Pic credit: Maryland basketball

Patrick Emilien (201-F-1999, college Maryland) is a 24 year old 201cm forward from Toronto, Canada playing his rookie season in Europe for the Baskets Swans Gmunden. He began his basketball career at the Toronto Basketball academy. He then embarked on a 3 year journey with Western Michigan University (NCAA) playing a total of 77 games. He then played a season at St Francis College (NCAA) averaging 12.5ppg , 6.2rpg , 1.1apg , FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 11.1%, FT: 75.0%. He played hiss enior year at the University of Maryland (NCAA). He got his first pro experience down under with Casey Cavaliers Cranbourne (Australia-NBL One South): 10 games: 18.9ppg , 5.1rpg , 1.3apg , 2FGP: 53.7%, 3FGP: 27.6%, FT: 67.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a test game against German Pro A club Fraport Skyliners.

Thanks Patrick for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season in Europe for the Basket Swans Gmunden. What kind of an experience has it been for you so far? What have you learned to appreciate the most? How vital was already tasting experience in the last months in Australia and Canada for the adjustment period?

It was very important for me, I got the chance to experience a professional environment and develop my skills as a primary guy in Australia.

The club has won titles in the last years. Have you felt the tradition of having to win the early going?

Yes I have already felt the winning culture of the club so far everything is intense and done with a purpose, I’m excited to learn from such a succesfull club.

What has been your wake up call to being in Europe so far where you knew that you were far away from home?.

This is my first experience not speaking the local language so that will definitely take some time to get used to. Aside from that everyone has been great in welcoming me here.

You’re a 201cm forward. What kind of a role will you have this season. You proved in the NCAA and Australia that you can be a reliable scorer?

We have yet to play our first game so I’m not sure what role the club will expect from me. But I will do whatever is asked of me to contribute to winning basketball. And yes I feel very confident in my ability to score the ball in different ways.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm player. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

Two players I like watching in the NBA are Tobias Harris and Paolo Banchero, I think my game is unique so I can’t really compare it to someone but I try to take things I see from versatile players my size.

You can score and rebound but what is your biggest strength?

My biggest strength is my versatility, I feel like I can be successful in many positions. From guarding multiple positions, rebounding, or scoring, I feel like I can contribute in multiple ways.

Your three still is a work in progress. Is it the usual repetition confidence and shot selection that you need to work most on or are there other factors as well for you to become a consistent shooter?

I feel very good about my three point shot, I have improved more in the past 5 months than ever in my career. I will keep working at it because I know it is vital to be successful in today’s game, but I have extreme confidence in my shot making ability.

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

I am a versatile defender, I feel like I have the ability to guard 1-5 effectively. I was able to do that throughout my college career. But of course I can still improve by working on my quickness at getting to spots.

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

My playmaking and shooting are two aspects that I am consitently working on. I want to perfect them so I can help any team win.

You played briefly for the Brampton Honey Badgers (CEBL) averaging 3.0ppg, 3.8rpg. What kind of an experience was it playing in your home land? What positives could you gain?

It was definitely a good experience. I missed the whole season while playing in Australia and only played about 3 games so it was not ideal but I had an amazing time being home playing the game I love.

You had your first rookie experience down under with the Casey Cavaliers Cranbourne (Australia-NBL One South) averaging 18.9ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 53.7%, 3FGP: 27.6%, FT: 67.6%. You had a really good short season. You exploded for 34 points in your first game? How did your game grow there in your first pro stint?

I am grateful for Casey for giving me my first pro experience, like I mentioned I was able to get more comfortable being a primary guy and go to scorer. It elevated my game a lot and I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the club.

How important was it for your development as a player and person playing at 3 NCAA schools? Do you ever wonder where you may be now had you only played at Western Michigan?

I learned something valuable from every NCAA school I attended. I would not change a thing about my collegiate path. I don’t think I would be in the same position I am if I had not left my first school but I am forever grateful for the relationships I made there. I also would not have met my former teammate Michael Cubbage who introduced me to my amazing agent Eyal Grossbard.

You played your first 3 seasons at Western Michigan playing 77 games and never averaging more than 5,2ppg. How was this experience? Did you have a special role?

Like I said I am very grateful for my time and experiences at Western Michigan University. I think I grew most as a person there and met some of the closest people in my life.

What memories do you have of Michael Flowers who played in Germany last season? What kind of a bond did you have with him?

Michael Flowers is an amazing basketball player. I played with him for 2 years and he is one of the best shooters I have ever witnessed play this sport. I consider him a close friend and I am excited to follow his season.

You then had your break out NCAA season at St. Francis College (NY) (NCAA) averaging 12.5ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 11.1%, FT: 75.0%. What did you learn about yourself as a person that season? You had many great games there. What was your most memorable game?

St. Francis was the first time I was able to gain some true confidence. I was given a lot of freedom which expanded my game more than ever before. The first game of the season was memorable for me. It was my first time playing a game with the team and I went 8/11 against a Big 10 team for 18. That was a good way for me to start of a fun season.

You played a fifth season at the University of Maryland (NCAA) averaging 3,0ppg, 2.8rpg. How tough was it seeing your minutes dip from 30 to 17. I guess reaching March Madness was a big consolation that season for you?

Reaching March Madness was my main goal through college and I am grateful I was able to do it with some an amazing group of teammates. That experience made it all worth it.

How did head coach Kevin Williard give you that last push in your preparation for a pro career?

Coach Willard was one of the best basketball minds I have ever played for. He had an incredible understanding of the game and I think I was able to retain a lot of it.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Hakim Hart?

Me and Hakim never played 1-1 but he was an all conference player and even better person.

Your from Toronto. Have you had any deals with the Scrubb brothers Phil and Tommy. These guys were legends at Carleton University.

I have never had any interactions with the Scrubb brothers but everyone back home knows about their impact on Canada basketball.

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

Obi Toppin had a great game against my Western Michigan team, that was a memorable one for sure.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My five best teammates are William Boyer-Richard, Caelum Swanton Rodger, Jason Whitens, Michael Cubbage, and Kawanise Wilkins

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Magic Johnson, Shaq

Who is your GOAT and why?

In my eyes Michael Jordan is the greatest of all time because of his pure dominance.

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

I have not seen the sequel I’ll have to watch it!

Thanks Patrick for the chat.

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It´s has been real tough the last 2 seasons to see 2 easyCredit BBL legends go with Rickey Paulding and Quantez Robertson. Combined they played 29 seasons in the easyCredit BBL and won a combined 3 titles. They not only became the identity figures of their ball clubs EWE Baskets Oldenburg and Fraport Skyliners, but also of the easyCredit BBL. But there are also other incredible players that have been around forever and thank God will continue playing. One of those is Mr Saarlouis, Mr Regionalliga, Mr mid range Rickey Easterling. This explosive scorer who has made the mid range jumper his bread and butter the way Steph Curry has his three began his professional career in 2005 and came to Germany in 2006 and the rest is history. Except for a season in Reutlingen, Bergheim and Karlsruhe, he has made Saarlouis his home for 15 seasons and will return for a 16th season in 2023-2024. I mean how could it be any other way? Saarlouis and Ricky Easterling (189-G-1983, college Bridgewater) go hand in hand like Paulding and Robertson did in Oldenburg and Frankfurt or Larry Bird and the Boston Celtics or the legendary Red Auerbach and his cigar. The devoted and faithful guard who has the mid range game that many would die for has played 355 games for Saarlouis and it will continue this season even if his role may change a bit. “ You will see me as a part time player. I am no longer a full pro player. I’m taking the next step in my career and focusing more on coaching”, warned Ricky Easterling. He knows exactly what Paulding and Robertson went through with their teams and it isn´t any different with the Sunkings Saarlouis. “Ever since day one Saarlouis welcomed me with open arms. Once we both got to know each other it was a perfect match on and off the court. They love having me here and I love being here. If I left tomorrow I would miss everything about Saarlouis. The fans and friends I have met over the years, walking around the city and also stepping into the Stadtgardenhalle for game days”, stressed Ricky Easterling. It just wouldn´t be the same in Saarlouis without Ricky Easterling.

Ricky Easterling and miles Schmidt-Scheuber in Frankfurt in 2015

It is summer 2023 and like most pro´s Ricky Easterling is enjoying time off from competitive basketball, but is still keeping busy. “My summer is going well. I haven’t been any place new in a while. I’m just in my normal routine. When the season is over in Germany I always make sure I go home and visit my family. Once I see them, I go to Kutsher’s Sports Academy where I coach and train players of all ages and skill levels. I also take the time to workout myself to stay in shape for upcoming seasons”, stressed Ricky Easterling. Working out and staying in shape has been a huge focus in his life and a big reason why he can still compete and play the game he loves. Time really flies as he turns the magical 40 in November. But the grind doesn´t get any easier with age. “When I’m warmed up and active I feel good. But I must admit, warming up takes a bit longer than it used to. I also feel more sore and stiff after playing and it also takes longer to recover. So Father Time is starting to show his face a little bit more these days”, said Ricky Easterling. This season he will surpass BBL legend Rickey Paulding who was 15 seasons with one club the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. Even if he played mostly in the Regionalliga, he followed Paulding and Quantez Robertson who played 14 seasons with one organization Fraport Skyliners. “I am very thankful that I was able to play for such a long time. If you would ask me this before I started playing overseas I would never have thought I would be here this long. Longevity is very rare in the sport business. Many things contribute to that but I’m very thankful I was able to play for so long. Knowing how rare it is I give everyone who is able to play the game for a long period of time the up most respect”, added Ricky Easterling.

