DJ Woodmore (190-SG-1992, college: VWU) is a 31 year old 190cm point guard that is playing his ninth professional season and 7th with the Ahorn Basket Bis Baskets Speyer. Last season with Speyer he averaged 16.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 3.1apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 86.6% and the season before 15.5ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 81.0%. In the 2020-2021 season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz he averaged 13,3ppg, 6,0rpg, 4,3apf and 1,3spg. In 2019-2020 with the 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 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). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Pro B game against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors.

Thanks DJ for talking to germanhoops.com. I have been following your career since your rookie season in Germany. How many interviews do you think have we done up until now?

I would say 20 something.

It has been 27 interviews. Your playing your 9th pro season and 6th season in Speyer. In the Pro B you get a 2 week break? Were in Germany or in the states?

Yes! Crazy it’s been so long. I remember when the breaks used to be longer. But this Christmas I was in Germany. Went up north to Bremen.

How did you celebrate New Years Eve and do you go into the new year with New Year resolutions?

Didn’t do much this year, very relaxed. Just made dinner with my girlfriend and watched some movies all day. I usually like to set a few goals for myself each year. Helps me to stay focused and hold myself accountable to reach them.

It hasn´t been a great season so far for the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer. It has had 2 2 game winning streaks, but has lost 4 of the last 6 games. How would you summarize the season so far?

Still a work in progress. We have a very young team this season, but it feels like things are now falling into place. Will be a better second half of the year for sure.

The team scores points well, but also allows many points. What is still missing to say being able to allow 70-75 points per game?

I think we have to find a way to collectively rebound. Only having one true center leaves is vulnerable at times. But we’ll find ways to adjust.

It seems like the team has lost depth the last 2 seasons? How different is it to compensate that and stay in games for 40 minutes?

We just have to adjust our style of play a bit. But I think some of the younger players are ready to take the next step. Once we get them up to speed, I think you’ll see a change.

I believe as soon as German Christoph Rupp steps up his game, he could be the missing link to having an even more potent offensive attack. Is he still getting a feel for the new team?

Yes I agree, he’s experienced and a team first guy. Once we get him on the right track, I think we’ll see things become a lot easier offensively and defensively. He’s been doing a great job thus far with stats you don’t see in the stat sheet. But the shots are going to fall soon.

2 years ago you had Cardenas and Omojola. Would you love to have 2 guys of that quality back?

I would love to have those two back. But I think we have a good group now. Just in different ways. Chris is turning the page and Carlos has been solid all season. Dennis and Simon are defensive stoppers and the Pisic brothers can really shoot it.

You and Carlos Hidalgo are the 2 main scoring threats. Do you feel like teams will know how to slow you 2 down better in the second half of the season in the second time around?

I think we’ll be ready. I’m sure teams have been scouting us all season so far, but we’ve been able to find ways around it. Once some other guys get involved, it’ll help free us up a bit.

How much fun is it playing with Spanish guard Carlos Hidalgo. How do you guys compensate each other best and what do you appreciate most about his game?

Always nice to play with a pass first point guard. Makes my game easier so I don’t have to go 1 on 1 so much. I love his unselfishness and leadership. And he’s not afraid of the moment, offensively or defensively!!

Another player who has stepped up is German big David Aichele. How have you followed his development in the last years in Speyer?

He’s been improving for the last few season drastically. He blocks and alters shots so well, that it cobwebs up some of the mistakes the guards make on defense. It’s easy knowing you have a seven footer behind you. Offensively he’s still finding his form. But we need him to be a beast down there.

German David Pisic has made huge strides coming from the Regionalliga 2 to Pro B. What have you learned to appreciate most about his game?

The work ethic is almost robotic. He’s the last one to leave the gym everyday. He never gets too high or too low. But he shoots the ball with the best of them. If he’s open, I think it’s going in every time.

Your having another great season. You have improved your scoring average each season since 2021. Does your increase this season have to do with you having to have to score more?

Maybe a little bit. But I’ve been working on my game a lot in the off-season and during the year. I’m having to score a little more, but I try my best to remain efficient. Percentages are important for me. Let´s me know if I’m taking good shots or bad shots. But my teammates trust the ball being in my hands and I try to make the right play each time.

A big reason for your consistency has been staying healthy and putting in the work. Does the work out and practices still give you as much joy as say 5 years ago?

Absolutely. I look forward to playing everyday. I’d be lying if I said I still enjoy the running and conditioning part of it, but I’ll deal with it in order to stay ready to compete. I have been fortunate to be injury free. Hoping that stays the case. But each week, I’m trying to be better than the last.

Your continuing to shoot the ball very effectively from outside. You have proven that you’re a 3 level scorer. When do you feel did you get the 3 level scorer definition?

I’ve always been a threat from the outside and midrange. But over the last years I’ve been trying to work on my ball handling and one on one ability. I think since the end of last season I’ve noticed a change and it’s shown this year. Now just need to work on getting to the free throw line more.

In our last interview you said all you care about now is winning titles. How difficult is it motivating ones self each day when you know that the team material isn´t championship calibur on paper?

It can be frustrating at times but I believe we’re always good enough to compete against the best. Maybe that’s a bit of being overly confident, but I always play with the mindset. On paper is different than on-court. That’s what counts.

You told me in our last interview that you will keep playing until the wheels fall off. How well secured are your wheels in 2024?

Very!! body feels fine. Diet is improving and motivation is extremely high!

