Greg Logins is a 27 year old 203cm forward from Sodus, New York that is playing his fifth professional season and first in Germany with BV Chemnitz. He started his basketball career with Canisius (NCAA) in 2007 where he played until 2011 and as a senior played 30 games: 11.8ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 45.4%, FT: 78.3%. In 2011 he turned professional and played for Barreteros de Zacatecas (Mexico-LNBP): 10 games: 7.5ppg, 4.9rpg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 9.1%, FT: 68.4%, left in Dec.’11, then joined RST Tanger (Morocco-D1) playing 15 games: 25.3ppg, 11.6rpg, 3.5apg, 1.2spg, 0.9bpg, 2FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 69.5%. He then played for Lappeenranta NMKY (Korisliiga) in Finland from 2012-2014. Last season he played for Fukuoka Rizing (Japan-BJ League): 30 games: 9.8ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 47.5%, 3FGP: 35.3%, FT: 70.6%, in Feb.’15 moved to Tapiolan Honka (Finland-Korisliiga): 10 games: 12.0ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 31.8%. He spoke to German Hoops after the huge 91-73 win against the Hebeisen White Wings Hanau.

 

 

Congrats Greg on the big 91-73 victory. How much of a relief was it finally winning again after sustaining a four game losing streak?

It felt really good to get the home win tonight at home in front of our home crowd. With the little losing streak that we had, it has been tough. With some little nagging injuries with players, had set back a little, but tonight we were a full roster, and back at it playing Niners basketball.

BV Chemnitz showed right from the start who was Sir in the house and the offense was clicking. What was working better on the offensive end tonight than the last two weekends in the losses to Gotha and Kirchheim?

We just played our game with confidence, and did the things we know we can do better. We hustled even harder, and executed well. The last past 2 games, we have done some really good things, but the outcome just was not as what we played. For the most part, we competed with those top teams, as a whole, we just have to continue to progress and finish off the games.

How key was it holding their work horse Kriuze Pinkins to 0 points and only 10 minutes? Usually when he gets his double double they win as of late.

Pinkins is a good player. He is the key factor to that team, and to get him out the game early, was huge for us. With him not being on the court bringing his presence, it allowed us to turn it up even more, and finish the game.

BV Chemnitz have a 10-11 record, but very close to the playoff places. Have you been impressed by the unbelievable competitive aura of the Pro A?

Pro A is a good competitive league, and has a lot of good players. I think that our team is better than what our record holds, and we are a dangerous team, with a lot of weapons. I believe if we continue to move forward from how we played tonight, we will be in a good position for the playoffs.

BV Chemnitz have defended very well this season giving up 69 points per game, but average only 71 points. Why can´t this team score more despite it´s offensive weapons?

I believe at times we are not as smart with the type of shots that we take. If we play fast ball and execute well, getting everyone involved, I believe we can put points up on the board.

What does BV Chemnitz have do better now in the stretch run to make the playoffs?

We just have to stay consistent, and bring it every night once that ball is thrown up in the air for the tip until the end. If we play our style throughout the whole game, we will be fine and it is enough to get it done.

Currently you are averaging 10,5ppg, 6,1rpg and 1,9apg. Have you been pleased how you have adapted to the German Pro A?

Yes, I am. Previous teams I have been on in different leagues, I play different roles as I do here. I like the position that I am in because we have a lot of weapons that can do things, and it does not put a lot of pressure on me, so I can just play my game and fit in. Joining the team late, It took me a little while to adapt and find my new role to the team, but now I am comfortable, and happy about what I am doing.

You are shooting 42,9% from outside and haven´t shot this high since your senior year at Canisius (NCAA). Has the good shooting been more a testament to your teammates finding you or your good shot selection?

Yes, my teammates do a great job, putting me in good situations to get good shots. I usually been shooting pretty solid my professional career, but this year has been a good year stroking the ball for me.

Besides winning, what personal goals do you still have this season for improving your game?

I just want to continue to have a high energy influence on my teammates and I want to be known as a good 4 man that can shoot, rebound, pass, defend, and bring a high level of energy.

How much of a pleasure has it been playing with work horse Nate Buss? Are you surprised that he needed no time to really adapt as a rookie as he has been on since day one?

Nate is a good player. He has definitely adapted to the game quickly over here. As a rookie, he is doing great things, and I am really happy for him. It has been great playing with him this far.

