Marko Zarkovic is a Serbian coach that was hired to coach the Dragons Rhondorf in mid season. He has had experience coaching is Estonia and Latvia. He was with the Telekom Baskets Bonn organization from 2020-2024 where he was headcoach of the youth teams U-16 and U-18 and also of the Telekom baskets Bonn 2 team in the Regionalliga. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Marko for talking to germanhoops.com. You are the new coach of the Dragons Rhondorf. How does it feel coming in in mid season to help the team? Thank you for reaching out! It feels great to work in one of the historic teams in Germany! Dragons are the team with great tradition and great fans! It is an honor for me to work here!
One could say that you are a bit of a fireman coming in. The Dragons aren´t near the bottom, but also not near the top. Do you see yourself as a guy coming in to help save the season? I believe we have a good team and we can compete with every team in the league. I can just promise I will do my best every day and that is what I expect from the players also.
You have been with the Telekom Baskets Bonn organization with the youth and Regionalliga team. Have you followed the Dragons Rhondorf season?
Yes, I have followed Dragons since I came to Germany, reason is because I always had several players practicing and playing for the Dragons.
I personally have seen little development in the last months. The team is 4-4 since December one. How do you see the current situation of the Dragons Rhondorf? Like I mentioned, in my opinion we have a good team. My job is to help the team establish identity and gain bigger confidence. When we do 100% of our abilities and play on the same page we will be a much better team.
I feel like the team is simply not playing up to their potential. Could a problem be in their heads? Because the talent is there. That is the part of the problem for sure. We have to break that mental barrier and move from this situation. I see smart and hard work as only solution for the situation.
Talk a little about your coaching philosophy. How would you describe yourself as a coach?
I like to start with defense, still believe that it wins games. In offense I want to see unselfish team that plays with a lot of confidence. Simple basketball is the best basketball but in the same time most difficult to reach.
Have you worked with some of the young Dragons talent that they have currently on the team`? Yes, I know big part of the team from before. We worked together in Telekom Baskets Bonn. Only I didn’t know the older players, but the first impression about them is also very positive.
The team has problems with consistency. What is your main goal that you want to achieve right away as new head coach?
I want to establish a defensive identity. That would be the first thing. Second is to raise energy level of the team. We always need to be “hungry” on the court.
The teams defense is just unacceptable the way it has played. What is your biggest goal with trying to clean up the defense? That players take individual responsibility. We can guard the ball much better. Also, we have to rebound as a team.
The team just doesn´t have the kind of personal like they did last season. I thought it was a big risk going into the season not having depth at the center position. Is there a way the team can become more versatile then just always concentrating on three´s?
We need balance between inside and outside game and even without traditional 5 we can create it if we use our tall guards and wings in a smart way. It is not easy but it is possible
It seems like last season there were more vocal leaders on the team. Can you develop more leadership with this roster?
I will talk with each player individually and tell them what should be their role. Like that we will try to have more clarity and develop our leadership.
What is the status of Tim Smith Jr? Will he play on Saturday or will Daniel Westbrook suit up? Tim is recovering quickly but we will make that decision before the game. He will play only if he is 100% ready.
On Saturday a very ambitious team with the Fellbach Flashers will be in town. How vital will rebound work be against talented and experienced big men like Daniel Mayr and Brian Butler? The Dragons will have to give more than 100% effort on the boards.
Yes, we are playing against a good team. And we will have to rebound with all 5 players for 40 minutes. Only like that we can neutralize lack of the size. We see it as a challenge that we can overcome.
It would be great if the Dragons Rhondorf can win their first game under your guidance. Will the Dragons concentrate more on themselves or with Fellbach?
We will obviously prepare for our opponents very seriously, but we will focus on ourselves, we want to maximize our potential and play hardest possible. With the support of our fans we can grow and show our best face, like that we can leave the court with heads up, no matter of the result.
Markus Roewenstrunk is a German coach who has been coaching for 20 plus years. At the moment he is the head coach for the Artland Dragons as Pat Elzie has taken a leave of absence. He has sampled experience in Spain and mainly in Germany being with organizations like Herford, Konigsdorf, Cuxhaven, Dresden, Dragons Rhondorf, RheinStars Cologne and BG Bonn. He spoke togermanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Markus for talking to germanhoops.com. You have seen a lot as a coach the last years. Now another new challenge this time with the Artland Dragons. What kind of an experience has it been so far?
Hi Miles and thank you for the opportunity to share my experiences. It has been great with the Artland Dragons, a professional organization, with very good facilities to practice and play but even better people who take care of everything needed to focus on basketball. Therefore, the signing of the players, the arrival and medical checks, as well as the pre-season with all the events and games have been going very well.
You have been head coach and assistant for teams. Shouldn’t But wouldn´t the goal beafter a while to try to always get a head coaching job after you have paid your dues. Why be an assistant again?
Yes I have been an assistant and head coach through out my 10+ years of professional coaching and I like to think that I am a great asset at both positions. I haven’t taken on the responsibilities of a head coach in ProA so being the assistant to the UK great Vince Macaulay is a good fit. He appreciates my help with the German approach and system.
How enticing was coming to the Artland Dragons and working for Vincent MacCaulaey and Pat Elzie? I´m sure that many others would take that assistant job?
Oh yes, I believe there were many applicants, but I was very fortunate that I have known Pat for quite a long time. He reached out to me after he was appointed as the sports director with the idea of bringing me to the program regardless of the head coach. I was very excited about that opportunity and have enjoyed everyday since I am here. Working together with Pat and Vince but also Marius Kröger and the other staff members has been very good.
What other reasons were there coming to the Artland Dragons? What do you like about the organization in general?
Well, the club has a very interesting history, playing in the BBL with widely known players and coaches such as Chris Fleming and Arne Woltmann. Even though now we play in ProA, the organization still works very professional which made my decision to come here a lot easier. Additionally, the distances between the apartments and the practice facilities as well as the arena are very short so that working becomes highly efficient. I appreciate these factors.
What did you enjoy most about the coaching philosophy of Vincent McCauley? He is a UK coach. One doesn´t always see them in Germany.
Yes, there aren’t many but that makes it even more interesting. He shares his experiences and stories through the British lens, and I can tell him about the Basketball development here in Germany. Vince is a very friendly and open person; we exchange our thoughts and strategies regularly. Specifically, I enjoy his approachability for the players and myself as well as the fact that he allows all players to show him their abilities.
What were your main duties as assistant coach this season and what is your greatest strength as a coach?
The question should be, what are not my duties, joking. I am involved in pretty much everything. We have a great team manager in Ole Reumann who organizes our schedule, practices, games, travelling etc. but of course in exchange with me. I then filter what the head coach has to be included in and what I can spare him with. Same goes for events and school practices that our players attend which I manage with our Mini-Coordinator Andre Röding. Apart from that I scout the opponents, create videos, support or run practices and drills. So, everything ?? and because I am pretty well organized, I enjoy the challenge and the diversity of the tasks.
There was turbulence so far in the pre season with players going. Despite that how much potential does the team have? Well, we had a relatively hard pre-season schedule with quite a few first league opponents. It showed us in what areas we had to improve. According to that we made some changes and acquired two players rather late. Their integration is still an ongoing process and by far, we have not reached our full potential yet. What that potential may be exactly is not that simple to say but we are aiming for the play-offs.
How vital is a guy like legend Joe Asberry? He brings a real breath of fresh wind. He could not only excite young kids for the game, but keep the pro´s in check with his experience or not? Oh yes, very much so. Joe is a motivation monster and just a good guy to have. The experience he has as a player, coach, social worker, and in life in general is very valuable for our pro’s. His famous saying is: “it’s the work you put in when nobody is watching …” and even though it’s becoming a running joke here, its so true. Joe is a great asset for the entire Artland Dragons organization.
You were a pro player in the late 90´s2 and early 2000´s2 which was a very long time ago. How do you remember the game being back then in comparison to today? How would you have survived as a pro in today´s game as a young buck?
The game was different, not so much P&R, more mid-range and post-up and less 3p shooting. For example, many coaches didn’t allow 3 pointers in transition whereas today that is a good shot. But in general, I believe that most old school pros could also play today and vice versa. To become a professional player in any sport, you have to have a strong mindset and work attitude. So, pros from the past would adjust to today’s fast pace and shooting dominant game just as players today would develop mid-range skills and become more physical (if talking about NBA).
I started playing basketball relatively late when I was 16 years, and I worked my way to second Bundesliga and NCAA with defense, rebounds, and hustle play. Over the years my offensive game also became better. I guess the later would have to develop faster than it did back then but player development and practices also changed so that I am confident I could have achieved the same or more if I would be a young buck now ??
You were teammates with Pat Elzie in 1997 in Paderborn and also played for him in the second Bundesligain 1998 he was coach. How has his coaching changed and developed in the last 25 years? Teammates is a bit overstated; Pat was the second league head coach but played a few games with the second team in Regionalliga and I was a double license player. So, I was fortunate to share the court with him a few times and loved his guidance. As far as I know Pat has always been a player’s coach. He was always authentic, approachable, empathetic, and caring. Making sure that the style of play would match the skills of his players. And even when players were not the right fit for his teams, he tried to find them better situations and didn’t leave them hanging. I remember that he had us play the flex offense 1998 in Paderborn, he was running it in Vechta and after as well. But of course, he developed and adjusted his coaching over his long career. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have been so successful through many decades.
You played with the College of the Sequois (Junior College) and with CSU Stanislaus (NCAA). What memories do you have of those days? Against what great players do you remember playing against in those days that reached the NBA? It was a totally different age of basketball. The moment one of my best friends, Emeka Erege, went to high school in the US and later played college ball at Davidson, I wanted to do the same. Fortunate for me, Pat Elzie had great contacts of course and helped me get try-out opportunities with different colleges. I decided for the 2-year College of the Sequois (COS) in California at first because I thought it would be a great start into a new life experience. I also loved the sunny weather, and the presence of the German women’s player Anja Goebel made the adjustment much easier.
It was worlds apart from what I knew in Germany though and it was a different age of basketball, as you said. Before the season started, former COS player and NBA prospect DeeAndre Hulett (drafted by Toronto but never played) dropped by for pick-up games, and I was able to impress him and the others with my effort and rebounding. However, my team was very athletic, and I had to get used to the speed of play. But I was able to excel in the aggressive full court press and amoeba defense that coach George Tarkanian had taken from his legendary dad Jerry. We made it all the way to the California State Finals but came up a bit short. My second year, NFL great Antonio Gates (San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers) was my teammate, just a beast in basketball as he was later in football. Great memories and the chance for me to experience life and basketball in the US.
