Basketball is one of the world's most popular sports. However, it wasn't always that way. It wasn't until about ten to fifteen years ago that basketball really took off around the world. More foreign players began to enter the NBA, consequentially creating a larger fan base among young fans worldwide. However, if you do not have the talent to make it in the NBA--yet still love the game--do not worry. There are several career opportunities in the game of basketball, many of which pay very well at the highest levels of competition.

Coach

The head coach is one of the most sought after positions in the game of basketball. The head coach is responsible for managing the players on his team, setting a game plan and adjusting to the opposing team during the game. Head coaches usually have played the game at a high level of competition, although many successful coaches never played past high school.

Head coaches understand the game really well and know how to get the most out of their players. Coaches are good at dealing with athletes, can push them physically and mentally, as well as know how to utilize the team's talents.

Head coaches are always assisted by assistant coaches. Assistant coaches help the head coach in practice and during games. Often an aspiring head coach must serve as an assistant for many years before being offered a head coach position.

Scout

Scouts serve a very important role in the success of a basketball program or franchise. The scout is responsible for scouting other teams and learning more about their players and coach's tendencies.

Scouts work closely with the coaching staff, advising the coaches on offenses and defenses to run against the defined opponent.

Scouts must understand the game perfectly, and know a lot about assessing opposing players. A great scout can mean the difference between a win or loss.

In the professional level, scouts also attend college games and scout collegiate players who may possibly play someday for the professional franchise. They have a lot of responsibility, especially if the franchise drafts that player later on because the franchise is putting so much stock in the success of that player.

At the high school level, coaches often also serve as the scout, because the school's budget does not allow for an individual scout.

Trainer

Trainers are so important to a basketball program or franchise. They are responsible for meeting the pre-game needs of players, such as stretching and conditioning.

Trainers are most helpful during a player's time of rehab. The athlete will work closely with the trainer, slowly rehabbing back to full health. The trainer must be certified and very knowledgeable in the areas of conditioning and health.

General Manager/Owner

In order to become an owner of a professional basketball franchise, you obviously must have a lot of money. If you do not have a lot of money, you can attain some of the ownership duties by becoming a general manager.

The general manager has a ton of responsibility with the team. The general manager is hired by the owner and works closely with him, managing a team with the amount of money the owner or salary cap will allow.

The general manager must sign or release free agents, draft new players and make trades when needed. They run the day-to-day operations of the team and ensure the team's lineup presents the greatest chance of winning.

Agent

The sports agent represents the basketball player and sometimes becomes a close friend of the athlete and his family. The sports agent was well chronicled in the movie, "Jerry Maguire."

Sports agents' negotiate contracts not only between the franchise and player, but also with product sponsors and charities.

The agent is very responsible for providing the athlete with as much money as he is truly worth.