Jermelle Fraser is a 186cm guard that was born in 1987. He is a pure point guard with good passing qualities and is good at changing speeds. He played  at Suny Maritime(NCAA 3) in 2009. In his senior year, he played 21 games averaging 8,2ppg, 2,5rpg and 2,5apg. He is still looking to land with a team in Europe for a full season. Recently he took part for the Jersey G-Force of the IBL league in training camp. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

Thank you for your time. I am currently in NYC where I was born and raised. My summer so far has been pretty good, I can’t complain at all

You have played for some touring teams but never a complete season in Europe. How tough has the job market been this summer?

The market has been really tough this summer. And As a guard its always tougher. Theres just so many of us out here all trying to get the same spot

Teams in countries like Germany, Finland and England are interested in you. What makes your game suitable to the European style?

A few things make my game suitable. I’m a tough guard with both speed and quickness. I can play at different speeds all the time so that definitely helps

Your a classic point guard that is  atrue floor general. What is your strongest quality on the court?

My strongest quality I’d have to say is defense, whether its on or off the ball. Its something I take pride in.

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

My rebounding ability usually doesnt get noticed right away. I’m about 6ft, but I have a long wiry strong frame along with some good athleticism

Which player was your role model as a kid and what player do you look up to now?

Michael Jordan was my role model as a kid. I looked up to him then and still do now.

What has been the best experience you have had as a player since finishing at Suny Maritime in 2009?

I would say touring and competing in England around September with the USA Select squad. Although I wasn’t able to get picked up at the time, all in all it was a good experience

If you could describe yourself in a few sentences how would you sell yourself to a professional team the best?

Jermelle Fraser posseses a strong work ethic .. He is a relentless defender and can help run any team with the ball in his hands

How does  a typical summer workout day look for you in 2012?

Well .. I try to focus on conditioning. When I am in tip-top shape I feel I can do whatever I please on the basketball court. Then I try to get alot of shots up. Particularly outside the arch and pulling up in the lane, things I didnt have in college. Calisthenics and a little bit of weights every other day.

Who would beat who in their prime, the Dream team or 2012 team USA?

That is a good question! I actually had a discussion about this the other day with some fellow Bball friends… DREAM TEAM

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

One of my favorites… “Above the Rim”

Thanks Jermelle for the chat.

Japhet Mcneil is a 27 year old 183 cm guard from Brooklyn, New York. He played at East Carolina from 2003 -2006. He then transferred to Bridgeport(NCAA2) for his senior year in 2006-2007. At Bridgeport, he played 31 games averaging 16.6ppg, 4.0rpg, 4.9apg, 4.0spg, FT: 67.3%, FGP: 38.3%, 3PT: 34.6%. In 2008-2009, he played his rookie season in Germany in the PRO A for USC Heidelberg playing 30 games and averaging 14.8ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-1(7.9apg), Steals-1(3.5spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 24.1%, FT: 63.3%. In 2009-2010, he played in Finland for Kori-Konkarit Loimaa (Finland-1st Division, starting five): 5 games: 9.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.8apg, 3.4spg, FGP: 35.0%, 3PT: 19.0%, FT: 50.0%. In 2010-2011, he played for BG Karlsruhe (Germany-ProA): 3 games: 4.0ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.7apg. Last season he played for the Connecticut TopBallerz (ABA)
an dthis summer took part at the EuroDraft Camp in Schwechat (Austria): Cronus team: 4 games: 5.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.3apg, 1.0spg and the Blacktop Showcase (Team Finland B4) He spoke to Eurobasket about Basketball and life.

 

 

 

 

Japhet thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. We are in the middle of summer. Where are you presently and how have you enjoyed your summer the best away from the court?

 

Hey Miles, thanks for having me its always a pleasure and fun. Yea we are in mid summer, I’m actually in NYC that’s home sweet home for me. It’s been a good summer thus far, I was able to attend some exposure events and participate in some individuals to stay at surface and get my game evaluated by scouts. So I wasn’t away from the courts this summer, I went to Austria Vienna and attended the euro draft event, that was great I thought I played well and showed a good floor game from the pg perspective and in a camp setting with playing equal minutes and in increments, I did some networking met some good players and enjoyed Vienna at this point. I’m still waiting on some good feedback I got from the camp along with the exposure event that was in NYC black top mng same settings I attended that as well, I invested in my career rather than the nyc streetball this summer.

You had a very strong rookie season with USC Heidelberg in 2008-2009 playing 30 games: 14.8ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-1(7.9apg), Steals-1(3.5spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 24.1%, FT: 63.3%., Are you a bit disappointed that you weren´t able to get a job in the Beko BBL the next season?