You also played in Kronberg in 2004. What memories do you have of seeing the Skyliner double license players like Alex King and Malik Badiane play there? Badiane had been drafted by the NBA and never made it and Alex King came out of his shell later and had a great career. I played in Kronberg with Alex King and Fredrick Kleemichen. Malick only played with the Skyliners, I believe. It was quite an experience playing with these two very talented players. Freddy was way taller than I and Alex was so strong for a 19 year old. It was a big challenge going against them in practice since I had lower back problem already at that time but it was very much fun when together on the court versus other teams. Later on, it was great to see how succesful especialy Alex became. About two years ago, when I was with the RheinStars Köln, Alex and I coached against each other in NBBL.
You always had to pay your dues in coaching, but 10 years ago worked with Pat Elzie again in Vechta. How do you remember those days? He helped that team move up to the BBL.
As a player, I never thought about coaching and I kind of regret that now. I wish I would have written down more from my coaches. Because after years of having lower back problems while playing, a disc herniated and ended my serious active time too early in 2007. However, not doing anything basketball related only lasted so long before I started coaching on the side. Then Pat again gave me a great chance coming to Vechta in 2013 to work as a professional coach for my first time. It was a great situation coming in because Pat just moved them up to BBL and the excitement of the organization and the fans was amazing. During that year, I was able to move the second team past Quakenbrück with Isaiah Hartenstein to Regionalliga and got to coach great youth players.
The second year with RASTA, I was trusted to be the ProA assistant coach for Stephen Arigbabu. Unfortunately, the season didn’t go very well but it was a great learning experience and in Stephen I found a dear friend and mentor. Since I am back in that region now, I get to remember those two years quite often with people from back then.
You also coached 2 seasons in the Regionalliga with BBGC Herford. What is the biggest challenge coaching in the Regionalliga in comparison to higher leagues?
Well especially the Regionalliga West has a very high level, close to that of ProB, but both leagues often face difficulties in structure and resources. Usually, these teams like BBG Herford can only employ a hand full of players full time so that practices have to be in the late evenings after work or university duties. Most often the gyms are owned by schools/cities, making it a competition with other clubs and sports for practices times. Even in ProA many clubs are not as lucky as we are here in Quakenbrück with a team of full time professionals and our own facilities.
You also coached in Cuxhaven and also coached in the youth? What memories do you have of that season?
Cuxhaven just moved back up from Regionalliga to ProB but didn’t want to continue working with the success coach Moris Hadzija. It was my first time as head coach in ProB and I think we did a pretty good job recruiting. But the structural conditions were not easy leading to two players leaving early and the replacements not filling the void. Towards the end, management brought in a veteran coach first as support who later took over. The experience of being fired sucked but since my duty was also to promote the youth during that season, I continued coaching a mixed under 12 group and enjoyed that very much.
You also coached in Dresden. How many strides has that organization done in the last years under Fabian Straus? You kind of set the ground workgroundwork in your season?
The Dresden Titans have developed very well over the last years under Fabian Strauß. The groundwork for the promotion to ProA and the continuing success was set after my short sting, however. I took over in December 2018 and we held the league, a change in management lead to my departure after the season. I am excited to return there with the Artland Dragons, talk to people but also to get the W.
You also coached in Rhondorf. How tough was coming in late and not saving the team and then being fired the next season? You may want to change the question a bit, I was hired in the summer of 2019 after they dropped down.
I was hired in the summer of 2019 after Rhöndorf dropped down from ProB to Regionalliga. Simultaneously Thomas Päch took over Telekom Baskets Bonn and the cooperation between the two as well as the Hagerhof basketball boarding school was supposed to be refreshed. The goal for the Dragons was to develop the young German players such as Kilian Binapfl, Gabriel De Oliveira, the Falkenstein brothers etc. and at the same time win the league and move back up again. Many new wheels in place. We then didn’t start the season as well as we should have but it was a very young team, and I felt that getting fired after only 6 games and a record of 3:3 was not called for. Especially a young team needs time to excel.
I don´t know if you keep tabs on ex players you coached, but why is a guy like Curtis Hollis not balling in Europe. Since he left the Dragons in 2020, he has really paid his dues and now making good strides in Canada, but wouldn´t he have had a better resume now overseas?
Of course, I check on former players of mine and its great to see when they do well. Curtis has come around a bit, he played in Central America, Africa, Canada… But it seems that he likes it up north now. Maybe he could have a better resume if he stayed in Europe, he is a great athlete with good skills. I don’t know on what basis he made his choices; they don’t necessarily have to do with basketball. Nevertheless, I wish him all the best for the new season and thereafter.
You were 3 years in the RheinStars Cologne program as JBBL and NBBL coach. You saw some very talented young Players come up like Kenan Reinhart and Davi Remagen. What positives could you get from this experience?
I didn’t just see them come up; I worked a lot with these two and others. In 2020 when I started as the JBBL head coach for the RheinStars Köln, Anton Krings was coaching the under 14 with Kenan and Davi. He highly recommended that they should be with the JBBL as well even though they were only 13 years old. Anton was very right and did a great job developing them before I continued the process. The first season however was cut short due to corona but since both were state selection players, I was able to work with them countless hours on a 1on1 basis (in the beginning even with a mask on). We used the time as good as we could improving dribbling, finishing, shooting, and decision making. The following year the JBBL team was really clicking and improving over the course of the season, making it all the way to the second round of the play-offs. It was so much fun to see their rapid developement and joy for the game.
The experience with those young players was amazing. The fact that the RheinStars have their own practice facility (just like the Artland Dragons) is huge for kids, enabling vast amounts of hours on the court. At the same time, it is very important to monitor the stress load on those young tendon, ligaments, and joints to reduce the risk of early injuries.
You have coached so many young German players over the years? Which player do you remember being the most joy to coach?
Like you say, I have coached many but if you ask about recently, I have to go with Davi Remagen. Unfortunatly, Davi was hurt for the most part of the great 2021/22 JBBL season but I was so impressed by his moral and work ethic. Since he couldn’t take part in team practice, again we spend hours and hours working on fundamentals and not ones during those long months did he not have a smile on his face and his hopes up to return to action. In the beginning of 2022, he reached 81 made free throws in a row at the age of only 14 years old. I am very excited to see how he will do in the ProB this year and Kenan Reinhard in Bonn/Rhöndorf.
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore and Euro Mount Rushmore for coaches? My NBA Mount Rushmore for coaches is: Red Auerbach, Phil Jackson, Gregg Popovich, Pat Riley
My Euro Mount Rushmore for coaches is: Svetislav Pesic, Zeljko Obradovic, Ettore Messina, Pablo Laso and maybe one day Gordon Herbert (through a German lens)
Which coach is your GOAT?
I am an old school Chicago Bulls fan, so I go with Phil Jackson. He also got the same last name as I do now (laughing).Thank you very much Miles for the interview and the chance to share my story a bit. You have been doing great work all these long years, highly appreciated.
Ross Williams (178-G-2000, college: TAMUCC) is a 24 year old 178cm guard from Oakland, California playing his second season with Fribourg Olympic (Switzerland-SBL). Last season with Fribourg Olympic he averaged 10.5ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 41.5%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 85.9%; BCL: 2 games: 3.0ppg, 1.5rpg. He began his basketball career at Bishop O´Dowd High School. He then played 2 seasons at Menlo College (NAIA) averaging 4.8ppg, 1.6rpg and 15.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 84.4%. He then played 2 seasons at Colorado Christian University (NCAA2) averaging 19.6ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 75.0% and 19.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 42.7%, FT: 78.5%. He then finished at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi (NCAA) averaging 9.9ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 88.4%. He spoke to germanhops.com before a Fiba Eurocup game against the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg.
Thanks Ross for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second season with Fribourg Olympic (Switzerland-SBL). You have lived in so many places in the States because of your Dad as a NBA and coach. Can you call a place like Fribourg like a second home or is that more difficult because of how much you have moved around
Fribourg is definitely a place that will always have a special place in my heart since I started my career here. Second home for me is probably Oakland California.
You won the double as a rookie with Fribourg and currently are undefeated. How special is this organization and what has been the secret to the team success? I think the secret to our success is our chemistry off the court. Our locker room is really close and everybody has taken time to get to know everybody so when we get on the court we are always on the same page
Your showing this season that you are very consistent in 3 different competitions. Has your experience playing with so many different schools prepped you for being consistent? I would definitely say playing at 3 different levels in college has prepared me for this moment this year. Playing in different competitions you have to able to adjust to the style of play and the refs but this year I feel like my teammates and coaches have put me in really good positions to succeed.
How vital was a guy like Eric Nottage your rookie season? Was he like a mentor for you?
Eric is definitely like a mentor to me we are really close off the court as well. Especially as a rookie he really took me under his wing and taught me a lot I will always have a lot of love and respect for him.
What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
My wake up call as a rookie was definitely my first practice. My teammates and coach were speaking a totally different language the style of play was different than anything I had ever experienced and I realized right away that I was a long way from home but it was a new challenge that I was determined to succeed in.
Last season you beat Nyon and Geneva in the playoffs and then played a tough series against Massagno. The first 2 games were combined decided by only 4 points. What memories will you always have from that final? I’ll always remember winning a championship my rookie year but it was a really cool experience. Every possession mattered and guys were playing the best basketball of the season so it was just a true blessing to be out there competing with those guys.
You played 1 NBA Summer League game with Detroit. What kind of experience was it for you? Did you hide the fact who your dad was or did they know it? Summer League was a really great experience. I really wanted to see if and how I could compete with those guys and it gave me a reality check of things I need to work on and get better at but gave me a lot of confidence that I can play and compete against anybody. The whole coaching staff knew but some of my teammates didn’t know but found out when my dad came to all my games.
Let´s talk about your game? You’re a 178cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? If I had to give an NBA comparison for my game I would say athree guys I really try to model my game after are Lou Williams, Isaiah Thomas and Patty Mills. The way those guys as undersized guards affect the game with their speed, and scoring ability.
Are you just by nature more of a competitor on the court because your 178cm? Is getting overlooked part of your daily life?
