They may be six years apart, share a different skin color and one hails from Oregon while the other from Illinois, but one that future NBA legend in the making and current Cleveland Cavaliers power forward Kevin Love and BIS Baskets forward Marcus Smallwood have in common is that they are rare basketball specimens that have their energy tank turned full throttle to beast mode every time they are on the court and have a knack for getting double doubles the way a Manuel Neuer of FC Bayern Munich does keeping his net clean in games. Both players are averaging double double stats as Love is making 17 and 10 while Smallwood is making 17 and 14 currently. Granted the German Pro B is very far away in comparison to the skill level of the NBA, but what Smallwood has achieved stats wise in Germany since 2008 in the German Pro A and Pro B has been magnificent and just pure consistent. It doesn´t matter where the American has played who can be thankful to Ron Hicks who told him to get back to playing after the American had returned back to Chicago in 2006 and worked doing job recruitment. If it hadn´t been for Hicks, Smallwood would never have come back to Germany to teams like Kasierslautern, Cuxhaven, Kirchheim, MBC, Vechta or Speyer. He was able to average double double stats for four teams with Cuxhaven, Kichheim, Vechta and Speyer last season. Despite being listed at 198cm, Smallwood always tells people that he is 201cm with shoes on, and has a knack to getting to the ball at the rim. One of the reasons why he is such a great rebounder for his height is because his dad believed he could average a double double in college and his son did as a junior at Northern Illinois in 2002-2003 and he took that mindset into his professional basketball career. Smallwood faced the Fraport Sklyiners Juniors only once last season losing a 69-67 nail bitter in Speyer and was in the BCM for the first time. The Kevin Love of the German Pro B made his debut in Frankfurt and lost a 75-73 heartbreaker as it was a game that nobody deserved to lose. Smallwood finished with 17 points and nine rebounds and was a bit off of Kevin Love monster stats, but still had enough energy at the end to serve me a smile about the comparison to the future NBA legend. “There will always be the best scorer, rebounder and defender on the court. I like to rebound and score and rebound and it was always something I wanted to do well and am happy I have been able to. If you aren´t a seven footer and can score at least what you can do is rebound”, stressed Illinois native Marcus Smallwood. Even if Smallwood has only helped bring two victories in the nine games that he has been with Speyer, the club is still very content that they have him. “He is a beast down low and just gets rebounds and will step out and hit shots. We always need him on the floor to be successful. He did many little things on the floor today and played a key role for us being close to winning”, stressed Virginia native and teammate DJ Woodmore. Frankfurt top scorer Jules Adoko might have made a nice move on Smallwood late in the game to help secure the win, but he had the utmost respect for the 32 year old. “Smallwood was aggressive on both ends of the court. He played with a lot of energy and was a great competitor”, added Jules Adodo. “We knew that he was averaging six offensive rebounds a game. We had problems with him early, but as the game went on, I thought we did a better job controlling him”, added 2015 NBBL allstar Armin Musovic.

The Fraport Skyliners entered the game in eighth place in the Pro B south standings and a record of 6-8 and were coming off a loss in Weissenhorn and had lost six of their last seven games. They had a slow start and were playing catch up basketball for most of the evening.” It was a hard fought game for 40 minutes. We knew that if we wanted to come out with a win that we had to win the rebound battle and we improved at the end and that was the deciding factor. The strong fourth quarter of Jules Akodo brought us the win home”, stressed Armin Musovic. “I thought that we played great team defense and fought on the boards. Our bigs did a great job on their bigs. On offense we had good ball movement that often led to easy baskets”, added Jules Akodo. The BIS Baskets Speyer entered the game in 11^th place with a record of 4-10 and were coming off a massive blow out loss at home against TV Langen 91-63 where Martinis Woody had Kevin Love stats of 25 points, 13 rebounds and five assists while Marcus Smallwood had a unlucky shooting day as he was 3/17 from the field. The Bis Baskets Speyer played very well for 38 minutes, but were unable to close out the game. “It was all about composure. Frankfurt has very talented players and many guys practice with the BBL team. When you play against talented guys like that you need composure for 40 minutes, but weren´t mentally tough at the end”, warned Marcus Smallwood.

TV Langen had had a big victory the day before 87-84 against BG Karlsruhe and American Martinis Woody and German Benedikt Nikolay were on hand to watch the action in the BCM. Both teams got off hot hitting three pointers as Marcus Smallwood and Kevin Bright connected. New Fraport Sklyiner Andrew Bock made his debut as he played the last three years at Pacific(NCAA). After Bock and Smallwood hit free throws, it was Kyle Fossman that gave Frankfurt its first advantage at 8-7 hitting a three pointer. However that burst of Canadian lightening from outside didn´t impress the BIS Baskets Speyer as they reeled off a crushing 14-2 run to take the 23-10 lead. Speyer slowly found their rhythm and were hitting shots, getting out on transition and doing a superb job getting to the free throw line. DJ Woodmore who played at Virginia Wesleyan connected on a few field goals gaining eight points in the run as Frankfurt was unable to cage his aggressiveness. German Alexander Kuhn also drew fouls sinking four free throws and Martin Rittingner connected on a jumper. Frankfurt didn´t allow anymore damage as they closed out the first quarter with a 5-0 run. In the run, Tim Oldenburg hit a mid distance jumper as did Andrew Bock. The BIS Baskets Speyer led 23-15 after one quarter. “I thought that we started off very well. Smallwood and Woodmore played with a lot of intensity and we had good ball movement. We had a good week of practice and it showed in the first quarter”, expressed injured BIS Baskets Speyer forward Khobi Williamson. The BIS Baskets Speyer were shooting 33% from the field and 38% from outside while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were shooting 29% from the field and 33% from outside. The rebound battled was tied at 12-12 while Frankfurt had seven turnovers and the BIS Baskets Speyer zero turnovers.

In the second quarter, the BIS Baskets Speyer held the lead, but couldn´t shake off the Fraport Skyliners Juniors as they continued to camp out on their door step just waiting for that chance to sneak through the door and regain the lead. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors started off the second quarter with a bang going on a 5-0 run as Tim Oldenburg demonstrated his intensity getting a baby hook shot to fall and Andrew Bock connected on a three pointer as Frankfurt cut the Speyer lead to 23-20. However Marcus Ware stopped the comeback with two quick buckets as Frankfurt trailed 28-22. Frankfurt continued to take advantage of the cracks in the defense and found daylight as Akodo and Musovic penetrated and scored as Speyer led 30-26. Speyer not only got solid contribution from the Americans, but also from their German players as Benjamin Kaufhold scored who has been with Speyer since 2007 and played two seasons with ex NBA and current Bamberg forward Ellias Harris. Little used German Christoph Flachs used the confidence of head coach Carl Mbassa sinking a clutch three pointer as Frankfurt trailed 38-34. Kyle Fossman then answered with a huge three pointer as Frankfurt cut the Speyer lead to 38-34. Down the stretch both clubs got some steals and coast to coast buckets from Rittinger and Akodo, but Frankfurt still trailed 41-39 at halftime. “We didn´t come to terms as well with their pressure and had careless turnovers. We played a lot out ourselves. They got easy buckets and screen and roles gave us problems”, stressed BIS Baskets Speyer American Khobi Williamson. The BIS Baskets Speryer were shooting 38% from the field and 33% from the three point line while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 40% from the field and 40% from the three point line. The BIS Baskets Speyer had the slim 21-20 rebound edge, but only eight turnovers while Frankfurt had 13 turnovers.

