Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Derrick Alston in Frankfurt in 2022

Derrick Alston Jr. (206-SF-1997, college: Boise St.) is a 25 year old 206cm forward from Houston, Texas playing his second professional season and first with the Rostock Seawolves. Last year with Rostock he averaged 15.4ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 32.8%, FT: 80.4%. He played his rookie season with the Salt Lake City Stars (NBA G League) averaging 16.6ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 81.4%. He began his basketball career at Strake Jesuit High School and then played at Boise State (NCAA) from 2017-2021 playing a total of 104 games averaged 17,0ppg in his last 2 NCAA seasons. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the win over Bonn

Congrats Derrick on the massive 98-92 win over the Telekom Baskets Bonn. Is it fair to say that Rostock is playing it’s basketball of the season in the last 5 weeks?

Thanks very much. I wouldn’t want to necessarily say that, but we have made a big jump recently., We are learning how to play better with each other and getting a better feel of what it takes to win. We have found our groove better in the last couple of weeks. We want to keep making progress.

The game was dead locked at 51-51 at the break. What do you feel was giving the SeaWolves the biggest problems on the defensive end?

We had a difficult stretch at the end of the second quarter and had problems securing the defensive rebound. They were running some plays that were confusing us. The game was at ahigh pace and there was a lot of scoring occurring.

For the most part of the third quarter Bonn had the lead as Rostock was unable to get over the hump and then your big dunk came. Was that play the turning point of the game despite Bonn still leading by 3 points after three quarters?

Yes I think so. The third quarter wasn’t the cleanest for us and we had a little lull to begin. That was a great play and it helped us in moving ahead and being able to finish the game well in the last quarter.

What do you remember head coach Christian Held telling the team to do for the fourth quarter?

He told us to continue to defend, move the ball and finish possessions.

In the fourth quarter Chris Carter began the charge with back to back baskets. How vital was his burst of energy. Have you ever seen a more dedicated player? A guy who could and should play 30 minutes a game but instead accepts his role of lesser minutes?

Chris has been huge for us all season as well as least season. He is a big leader and always does what the team asks of him. His 2 buckets were big for us. His sacrifice, dedication and work ethic rubs off on all of us.

Crunch time was very exciting in that the Telekom Baskets Bonn never gave up. You iced the game with a three pointer and Chevez Goodwin put icing on the win with free throws. How much is crunch-time Derrick Alston Jr. time?

I always look forward to crunch-time. I always call it winning time. It is my favorite part of the game. I always want to make that pivotal play on offense or defense. The three pointer gave us the momentum at that time. Chevez and I always practice our free throws together and I was really happy he made them.

Beating Bonn was huge. Another big win after beating Ulm. How vital was this win in terms of really how good Rostock really is?

We continue to show that we can compete with any team in the BBL. We also continue to show that we can be near the playoff range. We want to be playing ell now so we can finish the season strong. We are seeing now how good we can really be when we can use our capabilities.

The team is averaging more than 100 points in the last 3 games. What has been crucial for the team being able to score even more now?

Realistically we just take what the defense gives us. We have many weapons at each position and we just try to exploit the weaknesses of the opponent. I think like we are becoming more comfortable with the coverages that teams show us. We are learning how to take advantage of it and developing a good flow on transition and in the half court.

Let’s talk a bit about your teammates. How blessed is the team to have big man Chevez Goodwin? What have you appreciated most about his game?

He is a super versatile player and big energy guy. His versatility is a big weapon for us. But the biggest thing for us is learning how his game can be most effective for us. It is really a lot of fun playing with him.

Last season the club had great guards, but what kind of dimension does the team have this season with Wes Clark and Eric Lockett?

What those guys have given us on offense has been huge. Wes is very dynamic on offense and is also like another leader for us. Eric is the ultimate glue guy. We can use him in so many ways at both ends.

Your playing your second season for Rostock. Is it fair to say that this is your team this season? You’re the leader of the team.

I would say that my role is similar to last season. The only difference this season is that I’m just more comfortable with everything. I know the league, teammates and coach a lot better. I also feel like I have taken a big step as a leader as well. Offense is my strong point, but I’m also trying to help guys on the defensive end get more comfortable with the system.

Your playing three minutes more and are averaging 4 points more than last season. Has your role grown?

My offensive role grew and I’m asking to do a little more. I really cherish this role very much. I’m not trying to force my game but use my versatility as best as I can.

Your averaging 2 assists more. You have become more of a playmaker despite averaging more points. Do you like that opportunity to facilitate more?

Yes 100%. I just try to do what the defense gives me. I think my height and IQ really helps me read the defense better. My teammates also know how to play better with me at this point of the season.

By the way your playing this season, your still making a push to reach the NBA. Do you feel like NBA scouts have you on their radar?

Maybe. When I came to Europe, I never had that NBA door closed. I just want to continue to grow and learn how my game fits in best in Europe. I think what I’m doing overseas is being noticed back home. I just want to continue to make steps.

How do you enjoy the holiday season in Germany. What is the nicest thing on X-mas in Rostock?

The Christmas market is always a fun time. I have to give a big shout out to the family of Oshane Drews who hosted a lot of the Americans for Christmas dinner. It is always nice for Americans not to have to be alone.

Do you have any New Year’s resolutions for 2024?

I don’t really do them. I just want to stay true to myself, show kindness and not take everything too serious.

Thanks Derrick for the chat.