Kameron Taylor (198-G-94, college: Seton Hill) is a 26 year old 198cm guard from Hyattsville, Maryland that is playing his fifth ofessional season and first with the Hamburg Towers. Last season he played with Brose Bamberg playing 26 BBL games averaging 10.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 82.8and played 12 BCL games averaging 9.5ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 86.2%. In 2018-2019 he played with Pecsi VSK-Veolia (Hungary-A Division) averaging 19.2ppg), 8.1rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-1 (2.2spg), FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 74.8%. Three seasons ago he played in Germany with the Dragons Rhondorf and tore up the Pro B averaging 23,4ppg, 7,9rpg and 5,6apg, and 2,6spg. As a rookie he played with Team Ehingen Urspring (Germany-ProA) playing 29 games averaging 10.8ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 43.9%, FT: 80.2%. He started his basketball career at DeMatha Catholic and in 2012-2013 started his career at Seton Hill (NCAA2) and as a freshman played 28 games averaging 7.8ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 70.0%. In his second season at Seton Hill (NCAA2) he played 27 games averaging 12.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.6apg, 2.0spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 77.9%. In his junior season at Seton Hill (NCAA2) he played 16 games averaging 13.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.3%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 70.6%. In his senior year at Seton Hill (NCAA2) he played 27 games averaging 20.8ppg, 8.7rpg, 4.1apg, 2.2spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 76.8%. He spoke to eurobasket following the huge 90-75 win over Alba Berlin.

Congrats Kam on the massive 90-75 win against Alba Berlin. You beat Bamberg and Crailsheim, but was this the biggest win of the season?

The most recent win is always the most important

Alba Berlin destroyed the Fraport Skyliners 48 hours ago and are used to playing a lot with the Euroleague load, but do you feel like they might have gone a bit too leisurely into the contest?

Berlin is a great team. They very disciplined so If you don’t come out ready they can really take the game.

Both teams came out firing. Alba Berlin’s offense is really beautiful to watch with their many options, extra passes and cutting. If Alba Berlin’s offense is beautiful how would you describe the Hamburg Towers offense best?

We are definitely not the prettiest offense but as the season continues we are getting better in our execution and reading defenses.

Alba Berlin had the slim 50-49 advantage at the break, What did head coach Pedro Calles tell the team to do better in the second half?

He told us we have to continue to playing the way we were and to keep our energy up.

The Hamburg Towers buckled down on defense in the second half allowing only 25 points. What adjustments did the club make on the defensive end in the second half?

Just being ourselves. We feel we are one of, if not the best defensive teams in the league.

Alba Berlin has so many talented players, but how much of a factor was it not having Peyton Siva in the second half?

Peyton Siva is a great player for them. We know he gives the team a different look. We will be ready when he plays as well.

The Hamburg Towers out shot and out rebounded Alba Berlin. What personally did you like most about how you were able to win as a team for 40 minutes?

We were all locked in and focused. Though we made small mistakes, we played through it and continued to win against one of the best teams in the league.

This win was huge, because the next 4 games don’t get any easier against Munich, Bamberg, Berlin and Oldenburg. How good is the team self confidence as you continue to fight to play in the playoffs?

We feel we can beat anybody when we are playing our best basketball. But we take it one game at a time.

Maik Kalev-Kotsar has been a huge part of success this season. Is he playing his best basketball of the season now?

Maik has been playing his best basketball all season. Definitely wouldn’t be where we are without him.

You had a tough shooting stretch at the start of 2021, but since then have been fairly consistent scoring despite having a tough stretch from outside in February. How instruemental has head coach Pedro Calles been for you this season in helping you make another step in your game?

He told me to continue to be myself. It’s easy to keep confidence with him as a coach.

NBA legend Dino Radja said that he couldn’t imagine Russell Westbrook having success in Europe leading a team. Do you agree?

It’s definitely a different brand of basketball but I couldn’t imagine that he wouldn’t have any success.

Have you seen the new Coming To America 2? Shouldn’t they just have left it with the original?

Haven’t seen it yet so I can’t tell you.

Thanks Kam for the chat.

 DJ Woodmore is a 29 year old 190cm point guard that is playing his first season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. Last season with Morgenstern BIS Basket Speyer (Germany-ProB) he played 21 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 87.3%. In 2018-2019 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 71.6% in the Regionalliga. In his first two seasons with Speyer he averaged 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1% and 17.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 76.4%. he played at Virginia Wesleyan College (NCAA3): from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and DJ Woodmore team together each week to talk basketball

Thanks DJ for talking to germanhoops.com The EPG Baskets finally begin the playoffs on April 1st. How vital is the off time for the club?

Thanks for having me again. Finally that time of the year. The time off has been great for our team to get our bodies recovered and ready for the stretch of games. 3 games in one week for the next few weeks if we’re lucky. I think it’s been important to have a few days off and I think you’ll see our team benefit from it!

Is it beneficial or not that you will face Giessen again in the first game? Both teams will know each others tendencies better than usual.

I actually don’t think it’s completely beneficial for us to play them first. It’s always difficult to beat a team 3 times in a year. Coming off a win last week against them, we have to make sure that our mindset is fresh. Build on the mistakes we made last weekend and play like the result doesn’t matter. They’ll have a chip on their shoulder and we need to do the same.

How has the practice time been since the Giessen game? On what things is the team focusing on most?

Practices have been fine. Nothing special but you can tell the intensity and focus has changed for the better. We have to prepare like every game is a championship game, and we’ve been doing a good job of that so far.

The last game against Giessen was a massive shoot out. What kind of game can we await this time? Will it be another high scoring affair or could it be a game in the 70s or 80’s?

Hopefully we can have the same offensive production as last game. But maybe keep one of their big three in check this time. We had some matchup some problems but we’ll find a way to combat that and buckle down a little better on defense. We can’t afford another OT thriller like that. The game could have went either way.

You also will face off against Schwelm. They had an up and down season, but finished the regular season with a three game winning streak. I would have you as favorite on paper. What kind of game can we await?

I don’t know too much about them to be honest. All the focus has been on Itzehoe the last week then that switched to Giessen. I know they have a special player in their American and they perform as he goes. So I can expect us to throw some different defensive looks at him to make it a little tough. But we’ll see.

Have you ever played against Montrael Scott? He is their best player putting up 16/6/6 stats. Is he a guy your looking forward to dueling?

Absolutely looking forward to playing against him for the first time. I know he’s been solid the last few seasons for Schwelm so he’s definitely going to be our focal point.

The last opponent are the Itzehoe Eagles. They are a very good offensive team averaging 86 points per game, but can be vulnerable on the defensive end allowing 84 points per game. What kind of game can we await?

I think we’ll have a challenge with them but I do think they can be a team we can exploit defensively. They’re used to high scoring games so our defensive is going to be key!

Koblenz will have to be awake under the court as they have two talented guys with Chris Hooper and Yasin Kolo. Do you see Brian Butler being able to match up against Hooper well?

I think it will take a team to guard Hooper down in the Point. He’s more than just a big man for them, he’s also their play maker. We have to make it tough for him and keep him guessing.

What are your biggest goals with your game in the playoffs? What kind of DJ Woodmore do you want to present?

I just want to get back to my consistent ways. I’ve finally felt like I can get a rhythm again. Body feels better, and offensively I’m starting to flow again. I’m 100% going to step it up in the next weeks and get back to my playmaking mentality. Offensively and defensively!

Basketball legend Dino Radja said he couldn’t see a Russell Westbrook being able to lead his team to success in Europe. Do you agree?

He’s highly mistaken. I don’t think he’s watched enough of Westbrook if he believes that! He lays it all on the line game after game and gives you everything he has. If that’s not a leader, I don’t know what is. At any level!!

Thanks DJ for the chat.

Moses Byekwaso is a 23 year old 190cm guard that was born in London, England and played his first season in Germany with the ScanPlus Baskets Elchingen (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 22,0ppg, 4,0rpg, 2,0apg and 1,0spg. He began his basketball career at Preston College (United Kingdom) and then went to the States and played at 2 different schools. He began at Northeast Community College (JUCO) playing 30 games averaging 8.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 75.0%. In his second season at Northeast Community College (JUCO) he played 27 games averaging 12.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.6%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 75.0%. he played his last season in the States at the University of Science and Arts (NAIA) playing 27 games averaging 11.0ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 74.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career during COVID-19 in 2020.

Moses thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been despite the whole COVID-19 effecting the world

Thank you for having me. In terms of when covid stuck I was still in Oklahoma finishing up school there. In terms of how covid affected me, apart from the 2 months of quarantine covid didn’t really affect me. The main reason for this is because in Oklahoma I managed to find a court as well as a coach and player to workout with each day while keeping safe by sanatizing and following guidelines.

How have you experienced the whole COVID-19 crisis in Great Britain in the last months How much did the last 6 months change your life and how much of a challenge was it finding the time and places to be able to stay in shape and be able to work on your game?

I was blessed enough to not have been affected by this mainly because I wasn’t based at home in London, and only got home mid august.so I guess I managed to doge the heat of quarantine. in terms of how covid has changed my life I would say there were some benefits as it gave me a lot of time to focus on other aspects of my life apart from basketball.

You played your last game on Februry 29, 2020 in the NAIA. What did you learn about appreciate most about basketball in the time that you couldn’t compete on the floor against other teams?

The main thing I appreciated was family. like even though I wasn’t at home, I managed to take time each day just to have a conversation with my family members which was hard to do during the season because of how busy I was as well as the time difference.

How do you feel did COVID-19 make you stronger as a man?

It really just made me more hungry and was just a reminder that nothing is promised, and also help me really tune in to my hobbies/work outside the game.

Congrats on signing with German Regionalliga team ScanPlus Baskets. How excited are you about starting your professional career in Germany?

-Thank you so much, and yes I’m very excited mainly because this is a dream come true and I’ve heard nothing but good things about basketball in Germany and the market.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball. In the last years there have been more players coming to Germany from the UK.

Coming in to Germany I really didn’t know much but with the help of my agent and some of my own research as well as feedback from older players that have played in Germany I’ve heard that it’s a good market to play in as well as the basketball is more up tempo which suits my game perfectly.