You swept the Fraport Skyliners Juniors last year for the first time in your career with Speyer. How good does it feel coming back this season to Frankfurt?

Completely different team this year. Felt like we were one or two plays away from winning last game against them. But we’ll be ready this time around.

Last season you won on a buzzer beater by Quadre Lollis Jr. What memories do you have of that game?

I remember coach had drawn the play for me to get the ball for the last shot, but I thought Q had the better match up. We changed it a bit in the timeout. And the inbound play worked perfectly. Q with his signature step back over the defense.

Frankfurt lost playmaker Philipp Hadenfeldt, but still have a deep team. What will be key to getting the win?

I didn’t know they lost him, He just gave us a great game two weeks ago. He really makes them go, along with the Tre and Alvin. I’m sure they’ll have some guys ready to step up. We just have to stay focused for 40 minutes. No matter who plays for them.

Carl Mbassa was always your coach in Speyer. What is something about him that not many know about?

Coach is still a beast, 45 years old and like 3% body fat is unreal. True story but he can still dunk. I ask him to show me every year and he still makes it look easy!!

Thanks DJ for the chat.

Everage Richardson (191-G-1985, college: Coastal) is a 38 year old guard that has played 15 years overseas in only 3 countries with Germany, Luxemburg and Iceland. In his time in Germany he helped the Bodfield Baskets move up from the Landesliga to the Regionalliga. He averaged 47,0 and 48,0ppg in 2 seasons there. He continued to demonstrate his scoring skills never averaging less than 25,0ppg in Luxemburg for Residence Walferdange. He has played in Iceland the last 6 years for 4 different clubs and continued to never average less than 18,0ppg. He began his basketball career at Washington Irving high school and played 2 years at Sullivan County Community College and then played 2 seasons at Coastal Carolina College playing 46 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Everage for talking to germanhoops.com.

Hey miles thanks for the interview. Basketball and life is treating me fine and I can´t complain I’m very grateful for the both of them.

Ricky Easterling deserved the nickname Mr Regionalliga. Did you ever play against him in Germany? It would have been exciting to see 2 guys like you battling in the Regionalliga had you remained in Germany.

Huge shoutout to Ricky he deserves that crown. Haven’t got the chance to play against him unfortunately would’ve love that battle while in Germany he just so happenend to be in the south division while I was in the north.

You only played in 3 countries in your career with Germany, Luxemburg and Iceland. You played longest in Iceland and have their citzenship. Has that become your second home and will you end your career there?

I actually got to play in the Dominican Republic as well for two summers earlier in my career during my Germany years. Iceland has become my second home I have my wife and 2 daughters there so it will more likely be where I end my career

You have been a scorer your whole professional career. When you see an ex teammate from Coastal Carolina College that may have lost track of you and you explain you averaged 48,0ppg in Germany what kind of responses do you usually get?

Great question if I speak or tell an ex teammate about those video game numbers they are telling me I know you can score but 48 that’s insane who are you playing against.

How vital was getting the green light in your first 2 seasons as a scorer where you dominated in Germany? How did that help you continue to be a lethal scorer in first divisions in Luxemburg and Iceland?

I wouldn’t necessarily say vital but it was great for my confidence and exposure for myself, I always knew my capabilities of who I was as a player so it carries over wherever I play and still does to this day.

You came to Iceland in 2018 and led the league in scoring 3 years in a row including 38,0ppg in your first season. I believe that was a record in Iceland. When you score so much in your career, is it harder to keep track of real big games when you always have such big games?

No it doesn’t even though it may seem so those bigger games always seem to standout a bit more to me those ones are special.

You played the last 2 seasons with Breidablik Kopavogur (Iceland-Subway League) and led the league in scoring and was also second in scoring. How do you explain your secret to being consistent despite getting older? Are you a gym rat like Brandon Bowmann?

Just never taken my opportunity to still play for granted as long I can lace them up. I´m going to give it my all. I do like to stay in the gym just to keep myself always ready and prepared. I am a gym rat not really taking to much time off and staying in the gym helps with me playing this long.

Iceland has been a stepping stone for Americans getting to higher leagues. Who was the best player that you witnessed in Iceland over the years?

The league has been improving every year since I’ve been there and I have seen a lot of good players and had good battles. Tough to choose from but I would have to say Robert Turner he was solid.

You have lived in an incredibly beautiful country. You must know the island inside out. What has been your coolest experience off the court?

I would have to say having family members or good friends come out to visit and showing them how beautiful the country is

You played 3 seasons with Residence Walferdange (Luxembourg-Total League) winning the second division in 2015. What do you remember being so special about this winning season?

Luxembourg was great all my years playing there. But that first year was special because it was a whole new group of guys including coach and we all just fit perfectly with each other from day one!

You continued to put great stats in Luexmburg. How do you feel did your game grow in these 3 years?

I would say my game grew in Luxembourg because I had to match the level of competition especially import wise there was always really good imports on every team so every night was a battle from the top team to the bottom didn’t matter.

In Luxemburg you also saw many talented Americans come through and make the next step. Who do you remember being the best American you battled against there?

This one is a tough one to answer as I mentioned before the imports were always good I can choose so many but I’m going to have to say Brad Reese.

Times were different in 2008. You had a solid NCAA senior year, but didn´t play your rookie season until 2009 in the Landesliga (7th div) in Germany. How does that happen for a guy coming out of the NCAA? Was it failed representation?