The guard who led the Pro B in scoring 2 years in a row and averaged 30,0ppg plus 3 times continues to be a top player in the Regionalliga at almost 40 years of age. Even if his scoring isn´t as explosive as 11 seasons ago where he last averaged 30,0ppg, he still scores at ease as he has averaged 23,0ppg in the last 6 years and is filling the stat sheet up with ease. His secret to being able to score is easy. Don´t do anything out of the ordinary. “Reps and sticking to what I know I can do on the court. I try to only take shots that I practice or I know I can make. If it is not a good shot for me I don’t take it. I think this approach to my shot selection helps me stay efficient and consistent”, warned Ricky Easterling. His mid range game continues to be his bread butter. He hits those as easy as Kareem Abdul Jabbar did the annoying sky hook shot. How many shots does he get up? “ It may vary depending on where I am at the time. But I normally try to get 3 or 4 sessions in a week of 300-500 makes. These shooting rep sessions are extra reps in team practices or workouts with trainers are not included”, stated Ricky Easterling. He has always been a solid three point shooter, but never great. But why stress something when you can make the mid range shot in your sleep. Last season he averaged 40% from down town for the first time in his career. What changed in his preparation? “In this case it was the reps. As I got older over the years I had to adapt to Father Time and defenses. My 3s were one of the things I added to my summer workouts, and reps from behind the 3 pt line helped me develop a more efficient 3pt shot. Now I’m able to apply it in the game. The last couple seasons I have increased the volume of threes I attempt per game and they are falling more consistently all at the same time. It is a good feeling to work on something and see the hard work pay off”, commented Ricky Easterling. Last season his toughest opponent was Fellbach who moved up to the Pro B. They double and triple teamed him, but he always had a solution. This season may not be the same as in previous seasons as he is only a part-time player, but his desire to leave everything on the floor won´t be any different than a decade ago, so he will as always be best prepared. “ I’m the type of player that bases my workouts on reps and build muscle memory. I make sure I keep my strengths shape and there is no better way to do that then repping it out. Then I gradually add new things to my game. Normally I keep it simple and concentrate on just 1 or 2 new things and rep it out over the summer. Then by the time the season comes around I got some new stuff in my bag to use on my opponent’s”, warned Ricky Easterling.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Ricky Easterling in Frankfurt in 2017

When he isn´t grinding in the gym, the ex Bridgewater College (NCAA§) great follows the game just like any other American. He was shocked like everyone else when the Team USA 12 man roster for the 2023 World Cup was announced that will commence at the end of August. There were no mega superstars on the list. “That roster looks like a good bench line up. My first thought was “ where are the starters at? I honestly have no idea why super stars are not participating. I think it is very unfortunate for our country”, stated Ricky Easterling. He does have high hopes for guys like Jalen Brunson and Brandon Ingram as being the leaders and go to guys and players like Cam Johnson and Mikal Bridges coming up big for them as well. Team USA definitely won´t have a cake walk as there are many countries that will challenge them like Spain, France, Serbia and Germany. Another country that also could do serious damage will be Canada who are sporting enough NBA fire power with guys like Luguentz Dort, Jamal Murray, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, RJ Barrett, Dillon Brooks, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Cory Joseph, Kelly Olynyk and Dwight Powell. “Canada have a deep roster. I’m not ready to say they are a favorite to win it, but they definitely have a good chance to win with all those NBA players on their roster”, stressed Ricky Easterling. With so much great talent from Europe and countries catching up with USA, can America win the Gold? “I can’t say that I am a believer this time around. I hope I am wrong though”, warned Ricky Easterling. His hope in Team USA winning a Gold medal may be minimal, but his self-confidence in his game will never wane. His consistency just speaks for him being successful even at age 40.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Gordon Herbert in Frankfurt

Gordon Herbert is a Canadian/Finnish coach who is currently in his 27th year coaching and is head of the German national team. He has a long coaching resume that includes having coached in Finland Austria, Russia and in Germany he coached Wurzburg, Alba Berlin and was with the Fraport Skyliners for more than a decade. He also coached the Canadian national team and was active with the Toronto Raptors and Brooklyn Nets. He spoke to germanhoops.com about leading Germany to the 2023 World Cup title.

Congrats Gordie on winning the 2023 World Cup. About how many congratulatory messages did you get and who were some of the more known people that reached out to you?

I would say something around 200 people. The German chancellor congratulated me. I got a lot of text messages from Finland and people from Germany. I also heard from many coaches throughout Europe.

When you look back to the first days in 2021 when your named German national coach, how great is your feeling then that you could actually accomplish something like this after only 2 years on the job?

In year 1 we tried to build relationships with the players. That was around 40 guys. You developed each others trust. We came a long way. We lost our first qualifying game in Nurnberg to Estonia. You have to give a lot of credit to the players that played in the windows. They were part of it

How high can you rate this World Cup title not only for Germany but for basketball? After a disastrous 2019 World Cup to win like this is phenomenal?

This was the biggest accomplishment in German basketball. Giannis from Greece said it best today that Germany is the world champion. It was nice to read that from one of the best players in the world.

The win over the United States was an incredible feat. Was this win in a way greater for you personally than the final simply because you beat the greatest country in the world in basketball?

No the final was the best win. The win over USA was very emotional. We came off that win and didn’t slip up against Serbia, but won the title.

You said that a statue should be put up in Braunschweig for Dennis Schroeder. Tyrone Ellis said Germany wouldn’t have beat USA without Dennis Schroeder. How much did he grow as a player in this World Cup?

Dennis was instrumental from day 1. He was a huge part of the success. He embraced the captain role and being that leader. He took on a lot of responsibility and really matured a lot as a player. For him it was a great honor to represent his country. He had a tough game against Latvia, but bounced back. He came back greater. That is what great players do.

Did you get any special words from Steve Kerr? Do you feel like the NBA really knows who you are now?

I have no idea. You would have to ask people in the NBA. Steve always comes over as very polite and down to earth. He just said congratulations. I have a lot of respect on how he carries himself.

The final against Serbia was so exciting. After Germany led by 12 points, Serbia made a comeback. What were you thinking as Serbia released a pretty open three to tie?

They made a couple big three’s before that. They never gave up. We had a good 15 minutes and they had a good 3 minutes at the end. When you want to win a world cup title, you have to be good and also a little lucky. We were 8-0 and deserved the title. It was earned and not given to us

My favorite play of the final was the quick bullet pass from Joe Voigtmann in the fourth quarter from the three point line. What was your favorite play in the whole tournament?

It is hard to say just 1 play. There were so many great plays. Jow had an outstanding final. You have to give a lot of credit to him. He sacrificed his offense for the sake of the team. He was the glue guy at both ends of the court. He was instrumental game by game.
You coached Johannes Voigtmann and Isaac Bonga for years in Frankfurt. What was most special for you during the World Cup being able to coach them as national trainer?

Joe is an outstanding person, family guy with life values. I thought Isaac’s game grew when Franz Wagner was out. He got more involved on offense. Guys like Nils Giffey, Justus Hollatz and David Kramer didn’t play much but were tremendous teammates. Their time will still come.

Tyrone Ellis said it best saying you were the perfect leader and you had 12 guys that played with so much pride for Germany. What did you respect and cherish most from your players?

Just how much they cared about each other and supported each other even when they were on the bench.

Tyrone Ellis said you deserve to be in the NBA. He said there is do difference between NBA coaches and you. Could a NBA team even defend the way you want to?

I don’t know. That is a tough question to answer.

What did you learn about yourself during the World Cup?

I thought that we let our game slip at the Euro 2022 after the win against Greece. That didn’t happen this time. We all learned from that and didn’t allow it to happen again.

You celebrated until 7:00am. I saw a picture of you, Klaus Perwas and Sebastian Gleim. Have you ever seen Klaus smile?

He smiled in the locker room after we won the title. He has a great relationship with the players. They all like him. The assistant coaches did a hell of a job. They really worked their butts off.

How did you enjoy the celebration in Frankfurt. What was the nicest thing you heard from fans?

It was nice seeing so many happy people. When I saw the energy and support of the fans, that was the first time where it really sunk in that we had won. It was pretty surreal.

Who wins a 7 game series the German national team or the Denver Nuggets? Tyrone said Denver 4-0 or 4-1.

I have no idea. I’m just really proud of our team. USA had great young players. Canada had good players as did Australia. We were simply the best team with Special individual talent.

Thanks Gordie for the chat.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Tyrone Ellis in Frankfurt in 2004. Even almost 20 years later they form a professional ex player/journalist relationship

Tyrone Ellis (193-G-1977, college: S.Nazarene) is a former professional player from Dallas, Texas that has coaching experience in the G-League having been an assistant with Tulsa, Reno, Grand Rapids, and Bakersfield and was a head coach with Northern Arizona and Stockton. He also has been an assistant coach for Team USA. As a player he had a stellar career in Europe showing that a player can make a career coming from a NAIA school from Southern Nazarene playing in countries like Germany, Italy, Turkey and Spain. In 2004 he helped the Opel Skyliners win the BBL league title. He played for three Spanish teams Girona, Cajasol Sevilla and Asefa Estudiantes Madrid playing six seasons in the best league in Europe. He also played for teams like Eldo Basket Napoli and Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul . He spoke to germanhoops.com about the 2023 World Cup and success of his ex coach Gordon Herbert.