In the third quarter, the game remained tight as no team could break away from the other team. The Fraport Skyliners regained the lead again as Kevin Bright hit a difficult step back three pointer for the 42-41 lead. However Frankfurt had no time to enjoy the long awaited lead as the BIS Baskets Speyer struck back going on a furious 7-0 run to lead 48-42. Rittinger hit a jumper and Smallwood connected on his bread and butter the offensive rebound and put back and then nailed a three pointer. Frankfurt thought what Speyer can do so can we as they had the right answer returning back on a 8-2 run to dead lock the game at 50-50. Fossman snuck inside for two quick points and Armin Musovic did the most damage dropping two consecutive three pointers as the momentum now was with the home team. After Woodmore and Nolte traded buckets, it was Smallwood that gave Speyer the lead back with one free throw, but Fraport Sklyiner Junior Nikolaj Vuckovic struck a timely three pointer as Frankfurt led again 54-53. However the BIS Baskets Speyer always had an answer as 24 year old sharp shooter Martin Rittinger who played Regionaliga last season for SG Heidelberg-Kirchheim gave Speyer the lead back 56-54. Akodo then struck back with a slick left handed lay in to tie the game at 56-56. The BIS Baskets Speyer closed out the third quarter strong going on a 8-2 run to lead 63-58 after three quarters. It was the German boys Sebastian Heck who scored twice inside and Benjamin Kaufhold that were the spark plugs scoring. “We were unable to take their talented shooters out of their comfort zone. We were unable to get stops and they got the momentum back early in the third quarter”, added Marcus Smallwood. The BIS Baskets Speyer were shooting 40% from the field and 33% from the parking lot while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were shooting 43% from the field and 39% from the parking lot. Speyer had the 33-27 rebound edge and 11 turnovers while Frankfurt had 14 turnovers.

The fourth quarter was a real fight that any team could of won. The Fraport Skyliners didn´t let the five point Speyer lead confuse them as they jumped out on their opponent going on a 6-0 run to regain the lead 64-63. It was Jules Akodo that turned into a lethal scoring point guard as he nailed an open jumper and then scored in traffic. 17 year old 2015 NBBL allstar Niklas Kiel hit a runner. Frankfurt did a tremendous job denying the three Speyer Americans Smallwood, Ware and Woodmore too limited points as Speyer had to rely on their Germans as it was Alexander Kuhn who played four German Pro A games in the 2011-2012 season for USC Heidelberg making a three pointer and giving Speyer the 66-64 advantage. Then it was Jules Akodo again making a clutch shot connecting from downtown as Frankfurt regained the lead 67-66. Frankfurt kept their nose in front getting free throws from Kiel and Fossman scored as Frankfurt led 71-68. The BIS Baskets Speyer made one last run as Kuhn scored inside and after a Kiel miss, it was Kuhn again that came up big hitting a three pointer as Speyer led 73-71. Frankfurt kept their nerves as Akodo snuck inside from the baseline, waited until Marcus Ware was in the air and then made the lay up as Smallwood was to late on the help as the game was tied 73-73. Akodo was the spark plug that motored Frankfurt to the win even if it wasn´t the game winning bucket. “Smallwood closed out on me, but I was able to use my quickness to get around him. I just wanted to be aggressive and read the defense. I knew that Speyer likes to jump a lot so I just penetrated and took shots the best way I could”, stressed Jules Akodo. “Akodo was our spark plug that brought us forward in the tight game”, added Armin Musovic. “Akodo had the chances to make big time plays and did. Many guys remain hesistant, but he had the mind set to right plays. He was hard to stop”, added Marcus Smallwood. After Frankfurt got a stop it was Kyle Fossman who found the hole and scored the game winner as he once did before against Rhondorf in triple overtime. The BiS Baskets Speyer had 15 seconds left to take the game in overtime or win it with a three pointer. With two seconds left, German Benjamin Kaufhold tripped and lost the ball as Niklas Kiel got possession ending the game. “We tried to defend the three point line. It looked like he slipped. I feel the game ended fair. The refs had a hard job in this game”, added Jules Akodo. “There was some contact on the last play. You can´t blame the ref, because we had our chances. It was a tough ending and we fought hard. Akodo stepped up at the end and stepped up. Frankfurt made shots when they had to”, stressed DJ Woodmore. “We can´t complain about losing the game on that last play. We should have had stops earlier in the game and we could of taken care of the game earlier”, added Marcus Smallwood. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Jules Akodo with 16 points. Kyle Foossman contributed 12 points, six rebounds and three assists. Armin Musovic chipped in with 10 points. The BIS Baskets Speyer were led by Marcus Smallwood with 17 points and nine rebounds. DJ Woodmore added 15 points, seven rebounds and six assists while Alexander Kuhn had 11 points. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 47% from the field and 36% from outside while the BIS Baskets Speyer shot 36% from the field and 31% from outside. Frankfurt won the rebound duel 39-37, but had 20 turnovers while Speyer had 14 turnovers.

 

John Eggleston is a 26 year old 203cm power forward from Noblesville, Indiana that is playing his fourth year as a professional and first for the MLP Academics Heidelberg.He played at  Pennsylvania (NCAA) from 2007-2011. He played a total of 125 NCAA games. In his senior year he played 28 games: 13.2ppg, 8.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 45.1%, FT: 73.5%. As a rookie or Leverkusen he played  23 games: 14.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 71.2%. Two seasons ago for Leverkusen he played 33 games: 15.3ppg, Reb-2(11.1rpg), 3.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 74.7%. Last season in the German Pro A for Leverkusen he played 20 games: 16.3ppg, Reb-3(9.0rpg), 3.9apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 80.9%. He spoke to German Hoops before the game against the Hamburg Towers today.

 

 

The team had a nice pre game meal at Fellini the restaurant of teammate Marco Grimaldi. How content were you with the quality and would you drive back on a free Sunday from Heidelberg to Goettingen to get some food there?

 

Fellini is a great restaurant; I would happily go back there again sometime. Goettingen is a bit far for just a one day trip, but a weekend there could be fun.

The MLP Academics Heidelberg came into the winter break and continued to play well after winning their next two games in 2015. What have been the main reasons for this winning streak?

I think we’ve done a good job settling into our roles on the team as the season has progressed, which has allowed us to be more successful.

Is defense an area now where there is still some improvement to be done since in the last two games of 2014 the club gave up an average of 57 points and in the first two games in 2015 an average of 79 points?

It’s hard to make any judgements based on a two game sample size. We are always working hard to improve things on both ends of the court. Some games the results show better than others.

Heidelberg is right in the thick of things in the German Pro A standings and dueling with the Hamburg Towers in the standings. How exciting is the German Pro A this season for you? It seems like it gets more exciting and competitive each season?

It has definitely been a nice change to go from worrying about staying in the league last season to worrying about securing a playoff place this season. There are still a lot of games left so it will only get more exciting.

How weird was it sweeping your ex team Bayer Giants Leverkusen? This is the team that gave you your start in your professional career.

The first time playing against Leverkusen in Smidt Arena was definitely strange for me, but by the second time at home it was a little more normal. I just tried to go out and do my job as best as I could.

Ahmad Smith helped in the win against Leverkusen his first game with Heidelberg filling up the stat sheets. What do you expect from him in the second half of the season?

I expect a strong veteran leadership presence from Ahmad. He is without doubt a Pro A legend so we are happy to have his balanced play and constant triple-double threat on the court to go along with his professional demeanor off of it.

Describe this unique point guard duo of Nico Adamczak and Ahmad Smith. What do their play give the team?

Nico would be flattered to hear you think he’s capable of playing the point, but having those two together in the back court is a good combination. Ahmad’s playmaking skills and Nico’s shooting ability make them tough for any defense to handle.

You are averaging 31,7 minutes a game the most on the team. How happy have you been with your play? Is the abundant amount of scoring quality on this team a reason why you aren´t scoring in double figures?

My role is definitely different on this team than it has been the past few years, but I hope that my playing time suggests that the coaching staff believes I do things to help this team win. Helping the team win is my only goal.

You had a dry spell where you had seven games not scoring in double figures, but in the last three games you are scoring consistently again. Is there anything you changed with your game?

I haven’t made any conscious changes in the way I try to play. During a long season there will always be ups and downs. I’m just thankful the team and coaches have stuck with me through some stretches of poor play.

One could call Kelvin Martin the MVP so far as he is doing in on both parts of the floor. Could you see him making it in the Beko BBL in the future?

