Chris Oliver is a 28 year old 198cm forward that completed his second season in France and first with Nanterre helping them win the France Pro A title. Last season with Nanterre he played 31 games: 10.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 85.2%, He is a athletic forward that has great hands, the versatility to play inside and outside, with three-point range on his jump shot, and has tremendous poise and maturity. He played at Radford from 2003-2007 and in his senior year, he played 30 games averaging 18.8ppg, 8.3rpg, 2.1apg, 1.9spg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 48.7%, 3Pts: 25.8%, FT: 74.8%. He came to Germany in 2007-2008 and played for the Kaiserslautern Braves of the PRO A playing 30 games: Score-2(20.5ppg), Reb-5(9.0rpg), 1.2apg, 1.3spg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 56%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 79.6%.In 2008-2009 in Goettingen, he averaged 10.6ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.4spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 75.5% in 34 games. In 2009-2010, he won the Eurochallenge with BG Goettingen and played EuroChallenge: 13 games: 11.5ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 77.1%; German League: 35 games: 14.1ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 80.9%. In 2010-2011 he played with the The Walter Tigers Tuebingen, and he averaged 13,5ppg and 6,4rpg. In 2011-2012 he played with Strassburg and played  30 games: 11.4ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 84.7%. There have been rumours that he medi Bayreuth have interest in his services. The American talked to German Hoops about basketball.

Chris thanks for talking to German Hoops. How was your summer? Did you mostly spend time in North Carolina and Miami or did you visit other nice places?

My summer has been good. As I always I spent a couple weeks in Miami with my dad and a couple weeks in Orlando with my cousins. And took a couple visits to Vegas as well. And the rest of the time I have been home in North Carolina.

How difficult was it to play a superb season for Nanterre, but get injured and miss the playoffs. How were you able to cope with the idea that you were a champion of the French pro A despite not being able to help in the playoffs?

It was difficult to play well especially the second half of the season and then get hurt in the 1st quarter of the first game of the playoffs. But I was still part of the team even if I wasn’t able to play. And the guys always reminded me of that. My teammates were great.

You had a slow start, but really picked it up at Christmas and had a strong second half of the season. What were the main reasons for the slow start?

I had to adjust to playing the 4 and had to get used to coaches style but once I was able to do that I settled down and just played my game. Praise and glory to God.

How tough was it losing both games to ex team Strassburg during the regular season? I guess the team got revenge in the playoffs.

It’s always tough losing to your former team especially when you have close friends on the other team like Alexis Ajinca and Ricardo and Jeff Greer.

What was the secret behind the success of Nanterre. Was this your typical Cinderella story of a team that know one thought had any chance of winning the title?

We just played hard and played together all season and did the same n the playoffs. And of course it was a Cinderella story lol. We barely got in the playoffs as the 8th seed and then won it all. God is good.

What were you able to learn from ex coach Vincent Collet that has helped you as a player?

Coach Collet is one of the best and smartest coaches I have played for. He helped my shooting, guarding players on down screens, using the ball screen.

France has another very strong team with 7 NBA players and your ex teammate Alexis Ajinca. How far do you see France going at the European championships in Slovenia?

France is always VERY tough and I believe they have a chance to win it all.

It is very late in the off season and you still are unsigned. What are your options at the moment? Just weighing your options? Do you see yourself returning to France for a third season?

Talking to some teams right now and waiting for a great situation to present itself. I won’t rule out going to any country.

Medi Bayreuth just released Zach Morley and are looking for a forward. There are rumours that you are a candidate to go back to Germany. Would this be an option for you?

Of course I would go back to Germany. I had a lot of success there as a player and on my teams. Especially in Gottingen. If the rumors were true I would be interested lol.

Would you enjoy playing for Predrag Krunic who had much success with Oldenburg?

I don’t know the coach very well only playing against him. But he seemed to be a great coach and the players always seemed to like playing for him. So I think I would enjoy it as well.

How excited would you be to share the forward position with Ronald Burrell?

Ronnie is a great player but I don’t think we would be sharing a forward spot. He is 4 and i play the 3. I think we would play well together. And compliment each other well.

How does a normal Chris Oliver work out day look like in 2013?

Usually have a workout 9-10:30 then get some food and relax until the second workout from 3:30-5. And will lift for about an hour either after my second workout or in between the two.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD movie that I saw was 42. The movie about Jackie Robinson and it was great.

Thanks Chris for the chat.

Ben Simons is a 22 year old 203cm forward from Cadiliac, Michigan that recently signed as a rookie with the Walter Tigers Tuebingen for the 2013-2014 season. He played at Drake from 2009-2010 playing a total of 123 NCAA games. As a senior he played 32 games: 14.1ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 88.0%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Thanks Ben for talking to German Hoops. You didn´t waste any time as a rookie finding your first professional basketball team Walter Tigers Tuebingen in Germany. Were you 100% sure that this team was right for you? What were the main reasons for coming to the Tigers?

I was pretty sure it was a great situation for me to come into for my rookie year. I have known Josh Young for a while and he has told me great things about the city and also the team and coaching staff. I think Tuebingen will be a great spot for me to start my career.

You didn´t have any idea of testing the market more searching for more offers?

I didn’t know if it would have mattered to me to wait. I think this is a great situation for me. It is nice to know where I am going to be playing next season and I can just concentrate on getting better this summer and improve on my game.

How excited are you about being a rookie in the best league in Germany Beko BBL? What do you know about the country Germany and the team Walter Tigers Tuebingen?

I am very excited to join the team and be in an outstanding league. I have been to Germany once a few summers ago on an amateur tour and enjoyed my time very much. I never was anywhere near Tuebingen but I have heard it is a great city. I also do not know much about the team yet, I know they are a team on the rise in the league and hopefully with hard work we can continue to build on what they have been doing.

How much of a factor was your ex teammate Josh Young in you coming to Tuebingen?

It was a big factor. Having Josh here for when I begin my career my rookie year will be very nice. He has been on the team for two years now and will be able to help me assimilate into the culture and the team easier than I would have been able to on my own. I am excited to be able to play with Josh again.

You played at Drake from 2009-2013. When looking at your stats, the two most significant stats that pop up is your good three point shooting. Do you often get the label for being one dimensional?

I think if you look at the stats that is something that a person might think. I hope that if you would watch a game though someone would be able to see other things I do on the court. I try and improve my all around game every year and continue to become better at everything on the court. Obviously shooting is one of my strengths but I try and do as many things as I can on the court.

What is a strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

I think something I do well is just understand the game. I have been around the game my whole life. My father was a coach for 30 years and everyone in my family has played or coach. I have seen a lot of basketball and watch a lot so I try and take things I see or people have told me and put it into what I do on the court.

You grabbed under four rebounds your last two seasons in the NCAA which is little for a 203cm man. Is rebounding something on your to do list to improve?

