Christopher Copeland is a 28 year old 203 cm power forward from Orange, New Jersey that recently signed a contract with the NBA New York Knicks. He went to the University of Colorado from 2002-2006. In his senior year, he played 30 games averaging 12.1ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.6apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 44%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 68.8%. In his first season overseas, he played for Beirasar Rosalia (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five), only pre-season, then moved to C.B. L’Hospitalet (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five) playing 4 games averaging 4.0ppg, 8.0rpg and then moved to Matrixx Magix Nijmegen (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five) playing 28 games and averaging 18.0ppg, 7.6rpg, 2.1apg, 1.5spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 79.3%.in 2008-2009 season, he moved to Germany to TBB Trier playing 34 games averaging 13.2ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 74.8%. In 2009-2010, he continued to play for TBB Trier playing 33 games: Score-2(16.8ppg), 4.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 76.0%.In 2010-2011, he played for  for Generali Okapi Aalstar (Belgium) he played 36 games: 14.6ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 33.5%, FT: 73.8%. Last season for Generali Okapi Aalstar, he played Belgian League: 33 games: Score-1(21.8ppg), 5.5rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 57.2%, 3PT-2(44.7%), FT: 79.1%; EuroChallenge: 11 games: Score-2(20.1ppg), 4.0rpg, 3.6apg, FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 79.2%. This summer, he played NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas (New York Knicks): 5 games: 13.8ppg, 4.0rpg He spoke to German Hoops about his season in Belgium and his time with TBB Trier this summer before he signed an NBA contract with the New York Knicks.

You recently played your second season in Belgium. How quickly has time flown by since your days with TBB Trier?

Time has been flying so I must be getting older. I had a great time in Belgium.

You have played two seasons with Generali Okapi Aalstar and have a contract for next season. Did you get tips from ex teammate James Gillingham about staying with one team for a longer time?

He was a great leader and friend when I was with TBB Trier. We haven´t talked in a while, but he used to always give me advice about things.

You wanted to come to the TBB Trier-Fraport Skyliners game, but you were held up in Belgium?

Yes I was in Belgium. I had been planning to come to that game for a while and see Jamal Shuler, but we lost an ugly game on the weekend and had to practice Sunday. I would loved to have come, but that comes with the job.

You live in Aalsz Belgium which is smaller than Trier. How did you like living there?

The people were great there and its more quiet which is my speed. It was a great situation. Trier was bigger and I loved the people there also. I already enjoyed going to the Petrisberg in Trier. I loved the fans in Trier.

You won the Belgium cup this year against the Antwerpen Giants. What kind of a feeling was it winning your first title in Europe?

Winning was very amazing. It was so more special the way we won. We had to claw back and fight back and win in OT. It is always so much more special when you can win like that especially in a big game.

You had a big 24-10 fourth quarter to bring the game to OT. What was key for getting the win?

Defense, defense, defense. We had to get stops and started hitting our shots. We took the game into OT and took over from there.

Have you ever seen a better Kevin Kruger who was named MVP with 31 points?

I have seen Kevin have many great nights this season. He was very important in our comeback and showed how great a point guard he is by controlling the tempo having a bigger lineup. He kept us in line and is just a great point guard.

You have played against 2008 Beko BBL scoring champion Tim Black. What do you like most about his game?

He is an intelligent player with a high basketball IQ. He is a very good decision maker and takes good shots. He makes his team better and it is hard to defend him. You never know what he will do.

What was it like playing in a 9 team league instead of an 18 team league like in Germany?

With less teams, you play the teams more and become more familiar with the teams. It becomes more challenging when you see the same guys so often. Scouting becomes so much more important.

You have always been a scorer, but this season you led the Belgium league in scoring. Did something change in your role compared to last season?

I had a much bigger role this season. We lost many talented guys so I had to step it up a bit.

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

Everybody talks about my scoring, but my passing gets underestimated.

What can you still improve on your game?

I can still improve my defense. My one on one is solid, but my off ball defense can get better.

Your teammate was Jorn Steinbach who is a Belgium national player. Can he make the next step to another country or will he always play in Belgium?

He can play anywhere. He is very talented and smart. I am looking forward to the next years to see where he will play and how he will develop.

