Matthew Ragsdale (194-G-2001, college: BHSU) is a 23 year old 194cm guard playing his pro rookie season in Germany with Pro A team Dresden Titans. He began his basketball career with Lewis palmer high school and then played 3 seasons at Western State Colorado University (NCAA2) averaging 12.4ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 72.0%, 20.8ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 80.3% and 21.5ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 44.5%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 82.3% in his 3 seasons. He then played 2 seasons with Black Hills State University (NCAA2 averaging 13.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 42.4%, FT: 82.0% and 22.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 83.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I am currently in Colorado Springs, Colorado with my family right now. Basketball life has been treating me good. I’ve been busy playing in two pro ams this summer along with training and weight lifting on top of that.

Congrats on signing with the Dresden Titans. Is becoming a pro like a dream come true? It isn´t self-evident that a NCAA 2 player can come overseas. It is a rare thing, but it happens.

Becoming a pro means everything to me. It’s been a dream of mine since I was younger so for it to become a reality is surreal. Working hard and staying focused since an early age has definitely paid off.

You showed in the NCAA 2 that you were a walking bucket at 2 different schools. Do you have a chip on your shoulder? You surely could of played in the NCAA?

I definitely have a chip on my shoulder. I feel like I’ve been overlooked my whole life and I always remember that when I step on the floor so that definitely helps me. I would say I play with a lot of confidence which helps me so much. I actually was signed to Evansville university which is D1 after my three years at western but the coaching staff got fired by the new athletic director so I recommitted and signed with Black Hills State.

What do you know in general about the country Germany? Dresden is a very historic city. Could you fall in love with the city?

I don’t know much about Germany if I’m being honest. But I’ve heard amazing things about the country and I’m so excited to be able to learn another language and learn new cultures that are not in the US. From the pictures I’ve seen, I think I could fall in love with the city of Dresden for sure.

What do you know in general about German basketball? Have you had any friends, former teammates or opponents ball in Germany?

I know that Germany basketball is super high level with so many talented guys. I’ve watched a lot of games this summer to prepare myself for how it’s going to be. I actually know like 5-6 people that will be in Germany this upcoming season so it’s super cool to see a bunch of people I know chasing their dreams out there with me.

What were the main reasons for joining the DresdenTitans? What was so enticing about the organization for you to join?

My main reasons for joining the Titans was the opportunity as a rookie to start in a very respected league with amazing talent. I built a good relationship with Coach Fabian right away and I felt very comfortable after a couple phone calls with him. His ideas of working hard towards an end goal really intrigued me. I want to win and will do whatever it takes so I was on board with his ideas right away. It was a no brainer after discussing with my agent about it.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 194cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

If I had to compare my game to someone in the NBA, it would be CJ McCollum.

Your shooting really stands out at first glance. What other strengths does your game incorporate? Your ex head coach Ryan Thompson stated that self-confidence is a big strength of yours.

Coach Thompson definitely nailed it. I do play with a lot of confidence which helps me a lot. I’d say outside of just shooting, I bring a lot of attention to any defense with my ability to score at all three levels. The past two years I have become a much better playmaker which makes me even more of a threat.

How vital is consistency for you? Last season in the NCAA 2 you shot 0/13 in a 2 game span and then came back in the next 2 games shooting 11/20.

Consistency is everything for me. I know in the back of my mind that I will go through shooting slumps. The best shooters in the world go through slumps. So I’ve always trusted that all the reps and hours I’ve put in will pay off and eventually show at the end of the day.

You never averaged more than 2,0apg in the NCAA 2. At Black Hills you developed into more of a complete player. Is playmaking something you would like to develop more as a professional?

I developed into a complete player and playmaker at Black Hills for sure. It’s always something I can keep improving on. I’m always looking to get better in all areas of my game so I will be focusing on that for sure at the professional level.

You only averaged 1,0spg in the NCAA 2. Are you more of a defender that does the dirty work and things that aren´t always seen on the stat sheet?

I stay really sound on defense. Meaning I’m in the right spots when I need to be and I take pride in not letting my guy score on me or making it as tough as possible.

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

I’m going to keep improving my defense and rebounding, along with playmaking for others. The European game is a lot more physical from what I’ve seen and heard so I know I will have to keep improving those areas.

You played 3 years at Western State Colorado University (NCAA2) averaging 20.8ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 80.3% and 21.5ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 44.5%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 82.3% in your 2 last seasons you had some amazing games against CSU-Pueblo with 46 points and 53 points against BHSU. What was your fondest game there?

The game against Black Hills was the craziest game I’ve ever played in. I was in a zone that I’ve never been in before and it felt like any shot I took was going in no matter the difficulty of it. What made it crazier is that my high school teammate Joel Scott also had 50 points in the same game. It was just a super cool experience and to do that along side one of my closest friends was special and something I will never forget.

You then finished at Black Hills State University (NCAA2) averaging 13.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 42.4%, FT: 82.0% and in your second season averaged 22.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 83.7%. You averaged the NCAA 2 Final 4 in 2023. What memories do you have of the loss to West Liberty?

The memories I have of the west liberty loss are frustrating to say the least but it was a blessing to be able to play on that big of a stage. The whole playoff run was so special and not many teams get to say they made it to a final 4 so just being able to get there was special and a great experience overall.

How did head coach Ryan Thompson groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Thompson helped me so much and I will never be able to thank him enough for what he did for me as a player. He is so smart and his IQ of the game is amazing so being able to see that and learn from him the past two years for amazing for me. He helped me become a better playmaker and defender but he also helped me become a man. He was super hard on me at times and really pushed me to become the player I am today.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or friend Joel Scott?

Joel and I have had so many battles since we were in the 5th grade. We both have wins against each other and it’s always a competitive battle whenever we play 1 on 1.

Who was the best player that you battled so far in your life that reached the NBA?

I’ve battled so many great players. I played against Jalen Wilson in my AAU days. Dshawn Schwartz and Hunter Maldonado are two players that I’ve looked up to in Colorado Springs and they are amazing players.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My five best teammates of all time are Joel Scott, Adam Moussa, Sindou Cisse, PJ Hayes, Sava Dukic. All of them played on the final 4 team.

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

My NBA Mount Rushmore is Lebron, MJ, Kobe, and Steph.

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James is my Goat. No player has dominated the game like Lebron has. He is the most complete basketball player ever in my opinion and it isn’t even close.

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

I did not see the sequel unfortunately

Thanks Matthew for the chat.

Janosch Koegler (190-SG-1993) is a 30 year old 190cm guard that has played 9 seasons for TSV Oberaching Tropics and has amassed more than 200 games with the club. Last season he averaged 11,0ppg, 3,0rpg and 1,8apg. He began his basketball career with SV Germering and then played 3 seasons with FC Bayern Munich 2. He spoke to eurobasket near the end of last season about his basketball career.

Thanks Janosch for talking to eurobasket.com. Your playing your 9th season for the TSV Tropics Oberaching. One could say you’re a Oberaching lifer. What has been so special about this team?

I really like the nice and positive atmosphere. Character is really big in this organization. I feel really comfortable on and off the court. Everything simply fits well. My real job is near Oberaching so being able to work and play so close is great.

How much of a reason has head coach Mario Matic been for you staying 9 seasons with this organization?

Mario has been huge. I came from FC Bayern Munich and didn´t play much. Mario supported me right away when I arrived and I had no pressure, but had freedom. I feel like I have learned a lot under Mario and developed well. Mario is a top coach and I feel very comfortable here.

In the last years the club has performed very well and reached the playoffs and will do so again this season. A big reason has been also been keeping guys for many seasons and having team chemistry. What else has been vital for the success?

I think the chemistry is the one thing and also that we always get 1-2 new players each season that perform well. We also haven´t had real injury problems this season. We want to end the season strong and be aggressive and fight until the end. I feel like this season we could get past the first round of the playoffs.

