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Jasmine Thomas is the all-around playmaker that you want on your side.
Since her early days in Flint, MI, she has been willing to do what was necessary to win. She enjoyed an unbeaten season in high school before playing for the Michigan State (2009-13) After turning pro, she has played in Sweden, Germany, Poland and Latvia, hooping overseas for more than a decade.
Swish Appeal recently spoke with the incredible dribbler about her unique basketball career.
What was first, basketball or track and field?
Basketball.
How did you get started with basketball and when was the first moment that you started taking basketball seriously?
After being too young to play with my elementary team in 4th grade, my dad and I began working out together in order to prepare for the next school year. Approaching my freshman year of high school, he told me to decide if basketball was something I wanted to take serious, and my main focus became that, despite participating in other sports.
When did you decide to wear No. 1? What’s the story behind the decision?
I picked No. 1 during one of my AAU seasons after originally choosing No. 7. There was a rule that single digit jersey numbers could only be signaled using one hand instead of two (meaning Nos. 6 to 9 were not permitted). No. 1 was not a popular number back then, unlike No. 7, therefore my reasoning for choosing it. The meaning behind wearing No. 1 has grown more personal since then.
Were you always ambidextrous? What drills did you do to make your right hand stronger and more reliable?
From the beginning, my dad knew what it would take to play at a high level and that was being able to use both hands. In other words, this was something I consistently worked at to get better. I’m right handed actually, but watching me play many are convinced otherwise. Drill work included a variety of ball handling drills, both stationary and mobile (such as using cones, tennis balls, etc.) using only my left hand as well as working on my left hand layups.
How does it feel to have a perfect season? Asking about your 28-0 record in 2009 at Flint Hamady High School.
For this reason it’s hard for me to believe there is no such thing as perfect! The feeling is amazing. Knowing the hard work paid off with history to show for it!
You were a top-five or top-10 prospect in the state. Was it a heavy burden or a privilege?
I rarely gave attention to the chatter, which didn’t allow it to become a heavy burden. However, I do recall participating in all-star games, highlighted in the several articles, etc., which of course feels like a privilege when your work is acknowledged.
How and why did you decide on Michigan State?
Honestly, taking the college visits was the most satisfying part of the process. Being wanted is always a good feeling! Michigan State was not only close to home but offered an extensive educational program and high level basketball with being part of the Big Ten Conference. My visit to MSU was fun!
Was being an all-around contributor something that came to you naturally? Or did you decide early on, that you’re going to focus on the team, and be a passer, rebounder and defender?
I suppose naturally, I am a winner! Therefore, whatever it takes to have that result is what I did. Sometimes, that meant being a top scorer and other times a facilitator. Good teams also utilize roles and that changes for many players throughout their career. Nonetheless, defense for me has been and always will be part of that formula.
What happened in the summer of 2012? Because you had career highs your senior year.
Just that. I was going into my senior year. My last go around before taking the next steps in life/career. My work ethic never lacked, therefore my mindset needed to change. Asking myself, “How do I want to leave my mark at Michigan State?”
Most memorable moment when playing for the Spartans?
Winning the Big Ten Conference during the 2010-2011 season was by far the most memorable moment.
When did you know that you were going pro?
Continuing basketball was always something I wanted to do after college. So towards the end of my senior year at MSU is when I started talking steps to secure an agent.
You started your pro career in Israel. Why? And what was your reaction after landing in Europe?
Starting my career was exciting and the offer from Israel was not something I wanted to pass on. However, after landing in Europe for the first time (Sweden). I could quickly tell the difference between the basketball style and culture.
You played for five years in Keltern, Germany. What kept you coming back?
After my first season in Germany, I remember saying I wanted to find a team I could come back to instead of switching teams after every season. And ironically, I did just that with Keltern. I enjoyed my time with the club and captured my first championship! During my time there I also tore my ACL, and Keltern made sure I was taken care of.
After returning from Europe you’ve also managed to play for the Flint Lady Monarchs in the Global Women’s Basketball Association (GWBA). Can you tell me more about that team?
The Flint Monarchs had been around for some time before joining the GWBA. It presented a special opportunity for me to play in my hometown, which hadn’t happened since high school. The GWBA was not a big league, but sufficient in a way that it provided organized competition for players in the off season while also providing showcase opportunities to jump start professional careers. The Flint Lady Monarchs won multiple championships, with the latest being in 2022.
You’ve been a pro since 2013. What keeps you going and what are your plans for the future?
I still love the game of basketball! Different factors don’t allow it to be this simple at times, but I am motivated by the journey and grateful for all the places basketball has taken me. You’ll have to stay tuned for future plans!
A special thank you to Sergiu-Valentin Gherdan of Gherdan Sports for arranging the interview.
