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.

Davon Roberts is a 27 year old 197cm forward from Covina, California. He started his basketball career with  Cal.St. Sacramento in 2004 where he played until 2007 playing 83 NCAA games. He played his senior year 2007-2008 with Azusa Pacific (NAIA). He turned professional in 2008 and played with  Spot Up Medien Baskets Braunschweig (Germany-ProB, starting five): 29 games: 16.5ppg, Reb-2(9.4rpg), 2.1apg, 1.7spg, Blocks-5(1.0bpg), FGP: 60.1%, 3PT: 13.3%, FT: 67.4%. In 2009-2010, he played with  BV Chemnitz 99 (Germany-ProA): 29 games: 10.5ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 57.2%, 3PT: 31.4%, FT: 56.3%. In 2010-2011, he played with Mitteldeutscher BC Weissenfels (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 22 games: 3.2ppg, 1.9rpg. In 2011-2012, he played with BiG Oettinger Rockets Gotha (Germany-ProB): 15 games: 5.5ppg, 3.1rpg, FGP: 59.6%, FT: 54.1%. Lasts eason he sat out to gte his degree and now is ready to get back into the swing of things and play professional basketball. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

You took off last year to get your degree. What was the main reason for taking a break after 4 years of playing and going back to school?

The main reason for me taking the year off to get my degree was to make my parents proud. Ever since I left college they have been on me about going back to school. School is more important than basketball in my family so I decided to go back and finish so they would be happy

Was there not a way to get your degree online? I mean as a player one has alot of free time during the season in Europe.

There wasn’t a way for me to get my degree online due to the fact that the rest of my classes where for my major and in order to receive credit I had to be present in the class room.

How strange was it not playing professional basketball. How much did you miss it?

It was probably one of my toughest years but it will help me in the long run. I love basketball so I missed playing it a whole lot. This year I had to live through some of my close friends who play basketball overseas I followed a lot of them this year. This was the first year in a while when i have not played organized basketball. Luckily I had an opportunity to be an assistant coach at Azusa Pacific University so I was around the game all day everyday.

Were you able to keep in shape?

Yes I was able to keep in shape since I was around the college team they would always want me to workout with them some even challenge me one on one so it worked for me and was a good way to stay in shape. The gym was open 24/7 so I basically lived in the gym for my time off.

Do you think not playing a season will lessen your market value?

I dont think it should lessen my value but I do think I will have to prove to teams that I can still play at a high level. Which i am positive I can. This year off i believe made me hungrier and eager to get back on the court.

Now you are ready to attack the job market again. You played four seasons in Germany. What makes Germany so appealing to you to keep coming back?

I love Germany I meet some really amazing people while my time there. A lot of fans still write me on Facebook asking me when am I going to come back. It motivates me to get back over there because I love my fans and it is a blessing.

You played as a rookie with the Spot Up Medien Baskets in 2008. Did it surprise you that an Ivan Jenkins who led the Pro B in scoring wasn´t able to really make a jump to higher levels and make a name for himself?

I am surprised that Ivan didn’t get a higher look he was a solid point guard who knew how to put the ball in the bucket.

How much did head coach Liviu Calin help you as a rookie. What was the most important thing that you learned from him?

Coach Liviu was hands down one of my favorite coaches I have ever played for. He pushes you beyond your limits which you would never even know was possible. He always believed in me.

Does it surprise you that a Dennis Schroeder will most likely be a 2013 NBA #1 draft pick after going through the Liviu Calin school?

It doesn’t surprise me at all Dennis Schroeder has game. He is a nice crafty point guard and it would be good to watch him take his skills to the next level. I know that Liviu has prepared him for the next level.

You had a strong rookie season and then went to the Pro A. You had a solid season in Chemnitz. Were you ready for the Beko BBL after that season?

I felt I was ready for the BBL just didn’t quit get the opportunity I was expecting.

In 2010-2011, you played for MBC. You played 22 games averaging 3,2ppg and 1,9rpg. Did head coach Bjoern Harmsen just not have enough trust in you or weren´t you ready for that level?

Bjorn is one of the toughest coaches I ever played for he expected perfection out of everyone for 40 minutes. It is tough playing basketball thinking that if you miss this shot there will be a sub waiting for you at the table lol.

What was your most classic Michael Jordan story?

I have too many Michael Jordan stories, but he was a great teammate to have. His will to win is strong just like mine.

