Michael Fakuade is a 26 year old 201cm forward from Chicago, Illinois that also has the NIgerian citizenship and is starting his fourth professional season and second in Spain and first with Quesos Cerrato de Palencia (Spain-LEB Gold). As a rookie he played for UBC Hannover playing 15 games: 15.2ppg, Reb-5(10.6rpg), 1.1apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-1(2.8bpg), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 67.6%. In his second season he played for the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (Germany-ProA) playing 33 games averaging 8.3ppg, Reb-5(7.3rpg), Blocks-1(1.8bpg), FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 56.5%. Last season he played for Forca Lleida CE (Spain-LEB Gold)playing 32 games: 7.2ppg, 5.2rpg, Blocks-5(1.0bpg), FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 66.0%. He started his basketball career in 2007 for  N.Illinois (NCAA) where he played until 2010 playing 54 NCAA games. He then changed to play for  Ill.-Springfield (NCAA2). He played a total of 45 NCAA 2 games and as a senior played  24 games: 14.5ppg, RebNCAA2-6(11.0rpg), BlocksNCAA2-2(3.5bpg), FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 3-6, FT: 56.7%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Hi Michael, thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

Summer has been great! just spending time with family and friend as well as working out preparing for the upcoming season.

You played your first two professional seasons in Germany and now will be playing your second in Spain. What have you missed most about Germany basketball wise?

Playing in both countries has been a fantastic experience.The thing that I missed the most about playing in Germany is the fast past play. Spain is more half court with a lot of sets.

Last season you played for Forca Lleida CE (Spain-LEB Gold) and your stats weren´t to different from to your season in Essen. What are the main differences in the two leagues Pro A and Leb Gold?

The biggest difference between Pro A and Leb gold would be the tactical part of the game. You really have to focus on the small details and focus on defense. Scoring is not as important as it is in pro A.

You reached the Leb Gold semi finals losing to Ourense in three games. What kind of experience was it playing the playoffsin Spain?

Losing in the semi finals was tough because we were really close to the finals and I really wanted to put my stamp in the league by making the finals.

You had no problem adjusting to the Spanish Leb Gold last season and you played 32 games averaging 7.2ppg, 5.2rpg, Blocks-5(1.0bpg), FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 66.0%. What part of your game do you feel can you use best to your abilities in the Leb Gold?

I think my defense and my energy is one ability that I can really use to be successful in Leb gold, As well as any other league I plan to play in.

I watched some tapes on you and you seem to have become more of a complete player in Spain. Do you feel that playing on a team that had no real superstar, but moreover players that played for each other helped your game more?

Yes, I definitely think playing on a real team with no real superstar helped me develop. I knew every night whatever role I was playing, that the team would need me to contribute and help the team win.

You played five minutes less than in Essen, but were still very efficient on the court. What part of your game do you feel developed the most last season?

I think my IQ of the game has developed the most. I really learned how to think the game and know when to be aggressive on offense and defense.

Who would win a one on one in practice you or Javier Mugica?

Good question, but of course as a competitor I would say myself, but Javi is a very skilled player that has a lot of experience in Leb gold.

This season you will continue to remain in the Spanish Leb Gold with Quesos Cerrato de Palencia (Spain-LEB Gold). What will be your personal goals this season? In what areas do you want to make the next step?

My personal goal is to get to the Championship. Last year I had a little taste of the semifinals, so this time around I want to be in the finals. I also want to just keep developing as player to help my team win as many games as possible.

Were you able to watch any Spanish first division games last season? It is the best league in Europe. Is there still worlds between the Leb Gold and first division or not so much?

Yes, The spanish ACB league is one the best leagues in the world. I think Leb is not too far away from the ACB, because you have a lot of veteran guys that come down from the ACB to play in Leb as well as some stars in the ACB that started their career in Leb.

A big goal of yours is to reach the German Beko BBL one day. Do you feel with a strong season in the Leb Gold, you might be able to fulfill that dream?

Yes, I believe if I continue my growth as player that I can can not only play in the BBL but any league in Europe.

Two seasons ago you played with Anthony Young with the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen who has played in South America the last two seasons. What do you remember most about his game in practice where you are happy that he was actually on your team and wasn´t an opponent?

It was always fun to match up with Anthony. His hesitation pull up was a go to move of his. It was really fun to play with him in Essen. I feel as if him and I gave opponents a different mix whenever we were out there.

What memories do you have of Ashanti Cook? He came out of Georgetown in 2006 and it seemed like he have a promising career, but instead had to battle many obstacles. Did it surprise you that he didn´t have more of a long lasting career?

Yes, I am very surprised Ashanti does not have offers to play in Europe. He is one of the most talented players I ever played with. He is a super skilled guard that still has a lot of game left. I believe he will still get an opportunity to continue you his career.

How does a summer work out day look like for you in the summer of 2015?

Every day I wake up around 9 and head to the gym. I spend about two half hours in the gym. One hour and half on the court and another hour in the weight room. Throughout the week I like to play no more than two to three games a week.

What is the current state of Lebron James? Will he ever be mentioned in the same breath as a Michael Jordan?

Yes, as of right now people mention Lebron in the same breath as Jordan. He still has a long way to go, but he will be in the conversation when his career is over.

What do you see the Chicago Bulls achieving this season?

