I have covered 1000´s of players in my career and I pretty much will know if I interviewed a player or not. Every now and then, I come across a player where I´m not sure if I did or not, so I´ll check my online library, if I did or not. Recently I was preparing an interview for another American player like so many overseas that is still climbing the basketball ladder, grinding in the lab relentlessly and has a chip on his shoulder bigger than Fort Knox. His name is Diante Bah (204-C-1997, college: Rowan) who is living the basketball dream overseas and when I checked the school he played at named Rowan and saw who his coach had been, I though ah ha, that rings a bell. It was ex NBA Player Joe Crispin who had played briefly in the NBA with the Los Angeles Lakers, but had had an illustrious career overseas. I had interviewed him in pre season 2008 when he and his Turkish team had played an exhibition game in Frankfurt against the Skyliners. Back then Skyliner coach Murat Didin had been known for getting well known clubs for test games to Frankfurt. 10 years later, Joe Crispin would be the head coach of Diante Bah. I thought wow this is a small world. Crispin played a vital role in the then life of Bah and is the main reason why Bah was able to become a professional player and now be able to live the dream overseas “It really is a small world. Coach Crispin is awesome, great coach and even better person. He was patient, listened to my story and I made sure he believed in me through my work ethic. He can support this, when I made the Rowan team in college I was NOT GOOD. I knew almost nothing, I couldn’t dribble, didn’t understand plays, or read patterns but I knew how to learn. He saw my hunger, my listening skills, and my hustle which is what the team needed at the 5 position. He kept my role simple enough for me to play and help the team win the NJAC but complicated enough so that I could enjoy the game. We both love a challenge”, warned Diante Bah. It is quite evident that he takes absolutely nothing for granted. “I’m extremely blessed to be playing basketball around the world, to be healthy, and to still have opportunities to expand and keep growing. I’ve played in 5 different countries around the world, learned different languages and I have eaten food that looked so different I was scared to eat it but ended up loving it, it’s almost unreal. I cherish every season because nothing is guaranteed but what can be guaranteed is staying humble and not becoming greedy and selfish. My blessings belong to my family and the next generation just as much as they belong to me”, stressed Diante Bah

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber interviewing Joe Crispin in 2008 in Frankfurt when he was playing with Turkish team Banvit. Crispin played 6 NBA games in 2001 with the Lakers and was teammates with Kobe and Shaq

Diante Bah was born on January 2, 1997 in Mount Holly, New Jersey. He began his basketball career at Rancocas Valley High School. He played track and field in his first 2 years at Rowan and then surprisingly basketball came in the picture. “I’ve always liked basketball but I didn’t recognize my love for it until my senior year in college. I never watched actively as a kid, I was always a casual fan who played casually, had a few seasons in local rec leagues and my freshman year in high school where I didn’t play but was on the team”, said Diante Bah. In his junior year he averaged 4.7ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 64.5% and made a massive jump in his senior year averaging 8.6ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.9bpg, FGP: 67.7%. “The biggest reason for my stat jump was just the experience and I made the right mistakes and learned the right way after that first season. Experience and support are everything, I had both”, stated Diante Bah. His biggest moment was winning the NJAC title, but he also had another one. A highlight that had many screaming in the gym “The dunk in Franklin Marshall was the start of my basketball career through the worlds eyes as I like to say. That dunk will forever be worth more than 2 points for me, it was the final reason for Crispin to play me more and the first reason for everyone to finally believe what I had been saying the whole time. “I will be a professional basketball player”, warned Diante Bah. Not only was Joe Crispin huge in his development, but also teammates Teirique Robinson and Ramon Wright who pushed him everyday in practice. “Coach Crispin wasn’t really aware that I wanted to play at the next level but I’m sure he could tell it was on my mind. I didn’t really talk about it much with him until the end of my career. He would always tell me to relax and be free. I carry those words of wisdom with me to this day. Teirique and Ramon were early mentors for me in basketball because they were my position and when I made the team I learned most of what I needed from them. They both were experienced and were great players that knew what they were doing. They were open to my questions and they supported me, I appreciate them and always will”, commented Diante Bah.

The New Jersey native who lists Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Stephen Curry, Hakeem Olajuwon,and Kevin Durant on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore began his pro career overseas with ABC Santo Andre/Moveis Fernandes (Portugal-2.Divisao) and prompt won his first chip. But before that happened, he was a nervous wreck as he entered the country. “My rookie season wake up call was when I first stepped off the plane when I arrived. All that was repeating in my head was “I have no idea where I am going, what my teammates look like, will they like me, will I stay healthy”, all these questions pop up every season but they curled my stomach completely my rookie season”, remembered Diante Bah. He was also fortunate to have guys around him to make the adjustment period easier. One of those players was Ronnie Rousseau, a guy who like Bah had to pay his dues as well overseas. It is only obvious that Bah felt at home around him. “Ronnie Rousseau was one of the best players I have ever played with and seen play. He’s a monster on the court, a professional and great friend. I saw his tape in Pro B, he did his thing, I’m proud of him. I did feel at home with Ronnie and I think he can say the same about me, we were on a mission that season and it showed at the end”, said Diante Bah. In his second season he made his break through playing with with BC Apollo Amsterdam (Holland-BNXT league) averaging 9.9ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 22.9%, FT: 68.6%. “Going to Apollo Amsterdam was huge for me because I got to experience that next level. The next level of financial investment, pressure, stadiums, and just basketball. I always tell people, in Portugal I became a professional and in Amsterdam I became a professional basketball player. I learned so much about myself as a player and what I need to do and the skills I need to develop to keep moving up, for example, a consistent 3 point shot. All the bigs at the level had good 3 point percentages and I could see how much it was helping their teams win”, remembered Diante Bah. He scored in double figures 12 times and saved his best for last scoring 21 and 19 points in the playoff series against Aalst, but the only thing missing was winning the series.” Losing to Aalst was very tough because we felt that we could beat them. They had an experienced team and we had a new team without experience but we showed heart and showed up every play. I will always remember this game because all the kids I coached at camps that year came to see my last home game and we got a win”, remembered Diante Bah. Last season he played with with OKK Slavija 1996 Sarajevo (Bosnia-Division I) averaging 7.7ppg, 6.3rpg, FGP: 66.1%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 80.6%. One would think that he took a step back, but he felt he didn´t. “I always carry a chip on my shoulder but it comes from myself, not the outside. From the outside looking in going from the BNXT to a lower league in Bosnia was a bad move or a step back in my career but I see it different. My mindset is always give my best and keep growing no matter where I have to go to do it. I didn’t go to Bosnia thinking “I shouldn’t be here and I’m above this”, I went to Bosnia thinking “this is an opportunity to keep growing my game and keep showing why I belong on any court”. This mindset keeps things simple and it´s what keeps me in the gym no matter how tough the day is. I help teams win by being myself, there’s no pressure in that and I know if I stick to that, opportunities will manifest”, warned Diante Bah. He suffered many loses, but that’s part of the game. “My season is Bosnia was a learning experience, we had several different coaches in one season, a new team, and a lot of player rotations throughout the year but I still managed to stay solid and learn from it all. The highlights of the season for me were the lessons and I keep those with me”, expressed Diante Bah. He scored in double figures 6 times including 17 points against Mladost. His last pro station was in Mexico with Matamoros Piratas Bagdad (Mexico-CIBAPac) “Playing in Matamoros, Mexico was good for me because the playing style in that country is more isolation and fast basketball rather than the European balanced playstyle. My weeks in Mexico were a great experience for me to develop and show my offensive skillset and value. I was brought in as a top 2 offensive option which was new but I loved it and learned so much about what it takes to be depended on offensively and defensively”, added Diante Bah.

The big man who lists his father as his own GOAT is playing his fourth professional season in Germany with the Iserlohn Kangaroos. He is more than content about making the choice to come to Iserlohn. “Germany is an organized country with pride and great basketball. It’s evident more than ever now in the basketball with so many German players dominating in the NBA, World Cup, and Olympics. I’ve only been living in Iserlohn for a few weeks and I can feel the basketball culture. My friend Mike Cubbage played for Iserlohn in the past and was one of the key motives in my decision to sign here, he had great experiences with the city, fans, and organization”, stressed Diante Bah. Plus the focus on 2 things also weighed heavily on his decision to go there. “The main reason I joined Iserlohn was because all of the staff I spoke with kept saying two words. Character and family. When I ran track in High school and won a state title, it was because of those words. When I won championships in college and for BSA in Portugal, those two words. This team is built on character and family and it shows everyday and it’s going to show this season. There’s much more to a decision like this but those were the foundation for wiring my signature”, added Diante Bah. Even though he is a center and is playing for a former guard in Toni Prostran, the mutual connection is already there. “Playing for coach Toni is professional. He has high level experience and it shows. He doesn’t just talk the talk, he walks the walk. There are moments in practices where he’ll do defensive slides with the players to make us go faster and its funny but it’s awesome. His basketball philosophy involves many things but I like the part where “practice is everything”. The game is what matters for numbers but practice matters for character and it’s easy for us to see how much that matters to him and why he was such a successful player”, stressed Diante Bah.

