Zamal Nixon is a 185cm guard from Brooklyn, New York that is a rookie playing in Germany for t Hertener Loewen (Germany-ProB). He played at Houston (NCAA) from 2007-2011. In his senior year, he played 30 games: 10.3ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.7apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 92.2%. Currently for Herten, he is averaging 24,3ppg, 2,9rpg and 6,9apg. He spoke to Eurobasket before their playoff series against TV Langen this weekend.

Herten is about to embark in the playoffs this weekend against TV Langen. How excited are you about this challenge?

Im very excited about this weekend we have a really good team and were playing well so i’m excited to see how far we can go in the playoffs 

Herten as the second seed is playing TV Langen the seventh seed. Herten goes in as the favorite. TV Langen have nothing to lose. How has the team got ready not going into the series to relaxed?

We respect Langen and we know it isn’t going to be an easy series, so our level of respect for them alone will have us ready to play and not go into the series relaxed 

Herten finished the season with a three game winning streak. What does the team still need to work on to get even better throughout the playoffs?

We need to keep getting better defensively and keep getting better at executing our plays offensively 

TV Langen have 2 strong scoring Americans with Nathan Drury and Luke Fitzgerald. What will be key to winning this series?

The key to winning the series will be containing those two defensively, and if we can throw them off their game we should be fine

You came very late to the team. Were you surprised that it took so long to find a professional team despite a solid senior year at Houston?

No I wasn’t surprised people already warned me how tough it was going to be getting a job overseas for this season, so I just had to stay ready until my opportunity came

You have ate up the PRO B. Is the PRO A the next step for you?

I can’t say whats next right now all I can do is focus on finishing up this season strong, and after that i’ll see what opportunities presents its self 

Was it a bit shock for you going to the PRO B and seeing things on the court a bit easier than in the NCAA?

Yeah it was kind of a surprise but there is also a lot of good talent in this league as well

How important has the young German Vincent Kittman been for the team? What do you like most about his game?

Vince is a really good player, and he’s helped the team out a lot. I think his strengths are the energy he plays the game with, and he ability to rebound the basketball 

What is your fondest memory of Q Calhoun at Houston who is having a solid career in Poland now?

my fondest memories of Q would have to be his athleticism. He could always turn a bad ally oop pass into a spectacular play 

What are your early 2012 NCAA Final 4 picks?

Duke, Kentucky, Missouri, & Syracuse 

Who was the best player that you played against in the NCAA that might be in the NBA now?

The best player would have to be Derrick Rose, he didn’t have his best games against my school, but nobody else i’ve played against is having the type of success that he is right now.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last movie I watched was Final destination 5. I watched it last night. 

Thanks Zamal for the chat. 

It was mid August when BBL team Fraport Skyliners and Pro A squad MLP Academics laced them up for their first pre season game in the BCM training facility in Frankfurt. For someone who didn´t know anything about the team and players and was a neutral spectator, it wouldn´t have taken long to figure out who each team´s best player was. On the Frankfurt side it is without a doubt the captain, Skyliner legend, Mr energizer, Mr freak athlete who would have earned his bread in the NBA had it been a defensive league, the guy everyone calls Tez Quantez Robertson. He fills up the stat sheet like a mini Westbrook and despite turning 35 this December still plays like he is 27-28 years old and has the motor of a young buck. He learned his basketball trade at the well known Auburn University and granted there have been some great players that have come out of that institution that made it to the NBA like a Marquis Daniels, but no one more well known than Sir Charles Barkley. Tez would probably fire out the name Barkley when asked who the greatest Auburn player was quicker than he can blurt out his standard line “whats going on”. While on the other side of the court with the MLP Academics it was Adam Eberhard on this day. Hardcore Heidelberg fans could start a debate with Shy Ely talking the honors, but on this day the American couldn´t hit the ocean while Eberhard sparkled with fine all around play. If one would ask the Indiana native who the greatest player in the history of his school Bellarmine was, he wouldn´t hesitate a second to answer the name Braydon Hobbs. Even if Hobbs was a Bellarmine great that won two GLVC titles and the NCAA 2 championship, he didn´t join the best leagues or best teams right away, but had to pay his dues in Spain and Hungry before making the jump to Germany which he has called home since 2014. His climb up the ladder continued as he had to prove himself again in the Pro A with Nurnberg and then played well with non playoff team Giessen and then made another leap playing for playoff team ratiopharm Ulm. He reached the peak in 2017 joining famous German brand team FC Bayern Munich where he won three titles. One could argue who had the better Bellarmine career Eberhard who won three GLVC tournaments, or Hobbs who won two GLVC titles, but also won the very coveted NCAA 2 title. Now Eberhard has the chance to make a name for himself in Germany the way Hobbs has. Braydon Hobbs has been a very important figure in his development at Bellarmine and will surely continue as he makes his way through the professional ranks. “Braydon has been a role model of mine since before I got to bellarmine. I have been compared to him since my freshman year and being able to get to know him and work out with him has only increased the level of help that he can give me. He is someone that I can talk to and ask questions and the path he has taken is a huge motivation for me”, warned Adam Eberhard.

                Adam Eberhard was born in Evansville, Indiana and got his first basketball experience at Francis Joseph Reitz Memorial High School. He began to attend Bellarmine in 2015 and as a freshman played 30 games averaging 7.0ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 63.2%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 70.0%. He averaged 18,5 minutes per game and scored in double figures in six games including 17 points in a 78-50 pounding of Illinois-Springfield and 16 points and 9 boards in his first college game in a 89-79 victory against Northwood. The GLVC run ended in the semi against Lewis. He made a huge jump in his sophomore season playing 28 games averaging 17.0ppg, 7.8rpg, 4.2apg, FGP: 64.7%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 87.4%. He scored in double figures in 27 games and had 21 points or more nine times including a 30 point explosion in a 103-96 win against Quincy and then hit them again with 27 points in a 93-64 drubbing. He won his first GLVC title gaining MVP honors. After leading the team as a freshman with 63% from the field, he did again in his second season at 59%. His junior season was again a success as he played 32 games averaging 14.3ppg, 7.0rpg, 4.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 52.5%, FT: 81.8%. He scored in double figures in 26 games including a 24 point game against Wisconsin-Parkside and a 22 point effort against Maryville MO. Again he helped the school win their second consecutive GLVC title beating Truman State 75-61 as he took off with 21 points, 15 boards and 6 dimes recording his second MVP title. On top of that he demonstrated his fearless shooting from outside at 52%. In his senior year he played 33 games averaging 17.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 4.5apg, FGP: 59.5%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 83.9%. He scored in double figures in 28 games and scored 22 points or more 10 times. He hit Rockhurst for 33 points and Northwood and Findlay OH for 30 points apiece. He helped win his third GLVC tournament over Drury 65-48 while registering 8 points and 5 dimes. He stayed neutral about which GLVC title was the sweetest. “Making it to the final four was the sweetest moment of my college career. I cherished every season at Bellarmine because of the fantastic teammates I had”, warned Adam Eberhard. In his four year career he played 123 NCAA 2 games and scored in double figures in 86 games and had so many great games, but there is one game that he remembers very fondly even if he didn´t produce 30 points. “My most memorable game was against Findlay my sophomore year in the regional championship. I did not have my best game, but we won the regional championship and advanced to the elite 8”, stressed Adam Eberhard. Hard work and great work ethic helped the American have success at Bellarmine, but he was also directed in the right direction for four years and helped by head coach Scott Davenport.  “Coach Davenport is a great teacher of the game. I feel that I am ready to take on any challenge that is thrown at me because of him. Over my four years he has taught me how to overcome any challenge and that hard work solves every problem”, warned Adam Eberhard.

                After a stellar four year career at Bellarmine, Eberhard was excited and ready for the next challenge in the summer of 2019 as he embarked on seeking the right professional fit. The American who lists Braydon Hobbs and Tarain Sullivan as his toughest covers had the luxury of signing his first professional contract with German Pro A team MLP Academics Heidelberg on the beach. As he was looking for the right club for his first professional season he already had his eye on the country to possibly begin his professional career in. “I know a lot about the German basketball leagues because I’ve been following it for a few years. Vance Hall, Evan McGaughey, and Braydon Hobbs are all close friends of mine that have played in Germany so I have talked with them about it in depth and have been following it for a while now”; stressed Adam Eberhard. Hobbs made the decision making  a lot easier giving him the right advice in that it was important to find the right fit and best situation for him. With the MLP Academics, he definitely found exactly the team he was searching for. At the end of the day two vital components with the club´s will to win games and wanting to achieve the maximum was what lured him to the beautiful city on the Neckar river that has the famous castle. “Winning is very important to me. I won a lot in college and I’m not a fan of losing. After watching a few games of MLP from last season I quickly got the feel that this was a winning culture and was something I wanted to be a part of”, warned Adam Eberhard. The last missing piece for Eberhard to make his move to Heidelberg perfect was knowing that he would have the most influential and smartest head coach to help him make his start as a professional with Frenki Ignatovic. “I think Frenki will be great for me in terms of my growth as a player and a person. Anytime I can learn from someone with a lot of basketball knowledge I want to jump on that opportunity”, warned Adam Eberhard.

                Now the question will be how well will Adam Eberhard make the adjustment from the NCAA 2 to the very competitive Pro A league. When Hobbs arrived in Germany in 2014, he also began his career in Germany in the Pro A with Nurnberg averaging 11.9ppg, 4.1rpg, Assists-4(5.9apg), Steals-2(1.9spg), FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT: 82.4%. The only difference was that Hobbs was in his third professional season while Eberhard is a rookie. The American is a 203cm forward and has that modern forward mold where versatility could easily be his middle name. He is a basketball Junkie and it´s really hard to find just one NBA player where one could compare his game too. Instead he likes to look at the games of three players. He watches the NBA each night so being able to narrow it down wasn´t complicated. “I try to model my inside game from Nikola Vucevic of the Magic and my passing from Jokic and Lebron”, added Adam Eberhard. The American who lists the usual three suspects of Michael Jordan, Lebron James and Magic Johnson on his NBA Rushmore, but also lists Boston Celtic legend Larry Bird  as the fourth and without even mentioning it must have watched film on Larry Bird´s breathtaking passing skills. “My game is a little bit different from a normal power forward. I feel very comfortable on the perimeter and especially shooting the ball from all levels. I feel my best trait is passing the ball and creating for others. I hope to be able to take bigger power forwards off the dribble and create open shots for my teammates. I get more pleasure out of an assist than I do a basket”, warned Adam Eberhard. It will be interesting to see how well he shoots as a rookie as he will be hungry of improving off his poor senior season of 29% after lighting up arena´s as a junior and senior at 43% and 52%. “The shooting percentage as a senior was very disappointing. I’m not one to make excuses for anything. I did have a back injury that I played through for two months that really effected my play and stats. I’m fully recovered from that and expect to get back to shooting an extremely high percentage from three”, expressed Adam Eberhard. He didn´t only work on his three point shooting this summer, but also on another key area. “I worked on my quickness. I feel as though I can create mismatches against a bigger, slower power forward in this league while still being able to guard them on the other end”, commented Adam Eberhard. At Bellarmine he usually filled the stat sheet like a Quantez Robertson does in Frankfurt and was close to triple doubles, but doesn´t feel pressure or isn´t worried about having to do this as a rookie.” I hope to be able to fill the stat sheet at this level. I’m more concerned with winning games than putting up stats. Whatever my team needs me to do to help win, that’s what I plan on doing”, warned Adam Eberhard. It sounds like he stole that quote from a Braydon Hobbs interview, because when you go to Bellarmine you just can´t get around wanting to always win, but you actually do it on a regular basis.

