Stephen Arigbabu is an ex German national player that had  a long playing career playing for 12 teams and retired in 2010 to turn to coaching. He started his basketball career in 1992 for Braunschweig. He then played for SSV Ulm fort wo seasons until 1997. He then got further basketball experience with Alba Berlin rom 1997-1999. He then played three years in Greece before returning back to Germany to play in Cologne and in Weissenfels winning the 2004 Fiba Cup with MBC. In his last six years of professional basketball, he played in Italy for Euro Roseto (Italy-SerieA and TDShop.it Livorno (Italy-SerieA) and also some years in Greece with ; Olimpia GE Larisa (Greece-A1 and Marousi BC (Greece-A1). He won two Beko BBL titles with Alba Berlin, a Bronze at the 2002 world championships in Indianapolis a silver at the 2005 European championships in Belgrade. In 2010, he became  a head coach for the BSV Sixers whom he led into the Pro B and a playoff position. Currently the German is an assistant coach for the German U-18 national team. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.
Hi Stephen, thanks for taking some time to talk to German Hoops. You have been retired as a player since 2010 and quite quickly continued your basketball career in the coaching ranks. Did it take some time to get fully used to not playing anymore? What do you miss most from your playing days?

To be honest I am not missing playing basketball at all. After almost 20 years professional basketball I am really enjoying not to have to sprint up and down the court anymore:-) . What I am missing though is the good teammates that I had through all the years. Fortunately I am still in contact with some of them.

You had quick success in the coaching ranks with the BSW Sixers leading them from the Regionaliga into the Pro B in your first season. You then reached the playoffs, but left the team in December 2012. All in all what kind of an expereince was your first coaching gig in Germany and what were you able to learn from it?

I am thankful that I was able to get the job with BSW. I always knew that I am able to teach basketball. Coaching is something totally different. It was a great experience coaching BSW as I was feeling how I improved from week to week and month to month. I know that I have lots of knowledge as a player and now my job is to give this experience to the players that I coach.

You were recently named assistant coach for the German U-18 team on May 3rd. You had coached teams in the Regionaliga and Pro B before getting this job. How challenging has it been coaching young German players in comparison to what you had done with the BSW Sixers?

Its a great challenge for me. It is totally different then working in ProB as with the U18 team, I am working with players that have their mind set to become basketball pros. With BSW only the Americans were playing as pros. My mind is 24 hours on basketball and I am very happy to deal with players and officials that are thinking the same way.

The U-18 European championships start this week in Macedonia. Germany is in a group with Holland, Estonia, Austria and Georgia. How do you see the chances of Germany in this tournament?
Of course our goal is to move up in the A division again. To reach this goal we have to finish in top 3. Our games in preparation were very difficult for us as we were only able to win 1 out of 9 games. Its worth to mention that all these games were against top European teams like Spain, France and Greece for example. At the european championship in macedonia it is very important that we use our strength. If we play up to our potential I think we have a good chance of reaching our goals.

You have been working together with head coach Kay Bluemel for more than two months. How good is your working relationship and what have you been able to learn from him on and off the court?
First of all I am very thankful to learn and work for a such an experienced coach like Bluemel. .He is working for many years in the federation and has seen it all. As I was playing many years with the German national team, our philosophy of basketball is the same. It was pretty easy for me to understand what kind of basketball he likes to play. For all the good words I have to say for him as a coach I also have to mention that he is a great person as well. My feeling is that all the players in the team are enjoying to play for him and the chemistry in the team is very good

What is your biggest strength as a head coach and what is a hidden strength in your coaching that isn´t always seen right away?

That is definitely a question that the players I am working with could answer much better but I think that my work ethic is the same that I had when I used to play. As a  Coach I want everything 100 percent  right. Of course this is sometimes annoying some players but this is the way I have learned basketball and that will be the way I will coach.

Is there at times pressure on an ex player like yourself being a head coach? Not all coaches are ex players, but ex players have that certain touch as ex players that they take behind the bench.

The only pressure that I had so far is that my personal expectations are very high. Of course I know that a good player isnt a good coach automatically but I think there are many things, as discipline for example, that I have learned as a player that I can take into my coaching career.

As an ex center you must take extra time to help young centers like Johannes Joos or Daniel Mayr. How much potential do these young Germans have?

First of all I have to say that many European countries would be happy if they would have players as tall as we have them on the team. When I was the first time with the under 18 team in training camp, we had like 6 guys almost taller than me!! Of course I am trying to give the big guys the extra hint at times. Besides the 2 big guys that you have mentioned there are many other good prospects on our roster for the European championship like Sengfelder and Rohwer for example. But as we all know talent isnt enough, the players need to work hard. Thats also something I am trying to tell and teach them. Without hard work there wont be any results or success.