It definitely is something that I want to improve on. I think that when I keep getting stronger and more mature as a player it will be something I can improve on.

You played four years at Drake for head coach Mark Phelps. What was the most important thing that you learned from him that will have you ready for the start of your professional basketball career?

The thing he was big on is you get what you put in. So he was always saying that if you put in the work and work hard it will show on the court. I will try and put in as much work in the off season and extra work during the season to be the best player I can be.

What was your most fondest memory on and off the court with Josh Young with whom you played one season with?

My best memory with Josh was when we played Southern Illinois in the Missouri Valley Tournament my Freshmen year, his senior year, and he made the game winning shot with about a second left on the clock. It was a cool moment and a great shot by Josh.

How much of an honor was it being named Associated Press Michigan Class B Player of the Year in 2009? Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo visited one of your practices at Cadilac high school.

It was a great honor to be named Class B Player of the year. We had a good year and it was a great Senior year of High school. Yes, Coach Izzo came up to Cadillac to watch me work out my Junior year once. He didn’t really give me any advice but it was a great honor for him to make the trip up and come watch me work out.

Many remember NBA player Anthony Tolliver and current Beko BBL player Dane Watts playing at Creighton(NCAA), but I think you wont forget Creighton for another reason. Is not making a three pointer in a game like the equivalent for a Kevin Love not getting a double double?

Creighton was our big rival at Drake. So anytime you don’t play well against them it hurts a little more than against someone else. They had a great team when I was in school and not playing well in a game against them was not something I ever liked to do.

Who is your shooting idol and too what NBA player could you describe your shooting style to?

I didn’t really have a idol I guess but someone I looked at to try and be like in high school was Richard Hamilton when he played for the Detroit Pistons. He was always moving without the ball and I wanted to play like he did. I probably shoot more threes than he did but just his movement off the ball and coming off screens was something that I wanted to be able to do.

How does a normal work out day look like for Ben Simmons?

Right now I go in and lift for about an hour or so. After that I will start with ballhandling drills, then I will work on different finishes around the basket, next I will work on shooting off the dribble and doing different moves into shots, then normally finish my workouts with a lot of spot shooting.

Who was the toughest player that you played against in the NCAA that might be in the NBA now?

I think the best player we played was Doug McDermott from Creighton. He could have entered the NBA this year but decided ultimately to return to school. He is a very good player and I’m sure will have a good year this year too.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I actually just saw the Hangover Part 3 last night. I didn’t think it was as good as the first one but still had some very funny parts.

Thanks Ben for the chat

Logan Stutz is a 25 year old 205cm forward from Kanas City that recently finished his second season as a professional and first with the  ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (Germany-ProA): 28 games: Score-1(20.1ppg), Reb-5(8.1rpg), 1.2apg, FGP: 64.0%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 74.0%.    He moves his basketball talent this season to LF Basket (Sweden-Basketligan). He started his basketball career at Washburn (NCAA2). Last season he was a rookie and played for  BG Topstar Leitershofen/Stadtbergen (Germany-ProA, starting five): 11 games: 16.1ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 68.1%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 76.8%, left in Dec.’11, in Jan.’12 moved to WBC Raiffeisen Wels (Austria-A Bundesliga): 16 games: 4.2ppg, 2.3rpg. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball during the last season when he was with Essen.

Before the season many said that the ETB Wohnbau Baskets could make some noise. Why has the season turned out differently?

It has been a tough season. We won some close games, but also lost some close games. We have had ups and downs like many teams do, but more downs. It has been frustrating not being more consistent.

The team gave up many points often. Why did the team have difficulty defending?

There had been a new defensive scheme this season and had been new too many on the team. Learning it took a lot of work. It is hard to leatn it in just one season. I believe that if we were together longer as a unit then we would learned it better.

How difficult is it for you a player who has great stats not be labeled as a player that doesn´t just play for stats for a bad team?

It is tough and people have their opinions. I always play hard and I have been fortunate to be shooting at a high percentage this season. I always try to take good shots and not force anything. I also try to get the ball to my teammates. I will always take a team win over a loss and good stats.

Was the win against Duesseldorf the biggest team win this season?

It was our biggest win. It was a derby win which is always nice and many guys got involved and many fans came to the game.

How happy are you too have a guy like Joe Hendly helping you on the boards?

He is a very active player that always works hard. Every team needs a guy like him. He does the dirty work and will always dive on the floor for a ball.

If you have Fabian Franke and Marco Buljevic parked in the corner, who would hit more shots out of 10?

Marco hits unbelievably in practice. I bet he could make 90 out of 100. He faces very tough defenses in games. Fabian has hit big shots this season and if I had a choice I would chose to put the ball in the hands of Fabian.

How difficult was it getting used to the European style of basketball?

I have gotten used to the PRO A now. The hardest rule has been the traveling rule, but my experiences in Germany and Austria have made me a better player.

Would double double stats be your ticket to the Beko BBL?

I think it would help my chances. I could rebound better. I need to improve in that area and gain some weight. I think though I could help a Beko BBL team now with my energy and being active.

What memory do you have from your 44 points 17 rebound explosion against Leipzig?

That was a fun game and it is hard to explain what happened in that game. I had that feeling that each ball would go in. I hit three pointers, difficult shots and got offensive rebounds. I just felt like I couldn´t be stopped in this game.

A hidden strength in your game is your outside shooting. Do you have a shooter as a role model?

I don´t have on a particular shooter as a role model. If I had to choose one player then it would be Dirk Nowitzki. It is always fun to watch a big man that can shoot.

Who would win a wrestling match you or Joe Buck?

He would probably break me in half. He is a very aggressive player.

You grew up in Kansas City. How tough was it growing up in a city without an NBA team?

It was tough and to this day I have still not been to an NBA game. However there is a lot of good college basketball in the mid west. I went to many games growing up.

Who were your NBA idols as a kid?

I didn´t really have any until recently. I really like Chris the bird man Anderson form the Miami Heat. I love his energy and how he rebounds and blocks shots. He helps his team so much and I try to bring energy like he does to his team.

Was a reason you went to Washburn(NCAA2) because it was so close to home?

Yes I had a close knit family and it was important being close to home. Washburn was only one hour away. I did have some offers from other schools, but Washburn was a good fit.

How did Washburn head coach Bob Chippman get you prepared for a professional basketball career?

He helped me much in my senior year. He gave me more responsibility and let me be a leader. This helped me mature which is always important when you come overseas.

Who was the toughest player that you played against at Washburn that might be in the NBA now?

Thomas Robinson from K.U who is playing with Houston Rockets now.

What was your wake up call as a rookie?

I had two wake up calls. The first one was in my first game with Leitershofen. We lost badly at home and I released that I had to get good fast or I might not be around any longer and my second wake up call was when I got hurt and got cut. I realized then that basketball is a business and teams are only looking out what is best for them.