I believe the Bulls will make it to the NBA finals. They have a really good team. They just need to stay healthy.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Jurassic World.

Thanks Michael for the chat.

48 hours after experiencing an annoying and embarrassing 76-52 loss in Strasburg to France where Germany suffered an inacceptable 31-0 run from France where they were unable to score for 13 minutes, both teams were back at it in Cologne Germany for the last test before the begin of Euro 2015 next weekend. Team Germany lost consecutive games against Croatia two weeks ago while last weekend Germany won the Super Cup in Hamburg beating teams Latvia, Poland and Turkey and after being crushed in Strasburg 48 hours ago, team Germany seem to be in no mans land not knowing exactly where the road to consistent success is as they are as up and down as the weight of American actress Delta Burke has been over the last years. It was the battle of Germany with its three NBA players with Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder and Tibor Pleiss against France and its six NBA players with Tony Parker, Nicolas Batum, Boris Diaw, Evan Fournier, Rudy Gobert and Joffrey Lauvergne and a sold out house the Lanxess arena as German fans were hoping for revenge and possibly a victory dance from Dirk Nowitzki similar to what he did 17 hours earlier as he won the goal shooting contest on a German sports program, but France had the better nerves in crunch time as they closed out the game with a 7-2 run sparked by five points from ex San Antonio Spur Nando De Colo. Germany had had the number of France throughout the game holding the lead even if it wasn´t easy at times, but France got stronger in the second half and in the fourth quarter had that Allez Lez Bleus attitude and heart and showed again why they belong to the favorites to win the 2015 European championships as their mental toughness was there even if Tony Parker wasn´t his usual work horse self. “It was really cool to see Cologne stand behind their national team in the Lanxess arena. It was an intense environment for a preparation game and both teams played to win. I think the German team was most successful when they were able to establish themselves on offense. Germany has the talent to play against the best, they just need play to their strengths in order to come out on top. If they can continue to get stops on defense and assert their style of play, I think they can contend for the Eurobasket championship”, stressed RheinStars forward Alex Foster.

Germany started the game with their usual starting lineup of the last games with the NBA trio of Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder and Tibor Pleiss, new shooting star Paul Zipser and ex Bamberg guard Anton Gavel while France started with four NBA players with Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs, Nicolas Batum of the Charlotte Hornets, Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz, Evan Fournier of the Orlando Magic and Nando De Colo of CSKA Moscow. Despite having played 44 hours earlier in Strasburg and both teams knowing the scouting report, both teams came out lackadaisical and seemed somewhat effected by the high temperatures of the late summer day in Cologne Germany. On the first play fans saw Rudy Gobert swat away a Dennis Schroeder shot on the penetration. Of course getting into the lane is as simple for Schroeder as it is for a basketball fan with bad eye sight to mix up an Antoine Diot with Bastian Doreth concerning the face hair, but then again the ex Braunschweig player can´t underestimate the wing span of Gobert. Germany got the quick 3-0 lead as ex Heidelberg forward Paul Zipser made an off balance shot with one second on the shot clock and dropped the free throw. France then finished up their first good play with superb ball movement and patience as ex Phoenix Suns forward Boris Diaw made a lay in and Parker tied the score at 3-3 with a free throw. Germany then regained the lead 5-3 as Dennis Schroeder hit a pull up jumper on the transition. However then it was ex Valencia shooting guard De Colo that displayed his shooting talent hitting a trey for the 7-5 France advantage. The Lanxess arena then had its first game time splurge of roaring sound after Nowitzki tied up the game with his routine step back jumper which he will probably still make when he is 70, but then without a man against him. Germany then regained the lead 12-9 as Tibor Pleiss who was back home again in Cologne where he started his career made a hook shot off the extra pass from Nowitzki and then it was Paul Zipser taking something from the game of Nowitzki making a pretty step back over Gobert who was a few steps to late. German head coach Chris Fleming was doing a splendid job working his bench as Fraport Skyliner center Johannes Voigtmann once again showed his effectiveness in few minutes scoring in bunches as he made a step back and then found the open daylight and made a massive two handed dunk as ex Seattle Supersonic Mickael Gelabale was a step too late. After one quarter Germany had the nice 16-10 lead.

The second quarter was the strongest quarter of Germany as they were able to build their biggest lead of the game of 10 points, but France was never totally out of the game as they continued to scrap back and trailed only 38-32 after 20 minutes. France confronted the annoying 9-1 run of Germany to end the first quarter as Denver Nugget Joffrey Lauvergne made a hard dunk and connected on the free throw as France trailed only by 16-13. However Germany was able to thwrat the France zone defense as two time NCAA champion Nils Giffey hit a three pointer getting the quick kick out pass from Bamberg guard Karsten Tadda as Germany led 18-13. However back up point guard Antoine Diot who reached the France Pro A final the last two years with Strasburg and will play in Valencia this season made a quick steal at center court catching Heiko Schaffartzik off guard bringing France closer to 18-15. Germany then went on a 13-6 run to get their biggest lead of the game at 31-21 as it was the NBA stars Nowitzki and Schroeder that took care of most of the damage. Schroeder drew two fouls making four free throws with his typical clever penetration that can mostly only be stopped by fouling him and then connected on a three pointer. Nowitzki made two step back jumpers which is his bread and butter in his shot repitore. Paul Zipser rounded out the scoring with an amazing spin move. Zipser has had the big breakthrough this summer with the national team and deserved his starting position as he continues to shine on the court. “He had a long injury and it wasn´t easy cracking the FC Munich roster. However he came back top fit this summer to the national team and everyone sees the talent he has and it is all deserved”, stressed ex Phoenix Hagen center Bernd Kruel. France was playing without Tony Parker who was being rested in the second quarter and they got support from Gelabale with a jumper and ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket small forward Charles Kahudi nailed a three pointer. France then retaliated with a stunning 8-2 run to cut the Germany lead to 33-29. In the run it was the hot and timely shooting of Diot that got France closer as he buried two three pointers. Alexis Ajinca replacement Jaiteh made a tip inin the run as well. Schroeder and Nowitzki scored to close out the first half for Germany while Diot made his third three pointer of the game as Germany still led 38-32 at halftime. “Germany has a good mix of players and played a good first half. It isn´t always easy not to give the ball to Dirk Nowitzki”, stressed RheinStars center Bernd Kruel.