One player that I am curiously observing from a far is Jan Wimberg. How is his development coming and just how unending is his potential?
Of course he has high potential and we expect a lot from him. I know him from my games in ProB against Oldenburg. For myself I can say that I need him to dominate more as he has the skills to do so. We cant forget that he is born  in 1996 but playing with guys born 95.At times he is just a “teammate” on the court but not the guy that is leading the group. He is in a good program (Oldenburg) with good coaches  and he will develop. If he continues to work hard, he has a good chance to become a serious player.

What are your plans for after the summer? You surely must want to get back to coaching a club? Could you see yourself coaching in the Pro A or Beko BBL in the next two seasons?

Of course I want to get back coaching in ProA or BBL. There were talks with some teams but I didnt find an agreement with any club. At this point I am focused on the U18 national team but with one eye of course I am looking for a “daily job”. Hopefully a situation will come soon so I can get back to work. Being without a team after such a long time is a difficult situation but there is many things that I have planned for example traveling to Slovenia for the mens European championship to watch some games.

What coach do you respect most in the German leagues?

For sure Svetislav Pesic is one of my favourite coaches as I have worked with him for 3 years with club teams plus in the national team. He is one of the hardest working guys in Europe. Playing for him wasnt easy always but know being a coach myself, I understand more and more what he was trying to teach us back in the days. I am very happy that I had the opportunity to meet Coach Pesic.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Last DVD I was watching was an old basketball DVD. Jeff van Gundy “Defending the Pick and Roll”

Thanks Stephen for the chat.

Tyler Kepkay is a 26 year old 183cm guard from Vancouver, Canada that has been a professional basketball player since 2009. He played at  College of E. Utah (JUCO) from 2005-2007 and then transfered to  Utah (NCAA) where he played from 2007-2009. In his senior year he played 34 games: 10.3ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 40.9%, 3Pts: 34.6%, FT: 84.5%. In 2009-2010 as a rookie he played for the  ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (Germany-ProA, starting five): 26 games: Score-1(21.5ppg), 4.7rpg, 4.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT-2(89.8%). In 2010-2011 he played for  New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig (Germany-1.Bundesliga), try-outs, in Oct.’10 moved to LTi Giessen 46ers (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 15 games: 3.5ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.0apg; in Feb.’11 signed at Science City Jena (Germany-ProA, starting five): 8 games: 13.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 90.0%. In 2011-2012, he played for  Science City Jena (Germany-ProA, starting five): 31 games: 15.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 85.2%. Lasts eason he was with the Artland Dragons in pre season. The American spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Tyler thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?
Thanks for having me, I am currently living in Hong Kong. Summer has been very good so far.

> You started the 2012-2103 season with the Artland Dragons, but only for the pre season.  How difficult a situation was it not being able to continue with the Artland Dragons?
Well I went to Artland to help with training camp because they had an injury at the point guard position. The plan was that my  agent at the time and Artland were supposed to have found a good level club like Artland for me to join once training camp was over. Unfortunately that never happened. I did think I was going to stay with Artland as I fit in very well with the guys and proved I could help the team.

I was a bit surprised as were you as well that you didn´t catch on to a team especially in Germany after your stay with Artland. You were the Pro A scoring leader in 2009-2010 with Essen and had  a good season with Science City Jena. Is there any way you can explain that?
After Artland not working out as planned, I went home and handled some personal things.  While I was home I did have a couple offers but I felt I was being under valued and some of them were to countries I didn’t want to go play in. I also felt that I needed time away from the game to get a new perspective on things and life.

What did you do in the last season and how did you stay fit?

I moved to Hong Kong and started a company/business. I always train like a professional, no matter what that will never change, so still lots of basketball and off court training.

You have had some experience in the German Beko BBL with Braunschweig, Giessen and Artland. What had been your best experience and what was the most important thing you have learned in the Beko BBL?

I had many good experiences so it’s hard to pick just one.  I would say the relationships I built with people were the best experiences. The most important thing I learned is in basketball there are a lot of things that happen off the court that you can’t control as a player and you just have to accept that.

When one looks at your stats one can see that you are a scorer, but seem to be able to do other things well also. What is a strength in your game that doesn´t always get noticed right away?
Definitely my ability to create for other people. When I am put in a situation to be a facilitator I can take on that role well, but so far my main role on the teams I have been on is to score.  Another strength is my ability to guard one on one.

