Cameron Adams is a 22 year old 196cm forward from FT Smith, Arkansas that will start his professional career in Germany with the Schwenningen Panthers. He played at Drury(NCAA2) from 2011-2015 and as a senior played 17 games averaging 15.8ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 66.4%, FT: 76.3%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Cameron thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how have you been enjoying your summer in 2015?

Currently, I am living in Springfield Missouri and working out to prepare for the upcoming season in Germany. I have been thoroughly enjoying my summer so far and I have been spending a lot of time with my family and friends before I head to Germany and begin the offseason with my team.

How crazy is it that you left the Panthers and now will be joining the German Panthers. When you look back at the last 4 years at Drury, what was the secret to the grit of the Drury Panthers when you were there?

It is completely crazy and unexpected I just thankful for the opportunity to continue playing the sport I love. There was no secret to the Drury Panthers we just had a great group of guys who all wanted to play our hearts out on the court and that paired with our Coach led us to having a successful four years at Drury.

Congrats on your first professional contract with German Regionaliga team Schwenningen Panthers. How excited are you to make the trek to Germany soon and start your professional basketball career?

I am very excited to make the trek to Germany! I have never been out of the country before so to get the chance to see a whole new country and play basketball is an amazing experience and a blessing! I’m am too excited to put it into words.

What was your first experience like the last few months entering the very competitive transfer shark tank and trying to land that first contract? Did you have other offers?

My experience has been eye opening and enlightening. I had never been through a process like this before and I did not even know how to get started in this field. I had some great people to help me out with everything and explain things when I had questions. Honestly, no I did not have any other offers, a team from Denmark had asked about me but they never offered me a contract. I mean of course it would be nice to have multiple offers on the table, but I did not i’m going to work hard this year so that I have more offers on the table for next year!

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

I had a few friends from college that were from Germany so all I know about the country is what they told me but I am in the process of learning about the country’s culture, landmarks, and food. Food is very important to me and I’m excited to try authentic German food. Brandon Lockhart and the other is Sanayika Shields played in Germany and all played at Drury.

Were you able to talk to Panthers head coach Alen Velcic? What was your first impression of him?

I was able to talk to Coach Velcic. My first impression of the Coach is that he is a very passionate and driven and has a love for the game of baskeball. The two of these things combined make for a great coach in my opinion I cant wait to meet him face to face and shake his hand and play for him.

He is very impressed by your game. How quickly did you notice that he really wanted you on his team?

I noticed he wanted me on the team early into our conversation. He was very straight-forward about what he wanted in a player next year and how I could help move the team move forward in the coming year.

He described you as very athletic with a good drive, but you can also shoot the three. What is your biggest strength on the court?

My strength on the court is definitely my athleticism, I use it to my advantage on the defensive end, and in turn it allows me to drive and attack the basket on the offensive end as well.

Another strength is your leadership role. You had to take over that role as a senior at Drury and at times get in the faces of your teammates. Which NBA player would you best like to compare yourself with how you showed your leadership skills and getting into a teammates face if needed?

Well my favorite NBA player is Kobe Bryant but I don’t believe I am as stern worded as he is on the court. Still I would say I want to embody his passion and leadership on the court.

You are a very versatile shooter and your high field goal percentage in the 60´s really stands out for a player at 196cm. But what is a hidden strength in your game that you believe isn´t noticed right away on the court?

I do not believe I have a hidden strength I just play hard for the entire time that I am on the court. I just love the game.

It seems having that knack of playing under the NCAA always gets players very motivated and hungry. Your coming from an NCAA 2 school and now have to reprove yourself again in the fourth German league. Do you feel like you always have to revent yourself and prove yourself?

Yes, you always have to prove yourself no matter what. You can have a good year one year and if you just think people will back down you are crazy. I love having the opportunity to prove myself.

It has been two years since winning the NCAA 2 title, but what still is most vivid in your mind about this glorious evening for Drury?

The whole game was memorable from beginning to end I would say what I remember most about it was when our point guard Brand Lockhart made a lay-up and got fouled and for the first time all season showed real emotion and screamed at the crowd.

If you look back at that title game, how important was the game of Alex Hall not only in that game, but in the title run season?

Alex was vital to our title run. Our offense ran through him and Brandon. We would first get him open and then play off of that. I loved it because he was a great player because he made the game easier for people around him. That is what great players do.