In the third quarter France continued to stay on the heels of Germany, but still were unable to get the lead back. Ex Le Mans forward Nicolas Batum got France on the board first with an ally op dunk as France trailed 38-34. Anton Gavel then hit a runner and it was Lauvergne again using his physicality to score inside and get the and one free throw as France trailed only 40-37. The game continued to be very close and exciting as Tibor Pleiss hit a mini hook shot, but De Colo led a mini France 4-0 run with a jumper as Germany led only 42-40. Pleiss and Batum then traded buckets, but Germany still led 44-43. Voigtmann then made two free throws and one could see the twinkle of enjoyment in the eyes of Bernd Kruel watching the Frankfurt center. “He is a good player. I have enjoyed watching him the last years. He is a modern center that has a good eye and is very clever. I think that he will continue to develop well and have a good future in the national team”, stressed ex Telekom Baskets Bonn center Bernd Kruel. Schroeder then made a lay for the 48-44 advantage. However with 1,5 seconds to play France had one last opportunity and Chales Kahudi made an incredible shot from his own end ¾ from the rim cutting the Germany lead to 48-47 after three quarters. “That shot showed that anything is possible. That was a good example for young players to see that it isn´t over until you take that last shot”, added Bernd Kruel. “France played a lot better in the third quarter. It was tough for Germany that Nowitzki had three fouls. Germany is strongest when Nowitzki is on the court and play off him. Schroeder plays well, but there is no clear leader on the team when Nowitzki is out”, stressed ex Emory forward Alex Foster.

In the fourth quarter there were seven lead changes, but that last lead change was most vital and key because it paved the road to victory for France. It started going back and forth right from the start of the fourth quarter as Diot made a jumper giving France the lead back after a long wait 49-48. Voigtmann then displayed his versatility and no hesitation shooting when he is open making a jumper from the wing as Germany snatched the lead back 50-49. Then it was Gelabale dropping a three pointer as France grabbed the lead back 52-50. Gorbat then ended a mini 4-0 run of France with a lay in as France led 54-50. “France had the momentum at this point. One shot can really turn the tide as that buzzer beater of Kahudi seemed to do. France knew they had the momentum and took advantage of it”, expressed Alex Foster. However Germany stayed tough mentally and weren´t scared away by the sudden France momentum and returned going on a 5-0 run to win the lead back at 55-54 as Heiko Schaffartzik nailed one of his typical from the parking lot jumpers as one quick cross over and it´s bombs away and Schroeder hit a rare floater that he didn´t use much in the game. The game continued to have surprises as after Diot made a lay in to give France the 56-55 lead it was extra bench power as ex Frankfurt Skyliner Alex King nailed a three pointer and Schaffartzik connected on another three pointer as now it seemed as once again the game tide was turning in favor of Germany as they led 61-56 with four minutes to play. However France somehow stood up again and whipped a 5-0 run to dead lock the game at 61-61 as Gelabale nailed another three pointer and Diaw hit a turn around jumper. However with three minutes to go and everyone in the arena expecting heroics from Dirk Nowitzki, it was actually France that pulled away going on a 7-2 run to close out the game and win. De Colo was razor sharp in the crunch time as he made a jumper and connected on free throws while France knew the ball was coming to Nowitzki and shut him down. “France was able to keep Dirk in check during the fourth quarter and came out on top. After France bricked 4 straight free throws, Germany went to Dirk for the win, but Diaw played solid defense and forced him into a tough shot. There’s nobody better than Dirk in that situation, but the ball took a bounce in France’s favor. After that, France sealed the win by finally knocking down some free throws”, stressed Portland, Oregon native Alex Foster. France was led by Nando De Colo with 14 points. Antoine Diot took over the load from NBA superstar Tony Parker hitting big shots finishing with 13 points and seven assists while Mickale Gelabale rounded out the scoring with 12 points. Germany was led by Dennis Schroeder with 16 points while Dirk Nowitzki added 10 points and seven rebounds. France shot 43% from the field while Germany shot 39%. France shot 42% from outside and Germany 26%. Both teams had 38 rebounds a piece while Germany had nine and France 11. Both teams have ended their game preparation for Euro 2015 and will head to Berlin on Wednesday as they will see action this upcoming weekend as the Euro 2015 commences.