 

Yes indeed, that was a solid campaign for USC Heidelberg my rookie season. Its sort of weird but I am a tough critic toward myself and I say to myself that was a sub par year individually because I was so new to the experience, but I’d like to see myself when I am at a comfort level, Your level rises. That’s where I’m pretty much at right now with my game, trying to play at a high comfort level. The BBL teams didn’t make any concrete attempts at me, disappointing yes but motivational at the same time. That following year I took the offer in Cyprus, but it didn’t work out tough country but great experience.

After three years in Europe playing in Germany and Finland, you decided to come back to the States last season to play for the Connecticut TopBallerz (ABA). Why did you decide to make this move?

After three years overseas what made me come back to the states and play?? It was basically trial and error, the offers that was put on the table was really at a all time low, that was a period when the NBA lockout was in effect, and I thought it trickled down. When I realized it was getting late I decided to either try the developmental league which I end up not doing due to complications, or something to stay in shape until a good deal surfaced.
I was fortunate to be a part of a solid ABA organization in ctb top ballerz, they was able to present the same options that a team in Europe could with housing/pay / games/film so I opted to stay in the U.S.

What kind of experience of playing in the ABA? What was your wakeup call to playing in the ABA?

 

The experience playing in the ABA it has it’s very own lane honest speaking. You have teams that can’t afford the budget so they fold, so therefore you have to make up a game, level of competition is solid because you have guys that played overseas or has the talent to, but for whatever reason they not. It was very humbling but it made me realize that my game is suited for the the Europe competition I like to be professional all the way around. The organization I was apart of tried to uphold that image as much as possible that’s why we were successful by winning the northeast region and competing in the elite 8 against the other organizations that were well managed in the ABA.

If you had to compare the ABA to the PRO A in Germany, where would you see the differences in level of play and player talent?

 

If I had to compare the two, pro a vs the ABA? For starts it will be definitely professionalism, budget, the talent level is comparable because again you get guys that played all over, for instance on our roster starting out 2 nba d league players that was drafted also John Winchester out of Tennessee and other top Connecticut natives that was successful at some point. Those were just the players that was on my team, other squads would have guys that could play in PRO A. And be successful. But it’s no comparison to the style of play I’ll give that to the European style any day better organization, that is evident you get a lot more practice time and more of a team feel.

The Connecticut TopBallerz (ABA) had all sorts of players on the roster from NCAA2 and NCAA3 players to 39 year old Jeff Johnson. What kind of experience was it playing with these guys?

 

Yea there were a lot of roster changes, that made it hard to really get a chemistry and that team feeling but for the most part the guys who were close on the team stayed together, you need that to be cohesive as a unit, the family feel on the court, the I got your back feel!! Hahahah that was a roster error, my guy Jeff Johnson by the way who is a hell of a player and actually played a part in my game because he made me work my tail off in practice he is 28 years old, I don’t think a 39 year old would be able to hang with me right now lol

You are 27 now and coming into the best basketball age. You have matured a lot in the last years since our first interview in 2008. How have you matured as a player and how has your game progressed since your rookie year with USC Heidelberg?

 

 

Yes, I’m 27 now and like you said I’m coming to great playing age, body still feels 22 ish but my mental aspect has got a lot tougher that saying is true the game begins to slow down and you begin to be mentally tougher, along with your game. I’m blessed to be injury free, so hopefully I’m like wine as I age I get more polished

You are interested to coming back to Germany. You played for USC Heidelberg and BG Karlsruhe. Why should a PRO A team sign Japhet Mcneil for the 2012-2013 season? What are your most important assets?

 

My most important assets are my defense capabilities, and the versatility because I can dominate a game on the ball defensively but on the offensive end I m able to put pressure on the defense, with my quickness + dribbling ability + passing ability. This year I’m focused on sticking the 3 ball more often and constantly knocking down the in between jump shot. I have to add I’m very coachable I think that is so vital because if your the captain of the ship you have to follow out orders to be able to sail in your destination.

You played only seven games for BG Karlsruhe, but you were able to practice with German Rouven Roessler. What was the most amazing thing that you saw him do in a practice or game?

 

I did. I was a member of BG Karlsruhe, Rouven was very good and competitive that’s what I liked most about him, very quiet but a nice guy atl east towards me, that’s because I was a pass first point guard lol no but Rouv got some game with him. He would go on runs by himself, fadeaways, pull ups, really good player and you can’t forget about his athleticism for his age.

How does a summer work out day look like for Japhet Mcneil in 2012?

My work outs varies, I have a physical trainer, and basketball trainer. I try to create a balance schedule during the week that way the body doesn’t get beat down and I can continue to build. As far as free weights I’m not heavy with we do a lot of agility, body weight, flexibility, core work etc. On the basketball end we work on the entire arsenal. The entire “ARSONAL”

What is your goal for this season as a basketball player?

