Javontae Hawkins is a 26 year old 196cm forward from Huntigton, West Virginia playing his third professional season and first with the Crailsheim Merlins currently averaging 16,4ppg, 4,6rpg and 1,4apg. Last season he played with Holargos B.C. (Greece-A1) playing 29 games averaging 11.7ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 77.5%. As a rookie he played with the Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 54 games averaging 14.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 79.9%. He played NCAA basketball at three schools with S Florida from 2012-2014 playing 54 NCAA games, then had his break out season with Eastern Kentucky (NCAA) playing 30 games averaging 17.0ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.5% and finished at Fordham (NCAA) playing 31 games averaging 14.0ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 84.3%. He and Eurobasket have teamed up for a diary from the BBL tournament in Munich

You couldn’t play in the game against ratiopharm Ulm due to a broken finger. How are you doing and what is the status of the injury?

I fractured my thumb in game against Bayern Munich. Right now I’m in a healing process physically and since I can’t be out there to play I’m still apart of the team and I’m going to do everything I can to bring positive energy during the games

How disappointed are you that you most likely won’t be playing at the tournament in Munich any more? It seems like the Merlins have suffered a lot of misfortune in Munich.

I’m not really disappointed. I really feel like everything happens for a reason. This is the perfect time for the younger guys like Liam, Aleksa and Vladan to get real game time repetition and experience and a time for me to be in their shoes and cheer them on and give them the confidence because they really deserve to know what it feels like to play against the best competition

Despite the tough 92-80 loss against Ulm, how proud are you of how the team played without so many key players?

I am very proud of the team. Each guy fought very hard and they stuck to the principles that Tuomas instilled from day 1. Yes, we came up short but we fought and left it all on the floor

How tough was it having to sit and watch the game? When you sit and watch a game and not play, is a player able to notice things different then if he was in the competitive focus on the court?

. Like I mentioned before I find joy in this time to sit and watch due to injury because it allows you to be a teammate on a teaching level. It allows you to talk to your teammates while sitting. You can become a somewhat of a cheat code because you see the whole dynamic of the game from offense to defense and you can direct your teammates on the floor by communicating even from the bench

The Merlins had no American in the game and mostly German players. What German player do you feel benefited most from the situation against Ulm?


I think all benefited equally. If I had to say who’s our engine on both defense and offense I’d say Fabi Bleck. He’s the most underrated player in the league to me. And I truly believe he’s a EuroCup/Euroleague player. His IQ on both defense and offense is UNBELIEVABLE. And he’s tough on top of that. He brings it every game. He’s someone I would love to play with every year. He deserves much more credit than what’s given

Crailsheim has one more game playing for pride as opponent EWE Baskets have a must win situation. What kind of game can we await and what will be key to winning it?

Play to win! Have fun and COMPETE!

You have seen many BBL players this season, but what kind of impression has Ricky Paulding left on you in the short time you have been in Germany?

I’m from Michigan so I’ve been knowing of Ricky Paulding since I was younger. He was no surprise to me. He’s one of the best to play in Europe and he’s one of the best to come out of Michigan. I still think he has a few more years left in the tank to be quite honest. He’s a legend.

Thanks Javontae for the chat.

Chris Frazier is a 29 year old 182cm shooting guard that hails from Heidelberg, Germany, but also has the American citizenship and finished his sixth professional season and first with Pro B team Iserlohn playing 21 games averaging 14.7ppg, 1.9rpg, 3.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 45.1%, FT: 92.1%. He will play this upcoming season with pro A team wiha Panthers. In 2018-2019 he played his second season with the Rostock SeaWolves averaging 2,5ppg, in 6,8 minutes per game. In 2017-2018 he helped Rostock reach the Pro A averaging 9,9ppg,1,2rpg and 1,6apg. He started his basketball career at TV Schwetzingen (Germany-2.Regionalliga) before moving to the States to play at Dubuque (NCAA3) from 2010-2014 playing a total of 107 games and as a senior played 26 games averaging 13.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 43.8%, 3PT: 42.0%, FT: 88.0%. He came back to Germany in 2014 and played with the Otto Baskets Magdeburg (Germany-ProB) playing 20 games averaging 16.1ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 80.6%. In the 2015-2016 season he made the jump to the BBL playing for the Crailsheim Merlins (Germany-BBL) playing 13 games averaging 2.3ppg. In the 2016-2017 season he played for the Artland Dragons (Germany-ProB) playing 25 games averaging 13.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 79.4%. He spoke togermanhoops.com during the coronavirus crisis.

Hi Chris where are you at the moment and how is your current mood despite the turmoil at the moment because of the corona outbreak


Hey Miles, its always good to hear from you. I am currently still in Iserlohn, I am waiting to see what the future holds for the world of sports. It is a real situation that we all must take serious. My mood right now is okay. Not knowing what comes next is hard to wrap around.

When you first heard of the Corona Virus did you ever think that it could such an effect on the world?


When I first heard of the virus it was more of a normal reaction. I felt bad for the people that were going through it, but I did think
that it was just going to be another type of a Flu. I wish I thought right and it was just the Flu, but people are getting sick and dying in a rapid pace and it is scary.

How did you experience the day to day life in Iserlohn when you were still in Germany? What things did you notice in the surroundings there that showed that life wasn’t normal?

Well the only thing that changed for me is that we no longer had practice so I am stuck in the house more than I would like to. Surprisingly I didn’t notice much of a change here in Iserlohn. If the stores were allowed to be open it would seem like nothing is wrong at all. People walk around with masks and gloves now, but I think that there is no reason to do that if you just be careful with what’s around you.

Did you become more aware about how you handle yourself in public in terms of shaking hands and not being in the line of fire with somebody coughing?

Hmm yeah a little bit. I don’t like toughing people anyway, I am not a handshake type of guy unless it’s in a professional manner. Other than that I just try to respect peoples space. I know its a dificult time in where people watch a lot of news and really suck in the information, but we also can’t forget to live. We can’t live in fear forever.

Basketball leagues have shut down all over Europe including the Pro B. How disappointed were you about this and not being able to finish the season?

Well as a competitor I wish we could have finished the season regardless of the outcome of our season. It was something I wanted to see through and prove to the city of Iserlohn that we could have stayed in the ProB without the help of Corona. At the end of the day the safety of everyone is more important right now and we have to stick together to get through this.

Before leagues were shut down there was a BCL game in Bonn against AEK Athens and a Fiba Eurocup game in Bayreuth without spectators. What is your overall opinion of playing without fans?


Well it is a tricky question and it will be a subject going into planning the next season. Will we continue playing games without fans? I mean if that is what it takes for us to be able to play the game we love than I would be for it. There with be a cure for this sooner or later and I believe if we want to continue playing sooner rather than later then that has to be a realistic option.

What have you learned about these tough times that has made you a better person?


Just to not take life for granted. Always be grateful for the time you spend here on this earth because you never know if something like this will come to change the lives of all of us.