Most definitely my whole life basketball has never came easy always being looked over or told that I can’t make it or play at a certain level so everytime I step on the court I play with that chip on my shoulder not to prove people wrong but to prove myself right that I can play against anybody.
Your definitely a guy that can fill the stat sheet at ease. What is your biggest strength? You showed at 3 different levels NAIA, NCAA 2 and NCAA and shot over 40% from outside. Yea my biggest strength is definitely my shooting ability being able to make 3s and touch shots from the perimeter is definitely what I bring to any team that I am a part of. Also my defense being able to pick up players full court and bring energy and fast pace to the game.
You haven´t reached the 40% mark again the last 2 pro seasons. Is it difficult setting goals as a shooter when you shot 40% each season in school?
No not really I don’t put too much pressure on myself and even though I haven’t surpassed the 40% mark I’m really close last year I shot like 39.7% so I know I’ll always be a threat from 3 so much that you definitely can’t leave me open. But 40% or more is always the goal for sure
What advantages do you have as a defender with your size? Is it easier to get steals than for bigger guards? Yea my size definitely helps when it comes to playing defense on the ball being able to put pressure on guys and get steals.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
The next progression of my game is definitely becoming more of a point guard so really working on my ball handling and making reads off of pick and rolls and trying to make my teammates better as well as finishing around the basket so I’m a 3 level threat whenever I’m on the court
You’re the son of ex NBA player and coach Willie Green. What is the most important of advice that he has given you for basketball? The most important advice my dad ever gave me is first you have to play every game like it’s your last nobody should ever question your effort and energy because those are two things you have 100% control over. The second is always have fun and play with joy at the end of the day basketball is a game so it’s important to always have fun because the ball will stop bouncing for everybody one day.
You saw so many NBA games and players. Did you ever meet Kobe or Lebron? I know you saw Dwight Howard play and he had an impact on you. Which NBA player that you have met had a big influence on you?
Yea I got the chance to meet both of them so that was really cool. The biggest influence has been a mixture of Chris Paul and Jose Alvarado. I really look up to both of them.
You worked out with Pelican player Jose Alvarado. How vital is for you being able to soak up as much as you can? Does your confidence rise when you see I can keep up with him?
He’s definitely like a big brother to me so being able to ask him questions and compete with him definitely keeps me hungry but give me a lot of confidence as well.
You began in NAIA. How humbling was that time for you? Yor game really grew in your second season at Menlo averaging 15.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 84.4%. How did your game grow in that season? I put in a ton of work that summer playing with a lot of older guys and overseas pros and when I got back to school the work met the opportunity and my teammates and coaches put me in really good positions to have a lot of success that year.
You then made the jump to Colorado Christian University (NCAA2) averaging 19.6ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 75.0% and in your second season averaged 19.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 42.7%, FT: 78.5%.How much of a turning point was this in your career?
I really wanted to challenge myself and move up to the D2 level. I went to a really good league we had like 4 or 5 teams in the top 25 in the nation so it was good competition. Being able to have success at that level gave me a lot of confidence to further my basketball career after college.
You had so many great games, but also tough loses against Chadron State and Yellowstone scoring 37 points. Was there a loss more difficult? Fortunately in my basketball career I’ve been a part of a lot of good teams so we didn’t lose a lot. Colorado Christain even though I was putting up numbers we lost a lot and I hate losing so all the loses were hard both years I was there.
How important was head coach Liam Simmons for your basketball development in those 2 years?
Liam Simmons gave me a great opportunity. Put the ball in my hands and trusted me to make decisions but also made sure I had tons of gym time and a lot of individual works it’s with him and the assistant coaches which really helped grow my skill and understand for the game.
You finished at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi (NCAA) averaging 9.9ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 88.4%. What memories will you always have of March madness beating Semo and losing to Alabama?
March Madness was surreal experience having watched it on tv my whole life and then finally getting to play in it was amazing. The first game against SEMO was in Dayton Ohio and I’m from Detroit Michigan which is not too far so a lot of my family made the drive down so being able to get that experience in front of my family was definitely the best part. Playing against Alabama in front of a sold out crowd was amazing too 20,000 people watching you do what you love is an unforgettable moment.
How did Steve Lutz give you the last push for a professional career?
Mainly time management and what it was like to truly play as hard as possible and made me a way better defender. Playing for Lutz also taught me how to play a role on a winning time embracing a team culture and just being addicted to winning. I got a lot of love for coach Lutz for sure.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Damarion Davis
I didn’t play with Damarion Davis but I played a lot of 1on1 with Owen Dease, Terrion Murdix, and Jourdyn Grandberry who are all really good players and sometimes I won and sometimes I lost it was a pretty even battle every time and we played pretty much everyday.
Who is the toughest player that you faced that went to the NBA? I would say either Marvin Bagley in high school or Trae Young at top 100 camp.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Elijah Hardy, Terrion Murdix, Eric Nottage, Khalid Price, Bj Shaw
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? My NBA Mount Rushmore is Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant and Allen Iverson
I did my homework. Your GOAT is Kobe. That is a great choice. Why is he your GOAT?
My goat is Kobe because of his approach to the game and his work ethic. Every night he wanted to go out and kill no matter who he was playing no matter if he was injured or not if he could play his intent was to dominate. But he dominated because he out worked everybody behind closed doors and because of that he will always be the greatest in my eyes.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
I did see it and the first coming to America was one of my favorite movies of all time so I definitely feel like that’s a movie that should have never been recreated and just left alone. It’s a true classic.
Kevin Hunt Jr. (190-G-1997, college: Denver, agency: Helping Ballers) is a 26 year old 190cm guard from Little Rock, Arkansas playing his second professional season and first with Gartenzaun24 Baskets Paderborn (Germany-ProB). He played his rookie season with the Little Rock Lightning (TBL) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 38.7%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 78.6% and then went overseas playing with BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers (Austria-BSL) averaging 16.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 3.8apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 50.5%, 3FGP: 26.7%, FT: 57.1%, and later that month moved to Tundja Yambol (Bulgaria-NBL) averaging 12.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.2apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 76.9%. He began his basketball career at Bryant High School and then played at 4 schools. He began at College of Central Florida (JUCO) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.7rpg, 4.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 24.2%, FT: 73.5%. He then played a season at McNeese State University (NCAA) averaging 6.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 67.4% He then played at Morehead State University (NCAA) averaging 6.9ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 77.8%. He finished his NCAA career at Denver University (NCAA) averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 78.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Kevin for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?
Thank you for interviewing me! It’s such a pleasure. Right now, I’m in the moment, not getting too far ahead of myself and moving forward from the previous days.
Your playing your second professional season and first with the Gartenzaun24 Baskets Paderborn (Germany-ProB). What kind of experience has it been for you personally having seen basketball in Austria and Bulgaria?
The experiences are all unique yet common from a basketball standpoint. Austria as you know was my first team and place to start my professional career overseas and although it didn’t turn out how I’d like it to personally, I enjoyed my time there. Bulgaria the same, I had great teammates and the city of Yambol was welcoming and put into place a different perspective of life for me. Basketball wise, I’ve got to see the difference in the style of play and really have gotten better in the sense of angles, knowing how to play better without the ball, and I think that’s what has helped me grow into the player I’m slowly becoming.
You had a solid season in Austra. Would you call this season taking a step back to possibly take 2 steps forward next season as the pro B is skill wise one behind the Austria BSL?
I believe everything happens for a reason, the skill level isn’t too far off from Austria to Pro B but I will say the athleticism in the Austria BSL was slightly better. I do think that, personally, I could bump up next season and continue to progress but as for now, my goal is to help Paderborn Baskets win and get back to Pro A.
Paderborn has been playing great ball as of late. What would say is the biggest strength of the team and what has been the secret to the success in the last 2 months?
Our biggest strength is our depth in the roster. From starters to players coming from the bench, we all bring something unique to the table and any given night can be anyone’s night. Everyone has bought into the club, our coaches, and most importantly each other. That’s what leads me to my next point, our chemistry off the court shows on the court. Coach always preaches to us to put our ego into the team so that’s what we all do on a daily basis. There’s no secret to success, it’s a daily grind of mistakes and the opportunities to learn from them. I commend everyone on the staff for putting together a great group of guys.
Your having a solid season in the German Pro B. Have you been content with your game? There’s always room for improvement in my opinion. I don’t want to be complacent because then I’d feel like I’ve gotten what I want out of this season. We’re #2 in the league and want to make a deep playoff run and eventually win it all, but one game at a time.
The team recently added walking bucket Justin Andrew. How do you guys compliment each other best?
We’ve had one game together so far and about a week of practices so there’s been a small sample yet he’s fit right into the system as if he’s been here the entire season. That goes to show how good of player he is to be able to get here so quickly and adapt. He’s a shot creator and playmaker so he can do a little bit of everything. We compliment each other because neither one of us needs the ball in our hands to help the team in whatever we need that night. He’s been a great addition for us.
What has it been like being teammates with German Lars Lagerpusch? As one of the team leaders, are you able to soak up a lot from him on and off the floor? Lars is my guy! He’s such a veteran player at a young age but sometimes age has nothing to do with it. He’s been able to help me see things on the court that I may overlook. Having a forward/big like him has helped me personally because when things are not going our way, I know I can look at him and he’s poised and can get us back on track with not only his leadership but gameplay as well.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I’ve been getting De’Aaron Fox comparisons for the longest, he’s left handed like me and quick like me and have similar play styles, although, he’s a bit more athletic than I am.
You’re a guy that can fill the stat sheet well. What would you say is your biggest strength on the court?
My biggest strength on the court is my speed. I can push the ball and play in the open court. Also, my unselfishness contributes to my being able to make plays for my teammates. I like to say that I can make my teammates better not only with the ball in my hands but just a presence on the court with being vocal and leading by example.
Your three pointer has been up and down in your career. Last season you shot 43% in Bulgaria, but currently below 20%. How would you describe the development of your three at the moment? What do you have to do make the next step as a shooter?
I’ve been a solid shooter my entire life but I do have seasons where I go through slumps and most of it is in my head. I know that I can make any shot I take, but sometimes if I miss a couple in a row, I’ll second guess the next shot which throws me off. I’m a good shooter at the end of the day, the only way to get over the slumps is to get extra shots up, continue to shoot the ball, and keep my confidence rather I’m making shots or missing them.
You have also been a solid defender in your career. Where would you rate your game as a defender and to what level do you still want to get to?