You have had very strong seasons in Germany in the Pro A, but haven´t really had a chance in the Beko BBL except with the Giessen 46ers. How confident are you that you can play at the Beko BBL level?

I am very confident. I have played against Europe’s best many times internationally during my 3 years with the Canadian Mens Sr. Team. I more than held my own against many Euroleague level point guards, so I am confident I can play in the BBL.

As a rookie you had a very strong season with the ETB Wohnbau Baskets. You didn´t seem to need any getting adjusted to, but what memories do you have from ex German national player Gerrit Terdenge?

It was an easy transition, mainly because my coach Igor Krizanovic really believed in me. My memories from Gerrit were that he was a leader and always trying to help everyone. He was always encouraging me to play my game. He was a really good person.

When you look back at you short stay with the Giessen 46ers, were there just too many other strong guards like Ryan Brooks and Chase Griffin?
I came to Giessen late to replace Chase when he got hurt. It wasn’t a serious injury and it was only going to be 4-6 weeks. During that time I played more the two position.  When he came back, they extended me so I thought I would get a chance more at the point guard position because there was only one other real point guard. In practice I started playing point guard a lot more when Chase came back and everyone knew I was the best point guard we had but I never got a chance to really play it.  It was a frustrating situation.

With Science City Jena, you played together with highly talented German Johannes Voigtmann. He made  a big step in the Beko BBL with Frankfurt. How much potential does he have?
He has a lot of potential because of his size and skill level. He can do so many different things. I wish him all the best.

If you could describe in a few sentences why you could help any team now, then how would you describe your play?

I can help a team immediately  because I can create and make people better. I would describe my play as simple and efficient.

How does a normal Tyler Kepkay work out day look like in the summers?

Every day it’s basketball skill work and then either weights or off court speed and agility work.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?
Top Gun

Thanks Tyler for the chat.

Dominque Jones is a 175cm guard from Harlem that ha sone season of professional ball under his belt. He played at Hudson Valley Hype (EBA) then moved to BG Illertal/Weissenhorn (Germany-ProB) playing  10 games: 15.7ppg, 3.5rpg, 4.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 43.3%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 73.5%. He started his basketball career at  Fashion Institute of Technology (NJCAA3) and finished at Ft.Hays St. (NCAA2). He spoke to Eurobasket about basketball.

Thanks for talking to German Hoops. Dominque where are you now and how has your summer been going?

I am currently back home in Harlem, New York. My summer has been going good so far just have been working on my craft and hooping in the New York summer leagues.

After a very good season with Weissenhorn, you sat out last season. What were the main reason for not playing?

My main reason for sitting out last season not playing is the worst month of my life! I had sustained two injuries within the month of august 2012. The first injury I was hooping in a summer pro am out here in New York and got elbowed in my face which caused two of my teeth to come one pushed into my gums and the other into my bottom lip, so the trauma and dental work I needed was immense. Two weeks later I ended up breaking my foot coming from the dentist tripping over a distorted grate which sidelined me until January. The good thing is I did not need surgery and I healed on my own.  Talk about bad luck and bad timing!! My first time being injured in my life. But I am 110% better now. It was a minor setback for a strong comeback! With the grace of god!

Has the job market been getting tougher the last years? Was there no option to have played for a minor league club in the States?

Well I would say so even though i’ve only been out of college for 2 years its all about who you know and which agent you sign to and which contacts they have in the overseas market depending on that it can be either really difficult or really easy. Also if they can convince a team to believe in you and the work you have already put in and the work your willing to put in to provide the best service available. I live in Harlem  the city there aren’t many minor teams around and not much of a market for it  when the Knicks play 20 min from you lol. But I actually played 3 games for a semi pro team in the EBA called PrimeTime we went 3-0 but team disbanded for whatever reason but was definitely fun while it lasted.especially after being sidelined  for a few months.

How did you spend the last season basketball wise? How did you stay in shape mentally and physically?

Well after I was cleared to play and run again I got right to it. Running the track in 20 degree weather and linking with different trainers everyday I was in the gym for hours two and three a day workouts whenever a gym was open I was first and last one in there. You never know how lucky you are to receive another chance to do something you truly  love are dedicated to until it was taking away from me for the 1st time. I also attained a strength and condition coach as well as working with different basketball trainers to get a full and diverse workout to help elevate my game to new heights. My hunger for the game has increased times 20

What are your memories of your stay with Weissenhorn besides your strong stats?

