Brandon Chappell is a 26 year old 183cm guard from Beaumont, Texas. He is a up tempo floor general that makes smart decissions on the floor. Can really shoot the three but great at getting to the basket. Played with NBA Champion Kendrick Perkins of the Boston Celtics in High School where they won the Class 4A state championship. He played at Lamar from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 32 games averaging 8.4ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 38.6%, 3Pts: 39.5%, FT: 59.1%. In his first three seasons as a professional he has played in Germany. In 2007-2008, he played for BBC Bayreuth (Germany-ProA): 30 games: 7.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 47.3%, 3FGP: 31.1%, FT: 75.0%. In 2008-2009, he moved to TV Langen playing 23 games: 14.5ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 78.3%. Last season for TV Langen, he played 29 games: 11.5ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 81.8%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.
It is almost September and you are still unsigned. How difficult is it not having a team?
It is difficult because I am used to being on a team by now. The way I see it I have extra time to improve my game and conditioning for the upcoming season. I am sure the right opportunity will come.
You must be disappointed that a team hasn´t signed you yet but it is difficult for guards because they seem to be a dime a dozen. Did I say that expression correctly?
Haha. Yea you said it right. It is true that guards are a dime a dozen, but an experienced and professional guards is rare and harder to find.
Last season the market was tough. Has it even got harder to find a club this season?
I think the market is still tough with some many talented and well connected players. Passing on jobs or extended negotiations with teams is harder to do now with the flooded market.
How do you stay mentally focused in a challenging time like this where your future is a bit in uncertain?
I keep my faith in God and continue to prepare myself as if I am already signed. I was in a similar situation 2 seasons ago and TV Langen and they gave me the chance to come in after the season started and I was ready!
How does a typical Brandon Chappel workout day look like in summer?
8am I hit the track and weight room for conditioning. After that I go to the gym for ball handling, 1 on 1 moves and shooting. At 4pm I workout with my old college team. We do conditioning and play 5 on 5. I end my day with free throws and stretching.
What part of your game do you still have to work on?
I still work on all parts of my game everyday but I have been focusing on improving my pick roll play offensively and defensively. I am becoming more comfortable with my option out of it for my teammates and myself.
You had an Invitation Only Workout with the Sioux Falls Skyforce & Tulsa 66ers (NBDL). What kind of experience was that for you?
It was a great experience for me personally. The teams demanded a high intensity level and it was fun to fight against other talented players. The challenge did a lot for my confidence and I look forward to see what happens.orkout with the Sioux Falls Skyforce & Tulsa 66ers (NBDL). What kind of experience was that for you?
You played two seasons with TV Langen. Your stats went down a bit last season. What were the reasons for this?
Last season was a tough year all together but honestly I learned from the hard times. I had a few small injuries but no real excuses. I put in extra time in the gym this summer to make up for it.
You are a point guard but if you had to change your style to play in a different kind of system would you be willing to do that?
Yes I am point guard first. The past season my role was to attack and shot, but I enjoy pushing the ball and getting my teammates involved. Playing the shooting guard position has helped improve my game mostly because I had to compete against other 2 guards that were bigger than me.
What did you learn the most in your two seasons in Langen?
I learned how to be a better professional on and off the court. Despite anything that goes on throughout the season, positive or negative, you must be professional. The management and coach helped me learn that.
You played together with Robin Benzing. What was your first impression of him in Langen?
When I first played with Robin, I was surprised with his ball handling ability and how easy he moves around the court at 208cm. He is a natural offensive weapon.
Do you think that he can play in the NBA?
I definitely think if he keeps working and improving his total game, he will play in the NBA. He is not far from that goal.
What was the most crazy shot that Benzing ever made in a practice?
I am not sure about that. Everyday we all use to do crazy trick shots before and after practice. To many to remember.
What was your nicest on court memory of a play that involved you and Benzing?
Easy…he hit the game winning 3pointer against Cuxhaven with no time left on the clock
Do you think that you could make the next step in the BEKO BBL? Do you still need to prove yourself at the PRO A level?
The BBL is definitely more physical and athletic but I know I can make the step into the BBL and compete at the highest level. Working hard and focusing on improving everyday doesn’t change at any level. If or when the chance comes to make that step I will be ready.
What is a strength in your game that isn’t usually noticed?
I think it is my passing ability. I understand the value of advancing the ball up the court, always make the extra pass, and create and dish. I am an underrated passer.
How well will the Miami Heat do with Lebron James?
Its scary to add Lebron, Bosh and solid experienced role players to Wade’s world…will be fun to watch.
Will your friend Kendrick Perkins and the Boston Celtics win a title with Shaq, Jermaine O, Neal, Rondo and the Big 3?
If Shaq and Jermaine can play solid minutes on both sides of the court and we stay injury free, the vet crew in Beantown will definitely be a contender for the championship.
Will the USA win the gold in Turkey?
I just watched them play against Brazil and they struggled, but I think the entire team knows how important the World Championship is and they will pull it out in the end.
What was the last DVD movie that you saw?
I saw Takers in the movie theater. Trying to save my dvds for the new season
Thanks Miles!!!
brandon is a great player. i think he could help any pro a or pro b team. much underrated!