The goal that I set for this season for whichever club I’m apart of, I want to obviously play well and be healthy but the big picture my over all goal is to finish strong. I have to be able to start well, that’s never an issue it’s about finishing better than how you start, so that’s very important to me and something I m going to focus on.

What is your sweetest memory of a Japhet Mcniel to Jibril Hodges hook up on the court during the USC Heidelberg season?

) My greatest memory with my guy Jibril Hodges aside from off the court!!! It would have to be that alley oop I threw him against Schalke, phweeew that’s all time right there, it was then and it still is to this day (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmYGl5wqE8Y&sns=em) watch it in hq ohhhh baby!!

Which team would win a game in their prime, the Dream team or Team USA 2012?

I’m going to go with team USA 2012-2013, the dream team would have match up problems. We forget this years Olympic team has 3 or 4 players legit that are going to be top 5 all time greats surpassing players like Chris Mullin and Christian Laettner etc. the dream team top guns are MJ, Scottie, Magic, Bird, a young Shaq, Ewing etc. 2012-2013 Olympic team consist of Kevin Durant a matchup problem, Kobe all time great, Lebron all time great, Chris Paul will go down as one of the top pg to ever lace em if he stays healthy same opinion with Deron Williams, Carmelo Anthony all time great as well etc. I think it’s a toss up argument but at the end of the day it comes downs to match ups.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

 

The last DVD I saw lately, I ran out and I had to grab the classic movie “top shottas” one of my all time gangster films!!

 

Thanks Japhet for the chat.

 

 

 

 

Japhet Mcneil is a 27 year old 183 cm guard from Brooklyn, New York. He played at East Carolina from 2003 -2006. He then transferred to Bridgeport(NCAA2) for his senior year in 2006-2007. At Bridgeport, he played 31 games averaging 16.6ppg, 4.0rpg, 4.9apg, 4.0spg, FT: 67.3%, FGP: 38.3%, 3PT: 34.6%. In 2008-2009, he played his rookie season in Germany in the PRO A for USC Heidelberg playing 30 games and averaging 14.8ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-1(7.9apg), Steals-1(3.5spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 24.1%, FT: 63.3%. In 2009-2010, he played in Finland for Kori-Konkarit Loimaa (Finland-1st Division, starting five): 5 games: 9.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.8apg, 3.4spg, FGP: 35.0%, 3PT: 19.0%, FT: 50.0%. In 2010-2011, he played for BG Karlsruhe (Germany-ProA): 3 games: 4.0ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.7apg. Last season he played for the Connecticut TopBallerz (ABA) and this summer took part at the EuroDraft Camp in Schwechat (Austria): Cronus team: 4 games: 5.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.3apg, 1.0spg and the Blacktop Showcase (Team Finland B4) He spoke to German Hoops about Basketball and life.

Japhet thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. We are in the middle of summer. Where are you presently and how have you enjoyed your summer the best away from the court?

Hey Miles, thanks for having me its always a pleasure and fun. Yea we are in mid summer, I’m actually in NYC that’s home sweet home for me. It’s been a good summer thus far, I was able to attend some exposure events and participate in some individuals to stay at surface and get my game evaluated by scouts. So I wasn’t away from the courts this summer, I went to Austria Vienna and attended the euro draft event, that was great I thought I played well and showed a good floor game from the pg perspective and in a camp setting with playing equal minutes and in increments, I did some networking met some good players and enjoyed Vienna at this point. I’m still waiting on some good feedback I got from the camp along with the exposure event that was in NYC black top mng same settings I attended that as well, I invested in my career rather than the nyc streetball this summer.

You had a very strong rookie season with USC Heidelberg in 2008-2009 playing 30 games: 14.8ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-1(7.9apg), Steals-1(3.5spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 24.1%, FT: 63.3%., Are you a bit disappointed that you weren´t able to get a job in the Beko BBL the next season?

Yes indeed, that was a solid campaign for USC Heidelberg my rookie season. Its sort of weird but I am a tough critic toward myself and I say to myself that was a sub par year individually because I was so new to the experience, but I’d like to see myself when I am at a comfort level, Your level rises. That’s where I’m pretty much at right now with my game, trying to play at a high comfort level. The BBL teams didn’t make any concrete attempts at me, disappointing yes but motivational at the same time. That following year I took the offer in Cyprus, but it didn’t work out tough country but great experience.

After three years in Europe playing in Germany and Finland, you decided to come back to the States last season to play for the Connecticut TopBallerz (ABA). Why did you decide to make this move?

