Marcus Quirk, a renowned name in Brunei Darussalam’s basketball scene, who has been drafted into the Kaohsiung Steelers is set to play in the high intensity P League in Taiwan.
Quirk was the third draft pick this year after showcasing stellar performances in two years for Taiwan’s National Formosa University (NFU), under the guidance of Pegasus Sports Agency.
“It feels surreal. The draft was obviously a goal of mine that I have been working towards over the last couple of years but to actually hear my name called, let alone for it to be in the top three, it didn’t feel real,” the 24-year-old said.
“I’m honestly still processing it. The Steelers are a team that I admire and have a lot of respect for, so to be part of such an organisation is an honour.”
Quirk said he is proud to represent the Sultanate in any way and help set the foundation for its basketball community.
Recalling his basketball development in the NFU, Quirk said, “Being in the basketball system and environment first gave me the chance to adapt to the game here (in Taiwan). It is faster than where I have played before in Brunei, the United Kingdom and the United States.”
Having played many friendly games against professional teams while with the NFU, Quirk said he is fortunate to have been exposed to high level basketball and has helped “accelerated my growth”.
“At NFU, I’ve played friendly games against more NBA players than I can count which is hard to believe given that we were a university team. Sharing the floor with them was such a great experience,” he said.
Quirk, a soon-to-be permanent resident, also expressed his interest to play for the national team and join local tournaments.
“I am still close friends with many young Bruneian players today and we talk often, so coming and playing in Brunei is long overdue.”
The basketball talent also advised local basketball players to “always love what you do”.
“Becoming a good player isn’t about having exceptional dribble moves or making difficult fancy finishes. It’s about being elite at the small things. Being in the right positions and playing the right way. Those are the things that set the best players apart,” he said. – James Kon