Vincent Collet is the head coach of the France national team since 2009 as well as being head coach of French team Strasburg. He led France at the European championships to the silver in Lithuania in 2011, the gold in 2013 in Slovenia and a bronze at the World Championships in Spain in 2014. German Hoops spoke to Vincent Collet in Cologne before the exhibition game against Germany.

Vincent thanks for talking to German Hoops. France will play Germany in the Laxness arena Sunday. What memories do you have of the German city Cologne as a player and head coach?

A very short memory. I remember playing Euroleague in 2006 against the Cologne team. However we didn´t play in the Laxness arena, but in another one that was in a tent

You led France to a silver medal in Lithuania in 2011, a gold in Slovenia in 2013 and a bronze last year at the world championships. Do you have a special place for all your awards as a coach at a home?

I have a special place at home for all the awards, but I must be honest that I want to continue more medals to my collection. We want to win the 2015 European championships, but our main goal is the 2016 Olympics. We want a medal there and the loss to Spain in 2012 didn´t leave a good memory for us.

France basketball in the national team has been very successful in the last years, but lets be honest you continuously have amazing rosters with much NBA talent. Does it sometimes feel like you are a head coach like Phil Jackson where you kind of sit back and let the players play?

For sure sometimes I really don´t need to say much. We have great players and most important is to always keep the players focused and together.

How much of a challenge is it being a coach and coaching so much talent? What is the most difficult thing of coaching the France national team?

The most difficult thing is getting each player on the same page and having each guy know their role well. We had problems in the past where substitutes didn´t accept the hierarchy. Something like this can always come back, but it is my job to keep harmony in the team.

Congrats on the 76-52 win against Germany on Friday in Strasburg. How high can you rank a win like this against the pesky German team so close to the start of Euro 2015?

Well it was a good win yes and no. If you see the result then it is a good win. The first six minutes were close, but we then had a 31-0 run something that usually doesn´t happen. We played excellent in this phase, but Germany missed many open shots that they usually would make. We had such a high lead then that the game was over. This game didn´t have much meaning. It is already forgotten. The game Sunday in Cologne will be a lot different.

Where do you rate the 31-0 run of France against Germany? Was that the best 13 minutes of basketball you have seen your team play or just very bad German play?

It was a little of both. We played great aggressive defense and made tough shots. Germany played very bad in this moment.

What is your impression of Germany? They have three NBA players with Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder and Tibor Pleiss. What is still missing in their game ?

That is difficult to say as I can only comment about this game. Germany has very good and reliable shooters with Gavel, Giffey and Schaffartzik, but they weren´t hitting anything. They definitely are a better team than what they showed in Strasburg. I am still waiting for Germany to play better. They didn´t move the ball well and were static. I saw other games from the last weeks where Germany was better.

Germany is in a tough group where they most likely will battle Italy and Turkey for the third spot to advance. Do you think that Germany will be able to do this task?

 

I think that Germany will advance. They have a big advantage that they play at home. I believe that Germany will get better during Euro 2015 day by day. It will be an emotional return for Dirk Nowitzki who last played a big tournament in 2011. Spain and Serbia are the favorites. I think that Italy could be the surprise team in that group. They have a good team and the young guys have matured over the last years and they have had the same coach since 2011. Be ready for Italy making a surprise.

France has had a very solid pre season. How ready is France for Euro 2015?

I don´t think were quite ready now, but we will be by Friday. It will be a process from game to game and we want to reach the final

France have a very interesting group with Poland, Israel, Russia, Bosnia and Finland. What country do you see making biggest surprise?

 

I think that in our group the surprise could be Finland. They have a team that has been together for a while and the chemistry is good. Their big men aren´t really big men as they play more away from the basket. Finland is a special team.

France are the favorite in this group. How difficult is it keeping the team grounded and getting self confident? Is the team chemistry that the club has had for many years half the rent to winning games?

Our goal isn´t necessarily being first in the group, but advancing. We have to look from game to game to get better as the tournament goes on. We will play against better teams so we will have to increase our level. Last year Spain was very strong in the early going, but lost to us in the quarterfinals. Important for us is to always get better as we get closer to the final.

Alexis Ajinca is injured and won´t play while you have added young talent Mouhammadou Jaiteh. Is he the future of French basketball and what does he bring to the table that Ajinca doesn´t?

Jaiteh is of the players of the future for us. He isn´t the same kind of player as Ajinca as he isn´t as tall, but he has very good skills especially around the basket and has soft hands.

The France team has many veterans and not getting younger. The youngest guys on the team other than Jaiteh are Rudy Gobert and Evan Fourner. How does the future of France basketball look like in the next years?

It won´t be easy to replace the Parker/Diaw era. This era has been so special and we have been lucky to have so many special players over the last years. It will be a real challenge to find new young talents. We have good young guys coming up. However there is a difference between good young guys and stars. We have many good young players but no one like Tony Parker. It is hard to replace a guy like Parker.

You have followed the career of Joffrey Lauvergne since his days with Chalon. He played last season for Denver and had a good 2015 NBA Summer League with the Denver Nuggets averaging 11,0ppg and 8,0rpg. Do you see him having a long career in the NBA?

Why not. Lauvergne is a young player that is physical and has a good mid range shot. He always plays with a lot of energy and I believe that he can keep a spot in the NBA for a long time.

