Takal Molson (193-G-1998, college: JMU) is a 25 year old 193cm guard that was born in Buffalo, New York and will play his second pro season with Payabl EKA AEL Limassol (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League). Last season he played his rookie season overseas with Vevey Riviera Basket (Switzerland-SBL) averaging 18.5ppg, 7.1rpg, Assists-5 (5.1apg), Steals-5 (2.0spg), FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 77.6%. He began his basketball career at ST Mary´s school playing basketball and football. He then enjoyed a 5 year NCAA career playing a total of 139 games. He began at Canisius College (NCAA) averaging 12.8ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 70.1%and 16.9ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 26.8%, FT: 75.4%. He then played a season at Seton Hall University (NCAA) averaging 5.3ppg, 2.9rpg, FGP: 42.1%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 70.2%. He finished at James Madison University (NCAA) averaging 12.3ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.6apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 75.0%and 11.3ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 71.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I’m currently home in Buffalo Ny and basketball is treating me great

You recently completed your rookie season with Vevey Riviera Basket (Switzerland-SBL) averaging 18.5ppg), 7.1rpg, Assists-5 (5.1apg), Steals-5 (2.0spg), FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 77.6%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake up call hit me daily waking up to mountains and lakes and in grocery stores where the prices were outrageous lol

You helped Vevey reach the playoffs. You lost a tough playoff series to Neuchatel. What kind of an experience was your rookie season and how did your game grow?

My rookie season was good and it helped me grow to realize what stage of my career I´m in and also the important of basketball to fans of clubs.

How important was it having an experienced guy like Ikenna Ndugb as your teammate at the guard position? He had had 2 years of G_League experience under his belt. What do you believe could you learn from his game?

It is always good to have an experienced guard on your team he was a tremendous help on and off the court for me hopefully we get to team up again. I learned a lot of things defensively on ball playing with Ikenna.

You had many great games in your rookie season, but how much did you cherish your 13/16/10 game in the 76-74 win over Nyon?

That 13/16/10 game is a representation of what I bring to the table and my versatility. That game happens to be one of the game I tend not to forget about.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player would best fit the description?

I think my NBA comparisons would be Jaylen Brown & Josh Hart in my opinion.

You’re a guy that can fill the stat sheet with ease. What do you feel is your biggest strength on the court?

My biggest strength on the court I feel is my mind/ IQ

You were a quarterback in high school. How much did quarterbacking help your court vision on the basketball court?

Being a QB and just playing football in general helps me basketball wise with physicality, rebounding, and defending.

You have always been a very active defender. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I think I´m a technical defender that uses my mind and weaknesses of opponents to disrupt things. I want to become a defender coaches don’t want anywhere near their actions.

You shot 36% from outside last season your best since your freshman season at Canisius. How do you see the development of your shot and do you feel you can eclipse 40% overseas?

I will have multiple season of shooting 40%. I am very confident in 3pt shooting moving forward

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?

Improving ball handling, my body, shotmaking

What´s the next step for you? Perhaps you will land in Germany? What do you know about the basketball in Germany and could you imagine playing there?

I’m not sure what my next steps are but if I do land in Germany I would love the opportunity and cherish it. I do t know much about Germany besides peers playing in Germany.

You played at Canisius College (NCAA) from 2017-2019 playing 64 games and averaging 12.8ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 70.1% and 16.9ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 26.8%, FT: 75.4%. You made big strides in your second season. How valuable was it for you being able to play for Reggie Witherspoon?

Given more opportunity my second year at Canisius with some older guys leaving promoted a breakout year. Playing for Reggie was great taught me about life and basketball.

In your second season you lost to Villanova and held your own against future NBA players like Bey, Paschall and Gillespie. How important was a game like this for your confidence knowing you could play against top talent?

I will always know and believe I can play with anyone regardless of what level I always feel I’m the best on the court.

You then played a season at Seton Hall University (NCAA) averaging 5.3ppg, 2.9rpg, FGP: 42.1%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 70.2%. You played 13 less minutes. How tough was this season where you suffered growing pains. What did you learn from this season?

Seton Hall didn’t go as expected but it taught me the business and political side of basketball in which I am forever grateful.

You then finished at James Madison University (NCAA) averaging 12.3ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.6apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 75.0% and 11.3ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 71.5%. You had very consistent stats. How do you feel did your game grow after your difficult Seton Hall season?

JMU gave me a chance to bounce back in a comfortable environment I am thankful for.

How did head coach Mark Byington groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Byington held me accountable day in and out and believed in me through tough times and shared his experiences which also helped me tremendously

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Terrence Edwards?

There isn’t many people who have beat me in 1v1 in college or before.

Who was the toughest player that you have played against in your life that reached the NBA?

There wasn’t a college player that reached the NBA that I feel I didn’t get the best of in the matchup. One teammate that gave me a great matchup was Myles Powell.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Malik Johnson, Marcale Lotts, Myles Powell, Anthony Nelson, Alonzo Sule

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Lebron, MJ, Kobe, Carmelo

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James.

Thanks Takal for the chat.

Amir Hinton (196-G-1997, college: Shaw, agency: Players Group) is a 26 year old 196cm forward that completed his fourth professional season and first season and first in Germany with Medipolis Science City Jena (Pro A) averaging 16.5ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 90.2%. In the 2022-2023 season he played with Al Wasl Dubai (United Arab Emirates-ULB). IN the 2021-2022 season he played with Kouvot Kouvola (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 21.6ppg, 6.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 84.2%. He played his rookie season with the Westchester Knicks (NBA G League) averaging 7.6ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 46.6%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 75.0%. He began his basketball career at Abington high school and then played at Lock Haven University (NCAA2) averaging 24.6ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.4apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 33.7%, FT: 81.2% and 23.4ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.8apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 83.0%. He finished at Shaw University (NCAA2) averaging 29.4ppg, 4.9rpg, 4.0apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 89.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Amir for talking to germanhoops.com. Your played your first season in Germany with Jena. What kind of an experience was it calling Germany home?

I enjoyed Jena It was different, but the fans and organization embraced me.

How big is the chip on your shoulder? You played junior varsity basketball in high school and in a way was a late bloomer and then had to prove yourself in the NCAA 2. How difficult has your basketball path been since high school?

Chip is very big because I’ve been the underdog my whole life. So I carry a big chip on my shoulders to not only prove that I am who I say I am but also to take care of my family doing what I love.

What did you appreciate the most about the organization of Jena? Did you sense that’ serious ambition of getting back to the easyCredit BBL?

I think there was a serious ambition but unfortunately we fell short, but the ambition was big.

Jena lost a tough 4 game series to Frankfurt. What was missing in the series for you advancing?

We were not healthy so of course that gives the other team an advantage. If we were fully healthy things would have been different for sure.

You averaged 16/4/1/1 stats in the season. What was your summary of how you played in Germany? Were you content with your season?

I Could of played much better.

The team had many talented Americans but explain a bit how special a guy like Rasheed Moore is on the court? Could his middle name be Mr versatility?

Rasheed gave us the life we needed playing many different positions for us, especially when we were short guys or needed someone to do the dirty work for us.

What was it like sharing the floor with fellow explosive scorer Blake Francis? How do you feel do you guys compliment each other best on the court?

With us you get the best of both words, with him spreading the floor with the 3 ball and me getting in between getting to my spots it’s really nothing you could do but hope we missed. it was lots of fun playing with Blake.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

Demar DeRozan, Karis Levert, Kevin Durant.

You’re a explosive scorer but also good defender. Is it fair to say that you’re a 2 way player?

Yes I believe I can impact both ends of the court with my scoring ability and being able to play the passing lanes etc.

You can fill the stat sheet with ease. What other strengths does your game have?

Rebounding is a part of my game that I think people over look, Of course I can say my scoring being able to post up, pick & roll knock the 3 down when I have to, I think I have many different strengths.

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

I am a patient defender. I like to wait till the right opportunity to get steals play the passing lanes etc

On what area´s of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?

Working on my 3point shot, Mid range, post game, footwork just all around work.

You played last season with Al Wasl Dubai (United Arab Emirates-ULB). What kind of an experience was that? Did you get invited to nay cool palaces?

It was cool to see the other side of the world and meet other cultures etc.

You played your second pro season with Kouvot Kouvola (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 21.6ppg), 6.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 84.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Just not being able to get the food I would like or just something simple as getting gas and it´s different.

How good was Finland for your mental state? It must have felt like Division 2 again where you were a walking bucket?

It was hard at first being so far from home but I got adjusted really fast also my coach allowed me to play more free there which made it 10 times easier. Being put in the right situation, that compliments your game an you will thrive absolutely.

