Nedzad Muratovic (201-F-1995) is a 30 year old 201cm forward from Bosnia playing his second season with TSV Oberaching Tropics. He has gathered experience over the years playing in his home land Bosnia as well as Serbia, Slovenia, North Macedonia and Spain. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Nedzad for talking to germanhoops.com. Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward/center. If you had to compare your game to a NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description? That is easy. Toni Kukoc. I used to watch a lot of videos on him. Most of my moves I got from him. He was bigger though.
You’re a player that can score and rebound the ball and has a three pointer. Would you classify yourself as a modern big man? Yes I would, but a 4 and not a 5. I can play the 5 in the pro B if needed.
You have become a very good rebounder in Germany. Is that more because the team is lacking height or improvements in your game? I think that it has helped my rebounding with Oberaching because there is a lack of height on the team. But I also have been forced to have to get more rebounds. I did have 22 rebounds in a game in Slovenia. I´m more of a double double guy. With Oberaching it is more about the numbers.
What kind of a defender would you classify yourself right now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? I´m big, but also kind of lazy and slow. But my long arms help me. I try to be a leader as best as possible.
On what areas of your game are you working on most at the moment? I´m trying to improve as a 5 man. I used to be more of a pick and pop guy, but I do the roll if needed. It´s all a little new, but I can do it.
You played with OKK Sloboda Tuzla in young years. Did you have a mentor at that time? I was always the youngest. There were many veterans and I always listened and respected them. I had a rough start there, but it was all good after. We had a big fan base there. I learned a lot from coach Dusko Vujosevic.
From 2016-2018 you averaged 9/4 with OKK Sloboda Tuzla. How did your game grow in those years? My coach motivated me to practice with the first team. I was 17 when I practiced with the senior team. I learned the pick and roll there and important small details.
You played with Rio Ourense Termal (Spain-LEB Gold) in the 2018-2019 season averaging 4.0ppg, 2.3rpg. What kind of an experience was that? How do you remember the basketball at that time in the Leb Gold? At first I didn´t know that I would go there. It happened then within a few days. It was all brand new there and had to start at 0. I was the back up at the 4, but also played the 3.
You won twice against FC Barcelona 2 and scored in double figures and played against future NBA player Leandro Bolmaro. What do you remember most from those 2 battles? I remember the home game most. We needed 2-3 more wins to reach the playoffs. Beating Barcelona was uplifting. This was the game where my friend got injured and I had to finish the game with heavy minutes.
You also played a season with OKK Novi Pazar (Serbia-KLS) averaging 10.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 61.6%, 3PT: 19.6%, FT: 67.2%. What was it like playing in Serbia after playing mostly in Bosnia?
Serbia was a lot of fun. The league had 18 teams and each team had a history with each team. We had crazy games. It was during Covid, so the arenas were empty. We finished somewhere 5-6 when we were predicted to be a team that would fight to remain in the league. It was a big success for the club.
You played parts of 2 seasons with Terme Olimia Podcetrtek (Slovenia-Liga Nova KBM). How would you compare the Slovenian league in comparison to leagues in Bosnia and Serbia? All those leagues are kind of similar. Guys move from league to league. I feel like that skill wise, Slovenia was the best league out of the 3. The travel was good. The farthest game was 2 hours by bus while in Spain it was 13 hours.
You came late to the TSV Oberhaching Tropics Deisenhofen (Germany-ProB) last season averaging 15.5ppg, 8.1rpg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 21.7%, FT: 55.6%. Is it fair to say that you have found a second home in Oberaching? Yes that is right. All helped me get adjusted and feel comfortable. When I came form Bosnia, I had no working Visa. Mario allowed me to practice with the team. I´m really thankful that Mario gave me that opportunity.
Is it fair to say that head coach Mario Matic gave you the utmost freedom and trust from day 1 to really to let you explore your game? How vital has he been for your game in Germany?
Mario is the number reason why I´m here. I have a brother in Munich and came to be with him. Then I got the chance from Mario. I was always welcome. Mario is a super guy.
How has your game continued to grow in Germany? What part of your game has improved most? I play more freely. Before Oberaching, if I made a mistake, I landed directly on the bench. It isn´t like that with Mario. Mario lets me paly my game. I love the Pro B. There are many talented teams. I´m very happy in Oberaching. I didn´t regret coming here.
Last season you witnessed the last games of legend Omari Knox. How will you always remember him? Omari is a very good guy. I have known him the last 3-4 years. He is a very hard worker. I have learned a lot from him. He showed me the ropes in Germany. I have a lot of respect for him.
How special of a player is Jonathan Zeisberger? Is sky the limit for him? He isn´t limited in any way. It is amazing how he dominates the league at age 18. But he still needs a lot of work to become a playmaker. Now adays point guards are crafted at age 25. When the time is right, he will be a great player.
What goals do you still have in your career? I want to be a professional and continue to travel. The last offer I had before Oberaching was from a team in Slovakia first division. However I didn´t take it and came to Obercahing. I got married and decided to settle down. 1,5 years have passed now. I don´t know what the future will bring. I want to play at the highest level. But most important is that I´m happy and healthy now.
Who is the best player that you ever faced that reached the NBA? I played against France national team and guys like Nicolas Batum, Nando de Colo, Rudy Gobert and Boris Diaw.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? Gasper Skorjanic, Almir Hasandic, Andrzej Pluta, Emir Akemedovic, O Showen Williams.
Please name your NBA, Euroleague and Bosnian Mount Rushmore?
NBA Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Steph Curry
Euro Bo McCaleb, Vasilios Spanoulis, Dimitrios Diamantidis
Bosnia Mirza Teletovic, Dzan Musa, Kenan Kkamenjas, Mirza Delibasic
Nedzad Muratovic (201-F-1995) is a 30 year old 201cm forward from Bosnia playing his second season with TSV Oberaching Tropics. He has gathered experience over the years playing in his home land Bosnia as well as Serbia, Slovenia, North Macedonia and Spain. He spoke to germanhoops.com after exploding for 46 points against BBC Coburg.
Thanks Nedzad for talking to germanhoops.com. You recently scored 46 points in a Pro B game in a tough loss against BBC Coburg. How tough was enjoying that moment despite the loss? I couldn’t enjoy it as much. We only ha d6 guys that game. I had to step up. Scoring over 40 points is difficult. I had no idea that I had so many points in the fourth quarter. I thought I had around 30 points.
Did the Coburg fans give you some cheers for your incredible effort? It was nice to get some support from them. It surprised me a little. In the previous game there , I had played only 12 minutes after getting ejected for my second technical foul.
I can imagine that was your career high or not?
Yes it was.
How tough was playing this game? Oberaching only had 6 players dressed. You played 40 minutes. Had you ever played a whole game before with a rest? It happened once before in my career in Spain. Our starter got injured early and I had to play the rest of the game.
How tough was that for you? Did you need an oxygen?
It was very tough especially since we don’t practice twice a day like other teams. I needed 2 days to rest. I was dead when we got home.
A guy I would have expected to score 40-50 points was Jonathan Zeisberger, but you were the guy that took control? Was that something head coach Mario Matic wanted or did the severe scoring just come with what the game gave you? It was mostly what the game gave me, but head coach Mario Matic also knows how to prepare you for any situation.
It seems like you have become a dominant scorer since arriving in Oberaching. Has Mario Matic given you that special freedom?
Yes he has. Every preparation for every game is different. Mario puts no pressure on me. He gives me total freedom. I didn’t get that from most coaches in my career.
You only had 6 points after one quarter. How were you feeling at that time? If someone had said at that time that you would end with 46 points what would you have thought? I believe in myself and now I am capable of a game like that. However I also believe there is a right way to play. Most of the coaches in my career have believed more in the system and not in the individual aspect.
In the second quarter, your game really took off. You scored an incredible 21 points and 5 three’s. That must have been a career best for you in a quarter. Do you ever remember dominating a quarter so much in your career? No I don’t think so. It was one of my best quarters. I was hot and my teammates got me the ball.
The turning point came in the third quarter as BBC Coburg exploded for 41 points. I guess fatigue came for Oberaching? Yes we were. They just kept going point by point. It really affected us. But we had to get through it.
You continued to score well in the second half and finished with an amazing 46 points. What was our favorite own basket? I would say my 3 pointer, but I don’t know which one. I just like to shoot the three. I have been a shooter my whole life. I like the fadeaway.