What were the main reasons for joining this club? Do you feel like you have a very good chance of developing further as a player here?

The main reason I chose to join scanplus was mainly because they are a winning program as well as it was just a good fit for me to start of my pro career. oh 100% I can see myself developing here in Germany but will have to see what the future holds for me.

Let’s talk a bit about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I wouldn’t say that I could compare myself to just one player mainly because I believe that my game is very versatile I would say it would be a combination of a Russell Westbrook and a prime JR smith.

You’re a guy that can score, but what other assets does your game have that makes you be successful on the court?

I would say that my defense would be my main asset apart from scoring mainly because iIcan guard 1-3 on all the teams I’ve played on.

You were a solid three point shooter in school, but not an excellent shooter. How hungry are you to eclipse the 40% mark as an outside shooter?

-I wouldn’t say it’s my goal to shoot 40% because I feel that I have the ability to shoot at 40% clip, but I 100% want to shoot over 40 this year.

Your also a solid defender. What do you feel is your best attribute on the defensive end?

my best attribute on defense would being able to guard multiple positions even at my height as well as grabbing defensive rebounds.

On what area’s of your game did you work on most this summer so your game can continue to grow as you climb the basketball ladder?

The main aspect I really focused on the season was to improve my ball handling and being able to create multiple ways to create scoring opportunities for my teammates as well as myself. As well as to keep the consistency in my jump shot.

You played the last 4 years in the States for 3 different schools with Missouri State University West Plains (JUCO), Northeast Community College (JUCO) and the University of Science and Arts (NAIA). Do you ever wonder where you might be today had you remained in the UK and continued to develop there?

To be honest I don’t think I would have stayed in the UK to develop but if I did I would say that I would be in the BBL (British basketball league) and would have a solid role there.

How beneficial do you feel it was for your game being able to play at 2 schools? How do you feel did your game develop further in the States?

I’m really thankful for the fact that I was able to go and play in the U.S mainly because I felt that it brought a different type of focus/ dog out of me mainly because over there you see how hard some players and even normal people work to get what they want.

You played 2 seasons with Northeast Community College (JUCO) averaging 8.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 75.0% and averaging 12.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.6%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 75.0%. What kind of an experience was it balling in the JUCO? Players that I interview always report that is a tough league. How challenging is it playing so many guys with chips on their shoulders?

Yeah for sure JUCO basketball is 100% the hardest basketball a player could play in (in terms of college) mainly because like you said everyone is trying to get a scholarship and make it. but for sure at first it was hard however I feel that once you find your role on your team other than scoring or even if you just spot up and shoot its definately gets easier, because anyone can have 30 on any night so as a player scoring cannot be your main focus.

You finished at the University of Science and Arts (NAIA) playing 27 games averaging 11.0ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 74.6%. You had many good games there, but was your 28 point explosion against John Brown one of your fondest memories on the court?

Even though I did score 28 i wouldn’t say that was my fondest memory that year. In terms of overall college experience scoring 38 pts on 14/17 shooting as well as me coming off the bench in both halfs was my best memory. In terms of my last year as USAO I would say winning the game vs ranked LSUA with only 7 of are guys playing was my best memory because man did we fight for that win.

How did head coach Chris Francis give you that last push in helping groom and prepare you for a professional career?

-I would say his main effect on me wasn’t to do with basketball it was more of a life aspect as he would always tell us that nothing is promised and basketball could end tommorow.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Trevon Ellis?

me of course hahaha.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the States or anywhere that went to the NBA?

I actually haven’t played anyone that has gone to the NBA yet but I would say as a freshman I played against two big guys one played for marshall town and another was Spanish and played for Indian hill They were definately two tough big guys.

Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Thats a tough one I would say in no particular order
-melkisedek moreaux
-johnathan james
-javel small
-calvin kintu
-akwasi yeboah

Please construct your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present players?

-Micheal Jordan
-Lebron James
-Allen Iverson
-Larry Bird

What is your personal opinion between the never ending debate between Michael Jordan and Lebron James concerning who is the greatest of all-time?

I would say in terms of stats Lebron is the goat but in terms of actual game, winning and overall culture change without a doubt it has to be Michael Jordan. So Michael is the greatest of all time.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Friday which was a long time ago mainly because I’m not really a movie type of guy.

Thanks Moses for the chat.

The up and down season for the Fraport Skyliners continue, but with less than two months from the start of the playoffs, Frankfurt won´t move down, but have a legitimate chance of making the playoffs. The only problem is that they need to win some games against teams higher than them in the standings. The Fraport Skyliners continue to lose to better teams, but beat clubs that are below them in the standings. The Fraport Skyliners came into the game against Alba Berlin sporting a three game winning streak and added self confidence as they were seeking revenge for the early season loss on the road to Alba Berlin 79-66. Alba Berlin continue to cruise in the easyCredit BBL despite having the Euroleague stress, but with a roster that is so deep, they are able to compensate for the two gams a week. Alba Berlin entered the Fraport arena having won four their last six games and at times at risk of stumbling, but on this afternoon all it took was dominating two quarters to easily disposing the Fraport Skyliners 94-60.  They showcased exactly what they are capable of doing outscoring Frankfurt 53-14 in the first and fourth quarters and in the other two quarters stumbled a bit being outscored 46-41. All in all it was another normal day at the office for the current easyCredit BBL champion Alba Berlin. “We did a good job integrating players back into the lineup. We also worked on new things. Frankfurt always plays hard and are a good defensive team. They did a good job turning their defense to offense. We locked down at the end and made our shots”, stressed 2013 NCAA champion Peyton Siva. For the Fraport Skyliners it was another typical game for them where they had great moments, but also disastrous moments as consistency continues to be a massive problem this season. They stunk up their living room at the start and end, but played spirited ball in between. “I didn´t like the way we played at all today. We have to play hard no matter who we play. Our biggest problem this season has been consistency. We will play one or two good quarters, but not the rest. We have to learn to be bale to play well for 40 minutes”, warned ex Rasta Vechta center Michael Kessens.

                The Fraport Skyliners were shorthanded at the point guard position as German Konstantin Konga and American Joe Rahon were out while Alba Berlin were without German national player Maodo Lo. Both teams exchanged the first two baskets as Michael Kessens made four points while Alba Berlin got a lay in from ex MHP Riesen center Johannes Thiemann and Italian guard Simon Fontecchio. But Alba Berlin then took charge as they went on a lethal 15-2 run to take the commanding 19-6 lead. In the run the 19-3 ball club spread the ball around nicely getting scoring from many players. Peyton Siva who once played for the Detroit Pistons got his shooting stroke going making a trey, while Fontecchio scored 5 points, young German Malte Delow who was inserted into the starting line up made a lay in, ex ACB player Luke Sikma made a lay in and also fed a pretty alley-oop pass to 221cm giant Christ Koumadje. Alba Berlin had a nice offensive groove and just didn´t let up. Their ball movement was a beauty to watch and they worked very hard on the offensive glass getting numerous offensive rebounds that led to extra chances and baskets. Frankfurt was erratic on offense and coughed up the ball too many times. On defense they were overwhelmed by the Alba Berlin physicality and height. Especially by 221cm big man Christ Koumadje who had two blocks. “He takes up a lot of space. He also did a good job altering shots”, stated Quantez Robertson. Alba Berlin also did a good job not letting Frankfurt sniper Matt Mobley get into an offensive groove. Down the stretch, Alba Berlin got added offense from Swedish national player Marcus Eriksson who drilled a trey as did two time NCAA champion with UConn Niels Giffey. After 10 minutes Alba Berlin had the comfortable 25-10 advantage. “We weren´t aggressive on defense and weren´t talking. We had too many turnovers and gave up too many offensive rebounds”, stressed Quantez Robertson.

                In the second quarter Alba Berlin led by as much as 17 points, but the Fraport Skyliners made  a late run to cut the lead down to 45-35 at the break. Alby Berlin raced out of the gates with a lightening 6-0 run getting back to back three pointers from ex  Kirolbet Baskonia Vitoria  guard Jayson Granger and ex Bamberg center Louis Olinde for the overwhelming 31-10 lead. Luke Sikma showed his amazing passing skills as he made a cross court no look pass to Olinde who then made the extra pass to Granger. Sikma finished with four assists with each one more beautiful than the next one. “He is one of the better big men passers in the league”, warned Quantez Robertson. “Luke has been around basketball his whole life. He is so unselfish and has such a great basketball IQ”, stressed Peyton Siva. Frankfurt then demonstrated that at times they can also sparkle on the offensive end going on a swift 7-2 run to trail Alba Berlin 33-17. In the run, they got a trey from American Rasheed Moore who went from the Regionalliga to easyCredit BBL in only three years and two lay in´s by Matt Mobley. The two Mobley buckets were typical individual plays by him something that he strives at. Frankfurt didn´t let up, but continued to chip away at the Alba Berlin lead. They continued to get their opportunities on offense and executed well going on a 10-2 run as Quantez Robertson who has been shooting the ball very well in the last two games shooting 5/11 tested his 34% from outside and scored while Kessens made a tap in, Mobley a lay in on transition and Jon Axel Gudmundsson free throws cutting the Alba Berlin lead to 38-26. But Frankfurt just couldn´t find a defensive identity as Alba Berlin dominated with their physicality and with more help down low, Alba Berlin always had open guys on the three point line. That led to a three by Fontecchio and a jumper by Eriksson as Alba Berlin had the 10 point lead at half-time. “We were more aggressive on defense and talked more which led us to running the floor more and getting baskets”, stated Quantez Robertson.

