Milen Brown is a 28 year old 191cm guard from Springfield Missouri that will be playing in Germany this season for Regionaliga team BBC Bayreuth and who has had  experience playing ball in the States as he started his basketall career at Bacone College (NAIA) and as a senior averaged 13,2ppg, 6,2rpg and 4,5apg. He led the Bacone team to a conference championship and a trip to play at the nationals. After finishing school, he signed in the Minor leagues with ABA team Texas Rimrockers and played there two seasons. He really didn’t need any time to adjust to the professional level as in his two seasons there, he averaged 17.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.8apg. Brown made a very good impression there as his spirit and athletcism really sparked his team each night out on the court. It seemed like after two strong seasons in the ABA, the American might be able to make the next step and possibly get signed in  Europe, but then he suffered a major set back in his life off the court. He lost his little brother to a car accident and then he just lost touch with basketball for a time as    coping with the loss of his loved one took a great toll on his body and mind. There  were times where he thought about giving up basketball to restart his life elsewhere, but his love for the game and drive to always get better were greater than that little  voice inside him that kept doubting his basketball dream. Brown stepped back on the court again and tried his first attempt of landing in europe with a French team, but that didn’t work out, so he stayed in the states and played for the Springfield Thrill in the UBL and played two seasons averaging 27.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 4.3 apg. In 2014 the American moved to Orlando, Florida on account of his wife getting a job there and he continued to play professionally with the South Florida Spartans of the CBDL and    there he averaged 17.9 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 3.1 apg. The first time in France didn’t work out, but he has gotten a second chance with BBC Bayreuth. Brown was recommended  to BBC Bayreuth Head coach Darko Mihajlovic who developed Fraport Skyliner  national player Johannes Vogtmann in Jena and was impressed by Brown after      seeing film. Brown now at the age of 28 can finally show his abilities at a different stage in Germany and knows that now its really time to do work, because he knows that not every player gets that second chance and that it isn’t self evident. The American is thrilled about joining BBC Bayreuth. “I joined BBC Bayreuth because I still believe in my talent and ability to shoot the rock from long range. Nothing has    ever been given to me with basketball, I’ve earned or went to take it. My goal is to    stay this time overseas by any means necessary by being a team player and  coachable on both ends of the floor”, stressed Milen Brown . One thing is for sure his little brother will be watching from above whenever Milen is playing in Germany this season. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

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

No problem Miles, I’m currently in Orlando, FL at the moment, my summer has been a roller coaster with trying to figure out where my life is going at 28. I was in the process of becoming a sheriff but thought I’d give myself one last shot at basketball and thankful for God that it worked out.   

One thing I noticed about you is that you have a lot of fans or at least people that really care about you. This can´t only have to do with your ability, but this must also have to do with your character. Have you always been a popular guy in your life?

Since being a star in high school I’ve kind of been on the popular side at least the right peopleMy character hasn’t always been the best but these last few years life has humbled me into a better sibling, husband and most of all a better son of God.

I brought the story yesterday that you will start your overseas career in Germany with BBC Bayreuth. You fly over Monday. How excited are you to be making this adventure?

I’m very excited for this new journey in my life. Everything that I’ve been through these last 3 years have prepped me for this moment.

Talk a little how the contact came about with BBC Bayreuth? You had no real ties to Germany. I guess networking and internet can come in handy at times when looking for a job?

I basically just shot out some emails with my player profile and film. It was tough the first  week but as the summer went I kept getting many replies, I chose the one that had the best  situation that suited my life right now that could possibly set up my future.

Despite being 28 and playing in the minor leagues in the States do you feel a bit like an older kind of rookie coming to Germany?

Your only as old as you feel. I don’t feel any certain way, there are many of us that will go through life not getting opportunities to do what we love. I’m just blessed to be in this situation so I don’t consider my age.

You played in the minor leagues in the States the last years like the ABA and UBL. How did these experiences help you mature as a professional even if it was only semi-pro?

It definitely helped me gain more knowledge on the game in every way, whether it was knowing when and where to shoot along with how to break down a structured offense.

What do you know about the country Germany and its basketball there? Do you have any  friends playing in Germany

I just know about the food that my wife has told me about. I’ve talked to Kyle Weems who played n Bayreuth and he told me it’s a beautiful country.

There are so many guys like you that have the ability, but never really got a chance outside the States, but you will get it now in Germany. What really has kept you going all these years to go after your basketball dreams? Has the fact that people kept encouraging you that  you had the game to play at a higher level?

People have encouraged me all my life but I created the drive to always keep pushing no matter how many no’s I received. I would play in different leagues and open gyms, guys would always ask why aren’t you doing this overseas or the D-League. That question also  kept me going to prove that could play on any level if given the chance.

You lost your little brother a few years ago to a car accident. You had a rough period after  that, but recovered and kept your basketball dream alive. Has this situation made you stronger as a person on and off the court?

Man it was tough. I felt like the world stood still when I heard the news, even harder to view his body on a table. My blood pressure sky rocketed, instant nose bleed when I saw him lying there. After 2007 with losing my father me and both my brothers had grown really close. We had to be there for each other, so when he died he took a huge part of my heart with him. Definitely has made me a tougher person, I take nothing for granted.

Talk a little about your game? What are your biggest strengthes on the court and what do you do better now that at age 23 on the court?

I have an all around game. Everyone that has played against me knows I can shot, but also post up small guard using back to the basket to score easy buckets. Biggest strength is shooting from anywhere on the floor, what differs from now than at 23 is just knowledge of the game.

What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

My quickness off the dribble is a shocker. I’m a natural born shooter from long range, I confuse players on how to guard me.

How did Juan Davis prepare and groom you best for a professional basketball career when you were at Bacone?