Did he ever catch you wide mouthed fast asleep on the bus on road trips?

No I don’t think he ever snapped a picture of me but if he did I have one of him for collateral.

The last team that you played for was the BiG Oettinger Rockets Gotha (Germany-ProB) What do you remember most from German guard Konstantin Klein who made the transition from pro B to beko BBL well.

Big Money Klein was a competitor he knew how to compete in practice and in games. So it is good to see him doing well in the BBL.

If you could describe your game in a few sentences, how would you grab the attention of potential German basketball teams?

I believe I have a strong will to win and I will do whatever it takes to win. I am a leader by example and a player who plays hard on both ends.

How does a normal Davon Roberts work out day look like during the summer?

I workout with one of my mentors growing up Cameron Murray. He puts me through several different drills in areas which I need to improve in. We usually do shooting drills and ball handling drills in the morning then run bleachers or the sand dunes in Manhattan Beach then at night play 5 on 5. It is tough but it is what I need in order to get back on the court.

What is a place you still want to visit this summer where you haven´t been too in a long time?

There is no place like Los Angles California so I guess the only other place I would like to visit would be my second favorite place Berlin Germany.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The Last DVD I watched was Anchor Man.

Thanks Davon for the chat.

Christopher Jones is a 22 year old 183cm guard from katy, texas. Last season he played his second season for  BG Dorsten (Germany-ProB. As a rookie for Dorsten, he played  22 games: 14.5ppg, 4.8rpg, Assists-1(7.5apg), Steals-3(2.8spg), FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 73.3%. as a rookie he played for  BC Prievidza (Slovakia-Extraliga), left after 1 game, came back in March’11; Slovakian League: 8 games: 15.1ppg, 5.0rpg, 6.0apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 73.2%. He played college ball for : Prairie View A&M (NCAA). He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Chris where are you at the moment and how are you enjoying your summer?
I’m at home in Katy Texas, my summer is going really well. Been playing in summer leagues and pro ams against high level competition
After a long season in Germany, what was the  first thing that you did when you came back home to the States?
I hung out with my twin brother and ate some Mexican food at mission burrito.
What were the main reasons that you didn´t play in the 2011-2012 season? Was it difficult coming back this season and play for BG Dorsten after sitting out a season?
I was supposed to go to China for a showcase, I had been practicing that whole summer with the team I was going with. Then at the last minute it was cancelled in October, mainly because of the NBA lockout. So after, the agent who I was signed with wasn’t helping me like I thought and we parted ways pretty much in the middle of the European season. So I pretty much had to sit out that year. Teams thought I was hurt that year but that wasn’t the case.
BG Dorsten didn´t have such a strong season finishing in 10th place with a record of 9-13. Why wasn´t the team more competitive?
Healthy we were one of the top teams in the league. We just had many injuries and a lot of switching in personnel. So it was hard for us to bounce back, but despite all the bad luck we still were only one game from the playoffs.
You had a solid season playing 22 games: 14.5ppg, 4.8rpg, Assists-1(7.5apg), Steals-3(2.8spg), FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 73.3%. How happy were you with your season?
I was somewhat happy, I knew I would lead in assists before the season. Getting All-defensive team was an honor as well. I just felt like my point average could have been a lot better. I’m really hard on myself as well so I always feel I can do a lot better.
You led the Pro B in assists. Would you call youself a classical point guard from nature?
You know being a great passer can’t be taught. I was just born with it and I pride myself in getting all my teammates involved. I would agree with the classical pg, I feel I’m a pure point guard and that’s hard to find nowadays, because I don’t worry about taking a lot of shots.
To what NBA point guard would you compare your game too and what NBA point guards were your role models as a kid?
I like to compare my game to Chris Paul, that is a name I hear people compare me to, they call me young CP3 out here where I live. Depending on how I’m playing I will hear CP3 or Rondo. Chris Paul is my favorite player in the NBA, but I have always liked Tony Parker as well.
You had some big games against Recklinghausen or Hannover. What game was your season highlight?