I would have to say so yes I initially passed up on a few opportunities prior to taking that offer. Also not knowing to much at all about how things were there at the time there wasn´t really social media like there is now mainly just word of mouth. I was just very eager to get back to playing the situation was good at the time so I told myself whatever chance I get I will make the best of it.

You played 4 years with the Bodfeld Baskets helping them move up 3 times all the way to the Regionalliga. The lower leagues aren´t glamourous what did you learn about life and yourself in this time period in your life?

It gave me more gratitude towards life and appreciation. A humbling experience at the least coming from a mid major where things were more glamorous. I learned so much about myself in life during this time period it was like a blessing in disguise besides the basketball part I was able to focus on me more than ever.

You averaged 48,0ppg and 47,0ppg in your first 2 pro seasons in Germany. It is difficult finding game box scores. Talk about some of your best games and highest scoring games?

Those two years there were a lot of games that stick out averaging that much it happend often. One of my favorites were when we played Hannover not sure if they still have a team but it was a big game we needed to move up I hit like 11 3s had like 50 something that game it should be somewhere on YouTube clips from that game.

You moved up 3 times with the Bodfeld Baskets. Which title was the sweetest?

The sweetest one was the move up from 2nd regio to the 1st regio more because of the group of guys we had about 5 guys from different countries figuring it out bonding together probably one of my favorite teams playing on professionally.

You played a season with the SC Itzehoe Eagles (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 28.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 5.2apg, 3.0spg, FGP: 67.8%, 3Pts: 37.4%, FT: 65.9%. What memories do you have of that season? Do you ever wonder how your career may have gone had you remained there and played for Pat Elzie?

Itzehoe was great and also special and unique place to play because it was my first place playing outside of Bodfeld so it was a new challenge and experience from what I was used to. Alot of good memories there. It was a great organization and they welcomed me very well we just fell short of moving up to that season. Which was the main reason I left because I wanted to play at a higher level

You played at Sullivan County Community College. Every guy I have talked to has said that JUCO was tough but one of best experiences ever. How was it for you?

Juco is tough It’s not for everybody. I got be strong to survive but I would say it helped me so much because it built my drive and hunger for the game that much more its survival of the fittest in Juco. It was an amazing experience for me got me ready for the next level for sure. There’s a lot of good players in juco who don’t make it out and get that next opportunity.

You then played 2 seasons at Coastal Carolina College (NCAA). What memories do you have of this time. You picked up your game in your senior year. How did your game grow there?

Every opportunity I had I learned something from and made the best of. My time at Coastal Carolina helped me a lot. I had some great memories and came across some amazing people down there. It was a bit of an adjustment coming from Juco but once I got used to everything I didn’t look back. Coastal helped to build my work ethic and discipline to such a high level which carries on in me still on and off the court.

You had many memorable games in the NCAA, but was the 90-86 win over UNC Wilmington where you scored 27 points your most memorable?

My senior year I really got to flourish. That Wilmington game definitely sticks out but there were many that season that were memorable for me it was real fun.

How did coaches Buzz Peterson and Cliff Ellis groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

When I look back they both were good for me as far as preparing me for turning professional. It was two different styles of playing one more structure and the other a more uptempo style of play. I learned a lot from both of them going towards the professional side and I was ready for whatever

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jack Leasure?

Jack Leasure is my guy and one of the hardest working and best shooters I’ve ever seen. He never gets tired. It would be a great battle but I’m going with myself on this one.

Who was the best player you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

I’m going to have to go with Reggie Williams from VMI college. He played with several NBA teams and he was tough. There were many others but I played against him a lot being in the same conference so there were a lot of battles

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I’m going to have to answer this one based off of my teammates playing professionally. I had way too many amazing teammates to choose from. This is in no order Tim Dzelski Maddis Sumanov, Danero Thomas Jamael Lynch and Daniel Pierre

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Stephen Curry Michael Jordan Lebron James Tim Duncan Shaq

Who is your GOAT and why?

Michael Jordan, because he was just different from everyone.

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

Yes I did see it. That one they should have left along it was too long of a time gap between the first one.

Thanks Everage for the chat

The Fraport Skyliners and EPG Baskets Koblenz closed out 2023 with massive wins stopping their losing streaks of 1 game beating the favorite Kirchheim Knights and the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Koblenz did a superb job in their own living room getting back to stellar Koblenz defense while Frankfurt grinded out a tough win in OT in Bremerhaven with the help of crucial buckets by Canadian Aiden Warnholtz. Both wins were key as it gave both clubs must needed self confidence going into 2024. The EPG Baskets Koblenz met the Fraport Skyliners for the first time in their history and who would of thought that only 4 years ago the EPG Baskets Koblenz were competing in the Regionalliga and Frankfurt in the easyCredit BBL. Both teams came into the New Year pumped and the game turned out to be a defensive showcase and a tale of 2 halves. Koblenz controlled the first half while the Fraport Skyliners controlled the second half and increased their defense a few notches in the fourth quarter allowing only 5 points and winning another come from behind win on the road this time 69-54. “We played with a lot of grit in the second half. We matched their intensity and then increased it over theirs. We took over the game with our defense. We were very physical and rebounded the ball well”, stressed Fraport Skyliner guard Kevin McClain (190-G-1996, college: Belmont). The EPG Baskets played a great defensive first half, but offensively couldn´t find a rhythm in the second half and couldn´t buy a field goal in the last frame. “It was a very defensive game. Both teams defended well, but we switched better in the first half. They found better solutions in the second half and hit their shots better. We didn´t make good decisions and had too many turnovers that led to easy Frankfurt baskets”, stressed EPG Baskets Koblenz guard Marvin Heckel.

Maurice Pluskota at the FT line

The EPG Baskets Koblenz came out on fire taking the rapid 10-2 lead over the Fraport Skyliners. Koblenz came out aggressive on offense and displayed nice inside out play using the bigs and superb guard play of Heckel and Sloan who connected while top Pro A center Maurcie Pluskota scored twice. Each score made the CGM arena a bit louder as their defense was their staple totally stifling Frankfurt. Frankfurt´s drive was totally taken away and their contested three´s didn´t fall. Even if the Koblenz bigs controlled the paint area, Frankfurt did get an offense rebound and put back from 2018 NBBL champion Lorenz Brenneke. Koblenz could of led by 10 points, but they also had difficulty against the Frankfurt switch defense and let them back in as German Jacob Knauf hit a trey to trail only 14-9. Little used German Leo Saffer brought energy from the bench hitting 2 free throws, but ex Indiana State (NCAA) guard Cameron Henry was also aggressive nailing a left handed lay in at the buzzer as the Fraport Skyliners trailed only 16-11. “We had 10 points too little and Frankfurt 4 points too much. We defended great against the drive, but lost rhythm when Heckel was out”, stated EPG Baskets Koblenz CEO Thomas Klein. “We had problems figuring out their defensive schemes. We were thinking too much instead of just playing”, stressed Kevin McClain.

Cameron Henry turn around shot

The second quarter remained a defensive battle, but the EPG Baskets Koblenz kept the edge going into the break with a slim 5 point lead. Leon Friederici and Aidon Warnholtz traded three pointers to begin the second quarter. Then the game became wild in the next few minutes as no team could buy a bucket. Frankfurt did a good job securing offensive rebounds as Knauf made a put back as Koblenz led only 19-17. “The offensive rebounds kept Frankfurt in the game at that point”, stressed Thomas Klein. But sometimes things go so fast as the EPG Baskets Koblenz exploded on a 9-0 run as 2 crazy deep three´s by Friederici and Sloan blew open the game as Koblenz led 28-17. The up and down phases of Koblenz appeared again something that has accompanied them all season long. As quickly as they could celebrate their little run, Frankfurt punched back with a swift 7-1 run to trail only 29-24 at half-time. In the run the guests got vital support from ex Alba Berlin guard Nolan Adekunle with a runner off the glass and a clutch three pointer from Minnesota native Booker Coplin. “We lost our rhythm. We played great defense, but 29 points was too little for us. If the three´s of Frankfurt began to fall, then the score would have looked different”, added Thomas Klein. “We played good defense. Eventually the offense will come. Our aggressive defense led to good offense”, commented Kevin McClain.

Marvin Heckel from outside

The third quarter showed the best combined offense of both teams as 43 points were scored, but at the end of 30 minutes, the Fraport Skyliners still couldn´t get over the hump as Koblenz led 49-47. The Fraport Skyliners were better prepared at the start cruising out on a 12-4 run to get the lead at 36-34. It was probably the best 3 minutes of offense by Frankfurt as there was a real flow and better decisions made and guys picking their spots better. Frankfurt got key three´s by Warnholtz and Henry and also mixed it up inside getting a lay in and thunderous dunk by Brenneke. Frankfurt got the needed run to turn the game around as their aggressive defense finally paid dividends as their offense execution finally clicked. Both teams then traded leads with Sloan and Henry baskets, but basketball wouldn´t be basketball without another run as Koblenz was prepared and served up the counter punch with a 10-2 run to grab the more comfortable 47-40 advantage. In the run the EPG Baskets Koblenz got lay in´s by American Robert Hall and Moses Poelking while Rytis Pipiras hit a trey. Koblenz increased their physicality and their guard play led the charge while good defense led to transition play. But Koblenz couldn´t hold the momentum as Frankfurt closed out the third quarter with a swift 6-2 run with baskets from David Muenkat, Warnholtz free throws and a buzzer beating lay in by McClain. “We did a good job not thinking so much anymore. We made the right passes and shots”, stated Kevin McClain. “We didn´t play our game. We got away from our principles. Frankfurt pressured us better and we couldn´t find to our game”, expressed Marvin Heckel.

David Muenkat at the FT line
It was a 2 point game going into the fourth quarter and the game was up for grabs. But instead of the contest being a back and forth tug of war, the EPG Baskets Surprisingly totally fell apart in their own living room amassing only 5 points and no field goal. The Fraport Skyliners began with a lethal 7-3 run to lead 54-52 and would never look back. Kevin McClain took matters into his own hands scoring 7 unanswered points showing his brutal 1-1 qualities. “I´m still finding my rhythm. If I don´t think too much eventually all will click. I was able to get to my spots and not think too much”, added Kevin McClain. “McClain did a good job using his 1-1 qualities against the switch. He was tough to control. He is a good player”, stated Marvin Heckel. Everything clicked for Frankfurt as their aggressive defense continued to wreck havoc and on offense Frankfurt executed the way they know how. A Knauf three, Cooplin fade away jumper and Muenkat basket gave Frankfurt the 61-52 lead. Frankfurt did a great job reading the Koblenz offense and got steal after steal. Koblenz got over their 5th team foul which led to Muenkat, Henry and Coplin free throws and the undisputable 66-52 lead. McClain added a trey for good measure and Poelking free throws to end the game. “We took our defense more personal and played even more aggressive”, added Kevin McClain. “We fell apart. It was tough moving the ball inside on the switch defense. When you can´t do that then it´s tough to get into a flow”, stressed Marvin Heckel. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Kevin McClain and Jacob Knauf with 13 points a piece while the EPG Baskets Koblenz were led by David Sloan with 14 points and 12 points from Leon Friederici. The Fraport Skyliners shot 39% from the field and 30% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 15 turnovers while the EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 31% from the field and 21% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 27 turnovers.

