Vilnius and in Italy for Pallacanestro Reggiana last season.

His association with USA Basketball is not new. Galloway has previously represented the team in FIBA World Cup qualifying matches in 2022 and 2023 and has been a part of the Select Team. Recently, he was named a member of the 2024 USA Select Team, which trained alongside the USA Men’s National Team during training camp. Along with Micah Potter and Nigel Hayes-Davis, Galloway accepted an invitation to serve as a practice player for the senior men’s national team during exhibitions in Las Vegas, Abu Dhabi, and London in preparation for the Paris Olympics.

The Role of Practice Players in USA Basketball

The role of a practice player is crucial for the preparation of the senior team. Galloway, Potter, and Hayes-Davis were responsible for participating in practices, workouts, and even exhibition games as needed, ensuring that the main team was well-prepared for the Olympics.

Grant Hill, the managing director of USA Basketball, praised Galloway’s contributions, stating, “Langston has been great. He was with us last year during our World Cup run as well. He really understands the FIBA game, having played professionally in Europe and being a member of our World Cup qualifying teams. He, Micah, and Nigel play an important role in our overall preparation for Paris.”

Sean Ford, head of men’s programming for USA Basketball, also acknowledged Galloway’s dedication. “Langston’s commitment and contribution to USA Basketball has been incredible. No player had a bigger impact on getting us qualified for the World Cup than him, playing in five windows in a row and leading us to an 8-2 record. Langston, Nigel, and Micah have all contributed to a successful training camp.”

Becoming a Practice Player for the USA Men’s National Team

When asked about the process of becoming a practice player for USA Basketball’s senior men’s national team, Galloway shared his journey. “During this past season with Italy, I received a text from Sean Ford around April 15. He asked if I would be interested in helping the team this summer. After discussing it with my wife, I decided to join.”

Galloway’s role was to be a fill-in player during practices, stepping in whenever a regular player needed a break. This opportunity allowed him to stay connected with the game and showcase his skills. “It’s all about being in the right place at the right time. Maybe it’s a full-circle moment, and I’ll be able to get back in the league at some point,” he remarked.

Reactions from Family, Friends, and Fellow Players

The reaction to Galloway’s involvement with the USA Basketball team has been overwhelmingly positive. “It’s been a lot of love over these past couple of days,” he said. “Just being able to get in there and show that I’ve still got it has been a special moment.”

Galloway also cherished the camaraderie and respect he received from his peers. “To be welcomed means the world to me because that means that I was respected when I played in the league. I’m respected by my peers. So that’s a good thing.”

Memorable Encounters and Experiences

One of the highlights of Galloway’s journey was meeting Vice President Kamala Harris. “That was a special moment. Meeting her in person while wearing the USA jersey was truly special,” he shared. Galloway also enjoyed the unique experiences on the court, such as interacting with top-tier players and wearing his vegan signature shoes, Ethics The Brand.

Ethics The Brand: Galloway’s Vegan Basketball Sneaker

Galloway’s passion for veganism extends beyond his diet to his footwear. He founded Ethics The Brand, a performance vegan basketball sneaker company, about two years ago with his wife, Sabrina Galloway. “We are unique because we are the only vegan basketball sneaker in the marketplace,” Galloway explained. “All the materials used are vegan and environmentally friendly.”

The shoes are designed with biodegradable materials, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint. “Having a small imprint on the environment means the world, not just for myself but for everybody who wears the brand,” he added.

Interactions with NBA Stars

Galloway cherished his interactions with NBA stars during his time with USA Basketball. “LeBron actually came up with a handshake for us practice players. That was a moment. It shows the respect and camaraderie within the team,” he recounted.

The Final Game and Future Aspirations

As Galloway prepares for his last game as a practice player in London, he remains hopeful about his future. “If USA and Sean Ford feel it’s best for me to continue with the team, I would love to do that. But if not, I’ve enjoyed this journey and wish them the best in getting the gold medal.”

Galloway also reflected on his NBA career and expressed his desire to return to the league. “If I can get an opportunity from any team to lace them back up in the NBA, that’s the goal. I have a few European offers on the table, but I’m waiting for the right opportunity.”

FAQs

What is the role of a practice player for the USA Men’s National Basketball Team?
Practice players participate in practices, workouts, and exhibition games to help the main team prepare for major tournaments like the Olympics.

How did Langston Galloway become a practice player for USA Basketball?
Galloway was invited by Sean Ford, head of men’s programming for USA Basketball, to join the team as a practice player during their training camp and exhibition games.

What is Ethics The Brand?
Ethics The Brand is a performance vegan basketball sneaker company founded by Langston Galloway and his wife, Sabrina Galloway. The brand focuses on creating environmentally friendly, vegan basketball shoes.

What materials are used in Ethics The Brand sneakers?
The sneakers are made from biodegradable and vegan materials, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint.

What are Langston Galloway’s future aspirations?
Galloway hopes to return to the NBA and is also considering various European offers. He remains dedicated to playing basketball and contributing to the sport.

Conclusion

Langston Galloway’s journey with USA Basketball has been filled with memorable experiences and significant contributions. From playing alongside top-tier NBA stars to promoting his vegan sneaker brand, Galloway has made the most of this unique opportunity. As he looks to the future, his dedication to the game and his passion for making a positive impact remain unwavering. Whether he returns to the NBA or continues his career overseas, Galloway’s story is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence.