Malcolm Delpeche is a 22 year old 203cm forward that was born in Wilmington, Delaware, but also has the British citizenship and will play his second professional season with the WWW Baskets Muenster. He played at Bates(NCAA3) from 2013-2017 playing a total of 100 games. In his senior year at Bates, he played 24 games averaging 13.2ppg, 8.8rpg, 1.5apg, 3.1bpg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 63.1%. Last season as a rookie he played with BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 24 games averaging 13.9ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 51.7%, 3FGP: 37.5%, FT: 64.0%, in Mar.’18 moved to Bristol Academy Flyers (United Kingdom-BBL) playing 12 games averaging 6.2ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 54.5%, FT: 70.0%. He spoke to German Hoops earlier in the summer about basketball.
Hi Malcolm, thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?
Right now I’m currently in Wilmington, Delaware. My summer has been really good thus far! I’ve enjoyed catching up with friends and family members. In addition to getting the chance to really focus on my game and make sure that I’m coming back better as a basketball player than I was last year.
Welcome back to Germany. Congrats on signing with the WWW Baskets Muenster. What were the main reasons for coming back to Germany and signing with the WWW Baskets Muenster?
I’ve decided to come back to Germany for a couple of reasons. For one, I definitely feel more comfortable being here now that I’ve already played here for a full season last year. I also enjoyed my experience in Germany last year, and would like to further indulge myself in this country. I chose Münster for a couple of reasons. As many might know Münster competed in the same league as us last year in Regionaliga 1 West. They were one of two only teams that beat us last year. And the only team to deny us single victory all season. Despite the agony of defeat, I also saw a lot to love about the Münster Club. Some of these regarded to how the team was run, their playing style, and their commitment to success.
TJ Bray is a 26 year old 196cm guard from New Berlin, Wisconsin that is in his fifth professional season and first with Rasta Vechta (Germany-ProA). He began his career in 2010 with Ivy league school Princeton (NCAA) and played a total of 115 NCAA games and as senior played 25 games averaging 18.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 5.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 64.9%, 3PT: 41.7%, FT: 80.1%. He turned professional in 2014 and played with Lighthouse Trapani (Italy-A2) playing 29 games averaging 9.5ppg, 3.9rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: In his second professional season he played with Novipiu Casale Monferrato (Italy-Serie A2) playing 35 games averaging 14.7ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 80.8%. Two seasons ago he got experience with Fit Brussels (Belgium-Euromillions League) playing 33 games averaging 8.2ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 62.5%. Last season he played with Kolossos H Hotels (Greece-A1) playing 27 games averaging 12.1ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 76.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about basketball.
TJ thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?
I’m living in Milwaukee for the summer. Milwaukee is home for me and it’s been great being back here getting to see my friends and family, working out, and playing some golf.
Welcome back to Germany. You were briefly with the MHP RIesen Ludwigsburg in 2016, but early season knee injury ended your season in Germany. How often was Germany on your mind in the last 2 years and the thoughts of coming back one day?
I thought about Germany a lot the past two years. I was very excited about my contract with Ludwigsburg and it turned out that I was correct in being excited. They’ve had two great seasons, in both Germany and Europe, so I was able to follow them very closely. The league as a whole has always interested me with the amount of success teams have had in European competitions. I think it’s a very good league from top to bottom and I’m excited to experience it.
Even though I have hardly any free time with my seemingly endless basketball work, one day I decided to organize my player photos a bit better considering that with my new book concerning my basketball life in Germany will be released soon, I will want to add some of my memories with players to spice it up. I may not be totally accurate, but I believe my first picture that I ever took with a player in Europe dates back to the summer of 2004 and the BBL final series between the Opel Skyliners and Bamberg where I had to fight my way past security to shyly ask Tyrone Ellis if he could pose with me as nobody knew me then whereas today when I´m in the Fraport arena, I perform small talk with a majority of the security personal as that place has become like a second home to me. Over the years I have continued to take photos with players simply because I´m one of those guys that enjoys to have those memories for a lifetime. My fascination and craving of photos actually dates back to my childhood when I began to collect autographes and take photos with players as back then I just loved sports, played it after school with my friends and like so many other young kids was dreaming to be like a Larry Bird, Jim Rice, Peter Mcnab or Stanley Morgan all great Boston sports figures when I was growing up. My most cherished basketball photo from my childhood is with the great Bernard king who didn´t hesitate to pose for with a kid right after suffering a brutal seven game series loss to the Boston Celtics in 1984 where he almost single-handely disposed the green machine averaging 34,6ppg in the exciting series. Since basketball became a big part of my life in 2003 in Germany and I have been reporting about German basketball since then, I continued to take photos all through the years and just as I have recorded over 1000 player interviews in my 15 year career, I also have taken probably just as many photos or even more and have a very nice collection. The quality also has very much improved over the years as I have always been old school and probably was one of the last guys on earth that moved from a normal camera that only produced print photos to a digital camera not too long ago, so there are numerous photos that have very bad quality, while others are of better quality as they were made after I made the switch. With this vast collection of fine basketball player photos that I have, I decided it would be a neat idea to share those prints and add a little story about the career of the player with the heading “The Miles Where Are They Now Player Feature”. This is a feature that I will bring regularly and not necessarily every week, but moreover when I have some time to be able to invest some good spent time to looking back on a players career. It will most likely always appear on a Thursday in conjunction with the famous throw back Thursday term. Some guys that will be portrayed here, I had no personal relationship with except taking a photo, while other guys I had a personal relationship