pic credit: San Diego State University

The First Sign of a player that has the potential to go his route overseas is knowing that he isn´t satisfied. That will to keep grinding and to reach the highest level is something that easyCredit BBL rookie Matt Bradley (193-G-1999, college: SDSU) is striving for. He has already competed against very many talented and high profile players in his young career before coming to Rostock, but now is undergoing a reality check there and paying his dues as he isn´t the number one scoring option and is playing a lot less minutes compared to what he saw in the NCAA. But that’s ok for him. What this guy has experienced in the last years has been incredible. It started in high school where he had a 72 point game to reaching the NCAA final last season with San Diego State University and also hitting a game winner a few years back with California against one of the best defenders in the NBA. Matt Bradley has unending talent and has proven in the last years that this guy could go places overseas with his game. “I grew up near where the Ball brothers are from. LaMello scored 92 points in a game and LiAngelo had scored 72 points once. I remember texting a friend a week before the game where I scored 72 points that I would break the record. I didn´t break the record, but scored as many as he did. I remember being taken out 3 minutes before the end with us up 20 points. I remember with my game winner against Washington that they had some future NBA guys on the team with Isaiah Stewart and Jaden McDaniels. I didn´t have a high scoring game, but hit many clutch shots. I will never forget making the winner over Jaden McDaniels. That will always give me bragging rights. It was a fun night”, remembered Matt Bradley. As a rookie he is averaging only 8,1ppg and is playing 10 minutes less than in the NCAA. Despite having this adversary, the experience will only fuel him for the rest of the season and beyond. “It has been humbling in Rostock. In college I scored a lot and now I´m not. But coach Held has been great. He continues to push me to keep working and tells me I´m doing great. We have many great players and I just try to do my best and help my team win in any way I can. I´m not looking at now, but at the big picture down the road. I´m not worried about my numbers now. I feel like I´m starting to find my groove”, warned Matt Bradley. Matt Bradley has competed and been successful against the Ball´s and McDaniel´s but isn´t satisfied and is looking at the big picture overseas.

Matt Bradley who names current Boston Celtic Payton Prichard as his toughest opponent in the NCAA was born on August 19th, 1999 in San Bernardino, California. He started his high school career at Rancho Cucamonga High School in Rancho Cucamonga, California, but left after his freshman season where he broke his foot. He then attended San Bernardino high school. His career there really began to take off as he posted 3 straight 40 point games in his junior season and soon after that 72 point masterpiece against Rubidoux. He averaged 31/11/5/4 stats. He then played his senior year in Utah at Wasatch academy and helped his team achieve a 24-2 record and the team was ranked nationally at 13. He finished his high school career being ranked 53rd by Rivals, the 78th overall player nationally and 8th in California by 247Sports. He then decided to play at the University of California from 2018-2021 where he was able to improve his scoring average each season. He averaged 10.9ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 37.3%, 3PT: 47.2%, FT: 79.3% as a freshman and his game really took off in his last 2 seasons as he averaged 17.3ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 85.7% and 18.0ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 81.2%. “Those last 2 years were key. I was the Derrick Alston of the team. The offense went through me. My team relied on me to score. My second season I lost most of my teammates and a new coach came. I became the leader of the team. I had to step up. I had put in a lot of work the previous summer and my results showed that hard work could pan out”, warned Matt Bradley. In his 3 years there he scored in double figures in 70 games and some memorable scoring games were 28 points and 26 points in wins over Colorado, 27 points against Pepperdine, and 26 points against WSU. He twice was named to the All-Pac-12 Second Team.

The flashy guard who lists Nathan Mensah, Melvin Walker, Jaeden Leede, Paris Austin and current teammate Chris Carter as his 5 best teammates of all-time then finished at San Diego State University where he added on 2 more years averaging 17.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 79.3% and 12.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 81.1%. In his first season he had Nevada´s number being instrumental in 2 nail bitter wins combined by only 3 points and he led his team with 26 and 24 points. “My favorite win was when we won at their place. It is always hard to win on the road. It was a very hostile environment and the whole crowd was booing. We were a really good defensive team that season and really stepped up”, remembered Matt Bradley. His first season he scored in double figures in 25 of 31 games and had memorable scoring games in wins with 30 points against Wyoming and 28 points against SJSU. His team saved their best for last reaching the NCAA final in 2023 losing to UConn. It was a real magical season and going into March Madness he wouldn´t have thought they would go so far. “We were struggling with being consistent. We had good depth and any one could be top scorer on any given night. You never knew what you would get from us. After we beat Charleston we came together and said we would give all we had and not worry about personal stats. We just outhustled teams and bullied them. After the first win we just rolled. We just couldn´t get job done against UConn. They were a good team, but I felt that we could of won if we had done what we could do, but we made history reaching final”, remembered Matt Bradley. SDSU would go on to defeat Furman, Alabama, and Creighton to reach the Final 4. Winning 2 more games was simply too much. The FAU buzzer beater in the semi-final seemed like their final. “Butler is clutch. He had hit a tough game winner earlier in year. I knew on that last shot it was win or go home. That last shot felt like everything was in slow motion. I had so many emotions inside me as he let it go. I was just happy it went it. It was hard to process everything after that win. We were drained and in between shell shocked. We just couldn´t clear our minds for the final. I wish we could of locked in in the final, but I was so proud of our run”, stressed Matt Bradley. In his last season he scored in double figures in 25 of 38 games including 27 points in a win against Air Force and 21 points against FAU at March Madness. He understands that his success was guided perfectly by head coach Brian Dutcher. “He is a player´s coach that doesn´t cater to what you need but works with you and cares for you. He is genuine and the most important thing that I learned form him was how to build relationships with teammates and coaches. When the relationship works, then everything looks like fake work, but all is fun. Now as a pro, I see that it´s not just about getting paid, but about relationships”, warned Matt Bradley who remembers beating Lamont Butler in 1-1 games in practice. In his 2 years at SDSU he picked up All-MWC First Team 2022, 23, MWC All-Tournament Team -2022, 23
MWC Regular Season Champion -2023, MWC Tournament Winner -2023, All-MWC All-Tournament MVP -2023 and NABC Division I All-District 17 First Team -2023.

