Omari Knox is a 27 year old 188cm guard from Brooklyn, New York that is starting his fifth professional seasona nd first with the Rhein Stars Koeln (Germany-Regionalliga). He started his basketball career with Bloomfield (NCAA2). In 2009, he started his basketball career in Germany with TSV Dachau Spurs (Germany-Regionalliga) where he played until 2014 playinga total of 99 games and last season played 24 games: 27.5ppg, 9.5rpg, 4.2apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3Pts: 34.7%, FT: 81.0%. In the last three seasons he averaged 26ppg. He spoke to German Hoops about his new team and game against FC Bayern Munich in Cologne.

 

Omari thanks for talking to German Hoops. How exciting have the last five days been? You arrived in Cologne at the start of the week and 5 days later you played against the most famous German sports team FC Bayern Munich. How did the last days feel for you?

The last few days have been really exciting. Everyone had been talking about the upcoming game against FC Bayern and preparing for it. All of the talk and anticipation definitely made me anxious to play. It was an awesome experience to play against last year’s German champion in front of a huge home crowd.

You were one of the top players in the German Regionaliga the last three years for TSV Dachau Spurs averaging 26 points a game. I guess you didn´t have to think long about signing on the dotted line. Even though you are still in the Regionaliga, I bet it feels like you are playing for a club in a much higher league?

Yes, I definitely wanted to play in a higher league this season. Once I heard that we would be playing against FC Bayern, I realized that this was not the average Regionaliga club and I wanted to be here.

Recently you played your first pre season game against FC Bayern Munich losing 97-60. Back in college you played home games for Bloomfield (NCAA2) in a small gym seating 1000 people. The Laxness arena holds 20,000 people. There were about 6000 people there, but all in all was this the biggest arena you have ever played in and how did you like the atmosphere?

This was definitely the largest crowd I’ve ever played in front of in my career. There was a great atmosphere. The fans were great and they had a lot of energy. It seemed like they were up on their feet until the final buzzer sounded.

When you look back at this result, what early impression do you have of the RheinStars Cologne. You played against the best German basketball team with mostly young German players and one veteran German Bernd Kruel. Marian Petric didn´t play and the only other veteran was new player Gytas Pakalniskis who arrived that morning. I think the team can be very proud of this result or not?

We have a very talented team with a variety of experienced players as well as talented youngsters. I was proud of the way that everyone fought the entire game. I think we can definitely be proud of this result. FC Bayern has beaten teams in their league just as bad, so I am not too disappointed with the 97-60 end result.

How tough was the adjustment from Regionaliga style of play going against FC Bayern Munich?You had 10 points, but registered seven turnovers. What was the toughest thing you had to adjust to?

The major adjustment for me was dealing with the size and quickness of the players at that level. The toughest thing when playing against FC Bayern was their pressure defense. Not so much, on the ball as away from the ball. Their size and length made it difficult to make the simple wing/post entry pass, or ball reversal to run our offense.

Dachau is only about 30 kilometers away from Munich. Did you go to the Audi Dome the last few years to watch some games and against which guard Tyrese Rice or Malcolm Delaney do you think could you control best in a game if you ever were to compete against each other?

Yes, I’ve been to quite a few games at the Audi Dome the last few seasons. I’ve seen both Tyrese Rice and Malcolm Delaney play for FC Bayern, as well as in college. If we ever matched up. I think I would contain Delaney better.

The RheinStars Cologne have many very talented young German players. What is your early impression of the German core of players. Which German player impressed you the most on your team out on the court against FC Bayern Munich?

I think this a very talented group of guys. I was impressed by all of my teammates’ efforts against FC Bayern. The two players who stood out the most were Lennart Steffen and Tim Van der Velde.

You are on a team of young Germans and what else besides supplying massive scoring and leadership will be your role on the team?

Setting the tone defensively will be a major role for me this season. If we want to win the league championship then we’ll have to be able to defend and rebound the ball and these are areas where I believe I can really help.

It is obvious you can score and rebound very well at 188cm having averaged 9,5rpg in the last two seasons in the Regionaliga. However what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t always get noticed right away?

A hidden strength in my game that doesn’t always get noticed right away is my ability to make key plays when the game is close. Whether it be: a basket, an assist, a defensive stop, a deflection, or an offensive charge.

You played the last four years for TSV Dachau Spurs putting up massive stats. Was there ever a chance to move up to a better league or even move to a different country? Was there any particular reason why you played 4 years for the same team?

I had some teams interested in the Pro B. At the time, I had refused offers because the money wasn’t what I had hoped it would be at a higher level. I also had a few opportunities to play in France but I have to admit was a bit nervous about changing countries after getting used to playing in Germany. Each season, I decided to wait a few months to see which higher league teams in Germany would contact me to play for them before signing back to Dachau. I knew I was always welcomed to play in Dachau so when I didn’t receive an offer I liked I decided to return.

You were the CACC Player of the Year in 2009 at Bloomfield(NCAA2) and a CACC Tournament Finalist in 2009. When looking back at your senior season what was missing from the team winning it all?

My final game as a college senior, I played arguably one of the worst games of my career. I finished with 0 points, 13 rebounds, and a few assists and steals. Some might say that isn’t a terrible game. However, I had been the leading scorer of the league as well as the Player of the Year. In that game I shot 0-10FG. It’s tough to say, but I believe if I had a better performance we would have won it all that year.

