Three weeks ago, the season began so hopeful for the Fraport Skyliners Juniors as they began the season off well at home against TSV Troester Breitengussbach with a victory, but a few weekends later, the team was staring at a ugly 1-3 record as the 2-2 team Fellbach entered the BCM. In the previous 3 games, Frankfurt had stunk up the house in Leitershofen mustering only 50 points, played a hard fought game in Rhondorf, but ran out of energy in double OT and last weekend could never get over the hump playing catch up basketball and losing to FC Bayern Munich. It didn´t get any easier against new team Fellbach who had moved up from the Regionalliga. Despite having a 2-2 record, the Bavarian team is always focused and wanting to prove something. They had been up and down beating Speyer and Breitengussbach, but had lost to Oberaching and Leitershofen. It was a must win for the Fraport Skyliners Juniors as they didn´t want to move farther down in the standings. The Fellbach Flashers came out strong and controlled the game for the most part, but in the fourth quarter weren´t able to close out the game as Frankfurt fought back and relied on their weapons and team play to grind out an ugly 87-82 win. “It was another one of those games where we showed resilience something we hadn´t shown in the last games. We showed more energy and fighting spirit. We did a good job putting all our weapons into use and played good defense”, stressed Fraport Skyliner Junior Trevian Bell (201-G/F, college: Lewis). The SC Fellbach Flashers played a well rounded game, but just couldn´t slam the door on Frankfurt. “This was a tough loss. We had control of the game and felt we steered it well, but lost control at the end. We definitely played better than the last games, but we should of won this game”, stressed SC Fellbach Flasher Zaire Thompson.

Justin Onyejiaka jumper

The Fraport Skyliners Juniors had Justin Onyejiaka back who had been missing the first few games because of injury. Frankfurt got their offense rolling right away as ex Wurzburg Forward Nils Leonhardt and Illinois native Trevian Bell connected for three´s. The Bavarian team also got their offense going getting a quick lay in by ex Koblenz center Brian Butler and a trey from sniper Lars Berger. Frankfurt continued to execute well getting back to back buckets from Onyejiaka and Bell for the 10-5 lead. Fellbach struck back with a lay in from Pro A veteran Andreas Kronhardt who has 244 games on his account and a trey from 20 year old German/Bulgarian Nikola Jekov to trail 12-10. It was a pretty even game as both teams executed well, but it felt like Frankfurt was a bit stronger. Frankfurt continued to execute very well finding Bell who scored twice and Jordan Samare made a massive throw down getting the perfect pass from Albert Schweitzer winner Philipp Hadenfeldt for the 20-13 lead. Frankfurt´s offense was just flowing better as their inside out game was giving Fellbach problems and their work on the boards was better. German Nik Schlipf who played at 2 NCAA 2 schools connected on a trey late in the first quarter as Fellbach trailed 20-16 after 10 minutes. “Our starts this season have been a problem. We always have to fight back. We had problems controlling Bell and Samare. Samare can do everything and is so athletic”, stated ex Fordham (NCAA) guard Zaire Thompson. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 47% from the field and 25% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the SC Fellbach Flashers shot 44% from the field and 33% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

Andreas Kronhardt at the FT line

In the second quarter the SC Fellbach Flashers made their move coming back and leading by 10 points at the break. Andreas Kronhardt began the second quarter with a turn around shot while Dusan Nikolic used his quickness and made a pretty finger tip roll as Frankfurt led 22-18. Frankfurt kept up the offensive pressure with a Hadenfeldt three pointer and beautiful Samare dunk on transition getting the perfect dime from Hadenfeldt, but they couldn´t get stops. Fellbach got big support from the bench from Schlipf who drained another trey as did Zaire Thompson from outside. After a Butler turn around shot, Fellbach suddenly led 28-27. Fellbach upped their intensity at both ends and played smarter and made wiser decisions on offense. Fellbach took advantage of their bench with key baskets and Frankfurt played lax 1-1 defense. Justin Onyejiaka would give Frankfurt the lead back one more time 30-28 with a three pointer. Fellbach then closed out the second quarter in very fine fashion with a 15-5 run to lead 43-33 at the break. The Bavarian team got 3 clutch three´s from Kronhardt, Schlipf and Berger, but also got lay in´s from Thompson and American Andre Gillette who played at Fairleigh-Dickinson (NCAA). “We upped our intensity at both ends and played better team basketball. We have no super stars on the team so playing team ball is important. We have to keep working on that”, added Zaire Thompson. The SV Fellbach Flashers shot 53% from the field and 54% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 5 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 37% from the field and 22% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

Nils Leonhardt at the FT line

In the third quarter the Fraport Skyliners Juniors fought hard and got close but just couldn´t get over the hump and trailed by 5 points after 30 minutes. Frankfurt got 2 easy lay in´s from Jordan Samare, but couldn´t make any ground as Kronhardt was a beast with a put back and Lars Berger snuck inside with a lay in and 49-40 Fellbach advantage. Frankfurt just couldn´t make any ground as both teams were executing as Leonhardt and Kronhardt scored, but Fellbach still led comfortably 51-42. But sometimes things can turn around so quickly as bang Frankfurt received back to back three´s from Samare and Hadenfeldt and suddenly Fellbach led only 51-48. Frankfurt just couldn´t get over the hump as they executed well, but Fellbach got a great game from Zaire Thompson who was an offensive force hitting shot after shot keeping Fellbach ahead 58-53. Bell made a huge pull up jumper for Frankfurt to trail 58-55, but the guests always had an answer as Berger nailed a deep three. Frankfurt wasn´t guarding the three point line well enough. Felix Hecker who is still looking for his three point consistency drilled home a trey, but Kronhardt had an answer again with a trey as Fellbach led 64-59 after 3 quarters. “We continued to play good team basketball and found good options. But we need to be able to get an even higher lead to be able to win games on the road”, commented Zaire Thompson. “We couldn´t get stops. They did a good job exploiting mismatches. We need to make right adjustments and play team defense and not 1-1 defense”, commented Trevian Bell. The SV Fellbach Flashers shot 52% from the field and 45% from the parking lot and had 25 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 43% from the field and 30% from the parking lot and had 25 rebounds and 7 turnovers.

Lars Berger from outside

The fourth quarter was a dog fight as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors began with a bang with a trey from Philipp Hadenfeldt to trail 64-62, but as always the beast Andreas Kronhardt made an easy lay in as he once again got a perfect pass this time from Greek player Charalampos Sikalidis. A guy like Kronhardt should give every player a free meal at the end of the season, because of how well his teammates feed him for easy buckets. “Andreas is one of our best players. We need him badly. His scoring helps us. He is very versatile and when he scores our offense works”, stressed Zaire Thompson. Ex Kronberg center Florian Dietrich made a tap in and free throw to cut Fellbach´s lead to 67-65, but once again it was Thompson who made a lay in to keep Frankfurt from getting over the hump. It seemed like Frankfurt may never get over the hump again after a Gillette basket as Frankfurt trailed 71-65. But Frankfurt continued to fight getting a big three from Hadenfeldt and lay in by Trevian Bell as the game was dead locked 71-71. Fellbach continued to battle and gained the lead back again with consecutive buckets from Brian Butler to lead 77-73. But If Butler can do it so can Jordan Samare as he scored back to back baskets to tie the game again 77-77. Frankfurt then took the lead and would never give it up again. Onyejiaka and Hadenfeldt dropped free throws for the 81-77 advantage. Berger made a lay in with 49 seconds as Frankfurt led 81-79. Bell then made a huge jumper from the left wing to lead 83-79. “I have a lot of experience. I never let lesser touches or less shots taken in some minutes affect me. I got a good pass from Hadenfeldt and the shot felt good from the mid range”, added Trevian Bell. Thompson made another giant clutch three from the top of the key to cut Frankfurt´s lead to 83-82 with 15 seconds to play. “I have a bigger role on the team. I worked a lot on my game last summer and improved my shot. I have more confidence taking big shots”, stated Zaire Thompson. But Trevian Bell closed out the game with 4 free throws. “This was our best quarter of the game. We are learning more and more how to use our weapons best and how to coexist. We rebound and defended well. We are starting to learn how to balance our offense and defense”, warned Trevian Bell. “Our transition defense and their three´s hurt us at the end. Also their easy lay up´s and offense rebounds hurt us”, stated Zaire Thompson. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Justin Onyejiaka and Jordan samara with 17 points a piece while Trevian Bell and Philipp Hadenfeldt chipped in with 15 points a piece. The SV Fellbach Flashers were led by Andreas Kronhardt with 20 points while Zaire Thompson had 19 points and lars Berger 15 points. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 46% from the field and 32% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 9 turnovers while the SV Fellbach Flashers shot 53% from the field and 42% from outside and 30 rebound and 13 turnovers.

pic credit Nina Sander

Nick Muszynski (211-C-1998, college: Belmont) is a 24 year old 211cm center from Ohio playing his second professional season and second with the Bozic Estriche Knights Kircheim. Last season he split time with Enea Astoria Bydgoszcz (Poland-EBL) averaging 7.2ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.9apg, 1.0bpg, 2FGP: 43.9%, 3FGP: 66.7%, FT: 76.7 and 7.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 52.7%, FT: 85.2% with Kirchheim. He began his basketball career with Saint Charles high school and then played 4 years at Belmont (NCAA) playing a total of 124 games and averaging 15/5 in his 4 seasons. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a game against the Fraport Skyliners.