You played many years with Omari Knox. He is retiring after this season. How much of a pleasure was it playing with him?

Omari is a great guy and player. When he is really focused then he is unstoppable and a real joy to observe. He always supported me in practice. It is incredible how great he is playing at age 37 at this level.

You also have been teammates with big man Bernhard Benke for many years. He reached the pro A, but has settled in as a Pro B player. Has his talent not been recognized the way it should have?

He is a very good player. He is playing for Leitershofen now. I feel like he could be playing at a higher level. I´m not sure why he is in the Pro B, but he is talented enough to play higher.

You also have been teammates with ex BBL player Peter Zeis for many years. What was the most important thing that you learned from him?

Peter gives us so much experience. The most important thing with him was that you can always rely on him. I am instantly happy whenever he was on the floor. He is such a consistent player. He can always make the big three pointer.

You have been an explosive scorer for many years. If you had to compare yourself to an NBA player who would it be?

Mario always said Bogdan Bogdanovic.

What other strengths does your game have besides scoring?

I have a lot more experience now. I feel like now I can take more responsibility and control the game.

You made big strides as a scorer a few years ago. What happened in your game that made you go from a solid scorer into a dominant scorer?

I just felt more trust from coach Mario and was ready to take on that responsibility. I also felt that from my teammates. I realized that I could make mistakes and that allowed me to play more free. We have other guys like Omari Knox or Jorg Dippold that can score a lot. We just feed the guy who is hot.

Omari Knox told me that you’re a BBL player. Was your job as an engineer more important than trying to become a BBL player?

Yes that is right with my job. When I was in Munich, I had to make the decision between trying to become a BBL player or concentrate on my other job. I picked my job. In my youth, my goal was always to reach the pro B. I did that and I have no regrets. I have job security with my job and as an athlete there is always the danger of getting injured.

Do you sometimes wonder how your career may have gone had you had had more time to pursue the basketball career?

Sometimes I do, but not often. I am happy with how my career has gone in the Pro B.

In your first season in Oberaching you played for ex German national player Robert Maras. What was it like playing for him?

Robert was a great coach and person. He gave me trust right away and I was allowed to make mistakes. The worst thing for a player is to play with fear.

You played 3 seasons with veterans Moritz Wohlers and John Boyer. What did these 2 great players mean to you as teammates?

They meant a lot to me. When they were here, I was a lot younger and they were veterans. They both had so much experience and knew how to play together. John always knew how to find the right guy. I don´t think that we would have moved up to pro B without them.

A few years ago you were teammates with talented young German Benjamin Schroeder. Is sky the limit for him?

He is very talented. When he was with us he was 16 or 17 and already had great size and athleticism. He has developed well and now is playing college basketball. Sky is the limit for him. I feel like he can play BBL in the future.

In the past years you had so many great games in the Pro B. What was your best personal game in the Pro B?

There were so many great games. I remember a buzzer beater against Erfurt as being very memorable. I also remember a few years ago taking Duesseldorf to 3 games and losing game 3 by a close margin.

You played 3 seasons for FC Bayern Munich. What was that like? Which player had the biggest influence on you?

I don´t know who really influenced me but I remember being really impressed by Paul Zipser. I also spent a lot of time with Julius Wolf.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in your career in Germany?

A guy who really annoys me is Sven Lorber. He chases you all over the court.

Please name your five best teammates of all-time?

My top 3 are John Boyer, Peter Zeis and Omari Knox

Please name your NBA and Euro Mount Rushmore?

My NBA Mount Rushmore is Russell Westbrook, Anthony Edwards, Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan while my Euro one is Bogdan Bogdanovic, Milos Teodosic, Nikola Jokic and Dirk Nowitzki

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan.

Thanks Janosch for the chat.

Justin Jaworski (190-G-1999, college: Lafayette) is a 25 year old 190cm guard from Collegeville, Pennsylvania that will play his fourth professional season and second in Germany with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg Last season he began with Gevi Napoli Basket (Italy-Serie A) averaging 9.3ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 69.6%, 3FGP: 33.8%, FT: 88.9% and then moved to the MLP Academics Heidelberg averaging 19.5ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 88.7%. In 2022-2023 he played with Acunsa Gipuzkoa BC San Sebastian (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 19.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT-8 (92.2%). He played his rookie season with the Oklahoma City Blue (NBA G League) averaging 8.1ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 91.3%. He began his basketball career with Perkiomen Valley High School and then played at Lafayette College (NCAA) from 2017-2021 playing a total of 98 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball last season when he was with the MLP Academics.

Thanks Justin for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome to Germany. As a guy coming from small Schwenksville, Pennsylvania that has it´s own notable history with William Penn, the Indians and Perkiomen creek, but now your in historic Germany and Heidelberg. What does it feel like living in Heidelberg? Is the castle a place that you could imagine visiting more than once?

It has been a crazy 4 days, getting off the plane and going straight to practice, getting everything ready for my apartment, so I haven’t been able to experience much of the city yet. My first impression is a good one though and I think I will enjoy my time experiencing the city.

You began the season with Gevi Napoli Basket (Italy-Serie A) and now have a new challenge with easyCredit BBL team MLP Academics. Your playing for the last placed team. What do you believe will be your biggest challenge coming in late and just being able to perform well right away?

It’s always a challenge joining an already established group late, but I think my game translates well to playing with others so I’m just going to come in and be myself and see if I can help turn their season around.

A big problem of the MLP Academics is finding a true identity on defense as it allows way to many points. You have been a scorer and three point sniper your whole career, but also an ambitious defender. Do believe like you could be an impact defender for the team?

For sure. I think my defense is an underrated part of my game, and I’m excited to show that.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm guard that can score very well. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player, who would best fit the bill?

It is hard to compare myself to just 1 player, because I have tried to take qualities from a lot of different players. For example Steph curry or JJ Reddick’s ability to move without the basketball is something important to me. Someone like Patty Mills who is a great defender and shooter, but also able to play with the ball in his hands is another player I enjoy watching.

You’re a great scorer and three point shooter, but what other strengths does your game incorporate?

I feel that I am an underrated defended, and also have the ability to have the ball in my hands, creating for myself and others. I think in Heidelberg I will have the opportuinty to showcase this.

You shot over 40% twice in the NCAA, but haven´t since turning pro, but you have been close. How would you describe your momentary development as a three point shooter and could you become a consistent three point shooter?

Respectfully, I am one of the best shooters at any level, in any part of the world. Obviously I am always working to become better, but I would stack myself up with just about anyone when it comes to shooting the basketball.

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

Shooting the ball and scoring will always be one of the most important parts of my game, but I am always working on trying to improve making decisions with the ball in my hands; whether that is creating for myself or others.

You began the season with Gevi Napoli Basket (Italy-Serie A): 12 games: 9.3ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 69.6%, 3FGP: 33.8%, FT: 88.9%. What kind of an experience was Italy? You put up good stats but had to go. What positives could you take from the Serie A?

Italy was a good experience for me. It was a bit of a different role than I expected to play, but I think being in Napoli improved me specifically as a defender, and I got to contribute to a successful rebuild of a team; which is something I am looking to do here too.

How worthwhile was being teammates with big time veterans Jacob Pullen and Tyler Ennis? I´m sure you tried to soak up as much as possible from them?

Jacob and Tyler were great. Both are people I would consider close friends of mine now, and it was good to compete with them every day, and steal some things from their games to add to mine.

You played last season with Acunsa HYPERLINK “https://basketball.eurobasket.com/team/Guuk-Gipuzkoa-Basket-San-Sebastian/6645?Page=1&Year=2022-2023” Gipuzkoa BC San Sebastian (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 19.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT-8 (92.2%). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

The second I got off the plane and they took me to my apartment I knew everything was very different from home. I loved my teammates and the city of Gipuzkoa, but don’t want to go into further detail about my time with GBC.

After your rookie season in the G-League you were second best scorer in the Leb Gold. This was your break out season overseas. You netted 36 points against Coruna. How did your game grow most this season?