Quentin Pryor dunked over you in Austria. Were you able to get revenge over him?

We always went hard in practice, but I didn´t get revenge on him. He got the last laugh.

How did you help young German Lukas Kloss better in practice?

I tried to show him that you always have to work hard in practice. He has talent and needs to pay attention and just be focused more.

Who wins a one on one in one in practice, you or brother Garett Stutz?

We don´t go too hard. If we took it seriously then it would get ugly. I win some and he wins some.

You like to visit cultures in Europe. What places do you still want to visit?

In Germany I want to go to Berlin and in Europe to Rome.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row without missing?

I usually try to end practice by making 10 in a row. Sometimes when I am on a roll I make 20-30 in a row.

What was your most crazy shot in your career?

I hit a game winner in Heidelberg. I didn´t notice until later that there were only two seconds on the clock.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

How to train your pet dragon.

Thanks Logan for the chat.

Germany has never lost to Greece in soccer as there always seems to be a clear advantage in playing class in favor for the Germans  as winning in their history has been as easy so far with or without an Otto Rehhagel  for Greeceas it is for Tom Brady to find new targets without an Aaron Hernandez, actress Amamnda Bynes going on the same  destructive path as Lindsay Lohan, or FC Bayern Munich soccer team most likely blowing away the Bundesliga competition this season. However in basketball, it is another story as Greece has been a power house in Europe for years while Germany hasn´t had much to show at international tournaments in the last 20 years except for three medals in 1993(Gold), 2002(Bronze) at the world championships and a silver at the 2005 european championships. Both teams met at a four country tournament in Strassburg, France in preparation for the 2013 European championships and Greece slowly got started, but picked up more and more in each quarter destroying Germany 80-52. It was the second straight win for Greece in Strassburg while Germany lost their second game at the tournament. Germany who had lost to France twice in the last four days were hoping for more luck against Greece, but just couldn´t find  a groove against their nasty and unpredictable Greece defense. “We played against a top team that defended very well. Their defense didn´t give us much space to work with and we used much energy on offense and with time we got more tired which led to more mistakes. They really had a very nasty way to defend in which they were always switching and it was just very unorthodox. It really takes a lot of time to get used to”, stressed BBC Bayreuth point guard Nicolai Simon.

Greece was without top players like Vassilis Spannoulis and Sofoklis baby Shaq Schortsanitis while Germany was without FC Bayern Munich forward Robin Benzing and Nicolai Simon. Germany got out of the starting blocks taking a quick 4-0 lead as Per Guether hit a pull up jumper and ex Bamberg center Tibor Pleiss connected on a left handed hook shot. Greece quickly showed their ability to knock down shots as if they were on a Sunday stroll licking ice cream at 35c on the shore of Rhodos as Loukas Mavrokefalidis and Euroleague veteran Antonio Fotsis nailed shots to give Greece the 5-4 lead. Both teams traded the lead for a few more minutes as Heiko Schaffartzik found  a crack in the defense and slipped to the basket for a slick floater and 6-5 Germany lead. However Mavrokefaldis continued to give German head coach Frank Menz head aches with his hot shooting as he hit a jumper for the 7-6 Greece lead. Heiko Schaffartzik then hit a pull up jumper out of the fast break similar to the way Skyliner legend Pascal Roller did it all throughout his career As Germany led 9-7. Kostas Sloukas tied the score with a jumper, but Philipp Zwiener quickly gave Germany the lead again 11-9. Both teams had found their groove on offense rapidly, but neither team was able to establish an inside game. However Greece then turned the momentum in their favor and took control of the game with one substitution. France head coach Vincent Collet inserted sixth man Giorgas Printezis who led Greece on a 10-0 run to close out the first quarter and Germany would never be able to recover again. The Greek 206cm forward who was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs and has played 117 Euroleague games scored back to back buckets and got to the free throw line. Ian Vougioukas also scored in the drive, but it was the bearded Printezis that got Greece into a strong offensive comfort zone and Germany had no answer on how to control him. “Printezis got Greece going. He is a very nasty player, because he is a very mobile four man that will go where it hurts and is very versatile. It was very tough against him”, stated Nicolai Simon.

In the second quarter, Germany was able to get back into the game with a mix of press defense and more aggressive play on offense. Bastian Doreth hit  a jumer and Tibor Pleiss canned free throws as Germany trailed only 19-15. However Germany was unable to get  a big run going as Greece just had consistent three point shooting in their vast arsenal as Startos Perperoglu connected on a three pointer for the 22-15 lead. Germany would show flashes of offensive strength as Heiko Schaffartzik gave  a perfect lob pass to Andreas Seiferth for the easy lay in and Lucca Staiger hit free throws as Germany trailed only 24-19. Just when one thought that this might be the Germany run, Greece was able to ram a dagger into the German hearts as they rushed out on a 7-0 run to lead comfortably 31-19. In the run, Greece got another basket from Mavrokefaldis as he snuck back door for an easy lay in and Kostas Vasileidis hit back to back buckets. Heiko Schaffartzik stopped the run with one of his typical bombs from downtown as Germany trailed only 31-22. The Berlin native who has played for seven different German teams is the captain and with no NBA help from Dirk Nowitzki, Chris Kaman, Elias Harris or Dennis Schroeder has very much responsibility and at times looks more than overstrained to try to do everything on the court and be a type of savior, but even if he can´t master all at once, his heart is bigger than most players on the court. “He is our most experienced player and really leads us well. He will talk in the dressing room and we all listen. He does the best that he can to help us win”, added Nicolai Simon. Greece closed out the second quarter with baskets from Fotsis and Mavrokefaldis. Greece had the comfortable 39-26 lead at halftime. “Greece played very smart and just knew what they wanted to do, reading our defense well and doing their game plan well. They had good ball movement, made the extra pass and had their shooters ready”, commented ex Alba Berlin guard Nicolai Simon.

As the third quarter started, the game at first seemed like a day at a second hand store, as it seemed like many fans in the Sig arena were at a designer store as they were cheering more loudly at the French players like Tony Parker, Boris Diaw or Nando De Colo who entered the court to watch the third quarter. Greece continued to have their offense speak for themselves as they continued to connect their shots as Vougioukas and Printezis hit, but Germany continued to hover around a 10 point deficit scoring anyway they could. Alex King and Lucca Staiger nailed three pointers as Greece only led 46-32. Then came the best moment of 2011 NCAA champion of Uconn Nils Giffey who scored a big hoop with a nice hesitation step finding daylight and penetrating to the hoop with one second on the shot clock. He then made a pretty shovel pass to Pleiss for a put back and then made a steal leading Germany back trailing Greece only 46-36. Giffey is a newcomer with the German national team, but he isn´t shy, but using his minutes wisely and getting praise from his teammates. “I like his game. He has the prefect size and has a good attitude. I think that he has a bright future with the national team”, added Nicolai Simon. However Greece continued to stifle Germany with their unorthodox defense and were able to add on to their lead closing out the third quarter with a 14-6 run to lead 61-43. Printezis continued to hurt Germany with his powerful offense scoring twice hard to the hoop. Germany was more aggressive getting to the hole and cutting the Greece lead back to ten, but Greece used their 56% three point shooting to their advantage as Kostas Papanikolaou hit two three pointers and Fotsis drilled another as a ten point lead quickly turned into a 17 point lead. “We were able to cut their lead to ten points a few times, but we gave them three pointers and they hit them. Our goal was to help and collapse to close the zone, but they used it to their advantage with their outside shooting”, explained Nicolai Simon.