Thanks Nick for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?

I am doing well. I am currently in Kirchheim on our off day, and my basketball life is treating me great. We have a strong young team that is very cohesive and off to a strong start.

Your playing your second season with the Kirchheim Knights. Has it became like a new second home after Belmont?

It is certainly becoming that way, although this season is very different from last. Since I came over mid season last year, I never felt as though I was fully acclimated without having a preseason or preparation period. This season I am much more ‘at home’, and having the second half of last season to build on only makes it more comfortable for me on and off the court.

You are living in a very beautiful area in my opinion especially in summer. What have you appreciated most about the area and the organization as a whole?

I love a lot about the area we are in. It is a great blend of city and nature, with great weather and lots of sunshine. Kirchheim is a very tightly knit community, while I am also very close to lots of places to get some fresh air and enjoy the outdoors, and a quick drive from Stuttgart to go to one of Germany’s biggest cities.

After coming in mid season last year, your ready for the next step. I’m sure you have huge goals, but is becoming a dominant big man in the Pro A to much to ask for?

I think that is a very fair thing to ask for. Last year was a major adjustment period both on and off the floor, and having a full offseason to prepare for this year has been very beneficial for me. I think we have a very strong squad this season, and being the best version of myself will help us reach all of the lofty goals we have as a team.

The team has talented guards and bigs, so how far can this team go this season? What is most special about the club?

We have very high expectations for our team this season. We feel as though we can be a strong playoff team with the understanding that once you make it to the top 8, anything can happen. The most special part about this club this year is our continuity from last season. 7 out of our 10 rational players are returners from last season, and the 3 new guys have filled in perfectly. We also have the same coaching staff. That continuity gives us a strong level of understating and trust in one another, which is key for any successful team to have.

What has it been like being teammates with German big man Jonas Niedermanner? He is the definition of a modern big man. What do you enjoy most about his game?

Jonas is a players dream kind of teammate. He is a great athlete with size, and can guard 1 through 5. We start him at the 3 most nights, but he can slide to both 2 and 4 offensively if necessary. He is unselfish and very experienced, and what I enjoy most about his game is his versatility on both ends of the floor. He allows our team to attack opponents in a wide variety of ways.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 211cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

As a more skilled big man, my play style is becoming less and less comparable in the NBA compared to how it was in the past. I would say any big that plays with the ball in their hands and looks to make plays for others fits that mold. I’d say being left handed and playing both in the low post and as a middle of the floor facilitator, one player I try to take a lot of things from is Sabonis.

You’re a versatile big man. What do you believe is your biggest strength right now?

I’d say my offensive IQ and feel for playing team offense. Coming over from the states, it has taken a bit of an adjustment learning the different schemes and flow to the FIBA game. But in year two, I feel as though I am learning and processing the game at a much higher level as a passer and facilitator for both myself and my teammates.

Is a goal of yours to keep developing a three pointer? Where do you see your three now in the development phase?

Yes, 100%. I shot the ball well from distance early in my college career, but between an ankle surgery and the COVID shutdown I placed my jump shot on the lower end of importance to more focus on being the dominate low post presence my team needed me to be to help us win games. However I have a lot of confidence in my jump shot and put a lot of work into it now, and Coach Igor has really empowered me to let it fly when I am open for them within our offense.

You were an active and strong shot blocker in the NCAA. Where are you now as a defender and where do you still want to go with your defensive game down the road?

I think a lot of my defensive game will grow with repletion and experience. I want to be able to be a vocal and physical leader on the defensive end of the floor, and I defiantly have a lot of work to do to get there. We watch a lot of video as a team and I also watch a lot on my own, and one of my primary focuses is being a quicker and more active help defender. With my length I feel as though by improving there I can help make any defense I am apart of more disruptive and more protective of the paint.

On what areas of your game are you working on most at the moment?

As a post player that doesn’t necessarily qualify as an ‘elite athlete’, one thing I am constantly focusing on is my conditioning. Every off season that is my number one priority, as it is something that doesn’t come to be naturally but rather I must work harder at than others to reach where I want to be. In terms of basketball, I would say my jump shot. Whether that be from 3, from the mid range off a short roll, or from the post on a turnaround, it is something I am always trying to fine tune and something that you can’t get too many reps of!

Last season you began at Enea Astoria Bydgoszcz (Poland-EBL) averaging 7.2ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.9apg, 1.0bpg, 2FGP: 43.9%, 3FGP: 66.7%, FT: 76.7%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were very far away from home?

I would say my first time was on my very first day when I went to the grocery store and had 20 or so items on my list and was able to find about 4 of them. I felt very isolated and out of place, and wasn’t really able to ask for help. It was a very humbling experience and something I am very grateful for now as it taught me lots of critical thinking skills and how to persevere when you are frustrated and uncomfortable.

You played at Belmont (NCAA) from 2017-2022 and reached the NCAA tournament as a freshman. You were consistent and averaged 15/5 all 4 years. How did your game grow in this time?

I would say my role changed within the team each year (especially the first 4 years) and I had to learn how to be productive in every season. Whether it was being a positive practice player my redshirt year, to being a key contributor on a team that had 2 1,000 point scorers in their senior season my freshman year, becoming a key of the other team’s scouting report my sophomore season, or really growing into more of a leadership role my junior and senior season, I was constantly having to adjust how much was being asked of me and my role at any given season during my time at Belmont.

You lost 79-77 to Maryland in the NCAA tournament scoring 9 points. What will you always remember from that game?

How special the environment and that event is. Every kid in the states who grows up playing basketball dreams of playing in the NCAA Tournament, and getting to play in that event, win a game in the First Four, and then play a thriller vs Maryland in the round of 64 will always be an experience I cherish (even if it still stings we didn’t win that game!!).

You had so many great games at Belmont and scored over 30 points in wins over Drake and Tennessee State. What was your fondest game there?

The 2019-2020 Ohio Valley Conference championship game vs Murray State my sophomore year. We won on a last second layup by Tyler Scanlon to punch our ticket to the NCAA Tournament that would later get canceled by COVID-19 the following week. That team was incredibly close and probably my favorite team I was a part of during my time at Belmont.

What memories will you always have of Dylan Windler with whom you played 2 seasons with? Did you know then he would reach the NBA?

Dylan was an incredible talent and a great leader for our program. We always knew he was a hidden gem, and saw the talent and work ethic everyday in our facility. I was very fortunate to play with two first round picks during my time at Belmont, and the best part about it was how great human beings they were both on and off the floor.

How did head coaches Rick Byrd and Casey Alexander groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

They taught be how to play the game the right way, as a member of a team through an unselfish and high IQ play style. They also taught me the importance of being a well rounded person, and how all the talent in the world won’t get you anywhere if you don’t have a good work ethic and strong character.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Seth Adelsperger?

Me and Seth both won our fair share of battles. He and I complimented each other very well on the floor, especially during that 2019-2020 championship run. He was a great veteran that I looked up to and learned a lot from.

Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Ja Morant.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I don’t know about best because I have had a countless amount both at the college and professional level, so I’ll just shout out my 5 classmates at Belmont considering we have a bond that will last us a lifetime – Grayson Murphy, Caleb Hollander, Luke Smith, Tate Pierson, and Michael Mayernick.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

MJ, LeBron, Kareem, Bill Russell.

Who is your GOAT and why?

Michael Jordan. He’s the most dominant competitor the game has ever seen.

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America movie? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

I never saw the sequel, so I can’t comment on it!

Thanks Nick for the chat.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Igor Perovic in 2008 in Frankfurt

Igor Perovic (194-G-1974) is a former player that currently is in his fourth season as coach of German Pro A team Bozic Estriche Kirchheim Knights. He has previous coaching experience with the Tigers Tuebingen where he coached from 2009-2015. As a player he played in countries like Serbia, Montenegro, Israel and Germany where he played 5 seasons with Tuebingen and Wurzburg. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the Pro A game against the Fraport Skyliners.

Thanks Igor for talking to germanhoops.com. You are now in your fourth season as head coach with the Kirchheim Knights. Has Kirchheim become like a second home for you?

I enjoy my time in Kirchheim and like to work here. We have a good group of people in the club. Everything is very familiar here

The club reached the playoffs once a few years ago and is always close to the playoffs. What are your expectations this season?

We have high expectations always. We try to build the best possible team every year and I think that we are competitive every year. This year we have very good and hungry players and we can be a problem for many teams.

The club has 2 explosive guards with Flowers and Miller and the team have shown in the past that with strong guard play they can be successful like under Richie Williams. Does the team have enough depth to be a playoff team?

I think we have good depth. We have players with big rolls and some younger players with smaller rolls but all of them are super important and will get their chance to show their potential. Flowers and Miller are key players but they deserved to have that roll in our team. I wanted to have guards that can do lot of things on the court and they are definitely that type of players.

I have followed young Germans Jonas Niedermanner and Antonio Dorn for years. It seems like in comparison to other Pro A teams, the German rotation is slim?

I don’t think that our German rotation is not big enough. We have very good and smart German players. They are physically very good. Some of them have lot of experience, some of them are very young but that`s what I want and like.

