Author: Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Basketball journalist and play by play commentator

Danilo Barthel Gives Boston Celtic Marcus Smart A White Men Can Jump Introduction At His NBA Summer League Debut In Orlando

Around this time last year, Fraport Skyliner Danilo Barthel could have been taking part at his first German national team training camp at Kienbaum at the city limits of Berlin, but instead was quietly and as always 100% focused working diligently in humid uncomfortable gyms on getting totally healthy again as he had experienced extreme back problems towards the end of the 2012-2013 BBL season. If someone had whispered to him last summer that he would be playing in front of the eyes of Michigan legend Juwan Howard and Boston Celtic general manager and member of the historic 80s Celtic teams Danny Ainge , the decent and conservative German  probably would have told you to jump into the Neckar river flowing by his native city Heidelberg to cool off and get some common sense. However a year later on July 5th, 2014, Danilo Barthel made his NBA debut against the Boston Celtics even if it was only an NBA Summer League game. The basketball life of the 22 year old 207cm forward from the Fraport Skyliners has had a massive turn up the basketball scale in the last year. The only thing missing from a high striker commonly seen at a carnival and to have the bell at the top be rung would have been if the Fraport Skyliners had at least reached the playoffs, but injuries and not winning crunch time games disallowed the 2004 Beko BBL champion to reaching the promised land again since their last visit in 2011. However other than that, it was an amazing year for Danilo Barthel who went from 2012-2013 stats of  4.3ppg, 2.9rpg to stats of 11.3ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 78.4% in 34 games in 2013-2014. Barthel had to take responsibility last season and did scoring in double figures in 21 games including a 25 point outburst in a biter 82-81 loss in Braunschweig. Barthel was a common fixture in the starting five of head coach Gordon Herbert and his season wasn´t a fluke as he was rewarded with Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Most Improved Player,  Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Honorable Mention and Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Domestic Players Team. If his extra ordinary good season warranted an automatic invitation to the NBA Summer League is hard to comment since there were a few other young Germans who also had good seasons like Daniel Theis and Elias Harris who also were invited. A main reason for Barthel being able to nip at NBA air is through the excellent work of scorers 1st Sportmangement for letting their contact prowess go to work. Not every player can go this luxury route as ex Tuebingen Tiger Michael Jenkins explains who played in Italy last season. “I’m not sure how it worked for everyone else, but for me I had to work my way onto this squad. I got invited to a 3 day free agent mini-camp the beginning of June. I played well enough there to get an invite to play in Orlando for the Brooklyn Nets

Instead of being in Berlin this July 4th weekend with his teammate Konstantin Klein and the German national team getting ready for 2014 European qualification games, he was in Orlando, Florida getting ready to take part in the 2014 Summer League with the Miami Heat that will also take him to Las Vegas after. If Barthel was able to catch some of the July 4th fire works at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando is unknown since he had to be ready for his NBA summer league debut on Saturday at 11am probably the earliest he had played a game since possibly youth basketball. Barthel had arrived in Miami a few days earlier and had the chance to practice with his temporary new teammates. Perhaps Barthel could of asked his friend Niels Giffey some advice on how to slow down a Shabazz Napier driving into the lane once he had beaten his man. Napier is the headlining name for the Miami Heat as he enters the NBA with two NCAA rings with UCONN and for the Boston Celtics it is Marcus Smart. The 2014 Miami Heat Summer League team is younger than most teams as there are guys like 2013 Atlanta Hawks draft pick James Ennis that looks like a young Patrick Flomo, Andre Dawkins from Duke or Tyler Honeycutt from UCLA. In his first NBA Summer League game, Barthel had very nameable young opponents like the two Boston Celtic 2014 first round draft picks Marcus Smart and James Young as well as guys like Chris Babb and Phil Pressey with NBA experience with the Boston Celtics. The most known player on the court was 2013 Boston Celtic first round draft pick Kelly Olynyk who was a freshman together with Bamberg forward Elias Harris at Gonzaga in 2009 is impossible not to notice on the court with his long blond hair and black head band and with his hair dyed black could have passed for ex Barthel teammate Dane Watts when observing him from behind on the fast break. Barthel wasn´t the only international player on the floor as the global flair was present with Dairis Bertans from Latvia and Nobel Boungou-Colo from the republic of the Congo.