Kelvin Martin has to be the Pro A MVP at this point in the season. Every game he guards the other team’s best scorer and makes his life difficult. In addition, he is in the top 10 in the league in scoring, rebounding, steals, blocks, and efficiency. Oh and did I mention he’s shooting 50% from deep? The kid is an athletic freak and a superstar. It would not surprise me one bit to see him have a long career in the BBL.

Tonight Heidelberg clashes against the Hamburg Towers on the road. Heidelberg must have must revenge after the 77-68 loss. How excited are you to be playing in the new Towers gym?

As a team we always like playing on the road. I think we have a group who especially enjoys quieting a raucous crowd. Hopefully we are able to do that tonight.

It seems to be a rebuilding season for the Indiana Pacers. Is there anything positive you have been able to take from their current season?

Hard to see many positives right now for the Pacers. Only bright side may be that it looks like we’ll get a lottery pick to add to the roster.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

It’s hard to find too much time for movies when there’s a new season of The Bachelor on right now, Miles.

 

Thanks Jack for the chat.

 

Brad Tinsley is a 25 year old 191cm guard from Oregon that is playing his third professional season and first in Germany for the MLP Academics Heidelberg (Germany-ProA). He started his basketball career at Vannderbilt in 2008 playing a total of 134NCAA games until 2012 and as a senior played 36 games averaging 9.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.1apg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 85.5%. In 2012-2013 he started his professional basketball career for Generali Okapi Aalstar (Belgium-Ethias League): EuroChallenge: 3 games: 7.3ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.3apg; Belgian Ethias League: 4 games: 4.5ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.0apg, left in Feb.’13, later that month moved to Saint Vallier Basket Drome (France-ProB) playingv 13 games: 10.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 80.6%. Last season he played for the Lakeside Lightnings (Australia-SBL) playing 31 games averaging 28.4ppg, 4.4rpg, 6.0apg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 80.2%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

Welcome to Germany. After last playing in Australia, how happy to be playing in Germany?

 

I am very happy to be playing in Germany. This league as well as the BBL are very well respected and competitive. It’s a great opportunity for me.

 

What were the main reasons for coming to Germany?

 

I knew that Germany was an awesome country to live in, and accompany that with the high level of basketball, it was a no brainer.

How impressed have you been of the tight German Pro A?

 

This league has a lot of great teams. As you can see with the standings, it is a very close race for playoff spots. Every single game in this league is a tough one. You can’t overlook anyone.

 

What exactly is your role on the team? How dependent is the team on your scoring?

Every game I’m just trying to be the best player I can be on that night. Whether it’s passing the ball, playing defense, or scoring. I just want to win. We have a lot of weapons on offense so there isn’t really one particular player that we are dependent on to score.

You are a scorer, but had to play point guard your last two years at Vanderbilt averaging almost five assists a season each year. What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn’t get noticed right away?

Yeah I’ve played the point guard position a lot growing up. I think my court vision is a hidden strength. I love to set up my teammates for scoring plays, especially in transition.

How challenging is it playing with Marco Grimaldi? What do you like most about his controlled game?

I wouldn’t say its challenging at all to play with Marco. He is a good point guard who understands the game. It has been a lot of fun getting to know him and being out there as his backcourt mate. He is a very smart player and I think I can/have learned a lot from him.

 

Waverly Austin was the only center in the Oregon system and wasn’t much of a factor in their offense. How much potential does he have?

Wave has a ton of potential. He has shown that he can be a powerful force in this league. He is very athletic, with good low post moves and is very good on the defensive end. I think he has a bright future ahead of him if he keeps working hard.

Last season you tore up the SBL in Australia averaging 28,4ppg. Did it feel like you were a man playing against boys?

I don’t think I felt that way. The SBL is a pretty competitive league. I was 100% healthy and had the freedom to show what I can do on the court. It was probably my most enjoyable year playing so far. I’m close with all my teammates there and we had a successful season

As a rookie you played with Okapi Aalstar in Belgium. Why was this stay so short?

It was my first team that I signed with to play professional basketball. That league is very good and I just wasn’t ready to produce at a high level yet. I’ve learned a lot and improved a lot as a player since my stay there.

How much fun was it playing with slim magic John Tofi. How do you make him smile?

He was a great guy to play with. He is always smiling and enjoying himself, very full of life. It was a pleasure to play alongside him, he is a very good player.

You played four years at Vanderbilt. How much of an adjustment was it going from a shooting guard to point guard your last two seasons?

It wasn’t an adjustment at all. I played point guard all 4 years in high school. It was good for me to get court time at both positions while in college.

Which guy impressed you more at Vanderbilt on a day to day basis Jeffery Martin or John Jenkins on the court?

I would say Jeff Taylor. He was so competitive every day and the gifts he had as a player were amazing. He would pull off some plays that would shock a lot of people. Although John isn’t too far behind. He is one of the best shooters I’ve ever played with. He has hit a lot of very tough shots in his career. I had a blast playing with them during my time at Vanderbilt.

How did Vanderbilt head coach Kevin Stallings prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Coach Stallings is a great coach. He would push us to the edge in every practice and game, in a positive way. I think he strengthened my mental toughness. Being an American playing overseas you have to be mentally tough to handle the different obstacles that will come your way during a season. He has taught me a lot both on the court and off.

Who wins a one one one you or Nico Adamczak?

Nico and I haven’t really played one on one, but he is a good player. Another great shooter I’ve had the privilege to play alongside. We have become good friends and I am thankful for that.

Where will the journey of the Portland Tralblazers end this season?

I am hoping they can make a playoff run this year. The Western division is very tough this year again. If they can build off their successful season last year and get the right match ups in the playoffs who knows how far they can go.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD movie I saw was Pirates of the Caribbean (Great Series!)

 

Thanks Brad for the chat.

 

Javon Mccrea is a 22 year old 201cm forward from Newark, New York that is a rookie playing in Germany with medi bayreuth. He played at Buffalo (NCAA) from 2010-2014 playing a total of 125 NCAA games and as a senior played 29 games averaging 18.5ppg, 9.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.5spg, 2.2bpg, FGP: 56.1%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 66.7%. He spoke to German Hoops at the 2015 Beko BBL Allstar game.

 

 

 

It is 2015 and what New Years resolutions have you made?

 

 

My new years resolution is too win more games with medi Bayreuth.

 

 

 

You were named to the 2015 Beko BBL Allstar team. How honoured do you feel?

 

I feel very honored to be here since I didn´t expect to be picked. I really liked the festivities and the set up of the 2015 Beko BBL Allstar day.

 

 

 

What player are you looking most to dueling against?

 

I really looked forward most to play against my teammate David Bremblay. We had no friendly wagers on the game, but just wanted to go out and compete as hard as possible.

 

 

 

 

Medi Bayreuth is in 12^th place with a record of 7-10. What have been the main reasons for the slow start

 

 

We won some great games at home, but were unable to close out tight games on the road.

 

 

 

 

 

After your injury, you came back well and are averaging 15,2ppg, 5,5rpg and 1,1apg. How comfortable to do you feel playing in the Beko BBL?

 

I feel very comfortable playing in the Beko BBL as the European system hasn´t been hard to get used to.

 

 

 

How difficult has it been playing without a real center with medi bayreuth?

 

It can be tough at times as sometimes I have to guard bigger players, but my advantage then is that I can use my quickness to be successful.

 

 

 

 

How important has Brandon Bowman has been for your development as a player this season?

 

Brandon has done a good job giving me usual tips to be successful in this league like How to approach the game and understand to reach more in the second half than in the first half.
 

What do you know about Germany and the German basketball scene? Your ex teammate at Buffalo(NCAA) Tony Watson played as a rookie in Germany at Leverkusen.

 

Tony Watson didn´t tell me anything, but all I knew was that some people know English in Germany.

You weren´t drafted and you weren´t picked up by an NBA team at the NBA Summer League. Many critics said that because of the lesser competition in the MAC that may have prevented you from being drafted. How disappointed were you and will this give you the urge to explode in the German Beko BBL?