Coach mentioned to me earlier this season that my defense has to improve if I want to help the team take a step closer towards the end goal. I’ve struggled earlier this season guarding but I’ve had to buy into myself and into the team if we want to achieve the ultimate goal. I’ve guarded great players in my entire basketball career, NBA players, great collegiate players, there’s no doubt that I can lock in on anyone. It’s all about going out there and doing it on a consistent basis.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game?
As you mentioned earlier, my 3pt% is far below what I’m capable of and that’s my main focus now and moving into the summer. I have a solid game from the 3pt line and in but the 3s is where I take my game to the next level!
After your NCAA career, you sat out the next season and then got your first pro experience with the Little Rock Lightning (TBL). How tough was this time for you? Did you ever doubt the basketball process?
I was in a dark time mentally during this time. Every single day, I told myself I was good enough to play anywhere, but with each day slipping away, I slowly started to doubt myself and creep away from the game I love so much. I had a great support system around me, reassuring me to stay ready for my opportunity and trust in the process. I give credit to God for allowing me an opportunity to continue playing and my support system for being a light in such a dark time.
What was it like playing in the TBL? Was every player playing for their stats or did you find some guys that played team ball? It was an ok experience, I had a good time playing with players I played against growing up in Little Rock, Arkansas. It was a selfish team of players, but it wasn’t the basketball I was used to playing at the time. I had personal problems outside of basketball that I had to attend to so I had to take a step away from the TBL.
You played your rookie season with BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers (Austria-BSL, averaging 16.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 3.8apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 50.5%, 3FGP: 26.7%, FT: 57.1%, released in Jan.’24, later that month moved to Tundja Yambol (Bulgaria-NBL) averaging 12.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.2apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 76.9%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
I’ve always been away from home since college, like hours away, but when I had to miss my first Christmas ever and being 7 hours ahead of my family, that hurt me. Only able to facetime my family and not being able to be physically there with them was a different type of sadness I hadn’t felt in a long time. I had to tell myself that this is the lifestyle that I chose and that it won’t always be like this but that was my first time.
You had some great games in Austria? Why did you have to go early and what positives could you get from the experience?
As you can see, we were at the bottom of the league, and each game you go in with the intention and mindset of winning but that was far from reality at the end of the game. I spoke with my agent at the time about other opportunities and that’s when Bulgaria came about. I remember being on the plane from Austria to Bulgaria, looking outside the window over the clouds and telling myself to never get content with where you’re at or how you’re doing no matter how well you may be doing at the time because this is a business. The positives I got from it was I knew that I could have a great career playing overseas, made some great friends abroad, and got to experience different cultures and languages. I’m the first person in my family to be able to play professionally overseas so I try and make the most out of my experiences for my younger family members that may want to pursue a similar opportunity.
You began your career at College of Central Florida (JUCO) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.7rpg, 4.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 24.2%, FT: 73.5%. Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO has said that it was a grin, but one they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you? They hit it right on the money! JUCO is not for the weak because you have 12-15 players competing for the same thing. You have to go out every single day with a chip on your shoulder. You’re playing in some treacherous places and have to grind it out in the classroom and the court. If you’re not mentally strong, JUCO will for sure be a struggle.
How important was a guy like Tim Ryan? How did he help you make the transition to the NCAA?
Coach Ryan and coach Jake both helped me understand that I can have a successful career in life let alone basketball! They were the ones who told me that I would thrive at PG which is why I’m able to play both the 1 and 2. I struggled early because I didn’t know when to score and when to pass but those are the growing pains that come with it. They guided me through those pains and reassured to me that those pains will only make me stronger in the end. Now I’m playing in year 2 in my professional career and I have them, along with others to thank for that.
You then moved to McNeese State University (NCAA) averaging 6.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 67.4%. This was your first season in the NCAA. How important was this transition for you as you continued to move forward going to other schools?
This year at McNeese was the year that set up the rest of my college years to come. I didn’t know what to expect or how I could become a better player for each team I played for. I struggled there because there was a lot of pressure I felt to perform at a high level each game but some games were better than others. I’m glad I transferred because I needed that reset to find myself within the game and find the love I was losing for the game during a challenging season.
You then played a season at Morehead State University (NCAA) averaging 6.9ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 77.8%. In your first game you played against NCAA powerhouse Kentucky having 4/2/2 stats. What memories do you have of that game and playing future NBA players? It was exciting because not everyone gets to play a blue blood school. COVID didn’t allow us to play in an arena full of people but playing in front of Calipari was surreal. The players were of course athletic and their game was well rounded but my excitement came from the experience of playing in Rupp arena in front of a legendary coach.
You then made one more move playing at Denver University (NCAA) averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 78.8%. this was your breakout season in the NCAA. How did your game grow that season? I was allowed freedom from coach Dub. He recruited me early and told me that I’d have the keys and he had the utmost confidence that I could come in to help lead DU to a great season. There’s a saying by Ray Lewis I believe, which is: “are you more afraid of a pit bull on a leash or off the leash?” That’s all I needed was a coach with confidence in me and to play freely. I credit him for allowing me that space.
You had so many great games there including a 32/6/4/3/1 game in an exciting 81-79 win over North Dakota. Was that your fondest memory there? I actually have that game downloaded on my computer. Any time I’m in a slump I refer to that game and watch it second by second. I would say that’s my best collegiate game ever because it was my career high in college. I have some many memories from DU but that one is definitely a top 3 moment.
How did head coach Jeff Wulbrun groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
One of the very first things he told us when we got to Denver during the summer is, “if you want to be a pro, then you have act like a pro” That goes from how you approach practice, games, recovery, extra reps. He put in the mindset of carrying myself as professional in every aspect of life.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tae Gatlin? Tae is my guy, we talk every week, but Tae know what it is in them 1s lol.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA? Iso Joe! Joe Johnson man, he’s from the same city I am, and I grew up watching him as well. He’s a complete player, 6’8/6’9 and 250+. He can score on all levels and he make the game look so easy man. That’s probably the toughest but I give credit to players like Daryl Macon, Jaylen Barford, and Archie Goodwin! They all make me compete at the highest level possible every time we play each other.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? I love this question! Man, I’ve had so many good teammates. In no specific order, I’ll have to go: Braylon Steen, Calvin Allen, Carlos Dotson, De’Von Cooper, and Johni Broome. Honorable mentions, Jordan (Popi) Johnson and Tae Gatlin! First two are from High school and others were college teammates.
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?
Easy money! MJ, Allen Iverson, Rajon Rondo, and John Wall
Who is your GOAT?
Michael Jordan!
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
There’s this trend of nostalgic themed movies making returns which I like the concept but some movies should be left alone and that for sure is one of them!
Eric Nottage (187-PG-1994, college: FIU) is a 30 year old 187cm guard from Miami, Florida playing his second professional season with Fribourg Olympic (Switzerland-SBL) and last season averaged 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, Assists-3 (5.9apg), 1.9spg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 33.5%, FT: 78.8%. He turned professional in 2018 and has played in countries like Slovakia, Georgia, France, Romania, and North Macedonia. He began his basketball career at Northwestern High School and then played 2 seasons at Tallahassee Community College and then played 2 years at Florida International University (NCAA2). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against German team MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg.
Thanks Eric for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your seventh professional season and for your 8 club. Do you feel like a basketball globetrotter?
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this, I’m grateful. I wouldn’t necessarily say a globetrotter but I am grateful for the experiences that I’ve had in my seven years being a professional. I’m grateful for the teams that have given me an opportunity to showcase my skills, it’s been great.
Your playing your fourth season in Switzerland and for your third team. Has Switzerland become like a second home for you? What do you appreciate most about the country?
Switzerland is starting to grow on me as a second home because I’ve been here for so long. I’ve become accustomed to the way of life here and kind of used to the quietness of Switzerland. The thing I most appreciate about Switzerland is the quietness, it’s really chill here and that’s something I value the most.
You won the double as a rookie with Fribourg and currently are undefeated. How special is this organization and what has been the secret to the team success?
The organization here in Fribourg is very special everyone takes care of each other here, it’s basically a family away from family. I’m forever grateful for this organization welcoming me with open arms and allowing me to be myself. The secret is it’s a family, we genuinely care for each other, we all want the same thing and that’s to win.
Your showing this season that you are very consistent in 3 different competitions. Has your experience playing with so many different schools prepped you for being consistent? T The consistency comes from the work I put in this summer with my trainer Deric Hill and pdl4 sports academy. We knew what this season would consist of so we properly prepared for this year, as far as my conditioning, strength, and the weaknesses that I lacked in my game a last year. I take every experience that I’ve had with different clubs and always use it to help my development for the next year.
You have showed your whole career that you are a point guard that can score and dish out many assists. Has your role pretty much always been the same wherever you played in Europe?
That’s always who I’ve been since I started playing the game. The coaches I’ve played for throughout my time hooping always told me the best PG’s are the ones who can score but also control the team and get the other players going. That’s just who I am as a player anywhere I’ve been or anywhere I’m going I’ll continue to be the same player.
What has it been like playing with Ross Williams? Were you like a mentor for him last season in his rookie season?
It’s been great, man Ross is a special person someone I consider my brother. Playing with him has made my job a lot easier having someone that can shoot the ball at a high clip like he does. The person that he is, is far more special than the things that he does on the court a great individual. I wouldn’t say a mentor but I was always a listening ear whenever he needed any advice or help with something as a guard, the kid is special the sky is the limit for him!
How big is your chip on your shoulder? You have won chips and always put up great stats, but never played in a first division like Germany, France or Italy. How big is your drive to get there? No matter where I am the chip on my shoulder is always big, I always want to prove that I’m the best on the court. As far as playing in the first division in those countries my time will come for sure and I’ll continue to thrive as I have. My drive to get there is big for sure but I never measure where I’m at, I take advantage of any situation I’m in and do my best.
You have always had consistent stats. What has been your secret to being able to adjust to every league you have played in?
First in foremost, my faith in God. Trusting in his plan for my journey and trusting in the work that I have put in to stay consistent. Faith and hard work is my secret.
You played the 22-23 season with KK Rabotnicki AD Skopje (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 10.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 4.9apg, Steals-1 (2.4spg), FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 82.7%. What kind of an experience was this season and what was missing to beating MZT Skopje in the palyoffs?