Greg Logins is a 31 year old 206cm forward from Sodus, New York that began his basketball career with Canisius (NCAA) and is entering his ninth professional season and third in Germany. After playing with Chemnitz and the Hamburg Towers, he will strap on the Bayer Giants Leverkusen jersey this upcoming season. His experience has also brought him to Finland where he played parts of three seasons as well as Mexico, Morocco, Japan, Israel and Argentina. Last season he played with Team FOG Naestved (Denmark-BasketLigaen) playing 11 games averaging 9.8ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 47.4%, FT: 80.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about basketball.

Greg thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how have you been enjoying your summer best?

Hello, thanks for the interview. Right now, I am back in New York, visiting my family, enjoying some time, and training hard for this upcoming season. I am enjoying the summer without stress, because this is the first time in my career, that I have signed with a team this early, end of May, and it feels good to know where I am heading.

After a season in Denmark, you are back in Germany with a third team the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. Did you get homesick from Germany your home away from home?

I wanted to be placed back in Germany. I love the country a lot, and also, it is a league that I am well recognized and I am familiar with. With playing 2 seasons already in Germany, it will feel good to suite up again, but with Leverkusen.

What did you miss the most about the German culture and it’s basketball?

The thing I miss most about the culture, is that life is easy, and I feel like I have adapted to people quicker. Basketball wise, I miss the fans. Germany has some great fans, and where I am about to play this season, I hear the fans are unbelievably great and I am very excited.

Was one of the reasons why you came back the fact that you had so much success in Germany and was so consistent?

Yes I would say that. I was put in good situations to be able to be consistent for the most part.

The last team that you played for in Germany was the Hamburg Towers. Are you a bit sad that you hadn’t stayed in Hamburg last season and been a part of the massive success of the club?

I am not sad, but it would have been cool to be a part of that success. They deserve it. The Towers have been a hard working growing organization, and with being a part of it two years ago, it was special for me. With them winning the chip this year, I salute to them for grinding and getting it done.

Congrats on signing with the winningest BBL team of all-time Bayer Giants Leverkusen who just moved up from the Pro B to the Pro A. What do you know about the rich history of the club that dominated the early 90’s in the BBL?

Thanks for the congrats. I think it’s cool to be a part of a club that has so much history. With them winning the Pro B last year and with a great record, I think it is going to draw more noise for the city/fans as we compete in the Pro A. I’ve researched a bit about the club before signing, and I am impressed about everything.

Head coach Hansi Gnad is really high on your abilities. What was the deciding factor for you that made you chose to come back to Germany and play for them?

Yes, I am excited to play for him and give my all in every way possible. As everyone’s seen my face in the league for some time, they know what I am capable of doing and my abilities as a player. The deciding factor of me coming back to Germany, was to just be back and playing for a good team in a good situation, and I feel Leverkusen is it.

How excited are you to be playing with 2019 Pro B player of the year Nick Hornsby? You guys will be a very strong duo at the forward position. Does his talent and great ability motivate you extra for the upcoming season having a guy around that will always push you?

Hats off to Nick. It explains its self of how hard and talented he is, to become POY. I’m highly excited to play with him and become a dangerous duo. With my motivation and drive and I’m sure his is high also, we will feed it off to the team, and become a collectively unique team.

What will you be your main goals concerning your game this season? You are now in your thirties. Because of your experience, do you expect even more success from your game than say 2-3 years ago where you had less experience?

My main goal is to just do what I do. Play my game, rebound for us, and run the floor to create for others. I am in my thirties, but the way I train, and find new scenarios to keep my motor going, I will be just fine. I do expect more than previous years. I’m older, wiser, and have a lot more experience.

Last season you played with Team FOG Naestved (Denmark-BasketLigaen) playing11 games averaging 9.8ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 47.4%, FT: 80.0%. How do you feel are you a better player now than when you played with the Hamburg Towers?

Of course each year I still continue to learn and improve. You can never stop doing those things. I just feel on different teams, sometimes you have different roles. But as a professional, you just have to do your demands the best you can. Denmark and Hamburg I played two different styles, so that’s why it’s different in ways.

You weren’t happy with your role in Hamburg as you didn’t have to do as much as in Chemnitz. What kind of role do you expect to have in Leverkusen and will the duo Logins/Hornsby allow you to have the role you want to have?

In Hamburg, I did have a role. It was something I had to try to accept and just do the best I could. Obviously in Chemnitz, my role was much bigger, and allowed me to showcase more what I could do. After speaking with coach, I’m sure he knows how to use his pieces right, and put us in the comfortable positions to be successful and do what we do best. Playing aside a guy like Nick, will just make it that much better. 

When you turned 30 you stated that you didn’t feel like you were in your prime. Do you feel like your prime is here now and what kind of player will the Bayer Giants Leverkusen fans witness this season?

I’m just a year older haha, but the way I train my body during the off-season, I still few amazing. I do not feel I have lost anything. I feel great. The fans of Leverkusen will see a hard working player, that is energetic, high positivity, and willing to do whatever to help the team win. 

In the last years you improved your perimeter game and foot work. How do you feel did your game improve in the last season in Denmark further?

Yes, I have worked more on my post and face up game. It’s always good to keep putting knew things in your overall package.

Your best scoring and rebounding games in the German Pro A were 29 points and 18 rebounds and 21 points and 19 boards against Rhondorf. What was your personal favorite and best game in the Pro A?

Those games were awesome. But my most favorite game was winning the game to go to the playoffs. The fans of Chemnitz went nuts because it was the first in a while. 

On what things on your game will you continue to work on most this summer as your grinding in the lab?

I’m working on a lot of face up game and attacking. 

Please name your best five teammates of all-time in no particular order?

Jon Williams
Ike Udonah
Josh Peppers
Virgil Matthews
Justin Williams
Brandon McKnight 

There has been a lot of hype around Zion Williamson. What has been your impression of him? Will he be one of the all-time greats or just another very good player in the NBA?

The kid is one of a kid. It is just amazing of how strong, and athletic he is, at that size. He is 280lbs, and jumps out of the gym. It is hard to say of how he will be in the NBA, and how he will adapt, but time will tell.

When all is said and done do you feel like Luka Doncic could become the greatest European ever to play in the NBA?

I don’t know about greatest, because I think Dirk has that title after his 20 years, but I believe he could be listed in the same category as Dirk, as being one of the greatest of all times.

What was the last movie that you saw

The Avengers

Thanks Greg for the chat 

Derylton Hill is a 25 year old 196cm forward from Palm Bay, Florida that will begin his second professional season and first in Germany with BBG Herford (Germany-Regionalliga).Last season as a rookie he played with the Raiders Basket Jarvenpaa (Finland-1st Division) playing 31 games: Score-2 (24.9ppg), Reb-2 (13.2rpg), 3.7apg, Steals-3 (3.0spg), FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 80.4% He began his basketball career at Potomac State (JUCO) playing 29 games averaging 14.9ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 53.7%, FT: 70.5%. He then moved to Wallace St. CC (JUCO) in 2015 playing 32 games averaging 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, FGP: 58.3%, FT: 57.9%. In 2016-2017 he moved to Ark.-Monticello (NCAA2) playing 28 games averaging 16.6ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 56.6%, FT: 74.9%. In his senior season at Ark.-Monticello (NCAA2) he played 31 games averaging 18.3ppg, 7.1rpg, 2.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 79.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about his basketball career.

Derylton thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

It’s a pleasure talking to you. I am in Palm Bay, Florida (my hometown) spending time with family. The summer has been great so far just working out and spending time with my sons

Congrats on signing with German Regionalliga team BBC Herford. After tearing up the second division in Finland, you have signed with a fourth division team in Germany. Does this make the chip on your shoulder a bit more heavy as you have to prove yourself again in your second professional season?

Thank you. I always have a chip on my shoulder. But signing with BBC will give me a chance to prove myself even more. I’m excited for this next journey with BBC.

What were the main reasons for choosing BBC Herford? What sold you on coming to Germany to ball in the fourth league?

One of the main reasons why I chose BBC is because of the opportunity they presented to me. Germany is a big market and I feel like this would be a great way to put my name out there

Last season as a rookie you helped lead the Raiders Basket Jarvenpaa (Finland-1st Division) into the first division the Korisliga. How big is your motivation and confidence that you can do it again now with BBC Herford?


I am pretty confident that with the help of my teammates we can make it to the playoffs. I am always motivated to become a better player and promote team work among one another so that we all win and perform as expected.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? Have you had friends or ex teammates that have balled in Germany?

I know Germany has a very competitive basketball market. I have not had any teammates who have played in Germany.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm forward that can fill up the stat sheet. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

If I had to compare my game to an NBA player I would say I play more like Draymond Green. You can definitely see how he plays with emotions and he gets teammates involved. He’s a well-rounded player on the court.

Your only 196cm, but are an amazing rebounder. Last season in Finland you hauled down more than 20 rebounds four times. You had 6 more rebounds than what you averaged in the JUCO or NCAA 2. How do you explain such a rapid rise in getting boards?

Rebounding is not skill to me it’s more of an effort. Who wants it more is how I look at it? It’s just a natural instinct to go after the ball.

In Finland you were given the nickname ‘The Tank’. Your a very robust and physical player. How important is your physicality for your success on the court?

I really didn’t know my nickname was ‘The Tank’ until my agent told me the other day. Haha. I played football growing up and through high school so maybe that’s why I’m so physical. Physicality has a big impact on my game that’s just how I play.

