London Warren is a 24 year old 183cm guard from Jacksonville, Florida. He played college ball at Dayton from 2006-2010 and in his senior year played 37 games: 4.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 4.1apg, 1.2spg. He was a rookie in 2010-2011 and played for the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf (Germany-1.Bundesliga), waived in Nov.’10: 2 games: 4.0ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg. Last season, he coached at Georgia Tech. He is ready to play overseas again and spoke to German Hoops about basketball and his ex teammate Brian Roberts. Check out sweet game highlights from London Warren at http://youtu.be/-VuslbWUfJU

London how have your summer work outs been going so far? The summer isn´t getting any younger. August is around the corner. Does the nervousness get stronger with every new day and no new contract with a team?

My summer workouts have been going great working out with professional basketball players on the daily such as Jamon Gordon Lucas, Derwin Kitchen and Juwann James. All three played at a very high level last season in Europe. They push me and motivate me to work hard so its been a good summer. Yes it be very nerve wrecking to wake up as an unsigned player. That’s what the agent is there for there I know I have to be patient its not just going to happen over night its a process. I just take care of what I can take care of which is getting in the gym everyday and putting the right foods and fluids in my body.

How does your conditioning look like on Mondays, Wednesday and Friday? What are the best conditioning drills for basketball players from your experience?

My conditioning workouts consists of the same thing I change it up sometimes but for the most part I just do 8x 200 meters on the track or I do 3x 800meters. I think the best condioning workouts for me personally come on the track but that’s just my opinion.

You put up 300 shots every afternoon. What were the most shots that you hit in 300 attempts?

Well one day I made 230 out of 300 and that was a great shooting day for me.

Your highlight video looks very spectacular. Your coast to coast runs are nice to look at. Which NBA player amazed you most with their fast break coast to coast runs?

People say my game reminds them of Rondo the way we always looking to get our teammates involved but still can score the ball at the same time. I admire the way Rondo pushes the ball and also Westbrook those 2 point guards amaze me the most in transition.

You played two seasons with Bamberg guard Brian Roberts. Did you know at Dayton, that he would have such a strong European basketball career so quickly?

Brian Roberts is a great player and his smarts and professionalism towards the game you knew he would be an instant success once he got an chance to showcase his talents at a high level. I learned a lot in my 2 season from Brian Roberts off and on the court and wish him the best in this upcoming season.

Presently Brian Roberts is playing with the New Orleans Hornets summer league team. He has had a good camp averaging 13,3ppg, 2,0rpg, 1,7apg, 52% fgp and 42%3pg. How proud are you of his play in this camp?

I am very proud of Brian Roberts play in summer play just to sit and watch him and a few other of my college teammates play at such a high level is a great honor. I also have former teammates Chris Wright, Chris Johnson, and Devin Searcy playing in the NBA summer league.

The Hornets Have many talented guards like Marco Bellinelli, Eric Gordon, Jerome Dyson, Austin Rivers. How do you see his chances of making this team?
Well if I was the GM, I would sign him but I am not the GM and don’t really know anything about the free agent field so I can make an comment on that question.

A big quality of Brian Roberts is his killer instinct on the court. What fascinated you most about his game at Dayton?

The way he scored the ball so effective, always shooting great percentages from the field and not needing a lot of shots to get a lot of points. He could score 25 points without taking double digit field goals which is hard.

What was the most incredible thing that you saw Brian Roberts do on the court?

It had to be his senior year he had the best month of December of any player in the country. Dropping 30 on the likes of Louisville and Pittsburgh both teams were ranked in the top 10 at the time and we won both games. It was a great honor to play alone side a great guard like Brian Roberts.

The USA Olympic team has so many superstars. Who will be the teams MVP?

Kobe end of conversation!!!

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I watched Next Friday earlier today

Thanks London for the chat.

acob Burtschi is a 28 year old 198cm forward from Chickasha, Oklahoma who is recently completed his first season with the Fraport Skyliners and will be playing for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven in 2012-2013. He played at Air Force from 2003-2007 and in his senior year, he played 35 games averaging 13.5ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 49.7%, 3Pts: 39.0%, FT: 77.3%. He had offers to play in the NBA, but served in the Air Force the last three years and could only play club ball. He played for Phoenix Hagen as a rookie 14.2ppg,6.9rpg,2.5apg,Steals-3(1.5spg),FGP:56.0%,3PT:44.2%,FT:82.2%. Some achievements that he got in the NCAA were All-MWC Honorable Mention -05, MWC Regular Season Runner-Up -06, All-MWC 2nd Team -06, 07, NABC All-NCAA District 13 2nd Team -07, and NIT Final Four -07. He spoke to German Hoops about his decision to play for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven.

Jake thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. You are already into your third month of summer. What has been your most memorable summer experience in 2012?

I just returned from a few days at Lake Lanier with some buddies in the Air Force for the 4th of July and right after that I spent a week with my family at the lake. Always good to get quality time with friends and family.

Despite all the disappointment after the do or die loss in Bonn in the last game of the season, I had a feeling that you weren´t going to come back. How sure were you at the start of May that you might not be wearing a Fraport Skyliners uniform next season?

I love Frankfurt. They were one of the teams at the top of my list to return to.

