Omari Knox (185-SG-1986, college: Bloomfield) is a 37 year old 190cm guard from Brooklyn, New York who enjoyed a 13 year professional season and last played with the TSV Oberaching Tropics averaging 20.0ppg), 5.3rpg, 2.8apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 87.9%. He began his basketball career with Bloomfield College (NCAA2) and came overseas in 2009 and played 4 seasons with Regionalliga team TSV Dachau Spurs. He also played a season with the RheinStars Cologne as well as 2 seasons with OSB Hellenen Muenchen (Germany-Regionalliga) and a season in Hanau (Pro B). He spoke to germanhoops.com about the 2024 Olympics.

Thanks Omari 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, it’s always great talking to you. Yes, I believe every year it’s still the U.S that’s the team to beat. And for the Olympics many of the stars have come out.

Team USA had to seriously buckle down against South Sudan and Germany. Are these 2 of the bets 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?

I think in general the world and the game of basketball is developing. The talent is not the same, but the rate of development has increased over the last decades. Sudan has a lot of talent and is coached by a tough NYC point guard Royal Ivey. Germany is very complete. Well balanced, role players and go-to-guys who can score at the NBA level.

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 Team USA will be fine. They have plenty of firepower and experience this time around. It’s more about establishing roles even when the team is all playing for one cause.

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 would say that was more Lebron than anything else. Jordan in my opinion would have wanted to show everyone from the very beginning who the best player on the floor is. LeBron is capable of doing and being that guy much more, but it’s not his style.

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?
KD is probably the second most important playing on the team behind LeBron. He brings everything. Experience, high level scoring, and stability and flexibility on offense and defense.

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?

Team USA just needs time to establish and accept the roles of the team. These guys are the best players in the NBA, and at the same time the best players on their own teams so they’ll now have to adjust to having a different roles. That’s the point of the exhibition games, just to work the kinks out.

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?

USA needs to tighten up staying disciplined and playing for a cause. It’s almost as if they have to go back to the fundamentals that got them this far. Playing hard and fundamentally sound. The talent and athletic ability is already superior, so they rely on that too often and end up gambling on plays.

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 think Germany played a great World Cup and deserved to be champions. They shouldn’t have pressure. They simply need to keep working together and on the things that made them successful last summer. Their team philosophy, chemistry, and NBA stars need to improve from last year to take it the next level and get the Gold this summer.

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?

I think Dennis has shown that he’s an elite level NBA player over the years in the NBA. I think he now feeds off of playing in the International events and if he and the team get hot at the right time then they can go far and I could see him as an MVP candidate, this summer.

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

Andi Obst has shown he’s one of the best shooters in the world. I think he would have to showcase a bit more to get into the NBA.

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?

I think Australia or Greece will now get through.

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

South Sudan, if they continue to play at that level and with their chemistry they have a chance to surprise some people. Having a guy like Carlik Jones on your team makes a huge difference. Shayok and Gabriel with a ton of experience.

Please predict the 3 medals and who will capture them?

USA for Gold Germany Silver France Bronze

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

97-94 for THE DREAM TEAM

Thanks Omari for the chat.

Joe Asberry (196-F-1965, college: SF State) is an American ex professional basketball player that really has seen it all from crime to drugs, but also played against legends like David Robinson (215-C-65, college: Navy), Gary Payton, Jason Kidd and Brian Shaw and was teammates with German legendary player Christian Welp. He had a 11 year professional career that saw him toil around in the minor leagues of Germany, but he belonged to the best in his day at that level. Since retiring from the game, he has been a spokesperson for young kids and drug prevention, guest speaker, worked in the Alba Berlin organization, been a master of ceremonies for UBC Hannover and been a mentor for young Americans coming overseas trying to live the dream of being a professional basketball player. Currently he works with an agent and with young inspiring basketball kids and has his own podcast. He spoke to germanmhoops.com about the 2024 Olympic basketball tournament.

Thanks Joe 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?

Thank´s for tapping in Miles. Alway´s a pleasure to talk hoops with you my Guy. I would say this is a “Dream Team” for sure. This team is loaded with the Best Basketball Players in the World, so it has to be a Dream for Steve Kerr and the rest of the staff to Coach Them.

Team USA had to seriously buckle down against South Sudan and Germany. Are these 2 of the bets 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 (204-SF-1984)?

South Sudan played out of their Minds. Cudo´s to them. It´s a prime example of how certain horrible conditions can create basketball players that will show up, and have a Dog Fight with any team they face. Lebron is the best Overall player we have ever seen so I´m not surprised that he helped pull out the win. And if he wasn´t there, Team USA still wins that game. Too much Talent.

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?

Shout out to Team Germany. They fought hard and played great. The Wagner brothers are Humble studs and Dennis Schroeder is the Motor of that Car: That´s their big 3,but they have a great Team. I like big Theis, He´s as strong as an Ox. I enjoyed watching Thiemann play for Alba as well. They have what TEAM USA seems to always have a problem with. Chemistry. When the bright lights come on though, they´re just too skilled, and have too many weapons. So they´re ready for the Olympics for sure.

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 love LeBron James game. He keeps other´s involved, and can dominate and fill up a stat sheet. I don´t ever compare him to Jordan. MJ was a straight killer. He was the type of scorer who could put the team on his back, and go and get 50 any time anywhere. So those are two different breeds of Animal! LOL!

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?

Kevin Durant is UNREAL People love to talk about Kobe,and MJ, but Durant is that type of Killer too. He also is 7 feet. How do you guard a guy with a full tool box of moves, and can shoot at that size? He´s UNGUARDABLE. When he play the other teams will not have a chance.

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 form Team USA to be able to win games more comfortably?

I don´t think TEAM USA is missing anything. They just don´t play together for year,like the other teams. The expectation is just too high. A win is a win.

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?

Jayson Tatum and Devin Booker are great players. Their role will be different on this team. If Kerr gives them proper minutes, they`ll produce, if he doesn´t give them proper minutes and Team USA loses, they should fire him from the Warriors! LOL!

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?

Team USA will never be a great defensive team. They would have to add Draymond,or a Pat Beverly type for the roster if that was what they´re trying to do. They have too many offensive weapons. All they have to do is play hard, run and gun when they can and they will get win´s. Truth be told Davis loves defense. As long as Big Bam and Embid control the paint, everything will be just fine.

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?

Team Germany is a very good team. They don´t have pressure at all. All of the pressure is on the Americans.

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?

I love Dennis Schroeders game. I`m biased. He grew up getting buckets in that same gym I was Dunking on people in,Alte Wagge in Braunschweig. So I ride with him and Coach Liviu all day. LOL! He must play great in order for Germany to win. He makes everyone around him better and when it´s time to get a bucket he can do that with ease.

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

Andi Obst has a gun. He could easily help a team that is looking for a shooter. He could be the JJ Redick type and help a NBA Roster without a doubt

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?

If i have to pick one team that won´t make it out of that group, I have to say Spain. It hurts to say that too, because l`ll always love the Gasol Bro´s,and Ricky Rubio. I hope they don´t read this LOL!

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

South Sudan can go very far. They have that fight in them right now. For they´re a country that is dealing with all kinds of things, so when you have that extra chip on your shoulder, you play at another level.

Please predict the 3 medals and who will capture them?

USA,Germany,Canada.

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

Dream Team 1992 and Team USA 2024 is two different eras. The Team USA 2024 team has more skilled players. Of course if you have Refs from the 90´s era, The Dream Team has a chance to win. Basketball is now based on scoring and trying to look good in the era. I played when guards came to the basket and I tried to throw a elbow at their heads, and dunk on them so hard, they would get a concussion, so it´s just different! Is best not to compare. LOL!