You also have displayed excellent leadership qualities. Is this something that you have always had as a player or something that you picked up more recently?

I have always been a leader but since I played in college I have become a more vocal leader. There is no ‘I’ in team so I just try to encourage my teammates and myself to stay focused and grind harder. We don’t always win but you can’t sit around and dwell on it. Pick yourself up and go harder the next time.

You took no three’s as a junior, but have increased your attempts from outside the last two seasons. Will you continue to become more of an outside threat as you continue to move up the ranks as a professional?

Yes. I’ve been putting in more work in the gym. Consistency is key.

Last season you played with the Raiders Basket Jarvenpaa (Finland-1st Division) playing 31 games: Score-2 (24.9ppg), Reb-2 (13.2rpg), 3.7apg, Steals-3 (3.0spg), FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 80.4%.There are many guys that will have played 10 or more seasons and never won a title. How enjoyable and challenging was your rookie season?

I can definitely it say it was blessing and a great opportunity to play for the Raiders. The most challenging part was when we lost a few games back to back. I felt so much pressure because I was a captain and an American. After we played Lathi and we beat them that’s when we got on a winning streak

How important was it for you having the only other American Jordan Jacks on the team? You guys were a rebounding force averaging 23 rebounds apiece.

It was very important because I didn’t feel all the pressure if I didn’t get a rebound. I know if I lacked in rebounding I could count on Jack.

You had many great games as a rookie, but which was the most memorable? Possibly your 40 point explosion against Ura Basket 2 or netting 21 points in the title win over Tapiolan Honka?

Most memorable game is win over the Tapiolan Honka because we won the championship and did it on our home court.

In four seasons you played for three schools with Potomac State (JUCO), Wallace St. CC (JUCO) and Ark.-Monticello NCAA2). How important was having this experience for your early development as a player?

I was able to learn something from all three schools. They all have a different coaching style so it really opened my eyes as a player. I don’t regret the experience because I gained something from every school.

Often a player will play a season or two at a JUCO school before moving up. You played two seasons in the JUCO, but for two different teams with Potomac State (JUCO) and Wallace St. CC (JUCO). Why did you do this and what was your fondest moment in these two years?

I attended two Juco’s because at the time my son was still young so I moved closer to home. I also had a better opportunity attending Wallace because it was a Division 1 Juco.

You then played two years with Ark.-Monticello (NCAA2) reaching two GAC tournament finals. Despite not winning a title there, how memorable was your time there?

It was a memorable experience. It was challenging at first because we had very big shoes to fill coming up off a losing streak. With the help of my teammates we were able to turn that losing streak into a winning streak. I definitely built a bond with my teammates and formed some lifelong friendships.

How did you become a better player after two years at Ark.-Monticello (NCAA2)? What part of your game do you feel grew the most there in that time?

I became a better player after having the green light from Coach Tolin to play my game. I was able to be the floor general on the court. Also, coach was very open-minded and listened to any suggestions or ideas his players had. During my time at Monticello I improved on free throws, became a more vocal leader, and a finesse player ( not playing bully ball)

You had many great games at Ark.-Monticello (NCAA2), but was your 32 point explosion over Harding one of your most memorable?

Yes! That was a very memorable game. If I recall that was my highest scoring game.

How did head coach Kyle Tolin groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

His saying stuck with me the most after a good practice he would say ‘I put money in the bank today’ which means showing up to practice matters. You have to put in work to get good results. His coaching style and pushing me to my full potential also helped me become the player I am today.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Cobe Goosby?

Haha. We both had our days but it’s safe to say some days I would win and some days COBE would win. But for sure we helped each other improve our game.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the JUCO, NCAA 2 or anywhere that has made it to the NBA?

Devin Booker. He was really crafty, quick, and can shoot the lights out the gym.

Please name your five best teammates of all-time?

Haha. That’s a tough question, I have too many to name.

The hype of Kawhi Leonard has been huge. Where in your opinion does he rank now with the best players in the NBA?

Kawhi ranks in the top 3.

Please name your personal NBA Rushmore. Which 4 heads past or present would you choose?


Lebron James Michael Jordan Kobe Bryant Kevin Durant

What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James?

Lebron James just because I grew up during Lebron’s time. Lebron is my favorite player.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Pets 2.

Thanks Derylton for the chat

Sven Stammberger is a 198cm forward from Halifax, Canada and also has the German citizenship and will be playing his rookie season in Germany for Pro A team Walter Tigers Tuebingen. He played at Dalhousie University (CIS) from 2012-2018 playing a total of 97 games. He ended his career there as a senior playing 20 games averaging 18.4ppg, 8.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 85.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about his basketball career.

Sven thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been going?

Hi Miles! Currently, I am at my home in Halifax, Nova Scotia. I moved here in grade ten and went to high school and university at the local Dalhousie. My summer has been going well, we are finally getting some summer weather now in early June. I have been focused on finishing my degree and training to get ready for the upcoming season and get back in game shape.

You finished your college playing career in 2018 at Dalhousie University. In the last year you completed the semester in the Corporate Residency MBA program and also helped coach the woman’s team. How important was it having this year off from basketball?

I would argue that the year off playing competitive basketball was difficult for me, but important in different ways. It emphasized my desire to play professionally because I didn’t want to hang up the sneakers quite yet and stay on the sidelines. I also had the opportunity to go on an exchange semester in Denmark which I would never have had the chance to do if I was playing this past year. I think that experience was very valuable and something I won’t forget. Helping coach the women’s team at Dalhousie this past year was really nice for me to stay involved with the varsity teams at Dalhousie and gave me the chance to give back some of the stuff that I had learned over the years. 

Congrats on signing with German Pro A team Tigers Tuebingen. Were you on the radar of German teams or was it more the good connections that your agent Matt Slan had that was vital for you getting the job with the Tigers?

Even though I grew up in Germany and my mother played professionally for many years I do not have a strong connection with any teams anymore. Matt was a great help in navigating my first year going pro. It was really helpful to have someone that knew coaches and teams in the German leagues to help me gauge the situation. I am really happy and excited to start off in Tuebingen. It looks like a nice place.

You moved to Canada when you were 9 years old and lived there for 15 years. How Canadian did you get in those 15 years and what is your relationship to the German culture now as you return back to Germany?

I think both me and my sister have a pretty even connection to both places. I remember growing up we would always cheer for both countries at the Olympics and watching the German team win the World Cup in Brazil in 2014 gave us a special feeling. However, after 15 years living in Canada I would say that culturally I am more Canadian, but I am excited to rekindle that connection with Germany.

What kind of relationship did you have with Germany in the last 15 years? Did you ever return back to Germany and were you able to keep your German language alive?

I have been back to Germany many times since I moved away. Mostly in the summers to visit with friends and relatives. I can still speak German; however, my vocabulary is not as large as it should be, due to my leaving Germany after grade three. Within a few months of moving to Canada I would speak English almost all the time. I still speak German with my Omi in Germany and my father every so often. Usually it takes me a few weeks immersed in the language to feel fully comfortable speaking German again. 

You practiced with a BBL team in 2013/2014. What kind of experience was that and how do you feel are you a better player today than you were then?

A good family friend of ours, and former assistant coach with my mother’s team Mathias Fischer, was coaching the Telekom Baskets Bonn that year and he invited me to train with them for a couple weeks during the training camp in August. I was just coming off my first year playing at Dalhousie and had suffered a broken wrist resulting in me missing the second half of the season. The opportunity to train with the professional athletes was amazing because it really got me ready for our team’s training camp and bumped me into the starting lineup from only playing 5 minutes per game the year before. It also gave me the experience of seeing what level the pros were playing at and where I had to get, to make that transition to the pro game myself. 

You signed with the Tigers Tuebingen. What were the main reasons for signing with the Tigers Tuebingen? How vital was head coach Doug Spradley in helping make your decision easier?

It’s a team that has recently played in the BBL so they know what it takes to get there. It is a nice city and area to live in. I had some good conversations with Doug and liked what his vision for the team was. I thought I would fit in well that way. Ultimately I signed with the Tigers because I thought the team gave me a good opportunity to start my career and that they valued what I brought to the court. 

You had a very productive career in Canada showing your versatility. How confident are you that you will be able to make an impact at the Pro A level?

I am a competitor who always works hard and fights for his team. I am confident that I can make an impact at this level. I came out of high school unrecruited and hardly played my first years before many successful years playing at Dal culminating in an All-Canadian nod in my senior year. All that is because of my work ethic and ability to learn from players better than myself. 

You will be teammates with Canadian Tanner Graham who you played against once in a pre-season game in 2017. He is a versatile forward like yourself. How do you feel will you two guys compliment each other best on the court?

I am excited to play with him next year. We got to know each other a bit in the last year. It is always good to have a teammate to compete with because it makes both players better. I think Tanner can be that player for me. I love playing one on one and can’t wait to make up for that pre-season game where his team beat ours. But on the court, he is a great player who plays very smart and has great athleticism and those kind of players are always fun to play with.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a versatile 198cm forward that can do a bit of everything. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I think generally it is pretty hard to compare yourself to anyone so I will give a shout-out to my former teammate Kashrell Lawrence who in our first year playing together always compared me to Danilo Gallinari. 

You grew as a defender in Canada at Dalhousie University. On what areas on the defensive end do you take most pride in when your helping your team stop the other team?

I think I take pride in being able to guard various positions. Our team defensive style at Dalhousie included a lot of switching and we were able to do that partly because we had players that could guard a wide range. We also would practice hard denial often, and it came in clutch for us a number of times when we were able to force turnovers in late game situations that led to late comeback victories. 

Now as you start your professional career, on what things in your game do you want to continue to grow as you battle in the Pro A?

I want to continue working on my shooting ability. In the recent analytical wave in basketball the three-point shot has become so much more popular so I think it is very important to be as automatic as possible from the three-point line. Additionally, I am working on using my three-point shooting ability to create breakdown situations going at the rim and trying to make the correct reads out of that, whether it be to keep attacking or kick to a teammate. 

You were voted as one of 8 of the most outstanding student athletes in the country. With being a guy that is well rounded, do you suspect to continue to be active and do usual things off the court when you are in Tuebingen?

Yes, I hope to be involved in the community when I arrive in Tuebingen. Those community service events are always more fun when you are doing things with friends, so I hope we can get some team things going together.

You won three AUS tournaments from 2015-2017. Which one was the sweetest?