As Jon Leuer left for the NBA, the Fraport Skyliners were in 17th place, but as soon as you arrived the team turned it around. What was the most important thing that you took out of your 5 month stint with the Fraport Skyliners?

Anything can happen. we let a few games slip away from us where we could have easily finished 6th or 7th. There was a lot of basketball left to be played and we took full advantage of it.

You never played a single game in a Skyliner uniform with Justin Gray, but you guys maintained a special friendship. What will you always remember from the Charlotte native?

Justin is a funny dude. Listening to his stories had me laughing so hard. but also his family his wife Julie and son JJ. A very loving family.

You will be playing for your fourth team in three years. Is Jacob Burtschi on the verge of a Basketball nomad life?

Haha I guess so. Hopefully down the road somewhere I will get more than a one year deal, but I still have to prove a lot of things on the court to deserve one of those contracts.

Basketball remains a business. How much was money a factor for you choosing the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven against the Fraport Skyliners?

Money wasnt the biggest issue. Unfortunately it was just security over the timing of the contract.

How excited are you about going to the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven? Doug Spradley thinks highly about your basketball abilities. What are you expecting from your season in Bremerhaven?

I am very excited. Bremerhaven has always been in the playoff mix and I have never made the playoffs before. Coach Spradley is a good coach and I have heard a lot of good things. I expect us to be in the playoff hunt and see what happens from there.

You were the ultimate team basketball player for the Fraport Skyliners. After experience in the ACB and in Frankfurt, how was your game able to improve from your rookie season with Phoenix Hagen?

Well in Hagen I was needed for more scoring and other things. In Frankfurt we had guys who could do all that so I was mainly a glue guy. However if I can help a team win, ill do it.

You still have about 6 weeks before reporting to the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. How does a typical Jacob Burtschi basketball work out day look like in the summer of 2012?

Usually I spend 60-90 minutes in the morning doing basketball drills. Then I play pick up with guys like Josh Young and a handful of other overseas guys for a little over an hour. Then in the evening time I have a 90 minute training session which includes lifting, agilities, and stretching.

Who could forget your four dives you displayed in Trier in the first quarter. If you had to choose from diving on the ice in Bremerhaven to save the Eisbaeren mascot, Paris Hilton or Lebron James who promised reward money, who would you save?

Well it depends on how thick the ice was, if Paris was single at the time, and how much money Lebron was offering.

Will Team USA have a cake walk at winning the Gold medal in London?

It definitely will not be a cake walk, but they should win gold.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

50/50

Thanks Jake For the chat.

Vaughn Duggins is a 24 year old 190cm guard from Pendelton, Indiana that will be starting his second season in the Beko BBL with the Walter Tigers Tuebingen. He played at Wright State from 2006-2011 including his freshman year with 2011 Beko BBLMVP Dashaun Wood. In his senior season, the American played 33 games: 18.0ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 82.2%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have beenHorizon League Regular Season Runner-Up -07, 10, Horizon League Tournament Winner -07, Horizon League All-Newcomer Team -07, All-Horizon League 1st Team -08, 11, Horizon League Tournament Semifinals -09, Horizon League Tournament Finalist -10, All-Horizon League 2nd Team -10, Horizon League All-Defensive Team -10,and NABC Division I All-District 12 2nd Team -10, 11. Last season with the Tigers, he averaged 13,0ppg, 3,0rpg and 2,0apg in 34 games. He shot 50% from the field and 41% from outside. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

What do you like to do when its hot in Indianapolis?

We have a pool so whenever I feel hot, I just jump in.

After your season for the Walter Tigers Tuebingen, what was the first thing that you did when you got to the States?

I went home and went to sleep for a long time. I also made the rounds getting food at my favorite places like a Burrito place and some steak houses.

Do you already miss something from Tuebingen?

I miss the people in Tuebingen and some of the families I got close with. I am more sad now than I ever would have thought.

The Walter Tigers Tuebingen finished the season in 12^th place with a record of 15-19. What is your season summary?

We started slow, but I am proud of the guys how we finished the season. Even though that we started 0-6, we never gave up and kept at it. We finished the season stronger than a lot of people thought.

If the team might have started 3-3, do you think the Tigers could have reached the playoffs?

Yes I think so. If we would have started 2-4 or 3-3 we might have played Alba Berlin or Bamberg in the first round.

The team got better as the season progressed. What was the biggest strength of head coach Igor Perovic?

He did a great job staying positive. He told us the season was long and the wins would come. We got good when we needed to get good. When other coaches might have gotten frustrated, he stayed calm.

What was your season highlight?

The win at home against FC Bayern Munich in front of a sold out crowd and also our first win in Bremerhaven of the season. I remember the guys jumping around in the locker room after as well as our coach.

Who was the most improved Tiger?

I think Adnan Hodzic and Josh Young. Hodzic started slow and needed some time to get used to the style, but he was consistent in second half of season and made the team better. Josh Young also improved a lot. Many thought that he wasn´t going to make it coming from PRO B, but he showed that he could play and was consistent.

Where does your good jumping ability come from? Were you born or did you work hard at getting that ability?

I think it is a combination of being gifted and working hard at it. My dad was a high jumper in high school and college. At college I also worked a lot at gaining explosiveness and just doing squats and jumping to get better at it.

Possibly the Tiger unsung hero was Reggie Redding. Where would you place him at his position in the Beko BBL?