Max Heidegger (191-PG-1997, college: UCSB) Is a 27 year old 191cm guard from California that will play his fifth professional season with Turk Telekom Ankara (Turkey-BSL). Last season he played with Umana Reyer Venezia (Italy-Serie A) averaging 9.8ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 72.7%, 2.0rpg, 2.3apg. He began the season with the Windy City Bulls (NBA G League) averaging 12.9ppg, 1.5rpg, 3.6apg, 2FGP: 44.7%, 3FGP: 40.9%, FT: 71.4%. In 2022-2023 he split time with Merkezefendi Belediyesi Denizli Basket (Turkey-BSL) and with Bitci Baskonia Vitoria (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 8.8ppg, 1.2rpg, 3.6apg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 69.2%. In the 2021-22 season he played with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg (Germany-BBL) averaging 18.3ppg), 2.2rpg, 4.5apg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 66.0%. He played his rookie season with Bnei Hertzeliya (Israel-Winner League) averaging 18.2ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 61.4%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 79.6%. He began his basketball career with Oaks Christian high school. He then played at the University of California Santa Barbara from 2016-2020 playing a total of 96 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Max for talking to germanhoops.com. Your played your first season with Umana Reyer Venezia (Italy-Serie A). From a historical stand point, you couldn´t have picked a more beautiful place to live in. What does Venice mean to you now as you are living there as opposed to having visited there before?

Venice is such a beautiful and interesting place, there is truly nothing like it in the world, especially as we are starting to get into spring and the sun is out and it’s starting to get warmer. I’ve really enjoyed my time here so far as I’d never been for a game or vacation before so I’m looking forward to exploring the city more. Obviously living somewhere you start to maybe take certain things for granted maybe but I’m trying to absorb as much of Venice while I can.

You recently played in the G-League. Your stay was short. Did you get homesick to the Euro game? Usually guys will remain a lot longer in the G-League.

Not necessarily, in retrospect maybe I should have stayed a bit longer but you live and you learn but I did get a bit accustomed to Europe so it’s a hard adjustment both ways because the philosophy is completely different.

The team is in first place of Serie A. Since moving up in 2011the team has only won one title with a cup. The expectations seem high and the team is stacked with a lot of talent, depth and guys from the NBA. How did you expect to fit in?

I think I fit in fine, it’s definitely difficult to join a team midway through the season or even later like I did as roles are already understood and you are trying to learn how to fit in on the fly while other had a whole preseason to do that but I had experienced it a bit last year moving to Baskonia but I think I can fit a role they wanted where I can play both positions score a bit and take on some of the point guard duties.

You have always been a guy used to having the ball in your hands and taking a lot of shots. Will it be a very big adjustment for you having to possibly take less shots?

I’ve actually gotten a bit used to it at this point as my usage has gone down a lot since I left Turkey especially since I joined two teams midway through the year. I mean it’s obviously difficult as I played one way my whole life basically but it’s not necessarily a bad thing just a different mindset.

You were with the Chicago Bulls in training camp. What kind of an experience was it learning from Billy Donovan? What do you remember being the most vital of info that he gave you about your game?

I have a ton of respect for coach Donovan as he’s had success at every level and just seeing his work ethic and commitment to excellence was really impressive. He was always in the office watching film. I think the biggest thing was just the attention to detail especially for a guy like myself who was a fringe guy you have to do everything right.

How did you like the G-League style. Is it really all about guys only playing for their stats to get that NBA call up?

The G league is most definitely a fun style with the highest pace in the world. I wouldn’t say that every player in the G league is like that but I say it’s close to like AAU in the states when guys are trying to get recruited for college. If you don’t take advantage of your opportunities there’s no way for you to get what you want which is an NBA call up, but it’s not always necessarily with scoring a lot of guys get called up due to their versatility and athleticism but I’d be lying if there weren’t some guys just out there to purely score as many points as possible.

The G-League is getting younger and younger, but every now and then you see a known ex NBA player like Derrick Favors. What was it like sharing the court with him? What did you appreciate most about his game?

It was great, amazing person first of all but he’s obviously played at the highest levels possible, being able to learn from him and his experiences was really great. I mean a guy of his caliber to come back to the g league shows not only his love for the game but also what kind of person he is. Being around a guy that humble with that much success is always great. I just appreciated his IQ, obviously he didn’t quite have the same jumping ability he had in his prime but being able to shift his game to being more about IQ was really impressive to me.

What was the coolest moment that you had in the last 6 months in the NBA and G-League? You must of met some famous basketball figures?

Yeah of course I met a ton but being in basketball in the states you are around these guys relatively often so it’s not as crazy of an experience but learning from guys who have been there and done it is always a great experience. But for me personally my coolest moment was putting on an NBA a jersey even though it was only for preseason games it’s still what you dream about as a kid and being on the floor is something special.

Dou you ever see yourself going back in the G-League/NBA direction or is Europe your number one goal now?

I don’t exactly know what the future holds for the right situation I’d go anywhere but of course I think everyone playing basketball wants to play in the nba so that’s the dream but Europe is where I am.

Last season you began with Merkezefendi Belediyesi Denizli Basket (Turkey-BSL) and finished with Bitci Baskonia Vitoria (Spain-Liga Endesa) averaging 8.8ppg, 1.2rpg, 3.6apg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 69.2%, 2.0apg). You had huge games in Turkey. The Turkish league really seemed to fit your game. You outdueled many top guards there. What was your nicest memory on the court?

Yeah Turkey is the perfect country for my game. Especially since I finally played primarily the point position which really elevated my game. I think beating Turk Telekom and Fener back to back at home was a good memory.

In Spain you got to play Euroleague. How do you feel did your game grow during that period even if you didn´t get heavy minutes?

I mean it’s a great experience, of course I would have liked a bigger role but it’s always good learning how to fit in a team and seeing the best level of competition in Europe every day. I think I just learned a lot about how basketball should be played more tactically which I wasn’t used to as much as before that most teams I played in I was given a lot of freedom.

In the 21-22 season you played with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg (Germany-BBL) averaging 18.3ppg), 2.2rpg, 4.5apg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 66.0%. You had massive games against so many teams including FC Bayern Munich scoring 31 points in a 31 point win. How tough was playing so well, but not making the playoffs?

Obviously tough especially with how we ended the season, it was unfortunate that injuries and other circumstances caused us to start poorly I felt bad especially for Mladen and Rickey whom are legends of the club and I have immense respect for it just wasn’t working early in the season and I think coach Freyer his style fit our team more maybe especially me but it’s always difficult to have a disappointing season especially at a club like Oldenburg where they were super professional

You witnessed the farewell season of BBL legend Rickey Paulding. What did it mean to you to have him as a teammate?

Like I said before I think all of us as players felt a bit bad that we couldn’t give Rickey a proper send off with a great season but I think Rickey was the best teammate I’ve had in my life. Ofcourse he’s a legend of the bbl but it’s incredible that he had no ego and was one of the best people I’ve ever been around in basketball. It was insane to see the things he could still do at 40 he could have played a few more years at the same level if he wanted to, it’s cool to see how involved he still is in Oldenburg from afar.

You played your rookie season with Maccabi Playtika Tel-Aviv (Israel-Winner League) and Bnei Hertzeliya (Israel-Winner League) averaging 18.2ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 61.4%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 79.6%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home even if you have Israeli roots?

