Having that special friendship among certain NBA players is something that is seen every now and then over the years. For example the Bromance between Golden State Warriors Steph Curry and Klay Thompson also known as the splash brothers for their sniper like shooting tendencies has been strong leading them to multiple titles even if Curry has stolen the spotlight from him. Lebron James and Carmelo Anthony have had a unique bond since both came into the league in 2003 or Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant who lteams to come together in Brooklyn and proclaim wanting to win a title together. Sometimes even the competitive nature of two guys battling at the same position and minutes won’t interfere as fans witnessed in Oklahoma City with Enes Kanter of Turkey and Steven Admas of New Zealand some years ago. Both got along so well that they grew mustaches and were named the Stash brothers. These very remarkable bonds don’t only happen in the NBA, but even overseas. One very exceptional friendship is between Icelandic players Elvar Fridriksson (182-PG-1994, college: Barry) and Martin Hermannsson. But the difference between their comradeship and others is that there’s began during childhood and is still strong in 2022. However their basketball journeys have been quite different. Whereas both have played at a high level, it was Martin Hermannsson that actually made it to the absoluteghest Euroleague. ‘Me and Martin have been best friends our whole lives. Our parents are very good friends so we grew up together. Spent a lot of time together and started our college journey together. I decided to go my own path and finish my degree but Martin went pro after 2 years of college basketball. It has been amazing to see what he has achieved and how well his process has been. That makes me very happy to see how successful he has been in Europe. He has shown that it is possible to make it to the highest level even though we are from a small country. It has definitely not been difficult to see him being successful because of course I want my best friend to be successful, it has made me very happy to see how well he has done. I have always had my goals and I am just working towards them without trying to follow someone’s path’, stressed Elvar Fridriksson. The memories that Fridriksson has of his best friend are unending. ‘Off the court we have spent so much time together, the vacation trips to Orlando we went on together with our families when we were kids and most recently spending New Years together in Valencia was also a great time so nowadays when we spend time together is always a great time. On the court was probably when we were starting our college journey together, playing in Madison Square Garden and a film crew from Iceland made a documentary about that game, that was pretty cool. Our youth National team games and being called up to the Senior National team together at the same time was all a great experience’, remembered Elvar Fridriksson. There is absolutely no animosity from Fridriksson, but total love and respect, but how could it be any different among guys like these who have each other’s back through thick and thin. ‘Our friendship is very close and has always been. We have gone a very similar path in life, with starting in Iceland, going to college together and then become professional basketball players in Europe so we share very similar lifestyles therefore we have a lot of things in common. But Martin is a great person, down to earth and always a joy to be around. He is a confident person and is a social chameleon, it is easy for him to connect with anyone’, warned Elvar Fridriksson.

Elvar Fridriksson who lists Martin Hermannsson, Sunday Dech, Marcus Tyus, Andy Van Vliet, and Kristofer Acox as his five best teammates of all-time was born on November 11, 1994 in Njardvik, Iceland. He began his basketball career with the UMFN Njardvik junior team and showed his talent early on being selected to the countries youth national teams where he balled with the U-16 and U-18 teams. He took part at the European Championship U18 Division B in Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina) in 2012 playing 9 games averaging 10.3ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 34.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 78.3%. At the same time, he gained valuable experience playing pro ball with UMFN Njardvik (Iceland-Express League) from 2011-2014 playing a total of 79 games and really improving his game each season. In his last two seasons he averaged 19.6ppg, 3.5rpg, 4.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 79.3%, and 20.8ppg, 4.3rpg, Assists-2 (7.3apg), Steals-2 (2.5spg), FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 41.6%, FT: 75.7%. Thinking what could have been hadn’t he made the step to the States in 2014 never crossed his mind. ‘It was very important to get a few years in the top division in Iceland, I was allowed to grow as a player and play through my mistakes on the court which gave me the opportunity to go play college basketball. It is not easy to go from Iceland to NCAA division 1 because the exposure is not big so I was lucky to get to that point. I don’t think about “what if ” I would have gone pro earlier because it was always a dream to go to America to play college and I do not regret that decision because I created great memories, made a lot of friends and gained experience that I would not want to miss out on. I also got a college degree which is important so the path I took I believe was meant for me’, remembered Elvar Fridriksson. He had some massive games in his second to last season scoring 36 points against Stjarnan and 35 points against Snaefell. In his last season he hit Thor Thorl for 37 points.