Barthel made his 2014 NBA Summer League debut at the Orlando Magic training facility within the Amway center. It was the first game and with each team only having been together a few days, one couldn´t really expect much. Barthel entered the game for the first time near the end of the first quarter wearing #54 and sporting a full, but trim beard. One could sense quickly that the German wasn´t the main or second or even third scoring option in the Miami Heat offense, but what do you expect when you have the future of the Miami Heat Shabazz Napier running the offense. Barthel showed his proper team play qualities something he has shown in Frankfurt the last three years. On offense he did a good job moving without the ball, setting picks, grabbing key rebounds and finding the better positioned man. His first big play wasn´t a dunk or shot, but a mega block on Marcus Smart. This was possibly the first moment where assistant for player development for the Miami Heat Juwan Howard must of noticed that there are white men that can jump. In the NBA Summer League players obviously also want to display their individual skills and Barthel couldn´t hold back as he drove to the hoop as well, but put up an air ball in the second quarter. After hardly playing in the second quarter, the German returned in the third quarter and played more than half of the quarter and hit his first field goal in the NBA Summer League hitting a high rainbow from behind the top of the key something he does with regularity in the Beko BBL. An inspiring thing to see was that he didn´t hesitate from firing as he did every so often last season with the Fraport Skyliners, but shot upon arrival something he may have taken from the game of ex NBA player sniper Andrew Rautins who could hit from any corner of the building and who played four months with the German last season before getting injured. Barthel also missed a few more shots that quarter He came in in the last minute of the fourth quarter where the game was as good as decided. One noticed that Barthel got no post up assignments, but was mostly hovering around the three point line. There were also at times where he just didn´t get the ball at all in the offensive sets. The Summer League is a short period, so the German won´t have much time to get more noticed with stellar play, but it would be nice if he could get more involved in the offense. Barthel finished the game with three points, six rebounds, one steal and one block and 1/6 shooting in 13 minutes. It was a solid debut for the Heidelberg native and one thing is for sure, he can definitely compete with these aspiring NBA hopefuls. Barthel gets his next chance on Sunday when he will play against the Brooklyn Nets and guys like Mason Plumlee, Dajuan Summers, Marquis Teague and Donte Greene.

 

Michael Jenkins (This Summer I Want To Continue To Keep My Agility, Explosiveness, And Athleticism At A High Level As I Continue To Get Older)

Michael Jenkins is a 27 year old 192 cm guard from Kinston, North Carolina that currently finished his first season for Pallacanestro Cantu (Italy-SerieA) where he played  33 games: 10.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 87.5%; Eurocup: 16 games: 11.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 39.2%, 3PT: 45.1%, FT: 63.6%. He played at Winthrop(NCAA) from 2004-2008. He didn´t play as much his first two seasons, but got increased playing time in his junior and senior years. As a junior, he averaged 14.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PTConf-1(41.5%), FT: 70.2% in 34 games. In his senior year, he played 34 games and averaged 13.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PTConf-6(36.8%), FT: 71.3%: and finished his career as the 10th leading scorer in Winthrop history with 1,253 points. With Winthrop, he was the Big South Conf. Regular Season Champion in 2005, 2006 and 2007 and won the Big South Conf Tournament from 2005-2008. He was named to the Big South Conf. All-Tournament Team in 2007 and 2008. In his first professional season 2008-2009, he was drafted by the Albany Patrons of the CBA and in November 2008 signed with the Albany Patroons playing 3 games and averaging 6.7ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 47.4%,  but left during the season and moved to BC Buducnost Podgorica (Bosnia-1A) . In the 2009-2010 season he came to Germany and played for the Walter Tigers Tuebingen.  In the 2010-2011 season he played for Belgacom Liege Basket (Belgium-D1) playing EuroCup Qualifying Round: 2 games: 11.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg; EuroChallenge: 6 games: 12.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 40.7%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 84.6%; Belgian League: 13 games: 12.6ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.5apg, Steals-1(2.8spg), FGP: 43.8%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 78.3%. In the 2011-2012 he played for Optima Gent (Belgium-D1) playing  29 games: 13.0ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.6%. In the 2012-2013 season he played for Centrale del Latte Brescia (Italy-Lega2): 38 games: 17.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 79.6%. He will play NBA Summer League and spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Michael thanks for talking to German Hoops.  You just finished your second season in Italy and first with  Pallacanestro Cantu (Italy-SerieA). The club was swept 3-0 by Virtus Rome, but the series was so close. You lost only by a combined total of 10 points. How long did it take you to digest these series loss?