My first year they had a series of missile attacks and that was kind of my wake up call if I’m not in California or the US anymore. I mean there’s nothing in the US that would really prepare you for missile attacks and just how calm the people in Israel were at the time was pretty confusing to my teammates and I at the time.

You were coached by Sharon Drucker a guy who was an assistant at Maccabi many years ago. How do you feel did he help you adjust from the NCAA to euro ball best?

I think the biggest thing is that he was patient with me and was more supportive than a disciplinarian which I think was massive in helping me adjust. The first year out of the NCAA is always so difficult not only on the court learning European basketball but also as a person being away from family and friends in a completely different culture and time zone so I think his support and patience with me honestly allowed me to get through the first year and build some momentum to start my career. Very grateful to him.

You played at UC-Santa Barbara from 2016-2020. You had many 30 plus games and once was close to a triple double against LBSU. What was your fondest game in the NCAA?

Probably senior night my last year, even though I was injured it was just a culmination of a lot of hard work being able to graduate and having played all 4 years having pushed through a lot of injuries and other things it was an important milestone for me.

You played 2 seasons with Gabe Vincent. That guy had to fight for everything to get to where he is today. How do you remember his work ethic? Could you soak something up from his presence?

He was always an incredibly hard worker and very mature but I think the biggest things that allowed him to do what he has done is his confidence and consistency. Obviously he worked hard to get where he is but even since college he lived as a professional and his mentality and attitude never changed in the face of success or adversity which I think is one of the main reasons he made it from basically the bottom to where he is now, it’s a great story.

You played 2 seasons against TJ Shorts who has been a terror overseas since he turned pro. You also played against him in Germany. How far is he from reaching the Euroleague?

I don’t think far at all, he’s going to get an opportunity in my opinion, I mean there’s not much else he can do to get that opportunity he’s excelled at every level and every place he’s been even if people doubted him. He was mvp of champions league last year and will most likely be mvp of eurocup this year so I mean if he doesn’t deserve the opportunity at this point nobody does.

How did head coach Joe Pasternack groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I think he installed some structure in my life when I desperately needed it. As a college kid I needed that structure to be successful in my life as a whole and he provided that which allowed me to grow as a player and person

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jaquori Mclaughlin?

I’m not sure if we actually ever played one on one but of course I’d bet on myself on that one but we used to go at it all the time in practice and it depended on the day who got the better of the other. I’m excited that he’s back on the court this year as he’s in Indonesia right now, looking forward to catching some of his games.

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

In college probably Lonzo Ball, I played against him in high school also but with that UCLA team there was nothing we could really do he just played with such command and confidence as a freshman he could dominate the game without scoring.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

PG: Alex OConnell

SG: Sander Raieste

SF: Rickey Paulding

PF: Leland King

C: Norris Agbakoko

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, Kobe, Jordan, Allen Iverson

Who is your GOAT and why?

I think the best player ever is Lebron but my goat is Kobe, growing up in LA he was such a legend in the city and he meant so much to the city of LA he’s the person who got me to pick up a basketball even though no one in my family had ever played or had any interest in basketball. The impact he had on myself and the city of LA makes him my GOAT.

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

I did not see the sequel. Sometimes you should just leave the classics alone it’s hard to replicate a movie like that especially like 30 years later.

Thanks Max for the chat.

Khalil Miller (203-F-1996) is a 28 year old 203cm forward from Ontario, Canada that completed his rookie season overseas in Germany with the EN Baskets Schwelm averaging 16,5ppg, 11,4rpg, 1,2apg, 1,3spg and 2,3bpg. He has previous pro experience with the Ottawa Blackjacks of the CEBL. He began his basketball career at Seneca College (CCAA) and finished at McMaster University (U Sports) playing 23 games averaging 10.3ppg, 10.2rpg, 1.5apg, 1.2spg, Blocks-2 (2.5bpg), FGP: 53.7%,3PT:24.1%,FT:66.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the 2023-2024 season ended.

Congrats Khalil on a great season. One win away from reaching the semi-finals. Where do you rank this season as a rookie?

For me I would say that this season was a successful season even though it didn’t go the way we wanted it to go, and for it being my first year overseas I’m grateful for the coaching staff and my teammates, they really made it a great experience for me

You lost a tough do or die game against Orange Academy by 42 points. Was this a game where Schwelm just ran out of gas or just one of those days where the opponent did everything right?

Orange Academy is really good at home I will give them that, they did everything right

How much is the success of Orange Academy a good advertisement for German basketball? That team has only young players. Is Orange Academy the best pro B team full of young Germans?

I would for sure say that Orange academy is the best pro b team full of young Germans

Orange Academy has many very talented young players. Which guy impressed you most?

Only 2 players really impressed me and that was Noa Essengue and Maximilian Langenfeld. They are going to be special in this game of basketball

How thrilling was the series against Oberaching? You won the do or die game by 3 points. What will you always remember from this series?

What I will always remember from the series against Oberaching is that they never gave up

Talk about the season of the EN Baskets Schwelm. What is your summary overall of the season? What was special about this years team?

We didn’t just get along on the court, it was also off the court. We had a group of guys on the team that I appreciate and respect a lot

No disrespect to the team, but if you compare the roster to other teams, one could say that there isn´t much depth. Did the team overachieve a bit?

Compared to other rosters, I guess you can say that we were counted out a lot, but we have dogs over here in Schwelm

How important was head coach Falk Moeller for the success? He did a lot with this team. How big is his heart for the organization?

Coach Falk built a foundation when it comes to EN Baskets, you can’t say EN baskets without mentioning Falk. He was very important when it came to the team´s success, Falk will do anything for this organization. He just wants to win

How much of a joy was it playing with Chris Frazier? What will you always remember about his game?

Playing with Chris was amazing, he’s a solid dude on and off the court, happy I went into battle with him for the entire season he’s a competitor and would do anything to win

Robert Merz had a great season. Could one say he was a bit of an unsung hero?

I didn’t expect Robert Merz to be this good when I got to Schwelm but he proved me wrong, competitor as well and great teammate

You averaged 16,5ppg, 11,4rpg, 1,2apg, 1,3spg and 2,3bpg. How content were you with your rookie season?

My rookie season was a good one, I for sure know that I I could of done more though

You really dominated the Pro B. Did it sometimes feel like you were a man among boys?

It felt like it sometimes that I was a man amongst boys

You really filled up the stat sheet. How do you feel did your game grow in Germany?

I felt like I learned a lot coming overseas and my game definitely grew being out here in Germany

You had many monster games like the 33 points in game 2 against Orange Academy. What was your personal favorite personal game of the season?

I would say that my 33 point game against Orange academy and my 19 points and 20 rebounds against Koln were my favourites

What is the next step for you? Could you imagine remaining in Germany or do you want to explore a new country?

What’s next in store for me, I guess we shall see, but I do love Germany and I can see my self coming back

Who do you see reaching the Pro B final and winning? Koln-Rhondorf seem like the logical choice.

It’s going to come down to who wants it more, going to be interesting

Who will win the NBA East and West and who will be NBA champion?

Boston winning the East and Dallas winning the West, Dallas champions

Will the USA win the Gold with Lebron and Co or will Germany get in the way again?

USA will win the Gold I don’t see anyone getting in their way.

Thanks Khalil for the chat.