I think my year with GBC was definitely a good start for my career, but I still have so much more in front of me, and have ambition to play at much higher levels. Spending that season with many players who had established European careers at that time, like Mike Carlson, was very important for me learning the European style of play.

After the NCAA you began your pro career playing NBA Summer League with the Atlanta Hawks. You played only 2 games but saved your best for last scoring 16 points against the New York Knicks. That team had many respectable NBA guys with Quickly, Sims, Mcbride, Toppin and Grimes. What memories do you have of that game? I´m sure you felt like you could belong in the NBA?

All I really remember is how fun it was to compete with the best players with an NBA jersey on my back. I had a lot of family and friends there watching, so it was a good experience for everyone. I did, and still do, believe I belong at an NBA level, and I’m working every day to get there.

You played your rookie season with the Oklahoma City Blue (NBA G League) averaging 8.1ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 91.3%. What kind of an experience was the G-League and how tough was it for you getting minutes and the kind of shots you were used to in the NCAA?

The hardest part of the G is the mental battle of staying ready, when you don’t know exactly what the roster will look like game to game. There were some games, especially early on where I would only play a few minutes, but still had to find a way to be effective. I think as my minutes increased, so did my confidence and think I finished my rookie season strong. Obviously you’re playing with some of the best athletes in the world in the G, so that is always a step up in speed and physicality from college to the G.

What was it like being teammates with the peeper Anthony Roberson the ultimate journeyman who was already in the NBA when you were only 6 years old. Were you able to form a special bond with him?

I think you may be thinking of a different Anthony Roberson, or maybe his brother Andre. But I love Ant that I played with.

You played at Lafayette College (NCAA) from 2017-2021 and was able to improve your scoring each season. How did your game grow in your 4 years there?

I think I just improved every aspect of my game in my time at Lafayette, and I owe a lot of that to my coaches there that were in the gym with me working every day. I think I made the biggest jump in my understanding of the game in my later years there, and that’s what happens when you’re around someone like Coach O.

You had so many great games in the NCAA, but what was your personal favorite? You scored 33 points in a win 97-94 win over Loyola MD.

My favorite was actually the first game against Colgate my freshman year. I hit the game winner on the road, just a few months after I visited Colgate and did not get an offer from them. So I felt pretty vindicated winning the game that way.

How did head coach Fran O´Hanlon groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach O is an offensive genius when it comes to basketball, and I feel like I just learned so much about how to play the right way, especially when the ball isn’t in my hands. Coach O definitely got the best out of me at Lafayette.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or EJ Stephens?

I love my boy EJ, but I’m taking myself in that matchup.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career that reached the NBA?

My first game as a college freshman was against Jalen Brunson as a senior, and he’s gone on to have a pretty great career, so it’s hard to not say him.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I’ve got too many to name on my list going all the way back to high school, so I don’t think I could give you just 5. Also I don’t want any of my guys to be mad at me if I left them off.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, MJ, Kareem, Kobe

Who is your Goat and why?

Lebron is the best overall basketball player at doing everything on the court, and I don’t think it is that close.

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

Can’t say I have seen the original or the sequel, but I will take your word for it.

Thanks Justin for the chat.

If you were to ask a former Juco player that saw the G-League/overseas life or a normal guy that played in the NBA for say 8 years what experience was more unique, It would be interesting to see at the end, which guy would say what they would rather have experienced. I have never done a survey on this topic, but I can imagine that with just going with my gut feeling over 90% of the players asked would go with the NBA. I mean the NBA is another world filled with more money, living in high class hotels and dealing with high scale people while playing overseas, it is a totally different experience. Just to come overseas having had that JUCO experience is rare, so most JUCO guys remain humble and just say thanks to the man upstairs for having had that fantastic experience overseas. But then again there are those guys that played JUCO, but didn´t only play overseas, but also saw up close how the NBA works without ever having played an NBA game. One of those guys is Johnny Hamilton (213-C-1994, college: UT Arlington), a big man who played at JUCO school Jacksonville State, and then reached the G-League. His journey didn´t remain there, but he came overseas and found a special home in the wonderful exotic Turkey, a culture and league that has appealed too many Americans over the years. He is a player that just keeps grinding overseas and believe or not is still seeking his first chip overseas. It would be interesting to learn what route he would choose if he could do it all over again? Having reached the NBA and stayed there, or having come overseas and played in one of the top leagues in Europe in Turkey and having played in the Euroleague? “I would have done it the same exact way I´m doing now. But with more patience and consistency”, said Johnny Hamilton. But for now it is safe to say that Turkey which is far away from the NBA is a second home to him. “I feel like this my second home because of my family situation. Plus the clubs know me and is more easy to find a job here where I’m at. It’s also one of the most beautiful countries I’ve been too with good food and good people”, commented Johnny Hamilton who rates his dad as his GOAT because he was the reason he picked up a basketball.

Johnny Hamilton who rates Donovan Mitchell as the his toughest foe and jumper in the NCAA was born on Feb 3, 1994 in Rio Claro, in Trinidad and Tobago. He has 6 siblings and had a early love to soccer. And for all those dads out there who are sad that their 6 or 7 year old hasn´t shown that early love to basketball, there is always hope for a change as he didn´t start to play until he was 16. He was very lucky to come to the states to play ball and go to school, but didn´t get a free pass to the NCAA, but had to begin at the bottom in the JUCO. He played at Jacksonville College from 2013-2015 playing a total of 54 games and made a big jump in his second season as he went from averaging 3.6ppg, 5.9rpg to 9.0ppg, 8.9rpg. He like so many other former Juco guys had to pay his dues there, but it was worth it. “It made me into a stronger person. I understood that nothing would come easy and that I had to outwork everyone around me. I was blessed to make friendships and families that I still have in my corner till this day.”, stressed Johnny Hamilton. He led the Juco in blocks. He was rewarded by reaching the NCAA and playing 2 seasons with top program Virginia Tech, but once again he had to pay his dues again there. In his 2 season there, he was only able to play 20 games. In his first season he was suspended because of academic reasons and in his second season, a thumb injury ended his season after only the third game. Even if it was a difficult 2 years, he left taking positives from the experience. “Just playing for a tough coach and getting my degree was tough. But just like Jacksonville college it helped me become better player. I’m thankful my experience over there in Virginia”, remembered Johnny Hamilton. He was fortunate to be teammates with Zach Leday a guy who is in his sixth pro season overseas and sixth in the Euroleague. He is also a guy who could play in the NBA today. “Zach is an incredible player and a guy I have always looked up to. I think if he wanted to be in the NBA they will give him a shot because he definitely has all the tools you need to play on the best stage in the world. Hopefully one day he can make that jump. It will make me happy to see that”, said Johnny Hamilton. He was able to hang on 1 more year of school at the University of Texas at Arlington and he made the most of it. He averaged 11.4ppg, 8.2rpg, 2.3bpg, FGP: 64.0%, FT: 66.4% and his 1 year there had a massive impact on him. “I had to stay in the gym. I had a great coaching staff that worked with me and gave me a chance to become great at what I love. Shoutout Coach Young and Coach Scott for changing my life with the opportunity they gave me”, stated Johnny Hamilton. He scored in double figures in 19 games and produced 6 double double including having a 30/15 and 5 block explosion against W Carolina as well as a 23/14 game in a tough Sun belt final loss to Georgia State. “The W Carolina one was a great game. One of my best for sure. My teammates had my back and we worked together and got the win”, remembered Johnny Hamilton. He was very fortunate to have had a coach who really believed in him with Scott Cross. “I think the best thing he did was letting me play my game. With that came the confidence that I needed to go to the next level. He is a great Coach”, warned Johnny Hamilton who will never forget his 1-1 battles in practice with Link Kabadyundi who never missed a chance to work hard and has a lot of love and respect for him.