Coach Davis treated me like family not just as a player. He always preached to go out and take what is not given. I appreciate the love he showed us as individuals.

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

I absolutely hate this comparison Miles. Two different styles of play other than being great at what they do. Lebron is a monster but will never have the killer instinct that MJ had.

What was the last movie that you saw?

I watched Into the Woods, my wife watches the movies I normally wouldn’t but for some  reason I always end up liking them.

Thanks Milen for the chat.

Omari Knox is a 28 year old 188cm guard from Brooklyn, New York that is recently finished his fifth professional season first with the Rhein Stars Koeln (Germany-Regionalliga) where he played 15 games averaging 13.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.5apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 80.6%. He started his basketball career with Bloomfield (NCAA2). In 2009, he started his basketball career in Germany with TSV Dachau Spurs (Germany-Regionalliga) where he played until 2014 playing a total of 99 games and last season played 24 games: 27.5ppg, 9.5rpg, 4.2apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3Pts: 34.7%, FT: 81.0%. In the last three seasons he averaged 26ppg. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

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

Hey Miles, It’s always a pleasure. I am currently in New Jersey. My summer has been pretty cool.

It is almost mid August and you are still looking for a team. Are you slowly getting nervous?

Yes, I definitely get a bit nervous whenever August comes around and I have not found a team. I have not had consistent representation throughout my career so I always tend to worry.

How has the team search been going this season in comparison to other years. You played four years with German Regionaliga team TSV Dachau Spurs that always kept you, but last season you made jump to aspiring RheinStars Cologne. Why has it been so difficult this summer to find a team?

The team search has been pretty difficult this season, since I am without an agent to represent me. In the past years I always had the option to return to Dachau but explored other options at the end of the season. This summer I haven’t had representation. Many teams, as I have discovered had assumed that I would be signed already or would have returned to Cologne so they did not bother to reach out to me.

Your in the best basketball age at age 28. Does it feel like there are many guards around in the world like leaves on a tree?

I feel that I’m in great shape at age 28. I think that there are just so many guards around the world like leaves on a tree.

How confident are you that you will still find a team and who has been supporting you most this summer with keeping your head up?

Even though it is pretty late in the signing process, I feel confident that someone is going to sign me for this season. I have been getting help and support from friends Moritz Korff and Fabian aka “Faboom”. They both try to keep my name out there in the market and let me know which teams are looking for players.

Last season you played for the Rhein Stars Koeln (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 15 games averaging 13.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.5apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 80.6%. With all circumstances how happy were you with your own performance in those 15 games?

I know that I could have played much better but it took some time for me to figure out exactly what my role would be for the team. I was coming from a team where I was asked to carry the bulk of the scoring load, to a team where I was surrounded by several talented and experienced players. It was not a problem for me that I wasn’t scoring huge numbers, as long as we were winning games.

Your season seemed to end in January when the club got American David Downs. Was there ever an explanation why they had to get him and you had to suffer not playing anymore?

We had some injuries within the team and the club needed to find possible replacements. When we were unable to find an EU or German guard, the club had to bring in another U.S. guard.

After being a star in the Regionaliga you suddenly didn´t play any more games, just practiced, got paid and watch games. How tough was this for your ego and how did you cope?

I admit this was a tough situation to be in, but (like I do with anything else) I made the best of it, and stayed professional. I enjoyed practice so I still was able to get plenty out of it, and stay in shape in case I decided to change teams. I also was able to play in the Pokal games with David which I enjoyed.

You have no bad words for the RheinStars Cologne. Despite not playing the second half of the season how would you describe the overall experience playing with future Beko BBL team RheinStars?

The overall experience with the Rheinstars was a success. Things did not go completely as planned, but in the end my job was to come in and help the team to win a championship and that goal was accomplished.

What did you learn in this season that you feel will help you as a player in the future?

Playing for Coach Mario and JJ Strasser, I have learned plenty! Playing in Europe the first few years, I was able to add more to things to my game, as well as gaining experience. However, I think that if I had landed a Pro A job immediately after playing in Dachau, it may not have worked out because there were so many important concepts that I had no idea about until playing this season. I enjoyed this season, regardless of how things ended and I will definitely be ready for whatever opportunity comes next.

If you could describe yourself in a few sentences as to why you could help any team now how would you do it?

I would describe myself as a multi-talented player with a team-first attitude. I am able to contribute to the team in many ways such as (scoring, defending, rebounding from the guard position, and distributing) My past numbers show that I can carry a team if necessary, but I’m also willing to do whatever it takes to win.

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

I run a mile in the morning (early before mid-day and it gets really hot). In the afternoon I go to the gym to work out. I lift weights first, and then get on the court to do some cone drills and get a lot of shots up.

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

Lebron James is a great player! The league has never seen anything like him before. However, he won’t be mentioned in the same breath as Michael Jordan.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Jurassic World.

Thanks Omari for the chat.

EJ Gallup is a 33 year old 193cm guard from Gloverville, New York that has been a professional basketball player since 2003. He is a very positive player on the court, who plays with talent and personality. Has great offensive skills and knows how to do at the defensive side. He started his basketball career at Albany (NCAA2) in 2000 and played there until 2002. He then transferred to Co.Carolina (NCAA) where he played until 2004. In his senior year, he played 29 games averaging 17.2ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 43.4%, FT: 89.6%. He started his professional basketball career in 2006 with Albany Patrons (CBA). He then moved to Germany in the same season playing for ratiopharm Ulm (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 10 games: 4.7ppg, 2FGP: 35.3%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 2-3. In 2007-2008, he returned to Ulm playing 34 games: 12.2ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 87.3%. He stepped away from the court from 2008-2011 before returning to play for the Albany Legends (IBL) averaging 17ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.6apg, 3PT: 56%(1). He returned back to Germany in 2011 and played for TBB Trier playing 10 games averaging 6.8ppg, 1.7rpg, FGP: 32.1%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 83.3%. He returned back to the United States in 2012 and played for the Schenectady Legends (IBA) the last years. He is looking to come back to Europe to play professional basketball again. He spoke to German Hoops about the game he loves.