You got your first coaching experience with the Walter Tigers Tuebingen. How thankful will you forever be to Robert Wintermantel who was your ex teammate that then got you that job?

Yes i will always be thankful to Robert and Tübingen for the chance they gave me. It was the best thing that could happen to me. I was part of Tübingen basketball for 10 and a half years. 7 and a half as a coach. We beat teams like Alba, Bayern, Oldenburg, Ludwigsburg and literally we beat every team in those years. Of course we lost lot of games too but we never was a big budget team that was supposed to make a big results.

How do you feel did you grow as a coach in those 7 years where you saw a lot of highs and lows?

It was great but not an easy time. We never had a lot of coaches on the bench that could help me. My first 4 years I worked together with Radio Zdravkovic who was a big help for me and became my friend life. I had lot of ups and downs in those years but that is part of every coach job. I have learned a lot.

How have you been following the Tigers Tuebingen in the last few years? Was Danny Jansson absolutely the best thing that happened to that organization?

I follow them of course. We played them the last 3 years. Danny is doing great job and he is the most important person in their organization in the last 3 years. They deserved to be part of BBL again and I wish them to stay there forever and to win every game.

How excited are you to be coaching for the first time in the Pro A against Frankfurt? You played against them and coached against them in the easyCredit BBL?

Its a pity that the club like Frankfurt moved down. They are one of the favorites to be in BBL next year.

What do you remember being your fondest moment against Frankfurt? I believe you lost more games than you won?

I played against them a lot in 10 years. I don’t know exactly how many wins and losses but definitely it was many great games. I played many games against them when Gordon Herbert was their coach. He is one of the best coaches I ever played against. I am happy that he put his name in the history books now. It is 100% deserved.

How have you personally followed Denis Wucherer´s coaching career starting in Munich and going to Giessen and Wurzburg? What kind of a coach is he in your eyes?

Denis is great coach. He was smart as a player and he can not be different now. Will be difficult to beat him this year. He had lot of success in Giessen and Würzburg. I think he is motivated to bring Frankfurt where they belong.

Did you know that you and Denis Wucherer having something very special, unique and rare in common?

Yes I know that we have one great thing in common. I had one triple double but I believe that he had more than one.

Will you remind him on Sunday?

Now when you remind me we will talk about that when we see each other probably.

In that triple double Tuebingen beat the EWE Baskets Oldenburg and the top 3 players for Tuebingen in that game were Rasko Katic 31/15, AJ Moye 23/7/6, you 22/10/10 combined in 117 minutes. What memories do you have of that game?

I will never forget that Rasko Katic played that game with only 1 practice before that game because his son was in hospital and he was with him for 24/7. He is one of the toughest people I ever met. He was 31 and 15 in that game. AJ and me had a great game too.

Was that your best game in the easyCredit BBL?

Yes that was my best game in the BBL It was hard to beat that game

I have another triva question for you? With what ex Skyliner were you teammates in Tuebingen from 2006-2008? Do you have any idea?

Of course that was AJ Moye

What memories do you have of AJ Moye. The guy was so talented and had to retire early because of a stroke with the Fraport Skyliners. Shouldn´t he have been picked up by a Eurocup team earlier? Was he just badly represented in Tuebingen?

AJ was hard working player. He was mentally and physically strong. He wasn’t the biggest talent but fighter and competitor yes. That is very difficult to find. I see that now when I am searching for that type of players every year.

I remember AJ Moye as being a positive and funny guy. What is your fondest moment with him?

I remember him as a player who gives 100% on every practice. It wasn’t any fun or jokes during the practice. I never went out in my time in Tübingen because I had a small kids so I don’t know how AJ was of the court. But if he had a similar energy of the court like he had on the court I guess it was lot of fun around him.

If someone had told you before the 2023 World Cup that Germany would win what would you have thought?

I was one of the guys that said that Germany has a team to win the medal. I saw them live in super cup in Hamburg against Canada and China and I was impressed. First of all Germany has a great coach. German players are in the physical pick and in best age. Germany is extremely tall, strong and athletic team. They have great defenders and Gordon knows how to make strong team defense from the players that like to play defense and have great length and speed. Franz Wagner is one of the best combo guards in the world. I never saw the player who is 208cm that can play both guard positions offensively and defensively. I was impressed with them but my expectation on them was high already before WM

Thanks Igor for the chat.

Ricardo Artis II (198-F/G-1993, college: Wiley) is a 30 year old 198cm forward from Texas that is playing his second season in Germany and first with the bringiton Ballers Ibbenbueren (Germany-ProB). Last season he tore up the Regionalliga with SV Hagen-Haspe 70 (Germany-Regionalliga): 30 games: Score-2 (29.3ppg), Reb-3 (11.5rpg), 2.7apg, Steals-4 (3.2spg), FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 81.1%. Before coming overseas, he played back at home for TBL teams Dallas Skyline, and the Enid Outlaws and the Potawatomi Fire. He also played with the North Texas Prowlers (PBA) and Newfoundland Rogues (ABA). He played at 4 schools with Eastfield College (JUCO), McLennan Community College (JUCO), North Lake College (JUCO) and Wiley College (NAIA). He teams up with germanhoop.com each week to talk basketball.

Congrats Ricardo on the huge 89-63 win over Lok Bernau. How good did it feel helping the organization win it´s first ever Pro B game?

It felt good to give this city what they deserve. The energy from the fans are always great and motivational. I’m just glad I was able to contribute and become a part of history for this organization.

Ibbenburen had the commanding 49-34 lead at the break. What was key for being able to have the big lead at the break?

Defense was big. Staying together and the game plan were also key to our first half success.

How key was the Ibbenburen 10-0 run in the third quarter which gave you the 22 point lead? That pretty much decided the game early.

It was important but we knew it would take more than that run to seal the game. We gave up leads previously in the first 3 games so we knew we couldn’t celebrate and we had to continue to do our best to leave with a win.

You were up by 25 points after 3 quarters. How tough is it in general to get everyone on the same page and not let up? The team closed out the game strong.

We been up in all three of our first games and ended up on the losing side of the table. This team was eager for the win so even if we were up by 30 we would’ve continued to battle hard like we were down 30.

German Kai Hanig had a monster 21/13 game. How valuable was he and what do you appreciate most about his game?

Kai is an important piece for us on and off the court. He’s the only one with previous Pro B experience also if I’m not mistaken. The more comfortable we can get him the more pressure it takes off of me and the rest of our players on the court to make plays.

What was your impression of German big man Linus Ruff who finished with 22 points. He could have had more points had he hit his free throws better?

He’s really good, very young and his potential is through the roof. Great solid young player.

I believe you had your best game in the Pro B so far with a 21/14/6 stat line. Is it fair to say that your getting used to the Pro B?

Honestly Miles, I been used to Pro B. I´m a Pro A, BBL player and I still truly believe that. I had great stats playing Pro B teams in preseason when I was a part of SV Haspe 70 last year in R1. We played great Pro B teams like the Kangaroos and Rheinstars. I’m just getting comfortable with the plays and how to be the best me in this new system and organization. Thanks to the coaching staff and players for being patient with me and helping me by putting me in situations to make the best play possible for the team rather than for myself.

You only took 1 three pointer. Were you happy with your shot selection?

Yes sir, I just play and let the defender control what shot he wants me to take. I´m a 3 level scorer. I have seen a lot of open lanes for drives and I took advantage of the switches when the smaller defenders were on me by posting up. I really just take what they give me and although they had length at nearly every position, I was able to be aggressive and attack the basket.

After a monster game like that, what do you personally work on in the lab?

I will continue to work on everything I’ve been working on. Nothing will change. I’m not satisfied and I know I have even higher levels I can reach to help us be successful.

You next battle Iserlohn who has an identical record with Ibbenburen. How big will this game be and what will be key for keeping the winning streak alive?

We have a lot of pressure lifted off of us after our first win but I’m expecting us to go in the game like we still have yet to win a game. I’ll make sure my team knows the importance of every game and I’m sure our coaching staff will do the same. Also, I know the fans are ready for another great showing. They deserve it and we’ll try our best to make it happen.

Thanks Ricardo for the chat.

Shawn Scott (185-G-1996, college: SW Christian) is a 27 year old 185cm guard playing his third professional season and first with BG Hagen. Last season he split time with TVO Biggesee / TV Jahn Lindhorst (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 31.2ppg, 10.4rpg, 6.1apg, 3.6spg, 2FGP: 56.2%, 3FGP: 30.4%, FT: 77.6%, in Jan.’23 moved to BG 2000 Berlin (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 14.2ppg, 8.1rpg, 4.6apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 64.4%. he began his career at Jenks High School and then played 3 seasons at Southwestern Christian University. He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.

BG Hagen lost their first game of the season to Hamm 92-84. How tough is losing that first game after starting the season undefeated?

Of course we wanted to keep the winning streak going so we’re definitely disappointed about the loss but it’s just one game and we keep moving and focus on the next one.

Talk a little about the 40 minutes. Was the game as tight as the end result showed?

The game was for sure tight to the end and we were able to force overtime for the third time this season.

BG Hagen did a good job taking care of the ball but was the game lost on the boards?