After three years overseas what made me come back to the states and play?? It was basically trial and error, the offers that was put on the table was really at a all time low, that was a period when the NBA lockout was in effect, and I thought it trickled down. When I realized it was getting late I decided to either try the developmental league which I end up not doing due to complications, or something to stay in shape until a good deal surfaced. I was fortunate to be a part of a solid ABA organization in ctb top ballerz, they was able to present the same options that a team in Europe could with housing/pay / games/film so I opted to stay in the U.S.

What kind of experience of playing in the ABA? What was your wakeup call to playing in the ABA?

The experience playing in the ABA it has it’s very own lane honest speaking. You have teams that can’t afford the budget so they fold, so therefore you have to make up a game, level of competition is solid because you have guys that played overseas or has the talent to, but for whatever reason they not. It was very humbling but it made me realize that my game is suited for the the Europe competition I like to be professional all the way around. The organization I was apart of tried to uphold that image as much as possible that’s why we were successful by winning the northeast region and competing in the elite 8 against the other organizations that were well managed in the ABA.

If you had to compare the ABA to the PRO A in Germany, where would you see the differences in level of play and player talent?

If I had to compare the two, pro a vs the ABA? For starts it will be definitely professionalism, budget, the talent level is comparable because again you get guys that played all over, for instance on our roster starting out 2 nba d league players that was drafted also John Winchester out of Tennessee and other top Connecticut natives that was successful at some point. Those were just the players that was on my team, other squads would have guys that could play in PRO A. And be successful. But it’s no comparison to the style of play I’ll give that to the European style any day better organization, that is evident you get a lot more practice time and more of a team feel.

The Connecticut TopBallerz (ABA) had all sorts of players on the roster from NCAA2 and NCAA3 players to 39 year old Jeff Johnson. What kind of experience was it playing with these guys?

Yea there were a lot of roster changes, that made it hard to really get a chemistry and that team feeling but for the most part the guys who were close on the team stayed together, you need that to be cohesive as a unit, the family feel on the court, the I got your back feel!! Hahahah that was a roster error, my guy Jeff Johnson by the way who is a hell of a player and actually played a part in my game because he made me work my tail off in practice he is 28 years old, I don’t think a 39 year old would be able to hang with me right now lol

You are 27 now and coming into the best basketball age. You have matured a lot in the last years since our first interview in 2008. How have you matured as a player and how has your game progressed since your rookie year with USC Heidelberg?

Yes, I’m 27 now and like you said I’m coming to great playing age, body still feels 22 ish but my mental aspect has got a lot tougher that saying is true the game begins to slow down and you begin to be mentally tougher, along with your game. I’m blessed to be injury free, so hopefully I’m like wine as I age I get more polished

You are interested to coming back to Germany. You played for USC Heidelberg and BG Karlsruhe. Why should a PRO A team sign Japhet Mcneil for the 2012-2013 season? What are your most important assets?

My most important assets are my defense capabilities, and the versatility because I can dominate a game on the ball defensively but on the offensive end I m able to put pressure on the defense, with my quickness + dribbling ability + passing ability. This year I’m focused on sticking the 3 ball more often and constantly knocking down the in between jump shot. I have to add I’m very coachable I think that is so vital because if your the captain of the ship you have to follow out orders to be able to sail in your destination.

You played only seven games for BG Karlsruhe, but you were able to practice with German Rouven Roessler. What was the most amazing thing that you saw him do in a practice or game?

I did. I was a member of BG Karlsruhe, Rouven was very good and competitive that’s what I liked most about him, very quiet but a nice guy atl east towards me, that’s because I was a pass first point guard lol no but Rouv got some game with him. He would go on runs by himself, fadeaways, pull ups, really good player and you can’t forget about his athleticism for his age.

How does a summer work out day look like for Japhet Mcneil in 2012?

My work outs varies, I have a physical trainer, and basketball trainer. I try to create a balance schedule during the week that way the body doesn’t get beat down and I can continue to build. As far as free weights I’m not heavy with we do a lot of agility, body weight, flexibility, core work etc. On the basketball end we work on the entire arsenal. The entire “ARSONAL”

What is your goal for this season as a basketball player?

The goal that I set for this season for whichever club I’m apart of, I want to obviously play well and be healthy but the big picture my over all goal is to finish strong. I have to be able to start well, that’s never an issue it’s about finishing better than how you start, so that’s very important to me and something I m going to focus on.

What is your sweetest memory of a Japhet Mcniel to Jibril Hodges hook up on the court during the USC Heidelberg season?

) My greatest memory with my guy Jibril Hodges aside from off the court!!! It would have to be that alley oop I threw him against Schalke, phweeew that’s all time right there, it was then and it still is to this day (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmYGl5wqE8Y&sns=em) watch it in hq ohhhh baby!!