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber posing with New York Knick Bernard King outside the legendary Boston Garden after he and the New York Knicks lost a tough 7 game series to the Boston Celtics in 1984 averaging 34,6ppg in the seven game series
Joe Lawson is a 25 year old 201cm forward from Indianapolis, Indiana that will begin his fourth professional season and first with the Crailsheim Merlins. He played his first three seasons in the German Pro A. In his rookie season he played with the BiG Oettinger Rockets Gotha (Germany-ProA) playing 38 games averaging 11.6ppg, 4.9rpg, FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 69.4%. IN his second season he moved to the Ninners Chemnitz(Germany-ProA) playing 40 games averaging 15.4ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 81.4%. Last season he remained with the Ninners Chemnitz(Germany-ProA) playing 27 games averaging 12.9ppg, Reb-2(7.7rpg), 1.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 80.7%. He played at Indiana SE (NAIA) from 2010-2012 playing a total of 56 games and then moved to Indianapolis (NCAA2) where he played from 2013-2015 playing a total of 60 games and as a senior played 31 games: 19.2ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 32.8%, FT: 78.0%. He talked to germanhoops.com during the summer about his basketball career.
Joe thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?
No problem Miles I´m currently in Indianapolis working out preparing for next season. The Summer has been very busy between visiting family and playing ball in Las Vegas.
Our last and first interview happened in your rookie season with Gotha in November 2015. How has time flown by since then and is Germany your second home now?
Yes time is flying and I´m headed into m 4th season as pro. yes you can call Germany a second home. All my years as a pro I have been there and I’ve met people in Germany that I will stay in touch with for years to come.
Congrats on signing with new easyCredit BBL team Crailsheim. It isn´t often that Pro A players make the jump to the BBL, but many dream about it. Is this like a basketball dream come true for you as you will measure yourself against the best big men in one of Europe´s best leagues?
I believe if you keep working hard no matter what level your at you will end up where you need to be. I definitely been waiting for this opportunity and I´m not afraid of the challenge that’s before me.
After the huge 105-63 destruction that the Telekom Baskets Bonn performed over their Pro B farm team Dragons Rhondorf, the always boisterous Dragon Dome emptied rather quickly with the possibly of some wanting to reach that café on the Rhein and enjoy one of the last real nice comfortable summer nights of the year. In the quiet gym, a trio of Bonn Americans of James Webb, Charles Jackson and Rashad James came slowly slithering towards the VIP room as they almost combined for half of the clubs points and surely for them it was another normal day at the office, but if they truly knew that their new team was in the final again and would be looking for revenge the next day in the final against Wurzburg is more than unlikely, but as the final fast approached on Sunday, these guys were now aware of the revenge factor and had their game faces on. For s.Oliver Wurzburg they had had a tougher time reaching the final clawing out a difficult crunch-time affair against the Fraport Skyliners, but when it counted most they did the little things better especially in executing on one on one situations and being more aggressive on the boards and getting consistent offensive power from their ex Kansas(NCAA) ace Perry Ellis and getting timely baskets throughout the game from their guard power trio of Cameron Wells, Skyler Bowlin and Jordan Hulls as well as perfect role player Brad Loesing who Frankfurt could never really control over long phases of the game. Both teams were seeking that first title of the season and the Telekom Baskets Bonn would put a big dent into the Wurzburg ambitions of bringing home a second consecutive title as they controlled their destiny in crunch-time and were powered to the title by Mr clutch Rashad James who hit big shots in crunch-time and showed his scoring dominance leading all scorers with 28 points. Despite having just won a title even if it didn´t count, James didn´t bask in the glory of the win or his stellar play, but was already looking forward to the season and how good this team can still get. “We played very well and were strong as a team, but it is still early in pre season, but this win will continue to help us build. Our chemistry continues to be built and once we really start to click as a team, then we will be very scary”, warned ex Siena(NCAA) guard Rashad James. After the loss one could see it on all the faces of the Wurzburg players that they had expected so much more, but at the end of the day they couldn´t execute when they needed to. “We fought hard, but we missed too many open shots. It was just one of those days where they didn´t fall. When shots aren´t falling, then you have to do more at the other end, but we didn´t do that”, expressed 2013 NCAA finalist with Kansas Perry Ellis.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber interviewing Rashad James after he dropped 28 points in leading the Telekom Baskets Bonn to the 2018 Gezeiten Cup win over s.Oliver Baskets
The first quarter showed a strong Bonn side in the first five minutes while the Bavarian squad of head coach Denis Wucherer fought back hard in the last five minutes to shave a seven point deficit down to only two points. The Telekom Baskets Bonn got the quick lead 9-4 as James showed his presence early and just got aggressive and never let up for 40 minutes getting to the free throw line and finishing strong with a lay in. s.Oliver Wurzburg´s offense was stagnant in the first minutes so Cameron Wells had to create for himself and his quickness allowed him to score easily inside as he cut down the Bonn lead to 11-8. But the little Wells one man show didn´t faze Bonn as they upped their lead again to 18-10 as they got hot shooting from Montenegran Bojan Subotic and Charles Jackson and James getting to the free throw line. S.Oliver Wurzburg did close out the first quarter in fine fashion going on a 8-2 run as they got full German support as ex Bonn forward Florian Koch nailed a trey and ex Gotha forward Felix Hoffman also dropped a trey and made a tap in. The Telekom Baskets Bonn did keep the lead as New Jersey native TJ DiLeo scored giving Bonn the 20-18 advantage.
