Juwan Parker is a 24 year old 193cm guard form Tulsa, Oklahoma that completed his rookie season in Germany with Pro A team Nurnberg Falcons helping them move up to the easyCredit BBL averaging 6,3ppg and 2,6rpg.. He began his basketball career at Booker T. Washington High School and moved to Georgia (NCAA) in 2013 and played a stellar four year career playing a total of 116 games.In his junior season he played 32 games averaging 9.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 15.7%, FT: 85.6% and as a senior at Georgia (NCAA) played 33 games averaging 8.2ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 40.1%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 85.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com at the end of his rookie season.

Juwon thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how good is basketball life treating you at the moment?

I’m currently in Nurnberg and basketball is treating me amazingly. I’m enjoying my last couple of days over here with friends and teammates I met during this great season, so live is amazing.

Congrats on the amazing season with the Nurnberg Falcons. With everything that you have achieved in your basketball career, where does this magical season rank?

Man Honestly, it’s up there as one of the best. The guys on the team, the coaches, the fans, everything was amazing. I honestly don’t know if I’d ever have that much fun day-in and day-out with a group like this. It’s definitely one of those seasons I know I’ll look back on in 5-10 years with super fond memories.

Most of basketball Germany never thought it would be possible for Nurnberg to achieve moving up. Did the fact that the club overachieved a bit lessen the disappointment a bit not being able to win it all over the Hamburg Towers?
Yes and no. As a competitor you definitely want to win every time you step on the court. At the same time you have to realize everything we had accomplished this season and still feel good about it.

It was a very exciting final series against the Hamburg Towers. You won the first game by three points and lost the second game. Will that last three by German Justus Hollatz be one of those shots that will always creep back into your memories when look back on this final series?
It was a great shot he hit, but no I don’t think it’ll creep back into my memories. Like I said, we had accomplished so much up to that point and I enjoyed everything so I’ll remember the good times way before I’ll remember that shot.

Let’s talk about the season. If someone had told you on January 26 after having an 8-11 record and having lost 6 of the last 7 games that the club would reach the final and move up to the easyCredit BBL what would you have said?
I honestly wouldn’t have known what to say. January was a hectic month for us playing an unusual amount of games, I had been injured and didn’t play in a lot of them. Basti wasn’t back yet. So we really didn’t have our full team the whole season, but we were just trying to stay afloat at that time.

After that the club went on a furious 11 game winning streak to end the regular season. What were the main reasons for the amazing turnaround?

The main reasons were defense, communication and a belief in the individuals as well as the group. Our team became better because different guys stepped up each game. We were playing really well defensively and taking teams out of their comfort zones.

How was the team different going into the playoffs where you swept Trier and beat Heidelberg 3-1. Did it feel invincible?
We were confident. We knew what are strengths and weaknesses were and we stuck to them. I wouldn’t say we felt invincible, but personally I didn’t think a team was going to beat us, let alone in a 5 game series. Even games where we were behind, I still felt like the team was calm and never wavered.

What did you appreciate most about this club this season? What made it so special to strap on a Nurnberg Falcons jersey?
Everything. Getting the chance to continue to play basketball first and foremost. Then when you’re going out every game playing for such a passionate fan base and then you are really close with your teammates, it’s like going out and playing with family every game. So I appreciate how my teammates and the fans welcomed me, especially a guy coming in the middle of the year that they probably knew nothing about, the love I’ve received here has been humbling.

The club had so many season highlights this season. If you had to pick one which would you chose?

There’s a couple that come to mind. All of Ish’s pindown blocks. A few of Marvin’s dunks, Jackson’s game winner in Chemnitz.

How vital was head coach Ralph Junge for the success and how did you see his development grow. He has been known for years for developing young Germans which he did in Ehingen and kept doing in Nurnberg. Now he had his first huge success on the men’s level

Coach was awesome the entire year. Really keeping us focused on our energy and intensity levels at all times and making sure we were playing with pride.

Let’s talk about your teammates. How vital was Ishmail Wainright for the success of the team? What did you appreciate most about his game and what will be your most long lasting memory of him?

Ish was MVP of our team for me. His unselfishness was key. Whether he scored 20 points or 2 points he was always locked in defensively, rebounding, assisting. He brought whatever we needed to each game. The memory will be just his personality. He’s goofy and very easy going and just enjoys life.

In our last interview you stated that American Jackson Kent had helped you with certain tricks. What were some of those tricks and how did he develop further?

Jackson helped me a lot teaching me about angles and attacking in certain situations. Defenses started keying in on Jackson and he developed by always trying to make the right play or pass. He’s much more than just a shooter and it showed later in the season.

You worked closely with talented Germans Moritz Sanders, Ben Gahlert, and Matthew Meredith. How did they develop further and which guy do you feel made the biggest strides?
Ben was injured when I arrived but you could tell his confidence in his game grew. Same with Mo and Matthew. They’re all very skilled but as the season went on you could see their confidence growing and growing.

How vital was the leadership and energy of German veteran Basti Schroeder? What one experience will you never forget with him that truly showed what kind of guy he is?

Man when Basti came back it brought new life to the team, he truly is The Captain. There’s not just one experience, but he definitely is a great guy. He always looked out for me and the other guys and made me feel welcome and apart of the team. So for that, to him, I’m very thankful.

Let’s talk about your game. You averaged 6,3ppg and 2,6rpg in 14 minutes per game. How content were you with your season?

I believe I had a very solid first season. Definitely have some things to work on, like all players. I need to get my percentages up amongst other things. I am content, but ready to get back to work on it.

You played only 20 minutes or more four times. How difficult was it for you having 14 minutes on average? What positives did you get out of it? Possibly having that continued motivation to prove yourself in practice?
As a player and competitor you want to play every minute, especially when you feel like you should be out there. Positives that I got out of it was just having a hunger every time you go out to prove you can play and produce at this level. Also, it was learning a role, my role was to come off the bench and bring energy, so I believe I excelled at that. But really it’s given me huge motivation for this summer, I want to be a guy that plays most of the game so it’s inspired me to work even harder.

You stated this in our last interview. ‘I think I can do a little bit of everything. I think coming out of college my ability to handle the ball and defend were questioned but I think I can hold my own with anybody’. How do you feel did your game develop despite the playing time?
My game developed a lot. It’s not easy to go from playing college basketball, not playing for 9 months, then coming to play Pro in Europe. It’s a different type of game, and coming in the middle of the season you’re learning everything on the fly. I believe I proved I could guard anybody on the perimeter. Also, I feel my ballhandling and passing got better because Coach allowed me to play the 1 in practice quite a bit. In college I never really came off ball screens or got to bring the ball up, so being allowed to do that in practice helped a lot. I also developed in my ability to read the game, read what defenders were doing.

How did head coach Ralph Junge help you develop further) Talk a little about your relationship to him and how each other’s characters were involved?
He helped me by giving me some tricks of the trade, allowing me to play PG in practice and in some games. He’s a great guy. Very encouraging and he helps instill and build confidence in me how he speaks to you and shows and teaches.

What was your personal season highlight on the court? Possibly the 24 point 9 rebound explosion in the big win against PS Karlsruhe?

I think the Karlsruhe game is up there, as well as Game 2 vs Trier in the playoffs. I think they were just really solid games that were able to show what I could do on the court.

What is the next step for you? Could you imagine remaining in Nurnberg or would you consider going to a new country and culture?

That’s up to God man. My job is to take a little rest and then get back to the court trying to improve every day. I would love to return to Nurnberg, it’ll forever have a special place in my heart, especially with the move to the BBL. But I’m open to just about whatever, I get to play basketball, I have the best job on earth.

On what things will you continue to work on in the lab this summer as you continue to improve as a player?