Will it be a adjustment having to start 3 months earlier with workouts and basketball skill development? What will be the advantages and disadvantages?

I think it would be a period where I will find it kind of weird. Most of us have that summer routine to let the body rest before we start back up.The advantage of this is that next season could be the season where everyone will be in the best shape of their lives because they have more time to prepare. The disadvantage is that all the gyms are closed so we have to depend on body weight training and also doing it on our own and not in groups. I always feel like working out alone is more of a challenge than in a group.

The whole world economy is going to be affected including German basketball. How worried are you about the future of professional basketball? The next season will have many changes. How are you handling this mentality now knowing what to expect?

Well it all depends. If the league meaning Pro B up to the BBL would change their budget rules for a year then more teams might be able to survive. this. Is it that simple? probably not or else it would have been done. Who knows? Like you said a lot of things will change. salaries will probably be a lot lower so we will see how that ball rolls.

If you had to name another player besides guys from the kangaroos that you have been in most contact with via social media who would it be?


Darian Cardenas ( Scanplus Elchingen)

How has your approach to family changed since the outbreak of Corona? What things have you seen yourself do that you may not have done before?

Nothing really. I talk to my family every other day so my approach is pretty much the same.

Congrats on signing with Pro A team wiha Panthers Schwenningen. How excited are you to prove that you can be a good Pro A player after not being able to do it in Rostock?

Thanks!!! I am very excited to get another opportunity in the ProA. I didn’t really get the chance in Rostock. I am very confident that I will have a better year this time around!

How vital was the fact that head coach Alen Velcic wanted you in Schwenningen very badly for you to go there?

It meant a lot to me! Because usually I have a summer full of tryouts and for Coach Alen to just call and tell me he wants me in Schwenningen is a blessing and was a no brainer for me.

Your known for being a very deadly shooter. How confident that you will be able to continue your hot shooting from last season in a higher league and better defenders?

Very! I finally found my game again and felt like I could do anything! I know the ProA will be a lot tougher, but I believe Coach Alen will put me in a lot of good situations to succeed.

You have very much experience, have played in the NCAA, BBL and Pro A. Do you see yourself becoming an important vocal leader for the club?

Sure. It’s crazy that I’ve been through all the leagues and I can share my experience with some of my new teammates. I’d love to take on the vocal roll this year. It would be a new type of challenge that would also keep me focused!

Lets talk about the season of Iserlohn. The club finished with a disappointing 7-15 season landing in 10th place. How disappointing was this season
for you?

Very disappointing. coming from a Pro B season where we moved up and a Pro A season after that where we went to battle with Hamburg was tough. I was
thinking that we would at least make the playoffs. We had the players and personel for it, but sometimes things don’t workout like that.I put a lot of that on my own shoulders. The city deserved better.

The Club had battled to a 2-2 record in the last 4 games after suffering losing 6 of 7 games, but you had recently beat Duesseldorf by 25 points. How confident were you that the club would have prevailed in the playdowns beating Duesseldorf possibly for the last Pro B spot.


I was very confident because I was just starting to play the best basketball I have ever played in my life. My guys were hungry and we were willing to run into anything to get what we wanted to achieve.

Early on the club really as better than its end record. You started 2-2, but then suffered a 5 game losinf streak in which you played top team Itzehoe tough, but lost and then lost to Duesseldorf by 1 and by 2 to Bochum. Did these close games have a mental effect on the team?

I believe so because a lot of the guys have never lost 5 games in a row. I was able to keep calm because I have experienced this type of season in Crailsheim once before so I knew how to handle myself.

Iserlohn gave up more points than it made and weren’t the best rebounding team having only one experienced big man with Jozo Brkic. How much did
consistency weigh into the problems with the team.

Yeah I would say we were missing some athleticism, but I do believe if our big man Dennis Teucher didn’t get hurt our season would have looked different.

Lets talk about your teammates. How much of a pleasure was it playing with Elijah Allen. The guy has so much experience and played 3 years in the
ProA.

Elijah is a big factor on why I found myself again. It took me a while to find my game because of the wasted year I had in Rostock. I didn’t play the best to my ability at the time and Elijah always reminded me that I can play and that I can play at the Pro A level. That’s when I started to find myself again and play the way I knew how.

Have you ever played with sets of brothers on the same team before this season? What was is like playing with Ruben and Joshua Dhamen? What did you appreciate most about their games and please tell a nice story about each guy.

You would think that if you have a brother around the same age that their game would be the same. They are the complete opposite. Ruben being the PG and Joshua playing the SF\PF position it was interesting to see how their games were so different. I can tell a nice story with them together. Both welcomed me to the team with open arms. We always played against each other and battled\trash talked each other, but once I came here we all had a get together at their place and had a fun time with the team. Both of them are born leaders and great teammates.

You also played briefly with another set of brothers with Malte and Kris Schwarz with the later retiring after 4 games and moving to America. Both had enormous experience in Germany and even played in the BBL with Phoenix Hagen. How special are these two brothers and what will you
never forget about them.

It’s funny because I played against both in my career. Me and Kristof didn’t really like each other. Kris is the typical floor general and I was at the time that arrogant player that wanted to prove that I was the best so me and him always battled when I played Iserlohn. I played Malte when he was in Goettingen and he lit us up with a quick 12 point performance. I will never forget Kris because I really got to know how he is as a person and it made me feel bad about how I acted towards him. Malte…man…talk about a leader that leads by example. Me and him battled every day in practice and he also helped me get back to myself.

Lets talk about your game. You played 21 games Avg 14.7ppg, 1.9rpg, 3.4asp, 1spg FGP 56.9% 3Pt 45% FT92%. You stated in our last interview that after your disappointing
Rostock season where you didn’t get minutes, you said you would come back and prove yourself and did. In my opinion you had your best season as a professional. How content
were you with your season.

I am proud of myself. being able to find my game in such a short time was surprising. I wish I could have started the way I finished then maybe we would have won more games,
but like I told you last year. I was on a mission to prove myself and show that I was still here. Nobody can take that from me regardless on how our season ended.

You Stated in our last interview that you were too Skinny for the Pro A. Did you put on sufficient weight last summer that helped you become a better player.

Well I didn’t gain the weight I needed, but I did get stronger. I improved my game to where you can’t out play me at the PG position now and not just be a undersized 2 guard.
I just focused on parts of my game that can help me do more than just shoot the three.

You reached a very special 50-40-90 club. What does it mean for you to have achieved this difficult stat and is it something you had ever thought about in your career as something you could be capable of achieving.


No. I finally learned after years of trying to just not care anymore. The more I think the more I put pressure on myself. If you look at the second half of the season my 3pt% is crazy because I finally figured out how not to care so much. It helped me be more sharp and make a lot more of my shots.

What new steps did you take with Iserlohn where you can say you made new strides in your game that you didn’t have before?