You always have much talent, developed further as a player at Drury, but some credit much also go to head coach Steve Hesser. How was he able to prepare you best for a professional basketball career at Drury?

The best lessons that he taught me were to never be satisfied because when you are satisfied that is when you stop growing. Complacency is the enemy of progress. The second lesson he taught me “big time is where you are at.” That one speaks for itself.

Who would win a one on one in practice last season you or Mike Nwelue?

I would. Mike is a great players but I am not losing. Besides you can ask him and he would tell you I would win too.

How does a typical summer work out day look like for you on and off the court in 2015?

Depends on the day I have never played professionally so I do not know what the workouts will be like. I usually go for a run in the morning, then I will lift weights and shoot afterward and I go shoot again for about an hour later in the day.

Did you have more of a bond to college basketball growing up simply because where you came from in Arkansas and later at Drury Missouri, there is no NBA team to follow or go to games?

Actually my favorite team is the L.A. Lakers but growing up I would watch as many of their games on TV as I could. I do have a strong connection to college basketball but where I grew up and not having the chance to attend more professional games did not deter me.

What is the state of Lebron James in 2015? He just lost the NBA title. Everybody is making the Michael Jordan comparisons. What does king James need to do to be mentioned in the same breath with Jordan or is he already?

Lebron will never be what Michael was until he passes him in championships the same as Kobe. Until someone wins 6 championships they cannot be compared to Jordan.. He is a great player and one of the greatest all time but I will never have respect for him the same way as Michael because Jordan mastered almost every asset of the game and he did not make a spectacle out of the game like Lebron has done at times. Still lebrons finals performace last year was amazing he put up numbers that only Jordan has and he led a team of no names to the finals. Give Lebron another 6 years and ask this question again and my answer my be different .

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD I saw was the Gambler with Mark Wahlberg it was a great movie.I was surprised how good it actually was I love watching movies and I did not see that movie when it was in theaters because I did not think it would be good at all.

Thanks Cameron for the chat.

Eric Kibi is a 24 year old 198cm forward from Ontario, Canada that just completed his second season in Germany and first with Basketball Club Rendsburg (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 20,5ppg and 15,0rpg. He started his basketball career in 2008 with Jacksonville College (NJCAA) where he played until 2010. He then played a season with UALR (NCAA) playing 29 games: 4.4ppg, 4.2rpg. He finished his college career in 2012 with Abil.Christian (NCAA2) playing 20 games: 8.2ppg, 5.7rpg, FGP: 60.0%. In 2012 he started his professional basketball career with Abil.Christian (NCAA2) playing 20 games: 8.2ppg, 5.7rpg, FGP: 60.0%. Last season he played with Ottawa SkyHawks (NBL Canada): 29 games: 4.4ppg, 4.7rpg. He will play in the German Pro B next season for Herten. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Eric thanks for taking some time to talk to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how have you been enjoying your summer?
I was in Albuquerque, New Mexico for most of the summer which is where I went to high school, pretty much training with the high altitude and visiting friends and family. Now I’m back home in Canada for my last 3 weeks before I head back to Germany.

Congrats on getting signed by the Herten Lions. How relieved are to have made the next step in the German basketball world moving up from Regionaliga to Pro B?
Thank You, it feels great to make that move up but at the end of the day I expected that out of myself at the beginning of the season so I’m happy I reached my goal.

After your rookie season with BG Halstenbek/Pinneberg where you had very strong stats of 19/9, you played a short season in Canada and then came back to Germany to play for Rendsburg. Do you feel that these two seasons were needed for your game to develop more so that you would be 100% ready for the Pro B now?
I kind of agree with that, I feel like I could of played ProB after my rookie year but the opportunity to play in my hometown in Ottawa was too much to pass up. Even though I struggled with playing time in Canada that year in the NBL it made me so hungry because of the high level guys that I practiced with everyday day.

How thankful are you for Ballinforlife Faboom who got you the contact to Herten. He may be the youngest agent in the making.
Haha Faboom is my man, he’s so passionate about the game and knows so many people so I’m thankful for him for sure.

