Troy Culley: The Man, The Beard, and Basketball

From Torbay Tigers to Tigers Tübingen, Troy Culley’s coaching journey has taken him from the local courts of Devon to the professional sidelines of Germany. Known for his sharp basketball mind Troy has built a career defined by passion, persistence, and a love for the game. We caught up with him to talk about coaching abroad, the culture of basketball in Europe, and why the process always matters more than the result.

When did you first get involved in basketball?

I got into basketball back around 2005. I was still in school at the time, and what started as some fun on an outdoor court quickly became a lifelong passion. I was instantly hooked after seeing my first Raiders game at Plymouth Pavilions.

What is your current role?

I’m currently coaching professionally in Germany as the assistant coach for Tigers Tübingen, while also serving as assistant coach for the club’s second men’s team, whom I was in charge of last season.

How good is your German?

Let’s just say it’s developmental! I understand a lot more than I can speak, but I have been genuinely surprised how easy it has been to get by day-to-day with English. The club has helped me secure some lessons so I’ll be aiming for that European passport in no time!

Do you know how to say ‘beard’ in German?

Of course – Bart, which would have been a nicer name than Ausländer!

When did you start coaching?

I completed my Basketball England Level One back in October 2006 when I was 15. Rick Wooldridge tricked me into helping out as a way to improve my own playing level.

Where have you coached?

I’ve coached across England in schools, clubs, academies, and the national team setup, working my way through regional and national programs before moving to Germany. I spent 8 years at Myerscough College and gave a helping hand to building one of the best development environments in the United Kingdom which has been responsible for a number of high-level of players – most notably Amari Williams, who was recently drafted by Boston Celtics. Alongside that, I was fortunate enough to be involved in three European Championships, two as the head coach and one as an assistant coach.

Who has the better beard Troy Culley or James Harden?

Let’s be honest, whilst Harden’s beard is iconic, mine has certainly got more coaching mileage, I’ll take the win on quality!

What level of coach are you and what did you have to do to get to that level?

I’m qualified at the highest level through the Basketball England pathway holding my UKCC Level 4 award, which I achieved alongside my master’s degree in Elite Coaching Practice and also hold the FIBA Europe Coaching Certificate and EuroLeague Coaches Academy graduate status.

You recently got your German B License, do you need a different coaching license in Germany?

When I moved to Germany, I initially had to complete the German C License to officially coach the club’s second men’s team in their regional competition. Now I am with the professional team full-time, I had to go one step further and obtain my B License which positions me well to study for their highest (A License) qualification in the future.

Germany won EuroBasket this year. Has the basketball culture near you been noticeably inspired by this?

I wouldn’t say there has been drastic changes, but what I have been impressed with is just the overall professionalism and structure throughout the country at every level. 5th and 6th division games have packed-out gyms, youth games all have stats, and then heck, we had 2,500 people at our home game last week which was just awesome!!

Now that you’ve got a lot of coaching experience is there any specific advice you will give to players and coaches?

Players – fall in love with the process, not just the results. Be curious, ask questions, and learn how to compete the right way.

Coaches – invest in relationships; it’s a people business and you can’t shortcut trust. The Xs and Os matter, but people win games.

Start, Bench, Cut – Beard Edition – Santa Claus, Gandalf, Steve from Minecraft?

Start Santa – big, big culture guy, brings a lot of energy!
Bench Gandalf – wise but very unpredictable!
Cut Steve – sorry, not playoff ready.

Is there any important advice you have for parents whose children like basketball?

Let them enjoy it. Support them, don’t pressure them. The best thing a parent can do is show interest without turning it into a job – let the love for the game grow naturally. My parents nailed this, and still 20 years later, only ever ask if I am enjoying it!

What coaches do you look to for inspiration?

I’m a big Crvena Zvezda fan, so there’s definitely a Balkan influence, guys like Pešić, Obradović and Radonjić really shaped how I see the game. I’ve also always loved the pace and creativity of Spanish basketball, and having Pablo Laso as a lecturer on my FECC course gave me great insight into that style. Between that and watching a few EuroLeague and scouting games every week, I’m constantly picking up new ideas.

Are there any drills that you really enjoy delivering?

Shooting, 1v1, and transition – all three of these have been staples in my practices over the years and have comfortably got their feet under the table here in Tübingen. But if I had to pick one, it would be a 4v3 drill I have stolen from our sport director that really encourages ball movement and finding the best shot.

Do you still play much basketball?

These days I’m more of a ‘practice legend’ than an active player! I am good for a three on demand like the old Exeter & District days and can mix it up with an underhanded half-court shot during gameday walkthroughs!

How much would you have to be paid to shave your beard? (We can probably scrape together about £6.42)

Funny you say that… it only cost me €10 to nearly lose it completely, due to a language barrier when I was finding a new barber out here – full recovery, beard stays.

You’ve coached teams for England and Great Britain, how different is that compared to regular coaching with a domestic team?

International coaching is intense but very rewarding. Personally, I don’t think there is a higher achievement than being able to sing the national anthem and represent your country. Domestic coaching gives you more time to really build a culture and help players develop whereas international work sharpens your ability to get results quickly.

What do you think needs to happen for Great Britain to realistically compete for medals and titles on the international stage?

Sustained investment in development, better alignment between clubs and the national pathway, and continued support for coaches. We have the talent, but unfortunately the structure, resources and consistent opportunities to compete at the right level seemingly always fall short.

Do you have any specific goals for the next 12 months?

Professionally, I want to help Tigers compete at the top end of league and make a push for a playoff spot whilst continuing to grow as a coach and fly the flag overseas. Personally, I’ve had the idea to put together a book about the experience of coaching abroad – let’s see what happens!

Is there anyone you would like to give a shout-out to?

Honestly, after nearly 20 years in basketball, there are too many people to thank properly – coaches, players, mentors, family and friends. You don’t get anywhere alone in this sport. I’ve been lucky to cross paths with some amazing people who’ve really helped shape the journey but there will always be a special shout-out to Rick Wooldridge – even though he is no longer with us – I try to help every day like he did for me.