It took a little time, but I couldn’t dwell on it too long because I had to shift my focus to what was next for me.

What was the difference in this series? Rome outrebounded Cantu in all three games and perhaps had a better sharing of the ball which resulted in many guys scoring in double figures.

Rome just played tougher and better overall as a team than we did.

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Carlos Medlock(s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg) I Feel The BBL Will Always Be There And I Know I Can Play In That League

 

Carlos Medlock is a 27 year old 183cm point guard from Detroit, Michigan that recently completed the season with the Crailsheim Merlins. He started his basketball career at Eastern Michigan. In 2010-2011 as a rookie he played for Utah Flash (D-League): 3 games: 4.3ppg, 1.3rpg, left in Nov.’10, in Feb.’11 moved to Guildford Heat (United Kingdom-BBL, starting five): 17 games: 14.9ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-4(4.6apg), 1.7spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 64.1%. In 2012-2013, he got experience playing for U.M.F. Skallagrimur Borganes (Iceland-Dominos League), then moved to Club Deportes Las Animas (Chile-Liga Nacional), then signed at U.M.F. Skallagrimur Borganes (Iceland-Dominos League, starting five): 24 games: Score-2(27.2ppg), 4.4rpg, 4.8apg, Steals-5(2.3spg), FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 78.9%. Last season with Crailsheim, he played 37 games: 17.3ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 82.2%. He reached the 2014 Pro A final and achieved Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro A 2nd Team -14. This upcoming season, he will play for the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg in the Pro A. He took some time to talk to German Hoops.com.

 
Carlos, thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how are you enjoying your summer?

 I’m in Detroit, Enjoying every moment of my summer.

You led Crailsheim into the Pro A final, but BG Goettingen was able to win the Pro A title. Crailsheim win a tight first game, but lost by 14 points in the second game. How disappointed were you about the outcome of the series?

 Very disappointed, Anytime you make it that far you want to win it all.

If you look back at that short series, what was missing for Crailsheim to get over the hump and get by BG Goettingen?

I think if we could have capitalized on our chance to make a run like we did at home maybe it would’ve been different. But hats off to Goettingen they got the title.

How important was getting American Frankie Sullivan in the middle of the season? Would Crailsheim have reached the final without him?

 

Frankie was very important he brought lots of energy off the bench. Made a lot of big shots and plays for us he was definitely one of the reasons why he reached the finals.

Was there any chance that you might have stayed in Crailsheim? What were the main reasons for going to Wurzburg?

 Of course it was a chance, I wanted to stay in Crailsheim. I just felt Wurzburg was a better choice for me and my family.

You were one of the top guards in the German PRO A. I am sure you must have had some offers from Beko BBL teams. Why did you remain in the German Pro A and not possibly take the next step to the Beko BBL?

 Just knowing Wurzburg was a good situation for me. I Feel the BBL will always be there and I know I can play in that league. When the best opportunity comes I will be playing in that league.

What was your Crailsheim season personal highlight? Possibly your 39 points against Science City Jena? Did you see yourself in the zone early in that game?

 My personal best 20pt 9ast 0 turnovers against Magdeburg. I hate having turnovers especially bad ones. The game against Jena I did go into a zone but I was just trying to do what ever I could to help my team win.

How much fun and a challenge was it playing against Ahmad Smith in the playoffs? Does he deserve a trip to the Beko BBL? What do you like most about his game?

Yeah I liked playing against Smith he’s a big pg. I don’t think his team would’ve made it to the playoffs without him. I think he deserves a chance to play in BBL. I think all the top players in Pro A deserve chances to play in BBL)

You had a very good career at Eastern Michigan. How disappointed were you that you were somewhat off the radar? You had to fight yourself through your career playing in lesser leagues like Iceland and England? It seems like you have always had to prove yourself in your career. What has been your motivation to keep pushing and be where you are today?

 Yeah it’s been that way for me my whole life. Wish it could’ve been easy like the so called big name players. But it just helps me appreciate the grind of basketball more. My motivation that keesp me pushing is my kids and keep proving people wrong.

You played at eastern Michigan with ex Beko BBL player John Bowler. What were you able to learn from him as a young player?

I loved playing with Bowler hard working player and showed me how to lead by example.

How does a normal summer work out day look like for Carlos Medlock ón and off the court?

 Workout in the morning around 11am at Eastern Michigan for a couple of hours than go hoop that evening around 7. Off the court spending time with my wife and kids and trying to eat right.