I want to get in elite shape and conditioning, you can tell the guys who are in elite shape and I think that’ll help me tremendously. Skill wise of course ballhandling and shooting, being able to create shots for myself and teammates at a higher level.

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

That’s hard to say, there’s so many good players and each team has a unique challenge or threat.

What was your reaction when you heard that Lebron James named himself the greatest of all-time?

That man’s entitled to his opinion and as a guy who is an All-timer and an competitor I hope he does feel that he’s the GOAT. Doesn’t mean he’s right, but he could be.

Charles Barkley proclaimed that Tom Brady Is more of a GOAT than Michael Jordan. Do you share his opinion?

I don’t. Tom Brady is the GOAT of football, but in football you play one side of the ball and especially quarterbacks, they don’t have to be athletic or anything besides have a mind and an arm. Jordan is the GOAT because he’s on the greatest offensive and defensive players ever.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I saw was cold pursuit.

Thanks Juwan for the chat.

Dan Oppland is a 35 year old 203cm forward that completed his 13 professional season and first season with the MLP Academics averaging 10,7ppg, 4,9rpg and 1,6 apg. He started his basketball career with Valparaiso (NCAA) in 2002 where he played until 2006. He started his professional basketball career in 2006 for Hanzevast Capitals Groningen (Holland). He then played in countries like Poland and Sweden before coming to Bayreuth in 2008. He then played for seasons four Allianz Swans Gmunden (Austria-A Bundesliga) where he won three titles. He also played for Namika Lahti (Finland-Korisliiga) in the 2013-2014 season playing 47 games averaging 15.7ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.0%. He played 119 games with Nurnberg from 2014-2018 and was able to improve his scoring average each season. germanhoops.com spoke to him after the end of the 2018-2019 season.

Dan thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball treating you at the moment?

Hey Miles. I am still in Heidelberg at the moment. Season just ended on Monday after a tough loss to Nuernberg in the playoffs.

What was the first eatery that you visited first upon arrival back home in the States?

Well I haven’t gone home yet, I won’t be going until the end of June, early July. But if I had to choose an eatery to visit as soon as I touchdown in the states, it would have to be Chipotle.

Congrats on the great season in Heidelberg. You were semi retired last summer, but latched on another season with Heidelberg. How special was this season for you?

It was a very special for me because I never thought I would be playing another season. It was a great experience and great season. Plus, my daughter was born here as well, which made it most special.

What kind of experience was it playing against your ex team Nurnberg Falcons and having to bow your hat to them? I can imagine that despite losing to them, it was one of the only times in your career where you were truly happy about the opponent winning.


It was an amazing experience to play against Nuernberg. The loss still hurts and will stay with me for a long time. I can’t sit here and say I’m happy they won, but I am very happy for Basti Schroeder, Ralph Junge and the rest of the organization for getting the opportunity to move up to the BBL. I wish them nothing but the best.

With what emotions did you say farewell to the season? On the one hand the team achieved so much, but on the other hand just missed reaching the final.

I am still very disappointed we didn’t get it done this year because I feel like we had the team to get it done, but that’s life sometimes. It doesn’t always go the way you want it.

You split the season series with Nurnberg and lost 3-1 in the playoffs. What is your semi-final playoff summary? I believe this is a series that many in Heidelberg will remember as being one where the Academics didn’t take advantage off enough

I felt like Nuernberg took advantage of our mistakes better than we did of theirs. We also didn’t protect our homecourt which is something you have to do if you want to win in the playoffs. Overall, I didn’t feel like we played a good series, and a lot of that had to with Nuernberg, so give them credit

I believe the turning point was game three. Heidelberg let that game get away. What do you feel really cost you this game the most?

After we took the ten point lead in the middle of the third quarter, we really should have put the game away there, but we didn’t. We let Nuernberg hang around and a few costly mistakes at the end of that quarter gave them the momentum they needed for the fourth. We also didn’t protect the three point line in the second half which really was key for them.

What did you respect the most about the Nurnberg Falcons this season? This is a team that nobody except people in Nurnberg would have had the audacity to proclaim months ago that they would move up.

I respect the way they fought and played together. You could tell this team had great chemistry. I credit a lot of that to Basti Schroeder, who is an amazing leader and captain. I’m sure he set the tone early in the season, which made it easier for Ralph and Vytautas to coach this group. Plus, the development of the young players was huge for this team.

Let’s talk about the whole season. The MLP Academics were 7-6 at the start of December. How vital was it closing out 2018 with that three game winning streak that included a big win against Hamburg. 

It was very important because we seemed to find our identity during that stretch before the break. 

You had two tough crunch-time loses to Trier and PS Karlsruhe at the end of the regular season. Were those losses like a blessing in disguise letting the team know that there was playoff business coming up. You easily disposed of pesky Ehingen by an average of 14 points in the three game series.

Those two losses were definite wake-up calls for us, and I think we really did a job of regrouping after that. We went into the Ehingen series with right mindset, knowing that their team was ready to play. 

What really impressed me about the MLP Academics this season was their consistency despite not having a deep rotation like many other Pro A teams. What was the secret to the success and was there a special mentality that continued to grow during the season that allowed the team to be so successful?

Our team chemistry was instrumental to our success this season. We have a great group of guys who came in every day with the same goal in mind, and that was to get better. No one ever complained, it was always about business.

What made it so special to play for the MLP Academics Heidelberg for a second season? Did you notice that that the basketball culture is continuing to grow in there and that something special is happening?

I think here in Heidelberg is growing especially after the success of this year. Hopefully the momentum from this year can push the club to new heights next season and future seasons to come.k the culture

The MLP Academics had many season highlights. Was it possibly sweeping the Hamburg Towers or beating Chemnitz or was it something else?

Sweeping Hamburg and beating Chemnitz were probably two of the biggest highs in my book. Advancing to the semis was also a big deal since it had never been done in Heidelberg before. 

One of the real great and seemingly underrated coaches in Germany is coach Frenki. Please talk about how important he has been to the new winning culture in Heidelberg?

Frenki set the tone for our season on the very first day of training camp. He has done a great job in Heidelberg and it was an honor to play for him this season. I wish him continued success in the future.

Let’s talk about your teammates. For many in Heidelberg Shy Ely was an MVP candidate. Most of the Pro A players I interviewed after this season stated as him being their toughest cover. How vital was he for the success of the team?

Shy was our guy this season. We relied on him heavily throughout the entire season. It was a pleasure to watch his approach to the game. He always brought it with a ferocious intensity and focus that you don’t see all the time.

Last year your teammate Jaleen Smith said this about Niklas Wurzner after being his teammate. ‘Nikki turned himself into the floor general of our team. If you watched our games, you can just see it. He’s going be really good in a year or 2 so be on the lookout for him. He just has a great feel for the game. He plays at his own pace and doesn’t let the defense dictate how the game going to be played. I feel his passing got more and more better as the season went on. More like his vision on the court was through the roof. He could see everything in front of him or behind him’. How did you see his development continue in your second year? How did you see his development grow this season?

Since this is my first year with the team, I can only say that Niki really developed throughout the entire year. That was evident in the passion he played with in the playoffs. I wish him nothing but the best in the future.

How vital was it having Jaleen Smith on the team for the success? In a very guard orientated league, he seems to get lost in the shuffle a bit. How vital was he for the success of the team?

Shy might have been our best player but I felt like Jaleen was our most important player because he did everything for us. It was amazing to watch his improvement throughout this season and to see the steps he made from last year. He has turned himself into a great player and it will be exciting to see where he ends up in the future.