You played your rookie season with Westchester. You saw exactly how the G-League can function. You averaged 32 minutes in the first 3 games averaging 19,0ppg. Then the minutes went up and down. Then in the next 32 games you played only 1 more game with 30 minutes. What did you learn about your G-League experience?

Politics

What was the best example that you saw that season where the NBA will always be a business first?

Politics is real everywhere but when your in it at the highest level you receive a different perspective on it.

You played your first 2 seasons at Lock haven (NCAA2) averaging 24.6ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.4apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 33.7%, FT: 81.2% and 23.4ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.8apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 83.0%. You played 46 games and was a walking bucket scoring in double figures in each game. What kind of player were you coming and what kind of player when you left?

I think I was so young when I first went to school I was still trying to understand the game from a different lens, I think when I left I understood different things.

How vital was head coach Mike Nestor in your 2 year development there? What besides giving you the green light helped you perform best there?

Putting me and position to thrive in his offense.

You had many great games there like almost recording a triple double against Cheyney and scoring 42 points against Mansfield PA. What was your fondest moment there?

I think getting my thousand point as a freshmen was pretty exciting

You played your senior year at Shaw University (NCAA2) averaging 29.4ppg, 4.9rpg, 4.0apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 89.4%. You upped your game again tremendously. How did your game grow that year?

I lived in the gym and had some of the best trainers in my corner. We also did a lot of studying film to improve many aspects of my game

You had 2 games going 55-61 from the free throw line and hit 27 and 28 free throws. How crazy is that? You will have teammates in Jena that won´t have that many attempts in a whole season.

I think it’s amazing how we work on different ways to draw fouls and manipulate the defender, it’s a beautiful thing.

You had big games including 52 and 49 points. But what was your fondest in game performance there?

I think tapping into a zone that I never tapped into before, where everything feels good.

How did head coach Joel Hopkins give you that last push senior year and get you ready for the pro´s?

I was on a strict schedule everyday I was already preparing myself to be a pro and have time management etc.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Davon Dillard?

Me of course

Who is the best player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA

Tremont Waters

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Allen Iverson, Kobe,Kevin Durant, Shaq, Lebron

Who is your GOAT and why?

Kevin Durant

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

I haven´t seen it lol but, just leave classic movies where they are.

Thanks Amir for the chat.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Chris Rollins in Rhondorf Germany 2024

Chris Rollins (198-F-1999, college: UAFS) is a 25 year old 198cm forward from Alabama that completed his second professional season in Germany and first with the SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt averaging 9,4ppg and 3,1rpg. Last season he played with the ART Giants Duesseldorf (Germany-ProA) averaging 5.4ppg, 2.7rpg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 57.1%. He began his basketball career at Hale County High School and then played 2 seasons at Wallace State Community College (JUCO) averaging 9.8ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 43.9%, FT: 65.7% and in his second season averaged 5.7ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 70.9%He then played at The University of Arkansas Fort Smith (NCAA2) from 2019-2022 playing a total of 71 NCAA 2 games averaging 6.5ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 49.3%, FT: 62.9% and in his second season averaged 14.1ppg, 8.3rpg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 100.0%, FT: 58.4% and in his last season averaged 13.5ppg, 6.9rpg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 72.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the end of his second season.

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

Hey Miles my bad for taking a while to get this back to you but the past month has just been flying by. I am sitting in my home in Alabama just listening to some music. Basketball is treating me well, our season is over now but I believe that I had a pretty good season and stayed healthy.

Your played your second professional season with the SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt. You came in January 2024. How tough was it finding a new team this season? How did you cope with it mentally best?

Man the market was so tough on me this past off season. I just kept my head up and grinded almost everyday just making sure I stayed ready for that call. I didn’t cope much at all, I was pretty excited to get to a new team with a fresh start.

What was it like living in the former eastern Germany as a kid coming from Alabama? Was it a culture shock?

It has been pretty peaceful for me. I like how quiet the town of Wolmirstedt is. Yeah there were a few things that I had to get used to but nothing too big.

The organization has been really ambitious to move up for years. How present was that ambitious feeling in the club?

It’s a pretty strong feeling you can feel throughout the organization. You feel that they try to run things as professionally as they can.

After playing in the Pro A with the Art Giants, was it difficult taking a step back to possibly taking one forward soon?

No, it wasn’t difficult at all. Last year I was just a rookie with a lot of potential caught in a bad situation. This season Eiko gave me the opportunity to show what I can bring to a team when given the usage.

How big is the chip on your shoulder after having played JUCO? I can imagine it never leaves you.

Being a Juco product is like a tag that never leaves. Nothing but dogs make it out of juco and excel up.

The club always built great rosters. What has it been like being teammates with the walking bucket Bill Borekambi? Can you count the incredible shots off both hands that you have seen this season?

Man Bill is my guy. I love watching him hit those tough turn around jumpers. It’s almost as if it doesn’t matter what the defender does, Bill is going to make the shot.

What has it been like being teammates with Spanish forward Diamond Onwuka? Did you guys have #a bond having played at JUCO? How did you guys make each other better?

I enjoyed my time with Diamond. He’s a good guy. I didn’t know that he was also a juco guy. We shoot together in the gym from time to time.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 198cm forward and compare your game to Jimmy Butler. Do you watch his videos to try to incorporate some things into your game?

Yes, I like to craft myself into a mixture of Jimmy and Kawhi. They both are big guards/fowards who play through contact but also have a pretty consistent jumper. Kawhi has a much better and consistent 3 ball but when the playoffs come around jimmy can do it all.

You can score and rebound the ball really well. What other attributes does your game have?

I believe that I am a high level defender because of athleticism and instincts. Especially when it comes to shot blocking and taking charges.

Your three pointer still seems to be a work in progress. What is the most vital in your shooting that will help you become a more consistent shooter?

Just to keep putting in work. I’m a gym rat and shooting is only keeping that same form as consistent as you can. I believe my 3 ball will continue to grow throughout my career along with the rest of my game.

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

Right now I think I’m a very versatile defender, because of my athleticism and strength I can guard 1-4. Being able to keep space in between me and a defender while also being able to contest a shot. In the future I just want to get better at help rotations and just being able to read opponents moves and passes at an even wilder level.

On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to grow as a player?

I want to be one of the best finishers on the court no matter who else is on the floor. I also want to continue to grow my scoring ability on all 3 levels. Off the dribble 3’s and 2’s and scoring on all one on one matchups.

Your cousin is NBA player Herb Jones. What kind of experience has it been spending time with him? How has he helped your game most? Possibly with your defense?

Man it feels good to have someone you’re close to playing on the biggest stage in the world. He is a very humble guy and he’s my cousin so it’s never really a wow moment. He just tells me small defensive and offensive tips that he has picked up. Some of them are real game changers if you can just create a habit of doing them. One of the things he’ll continue to let you know is to keep God first and you got to put in the work to keep growing in this game.

Chris Rollins and Herb Jones

Do you have a cool NBA story with him? Have you met NBA superstars?

We only talk basketball a little bit because it’s our everyday life but I do remember him telling me one time that after he blocked Kyrie Irving’s jumper he walked back up to Herb and told him “ You’ll never do that again.” I don’t know why but I think that’s pretty cool. Yeah I have met a couple of his teammates and former teammates. I’ll probably meet a few more soon when I go to train with him next month.

You played your rookie season with the ART Giants Duesseldorf (Germany-ProA) averaging : 5.4ppg, 2.7rpg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 57.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far way from home?

I didn’t really have a wake up call, it was really just the first day I really just sat there and noticed it was going to be many months before I got to see my family and friends again.

How tough was your rookie season? The team had many talented guards that needed the ball in their hands. What did you learn about the season?

It had its ups and its downs but I’m glad that I was able to go through and make it out of it. I learned to just do all I can while I’m on the court and no matter what your role is, continue playing hard and be effective in some way. I also learned to keep grinding even when things don’t look the brightest because the sun could come out at any time and it could be your time to shine.

What was it like being teammates with Booker Coplin? Did you ever see a player with his energy on the court? He seems to have been born with it.

Booker is one of my favorite teammates. Till this day we are in contact with each other often. I’m a high energy guy myself so you know I loved his energy on the court.

You began your basketball career at Wallace State Community College (JUCO) averaging 9.8ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 43.9%, FT: 65.7% and 5.7ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 70.9%. Every guy I have interviewed has said JUCO was tough, but a experience that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

Juco was some of my happiest times because for me it taught me to be grateful. I was blessed with the opportunity to continue playing basketball at the next level. It made me who I am today to have to stay mentally strong through whatever I was going through.