Most definitely. We are a fast paced team and when we couldn’t control the boards, we weren’t able to get out in transition and get easy buckets.

What positives could BG Hagen take out of the game? On what areas of the game does the team have to work on?

That we don’t give up. We were able to bring the game to overtime after most would say that the game was over before then but there’s no quit in us. We 100% have to improve on our defense. It was an embarrassing showcase and we will continue to struggle if we don’t fix it.

Hamm guard Gilbert Gyamfi scored 25 points. What was toughest in trying to slow him down?

He hit some tough shots at the end of the game but I think it was a little difficult when he posted up on the block and we had to double him and he was making the right reads.

Quincy Tjon Affo gave good support with 24 points. Is he a player that can give this kind of production on a regular basis?

For sure. He has very good touch on the ball and is athletic so we definitely make sure he gets his touches every game.

You had another sold game with 25 points and 19 rebounds. How much do the 5 missed free throws bug you, or was it more the 5 turnovers?

The 5 missed free throws bugged me the most because they were all at the end of the game to either win or tie it so I’m definitely disappointed in myself for that and will make sure it doesn’t happen again.

BG Hagen next battle the Lowen who are at 2-4. What will be key to starting a new winning streak?

Just putting this game behind us and moving forward and focus this week on how to beat them. We will be more harder on each other about defense because if we don’t fix it now then it will continue as far as playoffs. No more talking about it, it’s time to take action.

Thanks Shawn for the chat.

pic credit: Korniza KB Peja

Every once in a while I get an email or whatsApp message from a player where I can exsert a smile and feel really good for a moment. You know that getting that feeling of thankfulness. I interview guys almost on a daily basis since 20 years and for me it has really become as automatic as Steph Curry draining a three pointer, Lionel Messi scoring another goal or Eddie Murphy telling a joke. I know in a way that most guy´s appreciate the opportunity to get an interview from me and then they can go wild and tell me their basketball life story. No story is the same. That is what really fascinates me most about being able to have this special relationship with ballers overseas. Ok so every once in a while I interview a current NBA player like I did recently with Haywood Highsmith who reached the NBA final with the Miami Heat, but mostly I stick to the guys overseas if it´s that Euroleague player or that guy grinding in the Regionalliga in some small town somewhere in the woods 100 kilometers from the next big city. Most guys say thank you, but every once in a while, I get a little bit more than just thank you. That happened last week, when I decided to interview a player who like so many others in Europe are trying to continue to climb the basketball ladder to higher leagues and more dough. The player that I´m talking about is Jay Jay Chandler III (193-G-1998, college: USA) a guy who has to wake up now every morning in Kosovo while his boyhood friend De´Aaron Fox is earning millions in the NBA. He is a player that actually didn´t start in JUCO, but began and finished in the NCAA with Texas A&M and then strung on an extra season at the University of South Alabama. It is often the guys that played in JUCO that are most thankful, but every now and then you get that player who actually played at a higher level appreciates being noticed. The guard played a strong rookie season in the rich and beautiful country Switzerland and this season is seeing another part of Europe in Kosvo which is a lot different than the seemingly care free life in and around the Swiss Alpes. He made my day the other day with basically one sentence which often can leave that long impression which is something not everyone is able to do in life. “I wanted to say thank you for taking the time to interview me and being able to recognize myself and my basketball ability. Hope we are able to do more of these”, stated Jay Jay Chandler III. The words made me so happy that I wrote him back with these words. Thanks for your effort and your kind words. Believe me I have interviewed more than 1800 players in my career and seldom do I get that kind of thankfulness that you wrote me. I´m very pleased that you enjoyed doing it”. I can say now that it would be a massive pleasure to talk basketball with him again.

Jay Jay Chandler III who lists Jayson Tatum and his AAU teammates Carsen Edwards and De´Aaron Fox as being his toughest opponents so far in his career is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Katy, Texas a city that brought the world country singer Clint Black, actress Renee Zellweger and basketball players DeÁaron Fox and Josh Nebo who was a NCAA teammate with Chandler. Even if Katy only has a population of 24,000, everybody knows everybody at least in basketball circles. “Growing up we didn´t live too far away from each other and despite them being at a different high school than I, we still spent a lot of time in the gym over the summers and high school days. Once Nebo and I got to college, our friendship continued until today and we still talk. I have been playing with De´Aaron Fox since our early AAU days and once we got to the EYBL level we were on the Houston Hoops team along with Robert Williams, Jarred Vanderbilt and Carson Edwards. They are still my boys today and we still chop it up throughout the course of our seasons now”, stressed Jay Jay Chandler III. But the three did attend different high schools as Fox and Nebo went to Cypress Lakes high school and Chandler went to Cinco high school. He then attended Texas A&M from 2017-2021 amassing a total of 110 NCAA games. He only averaged 3,6ppg, but got the thrill of his life reaching the NCAA Sweet 16 as a freshman. The school began beating Providence and lost to Michigan, but in between upset North Carolina 86-65 playing 15 minutes and registering 3/3/2 stats. It is a moment he will never forget. “Playing in the Staples center and seeing all the celebrities courtside and being able to play on the court with a lot of really good players. But one thing that I’ll always remember was looking up and seeing Kobe’s retired jersey hanging in the rafters along with all the other great Laker players. That just made me take the game even more seriously”, remembered Jay Jay Chandler III. In his freshman season he also had the opportunity to meet a young man by the name of Robert Williams who has given so much joy to the Boston Celtics and despite being diagnosed with PAES has had a great pro career. “Rob and I played AAU together in the EYBL with the Houston Hoops where we were able to build a bond and it just continued whenever I got to Texas A&M. Rob’s my guy, like a big brother to me. Playing with him is something every guard dreams off. Having someone at the rim that’s going to block anything that comes his way on the defensive end and on the offensive end you could throw a lob to the sky and somehow Rob was coming down with a dunk”, smiled Jay Jay Chandler III who will never forget his 1-1 battles in practice with Quenton Jackson.

Jay Jay Chandler and DeÁaron Fox in AAU

The talented guard who names Savion Flagg, De’Aaron Fox, Robert Williams, Admon Gilder, Josh Nebo, Dj Hogg, Charles Manning, Tj Starks, and Wendell Mitchell as his best teammates of all-time averaged 8,0ppg twice in his sophomore and senior seasons and scored 18 points in his second season against power house Kentucky in a loss but held his own against many future NBA players like Tyler Herro, Immanuel Quickly and PJ Washington. A game like that still keeps his NBA dream alive today. “Just from the simple fact I have been playing against or with many guys that are in the NBA. It’s my dream to play with the best of the best”, warned Jay Chandler. A game of a player can develop nicely under one head coach, but sometimes a player has the luxury of having more than one like he did learning from Bill Kennedy and Buzz Williams. “They both have 2 different coaching styles but both good coaches. BK helped me to keep my confidence up and helped me get the understanding of the game at the college level while also helping me to understand my strong points. Buzz helped me to understand that if I want to be great, I’m going to have to work harder for it everyday and to never take the easy road but to look the challenge in the eye and attack it before it attacks you”, commented Jay Jay Chandler III. He had other great games there against Washington and LSU netting 21 points a piece. He added a 5th season in the NCAA with the University of South Alabama (NCAA) averaging 15.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 77.1%. He averaged 29 minutes per game, 6 more than the most he got at Alabama and all in all, the development continued well under Richie Riley. “Coach Riley helped me develop by helping me understand when to get to my spots on the court that I flourish best at and just giving me the ability to showcase my talent for those that might have had doubt about my skill level. So my last year at South Alabama I was on a mission to prove myself and the coaching staff stayed on me and helped me do that”, expressed Jay Jay Chandler III. He scored in double figures in 25 of 29 games. He scored 20 points or more 9 times and his highest was 26 points against Georgia State and Troy. It was no surprise which of these 2 games was most memorable. “Troy was South Alabama’s rival so the atmosphere in the gym was crazy. You could feel the tension from both teams and the fans, days before the game, so I had to show up for them”, added Jay Jay Chandler III.

The Texas native who lists Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Houston James Harden, himself, and Allen Iverson on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore played his rookie season with BBC Monthey (Switzerland-SBL) averaging 16.9ppg, 5.7rpg, 3.2apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 25.8%, FT: 76.5%. There aren´t many guys from Katy, Texas that can say they lived in the breathtaking country of Switzerland, so it was only logical that he wasn´t just around the corner when he saw the scenery. “I knew I was a long way from home when I landed in Geneva and saw those mountains. I’m from Houston Texas and have never seen mountains like that, to be honest. So just coming to the realization that this is a grind and that I have to stay focused to reach my goals and stay on myself to get better everyday while I was out there”, remembered Jay Jay Chandler III. He also got his first taste of the post season overseas and had to swallow a bitter pill getting swept by Fribourg despite averaging 15/5/3 in the 3 game series. “Fribourg was a good team. They had many players that have been in that position before, in their career. And playing them multiple times throughout the season helped them get the feel with my team’s strong and weak points”, said Jay Jay Chandler III. He scored in double figures in 27 of 33 games and scored 20 points or more 12 times including exploding for 32 points against Geneva. Long time overseas veteran Kevin Langford was his teammate and the perfect guy to show him the ropes. “I talked to Kev quite a bit especially with us both being from Texas, it helped us connect. He also would help me on how to play this type defense and using him to get each other to our comfortable spots on the floor”, added Jay Jay Chandler III.

