James Washington is a 26 year old 182cm guard from St Louis that recently completed his third professional season having played for KFUM Nassjo Basket (Sweden-Basketligan): 36 games: 17.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.9apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 48.5%, 3FGP: 38.7%, FT: 83.6%, in Mar.’14 moved to VOO Wolves Verviers-Pepinster (Belgium-Ethias League, starting five): 9 games: 13.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 36.8%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 86.1%. He started his basketball career in 2006 for  W.Illinois (NCAA) where he played 36 NCAA games in two seasons. After a year at  Indian Hills C, he went to Middle Tenn.St. (NCAA) in 2009 where he played until 2011. As a senior he played 32 games: 14.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 86.4%. In 2011-2012 he started his professional basketball career in Germany for TBB Trier (Germany-BBL) playing 23 games: 5.7ppg, 1.8rpg, FGP: 38.8%, 3PT: 29.7%, FT: 80.0%. IN 2012-2013 he played for BG Topstar Leitershofen/Stadtbergen (Germany-ProB) playing  15 games: 20.0ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 83.5%. He talked to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

 

Hi James, where are you at the moment. How has your summer been?

What’s going on, I’m in St. Louis, Missouri. My summer has been really good, spent time with my family, traveled, and worked out.

You are obviously staying in shape and doing your workout programs, but how often does the Ferguson incident enter your mind when you are training? Every so often it seems like the fight against racism makes strides, but all in all examples like this show that this problem seems to be a difficult issue that will forever haunt the United States. How have you experienced the last week in St Louis with this issue?

Honestly when I go into to the gym or workouts I zone out, but when I leave it’s definitely on my mind because my mother and father’s house is only about 3-5 minutes from the crime scene and protesting grounds and I have other family members that stay even closer. But, investigation is still on going and all details have yet to be determined. So I don’t want to make it a racial issue I just want justice for Mike Brown, his family, and any other parties involved. I don’t by any means support the looting and destroying of our communities, but love how we have shown we can come together!

The summer is nearing to an end and you still are in the States while your ex teammates and friends are already in Europe preparing for the new season. I’ve heard You had 4 offers so far, but you rejected them all. Was it the money or going to a low league that enabled you to say no to these offers?

All of the offers have pretty much been from good to top leagues. My agent and I just want the best situation for myself and future all in one. Including winning, league, team, money etc.

I guess after last season where you tore up the league in Sweden and had very good stats in Belgium, you were expecting good offers this summer. Are you a little disappointed that they haven´t come?

I’ve had some pretty good offers, just waiting for the best opportunity.

Did you have any offers from Germany? I am sure you would like to play there again after having been in Trier and Leitershofen?

My agent have been In contact with a few BBL German teams, but none of those offers are from there. I tell people all the time how good the league was and how Germany reminds me of the States being so Americanized.

Players have had this experience in the past where they waited and waited for the best offer and before they knew it the new season started and they were still in the States with no team. Aren´t you getting a bit nervous that this fate could happen to you?

Naturally of course the thought runs through my mind every so often, but at the same time I trust my game, what I can bring to a team, and my agents work to land me a good job.

Lets look back on last season. You started the season at KFUM Nassjo Basket (Sweden-Basketligan): 36 games: 17.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.9apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 48.5%, 3FGP: 38.7%, FT: 83.6%. How important was it having these good stats again coming from the lower German Pro B?

I think it was very important to show what I could do not just offensively, but on both ends of the floor. Not taking anything from German Pro B level because it’s good players there too. But I needed to show I could do the same thing at a higher level, and now I’m looking forward to repeating myself again next season.

You were actually the second oldest on the team behind Torbjorn Svensson. How strange was it being the only American on the team? Were you seen automatically as the leader?

You making me feel old, but it’s not often being 25 at the time and being almost oldest on the team. But yes we had a very young team and I had a big role in Sweden. Coming from always being the youngest in Germany at TBB Trier to the leader in Sweden, helped me grow even faster and makes me feel like I went from a rookie to a veteran in one season. I was the only American for a short time in the beginning of the season before Taylor Brown got there and at the end when he left to Belgium first. Felt very different without him at times.

You played the last two months of last season with VOO Wolves Verviers-Pepinster (Belgium-Ethias League) playing 9 games: 13.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 36.8%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 86.1%. You only had a 1-8 record, but what was the most important thing that you gained from that short experience?

The biggest thing I gained was experiencing the talent and speed of another top league again. The Belgium league reminds me of the athleticism and physicality of the German BBL.

You played against many solid guards like Demond Mallet, Taylor Battle or Derek Raivio all who have played in the Beko BBL. You gained self confidence I am sure, but what part of your game really was tweaked in those last two months?

I think being able to decide when to be more of a scorer or more a distributer. I led my team in scoring in Belgium also, but after watching film I noticed sometimes in certain parts of the game I needed to get the ball to certain people or certain spots on the floor.

Did you see Jimmy Mckinney this summer? He also is still unsigned. Would it be like a dream to play on the same team with him?

Of course, J Roc is a big brother to me. We workout, play pick up, and play in the pro am almost every day together. That would be crazy! We know each other’s game very well which would help out a lot. I know where to get him the ball so I would for sure average some extra assists just off him.

When you were with TBB Trier, you played together with Nate Linhart who was playing his first season in Europe. This season he will play for Euroleague team Macabbi tel Aviv. When you look back on that season, did you know that he had the game to make it this far? What did you like most about his game?

