William Lee (206-F-1995, college: UAB) is a 30 year old 206cm forward from Alabama playing his 7th professional season and first with the EPG Guardians Koblenz. He turned professional in 2018 playing in the G-League, Serbia, Tunisia and England. He began his basketball career at Dallas county high school and then played at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (NCAA) from 2014-2018 playing a total of 132 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks William for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with the EPG Guardians Koblenz. What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about it?

It´s been ok. The guys and staff have done a good job making sure my living conditions are comfortable. The EPG Guardians organization is very professional.

Guardians sport director Thomas Klein called you a player that makes the difference in games. What have you appreciated most about him and Marco Van Den Berg in their vision of having success for this organization?

I want to thank both of them for reaching out to me and getting me in their quest to help them remain in the league. I also give them a big shout out for researching about me and feeling I could help them stay in the league and help them in more ways than one. Now I have to show thanks by performing at a high level.

The Guardians are in a fight to stay in the league. You saw the team be great against Vechta 2, but what do you feel needs to be worked on more so the team has no more slip ups and can generate a winning streak?

Key for us will be to remain physical. We have to remain physical with opponent´s guards and bigs and not allow anything easy. Oure hedge defense has to be better. We let too many guards turn the corner instead of making them retreat.

What positives did you see on the defensive end against Vechta? Can this be a ball club that gives up 70-75 points per game?

Yes I think we could. On the defensive end, we have to keep teams out of rhythm. We have to remain physical and if we can do that, then I think we can keep teams to 70 points or lower

The team often turns to crazy 1-1 ball when there is adversary. How vital is newcomer Alexandre Bouzidi for bring that incredible calmness to the offense and generating team basketball?

He is so smooth. He had 9 assists. For his first game in this league, that’s insane. He plays with so much poise and at his own pace. He is a rookie but plays like a veteran. He also communicates well. He is very patient and see the paly before it occurs. Sky is the limit for him.

What was your first impression of Leon Friederici? He scored 10 points in a span of 4 minutes. Is that walking bucket stamped on his forehead?

Of course he is. Leon is a professional. He has BBL experience. He has that special mentality and just knows what to do. I´m sure that he will continue to score in bunches and will continue to get the ball from us when he is hot.

What is it like being teammates with rim protector Moses Poelking? What do you appreciate most about his game?

The thing that I appreciate most from Moses is just how much space he takes up. Every basket he got yesterday was under the rim. It is hard to contain him. He knows his spots and understands game well. He just needs to take his time on the free throws.

I stated during the game if every player on the squad played with 20% of that energy that Dominique Johnson has then the team would be in a totally region in the standings. How much of an impact does he have on the team?

DJ has a great impact on us. He is our glue guy and voice of the team. He helps us stay together, organized and disciplined. He is smart and doesn´t get intentional fouls.

How much fun is it playing with Ty Cockfield. He reminds me of Boston Celtic JD Davidson. Does he play like a mini Derrick Rose?

That makes sense about Rose. I love to play with TY. He is the leading scorer on the team. He finds his spots on the pick and roll and always gets to the rim. Nobody can stop him. He is also consistent. He is also a great guy off the court as he makes sure everything is all right with me.

You played the last 2 seasons with Manchester. Your coach was Vincent Macauley who coached in Germany this season with the Artland Dragons. How did he help you develop further there?

Vince is one of my favorite coaches ever. He makes sure that your Ok on and off the court. He does a good job putting the team in a good position to win. He helped me so much mentally. He would always give each player a quote. That helped me prepare for life. My favorite quote was this. “Go as far as you can see. Once your there, go further”. He really helped me move forward in life.

You had so many great games with Manchester in your 2 seasons including a 14/13 game and 7 blocks against Plymouth. What was your favorite performance with them?

Yes it was. That was a crazy stat line for me.

Yu played a season with the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 11.7ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.5apg, Blocks-2 (1.4bpg), FGP-1 (70.2%), 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 72.0%. Was this your best pro season in terms of stats?

I think it was. We just had a really good team. We had a good point guard in Geno Crandle and good bigs. Every guy could score. It just made everything so easy for me to get to spots and contribute. It was my best shooting season. I don´t think that I took a bad shot.

You had your first tour of duty in Germany in 19-20 with the Nuernberg Falcons BC (Germany-ProA) averaging 7.0ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 63.3%. How tough was not ending the season as Covid arrived?

Covid was tough for all. It was the first time something like that had happened and cancelled a season besides the NBA lockout. It was universal. At first it was tough for me mentally, but as soon as I knew that my family was ok, I relaxed more. I got up shots in a park and stayed fit and ready for the next opportunity. Playing with the Nurnberg Falcons was a great experience. I think that we would of made the playoffs that season and made a run.

You split your rookie season with KK Dynamic Vip Pay Beograd (Serbia-KLS) playing 1 game and then moved to the Iowa Wolves (NBA G League) averaging 5.5ppg, 4.8rpg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 26.5%, FT: 71.4%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My first culture shock was when I had to have a translator. I remember coach giving a 10 minúte speech and then all the translator said was that you need to play harder. At that moment I thought I need to do something to try to understand the language.