What players will you be working out with this summer in Detroit? Have you ever bumped into guys like Rickey Paulding or Dashaun Wood over the summer?

 I workout with a lot of guys doing the summer its a long list of names from NBA, overseas, to college players. Mainly the best players in Detroit. I have bumped into Dashaun before but never Rickey Paulding I know of them both but not as friends. Played against Dashaun in high school.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 More Than A Game

Thanks Carlos for the chat.

 

Patrick Richard(Mitteldeutscher BC) I Like The Philosophy Of Silvano Poropat And The Way He Would Like The Game Played

Patrick Richard is a 24 year old 196cm swingman from Carencro, Louisania that will play his first season in the Beko BBL fort he Mitteldeutscher BC. He played four years at  Mc Neese St. (NCAA) and as a senior played 32 games: 18.1ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 27.9%, FT: 76.9%. In 2012-2013, he started his professional basketball career being drafted by the  Iowa Energy (D-League) and played at Sandringham Sabres (Australia-SEABL-East, starting five): 24 games: 18.5ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.1apg, 2FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 80.7%. Last season he played in Holland for  Matrixx Magixx Wijchen (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five): 38 games: Score-4(15.3ppg), 4.9rpg, 2.7apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 78.9%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

Patrick how are you? Where are you at the moment and how have you been enjoying your summer?

Hi I am great! I am currently in Carencro Louisiana which is my hometown but will be heading to Houston Texas to further my offseason training. I have been enjoying my summer by spending time with my family and girlfriend and also training

After getting experience in Australia, you made the jump to Europe and played in Holland for Matrixx Magixx Wijchen (Holland-Eredivisie) From your stats one could see that you needed little adjustment. What was the biggest hurdle for you to get used to in the European style?

The biggest hurdle to adjust to was maybe certain moves I once did were not allowed in Europe but everything else was actually a very easy transition

Matrixx Magixx Wijchen (Holland-Eredivisie) got swept in the Dutch playoffs by Den Helder. What was missing for the team to have gotten past them to the next round?

I think the reason we could not defeat Den Helder was all based on matchups.They were loaded with shooters at pretty much every position and it was tough to guard them as a team for 40 minutes

You scored in double figures 29 times displaying consistency last season. What was your season personal highlight? Possibly your 32 point game against later champion Groningen?

My personal highlight was probably that same game even though we did not win. I am so much all about winning that I wouldn’t call a loss a highlight though.

Now you have made the jump to the next level the Beko BBL and MItteldeutscher BC. Head coach Silvano Poropat said he was impressed by you in your talks. What sold you on wanting to further your basketball career in WEissenfels?

What sold me on wanting to play for MBC was of course the immediate interest they had in me following the season ending. Also I noticed the fan support and how respected the BBL league is. I feel it’s a great step forward for me personally. Talking to the coach also sold me on it as well because from the talks I like his philosophy and the way he would like the game played.

Weissenfels isn´t a big city, but moreover a town, but still six times greater in population than your hometown Carencro. Is it that small town feeling that you wanted to have again when making the decision to come to MBC as well?

The small town feel wasn’t a deciding factor but now that I am heading there it will be an easy adjustment for me since I am from a pretty small town in Louisiana

From videos one can see that you can shoot, run the floor and rebound. What is a hiden strength that doesn´t get noticed right away?

A hidden strength is probably my vision on the court and passing. And also I can slash to the goal as well

You played at Mcneese State from 2008-2012. 10 years earlier a former Beko BBL player Demond Mallett played there. Do you remember hearing any amazing stories about him when he played there?

I don’t know Demond personally but I do know he is a heck of a player that has proven himself at every level he has played on. I respect that even though I don’t know him personally

Who was the best player that you played against in the NCAA that may be in the NBA now or in Europe?

While in college I played against a lot of great players like Marcus Thornton and Isaiah Thomas come to mind. Both were really tough.

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

A summer day and workout for me consist of weights in the morning and cardio then straight to the basketball court to work on my game.  A break for lunch then back to the gym again later in the evening.

Could one say that you are the second most known athlete to come out of Carencro after former Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots Kevin Falk? Have you ever met him back home?

Yes one can say that and I know Kevin very well. We speak often and he is a legend here. I’ve been knowing him since I was a young kid.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD movie I’ve watched was the movie NON-STOP.

Thanks Patrick for the chat.