 

I wasn´t disappointed that I wasn´t noticed more coming out of college, because I knew that I would end up somewhere and that I would prove myself then
 

What kind of experience was the 2014 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas for you? You played for the Dallas Mavericks? With so many well known basketball heads walking around Las Vegas, were you able to meet anyone and able to take things with you that will help you on your journey as a rookie in Germany?

 

It was a very good experience playing in the NBA Summer League. I talked to experienced guys like Devin Harris, Jay Crowder and Bernard James. The most important thing that they gave me advice on was watching out handling my money.

You played at Buffalo(NCAA) form 2010-2014 and were able to improve your points and rebounds each season. If you look back at your four years what part of your game were you able to improve most?

 

I think in my four years at Buffalo I improved my shooting most.

You can score, are an amazing rebounder thanks to your seven foot three wind span. You also are an excellent passer. However if you look at your game, what would you say is an aspect of your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?

 

A hidden strength in my game is my ball handling. I think that I am a pretty good ball handler.

Two ex Buffalo players Louis Campbell and Yassin Idbihi have played in the Beko BBL. What stories did you hear through the years from these two exceptional players that once stared at your school?

 

I didn´t hear much about Lou, but heard quite a bit about Yassin. Coach told me that Yassin did a great job losing weight and really improved a lot by his senior year and became a good professional basketball player.

What was your sweetest memory with ex teammate Tony Watson? I am sure he found you numerous times for the easy bucket.

 

My sweetest memory with Tony was winning the MAC tournament my second year.

Reggie Witherspoon coached you four years at Buffalo. How was he able to prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

 

He helped me very much mentally and really got on me. He challenged me mentally each day and that helped my mental toughness.

Who wins a one on on ein practice you or Brandon Bowman?

 

I beat him. I can´t say that he ever beat me

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

 

State Propery.

 

Thanks Javon for the chat.

 

Chipmunks sleep an average of 15 hours a day so when they are awake it might take them a while to get going and be active with foraging for food on the ground or searching for nuts in trees. Just how long Will Clyburn sleeps daily is unknown, but if he were capable to sleep for 15 hours that would be quite an achievement, but the only similarity that one could see between the American from Detroit, Michigan and a chipmunk is the shade of brown on his hair which he sported in Ulm at the 2015 Beko BBL allstar game. Clyburn must have had enough sleep the night before and possibly the chipmunk brown look was his good luck charm as he had a strong showing at the slam dunk contest winning the title with some amazing dunks. The American is a 24 year old 201cm forward playing his second season in Ulm. If he keeps up his current pace then he will follow Fraport Skyliner Danilo Barthel and win this seasons most improved player award. Last season Clyburn played Eurocup: 18 games: 8.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 78.6%; German League: 38 games: 8.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 75.0%. This season he has improved everywhere. In Eurchallenge play he averaged 12,2ppg, 6,5rpg and 1,3apg while in the Beko BBL he is currently averaging 14,5ppg, 7,6rpg and 1,5apg. Currently he is fourth in rebounding and has glowed with his consistency as he has scored in double figures in 14 of 17 games and had a 28 point outburst against Ludwigsburg. For Clyburn this radical improvement is just another step in his development and a normal occurrence. “I think a big reason for my good play is that I have adapted to the European style. I think that if you don´t get better as a player than you aren´t doing your job. I have been lucky that I am surrounded by many guys that can play and coach gives me the freedom to play my game”, stressed Will Clyburn. Clyburn played three seasons at Iowa State with Melvin Ejim who is a rookie with Virtus Acea Roma this season and also isn´t surprised with the rapid rise of his former teammate. “The thing that impressed me the most about will was his unselfishness, at ISU he was on a team with great players and was our best scorer but was always willing to get others involved while still being so productive. I think often times we see great scorers and players like will but not all are unselfish and willing to do whatever it takes to win. His quick progress can only be attributed to his work ethic and drive to be better. I think Will has the ability, talenter and work ethic to play in any level, wither the top leagues in Europe or the NBA, he is a great talent but even better person and the sky is the limit for him”, stressed Melvin Ejim. Last summer Clyburn played NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas (Los Angeles Clippers): 5 games: 3.6ppg, 1.6rpg, FGP: 27.6%, 3PT: 18.2%. The American has big goals for this season and got a lot of experience from the NBA Summer League. “I have heard that I can be a great defender and defend many positions. I will stick with it and get even better. My main goal as a player is just to win. I want that we all stick together and just help my team anyway that I can”, added Will Clyburn. This weekend Clyburn will be able to match up with top defender Quantez Robertson of the Fraport Skyliners and it will be a challenge. “I have played a couple of times against him. He has a great motor and might be the fastest player form one end of the court to the other. He is kind of a pest that we will have to be ready for”, warned Will Clyburn. Ejim will never forget their battles in practice at Iowa State. “Will is just a bit taller than me but often times we matched up against each other and those were always fun battles, he is a great player and competitor so we always went at each other with 100%. I think those battles with him made me a better player and prepared me to have a great season. We all know will is a great athlete and he’s able to do it on both sides of the court. I think that makes him such a dynamic player and so fun for many to watch”, added Melvin Ejim. The whole Beko BBL will have to be ready for Will Clyburn and ratiopharm Ulm in the second half of the season as they have a quest for making strides in the cup and playoffs.

 

Who would have thought that ratiopharm Ulm head coach Thorsten Leibenath would have such a successful rookie campaign where he led the team to second in the standings during the regular season and made the final? With the success there in Ulm, it seems like having achievement is becoming an expected thing. So perhaps with demands getting higher, pressure did succumb a bit the last two seasons as the team finished third in the standings in 2013 and reached the semi finals in the playoffs and last season dropped to sixth in the standings and lost in the first round. Besides reaching the Cup final, the club had reason to be overjoyed by reaching the quarterfinals of the Eurocup. Scoring continues to be their biggest strength as they scored over 80 points in 22 games last season. Their defense continues to be suspect, but they did improve it last season in the second half as they gave up 80 points or more in only four games in the second half while they did it 10 times in the first half. If one looks at the team this season, it is clear to see that it is deeper and more experienced, but like last season where they had strong individual players, it wasn´t enough to go deeper in the playoffs. When looking at the roster, the club will play a quick style and with the exception of ex NBA player Tim Ohlbrecht have very mobile big men that will give Ulm a very interesting inside out game. The club held guys like Per Guenther who skipped the German national team this summer to get fit and shooters Adam Hess, the Ulm version of Quantez Robertson with Will Clyburn and Mr energy Philipp Schwethelm. Ratiopharm Ulm may have lost their most effective player last season with Daniel Theis, but Leibenath did an excellent job filling up the back court with Tim Ohlbrecht, NBA Draft pick Maarten Leunen and Mr sturdy Boris Savovic who they swiped from FC Bayern Munich. This back court could compete with teams like FC Bayern Munich and Alba Berlin. CJ Harris came from Ludwigsburg and will be responsible for shooting out the lights while Jaka Klobacur will give the team needed versatility at the 1-3 positions and take his 2014 World championships experience in Spain with him. The x-factor could be Tommy Mason-Griffin who hasn´t played the last two seasons. Ratiopharm ulm always believed in him and let him work his way back even if he had some road blocks along the way. He was definatly missed the last two seasons and could be a huge impact player off the bench. It is never easy to predict where a team will end up before the start of a new campaign, but ratiopharm Ulm isn´t only a huge favorite to make the playoffs, but to be a top four team. They kept very experienced team players and brought in a very good mix. Leibenath is coaching his fourth season in Ulm as coach and his expereince has been growing as fast as grass behind the old Kuhberg gym. Currently ratiopharm Ulm is resting in fifth place with a record of 11-6. There best stretch this season was a four game winning streak and have won two of their last three games. Despite the solid mid season record, Ulm has been unable to beat any of the top 3 teams losing to Alba Berlin by 20 points, Brose baskets Bamberg by 27 points and FC Bayern Munich by seven points. Keeping points down continues to be a problem for ratiopharm Ulm as they have given up 80 plus points in 13 of their 17 Beko BBL games. The Fraport Skyliners enter the second half of the season playing sound basketball having won eight of their last eight games. The club continues to get more healthy as Kevin Bright is back and at the start of the week, the club extended the contract of Mikko Koivisto until the end of February 2015.