Jay Jay Chandler and Jarred Vanderbilt

The 193cm guard who lists his pops as his GOAT is playing his second pro season in Kosovo with KB Peja in the Kosovo-Superliga). Despite Kosovo not being a rich country like Switzerland, his experience hasn´t been a culture shock, but the league is different to what he saw as a rookie in the mountains. ”It is definitely different than Switzerland. Peja has been treating me well. The community and fans are really engaged with the basketball scene and they show crazy love. The main difference I’ve learned from both leagues is the physical level. Here in Kosovo the refs allow you to be a little more physical, in a way. So just playing stronger and more physically is something I’ve been working on more since arriving. I’m still working on every other skill to help maximize my game and ability to increase overall”, stated Jay Jay Chandler III. He is on a team that has many Americans and even a veteran with Malcolm Armstead, it must still feel like college again? “We all came from different types of backgrounds on the college level so connecting with them on and off the court has allowed us to build a bond and to stay on each other everyday, in practice, to make each other better. I probably have bonded with Malcolm the most. Just learning from him and him helping me with how to view some aspects of the game has been helping me the most. His experience and leadership role he has on this team and me especially, has helped me a lot. He’s always talking to me on how to improve my play and staying on me to stay focused to reach my dreams in this game, we both love”, stressed Jay Jay Chandler III. The club has many offensive weapons but also wants to focus on defense and have a high energy level from every player. The American currently is averaging 25,7ppg, 3,7rpg and 2,7apg while shooting out the lights at 54%. Last weekend he had his break out game exploding for 39 points in a win against Trepca. Despite his potent play so far, he is keeping an eye on a certain aspect. “Important for me is working on my pace and knowing when to attack and distribute to keep the defense on their toes. Also not taking plays off offensively and defensively. This is something that I’ve been working on with my coaches”, commented Jay Jay Chandler III.

The explosive scorer who didn´t see the sequel to the Classic movie Coming To America because of dismal reviews will play his first pro game in Germany this week in Chemnitz to tip off the Fiba Europe Cup season. Despite playing in Switzerland last season, he never made to Germany, but had been there before. “I know basketball in Germany is really competitive and a lot of great players have come through Germany and reached high levels in this profession. I wasn’t able to visit Germany my rookie year but I was able to play my first college game in Germany and was able to see the area”, remembers Jay Jay Chandler III. So what kind of player will fans see in Chemnitz this week. He is a guy that tries to take bits and pieces from many players and has heard comparisons to guys like De’Aaron Fox, Ja Morant, Manu Ginobili and James Harden. Even if he has released his scoring animal in Kosovo, he is a guy that could be called a versatile player who was close to a triple double against the Starwings in Switzerland last season. “I like to go out each game and play a complete game to help do whatever my team needs to get the win. From scoring to grabbing rebounds and facilitating to my teammate for open shots, I’m going to do it. And on the defensive side guarding the other teams best players to make the game tougher for them, is something I always look forward to”, commented Jay Jay Chandler III. He is also very focused on becoming a better three point shooter and being feared as a defender. “I need to be selective on which 3s to take and continuing to have confidence in the work I put in working on them in practice and translating it to the games. I can still get better on the defensive side of course. But continuing on being a pest for my opponent and not letting them get anything easy and just keeping them uncomfortable”, stressed Jay Jay Chandler III. After being teammates and playing with elite guys like De`Aaron Fox or Carson Edwards, it is only logical that he wants to become the best version of himself so he can continue to climb the basketball ladder overseas. “I want to also improve my IQ. I feel I have all the attributes to be a great basketball player. I will just continue to get better in everything from taking care of my body to my skill level on the court and continuing being a student of the game”, warned Jay Jay Chandler III. It will be interesting to see where his journey goes in the next years. If he has a great season in Kosovo and the Fiba Europe Cup, then I could see him making the jump to the easyCredt BBL in Germany next season. Often in the last seasons, one has seen guys who especially played well against German BBL teams in the Fiba Europe Cup competition land in Germany the next season. No matter where he goes, I can imagine doing a second interview with him. Who knows, if he has an explosive game in his Fiba Europe Cup debut in Chemnitz, that second interview may come sooner than later.

Tarik Phillip (191-G, college: WVU, agency: Diamond Sports) is a 30 year old 191cm guard from Brooklyn, New York playing his 7thz professional season and second with the London Lions (BBL). He has played in countries like Hungary, Israel, Turkey, Italy and Spain. He began his basketball career at Brooklyn College Academy and then played 1 year at Independence Community College (JUCO). He played 3 seasons and 106 NCAA games with West Virginia University (JUCO). He spoke to germanhoops.com after a Eurocup game against the Hamburg Towers.

Thanks Tarik for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

Thank you for taking the time to interview with me and I am currently in London United Kingdom . Basketball is going great . We started off the season great and I am blessed to be playing a game I love.

Your 30 years old and won your first chip with the London Lions last season. Could the London Lions be a club where you could imagine maybe finishing your career with?

It was surreal that I was able win a championship last year with a great group of guys and London is a great city, one of the best in the world and I wouldn’t mind finishing my career here at all . The organization is great the fans are great and my team is family .

You played with 7 pro clubs before coming to London last season and won your first title. What was so special about that team?

The difference between the clubs I played for in the past and last season title win was the family oriented vibe that we made with one another

This season the London Lions are stacked again and the heavy favorite in the BBL. Is this club stronger than last season?

This club is different than last season I don’t want to see better because both teams were constructed a little different

Two seasons ago you split time with Umana Reyer Venezia (Italy-Serie A) averaging 6.8ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 40.9%, 3FGP: 34.3%, FT: 75.0%, in Jan.’22 moved to Hereda San Pablo Burgos (Spain-Liga ACB averaging 7.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 38.1%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 81.5%. What is always the most difficult thing for you personally when you play for 2 clubs in one season? You had already done it a few times so far?

The most difficult thing is learning new people and learning new cultures. The style of play can change a bit but at the end of the day it’s still basketball.

In Venice you played with veteran point guard Julyan Stone who had played in the NBA. What was it like playing together with a real old school style playmaker who always has his teammates in his focus first?

Julyan Stone was a great player for me to learn from. I learned a lot of how to run a point guard position and get players involved and being effective without scoring the ball all the time.

You then played in Europes best country league ACB in Spain with Burgos. You held your own against top Euroleague team FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. Was there a particular instance that you haven’t forgotten from one of those games?

I’ve played so many games since then but those prestigious teams you always come ready to play and so exactly what you’re made of.

In the 2020-2021 season you split time with Hapoel Jerusalem (Israel-Winner League) and in Nov.’20 moved toTofas Bursa (Turkey-BSL) averaging 13.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 5.0apg, Steals-1 (2.3spg), FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 78.5%; and in the Basketball Champions League averaged 14.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 4.0apg, Steals-1 (2.2spg), FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 80.6%. Despite being in Israel for only a short time, you still finished the season strong in Turkey despite Covid. What personally was the toughest challenge for you in this season with Covid?

Splitting time between Tofas and Jerusalem was great for my career despite Covid. The challenges I faced during the Covid season was very difficult isolating and being alone from family friends and loved ones.

In Israel you were teammates for a short time with Chris Kramer who once made a bucket in the NCAA while sitting on the floor. I remember him as being an unbelievable nasty defender in the BBL in Germany. How will you remember him best?
o

Chris Kramer is a household name a great player someone that I’ve learned from a lot in my career as well and a great team player.

Was your season in Bursa one of your best offensive seasons overseas? You had some really skilled offensive players on the team?

I would have to say playing in Bursa with Tofas was one of my best oversee seasons I felt at home there and very comfortable on and off the court.

In the 2018-2019 season you played with the Memphis Hustle (NBA G League) averaging 14.1ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.8apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 50.1%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 78.3% You really got going in December and were consistent the rest of the way and had a 48 point explosion. Do you feel like you were ever near to an NBA call up?

I ended up getting a call up at the end of the year with the Washington Wizards which was converted into a nonguaranteed deal

What memories do you have of that incredible 48 point game against Long Island. I guess the only unfitting thing to the night was you lost the game. That game showed you could play in the NBA. You were the best player on the court that showcased many former NBA players on the court? You hit 7/8 three’s.

Memories of that game was just my family yelling and screaming my name. It was one of the first time seeing me play in the G league.

The next season you were signed by the Washington Wizards but opted to go to Europe. Did the NBA let you down?

No the NBA did not let me down I did not get a chance to play due to an injury.

What do you remember being the best example you saw where the NBA will always be a business first before anything else?

You see it all the time with players , when they get traded from teams that they love and cities that they’ve raise families in.

You played in 2019-2020 for Tofas Bursa (Turkey-BSL) averaging 11.6ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 80.4% in the Eurocup. What was it like sharing the court with Matt Lojeski? He was a guy that had just come off 6 Euroleague seasons in Greece. I can imagine his experience was vital for a guy like you coming overseas for the second time after your G-League stint

Matt Lojeski is a heck of a player definitely taught me a lot especially since you’ve he’s played at the highest level for so many years. Saw the game from a different perspective and also learned a lot from him , and great off the court as well!

