Josh Young is a 30 year old 185cm guard going into his ninth professional season and third with SC Rasta Vechta (Germany-BBL).  Last season he played Rasta Vechta (Germany-ProA playing 38 games averaging 9.2ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 46.6%, FT: 69.6%. He has had a solid professional career and played three seasons in the easyCredit BBL with the Tigers Tuebinbgen and also sampled Pro A experience with Vechta and Nurnberg. As a rookie he played with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen (Germany-ProB). Before turning professional, he played with Drake(NCAA) from 2006-201 playing a total of 126 NCAA games. Germanhoops.com has interviewed the American often in the past and felt it was time for a chat again earlier in the summer.

 

 

 

Josh thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you and how is your summer been going for you?

 

 I´m currently in OKC just working out and getting ready for the upcoming season. Things have been going well. It’s nice to be back home around the fam.

 

I have had the pleasure to interview you very many times, but I have to admit haven´t talked to you since the 2013-2014 season and thought it was time for a new interview. How much has time flown by since your last season with the Walter Tigers Tuebingen?

 

 It seems like such a long time ago but it’s amazing how quickly that time has passed. Many things have happened and changed since then but I’m extremely grateful to be where I’m at today.

 

Before we get to last season, I want to catch up with you a bit with the time from 2013-2017. After three very solid seasons in the BBL, you played the last four years in the Pro A with two seasons with Nurnberg and two seasons with Vechta. Was your career low having to leave Vechta the first time. How tough mentally was this for you and what made you stronger?

 

I think anyone who has suffered from a major injury (potentially career ending) understands how difficult it can be to always remain positive and keep the right perspective of things during a time like this. That time for me was one that really stretched me as a person and pushed me to my limits both physically and mentally. At the end of the day, I’m always competitive, so it was that drive that elevated me to be strong.

 

After establishing yourself as a solid BBL player, you played the last four seasons in the Pro A. How well were you able to accept playing in the Pro A? You must have had BBL offers in that time. Were the Pro A teams always the best situation for you at that time?

 

 My last season in Tübingen was a difficult one for us all, personally and as a team. I knew playing in the Pro A would allow me to regroup while still playing against good competition. So it wasn’t hard for me to accept. But at the end of the day, the situations in the Pro A were, to me, always better.

 

What memories do you have being teammates with Braydon Hobbs in Nurnberg when he was in his first season in Germany. Did you know then that he could land with a Euroleague caliber team like FC Bayern Munich?

 

Playing with Braydon made life on the court so much easier for all of his. He is still, to this day, one of the best passing PGs I’ve had the honor of playing with. If you’re open, he will find you. I knew he had the skills to play at a high level, but to make a jump from the Pro A to Euroleague is quite the feat. I’m really proud of him for building such an amazing career.

If someone had told you at the end of September 2017 that Vechta would win the Pro A title in May would that have been something you would have agreed with 100%?

 

Absolutely. I wouldn’t have agreed from a state of cockiness. There were some tough teams last season in the Pro A. But when I first met our group last August, I knew we could have a special season. Our chemistry on and off the court was unlike many teams I’ve ever played on. That combination, plus the individual quality and work ethic that we brought to the table, was a great formula for success.

 

Vechta had a great roster with a lot of talent, an experienced and great coach as well. When you look back at the season what was the biggest reason why everything clicked so well?

 

I almost answered this in the last question. I think the biggest reason was because we had such a solid group of experienced guys that knew their roles and were ready to do anything to help the team succeed. Guys were getting in extra time at the gym and the weight room. The work ethic was great. We were also a close knit group off the court and I think that chemistry translated into our game.

 

But seriously how challenging was going into every game knowing every team was gunning for you. Talk a little about how vital the team character was for the success?

 

When the league pegs you as one of the favorites to win it all, you play every night with a target on your back. I think it takes a certain level of character, humility and focus to play under these circumstances. We didn’t take teams for granted no matter where they fell on the Table. Each game to us was just another step to our ultimate goals. Our team handles that pressure well.

 

What will you always remember most about the 2017-2018 winning Vechta team that you will be able to boast to your grand children in 20 years?