Thanks Ty for talking to germanhoops.com. Last time we talked it was concerning new Fraport Skyliner Derek Cooke Jr and today it’s about Gordon Herbert. How incredible is this title for him? I can imagine you were beyond overjoyed?

I was texting Gordie through out the tournament. We have been keeping in touch periodically. I’m so freakin proud of him. The greatest compliment that you can give is that he is consistent. He is a great coach and leader.

You saw first hand what Gordie is capable of doing winning the 2004 BBL title. Was this a surprise or did you feel going into the 2023 World Cup that Germany could win a medal?

I wasn’t surprised at all. I know how good of a leader he is. The x’s and o’s is the easy part. You know drawing up a play to get a shot. The difference is his leadership. He has so much pride that that spills over to the players.

I know you have contact to him. Did you have any talks the last weeks or was it more just congrats after wins?

Just texting. I congratulated him after the big win over USA. I gave him a long text message telling him how proud I am of him. He really deserved it. I told him after German won the World Cup that now the whole world can see how good he is. There is really no difference between him and NBA coaches. He is one of the best coaches in the world. The world is seeing this now, but I already saw this 20 years ago in Germany and later with Georgia.

What does the win for Germany and Gordon Herbert mean to you as having been ex player?

Gordie has always been humble. Whenever I tell him how grateful I am for everything he has done for my career, he responds with no problem. Many don’t know this but when I was in Frankfurt, I was going through a divorce and wasn’t playing my best. Gordie took the criticism for my play. I hope this World Cup title will inspire Germany to keep fighting. Obviously football is #1 in Germany, but I hope basketball will create more positive energy in that country to keep developing that sport ahead. Germany is deservingly the best basketball country in the world.

I heard a story that Gordie took you aside and pretty much said this to you. Herbert told you should be yourself, but we will only win if we do it all together. He let that team be themselves and conducted them. How do you remember that time?

That is absolutely true. He gave Chris Williams and me so much freedom. That forced us to take responsibility and not take advantage of Gordie. Americans always have more pressure to perform, but we didn’t abuse that freedom. We respected Gordie so much and so did everyone else like Pascal Roller and Robert Garret.

How high can Germany rate this in your sports history? I believe it’s at the top with football world cups despite basketball not being the countries number sport.

I don’t know the history of German sports that well, but I think this World Cup title has to be rated as highly as those football titles. This title is so amazing. No one would of ever believed this could happen. German had the perfect coach as the leader and 12 guys who loved to represent their country.

How did you follow the World Cup. Was it just all around all teams or did you have more focus on USA and Germany?

I didn’t follow it that closely. I wanted Gordie to do well for personal reasons and also USA to do well. I mostly watched these 2 teams.

How did you witness USA-Germany. Despite being an American did Germany’s win still make you a little happy since you played there some years and for Gordie?

Of course I was happy for Germany and Gordie after they beat us. I’m a basketball fan. I was more upset how USA played. Gordie winning the title means so much to me. A coach always has a long lasting impression on their players. My coaching philosophy and who I am starts with Gordie. My fondest memories in Europe was playing with Chris Williams and winning the title with him and Gordie. I can’t not think about Gordie when I think of Chris and vice versa.

You’re a coach and was an ex player. How tough is it general to have younger less known players that USA had to really focus 100% on team basketball?

USA had more talented guys than any other team. When I came overseas as a player, I understood that I had to adapt to the euro game. The difference with USA was that they didn’t adapt to the Euro game. The better team always wins and not the most talented. It was evident other countries were embodying that team first mentality.

Was USA put together wrong? I mean how can use explain them not getting a medal? They had a coaching staff filled with coaches that won NBA titles?

No I don’t think so. Team USA had good enough players and great coaches. It is hard to win when you have young guys with no euro experience. When the Olympics come, then USA will have super talented players and more experience and that will count most. You have to have the total mind set to be successful. I think that USA had that palms up mentality. That is when you complain. The others will just keep playing. You can’t win with the palms up mentality in Europe.

Germany-Serbia was an exciting game. Of course Germany showed great team basketball and every guy 1-12 contributed, but let us be honest had Germany won without Dennis Schroder? His big bucket lay up at the end sealed the win?

Germany wouldn’t have been as successful without Dennis Schroeder. They wouldn’t have beat USA without Dennis Schroeder. They also wouldn’t have made the quarterfinal without him. He was the difference maker.

Germany has 5 players in the NBA. What German player impressed you most?

You saw how dominant Dennis Schroeder can be when he feels comfortable. Franz Wagner is also really good. Dennis stood out because he had the ball in his hands most of the time. The team just really impressed me. I loved that excitement on the bench. One can’t really understand that pure joy and excitement until you have represented your country. You saw the love of the game from Germany.

The biggest strength of Gordie is his communication skills and having everyone understanding their roles and executing to 100%. What else was vital for Germany’s success that people may not have realized, but you had as an ex player?

Gordie cares for each player from 1-15. If a player isn’t doing his job, he will tell you no matter if it’s the 1 or 15th player. A good example was when Gordie bumped heads with Dennis. That is what a good leader does. You saw that both respect each other. They understand the game and moved on. That is part of the game. I can remember Gordie getting on me, Chris or Mario. He never got on Pascal. Gordie is never afraid to do his job. That has to be commended. He isn’t afraid of that 1-1 talk or showing love. He isn’t fake but the real deal. I strive for that as a coach.

Last season Gordon Herbert led Germany to a Bronze at the Euro and now a World Cup title. Does he deserve a shot as an NBA coach now?

He doesn’t deserve a job as an assistant coach, but he should be an NBA head coach. There is going to be a point in time when NBA teams will want that leader and not just that players friend. Head coaches that have relationships don’t work. Gordie is a phenomenal leader that cares for his players.

Who would win a 7 game series between the German national team and the Denver Nuggets?

Denver 4-0 maybe 4-1.

Please leave some closing words for your ex coach Gordon Herbert.

I want to personally congratulate Gordie, his staff, players and Germany. Germany was very good to me. I hope Germany appreciates all the hard work that was put in from everyone involved with the German national team. I continue to pray for success for Gordie and that he will be a head coach in the NBA.

Thanks Ty for the chat.

Tags : TYRONE ELLIS, HLA ALICANTE, GEORGIAN BASKETBALL

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Joerg Baehren in Rhondorf in 2016. They have covered German basketball combined for 40 plus years

I don’t even want to waste time with German football, except for a few lines. Today it’s all about basketball. A few days ago as German fans were exiting the Volkswagon arena in Wolfsburg after witnessing the embarrassing and shameful 4-1 loss to Japan and wondering how much more the team could pierce their delicate hearts, on the other end of the world in Manila German national basketball team coach Gordon Herbert was waking up and on the verge of literally becoming invincible in Germany. How different both worlds were in 2023. German football was in ruins while in Manila German basketball was on top of the world as the national team defeated Serbia to win the 2023 World Cup. A few minutes before the historic basketball title, the DFB announced the dismissal of coach Hansi Flick. One couldn’t ask for better timing interfering with the basketball spotlight. How totally mind boggling was this scenario 10 years ago as the roles weren’t reversed, but very much different. Germany was on the verge of winning the World Cup in football while Germany was a respected basketball country that had had some incredible moments winning the 1993 Euro and winning silver in 2005 at the Euro and Bronze at the 2002 World Cup, but their last medal was 8 years back. Germany is a football country and I can bet there was no one in 2013 that would have predicted this scenario. In 2023 German football will be in ruins and German basketball at the top. I mean I would never have come up with an absurd statement like that, but what if someone had thought that in 2013? ‘A statement like that would have been unheard of then. You see the big steps the German national team has taken in the last 4 years. Back in 2019 where we were so horrible at the World Cup, we had 7 guys on the roster that were on the 2023 World Cup team. That is crazy and unbelievable. In 2019 many thought already that that team was great. Making this kind of turnaround in such a short time is amazing. The team went into the 2023 World Cup being afraid of no one. That is phenomenal’, stressed Phoenix Hagen press speaker Joerg Baehren.

photo credit ZDF

So I thought hard on Sunday morning which person I could interview after German won the World Cup. Many guys popped into my mind, but I felt that a guy like Joerg Baehren would be perfect, because he is a guy that has followed German basketball for 20 plus years and knows the NBBL youth league well something he has covered for a long time. Everybody on the 2023 winning German team played youth basketball. He didn’t disappoint with some great stories. Plus he is a great guy. It’s always fun catching up with him. I reached him about an hour after the World Cup had ended. He had watched the game in Cologne at the easyCredit BBL office together with some other BBL media basketball hard core guys like Sven Simon and Torben Rosenbohm. Obviously he was in great spirits when I reached him. It was obvious this was going to be a very fun interview. Of course we had to talk about the game first. The first half was an up and down high scoring battle, but in the second half, the tempo was reduced and Germany stepped up their defense and forced Serbia to tougher shots and began to key on their top players like Bogdan Bogdanovic more closely. ‘Germany also did a super job taking on the physicality of Serbia. They did play their game, but just their game and matched their physicality’, stated ex Telekom Baskets Bonn press secretary Joerg Baehren. Early in the fourth quarter Germany stepped up their intensity even more and led by as much as 12 points and some fans may have got the champagne ready, but Serbia wasn’t done yet making one more run as they cut the lead down to 3 points. They could of tied in the last minute with a good look from outside, but missed. Dennis Schroeder then sealed the title with his bread and butter drive and iced the game with free throws. ‘Germany reacted well to Serbia’s come back. Dennis Schroeder did a great job keeping the team calm and demonstrated that they were in control’, said Joerg Baehren. Then the moment arrived that so many Germans had waited for with the buzzer. ‘At first I felt nothing. Then you realize what actually did happen and think about everybody who was involved with the win. I mean everyone from the players, to the coaching staff to the people behind the scenes like press speaker Christoph Buker who has been there forever. You see the happiness of the players and everything else gets transported. I mean everyone involved with basketball in Germany have some kind of story with someone involved with the German basketball federation. When I began as a press secretary in Rhondorf in 2003-2004, Klaus Perwas was the head coach. I remember driving to away games and I always drove and Klaus sat next to me and was on the phone always. It didn’t matter how far we went, he was always finished 2 minutes before we arrived at our destination. What many don’t understand is that he is the perfect assistant coach. Look what he did in Frankfurt developing young players like Joe Voigtmann or Isaac Bonga and others. He is the perfect guy to keep the team together’, warned Joerg Baehren.