Despite the loss what does this 46 point explosion mean to you personally? I’m 30 years old and am happy I achieved a game like that. The teams that I played with before Oberaching, it was all about the system and not individuality. Mario gave me loose hand. I felt like I really did it at the end.
Did you get any cool messages for your performance? My friend told me after that I needed 2 points to break league record.
Did you get donuts for the team or did they treat you? No not yet, but I will. Teammate Philipp Bode told me about getting donuts.
Jaleen Smith is truly one of the real good character dudes playing overseas. Not only to mention his great ability on the court, but overall being a great family guy and humble and correct guy to media folk like me. I have seen all kinds of players over my 20 + basketball career having done 2000 + interviews from the real friendly playing in lower leagues begging me for an interview, to normal dudes playing at good levels, but not interested in promotion to the real studs at the NBA/Euroleague level who can’t be bothered. Jaleen Smith is in my top 5-10 of guys that I have done the most interviews in my career with 35 dating back to 2017 when he was a Pro A rookie in Germany with the MLP Academics Heidelberg. When he was balling in Germany, I would interview him regularly and even in the 2020 Covid time, we had an almost daily interview session I called the Tournament diary when he was competing with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg in the easyCredit BBL bubble in Munich. We hadn’t done an interview in more than 2 years since he had been playing in other countries, when I asked him for an interview during my ‘A little Love From Overseas For Lebron James’ when he beat Kareem Abdul Jabbar’s NBA scoring record, he didn’t hesitate. He even tried to hook me up with ex NBA player Mario Hezonja last summer and Dario Saric last weekend. Unfortunately both guys declined. He has always been there for me when I wanted an interview in the last 9 years and it wasn’t any different the past week. He was in action with Croatia during the Fiba window playing against Germany and I was able to interview him twice before the first game in Croatia and once again after the bitter loss in Bonn yesterday.
Oscar Da Silva and Jaleen Smith
pic credit: Brian Laluna
Smith and Croatia won the first battle in Zagreb 93-88 and it was the first time that he battled Germany with Croatia. ‘It was really nice to win in Croatia. We had a full gym and the atmosphere was great. The feeling was intense, but it didn’t hit me until we played in Germany. I got emotional’, stressed Jaleen Smith. It was a hard fought win for Croatia in their own living room where there were many many lead changes. Croatia just wasn’t able to slam the door shut earlier. ‘I mean Germany is a really good team even without the NBA and Euroleague guys. We knew that it would be a tough game. We stayed tough and showed we had character being able to pull out the win. I think that our fans gave us a real boost and helped us win that game’, said Jaleen Smith. Croatia finally broke away in crunch-time to secure the first win in the weekend series. ‘We made them very uncomfortable and I feel that our experience helped us as well. They were a bit inexperienced at the guard position. Our good rebounding and not allowing second chance points helped us’, added Jaleen Smith. The 2 ex NBA players Hezonja and Saric combined for 44 points. Without the massive production from those 2 stellar players, Germany probably would have danced home with the victory. ‘It was big getting that type of production from them. We always know what we will get from them. But we also had other guys step up for us. It wasn’t just those 2’, commented Jaleen Smith. One of those other great supporters in the scoring department was Roko Badzim who has Spanish ACB experience with Monbus Obradoiro CAB Santiago de Compostela who had 15 points and shot 4/4 from outside. Was he the unsung hero in the first game? ‘Oh yes he was our unsung hero. He hit big time three pointers whenever we needed it when others were struggling. He really stepped up for us’, stressed Jaleen Smith.
Jaleen Smith who played at the University of New Hampshire (NCAA) from 2013-2017 and improved his scoring average each season and was a 2 time All-AEC second team selection had a big battle with rising German youngster Jack Kayil. The ex Vechta guard had a superb game with 15 points and 5 dimes displaying his leadership skills. ‘It was good battle. He had the same type of stats that I had. We cancelled each other out. I told him after the game in Bonn that I really loved his game. He is really coming into his own. He is developing really well. I can’t wait to see how he continues to develop’, stressed Jaleen Smith. For Smith the 2 games was a real Alba Berlin reunion as he faced many of his ex teammates like Johannes Thiemann, Tim Schneider, Jonas Mattisseck, Louis Olinde and Malte Delow. After not having seen them for years, was there an ex teammate that had the biggest impact on you? ‘I think that Schneider and Mattissek impressed me the most. Mattisseck was super aggressive. Thiemann really killed us in the second game’, expressed Jaleen Smith. In the first game, the ex NBA Summer League player with the Phoenix Suns had a very respectable game with 15/5/6 stats. He took 7 shots and got to the free throw line for 9 attempts. Was he content with his game and aggressiveness? ‘It was good, but it could have been better. I was just super excited that we got the win. I will do anything to get that win. I wasn’t getting to the free throw line as much going into these windows, but I knew that my game had to set the tone. I was impressed with my aggressiveness from the start’, stated Jaleen Smith.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Jaleen Smith in Frankfurt in 2023
Both Germany and Croatia only had 48 hours to recuperate from the first game as Germany had the rematch on German soil in Bonn. Croatia led in double digits in the fourth quarter, but sill lost 91-89 in overtime. ‘We had a stretch at the end of the fourth quarter where we just played chaotic. We played out of our system. These things happen. We have to learn from this loss. I think that a loss like this will help build our character’, warned Jaleen Smith. Croatia had the slim 24-22 lead after 10 minutes. Croatia has 16 points from Hezonja and Saric. Was the defense suspect allowing 22 points? ‘I don’t think that it was our defense. Their offensive rebounds hurt us and Johannes Thiemann was getting easy baskets’, said Jaleen Smith. Croatia led 50-41 at the break. Germany had the overwhelming rebound edge, but Croatia still found a way to take semi-control of the contest. ‘We did a good job limiting them to one shot and we got out running. They sent 3 to crash the glass and we benefited getting out on transition. They also got some turnovers’, said Jaleen Smith. Germany kept fighting hard and trailed only 67-62 at the end of 30 minutes. Germany had a 5-0 run in the last minute with a trey from Louis Olinde. Germany’s brutal 15-1 offensive rebound advantage over Croatia was giving them nightmares. ‘It was huge throughout the game. We actually did a pretty good job limiting offensive rebounds in the third quarter. They just did a better job hitting shots. We couldn’t finish them off. You can’t give a talented team like them the opportunity to get back into the game’, commented Jaleen Smith. Germany showed that one can never rule them out as they staged an annoying 10-0 run in crunch-time to dead lock the game at 77-77 and force overtime. Did Croatia already have the game won in their minds? ‘Yes we thought that we had the game won. We played too chaotic. We let the game get away. We should of slowed the game down more. But we continued to miss shots and that bit us in the butt’, added Jaleen Smith. Did Germany want it more in overtime? ‘I don’t think that they wanted it more. They made timely shots and got the key position for offensive rebounds. The way they were playing, it would have been tough for anyone to come back’, stressed Jaleen Smith. He had an incredible game and was so close to a triple double with 12/9/9. Was that his best game for Croatia? ‘I think that this might have been my best game in a Croatian jersey. I have been able to see the game better this past year. I’m just trying to continue to learn everyday . I’m so blessed that head coach Tomislav Mijatovi has given me the keys to the team. I feel like I’m getting better as I get older’, warned Jaleen Smith. It was no surprise that his fondest moment in the loss was seeing old friends. ‘My fondest moment in Bonn was taking a pic with all my ex Alba Berlin teammates. I might get it blown up or framed’, laughed Jaleen Smith. He supplied me with great pics for my article. I thanked him for the great player/journalist working relationship and said until the next time. I wonder what basketball circumstances will present itself for interview #36?
Chuck Harris (188-G-2001, college: SMU) is a 24 year old 188cm guard from Washinhgton DC playing his rookie season for the Kirchheim Knights. He began the season with the Hakro Merlins. He began his basketball career at Gonzaga College High School and then played 3 years at Butler University (NCAA) averaging 12.9ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 39.9%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 83.6%, 11.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 74.0%, and 10.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 84.8%. He then played 2 seasons with Southern Methodist University (NCAA) averaging 13.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 81.8% and 13.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 85.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Chuck for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season overseas in Germany for Kirchheim. Did you go home for the Fiba break? I did go home. I live in Virginia. It was good to catch up with family and friends.