I don´t even know what position he is. He is capable of playing 1-4. I will put him at #2 behind PJ Tucker. He was so value to us with his defense, passing and rebounding.

How were you able to improve your game?

I think that I can always improve my shooting and ball handling. I think that in my rookie season that I improved my decision making and thinking faster. I was able to make plays in my head before they actually happened. This will always get better with experience.

5 players are coming back next season. Is the goal the 2013 Beko BBL playoffs?

Yes that is our goal. We have a good core of guys coming back. The expectations will be higher in 2012-2013 so we will have to perform better.

What is the most important thing that you learned from head coach Igor Perovic?

I learned so much in the first month than ever before that. He enriched my basketball IQ through his multi tasking of my brain.

You grew up in Indiana. What was your childhood like?

I had much basketball and was really involved in any kind of sport. Every driveway in Indiana has a basket hoop.

Who were your NBA idols?

Michael Jordan and Reggie Miller. When I was growing up, the Pacers were very good. My dad also always told me about the great players from then like Julius Erving, Larry Bird and Magic Johnson and talked about their amazing plays. I started to watch their videos and what he said was true.

Did you ever visit French Lick?

I have never been there, but heard about many Larry Bird stories. You know what they say, if you blink, you might miss it.

What is your nicest memory with Dashaun Wood at Wright State?

Going to the NCAA tournament and beating Butler and winning the Horizon tournament. Holding up the trophy and ripping down the net will always be in my memory.

You were a freshman and Dashaun Wood a senior. Back then Wood beat you 9 out of 10 times at one on one. How would a game look like now?

I would get him in the post and he would get me with his quickness. It would be even now at 5-5 I think.

Dashaun Wood is a guy that plays with a lot of self confidence. Was it always like that already in college?

It all has to do with mentality. He already had a lot of self confidence at Wright State. He was a very good player his first three years, but the team wasn´t winning. Better players came his senior year and he really took off. And since then he has been so successful where ever he has played.

The Tigers lost both games against Alba Berlin. What always keeps amazing you about Dashaun Wood?

The fact that he keeps getting better. He was already very good as a freshman, but I never thought he would get this good. He dominated the league with Frankfurt and had very good teammates in Berlin. This is just a big tribute to his work ethic. I really look up to his game.

Will the early playoff loss to Wurzburg make Dashaun Wood stronger for next season?

I think it will. He is home now and angry. He wants to bring a title to Berlin. He will want to be even a better leader next season and try to bring Alba Berlin to the Bamberg level. You can never count out Dashaun Wood.

What NBA player amazes you the most on offense?

Kobe Bryant has been in the NBA so long and he has evolved his game that he can still get better at other parts of his game. He may have lost his explosiveness and athletic ability, but now has improved at changing speeds and his footwork. And with that is still dominating the game.

What does your summer workout plan look like?

I will work on my ball handling as I would also like to play some position one. I also will work on my shooting. I will work on my fitness and also be in the weight room. I will return to Tuebingen bigger and in better shape.

What is something that you would like to do in the summer that you haven´t done in a long time?

When I returned from Tuebingen I went to Florida and relaxed. I really enjoy music and will want to check out some concerts this summer.

What do you like most about Tuebingen?

I really like the scenary and I think that the south is prettier than the north.I like seeing the mountains and castles. Tuebingen is fun and not too small or too big.

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

I made 103 at Tuebingen in practice. After I made 50 in a row I kept going. When I hit 103, Igor Perovic told me to change baskets and then I missed my very first shot. I was made with him for about a week and a half.

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

It was my freshman year against future NBA players Greg Oden and Mike Conley. It was a ¾ shot right before the en dof the first quarter to cut the score to 12-9. That was about s close as we got. We lost 72-43.

What is your favorite place in Indianapolis?

I like being anywhere, but mostly like being near the Indy 500 race track where friends of mine live.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Takers with Paul Walker.

Thanks Vaughn for the chat.

Abe Lodwick is a 200cm swing man from Bend, Oregon that is starting his professional basketball career in the Beko BBL with Phoenix Hagen. He played at Washington State from 2007-2012 and some time with ex Beko BBL players Taylor Rochestie and Aron Baynes. In his senior year, he played 21 games: 5.2ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 23.5%, 3PT: 45.1%, FT: 66.7%. He played a total of 105 NCAA games and some Awards/Achievements in his basketball career were Pac-10 Tournament Semifinals -08, NCAA Sweet 16 -08, Pac-10 All-Academic 2nd Team -10, and NIT Final Four -11. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Congrats on your first professional contract with Phoenix Hagen. How happy are you about getting this chance?
I am very excited and thankful for this opportunity to play for Phoenix Hagen. It has been my dream since I was young to play professionally and I hope this will be the beginning of good career overseas.

How much of a combination was it of Abe Lodwick the basketball player and your agent getting this deal done?
My agent knew I wanted to be in or around Germany. From that point on he did a great job of getting my name out there to people he knew and getting me exposure. He was the one who communicated with Phoenix Hagen and got the deal done.

Do you feel some pressure about having to go through a month type try out when you arrive in August?
I definitely want to put my best foot forward when I get there but I don’t feel any pressure. I can only really worry about things I can control so I will work hard and do what I need to do to be successful.