So what kind of player will the German Pro B see this season? It didn´t take him long to find that NBA player that compares “best to his game. “I believe I compare to Pascal Siakam, he’s long, can shoot the midrange and plays defense. I’m a center or a Power Forward depending on the team and or situation. I love rebounding and going for blocks, it´s exciting and strong. I’m a high energy player who runs the floor nonstop, can shoot the midrange is can guard one through five. I love a challenge. My biggest strength is my energy, It’s everything”, explained Diante Bah. He has never averaged in double figures in scoring in his career, but could this season finally be the one. “This season my role is energy, defense, and putting myself in the right positions to score in transition, the pick and roll, and post ups. I can score the ball but offense has never been why I’m on the court. It’s always been rebounding, defense, and my hustle. It’s not that I can’t score double figures but it takes not just experience but the right opportunity to be a double figure scorer which I believe I have now and will keep working to show that this season”, said Diante Bah. He has never been a three point threat, but if he could ever take more three´s, he will be ready. “In college I wasn’t in positions to shoot 3’s but I’ve always worked on it because the game of basketball is changing, versatility is more important than ever now. My 3 point shot has developed so much, I’ve put in more hours than anyone would believe and it’s paying off, I can’t wait to show how much of a threat I am on the court when I’m knocking down the 3 ball”, warned Diante Bah. But he won´t only be an offensive threat, but also will give his all on the defensive end. “I’m just a pure defender. I play defense hard and I don’t care who I have to guard. Let´s do it. My chip on my shoulder shows the most on defense and I love it”, stressed Diante Bah. He never takes an off day as the lab is where he can show his dedication to get better ”At the moment, I’m working on my offensive and defensive reads. It takes time but being able to read the game before it happens on both sides of the floor is the difference between a solid player and a great player. I know what I can be”, stressed Diante Bah. The season hasn´t even officially started, but already he has a feeling that he hasn´t ever had before. “Basketball has always been good to me but this year feels different because I have a few years of professional experience with me now and my relationship with the game is closer than ever”, warned Diante Bah. Now that should be a good omen for all Kangaroos fans.

KeyShawn Feazell (206-F-1998, college: Creighton) is a 25 year old 206cm forward that was born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi that will play his third pro season and first in Germany for easyCredit BBl team Brose Bamberg. Last season he played for CSO Voluntari (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 11.1ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.0apg, Blocks-5 (1.0bpg), FGP: 67.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.2%. He played his rookie season with the Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 14.9ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.6apg, Blocks-5 (1.2bpg), FGP: 59.6%, 3PT: 24.0%, FT: 72.9%. He began his basketball career at Lawrence County high school and then enjoyed a 5 year NCAA career at 3 schools playing a total of 127 games. He played his first 3 NCAA seasons at Mississippi where he never averaged more than 1,5ppg. He then moved to McNeese State University (NCAA) averaging 13.1ppg, 9.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 76.4%. He played his last season at Creighton University (NCAA) averaging 3.1ppg, 2.3rpg. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Keyshawn for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

Hey, I’m currently in the States and it’s going well. I can’t complain.

How blessed do you feel being able to play in Germany in your third pro season in the top league easyCredit BBL after paying your dues in Finland and Romania?

I’m grateful to be in this position, I’ve worked hard to get here and I feel really blessed to be able to play in the BBL.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Have you had friends or ex teammates or opponents play there?

Well I’m a car guy and I know about the autobahn. I know that it’s a really competitive league and full of talent. Galin Smith and Prince Oduro are my guys, both former teammates!

Obviously moving to a league like the easyCredit BBL is a no brainer, but what made the organization Brose Bamberg so appealing to you?

The history behind the organization is really impressive! After speaking with coach and hearing what his views were as far as the future, it was almost a no brainer in itself.

How did the talks go with Anton Gavel? He is an up and coming coach who like you paid his dues as a coach and has moved his way up the ranks. What did you appreciate about his basketball philosophy and character the most?

I most definitely enjoyed our talks, he seems very knowledgeable and passionate about the future of the organization. I also like the style that of basketball that he introduced to me over our talks.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 206cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

If I had to compare myself to one particular NBA player, it would be like a John Collins or PJ Washington.

You’re a player that can score rebound and block shots. Would you call yourself a 2-way player?

I most definitely feel as if I’m a 2-way player. I really enjoy playing defense, especially the challenge of guarding smaller/quicker guards. Some of my favorite moments on the court.

What other strengths does your game incorporate on the offensive end? It seems like your also a big that can get others involved.

I feel as if I have an underrated IQ. I was able to display my passing abilities in Finland a bit but I definitely take pride in being able to show it when I can. I really enjoy making the right plays when having the ball.

You have proven that you’re a very good shot blocker. Would you call your shot blocking a mix out of skills and passion for making the big defensive play?

Yes for sure, like I mentioned earlier I really enjoy playing defense and making plays on that end of the floor.

On what areas of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to climb the basketball ladder?

As of now I’m improving my strength to help deal with bigger opponents. As far as skills, I’m working on continuing my shooting ability. I’ve grown every year and know there is still room for improvement. Also, ball handling and foot work. I like using my quickness against bigger opponents.

Last season you played with CSO Voluntari (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 11.1ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.0apg, Blocks-5 (1.0bpg), FGP: 67.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.2%. Would you agree this league was another step above the Korisliga? How did your game grow further?

Yes for sure, playing in Romania was definitely a step forward from Finland. It was challenging at first getting used to the different rules that they have but once I figured out my role on the team it helped me focus on that. It grew my game as far as knowing how to be productive without having the ball as much.

You played your rookie season with the Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 14.9ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.6apg, Blocks-5 (1.2bpg), FGP: 59.6%, 3PT: 24.0%, FT: 72.9%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I’ve always been away from my hometown and used to being on my own so being in a different country was kind of a breeze.

You were teammates with sniper Mikko Koivisto. What memories will you always have from him? Did you see him shoot out the lights in practice and games?

He’s definitely one of the best shooters I have ever seen in my life. At practice when we shot he was so consistent that I would watch and try studying him ha.

You had a real roller coaster ride in the NCAA playing for 3 schools. How important was this experience for you having played for 3 schools instead of 1? Would you have become the player you are today having only played at 1 school?

It was a journey for sure, I’m a true believer of every thing happens for a reason so it was just a part of my story. I 100% wouldn’t be who I am as a man and player without each experience.

You played 3 years at Mississippi State never averaging more than 10 minutes and 1,0ppg in a season. How tough was this time? What did you learn from the experience and what positives did you gain?

It was really tough, more than anyone can imagine. I got a lot out of it though, learned more about myself as a man at the end of my time there.

What memories do you have of Reggie Perry? As a freshman he averaged double double stats. What memories do you have from practices where you matched up against him?

Reggie was really talented, was good to go up against him on a daily basis. Some good battles there.

You reached the NIT Final 4 in 2018. What memories do you have of that run? You played 24 minutes in the 4 games.

I honestly don’t remember a ton, was a blur really. I do remember playing against Penn State and Tony Carr. They destroyed us.

You then transferred to McNeese State University (NCAA) averaging 13.1ppg, 9.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 76.4%. How vital was this season for your basketball growth? It seemed like Heath Schroyer hat total trust in you.

This season was really important for me more mentally than anything else. Basketball followed but behind the guidance of assistant coach Jalen Courtney Williams and him helping me get back to the point of believing in myself. Coach Schroyer is my guy and I really appreciate him for allowing me to play what felt like my first real season since high school.

After a big season at McNeese, you left one more time for Creighton University (NCAA) avergaing 3.1ppg, 2.3rpg. Why did you do this?

I did this because I wanted to challenge myself again against better competition and play for a coach who was really experienced/proven to be a great coach.

What positives could you get from this experience where your minutes were shaved down from 29 to 9?

I learned that it was important to try to maximize every opportunity I got. This helped me going forward with applying that philosophy to life itself. You never know when it will be your moment so you have to treat every situation as if it is your last.

How did head coach Greg McDermott groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He helped me understand so much, he’s one of the best offensive minded coaches there is. I learned a lot about pace, reads, shot selection and a term that was used there called (unlocking the floor). Which is essentially just spacing the floor in really efficient ways.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Carlos Rosario?

Carlos is a competitor but I used to win a lot of those battles.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Probably SGA or Herb Jones

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I didn’t really dislike any teammates really, so it’s hard to just name 5 without leaving off others who were also great.

What is your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kobe, Shaq, KD, LeBron, and MJ

Who is your Goat?

MJ

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America movie? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

I haven’t seen that but they most definitely should leave a classic like that alone.

Thanks Keyshawn for the chat.