After getting good experience in his homeland, the guard who has had his share of competitive duels against friend Martin Hermannsson wining some and losing some decided to take on a new challenge and go to the States and play NCAA ball with LIU Brooklyn (NCAA) in the 2014-2015 season. He had a very solid freshman campaign playing 30 games averaging 8.9ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 40.8%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 71.1%. Despite having a convincing first season in the NCAA, he took a step back the next season to play NCAA 2 ball. But for him, it was a step he had to take. Staying in Brooklyn just wouldn’t have felt right. ‘It is rare to see a freshman who starts every game in division 1 and had a solid season transfer to division 2 school but I felt the situation was not right for me. I didn’t see myself finish all 4 years in Brooklyn so I decided to go to a school that would fit me better. I transferred to a school in Miami that had 8 European d1 transfers on the team so the level was very competitive. I don’t think I took a step down basketball wise because in my opinion the team I was on was better than I was on at LIU. A lot of top division 2 schools are better than some of the lower division 1 schools I believe. I enjoyed it very much to play basketball at Barry University so I do not regret the decision of transferring’, stated Elvar Fridriksson. He scored in double figures in 13 games including hitting Maine and New Hampshire for 19 points apiece. No great personal experience there could have been better than playing together with Martin Hermannsson. ‘My favorite moments in Brooklyn was to share the court with Martin and play with him for a season. That is an opportunity that doesn’t come often’, said Elvar Fridriksson. He then played three years at Barry (NCAA2) being able to improve his season average of scoring and rebounds each season and averaged 7,0apg in his last two seasons. He averaged 18.5ppg, 4.5rpg, 7.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 87.0% as a junior and 19.8ppg, 3.1rpg, 7.1apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 82.8% as a senior. He helped his school reach two NCAA 2 Elite 8’s. ‘Both runs were really sweet but losing a very tied game my senior year hurt more because I knew my college career was over and I wouldn’t get another chance’, commented Elvar Fridriksson. He played a total of 88 NCAA 2 games and scored in double figures in 23 of 25 games his senior year and scored 37 points against Embry Riddle, but topped that earlier in his career with 43 points against Tampa. But that wasn’t his most memorable game at Barry. ‘That game was for sure special and my best game scoring wise but both final games in regional championships probably stand out to me as my favorite games’, added Elvar Fridriksson. Being able to leave Barry and be ready to continue his professional career wouldn’t have been as easy hadn’t head coach Butch Estes been able to groom and prepare him the way he did. ‘Coach Estes gave me a lot of freedom on the court to develop as a player, I improved in the open court and to play 1 on 1 against taller and more athletic players’, remembered Elvar Fridriksson.

The Icelandic national player who rates current Dallas Maverick Luka Doncic as the toughest player he has ever faced on the court went back to Europe in 2018 to continue his professional career after 4 years in the States. He had never played professional outside of his homeland and now took on the challenge in France with Denain ASC Voltaire (France-ProB) averaging 4.8ppg, 1.4rpg, 3.2apg. It was a short stay, but the early growing pains were definitely a worthwhile experience in his continued basketball path for his development. ‘I was in France for 3 months, being a rookie in Europe is very challenging because the playing style is different. It takes time to adjust to the game but I only got two games in the regular season before they decided to get a more experienced point guard. It was a tough start to my career but the team needed a different type of player so I got to respect their decision and work even harder to be able to play on that level, so I had to go back to square one and go back to Iceland. Since then I have been in good situations to take steps in the right direction’, stressed Elvar Fridriksson. Even if his time in France was a learning experience and one where he had to pay his dues, being able to watch other talented guys like ex Missouri Southern State (NCAA2) great Marquis Addisson and learn was beneficial. ‘Of course I have followed his career, Marquis is a great guy and has worked really hard to get to the point where he is now. He has followed my path ever since Denain and he reaches out to me every season so we have followed each other. In France Marquis was one of the leaders of the team. He is a person that everyone wants to have on their team. He is a very competitive guy and a great shooter’, warned Elvar Fridriksson. He then returned home and finished the season in Iceland in a comfortable situation with to UMFN Njardvik (Dominos League) averaging 21.2ppg, 6.0rpg, 5.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 84.8%. He was very fortunate to have been able to experience Jeb Ivey’s last season before retiring. Ivey was a seasoned veteran who passed along vital attributes to him. ‘Jeb Ivey was playing his last season as a pro. He knew it was his last season but still his work ethic was unbelievable to see. He set the tone in every practice and made every drill competitive. It was great to learn from him and get to play with him his last season’, expressed Elvar Fridriksson. He definitely got his self-confidence back as he exploded for 40 points against Breidablik. In the next season in 2018-2019 he went to Sweden to play for Boras Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) where he didn’t disappoint finding his groove averaging 17.1ppg, 2.9rpg, Assists-1 (7.8apg), FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 78.6%. This was definatley a season he will never forget, because it helped his leverage on the basketball ladder and sort of got him better on the map in European basketball. ‘My season in Boras was very good, we had a good team and we finished number 1 in the league before the season was canceled due to Covid. It was a make or break season for me after a tough start in France so it was very important to get into a situation like I was in Boras. My confidence grew and I also had a great coach there that helped me a lot’, remembered Elvar Fridriksson. He scored in double figures in 27 of 31 Swedish-Basketligan games including 7 double doubles. He scored 27 points apiece against Djurgarden and Jamtland. Last season he played with BC Siauliai (Lithuania-LKL) being able to make another step in his game playing 36 games and averaging 15.3ppg, 2.9rpg, 7.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 77.6%. He was fifth in scoring and first in assists. For a player that already has a high IQ, playing in a country like Lithuania brought that part of his basketball knowledge to the next step. ‘I really enjoyed playing in Lithuania, unfortunately I played without fans in the arena but it was still amazing. The knowledge they have for the game is at a high level. Playing with veterans like Mindaugas Lukauskis and Kaspars Berzins was a good experience and I learned a lot from them. My coach at Siauliai was also a great teacher of the game, he taught me a lot of little details that helped me a lot so playing with and against players with high IQ definitely helped me get a better understanding of the game’, remembered Elvar Fridriksson.