How key was head coach John Meeks in those 2 years. What was the most valuable thing that you learned from him?

I’d rather not speak on him.

You played at the The University of Arkansas Fort Smith (NCAA2) avergaing 6.5ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 49.3%, FT: 62.9% and 14.1ppg, 8.3rpg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 100.0%, FT: 58.4% in your second season and 13.5ppg, 6.9rpg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 72.2% in your third year. Your game really took off in your second year. How did your game grow in your last 2 years?

It was all in the work. After every season I looked at where I needed to get better and if you compare each season you can see the growth. After my first year I was unhappy with shooting below 50% as a post player so the following year I broke the school record and shot 62.5% from the field. That same season I shot a horrific 58% from FT and you see I came right back my next season and shot 72% from the line.

You had many great games there like scoring 25 points against HSU in a 81-80 win, but what was your most memorable game there?

My most memorable game at UAFS was taking down DBU as they were #3 ranked in the nation. I had a bunch of big plays in that game like the big 3 to give us the lead with a minute left to the charge at the end of game to take away their possession.

How did head coach Jim Boone groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Boone had a lot to do with my college growth. He also genuinely cares for all of his players and always tries to make sure we are taken care of, even after you leave his team. Before joining him at UAFS I was already one of the most hard working people without ever needing someone’s push. His old school mindset just made it more of a norm for me to grind day in and day out without needing anyone’s validation.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice, you or Herb Jones?

He says that he can beat me 7 to 0, but he has to be crazy if he thinks I’m not scoring a single basket. I put in too many unseen hours of work to be held to Zero in a one on one. Respectfully he did just make 1st Team All defense but I don´t care I´m going to score and i’ll bet on myself winning every time.

Who was the best player you played against in the NCAA that reached the NBA besides Herb Jones?

In the NCAA I don’t believe I have played against anyone that made it to the NBA.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Brian Halums

Herb Jones

Booker Coplin

Mathew Wilson

Ryan Richmond

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, Kobe, Jordan, Shaq. That’s in no order.

Who is your GOAT?

For me this is an easy question. Lebron James. There’s no other answer for someone born in this generation. He has been the most consistent player for the last 20 years. Plus his longevity of averaging 25+ pts, 7+ reb, and 7+ ast is crazy.

Thanks Chris for the chat.

For all those people that enjoyed sports as a kid and young adult, there is always that special moment that one will never forget. If it was hitting that game winning home run in little league, or making that game winning touchdown or game winning goal in soccer, there is always something that one can look back with joy. It wasn´t any different for me. It may be hard to believe, but basketball was not one of my main 3 sports growing up in high school, but it was soccer, ice hockey, and baseball/tennis. Coming from New England and living next to a lake, it was only logical to grow up playing ice hockey as I stepped on the ice for the first time at age 3. Basketball was always a big part of my youth life, but had to take a back step to ice hockey, but I played pick up basketball with my friends whenever I could during recces or after school. Going to prep school Avon old Farms school in Connecticut, it was only logical that I play ice Hockey. Avon Old Farms have had the distinction for decades as belonging to the top ice hockey schools in the country having produced countless NHL players including former Stanley Cup champions like Jonathan Quick and Nick Bonino. But the most famous player ever to put on a Avon jersey was Brian Leetch who won the 1994 Stanley Cup with the New York Rangers and is one of the best if not greatest American defenseman to ever play in the NHL and is in the Hockey Hall of fame. I had the pleasure of being at Avon when he was a senior. I was a 10th grader and on the third hockey team, while he was captain of the Varsity team. I remember being on the ice with him during Varsity try-outs knowing I would never make the team, but just knowing one day to be able to tell my grand children that I practiced with Leetch. I enjoyed playing sports at Avon and my fondest moment there was winning athlete of the week twice during the school year, an award that was given every week to the best performing student athlete. I won it for ice hockey and Tennis and was the only kid that year to win it twice. Current Fraport Skyliner Junior Marvin Esser (196-SF-2005) also has his fondest moment and surprisingly it wasn´t winning the German U-14 title with Eintracht Frankfurt, but 2 different things. “My 2 fondest moments so far as a basketball player was making an alley oop dunk in pre season against a Czech team and just being coached again by my U-14 coach Thore Bethke”, smiled Marvin Esser.

Marvin Esser who names current Oberaching forward Maxwell Temoka as his toughest opponent so far in his career was born on September 17th, 2005 and grew up in Bornheim a suburb of Frankfurt. Even if he stated that he had a normal childhood, it surely couldn´t have been an easy one. He suffered a tragedy when he was only 9 years old as he and his younger brother lost their father to suicide. “It was a crazy change as it came out of nothing. We got a lot of support from our mother and grandparents. We both were so young and didn´t understand why it happened”, stressed Marvin Esser. Luckily for him he had found a love to sports at a very young age. He enjoyed swimming and liked playing basketball in the park at age 5. It still took some years before he began to play organized basketball. At age 8, he signed up with the Fraport Skyliners U-10 team and has been with the organization ever since. He played with the U-12, U-14 teams, JBBL (U-16 team and last season was a key important member of the NBBL (U-19) team and also has played minutes for the Pro B team. Like so many young German boys his basketball inspiration was Dirk Nowitzki and growing up his favorite Skyliner players were legend Quantez Robertson known as Tez and the tall and always joking teammate Mike Morrison. He still possesses a Tez jersey that he bought when he was younger.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Marvin Esser at BCM 2024

The forward lists Lebron James as his GOAT played his third season with the NBBL team last season and continued to make strides with his game. In his first season he played 11 games averaging 3,2ppg and 2,5rpg while 2 seasons played 7 games averaging 5,4ppg and 5,4rpg. Last season he is averaging 7,7ppg, 6,1rpg and 1,76pg. He has made solid strides year by year, as his development has been more than visible in the last years. “I feel like my development has been good. I have gotten more athletic and physical and I´m not scared to do things with my game”, stressed Marvin Esser. He is a player that can show his versatility on every possession at both ends of the court. “I´m big and strong and help set screens so the guards can bring the ball up court. I have to do dirty work on the rim, but I like to do it. I like to help the team on the pick and roll, rebounding and just showing my presence inside”, warned Marvin Esser. He was on a team that had many scoring options with Dusan Nikolic and the Zentgraf brothers, so he had no real pressure to have to score, but on the other hand, these 3 guys are good creators as well so he did get his share of easy buckets inside. “The opponent focuses their defense on other players and not on me. It makes scoring for me a lot easier. I get a lot of back door baskets”, smiled Marvin Esser. One teammate with whom he has a great relationship with was Leif Zentgraf who was his teammate on the U-14 championship team in 2019. Zentgraf is one of those guys that won´t shy away from making that one extra pass inside and find him for the easy basket. “We can get mad at each other on the court, but overall we both know exactly what the other can do on the court”, commented Marvin Esser.

The 196cm forward who lists Lebron James, Steph Curry, Shaq and Michael Jordan on his NBA Mount Rushmore and Nikola Jokic, Doncic and Franz Wagner on his Euro Mount Rushmore is a player that had problems comparing his game to a professional player, so what better person to ask than his NBBL coach Thore Bethke who knows his game better than anyone else. He didn´t need much time to come up with 2 players. “I would compare his game as a mix between Jonas Wohlfarth-Bottermann and Leon Radosevic”, smiled Thore Bethke. Esser is the type of player every team needs. He is that classic glue guy that does so many important things including things that don´t always show up on the stat sheet. His athleticism is a big strength in his game and his jumping abilities often allow him to get rebounds that other guys might not get. His rebounding, setting screens and put backs are very valuable, but his defense also. “I think that I´m a solid defender at the moment. I do a good job inside, but I want to be better outside. I still get beat too often, but I´m working on it”, added Marvin Esser. He also knows that if he wants to continue to make continued steps in his game, he also will have to work on his approach to the game. “My will has to be better. Sometimes I become lazy and don´t give enough energy. In close games, I´m always there. But during blow outs, I tend to drift away mentally. I have to work on that as well as on my shot and finishing”, explained Marvin Esser. He also has been fortunate to also received minutes for the Fraport Skyliners Juniors who play in the Pro B. He has played 6 games averaging 7,3mpg and 2,5ppg and 1,7rpg. “In the Pro B the game is more physical and the opponents more skilled. I am fortunate to have seen minutes and have had some good games. I feel like I can develop well here”, stated Marvin Esser. His best game so far was against Coburg where he showed how versatile he can be and filled the stat sheet with a 9/8/2/1/1 game. If he had to pick one player that has had the biggest influence on him then it has been Jordan Samare. “I like to watch Jordan play. We are both big and athletic. He has the kind of shot that I want to have. I hope to be able to develop well the way he has the last years”, stressed Marvin Esser. So what is the long term goal of Marvin Esser? At the moment he is in 12th grade working to get his Abitur degree. He would like to go to university, but is still undecided about what he wants to study. As far as on the court, he has a goal. “I would like to become a pro, but at the moment, I don´t know how realistic it is. Whatever happens in the next years, I will still like to play basketball in some kind of capacity”, stressed Marvin Esser. The pro question is still down the road, but in the 2024-2025 season he will continue to work on his goal by playing Pro B with the Fraport Skyliners Juniors and 2Regionalliga for Eintracht Frankfurt