            The third quarter was even 21-21 as the Fraport Skyliners just couldn´t get over the hump, but cut the Alba Berlin lead down once to only six points. Frankfurt came out of the break refocused and quickly went on a 5-2 run to cut Alba Berlin´s lead to 47-40 as Kessens made a hook shot and Robertson hit another trey. But instead of keeping the momentum, Frankfurt fell into another rut something that happens countless times during a game allowing the guests on a 7-0 run to extend their lead to 54-40. Frankfurt had no solution how to slow down Eriksson who scored 5 points and Fontecchio scored inside. But Frankfurt just didn´t give up as they continued to execute well on offense and upped their intensity on the defensive end going on a 12-4 run to cut the Alba Berlin lead to 58-52. In the run the 2000 BBL cup champion got key support from ex FC Bayern Munich guard Bruno Vrcic and Quantez Robertson with lay ups and then got clutch three pointers from Gudmundsson and Mobley. Frankfurt was defending a lot better and Alba Berlin didn´t keep it simple, but played a bit too fancy turning the ball over and allowing Frankfurt to crawl back into the game. But Alba Berlin closed out the third quarter well getting a Sikma lay in and getting to the foul line three times with Thiemann twice and Giffey leading 66-56. “We just continued to run our stuff and maintain the lead”, said Peyton Siva. “They made a lot of open shots and tough shots and we continued to turn the ball over”, stated Quantez Robertson.

            The Fraport Skyliners did a super job in the third quarter battling and staying in range, but within a few minutes in the fourth quarter, Frankfurt had lost the game down by 20 points and half way through the game were down by 30 points. Frankfurt was destroyed in the fourth quarter allowing 28 points and mustering only 4 points. Alba Berlin crushed Frankfurt going on a devastating 19-0 run and Frankfurt scored their first field goal at 4,45. Alba Berlin just continued to execute as if they were on a leisurely Sunday afternoon stroll in the park as Frankfurt couldn´t match their intensity. Alba Berlin began their scoring outburst with rapid 5 points from Jayson Granger. The onslaught continued with a Giffey two hand dunk, Siva lay in, free throws and trey, and added buckets from Granger, Giffey and Tim Schneider as Frankfurt was down and out 86-56. “We are a team that has to play well on offense with some added risk. We need to play physical and limit their tempo. They played cat and mouse with us. They have an outstanding basketball IQ and our help just wasn´t crisp enough”, stated Fraport Skyliners head coach Sebastian Gleim. Bruno Vrcic finally made Frankfurt´s first field goal after being outscored for 5,15. Alba Berlin played until the end getting added baskets from Eriksson, Olinde and Koumadje. “We continued to push the pace and wore them down. They have a lot of guys that have to play many minutes. We remained physical and kept Mobley off the line”, said Peyton Siva. “We weren´t tired, but just didn´t execute well enough. They got out in the open court, hit shots and made us pay”, stressed Quantez Robertson. Alba Berlin was led by Marcus Eriksson with 18 points and Peyton Siva added 14 points while Niels Giffey added 12 points and Jayson Granger had 10 points while the Fraport Skyliners were led by Matt Mobley with 14 points and Michael Kessens had 10 points. Alba Berlin shot 53% from the field and 36% from outside and had 44 rebounds and 20 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 40% from the field and 25% from outside and had 23 rebounds and 23 turnovers. 

Sometimes the basketball world can be so small as the NBA meets each other in less than a month twice in the small cities of Wurzburg and Giessen. The last time that ex NBA players Diante Garrett and Perry Jones played against each other in the NBA was almost seven years ago. But now they faced each other twice in the easyCredit BBL in less than a month. Both guys equal 233 NBA games combined as their paths first crossed in the NCAA as they both garnered All-Big 12 Second Team status. They then met again in the NBA as Diante Garrett was with the Utah Jazz and Perry Jones was balling with the Oklahoma Thunder. Jones had the 3-1 game advantage and also won their first meeting in February with s.Oliver Wurzburg winning 101-82 as he netted 4 points, got 6 rebounds and dished out 3 dimes while Garrett had 12 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists. In their fifth professional career meeting Garrett and the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers were trying to survive and somehow creep out of the cellar while Wurzburg was trying to keep winning games and stay on playoff course. S.Oliver Wurzburg played a poor first half playing catch up basketball, but turned their game around in the third quarter and fought back and simply made the big defensive plays in crunch-time and executed on offense getting the massive 74-73 win. After the big win ex NBA player Perry Jones looked back on his meeting with Diante Garrett and the win. “It´s always good to play against a guy you played against before. Diante tried to hit the game winning shot, but I was able to stop him. It was a lot of fun. Our defense in the second half was key for us coming back and winning. I picked up my game and everyone fed off my energy. We definitely won the game on the defensive end”, stressed s.Oliver Wurzburg forward Perry Jones. The easyCredit BBL air for the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers is getting thinner and thinner as once again they had the opportunity to win the game, but again couldn´t strap down in crunch-time and just execute at both ends of the floor. After the bitter loss, Diante Garrett was disappointed that the club once again couldn´t put it all together for 40 minutes. “It´s always good to see a familiar face with Perry Jones. We played in college and NBA and are friends. He is a good guy. He had a tough start, but never gave up and stayed with his game. He played more aggressive in the second half, hit a big three pointer and played good defense to help his team get the win. We played well for 30 minutes. We weren´t aggressive enough in the third quarter. They had more energy than we did”, stressed Jobstairs Giessen 46er Diante Garrett.

            s.Oliver Wurzburg ruled the first two minutes, but after that the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers dominated the last 8 minutes pouring on a lethal 18-0 run to lead 25-16 after one quarter. The guests from Bavaria took the rapid 4-0 lead getting a lay in from American Murphy Holloway who began the season with Al-Muharraq (Bahrain-Premier League) and free throws from American Tyson Ward who played at North Dakota State University (NCAA). But basketball is a game of runs and Giessen just pulled out an offensive arsenal that one seldom sees as they hit Wurzburg for 18 straight points to take the commanding 18-4 lead. In the run, Giessen got incredible production from American veteran Brandon Thomas who scored three three´s. Thomas may be 36 years old and even if he scored only 9 points in 112 minutes in the last four games, the sniper was simply due to get out of his funk and did. Giessen also got baskets from ex Bradley(NCAA) forward Scottie James Jr, Diante Garrett and a three from ex Bayreuth forward Brandon Bowman. Giessen stepped up their defense anticipating very well, getting in passing lanes and playing superb 1-1 defense to force Wurzburg to turnover after turnover which was 8 after 10 minutes. Wurzburg finally began to execute better and get back into the game closing out the quarter with a 12-7 run. Giessen shot an incredible 63% from outside while Wurzburg upped their field goal percentage and shot 45% from outside In the Wurzburg run, they got 7 clutch points from German veteran Florian Koch who displayed his versatile play, a trey by ex NAIA standout Cameron Hunt who had been slowed down well by Wurzburg and a basket from young German Joshua Obiesie. “Giessen capitalized on us not having energy. Thomas hit big shots which got them going”, stated Perry Jones.

            The Jobstairs Giessen 46ers continued to control the game in the second quarter and kept their lead in double figures. Usually when Giessen is on, you can expect ex easyCredit BBL rebounding king John Bryant to be very involved in the offense, but he didn´t score a single basket in the first quarter. It was only a matter of time before he would as he dropped a trey leading Giessen on a 8-2 run for the 33-18 advantage.  Bowman hit a three pointer and ex Alba Berlin guard Ferdinand Zylka gave valuable energy from the bench with a lay in. Wurzburg executed better picking their spots and being more calm as Obiesie scored on a lay in and Ward hit a pretty turn around shot to cut the Giessen lead to 36-26. But Giessen didn´t let up continuing to execute on offense and quickly leading 45-30 as the Brandon Thomas three point party continued with two more trey´s and Garrett scored in the paint as he was held quiet on the night with only 6 points. Wurzburg got a vital push in the last minute from Ward as he hit a trey and Koch once again used his quickness driving home with a lay in. Giessen got the last basket from ex Murray State(NCAA) American Jonathan Stark as Wurzburg trailed 47-35. Giessen continued to shoot over 50% from the field and outside and did a good job taking care of the ball with only 6 turnovers while s.Oliver Wurzburg shot 52% from the field and 33% from outside, but couldn´t get closer because of their 12 turnovers. “We remained aggressive, but we missed shots that we usually make which kept us behind stressed Perry Jones.

            s.Oliver Wurzburg played an incredible third quarter as they almost kept Wurzburg without a field goal for 8 minutes and made 13 consecutive stops to not only get back into the game, but to take the lead. In the last few minutes there were five lead changes as Giessen was on top after 30 minutes 55-54.s.Oliver Wurzburg cruised out on a big 15-1 run to take the 50-48 lead while getting stop after stop and forcing 7 turnovers. Cameron Hunt who had been held to only 4 points in the first half was instrumental at both ends of the court getting 7 points and on defense made a huge block and steal to lead the charge. Wurzburg did a solid job attacking and staying in attack mode getting buckets inside as Koch scored as did Holloway. Jones who had been 0/3 shooting in the first half, let his defense spark his offense as he nailed a key three to give Wurzburg the 49-48 advantage. In the last minutes both teams would exchange leads 5 times as Zylka, Jones, Alex King and Garrett scored. ”We got more aggressive on defense, got in passing lanes and pushed the ball on transition getting easy baskets”, stated Perry Jones. “Wurzburg increased their intensity on defense and we didn´t have that smooth offense anymore”, added Diante Garrett.