How often have you heard the statement, “he is a player that you would love to be teammates with, but hate to play against. There are countless guys in NBA history that would fit that description. Without thinking for a second, you could come up with names like Larry Bird, Magic Johnson or a Lebron James. These are great players that are NBA legends that teammates just loved to play with. But it isn´t always like that. I remember asking an American Pro A player at the end of last season, what his memories was of his other American teammate was. All I got was a no comment. Times aren´t always rosy with guys especially if a player is selfish and playing only for their stats and that next fat contract. These guys are always around overseas. But there are also those players that teammates love. One of those players is second year man Ed Croswell (203-F-1999, college: Providence) who is playing his first season in the easyCredit BBL for the Frankfurt Skyliners. He had a potent rookie season in the second division in Turkey last season. In the NCAA, he had a stellar career with Providence under head coach Ed Cooley who now is an assistant coach with the Georgetown Hoyas. It is always interesting to hear how ex coaches describe a former player. “My fondest moment with Ed was just seeing how much his teammates loved him and celebrated his success”, remembered ed Cooley. Hearing something like that says a lot about a player´s character. Will that kind of love be the same in Frankfurt from his teammates this season?

Ed Croswell who lists the Superbowl win of the Philadelphia Eagles as his biggest thrill was born on September 6th, 1999 in Philadelphia. He began his basketball career at St Joseph Prep where he once recorded a triple double against west Catholic with 17 points, 10 boards and 10 blocks helping his school to the semifinals of the PIAA Class 6A Tournament. He then played 2 seasons at La Salle University (NCAA) where ex Skyliner Ramon Galloway played. In his 2 years there, he played 58 NCAA games and despite only raising his minutes from 19 to 21 in his second season, he made a big jump in his scoring averaging 4.6ppg, 7.0rpg in his freshman season to 10.0ppg, 7.3rpg, FGP: 60.2%, FT: 55.2% in his sophomore season. He scored in double figures in 18 games and registered 7 double doubles including a 24/18 explosion against St Louis and 18/15 games against Fair Dickinson. He demonstrated in his first 2 seasons his brilliant knack for scooping down offensive rebounds as he was first and third in the nation in offensive rebound rating. Despite having a solid second season, he decided to seek a new challenge in Rhode Island with the Providence Friars and played for head coach Ed Cooley. His first 2 seasons with the Friars was tough as he averaged only 6 minutes in his first season averaging 2,3ppg and 1,9rpg while in his second season his minutes rose to 14 as did his points and rebounds to 5,3ppg and 4,7rpg. He just couldn´t get past upperclassmen Noah Watson and Noah Horchler. “He was adapting to a new environment while also learning from 2 experienced post players”, said Ed Cooley. He helped the Friars reach the 2022 NCAA Sweet 16 and scored in double figures in 7 games and scorched the University of Rhode Island with 13 points and 15 rebounds. But in his last season his time finally came as his minutes rose to 28 and he broke out averaging 13.3ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 61.3%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 66.0%. “He worked harder on his game in his senior year and worked countless hours with coach Battle”, remembered Ed Cooley. He scored in double figures in 24 games and had 8 double doubles. He had some incredible games including against Georgetown with 25 points, 13 boards, 6 assists and 3 blocks. There wasn´t one game that Ed Colley remembered most as his favorite moment with him, but the entire 3 years. “I was just so proud of him and how he trusted the coaches. I was proud of his development as a player and person”, stated Ed Cooley. He saved his best for last as in his last NCAA game scored 16 points against powerhouse Kentucky. “That game gave him added self-confidence going into the pro ranks. It showed he could score against legit size”, said Ed Cooley.

The Philadelphia native who lists Paul George as his favorite athlete got a first taste of how the NBA works playing NBA Summer League with the Utah Jazz in 2023 averaging 4,3ppg and 1,7rpg. He scored 9 points in a 97-93 win over the Phoenix Suns. He then came overseas and played his rookie season with the Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul 2nd team (Turkey-TBL) averaging 19.1ppg, 9.3rpg, 2.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 59.7%, FT: 60.9%: He scored in double figures in 30 games and had 18 double doubles. He scored 20 points or more 17 times. He showed in Turkey that he can be that versatile offensive player averaging more than 2,0apg. “Towards the end of his NCAA career, his offensive versatility was starting to show”, expressed Ed Cooley. Now he will play his second pro season in Germany with the Frankfurt Skyliners. So what kind of player will folks in Germany witness with Ed Croswell? Ed Cooley will never forget the first time he saw him play. “He was very physical and competitive with an overall very good feel for the game”, warned Ed Cooley. Hearing those NBA comparisons are always interesting and the one that Cooley offered is a player that I haven´t heard so often to guys balling overseas. “Ed is a throwback player that is very physical. I would say a smaller version of an Andre Drummond”, stated Ed Cooley. The big brings so many vital attributes to the table that will enrich the Skyliners at both ends of the court. “He is a very good defender in the post and being able to move his feet on the perimeter. He has a tremendous knack for offensive rebounding one of the best that I have ever coached in that area”, warned Ed Cooley. But it is his defensive game that could really bolster the Skyliners in the easyCredit BBL something they will need badly in their quest to remain in the first division. “He is a very good post defender because of his physicality and will. His ability to defend in the post while also being nimble enough to move his feet on the perimeter is great”, stressed ed Cooley. In the Skyliners press release, Denis Wucherer stated that he got to know a very friendly and motivated young man in Ed Croswell. It will be interesting to see how quickly Croswell´s character infects everyone else on his team.

Joe Asberry (196-F-1965, college: SF State) is an American ex professional basketball player that really has seen it all from crime to drugs, but also played against legends like David Robinson (215-C-65, college: Navy), Gary Payton, Jason Kidd and Brian Shaw and was teammates with German legendary player Christian Welp. He had a 11 year professional career that saw him toil around in the minor leagues of Germany, but he belonged to the best in his day at that level. Since retiring from the game, he has been a spokesperson for young kids and drug prevention, guest speaker, worked in the Alba Berlin organization, been a master of ceremonies for UBC Hannover and been a mentor for young Americans coming overseas trying to live the dream of being a professional basketball player. He works with an agent and with young inspiring basketball kids and has his own podcast. He also has a new job with the Artland Dragons and spoke to germanhoops.com about his new challenge.

Thanks Joe for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?

What´s up Miles? Always good to tap in with you my guy. I´m in Hamburg at the moment chilling in my favorite hotel and watching Gerald Green Dunk on people on youtube Basketball life for me is Magnificent. It helps me keep my Sanity.

Before we talk about your new great job with the Artland Dragons, we have to talk Team USA. Did you watch the final and were you sweating in crunch-time?

I watched the Final for sure. I never doubted Team USA! I called it in our last interview that USA had too many weapons. King James is unreal. Durant is unguardable and since I´m a lifelong Golden State Warrior Fan respectfully, I pray to Curry before I play horse with Kids, He´s a Basketball GOD! LOL!

The world keeps getting closer to Team USA in basketball. In 4 years there will be no Lebron´s, Curry´s or Durant´s. Was that the last medal for Team USA?

There is no doubt that the World has caught up. Team USA will reload, and they will continue to win. I´m upset with Kerr as Coach though, I love what he does with the Warriors, but to not play Jason Tatum, is disrespectful quote me on this 1,he will give the Warriors a 50 Ball soon

Who do you see being the future of USA basketball at the next Olympics. Please mention some names who will be the next big names? Will a guy like Ja Morant be there?

Ja Morant is a great player. He should be there for sure. Tyrese Maxey, Donovan Mitchell,, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Suggs, Cooper Flagg so Team USA will be ok. It´s a team game, but when these dudes start to cook, nobody in the WORLD can stop them.

How disappointing was Germany not winning a medal? How did you observe the run of Team Germany?

I don´t think it was a disappointment that Germany didn´t win a medal. I think they put too much pressure on themselves and didn´t just relax and Hoop, That´s what I HATE about basketball in Europe sometimes. They pretend like you need 500 plays. My Basketball IQ is Low, so let´s run “Coach Joe´s play, get the ball to Franz Wagner and everyone else, GET OUT OF THE WAY” LOL

Congrats on getting a job with the Artland Dragons. It wasn´t always easy for you in Germany to be able to display your incredible basketball expertise. How blessed do you feel to get this incredible opportunity?

Thanks buddy. Nothing has ever been easy for me in Germany,I TOOK SUCCESS! I´m just a basketball entertainer and a hype man. So I appreciate the opportunity that my Dude Pat Elzie,and also Marius Kroeger gave me.

How exciting is it in general working in the Artland Dragons organization. How did you observe this club in the last 20 years? It began with Michael Hakim Jordan bringing the club to the easyCredit BBL in 2003, Chris Fleming winning the cup in 2008 and then the club moving to the Pro B in 2015.

My guys,Pierre Bland,Matt Reid,and Dimi Ward played here. They all told me they were treated well as Pro´s, so I knew it was a good club. I balled vs Chris Fleming back in the days in a tournament here in the North, he was a walking bucket, so the history here is Real. We know that the Flo Hartenstein´s put this place on the map for sure. I watch his son Isaiah Hartenstein play good in the G- League on youtube all the time. He´s living proof if you work, and have GAME, you´re going to shine

How big is this job for your career? Don´t get me wrong, you have done great things for German basketball in many capacities, but in my eyes not gotten the deserved credit that you should get. You have experienced so much crap in Germany and now get rewarded. I guess the saying better late than never holds true in your case.