Will the adjustment on and off the court be made easier with your buddy Deandre Lansdowne? How happy are you that he will be with you on the team?
Oh most definitely, he was one of the first guys I met when I moved to the states to play ball when I was 15 and we been great friends ever since. This summer we trained together all summer and played in many tournaments so we definitely have a good feel for each other’s games. As far as off court with him and the other Canadian Justin Dennis I think it’ll be great to have those guys around.

What have you been working on your game mostly this summer so that you will arrive in the German Pro B best prepared?
I’ve been working really hard to get my jump shot more consistent as well as my ball handling. I feel like last season I made a good step as far as being more confident in my shot but obviously I could still be better so I’m making sure I’m prepared because I know defenses will already be prepared for my slashing and athleticism.

Do you see yourself being a dominant player in the Pro B? What do you feel will be your biggest asset for Herten?
I definitely see myself as being a dominant player I don’t say this because I’m cocky but because I know how hard I work at my craft. I definitely can score but I think I can do more than just that because I have such a high motor. With the things I feel like I’ve added this summer to my game add that to the 15 rebounds a game and I think thats the best way I can help my team win every night.

You had a great season for Basketball Club Rendsburg (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 22 games: 20.5ppg, Reb-1(15.0rpg), 1.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 17.4%, FT: 63.4%. However the team finished in eighth place with a record of 8-14. Why wasn´t the team able to perform better as a unit?
You know the season was a bit difficult at times we would win a few in a row and then lose a few so it was definitely challenging. Sometimes as a team we didn’t make the best decisions in clutch times. Overall this season taught me a lot and I’m thankful for the opportunity in Rendsburg.

You were one rebound away from finishing the season with 22 double doubles in 22 games. Your 13/9 stats against Bernau was stat wise probably your worst game. Do you remember these kind of games even now?
Oh I definitely remember that game, that was probably my worst game as pro. Give credit to Bernau though they were probably the best defensive team in our league. I appreciate games like that though because I watch those games on film in the summer and see the things I can work on.

All in all where you able to satisfy your season goals with Basketball Club Rendsburg (Germany-Regionalliga) Was the season a success for your own game or do you feel that you could of played even better?
I was satisfied with my season but of course I feel like I could of played even better to help the team win more games. There’s a few games that I feel if I was given more of an opportunity to stay in the flow of the game we could of won. I look forward to improving on last seasons success this year in Herten, I’m excited for the new challenge.

Was your 28/26 your season highlight against Cottbus or was it another game?
That was definitely the highlight of the season because we won and I was able to actually hit a buzzer beater to win but to me it was more special because it was such a great team win after we lost our first 3 games of the season so it was a great feeling. The stats are just a bonus.

In the Regionaliga it is always interesting to see how much the talent level varies with the German players as you have young and old. If you had to choose a German player that could make the next step who would you choose from last years team?
The best German player I saw this season was Konstantin Kovalev of Alba Berlin. Even though he’s a young guy, that guy competed and went at me every play and I really respected that, hes long and athletic, he has a bright future.

How does a summer day work out session look like for you in 2015 on and off the court?
I’ll get up around 5:15am eat a good breakfast go play pickup at 6am at a local high school after that we get in the lift, swim and run for cardio and steam room. We then conclude the day with an on the court workout finished off with 1000 shots on the shooting machine.

What is the state of Lebron James in 2015? Will he ever be mentioned in the same breath with Michael Jordan?
Lebron is my favorite player for sure but I think to be mentioned with Jordan he has to win more championship but he’s definitely the most gifted athlete we have ever seen.

What was the last movie that you saw?
Haven’t seen a movie in a while but I’ve been watching the show Power.

Thanks Eric for the chat

Gerald Beverly is a 21 year old 201cm forward from Rochester, New York that just finished his college career at Daemen(NCAA2) In his senior year he played 12 games averaging 20.7ppg, 12.1rpg, 3.5bpg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 75.8%. After a very strong junior season where he played 28 games averaging18.9ppg, 10.0rpg, 4.0bpg, FGP: 57.3%, FT: 64.6%, NBA teams started to notice his game. This past summer he has been on the radar of many NBA teams, but the American has decided to start his professional career in Germany. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Where are you at the moment Gerald and what was your best summer experience off the court?

I am currently in Buffalo working out with my coaches from school. As well has hanging out with friends.

The last few months you have been going from NBA workout to NBA workout. Do you still have to pinch yourself about having these kind of experiences?

