Paris, France - Head Coach Brandon McGruder headed to Paris at the end of June where he coached a U20 team that consisted of players from the NCAA Division II & III, NAIA & NJCAA. This is a place for players to get phenomenal playing experience, an opportunity to represent their country and to gain a cultural education while competing.

"I was honored to be selected to lead this group of young men and represent the USA in Paris," said McGruder. "Basketball was a passion of mine as youth that turned into a career and now I get to travel to Paris to coach. It's truly remarkable."

About 20 countries across all age groups attended the Paris World Games and McGruder was no stranger to the overseas style. Last year, he coached in Spain, learning the FIBA rules.

"The game is quite different over there, it is much more physical and there's almost no rules for how loud the fans can be," added McGruder.

Richie Schueler, director of PhD Hoops, said, "This year, we're taking 3 teams [U20, U17 & U15 boys]. We recruit players across the country to represent the United States in international tournaments playing FIBA rules. All players must be good players and high character people. Coach McGruder is the perfect fit for PhD Hoops USA because he's a high-level teacher of the game and tremendous leader of young men. I knew several years ago that I wanted him to be included in our program. He's a proven winner and I'm excited for his 2nd opportunity to coach in Europe with us!"

McGruder's team finished 2nd & then 3rd which was good enough to medal. They beat Germany, France & Belgium and then lost to both teams who made the championship game. 

"Overall it was a great experience for myself and for the guys. We were down by two to the Netherlands going into the 4th quarter and if we had won that game, I believe we would have made it to the championship," added McGruder.