Which team would win a game in their prime, the Dream team or Team USA 2012?

I’m going to go with team USA 2012-2013, the dream team would have match up problems. We forget this years Olympic team has 3 or 4 players legit that are going to be top 5 all time greats surpassing players like Chris Mullin and Christian Laettner etc. the dream team top guns are MJ, Scottie, Magic, Bird, a young Shaq, Ewing etc. 2012-2013 Olympic team consist of Kevin Durant a matchup problem, Kobe all time great, Lebron all time great, Chris Paul will go down as one of the top pg to ever lace em if he stays healthy same opinion with Deron Williams, Carmelo Anthony all time great as well etc. I think it’s a toss up argument but at the end of the day it comes downs to match ups.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD I saw lately, I ran out and I had to grab the classic movie “top shottas” one of my all time gangster films!!

Thanks Japhet for the chat.

He may always have the distinction and label of having the same name as a certain 6 NBA champion from the Chicago Bulls, but the Beko BBL will always have sweet memories of Michael Jordan be it being his breathtaking buzzer beater win against the LTi Giessen 46ers as he was in full swing as fireman saving the Phoenix Hagen season, saving Giessen from going down in his last professional year in 2010-2011, his duels with Skyliner Pascal Roller on the court in the 2005 BBL playoffs, or In Italy a year later, his powerful halftime Tirade in Frankfurt which would have given Bobby Knight goose bumps in a Phoenix Hagen blow out loss which was featured in the German documentary Phoenix in der Asche, or just his trade mark wide gergarious smile which would have melted anyone. Last season, Michael Jordan sat out the season not getting the desired offer that he wanted and now it has been announced that the Philadelphia native will hang up his sneakers to start a career in coaching. Jordan will be an assistant coach for friend Matt Langel who played briefly in Germany for MBC and Brandt Hagen at Colgate who was a teammate with him in the NCAA with Pennsylvania.

As a player He could do it all! He understood the game and knew how it was played. When asked to get teammates involved he wiouldreduce his scoring output and add to his assist total. When asked to score, he could and would, without forcing the issue. At 183 cm he was extremely quick on his feet and combined with his fearless attitude he can drive an oponent crazy defending him full court, half court, over and through picks, or away from the ball. Of course his quickness was an asset on the offensive end also. But its combined with his experience and poise that made him so effective. He was a leader on the court who could score in many ways and had all the skills to make the players around him look better. He was a motivator, organizer, and director who got his teammates ready to play hard. He was extremely dangerous in the transition phase almost always making the right decision. He could go coast to coast, pull up for the shot, or find the right guy running the lanes. In the half court set, he also had many options to choose from. He was an excellent pick and roll player and was able to turn the corner and take it to the hole. When the defense cheated or switched he could hit the three or take a bigger guy one-on-one. In addition to his skills on both ends of the floor he always had the necessary desire and drive to win every game. He played with an intensity that fuels his teammates and the crowd alike. On the court Michael Jordan was the complete package at his position. With all these things that he slowly developed in the NCAA and as a professional, he was able to have avery healthy and successful basketball career. Jordan started his basketball career at Pennsylvania (NCAA) and was Ivy League Champion and Ivy Player of the Year in hiss enior year in 2000. In 2000, he started his professional basketball career and already experienced a lot as a rookie starting with : Besancon (France-ProA) was briefly with the Boston Celtics (NBA) and then was signed by Trenton Shooting Stars (IBL). After stints in Poland and Spain in 2001-2002, Jordan finally landed in Germany and played for TSV Quakenbruck. He helped lead the team to the Beko BBL in 2003 averaging 21.1 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 6.9 apg. He then helped teh Artland Dragons become a fixture in the top German league and already in his first season showed that he could play with the best as he averaged 17ppg, 4.0rpg, 6.9apg, 1.1spg, 3.4bpg. In the 2005-2006 season, he had to leave the club on account of a scuffle with Marko Bulic. He played shortly with BK Ventspil, but then was picked up by RheinEnergie Koln as he teamed up with Immanuel Mcelroy and NBA player Marcin Gortat helping them win the Beko BBL title. Jordan had made a name of himself by now and was very interesting for other teams. He got the chnace to play in Italy for Cantu. In Italy, he played against many of the top players in Europe and held his own leading the league in assists averaing 13.8ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-1(5.2apg), 2.0spg, 2FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 74.0%. Thenext season 2007-2008, he continued to make further basketball expereinces in Europe playing for : TEC Spirou Charleroi (Belgium-D1) and PAOK Marfin Thessaloniki (Greece). In his last three seasons, he returned back to Germany and played for the Brose Baskets Bamberg, Phoenix Hagen, Mitteldeutscher BC and the LTi Giessen 46ers. Jordan may have been a pest as a player, but was loved by the fans. German Hoops wishes Michael Jordan all the best for his future as a coach. Who knows one might see Jordan back in Germany one day.