The one thing that every basketball team dreads is playing the first game on the final day during a tournament because that means they are playing for nothing, but pride as the two final teams can relax a bit more and rest their muscles while the two losing semi-finalists have to forgo a hearty lunch and play in the early afternoon. The Fraport Skyliners had a short recovery period after their disappointing 85-79 loss to s.Oliver Wurzburg as they had less than 24 hours to return to the court with a clash with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. It was obvious that Frankfurt was still very early in the pre season as they had some fine moments against Wurzburg, but that that feared defensive ensemble that head coach Gordon Herbert builds each season was still far away, but that is expected at this point of the pre season as the one on one defense and communication was a major work in progress. Their offense showed massive potential and Erik Murphy was a major bright spot that showed right away that he could do a lot more than shoot the ball and that his rebounding was efficient. So for the Fraport Skyliners meeting the weaker Dragons Rhondorf came just right for their team to continue to work on their offense, get some new added self confidence and also to work further on their shaky defense. For the Dragons Rhondorf meeting another easyCredit BBL team was another huge test that they most likely wouldn´t win, but just getting the experience to match against an ex NBA player, battle BBL legend Quantez Robertson and all the other talented players was like a gift where the young Germans and talented imports Raekwon Miller and Joe Mvoezolo could work on their game and match up against the best. Even if the Dragons Rhondorf made it a game for a quarter, they were unable to keep that consistent level as a nasty 24-0 run in the second quarter erupted the Fraport Skyliners in winning an immense lopsided game 99-36. After the big win head coach Gordon Herbert didn´t look happy or content, but the way he does after every game in that he knows that there is always room for improvement even after a 63 point drubbing of a Pro A team. “Our intensity was better on the defensive end and our team play was a lot better. It is hard for guys to find a rhythm when you play 12 guys so today we first played 10 guys and put in Vargas and Freudenberg in the second half. They gave us a lot of energy in the third quarter”, stated head coach Gordon Herbert. For the Dragons Rhondorf it was a worse performance than against Bonn where they lost by 42 points, but the club sees it as a learning experience and nothing else. “I thought we did many of the small things well, but we still have a lot of work to do. Important now is that we stay positive”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf head coach Thomas Adelt.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and ex NBA player Erik Murphy at the 2018 Gezeiten Cup
The Dragons Rhondorf came out focused while the Fraport Skyliners may still have had their pre game video session in their minds which Gordon Herbert had implied after the loss to Wurzburg and weren´t as focused on the court while the Pro B team rushed out to a 7-4 lead surprising the guests. Rhondorf spread the ball around getting baskets from Joe Mvuezolo, Alex Moeller and a trey from husky forward Yannick Kneesch, but the Frankfurt side didn´t let this minor shock effect their game as they got calm and started to move their offense which led to sound execution with a 20 footer from ex Chicago Bull Erik Murphy, a trey by ex Baylor(NCAA) sniper Brady Heslip and a lay in by Canadian rookie Trae Bell-Haynes as Frankfurt led 12-7 as their 8-0 run was only a preview of what would later happen.