You played your first two professional season with Anthony Pettaway who has gone to have a very solid career having played in Mexico and other teams in Germany and now will play for the Windsor Express in Canada. You both put up big stats, but how important was it having him as a teammate when you were a rookie? You both were rookies and how did you guys make each other better on the court?

Playing with Anthony was a really good experience. As rookies we were able to impact the rest of the guys with the way challenged each other to work harder and compete.

If you had the choice to share a cafe table with native Brooklyn players Stephon Marbury, Vinnie Johnson or John Salley who would you chose to talk basketball?

I would probably choose Stephon Marbury mainly because I grew up watching him play. He was definitely an inspiration for me as a Brooklyn guard.

Where will the NBA journey of the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets end this season?

I’ve been a die-hard Knicks fan all of my life but I’ve also liked the Nets as well. Especially in the years of Jason Kidd. With the move to Brooklyn I’ve grown to like them even more. I think the Knicks will make the playoffs and the Nets won’t.

What was the coolist ALS ice bucket challenge that you saw this summer?

I think James Harrison of the Pittsburgh Steelers had the coolest/craziest ALS Ice bucket challenge I’ve seen this summer.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD movie I’ve seen was The Hunger Games:Catching Fire.

 

Thanks Omari for the chat

 

Decorey Jones is a 24 year old 198cm forward that will be starting his third professional season and first for the Moncton Miracles (Canada-NBL Canada). He started his basketball career with Bossier-Parish CC (NJCAA) and then played his last two seasons of college ball with Faulkner (NAIA). He has been a professional since 2012, but has played in countries like Malaysia, Mongolia and Spain. In 2012 he first played for the Conyers Court Kings (WBA). He then played for the Crouching Tigers (Malaysia-MNBL) playing 8games: 16.2 PPG, 11.3 RPG, 1.2 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.0 BPG, 40.2 FG%, 45.5 3PT%, 65.5 FT%. Then he played fort he BZ Bulls (Mongolia-MBA) averaging 25.2 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 2.3 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.4 BPG, 51.4 FG%, 42.5 3PT%, 76.9 FT%. Last season he played for CB Virgen de La Concha Zamora (Spain-EBA): 17 games: 10.6ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 62.5%; Spanish EBA: 17 games: 22:56 Mins, 10,6 PPG, 53,4% FG, 25% 3PT, 62,5% FT, 5.8 RPG, 0.4 APG, 1,2 SPG, 0,6 BP. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

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

I am Currently In South Carolina working out with my Trainers, This summer has been awesome, I got a chance to run my 2nd Annual Hoops & Christ Camp along with assisting with other camps across the U.S, visited family I haven’t seen in years, and training this summer was very productive and efficient improving myself as a player.

You seem to have the ultimate basketball fairytale coming from an NAIA and having a steady professional basketball career since years. Does it feel like a fairytale for you sometimes?

I’m so thankful and blessed God has allowed me to play the game I love for a career. Not many get to do it after college especially coming from where I have. Yes sometimes when I’m clearing my mind and thinking back on life, I am still amazed how far I have come!

The perfect title for you would be, From the NAIA to professional basketball globetrotting life. If you had to name a book after your life how would you do it?

I would title the book “Underrated” I have been the underdog my whole life, always having to proving myself to get to where I wanted to be.

Are you the perfect example of how hard work, faith and skills can help you reach your dreams of playing basketball for a living?

I definitely am, hard work pays off and I knew I could reach my dreams if I dedicated 100% of everything I had into it no matter what people thought about me or where I came from. Faith without work is Dead! Praying is a key ingredient to my success and anyone else’s, but if you don’t work hard you will find doors of opportunity don’t open up for you when you knock!

As a senior you averaged only 6.6 PPG 3.6 RPG at Faulkner. Are you at times surprised how far you have come in only a few years?

I knew I could put up good numbers and make it far if I was given the opportunity to play my game, a lot of players get overlooked because of the system they are playing in. Much respect to my college coach, but under his system I had a role to play and that’s exactly what I did.

You obviously have what it takes as a professional as you have played in Spain, Mongolia and Malaysia. How important was Faulkner head coach Jim Sanderson in getting you prepared to enter the world of professional basketball?

Coach Sanderson changed me on and off the court. He developed my mental toughness which was a weakness in my game. We were the hardest working program in America and coming to his program changed my whole mindset as a player. Hard work is all I know now! He gave me the tools I needed to play anywhere in the world teaching me post moves, footwork, developing my speed and strength, and defending 6’9s and up sometimes. I am a Guard, and coach gave me the tools to be the complete package!

What has helped you in general to be able to get so quickly adjusted to a new country?

Just being open and trying out new things, I love new cultures and practicing their ways of doing things, you find out when you do it they’re way things go smoother when you’re on their turf.

Wherever you have played so far as a professional, you have put up good stats. How important has mindset been for you to come into new situations and bear all circumstances around you no matter how difficult it was?

This is my Job! If I don’t produce I don’t get paid, basketball is how I survive. So in every country I go to my mindset is to go 100% in everything I do and present myself well, because each year is important to me if I want to continue to move up the ladders of a professional.

Two seasons ago you played for BZ Bulls (Mongolia-MBA) averaging 25.2 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 2.3 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.4 BPG, 51.4 FG%, 42.5 3PT%, and 76.9 FT%. You are the first guy I have ever known to play in Mongolia. I didn´t even know they had a league. What kind of experience was it playing there and what one experience will you always remember in your life concerning the country?