Jeremy Ingram (183-G-1991, college: AAMU) is a191 cm guard that was born in Alabama and has played his entire professional career in Germany for teams like Speyer, Idstein, Bensheim, SG Mannheim, TSV Bargteheide and SG Braunschweig. He began his career with Enterprise State College (JUCO) and then finished with Alabama A&M University (NCAA). He spoke to germanhoops.com about the 2024 Olympics.

Thanks Jeremy 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?

I love the team the USA put together this year. Curry and Lebron on the same team is crazy with Kevin Durant, I think they’re dynamic for sure. I would never call them the Dream Team though. I´m honestly taking the Dream Team over this 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?

I do think the world is catching up in basketball but I also don’t think this team is as good as people think it is. I think there is a lot if big names on the team but the chemistry is not nearly as prominent as the Dream team and the Redeem Team, in my opinion.

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?

With Kevin Durant they are obviously much stronger because he is 1 of the greatest scorers ever so I think if he would have played it wouldn’t had been so close. Germany still played a great game though.

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?

Lebron definitely showed why he is 1 of the greatest players ever with a great down the stretch performance. But comparing him to Jordan, not even close. Lebron missed 2 huge free throws at the end of that game that I just can’t see Jordan or Kobe missing. Lebron has been carrying the team in clutch time though showing why he is the leader of that team.

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?

When Kevin Durant returns and is fully healthy I think they are unbeatable and I think they start winning big.

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?

I think they need to play better team defense so they can get out and run more and that´s when they start blowing teams out. The isolation ball is normal for Americans but once they start getting steals and pushing the break off of missed shots they are super dangerous.

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

I don’t see neither 1 of those guys having significant roles on this team. I think they are both great but they play behind Kevin Durant and Steph Curry so there´s not much room for them to be as effective as they are on their NBA teams.

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?

I think it was just effort. They can really get after it, if they want to. Maybe once the real games start they won’t have so many lapses like they’ve been having.

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 think Germany is getting better every year and I think they have a lot of supporters. Other than USA I want to see Germany do good. I think Germany should have the pressure of at least winning 2nd place. I can’t see them win Gold. I think either them or Serbia should compete for silver. Canada will also try to compete for those top 3 spots so Germany will have to bring it.

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?

I think he does his job well and the guys on that team all accept that he is the leader of that team which makes his job a lot easier. Dennis will be ok, he loves international play so I expect him to play well almost every game, he will have to if they want silver or bronze.

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

He is definitely 1 of the best shooters in the world. I mean maybe he is happy with his role and money even his life overseas. I think he can shoot but I honestly don’t see him in a NBA uniform.

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

It´s hard to say but I´m going to say Spain won’t survive from this group. I think Spain was tougher years before in previous Olympics. South Sudan showed their fighting qualities against Team USA.

Do you see a sleeper going far in this competition?

I think they played great Against USA and I think it´s possible they may shock a team, but I don’t see too much from them because their are a lot of good teams in the Olympics.

Please predict the 3 medals and who will capture them?

USA Serbia Germany. I think these are the top 3 teams, in that order.

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

I don’t know the score but I think Dream Team would lose simply because it´s a different game today and everyone on this 2024 team can do so many different things. I like the Dream team better though.

Thanks Jeremy for the chat.

Shawn Scott (185-G-1996, college: SW Christian) is a 28 year old 185cm guard that will play his third fourth season and first with Pro B team TSV Neustadt temps Shooters. Last season he played with BG Hagen averaging 30.1ppg, 9.0rpg, Assists-2 (5.9apg), Steals-5 (2.7spg), FGP: 59.9%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 78.0%. In 2022-2023 he split time with TVO Biggesee / TV Jahn Lindhorst (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 31.2ppg, 10.4rpg, 6.1apg, 3.6spg, 2FGP: 56.2%, 3FGP: 30.4%, FT: 77.6%, in Jan.’23 moved to BG 2000 Berlin (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 14.2ppg, 8.1rpg, 4.6apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 64.4%. He began his career at Jenks High School and then played 3 seasons at Southwestern Christian University. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the 2024 Olympics.

Thanks Shawn 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?

Thanks for having me. Yes I’m most excited about the US basketball team this year and hope I’ll be able to watch every game. Dream team I don’t know about that but there’s definitely unlimited talent on that 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?

I mean, it’s clear that the basketball world has caught up because most of the best basketball players aren’t from the US and I think this year will be so competitive and you may see many “upsets”. Every team is filled with ex NBA players and players with tons of experience and all it takes is just more chemistry and not so much talent.

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 but again we’re waiting for KD to come back and I think they just need to lock in more defensively and not let these teams who have a lot of chemistry and are smart offensively and move so much without the ball and I think that’s hard for the US to guard.

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 honestly never saw a game from Jordan in the Olympics, but it’s clear that LeBron is excited to be out there and is giving everything he has and they are looking to him to do LeBron things, but I think some people are still waiting to get going and once they do offensively, it won’t be so close of a game.

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?

Yeah, like I said, I think we’re still waiting for him to come back and once he does, I think the whole game will completely change and these games that end up being close won’t be so close anymore.

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?

I think that overseas style of ball movement and always swinging the ball and moving without the ball is kind of what they’re missing, but it’s hard to do that when they’re not used to playing basketball like that. Team USA wins strictly off of talent and just being better but I really think this year it will be tough to win like that.

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?

There’s just so much talent on this team and maybe it’s hard for these guys to have a chance to get going and can’t expect to score 15-20 points every game but they have to find other ways to get involved and contribute to 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?

Just being more sound defensively. Like I said a lot of teams are moving without the ball and we get caught falling asleep most of the time and rely on an athletic block from AD or Bam and if they really want to win, then they have to really buckle down and tighten these things up.

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 mean, they won the World Cup for a reason they’ve been playing with each other for who knows how long and they have a ton of NBA experience and overseas experience at the highest level so it’s no secret or surprise that they have a good chance of winning.

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?

I think in these games, Dennis is the most comfortable because he’s playing for his home country and he gets ultimately the most freedom and they rely on him to make plays. I think he will do just fine in this Olympics.

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

I honestly don’t know why he’s not in the NBA or hasn’t gotten a chance because shooters always get a chance and to be a knockdown shooter like that there’s no reason why a team wouldn’t want him on there. Also it could be that he’s comfortable where he’s at now overseas and he’s solidified over there and they take care of him.

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

They’re calling Group A the group of death, which is going to be quite the games to see. It’s so close and every team is so evenly matched in my opinion, but I think Canada and Australia will survive. South Sudan showed their fighting qualities against Team USA.

Do you see a sleeper going far in this competition?

Going far honestly no because once the Olympics actually start then everything is heightened and these teams that shouldn’t be keeping the games close usually turn it up even more, but who knows what will happen.

Please predict the 3 medals and who will capture them?

I think Canada bronze and then France silver and USA gold.

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

That’s a tough one. I want to say that the game would be super close and extremely competitive but I feel like team USA 2024 would come out on top.

Thanks Shawn for the chat.

It really doesn´t matter what country you scope out, you will always find gems, players that are incredible players grinding somewhere in a lower league and knowing they should be in a higher league. All those guys have chips on their shoulders and most think that they should be in a higher league except for Isaac Likekele (196-G-2000, college: Ohio St.). There might be a few others like Likekele, but he is a very special player. He was a player that had a solid college career at Oklahoma State, but it wasn´t spectacular and because of that he landed in Norway for his rookie season. His stats at Oklahoma State were good enough that he probably should of landed in a higher league, but it just wasn´t meant to be. A big difference between him and other players is that yes he has a massive chip on his shoulder, but he isn´t dwelling too much about the what if´s, but just focusing on himself and being the best he can and getting better. He had the right mindset already as a rookie and this guy will go places in his career. “The chip on my shoulder is huge as is just because I’m trying to maximize myself in this game as much as I can. As long as I give 100% wherever I end at the end of my career I’ll be satisfied as long as I gave it all I had. But, I don’t handle it bad mentally I don’t think about being in other leagues at all. I didn’t have to be here in this league like it was my only option. And I say that with the upmost respect because I’m highly appreciative for being here. People get so caught up in where you start when it’s all about where you finish. I’m more focused on getting better on my craft every day and being an impact everywhere I go”, warned Isaac Likekele.