Thanks for the compliment, but I don`t view it like that at all. It´s the same situation you´re in. EVERYONE knows you and should be calling BBL Games. But sometimes WEIRD People in position play WEIRDO GAMES! LOL! Germany gave me a chance to get paid to hoop and entertain with my Dunks. Now I get paid to talk crazy at streetball tournaments. I´m the same dude that was planning Armed Robberies with my brother Rikki back in those evil California streets; on my way to Prison, or a Graveyard, so I´m winning,all day,everyday. I tell guys just because you´re IGNORANT today, it doesn´t mean you have to be ignorant tomorrow,pick up a SPALDING! LOL!

Was it tough leaving your home base of Berlin for the small village Quackenbruck? Was it a tough adjustment at first?

Yes it was a very tough adjustment and it still is. but Berlin is my headquarters with my Gal, so I´ll go there often. I don´t miss the traffic at all. This little quiet town is cool

You have been a good friend of Pat Elzie for years. Now your working for him and with him. What have you learned to appreciate most about him as a man and basketball instructor?

Pat Elzie really cares about his players. That is RARE in this Pro Basketball Business. Guys get hurt, and they´re GONE! Pat is a all around good dude, I could never repay him for what he has done for me. He got me a Pro Basketball job when nobody else would touch me. And now I´m in a tiny village, repaying my debt. LOL!

In the press release, it states that you will be responsible for going to schools and recruiting kids for the game. You are a great motivator. How exciting is this new responsibility for you?

I love basketball so this is the easy part. I´ll be chunking up buzzer beaters, I´ll brick a few because of the weightroom, but hey,NO EXCUSES!

You love to motivate and just love basketball and have that special love that not many have. What do you believe is the biggest strength in how you can motivate young kids for basketball?

I think my biggest strength to motivate kids with basketball is to help them dream. So I tell them hey, if a dude like me from the Hood can do something with his life, you can too. I tell them NEVER LET Go of your dreams, when my Dawg Kevin Yebo signed in Munich. I literally cried like a baby! He got Pro Basketball out of the MUD for real. Tannenbusch is a Legit Hood in Germany, and they LOVE HIM! He never got too BIG for his hood. Now the young guys that play basketball there are dreaming too I´m going to ride off into the sunset, like a good cowboy, but 1st,I got to beat up on some kids in Horse in Quackenbruck! LOL

What other duties will you have? Will you also be coaching young kids?

I´ll Coach a u18/Men mix, a basketball after school program, and my main duty will be to try and keep the Pro´s from going insane. Pro Basketball is a pressure performance based business. A guy like me is always in good spirits carries much more weight than people think. Most people talk behind pro´s backs when they don´t play well! I say positive things to their face to help them forget about a bad game and move forward.

We both have seen Brandon Thomas play for more than 15 years in Germany. This guy has the perfect body and plays like 30 at age 40. For me he is like an identity figure for German basketball. What is it like working with him?

BT is that Dude. He is the definition of a Pro Hooper on and off the court. I love working with him. As soon as I see him I tell him how much I love his shooting DAILY!,That man has a Pistol hidden in a backpack! LOL!

How exciting is this years Pro A club with new coach Vincent Mcaulay and Pat Elzie. What is your feeling how well this team will do?

I enjoy working with Coach Vince! Everything is new here for him so I just add my two cents on the off the court dangers especially for the young American players! It´s crazy to be working with Big Pat again. The last time we worked together he moved a team up to the BBL! So I´m praying that history repeats itself. There isn´t any pressure.My motto is just stay in the League and push towards the playoffs.

Who wins a 1-1 now in 2024? You or Brandon Thomas?

I don´t want any parts of Brandon Thomas in 1´s. He will shoot my face off. All I would do is hold, foul, talk and l Lose. There are a few other people running around with big mouths though and I live in a weightroom so I like my chances vs ANY amatuer. I´ll bully them; get to my middy jumper and floater, all day,everyday! I already cooked 1 of my u18 dudes to close his big mouth so I got my 1st Dub.LOL!

Thanks Joe for the chat.

Ok so if your from Boston, it doesn’t mean that every person will have Larry Bird as their GOAT. Many of the older fans probably will have Bird as their GOAT and others very appropriately will have a Bill Russell who won 8 NBA titles as a player and is unfortunately too often forgotten in the GOAT conversation. It’s no surprise that a Kellan Grady (196-G-1997, college: Kentucky) who hails from Boston and is 26 years old sees more eye to eye with the incredible Michael Jordan as most do or a Lebron James as these 2 dominate the GOAT talk. But these days there is even a third amazing player that is appearing a lot more in player’s NBA Mount Rushmore’s and could easily be the GOAT for those fellow snipers out there with Steph Curry. Grady had the special privilege of playing at Davidson for 3 seasons the school that Steph Curry attended before becoming a NBA superstar. Grady had the great opportunity to have met Curry on many occasions and also has the utmost respect for Larry Legend. ‘I’ve been around Steph a lot of times. We met when I was 14 years old at a Davidson Duke game during the NBA lockout when his brother was playing for Duke but he also came to Davidson once a year when I was playing for Davidson. I was also fortunate enough to be able to work out with him a few times in the summer at his SC30 camps. He is an exemplary figure for Davidson and had a tremendous career there. He helped set a standard of excellence at Davidson and it meant a lot to my teammates and I to try to maintain that standard and be the best versions of ourselves. I’m very familiar with Larry Bird and the 80’s Celtics from tons of testimony from my father (who is a big Celtics fan) watching NBA Hardwood classics as a kid and from documentaries. With that said though, I do not consider him the GOAT albeit still a fantastic player and a true legend who I consider top 10 of all time. His legacy will live forever not only in Boston but in the NBA conversation’, stressed Kellan Grady. At least for now, Kellan Grady will always keep the memories of Bird and Curry in his mind, but his biggest concern at the moment is his new job with German easyCredit BBL team MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. There the 3 level scorer will show his pride in in team defense that will translate very well with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg.

Kellan Grady who lists Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as his toughest player that he faced in the NCAA was born on September 11, 1997 in Boston Massachusetts. He played 3 seasons at Catholic Memorial and was named to the Boston Herald Dream Team. He then played a season at prep school Northfield Mount Herman. He made a name for himself in this time picking up numerous awards like HS Catholic Conference All-Star Team -2014, 15, 16, HS first-team All-State -2016, HS ESPN Boston first-team All-State -2016, HS Boston Globe All-Scholastic Team -2016, HS NEPSAC Class AAA Honorable Mention -2016, HS National Prep Championship Finalist -2017, HS NEPSAC first-team all-Conference -2017, and McDonald’s All-Americans Games Nominee -2017. He then played at Davidson College (NCAA) from 2017-2021 playing a total of 114 NCAA games. He had incredible scoring consistency averaging 18,0ppg as a freshman and 17,0ppg in his last 3 years. His consistency was incredible as he scored in double figures in 97 of 114 games. He scored 20 points or more 46 times. In his first game he scored 23 points against Charleston Southern hitting 7 three’s. Other great scoring games occurred against St Bonaventure where he drilled home 39 points or 32 points against GMU and 31 points against Lipscomb. He won the Atlantic 10 title in 2018 against Rhode Island and reached March Madness as a Freshman losing 78-73 against his future school Kentucky and poured home 16 points and future NBA superstar Shai Gilgeous Alexander added 19 points. ‘I remember it being a challenge guarding Shai, but I thought I held my own. He has blossomed into one of the best players in the NBA and it’s been a joy to see his development. I expect him to continue playing at an ALL NBA level for the foreseeable future’, warned Kellan Grady. At Davidson he was teammates with ex easyCredit BBL player Jon Axel Gudmundsson another fellow sniper and it is no secret that they had many shooting contests. ‘Jonnny and I are good friends and still stay in touch. We had a lot of great moments together and loved playing together. I won shooting contests. Of course I’m going say that. If you ask him, he’ll say he won. We were very competitive and it brought the best out of us’, remembered Kellan Grady. His development would never have run as smoothly without the incredible guidance by legendary coach Bob Mckillop. ‘He not only had a huge impact on me as a player but also in life. I learned so much under his tutelage and I’m grateful to have been able to play for him. TCC: Trust Commitment & Care was the honor of our program, it’s what guided us & those are three words that have had a huge impact on my life. He instilled tremendous values in us as young men and held us accountable. He really helped me as a player’, stated Kellan Grady. He then added a fifth season at the famous NCAA powerhouse Kentucky where he was coached by another legendary coach with John Calipari. ‘It was a joy. It’s crazy to think that a global pandemic, despite how tragic and devastating it was for so many, could bring opportunities at the same time. Kentucky was that opportunity for me. Playing for Coach Cal was an awesome experience. He always would say he wanted guys who would fight and work hard. I always took that to heart and have taken it with me’, stressed Kellan Grady. At Kentucky he averaged 11.4ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 74.4%. He scored in double figures 17 times including 25 points against Alabama and 23 points against WKU. He also picked up many awards in the NCAA like All-Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year -2018, All-Atlantic 10 Second Team -2018, 20, Atlantic 10 All-Tournament Team -2018, 21, Atlantic 10 All-Rookie Team -2018, All-Atlantic 10 First Team -2019, 21, NABC Division I All-District 4 First Team -2019, and NABC Division I All-District 4 Second Team -2021