What has been the most amazing thing that you have seen Kevin Kruger do in a practice?

He is very good and making half court shots.

Who is the best player that you have faced in Belgium?

Mike Haynes who used to play in Germany. He is very athletic and just an all around good player.

What are the biggest differences to Belgium and the Beko BBL?

I think that they are pretty much similar, but there are 9 teams more in Germany. The Beko BBL is taller. There are more bigs in the Beko BBL.

Do you still have contact to ex TBB Trier players?

I have contact to many, but mostly to Derek Raivio and Jamal Shuler.

What else do you miss from Trier besides the Petrisberg?

I hung out there very much, but if I wasn´t there, I was playing video games with George Evans, Jamal Shuler and Derek Raivio.

You had a 2-2 record against Frankfurt. What player do you remember most? Maybe Quantez Robertson?

Tez was very exciting and was all over the court, but I remember Derrick Allen the most. He was always the guy that I matched up against.

Maik Zirbes could land in the NBA someday. Did you already sense some years back that he had potential?

Yes I did. Maik has some natural abilities that not many have. He is a very hard worker and sky is the limit for him.

What was the perfect Derek Raivio to Chris Copeland pass?

That is hard, because he made so many great passes. He gave me ally-op passes or long passes that hit me in the chest.

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

At Colorado(NCAA), I once made a little less than 100. Josh Levin was my rebounder.

What was your most crazy shot in your basketball career?

In the corner way out of bounds shot from behind the basket.

With what players would you like to play together with?

With Jamal Shuler and Derek Raivio again?

If you had to chose between Nate Fox and Chris Young to play a one on one game with, who would you chose?

Neither. It would be a punishment to have to play against one of them. They are so hard to defend, because they are so big.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Inglourious Basterds.

Thanks Chris for the chat.

Not only has summer found a small crack through the back door in Germany with the weather heating up the deprived country this weekend the same way 100 meter lightening bolt Usain Bolt does the fans with his pre race facial expressions, but 2013 European championships qualifications got revved up this weekend in Hagen with 1993 Euro winner Germany facing off against tiny neighbor Luxemburg. With Germany having posted a stellar 7-2 record this summer in friendlies, the exuberant crew of head coach Svetislav Pesic didn´t leave any of their past success this summer lost in Turkey or Bamberg, but were as focused as new New Orleans Hornet Brian Roberts always was on the court for Bamberg, Lionel Messi finally was in the second half of the 3-1 win against Germany this week where he scored one goal, but could of scored three or American gold medalist James Harden who has engraved the fear the beard phrase forever on the court as Germany trounced Luxemburg 101-53 winning their first game in the European qualifications for the Euro 2013. “We came into this game wanting to give everything we had. They weren´t easy to play as they were very small and quick. Our goal was to go inside to our big men which also opened it up for our three point shooters”, stressed ex Telekom Baskets Bonn forward Tim Ohlbrecht. Despite the big loss, Luxemburg players exited the dressing room after the loss in awe, but understood why they had lost this game. “This was a great experience for me. I have never had the chance to play against a team like this on the pro level. I think if this game would only have had three quarters, we would have been in the game. If we hadn´t had that awful first quarter of 0/7 shooting from outside, we would have had a chance. We were also too short to handle their big men”, stressed Luxemburg guard Christopher Jones. Not only was Luxemburg in awe after, but so was new Phoenix Hagen American Abe Lodwick who saw his first international game in Germany. “Luxemburg played out their hearts, but Germany was simply too talented and athletic. I liked the atmosphere. It is a small arena so the sound stays loud”, commented Abe Lodwick.