            The fourth quarter was a giant dog fight as s.Oliver Wurzburg kept the lead and led by six points, but then Giessen rallied and gained the lead back and it seemed like they would get that much needed home win, but once again they failed to close out the game with solid execution. Hunt and Bowman exchanged baskets as the game was tied 57-57. Wurzburg attacked the paint getting vital baskets from Hunt and Holloway for the 65-61 lead. Giessen didn´t let down as they got valuable production from Jonathan Stark who took responsibility for Garrett who had an off day. Stark hit three free throws to cut the Wurzburg lead to 66-64. Wurzburg kept the pressure on with a bucket from Holloway inside and then Hunt made another key block which led to an easy transition basket by Alex King for the 70-64 lead. Wurzburg made the big hustle plays and Giessen just couldn´t match their intensity. How often have Brandon Thomas and Brandon Bowman been criticized for their play and being over the hill, but on this night, both guys were worth every penny as they combined for 33 points. Bowman saved his best for last making 5 unanswered points to cut Wurzburg´s lead to 70-69. In the last few minutes, the game became a game of runs. Giessen found some daylight retaking the lead with a Stark fade away jumper and Bryant free throws for the 73-70 lead with 2,05 to play. But Giessen couldn´t get defensive stops as Wurzburg again attacked the paint as Holloway´s physicality once again won in 1-1 play to cut Giessen´s lead to 73-72. Then came the Jones-Ward connection as Jones made a big steal and fed Ward for the easy transition basket and 74-73 lead with 24 seconds to play. “I can´t control if my shot goes in or not, but I can always control my energy level. I was able to push the ball in transition and find my teammates when I needed to”, stressed Perry Jones. “We need to know how to execute in these situations, but we weren’t able to”, stressed Diante Garrett. Giessen had the last play to win the game, but their offensive possession looked so confusing and lacked focus and that killer drive. Mediocre ball movement led to a tough contested attempt by Garrett that failed. “I´m happy I got the steal and happy that Ward was running”, smiled Perry Jones. “I thought I had a good look. Jones has really long arms. When I spun and wanted to shoot, I saw his arms which made it difficult. He made a good defensive play and I just missed”, commented Diante Garrett. S.Oliver Wurzburg were led by Cameron Hunt with 18 points while Florian Koch and Tyson ward added 13 points a piece. Murphy Holloway added 12 points while the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers were led by Brandon Thomas with 18 points while Brandon Bowman had 15 points. S.Oliver Wurzburg shot 51% from the field and 33% from outside and had 29 rebounds and 17 turnovers while the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers shot 39% from the field and 36% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 17 turnovers.

After playing his first two professional seasons with the Oklahoma Thunder amassing 108 games, but averaging only 9 minutes per game, Perry Jones may have thought going into his third season that three might be a charm. After not being much of a factor in his first two seasons where his talent just wasn´t used right or rewarded, he entered his third season having the basketball God having an eye on him. He had played a very potent NBA Summer League averaging 12,3ppg and 5,3rpg and had a strong training camp and then was thrusted into the starting line up as NBA superstars Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook had been sidelined with injuries. So there he was opening night in the starting lineup against Portland, but had a game to forget scoring only 3 points and shooting 1/9. But he didn´t let that poor performance discourage him as he rebounded exploding for a career high 32 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists on 10/17 shooting against the Los Angeles Clippers in his second game. He was the best player on the court as he battled iconic names like Chris Paul, Blake Griffin and Deandre Jordan of the Clippers. The Thunder lost to the Clippers, but in the next game, Jones helped lead his team to a 102-91 win over Denver netting 23 points. He continued to log many minutes and scored 16 points in a loss against Brooklyn. Then in his fifth game misfortune hit him something that would plague him his whole career as he got injured against Toronto on November 4^th, 2015. Then came possibly the turning point in his career that derailed his further career in the NBA. He was out a month and then returned and got the shock of his life when he had a meeting with head coach Scott Brooks. Jones often thinks back to this moment and wonders how his NBA career would have gone had he not been injured. “I came back from my injury and was at practice. We were playing 3-3 drills and coach was telling players their role. Coach then came to me and said from now on you will play 5 minutes or not at all. I remember wondering wait a minute I was holding the team down before my injury and now all I´m going to get is 5 minutes? It was a mental roller coaster and something that was tough to deal with”, stressed Perry Jones. It would be his last season in the NBA as Perry Jones witnessed the NBA being a business as he went from starter and carrying the Oklahoma Thunder to playing 5 minutes or not at all.

                Perry Jones was born on September 24^th, 1991 in Winnsboro. Louisiana. He began his basketball career at Duncanville high school and helped lead his team to the Texas 5A championship game where they lost to Cedar Hill high school 59-51 and finished with a 23-9 record. He belonged to the best players in the country as he was rated #7 in the ESPN 100, was #9 in the class of 2010 by scout.com and was seen as the #9 by rivals.com. He topped of his high school career getting the massive recognition being named to the 2010 Mcdonalds All-American team. He then played at Baylor University from 2010-2012 playing a total of 63 NCAA games. In his freshman season he played 30 games averaging 13.9ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 66.4%. In his senior year he played 33 games averaging 13.5ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 69.6%. His biggest achievement in his two year NCAA career was reaching the big dance in 2012. Baylor went on to defeat South Dakota State, Colorado and Xavier. In the Elite 8, they had the massive task of facing powerhouse Kentucky that had future NBA players like Anthony Davis, Doron Lamb, Darius Miller, Terence Jones, Marquis Teague, Kyle Wiltjer and Michael Gilchrist. Baylor had a very potent starting 5 with Jones, Qunicy Acy, Pierre Jackson, Quincy Miller-Scott and Brady Heslip, but it just wasn´t enough against Kentucky on that day losing 82-70. Jones had a solid last NCAA game scoring 17 points and hauling down 8 boards. Would Baylor have won had they slowed down Gilchrist better who had 19 points from the bench? “I think so. We could of done a lot of things better, but that is how the cookie crumbles. If I had to do it all over, I would pick us to win it”, stated Perry Jones. He witnessed the future NBA superstar Anthony Davis who had a great game against them scoring 18 points, hauling down 11 rebounds and swatting away 6 balls. Many saw the big man´s talent, but Jones wouldn´t have been able to make any predictions in 2012 about where the journey of Davis would go. “I was still naïve in college. I wouldn´t have been able to say anything then. It is cool how his career has gone. I think that being able to join team USA right after school really helped his career. He was able to soak in so much from the superstars”, stressed Perry Jones. In his senior year he scored in double figures in 21 games and registered 10 double doubles. His best scoring games occurred against Kansas State where he had 31/11 stats in a win, 28 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals in an exciting 86-83 win over BYU and 28 points in a victory over Prairie View A&M. He remembers head coach Scott Drew helping him progress from the NCAA to the pro ranks. “He was the same with all the players and wasn´t hard on me. He had good defensive schemes and made everyone feel comfortable on offense. He just knew what to do”, remembered Perry Jones. The list of achievements didn´t slow down in the NCAA as he garnered All-Big 12 2nd Team -11, Big 12 All-Rookie Team -11, NABC Division I All-District 8 2nd Team -11, 12, All-Big 12 3rd Team -12, Big 12 All-Tournament Team -12 and Big 12 Tournament Finalist -12

           Jones had many one on one battles at Baylor (NCAA) with teammate Anthony Jones and won most of them was seen as a 2012 Lottery pick, but instead slipped dramatically being chosen #28 by the Oklahoma Thunder. In his rookie season he had many assignments with the Tulsa 66ers (D-League) playing 19 games averaging 13.4ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 68.3%, but also played 38 NBA games averaging 2,3ppg and 1,6rpg. In the D-league he scored in double figures in 13 games and had 3 double doubles. He had some monster games registering 26 points against Canton, 25/16 against Texas and scored 21 points twice against Sioux Falls. He made his NBA debut on November 2 notching 2 points, 2 rebounds and 1 assist in 5 minutes in a win over Portland. He scored in double figures only once logging 39 minutes in the second to last game of the season against Milwaukee putting up 14/9 stats. He was on a team that had two great players with Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant and other bona fide players like Kendrick Perkins and Serge Ibaka and you would assume he had some kind of rookie wake up call, but he didn’t. ‘I was a good rookie. I really had no problems. Of course when guys needed something, I would get it. But there were no pink back packs or hazing. I also didn’t get my car filled with popcorn’, joked Perry Jones. In his second season with the Thunder the American played a full season in the NBA playing 70 games and averaging 3,2ppg and 1,8rpg and his minutes increased from 7 to 11. ‘I had a few more chances in my second season, but in the end not enough. I was playing behind too many other players and there just wasn’t any room for me. Everybody was established. I needed to have gone to a place where a team needed a piece and where I could get minutes and develop further’, stated Perry Jones. He scored in double figures in five games including netting 13 points in a win against Utah and getting 12 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists in a victory over Philadelphia. He then played 39 minutes and scored 9 points in the 5 game playoff series loss to the San Antonio Spurs. He battled against future legends like Tony Parker, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginoboli and Kwahi Leonard. This was by far one of his best experiences of the season. ‘To be honest every game in the NBA was an experience. But seeing how the Spurs played basketball was totally different. I was like a fan seeing all these legends. All I needed was popcorn. Seeing 1-1 how the Spurs communicated really does wonders for a young player. It was magical for me’, warned Perry Jones. He had a very strong NBA Summer League campaign with the Oklahoma Thunder in 2014 averaging 12.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 0.5apg, 0.8spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 47.4%, FT: 66.7%. In his third NBA season he then proceeded to play 41 NBA games averaging 4.6ppg, 1.9rpg. But this season was a very tough one for him, because off the court he had other issues. His game suffered because he wasn’t getting enough rest as he often drove 3 hours to Dallas to visit his sick cousin Trequan Blocker. ‘This experience made me stronger as a man. I did what I needed to do. He meant so much to me and I just had to do it. I knew that basketball would still be there for me. This was a mental and emotional roller coaster for me’, remembered Perry Jones. All in all, the American played 143 NBA games averaging 3,4ppg, and 1,8rpg. Even if he was never able to establish himself in the NBA, he wouldn’t trade the experience with anything. ‘I had some good times. I don’t really see it as having played many games. I clocked in and played 20 seconds in some games, but it all counts even if my average would go down. I thought that I learned a lot and became a better player. I showed that I could play scoring 32 points against the Clippers. It was just really tough not playing as much’, stressed Perry Jones.