Strasburg has been a finalist the last three years in the France Pro A. Do you sometimes wish some of the France national team success would carry over to the Strasburg team?

For sure that would be very nice. I like how much we have improved since I came in in 2011. The clock was at 12 when I came in as head coach and everything has been going well except for winning that league title. The final isn´t enough, but we want more. The last step is always the most difficult. We will keep going and try again this season.

You have coached many players in your life, but have you ever seen a better player at age 36 than Lou Campbell?

Now I need to think a minute. I have not coached a player at 36 that is in the same shape as Lou Campbell. He is in great shape and looks so young. He is very professional and a family guy. He doesn´t go out, but just takes care of himself. It also helps that he is a solid athlete still at 36.

You signed German Kostja Mushidi. Too what player does his game remind you of and what do you like most about his game?

He visited us in May for a try-out. His father in law is French which helps. He made a great effort when he was in Strasburg. He is a very interesting player for us. He has many fine qualities like being physical, quick and explosive. Of course he is still a young player and needs to learn, but we believe in him. He reminds me of ex NBA player Jamal Mashburn.

What was the last movie that you saw?

I don´t remember. I have had much basketball the last 2-3 months.

Thanks Vincent for the chat.

Damarkus Lipscomb is a 173cm point guard from North Little Rock, Arkansas that is currently in Germany playing with the Howard Hoops team. He helped the team to a 2-1 record beating Kronberg and Gelnhausen and they close out the tour tonight in Schwelm. He played college ball at Philander Smith (NAIA) and as a senior played 32 games: 7.9ppg, 3.2rpg, 7.7apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 36.8%, 3PT: 22.8%, FT: 54.3%. As a professional he played with Team Dubai (Eurobasket Summer League in Houston, starting five): 5 games: 6.0ppg, 1.2rpg. Awards and achievements in his basketball career have been GCAC Regular Season Co-Champion -13, GCAC Tournament Winner -13, and GCAC All-Tournament MVP -13. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Damarkus thanks for talking to German Hoops. Welcome to Germany. It was10:30 at night recently and after a 102-90 loss to TV Langen you had to walk 20 minutes to the train station to catch a short train back to Frankfurt and then take a bus to Offenbach. I guess it all comes with the territory when your trying to get a professional contract?

Yes it does come with the territory. If you want something you never had, you’ll have to do some things you have never done. I’ve never road a train to a game nor had to walk 20 minutes afterward. But I come to understand that things are different overseas than it is in America and willing to adapt.

You are in Germany this week on a touring team called Howard Hoops that play every night in Langen, Kronberg, Gelnhausen and Schwelm. On a team the goal is too win, but is your goal not more to put up the best numbers to help you get a contract?

Yes, my team goal is to win and play team basketball because I’m naturally unselfish and a team player. However, being the ultimate goal is to get a contract I’ll have to try to adjust my game to score more.

Howard Hoops lost to German Regionaliga team TV Langen 102-90 playing more street ball while TV Langen played more structured basketball. How tough was it playing on a team of strangers after having the first practice 5 hours earlier?

It wasn’t that tough on offense since Americans pretty much play the same style of ball. But it was tough for us defensively to adapt to the European style of play and the pace.

Howard Hoops had problems on one on one defense and are very small down low against TV Langen. What adjustments did the team need to do which helped in the wins against Kronberg and Gelnhausen?

We used our quickness on defense to speed up in the other team’s offense and pressure them into turnovers. Also, we pushed the tempo while on offense to get quick shots before their big man could get back to defend their basket.

What was your first impression of German basketball?

My first impression was that German teams run their offense with precision and they have a great basketball IQ. They seem to try to limit their mistakes and capitalize off of their opponents.

How happy were you with your first game overseas. What did you do well and what do you still want to do better in the upcoming games?

I was excited because it was my first overseas experience playing basketball, and that was a dream come true for me. I played defense well and handled the ball good with limited turnovers. I still want to transition my game in the upcoming games from a passive guard to a scoring guard.

Howard Hoops team won in Kronberg and Gelnhausen. Has the team began to get a better team chemistry in the last two games?

Yes the team chemistry is better. Were starting to be on the same page both offensively and defensively.

How thankful are you that tour maker Ronald Howard chose you for his team?

Very thankful. Not many people get a opportunity to travel abroad and to actively pursue a career in basketball while playing against professional teams.

Were you able to take some of his barking from the sidelines to heart when you were on the court?

Yes, Coach Ronald Howard is very experienced with overseas basketball and his insights are very helpful while in competition.

You will have a real big test Friday against German Pro B team Schwelm. This will be your last game on this tour. How confident are you that you will have a good game?

I am confident. I believe that my experience and that my training has prepared me for this level of competition.

You played at Philander Smith (NAIA) and as a senior played 32 games: 7.9ppg, 3.2rpg, 7.7apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 36.8%, 3PT: 22.8%, FT: 54.3%. You finished there in 2013. Do you feel that your size has scared away teams from giving you a contract?

I honestly do believe it has. But I believe in my skill set and what I can bring to a club. I will just continue to work endlessly until I find one club to believe in me the way that I believe in myself.

If you could describe your game in a few sentences and to why you could help any professional team now what words would you chose?