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

I am currently home in New York. Summer has been great, been keeping very busy opening a new business and also playing in a bunch of different summer leagues and Pro Ams. For the past few months I’ve had 4-5 games a week.

Just when I thought I would never hear your name again, an agent contacted telling me that you want to come back to Europe. What has propelled you to a third comeback at almost 34 years of age? Which particular leagues and countries are you targeting right now and why? How closely have you been following the developments in European basketball in the past few years? Do you have a plan in mind or a tactic figured out to convince a team to obtain your services?

Yea, well that is part of the reason I agreed to play in so many different leagues at one time. I wanted to be in the gym every day, getting in shape and seeing how my body would respond to playing so much and I feel great. You’re only as old as you feel and I feel really good playing a lot of minutes every night. I am 33 going on 34 and I know I have plenty of gas left in the tank. It’s funny for athletes when you’re 29 you’re in your prime and then when you turn 30 you’re suddenly considered old lol. There are plenty of guys that take care of themselves overseas and in the NBA that stay productive well into their 30s. As far as countries I’m targeting, I’m really open to anything at this point. When I played in Trier I spent a lot of free time in Luxembourg and really liked it there. So Luxembourg is definitely a place I wouldn’t mind playing. Also other Leagues like Holland, Austria, UK and Switzerland I believe would be good fits for me. I still l have a lot of former teammates that are playing overseas so I try to follow them as much as possible and wish all of them nothing but the best.

You played three seasons with ratiopharm Ulm and a season with TBB Trier, never playing in any other country except Germany. What made Germany and its basketball so appealing to you? Do you still follow the career of your former coach Mike Taylor who took over the Poland national team now? How thankful are you that he helped you achieve your first real breakthrough in Europe in 2007?

Yeah, Thomas Stohl and Mike Taylor at the time signed me in Ulm, I loved my time there, myself, Brian Lucas, Jeff Gibbs, Sean Finn, Dru Joyce, Kyle Bailey, Romeo Travis, Konrad Wysoki, Sebastian Betz and the rest of the guys we had a very fun team. When it’s all said and done as a player those are the things you remember, the friendships that you make and the good times that you had. The fans there were always very good to me and at the time we were building something there in Ulm and to see where they are now is great. I still keep in contact with Mike Taylor. He’s first and foremost a great guy but also a great coach and is by no surprise to me continuing to build a very good career for himself in the coaching world and I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunity he and Thomas gave me in Ulm. The Bundesliga in my opinion is one of the very best leagues overseas. It’s very professional ,all the teams have great fan bases and there are a lot of very good players. My time in Trier was much shorter than in Ulm. There I got to reconnect with a former teammate and friend that I played with in Ulm, Dru Joyce. I’m am also very grateful to coach Henrik Roedl for the opportunity he gave me in Trier. Trier was also a very nice city and have great fans there as well and will be back on top very soon im sure.

After playing in Ulm, you opened a restaurant and then came back to play for TBB Trier. Afterwards, you yet again went back home to teach basketball. Was it difficult to stick to the life as a professional basketball player overseas? Did you not see any more long term perspective with professional basketball at age 30? Or would you say it was because basketball and making money playing basketball wasn’t your only option to make a living?

It’s funny, when I came out of college everyone said to me that I would have a 12-15 year career overseas. I have a lot of friends that are going to have those type of careers and I really respect them for that. For me I always just took it one year at a time. If there was a good situation and a good fit to play somewhere then I would play. Also if there was a good situation or opportunity for me at home doing something else then I would do that. Basketball always has been and always will be my passion but at the same time it doesn’t last forever for anyone so I always wanted to keep building things for myself to fall back on at home for when Basketball doesn’t pay the bills anymore.

You played only a short time with TBB Trier, but what do you feel was the most important thing you could gain in this period from head coach Henrik Roedl? Despite leaving prematurely, would you say you parted ways on good terms with your last team? Does the fact that you averaged good numbers despite limited minutes give you extra confidence for this new comeback?

Playing for and learning from Coach Roedl ,though only for a short time, was great. He is a guy that I knew first of as a player and a guy that has a playing career like he did for me is someone that has instant credibility to me. When you play for a coach that used to be a very successful player like Henrik the things he may point out or adjust in your game, you know it’s coming from a place of great experience. I left in good terms with him, I will email him once in a while wishing him the best. I have great relationships with every coach I’ve ever played for whether it be High School, College, or any professional team. My role in Trier was a little different than it was in Ulm, I knew that it was going to be going into my time there. I think a key to any successful team is having guys that know and accept their roles. I was a veteran to help some of the younger guys while also still being a starter, I was expected to be productive in my minutes. So that’s what I tried to do, I just made the most out of my minutes and wanted to help the team in any way possible.

In the last three years you were back in the States and coached basketball as well as stayed in shape playing for the Schenechtady Legends (IBA-PBL). How were you able to grow as an athlete and mentor during this time? What goals do you have as a player now at age 33? This will probably be your last hurra in Europe and you will surely want to make the best out of it.