Dashaun Wiggins has been another rookie that has needed no time to adjust. How much credit does head coach Rodrigo Pastore get for shaping these rookies so fast?

Coach Rod is a good coach. He is a coach,that breaks the game down to the simplest facts for you and put you into good situations. I think the rookies adapt so well, because of coaches knowledge of the game. He emphasizes well on all the tactics and things we need to know as players, which puts us in good situations. As you can see, with the rookies, it is helping a lot and quickly.

When will we see Virgil Matthews notch a triple double this season?

I think he was really close to doing it. I think it will happen at some point. Virgil is a good player, I can see that happening.

Who will win Super Bowl 50 Denver or Carolina?

I think the Carolina Panthers will win. I am a Cam Newton fan, so I hope he can get the job done.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Paid and Full.

 

Thanks Greg for the chat.

 

Donald Lawson is a 27 year old 208cm center from Chicago that is playing his sixth professional season in Germany and second with SC Rasta Vechta. He played with BV Chemnitz from 2010-2014 playing a total of 118 Pro A games and two seasons ago played 30 games: 9.7ppg, Reb-2(9.4rpg), 1.4apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-5(1.3bpg), FGP: 47.0%, FT: 56.5%. Last season for SC Rasta Vechta he played 25 games: 5.0ppg, 4.8rpg. He started his basketball career at W.Michigan (NCAA) from 2006-2010 playing a total of 115 NCAA games. He spoke to German Hoops after the win against the Hamburg Towers.

 

 

Donald congrats on the big 70-52 win against the Hamburg Towers. How good does it feel to have won 10 games in a row?

It’s always a good feeling to win but we’re focusing on one game at a time and trying to improve each and every game.

Can you remember what your highest winning streak was in college and as a professional?

This may be the longest streak I’ve been a part of professionally. The other was my high school state championship team (Leo Catholic High School) the only things you remember is the good times and the tough journey.

Except for the wins against Essen and Nurnberg, you have kept every opponent to less than 63 points in the 10 game winning streak. You held Hamburg to seven points in the first quarter. How important is it in general to have the defense on the same page early?

Having a good defensive scheme is key to the success of any team, we just embrace it and know we have to grind on the defensive end to stop teams from finding rhythm.

The offense sputtered a bit in the second and third quarters, but in the fourth came alive again shutting the door on Hamburg scoring 20 points. What was key in the last 10 minutes to breeze to the win?

We fed off our defense, it fueled us on the offensive end especially late; it helped us get the lid off the rim and shots began to fall. It wasn’t a breeze. It was tough game Hamburg fought to the very end

SC Rasta Vechta is packed with offensive power, but how gratifying is it that even when you don´t play your best offensive game, you still win because the defense is working well?

Any given night we can have a great offensive output, but our backbone is defense. Which will always be something we can count on to be our core and something we can build off every game.

SC Rasta Vechta obviously have played very well defensively in the 10 game winning streak, but what else has been key that has made you so successful?

Our competitiveness as a unit against opponents, but most importantly how we compete in practice. We are always pushing each other to get better so we can play at a high level on game day.

SC Rasta Vechta is marching on and in the direction of the Beko BBL. However the post season is still long. How well is the team taking the success and also knowing the season is still very long?

We are approaching things game by game. The playoffs will come, but we still have to finish the regular season strong so we can maintain momentum going forward.

It seems like the team is doing everything right at the moment. It is averaging 84 points a game. 84 points is a lot, but with the overwhelming talent on the team do you see the offensive power will still be able to grow in the stretch run?

Growth in any offense is always good, as long as we execute and defend well I think it’s possible.

How important was the pick up of American Devin Gibson who is another talented guard for your very potent guard rotation?

Devin was a good addition, he was a perfect fit for our team.. His defense has been great and he has brought more experience.

Despite averaging only 13 minutes, you continue to be effective averaging 4,3rpg and leading the team in blocks with 1,3 per game. Is winning and being efficient the two biggest goals for you at the moment?

I want to be effective and efficient as much as possible. Everyone on the team sees the big picture and we understand what we have to do to win. I just want to make an impact each and every time I am on the court.

How has the work horse Christian Standhardinger grown as a player this season? He took a step back from the BBL to redefine his game in the Pro A.

Chris is a work horse who has been playing well. We count on him to play at a high level each game and he continues to improve in varies ways especially scoring and rebounding.

How often have you heard your teammate Derrick Allen marvel about the success of his old team Fraport Skyliners who currently have a 12 game winning streak?