Isaac Likekele who names ex teammate Cade Cunningham as the toughest player that he ever faced on the court was born on Feb 25, 2000 in Mansfield Texas and grew in Arlington and attended Mansfield Timberview High School: where he averaged 19ppg, 9,0rpg, and 6,0apg. He then played at Oklahoma State University (NCAA) from 2018-2022 playing a total of 114 games and reached March Madness in 2021. In his 4 years there he scored in double figures in 51 games and his favorite game was Beating Syracuse at the Barclays Center in his sophomore season. He was fortunate to have been teammates with future NBA players Lindy Waters and Cade Cunningham and has fond memories of them. “Lindy just taught me how to be an all around consistent guy. Everyday Lindy worked hard and was good every day. He had great days, & some good days, but never any bad days. Every late game clutch shot Cade hit for us from the beginning of the season to the end was always a wow moment for me”, stressed Isaac Likekele. After his time at Oklahoma, he latched on a year at Ohio State, but he didn´t play a big role there averaging only 21 minutes per game while averaging 3.7ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.8apg. “It was hard to get in a rhythm because I missed a whole month in the middle of the season, but those guys on staff taught me a lot of life things & helped me learn more about the game then I thought I knew”, said Isaac Likekele. After his freshman season at Oklahoma State, he was fortunate enough to play for USA at the U-19 World Cup and won a Gold Medal averaging 8.4ppg, 5.9rpg, 3.1apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 50.0%. USA Beat Mali for the Gold medal and he produced 9 points and 10 rebounds. “I don’t remember how the final game went exactly, but I remember the moment holding the trophy it was a surreal moment that can never be taken away from me”, stated Isaac Likekele. He had some great teammates with future NBA players like Tyrese Haliburton, Jalen Suggs, Cade Cunningham and Evan Mobley, but it was a non NBA player that impressed him the most. “The player that had the biggest impact on me was Cameron McGriff. He had the biggest impact on me far from any other player I’ve ever played with”, warned Isaac Likekele who feels that the classic Coming To America movie with Eddie Murphy should have been left alone,

The Texas native who names Cameron McGriff, Lindy Waters, Cade Cunningham, Thomas Dizagwa and Dee Mitchell as his 5 best teammates of all-time began his professional career with Fyllingen BBK (Norway-BLNO). It has been an incredible rookie season with winning the league title, achieving 10 double doubles and just enjoying basketball life. He has no regrets even if the weather was difficult to handle. “It’s definitely was tough to adjust to the weather. Even after 5 months I still wasn´t used to the weather. I can’t stand to be in cold climates. But with that being said the mountains & other beautiful nature things here in Norway makes it more than worth it.”, smiled Isaac Likekele. The season has been like a Cinderella story for the club, but also for the American as he is the main player on the team playing like the ultimate leader. “I have cherished most being able to do something special for the city of Bergen, but specifically Fyllingsdalen because this team has never won the regular season title or the championship and my team is in the position to do both if we continue to focus how we’ve been. The key to playing good basketball has been what the key is to playing basketball anywhere in the world honestly which is consistent hard work, focus, & determination. Everyone here wants to win badly and the more we win the harder we work. Even games that we win by 20 plus we don’t accept things in a win that we wouldn’t accept in a loss. We make sure we continue to emphasize winning habit”, warned Isaac Likekele in January 2024. But of course it wasn´t all Likekele who was instrumental in the success, but his 2 sidekicks Americans Pete Bullock who played his 19th season in Norway and Terrell Brown who averaged a mind boggling 32,0ppg during the season. “Pete has been a great guy to play with because he is all about team and winning. Pete is a mentor & emotional leader for the whole team. He is our enforcer like a Draymond Green without him we wouldn’t have won this many games, and the box score might not say that. But, for everyone that tunes in and watches they can clearly see how much of an effect he has on the court each game. Terrell has been great for us & it’s great to have a guy on your team that can score it like he can. He has a true gift for scoring the ball. But, I haven’t soaked up anything from his game because we play completely 2 different styles. So, I just watch his game out of enjoyment because it is a great sight to see anyone who can score the ball in the different ways he does”, commented Isaac Likekele who lists Lebron James as his Goat.

The ultimate stat filler who lists Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Magic Johnson on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is a versatile player and what stands out most is his triple double talent which he did an incredible 10 times in Norway. He didn´t learn to produce triple doubles in Norway, but had already experienced it at Oklahoma State. But where was it tougher to achieve them in Norway or the NCAA? “For sure the NCAA because you’ve played those same teams for years. And for the ones you didn’t play against for years when you do play them they’ve seen you play on TV plenty because everyone in college basketball watches everyone because you just want to see great basketball. And NCAA basketball is the most exciting sport to watch especially in March”, added Isaac Likekele. Triple doubles aren´t easy to produce. Some players will get 1 or 2 in a season or even career. But has this rookie influx surprised him? “ No, they haven’t surprised me. My game has always been predicated on filling up the stat sheet. A lot of players focus their game in one statistic category, but the value of being able to effect the game in so many ways like I do allows you to play on any team and fit in just perfectly”, warned Isaac Likekele. He lists his passing as his greatest basketball ability and winning as the only thing that he thinks about. “I honestly don´t think about triple doubles. I just go out there and think about winning. Personal stats never matter if your team is losing”, stressed Isaac Likekele. His versatility will always stand out, but there are other parts of his game that remain off the radar. “My defense, my passing, & efficiency are hidden strengths in my game. Nobody says it’s bad, but people don´t put enough emphasis or value on how I’m able to guard 1-5 position. While offensively leading my team in assists. But, also my scoring. I score a lot of points off of a lot less shot attempts then it takes others, my game is very efficient”, said Isaac Likekele. He finished his rookie season in Norway averaging 19/12/8/3 stats. Winning was on his mind from day 1 and not his stats. There are guys out there that don´t have stats on their mind first. “Before you told me my stats just now I didn’t know any of my stats because I don’t even look at those kinds of things. I just go out there trying to play and win. But, I’m not surprised because I’ve been working hard & God already has my story written & edged in stone how it’s supposed to go. I expect nothing but greatness for sure”, expressed Isaac Likekele. He may have won his first chip in Norway, but obviously many will remember his triple doubles. But don´t call him the Westbrook of Norway. “I don’t want to hear I’m the Westbrook or the Lebron. I’m Isaac “Ice” Likekele and there’s only one of me. I carry my name with pride and only want to be mentioned with my own name. It’s a great name that my mother & father gave me. I want people to rave about my name around the world”, stressed Isaac Likekele. This season he will play with Kouvot Kouvola (Finland-Korisliiga). Having the name “Ice of Finland” would be very fitting. If he has another incredible season in Finland, then I´m sure he will continue to move up the basketball ladder. One may even see him in Germany next season. Then people will call him the “ICE” of Germany.