2011 NBBL game with 3 2023 World champions with Johannes Thiemann, Dennis Schroeder and Daniel Theis

The Title will always be remembered most, but another aspect that is incredible is that Germany had a perfect 8-0 record. That is a feat that not every team can achieve through a long tournament. Ex Player Jermaine Bucknor said it best saying that he had never seen such a great unity like Germany had. But it wasn’t only the unity and chemistry, but you obviously also need the individual qualities on the court from players 1-12. ‘If your going to win the World Cup title, then you have to have 12 players that can all look good against the best Fiba competition. A big help was also that they are all so self-confident and can play with the best players 1-1. This team has incredible qualities at every position from every player. You have that great shooter with Obst, then you have a guy like Mo Wagner who never breaks mentally in a bad phase or a Dennis Schroeder who always has to be the best. You have guys that need to prove themselves and have modern big men that can shoot. Germany went game by game looking at each opponent thinking what component do we need tonight. Against USA it was shooting and against Serbia the big man Voigtmann’, added Joerg Baehren. I don’t care what anyone says, but without Gordon Herbert , Germany wouldn’t have won this title. He has shown everywhere he has coached that he can form competitive teams. How often did he show his brilliant coaching in Frankfurt taking teams with low budgets and making playoff teams, or bringing in the right players like Dashaun Wood, Justin Cobbs, Jordan Theodore or Shavon Shields all unproven players before coming to Frankfurt. Why didn’t the German basketball federation swipe up Herbert earlier and what is the secret to Gordon Herbert ‘s success and is he the Jurgen Klopp of German basketball. ‘You need to ask Gunnar Wobke why the German basketball federation didn’t get him earlier. Important was that Herbert got the keys to the team from the start. He was the chief from the start and took the direction and everyone else followed. That was a very smart move by the German basketball federation. Gordie has proved everywhere where he coached that he is a great communicator and knows how to get everyone involved from 1-12. You also saw with Schroeder that he isn’t afraid to take on conflict. You saw it 20 years ago during the BBL title in 2004 with Tyrone Ellis. He wasn’t an easy guy to tame. Herbert told him he should be himself, but we will only win if we do it all together. He let that team be themselves and conducted them. I don’t think that Gordie is the Jurgen Klopp but there is one similarity that I see. Both don’t take themselves as that important. They know the importance of their role, but don’t put it in the fore front’, expressed Joerg Baehren.

Photo credit ZDF

Of course every player gave their all to the title from 1-12, but there are some players that had big roles and really were key for the team being so successful like 10 year NBA veteran and 2023 World Cup MVP Dennis Schroeder who averaged 20/4/6/2 in the World Cup. He hasn’t been shy of controversary in his career off the court, but on the court you can’t diss him. He played his game, but also for the team. Will he now be loved by all German basketball fans? ‘I think so. I mean as a person some like him and some don’t. I feel the most important thing is how he plays on the court. I think it is fair to say now that Dennis is the greatest German point guard of all-time’, commented Joerg Baehren. Another player that sparkled at the World Cup, but was a bit in the shadow of Schroeder was Franz Wagner. He missed the first 5 games with a foot injury, but returned for the last 3 games averaging 16/6/3 in the World Cup. He has much potential and has a big future still ahead of him in the NBA. Could he become a superstar within 3 seasons? ‘I think he can if his legs hold up. He had problems last summer and this summer. He has the potential to get bigger in the NBA if his body doesn’t limit him. He has such a unique skill set at age 22. You see the Alba Berlin school in his play. I think he still hasn’t realized what he has accomplished the last years at his young age. I remember at the 2022 Euro being in an elevator in the Cologne arena and he was going to an interview. He said it was so surreal just having played a game and now going to an interview in an elevator. Everything has happened so quickly for him’, said Joerg Baehren.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber´s first meeting with Franz Wagner in 2017 when he helped Alba Berlin win the German U-16 title

Another big winner of this World Cup was sharp shooter Andi Obst. What better story can he tell his grand children in 30 years then beating USA and scoring 24 points? This dude must be on the NBA radar at least now. In Europe he has belonged to the best shooters since years. ‘I think he is on the NBA radar now. I mean the USA game was the perfect stage for him. He is already one of the best in Europe. If his game can translate to the NBA, I don’t know. I personally think his game is better suited to Europe. But he will always have that USA memory and it’s cool that the NBA now knows of this great shooter from Germany’, added Joerg Baehren. Another great player who statistically may seem to have had a quiet tournament was big man Johannes Voigtmann who averaged 5/6/3 stats and saved his best for last with 12 points, 8 boards and 3 dimes for the final win over Serbia. I don’t care what anyone says, but for me I enjoy his passing the most. I remember back in 2016 when he was playing Fiba Europe cup, I compared his passing IQ to a Marc Gasol in a broadcast. ‘I love his passing as well. I remember seeing him the first time 12 years ago when he was with Jena. He was a young kid, but already then he could pass the ball. I remember Jena having many guards, and Joe would just stand at the Ft line and feed the guards. He is such a unique passer. I thought he was the best at the 2023 World Cup’, stressed Joerg Baehren.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Johannes Voigtmann doing play by play in langen in 2014

When you have been around the German basketball scene for so long like Joerg Baehren has, it is only obvious that he has many great stories. One of his favorite is the one with Dennis Schroeder. ‘I’m not totally certain when this was, but I believe it was 2011. Dennis was very young maybe 16 or 17 and not in the NBA yet. At that time I was writing for Five magazine. We were doing a piece on the next German generation after Dirk Nowitzki. We had to take 5 players at every position. I remember wanting to name Dennis Schroeder at the point guard position. At that time he was already very talented and if he put in the work, he could be really good. I remember talking with then German U-18 head coach Kay Bluemel about Dennis. Dennis was cocky though then. Kay wasn’t sure if putting him in the list was good and maybe it was better leaving him out of the spot light. That way he could be off the radar. I decided not to put him in the list. I put Robert Zinn in the list instead who has had a nice career in Switzerland. I felt it was better to protect Dennis instead of putting him in the spotlight. Now you look at what Dennis did at the World Cup, and you say he did everything right. I also have a nice story with Niels Giffey. He had a small role this year and didn’t play much, but was as important as all other 11 players. But he showed what kind of character he has playing for the team and not his ego. But every team needs a guy like that to have success. I remember at the NBBL top 4 in Berlin in 2009. Giffey and Alba Berlin were getting killed by Paderborn and the Wenzl brothers in the first half. He came into a timeout and got his teammates motivated. He then took over the game in the second half and scored something like 30 + points’, remembered Joerg Baehren. One has to wonder where this breathtaking World Cup title ranks with other big sports moments in German history. Of course you have the 4 Football world Cups, Michael Schumacher Formula 1 titles and Boris Becker’s unforgettable 1985 Wimbeldon title at age 17. ‘It is difficult to compare, because each sport is unique. But I honestly feel that the World Cup title is at the same level like other big moments in German sports. You just have to rate this title so high, because it never happened before. This title is a huge moment in German sports history’, warned Joerg Baehren. We remember well how 2013 was with both Football and basketball and will cherish the 2023 Basketball triumph now, but how will the landscape for both sports look like in 2033? Even if the whole football drama is annoying now, it can only get better. But at the moment we are all on cloud 9 with the basketball world cup title. And this will be cherished forever. I began the phone call with Joerg Baehren with hello world champion and ended it with world champion. Even if Joerg and I were lazy on the couch watching the German legends being made, we all felt like champions. The German basketball scene is so small where everyone knows each other. This incredible day was for everyone that is involved with German basketball

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and legendary head coach Svetislav Pesic in Frankfurt in 2015

48 house ago, I went into the historic 2023 World Cup semi-final clash between USA and Germany with a positive feeling and big smile knowing I couldn’t lose. I mean as a born and bread American with German parents, I was always proud of having both citizenship’s, but when it came to basketball my heart always pounded more for the Americans than for Germany. That was the case again in this contest. Germany has made massive strides in the last 10 years with breeding new talent and thus they finally recorded a medal again last year at the Euro after being idle for 17 years. But despite Germany upsetting USA 113-111 in a classic power struggle of a game, I could still smile after the buzzer sounded. I mean I know the head coach personally and have had dealings with many of the German players over the 10 years. Now my mind set was 100% focused for the final on Sunday crossing all fingers for Dennis Schroder and co. But there was only once difference as now I could lose namely if Serbia win. I didn’t have the luxury again like with USA-Germany, but young basketball player Marko Rosic (174-PG-2005) of the Dragons Rhondorf does. The 18 year old grew up in Germany, but his family roots are in Serbia. He played the last few years in the ratiopharm Ulm organization and played youth basketball and pro B for Orange Academy and also played in the Regionalliga for BBU 01 Ulm. Now he is up for a new challenge with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf and has 2 special experiences connected to Serbia. ‘My nicest experience as a player was being invited to the U-16 Serbian national team and as far as the Serbian national team goes, it’s having watched their march to the final this summer. Serbia has performed so well despite not having many stars like Nikola Jokic. They have proved how well they can perform without him’, stressed Marko Rosic. It is obvious who his heart will beat strongest for on Sunday. ‘My heart is with Serbia in the final’, stated Marko Rosic.