So now let’s fast forward to 2022 as the ex Barry (NCAA29 standout who lists Lebron James as his personal GOAT played with the Telenet Giants Antwerp (Belgium-Euromillions League). and finished the season with Derthona Basket Tortona (Italy-Serie A). Despite playing for a great organization and city, the last two years haven’t been easy with Covid as he saw how it all developed in Sweden, Lithuania and then Belgium. It was a severe challenge, but one that also made him stronger as a man. ‘The biggest challenge on the court is to stay in rhythm because last season in Lithuania I spent a lot of time in and out of quarantine. Coming back from a 10 day break without practicing basketball breaks up the rhythm also here in Belgium I tested positive for the second time in 6 months so I am recovering from that now. Off the court it has been challenging to be without my family for a long time. There was a lockdown in Lithuania so I wasn’t able to see my wife and son for a long time so that was pretty tough. It definitely made me stronger, also made me appreciate the little things more. Trying to enjoy the moment more and have fun on the court’, warned Elvar Fridriksson. He has had the fortune to see new countries and leagues the last few years and it hasn’t been any different in Belgium. ‘It was a good experience playing in Belgium and also playing in a European competition. It is a completely different league from Lithuania so it took some time to adjust to the style that is played here. But I would say the level between those two leagues are very similar’, said Elvar Fridriksson. The Telenet Giants have won 14 titles and the ambition to perform very well is a goal for the team each season. ‘The long term goal is of course to finish as high as we can. We need to improve a lot of things and work hard to be able to play our best basketball when it matters the most. We aim high this season’, added Elvar Fridriksson. Over the years the club has had well known guys suit up like Jason Clark, Tremmel Darden, Paris Lee, Kevin Punter, or Michael Roll. It isn’t any different this season as the team got Markel Brown who played parts of three seasons in the NBA has given the team a push. ‘It has been great to play with Markel, he is a guy with experience from the highest level and he knows the game very well. I can learn a lot from him but whatever he did in the past does not give me confirmation that I can play at a certain level. I need to prove that myself with my game so hopefully I keep climbing the ladder and reach the highest level so I can show that I can play there’, warned Elvar Fridriksson. He also has worked his way into the Icelandic national team starting in 2013 and took part at the 2015 and 2017 European championships qualifiers, but had a limited role. But his role skyrocketed in 2021 at the 2023 European championships qualifiers as he played 8 games averaging 17.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.4apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 85.7%. He had a three point buzzer beater in the thrilling 86-85 win over Luxemburg and nailed Denmark for 30 points in a 91-70 win. He feels very much accepted by the national team now. ‘It was very important to get the trust from the coach and therefore I gained more confidence and more experience to play on that level which I believe will benefit me’, stressed Elvar Fridriksson.

The 182cm guard who lists Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, Shaquille O’Neal, and Steph Curry on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is a player where one could compare his game to a Facundo Campazzo or JJ Barea. He can score a lot, but also has put up high assist stats his whole life. But one couldn’t call him a pass first guard. ‘I would say a little mix of both, depends on the role that the team I am on needs me to play. I personally think when I am aggressive to score it opens up more passing options for me’, stated Elvar Fridriksson. He ability to create is very dangerous and will punish a team in so many ways with his playmaking. There isn’t one kind of pass that he prefers more over others. ‘There is not a specific assist that comes to my mind but I would say my favorite assist is when it gets the team going. A dump off or an alley-oop for a dunk or for a three point shot’, stressed Elvar Fridriksson. The guy can do so much more than just score and dish out dimes, but is an above average rebounder for his size and a very aggressive defender. ‘My strengths are using the pick n roll to create or score and in the open court where there is a lot of space to attack. That’s where I am most comfortable’, expressed Elvar Fridriksson. He is nearing his prime, but may have a few more years to go, but he has the healthy mind set and work ethic where he knows as soon as he doesn’t have the hunger to keep grinding in the gym, then it’s time to pack it in. He knows that he still has many area’s where he can still get better at. ‘The areas I can improve most is to cut down turnovers, better decision making and more consistency in shooting the mid range. With more experience I will also improve all parts of my game but those are the ones I need to work on to get to the highest level’, stressed Elvar Fridriksson. One thing is for sure, no matter where Elvar Fridriksson lands in the next years, his best friend Martin Hermannsson will continue to support him. ‘He is not only my best friend but also we have been pushing each other to get better all our lives. On the court it could get heated and messy sometimes but right after the game it was like nothing happened. We call each other almost everyday and there is nothing we don’t know about each other’, stressed Martin Hermannsson. Perhaps one day they will play on the same team again outside the Icelandic national team. Then they can have daily one on one matches. Iceland will never lose at the end of a match anywhere in the world.