In Weissenhorn it was great! I loved everything about it had great teammates,ownership, managers and the fans were amazing a few always contact me via Facebook and ask me to come back so it was a very humbling experience. Had a chance to workout with the Ratiopharm/Ulm BBL team and they were also great guys and we had some intense workouts. I had the chance to attend a lot of the home games for Ratiopharm and learn for what im working for and where I need to be. So it was a great experience in Weissenhorn and a great learning experience for me.

You weren´t so long in Germany, but if you had the chance would you like to play in Germany again?

Germany was definitely a great place and was good to me and wouldn’t mind going back at all. But if i’m able to attain a job anywhere else wouldn’t oppose to that either.

What was your nicest memory at Weissenhorn with American Mike Mercer? He had some very good years at Georgia and last played in the minor leagues in Australia. Are you surprised that his career didn´t take more of a bang?

Me and Mike had so many good moments out there together were should i begin lol. Me and Mike had a good bond on and off the court I can say we respected each others games and enjoyed playing with one another. Also a lot of great battles in practice pushing one another to get better everyday. Yes I am very surprised 6’4 combo guard with  athleticism  out this world with a work ethic to go with it. Like i said its a lot about who you know. Iut its far from over and im sure people will take notice sooner than later I hope.

If you could describe your play in a few sentences how would you sell yourself best to a team now?

Your getting a total package. I can score, I can shoot , get my teammates involved, defend, rebound, Im a leader on and off the floor and Im a great well rounded person. I am willing to do whatever it takes to take a team and myself to the next level. My work ethic is superb. My heart and passion for this game is colossal!!! People often look at the height and what school you went to to determine whether you can get the job done. Measure my heart and my talent when I step on that court and ill show and prove!

How does a normal work out day in the summer look like for Dominque Jones?

4 times a week  I meet with strength and conditioning and we get it in legs, arms, abs , parachute runs, agility sprints he’s insane lol . Several times out the week I meet with different basketball trainers and I have individual workouts. Working on shot, ball handling , game situations moves and scenarios. Different days different workouts all helping me to become better than I was yesterday. I also hoop in summer New York street ball tournaments  where other overseas, NBA, college players bring there talents to compete.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Last dvd I watched ‘above the rim’ so ironic a young Harlem basketball high school standout had a goal to attain a scholarship to Georgetown and when all chips were against him with his family, street life situations and school he overcame that adversity and was successful in acquire that scholarship!

Thanks for the chat Dominque.

Michael Fakuade is a 24 year old 201cm forward from Chicago, Illinois that also has the NIgerian citzenship. He just completed his rookie season for UBC Hannover playing 15 games: 15.2ppg, Reb-5(10.6rpg), 1.1apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-1(2.8bpg), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 67.6%. he started his basketball career in 2007 for  N.Illinois (NCAA) where he played until 2010 playing 54 NCAA games. He then changed to play for  Ill.-Springfield (NCAA2). He played a total of 45 NCAA 2 games and as a senior played  24 games: 14.5ppg, RebNCAA2-6(11.0rpg), BlocksNCAA2-2(3.5bpg), FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 3-6, FT: 56.7%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Michael, thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how have you been spending your summer?
I am currently just working out Monday – Friday at the University of Chicago preparing for the upcoming season, as well as enjoying my summer.
Last season you were a rookie for USC Hannover. The club finished at 9-13. How disappointed were you with the record of the team and what were the main reasons why the club missed the playoffs?
I was very disappointed in our season because I really felt that we had good enough team to do a lot better then we did. I felt that we started off the season too slow and didn’t really figure out how to win close games until late in the season.
You had a very strong rookie season averaging 15.2ppg, Reb-5(10.6rpg), 1.1apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-1(2.8bpg), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 67.6%. You also had six double doubles. Even after a strong season like that what area of your game weren´t you too happy about that you could improve?
I honestly didn’t feel like I had good year. I felt that I should have done more to help my team win and to get into the playoffs. As far as improving, every aspect of my game needs to improve. There is not one spot in my game I cant improve on.
You had Kevin Love type stats against Dorsten with 21 points and 20 rebounds. Was this your season highlight and what do you remember most about this game?
Yes, I do believe this was one of my better games in the season. To be honest the game was kind of a blur. I did not really notice that I was even close to those numbers. After the game my teammates where telling that I had 20 points and 20 rebounds. I wasn’t really focused on achieving those stats, I was just happy we won the game and that helped put us in a better position to make the playoffs.
You shot 40% from outside picking your spots when to shoot which shows that you are a versatile big man, but what is strength in your game that doesn´t always get recognized right away?
I just try to take whatever shot the defense gives me, whether it may be a lay up or an open three. Some parts of my game that does not get recognized is my versatility. Not just on the offense end but on the defense end as well. I have the ability to guard on the perimeter as well as inside.
How important was it transferring from Northern Illinois to the university of Illinois at Springfield? How important was head coach Ben Wierzba for getting you set for a professional basketball career?
Transferring from Northern Illinois to Illinois Springfield gave me a better opportunity to show my game. Springfield helped me become more of a leader and become more vocal. It wasn’t just Coach Wierzba that helped me get ready for my professional basketball career, but the experience of adjusting to a new coach and new school helped me out even more.
You are a very strong rebounder at 201cm. What is your strength to dominating the boards? Is it all just anticipation?
Anticipation does play a factor, but I truly believe rebounding is all effort and energy. I just try to out work my opponent and have more energy than them.
Steven Bennett of the Spot Up Medien Baskets made the jump from Pro B to Pro A and will playing for the Giessen 46ers. How confident are you that you can make the jump to the next level?
I am pretty confident that I can make the jump to the pro A, I feel if I am given the opportunity I will be productive at any level.
If you could sell yourself in a few sentences, how would you make yourself as a player interesting for a Pro A basketball team?