Ratiopharm Ulm meet the Fraport Skyliners this weekend and since ratiopharm Ulm entered the Beko BBL in 2006, the Frankfurt Skyliners have a positive record against them. They won in overtime 87-83 in 2007 with Murat Didin as head coach. The Eric Chadfield buzzer beater will for some reason always be stuck in the minds of people, which had an eerie similarity to the buzzer beater of Justin Gray against the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg two seasons ago. In 2008-2009, Frankfurt lost 74-69, but got a strong game from ex Skyliner Lorenzo Gordon who scored 23 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. In the first meeting in 2009-2010, The Deutsche Bank Skyliners dominated the game and put on a scoring display led by 23 points by Seth Doliboa as the club prevailed 95-82.Frankfurt shot an astronomical 57% from the field and easily won the rebounding fight 34-25. Ratiopharm Ulm did a great job only having seven turnovers. In the return game in, ratiopharm Ulm lost 84-77 as Skyliner American Seth Doliboa had another monster game pouring home 18 points and 15 rebounds. In 2010-2011, Frankfurt lost a 87-82 nail bitter in the Kuhberg arena, but returned home to win 74-67 as Dashaun Wood poured in 17 points and 12 assists. In the first meeting of 2011-2012 the Fraport Skyliners lost a winnable game 81-75 in the old Kuhberg Halle where Dane Watts made the two big buckets at the end showing NBA player Jon Leuer that guys from Missouri can play basketball. Ratiopharm Ulm had five guys in double figures, shot better and rebounded better. Frankfurt was led by Justin Gray with 14 points. The Fraport Skyliners got revenge in the return game in Frankfurt winning 77-64 in their strong second half of the season. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Michael Thompson with 16 points while Jacob Burtschi had 15 points. In the first meeting last season, the Fraport Skyliners pulled off a massive upset in their living room winning 78-62 as they were able to control the game and play a solid effort for 40 minutes. Frankfurt was led by Zach peacock with 18 points and American Devin Gibson played his best game of the season producing 17 points and dishing out six assists. Ratiopharm Ulm won the rebounding duel, but the Frankfurt defense was at their best forcing Ulm to cough up the ball 23 times. In the return game, the Fraport Skyliners made their debut in the new ratiopharm arena that fits 6000 people and lost a tight game 74-66. Ratiopharm ulm was led by John Bryant with 19 points and 12 rebounds and Per Guenther added 18 points. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Dawan Robinson with 21 points while Ryan Brooks added 12 points and Zach Peacock 10 points. Two seasons ago the Fraport Skyliners celebrated one of their most spectacular wins in their history winning the classic three OT game in Ulm shortly before Christmas 108-102. Frankfurt was led by Andrew Rautins with 24 points. Jarred Dubois added 19 points and Danilo Barthel 18 points. Ratiopharm Ulm was led by Edgar Sosa with 21 points. Adam Hess chipped in with 16 points and Daniel Theiss with 15 points.Last season Frankfurt swept the season series winning the classic triple OT game in Ulm 108-102. Frankfurt was led by Andrew Rautins with 24 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists. Danilo Barthel chipped in with 18 points. Edgar Sosa led ratiopharm Ulm with 21 points while Adam Hess had 16 points. Frankfurt also won at home 71-67 as Ramon Galloway led Frankfurt while ratiopharm Ulm was led by Cameron Long with 18 points while Per Guenther contributed 16 points. The Fraport Skyliners lost the first meeting against ratiopharm Ulm in Frankfurt 77-70. Ulm was led by Philipp Schwethelm with 22 points while Tim Ohlbrechta dded 17 points. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Danilo Barthel with 13 points and Richard Williams had 12 points.

 

Taking a closer look at the roster, ratiopharm Ulm held on to four players. The most important player they held on to was Mr Ulm per Guenther who is playing his seventh season in Ulm. Per Guenther is a 26 year old 185cm point guard that was born in Giessen and grew up in Hagen. He has very good speed and can dribble with both his hands he is very good in shooting from the arc and he has very good organizational skills, he watches the court with one glance and can assist his team-mates on a blind method pretending that he will shoot. He has an inborn charisma of a leader from a young age so he leads his team without having any problem. He played for BBV Hagen from 2003-2006 and with Phoenix Hagen from 2006-2008. In his last season in Hagen, he raised eyebrows with his play playing 29 games: 14.5ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.4apg, 2FGP: 55.8%, 3FGP: 35.7%, FT: 80.1%. Last season for Ulm he played Eurocup: 17 games: 8.3ppg, 3.2apg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 44.2%, FT: 83.9%; German League: 38 games: 11.0ppg, 1.5rpg, 4.5apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 84.0%. The club also held Wil Clyburn who is a 23 year old 201cm forward from Detroit, Michigan. He is a Beko BBL second year man and played at Utah(NCAA) and as a senior at Iowa St. (NCAA, starting five): 35 games: 14.9ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 76.8%. He possesses very much athletic ability, can shoot. Last season for Ulm he played Eurocup: 18 games: 8.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 78.6%; German League: 38 games: 8.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 75.0%. This past summer he played NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas (Los Angeles Clippers): 5 games: 3.6ppg, 1.6rpg, FGP: 27.6%, 3PT: 18.2% Adam Hess started his third tour of duty for the Artland Dragons three seasons ago, and moved to Phoenix Hagen two years ago. The trend the last years has always shown that Hess can´t stay away for more than two years from Artland as He played the first time with the Dragons in 2006 and the second time in 2008 and the third in 2011-2012. Hess is a 33 year old 201cm forward from Michigan that is playing his second season in Ulm. He is a quick forward with not so great athletic skills, but very effective at the scoring department. He’s a tough player, however, and knows how to battle inside for a rebound and he defends well and has a great attitude. He played at William & Mary and also has gained experience playing in Italy, Czech Republic, France and Spain. In the Czech Republic he won the league title twice with Nymburk and the Czech Rep. League All-Star Game -05 (3-Points Shootount Winner) in 2006. In 20092010, he played for C.B. Tarragona 2016 (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five): 34 games: 14.8ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 88.1%. He had much success in the Czech Republic winning the league title in 2005 and 2006 and showing his shooting ability winning the 2005 Allstar game three point shooting contest. In 2011-2012 for the Artland Dragons he played EuroCup Qualifications: 2 games: 3.0ppg, 1.5rpg; EuroChallenge: 11 games: 10.2ppg, 2.9rpg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 51.3%, FT: 84.6%; German League: 39 games: 6.2ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 86.5%. Two seasons ago for Phoenix Hagen he played for 37 games: 11.3ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 84.3%. Last season for Ulm he played Eurocup: 18 games: 6.4ppg, 3.1rpg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 71.4%; German League: 35 games: 5.4ppg, 2.5rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 75.7%. The team also held %. Phillip Schwethelm who is a 25 year old 201cm forward that is playing his third season in Ulm being loaned from FC Bayern Munich. He started his basketball career with Cologne in 2004, where he played until 2009. He played Euroleague at the age of 17. He helped Cologne win the Beko BBL title in 2006. He played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven from 2009-2011 and in 2010-2011played 36 games: 10.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 44.9%, FT: 72.9%. He has been a member of the German national team since 2010.In 2011-2012 for FC Bayern Munich he played  EuroCup: 6 games: 1.3ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.3apg; German League: 30 games: 3.2ppg, 2.2rpg. This past summer, he played Qualifications to European Championships 2013 – 7 games: 4.1ppg, 2.7rpg.Last season for Ulm he played  Eurocup: 16 games: 7.0ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 49.2%, FT: 87.5%; German League: 34 games: 6.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 37.8%, 3PT: 42.0%, FT: 75.7%. Good news is also that after two seasons recuperating from injuries, Tommy Mason-Griffin is finally back. Mason Griffin is a 23 year old 180cm point guard that played one season at Oklahoma (NCAA, starting five): 31 games: 14.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 5apg, FGP: 39.8%, 3PT: 42.4%, FT: 81.3%. After a short D-league gig as a rookie in 2010-2011 at Sioux Falls Skyforce (D-League) he came to Ulm. He has only played one complete season with Ulm in 2011-2012 playing 37 games: 7.6ppg, 1.9rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 80.6%.