The shot blocker master who has Kevin Durant on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore played at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) in the summer of 2018 averaging 7.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 46.7%, FT: 70.0% and then played NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, NV with the (Detroit Pistons averaging 4.0ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.7bpg. He then played his rookie season with the Grand Rapids Drive (NBA G League) averaging 11.4ppg, 8.8rpg, 1.3apg, 2.4bpg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 70.5% In 48 games he scored in double figures 31 times and registered 19 double doubles. Did his stellar play warrant an NBA callup? “Yeah It did. I felt like I deserved a call up but it wasn’t in God plans. I’m not sure what else I was supposed to do but they didn’t see me as their type of guy. But I was still blessed to learn from guys like Andre Drummond, Blake, Reggie Jackson and Bruce Brown, and Speedy Smith”, said Johnny Hamilton. In the summer of 2019 he played NBA Summer League with the Bucks and had some very talented teammates with Sterling Brown, Jock Landale and Bonzie Colson. He averaged only 2,7ppg and 4,3rpg, but got meaningful advice from the coaching staff. “They just told me be myself. Work in silence so when the lights came on I would be ready. And that is what I did”, warned Johnny Hamilton. He made the jump overseas in 2019 and played with top Turkish team Darussafaka Istanbul (Turkey-BSL). He made an impact right away as in the Eurocup he averaged 11.3ppg, Reb-3 (8.1rpg), Blocks-3 (1.4bpg), FGP: 61.5%, FT: 65.5%; and in the Turkish BSL averaged 8.2ppg, 6.5rpg, Blocks-1 (1.5bpg), FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 61.1% Even if he had been in the G-League as a rookie, he was still a boy when he came overseas and had a wake up call to being overseas where he knew he was far away from home. “Just not having the people you love close to you at all times. I had to learn to figure my problems out and make the right choices. I became a man overseas. I’m grateful for that”, remembers Johnny Hamilton. He showed right away that he could be a force in the Eurocup as he hit Naterre and Partizan with 17 points a piece and Joventut with 16 points. Has that been his best season so far overseas? “ Yes it definitely was. I had a great coach and unselfish teammates who wanted to win. So they definitely helped me play better and encouraged me to be myself”, added Johnny Hamilton. In the 2020-2021 season was the first time where he split the season with 2 clubs. He began with Fenerbahce Dogus Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) averaging 6.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 2FGP: 73.7%, FT: 75.0% in the BSL and made the jump to the Euroleague playing 13 games and then moved to KK Mornar Basket Bar (Montenegro-Erste Liga) averaging 5.7ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 52.2%, FT: 63.6%. Playing in the Euroleague is like the NBA in Europe and is one that he will never forget. He had ex NBA guys as teammates with Anthony Brown, Jan Vesley and Lorenzo Brown. He took many positives from having teammates like that especially from Vesley. “I was blessed just being there and being surrounded by teammates and staff. I learned a lot from the guys especially Jan Vesley and Lorenzo Brown. It’s was a great experience. Vesley is a great center and is very good at what he does. Competing with him and getting a closer look at what he does taught me a lot that impacted my career”, warned Johnny Hamilton who believes 100% that the classic Coming To America shouldn´t have been remade.

The big man who lists Bonzie Colson Jan Vesley Erick Neil Scottie Lindsey and Jarrod Jones as his 5 best teammates of all time had a short stint back in the G-League with the College Park SkyHawks playing 12 games averaging 6.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 62.5%, FT: 66.7%, and then returned back to his second home Turkey and played with HDI Sigorta Afyon Belediyespor (Turkey-BSL) averaging 12.1ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.0apg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 55.1%. “That was a tough year for me. I had a lot of personal things going on off the court that had me floating back and forth mentally but I had to finish up strong and look forward to the next season”, expressed Johnny Hamilton. He had a monster game of 17/17 against Merkezefendi and hit his ex team Darussafaka with 11/16. In 2022-2023, he was back at it in Turkey playing with Merkezefendi Belediyesi Denizli Basket (Turkey-BSL) averaging 10.5ppg, 7.1rpg, Blocks-1 (1.9bpg), FGP: 61.0%, FT: 68.8%. It was another solid season for him and another one where he saw many great players on the court including ex NBA player Manny Harris who suited up with him every day. “Manny is a great guy. He joined the team in the last part of the season and made a huge impact on the offensive side. He is a great scorer and definitely a great leader”, warned Johnny Hamilton. Last season he played with Bursaspor Info Yatirim (Turkey-BSL) and as usual a super personal season averaging 10.8ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.0apg, 1.6bpg, 2FGP: 59.8%, FT: 63.6% in the Turkish BSL and averaged 10,6ppg, 5.8rpg and 2,4bpg in the basketball champions League. The club is fighting to reach the playoffs. “We had some experience on our team. We had the potential to go far but we had to be more consistent on both ends of the floor. But we definitely had a chance to make a playoff run”, warned Johnny Hamilton. His game continues to grow and develop especially when you have an experienced and great center veteran on the team with ex NBA player Semih Erden. “Semih was a good help to the team on the floor but mostly off the floor by talking to the guys when we hit road bumps. He is very experienced but I think he’s more layed back now as he approaches his retirement phase. We made each other better every day. We talked about ball on different ways I can take different steps on both ends of the floor. He is really a good admirable player”, stressed Johnny Hamilton. It will be interesting to see where the basketball journey of his will go in the next years. Will he remain in Turkey or see a new country? Does the Turkish BSL league fit his game best? “I’m not 100% sure. A lot of people have been telling me I should try Spain and France. Maybe in the future I’ll try some new leagues and experience them. Then I’ll be able to know for sure.”, stated Johnny Hamilton. He never tires from new basketball or countries as he finished out last season with Beirut Club (Lebanon-LBL) averaging 8.4ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.4bpg, FGP: 66.7%, then moved to Shahrdari Gorgan (Iran-Superleague) averaging 6.4ppg, 5.6rpg, Blocks-5 (1.2bpg), FGP: 52.0%, FT: 66.7%But It wouldn´t be a surprise if he keeps returning to Turkey. “I’m good. I feel like I’m got better everyday in Turkey. I’m blessed with a beautiful family, good Job and had chill teammates”, warned Johnny Hamilton. I don´t think an answer becomes any more clearer than that and where his real second home is.

Ronald Howard (181-PG-1984, college: Mayville St.) is an ex player that spent many years overseas and since retiring has focused his energy on helping unknown players get exposure by organizing games and in many cases helping them find professional jobs. He founded Howard Hoops in 2013 where he brought numerous players overseas to help them find jobs and since 2018 has started the Howard Hoops academy where he helps train unknown players and help find basketball jobs. He started Revizion Sports International which helps players get placed on professional clubs. He brought the Howard Hoops Pro Combine to Milan Italy last summer and will do it again this summer. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

At the moment, I’m at my daughter Salma’s AAU tournament in Ames, Iowa were her team just won the championship for 6th grade. Basketball has been treating me well at the moment getting ready, especially for my new combines taking place June 22 in Hopkins, Minnesota and July 5 through the 19th in Milan, Italy.

How are you able to shuffle so much in your professional life and still be the best father to your kids with time and love?

Balancing various roles can be challenging, but having a supportive family and structuring my time wisely enables me to navigate my professional and personal commitments effectively.

What makes coaching young girls fulfilling compared to coaching young boys and men?

While coaching both genders presents unique challenges and rewards, I find coaching girls immensely fulfilling. When young female athletes believe in themselves and their training, and are eager to compete, it’s incredibly gratifying.

Is it easier or more difficult to recognize talent in a girl compared to a boy or a man?

Recognizing talent is a subjective and holistic process, and I don’t differentiate based on gender. I assess each individual’s skills, potential, and commitment, irrespective of gender.

How have you been following the Caitlan Clark controversy? Has that given woman´s basketball the needed push for more publicity?