Definitely, the workouts were a great experience and it gave me a chance to go up against other NBA prospects and gauge my level of skill. In which I thought I did pretty well

With all the attention that you have received as well as what you have seen from the NBA in the last weeks, could you give a better jaw breaking expression than Home Alone star Macaulay Culken? How would the Gerald Beverly jaw breaking expression look like after the last weeks?

I was definitely grinning from ear to ear the whole time through my NBA experiences

You met with teams like the Utah Jazz, Houston Rockets and Cleveland Cavaliers and was interest from the Golden State Warriors and massive interest from the Milwaukee Bucks. What experience was the best for you and what did you learn from the NBA moment the last few weeks?

I learned that it takes a lot of hard work to make it in the NBA and there are a lot of guys they look at and you have to do what you can to make yourself standout and make a name for yourself.

You have consistently improved your stats each season at division 2 school Daemen and didn´t get NBA interest until late in your college career. When did you know that you there might be a professional basketball career possible for you?

My coaches always felt that I had a strong chance for a professional career somewhere as long as I kept working hard, and that is what I did and a lot of it came to light this year.

You almost didn´t go to Daemen, but were going to play at division 3 school Hibbert. Do you think that your career wouldn´t have panned out the way it did now with Daemen?

I don’t think it would of if I had went to Hilbert. The guys and people I met at Daemen and the coaching along with the level of play I think really pushed me to better myself at the game, and that may not have happened for me at Hilbert.

Your senior season at Daemen NBA scouts started coming to watch you. After a while you told your head coach Mike Mcdonald not to mention that anymore. How difficult was it to focus on your game and improve when you knew that NBA scouts were always watching? Did you feel pressure?

Scouts started coming to our games my senior year. I did ask for my coach to not tell me when a team was coming because it would be a little nerve racking for me, because I would think about it too much in games.

NBA superstars like Scottie Pippen or Charles Oakley and Dennis Rodman all didn´t play at NCAA division one schools and all made it big time as professionals. Were these the guys that also might have had an indirect impact on you working even harder to be the best that you could on the court?

Definitely it just shows that it can be done like a guy like me coming from the school I’m coming from can still make it. It may be a longer path but there is still plenty of opportunity to get there.

You have a very versatile game, but your drive, work ethic and athleticism really stand out. However what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed on the court right away?

Well I think that I can shoot the ball a bit better than I am given credit for as well as I think I can pass decently well to.

Mike Mcdonald was your head coach at Daemen as a senior, but how did head coach Don Silveri help you develop in your first three years that helped you get into a position on the court for NBA teams to be interested in your game?

Well coach Silveri was the one who gave me the opportunity to come to Daemen and I am forever grateful. As my coach he pushed me to become better in more ways than one and I am glad I got to play for him.

What was your most memorable game as a senior your 27 point 21 rebound effort in the 89-88 win against Dowling or your 25 point 20 rebound game against Molloy in the 75-61 win?

My favorite experience was when we beat Canisus college and division 1 program in an exhibition game which was an amazing feeling.

What will you miss most from teammate Torrence Dyck on and off the court?

I will miss a lot from all my teammates it was unfortunate for Torrance because he had a season ending injury about halfway through our season. I will for sure miss his drive and work ethic and he was a great teammate.

You have signed to play for a Beko BBL team in Germany. Did security and money play a role for you signing early in Europe over not taking the NBA/D-League route as a rookie?

It was just a good situation and opportunity that I wanted to take advantage of and I think will work out well for me.

What do you know about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

I know Germany has produced great basketball players such as Dirk Nowitzki and that Germany is a great country with a lot of tourist attractions and history

In Europe the game is more structured then the more up and down pace in the States and the driven one on one game. On what things will you be working on the court in the next weeks before you head over for your rookie season in Germany?

I have been getting myself ready for the adjustment and understanding all new adjustments and tweaks I will have to make to my game.

Did you ever see Javon Mccrea play when he was balling at Buffalo(NCAA)? He was a rookie last season in Germany and had a great season. He is a 201cm forward like yourself.

I played pickup against him once but I never actually went to an official UB basketball game while he was there.

Tony Gaffney who played at UMass and has the distinction of being on the Celtics and Lakers roster, but never playing an NBA game played in Germany some years ago. If you could, what would you like to have from his game?