DA just focusing on helping us win here; I’m sure he notices the result and scores from teams he had played on. But his main focus his helping Rasta Vechta be successful

Who will win Super Bowl 50 Denver or Carolina?

The Carolina Panthers

What was the last movie that you saw?

Star Wars.

Thanks Donald for the chat.

 

Kai King is a 30 year old 182cm point guard from Rialto, California that is playing for FC Schalke this season. He started his basketball career in 2005 with the Venice basketball league and played a few seasons with the Riverside Rainmakers (ABA). He then went to Africa in 2011 and played two seasons with Six Stars (Eqatorial Guinea-D1). In the 2012-2013 season he played for Six Stars (Eqatorial Guinea-D1)15.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 5.0apg, 1.0spg, then moved to ART Duesseldorf (Germany-2.Regionalliga) 10 games: 20.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 7.0apg. IN the 2013-2014 season he played for the Bobcats Basketball Club (Mexico-Oaxaca, starting five): 25.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 7.0apg

 

He’s back! Kai King has a new team, new city. However, the same love and passion for the game. Kai King formerly of Marler BC, is now a member of acclaimed football club Schalke 04. Kai is well traveled, having played in Equatorial Guinea (Africa), Mexico, Kosovo and again this year in Germany. Kai looks to help the Regionalliga 1 team and Oberliga team move up. The second team has lots of talented players who could truly benefit from the tutelage of an experienced point guard like King. Coach Skiba, is very confident that King will help the team in a variety of different ways. He said, “King is a pass first point guard who makes the players around him better. King will look to help both teams as much as possible.” As usual the guys here at Europrobasket will continue to check on his progress. We here at German Hoops wish him the best this upcoming season. Good luck and auf gehts Kai!!!

DJ Woodmore is a 24 year old 190cm rookie from Virginia Beach, Virginia that is playing his second season for the BIS Baskets Speyer. As a rookie last season he played 28 games averaging 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1%He played at Virginia Wesleyan (NCAA3) from 2010-2014 and a s a senior played 31 games: 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). He reached the NCAA3 Sweet 16 three times and elite 8 once. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball before the game against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors

 

 

 

Thanks DJ for talking to German Hoops. A tough 104-56 loss last weekend against the Scanplus Baskets. How tough was it to digest this loss after things seemed to have been turning around with the two game winning streak?

It was definitely a tough loss, but I’m sure we have already put it in the past. We will learn from it and get ready for our next game on Saturday.

The club was down by 12 at halftime and 19 after 30 minutes. In the fourth quarter Speyer gave up 41 points which looked like a halftime score. Did that quarter feel like you were in a bad dream?

Haha no not a bad dream, but it was extremely hard to watch. We felt helpless out there.

Was that the worst quarter of basketball that you have ever been affiliated with in your career?

Yes. Easily

Speyer was playing good basketball and then the loss to the Scanplus Baskets.Was it just one of those days and how key were the 27 turnovers for the loss?

Yes, it was just one of those days, and they made us pay for it. Turnovers were devastating for us. Every turnover led to a dunk or three pointer.

After a tough loss and as the leader of the team did you feel the need to have to step up in the locker room or did someone else take care of that and do you see yourself leading by example again in the next game?

No not last game. I think Coach pretty much spoke for everybody. There was not much to say. Next game everybody needs to play better but it definitely starts with me.

In the Pro B anything is possible and technically only three wins from a playoff spot. Is the team still thinking about the chance of reaching the playoffs or already a bit in playdown mode?

Of course we still want to give ourselves a chance to make the playoffs but I think at this point we just want to be playing our best basketball. We had a rough start but its never too late for a strong finish. Whatever happens after the season happens.

A big problem this season has been the defense as the club allows 85 points this season. Why hasn´t the team found a rhythm in this area and what continues to be the biggest building block on getting the defense fixed?

We just have to communicate more and stop getting into foul trouble so early in each quarter.

You have improved your scoring, rebounding and assists this season while your three point shooting is down. Does that have to do simply with more repetition or better shot selection from your point?

No, I think I am starting to find my rhythm from the three. I’m not too worried about the percentage too much, I just have to make more shots when I finally do get open looks.

You scored 32 points against TV Langen last season, but do you rank your 35 point game against Weissenhorn as your best as a professional?

Yes so far. But only because I hit very timely shots. I played horrible other than that. I had way too many turnovers.