I want to say congrats to Nate for that opportunity and good luck. But looking back Nate was always the player coach Henrik couldn’t keep off the floor because he did so many things and brought so much to the table. I liked how he slashed to the basket and ran the floor to make it easier for Dru Joyce and I on fast break opportunities.

If you could describe yourself in a few sentences as to why you could help any team now how would you do it?

I am a point guard with shooting, and scoring abilities of an off guard. Son of a coach so I grew up on defense and doing what it takes to win ball games.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Watched Identity Thief yesterday.

 

Thanks James for the chat

 

Todd Brown is a 26 year old 196cm guard from Canton, Ohio that is starting his fifth professional season and first in Germany with Phoenix Hagen. He started his basketball career in 2006 with Wright State(NCAA) where he played until 2010 playing a total of 129 NCAA games and as a senior played 32 games: 12.6ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 73.6%. In 2010-2011 he started his professional basketball career for DeFriesland Aris Leeuwarden (Holland-DBL, starting five): 39 games: 14.6ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 73.7%. In 2011-2012 he played for WBC Raiffeisen Wels (Austria-A Bundesliga, starting five): 36 games: 15.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.6apg, Steals-3(1.9spg), FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 80.1%. In the 2012-2013 season he played for Mineros de Cananea (Mexico-CIBACOPA): 9 games: 17.6ppg, 5.1rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 17.1%, FT: 85.0%. Last season he played for Lappeenranta NMKY (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five): 42 games: Score-2(22.2ppg), 6.3rpg, 2.8apg, Steals-3(2.0spg), FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 81.6%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

 

Todd thanks for talking to German Hoops.  You got signed very late this off season to Phoenix Hagen. How was the overall experience this season for you looking for a new team? Were you a bit nervous at the end about catching on somewhere?

 

The overall experience was good. I had interest from different teams, and I trust my agent so I spend my summers enjoying family and friends.

Welcome to Germany. You will play for Phoenix Hagen. What were the magical words from head coach Ingo Freyer that made you want to come to this team?

Really wasnt any magical words that got me to sign, it was more the challenge I enjoy competition and seeing how I compare to other players. And I like the Hagen style of play.

What do you know about the Germany as a country and its basketball? You have ex teammates from college that have played here and opponents you had from other countries.

I have a few friends that have played in Germany so I know some things but it’s nothing like actually living at a place and getting the experience.

After playing in lower leagues like Holland, Austria and Finland, you now will have the chance to prove that you can play in a top league like the Beko BBL. Are you ready for the challenge?

I feel I am ready for the challenge. I have been playing at a high level all my life. My high school team was one of the best in the nation. And went on to play Division 1 basketball, so God willing my game shows it.

Your new teammate Larry Gordon also proved he could play in the Beko BBL after having played in Holland and Austria. How excited are you to finally be teammates with him and what do you like most about his game?

Larry is a hard worker and before we were even teammates we got along well so hopefully he can make my transition easier.

Last season you played for Lappeenranta NMKY (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 42 games: Score-2(22.2ppg), 6.3rpg, 2.8apg, Steals-3(2.0spg), FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 81.6%. Finland is a league that has helped countless players make the next step like a Ricky Hickman who made it all the way to Macabbi Tel Aviv winning the Euroleague last season. How important was your season in Finland and what did this experience give your game to make the next step now in Germany?

Last year in Finland was a very important season because I came off a knee injury and fought my way back to a pro level. So while I was going through my therapy with my knee my mentality changed about basketball and I believe for the better.

The scouting report on you is very positive. You are a pure scorer that can fill up the stats sheets. However what do you believe is a strength in your game that doesn´t always get noticed right away on the court and remains off the radar?

I think a talent of mine that may not get noticed often is my basketball IQ. I take pride in knowing the game and reading situations while I am playing. It makes the game a little easier for me I think.

You had a very solid rookie season at DeFriesland Aris Leeuwarden (Holland-DBL) playing 39 games: 14.6ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 73.7%. What was your wake up call as a rookie where you knew that you had landed as a professional in Europe?

My rookie year I had a great coach in Pete Miller. He kept me focused and he believed in me and we had vets on that team but he and my team trusted me in big situations.

In the 2011-2012 season you played for WBC Raiffeisen Wels (Austria-A Bundesliga) with ex Phoenix Hagen player Quentin Pryor. It doesn´t really get any more intense than with Q. Does He rank up in your top 3 hardest competitors that you have ever played with?

Me and Q still talk to this day, I loved being on the same team with him, because I always knew what I was going to get from him and we worked well on the court together.

It seems like everyone has their Dashaun Wood story. Vaughn Duggins remembers that in practice that Wood would tell him how he would score against his opponent on the next play and beat him 9/10 times in one on one as he was a freshman. What was your Dashaun Wood story as a freshman?

Me and D.Woods were roommates on road trips and the thing I remember most is before games he would turn on cartoons and turn the heat on high and take a shower. He loved SpongeBob lol so if that was on I knew he was going to have a good game. But he plays with something to prove every night.

Ex players that played at Wright State continue to marvel about head coach Billy Donlon.How did he prepare you best for a professional basketball career? Do you ever think back and agree that his words really did help you as a professional?

