A Pivot in Play: Frederik Jellum’s Leap from Handball to Basketball

Against the backdrop of a world grappling with the challenges of a global pandemic, Frederik Daverne Jellum found himself at a crossroads that would redefine his path in the world of sports. As indoor arenas lay dormant and the rhythmic bounce of a basketball replaced the familiar heft of a handball, Frederik's pivot to basketball under the open skies of Denmark marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey. From those first uncertain dribbles on the asphalt to representing his country on the national stage, Frederik's story is a testament to the unexpected twists life can take. In an exclusive interview, Frederik opens up about his rapid ascent in basketball, the passions that fuel him off the court, and his dreams for the future—a candid exploration of a young athlete navigating the highs and lows of chasing greatness in the game of basketball.

1. Growing up in Denmark, a country not traditionally known for basketball, what inspired you to pick up the game and who were your role models, both locally and internationally?

Growing up, I actually didn’t play basketball. Starting out, i played team handball, a big sport here in Denmark. It wasn’t until Covid in 2020 that I picked up a basketball. Every gym was closed and the only opportunity to play any sport was outside. This was when I decided to play pickup at my local park with my friends. One day, the guy who’s actually my present coach texted me. He saw potential in me, and wanted me to start playing for his team. I started playing at the beginning of May. By the end of that Summer, I was selected to participate in a U15 National Team camp which consisted of 40 players. Actually, the first ever basketball game I played was a National Team game. It’s safe to say I’ve come a long way.

2. Away from basketball, what are your interests or hobbies? How do you unwind and keep your life balanced?

When I don’t work out, I like to rest and put on a movie or tv show. I also enjoy hanging out with my girlfriend.

3. Being from Denmark, you have access to a rich culinary culture. What's your favorite Danish dish, and have you ever tried cooking it yourself?

I don’t think I can choose one dish, but I like a lot of different pasta dishes which I also like to cook for myself, from time to time. I also enjoy going out to eat sushi with my girlfriend, friends or family. There is a Danish dish called “Smørrebrød” (Smorgasbord) which i like to eat when there's nothing else in the fridge.

4. How do you like to spend time with your family during the off-season, and are there any particular activities or places you enjoy together?

I like to take a couple of days away from basketball, before the off season work starts. This could be a vacation where I can decouple my brain and gain fuel and motivation to work extremely hard, for the upcoming season. I often travel to Greece with my girlfriend’s family. We like to explore the islands and enjoy the rich Greek culture.

5. After a tough game or during the off-season, what TV shows do you binge-watch to relax and unwind ?

A safe choice which I always come back to is Friends. I can always watch an episode while I meal prep or when I’m just trying to relax. When I have more time, I'm also into shows like Breaking Bad or Snowfall.

6. Off the court, what are some hobbies or interests you pursue in Denmark that help you relax and stay balanced?

When I’m not on the court, I like to go for a lift at school with my friends or at my local gym. I also like to spend time with my girlfriend, parents and grandmother.

7. As you continue to make a name for yourself in basketball, what are your long-term goals both on and off the court? How do you plan to leverage your platform for positive impact?

A short term goal of mine is to play college basketball. I want to try my talents against the best youth basketball players in the world and college is where that action is. As of now, I don’t have a specific goal for my basketball career other than playing professionally somewhere. I want to be as good as possible. Whether that takes me to the highest shelf of leagues or not, I’ll work hard and strive towards my goal of reaching my highest potential.

A teammate of mine has interesting view about professional basketball. We can use it for more than just hooping. We can use it as a travel card to explore the world outside of just the game. I also hope to be able to help kids less fortunate than me and be a positive role model for younger players and show them the benefits of being an accountable, hard worker.

8. Could you walk us through your daily training routine?

I’ll wake up at 5:10am to get shots up or get some skill work in. Afterwards, I’ll have school from 8am to about 2pm. After school, I’ll get a lift in. Then I’ll eat and rest before going to team practice in the evening.

9. What influenced your decision to continue your basketball career in Denmark rather than seeking opportunities abroad or are you seeking opportunities abroad?

In Europe, you can play on two teams at the same time which gave me the opportunity to play in a professional league while also still playing youth basketball. This season, I’ve played against a lot of 4-year college guys in their first season as professionals. I’ve learned a lot from playing against guys who are bigger and stronger than I am and I hope to take this experience with me to prep school/college next year.

10. In the realm of Danish and international basketball, who do you look up to as role models, and how have they influenced your game and professional attitude?

I don’t think I look up to any players. In my short time of playing basketball, I’ve learned a lot from different coaches and players so I always try to keep an open mind. Obviously, Kobe’s mentality has been an inspiration to me and I am always trying to be better today than I was yesterday. In terms of my playing style: as a 6 '9 forward who likes to shoot the three, I try to study people with my size and movability in the leagues I wanna play in one day. Players like Paul George, Giannis and Jason Tatum. This way, I can also study the playing style, physicality and communication it takes to play there.

11. How has your family supported your basketball career? Are there any traditions or sports other than basketball that run in your family?

When I transitioned from team handball to basketball, my parents and friends supported me. My mom and dad buy into this mission of mine almost as much as I do. Whether that’s going to the gym with me to rebound at 6am or coming to my games and supporting me and my teammates, they are always there for me which I appreciate a lot.

As the sun sets on the courts where Frederik Daverne Jellum first chose to chase a basketball instead of a handball, his story stands as a vivid reminder of the unpredictability of life and the potential within us to adapt and excel. From the quiet parks of Denmark to the bustling energy of international basketball, Frederik’s journey is more than just a tale of athletic transition; it’s a testament to the power of resilience, vision, and the relentless pursuit of one’s passion against all odds. As he continues to write his chapters in the annals of basketball, Frederik not only aims to leave his mark on the game but also to inspire others to embrace the unexpected turns of their own journeys.