 

 There were so many things that happened that season that I could talk about. But, my favorite personal moment was my poster dunk in the second game of the playoffs. I think it might have been the most unexpected thing to everyone watching that game !

 

Let´s talk about your teammates. How vital was having Seth Hinrichs on the team. Would Vechta have won the title had he only been a one dimensional scorer? Have you ever had a more versatile player as a teammate?

 

 Seth was the glue guy to the team. He did so many little things well and he’s really a force to be reckoned with. He just has a nose for the ball. He’s the type of hard nosed guy that anyone would love on their team. His versatility is also what makes him so special. He’s def one of the most versatile players that I’ve played with.

 

Your teammate Chris Carter said this about you in my interview with him recently. “Josh Young played a vital role in the success of our team. He was our vocal leader and gave us unmatched experience in late game situations. We all know he plays the game at a very high level, but people don’t see his leadership skills on a day to day basis. He was the guy that made sure we stayed focused and were ready to play every single game. One that led by example which is why he was well respected”. Would Vechta have won the Pro A without Chris Carter?

 

No. Chris was our floor general. There are so many things that are required of a great PG. Time management, reading the flow of the game, knowing foul situations, seeing who’s hot, being the first line of defense, and Chris handled all of this things at a level that allowed us to become champions. He hit 3 or 4 game winners for us this year. We aren’t having this conversation right now if Chris Carter didn’t play for Vechta last season.

You have played with many Germans over the years, but how important was Robin Christen for the success? He seemed like a perfect unsung hero player who did so much, but wasn´t recognized as much. How did you see his role on the team?

 

 Rob is a silent assassin. We call him Big Body. He’s a strong, physical player who can get in the lane and finish, post up, but will also shoot you out of the gym from 3. He came up big for us many times last season. Maybe it went unnoticed by some, but we all knew how important he was and will be to our team.

 

How did you see the two young Germans Philipp Herkenhof and Luc Van Slooten develop? These guys have huge futures. What did you appreciate most about their games?

 

Both players are big talents. Philipp played a significant role for us and he was easily the most improved player throughout the season. His development was pretty cool to see. Pedro worked with him both in the weight room and on the court. He has become a much more mature player. And Luc is of the most athletic players in the country at his age. He has good size for a guard and finishes well at the basket. I wish I could dunk like Luc because he makes it look effortless.

 

Let´s talk about your game. Last season you played 38 games averaging 9.2ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 46.6%, FT: 69.6%. How content were you with your game?

 

I would say that I played decent with the time that I was playing. For being a shooter, my FT percentage has to be much better than that. I think I could have had better numbers in each category but I always tried to play within our system and the most important thing was always getting the win. Because of that, I can say it was pretty successful.

 

One thing that stands out is that you became a better three point shooter in the Pro A. How have you become a better player in the last four years having had that Pro A experience?

 

I’m older. As I’ve matured as a person, I’d like to say my game has as well. The game slows down for you the older you get. I study the game more, watch Euroleague matches and constantly breaking down my own game film. Those things have helped me to become a better player over the years.

 

Chris Carter said it best in that you were an important leader on the court last season. Plus you are a dangerous offensive player. What kind or role do you envision having this season? Could it become greater simply because you have BBL experience?

 

 I’d Imagine that my role will be similar. Being a leader on and off the court. Bring good minutes, energy. Bringing all the guys together so that we can build some chemistry. I will do my best to help the team understand how important each game is for us.

 

How excited are you to be back in the BBL? Surprisingly your scoring averages decreased each season in the BBL with the Walter Tigers Tuebingen. Are you in your prime now at 30 and will be an impact player in the BBL?

 

 It’s an exciting time for me. I feel good and am just grateful for another chance to play this game, especially in a great league like the BBL. Hopefully I’m aging like fine wine.

How does a summer work out day look like for Josh Young in 2018? What type of drills do you do to help develop your shot further?

 

 I do a lot of shooting off the dribble and on the move. I also go through a dribbling circuit and try to work in groups where I can incorporate game like scenarios (ie drive and kick, pick and roll, transition shots).

 

How is Jacob Burtschi doing? He retired a few years too early in my opinion, but his body wasn´t holding up. When you look back at some of your battles in the BBL what do you remember most fondly?