 

 

Jarrell Crayton(EBC Rostock Seawolves) . I Don’t Want To Have Any Regrets In Life So I’m Willing To Do Whatever It Takes To Get The Job Done

Jarrell Crayton is a 23 year old 200cm forward from Omaha, Nebraska that will be playing his first season in Germany for EBC Rostock Seawolves (Germany-ProB). Last season he played for Thor AK (Iceland-D1) playing 20 games: 20.9ppg, Reb-2(12.2rpg), 2.1apg, 2.5spg. Before turning professional, he played for Boise St. (NCAA) and in his senior year played for  Montana St. – Billings (NCAA2) playing 30 games: 16.3ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.5spg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 57.0%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

Jarrell, thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment an dhow is your summer going?

Summers going good. Right now I’m doing a little training up in Sheridan Wyoming.

You recently signed for new German Pro B team EBC Rostock Seawolves (Germany-ProB). How thrilled are you to be able to play your first season in Germany?

I’m excited to be coming over to Germany. Heard good competition over there is tough. Ready for the challenge.

What were the most important reasons for coming to play for German coach Sebastian Wild? Did you have talks with him? If yes what was your early impression of him?

Reason that I’d like to play for coach Wild is that he has coached at the college level & after talking to him he runs his practices like a college program. That is important to me because I want to get better. college practices are intense & you can’t take a single day off. They not only make you a better player but when the lights come on the game is way easier than a practice. My early impression of coach Wild was that off the court he’s a chill dude, he’s got certain expectation for his  players & the team must uphold, also he’s seems like a players coach, but when you step foot on that court he becomes intense & pushes his players to in order to bring the best out in them.

How important was it for you to sign early? Now you can enjoy your summer as well as keep in shape and get ready for your new home in Germany.

Yea it’s stressful playing the waiting game but signing early wasn’t important. Finding a program that’s the right fit was key. You want to go somewhere that you know you’ll be in a good situation.

What do you know about German basketball and do you have any friends or teammates playing in Germany?

I don’t really know that much about the basketball in Germany but I do have a a former friend/teammate that’s playing for a pro A team in Germany & another that may be signing to a team over there.

Last season you played for Thor AK (Iceland-D1) playing 20 games: 20.9ppg, Reb-2(12.2rpg), 2.1apg, 2.5spg. Was it a big adjustment coming from NCAA2 and playing in the second division in Iceland?

No it’s wasn’t a big adjustment, in the off season your supposed to spend countless hours in the gym working on your craft. To in order to get ready for the up coming season. All that hard payed off in the end.

You really dominated the second league in Iceland. You were the only American on a team mostly of guys from Iceland. How important was it as a rookie for you to slip into the role as leader and go to guy?

Wasn’t that important to be either of those things. You’ve got to earn those position that are not just given to you. My main focus was handle business, & as the season progressed those things came with time.

You are a 200cm forward that can score and rebound. What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

My mental aspect to how I approach the game. I know there will always be someone that’s better than me but I tell myself I’m the best player on the court & no one can mess with me. No one is going to out work or out hustle me and if we lose it’s not going to be because of me I gave it my all.

As a senior you played at Montana St. – Billings (NCAA2) playing 30 games: 16.3ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.5spg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 57.0%. What was the most important thing that you learned from head coach Jamaie Stevens that has prepared you for a professional career? He seemed to motivate you the right way after your disappointing season at Boise State?

Most important thing go somewhere that’s a good fit & you’ll be happy. Happiness is essential in anything you want to do in life.

You scored 51 points as a senior at Belleve high school as was the first player in nearly three decades to do it in the state of Nebraska. Has it been difficult being a top player from Nebraska, having a strong senior season at Montana State having to prove yourself in Iceland and now in a lower league in Germany with Rostock?

Yes it’s been difficult but my former coach Steve Smiley would always drop this line to us pain of regret pain of discipline. I don’t want to have any regrets in life so I’m willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done.

You now have a long summer to keep working on your game. How does a normal workout day look like for you on and off the court?

A normal day for me is wake up around 8ish make some breakfast & get my mind right for the day head to the gym around noon get a lift some cardio & end with some swimming. After the gym take a little drive to a nice little quite spot to enjoy nature & read for a bit. After that get some subway head home & take a nap. After I wake up gather myself for about 45 minutes then it’s back to the gym for a basketball workout. Come home eat something, wait for my best friend to gets off work then will play 2k till about midnight. Sleep then do it all over again the next day.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Last movie I saw was X-men days of futures past.