Tony Gaffney is a great player if I was to want something from his game it would probably be his ability to run the fast break and handle the ball in transition. But I feel with my work ethic I will be able to gain those aspects to my game.

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

It would consist of me going through a basketball workout and drills with my coaches and then go right into lifting weights after. On certain days I play pick up with my former teammates and basketball players in the area.

What do you see the New York Knicks accomplishing in the 2015-2016 NBA season. Can they be a playoff team?

It is definitely hard to say I think that they will for sure improve from last year and if they develop a good team chemistry I think they may be able to make some noise. I have faith in Phil and think he is doing the right things.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Jurassic World.

Thanks Gerald for the chat.

Alex Foster is a 23 year old 203cm forward that grew up in Portland, Oregon and also has the German citizenship will be starting his professional basketball career in Germany with the Rhein Stars Koeln (Germany-ProA). He played at Emory (NCAA3) from 2011-2015 playing a total of 108 NCAA3 games and as a senior averaged 20.1ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 39.9%, FT: 79.8%. He was able to improve his scoring and rebounding average each season at Emory. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

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

Right now, I’m sitting in my college locker at Emory University in Atlanta, GA. I’ve had a great summer. Basketball keeps me busy, but I’ve also taken some nice weekend trips with my girlfriend.

Congratulations on signing your first professional contract in Germany with the RheinStars in Cologne. How did this whole contact come about? Stephan Baeck must have had you on his radar?

I have to give the credit to my agent, Patrick King. He worked hard to find the right basketball situation for me. Once he told me about the Rhein Stars, I knew that’s where I wanted to go. I was impressed with what Stephan has done to reestablish basketball in Cologne. The organization is definitely headed in the right direction and I’m excited to be onboard.

Having lived in Portland and Atlanta, now you will move to Cologne. What are you most looking forward to in your new home in Germany?

I’m excited to immerse myself with German culture: the food, the people, the traditions, and everything else that is great about the country. I’ve already been reading up on the city and it sounds amazing. I already know what my first two meals will be: a “Flönz woosch” and a “Halve Hahn”.

Cologne has a lot of basketball tradition. How excited are you to be able to play for this club that has so many high goals and what is your primary goal?

I’ve always had high expectations for myself and my teammates and I hope that the city of Cologne will hold us to a high standard as well. I want to make the fans proud by playing my hardest every game. My goal is for my team to win a lot of games next year.

How blessed you do you feel in general coming from an NCAA3 school and being able to play in the second division in Germany? It isn´t often that a division 3 player makes it to this high level?

I feel very fortunate to be where I am and I’m grateful for all of the help I’ve received along the way. I’ve had tremendous support from my girlfriend, family, and friends. There are literally dozens of people that have helped me get here. They know who they are; I owe them all a big thank you.

You have German roots and was born here, but left with one and a half to live in the States. What do you know about the country Germany and its basketball?

I’ve spent a lot of time with my family in Schwaben so I know about that area. Cologne’s pretty close, but I’ve only visited once. I travelled through Munich, Dresden, and Berlin last summer. I speak German pretty well and I cheer for Germany during the World Cup, obviously. Dirk was my favorite player growing up and I actually wrote him a letter when I was in middle school. He was nice to sent me back an autographed picture; I still have it. I’ve also spoken to Detlef Schrempf a couple of times. Schröder plays in Atlanta and Kaman in Portland, so I’ve seen them play a lot. I followed the BBL and Pro A playoffs, so I know who’s good.

Your joining a very interesting team with two talented Americans Lakeem Jackson and David Downs, a legend in the making with Bernd Kruel who could be your dad and started his basketball career when you were one year old, many young talented German players and CEO Stephen Baeck who won the 1993 European championships. What do you believe is your biggest strength that you will be able to give this team as a rookie coming in?

I think my biggest strength is leadership. I work on my game every day and also try to make my teammates better. The game is much easier if you can mesh as a team. Its important to understand your teammates strengths and put them in situations where they can be successful. Our team has a lot of talent and its important that everybody contributes.

You are a very versatile forward, but scoring and rebounding stand out. However what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?

My physicality. I try to seek contact in the post and gain good position.

You played four years at Emory(NCAA3). When did you start about possibly trying for a professional basketball career?

I always dreamed about playing basketball professionally, but it didn’t become a reality until last summer. Our team travelled to Germany to play against teams in Pro B and we won all 4 games. After that, I turned down a job offer in San Francisco so that I could pursue a contract.

