Tyreese Blunt (191-PG-2002) is a 22 year old 192cm guard playing his first season with the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. Last season he played mainly for the Dragons Rhondorf averaging 15.9ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 63.9%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 70.1% and also played 8 easyCredit BBL games for the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He played 2 seasons in the Bamberg organization and also played 44 games for farm team BBC Coburg. He began his career with the MHP Risen Ludwigsburg and played 1 BBL game there. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball and his ex teammate Ariel Hukporti who was drafted by the New York Knicks.

Thanks Tyreese for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with the Hakro Merlins. If the Dragons Rhondorf would have played Pro A do you feel like you may have remained?

It could have been possible, but you never know, I may have gotten other job opportunities as well.

Moving from the pro B to the Pro A was a logical choice. Was working with David Mccray a big reason why you signed there?

I think that my path would have brought me to the pro A sooner or later after 2 strong Pro B seasons. Being able to play for my ex coach David Mccray made my decision a lot easier. He is a super guy.

You already played for David Mccray in Ludwigsburg. What do you appreciate most about his coaching style?

I appreciate his work ethic most. He is always working and we train together every night. His work ethic gives me a reason to always give my best in practice or games. His work ethic boosts me to give my all.

You played the last 3 years in Bamberg and Rhondorf. How did you observe his coaching from afar? What are you expecting from him as a coach now 3 years later?

I will expect the same as before. I am expecting that he helps me become better and help me make the next steps. I also want to have a successful season with him on the court with the team.

How excited are you to play Pro A. How confident are you that you can become an impact player at that level?

I´m not that excited. Those days are over. I´m really looking forward to this season and believe that I can play a big role if I find my way quickly.

You were teammates with Ariel Hukporti in Ludwigsburg. If you could say one word describing him what would it be?

One word is easy. Hustler.

How proud were you that he was the last player picked in the 2024 draft by the Dallas Mavericks? It wasn´t self-evident that he would get picked as he was seen as a possible late second round pick.

I´m so proud of him. He went through so much already at a young age. Moving away from his mother wasn´t easy, but he fought through all adversary. He went through injuries, but always worked hard to achieve his goals

Describe the feeling when you heard his name?

I was so happy. At first I was speechless. I couldn´t realize it at first. I remember him calling me after he got picked and he couldn´t tell me that he was getting traded to New York.

Do you feel like he can crack the NBA rotation in 24-25?

Yes I think he can. It will be tough, but if he gets an opportunity, he will make it.

Everyone talks about his incredible defense and rebounding. What is off the radar with his game?

His athleticism is still a bit off the radar. Usually bigs aren´t so athletic, but he can really jump and is quick.

What is your fondest moment with him on the court?

It was always fun to play with him in every game. I can´t pick one thing.

He seems to have a massive heart for the people in his inner circle. What is your fondest moment with him?

We have gone through so much and are best friends. It is always a blessing to come together each summer and see each other again. I enjoy my time with him to the fullest. Every time we see each other, it is like we saw each other yesterday.

You big is still that bond from the Ludwigsburg days? Hukporti and Dejan Bruce are like brothers to you. How strong is this bond today?

It is big. Now in the summer we see each other a lot. During the summer we try to talk to each other every day. We always have a great time together. I value our time together highly.

What would you like to see Ariel Hukporti achieve in his first season in the NBA?

I honestly believe if he gets a chance, then he could get a big role. He wouldn´t be a main guy like Jalen Brunson, but have a good role.

Thanks Tyreese for the chat.