That is a really difficult question because all three championships were sweet for different reasons. But our first victory was so unexpected and in each of the three games of the tournament, we were able to come back from a double-digit deficit in the second half, including a 17-point turnaround from late in the third in the championship game. This was also the year after we had missed playoffs and no one else in our conference really expected us to be good. Additionally, I was named to the tournament All-Star team which was really special because the year prior, I had been watching the playoffs with my broken wrist and didn’t expect to be an All-Star or even win the championship that very next year. 

You had many memorable games at Dalhousie like hitting UNB for 40 points or hitting St Francis X for 35 and 36 points back to back. Was one of these games your most memorable or was it another?

I definitely had a lot of fun games at Dalhousie and I will remember many of them for years to come. But my most memorable game came in the semi-finals of the playoffs during our final championship run. We were the number one seed but had been playing poorly and were down by 6 with 45 seconds to go. I still remember every single possession of those last 45 seconds where we forced three turnovers including one where I stole the ball and then slammed it down to take the lead. I remember barely being able to sleep that night because the emotions were still running high.

How did head coach Richard Plato grow and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Throughout our whole Dalhousie career, Coach Plato always would harp about the ‘little things’ and I think he really taught us how important all those ‘little things’ are. This would include things like boxing out, talking loudly during every possession, taking care of the ball and many more. He also is a great motivator and really places an emphasis on working hard which is the skill that I think got me the farthest in my career.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Alex Carson?

We have a very similar playing style so we often would have close one on one games. Mostly it just depended on who was feeling it more that day. 

What is your NBA Rushmore? Please select four heads old or new?

MJ, Lebron, Kareem, Magic

What is your general opinion of the never-ending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James?

I think it is so difficult to compare the two and that there will never be a definitive conclusion to that debate. There will always be people on either side, until another player comes along. At that point it will probably be a three headed debate then. If push comes to shove, I would probably choose Lebron, possibly because I’m young and never really got to appreciate MJ’s greatness, and partly because that performance he put up in the 2018 playoffs was legendary. He’s also had such longevity which I think is equally as impressive as all his other accomplishments. 

What is your fondest memory of Dirk Nowitzki growing up?

I definitely enjoyed watching him win a championship in 2011 but also when I was 14 I got to see him address the crowd and present awards at the U17 world championships in Hamburg when I was there watching. And recently I noticed from Instagram that my future teammate Besnik was a player on the Germany team during that championship which is a cool coincidence. 

What was the last movie that you saw?

I really like thrillers and sad movies. Not a fan of the superhero genre and may be the only person to not have seen Endgame lol. The last movie I watched was 21 Jump Street. A throwback! Funny movie though!

Thanks Sven for the chat.

Tags : SVEN STAMMBERGER, TIGERS TUEBINGEN, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Jahmere Howze is a 22 year old 201cm forward from Warrensville, Ohio that recently left the Iserlohn Kangaroos (Germany-ProB). He played college ball at three schools at Urbana (NCAA2), California, PA (NCAA2) and Virginia State (NCAA2). He showed his impressive consistency averaging in double figures in scoring in each season. In his senior year at California PA he played 33 games averaging 14.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 71.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career before his release..

Thanks Jahmere for talking to germanhoops.com. You signed your first professional contract last summer with German Pro B team Iserlohn. After having a stellar college career with three different schools how did you experience your first summer transfer period? Did you have ample offers?

My first summer transfer period was kind of rough because I didn’t know where I was going to go until I made the announcement that I was leaving. A lot of coaches starting contacting me and offering me right on the spot, which made it kind of hard to make a decision because a lot of the schools had pretty good teams as well as good education.

How thankful are of being signed with Iserlohn? They contemplated very long going with an experienced import or a young player with lot’s of potential and talent.

Very thankful for the opportunity. I’m ready to show them what I bring to the table and how determined I am to win and learn

What was the deciding moment where you knew that starting your professional season with Iserlohn would be the right step?

I knew it would be the right decision after talking with my dad and doing a little research on the country itself.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? Have you had any friends, former teammates or opponents gain experience playing in Germany?

Not necessarily friends but players like Trey Lewis and Seger Bonifant who I have played against and know of have signed to Teams in Germany. I honestly don’t know that much about the country but I’m always open to learning new things about the places I go

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a versatile 201cm forward that can do much on the court. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would compare my game to a young Lamar Odom.

Talk a bit about your offensive game. With the versatility that you possess would you be comfortable calling yourself a modern forward? Especially since you incorporated a three in your junior season.

I would consider myself a modern forward because of my ability to shoot the ball and drive the ball as well as my comfort level when it comes to handling the ball if need be

In your first two seasons in the NCAA 2 you attempted only 4 three’s, but in your last two years shot 101 three’s. How much fun is it having a three pointer in your arsenal and how has it helped your game develop in the last two years?

It’s very fun because it makes my game unpredictable. It makes me harder to guard.

At California, PA you shot 74 three’s averaging 27% and at Virginia State shot only 27 three’s at 37%. Was it shot selection that helped you register such a fine percentage from downtown?

Yes, it was shoot selection as well as me maturing as a player and knowing that I have a rhythm every time I make a shot. My entire summer I spent time finding that rhythm

One thing that really stands out is your amazing consistency that you had at three schools never averaging less than 14,1ppg and 5,4rpg. What do believe is your secret to always being able to produce well in different systems and different coaches?

Confidence has always been my drive. I always felt like I can compete with the best and no matter what coach I play under that is something that is instilled in me from the day I started playing sports period.

Do you ever ponder where you might be today had you played all four years at Urbana. What were the biggest advantages to having played at 3 schools as opposed to only one?

No, I haven’t really thought about what would’ve happened if I stayed at Urbana. Mainly because I only live life going forward, I can’t live my life thinking of the ‘what if’s’. But the biggest advantage were the different styles of coaching and competition. When I got to Virginia State I was so far ahead of some of the players mentally and the way I thought the game and didn’t just play it and as far as the competition, my first two years at Urbana was the most competitive. There were so many good 4 men in the conference. I had to bring my a game every night, but I was also learning from them with me being young and them having more experience than me.

You’re a guy that can do so much on the court, but do you feel is a hidden strength in your game that doesn’t always get noticed on the court?

Absolutely, I feel that my footwork often goes unnoticed because of my strength and ability to score in different way.

You began your college basketball career at Urbana (NCAA2) and put up big stats. How important were these two years in your basketball development and vital was head coach Rob Summers in you getting a quick feel of the NCAA2?


These two years were very important because I got to see how talented D2 players really were. Coach Summers was very hard on me as a freshman but I didn’t take it personally I knew he saw potential in me that a lot of coaches didn’t see so I accepted any challenge he threw at me and learned from it.

What memories do you have of the tough 98-92 loss against West Virginia State where you had a 38/11 game. Was this the first time where you knew that you be a beast at the NCAA 2 level?

No, It was just the beginning. I wasn’t as hype about the stats because we lost the game but after the game all I could remember me thinking is ‘only if I would’ve scored 45 points, we would’ve came out with the win’

After two strong years at Urbana, you then decided to go to California, PA (NCAA2) playing 28 games averaging 16.6ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 70.6. Was it tough leaving Urbana a place where you exceled and why did you go?

No, it wasn’t tough. I actually fit right in at Cal PA. It felt more like home to me.

You had a massive like Kevin Love game scoring 44 points and hauling down 20 boards in the 105-94 season opening win over Glenville State. Is this a game you might watch again in times where things aren’t going well for extra motivation?

Yes, of course. That game always helps me in staying aggressive.

You then made another school change going to Virginia State (NCAA2) playing 33 games averaging 14.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 71.2%. In hindsight how blessed do you feel having made this decision which led to the CIAA Tournament Win?

I feel very blessed. I’m blessed for the coaches I had, blessed for the type of teammates I had because no matter the situation all they want to do is see me be the best I can be.

What will you always remember from the 77-66 CIAA tournament win where you steered 28 points and 12 rebounds over Shaw?

I will always remember the talk I had with my dad before the game. His advice to me was go out there and play the game you’ve been playing your entire life.

How did head coach Lonnie Blow give you the last important push in getting you prepared and groomed for a professional career?

The way coach Blow groomed me and got me ready for my professional career was rest me no matter how much I wanted to play.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Robel Teckle?

We never played but if we had of played I would’ve won.

Who was the toughest opponent that you played in the NCAA that is in the NBA or in Europe now

It has to be between Seger Bonifant and Amir Hinton.

Please list your five best teammates of all-time?


Terry Davis, Antwon Lillard, Justin Johnson, Andrew Corrum, and Mike Newton.

Please name your personal own NBA Rushmore. Which four heads would you pick past or present for your list?

LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Allen Iverson.

What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James?

LeBron is the better player in my opinion, although I never saw Michael Jordan play a full game with him at his worst. And I honestly think the competition is better now than it was when he played.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Glory Road

Thanks Jahmere for the chat.

Over the years seeing Holy Cross players battle in the German BBL have been as seldom as seeing a massive Boston Red Sox blowout of their arch rivals New York Yankees of 19-3 which happened this summer as the amount of e x Crusaders that have played in Germany could be picked off of one hand. Ok if my calculations are correct, it has been 6 players that have played in Germany, but only 5 in the BBL as Chris Rojik carved out a fine second Bundesliga career in Germany. The first guy to make it to Germany was Pat Elzie in 1984 playing with Giessen and future German legends like Michael Koch and Henning Harnisch and has been a coach since 1996 and is still active now coaching Pro B club Itzehoe Eagles since 2015. Then came the athletic and fine shooter Keith Simmons in 2008 who many remember as winning the 2009 BBL slam Dunk contest in Mannheim and later becoming a Banvit lifer in Turkey playing seven seasons. Timonthy Clifford came the same season as Simmons and played his rookie season with the Telekom Baskets Bonn playing 29 games, but averaged only 6,9 minutes and 1,9ppg and then retired. Then came the controlled and fine pass first guard Kevin Hamilton who gave the meaning playmaker and team first mentality a new name as he was in the top 4 in assists in the BBL in three of his five seasons in Germany. Finally it was Malcolm Miller who strapped on the Alba Berlin jersey in 2016-2017 and averaged 7,0ppg and 3,4rpg which was solid, but not mind boggling, but one did notice he had something special combining that unending athleticism with a good shot and sharp defense. He then signed with the Toronto Raptors and just ended his second season hoisting the first NBA title in Canada and the rest is history. So who is the next extra special basketball catch to come from Holy Cross and enrich the BBL? MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg head coach John Patrick has made it possible hauling in the next gem with Jehyve Floyd. He is the best example of a guy who had his difficulties at first at Holy Cross, but kept at it, continued to work hard and never give up and finished his last two seasons strong. But it wasn´t only his own determination and will to overcome all hardships, but also believed in the basketball process and took full advantage of what Holy Cross gave it´s students. Torey Thomas has never played in Germany, but was teammates at Holy Cross with Hamilton and Simmons and has carved out a fine professional career spanning 12 seasons and displaying his winner mentality winning titles in Poland, Cyprus, Macedonia and France is more than excited about Floyd starting his professional basketball career in Germany. “I definitely follow the Holy Cross program. I know that Jehyve is a dynamic player. He plays both sides of the ball well. He’s athletic and physical. Yes he definitely will be an impact player in the BBL as a rookie his upside is very high. It’s very vital for a player to play at Holy Cross because it is high IQ basketball. It is High Academics and a lot of film work besides the work you need to put in on the court. You learn important things on and off the court. Time management, you are amongst all the students it isn’t sectioned off to only athletes. You get a full experience at Holy Cross. On the court you get a unique big school feel because basketball is historical at Holy Cross”, warned Torey Thomas. “I’ve had the opportunity to meet Torey Thomas. He’s been a great mentor throughout this new process and has given me guidance that has been very beneficial. He’s been a pro for a long time so his legacy means a lot”, stressed Jehyve Floyd.