Were you able to talk to your ex teammates at Washington State Taylor Rochestie and Aron Baynes who have had experience playing in Germany?
I talk to Taylor all the time. He has been very helpful in telling me who to talk to and what to expect. He’s very excited that I will be in Europe with him, especially in the league he started out in. Baynes is a little more busy with the Olympics right now playing for Australia so I haven’t talked to him as much.

What do you know about the German league Beko BBL?
I know this league is very strong with great competition so to be a part of that is exciting. It will make me improve my game which I look forward to. I am trying to learn as much as I can about the team and league so I have a decent idea of what to expect, but I also know I will have to wait and experience things for myself.

You penetrate very well to the hoop and shot 45% from outside in your senior year. What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t always get noticed?
My defense is something I take a lot of pride in. It bothers me when my man scores and I think it is invaluable to have players who lock up on defense. I know Phoenix Hagen likes to run and shoot, so I am hoping my defense will stand-out at times and help us.

You are a 200cm forward swingman. It is still unclear if you will be the power forward for Phoenix Hagen. Are you more comfortable at the three or four position?
I am comfortable at both. This summer I have been working a lot on my handle and penetrating to prepare for playing some three but I have played the stretch four the last few years in college and it is something I am very comfortable with. I want to play wherever it will help our team win games.

What is your most vivid memory from your three block game against UCLA?
Playing against a team like UCLA is always a battle so waking up the next day feeling beat-up is something I will always remember. They were a physical team and so were we and our games always seemed to go down to the wire.

What is the most amazing thing that you saw Taylor Rocestie do on the court at Washington State when you played with him?
Without a doubt it was when he hit the game-winning three pointer as time was winding down on Senior Night at WSU. We were playing against James Harden and Arizona State who was ranked 15th in the nation at the time. Taylor caught the ball, jab-stepped, then launched a deep three that was nothing but net with time winding down. They had one chance to win and missed, and we stormed the court. Amazing.

Who was the tougest player that you played against in the NCAA that might be in the NBA or Europe now?
Kevin Love may be the best player I’ve ever played against. He had amazing touch around the hoop but could also step out and knock down threes no problem. He was also big and strong enough to grab between 10 and 15 rebounds per game. Very well rounded.

How does a typical Abe Lodwick work out day look like these days? How are you getting prepared for Phoenix Hagen?
Usually I start my day at the gym with my trainer Daven Harmeling. He puts me through a pretty good workout for about an hour. We start with my touch around the rim, quick finishes, stuff like that. Then we move to set shots, stretching my range. Then we will combine moves with the ball and attacking the basket or pulling up for shots. I like to get moving and get some cardio in during my workout as well so a lot of drills are on the move. After that I go to the weight room and workout. Depending on the day I like to do full-body workouts and work on flexibility and core-strength.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?
The last movie I saw was Hot Tub Time Machine. It was not very good, I don’t recommend it. Looking forward to The Dark Knight Rises coming out this month.

Thanks Abe for the chat.

London Warren is a 24 year old 183cm guard from Jacksonville, Florida. He played college ball at Dayton from 2006-2010 and in his senior year played 37 games: 4.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 4.1apg, 1.2spg. He was a rookie in 2010-2011 and played for the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf (Germany-1.Bundesliga), waived in Nov.’10: 2 games: 4.0ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg. Last season, he coached at Georgia Tech. He is ready to play overseas again and spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

London thanks for taking some time to talk to eurobasket.com. Where are you presently and how is your basketball summer going?

Thanks for letting me talk to Eurobasket.com and I am currently located in Atlanta, Ga working out and getting ready for the upcoming season.

After a four year career at Dayton, you played in 2010-2011 for the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf, but sat out last season and coached at Georgia Tech. Why did you do this?

The reason for me sitting out last season was for me to pursue my Master’s Degree before I got too old and still studious. Plus it was a great opportunity for me to get on the other side of things and learn from a coach’s point of view and to get experience at a powerhouse ACC school such as Ga Tech. I can also put on my resume I coached division 1 basketball in the ACC at the age of 23. Not too many other people can say the same. I want to be a coach once my playing career is over so I have some experience and will be ready once I retire from playing basketball

You are a young guy. How important was getting this coaching experience at a young age?

It was very important for me to get some coaching experience at a young age because I always wanted to be a coach. I am a coach on the court when I played because I am a point guard who has the ball in his hands a lot and runs the show. This just helped me mature as a person being the office from 9am -9pm everyday showed me that its way more to basketball than just making baskets. I enjoyed it and looking forward to getting back into the coaching business but later on down the road.

What was the most important thing that you learned from head coach Brian Gregory last season?

Well being that I played for coach Gregory at Dayton we already had a great relationship that’s why he asked me to come aboard with him to Ga Tech in his first season there. I learned a lot of coaching tips from him and I also that with hard work you can far in the world we live in today.

You also worked out with NBA players last season. How was this experience for you?

Yea by working at Ga Tech last summer during the lockout I got to work out with a lot of NBA players, such as Jarret Jack of the Hornets, Carmelo Anthony of the Knicks, Iman Shuppert Knicks, Wilson Chandler Nuggets and the lists continues. It just showed me that when you go to the gym you suppose to work on your weaknesses and not you strengths. Plus the way they workout the level of intensity and the focus they work with also helped me going forward.