What kind of an experience has it been living in Germany? What have you learned to appreciate most about the culture? I have embraced it all, because it´s a lot different than America. The people took me in well. I´m more of a quiet guy, but I have come out of my shell somewhat. It helped me come out and do things out of my comfort zone.
You began the season with Crailsheim playing 3 Pro A games and winning each one averaging 9/1/2 stats in 15 minutes which was very efficient. Why did both sides go separate ways? Were there too many guards and you became the odd man out?
No it was mutual on both sides. I felt like I could get a better opportunity elsewhere. I have a lot of respect for the program, coaches and players. It was no love lost.
You moved to Kirchheim who are like Crailsheim a playoff team, but not a favorite like Crailsheim. What have you appreciated most about the organization? I had a previous history already with coach Igor Perovic before I had signed with Crailsheim. When I left Crailsheim, he called me right away. He sticks with me and allows me to figure things out. There are more young guys here and we gelled instantly.
You couldn´t have picked a better coach to play for than Igor Perovic who is a players coach. Do you have the needed freedom from him?
Igor is pretty reasonable, but has certain demands, but in return allows you to play your game. He has done a good job helping me get adjusted to the European game.
You had a 33 point explosion in Koblenz which I witnessed live. You seem to be that number 1 scoring option. Is that your role?
We have a really deep team with many guys that can put the ball in the hole in different ways. In Koblenz it was just my night with everyone feeding me. I just try to bring a spark off the bench and compete well against the top guards in the league. I just try to make the right plays and help my team win.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 188cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would fit the description best? I have been a small guard my whole life. I would say that the best comparison would be Devonte Graham
You’re a guy that fills the stat sheet well. Talk a little about your offensive game besides playmaking? I have a very high Iq. I think my biggest advantage is knowing what the game needs from me.
You shot over 40% from outside in your last 2 seasons at SMU. How would you describe the development of your three pointer at the moment? What are you focusing on most this season concerning your three pointer?
In college it was a lot different with 24 hour gym access as well as shooting machines and guys rebounding for you. Here you can´t always get into the gym. I´m focused most about giving my all in the gym and just continue to learn.
Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?
I´m a solid defender now, but still have room to grow. I have to work on my body more. I have a huge will to get better. Coach Igor also has stressed that I work on my defensive game.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player?
I want to become a winner. We have a really good team and I want to become that everyday guy in practice. I want to be that voice and give knowledge. I want to get that tag of being a winner overseas
You played at Butler (NCAA) from 2020-2023 averaging 11/2/2 stats. How did your game grow in those 3 years under Lavall Jordan?
He was one of the first coaches that reached out to me during the recruitment process. We had a really good connection from the start. He taught me the game well. He was a point guard coach. Aaron Thompson, Myles Tate and I would watch film for hours with him. He was really crucial in my early basketball development.
You played 2 seasons with Lituanian Simas Lukosius who got experience playing in Germany for Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. He made a big jump in your last year. How talented is this kid really?
He had a big frame at 6,5 or 6,6. He was super skilled and could make every pass. He was the first Euro player that I was able to play with at a high level. He was an eye opener to how much talent came from Europe. It was fun to paly with him in the back court.
You had many great games at Butler, but how big was the 70-69 win over Xavier were you netted the deciding free throws and scored 10 of your team´s last 13 points? Xavier was our rival. We were on a big stage at Madison Square Garden. We wanted to put on a show. We never wanted to lose to them. I watched the highlights again after the season. I´m not too keen on watching my own high lights.
You then finished at Southern Methodist University (NCAA) averaging 13.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 81.8% and 13.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 85.1%. How valuable were these last 2 years in your development? What kind of a player did you become there? This was the first time for me in a different system. I went there as a lead guard. It was a great experience. But I had to go through a coaching change. Both believed in me and allowed me to play my game. They also gave me another level of confidence.
In your senior year you nailed a buzzer beater trey from the corner for the exciting 54-52 win over Virginia. Did you know the shot was going in when you released it? That was a big game. I was ready for the shot and knew it was going in after the release.
You reached 2 NIT tournaments and in your last game lost 85-83 to OK State. Was that your toughest NCAA loss?
It was my last college game. It was bitter sweet. The loss didn´t hit me until a few weeks later. It was a very tough loss, but not my toughest.
How did coaches Rob Lanier and Andy Enfield groom and prepare you best for a professional career? They taught me ultra-confidence and to play my game. Both were great minds. It was a blessing to have been able to paly for them.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Zhuric Phelps? He is my guy. We had some real battles that went back and forth. You will have to ask him who won.
Who is the best player that you ever faced that reached the NBA? David Duke busted my butt once. Also the whole Duke team with Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? Myles Wilmoth, Chris Lykes, Jeremy Roach, Myles Stute, Tyreke Smith
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?
Leborn James. Kyrie Irving, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Kevin Durant
Who is your Goat? Lebron James
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I didn´t see it, but they should leave classics alone.
Austin Crowley (196-G-2000, college: Southern Miss) is a 25 year old 196cm guard from Mississippi playing his second professional season and first with the Bamberg Baskets currently averaging 8,7ppg, 3,5rpg, 1,6apg and 1,0spg. Last season he played with SCM CSU Craiova (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 17.2ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 58.7%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 79.3%. He began his basketball career at West Point high school and also played 2 years at Sunrise Christian academy. He then played 3 years at the University of Mississippi (NCAA) playing 90 games and then broke out at the University of Southern Mississippi (NCAA) averaging 16.0ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.6apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 74.5% and 16.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 41.5%, 3PT: 33.5%, FT: 75.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.
Thanks Austin for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing the Baskets Bamberg. In the press release you stated so many reasons why you chose this team. I enjoyed the saying that in Bamberg there is a unique culture and competition level. How challenging will this season be for you?
Just based on the research I have looked at with the history of the team and how dynamic they were, I knew that this was the perfect place for me to grow as a basketball player. I don’t think the challenge will be too much because of the amount of work I put in, as well as the great coaching staff and players that we have
Did former teammate Giordan Watson give you some pointers about the easyCredit BBL? Giordan is someone I look up to and when I was thinking about this he was all in and told me that this would be a great next step in my career. I value his opinion so I took the advice he gave me and went with my decision
Did you know how much history this organization has had? Guys like Casey Jacobsen, Darius Miller and Daniel Theis all won titles here. What does that history mean to you?
With the history of this team being winners, I hope to bring that same atmosphere to the city and team in hopes of being not only wins but trophies to the org Your new head coach Anton Gavel belongs to the rich Bamberg history. The guy has won countless titles. How did the talks go with him? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy? Talks with Coach Gavel were everything plus some. I know that he was a well established guard who has not only won in a team aspect but has many accomplishments as a player. I can’t wait to get to know him better and learn as much as I can from here
You had a productive rookie season in Romania, but the easyCredit BBL league is another step up. How confident are you that your game won’t only translate to this league, but that you will be able to make an impact?
I know the work that I put in, and the determination to be a great basketball player. Basketball is what I do and I plan to not only be productive as a player but show that I am one of the best young guards in Europe. With the great team that we are putting together I think that we can be a force in this league !
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?
I love to watch guys like Devin Booker, someone who can play off the ball as well as be a point guard. I like to get my guys going as well as establish myself as someone who is very aggressive getting down hill. I shoot the 3 pointer really well so teams have to respect me there as well
You play the position 2/3 and are a very versatile player. Were you always so versatile or did that come at the University of Southern Mississippi (NCAA)? My dad always taught me to be a Swiss army knife all my life so I think that I have always been versatile in a sense. As I got to Southern Miss, I was able to showcase my ability more and from there on I have gotten better each and every year and I’m thankful for my coaches staff at USM that pushed me to be who I am today as a basketball player
Your three pointer continues to grow the last 3 seasons. Is this the season that you reach the 40% plateau? What do you still need to do with your shooting to get there?
Yes I believe so! Last year I think I was around 39.5 and I continue to to keep working each and everyday. I don’t just strive for 40%, I’m hoping to shoot closer to 50%!
Your also a very aggressive defender. What kind of a defender are you right now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?
I’m someone who takes pride in defending, not only because it leads to easy buckets for my teammates, but also I just love competing! I think that’s why I love the game of basketball!