In the G-League you were teammates with NBA veteran Hakim Warrick who was way past his NBA days but played his last pro season with you. How vital was he for a young buck like you?

Hakim was a veteran. He played at Syracuse and played with legend Carmello Anthony. I was able to learn so much from him like how he prepared for a game, how he took care of his body and how calm he was on the court. He was so poised and nobody could aggravate him. He always kept it simple.

What kind of a grind was the G-League. It is difficult to get a NBA call up playing only 16 minutes. You had your moments scoring 24 points and battling Duncan Robinson who had 21 points. What is your summary of your G-League season?

It was a great experience. It is more of a faster pace game than overseas and a lot of 11- play. No team basketball.

In the summer of 2018 you played NBA Summer League with the Memphis Grizzlies. What kind of an experience was that? What was your coolest moment in Vegas?

It was a very humbling experience. I played together with Jaren Jackson and was around Jerry Stackhouse. I was so blessed and grateful to be able showcase my skills on such a big stage.

You had a great career at the University Of Alabama Birmingham averaging in double figures in scoring in 3 seasons and averaged 6 rebounds per season. How did your game grow there?

I just learned how to play the game there. I learned to be patient on offense and get the right position on defense. I also learned to enjoy the game as well.

As a freshman you lost to the powerful North Carolina (NCAA) having a 5/4 game. What memories do you have of battling Kennedy Meeks?

I was young. We played them at their place. The atmosphere was incredible as it was sold out. That game was my welcome to the NCAA. Every player at North Carolina from 1-12 could ball. It was a great experience to play against them.

What memories do you have of your Big dance run in 2015 beating Iowa 60-59 and losing to UCLA?

It was always my dream to play at March Madness and win. Unfortunately that didn´t happen, but we did win 1 game. That wasn´t easy. We had a great team with great team chemistry and everyone understood their role. That was like a Cinderella story.

How did head coaches Jerod Haase and Rob Ehsan groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

The most important moments were in practice where they helped me understand the game and what to look for. We watched a lot of film and they helped me understand defensive rotations. They were good coaches and put me in good position at both ends to be successful.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Chris Cokley?

We never played. He is a great player. We still talk to this day. He was a beast.

Who was the best player that you ever battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Monte Morris and Norman Powell

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Lorenzo Cugini, Dick Williams, Chris Cokley, Taz Green, Nick Stampley

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kevin Garnet, Shaq, Steph Curry

Who is your GOAT?

Kevin Garnet

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

Yes they should of.

Thanks William for the chat.

William Lee (206-F-1995, college: UAB) is a 30 year old 206cm forward from Alabama playing his 7th professional season and first with the EPG Guardians Koblenz. He turned professional in 2018 playing in the G-League, Serbia, Tunisia and England. He began his basketball career at Dallas county high school and then played at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (NCAA) from 2014-2018 playing a total of 132 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big win over Vechta 2.

Thanks William for talking to germanhoops.com. How do you feel the day after the big 109-69nwin over Vechta?

I feel good physically and mentally. I did some treatment with Rueben today. I´m excited about what is to come in the next games.

You came and conquered in your first game. Did you eat anything special on Sunday?

I didn´t eat anything special. It was a regular day. I ate a pizza.

The EPG guardians Koblenz have had a tough season. It was on a 8 game losing streak. Then out of nothing you came along with Alexandre Bouzidi and literally the team wins like that. Were you a bit surprised how well the team played? What was your feeling going in?

I´m always excited. I was a little nervous, but I have put in the work in the lastyears. It was time for me to perform. I feel like the team was gelling well and the team chemistry is still growing. Guys are knowing where they feel comfortable.

You scored 7 of the team´s first 10 points. Did Marco Van Den Berg give you the green light right from the jump to do your thing? The team was trying to find you.

I guess I had the green light. Coach just told me to play my game. I saw that first one go in and my team just kept feeding me. As we continue to grow, it could be other guys stepping up. Anyone can get hot on this team.

You found your groove right away. What was your impression of the Pro A. How would you compare it to the BBL in the UK?

It´s a similar basketball style. I have to get adjusted to how the refs make calls. I don´t want to get into early foul trouble so I have to get used to their tendencies. The fans are great in both places.

You began hot and your energy helped everyone´s elses energy. Are you naturally a guy that speaks more with actions than words?

100% agree. I lead by actions and words follow. I have such a passion since I began to play at age 15. I have that passion to do my very best each time that I´m on the court. I always want to leave the best impression on the court.

Thomas Klein told me at halftime that your playing in another league. How big a part of your game is your midrange game?

My midrange is 80% of my game. To me it´s simple. I take 1-2 dribbles, get to my spot and then it´s target practice.

You can be the difference maker. On a team with many scoring options, would the go to guy suit you?