Ratiopharm Ulm brought in seven players including a very potent front court with Tim Ohlbrecht maarten Leunen and Boris Savovic. Ohlbrecht is only a 26 year old 210cm power forward/center that is going into his 12th professional season. He started his basketball career in 2003 with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen where he played until 2006. He then made the next step to Bamberg playing there until 2009, but never making the breakthrough. He then took a step backwards playing for the Telekom Baskets Bonn until 2011. He then played for the Fraport Skyliners form 2011-2012. The last two seasons saw him clawing his way through the D-league with teams like Rio Grande and Ft Wayne, but he did play 3 NBA games for the Houston Rockets. Last season he played for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers (D-League): 32 games: 12.4ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 25.6%, FT: 78.0%, in Mar.’14 signed at Fort Wayne Mad Ants (D-League): 19 games: 9.9ppg, 6.4rpg, FGP: 60.7%, FT: 82.5%. This past summer he played NBA Pro Summer League in Orlando (Detroit Pistons): 4 games: 4.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 0.3apg, FGP: 87.5%, FT: 55.6% and in Las Vegas (Denver Nuggets): 3 games: 0.7ppg, 2.3rpg. He has German national team experience having played at the 2009 and 2011 European championship and World championships in 2010. His biggest experience was playing at the Olympics in 2008. The club also hauled in Maarten Leunen who is a 29 year old 206cm forward from Redmond Oregon that is playing his 7th professional season. He played at Oregon(NCAA) from 2004-2008 and as a senior played 32 games: 15.2ppg, 9.2rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 55.9%, 3Pts: 49.2%, FT: 78.9%. He was drafted by the Houston Rockets (NBA,2rd(54) in 2008. AS a rookie he played in Turkeyand the last five seasons played in Italy for Cantu and last season played 33 games: 7.2ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 81.4%; Eurocup: 16 games: 9.4ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 65.9%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 88.9%
This past summer he played NBA Pro Summer League in Orlando (Houston Rockets): 4 games: 9.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 40%, FT: 80%. He also played NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas (Houston Rockets) Finalist: 8 games: 3.9ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 37%, 3PT: 37.5%. New player Boris Savovic is a 27 year old 206cm power forward from Serbia that is playing his second year in Germany. Last season he played for FC Bayern Muenchen (Germany-BBL): Euroleague: 21 games: 4.7ppg, 3.2rpg; German League: 35 games: 7.2ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 76.6%. Savovic is a player that plays with energy and good effectiveness at the 4 position. Can grab lots of rebounds and spend some time even at the 5 position. He played seven seasons at KK Hemofarm Stada Vrsac. CJ Harris is a 24 year old 191 point guard from Winston-Salem, North Carolina that played at Wake Forest. He is like a basketball version of Neil Patrick Harris who was known as Being Tv´s Doogie Howser who had a genius intellect and was the youngest licensed doctor in the country at age 14 that couldn´t buy beer, but prescribe drugs. Harris may not be the total equivalent of what TV doctor Harris was as a doctor, but so far as a rookie, he has had a very strong season where at times his genius play on the court is superior to other players of his age. He has scored in double figures 20 times and had a stretch at the start of the season where he scored 20 or more points in three straight games against Frankfurt, Oldenburg and Ulm. Who could forget his 26 point shooting clinic in Frankfurt where he took over the second half like ex Skyliner Dashaun Wood in his former Frankfurt days and without his production his team wouldn´t have won. He has been in a little slump as of late, but those are always meant to be broken with hard work. His development as a rookie is credited to John Patrick. “I have learned that you have to play tough every night whether your playing the best or worst team in the league. Every team will come at you and you have to be ready. He takes no game for granted and he preaches good preparation for each game”, stressed CJ Harris. The American also has the praise of teammate Grant. “Harris has been our unsung hero player. He is shooting over 50% and just does his job each day”,added Keaton Grant last season. Last season for Ludwigsburg he played 36 games: 10.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 83.6%. Jaka Klobacur is a 27 year old 198cm swingman form Slovenia that is playing his 12th season and first in Germany. He played for Krka Novo Mesto (Telemach League) the last three years and last season played Slovenian Telemach League: 19 games: 11.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-1(2.3spg), FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 25.9%, FT: 75.8%; EuroChallenge: 12 games: 11.1ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 78.3%. He won 6 titles in Slovenia and has vast experience with the national team playing at the 2007, 2009 and 2011 European championships and at the 2010 and 2014 World Championships. This past summer he played World Cup in Spain -14: 7 games: 5.3ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 69.2%. The team also brought in Isaiah Philmore who is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Fallston, Maryland that is a rookie. He played at Townson(NCAA) from 2009-2011 and then transfered to Xavier where he played from 2012-2014. AS a senior he played 33 games: 9.3ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 56.1%, FT: 70.6%. The club also added youth with David Kramer from Austria and Soren Fritze who played at Phoenix Hagen.

 

Dawan Robinson is a 31 year old 188cm point guard from Philadelphia that is playing his ninth professional season and fourth in Italy. This season he is playing for OpenjobMetis Varese (Italy-Serie A. He started his basketball career with Rhode Island (NCAA) and as a senior in the 2005-2006 season played 26 games: 15.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.3apg, 1.8spg, FG: 39.8%, 3PT: 27.4%, FT: 79.7%. IN the 2006-2007 he started his professional basketball career for Limoges CSP Elite (France-ProB) playing 22 games: Score-1(20.4ppg), 4.3rpg, 4.2apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 29.9%, FT: 76.1%. In the 2007-2008 season he played for ASCO Slask Wroclaw (Poland-DBE): ULEB Cup: 12 games: 13.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.8apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 51.5%, 3FGP: 31.8%, FT: 78.3%; Polish League: 34 games: 11.6ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.6apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 73.9%. He then played two seasons for Prima Veroli (Italy-Lega2). IN the 2010-2011 season he played for the : Erie Bay Hawks (D-League): 18 games: 12.1ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 75.7%, then moved to Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia (Italy-Lega2) playing 15 games: Score-2(19.7ppg), 3.7rpg, 1.9apg, Steals-4(2.6spg), FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 19.5%, FT: 78.6%. In the 2011-2012 season he remained with Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia (Italy-Lega2, starting five): 28 games: 18.0ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.7apg, Steals-5(2.4spg), FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT: 77.3%. In the 2012-2013 season he helped the Fraport Skyliners remain in the Beko BBL. Last season he played for the Fraport Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany-BBL): 5 games: 14.2ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 51.2%, 3FGP: 6.7%, FT: 96.0%, left in Oct.’13, in Nov.’13 moved to GreenTops Netanya (Israel-Winner League) playing 24 games: Score-2(19.3ppg), 3.0rpg, 4.0apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 26.9%, FT: 74.8%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

Dawan thanks for talking to German Hoops. How are you and where are you at the moment and how is the Italian life treating you at the moment?

 

The Italian life is great as always I like to think this is my second home lol. I am currently at home lol

 

One could call you an Italian basketball veteran as you are currently playing for your fourth team there with OpenjobMetis Varese (Italy-Serie A). When looking at your career you have seen other European places as well, but does the Italian basketball style fit your game best?

 

I think the Italian basketball style does fit my game best! It gives you a lot of freedom at the guard position!

 

 

Currently OpenjobMetis Varese (Italy-Serie A) are struggling with a record of 6-9 and are in 13^th place. Why has the process of finding consistency still not happened yet with the team?