Guys reach the NBA, but many can´t say that they were teammates with guys like Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant. Westbrook often gets criticized by the media, but teammates have a totally different opinion of the eccentric guard who lives triple doubles. “He was of the coolest guys that I have met. I remembered one day he came in and had shoes for everyone from the janitor all the way to the chef. He really looked out for everyone. I remember when I was guarding him in practice, he would still have same speed after two and a half hours. It was crazy and unrealistic seeing that. I tried to learn as much from him as possible. Russell was always the first in the gym. I remember at the first practice, I came extra early, but he and Durant had already worked out. Russell had this amazing competitiveness that would show in practice. He would stop plays in practice. That is how competitive he was”, stated Perry Jones. The American also remembers one experience with Kevin Durant where he saw the whole spectrum of what an amazing player he really is. “I remember the first day that we had open gym. Coach told me to guard Durant. I was on him and he took two steps past half court, went to his left and took a fade away jumper with one leg going out of bounds. I was in his face, but it was nothing but net. I thought Damn that´s Kevin Durant. He had some 50 and 40 point games that season. I would like to take some credit for making it tough on him in practice which made it easier for him in games”, smiled Perry Jones. Some guys that have been in the NBA never played against Kobe Bryant, but Jones had the pleasure of playing against him every season and remembers him in the best way. “Unfortunately I never had a 1-1 situation with him. His knowledge of the game was OD and Similar to Lebron. He would know every play after the game. I remember him shooting a fade away over Andre Roberson and missing. He was so mad about missing. I never guarded him. I was in the front row and needed some popcorn”, commented Perry Jones.

            Jones who lists ex Boston Celtic Jared Sullinger as being his toughest cover in the NCAA was signed by the Boston Celtics for the 2015-2016 season, but then played for the Iowa Energy (D-League) playing 5 games averaging 13.2ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 39.2%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 71.4%. This was probably his toughest season as so many hardships came together ending his season very early. “I broke my hip and my cousin had just passed away. We had been together since birth. A week later Boston cut me. It was tough times for me. Everything crashed down on me like at the snap of a finger. I couldn´t escape my problems with basketball. I wasn´t the same player as my mind was bouncing off the wall. I had been working out with Tracy McGrady during the summer and then this happened”, remembered Perry Jones. The 2016-2017 season was also a tough one as he was briefly with BC Khimky Moscow Region (Russia-VTB) playing 1 VTB United League game and then moved to the Iowa Energy (D-League) finishing the season with them playing 24 games averaging 6.9ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 20.2%, FT: 72.2%. “The Khimky coach didn´t like me. It was tough coming back from a broken hip. I didn´t give it time to rehab. I just did a bad job of taking care of my body before committing to Khimky. I remember I had problems running in the mountains as it bothered my hip. I just couldn´t play the way I could. When I left Russia, I knew I had problems with my hip. It effected my play in the D-League”, said Perry Jones. In the 2017-2018 season he played with the Iowa Wolves (NBA G League) playing 26 games averaging 10.7ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 72.0%. He scored in double figures in 15 games and had one double double. He had some strong performances against South Bay scoring 24 points and hit Eire Bay for 20 points. In the summer of 2018 he played only one game with the Minnesota Timberwolves at the NBA Summer League. He was very close to getting a contract, but once again misfortune happened. “I was in talks of getting a contract, but then the last practice before the Summer League, I bumped knees with a player. I reinjured my quad. My knee was a balloon. Minnesota wanted to give me a chance, but I was hurt again”, expressed Perry Jones. One can say that his NBA career and staying was very much affected by his injuries. “I broke my hip my first year. Then in my second season I tore my quad. My last year I rolled my ankle back. The Pelicans had called, but I was hurt again”, added Perry Jones. Even if he missed the entire 2018-2019 season, it was a blessing in disguise as he played with the Enemies in the Big 3. “I have had a few season ending injuries in my career. Many thought I was done, but then I played in the Big 3. I was working out with so many great players like Gilbert Arenas. This experience helped me find my game again. I think that if I hadn´t had the Big 3 opportunity that I may not have found a job”, warned Perry Jones.

            The American who lists his five best teammates of all-time with James Harden, Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Quincy Acy and Pierre Jackson came to Europe in 2019 signing with Bursaspor Durmazlar (Turkey-BSL) and playing 21 games averaging 13.6ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 83.8%. One often hears of Americans coming over and having extreme adjustment problems due to culture and language, but that wasn´t the case for him. Going to a team being the lone American can be troubling, but when there are more Americans on board, it makes the whole overseas experience easier. “My time there was exciting. I was lucky to be teammates with Chris Jones a guy that I have known most of my life. That made my time there a lot more comfortable. I wanted to play somewhere where I knew somebody. I also had known Allerik Freeman. We had a great group of guys”, remembered Perry Jones. In his first season in Turkey, he scored in double figures in 16 games including 27 points against ITU BB, 25 points against Fenerbahce and 20 points against Tofas. It wasn´t only the Americans that he felt comfortable with, but also UK player Gabriel Olaseni who has crafted a fine professional career. “Gabe has been one of the most professional guys that I have ever met. He is a great dude that helped keep my head straight. I could always go to him if I had a problem. He is such a smart guy and he always knew how to make me feel better. He was a good anchor for me as a big man”, stressed Perry Jones.

            So let´s fast forward to the 20-21 season. He like everyone else on earth had to deal with COVID-19 and somehow got through it even if it was challenging at times. “I had a lot going on. My wife was pregnant and we were looking for a new apartment. I usually am in California during the off season, but this was the first time that I was in Texas. It was hard finding work out people, but I managed and did the best that I could. It was tough being at home, because the people don´t follow the protocols as well as people do in Europe. In Texas you don´t have to wear masks. I also didn´t see my daughter for a few months. I put a lot of perspective on family”, remembered Perry Jones.  Jones who list his personal NBA Mount Rushmore with legends like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Shaq and Tracey McGrady began the season in Turkey with Bursaspor Durmazlar (Turkey-BSL) playing 10 Eurocup games averaging 7.2ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 52.8%, 3FGP: 35.7%, FT: 80.0%; and played 11Turkish BSL games averaging 6.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 59.0%, 3FGP: 20.8%, FT: 60.0%. It was definitely a time to forget for him. “I had miscommunication with the team. I wanted to see my daughter be born and I missed a flight. We were in disagreement from the start and then everything crumbled down before the season even started. I wasn´t part of the system. I missed some of training camp and everything felt like bad blood”, remembered Perry Jones.

            Jones who last watched the classic Matt Damon movie Bourne Identity left Turkey and signed in Germany with the s.Oliver Wurzburg in February 2021. The club is in no mans land, a place not in danger of moving down, but also far away from the playoffs. He has played only 6 games, but twice against top team FC Bayern Munich where he was reunited with ex teammate wade Baldwin. “It was nice seeing him again. He has grown on and off the court. Seeing him is like family. I was thrown into the fire playing against him in my first BBL game. I wasn´t in great shape yet”, added Perry Jones. He is on a team that has many talented Americans, but also very skilled young German players. He is teammates with American Cameron Hunt who hails from the same Texas home town as Jones from Duncanville. Despite coming from the same town, they didn´t know each other, but Jones is very well aware that Hunt is living that special Cinderella story. “This is the first time I saw him. I have been living in California for a while and wasn´t in Duncanville for a while. He is a great example of a guy taking advantage of corona. Many guys don´t have jobs and Corona helped make space for him. He can play and definitely was overlooked. He is producing and showing that he can play at a high level. Corona definitely helped his career”, warned Perry Jones. Jones has many talented young German teammates and one guy he has been impressed with is Jonas Weitzel. “He has a soft touch and is like a sponge. He is one of most coachable guys I have ever seen. He works very hard every day. It isn´t easy for him having me and Murphy Holloway also at his position. But I´m sure that he will grow into something special”, stressed Perry Jones. Currently he is averaging 7,5ppg, 5,2rpg, and 1,2apg. It hasn´t been an easy start for him, but he is confident that the club and he will make strides until the end of the season. “Our goal is to make the playoffs. I am still trying to find my niche and there are many young players. I am still adjusting to playing with new teammates and I´m sure that I will manage”, stated Perry Jones. His has vast experience and his leadership skills should help the team as well as other assets. “I need to find my game on the offensive end. I´m not a catch and shoot type of guy. I want to use every element of my game so I can play the way I know how”, warned Perry Jones. His time in the NBA is more than 5 years ago and he has began a new chapter in his professional career and continuing to develop as a player. But this weekend, the NBA will be on his mind again when he enters the floor in Giessen. Two weeks ago Diante Garrett had an NBA reunion with Telekom Baskets Bonn guard Chris Babb and this weekend a new one with Perry Jones. Both guys have some things in common as both were named to the All-Big 12 Second Team in college and battled each other in the NBA. In Jones´s second season with Oklahoma, he played three times against Garrett who was with the Utah Jazz as he had his number having a 2-1 record. When he sees Garrett wheeling and dealing on the court again, he may look back on his NBA career again and wonder why his supreme athleticism wasn´t put to proper use by the Oklahoma Thunder. “I felt I wasn´t able to show what I could really do on the court with my game. The Thunder saw what I could do when I scored 32 points against the Clippers. Coach just didn´t know where to put me”, stressed Perry Jones. It will be interesting to witness who wins the ex NBA duel in Giessen. Both guys showed that they could play in the NBA. Jones has crazy athleticism that wasn´t appreciated in the NBA, but it is something that he could flaunt in Europe. He just needs to show it.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Rickey Paulding after the 2015 cup win in Oldenburg

Thanks Rasid for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the big 101-71 win against Rasta Vechta. It seemed like the EWE Baskets put on the extra turbo so it wouldn´t be as close as the first meeting where you won 82-80. We had more the focus today to play better than in the first game. After their win over ratiopharm Ulm, we knew that we had to be careful. They have had injury problems this season, but I think that they will still surprise some teams this season. They will do all they can to remain in the BBL

We have shown this season that our offense works well in most games. When we are playing at home and the ball is moving well, then we have many options to score the ball. We have so many weapons. A Paulding that never stops, a Hornsby who is a great shooter, A Pressy who can always shift up a few gears at any time, and a Hobbs who has a lot of experience. Schwethelm also has a lot of experience and we also have Nathan Boothe who is injured, but a 40% three point shooter.

You guys took off right from the jump ball scoring 63 points in the first half. The EWE Baskets are an explosive team and hit Wurzburg for 124 points, but how impressive was the offense in this first half?

We have shown this season that our offense works well in most games. When we are playing at home and the ball is moving well, then we have many options to score the ball. We have so many weapons. A Paulding that never stops, a Hornsby who is a great shooter, A Pressy who can always shift up a few gears at any time, and a Hobbs who has a lot of experience. Schwethelm also has a lot of experience and we also have Nathan Boothe who is injured, but a 40% three point shooter.