Handling the ball and playing in the pick and roll. Every year until now I was always dependent on my PG getting me open looks. I got a lot better handling the ball and playing
the pick and roll. It puts a whole new aspect on my game that people can’t overlook.

Like Elijah Allen you had two of your best games in very close loses to Duesseldorf and Wedel, but hit Duesseldorf in other game with 26 points. Was that your most memorable personal game of the season.

Even though we lost to Wedel. that was the most memorable because I only had 9 points in the first half and I wanted to do whatever I could to get the W. Plus 31 points is my career high as a pro.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the Pro B this season?

Montreal Scott!!!

Luka Doncic had an amazing sophomore campaign. Is he a top 3 NBA player now.

No give him 2 more years and then it can be discussed.

Where were you when you heard about Kobe bryants death? What kind of influence did he have on you during adolescense?

I was hanging out with one of my teammates and it hurt. It felt like I knew Kobe because I grew up watching Kobe andI’m talking about the #8 kobe….R.I.P Kobe!

How bitter is it that the NCAA March Madness has been canceled? This tournament for some kids is the greatest time of their lives. What advice would you give that senior who worked hard for 4 years and would have gad his once and only chance now?

Man I can only imagine how they felt. Some of those seniors will never play basketball again at that kind of level or higher and I just felt bad for them. My advice would be to just remember the good times. College basketball is the greatest experience you can have. It’s okay to be angry now, but once you realize that the health of yourself and others come first you will understand it later on.

What was the last movie you saw?


During these times I had to watch Coach Carter again!

Thanks Chris for the chat.

Kameron Taylor is a 26 year old 198cm guard from Hyattsville, Maryland that is playing his fourth professional season and first with Brose Bamberg. Last season he played with Pecsi VSK-Veolia (Hungary-A Division) currently averaging 19.2ppg), 8.1rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-1 (2.2spg), FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 74.8%. Two seasons ago he played in Germany with the Dragons Rhondorf and tore up the Pro B averaging 23,4ppg, 7,9rpg and 5,6apg, and 2,6spg. As a rookie he played with Team Ehingen Urspring (Germany-ProA) playing 29 games averaging 10.8ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 43.9%, FT: 80.2%. He started his basketball career at DeMatha Catholic and in 2012-2013 started his career at Seton Hill (NCAA2) and as a freshman played 28 games averaging 7.8ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 70.0%. In his second season at Seton Hill (NCAA2) he played 27 games averaging 12.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.6apg, 2.0spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 77.9%. In his junior season at Seton Hill (NCAA2) he played 16 games averaging 13.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.3%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 70.6%. In his senior year at Seton Hill (NCAA2) he played 27 games averaging 20.8ppg, 8.7rpg, 4.1apg, 2.2spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 76.8%. He and germanhoops.com have teamed up sharing a diary from the 2020 BBL tournament in Munich.

Kam a tough 98-91 loss in the first game. What kind of an experience was it playing against a tough place in a neutral spot being Munich? What really stood out with the constant yelling of the players and coaches for the 40 minutes?

I felt like the referees actually hear all the talking between players and the yelling from the coaches a lot clearer than when fans are on the floor. Other than that I always am so focused on the game that I’m not concerned about fans not being there.

Bamberg started off slow and came back. From then on it was an exciting game, but at the 85-85 mark, Alba berlin broke away thanks to 2 three’s from Marcus Eriksson. Did fatigue get in the way in this key time of the game?


We played well for about 38 minutes but to beat a team like Berlin you must be solid for 40 minutes.

A big factor were the 14 offensive rebounds that Alba Berlin hauled down. What annoys you most about not having a better team handle on getting key defensive rebounds?

The most annoying thing is that if we limited that one stat we could put ourselves in a better position to win.

Alba Berlin was very overpowering from the bench and seemed to always have an answer. What hurt Bamberg most on the defensive end in this game?

Rebounding and they hit a couple threes at the end. Other than that I thought defensively we were solid.

Bamberg has 48 hours to prepare for the next tough game against Ludwigsburg. What positives can you take from this game and take it into the Ludwigsburg game?

If we come out with energy, focus, and paying attention to the little details. Then we can beat anyone.

Ludwigsburg have their own type of Jordan Crawford with Marcos Knight. Without Knight, Frankfurt most likely would have beat Ludwigsburg. Is slowing down Knight half the rent and is he the perfect 1-1 player you don’t want to face, but would love to have on your team?

He’s a great player and very good for the Ludwigsburg team. But we are focusing more on what we want to do rather than specific players.

You finished with 11 points in 21 minutes, but was 1/5 from outside. What was the biggest adjustment that you had to make playing competively again after many months of not having played?

Probably trying to prepare for a competitive tournament in 2 weeks after not playing a official game in 3 months. I think that adjustment alone is difficult for any player.

After a performance like this will you put up a few more three’s after practice or do you have enough confidence in your three that you may work on other parts of your game when the opportunity arises?

I will continue to just play my game. It was our first real game in 3 months. So just knocking the rust off.

A little more than 2 years ago you were finishing your Pro B season with the Dragons Rhondorf. What have you been able to cherish the most about being a BBL player the second time around in comparison to the first time in Wurzburg?


My teammates and being in Champions league. Playing against different competition all over Europe was definitely a different experience.

Have you checked out the game room? If yes what player has been able to show his talent there best?

No I just been playing FIFA with my teammates on our floor of the hotel. I haven’t lost.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Bad boys 3

Thanks Kam for the chat.

Lamont Jones a 29 year old 183cm guard from Harlem, New York that is playing his 7th professional season and third in Germany and first with the Fraport after having played with MBC and the MHP Riesen. He also gathered professional experience in countries like Japan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, France and Montenegro. He began his basketball career at Rice high school and then played 2 seasons at the University of Arizona (NCAA) and 2 seasons with Iona (NCAA). He is conducting a special diary with germanhoops.com at the BBL Munich tournament

Before we chat about the loss against Ludwigsburg, I have to ask you how are you feeling. You went down against Ludwigsburg. Can you play against Vechta on Thursday?

At the moment I’m not optimistic that I will play against Vechta. I will see how I’m feeling in the morning. I have a lot of pain right now. Painkillers aren’t really helping. I have a bad hematoma. It is the worst pain that I have ever had. I felt like I had to throw up.

You came into the tournament so focused and motivated and had good feelings about the team’s chances. Now your season may be over. How are you doing mentally?

I’m doing good mentally, but it’s a bummer what has happened to me and just very unfortunate. You haven’t played for so long, then you can play again and you get hurt. But I understand the risks of playing. It is nothing that you can control. I’m just going to rehab and understand that it is part of the game and that this happens.

Another tough loss and the third of the season against the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. Is there a curse on the Fraport Skyliners to close out games?