Coach Donlon is a gym rat and he prepared me more for pro than he did college because he wasnt the head coach at the time but he taught us so many moves and little tricks that would give us the advantage against any one he played and he was so passionate about the game.

You played 4 seasons of NCAA basketball. You played against so many great players, but who was the toughest player that you had to guard that is in the NBA now?

In college I would have to say Isaiah Thomas played him my senior year. I had 20 something that game he had like 30 off free throws because he was so crafty.

You are one of very many very skilled players that come from the state of OHIO. Why do so many good players come from the State? Is it only the good youth development or is there something special in the food there? Lol

I think good players come from Ohio because high school sports mean a lot to people, in my city of Canton,Ohio high school sports in everything.

You got a psychology degree at Wright State. How much has this degree helped you understand the mental aspect of the game of basketball better?

I think my psychology help me not be so hard on myself in big situations, just look at it as its just basketball no ones life depends on the shot or the game all you can really do is your best. But if it goes wrong I am still very angry lol . I dont like to lose. So I dont know if it helps much lol.

How often have you been in the NFL Hall Of Fame? What memorabilia do you stand next to most in that building?

The pro football Hall Of Fame is on my high school campus so I have been a lot. Hall of fame weekend is big in my city, Canton comes alive during that week.

Lebron James is returning home to the Cavs. Where will the journey of this NBA team go in the next few years with much youth on board and the best basketball player on the planet on the team?

The Cavs or any team with Lebron James becomes a front runner for the championship.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Last DVD was He got game, best player to ever play the game is Jesus Shuttlesworth.

Thanks for the chat Todd.

Enis Murati is a 26 year old 194cm forward from Austria that has played his whole career for Allianz Swans Gmunden (Austria-A Bundesliga). Last season was his best season in Austria where he played 28 games: averaging 13.4ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 84.8%. He prompt was invited to the Austrian national team and currently is taking part in the Euroqualifying for 2015. In three games he is averaging 19,0ppg, 3,3rpg and 1,7apg. He is shooting 61% from outside in the three games and had his breakthrough against Germany with 27 points. Last night he helped lead Austria past Poland 83-81 with 18 points. He spoke to German Hoopsfollowing the loss to Germany recently.

 

 

Enis thanks for talking to German Hoops. A tough 77-64 loss to Germany in the second game of European qualifications. I guess Austria learned tonight that a game has 40 minutes and not 35 minutes. Is this a game that Austria will be able to forget quickly?

 

This was a very hard game for us. We controlled the game for the most part and lost at the end. That hurts. But we learned a lot out of it, and the concentration is already headed to the Poland game.

With five minutes to play Austria led 64-56, but then totally lost their rhythm allowing Germany to finish the game with a 21-0 run. Did Austria get tired? What were the main reasons for not being able to score in the last five minutes?

We lost our concentration for a couple possessions and couldn’t recover from it. We stopped to play in offense and defense. The Germans found finally their rhythm and made all the important shots. We are a very young team and have to get used to play for 40 min on such a high level.

Germany lost the first game in Poland and were on the boarder of losing in Austria. Were you surprised how Germany played for 35 minutes? Is Germany overrated or just not playing to their potential despite having NBA player Dennis Schroeder and other top players?

 Germany has a very good team. I think they still look to find their rhythm. Regardless I think that right now also other countries can play good basketball and should not be underestimated.

You led your team with 27 points and shot 11/16. You have played your whole life in Austria. Has Germany never been an option for you? Do you believe that some German teams now know who you are after this performance?

In the past years I wasn’t really thinking about going abroad because I was establishing myself as a player in Austria. Playing for National team is a good chance to be seen by other countries and teams. I like Germany because it has a very strong league and we will see what the future will bring to me.

What German player impressed you the most in the game? Maxi Kleber was a big factor in the fourth quarter why Germany could come back and win the game.

 Maxi Kleber, Zirbes and Schaffartzik impressed me.

How content are you that Austria can still advance? Austria now plays Poland next who is 2-0.

I think we still have good chances. If we want to advance we have to beat one of the stronger teams in our group.

You battled against Thomas Schreiner for many years in Austria with Gmunden against his teams St Polten and Kapfenberg. Last season he helped MoraBanc Andorra (Spain-Liga Endesa) move up from the Leb Gold. Do you see him being an impact player for his team in the top league in Europe?

 Of course. Schreiner is a smart guard who can shoot the ball really well and his pick and role game is very good. He was the best assist maker in his team the last season.

You just can´t separate some players from teams as Pascal Roller played 11 years in Frankfurt or Derrick Sharp who played 15 seasons for Macabbi Tel Aviv. You will begin your ninth season for Gmunden. You have won six titles with Gmunden. What has made this team so special that hasn´t made you want to explore other countries and teams?

 Gmunden is a special place for me. The people who helped me developing to the player as I am now make the difference to other places in Austria. The Club is very familiar and very well organized. Gmunden is not just basketball for me. All my good friends and family is there. Being there for nine years make me feel like at home.

You played three seasons at Gmunden with American Dan Oppland who has returned back to Germany to play for Nurnberg. What was your nicest memory with him on and off the court?

 Dan is a very nice guy and a good teammate with a great work ethic. I won a lot playing with him. My favorite title in 2010 happened when he was in Gmunden. We spent a lot of our free time just hanging out together and also travelling around.

If you and Anton Maresch are parked in the corner and take 10 shots a piece, who will have hit more shots?