My experience there was a roller coaster ride! The weather conditions and language barrier was extremely tough for me to adjust to. Playing there as great because of the fan support. What I remember the most was playing in the ALL- Star game winning the MVP, and the Dunk contest! In front of 8,000 plus in attendance.

Last season you made a step up the professional ladder playing in the fourth Spanish division with CB Virgen de La Concha Zamora (Spain-EBA) playing 17 games and averaging10.6ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 62.5%. Was the style and level very much higher than in Mongolia and Malaysia?

It was much higher, and a completely different style of play. I had to adjust to the Fiba rules, and also adjust to the speed of the game, running more systems and coming to more of a “team based” structure.

There were only two imports with yourself and Nikola Bodic from Serbia. How were you able to develop your game further there and how as the transition coming from the east to the European style of play?

I was able to develop my game tremendously coming to Europe, Nikola actually taught me some of his European moves and tricks he does to help him compete at a high level. I took a little from him, and also just from just playing. My basketball IQ is on another level also, Europe runs a lot of systems and having to learn so many plays developed my awareness on the offensive and defensive end of the court.

This season you are headed back to North America to play for the Moncton Miracles (Canada-NBL Canada). This is a solid league, but are you a bit disappointed that you can´t stay in Europe?

Not disappointed at all, im playing the game I love for a living and Canada is close to home, and it is like you said a solid league. This year will give me great exposure to showcase my skills.

Do you see this as a minor setback as you seemed to have a leg into the European door?

No not at all, a lot of guys who played in this league in the past have gone on to play in top leagues after. I know this is the right move for my career.

The scouting report on you is extensive. You can score in a variety of ways. He is a great long-range shooter and can also take his man into the post and score over him. Can also score off the dribble and on pull-up jumpers. Is also a good free throw shooter, Great rebounder. Extremely long arms allow him to grab steals and block shots. He has a 6’8″ wingspan. Jones has the ability to put the ball on the floor and go coast to coast and is unstoppable in the open court transition game finishing strong at the basket with his freakish athleticism. He has experience at the 2-4 positions and is always willing to adjust his game to the role his coach assigns him. With all this said and done, what is a hidden strength in your game that isn´t always recognized right away when one sees you play on the court?

I am the spark! I make plays to get the momentum of the game going our way. This has been my hidden talent since I started playing basketball, coming into the game and providing energy my teammates can feed off of.

What do you know about German basketball and the country? I know that you know guys like Patrick Richard, Diego Kaplen and Chuck Eidson. How big is your desire to one day play in Germany?

I know all about German basketball It is a great country for basketball, it’s a country I wanted to go my whole life, and it’s still a big dream of mine.

You work out in the off season with Chuck Eidson. He made it to the big time coming from Giessen and moving to top European power house team Rytas, Macabbi Tel Aviv and FC Barcelona and has 78 Euroleague games experience. How much of an inspiration has his basketball story been?

He has been a huge inspiration to me, knowing where he started, and now today is playing in Euroleague. He motivates me in so many ways, knowing that I can do the same thing if I get to the right team, and get seen at the right time!

How has he helped you become a better player?

Chuck and I play pick up ball and train at his old High School Pinewood every Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday, every chance I get I guard him studying his moves and the decisions he makes on the court, and also chatting on the sideline with him getting veteran advice on the business standpoint of the game.

You are a very religious person. How present is Jesus Christ not only in your normal life, but also in your basketball life?

Jesus Christ is why I am able to be interviewed today! He is the heart of everything I do in life! both on and off the court. God will show you things you couldn’t even imagine; when you put him first he will give you the desires of your heart. I am a living testimony he is present coming from where I came from!

You obviously are living the dream being professional, but what is your ultimate basketball dream?

My ultimate basketball dream is to be able to have my own basketball academy for the youth. Hosting camps, tournaments, and recreation for kids to have something to do to keep them off the streets!

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

“Bound” an overseas documentary you can view on youtube. Great educational tool for life and basketball overseas!

 

Thanks Decorey for the chat.

 

Dan Oppland is a 30 year old 203cm forward that has returned back to Germany and will play for Rent4Office Nurnberg this season in the German Pro A. He started his basketball career for  Valparaiso (NCAA) in 2002 where he played until 2006. He started his professional basketball career in 2006 for  Hanzevast Capitals Groningen (Holland). He then played in countries like Poland and Sweden before coming to Bayreuth in 2008. He then played for seasons for Allianz Swans Gmunden (Austria-A Bundesliga) where he won three titles. Last season he played for  Namika Lahti (Finland-Korisliiga) 47 games: 15.7ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.0%. He spoke to German Hoops during the summer before he came to Germany about basketball.

 

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

Hey Miles. I am in Italy at the moment with my fiancee and her family and just enjoying the sun and scenic culture that is Italy.

How blessed are you that you will be playing a ninth professional season? Many players can´t say that they have had a long career like you? How much hard work has it been keeping your body always ready?

I am truly blessed to continue my career for another season. I have been blessed to have no serious injuries during my career. but I have put a lot of hard work and time into staying in shape, especially now since I am older for a basketball player.

Welcome back to Germany. It has been a while that you played in Germany. You will be playing for German pro A team rent4Office Nurnberg not too far away from old club Bayreuth. What were the main reasons for coming back to Germany?

Its great being back in Germany. I have been wanting to get back here for some time now. I love the country as a whole. A big reason for coming back is to be closer to my fiancee and her family, and also this might lead to a future career in Germany. After all, I could end up living in Germany in the future too so this might open up some doors for me. Plus, the basketball is at a very high level in Germany, so I have always wanted to come back.