Yes. I can make that adjustment. I have been on many teams where I was the main scoring option. I can adjust to that or lock in on defense. I will always give my team what it needs most. Basketball is a team sport and not individually based.

You ended the game with 19 points and 9 rebounds and had 2 steals and 4 blocks. How content were you with your game?

I´m not satisfied, because I know I can give more and I want to give more. I missed some blocks. I always want to be perfect.

You made an impact on the defensive game. The Guardians defense has been a sore point this season. Do you feel like you could become the defensive anchor of the team?

Yes of course. I was the leading shot blocker at Alabama-Birmingham. It is in me to protect the rim and get defensive rebounds and get my team advantages on offense. I´m used to protecting the rim, but I can also defend the perimeter.

The Guardians shot very well and as always rebounded well. What was the biggest strength on the team in the win?

I think that our biggest strength was that we stuck together as a unit. We didn´t go our separate ways. We communicated well and had the same mission to win.

Going into the Vechta game there seemed to be concern the players didn´t understand the importance of the game and what it has to do to stay in the league. Do you feel like your teammates knew and will continue be focused?

Yes 100%. The guys are more locked in on winning now. They got that taste of winning yesterday and now know how good it feels. We will be more mentally locked in now.

What was your favorite play of the game? Maybe your alley-oop or one of your 4 blocks?

I had a lot of ones, but I think it was the lob from Leon Friederici for the alley-oop dunk. We wanted to run that the play before and then the same situation came up again and then it worked.

What did you think of the Mac McClung dunk over the KIA car? That was better than the Blake Griffin dunk years ago?

I didn´t watch it.

Thanks William for the chat.

The losing woes of the EPG Guardians Koblenz has become like a disease in 2025. The team has lost 8 games in a row and continued to dig themselves deeper and deeper into a hole. They just can´t put together a strong game for 40 minutes at both ends. Last weekend, they defended well in Tuebingen, but like so often couldn´t hit the ocean with their shots. Every new loss has an even bigger effect on them mentally. Even if their next opponent Rasta Vechta 2 was the dormat of the Pro A, they had been playing their best basketball this season having won 3 of their last 5 games. They were finding themselves as a team and in 4 of 5 games gave up only 73ppg. The club´s play was definitely in an upward spiral. “I see Vechta winning 6-7 more games”, stressed EPG Guardians Koblenz manager Thomas Klein. On a cold Sunday afternoon, SC Rasta set foot in the EPG arena hungry for more wins, but on this afternoon their hunger was left in Vechta as they were run off the floor from the EPG Guardians Koblenz for their first win in 2025 107-69. The Guardians began on fire and just kept punching Rasta Vechta 2 and they had very little answers and less punches to give back. Koblenz finally had an excellent shooting day showing that they can be an explosive offensive team. “We came in very well prepared for the game and we came out with a lot of energy. I began well and all followed my energy. We had good ball movement and simply hit shots. We played very physical and didn´t allow anything easy. We allowed little open catch and pop plays. It was a total team effort”, stressed Alabama native William Lee (206-F-1995, college: UAB). SC Rasta Vechta had been playing good ball as of late, but on this day just stunk up the EPG arena as it was simply one of those days at the office where nothing worked. “The first half was a catastrophe for us. The second half was better where we lost only by 1 point. We had no energy coming into the game. We simply didn´t have the balls to come out and play the way we should”, stressed Rasta Vechta 2 guard Roy Krupnikas.

Moses Poelking at the FT Line

The EPG Guardians Koblenz were without Ben Stevens and Yassin Marfouz, but came out red hot taking the quick 10-5 lead. In the run it was newcomer William Lee that had a debut that any guy would dream of. He came out and scored 7 of the 10 points and he looked as if he had been on the team since day 1. Thomas Klein won the sweepstakes with Lee. “He plays like he is in another league. He brings that much needed seniority and leadership at both ends of the court. His play carried everyone else. He simply can do it all”, stressed Thomas Klein. Rasta Vechta American Philipp Carr who played at Morgan State (NCAA) and in Portugal last season carried his team with 2 buckets. The Guardians were doing it at both ends while Lee carried the team and his good energy pushed his teammates. The offensive explosion carried on as Koblenz continued the rout going on a swift 13-4 run to extend their lead to 23-9. Koblenz continued to share the ball well and spread the love around as Lee scored again as did German center Moses Poelking and Dominique Johnson nailed a trey. The Guardians were also aggressive and reached the free throw line as Poelking and Boehm added points. The Guardians pick and roll defense sparkled as did their help defense. Koblenz kept the pressure on as ex easyCredit BBL player Leon Friderici produced 5 points and William Lee continued to shine with his mid range game with a basket as the Guardians led 30-13. “We defended very well. Our help defense was excellent. They did have some misfortune in that they missed 3-4 open three´s. We had a good rthym and mix of inside out basketball”, stated sport director Thomas Klein. The EPG Guardians Koblenz shot 73% from the 2 point area and 50% from outside and had 12 rebounds and 2 turnovers while Rasta Vechta 2 shot 40% from the field and 17% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 2 turnovers.

