Micah Schnyders, a 24-year-ancient American basketball guard from Yorkville, Illinois, is finding success and fulfillment playing for Landini Lerici in Italy’s C maschile league. After six months in the Gulf of Poets, Schnyders, who previously played for Eastern Michigan University, expressed satisfaction with his decision to pursue his basketball career abroad.
“For me, This represents the first time abroad,” Schnyders said, “It could have been very difficult, but I’m overcoming the distance from home with ease. I attribute that to the beauty of this place and its climate, its people, my teammates, the coaches and management. I’ve been fortunate.”
Schnyders, who stands as a redshirt senior, played in 14 games off the bench during the 2023-24 season at Eastern Michigan, scoring 11 points, including a three-pointer against Miami in January. He also recorded five assists and five rebounds throughout the season.
Despite the positive experience, Schnyders admits missing home. “I miss my family,” he said. “But, as I said, I’ve been lucky. My parents and sister came to visit in November and were happy with my situation here. We took the opportunity to visit some cities like Pisa, Florence, and Milan.”
The American guard is captivated by the artistic and historical richness of Italy. “You can imagine how excited an American would be by the artistic and historical wealth of Italian cities. I saw a beautiful cathedral in every city: but how many do you have?” he remarked. He specifically mentioned being particularly impressed by the Cinque Terre.
Schnyders also noted the positive impact of the coastal environment on his adjustment. “Having the sea under my nose has helped me to soften the feeling of missing home. Perhaps I feel the maritime charm due to the fact that where I live (Illinois) and in Michigan where I studied and played, the beaches are very far away.”
He is also embracing the local culture, including the cuisine. “I believe your cuisine is envied throughout the world. You are very good at cooking and also at presenting what you prepare in the restaurants,” Schnyders stated.
Schnyders is currently taking Italian lessons twice a week and studying at home, with assistance from his teammates. “More than one of them can manage English,” he added.
On the court, Landini Lerici currently holds a 14th-place position in the league standings, but Schnyders remains optimistic. “The team is there, in my opinion. The desire to perform is not lacking, and that is, in a sense, the most important thing. You will see,” he said.
Landini Lerici recently concluded a series of pre-season friendly matches, including losses to Don Bosco Livorno (68-62) and Seagulls Genova (70-66), and a win against Next Step Rapallo (67-64). They also suffered a 78-71 defeat against Aurora Chiavari. The team is scheduled to play another friendly match against My Basket Genova on Saturday.