            Jehyve Floyd is a 22 year old 206cm forward that was born in Sayreville, New Jersey and grew up in Parlin, New Jersey. It isn´t necessarily his game what really stands out at first, but his name Jehyve which will surely take a few Germans sometime to pronounce correctly. “My name Jehyvé is the combination of Jehovah and Jireh which means “The Lord will provide”. Still to this day, people mispronounce it but it doesn’t bother me as much as it did growing up. I take pride in having a different name nowadays”, stressed jehyve Floyd. He played at Sayreville War Memorial High School averaging 17,5ppg and 10,7rpg in his senior year. He was Selected for his fine play as Sayreville’s Breakout Player of the Year in 2013-2014 and was also named to the Newark Star Ledger’s All-Low Post and All-Dunking teams.Even before he got to Holy Cross, he achieved greatness in that he became the first player from his high school to reach the NCAA and sign a professional basketball contract. “I’m really proud to be able to achieve this level of success. I remember dreaming about this moment back in high school and I’m glad I was able to make it turn into a reality. I hope I can be that role model for the younger generation to know that they can achieve whatever they put their minds to”, stressed Jehyve Floyd.

                The American who credits NBA player Cheick Diallo as being his toughest cover in the NCAA then commenced play at Holy Cross in 2015 and in his four year career played a total of 124 games. After being a big shot in high school where he dominated on the court, he first had to pay his dues in his first two seasons. He played a total of 58 NCAA games in his first two years, but never averaged more than 3,0ppg. Despite averaging only 9,7 minutes as a freshman, he did have highlights being ranked 11^th in blocks in the Patriot League and led the team in blocks in 10 games. He hit Loyola MD for 10 points and three boards while hitting all five shots. He also had his first experience playing in the NCAA tournament against #5 ranked Oregon posting 2 points, 4 rebounds and a block. “It was a great experience. I will always remember that I felt like I belonged”, stressed Jehyve Floyd. He also knew then that Oregon forward monster Jordan Bell who now plays for the Timberwolves was a special player. “. He was very athletic and played defense at an elite level”, stressed Jehyve Floyd. After coming from the bench as a freshman, he was able to start 3 games in his sophomore campaign and raise his minutes to 12,2. He continued to make strides on the defensive end ranking seventh in blocks in the Patriot league and led the team in blocks in 15 games. He shot a respectable 54,5% from the field and scored 8 points and had 2 rebounds against Rhode Island. Even if he had his moments in his first two years at Holy Cross any rigid competitor wouldn´t have been happy with his playing times. He knew that something had to change in his junior season. “After my sophomore year I gave myself an ultimatum that if I didn’t do well my junior year that I will have to figure out another profession. That drove me to work harder and present results on the court my junior year and it was only up from there”, expressed Jehyve Floyd.

                His true Holy Cross break out occurred in his junior year. His minutes rose from 12,2 to 30 and he played 30 games averaging 12.2ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.6apg, 2.2bpg, FGP: 66.9%, FT: 48.5%. He scored in double figures in 19 games and registered one double double. He had 22 points, 5 rebounds and 6 blocks in an exciting 60-57 victory over American and 20 points against Navy in a 81-65. Win. He suffered a tough 71-67 loss against Lehigh, but showed his amazing qualities of filling the stat sheet and showing versatility scoring 15 points, grabbing 9 rebounds, dishing out 4 assists, getting 6 blocks and 2 steals. He had so many achievements like hitting 20 field goals in a row and led the Patriot League in field goal percent and blocked shots, while being 11th in total rebounding, 11th in defensive rebounds and 18th in scoring. He also ranked fourth in the nation in field goal percent and 30th in blocked shots. He also snagged numerous awards like Patriot League Defensive Player of the Year, was chosen to third team All-Patriot League and to the Patriot League All-Defensive Team. He also received a Crusader Award as Holy Cross’ Male Athlete of the Year. In his senior year he averaged 31,1 minutes and played 33 games averaging 12.9ppg, 6.1rpg, 3.5apg, 2.4bpg, FGP: 67.4%, FT: 47.9%. He scored in double figures in 23 games and posted 3 double doubles. His best scoring games occurred against Lafayette and Bucknell where he poured in 25 points apiece. He had his way with Lafayette again scoring 24 points and hit Lehigh for 22 points. He didn´t score the most points in the win over Stony Brook, but showed that he is a stat filler with an incredible 10 point, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 blocks. “I think the Stony Brook game is the most memorable. It’s something about piling up blocks and assists that makes me pretty excited especially after a win”, added Jehyve Floyd. He Led the team in blocks 26 times, rebounding 18 times, assists 15 times, scoring 13 times and steals eight times.  He broke the school single-season records for field goal percentage and blocked shots and led the Patriot League in field goal percentage and blocked shots, while ranking seventh in offensive rebounds, eighth in overall rebounding and assists, ninth in assist-to-turnover ratio, 10th in defensive rebounds and 19th in scoring. He finished his senior year third in the nation in field goal percentage, and 12th in blocked shots. The American who would never lose a one on one in practice against teammate Matt Faw also wouldn´t have had the success that he had without the proper guidance form head coach Bill Carmody who once told him that being a special player comes with a lot of baggage something he witnessed at the start. “ Under Coach Carmody, I was able to see the game of basketball differently and my IQ grew tremendously. He was hard on me from the jump and it took me awhile to accept that. Once I understood, I took it with a better approach and just wanted to keep getting better. He stressed the importance of consistency”, stressed Jehyve Floyd. He was a shy guy when he got to Holy Cross, but after the growing pains, he erupted from his shell and became a leader something he will take to the pro ranks now. “I was able to use my success as a platform to show others how much hard work is important to growth and development”, added Jehyve Floyd.  He finished his career as the all-time Holy Cross and Patriot League leader with a .656 field goal percentage (417 of 636) and also ranked second all-time at Holy Cross in career blocked shots with 193 and fourth in career games played with 124.

            Now the versatile 206cm forward is ready for the new challenge of testing the professional ranks. This summer he took some time to rest at beautiful Myrtle beach in Sorth Carolina, was in Ludwigsburg to convince John Patrick and Co of his abilities, worked out at Holy Cross and also spent some valuable time in Boston with MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg assistant coach Joey King working on different drills the team uses to develop their players during the season. So what kind of a player will basketball Germany witness in the 2019-2020 season with Jehyve Floyd? It is always interesting to see which NBA player a player will compare his game to, but every so often you get a response like this. “I wouldn’t be able to compare myself to another NBA player, I leave it up to others to do that. . I like bigs who can pass the ball well and have a great feel for the game”, warned Jehyve Floyd. When dissecting his game the term modern forward comes to mind as he is a guy that can do it all knowing how to fill the stat sheet ,but he actually sees it a bit differently. “I don’t think I’m a modern forward. I think I’m an athletic player who has a great feel for the game who has a lot to learn to succeed at the pro level”, warned Jehyve Floyd. Also taking the three hasn´t been part of his game yet as he attempted only 3 in his NCAA career, but he knows that developing one will be vital for him to continue to rise up the basketball ladder. “I’m willing to do whatever that will allow me to become the best player I can be”, added Jehyve Floyd. Not only his offensive abilities will be on display in the BBL, but he should belong to the top blockers in the BBL as he averaged 2 per season in his last two in the NCAA. “ I think I’ve gotten a lot smarter on defense. Timing is very important on defense and I believe I was able to get better at blocking shots as time went on”, said Jehyve Floyd. A triple double isn´t rare if your named Russell Westbrook or Nikola Jocic, but achieving that in European basketball is difficult, but last season EWE Baskets Austrian terror Rashid Mahalbasic mastered it four times with points, rebounds and assists. Floyd demonstrated often that he can fill the stat sheet well, but also with blocks and one notices that the triple double is a fascinating concept for him. “I dream of doing whatever is possible to secure a win for my team. If that includes a triple double, I will definitely be satisfied”, stressed Jehyve Floyd. Even if he uped his assist average from 1,6 to 3,5 in his last few years, he still feels that people aren´t quite aware of his fine passing skills. “I think my passing separates me from other guys my size. I’ve always enjoyed passing the ball and I think it can allow me to get to the highest level”, warned Jehyve Floyd.

                So now the New Jersey native who lists Corey Taite, Rob Seraji,  Brian Gay, Malik Pressley and Michael Valentin as his five best teammates of all-time is ready to to start his professional career. He is very excited about the opportunity with the MHP Riesen and BBL and knows what ex Holy Cross player Malcom Miller was able to do after his second season in Germany. “ I’m really excited! It’s a dream come true and I’m blessed to have the opportunity! I don’t know much about Germany and basketball but I know this can be a very good situation for exposure for my main goal which is the NBA”, stressed Jehyve Floyd.  It was a no brainer for him choosing John Patrick and the Riesen as his first professional experience. “I chose the MHP Riesen because they gave me the best opportunity to develop into the best player I can be. They also were the first team to offer me a contract and it’s something about the first teams who see something in me that I like. Coach Patrick has a great resume of developing young guys and turning them into great pros”, warned Jehyve Floyd.  Not only Torey Thomas has a lot of confidence in the American, but he himself knows that making this next step won´t be easy, but one where he could thrive from. “I hope what I was able to do in college can translate to the professional level. I know it will be a process and it will take time to get accumulated with the transition”, added Jehyve Floyd. Even if Floyd who lists Lebron James. Shaq. Kobe Bryant. Allen Iverson as his four to grace the NBA Mount Rushmore is the most famous basketball player coming from Sayreville War Memorial High School, he isn´t the most famous alumnist. There are some people that have gone on to Hollywood to act with most notable Greg Evigan, but Rock star legend Jon Bon Jovi takes the cake as being the best known. Times do change and if you were to ask some Sayreville War Memorial High School students today, it would be an interesting poll to know how many don´t even know who he was. “Personally, I don’t understand the magnitude of Jon Bon Jovi. I’m sure kids knew about him, but I don’t think his history were important to the kids of my generation coming out of Sayreville”, stressed Jehyve Floyd. If Floyd can make an impact as a rookie and then continue to move up the basketball ranks like a Malcolm Miller, he will make a name like Bon Jovi in due time even more forgotten at his old high school as he carves his legacy as a professional basketball player.