Whether I am overseas or at home in the States, no matter what, I’m going to be playing ball. I think I speak for a lot of players when I say just because I’m not on a roster overseas it doesn’t mean that I’m not in shape or playing a lot of Basketball. The Schenectady Legends has been a great way for me to stay in shape, keep playing in a very competitive and high level of Basketball while being home and not overseas. This past season we went 15-0 in the IBA and won the Championship in Chicago in December. Our team in particular is full of guys that are talented enough to play overseas, so that’s a great way for me to stay on top of my game. My goals at 33 are the same as they were at 23. I’d like to find a team that is the right fit and be and immediate impact player and do whatever I can to help them win games. I realize I am closer to the end of my career than to the start of it. So if it does happen that I do make another trip overseas to play, I think I will just take it all in a little more, enjoy the little things. But it is by no means a farewell tour or swan song, I’m too competitive for that, when I go somewhere I’m there to work hard make shots and help the team win games.

You can still make the open shot at ease as there are many recent videos of you online showing you working and toning your basketball skills. Is shooting something for you that you just can´t unlearn? On the other hand, does it bother you that you might be seen as a one dimensional shooter even though you have many other fine skills, like passing and game understanding?

Shooting the basketball is obviously what I’m known for. The videos are mainly just to show teams/coaches/agents that I can shoot it now better than ever. My whole career starting in college and then overseas going into it I was just thought of as a shooter and then, after a few days with a team, my coaches were always surprised that I can also put it on the floor and make plays for others. I grew up playing point guard in high school before my last growth spurt going into college. I became a two guard. I use that to my advantage, I go into games hoping that the scouting report on me just says „stand still shooter“. It usually gives me a couple surprise moments and free opportunities every game to make a play off the dribble.

Do you have other methods now to keep your body in shape compared to, lets say, 10 years ago? What is your secret to still being in such good physical condition? Please explain why you can help any professional basketball team this season on the court. What does EJ Gallup in year 2015 have that other players don’t have?

I am much more conscious of the things I eat than I was 10 years ago, I drink a lot more water than ever but the biggest thing for me is stretching. I really have made an effort to stretch before and after all workouts and just become more flexible. If you want to play into your 30s at a high level, then these are just things you have to do to take care of your body. For me honestly I just play a lot to keep in shape, whether it’s workouts or pickup games or Pro Ams, I’m always in the gym. What I have to offer is being a veteran who has played at some of the highest levels in some of the biggest games. I bring leadership and experience to any backcourt and help spread the floor and keep double teams off any front court.

How does a normal day look like for you on and off the court in the summer of 2015?

A normal day for me this summer is working on building my business during the day and then either heading to the gym and weight room for a workout or playing in a summer league game at night.

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

In my opinion he is far and away the best player on the planet and even if he stopped playing today would be a top 5 player of all time. I am slightly biased being former teammates and friends with Dru Joyce and Romeo Travis I got to see a little bit first hand of the work Lebron puts in on his game and just really respect what he does on the court. I am not sure any great in the history of the game is so closely scrutinized, and still he continues to push through all of it and continues to dominate. But I am hoping my Knicks make some noise this season!

What was the last movie that you saw

I can’t even tell you the last full movie I’ve seen. By the time I get home at night from a game or workout and start a movie I am passed out half way through it lol

Thanks EJ for the chat

Vincent Bailey is a 23 year old 201cm forward that will play his second professional season with Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (France-NM1) and recently completed his rookie season in Germany with Pro A club SC Rasta Vechta where he played 25 games averaging 13.4ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 53.8%, FT: 64.1%. He played at Lincoln Memorial (NCAA2) from 2011-2014 and as a senior averaged 21,6ppg and 9,8rpg. He won the SAC Tournament in 2011 and 2014. He talked to German Hoops about basketball.

Vinnie thanks for talking to German Hoops How was your summer after playing your rookie season in Germany? Did it go around faster than in 2014 after finishing college?

I’ve had a great summer with good improvements, put in a lot of work and looking forward to playing with my new team Aix Maurienne. Yes it did come much faster but I’m excited for this new journey God has me on.

Before we talk about your new adventure, let us look back at your rookie season in Germany with SC Rasta Vechta. The club had high expectations, but the team was unable to live up to them. What do you believe went wrong last season from a team stand point?

Yes the expectations were high, but also reasonable with the talent we had. I believe what went wrong was to many drastic decisions and changes made through out the season. Didn’t give the team enough time to come together with the players they brought in from the beginning.

Many pointed fingers at head coach Stephen Arigbabu. Do you feel that was fair? Was his reign on the team just not strong enough?

It was not Stephens fault. Everything was new, from the coaches to the players. It takes time to build chemistry and for allof us players to buy in to the system.

SC Rasta Vechta had many very talented players playing at the Pro A level. Why was it so difficult to find team chemistry?

Some players just aren’t meant to play together. We tried but it just didn’t seem to work out. There for they kept the players that they thought were the best fit for their organization. I wish the best for them.

You played 25 games averaging 13,4ppg, 6,0rpg and 1,6apg. At first look, these stats are solid, but considering your hot start, injury and finish, you probably wasn´t as pleased as you might have liked?

No I wasn’t. With this happening has made me even hungry for success. But it was a good beginning for my professional career and I thank God for the opportunity Rasta gave me. Everything happens for a reason the lord makes no mistakes. I thank God for my good health this year and my game has developed even more. I’m ready to help my team have a successful season here in France .The injury had nothing to do with my decline in stats, it was the changes of coaches and players throughout the season that began my decline. I’m just traveling this journey God has me on until I reach my destination.

You scored in double figures in 19 of your first 20 games as you were seemingly unstoppable and then scored only 19 points in the last five games. Did your injury hamper your play at the end of the season?

Yes and no. My injury was minor. I was not getting the minutes that Stephan was giving me after they changed coaches. Which really hurt my game, as well as the changes in offense and players. It was very frustrating for me.