I believe that I can bring a lot of different things to a team. I believe my versatility and my work effort would allow me to take on any role that the team needs.
In the 76-71 loss to Braunschweig you witnessed Dennis Schroeder pour in 31 points. Did the German look like a NBA first round draft pick? Do you think he could have a long NBA career?
Dennis is a very good player and he had a great game against us. I believe that Dennis will be just fine in the NBA if he continues to work hard. I wish him the best of luck.
How proud were you off your teammate Ashanti Cook having such a strong season after not having played professional ball for three years Training basketball players in Montenegro, Slovenia, Croatia and playing semi pro basketball. Is he a good example of never giving up and fighting for your basketball dreams?
Ashanti is a very good player and a hard worker. I’m glad he decided to come back and continue his career. His efforts inspired me to stay motivated and never give up on the dream basketball if you really love it.
How does a typical work out day look like for you in Chicago during the summer?
I usually start my workout at 8am at the University of Illinois Chicago with my trainer Ernie Ford. Who takes me through some pretty gruesome workouts that consist of conditioning, ball handling and weights. So it changes day to day.
Playing any pick up games with Josh Parker and Michael juice Thompson?
I see Josh Parker frequently at the University of Illinois Chicago, but haven’t got a chance to play in any games. As far as Michael Thompson I just finish playing against him in a summer league game. It always fun to play against those guys when I get a chance.
What was the last DVD movie that you saw?
Battle of Los Angeles

Thanks Michael for the chat.

Johnathon Jones is a 24 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 his season, Dennis Schroeder and the 2013 NBA draft.

You had an up and down last season playing first for the Fraport Skyliners and being released, but finishing strong in Bosnia reaching the final losing in five games. How do you describe your season summary?

Germany was a great experience, I had some solid games but we weren’t winning. Going to Bosnia and playing in the Adriatic league was a good second start to the season.

You might feel like a Jim Kelly of the 90s Buffalo Bills because like him, you only have reached finals in your career losing in Slovakia and Bosnia. How tough has it been not being able to win a title yet?

It’s always tough losing in the finals but its great experience for me and hopefully wherever I go next year I can finally win a title.

In Bosnia you played 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%. How happy were you with your stats and individual play?

My Bosnian league numbers are misleading I didn’t play a lot in those games because we were winning by so much so my coach would play younger players and people who didn’t get a lot of playing time. As for the Adriatic league I think I played well, coming into a team half through is always tough but I think I put up solid numbers.

You shot 52% from outside in the Adriatic league. Did you do extra shooting from downtown in Bosnia?

No I didn’t do anything different just playing more and getting into a rhythm. It was tough when I was in Germany going in and out of the game and not finding a flow.

How did you spend the NBA draft evening? Were there any surprises in your mind?

I just hung out with some of my friends and watched the draft, Bennett going #1 was a surprise to me. All week they have been talking about taking a 5 man.

When you were with the Fraport Skyliners, you contributed to a 61-59 win against the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. What do you remember most from Dennis Schroeder?

Dennis Schroeder was a good player, he really knows how to use his speed. He uses the pick and roll well and has a great change of pace to his game.

Schroeder improved rapidly last season. You saw him in late October 2012. Did he look like  a potential NBA player to you?

When the coaches told me about him and his age I knew he had NBA potential.

What did you like most about his game?