Playing for Rabotnicki was a great experience for me, I learned a lot about myself as a person/player. It was a lot of ups and downs that season as far as my role, I went from starting to coming off the bench some of the season definitely a different adjust but I enjoyed it. MZT Skopje was a tough opponent with a lot of depth on the roster which we didn’t have at the time in Rabotnicki but we never gave up and we fought to the end.
You split the 21-22 season with Sharks Antibes (France-ProB)averaging 10.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.0apg, in Nov.’21 moved to CS Dinamo Bucuresti (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 5.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 19.2%, 3FGP: 35.3%, FT: 75.0%: and in Jan.’22 signed at Lions de Geneve (Switzerland-SBL) averaging 10.9ppg, 6.1rpg, 4.6apg, Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT-9 (91.5%). How tough was this season? Did it feel like living out of a suitcase? The 21-22 season was definitely tough having to move around so much which I hadn’t done before and it was early in my career so I didn’t know a lot. It was tough going from team to team to team, but it made me mentally stronger than I once was and I felt as if I needed that experience. It taught me to never get too comfortable. It didn’t feel like living out of a suitcase, I got to experience different countries, places, see things I’ve never seen before that was the best part about the experience.
What do you remember from the playoff series against Fribourg? Did you ever feel like they had you on their radar for the future?
I remember we lost the series, I was hot. I really didn’t want to lose that series but Fribourg was the better team and they wanted more than we did. I didn’t know that Fribourg had me there radar for the future honestly but once coach Petit came I felt as if I would be a good fit for Fribourg and it just so happens we both were thinking the same thing.
You played the 20-21 season with SAM Basket Massagno (Switzerland-SBL) averaging 15.7ppg, 5.3rpg, Assists-2 (6.7apg), Steals-3 (2.1spg), FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 81.5%. Statwise this was one of your best seasons as a pro. How tough was the season in the hey day of Covid? You must of only focused on basketball?
That season was really tough as well, having to take Covid tests almost every week, to sometimes having to be in lockdown not touching a basketball for a week or longer. Basketball is always my focus Covid or not but Covid did allow me to put more focus into my craft because that’s all I could do at the time.
You played Fribourg in a playoff series. In the last game of the season you lost 94-93 scoring 25 points. How tough was that loss? It was tough, we were so close to winning that game and I wasn’t ready to go home just yet. I wanted to continue to play basketball and make a run for the SBL League Trophy.
You played your rookie season with BK 04 AC LB Spisska Nova Ves (Slovakia-SBL) averaging 17.0ppg, 6.5rpg, 6.5apg, 2.1spg, 2FGP: 53.3%, 3FGP: 38.0%, FT: 76.2%, in Feb.’19 moved to BC Delta (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 12.3ppg, 6.3rpg, 4.7apg, Steals-3 (2.5spg), FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 68.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
I was actually training at Amazon just about to start working until I got a call to go overseas and a coach that I played for in the eurobasket camp called me with a job opening. I walked out of training immediately and went to pack my bags. I was excited that I got a chance my dreams being a professional basketball player.
How refreshing was this season finding some adversary in Slovakia and then winning your first chip in Georgia?
It was great to win a chip my first year as a rookie and to be a piece in that puzzle was special for me because I didn’t know what to expect haven’t come there later in the season.
How vital was having another rookie with Malcolm Drumright in Georgia? How intense were the day to day battles in practice in that time? It was great to have a player like Malcolm on the team as rookie, we both were young guys looking to make a name for ourselves in Europe. It was good to have that type of player around you, someone humble & motivated it helped me a lot. The battles in practice were very intense most time we were on different teams just so we could compete, competition was very important for us at that time.
You played 2 seasons with Tallahassee Community College (JUCO) averaging 5.2ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 38.1%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 75.0% and 7.9ppg, 4.3rpg, 5.4apg, FGP: 38.1%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 66.1%. Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have stated that it was a real grind, but an experience that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?
JUCO was definitely a grind for sure but I had some a great group of freshmen that I enterd with with who made it feel like home away from home. We grinded ogether & we were always with each other. I wouldn’t trade my JUCO experience for anything in the world, I had a tough coach in coach Barnes, who taught me a lot of discipline and basic things about the game.
You then played at Florida International University (NCAA)averaging 4.3ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.5apg and 12,.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 79.8%. You made a big jump as a senior. How did your game grow that last season? The jump from the Junior to senior was simple, I stayed in the gym all summer worked on my craft my body and I got more opportunities to have the ball in my hands to be able to showcase my abilities.
You had many great games in the NCAA like 37 points against UAB. What was your fondest moment in the NCAA?
Yes, that was the most pleasure I had playing college basketball. I was just so free and a lot of fun, most importantly we won the game because we didn’t win a lot of games that season.
How did head coach Anthony Evans groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
Not only Coach Evans but the entire coaching staff prepared me for what was to come in being a professional, being on time, being professional, work hard and being disciplined. I really had a great group of coaches at FIU I wouldn’t trade the experience or the coaches for anything, I’m forever grateful for the things they did for me.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Donte McGill? Me and Donte competed all summer/season, we had many battles but he won more than I did.
Who is the toughest player that you faced that went to the NBA? Brandon Austin in JUCO, he was different for sure.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Mark Kelly Myles Greene Dirk Williams Elmo Stephen Ross Williams
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? Kobe Bryant Lebron James Michael Jordan Dwayne Wade Kyrie Irving
Who is your GOAT?
Kobe Bryant. The mindset that Kobe had playing the game is something outta this world. He was a great example of resilience, hard work, dedication. Forever 8/24
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming ToAmerica? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I haven’t seen it yet, I’ve been more into watching more tv series.
Kevin Hunt Jr. (190-G-1997, college: Denver, agency: Helping Ballers) is a 26 year old 190cm guard from Little Rock, Arkansas playing his second professional season and first with Gartenzaun24 Baskets Paderborn (Germany-ProB). He played his rookie season with the Little Rock Lightning (TBL) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 38.7%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 78.6% and then went overseas playing with BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers (Austria-BSL) averaging 16.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 3.8apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 50.5%, 3FGP: 26.7%, FT: 57.1%, and later that month moved to Tundja Yambol (Bulgaria-NBL) averaging 12.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.2apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 76.9%. He began his basketball career at Bryant High School and then played at 4 schools. He began at College of Central Florida (JUCO) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.7rpg, 4.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 24.2%, FT: 73.5%. He then played a season at McNeese State University (NCAA) averaging 6.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 67.4% He then played at Morehead State University (NCAA) averaging 6.9ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 77.8%. He finished his NCAA career at Denver University (NCAA) averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 78.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the brutal 66-63 loss to the TSK 49ers.
Paderborn suffered a tough 66-63 loss to the TSK 49ers. How tough was this loss to digest? You won the first meeting 81-57.
It’s always humbling whenever you lose a game. Going into the game after a huge victory the week before, you never want to underestimate an opponent but I feel that’s what we did as a unit. Only thing to do is learn from our mistakes and prepare for the upcoming game
How were the TSK 49ers different as a team now then back at the start of the season?
They were locked in from jump to finish. We started off slow, got down double digits and were fighting our way back for majority of the game. They had more will and fight than us. What had been the focus coming in? You had forced top point guard Andriy Kozhemiakin to 9 turnovers, but last weekend to only 2 turnovers. Our focus was to control the rebounds and push the tempo, something we didn’t necessarily do at the level that we had practiced this entire week. Andriy didn’t have a good game the first match so he was maybe more motivated and focused to perform at a high level.
The TSK 49ers had the comfortable 38-29 lead at the break. Defensively Paderborn was over what they usually give up per game. What was giving the team the most problems defensively?
Our lack of focus was our biggest problem in my opinion. The small details like communication in pick and roll defense, defensive rebounding, those things hurt us throughout the game. We gave up 2-3 offensive boards from free-throws, those are the things that cost us down the stretch.
Kozhemiakin was playing great with scoring and rebounding in the game. Was he a different player than in the first game or was it more about the Paderborn mistakes? Every player was different. As the season progress, teams become more seasoned and figure out their identity, players figure out their roles, we knew it would be a dog fight coming in
In the third quarter Paderborn cleaned up their defense allowing only 9 points. What adjustments did the team make defensively? Just to go out and compete. X’s and O’s can only take you so far in games like these, you have to go out and compete and let everything else fall into place. Our starting 5 at half did a great job of locking and getting us back into a single digit deficit.
In the fourth quarter Paderborn had the 8 point lead early after you went on a 6-0 run and you scored 2 buckets. Did you feel the need to get aggressive? I felt that I had missed some easy lay ups early in the game that I normally make. So I knew that eventually I would make them if I focused in a little bit more. I wanted to do whatever I needed to do in order for the team to win.
They then kept chipping at your lead and Paderborn was held scoreless for many minutes. Did the team get too comfortable? We did let our foot off the peddle for a minute. In my experience from being on championship teams, that’s when you let defense win you games. The smaller things matter, limiting them to one shot, controlling our turnovers, running out the clock. We haven’t been in a close game like that in so long and It showed. Moving forward, we see what we need to do to win close games.
At the end Kozhemiakin hit a big three and then Dominik Von Waaden had a last shot but missed. Take me through the last 2 possessions?
Joaquin hit two major free throws down the stretch which tied it. We knew they’d milk the clock and keep the ball in their hot hand. In games where a team hits a go ahead shot, you want to blame that last shot for the reason you lost when in reality it was our gameplay throughout the game. We made a lot mistakes which lead to us being in that predicament.
How tough is it in general as a player to accept a loss when you defended well as a team?
You have to give credit where credit is due. They came out and competed from tip to finish. We did a lot of things well but not well enough to the point we come out on top as victors. It’s frustrating, of course, but tip your hats off to them and move on. We have a long week of practice and learning from our mistakes.
On what areas of the game will Paderborn have to work on most this week during practice? After watching the game, I say just focusing on the areas we’re not particularly great at like free throws, making the easy plays, shooting more open shots, and defending. I say that vaguely but there is a lot of detail that goes into those categories which is what will improve us as a whole moving forward.
How much fun is it in general to play with Spanish point guard Jose Carrasco? How much easier does he make your job?
It’s really fun because every single day, I mean EVERY single day, he comes in with great energy! A true professional and veteran player. He wants everyone around him to be better as a player and person. He sees things as a PG that I don’t see and understands the game at a distinct level many players do not. He wants to find the open players and does a great job dishing the ball out and running our offense along with defending at an elite level.