 

Jake is doing well. He’s here in OKC working and still playing here and there. I remember him being a focal point of our scouting reports because he had what we call a “high motor” and he could shoot the ball extremely well. We used to have some great battles.

 

If you had to construct your very own NBA Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick old or new?

 

 Jordan, Wilt, LeBron, Magic

 

 

What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate about who is better Lebron or Jordan?

 

I think it’s hard to compare the two because they are so different. Each of them is better statistically depending on which category we want to compare. I grew up a Jordan fan but I know LeBron is easily one of the greatest to ever play the game.

 

Tracy Mcgrady said that the Boston Celtics will be the Golden State Warriors of the future. Do you see that happening?

 

Maybe In terms of exciting basketball, yes. They are young, talented with a lot of upside. They for sure will be contenders in the near future. Do I think they will be an unbelievable shooting team like GSW? 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?

 

 I think that Doncic easily could have gone #1 but I also know that teams draft according to their needs. PHX was in need of a big man, thus Ayton takes that spot.

How did you follow the 2018 NBA Draft? How cool is it having two Germans being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers?

 

 I follow every draft. I think that speaks to the development of Basketball in this country. A lot more Germans are playing on either an international stage or in the NBA. It’s cool to see the game expanding there.

 

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? Easily over 10.

 

 He would average a double double if not a triple double.

 

What was the last movie that you saw? Let me guess Black Panther?

 

 Close but no. The Incredibles 2.

 

Thanks Josh for the chat.

 

 

 

 

 

Brandyn Curry is a 26 year old 187cm point guard from Huntersville, North Carolina that recently completed his fourth professional season with Donar Groningen (Holland-Eredivisie) winning the double league and cup titles playing 37 games averaging 16.2ppg, 5.5rpg, Assists-3(5.2apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 90.1%. In the BCL, he played 6 games averaging 14.5ppg, 4.8rpg, 5.8apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 83.3%; and in the FIBA Europe Cup he played 18 games averaging  15.7ppg, 4.7rpg, Assists-2(5.5apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 78.3%. Two seasons ago he played with Helios Suns Domzale (Slovenia-Liga NovaKBM) playing 13 games averaging 11.9ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-3(5.6apg), Steals-5(1.7spg), FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 82.1%, and in the BCL, he played 12 games averaging 12.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 81.5%. In the 2015-2016 season he played with the he played the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-BBL) playing 27 games averaging 3.9ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.0apg. As a rookie he played for the SPM Shoeters Den Bosch (Holland-Eredivisie). He played 33 games averaging 14.9ppg, 4.1rpg, Assists-2(5.0apg), 2.0spg, FGP: 58.9%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 83.7%; and in the EuroChallenge he played 12 games averaging 16.2ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.9apg, Steals-5(1.8spg), FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 72.7% He played four years at Harvard(NCAA) playing a total of 113 NCAA games and as a senior played 23 games averaging 9.3ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 58.5%. This upcoming season he will play for ESSM Le Portel Cote d’Opale (France-ProA). He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about basketba

 

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

Hey Miles no problem at all. I’m currently in Charlotte NC. Summer has been great I’ve just been training in preparation for next season and I’ve recently just got engaged so its been a very eventful summer so far

The last time I interviewed you was before a Basketball Champions League game against the Fraport Skyliners in November 2016. How much has time flown by since then?

Man that seems like such a long time ago! Time really has is flying by like crazy. Cannot believe this is about to be my 5th season coming up this year

After a great rookie season in Holland, you couldn´t make the next step in Germany in the BBL, but played a solid season in Slovenia. Did you see going back to the Dutch Eredivisie as a step back? Was taking this step back difficult for your ego?

No I didn’t see it as a step back at all. After not playing a lot in the BBL and then having to come home halfway through the season in Slovenia I felt like playing for Donar Groningen was a great opportunity for me to get my career back on track. Making it to the final 4 in the fiba europe cup and winning the dutch championship was well worth it

Your 26 years old and have already won 4 titles in your professional career. Many guys haven´t won any as a professional. How blessed do you feel at the moment with how your professional career has gone?