Corey Raley-Ross is a 27 year old 193cm guard from Charlotte, North Carolina that has three professional seasons under his belt. Last season he played with C.B. Aridane (Spain-EBA) playing 30 games averaging 15.9ppg, 4.6rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 71.1% In the 2017-2018 season he played with CB Virgen de la Concha Innova Chef (Spain-EBA) playing 28 games averaging 18.3ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 41.4%,FT: 64.8%. As a rookie he played for TTU Korvpalliklubi Tallinn (Estonia-Alexela KML) playing 28 games averaging 6.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 30.4%,FT: 63.6%; and played 9 Baltic League games averaging 8.7ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 43.8%, 3PT: 11.1%, FT: 76.0%. He played at Buffalo (NCAA) from 2010-2014 playing 59 games. He had another chat with germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Corey thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

Thanks Miles for the opportunity. Currently, I’m in my hometown Charlotte, North Carolina visiting family and friends. My summer has been great! I’ve been doing a lot of preparing for this upcoming season.

The summer is winding down and your still unsigned. After playing in Estonia and in Spain for two seasons, you are a veteran in terms of the summer transfer market. How have you experienced this summer? Have the offers been meager or enough, but just not satisfying?

The transfer market has been moving favorable for me. I’ve been speaking with different clubs just about every week since August, I anticipate things picking up. 
Also, the offers thus far have been satisfying. They’re all grand opportunities. However, unlike previous years I want to be more mindful when choosing my next destination.

Did you take a different kind of approach in finding the right fit this summer or has it been the same old formula just with less success so far this time?

I’ve definitely taken a different approach. I’ve been very patient with deciding this time around. This gives me the chance to watch the transfer market a bit closer. It also gives me additional time to continue preparing mentally and physically. 

After Eintracht Stahnsdorf wasn’t a fit last season, how big is your urge to give it a shot in Germany? Do you have the need like you would like to prove something in the German basketball market?

Germany is a great country for sure, a country with strong professional leagues. Stahnsdorf is a great club and while they weren’t the right fit for me I’m certain that there are many other clubs in Germany that are. Do I have something to prove? Of course in every market, in time I believe that opportunity will present itself.

This summer you received some added experience with the Winston-Salem Wolves (ECBL). How was this time for you and talk a little about the quality of this league and it’s players?

This was great for me to stay in optimal shape for the season. The level of the players was solidthe league had some active professionals who kept the level high. I was able to play alongside my brother Brandis and with a coach (David Soloman) who has over 30 years of experience. This wasn’t just a great experience but a learning experience as well.

Let’s talk about last season. After starting the season with RSV Eintracht Stahnsdorf (Germany-Regionalliga) you then signed at C.B. Aridane (Spain-EBA) The team was up and down and lost more than it won. What was your summary of the season from a team standpoint?

My situation the last year was a major learning experience. Before signing with Aridane, I didn’t expect to play for three different coaches nor did I expect our roster to change so frequently. This greatly affected our team’s chemistry. Personally, these ups and downs challenged me to be resilient to changeand because of this I’m a better person and player.

How much fun was it playing with American Billy Mcodnald. He had had experience in Germany with Regionalliga teams Baskets Vilsbiburg and MTSV Friendsfactory Schwabing. Did you guys share stories about the Germany experience?

It was great playing alongside Billy. He’s one of the best athletes I know. We spoke a little about our experiences in Germany as we were in La Palma trying to create new ones.

You played 30 games averaging 15.9ppg, 4.6rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 71.1%. After playing your second season in the EBA, how do you feel did your game grow?

My game has grown considerably playing in EBA. Getting playing experience is always a plus. I really valued practice time since we would only play once per week. I would often fit in workouts before and after practices. Playing in Spain alone allowed me to growI was able to see a few ACB games live and also watch them as much as possible. 

You had a superb game in the 112-94 victory against Zentro Basket scoring 22 points on 6/7 shooting from the two point range and 3/3 from outside), grabbed 6 rebounds, dished out 9 dimes and had 5 steals. Is this one of those games where you showed the whole spectrum of your basketball abilities?

Yes I believe so! I was able to make an instant impact on the game with my defense and getting my teammates involved. Of course when doing those things I receive easy opportunities for myself. 

Your stats were solid, but dipped slightly in the scoring, rebounding and three point scoring. How would you personally rate your season there in comparison to your season with CB Virgen de la Concha Innova Chef (Spain-EBA) the season before where you averaged 18.3ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 64.8%?

My situation the previous was much different. I was asked to play more on the ball as opposed to this season. It was essentially a role reversal. 

Your three pointing was solid at 38.6%. In our last interview you stated that your mechanics are the same and shot selection and reps remain very important. Did you change anything up this summer when you continued to work on your shot?

This summer I really put an emphasis on extending my shooting range. I believe that this will open up the other dynamics of my game. 

On what other area’s of your game did you work on in the lab to continue to improve your game as you continue to move up the basketball ladder?

Firstly, my basketball intelligence! I’m constantly watching as much basketball as I can. I’ve paid lots of attention to the actions/sets of the teams in the World Cup. I’ve worked to improve my skill: shooting, footwork, ball-handling, touch. Lastly, I’ve worked to improve my strength and conditioning. Running hills can be very therapeutic. 

Please describe briefly why you could help any team in the world now with your basketball skills and help lead the team to success?

I believe I can help any team with my knowledge of the game, positive energy, athletic ability, defensive prowess; guarding 94 feet, defending multiple positions, play-making ability, shot-making ability, being accountable and by leading by example. 

How did you witness the amazing summer transfer period in the NBA. Teams like the Lakers, Clippers and Nets suddenly got very strong. Which of these three teams will have the biggest impact and success in the NBA best?

The NBA transfer market was very suspenseful. The dynamic of the NBA has once again changed with a lot of teams having once again two star players. I believe the Clippers will be the biggest problem for teams this upcoming season. They not only have stars but they have depth and a very versatile roster.

You have experienced first hand how the game is played in Europe. How well will Team USA do at the World Cup despite having lost so many super stars?

Team USA will do great! They don’t have NBA superstars but they still have the best collective group of players. I’m mostly curious to see what other teams will separate themselves from the rest

Can a guy like Kemba Walker as it’s best player elevate his game to a new level?

I believe so. Kemba is dynamic and has led a franchise his whole career. I think as a player he’s up for any task. 

What was the last movie that you saw?

You know this answer Miles Space Jam!!! 

Thanks Corey for the chat.

Xavier Ford is a 26 year old 203cm forward from Colorado Springs, Colorado that has four years of professional experience under his belt. He began his professional career with the Grand Rapids Drive (D-League) playing 38 games averaging 2.7ppg, 1.4rpg. In the 2016-2017 season he split time with three teams in Japan with the Earthfriends Tokyo Z (Japan-B League D2) playing 8 games averaging 11.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 42.0%, 3FGP: 14.3%, FT: 66.7%, in Dec.’16 moved to the Cyberdyne Ibaraki Robots (Japan-B League D2) playing 16 games averaging 19.3ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 38.7%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 72.4%, in Feb.’17 signed at Shinshu Brave Warriors Nagano (Japan-B League D2) playing 24 games averaging 7.4ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 39.1%, 3PT: 14.7%, FT: 76.6%. In the 2017-2018 season he began with AB Contern (Luxembourg-Total League) playing 20 games: Score-5 (25.0ppg), 10.8rpg, 1.1apg, Steals-3 (2.0spg), FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 21.4%, FT: 71.2%, in Feb.’18 moved to St. John’s Edge (Canada-NBL Canada) playing 14 games averaging 7.4ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 75.0%. Last season he played with the Kapfenberg Bulls (Austria-A Bundesliga) playing 24 games averaging 12.3ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 67.6%. Hee spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Xavier thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

I am currently in my home town Colorado Springs; my summer has been pretty eventful I’ve been training and coaching the youth from my neighborhood.

The summer is winding down and professional teams are slowly getting filled. You came in mid season to Austrian team the Kapfenberg Bulls (Austria-A Bundesliga) helping lead them to two titles and getting cup MVP. How can a guy like you not be signed yet?

I was fortunate enough to join a championship caliber organization, I learned a ton from Coach Mike Coffin, as you mentioned we won 2 titles and I won cup MVP. The feedback I’ve gotten thus far is my 3% which I find interesting because I am a great mid-range shooter/scorer, my size, athleticism, versatility ability to play and guard multiple positions. I’ve been working on different actions out of pick and pop, stationary, and shots off the move from the 3-point line to increase my percentages that way there’s no excuse. As a pro, you have to be honest with yourself and understand the weaknesses you have, next you must implement a plan to turn your weakness to a strength. I turned down some offers because it wasn’t smart for my career to take the deals. I see myself playing at the highest level in Europe and or the NBA, so I have to take the right steps to maximize my opportunity to achieve my ultimate goal. 

Why didn’t you just remain in a very good situation or was the idea of using that success to get an even better deal and play possibly in a higher league too enticing?

I had a great time in Kapfenberg, I felt like I had to ride the momentum and leave on a high note, as a player it’s not often you win a championship, cup and cup MVP in the same season, winning is hard at any level especially as a pro so I made the decision best for myself and career.

Now with the summer winding down and fewer spots available, what is your plan now in terms of finding that right fit?

My plan is to continue to work out and stay ready, I am confident that the right offer will come up, and when it does I will be ready to take full advantage of the opportunity give.

Explain in a few sentences why you could help any team in the world now?