I think Romed Vieider will hit the most shots!

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 Inception

 

Thanks Enis for the chat

Thomas Schreiner is a 27 year old 195cm point guard from St Polten, Austria that will be playing his third season with Spanish team  MoraBanc Andorra (Spain-Liga Endesa)helping them move up this season to division one. He started his basketball career in 2003 for : UKJ SUBA St.Polten (B Bundesliga) where he played until 2006. In the 2006-2007 season he played for  BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers (A Bundesliga): Stage 1: 21 games: 3.1ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.8bpg; Stage 2: 14 games: 7.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.0apg, 2.3bpg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 71.4%. Then in 2007 he returned back to St Polten where he played until 2011. In the 2011-2012 season he played for  ECE Bulls Kapfenberg (A Bundesliga). Since 2012 he has been playing for Andorra. Currently he is a member of the Austrian national team and spoke to German Hoops after the loss to Germany in qualifying.

 

Thomas thanks for talking to German Hoops. A tough 77-64 loss to Germany in the second game of European qualifications. I guess Austria learned tonight that a game has 40 minutes and not 35 minutes. Is this a game that Austria will be able to forget quickly?

 

It was definitely a tough loss for us. We have to move on from last nights game quickly, we have to draw confidence from our first 35 minutes and learn from our mistakes. We have to move on quickly because we have another big game on Sunday against Poland.

 

With five minutes to play Austria led 64-56, but then totally lost their rhythm allowing Germany to finish the game with a 21-0 run. Did Austria get tired? What were the main reasons for not being able to score in the last five minutes?

I don’t think it was about us getting tired. We just had a couple of mental breakdowns and got to passive because of their defensive intensity.

Germany lost the first game in Poland and were on the boarder of losing in Austria. Were you surprised how Germany played for 35 minutes? Is Germany overrated or just not playing to their potential despite having NBA player Dennis Schroeder and other top players?

It’s obvious they’re not playing up to their potential so far. I think that they’re a really talented team but haven’t had a chance to prepare properly because of the NBA summer league. Also, you cannot forget that they’re a really young team.

Enis Murati led Austria with 27 points and shot 11/16. He has played in Austria his whole life. Do you believe that some German teams now know who he is after this performance?

I think after last nights performance everybody who watched the game in Germany now knows him. I’m glad he played well and got a chance to show that they’re also good players in the Austrian league.

What German player impressed you the most in the game? Maxi Kleber was a big factor in the fourth quarter why Germany could come back and win the game.

Maxi Kleber was the X factor for Germany. He is a really talented player and had an outstanding performance against us. I think he has a bright future ahead of him.

How content are you that Austria can still advance? Austria now plays Poland next who is 2-0.

We knew coming into this group that it would not be easy to qualify for the European championships. We are heading into every game with the mindset that we want to win, and I still believe in our team that if we play our best basketball we can still qualify.

You already led the Austrian league in assists as a 21 year old in the 2007-2008 season with 7,6 assists per game. Has passing and finding your teammates always come easy to you?

I’m a player who does whatever the team needs to win games. For me as a Point Guard to try to get everybody involved.

You will be playing your third season for MoraBanc Andorra (Liga Endesa) and helped them move up from Leb Gold to the Liga Endesa. How thrilled are you to start to play in the best league behind the NBA this season?

I’m very excited, and look forward to competing with the best players in Europe.

You were second best in the Leb Gold in assists last year. What will be most challenging on the court this season for you coming from the Leb Gold league?

I think the biggest challenge will be to compete against even better players and teams than last season. I also think the speed of the game is another notch higher in the Liga Endesa.

You played with Jordi Trias who played 6 seasons for FC Barcelona and this season Victor Sada will join the team who played 8 seasons for FC Barcelona and won medals at the 2011 European championships and 2012 Olympics. Since you have been there has Trias told any interesting stories from his Barcelona days?

Yes, like every veteran he shared a lot of interesting and also funny stories about his career, and especially his time in Barcelona.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Captain America 2

Thanks Thomas for the chat.

 

Sometimes just seeing one game of a player can leave a lasting impression and even if Matt Bauscher (190-G-85, college: Boise St.) beat the Fraport Skyliners on a March day in 2012 with a buzzer beater it wasnt just that shot that will keep the name Bauscher in my memory bank, but the way he played the game. Matt Bauscher may only be 29 years old and probably in his best basketball age, but surprisingly he decided to hang up his sneakers for good today after a six year professional career where he made a name of himself in Holland. He also played briefly in Germany and Cyprus.

When I look back on that 2011-2012 season, it was a season to forget for the 2010 Eurochallenge winner BG Goettingen as they had only won 2 games leading up to the game in Frankfurt and really were only playing for pride as they knew that they would be returning back to the German second division after being in the Beko BBL for 5 years. For the Fraport Skyliners, they played an amazing second half of the season beating big name teams like Munich and Bamberg and it came down to a last game in Bonn to reach the playoffs which they lost. Guys like Jacob Burtschi or Michael Thompson surely will never forget this buzzer beater loss to BG Goettingen becuase a win surely would have pushed them into the playoffs.