That first weekend in early September typically is a horror for American school kids as it is that last weekend of freedom, that last time on the beach, that last moment to sleep until noon or to be able to catch your favorite TV show as after that the new school year starts and that whole cycle and lifestyle gets back to normal. However in the German basketball community that first September weekend isn´t a horror for kids or adults, but the signal that the new basketball season is not far away. In the month of September there are countless basketball tournaments across Europe where teams prepare their new plays while new players get integrated. One of the first well known basketball tournaments that commence each pre-season in Germany is the Gezeiten Cup in Bad Honnef in the Dragon Dome where Pro B team and farm team of the Telekom Baskets Bonn Rhondorf play their home games. This year the other three teams that were invited were of course the Telekom Baskets Bonn, Fraport Skyliners and s.Oliver Wurzburg. Of all the four teams, Rhondorf had had the longest idle phase as their inspiring season had ended way too early in mid march in the playoffs against Wolfenbuettel. The s.Oliver Wurzburg team played six weeks more as the Americans booked their flights home at the begin of May as they missed the playoffs. For the Telekom Baskets Bonn and Fraport Skyliners, they reached the playoffs, but both bowed out in the quarterfinals. The Telekom Baskets Bonn gave a good fight, but were swept by Bamberg while the Fraport Skyliners gave the mighty FC Bayern Munich a nasty scare taking a 2-1 games lead, but then were rudely squashed by the 2018 cup winner losing by 35 points in game four and by 20 points in game five. All four teams had busily shopped over the summer and fans were greeted by the arrival of some very well known and exciting players as Bonn had reeled in ex NBA player James Webb, the Fraport Skyliners had hauled in Canadian sniper Brady Heslip and ex NBA player Erik Murphy and Wurzburg ex Kansas(NCAA) standout Perry Ellis. The first game on the schedule was a clash between head coach Gordon Herbert and the Fraport Skyliners against his ex team and first team he ever coached in Germany Wurzburg which was in the 2000-2001 season. S.Oliver Wurzburg met the Fraport Skyliners in the first semi-Final and squeezed out a nail bitter 85-79 while in the second semi-final the Telekom Baskets Bonn demolished their farm team Dragons Rhondorf 105-63, but that was expected as their was a huge class difference between the BBL and Pro B team.
Elias Desport is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Stockholm, Sweden that will be playing his first season in Germany with the EN Baskets Schwelm (Germany-ProB). Last season he played with AIK Basket Solna (Basketettan) playing 3 games averaging 1.0ppg, 2.3rpg, in Jan.’17 moved to A. Desportiva Sanjoanense (Portugal-Proliga) playing 13 games averaging 13.2ppg, Reb-1(10.9rpg), 1.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 11.1%, FT: 43.8%. He began his career with KFUM Blackebergs IK (Basketettan) and also played with Taby Basket (Basketettan). He then lived 4 years in the states playing with St.Peter’s (NCAA) playing 119 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about basketball.
Elias thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment an dhow have you been enjoying your summer? Right now, I’m in Stockholm, Sweden. I’ve been working out a lot, two workouts a day but I’ve also had time to see my family, friends and enjoy the weather.
Congrats on signing with German pro B team EN Baskets Schwelm. How excited are you to be playing your first season in Germany?
Thank you! I’m very excited, hopefully the fanbase of Schwelm is excited as well.
What do you know in general about about the country Germany and it´s basketball? As a guy from Sweden, how have you followed the development of German basketball over the years?
I know that Germany is a basketball country and the level of basketball is very high. I’ve played against German youth level teams when I represented Sweden in the U18 and the talent level was very high. However, I can’t say that I’ve followed the development.
After playing in Portugal and England the last two seasons, you now will make your debut in Germany. How was the transfer market for you in general this summer? You signed early. You must have been very convinced about signing early with the EN Baskets Schwelm?
Well, I had a tough year last year in England. I was dealing with injuries and I didn’t get the minutes that I wanted and that I thought I deserved. Going into the summer, you have no clue what can happen and I knew that it might take a while before I received interest but luckily, Schwelm showed interest and the rest is history.
What sold you coming to the EN Baskets Schwelm? Did you have some talks with head coach Falk Moeller that helped make your decision easier?
I’ve talked with the head coach and the management over the phone and they all seemed nice and genuine. Also, after talking with my agent, I knew it could be a good situation for me to play for Schwelm.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re an athletic 204cm power forward that can score, rebound and play good defense. If you had to compare your style on the court to an NBA player which player would best describe how you play?
That’s a tough question. I believe I can impact the game in many ways on both ends of the floor. I’m a very underrated passer for my size as well but to be honest I don’t know who I would compare myself to. I just try to do the things necessary in order to win.
You had a monster season in Portugal in the second division as a rookie after often not being able to play a big role in the NCAA or for other teams as a scorer and rebounder as you got little minutes. Are your expectations to have a season like in Portugal again since you will get ample minutes in the German Pro B?
It’s hard to say because every team and situation is different. Portugal was very different from England and I’m sure Germany is going to be different as well. I expect to make the most out of my opportunity, win and take the next step in my career.
You didn´t get many minutes in England last season, but played at a higher level than in Portugal. How confident are you that you will be an impact player this season for the EN Baskets Schwelm?
I’m confident but at the same time I’m not expecting anything for free. I know I have to earn minutes just like any other member on the team. If I work hard, everything else will take care of itself.
You’re a guy that can fill up the stat sheet at ease, but what do you feel is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?
My passing. Definitely my passing. I like to get my teammates involved and I have good vision. Growing up, I used to play point guard because I wasn’t very tall, I think that’s where I learned to pass better and to see the floor. Also, my defense. I’m a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions.
Last season you played with the Surrey Scorchers (United Kingdom-BBL) playing 26 games averaging 4.5ppg, 4.3rpg. How do you feel did your game develop last season that will help you be that impact player in the Pro B?
I believe my game took a slight hit last year because of the reduced role I had. I learned how to stay professional throughout last years adversity, keeping my head down and just working. Staying in the gym and doing the things necessary to improve and get better.
