Most Firebirds players play basketball full-time, even though the season is only from March to May. This means players seek out other contracts and opportunities to play, either domestically or overseas. Many Firebirds players have and are having success playing overseas, the latest being Dreko Palmer in China.
For those who know Palmer from last season, this shouldn't come as a surprise. The three-time TBL All-Star averaged 20.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.8 assists last season for the Firebirds, leading them to their best postseason run in years. Outside of the Firebirds, Palmer also has played professionally in Africa and Mexico. However, China is where Palmer is spending this offseason.
Palmer isn't playing for a team, but rather in various tournaments. It's unconventional for a basketball player, but it's working wonders for him.
"I won three championships. I played in the 3x3 FIBA tournament, I came in second in that and got a silver medal. I've also won two dunk contests, so I'm bringing home two trophies and two medals as of right now."
Palmer's next tournament is on the 13th, where he's expected to win yet another trophy or medal. The cultural shift has been quite an adjustment for him, because of how different China and the US are. However, "it's been going pretty good from a basketball standpoint."
Tentatively, Palmer plans to return to the Firebirds for the 2025 season. It'll be his third year with the team, and the goal is simple: a championship. In Palmer's first year with the team, the Firebirds were bounced out of the playoffs by the Newfoundland Rogues, who now play in the BSL. Last season, the Firebirds were a game away from making it to the TBL Finals...but a devastating game-winner against the St. Louis Griffins in a do-or-die Game Three marked the end of their season. Getting closer and closer every year, it's time for the Firebirds to claim the Lillie.
The season starting won't be the only exciting thing happening in March for Palmer. The 31-year-old and his wife have a baby on the way, due in March. It'll be an exciting time for Palmer, as he balances pursuing his basketball career and being a father. Plus, it'll be adorable to see his baby in a Firebirds onesie.