Kevin Smit from Downtown

The offensive clinic of the EPG Guardians continued in the second quarter as they exploded again with a few more points totaling 36 and leading 66-29 at halftime. The EPG Guardians followed their first quarter start with another massive start going on a 11-4 run to lead 41-17. They displayed good inside out basketball, but in this run concentrated a bit more on the three as Johnson connected for 2 and TY Cockfield for another. “DJ is our captain and glue guy. He keeps all together and disciplined”, said William Lee. Moses Poelking continued to have total ease getting easy baskets as French newcomer Alexandre Bouzidi made the perfect pass. The French guard who won the 2024 U-20 European championships and hit Germany with 22 points and 9 dimes showed from the first second that he is the perfect playmaker that the Guardians had always searched for. “He sees absolutely everything on the court. It is incredible how well he fits in and is running the offense with only 2 days of practice. He spreads the floor so nicely”, stated Thomas Klein. Ex EWE baskets Oldenburg guard Kevin Smit and Carr combined for 5 points which was much needed then, but Koblenz still had the comfortable 43-23 advantage. But that little burst of energy from Vechta didn´t stifle the Guardians in anyway, but instead Koblenz contiued to rattle off points after points going on a 23-5 run to have the incredible 37 point lead at half-time. In the run, Leon Friederici showed that he is an instant walking bucket adding 10 points. He showed that when he is feeling it, he just doesn´t stop, but keeps shooting. Rookie Michael Bradley from Texas also added 2 buckets while Lee also scored. Cockfield also added 4 points. Even if Cockfield added 17 points, he was a bit in the shadow of Lee. Cockfield wasn´t stressed having to do so much and was calm and picked his spots better than usual. “We hit even better in the second quarter. We kept the rhythm very well. Johnson began with shots and Friederici ended. We were playing modern basketball”, stated Thomas Klein. The EPG Guardians Koblenz shot 70% from the 2 point area and 70% from the three point line and had 26 rebounds and 6 turnovers while Rasta Vechta 2 shot 35% from the field and 23% from the three point line and had 13 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Michael Bradley from the parking lot

In the third quarter the EGG Guardians weren´t as explosive on offense as in the first half, but still executed well and Rasta Vechta 2 began to hit more shots as they added 21 points, but still trailed badly 90-50. The first few minutes weren´t one dimensional as Rasta Vechta 2 actually was able to trade baskets with the Guardians. Smit and Luke House who played at Drexel (NCAA) hit three´s while Poelking and Bouziidi made lay in´s for the 72-37 advantage. William Lee continued to demonstrate his great play with an alley oop dunk getting the perfect feed from Leon Friederici. “We had tried it the play before, but I just told Leon that the lob was there and to look for me. We tried it on the exact next play and it worked”, smiled William Lee. In the next 3 plays there were 2 dunks by the Guardians from Poelking and another from Lee and NBBL champion Linus Ruff connected for a trey, but Rasta Vechta 2 still trailed 76-40. Both teams were executing well on offense, but that didn´t help the guests cause as they couldn´t make any ground and were far far away from ever getting over the hump. Cockfield and Bradley made some baskets while the guests countered with Danish guard Jonathan Klussmann and 2022 JBBL finalist with Rostock Roy Krupnikas. Poelking continued to get easy looks as he made a hook shot as Bouzidi continued to have his eyes on him and found him at ease. “We continued to play well and kept up the energy. We went into the second half as if it was 0-0. We never lost our focus and stayed together as a team”, added William Lee. “Coach Gruhn wasn´t happy how we played the first half. It was shame how we played. Their 1-1 play and physicality hurt us. We did a better job matching their physicality”, commented Roy Krupnikas. The EPG Guardians shot 73% from the field and 53% from the parking lot and had 38 rebounds and 10 turnovers while Rasta Vechta 2 shot 37% from the field and 25% from the parking lot and had 22 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Justin Onyejiaka at the free throw line