How vital was it for you battling experienced American Gerald Robinson on a daily basis last season? How do you feel did you profit most form his game on the court?
Gerald is a physical guy so it was fun going up against him in practice every day. He knows how to score the ball, both in the paint and on the perimeter so it was always challenging to guard him but fun at the same time.
As a rookie you played for AIK Basket Solna (Basketettan) playing 3 games averaging 1.0ppg, 2.3rpg, in Jan.’17 moved to A Desportiva Sanjoanense (Portugal-Proliga) playing 13 games averaging 13.2ppg, Reb-1(10.9rpg), 1.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 56.8%. How tough was your rookie season back in Europe after coming from the NCAA those first few months back home? What kept you going in that time? For the record, I never had a deal with AIK. I was working out with them throughout the fall and winter after college just to stay in shape and then I played 1-2 games with them but I was never fully on board. But it was definitely tough when I didn’t have a job. I honestly thought that I wasn’t going to play anymore and I was going through a phase of depression. Then, I received the job in Portugal and I was back on track. However, playing there was also challenging because I had no social life at all so I felt really lonely at times.
With A Desportiva Sanjoanense (Portugal-Proliga) you made your real professional breakthrough. What did you learn about your game that season that you hadn´t known before that?
I learned how to be more assertive and aggressive every game. I had a bigger responsibility to perform in my rookie season that I’ve probably ever had.
What was it like being the only import player on a team that had only home grown players? It seemed not to be any kind of adjustment for you. Do you feel like your leadership skills matured more this season?
It was extremely tough because there was a constant language barrier with my teammates and coach. Most of my teammates were more interested in soccer than basketball. Like I mentioned earlier, I didn’t have much of a social life but some of the guys tried their best in order to made sure I felt like I was a part of the group. We went out to eat, went to bars, the beach, etc. It’s kind of hard to lead a team when you don’t even speak the same language.
You played at St.Peter’s (NCAA) from 2012-2016 and played a total of 119 games, but never averaged more than 3,7ppg in a season. Despite playing little, you had an enriching experience in the class room. How important was it for your development as a player and as a person to have made this decision to play four years in the NCAA?
You learn a lot about yourself in college and I believe that’s when you really mature and grow up. Obviously, I didn’t have much success on the basketball court and in hindsight, there are definitely some things I would’ve done differently. But I truly believe that everything happens for a reason. I learned a lot of new things about the game in college. The game is played so differently in the US compared to Europe. I feel like I’m comfortable in either system.
Do you ever think back where you might be as a player and person today had you remained in Euriope and never gone to St Peters?
Of course, I always reflect on things in life where I could’ve gone a different way and what that might’ve lead to. Sometimes I wonder what would’ve happened if I moved to the U.S. to attend high school and played in all these AAU tournaments. But I knew that I wanted to attend college, that’s something that I’ve always wanted to do and since I have family there, it was the right thing to do.
Some of your best personal games in the NCAA were against competitive schools Seton Hall and Tennessee Tech. What memories do you have battling against top players and really holding your own?
It was fun battling against some of the best. I remember my freshman year when we played Rutgers on their season opener. This was before the Mike Rice scandal and Rutgers was still in the Big East. The atmosphere in that gym was like something that I’ve never experienced before. I ended up knocking down two free throws at the end of the game to get the win. That’s something that I’ll never forget.
How did head coach John Dunne help groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?
Dunne taught me the importance of attention to the minor details, on and off the court, that you might not think about as a player but that are extremely important. All these minor details correlate to winning. He also taught me how to be more physical as a player.
Who won a one on one in practice you or Quadir Welton?
Ha ha. Q is my guy and he was a tough cover because of his long arms and great touch around the rim. We would go at it a lot in practice and pick up and it would be back and forth. He’s a better inside scorer than me but I’m better on the outside.
You were teammates in the past with Charles Barton Jr in Swedish national teams. How have you seen his development over the years and can he play in a top league in Europe soon?
Me and Charles are good friends and we always see each other during the summer to workout. I’ve known him for a long time and he has really put in work and the results speak for themselves.
Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA?
Probably Isaiah Whitehead. He was a tough guard with great strength and size. I’ve also played some other guys that didn’t make it to the NBA but that were really good. David Laury, A.J English, Justin Robinson, Momo Jones, Angel Delgado, etc. I’ve also played against Rudy Gobert, Davis Bertrans, Dario Saric in European competitions.
If you had to construct your very own NBA Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick old or new? Jordan, Kareem, Russell, Magic.
What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate about who is better Lebron or Jordan? As a player and stats Lebron owned him, but Jordan has 6 rings?
I try not to debate this topic because it’s impossible to reach a consensus. There are so many things to take into account, eras, NBA rules, opposing teams, play styles, skill set. Jordan and LeBron are two completely different players. I think the more interesting debate is Kobe and Jordan.
Tracy Mcgrady said that the Boston Celtics will be the Golden State Warriors of the future. Do you see that happening?