You improved your scoring and rebounding average each season while learning the basketball trade at Emory. On what aspects of your game do you want to make the next step in at the professional level?

My defense. I want to be able to play multiple positions if my coach needs me to and in order to do so, I’ll have to guard the perimeter better. I’m also working on putting the ball on the floor so that I can make defenders pay for crowding my jump shot.

You had a great career at Emory, but was being named First Team All-American as selected by the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC), the first Emory player to earn that distinction since 1990 (Tim Garrett) your biggest achievement?

Actually, my proudest accomplishment is never sitting out of practice and playing in every game during my four years at Emory.

Every game your senior year could have been made into a book as something special seemed to happen. For example two highlights were your 38 points against Oglethorpe or reaching the 1,000 career-point plateau where you nailed a big three pointer with 41 seconds on the clock that snapped a 62-62 deadlock, giving Emory the lead for good in an eventual 71-65 win at Case Western. Was one of these your biggest senior highlight or was it another one?

Those were both very memorable games, but the games that stick with me the most were our wins in the Division 3 NCAA tournament. This year we came back from behind from behind to beat Whitworth. We were down by 10 with 7 minutes left. We stuck with it and ended up winning by one. That was definitely the highlight of my senior year.

How did Emory head coach Jason Zimmermann prepare you best for a professional basketball career in your four years at Emory?

Coach Z never made it easy for me and made me a much better player. If I wasn’t playing well, he’d make sure to tell me. He wouldn’t let me get away with anything; I had to run a lot as a freshmen and sophomore. At first I thought he was picking on me, but now I know he just expected more out of me. I learned to embrace that. It was hard at times, but I think that it will help me as a professional.

He got a few inches on you, but who would win a one on one in practice you or Austin Dague?

Dague’s going to be a very good player. You might even be interviewing him in a couple of years. But right now it wouldn’t be very close if we played one-on-one. He’s still my baby brother.

How does a summer work out day look like for you on and off the court?

I wake up at 6:30, eat some eggs and fruit. Then I go to the gym to lift weights. Afterwards, I do some form shooting and stretching. Then I rest for a couple of hours, before going back to the gym to do a full on-court workout. I’m playing in multiple summer leagues, so I might have a game that day. I also do yoga a couple of times a week.

You grew up in Portland, but lived four years in Atlanta. Was it difficult growing up with the Portland Trailblazers and them not having success?

The Blazers have had it rough, but I’ve stuck with them. Next year is going to be interesting without Aldridge. I’ll definitely be following their season.

What do the Atlanta Hawks have to do this offseason to make the next step and reach that Eastern final?

They have a great coach so I think that they’ll be good again next year. I don’t know if they’ll be able to keep Lebron out of the Finals though.

What was the last movie that you saw?

How to Train Your Dragon. I like all kinds of movies, but my girlfriend and I have been watching a lot of Pixar movies this summer.

Thanks Alex for the chat.

Jordan Callahan is a 24 year old 184cm point guard born in Atlanta, Georgia and raised in Marietta will be playing his third professional season and first in Germany with the Crailsheim Merlins. Last season he played for Port of Antwerp Giants (Belgium-Scooore League) playing 8 games averaging 9.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 40.5%, 3PT: 26.9%, FT: 95.5%; EuroChallenge: 3 games: 10.7ppg, 2.0rpg, 4.3apg. He started his basketball career at Tulane (NCAA)in 2009 playing a total of 116 NCAA games. In his senior season he played 31 games averaging 10.6ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.8%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 71.7%. IN the 2013-2014 season as a rookie he played for Kotwica Kolobrzeg (Poland-TBL) playing 16 games: Score-4(15.8ppg), 3.3rpg, 3.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 82.0%, in Feb.’14 moved to Anwil Wloclawek (Poland-TBL) playing 19 games: 14.9ppg, 3.6rpg, Assists-5(4.2apg), Steals-5(1.7spg), FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 83.6%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Jordan thanks for talking to german hoops. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been going?

Thanks for having me. Currently I’m in New Orleans training at my former school Tulane University. Summer has been going great. Just working out and spending time with family/friends.