Rasta Vechta 2 had their best quarter of the game in the fourth quarter outscoring the EPG Guardians Koblenz 19-17. Both teams executed their first possessions as David Boehm hit a pick and pop while Klussmann nailed a trey, but Koblenz still led 92-53- Then proceeded a massive long period where no teams scored as there were 10 stops with 5 from each team. Moses Poelking stopped the negative no points phase with an old school hook shot. Bouzidi didn´t only hand out dimes, but also showed that he could create for himself as he made a lay in while Luke House hit from outside but the guests still trailed 96-56. After another Johnson trey, Marco Bacak who played 2 seasons in Leverkusen made a lay in while William Lee added his second to last basket of the day giving the Guardians the 101-58 lead. Lee finished with a great game showing his versatility at both ends with 19 points, 9 rebounds, 2 steals and 4 blocks. “I just wanted to win. I came into the game to do whatever it took to help us win. I wasn´t looking at the stats. I wanted to be a team player”, warned William Lee. Both teams executed well to the end as Lee added another three pointer and Cockfield his patent mid distance shot while the guests got 2 baskets in the paint from Ruff and an off balance shot from Carr. “Teams tend to let up when you have a big lead. We lost some energy and they hit some shots”, added William Lee. “We had no stress down by so much and just played more free. It was fun playing like this. We should of played like that from the start”, warned Roy Krupnikas. The EPG Guardians Koblenz were led by William Lee with 19 points. Leon Friederici and Ty Cockfield added 17 points a piece while Moses Poelking and Dominique Johnson added 15 points a piece while Rasta Vechta 2 was led by Jonathan Klussman with 14 points while Linus Ruff added 11 points. The EPG Guardians Koblenz shot 62% from the field and 41% from outside and had 48 rebounds and 13 turnovers while Rasta Vechta 2 shott 35% from the field and 29% from outside and had 29 rebounds and 9 turnovers.

Tyren Johnson (202-PF-1988, college: Louisiana) is a 36 year old 202cm forward from Louisiana playing his 15th professional season and first in Germany with the SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels (Germany-BBL). He began his basketball career with West St John high school. He then played with the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (NCAA) playing a total of 114 games. He began his professional career in 2010 over seas in Belgium. In the last years he has played in many various countries including France, Turkey, Japan, Greece and Mexico. He spent most of his career in France playing 9 years there. He also spent a season in the G-League. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the easyCredit BBL top 4.

Thanks Tyren for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your 15th season and are 36. What is your secret to your longevity besides the usual blab la of keeping your body in good shape? There must be other reasons as well?

Well, keeping your body in good shape is the simple answer. Everything about basketball is simple. Years of discipline from training, nutrition, managing of stress levels, and very disciplined sleep schedule extends your playing career.That’s the simple answer. The other reasons is because I’m still on my journey. I treat my career like a movie. Every season I have something that I’m playing for. Something that motivates me. That keeps the seasons exciting. I haven´t been playing for the money or to play at the top levels. I understood early that there’s politics in this business and some things you just can’t defeat. So I try to live in the moment and not focus on the future or the past. The young players also inspire me. It brings me joy that I can see them blossom. Last but not least I’ll be involved in basketball for the rest of my life. So I’m also using these seasons as internships. I’m studying my coaches and teammates everyday so that I can prepare myself for whenever I takeover a team coaching. It keeps me going.

You have played in so many parts of the world but most of your career in France with 9 seasons. How big is the adventure in you, to continue to seek new opportunities in new countries at your age?

It’s huge, because I’m just starting to enjoy my career. I’ve always put so much pressure on myself to strive to be the best that I didn’t really enjoy playing the game. Now at 36 I still feel good, and haven’t had any significant injuries. If I don’t get the type of job I’m looking for next season I think this will be my last year in Europe. I love Europe, but I would like to explore different markets before I retire.

What has it been like playing for the Syntanics Weissenfels? The organization has a lot of history. What have you enjoyed most of the opportunity?

It’s been very interesting playing in Weissenfels. I told my agent I wanted a challenge. He’s been my agent for some time now, and he knew French teams felt I was too old so we had to try a different market. I told him I wanted to stay close to my wife’s family. She is Belgian. When he told me about Weissenfels I instantly told him yes. I like the small town teams. It’s been fun mainly because of my team. I don’t do much in the city, so I’m kind of consumed with basketball everyday. It’s hard to find teams where all the teammates get along. It’s been super fun playing with this group of guys. We have a good mix of guys from all ages. The thing that I’ve enjoyed the most is seeing everyone get better week after week. We have a very demanding coach who seems to specialize in getting the most out of his players. In the beginning I have to admit I wasn’t receptive of this style of coaching, but he has unlocked parts of my game that I’ve never used before. We have surprised many teams this season, and that’s what I live for. I love being the underdog. I would feel better winning a championship with a team like Weissenfels instead of a team like Bayern. Nothing against Bayern, but they have advantages that should always have them fighting for titles. Teams like Weissenfels have to create a special environment, and seeing it all come together is very fulfilling.

The club has many key players including you. What exactly is your role on the team besides being a leader and mentor?

We’re not given direct roles. But I think my role is to use my versatility and IQ. I can play 3 positions so that gives us some advantages. Being a consistent shooter and helping out on the boards is something the team expects from me.

What is it like having big German Martin Breunig as a teammate? How valuable is a guy like that for your game?

He’s good for my game because he’s versatile too. He can play the four or the five. So we’re in the game together we’re very interchangeable. Plus he has good hands. I love to attract attention and get him some drop offs so he can get some easy buckets.

The playoff picture at the moment couldn´t be more exciting. The places between 7-15 are so tight that anything can happen. Are the Syntanics a team that has the potential to do more than just reach the playoffs?