The California native who lists Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Kareem Abdul Jabbar on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is playing his rookie season in Germany with easyCredit BBL team Rostock Seawolves. But his way to Europe wasn´t a cake walk. Sometimes things happen so quickly and you have to react at a wink and just jump for the opportunity. “After reaching the NCAA final, the world was big for me. I didn´t really know what I would do on or off the court. Then came the offer from Rostock to come in for the injured Jordan Roland. At the time, that is what was best for me. I came in on the fly. I came to Rostock and was ready to work”, said Matt Bradley. The Rostock Seawolves is one of those teams that came up from the fourth division to the top in less than 10 years and continue to annoy teams in the BBL. They are a feisty team that have aspirations to reach the playoffs and are fueled by their energetic great fans. “Our fans are amazing. I feel like we have had the edge in close games because of them. When they slap the paper, it feels like a drum. They are always nice where ever you see them. We have a lot of potential. Despite getting a tough loss in Vechta, I feel like we are starting to hit our stride now. I feel like we have gotten a lot better since the cup loss to Vechta and the last loss there. We have shown growth and are coming together now. In the BBL, I feel like every team is beatable. We are really focusing on winning now”, warned Matt Bradley. He has so many talented teammates especially with captain Chris Carter and Wes Clark who have been very instrumental in his growth in his first months overseas. “I arrived here on my birthday and Chris took me under his wing right away. He told me what to expect and also helped me on a personal level and has shown me what it means to be a professional. He has helped me to make plays and not just run up and down the court. He is a good leader and friend. Wes is really experienced and has helped me to force things less and has helped me break down the game when things are going a bit too fast”, added Matt Bradley. The American is also playing for the first time for a European coach with Christian Held and has appreciated the working relationship. “Coach is younger than my coaches in college. He is knowledgeable and very competitive. He is different than others coaches in that he wants all to come together. He wants everything to be done so you can win”, warned Matt Bradley.

The American who has a rather unexpecting GOAT with Demarcus Cousins compares his game as a mix between Desmond Bane and Marcus Smart and is a player that has proven that he can score and shoot the ball at a high clip, but his game offers so much more. “I feel like I´m an underrated passer. I feel like I can make the right reads and make the type of passes that people won´t expect. But my biggest strength is my attribute to winning”, expressed Matt Bradley. He is also on his way to becoming a 2 way player as he is a very ambitious defender. “I´m a pretty hard nosed defender. SDSU was a program that really stressed defense. My time there helped me with physicality, rotations and 1-1 defense. At the moment I´m the type of defender that is there to disrupt the ball handler. I want to become a more versatile defender and be able to defend 1-4”, commented Matt Bradley. Currently this season in the BBL he is averaging 8,1ppg, 2,5rpg and 1,3apg while shooting 36% from outside in 16 minutes. He really found his groove in the Fiba Europe Cup action averaging 10,5ppg, 3,2rpg and 1,3spg while shooting a hot 50% from the parking lot. He scored in double figures in 5 of 6 games. Being able to play this competition was instrumental in his early development as a player overseas. “I liked playing Fiba Europe Cup. I was able to play against different styles. Since we played twice a week, guys were tired and it was my time to step up and take my game to a new level. I showed I was more of a threat at both ends. Now my role is still the same in the BBL, but I feel like it is getting bigger”, stated Matt Bradley. It is still a long season ahead and career and he has very clear goals how he will get to the highest level. “Number 1 on my list is getting my stamina to be better. I have to eat healthy and do extra cardio work. Second is I want to keep working on my playmaking on the pick and roll and being able to make plays for all. And three working on becoming a better scorer. I want to be a 3 level scorer”, warned Matt Bradley. It will be interesting to see how the Rostock Seawolves fare in the second half of the season and if Matt Bradley can continue to elevate his game. He made history in the NCAA and who knows may add some new history this season when he helps the Seawolves reach their first playoffs in the easyCredit BBL. He can also begin making history next weekend with a win against FC Bayern Munich. He definitely has proven in the NCAA that he has that special winning touch.