I don’t know what it is. I don’t know if it’s a curse. It just keeps happening. If you watch the end of the game then you saw Richie Freundenberg defending Marcos Knight very well. Marcos dribbled the ball like 20 times and hit a in your face fade away jumper over him. The ball sat on the rim and rolled it. I was thinking then when are we going to get a break? We watched the tape and Mcquaid wasn’t out of bounds. I thought that he was fouled. Losing like this was a total bummer, but it’s part of the game. We just have to keep chopping away and get a win. The guys did what they could. It was the last seconds and could of gone either way. There was nothing we could do about it.

Does a team need a Bartolo,Tez and Freudenberg on Marcos Knight to totally shut him down or is he really just a perfect 1-1 player?

He is a tough cover and is a bull. I played with him last season and tip my hat to him. For me if there is anyone that I would be ok with beating us then it’s Marcos. I’m very close to him. He is a great person and father. He has put in the work and time to be the player that he is. He was firing on all cylinders against us. He did what Marcos does. He had the hot hand.

I hate asking the question, but what positives could the team take from the loss? How key is winning the rebound battle easily, getting 21-9 assists and shooting 81%-56% from the free throw line? when you still lose at the end?

I felt like we played a great game We rebounded the ball very well which was a key for the game for us. Our spirts aren’t down. Tez found his rhythm. Bartolo was being Bartolo and the other guys like Richie Freudenberg and Gytis Maciulis are also playing well. Akeem Vargas is playing very efficiently. We believe that we can win games and are all locked in

17 year old German Len Schoormann had another solid game with 7 points. Ex Skyliner Adam Waleskowski said months ago that the German was playing well in practice. How have you seen his development and can he be more than a solid BBL player in the future?

Len is young and still has a lot of work to do, but he has a lot of heart. He is always willing to listen. He doesn’t say much, but soaks everything in. This is pivotal in his growth as a player. I think that when he has more experience, he will come into his own and be a force. His development this season has been phenomenal. 

How was the day today? Talk a little about the team schedule today and how the pre game preparation is going against Rasta Vechta?

We had an optimal breakfast. Then we had recovery. Then we had lunch at 12:15 which was followed with a walk through and then a team meeting and film. We capped off the day with a barbeque. Every team has one at some stage of the tournament. 

Rasta Vechta like Crailsheim don’t have as deep a roster as the other teams. What kind of game can we await and what will be key to getting the win?

This game will be a dog fight. All teams want to win. Our spirits are high, Tez is in rhythm and I think that we will play a good game. Keys to winning against Vechta will be rebounding and playing good defense. We also have to continue to believe.

There is a game room in the hotel. Have you checked it out and if so what player has made shown a good figure there?

I haven’t played video games since 1998. I watch people play and many get so caught up with it. I see my brother sit in front of a TV for 16 hours. I don’t knock anyone doing it, but for me it just isn’t appealing. I played video games with my dad when I was very young in our living room. Then when he died, I never played again. It just didn’t feel right. I tried to play Call Of Duty when I was playing in Saudi Arabia, but it didn’t feel right either. I played for 1 day there. It was very short lived. 

Who wins a one on one you or Akeem Vargas?

Me. He is a great defender, but I’m a great scorer. I don’t take many players over me. I played against him the last years and now he guards me every day in practice. I know his tendencies. A one on one would be fun.

Thanks Mo Mo for the chat.

Javontae Hawkins is a 26 year old 196cm forward from Huntigton, West Virginia playing his third professional season and first with the Crailsheim Merlins currently averaging 16,4ppg, 4,6rpg and 1,4apg. Last season he played with Holargos B.C. (Greece-A1) playing 29 games averaging 11.7ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 77.5%. As a rookie he played with the Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 54 games averaging 14.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 79.9%. He played NCAA basketball at three schools with S Florida from 2012-2014 playing 54 NCAA games, then had his break out season with Eastern Kentucky (NCAA) playing 30 games averaging 17.0ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.5% and finished at Fordham (NCAA) playing 31 games averaging 14.0ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 84.3%. He and germanhoops.com have teamed up for a diary from the BBL tournament in Munich

Crailsheim suffered their second loss in the tournament against FC Bayern Munich. How tough has it been experiencing these loses considering how good everything was working before COVID-19 hit?


It’s very tough, but it’s a learning situation for us as a team. With injury and new players we have to find a way to be the best version of ourselves. The coaches have been doing a great job of that during this tournament in reminding us who we are, what we do and how we can become better. The past is the past and I feel like every team in the BBL respects us for what we did and brought to the table at full strength

It is obvious that you are a big time competitor and are focused to beat any team. But the overall talent level between both teams was very big. What were the biggest problems that the Merlins had? Was it containing their hot shooting or defense which forced you to 19 turnovers.

The biggest problem we had was inexperience. However I am proud of how we stayed in the fights despite the result.

A big loss was not having the services of Dewayne Russell. How proud are you of kids Liam Carpenter and Aleksa Kovacevic for doing the best job they could against the top team in the BBL?

It was very tough to not have Dewayne Russell out there on the court as our starting point guard. He has been exceptional all year, and has had an MVP season but it’s the right thing to do for him to sit out for the best interest of his future. The younger guys like Liam, Aleksa and Vladan came in and gave a lot of energy and played with no fear. I respect those guys especially Liam who has been working so hard all year despite seeing limited action. Those guys deserve to be out there due to the hard work and patience they’ve had all year and on top of being GREAT teammates.

You had 8 points and 4 rebounds in 23 minutes and took the third most shots on the team. When you look back at the game, could you have been more aggressive on the offensive end?


I think my performance wasn’t the best. But it’s not about what I do, or how many points I put up. In the second half I focused on playing the right way instead of trying to take over the game by making the right plays, getting guys open shots and being a great teammate. I just want the younger guys to know that despite defeat you must continue to play the right way.

The club is now 0-2 and faces 2-0 Ulm. You face a must win and a win would do wonders for the club. Do you still have memories of the 91-79 win over Ulm during the regular season?

I feel like every time we lace them up we have an opportunity to win. We have an opportunity to be better than yesterday. And it’s key to keep our same principles going into the game against Ulm. What we did earlier against Ulm is in the books, it’s fun to talk about and look back on but we must focus on reality and try to find a way to win this time around.

Ratiopharm Ulm are one of the favorites to win the title now and have a very deep roster. What will be most key to get the win?

The biggest key for us to win is to be who we are and play how we practice. And be happy with the results in the end as long as we played our best and left it all on the floor.

You play against so many guys, but do you get excited over playing against a guy like ex Kentucky guard Archie Goodwin who played many years in the NBA?


I always get excited about playing against all players. Archie Goodwin is a great player. But there is no one I feel like I have to prove that I can play at a high level. I know what I can do and I believe that what I do best is what’s best for the team no matter who I’m going against.

How have the last days been in the hotel? Have you had any chats with opponents or has your focus been on keeping your distance from other players?

Me and Jarelle Reishel, Christian Sengfelder, Tre Mcclean, Zamal Nixion, Teyvon Myers have all had conversations since being in the hotel about the season, about future plans, etc. I wish those guys a healthy tournament and future seasons.

