Klagenfurt, Austria — Great Bend's Jordan Kitch, recently competed on the international stage with the Student Athlete World Team USA program at the United World Games.
The USA boys squad (7-1) placed fifth against top-tier international competition.
The United World Games in Austria marks a significant milestone in Kitch’s athletic journey, providing exposure to international play and reinforcing the values of teamwork, discipline, and representation at a high level of competition.
For Kitch, the experience extended beyond basketball.
Competing internationally also gave him the opportunity to connect with athletes from different countries and cultures, broadening his perspective both on and off the court.
“This was an experience of a lifetime,” he said. “I got to play the game I love while making friends and seeing parts of the world I had never seen before.”
Kitch provided scoring, defensive pressure through steals, and a strong presence on the boards. Coaches also noted his willingness to embrace a team-first role and compete with integrity in a fast-moving, high-level environment.
Beyond statistics, Kitch’s time overseas highlighted his ability to adapt and represent his country in a positive way. Coaches emphasized leadership, composure, and sportsmanship as important parts of the team’s identity throughout the trip.
Kitch was one of only eight boys selected from across the United States to represent the program in a highly competitive European tournament featuring teams from around the world.
The United World Games featured more than 20 teams in Kitch’s division, creating a fast-paced and diverse international basketball experience.
Kitch's selection came after a competitive evaluation process that included game film review, coach recommendations, and personal interviews.
Coaches and evaluators cited his consistency, athletic ability, and basketball IQ as key factors in his selection to the national-level program.
Kitch carries with him not only memories of competition abroad, but also lessons learned through travel, leadership, and the shared language of basketball.