You had many very good games for example against Wurzburg, Nurnberg, Cuxhaven or Paderborn as well as others, but what was your season highlight?

My season highlight was the game we beat Gissen when I did not play. We actually looked like a team that was together and not apart. It made me eager to come back from my injury and rejoin my teammates. But when I came back, my minutes were not the same and my role slowly decreased and we went on a losing streak.

You experienced very much as a rookie, but what do you feel was the most important thing that you learned last season as a rookie that will help you in the future in your basketball career?

The most important thing I learned from last season is that your team has to be on one accord (Unitied), and all on the same page to have a successful season. Even now in preseason I have a great feeling for the year, all of us are together and we are all hungry to win.

You played in many gyms in your career but where does the Rasta Dome rank in the best places that you have competed in?

Rasta Dome has one of the best atmospheres I’ve played in. I love the Rasta fans and they deserve a great season. Rasta is probably the 2nd best place I’ve competed in.

Last season you and American Amir Carraway were in the same boat coming in as rookies from the NCAA2. The only difference was that you had a great rookie season and he didn´t fair much in the teams plans. Despite all that how did you guys make each other better during the season on and off the court?

We helped each other stay mentally ready even though he didn’t get as much playing time on the team, I feel as though he was one of the best shooters on our team besides Chase Griffin which was our best shooter. Amir has a lot of talent but was not utilized enough. Whoever his next team is will receive a great player as well as a great person. His hungry to prove what he is capable of and he will be successful.

This season SC Rasta Vechta have signed high class guys as well as keeping American Chase Griffin. They really want to move up to the BBL again. Is there a better guy on the team than Griffin to lead the club in that direction?

Chase is a great player and person , I think he will be the key part of Rasta moving up to the BBL.

Now lets talk about your new adventure in France with Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (France-NM1). You will be playing in the third division France. What were the main reasons for coming to this team?

The league is very competitive, my role here is key from the beginning. The system is great for me, similar to my college offense. It’s a great situation for me to show my capabilities to the fullest and mainly help this team achieve their goals to have a successful season and Gods willing help move us back to Pro B.

Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (France-NM1) played for many years in the France Pro B and now moved down a level. Is their primary goal to move right back up?

Primary goal is to have a good year and move up either this year or next. Our team is well put together with all the right pieces to achieve some great goals.

You are living in Maurienne in a very mountainous area near the Italian border and very different to the lansscape in Vechta. What has been your experience living in France where I don´t think you will be hearing as much English as in Vechta.

France is a beautiful country and I stay in Aix les bains which has been great so far. It has been good. No I haven’t heard as much English as in Germany but I feel much better starting out preseason here in France than my preseason last year.

You have been practicing with the team. How would describe the level of play in comparison to the German pro A last season?

Not much of a difference if any. Just less imports for us, which is better in my opinion. I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead of us.

You have mostly French players on the team, but with 36 year old Steffon Bradford a very experienced American that has played in six countries and will be playing his seventh season in France. How important was it having him around at the start of your new adventure?

Steffon is a great guy, and from the beginning I knew he was a real one and a true leader. I’m looking forward to getting as much knowledge from him as possible as we band together to lead the team to success lords willing.

Besides winning games, what is your goal with your own game in your second professional season?

Win a Championship.

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

We will see how he will define himself. Michael Jordan will always be the greatest. Lebron still has year(s) left

What was the last movie that you saw?

Paid in full

Thanks Vinnie! All the best in France this season.

Tony Bishop is a 26 year old 201cm forward that is starting his fifth professional season and first in Germany with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Before coming to Bremerhaven he has played in Denmark, Lithuania, Puerto Rico and the D league. He started his basketball career in 2007 with Richland CC (JUCO) where he played two seasons and then went to Texas tech where he played from 2009-2011 playing a total of 62 NCAA games and as a senior played 32 games averaging 13.1ppg, 8.1rpg, 1.2spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 57.5%, FT: 63.8%. In 2011, he started his professional basketball career with Aalborg Vikings (Denmark-Ligaen) playing 26 games and averaging 19.0ppg, Reb-2(11.3rpg), 1.6apg, Steals-5(2.3spg), Blocks-5(1.6bpg), FGP: 49.9%, FT: 72.6%. In the 2012-2013 season he played for Nevezis Kedainiai (Lithuania-LKL) playing 17 games averaging 10.8ppg, Reb-2(8.3rpg), 1.4spg, FGP: 50.0%, FT: 61.4%; Baltic League: 10 games: 9.4ppg, 6.9rpg, FGP: 52.1%, FT: 54.5%. He then returned back to the states and played two seasons with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers (D-League) playing atotal of 98 games and last season played 50 games averaging 15.5ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 54.7%, 3FGP: 35.0%, FT: 78.1%. Recently he laced up his sneakers for Atleticos de San German (Puerto Rico-BSN) playing 25 games averaging 15.1ppg, 8.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 73.2%. He spoke to German Hoops recently before coming to Germany.

Tony thanks for taking some time to talk to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

I’m in Dallas at the moment my summer has been good. I was in Puerto Rico most of it. Returned to Dallas couple weeks ago.

You may not have played in the NBA the last year, but you almost played a full NBA season in equivalence of game playing 75 games in nine months in the D-league and in Puerto Rico. How was your body feeling on June 26th after the last game against Ponce? I guess a 30 year old might have had a different answer than you?

Lol of course a 30 year old would. But I feel great. I took some time off to recover then returned with full force.

Do you take a different approach to your short summer now in preparation for the new season? Do you work out less and rest and work more on the mental aspect of the game and watch film or how does your summer look like?

Since this is my first summer doing the longer seasons I just took a little break spent time with my son and family.