Have you checked out the game room yet? Any favorite games that has caught your attention?


I have no checked out the game room yet but I plan on checking it out very soon.

Thanks Javontae for the chat.

 Zamal Nixon is a 31 year old 186cm guard form Brooklyn, New York that is playing his 9th professional season. He began the season with the MLP Academics Heidelberg (Germany-ProA) playing 28 games averaging 13.7ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 61.6%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 82.3%. He was signed by the MHP Riesen for the BBL season ending tournament in Munich. He played for other teams in Germany like Herten (Pro B), Phoenix Hagen (BBL) and Nurnberg (Pro A). He also played in Poland, Austria, Austria and 3 years with GS Lavrio (Greece-A1). He began his basketball career at Xavier high school and then played at the University of Houston (NCAA) form 2007-2011 playing a total of 122 NCAA games and as a senior played 30 games averaging 10.3ppg, 2.6rpg, AssistsCUSA-3 (4.7apg), StealsCUSA-3 (1.8spg), FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 36.1%, FTNCAA-3 (92.2%). He spoke to germanhoops.com shortly before the begin of the BBL tournament in Munich.

Zamal thanks for talking to germanhoops.com We did our first interview together in 2012 in your rookie season with Herten and second one in 2014 when you had your first tour of duty in the BBL with Phoenix Hagen. How has time flown by since then?


The time has flown by rather quickly. My first professional job was here in Germany and for me it’s hard to believe that now I’m headed into my 10th year as a pro.

Let’s talk a bit about the last months that has shocked the world with COVID-19. How did you experience the last 3 months. Did you return to the States or did you remain in Munich?

I stayed in Munich the whole time. Me being from New York and New York being one of the places that was hit the hardest with the Virus I thought staying in Munich with my family would be the best option.

How did you experience the day to day dealings with life during COVID-19? What was the most difficult thing to get adjusted to during these difficult times?


The toughest part for me was not being able to move around freely. Stores, restaurants, gyms, and even parks were all closed. It was difficult staying in the house so much, but I’m happy things seems to slowly be getting back to normal.

How do you feel did you get stronger as a person during COVID-19?

I wouldn’t say it’s made me any stronger but it’s help me appreciate the little things in life that I might have taken for granted.

How did you stay in shape best during this time? Did you sense like you might land with a team somewhere to end the current season when it was made known that the pro A season was over?

For me during this time staying in basketball shape was a bit difficult. Nothing can prepare you to be in that type of shape besides actually playing games in my opinion. I rode my bike a lot around Munich though, and was able to do some running outside as well. As far as getting on a team goes I really wasn’t sure what would be possible. I just knew that if a team did need a player that maybe me being in Germany already would work in my favor.

You played in Germany in 3 of your first 4 professional seasons and then was away for 4 years playing 3 years in Greece before returning back to Germany to play in the Pro A with Heidelberg. You last played in the Pro A with Nurnberg in 2012-2013 How have you witnessed the Pro A change in the last 7 years?

The Pro A has changed a lot in many ways for the better I would say. Having a social media presence is something new that wasn’t really going on while I was playing. Also having all the games available for people to watch on Air tango was great. When I was playing back in 2012 it was a lot more difficult for people back home in the states to be able to watch games. It also seems like there are a lot more ambitious clubs in the Pro A. A lot of teams want to make that push to get into the first league. Teams like Chemnitz Bremerhaven Jena Heidelberg Rostock Nuremberg are among a few I can think off of. You even have a lot of former first league clubs in the Pro A now as well. With Artland, Trier, Hagen & Tuebingen are all teams who I played against when I was in the first league as well.

How disappointed were you that you couldn’t finish the season with the MLP Academics Heidelberg. What did you enjoy most this experience and do you feel like the club could have made a run in the playoffs?

It was unfortunate that the season had to end the way it did. Especially for us in Heidelberg. Right before the season ended we were playing really good basketball. I enjoyed playing in Heidelberg it’s a really great club & everyone in the city is excited about the new arena that’s being built. I have no doubt in my mind that we could have made a deep run in the playoffs.

You have signed with the MHP Riesen for the final tournament in Munich. How exciting is it to be back in the BBL and what are your memories of the league when you were with Hagen?

It’s exciting to be back in the BBL especially for this tournament which is something I’m sure everyone in Germany will always remember and will always be talked about. The league has changed a lot since I was in the league. I think the league has gotten better every year and it’s really cool to see teams like Vetcha who was in the Pro B when I started and now they are one of the better teams in the league and even played champions league this season.

What is your impression of the club? The team has lost some key players with Leissner, Carrington and Konga but gained you and Teyvon Myers. How is the team shaping up on the court and how have you adjusted to the style of John Patrick?

Ludwigsburg has established themselves as one of the best teams in the BBL over the course of the last couple years. Coach Patrick has done a great job in the BBL and in international competition as well. They went to final 4 in Champions league a few years ago which was a great accomplishment for the club. Teyvon went to the same High school as me He’s a little bit younger but I’ve known him since he was a teenager and it’s been cool to play with him after us having such a long friendship. I think the team is shaping up well. It’s a lot of talented guys on the team and everyone has been working hard. I think I’m adjusting well. J.P has done a great job of communicating the things he wants from me both defensively and offensively and really making me feel welcomed here so all in all it’s been a smooth transition so far.

What has been your impression of German big man Ariel Hukporti? He is on the radar of many NBA teams. How far do you see his game compared to the most talented NCAA players that are his age?

Ariel has been fun to watch and play with. I think he has tremendous upside if he keeps working. If he went to college in the states I’m sure he would be a 5 star recruit and have offers from every major University.

How cool is it sharing the back court with Jaleen Smith another guy like you that had to pay his dues in the Pro A before making the jump to the BBL. Do you have a different kind of relationship with him considering the type of paths you started to take as professionals?


I met Jaleen a few times because he came to Heidelberg to watch some games during the season. He’s a great guy & it’s definitely cool to share the backcourt with someone who’s grinding their way to the first league through the lower leagues. I always have a different level of respect for those guys because I know first hand how hard it is.

What kind of role do you see yourself having with this team that will have more scoring options than Heidelberg? You don’t always have to score 30 points in a game. Could we see you having more of a playmaking role?


As far as my role goes here I just want to help my guys out in anyway possible. Over the course of the last 4 years I’ve played as playmaker more than any other position so I’m comfortable in that role. We have a lot of weapons offensively so I’m just here to help wherever I can. Weather it’s scoring passing defending or cheering the guys on from the side. I just want to win.

You have played for many coaches in your life like Ingo Fryer in Hagen where defense wasn’t an issue and now have John Patrick who preaches defense. Do you feel like you can make another step as a defender in the next weeks at age 31?

No matter how old you are I think you can always find ways to get better. So for sure I believe that playing for a defensive minded coach can help me better myself.