Your season ended last December as you departed from Port of Antwerp Giants (Belgium-Scooore League). How tough was the time after that for you? You actually were in Crailsheim for three days, but the club then decided to take Walter Lemon. Was this another set back for you?

I never really see anything as a set back. Just motivation to get better. Since I’ve been back most of my time has been spent in the gym working on my game to take it to the next level.

You had solid stats with Port of Antwerp Giants (Belgium-Scooore League), but did they not want to have the point guard duo of Fogg/Callahan?

I’m not sure what they wanted from me.

You had three very good scoring games where you combined for 59 points, but then five not so good scoring games where you combined for 17 points. Was inconsistency something that was an issue with management?

Let’s just say it wasn’t a great fit for me and my game. Nothing against Antwerp. They run a very professional organization and I appreciate the opportunity they gave me.

After a very strong rookie season in Poland where you changed teams, but still played well for both teams, you played only a few months in Belgium last season. With what kind of an approach are you going into your third professional season.

Hungry! A similar approach to how I came into my rookie season. I feel like I’ve been caged the past seven months. I can’t wait to get out on the court and show how hard I’ve been working.

Were you able to somehow gain some new confidence as you approach the new season?

I think confidence comes with the work ethic you put in the gym. When you’re in the gym constantly, day after day, and you can feel your game getting better, confidence comes naturally.

The German team Crailsheim Merlins recently were awarded to stay in the Beko BBL. How important was playing in the first division for you?

I think it’s great that they’re staying in BBL. I’m pretty sure the fans are happy as well. I look forward to playing in one of the better leagues in Europe.

What do you know about the country Germany and its basketball in general?

Unfortunately I don’t know much about the country of Germany, but believe me I can’t wait to learn! As far as basketball, I know that it’s one of the top leagues in Europe and the fans are very passionate.

The Crailsheim Merlins were last in the league and have a low budget. Are you welcoming the challenge of having to be an impact player this season?

Yes, definitely. I’m looking even more forward to help bring this team together and getting the best out of every player.

You are a point guard that can score, but also distribute the ball well, but what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

I would have to say my on-ball defense. I like to pick guys up 94ft and cause disruption in the other teams offense. I actually pride myself in doing so.

As a rookie you played in Poland. What was your wake up call to being a professional overseas where you knew that you were very far away from Tulane(NCAA)

Basketball is basketball no matter where you’re playing. My love for the game and passion for competition made it easy to adjust. Didn’t really matter where I was as long as I got to wake up everyday and hoop.

How much were you able to grow as a player in your rookie year in Poland? How important was it making time with two teams that season?

I think I grew a lot. Getting adjusted to the European style of play was big. My first game I think I got called for five traveling violations. Something I think every American can attest to in their first year overseas. With that being said I had two good coaches who really allowed me to work on my game. I actually would tell people back home that I got better after that year. Two practices a day. One being intense skill development and the other being team drills and scrimmaging. How could I not get better?

What memories do you have with Paul Graham who you played a few months with at Anwil in Poland?

Paul really took me under his wing when I moved to Anwil. Being that we were the only two Americans on the team we became good friends. As a matter of fact, we still talk to this day. That’s my guy (PGIII)

Your best season at Tulane was your second season where you played 30 games: 13.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 73.9%. Where do you rank your 21 point 12 assist game against Houston in your alltime best college games?

Statistically it probably was my best game at Tulane. I still remember that game to this day! Tulane’s single game assist record was 13 at the time. I had two opportunities to break the record but unfortunately the ball just didn’t bounce right way. I’ll always remember that haha. Personally I think my best game was my senior year when I broke the all time 3pt record. That’s just a moment I’ll never forget.

How did Tulane head coach Ed Conroy prepare you best for a professional basketball career in the three years that you played under him?

I would have to say he made me more of a defensive minded player. In order to play for him you had to play defense, that’s what he prides himself in. So naturally I adjusted because I wanted to play.

How disappointed were you that ex NBA player and ex North Carolina standout Shammond Williams joined Ed Conroy´s coaching staff the year that you graduated?

I wouldn’t say I’m disappointed because we had great coaches during my tenure at Tulane. But Shammond and I are close. I’ve actually been working out with him since I’ve been down here in New Orleans. He’s definitely given me tips that I can add to my arsenal. And anytime you workout with a great player like Shammond you can learn a lot just by watching.