Marko Rosic pic credit Martin Jung

Serbia reached the final by registering a 6-1 record. They achieved this record without many superstars most notably Nikola Jokic for some the best player on the planet. They destroyed countries China, South Sudan and the Dominican Republic by a combined core of 332-225. They even had little difficulty against top nations Lithuania winning 87-68 and got by Canada 95-86. Their only slip up was against Italy where they suffered a close and brutal 78-76 loss. ‘I wasn’t as convinced of their play in the early going. But the way they reacted after the loss to Italy was inspiring. They began to play with character and did a great job playing together and staying together in tough moments. They really heightened their game and improved until the final’, expressed Marko Rosic. Many may have been expecting a USA-Canada final, but Serbia had other ideas. They took on the challenge and didn’t disappoint. ‘Serbia was very well prepared for Canada. Especially on defense they played very well and always had answers. Gilgeous-Alexander didn’t have a great game keeping him better in check. Bogdanovic played great offensively against Brooks. Serbia was better prepared mentally and tactically for Canada’, commented Marko Rosic. The 7 year NBA veteran Bogdanovic has had a strong World Cup averaging 19/3/4/2 stats and shooting 40% from the parking lot. Has he been a bit lost in the shuffle among the superstars Doncic, Schroeder and Gilgeous-Alexander? ‘He has played a very good World Cup. You can’t forget he was injured for a season. The focus wasn’t on him. You look at Canada or Australia that ha so many NBA players, I think he built up his rank again and got respect again by reaching the final. He led Serbia to the final without stars’, added Marko Rosic. Even if Serbia is missing some guys, they still have very talented players with Euroleague player Nikola Milutinov and young NBA player Nikola Jovic of the Miami Heat. ‘They are both extreme important players. Jovic may be in the NBA, but he is still very young. The way he has taken on the challenge of an important role has been great. This is still the World Cup with the best players and he has played great. Milutinov helps the team so much under the basket. He is one of the best bigs in Europe and he helps some with leadership’, added Marko Rosic.

Germany steam rolled into the 2023 World Cup final with an impressive 7-0 record. They had easy wins over Japan, Finland, Georgia and Surprisingly Slovenia as well. But they also showed when the going got tough, they were able to withstand adversary with grind out wins over Australia and Latvia. ‘Germany has a very strong team. I awaited them to play like that. I didn’t expect a cake walk, but I knew they would perform well. They have a great leader in Dennis Schroeder and so many good role players with Daniel Theis and Johannes Thiemann. Their biggest strength is their team basketball. It is cool that the team doesn’t only rely on Schroeder. Any guy can step up. Against USA it was Andi Obst’, said Marko Rosic. We will see if they only saved their best for last by defeating the mighty USA or if they will have even more left against Serbia. The victory against the United States will go down as one of the countries greatest wins even if they can win the Gold against Serbia. It was a back and forth clash that seemed like a classic elite boxing match where punches were exchanged all day long with no one wilting. The game went down to the wire and Germany had one extra punch too much. Could the win over USA already been Germany’s Gold medal game? ‘This was a huge success for German basketball. But they can’t celebrate it. They still have to compete for a Gold Medal. Andi Obst is the reason they won. They way he faked out Haliburton at the end and made that shot was incredible. He had so much courage to take that shot and showed real fight. Germany really wanted to win more than USA’, warned Marko Rosic. Andi Obst has contributed well averaging 10,0ppg in the World Cup and shooting a potent 45% from outside. The FC Bayern Munich sniper has been an incredible shooter for years, but why isn’t he in the NBA? ‘I actually was thinking the same thing during the game. I think he just hasn’t had a big stage to show his skills like now. Maybe now with his play at the world cup, he will be in the note books of NBA teams. I hope he gets there. He has incredible shooting qualities. He now belongs to the best shooters in Europe’, added Marko Rosic.

Germany can win another Gold Medal for the first time since they surprisingly won the Euro in 1993 over Russia. Germany will have a reunion with legendary coach Svetislav Pesic who was Germany’s head coach then. He won the World Cup in 2002 with Yugoslavia and now at age 74 is in the final again. ‘Pesic continues to prove how good of a coach he is. He won with Germany many years ago and shows he can be successful with different countries’, said Marko Rosic. Germany has a 5-5 record against Serbia dating back to 2009. Their last meeting against Serbia at the World Cup was in 2010 in Turkey where Germany squeezed out an exciting 82-81 win with Jan Jagla leading the way with 22 points. So what kind of final can we await? ‘We will see team basketball from both sides. Both teams will step up their defense. I think it will be an emotional game and be dirty at times. It will be a good time and be close’, warned Marko Rosic. A good question will be who is coming in as the favorite? One thing is for sure that both teams will come into the final with a lot of self-confidence. Obviously many may think that Germany is the favorite simply from having beat USA, but one shouldn’t underestimate Serbia. ‘Serbia will play with a lot of emotion. They will take that emotion and energy of the win and their fans into the final. I also think they will be playing for Borisa Simanic who lost a kidney and be thinking of him. Key will be trying to keep ball away from Schroeder as much as possible. If they allow Schroeder to create then that could really give Serbia problems. Also important will be keeping an eye on Andi Obst and not losing him’, stated Marko Rosic. It will be interesting to see how Germany reacts after playing against a high tempo USA team and now playing against a more physical and team basketball orientated club like Serbia. ‘Germany has to take their confidence with them from the USA game. They don’t really have to change anything up, but just continue to play their game and show that good team basketball that carried them the whole way to the final. They definitely will have to play better defense than against USA. I also think they have to play more under the basket. They have the advantage there and could hurt Serbia’, warned Marko Rosic. Near the end of the USA game, ex NBA player and Fraport Skyliner Isaac Bonga made a key block to help secure the win. Could Bonga be the X-factor? ‘ On defense yes. He guards the other team’s best player. Slowing down Bogdanovic would be a big help’, added Marko Rosic. The semi final between Germany-USA was already a huge highlight and one of the greatest games in German basketball history, but could the final top it? We will see. It is no surprise who Marko Rosic picks. ‘I’m going with a 87-84 win for Serbia’, said Marko Rosic. I’m going against that prediction. I predict a 92-90 win with the game winner from Franz Wagner. Team Germany already put basket Germany in heaven after the win over USA. Imagine what will happen if Germany wins the Gold? If someone had said 10 years ago that Germany would be playing for the World Cup Gold and have a 7-0 record going in, nobody would have believed it.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber began to cover Jermaine Bucknor in 2010 when he played his first season in Frankfurt. They met up again in 2022 in Koblenz

September 10th could go down as a historic day in Fiba Basketball history. The sport will most likely see an exciting Gold medal game between Germany and Serbia and a Bronze medal game between USA and Canada that will feel like a second final. I can bet there were many people in North America who predicted a USA-Canada final especially with all the NBA guys, but a lot has happened in the last 15 years as the world has caught up. For guys from North America living overseas, a final with other countries isn’t such a weird thought. ‘If someone had told me that those 2 countries wouldn’t be in the final before the World Cup started, it wouldn’t have surprised me. The talent pool overseas is so high. I’m proud of Canada and how far they have come. The growth of Canadian basketball and commitment from NBA guys has been huge. Many had Canada in the final only from their NBA talent, but the difference is that countries like Serbia, Lithuania or Lativia have guys that have played together since they were 10 years old. The chemistry really matters and it matters so much when you have countries like these who know each other so well together for a short period of time. Canada has experience in the NBA, but not in Fiba play. USA had a great team, but they had no experience with Fiba rules. That really was a big difference. Every possession mattered in the World Cup’, stressed ex Canadian national player Jermaine Bucknor (201-PF-1983, college: Richmond) who represented Canada at the 2010 World Cup in Turkey. In Germany social media went crazy as Germans were so happy for this historic win, but in no way able to dis USA. Stateside the majority of delusional fans continued to disrespect the growing talent overseas and most continue to believe that everything is beneath the NBA. Why are Americans still so ignorant in terms of how they view the rest of the world in basketball? ‘It is difficult for Americans. The best league is the NBA. The best young talent is in the NCAA and the best young talent after that is also in USA. People overlook the rest of the world. The talent pool is just so large state side. You have literally so much talent in the United States. You look down your block and it’s there. Then you go in a different neighborhood and it’s there. It’s crazy. But I do feel that more respect is coming now from USA. The rest of the world have to thank guys like Steve Nash, Pau Gasol, Dirk, the Joker, and Giannis. . They didn’t just play in the NBA, but performed at the very highest level. I believe all have won NBA MVP awards. They put international basketball on the map. The knowledge of international basketball is growing in USA’, warned Jermaine Bucknor. I put Bucknor to the test with the question of how many guys out of 100 American basketball fans would name Nikola Jokic as the best player in the world right now. ‘Honestly I would predict 8-10 people. Not all would say Lebron, but enough would add Kevin Durant, Steph Curry and Kyrie Irving. I think some would even put Luka Doncic before the joker. I think it would be tough for Americans to put a big man as the best simply because the NBA is so guard orientated’, said Jermaine Bucknor.