Our first derby game at Wulfen was probably my season highlight, because we won and I played great. It was fun experiencing that rivalry. Recklinghausen was as well because I had 15 assists and that was the highest in one game all season in the league.
What is a strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?
I rebound really well for a point guard. I’m usually one of the top leading rebounders on teams I have played on in the past.
If you could give a short description of your game and why any team should grab you for the upcoming season how would you put it?
I make everyone around me better. I’m not selfish and I’m all about the team. Teammates enjoy playing with me, I produce in every category and hate losing. I can rebound, defend any guard, can shoot, and no one can pass like me.
Do you think that you could make the jump to the pro A?
Yes I know I can make the jump to Pro A, I played great against Pro A teams during the preseason. I’m just waiting on one team to give me a chance.
How does a normal Christopher Jones work out day look like during the summer?
Workout in the gym and do some drills with my brothers in the morning. Go and lift weights during the day and hoop at night.
Who would win a one on one in practice you or Gene Hagner?
Gene was the most physical player in practice on our team and best defender, but of course I will say me I am competitive.
What was your nicest memory with Dorian Mcdaniel at Prarie View A & M?
I wouldn’t consider this nice but the most memorable thing was when half our team got stuck on an elevator and our teammate started panicking going crazy lol.
What was the last DVD movie that you saw?
Dark skies.

Thanks Chris for the chat.

Andre Calvin is a 201cm forward from Michigan that recently completed his second season with German Pro A team Erdgas Ehingen.  With Ehingen he played  33 games: 16.2ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 75.0%He is a long and athletic forward that possesses good quickness and a leaping ability. Has an excellent jump shot and can score the ball off the dribble or on a post up. Also, he is a solid competitor who can adequately defend and who grabs rebounds at his side of the court. He played at drake(NCAA) and started his professional basketball career in 2007 for  Gussing Knights (Austria-A Bundesliga, starting five): 29 games: 13.8ppg, 6.0rpg, 2FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 75.0%. He then played for Casino Figueira Ginasio (Portugal-LPB, starting five): 11 games: 11.8ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.6spg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT: 11.4%, FT: 59.3%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Andre thanks for taking some time to speak to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how have you been enjoying your summer?

Thank you for interviewing me. Right now I am in Charlotte, North Carolina and I have been having a good summer so far.

You just completed your second season for Erdgas Ehingen. How proud were you of the season for a team that has so many youth players, but still were able to make the playoffs.

I am very proud of the season that we had. We had a lot of young guys on our team that stepped up and played a big role for us. I give credit to our leaders Virgil Matthews and Garrett Williamson for our success.

SC Rasta Vechta got past Edgas Ehingen in the playoffs. What were the main reasons for the club not being able to get by the new Beko BBL team?

They had a lot of experience on their team and every mistake we made they made us pay for it. I think it was a learning experience for everyone on our team on what to expect when going to the playoffs. It’s a different game, every possession is important.

You played against SC Rasta Vechta 5 times this season and lost each game. Will this club be competitive in the Beko BBL?

I think they will be able to compete in the Beko BBL, because they’re an unselfish team, they have a good coach, and they have some key players coming back next season.

You had a very strong season averaging 16.2ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 75.0%. How pleased were you with your season?

I was pleased with the season, because I worked really hard last summer. This season was not lucky or a fluke. I put in the work and good things happened from it.

You had a huge increase in your stats compared to your 2011-2012 season in Ehingen. How did you improve your game in the last season?

I asked Coach Junge what are the things that I need to get better at and he told me exactly what I needed to do. And I watch film from last season to see what I was doing well and what I was doing wrong.

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

The ability to be able to step out and shoot the three. That was one of the reasons why I worked so hard at improving my shot because I knew most opponents would underestimate my ability to shoot from long range.

After your strong season last season, you are hoping for some offers from Beko BBL teams. If you could sell yourself in a few sentences how would you make yourself interesting for Beko BBL teams?

I work hard at all times no matter if its in practice or a game. I’m coachable and I don’t come with any baggage. Also from looking at the two seasons that I played at Ehingen I improved as a player and our team improved its record, going to the playoffs.

You have played two seasons under head coach Ralph Junge. He is known as a very competent coach especially for young players, but how has he helped you become a better player?

He has helped me improve my game in a lot of ways. He changed the form on my shot, made my footwork better, and he also gave me confidence in my game. He does a great job at motivating and getting the most out of his players.

Who has been your most difficult opponent player that you have tangled with in the Pro A the last two seasons?

I’d have to say its Javion Harris from Karlsruhe, he was the opponent that stood out to me this year.

How have you witnessed the development of 204cm German Sid Marlon Thies. You see him each day in practice.

He has a lot of upside. With his height, quickness and scoring ability. He’s the type of player that can guard all five positions and hold his own. By far the hardest worker on our team, and a great teammate.