Congrats on signing with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. In my article I had the title that you bring the perfect mix of here and there meaning you played two seasons in Europe and two seasons in the D-league. How important do you believe this mix is for your development as you plan to start your fifth professional season?

I believe having that mix is great because I know what type of game Europe is. It’s more physical and you have to think a lot more in my opinion. Game is slowed down and more team basketball then the D league.

You had NBA work outs in the summer of 2014 with teams like the Houston Rockets, and San Antonio Spurs after a solid first season with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, but you had even better stats last season with them. Was the possibility of getting an NBA training camp invitation not an option or pursuing the NBA more after a strong D-league season?

The possibilities were high. But I went to Puerto Rico right after so I wasn’t able to attend mini camps to showcase my skills again in front of gms and coaches. I believe if I would have went to Puerto Rico for a short period I would have been on a summer league roster.

What is your summary of the D-league after having played there for two seasons? What did you enjoy most about your time with Rio Grande and what were some of the moments that you would rather forget?

My summary of the d league, I believe the d league is a great showcase for first year players out of college and guys who were in the league but had problems trying to get back in. D league showed me a lot learning from all types of coaches gaining their knowledge on the game. Rio Grande was a great place to start and they really take it serious. They have the best facilities and take care of their players. The city was good showed a lot of love for us. Moments I would rather forget is not making it to the championship where we were one game away my first year it was tough.

What memories do you have of Tim Ohlbrecht with the Vipers. His stay was short in the States as he made the big show playing 3 NBA games and is back in Germany now. Was his game and character simply to upright to survive in the NBA?

Big Tim that’s my guy! He is a great guy and is a NBA player. He works hard and has the ability!

What were the main reasons for signing in Germany with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven? What convinced you most that this club would be the perfect fit for you?

My agency and I thought it would be a great start back to Europe because the Eisbaren is a great organization and it’s a top league in Europe.

After playing in countries like Denmark and Lithuania what do you know in general about the country Germany and its basketball? Do you have any friends playing in Germany?

I’m excited! I know Germany is very professional and handles everything well. As of now I don’t think I have friends in Germany playing right now. But I’m sure I will know a few players.

The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven are starving for success. The club is looking for a longer drought period to reach the playoffs again. Besides winning every goal what other things do you want to achieve on the court with your game?

Individual accolades will come when winning comes that’s not my focus only thing is building chemistry and trying to win games.

You have the complete package at 201cm in that you can score, rebound and hit the three with consistency, but what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the floor?

My hidden strength is defense I can guard 1-4 and my passion for the game will show on the court

As a rookie you played for Aalborg in Denmark playing 26 games and averaging 19.0ppg, Reb-2(11.3rpg), 1.6apg, Steals-5(2.3spg), Blocks-5(1.6bpg), FGP: 49.9%, FT: 72.6%. What was your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were very far away from Texas?

Well in Denmark I played with my college pg so it wasn’t tough for me because we helped each other out being so far from home.

How important was it having your Texas State teammate Ryan White on the team as a rookie? Do you think that you guys will ever be teammates again?

I hope we could play together again.

In your second season you played in a higher league in Lithuania where you were the only American, but was able to have a solid season. When looking back on this season where you also balled in the Baltic league, what was most challenging coming from the weaker Danish league?

Only struggle I had in Lithuania was being the only American on the team. It was rough for me and switching coaches who didn’t speak a language I knew was hard I had to adjust and refocus my game.

Before playing two seasons at Texas State you played at Richland community college where you were NJCAA DIII Champion. How important was it making this experience early knowing that you can reach the next level the NCAA even if the odds are against you?

Well odds have always been against me. I have always been the underdog. My team at Richland we worked extremely hard to achieve that goal. I never been on a team that worked as hard as those guys I was with those guys for two years at Richland and they are my brothers for life!

You played under Doug Davalos in your last two seasons at Texas State. How did he prepare and groom you best for a professional basketball career?

Doug Davalos is a great guy he gave me my chance at division 1 basketball and he always had my back always. But I prepared myself for professional basketball with all the hard work I put in when no one was looking

Who would win a one on one in practice you or Cameron Johnson when you were a senior?

Of course I’m going to say me. Cam and I went at it in practice very physical lol a lot of blood and bruises.

What is the state of Lebron James in 2015? What does he still need to do to be mentioned in the same breath as Michael Jordan?

I don’t think he should be compared to Jordan. Lebron is a bigger more smarter player in my opinion and he is more like Magic Johnson.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Last movie I saw was minions haha I took my son to see it he had a blast!

Thanks Tony for the chat.

Brandyn Curry is a 23 year old 187cm point guard from Huntersville, North Carolina that will be playing his second professional season in Germany with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. As a rookie he completed his first season in Europe for the SPM Shoeters Den Bosch (Holland-Eredivisie). In his rookie season in Holland he played 33 games averaging 14.9ppg, 4.1rpg, Assists-2(5.0apg), 2.0spg, FGP: 58.9%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 83.7%; EuroChallenge: 12 games: 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%. He had the chance to talk with German Hoops during his short lay over in Munich before flying to his new second home Bremerhaven.

Thanks Brandyn for the quick chat with German Hoops. You were one of the first imports signed this season. Did your summer pass by as fast from the signing with Bremerhaven until now as a lightening trip from Den Bosch to Eindhoven for a nice evening of good Dutch soccer?

Hey Miles no problem at all. Haha yeah that’s a pretty good analogy of how quick the summer went for me. I’m on the way to Bremerhaven right now and I feel like I just got back home from Den Bosch not too long ago

You had a short lay over in Munich. Did you think about this season and the challenge that you will encounter when you will be playing against Euroleague and most famous German sports brand Bayern Munich?