Two completely different teams, so I’ll say no.
Deandre Ayton was the #1 NBA draft pick in 2018. Do you feel that from sheer talent and experience that Luca Doncic should have been the real #1 draft pick?
You can’t teach 7’0 with that skill set so that was a no brainer in my opinion.
How did you follow the 2018 NBA Draft? How cool is it having two Germans being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers?
I kept up a little bit. I was more interested in who the Knicks drafted. They are my favorite team. I like Kevin Knox. I didn’t even know the Lakers drafted wto Germans but that’s cool.
Lebron James makes amazing passes in every game, but really showcased it in a game this season against the Los Angeles Lakers. He already is like a point guard, but if he played just point guard and concentrated only on playmaking how many assists do you feel would he average per game?
He could easily average over 10 assist per game in my opinion. He’s probably the greatest passing wing player this game has ever seen.
What was the last movie that you saw? Let me guess Black Panther? A Cabin in the Woods. I watched it on NetFlix and it was terrible.
Reed Timmer is a 23 year old 185cm guard from Wisconsin that is starting his professional basketball career in Germany with Pro A team Tigers Tuebingen. He had a stellar four year career at Drake where he left the school as it´s all-time leading scorer passing an ex Tuebingen player Josh Young. IN his senior year at Drake, he played 32 games averaging19.3ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 87.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about basketball.
Reed thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been coming along?
At the moment I am training at Drake University with their team. I have been training with them along with trainers I have back in Wisconsin so it has been a great summer so far. I have been able to see a lot of friends and family recently that I haven’t seen in a while which made me happy.
Congrats on signing with the Tigers Tuebingen. How soon did you know into your four year career at Drake that you not only wanted to be a professional one day, but had the abilities to become a professional? Possibly hitting Bowling Green for back to back 16 point games in your first two freshman games?
I knew that I wanted to be a pro pretty early on in my college career when I figured out I could have a lot of success in the NCAA. I knew that if I could compete with some of the best college players in the U.S., I could find a spot on a pro team once my collegiate career ended. There was not necessarily a single moment or game when I figured it out, it was just a thought that grew more realistic as I kept playing.
How tough was the decision for you to turn professional now instead of finishing up your pharmacy requirements? What are you most looking forward to as a professional player?
It was a very tough decision for me, probably the toughest one in the whole process. I still have 2 years left in pharmacy requirements, but Drake University and its faculty allowed me to pause my progress in the program to pursue this opportunity, so I took it. I am most looking forward to being a part of a team and a new culture that is different than college. Playing basketball as a job is something that I have always dreamed about and now it is coming true.
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball. Did you know coming in that Drake has sent many guys to Germany to play and that Josh Young had some successful years with the Tigers?
I have only heard positive things about Germany and its basketball. I know that the fans are very passionate and love basketball and I know Germany is a great country with a lot of different and fun things to do. It has a lot of great traditions and cities that I cannot wait to explore and be apart of. I knew that many guys that played at Drake have played in Germany and all have been pretty successful. Josh has been a great guy to talk to about the process and what it is like over there.
Going into the summer and after having a very successful career at Drake, how did you experience your first summer transfer period? Did you have ample offers and how competitive was it working together with your agent Gerrit of Scorers First and finding the right fit?
My first summer transfer period was definitely different to what I am normally used to. Gerrit was a huge help with the whole process and gave me great advice on how to handle everything. I cannot thank him enough for what he has done for me. I had a few offers from different countries but I trusted Gerrit’s judgment in finding the right fit with the Tigers.
Does the fact that you broke Josh Young´s scoring record at Drake give you extra confidence that you will be able to make an impact with the Tigers considering Young has had a very solid career in Germany?
I don’t think breaking Josh’s scoring record has much to do with success at the pro level. Playing at the same level he did in college gives me some level of confidence that I can make an impact on the same level that he has for so long.
What in the end sold you on signing with the Tigers Tuebingen. Did the combination of being very ambitious which you both share as they want to return back to the BBL help make your decision?
In the end, I knew that the Tigers had a great history of winning and were going to be playing at a high level this upcoming year. I think the basketball in Germany is very good and I think it will be a good fit for my game. Getting back to the BBL is definitely a goal and I think I can be a part of making that happen.
Let´s talk about your game. What really stands out at first is that you can really score the ball, but also know how to fill up the stat sheet. What other strengths do you have that wouldn´t qualify you as a one dimensional player?
Besides scoring and being able to fill up the stat sheet, I think my leadership and confidence along with being a high basketball IQ player would qualify me as more than just a one dimensional player. I believe being really strong mentally is vital to being a successful player at any level and I have that ability.
You’re a guy that can flat out score and have a lethal shot. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit your style?
I think the player in the NBA who would best fit my style would be Goran Dragic. His ability to score, pass and handle a team is very comparable to what I bring to the table. He is a very smart and effective player that I really like to watch and model my game after.
You once stated that there are three aspects to scoring. Attacking the rim, free throws and perimeter shooting. You stated you want to be aggressive, but stay under control. How much of a challenge is it for you being aggressive, but under control and what has been your secret to success besides having good discipline?