I bring a winning mentality and toughness in many areas of the game, I take pride in things that don’t show up in the stat sheet. I love to defend and I can score with the best of them. I am an underrated passer an elite rebounder and athlete, can guard multiple positions extremely versatile. I am willing to do what it takes to win while being a great teammate.

Last season in Austria you averaged 12.3ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 67.6%. How content were you with the season and how would you compare the level and talent of players in the Bundesliga in Austria to the other leagues you played in in Japan and Luxemburg?

I arrived late in the season so I feel like I could have played better and showcased better percentages, the first month I was trying to find my rhythm, I believe that effected my 3 point percentage, I am a better shooter than my percentages, I hadn’t played a game in 10 months before arriving to Austria. The talent level in Austria was solid in my opinion. The talent level in Japan Austria and Luxemburg was about the same, each league had different things I had to adjust to. The league that had the most talent I played in was the NBA G League for sure.

How much of a pleasure was it playing with Elijah Wilson. Would you have won two titles without his services?
Playing with Elijah was great, he and I became real close as the season progressed, we would go to the gym and work on our game before and after practice, we definitely would not have won without him. He was dominant in the playoffs, his ability to shoot opened up driving lanes and mid-range opportunities for me because his man could not help off him

Two seasons ago you started the season with AB Contern (Luxembourg-Total League) playing 20 games: Score-5 (25.0ppg), 10.8rpg, 1.1apg, Steals-3 (2.0spg), FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 21.4%, FT: 71.2%. Did it at times feel like you were a man among boys?

Every time I step on the court I try and dominate on both ends of the floor, I was in a great rhythm Coach Franck allowed me to play my game and be extremely aggressive.

You had a massive 30/20 game in the manner of a Kevin Love in a tough 88-87 loss against Sparta. Did the loss lesson the joy of a great individual game?

I was extremely disappointed in that loss, yes I had a great game but I would prefer to win

You then finished the season with St. John’s Edge (Canada-NBL Canada) playing 14 games: 7.4ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 75.0%. In the last years whenever I have interviewed guys that have played in this league, many have stated it is a league on the rise. The talent level probably isn’t like the G-League, but talk a bit about your experiences in Canada.

I was in Canada I believe 3 months, my former college teammate Jarryn Skeete played for the team so it was like a reunion we made a good run and came up short in the finals

You had some great games when you got minutes scoring 25 points in a win against Halifax H, 24 points in 21 minutes in a victory against Niagara and 19 points in 18 minutes in a win against London. Your minutes were sporadic. You played less than 10 minutes in six other games. Why were your minutes so up an down considering when you did get a chance, you played very well.
Before I arrived, I believe the team was in second place in the standings, they put together a great first half of the season which set them up to be a number 1 or 2 seed in the playoffs, I arrived there mid-February, like you mentioned I had great games when I got minutes. As a coach, you tend to trust the guys who have been there the whole season, I believe that’s why my minutes were so sporadic. They were in a great place before I arrived so I understood the situation.

What kind of an experience was it having Ransford Brempong as a teammate?Here is a 37 year old that retired in 2010 only to come back in 2017 to resume his playing career. Did you guys have some nice battles in practice?

Rans was a great vet he brought a different perspective and approach to the game, he was a tough cover in practice because he was so active and mobile. I was impressed by his conditioning to be 37 years old, I learned a lot from him and how he approached the game on and off the court, and how to gain a mental edge over our opponent.

In your second professional season you split time with the Earthfriends Tokyo Z (Japan-B League D2) playing 8 games averaging 11.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 42.0%, 3FGP: 14.3%, FT: 66.7%, in Dec.’16 moved to the Cyberdyne Ibaraki Robots (Japan-B League D2) playing 16 game averaging 19.3ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 38.7%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 72.4%, in Feb.’17 signed at the Shinshu Brave Warriors Nagano (Japan-B League D2) playing 24 games averaging 7.4ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 39.1%, 3PT: 14.7%, FT: 76.6%. You put up great stats with your first two teams. How did you manage to play for three teams in one season?


My season in Japan was defiantly an up and down year, while with Earth Friends which was my first team I avg 19.3 ppg and 8.5rpg, The team decided it was best they release myself and my teammate Zach Andrews who was at the time leading the league in blocks and rebounds. I flew home and 2 days later I was contacted by the Ibaraki Robots, they wanted me to do a month try out before they signed me to an actual contract, I played 8 games with them the month of December they decide not to honor the contract after the trial period and went another direction. A few weeks later I was contacted by the Brave Warriors late January and I finished the remainder of the season with them. 

What was your wake up call to being an American in Japan where you knew that you were very far away from home?

The wakeup call came when I first landed in Japan and saw Japanese writing everywhere, and heard the language being spoken by the locals. One of the things that shocked me the most was when I got into a vehicle and saw the steering wheel was on the opposite side that I had been accustomed to seeing, that’s when it kicked in that I am no longer in America. 

In Japan you played mostly with Japanese players, but with the Cyberdyne Ibaraki Robots you were teammates with Rick Rickert who was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2008. Did you guys form a special relationship in the short time that you were teammates with so little other Americans around.

Rick was a great teammate and even better person, I learned a lot from him in my short stay. We would grab food after practice and discuss various topics from sports to life. 

As a rookie you played with the Grand Rapids Drive (D-League) playing 38 games averaging 2.7ppg, 1.4rpg. What kind of experience was this and talk a little about how the NBA always proves that it is a business first before being aware of how a player might feel about a decision?

The NBA D league helped me a ton with my overall game, I was around a ton of NBA talent which woke me up to what certain things are supposed to look like, it also put into perspective that I needed to get a lot better. In regards to the business aspect of the NBA is really no difference from any other work force, you have to be able to produce, politics are involved everywhere you go, so that aspect of the league was the last of my worries

Obviously in the G-League players come and go, but still how beneficial was it having so much talent around. You had big guys like Adonis Thomas and Henry Sims around. Were you able to pick up valuable pointers throughout the long season?

That year with the Drive we had one of the most talented teams in the league. I was fortunate enough to play with guys like Devin Ebanks (Los Angeles Lakers) Henry Sims (Philadelphia 76ers) Brandon Jennings (Detroit Pistons) Reggie Bullock (Pistons) Spencer Dinwiddie (Pistons) Lorenzo Brown (Minnesota Timberwolves) Branden Dawson (Los Angeles Clippers) Dahntay Jones (Cleveland Cavaliers) Adonis Thomas (pistons). Coach Otis Smits was just assigned the head coach of our team he was the general manager with the Orlando Magic the year prior, he too was drafted in the NBA back in the 1986 draft by the Denver Nuggets. He had a very high basketball IQ he taught me a ton. Our assistant coaches Dion Glover and Ryan Krueger had high basketball IQs as well. The common factor they all preached was that I needed to have an even kill mindset, never get too high or too low because it’s a long season and no matter how much I played, continue to work on my game.

How did a guy like the great Dahntay Jones who won an NCAA title with Duke and an NBA title with the Cleveland Cavaliers? How important was it having such an experienced player for a long stretch of the season?

Dahntay is a great dude, he was my roommate. I had never been around a NBA player off the court so I got a deeper look into preparation and routine it took to be able to sustain an elite level of play both physically and mentally I watched his preparation and level of consistent play throughout the season which led him to get called up by the Cleveland Cavilers and win a Championship alongside Lebron James. Watching him I learned to create a routine and stick to that agenda every single day. He showed me different tricks on defense, when he played with the Nuggets he played alongside Carmelo Anthony and had the assignment of guarding some of the best scores in the League, in the western conference finals he had to guard Kobe.

You played at Buffalo (NCAA) from 2011-2015. How tough were the first three seasons never averaging more than 4,0ppg? You had to wait your turn and had a strong senior season averaging 9,7ppg and 6,2rpg.

My first few years were defiantly tough, coming out of high school I avgeraged 27 ppg and 10 rbs per game, was a McDonalds all American nominee and was named as a 3rd team parade all-American. Coming into my freshman year I was ready to make an immediate impact but it obviously didn’t go that way. Over the years I just worked on my game and stayed in the gym. My big break came when Coach Hurley and his staff arrived! They instilled confidence in me and took my game to another level, the rest is history!

What was your fondest moment of winning the MAC tournament in 2015. How satisfying was the run and season being an important contributor to the success?

My fondest memory was holding up the championship trophy with my teammates, I was fortunate enough to be named to the all MAC tournament team and MAC Championship MVP, as I held the trophy’s I thought about all the ups and downs that led to that moment and the hard work the team showcased throughput the season. It felt amazing.

In your senior year you lost 72-51 to powerhouse Kentucky. You registered 2 blocks. Do you remember who you blocked and was it possibly a future NBA player?

I don’t remember who it was honestly

I believe there were 8 future NBA players on that team with Devin Booker, the Harrison brothers, Willie Cauley Stein and Karl Anthony Towns. What player at that time impressed you the most from that squad?

Devin Booker impressed me the most.

How did head coach Bobby Hurley groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Coach Hurley helped me out more than I can put into words, his basketball resume speakers for itself, he was dominant in high school, led his team too 2 national championships and four final 4 appearances. He showed me what it took to win and what it looks like. He and I would sit in his office discussing ways to take my game to another level, preparation was everything with him, endless skill work and film. You have to be tough to play for Hurley he held me accountable for any and everything. I was lucky to have him come when he did. He saved my college career. We won UB its first ever Championship and loss and close one to west Virginia in the NCAA tourney, made history.

Who won a one on one then and who would win today you or Javon Mccrea?

In college Javon won most of the one on one battles, today I would win.

Who has been the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA that is in the NBA or in Europe?

In summer runs I had to guard James Harden, he was obviously the best player I guarded during that time. But my G league teammate Devin Ebanks was extremely difficult to guard as well, in practice I used to get frustrated because he would score on so effortlessly. Great player and teammate I stole a lot of his moves.

Please list your five best teammates of all-time?
I have had to many great teammates to only name 5

Please name your personal own NBA Rushmore. Which four heads would you pick past or present for your list?

Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bill Russel, Magic Johnson 

What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James?

Michael Jordan is the greatest no question, Lebron is great but MJ is MJ

What was the last movie that you saw?

Spiderman Homecoming 

Thanks Xavier for the chat.