Ok so the Miracle In Miami was the day after Thanksgiving in 1984 where the world saw the hail mary bomb by Doug Flutie to defeat the Miami Hurricans in their living room obviously wasn´t a Rose Bowl game, but since my memories of great Rose Bowl games have slipped my mind, I will always have this play as one of the greatest in college football in my life time. The Rose Bowl is traditionally played on New Years eve in Los Angeles and after proper research, there have been some amazing games in the last decades that have left a mark on college football. For instance the game in 2006 is for many the greatest game in college football history as Texas beat USC on a game winning touch down run by quarterback Vince Young or back in 1997 as Ohio State was back in the Rose Bowl for the first time in 12 years and upset Arizona State of a likely national championship with a late drive as Joe Germaine connected with David Boston for the winning touchdown. The Rose Bowl is traditionally a game that is watched by many world wide and for BG Hagen guard Shawn Scott (185-G-1996, college: SW Christian) it wasn´t any different in his household as a kid. “This for sure I watched every year. I was more invested in the past than now. But this year might be difficult to watch but I’ll find a way”, warned Shawn Scott.

One of the great things for Americans when playing overseas isn´t only learning about different cultures, but also being able to take part in different holiday traditions. There are many guys overseas especially Americans who will oft for the globetrotter life and bounce from team to team every season to get some culture for their money. One guy that stands out to having had a passport full of international stamps like ex Maryland (NCAA) great Ekene Ibekwe who played for more than 25 organizations and in 12 countries and is still playing at age 38 in his 15th season. For Shawn Scott, he is still at the beginning of his pro career overseas as he is playing for his third professional team with BG Hagen after starting with TVO Biggesee / TV Jahn Lindhorst and last season played with BG 2000 Berlin. The explosive scorer who also can whip up the triple double if needed as he has already served up 4 in Germany recently spent his first Christmas in Germany. “Christmas was great I got to eat a lot of traditional German Christmas meals and it was nice to be around people here that I consider to be family. I spent most of the time with my girlfriend and her family but also got to spend a day with my old coach from Biggesee”, said Shawn Scott. Americans traditionally open presents in the morning while in Germany on Christmas eve. Did he have to choose in Germany? “Christmas Eve was the day I spent with my old coach and there I had my first traditional meal. We actually opened presents in the afternoon so I’m not sure what that counts as”, smiled Shawn Scott.

After recovering from the X-mas holiday days, Shawn Scott then was ready to celebrate his first new years in Germany. For him New Years Eve was always an important American tradition that he celebrated at home in the states. “To me it means celebrating the days before we go into the “New Year” and hopefully getting closer to reach our goals and resolutions”, stressed Shawn Scott. His New Years memories are sparse, but he does remember playing games and remembers what was served to drink. “I think most were just spent at home with my family and possibly my parents having a party. And being able to drink champagne with no alcohol feeling like an adult”, smiled Shawn Scott. New Years Eve in Germany is usually spent with family at home playing games like Uno, or watching movies like Dinner For one or even having a wellness night and not to forget having great food. In Germany people like to go into the new year with a sweet punch called Feuerzangenbowle or Meat Fondue. At midnight the poor pets run for cover as it gets loud with all the fireworks. A few days before New Years eve in Germany, he was still a bit in the dark with what he would do, but one thing was for sure, he wouldn´t be without at least one loved one. “With just days left until new years I still have no for sure plan. 100% I will be with my girlfriend because this will be our first new years spent together. That’s enough for me”, added Shawn Scott. The weekend after New Years, his season will resume as he will go into the second half with German Regionalliga team BG Hagen. Currently his team is in second place at 11-4 chasing the ETB Essen Miners who are at 13-2. He currently is second in scoring at 29,8, second in assists at 6,4 and fourth in steals with 2,8. Did he stay in shape during the holiday season or will he have to carve off some pounds in the next days? “If I said I stayed fit then I’d be lying. For the whole week I did nothing but eat and was not able to get shots up. But believe it or not it was needed and since then we’ve already begun practice again and I’m back to my normal routine”, warned Shawn Scott. A flaw that I have is that I love to repeat myself, but since this is for the good of very talented American ballers who are off the radar of higher league teams and should be balling there, I will. Guys like Jeremy Ingram, Ricardo Artis and Shawn Scott who all incredible players that have huge chips on their shoulders and will never stop grinding to reach their goals. It isn´t any different with Shawn Scott. He has a powerful New Years resolution. “I want to reach a new height in my basketball career this year”, warned Shawn Scott. I´m all for it. I will continue to support him the best way I can! Let´s do it Shawn.

Quran Dublin (185-G, college: York, NY) is a 185cm guard from New York playing his rookie season overseas with TSV Bargteheide (Germany-Regionalliga). He began his basketball career with Mott Hall High Schooland then played 2 seasons with Borough of Manhattan Community College (JUCO) averaging 23.9ppg, 5.4rpg, 3.3apg, 1.3spg FGP: 55.5%, 3PT: 50.3%, FT: 87.5%. in his final season there, He then moved to the University of District of Columbia (NCAA2) averaging 4.8ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 32.6%, 3PT: 27.4%, FT: 81.3% and then moved again this time to York College, CUNY (NCAA3) averaging 21.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 4.6apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 89.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?

Right now I’m currently in Bargteheide, Germany & basketball has always treated me great in any moment.

Congrats on your 53 point game last weekend. But I don´t know what is more crazy the 53 points or the fact that your 71/72 from the free throw line. I just noticed that stat. You have always been a good free throw shooter over 80% but this season your 98%. Have you used all your free time in Bargteheide to shoot free throws?

Haha, I don’t spend my free time necessarily shooting free throws, but I put in the work to stay as consistent as possible. Throughout my basketball career I’ve always flirted with that 90% number from the free throw line, so it was only a matter of time.

