Joshua Petteno (193-G-1999, college: IUP) is a 27 year old 193cm guard form Italy playing his second season with German Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. He got early basketball experience playing for the Umana Reyer Venezia U18 team. He also got experience in Italy playing with Gemini Murano (Serie C) and Virtus Murano 1954 (Serie C). He then spent 5 years in the United States and played with Northwest College, WY (JUCO) averaging 14.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 75.7% and Santa Fe College (JUCO) averaging 4.2ppg, 1.6rpg. He then played 2 seasons with Young Harris College (NCAA2) averaging 7.9ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 47.7%, 3PT: 46.1%, FT: 69.6% and 11.0ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 83.3%. He then finished at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (NCAA2) averaging 4.2ppg, 3.9rpg. Last season he played with the Dragons Rhoendorf (Germany-ProB) averaging 8.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 77.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Josh for talking to germanhoops.com. The Dragons Rhondorf played a test game against Regionalliga team Giessen Pointers. How important is it at times to play a lower ranked team for self-confidence?

I think that overall confidence comes from practicing our plays. It is vital to apply what you practice. I don´t think who the opponent is makes a difference.

What was your impression of Regionalliga team Giessen Pointers?

They were solid and pushed the ball well. They also did a good job taking advantage of the mismatches. They played with a lot of energy and gave a lot of effort. We could learn from them.

Welcome back to the Dragons Rhondorf. What were the main reasons for coming back?

At the end of the day, I had a really good time here. I felt very comfortable in the community. It was natural to come back. I´m looking forward to a new adventure this season.

What have you learned to appreciate most about the German culture?

That´s a good question. I never really thought about it. I would say the bread.

What is it like playing for a coach like Max Becker who is 5 days younger than you? What have you learned to appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

I think that because we are so close in age, we know how to connect. We are able to relate to many things because of the age.

Guys have come and gone. What is your impression of this years team? Could this be a title team?

I feel that this team has a lot of potential. I think that the young guys will be focused to prove themselves again and make another step forward from last season. Daniel Mayr will be a big factor as well as the others who stayed. I like the new guys who have been integrated well. There is a good balance and a good chemistry is growing. We still need time to really come together, but we are on a good way.

What kind of a style will we see this season. Fast and aggressive defense?

I think that our style will be as aggressive as possible at both ends. We also have guys who can create and we are young which is a strength.

What has been your impression of Mychael Paulo? Is he the 2 way player that will make an impact at both ends of the court?

He is a solid player that has experience. He has a good rhythm and knows how to control the pace. He brings good energy and is also a good shooter.

What has been your impression of new American Sahmi Willoughby. Have you noticed his Dennis Rodman rebounding abilities?

He is physically really strong. He will be really hard to guard at the Pro B level. He can also shoot and drive. He will be an important piece for our team.

What has been your impression of Justin Onyejaika? He took a step back to make 2 steps forward. What part of his game will shine most?

I haven´t seen him yet since he has been injured.

How talented is Dusan Ilic? Could he really break through this season?

I hope so. He has time here to take the next step. He has time to gain confidence while establishing his game.

How refreshing is it having a giant like Daniel Mayr on the court? Is he100%

He has tons of experience and has size and versatility. He also brings a nice inside out game.

Last season you averaged 8.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 77.8%.. How content were you with your game?

I came late last season. I was in a tough situation as I wanted to establish myself without stepping on anybody. I helped the team stay in the league and then gain the playoffs.

What are your personal goals with your game this season? What new steps do you want to make?

I have to help as much as possible. I want to help as much as last season and more. My goals are more ambitious than last season.

You are categorized as a 3 and D player, but you are truly more than that. What other part of your game shines?

I think it always depends the situation I´m in if I´m really that 3 and D player in a game. I have the capacity to affect the game in many ways. At the end of the day, it always depends on the situation.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Dusan Ilic?

If we are in the post, I win hands down. But if he is allowed to run, then it will be tough.

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Kwai Leonard, Michael Jordan, Shaq

Who is your Goat?

Lebron James

Thanks Josh for the chat.