You split your rookie season with Szolnoki Olajbanyasz (Hungary-A Division avergaing 5.0ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 48.9%, 3FGP: 25.9%, FT: 47.6%, in Feb.’18 moved to Cocinas.com CB Clavijo Logrono (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 10.6ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 67.7%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew you were far away from home?

My wake up call overseas I believe was was living alone and the language barrier becoming a factor. Also playing against high-level guys that knew the game and not only had skills opposed to college.

In Hungry you stayed a few months. You were teammates with Americans Kendrick Perry and Quincy Ford. What memories do you have of this stay? Could you get any positives form it?

Perry was very vital in my rookie year he taught me how to become a professional. Spoke about a lot of things he went through in the past overseas his first couple of years, good and the bad and overall a great mentor and is having a great career overseas. Quincy Ford was like a brother to me and I was also learning from Kendrick and learning overseas life as well.

You closed out your rookie season in Spain and finished strongly. The Leb Gold at times seems to be an underrated league. It seemed to fit your playing style perfectly?

There is great talent in the Leb gold league and basketball played the correct way which is often devalued in America . It was more so reading and understanding the game more than talent.

You began your college career at Independence Community College (JUCO) averaging 18.7ppg, 6.7rpg, 4.7apg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 69.4%. Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO have said it was a tough time, but a very important one in their development as a player and man. How was it for you?

Playing at independence community college was definitely a growing experience a much-needed lifestyle change as well. JUCO gave me extra time to work on my game and my body and made me ready for the next level.

You then played at West Virginia from 2014-2017 playing a total of 106 NCAA games. You reached 3 NCAA tournaments and 2 Sweet 16’2. You were blown out by Kentucky and lost a 3 point game to Gonzaga. What was your personal sweetest moment in that tournament?

I believe my sweetest moment in the NCAA tournament had to been hitting go ahead bucket versus Buffalo.

What memories do you have of that massive Kentucky team. A starting 5 of future NBA players including Karl Anthony Towns and Devin Booker from the bench. Was that the greatest Kentucky team ever?

That had to be one of the best Kentucky teams ever. The team was stacked and they had over 10 NBA players . A very talented team and surprising that they want it all.

You had many great personal games like against Texas Tech and Iowa State, but what was your most memorable game?

My most memorable game has to be at Texas Tech where I scored eight points to help bring my team back to defend an upset .

How did Bob Huggins groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Bob Huggins helped groom and prepare me for my professional career because he demanded accountability ,hard work, and challenged you to be the best you.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jevon Carter?

Never played but I will win lol

Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Buddy Hield

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Jevon carter
Teyvon Meyers
Devin Williams
Semaj christon
Sam Dekker

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron
Jordan
Kobe
Shaq

Who is your GOAT and why?

Lebron . I feel as though he can dominate the game in every way rebounding passing scoring guarding the best player, and Iq off the charts

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

I have seen coming to America and I enjoyed the second sequel as well it was entertaining and it was very funny.
Thanks Tarik for the chat.

One often says it seems like it was yesterday, but when one looks back and thinks about the easyCredit BBL battles between the Fraport Skyliners and Gartenzaun24 Baskets, it really seems like it was ages ago. The last time these 2 clubs battled against each other in the BBL, it had been in Quantez Robertson´s rookie season while some of his teammates included legends Pascal Roller and Derrick Allen. Now 14 seasons later, the 2 organizations met again, but in the second league called Pro A. The Fraport Skyliners want to get back to the easyCredit BBL as rapidly as possible and began well at 2-0 while Paderborn started 1-1. Quantez Robertson may be gone, but one player is still around from the BBL glory days and that is Steve Esterkamp who has coached the team for years now. The clubs met on a cool Sunday afternoon as Autum had landed and the Fraport Skyliners performed an incredible almost crazy like first half offensive show that pretty much decided the game after 20 minutes as the Gartenzaun24 Baskets were miles away and got trampled badly 95-56. Frankfurt led by 58-19 at the break and finally gave the fans an offensive explosion something that had been missing the last 2 years as they were in the cellar of the BBL. Having an almost perfect half is somethings seldom seen. “I had a few halves like this. In the 2023 title game at Carleton, I had something like 18 points at the break and last season in pre season I had 18 points. Everything was working for us and me”, smilied Fraport Skyliner guard Aiden Warnholtz (188-G-2000, college: Carleton). It was only understandable that Frankfurt couldn´t duplicate the first half in the second half, but still scored 38 points while Paderborn improved from 19 points to 36 points. “We hit a lot in the first half and defended well not giving them easy shots. We slipped a bit in the third quarter and weren´t as sharp. You naturally slow down when your leading by so much. But good teams take an opportunity like that to form good habits and take the game as if it were 0-0. You try to get better and that is what we tried”, warned Aiden Warnholtz. Paderborn got in a hole early and never recovered even if they did improve their play and played Frankfurt 37-37 in the second half. “Frankfurt is a really good team. We let them dictate how we should play. We didn´t move the ball well or take care of the ball well. Being down by 39 points is simply absurd. If we had played in the first half the way we did in the second half, it would have been a tighter game. When we paly the way we know how then we can play with anyone. We played better in the second half, but there is still room for improvement. I´m proud how we didn´t let the game become embarrassing. It was one of those days where the basket looked 3 times bigger for Frankfurt”, stressed Paderborn center Julian Roche.

Julian Roche at the FT line

The Fraport Skyliners began their offense and just took it play by play and executed beautifully and before anybody really knew it, it was 13-0 for the home team. Ex Indiana State guard Cameron Henry began with a lay in which was followed by a Warnholtz lay in on transition. Then it was time for ex Augsburg (NCAA3) scoring sensation Booker Coplin to drop back to back three´s. Veteran Marco Voeller who was teammates with Robin Benzing more than a decade ago in Langen hit the next three pointer and suddenly it was truly raining three´s in Frankfurt. In between the Fraport Skyliners had come to play on the defensive end producing 6 stops with aggressive defense where they didn´t allow much room for the opponent which resulted in 3 turnovers. The guests finally got on the board at the 6,02 minute mark as ex easyCredit BBL player Lars Lagerpusch who has 71 BBL games on his record made a lay in. With every new bucket, the self-confidence rose with Frankfurt as Warnholtz added 5 points in a row with a nifty reverse lay up and three pointer and Coplin hit his third trey of the quarter as Frankfurt led 21-4. Canadian Julian Roche found some daylight and didn´t leave the first quarter like a total joke as he added 5 points. Frankfurt also got free throws from Alvin Onyia who has 8 BBL games on his record and Canadian David Muenkat as the Fraport Skyliners led comfortably 28-12. After 10 minutes. The shooting percentage of Frankfurt was insane as they shot 82% from the field and 100% from outside. One has to wonder if Frankfurt got the ultimate breakfast for champions? “I don´t know what was up, but maybe Frankfurt got some secret juice to drink. Booker hit 2 three´s and then everyone felt like they could hit shots. Those three´s got the team going. I felt like we had the better individual players then them and we did get 3 good days of preparation”, stressed Fraport Skyliner Felix Hecker. The Gartenzaun24 Baskets Paderborn shot a poor 38% from the field and 25% from outside while Frankfurt had 4 rebounds and 4 turnovers while the guests grabbed 6 rebounds, but coughed up the ball 9 times.

Alvin Oniya at the FT line

Nothing changed in the second quarter as the Fraport Skyliners continued to execute at a high rate and saw the hole as the ocean as shots were falling and falling. Young German Justin Onyejiaka who played his first game after injury nailed a trey for the 31-12 advantage as he would continue to impress in the second half. Frankfurt didn´t lose any of their defensive intensity as they made 5 stops and added a lay in from David Muenkat for the 33-12 lead. Paderborn was playing too much 1-1 and just couldn´t match the impressive team mentality that Frankfurt showed. Ex Rollins (NCAA2) scorer Hutton Yenor finally got the guests on the board with a tap in at the 6,45 minute mark. The Fraport Skyliners had no offensive lapses as their onslaught continued with a lethal 14-2 run to extend their lead to 47-16 advantage. Warnholtz continued to be a powerful scorer adding 2 three´s and a turnaround shot as he was still perfect on the evening and the club also got lay in´s from German Jordan Samare, David Muenkat and Booker Coplin with the perfect bullet pass from Henry on the back door cut. Frankfurt heightened their defensive intensity in the second quarter giving Paderborn nothing easy with aggressive man defense and clogging of the paint area as there was really nowhere to go. Frankfurt only allowed 7 points as their defense was simply spot on. They closed on the second quarter with another three as Coplin scored and Samare and Muenkat also scored in the paint as there was little resistance by the guests. “We took our great play from the first quarter into the second quarter and played even better defense. The self-confidence continues to grow and more crazy shots are made. We did a good job switching on the smaller guys. The only little negative thing was a few offensive rebounds given up, but other than that, it was another very strong quarter”, stated Felix Hecker. The Fraport Skyliners continued to shoot out the lights at 77% from the field and 91% from the three point line and they had 15 rebounds and 7 turnovers while Gartenzaun24 Baskets Paderborn shot 27% from the field and 14% from the three point line and 11 rebounds and 14 turnovers.