I feel extremely blessed to be where I am in my career right now. Like you said not too many people win any titles during their entire career so I definitely do not take that for granted and I´m extremely grateful for everything thus far.

You have won all your professional titles in Holland with Den Bosh and Groningen. How much has Holland become like a second home for you now?

It is for sure a second home to me now. I have created so many great relationships with my coaches, teammates, and fans from both teams that will last a lifetime. Holland is such a great country to play basketball in and I have really enjoyed my two years there

Groningen had a superb season. Before the season started the club had won 5 titles in the last four seasons. Did you sense in the first few weeks that something special was brewing for the season? How present was that winning culture?

Yeah we could sense within the first few weeks of the season that we were on the verge of having something special as long as we stayed together. We were one basket away from defeating Estudiantes and advancing into the Basketball Champions League. After that game is when I knew we had a team that was dangerous. We had all the pieces talent wise but more importantly everyone embraced the winning culture which is extremely present at Donar

You lost only 4 games and went 8-0 in the playoffs which was a lot easier march than in your rookie season with Den Bosch where you experienced breathtaking close games. What was the secret to the success of this team? I think the overall team experience was key

The “secret” to our success was simply that we played together and really trusted each other on offense and defense. Experience was definitely a key factor for sure. We had a lot of talented veteran players who knew how to play the game the right way and were able to always execute Coach Braal’s game plan.

Let´s talk a bit about your teammates. When Jason Dourisseau was a rookie in Germany with Ludwigsburg in 2006, you weren´t even in high school yet. He came into the season having won 5 titles with Groningen and been there since they started winning titles in the 2013-2014 season. Do you feel like his leadership skills rubbed off on you that will help you in your career down the road?

Jd is an unbelievable leader and one of the best teammates I have had. He leads by example and really sets the tone for how a true professional handles business. He had a huge impact on me this past season. He always kept my confidence high all year by constantly telling me to just play my game and lead the team. I’ve enjoyed all of our convos about basketball and also life in general. I learned a great deal from Jd that I will carry with me the rest of my career

How important was it for your overall development having Teddy Gipsen in the backcourt? The guy is 11 years older than you and made a name for himself in Holland when you were a mere 13 years old and later in Germany with Paderborn and Bamberg. Was he like a big brother for you?

Teddy was definitely a big brother to me. He is another person I learned a lot from on the team. I still can’t believe that he is 11 years older than me but still moves and plays at such a high level. He has played at the top level in all of Europe and I am striving to get to where he has been. He has been a huge influence on me and I appreciate him taking me under his wing

You had so much experience around you and it didn´t end as point guard Sean Cunningham was another experienced guy. He didn´t score much, but filled up the stat sheet well and is a great defender. How did this guy effect your game on a daily basis in practice?

Man Sean is one of the best defenders I’ve come across and I was glad he was on my team this time around. I hated whenever he switched on to me in practice haha but it only made me better. He made my job so much easier this year and I definitely did not take that for granted. He always stepped up to the challenge and locked down pretty much every single tough guard we had to go against. If i’m ever picking a team he would always be one of my first picks

How special is your bond to Dutch national player Arvin Slagter? You were reunited with him again after winning with Den Bosch in 2014. How special was it having him again as a teammate?

Arv is my guy! I was so happy to team up with him again and we definitely became even closer this year. That was my workout partner, we were always in the gym after practice and on morning offs working on our game. He is another one of my favorite teammates I’ve shared the court with. Tremendous basketball IQ and one of the best shooters around. Its been a pleasure getting to win two championships with him. His career speaks for itself, he is just a winner.

Let´s talk a bit about your game. After having a solid season with Helios Suns Domzale (Slovenia-Liga NovaKBM) playing13 games averaging 11.9ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-3(5.6apg), Steals-5(1.7spg), FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 82.1%; and playing 12 BCL games averaging 12.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 81.5%. Did you feel some pressure going back to the Dutch league and having to find back to your great form from your rookie season with Den Bosch?

I definitely knew the expectations were high not only for me but for the team as a whole. As we talked about before there is big winning culture in Donar and the club is very ambitious. I was replacing a very good player in Lance Jeter, someone who has bought many titles to the team so I had to come in ready. It was good I already had some notoriety from my rookie season in Den Bosch but honestly that didn´t mean much once the season started.