Last season Jaleen Smith stated this about veteran Eric Palm. ‘It was great having Eric, he taught me a lot of stuff that I will carry with me for a long time. He didn’t just teach me shooting tips but more importantly he taught me how to move without the ball. Just learning when to cut on offense. Having him come in was such a joy and a great pick up for the team’. What new things could you soak up from him in your second season as teammates? What was it like having that second real experienced guy on the team? What special qualities were you able to detect in his game?

Eric and I really jelled from the onset. His knowledge and basketball IQ is as good as it gets. I really enjoyed discussing the game with him. You could see that on the court because we really played well together. He is a student of the game and l loved being his teammate this year. 

How key was it having that added German veteran Philipp Heyden on the team. How did his 9 years of BBL experience show on the court best?

Phil is a beast, and he was huge for us this season. It is tough to find a player of his size and skillset, especially in the Pro A, so we were lucky to have him. I am happy he will continue his career in Heidelberg.

In our last interview you stated that you hoped people would remember how hard you worked and that you did everything you could to win. Did you know last summer that you would miss the game and day to day grind if you had really retired?

I didn’t know that but I think no matter when I stop, I will always miss those things, but like I have said before, you can’t play forever.

You turned 35 during the last season played lofty minutes and had solid stats. Did some of the older guys in the BBL like Ricky Paulding or the Jena trio of Mccelroy, Jenkins and Allen motivate you to continue? You are in your mid 30’S and still play like a 28 year old.

Haha, I appreciate that. When you see guys like that playing at such a high level, it does motivate you because if they can do it, why can’t I do it too? I never have looked at my age as a determinant of my playing because I still feel good. If I feel young, that is all the matters.

You averaged 10,7pp, 4,9rpg and 1,6apg. How content were you with your game this season?

I’m always content with my game because my approach has always been the same. As long as I am giving all that I can, that’s all I can ask of myself. I was happy with how my best play came in the playoffs this season. I tried to leave all out on the floor, so I was happy with that.

Obviously your experience is very key, but was there anything you did differently that helped Heidelberg this season achieve success that you didn’t have to do with Nurnberg the last seasons?

Not really. I feel like my approach was the same as it was in Nuernberg. 

You had many great games during the regular season like your 16 point effort in the win over Chemnitz, but I can imagine your personal season highlight was giving your all and stepping up your game in the Nurnberg series. 

Yeah, like I already said, I felt like I left it all on the line in that series, so I can be happy with that. But the frustration will stay with me for a while. I’m too competitive to forget about that series. It just hurts too much.

What is the next step for you? Are we going to do another retirement interview and then see you come back to play another season or do you see yourself really retiring?

I really don’t know at the moment what the next step is. I’m not going to give a retirement interview just yet, because I still need to sit down with my wife and decide what’s best for our family.

On what things will you be working on the lab this summer to continue to improve your game if you happen to decide to return for another season?

Like always, my 3 point shooting needs to get better. I will also continue to work on my athleticism and quickness. 

Please name your five all-time best teammates in college and pro’s

Wow, that’s really tough. I’ve been privileged to have some great teammates over the years. My obvious number one answer would be my brother, Mike, but excluding him, here it goes:
Sebastian Schroeder, Braydon Hobbs, Jaivon Harris, Josh Young, Virgil Matthews.

It’s still so early, but when all is said and done could Luka Doncic be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA? 

After what he did in his rookie season, he’s on track to do some special things that we have never seen before.

What was your reaction when you heard that Lebron James named himself the greatest of all-time? 

I understand where he is coming from, but I don’t agree on him saying that since no one before him as ever done that. To me, Mike is the greatest, but that’s just my opinion. 

Charles Barkley recently proclaimed that Tom Brady Is more of a GOAT than Michael Jordan. Do you share his opinion?

Wow, that’s tough to say. They both are killers. I don’t know if I can say that. Can I put them both on the same level???

Tom Brady won sixth Super Bowl. Where will he be if he wins a seventh next season?

He will where he has been for the past few years, at the top of the mountain looking down at everyone else. 

What was the last movie that you saw? 

Bohemian Rhapsody

Thanks Dan for the chat.

Rayshawn Simmons is a 25 year old 192cm guard from St louis, Missouri, that completed his fourth professional season and first in Germany with Team Ehingen averaging 11,5ppg, 3,4rpg and 9,4apg. Last season he played with the Logan Thunder (Australia-QBL) playing 18 games averaging 12.6ppg, 4.1rpg, Assists-1 (8.4apg), FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 76.2%. As a rookie he played with Orli Prostejov (Czech Republic-NBL) playing 15 games averaging 11.9ppg, 4.5rpg, Assists-4 (5.3apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 26.1%, FT: 71.2%. He began his basketball career with Moberly Area CC and then finished at Central Michigan (NCAA) playing 95 NCAA games over the course of three seasons and as a senior played 33 game averaging 12.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 5.0apg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 64.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the 2018-2019 season.

Thanks Rayshawn for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?

I’m currently in my hometown Saint Louis, Missouri (USA) spending some time with family. 

It has been some months since our last interview. How has basketball time flown by in this time? 

Basketball has been good. Took a tough first round loss in playoffs not long ago, so now I’ve just been relaxing spending time with family. 

Congrats on helping Ehingen reach the Pro A playoffs. The team had a massive turn around from the season before. What was the secret to the success this season? 

Thank you. The secret to the success was just a group of guys willing to do whatever it takes to win and having a group of guys that enjoyed playing together. 

After remembering the season with Ehingen last season reaching position 15, what would you have said if somebody had told you in preseason that the club would finish in seventh place?

I was a guy that came in from day one and told the GM we would be going to the playoffs this year and emphasizing it to guys on the team until everyone believed it. The team last year had nothing to do with our group of guys. 

Ehingen didn’t have an easy playoff foe with Heidelberg who swept you. After getting swept do you feel like the team underachieved a bit in the playoffs and should have given them a better fight? 

No, I don’t feel like we underachieved at all. We had a team that could’ve advanced but after having two starters (one German and one American) go down with 4 games left in the season before the playoffs we knew we’d have our hands full. We were one of the youngest 3 teams in the league and had one of the lower budgets in the league, so making playoffs or even not finishing bottom two we couldn’t underachieve. 

You came into the playoffs with the third best offense averaging 83 points per game, but against Heidelberg averaged only 69 points. Do you feel like the offense let you down or did Heidelberg defend better than what you expected? 

Hat off to Heidelberg. They did a terrific job with their defensive scheme but the biggest difference in the scoring was Seger Bonifant and Tim Harsbargen being injured. Those were our two best shooters and Seger was the leagues best shooter. Those two combined average 24-26ppg. 

Ehingen played with a slim rotation in the playoffs. How much of an effect did that have on your success? 

That had a huge affect but we were forced to ride a slim rotation because of injuries. 

Seger Bonifant missed a game and in the other two games couldn’t explode. Do you feel like the lethal Seger Bonifant was missing and if present would have turned the series into a different one?

The series would’ve definitely been different if he was able to play. I’m not saying we’d have won the series but for sure would’ve won a game. 

It was a very special season for Team Ehingen. How vital was the team ability to always get up and being successful in certain down times of the season? 

It was vital that we all maintained our relationships with each other because we all had a respect for each other and genuinely cared about each other.

The team played it’s best basketball in January and February winning 8 of 9 games. What was the team doing so well in this time that they couldn’t always do in other stretches of the season?

We just had it rolling then had some injuries and stuff going on in the month of March and cooled off. 

The team had many big wins, but what was the team’s biggest win of the season? Possibly the two exciting back to back two point wins against Artland and Phoenix Hagen?

I would say the Paderborn game because it was a point in our season where it would turn into a couple straight wins or losses. I would probably say the win at Nuremberg in January as well.