The sniper who lists Rusty Reigel, Kishawn Pritchett , Carter Collins , Ty Ty Washington , and Ian Sistare as his 5 best teammates of all-time played NBA Summer League in Las Vegas with Denver averaging 5,5ppg, 1,3rpg and 1,3apg. He then played his rookie season with the Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League) averaging 12.2ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.5%, 3PT: 34.3%. He remembered it not always being easy playing against pro’s every day opposed to college guys, but he still had a very solid rookie season. He scored in double figures 27 times while averaging 31 minutes. Unfortunately for him, it still wasn’t enough for NBA call up and he wasn’t sure if he was on the NBA’s radar either. ‘I can’t answer that faithfully because I simply do not know. I am not an NBA executive. I do know that I gave it my best shot and worked to be the best player I could be. My goal is to be the best pro I can be & that requires a high level of play and consistency’, commented Kellan Grady. He also had the great opportunity to be teammates with NBA champion and Lebron Teammate Norris Cole. He couldn’t have asked for a better teammate than him. ‘ Norris Cole took me and others under his wing. .He was an awesome influence on all of us and is a great guy’, expressed Kellan Grady. He played his second professional season overseas with Chorale de Roanne Basket (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 8.4ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 62.8%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 69.2%. It isn’t always easy coming to terms with a new culture, but he managed. ‘In Roanne, english proficiency was mediocre at best, so I quickly had to adapt to the culture and try to immerse myself in that space and do my best with the language’, said Kellan Grady. On the court, he also had ups and downs, but the whole experience was positive. ‘It was a great experience & I learned a lot. We had a very up and down year and faced a lot of adversity and roster changes. It was hard for us to really develop a culture given all that we faced throughout the year but despite that I learned a lot and played with some high character people’, added Kellan Grady. He scored in double figures 17 times and will never forget the crazy 83-81 win over Blois where teammate Jordan Tucker shot the buzzer beater. ‘That was the most incredible game winning shot I have ever seen. It looked good the whole way from my vantage point. Jordan and I are very close friends so I was happy and excited for him’, stated Kellan Grady.

The Boston native who lists Michael Jordan, Stephen Curry and Larry Bird on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore has started a new challenge in the easyCredit BBL with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. He definitely did his home work before coming to Germany. ‘I know Germany is considered one of the strongest and most prominent countries in Europe with a rich cultural tradition. I know that Germans are fond of their sports, basketball included. The German league is a very impressive league and one of the most competitive in Europe. I’m very excited to be a part of it’, expressed Kellan Grady. One could say that head coach John Patrick was a very big reason for him choosing Ludwigsburg as his new home. ‘When my agent, John Noonan presented Ludwigsburg to me as a potential landing spot I was very excited. I have tremendous respect for John Patrick and his success in the past. He has developed and maintained a winning tradition in his career and his teams are always in the playoffs and very competitive. He is a highly respected coach and his teams play the right way and share the ball- something that is very important to me. And with regards to playing international club ball, that was an important aspect of my decision to play for Ludwigsburg. It provides for a more demanding and competitive environment wherein you are playing against of plethora of different teams and play styles as we compete against countries outside of Germany. It is a very exciting opportunity. Coach and I had a great conversation, one of the best I’ve ever had with a coach. We talked the importance of strong team culture, playing hard and competing for one another while also talking basketball philosophy and purpose. I really appreciated his approach to the game which seems very centered around defending, sharing the ball and being aggressive in a collective attempt to get good shots’, stressed Kellan Grady. The first thing that stands out with his game is his prolific scoring and three points shooting. But is he already a 3 level scorer? ‘I like to think so. I didn’t shoot the ball as well last year in Roanne, but I think my body of work as a player speaks for itself and I am a capable scorer at all three levels’, warned Kellan Grady. He eclipsed the 40% mark from outside at Kentucky, but knows to do it in consistently overseas at a high level won’t be a cake walk. ‘The game is different and the defense is better. For me, it’s about maximizing my opportunities in games & that comes from preparation and repetition in practice’, stressed Kellan Grady. But he won’t only shine on the offensive end, but also want to make an impact on the defensive end, a place where the MHP Riesen always want to sparkle at. ‘I’ve always taken a lot of pride in my individual defense but to me, what is more rewarding is team defense. I have been on teams where all 5 guys really prided themselves on being the best, cohesive defense unit we could be. When you can achieve that as a group, the sky is the limit’, warned Kellan Grady. At the moment he also continues to improve in all areas of his game so he will be 100% prepared for the start of the season. John Patrick lauded 3 parts of his game as being his strongest with being a go to guy, strong defensive player and leader. Is one stronger than the others? ‘I like to think all 3 of them. I try not to pigeon hole myself into a singular role or quality. My goal is to be the best player & teammate I can be’, stressed Kellan Grady. At the end of the day, it’s all about effort for Kellan Grady, and that will be more than appreciated in Ludwigsburg.

pic credit NBBL

Bruce (207-SF-2002) is a 21 year old 207cm forward from Weinheim, Germany that played withGartenzaun24 Baskets Paderborn (ProA) last season playing 27 games averaging 3.4ppg, 2.9rpg. In the 2022-2023 season he played with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (ProB) playing 24 games averaging 10.6ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 72.2%. He began his basketball career in Weinheim and then played in the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg system playing NBBL (U-19). He also played a season with CB Fuenlabrada Second Team (Spain-EBA) playing 14 games averaging 6.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 2FGP: 55.2%, 3FGP: 29.5%, FT: 59.3%, in Feb.’22 moved to BSG Basket Ludwigsburg (Regionalliga) playing 12 games averaging 9.3ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 55.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his memories of teammate and friend Ariel Hukporti who was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks and then traded to the New York Knicks.

You were teammates with Ariel Hukporti in Ludwigsburg. If you could say one word describing him what would it be?

Cheerful. When you see his face, you automatically get happy. He has the ability to get you to laugh.

How proud were you that he was the last player picked in the 2024 draft by the Dallas mavericks and then traded to the New York Knicks? It wasn´t self-evident that he would get picked as he was seen as a possible late second round pick.

I can´t describe it in words. I had one or two tears on my cheek. He went through so much. It was his plan to get to the NBA and he deserved it.

Describe the feeling when you heard the news?

At first I thought he wasn´t going to get drafted as somewhere around the middle of the second round, I got the call that it wouldn´t happen. But then came the call again that he was the last pick. I was overjoyed.

There is a big whats ap chat with David Mccray and players. Did everyone follow the NBA Draft?

I don´t know if everyone followed the draft that night, but every guy supported him.

How important were his 3 years away from Germany for his development in Lithuania and Australia?

He understood the definition of what it meant to be a pro in those 3 years. He learned what to do and what not to do on the court. He grew up quickly.

Everyone talks about his incredible defense and rebounding. What is off the radar with his game?

I think that many don´t realize that he will help his team anyway he can on and off the court.

Do you feel like he can crack the Knicks rotation right away?

I believe he will if he gets a chance. He will then show what he can do.

What would you like to see Ariel Hukporti achieve in his first season in the NBA?

I want him to have fun and play with a smile and just live the dream and bring out his best

What is your fondest moment with him on the court?

I think playing ANGT and when we beat Alba Berlin.

He seems to have a massive heart for the people in his inner circle. What is your fondest moment with him?

There are way too many to name. But I would follow David Mccray as well and say the way he takes time and plays with his kids. He is a family guy and just likes kids in general.

How big is still that bond from the Ludwigsburg days? Hukporti and Tyreese Blunt are like brothers to you. How strong is this bond today?

We try to write each other or talk to each other each day. Our bond is unbreakable.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or him?

Unfortunately Ariel.

Thanks Dejan for the chat.

Pic credit Bradley Athlectics

Malevy Leons (208-F-1999, college: Bradley, agency: One Motive Sports) is a 24 year old 206 cm forward from the Netherlands that completed his college career and is now looking to turn professional. In the last months he had NBA workouts with the Boston Celtics, Charlotte Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies, New York Knicks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Orlando Magic, and Utah Jazz. He played NBA summer League with the Oklahoma Thunder averaging 4.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2spg. He began his basketball career at BC Apollo Amsterdam. He then went stateside and played 2 years with Mineral Area College (JUCO) averaging 13.1ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.9apg, 1.7spg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 61.3%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 87.7% and in his second season averaged 18.7ppg, 9.5rpg, 3.1apg, 1.1spg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 72.3%. He then made the jump to Bradley (NCAA) playing 3 seasons and 80 games averaging 9.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 84.0% and then in his second season averaged 11.0ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.4spg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 78.3% and in his final season averaged 13.8ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.3apg, 1.5spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 78.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball in late spring about basketball.