You had a solid game with 11 points, 5 rebounds, 1 steal and 2 blocks. You made an impact on defense. How content were you with your game?
I wasn’t content at all and felt I could’ve done more. I shot poorly from the field, took some questionable shots early in the game, and I was challenged at half time to figure out what was best for the team. I tried to make adjustments while I was out there but unfortunately, it wasn’t enough
Your 2 point game is working well, but your three isn´t falling at all. How tough is it being in a season three point shooting slump?
It’s been tough because I know for a fact I’m very capable. My teammates encourage me all the time to trust in my shot and to not overthink the misses. I’ve sought advice from players like Archie Goodwin, former NBA player, whose playing in China right now. He gave me advice that I take with me to work every day. All it takes is for me is to have one good shooting display from 3, and it will improve tremendously, I wholeheartedly believe that so I won’t stress it.
Paderborn next plays against the Berlin Braves. You lost the first game on the road 76-71. How big is the revenge factor?
It’s important in two ways. One, we just lost a winnable game last game so I’m hungry to get back in the W column. Two, we’re playing at home which we obviously thrive at. It’s not more so the team we play this game but more so how do we respond after letting a game like the 49ers slip through our fingers.
Paderborn had way too many turnovers. Badu Buck left the team. What will be key to getting the win? First and foremost is to go out and compete at a completely high level. Focus from start to finish and execute the gameplan. Those are the things that will put us in a good place to win the game. Everything else will follow
Who will win the Superbowl? Kansas City or Philadelphia Eagles? The Chiefs for sure! My pastor and his family are KC Chiefs fans and since I’ve been hanging around them a lot, I’ve noticed myself rooting for all KC Missouri teams, Patrick Brady, I mean Patrick Mahomes is one of a kind, I know that he’ll pull off the 3 peat
One of the big showdowns for any club in German football or basketball or even other sports is playing FC Bayern Munich. It´s no different at the youth U-19 level. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners met Munich for the first time this season, but for one Skyliner, he hadn´t already played against many today, but had been teammates with many only a week ago. Recently universal genius Ivan Crnjac had the big honor to suit up with FC Bayern Munich during the 2025 Adidas Next Generation tournament. But on this time Crnjac was an opponent again. Frankfurt came in sporting a 8-1 record while FC Bayern Munich came in with a 5-2 record. Despite Munich´s record, they have an unbelievable strong and deep roster that will challenge all team´s the rest of the way and possibly continuing in the top 4 in May. Frankfurt isn´t too shabby either and last weekend won on the road in Ludwigsburg without their big 3 of Crnjac, Edoka and Omog. On a mild Sunday afternoon FC Bayern Munich rolled into the BCM gym and showed a strong and consistent game for 40 minutes forcing Frankfurt to play catch up basketball all afternoon long. Frankfurt was unable to get over the hump as they got a bit fatigued in the fourth quarter. FC Bayern Munich was led by the lethal guard duo of Dominik Dolic (190-SG-2006) and Ivan Volf who combined for 29 points and added big shots in the fourth quarter for the victory. ”In the end we found a way to fight through it. We gave up too many easy baskets 1-1 in the first half. We changed our game plan in the second half. We switched a lot to close the zone. We got steals and got out on transition”, stressed FC Bayern Munich guard Dominic Dollic. The Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners fought hard, but just couldn´t get over the hump. The guard duo of Dolic and Volf were simiply too much for them, “I felt like this game was at eye level of the 2 top teams in the division. They both know each other and have played together for years and know exactly what their doing. I think we were a bit tired in the fourth quarter. When Ivan Crnjac went down, everyone was shocked. Munich got too many easy rebounds and offensive rebounds. I think the load was too much on the shoulders of Edoka and Crnjac”, stressed Skyliners Juniors head coach Sepehr Tarrah.
Jamie Edoka at the FT line
In the first quarter FC Bayern Munich found to their game rapidly and took the commanding league and Frankfurt had to already get used to playing catch up basketball early. FC Bayern Munich led quickly 12-4 and showcased beautiful inside out basketball and surprisingly only 2 points were scored by the duo of Dolic and Volf as Dolic made a nifty lefthanded lay in. Desmond Yiamu scored 5 points including a trey and Greek guard Nikolas Sermpezis who averaged 20,0ppg at the recent ADNE also added 5 points as he also dropped a three pointer. Munich was playing aggressive on ball defense and also getting quickly out on transition while Frankfurt hadn´t found a rhythm. Frankfurt then finally found their rhythm as the big 3 of Crnjac, Edoka and Omog scored, but Frankfurt still trailed 20-13. Frankfurt couldn´t get consistent stops as their guard play executed and they also had problems with 213cm big man Killian Dueck who was a mismatch everytime he touched the ball. He also scored twice and was pulling down offensive rebounds at ease. Frankfurt weren´t able to spread the offensive love around as much as FC Bayern Munich as they only had Edoka who added 9 points and Crnjac 4 points. Edoka is about as unstoppable as you can get at the NBBL level. Every drive seemingly is either a lay in or he draws a foul. Down the stretch of the first quarter Jamie Edoka tested his 6,7% three point shooting and dropped one and also made free throws. Serbian Andrijia Sussic and Dolic added lay ins with their lethal speed as FC Bayern Munich led 25-18 after 10 minutes. “Frankfurt didn´t play particular good defense, They had little defensive intensity and had problems with pick and roll, close outs and rotations. Edoka did a good job getting to the rim”, stated former Skyliner Junior Drago Crnjac. FC Bayern Munich shot 53% from the field and 50% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 3 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 47% from the field and 50% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 5 turnovers.
Dominik Dolic with the drive
In the second quarter Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners fought back, but were unable to get the lead as they trailed by 1 point at half-time. Frankfurt went on a 8-3 run taking advantage of 2 Munich turnovers to cut the guests lead to 30-28. The universal genius Ivan Crnjac added 2 three pointers while big man Lukas Brendal made a lay in. Frankfurt upped their defensive intensity and were more aggressive on the glass while Munich had up and down phases in their game. Ivan Crnjac got going in the run showing lethal production as usual. “It was strange that Ivan had so much freedom. There wasn´t really anyone assigned to him. But I did notice that Dolic was put on him at the end of the second quarter”, commented Dragon Crnjac. Whenever Frankfurt threatened, Munich always had an answer. It was either the great shooing guards or Killian Dueck. This time it was Dueck scoring back to back buckets including an offensive rebound and put back where Frankfurt trailed 38-34. Frankfurt put on the pressure in the last minutes closing out the quarter with an efficient 10-5 run to trail 39-38 at the break. In the Frankfurt run, it was 17 year old Jamie Edoka who took charge as he was a one man wrecking crew scoring 8 points. He continued to attack the paint area and executed. He always found ways to score or either draw fouls. Maximillain Petters also made a lay in as Crnjac made a beautiful touch pass. Munich got some good support from the bench from Isayah Marcin who made a lay in. Frankfurt´s defense was a lot stronger in the last minutes as Crnjac and Peters both made huge blocks. “You see really how good both of them work together. Ivan told me once that Peters is his best friend on the court. They have a really good connection on the court. Both are big wings that like to shoot, but also attack the close out”, stated Drago Crnjac. FC Bayern Munich shot 38% from the field and 28% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 7 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 45% from the field and from the three point line and had 21 rebounds and 12 turnovers. “Even Frankfurt had problems with the Munich press, I think they were strong in the half court and moved the ball well”, stated Drago Crnjac.
Ivan Crnjac to the rim
In the third quarter FC Bayern Munich had their best scoring quarter as they erupted for 27 points and led by 8 points after 3 quarters. The lethal guard duo did their magic nailing back to back three´s to extend Munich´s lead to 45-38. Both love to have the ball in their hands and harmonize so well together. They have been playing together for many years and that shows on the court. “I know him since the U-12 and we have been playing together since the U-14. We have great chemistry because we are together 24/7. We know how to bring each other into rhythm”, explained Dominik Dolic. Both teams would have their mini runs with FC Bayern Munich keeping their head ahead. Omog scored 4 points in a row, but Munich punched back with a 4-0 run and Yiamu and Susic scored on drives and Frankfurt trailed 49-42. FC Bayern Munich had a good groove while that team play by Frankfurt had disappeared as too much 1-1 play was creeping out of the wood work. Frankfurt never gave up and had a positive phase going on a 12-6 run to trail only 55-54. In the run, Frankfurt continued to use their brilliant individual qualities as Ivan Crnjac made an offensive rebound and put back and also connected on another trey. Edoka also supplied another lay in while young German Ehiozogie Idemudia supplied great support from the bench hitting a three pointer. But as usual this was as close as Frankfurt would get as Munich would always slap back with a clutch three pointer by the guard duo of Dolic and Volf. This time it was Ivan Volf for the 58-54 advantage. This was the start of a 12-6 run for FC Bayern Munich as they got more support from Caspar Vossenberg with 4 points and Killian Dueck continued to be super efficient in the paint area with a lay in Frankfurt got to the free throw line, but missed way too many free throws and trailed 66-58 after 30 minutes. “We were good on the pick and roll defense and got some steals. We work on this twice a day with the pick and roll and zig zag. We want to be the best defense in Germany”, warned Dominik Dolic. “We had problems on defense. They got too many easy baskets. We couldn´t stop their transition. We dribbled the ball too much and had too little ball movement”, added Jamie Edoka. FC Bayern Munich shot 40% from the field and 36% from the parking lot and had 30 rebounds and 8 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt shot 44% from the field and 44% from the parking lot and they had 31 rebounds and 16 turnovers.