Did you have talks with new Rent4Office head coach Ralph Junge? He has been known for being a very good coach for young players at Ehingen for many years. How excited are you to play for him and witness what he will be able to give to you as an experienced player

Coach Junge and I have shared some emails these past few weeks and I have heard nothing but great things about him. My twin brother Mike actually played for him in Ehingen in the 2008-2009 season, and he always spoke highly of coach. I am very excited to learn from him and hopefully grow as a player these next few years.

After four successful years in Austria, you last season played for Namika Lahti (Finland-Korisliiga). What was the challenge and appeal to play in Finland?

The Finland job was a blessing for me because it was already September and I still had no real prospects for a job. I wanted to stay in Austria but they were having money problems, so this wasn´t going to work out. when my agent called me about the offer he said my former teammate in Austria would be playing with me as well, so I was on board.

You reached the playoffs with Namika Lahti losing to Pyrinto.. In the three games you lost, the team was outscored by 72 points. How do you see the playoffs and season summary for the team and you?

The Pyrinto series was a tough one. Even though the scores looked bad in some games, the games were actually closer then they looked. I think we grew as a team during this series. Pyrinto was just too strong for us and obviously the entire league as they won the championship. Since Lahti had not made the playoffs in five years, we made some positive steps forward by making the playoffs. I was proud of our team and how we fought until the end.

In Austria, you played four seasons for Allianz Swans Gmunden (Austria-A Bundesliga) winning three titles. What was the sweetest moment for you in these four years?

Playing in Gmunden was sort of a dream situation because there are countless memories I will never forget. all the championships, relationships I experienced will always be with me. my fondest memory of Gmunden was playing with my brother mike the last 2 years. That was just so special for me.

You played under Telekom Baskets Bonn head coach Mathias Fischer in Austria. Are you a bit sad that he didn´t take you to Giessen or Bonn when he came to Germany

I held no negative feelings toward Mathias for not taking me with him to Giessen or Bonn. He is a coach who knows what he wants and his results speak for themselves. He is a winner and I enjoyed my time with him. I wish coach Fisher nothing but the best because he has worked hard to get where he is at today. he deserves it.

It is obvious that scoring and rebounding is your bread and butter, but what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

I am not the most athletic player you will see, but I think I am little quicker than what people give me credit for. I would like to think my defense on the perimeter is pretty strong for a big man or so I think.

It seems like it has been ages since you played in Bayreuth. Do you still keep in touch with ex teammates and have you been following your ex team through the years? They moved up to the Beko BBL in 2010 and have stayed.

Yeah it has been a while since the Bayreuth days. The only player I consistently stay in touch with is Jaivon Harris. We always have been close. I consider him a brother. But I have kept in contact with other players from time to time. I have a lot of great memories from Bayreuth. I still keep up with them. I hope they can move up the table even more next season.

Now that you are 30, do you have to work even harder in the off season to keep your body flowing? How does a normal summer work out day look like for Dan Oppland?

Yeah I try to work as hard as possible. Although I probably rest my body more than I used to being that I am older now. a normal summer workout day consists of shooting with mike for at least an hour, and weight training or some type of cardio training whether it is running, swimming, biking, etc. We usually do a two a day almost everyday. and we have incorporated more yoga into our workouts for flexibility. I never thought I would be doing yoga, but I love it.

Austria isn´t so much different than Germany, but there are its differences. What have you missed about Germany the last years?

I have probably missed the beer the most if you want me to be honest. There is no better beer in the world in my opinion.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last movie I watched was inception.

 

Thanks Dan for the chat.

 

 

Dane Watts is a 28 year old 203cm forward from Warrensburg, Missouri that will be entering his seventh professional season and first in Spain with Baloncesto Sevilla (Spain-Liga Endesa). He played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2004-2008 with NBA player Anthony Tolliver. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3Pts: 42.5%, FT: 71.8%. In 2008, he came to Germany and started his professional basketball career with EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga) playing 32 games: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1(68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7%. In 2009-2010, he came to The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. In 2010-2011 for Tuebingen, he played 33 games: 13.7ppg, Reb-4(7.6rpg), 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 54.5%; in May’11 moved to Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket (France-ProA): 3 games: 7.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg. He then played for ratiopharm Ulm from 2011-2013. Last season he played briefly for the Fraport Skyliners before another injury forced him to cut his season short. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

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

I am in Seville Spain getting acclimated to the team and new city.

The most important question is how are you? Last season you were only able to play four game for the Fraport Skyliners. You suffered a concussion in Ludwigsburg which very much shortended your season.

I am fully recovered from that unfortunate incident that cut my time short in Frankfurt. I don’t feel like the fans, management and team got a chance to see what I could fully bring to the club. There were a lot of injuries to the Skyliners that kept them from winning more games.

How difficult were the last 18 months? Your 2012-2013 season was cut short in Ulm where you had to rehab and come back and then in Frankfurt your stay was very abrupt. What did you learn in this time having to miss basketball on the court?

I learned who really cared about me as a person when I couldn’t perform as a player. I can’t thank for family enough for supporting me during this rough season in my career. My faith grew and gave me hope, I am not defined by what I do but who I am.

You have played for several coaches in Germany like Igor Perovic and Torsten Leibenath, but in your short time with the Fraport Skyliners, what important aspect about the game of basketball could you learn from Gordon Herbert?