I love the Caitlin Clark controversy, especially how she’s been able to singly handedly put NCAA women’s basketball on the map and now be able to showcase her abilities at the top level for women in the W Is exciting to see even if she’s having her moments right now she understands her areas of opportunity for growth and I guarantee after this first season she’s going to be a top five player next season.

You developed Hoop Spot 3 years ago. How has you seen the development of this in the last year?

We’ve taken a break from Hoop spot at the moment and will be back 2025.

A new pro Combine is coming up in Minnesota in a few weeks. What tweaks will you put into this one that will improve it from the last one?

Won’t be any tweaks, just some underrated and undiscovered talent that will have the opportunity to showcase their abilities and work out sessions and live games. Live streamed with coaches viewing in from over 12 + countries.

How will the upcoming combine in Minnesota differ from the last one, and will it primarily feature local talent?

The upcoming combine seeks to discover hidden talent from all over the United States, providing an opportunity for underrated players to showcase their abilities through sessions and live games, attracting coaches from various countries.

Why have you moved your base of operations from Germany to Italy?

Italy presents an exciting opportunity due to strong connections and relationships with individuals deeply rooted in the Italian basketball scene, offering a gateway to a wealth of basketball opportunities and resources.

Talk a little about the highlights of this years combine in Italy. I believe it will feature even more guys from countries in Europe then ever before?

Yes, this year‘s combine will have a few players representing Italy. They will join my American players in one of Italy’s top basketball tournaments called master cage tournament.

You’re the ambassador of helping unproven and long shot players fulfill their dreams of making a career overseas. How do you see the job market for 2024.

So I’ve been doing this for a long time and I love to see players fulfill their dreams and make their career overseas happen. The job market has gotten tough for players, especially ones wanting the jobs that’s Paying big time salaries. Big-time salaries requires big-time resumes and experiences, but this particular setting we have players wanting and needing a start or what I like to call a foot in the door opportunities and for those the market has openings all the time you just have to know the right people and be able to play.

Do you see the hunger of guys as big as usual or are times coming where Americans can calculate their own reality or do you believe once a big heart and drive to make it than forever for the majority of guys?

This year I do see a hunger in guys and I believe because we have a mixture of European and Americans. I think Americans have big dreams as anyone in the world does. I’m always rooting for my guys to make it.

Which player is the biggest prospect this summer from your player pool? You know that guy who will more than likely get a job no matter what?

Right now it’s pretty tough to say I want to be able to see them all in person and see them really play and showcase what they can do. I have some good guards coming and tournaments like these guards are extremely important so I can’t wait to see!

Will Lebron and Co finally show the world who is boss at the Olympics or will Germany or another country win Gold again?

Oh, you know this is the Olympics here. It’s USA all the way.

Thanks Ron for the chat.

Ayo Shokeye (188-G) is an American guard that began his basketball career at Gorton high school. He then played 2 years at Lackawanna College for 2 years and then played 2 years at Northern Vermont University. He has pro experience having taken part at the Forcees Armees et Police in Cameroon (Basketball Africa League Qualifiers. He will take part at the Howard hoops Combine in Italy this summer and spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

At this moment I am currently at home still training and staying ready. There are many ups and downs on this journey but basketball is treating me how it should. It’s still teaching me persistence, resilience, and patience. When things aren’t going my way how do I respond to those situations. Basketball is still treating me like a student

You finished school in 2021 and last played at the Forcees Armees et Police in Cameroon (Basketball Africa League Qualifiers) 2023-2024. How have you made a normal living while also keeping your basketball dream alive?

I’ve been working in a warehouse, as well as a personal assistant to an app developer.

How excited are you to be testing the pro waters this summer? This summer you will be showing your game in Italy. How confident are you that things will work out?

This summer I’m very excited to go out there and show what I can do. I’m definitley excited to play in Italy this summer. I try not to use the word confidence as much because confidence is a feeling that fleets, it comes and it goes. I try to build a conviction that I can do difficult things whether I’m feeling confident or not.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Italy. Will this be your first or second time overseas? With what type of expectations are you coming

This is actually going to be my 3rd time overseas. I expect things to be challenging

How did you find contact to CEO Ron Howard? His network keeps growing from day to day.

I actually found Ron through a former professional player named Sean McCaw

How aware are you of his incredible track record of more than a decade of getting guys jobs overseas for more than a decade now?

I’ve had some brief conversations with Ron, but I think that It’s amazing what he does, putting together events like this for guys to get opportunity

What was your first impression of him? What did you appreciate first from him about his demeanor and character?

What I appreciated most from Ron is his honesty and his humility.

It is really difficult for guys like you to find jobs overseas but it has been done more than not. How big is your hunger to prove people wrong?

This is a tough job, and like you said it’s difficult to find find in this sport. I feel like I’m hungry to prove everything to myself. I try to let my motivation come from inside.

Let´s talk about your game. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the bill?

If I had to compare my game to someone in the NBA it would be Dwyane Wade. He is also my favorite player. I do well at attacking the rim hard and scoring mid range jumpers

Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of defender are you right now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

Defensively I am a vocal player. It’s important to communicate and be someone my teammates can look to. I am also a physical defender. I wish to be a defensive players who does a very good job of recognizing patterns the offense tries to throw at us.

On what areas of your game are you tweaking most right now so you can make the next step as a player?

Working on knocking down the three ball, and having an even stronger mentality

You played 2 years at Lackawanna College (JUCO). Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO said it was tough, but an experience they wouldn´t have given up for the world. How was it for you?

JUCO was really tough but I feel like it made me who I am now. I don’t walk into situations expecting anything at all, no matter how good or bad I may be. Everything has to be earned.

How did Brian Coyle groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

My coach let me know the reality of the business side of basketball and life. Life is not fair, and neither is this business. All you can do is your best.

You also played at Northern Vermont University. How was that time playing for Miles Smith?

Playing for coach Miles Smith was a wonderful time. This was the time where I really realized that I could play professionally. We worked all the time and I feel like I flourished while playing for him.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tyhee Taylor?

my guy Tyhee would play 1-1 3 dribbles. I would win some he would win some, but I think I got the most wins

Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA?

Lance Stephenson

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

My 5 favorite teammates were Floyd Davis, Keyon Smith, JJ Winslow, Robert Dubose, Romelle Watt

What is your personal NBA mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, Penny Hardaway, and Rajon Rondo

Who is your GOAT?

My mom

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

No I haven’t seen the sequel. I think I want to remember the film the way it was made back in 1988

Thanks Ayo 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 germanhoops.comabout the 2024 NBA finals.

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

What´s up Miles? I´m in Quackenbruck,catching up with my guy Pat Elzie, the new AD for the Artland Dragons. What he has done for me, I could never repay him, so I came to make him laugh, thank him for helping me get paid to Dunk on people, and also to help him release a bit of the stress that comes with life and Pro Hoops in Germany. I´m blessed, because the basketball life is treating me very well.

It´s summer time. How much do you enjoy this time of the year with so many new Americans coming overseas chasing the dream?

I love this time of year. I know that brand new American´s will reach out to me to see if I can help their Pro Hoop Dream overseas come true and i´ll do my best to make it happen, if they have the proper mindset and PRO Game, it can happen. It feels good that “Big Willy´s in the Pro Hoop scene here,always send these guys my way. That means a lot to me. That´s all I ever wanted, in my playing days, and now when I help Americans that I don´t even know, RESPECT IN THE PRO BASKETBALL WORLD OVERSEAS! Now I have that and it´s a blessing. Plenty of Delusional Ballaz, don´t respect the help I GAVE them or that other´s gave them. Let´s be clear, Pro Hoops in Germany and overseas is a cut throat business. It can chew up players and drop them inside of a Garbage can without missing a beat. I can easily charge guys Consultant fee´s, but I don´t. I know all about being the Hungry Elite Athlete chasing around my tail in a Circle biting at AIR and chasing the hoop dream at the same time! LOL

We have to talk basketball. The Boston Celtics finally won a title again since their last in 2008. How good is this for the NBA in general to have the Celtics back on the map?