It definitely took me some time to be able to find the balance between being aggressive but doing it under control and being able to make the right decision. The more I play and get experience the easier it becomes. There isn’t a specific secret, but not pre-determining what you are going to do is very important and having a number of different moves/skills helps to be able to counter what the defense throws at you.
You played 125 NCAA games for Drake and scored in double figures in 102 games which is incredibly consistent and had only 9 games in your last three seasons where you didn´t score in double figures. How important has your passion and competitiveness been for your consistent game?
Passion and competitiveness are huge parts of who I am. I love to compete whether that is in a game, practice, or just shooting around in the gym in my free time. Being consistent is a result of putting in the necessary work in the off season and during practice to see it pay off during the games. That, along with having the mental ability to adjust game in and game out helped me achieve 102 games in double figures.
What were your fondest memories of Drake on and off the court. The teams didn´t win any titles, but what really did you get most out of the Drake experience on and off the court?
My best memory, by far, throughout my years at Drake were the relationships I built with my teammates and coaches. Those guys are like family to me and I would never trade them for anything. I enjoyed going to practice and competing with those guys every day and then going to hangout with them after. I always enjoyed winning on the road in terms of on the court memories. It is such a tough thing to do in the NCAA so every time we were able to do it I had an absolute blast.
You had so many great games and memories, but what was your biggest personal highlight? Possibly your 39 point explosion against Indiana State or in the next game your 4 point play buzzer beater against Missouri State?
My biggest personal highlight would have to be winning on the road against Missouri State and hitting the 4 point play buzzer beater to defeat them. My 39 points at home against Indiana State was also an awesome memory as well as being able to take Drake to their first post season game in over 10 years.
You never had problems making an adjustment to having a new coach as you had three in four years at Drake. How did head coach Niko Medved give you that last vital touch in helping groom and prepare you for a professional career in your senior year?
I went through 3 coaches in 4 years at Drake and was able to function well with each of them. Niko did such a great job with not only me but our whole team in instilling confidence in us as well as strategically putting us all in the right position to be successful. He knew my strengths and was able to call certain plays and run a certain offense that I functioned very well in and it made our team successful.
Who won a one on one in practice you or De Antae Mcmurray?
I did not play a lot of one on one last year but I would say I won the majority of one on one games against him.
You played against so many great players at the NCAA level, but which player was your toughest opponent that is in the NBA now?
The toughest player that I had to play against that is in the NBA right now would be Fred Van Vleet.
How does your 2018 summer work out plan look like? On what things will you be working on most so you will be fully prepared for your rookie season?
My workout plan has just been lifting 4 days a week, conditioning 2/3 times a week and basketball workouts every day. I have been trying to improve my quickness, extending my range and getting more efficient with different types of finishes.
If you had to construct your very own NBA Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick old or new?
I would choose Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, and Magic Johnson.
What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate about who is better Lebron or Jordan?
I think you cannot truly compare the two because they played in two different eras. The NBA today is drastically different than it was back when Jordan played. I think Jordan was a better killer in terms of scoring and competitiveness, but I think Lebron has a better overall game and is a better overall player. I am of course biased because I have been able to watch Lebron all my life and never got to watch Jordan.
Tracy Mcgrady said that the Boston Celtics will be the Golden State Warriors of the future. Do you see that happening?
I do not see that coming true because the Celtics best players have drastically different games than the Warriors players do. The Celtics could be the best team in the east for a long time but the Warriors are more talented and have more experience playing with each other.
Deandre Ayton was the #1 NBA draft pick in 2018. Do you feel that from sheer talent and experience that Luca Doncic should have been the real #1 draft pick?
I think that Luca has more experience against NBA like players and has a very high level of skill. I think Deandre Ayton was a better fit for what the Suns needed which is why he went #1 overall, although talent wise, Luca very well could have been #1.
How did you follow the 2018 NBA Draft? How cool is it having two Germans being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers?
I watched the whole first and second round. I think the 2 Germans that were selected by the Lakers will have a great chance to be successful pieces for them and will be able to help Lebron win some games
. Lebron James makes amazing passes in every game, but really showcased it in a game this season against the Los Angeles Lakers. He already is like a point guard, but if he played just point guard and concentrated only on playmaking how many assists do you feel would he average per game?
If he was surrounded by a lot of shooters and playmakers, definitely could average over 10 assists a game if he decided to play more of a point guard role.
What was the last movie that you saw? Let me guess Black Panther?
Although I did see Black Panther and thought it was outstanding, the last movie I saw was Deadpool 2.
Ray Anderson is a 190cm guard from Wilmington, Delaware that was signed by WWU Baskets Muenster (Germany-ProB), but has left the team now on account of personal reasons. Last season he played very briefly with Maramajo Teguise Lanzarote (Spain-EBA). He played at Virginia Union (NCAA2) from 2013-2017 playing a total of 94 games. As a freshman he played 22 games averaging14.9ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.7%, 3PT: 5.6%, FT: 65.2%. In hiss econd season at Virginia Union (NCAA2) he played 18 games averaging 14.7ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 62.1%. In his junior year at Virginia Union (NCAA2) he played 30 games averaging 20.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 20.5%, FT: 74.5%. In his senior year at Virginia Union (NCAA2) he played 24 games averaging 17.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 3.4apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 75.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about his basketball career.