How does a typical Andre Calvin work out day look like in the summer?
I get up at 4 am to do basketball drills, lift, and run. I come back in the afternoon and play pick up.

You played at Drake with guys like Josh Young, Johnathan Cox and Adam Emmenecker who all have played in Germany. What memories do you have of these three teammates?

Josh Young is like a brother to me, we would go to each other’s games in Germany and show each other support. I remember when he first came to Drake as a freshman. I always knew he would be a good basketball player. Johnathan and Adam, were great teammates. Johnathan always encouraged me to add the three point shot to my game.

You had Tom Davis as coach at Drake. What was the most important thing that he gave you on your way to becoming a professional basketball player?

He told me how important it was to be professional, coachable, and to always get better every offseason.

What is something you still want to do this summer something that you haven´t been able to do the last years?

Go back home to Detroit and play in some summerleagues.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Flight

Thanks Andre for the chat.

Brian Harper is a 27 year old 206cm forward that recently completed his first season in Germany in the Beko BBL for TBB Trier. He Played 33 games for TBB Trier averaging 11,0ppg and 4,8rpg and 1,0apg. He started off playing guard at 6’5″ at Paine and grew to 6’10” and never changing positions. Brian’s a smooth shooting wing with explosive athleticism. He has tremendous lateral movement with a wing span of 7’4″. Brian is a talented ball handler. He adds an extra advantage as he utilizes his size to rebound over smaller defenders. He played at Paine(NCAA2) from 2003-2007. He turned professional in 2007 and played for Gimle BBK Bergen (Norway-1Div., starting five): 15 games: Score-3(25.1ppg), 8.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.2spg, 2.0bpg, 2FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 21.5%, FT: 66.3%. In 2008-2009, he played for KCC Egis (Korea-KBL, starting five): Korean League: 9 games: 15.1ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 76.7%; released in Nov.’08, in Feb.’09 moved to Sioux Falls Skyforce (D-League): 8 games: 3.5ppg, 1.6rpg; in March ’09 signed at Reno Bighorns (D-League): 5 games: 1.2ppg. In the last three years, he played in Japan for  Toyama Grouses (Japan-BJ League) playing a total of 102 games. Last season, he played 49 games: 16.3ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 28.7%, FT: 61.3%. He spoke to German Hoops during the last season about basketball.

You are playing your first season for TBB Trier. How do you like it so far?

I love it here. I love the city, enjoy the people and the TBB Trier organization. The organization really takes care of all the things off the court which makes it easier to concentrate on basketball

Trier is a beautiful area. What are the biggest geographical differences to Stone mountain, Georgia?

I think it is colder in Trier and there are more hills here. In Atlanta is very flat and also no body of water. In Trier there is the river.

You played three seasons in Japan. What was the biggest transition that you had to do coming to the Beko BBL?

Just the style of basketball. In Japan there is more isolation and more like the NBA and team orientated. But I have to say that I have enjoyed my time in the German league and it has been a good experience for me.

Is defense before offense in Trier a mentality that you could become friends with?

Yes I got used to it early. Coach Rodl stressed at the start of the season. We have many great athletes that can play multiple positions and because of that we can do so much on defense. The more defensive stops that we get the better chance we have to win.

What do you like most about the coaching style of Henrik Rodl?

He is a tremendous coach. I like how he is able to relate to his players and is able to get his point across. He is a players coach. He knows exactly what he needs to get out of his players. I really enjoy playing for him.

What is the secret of the early success of the TBB Trier?

I don´t think that there is really any secret. We just give very much effort and put in a lot of hardwork. Every guy just wants to sacrifice his body to play defense. Coach has a good scheme and all the players abide by it.

You can play the 3 and 4 position. How much fun is it to play with American Nate Linhart? How do you guys compliment each other best on the court?

Linhart is a great player. He has a great knack for playing defense and getting steals and being in the right place. We both can play multiple positions. We both understand what each guy does which gives us so much more room to do things. If one of us makes a mistake then the other guy picks up the slack.

Who has been the unsung TBB Trier player so far?

Jarrett Howell has been our unsung hero. I don´t think he gets the credit that he deserves. He is our floor general and gets everybody going and makes sure that everybody is in the right place.

You have very skinny legs. What were common names that people called you?

I never really heard any names.

Not even chicken legs?

No not that either or at least not to my face.

A hidden strength in your game is your shot blocking. Who was your role model defender?