Thanks Jarrell for the chat.

 

Andre Marhold (Gießen 46ers) My Guard Abilities Is my Hidden Strength

Andre Marhold is a 23 year old 198cm forward that will be playing his second professional season and first in Germany for the Giessen 46ers. Last season he played for Chin Min Dragons UBC St. Polten (Austria-A Bundesliga): 7 games: 13.3ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 66.7%, FT: 63.6%. He played at Duquesne (NCAA) and as a senior played  28 games: 6.1ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.6bpg, FGP: 52.9%, FT: 37.5%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

Andre how are you? Where are you at the moment and how have you been enjoying your summer?

I’m great, I am currently in Pittsburgh pa training with the “The Scoring Factory” everyday, preparing myself to have a great season next year is my main focus right now.

Last season as a rookie, you didn´t get a team until February 2014 and now in your second season, you have signed early with Giessen. Will it be easier to enjoy your summer now knowing you have a job?

It was a huge relief to sign early but, that’s just half the job. This opportunity made me want to work even harder this summer.

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Vincent Bailey (SC Rasta Vechta)Size Doesn’t Matter To Me, Its Whoever Wants It The Most And I Want Every Rebound I Can Get My Hands On

Vincent Bailey is a 22 year old 201cm forward that will begin his professional basketball career in Germany with Pro A club SC Rasta Vechta. H eplayed at  Lincoln Memorial (NCAA2) from 2001-2014 and as a senior averaged 21,6ppg and 9,8rpg. He won the SAC Tournament in 2011 and 2014. He talked to German Hoops about basketball.

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

Right now I’m in Atlanta,Ga. Getting prepared for the upcoming season with Rasta. My summer has been great just been working out to stay on top of my game.

Any player coming from college especially from Div2 can be more than thrilled getting a professional basketball job so quickly. How blessed are you that you have landed a job with German Pro A team SC Rasta Vechta?

Being Div 2 I’m sure people have there doubt’s about me. But I’ve been doubted all my life and I am very blessed to have this opportunity to show what I am capable of. I am very motivated to be on top of my game and can’t wait to start with Rasta Vachta this upcoming season.

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The Key To Basketball Success On The Court With Greek Coach George Filkinis

George Filkinis is a Greek basketball coach with over 30 years of experience. He has won 11 titles as a head coach and 6 as an assistant coach. He has coached teams like Marousi, Asteras BC, AO Arion,  Irakleion, AO Sporting, Achilles  Cyprus, Panathinaikos Cyprus, and AO Lamias.  He has coached 680 official games  and his record is 477 ( 70,15%) wins and 203 (20,85%). He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Thank you coach for talking to German Hoops again . I’ld like to ask you were you’ll work this season .

 It’s my pleasure dear Miles to talk again to my German basketball friends via your site . Up to now I haven’t agreed with some team . I had some contacts but finally no agreement was reached .

Can you give a possible explanation to this fact ?

 Gladly.  First of all I wanted to work in specific countries , which the teams and the leagues I know very well , as I watch them closely more than 10 years. Certainly I knew from the beginning , that some of my principles and rules as a man and as a coach and the way I play the game , will be extremely difficult to become accepted. But I got the decision to make a try as I think that I have too much to give to the team that will trust me. As I said many times , my results and my rates are my only weapon and my only credentials.Certainly at the five countries I addressed specifically there is a logic of “persons recycling” , as every year the same coaches are transferred” from one group to another , even if their results the last season were not good at all in accordance with the players they had in their hands and with the ambitions of their teams.Of course this phenomenon is inexplicable to me , but totally respected by my side , as you can not force anyone to work with you , if he doesn’t like you or if he doesn’t like to see his team better. Then , because I play the game a little differently , I claimed to choose the players that they are able to play like my way and not to accept those that the team managers of some teams wanted.Another reason was that I want to represent myself and to talk personally with the groups , contrary to the most coaches who supported by “strong” agents.