I think so, if we stay humble and hungry. We can compete with anyone. But we have to stay humble. We need every guy on the team to max out their abilities.

You won 2 titles in France and have the opportunity to do it again with the BBL Cup. All it takes is 2 games. How excited are you to play the cup top 4 on your own floor in Weissenfels?

Just another game for me. I’ve been to many titles in my career. I’m a different type of player when it comes to supposedly big games. I treat them all the same. Titles don’t excite me. Maximizing our abilities do. If we do all we can and we lose I’m satisfied. If we win it I’m satisfied, but I’ll be right back to practice focusing on the BBL the next week.

The team has to be very very motivated to face FC Bayern Munich. You played them once and won at home 79-75. How big is the mind set to do it again?

I think the mindset is big. Many guys are excited about the chance to do something special. For some guys this could be career changing. Having the Cup at home also helps with the motivation. We’re all small city, but this could be a big accomplishment for our dedicated fans. That’s the beauty of the game. The stories that it creates. We have a chance to do something special, and I think the guys are excited about that.

In that first game they destroyed MBC on the boards and shot the three better. But the MBC held them to only 7/17 form the 2 point range and to 18 turnovers. What else was key for the win?

I don’t remember much from the game. I just remembered we played extremely free and confident.

Is this cup game perhaps one of the top 5 biggest pro games in your career? What will be key to getting win?

No I don’t think so. I guess because I’m new to the league. I don’t quite understand how big this is. I’ve had some big games in my career. I’ve been to many championships. I think the key to getting the win is to play our brand of basketball. Rebound, play uptempo, and knock down shots.

Last season you played with Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 10.8ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 78.5%. What was it like playing with explosive scorer Chris Clemons? How will you always remember his game?

Me and Chris had chemistry from day one. Chris is one of the best shooters I ever played with. We had this high pick and pop that was difficult to stop because one of us always had a mismatch. He was fast and strong for his size. Plus we have a good relationship off the court so it made the chemistry even better on the court.

You played with ADA Blois Basket 41 from 2016-2023 winning 2 titles. How special was this time? Was there never the thought of ending your career there?

ADA was a very special time for me. I feel like I never left. I’m still very connected with the team. I plan on being connected with them as long as possible. It’s like family for me. Definitely a home away from home. I’ve built many lifelong relationships there. The supporters of that community was special for me. I was connected to the staff in the office, the president, the coaches, the supporters, and even the kids. I knew the kids on a first name basis. I was really involved in that community. It made playing for the club that more special. I’m forever indebted to that club. The moments we created were special. Yes I thought I would retire there. But once again I know this business. They’re like family now so I didn’t want the business and the love get in the way. So we decided it was best for me to leave when I did. If it was up to me though I would have played for ADA until the end.

You played 6 seasons for Mikael Hay. That is a long time to play for 1 coach. How did he help you most in your thirties to keep expanding your game?

I get emotional talking about him. He was really everything for me and my career. I didn’t know a thing about European basketball even though I played multiple years in Europe. I depended heavily on my talent. He taught me how to use my brain. He was patient with me. Most coaches are threatened by my personality, but he let be myself. He taught me how to accept coaching. He demanded me to be consistent on a daily basis. He was tough on me, but he also gave me freedom. The combination of those two things were great for me. I think the best thing he taught me was how to trust my teammates. Once I learned that we became very successful as a team. I love that guy man.

How special was playing Pro A your last season there after paying your dues in the Pro B in your first 7 France seasons? Which win over the Euroleague teams Monaco, Asvel and Paris was the most special?

It was very special. I had always wanted to play Pro A with a team from Pro B. I received offers in Pro A multiple times, but they all were a joke. So I wanted to prove a point. I wanted to win my way there and then make everyone pay who didn’t take me serious.
I think the 2 wins over Monaco was special. I don’t think anyone thought we would be close. Like I said about playing in Weissenfels. I love to be the underdog that surprises teams.

You were teammates with a young Kevin Punter. Did he have that Euroleague potential already in 2016? Would you have thought that he could go that far then?

Yes, all he needed was the opportunity. I saw it in practice. He worked hard daily as a rookie. He did it on his own. Nobody had to tell him get in the gym and put in extra work. That impressed me.

You lost to Panathinaikos but held your own with 10/6 stats. How special was holding your own against so many great players and guys that reached the NBA?

I’m not the kind of guy that gets excited about things like that. It just a team, and they’re just players. I knew given the right situation I would be playing against them on a nightly basis so I was never really impressed. I live in Houston in the summer. We beat up on NBA players everyday.

In 2015-2016 you played with Kyoto Hannaryz (Japan-BJ League) averaging 16.9ppg, 7.9rpg, 3.3apg, 1.6spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 68.4%. How was that experience in Japan. What was your coolest moment off the court?