Greece quickly shut the door on Germany in any hopes of sneaking back into the game with a 13-0 run to start the fourth quarter as they extended their lead to 74-43. Vougiokas, Vasileadis and Perperoglou all scored inside as Germany was helpless on defense and their strength seemed to be be waning. Schaffartzik ended the run with another deep three pointer as Germany trailed 74-46. Katsivelis then scored on a pretty head fake in the zone and dunk getting some crowd response. Germany closed out the game with a spurt and one of their better few minutes of play in the game scoring three consecutive times as one had to wonder why they couldn´t capitalize on their offense more consistently like this earlier in the game. Schaffartzik found Pleiss with a lob pass and easy put back. Germany definitely were unable to get their inside game more going. Germany then displayed lovely ball movement finding the extra pass to an open Zwiener who hit from outside and Giffey then dunked home the perfect give and go play. “We were tired in the fourth quarter. We made more mistakes. We fought until the end, but it is very frustrating when you try new things and they don’t work because the opponent is defending so well”, expressed Nicolai Simon.

Greece was led by Kostas Vasileidis and Giorgos Printezis with 12 points a piece. Antonis Fotsis added 11 points. Germany was led by captain Heiko Schaffartzik with 11 points. Tibor Pleiss and Bastian Doreth both had 8 points  a piece. Greece shot very well with 56% from the field and from outside while Germany 40% from the field and 28% from outside. Greece won the rebound duel 24-23 and Germany had 16 turnovers while Greece had 11. Greece also dominated in the playmaking with 21-9 assists. Germany doesn´t have much time to relax as Croatia is the next opponent in less than 24 hours in their last game in Strassburg Sunday. “We have to forget this loss and bring more energy against Croatia. We are going into the Croatia game to win”, warned Tibor Pleiss.

Anthony Young is a 23 year old 200cm forward from Indianapolis, Indiana that will starting his second  season in Germany and first with the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen. He started his basketball career in 2008 for  Kankakee CC (JUCO) where he played until 2010. He finished his two last seasons of school at  Ky Wesleyan (NCAA2) an din his senior year played  31 games: 19.7ppg, 7.9rpg, FGP: 49.9%, 3Pts: 40.0%, FT: 84.6%. Last season as a professional rookie he played for BSV Wulfen (Germany-ProB, starting five): 22 games: Score-4(21.1ppg), 8.7rpg, 1.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 82.3%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Congrats on making the jump from the Pro B to the Pro A. You signed very late in the off season to Essen. Were you getting  a bit itchy about finding a team?

I signed late because I was in talks with the Dallas Mavericks D-League team the Texas Legends, and basically I had long talks with my family and my agents over at scorers first. And we decided that Essen Pro A was the best decision for me going forward. And I am very happy with my decision!

You dominated the Pro B last season for BSV Wulfen. How pleased were you with your season coming from college? What things will you want to improve this coming season?

I really enjoyed my time in Wulfen. The fans were GREAT! And they supported us through the good and the bad. I really enjoyed my time there. And going forward I just want to win more games and go far in the playoffs.

You scored in double figures in each game. What was your season game highlight last season with BSV Wulfen?

My season highlight with Wulfen I would say was beating Recklinghousen on the road!! That game really brought us closer together as a team and I remember turning the ball over and my teammate chased down the guy from Recklinghousen and blocked his shot for me. Great memories l!

You only played nine games with American Laron Griffin, but what will you always remember from him on and off the court?

Laron Griffin was a great teammate first and was someone who always kept a smile on his face and worked harder than anybody else in practice. Laron is one of the best teammates I’ve ever had!

You now start a new adventure with the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen. How positive are you that you can make the jump from Pro B to Pro A?

I am very positive that I can make the jump! I’m a very confident player but I’m also humble, I know that my game is ready for Pro A and it will speak for itself! I’m looking forward to playing for Essen!

You are a very versatile player, but what is a strength in your game that doesn´t always get recognized right away?

A strength in my game that I feel is always recognized is my scoring, but what I feel isn’t recognized is the small things. I am a very great passer! And I will have a lot of assists with my new teammates in Essen

How excited are to be playing with top point guard Chris Alexander? You guys could be that scoring duo that will keep ro A teams off guard.

I don’t know Chris but I have been doing my research since I looked at our roster on the team website. And from the looks of things he looks like a great player! I love playing with other good players and hopefully we develop a chemistry that can help lead Essen deep into the playoffs!

You played your last two seasons of college ball at Ky Wesleyan (NCAA2). How did Todd Lee get you prepared best for a professional career?

Coach Lee helped me on the floor but more off the floor. He always told me how to be a man and a leader for my teammates even when things weren’t going my way. Coach Lee is one of the best coaches I ever had. I really learned a lot from coach Lee and Kentucky Wesleyan.

Who was the best player that you played against in the NCAA 2 that might be in the NBA or in Europe?

The best player I played against was actually one of my teammates at Kentucky Wesleyan. He was our point guard. Cardell McFarland. And he is so underrated. He is an explosive scoring point guard with great defense as we’ll. He now plays for Noerdlingen in Pro b. I know for sure that he will be in the Pro A or BBL next season.

How does a typical summer work out day look like for Anthony  Young?

The typical workout for me is push ups, ab work, get up shots, and then open gym against other pro players and Indiana Pacers player Lance Stephenson.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The latest movie I watched was my favorite TV Show on DVD of all time which is known as “Martin”. A comedy show

Thanks Anthony for the chat.