What memories do you have of German Malte Ziegenhagen who played 19 games with you your junior year at Tulane. You will battle him this season in the BBL as he plays for Bayreuth.

Malte was great. He was always trying to learn something new to help out his game. That’s what I liked about him. It was also his first time in the states so we would teach him slang. Malte actually stayed at my house in Atlanta one time due to a flight delay. Can’t wait to play against him this year.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Ricky Tarrant?

Haha. We never played one on one surprisingly. Ricky is like my little brother so if we ever did play I’d have to bang him around a little bit.

Could German Dennis Schroeder challenge Jeff Teague for the starting point guard position this season?

I doubt it. Schroeder is a good talent but Jeff Teague was an all star last year. Going to be tough to take his spot

What was the last movie that you saw?

Paid in Full. It’s a classic and I watch it at least once a month.

Thanks Jordan for the chat.

Jordan Baker is a 23 year old 201 cm forward from Edmongton, Canada that recently completed his rookie season with Weissenhorn in the German Pro B and played 21 games averaging 15.3ppg, 8.3rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 59.5%. He played at the University of Alberta (CIS) from 2009-2014 and as a senior played 28 games averaging 17.1ppg, 8.3rpg, 3.2apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 66.0%.This summer he is a member of the Canadian national team that I splaying at the university games in South Korea. He spoke to German Hoops before the quarterfinal game against Germany at the university games in South Korea.

Jordan thanks for talking to German Hoops You recently completed your first professional season in Germany with Weissenhorn. You played 21 games averaging 15.3ppg, 8.3rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 59.5%. Those were very good Pro B stats and coming from the CIS league were you pleased the way that you played your rookie season?

I was somewhat pleased with the way my rookie season went. Obviously I could have shot the basketball a little bit better from 3 and from the FT line, but we had success as a team and I learned a lot about the European style of play.

Except for three games you scored in double figures in every other game. Consistency was still your middle name. Was this one of your biggest strength in your rookie season or do you feel there was something else that you brought to the table?

Consistency is always important and I made sure to show up for every game ready to compete. I made an effort to do whatever the team needed for us to secure a win.

I saw young Spaniard Carlos Cerdan play twice in the NBBL youth league and you had him in practice often and in games. How much potential does this guy have and what did you like about his game?

Carlos has a ton of potential. He can really pass the basketball but also loves to score and can hurt the defense in a lot of different ways.

What is the next step for Jordan Baker? Are the chances good that you will stay in Germany or could you see yourself landing in a new country to gain further basketball experience in your second season?

My plans for the upcoming season are currently unclear. I would love to stay in Germany and play at a Pro A or BBL level. If that does not work out, I am open to signing in a new country as well.

Currently you are at the university games with Canada in South Korea. In the past you have played national team in places like New Zealand, China or Mexico. What kind of experience has this been for you this summer? You are 23 now, but already played U-19 in 2009. Does one tend to appreciate these type of trips more as one gets older?

This summer has been a different type of national team experience. When I played last summer, I was one of the youngest players on the team and was doing my best to soak in as much information as I could. With this FISU team, I have taken on a leadership role and guys are looking to me to make key plays. I enjoy being a veteran and helping players along.

Canada lost the last game to Russia. What went wrong in that game?

We lost to Russia by 7 in our final game in pool play. We did not move the ball well enough which resulted in us taking too many contested shots. We need to be better moving forward.

Canada has many talented players and in the last years Germany has been a place where an influx of Canadians have come to play. What Canadian teammate do you see having the biggest potential of making it as a professional? Possibly Jarred Ogungbemi-Jackson?

It is hard to say which Canadian teammate of mine will have the biggest impact. Everyone brings something different to the table but all are hungry to get their professional careers started.

How excited are you for the Germany game? What kind of game can we await?This will be a great challenge for you as you will be playing against many talented BBL players. Could this be like a hidden try out for you for perspective German teams possibly signing you?

Our game against Germany is an important one. My only goal is to win the game. Whatever happens as a result of that is out of my control. Germany is going to be a tough opponent and it is an exciting challenge.

Have you found time to watch any of the other events? If so what has been your favorite?

We have been out as a team to support other Canadian teams including women’s basketball, volleyball and water polo. I always enjoy volleyball as I used to play it.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I saw was Kingman: The Secret Service.

Thanks Jordan for the chat.