How has the job search been so far. Have you noticed that it is more difficult finding a new basketball job after not having played for a season?

Yea it has been hard just because my name isn´t out there anymore but that’s why I am doing this interview to get some national exposure. I am willing to play at any level for any amounts of money just want to get back in the business. I know it’s not going to be easy but I will just do what I can control and that’s living in the gym working out and waiting to get a phone call or email with some good news.

What is your biggest strength as a player and why would this help any team in the world?

My ability to mange a game and run a team is probably my biggest strength. I am not about to go get you 20 points but I can stop the opposing team best player from getting his 20 points. I am a fearless defender who takes pride in defense I can easily be put on a team just to play defense and I will be fine with that duty.

You didn´t finish the season with Duesseldorf. What were the main reasons for not finishing the season there?

I think the biggest issue of me not finishing the season with the Gloria Giants was that we were losing when the season first started. Being that I got picked up for them 2 days before the first game of the season alone with 7 other new players. We never had time to get acquainted and learn each other weaknesses and strengths basically. I was on the team for longer than it says on my profile for the simple fact that I only appeared in two games I was there for the first 14 games of the season before being released. I was on the team practicing every day and getting paid but I was playing in the games because of Coach Murrat decision. I don’t think he had anything to do with my skills and talents just once he seen me play he wanted a veteran PG vs a rookie one which was out of my control.

Who would win a one on one in practice you or Deandre Haynes?

Deandre is a great player who I learned a lot from day in and day out on practice. Some days I could get the best of him in practice but we use to battle if out and I would push him to get better each and every day. We never played 1 on1 because that wouldn’t prove anything but if I had to play him 1 on 1 I would like my chances.

How does a summer basketball workout program look like for London Warren?

Monday- Friday 40 min skill workout in the AM then I go back and make 300 shots in the PM. Mon, Wed, Fri- weights and conditioning. Tuesday and Thursday- pickup basketball rather it be open gyms or men’s league games

What is your biggest basketball dream?

To win a professional championship because I have won a championship at every level except the pro level. Being in high school I won a state championship then I won the NIT Championship in 2010 defeating North Carolina in Madison Square Garden.

If you could describe yourself in a few sentences, how would you convince a coach that he has to sign you?

I am a high energy player who loves to win and will do whatever has to be done to win. What I do to help the team win sometimes doesn’t show up on the stat sheet but my presence on the court is always felt. Another key stat about me is in my four years of college I never missed a game due to injury. I played in 132 games out of 132 and won 96 of them both of them being records for the University of Dayton. I am always looking to get my teammates involved I am a great defender who made all confere3nce for defense 2 seasons in a row. I take pride in shutting down the opposing team best player. I can guard 1-3 easily. My national nickname is the “Jacksonville Jet” for my speed and quickness from end to the end with the ball in my hands. I am a great teammate who was the captain of my colligate team for 3 seasons in a row.

• Thanks London for the chat.

• Kelly Beidler is a 24 year old 199cm forward from Virginia Beach, Virginia that will start his third professional season and first in Germany in the Beko BBL for the Mitteldeutscher BC. He played at Mt.St.Mary’s (NCAA) from 2006-2010 playing a total of 119 NCAA games. In his senior year, he played 31 games: 10.7ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 74.1% . In 2010-2011, he was a rookie playing for : IR Reykjavik (Iceland-Express League, starting five): 24 games: Score-4(21.7ppg), Reb-2(12.4rpg), 3.8apg, Steals-5(2.5spg), Blocks-3(2.0bpg), FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 72.9%. Last season, he played for Karhu Kauhajoki (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five): 44 games: Score-4(19.2ppg), Reb-5(9.8rpg), 1.4apg, Steals-1(2.3spg), Blocks-1(1.9bpg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 70.8%. German Hoops gave him a welcome to the Beko BBL interview.

  Congrats on your signing with the Mitteldeutscher BC. What convinced you that going to this team was the right move?

  My agent and I talked it over. We understood we had options to choose from for this upcoming season. My agent want’s whats best for me and my career and he felt this was the right move. Also the BBL is a very well respected league.

  What do you know about the top German league Beko BBL? Are there any friends of yours playing here?

  I don’t know a lot about the BBL but I know that it’s tough competition and some of the best players in Europe play in this league. In order to be the best you have to beat the best. I don’t believe I know anyone personally in the league but I have heard of a few names. Corey Hassan and I played in the same conference in college.

  How excited are you about playing for MBC? What will be the first thing that you will do when you arrive on German soil?

  I’m thrilled to play for this ball club. Played against them last year in a tournament and remember them being a good team. First thing I’ll want to do is most likely meet my teammates. Not a whole lot of time until the season begins. Want to know about them as much as I can before the season starts.

  You are a very versatile player that can do just about all at 199cm. What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t always get noticed right away?

  My will and desire to win is big. Every time I step on the court I take on the challenge of being the best player and teammate. I take pride in defense and my offense comes second

  You never scored more than 10,9 ppg in a season in the NCAA. Was it a big adjustment having to be that first scoring option in Iceland and Finland?