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Lorenzo Williams (Eisbaeren Bremerhaven) Bremerhaven Has A History Of Top Point Guards So I Know I Have Big Shoes To Fill But I’m Ready For The Challenge

Lorenzo Williams is a 29 year old 191cm point guard that will be playing his second season in the BEKO BBL with Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. He was born in Arkansas, but grew up in Texas. He played at Rice University from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 29 games averaging 9.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 5.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3Pts: 34.6%, FT: 71.4%. He was drafted by the Anaheim Arsenal in 2007, but decided to come to Europe and played in Germany for BC Groer Recycling Weissenhorn, but left during the season, in March 2008 and moved to Skanska Pezinok (Slovakia-Extraliga). In 2008-2009, he played in Slovakia for AB Cosmetics Pezinok playing 28 games: Score-2(20.8ppg), 3.2rpg, Assists-2(5.8apg), 1.8spg, 2FGP: 62.3%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 83.9%. In the 2009-2010 season, he came to Germany and played for the Giessen 46ers playing  25 games: 11.4ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.6apg, FGP: 58.7%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 67.2%. In the 2010-2011 season he played for Zalakeramia-ZTE KK (Hungary-A Division, starting five): 19 games: 15.6ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-1(7.3apg), 2.5spg, FGP: 65.2%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 70.4%, in Feb.’11 moved to Khimik-OPZ Yuzny (Ukraine-Superleague, starting five): 15 games: 9.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 24.3%, FT: 87.5%. He then played two seasons for  Atomeromu SE Paks (Hungary-A Division). Last season he played for BK Ventspils (Latvia-LBL) winning the league championship playing  24 games: 11.6ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 82.4%; EuroChallenge: 11 games: 10.4ppg, 3.1rpg, 4.4apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 22.6%, FT: 73.0%; Baltic League: 16 games: 9.8ppg, 3.4rpg, Assists-4(4.4apg), 1.3spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 72.7% He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Lorenzo thanks for talking to German Hoops. Welcome back to Germany. After four years away you are back in the Beko BBL. You played three seasons in Hungary and one in Latvia. From a basketball stand point has time flown by?

Time has flown by pretty quickly. I still feel like a young guy but,A lot has changed with my game since I was in Giessen.

You were a young buck coming to Giessen in 2009 at age 24. Since then you have gathered further basketball experience won a title, assist crown and played Eurochallenge. How has your game developed since you played in Giessen. What kind of a Lorenzo Williams will we see on the court in 2014 with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven?

My game has evolved a lot. My experience with different coaches and styles of play have made me a well-rounded player. You will see a player who has matured and honed his game. Whatever the staff needs me to do, I can do. I’ve added more things to my game.

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Cardell Mcfarland(Hopefully Other Coaches Liked My Passion And Love For The Game And I Could Help Some Team Next Year In Germany)

Cardell Mcfarland is a 26 year old 182cm point guard from Evansville, Indiana that just finished his second professional season and first for the Giants Nordlingen and was down under playing for Gladstone Port City Power (Australia-QB).. He started his basketball career at Missouri State and then played his last two seasons for  Ky Wesleyan (NCAA2). Last season as a rookie he played for CS Farul Constanta (Romania-Division A): 7 games: 12.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 88.5%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

Cardell thanks for talking to German Hoops. You have ended your season early with two games left. How difficult was it doing that as the leader of the team?

 

I’ve been playing with bone spurs in my ankle for the past 6 months. It had been really bothering me over the last few weeks. Went to the doctor and he advise me to shut it down a few weeks and rest. 

 

 

What is your summary of the season of the Giants Nordlingen. The club lost the first two games combined by 67 points and lost four of the first five games. Why did the club start so slow and was this hard to recover from?

 

I think my absence is really affecting the team because they were so used to my creating and making plays for the team or myself. Right now just seems like they are lacking confidence. 

 

 

You totally dominated the Pro B averaging 24,0ppg. Was it for you like being a man playing with kids on the court?
I just approached the season game by game and prepared myself for the opponent. Watched film of other teams, and look at how I can be affect offensively to make plays for myself or the team. 

 

Last season you played for CS Farul Constanta (Romania-Division A). How was the adjustment coming from the Romanian league? Was coming to Germany a small step backwards in terms of the level of play?
Coming from Romania League top league to Germany Pro B league you would think the talent level would be different but there is good players everywhere at every level. In Romania I didn’t get the chance to prove myself as a player. Which caused me to leave after 7 games and other issues I had in Romania. Germany Pro B surprised me with the level it wasn’t that bad. Some German BBL players play in Pro B & it was some good Americans. My coach was telling me all season the league is better than it’s ever been. 

 

 

You had some great games. You scored in double figures 15 times and over 30 points four times. What was your season highlight?

 

Highlight of the season is beating Leipzig in OT with only 3 players remaining on the court. I believe 4 players fouled out for us. We only traveled with 7 for that game. And scoring 15 straight games with 20 or more shooting over 60% from the field for a Point Guard is amazing. 