I reach Jermaine Bucknor on a hot Saturday afternoon a day before the Gold medal and Bronze medal games. Currently he is in Germany and already has a new coaching gig lined up, but not ready to announce it quite yet. As a Canadian he followed the World Cup with great interest especially Canada. He watched Canada-Serbia and was very disappointed with the outcome. He didn’t even feel like Canada played bad, but actually noticed something in the game that hadn’t occurred in the previous Canada games. ‘I don’t want to blame the refs as Canada has to own up to the loss. I felt like this game was refed differently than the earlier games. The games before were very physical, but in the semi-final, all of sudden every hand check was called. We had some guys like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Dillion Brooks and RJ Barrett get hit with 2 quick fouls. This changed our line up and Serbia quickly was up 10 points. Canada was never able to even it out. Shai was out of rhythm and that changed the dynamic of the game. Canada had to play a different game. You could see that Canada was shocked by some calls’, stated Jermaine Bucknor. Canada had a very talented roster and was very deep, but were they possibly missing that third and fourth real explosive scorer behind Shai and Barrett? ‘I think we had a very good team. Dillion Brooks stepped up and did more than was expected. I think that we moved the ball well. Obviously if we would have had a Jamal Murray or Andrew Wiggins, our offense would have looked a lot different’, commented Jermaine Bucknor. Canadian basketball has grown so much in the last decade. 10 years ago, you rarely saw Canadian players overseas, but now it seems like they are everywhere. Was this Canadian national team the best ever and how does the future look like? ‘I think this was the best Canadian team that we have seen in a while, possibly the best ever. This team was incredible, but imagine how the team would have looked with Wiggins, Murray and Cory Joseph? That would have been insane. Or imagine if Tristan Thompson would have been on board. I think that the future is bright. You would want to hope that guys like Murray and Wiggins were at home watching the games and are thinking, I want to be there next summer and then see what happens’, expressed Jermaine Bucknor. So who does the ex Trier player see winning the Bronze medal? ‘It will be an exciting game. This will be the game with the most NBA players in it. Both teams went into previous games not knowing players, but in this game most will be familiar with one another. It will be like an NBA game. I think it will be high paced and high scoring. I’m rocking with Canada 98-95, added Jermaine Bucknor.

The ex Fraport Skyliner also watched the historic USA-Germany game which many have said is the greatest Fiba game of all-time. After the win USA coach Steve Kerr who played with Michael Jordan in the 90’s said that it isn’t 1992 anymore. ‘I love that quote. I’m really proud of Germany. I played against so many of those guys. A few summers ago, I was able to be an assistant coach for Hendrik Roedl when they had a training camp in Trier. It was an incredible experience. I played 9 years for the Canadian national team and have seen a lot in my life time, but I have never ever experienced the type of unity that Germany had. The work ethic was great and they were all on the same page. I was so thankful to have been a part of that. Germany beating USA didn’t shock me. I called it before the World Cup began. It takes years to develop a unity like that and Germany has it. It is like a brotherhood. I think winning in general means so much more to them than it does to USA. The USA guys fight for a NBA title each season, but the World Cup is simply everything for Germany. It is bigger than the Olympics for Germany. They have so much pride’, stressed Jermaine Bucknor. A few weeks ago, Germany wilted in the fourth quarter and couldn’t keep up with the American’s high paced style, but in the semi-final they were there until the end. It also helped that USA played too much 1-1 ball instead of team play. ‘The lack of team basketball hurt USA at the Fiba level. Ball movement is vital where spacing is limited. The ball has to pop. This isn’t the style of USA. I watched this game as a coach. When USA beat Germany with 1-1 play, I accepted it, but had the Americans been able to use the three more and get paint touches, they could of really hurt Germany, but they couldn’t take advantage of that’, said Jermaine Bucknor. Andi Obst continues to dazzle people more and more with every new performance. He is more than just a deadly shooter. ‘I think he has proven consistently that he is an elite shooter in the world. He can do so much more than just shoot. He can create and handle the ball well. He isn’t just a dead eye shooter. If they close out hard on him, he can still finish strong. He also can shoot. When you can shoot the way he does, anybody in the world will give him a look’, stressed Jermaine Bucknor.

The style that German basketball fans witnessed from Germany against USA most likely won’t be present in the Gold medal game against Serbia. It will be a different type of game, but won’t mean it will be less exciting. ‘I agree this could be one of the best finals ever. Both teams play a similar style to perfect team basketball. Both teams are really fun to watch. The talent level is so high. Both teams support each other so much and everyone plays their roles best. Both teams play so unselfish. I believe it will be a physical and exciting game. It will be gritty with guys diving on the floor for loose balls. Both teams will leave it on the floor’, warned Jermaine Bucknor. Both team’s will be coming into the final high on emotion and exhibiting much self-confidence. It is really difficult to call out a favorite. ‘Germany has to execute well and value the ball. They have to execute well after time outs and get the ball to where they want to. They also have to slow down the tempo and limit their turnovers. Serbia likes to get into the open court. Germany can’t give up easy baskets. That will give Serbia extra confidence. Germany has to continue to knock down open shots. Dennis doesn’t need a perfect game to win, but a good solid game. Mo Wagner is the ex-factor. He makes Germany tick. He is irreplaceable’, warned Jermaine Bucknor. Germany didn’t see any difficult defensive schemes from USA, but against Serbia it will be a different story. ‘Serbia has to lock down on defense and key in on Dennis and be physical with him. They have to make the game as fast as possible and get in the open court. Bogdanovic has to play very well and make plays. Isaac Bonga could play a huge role in the game depending how well he can guard Bogdanovic. His athleticism and length has helped him be solid on defense. He takes pride on defense’, stated Jermaine Bucknor. So who will come out as the winner? I have Germany prevailing 92-90 with a Franz Wagner buzzer beater. ‘It will be a close game. It will be a game of runs and go down to the last seconds. I have to go with Germany. Germany has waited so long for this moment. Serbia is more experienced, but Germany is so hungry. Their time has come. Germany wins 85-83’, said Jermaine Bucknor. Perhaps on Sunday night, Jermaine Bucknor can celebrate twice with Germany winning the Gold and Canada winning the Bronze. I’m sure he’ll celebrate a third time sometime with Gordon Herbert on the phone. ‘I’m so proud of Gordie. It is so amazing what he has done with the program in the last 2 years. The unity has developed further under him’, stressed Jermaine Bucknor.

Tags : JERMAINE BUCKNOR, ROMERSTROM GLADIATORS TRIER, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Trey Moses (208-C-1997, college: Ball St., agency: One Motive Sports) is a 26 year old 208cm center from Kentucky playing his fifth professional season and first in Austria with Basket Swans Gmunden (Austria-BSL). Last season he played with S.C. Lusitania EXPERT (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging 8.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 15.2%, FT: 69.3%. In the 21-22 season he played wih BC Apollon Limassol (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) averaging 9.2ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 51.2%, FT: 45.8% and with Kilsyth Cobras (Australia-NBL One South) averaging 8.6ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 8.3%, FT: 63%. In the 20-21 he played with Ovarense Gavex (Portugal-LPB) averaging 10.1ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 61.6%. he played his rookie season with BC Beroe (Bulgaria-NBL) averaging 8.4ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 60.0%, FT: 51.9%.He began his basketball career with Eastern high school and then played at Ball State University from 2015-2019 playing a total of 131 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a test game against German team Fraport Skyliners.

Thanks Trey for talking to eurobasket.com. You 26 years old and playing your fifth professional season and in your sixth country now in Austria. Are you the classic basketball globetrotter?

I love being able to travel and play ! It’s such a blessing to be able to experience new cultures

This season your playing with Basket Swans Gmunden (Austria-BSL). What kind of experience has it been for you? What have you appreciated most about Austria in your short time there?

It’s been good so far, we started practice yesterday! We have such a good culture and the love from the fans has been great

The club has won 2 of the last 3 Austrian league titles. Do you feel a lot of history and tradition within the organization?


I do! I feel how important winning is here. I only want to continue to bring winning to the club

You have always been that reliable scorer and rebounder. What kind of role do you have?

I would say my role here is the same. I’m willing to play whatever role is needed to win. I really want to make my teammates better and challenge them however I can.

Your playing a test game against German team Fraport Skyliners. What do you know about that country and it’s basketball? Is Germany a country you may like to play in one day?

I know basketball in Germany is very very good! Germany as a country is amazing as well! I don’t know what the future holds but Germany is surly a country I’d love to see.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 208cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would bets fit the description?