It´s great for the NBA that the Celtics have won the Title again. They`re one of the best teams in the history of that league. Of course I´m a lifelong Golden State Warriors fan so I´m upset that Kuminga wasn´t the Finals MVP!

Critics have said for years that Boston just isn´t ready to win the title yet. Did the win surprise you?

I knew that sooner or later, Brown and Tatum would lead their team to a title. They just had to go through the fire like all of the great players before them did.
What was different this year? Was it just another year of experience for Tatum and Brown?

I think the biggest difference was adding Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingas.KP is an Elite Underrated Stud. Holiday, is a proven winner.

What was your prediction going into the finals? Did you have Dallas or Boston winning it all?

Come on Miles baby, we both picked Boston truth be told, I picked them because you´re my guy: I had to ride with you: I thought GSW would win the Title and Draymond Green would average a triple double. LOL!

Both teams had 2 superstars a piece. If you had to rate the 2 against each other, which team would have the better complete package? Wouldn´t Dallas have the edge?

I would always give the edge to Boston. Tatum and Brown are much more athletic and better defenders then Irving and Doncic, but let´s not get that twisted, guarding those two dudes, is ANYONE´S nightmare!

Boston had the better supporting cast, but seriously would the Boston Celtics have won the title without Jrue Holiday?

Boston doesn´t win that title without Holiday,but the guys that impressed me the most were Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard. It´s not easy to sit, then come in and just get buckets off the bench. Pritchard was hitting buzzer beaters with Ease. And White has inside of him what a coach can´t teach, he is the definition of DOG!

Does this title run make Jrue Holiday a top 5 point guard?

I wouldn´t say Holiday is a top 5 Point Guard, but I would say he is the number 1 Swiss Army Knife in the NBA without a doubt!

What is your perception of Luka Doncic not playing defense? Is it fair for his teammates that he plays so much and has to do so much offensively that he can take plays off on defense?

Doncic is a Great Scorer. I don´t think that a guy can get buckets the way he does, carry that team like he has,and also,ball out as a elite defender. I think he will be a decent defender, if he takes it serious. Let´s be REAL,NOBODY in the World can guard Tatum and Brown when they get going.

If you had to pick an unsung hero of the Boston Celtics who would it be? Would Derrick White be a good candidate?

Derrick White for SURE! Anybody that balls with a chipped tooth, is the type of ball player that is a beast!

Is Jayson Tatum a top 5 NBA player now with this title?

Jayson Tatum is a top 5 NBA player without a doubt.

Could the Boston Celtics be a dynasty in the making? If you could add one piece who would it be?

The Boston Celtics could be a dynasty for sure. If I could add 1 piece, I would add my Little Brother Kevin Yebo. He has that Dog Mentality, so he would fit right in with Pritchard and White and let´s not forget,OG Al Horford! Thanks Miles, always good to catch up with you.

No problem Joe.

Every once in a while, you will see a set of brothers on a team. In the NBA there have been some brothers on the same team like The Wagners in Orlando, or some years ago Caleb and Cody Martin in Charlotte. Last season in the NBA there were actually 2 set of brothers on the same team as the Milwaukee Bucks sported the services of Giannis and Thanasis Antetokounmpo and Brook and Robin Lopez. That same scenario happened last season as well in Germany as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had Drago and Ivan Crnjac as well as Joscha and Leif Zengraf. ‘There are a lot of comparisons between both brother duo’s. I would say that they are better shooters, but we are better inside. We understand each other very well’, said Leif Zentgraf (198-SF-2005). Drago is 4,5 years older than Ivan while Leif is 1,30 minutes older than Joscha. The Zengrafs are a very special case in that they are twins. As twins they have been together all their life and obviously spent a lot of time on the court. Playing together all their life has brought out the best in them and it wasn’t always tranquil, but what do you expect when you have 2 very competitive guys who are brothers. ‘I would like to say that I found love to basketball before he did. Growing up with him and playing basketball was always competitive, but we helped each other move ahead in the game. When we were growing up in Munster, we always played together on an outside court. We had bloody noses sometimes after we played. Our mother was very scared. We played so much 1-1 and let out our aggressiveness as nobody wanted to lose to the other. We always played with a competitive nature against each other and competitive nature has remained with us until this day.To be able to play on the same team was very nice. We had a very good connection on the court. I always looked for him when I’m driving. We knew where the other guy always was’, stressed Leif Zentgraf.

The Zentgraf brothers in the BCM in Frankfurt

Leif Zentgraf who mentions ex ACB player of Real Madrid and Current FC Bayern Munich player Dino Radoncic and Speyer guard DJ Woodmore as being his toughest opponents so far on the court was born on November 14, 2005 in Frankfurt. Like so many German kids, he began with soccer and found his love to basketball later when he was 11 years old. His dad played second Bundesliga for Tuebingen and helped him get connected to the game. He played in a camp in Munster and found basketball to be fun and then ended playing soccer. He began in the UBC Munster U-12 team and after the family moved to Frankfurt, he joined the U-14 team of the Fraport Skyliners. Like so many other enthusiastic German boys, his favorite player was Dirk Nowitzki mainly because he was a legend and enjoyed his game, because he wasn’t athletic, but could dominate in other ways. He also loved Kobe Bryant because of his Mamba mentality and work ethic. When he arrived in Frankfurt, his favorite Skyliners were legend Quantez Robertson and Mike Morrison. Off the court he did his Abitur (last year of high school) and his favorite courses were sport and english. He made his NBBL (U-19) debut 2 weeks before his 17th birthday in the 2021-2022 season playing 12 minutes in a 69-47 win over Giessen. He would average 20 minutes that season averaging 4,0ppg and 2,6rpg and shot a respectable 32% from outside. His best game that season was in a win over Sud Hessen where he contributed 10 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists. ‘I was very unsure about my game in my first NBBL season. I didn’t know what my strengths or weaknesses were. I’m very grateful that I could play so much. I was able to develop further and I found my strength as a shooter. Bennet Schubert pushed me a lot. He was like a role model for me. He always tried to integrate me in talks and would talk to me and help my game’, stated Leif Zentgraf. His 2022-2023 season was cut short due to a foot injury. He didn’t miss much that season, because the NBBL team Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners won only 1 game. He played 3 NBBL games and helped the team win their only game of the season over the Tornados scoring 10 points. He also had a great game in a losing cause against FC Bayern Munich with a 13/3/2/1/1 game. He averaged 8,0ppg and 3,7rpg and also made his Pro B debut against Ehingen. ‘We had a poor NBBL season. We had problems staying together as a team and with our work ethic. Too many guys hung their heads after loses and too many were worried about their stats. Despite missing most of the season, I was able to make strides last summer playing much 3-3 games and was able to step up my physicality’, commented Leif Zentgraf.