I enjoyed working with Gordie, I know it was a difficult season for him with so many players with little experience but I appreciated his concepts for spacing on the court. Teaching reads and letting players make basketball plays.

Your exteammate Jacob Burtschi isn´t with the team now despite still being listed on the Fraport Skyliners roster. You had played against him for three seasons and last season was his teammate. If you look at him the basketball player and his charachter, what is still something that we haven´t seen from Jacob Burtschi that you could see still happening?

Jacob is a guy that helped the team in numerous ways. I was looking forward to playing with him and Andy Rautins in Frankfurt. I don’t know what the future holds for Burtschi but I wish him the best in his endeavors

You have signed with Spanish team Sevilla. Hoe blessed do you feel to be able to make the next step in your career and play in the second best basketball league in the world?

I am extremely blessed, I feel like God still has a purpose for me on the basketball court and I look forward to the competition in the ACB

Your agent did some outstanding work not only getting you signed after 18 months of injuries, but on top of that getting you to a team in Spain. Were you at first suprised when you were told that Sevilla wanted you or was your reaction more laid back like „Ok cool“?lol

I am working with a new agent who has been a friend of mine and he went to work right away to get me opportunities this summer into different markets. I was in Vegas training and got to workout with a lot of good players at Impact while numerous coaches and GMs watched. The new owner from Seville was there and the communication began.

You are 28 years old now. Do you feel that you are in your best basketball age? Do you see yourself putting higher expectations on yourself now that you will be playing in the Spain-Liga Endesa

I always have high expectations for myself, I have played at a high level in Europe with Ulm and look forward to the weekly challenges of the ACB

Looking at the roster, you have three American teammates that have been in some way affliated with the NBA. You played against former San Antonio Spur Derrick Byers when he played for Alba Berlin, Jerel Mcneil had a 10 day NBA contract with the Denver Nuggets and Xavier Thames was drafted by the Toronto Raptors. Do you feel somehwat in awe being around guys like this or did you already have that feeling in Ulm with Allan Ray?

Basketball is basketball and we are playing on the same court together. There will be a lot of eyes on this team with the young players with NBA potential as well as the players you mentioned. Practices will be daily battles

In Ludwigsburg and Tuebingen you were a central figure in the offense and in Ulm you were a role player while in Frankfurt you would have been a central figure in the offense. How do you see your role with Sevilla. What has been your impression so far as to what kind of a role you could have?

I have just arrived but I am sure that the team is relying on me for my leadership and European experience with such a young team.

How excited are you to be playing against FC Barcelona and Tibor Pleiss? This will be the third season of Pleiss in Spain and maybe his last before going tot he NBA. What memories do you have from Pleiss early in your BBL career? Did you ever think such a skinny kid then could get so far?

The main memory I have of Pleiss is catching the lob from Brian Roberts to beat us in the finals

You will be playing Eurocup with Sevilla and will have the chance to play against German teams like Bonn, Oldenburg, Bamberg or Artland. If you could pick one team that you would like to play against in the Eurocup who would you chose?

I will enjoy coming back to play anywhere in Germany, it will be a chance to play against a style I am familiar with and for the league/fans to see me in a new role.

When you were a rookie with ENBW Ludwigsburg, it was the last professional season of Brian Jones, Kelvin Gibbs and Brandon Woudstra. If you could describe each in a sentence from your memories with them how would you?

Brandon was maybe the best shooter I have played with in Europe and a big help to my transition living in Europe. kelvin aka “pamper” was another veteran that helped me transition from college to pro. Brian was our floor general that never got rattled on the court. All of those guys should have played a few more years in my opinion

Where will the NBA journey of the Cavs and Lebron and Kevin Love end this season?

If they don’t go to the Eastern conference finals it will be a failure. Health of Love and Kyrie will be big

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I watched Spiderman 2 on the flight over.

 

Thanks Dane for the chat.

 

Zeon Gray is a 178cm point guard that played at the University of the Fraser Vally (CIS) in Canada before truning professional in 2011. Since turning professional he has played for teams like Santa Monica Jump (WCBL) EOSC Offenbach (Germany-Oberliga), DJK Nieder-Olm (Germany-2.Regionalliga) and currently played preseason for EVL Baskets Limburg (Germany-Regionalliga). He is currently in Germany and spent some time in Bayreuth with his friend Brandon Bowman.

 

 

 

Zeon thanks for talking to German Hoops. A few days ago you jumped into a Regionaliga game in Limburg against Giessen and now you are practicing with Beko BBL team medi bayreuth. Could one say that this is something a guy like you is used to coming form Los Angeles where the fast flowing lifestayle is a bit different than in the countryside of Iowa?

No problem at all Miles.Thank you for the opportunity to talk.I didn’t get to practice with Medi actually.That will be a goal of mine especially if I sign with their second team.

On Sunday, you came 10 minutes late to the test game EVL Limburg vs Giessen 46ers. Talk about your crazy experience just getting tot he gym safely?

That was the craziest day of my life.On the autobahn my front passenger side tire just shot off and rolled away.Very scary experience I’m blessed that I was able to pull off to the side and get assistance.

You scored 16 points in the 90-53 loss to Giessen. How did it feel playing in the game? At times it looked like you had been with the team for forever as you got the young guys into the huddle.

Due to my pre game circumstances,I wasn’t able to warm up properly and focus on the game.With that being said,my point total was low. Me gathering the young guys into huddles was just me being what I am,which is a floor general/leader.It’s very important to keep guys on the same page especially against a well coach team like Giessen.