Andrijia Susic at the FT line
In the fourth quarter FC Bayern Munich closed out the game not losing their consistency. Ivan Crnjac had hurt his foot at the end of the third quarter and returned in the fourth quarter, but was no factor. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners got on the score board first in the fourth quarter as Lukas Brendal made a lay in as he was very efficient from the field going 7/8 but had his problems from the free throw line going 1/7. Frankfurt trailed 66-60, but this was as close as they would get in the game. Both teams executed well and went on mini runs as Dueck made a lay and Dolic free throws and Omog made an acrobatic lay in and lock down defender Rephael Edward also madce a lay getting the nice pass from Crnjac as Frankfurt was down 6 again. FC Bayern Munich was able to increase it´s lead again into double figures as Dolic made a trey and lay in a nd Dueck a lay in as Frankfurt trailed 78-66. In this phase Frankfurt missed free throws again as all in all they went 13/25 form the free throw line. Th game was as good as decided as the dynamic duo of Volf and Dolic added consecutive three´s for good measure as Munich led 84-70. Brendel closed out the game with back to back lay in´s as he had his best game in the NBBL with 15 points. “Crnjac gave us big problems in the first 3 quarters. I think him hurting himself hurt them a bit. I think both teams were tired. Many of us had played Pro B the night before. We got key rebounds and were calm on offense. We were also lucky at times making our three´s”, said Dominik Dolic. “We were a bit tired. Some of us also had played Regionalliga the night before. Their bigs hurt us. We were undersized and didn´t box out well. Lukas Brendel played very well despite going against mis matches the whole game”, commented Jamie Edoka. FC Bayern Munich was led by Dominik Dolic with 18 points. Killian Dueck added 15 points and Ivan Volf added 11 points as did Andrijia Susic while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners was led by Jamie Edoka with 20 points. Ivan Crnjac added 16 points while Lukas Brendel chipped in with 15 points. FC Bayern Munich shot 41% from the field and 38% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 13 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 43% from the field and 33% from outside and had 41 rebounds and 21 turnovers.
Javontae Hopkins (183-PG-2001, college: PVAMU) is a 23 year old 183 cm point guard that was born in Norfolk, Virginia and grew up in Texas playing his rookie season with the Lugano Tigers (Switzerland-SBL). He began his basketball career at Fort Bend Travis High School and also played AAU basketball at T.T Elite. He then played 106 games at Tarleton State University (NCAA) from 2019-2023. He then played 1 more season at Prairie View A&M University (NCAA) averaging 14.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 62.2%
Thanks Javontae for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first pro season overseas. You came from Virginia to Switzerland. You couldn´t be living in a more beautiful place in Lugano. What do you like most about the country?
What I like most about Switzerland are the people. The people here are so welcoming and are genuinely nice people. They’re very polite and majority of them actually speak great English.
What has it been like playing for the Lugano Tigers. Do you feel that rich tradition within the organization?
I am truly blessed to be able to play for an organization like Lugano Tigers! We aren´t having the best season so far due to some tough losses in our first 12 games, but we fight and play hard every game. The coaches and staff here are greate and want nothing but the best for us players. I am very grateful for the opportunity given to me to play here.
The club is struggling so far. What have been the main reasons for the losing? The defense has given up too many points? Yes we are struggling a bit but like I said we play hard and fight till the end of each game. We have a very young team with 8 of our 12 players under 20 years old and me being a rookie. I would say we are just unexperienced, but that doesn’t stop us from competing.
You are leading the league in scoring and have needed no adjustment time. What has been your secret to being able to adjust so well?
Playing fearless and confident is the big secret. I believe that has helped me adjust so well this season. Also my teammates and coaches believing in me plays a huge part in it.
How vital has teammate Antonio Ballard been? Has he been like a mentor for you? Yes I would say Tone has been a mentor for me because he has the most experience playing overseas basketball on our team if not in the whole entire league. His knowledge and leadership has benefited me in numerous ways. I learn something new from him every day.
Let´s talk about your game? You’re a 183cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would it be?
I watch a lot of Allen Iverson and Brandon Jennings! I try to compare my game to them guys because of how fast, athletic, smart, and fearless they played. Both of them aren’t the tallest but were always the most outstanding on the court. Allen Iverson I’ve been watching since I was in elementary school because he is from around the same area I grew up in and I wanted to be just like him. Brandon Jennings is probably one of the most skilled and craftiest left handed players I’ve ever seen so I like to take pieces out of his game and put them into mine since I´m also left handed.
You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet. What is your biggest strength on the court? My biggest strength on the court is my speed and athleticism. I have yet to play against or with someone as fast and quick as me. The athleticism I have at just 183cm allows me to play and compete with guys that are taller.
Your shooting very well from outside. What do you still have to make to make the next step as a shooter?
This past summer I worked on my 3pt shooting so much and it is still not where I want it to be. But I can say the hard work has helped because I’m shooting the best I ever have in my entire career at the moment. I want to be shooting around 40% by the end of the season as a point guard.
What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?
I have always been a great pesty defender. In high school I was labeled as both a great defender and scorer then once I went to Tarleton I had a defensive roll to play if I wanted to be on the court so scoring was out of the picture for a long time until I transferred to PVAMU my last year of college where I still had to play great defense to be on the court but my coach also believed in my offensive game. So, I have always had the defensive mindset and always will.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? I am always working on my 3pt shot! I believe developing a great consistent 3pt shot will take my game to the next level.
You played at Tarleton State University (NCAA2) from 2019-2023. What kind of an experience was this. You never averaged more than 6,7ppg in a season. What was your role there?
My first year at Tarleton as a freshman my role was to simply come in and play smart and hard as a back up point guard. Once I got a new coach sophmore year, my role was strictly to guard and be a pest on ball. My coach told me that was the ONLY way I would ever be on the court. So scoring was out of the picture for 4 years.
You had many solid games at Tarleton State University (NCAA2) like 23 points against Northeastern State. What was your fondest moment there on the court? Probably getting 2 consecutive fast break dunks. It was very cool to be able to do that as a freshman.
You then finished at Prairie View A&M University (NCAA) averaging 14.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 62.2%. You had your break through season in the NCAA. How did your game grow in your senior year? I would say me gaining my confidence back after having 4 terrible seasons at Tarleton helped my game grow my senior year. With also coach Smith believing in me.
How did head coach Byron Smith groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Coach Smith prepared and put me in the best possible position to become a professional player by believing in me and not giving up on what he saw in me. Forcing me to get in the gym to put up shots, film session on what I need to fix to become a better player, playing against me in shooting drills to better my jump shot. All these things he did helped me prepare for the professional career I have now.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Kevin McGaskey? I actually never played against Kevin 1-1. I’d say to a game of 11, I win 11-9.
Who is the toughest player that you faced that went to the NBA? Tyrese Maxey! By far the toughest player I have ever faced.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Freddy Hicks (Tarleton), Orlando Horton (PVAMU), Isaiah Range (Tarleton), Joshua Hawley (Tarleton), Shamir Bouges (Tarleton). These are my top 5 favorite teammates. My 5 best teammates as players are Freddy Hicks (Tarleton), Montre Gipson (Tarleton), Shamir Bouges (Tarleton), Isaiah Range (Tarleton), Joshua Hawley (Tarleton).
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? Kobe Byrant, Lebron James, Allen Iverson, James Harden I did my homework.
Your GOAT is Kobe. That is a great choice. Why is he your GOAT?
Yes Kobe is my GOAT. Mainly because of the mentality he had as a player. It was unique, and you rarely see guys in the NBA with that mentality these days.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? I’ve never seen either. I guess now that’s something I have to watch. Looking forward to it.
Osun Osunniyi (208-F/C-1998, college: Iowa St.) is a 25 year old 208cm big man from New Jersey that is playing his second professional season and first in Germany with the MLP Academics Heidelberg currently averaging 4,8ppg, 5,0rpg, 1,0apg and 1,1spg. Last season he played his rookie season with Hubo Limburg United (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) playing 22 BNXT League games averaging 9.8ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, 1.8bpg, 2FGP: 58.0%, FT: 58.6%. He began his basketball career with Mainland Regional and then played at Putnam Science Prep Academy. He then played 4 seasons and 111 NCAA games at St Bonaventure an din his last season averaged 11.3ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.5apg, 2.9bpg, FGP: 61.4%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 64.1%. He then played one more season at Iowa State University (NCAA) playing 33 games averaging 8.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 60.1%, 3PT: 23.1%, FT: 67.2%. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.
Thanks Osun for talking to germanhoops.com. Before we get into basketball, please tell me how you got this unique name? In Nigeria it is a state in the country. My mother and father had the names picked out. I don’t fully remember how
Congrats on signing in Germany with the MLP Academics Heidelberg. Did you ex teammate Courtney Stockard at St Bonaventure (NCAA) give you tips about the MLP Academics since he once played there?
I did send Courtney a text when I realized he signed with MLP Academics. He told me that it was a great area and that he enjoyed his time there and everyone is friendly and would take care of me.
What was your main motivation for signing with the MLP Academics? What was the deciding thing that let you sign on the dotted line? My main motivation was just trying to find an organization that was in a great league and that the coaching staff would help me continue to build my game and become a better player.
Let ´s talk about your game. You’re a 208cm center. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would bets fit the description? I can’t really pick a certain NBA player. I do pride myself as being a defensive anchor that loves to be the last line of defense and protect the rim at a high level. But I also love passing the ball. I think that is something that I have worked very hard on and it’s a huge part of my game.
You’re a player that consistently has scored, rebounded and blocked shots at the NCAA and pro level. Would you call yourself a high quality 2-way player? I would call myself somewhat of a 2 -way player. Defense has always been something that I have been great at. It’s something that has gotten me very far in my basketball career and something I pride myself on. Just being a tough defensive player.
You averaged 2,4apg in the NCAA. How well defined would you classify your playmaking at the moment for a big man?
Absolutely. I love passing the ball and getting my teammates points and getting them opportunities to score. I’ve always been able to pass and it’s something that I will continue to do and continue to work on.
You averaged more than 2,5 blocks per game in the NCAA per season and 1,8 in Belgium as a rookie. What is your secret to being an impactful shot blocker? What do you rely on most when swatting away balls? I don’t really have a secret to it. I’ve just always had the timing and ability to do it and it’s honestly my favorite thing about playing basketball.
Your already an incredible shot blocker, but where do you see your shot blocking art at the moment? Would a goal like becoming the best in Europe a realistic goal for you?
I think my shot blocking is the best part of my game just my timing and ability to not only block shots but alter shots and protect the rim. Personal accolades and awards are things that I don’t put too much time thinking about or worrying about. If blocking shots is helping my team win games and bringing a championship to the team then I’m going to work my very best to do that so we can win.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? Everything. I don’t want to just be complacent with my game. Obviously my defense is ahead of my offense, but working to be able to guard every position on the court is something I work hard to be able to do, but If I had to pick one thing specifically it would be my offense. Just being more comfortable on the perimeter and being able to knockdown perimeter shots.