Tags : ELVAR FRIDRIKSSON,

Rayshawn Simmons (192-PG-1993, college: CMU) is a 28 year old 192cm guard from St Louis, Missouri, that completed his fifth professional season and second in Germany with Science City Jena (Germany-ProA) playing 40 games averaging 10.6ppg, 3.5rpg, Assists-2 (7.7apg), FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 70.0%. In 2019-2020 he played with the Kangoeroes Basket Mechelen (Belgium-Euromillions League) averaging 9.2ppg, 4.0rpg, Assists-3 (5.5apg), 1.0spg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 83.9%. In his first year in germany he played with Team Ehingen averaging 11,5ppg, 3,4rpg and 9,4apg. He also played with the Logan Thunder (Australia-QBL) playing 18 games averaging 12.6ppg, 4.1rpg, Assists-1 (8.4apg), FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 76.2%. As a rookie he played with Orli Prostejov (Czech Republic-NBL) playing 15 games averaging 11.9ppg, 4.5rpg, Assists-4 (5.3apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 26.1%, FT: 71.2%. He began his basketball career with Moberly Area CC and then finished at Central Michigan (NCAA) playing 95 NCAA games over the course of three seasons and as a senior played 33 game averaging 12.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 5.0apg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 64.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the 21-22 season.

Thanks Rayshawn for talking to germanhoops.com. It has almost been three years since our last interview. Has time flown despite Covid?

Personally I feel like time has moved slow and two years has felt like five especially with so many changes in the world.

Congrats on a successful team season with Jena. Was the disappointment big losing in the semi-finals. The goal was too move up to the easyCredit BBL.

Yes, it was a disappointment for me. I didn’t expect anything less than a championship. But you need a little luck and luck wasn’t with us in the Semi Finals.

The team had a great start winning 11 of 12 games, but let up a bit at the end losing 6 of 11 games. The team was the fourth best defensive team during the season. Why did the team begin to give up more points?

I think we began to give up more points because teams started to get better and figured out some of our some of our defensive rotations.

How did you experience the very exciting 5 game playoff series against Paderborn. What will you always remember from that series?

I will always remember playing against my good friend Jordan Barnes who’s also from Saint Louis, Missouri (USA).

In the semi’s you met a very tough Rostock series. How key was their guard rotation? Was that depth the difference between the title and not?

I think Rostock was a balanced team, very similar to us but ultimately played at a higher level than we did.

Jena lost game 4 77-76. Where does that game rate in your toughest loses as a professional?

The last loss is always the toughest for me.

Is that game winner by Tyler Nelson that will be forever remembered in Rostock, one of those shots that you won’t forget either?


Yes, that’s a game I’ll never forget.

Let’s talk a little about your teammates. How cool was it being teammates with veteran Brandon Thomas? Was he like a mentor for you and what won’t you ever forget about him?

Being Brandon Thomas’ teammate is definitely one of my favorite and most memorable moments playing basketball. My respect level and appreciation for him is at an all-time high. I’ll never forget the way he carried himself and showed up everyday giving it everything he had in him everyday.

Alex Herrera has shown in the Pro A that he is a top forward. What did you appreciate most about his game?

Alex is one of those guys I’ve always wanted to play with and a workhouse. He’s mentally one of the toughest guys I know.

How key was the pick up of Davonte Lacy another player that has proven to be a top player in the Pro A. What did you appreciate most about his game and how did he help the team most?

Davonte was a great pick up for us. It allowed us to be a bit more dynamic. We could just throw him the ball and he could go score. He really pushed me to be more aggressive to score and especially shoot 3s.

Jena had some solid role players as veterans but also young guys getting some minutes. Which player do you feel developed the best this season?

I’d say Vuk developed the most over the season. He got better everyday and was a willing learner.

You sat out the 20-21 season. When you look back at this do you feel like this could have effected the further development of your game?

I think it affected the further development of my game in a positive way. It gave me time to sit back and reevaluate a lot of things. I ultimately came back a better player.

Two seasons ago you had a solid season in the competitive Euromillions league in Belgium with Kangoeroes Basket Mechelen averaging 9.2ppg, 4.0rpg, Assists-3 (5.5apg), 1.0spg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 83.9%. How would you compare the German pro A with the Euromillions league in terms of skill and competitive level?

The Belgian league is more physical and more skilled. There’s like 4-5 teams in that league that play internationally as well. I think the top 2 teams or so could compete middle to bottom of the league. Overall though, not the same level.

With Jena you played 40 games averaging 10.6ppg, 3.5rpg, 7.7apg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 70.0%. How content were you with your season? What kind of a grade would you give it?

I’d give myself a B.

What kind of a player is Rayshawn Simmons now in 2022 than you were in 2019 with Ehingen?

I am a more complete and confident player in 2022 vs 2019.

On what areas of your game will you work on most this summer so you can continue to climb the basketball ladder?

I will work on shooting and finishing as those are two areas that can really separate a player.

You had so many great games with Jena. What was your personal most memorable game? Possibly the 113-109 win over PS Karlsruhe?

That’s tough. Honestly there were a few. I’d like to say the game winner over Paderborn in the 1st Round of Playoffs has to be up there though.

You played against so many tough players this season, but who was the toughest?

I have to go with Jordan Barnes. Hometown guy. He put on a show this year.

What is your take on all the bashing guys like James Harden and Kevin Durant are getting?

I think it comes with the territory. People want to win and nothing else matters.

Is Luca Doncic a top 5 player finally or even a top 3 player now?