Ekene Ibekwe is a 27 year old 206cm forward from Los Angeles that has the Nigerian and American citizenship. He is a long, lean dynamic post player with unlimited athletic potential, a talented shooter for his size who can take the ball to the basket and score in the post and a high-flying finisher and shot blocker. He played at Maryland from 2003-2007 winning the ACC tournament in 2004. He turned professional in 2007 and played for Gilboa/Afula/Migdal Haemek (Israel-Premier League), left in Feb.’08: 11games: 11.3 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 2Pts 61.1%, FGP 77%, next month moved to Besan쎧on Basket Comt쎩 Doubs (France-ProB, starting five): 8 games: 10.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.4spg, Blocks-2(1.6bpg), 2FGP: 50%, FT: 69.7%. In 2008-2009, he played for Mutlu Aku Selcuk Universitesi Konya (Turkey-TBL, starting five): 28 games: 18.6ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.8spg, Blocks-5(1.8bpg), FGP: 60.6%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 57.0%
2009: In May signed at Gigantes de Carolina (Puerto Rico-BSN): 9 games: 10.9ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.0apg, 2.3spg, 2.2bpg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 40.7%. In 2009-2010, he played for Kepez Bld Antalya (Turkey-TBL) in Jan.’10 signed at Genc Banvitliler (Turkey-TB2L, starting five): 10 games: 21.2ppg, 10.6rpg, 1.2apg, 2.2spg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 59.2%. After a short stint with the Artland Dragons in the 2010-2011 season, he came to BBC Bayreuth playing 49 Beko BBL games. Last season, he averaged 11,6ppg and 5,6rpg. He played at the World Championships in Japan -06: 6 games: 8.7ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 50.0%, FT: 33.3% . He spoke to German Hoops about basketball at the start of the summer.

A month after you finished the season, how much did you have a basketball in your hands?

Every day. I took a few days off, but other than that, I have been working out and getting ready for the next adventure.

What was the first thing that you did when you got off the plane in Los Angeles?

I went home and gave my mom a hug.

American players usually like to go eat somewhere when they return home. Where was the first place that you went to eat?

Rosco´s chicken and waffle a famous place here in Los Angeles.

You finished your second season with BBC Bayreuth. The club finished with a 12-22 record. What was your season summary?

It was a tough season for us, but it was the best record the team has had in a long time. The season could have been better, but we had many injuries and I am happy that I was able to play for the beautiful city of Bayreuth.

After losing the first four games, the team replaced Andreas Wagner with Marco Van Den Berg. Why was the team able to play better?

He was a new coach and there were two different styles. I think that his style shock up opponents as they didn´t know what to adjust and it was harder for them to adjust to the new style.

After the big win at home against Alba Berlin, the team finished 4-12. Why did the team end the season on this note?

Thats basketball. We had tough injuries. We always fought hard and just tried to make the best of the situation. Our goal was always to play as good as we could and just be aggressive. Getting Danny Gibson was very important for jump setting our offense.

What do you remember the most about the spectacular win at home against Bremerhaven?

I don´t really remember that much, except that it was exciting and our fans were as loud as always.

Who was the most improved player on the team?

I saw the most improvement with German Stefan Schmidt. It was too bad that he went down with a shoulder injury at the end of the season.

How satisfied were you with your season of 11,6ppg, 5,6rpg and 22 times scoring in double figures?

I wasn´t as satisfied. One can always play better. I just tried to play as best as I could and do my role.

How did Brandon Hunter make you laugh?

People think he is serious, but he is a lot funnier than people think. It was good having an experienced player like him on the team. He has so much experience having played in the NBA, and Eurocup and I learned a lot from him. He was like a teacher when a coach wasn´t there.

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

People see me as a defensive presence and guy that can block shots. However my low post game and outside shooting have gotten better. I just want to continue to work hard and become the complete player that I want to become.

What is your favorite place in Bayreuth?

Just being in my living room and playing video games.

What was your childhood like?

I grew up in Los Angeles. I played a lot of basketball, baseball and football. I had a lot of fun.

Who were your basketball idols as a kid?

My favorite player was Magic Johnson. As I got older, I liked Kobe bryant and Kevin Garnett.

Why did you choose to go to Maryland(NCAA)?

I always liked the ACC and their style. I just wanted to experience playing against schools like Duke and North Carolina. The ACC was the best conference at the time.

How present was the legacy of Len Bias at Maryland?

Everybody knew about Len Bias there.

What was your nicest memory at Maryland?

Winning the ACC tournament against Duke in OT.