I am a true-point guard that can lead a team. I can give high assist numbers and also can score well. I give good energy on defense and pressure opposing guards into turnovers. What I may lack in height I make up in heart and hard work. I’m very coachable.

What is the state of Lebron James in 2015? Do you think that he will ever be mentioned in the same breath as a Michael Jordan?

Lebron’s state of mind is to return to the NBA Finals this upcoming season and win a championship. Anything less than that should be unacceptable. I think he will be discussed with the Greatest of All Time, Michael Jordan, because he is the greatest basketball player of today’s era. But final comparison can’t be made until Lebron’s NBA career is finished.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I saw was “Madagascar 3”. I watched that on the flight from the U.S. to Germany.

Thanks Damarkus for the chat.

After a 10 year professional career John Turek (205-C-83, college: Nebraska, agency: ISM Hoops) has decided to hang it up. Turek is a 32 year old 205cm center that was a very consistent player that Banged well inside, could score from outside, defended hard and always knew what to do and where to stay in almost any moment of the game. Another reason for his long career was that an organization and coaching staff could always rely on him becuase he had a great attitude and team mentality. He wasn’t a guy that felt comfortable in only one country, but enjoyed to explore europe as he played two seasons in Germany with Phoenix Hagen and the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg, played three seasons in Holland, three in Poland, and one in Belgium and in France. Especially German fans will remmeber him as he was a key player in the first BBL season of Phoenix Hagen in the 2009-2010 season. It was in this season where he experienced the documentary filming of Phoenix in der Asche where the Phoenix Hagen season was well documented. The big man from Council Bluffs, Iowa made the announcement of his retiring over the social media. “I just wanted to let everyone know that I have decided to retire from the game of basketball. After 10 professional seasons overseas and practicing a game that I love from the age of nine I have decided to pursue other opportunities. Thanks to everyone and anyone that ever encouraged, coached or prayed for me in my endeavor to chase a dream that became a reality. I am excited to see what the future holds and will always cherish the memories that I made throughout my time on the court”, stressed John Turek (205-C-83, college: Nebraska, agency: ISM Hoops).

Turek started his basketball career in 2001 at Nebraska (NCAA) where he played until 2005 playing a total of 115 NCAA games. He played under head coach Barry Collier and then already learned the definition of team basketball as he would play with future players that would go overseas like Andrew Drevo, Jason Douresseau and Wes Wilkinson and even a future NBA player with Aleks Maric. He started his professional basketball career in 2005 with Omniworld Almere (Holland-Eredivisie): 26 games: 17.0ppg, 10.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg. In the 2006-2007 season he remained in Holland and played for Hanzevast Capitals Groningen (Holland-Eredivisie): 40 games: 7.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.4apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 49.5%, FT: 52.1%, 3Pts: 16.7%. In the 2007-2008 season he had double double stats with the Gent Dragons (Belgium-D1) playing 33 games: 13.0ppg, Reb-2 (10.6rpg), 1.1apg, 1.2spg, Blocks-3 (1.4bpg), 2FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 45.0%, FT: 56.0%. IN the 2008-2009 season he played for PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-DBE): Eurocup: 6 games: 5.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.0spg, 1.8bpg; Polish League: 40 games: 8.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 59.6%, FT: 61.2%. In the 2009-2010 season he played for Phoenix Hagen (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 28 games: 12.4ppg, Reb-5 (6.6rpg), 1.0apg, Blocks-1 (1.4bpg), FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 61.8%. In the 2010-2011 season he went back to Holland to ball for GasTerra Flames Groningen (Holland-DBL): EuroCup: 6 games: 8.2ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 34.2%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 61.1%; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 1 game: 7pts, 1reb, 1steal; Dutch League: 50 games: 9.5ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 54.4%. In the 2011-2012 season he returned back to Poland to Trefl Sopot (Poland-PLK, starting five): 48 games: 14.1ppg, 7.4rpg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 62.5%. In the 2012-2013 season he signed with Neckar RIESEN Ludwigsburg (Germany-BBL) playing 34 games: 13.9ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 22.7%, FT: 70.4%. In the 2013-2014 season he had a year of basketball experience in France with Champagne Chalons-Reims Basket (France-ProB) playing 40 games avergaing 14.5ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 17.6%, FT: 65.1%. Last season he played for Rosa Radom (Poland-TBL): 34 games: 11.0ppg, 6.2rpg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 60.5%.

Awards and achievements in his basketball career have been All-Big 12 Academic 1st Team -05, Dutch Eredivisie All-Star Game -06, Dutch Cup Finalist -07
Polish Cup Semifinals -09, Polish League Regular Season Runner-Up -09, 12, Polish League Finalist -09, 12, Eurobasket.com Belgian League All-Imports 2nd Team -08, Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Defensive Team -10, Dutch Eredivisie Regular Season Runner-Up -11, Dutch Eredivisie Finalist -11, Polish League All-Star Game -12
Polish Cup Winner -12, Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Center of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-Polish League 1st Team -12, Eurobasket.com Polish League All-Imports Team -12, Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Honorable Mention -13, Eurobasket.com All-French ProB 2nd Team -14, Eurobasket.com French ProB All-Imports Team -14, French ProB Play-Offs Semifinals -14, Polish Cup Finalist -15, and Polish League Semifinals -15