Japan was a very great experience. I had a great time there. The team was very close and we had a great season. The style of play was different but it fitted my game perfectly. It was more American style. I don’t like the style of European basketball. So it felt good playing the style I wanted to play. The team was very professional. Everything I needed was being taken care of. The coolest moment off the court was after the games the fans would have goodie bags for you. They would research the things you like and try to put in a gift bag for you after the game. They did a lot of research to make you feel at home. I thought that was very cool.

In the 2014-2015 season you played with Okapi Aalstar (Belgium-Scooore League) averaging 12.8ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 72.3%. That was your second tour of duty there. I can imagine this club will always have a special place in your heart, because of giving you that first opportunity overseas?

Okapi is right up there with Blois for me. Obviously Blois was my most special club, but Aalst was also special. It goes back to the same thing. I was very involved in the community there. The head coach was Brad Dean. After Mikal Hay he was the next most influential coach for me. They believed in me. We went to the championship my rookie season with Aalst. We were on path to do great things my second tour, but we lost one of the best centers in the league (Tofi) and it’s difficult to replace him. Aalst will always have a special place in my heart.

I actually saw you play in Frankfurt in the Eurochallenge that season. That was a strange 2 game series. Each team killed the other team at home. You had some great players with Braun, Clark and Lodwick. You have had sooooo many teammates, but do you actually keep in contact with one of these 3 players?

I keep in touch with Braun. We were the closest on that team. He was a rookie so I had to help him adjust. We keep in contact on instagram every now and then.

In the 2013-2014 season you balled with Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket (France-ProB) averaging 15.8ppg, 6.1rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 64.0%. What memories do you have of that season? At this time you had totally established yourself as a top player in the Pro B.

That season was interesting. I had pretty much retired from basketball. I went to Toulon because I was bored. I didn’t have much ambitions because I was sick of the business of basketball. We ended up having a good season. The team was in trouble before I got there and we finished strong. Playing with Axel Julien was a pleasure. He was a bonafide winner. Also coach Laurent Legname was very instrumental in me being excited to continue my career. He gave me a lot of freedom that year, and I was able to do great things there. We was a close team. I still keep in contact with Clemont Cavollo.

In the 2012-2013 season you played with Chalons-Reims (France-ProB) averaging 14.5ppg, 6.2rpg, 2.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 59.8%. It was your first season in the France pro B. What memories do you have of Justin Burrell? At this time he was in his second season. He is like you a dino and still playing today and carved out a great career in Japan. How worthwhile were the battles in practice then for you both?

JB was like Megatron. It was so easy playing with him. He got every rebound, played above the rim, and had a pretty good mid-range. He’s easily one of my favorite teammates. That guy is hilarious. He’s like a big teddy bear, but once the game starts he morphs into something else. Me and JB used to go at it in practice. He was in great shape. I used to talk a lot when I was young. JB didn’t like that. During practice he told me “Watch when you come to the locker room, I’ll be waiting”. Practice was over, and I stayed about an hour after working on my game. JB was still waiting for me lol. He wanted to beat my head in. We laughed about it and he ended up cooking dinner that night. He loved to cook. That’s how it was with us. We competed hard, but we also had a great relationship off the court.

In the 2011-2012 season you played with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers (D-League) averaging 11.7ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 70.3%. That was a long time ago. Has anything changed in the last 13 years in how clubs select guys from the G-League for the NBA? Obviously today the NBA is even more athletic.

I’m not sure about what’s going on with the G-League. I do know that the players are getting paid more, and I’m happy about that. The G-League is more competitive than Europeans think. As for how NBA teams select guys today I feel it’s a bit better than when I played. Especially with the two way players and exhibit 10 contracts.

What memories do you have of the G-League. There weren´t many guys that reached the NBA that season? You were teammates with the eccentric Courtney Fortson and other guys that played in Germany like Lee Humphrey. Do you ever feel like you were close to a NBA call up?

It was an amazing season. I got to play for Nick Nurse. Another great coach. He’s been an NBA coach ever since I left. I made the G-League All Star game. That was pretty fun. I was averaging about 21ppg. I was one of the top guys on the call up list, but the Rockets sent down Marcus Morris and that kind of killed my season since we played the same position. The G-League works like that also. Another reason why I’ve retired twice. I get tired of the politics sometimes.

You played your rookie season with Generali Okapi Aalstar (Belgium) averaging 9.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 18.0%, FT: 62.8%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

They had to force me on the plane. I truly didn’t want to come to Europe. For many Americans coming to Europe is like a punishment. I knew I was far away from home when I got hungry around 10pm and wanted to go and get some food. Everything was closed. I was used to the connivence of America. Grocery shopping really humbled me. As far as basketball I never really had a wake up call. I didn’t respect my situation at the time. I was just focused on getting back to the NBA.

That season you were teammates with 4 great Americans. All guys that played in Germany with Stan Burrell, Anthony Hilliard, Chris Copeland and Alex Ruoff. Which guy had the biggest impact on you that season? I could imagine Chris Copeland?

Chris Copeland for sure. That was my big brother. We did everything together, and we still keep in contact to this day. I played position three that season. When I came back for my second stint with Okapi coach told me he wanted me to try at the position four. I studied a ton of Chris Copeland film. I basically stole his game. He was a great player.