Matt Haarms (221-C-1997, college: BYU) is a 27 year old 221cm center from the Netherlands that will play his fourth professional season and first in Japan with Kagoshima Rebnise (Japan-B3 League). Last season he played with Zunder Palencia (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 5.2ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 57.3%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 62.7%. He played his first 2 pro seasons with the Fraport Skyliners averaging 7.4ppg, 4.5rpg, Blocks-2 (1.3bpg), FGP: 58.5%, FT: 69.4% and 7.8ppg, 4.3rpg, Blocks-3 (1.5bpg), FGP: 61.9%, FT: 77.2%. He began his basketball career wit the FIATC Joventut Badalona (Spain) U18 team and then played with Sunrise Christian Academy. He then played at Purdue from 2017-2020 playing a total of 102 games averaging 9.4ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.1apg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 67.9%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 69.5% and 8.6ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 63.4% In his last 2 seasons. He played an extra year at Brigham Young University (NCAA) averaging 11.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.1apg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 60.6%, 3PT: 19.4%, FT: 80.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Matt for talking to germanhoops.com. You played your third pro season and first in the ACB with Palencia. What was it like playing in the third best league in the world after the NBA and Euroleague?

It was a cool experience. It is obviously a higher level than Germany and different style. Here in the ACB, there are 215-218 cm guys every week to play against. In Germany I saw more athletic centers.

Was it a big adjustment for you coming from the easyCredit BBL? What was the biggest difference to what you countered in Germany?

I believe that you need to think more on the court in the ACB while in the BBL the play is more physical. Your locked into the scouting report a lot more in the ACB as well. There are more specialist players in the ACB and it´s more tactical. I remember after games in the BBL lying in bed and thinking that I had just been in a physical war.

You played against the top teams FC Barcelona and Real Madrid and lost each game but had 2 solid games against Barcelona scoring 13 points each game and 16 points against Real Madrid. How confident building was that for you?

Yes of course I´m feeling really confident and personal results are nice, but I wish we had won the games. We lost the first game against FC Barcelona in overtime and the others were close. We felt like we could of won.

What was it like battling Eddy Tavares twice. You had his number in the second game. Did you soak anything up from his game?

I have watched a lot of his videos the last years and he has been one of my favorite players to watch. He isn´t just big, but smart. He is good at positioning and knows when to use his length. He gets a lot of trust from his team and he is one of the best defenders in Europe. It was a joy to watch him play. I learn something every week from these specialists.

What player impressed you the most from FC Barcelona and Real Madrid?

Willy Hernangomez impressed me the most. He plays so simple. He is always a step ahead and makes quick adjustments.

What was it like battling Anzejs Pasecniks on a regular basis? How do you guys compliment each other best?

It has been fun being his teammate and battling him in practice on a daily basis. I think that this season, I have been able to improve the most since I turned pro. He is a very special player and there is a reason why he was drafted in the first round in the NBA. It is a real challenge playing against him. He has so many moves and can affect a lot of shots. We are the biggest center duo in the ACB. No team gets a rest because when I go out, he comes in and vice versa. We don´t miss a beat as a team when we are both playing

How have you seen the development of big talent Ousmane Ndiaye? I saw him already when he was a raw 15 year old in Germany.

He just came back from an injury. I could have sworn that he grew again during the injury. He is so athletic and a really good shooter for his size. He is also a great rebounder and plays with a lot of self-confidence. I think that he could continue to develop really well.

In Germany you saw mainly Germans and Americans, but in the ACB it´s so international. On the Palencia team there are 11 different nationalities on the team. How do you feel has your game grown this season just with having all these different player types?

It is fun to see so many different nationalities come together. It is great to see where all these guys got their education and now have come together to play on one team. It is like a melting pot of players here.

You played your first 2 pro years with the Fraport Skyliners. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie in Germany where you knew you were far away from home?

It was a big adjustment coming form college. I think the biggest adjustment was just realizing that I have to learn to take care of my body. I remember being so tired after games. I had to do a lot more than before taking care of my body.

These were 2 tough years for the organization. How did you cope with all the losing after being used to winning in the NCAA?

It was difficult. The most important thing for me was just staying positive at all times. I would tell myself that no matter what happened or what was going on, I would always give my best. I just tried to forget loses as quickly as possible and move on and have a good attitude. I tried my best to be as professional as possible.

You were teammates only for a short time with Jamel Mclean, but were you able to soak anything up from his play in the latter end of your rookie season?

Mclean was a great teammate and I always watched his game. He was really creative and great at drawing fouls in critical moments. He had no problem getting 12 points and getting many of his points from the free throw line. This may sound weird, but he had a special skill to get to the free throw line. He always used his body in the right way to draw fouls. I tried to see how he saw the game and add as much to my game as possible.

You were able to play your last 2 seasons with the legend Quantez Robertson. How will you always remember him as a player and person?

He was one of the most fun teammates that I ever played with. He always had a great attitude and was a great teammate. You could see quickly why he was able to be with one organization for so long. He was a great influence to all. He 100% deserved to have his jersey retired. He was a great leader. It was an honor to play with a legend like him in Germany.

You began your career with the FIATC Joventut Badalona (Spain) U18 team10 years ago. How do you remember these early days and living in Barcelona?

Those days were surreal. I was just a kid from Amsterdam. I barely remember anything, but I look back positively on that time. That was the first time where I really started to take the game seriously. That is where everything began.

you saw a guy like Goran Sutton play in Barcelona. What were you able to soak up from him in early years?

I didn´t practice against him, but watched him play. I remember that team winning a lot of games event though nobody expected it.

You played at Purdue (NCAA) from 2017-2020 reaching the Elite 8 and NCAA Sweet 16. Were these some of the best times of your life?

Oh for sure. We were all kids at the ages of 18-20. You were a kid and then had these special moments where you played in front of 15,000 people. These times were so special and fun.

How do you remember the March Madness runs? You lost to Texas Tech and Virginia. What was your fondest moment there?

I remember it being a lot calmer than what you may expect. For me there was more stress sitting at home and having to worry about how many games I would have to watch on a single day plus following the woman´s tournament. But as a player it was so much calmer. I just went on the court and concentrated on winning. There was so much going on just following it all. Just playing the game was quieter.

You had so many great games at Purdue including a 26 point game against Minnesota. What was your best game there?

I was really proud of how I played against Villanova during the Elite 8 run. I had a solid game. I had a lot of respect for head coach Jay Wright and his program.

What memories will you always have of Carson Edwards? He is playing in Germany now with FC Bayern Munich. Did his short stay in the NBA surprise you?

The NBA is weird and I don´t understand it. Carson Edwards is one of the best players that I ever played with. He deserves to be a Euroleague player. The season when I left the BBL, there is now a Purdue reunion in the BBL and I´m gone. You have Dakota Mathis and Trevion Williams in Ulm, Edwards in Munich and Vincent Edwards in MBC.

How did Matt Painter groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He operates as a pro at the college level. He puts expectations on you and expects you to take care of business. He gets you well prepared at Purdue and then you can play pro ball when you leave.

You played at extra season with Brigham Young (NCAA) averaging 11.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.1apg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 60.6%, 3PT: 19.4%, FT: 80.3%. How did your game grow in this last season?

It was important that I came to Brigham Young. I really needed it. It was during Covid. There were no fans and distractions. There was only basketball. I had the chance to be a leader and prove that I can lead a team.

What extra advice and skills did head coach Mark Pope give you in your last NCAA year that has helped you?