I would want to say Jokic with my ability to pass the ball. Passing is my favorite thing to do, I love to create for others.

You can score and rebound. Are you that classic center of today or also have old school game?


I would say I have a mix of classic and new center. I think my ability to pass sets me aside from old school centers and stretch the floor a little and dribble.

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

I would say I’m a defender that can guard multiple positions. My communication I would say is at an elite level. I want to work on lateral quickness so I can guard faster offensive guys.

On what other areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?

Shooting and conditioning are the keys for me this year !

Last season you played for S.C. Lusitania EXPERT (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging 8.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 15.2%, FT: 69.3%. It was your second season in Portugal. Is Portugal a league on the rise? Talk a little about how the league has developed?


Portugal is certainly a league on the rise. I loved playing there. I think they’re getting better players each and every year while also the top teams competing in European competition

In the summer of 2022 you finally played I Australia with Kilsyth Cobras (Australia-NBL One South) averaging 8.6ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 8.3%, FT: 63.0%. How cool was it finally to play there after you couldn’t the first time because of Covid?

I obviously didn’t have the season I wanted in Australia but I loved my time there. It was an amazing country and an amazing club! I would love to go back eventually

You had a rare triple double against Dandenong. How will you always remember that game? You were a real playmaker that game with 10 assists.

My first career triple double! It was a great game for us as a team and individually! It takes a whole team for a guy to get a trouble double and it was one of the best moments of my career!

In the 21-22 season you played for BC Apollon Limassol (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) averaging 9.2ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 51.2%, FT: 45.8%. You only played 6 games. Was that more because of injury or Covid?

Coach ended up getting fired and the new coach decided to go a different direction with the team! My time in Cyprus is appreciated

You also experienced Anthony King who was at end of his career. How will you always remember about him? What could you soak up most from his game?

Ant was an amazing vet, I learned so much from him. The biggest was just how to carry yourself as a professional on and off the court

In 20-21 you played your first time in in Portugal with Ovarense Gavex (Portugal-LPB) averaging games: 10.1ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 61.6%. How valuable was a veteran like Chris Knight. He is still playing today. How big of a role model was he for you?

Chris is a great player and teammate , truly loved the time I got to spend with Chris. He elevated our team to another level! A true professional.

You played your rookie season with BC Beroe (Bulgaria-NBL) averaging 8.4ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 60.0%, FT: 51.9%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew you were far away from home?

Just the level and understanding of how to be a pro! How to work hard , and carry yourself off the court.

You played at Ball State from 2015-2019. What were your fondest moments there? You won the NCAA inspiration award in 2020. What you achieved off the court was very commendable.

The NCAA inspiration award was such an honor. Being awarded for inspiring others tops anything I could ever do with basketball

You had your own problems involving depression? What did you learn about yourself in your time at Ball State while dealing with it and opening up about it?

I learned that it’s okay not to be okay. Understanding the importance of taking care of yourself and your mental health!

You dedicated your last 2 years to Zach Hollywood who passed away during your time there. You guys really bonded with the Best Buddies program. What did his existence mean to you and what will always be your fondest moment of him?

He was my best friend. Truly was such a great person . Our bond on and off the court. My favorite memory was him coming home to help with best buddies camps that I do. He fit right in with me as a friend/brother and my family loved him as well!

You also were a teacher’s assistant at the Child Study Center, a preschool near Ball State’s campus in your time there. What drives you most in trying to help young kids help them in their lives?

I teach when I’m home as well in the off season! I just have always had such a passion for kids. I love being around kids and hope to be a father myself one day!

You had many stellar games at Ball State and really had Akron’s number in your junior year. What was your fondest game there?

My favorite game ever was beating Notre Dame. They were ranked #9 in the country and it was such a big win for our program

How did head coach James Whitford groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He taught me simply how to work hard on and off the court. Taking care of yourself and your body!

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tahjai Teague?

Man me and Tahjai definitely had our battles! Tahjai is so skilled ! We both had our days.

Who is the toughest player hat you have ever battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Trae Young , Kelan martin and D’angelo Russell were the best player I ever played ! Also was really cool that Kelan and d Lo are from Louisville !

Please name your 5 best teammates of al-time?

From a basketball standpoint: Tayler Persons, Ryan Weber Tahjai Teague Franko House Miyrne Thomas

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, Jordan, Shaq and Kobe

Who is your GOAT and why?

Lebron! The only player who can truly do it all at an elite level!!

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

I haven’t seen it lol but they definitely should’ve left it alone!

Thanks Trey for the chat.

Tags : TREY MOSES, BASKET SWANS GMUNDEN, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Quantez Robertson had a special Reporter/player relationship for 14 years in Frankfurt and still active in Tez´s retirement

When you think of the country Germany in general, some of the first thoughts that people might come up with could be beer, castles, pastry, auto’s or Boris Becker, but not many would come up with basketball. Ok so Germany did produce Dirk Nowitzki, the greatest German basketball player, but when it comes to international Fiba play, Germany has had their moments winning the Euro in 93 and getting a silver at the 2005 Euro and Bronze at the 2002 World cup, but between 2005 and 2022, Germany was just a side note until last year when they finally won again with a Bronze at the Euro. In the last decade Germany has produced incredible talent and sent guys to the NBA. At the moment Germany has Dennis Schroeder, the Wagner brothers, Daniel Theis, Maxi Kleber and Isaiah Hartenstein in the NBA. Of course some of the past German teams will argue, but the current squad is most likely the most talented team that Germany has ever ensembled. The team face off against USA tomorrow and are no massive underdog. Germany have an 0-3 record against USA in the Olympics and lost their last 2 games at the 92 and 2008 Olympics with a combined score of 93 points. But those days of getting mauled are long over. Germany and the rest of the world have caught up. For the longest time, I only had team USA as the invincible master because of all the NBA stars that have surfaced from Doctor J to Lebron James in my lifetime. But Team USA doesn’t have the typical 12 man roster as the big time stars like Durant, Curry, Lillard, Tatum etc are missing. Germany have an incredible good chance of winning this game. Am I afraid of losing? No, because no maatter what the outcome of this game will be, I can’t lose. As an American, I’ll be ecstatic if they win, but if Germany wins, I can be just as happy since I’m half German. ‘This is a huge game for Germany. They haven’t lost a game yet and now get the ultimate test against USA. The German NBA guys will play against the American NBA guys and will know what to expect. It is a great feeling for me to see my ex coach Gordie Herbert coach. It should be a great game’, stressed Quantez Robertson (188-SG-1984, college: Auburn, agency: Interperformances).

I could of asked hundreds of players to rap basketball about this historic game, but I chose one of my favorite interview partners from the last decade with Quantez Robertson. There is no place where he could hide in the Frankfurt arena, because I always caught up with him after a game. I reach Quantez Robertson on a Wednesday night in Germany less than 48 hours before game time. Team USA has so much history and their greatest team ever the 1992 Dream team is one that Quantez Robertson didn’t experience on TV simply because he was only 7 years ago, but of course heard about it soon after when he got older. ‘Dream team 92 was the team with Jordan, Bird, Magic and all those other guys. Jordan was my favorite and the guy I knew most about’, stated Quantez Robertson. But one thing Tez as everyone called him for 14 years in Germany knows about is the 2023 team USA at the World Cup. He has followed their path from home in Alabama and seen a bunch of guys that have no mega superstar, but 12 incredible players that have outstanding individual skills and for the most part have played very well together. He has been impressed with their 5-1 record heading into the semi-final clash against Germany. ‘Team USA has been playing pretty good. I think if they continue to be physical and keep sharing the ball, then they will continue to be successful. I think that they are saving their best for last. They will put on a good show’, warned Quantez Robertson. Team USA have 4 guys averaging double figures and 3 guys averaging 8 points. They have many weapons and stacked at every position. If one had to name one main leader then it has been Anthony Edwards. Will his great play at the World Cup propel him to the next level in the NBA? ‘This is no surprise. He already has shown in the NBA how good he is. I think he will really become a force in the NBA this season’, stated Quantez Robertson. Team USA has many dominant scorers, but one who has been beneath himself has been New York Knick Brandon Ingram averaging only 5,7ppg in the competition. ‘That has been a big surprise. He is a great scorer that can put up a lot of points in a short amount of time’, said Quantez Robertson.