 

 

Did you ever feel pressure to have to carry the team. You were the first and best scoring threat. Did you like the fact that the team might say ok Cardell get us some points now?

 

Never felt pressure to score. I didn’t have to force up shots. I believe the most shots I attempted in a game this year was 19. So I didn’t have to shoot a lot to get my points. 

 

 

You are a scoring point guard that can also set up his teammates. What is a strength in your game that doesn´t always get noticed?

 

Strength in my game that doesn’t always get noticed probably would say my defense. I think people notice what I do on the offensive end but defense is just as good. Quick feet and my toughness I’m only 5’11 167 pounds and never back away from a challenge. 

 

 

 

What young German player on the roster do you see having a very good career in the future?

 

J.R he’s 17 if he focus and develop his body, and basketball game he can be good cause his size and shooting ability. 

 

 

 

Which player in the German Pro B was your toughest opponent on the court?

 

I really can’t give you the toughest player off the top of my head but it was good players all around the board. 

 

 

 

Do you think that you will return to Germany? I am sure making the next step to the German pro A is in your mind set. Josh Parker dominated the Pro B last season and even made it to the Beko BBL this season.

 

I’ve had other coaches from around Germany come watch me play this season so hopefully they liked my passion and love for the game and I could help some team next year in Germany. 

 

 

What was your impression of young German Max Gentner? How were you able to make him a better player?

 

Max was one of the best German shooters on the team. And ankle injury kept him sidelined for most of the season. But hopefully he did learn from my work ethic on and off the court. So I wasn’t able to spend that much time with him on the court. 

 

 

You played two seassons at Missouri State. What were the main reasons for leaving and going to  Ky Wesleyan (NCAA2)?

 

At Missouri state was just a freshman starting on a good mid major Division 1 team. had some issues off the court that comes with being young and immature. Which led to my departure for a new college. 

 

 

At Missouri State you played two years with Kyle Weems. What was the most amazing thing that you saw him do in a game or practice?

 

That’s a tough question about Kyle. Kyle can get hot at any moment from 3pt line. In practice or game he can make like 6 or 7 in a row if he gets hot. 

 

 

He played NBA Summer league last season. What is missing from his game to reach the NBA?

 

I think Kyle is missing ball handling and creating his own shot. Kyle plays his best being a stretch 4 man cbeause he is deadly from 3pt line. Just give Kyle time before his career is done he will play a game in the NBA. He has the size for a 3 man and shooting ability. 

 

At Ky Wesleyan (NCAA2), you really tore up the league in two seasons there. You shot over 40% both years. Is shooting that you especially improved on in your two years there?

 

I shot over 40% in 3pt because I got open opportunities when they doubled Anthony down low on the block. Which made it an easier on me. 

 

 

How did Todd Lee help you get prepared to becoming a professional best? What was the most important thing that you learned from him?

 

My last two season of college Todd played me at Point Guard which I had the freedom and allowed me to create. I never played point guard before then. Always was an undersized 2 guard. 

 

 

 

You played two seasons there with current Essen player Anthony Young. Do you follow his game in Germany and can he make the next step up a level?

 

Yes Anthony and I speak almost every week through text and we both follow each other still. He’s having a good season in Pro A. I believe Anthony will at some point of his career will be playing at a high level. 

 

 

 

Both you and Young had great careers at Ky Wesleyan (NCAA2). What is your fondest memory with him on and off the court?

 

Fondest memory Anthony and on one games was probably the most fun. We both don’t like to lose and that winning attitude is what we both have in common. We went to war with each other just to make each other better and it payed off for the both of us. 

 

 

 

 

You played as a rookie for  CS Farul Constanta (Romania-Division A). What was your wake up call to being a rookie in a foreign country Romania?
Last season in Romania I really learned the business of European basketball. Romania wasn’t a good experience coming from college to Europe. But I learned from that experience and it helped me grow as a person and ball player. 

 

 

What will you be doing this summer? And how does a Cordell Mcfarland work out day on and off the court look like?

 

Summer best time for me. I really work on my game with a personal trainer who also played in Europe in many leagues. Weight room 5 days a week. And on the court 3 days a week. And probably some pick up ball on the weekends. Off the court normally spend a lot of time with my family. 

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Last DVD would be We’re the Millers 

 

 

 

Thanks Cardell for the chat.