It was very impressive that the EWE Baskets didn’t let up in the second half and continued to defend at a consistent rate. What was the biggest strength on this night on the defensive end?

We showed in the last weeks good pick and roll defense against Munich, Ludwigsburg and Alba Berlin. It was no different tonight showing it against a weaker team.

Ricky Paulding had a superb game netting 24 points. This guy just doesn’t slow down. What do you appreciate most about his game?

He was very good in certain situations tonight. Near the end of the game, Schwethelm came out and coach put in Rickey in for two minutes. He made two shots. One could see his special confidence. He is in a phase now where his body is like 25 and mentally is more dominant than anybody on the court. He has been beating 20 year old players one on one all season long. His body is slowing down, but mentally he is always getting stronger. Mentally he is at a higher level now than last season.

Braydon Hobbs has been playing his best basketball in the last month. What has been key for him having more consistency now?

What many don’t know is that he had food poisoning during the Munich game. He had had a difficult night leading up to the game. He has so much experience and knows how to slow down the game. He likes bringing calmness to the game. He can hit shots from deep and at 2 meters has an easier time finding the open guy. He doesn’t need to play 30 minutes. What guys do in 30 minutes, he can do in 15 minutes.

Another guy that has had a great season and continues to be very consistent is Keith Hornsby. Would it be fair to say that he is a type of glue guy on the team?

Yes he is a type of glue guy. He is a guy that gives his all even in the tough situations. It doesn’t matter if he is playing in the first three minutes or last three minutes, he always gives his all. He is a very agile player that makes the clutch shots.

Hornsby must make your job in the post a lot more enjoyable when your in the post and can use your fine passing skills.

Yes. He is a dream for every assist guy. I believe that he is better at making the hard shots than the easy shots. He also has the ability to make shots off the sprint at a consistent rate.

Did you have to tell some of the younger players who Keith Hornsby’s dad is since they probably don’t know his music?

I don’t know. I’m only 30. I heard that his father is a singer. I don’t think it really interests anyone on the team. I think that his music isn’t as good as his basketball. I could ask him to sing for us.

You had a solid game netting 17 points and getting 10 rebounds. Your minutes have dropped from previous years. How much of a challenge is it bringing your versatile game and being efficient in less minutes.

It always depends how the game opens. There are always tactical instructions that we follow. Tonight we had to start to go inside with the option to kick out. I had problems at the start with less minutes, but now have gotten used to it. I’m very focused now with Corona and no fans to be able to do something in less minutes. Stats are unimportant. The big picture is getting home court and going far in the playoffs.

The standings are very tight as you are fighting for home court in the playoffs. The next 4 games are games that the EWE Baskets should win. How is the team mentality now and how confident are you that the team will close out the season well?

We next play Chemnitz. We can’t underestimate them, because they beat Munich. I think that we will have an advantage, because they have a very tight schedule due to Corona and play something like two games a week. We are the favorite. We beat them easily the first time. A loss would be a sensation and a win a normal thing. We have more to lose than to gain.

It seems like all eyes are on Crailsheim, Ludwigsburg, FC Bayern Munich and Alba Berlin. Do you feel like this puts less pressure on the EWE Baskets to just play their game and be successful?

No. I think that you experience only as much pressure as you put on yourself. We had a tough start losing early in the cup, but then we found ourself and have been effective. Sometimes it is better to attack from the second row. There is more pressure on Ludwigsburg to defend first place than it is for us to defend fourth place.

Why has it been so difficult for teams to figure out the MHP Riesen? They continue to be successful and have an even better team than last year?

Key for them was getting three experienced BBL players with Bartolo, Hulls and Wolfarth-Bottermann. Jaleen Smith is an allrounder and Jamel Mclean an ex BBL MVP. They have proven that they are for real. After their final run last season have stayed consistent and are in first place. John Patrick has done a great job, but they aren’t unbeatable. In the playoffs, you need to be consistent. We will see where they go. In the playoffs, the regular season doesn’t count. Everyone begins at 0.

Did you see Coming To America 2? Should they just have left it with the original and not made this average sequel?

I haven’t seen the new one. I was a Eddie murphy fan when I was younger and I thought that he was very funny especially in Beverly Hills Cop. But then slowly his movies got worse. Ever since Haunted House, I don’t watch his movies anymore. But I may watch Coming To America 2 after this interview.

Thanks Rasid for the chat.

Shaquielle McKissic (196-G-90, college: ASU) is a 30 year old 196cm small forward from Kent Washington playing his 6th professional season and second with Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus (Greece-Euroleague). Last season he played with Besiktas Sompo Japan Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) averaging 17.6ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 64.7%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 75.0%; in the Turkish league and in the BCL averaged 16.6ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.8apg, Steals-5 (2.1spg), FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 76.5%. In 2018-2019 he played with Gaziantep Basketbol (Turkey-BSL) playing 31 games averaging 13.5ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.3apg, Steals-3 (1.6spg), FGP-2 (70.7%), 3PT: 27.7%, FT: 69.3%. He also got further experience playing with teams like Usak Sportlif Basketbol (Turkey-BSL), Herbalife Gran Canaria (Spain-Liga ACB) and Avtodor Saratov (Russia-VTB). In his rookie season he played with Consultinvest VL Pesaro (Italy-Serie A) playing 9 games averaging 15.9ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.4apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 45.9%, 3FGP: 40.8%, FT: 75.0%, in Dec.’15 moved to Changwon LG Sakers (South Korea-KBL) playing 28 games averaging 16.1ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 71.8%. He began his basketball career at N.Idaho JC (JUCO) and played a season at Edmonds Community College (NJCAA). He ten played at Arizona State (NCAA) from 2013-2015 playing a total of 66 NCAA games and as a senior played 34 games averaging 12.4ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.7apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 67.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com following the 84-80 Euroleague win in Berlin.

Shaq thanks for talking to germanhoops

.com Congrats on the 84-80 Euroleague win in Berlin. Was this your first time playing in Berlin? What kind of an experience was it playing in the beautiful Mercedes arena?

It was different. The Mercedes arena is one of a kind. I remember having a friendly about 45 minutes away earlier this season. This is one of the most amazing arena’s in the Euroleague.

How disappointing is it seeing such a beautiful arena like this and not seeing it full of fans and having that breathtaking atmosphere?

I have got used to not playing with fans. I really respect the pandemic. It has changed the world forever. I got over not seeing fans in the arena’s quickly. I hope we can find a way to play through it next season with fans.

This was a huge win for Olympiakos Pireus. How realistic are the playoffs for the team?

I think it is always realistic. If we win out the rest of the games we can see what happens. It was tough having these growing pains and having that big losing streak. This Euroleague season has done wonders for me in that I could see how quickly things can change especially during a losing streak

Alba Berlin had the slight lead at the break. What was key for them having the lead?

This is their home and they are super comfortable here. It took us a while to get going. We have done a good job coming together as team this season. We weren’t concerned about their runs.

In the third quarter you guys fought back and retook the lead. What adjustments did the team make especially on the defensive end?

Key was slowing them down as much as possible. We knew that if we could get out on transition more, we could change the dynamics of the game. We did a good job exploiting this and staying aggressive.

In the fourth quarter you broke away and led by 10 points with five minutes to play. They made a 6-0 run and made it very exciting. What was key in the last minutes for you to pull out the win?

Key was staying calm and getting stops and getting to the free throw line. Sasha Vezenkov hit a huge three from the corner that sealed the deal. I was very happy that he hit that shot. If he hadn’t made that shot, it definitely could have changed the game as they had the momentum.

You limited Markus Eriksson to 7 points. How key was he in your game plan after he hit 10 three’s recently?

I played with him at Gran Canaria and know that he is a hell of a shooter. Sometimes guys that had the type of game that he had making 10 three, they tend to be less aggressive in the next game. He was aggressive, but just couldn’t get going. He hit some tough shots. We caught a huge break that he didn’t have a better shooting game.

Sasha Vezenkov exploded for 31 points and 10 rebounds. He had many big offensive plays, but was his block at the end his biggest play?

I don’t know. I think his block was equal with his three at the end. We see him doing this in practice all day. When he gets on a high and gets going it’s over. He never puts himself over others. He played only 26 minutes. He was tired and wanted to come out. He then came back later and made that huge three.

Sasha Vezenkov had his best Euroleague game as a professional. Was this performance something that was bound to happen?

Yes for sure 100%. I couldn’t have been more happy for him. I told him at halftime to keep going. When he plays like that then we are so hard to be beat. It really helps the team when he is so interchangeable at the positions.

You scored 9 points. How content have you been in general with your first complete Euroleague season?

This season has been very fun. I’m just learning to get my feet wet at this level. I’m continuing to understand the Euroleague game. Next year will be my coming out party. I really needed this year to see what is needed to become that impact player.

Did you see Coming To America 2? How did you like it and shouldn’t they just have stayed with the original?

Yes I have seen it. I saw the first one 20 years ago and I showed my wife the first one recently and she liked the second one. The second one obviously wasn’t as good as the first one, but it was good. Overall it was a feel good movie. It wasn’t a complete bomb. I wouldn’t make a third though.

Thanks Shaq for the chat.

Troy Simons is a 190cm guard that was born in Pittsburgh and is playing his professional rookie season with the Tigers Tuebingen (Germany-ProA) after having begun with PGE Spojnia Stargard (Poland-EBL). Currently with the Tigers he is averaging 11,7ppg, 2,0rpg, 1,3apg and 1,3spg. He began his basketball career with Renaissance Academy and then played at Polk State College (JUCO) from 2015-2017 averaging 17.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 79.1% and in his second season averaged 26.3ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.4apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 76.1%. In 20017-2018 he played with the University of New Mexico (NCAA) averaging 9.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.4apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.0%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 81.8%. He made one more change of scenery playing with Kent State University (NCAA) as a senior playing 31 games averaging 13.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 82.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Troy thanks for taking some time to talk to germanhoops.com. How did you experience the last 6 months and COVID-19. What was the biggest challenge that you had to take on?