You have seen many very talented shooters in your career with Seger Bonifant. Do you believe he has what it takes to get a chance to play in the BBL? Wouldn’t be a delight if you and him were in the BBL next season?

I believe there’s no real ceiling for him as a player and can play anywhere in Europe at the rate he shoots the ball. It would be nice for sure. 

Another guy that has made huge strides is German Kevin Yebo. In our last interview you stated about him. Kevin Yebo is one of the best players in the league. He has no real ceiling & I’m excited to see him continue to improve this year & in his career. He’s a special player with athleticism you just can’t coach or teach. He’s extremely coachable with a eagerness to learn & improve daily. I really appreciate his natural feel for the game. He knows when to cut, pop, screen & fill the lane with me on the break in transition. We work & play off of each other extremely well. He’s a special talent who works hard & is also a testament to Coach Dom’s track record of improving players.’. Is he another guy ready for the BBL? 

Yes, Kevin for sure is ready for the BBL, he’s a rare talent and only been playing basketball for about 6 years. HE’s only going to get better. 

What kind of experience was it playing with versatile forward Tanner Leissner? How did his game make your game easier?

Tanner made my game easier just simply because I could always depend on him to be where he is supposed to be and if I saw something he would try it or challenge me to be better daily. 

Talk a little about the development of German Dom Uhl and Gianni Otto. What strides did they make and what did you appreciate most about their games? 

They both got a lot better from game 1 to the end but I feel we all did. I appreciate the fact that I knew no matter what I could count on them to make an impact in every game and never complain about minutes or touches.

Let’s talk about your game. You had very good stats in your first season in the German Pro A averaging 11,5ppg, 3,4rpg and 9,4apg in 30 minutes. How content were you with your personal season on the court? 

I wasn’t content honestly because I feel I could’ve done more. I’m one of my toughest critics. 

What do you believe your stats would have been had you played 36-37 minutes which are always possible in the Pro A? 

I think my scoring would’ve been higher for sure and I probably would’ve averaged the double double. The season wasn’t about that though so I was never concerned. Wins and durability was more important to me.

In our last interview you stated that ‘. I think I can lead with the best of leaders in the world & have the ability to make every single guy around me better’. You didn’t lie because you led Ehingen into the playoffs a team that had been fighting against staying in the league the previous years. How do you feel did you grow as a leader with Ehingen? 

Thank you. I think I grew as a leader and better at communicating or finding how to get certain people going or comfortable. 

You showed that you are a very strong playmaker always finding your teammates and almost averaged 10apg. Was it just a few minutes that was missing for you to attain double double stats in points and assists?

I’m not going to blame it on minutes but even with minutes played it was attainable. 

You stated in our last interview that your defensive qualities often go unnoticed on the court. Do you feel like area’s in your defensive game grew in the Ehingen system?

I think I learned how to be more active with my hands and being disruptive. 

There are so many talented guards all over the world, but BBL teams get a closer look at the guys in Germany. Do you feel like possibly some BBL teams took notice? Do you feel like you could be an impact player in the BBL?

I hope so. I think I could impact a team for sure. 

What was your personal best and favorite game with Ehingen? Possibly the wins against Heidelberg, Rostock or Trier? 

My favorite game was the one at Rostock. 

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

There was a lot of good guys. It’s tough to say just one. 

What is the next step for you? Could you imagine remaining in Germany or would you like to give a new country and culture and basketball style a chance? 

My next step is to continue getting better and I’ll discuss teams with my agent here soon.

On what things will you be working on this summer to continue to keep improving as a player and keep moving up the basketball ladder?

I will be working on getting my shot better along with becoming more flexible.

If you had to pick your personal favorite starting five of teammates over the years which players would you chose?

Chris Fowler Braylon Rayson Seger Bonifant Kevin Yebo Tanner Leissner 

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James? 

Two different eras and can’t compare. 

What is your early opinion where Luka Doncic will end one day in the NBA? Could he be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA when all is said and done? 

He should win rookie of the year in my opinion and for sure. 

What was the last movie that you saw? 

Us. The new Jordan Peele movie.

Thanks Rayshawn for the chat.

Abdul Gaddy is a 27 year old 193cm guard from Tacoma, Washington that completed his 6th professional season with the Oklahoma City Blue (NBA G League) playing 51 games averaging 9.7ppg, 3.2rpg, 6.6apg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 46.3%, FT: 55.0%. Two seasons ago he played with s.Oliver Wuerzburg (Germany-BBL) playing 34 games averaging 8.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.6apg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 26.8%, FT: 65.7%. In 2016-2017 he played with VEF Riga (Latvia-LBL) playing 26 VTB United League games averaging 5.5ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.5apg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 52.4%; In the Latvian LBL, he played 25 game averaging 9.7ppg, 3.5rpg, 5.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 50.0%. He played two seasons in Italy with Granarolo Bologna (Italy-Serie A) and as a rookie played with the Charlotte Bobcats (NBA), then moved to Maine Red Claws (D-League) playing 46 games averaging 9.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 5.0apg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 42.0%, FT: 57.6%. He played at Washington (NCAA) from 2009-2013 and as a senior played 34 games averaging 10.9ppg, 3.2rpg, 4.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 65.9%. He is playing at the 2019 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas with The Orlando Magic. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the NBA Summer League before playing his first game tonight.

Abdul thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. It has already been more than a year since you last played in Germany for s.Oliver Wurzburg. What memories do you have of that time and how do you feel did your game progress in that league?


I remember having great teammates and an amazing coaching staff. Playing for s.Oliver Wurzburg was one of the best times in my life. I feel that my game progressed greatly under coach Bauermann and from learning from the vets. I think that you always learn something new each season and with every new team you play with. Learning how to build a winning team was important as we got better as the season went on. Coach Bauermann was an energetic coach who was always on us on playing good defense. We had the best defender in the league with Cliff Hammonds and it was beneficial playing with him for everyone. 
I

After a few years in Europe in Italy, Latvia and Germany, you returned last season to the States and played in the G-league for the Oklahoma City Blue (NBA G League) It is isn’t to strange for guys to go to the NBA after many years in Europe. Guys Like Brad Wanamaker did it. Was one of your feelings of having returned last season with the hopes that your game had progressed well in Europe and was ready for a better shot for the NBA?

No I didn’t come home because of that, but moreover wanting to be around my family. I had some family issues and just wanted to be around them and let them have the chance to see me play more. The NBA is the NBA, but I respect all of basketball. There are so many great leagues and players all over the world. I just want to be part of a great team and be able to play the game that I love.

Last season with the Oklahoma City Blue (NBA G League) you played 51 games averaging 9.7ppg, 3.2rpg, 6.6apg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 46.3%, FT: 55.0%. How content were you with your season?

I thought that I had a solid season, but as a team we could of done better. I really wanted to win a title. I was lucky playing with and against many high level athletes where I was able to learn a lot from. We had a great coaching staff that helped me get better.

You averaged 6,6apg in the G-league the highest assist mark in your career? What do you feel were the main reasons for having your best assist average in your career?

I was lucky to be able to find guys in great position to score. The way the team was run, there was a lot of trust in guys making shots. For me it has never been about playing for stats, but generating good shots for my teammates. My main job is generating the best shot for my teammates. 

You were teammates last season with Bryce Alford who recently signed with medi Bayreuth. What was your impression of him and will he be an impact player this season in the easyCredit BBL?

Bryce is a monster and as tough as nails. He can really shoot the ball and isn’t afraid of the moment. He will be a great player and have a long career. I loved playing with him and I can’t wait to see how he will continue to grow as a player.