Scottie Pippen was because of his determination and tenacity to be able to guard all players.

You leave many players behind you when you penetrate with your quick first step. Do you hear trash talking on the court?

Every now and then, because everybody on the court is competitive, but usually not. The Beko BBL is very professional and everybody is very focused on doing their job.

Vitalis Chicoko is a very athletic player. What has been the most amazing thing that you have seen him do?

He is super athletic. He reminds me  a lot of me. He can play many different positions and can do so much. I think the most amazing thing that I have seen him do is just the way he uses his long legs. He has grabbed some rebounds that I never would of thought that he could of reached.

Who was your NBA idol as kid?

Kevin Garnett was always my favorite player. I liked his intensity and how hard he played. I never saw him not play hard.

What was your nicest memory at Paine?

Getting player of the year and reaching the conference final.

Your toughest opponent in the NCAA was Cuxhaven American Monya Pratt. What made it so difficult to play against him?

He was one of those players where you knew that he could play. He was just a very tough player and we had many nice battles against each other in college.

What was your biggest advantage being an American in Japan where you played three years?

That I was taller than everyone else.

What is still missing from your ex teammate Devin Searcy to reach the NBA who played shortly with the 76ers?

Nothing is missing. He is very young and will be in the NBA. It is just a matter of time.

What NCAA story would you like to hear from Henrik Rodl from his time at North Carolina?

I asked him how it felt playing at a stage like that where you were always expected to win.

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

50.

What was your most crazy shot in your career?

I hit two full court shots once with a swish and the other a bank shot using one hand like a football quarterback.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

End of watch. A great football movie.

Thanks Brian for the chat.

Simon Cummings is a 23 year old 185cm point guard from Port St Lucie, Florida that is looking to start his second professional season. He played at  Florida Tech (NCAA2) from 2008-2012. Lasts eason as a rookie he played in England for the  London Leopards (United Kingdom-EBL D1, starting five): 17 games: 18.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 4.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 75.5%. Last season he almost played in Germany, but then took the offer from London. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Thanks Simon for taking some time to talk to eurobasket.com. Where are you at the moment and how are you enjoying your summer vacation?

Right now I am in Florida enjoying the sunshine that this states has to offer, and also I am going to take a two week vacation to Canada in a week or so

You played as a rookie in England for the London Leopards (United Kingdom-EBL D1). Why was this one of the worst experiences for you?

I wouldn’t say playing for the London leopards was the worst experiences of my life. Iwould say that adjusting to the way the game is played in England and the Fiba rules was a tough transition.

What was it like as an American to live in London? What was the coolist experience that you had there?

It was very different. I would say the people the culture the climate. Even the basketball was different but it was worth it and it was fun. The coolest experience I gain from living in London was the connectivity to Europe I got to travel a little and see Europe which most people don’t get to do

In pre season, you had an offer from German Pro B team SC Rist Wedel. Why didn´t you take that?

Well right after my college season was over. I was approached by Rist Wedel with an offer. This was my first pro contract offer and I didnt know what to expect, and since I had 3 more months of summer to gain exposure I felt like weighing my options was a better fit for me at that time.

You had good stats in England averaging 18.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 4.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 75.5%. How would you compare the style and skill level of that league compared to the NCAA 2 level?

I would say playing NCAA division 2 at the time was more demanding of my time. We had practice 6 days a week plus classes. Playing in England its tough to get gym time so most of the time practice was cut short. I wasnt a big fan of that because in college my gym was available to me whenever I wanted which is why I shot a better % from behind the arch and the FT line in college.

What was it like playing playing for 43 year old player/coach Robert Youngblood?

Playing for Robert Youngblood was a good experience. We both wanted to win and would do anything to win on any given night so playing for a competitor like that is always amazing. It was my first year as a Pro and also his first year as a coach so it was definatly a learn curve for both of us in our young careers.

Youngblood has been playing in England since 1994. Wasn´t he able to make you a bit more comfortable there?

Youngblood did his best to make the situation as home as possible. The most important thing to me was gym availability, and with the way our club was set up this year it wasnt much he could do to get me extra gym time to work on my game.

The Leopards reached the semi finals of the playoffs. How happy were you with the team season and what was missing from winning a title?

Well this year was full of ups and downs. But with our backs against the wall we came together the second part of the season and put together a great run down the stretch wining 8 out of 11 games to win the National trophy finish top four in our league and make it to the final four. We went into overtime to against the best team in the league after controlling the whole game and lost by 5 on some questionable calls. But all in all we put our best foot forward and im proud of the guys.