The biggest challenge I had to take on was being on lockdown in my state. We weren’t allowed to do anything we couldn’t even go get food, couldn’t get in any facilities to workout.

You played your last NCAA game on March 9th against EMU. How tough was it ending your NCAA career so abruptly and what do you miss not having been able to do?

It was real tough because me and my teammates at Kent State had big plans. In our mind nobody could beat us and we were going to win the conference tournament so we could get a bid in the NCAA tournament. I miss not being able to compete with my team one last time.

How challenging was it finding a gym to stay in shape and being able to work on your basketball skills? Did you find some unique ways to work out and do certain exercises?

It was real tough because every gym in Pittsburgh was closed and they even took the outside hoops off the backboard so all any of us could do was work on our ball handling.

How do you feel did COVID-19 make you stronger as a man?

Yeah I believe it made me even more independent.

Congrats on signing with the Tigers Tuebingen of the German Pro A. You first signed in Poland but your passport wasn’t ready. Do you feel blessed now playing in Germany?

Yes I do. I believe everything happens for a reason. I didn’t have my passport in time for Poland because God had other plans for me here in Germany.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? Have you had friends or ex opponents play in Germany in the past?

All I know about was that Germany manufactured a lot of cars lol but on the basketball side I didn’t really know a lot only that it was a great place to start at as a rookie.

The Tigers Tuebingen are really high on your abilities. What convinced you that this club would be the right one for your rookie season?

Coach Danny had called me and talked to me for a while and told me what he was trying to do here to get back to the top league and I believed I could help him and the club do that.

What kind of an impression did you get during your first talks with head coach Danny Jansson? Does the fact that he is known for developing young players excite you?

My first talk with coach I could tell that he was about his business but also had a sense of humor. Yes it did excite me. I had a coach at Kent state named Randal Holt my redshirt season that actually played for coach Danny and he told me that coach would develop me into a better player than I ever thought.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 191cm shooting guard and your favorite player is Derrick Rose. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would it be?

I would say like Klay Thompson/ Daniel House.

Your 2 biggest strength is your shooting and defense, What other qualities do you have that help make you standout on the court?

I would say my passion and emotions while I’m on the court.

You shot 39% from outside in your senior year at Kent State. How confident are you that you can become a 40% plus shooter at the pro level?

I’m real confident. The way I know I can shoot the ball and the way I shot in the past proves it.

What do you feel is a hidden strength in your game that doesn’t always get noticed right away?

Me being able to attack of the dribble because every team I played for needed me for 3s and defense.

Was ball handling a big aspect of your game that you worked on this summer to be best prepared for the German Pro A?

Yes, you can never go wrong getting your ball handling skills better.

You played 2 years at Polk State College (JUCO). How challenging was it playing in this league? Guys often say that playing JUCO is tough, but it helped them a lot in their development. How was it for you?

It wasn’t really tough but it was definitely a lot more physical then what I had played before that. It definitely helped me become more physical for when I got to D1. It prepared my body for now.

In your second season at Polk State College you averaged a crazy 26.3ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.4apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 76.1%. You led the league in scoring despite playing 4 less minutes than the season before and averaged 9 points more. Talk about how this season made you more mature as a player

My sophomore year turned me into a leader first. My first time really having to lead and put the team on my back because of how young we was as a team. I had to lead by example.

You then transferred to the University of New Mexico (NCAA) averaging 9.9ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.4apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.0%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 81.8%. What was your wake up call to being in the NCAA where the JUCO was far away?

It was maybe a little bit faster than Juco and had to play more in a system there.

How crazy was it starting your NCAA career winning by a ridiculous margin of 71 points over Northern NM where there were 8 guys that scored in double figures? Is that a game that you will always remember?


Beating a team by that was a surprise to me lol and yeah I will always remember my first NCAA game.

You stayed only 1 season in New Mexico. Despite the short stay what positives did you get out of it?

The friendships that I made on that team. They were my boys even though we went through ups and downs that year we always stuck together as 1.

You then finished at Kent State University (NCAA) playing 31 games and averaging 13.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 82.6%. Your consistency as a scorer was spot on there. How do you feel did you grow as a player in your senior year?


Yeah I believe I did. When your percentage go up from the year before I believed you automatically grew as a player.

You had many exciting games at Kent State, but where does the exciting 72-71 win over Wright State rank where you had 16 points and 11 rebounds?

Yeah that game was wild, we were projected to lose that game against them but it’s definitely in my top 10 games I have played in.

How did head coach Rob Senderhoff groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I’m going to say the way he coached and his individual workouts with you 1on1 was very intense.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Anthony Roberts?

I’m going to say we are even in wins because we played 1on1 a lot in practice.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA or anywhere that went to the NBA?

DJ Kennedy or Dre Kane!

Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Antino Jackson (UNM), Booman Williams (KSU), Dj Porter (Polk State), Delvon Randall (AAU), Sam Longwood (UNM). It’s not in order

Please construct your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present players?

D-Rose, A.I., Kobe, Lebron, Shaq.

What is your personal opinion between the never ending debate between Michael Jordan and Lebron James concerning who is the greatest of all-time?

I believe if we were able to switch them too I think Lebron would have more championships than Jordan by far but Jordan was a great player but Bron is the goat in my eyes.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Teenage mutant ninja turtle.

Thanks Troy for the chat.

One thing that Jason Burnell can´t complain about is not having been near water in his life. Some people like the mountains, other people the big city life or even being in the middle of nowhere in Iowa. The American is a native of Florida and grew up in beautiful Jacksonville and went to school there as well as in St Petersburg. Ás a rookie overseas, he played in in the small city of Cantu, which was 2 and a half hours from the Mediterranean sea, but at least he could visit the historical Milan any day as he was only a half hour drive away. But he is never really far away from water as in his second professional season, he stayed loyal to Italy and signed with Banco di Sardegna Sassari. You can´t miss playing in Italy with all the beautiful cities and he found another great place to play at as he is living on the pretty island of Sardinia which is known for it´s sea, beaches, Folklore and Donkeys. He isn´t directly on the water, but about 10 minutes away from paradise something he can witness every day between practices. He definitely has enjoyed and cherished being able to experience the beauty of the island. “The nicest thing about living in Sardinia is the peace it brings. Being a Florida boy I’ve always found peace being close to water and Sardinia brings me that same peace“, stressed Jason Burnell. But not only water is big in his life, but also basketball the game that he loves. He like hundreds of so many other guys that are grinding overseas, and he has had a steep journey getting to where he is today. One could call it like a Cinderella story as he defied all odds going from JUCO and being told that he can´t play division one to the Serie A in Italy.

            Jason Burnell was born on August 15^th, 1997 in Deland, Florida. He grew up in Deland and went to Deland high school. As a junior he averaged 22ppg and 10rpg and was named player of the year. He finished his senior year at Providence School. He then decided to attend Georgia Southern University (NCAA), but got little playing time playing 23 games averaging 2.9ppg, 1.7rpg. He started off his NCAA career with a bang hitting Auburn for 19 points, but after that he never scored in double figures again and averaged only 8 minutes per contest. “I knew it was tough at Georgia Southern when I got there in the summer time. I was 17 years old my body was still maturing and it was tough. I had a lot to learn being a freshman and all but by the time the season came around I had gotten stronger and gained weight and I was becoming comfortable although my coach at Georgia Southern didn’t think I was very good. First game of the year I had 19 and I had a lot of confidence but I was also young and mentally very immature. After that game we started playing tougher competition and I definitely didn’t understand at that time how serious people took scouting reports. I didn’t know how to play against my own scouting report. That’s what separates the good from the great”, stressed Jason Burnell.  His freshman season was very difficult and at first glance from his stats and one to forget, but in the long run having this tough season helped him get to the point where he is today. “At the time it wasn’t much positive taken from that season. My coach didn’t think I was very good and it showed. I busted my ass every day in practice and it was like no matter what I did I couldn’t get on the court. Definitely was a low point in my life but the one positive I could take from it was my father. He was there for me. He told me I was a great player and told me that all the time and he believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Coach Byington looked me in my eyes and told me “You can’t play at this level” so I turned that into motivation and now look I’m still playing at a high level. I wish I could tell him thank you for saying that because it’s helped mold me into the player I am today and made me tougher mentally”, stressed Jason Burnell.

            The American who lists current Memphis Grizzlies star point guard Ja Morant as his toughest foe in the NCAA decided to take a few steps back and played JUCO which is the fifth college division. He stayed close to home and played at St. Petersburg College (JUCO). The competition wasn´t as tough as in the NCAA and his good stats of: 20.1ppg, 10.9rpg, 1.1apg, 1.6spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 20.7%, FT: 77.1% helped lift his self-confidence. Taking a few steps back seemed hard at first, but in the long run, it was an experience that helped him get back on track. “At first I was skeptical about going JUCO. I didn’t have no confidence in my ability as a player. My dad and godfather were the ones that helped me into making that decision. They told me to go JUCO and I trusted in them. They said I need to go to JUCO and “reinvent” myself. It was the best decision I could have made and I ended up building that confidence back up and I learned a lot from Coach Crumbley not just about basketball but life. I am grateful for him because he gave me a second chance without hesitation. He helped save my career because I was close to giving in and quitting. I didn’t think I was good at all but my dad, my godfather, and coach Crumbley thought the complete opposite. Thank God for them and what they did for me during that time”, remembered Jason Burnell. He picked up numerous awards and achievements in JUCO like Suncoast Conference Regular Season Co-Champion -17, FCSAA/NJCAA Region VIII All-Tournament Most Valuable Player -17, FCSAA/NJCAA Region VIII All-State Team -17, FCSAA Player of the Year -17, All-Suncoast Conference 1st Team -17, All-Suncoast Conference Player of the Year -17, NJCAA D1 District VIII Champion -17 and NJCAA D1 Sweet 16 -17.

