Nolan Traoré is now living what millions of young people around the world dream of one day achieving: playing in the NBA. In New York, wearing the Brooklyn Nets jersey, the young Frenchman is discovering the daily reality of the highest level of world basketball. "It's a dream come true, I'm having a lot of fun," he says simply, aware of the privilege but also the demands of this new chapter.

Entering the NBA means accepting an intense pace, a succession of games, travel, and constant physical challenges. "There are a lot of games, it's physically demanding," he explains. What he misses most about France might seem trivial, but it reveals the extent of the adjustment: not having to speak English all the time, but also the food and the familiar daily routines.

Before establishing himself permanently in the league, Nolan spent time in the G League, a key step in his development that taught him a great deal. The positive aspects of this period are numerous. "It's the experience, the playing time, the confidence, the playing time," he summarizes. Often a low-key experience, but fundamental for preparing himself mentally and physically for the demands of the NBA game.

Throughout this journey, family support remains essential. His older brother Armel, also a basketball player, passed on a simple yet crucial piece of advice: keep working no matter what and keep your head held high. This mantra guides Nolan every day in an environment where nothing is guaranteed.

What surprises the 19-year-old point guard in the NBA is constantly being compared to the world's elite. "Meeting big players every game," he says. Facing off against basketball players he used to watch on TV from France a few years ago is still a powerful experience.

Here in the USA, there's no rest. Every game is a test, every minute on the court must be earned. Without any calculated rhetoric, Nolan Traoré is already a source of inspiration for many young non-Americans, in France, Africa, and elsewhere, who dream of following the same path. His message is clear and universal: work hard, watch a lot of basketball with the mindset of a student of the sport, and deeply love what you do.

Even without explicitly claiming a particular heritage or origin, his journey shows that it's possible to come from elsewhere and make a name for yourself at the highest level. The challenge continues. Achieving the NBA dream is only the first step. Now, Nolan Traoré must continue to work, day after day, to gain more space on the court, earn his place, and establish himself. Every minute is earned. Every game is a test. And every improvement comes at a price. In New York, far from home, Nolan is learning a truth that only those who live this world from the inside truly understand: the dream is beautiful, but intense, and the sacrifices continue.