Playing in the Czech Republic: An Interview with QJ Peterson

Peterson in action with USK Praha (photo courtesy of QJ Peterson).

QJ Peterson is a rookie guard playing in the Czech Republic. A scorer by nature, he's averaging 23.2 points 8 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game in the National Basketball League, the top division in the Czech Republic. Peterson graduated from Virginia Military Institute (VMI) in 2017, where he averaged 19.5 points per game over the course of his four-year career at VMI. We talked to him about his experience so far this season.

What team do you play for in the Czech Republic, and where in the country is it located?
I play for Usk Praha Owls, which is located in Prague, Czech Republic.

​Are there any other Americans on your team?
There is one other American on the team, Cadarian Raines.

​What's the level of play like in the NBL? (Czech Republic's top division)
I think the level of play is better in the NBL than at VMI. It's a faster and more physical game.

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What has been the biggest adjustment to playing in the Czech Republic?
I think the biggest adjustment has been the language barrier on and off the court. I enjoy the style of play, how everyone can shoot at all five positions and can play together.

What are some of your goals for this season?
Some of my goals for this season are to win a championship of course, as well as win MVP of the league.

What's one thing that's surprised you about living in Europe? What's been your favorite thing so far?
My favorite thing about Europe has been site seeing. There are so many beautiful places and different sceneries! The food here has also been amazing. I haven't come across one bad meal yet! ​