When looking back at that buzzer beater win, I had to look back into my collection of German Hoops articles I have written. With 5.4 seconds to play, BG Goettingen had one more play to win the game and won it with a Matt Bauscher buzzer beater. I have hit some buzzer beaters in my career, but this was my first in Germany. I got the ball slipped as did Mckinney, kept my composure and just took the shot. It felt very good after it left my hand, explained Matt Bauscher. You have to tip your hat to Bauscher. He made the shot over two players, added Quantez Robertson. Bauscher made a tough play, but big time players will make big time plays, stressed Skyliner guard Devin Gibson. After playing in Holland the last three years, Bauscher was humble and lauding the BG Goettingen organization despite their hard times this season. It has been great playing for this organization. They have die hard fans. The fans have showed a lot more heart than what we could ever ask for. It has been a pleasure playing here, stressed 2009 Dutch scoring champ Matt Bauscher. There were quite a lot of memorable games in the 2011-2012 season, but the Justin Gray and Matt Bauscher buzzer beater games will always be in my mind.

Matt Bauscher never had it easy when it came to basketball as when he came out of high school, he was offered no scholarship to any school and decided to get away from Boise and went to Spokane community college. He then did get the chance with very hard work to play for Boise St. (NCAA) from 2005-2008 where he played a total of 92 NCAA games. As a senior he played 9.2ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 49.1%, 3Pts: 43.5%, FT: 50.0%.

Bauscher then started his professional basketball career in Holland and right away had no difficulty getting adjusted to the European style as he played for Aris Friesland Leeuwarden (Holland-Eredivisie) playing 37 games and leading the league in scoring with (22.2ppg), 3.9rpg, and was top assist man with (5.9apg), Steals-5 (2.4spg), FGP: 59.7%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 67.0%. He then played two seasons for GasTerra Flames (Holland-Eredivisie) where he helped win the 2010 Dutch league title. He really cleaned up with the Eurobasket awards winning four with Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie Player of the Year -10, Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie Guard of the Year -10, Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie Import Player of the Year -10, and Eurobasket.com Dutch Eredivisie All-Defensive Team -10. In 2011-2012, he came to Germany and played for BG Goettingen (Germany-1.Bundesliga9 EuroChallenge: 2 games: 9.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.5apg; German League: 24 games: 10.9ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.9apg, FGP: 43.9%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 64.1%. In the 2012-2013 season he played for Eiffel Towers Den Bosch (Holland-Eredivisie) 39 games: 11.5ppg, 3.2rpg, Assists-5 (4.8apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 60.0%. Last season he got further experience playing for Petrolina AEK Larnaca (Cyprus-Division A) playing 15 games: 8.2ppg, 5.1rpg, Assists-1 (3.9apg), 1.1spg. In every professional season except for his time in Germany, the American was top 5 in assists. Bauscher was a team player and the best example for any basketball player out there that is fighting with the decision to keep pushing that basketball dream or not that even when the odds are against you, you should never give up and follow your basketball dream

Matt Smith is a 23 year old 201cm forward from Whitewright, Texas that will commence his professional basketball career this season in Germany with the Finke Baskets Paderborn. He started his basketball career in 2009 with  Wisc.-Green Bay (NCAA). He then transferred to Toledo(NCAA) where he played from 2011-2014 plying a total of 94NCAA games there. As a senior he played 34 games: 3.8ppg, 1.8rpg. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Matt thanks for talking to German Hoops. It has been almost 5 months since your last college game against Southern Mississippi. Despite averaging only 11 minutes your senior year and 3,8ppg, how confident were you that a professional career as basketball player could happen?

I was very confident, because I know what kind of player I am and that if I am put into the right situation then I will flourish.

How was your first experience testing the players market this summer. At the end you can s ay better late than never, because you were signed very late by the German pro A team Finke Baskets Paderborn. What did you learn from the whole experience?

I learned that this is a business and in order to be wanted, you have to produce the year before.

What do you know about the country Germany and the basketball scene there? Tyrus Mcghee who you know recently also got signed in Germany by the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven.

I really do not know much about Germany. I am anxious to get there and see everything! Yes, Tyrus and I grew up together and I was super excited when I found out that he was going to be playing in Germany as well.

Your town Whitewright and Germany are linked. Back in World War 2, US Lieutenant Joe Tom Meador who comes from Whitewright looted some major German pieces of art from a cave and had it sent back to the States. He died in 1980 and in 1992 the art was returned to Germany. Did you know this? This could be an interesting story to German folks. Do you remember being taught German history in school?

Actually, I had no idea that happened. I will definitely have to look this up more so I can share this with others.

After a stellar career at Whitewright high school, you went to UW-Greenbay where as a freshman you started 34 of 35 games averaging 3,2ppg and 2,1rpg. Why did you transfer after your freshman year? Did you see yourself having a different kind of role that head coach Tod Kowalczyk had for you?

Coach Kowalczyk took the head coaching job for the University of Toledo at the end of my freshman year. The coaching staff asked if I wanted to come with them to help rebuild and I was honored, so I decided to transfer.

How difficult was it sitting out the 2010-2011 season due to transfer rules at Toledo? What was the most valuable things you learned practicing and watching games form the sidelines?

My redshirt year was one of the most difficult years of my life. It was extremely frustrating that I had to watch my team struggle and could not contribute. The most valuable thing I learned sitting out was to see a coach’s perspective during that year. I started really understanding what the coaching staff had to go through to prepare for practice and games, so it made me more appreciative.