Ray thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how was your summer?
Hello Miles, and no problem at all. I am currently in Münster, my summer was okay
How tough was the last year for you playing only a game in Spain. Do you in a way still feel like you haven´t started your professional career and are a rookie?
Last year was a little rough but I believe that everything happens for a reason. And I also feel as though I haven’t started my professional career yet
How big is your chip on your shoulder now? How badly do you want to show the people in Germany that your more than just a player, but an impact player?
The chip on my shoulder has always been big just coming from Wilmington Delaware, which is a state with great talent but we tend to get overlooked by the bigger states
Congrats on signing with WWU Baskets Muenster. It was very late in the summer that you finally found a team? Did your lack of play last season effect this summer´s transfer period for you and teams wanting your services?
Thank you so much! Yes I believe my lack of play last season effected teams not wanting my services because I kind of fell off of the radar
The WWU Baskets Muenster wanted your services and signed you. How blessed do you feel that you have received another shot and that this club didn´t give up on you?
I’m extremely blessed to have received another opportunity to play this game of basketball that I love. And I want to thank WWU Baskets Muenster for having me
Head coach Philipp Kappenstein was really interested in your services. He really lauded your focus. Has the last year changed your mentality more knowing that you can´t take anything for granted in the basketball business?
My focus has always remained the same
What sold you most on joining the WWU Baskets Muenster. Was the fact that they are a team riding a high having just moved up to the Pro B a reason for signing on the dotted line?
What sold me the most was how the manager Helge accepted me and made me feel like family. Sort of how my relationship was when I was at Virginia Union. A lot of team bonding
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball. Have you had any friends play here in the past?
I don’t know too much about Germany except that my uncle was last stationed in Germany before retiring from the Air Force. I’ve had many of friends play in Germany last season, AJ English, Tyaire Ponzo-Meeks and Malcolm and Marcus Delpeche
Let´s talk about your game. Your scoring really stands out, but so does your quickness. What do you feel gets mentioned more your scoring or quickness?
I feel as though my scoring gets talked about more
You’re a scoring guard that can really do it all. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I would say Russell Westbrook
You’re a terrific defender that is as quick as lightening and can easily step into passing lanes and make deflections and steals. Even if your having a bad offensive day is your defense something that is always able to pick up your offense?
Yes defense is something I rely on when I’m not having a good offensive game. You can have a terrible offensive game but should never have a bad defensive game because defense is nothing but effort
Your outside shooting is still a work in progress. You shot under 25% in your last two seasons in school. What kind of adjustments will you make to become a better shooter as a pro?
Reps reps and more reps
You’re a guy that can easily fill up the stat sheet, but what do you feel is a hidden strength that doesn´t always get noticed right away on the court?
I feel as though me getting out in transition and getting my teammates involved goes unnoticed sometimes
In your rookie season you played briefly for Maramajo Teguise Lanzarote (Spain-EBA). Was your rookie season a nightmare or just an unlucky experience?
It was just an unlucky experience
You played at Virginia Union (NCAA2) from 2013-2017 improving your scoring and rebounding each season. What were your fondest memories in school?
My fondest memory by far was graduating on Mother’s Day weekend and giving my mom my degree
You had so many great scoring games, but which was your personal best game? Possibly your 28 points in the narrow win against Bluefield State or your 32 points in your tight win against Virginia State?
32 points against Virginia state just because they are our rivals
How did head coach Jay Butler groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?
Coach Butler did everything to groom and prepare me for my pro career
Who won a one on one in practice you or Marcus Hoosier?
I haven’t lost any 1 on 1 match ups at VUU
How did your 2018 summer work out plan look like? On what things will you be working on most so you will be fully prepared for your rookie season?
Morning run and then straight to the court for some drill work, eat, rest up and go back to the gym in the evening for a lift and pick up games
If you had to construct your very own NBA Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick old or new?
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Lebron James
What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate about who is better Lebron or Jordan?
Jordan 1A Lebron 1B
Tracy Mcgrady said that the Boston Celtics will be the Golden State Warriors of the future. Do you see that happening?
I don’t think so but we will see
Deandre Ayton was the #1 NBA draft pick in 2018. Do you feel that from sheer talent and experience that Luca Doncic should have been the real #1 draft pick?
I’m not sure I haven’t followed Doncic much
Lebron James makes amazing passes in every game, but really showcased it in a game this season against the Los Angeles Lakers. He already is like a point guard, but if he played just point guard and concentrated only on playmaking how many assists do you feel would he average per game?
He would average at least 10 assists.
What was the last movie that you saw?
Last movie I watch was Home Alone 2 lost in New York
German Hoops 