I liked how he creates and gets into the lane. With his speed he can put a lot of pressure on the defense

How did you do against him on the court? What do you remember most from that night?

I think I did a good job on him when I was in there, that game I think Devin Gibson played him a lot but when I was matched up against him it was a good battle.

Schroeder is most compared to Rajon Rondo, but if you could pick another player that he reminds you of who would you say? Could one compare him to a Darren Collision in the body of Rondo?

I think the Darren Collision is a good comparison they are both quick and very active on the defensive end.

What do you like most about watching the NBA Draft?

I like seeing people dreams coming true and seeing people you played against getting their chance to be in the NBA

Were you surprised that Anthony Bennett was picked at number one?

I was surprised I thought the Cavs would take a big

Were you surprised how late Nerlens Noel was taken? Did it seem like NBA teams had Sam Bowie and Greg Oden disease?

No I think Noel will be solid he is athletic and that will translate well in the NBA

German Dennis Schroeder was chosen at #17 with the Atlanta Hawks. They have many free agents and Jeff Teague. Do you see the Hawks building around the 19 year old or bring in some free agent guards?

I think the Atlanta Hawks will bring in a veteran and help bring him a long but within the year it will be his team.

What is something you want to do this summer at home in the States that you haven´t been able to do for a while?

I just like spending time with my family and seeing friends I haven’t seen in awhile. But the main thing is having some of my moms cooking.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Last movie I saw was Identity theft

Thanks John for the chat.

Steven Bennett is a 24 year old 173cm point guard from Los Angeles that just completed his first season for the Spot Up Medien Baskets Braunschweig (Germany-ProB) and now is playing for the  Rockingham Flames (Australia-SBL). With Braunschweig he played 10 games averaging 22.7ppg, 4.1rpg, 5.1apg, 2.4spg, 2FGP: 57.5%, 3FGP: 34.2%, FT: 76.6% He is one of the few special players that has a tenacity and will to win that is unmatched; it is impossible to judge him based upon height alone because he can compete with anyone in the world. He has proven this in the Maui Invitational division I tournament in 2010, and was recognized as one of the top players (All-Maui Award) from a field of other top US point guards such as Kemba Walker, Kailin Lucas and Brandon Knight. Bennett is known for his great court vision and passing ability, and is able to get in the lane at will and finish against anyone with either left or right hand. Every team bases their defensive strategy around Bennett and is forced to take create his own shot and take his three point shots off the dribble. He is an excellent shooter, but wants to continue to improve his already respectable 40% three point percentage. Steven is known for having excellent leadership skills, and is highly respected by all of his peers and coaches. He played at Citrus JC (JUCO) from 2007-2009 and then played at  Chaminade (NCAA2) He played three games with possible 2013 NBA draft pick Dennis Schroeder and talked to German Hoops about playing with him and his chances in the NBA Draft.

 
Thanks Steven for talking to German Hoops. You have had a whirlwind of a rookie season taking you from Cyprus to Australia via Germany. It is now June, how is your body holding up? It has been a very long season for you.

A: It has been a long season, but I am holding up pretty well. I have always trained hard to keep my body in top shape, and I think that this added time in Australia has been great for continuing to keep me in shape and work on my game for next season.

You play for a team called the Rockingham Flames (Australia-SBL). How do you like Australia. How does the SBL league compare to the German PRO B where you played ten games for?

A: I like Australia so far. It has been nice to be in a country where I understand the language. The German Pro B league and Europe in general, was more centered around the pick and roll.

You could have gone home in April and have a long summer vacation. What were the main reasons for continuing your rookie season in Australia?

A: When the opportunity arose, I decided to come to Australia because I figured I could keep my body in shape while playing, and because I am a rookie, I wanted to take in as much experience as I could this year.

What is it like playing for a team that all has Australien players. Do they look up to you because you are an American that knows how to score?

A: I don’t know if they look up to me or not, but I try to be a good leader by example. I try to work hard at all times, and as a point guard, I take it upon myself to make everyone better.

What is something that you have learned about in Australia that you never knew before you came down under?

A: I didn’t know they really had kangaroos just roaming around. We went to an away game a couple weeks ago, and we just passed one when we were driving. That was crazy to me.

You had a very strong season in the PRO B where you dominated. You averaged 22.7ppg, 4.1rpg, 5.1apg, 2.4spg, 2FGP: 57.5%, 3FGP: 34.2%, FT: 76.6%. How pleased were you off your short season in Braunschweig?

A: I was pleased, but I am never content. I know that I can always improve, so that’s where my work ethic comes in. I am the type of person to constantly set goals, and since it is so early in my professional career, I have a lot more goals to meet.