On what areas of your game are you working on most that you can continue to improve your game? I’m always working to improve my shooting because you can never be to great at shooting. This year I want to be more conditioned, and I want to improve on my passing. I think I get my guys involved a lot but I always think I can get better at it
Last season you played with SCM CSU Craiova (Romania-Liga National) averaging 17.2ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 58.7%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 79.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call overseas where you knew that you were far way from home? When I tried to call my parents and the time difference played a factor. It was something to get used to for sure
You were teammates with ultra veteran Giordan Watson who was a rookie in the BBL in 2008 and is going into his 18th season at age 40. Was he like a mentor for you even if he doesn’t play the same position? G was one of the best vets I could have asked for. Just by him allowing me to grow on the court as well as teach me things that I needed to know. He played a perfect balance and I think he helped pave my first year path to be much easier than I expected
You lost a tough playoff series against Oradea. What were the main reasons for not being able to win this series? They were able to make shots in certain situations down the stretch when we needed too. Also we let them speed up our tempo and that caused them to get easy fast break points which hurt us.
How cool was it being reunited with Sammy Hunter again overseas after being his teammate at The University of Mississippi ? Are you guys like brothers? I haven’t seen Sammy but that is my brother, we were in college together and I have a lot of love for each other.
After a great career at Sunrise Christian high school, you then played at the The University of Mississippi (NCAA) from 2019-2022. You had a different role than the last 2 years and got a lot less minutes. What memories will you always have of these 3 years and what positives did you get? I had some up and downs with The University of Mississippi, but I learned a lot and it helped me become who I am today as a basketball player, I have no regrets
You played against NCAA powerhouse Kentucky 3 times and scored 18 points in a big win against Georgia. What was your fondest moment at The University of Mississippi
Some of my best moments were winning games like that with your brothers on side of you. To will the team to a win in and setting like that is great
You then played 2 seasons at the University of Southern Mississippi (NCAA) averaging 16.0ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.6apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 74.5% and 16.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 41.5%, 3PT: 33.5%, FT: 75.5%. Was this the best basketball decision of your life?
I think that was the best decision for myself to grow as a man and as a player, I’m just thankful for the opportunity and that I took advantage of it.
You had many great games there like scoring 30 points against ODU and 30 points against App State. What was your fondest moment there? My best moment at Southern Miss would have to be winning the conference championship!
How did head coach Jay Ladner groom and prepare you best for a basketball career? He taught me a lot, not only his teaching was great but he has an excellent staff along side him that put the confidence in me to be great
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Donovan Ivory? I don’t lose in 1-1 haha
Who is the toughest player that you ever battled against on the court that reached the NBA? I don’t know I’ve played some great players and we competed at a high level each time we played
Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time? Mo Arnold, Donovan Ivory, Bree Tyree, Devante Shuler, Felipe Hasse
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?
Lebron, Joker, KD, Shai
Who is your GOAT? Lebron James
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone? No
Jonas Niedermanner (205-SF-1996) is a 29 year old 205cm forward playing his sixth Pro A season and first season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz averaging 7,7ppg, 3,5rpg, 1,4apg and 1,0spg. He has a lot of experience in the Pro A having played for MBC, Hanau, Schwenningen,Trier and Kirchheim and has more than 150 Pro A games experience. He began his career in the MBC organization where he played 6 easyCredit BBL games and also played with USC Leipzig and Sandersdorf. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.
Thanks Jonas for talking to germanhoops.com. We have a faint connection. I remember during the 2016-2017 season you played a game in Rhondorf losing 86-76 and scored 13 points. I called the game and pronounced your name wrong and one of your parents told a fan at game and they told me at half-time. I learned something from your parents. How important have they been for your career? Hey, thanks for having me. I actually remember that, because my Grandma was really upset and it kind of became a family inside joke. My family is the main reason I was even able to play basketball. The little village my family lives in doesn’t have a basketball team or even a court, so my basketball journey started with having to go to a different city to practice and play and my parents/grandparents had to drive me sit there at practice for 1,5/2h and take me back everyday. They never complained or told me they can’t make it. Even now when there is a chance to be there at a game they will be there. And I am really thankful for all of this.
Your 28 years old and have played for 8 teams and now 9 with the EPG Baskets. Did you envision yourself being more of a journeyman after your time in the MBC organization?
No actually not at all. I always envisioned myself more like a Sascha Leutloff, staying with MBC for what seemed like an eternity and maybe even having my Jersey retired and always staying in touch with that one club and one city. But live played out different and I am also thankful for that because I found my girlfriend and met so many great people and had amazing experiences. And you never know, because my dream is still there.
You have been a sold Pro A player now for 5 seasons. Is the easyCredit BBL still a goal for you? Why do you feel wasn´t the BBL in your cards as a player after MBC?
Yes the BBL was and is always the goal. It’s the highest German league and making it there is a huge accomplishment in my opinion. I think, when I was younger, I just took it for granted too much. Everything just always came pretty easy to me. I played Pro B with 14 years and everybody told me what great potential I had, and so it took me too long to understand just being good and giving 100% in practice isn’t even enough for me to get to that goal and I have to invest more than that, but when that realization, that it’s not somebody from the outside hindering me or keeping me back, I was already like 21/22 years old.
Your starting a new challenge with the EPG Baskets. What were the main reasons why you joined this ambitious organization? Was their huge team goals a reason?
The main reason were the talks with Coach Stephan. I had a good connection with him right from the first talk and the things he told me about his visions for the team and the style of basketball he wants to play really resonated with me. And I wanted to be a part of his vision. Plus I saw who they already had signed and that was a clear sign that the club puts an emphasis on also signing great characters. I think that’s the most important thing for being successful in whatever way. I believe we can really become a team where everybody wants to fight for each other and make everybody around him better.
How did the talks go with Stephan Dohrn? He really likes your team play?
We didn’t need many talks, which I think shows we had a good connection from the beginning. I think he liked my defense the most, being able to guard multiple positions and taking pride in guarding the opponents top scorer plus we really fast agreed on basketball is most beautiful when a group of guys embrace playing as group, like the 2014 Spurs, with great ball movement and giving up good looks for a better look.
What instantly did you appreciate most about Stephan Dohrn´s basketball philosophy? Like I said the basketball as a team topic was great. And I think he knows we don’t have to invent basketball completely new. There are so many ways to be successful, the main thing will be getting everybody on the same page in almost every Situation.
You have never averaged more than 8,0ppg in the Pro A. Is this season a personal goal of yours to have a breakout offensive season or will you be content having the kind of roles you have had the last years in the Pro A? I never really looked at my stats. I want to be a part of team and just fit in where we need help the most, which also made me a lot of times to passive. And I don’t think that helps anybody. My Main Focus will be being a great defender on all positions and be more aggressive and more consistent offensively, but I won´t be looking at my Points to be an indicator for that, because its more than that. I am Confidence that I can be a Great Part in our offense.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 205ccm forward. If you had to compare your game to a Euroleague or German player who would it be?
I am a big Fan of Tadas Sedekerskis from Baskonia (Also the reason they are my Favorite EuroLeague Team). He does everything on the Court and is a great leader. He doesn’t need 15 points to stand out. He can score 15 without a doubt but it´s all the little things he influences that amaze me and make me want to Play like that.
You’re a versatile player that can guard many positions. Talk a little about your strengths on the offensive end? My versatility and IQ. And Like I said in the past I thought to much about „oh yeah I am kind of open but if I shoot now…“ plus a struggle with my confidence made me to indecisive. Last year especially in the beginning I did a way better job, because I know for example how good I can shoot off movement. I am practicing every day and I showed it last season when I move before I shoot it helps me think less and just do.
Your three pointer continues to be a work in progress. You have never shot higher than 34% in the Pro A. How realistic is it still for you to reach 40% in a season?
I think I can do it or get really close. I have done it in multiple Season for stretches also last year in the Playoffs with the little time I was allowed on the Court. It’s a mental thing. I doubt myself to quick and then I want to make the next Shot so bad It puts so much more pressure on myself. I think about every Little Detail on my Shot and what is not Perfect instead of just shooting without having a thought.
Talk a little about the development of your defense in the last years. Your flexible and give your team good energy. What kind of defender do you still want to become?