The German forward who lists Jordan Samare, Nolan Adekunle, Alvin Onyia, Alex Richardson and Trevian Bell as his best teammates of all-time made another step last season in the NBBL and Pro B. His role in the NBBL really grew in the 2023-2024 season as he has jumped to second team top scorer after go to guy Dusan Nikolic. ‘I played the 3-4 position and did many different things like playing pick and role and creating for others. I didn’t just stand in the corner and shoot three’s. I helped lead the team and on defense I rebounded and defended against bigger 3-4 players’, said Leif Zentgraf. In the 2023-2024 NBBL season, he averaged 14.0ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.1apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 59.7%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 70.2%. He scored in double figures 10 times including 22 points against Hanau and 19 points against Sudhessen. He also played 9,0 minutes per game in the Pro B averaging 1,6ppg and 1,1rpg. His role was very different in the Pro B, but he understood exactly what he needed to do to be as successful as possible. ‘It was new for me to play Pro B. The style is different to the NBBL, but I have gotten used to it. My role is to play as well as I can and be an active defender. I know I won’t get many offensive opportunities, but if I can get some transition baskets here and there would be nice. I want to be able to make an impact defensively’, warned Leif Zentgraf. He played against FC Bayern Munich 2 and saw how 8 year ACB player Dino Radoncic and highly talented German Ivan Khartchenkov combined for 40 points in a 95-78 win. It was a crazy experience playing against such an experienced player like Radoncic. ‘I defended him once on a possession. His moves were scary to see. You can hardly believe what he is doing on the court. You realize he is playing at a totally different level. I understand that I have to make many steps to reach his level’, commented Leif Zentgraf. He also doesn’t understand why a guy like Ivan Khartchenkov isn’t on any NBA Mock Drafts yet. ‘Ivan is so talented. He has really improved his physicality which has helped him become dominant. The shots he makes are crazy. His self confidence is so high. He plays an important role on that team’, added Leif Zentgraf who lists Lebron as his GOAT.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Leif Zentgraf at BCM Frankfurt

The twin brother who lists Lebron, Jordan, Kobe and Durant on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore and Nowitzki, Jokic, Doncic and Dennis Schroeder on his personal Euro Mount Rushmore is an allrounder that compares his game to a Franz Wagner of the Orlando Magic. He is a player that has a similar style where he can shoot and drive. His ex NBBL coach Thore Bethke describes him as a very fine player. ‘I know what he means by that. I may not be the most athletic player, but I understand the game well. I play smart as opposed to being to physically aggressive. I play using fundamentals. I like to find others, make flashy passes or special dribble moves’, said Leif Zentgraf. He also doesn’t only want to make an impact and be versatile on the offense end, but also on the defensive end. ‘I’m a physical defender that can cover bigger players. I know how to use my body well guarding bigger players. I can make an impact inside. But I still have problems against smaller guards because I’m lacking a little speed’, warned Leif Zentgraf. Young players should always be working on all aspects of their game and it isn’t any different with him, but there are some aspects of his game that he is concentrating on most at the moment. ‘Communication on defense is important as well as not getting pushed away on straight drives. I’m concentrating on going as straight as possible in order to finish better or make the kick out pass. I’m also concentrating on 1-1 defense’, stressed Leif Zentgraf. All in all, it isn’t only the coaching staff in Frankfurt that has helped him progress his game further, but also twin Joscha. ‘I feel like Joscha has really helped me know how to use my body correctly. He is wider and more physical. That has really helped change my game positively. Some years ago I never thought about bumps, but now I know how to create space’, warned Leif Zentgraf. He turned 18 a few months ago and is an ambitious player that decided to take on a new challenge and will play with Pro B team TSV Neustadt this season. He definitely is a very talented German player that surely will go his route in the next years. Over the years one of my favorite questions in interviews especially with American players is who won a 1-1 in a game with one of their ex college teammates. 99% of the time, the guy asked takes themselves. How is it in a 1-1 between Leif and Joscha? Well Leif was very neutral and not self absorbed and went with 50/50. I wonder if Joscha would be as diplomatic and answer the same as his twin?

Deontray Anderson (180) is a 180cm guard that played at Oak Hills Christian College (NCCAA). He will take part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Italy in July 2024. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I´m in Dallas, Texas at the moment just working and basketball is going very smooth for me. Making sure I stay in shape and continuing to improve my skills.

You just finished your NAIA season. How excited are you to be testing the pro waters this summer?

I am very excited. It’s a blessing and I thank God for getting this opportunity to be able to test my skills overseas and see the differences in overseas basketball.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Italy. Will this be your first time overseas? With what type of expectations are you coming

Yes this will be my first time being overseas and being in a different part of the world. My expectations are to come into this combine and stay locked in the whole time. Do not be distracted nor discouraged about anything. Just play my game and be a great teammate/leader.

How did you find contact to CEO Ron Howard? His network keeps growing from day to day.

One of my contacts named Sean helped me reach out to him and told me a few things about Ron. I messaged him one day and we just connected after that. He’s a great, helpful person and cares about people.

How aware are you of his incredible track record of more than a decade of getting guys jobs overseas for more than a decade now?

I was aware when I did my research and how he told me before that he tries his very best to help guys fulfill their overseas dreams to get a spot on someone’s team. Just the way he talks about helping players get jobs overseas helps me know he definitely cares about the players.

What was your first impression of him? What did you appreciate first from him about his demeanor and character?

Ron came across very honest and made a great first impression of himself. Before the first conversation we had, I was hesitant at first, but after the long talk we had, it helped me see how great his character is and who he is as a person.

It is really difficult for NAIA guys find jobs overseas but it has been done more than not. How big is your hunger to prove people wrong?

I just try to continue to know who I’m doing it for and just let the other people think what they want to. Anything is possible and as long as I keep my perseverance and continue to be resilient, I’ll be fine.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 180cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I would say that I compare my game to Trae Young. I’ve heard a lot of people say that I play very similar to him because of how I use my float game and my ability to shoot from distance.

You have proven that you are a very reliable scorer, but what other strengths does your game have?

Other strengths that I have is knowing how to be a great leader, my hustle, endurance, and my defense is starting to be one of my greatest strengths.

Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of defender are you right now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I am working on my defense and it is getting better and better everyday. I want to be able to play defense like Davion Mitchell. I’ve watched a lot of film on how he plays defense and I try to emulate that. I want to be a dog on defense and be aggressive, but not too too aggressive.

On what areas of your game are you tweaking most right now so you can make the next step as a player?

I’m learning how to make more mid range shots consistently, learning how to build my IQ on the court, learning how to be a better defender, learning how to be a more effective leader, and learning how to be a 3 level scorer.

You began your career at Paul Quinn college,. What memories do you have of the early days?

I remembered when I first tried out for Paul Quinn and made the team. This was my first time ever playing collegiate sports so I was very nervous in a lot of these games. Once I got adjusted, the game kind of came natural. I was not as good as I am now, so I have developed my game during those times. I am very thankful that I got the opportunity to play in my first collegiate games there.

You then played at Oak Hills Christian College. What kind of an experience were these years? You lost many games there. How tough was it facing adversary a lot?

Transferring to Oak Hills was a major step for me. Coming from Dallas and going up to Minnesota was exciting for me but I was also anxious. First year was a development year for me to help elevate my game more and to see what teams I would be playing against. Close to the end of the first year was when I started growing as a player. I saw myself evolve over that year. The second year was my breakout year where I averaged 25ppg and achieved player of the year which helped me prove a lot of people wrong. My third year was a year for me was to learn how to take the leadership role instead of just trying to be the scorer role. It helped me bond with my teammates and create great chemistry with them. I did lose a lot of games there but to me they weren’t losses. They were lessons for me to see what we could do better on the next game. Although I do not like losing, it helps me build my character. I never let it get to me and always tried to seek positivity out of that loss. I thank God for the opportunity for being able to play all my years at Oak Hills Christian College. It changed my life around in a lot of great ways.

What was your fondest moment there? You showed that you were a versatile player in many games?

My fondest moment there was probably just being able to bond with my teammates and being on and off the court with them. We made each other better and challenged ourselves in different ways. Every time we traveled, there were always great vibes and attitudes. Even when we lost, we still found a way to smile.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Quincy Wilson?

It would be a great game between me and Quincy because we have a lot to be bring to the table with how our games are so versatile, but I know that I’ll win.

Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA?

The best player that I have faced would be Mason Jones. He played in the G league and had made it to the NBA as well so that’s one of the best players I’ve faced on the court by far.

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

My top 5 teammates would be Mark, Jerome, Manny, Josiah, and Jex.

What is your personal NBA mount rushmore of past or present heads?

Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Steph Curry, and Kevin Durant.

Who is your GOAT and why?

My GOAT is Kobe Bryant. Kobe is just a great, intelligent person in general. The way he impacted the game changed a lot of people´s lives and I was one of those people. It’s the way he speaks to you and informs about being greater than good. A lot of his quotes have stuck to me and will always be in my memory.