How is Zamal Nixon a different player today than when he played with Phoenix Hagen?

I think the biggest thing is that I have a lot more experience now. I’ve played in Greece and France since I left Hagen. Playing in different countries and adapting to different styles really has helped my IQ for the game grow even more. I understand European basketball now a lot more than I did back then. I believe I’ve sharpened my skills and grown a lot mentally throughout these years since Hagen.

All 10 teams are staying in the same hotel. It won’t be easy avoiding other players. If you had to chose 2 players that are in the tournament that you would like to get to know better who would you pick? I can image that guys like Rickey Paulding and Quantez Robertson will be high on the list?

I’m new here to the team and have only known these guys for about 2 weeks so I think I’ll spend my time in Munich getting to know the guys on my team a little bit better.

There is a lot of turmoil in the States concerning the death of George Floyd who was murdered by a white policeman. Ratiopharm Ulm legend Per Guenther has stated he will pay the first 10,000 euro in player fines should players get involved with making some kind of protest during the tournament. Do you think that these could happen with the influx of Americans that are taking part in the tournament?

First I I would like to start by saying that I have a unbelievable amount of respect for Per Gunther for coming out and making such a strong statement it’s speaks volumes to his character and the type of person he is. As far as protest goes I don’t think any players are going to protest anything. In the U.S we are dealing with a great deal of systemic racism, inequality and Police brutality. So speaking up on these issue or wearing clothing that supports our stance shouldn’t be a problem with anyone in my opinion. If anything it should be supported by the league because a lot of players that have played in the league come from these areas where people are suffering from these problems.

You played 3 seasons in Greece. How do you feel did your game progress being able to play against top Euroleague teams Panathinaikos and Olympiakos?

Playing in Greece helped me better myself as a player a lot. The league is very tactical and physical. Many of the games are played in hostile environments. I think I became a lot smarter and tougher mentally throughout my years playing there. Greece has many historically successful teams. Olympiacos, Panathinaikos, AEK, POAK ARIS, & Pertisteri all have rich tradition within the European basketball world.

What memories do you have having played many years against top guard Nick Calathes? What was most challenging about limiting him as best as you could with his game?

Nick is one of the best guards in Europe. With his size IQ and ability to pass to the ball makes it very tough to guard. He hast he ability to control the game without scoring, but has the ability to score if the team needs him to.

You also battled one of Europe’s best point guards Mike James who played in the NBA before, but recently signed a 3 year deal to remain with CSKA Moscow. Despite having played against so many players in your career can you still remember scenes on the court with him and you that just have stuck in your mind?


Mike James is a big time guard also one of the best in Europe. you can only imagine how much of headache it was for teams having to stop him and Nick. I just remember Mike James being a guy who can score all types of ways, & having great athletic ability.

You played a season with Euroleague player Kevin Punter. Would you have thought years ago that he could make the Euroleague and how much of that chip on his shoulder has helped him get to where he is today?

K.P is a guy I always knew had the talent to play at a higher level. But how fast things has happened for him has been surprising to me. To think he has 2 Champions League Titles and now is playing Euroleague already in only his 4th or 5th year as a pro is amazing. That chip he plays with on his shoulder is the reason he is where he’s at now. I couldn’t be more happy for him and all the success he’s having.

Please name your NBA Rushmore of past and present players?

My Mount Rushmore would be Jordan, Kobe, LeBron, Tim Duncan & Shaq. These are the guys from my generation that I actually got to watch. Not taking anything away from the other great players that paved the way before I was old enough to watch the game.

Did the current incredible ‘Last dance’ documentary help Michael Jordan solidify his title as the greatest of all-time a bit more and make it a bit harder again for Lebron James to pass him one day?

I personally don’t think LeBron will ever be able to pass M.J . That doesn’t mean LeBron isn’t a great player but when you watch the Documentary and you see how much of a larger than life figure that Mike was even before social media was around I don’t think we will ever see anything like Mike again.

What was the last movie that you saw?


The last movie/show I watched was ‘Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich’

Thanks Zamal for the chat.

Kameron Taylor is a 26 year old 198cm guard from Hyattsville, Maryland that is playing his fourth professional season and first with Brose Bamberg. Last season he played with Pecsi VSK-Veolia (Hungary-A Division) currently averaging 19.2ppg), 8.1rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-1 (2.2spg), FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 74.8%. Two seasons ago he played in Germany with the Dragons Rhondorf and tore up the Pro B averaging 23,4ppg, 7,9rpg and 5,6apg, and 2,6spg. As a rookie he played with Team Ehingen Urspring (Germany-ProA) playing 29 games averaging 10.8ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 43.9%, FT: 80.2%. He started his basketball career at DeMatha Catholic and in 2012-2013 started his career at Seton Hill (NCAA2) and as a freshman played 28 games averaging 7.8ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 70.0%. In his second season at Seton Hill (NCAA2) he played 27 games averaging 12.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.6apg, 2.0spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 77.9%. In his junior season at Seton Hill (NCAA2) he played 16 games averaging 13.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.3%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 70.6%. In his senior year at Seton Hill (NCAA2) he played 27 games averaging 20.8ppg, 8.7rpg, 4.1apg, 2.2spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 76.8%. He and germanhoops.com have teamed up sharing a diary from the 2020 BBL tournament in Munich.

How was the last week of training in Bamberg? How was the team looking after the long lay off? What things were good and not so good?

We actually have been looking really good in the last week of practice. Everyone’s conditioning is up and we were able to play a lot of 5 on 5. I guess the only bad part is that we weren’t able to play vs other teams to get a feel for other teams.

 How were the first 24 hours in Munich? How are the hotel accomodations and what has been most pleasant of the situation so far?

I haven’t stayed a full 24 hours just yet but the best thing is having your own room.

 Is it a positive or a negative to be playing your first game on the fourth day against Alba Berlin which will be playing their second game?

I think its the best thing because we get to see where we are against one of the favorites in the tournament. With fresh as legs as well.

There has been a lot of drama the last weeks in Bamberg concerning management and the club. How confident are you that the players are totally focused 100% on the tournament?

We are 100% focused and excited to play. We are trying to do something special with this tournament. So I have only been focusing on what we want to do in the tournament.

You lost a tough 4 point contest to Alba Berlin and then got pounded by 37 points. Alba Berlin is for many a favorite. Have you guys learned from the 2 loses and what will have to be better this time to be successful?

We have to be focused and locked in a full 40 minutes. We know Berlin is a very quality team and it’s going to take full focus and effort to get a win.

Funniest teammate experience so far in Munich?

You are going to have to ask me in a couple days because we just got here lol

With what non Bamberg player have you had the first real meaningful experience with in Munich?

I haven’t really met anybody here from the other team. But shoutout to Per Gunther He has my full respect for acknowledging what’s happening in the states.

 How cool has it been being teammates with Jordan Crawford? What have you soaked up from him and is there something you asked him about his NBA days that you just had to know?