Mark Pope was amazing. He was a former center at the pro level. He talked to me every day and was a great influence on me. You don´t see that so often having a coach so focused on a center. It was a real prep year for me. I´m so grateful to play for him

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Richard Harwood?

He was a physical hard working player. He was so energetic and a little crazy at times. If he thought you were scared then he would run you over.

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

Deandre Ayton. He was a pretty good player. He was so big, strong and athletic. He could do it all.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Quantez Robertson, Lukas Wank, Chumi Ortega, Will Cherry, Jamel Mclean

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, Jordan, Kareem, Hakeem

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron.

Thanks Matt for the chat.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Bryan Battle in Rhondorf, Germany in 2024

Bryan Battle (196-SG-1999, college: FHU) is a 25 year old 196cm guard from Arizona that played his fourth professional season and first with the RheinStars Koln averaging 13.7ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.5apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 65.8%. Last season he played with Ammerud Basket Oslo (Norway-BLNO) averaging 15.0ppg, 6.5rpg, 2.6apg, Steals-2 (2.8spg), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 27.9%, FT: 72.0%. In 21-22 he balled for U.M.F. Skallagrimur Borganes (Iceland-D1) averaging 23.1ppg, 7.5rpg, 5.4apg, Steals-2 (2.8spg), FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 76.6%. he split his rookie season with KK Promo Donji Vakuf (Bosnia-Division I) averaging 2.0ppg, 1.7rpg, in Jan.’21 moved to Urartu V-bet Yerevan (Armenia-League A) averaging 11.0ppg, 5.8rpg, 3.2apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 41.7%. He began his basketball career at South Mountain Community College (JUCO) and then played a season at Rogers State University (NCAA2) averaging 2.2ppg, 1.5rpg. he finished at Freed-Hardeman University (NAIA) averaging 16.2ppg, 7.3rpg, 3.2apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 62.6%. He recently worked out with the free agents of Klutch Sports in front of more than 20 NBA teams in Las Vegas

Thanks Bryan for talking to germanhoops.com. The RheinStars lost in the final to the Dragons Rhondorf. How tough was losing the last game at home?

It was tough because I envisioned us winning at home. But, unfortunately, that never happened.

I never thought the Dragons could eclipse the 15 three´s from the Friday game, but they did making 20 three´s. Was it just one of those days where you have to accept a team performance like that or was their much fault on the Cologne defense?

What a great question. We forced them to take a lot of tough shots. It was one of those streaks where they just weren’t missing.

What did you personally learn as a player from this final series against the Dragons Rhondorf? What would you have liked to have done better as a team as a whole?

To play with more passionate, urgency, dependency. That is what cost us those games. I think we would tend to forget that we weren’t unstoppable, and we had to show up at our best at every given moment.

The RheinStars never gave up during the final game in Cologne. How proud are you of your teammates despite the loss?

I’m proud because we played all year like we deserved to win the final. And it just didn’t go our way.

It was a very special season for the RheinStars. It was very consistent having 2 stretches of winning 11 in a row and another winning 14 of 15 games. What was so special about this year´s team?

We played for something bigger than ourselves. We played for a championship together, as a unit. We were a solid, consistent team that united to work towards the common goal.

Something that I noticed was that the team was talented but not the most talented on paper, but it seemed like the team got everything from everyone including the younger players. How tight knit was this team? That seemed very special to me?

The young guys showed up to practice and contributed as if they were one of the starters. They wanted to get better and compete. So, I feel like, I’m brothers with anyone that wants to compete and be serious about the game. We had good, young players.

Having a talented and experienced guy like Stephan Baeck as head coach at the pro B level is a massive gift. What did you learn from him and how did he lead the team best?

Another good one. I would say I learned essential shooting fundamentals and footwork. He was a great leader for mental preparation before the game.

You had so many great teammates, but how special was Ruppert Hennen. Where would this team have landed without his services?

Rupi is very talented. I looked forward to competing in practice with him everyday.

How tough was it for the team not having J Von Seckendorff in the final? Could he have given you the extra push?

My heart broke for Jannis not being able to play in the finals after playing in every single game all year. It sucks we couldn’t win it for him.

Bjoern Rohwer had a massive game in Rhondorf but had unbelievable misfortune missing easy lay ups in the last game. How big was his effort at the center position and what did you enjoy most about his game?

I love how much passion he played with. He was one of those guys that just throws his heart into the game. You can’t do anything but respect that. I enjoyed always knowing he was going to be fired up, ready to play.

Grantas Vasiliaukas had a strong season as well under the boards. How vital was his game for the team and how do you feel did he help the team most this season?

He was a very tough player, especially on the glass. He played the game the right way.

Who do you feel was the team´s most improved player this season?

I feel like I played my best basketball towards the end of the season and into finals when it counted the most, so I’d say me.

You averaged 13/5/2/2 stats in the German pro B. What is the summary of your personal season? You didn´t have to score 20 a night, but your versatility was there every night?

It was a good year for me and I improved on a lot of things. The next year’s goal is to do the same, as well.

You’re a chameleon that did all you could do to help your team win. You showed on the court how much was in your veins to help your team win. I believe you passion for the game grew even more with this experience with the RheinStars?

The passion and love for the game has been there since I was a kid. But it was a blessing to be able to experience the community in Cologne. It was an experience I will never forget.

You told me last summer that your versatility is your biggest asset. How did your game grow this season?

I learned how to play off the ball, make cuts and reads off the ball better, and I grew as a team defender.

You shot very well this season from outside. How do you see the development of your three pointer. Is it something you see continuing to grow in the next years?

I worked on some mechanics in my shooting so now it’s just perfecting the repetition, and becoming more confident in the shot itself. I have no doubt it will continue to get better.

How did you follow the development of your defensive game in the RheinStars system? How did it grow under Stephan Baeck?

I touched on this earlier, but I grew as a team defender. I learned how to play defense connected with the whole unit, not just as one person.

On what areas of your game will you keep working on this summer besides your shot?

Playmaking and defense.

You had so many great games this season with the RheinStars including many in the playoffs, but what game was your best?

The game against Schwelm when I had 8 steals in the second to last game of the season. I was 9 of 9 at the two.

Who was the toughest player that you faced in the Pro B this season?

Trey McBride. With Leverkusen being the rival to Cologne, it was always a fun match up.

What is the next step for you? You have seen so many countries. Is to stay in Germany an option? I´m sure the pro A should be a goal for you?

No hints. But, I will say that I’m excited for the future and what comes with me playing the game I love.

What was the nicest experience that you had off the court in Germany? Did you explore any cool places that you won´t forget?

Visiting the Cathedral with my daughter was a really cool experience.

I will never forget that.

Thanks Bryan for the chat.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Camron Reece in Frankfurt, Germany in 2024

Camron Reece (201-F-1999, college: Talladega) is a 25 year old 201cm forward that completed his second professional season in Germany with SC Rist Wedel and the Hamburg Towers. Last season he played his rookie season with Joensuun Kataja Basket (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 3.6ppg, 4.7rpg and played also with Kataja Basket Talents (Finland-1st Division) averaging 21.7ppg), Reb-1 (13.0rpg), 2.5apg, 2.0spg, Blocks-5 (1.3bpg), FGP: 68.3%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 60.3%. he began his basketball career at Oakland Technical High School and then played 2 seasons with Sheridan College (JUCO) averaging 14.5ppg, 6.9rpg, FGP: 66.9%, FT: 46.3% and 13.1ppg, 7.8rpg, FGP: 65.1%, FT: 64.1%. He then played 2 seasons at The University of Akron (NCAA) averaging 5.9ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 60.5%, FT: 61.9%, and 6.4ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 65.9%, FT: 72.1%. He played 1 more season at Talladega College (NAIA) averaging 5.4ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 57.6%, FT: 58.9%. he spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Camron for talking to germanhoops.com. You played your second pro season in Germany with SC Rist Wedel (Germany-ProB). Was being able to play with BBL team Veolia Towers Hamburg like extra frosting on the cake?