Despite the beach like humidity in the Enervie arena, where the only thing missing was Felix the Thunderbird mascot uncovering a hammock and ordering margaritas, the German national team didn´t really let any of the scorching heat disturb their play as they were able to manhandle Luxemburg as if they were on the north pole. For the 2,566 fans that had bought a ticket getting used to the sauna like conditions was difficult since they had been deprived of the summer with cooler temperatures this year, but the German players were used to it already. “It is hard to play in these temperatures and be aggressive, but we were used to these temperatures in Turkey”, stressed Tim Ohlbrecht. For 2010 NBA draft pick Tibor Pleiss, he will have to get used to these temperatures when he plays in the ACB this season for Caja Laboral. “They better have air conditioning there, or I will have to drink a whole pool before the game”, joked Tibor Pleiss. “It was so hot today, I could hop around the corner and jump in the Ischland pool”, laughed ratiopharm Ulm point guard Per Guenther. For Luxemburg player Christopher Jones who led his team in scoring with 19 points, he could of pulled a James Harden with his own theme with Fear the heat. “It was like a sauna and you lost energy fast, so you had to drink a lot. We weren´t used to playing in this type of heat. When it is this warm, you really need to get back to resources and play with routine. After this game, I wish I could be at the beach IN Belgium where I have family”, said Christopher Jones. “This heat was crazy. This was the hottest I have played in Europe this year. The heat makes it even tougher to play Germany in conditions like this”, said Luxemburg player Jairo Ferreira.

Even though Germany and Luxemburg are neighbors, both teams hadn´t played against each other since 1976 where Germany prevailed 69-50. Germany also wanted to make amends for their negative record in Hagen of 10-15 going into this game. In the first five minutes both teams were at even eyelevel even though it took Germany more time to find their rhythm. Per Guenther got Germany on the board first with a three pointer, but Luxemburg quickly showed that they weren´t timid as Raul Birenbaum and ex TBB Trier forward Sammy Picard scored in the lane as Luxemburg led 4-3. Both teams kept exchanging leads as they were still feeling each other out. Ex Brose Baskets Bamberg giant Tibor PLeiss made a tip in and Pit Koster some how scored over 215cm Tibor Pleiss with his 182cm as Luxemburg led again 6-5. FC Bayern Munich forward Jan Jagla made two free throws giving Germany the 7-6 lead, but it was Samy Picard again who played 52 Beko BBL games scoring over Jagla as Germany trailed 8-7. However then as is so often the case in basketball, one team kept scoring while the other didn´t as Germany ended the first quarter with a 18-2 run to lead 25-10. Germany was very versatile in their scoring any which way and their only mistake was when Jones stole a ball out of the hands of Per Guenther. Germany got needed production from Guenther and Jagla inside and a three pointer from Robin Benzing as Germany led 14-10. Luxemburg kept attacking with their run and gun, but were missing everything and Germany played heads up defense as Benzing made a monster block on Alexandre Rodenbourg. Ex TBB Trier center Maik Zirbes nailed a mid distance jumper, Tim Ohlbrecht made a tip in and Benzing ended the quarter with a bomb from downtown. “I thought that Germany took Luxemburg a bit lightly at the start. Luxemburg was playing well. Germany wasn´t 100% in the game and were giving up too many easy offensive rebounds. Germany was taking too many three pointers. Germany then found their rhythm and Picard and Schumacher didn´t hit their shots”, expressed eurobasket.com basketball expert Daniel Poerschke. Germany was shooting 47% from the field and 37% from outside while Luxemburg was shooting 26% from the field and 0% from outside. Germany led the rebounding easily 17-8 and both teams had four turnovers a piece.

The scoring rampage continued in the second quarter as Germany scooted out of the block with a 9-1 run to lead 34-11. Germany was subbing in and out and everyone was getting playing time. Maik Zirbes who looked like a monster compared to the Luxemburg players who seemed lost and out of place with their smaller bodies made a tip in off an offensive rebound. Bastian Doreth played with a lot of high intensity and is always putting the opponent under pressure hit a jumper and more big men did damage for Germany as Ohlbrecht made a tip in after his third try and Pleiss made a mid distance jumper as Germany led 34-11. From this stand point Luxemburg played a lot better mixing up their style with a healthy inside out game closing out the second quarter with a 16-11 run, but still trailed 45-27. Luxemburg went on a mini 5-0 run as Ferreira hit a three pointer and Schumacher scored inside with hard penetration as Germany led 34-16. Lucca Staiger stalled the Luxemburg run somewhat with a jumper, but Jones scored on penetration as Germany led 36-18. Staiger was hot and showed his scoring touch as netting 106 points in a youth game when he was 16 was no fluke nailed a step back 6 meter jumper from downtown Hagen. Luxemburg tried to keep pace with a Jones and Ferreira buckets, but Germany simply had too much fire power as Pleiss scored inside and Jan Jagla hit a pretty fade away jumper as Germany led 43-25. Jagla and Pablo Genevo whos dad palyed Davis Cup tennis for Luxemburg traded baskets at the end of the second quarter. Germany still led comfortably 45-27. “Germany kept their rhythm despite that little Luxemburg run, but Pesic took two timeouts to correct some things. Germany rebounded better, but it is very hard for Luxemburg to defend with all these mismatches”, stressed Daniel Poerschke. Germany was shooting 45% from the field and 31% from the three point line, while Luxemburg was shooting 34% from the field and 8,3% from the three point line. Germany had the commanding 28-15 rebound advantage and both teams had 8 turnovers.