You played four years at Florida Tech for Billy Mims. What was the most important thing that you learned from him that has gotten you prepared for a professional career?

Playing for Mims was amazing. Ever since day one he drilledt thing I would say I learned from Coach Mims was a professional attitude and work ethic. a professional attitude into me. Once I walked onto campus he made sure I approached every workout and everyone lesson like a professional. Not just basketball, when we went into the community to do volunteer work he made sure that I acted and looked professional. so the most important thing I would say I learned from Coach Mims was a professional attitude and work ethic.

You got an NCAA 2 record making 10 consecutive three pointers against Trinity. Did you know early on that you would have a big day from outside?

The funny things about that day that I hit 10 in a row, me and my assistant coach Ryan Ballard was joking around during shoot around. Ryan said to me “Cinco when are you going to get your self in the record books” I replied to him before the year is over im going break the record for most 3s made in a game at Florida Tech. and that night I broke both records most 3pts made in a row and most made in a game with 12.

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

I would say my passing. People who watched me play know I can shoot/score and they know I have a strong body that can finish through traffic but I think those skills amaze people more than my court vision.

Who is your point guard role model and too what player could you compare your game to?

Growing up I admired Jason Kidd he is the reason I wear number 5 to this day when he played for the New jersey Nets. I would compare my game to Will Bynum. We have the same body frame and the same ability to penetrate and score through contact.

Your nickname is cinco. Why do people call you this? In Spanish it means five.

Well ive been wearing number 5 ever since I started playing basketball and one day in high school sitting in spanish class I wrote all over my book “Agent~Cinco” and the cinco just stuck but the agent fell off just as quick as gilbert arenas did.

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

I played against some good players during my college career like Tony Denison from FSU Jermaine Taylor from UCF and Chandler Parson from UF but the best I would say is Tony Denison because that was my match up, but as far as success in the league till today. I would have to say CP the way he played for the Houston Rockets this season was unbelievable.

Who would win a one on one in practice you or Julius Reid?

This question is probably the funniest of them all because till this day me and Ju Reid go at it on the court! He was my sidekick for 3 years and us playing one on one came up plenty of times. Even though i wont most of the battles I would say its always a tuff match up because he knew my game just as well as I know his.

Would you like to come to Germany to play? What do you know about the league and country?

I would love to come to Germany and play. I have heard great things about the country and its basketball. I know the Beko Basketball Bundesliga is respected all through Europe and the countries ProA and ProB is a great chance to play against so great players.

Do you have any friends playing in Germany now?

I know a couple of people who played in Germany and who is playing in Germany. Im close friends with Dejuan Collins, he started his pro career in Germany. Also I have spoke to Augie johnston a couple of times. My good friend Willie Withfield also played last season in Germany.

If you could sell yourself in a few sentences as to why you would be a good fit for a team how would you describe yourself as a player?

Im a team player first. What ever the team needs done ill do it. If its locking down the opposing teams best guard ill do my best. If its score ill do it, if im asked to set people up and get them open looks ill do it. Im willing to do anything that will help my team win a championship. The last two programs I played at I walked away with the MVP honors and a Championship that the program has NEVER won. In college Florida Tech has never won a conference championship and my senior year  I helped deliver that. At the Essex Leopards a team that won the treble last year has never won the “national trophy” and I help deliver that.

How does a typical Simon Cummings work out day look like in summer?

On a typical day of workouts I would get up get breakfast. Then hit the weight room for about an hours and a half. Then After the weight room I would get up about 500 shots and work on certain moves and floaters to better my game. Then I would grab some lunch and take a 2 hour break. Then go to a local gym for open gym for cardio and game like simulation.

Your favorite athlete is Kobe Bryant. Do you feel that he will return and be the old Kobe Bryant?

I feel like Kobe is battling father time, and saying that father time is undefeated. But taking time off to heal properly I think this can pro-long his career for 2 years and he will still be a scoring threat. But the same Kobe Bryant, I doubt it.

What is your alltime basketball dream that you would like to see come true besides being an NBA player?

My all time goals for hoops is just to be a winner. A lot of players get all the fame and attention while they are playing but if you dont win anything you wont be  remembered.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD I Watched honestly was “kobe doing work” by spike lee.
but the last movie I saw was Fast 6

Thanks Simon for the chat.