  Not a big adjustment at all. The thing about my college team was that any of the starting 5 on my team could score 20. We played excellent team ball and all the pressure wasn’t on one man. I take on the challenge of being the leader on the court so scoring the ball was just a part of my game

  How would you compare the Finnish league to the NCAA? Was the NCAA level tougher?

  No disrespect to the Finnish league but yes NCAA was tougher. Wide range of skilled athletic players all with in the age group of 18-22 with the desire to win. No money involved, just passion for the game.

  The Beko BBL is at a higher level than what you saw the last two seasons. Do you feel a lot of pressure?

  No pressure at all. This is my job, something I’ve been doing since I was a little kid. I read books about some of the greats and they all say pretty much the same thing, “For people to remember your name you must step up to the plate and be ready when your number is called. This is my chance and I’m ready.

  What was the most important thing that you leraned from Milan Brown that got you ready for the professional level?

  Milan Brown is one of the smartest people I’ve met and always had wise words up to this day. I remember two things he would say, “To reach the highs, you have to experience the low” I didn’t feel like I belonged in Iceland but hey I did it and here I am and another was “every player is equal when stepping onto the court but when the lights turn on and it’s time to play ball, the best separate themselves from the pack”. That’s what I try to do every time i step on the court.

  Who won the majority of the one on one games in practice last season you or Casey Reed?

  ME OF COURSE!!!! but no, Casey Reed was a good player and better yet a great person. He definitely helped me improve my game and I hope I did the same. Great Friendship that will last hopefully forever

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

  Blake Griffin

  Would you rather have dinner with Kobe Bryant or Lebron James if you could only chose one and why?

  Lebron James

  What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

  The Dream Team Documentary

  Thanks Kelly for the chat.

Ismet Akpinar is a 17 year old 182cm point guard from Hamberg that recently completed his first season in the Pro B for SC Rist Wedel. He played 24 games averaging 5,9ppg, 1,5rpg and 2,3apg. He started his basketball career for : BC Hamburg Tigers junior team in 2009 and last year played for the Oberliga team. Last summer, he took part at the European Championships U16 in Czech Republic -11: 9 games: 13.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 63.9%He recently spoke to German Hoops about his season with SC Rist Wedel.

Many PRO B teams have 3-4 Americans but SC Rist Wedel only had two Americans. What made the team so special?

We were one team ans we did all together as a team. Nobody had egos and nobody played for stats. We won our games playing defense and that was one of the reasons why we made the playoffs.

How was the adjustment coming from the Oberliga to the PRO B?

It was a big jump, but my goal wasn´t to sit on the bench, but give gas from the start and always have energy and just do my thing.

You averaged 18,7 minutes per game. Would you have thought before the season that you would get so many minutes?

No I never would have thought that. I had to fight for every minute that I got. I am proud that my coach gave me so confidence in my play. The most important thing is to get playing time so I can keep improving.

What is the most important thing that you need to improve on your game now?

My decision making. It has to be quicker and better decisions. My shooting and penetration can be more stable.

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

My will and want to win games in crunch time. I always give 120-150% in clutch situations.

How is your relationship to coach Ozhan Gurel?

We have a very good relationship and it has been open from the start. I have known him many years and we just understand each other very well.

Your teammate Augie Johnston said that most players your age don´t have the right attitude and already think that they know everything. You always want to learn. Where does your positive attitude come from?

I have always had that attitude and it came from my parents and my big brother who plays in Turkey. My brother always wanted to get better so I felt the same way. I always want to be better and train as hard as I can to get better.

You are very self critical. Is that the difference between being a good and very good player?

Yes, I always need to work on my game. I am never good enough. The most important thing is to be consistent at a good level.

Augie Johnston said your game is similar to Jeremy Lin. How much did that flatter you?

It flattered me a lot when I read it at eurobasket. Lin is a great player.

How has the Linsanity effected you?

It has been amazing how he has risen. He scored 20 points and then hit 30 points on Kobe Bryant. If he continues to be consistent then he could become my favorite player.

In the playoff game against Nordlingen where you won the game with a buzzer beater, you looked like a Kobe Bryant taking a two step pull up fade away jumper. Don´t you feel pressure in these moments as a 16 year old?

I love these moments and always want the ball in my hand. I am just happy to have the ball in my hands. Some guys may be afraid to get the ball thinking that all will be mad if the shot is missed. I don´t think about what can happen, but just about making the shot and believing in myself.

How many floaters do you practice per day?

I love floaters. In the past, I worked more on them than now. Now I am concentrating more on my pull up jumper.

If you could ask Jeremy Linn one question what would you ask him?

How he was able to so quickly be successful in the NBA. I also would ask him how he handles all the hype.

How important has Fabian Bocke been for the team?

He is a giant under the basket. The lane might be free and you might think that you can shoot, but then all of a sudden, he is there and blocks the shot or changes the shot. You always have to be thinking what will I do when Bocke comes. I like playing on his team in practice. His mid range jumper is like a lay up.

Who would win a 1-1 you or Augie Johnston?

Augie would win. He is a great shooter with great touch. He plays good defense and rebounds well and is just an allrounder.

What was your childhood like?

It was nice. I grew up in Hamburg an din the summers we always visited my family in Turkey.

Who were your NBA idols as a kid?

My big brother and Tracy Mcgrady in his prime.

Who was your favorite German player.

Without a doubt Dirk Nowitzki.

How did you start playing basketball?