Myles Hesson is a 21 year old 195 cm forward from Birmingham, England that recently completed his first season in Germany in the PRO B for the Weissenhorn youngsters and  was promoted to Beko BBL team ratiopharm Ulm. Last season for  Weissenhorn Youngstars (Germany-ProB) he played  20 games: 19.7ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg, 1.5bpg, 2FGP: 54.4%, 3FGP: 27.4%, FT: 65.6%, in Mar.’13 moved to Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany-BBL): 9 games: 4.2ppg, 2.8rpg. He started his professional career in 2009-2010 for  Birmingham Aces (EBL2) averaging 13.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 2FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 33.3%. In 2010-2011, he played for the Essex Pirates Basketball Club (BBL): 11 games: 9.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 68.4%. Last season he played for Liverpool Mersey Tigers (BBL, starting five): 27 games: 15.1ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 61.5%. This past summer, he was a member of the British national team taking part in preparations for the 2012 Summer Olympics. He also took part at the British 3×3 Mixed and menTeam for World Championships in Greece  in 2012. He recently signed with the Giessen 46ers for the 2013-2014 season and was named to the 2013 british national team. He spoke to German Hoops during the last season as he played for ratiopharm Ulm.

What was it like watching from the bench being a member of ratiopharm Ulm in your first game?

It was great. I understand that I wont play much, but just being involved with the team is a good thing.

What did you learn from the style of the Beko BBL?

It is a lot quicker and faster than the PRO B. The players are also more efficient and you can´t afford errors.

On what things did you have to watch out for on the court concerning your game?

I had to limit my mistakes, rebound, run the floor and show confidence with my shot.

You told me in December 2012 that is was your dream to play in the Beko BBL one day. Have you been surprised by how quick all has gone for you?

I was surprised how fast it went. I didn´t expect it this season, but I had been working hard and people told me that I deserved it.

How did you learn of the promotion to ratiopharm Ulm?

My coach Tim Lewis told me that we had a meeting with Ulm and we went and I was so happy when I was signed.

There aren´t many players that make the jump from PRO B to the Beko BBL. Was the PRO B too easy for you?

No it wasn´t too easy for me. The PRO B is still a good level. I always aspired to play in a higher level and Ulm took notice of that.

What do you remember from your 34 points 19 rebound explosion against Dresden?

I remember it being a great game as we only had seven players and two were NBBL players. I remember my teammates Maxim Shtein and Brian Butler finding me for open shots.

You are athletic and like to dunk. What is a hidden strength in your game?

My three point shooting. I haven´t had a good percentage this season, but I continue to work hard at improving my shot.

Who was the best player that you played against in the PRO B this season?

Josh Parker of the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. He could go off at any time.

Could he make the jump to the Beko BBL?

Yes I think that he could. He has a lot of potential. I wish the best for him and I hear he is a good guy as well.

You once said that you like how Allan Ray has no fear on the court. What else would you like to have from his game?

He is one of the best players in the league and I would like to have his one on one skills.

What was your impression of Thorsten Leibenath and how did he helped you so far?

I had trained with him a few times this season so I knew how he is. He was really cool and welcomed me and helped me get a fix on the plays.

Who would win a wrestling match John Bryant or Omar Samhan?

I am not sure, but I would pay to watch it. I would put my money on John Bryant.

Lance Jeter was named Capri Sonne man of March. Can you drink as much as him?

I haven´t seen him drink it, but I heard that he had become the Capri Sonne March man.

You come from England. What was your childhood like?

I had a normal childhood like any other kid. I started to play soccer and then started with basketball at age 14.

Who were your basketball idols?

I liked Dwayne Wade. I am a huge Miami heat fan and am happy that they got Lebron James.

Why is Vince Carter your dunk hero?

When I started to watch NBA, he was in his prime and he was always in the top 10 dunks the way Blake Griffin is today.

Tim Lewis was already your coach with Essex. How did he help you get better?

He really helped me a lot and already saw my potential as I was younger. He helped me get to Germany and always pushes me too work hard.

Last season Kris Douse was your teammate. Who won a one on one in practice?

We never really played even though we are close in height. He is very athletic as well, but I would say that I would win.

You played at the 3 X3 world championships in Greece in 2012. What kind of experience was that for you?

That was a great experience. There were some very good players there from countries like Greece and Israel and the games were always packed.

How excited are you to see Eric Boateng again after playing with him with the British national team?

He is a cool guy and a friend of mine. I am looking forward to seeing him and I am happy tat he is doing so well.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row without missing?

30

What was your most crazy shot that you made in a game?

I made a three quarters shot last season in England from my own free throw line.

James Bond or Mr Bean?

I like Mr Bean. He makes me laugh. I liked James Bond more as Pierce Brosnan. I don´t like the new one so much.

Have you ever met another myles/miles in your life besides me?

There was another miles at my school.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

James Bond Skyfall.

Thanks Myles for the chat.

Andrej Mangold is a 26 year old 190cm point that recently finished his second season in the Beko BBL with the Telekom Baskets Bonn where he played 31 games: 3.1ppg, 1.9rpg; EuroChallenge: 14 games: 4.6ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.0apg. He started his basketball career in 2004 with TK Hannover (Regionalliga. He then played for ) Oldenburger TB (Regionalliga) from 2005-2007. From 2007-2008, he played for Muenchen Basket (ProB): 29 games: 8.8ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.7apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 58.1%. In 2008-2009, he played for 2008-2009: FC Bayern Muenchen (ProA), left in Oct.’08, in Nov.’08 moved to Telemotive Muenchen (ProB, starting five): 22 games: 8.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 64.2%. In 2009-2010, he played for UBC Hannover Tigers (ProA, starting five): 25 games: 8.5ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 69.1%. In 2010-2011 he played for the  Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck (1.Bundesliga): 26 games: 0.5ppg; also a license to play for SC Rasta Vechta (ProB): 2 games: 1.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg. In 2011-2012 he came to the Telekom Baskets Bonn (1.Bundesliga): EuroChallenge: 12 games: 1.8ppg; German League: 37 games: 3.1ppg, 1.3rpg). He spoke to German Hoops about basketball during the regulat season 2012-2013

Michael Koch was since 2005 in Bonn and some say he was burned out, but he kept doing great work which speaks for him. How did he keep this consistency?

We have been up and down this season, but one of the reasons why I came to Bonn was because of Mike Koch. He has good coaching qualities and I had only heard good things about him. And his record speaks for itself in that the team has only missed the playoffs one time since his arrival.

Jamel Mclean stepped up right away for Patrick Ewing junior. What are the biggest differences between both players?

Both are excellent players, but the biggest difference is that Mclean is more of an inside presence and not so from the perimeter the way Ewing is. Mclean is more of a zone player.

Kyle Weems is my unsung hero this season. What is his greatest asset on the court?

He has a very good shot and has really helped us in scoring. His biggest asset is just how well he has played this season despite being only a rookie.

Why do you think were some fans so critical of Mike Koch?

When you win then all is great, but once you start losing, the questions start to come to why. I think that this type of situation is everywhere when you lose.

You played  your second season in Bonn. Are you happy with your playing time?

I am happy with my playing time and that I am a consistent fixture in the rotation of Mike Koch. However the most important thing is that we are successful as a team.

How great is it having a teacher like Jared Jordan?