You had a great season with Donar Groningen (Holland-Eredivisie) playing 37 games averaging 16.2ppg, 5.5rpg, Assists-3(5.2apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 90.1%; BCL: 6 games: 14.5ppg, 4.8rpg, 5.8apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 83.3%; In the FIBA Europe Cup you played 18 games averaging 15.7ppg, 4.7rpg, Assists-2(5.5apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 78.3%. Your stats were pretty much identical to what you did with Den Bosch. But you had a lot more talent with Groningen than with Den Bosch. How do you rate your personal play considering you had so many more scoring options last season, but were still able to put up huge stats which isn´t always self evident on top teams?

I think personally this was for sure my best season I’ve had thus far as a professional. I had a very great team around me and coach Baal really let me play my game. My teammates constantly told me to keep being aggressive and they really had my back all year long which was huge for me because as a point guard I care about how my teammates feel and everything. That a long with the fact I had so many weapons around me offensively and defensively just made it easy for me to do what I do every game.

How do you feel has your game developed further over the last four seasons? How is Brandyn Curry better today than after his rookie season in 2015 with Den Bosch?

I really feel like I’ve come a long way in these four years. I´m better in every area of the game without a doubt. Every year I’m seeing new things I need to improve on thanks to my coaches and teammates I’ve had. I have been consistent with the work I’m putting in and slowly but surely I’m starting to see the results. Still have much work to do and a long way to go as a player but I’m headed in the right direction.

This season you will play for ESSM Le Portel Cote d’Opale (France-ProA,). How excited are you with making another step in your career and playing in the France Pro A?

I´m very excited for this opportunity to suit up for ESSM Le Portel and play in the French League. I love how strong the league is and I know every night is going to be a battle. I know playing against this type of competition everyday will make me a much better player. Looking forward to the challenges ahead

ESSM Le Portel Cote d’Opale (France-ProA) moved from the third division to the France Pro B in 2007 where it played nine seasons. It moved up to the France Pro A in 2017 and last season finished in 11th place. What were the main reasons for choosing this team? Possibly it being a big challenge not playing for a top team and once again feeling the need to prove your self like with Bremerhaven?

A big reason for me choosing this team was that I had a chance to matchup with them twice. I had a really good game the first time and one of my worst games the second time around so they really had a good idea of the type of player I was. The coaches have a good idea of my strengths and I think I can do really well in their system like some of the guards that have played before them. I also love the fact we are not considered a “top team” just like Bremerhaven and I look forward to going to battle every night with my new teammates I will meet here shortly

The France Pro A is a top league in Europe comparable to the German BBL. How do you feel will you be better prepared for this challenge than three years ago with Bremerhaven where you never got a fair chance?

I have a much better idea of difference between leagues now than I did as a rookie. I didn´t really know what I was getting myself into when I went into the BBL and I also was not in the best situation playing time wise. It was a great learning experience for me though. I´m much more prepared this time around and also I’m simply a better player then I was going into Bremerhaven

When looking at the roster, you will be teammates with Moses Ehambe who played in Bremerhaven the season before you came. He has been considered to be one of the best shooters in the world. Will you be hanging around him more after practicing asking for added shooting tips?

I’ve heard great things about Moses from some of the people who have either played with him or against him. I definitely look forward to playing with him this season and you can bet I will be trying to learn everything I possibly can from a proven vet like himself.

You will be turning 27 in October. Do you feel like your are reaching your prime or is it still ahead of you?

I feel like my prime is still ahead of me but I’m closing in on it. Like I said before I’ve already come a long way in these 4 years but I’m so excited for the levels I’m about to reach because I´m just scratching the surface of where I can be in my opinion

The France Pro A is a very competitive league that presents great guards. Are you confident with your experience and title experience that this is the season that you can be an impact player in a top league?

I´m certainly confident that I can be an impact player in a top league. I love the fact that I will matchup with so many great guards and that will only make me better

How does a summer work out session look like for you in 2018? On what things will you be working on most this summer?