Isaiah Whaley (205-C-1998, college: UConn) is a 26 year old 205cm center from Gastonia, North Carolina that is playing his third professional season with Lokomotiv Kuban (Russia-VTB United League). Last season he played with the MLP Academics Heidleber averaging 11.4ppg, Reb-3 (7.2rpg), 1.2apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-5 (1.2bpg), FGP: 57.3%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 67.5%. He played his rookie season with G-League team Greensboro Swarm averaging 8.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 63.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 61.8%. Then he played with Astros de Jalisco (Mexico-CIBACOPA) averaging18.0ppg, Reb-3 (9.3rpg), 1.2apg, Blocks-1 (2.6bpg), FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 65.5%. He began his basketball career at Ashbrook high school, then played at Evelyn Mack Academy and finished at Mount Zion Baptist prep school. He then played at well known UConn from 2017-2022 playing a total of 134 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basket

Thanks Isaiah for talking to germanhoops.com. As a guy from North Carolina, how did you experience the breathtaking scenery of Heidelberg and seeing the castle`? How blessed were you beingv able to live in this historic city?

Yeah Heidelberg is absolutely beautiful. Everyday that I drive around in Heidelberg, I always find myself looking out in amazement with how everything looks. This is my first experience in general overseas so I feel really blessed for my experience here in Heidelberg.

After playing your rookie season in the G-League you are overseas for the first time in Germany with the MLP Academics Heidelberg. What did you learn to appreciate the most about the country Germany?

I appreciate how kind and passionate people are here. I didn’t know what to expect with playing and living in Germany, but my experience so far has been great. When I first got here, I didn’t understand a lot of things, and it would be a complete stranger around to help me and embrace me.

Your had a very solid season and have needed no adjustment period to Euro ball. What was your secret to being able to fit in without problems?

I think it has a lot to do with my upbringing in college. I played for a coach who required nothing less than %100 from you, so keeping that mentality has helped a lot.

With Ingo Freyer the club had a very experienced coach that is known for being able to save teams and likes the run and gun. How did you come to terms with his style?

I love his style. He likes us playing fast and free. That gives players confidence to just go out there and play their game.

After being clobbered by 26 points in Munich, you came back and won by 7 in Heidelberg. Did that winning atmosphere remind you of the NCAA and some of those arenas and energy of the fans?

It reminded me exactly of an NCAA game and I absolutely loved it. Those are the type of games that you live for as a basketball player. To go up against a great team in front of a great crowd, it was my favorite game of the season.

You had a sold game scoring 10 points against FC Bayern Munich. Was playing against a massive former NBA veteran like Serge Ibaka a highlight for you?

It definitely was. He was someone I looked up to earlier in my career with how he approached defense. It was definitely a cool feeling to go against someone you were watching on television growing up.

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

I’ll probably say someone like John Collin’s. Someone you can plug in different scenarios of the game. Undersized but able to use that as an advantage.

You can score, rebound, block shots and step out and take the three. Would you call yourself a modern day big man?

Yeah definitely. The modern big in today’s game is basically someone that can do a little bit of everything. Players like Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic have really changed the way Modern bigs are in today’s game.

You can do so much on the court, but what would you describe as a hidden talent in your game?

I think a hidden talent of mine is definitely my passing ability. It’s something that I want to show more on the court so it’s not so much hidden anymore.

You have been a very good defender since UConn. What kind of defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

At UConn I was a great shot blocker and pick and roll defender but I feel as if I’ve completely reshaped myself as a defender since being in Germany. I’m someone who feels comfortable with being switched on to guards while also being able to still guard bigs. I’m still a pretty good shot blocker but I feel as if I’m a more versatile defender now.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player?

I’m working a lot more on my game on the perimeter. I want to be a guy you can put in any situation and expect positive results.

You played your rookie season with the Greensboro Swarm (NBA G League) averaging 8.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 63.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 61.8%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

Really it was the long travel days and back to back games that really my wake up call.

How difficult was it getting minutes.You averaged 21 minutes per game and had ups and downs in your minutes. If you had had 10 minutes more, you could have had a NBA call up. Is there anything you can do as a player to up those minutes besides putting in the work daily?

Putting in work and being ready when your name is called is sometimes the only thing you can do in those situations which I learned. You have to just control what you can control and I had no control over the Hornets sending down guys to play and now my minutes get cut in half. It was something that was difficult for me to grasp but I became better from it

You saved your best for last netting 30 points in your last G-League game against the Raptors 905. Do you feel like you have NBA game?

I do feel like I have an NBA game. Defensively and offensively I think would fit right in.

You played at the well known UConn from 2017-2022. You left the season before they won back to back NCAA titles. Did you see this success coming after you left?

I definitely did see it coming. It’s something that I take pride in everyday that I was able to leave my mark there and watch guys that I went to battles with win.

You reached the NCAA tournament twice losing to Maryland and NM State. Which run was more memorable for you?

Probably the Maryland one. It was a long time since we made the tournament so it was a special feeling to finally bring us back there after some bad seasons.

You never averaged double figures in scoring in the NCAA, but talk about the special role that you had at UConn? Your minutes rose every season in your last 3.

My Role was the glue guy. I was someone that people didn’t really expect much from but I kept working and eventually earned a starting spot and eventually earned defensive player of the year. I brought the energy and passion.

You had many great games at UConn like scoring 17 against Seton Hall or blocking 7 shots against Butler. What was your greatest game in the NCAA?

It was probably my last year Against Villanova. Up until then, they would beat us every time but after we beat them that game, I feel as if that was the turning point for the entire program.

How did head coach Dan Hurley groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I honestly feel like he’s the reason why the transition to professional hasn’t been so difficult. He was super intense and wanted nothing but your best but you always knew it was from a place of love. I still carry many of his philosophies with me till this day.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Adama Sonogo?

It would go back and forth. There would be days where I would beat him and there were days where he would beat me but overall I feel as it was pretty even.

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

Probably Evan Mobley. Ge moves a quick and fast as a small guard so I would probably say him.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Tyler Polley Josh Carlton Brendan Adams Andrew Hurley Tyrese Martin

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan.

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

I actually have not seen it yet and probably won’t because I feel like it should’ve been left alone.

Thanks Isaiah for the chat.

Darius Perry (188-G-1999, college: UCF) is a 25 year old 188cm guard from Georgia that is playing his third professional season with ASP Promitheas Patras. Last season he played in the German easyCredit BBL with Wurzburg averaging 10.7ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 80.7%. He played his rookie season with Hubner Nyiregyhaza BS (Hungary-A Division) averaging 21.8ppg), 4.5rpg, 4.5apg, Steals-1 (2.3spg), FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 78.2%. He began his career with Wheeler high school and then played 3 seasons at the University of Louisville (NCAA) playing a total of 100 games. He finished his NCAA career with the University of Central Florida (NCAA) averaging 14.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 86.4% and in his senior year averaged 11.8ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 72.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Darius for talking to germanhoops.com. You played your second professional season in Germany with Wurzburg which was a big turnaround from your rookie season. What did enjoy most about the experience on and off the court?

I started out in Hungary with the Blue Sharks, a team based in Nyiregyhaza. My first season was rocky. I played okay individually, leading the league in scoring and finishing top 5 in assists, but as a team we struggled a lot to win games. This year with Wurzburg has been a complete 180. I can easily say the best thing about being on the court is the comradery and togetherness we play with. Everybody wants to win as badly as they want to survive, regardless of the outcome, this is a group of guys you can trust to do what is needed to win games. Off the court I just enjoy the city. It is the perfect pace for someone like me, not too fast and not too slow.

What was it like for a guy from Georgia to live in a historic country and Germany and beautiful city like Wurzburg? What did you cherish most about the country?

I am from a pretty historic place myself. Georgia is one of the original English colonies and one of the first states in the union. In addition, we have one of the greatest cities in the United States. We are home to some of the greatest athletes and musicians of all time. I wouldn’t necessarily say I cherish anything about the country to be honest. I live in a nice city that has some beauty to it. I think my favorite thing about the city is the Garden at the residence; it’s beautiful and serene.