Thanks Malevy for talking to germanhoops.com. You already had pro experience in Holland and now will continue the pro route. Do you feel like you have an edge over American guys simply because they are now preparing for the first time?

Yes I definitely have an advantage by already having experience at the pro level and how it is different from college but at the end it is still basketball so it shouldn’t have that huge of an impact

You played at BC Apollo Amsterdam and Patrick Faijdherbe. What memories do you have of that time? What kind of a player were you then and what kind of a player are you now?

It was a great time. I learned a lot from coach Patrick and the veterans on the team. I remember not knowing a lot and learning something new every practice. I still play the same way as I played back then I just got way better at everything

You are finished with school and now are preparing to become a professional. There is a lot of work. What are you looking forward to most?

Looking forward to just worry about basketball and not worry about school as much anymore

You signed with One Motive Sports and with founder Drew Kelso. Could one almost say like the name family could be his middle name?

Yes One Motive Sports has a family feeling and feels like you working towards a common goal together

Drew Kelso has a great track record of placing players around the world and the NBA. What grabbed your attention most about how he handles young men coming from school?

The way his players talk with much love about him in interviews shows that he really cares about them and they appreciate what he has done and is doing for them. Also when speaking to him you can hear his passion for what he does.

Do you see yourself also preparing for the NBA Summer League and NBA workouts or do you see yourself already now going the European route?

Yes my goal is to play in the summer league and do NBA workouts this upcoming summer

You had a great JUCO and NCAA career. Not all Europeans go this route. How beneficial was it coming to American and getting an education and play basketball? I´m sure you have no regrets?

Yes no regrets at all I think it was a great experience and it has always been important to my parents that I would get my degree and this was the best way to do it.

You had a stellar JUCO career and had to pay your dues and then had a solid NCAA career. How big is your chip on your shoulder? Do you feel you may be a little off the radar?

I feel like I’m starting from scratch again. Everyone who is going pro right now did the same things I did in college. Now I get the chance again to compete and rise to the top of the cream.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 206cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I try to model my game after Keegan Murray or Trey Murphy.

Is it fair to say that your a modern day forward? What is your biggest strength on the court?

I think my biggest strength is my motor I’m able to give high effort at all times and impact the game in many different ways

You have had an up and down three pointer but hit 38% at Bradley (NCAA) once. Where do you see the development of your three right now?

Right now I’m working on getting used to the NBA three point line and I always thought of my three point shot as one of my strongest attributes.

You were a solid and consistent defender at Bradley (NCAA). What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

Right now I think I’m a versatile defender and I think I can keep developing at this and continuously become smarter on this side of the floor

On what areas of your game are you working on most at the moment?

my three point shot

You had an incredible JUCO career at Mineral Area College (JUCO) averaging 13.1ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.9apg, 1.7spg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 61.3%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 87.7% and 18.7ppg, 9.5rpg, 3.1apg, 1.1spg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 72.3%. Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have reported that JUCO was tough, but a great experience that they wouldn´t have missed for anything. How was it for you?

Exactly the same I had a great time at Juco. I landed in a great situation at mineral area with great coaches, teammates and people in the area who took care of me.

You were JUCO player of the year and won a title. How do you remember the title run?

It was a great run and I will always remember that year

How vital was head coach Luke Strege for your early development? How did he help you best in the 2 years?

He taught me how to be a winner on and of the floor and made sure it was easy to adapt to America

You played at Bradley (NCAA) from 2021-2024 and improved your scoring each season. How did you grow as a player there?

Every year me and the coaches worked hard to become better as a team but also develop as an individual which allowed me to take a step in the right direction every year.

You reached 2 NCAA tournaments and in your senior year played very well scoring 14 points against Loyola and 16 points in a loss against Cincinnati. What memories will you always have from that run?

I was happy I was allowed to play more games with team

You had many very memorable games but where do you rank the 73-71 win over UAB where you had 24 points and 14 rebounds?

That was a good game the start the season but my favorite game was when we won a conference title at home the year before

How did head coach Brian Wardle groom and prepare you best for a professional career

He showed me how to work and be a professional and how you have to be elite every day

Who won a 1-1 in practice, you or Darius Hannah?

We definitely got the best of each other a couple of times

Who was the toughest player that you faced in your career at some point that reached the NBA?

We played Sabonis with the Dutch national team was impressive to see him

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron james

Michael jordan

kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kobe Bryant

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron

Did you ever see the squel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

Yeah Coming to America is a great movie and the sequel was fine I don’t think it hurts anybody that they made another one. I can’t say I loved it but it had its moments

Thanks Malevy for the chat.

The pre season for the Dragons Rhondorf and EPG Guardians just keeps rolling along as both teams continue to prepare for the 2024-2025 season. Both teams came off wins in their last tests as Rhondorf slapped around Luxemburg team T71 Dudelange as did The EPG Guardians. The Dragons Rhondorf continue to come together and form good team chemistry as they had already beaten Pro A team Rasta Vechta while the Guardians did some house cleaning during the summer and have brought in many new Americans. Koblenz is a club that is very hungry to have a better season than last where they failed to make the playoffs. This was another big challenge for the Dragons Rhondorf as they attempted to beat another Pro A team. On a warm late summer night, both teams didn’t test in the beautiful CGM arena, but in the Guardians old gym and Rhondorf stuck with the favorite for a half, but collapsed in the third quarter as Koblenz ran away with the contest winning 100-72. When rough moments came it was veteran Ty Cockfield Jr. (183-PG-1996, college: Arkansas St., agency: BIG) that took over, but he also had many teammates that contributed as 5 guys scored in double figures. ‘Basketball is about being disciplined. We saw them as a Pro B team in the first half and took them for granted. We need to fight and play our game and not theirs. In the third quarter we were the Guardinas’, warned Ty Cockfield Jr.. The Dragons Rhondorf played a hard fought game for 40 minutes, but just couldn’t keep up with the Guardians physicality and inside game as they just weren’t big enough down low. ‘I felt like we had a good first half. But we simply gave up too many rebounds. If you get 30 plus rebounds in a quarter, then it will be tough to win. This game is another learning phase for us. We had a really good fourth quarter. It was our goal to win the fourth quarter. We just came up a bit short’, stressed Dragons Rhondorf assistant coach KJ Sherril.

Bryce Workman at the FT line

The EPG Guardians were without Alin Blunt while the Dragons Rhondorf were complete. The Dragons Rhondorf came out strong hitting three’s well as ex Cologne sniper Antonio Pilipovic hit 2 in a row and American rookie Tim Smith also connected while the EPG Guardians used their size advantage and went inside with ease as ex BBL player Dominique Johnson and ex Jacksonville University forward Bryce Workman scored. Dangerous point guard Ty Cockfield Jr. set the tone drawing guys on him and either finishing or making the pretty dime. ‘Cockfield is quicker than Alani Moore and can jump like Brian Butler. He will be one of the top point guards in the Pro A this season’, stressed EPG Guardians sport director Thomas Klein. The Dragons Rhondorf couldn’t get inside, because Koblenz was a giant wall and they opted for the three. Rhondorf kept being a pest and got super support from the bench with Marko Rosic who scored on the drive twice while ex Bayreuth big man Marco Rahn stroked home a trey as Rhondorf led 17-15. However the overall keen inside out game of Koblenz was too strong as Johnson added another trey for the 18-17 advantage. Koblenz also got ample support from the bench as top Pro A big man Maurice Pluskota had 2 pretty assists and veteran Leon Friderici scored. Rhondor also got support from young German Janne Mueller who made an off balance shot, but the EPG Guardians had the slim 25-21 lead after 10 minutes. ‘Our offense was ok, but we gave up too many three’s. We boxed out well and rebounded well. We could of played with higher intensity’, stressed Thomas Klein.

Kelvin Omojola for 3

In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf continued to give the EPG Guardians Koblenz a good fight, but with 3-4 minutes to, it was Ty Cockfield Jr. that took matters into his own hands scoring 5 baskets and helping his team have a 8 point lead at the break. Rhondorf had to fight for good shots and didn’t really get them as Smith and Mueller made difficult shots, while rookie Michael Bradley from Northern Kentucky made a three pointer to dead lock the game at 28-28. But the EPG Guardians were running their plays better and cruised out on a 7-0 run to lead 35-28 as Friederici connected with the long ball while Cockfield who played at Arkansas State and Workman scored in the zone. Rhondorf had problems combating the Guardians physicality and their on ball defense. But the Dragons continued to fight and got 2 clutch three’s from Rahn and Las Vegas native Kelvin Omojola to cut the lead down to 37-35. TIM Smith then went down and had to leave the game which didn’t help their rebounding our three point shooting. Butat this point, the game was simply too tight and Ty Cockfield Jr. showed that in adversary, he can take over and carry the team. He scored 5 buckets each time driving to the hole and showing that he was unstoppable. It looked so easy. His play led the Guardians on a 16-9 run. ‘My job is too take the game into my own hands when we are under pressure. We have a full talented team, but on nights like this, it is my job to lead my team over the top’, warned Ty Cockfield Jr.. The Guardians also got vital buckets from Johnson and Friederici. Plilpovic closed out the second quarter with a bomb, but the EPG Guardians led 52-44. ‘I liked our offensive plays and we showed some good 1-1 abilities. Cockfield showed his dominance, but that still wasn’t him at 100% with his game’, stated Thomas Klein.