If fans thought that the game was over at halftime, they were in for a big surprise as Luxemburg still had some kick in their tanks. Tom Schumacher started off the second half with a three point blast which was quickly answered from Heiko “I can hit from anywhere Schaffartzik in the corner as Germany led 50-30. Picard then flew by Pleiss who was still looking for something as he scored on a lay up. Benzing then scored again as Germany continued to keep the nice lead 52-32. One could say Luxemburg then went on a 11-3 run to cut the lead down too only 55-43, but better was the Christopher Jones show as he socred all 11 points. He nailed three three pointers and made two free throws. “Jones usually plays like that. He is a streaky scorer, but when he gets going , it is hard to stop him. His 11 points kept us in the game”, added Jairo Ferreira. “I guess you can say I was in the zone. I got hot. My 11 points was a team effort. My teammates had trust in my shot”, said Christopher Jones. Howver that was as close as Luxemburg would get as Germany closed out the third quarter with 15-5 run to lead 70-48. With the hot temperature, it was evident that Luxemburg was getting tired. Germany also had an easier time to read their run and gun game as they had no inside game. Germany hit three three pointers in this run from Per Guenther who hit a in your face Schwarz jumper, Philipp Schwethelm and Kartsen Tadda also hit. “We played too relaxed in their comeback. We ended the quarter with more concentration. We mixed up our game more which helped”, added Tim Ohlbrecht. “They played zone and we couldn´t hit our shots at the end of the quarter. It was easier for them to guard our perimeter play and we had problems moving the ball”, stressed Jairo Ferreira.

The fourth quarter was a walk in the parka s Germany closed out the game with a nasty31-5 quarter. Germany kept punishing Luxemburg inside as the lob pass proved to be very effective as Ohlbrecht scored twice inside and Zirbes also did thanks to an Ohlbrecht feed. Staiger and Doreth also hit jumpers as Germany had the overwhelming 84-53 lead. Germany then ended the game with a 17-0 run. The only thing challenging the German team and fans was the question as to wheather Germany could crack the 100 point mark. Germany kept supplying the fans with a smorgasboard of beautiful offensive plays. Benzing found some daylight from the wing and nailed a two handed dunk which was followed by back to back three pointers from Staiger and Schwethelm as Germany led 96-53. With a minute too go, Germany continued to keep their defensive pressure on par forcing turnovers and extended chnaces of hitting the 100 mark. Ohlbrecht then fed Pleiss with a lob pass that the German stuffed home. Germany then had the last possession and Tim Ohlbrecht finished off the game with a rare three pointer. “I was very happy to make that shot. I didn´t have too many chances last season to take the three pointer”, smiled Tim Ohlbrecht. “This was a tough game. We were in the game for three quarters, but then just broke down. Germany played at a high level for 40 minutes”, added Jairo Ferriera. “We played better in the second half on offense and defense. We boxed out better under the basket”, commented Tom Ohlbrecht.

Germany was led by Robin Benzing with 17 points. Maik Zirbes, Tim Ohlbrecht and Maik Zirbes chipped in with 12 points a piece. Per Guenther and Tibor Pleiss added 10 points a piece. Luxemburg was led by Christopher Jones with 19 points. Tom Schumacher contributed 12 points. Germany shot 48% from the field and 44% from the three point line, while Luxemburg struggled all night shooting 32% from the field and 21% from the three point line. Germany dominated the boards 51-27. Germany had 17 turnovers and Luxemburg 21. Germany allowed only 53 points and will need to keep up their physical presence in the next games on defense. “Germany isn´t scared to be physical. Sometimes they give an elbow and that is something that the opponent needs to live with. This was the toughest defense that I have encountered”, stressed Christopher Jones. Germany has to forget this game and focus on Bulgaria who they meet Tuesday in Sofia. “Bulgaria will be more an exciting game. They play at a total different level. We will have to rebound well and keep that healthy balance of inside out”, warned Tim Ohlbrecht.