This season you hit for an incredible 53 points in the 124-111 win over Neustadt. Was that the most points you ever scored in a game in your life?

No it wasn’t the most I’ve ever scored.

What does it mean to score 53 points. Not many make 40 points, but 53 points is a totally new level. –

Just another day in the office. Only thing that mattered was securing a victory by any means. I know what I’m capable of, I know what our team is capable of & that game my teammates did a great job of finding me when I was opening. It was then up to me to take those shots & make them afterwards.

Let´s talk about the game. How quickly did you notice in the game that you were feeling it and could have a great game?

I just went out & played. My mind is blank when I’m on the court, I don’t think too much, I just read & react.

The crazy thing is you only scored 11 baskets, but went 23/23 from the free throw line. Why do you suppose were you more aggressive that game then others?

Haha, I just played my cards right, & I knew this was an important game for us as a team, for our home crowd & for our club. Respect to Neustadt as well, but for us as a whole we knew our job. And that’s to protect home court.

Your self-confidence must be very high. Now that you passed 50 points do you aim higher and go for 60 next game?

I only aim to win games. The scoring will come within the flow of the game & whatever the result is, so be it. As long as we win the game.

#Your having a great rookie season averaging 28/6/4/2 stats. Does it sometimes feel like you’re a man among boys?

No, I’m still learning, adapting & growing as a player in the league.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 185cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

Since college I’ve got the comparison to Damian Lillard. A lot of my coaches & peers have mentioned it to me. I didn’t want to believe it but the more I watched his game the more I understood my coaches view point on how we move the same, how we look to attack certain areas on the court & also shooting the 3 ball. You can even see in comments on my IG videos people saying it as well.

You fill the stat sheet like no other. How big is versatility in your game?

Veryyyy important. I don’t want to just affect the game by just scoring. Some nights I may not score big or I might be off. I’m human. But I know I can contribute by getting rebounds, assists, steals etc to help our team secure a victory.

You have always been a solid three point shooter. Do you feel like you can be a 40% shooter overseas?

Of course. That’s what I do. I shoot. I work on my shots everyday

What type of defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I’m definitely much better than in college haha.. but I’ve grown in that aspect as far as being a smarter defender & keeping my man in front. I still want to strive to become better of course.

On what area´s of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player?

Everything. I work on all aspects/areas of my game because it is always room for improvement.

You played at 3 schools at Borough of Manhattan Community College (JUCO), University of District of Columbia (NCAA2) and York College, CUNY. How vital was it for your basketball development playing at 3 schools? What did your game pick up at each school?

Confidence. My confidence was already high. My coaches & my teammates especially my teammates kept pushing me further. Once I understood that they had my back, then the floodgates opened.

You played 2 seasons at Borough of Manhattan Community College (JUCO) and in your last season averaged 23.9ppg, 5.4rpg, 3.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.5%, 3PT: 50.3%, FT: 87.5%. Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO have stated that it was tough but an experience they wouldn´t have passed up the world for. How was JUCO for you?

JUCO was fun. It was definitely a starting point of course, but overall it was fun. I learned a lot, gained brothers in the process & we made history at the school as a whole. So it was definitely a fun experience.

You won the Cunyac title in 2018. What was the toughest challenge in winning that chip?

Nothing. Our team been there before the previous year & won, so during that game. We were focused & ready on our home court & our biggest thing is to protect home court. So despite being down 5 at the half, we locked in & got the job done as a team & resulted in 2x Cunyac Championships

You then played a season at the University of District of Columbia (NCAA2) averaging 4.8ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 32.6%, 3PT: 27.4%, FT: 81.3%. How tough was that season and what positives could you gain from it?

I don’t take think coach knew what to do with me and how to coach me. I don’t think he understood I was a player with a high basketball IQ. I feel as though they recruited me as a package deal with my brother & teammate Terrell Fullton who is an unbelievable player. But overall it was a learning experience that I keep with me to this day that fuels me.

You then finished at York College, CUNY (NCAA3) averaging 21.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 4.6apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 89.3%. How did your game grow that season?

# I had a coach that believed & trusted me. Players don’t understand how important it is to have that at any level. So once I knew that, I just picked up right where I left off at BMCC & in my eyes UDC never happened.

How did head coach Nolan Adams groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I’ve had MANY coaches throughout my entire life & career that have helped me get to where I am today. Not only as a player but also as a person. The one thing that not only coach Adams but many others coaches have told me, was to continue to be me & keep pushing myself. The hardwork will come to the light.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Donald Hartley?

Me.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced that reached the NBA?

Mo Bamba.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

5 best teammates no order..

Terrell Fullerton

Lawrence Todman

Mambe Korisesi

Victor Kovicsich

Then I’m torn between Anthony Mcclean & Alex Humphreys.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kyrie Irving, Kobe Bryant, MJ & Lebron James

Who is your GOAT and why?

Kobe. His work ethic. Not going to sit and say I have the same work ethic as Kobe, but I push myself past my limits. I have high expectations for myself every time I step on the court or whenever I’m presented a challenge. I’ve always strived to be perfect & I’ve kept the same mindset my entire life. Which is to win by any means. I prepare myself & put in the extra work so when it’s moments my teammates need me, I’m ready. That’s why Kobe is my goat, because I feel he thought the same way.

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

The movie industry wanted to make a sequel, so what I think or what anyone thinks wouldn’t have stopped them.

Thanks Quran for the chat.