Moses Poelking with the lay in

In the third quarter, the EPG Guardians took over winning the quarter 26-6 and not allowing a field goal for 8,00 minutes. Koblenz got on the board first with Pluskota and Workman baskets and then the Dragons received their first field goal from Diallo who was fed a nice bounce pass back door from Omojola as they were behind 56-47. The EPG Guardians then shut the door early on the Dragons with a lethal 20-2 run to extend their lead to an overwhelming 76-48. In the run, Koblenz got 7 points from Cockfield and 6 points from undersized forward Workman who is just a work horse getting rebounds like a KJ Sherril back in the day. ‘A Dragon player also said that Workman reminded him of how I once played. He is an incredible athlete and a hard worker. Everybody respected him in the gym today. He plays with aggression and I think that he will have a strong season as well. Cockfield will be one of the strongest, quickest and most explosive players that you will see in the Pro A. He is a real leader and I enjoyed watching him. I think he has the leadership qualities to carry the Guardians to a successful season’, warned KJ Sherril. ‘Cockfield is a great athlete and player. He has great body control and is physical. He plays at his own pace. You can’t speed him up. Sadly he can get to the basket easily’, said Kelvin Omojola. Koblenz also got that 3 point stability from Johnson again and a lay in by Bradley. All in all, Koblenz was stopped 12 times in the run. Rosic finally stopped the run with a lay in with 54 seconds remaining. The EPG Guardians led 78-50 after 30 minutes. ‘Coach was on us at the break. He told us to play our game. He were more disciplined in the third quarter and played our plays right and were simply a lot more aggressive’, stressed Ty Cockfield Jr.. ‘We lacked physicality and fatigue set in. They had a larger rotation and were bigger and more physical than us. Our goal was too initiate the contact first, but that was tough to do’, said KJ Sherill.

Danas Kazakevicius at the FT line

In the fourth quarter, the Dragons Rhondorf didn’t just lay down and die, but kept fighting and came close to winning the quarter as it was dead locked 22-22. Marko Rosic was aggressive the whole game and at times had misfortune with his floater to fall, but played tough early scoring 6 points in a minute to cut Koblenz’s lead down to 84-58. The Guardians got some insurance baskets from veterans Moses Poelking and Leon Friedrici, but the Dragons kept matching them in the points category. The bench continued to help as young Germany Dyami Janneck scored back to back baskets as Rhondorf trailed 88-62. This kid continues to play with a lot of energy and is trying to follow in the foot steps of his teammate Janne Mueller who has grown much in the last 2 years with his game. Rhondorf continued to forget their fatigue and really gave Koblenz a good test despite being down by 20+ points. Despite Poelking and Cockfield buckets, the Dragons continued to respond as Janneck and Omojola scored to cut the Guardians advantage to 98-70. Workman scored the 100th point and Janneck closed out the game with a lay in as he displayed his quickness as well. ‘I really love this Dragons team. They played like a true title team. They didn’t give us only a great test for one half, but for two. We really needed them hitting us in the mouth. They played hard until the end’, stressed Ty Cockfield Jr.. ‘Our young guys stepped up in the fourth quarter. We had nothing to lose. We busted our butts. We got good energy from the bench. Our coach gave the young guys confidence’, stressed KJ Sherill. The EPG Guardians were led by TY Cockfield with 29 points. Dominique Johnson added 16 points and Moses Poelking 16 points while the Dragons Rhondorf were led by Marco Rahn with 14 points while Marko Rosic added 12 points. The EPG Guardians shot 61% from the field and 47% from outside and had 44 rebounds and 20 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 39% from the field and 30% from outside and had 24 rebounds and 19 turnovers.

Mason Walters (206-F-2001, college: Wyoming, agency: One Motive Sports) is a 23 year 206cm forward that just completed his university career in the United States and now is preparing to sign with a professional team. He began his basketball career with Jamestown high school averaging 21.1ppg, 11.9rpg; and led his team had a perfect 27-0 record. He then played at the University of Jamestown (NAIA) from 2019-2023 playing a total of 119 games. He was able to improve his scoring average each season from 22 to 24 to 26ppg. He played at extra year at the University of Wyoming (NCAA) averaging 12,2ppg, 5,4rpg, 2,0apg and 1,0spg. He spoke to germanhoops.com in late spring about his basketball career.

Thanks Mason for talking to germanhoops.com. When you began at Jamestown (NAIA) in 2019, did you ever have any thoughts about latter becoming a pro player? The dreams are there, but did you feel like it could be reality if all panned out in school?

I have always dreamed about being a professional basketball player but the reality of it never really sank it until my sophomore or junior year of college. I’m very blessed to have an opportunity now to fulfill this dream and I’m very excited.

You are finished with school and now are preparing to become a professional. There is a lot of work. What are you looking forward to most?

I’m looking forward to the process of getting better, I feel like I have different areas in my game that I can really improve on and I’m looking forward to that

You signed with One Motive Sports and with founder Drew Kelso. Could one almost say like the name family could be his middle name?

Very much so! Drew has been someone that has been in my corner for some time and I’m very lucky to have him in my corner helping me navigate this process and being there for me along this journey

Drew Kelso has a great track record of placing players around the world and the NBA. What grabbed your attention most about how he handles young men coming from schooi?
Something that stood out to me about Drew was just the level of commitment and the relationship that we were able to form, it truly felt like a family from the beginning.

You will be preparing for the One Motive Showcase in May. How excited are you for that? Will you have a certain work out plan that you will be following or a lot of what you did in school?

I’m extremely excited to be able to see how I stack up and to be able to showcase my skills. I plan on doing a lot of what I have been doing the past couple years in terms of training and fine tuning different parts of my game.

The NBA Summer League is always an option, but difficult to get in. Would a NBA Summer League invitation be like an early birthday present?

That would be an unreal opportunity and experience and something that would mean the world to me and something that I’m going to have as a goal of mine going into training.

Your not thinking about overseas yet, but what do you know about overseas basketball? Possibly that Germany are world champions?

I was able to watch a decent amount of overseas basketball my last year of college with Coach Linder and the coaching staff at Wyoming. I think my game really fits that style of basketball and if that is where I end up I think it will translate very well.

You had a stellar NAIA career and had to pay your dues and then played a solid NCAA season. How big is your chip on your shoulder? Do you feel you may be a little off the radar?

I think I have always played with a chip on my shoulder coming from an NAIA school and not having very many looks out of high school and I think that is something that I will always play with the rest of my career

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 206cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I would say I would compare my game similar to a young Kevin Love in terms of being able to play back to the basket, rebound, and shoot the 3.

Is it fair to say that your a modern day forward? What is your biggest strength on the court?

Yes definetly, I would say my biggest strength is my back to the basket game being able to create for others as well as score out of the post.

You have had an up and down three pointer but hit 40% in a season a few times. Where do you see the development of your three right now?

I think that the biggest thing was getting my shot off against taller defenders this past year but I started to get more comfortable as the season went on, so I’m really looking forward to improving on that over the summer as well.

What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I’m always looking to improve and get better in different areas of my game so I think being able to switch 1-4 and guard is something that I will look to improve on. I think I took a big step this past year and am looking to do the same again this coming year

On what areas of your game are you working on most at the moment?

The two biggest areas I want to improve on is my shooting ability as well as being able to handle the ball at a higher level.

You played at the University of Jamestown (NAIA) from 2019-2023 and put up huge stats and twice averaged double double stats. How important was it being able to develop consistency at a young age?

At the University of Jamestown I had a lot of freedom to develop my game which I’m very appreciative of and I think it benefited me greatly over my career as they were able to put me in different positions to improve.

You reached the NAIA Elite 8 in 2021 losing to Shawnee State. What memories do you have of this run?

I look back at my time at Jamestown and I have a lot of great memories with my teammates and coaches and I was very lucky to have a lot of success with great people and to play in front of my hometown. I wouldn’t trade it for the world and I will enjoy those memories and friendships forever.

You had so many great games at Jamestown including countless 30 point games, games with 20 or more rebounds and even a 40 point game. What do you remember being your best game?