You played your rookie season with Hubo Limburg United (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 9,8ppg, 5,7rpg and 1,8bs. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home? Just getting that phone call from coach Ray Westphalen and having the conversation with him about the team and where he saw me being a part of his system and what I could do playing in the BNXT.
You had the incredible experience to be teammates with 38 year old ultra veteran Cliff Hammonds. How vital was he for a guy like you coming out of school? What was the most important thing that you could soak up from him?
Cliff was everything. Just being able to understand and learn different things from a guy who’s been all over Europe and just listening whenever he spoke. I think the most important thing I learned from him was taking care of my body everyday. Doesn’t matter If it was an off day just always do something to keep your body feeling good. Another thing was just watching how he played the game. For being 38 years old, I watched Cliff lock down some young guards and put his body on the line for the team every single game.
You won the 2024 cup with Limburg. What was most special in this run and how you achieved it with your teammates especially Robert Jones from Iowa State? Winning the cup was huge. It was a great experience. Playing in that environment in front of the Limburg fans and being able to bring the Belgium Cup to Limburg was amazing. The fans made that experience one I’ll never forget.
You played 2 NBA Summer League games with the Washington Wizards in 2023. You had an allround strong game against the Bulls. What will you remember being the coolest moment that you had during your stay? The coolest moment was just being out there with NBA guys and just experiencing what it was like to be and NBA player. I appreciate the Wizards organization for the opportunity and allowing me to represent them.
What kind of feedback did you get from the Wizards coaching staff? They told me to just continue to work on my game. Just told me how tough it is to actually be in the NBA.
You played at St Bonaventure (NCAA) from 2018-2022 winning the Atlantic 10 title in 2021 and reaching the NIT Final 4 as a senior. What was your fondest moment in those 4 years? I had a lot of memories St Bonaventure is my 2nd home and I loved every moment I was there playing in the Reilly Center. Winning the Atlantic 10 tournament was amazing. Winning the Charleston Classic was also a great time. I have so many great memories playing there it’s hard to choose just one singular moment that was my favorite.
How key was head coach Mark Schmidt for you? What more than freedom did he give you from the get go that helped you develop further? Mark Schmidt is a basketball guru. He is always thinking of different plays and things that can be done to win games. He is always thinking basketball and it’s what makes him a great coach. He gave me a lot of freedom, especially using my passing ability and putting me at the top of the key where I was able to pass and get my teammates involved. I loved playing in his system at St Bonaventure.
You had 7 blocks in your second NCAA game against Jackson State (NCAA). How vital was that performance for you? Did that give you the feeling yes I can play very well in the NCAA? At the time I was just trying to do whatever it took to help my team win. My freshman year I was just trying to learn and play my role whenever I got in the game. Blocking shots is something I’ve been doing since I started playing basketball. That game definitely game me the confidence that I could be a very good shot blocker.
You became the all-time shot blocker at St Bonaventure and had so many great games including many 7 block games and 18 blocks in a 3 game span. What was your favorite game there? I think honestly my favorite block out of all the blocks I had at St Bonaventure would definitely be either the record breaking block or the block that sealed the game for us on the road against Virginia. Just blocking that shot as the time expired and being able to wave bye to all the Virginia fans felt really good.
You followed Jaren Holmes to Iowa State (NCAA) for one more season averaging 8.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 60.1%, 3PT: 23.1%, FT: 67.2%, How did head coach TJ Otzelberger give you that added push and help groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
Coach TJ was amazing and being able to play under him for 1 year helped my basketball career, because he taught me how to push myself to exhaustion every time I played, because that’s when I played to my fullest potential. He also helped me understand that becoming a professional would mean I would have to be able to play a role and understand my role and do it to the best of my ability and that would help me have a successful professional career. I appreciate everything Coach TJ taught me.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Robert Jones?
Rob and I would go back and forth. Some days he would get the best of me and the other days I’d get him. But it only made us get better every single day
Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Probably Cam Thomas. I played him my junior year when we made the NCAA tournament and played LSU.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Kyle Lofton, Jaren Holmes, Dom Welch, Cornelius Brozell, Jalen Adaway
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? Michael Jordan, Shaq, Kobe Bryant, Steph Curry, Magic Johnson
Who is your personal GOAT? Michael Jordan
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn ´t They have left it alone?
No I haven’t seen it. I did see the original and I’ve heard from my friends that they shouldn’t have made a sequel. Sometimes it’s better to just let the originals live on forever.
One of the basketball highlights in the youth sector every year is the Euroleague Basketball Next Generation tournament that is held every year in January. It is contested between the best basketball clubs in Europe in the under 18 age group. The first ANGE was held in 2003 and in the last 5 years Real Madrid has dominated the tournament winning 4 out of 5 tournaments. Over the years ANGT has seen big upcoming talents that became big time players like Luka Donic, Dario Saric and Dejan Musli while the last 2 MVP´s were Jan Vide and Hugo Gonzalez. This years tournament saw an array of great players again including German Ivan Crnjac who plays for the Frankfurt Skyliners. He had the special honor to suit up with FC Bayern Munich. He was one of the older kids on the team as there were many very talented players from the years 2008-2009 In the end, FC Bayern Munich couldn´t win the title, but reached a very satisfying 5th place and gained added valuable experience playing against the best young players in Europe. Ivan Crnjac was in Munich for a week training with FC Bayern Munich and then played 4 games last weekend. It was an exciting time, but also stressful at times. “It was ok. The days were slow and fast depending on how much training we had. The first day was long. We had 2 games and we had to get up at 6.15 AM”, stressed Ivan Crnjac (203-F-2007)
Usually the teams only have the players from that team, but every once in a while, teams will add talented guys from other teams so they will get a chance to compete since their normal team wasn´t invited. In the case of Ivan Crnjac, it was strange in a way to be training with FC Bayern Munich, but in a way also familiar. “It was strange having other teammates, but I mean I knew many of the guys already. It was strange practicing in a different training facility, but I got used to it”, stated Ivan Crnjac So how did a day look for him leading up to the weekend where he would play 4 games? “It wasn´t always that exciting. I woke up at 9.00Am and had breakfast. I usually relaxed then or went for a walk. In the afternoon we had practice starting with work in the weight room. Then I went back to the hotel and slept. There were no wild times. The Munich players all had school”, said Ivan Crnjac Was the team able to generate chemistry in such a short period of time? “I felt we did do that. But you did notice that the team was young and inexperienced. You saw it at times in games. An older point guard would react differently”, commented Ivan Crnjac Was he able to see any of the easyCredit BBL players like rising young star Ivan Khartchenkov who is getting good minutes with the BBL team? Is a guy like Khartcehnkov a role model for him? “I watched a BBL practice and saw all the players. I also saw Gordie Herbert walking around. I saw Ivan but didn´t talk to him. I wouldn´t necessarily say he is a role model for me, but he is definitely a player where I would strive to have a career like him”, expressed Ivan Crnjac
FC Bayern Munich lost the first game to Cedivita 98-78 as Ivan Crnjac had 10 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists. “That was a tough first loss. It was early in the morning and we didn´t play well as a team. They hit their shots well. It was a weak game and not the type of game that you want to start a tournament with”, said Ivan Crnjac FC Bayern Munich finally got on the winning track beating Aris 74-54. Ivan Crnjac produced 9 points, 4 rebounds and 1 assist. “This was our second game of the day and it was at night. We were mad after losing the first game. We put more emotion into the game. We were able to play our game. We defended harder and our offense was better”, added Ivan Crnjac They then fell to 1-2 as they lost to Valencia 103-82. “You wouldn´t think so from the result, but it was a tight game. The game was tied after 3 quarters. It was a real competitive game. We got tired in the fourth quarter”, stated Ivan Crnjac In the loss he filled the stat sheet well scoring 9 points, grabbed 10 boards, dished out 3 assists, blocked 2 shots and got a steal. FC Bayern Munich buckled down in the 4th game beating Derby 77-64. He had 7 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals and a block. “We gave all we had because we wanted to end the tournament with a win. We struggled at the start, but played a lot better in the second half”, added Ivan Crnjac He was really impressed by 15 year olds Marko Volf (7/2/2) and Caspar Vossenberg (12/3) who held their own and were important players for the team. “Both are very talented. Volf has great skills and physical while Vossenberg is very strong and athletic. They both played great”, warned Ivan Crnjac Did the many practices and games take a toll on their energy as a team which led to poor team shooting percentages? “The practices were hard, but not so much that we were tired going into the games. All 4 games were played at a high intense level. I think our fatigue came from the games”, said Ivan Crnjac
The young German who lists Declan Duru as his toughest cover so far in his career has developed very well the last years and has taken the next step this season averaging 20,7ppg, 7,5rpg, 2,0apg, and 2,0spg in the NBBL (U-19) and in the Pro B averaging 11,4ppg, 4,4rpg, 1,8apg and 1,1spg. With what kind of a focus did he come to Munich and ANGT? “I wasn´t assigned a role coming in, but developed a defensive role as the tournament went on. I always had to defend the other team´s best player”, stressed Ivan Crnjac Nikolas Sermpezis was the captain, but Crnjac was one of the older guys on the team. Did he feel like one of the leaders? “I felt that a little bit. I supported him and once in a while was vocal”, said Ivan Crnjac His stat line during ANGE in 4 games was 8,8ppg, 6,0rpg, 2,5apg and 1,3spg in 28,5 minutes. Was he content with his game against the best of Europe? “I think that my game was solid. I feel like I did everything except score. I wasn´t as focused on scoring. I really did all that I wanted to, but wish that I could of scored more”, stressed Ivan Crnjac He also noticed rapidly what he has to better in the future in order to reach the next level. He had 9 turnovers in the last 2 games. “I have to work more on my ball handling. Coach actually wanted me to play more at the guard position, but in the end I was playing the 3-5 positions. I really had problems with ball handling. I have to improve that”, warned Ivan Crnjac He had many great moments, but one that he won´t forget. “Our second win in the fourth game was my fondest moment. We finished fifth. It was a cool moment and the mood was better”, expressed Ivan Crnjac The 17 year old 3 level scorer and universal genius doesn´t have long to reflect on the enriching weekend, but was back on the court a few days later. Then he faced another team BBA Porsche Ludwigsburg in Pro B action that was full of young talents. He faced off against talented Julis Baumer who has BBL experience. Crnjac made another jump scoring a pro high for him with 29 points in a massive win. The grind never ends for the universal genius Ivan Crnjac
German Hoops 