Jordan been great, he’s the ultimate scorer, with a lot of experience. So I really like guarding him every day because if I can guard him then it’s not too many people that can go like him.

 Who wins a one on one in practice this season you or Paris Lee?

No one is beating me in one on one.

Thanks Kam for the chat.

Lamont Jones is a 29 year old 183cm guard from Harlem, New York that is playing his 7th professional season and third in Germany and first with the Fraport after having played with MBC and the MHP Riesen. He also gathered professional experience in countries like Japan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, France and Montenegro. He began his basketball career at Rice high school and then played 2 seasons at the University of Arizona (NCAA) and 2 seasons with Iona (NCAA). He is conducting a special diary with germanhoops.com at the BBL Munich tournament

A tough 82-71 loss against Alba Berlin. How tough is it going back to the hotel after a difficult loss and seeing your opponent walking around?


I haven’t seen them around much. In a tournament setting like this you have to play for the next game. I thought a bit about the game when we left the gym, but as soon as dinner was over and we watched film, I was already focused for the next game.

It is no secret that a basketball game has 40 minutes. Once again the Fraport Skyliners were unable to put together a game for 40 minutes. What is your summary for not being able to get the win?


I think that at a certain point we lost our legs and Bartolo got hurt. We missed some easy shots and we didn’t have that rhythm yet. It was our first game in a long time. But I feel that we played a lot better than we expected. Despite the loss, I’m really excited to see how we will rebound from the loss and play against Ludwigsburg. I think that after that first game we won’t have the jitters and hype that we had against Alba Berlin. I believe that we will be more locked in and focused against Ludwigsburg.

Did the 9-0 run to begin the fourth quarter decide the game?

No because we did come back and were down only 3 points. I had some good looks and shots I usually make. Shooting just felt weird in that first game. For months I shot by myself and didn’t go against other players. We did a good job controlling the game and had chances down the stretch. It was a game of runs and we have to understand that we played against Alba Berlin. They had no run the whole game and then had one in the 4th quarter. We played good, but just couldn’t finish.

What positives could the Fraport Skyliners take form this opening game loss? Perhaps the strong play of Yorman Polas Bartolo?

Bartolo will be on the floor against Ludwigsburg. I thought that we moved the ball well and played together. Freudenberg came out of the gate very aggressive. We fed of Bartolo’s energy early. He had something like 3 steals early. When he went down, our energy went down. A positive going into the Ludwigsburg game is that we know our bodies will feel better and the whole experience will feel more normal on the court.

You had 10 -points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists and 1 steal. How pleased were you with your play?

I didn’t play well. I got a lot of looks, but I couldn’t get to my spots as well because of my legs. It had been 3 months since I last played a game. I always expect to play better even when I played a good game. The whole feeling was worse because we lost.

You played 24 minutes. Do you feel like a team performance like this that you could have been more aggressive?

Yes I should have been more aggressive. I shot too many jump shots. After a while I was 3 point happy. I can always be more aggressive. I shot 2 long jumpers and felt good. I wanted to shoot more and never got into attack mode. The aggressiveness comes with time.

How difficult is it having to prepare for a tough team like Ludwigsburg within 48 hours. What is key in preparation in a short time and are you looking forward to playing your old team?

You try to watch as much film as possible and follow scouting. Important also is to prepare the mind and do things differently. Keys to the win will be to keeping them off the glass and matching their aggressiveness. I’m looking forward to the matchup between Bartolo and Wimbish. I have no real special feelings playing against my old team. We lost to them twice this season. I am very motivated to play them and win.

You have always been a great scorer, but how did you grow on the defensive end with John Patrick as head coach?

It was a tough year for me. I sat out for some time. I learned more about life situations off the floor than anything else. I learned to be strong minded.

How wins a one on one you or Quantez Robertson?

We actually played for the first time a few weeks ago. Tez, Bruno and I played king of the court. I challenged to play him. It feels good to have beaten one of the top defenders in the league

Thanks Lamont for the chat.

 Javontae Hawkins is a 26 year old 196cm forward from Huntigton, West Virginia playing his third professional season and first with the Crailsheim Merlins currently averaging 16,4ppg, 4,6rpg and 1,4apg. Last season he played with Holargos B.C. (Greece-A1) playing 29 games averaging 11.7ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 77.5%. As a rookie he played with the Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 54 games averaging 14.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 79.9%. He played NCAA basketball at three schools with S Florida from 2012-2014 playing 54 NCAA games, then had his break out season with Eastern Kentucky (NCAA) playing 30 games averaging 17.0ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.5% and finished at Fordham (NCAA) playing 31 games averaging 14.0ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 84.3%. He and germanhoops.com have teamed up for a diary from the BBL tournament in Munich

How were the first days in Munich. Is there anything you already hate about being holed up in a room by your self?

I don’t think it’s anything I hate about being in a room all by myself because I know and understand it’s for the safety of not only the players but everyone in the hotel. However, it would be nice if there was a bit more freedom for players.

The Crailsheim Merlins suffered a tough 89-78 loss to BG Goettingen. You usually never want to make excuses, but in this case was iut justified considering how many guys were missing and Dwayne Russell didn’t seem fit either?

There is no excuses in the loss we suffered against Goettingen. They played very well, they also have more of their core of the team from the season. Hats off to them and their team. Russell has been playing exceptionally well ALL year. It’s very difficult to play at the same speed and rhythm when you haven’t played in 3 months (4 months for me). I believe everybody knows how good our team was with guys like Aaron Jones, Quincy Ford, Jan and Jeremy Morgan we were a top 3 team with those guys, but that’s the past and now we’re focused on what’s now with new additions like Marvin and David who fits our system very well. It’s all about showing and maintaining our character to improve each and every day.

Crailsheim shot the ball well, rebounded well and had only 11 turnovers. What were the biggest problems on the defensive end?

We played a very good game against Goettingen they had 10 more free throws than us and we only went to the line 10 times the whole game which is very questionable, but we still had missed some good defensive opportunities to seal us the win.

How excited to play Munich again and try to get revenge for the 19 point loss. Do you have that we have nothing to lose mentality going in?

I have a winning mentality. No matter who we play, no matter what others think going into the game, my job as a person, player and teammate is to reassure the team that we are playing to win and we should have a winning mentality no matter who we’re are playing.

Do you feel like the awareness that the senseless death of George Floyd worldwide has gotten will be able to help fight racism in some way?

The George Floyd situation in America was very unfortunate and disgusting to witness on video. However, it isn’t just George Floyd this is just the tip of the iceberg of what’s been going on in America for years. Police brutality against blacks and racism has always been a major problem in America and has been ignored for years. I believe the protest throughout the world and support from ALL races have allowed people to realize that racism shouldn’t exist. We are all the same as human beings we just come in different races, shapes and sizes and we should except each other with how we came into this world.