 

Philip Mickey Perry is a 188cm guard from Maywood, Illinois. He played at Wisconsin(NCAA) from 2005-2007 and then finished his college basketball career at Dayton from 2007-2010. He played a total of 95 NCAA games at Dayton. In his senior year, he played a total of  37 games: 5.4ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 39.8%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 61.7%. In 2010-2011, he played for the  North West Indiana Magic Stars (ABA). Last season, he played for the  Dayton Air Strikers (PBL): 29 games: 15.1ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 76.6%. The American spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Your buddy London Warren was signed recently by a Hungarian team. How happy are you for him and does his fight for not giving up to find a team motivate you?

Yes I saw the article and talked to him shortly after and I was most definitely happy for him going through some tough and great times during our college days at University of Dayton and it most certainly did that you never know when your opportunity may come and hoping Iget the chance to prove myself just like he’s gotten that’s all i want.

Where are you at the moment and how has your basketball summer been like?

Well my summer has just been all work and no play early May went to china for my 3x with the Seattle Mountaineers ABA team for a tour playing a CBA team in the a tough best of 7 series all around China winning the series in a tough game 7 finishing with 17ppg,  5ast and 5rebs and 2sts and being from Basketball Heaven Maywood IL been able to get some very good open gyms runs at my Highschool Proviso East with some A1 talent guys like Dee Brown Illinois Jacob Pullen Kansas State both products of Proviso East my former Wisconsin Badger teammate and all time leading scorer in that schools history Alando Tucker just to name a few that come through but its most def kept my game sharp

You haven´t played for a team since 2011. How tough is it searching searching and searching for a team? What keeps you motivated and how is the search going?

Yea my Love for the game of basketball has been tested that’s for sure in regards to getting to the higher levels of pro basketball but I love the game and think in every opportunity that I have been blessed enough to get so far I’ve taken advantage of and i know I’m ready to make that jump given the opportunity.

Since your days at Dayton, you have played in the ABA and PBL leagues. Are you ready to make the jump to Europe?

Playing for the Dayton Airstrikers was again a beautiful struggle lol being cut first at training camp then brought back and showing that I could play was all I wanted to prove. It was cool to be playing semi pro ball where I went to college and knew my way around and have the Flyer community as they always do come out and support me and the team there support is what sold me on going to the University of Dayton transferring from the University of Wisconsin #1 in the country at the time

If you had to compare the PBL to the NCAA how would you in terms of skill and level?

Well honestly the PBL was a tougher league than some people or organizations in Europe might think guys from Big time D1 programs to Juco players guys played extremely hard and with pride so in my opinion the skill level was pretty high to be have an opportunity to do what we love and that’s play basketball a couple of the tougher teams left that league and formed their own league Canada given the reason why I decided to leave that following season.

Your a 188cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would you compare it too?

If Ihad to compare my game to an NBA player it would have to be Jason Terry. I can score the basketball catch and shoot off the dribble but I can also can put the ball on the floor and help get my teammates a good shot and I most certainly know I can defend on the ball or picking up a certain teams defensive scheme being fortunate enough to be a winner at every level i’ve played on Defense is what separate players cause everyone can score these days.

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

A strength of my game that I think that doesn’t always get noticed is just making the simple play at times and what ever that may be an extra pass, help the helper on D, getting a lose ball just what ever it takes a player can impact the game in so many ways and I just Go Hard when I’m on the court in what ever the team needs at the time.

What is your finest quality in your game that any coach in the professional ranks would love to have in a player?

The finest quality in my game that any coach in the professional ranks would love to have in a player? My Drive and dedication to just get better. I love the game of basketball and know that you get out what you put in and when I step on the court in my workouts, a practice I go like its game real to be the very best i can be.