Barry Johnson is a 183cm guard that is in Germany chasing his basketball dream and playing with a touring team called Howard Hoops at the moment. He played college ball at Clarendon CC (JUCO), W.Texas A&M (NCAA2) 28 games: 3.9ppg, 1.1rpg and at Wayland Baptist (NAIA) 34 games: 14.8ppg, 2.9rpg. Awards and achievements in his basketball career have been LSC Tournament Semifinals -13, SAC Regular Season Runner-Up -14, SAC Tournament Finalist -14, and SAC All-Tournament Team -14. He spoke to German Hoops about his experiences in Germany

Barry thanks for talking to German Hoops. Welcome to Germany. Its 10:30 at night and after a 102-90 loss to TV Langen you had to walk 20 minutes to the train station to catch a short train back to Frankfurt and then take a bus to Offenbach. I guess it all comes with the territory when your trying to get a professional contract

Yes it is very different but can´t complain. Do what I have to do.

You are in Germany this week on a touring team called Howard Hoops that play every night in Langen tonight and then in Kronberg, Gelsenkirchen and Schwelm. On a team the goal is too win, but is your goal not more to put up the best numbers to help you get a contract

I mean, a little of both. Winning is always good and people like winners. But also I want to do the best I can to help with that process.

Howard Hoops lost to German Regionaliga team TV Langen 102-90 playing more street ball while TV Langen played more structured basketball. How tough was it playing on a team of strangers after having the first practice 5 hours earlier?

It was very tough. Just barely meeting these guys today and practiced for 1 hour its hard to get used to playing with someone that fast and to know how to play off of each other.

Howard Hoops had problems on one on one defense and are very small down low. What adjustments does the team need to do in the next games to get some wins?

I think everyone on the team has good defense and ability to not get eaten on one on one. I think the problem was more of being tired. We flew over to Frankfurt from the USA and had a couple hours before we had to practice and then a game the same night. We will be better next game for sure.

TV Langen has a young roster with American rookie Ian Sheldon and German veterans Maxim Schneider and Yannick Schiktanz. What was your first impression of German basketball?

They play really good structured basketball. No one was trying to do too much, just a lot of passing and moving around. It was good.

How happy were you with your first game overseas. What did you do well and what do you still want to do better in the upcoming games?

I wasnt happy at all. Could have done a lot better. I missed a few shots that I normally make.

How thankful are you that tour maker Ronald Howard chose you for his team? Were you able to take some of his barking from the sidelines to heart when you were on the court?

I am very appreciative of Ron for the opportunity. Its always good to know that there are good people in the world who care about helping others and not looking for benefits in return.

If you could describe your game in a few sentences and to why you could help any professional team now what words would you chose?

I am a very tough player. Good point guard that can score easily but also get team involved. Really good 3 point shot. Any team would be good to get me because I give it my all every time on the court and I am good in the community.

You played professionally in Mexico this season averaging 25ppg. If nothing comes out of this basketball trip in Germany what will be the next step for Barry Johnson?

Yes I played pro in Mexico where I averaged 25ppg and 5apg. My highest scoring game was 42 points. Hopefully I get a look in Germany with a team but if not maybe I can get a contract in Australia

What is the state of Lebron James in 2015? Do you think that he will ever be mentioned in the same breath as a Michael Jordan?

Lebron is a VERY good player. He can do it all. Him, Jordan, and Kobe are all the same caliber of player.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I watched was ” Straight Outta Compton” a biography about an old rap group NWA. It was really good.

Thanks Barry for the chat.

Thanks for the interview I hope to have some luck getting interest with teams. If anyone is interested and want more info or film they can contact me on facebook at Barry Johnson or by email at barrykeairjohnson@yahoo.com

Giordan Watson is a 29 year old 178cm guard from Southfield Michigan that will be playing in Turkey this season for Usak Sportlif (Turkey-BSL). He played the last two seasons for CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (Romania-Liga Nationala). He is an unselfish player who gets others involved but also has the ability to score if needed. He sparks the team with passing and ball movement and is a great defender. He played at Central Michigan from 2004-2008 and in his senior season he played 31 games averaging 16.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3Pts: 38.6%, FT: 75.0%. As a rookie he played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven playing 33 games averaging 10.1ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-5(3.8apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 47.7%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 73.4%. In 2009-2010, he played for the Giants Noerdlingen (Germany-ProA) playing 17 games: 15.2ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-4(5.2apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 72.7. In 2010-2011 he played for  UMFN Njardvik (Iceland-Express League) playing 6 games: 22.7ppg, 3.7rpg, 7.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 68.4%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 75.8%. In 2011-2012, he played for U.M.F. Grindavik (Iceland-Express League) playing 31 games: 16.3ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-1(7.2apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT-2(43.4%), FT: 78.3%. In 2012-2013 he played for Karhu Kauhajoki (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 53 games: 16.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 83.3%. Last season for CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu, he played 33 games averaging 14.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.9apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 59.7%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 82.3%; EuroChallenge: 17 games: 14.7ppg, 2.8rpg, 5.1apg, Steals-2(1.9spg), FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 86.0%. He led the team into the Eurochallenge final 4. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball and his new challenge in Turkey.

Giordan thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how was your summer?

Hey Miles, I’m currently in Turkey, at training camp with my team. Summer was cool, seeing my family and friends after a long season was amazing.