After playing many minutes your second and third seasons and being one of the top three point shooters in the MAC conference, you had a lesser role last season. How difficult was it for you to take a step back and have to watch more?

It was difficult at first, because I wanted to be out there so badly. I then heard a quote that changed my whole way of thinking. The quote was, “I don’t know how many minutes, points, or rebounds a game I will get, but I know I will give 100% every time I step out on the court.” After hearing this, it made the year much easier.

Toledo had very talented guys your senior year. Having gone through this experience as a senior, how do you think that you have grown as a player that will be beneficial for you right away as a rookie professional?

I know how hard it was for us to be good. I am a rookie, but I am a seasoned one. I feel as if I can teach the younger guys things.

Your coach at UW-Greenbay Tod Kowalczyk followed you to Toldeo in 2010. What was the most important thing that you learned from him on and off the court that will have you ready to take on the battles on the court as a professional?

He always told me that no matter what I do I am always being evaluated by someone. That helped me want to set the best examples on and off the court.

You are a 201cm forward that can do it all especially spread the floor. What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?

My help defense. I love rotating over and taking a charge to help out my team!

You played three seasons with point guard Julius Brown. Where do you see his journey going as a professional in the future?

He is going to be a great player overseas! He makes difficult moves look so easy and smooth. He will definitely make some money playing this game.

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

I usually wake up at about 7 am, eat a snack and run anywhere from a mile to 3.5 miles. Afterwards, I will get cleaned up and have breakfast with the family and take on whatever activities they have planned for the day. In the evening, if I can get into a gym to get a workout in I will, otherwise I will go for another 1-2 mile run.

Who was the best player that you had to play against that is in the NBA now?

Blake Griffin. I played against him in AAU my freshman year in high school.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The Lion king.

Thanks Matt for the chat.

Taylor Brown is a 25 year old 198cm forward from Atlanta that will be starting his third professional season where hard work has taken him from the third league in Germany via Sweden and the first division in Belgium to Darussafaka Dogus Istanbul (Turkey-TBL) this season. He played at Bradley(NCAA) from 2008-2012 playing a otal of 89 NCAA games and as a senior played 28 games: 14.8ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 81.4%. In the 2012-2013 season he turned professional and played for Fraport Skyliners Frankfurt II (Germany-ProB, starting five): 12 games: 16.8ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 19.0%, FT: 73.1%. Last season he played for KFUM Nassjo Basket (Sweden-Basketligan): 26 games: Score-2(22.2ppg), Reb-4(9.4rpg), 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 82.2%, left in Feb.’14, in Mar.’14 moved to Basic-Fit Brussels (Belgium-Ethias League, starting five): 11 games: 13.8ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 48.3%, FT: 90.0%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

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

I’m in Atlanta Georgia. Summer has been fast but very gratifying at the end with the new team opportunity.

It seems like it was yesterday that you were playing with young Germans like Danilo Barthel and Konstantin Klein with Frankfurt. In the last 16 months has seen you go to Sweden and Belgium and now your headed to Turkey. Has time flown by for you and what kind of experience has it been for you? 

Yes time is flying by. It’s been a great experience I’ve had the chance to play for some good coaches and teams that needed me and some great teammates who I still keep up with via social media.

After playing in the German Pro B, you kept moving up the ladder and played in better leagues in Sweden and even better league in Belgium. You seemed to have no problems adjusting each time. What do you think was key each time for being able to respond on the court in a strong way?

The key is having confidence and once you have that you have to have the work ethic to back it up. Once you’ve done that its not much that can stop you. God has blessed me with some good seasons but the best are yet to come.

I was excited to see you play again this September as Basic-Fit Brussels will play the Fraport Skyliners in a test game, but now you have moved up another level to Turkey to play for Darussafaka Dogus Istanbul (Turkey-TBL). Please explain how this came about? How excited are you to be playing in another league better than your previous league in Belgium?

I’m very excited because I know how great this league is and how close the NBA eyes are in the league. One day I was praying to my little brother who passed for a better opportunity the next morning my agent contacted me saying the Turkish team was high on me and wanted me.

So far in your professional basketball career you have mastered every challenge that you have come across. How have you prepared yourself even better this summer to be ready for this challenge?

Thank you. I just stay focused and stay close with god and my family. You have to be at peace in your mind if you want to be successful, then go out and put the work in. My other brother is 14 and 6’3 we have been in the gym every day because I know he is up next!

You started the 2013-2014 season with Nassjo in Sweeden and tore up the league averaging 22.2ppg), Reb-4(9.4rpg), 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 82.2%. Your first 5 games were solid, but you then exploded with 28 and 40 points and from then on just dominated the league. How much more did you have to step up your game form the German Pro B to dominate even more in Sweden?

 I had to step up a lot. They are different levels, my confidence had to rise and once your teammates trust you and have confidence in you that gives you an extra boost. I was and am just focusing on helping my team, and setting myself and future up to its best abilities.

With Nassjo, you played together with American James Washington who also played in the German Pro B when you were with Frankfurt. He also had a very strong season with you. What do you cherish most on and off the court with him?

James and I are close, we are the same but totally different at the same time. I needed the balance during the season and some of his wisdom. We had many talks about Swedish league Belgium league and players all over the globe. He is a smart person.

After such a strong season in Sweden, you opted to finish the last few months with Brussels. How were you able to motivate yourself after such a strong season in Sweden? Did you realize there that you can play at any level in Europe? You had two 30 plus games.