I started with 8 years. At that time, I had the choice between basketball and soccer. I always wanted to become a professional athlete. My big brother played a huge role. I saw what he did and wanted to follow him.

You started your basketball career at BC Hamburg. What was the most important thing that you learned in this time there?

I learned the basics of the game. I had three coaches and Andreas Nierhaus really showed me how to build up my game.

How much do you miss a Beko BBL team in Hamburg?

I miss it a lot. It is so sad that there is no team. There are so many potential good players, but if you are better than the PRO B, you have to leave Hamburg.

How tough is it combining, school, basketball and friends?

It is hard to combine all. I train twice a day and have away games as well. I do have a private life and spend time with friends. I just know what my principles are and basketball is #1.

What was your nicest memory of the European championships 2012 in the Czech Republic where Germany had an 8^th place?

Just playing at a top level and knowing you are at a tournament where you can become European champion. We won 4 games in a row and the emotions were amazing. The feeling to have played there was great.

Which player do you remember the most from the 2012 European championship?

The Spanish center who is 215cm. He blocked everything.

David Taylor is another very talented German form the year 1995. What do you like most about his game?

His speed. He is so fast from 0-100. When he gets a rebound, he uses the open court so well and already has scored a lay up before the defense can get back.

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

39

Your most crazy shot in a game?

A half court bank shot with my back turned.

What are your hobbies?

Relaxing, sleeping and play station.

If you could play for a Beko BBL team where would you like to play?

I would want to play for a team where I play. I would like to play for Alba Berlin.

Your favorite German point guard?

Heiko Schaffartzik and Per Guenter.

Your favorite international point guard?

Juan Carlos Navarro.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Ziemlich beste freunde.

Thanks Ismet for the chat.

Quentin Pryor is a 28 year old 193cm shooting guard/small forward from Eupora, Mississippi that recently completed his first season for Wels in Austria tat fell to Gmunden in the semi finals of the Playoffs. He started his college basketball career at Jackson State, before finishing at Morehead State from 2005-2007. In his senior year, he played 30 games averaging11.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3Pts: 36.8%, FT: 71.7%. In 2007, he started his professional basketball career in Germany with FC Schalke 04 playing 29 games and averaging 15.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.2apg, Steals-1(2.5spg), FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 75.2%. He played for Phoenix Hagen from 2008-2011 and in the 2008-2009 season, he played 30 games averaging 14.7ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 75.2. In 2009-2010 he played 33 games: 8.8ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 72.9%. In 2010-2011, he played 33 games averaging 11,3ppg, 3,5rpg, 2,2apg and 1,5spg. For Wels, he played 31 games: 14.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.7apg, Steals-4(1.9spg), FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.7% He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Recently you were in Prague. How did you like it?

I loved it, but I had to leave a little early, because my kid got sick.

Mission Impossible was filmed partly in Prague. It they would have asked you to have been in the film and asked you to jump off a bridge into the Moldau, would you have done it?

It would have depended on what time of year it was. I definately would have done it in summer.

You recently played your first season in Austria for Wels. How did you like the country?

The country is nice and very scenic. The Austrian league is a lot better than it gets credit for. It is a lot more competitive than I thought it would be.

The Austrian league isn´t as strong the Beko BBL. What is the league missing besides better quality players?

The teams have lesser budgets and the arena´s are a lot smaller more like PRO A gyms. The refs also need a crash course. They miss a lot. You can´t do a spin move here.

How was your role different than it was in Hagen?

I had the ball more in my hand this season. Coach Miller told me before the season that he would need my scoring, but defending is still a big part of my game.

How is Wels different than Hagen and vice-versa?

Wels has two malls something that Hagen didn´t have, but the city center in Hagen is more compact and bigger. I like both places.

You had four teammates that have played in Germany with Martin Kohlmaier, Joe Werner, Logan Stutz and Davor Lamesic. Were they able to make the transition easier for you?

Yes those guys helped me a lot telling me what to expect in Austria on and off the court.

21 year old 196cm forward Romed Vleider was named to the Austrian national team. How much potential does he have?

He has unlimited potential. He is so long and gets better every day. He told me that he hasn´t had a summer off in the last five years and his body is a bit banged up. He needs to find his confidence again.

How was your relationship with head coach Pete Miller who coached in Germany for many years?

I loved him. He has shown so much trust in me. He takes my input and uses it for the games. He is more of a players coach. He doesn´t yell much, but he will let you know what is right and wrong.

Who wins a one on one you or Todd Brown who has three centimeters on you?

I will have to go with me. I would attack him constantly and use my speed. He is quick to, but I think that I have the advantage.

Your teammate Joe Werner was on the Green Bay Packers roster in 2007. Have you met his body in practice a lot?

Every day I met his body. I knew who he was before the season, because in the game at Giessen, I got an elbow from him chipping my tooth.

How is the popularity of basketball in the Austrian media?

It isn´t as popular as I thought it would be, but its getting better. The players do get recognized in town.

Do you still keep in touch with your Hagen ex teammates like Bernd Kruel?

Yes I do. I talk to him on occasion seeing how each other is doing.

What was it like in the 2009-2010 season when filming was taking place for the documentary Phoenix in der asche? Was it hard to focus with so many cameras rolling?

