Since the age of 6, Josef Fahrenholtz has harbored a deep-seated aspiration to pursue a basketball career. This aspiration materialized into reality in April 2024, as he inked a contract with an agency in Lithuania. This pivotal move paved the way for him to join the Nidaros Jets, a professional basketball team based in Trondheim, Norway.
Josef’s upbringing was rooted in the small town of Chatfield, where he shared his home with his father John, his mother Margo, and his sister MaKara. His girlfriend, a dedicated basketball player at Concordia in St. Paul, not only supported him but also encouraged him to pursue his dreams. With their unwavering support, Josef made the life-changing decision to relocate to Norway.
Despite facing numerous challenges, he persevered in pursuit of his dream. His first major setback occurred when he fractured his femur, leading to surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation process to regain the ability to walk. Subsequently, he underwent another surgery on his leg. However, he managed to showcase his skills during his senior year, making it his most successful year yet.
After graduating from Chatfield in 2019, he was faced with the decision of which college to attend. Ultimately, he decided on UW-Superior, where he pursued a double major in Exercise Science and Public Health. Additionally, he had the opportunity to be a part of the basketball team during his time at the university.
He misses a lot being in Norway. The first thing is his family and girlfriend. But there are things many of us take for granted that he misses. Like being able to go to a restaurant to eat. Josef shared, “There are not restaurants on every corner. I actually have to go grocery shopping.” He also has to take a bus everywhere. And there are no clothes dryers.
But not everything is hard to get used to. Josef has noticed the people are very laid back, and he said, “The people are so nice it reminds me of the midwest and home.” His team has made him feel very welcome in a short amount of time.
Playing basketball in Norway is different from playing in the USA. Playing in Norway feels more team-oriented. He has also noticed that it doesn’t seem as focused on strength as IQ. Josef said “IQ is a big part of the game here. Everyone seems so smart.”
Josef has learned many interesting things in the last month – like basketball is the third most popular sport in Norway, with soccer being number one and handball being the second most popular. He is so excited to finally be living the dream he has had since he was 6.
Josef stated, “None of this would be possible without all the support I have.”
Josef is a starter on the team and has been named man of the match in two of the first three games. He has scored 30 and above points in two of the threegames they have had.
Josef is currently under contract from September 2024 to April 2025. Once his contract concludes, he aspires to have significantly improved his skills and performance to be able to play for top-tier leagues, and to be recruited by another team. His ultimate ambition is to reach a level where he can compete in the basketball leagues of Germany, Spain or France.
He eagerly anticipates his family coming to watch him play, and he’s filled with hope that his girlfriend will join him for an unforgettable spring break. He’s truly excited to begin this new chapter in his life and to immerse himself in new experiences around the globe. Once his contract is completed, he plans to return to the U.S.
He hopes to inspire the children in the community by sharing the message that perseverance can overcome any obstacle. He wants them to understand that with determination and hard work, they can turn their dreams into reality.
It’s inspiring to see Josef Fahrenholtz living his dream of playing basketball in Norway. Despite facing obstacles, he persevered and followed his passion. His story is a testament to the power of determination and support from loved ones. The community is proud of him and will continue to cheer him on as he pursues his basketball career in Norway.
If you would like to keep up on Josef’s career or learn about the players on the team they have a Facebook page just search Nidaros Jets.
Wishing you the best of luck with your career and in Norway, Josef. Go JETS!!
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