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

I think the sequel to the movie wasn’t that bad to me. I actually enjoyed it.

Thanks Deontray for the chat.

One of my big passions in basketball has always been covering German youth basketball. In the last 10 years, I have seen so many incredible players come up in the ranks. And taking pics with players in general has always stuck with me especially since my youth in the 80´s where I was able to take pics with future NBA legends like Bernard King and Bill Cartwright. Over the years, I have seen great young German players at the top 4 NBBL and JBBL tournaments and was always ready to take pics with players where I knew that perhaps one day, they might reach the NBA. In 2017, I interviewed a sad Oscar Da Silva in Frankfurt after losing the final to rival FC Bayern Munich. Ok so he didn´t reach the NBA, but Euroleague. In 2018 I had the first post game interview with Franz Wagner after scoring 24 points and getting MVP honors for leading Alba Berlin to the NBBL title and in 2019, I took a photo with Ariel Hukporti (214-C-2002) and Joshua Obiesie in Jena at the top 4. Obiesie was present to receive NBBL MVP and Hukporti was there to get Rookie of the year honors When you interview so many guys like I do, things slip by. I just remembered that I called a NBBL game between Eintracht Frankfurt-Franport Skyliners-Ludwigsburg in January 2020 where Hukporti led his team to a 76-61 win with a 19/9 game. I interviewed him after and took a picture with him. I had already heard then that Hukporti was a massive talent and could make the NBA one day. 5 years later Ariel Huckporti was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks at the 2024 NBA draft as the last pick and then shipped to the New York Knicks. I was happy that I had another pic with a player for my NBA collection.

I reach new Hakro Merlins head coach David McCray on a cool July morning a day before July 4th as he is on his way to Crailsheim. There isn´t a better guy to talk to than him concerning Hukporti who was his teammate and coach at the NBBL and easyCredit BBL level. The German big man who is 22 years old and is 214cm was already playing NBBL (U-19) ball as McCray was still a pro in the 2018-2019 season. He made his Basketball Champions League debut at age 16 scoring 4 points in a 1 minute of play against Turkish team Banvit and scored 6 points in 9 minutes a day before his 17th birthday against Euroleague team FC Bayern Munich. His stellar play at already a young age was no surprise to anyone. “You could already see then in 2018 how talented a player he was. We had a very good relationship already from the start. I was like a mentor for him. It was really exciting to see then how good he was”, said David McCray. McCray who had a stellar 16 year career where he played more than 400 easyCredit BBL games and 9 seasons with the MHP Riesen retired in 2019 and then went into coaching in the Riesen organization. He remembers Hukporti´s rise as a player as if it was yesterday and in the 2019-2020 season, he played 19 BBL games averaging 2/1 stats and in the NBBL averaged 17/9 stats while also juggling school. “It was a big challenge going to school and playing. He always brought much energy and trained really hard. He always gave his all even if he played little minutes. He could still impact the game with his length”, remembered David McCray. Hukporti had the luxury of battling talented center Jonas Wolfarth-Bottermann on a daily basis. “Jonas took him under his wing and really helped him with his post game. It was great to see them play against each other last season when Jonas was with Hamburg”, added David McCCray.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber interviewing Ariel Hukporti after he dropped 19 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in a 76-61 win in Frankfurt in NBBL play in January 2020

In the 2020-2021 season he left Germany to play for Nevezis Kedainiai (Lithuania-LKL). It was surely not easy to leave his comfort zone in Ludwigsburg, but it really paid off as he had a solid season averaging 10.4ppg, Reb-3 (7.4rpg), 1.4apg, Blocks-1 (1.2bpg), FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 27.7%, FT: 53.6%. “Going to Lithuania was vital for his development. He became a man in Lithuania. It was the first time that he had been away from home. It wasn´t easy, but he got through adversary and conquered. It was part of his story and helped him so much”, said David McCray. He displayed consistency and despite losing twice to Euroleague team Zalgiris, he held his own against former NBA players scoring 17 and 14 points. After a season in Lithuania, he surprised people again by going down under and playing 2 seasons in Australia with the Melbourne United (Australia-NBL) averaging 6.7ppg, 4.8rpg, Blocks-5 (1.3bpg), FGP: 52.3%, FT: 66.2% and in his third season averaged 7.9ppg; 7.1rpg, Blocks-2 (1.5bpg), FGP: 57.6%, FT: 61.9%. He sat out his second season on account of injury. Many underestimate the NBL league in Australia and for him to develop his game further there wasn´t wrong. “It was the plan for him to go to Australia and then the NBA. In the last years so many NBA guys have played there and guys have been drafted who have played there. He got good minutes for a good team at a high level. He had a very good athletic trainer who helped him make the next step with his strength and physicality”, stated David McCray.

After finishing his second season down under, Hukporti returned back to Ludwigsburg at the end of last season playing 3 BBL games averaging 5.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.0bpg. So how was Hukporti a different player in 2024 to when he left in 2020? For McCray there was no sudden change, mainly because he had continued to see him each summer because he returned back to train with him. “Guys like the Patrick brothers and Lukas Herzog would train with him. Tyreese Blunt and Dejan Bruce were also always there. Those 2 are his best friends. They are like brothers. He turned into a real rim protector and rebounder at the NBA level. I will never forget the game against Heidelberg. He played 20 minutes getting 7 points, 11 rebounds and 3 blocks. There were 10-12 lay up attempts by Heidelberg that he effected with his height and length. The smaller players couldn´t see the rim and couldn´t finish. He was an essential factor in us winning the game. That is a very important skill that is wanted in the NBA. His rim protection skills and rebounding helped him immensely to get drafted”, warned David McCray. McCray has so many fond memories of him on the court especially from his young years. “There was a game where he had an ok first half. At half time we told him that we really needed him. He came back in the second half with 4 tip dunks and 5 blocks and impacted the game and led us to the win. We told him to give gas and he decided the game in 5 minutes”, remembered David McCray. But it isn´t only the great basketball moments on the court that will forever glued in McCray´s mind, but also off the court where Hukporti is a real genuine good guy who is always there for friends. “He has a big heart and when your in his inner circle, he will give you his all. I will never forget how he spent time with my 8 year old daughter and played with her dolls for an hour. That is exactly what type of person he is”, stressed David McCray.

Joshua Obiesie, Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Ariel Hukporti at the 2019 NBBL top 4 in Jena

In the last years Ariel Hukporti appeared on the various NBA Mock drafts, but was no guaranteed NBA draft pick, but sometimes all it takes is for one organization to really like him and that was the case with the Dallas Mavericks who drafted him with the last pick at #58. “It was so emotional for me when I heard his name get picked. I was praying when the last pick was called. We have a group chat with Blunt and Bruce and we all screamed when his name was called. I spoke to him after. He deserved it so much. Despite the bumps in the road and injuries, he never gave up and stuck with it. We are all so proud of him”, stressed David McCray. How good of a fit with Hukporti will the Knicks have? “He is a great fit. They are all so confident that he will fit in New York. He has mobility, strength, power and quickness. What many don´t really know is that he has such a good feeling for the game. His spacing is great and he is such an unbelievable defender. I always preached to him about playing defense. He is an incredible rim protector and defender. That will go hand in hand with a defensive minded coach like Tom Thibodeau. That is why the Knicks got him. I believe he will get a chance there and prove he can play. I think by the end of the season he will be in the rotation”, expressed David McCray. The interesting thing is as one German Isaiah Hartenstein has left the Knicks for greener pastures in Oklahoma City as he signed a 3 year 87 million contract, the next German comes to the Knicks with Huckporti. The many similarities are refreshing starting with the letter H in their last names, but they continue. “Both are German. Both played In Lithuania. Both are lefties. Both were dominant players in the NBBL. Both have so many similarities in their game. I hope Ariel can take the same path as Isaiah has in the NBA”, warned David McCray.