I do all my basketball workouts in the morning and then I do my lifting/running in the evenings 5-6 days a week. Im really working on my explosiveness, ball handling, and defensive footwork this summer in preparation for this upcoming season

You also have been focusing on things off the court. Talk a little about your affiliation with X vs O sports?

So I got introduced to X vs O Sports by Wendell Maxey. He helped me write my blogs I used to write my first couple seasons. They take any big play in any sport and re-create it using the classic Xs and Os format that coaches used to draw up plays on the clipboard. It’s a very cool concept and the shirts look great. They wanted to do a three part series for me for 3 different plays from when I was in high school, at Harvard, and this past season in Holland. Definitely check them out! https://xvsosports.myshopify.com/pages/about-xvsosports

If you had to construct your very own NBA Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick old or new?

I would pick some new and some old ha but mine would be Lebron, Jordan, Shaq, Kareem

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 am a huge Lebron fan and in MY OPINION Lebron is definitely a better player than Jordan. However, I feel like because of his final record and number of championships thus far he will never win the debate over Jordan with who is the Greatest of All Time.

Tracy Mcgrady said that the Boston Celtics will be the Golden State Warriors of the future. Do you see that happening?

I agree I think what the Celtics are building over there will be something special indeed if everyone is able to stay healthy. With Lebron headed out West they will definitely be the powerhouse of the East for these next few years

Deandre Ayton was the #1 NBA draft pick in 2018. But having been in Europe this season you must of seen some highlights of Real Madrid´s 19 year old stand out Luca Doncic who belonged to the best players in the Euroleague. Should a guy like that be the automatic #1 pick just from sheer experience and talent?

No I don’t think he should have been an automatic #1 and I think the first couple picks went how they should have. Doncic is a special player and I think he will be great in the NBA but its hard to not chose Ayton as your top pick. Will be interesting to see how their careers go

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 easily could break all the assist records including most in a game and most averaged per game in a season if that´s what he solely concentrated on. It´s really unbelievable the court vision he has and people take for granted that part of his game sometimes.

What was the last movie that you saw? Let me guess Black Panther?

Lol no but close. the latest Avengers movie was the last one!

 

Thanks Brandyn for the chat.

Raylonn Brooks is a 25 year old 180cm guard that recently played at the HowardHoops Tour in Hilden Germany. He is another one of many players on earth chasing the professional basketball dream. He got experience playing at Edmonds community college in Lynwood Washington, Centralia College and at New Hope Christian in Eugene Oregon. He spoke to Germanhoops.com about his basketball life.

 

 

 

 

 

Raylonn  thanks for talking to Germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and is the heat wave in Germany still minor compared to what your used to in the states in the summer?

 

I am currently in Dortmund at the moment, the heat is a major change out here because of the humidity. Back home in California it’s just dry heat and I can handle that. Humidity is a different story, we don’t have much of that back home in Southern California.

 

 

 

You just took part at the Howard Hoops Tour in Hilden, Germany. What kind of experience was this for you? How do you feel did the Howard Hoops weekend help you most as a basketball player?

 

Howard hoops tour in Hilden was definitely a reality check, but also a great experience. We all thought we were going out there to demolish everyone, but did the exact opposite. I feel like it helped in a way because I got to see a different pace in the game. They play different, than out here in the states. Meaning they play more as a team! Us on the other hand, seemed like everybody was just looking out for themselves. Completely selfish! You can’t win games, if there’s no team ball. Learned that team work makes the dream work, and if you do the little things your game will be noticed. Learned that anybody can score the ball. So I try and do the other things to make my game stand out.

 

 

 

 

You have little to no professional experience. With what kind of feeling did you go into the weekend concerning your professional future?

 

 

Going into this Howard Hoops tour, I knew I had to make a name for myself. I was nervous, anxious, but also very excited. Didn’t know exactly what to expect coming into the tour. I take pride in defense, so that was my main focus going into this weekend. My job was to make sure nobody can get passed me. I have no experience out here in Germany. I learned that if everybody thinks they can score try & do something else that stands out. That’s what I did. I take pride in defense and actually commit to locking down my opponent it can open up doors. Competing makes the game way more fun, and competitive, plus it gets you better. That’s all I’m about.