How does a normal workout day look like for you? What things do you work on on your game to improve?

A normal workout day for me would be weights/conditioning early in the morning to start my day off right trying to be done with both of those by 11am and the workouts varies day to day and then hitting the court at least twice the rest of the day first workout being ball handling cause you can always improve your handle being a basketball player and shots of the move i feel my catch and shot abilities are pretty good and going hard for no more than hr and half and if not some pick up then the 2nd workout always starting with ball handling and getting some catch and shoot shots up keeping that sharp always counting makes never misses and finishing with shots off the move jumpers, floaters just trying to be a complete offensive player and that start with being in shape

You played together with Brian Roberts. What is the most amazing thing that you ever saw him do on the court besides scoring in bunches?

Yea playing with one of the flyer greats Brian Robers was something else and yea he could really score but like any great player his work ethic and basketball IQ always showed even the games he wasn’t dominating the game with his scoring.

What is your nicest memory of London Warren at Dayton? What will you never forget from him?

My Nicest memory of London would have to be just his never ending motor always high energy all time and as basketball goes I had just transferred to Dayton and had to sit out and was in the rex plex getting some run in with some of the guys on my floor and London dunking I think one of the top 100 dunks of All time if I’m not mistaken was pretty impressive a guy his size

Who would win in their prime, the Dream Team or Team USA 2012?

Without question in their prime the 92 Dream would dominate inside with Ewing, David Robinson, Karl Malone and sir Charles the 2012 to me just wouldn’t have answer

What was the last DVD that you watched?

The Last Dvd I watched was the game of thrones just finished the last season and it was something else would most definitely recommend checking it out

Thanks Mickey 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 playing 31 games: 14.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.7apg, Steals-4(1.9spg), FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.7%. 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. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Hi Q where are you at the moment and how have you been spending your summer?
Hello Miles. I am currently in New Albany, In right across the bridge from Louisville, KY. My summer has just been basketball, basketball, basketball. Working out and working camps.

It is still August and you still are without a basketball team. How frustrating is it still kicking around at home whereas other players are already heading to Europe to their teams?

Yes I am still home waiting. It’s very frustrating to me because I’ve never had to wait this long. But I have to keep my faith and continue working because something will come up and I will be ready.

You had a pretty solid season in Austria averaging 14.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.7apg, Steals-4(1.9spg), FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.7%. You were a eurobasket second team player, named to the all defensive team and an allstar. Can you figure out why your still jobless. Have you just gotten the wrong offers?

I don’t understand but I can’t stress myself over it. I’ve had 2 offers but they were not good situations for me.

You are 29 and in the best basketball age. What is your current biggest strength on the court that would help any team?

I’m actually still 28 now. I think my biggest strength is my versatility. I can all the guard positions and defend them all.

Sometimes its not wrong heading back to a former team. Why doesn´t Phoenix Hagen have interest in you? You could spark the team vocally, on defense and offense?

I think that they wanted to take their team in a different direction and me as player wanted to go another way. I had a good time there and good memories.

The Fraport Skyliners still have many open holes in their roster. Are the Skyliners a team that you would like to play for and why?

I would love to play for the Skyliners. They are one of the better teams in the BBL and always in the playoff hunt. That is what I like because I’m all about winning and competing. They also have a loyal fan base that is completely behind the team.

If you could describe your play in one sentence that would be appetizing  teams, how would you do it?

I’m just a relentless player that wants to win.

How does a typical summer workout day look like for Quentin Pryor?

I go to University of Louisville and workout with my former teammate Andre McGee. I lift for 60 minutes then get in skill work for another 90 minutes. Depending on the day I either attend open gym there or go to Indiana University Southeast. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday I hit track for my conditioning and agility drills.
Michael Jordan recently retired and will coach at Colgate. What will always be your sweetest memory of the point guard?

I would have to say when he made the shot to beat Giessen. It was a big game for us and one we had to have and he came through for us.

Who would win a game in their prime, the 1992 Dream team or 2012 USA basketball team?

That is a must see. Its tough but I have to go with the 92 team. I think that they would be too big inside to match up with. They also were focused on the defensive end.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I watched the movie Safehouse with Denzel Washington.

Thanks Q for the chat.

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.