Despite being a rookie and having such a strong season, on what areas would you have liked to have flourished more in your short time in Germany?

A: I think just adjusting to the European game and tempo, which would have developed more if I was there for a longer period of time.

Without knowing all the hype that was around Dennis Schroeder, would you have thought that he could be a potential first round draft pick in the NBA

A: Yes I think so, he is very young, but very experienced for his age. He has a much more mature and developed game than a lot of American players of his age.

You played three games together with Dennis Schroeder. In the last season game you had a typical game with 35 points and eight assists and he had 14 points and eight assists. If Schroeder gets drafted, is the game video something you would show your grand children one day?

A: I have been fortunate enough to play in some pretty big games in my career, including 7 nationally televised ESPN games against eventual NBA players when we were all in college. So I do have quite a few for the collection, but I definitely would add this game video where I am playing alongside a potential NBA draft pick as well.

What kind of an experience was it playing in the back court with Dennis Schroeder? What is something that you would like to have from his game?

A: It was a great experience because we just understood each other as basketball players. We took turns controlling the ball, and who ever had played the best over the course of the first three quarters, would control the majority of the fourth quarter. As a defender, he has long arms, which I thought helped him to play really good defense as a point guard.

Many compare him to Rajon Rondo, but if you had to choose a second NBA guard who would you compare him too?

A: I think Rondo is probably the best comparison, but I don’t think it’s fair to compare him really. Now that he’s getting drafted, he’s going to make a name for himself.

When you look at the other guards in the draft like Trey Burke, Michael carter Williams, CJ Mccollum or Shane Larkin, he is behind all of them. Where do you see Schroeder in all facets of the game in comparison to these guards?

A: I think he will compete with all of these guards. He has the athleticism and length to defend any of those guards, and I think his experience playing in Germany professionally has helped develop his game tremendously. His basketball IQ is great as a result.

Do you see him having a long NBA career? His young age and the skills he already has and his development long from over has to be scary with the possibility of how good he can still get?

A: Definitely. I think that his potential is unlimited. It is just a matter of how much time he puts in and how hard he works. At the end of the day, Im firm in the saying: “Hard work beats talent, when talent doesn’t work hard.”

What was the most amazing thing that you saw Dennis Schroeder do in a practice or game?

A: I don’t think there was anything in particular, but more of something that I noticed continually. His composure on the court for such a young guy was amazing.

In all the chats you had with Dennis Schroeder, what will always stick in your mind with the words he gave you?

A: I really don’t any particular words that stood out.

Do you think that you will return to Germany next season? You surely have the game for the PRO A.

A: I appreciate that. I really liked Germany, so we will see. I just want to keep being able to perform on bigger and bigger stages and continue to showcase my game against better and better competition. I excel in games where I am the most challenged, I am an extremely competitive person.

When will you be home in the States and how does a normal Steven Bennett work out day look like in the summer?

A: I will be home either early or late August depending on how my team here finishes off the season. When I do get home, my workouts start at 6:00am with drills and skills at my old high school gym. Then after a couple hours, we head outside to the track and do agility or plyometrics. Then we go home for a bit and eat, and then lift weights in the afternoon. Then the day usually ends with an open run somewhere in Los Angeles or a summer league game in the Drew League.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

A: The last DVD movie I watched was Role Models.

Thanks Steve for the chat.

Chicago Cubs Fans have been wishing for a World Series win since 105 years  and have had to hear the heckling of White Sox fans since 2005 why they can´t win, kids dreaming of meeting a Messi or Ronaldo or just getting an autograph or for any unknown actor to be able to work with legendary actor Robert De Niro. Well it hasn´t been 105 years, but in the pretty country town of Tuebingen hard core basketball fans have been waiting  to see basketball in May and just taste that playoff atmosphere since entering the league in 2004. Tuebingen is your typical small city with 89,000 people living there, has the beautiful Neckar river, unending nature to observe in the many parks, a high abundance of scholars and the basketball club Walter Tigers Tuebingen. There isn´t too much to do in Tuebingen, but it is always a momentous experience taking in a game in the Paul Horn arena seeing the breathtaking atmosphere and wondering if Tiger mascot Walter ever cringes in his sleep about the blinding pink in the arena. The Walter Tigers Tuebingen since their arrival in 2004 have never been more than a foot note in the Beko BBL, but in the last years the club has made a nice development and have made more of a name for themselves.