I think we have made a lot of mental mistakes that cost us a lot of games. In my opinion we do have maybe the most talent on a team in the league we just have to put everything together and close games out. The chemistry is there and everyone gets along. We have a great group of guys here we just have to do some small things better like coming out with energy from the beginning.

 

You are reunited with Andrew Rautins again who was your teammate in Frankfurt. He seems to have found his range again after the long injury. How much fun is it having him as a teammate again?

It’s a lot of fun having Andy back. I am happy for him to respond with a big impact after the injury because I had a lot of injuries and I know what it’s like coming back from them. He is a great guy and he is very easy to get along with. He also brings attitude and determination to the court and that’s what I love about him. He does not back down!

 

How would you describe the shooting stroke of Andrew Rautins and is it finer than Italian wine?

 

His jump shot is like beautiful girls at the beach! A beautiful sight to see! No I’m joking! It really seems effortless. When he catches the ball half the job is done. His knees are bent, hands ready, fingers spread and elbow tucked in. If your not there just run back on defense because it’s good! Lolol Definitely like fine wine!

You aren´t the oldest as there are many veterans around you. What exactly is your role and is it fitting that there are so many other veterans around helping the younger players?

 

My role as the captain is to encourage them and lead them. I try to keep everyone ready and give help when needed. I also push them a lot and challenge them! We all have our ways of helping the team it doesn’t solely rely on one person!

 

 

You have been a very consistent scorer this season, but also have found your teammates whenever needed. How much of a challenge is it for you to be so consistent on such a deep team where many guys want to contribute and can?

You just have to be ready every game. I try to understand the importance of every game and come out and give it my all no matter what happens at the end. I also expect consistency from myself. I do that by putting the last game behind me and getting ready for the next game like it’s my first game.

 

Your time in Frankfurt seems like it was ages ago. It was a tale of two stories. First helping the team stay in the league and then having to depart early in your second season. What did you learn from this experience?

 

I don’t consider it a learning process. It was just a difference with 2 people. Things didn’t work out, so I felt as though partying ways was best.

 

 

Did the chemistry between you and Gordon Herbert just die in your second season? Misunderstandings can always happen, but it seems like coach Herbert takes his role with his starting point guard very seriously. It seems like his relationship has to be very good for all sides to have success and be happy.

 

There was never any chemistry between us. I think that was the problem. I respect him as a coach and I really think he is a good coach but we just didn’t click. I do think the point guard and the coach should have a great relationship and that wasn’t the case.

 

 

 

Your ex teammates German twin towers Danilo Barthel and Johannes Voigtmann have been developing very nicely. What were your nicest memories with them?

Just competing with them and watching their growth. You could tell they would be good players and it doesn’t surprise me to see them developing into two of the best young guys in the league. I also think they needed a coach like Gordie to push them.

 

 

After you left Frankfurt you finished at GreenTops Netanya (Israel-Winner League) putting up big stats with 9.3ppg), 3.0rpg, 4.0apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 26.9%, FT: 74.8%. How proud were you of yourself that you came back and proved that you can fit in in mid season in another situation?

I was very proud! I knew I could and Netanya gave me a great opportunity. The team and the coaching staff was very welcoming and they gave me the opportunity to just play my game.

 

If someone had told you back in 2008 that your ex teammate Kyle Hines would win 2 Euroleague titles what would you have said? Hines is the perfect cindarella story of a guy moving his way up the basketball ladder.

You know Kyle was always hard working. When I would come in to shoot before practice he would be there too. In a way he pushed me because I didn’t want a younger guy out working me so I felt if I missed a day I would be slacking. So now to see him where he is it just lets you know hard work can take you anywhere. If anyone deserves to be that guy, it’s Kyle Hines!!!

 

Who wins a one on one you or Konstantin Klein? Is he tougher than a pit bull?

I would kill Konsty. Hahaha. He once called me old and said he would kill me running a suicide. We made a friends bet make sure the strength and conditioning coach was there and some witnesses and I killed him running the suicide. If I recall the last lap I ran backwards. (Ask him about that) The thing I love about Konsty is his confidence. If you beat him once he will keep coming back until he wins. He has complete confidence in his abilities. You can’t teach that.

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last movie I watched was The Judge. Great movie lol.

 

Thanks Dawan for the chat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kerron Johnson is a 24 year old 185cm point guard from Huntsville, Alabama playing his second professional season and first in Germany with the MHP RIESEN Ludwigsburg. Last season as a rookie he played with the New Zealand Breakers (Australia-NBL, starting five): 28 games: 12.6ppg, 2.8rpg, Assists-5(4.3apg), Steals-5(1.2spg), FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 59.8%. He started his basketball career in 2009 with Belmont(NCAA) playing a total of 133 NCAA games and as a senior played 34 games: 14.2ppg, 3.1rpg, 4.7apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 77.8%. He spoke to German Hoops at the 2015 Beko BBL Allstar game in Ulm.

 

 

 

 

Kerron thanks for talking to German Hoops. How thrilled are to be at the 2015 Beko BBL Allstar game?

 

I am really thrilled to be a part of the 2015 Beko BBL Allstar game. I am very humbled to be here and it is great to be around many so excellent veteran players.

 

 

What player are you most looking forward to battling on the court?

 

I really am looking forward to playing against Heiko Schaffartzik. He always plays hard, smart and knows the game. He played us tough this season with FC Bayern Munich.

 

 

What is your impression of the format National-International?

 

I think that it is an awesome format. It gives the fans something to cheer about. It is great for the fans to cheer for the home grown players.

 

 

What German player has impressed you most this season in the Beko BBL?

 

Besides Heiko Schaffartzik it has been Daniel Theis. He is so athletic, has a great inside out game na dis sought after by so many NBA teams.

 

 

You are playing your first season for MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. The team had a less than satisfactory start, but came into the Allstar break with a three game winning streak. What has gotten better with the team on the floor?

 

I believe that we finally have found our identity on the court. We had many changing parts and it took some time to gel. I think that we will have a great 2015.

 

 

How is your relationship to head coach John Patrick? What has he given you that no other coach has in your basketball career?

He has a lot of experience and as a former point guard at this level can give me a lot. He really knows the game and has taught me to think the game and not just play it. There isn´t a better coach to have then him when it comes to learning how to run a team. He is hard on the point guards, but it makes us better.

 

 

How surprised were you scoring 38 points in your first game in Germany? Were you in the zone on that day?

 

I was in the zone. I never expected to score that many points in my debut in Germany. I found my rhythm early and had a good day. That game gave me a good confidence booster for the next games.

 

 

How important has new player DJ Kennedy been? What do you appreciate most about his game?

 

He takes a lot of pressure off me on the court. Having his presence on the floor, I don´t feel like I have to do everything myself. He is very unselfish and not only a scorer, but a playmaker. He gets everyone involved and just fits in well in the system of John Patrick.

 

 

Last season as a rookie you played for the New Zealand Breakers. What was your wake up call to be a rookie professional player?

 

I think getting to know the competition. We were picked to win it all, but didn´t and we didn´t have a great season. That was the first time in my career where I had a losing season. I learned to survive in tough times. I learned to stay strong and trust the coaches and my teammates that we could dig ourselves out of tough situations.

 

 

 

What were you able to learn from 38 year old veteran CJ Bruton as a rookie?

 

He was like a mentor for me. He oozed basketball, confidence and charisma. He was the kind of guy that you wanted to learn from. We wouldn´t have made the playoffs without him. He showed me how to be a good point guard. I still talk to him today.

 

 

You played at Belmont(NCAA) from 2009-2013. What was sweeter the 2011 or 2012 Sun tournament win?

 

I think that the 2011 win was the sweetest. Up to that win we knew that we were good, but after the win we knew that we could dominate. We won in 2012 again and after that the OVC tournament. That was a huge confidence builder and the program keeps going up.