Who won a one on one game in practice, you or NBA draft pick James Gist?

We didn´t really play a lot of one on one. If we did, there would be a lot of dunks. It would be a very physical game and we wouldn´t allow any dunks actually. He would try to set fights, but he is a good friend of mine.

Do you like the basketball nomad life?

I just will go there where a team wants me and where I fit in best.

What is your summer schedule?

I will play summer league with the Portland Trailblazers and play with the Nigerian national team in August to prepare for the Summer Olympics.

You have played in Israel, Turkey and Germany. In what country would you like to play in where you haven´t played yet?

I had fun in all places, but I felt most comfortable in Germany.

What do you remember most from the 2006 World Championships in Japan?

It was a great experience playing against so much top competition and I was so young at the time just 21 and still at Maryland. I want to thank God for this opportunity. The fans were very supportive.

Who was the best player that you played against at the World Championships in 2006?

Dirk Nowitzki. Germany beat us with a buzzer beater.

How does a work out day look like in the summer?

I get up at 8:00am and do drill work in the gym. Then I go and get something to eat. In my second work out, I do court work and weight lifting. I play pick up games against guys like Dorell Wright, Trevor Ariza and Bobby Brown.

What do you still need to improve on your game?

I can improve on all parts wit my shooting range, ball handling and court awareness.

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

30.

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

I made a half court shot last season, but it didn´t count.

What was the last DVD that you?

The Dictator.

Thanks for the chat Ekene

Konstantin Klein is a 21 year old 185cm guard from Berlin that will be playing is first season for the Fraport Skyliners. He started his basketball career with ALBA Berlin II (Regionalliga) where he played until 2011. Last season he played for BiG Oettinger Rockets Gotha (ProB, starting five): 28 games: 9.9ppg, 1.9rpg, 3.7apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 73.2%. Awards and achievements in his career have been German U18 National Team -09, Nike Euroleague Junior Tournament (Unofficial European Clubs Junior Championships) -09, European Championships U18 in Metz (France) -09: 6 games: 0.7ppg, 1.7rpg, German Regionalliga (North Group) Champion -10
German U20 National Team -11, European Championships U20 in Bilbao (Spain) -11: 9 games: 3.6ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.0apg, German 2.Bundesliga Pro B (Group South) Regular Season Champion -12, and German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Champion -12. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Welcome to the Fraport Skyliners. How happy are you about joining this organization?

I am very happy that they have given me this chance.

How did the contact come to the Fraport Skyliners?

My agent Jan Rhodewald got the contact after Klaus Perwas had noticed my play.

What were the main reasons for coming to the Fraport Skyliners?

The city was important. I am from a big city Berlin and being in Frankfurt is a plus. Also the chance to play with the Beko BBL team each day was important. I also like the orgnaizationa nd my grandmother lives in the area.

What are your goals with the Fraport Skyliners?

To be successful with the PRO B team and fight for the playoffs. I also want to work hard and become a Beko BBL player one day.

What do you know about your new coach Eric Detlef?

I remember playing against him twice last season with Gotha. I spent a day with him in Frankfurt. I am happy that he is the new coach?

Detlef said that you have the ability to make your teammates better. Where did you get this ability?

That is a big compliment from him. It is my job as a point guard to make my teammates better.

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

My defense and my never give up mentality.

If you could ask Pascal Roller one thing about being a point guard, what would you ask him?

I would ask him for advice on defense and just about observing the little things on the court.

How were you able to develop further as a player with Gotha?

I think just being able to get minutes and the trust from coach Marko Simic was important. Playing 30 minutes as a 20 year old was important. I think I was able to take more responsibility and just playing with talented players helped me.

How did Marko Simic help you on the court most?

When I cam from Alba Berlin 2, there were so many things that I wasn´t aware of on the court like how to make adjustments on defense, but he showed me how to do it. He had a lot of trust in me and let me play.

Who would win a one on one in practice, you or Kevin Schaffartzik?

We never really played.

How did you start with basketball.

I played soccer until I was 10 years old, but I wasn´t amused how parents would show up at games at 9am with beer cans. I then played street ball and soon after organized basketball.

Who were your basketball idols as a kid?

Magic Johnson and Allen Iverson.

Why didn´t you complete the Alba Berlin route?

I liked playing there and won a NBBL title in 2010, but I guess they weren´t totally convinced of my play.

What did you learn at age 17 from head coach Henrik Rodl?

He let me play right away giving me 20-25 minutes and in my second season, I was the starting point guard. He gave me a lot of trust.

Did you ever think that Nils Giffey would win an NCAA title in 2008 when you were teammates?

No I didn´t but I am happy for him. We were roommates at the u-20 European championships. We are good friends and I hope that he get more minutes next season.