I wouldn’t go that far. He’s good though.

What is something special you plan to do this summer that you haven’t done in a while?

I plan to spend time with my son who’s 8months old. I haven’t gotten to see him much other than the time he visited me during the season with my grandmother.

Thanks Rayshawn for the chat.

In the NBA Summer League you have certain type of players situations that basically make out what type of minutes they will get. First you have the NBA Draft picks of that season that play heavy minutes, then you have the borderline NBA players that get a real good look, then you have rookies that somehow got hooked up to play and last but not least guys sometimes older and from overseas that also got hooked up and still are looking to somehow slip into the NBA. Daeqwon Plowden (6’6”-G/F-1998, college: BGSU, agency: One Motive Sports) of Bowling Green State who has Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Lebron James and Shaq on his personal own NBA Mount Rushmore is a rookie that got invited thanks to agent Drew Kelso’s good connections and played so well that the New Orleans Pelicans rewarded him with an exhibit 10 contract. Let me rewind a bit to September 2018. I was back home in Boston and wanted to see if I could connect with some of the Boston Celtics exhibit 10 players. With the help of German basketball insider Fabian Beierlein who seems to know everyone, he got me the number of Justin Bibbs a product from Virginia (NCAA) and we connected. We met in a hotel in Cambridge not far from the Red Auerbach training facility and he told me his basketball journey. I remember the happiness in his face about having this once in a lifetime experience and being able to share the court with Kyrie Irving and upcoming superstars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. I also bumped into other exhibit 10 players like Jeff Roberson who is currently balling in Germany with the MHP Riesen, and Nick King who last season played in the Italian Serie A. It was great seeing the zeal and carefree attitude that they had, because they knew they had absolutely nothing to lose. An exhibit 10 contract is a 1 year minimum salary NBA contract. This gives an organization the flexibility to make it into a 2 way deal, but the club has to make it happen before the start of the regular season. Exhibit 10 contracts are usually non guaranteed which means the team can waive the player. If a player doesn’t mind landing in the G-league after, having an Exhibit 10 contract can be beneficial, but if your wanting to latch on overseas after, it is a risk as most teams are completed for the new season. There are many guys that get these Exhibition 10 contracts and only a few number reach the NBA. It will be interesting to see where the journey will go for American Daeqwon Plowden. He knows that if he is just himself during his time with the New Orleans Pelicans then that will bring him the most success.

Daeqwon Plowden who couldn’t take himself and currently sees him and ex Bowling Green State teammate Trey Diggs tied in a 1-1 series is a 23 year old 198cm swingman from the city of brotherly love Philadelphia and left a mark at Mastery Charter Noth High School leaving as the all-time leading scorer. He was a 2 time Public League Liberty division MVP as well as a 2 time first team and all-state selection. In 2017 he was ranked in the top 100 at his position in the country by ESPN and was the 20th best player in Pennsylvania by ESPN in 2017. He then took the next step and attended Bowling State University where in 5 seasons he played a total of 153 NCAA games. He averaged only 18 minutes per game in his first two seasons, but in his last 3 seasons became a serious impact player averaging 32 minutes per game and was able to improve his scoring average each season. ‘I just felt like I came into the MAC not knowing how that level would be, but after watching some great players on both ends of the basketball and practicing against them helped me shape into an all around player’, added Daeqwon Plowden. He averaged 15,0ppg and 7,0rpg in his last 3 seasons and head coach Michael Huger was a massive aid in him being able to make the transition to the pro level on and off the court. ‘He mostly helped me become a better person before everything basketball wise translated over, but with basketball just what it takes to be a pro’, stressed Daeqwon Plowden. In is last 3 seasons he scored in double figures in 69 games in a total of 88 games. He had the number of the University of Miami at Ohio scorching them for 27 points in one game and hauled down 18 boards in another game. Taking care and dominating Miami at Ohio or many other games wasn’t his favorite moment at Bowling Green State, but moreover games where other guys could shine. I have never heard this kind of a quote from a player before. This just shows the type of first class character that he has. ‘ My favorite game was this past season when Isaac Elsasser and my other teammates that didn’t get a lot of playing time but were 2 feet into our program and devoted to helping us get better got in the games’, stated Daeqwon Plowden. After his stellar 5 year career he can look back at making 2 All-Mac third teams, one second team and once made the MAC all defensive team. He also set the school record for most games played and was the first player in the history of the program that logged at least 1,200 career points, 800 rebounds and 100 blocks. He also was 4th in club history in rebounds 935 and 4th in blocks with 126. He also reached the MAC final in 2019 and hit Michigan and Franz Wagner for 15 points, but what he will remember most from his long tenure is something that will last a lifetime. ‘Just the friendships I’ve built over the course of 5 years! Those relationships are long lasting and I plan on keeping in touch with everyone’, expressed Daeqwon Plowden. After his many achievements in the NCAA, it was only obvious that NBA teams took notice.