Booker Coplin from outside

It was obvious it would be very difficult to continue to shoot out the lights and the guests also got better actually winning the third quarter 20-18. Frankfurt continued to defend with passion and high intensity, but offensively they only got 4 points out of 5 stopped possessions of Paderborn to begin the second half. Frankfurt took some tempo out of the game and now it was all about managing the lead the best they could. Justin Onyejaika continued to get extensive minutes and did a great job with shot selection and execution. He made a pretty coast to coast run and lay up while Aiden Warnholtz a lay in and free throw for the 70-24 lead. But Paderborn could only be so bad for so long and finally got some offense going closing out the third quarter with a positive 16-6 run to trail 76-39 after 30 minutes. With improved ball movement and some less defensive intensity by Frankfurt led to less contested shots and better execution. Julian Roche was aggressive and often was put into good position to score as he produced 8 points. Yenor made another bucket and ex Giessen guard Lucas Mayer also scored on transition. Frankfurt got little offense going except for Onjejaika continuing to execute as he scored 5 points. “They won the third quarter. We had less urgency and allowed them to execute easier. They got to the foul line more and had shots fall”, added Aiden Warnholtz. “We did a better job moving the ball and got stops and rebounds. We took the opportunity to work on things and try to get better”, added Julian Roche. The shooting percentages continued to dip for the Fraport Skyliners as they shot 59% from the field and 55% from the parking lot and had 27 rebounds and 13 turnovers while Gartenzaun24 Baskets Paderborn shot 32% from the field and 20% form the parking lot and had 17 rebounds and 19 turnovers.

Lars Lagerpusch at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the big lead of the Fraport Skyliners didn´t get more or less as both teams executed their offenses well as Frankfurt won the last quarter 19-17. Justin Onyejaika began the fourth quarter off with a massive bang as he leaped up and threw down a high alley op pass from Cameron Henry for the 78-41 lead. “I was on the bench and saw the play being drawn up. I thought the pass thrown by Cam may have been too high, but somehow Justin got up there. I knew he could jump. It was fun to watch”, said Aiden Warnholtz. Onyejaika continued to score in the paint area. He finished with an incredible game of 21 points in 18 minutes. “Justin had a good game. He brings a lot of energy. He is super athletic and more skilled than what I first thought. He has good passing qualities and plays aggressive”, warned Aiden Warnholtz. The Paderborn offense had better ball movement and that was due to the solid playmaking by Lucas Mayer who finished with 7 points and 8 dimes. “I have a lot of respect for him. He leads us well. He keeps his head down and is a hard worker. He had a few turnovers in the first half where he had the right idea but it was wrong timing. It is still early in the season, but I have no doubt that he will continue to help us”, warned Julian Roche. Mayer made a beautiful finger tip lay in, block and set up guys like Hutton Yenor and California native Zach Chappel for three pointers. Aiden Warnholtz´s last basket was a lay in and with so much scoring having happened, it never occurred to me that he had had a perfect shooting day with 8/8 from the field and 5/5 from the free throw line. “I don´t think that I did anything different than in the first games. I had shots that fell today. I have games where shots don´t fall. I put in a lot of work and I´m not worried when I have a few games where shots aren´t falling. It was nice to see them fall today”, expressed Aiden Warnholtz. German Jacon Knauf also got into the scoring fun making a massive put back dunk and 20 footer from the wing. Hutton Yenor scored the last bucket of the contest. “They mix ed up the zone on is, but I still think that we did a decent job getting good shots. We made good adjustments and pushed the ball when we needed to”, commented Aiden Warnholtz. “I felt we played a good fourth quarter and could leave Frankfurt on a positive note. One of my old coaches always said that it is never as bad as it seems. We will watch film and learn from it”, stated Julian Roche. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Aiden Warnholtz with 24 points. Justin Onyejaika had 21 points while Booker Coplin chipped in with 19 points. Gartenzaun24 Baskets were led by Julian Roche with 17 points while Hutton Yenor had 13 points. The Fraport Skyliners shot 55% from the field and 54% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 16 turnovers while Gartenzaun24 Baskets Paderborn shot 31% from the field and 22% from outside and had 26 rebounds and 22 turnovers.

The Fraport Skyliners may have landed in the Pro A this season and won´t be able to battle the big mighty FC Bayern Munich, but that doesn´t stop fans from being able to see Germany´s most famous sports organization in Frankfurt this season. Ok so the farm team FC Bayern Munich don´t have ex NBA players Serge Ibaka or Carsen Edwards, but they do have some of it´s countries youngest and most talented guys like Ivan Kharchenkov and Martin Kalu. Both clubs began a little under the weather coming into the fourth game of the season with identical 1-2 records. After losing it´s second game of the season, the club regrouped last week winning an exciting 84-80 game against the aspiring farm club Orange Academy of ratiopharm Ulm without Kharchenkov. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors on the other had began the season on a high with a massive home win over Breitengussbach, but then got cold in Leitershofen scoring only 50 points and last weekend had a long 2 hour drive home after succumbing to the Dragons Rhondorf in double overtime 106-99. This game was definitely a stepping stone for Frankfurt to get back to their winning ways. On a cool autumn Saturday night, FC Bayern Munich arrived on the floor with not only their 2 massive young guns Ivan Kharchenkov and Martin Salu, but also Montenegran national player Dino Radoncic who at age 23 played 3 years with Real Madrid and made his Euroleague debut at age 16. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors definitely had their hands full as their walking wounded list was still as long as the Brooklyn bridge. FC Bayern Munich overpowered Frankfurt from the start and the Juniors had to play pick up basketball until the end losing 80-65. “They definitely had a talented team, but in general we have to be better than the way we were. We had no energy on defense and allowed them to start well. We played better defense from the second quarter to the end. But we didn´t execute the way we should of on offense. Everything we did seemed like 50%, stated Fraport Skyliner Junior Felix Hecker. FC Bayern Munich had a very young team and excelled with their trio of Radoncic, Kharchenkov and Kalu who combined for 51 points. All in all it was a positive day at the office for FC Bayern Munich. “We played well for 35 minutes. We had a down phase in the third quarter where we allowed them to come back. But we stopped their run with good team defense and got easy baskets on transition”, stressed FC Bayern Munich guard Ivan Kharchenkov.

Trevian Bell With step back jumper

FC Bayern Munich 2 jumped all over the Fraport Skyliners Juniors in the first quarter taking a rapid 14-2 lead. FC Bayern Munich played aggressive defense from the start and forced Frankfurt too countless turnovers and rewarded themselves off their mistakes with easy baskets. Dino Radoncic scored 5 points in the run as did young talent Martin Kalu as their strength and athleticism was too much too handle for Frankfurt. Munich spread the offensive love around as energetic guard Dominic Dolic hit a mid distance shot and Ivan Volf made a thunderous dunk on transition after hauling in the touch down pass from Radoncic. Frankfurt lacked concentration in their offensive sets, but worked hard on the boards. But the Fraport Skyliners Juniors finally woke up in the last 5 minutes going on a 8-4 run to cut the guests lead to 18-10 after 10 minutes. Frankfurt came back by upping their intensity and making the right hustle plays at the right time. Ex Kronberg center Florian Dietrich made a tap in, ex Trier forward Nils Leonhardt a offensive rebound and put back while Jordan Samare finished in brute mode on transition with a hard dunk. FC Bayern Munich 2 shot solidly from the field at 47% and 40% from outside while Frankfurt shot a poor 24% from the field and pathetic 0% from outside. Frankfurt owned the boards 16-9 with 9-2 offensive rebounds, but had 7 turnovers while FC Bayern Munich had 3 turnovers. “Munich had the more talented team and it showed. Frankfurt worked hard on the boards, but just couldn´t stick with Munich”, stated Charlote Hornets scout Yassin Idbihi.

Dino Radoncic at the FT line

In the second quarter FC Bayern Munich continued to control the game well as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors continued to be inconsistent and just have difficulty on offensive execution. Frankfurt like in the first quarter had problems getting on the board as FC Bayern Munich stopped Frankfurt´s first 5 possessions. 3 level scorer Ivan Kharchenkov had missed his first 2 shots in the first quarter, but slowing him down over 40 minutes is tough. Sooner or later he will get going. He got his first bucket with a left handed lay in and then made a great play making a touch pass in Luka Doncic manner to Desmond Yiamu for the easy lay in as FC Bayern Munich led 23-10. Frankfurt finally got on the board with their first field goal at the 6,23 minute mark as Felix Hecker set up Jordan Samare for the easy lay in. Frankfurt had their moments on offense as Nils Leonhardt sunk a trey after receiving the perfect kick out pass from Philipp Hadenfeldt as Frankfurt trailed only 23-15. But whenever Frankfurt was creeping back, FC Bayern Munich had an answer. Walking bucket Ivan Kharchenkov displayed his versatile offense making a 20 footer off the glass and then a thunderous dunk for the 27-15 advantage.”Kharchenkov is one of Germany´s biggest talents. His physicality and shot stand out most. Pablo Laso has shown in the past that he likes to play young players. I think Ivan will get his minutes for the BBL team”, commented Yassin Idbihi. Frankfurt retaliated with baskets from Illinois native Trevian Bell and Florian Dietrich, but Kalu dropped a trey as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors trailed 30-20. FC Bayern Munich continued to play good team basketball, but they couldn´t stop the individual class of Kharchenkov and Kalu. Frankfurt´s offense was more fluid thanks to the fine playmaking of Hadenfeldt and they continued to work hard on the glass. Bot teams executed well until half-time as FC Bayern Munich got baskets from Radoncic with a lay in, Kalu drilled home another three pointer and Dolic hit a 15 footer while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors got support from Jordan Samare and Alvin Onyia with lay ins as Frankfurt trailed 37-24. FC Bayern Munich shot 56% from the field and 50% from the three point line while Frankfurt shot 26% from the field and 6% from the three point line. Munich upped their rebounding as they only trailed Frankfurt 23-20, but 13-2 on the offensive glass and had 8 turnovers in the second quarter and 11 in total as Frankfurt only had 10 turnovers. “Frankfurt came back with fight but all in all didn´t create good enough shots. Frankfurt defended well, but couldn´t play their game on offense”, expressed Yassin Idbihi.