You will be playing NBA Summer League with the Orlando Magic. The last time that you played was in 2013 and 2014. What memories do you have of those two times? What players do you remember playing against then that might have made it big in the league?

The memories I had was that we had ok teams, but it was tough not winning. I was fortunate to be ABle to play against great players. Two guys that come to mind were Russ Smith and Patrick Young

With what kind of expectations are you going into your third NBA Summer League? Your 27 years old. Would you say that your in your prime now after a very good G-league season with Oklahoma?

In the NBA Summer League you see so many great players that will play in the NBA or Euroleague that it is tough to name just one. I’m not really going into it with any expectations except knowing it is a great opportunity where I can compete against great players and try to win a title. I think that I have been improving and keep learning being able to make adjustments in certain situations.

You have been practicing all week with the NBA Summer League team of the Orlando Magic. Has there been any guys that have impressed you most?

Mo Bamba is huge and very athletic and a great shot blocker. The guys are all so young. They are all good people and come from good families and school programs. All are super humble and working very hard. I feel we have all been learning from each other. 

The majority of the players are rookies and guys with 1-2 years of experience. Rarely do you see older guys like yourself. How thankful are you to Worldwide SM agency for getting you this gig?

I am very thankful to them. They are a great group and I consider them like family. I am really grateful that they have helped me come this far and let me play at this stage. Not every player gets a chance like this. I will just continue to enjoy the moment as best I can.

As one of the older fellows on the squad, do you feel like it’s a given for you to be like a mentor to younger players or are you going in 100% aggressive just concentrating on your game?


I’m going into the NBA Summer League games to lead and help win a title. I’m not focusing on me. Basketball was invented for 5 players and not for 1-1 play. Regardless of what my stats are, my focus is on winning. I am helping the young guys, but they also have the chance to help me. If they have any insight about how we could have a better chance of winning, I’m all for it.

The NBA Summer League is seen as a playground for players playing for stats. How difficult is this type of scenario for a guy like yourself that likes to find his teammates and is used to being a playmaker?

Yes it can be tough at times, but that is part of the gig. Having guys play for their stats is all over the place. The trick is of figuring out a way to win games regardless of how players are thinking. That happens in any job. There will always be guys with different ego’s. I personally want every guy to be successful and help them accomplish their dream. I just want to win. That should be the goal in any organization.

Your season ended on March 29TH. You have had some months to get ready for another chance of wooing NBA coaches and bosses. On what areas of your game have you been working on most to be best prepared for this years NBA Summer League?

I have been working on my body and to be in the best shape possible. I have been working on parts of my game as well at both ends of the court. I also have been working on my footwork and knowing how to perform at my best from game to game at the highest level. 

On what are you looking forward to most in this years NBA Summer League? Any battles your excited about or any coaches you want to talk basketball with or is there that specific teammate that your looking forward to be playing with?

I am really looking forward to playing with every teammate. All are great guys and I have been picking everyone’s brains so far. I also can learn from my coaches who have experienced a lot and have shown how they have contributed to winning organizations.

Last season you had dealings with Russell Westbrook on the court. He is often seen as a tough person, but on the court a very aggressive player who hates to lose. How did you experience him last season and what did you find out about him that little people know?

Russ is an amazing teammate and one of the best you can be around. He is team first. Many criticize him for wanting to always get triple doubles, but he really is team first. His teammates absolutely love him. He is a freak athlete and one of the best athletes at the point guard position. He is something special. You see him on TV and I see him on the court. I picked his brain a lot. He is always super focused and avoids the noise. He is the ultimate competitor. The way he acts isn’t in disrespect, but it’s his focus of getting the task done.

Thanks Abdul for the chat.

Orlando Parker is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Orlando, Florida that completed his fifth professional season and fourth in Germany and third with PS Karlsruhe averaging 13,7ppg and 6,3rpg while shooting 41,7% from outside. In the 2017-2018 season he averaged 13,2ppg and 5,7rpg. He started his basketball career with Wagner (NCAA) in 2010 playing a total of 118 NCAA games. As a senior he played 26 games averaging 6.7ppg, 6.7rpg, FGP: 44.7%, FT: 62.0%. In 2014 he turned professional with UL Eagles Limerick (Ireland-Premier League) playing 17 games averaging 19.9ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.1spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 42.4%, FT: 78.5%. In 2015-2016 he played with Baskets Vilsbiburg (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 26 games averaging 22.6ppg, 9.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 79.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the 2018-2019 season.

Thanks Orlando for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment? 

I’m currently still in Germany taking advantage of my time in Europe before I depart for the states soon.

It’s been a year since our last interview. Has basketball time flown by in this time for you as you are approaching your fifth professional season? ‘

Yes time is moving quickly it feels just like yesterday when I was just playing in 1st regio

It was another special season for PS Karlsruhe. How do you believe did the special basketball culture grow in the last season after it’s amazing Pro A debut in 2017? 

I believe last seasons debut to the Pro A was huge for the club and recognition in the league. I knew coming into this season teams would challenge us and prepare for us like a top team in the league in which they did despite our slow start to the season.

Last season the club reached the Pro A semi-finals playing a hard fought 4 game series against eventual Pro A champion Rasta Vechta, but this season the club reached only the quarterfinals. Considering the expectations that the club had did the team underachieve? 

I’m sure the club and the team were proud of making the playoffs. We faced probably the toughest amount of adversity in the league with key players being out all season long, starting off the season in last place in the standings on top of a coaching change. Despite those things we were still able to reach the playoffs so if anything I believe we overachieved

This season PS Karlsruhe was swept by top Pro A team Chemnitz. What is your summary to the PS Karlsruhe series? Do you feel like you could have done more as a team to have had more of a chance? 

As I mentioned before we played the entire year under man but we still gave them a good run. Chemnitz is a great team that plays the game the right way which they proved all season long.

It came to down to defense. In the regular season the club allowed 79 points per game, but in the playoffs against Chemnitz 87 points. What made it so tough playing them in this series? 

Chemnitz biggest strength in my opinion is their depth. They have a really deep bench that contributes in every way throughout the game, which allows them to constantly attack teams offensively and defensively

How tough was it the game to game scouting? You never really could key in on 1-3 players, because they were a club that really had 7-8 guys that could light up the score board in any given game? 

Our job wasn’t to key in on just one guy because they don’t have a player that’s going to carry the team like most teams in the league. We focused more on our defensive principles

There was a great stretch in November, December and January where the team won 10 of 11 games. This was the best time of the season where the club was playing it’s best basketball. Did the team instill that ‘We are invincible feeling’? 

Well we started off slow in the beginning due to the injuries and new players, so it just took us some time to get accustomed to each other and our tendencies. We just felt at that moment we were playing our best basketball and things started to click for us.

Please sum up the team season for the club. What were the team highlights of the season and what made it special playing for this team? Was the win against Heidelberg at the end of the season one of the biggest wins of the season? 

This team was special because we battled adversity and overcame so much together. Although we didn’t reach our goal we accomplished something that most teams couldn’t. The win against Heidelberg was huge for us because that game clinched our spot in the playoffs.

Let’s talk about your teammates. How special was it playing with Davonte Lacy? You have played with many pure scorers in your career, but where did his scoring ability rank with all the guys that you have played with in your career? 

Lacy is a special player with a unique ability to get his shot off at any given moment. With a knack for scoring he was vital for us in big moments late in the game. I’ve played with a lot of great scorers but he’s definitely up there with the best.

How did you see the development of Kahron Ross? He had an up and down rookie season. How did his game improve form the first day of training camp to game three against Chemnitz? 

Kahron took on a very big challenge this year at the PG position. He’s improved so much with his decision making and ability to blow by his defenders with his speed and quickness. He’s always had that gift but it’s improved since the preseason.’