Thanks Javontae for the chat

Sarandis Mastrogiannopoulos is a 22 year old 194cm point guard from Greece that played the last 2 seasons with GS Lavrio Aegean Cargo (A1) and this season played 20 games averaging 4.5ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.2apg. In the 2018-2019 season with GS Lavrio Aegean Cargo (A1) he played 23 games averaging 2.3ppg and also played 2 Fiba Europe Cup games. He began his career with AS Apollon Patras (A1) and played 45 Greek A-1 games. He chatted with germanhoops.com during the COVID-19 crisis. 

Hi Sarandis where are you at the moment and how is your current mood despite the world turmoil at the moment because of the out break of the Corona Virus?

I am currently in my hometown in Patras. I am in good health first of all meanwhile there is a concern about the state of covid-19

When you first heard about the Corona Virus did you ever think that it could have such an effect on the world?

At the end of January I heard about this virus for the first time. The truth is that, while I knew there had been pandemics in the past, I did not expect it to have such a dimension if one considers the progress of science today.

How did you experience the day to day life in Greece during the early Corona Virus outbreak? Did you see that corona effect on the culture there or was it not so much different happening in your day to day dealings?

I follow the measures of the experts and the government and during the quarantine I am home. My only way out was for my daily exercise to maintain my physical condition. There is a big difference in our daily life in Greece, if we consider that we live in a country that favors the climate of having an intense social life 

Did you become more aware about how you handle yourself in public in terms of shaking hands and not being in the line of fire with somebody coughing

Yes Definitely. I am much more careful with hygiene issues and I follow them meticulously

Basketball leagues have shut down all over Europe. How disappointed were you about this and not being able to finish the season?

The truth is that the season ended abruptly and unexpectedly. I am very disappointed about this because I could not continue to do what I love. But health is above everything .

Before leagues were shut down there was a BCL game in Bonn against AEK Athens and a Fiba Europe Cup game in Bayreuth without spectators in Germany. What is your overall opinion of playing a game without fans?

I think fans are a strong part of the game and that’s why it’s not a nice picture of empty stadiums for sports in general.

What have you learned about these tough times that has made you stronger as a person?

It has made me stronger, more conscientious and more in solidarity with my fellow human beings.

Will it be a big adjustment having to start 3 months earlier with workouts and basketball skill development? What will be the advantages and disadvantages of this?

It will definitely be difficult to adapt due to the great abstinence from active action. At the same time, however, we, the younger ones, are given the opportunity to improve on an individual level

The whole world economy is going to be affected including Polish basketball. How worried are you about the future of professional basketball. The next season will have many changes. How are you handling this mentally now not knowing what to expect?

The virus has influenced and will affect the world economy. Part of that is professional basketball. The next season is expected to be difficult both for the athletes and for everyone directly involved with basketball and sports generally

If you had to name another player besides guys from your team that you have been in most contact via Social Media who would it be?

I have maintained very good communication with several of my former teammates and we talk almost every day through social media

You began your basketball career with AS Apollon Patras (A1). Talk a little about your early life. Which players inspired you and to what NBA player would you compare your game best to?

I made my first basketball steps in the team of my neighborhood, AO Skagiopouleiou. At the age of 15 I went to Apollon Patras the most historical club in my hometown. From a young age I was a fan of Diamantidis Spanoulis and Papaloukas. Kyrie Irving is one of my favorite players and I would love for my game to evolve like his own

With AS Apollon Patras you played from 2015-2018 including with the junior teams. How important were these 3 years in your early basketball development. How do you feel did you grow as a player there?

It was important because I gained a lot of experience and images close to good players who helped me in the development of my game. I am glad that I grew up in such a historic team in my city and it helped a lot in the first steps of my professional career.

How key was experienced Greek point guard Nikos Argyropoulos for your early development? He played his 15th season and last season with Patros when you were only 17 years old. 

Nikos was and is my friend first. It is very important that young players are close to such good players with great careers as Nikos. He always supported and advised me and above all he inspired me with his hard work and consistency.

In your last season at AS Apollon Patras (A2, starting five) you had your break out season playing 31 games averaging 12.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 73.8%. What did you learn about yourself as a player that season?

My last year at A2 it was a developed year for me. It helped me gain more confidence and competitiveness and improve my weaknesses.

You were one of the team leaders at only 20 years of age. What was the most important thing that you game gained in this break out season?

It made me more mature and responsible in my game.

You were teammates with ex NBA and Euroleague player Alex Acker. Was he a guy that you wanted to have a special bond to? If so what do you feel could you gain most from his presence?

It is a blessing to be a teammate with such a great player with a career in the NBA and the Euroleague. Alex was friendly and familiar from the first moment and we immediately had a very good relationship. I was impressed by his professionalism, simplicity in his game and I was inspired by his quality technical characteristics.

You have played many games in your young career but was your 26 point game in the win against Papagou a memorable game so far in your career?

I remember this game because it gave me more confidence to have a similar continuity in the next games

You played the last two seasons with GS Lavrio Aegean Cargo (A1). How tough, but also beneficial was that first season? You had limited minutes, but were also teammates with very skilled guards like ex NBA player Doron Lamb and other guys like Zamal Nixon, AJ English, Brandon Young and William Buford. Was there one guy who’s game stood out most to you and where you tried to soak up most from from their game?

It was an adaptation year changing category but more difficult due to level. They were all notable players and each in his own way helped the team. Everyone had something special in their game and I was trying to get what suited me.

This season 2019-2020 you played 4 minutes more per game, but as usual had a lot of American guards on the squad.How tough is that day to day battle in practice with them? What do you feel does your game still need to have polished for you to be a Greek A starter?

The training every day was tough and they helped each other for the good of the team.

You had two solid games against top team Panathinaikos playing against great player Jimmer Fredette and Nick Calathes despite losing badly. Do these type of games where you play well give you the needed confidence to know that you can play against top competition?

When you can cope with the difficulties and demands of such a race, with hard work it is possible to reach a high

During a game do you take the time to observe how a guy like Nick Calathes operates? What is something that his games has that you would like to have?

It takes a lot of experience to understand the game of such a big one
player. I would love to have the opportunity to pass on to his teammates

What is the next step for you? You have always played in Greece. Would you consider playing in another country?

My goal is to improve every day and as a professional I want the best for myself

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced that reached the NBA?

Vassilis Spanoulis

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Acker, Dilllard, Lamb, McCollum, Hickey

Please produce your own personal NBA Mount Rushmore with 4 heads past or present?

Jordan, Kobe, Harden, Antetokoumpo

Where were you when you heard about the passing of Kobe Bryant? How much of an affect did he have on your basketball life?

I was at home when I found out about his loss and I really couldn’t realize it

What is your general opinion with the debate between who is greater Michael Jordan or Lebron James?

Both are among the best of all time and each has its own characteristics

What was the last movie that you saw?

Contratiempo

Thanks Sarandis for the chat.