It seems like ages ago, but it was only four months ago when you were in Turkey playing the Eurochallenge Top 4 reaching a third place. Are there still plays vivid in your head or is that a distant memory?

You never forget things like that, but now it’s all about moving forward and achieving new goals. Memories like that become special when the playing days are over but not when you are trying to make more special moments.

You won one title with CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (Romania-Liga Nationala) the cup in 2014. How would you summarize your two seasons there?

It was a great experience there. I grew as a player and point guard, made life long friends, and achieved memorable things there. Everything wasn’t beautiful but I have positive memories from my time there.

After strong seasons in lower leagues Iceland and Finland, you came to Romania in 2013. With what kind of feelings did you go to Romania? Did you feel like this was perhaps one of your last chances to recommend yourself for a higher league?

Going to Romania honestly was a 2 year process. I knew the team had high aspirations to play internationally and that is something I liked. Winning the cup my first season allowed us to play in EuroChallenge, so I came back the next season. The second season was all about getting European exposure. I needed this to get back to the level of basketball I felt I was capable of playing at. I think my plans and goals worked out well, even though leaving a team in Romania I had a good relationship with was not the easiest.

You played the last two seasons in Romania for CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (Romania-Liga Nationala). How important do you view these two years in the further development of Giordan Watson the basketball player?

It was great. I learned a lot from both coaches I had. My second year head coach, Antonis Constantinides was amazing. He really pulled the best out of me without knowing. I’m sure if you ask him he says he knows, haha, but he really helped a lot.

Congrats on the job with Usak Sportlif (Turkey-TBL) This is another step in your career and compariable in skill to the German BBL. How responsible was your stellar play in Romania for getting this job?

Thanks. It’s a blessing from God honestly. I’ve had a roller coaster of a career to say the least, so to be given an opportunity to play in arguably the best domestic league in Europe is amazing. The success we had in EuroChallenge did wonders, and having the Final Four in Trabzon, Turkey really opened doors for me. I think if the Final Four was anywhere else, I might not be here today. It allowed a different set of eyes to see me play, and I think my game is more respected when watched as supposed to stats or video.

You will be turning 30 soon. You are in your best basketball age. Can we await Giordan Watson to make the next step in Turkey on the court?

At this age, I feel I have a great understanding of the point guard position, being a leader and understanding my game. I have goals for this season, and I plan to take full advantage of this opportunity.

How do you feel basketball wise? Do you feel like you can take your game up another notch at age 30?

I feel good, body feels great and I’m ready. Really not much more to say, I’ve been waiting too long to get back on this level, it’s something I tell myself daily, so I have to take advantage.

You are in Usak Turkey now which is between Izmir on the coast and Ankara inland. What has been your first early impressions of your new second home Turkey?

Turkey is cool. I often have to force myself to embrace new places because I will easily practice, eat, and sleep! I know the history hear is rich, so I’m enjoying learning from my teammates and embracing this new culture.

What was your first dish in Turkey? Do you see yourself eating the rich Turkish dishes or stick to the local Mcdonalds?

McDonald’s? Haide Miles… I’m generally a picky eater, but the Turkish food has been really good so far! I’ll try anything once, and so far, so good.

How excited are you to be playing with guys like Sean Marshall, Tyren Johnson, Khem Birch and high scoring rookie Dangelo Harrison. Do you see yourself lending your European experience to some of these guys?

Well, our roster has changed some. No Sean and no Tyren, but I’m excited to play with Dangelo and Khem. An athletic big guy and a shooter on the wing are pieces a point guard will love. They are younger guys, so anything I can do to help, I will.

What do you see your role being? They seem to be grooming you as the starting point guard?

Point guard is tricky, every game has its own personality, so you have to feel that as fast as possible. I think it will be to control tempo, play good defense, and score when needed or available. Generally, I need to be myself on the court.

What strength of your game do you feel will be most important for you to be able to have a great season?

I really think just being myself and playing how I play will be enough. That doesn’t come without of that extreme focus and hard work, but being an unselfish point guard, that embraces defense and can score usually travels well.

It is a shame that you haven´t played in Germany anymore since 2009 after stints in Bremerhaven and Nordlingen. Do you feel like you are a bit off the radar and interest of German teams?

My rookie year was wild. We had a very talented team but could not turn it into wins. Going to Nordlingen probably wasn’t the best decision looking back but at the time, it was late in the season and I had just left some D-league opportunities, and I needed a team. It has all played into my maturity as a player/person, so I don’t regret it at all.

How much will you miss American Porter Troupe? Did he become like a brother to you in your two seasons in Romania?

P is my guy, we still talk all the time. He has played there a few seasons, and helped me out a lot in Romania. I was blessed to have great teammates in Romania.

What do you see the Detroit Pistons doing in the NBA this season?

I’m more concerned with my Detroit Lions right about now, it’s football season! Nfc North champs, easy.

What is the state of Lebron James in 2015? Will he ever be mentioned in the same breath as a Michael Jordan?

They aren’t comparable, honestly. I think people just need to respect greatness in different ways and stop debating who is better. Lebron can dominate games in a way Jordan didn’t, and vice versa. Lebron haters need to look in the mirror and chill.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Southpaw. It was a really good movie!

Thanks Giordan for the chat.