German Filmore Beck is a bonafide veteran that can when he wants to shoot out the lights. Is there anything that you could soak up from his game that was able to help you in parts of your game? 

I believe Fil doesn’t get enough credit for what he’s capable of doing. This guy can not only shot but he can create his shot better than anyone I’ve seen in the league. He has a smooth finesse touch to his game when he’s finishing around the rim that I always enjoy to watch and implement to my own.

You had many German players on the team like Pluskota, Nyama and Johnson. Of these three which player do you feel made the biggest stride? 


Mo has been injured this year but DJ and Roland made huge impacts for the team. DJ is a guy that every team needs to have on their roster. With his tenacity and attention to detail he’s a vocal leader that impacts the game. He has the ability to play and defend multiple positions which is important for a teams success. Roland has so much upside and I believe he’s now starting to realize what he can do with it. With his athleticism and ability to score when needed, really helped our team a lot as well.

Let’s talk about your game. You had a very productive sophomore campaign with PS Karlsruhe averaging 13,7ppg, 6,3rpg and shot over 40% from outside for the second consecutive season in the Pro A. You seem to be getting better with age. What is the secret to your success? 

I wish there was a secret but every player already knows that it comes down to hard work. The off-seasons are huge for me and my development. Each year I try to add something new to my game and overall appearance and this year I added a post game and slashing ability to become more of a threat aside from the 3pt line.

How content were you with your game this season? What made the Pro A level easier for you in your second season? 

It’s like taking a test you already know the answers to with added bonus questions. Entering this year I already knew the league, the players, the matchups, the team styles of play, the gym atmospheres, the refs etc. So with that knowledge it made it easier for me this second time around.

You improved your stats tremendously, but also gained 5 minutes more. What were your personal goals before the season and did you fulfill them? 

Every players dream is to probably play the entire game but it’s just physical not realistic at this level. So playing those 5 extra minutes gave me more time do more on the court. My main personal goal before the season was mainly to prove I belong and I believe this year I did that.

In our last interview you stated ‘I’m never content with anything in life. I believe there is so much room for improvement on my game and I can get better. My minutes don’t bother me as much, I love showing people what I can do in the amount of minutes I receive’. How content were you with your efficiency this season with the minutes that you got? 

I felt pretty good on how well I played with the minutes I received this year

You shot 40% from outside for the second season in a row. You have stated that you put in a lot of work in the summers. What does a player like you do now to become an even better shooter? 

Well as a shooter I believe in repetition, repeating the same shot in different rhythms and positions on the court. So there are still many ways I can work on becoming a better shooter.

You are a hard nosed player that takes a lot of pride in defending. In your last interview you stated ‘I consider myself a versatile defender who can guard 1-5. There is room for improvement and I can get better but for the most part I think I’m doing fine defensively at this level’. Your also a guy that doesn’t believe in defensive stats. How do you feel did you grow as a defender in your second season in the Pro A? 

Defense comes down to effort. There are many nights when shots aren’t going to fall but defense will always be there. So there is still much room for improvement on the defensive end. I enjoy being the help side defender the most because I find it very exciting challenging shots at the rim

You had two massive games scoring 37 points and 33 points in wins over Rostock and Baunach. Was the 37 point game your most memorable? 


Those are two very memorable games offensively but I really enjoyed the game against Tubingen when I shoot 7/8 from 3pt and finished with 9 offensive rebounds.

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

One of the guys that I love to compete against is Dan Oppland. He’s a tenacious player that I still can’t seem to figure out. I also like matching up against Jermaine Bucknor and Domink Sphor’

What is the next step for you? You have played most of your career in Germany. Are you content with being a very good Pro A player or is the BBL a realistic goal for you?

I’m never content with anything in life, but one of my favorite phrases to live by is ‘You can’t rush greatness’ so my time will come for the BBL.’

If you had to pick your personal favorite starting five of teammates over the years which players would you chose?

This tough but I love all my guys haha

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James?

LBJ

What is your early opinion where Luka Doncic will end one day in the NBA? Could he be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA when all is said and done?

He will definitely be in the top

What was the last movie that you saw?

Avengers-Endgame

Thanks Orlando for the chat.

Eric Kibi is a 28 year old 198cm forward from Ontario, Canada that completed his seventh professional season which took him to three countries starting with Golbey Epinal Thaon Vosges (France-NM1) where he played 5 games averaging 6.8ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.4apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 29.2%, 3FGP: 27.3%, FT: 73.3%, in Dec.’18 moved to MBK Handlova (Slovakia-SBL) playing 3 games and then in January 2019 signed at Al Mina (Iraq-IBL) where he averaged 22,0ppg, 15rpg and 2,0apg. Last season he played with C.B. Torrons Vicens L’Hospitalet (Spain-LEB Silver) where he played 33 games averaging 4.5ppg, 3.2rpg In 2016-2017 he played with Randers Cimbria Basketball (Denmark-Ligaen) playing 31 games averaging 10.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 70.2%. In 2015-2016 he played in Germany with the Hertener Loewen Basketball (Germany-ProB) playing 3 games averaging 4.7ppg, 8.0rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, left in Oct.’15, in Jan.’16 moved to KK Strsljen Gusinje (Montenegro-Erste Liga) playing 4 games averaging 3.8ppg, 5.5rpg, in Mar.’16 signed at London Lightning (Canada-NBL Canada) playing 23 games averaging 1.7ppg, 2.5rpg. He also played with Basketball Club Rendsburg (Germany-Regionalliga), Ottawa SkyHawks (NBL Canada) and BG Halstenbek/Pinneberg (Germany-Regionalliga). He started his basketball career in 2008 with Jacksonville College (NJCAA) where he played until 2010. He then played a season with UALR (NCAA) playing 29 games: 4.4ppg, 4.2rpg. He finished his college career in 2012 with Abil.Christian (NCAA2) playing 20 games: 8.2ppg, 5.7rpg, FGP: 60.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his 2018-2019 season.

Eric thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?

Hey Miles, for the moment I’m taking a vacation in Dubai after a long season. The basketball life is always good, it’s always a blessing, you take the good with the bad.

After playing the last two seasons in Denmark and Spain, this season you have had another busy season moving around from France to Slovakia and to Iraq. Has this season been more stressful with everything involved or was your 2015-2016 season where you played in Germany, Montenegro and Canada more stressful?

I won’t say stressful because like I said this is a blessing, I’ll say more like eventful. I wasn’t able to find the correct fit until I got to Iraq, as strange as that sounds.

What did you miss the most from the last two seasons where you balled in Denmark and Spain? Were you used to that normal routine of being in one place?

Of course it’s nice to spend a whole season in one place. I really enjoyed my time in Denmark and Barcelona, had successful seasons in both places but things happen in this business just like in the NBA, there’s always player movement.Through it all though you have to remain professional and keep faith.

Let’s begin with your first team Golbey Epinal Thaon Vosges (France-NM1). You last only five games and averaged 8.2 ppg , 6.0rpg, 2.4apg, 1.4spg. The stats remined me a bit on Herten. What kind of experience was it playing in France? 

It was overall a learning experience, I had a great pre-season, but unfortunately that didn’t translate to the first five games. We had a lot of injuries to start the season. I accepted the role of playing out of position at point guard for the better of the team and never complained. Some clubs aren’t patient and rather play Russian roulette which is fine, but at the end of the day the teams who won in that league weren’t the most talented teams but the teams who had the most cohesion and continuity.

How would you compare the NM 1 league to what you have seen elsewhere like the German Pro B and Leb Silver and other leagues in terms of style and talent?