I want to be even more talkative, especially when I am put on the weak side just being louder telling the others what’s happening behind them. And staying away from overaggressive stupid fouls keeping my distance because I am probably taller and longer than my opponent and can still pressure without getting beat. And Rebounding I do think I box out a lot but I can still make an extra effort to pursue the ball after boxing out.
On what areas of your game are you working hardest on now so you can continue to improve your game?
3 things: Shooting is the thing I practice the most right now, because no matter what you have to be able to shoot the ball and my condition, because it keeps u healthy and on the court. And last ball handling to be more confident to just handle the ball in every situation.
You played the last 2 years in Kirchheim. You were an important role player as always and was consistent. How vital was Igor Perovic in your development in this time? Would you say these 2 years were probably your best 2 seasons in the Pro A statwise?
Igor was one of the best coaches for me. He was always straight forward in what he sees in somebody and how we could get there. And if you ever had a question about anything basketball he had the answer and explained in a way everyone understood in a great positive way. I am really really thankful for the two years in Kirchheim and it was just a good time especially when a lot of guys stayed and we pushed Hagen to Game 5.
You played a season in Trier averaging 17 minutes. What memories do you have of this season and losing to Leverkusen in the playoffs? Trier will I think always be the most special time in my career. We had such a unique and special group that just clicked right from the start and we went through everything together and we were so talented. On the other side I had my personal struggles with depressions and had to go to hospital for a month. So yeah a lot of great people and great times but also a lot of darkness thinking back.
You also played a season in Schwenningen averaging 8.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 73.3%. How important was this season coming from the Pro B and showing you could be a good player in the Pro A? How vital was Alen Velcic in giving you the needed freedom to shine?
Hahahah yeah Schwenningen was definitely an experience. Alan said right from the beginning everybody is going to eat shit but if you put in the work you will get a chance and he kept his word on those things. He gave me the chance to move and it showed me yes I can be good in Pro A and maybe even be great with a lot of work. So being there was important for my view of myself. And getting to know Coach Nadfeji and being able to work with him was incredible in every aspect of professionalism and basketball
You played a season with the Ebbecke White Wings Hanau (ProB) averaging 8.7ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.0apg, Blocks-5 (1.0bpg), FGP: 47.7%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 81.3%. How vital was veteran Josef Eichler in your basketball development at that time? What could you learn from him best? Hahahah I loved playing with Josef not in practice but he had that stoic calmness about him, which made him be a great leader for us without having to constantly talk or being appreciated for what he did. And you knew what his opponent had to go through and how bruised they became because he did the same everyday in practice and all of us realized what physicality really meant and how to use it.
You played a long time in the MBC organization playing also for Leipzig and Sandersdorf. Did you have a special kind of mentor in your early days? Yes Jaro Tyrna was my first vet and he helped me a lot. He made me understand that first of all nobody cares how old you are. When you want to play professional nobody will say oh no he is only 13 lets take it easy on him. No it’s sport you want to be part than you have to be ready.
You played 6 BBL games including against Alba Berlin and played 8 minutes in total. What was your fondest moment in the BBL?
Playing in Bamberg. We are down 30 and coach puts me in. I was so surprised to even make the trip. I never thought he would put me in. Bamberg has always been my favorite team and playing there in front of freak city was amazing and then I get the ball drive by Luca Steiger and get absolutely hacked by Ricky Hickmann. I make one freet hrow so I am on an absolut ehigh. A couple posessions later I get the ball in the corner and just shoot and It goes in. It was like a dream. I was so happy but couldn’t show it because we were down 30. And then the game is over and all of a sudden I see my family in the crowd. I had no idea… My mom had tears in her eyes and my Dad had that big awesome smile and it will always be a memory that will stick with me.
In Leipzig you were teammates with ex BBL player Sascha Leuloff. How much of an impact did the ex Alba Berlin player have on your early basketball development? He was the guy I looked up to the most. Just the perfect example of being a pro and a loyal great human.
You also got some experience playing with the BSW Sixers. How was this time playing for Thomas Grepl? Thomas and I really didn’t match. It was a bad experience for me. He told me not to shoot because he thought I couldn’t shoot and basically told me when I catch the ball to just pass it to the next guy. It took all the fun away from basketball and took all my confidence away.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Ferenc Gille?
I have to say I won every single game. And I am sure he says the same that he won every game. Hahahah I miss the guy always fun when I had the chance to see and play him.
What was your favorite game in your career in the Pro A and Pro B? Game 3 last year in Hagen. We needed a guy to step up and I just did. The whole team and everybody was just happy and it was just amazing.
Who is the toughest player that you ever battled that reached the NBA?
I think I played Dennis Schröder once in NBBL. He showed up 10 minutes before Tipp Off. I think a bag of chips in his hands. And just killed out whole team with 30/10/10 in like 20 minutes.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Dimi Ward
Melkisedek Moureaux
Chris Frazier
Enosch Wolf
Garai Zeeb
Please list your personal Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time?
Shane Battier Andre Igoudala Dirk Nowitzki Sascha Nadfeji
Jaleen Smith (190-PG-1994, college: UNH) is a 31year old 190cm guard playing his 9th professional season and first with Turk Telekom Ankara (Turkey-BSL). He played the first 6 professional seasons with the MLP Academics, MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg and Alba Berlin. Last season he played with Bahcesehir Koleji Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) averaging 9.8ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 81.5%; and in the Eurocup averaged 12.4ppg, 2.7rpg, APG-4 (5.5), 1.1spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT-15 (96.0%). In the 2023-2024 season he split time with Virtus Segafredo Bologna (Italy-Serie A) averaging 6.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 30.8%: and in the Euroleague averaged 5.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 2FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 48.3%, FT: 87.5%:, in Dec.’23 moved to KK Partizan Mozzart Bet Beograd (Serbia-KLS) averaging 9.3ppg, 1.3rpg, 2FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 47.1%, FT: 75.0%. He began his basketball career with / Brazosport High School and then played 4 years at the University of New Hampshire (NCAA). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a World Cup qualifying game against Germany.
Thanks Jaleen for talking to germanhoops.com. It´s been a while since we last did an interview. 3,5 years to be exact when you played for Alba Berlin. Has time flown by for you?
Yes a little bit. I played 6 years in Germany for 3 teams and 2 years each with one team. The last 3 years, I was always on another team each season and even with 2 teams in one season. I´m happy in Ankara now and hope to stick around for another season there. But every place I have been since Germany has been a good experience.
In the 2023-2024 season you split time with Virtus Segafredo Bologna (Italy-Serie A) averaging 6.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 30.8%: and in the Euroleague averaged 5.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 2FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 48.3%, FT: 87.5%:, in Dec.’23 moved to KK Partizan Mozzart Bet Beograd (Serbia-KLS) averaging 9.3ppg, 1.3rpg, 2FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 47.1%, FT: 75.0%. How tough was this season? It was the first time in your career that you played for 2 teams in a season, but you did win the Suoer Cup in Italy.
Winning the Super Cup was nice. Winning that first title right away out of Germany was cool. But after that the season had a downward spiral for me. The coach wasn´t focused on me. I began well, but then didn´t play for 2 months. Then I played again at the end of March. It felt good. That season was a good learning experience. I got more hungry.
In Italy you were teammates with Marco Bellinelli who was at the end of his career. How enriching was it playing with him? Did he show the finer sides of Italian culture? He didn´t show me the finer sides of Italiam culture, but he demonstrated amazing shooting. I remember watching him with the Spurs. What he did there, he also did overseas. I never saw a player shoot as well as he did. He was simply an amazing shooter.
In Serbia you were teammates with Kevin Punter. He like you had to pay his dues early on, but then reached the Euroleague. Did you guys bond well during the last months just because you had a similiar type of journey?
We didn´t talk much about our journeys. He is a very high level player. I looked up to him and tried to learn as much as possible like his work ethic.
You have played for many coaches in your life, but how was legend Zeljko Obradovic. What message did you get from him? With him it was all about details. I tried to soak in as much as possible. You short take nothing, but just work straight forward.
Last season you played with Bahcesehir Koleji Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) averaging 9.8ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 81.5%; and in the Eurocup averaged 12.4ppg, 2.7rpg, APG-4 (5.5), 1.1spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT-15 (96.0%). You reached the Eurocup Final 4. What will you always remember from that tough 3 game series against Gran Canaria?