After his last NCAA game on March 4th against Toledo where the athletic player that list currently -Justin Turner, Caleb Fields ,Antwon Lillard, Marlon Sierra, and Dylan Frye as his 5 best teammates of all-time was invited to some NBA workouts by the Pelicans, Utah Jazz and Washington Wizards. He passed the test with the Pelicans and prompt was rewarded with a 2022 NBA Summer League roster spot. So there he was in Las Vegas one of the most spectacular and glitzy cities in the world, but gambling was far from his mind unless if it had to do with getting into a passing lane or not. In his first game against Portland, he found action playing 3 minutes and making 2 free throws. Most important in this first moment of breathing NBA air wasn’t self, but how he can help his team most. ‘Just being a good teammate really! No matter if I’m in the game or on the bench, but the type of energy I bring allows me to be involved and supportive to our group. I wasn’t nervous because I’ve played this against all levels of competition all my life and that day was another day I get to play again. My preparation for the summer league was great so I didn’t have anything to be nervous about as long as I trusted my game and what I’ve worked on’, remembered Daeqwon Plowden. Instead of getting a DNP in the next game or again little minutes, the club showed extreme trust in his abilities as he played 24 minutes in a big 101-73 victory over Atlanta scoring 16 points on 5/7 shooting and hauled down 6 boards and swatted away 1 shot. ‘It felt good! It just showed that I am versatile on both ends of the floor and willing to do what’s necessary to win. Anybody can get a confidence boost solely from seeing a few shots go in. For me, it just came from knowing how I prepared for my opportunity. Defense is also a fueling thing for me, so when I am disrupting people on the defensive end it gives me a confidence boost as well. I went in expecting nothing but to support my teammates regardless. If I’m getting playing time that’s a plus. I felt like being in the Pelicans Organization a good amount leading up to the Summer League helped that be possible’, expressed Daeqwon Plowden. Once you hit that first shot and the basket looks like the ocean and find yourself in a flow, the perception of your teammates about you changes. You suddenly become a scoring option. I feel like that is a common thing. Once guys get going and have the hot hand its second nature to get the ball in their hands, so for me it was something like that once I showed that I can make and create shots’, added Daeqwon Plowden.

The versatile player that remembers NBA player EJ Liddell being his toughest cover in the NCAA had a rise in self-confidence and again had a potent game in his third try against Washington scoring 18 points on 6/9 shooting, had 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal in 21 minutes of action in a 106-88 win. He once again held his own against guys that have played overseas like Pierria Henry and Pat Spencer or against other experienced players like Jordan Goodwin, Craig Sword, Devon Dotson and Jordan Schakel to name just a few. ‘It just goes back to preparation and understanding how to get what I want. Just like they have experience, I have experience as well and I think that was the biggest thing when playing against other high level guys, but also getting help from my teammates. They continued to talk me through different situations with defensive and offensive reads, so I am grateful they were there to help me through those situations’, said Daeqwon Plowden. Even if the NBA Summer League is very short, there is still enough off court time where players can form relationships with one another. He was teammates with athletic Elijah Stewart who has carved out a solid career overseas. ‘I feel like I formed a relationship with all my teammates during the summer league. Elijah was one of those players. Great guy who has experienced a part of the world that I have not and is knowledgeable and down to earth type of guy. Great to meet him and play alongside him throughout the Summer League’, remembered Daeqwon Plowden. He missed the last two games, because he wasn’t totally fit to play. After 3games he averaged 12,0ppg and 4,0rpg while shooting 50% from downtown. ‘I would simply say the Summer League was a success. I went in and built some new friendships and I’m proud of that. I feel like I am the same player before and after Summer League, but I feel like my biggest improvement is my experience I gained playing in an NBA system’, warned Daeqwon Plowden. Attributes like his drive, three pointer, athleticism and defense stood out, but the most important thing he left behind for the NBA was something you won’t learn from a coach. ‘I think my competitive nature and how hard I play stuck out. Those are things that cannot be taught, so when someone is showing high levels of that it sticks around’, stressed Daeqwon Plowden. His NBA journey is just beginning now and the next months will be very interesting and exciting. He knows exactly what to do so his success will continue at the NBA level. ‘Continue to be me as a player! I think that’s the best advice my coaches reminded me of because when I’m being myself everything feels good while I’m performing. It’s less to think about when I’m being myself out there, but it was great to hear that from my coaches’, added Daeqwon Plowden. It’s obvious that a player’s agent is their biggest fan and it isn’t any different with Drew Kelso of One Motive Sports. ‘I’m unbelievably proud of Daeqwon for agreeing to terms with an NBA organization like New Orleans. He had been so overlooked during this whole Pre Draft process and we knew all he needed was a chance to shine and obviously he did at Summer League. I truly believe he has a chance to play at the highest levels in the world for a very long time. Terrific player, but a better person. He’s the best kid we’ve ever had. That’s what’s going to carry him”, stressed Drew Kelso. Having the skills is half the rent, but if you also have that special character then you have the whole package. Daeqwon Plowden is definitely a guy worth keeping on the radar. He will go places.

Tags : BRYCE TAYLOR, HAMBURG TOWERS, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Bryce Taylor (195-SG-1986, agency: BeoBasket) is a former professional player that enjoyed a fruitful 13 year career playing in Italy as a rookie and the last 12 years in Germany with the Telekom Baskets Bonn, Alba Berlin, Artland Dragons, FC Bayern Munich, Brose Bamberg and the Hamburg Towers. He began his career at Harvard Westlake high school before embarking on a 4 year career at Oregon (NCAA). Last season he got his first coaching experience in the NBA with the Indiana Pacers and now is an assistant coach with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his memories of Rickey Paulding.