After a brilliant feat like against Weissenhorn, do you as a professional ever ponder for a few minutes after thinking why isn´t possible to have games like that more frequently?

Sometimes, its always a great feeling to play well. But I think its more satisfying to also win the game.

With a few months left in the season, what do you still want to heighten in your game in the stretch run?

Yes always. I need to be more aggressive on offense and defense. I believe that gives us the best chance to make a realistic playoff run.

The next game is against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors at home. What memories do you have of the first 89-68 loss in Frankfurt?

Not much, I just remember them hitting their first 8 or 10 shots to start the game. Other than that, they’re a solid team that moves the ball well.

You shone in the loss with 20 points, but the club couldn´t contain Richter and Kiel who combined for 30 points and sharp shooter Travis Thompson had 16 points. What will be key in getting the win?

Play better interior defense and keep Thompson from getting open looks from the three.

Who will win Super Bowl 50? Denver or Carolina?

I’m pulling for Cam Newtown and the Panthers

What was the last movie that you saw?

Ride Along 2.

 

Thanks DJ for the chat.

Cavel Witter is a 28 year old 183cm guard from Kansas City, Missouri playing his fifth professional season and second with Citybasket Recklinghausen (Germany-ProB). He started his basketball career at Trinity Valley CC in 2005. He then played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2007-2010 playing a total of 101 NCAA games and as a senior played 33 games averaging 7.2ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 39.6%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 82.4%. In 2010 he turned professional with Terceira Basket (Portugal-Proliga). In the 2011-2012 season he played with Barreirense CEPSA (Portugal-LPB) playing 19 games averaging 9.9ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 79.4%. In the 2013-2014 season he had his first tour of duty with City Basket Recklinghausen (Germany-ProB) playing 25 games: Score-5(21.4ppg), 3.3rpg, 3.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 84.5%. Last season he played for S.C. Lusitania EXPERT (Portugal-LPB): 21 games: 17.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 84.5%. He talked to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

 

Cavel thanks for talking to German Hoops A big 89-61 win against Schwelm. Your team won each quarter. On a scale of 1-10 what would give this win and why?

I will give the win a ten on the rating scale anytime you can win a derby game by 20 plus is a good sign that your team was focused on the initial game plan. Now we have to build on it carry it over to the next game .

What really stood out in the win was the team unselfishness. The team dished out 18 assists, had four guys that scored in double figures and three guys with 9 points a piece. Is this something that has grown over time?

During that week of practice we really had emphasis on sharing the ball and making the extra. The more people we have contribute on offense the better

Recklingshausen is averaging 70 points a game and giving up 75 points per contest. The club is more than capable to rack up more points. What does the team need to improve in the second half on the offensive end?

Well its not offensive we need to improve . We have to focus more on defense if we are able to get more stops that will lead to more fast breaks therefore better offensive.

You are only two wins away from a playoff place. How realistic are the playoffs and focus of the team to reach that plateau?

Playoffs would be nice but we have to focus on the Now. Take it one game at a time and if we do then good things will happen.

With Joe Kennerly, Robert Franklin and yourself average 31 years of age which is rare in the German Pro B. Is there a sharing of the leadership on the team between you guys?

Yes Rob and Joe doing a great job with their leadership both are very good players and doing a great job grooming some of younger players as well .

German Aaron Donkor has played at the BBL and Pro A level. How have you seen his development progress since you arrived?

Yes Aaron is improving every day. He is a hard worker and is capable of good things if he keep it simple .

You are back for your second tour of duty with Recklingshausen. Two seasons ago you averaged 21.4ppg), 3.3rpg, 3.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 84.5%. How has your game progressed since your last season here via Portugal?

I have learned to control the tempo of the game better. My last coach in Portugal did a great job teaching me how to play point guard. When I’m at the point guard I know I have to get others involved earlier and when I’m at shooting guard that’s where I can be more aggressive scoring wise

Is your three point shooting and turnovers two areas that you want to improve?

I want to improve all aspect of my game. Yes the three ball can be better but I’m confident that if I keep working hard it will improve . I can also limit my turnover as well if I stick to my fundamentals and good things will happen.

You are a guy that can fill up the stat sheet, but what do you feel is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?

I think my leadership gets overlooked. I try stay positive during the game always telling my teammates good job . Also leading by example , setting the tone by playing hard

You played three seasons in Portugal. What did you like most about your experience on and off the court there?