You played at the University Louisiana at Lafayette (NCAA) from 2006-2010. You made a massive jump in your game in your senior year averaging 17.9ppg, 8rpg, 3.3apg, 1.8spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 69.0%. How did your game grow there?

My game grew gradually in college. I didn’t come into college a big name. I was the last guy recruited. So I knew it was going to be tough to get minutes cause I didn’t have a name like the other players. Early in our freshmen year everyone seen very quickly I was one of the most talented. There was just no space for me to play. So I buried myself in the gym and waited for an opportunity. I didn’t have a college life. I spent most of my time in the gym and studying. I came in pretty raw with limited skills because I started playing at 16. I was extremely motivated and hungry to be great. I think that’s how my game grew because I started from the bottom. The only way was up.

How tough were your first 2 seasons there? Did you sometimes doubt the NCAA process?

It wasn’t that tough because I wasn’t stupid. I understand the business of basketball real well. The coach that recruited me left and went to another school. So I knew I didn’t have anyone to support me except the head coach. I never doubted the process because I would dominate practice and the streets. I just needed an opportunity. I knew it would come because we were losing a lot of games. At some point they were going to have to try something else.

How did head coach Robert Lee groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Lee prepared me very well for the game. Everything he pretty much told me came through. He let me know what to expect. I was very immature, and I needed a guy like Coach Lee to be honest with me. He also prepared me with skill work. When I got to college I didn’t know what a triple threat position was. So we got to start from the bottom. A lot of the things he taught me I still use today. I’m very thankful of Coach Lee.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Lamar Roberson?

Lamar is one of my best friends. I use to dominate him 1 on 1 lol.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career that reached the NBA?

I went against Paul George a lot. But there was also a guy named Andre Emmit (RIP). He was difficult to contain.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

That’s difficult you put me on the spot lol. I have so many friends that were my former teammates. Chris Copeland, Thomas Cornely, Ben Monclair, Thomas Hieu Courtois, and Suleiman Bramioh. If you’re talking about most talented. Chris Copeland, Frank Mason, Chris Clemons, Kevin Punter, and Shevon Thompson.

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kareem Abdul – Jabbar, Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Tracy Mcgrady.

What is your take on the Luca Doncic trade? How crazy is it to digest that as a fan?

I think it was a good trade for both teams. The Lakers get a star for the next decade with Luka being so young. It also opened them to a more international market. Dallas got one of the top players in the league. They will be competing for a championship in my opinion. It’s not crazy for me as a fan. I understand this business real well. I don’t put anything past any team. At the end of the day us as players are just numbers. Sad reality, but it’s the truth. If a 25 year old superstar can get traded what do you think about the rest of the league? So when things like this happens I don’t have much of a reaction. I like to see how things turn out in the end.

Who is your GOAT

Lebron James! My favorite player is Tracy Mcgrady though

Thanks Tyren for the chat..

Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheinStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.

Fans of the RheinStars and Ahorn Camp Baskets couldn´t have asked for 2 more season games. The RheinStars won the first duel by 2 points and today they got revenge by 2 points. How were they a better team now than in the first game? They had 6 guys score in double figures.

Yeah tough lost for us. They made some big shots and punctuated on our mistakes and turnovers. We still had chances to come out with the victory but just came short.

The first quarter was tight, but they upped their game in the second quarter and had the 3 point lead at the break. What was key at half-time for them having the lead?

We had too many careless and unnecessary turnovers. We made stops but gave the ball back to them where they made baskets off of.

The game was a real battle in the second half. You were up 85-83 with 6 seconds left. The Ahron Camp Baskets forced OT as Marco Dordevic scored. Talk a bout that last play. Did you feel like you let the game get away? Hennen could of sealed the win earlier.

Yeah tough luck for us,. We secured a rebound and was called for an offensive foul which gave them the ball and they scored. I think we could’ve been more focused on defense for that possession.

The RheinStars trailed form the start in overtime and couldn´t get over the hump. The RheinStars had their chances but a Hennen turnover and missed three from Michels sealed the win for Speyer. Did they want it more in overtime?

We had the possession to come out with the win. We just didn’t make the shots or execute as well as they did down the stretch of the game.

Did the shooting percentages cost the RheinStars the game? Better shooting probably would have gotten you the win before overtime?

Yeah but it was also other things like turnovers and the 50/50 loose ball that we didn’t come up with.

You had another very solid game with 15 points in 20 minutes. On a team with so much scoring power, are you content with 9 shots in the game?

Honestly I was on a good run but unfortunately I got injured and wasn’t able to finish the game after a few minutes into the 3rd quarter.

You next paly Ehingen on the road. They played you very tough in the first game winning 84-81. What will be key to getting win?

I think we have to rebound better, come up with the 50/50, and make better decisions and finish better on offense.

Thanks Malik for the chat.