            He finished his last two years in the NCAA with Jacksonville State University (NCAA) playing a total of 66 NCAA games. In his junior year he played 35 games averaging 11.2ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 78.8% and as a senior played 31 games averaging 17.0ppg, 9.6rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 79.9%. He made a massive step in his senior year and was blessed that a few people really cared that he become the best player possible. “The difference in my overall play from my junior year to my senior year were because of two people. Coach Scho the strength coach really helped me transform my body. I went from 225 pounds to 242 pounds. 17 pounds of muscle I gained in that offseason and it really helped me. When I go home during the summer I still go back to JSU to go workout with him. Another reason was Coach Harper. We had a long talk and he basically said he was expecting a lot from me for my senior year and he needed me to be more of a leader. I had to become more even keeled not get too high or too down and become mentally tougher and that’s what I did. I had an unbelievable senior year broke the single season scoring record and the single season rebounding record. My team also won the most games in JSU history in a single year. What I did in two years some couldn’t do in four. I left a legacy that will be hard to forget and those two played a huge role in that”, stressed Jason Burnell. In his two seasons at Jacksonville State, he scored in double figures in 50 games and had some monster games scoring 30 points against Belmont, Tennessee State and SIU Edwardsville. He had many great games in the NCAA, but there is one game that he will never forget. “I had so many nice memories on the court at JSU that it’s hard to pick one. I’ll never forget when we played Belmont the first game of conference play and I had a sprained Mcl. I could barely walk in the morning let alone run. I ended up playing and I almost had a triple double 19 pts 12 rebounds and 8 assists. I proved to my coaches that night my leadership and how tough I really am. My dad was watching the game on tv and anytime he gets to see one of my games and I know I make him proud it is the greatest feeling in the world! If I had to pick one moment that will probably be my most memorable”, said Jason Burnell. The American also knows his game wouldn´t be where it is now without having gotten the guidance and support from Ray Harper. “Coach Harper is a basketball genius. He taught me that it’s the little things that can make the biggest difference. My senior year at JSU I became obsessed with watching film and just watching the smallest details about my opponent and myself. He taught me not to just lead by action but to use my voice. The team relied on me a lot to make plays night in and night out and he showed that he trusted me by constantly putting the ball in my hands. Although Coach Harper and I bumped heads a few times our intentions were pure and I love him to death. Byington said I couldn’t play at the Division 1 level and coach Harper gave me the chance to do so. He saw something in me in JUCO that I honestly didn’t see in myself and he took a chance on me just like coach Crumbley did. All I needed was the opportunity and they both gave me that”, expressed Jason Burnell. His awards and achievements continued at Jacksonville State with OVC Tournament Semifinals -18, 19, OVC All-Newcomer Team -18, NJCAA D1 All-American 1st Team -18, CBI Championship Semifinals -18, All-OVC 1st Team -19, OVC All-Tournament Team -19, and NABC NCAA D1 All-District 19 1st Team.

            He remembers getting the best of Jacksonville State teammate Christian Cunningham in one on one duels began his professional basketball career in 2019-2020 with Acqua S.Bernardo Cantu (Italy-Serie A) playing 20 games averaging 11.7ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 61.8%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 72.4%. Coming overseas, a player always has to deal with adjustments concerning how the game is played and it wasn´t any different with him as physicality and foot work were two things that he had to get used to. But he was very fortunate that he played for an organization that had many Americans intact with veterans like Corban Collins and Joe Ragland who were always in his ear giving him the useful tips so his rookie year could be the absolute best experience. “My rookie year in Cantù was an unbelievable experience I enjoyed every second of it. For the longest it didn’t hit me that I was halfway across the world. My teammate and I (Kevarrius Hayes) used to joke around saying it felt like we were in Kansas not in Italy. For some reason it just didn’t feel that I was halfway across the world living and playing basketball in another country. It didn’t hit me until around October. I was having some personal inner circle issues going on and I had to deal with that all alone and that’s when it hit me that I’m not home. It definitely made me stronger mentally and emotionally and I’m thankful for that because God got me through it and I came out better on the other side. I also learned how to get through things and deal with issues without being home”, stressed Jason Burnell. He scored in double figures in 11 games and he had some unforgettable games against Trento scoring 24 points, hit Pesaro for 21 points, but a game he will never forget was exploding for 29 points against Fortitudo BO. “What I remember most about the game against Fortitudo Bolonga is me giving up the baseline drive at the end that cost us the game. I played unbelievable that game and didn’t miss a three and had my career high and still is my career high in scoring. Giving up that drive at the end was definitely heartbreaking. Having a game like that and not being able to come out with a win always hurt. I gave it all I had but I learned from it and it help me grow as a player”, said Jason Burnell.

            So let´s fast forward to the 2020-2021 season as the American who lists Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kevin Durant, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Shaq on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is playing for Banco di Sardegna Sassari (Italy-Serie A). Just like every other player, he also had to deal with COVID-19, but he has been able to cope and come out more potent as a man. “The pandemic has not been easy at all. Not being able to finish my rookie year was very frustrating and saddening. God makes no mistakes though. He has a reason and purpose for everything. I learned a lot in the process. You can’t take the simple things for granted such as going out to eat, going out with friends, playing in front of fans etc. I definitely came out much stronger mentally and I definitely try to live life to the fullest and play every game like it is my last because you just never know what can happen”, warned Jason Burnell. The club has performed very well in the Italian Serie A and reached the next round in the Basketball Champions League, but at a moment have an uphill climb. “The reason we have had success as a team so far this season is because we play very well together and off the court we are close. Poz gives us so much confidence and is an unbelievable coach. We trust one another and we all care about winning and we play for each other. We don’t have anybody that is selfish or puts their self before the team we are truly a team and we play as one. We are 0-2 in BCL right now but we have 4 games left and I like our chances. Zaragoza, Bamberg, and Nymburk all are great teams. Zaragoza played an unbelievable game and beat us at home. Nymburk hit a shot with a second left and beat us on the road but we have a lot of basketball left to play. We just have to prepare for the next one and learn from the losses and we will be fine”, warned Jason Burnell. The club suffered misfortune losing highly skilled American Justin Tillmann, but have picked up another American with Ethan Happ for the stretch run. “Losing Justin wasn’t easy and I hate that he had to leave but he had to do what is best for him and I have nothing but respect for that and him. Ethan has been instrumental to our team. Being able to get a player of his caliber this late in the year is rare. Ethan has fit right in and I’m excited for how good we will be when everybody is healthy”, stated Jason Burnell.

            The American who names Kevarrius Hayes (Cantù) Wyatt Walker (Providence) Joe Ragland (Cantù) Deion Johnson (Providence) and Corbin Collins (Cantù) as his best five teammates of all-time is in Germany for the first time as he is playing a Basketball Champions League game against Brose Bamberg. His ex teammate Corban Collins began his basketball career in Germany and Will Cummings who played for the same high school coach as Burnell had a massive season in Germany with the EWE Baskets in 2018-2019 as he led the easyCredit BBL in scoring. “This is my first time in Germany and I know very little about Germany. I took German language classes when I was in high school so I know a little German but It has been a while since I learned. From the basketball side, Dirk Nowitzki and Dennis Schroder both are from Germany. I know the BBL is a very competitive league like Serie A”, added Jason Burnell. The American is a player that liked watching NBA players Paul Milsap, Boris Diaw, Antonine Jamison when he was younger, because they weren´t the greatest scorers but got the job done. In his second professional season he is putting up very solid stats as in the Serie A he is averaging 13,0ppg, 6,6rpg, 3,7apg and 1,2spg while shooting 33% from outside and in the Basketball Champions League he is averaging 11,4ppg, 6,5rpg, 4,3apg, and 1,0spg. One part of his game has really taken off this season as his playmaking is more in the foreground. “The biggest difference in this year for me is I’m able to show my best skill which is passing. Scoring has never been something I focused on it just comes and rebounding is about effort and toughness and that’s what I am. My role on this team is just to play hard on both sides and bring energy. I just try my hardest to stay positive and Bring energy to the team. Poz’s system is PERFECT for me and he gives me so much confidence. I have great scorers inside and great shooters so I just try my hardest to get them the ball in their spots and put them in positions to score”, stressed Jason Burnell. He doesn´t only sparkle on the offensive end, but also is establishing himself as a type of lock down defender. “I take a lot of pride in defense. Defense isn’t anything but effort and toughness. My JUCO coach, Earnest Crumbley, taught me that. Ever since then I’ve became a better defender. Defense is something I take very seriously and personal. I’m a tough physical defender. I will never allow you to get anything easy and I always try to be in a position to help my teammates and sometimes that can be a weakness because I may help a little too much but I will get better and continue to grow and learn on the defensive end”, expressed Jason Burnell. He is on a very good route in continuing to climb the basketball ladder, but he also knows that he can´t take a day off and has that Black Mamba approach knowing that the grind to get better never ends. Just seeing guys like Kobe Bryant and Julius Randle grind every day has been an inspiration for him.  I’m always working. God gave me a talent and it would be put to waste if I didn’t work relentlessly at perfecting my craft. When I went home for the FIBA break I worked everyday and didn’t take one day off. If you want to be good at something you have to work at it and guys like Julius Randle have that mentality to constantly work to get better and elevate their game. Two things I’m working on most are being a more consistent efficient threat from the three and becoming more comfortable playing the ball screen. With the covid pandemic I wasn’t able to get in the gym as much this past summer as I wanted. So I wasn’t able to get as many shots up or work on ball screen situations but I’ve still been effective this year. I feel like once I become a better 3 point threat and become more comfortable using ball screens the sky is the limit. And I’m certain from now to the end of this upcoming offseason I’ll have those things down pact and become a much better player than I am now”, warned Jason Burnell. The American has defied all odds coming from the JUCO and being told he can´t play division one to being a force in the Italian Serie A, but his journey is far from over as this guy will continue to get better and climb the ladder. When he isn´t taking the extra time to work in the lab on his craft, he enjoys watching movie´s. His favorite flick of all-time is the Godfather a movie that he watches once a week. It would be the perfect setting if he played for Orlandina Basket, because they play on the beautiful island of Sicily where the Mafia was born. But instead he plays and lives on the pretty island of Sardinia that is a peaceful place. But all in all, one thing that both islands have an abundance of is water. He loves the tranquility of the water and feels like at home in Florida. He really has everything he needs to be comfortable and be able to perform his craft to the best of his ability and continue to develop further.