Pic credit: Dennis-Greeen-Bremen

Carlos Carter (197-G/F-1999, college: Shippensburg) is a 25 year old 197cm forward playing second season overseas and second in Germany and first with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Last season he played his rookie season with Munster playing 21 games averaging 6.7ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 70.4%He got his first pro experience with the Hub City Hogs (ECBL). He began his basketball career at Indiana high school and then played 4 years and 120 NCAA 2 games for Shippensburg University. He was able to improve his scoring and rebounding average each season and as a senior averaged 18.4ppg, 6.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 81.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 98-72 win over Dresden.

Thanks Carlos for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the big 98-72 win over Dresden. How vital was getting back on the winning track after losing to Crailsheim?

That win was very important. We know what potential we have as a team and where we want to be later in the season. The first half of the season is always important. At the moment we are taking it game by game. We definitely want to play our best basketball at the end of the season. Seeing the ball go in against Dresden was nice.

After winning the first quarter 20-19 Bremerhaven exploded for 34 points in the second quarter and took over the game. What did head coach Steve Esterkamp give for instructions going into the second quarter?

Coach told us to stick to our principles and what we preach every day. We had some games where we had too many turnovers. A big focus is limiting our turnovers. We know that we can play good team basketball.

Bremerhaven made 8 three´s in the second quarter. How big of a weapon is the team´s three point shooting? Many guys stepped up?

Yes three point shooting is a weapon of ours. We may not have the biggest or strongest players, but we have great shooters. We have many guys that can shoot at a high percentage. We have 4 guys that can stretch the floor at all times. Three´s will be dropping this season.

Bremerhaven did a super job managing the lead in the third quarter and was up 72-52. How proud were of the team´s defensive effort. What is the team´s biggest defensive strength and how much potential does it have?

Coach stressed going into the third quarter to have constant on ball pressure and be in the gaps. We play that style of defensive ball. We got some steals that led to easy transition baskets and three pointers.

Bremerhaven closed out the game well scoring 26 points. The offense seems to be gelling better and better from game to game. Are you pleased with how the inside out game is developing?

We play good team basketball. Everyone gets touches. The team is gelling better and better. All that matters is that the ball goes in and we win.

Have you been surprised how Dresden has started this season? They are known for discipline and good team play. Are they still finding themselves?

They have a really interesting unit. I think the difference in the game was that our matchups were superior and it just didn´t work in their favor. We had better athleticism and shooters. I´m sure that they will figure it out. They are a solid fundamental team.

The team is now 2-2. On what areas do you have to tweak most on to get over 500?

I think in games this season, bad decisions and shot selection cost us in crunch-time. But these are things we can fine tune.

How much fun has it been playing with the potent point guard duo of Elijah Miller and Peter Hemschemeier. What have you learned to appreciate most about their games?

They are both very intelligent on the court. They always know where everyone is supposed to be and make good reads. They also always know what the defense is doing. We try to follow in their foot steps with our games.

What kind of a special and added dimension does Marquis Collins give the team at both ends of the court?

He is a shooter for us. He is still new to the game overseas and came late to the team. He is a great player that brings energy. I really like to play with us. We relate well to each other on and off the court. He is only a few hours away from where I come from.

Your playing your second season in Germany. What has it been like coming from Munster the city of the bikes to the pretty sea coast of Bremerhaven?

It is more relaxed in Bremerhaven. In Munster there was a different crowd. There were a lot of younger people, college age and parties going on. There were too many off court distractions. In Bremerhaven there are no distractions. I have more time to focus on my game and it´s more professional here.

What have you enjoyed most about the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven organization? Does it have that family atmosphere?

Both programs were very welcoming. I still have a lot of love for Munster for taking a shot on me. I love the energy in Bremerhaven. It makes it so much better when you see so many people smiling each day.

What have been the main differences in the coaching styles between Gotz Rohdewald and Steve Esterkamp?

Esterkamp has his own style. He is the definition of a player´s coach. He is very understanding and has his own enthusiasm. He strives everyone to be 1% better each day. I like that. He may yell at you, but if there is no yelling then it seems like you don´t care. He wants to see you be great. Rohdewald was also a great coach, but his style doesn´t fit everyone. I prefer Esterkamp´s style.

You were injured for months last season in Munster. How are you feel now?

I am 100%. I had an interesting injury. So far all is good. I´m taking it day by day and hope to play a full season injury free.

After getting major minutes at Shippensburg (NCAA2), you are now getting less minutes again? Are you getting to having that different kind of role as a pro in comparison to when you were in school?

It has been a major adjustment. You have to understand that one has to play a role at the pro level. It is what you make of it. You have to do your job and be efficient as best as you can. If you do that then you will get minutes. I take advantage of every second on the court. It´s not about me, but all about the team.

What is your role this season with the Eisbaeren? Is it different than in Munster? Your averaging 3 minutes more than last season?

I´m the glue and flow guy- We have enough scorers coming off screens. I´m a silent assassin. I take pride in what I bring to the table.

What is your main goal this season as a player? What kind of a player do you want to develop into this season?

I´m working on becoming a good decision maker. I also want to shoot at a higher percentage from outside. I also want to keep getting better as a defender and take advantage of my size and athleticism. I would like to average 1-2 steals per game this season.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Marquis Collins?

We have never played. But I would take it.

Thanks Carlos for the chat.