Thanks Bryce for talking to germanhoops.com. When you hear the name Rickey Paulding what is the first thing that you think about?

Longevity, Excellence, Leadership, Competitor, Sportsmanship.

You came into the BBL in 2009 the year after Rickey Paulding won his only BBL title. What do you remember hearing about him that first season in Bonn?

I used to watch him play on TV in college, his team U of Missouri Tigers was really good so they were on national tv quite a lot and I remembered his game from that time. And then coming to Bonn, who had just lost in the BBL Finals to Oldenburg, I heard a lot about him and their team. He was still young at that time so he was an incredible athlete and slasher, but he could also shoot the ball from deep. He was a nightmare matchup.

Your last game against Rickey Paulding was in 2021 with the Hamburg Towers losing 89-88. What do you remember from that game? Despite his old age then he belonged to the best players on the court that day.

I remember going to Pedro Calles, our coach, the day before the game and telling him I wanted to match up with Paulding. He was going to have Kameron Taylor guard him, but I knew Rickey’s game very well after many years of battles. I think we defended him well as a team that game, but he always found ways to get it going even on his ‘off’ nights.

Did you have any closing words for him maybe telling him your time was about to end as a player or was it the typical good game see you next season bla bla?

We spoke about it before the game during warm ups, I was going back and forth with myself about leaving Germany and we discussed that possibility. Rickey Paulding retired with 40 years of age.

You played against a lot of great players in Germany that played a long time like Derrick Allen for example, but did you ever see a guy like Rickey Paulding that was able to play so well at a high level for his age?

I have never seen an athlete of Rickey’s caliber, perform at such a level for that long, without sustaining any major injuries. And I doubt we will ever again either. What he accomplished as a player is incredible.

Do you believe that you had a record above or below 500 against Rickey Paulding?

My guess would be about .500

You were 8-9 in your career? The first game that you played against Rickey Paulding was in the 2009-2010 season and you lost that first game badly. What do you remember from that game?

I don’t remember the exact game but I remember every time we played against one another, I had to bring my best focus and energy to that game.

What was your personal fondest memory against him as a player? I can imagine that thrilling 5 game playoff series that you won with FC Bayern Munich?

Yes, that series was awesome. We got up 2-0 and Rickey, Julius Jenkins, Dru Joyce, Adam Chubb fought back and ended up bringing them back into the series. They ran out of gas in Game 5 but it was a really competitive and fun series. What I appreciated about Rickey is that he would drop 30 points on you, and he would never say one word of trash talk. He would just keep the same facial expression and encourage his teammates with a positive demeanor. It made him impossible to dislike.

What kind of a legacy will Rickey Paulding leave in German basketball? Will we ever see another player like him be able to remain with 1 club for as long as he did?

Basically Rickey is like the Kobe Bryant (RIP) of the BBL, I don’t know that the league will ever see a player of his talent level and professionalism play in the BBL for that long again, let alone for the same club. Most players as good as him will leave the league after a couple of seasons, but he made Oldenburg his home and helped them build a top level basketball organization.

Please leave some closing words for Rickey Paulding?

I wish Rickey all the best on his next chapter of life and I am sure he will enjoy the new experiences with his family in America. I also thank him for what he did for our league, bringing continued growth and respectability to basketball in Germany. I think figures like him are very important for the development of our sport. I am confident I will be seeing him soon in Oldenburg this season.

Thanks Bryce for the chat.

Tags : BRYCE TAYLOR, HAMBURG TOWERS, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Tyler Creammer (208-C-1997, college: VMI) is a 25 year old 208cm center from North Carolina that has professional experience having played in countries Denmark, Slovakia and Austria. He began his basketball career with South View High School and then played at the Virginia Military Institute from 2016-2020 playing a total of 117 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Tyler for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

Thank you for your time and for setting up this interview. I’m currently back home in North Myrtle Beach, SC preparing for the new season. Life in basketball is good, I feel BLESSED to be able to play professional basketball and I’m excited for my 3rd season as a pro.

After not winning a title in the NCAA or in Denmark, you came closer in Austria reaching the semi-finals and cup final. I can imagine your urge to win a title now has risen?

The urge to win and compete for titles is the goal of every professional player. No one likes to get so close and lose. There is some positive in coming so close and falling short though. The experience I gained of getting to the cup final and the playoff semi-finals helped me grow as a player. I just look forward to helping future teams win with the experience I gained in Austria.

Does that change your outlook immensely when searching for a team?


No, I am hungry for any opportunity to help a team win and continue to prove myself as a player.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 208cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I think the NBA is so much different than professional basketball in Europe. I tend to watch the Euroleague big men a lot more. Watching them really inspired me to work on my game more and develop the skills necessary so that I can play the 4 and 5. If I had to pick an NBA player to compare my game to though it would be Domantas Sabonis.

Is it fair to say that you are a modern day big? How have you seen the development of your outside shot?