Florian Dietrich with the lay in

The Fraport Skyliners Juniors played their best basketball in the third quarter, but still couldn´t get over the hump and get the lead. Dolic got FC Bayern Munich on the board first with a lay in, but the Fraport Skyliners Juniors then finally found a healthy offensive groove going on a 10-0 run to cut the guests lead down to 39-34. In the run the Fraport Skyliners Juniors did a fine job attacking the paint area getting buckets from Jordan Samare who scored twice and Hecker once. Trevian Bell was always active and dangerous and when he had room from the three point line, he let it fly and scored a three pointer. FC Bayern Munich had lost their rhythm and just got away from their fluid team basketball while Frankfurt got no gifts, but had to work hard for everything. Kharchenkov and Bell traded three pointers as Frankfurt was still on Munich´s heels trailing 42-38. After a Dolic trey, it was Nils Leonhardt who showed his scoring in bunches scoring twice inside as Hadenfeldt gave him a shovel pass for the first basket and on the second, he spun to success and two points as Frankfurt trailed 47-42. But the Fraport Skyliners Juniors just couldn´t get over the hump as they couldn´t control Kalu who made a coast to coast run and lay in while Kharchenkov made a step back jumper and three pointer as FC Bayern Munich held on to a comfortable 57-47 advantage after 3 quarters. “We let up a bit. We were sloppy on offense and no had communication on defense. We thought the game was over, but we still had 10 minutes to play”, expressed Ivan Kharchenkov. “We finally hit shots. We also put more pressure on them with our defense. But their young guys continued to hit shots and up their confidence”, commented Felix Hecker. FC Bayern Munich shot 52% from the field and 47% from the parking lot and had 26 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 33% from the field and 12% from the parking lot and had 34 rebounds and 14 turnovers.

Dominic Dolic from outside

In the fourth quarter the Fraport Skyliners Juniors continued to fight back, but couldn´t cut the lead any lower than 8 points as FC Bayern Munich just continued to execute well and get support from many players. Radoncic got FC Bayern Munich on the board first with a lay in, but Jordan Samare who was with Trevian Bell Frankfurt´s best player on the night made a 3 point play to cut Munich´s lead to 59-51. But the guests always had an answer as Radoncic scored again with a tap in and Ivan Volf nailed a trey as Frankfurt trailed 64-51. FC Bayern Munich continued to have a good flow on offense and just too many weapons that executed when it was needed. Frankfurt was inconsistent and were always punished with their mistakes. Frankfurt was getting tired and gave up 2 baskets inside to Yiamu and Radoncic as FC Bayern Munich led 69-53. FC Bayern Munich then slammed the door shut on Frankfurt as Kharchenkov and Kalu dropped back to back three´s for the commanding 75-57 advantage. Kharcehnkov had made some tough shots but saved his best for last as he drilled home a long step back three that was so high, it seemed like it may scrape the ceiling, but didn´t. “I looked at the shot clock and saw 6 seconds. I didn´t see any space in the zone, so I opted to take the step back shot. I had a good feeling it would go in”, smiled Ivan Kharchenkov. Frankfurt got some clutch buckets in the last few minutes as Bell hit a three pointer and Florian Dietrich scored on transition, but it was too little too late as Frankfurt lost their third game of the season and FC Bayern Munich went to 2-2. “We played consistent defense and had less turnovers. We did the simple things well at a high level”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov. “They hit crazy shots. If you let them play, then they will make those shots. They play with a lot of self-confidence”, stated Felix Hecker. FC Bayern Munich was led by Dino Radoncic with 19 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists. Ivan Kharchenkov added 17 points and martin Kalu ahd 15 points while the Fraport skyliners Juniors were led by Jordan Samare and Trevian Bell with 14 points a piece. FC Bayern Munich shot 51% from the field and 42% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 16 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 34% from the field and 15% from outside and had 46 rebounds and 18 turnovers.

Quashawn Lane (188-G, college: New Haven) is a 188cm guard playing his rookie season in Germany for Pro A team Gartenzaun 24 Baskets. He began his basketball career at Trenton Catholic Academy. He then played at New Haven University (NCAA) from 2018-2023 playing a total of 106 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the game against the Fraport Skyliners.

Thanks Quashawn for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first professional season In Germany and living in Paderborn. What have you learned to appreciate the most about Germany?

Being in Germany has made me appreciate how big the world truly is outside of what we are used to. The differences in lifestyle, language, culture has all been a new and exciting experience for me.

Your playing your first season overseas with the Gartenzaun24 Baskets. What has been the biggest challenge for you on the court coming from the NCAA?

The subtle rule changes. There are some rules that differ from those back in the states. I think adjusting to that and the physicality was the most challenging in my first few weeks here in Germany.

The club has started 1-1. It lost the first game badly against Jena, but won their first of the season against Duesseldorf. The team is still finding itself. What do you feel is the club´s biggest strength on the court?

I think our biggest strength is how close we have been to grow to one another in such a short time. Everyone is close off the court and really enjoys being around each other. I think this allows us a deeper sense of togetherness when we are playing out there.

What have you learned to appreciate most about Yenor and Chappel´s games?

I really enjoy playing with them both. They both bring a sense of American style to the team, along with myself. They both have the ability to create their own shots, read the game, and get to their spots. I really enjoy watching them thrive and learning alongside them as we grow and improve everyday.

Have you seen Nicholas Buchholz shoot out the lights yet? How else will he help the team besides his knock down shooting?

Of course, he is a great shooter and when he gets hot, it could get scary. Outside of his shooting, he brings a lot more to the team. He is a versatile player that can play various positions and roles for the overall betterment of the team, offensively and defensively.

What kind of an experience has it been playing for head coach Steve Esterkamp? Is he a guy that gives you 100% freedom?

Playing for Steve has been really fun. He knows the game really well, Which I believe is constantly helping me grow as a player. The style we play is free but also structured and detailed. Steve puts each person on team in spots/positions that allows us to play at our strengths.

You shot an incredible 43% from outside all 4 years in the NCAA? You obviously have a lot of self-confidence now, but what goals do you have as a outside shooter when you already have incredible accuracy? I guess nonstop consistency has to be a goal?

I would not say I have certain goals. I train/play with the mindset of trying to make every shot. I feel as though if I am able to get a clean look at the basket, then there is no reason why I can’t make the shot. Obviously perfection is unattainable, but this mindset, I believe, has allow me to maintain a decent shooting efficiency overall.

What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I have always been a solid defender at all levels of my career. I’m quick enough to guard faster shorter guards, as well as tall and strong enough to affect bigger players as well. I just want my defensive nature to continue to improve as I continue to improve my overall game.

On what area´s of your game are you working on most now as you continue to improve your game?

Reading the game has been what I have been working on the most. The European style of basketball is faster paced than that of college. I am making strides to see things before they happen but the goal is to improve to be able to see everything before it happens, both on offense and defense.

You had St Anselm´s number as a senior winning 3 times and having greats coring games. What will you always remember from this school?

They have a great program over there. They always posed problems for us throughout my college career. It was really fun going up against them, we definitely had some great battles over the years.

How tough was the 20-21 season that wasn´t because Covid was there? What did you learn about yourself and your game in that year?

That season was very tough with all the restrictions and the season being canceled. Even through everything, that season gave me the ability to hone in on my skillset and really make a push into the next season. I worked out everyday that year and just focused on improving my mindset, as well as my overall game. It was a bitter sweet experience throughout that entire process.

How did head coach Ted Hotaling groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Well Coach Hotaling believed in me from day 1. He allowed me to make mistakes and really grow into what I became today. I appreciate him so much because he was tough on me when needed. Going through all the ups and downs, he stayed by my side, allowing me to improve and develop completely. He might not know, but I thank and admire him tremendously because he was a big part in me gaining the confidence I have today.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I cannot name top 5 best teammates from all time. I have had so many great teammates in my lifetime and I am thankful to have met so many real and genuine individuals. So many of my teammates helped me gain knowledge and a brotherhood that will last for life.

Who is your GOAT and why?

Kobe Bryant; Since I was young, I was always just memorized with how he played the game. All of his abilities on either side of the ball was just amazing to me. As I grew older and learned about his philosophies and dedication to the game, it stamped him being my GOAT over any other player ever. I even have a tattoo dedicated to him because of how much he inspired me.

Thanks Quashawn for the chat.