I loved the country. There were a lot of nice people made playing basketball easy.

As a rookie you played with Terceira Basket (Portugal-Proliga). What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Europe where you knew that you were very far away from home?

I found out real fast it’s all business production base job . So if your not playing well they will bring in someone that will so I just try stay sharp with every team I’m on .

Who will win Super Bowl 50 Denver or Carolina?

I think the Panthers will win. I’m a big fan of Cam Newton . Plus I want see someone else win other than the usual teams

What was the last movie that you saw?

The Revenant.

 

Thanks Cavel for the chat.

Andrew Jones is a 32 year old 191cm shooting guard that has been a professional basketball player since 2007 and has returned back to the Dresden Titans this season. He played at Miles(NCAA2) and has played in Germany for most of his professional career with four seasons with the Dresden Titans and three seasons with the BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga). He also gained experience playing with teams like Marietta Storm (SEBL), BC Celtics (SEBL), C.B. Aridane (Spain-EBA) and Universidad Tecnologica Equinoc. Quito (Ecuador-National League). Last season he played for BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 19,9ppg, 6,5rpg and 3,9apg. He spoke to German Hoops after the tough 90-86 loss to the Fraport Skyliners Juniors

 

 

Thanks Andrew for talking to German Hoops

No problem at all Miles! Thanks for having me

A tough 90-86 loss against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors. Could one say the biggest strength on the day for the Dresden Titans was their fighting mentality?

Yes in the first half you could say that. We gave to many offensive rebounds to Frankfurt which gives them more opportunities at the rim.

In the first half Dresden gave up 11 offensive rebounds and in the second half only two. What was missing in the first half that the club compensated with in the second half?

We started out really slow and less aggressive attacking the glass. In the second half we made a conscious effort to take away their second attempts to score.

In the fourth quarter the Dresden Titans kept fighting, but couldn´t get over the hump. Was having to cover the three line which Frankfurt was dangerous from all night long and that always threatening inside game just too much to handle with the energy conditions diminishing as time elapsed?

Frankfurt is a very good team. They shot more from the three than inside. We did a good job covering them inside. However, they shot 40 percent from the three and made 25 out of 30 free throws. It was a good shooting night for Frankfurt.

Head coach Steven Clauss stated after the loss that despite the loss, it will help the team for future games. What do you believe did the club gain out of this loss?

We lost to Frankfurt by a few points after fighting to comeback. We understand that giving to many offensive rebounds kills us. Controlling the glass will help win games.

You had another tough game in the scoring department not scoring. Do you feel like you are forcing things too much with your shot?

I have been a scorer my whole career and I think that’s the first stat everyone looks for. I pick my shots a little bit more now and look for the open guy when I attack. The last two games I shot 9 times, so forcing has nothing to do with it really. I’m looking to win and get to the playoffs. We have 5 games left in the season. I will be more aggressive in the next games.

However you helped out in other areas like defense where you made some huge plays in key moments. How difficult is it to balance the mental part of the scoring and trying to be effective in other areas?

I don’t try to balance anything really. We have 3 imports splitting minutes. My first thought on the court is trying to make the right play for the team defensively or offensively.

Randal Holt has a lot of confidence in your game. Do you feel that when you are on the court with him?

Yes of course. I felt that way the first practice we had together. He brings a lot to this team.

After a loss and not scoring, what do you try to do the following week in practice to be able to fully focus on your job as a professional basketball player?

I will focus on what we need to accomplish as a team. With us fighting for positioning in the playoffs, I will look for my shot more to give us a deeper threat.

Philipp Liesser had a huge game with 25 points always in attacking mode. Do you feel that he can still make the jump up a level at age 26?

Yes of course. With the right opportunity he could definitely make it to the next level.

Randal Holt had a huge game with 29 points. How has his presence helped your game since he has arrived?

Randal’s scoring ability and aggressiveness has given us a more options. He controls the game very well.

The Dresden Titans are 2-2 with new head coach Steven Clauss. One could say that the club has gotten better and has every chance to make the playoffs. What do you believe has been the secret to the current success of the team?

3 out of the 4 games have been fast paced with Coach Clauss. His style of play fits with the players on this team. So if there secret, I would say his style of play.

What has been refreshing with the coaching style of Steven Clauss that you have never seen before?

I been around a lot of coaches so it’s hard to say what I haven’t seen before. However, I can say he handles wins and losses very well. He is very positive no matter the outcome

What do the Dresden Titans have to do now to secure a playoff spot in the post season?