Yeah I have definitely thought about the new challenges I will face this year in the BBL. Im very excited and looking forward to meeting this challenges head on. The league has a lot of great teams and players so every night will be tough. Nothing better than that

You moved to a higher league, but with moving to the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven you have sacrificed not playing international competition. What will you miss most about squaring off against foreign teams?

Playing in the Eurochallenge was a great experience for me last year. I really enjoyed traveling to different countries and playing against so many good teams. Definitely going to miss all that

You will have extra time to prepare for each weekend´s game in the Beko BBL with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Do you see yourself having a different type of mental approach each week in practices and before games than what you had as a rookie where everything was still fairly new for you?

I am looking forward to the extra perpetration time. One thing with playing internationally too is the travel and multiple games do make it tougher to prepare for league games. I feel like I got used to doing that though and handled it pretty well. So I think once I get the hang of our weekly schedule this year the extra time will prove to be very useful to me in my second year.

This season you have a different kind of talent than what you had last season with Den Bosch. How much are you looking forward to playing with so many talented guys?

I cannot wait to get to meet all the guys on the team. I feel like we have the pieces to have a really good team and we just have to put it all together during the preseason. I learned a lot from the my teammates last year and I have no doubt I will continue to learn and improve from the talented players I’ll be playing with in Bremerhaven

What part of your game do you see profiting more especially when you have a totally different type of basketball IQ around you for each play on the court?

I feel like the court will be even more open for me to make the right play whether it be scoring or setting my teammates up. When you are surrounded by talented players who all have high Basketball IQ it just makes the game that much easier for you. Opponents can’t just key in on one player and that opens the floor for everyone else

How much do you see yourself profiting from new teammate Jerry Smith at the guard position who is a guy that played 5 NBA games for the New Jersey nets in the 2011-2012 season when you were playing your second season at Harvard. Is taking on a leadership possible on such a team where there is experience?

Getting to play with and learn from Jerry is one of the things I’m looking forward to the most. He obviously is a very talented player who has been successful on every level so I’m going to learn as much as possible from him. I still feel I can have a leadership role even though I’m one of the younger guys on a team of vets. It doesn’t have to be vocally all the time it could just be leading by example and bring my best every single day to push everyone else. I know I will be learning a lot from these guys.

What are you most proud of the past few months in your summer work out schedule that you feel will come in handy right away when you have to show a good figure in the first weeks of practice?

I think I am in great shape right now. Even though my summer was short, after my cruise I got right back to work with my trainers. They turned it up a notch this summer and I feel like I improved to another level again so I am very happy with the work I put in with them.

Before heading to Germany you got a book as a gift called the Carpenter by Jon Holland. As a Harvard man how important is reading and always challenging the mind even for a professional basketball player? Can it help out on the court?

Oh yeah the lessons I learn from the books I read most certainly translate to the court. One thing I’ve learned from the players before me is that the game is more mental than people realize. Having the right mindset and attitude can have a significant impact on your play. These books help keep me mentally sharp

If you had to make a rough estimation at how many towns you visited last season that had rivers running left and right what would you calculate and what will you miss most form your rookie season in Holland?

Ha I really have no idea I’m going to say about 5. I’m going to miss the people of Den Bosch a lot. All of my teammates, coaches, and supporters of the team really made me feel at home last year. They are such great people and I was so fortunate to get to start my career off there.

NBA teams have signed many guys for their training camp places that weren´t drafted. What signing really made you happy to see giving that guy another step in possibly making his NBA dream come true?

My teammates Wesley Saunders and Kyle Casey from Harvard both are going to have a chance to make an NBA roster through training camp. Wes with the Knicks and Kyle with the Suns. They are some of most talented players I’ve ever played with so it really made me happy to see them get their chance to make their dreams a reality.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Just saw ‘Focus’ on my 9 hour plane ride!

Thanks Brandyn for the chat.

Jermel Kennedy is a 25 year old 201cm forward from Toronto Canada that is currently playing with Club Atletico Marne Montevideo (Uruguay-Metropolitan) an dthen will head back to Europe to start his third professional season with Cocinas.com CB Clavijo Logrono (Spain-LEB Gold. Last season he played for AB Contern (Luxembourg-Total League), in Oct.’14 signed at Porvoon Tarmo (Finland-1st Division) playing 28 games averaging 18.0ppg, 9.3rpg, 2.7apg, Steals-2(2.3spg), FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 24.7%, FT: 72.9%. He played his rookie season in the German Pro B with TV Langen in 2013-2014 where he played 24 games averaging 16.5ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.0apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 78.1%. He started his basketball career in 2008 with  Iowa Central Community College (NJCAA) playing 26 games: 4.3ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP:47.3%, FT: 57.1%. In 2009-2010, he played for Volunteer State Community College (NJCAA) playing 27 games: 11.7ppg, 8.2rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 26.0%, FT: 83.0%. He finished his college basketball career at Lander in 2012 playing two seasons there and as a senior played  27 games: 11.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 66.1%, FT: 70.5%. In 2013 he was drafted by Moncton Miracles (NBL Canada,1rd(6). He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Jermel thanks for talking to German Hoops The last time I saw you was about 16 months ago when you played your last game for TV Langen. Since then you have played in Luxemburg, Finland and Uruguay and now you will start a new journey in Spain. If someone had told you then in Langen that you would turn into a basketball globe trotter what would you have said?

Thanks for having me again Miles it always a pleasure speaking with you. I probably wouldn’t believe them. I’m honestly feel really grateful to have had the opportunity to travel to so many different places, experience different cultures, and learn so much about the different styles of basketball.I’m very excited to explore and learn about Spain, and can’t wait to see what experiences I’ll be able to take away from the time I’ll be spending there.