 

 

How did Rick Byrd prepare you best for a professional basketball career at Belmont?

 

Coach gave me discipline and passion. If you met him you wouldn´t think that he could yell, but he just pushed you to be the best. I have so much respect for him as he did so much for me on and off the court and helped me develop into a man.

 

 

Who won a one on one in practice you or Utah Jazz Ian Clark?

 

I won. Ian is my best friend. He was my roommate for four years and we talk every day. Our battles were always good even if they weren´t pretty at the end. He is like my brother and I am proud where he is today. Our battles were pretty even, but in the end I took it.

 

 

 

How do you get Jon Brockman to laugh?

 

He plays with a lot of intensity on the court. He is the kind of guy that you want on the court. Off the court he is a jokester and just enjoys life. He is always smiling and guys always want to be around him.

 

 

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

The American Sniper.

 

Thanks Kerron for the chat.

 

 

Brad Wanamker is a 25 year old 193cm guard from Philadelphia playing his fourth professional season and first in Germany with the Brose Baskets Bamberg. Last season he played for Giorgio Tesi Group Pistoia (Italy-Lega Due Gold, starting five): 35 games: 16.2ppg, 4.0rpg, Assists-3(4.7apg), Steals-2(1.9spg), FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 77.5%. Two seasons ago he played for Limoges CSP Elite (France-ProA, starting five): 30 games: 9.0ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 78.4%. As a rookie he played for Banca Tercas Teramo (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 7 games: 7.6ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 66.7%, in Dec.’11 moved to Atlanta Hawks (NBA), in Jan.’12 agreed terms with MarcoPoloShop.it Forli (Italy-Lega2, starting five): 4 games: 17.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.8apg, 2.8spg; then joined Austin Toros (D-League, starting five): 24 games: 6.3ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.7%. He started his basketball career in 2007 with Pittsburgh (NCAA) playing a total of 134NCAA games and as a senior played 34 games: 11.7ppg, 5.2rpg, 5.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 76.0%. He spoke to German Hoops at the 2014 Beko BBL Allstar game in Ulm.

 

 

 

 

Brad thanks for talking to German Hoops. How thrilled are to be at the 2015 Beko BBL Allstar game?

 

I am really excited to be here. I am happy that I was picked and fans recognized my hard work on the court.

 

 

What player are you most looking forward to battling on the court?

 

Everyone.

 

 

What is your impression of the format National-International?

 

I think that it is a great format. It gives both teams a great incentive to win. The Germans are more familiar with each other, but we are still going to compete. It is a game where someone can have bragging rights for another season.

 

 

What German player has impressed you most this season in the Beko BBL? Perhaps your teammate Daniel Theis?

 

He has impressed me the most. He works hard each day and always wants to get better. He has been very consistent as of late and is a very versatile player.

 

 

The Brose Baskets Bamberg are one of the hottest teams in the Beko BBL having a 7 game winning streak including wins against Alba Berlin and FC Bayern Munich. What has the team most improved on?

 

I think that we have improved the most on defense. We have been very consistent and have been forcing teams to to take tough shots and and our better ball pressure has led to easy baskets. It is all about being focused and wanting to improve.

 

 

What have you learned to appreciate from head coach Andrea Trinchierei that no other coach has ever given you?

 

He has told me too stay humble and work hard. Millions of players want your position so work hard each day and results will show.

 

 

Last season you played for Giorgio Tesi Group Pistoia (Italy-Lega Due). How much fun was it playing with guard Kyle Gibson? What did you respect most from his game?

 

I have great respect for Kyle. He is such a hard worker, scorer and guy that makes others better

 

 

Two years ago you played in France for Limoges CSP Elite (France-ProA,). What memories do you have form Vassil Evtimov? What is the perfect nickname for him?

 

Vassil was the veteran of the team and worked hard every day. Everybody thinks he is a serious guy when you see him, but in reality he is a very funny guy. He had a floater that he liked taking and in practice he would always scream Opa. It looked like a crazy shot, but it always went in. When I would see him I would salute him with Opa.

 

 

As a rookie you played for three teams in Italy, played in the Atlanta Hawks organization and played in the D-league. What was your wake up call to being a professional?

 

My rookie season was tough. I was the last cut of the Atlanta Hawks a day before Christmas. My rookie season was a great experience though even if it was tough playing for so many teams. This time made me mentally stronger. Having to survive made me work harder.

 

 

You have been very close to making the NBA. What is still missing in you making that dream come true?

 

I think like for many other talented players it is finding the right situation at the right time. It is still my dream. I am 25 now and hope I will get that chance sometime.

 

 

 

You played at Pittsburgh(NCAA) with some future NBA players. Which of those players was your best teammate? Possibly Dejuan Blair?

 

Blair was a funny guy, but he and Sam Young really showed me that hard work will bring results. Just seeing them play in the NBA has kept my dream alive and keep working hard.

 

 

 

How did Jamie Dixon get you best prepared for a professional basketball career?

 

I think that the system that coach Dixon ran at helped me as a player translate to the next level.

 

 

 

Where will the journey of the Philadelphia 76ers end this season?

 

It is hard to cheer for them now. I was always a fan. Growing up Allen Iverson was the man. They won´t make the playoffs this season or in the next years.

 

 

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

The Interview.

 

Thanks Brad for the chat.

 

 

 

Janat Talts is a 31 year old 205 cm forward from Estonia that is playing his sixth season for Tartu Ulikool/Rock (Estonia-KML). He played in Germany at a young age for RheinEnergie Koln (Germany-1.Bundesliga) from 2004-2007 winning two Beko BBL cups. He also gained experience playing in Italy for Cimberio Varese (Italy-SerieA) from 2011-2013. Last season he played for Tartu Ulikool/Rock (Estonia-KML) EuroChallenge: 15 games: 9.8ppg, Reb-5(7.0rpg), 1.7apg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 70.4%; Baltic League: 18 games: 9.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT: 72.7%; Estonian League: 31 games: 10.8ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP-1(66.9%), 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 63.5%. He spoke to German Hoops before todays Eurochallenge game against the Fraport Skyliners.

 

 

Janar thanks for talking to German Hoops. I saw you play early in your career when you played in Germany with RheinEnergie Koln. Frankfurt Skyliners should be a nice memory for you at least their arena. The 10 year anniversary is coming up for RheinEnergie Koln where you won the BBL cup in Frankfurt against Ludwigsburg. What memories do you have of that final game?

I remember we had a great team and very good and experience players in that every year a title was special and cup is very important in Gemany, I was first year in Cologne and this was great for me and for everybody in Cologne! i think it was this cup final when Sasa Obradovic dunked the ball in final minutes and he was 36 or 37!!This was impressive for me in this time.

After some years in Italy, you returned home back to Tartu Ulikool/Rock (Estonia-KML) and are playing your sixth season with the club. Are you at the stage of your career where you think that you will finish your career here?

I dont think about finishing my career jet! I hope I got some good years left in me! I like Tartu and that they play Eurochallenge so i feel good here!

The Fraport Skyliners and Tartu Ulikool/Rock (Estonia-KML) are good defensive team. You have given up fewer than 75 points four times this season in Eurochallenge competition. Can we expect a hard fought defensive type of game tonight?

About todays game I would say every game is hard fight and specially at home nobody gives anything easy for the opponent so its going to be a hard game for both.

You are averaging 8,0rpg in Estonia and Eurochallenge play combined. How excited are you to match up against the Frankfurt twin twoers of Danilo Barthel and Johannes Voigtmann? What do you know about these players?

About the Frankfurt twin towers I know they are tall and good players but I dont care about my own things on court i only hope we win against them!

The Frankfurt twin towers Danilo Barthel and Johannes Voigtmann got a taste of the Estonia winter and it is nonstop snowing. What tips could you give a German to be able to survive a winter in Estonia?

About the winter in Estonia-dress good because they also have to go to Russia where this winter looks like summer!!!

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD what I saw was probably Cartoon”Cars” which I watched with my 3 year old son!!

 

Thanks Janar for the chat.