Even if he is American, he must have a little spot in his heart for Team Germany? He played numerous years under Gordon Herbert in Frankfurt starting in his rookie season in 2009 reaching the BBL final and then winning the Fiba Europe Cup together in 2016 and was teammates with Johannes Voigtmann for 4 seasons. He has been very impressed by the perfect 6-0 record. ‘They have been playing very well. They play together and hard. They actually have been playing crazy. If you can keep Dennis Schroeder in the game, you will always have a chance’, commented Quantez Robertson. What was even more amazing was that Germany won it’s first 5 games without top player Franz Wagner of the Orlando Magic. ‘Wagner was a bit banged up. That just goes to show you how good this team really is. They play really well together’, expressed Quantez Robertson. Team leader Dennis Schroeder has been a force even if he went a little overboard against Latvia with ego play which almost cost Germany the game as the opponent had one last look to win the game but missed. Tez played against Schroeder 10 years ago in Germany and remembers him well. ‘He is tough and fast. He wasn’t as outspoken then as he is now. He is more of a leader now and a more aggressive scorer. I didn’t guard him much. I usually had to guard Immanuel Mcelroy. But I had a couple of chances against him. It evened out’, remembered Quantez Robertson. There was some controversy in the game against Slovenia where Germany was trailing bad after one quarter and Herbert and Schroeder had a heated exchange at the bench. ‘Me and some of the old guys talked about this. Gordy takes no bull from anyone. He is tough but a fair coach. When he wants you to sit down, you do it. You need a breather during the time out and are getting ready to play again. It’s not always about you. You need to listen to the coach’, stressed Quantez Robertson. Unless Schroeder is totally cold again like against Latvia, you won’t totally be able to stop him. ‘I think team USA will use a trio of players to slow him down with Bridges, Brunson and Edwards. It depends who is on the floor’, warned Quantez Robertson. His ex teammate Johannes Voigtmann has had a quiet World Cup putting up 4/5/2/1 stats or has he? ‘I wouldn’t say it has been quiet. It isn’t easy when you have a bunch of NBA guys getting a lot of minutes and taking a few more shots, it’s tough. He has played well and as always makes the right play with the pass or with the pick and pop’, added Quantez Robertson.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/julaKb1mzqQ

Germany had a nail bitter win against Latvia while USA cruised easily past Italy. Germany led big in a friendly game against USA a few weeks ago, but still lost 99-91. What kind of game can we await? ‘I think both teams will put on a good show. It won’t be a bad game. It will definitely be well coached that’s for sure’, warned Quantez Robertson. So what will be the keys to winning for both sides? ‘Germany can’t rely on Dennis to dominate the whole time. Every guy has to contribute. Also a good shooting day wouldn’t hurt either. They also have to make sure to slow down the game and try to keep it in the half court, otherwise USA will try to run up the score. I think both teams are matched up pretty evenly inside. USA hasn’t rebounded well on the offensive glass. USA has to stay away from the 1-1 play and not get away from what they did in the exhibition game they won. USA has to be aware though that Germany is a better team now then a few weeks ago when they lost to them’, warned Quantez Robertson. Tez knows his ex coach Gordon Herbert inside out. Will we see him release any tricks from his sleeve? ‘There won’t be any tricks from Gordie. He will have the right guys out there at all times. He will have them well prepared and deliver a good pre game speech’, said Quantez Robertson. So then I ask the legend the most stupid question of all with what the outcome will be. ‘Well of course, Team USA is going to win. I predict a 105-94 win’, chuckled Quantez Robertson. Of course he will also be keeping a close eye on Team Canada. With Phil Scrubb and Trae Bell-Haynes, Tez has two ex teammates who could battle Team USA for the Gold on Sunday. ‘Canada has a lot of NBA guys and have been playing well. I think Canada can go as far as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander wants to go. He is their motor. They will beat Serbia 90-87’, stated Quantez Robertson. 5 years ago Tez was teammates with Phil Scrubb. They have many fond memories together. ‘I’m pretty proud of Phil. He may not be getting many minutes and scoring the way he knows how, but he is still the same Phil. He can always score and create his own shot. I will never forget one of the first games of Phil with Frankfurt. He went out on the fast break and dunked. It was a shock to us, because he had never done it in practice’, remembered Quantez Robertson. If the final is between Germany and Canada, then Quantez Robertson will be able to tell so many stories about players from both teams to his friends in front of the tube. But it will be nothing new for his family as they will know the stories.

Tags : QUANTEZ ROBERTSON, WAR READY (AUBURN ALUMNI), GERMAN BASKETBALL

Pic credit: Fiba

Williams Tavares (198-G-1995, college: Fordham) is a 28 year old 198cm guard that has the American and Cape Verrde citizenship. He began his basketball career at Bishop Hendricken High School. He tehn played 2 seasons at Monroe College (JUCO) averaging 10.0ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 43.6%, FT: 60.8% and in his second season averaged 12.2ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 64.3%. He then finished at Fordham University (NCAA) averaging 5.6ppg, 2.2rpg, FGP: 38.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 66.0%and in his second season averaged 13.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 21.9%, FT: 63.2%. He began his basketball career at CD Universidad de Concepcion (Chile-Liga Nacional) averaging 16.2ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 54.5%. He also played with Olympic (Egypt-Superleague) and last season with Tundja Yambol (Bulgaria-NBL) averaging 14.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.7apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 60.3%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 59.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after playing with cape Verde at the 2023 World Cup.

Thanks William for talking to germanhoops.com. How good is basketball life for you? You reached the second round with Cape Verde and put Africa along with South Sudan on the basketball map. How important was this for African basketball?

It’s been well as of late. Always a blessings to do what you love.

What was so special about the Cape Verde team? Did that daily underdog feeling and having that dog mentality propel the team to being able to stay with teams?

We play every game like it was our last . We play hard every time just made some mistakes that were completely normal.

You beat Venezuela 80-75. Talk a little about what was going through your mind right as the buzzer sounded?

It was amazing for sure. It still feels so surreal!

Cape Verde lost to Slovenia but as always gave all they had. What was it like battling Luka Doncic? Did you have scenes with him that you will be able to tell your grand children?

Always cool to go up against a player of that caliber. We played well as a team and fought to the final buzzer . He’s just a player that plays the game the right way and a down to earth type of guy.

There are 2 Tavares on the team. With Walter you are teammates with one of the best centers in Europa. What is it like being teammates with this incredible player? Your nicest personal experience with him at the World Cup?

Edy is a big brother to me. You will never meet anybody so humble after so much success. He dominates the game with his presence and plays the right way.

Were there any situations during the World Cup where the two names Tavares caused mix ups? Obviously he is a lot taller, but still some people may have mixed up the people with the names?

We are family. I’m sure there’s some similar relatives down the family tree. The Tavares – Duo is what people call it haha.

You had a solid 2023 World Cup averaging 10/2/2/1 stats. How content were you with your play?

For me it wasn’t about numbers.. it was about embracing the moment and do what I can to help my team win!

What was your personal highlight from any games where you played in and your game really sparkled?

I would definitely say my 4th quarter in that win against Venezuela.

A big stage like this could really help your career. Have offers been coming in?

I hope they start coming in sooner than later.

I would love to see you in Germany. Your ex teammates Chris Sengfelder and Javontae Hawkins have been big time players in Germany. How would Germany sound like in your bio?

I would love to play there ! We will see what God has planned !

Your self confidence must be sky high. How did your game grow during the 2023 World Cup?

I mean playing in the highest competition in the world and playing a key role would boost any players confidence . It was truly a blessing to be on that platform playing against the best!

Last season you played with Tundja Yambol (Bulgaria-NBL) averaging 14.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.7apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 60.3%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 59.0%. How vital was this season for your career and what was your fondest moment in Bulgaria?

It was cool out there . I learned a lot and made some long term friends. I had some good games out there and most importantly I learned a lot of the European playing style.

In 20-21 you played with Olympic (Egypt-Superleague). What kind of an experience was this for you? What did you learn on the court and off the court did you enter any exotic palaces?

I didn’t play much because of Covid . It was for sure a culture shock for me.

You played your rookie season with CD Universidad de Concepcion (Chile-Liga Nacional) averaging 16.2ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 54.5%. You were there for only a month, but played 9 games. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

It was hard at first because you were on your own in a whole other country. The plus side was being to do what I loved as a job for the first time.

After high school you played 2 seasons at Monroe College (JUCO) averaging 10.0ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 43.6%, FT: 60.8% and 12.2ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 64.3%. Every guy I have interviewed who played JUCO have commented that it was a real challenge but one they wouldn’t have traded in for anything else. How was it for you?

I would agree with that statement. Juco was great for me. I was able to develop quickly and still play high competition while getting exposure to play division 1 ball.

How vital was head coach Jefferey Brustad for getting you ready for the NCAA? How did his teaching ways help you best?

Coach Brustad resume speaks for itself . It was blunt and straight to the point with his coaching. So I had to learn quickly and was able to adapt to his system which turned out great for me.

You played at Fordham from 2016-2018 averaging 5.6ppg, 2.2rpg, FGP: 38.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 66.0% and in your senior year averaged 13.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 21.9%, FT: 63.2%. How did your game grow in your senior year?

I would say the summer going into my senior year I did everything possible to make sure I was ready for my last year. My confidence is what grew the most!

You had many memorable games in your senior year with exciting 1point wins over Maine and George Mason. What was your fondest game at Fordham?

I would have to say my first game ever at Fordham . I remember being so nervous and it still turned out to be a good game for me.

How did head coach Jeff Neubauer groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

The staff was huge on defense and on ball pressure. That has now become one of biggest strengths at the pro level.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Chris Sengfelder?

I don’t think we play 1 on 1 but he knows he can’t guard me lol. I will say he’s one of if not the best shooters i’ve played with for sure.

Please name the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

I would probably say Jaylen Adams that was at Saint Bonaventure was a tough cover.

Please name your 5 best teammates until now?

Chuba Ohams, Shakeem Wilson, Javontae Hawkins, Chris Sengfelder, and Edy Tavares.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, MJ, Kobe, Allen Iverson

Who is your GOAT and why?

Allen Iverson was my goat growing up. I copied everything he did even down to his hairstyle. I just loved his fearlessness!

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

Never seen it

Thanks Will for the chat.

Tags : WILLIAMS TAVARES, TUNDJA YAMBOL, GERMAN BASKETBALL