We have to continue to play our game and control the rebounds. We can definitely score. But we have to defend and rebound.

Who will win Super Bowl 50 Denver or Carolina?

I am going for Cam Newton and the Panthers

What was the last movie that you saw?

Captain America.

 

Thanks Andrew for the chat.

 

Bo Mccalebb is a 30 year old 178cm point guard from New Orleans, Louisiana that is playing his eighth professional season and first for Limoges CSP Elite (France-ProA). He started his basketball career at New Orleans (NCAA) in 2004 and played there until 2008 and as a senior played 32 games averaging 23.2ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.1apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3Pts: 40.5%, FT: 77.2%. In the 2008-2009 season he started his professional basketball career for Mersin Buyuksehir Belediyesi (Turkey-TBL) playing 31 games averaging 17.7ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.7apg, Steals-1(2.7spg), FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 74.2%. In the 2009-2010 season he moved to BC Partizan Igokea Beograd (Serbia-A League) playing Serbian League: 17 games: 14.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-3(2.1spg), FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 21.9%, FT: 85.3%; Euroleague: 22 games: 13.4ppg, 2.9rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-5(2.0spg), FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 23.2%, FT: 75.9%; Adriatic League: 26 games: 12.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.8apg, Steals-1(2.2spg), FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 75.9%. He then played for Montepaschi Siena (Italy-SerieA) for two seasons playing 40 Euroleague games and reaching the Euroleague Final 4. He then played for Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul (Turkey-TBL) from 2012-2014 playing 47 Euroleague games. Last season he played for FC Bayern Muenchen (Germany-BBL): 8 games: 13.6ppg, 2.3rpg, 5.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 80.0%; Eurocup: 1 game: 16pts, 1reb, 4ast, 1steal; Euroleague: 5 games: 9.8ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.6apg, FGP: 34.3%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 83.3%. He spoke to German Hoops before the Eurocup game against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg.

 

 

 

Thanks Bo for talking to German Hoops. Welcome back to Germany. Last season you played briefly for FC Bayern Munich. Was that the most professional team that you have played for?

 

 

I have played for many professional teams, but yes I would say FC Bayern Munich was.

 

 

You have played 106 Euroleague games in your career, but never played against German teams in that time. You played many years in Italy, but is the Beko BBL a league that you would like to return to?

 

It was definitely a very good experience playing for FC Bayern Munich last season. I had a lot of fun until I got that injury. You never know what can happen. Maybe I return some day.

 

You started the season with the New Orleans Pelicans. In an interview in 2012 you said that you would never play in New Orleans. What changed your mind?

 

I felt it was time to give a try with the New Orleans Pelicans after having played so many years at a high level in Europe. It was nice experience that didn´t work out. Now I am back in Europe playing the game that I love.

 

What kind of experience was that for you in training camp with the New Orleans Pelicans? Was it a numbers problem at the end why you didn´t stay as the team had Jrue Holiday, Norris Cole, Tyreke Evans and Toney Douglas?

 

I was just very happy for getting this opportunity with the New Orleans Pelicans. I didn´t really know what happened and why I got cut, but at the end of the day, I didn´t make the team, but am still happy being able to make a living in Europe.

 

You came very late to Limoges, but just in time for the Eurocup stretch run. How are you feeling playing in France for the first time in your career? It is supposed to be one of the most athletic in Europe.

 

France has been good to me. I am happy to be able to play at a high level again and yes France is a very athletic league.

 

Congrats on beating unbeaten Valencia twice within a week. Limoges made the amazing feat of stopping their unbeaten streak in Euro cup even if they are still unbeaten in the Endesa league in Spain. What was the secret of beating this very good team twice?

 

I don´t think that there was a secret. We just played two very good games. In the first game, we made shots and played good defense. In the second game we believed in ourselves and repeated what we did in the first game. These games were a big help in the Eurocup standings and gave us energy and confidence to keep going up the right path.

 

With all your experience as a professional as well as playing in the NCAA how difficult is it in general to have an undefeated season in basketball?

 

It is very difficult. I have never been on an undefeated team in my life.

 

 

How much confidence does Limoges have now to advance to the Top 16 in Euro cup? Oldenburg is at 3-1 and it looks like you will battle with Valencia for the second spot as both are 2-2.

 

 

 

We are confident, but at the same time want to take it one game at a time. We have a big game in Oldenburg tomorrow. We will be prepared and need to execute to win.