Wurzburg is without a doubt the big surprise team of the season after Chemnitz. How much fun has it been being part of a special winning culture?

It has been a lot of fun. We have put in the proper amount of work to get where we are and we are proud of our progress, but the job is not yet finished. Throughout my entire life I have been a part of winning cultures so it feels good to be in a place I’m used to.

The team has put together 2 big winning streaks. How key was it finding a team chemistry early and what else is the teams biggest strength?

Extremely. Everyone bonding as well as we do on and off the court has been a huge key to our success.

The team has without a doubt a guy with one of the biggest hearts I ever saw with Otis Livingston. He is a guy that always is able to play his game to his best ability and lead the team as best as possible. How key has he been for the success of the team?

He has been a big part of our success for sure, but I think the credit goes to Javon Bess as far as leadership goes. Otis is a great player who has done an amazing job of leading us but I don’t think we are where we are without Javon Bess. The combination of Otis’ consistency and Javon’s leadership have been huge parts of why we are where we are.

Another special player has been Zac Seljaas, a player who seems to get a lot of press for his looks, but also play. Do you have a unique story about him?

I do not. He is a great guy though. Everybody loves Zac. There isn’t anything about him to dislike.

Isaiah Washington is known for his trick shots. What have you learned to appreciate most about his game?

Everything he does is read and react which makes him extremely hard to guard. He is extremely creative and can score on all 3 levels; not to mention his confidence is through the roof and he is an underrated passer. I’ve grown a lot of appreciation for Isaiah’s game during my time here.

Let´s talk about your game. You a 188cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

Over the years I’ve been asked that question a lot and I’m not sure of the answer. I think my game is unique. I’ve heard of some comparisons to Damian Lillard, Jrue Holiday and a few other players but I don’t think I play like anyone. I think my game is in a lane of its own.

You’re a guy that has always filled the stat sheet very well for a guard. How vital is versatility in your game?

Versatility is huge because within versatility lies necessity. The ability to fill the stat sheet is a small description of my ability to do whatever is needed of me on the court. As long as I can continue to do that my value will remain high for any team because guys like that are hard to come by.

You have always been a solid three point shooter, but never reached the 40% plateau. What is missing for you to reach that?

Shot selection and consistency. As a lead guard trying to figure out the game and gain trust from both the coaches and teammates I can tend to second guess things on the court sometimes. This has resulted in me not shooting the ball to the best of my ability throughout my career. Something I need to deal with sooner than later.

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

I think I am an underrated, elite defender currently. I want to keep improving on both ends. I don’t think I’ve reached my full potential on either end and that excites me. As far as defending goes I want to be able to be more disruptive while still containing my assignment and/or positioning. I also want to get better at anticipating and moving laterally. I think both go hand and hand. If I can improve in these areas, I don’t see anyone who can get around me while I’m locked in.

On what area´s of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player?

Confidence and poise. I think I have a lot of tools to my game that no one has seen. It’s easy to judge my game based on what you’ve seen, but it’s difficult to really have a grasp on my ability until you’ve seen me workout. I think I need to create a level of confidence that misses conceitedness and arrogance by a hair. Mixing this in with the poise of a wise man would grow my game extraordinarily in my opinion. There are obviously nuances to my game that can be critiqued and improved, but I think these two areas are the biggest flaws in my game.

Last season you played with Hubner Nyiregyhaza BS (Hungary-A Division) averaging 21.8ppg), 4.5rpg, 4.5apg, Steals-1 (2.3spg), FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 78.2%What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake up call was in our first game when we got beat by 25 to a team that did not pass the eye test at first glance. I played well but that game made me understand how much experience and pace played a role in the game regardless of the amount of talent you have.

How important was your rookie season in Hungary for your game and self-confidence to be able to make the next step in Germany?

It was more important for me to get a foot in the door and make a name for myself overseas. I am very aware of what I can do and Hungary didn’t deny or confirm any of my beliefs in myself. It showed me some things I needed to work on if I wanted to be a premiere guard in any league and it showed me how physical the European leagues could be, especially when you are the guy they have to stop. Germany was a move of strategy. Moving to a location where I could improve as a player was much more important to me than moving to a location just to be “the guy” on another team.

You played at Louisville (NCAA) from 2017-2020. You never averaged more than 5,2ppg in a season. What positives could you get from this 3 year experience?

Not really sure how to answer this one. During my 3 year experience I learned how imperative it is to gain your coach’s trust. It also taught me that everyone is different. The same things that may have aroused one person do the complete opposite for another. Lastly I believe it taught me to seize your opportunity. If you play 5 minutes or 30 minutes, show what you can do in those minutes given.

You witnessed 2 coaches at Louisville with David Padgett and Chris Mack. How did these coaches help your game best?

They helped me learn to fight through adversity and play under control.

You were teammates 3 years with Jordan Nwora. How do you remember him as a player and what was your personal nicest moment with him?

He has always been able to shoot the ball really well since I’ve known him. Me and Jordan were pretty close so I can’t pinpoint the nicest moment we had. Maybe the week we spent at the Kentucky Derby, that was pretty fun.

You reached 2 NCC tournaments with Louisville and in the second run had a good game against Minnesota. What memories do you have of that game?

I was given the opportunity to play and I took it. I thrive best in do or die moments and that’s what that was.

You then moved to the University of Central Florida (NCAA) averaging 14.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 86.4% and 11.8ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 72.5%. How did your game grow in these 2 years there?

UCF was home to some of the best kept secrets. There were players there who had talent and skills like you’ve never seen. Being able to compete against them everyday helped me grow my game in ways I wouldn’t have thought to before.

You played for head coach Johnny Dawkins. How did he groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

By treating us like professionals in practices and games.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Darius Johnson who has developed great at UCF?

Me

Who was the best player you played against in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

The best player I played against didn’t reach the NBA. The best player I played against was Frank Howard who went to Syracuse my freshman year of college. I’m pretty sure he was a senior at the time but I could be wrong.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

If you are talking about talent/skill:

Ray Spalding

Jaylen Brown

Zion Williamson

Collin Sexton

Wendell Carter

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

1. Kobe Bryant

2. Michael Jordan

3. Kyrie Irving

4. Lebron James

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe Bryant

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

I didn’t see it.

Thanks Draius for the chat.

Elijah Childs (201-F-1999, college: Bradley) is a 25 year old 201cm forward from Missouri playing his third professional season and first with the MLP Academics Heidelberg. He started this season with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg (Germany-BBL) averaging 9.3ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 63.3%, 3FGP: 25.0%, FT: 77.3% and in the BCL averaged 7.8ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 51.0%, 3FGP: 25.0%. Last season he played with the Bakken Bears Aarhus (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 13.5ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 60.3%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 64.9%; and in the BCL averaged 10.8ppg, 6.9rpg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 80.0%. He played his rookie season with 2B Control Trapani (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 14.9ppg, Reb-1 (9.8rpg), FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 70.3%. He began his basketball career at Lee Summit West High School and then played at Bradley (NCAA) from 2017-2021 playing a total of 132 games. He averaged 14,0ppg and 8,0rpg in his last 3 seasons. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Elijah for talking to germanhoops.com. As a guy from Missouri how did you experience the breathtaking scenery of Heidelberg and seeing the castle’? How blessed did you feel being able to live in this historic city?

I am doing well, thank you for this opportunity to speak with EuroBasket. Basketball is blessing me right now, I am in a great position. Since Being in Heidelberg I have enjoyed the scenery, the people, and the castle. I think I have adapted well to this beautiful city and the people have welcomed me with open arms. Heidelberg is a great city but I feel like I am super blessed to even live in Europe. Where I am from not a lot of people get to do that. I am very grateful for the opportunity this amazing city and basketball club offered

After playing in Italy and Denmark and for the first time your in Germany with the MLP Academics Heidelberg. What did you learnto appreciate the most about the country Germany?

What I learned to appreciate the most about Germany is the opportunity it provides. I appreciate and honored to play for MLP Academics Heidelberg. The whole organization is first class from top to bottom.

Your averaged 11 minutes more than in Ludwigsburg. How was your role different in Heidelberg?

My role in Heidelberg is not that much different than in Ludwigsburg. But In Heidelberg I am asked to do much more offensively. And now I believe people are seeing what I am capable of doing and more. I am still asked to rebound the basketball and play tough physical defense just like in Ludwigsburg

Heidelberg fough to remain in the easyCredit BBL. How confident were you that Heidelberg would stay in the league?