We could of won game 2, but instead lost to force game 3. We were up 2 points with 2 seconds to go. They did a back door and we fouled and they got a and one and won the game. That game is haunting to this day.
This season your playing in Turkey again with Turk Telekom. Your displaying your consistency once again as you have since day in the pro A in Germany. What is your secret to staying consistent despite getting older? I just stay consistent with my work. I´m working the hardest now than I ever did in my career. I train hard with no days off.
Your 31 years old and in your ninth season. Are you in your prime and how much longer do you still want to play? I hope to play 5-6 more years. I will evaluate then how my booy is feeling and decide with my family
Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Kyle Allman? I will win.
Jaleen Smith (190-PG-1994, college: UNH) is a 31 year old 190cm guard playing his 9th professional season and first with Turk Telekom Ankara (Turkey-BSL). He played the first 6 professional seasons with the MLP Academics, MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg and Alba Berlin. Last season he played with Bahcesehir Koleji Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) averaging 9.8ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 81.5%; and in the Eurocup averaged 12.4ppg, 2.7rpg, APG-4 (5.5), 1.1spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT-15 (96.0%). In the 2023-2024 season he split time with Virtus Segafredo Bologna (Italy-Serie A) averaging 6.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 30.8%: and in the Euroleague averaged 5.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 2FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 48.3%, FT: 87.5%:, in Dec.’23 moved to KK Partizan Mozzart Bet Beograd (Serbia-KLS) averaging 9.3ppg, 1.3rpg, 2FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 47.1%, FT: 75.0%. He began his basketball career with / Brazosport High School and then played 4 years at the University of New Hampshire (NCAA). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a World Cup qualifying game against Germany.
Thanks Jaleen for talking to germanhoops.com. Your in Croatia at the moment preparing for World Cup qualifying games against Germany. You got Croatian citizenship in August 2022. How much has this enriched your life on and off the court?
It has been so enriching on and off the court. I bought a place in Zagreb last summer. My daughter was born in Croatia. The Croatian basketball federation has been great since day 1. They made the transition for me so easy. I have had 3 coaches since I arrived in 2022. I think like we have more stability now. It all feels like a family here. It really feels like your in a regular club atmosphere with family. This was definitely the best choice I could have done for picking a country to play for.
You have had many great games in a Croatian jersey over the last years. What was your fondest moment so far?
I think it was in the Olympic qualifying tournament against Greece, even if we lost. It was so crazy playing against guys like Luka Doncic and Giannis. You play against top NBA players that you normally wouldn´t play against. You also played against more unknown guys from national teams that you would normally play against. It was overall a great experience.
How do you feel different playing with a Croatian jersey then you would with a USA jersey?
I feel really honored to be able to play for Croatia. I´m the only import on the team. They must have brought me here for a reason. Every day I wonder why did they chose me?. They could of found a better option. Maybe I´m here because of my character and locker room qualities.
How is the state of Croatian basketball? You played at tournaments the lasty ears like the Euro and Olympics, but won no medals. Is there concern in the Croatian basketball community?
I believe there is concern in the media. We are trying to make it back on to the national stage. We missed the Euro last year and now are taking it one step at a time. We aren´t concerned about what the media is saying. We want to present ourselves in the best way possible for the country.
What will it mean for you to play against Germany for the first time? The place where your illustrious pro career began back in 2017?
It is a crazy feeling playing against Germany. I will be playing against former teammates and guys I played against in Germany. It will be nice to see guys like Mattisseck, Olinde, Schneider and Thiemann again and be able to catch up with them. I have 2 loves. Germany was my first home and Croatia is my main home.
If someone had told you in August 2022 that in 4 years Germany would be World champion, and Euro champion what would you have thought?
I knew how Germany´s status was in 2022 shortly before winning the Bronze at the Euro, but I still would never have thought they would win so much in a short time. I would have predicted USA, France or Serbia. They have produced really good player sin the last year and basketball has grown so much in Germany. They have guys dominating in the NBA and even if they aren´t playing in these windows, there are other guys holding up the standard.
Obviously the Germans have had great players the last years, but how much is discipline and their mentality a part of the success? They have been consistent the last few years and successful and that has made them be locked in at all times. They know that they are good, but they won´t get out of character. Everybody knows their roles. You have to give a lot of credit to Gordon Herbert. He forced his players to play the right way. Mumbru´s style is good while they still have the discipline.
What is your impression of the German roster? Obviously there aren´t any of the NBA guys there. You have faced off against so many of these guys the last years?
I have played against all of them. The roster is good. They have a few Euroleague and Eurocup players. They still have high quality guys. Even if there are some young guys, you still need to respect them.
What will it be like seeing and playing against Jonas Mattissek? What kind of an relationship did you have back in the day?
He was a great teammate that brought you shooting and much intensity on defense. I´m excited to play against him again and see how his game has evolved in the last years.
You also were teammates with Johannes Thiemann, Louis Olinde and Tim Schneider. If you look back on the years with them, with what guy did you have the best relationship with?
I think it was Tim Schneider. He was a real good dude. I still have contact to this day. He is out of Germany for the first time in Japan. His wife is Croatian. It will be fun to chop it up again with him.
The German guards of the future look really good with Christian Anderson, but also Jack Kayil who will go to play in the NCAA and is touted for a possible NBA draft pick. What do you know about him?
I played against him in pre season when he was with Mega. He is pretty good. He had no big role with Mega, but now he runs the offense in Berlin. I will be probably matched up against him. I´m looking forward to it.
The Croatian team is very experienced. They are deep at the bigs and have a big talent with Roko Prkacin. What other talents should one be on the watch for in the future?
We have some young guys coming up the ranks. One of those is Michael Ruzic. He is a NBA prospect. He had a good showing in the last window. Now he has the opportunity to go up against some quality bigs with Germany.
How important is it having Dario Saric on board from the NBA? He seems to have put the NBA on the back burner and will play in Europe now?
It´s big time. Usually he was only available in the summer, but now we have in also other windows. I hope he goes back to the NBA, but if not better for us. It is good that he is back in Croatia now and is happy.
Mario Hezonja is such a special player. What have you learned to appreciate the most about his game over the years? Mario is a dog. He is really good with Real Madrid, but when he is with the national team, he is a different beast. He odes it all for us.
Germany likes too play fast under Spanish head coach Alex Mumbru. What kind of a game can we await and what will be key to winning both games?
Germany has that Spanish style and will try to push it. We have to focus on keeping it in the half-court. Germany brings toughness and we will have to match it and rebound well.
You will return to Bonn on Sunday. What was your fondest moment in the Telekom Dome?
I remember the TJ Shorts team. They did us dirty. I remember we beat the Parker Jackson-Cartwright team. I can remember the arena atmosphere. I won´t forget it.
Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Goran Filipovic?
I think Goran will win. He is so fast and can shoot.
Robbie Beran (206-F-2000, college: Virginia Tech) is a 26 year old 206cm forward from Richmond, Virginia playing his second pro season and first in Portugal with FC Porto averaging 8,5ppg, and 4,4rpg. He began the season with the Niners Chemnitz averaging 8,5ppg, 2,8rpg and 1,3apg. Last season he played his rookie season with House of Talents Kortrijk Spurs averaging 9.4ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.1apg, Blocks-5 (1.3bpg), FGP: 42.1%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 76.6% in the BNXT League. He began his basketball career at Collegiate school and then played at Northwestern Universtiy (NCAA) from 2019-2023 playing a total of 120 games. He played one more season with Virginia Tech University (NCAA) averaging 5.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 78.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.
Thanks Robbie for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with the Niners Chemnitz. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?
First and foremost, thank you. I am extremely grateful and excited about the opportunity presented by the Niners! A tid bit of information that many people might not know is that I have extensive German roots. My maternal grandfather was August William Steinhilber, Jr., whose family hails from Baden-Württemberg. While I have always known of my mom’s German heritage, it is just within the past few years where I have really begun to look into my lineage and discovered how much German blood I have. After signing with the Niners, I jokingly told my family that I might have to go by Robbie Steinhilber in the hopes of earning a more favorable whistle!
Beyond my personal connection through family roots, I have developed a strong appreciation for Germany—not only for its rich culture and deep history, but also for its growing influence on the global basketball stage. I know the BBL is widely respected as one of the top leagues in Europe. The level of competition, quality of coaching, and the development of local and international talent speaks volumes about the strength and professionalism of German basketball.