It wasn´t hard to focus, but more difficult to watch what you said. It was a tough season for us as you could see in the movie.

Have you seen the movie? What is your impression?

I saw the movie on WDR and liked it. A few scenes were cut out, but I like how it turned out.

The scene of the movie is the Michael Jordan tirade in Frankfurt. How much do you remember that speech?

When I saw it again on you tube, I remembered it well. All what he said at that moment was true and we needed to hear it from him.

Could Michael Jordan start a movie career after he retires from basketball? He once told me he would like to be in a sitcom?

I don´t know about a sitcom, but he would be great in a drama. He would do a good job in a sitcom, because he is funny, but he is more an edgy person so drama would probably suit him better.

Michael Jordan missed the last week of the season being sent home. He really isn´t portrayed well in the movie. How was it really? He always wants to win.

I was a bit upset how he was portrayed. When he came in, he was supposed to be the savior, but then all of a sudden everything turned against him and I didn´t like the spin on the movie. He always wants to win and we were losing so much that everyone had issues which led to confrontations.

Michael Jordan and Chase Griffin didn´t harmonize on the court. Why couldn´t these two guys gel on the court?

I don´t know and still don´t know. Before Mike came on board, Chase had the ball in the hand, but when Mike came the coaches wanted him to make the decisions and I think that both kind of had the feeling that the other was trying to take the ball away.

Phoenix Hagen assistant coach Steven Wriedt gave a great performance. How would a sitcom of Mike Jordan the man from Philly and his German/American friend Steven Wriedt?

I really don´t think that a sitcom like that will come about. If it did, I am sure it would be funny. Steve is a funny guy.

What was your nicest memory of Jacob Burtschi?

My best memory was at the Allstar game in Trier with the Don´t drop the Rimmy Martin. My wife had a bottle of that and almost dropped it and Jake yelled don´t drop the Rimmy Martin.

Last season Jacob Burtschi was the monoply king in Hagen, but hasn´t seemed have gotten the Monopoly game board out. Do you know why?

No I don´t know, but if he said he was monopoly, then he is lying. He won some games as did David Bell and Malte Schwarz.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

American Gangstar?

Thanks for the chat.

Tramar Sutherland is a 23 year old 190cm guard that was born in Toronto, Canada. He started his basketball career at South Plains JC (JUCO) in 2008. In 2010-2011, he transferred to UALR (NCAA) where he played a total of 65 NCAA games. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career so far have been Sun Belt Tournament Winner -11, and Sun Belt West Division Regular Season Champion -12. Tramar is embarking on his professional basketball career and spoke to German Hoops about is basketball dreams.
Hi Tramar thanks for taking some time to talk to eurobasket.com. where are you now exactly and how excited are you at testing the european market?
I am home in Toronto, Canada. I just graduated from school. I am very excited about testing the European market. I feel like it’s the next big step.

You are a rookie. You just finished at UALR (NCAA). How ready are you for playing professional basketball?

I believe that I am ready to play professionally because I have been working hard for this moment. I’ve worked out with pros that have played in Europe and I compete at a high level.

How difficult was it making the adjustment from Juco at South Plains to the NCAA at UALR?

It wasn’t that difficult but the expectations were a lot higher and I expected that. I would stay in the gym and work on my game endlessly at south plains because I knew that I would play a lot if my game was on point. This kept me on the floor and I became a better player. At UALR I realized that everybody is in the gym working out just like I am. Everybody is fighting for a spot on the court and this motivated me to step my game up even more. There was no room for error.

You are a 190cm guard. What is your biggest strength as a player?

My slashing to the basket ability and my ability to defend at any level is my strength. I am athletic and can score against many different matchups. I really think the game and I can adjust to any line up.

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

I am athletic and can score against many different matchups. I really think the game and I can adjust to any line up.

You were the Sun Belt West Division Regular Season Champion in your senior year. What will you never forget from this run?

I will never forget our togetherness as a team and our willingness to never give up. I treated every game like it was my last because I didn’t want to lose. I will also never forget making the last 2 free throws to give us the win to capture the west division title.

What was the most incredible thing that you saw Dandre Williams do on the court?

I seen him steal the ball twice in less than 10 seconds to help us win the sun belt conference championship. He’s  a match up nightmare!!

You played 2 seasons for head coach Steve Shields. What was the most importan thing that you learned from him?

I learned that I have to pay attention to detail while playing and soak up everything that is taught to me like a sponge.

What NBA story will always stick out in your mind when thinking about assistant coach Joe Klein?

He’s a good shooting big man. I would say when he won the 6^th man honors in his early career.

Who was your toughest opponent in the NCAA(player)

Guarding Tristan Thompson from North Texas. He runs around screens all day.

how does a typical summer work out day look like for Tramar Sutherland?

I wake up and hit the weight room with my friend Alex Johnson he played at NC State and My friend Dane Smith from Tennessee Martin. Then I would do drills on the court before scrimmaging with the guys. This may take a while. After we are done we would do some conditioning before leaving the gym.

What is your most important asset that will convince any coach that he should hire you?

I am coachable and I will do any task in order to win. I do my best to make others better around me and I am a team player. I am a versatile player.

What is your dream as a player?

My dream is to play for many years and stay healthy. I want to have growth as a player every year and I want to be successful.

Thanks Tramar for the chat.