I was very confident that we could execute coaches game plan, play tough defense, and run on offense then we could beat anyone

With Ingo Freyer the club has a very experienced coach that is known for being able to save teams and likes the run and gun. How did you come to terms with his style?

I will first say I love coach Ingo Freyer. He is really a player’s coach. He gives you confidence to play your game and not worry about anything else. Playing for Coach Ingo and playing his style of basketball is one of the best decisions I made. Playing this style of basketball I think has brought out the best In me.

After being clobbered by 26 points in Munich, you came back and won by 7 in Heidelberg. Did that winning atmosphere remind you of the NCAA and some of those arenas and energy of the fans?

Winning by 7 in Heidelberg was a great feeling. Not only for me but for the whole city of Heidelberg. Anyone who was cheering for MLP Academics then that was for them. That atmosphere and those fans meant business that day. Playing in that arena definitely reminded me of playing in March Madness. I love those type of arenas and to play on that stage against a good Munich team, I couldn’t ask for more. Then it was time to do something special and we did.

You had a sold game scoring 7 points against FC Bayern Munich with Ludwigsburg. Was playing against a massive former NBA veteran like Serge Ibaka a highlight for you?

I don’t think playing against Serge Ibaka was a highlight for me. I treated it as another game we were trying to win. In my mind I was thinking I’m trying to get to where he’s been and where’s he at in his career. So I’m thinking I have to show what I can do, I have to bring the fight to him. Credit to him, he’s a great player back then and even now. Very tough matchup but I enjoyed it.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I never really compared myself to anyone in the NBA. I always thought I was a little different . I think I tried to pick up different things from different players. Such as Julius Randle rebounding when he played at Kentucky. Carmelo Anthony face up game. Chris Bosh pick and pop game or Lamarcus Aldridge midrange shot. Those are a few players I tried to learn from.

You have been versatile your whole career. What is the biggest strength in your game?

I really thank you for calling me versatile. I appreciate that, I really try to be. I think my biggest strength in my game is I don’t need the ball to impact the game. Another strength to my game is I add a little bit of everything while I am on the court. A steal here or 2 block shots there. Another strength of mine is my defense and rebounding.

You are an incredible rebounder for 201cm. How do you want to make the next step as a rebounder?

I think the next step as a rebounder is too not get bored with rebounding the basketball. Don’t lose sight of why rebounding the basketball is so key to winning games. For me I think I just have to keep using my quickness and hitting them before they hit me.

You have been a very good defender since your NCAA days. What kind of defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

The defender I am now is still the same defender I once was. I still have the physicality, the grittiness, the ‘want’ too. Maybe not it has intensified since my NCAA days. I never wanted to be a liability on the court. And the defender I want to become has still yet to be unlocked. I want to be guarding the other team’s best player position 3-5 I want to be that defensive player of the year. I want to be one of those defenders that you hate to play against but love to have on your team. I believe I will get there.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player?

The areas of my game that are in constant work is my 3pt shooting, dribbling, and making decisions. I am working on not hesitating when I’m out there. Coach Freyer tells me to either shoot right away or drive it right away, no in between. If I work on those things while keep getting stronger and taking proper care of my body sky is the limit with me.

You began the season with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. Why was your stay so short? Did you get lost in the roster shuffle?

Shoutout to MHP Risen Ludwigsburg, that club is another first class organization. Shoutout to Josh King and the whole staff for giving me an opportunity in the BBL and my second year of champions league.

Last season you played with the Bakken Bears Aarhus (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 13.5ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 60.3%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 64.9% and winning the Danish league title. What was so unique about this team?

I have to give another shot out to the Bakken Bears. Some of the most professional and nicest people you will meet. For me what was unique about the Bakken Bears and the team was it my first year in Champions League. My first time really traveling Europe to play international competition. My first time playing two games a week. Too win the Danish league title was amazing. I had some great veterans on that team that took me under their wing and showed me what it is to be professional on and off the court.

You couldn’t have been teammates with 2 better winners than Skyler Bowlin and Ryan Evans. How vital were these 2 guys for the success of the team?
I agree with you, Ryan Evans and Skyler Bowlin played a significant role in my time with the Bakken Bears. First off they are great guys, like real genuine guys. Guys that I went to for advice, this is two veterans that got me through the hard days. Made sure I was professional even when it wasn’t good for me. They were significant in a lot of my success there. I still talk to those guys till this day. It was special.

You played your rookie season with 2B Control Trapani (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 14.9ppg, Reb-1 (9.8rpg), FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 70.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My rookie season overseas I think was my wake up call that I was far from home, how far I travelled to get to Trapani. When I got there nobody spoke English so I’m trying to Google translate words at the store. Everything was different, everyone was looking at me when I would go out. I’m telling myself, I am in a whole different world.

You played at Bradley (NCAA) from 2017-2022 winning 2 MVC titles, but only playing in 1 NCAA tournament because Covid cancelled the second one. You beat N Iowa and Valpo for the title. Which one was sweeter?

Beating Nothern Iowa in the championship game was definitely more sweeter. We came back from 20 down at halftime, it was our first championship in a long time. First time going to March Madness. Playing Michigan state in the first round. It was sweeter because we actually got to go to the tournament.

What were your memories of the March Madness loss to Michigan State where you scored 19 points. You showed that you were one of the best players on the court with some future NBA players.

I still think about that first round game against Michigan State because going into that game we really felt like we could win. We felt we could have went to the sweet 16 that year. My best memory from the game is when I got a block on one end and got a fast break dunk on the other. Then Cassius Winston trying to block the ball while it’s happening.

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

Coach Brain Wardle and the whole staff is a big part of why I am a professional today. He taught me how to keep a level head through everything in life, on and off the court. He would always tell me ‘never get to high, never get to low, stay in the middle. When your in the middle nobody can stop you’ that stayed with me till this day. Brian Wardle and the whole staff taught me what hard work really is and how consistent you have to be to be a professional.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Donte Thomas?

Me and Donte Thomas have never played 1-1 in practice but during live play I’m sure he got some buckets on me and I have some on him. Maybe Donte more buckets on me but I think now Donte can’t guard me.

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

I say this in a very humble way. I’m not taking anything away from those guys. They are in the NBA and I’m not. Salute to them . I have always felt and believed I was better than the guys I played or I matched up equally with them.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I have more than 5 teammates I loved playing with. My five best teammates I have played with is Skylar Bowlin, Tone Carr, Federico Massone, Deisure Buie, Deng Adel.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

My personal Mount Rushmore would be Lebron James, Lebron James, Lebron James, Lebron James, Lebron James

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

I did not see the sequel Coming to America but I have heard it is not good.

Thanks Elijah for the chat.

Ricky Easterling (189-G-1983, college: Bridgewater) is a 40 year old professional player having played 18 seasons in Germany and an incredible 16 seasons for Saarlouis. He played 14 years in the Regionalliga and 2 years in the Pro B with Saarlouis. He is known as being one of the greatest Regionalliga players ever having averaged 20,0ppg in 11 seasons and led the pro B in scoring twice. He played at Bridgewater College (NCAA3) before coming to Germany in 2006.He spoke to germanhoops.com about the 2024 Olympic basketball tournament.

Thanks Ricky for talking to germanhoops.com. It´s Olympics time. Is the basketball competition one that excites you with the team USA on board with many of their absolute best. Can one still call them a Dream team?

It’s always a pleasure my brother! Olympics definitely excites me because we (usa) have some of our top players on board. Good luck the rest of the world dealing with this USA team!

Team USA had to seriously buckle down against South Sudan and Germany. Are these 2 of the best examples that not only has the world caught up in basketball, but could beat this team in crunch-time with perhaps a little more luck and no Lebron James?

In my opinion these games are so close because team USA has to find their identity. None of them play together as a group during the year. So Each player needs to understand their role and figure out how to play with each other. I’m not saying that the world is not catching up but in this case I believe it was the lack of time together for team USA. Once that happens it’s over for the rest of the world.

Germany played an incredible game and gave Team USA all they had but lost by 4 as Lebron James saved the day. About how far is Team USA from being 100% ready for the Olympics?

We got a long way to go. If team USA puts it together and plays to their potential, like they will!!!! No teams have a chance vs USA.

Lebron James showed again why he is still the best in the world scoring 20 points in the fourth quarter and the team´s last 11 points to silence Germany. Was that performance about as Jordan as it gets?

I don’t like to compare them two because they are too different players. So for me that was very “Lebron like” to take over the game and put his team on his shoulders! He’s done this his whole career and this was just another day at the office for LBJ!