You hit a ridiculous in your face bank shot in the game against Giessen. Where would you rate that shot in all the crazy shots in your career?

That shot was pretty typical.So I wouldn’t rate it THAT high.I’m a small guy who has to get my shot off in weird ways. I practice that shot.

When you first came on the court, I thought Ron Howard your brother had flown in for the game. Explain your relationship with him and how is nthe game of you both similar or different?

Ron is looked at like an older brother because he was always around to give me advice.Very thankful for him. Our style of play is night and day.He’s a much more reserved player.I tend to push the envelope a bit more.

Was Limburg head coach Danny Stahllbohm interested in your services? Or Is Limburg not an alternative now?

Coach Stahllbohm has always shown interest.You never rule anything out in this business.Right now,my mind is elsewhere but you never know.

Now you are in Bayreuth with your friend Brandon Bowman. What is always the nicest thing about seeing the soft spoken Bowmann again?

Brandon is one of the funniest guys I know.He is constant entertainment.I’m sure some of his infamous YouTube videos will surface if they haven’t already.

There were 3-4 years in a row where he was so close to making the NBA, but was cut in training camp. From your view point what do you think was missing from his game that denied him a shot in the NBA? Perhaps that there are too many athletic guys around?

It definitely wasn’t any skill reason why that didn’t happen.He is an extremely talented player.Bottom line is,the NBA isn’t for everybody.He’s been all around the globe playing this game.Italy,Turkey,Israel etc.So I think it was just a numbers game.

You have seen medi bayreuth practice. What is your overall impression of this team? They have avery skilled scoring point guard Trevon Hughes who can get his teammates involved and the inside with Bowman, Mccrea and Burrell could be one oft he top trios in the league.

They will surprise a lot of teams in the Beko BBL this season with a good core group.

What is your impression of Javon Mccrea? He had a stellar career at Buffalo and played 5 games for the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Summer League. Is the potential of this guy unnending or what?

He’s a monster in the paint. His toughness reminds you of Ben Wallace.Without the wild hair of course.He will be a force for years to come.

The medi bayreuth second team could be a perfect situation for you. Are you considering this option?

This is a strong option at this point.I think that could be a beautiful opportunity for me.

If you could sell yourself best as to why any team could help you now how would you do it?

In a few short words,I would simply say it would be tough to find a guard willing to sacrifice so much of himself for the team to grow and win. Anything my coach would ask of me,without any hesitation,I WILL do it.

You are a 178cm point guard. What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

A hidden strength is my leadership.

Where will the journey of the Cavs end this season with Lebron and Kevin Love?

I’m not sure.I’m too busy being a Laker fan.Dark days for the franchise but I’m staying true to the home team.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I’ve been watching a couple of series online. The Wire and Power.Power surprised me because it was produced by Mogul/Rapper 50 cent.

 

Thanks Zeon for the chat.

 

Logan Stutz is a 26 year old 205cm forward from Kanas City that will be starting his fourth professional season and second in Germany with Bike-Cafe Messingschlager Baunach (Germany-ProA).Last season he played for LF Basket (Sweden-Basketligan): 17 games: 13.9ppg; Balkan League: 13 games: 9.3ppg, 5.8rpg, 2FGP: 56.4%, 3FGP: 43.8%, FT: 63.0%, in Dec.’13 moved to Balkan Botevgrad (Bulgaria-NBL): 18 games: 6.7ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 80.8%, 5.2rpg, Blocks-2(1.8bpg), FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 71.9%ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (Germany-ProA): 28 games: Score-1(20.1ppg), Reb-5(8.1rpg), 1.2apg, FGP: 64.0%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 74.0%. He started his basketball career at Washburn (NCAA2). In 2011-2012, he was a rookie and played for  BG Topstar Leitershofen/Stadtbergen (Germany-ProA, starting five): 11 games: 16.1ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 68.1%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 76.8%, left in Dec.’11, in Jan.’12 moved to WBC Raiffeisen Wels (Austria-A Bundesliga): 16 games: 4.2ppg, 2.3rpg.He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

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

I am now in Germany! I have been here a week and happy to be here. Its has been a great summer. I did some traveling with my wife, saw a lot of family, and my wife and I will be expecting our first child in the spring. So all in all a great summer.

The last time we spoke, you were in Sweden before going to Bulgaria. Please describe your experience last season playing in Sweden and then going to Bulgaria? I guess it was an important learning experience for you?

Sweden is a beautiful country, and I enjoyed the people I met there. Sweden is a fast paced league with some good talet. One thing I will always remember about Sweden is how quickly it got cold and dark. When I moved to Bulgaria I really enjoyed the sunlight lol. Bulgaria is a league with some very good teams and strong physical players. I really like having the opportunity to play in two different leagues while in Bulgaria.

After a superb second professional season with ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (Germany-ProA): 28 games: Score-1(20.1ppg), Reb-5(8.1rpg), 1.2apg, FGP: 64.0%,you went to Sweden early in the transfer process. When looking back do you believe you signed to early even if the offer was to good to pass up?

Its really hard to predict the off season market so when Sweden came with high interest and a serious offer, it made sense to take it. They met all my needs and thats all a player can ask for. I choose not to look back and say “what if” instead I focus on the future and what I can control.

Now you are back in Germany and will play for New Pro A team Baunach. What were the main reasons for coming back to Germany?

I really love Germany. I like it here, my wife likes it here. It is a great stable country to live and play basketball in. We are very excited to be a part of all the basketball tradition around Bamberg, and to be involved with the organizations here.

