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.

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.