 

 

 

Exactly what kind of professional experience do you have and why do you feel has it been so difficult for you to find a team? Will you play for Ron Howard´s ABA team in Minnesota?

 

 

I have no professional experience. Currently in the process of looking for a spot on a pro team now. It has been very difficult to find a team, because of my resume. I didn’t come from a big school, and didn’t have much highlights. This passed weekend Ron Howard selected five men to be a part of his aba team in Minnesota. I was one of those five people. Although the tour didn’t go as we planned. I still was grateful for the opportunity and want to thank Ron for blessing me with another opportunity to play basketball. I will be attending his aba team in Minnesota.

 

 

 

How content were you with your game on the weekend in Germany. On what phases of your game do you feel were you able to shine?

 

 

This weekend I felt like I could’ve produced a little bit more, but overall I would give myself good credit because of the fact nobody could get passed me. I was trying to get my teammates involved as much as possible, throwing smart passes and making the right decisions. The defensive end definitely stuck out the most felt my game shining on defense because I was always at the right place at the right time.

 

 

Talk a little about you game. What are your strengths and if you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would you chose?

 

My strengths when it comes to basketball I would say is being a very talkative point guard, getting people in the right spots running the floor. Another strength will be my defensive game. I always have the mindset of nobody scoring on me and it shows out there on the court. I would describe my game as a mixture between Patrick Beverly, and Chris Paul. I feel that way because as like Patrick I take pride in defense. As like Chris Paul I can score when a team needs me to score, but mainly focusing on how to help my team win and get better.

 

 

How were you able to get adjusted to the style of play during the weekend? What do you feel was most difficult for you to get adjusted to?

 

 

I felt like I adjusted very quickly in the Howard hoops tour. They play much more aggressive, but also slower. I noticed they like to use that hook a lot. Most difficult to get adjusted to was the hooking, they most likely going hook 9 out of 10 times out here in Germany. Back in the states that would be a foul, so that definitely was the most difficult to get used to.

 

 

 

There were a lot of talented players taking part on both sides of the court with the Howard Hoops teams and the German teams. What players really stood out for you?

 

 

I saw plenty of talent this weekend. I like the German teams. They were much bigger making us work in the paint. Running an inside out game. We had no choice but to block out. But as far as playing like a team we looked terrible out there. German teams stood out more to me because of the fact that everybody on their team touched the ball before putting the ball in the basket. Which is called basketball and winning games. Going one on one looking off your teammates is what I felt the Howard hoops team did a lot, and that’s why I feel like we came up short.

 

 

 

 

 

How impressed have you been with the whole Howard Hoops experience. What stood out most for you during the weekend that you will never forget?

 

 

I have been very impressed with the Howard hoops experience. before going into the tour coach Ron let us all know what we had to do. Not everybody was on the same page locked and loaded. Listening was a major key and we weren’t all aboard. That is why we lost games. The thing that stood out the most is that there’s no I team. If we would’ve came together as a whole, things could’ve turned out way better for the Howard hoops players.

 

 

What was your impression of Howard Hoops CEO and tour coach Ron Howard. Did you notice quickly that he has extreme passion for the game and trying to help talented guys get noticed?

 

My first impression of CEO Ron Howard was that he is very hard worker, and a man of his word. I have been following up Ron a couple years now, and seen how many players he got signed and the people who actually believed and stuck with his plan is still playing today. Notice the passion for the game right away, he’s always thinking 3 steps ahead. Definitely think he is all about getting talented players out without getting anything in return. He understands how hard the grind is. If you can hoop he will get you signed, and I am a believer of that because I saw it with my own eyes.

 

 

 

The Howard Hoops tour has a good rate of placing players on teams. What is the next step for you? Will you test the professional market and would you be comfortable playing in a lower league somewhere? Did you get a try-out with Regionalliga team Dortmund?

 

 

I feel like if we would’ve came out here to Germany & did what we were supposed to do, then coaches would’ve been contacting Ron left & right. Coaches look for winners! The next step for me is to contact coaches, network and see if I can come into a practice for an opportunity to join a team. I will play anywhere, starting on lower division that will be perfectly fine. I need to just get my foot in the door  and get a start somewhere. I Just want an opportunity to get better, compete, and make everyone else around me better. Definitely will help any team out as much as I possibly can.