It is great having him as a teacher. I don´t think that there is a better point guard in the Beko BBL now. I can learn so much from him especially the small things. I always try to talk to him and pick up little things.

What is the most important thing that you have learned from him?

His best trait is that he stands for unselfishness. A great thing is that he first tries to find his teammates, but when an opponent takes his assist away and forces him to score than he is able to do it on a consistent rate. He always makes the right decisions and I don´t think that there has been a team that has totally taken him out of the game

What is a strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

My defense doesn´t get noticed right away. My role is to defend the opponents best player that is on the court. We have so many scorers on the team that I am content of getting my 2-3 shots per game and when I do get them try to hit them at a consistent rate.

On what things do you still need to work on?

I can improve on the whole package like having a more stable shot or my ball handling.

What is your nicest memory with ex NBA player Tony Gaffney?

We are still good friends now and have contact. My nicest memory with Tony was beating an unbeaten Bamberg team at home for 2 years in game one of the playoffs with a buzzer beater. I don´t remember having a more emotional time on the court

How often did you give him ally-op passes?

Not many, because it was usually Jared Jordan, but I remember mostly a defensive rebound getting got and then the outlet pass going to Jordan and he making a half court ally op pass to Gaffney. But I do remember one time that I got the rebound looked for Jordan, but he was covered, so I gave Gaffney a rocket ally-op pass for the dunk

When will we see a Jordan to Mangold ally-op?

I doubt there will come one since I am not so athletic, but moreover a back door pass from him for the lay up.

What is the most interesting story that Patrick Ewing told in the locker room?

He played for some years in the D-league and just explained how tough it is playing there, because it is a showcase league where everyone plays for their stats in hoping to reach the NBA. There are very good 1-1 players in the D league.

What was your wake up call to the Beko BBL in Artland?

It took a while for my wake up call to come in the playoffs against Bamberg where Johannes Strasser got injured.

What was the most amazing thing that Tyrese Rice did on the court?

He is an excellent one on one player. He is very important for FC Bayern Munich now, but he was even more dominant when he played for Artland. He really showed how important he was in that five game series against Bamberg where he really showed his worth.

How did Florian Hartenstein get you to laugh?

I don´t really know, but Flo is a cool guy.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row?

50

What was your most crazy shot that you made so far in your career?

I made a three quarter shot similar to the Jan Jagla shot in Wurzburg

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Django

Thanks Andrej for the chat,.

Joe Trapani is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Madison, Connecticut thatrecently finished his first season for Beko BBL team Medi Bayreuth  playing 32 games: 10.6ppg, 5.9rpg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 18.9%, FT: 75.0%BBC Bayreuth. He started his NCAA career at Vermont (NCAA) in 2006 and played 26 games: 11.4ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 44.0%, 3Pts: 40.0%, FT: 68.4%. He then completed his NCAA career at Boston College playing there form 2008-2011. In his senior year he played 34 games: 14.8ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 70.7%. In 2011, he turned professional playing at the e Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft): 3 games: 14.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.7apg, 1.0spg. He then came to Europe to play for  Novipiu Casale Monferrato (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 3 games: 5.3ppg, 1.7rpg, left in Oct.’11, in Nov.’11 try-out at Scavolini Siviglia Pesaro (Italy-SerieA, starting five), then moved to MarcoPoloShop.it Forli (Italy-Lega2): 12 games: 9.4ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 21.7%, FT: 78.0%; in Mar.’12 signed at Maine Red Claws (D-League): 6 games: 3.2ppg, 3.7rpg. He spoke to German Hoops during the last season.

You played your first season for BBC Bayreuth. How did you like it?

I liked it very much. Bayreuth is small and I liked the hometown feeling and reminded me of home. The fans were great and I had  a great group of guys as teammates.

Have you ever played before more emotional fans than in Bayreuth?

No I don´t think that I have. The fans support us great and go to road games. I think the atmosphere is one of the best in the league. The fans were passionate in Italy, but not as positive as in Germany.

What was your nicest memory of the big win at home against Alba Berlin?

There was one play where my teammate Peter Zeis was already in the air going for the shot, but then decided to feed me an ally op pass.

You are a very versatile player. What is your biggest strength on the court?

I think my energy and motor. I play hard on offense and defense on every possession.

Why is your athletic ability on the fast break not as noticed?

I think that this season people are noticing. I have been able to showcase it more with BBC Bayreuth. I have dunked more and had the opportunity to get out on the fast break more.

How much fun is it playing with the BBC Bayreuth glue guy Beckham Wyrick?

Becks is great. He brings so much experience and wisdom to the court. He always goes hard and is a great defender. He has that killer instinct and is always capable of knocking down the big shot. His wisdom on and off the court is great.

How does Gary Mcghee make you laugh?

He doesn´t really make me laugh, but he has a couple of funny one liners.

What is the most important thing that you have learned from BBC Bayreuth head coach Marco Van Den Berg?

Just always having a positive attitude. I remember during our six game losing streak, no one felt we could ever win again, but coach kept that positive attitude and we then beat Alba Berlin. He is able to keep us upbeat in good and bad moments.

You are from Madison, Connecticut. What was your childhood like?

I had a nice childhood. I started to play basketball at age four.

Did you like more Boston or New York teams?

I liked neither. I was a fan of the San Francisco 49ers, Orlando Magic and North Carolina Tar Heels.

Who were your NBA idols?

Penny Hardaway and Tracy Mcgrady.

Was it difficult leaving Vermont(NCAA) after one season and going to Boston College and leaving the snow?

No it wasn´t. I was far from home and Boston was closer so that my family could watch me play more. There was also more to do in Boston and it was always my dream to play in the ACC.

You played three years for Boston College. Why couldn´t Boston College not make more noise in the NCAA tournament?

Well we had some bad luck. One year, we met USC that had a lot of NBA talent. We also had a coaching change that mixed things up at the time. We never got that chemistry and stability to make a run in the NCAA tournament.

Your ex teammate Corey Raji had a great career at Boston College, but has played in Luxemburg and now is toiling in the French third league. How surprised are you about where he has landed as a professional? Isn´t he better than where he is playing?

I think he is and I have told him that. He is a big talent and was one of the best players in the ACC my last two seasons. I really am surprised that he hasn´t been able to find better jobs in Europe.

How did your ex Boston College coach Steven Donahue prepare you for a professional basketball career?

He is an incredible coach. Not only in the tactical sense, but he has the ability to inspire his players and get the best out of each player. He always knew how to manage the ego´s on the team. I owe him a lot and always visit him when I am back in Boston. We maintain a good relationship.

Last season, you played for three Italian teams. How were you able to learn from this experience?

It was tough going to Italy coming from college where everything was comfortable and was given to you. In Italy there was a new city and culture and a lot of turmoil always moving. It was a tough transition, but I think my character grew as a result and I am proud of myself that I never gave up and it shows as I am having a good season in Bayreuth.