Another thing that truly stands out to me is the incredible fan base across the league. Even though I just recently became a Niner, I’ve already felt the support online and through conversation – it is clear that basketball holds a real and growing presence in the country. I’m genuinely excited to get to Germany, embrace the culture, and get to work to help win games and bring a championship back to Chemnitz!
You had many reasons for joining the Niners Chemnitz like playing for a great coach with Rodrigo Pastore, playing internationally, having great fans and living in a historic city. How important was to you to have John Newman on board? As you noted there were numerous reasons for joining the Niners. This is a place that checked a lot of my boxes, in a good situation to be able to continue to develop both on and off the court. While John is a great player and dear friend, and it will definitely be fun to share the court with him again, his being on the team was not a deciding factor. In fact, I did not really make the connection until after I decided to sign. With that said, John and I have great chemistry together on the court, and I am looking forward to playing with him again this season.
You have that winning mentality. How big do you see your leadership having a role for a new team that has won well the last years?
For me, winning is not just a goal; it is what fuels me. And I try to contribute in whatever way necessary to win. Of course, it is great when it’s your night and you got things rolling. But on nights when shots just aren’t falling, I focus on what else I can do to impact winning. And that is what I plan on doing with the Niners. For example, I have been told that I have a high basketball IQ. Regardless of what it is called, I try to have it benefit the entire team. And, I have a pretty vocal voice. You do not have to be a vet or captain to lead. You just have to have the mentality and team focus. I know that I can lead every single day through actions as well as voice. Of course, I will want to figure out the ropes but, once I settle in, I see me just being myself.
How did the talks go with head coach Rodrigo Pastore? What did you instantly appreciate about his basketball philosophy?
From the initial conversation with coach Pastore I knew that we possessed a similar basketball philosophy. In a nutshell, basketball is a simple game that requires focus and discipline. We talked about versatility within the game and how he sees my ability to impact the game on both ends. Yet, along with my strengths, coach pointed out how I needed to improve to be successful at this level. I appreciated his candor – I am not a finished product; there is still a lot that I can learn, and I think coach Pastore is someone that can help me reach that next gear.
Scoring isn´t everything. An interesting stat I noticed was that from your first year of college until now, you never averaged more than 10,0ppg. What kind of a role do you expect having with the Niners? As I mentioned before, winning is the only thing that matters when I step on the floor. My role can change from night to night- but what will not change is my energy and effort on a consistent basis. Those are two things that I can and will control daily.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 206cm power forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I’m not sure there is one person that I attempt to emulate. While watching the NBA there are a few guys that I have particularly watched to see how they use their body to create space, footwork, and different positioning. If I had to throw out a comp, I would point to Dario Saric and Boris Diaw, given their versatility on both ends of the court. It’s a tad ironic that these are two Europeans but growing up I was always told that my game would thrive out here. I take pride in making right reads, not forcing on the offensive end, and being active/engaged. These things might not pop or scream out with just a glance at statistics; but, watch tape and you will see the aspects of my game that do not pop on the stat sheet.
You love to take the three and love to defend, but are so much more than just having that 3 and D label. What other strengths does your game have?
I would like to think that I am an underrated playmaker. Using my size to not only see over the defense but to also have the versatility at my position allows for more wrinkles and just more ways to keep the defense off balance. I also open up the floor for my teammates to take advantage of the space I created. On defense I think my ability to wall up and not only block shots but also alter them is something that might be overlooked. This includes my ability to guard any position of the floor. Using my size to contain and keep quicker defenders in front but then also length and speed to frustrate an individual who might have the raw size advantage.
Your three pointer is a huge part of your game. How have you seen the development of your three pointer up to now? What do you still need to do to become a stable 40% shooter from outside?
The development of my three ball is something that’s been in the works since I was a child. One of my earliest “three memories” is pulling up in rec ball and my dad (who was the coach at the time) would say “NOOO” but couldn’t say anything after I drained it. As a high school freshman, I was solely a catch and shoot guy. Every offseason I would try to add a new little piece to my game. For example, sophomore year I added a one dribble pull up for when the defense came with a hard close out. And, this step-by-step improvement has continued to be my philosophy – constantly add little bits to my game. I always aim to get 1% better every single day.
You have taken a little more than half of all your shots from outside in your career. How vital is being a 3 level scorer for you? I think that’s something that I am always trying to improve upon. The moment you become one dimensional, you become easy to guard.
Talk a little about your defensive game. You were the fifth best shot blocker in Belgium last season. Where do you see your defensive game at the moment and where do you still want to take your defensive game to?
Fifth? I would beg to differ with that placement… haha. Early in the season, guys challenged me on the break and ended up regretting taking it to the rim on me. But, slowly overtime when the word got out, it seemed to me that guys would stop their break and not challenge me at the rim. Our style and my position did not warrant me sitting in the paint, hunting blocks. And that hurt my chances for the block crown. But I maintain that I halted drives and altered numerous shots -items that do not show up on the stats. But, thanks for pointing out that I was 5th because you further motivated me to improve that aspect of my game. I also want to be more active on the defensive glass. I often boxed out an area but want to be more aggressive on reeling in the ball.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
I am far from a finished product. In fact, I want to improve every aspect of my game by at least 1% every day. Yet, there are certain areas that need additional focus. For example, driving and finishing strong at the rim is something that I must better incorporate into my game day performance – not just at practice. Using my bounce to grab more rebounds is another aspect of my game that needs extra focus.
You played your rookie season overseas with the House of Talents Kortrijk Spurs averaging 9.4ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.1apg, Blocks-5 (1.3bpg), FGP: 42.1%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 76.6% in the BNXT league. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you that you were far away from home? You will quickly learn that I am very candid. While not related to my stats, laundry was a proverbial wakeup call to the reality of life for me. After leaving the bubble that is the NCAA, I realized just how extensive the hand holding was for almost every aspect of college life, as well as how spoiled we were in so many ways. And one of the biggest life wake up calls was, of all things, laundry! I went 5 years without doing a single loop. So, the rookie Robbie had to quickly adjust – I had to do my practice and game loops every day… with NO DRYER! It became part of my daily routine – practice, come home, put my laundry in the washer, eat, hang laundry up to dry and repeat and repeat and repeat.
You played at Northwestern University (NCAA) from 2019-2023 playing a total of 120 games. How did you experience your 4 years there? What memories do you of reaching March Madness in 2023? I could talk endlessly about my time and experience at Northwestern. I cherish all the memories and relationships built in Evanston. I grew not only as a player but also as person. It was the first time being away from home- 800 miles away. It may sound cliché but it’s genuine – the NU community became my second family. Northwestern, and the bonds I established there, hold a special place in my heart.
How vital was head coach Chris Collins in your 4 years there? How did he help you become the player that you are today?
Coach Collins contributed significantly to my growth as a basketball player and person. The man I am today is a large part attributable to him – both on and off the court. He allowed and encouraged all of his players to grow. Early in my freshman/ sophomore years, we (as a team) were young. We had to learn how to “win games”- meaning learn the smarts of how to close games. How to put teams away so they don’t have life but then also resilience to battle back and apply some game pressure on the flip side. Numerous times there would be a possession or two that would cost us the game. Everyone always talks about the last 2 minutes of a game. But Coach Collins helped instill the importance of every possession. A defensive lapse early in the game can kickstart an opponent to have a career night. Sloppiness running a set is an opportunity missed. For the most part games are won or lost in the details. During my junior year we started to piece things together. But not quite enough. But for a few bad bounces here and there, we likely would have made the tournament. But that wasn’t the case- we missed the dance by a few games. That was also the year that I graduated undergrad. And I had some outside voices telling me to transfer and all that. But I truly believed in the vision and how far we had come. We were right there; we just needed to get over the hump by working hard, believing in ourselves, being there for each other, and trusting the coaches and the process. And I knew we could do it. So, I ignored all the transfer advocates, and worked hard, believed in my God given abilities, was there for my teammates, and trusted the coaches and the process, all of which was rewarded with a March Madness dance!