I would like to think of myself as a modern day big. I always had a soft touch but my coaches in Denmark really helped me to develop my confidence more to where I felt comfortable shooting on the perimeter. I carried that confidence into my summer workouts back home in between my 1st and 2nd year as pro. All the hard work manifested last year with a good shooting percentage from the 3 point line. So a big thank you to Jeffrey Fawme, Erez Bittman and Colin Stevens.

You can score and rebound. What other strengths does your game have?

I think of myself as a leader given my military background. I believe that I’m a solid defender especially 1-on-1 in the post, I can hold my own against other bigs even on the perimeter. Also I think I am a good passer and a shot blocker

. Where do you see your development as a defender at the moment? What kind of defender do you still want to become?

I think of myself as a solid defender. I can hold my own against bigs in 1-on-1 situations, also against 4 men on the perimeter. I want to continue to get better at my lateral movement and at guarding smaller players.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to climb the basketball ladder?

I want to continue to get more comfortable on the perimeter and to continue to grow my skills as a 4 man as well.

You began last season with BC Prievidza (Slovakia-Nike SBL) averaging 16.9ppg, 11.8rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 69.8%: You had great stats but won no games. Did you become the scapegoat and have to go?

No, that was not the reason for me leaving the club. The whole time the management and coaching staff were thankful for my efforts as a player. When the new coach came in, he wanted to bring his own players in. He had not built the original roster. So most of the original imports were cut.

How tough were these months putting up good stats but losing? What do you believe you learned from this experience?

It was very tough and being one of the best players on the team you feel responsible for every loss. I think that this experience taught me to continue to push and give your all every game. Also to value every possession in the game because you never know where a game will be decided or what will be the winning play. You see so many good teams win games and you can sometimes take winning for granted. I for sure gained a deeper appreciation for winning.

You then moved to Unger Steel Gunners Oberwart (Austria-BSL) averaging 8.1ppg, 5.9rpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 66.2% and bang winning came easier. But you averaged 16 minutes less. Was it tough making this adjustment?

It was not tough for me. I was happy and felt privileged to have the opportunity to join the Oberwart organization. It was all about finding a role on the team and settling in. We had the max number of imports on the team and we usually played 10 players every game. The minutes were split and divided up amongst us, so I just tried to bring toughness, energy and rebounding to the team. To do whatever necessary to help the team win games.

How proud were you of the team that really locked down on defense in the last 2 games against Kapfenberg allowing an average of only 47 points per game?

I was really proud of the team and our effort. We were upset about dropping Game 2 on the road in Kapfenberg. We wanted the sweep coming into the series. So in Games 3 and 4 we really wanted to set the tone, not give Kapfenberg any hope and shut them down.

You played Gmunden tough but how instrumental was the 83-81 loss in game 1? Do you believe the series could have taken a different turn had you won game 1?

It was a tough loss for sure. The whole complexity and situation of the series changes if you take Game 1 especially since we played in Gmunden. I think the series could have been different had we won but we will never know.

You played your rookie season with Copenhagen Basketball (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 13.5ppg, Reb-1 (12.0rpg), 1.7apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 11.5%, FT: 69.9%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I think my wake up call was when we played Svendborg in the 2nd game of the season. I struggled in that game. I also was dealing with the fact that both of my parents were fighting for their lives with COVID during the same time. It was a tough stretch for me mentally as I just felt helpless and was feeling sorry for myself. Jeffrey Fawme, my coach, really helped me through that dark time.

What memories do you have of teammate Bakary Dibba who played in the German pro A last season? How did you see him grow as a player and how much potential does he have?

Bakary Dibba was one of my friends on the team and I really tried to push him to be better in every practice. I think that he could reach the highest levels of European basketball if he keeps developing.

Does a game against a powerhouse like Kentucky in your junior year at Virginia Military Institute where you had 13/5 stats and held your own against future NBA guys like Washington, Quickley and Hero always give you confidence when you’re having a bad day? What memories do you have of that game?

Playing at Kentucky will forever be a highlight in my basketball career. I think my favorite memory of that game was shooting free throws and the crowd was so loud that my vision was shaking. I managed to hit both of my free throws somehow but it was still very nerve racking. Also, just the overall memory of playing against so many future NBA guys was nice and it does give you confidence to know you held your own.

You played a season with QJ Peterson. Why isn’t this guy in the NBA? Is this a good example of how there are 1000’s of great guards in the world and too few NBA spots?

I think you and I both are wondering why QJ isn’t in the NBA. I think he has more than enough talent to be there. If anything it just shows how competitive the NBA is and how few spots there are every year. I hope that he gets a shot in the near future.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

It was PJ Washington. He is so fast and explosive for his size. It really makes you appreciate how gifted athletically and skills wise NBA players are.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?


Bam Adebayo, QJ Peterson, Miles Bridges, Dennis Smith Jr, Justin Robinson

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Shaq, Tim Duncan

What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?

Personally, I think it is like the Messi vs Ronaldo debate. Both players are generational talents. Why can’t we just appreciate greatness while we can still experience it because one day they will not be playing any more.

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Should they have left it alone?

No, I did not see the sequel. The original is a classic like you said and I enjoy it every time I see it on the television. It never gets old!

Thanks Tyler for the chat.

Tags : TYLER CREAMMER, U