Well I knew Sweden wasn’t enough for me to move up like I wanted to. I was very happy with my best year so far. But never satisfied. Yes I told you when I first met you I could play BBL and any level. That mindset has grown stronger with my good games in Belgium. I’m ready to do the same to TBL!

What do you remember from your 32 point game against Liege where you won the scoring game against Liege American Mike Smith?

It was a tough game, Mike and his team wouldn’t go away. I was hot from the 3 and felt like I couldn’t miss. It was a great game and an eye opener. Like I can do this at any level against any team!

Your teammate in the last few months was American Adam Hall who has 9 years on you. What could you take from his game and experience that helped you in your short time there?

I can take his preparation for practices and games. He was very meticulous and knew exactly what he needed for games and practice. Get into a comfortable routine is vital at this stage.

Your ex teammate Danilo Barthel played NBA Summer League this summer with the Miami Heat. Had you ever expected that he could go this route when you were practicing with him daily in Frankfurt?

 Yes I wasn’t surprised at all. I watched him Play a couple games.

His dunking may stand out, but his passing is very good and he can also shoot the ball. What did you take to heart most from the game of Barthel?

He is a very athletic player who has a high ceiling. We all said that in Germany. If he played college basketball in the states he would be on ESPN every night.!

In todays day and age where athleticism is so important, could you see Danilo Barthel reaching the NBA in the next years?

Yes I could he is still very young and has no where to go but up. All he has to do is work!

Where will the journey of the Atlanta Hawks end this season?

 I hope they make the playoff at least.!

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 Last movie was “the perfect stranger”

Thanks Taylor for the chat

• Diante Watkins is a 24 year old 174cm point guard that will be starting his third professional season and second in Germany with SC Rist Wedel. He started his basketball career with Daley CC (JUCO) He then moved to Robert Morris(NAIA) where he played his last two seasons of college ball. As a senior he played 27 games: 24.4ppg, 7.4apg, 3.0rpg, 2.1spg, FGP: 47.0%, 3Pts: 38.9%, FT: 82.7%. In 2012 he started his professional basketball career for the Chicago Redline (IBA-PBL): 2 games: 22.5ppg, 5.0apg, 3.5rpg, 3.5spg, FGP: 45.9%, FT: 77.8%. Last season he played for SC Rist Wedel (Germany-ProB, starting five): 30 games: 16.2ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 86.9%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball
• Thanks Diante for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

I’m fine miles my summer has been good, I’m currently back home in Chicago just working out and trying to get better for this upcoming season.

 

You had a very successful season for SC Rist Wedel where you reached the playoffs beating Leipzig, before bowing out to eventual Pro B champ Oldenburg. You had a very productive season playing 30 games: 16.2ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 86.9%. What were the main reasons for coming back?

 

My main reason for coming back was I tested the waters to see if I could get a higher league to give me a shot but nothing came up I had some interest according to my agent but no offers. I didn’t want to wait around too long knowing I had a great home in Wedel.

 

As is so often the case in the German Pro B, there is often a strong starting five, but it comes down to the bench how well a team will perform through 40 minutes. With Lee Jeka, Davey Hopkins and yourself, Wedel had very strong players. Did you sometimes put to much pressure on yourself to perform?

 

I believe I did put a lot of pressure on myself because I came off the bench, I wanted to show people I could really play because my minutes were limited. Also, I just wanted to impact the game the best way that I could so we could win.

 

What personal goals have you set for yourself for this season? In what areas of your game do you want to improve on this season?

My personal goals, I want to win the PRO B, we were so close last season and since I’m going back to Wedel I think the fans and my teammates who I played with last year deserve it. I also want to win the MVP of the league and show people I can play at the higher level. Right now I’ve been working back on my 3 point shot my % was down from my college seasons. And also just getting better in conditioning & sharpening up on my pick & roll game as well as my off ball defense.

 

 

What was your impression last season of talented German Janis Stielow? What impresses you most about his game?

I love Janis composure, he plays with a confidence you don’t see in young players. The way he studies the game and got better throughout the season was great. I love the way he makes big shots he made a lot for us last season.

 

You had many great games last season, but what remained your season highlight? Your buzzer beater or the 29 point 10 assist game in the playoffs against Leipzig?

I think the playoff game against Leipzig was my best game. It felt good I was making some real good plays and it came at a very important time, game 1 of a tough playoff series.

 

It is never easy to find a job coming out of the NAIA, but you and Billy Rush who also played at Robert Morris have made it to Europe. Rush like yourself comes from Illinois. Have you guys ever motivated each other to keep pushing? What kind of relationship do you have to him? Have you guys met?

Me and Billy have a good relationship when we see each other we tell each other to keep working and continue to grow as players. I know Billy we play in the same tournaments sometimes throughout the summer in Chicago. He’s a great guy and a really good basketball player

Your head coach at Robert Morris was Al Bruehl. How did he make you into a better basketball player in college that got you ready for the grind of being a professional?

Coach Al always told us whatever you think you’re doing it won’t be enough and it made you work harder. He understood his players, he allowed me to flourish in his system on top of pushing me in practice by playing against the best players on our roster. That helped me a lot.

 

How does a normal Diante Watkins work out day look like in the summer on and off the court?