I had a lot of games that stick out to me but I think my favorite games were my senior year when we played Bethel and Peru State at the opening round of the national tournament. I was playing with a stress fracture in my foot and we were able to come away with two wins and advance to Kansas City for the 3rd year in a row. It was an awesome way to finish my career at Jamestown

How important was head coach Danny Neville for your early basketball development at Jamestown. Into what kind of player did he guide you?

Coach Neville was a big part of my development as a basketball player and we had a lot of time that we spent in the gym working out and I’m very thankful for that.

At Wyoming you averaged 12,2ppg, 5,4rpg and 2,0apg and 1,0spg. How important was it not only playing an extra year but at the NCAA level? What did you learn about yourself and the grind?

I was lucky to have the opportunity to play another year of college basketball but also was in a great program like Wyoming with a great coach and great teammates. I learned different things that will be very beneficial for my career that I didn’t know before being there and I will forever appreciate everyone in Laramie.

You had many great games there including hitting Air Force for 22 points. What was your most memorable moment there

My most memorable moment was during the Border War and coming back down 11 points under a minute against CSU, it was such a great win and showed the fight and belief that our team had.

How did head coach Jeff Linder groom and prepare you bets for a professional career?

Coach Linder really helped show me the mental side of the game and being able to understand spacing, how to attack coverages, and different reads that will be very beneficial in my career. He truly is a basketball genius and I’m lucky to have been coached by him.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Caden Powell?

We had some battles but I’m taking me haha, that’s my guy!

Who was the toughest player that you faced in your career at some point that reached the NBA?

EJ Onu for Shawnee State was the best player that I personally had to guard/play.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My best teammates in terms of skill I got to go with Sam Griffin, Akuel Kot, Marc Kjos, and Boden Skunberg.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

MJ, Kobe, Lebron

Who is your GOAT?

MJ no question.

Thanks Mason for the chat.

In the 26 year existence of the Fraport Skyliners, there are 3 things that fans definatly won´t ever forget. One winning titles as they have accomplished 3 so far and forever remembering the playing memories of their own legends Pascal Roller and Quantez Robertson. There is one new Skyliner player this year who could be connected to 2 of 3 of these things. His name is Malik Parsons (190-G-1999, college: NWOSU). One is winning. He is in his second professional season and already won 2 titles as a rookie with the Danish league title and international with the ENBL. He showed his leadership qualities last season with the Bakken Bears. He also understands that the Skyliner organization is hungry again for winning in the easyCredit BBL. “I wanted to sign with the Skyliners because they just had a good season and I believe I can keep the momentum going. The most enticing thing that made me want to join is the winning reputation”, stressed Malik Parsons. The other connection is to how Quantez Robertson played as a professional player. Recently I observed the Frankfurt Skyliners play a test game against UK team Caledonia Gladiators. It was my first time seeing Parsons play and I was overjoyed with his energy and freak athleticism. Nobody will ever replace Quantez Robertson, but wouldn´t it be a delight to have another player that has that had that type of explosiveness and athleticism that Tez had? His new teammate Trey Calvin definitely feels like he could be on many highlight reels this season. ““He is definitely a freak athlete. He can jump out of the building and is flashy with the ball. We will really need him at the guard position this season”, warned Trey Calvin.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson at his retirement ceremony in Frankfurt in 2024

Malik Parsons who lists Issac Jones, Donnie Watson, Brian Free, Marcus Vinther and Larry White as his 5 best teammates of all-time was born on August 17th, 1999 in San Diego, California and also grew up there. He began his basketball career at Lincoln High School. He then got enormous basketball experience playing at 1 college and 2 universities. He began at Wenatchee Valley College (JUCO) averaging 27.5ppg, 7.2rpg, 3.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 70.7% and in his second season averaged 21.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.7apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 29.7%, FT: 70.4%. How often has one seen Americans having to pay their dues in JUCO. Like is always the case guys sweating extra in JUCO never have any regrets,” My two seasons at Wenatchee Valley College were tough but I enjoyed the challenge and it was worth it. It was a great learning experience and a stepping stone in my basketball journey”, stressed Malik Parsons. He was an absolute walking bucket and proved he was way too good for JUCO, but he is thankful for the great guidance that Jeremy Harden gave him for the 2 years there. “Head coach Harden was very vital in my game to develop and prepare me for the NCAA 2. He taught me how to be as a player and understand the game at a higher level”, stated Malik Parsons. He then played a season at Chaminade University (NCAA2). He was living in paradise in Hawaii, but at the time basketball and Covid were rough for him. “This season was tough only playing 12 games because I had difficulty finding my role in the team”, remembered Malik Parsons. He only played 12 games averaging averaging 9.4ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 62.5%. He scored in double figures 7 timers including scoring 16 points against Hawaii-Hilo. He then finished at Northwestern Oklahoma State University (NCAA2) averaging 12.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 75.6% and in his second season his game exploded as he averaged 24.8ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 63.4%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 75.8%. He gave the definition basketball gym rat a new meaning. “My game grew in the second season because coach Harman had the upmost confidence in me and I was working on my game consistently”, added Malik Parsons. In his 2 seasons he played 55 games and scored in double figures in 40 games. He had 2 40 point plus explosions with 45 against SE Oklahoma and 41 points against UAM. He also hit OKBU for 36 points and Cameron for 34 points. “My most memorable game at Northwestern Oklahoma State University was beating our rival school in our gym. The atmosphere was loud, supportive, and enjoyable”, remembered Malik Parsons. His scoring was so explosive in his senior year that he couldn´t take the full credit for it. “ Head coach Harman best prepared me for a professional career by always holding me accountable and giving me insight from his professional experience”, stressed Malik Parsons who remembers winning 1-1 duels against Brian Free but there were days where he performed stronger than I did”, said Malik Parsons.

The California native who lists Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Kevin Durant on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore came overseas in 2023 and played his rookie season with the Bakken Bears. So many guys come overseas have massive problems adjusting to a different culture and different style of play, but for him, everything fit. He showed he could be a leader as a rookie on a team with incredible veterans like Skyler Bowlin, Ryan Evans or Michel Diouf and put up stellar stats with 14.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 62.4%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 68.5% in the Danish League and 16.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 78.0% in the Fiba Europe Cuo and and in the averaging 14.7ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 63.3% in the ENBL league. He was a central figure in the finals series against Naestved where he scored 21 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists in game 4 88-86 victory. “I will always have the memory of losing in the third quarter but staying composed as a team in the fourth quarter to win”, stressed Malik Parsons. Who knows how his season would have turned out personally on and off the court without the big 3 of ultra veterans Michel Diouf, Ryan Evans and Skyler Bowlin? “Michel Diouf, Ryan Evans and Skyler Bowlin all had a different impact on me. I had a different relationship with each one and they supported me in various ways”, remembered Malik Parsons. In the Danish league he scored in double figures in 27 of 33 games including hitting Herlev for 28 points and Randers for 25 points while in the Fiba Europe cup and ENBL league had big games against FC Porto with 29 points and Newcastle E with 20 points. He now has a new challenge with the Frankfurt Skyliners. He didn´t have to do much research about his new basketball home. “I know that Frankfurt, Germany is a big city and that the basketball there is competitive”, warned Malik Parsons. Making the decision to come to Frankfurt wasn´t a difficult one as getting good advice and being able to play for a driven coach like Denis Wucherer helped. “I received tips from Skyler Bowlin about the easyCredit BBL. He told me that the game is more physical and I can’t take any breaks out there. The talks I had with head coach Wucherer went good. He told me the team is taking a step up in divisions and that I need to be ready at all times”, commented Malik Parsons.

The freak athlete who has Kobe Bryant as his personal basketball GOAT because of his drive and ability to destroy his opponents is a player who doesn´t have just a very good basketball player as to whom he would compare his game best to, but for many the greatest with Lebron James. Fans already received a good taste of how he plays as driving, explosiveness and athleticism are massive in his game, but how defined is his scoring? He was a walking bucket in JUCO and in Denmark, but isn´t a 3 level scorer yet. “I am working towards being a 3 level scorer and focused on this in the off season. In relation to my scoring skills I would define myself as a shot creator”, explained Malik Parsons. He has shown flashes of being a solid three point shooter, but the consistency simply isn´t there yet. “It is shot confidence that is still affecting my shooting”, warned Malik Parsons. He has shown at many different levels already that he can be that impact defender. He has huge goals with what type of defender he wants to become. “At the moment I am a solid defender and I am striving to become a 2 way player”, warned Malik Parsons. And imagine how lethal the Skyliners will be with their three point shooting if he can shoot the ball as well as a Trey Calvin? ““I am working on shooting more efficient shots and working on my 3 ball to improve my game”, said Malik Parsons. No matter what the excitement for the new season is already huge as the BCM was as full as it ever was recently for a test game. Frankfurt last won a title in 2016 and reached the playoffs in 2018. The organization is starving for success in the easyCredit BBL again. They may not reach the playoffs, but staying in the league would be a good start. “I feel confident that I can support the Frankfurt Skyliners staying in the BBL this upcoming season. I do not feel any pressure of having to keep the team in the BB”, warned Malik Parsons.