How excited are you to be able to practice with Beko BBL powerhouse Bamberg? Could this be your biggest highlight in your professional basketball career? Just having the chance to show your talent against the best should make you feel very content.

It is a great opportunity and experience to practice with some of the best coaches and players in Europe. Its very humbling. I have much to learn from all of them. Every day so far, I have been pushed and challenged to get better and learn more about the game. What else could a player ask for

 

You will be joining a very young team with Baunach. Are you already prepared to be a leader as you will be a player with the most experience?

Yes, this is a very young team if you look at their age but many of them have much experience playing basketball. They are all motivated and hard workers. I am prepared to lead as well as learn from them too.

The Pro A is getting more and more competitive each season and it should be the same this season. You will have to score much and rebound like you did in Essen, but possibly even more. Knowing that you have to be consistent always put even more pressure on you than in past experiences with teams?

The only pressure I feel is to win games, and we all know just one player can’t do that. It is a team thing. Although my scoring has shined in the Pro A in the past, my main focus will be on making the team better anyway I can with the ultimate goal in mind of winning each game.

After playing in Sweden and Bulgaria last season, where have you improved your game most since your last game in Germany with Essen?

I keep on working on my 3 point shot and my outside game. The more options you have as a player the deadlier you can be.

How does a typical summer workout day look like for Logan Stutz in 2014?

This summer was the craziest summer I have had in my career. I was only home for a few weeks after all my travels, but usually looks like pick up games in the morning then weights after that with a personal trainer. Then in the evening getting shots up or running outside.

With Lebron heading back to the Cavs and so many young players aboard, where do you see the journey for them ending this season in the NBA?

I see them at least making the finals and most likely bringing home the ring as long as they are healthy.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

TMNT

 

Thanks Logan for the chat.

Ian Carter is a 21 year old 198cm forward from Ft. Smith, Arkansas that was going to start his professional basketball career in Germany with Dragons Rhoendorf (Germany-ProB), but he failed the medical test yesterday and wont be wearing their jersey. He played at Drury (NCAA2) playing there from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 32 games: 9.8ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.6apg, 1.1spg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 46.5%, FT: 54.4%; 9.8ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.6apg, FG% 46.5, FT% 54.4. he won the NCAA2 title in 2013. German Hoops had the chance to talk with him this past summer before he came to Germany to play for Rhondorf.

 

 

Where are you at and how has your summer been?

 Right now I’m in Springfield, Missouri. I just got back here from Atlanta, Georgia. My summer has been great so far. I’ve just been working out and spending time with family/friends. I would say that my summer has been made since I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to continue my basketball career. That was my main goal after I graduated from Drury University in May 2014. Also, my birthday is this month so I’m pretty excited about that as well!

You just signed your first professional contract with German Pro B team Rhöndorf Dragons. How excited are you about coming to Germany?

 I’m very excited about coming to Germany! I’ve only been out of the country once and I was too young to remember. I’m eager to see what life is like outside of the United States and being able to play the game I love while experiencing a new lifestyle makes it even more awesome.

You will be the second player from Drury (NCAA2) to play in Germany after Brandon Kimbrough. What do you know about the country Germany and basketball? Do you know any players playing there?

I don’t know too much about Germany or basketball over there to be honest. Coach Kimbrough has told me that he had a great time playing basketball over there and told me that I will love it. I’m taking his word for it and expecting great things when I’m over there. I don’t know of any players over there right now

Did you have offers other than the Dragons Rhondorf? What were the main reasons for coming to Rhondorf?

 Yes. I had a few other teams interested in me. I chose to be a dragon because I felt it was the best opportunity for me. Coach Kaminski and I both want the same goals for the program which I believe is important.

Your new coach Boris Kaminski is a very experienced coach in Germany. Did you have contact to him already? What was your early impression of him?

No I didn’t have contact to him already. He found me through my agency at Worldwide Career Management. I got a solid impression from him the first time. I can tell that he cares about our program, his players, and basketball in general. A lot of coaches come off as just being a coach because it’s what provides for their family. But Coach Kaminski is very sincere and dedicated to the game which made me want to be a part of the team even more.

You had a very solid four year career at Drury (NCAA2) now you will play in the third league in Germany. Has been proving yourself on the court been a normal occurrence for you in your basketball career?

 It has definitely been a normal occurrence for a few reasons. One is that I never won a title in high school. When my name was mentioned up until we won the National Championship, winning was never next to it. I felt it was important to become a winner in the game of basketball and of course I didn’t win that National Championship by myself, but I was a key part of our team’s success. Another reason is me being an undersized post man in our league. Most of the teams we played had gigantic centers and I felt like a lot of them didn’t respect me because normally I would be a 3-4 man at any other school. I had to learn how to use my strengths, such as quickness and athleticism to make up for being a lot smaller than my opponents. I take great pride in knowing I was able to compete still.

You are only 198cm, but you’re a very skilled shot blocker. Who has always been your NBA defensive role model and where do you get your defensive skills from?

I guess I haven’t really thought about who my NBA defensive role model would be. There are a few players I always watched on defense growing up like Kobe of course, Michael Jordan, Dikembe Mutumbo, David Robinson, and Alonzo Mourning. If I had to pick my favorite to watch it would probably be someone like Dennis Rodman or Gary Payton. I’ve always been good at blocking shots ever since I started playing really. That was the one thing I could do better than anything because I was taller than everyone else.