Kevin Durant didn´t play. How vital is he for Team USA and is his presence the difference from say a nailbitter win and more comfortable win by 10 points?

We are already a couple games deep into the group play and as we seen vs Serbia He was the difference maker. Showcase game was much closer without KD then with KD in the group games. KD is very vital to team USA success.

It seems at times Team USA takes plays off and does too much isolation which is normal from NBA guys and guys that have super individual qualities. What is still missing from Team USA to be able to win games more comfortably?

Team play and every player needs to understand their role, buy into what the coaching staff wants them to do and be discipline. Playing for team USA is totally different then playing in the NBA.

Devin Booker and Jayson Tatum looked invisible in the Germany game. How vital is it getting these 2 guys more involved in the offense on a team where every guy is a walking bucket?

They are there to play defense and make open shots. It’s a hard adjustment for a go-to player to turn into a role player overnight. Give them time and once they figure out their role they will make more of a impact for the team.

Team USA looked good on defense and then on other plays not so good. In between, they made huge athletic blocks. What do they need to tighten up most there?

They need to tighten up on the fundamentals of team defense. Different roles and lack of time together makes that difficult at the start but game by game I believe things will get better. Then you will see more consistency on the defense side of the floor.

Team Germany played a spirited game. How good do they look? They are a team that showed at the World Cup that they were able to keep developing as a team as the tournament went on. Do they have pressure as the World cup champion?

I’m very happy for Germany. They did a good job building a contender with their national team. There should not be any pressure on them to win it all. In my opinion the world championships are watered down tournament. Not all top players play for their national team during these tournaments. So we have to keep that in mind as well. So with that in mind people should understand that the Olympics will be harder because countries are playing with full rosters. I wish them the best but personally I’m not expecting them to win it all. Maybe they will make the final four. I think for Germany that should be the goal once you put the situation in perspective.

Dennis Schroeder had a solid 13/10 game in 17 minutes despite having a bad shooting day. Can he take his game to another level despite being the 2023 World Cup MVP?

He just needs to be himself. Play his game and play hard like he always does. If he stays his way, I think at times you will see Dennis at the MVP level we seen in the WC.

Sharp shooter Andi Obst continues to make incredible bombs from outside. Could he finally get an NBA chance after a successful Olympics?

If he keeps it up the Lakers should sign him. LOL Lebron always needs a couple good shooters around him and Obst can definitely shoot.

Germany and USA will advance form their groups, but how tough is that group A with Canada, Spain, Greece and Australia. Who won´t survive there?

That’s crazy all those power houses are in one group. I think the Olympic committee should have done a better job splitting up the groups. I think Canada will be the team to come out of that group.

South Sudan showed their fighting qualities against Team USA. Do you see a sleeper going far in this competition?

I don’t really see a sleeper coming out of this tournament. I think from top to about 6th place any one can beat anyone on any particular day. But after that I don’t see anyone sneaking up from out of no where to be a top team in their group. Sudan is no longer a sleeper for me. They got NBA and NCAA D1 players on their team. So expect them to win some games.

Please predict the 3 medals and who will capture them?

1st USA * 2nd Canada * 3rd Germany

What would be the score between Dream Team USA 1992 and Team USA 2024 in a game?

I will play this game on Nba 2k and let you know what happens LOL!!! Because I honestly can’t call it. As much as I want to say one group is better than the other I don’t really think on team is clearly better than the other. So I’m going to plead the fifth on this one!

Thanks Ricky for the chat.

Kelvin Omojola (183-G-1997, college: Northwest) is a 27 year old 183cm point guard that played his third professional season and third in Germany and first with the Dragons Rhondorf helping them win the pro B title averaging 12.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-2 (6.1apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 79.5%. In 2022-2023 he played with PS Karlsruhe (Pro A) averaging 3,1ppg and as a rookie played with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (Germany-ProB) averaging 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 71.8%. He began his basketball career at Green Valley high school and then played at Red Deer (JUCO), Benedict College (NCAA2) averaging 9.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 66.7% and Northwest University (NAIA) averaging 7.4ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 62.1% and 13.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 54.2%, FT: 87.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the 2024 Olympic games basketball tournament.

Thanks Kelvin for talking to germanhoops.com. It´s Olympics time. Is the basketball competition one that excites you with the team USA on board with many of their absolute best. Can one still call them a Dream team?

Hey Miles, USA has a great roster. In my opinion they’re not a dream team, but a great team that is constructed perfectly. I still believe they’re the best team in this year’s Olympics.

Team USA had too seriously buckle down against South Sudan and Germany. Are these 2 of the best examples that not only has the world caught up in basketball, but could beat this team in crunch-time with perhaps a little more luck and no Lebron James?

Yeah there’s great players all over the world. I think any team could be beat on any given night, but USA still has the best team nonetheless.

Germany played an incredible game and gave Team USA all they had but lost by 4 as Lebron James saved the day. About how far is Team USA from being 100% ready for the Olympics?

I think they’re ready now. KD didn’t play in the exhibition games and USA was trying to find their rhythm.

Lebron James showed again why he is still the best in the world scoring 20 points in the fourth quarter and the team´s last 11 points to silence Germany. Was that performance about as Jordan as it gets?

Jordan? That’s Bron! That’s a classic GOAT performance from the GOAT. He showed why he’s the best of all time and still great even at 40 years old.

Kevin Durant didn´t play. How vital is he for Team USA and is his presence the difference from say a nailbitter win and more comfortable win by 10 points?

He’s extremely vital. He brings an element that Team USA doesn’t have, let alone another country.

It seems at times Team USA takes plays off and does too much isolation which is normal from NBA guys and guys that have super individual qualities. What is still missing from Team USA to be able to win games more comfortably?

In the exhibition they were taking some plays off, but when official Olympic play starts they won’t do that. Too much on the line.

Devin Booker and Jayson Tatum looked invisible in the Germany game. How vital is it getting these 2 guys more involved in the offense on a team where every guy is a walking bucket?

They’re not the main players on this years team, so they need to do the things that Team USA needs, like defense and shooting.

Team USA looked good on defense and then on other plays not so good. In between, they made huge athletic blocks. What do they need to tighten up most there?

They just need to continue to keep their energy and intensity high all game.

Team Germany played a spirited game. How good do they look? They are a team that showed at the World Cup that they were able to keep developing as a team as the tournament went on. Do they have pressure as the World cup champion?

Germany is tough! They showed why the won the World Cup last summer! They’re a great team led by Dennis. But no, they have zero pressure. USA always has pressure because they’re supposed to win no matter what.

Dennis Schroeder had a solid 13/10 game in 17 minutes despite having a bad shooting day. Can he take his game to another level despite being the 2023 World Cup MVP?

Yes he can, he’s a great player and he’s shown before he can take his game to another level.

Sharp shooter Andi Obst continues to make incredible bombs from outside. Could he finally get an NBA chance after a successful Olympics?

I believe Andi could get an opportunity! You never know what could happen or who is watching.

Germany and USA will advance form their groups, but how tough is that group A with Canada, Spain, Greece and Australia. Who won´t survive there?

Oh that group is tough, but honestly, I think Greece won’t survive. Canada will for sure move on, but Spain and Australia can be either one.

South Sudan showed their fighting qualities against Team USA. Do you see a sleeper going far in this competition?

YES! South Sudan has a great team with high level players, and they have a great coach in Royal Ivey. They will make some noise for sure.

Please predict the 3 medals and who will capture them?

USA wins the gold, Canada wins silver, and Germany with the Bronze.

What would be the score between Dream Team USA 1992 and Team USA 2024 in a game?

That’s tough, the dream team was loaded. But, I believe it’s a different game now and Team USA 2024 would win. 102-98 would be the final score in my humble opinion.

Thanks Kelvin for the chat.