How much of a role model is Pat Spencer in general? You played a season with him? He played in the BBL with Hamburg and a few years later reached the NBA
Pat and I played one season together. A main thing I took away from that year with Pat was how passion can elevate one’s game. Let’s face it, Pat was the GOAT in college lacrosse and could have been the GOAT in professional lacrosse. But, his first love was basketball, so he gave up lacrosse to pursue a basketball career. Pat was passionate about every aspect of the game that year. And he pushed all of his teammates, including me, to be passionate as well. With Pat at the point, we played fearlessly with great conviction.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Pete Nance?
We never really played ones but regularly matched up in practice. In the early years, Pete would kick my ass. If I was late on a rotation or helped in too much, he’d make me pay by knocking down an open shot. But I was able to learn and grow, and ultimately his shots were more and more contested and made less frequently; and I hit my fair share of shots against Pete. I’d like to think we challenged each other, making the other one an even better player. Pete is a great person on and off the court. I will always be a fan of Pete; he is like a brother to me.
You then played a fifth season with Virginia Tech University (NCAA) averaging 5.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 78.8%. You reached the NIT Sweet 16. How key was this extra season for your basketball game?
The fifth season helped me grow in a unique way. Having been granted an extra year of NCAA eligibility because of COVID, it was a no brainer for me to use that in the states in a way to help me prepare for a professional career. I knew professional ball overseas would be there for me the next year. And I wanted to use the extra collegiate year to prepare for my transition to professional basketball. Candidly, I was comfortable at Northwestern; I had been there for four years. It’s what I knew. Yet, I also knew I needed to step out of that comfort zone- similar to how I would have to enter new locker-rooms and adjust to new programs in a professional career. So, that’s exactly what I did. I entered the Virginia Tech locker room with a great group of guys. Virginia Tech was wonderful, allowing me to come back to my home state of Virginia and play in close proximity to family and friends. I am grateful that Coach Young and his staff gave me that opportunity.
Who was the toughest player that you faced in your career that reached the NBA?
Most likely, the toughest player that I personally faced that reached the NBA would be Keegan Murray, Zach Edey, or Ayo Dosunmu.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Boo Buie
Brooks Barnhizer
Chase Audige
Pete Nance
Armando Bacot
Please list your NBA Rushmore of past or present heads?
Whenever I come across my name somewhere, I always take notice. I mean the name Miles is simply not a common name. I have come across my own name about 5 times in my life. I remember interviewing American baller Miles Mallory when he was playing his rookie season in Germany with the Seeburg College Wizards Karlsruhe (Germany-Regionalliga) back in the 2023-2024 season. Recently I was observing social media and saw a nasty poster dunk, but it wasn´t the usual NBA video of a Victor Wembanyama or Anthony Edwards one, but from a German-American player named Myles Howell who is balling in the second Regionalliga for the Baskets Limburg. The dunk was addicting and I had to watch it over and over. Then I saw his name Myles in the link which added that extra interest. I mean my name doesn´t always have to be spelled Miles, but Myles is just as nice. Has he ever come across the name Miles in his life? “At first when you texted me I thought you had mixed up names. It was really unusual coming across another person with my name even if one letter is different. I have heard people that have our name, but you are the first person I have met with the same name”, stated Myles Howell (190-G-2005) His lethal dunk reminded me a bit of a young Henning Harnisch flying through the air as he destroyed the rim. Was the pulsating poster in Limburg his best dunk in his career? “I wouldn´t say it was my best in my career but top 5 for sure. I remember having some nice dunks when I was 15 or 16. I remember having 2 poster dunks at a 3 X3 tournament and one of them was really great”, stressed Myles Howell
pic credit: Zibart.de
Myles Howell who lists Hannes Steinbach, Phil Flowers, Tom Arkan and Dusan Nikolic as his toughest foes so far in his basketball career was born on September 26th, 2005. At first look at his name, one would think another American playing in the Regionalliga 2, but after inspection of his Eurobasket profile, there was a German flag next to his nationality. How does a German have such an English name? His dad is American and mother German which is where the hook is. His Dad is from the Atlanta area from Stockridge and mother is from Friedberg. His parents met in Friedberg when his dad was stationed in Friedberg serving the American army. Myles also lived in the States and in Spain. He began his basketball career in Friedberg and then played 3 seasons in Hanau. He played in the NBBL (U-19) and Regionalliga. “Before moving to play in Hanau basketball was easy for me. I didn´t have to think a lot. Hanau was a higher league and I needed more preparation. I had one of the best coaches in my career with Marti Zamora-Mas. He understood basketball 100%. Whatever he said always made so much sense. He was a genius”, warned Myles Howell In his first season as a teenager he averaged 4/2/1 stats in 16 minutes and had some great teammates with veteran Cedric Quarshie and young German Luca Eibelshauser playing in the Pro B now for TV Langen. Were they like early mentors for him? “Cedric definitely was. He taught me to always give 100%. Other vital teammates at that time were Tom Arkan who taught me that you don´t have to be the fastest but just have your own controlled tempo and Valentin Konstantinov was a big who taught me to play with my head”, remembered Myles Howell
Myles Howell guarding NBA prospect Hannes Steinbach
The athletic forward who lists Justin Stallbohm, Tom Arkan, Phil Flowers, Elijah Allen and Valentin Konstantinov as his 5 best teammates of all-time decided for a change in 2024 when he signed with Regionalliga team Baskets Limburg. When the Hanau organization folded, he looked for a new challenge. He had had some training sessions with former pro A player Elijah Allen and he then performed at an open gym in Limburg and head coach Danny Stallbohm saw his play and the rest is history. The first season was tough as he had a long 2 hour train commute from Friedberg to Limburg. Plus he wasn´t integrated that well yet. However in his second season has been a lot better. He has built nice relationships and has found a role on the court. “I play the 3, but can also play the 4. I´m the fastest on the team. I am more off ball on offense and love to run transition and guard the other team´s best player”, stated Myles Howell He has found a good coach with Danny Stallbohm who gives him something every player always wants on the court. “Coach is old school. Every coach has their own philosophy. It is different but something that I have gotten used to. But he gives me a lot of freedom which I like. If you give 100% on the court and show that you want it more than the opponent, then you get minutes”, added Myles Howell He also has the ultimate teammate with Justin Stallbohm who is the team captain and has one of the most infectious smiles ever seen in Limburg. “Justin is very positive and always upbeat and a funny guy. He is the oldest on the team which is very unusual for him. He has a lot of experience. Even if he isn´t looking at you, he always finds you on the court. I always know I will get the ball. He gives good advice as well”, commented Myles Howell
pic credit: Zibart.de
So what kind of game does the young man have who lists his NBA Mount Rushmore with Steph Curry, Lebron James, Anthony Edwards, Wemby and Jokic, his Euroleague Mount Rushmore with Alperen Sengun, Mike James, Giannis, Kemba Walker and Kendrick Nunn and German Mount Rushmore with Franz Wagner, Dennis Schroeder, Dirk Nowitzki, Andi Obst and Isaac Bonga is a player that has difficulty comparing his game to someone else. His mom always tells him to be the fastest and give the most energy on the court. He enjoys watching videos of NBA players Marcus Smart and Kawhi Leonard. His speed is his biggest strength that helps him at both ends of the court. “I have a long wing span that really helps me on defense to get steals. Opponents tend to underestimate my length. My jumping ability also helps me and I have good endurance which allows me to hold up the tempo for a very long time”, stressed Myles Howell His athleticism also plays a big role in his game which he proved the other night with his poster dunk against Kronberg. “My athleticism was always there. I trained my athleticism a lot when I was 15-16 and got injured. Doing that made me prone for injuries so I decided not to train my athleticism as much the last years with the fear of getting injured again. But I have noticed that I haven´t lost any of my athleticism with less training”, expressed Myles Howell He obviously wants to keep climbing the basketball ladder and knows what part of his game is at most suspect at the moment. “I grew quickly when I was younger. I was a big and didn´t have to shoot as much so I didn´t work on my shot as much. Now I need to work on my shot if I want to become more effective”, said Myles Howell When he isn´t flying through the air and finishing with authority on the basketball court, he is studying electric machine construction and also is giving back and helping the youth as a U-14 basketball coach. But he still has a goal as basketball player. “I want to be able to play at the highest level”, warned Myles Howell One thing is for sure, it is always worth a trip to Limburg to see the crazy athleticism that Myles Howell possesses.
German Hoops 