You can do so much and when you were a sophomore, you hauled down 11 rebounds twice against William Jewel and dished out eight assists against William Jewel. Looking at all your abilities, what would you say is a hidden strength in your game that doesn’t get noticed right away?

 I would say passing is my hidden strength. I love to pass and get assists! I think its part of being a good teammate and allows me to be a player that people want to have on their team.

What was your fondest memory from the 2012-2013 Drury NCAA Division 2 championship run?

My fondest memory from the championship run was probably the actual game itself. We were down by 17 in the first half. I remember looking at Brandon Lockhart and him asking me am I going to play. That fired me up because he’s usually a pretty quiet dude on the court. For us to just come together as a team and win was insane. I remember some friends of mine telling me that they thought we were finished in the first half. Our fans were awesome too. A lot of them traveled all the way down to Atlanta and were definitely key to us coming back as well.

Drury head coach Steve Hesser coached you for four years. What one experience will you never forget where he really helped your game and will help you as a professional?

The one experience that I will never forget from Coach Hesser is him teaching me to be coachable and to be a man. Not just with basketball either, but with life as well. He was like my dad away from home from the time I was a 17 year old freshman until I graduated. I learned so much from him about the game of basketball and I could never ask for a better college coach.

You finished Drury as the all-time shot blocker with 124. When you look back at all 124 blocks, which one will you never forget? There are two I will never forget.

 The one when I broke the record and the one to win the National Championship game.

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

 I usually workout at 9 a.m. until about 11:30 a.m. six days a week. Then I lift three days a week and shoot 3 days a week in the evening.

Your favorite player is Kobe Bryant. Do you think LeBron James will win more NBA rings at the end of his career?

 Kobe is my favorite player so I have to say no regardless. But I definitely think LeBron is capable.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 I’ve been watching Orange is the New Black on Netflix recently.

Thanks Ian for the chat.

 

 

Tyrus Mcghee is a 23 year old 188cm guard from Stringtown, Oklahoma that will be playing his second professional season and first in Germany with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Last season as a rookie he played for  Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (Spain-LEB Gold) playing 32 games: 13.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 86.7%. He recently played NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas (Golden State Warriors): 2 games: 6.0ppg, FGP: 40%, 3PT: 33.3%. He started his absketball career at Iowa State(NCAA) an das a senior played  35 games: 13.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 46.4%, FT: 82.0%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

Tyrus thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

 

I am in Germany Playing in the BBL league for Eisbaren Bremerhaven. My summer went well got to see family and friends.

You recently played NBA Summer League for the Golden State Warriors in Las Vegas playing in two games. What kind of experience was this for you on and off the court?

The summer League was a great experience for me it was my first time. I learned A lot during the two weeks I was there. I’m looking forward to be playing in it again next year

There were so many well known people at the venue. What was the coolist experience that you had in your week in Las Vegas that you will never forget?

I wont forget the players that I got to play with and meeting new people as well

You recently signed with German Beko BBL team Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. What sold you on playing your second professional season in Germany?

I was told it was a good league and that it might take me a couple of years to play in the league,but I happen to sign with Eisbaren after my first year playing professional basketball in Lugo,Spain

What do you know about the country Germany and basketball? I know your ex teammate Will Clyburn played in Ulm. Are there any other players that you know that have played in Germany?

I really dont know to much about Germany,but im willing to grasp as much as I can while im here. Yeah Will was my old teammate that I played with in college

Last season you played for Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (Spain-LEB Gold) playing 32 games: 13.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 86.7%. This league is very strong and in comparison equal or even better to many other first divisions in other countries. In what areas of your game were you able to improve most in as a rookie?

I think my areas I improved in was playing point guard position.

You came from Junior college to Iowa State. What was your wake up call in the NCAA where you knew that you had arrived at the NBA of the college league?

Juco prepared for the NCAA and the NCAA prepared me for the NBA

At Iowa State you were known as the sixth man. You averaged 7,7ppg as a junior and 13,1ppg in this role. Is this the role that Fred Hoiberg envisioned you to have or did you grow into rapidly from the start?

No this was not the role he advised me, becuase he recruited me as a point guard out of junior college then he realized that I was a scoring 2 and he needed me to come off the bench to score the ball, I took that role n it stuck with me my two years there.

Having had this two year experience as sixth man in the NCAA, if you had to pick an NBA player sixth man that you respect most who would you chose and why?

Jamar Crawford he plays hard and when he touches the floor he’s all about business and that’s what I am about once I touch the floor!

Your ex teammate Wil Clyburn had a very solid rookie season in Germany. What is your most memorable moment with him on and off the court at Iowa State?

Just playing with Will was memories for me and it was me and his last year playing together in college and we had a real good season together and we made a lot of noise for Iowa State while we were there

You hit for 22 points on 6/10 shooting from outside against Kansas and Ben Mclemore. Is this a game that you will forever remember from your college days?

I think the game against Oklahoma State my junior year was for me.  I stole the ball went down hit a 3 two tie the game and next positionIi made Oklahoma State turn the ball over and the senior on our team hit a buzzer beater to win the game

In your two seasons at Iowa State, what was the most important thing that head coach Fred Hoiberg gave you that got you ready for a professional basketball career?

Coach Fred would always tell me to rise up with a lot of confidence and shoot the ball. He knew I was a good shooter and he always gave me the green light! And too always be me because I had character.

How does a typical summer work out day look like for Tyrus MCghee in the summer of 2014?

Put in work until its time to go to sleep

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

He got game.

 

Thanks Tyrus for the chat.