How much potential does your ex teammate Malte Ziegenhagen have as a player?

His best asset is his shooting from all over the court. He is a fighter and can defend well. He will make his way.

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

I never really have counted, but I once made 100 out of 104 shots.

What has been your most crazy shot in your career?

I hit a game winning three pointer and some free throws at the end to win games.

You have been working out at the Lumani summer camp. What kind of experience has that been?

It has been tough. I really felt pain after the first few days. I am working hard. There are many players here like Maik Zirbes, Oskar Fassler, Philipp Zwiener and Kevin Schaffartzik.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The Departed on a flight from New York.

Thanks Konstantin for the chat.

Eric Detlev is in his first season as head coach of the Fraport Skyliners(PRO B) team as well as assistant coach for the Fraport Skyliners(Beko BBL). He was 11 years with the Soba Dragons Rhondorf and last three years as head coach helping the team reach the PRO A in 2010. Awards/Achievements in his coaching career have been Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Coach of the Year 2010 and German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Champion -10. He spoke to German Hoopsabout basketball recently.

Welcome to the Fraport Skyliners. How happy are you being a part of the Skyliner family?

I am very happy to be here and be a part of the family.

Did ex Skyliner PRO B player Chris Rojik influence you a bit on making your decision since you coached him for many years at Rohndorf?

I did speak to Chris about coming here, but the contact has broken off a bit because he is back in the States. So he didn´t really have so much an influence in me making this decision.

You were 11 years with the Soba Dragons Rhondorf. How did the contact come about with the Fraport Skyliners?

I had spoken to Gunnar Wobke about a year ago about me coming to the Skyliners, but it didn´t happen because I had signed a contract with Rhondorf.

On what things are you looking most forward to with your new challenge with the Fraport Skyliners?

There are really two main factors about what I am most looking forward to. First being able to be with young players and help them develop further and second to be able to work with Muli Katzurin and be able to learn new things from him.

What will be your biggest challenge with the Fraport Skyliners?

My biggest challenge will be coordinating everything between the JBBL, NBBL, Eintracht and PRO B players. Also helping PRO B players make the possible jump to the Beko BBL team. Danilo Barthel made the jump last season.

What will be the goal of the PRO B Fraport Skyliners juniors this season?

Being able to stay in the PRO B. The biggest difference to Rhondorf is that there I had the first team and all players, but now I have the second team and might not always have all players for practice.

What is your biggest strength as a head coach?

My biggest strength is talking with all the players. It is most important that no matter what the situation is that you can create a identity in the team and try to teach the players to get integrated into the team.

You were 11 years in Rhondorf and head coach the last three years. How were you able to develop as a coach?

I think it was important that I saw all aspects. I was head coach, assistant coach under guys like Klaus Perwass and Olaf Stolz, athletic coach and youth coach. I learned so much and really all things that a coach needs to know.

What is a strength that doesn´t always get noticed in your style?

My ability how to work with the players. I am more a teacher than a general. I try to make young players better by being a teacher.

Who was the best player that you coached?

Chris Rojik was one of the best and really made a name in the second league. Others good players that I coached was Jonas Wolfarth-Bottermann and point guard Nick Larsen.

How much of a joy was it seeing Fabian Thulig and Jonas Wolfarth-Bottermann?

It was a lot of fun helping them make the next step and giving them confidence and trust and just watching them improve.

You coached American Deandre Spraggins. Why isn´t a guy like him playing now? Did he retire?

I don´t have too much contact with him anymore. I think that he just didn´t find his way anymore and maybe didn´t get as many offers anymore. He has a tough character. In the first year in Rhondorf it was ok, but he was just a tough character guy.

How many players do you know that have played in the PRO B, but have Beko BBL calibur? A Josh Young had no problems making the transition from PRO B to BEKO BBL.

There surely are some guys that could make it. Especially young Germans always have the potential to make it. Gotha had some strong Americans this season that had that potential to make the next step.

How does the Fraport Skyliners PRO Team roster shaping up for next season?

We want to keep all our German players. We will look for our Americans later in the process. We would like to keep guys like Larry Wright and Demetrius Jemison, but it depends if they want to stay.

Can Konstantin Klein make the next step?

He started his career in the Alba Berlin youth program and helped Gotha reach the PRO A last season. He is a very versatile point guard with a good attitude. He plays for his teammates. He might not score much, but that isn´t necessarily what we are looking for first in a point guard. He has a good character and will make the team better.

What was your first impression of Muli Katzurin?

My first impression was that he is a very serious guy that is very professional. For him, the small things are very important. I will learn a lot from him.

What are your hobbies?

I like to be outdoors in the mountains and like to read.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I can´t remember. I watch many player DVD´s.

Thanks Eric for the chat