Loved the competition there, every game was a dog fight. Every practice was intense, very different than Germany and Spain as far as intensity.
It’s more comparable to German Pro A and Leb Gold. The Spanish style is based more on IQ and less on athleticism, France is a track meet for 40 minutes.

You lived in a small town called Golbey about 100 kilometers from Germany. What were you able to take from the French culture and from the court in the short time that you were there?

I was actually able drive to Cologne once even to visit some old friends. As far as the French culture I loved it, it’s very similar to where I was born in Quebec City and of course being as French is my first language it was nice to understand the language for once.Last season in Spain it was difficult because my coach didn’t speak English, but it was still amazing to see how his passion still translated to the 5 foreigners.

You were a starter and averaged 28 minutes per game. Why was your stay so short? Were they expecting more scoring from you?

– Honestly, I’m 28 years old now, the coach saw my tape before I came, he saw me for 3 months in practice and pre-season. I can score 16, 9 rebounds and 6 assists against a Pro B team and the next game give you 8 points and 15 rebounds but chase around the point guard for 38 minutes and hold him to 3 points. Of course I could of scored a bit more but that’s never been my full impact, scoring is not what’s kept me in Europe for 7 seasons. I’m a two way guy who impacts the game with more than just scoring. But all that gets lost in the equation when you lose 5 games to start the season and the organization is in full turmoil, the foreigner will always take the blame. I take full responsibility and know I could of played better, but everyone has to be held accountable eventually from top to bottom.

You landed in Slovakia (SBL) after France and played with American KC Ross-Miller who also came from another team, but was integrated well and playing well. You have seen so many talented guards in your career, but is he a good example of a guy having talent, but just having problems of moving up the basketball ladder because of the huge influx of guards that are around the world?

Oh for sure KC is my guy. He’s definitely an NBA talent and you have to be to play at schools like Kentucky and Auburn. I think with KC his year off from basketball kind of hurt him but he’s been making up for it his last 3 seasons. I have no doubt you’ll see him in a top league in Europe very soon.

You made another move in January to Al Mina (Iraq-IBL). This seems to have been a better fit as you are still there now. How long does one have to think about going to play and live in a country like Iraq? How did you make this decision?

After I did my research and spoke to a lot of Americans who played there in the past I was confident and comfortable enough to go play there. A guy there who previously played in Germany, Isaiah Sykes, really helped me a lot in my time there. He’s a veteran of that league and really helped my decision.

Obviously the money must have been good. What other reasons did you see benefit for moving to Al Mina (Iraq-IBL)

Of course to go to a country like that the money has to be good but it was also a chance to get out of my comfort zone and try a new experience. I had never played in the Middle East before. You only grow as a person and player when your put in difficult situations and I think I accomplished that there.

Talk a little about the IBL league in Iraq. It is a very small league with few teams. How is the style and talent level in this league compared to other leagues that you have seen?

Actually not as small as you would think, there’s 12 teams there. Each team is allowed to have only two foreigners but only one can be on the court. Each American is a very high level American and is expected to score a lot. Every game it’s a lot of pressure, they expect you to score 20-25 points every game. The local players were also better than I expected, many of them have played for their national team.

How much different is the culture and life style in Iraq compared to other countries? How does a normal day look like for you?

That’s one thing I can say about Iraq is that for the first time I really felt a culture shock. I’m usually very good at adapting to different cultures with now having played in 10 different countries. Iraq is very restricted, they really respect their religion. No women at the games, no alcohol, no pork, no coffee shops to grab a coffee so you really can’t do as much as you would like, but it gives you time to focus on yourself. A regular day is pretty simple, I would wake up eat breakfast then go get a workout in the weight room at about 10 come back to the apartment. They always deliver lunch and dinner do the apartment, so I would eat lunch then get ready for practice at 5, come home eat, watch a show, sleep and repeat the next day.

I saw you finished the season averaging 30 ppg, 15.3 rpg and 4 apg in 8 games. Please talk a little about how you have been playing and how beneficial is the whole basketball experience for the continued development of your game?

Like I said when you go there they give you a lot of responsibilities which is exactly what I wanted. I was expected to score every game and rebound while also guarding the other American for 40 minutes. For me it was great, I went there and we went 6-2 in my time there, we were able to finish in the top 5 in the league which was their goal. It helped me regain the aggressiveness I had in pre-season in France.

What was your coolest experience in Iraq? One thinks of all the palaces and the luxuries that are present. Have you seen anything there that you will be able to tell over and over when you are back home?

Honestly in the time there I didn’t see too much, but I will say that seeing Baghdad was pretty cool. It’s nothing like what they show you on TV. I was in a city called Basrah, about 5 hours away from Baghdad which is the capital. For me I’m all about experiencing things for myself. I’ve never been ignorant and pre judged a place and that’s the correct thing to do when you go to a place like Iraq you got to go there with an open mind. The fans and the people there were amazing, my teammates as well. One of my teammates really marked me, we called him Jimmy ( Mohamed Diab). He’s a veteran, played national team for Iraq, he’s probably 38,39 years old and still giving you 15-17 per game but the thing about him he’s so professional and so positive through everything. He was always in my ear during the game talking and pushing me, so shoutout Jimmy.

Talk a little about the Congolese national team. You last played with them at Afro Basket 2017. What is your future with the national team?

I’m still involved with the National team, if everything goes as planned I should be going to Congo this summer and playing in the AfroCAN this summer which is similar to the Afrobasket.

How do you believe has your game grown this season having been able to see new leagues and gaining added experience?

Every year I like to look back and see what I added to my game. This year I can say that starting the season in France and playing point guard there is something that helped me see the game in a different way. I’ve always been versatile able to guard 1-5 but going up against P ro B and NM1 teams and having high level athletic guards like Marquis Addison and Javier Forcada pressure you full court the whole game and having to learn on the fly can only benefit my game for the future.

Please name your five all-time best teammates in college and pro’s

– Damn that’s tough, I’ll go with:

PG: Akeem Scott, 12 year Pro (Europe, Asia, Latin America) 
played with him in Canada with the London Lightning, that’s my big brother. Plays 100% at all times. Will never forget being down 3-1 in the NBL Canada finals, he was dealing with the death of his mother and he willed us to a game 7.

SG: DeAndre Lansdowne, good friend of mine since I was 16, my high school teammate and teammate in Germany at Herten. Having a great season in Germany again.

SF: Darryl Ashford, My college teammate in JUCO my freshman year at Jacksonville College in Texas.
This guy man, was a killer, baby T-Mac. Had some pro years in Belgium.

PF: Akeem Wright, another guy I played with in Canada in London. Was my roommate, played the same position. We played one on one every day after practice, after talking smack for a whole 2 hour practice, almost came to blows many times lol. But that my big bro, a lot of respect for his game and his career, 10 + year vet. Baby Melo.

C: Herve Kabasele, played with him in the Congolese national team. Now playing in the Spanish ACB. This guy is a like a monkey with NBA athleticism. Still 
young so you could possibly see him in the NBA.

It’s still so early, but when all is said and done could Luka Doncic be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA?

Yes it’s definitely still early, but I saw him play live last season in Spain and he’s definitely special. I warned people back home about underestimating him and they still did. This season he proved a lot of doubters wrong so he’s definitely on the right trajectory to become one of the best Europeans ever. People don’t understand how difficult it is to win Euroleague and ACB MVP as an 18 year old is, might be harder than winning rookie of the year. 

What was your reaction when you heard that Lebron James named himself the greatest of all-time?

Lebron is my favourite player and that’s the mindset you have to have, I believe him but I think Jordan is untouchable because of everything he accomplished. I think you can say Lebron is the most complete and greatest physical specimen we’ve ever seen in the NBA though. 