 

The club is 9-9 in the French Pro A at 8-9. How realistic are the playoffs and what does the team need to do in the stretch run to be successful?

 

 

The second round hasn´t even started. We still have a long second half with 16 games. I feel that we have gotten better with the new coach on board. We will continue to work hard and get better as a team.

 

What exactly is your role for Limoges? Are you the missing offensive punch that the team needs in the latter part of the season?

 

That is hard to say as I haven´t been here long enough. The most important thing for me to do is to go on the floor and do exactly what coach wants.

 

Your known as an explosive scorer, but also a player that can distribute the ball very well, but what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?

 

I can do many things, but to be honest I can´t point out one strength that gets unnoticed.

 

How pleased are to be teammates with Heiko Schaffartzik again? How do you guys compliment each other best?

 

Everyone knows that Heiko is a great shooter and on top of that a great person. I am a guy that pushes the tempo, gets in the lane and can dish. He knocks down shots all game long. We compliment each other well.

 

Heiko Schaffartzik is known for taking and making crazy shots from anywhere on the court. If you couldn´t shoot, would you leave the destiny of your team in his hands during money time?

 

That is not my decision. That is the decision of the coach. I trust every single teammate in crunch time.

 

You played a few years ago with three time Euroleague champion Mike Bastiste at Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul (Turkey-TBL) shortly before he retired. Where does he rank in all time best teammates that you have played with?

 

Mike Bastiste is definitely in my all time top 5 best teammates. He did it all on the court. He played with the best coach in Europe with Zeljko Obradovic and best point guard with Dimitrios Diamantidis. He won so many titles and just knew what it took to be successful.

 

 

You have won 11 titles in Europe as a professional. You also showed supreme consistency doing it in Serbia, Italy and Turkey. If you had to pick one title that you cherished most what would you chose?

 

I cherish my title in Serbia, because it was my first. You always remember that first title.

 

 

You reached the Euroleague Final 4 in 2010 and 2011 and became a household name in Europe playing with Montepaschi Siena (Italy-SerieA). How do you believe your game matured in your two seasons in Italy?

 

My game did mature in Italy, but I am thankful that I had great teammates like Shaun Stonerook, David Moss and Rimantas Kaukenas that deserve a lot of credit for my development. Nikolais Zisis was also a big help. I was young at the time and they helped me make the transition.

 

You reached the semi finals at the 2011 European championships with Macedonia losing to Russia 72-68. Do you ever think back to that game about what could have been in crunch time if the club has secured a few rebounds more?

 

That was a big game. I don´t think about those rebounds later. That wouldn´t have changed anything. We had a good run and came up a bit short.

 

 

You scored in double figures in every game during the 2011 European championships. Was that the best basketball that you ever played in a short amount of time?

 

Yes it was.

 

 

As a rookie you played for Mersin Buyuksehir Belediyesi (Turkey-TBL) What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Europe where you knew that you were far away from New Orleans?

 

The first couple months were very tough. I had no mother or family with me. I am not a cooker and had to go out and find food on my own. I had never done these kind of things alone. After a few months I got used to everything.

 

You had a great career at New Orleans(NCAA) and as a senior played 32 games: 23.2ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.1apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3Pts: 40.5%, FT: 77.2%. You then had 6 try outs with NBA teams. What do you think was missing for you to reach the NBA at that particular time?

 

I think that the main reason I didn´t get to the NBA then was that I played out of position my last two years in college. I am a point guard and my last year I played the two position despite not being so big.

 

 

 

You played for three different coaches at New Orleans(NCAA), but had Monte Towe in your first two seasons. How did he groom and prepare you for a professional career early in your college career?

 

He gave me a wake up call. I was recruited as a two, and I told him I am a point guard. He started to play me at the point and after two months I was in the starting lineup. He realized my potential and told me I should get serious about becoming a professional as I could go very far as a player.

 

 

Who was the toughest player that you ever battled in your career on the floor that is in the NBA now?

 

I had so many battles that I can´t pick just one player. I had some very tough match ups in my career. I don´t care as much about the individual match up, but more about the game which matters most

 

 

Who will win Superbowl 50 Denver or Carolina?

 

That is a tough one, but the way Cam Newton is playing, I have to go with Carolina.

 

 

What was the last movie that you saw?

 

Ted 2. I liked it, but not as much as the first.

 

Thanks Bo for the chat.