Chrysostom Chukwuma (190-G-1996, agency: Bell Basketball) is a 28 year old 190cm guard playing his first season in Germany with the Skyliners Juniors (Pro B) after starting the season with the Helsinki Seagulls. He began his basketball career with Vantaan Pussihukat. He then played 5 seasons with Jyvaskyla Basketball Academy. He then played 2 seasons with Lapuan Kobrat (Korisliiga) and a season with Pyrinto Tampere (Korisliiga).He spoke to germanhoops about basketball.

Chuku for talking to germanhoops. Before we talk basketball, I have to ask you about your name Chrysostom. That doesn´t seem like a common Finish name. How did you get that name?

It is a Greek name that my dad gave me.

Most people call you Chuko, but does anyone call you by your name Chrysostom?

A couple of people with my mom and dad.

You came in mid season from the Helsinki Seagulls to Frankfurt. Why did you make that move?

I already wanted to go out of Finland last summer, but had no offers. I didn´t want to go to the fourth divisions in Italy or Spain. Helsinki gave me an option during the season to go any time which I really appreciate. I´m so happy to be with the Skyliners. This is a great place to get better.

The Skyliners are a very young team. What is your role besides being a leader and mentor?

Being the guy that handles the offense and makes sure the plays are run right.

Is it fair to say that you’re a scoring point guard even though you can pass the ball very well?

Yes it is.

You are also an allrounder. How big is versatility in your game?

I think that my versatility is really big in my game. I can be a 3 and D player, guard the other teams best player, rebound, drive and shoot. The next part of my game that I´m working on is being able to bring the ball. I can do everything, but my role now is as point guard.

With Bruno Albrecht and Felix Hecker are 2 lethal scoring guards. Does that give you more of a chance to be a playmaker?

Yes of course. I love those guys. They have so much confidence shooting the ball. Especially Bruno Albrecht is always trigger happy.

How is your relationship with Jamie Edoka? How talented is he? Is he taking on tips from you?

It hasn´t been so much so far, but we have one connection in that we are both half Nigerian. He is a good guy. He is so talented. If he needs advice from me, I will always give it to him. He made some tough three´s against the Tropics. If he can get his jump shot right, then he can be a great player.

Are you able to practice with the easyCredit BBL team? When you see young guys like Trey Calvin and Malik Parsons, do you feel like you can stand your ground against them?

I do practice with the BBL team. It isn´t like I get run over by them. I can compete with them.

You were teammates with Curtis Hollis. He played in Germany in 2019-2020 and then 4 years away from Europe. Shouldn´t a guy like him be playing at even higher levels?

Curtis is super talented. I knew that he had played in Canada. I have no idea why he wasn´t overseas longer. He gives good energy and is a locker room guy. He still keeps in touch with me.

You played 4 seasons in the Korisliiga, the highest league in Finland. Is that league your goal in the future or would you like to explore higher leagues in Europe?

I want to go to higher leagues in Europe. I got a little bored in Finland. I want to spread my wings and see the world.

When you played at Lapuan Kobrat (Finland-Korisliiga) you were teammates with Denzel Livingston who was with the Houston Rockets. What memories do you have of him?

Denzel was our veteran. He always made sure I got my extra work in. We pushed each other each day in practice.I loved to play with him.

You played 5 seasons with Jyvaskyla Basketball Academy). How vital was Mikko Tupamaki for your early basketball development?

When I was young I couldn´t handle mistakes. I would get down so fast when I missed a shot. He helped me grow mentally. I will always appreciate him for that.

You began your basketball career with Vantaan Pussihukat Juniorit. What memories do you have of these days. How did your game develop there?

I had the green light there and could do what I wanted to. I had my own team. Coach always told me that we can go as far as we want with me. It is always good for a very young player to have that opportunity to be able to carry a team.

How respected is Gordon Herbert in Finland? Have you ever met him?

I never met him. He is very respected in Finland.

Your 28 years old. What dreams do you still have as a player?

I want to reach the highest level and use my full potential. This year with Frankfurt is very important for me to be able to make the next step.

The toughest player that you faced that reached the Euroleague was Petti Koponen. What do you remember from that battle?

He was already older and had problems with his hip. He couldn´t do much anymore. He is the most known player that I have played against.

Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Rene Rousseau, Christian Lutete, KJ Jackson, Andre Wesson, PJ Raymond

What is your NBA, Euro and Finish Mount Rushmores?

Jordan, Lebron, Kobe, Derrick Rose

Nowitzki, Jokic, Giannis, Tony Parker

Lauri Markkanen, Petteri Koponen, Shawn Huff, Hanno Mottola

Who is your Goat?

Michael Jordan

Thanks Chuku for the chat.