Charles Barkley recently proclaimed that Tom Brady Is more of a GOAT than Michael Jordan. Do you share his opinion?

Hmm it’s close, but it’s difficult to compare different sports but Jordan I’d say is more of an icon he’s had a huge impact off court as well.

Tom Brady won sixth Super Bowl. Where will he be if he wins a seventh next season?

I think he’s already the greatest of all time in the sport. A seventh would just be icing on the cake.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Collateral Beauty with Will Smith.

Thanks Eric for the chat.

Pete Strobl has been around the European basketball scene for 20 years having had a stellar professional basketball career and was an assistant coach for German easyCredit BBL team ratiopharm Ulm last season. He recently was named head coach of the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig. He played at Niagara (NCAA) from 1997-2000 and then had a 9 year professional playing career that took him to countries like Germany, Austria, France, Ireland, Iceland and Switzerland. He founded The Scoring Factory in Pittsburgh and wrote a must read book called Backspin. He is a very interesting basketball mind that doesn´t shy away from speaking his mind especially on Twitter. German Hoops and Pete Strobl will team up every so often talking basketball with the title “Current basketball affairs with Pete Strobl. You can follow Pete Strobl on twitter @petestrobl

Tell us about some of the changes in your basketball life since last time we talked?

There have been some huge changes since we spoke last. I’m excited about the opportunity to be the Head Coach of Basketball Löwen Braunschweig. I’m a big believer in goal-setting and then systematically working toward ensuring that goals actually come true. Being a part of Ulm was wonderful and we made a lot of great memories there. But as the playoffs wound down for us, I knew I was ready to take the next step in my coaching career. I had grown to have a desire to lead a group with my own style and philosophy. Sometimes you have to literally speak your dreams into existence and I’m very honored to be in a position now to put my stamp on a program. 

You have signed several German prospects recently, is that a part of your philosophy?

Developing players and in particular German prospects is a very big part of my overall philosophy. I’m not sure people even realize how much talent is coming up through the ranks right now in Germany. There’s been some great work done on the youth levels the past few years by a number of clubs, and there are some talented guys just waiting for a chance to show what they can do. I simply want to help them, and our club, take the next step. I plan to push these guys closer toward their personal potential while providing a solid platform for them to shine on the brightest possible stage. We’ve already signed some players I’m really excited about and expect for them to become household names in our league!

What can the league expect from Braunschweig this season?

A team that plays together and competes with fire, energy and heart. We’re going to put players in a position to demonstrate their individual abilities in a “team first” environment built on a culture of trust and support. Players who work hard and demonstrate a willingness to learn and grow will earn the freedom to play beautiful basketball in arguably the best league in Europe. I love what we’re doing and have enjoyed every step of the process thus far. We’re building for the future and we have big plans for how we want to develop over the next several years to truly establish Braunschweig first as a consistent playoff contender, and next as a representative of the BBL on the international stage.

Erik Durham is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Springfield Missouri that completed his second professional season and first in Germany with the EN Baskets Schwelm averaging 15,3ppg, 4,6rpg and 2,9apg while shooting 45% from outside. Last season as a rookie he played with Levitec Huesca (Spain-LEB Gold) playing 12 games averaging 3.8ppg, 1.3rpg. He began his basketball career at Parkview high school and then played at Lamar St.CC (JUCO) from 2013-2015 playing a total of 62 games. He then played at Jacksonville St. (NCAA) from 2015-2017 playing a total of 56 games and as a senior played 34 games averaging 10.7ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 47.0%, FT: 66.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com at the end of his season in Germany.

Erik thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Despite getting swept by the Bayer Giants Leverkusen, how proud are you of the extreme hard effort the team gave in the series?

My team really came out to play in the post season and it was fun giving the effort we did to go try to win games. 

You guys came really close at the end and could of forced a third game had German Niklas Geske hit the last three. Do you feel like winning that second game could have made the big turnaround in the season?

It would have been nice to force another game but we fought hard and did all we could do as a team and I’m proud of how we played as a team.

The EN Baskets Schwelm really played the Bayer Giants Leverkusen tight in the series. When looking back at the series what do you think was key for them being able to advance?

They have played well all season and I tip my hat off to those guys on how the team has all bought in. Showing from the stats that everyone has a similar average the team is very selfless.

You played your first season with the EN Baskets Schwlem. How would you personally summarize the team season. Would it be fair to say that the team played it’s most successful and best basketball at the start of the season?

We had our ups and downs throughout the year. I think we showed that we were better than our ending rank for the postseason with our efforts in the playoffs against the 1 seed.

The team ended 2018 well with a three game winning streak, but then began 2019 slow with a four game losing streak. Why do you feel couldn’t the team keep it’s winning ways going into 2019?

As a team we struggled being consistent throughout the year so it wasn’t anything we hadn’t faced before. I like how we came together and got the job done on finishing strong to make it to postseason play.

What do you feel was the season highlight for you? Possibly winning the derby game against Iserlohn or against top farm team Bernau?

This season alone was a highlight for me. After the rookie year I had last year this year was a complete turn around. I appreciate Coach Falk on giving me the chance to show my talents.

Let’s talk about your teammates. How much of a pleasure was it playing with German Niklas Geske? After five years in the BBL, he took a radical step backwards and destroyed in the Pro B. What did you enjoy most about his play?


Nick showed me his toughness on the court by the end of the season. When the playoffs came we both had the same mind frame on wanting to go try our hardest to win some games in the post season. I enjoyed Nick not only as a player on the court but off the court he was a pretty cool guy.

Let’s talk about your game this season? After a tough rookie season in Canada and Spain you made amends in Germany. How happy were you with your personal season?


I am just blessed to be able to still play the game I love. This season I really got the chance to prove that I was a professional. I look forward to bettering my game and improve each year I get the chance to play.

You stated in our last interview that your shooting would make an impact on the team and it did. How content were you with your ability to shoot the ball this season?

I am really happy with my shooting averages this season though it would have been nice to hit that 50% from 3 milestone at the end of the season. That just gives me something to strive for next year.

You also stated once that ‘A lot of shots have been put up and many nights of shooting even when I’m not hitting has helped me become a better shooter. The efficiency has come from shooting until I literally can’t put up another shot. So much shooting makes putting up a three feel like second nature’. How do you feel did your shot progress in your second professional season?

I saw an improvement with my consistency this season. I plan on becoming more efficient each year I play as a professional. So it’s back to the gym and even more shots getting put up.

You stated in our last interview that you felt that defense is a hidden strength in your game. How do you feel did your play on the defensive end grow with the EN Baskets Schwelm?

I believe my defensive abilities were tested some throughout the season and it made me an even stronger defender. Getting better at the things I can on the court is my main goal in everything I do.

What was your favorite personal game this season? Possibly the 28 point game in the win over Wolfenbuettel or your 24 points and 10 rebound game in the win against Oldenburg?

Both of those games for me were big. I want to thank my teammates for those games as well. Can’t do that without them getting me the ball. 

What is the next step for you? Could you imagine remaining in Germany playing Pro B or Pro A?

Right now the next step is to just get my mind right and enjoy some time with my family. Remain in the gym and just pray and stay focused.

It’s still so early, but when all is said and done could Luka Doncic be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA? 

I could see that happening because even Dirk holds him very high and believes in him. Never know though I do hope for the best in his career.

Do you think that the New England Patriots and Tom Brady Can Win A Seventh Super Bowl and where would Tom Brady then stand with the greatest athletes of all-time?

I’m actually a TB fan so most definitely I believe that. As far as the GOAT I don’t like to get in those talks because they always vary and we will never know the true greatest. It’s all on opinions.

What was the last movie that you saw?

At the moment the fast the furious.

Thanks Erik for the chat.