In pre season play in the German BBL, it is nothing unusual to see some of the young future prospects getting action as it is early and gives players the opportunity to get some valuable experience. In the first pre season game against the MLP Academics Heidelberg, the Fraport Skyliners did this giving new and ex FC Bayern Munich guard Bruno Vrcic ample minutes, while FC Bayern Munich battled American elite university Stanford and allowed young bucks Matej Rudan and Jason George to get minutes, but one has to remember this also happens when clubs are missing guys who are playing at an international tournament like the World Cup in China which is underway. The Fraport Skyliners also had many other young guys on the bench like Germans teenager Len Schoormann and 19 year old Aaron Kayser, but there was another young player who got sufficient minutes or is 23 years of age still young? Well compared to a 40 year old yes, but to a 17 or 18 year old no, but not necessarily a young prospect who has had NCAA experience. There was a young player on the court for Frankfurt who could easily have passed for a teammate of Len Schoorman with the U-19 team named Matt McQuaid. One could seriously have thought that he exited the wrong locker room and was playing with the wrong team, but he wasn´t. He definitely still has some gym time to do in the next years to get stronger and his more scrawney appearance and baby face helped bring his youthfulness into focus more. There are always guys that look younger than they look and one of the best examples was a kid by the name of Derek Raivio who came to Germany in 2007 as a 22 year old and when you saw him, he looked like he had just started high school and at times looked out of place with some of the older players, but he definitely had game. He had one big thing in common with McQuad in that he played at well known Gonzaga averaging 18,0ppg as a senior while McQuaid played at the prestigious Michigan State for Tom Izzo and averaged 9,9ppg as a senior. He may not have had the same scoring ending to his NCAA career like Raivio, but the American is a very skilled player. He may look like a kid, but has vital NCAA experience with a top school and top conference Big 10, so he has very much to offer. I wasn´t the only one who noticed the youthfulness of McQuaid, but so did captain and Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson. “When I first saw him, I didn´t think that he was as old as he was. I think teams will underestimate him at first and think he is weak and can´t play. Having teams think this will be a big strength of his. I didn´t think his ball screen IQ was so big at first, but it is. He is very mature on and off the court. I like how he is trying to learn and is always asking questions”, stressed ex Auburn forward Quantez Robertson. I couldn´t reach Derek Raivio, but got his brother Nik and he was amused by the questions about his brothers youthfulness. “Derek is a late bloomer just like my father”, said ex medi Bayreuth guard Nik Raivio. When talking about his youthfulness, you get the impression that it has been a topic that he has been confronted with more than once in his life. “I get baby face all the time”, smiled Matt McQuaid. Matt McQuaid has that youthfulness, but the versatile game that Nobody can afford to Underestimate.

                McQuaid is a 23 year old 193cm guard from Ducanville, Texas that is playing his rookie campaign with the Fraport Skyliners.  He began his basketball career at Duncanville High School that also produced ex NBA player Greg Ostertag of the Utah Jazz . If he ever would meet ex Skyliner Isaac Bonga, they could exchange Lebron stories, because both have been on the court with him. Ok so Bonga was his teammate with the LA Lakers, while McQuaid took part at the Lebron James skills academy, but had the pleasure of catching a Lebron lob and making the lay up. In his senior year at Duncanville High School, he was able to up his stats a bit from the previous year averaging 17.8ppg, 9rpg. He was able to improve his scoring and rebounding averages each season and shot 40% or better twice at Michigan State. He never averaged double figures in scoring, but came very close as a senior playing 36 games averaging 9.9ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 81.0%. He won two Big 10 tournaments including the 2019 version 65-60 over arch rival Michigan where he had a sensational 27 points on 7 three´s and reached the NCAA tournament each season and topped off his stellar career with a Final 4 visit losing to Texas Tech where he netted 12 points in the losing cause. Overall he had a positive 6-4 NCAA tournament record. The American is content with having had the opportunity to play at Michigan State and how his game developed further. “Being able to play at Michigan State really helped me become a good defender and really was important for helping my overall game”, stated Matt McQuaid. He was able to show his offensive spectrum in the massive 65-60 win over Michigan where he dropped 27 points and demonstrated just how lethal his shooting can be. “That was a tough game. Michigan was always leading and then my roommate Kyle Ahrens got hurt. It wasn´t just my effort of 27 points, but the whole team stepped up and rallied as a team. It was big winning the Big 10 final”, remembered Matt Mcquaid.It wasn´t only his hard work on the court and in the gym that helped him develop further as a player, but also the crucial guidance by Basketball Hall of fame head coach Tom Izzo who has been at Michigan State since 1995 and won the 2000 NCAA tournament, reached 8 NCAA Final 4´s and has produced countless NBA players like Draymond Green or Alan Anderson over thee years. “He taught me preparation. He is a guy that showed his love, passion and emotion for the game each day. You could feel it. He motivated you to get better. He is a great coach, but an even better person”, warned Matt Mcquaid. He won´t only remember his ex coach Izzo in the NCAA, but also 2019 #1 NBA draft Pick Zion Williamson who was the toughest beast he ever faced. “I was switched on to him in a game. He is huge. It was crazy”, smiled Matt McQuaid.

            The American got an early taste of the NBA playing NBA Summer League a few months ago with the Detroit Pistons where he did get into 4 games, but played only a disappointing and meager 8 minutes in total attempting two shots and pulling down a rebound. Despite not playing much and not being able to leave a real mark, he felt that the experience was worth it. “It was a good experience for me. I was able to learn more about the game and was around really talented guys. I was able to take a lot from the experience”, stated Matt McQuaid. He was also fortunate to have been reunited with ex Michigan State teammate 206cm forward Matt Costello who was a senior when he was a freshman. Costello may only be 26 years of age, but has seen the ropes having played in the NBA with the San Antonio Spurs, with two G-league organizations and in Italy and recently signed with Herbalife Gran Canaria (Spain ACB). McQuaid couldn´t have been more fortunate to be reunited again with his ex teammate. “It was great being teammates with him again. He was like a big brother and took care of me at Michigan State. He showed me how to correctly take care of my body”, stressed Matt McQuaid. The NBA might just be a tad to soon for the sniper. But with a few years more experience in Europe and also learning a different kind of basketball might just grant him another opportunity for the NBA down the road.

But that is why there is opportunity overseas to simply get better. He turned professional with the Fraport Skyliners in the very competitive easyCredit BBL belonging to the top 10 leagues in Europe. He has only been in Frankfurt a few weeks and quickly got a taste of how one celebrates as he witnessed the Fraport Skyliners 20 year anniversary. It was an extremely hot and muggy day where one really thought that one was locked in a unopenable Finish Sauna. With many activities in the city where fans could be involved and then nice food and dancing in the evening, the American was introduced to German culture, but there is still one German cuisine specialty that he hasn´t tasted yet. “I have gotten a good impression of Germany since I have been here. I´m getting used to the culture, food and people. So far it has been a cool experience. I haven´t tried Wiener Schnitzel yet, but that is definitely a topic I need to get into”, smiled Matt McQuaid. On the court the American is obviously getting adjusted to a new league and style and has shown flashes of brilliance. When I asked Fraport Skyliner captain Quantez Robertson which NBA player´s game is similar to Matt McQuaid´s, he took a longer pause and then chuckled “A more athletic Kyle Korver”. When I asked McQuaid the same question, he first tried to squirm out of the question, but then agreed with his teammate. He has shown in pre season that he can shoot the ball, but he was never that dominate scorer in the NCAA, but he didn´t have to be, because he had enough teammates who took that role. He feels like he doesn´t have to be that big scorer now as a professional. “I don´t think about having to score. For me it is most important is be doing everything for the win and helping the team be successful”, warned Matt McQuaid. Captain Tez Robertson will respect this mindset of Mcquaid, but the ex Auburn(NCAA) standout also knows that the rookie will be scoring this season on a regular basis. “He won´t have a problem scoring this season. He can shoot the ball very well and also get to the rim. But what people don´t know yet is how well his drive and finishing is. He will score a lot in double figures this season”, warned Quantez Robertson.

Another big strength in his game is his defensive qualities. This is a trait that fits perfectly to this season´s Skyliner´s team. The Fraport Skyliner´s have had that defensive identity for years under head coach Gordon Herbert, but last season the club underachieved giving up way too many points. New head coach Sebastian Gleim puts a lot of pride into playing excellent defense and with defensive experts like Quantez Robertson, Shaquile Hines, and Anthony Hickey on board, adding a guy like Mcquaid who can defend will give the defense versatility and depth. “I love the game of basketball. I am always studying the game and players and seeing what a players tendencies are and what I can take away. I give my all on each possession”, warned Matt McQuaid. Robertson has been impressed so far with the defensive qualities of the rookie. “He does a good job fighting through screens and playing very aggressive on ball defense”, stated Quantez Robertson. Another big strength in his game is his basketball IQ. One has noticed already in pre season that he is a fast learner and is very good at reading the defense which has helps him make the right decisions quickly. He was lucky having been able to shape his IQ at Michigan State. “Coach Izzo always said to make the right play”, said Matt McQuaid. That seems to have stayed with the Texas native. Also Robertson has noticed that the rookie has been taught basketball the right way at Michigan State. “He has a pretty good IQ for a rookie. He reads ball screens well and coming off screens is ready to defend. He will get even better as the year progresses”, stressed Quantez Robertson.

He has many strengths, but also things that he needs to work on like every other player. Granted he has an amazing shot. ESPN´s Jeff Goodman stated that McQuaid was the best pure shooter in the NCAA last season with an NBA trigger and NBA plus range, but has  flaws like being a bit undersized and lacking good speed to take the defender off the dribble. I saw him flaunting a very nice and rapid first step as he took a Heidelberg player off the dribble finishing with a floater. One sees that despite having flaws on the scouting report, he is working on his deficiencies and making progress. He also knows other aspects of his game that he needs to improve at. “I need to work on the pick and roll on offense as well as the spacing and speed of the European game”, warned Matt McQuaid. The American has a lot of veterans on the squad and also knows exactly to whom he can go to for the extra work, inspiration and answers to weaknesses in his game. “I think I will help him with playing defense without using his hands. Also I will help him with knowing when to recognize the week side defense better”, stressed Quantez Robertson. It is a long season and it will be interesting to see just how well he will fit into the rotation offensively and defensively. The club will be a lot better defensive team this season than last which the club has demonstrated with the quality of new players that have been reeled in as well as the basketball philosophy that head coach Sebastian Gleim has preached so far in the pre season. Offensively he will definitely have his moments especially on nights when shots aren´t falling for a Lamont Jones, Quantez Robertson or Anthony Hickey. The American will be just fine and will fit fine to the Fraport Skyliners family. Even if he will be turning 24 years old soon and looks more like a young teenage version of a Justin Bieber, the rugged basketball men of the easyCredit BBL will notice sooner than later that he plays a lot older than he looks and has that special versatility that nobody dare will be able to overlook.