You played your rookie season in Germany and second season in Luxemburg, Finland and Uruguay. Do you feel like you have grown up as a basketball player in the last year with all that you have experienced?

I definitely learned a lot from all of those teams and places I have had the opportunity to be a part of, so yes I feel like I have grown much as a basketball player as well as a person and that’s what I strive for to learn and absorb as much as possible in any team or place I go

You had a short stay in Luxemburg with AB Contern and then signed with Porvoon Tarmo (Finland-1st Division). After your short stay in Luxemburg how confident were you that you would still be able to turn your second season around in Finland?

I never lose confidence in myself or my abilities so I didnt waiver at all. I was just looking for the opportunity to be somewhere permanent since AB Contern only had me for a couple weeks

In Finland you played 28 games averaging 18.0ppg, 9.3rpg, 2.7apg, Steals-2(2.3spg), FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 24.7%, FT: 72.9%. Finland is known to be a league where especially Americans like to go to to bolster their stats and to recommend themselves for higher leagues. You also had no problems getting adjusted quickly and playing very consistent. Do you feel this strong season had mostly to do with getting you the new job with Cocinas.com CB Clavijo Logrono (Spain-LEB Gold).

I strongly believe it did Miles. I felt like I did most of what I wanted to do last season and I am just happy it payed off and CB Clavijo noticed

Is the first Finish league a league where defense takes a back seat? The league is dominated by the import players?

I wouldnt say that I was pretty impressed with some of the defenders in the league but the league was definitely dominated by the import players most teams had 3 imports and they could all play at the same time so there were some pretty competitive games I would say

You obviously wanted to help Porvoon Tarmo (Finland-1st Division) win as many games, but on what things in your game do you believe were improved in this very strong season?

The biggest improvement I would say was my overall confidence just went up , not to say I wasn’t confident before it was just different there were just some games I felt like everything was clicking and I was focused in all aspects and the ball would just find its way in. I believe that came from getting the experience and listening and learning from my coach and my teammates as well

You scored in double figures in 27 of 28 games and had 11 double doubles. You had some huge games. What was your season highlight?

The one game that probably resonates with me the most and my season highlight was when we played Fokopo for the third time going into their gym 0-2 and finally beating them. I finished with 32 points and 12 rebounds and went 14-15 from the field my EFF was 42 that game

Who would win a one on one in practice you or Jerrah Young?

We played once me him and my other teammate. Jerrah left on top and I still owe him one.

You also played in Uruguay for Club Atletico Marne Montevideo (Uruguay-Metropolitan) which is actually still going on. You had a two month break between Finland and Uruguay. What were the main reasons for playing in Uruguay? Was extra game competition more important than the monotony of summer workouts in Canada?

Well it was actually a one month break between the two, I felt it would be more important for me to gain some more pro experience and also to get my name out there on another continent. I have learned a ton here and I have been slowly applying what I learned to parts of my game the best form of learning is playing so the summer workouts I had to miss so I could apply what I worked on last summer this season

What kind of experience has Uruguay been for you? Where would you rate the basketball and have they made you into soccer fans yet? Lol

It has been an overall learning experience nonetheless the culture and everything here is just eye opening if you care to pay attention there is a lot of beauty to go and see. I am not sure how to rate the basketball its difficult to gauge but its really physical and tough. Soccer is growing on me and I have seen one game so far live and I really enjoyed the atmosphere of it all

Congrats on signing with Cocinas.com CB Clavijo Logrono (Spain-LEB Gold). You now are playing in the second division in Span and the highest level so far in your professional career. How excited are you about this opportunity and will you be ready come September after you leave Uruguay?

Thank you I am pretty excited to embark on this new opportunity and I am up for the challenge and I am prepared and ready

Have you been practicing Spanish in Uruguay for Spain? You will be living in Logrono which is about 130km from Bilbao in the north. Have you had any talks with the coach? This is also a league where the import players play a major role. Do you see yourself being a central figure of the offense?

I have picked up some things here and there so my Spanish is not the greatest. I have spoke to coach a bunch we got the chance to touch base with each other on the upcoming season and things he will expect of me etc .Whichever role he has me in I will accept surely it will be for the better of the team

How excited are you to be playing with Czech national player and point guard Jakub Kudlacek who has played many years in the top Italian league. He is a pick and roll type of player that will get you the ball.

I am excited to play with him and all my teammates it will be interesting to see so many different styles working collectively to pursue one goal. Jakubs extensive experience will be perfect and I have heard great things about him

You really have come a long way from community colleges to Lander(NCAA) and lower leagues in Europe to Spain. Do you feel like there is still much upside in your game and potential that will still propel to bigger and better things down the road?

I am optimistic on what I can bring to the table but my focus right now is just improving my skills and honing my craft and see how far it will take me

Canada recently played at the Pan American games and got a silver medal. Canadian basketball continues to be on the rise. How big are your aspirations of one day wearing the colors of your country?

The opportunity to represent my country would be a great one. I am really proud of my country and representing my country one day is high on my bucket list

Could you imagine returning to the Beko BBL after a strong season in Spain?

If the opportunity presented itself I would be more than happy to put into consideration

If you had to ask your friend David Pruitt advice about basketball what would you ask him now that he is a college basketball coach?

I would ask him on things to better my game since he has experience on player development now and I am sure he can show me new things

Where do you see the journey of the Toronto Raptors ending this season?

I expect great things from them this upcoming year dont sleep on the Raps Miles

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

James is in his own lane he will go down as one of the greats. I am not much on comparing to different kind of players

What was the last movie that you saw?

Dinocroc vs. Supergator and I must say it was Dino-mite and Croc-Tastic.

Thanks Jermel for the chat.