I get up eat breakfast a bowl of maple wheat oatmeal, than at 8am I go run 1-2 miles at the track, than head to my workout with my trainer Brian Benjowich and my close friend who is played in 1st league Italy last season Aaron Johnson. Leave go get a smoothie and lunch. Maybe get a nap or go watch summer basketball. Then I go back to the gym at night to lift the weights get extra shots up and get in the pool

 

Will the Chicago Cubs ever win a World Series in our lifetime?

 

And lol I don’t think the Cubs will ever win a World Series again I’m from the SouthSide so I’m a white sox fan.

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Think Like A Man, very funny movie. Thanks again Miles for the interview I really appreciate you taking the time out to talk to me.

 

No problem and good luck this season.

 

 

 

Myles Hesson is a 24 year old 198cm forward that last season played in Germany for the LTi Giessen 46ers (ProA) playing  33 games: 16.1ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 78.8%. He started his basketball career in 2009 for the Birmingham Aces (EBL2, starting five): 13.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 2FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 60.0%. In the 2010-2011 season he played for Essex Pirates Basketball Club (BBL): 11 games: 9.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 68.4%. In the 2011-2012 season he played for Liverpool Mersey Tigers (BBL, starting five): 27 games: 15.1ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.the 3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 61.5%. In the 2012-2013 season he came to Germany playing for the Weissenhorn Youngstars (Germany-ProB, starting five): 20 games: 19.7ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg, 1.5bpg, 2FGP: 54.4%, 3FGP: 27.4%, FT: 65.6%, in Mar.’13 moved to Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany-BBL): 9 games: 4.2ppg, 2.8rpg. In the summer of 2013 he played at the European Championships in Slovenia -13: 5 games: 11.8ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 77.4%. He spoke to German Hoops before the start of the 2014 European qualifications as he gets set to play for England.

 

 

 

Myles thanks for talking to German Hoops again. Before going to national team were you able to enjoy some off time from basketball in early summer? What was your nicest experience you had the last months?

 

Yeah I went on holiday with my girlfriend to Mallorca, it was good to get away from everything for a while.

Last summer you made a name for your self having a very strong European campaign in Slovenia for Great Britain playing 5 games: 11.8ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 77.4%. How has the experience been this summer? With a year more of experience what expectations did you have coming in fighting for a spot again?

We have played some good opposition so far this summer and has prepared us well for our upcoming  European qualification games. I know what to expect this time round, so I have a good idea of what I need to do to help the team.

Great Britain recently placed third at a tournament in Tbilisi. You lost to Belarus, but defeated Moldavia. What kind of experience was this for you at the team and is the club ready for the European qualifications?

It was good to go over there and play 3 teams with differing styles of play. We learned a lot about ourselves and what we need to do as a team to win our qualification games.

Great Britain is without big names like Luo Deng and Joel Freeland. Do you see yourself having to step up even more than last season?

It was the same for us last year without those guys. I just do my best to help the team succeed.

Do you feel a lot of pressure having a good qualifying tournament or is it something that you can adjust to as even with very good role players with Giessen with TJ Dileo and Steven Bennett, you often had to step up in the playoffs or the team would most likely have lost.

I just take every game as they come, the pressure to win and play well is always the same for me. The result at the end of the game is all that counts.

Going into the Euro qualifying, what part of your game has most improved in the last year with your season in Giessen under ex German national player and now coach Denis Wucherer?

I feel my ball handling and my 3 point shooting have improved since last summer so hopefully I can continue to improve on those aspects.

Great Britain skipper Drew Sullivan has lauded you this summer and has trust that you can fill the shoes of Luo Deng. How has he helped you on the court most this summer with his words of wisdom?

His belief in me as a player is really good for my confidence. Coming from someone as experienced as him it means a lot

How important has a player like Gareth Murray been for you? He is an allrounder, but also gives strength inside with his play. Are you able to take something form his inside game to help your game?

Murray has been really solid for us so far this summer, his perimeter shooting is something I look up to in his game.

A big talent on the team is Devon Van Oostrum. You played with him last summer and this summer. He has played in Spain the last years.You and him could be teammates for many years to come on the national team, Where do you see the journey of this kid going?

Yeah Devon is an exciting player to watch and play with and I hope makes it to the NBA one day, there’s a lot of young European talent getting drafted in recent years so I dont see why he couldn’t if he continues improving

Devon Van Oostrum, is the kid with the English first name and Dutch last name. Do you ever kid him about his name or does he have to put up with other teammates? Lol

Nah I dont joke about that haha

Great Britain will be playing a game in Iceland. Even though you will be highly concentrated to win the game, are you able to still be able to enjoy the experience of being in an exotic place at least for a short while?

I hope so maybe after the game I will be able to see some of the sites but its business first.

Last season you could of played Beko BBL, but opted to gain some more experience playing in the German Pro A. This season, you might not play in Germany, but in another country with a good league. Are you as surprised as I am that a Beko BBL team didn´t believe as much in your abilities?

I  still havent signed yet so theres still a chance I could play in Germany again hopefully, I will just have to see what interest there is after the qualifications are over

After playing two seasons in Germany, could you feel a touch of happiness for Germany winning the 2014 World Cup? Did you follow the tournament a bit?

Yeah in fact as soon as England were out, they were who I was rooting for. I watched quite a few matches, it was a great tournament.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I just watched guardians of the galaxy, I recommend it.

 

Thanks Myles for the chat