The Walter Tigers Tuebingen have been known in the past few years as being one of those Beko BBL teams that doesn´t have the biggest budgets, but still have the power to haul in talented and interesting players within their budget that offer themselves to better teams with strong seasons in the Swaben city. In the past years, players like AJ Moye, Michael Haynes, Branislav Ratkovica or Jermaine Anderson have used The Walter Tigers Tuebingen as a place to tone their skills while also enjoying some juicy meat at the OX US steakhouse after practice or games. Tigers head coach Igor Perovic came on board in 2009 and has done a fine job keeping the team in the middle pack of the standing and sometimes grazing on the boundry  of the playoff places like a famished cow on the pasture always hungry for more while having talented players according to their budget. Perovic was responsible for bringing in somewhat established players like Romeo Travis, Michael Jenkins, Chris Oliver and Dane Watts who have all moved on to bigger and better things on the basketball map. Especially in 2011-2012, the Serb head coach had the right feeling bringing in Josh Young from the PRO B, Vaughn Duggins and Tyrone Nash from the NCAA and Reggie Redding from Cyprus and all four players eclipsed expectations and didn´t follow the trend of past years and fleeing to snatch the bigger bucks somewhere else, but already got contract extensions during their rookie seasons. It isn´t a secret that finding the right mix of players can have a huge impact on team chemistry and how a team does in the standings.

Already early in their existence in the Beko BBL, Tuebingen had some good seasons leaning on the back door of the playoffs finishing the 2006 season in 12^th place and 2007 season in 10^th. The 2008 and 2009 seasons weren´t as spectacular, but since head coach Igor Perovic came on board in 2009, the team has played more consistent and the season ending standings placement tell the story. In 2010, they finished in 12^th place having a six game winning streak in the second half of the season including a buzzer beater ally op score and win against Bamberg from Romeo Travis, but losing consistency in the last months losing eight of the last 13 games. In 2010-2011, they finished in 11^th place but a six game losing streak in March hindered any playoff appearance and in 2011-2012, the Tigers finished in 12^th place with a much needed winning streak being absent at the end. Perovic is a players coach that knows how to get the best from his players. He has a very high reputation in the Beko BBL. He will never win a shouting duel on the sidelines with Sasa Obradovic as he is more reserved, but he knows his xs and os and gets the most out of the talent that he has.

The Walter Tigers Tuebingen have never been as close to the playoffs as they were  last season. It has been another very positive season for the Tigers as everybody saw them as a team that would be living in the middle of the standings last season. The team chemistry last season was heightened in that Perovic was able to keep many players from last season. Perovic who has been known for having the right touch finding the correct players from the NCAA to help his team in the best way possible the same way a Rick Pitino does for his Louisville team. Perovic brought in Kenny Frease who gave more stability under the boards and possibly his unorthodox gum chewing may have been a secret weapon to intimidating opponents. He also had the right feeling bringing in talented German Johannes Lischka who carried the team and stepped up in many games last season. Perovic did have one misfire with Dale Douglas who was unable to make the jump from the NCAA to the Beko BBL being released early in the season, but he had another strike with American Cameron Wells who brought consistency to the guard position. With one game left in the regular season, the Beko BBL remained as exciting as ever with a bunch of teams seemingly wrapped together in sticky spaghetti trying to break free to get the last playoff places. It remained very exciting for Phoenix Hagen, the Telekom Baskets Bonn and s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg, and also for Tuebingen. The only way Tuebingen could have reached the playoffs was with a win in Ulm and getting much help from  MBC, Bamberg and FC Bayern  Munich. It was a pity for the diehard Tiger fans that it just didn´t want to be again as they lost in Ulm, but the Tigers are getting closer and closer each season. All in all it was another successful season for Tuebingen and the club continues to make strides in their growth as they finished in 10^th place. Everybody talks about the exceptional work of coaches like Sebastian Machwoski and Ingo Freyer, but a Igor Perovic deserves to be mentioned with them. Tuebingen would not be where it is now without the guidance of the Serb. It will be interesting to see what happens in the offseason and if key players can be kept like a Vaughn Duggings, Kenny Frease or Tyrone Nash. Reggie Redding probably will be gone and deserves to play for a Euroleague team. Perovic already has gotten busy dabbling with NCAA talent signing Ben Simons and hauling in experienced Nils Mittmann. Perovic also brought back his friend Aleksandar Nadjfeji as an assistant coach/player. Possibly this Serbian duo can bring that playoff magic in the future? The trend in Tuebingen is up and the next step is for the Tigers to munch on Beko BBL teams in the playoffs even if they have to keep playing a sort of basketball lottery each off season.