Ronald Howard (181-PG-1984, college: Mayville St.) is an ex player that spent many years overseas and since retiring has focused his energy on helping unknown players get exposure by organizing games and in many cases helping them find professional jobs. He founded Howard Hoops in 2013 where he brought numerous players overseas to help them find jobs and since 2018 has started the Howard Hoops academy where he helps train unknown players and help find basketball jobs. He started Revizion Sports International which helps players get placed on professional clubs. He took Howard Hoops back to Italy in the summer of 2025 to compete at the Mastercage combine. He spoke to germanhoops about basketball

Thanks Ron for talking to germanhoops.com. Where ae you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

Right now, I’m in Wisconsin Dells, coaching my oldest daughter’s basketball AAU team at a tournament. It’s incredible to see her and her teammates, who are just 12 and 13 years old, hold their own against 15-year-olds. Watching their growth, maturity, and passion for the game is truly inspiring and motivates me to push myself further as a coach. Life has been treating me well, especially being back home with my family in Minnesota. Balancing family life and coaching is challenging but rewarding!

Time really flies. How many interviews do you think have we done since you began helping players overseas get basketball jobs?

This is my 11th interview with EuroBasket! It’s hard to believe how time flies, but every conversation adds depth to our shared mission of connecting players with opportunities overseas.

It has been 11. Do you get feedback from guys over the years and how appreciative have some been over the years?

Absolutely! Over the years, I’ve received heartfelt feedback from players about how our work together has impacted their careers. It’s gratifying to hear their stories of growth and success, knowing that our collaboration has played a part in helping them navigate their journeys.

We last spoke a year ago. At that time you were coaching girls. Then you had an adventure in Ireland? How did it come to that?

After coaching girls’ teams, I was presented with an exciting opportunity to coach a professional men’s team in Ireland. It was a natural next step, given my extensive playing experience overseas. I’ve always aspired to coach at a high level in Europe, and this experience has shown me that I’m on the right path.

How was the experience in Ireland? You were a coach again but coaching men instead of girls. What positives could you gain from that?

Coaching in Ireland was tremendously rewarding. The intensity and competitiveness of coaching men required a different approach, and it challenged me to adapt my strategies. I learned invaluable lessons about player dynamics and leadership, which I can now apply to my coaching back home.

You told me that HoopSpot would be reborn in 2025. How has that been going?

HoopSpot is thriving! I’m excited about the new adjustments we’ve made to the app, especially in supporting athletes with NIL deals. It’s empowering for players to earn while studying, giving them a chance to carve out their own paths, whether or not basketball becomes their main career.

You recently had another combine in Italy. Italy seems to have more advantages than Germany now?

Italy offers a vibrant basketball culture with numerous opportunities for players. During my recent combine there, I observed how the competitive environment fosters talent and growth. The feedback I received from players was overwhelmingly positive, and I believe we can learn a lot from the Italian approach.

You had a sponsor with Mastercage. How was the combine? What positives could you get out of it?

The combine was a fantastic experience! Working with Mastercage opened doors to new networks and opportunities. Among the participants, Rathen Carter stood out with his explosive athleticism and defensive skills. Ty Watkins, our elite point guard, demonstrated impressive control and scoring ability. Both are currently exploring contracts in various European leagues, and I’m hopeful for their success.

Do you believe that you might have a combine again in Germany sometime?

Absolutely! I plan to host another event in Germany in January 2026, just like last year. I believe it’s essential to continue creating pathways for players to showcase their talents and secure opportunities.

What is your opinion about NIL? Many young Germans will be playing in the NCAA this season and get paid. This makes the NCAA more competitive but also weakens the leagues in Germany. I´m more old school and like how college athletes are amateurs, but now they are getting paid. This whole dog mentality like it was say 20-30 years ago isn´t there now. Young players don´t have the hunger as much when they are getting gifts, paid and told how great they are before they have achieved anything.

NIL presents both exciting opportunities and challenges. While it allows young athletes to monetize their talents, it also risks diluting the competitive spirit that once defined college athletics. I believe that fostering a hunger for growth and achievement is crucial, even in this new landscape.

What is the next step for you? Do you have any new projects lined up in 2025-2026?

Looking ahead, I’m exploring new projects and collaborations. I’m eager to continue bridging the gap between players and opportunities in Europe, and I’m excited about the potential for growth in both HoopSpot and my coaching journey.

I forget who your GOAT is but I´m sure it´s Michael Jordan. But stat wise and longevity good argument is always said for Lebron James. However Why isn´t Kareem Abdul Jabbar not mentioned more in this conversation?

Kobe Bryant holds a special place in my heart as my GOAT, but I recognize Michael Jordan’s influence in paving the way for greatness in our generation. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s contributions often get overshadowed, but his longevity and skill set deserve recognition in any GOAT conversation.

Can Oklahoma start a NBA dynasty?

Absolutely! With the right mix of talent, coaching, and teamwork, any franchise can build a dynasty. It’s all about consistency and the ability to adapt to challenges as they arise.

Is Shai Gillgeous-Alexander the best point guard in the NBA?

While I wouldn’t name him the best, he’s definitely in the top five. His skill set and adaptability make him a formidable player, and I’m excited to see how he continues to develop.

Thanks Ron for the chat.