Very much so, this entire experience has been a learning journey. Being able to play against some of the highest competition in the world is a blessing. I’ve learned a lot over the course of this season, some of which will stick with me through the entirety of my career

You played last season in Finland´s first division and this season in Germany´s third division. Was it difficult having to take a step back?

It was not difficult at all. I played pro B last season while also playing the in the first division. In my eyes it was the same situation last year as this year.

Wedel have reached the playoffs. You had a superb pro B season averaging double double stats in points and rebounds. How would you summarize how you played and your game development there?

I’ve taken everything that I’ve learned up to this point of my career and did my best to implicate those things into playing the game I love. The towers have helped me improve so much by helping me learn to be more attentive to do the details of the game. Understanding what affects winning. My summary of this season would be I am just doing what my team needs me to do.

It is fair to say that you are a true double double monster. This began in Finland. What changed in your rookie season. That double double status wasn´t around in school?

Since my pro career you could say that I’m a double double machine. I believe while in college I had a different role as far as what I was allowed to do. In college I felt overlooked. I was capable of doing what I am doing now but at times it’s hard to be all you can be when your now in the right situation.

You played 13 Eurocup games. How beneficial was it for your game playing against great players overseas? How did your game grow with this experience?

Playing against great competition in the euro cup helped me understand that no matter what you do you have to do it at a high level to get results. This helped my game grow because I was able to adjust to the physicality. See how teams execute and grasp an understanding of what basketball at a high level basketball looks like.

How big of a role model is a guy like William Christmas who only a few years ago was a Pro B player and now is a BBL player. What have you been able to gain from his presence?

He’s been great inspiration for me because I’m in a similar situation as he was at a point in his career. We’ve had many conversations about just putting in the work to get better and at the end of the day the work will show. Furthermore the work will pay off.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. To what NBA player would you compare your game to?

I would compare my game to Jonathon Kuminga, Julius Randle, Zion Williamson

You can score and rebound but what other strengths does your game incorporate?

I believe that I am an exceptional passer and also good at defending all positions on the court

How would you describe your defensive game now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I am a good defender. I am very pesky and a nuisance to the offense. I believe I can be an even better defender without a doubt. I want to be the guy coaches call on to guard the best player at the end of the game for the last possession.

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

I am currently and constantly working on my free throws, ball handling, and shooting capability.

Last season you played your rookie season with Joensuun Kataja Basket (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 3.6ppg, 4.7rpg;and played also with Kataja Basket Talents (Finland-1st Division) averaging S (21.7ppg), Reb-1 (13.0rpg), 2.5apg, 2.0spg, Blocks-5 (1.3bpg), FGP: 68.3%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 60.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call where you knew that you were far away from home?

Traveling overseas for the first time to play the sport I love felt unreal. Preseason is when I realized that this is for real. We scrimmaged a couple teams in the league and I really grasped the idea that I can really call myself a professional basketball player. Something I worked extremely hard for in college and high school.

You were teammates with young German Robin Danes in Finland. It is rare to see a German player in Finland. What memories do you have of him?

Robin Danes is one of my best friends. So many good memories and a lot of work in the gym. We talk a couple times a week. He’s also been a guy who’s helped me by giving me feedback on the things I need to work on to get better and vice versa.

You dominated the second division in Finland and had a 44 point game. Did it sometimes feel like you were a man among boys?

Definitely, It felt like that pretty often in that league. A lot of the times it was difficult to play because I was overpowering my opponents so much that the refs would let the opponents get away with clear fouls at times.

You played your first 2 seasons of college at Sheridan College (JUCO) averaging 14.5ppg, 6.9rpg, FGP: 66.9%, FT: 46.3% and 13.1ppg, 7.8rpg, FGP: 65.1%, FT: 64.1%. Every guy that I have interviewed that played Juco said it was tough but an experience they wouldn´t have traded in for the world. How was it for you?

It was the same exact way. I am extremely happy that I went the juco route. Best basketball experience of my life. It takes real dedication and hard work. Nothing but the team and a ball. My coach, my team, and the community around the school was something that I wish I could experience again. If I could do it over again I 100% would.

How vital was head coach Matt Hammer for your early basketball development. How did he make you a better player?

He was very important key to my success on and especially off the court. I struggled with school and the whole way through coach Matt Hammer helped make sure I was doing my part off the court. I’m so thankful to have a coach such as Matt Hammer.

You then made the jump to Akron (NCAA) playing 2 seasons and playing 53 games and averaging 5.9ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 60.5%, FT: 61.9% and 6.4ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 65.9%, FT: 72.1%. What kind of an experience was this for you. How did your game grow in the NCAA?

While playing I learned no matter what your role is for your team do it to the best of your ability. It’s never just about one player. Each individual has to step on the court and play their hearts out for each other. John Groce did a great job instilling the mindset that everyone on the team has a role. It is every individual person´s job to maximize their role on the team even though everyone plays a different part. I gained a better understanding of what was going on in games as far as plays and certain defensive schemes. I also learned how to play with physicality.

How key was having a teammate like Xeyrius Williams as a young player? How did he help you in that first year coming from Juco?

I looked at Xeyrius as an example of how to maximize my role even though we did not have the same role. X was and is very talented.

You scored in double figures in 8 games. What was your fondest NCAA moment?

I would have to say playing against against Ball State. My team did a great job reading the defense and gave me the ball. It felt good to lead to my team to a victory. I finished the game with 16 points and I don’t know how many rebounds.

In your last season you played at Talladega College (NAIA) averaging 5.4ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 57.6%, FT: 58.9%. How tough was this last season. I´m sure you expected to play more? You did reach the NAIA final.

In all honesty I expected to play more for sure because that was something discussed in my recruitment. Unfortunately that’s not how it turned out but at this point in my college journey I just embraced my role. Personally it was tough because I felt I was capable of being a very effective player for the team but I was utilized as an option seeing that my touches were limited

What memories do you have of the final losing to Loyola LA? You had 4 points and 9 rebounds.

We played them a few times prior and over the course of the season we had not beaten them one time. It was a hard fought game. I did what I could to try to help my team but in the end it wasn’t enough. Even though we lost the game I was proud of the guys that I got to call my teammates. At that point I had never even made it to any type of championship game so even though we lost I was also proud of the work we put in to be in the position we were in.

How did head coach Chris Wright groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

We talked a little bit during the season about g league coaches watching the team play but not much was talked about when it came to becoming a pro. After I graduated I actually had no idea what to do because I had no help. I almost gave up because I didn’t know what steps to take.

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

We never played just one game but I think the series between me and him is tied at 1 a piece.

Who is the toughest player that you have faced in your career that was in the NBA?

Jordan Nwora, Jason Preston was a pretty solid player. Lamelo Ball was also a good player.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Dante Gonzales (Sheridan College)

Joshua Bagley (Sheridan College)

Lepear Toles (UofA)

Robin Danes

Thomas Tumba

Please name your Euro Mount Rushmore?

Kyle Hines, Milos Teodosic, Mike James

Who is your goat?

Kobe Bean Bryant

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

I haven’t seen it.

Thanks Camron for the chat.