What was your wake up call to the D-league?

I went totally unprepared. I had been sitting around in Italy for a month and then got the job from the Maine Red Claws. I went home for a few days before to try to get into shape, but it didn´t really help. I went to Texas for my first game as we played eventual D-league champion Austin Torros where there were many ex NBA players on the floor. I felt very overwhelmed, because I was unable to show my a game. It was a tough experience, but I got through it.

What were the most free throws that you have made in a row in practice without missing?

I would always take 100 shots after a work out. I once made 63 in a row and 97 out of a 100.

What was your most crazy shot in your career that went in?

In my junior year with Boston College, we played in Miami and with less than a second to play before half time, I came off a screen got the ball, made one dribble and took a fade away at the three point line at the buzzer that went it.

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

The list is long. Ty Lawson was the fastest guy I played against. He has lightening speed and could get up and down the floor in less than three seconds. Tyler Hansborough was the hardest working guy I ever played against and Jeff Teague was also tough to play against.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Ted.

Thanks Joe for the chat.

Keith Waleskowski is a 32 year old 204cm forward that recently announced his retirement. He played in Germany in his last season for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven playing 34 games averaging 6,7ppg and 3,9rpg while averaging 15,6 minutes per game. He played at Dayton from 2000-2004. In hiss enior year, he played 32 games: 13.2ppg, 9.7rpg, 1.9apg. He turned professional in 2004 playing for Farho Gijon (Spain-LEB1): 34 games: 14.7ppg, Reb-3(9.8rpg), 1.0spg, 2FGP: 56.1%, 3FGP: 35.8%. He would play four more years in Spain for teams like Polaris World Murcia ,  Etosa Alicante  and  Caja Rural Melilla. He then played in Italy from 2009-2012 for  Fileni Bpa Jesi  and for Tezenis Verona (Italy-Lega2) his last two years. He spoke to German Hoops about his career.

Keith thanks for taking time to talk to German Hoops. You recently decided to hang up your jersey. How tough was it making this decision?
Extremely tough. I really liked playing basketball and it was pretty cool to be able to do that for a living, but ultimately I didn’t want to be away from my wife and kids for such long periods of time anymore.
Besides having three kids and wanting to spend more time with the family, were there any other reasons for wanting to retire at age 32? You still seemed to be physically in good shape or was there some wear and tear on your body in your nine year playing career?
No, it was almost entirely a mental/emotional decision. Physically I feel as though I could play for another 10 years, but my kids are growing up now and I don’t want to miss anymore of that.
You played five seasons in Spain and three in Italy before coming to the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. How did you enjoy your only season in Germany?
It was cool to get to play in my “homeland.” It was a different experience from the other countries I played in, but it was still a good experience. The people were good, the competition was good, and it was the most professional league I have been a part of.
I think form your skill level that you could still have played a few more years as you were very efficient from the bench scoring in double figures 11 times. How happy were you with your season on the court?
I was ok with it. Like any player ever I wanted a bigger role, but I was comfortable coming off the bench. I gave it best I had with the opportunities that were presented to me, and I can say that I am happy with that while still wanting more.
It was the second season in a row where the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven missed the playoffs. Besides the Beko BBL being a very competitive league why wasn´t the team able to perform better? The team didn´t lack talent.
We were talented, but there were times where we weren’t smart. And many times it came down to guys playing more for themselves than for the team. If you look at the teams that were successful this year, there were talented players that played the right way and gave up individual statistics and personal accolades for the success of the team. There were many times where we had a hard time finding that balance.
I saw two games of the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven in October and November and two in March and I have to say the body language and team chemistry was like night and day. It really seemed like the team weren´t on the same page? How can you explain an early team chemistry dissolve like that as the season continues.
Pretty much the same as above. Players playing more for themselves and trying to get their own stats than playing for the team.
What was your most fondest game on the court your 16 points in a big win against Artland or your 14 points and win against the Brose Baskets Bamberg?
I was proud of both performances, especially since they were wins. But the game against Bamberg was special. It was a good way to wrap things up in our last home game, and a good way for us to say “thank you” to the fans for their support throughout all the ups and down of this season.
Who was the toughest player that you faced in the Beko BBL in your last season as a professional and why?
The easy answer is John Bryant. He is big, and he is tough, and he can do it inside and outside and is a big force on defense. He is an all around, fundamental, tough, efficient player.
You seemed to get along very well with Jacob Burtschi. Besides golfing together what was your most memorable experience with him on the off the court?
Haha, he was a good guy and easy to get along with. Us two and Scott Morrison used to go to hockey games and get pretty rowdy too.
To what professional golfer would you compare the golfing style and on course character of Jacob Burtschi?
Roy McAvoy. Confident, funny, and full of crap.
As a senior at Dayton you had Brian Gregory as head coach who was in his first season there as head coach. He was responsible for helping develop many players like current NBA player Brian Roberts. What was the most important attribute that you got from him that helped you become the professional player that you were?
He helped me develop my all around game, and got me to be more confident and take responsibility for everyone else on the court. I had to have everyone ready, and we all had to be responsible and accountable. We all pushed each other and raised each other level of play every day.
Who was the best player that you had to battle against in the NCAA that might be in the NBA now?
David West.
You played five seasons in Spain. In the 2006-2007 season you played for Farho Gijon (Spain-LEB) where you led the league in rebounding. Were you disappointed that you never got the chance to play in the ACB?
A little bit, yeah. Obviously that would have been a privilege and an honor, but I had many other opportunities and am extremely grateful and happy for those. I was able to make a living for myself and family, and enjoyed my time in Spain very much.
In 2005-2006, you won the Leb cup with Polaris World Murcia. It was the only title that you won in Spain. What made this team so special?
We were really, really good that year. Every last player on that roster could have been somewhere else in the league playing more minutes and averaging more points, but everyone came together and accomplished a major team goal. We actually won the playoffs also, and moved up to ACB, but I didn’t get a chance to play in the playoffs because I had injured my shoulder and needed surgery.
In the 2007-2008 season you played together with American Taylor Coppenrath for Etosa Alicante. You guys went at each other each day in practice. What do you remember most about him on the court and off?
Taylor is tough as nails. That kid is hard to move, and hard to play against. And then he comes down on offense and you can’t relax because he is going to beat you up down low or hit jumpers all day long. And on top of all of that, he was one of the nicest guys I have played with. He is humble, easy to get along with, and fun to be around