Sometimes it is amazing, incredible, mindboggling and hard to believe what can happen to a person in only 9 months. But then again when your talking about Jermaine Bucknor (201-PF-1983, college: Richmond) who is a mix of hard nosed competitor and generally very nice guy, it isn´t. What he achieved and experienced in the last 9 months, one could say was simply unbelievable. “It is crazy standing here as NBA champion. I´m at a loss for words”, said Jermaine Bucknor. Thank God, he still had enough words for me to recap the last 10 months in his basketball life. Let me rewind about 10 months and a few weeks ago. It was the day before the World Cup Gold medal game between Germany-Serbia and game for third place between USA-Canada, which really felt like the real final, but really wasn´t. I will never forget the line from him. “I have a new coaching job lined up, but can´t announce it yet”. I was excited and wondering what it could be. Would he finally coach an easyCredit BBL team in Germany? How wrong I was. Soon after it was known that he would be a player development coach for my hometown team Boston Celtics. My favorite basketball team growing up that gave me my own Goat Larry Bird and introduced me to legendary play by play man Johnny Most when I was a pre teenager listening to his broadcasts under the covers at night. 9 months later, the Canadian still had a clear mind despite experiencing incredible daily things in the NBA. “It is crazy all that happened in the last 9 months. I remember our interview. I couldn´t tell you at that moment that I had the Celtics job and had to keep it to myself”, stated Jermaine Bucknor.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Jermaine Bucknor in Koblenz, Germany in September 2022

Kristaps Porzingas, Jermaine Bucknor and Derrick White

I reach Jermaine Bucknor in Boston a few hours before the 2024 NBA draft and as imaginable he is feeling like he is on top of the world. “Life is good. I´m fresh off an NBA title. In the basketball world, there isn´t much you can complain about. It has been an incredible experience”, stressed Jermaine Bucknor. Obviously becoming an NBA champion is an incredible feat, but what is even more unique is getting a job in the NBA. Bucknor had had a celebrated professional career playing 15 seasons mostly overseas and becoming a legend in Trier where he spent 8 seasons as player and at the end as coach in 2023. How in the world do you go from being a second division coach in Germany to becoming a player development coach in the NBA? It is so true what they say. It is all about who you know. Connections are vital everywhere in life. “Last summer I was asked by my friend Anthony Dobbins to help at the NBA Summer League. He was an assistant coach with the Celtics. Little did I know that that was like a 3 week job interview where head coach Joe Mazzulla and Brad Stevens evaluated my work. I guess they liked my work ethic and skill set. At the end of the summer, Joe called me and offered me a job”, stated Jermaine Bucknor. Dobbins had a stellar 13 year pro playing career overseas and was teammates with Bucknor at the University of Richmond. One has to wonder if coming to Boston from Trier was like a culture shock. It must have been a massive adjustment for him? “It really wasn´t. I mean I had played against high level caliber people similar in talent like Lebron James and Kobe Bryant back in the day with the Canadian national team. To be honest coming to the Celtics organization was like a fresh breath of air. How the organization is run and level of professionalism is exactly how I am. I was working with people that were like me. The way they work is something I have always been striving for to be a part of. I remember people warning me that in December/January, may be a period where I may wear down because of the heavy travel, but it never was. I mean I went from 10 hour bus rides from Trier to Bremerhaven to flying charter and living in the best hotels. I couldn´t complain about the travel. It was a lot of travel, but I enjoyed it”, commented Jermaine Bucknor.

Jaylon Brown and Jermaine Bucknor

Being in the Boston Celtics organization was truly like an easyCredit BBL reunion. Currently there are 4 ex BBL players with the Boston Celtics organization and 3 played for John Patrick with Maine farm team assistant coach John Little, Bucknor and Charles Lee who will be head coach of Charlotte next season. Phil Pressey played a season with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. “It was crazy being able to work with these guys. I played with John Little in Wurzburg and played against Lee when he played with BG Goettingen. We often talked about our days in the BBL. Sometimes we came in saying wie gehts and spitting German phrases”, laughed Jermaine Bucknor. His day as player development coach were never dull. He was responsible for individual and group work. He would prepare game plans concerning 11 NBA opponents. He would submit the game preps to assistant coach Sam Cassel and review it and then submit it to Joe Mazzulla. He worked with many Celtics, but developed a special bond to ex Michigan State and Memphis Grizzlies forward Xavier Tillman who came to Boston in February. “X and I formed a close bond. We have similar personalities and playing styles. He is a kind individual off the court and a different animal on the court. Kind of like me where you find that balance of being kind and turning into a dog when it´s time to compete. We had a lot of shooting competitions. I think I was able to help his confidence with his jump shot and improve his three”, said Jermaine Bucknor. But he didn´t only work with Tillman, but had the pleasure and incredible experience alongside Tony Dobbins with working closely on a daily level with superstar Jaylen Brown and veteran Al Horford. You would think that guys like that don´t need to learn anymore, but it´s exactly the mind set from exceptional players like that that added to the incredible winning culture of the Boston Celtics. “I remember playing against Horford back in the day with Canada when he was with the Dominican Republic. The reason why we won the title is because of guys like him. He may be a veteran, but is constantly learning. He is a lifetime learner. Early in his career, he wasn´t a three point shooter, but he always worked on it and now is an incredible shooter. He is constantly getting better and is why he dominates the game. Jaylen is a beast and is always learning and he listens”, warned Jermaine Bucknor. He also worked with superstar Jayson Tatum. Is he a top 5 NBA player after the title win? “You have to realize that he is 206cm. He is so strong and has so much confidence. Seeing his dedication and how he works each day was amazing. He just wants to win. I believe that he was a top 5 player already before the title. I think that you can also put Brown in that category. I feel like he doesn´t get the needed credit. People don´t realize his importance at both ends of the court. He reminds me of Kawhi Leonard when he was with Toronto. Brown is the best 2 way player in the NBA”, stressed Jermaine Bucknor.

Jermaine Bucknor and Jayson Tatum

The Boston Celtics breezed through the NBA playoffs. Was there that deciding moment where Bucknor knew that the Celtics would win the NBA title? “I think when Payton Prichard made that half court shot in game 5 was the moment where I felt like we could win it all. Important was that we never looked to far ahead. We always went day by day and didn´t skip any steps and always made the needed adjustments. I knew that we had a great team, but just had to execute our game plan”, added Jermaine Bucknor. In the last years there were many critics who always said again that Boston just didn´t have enough to win it all. What was different this season? “I think what was different was our dedication and belief and great leadership. Mazzulla is a brilliant basketball mind and he really cares. It began with him and it trickled down on everyone else. Also the players are all selfless and care about winning first before accolades. They are all such great human beings and that also trickled down to their games. The only thing that matters in Boston is winning and we rode with the culture”, warned Jermaine Bucknor. Would the Boston Celtics have won the chip without Jrue Holiday and was Derrick White the team´s unsung hero? “I honestly think that this team was one of the most dominant teams in NBA history. I think even if he didn´t play, we could have won the title. Jrue is a great teammate and with him, we were a much much much better team. He brings so much in the locker room. White also is a great teammate and locker room guy. It is incredible to watch Holiday and White on defense. White is so intelligent. He has great shot making and playmaking. Yes he was our unsung hero”, stated Jermaine Bucknor. Winning the title was an amazing feeling for him, but what was it like experiencing the massive Celtics parade in downtown Boston? “That parade was the most incredible thing that I have ever seen in person. There were over 1 million people there. Some said there were 1,5 million present. I have never seen so many crowds of people. I don´t know how they physically got into spaces. You couldn´t see the ground, but just saw heads for miles. It was great seeing all the happy fans and their excitement. So many were crying. The whole city was behind us”, said Jermaine Bucknor. The city of Boston saw a dynasty with Bill Russell in the 60´s and a second in the 80´s with Larry Bird. Is a third dynasty on the horizon now? “I can´t predict the future, but if the Celtics are able to keep the 2024 group together and stay healthy then there is a lot this group can accomplish”, warned Jermaine Bucknor.

In 9 months, he met so many incredible basketball legends and worked with so many incredible people and even beat Celtics legend and NBA hall of famer Paul Pierce in a 3 point shooting contest. He will always have unending stories to tell his grandchildren. “I saw so many different faces. I worked closely with Jeff Van Gundy. I sat next to him at every coaches meeting and was always able to pick his brain. I also worked closely with Sam Cassell. I remember when we were in Indiana, I was able to talk with Reggie Miller for a few minutes. Chatting with Rajon Rondo and Paul Pierce on a regular basis was also nice. Having guys like them and Eddie House come in and spend time in the culture as much as them was great. Pierce and House were incredible with their consistency. There were many that doubted us, but they were always in our corner. They both have rings and were the last to win here. I appreciated their support. I beat them both in a three point shooting contest and I will never let them live in down”, laughed Jermaine Bucknor. The incredible NBA journey will continue as he will follow Charles Lee to the Charlotte Hornets. I end our interview with the ultimate tough question. Who will win the Olympic Gold medal? As a Canadian, a guy who played 10 years in Germany and coached American Jayson Tatum who is a member of Team USA, he has to in a way be careful to what he says. “We had this conversation last year. Team USA is a lot stronger even if they have older guys. Canada and Germany will also be strong, but on paper, Team USA has the edge. I love Canada and Germany. It is really hard for me to say. I can´t say it too loud, but Team USA have a chip on their shoulder and I think will win”, stressed Jermaine Bucknor.