 

 

 

If you had to describe your game in a few sentences and why you could help any professional team right now how would you describe it?

 

 

 

I am a very competitive person, I try and make everybody I’m guarding better by going all out and competing. Paying good attention to detail, as a point guard I would be able to run the floor. I will make sure my teammates are in the correct spots on the floor. I’ll Push the tempo when it’s needed, as we continue to win games.

 

 

Talk a little about what college experience you have? You played at Centralia college. What positives did you get from playing there?

 

Centralia College was a very eye opening experience. Reason I say that is because, no matter where you’re at whether it’s school or a pro team you have to treat it like a business. I had to learn the hard way. Not everyone whether you’re teammates are not are on your side. They will throw you under the bus so they can succeed. Learned that no matter how good you may think you’re there’s always someone out there looking to take your spot. So you have to come to compete every day

 

 

 

A few years late you played at New Hope Christian in Eugene Oregon. But that was short as you didn´t have enough transferable credits. Did it feel like your basketball life was over?

 

 

When I found out I didn’t have enough transferable credits at New Hope Christian I thought to myself my basketball career was for sure done. Devastated ready to give up, but never gave up on the vision and continued to stay in the gym no matter what.

 

 

 

You went home quite a few times in the last years to help your mom out and worked. How important was this time being there for the family, but never ending your basketball dream as you kept it alive?

 

 

I was back home after New Hope, trying to help my mother out as much as possible. We weren’t the richest nor the poorest, but somehow we always made it happen and provided for one another. Family time is always the best time. I was working full time bringing in as much money as I could. I would also stay in the gym as well, because of the fact I still wanted to make a dream a reality. May have had a few setbacks, but not once have I given up on my dream of becoming a professional basketball player. I have people who don’t believe in my journey, but I’m here to prove everybody wrong & hope to continue to play the game that I love.

 

 

 

A juco player Jordan Brangers made waves at the Miami pro league and got signed by German top division team Eisbareren Bremerhaven. Does a story like this keep your dream alive that anything is possible that even guys from the JUCO can reach the top?

 

 

 

 

Hearing about the story of Jordan Brangers how he came from Juco & made waves at the Miami pro league to the top German league is very strong motivation. That definitely shows that if you stay committed and workout everyday your time will come eventually. You just have to keep faith, and stay in the gym. A story like this definitely keeps a dream alive, this just proves that anything is possible. The sky is the limit!

 

 

 

If you had to construct your very own NBA Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick old or new?

 

 

If I had to pick any 4 players from the NBA to build my own Rushmore I would select Chris Paul, Ray Allen, Kobe Bryant, and Shaquille O’Neal. Chris Paul because he does it all, but mainly love the way he runs the floor and gets players where they need to be. Ray Allen because he was always the best pure shooter to me in my eyes. Kobe Bryant, because he was the best scorer to play the game. Nobody else locked in the way Kobe did, known as the mamba mentality. A lot of players don’t have that in today’s basketball. I also chose Shaq aka Superman because he was definitely the best big man. He had crazy foot work, handles, and made some good decisions as a big

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate about who is better Lebron or Jordan?

 

 

 

My personal opinion on the never ending debate between Michael Jordan and Lebron James is that Lebron is all around player. I feel like he is better. He will fill up the stat sheet and bring you into NBA finals while playing team ball looking to get his teammates involved. Lebron is out of his prime still playing every game of the season and putting up huge numbers. Giving back, opening up schools, just overall a better person who actually cares about the community outside of basketball. Sets a very good example for being the best in the NBA

 

 

What was the last movie that you saw?

 

 

The last movie I watched was uncle drew with Kyrie Irving. Very funny, and good movie. I been following up on the series of uncle drew on YouTube for quite some time now. So when they finally made a movie in theaters it was a must watch for me. I’m a big fan of kyrie Irving, & his uncle drew series. Very creative work! Much respect.

 

Thanks Raylonn for the chat.