.
When you faced MBC this season and played against point guard Hoerdur Vilhjalmsson who posted 17 points and six assists in a win in Bremerhaven did you remember that he shortly was your teammate in pre season with Caja Rural Melilla in 2008. Was it hard to believe that a player from Iceland could be so good?
It doesn’t matter where a kid is from, once they are on the court we are all in the same place at that moment. He is really crafty and somehow finds a way to get the job done. It may not be the most conventional way, but he is effective.
What will you remember most from your five seasons in Spain? What team was your best experience?
There are parts from each of my stops in Spain I will remember forever. Great people, great food and drink, and solid basketball to boot.
You played for Fileni Bpa Jesi your first season in Italy together with Tommy Adams who played two seasons in Germany including Bremerhaven in 2007-2008. He once put up 40 points in a game in Germany. Where would you rate him alltime as best pure scoring teammate?
One of the best. TA could put the biscuit in the basket. You can’t leave him open, and you can’t think about letting him get going, or get mad because when he turns it up, he is finding a way to score.
Before coming to Bremerhaven you played two seasons for Tezenis Verona. There you played together with ex NBA player Mario West who played three seasons for the Atlanta Hawks and never averaged more than 5,2ppg at Georgia Tech, but reached the NBA. What made him such a good player at second glance?
You can’t stop him once he gets a head of steam in the open court. He is athletic and rebounds well, and doesn’t care if he is on or not on a given night, he is still going right at you.
You lived two seasons in Verona. What was your favorite place to chill at when you had an afternoon free?
Verona was beautiful. It was always nice to go to Piazza Erbe and people watch. There is an endless list of restaurants and cafes to hang out with, relax, and eat some incredible food.
When you look back at your nine year professional basketball career, what will you always want fans to remember you by?
I worked hard, and I played the game the right way. I wasn’t the most athletic player, but I worked on the little things, and did things that don’t always show up on the stat sheet but had to be done for the team to win.
What are your plans now. Do you have any ideas what you will do with your life after your playing days?
I guess I have to try and find a real job and start the daily grind. But I will definitely enjoy being home with the family every night.
How do you beat your brother Adam at fishing? Who is the better fisher?
I don’t. He is by far the better fisherman. But it is good to fish with him because he knows how to put us on the fish so that we have a good day. There is a lot more than just throwing out a line and hoping something is there, and he knows how to find them and where to look.
What was the last DVD movie that you saw?
Doc McStuffins or Sophia the First, or some other Disney deal. I don’t get much of a chance to watch movies for myself anymore. And now with baseball and the Stanley Cup playoffs on I have been watching that, and a little NBA playoffs since it is finally watchable, unlike the regular season which is garbage.

Thanks Keith for the chat.

Johnathan Jones is a 25 year old 183cm guard from Lansing, Michigan that played recently for the Fraport Skyliners and finished the season for HKK Siroki WWin (Bosnia-Division 1) where he reached the final losing in five games. He played  15 games: 8.5ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT-3(85.0%); Adriatic League: 11 games: 9.2ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT-1(52.0%), FT: 71.4%. He played at Oakland from 2006-2010 playing a total of 125 NCAA games. In hiss enior year, he played 35 games: 12.2ppg, 2.2rpg, 6.4apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 84.8%. He broke numerous school records like  Set school record in minutes played (4,846) and tied school record as the all-time winningest player over four-year career, 85 wins . Ranks third all-time in school history in steals (196) and 11th in league history . Stands 10th all-time in OU history in points (1,674) and 18th on the league all-time scoring list . His career .816 free throw percentage ranks 10th in league history and T4 in school history . First OU player to surpass 1,300 points and 800 assists. In 2010-2011, he started his professional basketball career with  MBK Rieker Komarno (Slovakia-Extraliga) and played there for two seasons. Last season he played 42 games: 16.3ppg, 3.7rpg, Assists-4(5.3apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 80.2%. He was Slovakian League Finalist -12, Slovakian League Regular Season Champion -12, and Slovakian Cup Finalist -12. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball

You played in Bosnia last season. How much did you miss Frankfurt?

I missed it a lot. Bosnia is a different place and a lot smaller. Frankfurt was a lot bigger.

You didn´t play the last games with Frankfurt. How difficult was it mentally for you?

It was a very difficult phase, but one has to remember that it is a business aspect. My teammates like Zach Peacock, Ted Scott, Larry Wright and Tez helped me keeping me positive and just take it day to day and keep working hard.

Did you know that your days were numbered in Frankfurt?

I had a feeling as soon as I had missed the whole first half in Tuebingen. I kept practicing hard and talked with my agent about my options.

What do you think was the main reason for leaving the Fraport Skyliners?

At the end of the day it is always about winning. Frankfurt was always expected to win and it wasn´t happening so they made a change.

Your best game was a 14 point eight assist performance in Artland. Why weren´t you more consistent on the floor?

In Artland, Devin Gibson was hurt so I was the only point guard.When Gibson came back, we split the playing time and we never found our rhythm. I think that this messed up both of our games. We had a long talk and kept working hard.

Sometimes you seemed a bit too passive and non aggressive. Was the Beko BBL too high a level for you?

I don´t think that the Beko BBL was too hard for me, but I just never figured out my role. We had many great scorers on the team and I never found my rhythm.

My favorite play was your ally-op to Tez against Braunschweig. What was your favorite play?

I thought that that was one of the best plays as well. This was a great moment for me. Tez and I had a great chemistry. He was a great mentor for me and I learned a lot from him.

You averaged 25 minutes in the last five games. Not really a reason for Muli Katzurin to lose confidence in you?

I don’t know, but Muli katzurin is a great coach who has won titles. He has a different way to coach and it was just tough to adjust to his style.

Were you disappointed as Dawn Robinson came?

The Skyliners wanted more of an experienced player and he  helped them.

What could you learn from Tez on defense?

He is the best defender that I ever went against. I learned much from him and I really liked his anticipation, toughness and Quickness.

What will you remember the most from Frankfurt?

Spending my time with a group of great guys. They had a top notch coaching staff and it was fun hanging out with the guys.

Who was the best player that you played against?

Davin White of Phoenix Hagen. He is a good point guard.

How did Ted Scott get you to laugh best?

Ted has a different type of personality. He was always upbeat and didn´t let anything frustrate him on the court.

You played your first season in Bosnia. Was it a big adjustment coming from Frankfurt?

It was such a big adjustment because it reminded me a lot of my time in Slovakia.

You played in the Adriatic league. How high was the level?

It was a tough league as we play teams from Serbia, Croatia and Macedonia. The teams play Euroleague, Eurocup and Eurochallenge.

What was your role in the team?

I was the go to guy and there was more pressure, but I thrive on it.

You recently beat Euroleague team Partizan Belgrad. Was that the biggest win for you as a professional?

Yes that was the biggest win with Ulm with Frankfurt.

Do you have a Mcdonalds or Burker King in Bosnia or have you gotten used to a Bosnian food?

We don´t have any of that. I really like eating gyros.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Taken 2

Thanks J.J for the chat.