Kirvaris Myricks (183-PG-1994) is a 183cm guard from Indiana chasing the pro dream overseas. He has professional experience in Canada, Mexico and ABA. He began his basketball career at Merriville high school and then played 3 seasons at Oxnard College (JUCO). He also played at La Sierra University. He finished at the University of LA college of Divinty. He is taking part at the Howard Hoops Pro Combine in Milan, Italy and spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I am located in Ventura, California and basketball has been a pure blessing I’m blessed to play this game.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Pro Combine in Italy. How excited are you to come overseas and show your skills?

I’m very excited hoping to showcase my talents in front of GMs and coaches it will be a great experience.

How did you find the contact to Ron Howard? Was it more through guys you know of finding information online?

I found it online.

How thankful are you of having found Ron Howard? He has been helping guys get jobs overseas for a decade.

I’m very thankful for Ron opening doors and providing me with this once in a lifetime opportunity.

What have you appreciated most about him? He is a guy that lives and breathes basketball and wants to give the underdog a shot.

His patience and attention to detail is very professional

You have had professional experience in Canada, Mexico and ABA in the last few years. How has the professional grind been for you? What have been the toughest things that you have dealed with?

It’s been a solid experience and it has exposed my character in good way. It has made me eager to learn and become the best player I can possibly be as well as learn the business side of basketball. The toughest thing is being away from my family and friends

You have put up very consistent stats in different pro leagues. What do you believe have teams appreciated the most about your game?

My work ethic and my willingness to help the team win ball games and I make my teammates better.

Let’s talk a big about your game. If you had to describe your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

A two way play making shot creator.

Talk a little about your game. What are your main strengths? You fill the stat sheet like Russel Westbrook. How big is versatility in your game?

My main strength honestly is that I give it my all whether it’s a workout a shoot around, watching film, I’m obsessed with the process plus I’m super fast so I guess that helps as well, but my IQ has took a huge leap in recent years.

What is a hidden strength in your game that isn’t noticed right away on the court?

I believe my rebounding. I get a lot rebounds for a guard and sometimes that can get overlooked but I’m usually on triple double watch if you pay attention.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to grow as a player?

3 point shooting and decision making in pick and roll. It’s been a huge emphasis on those two things because that is will keep you a job as a professional in this current era of basketball.

You played JUCO for Oxnard College. I have interviewed 100’s of guys that played JUCO and each guy said it was a very tough journey, but one that helped their development. How was it for you?

JUCO was everything for me. It gave me all I needed which was an opportunity once I got my shot I maximized it.

Your game really took off in your last season where you averaged 16.3ppg, 4.7rpg, 4.8apg, 3.0spg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 67.2%. How did your game grow that season?

Thousands on thousands of reps. I took the weight room serious I did a lot of long distance running started eating more veggies and fruit and even more so I locked in on my grades which also helped me lock in on the court.

You also played at the University of Los Angeles College of Divinty. How was your experience there? You put up very consistent stats in your 2 years there.

It was one of the most greatest experiences of my life. I won an national championship there. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.

Who was the toughest player you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

I would have to say between Mike James and James Ennis. The physicality was just different along with the skill level made it really fun to compete against those guys.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My entire ULA team.

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Allen Iverson, Magic Johnson, MJ , lebron , Kyrie

Who is your GOAT and why?

God is my GOAT because he’s brought me through more situations as a winner than I could ever begin to imagine.

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

Lol no I didn’t see it. I haven’t been watching a lot of TV lately.

Thanks Kirvaris for the chat.

Tags : KIRVARIS MYRICKS, LA SIERRA UNIVERSITY, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Kareem Green and Camelo Anthony

There are guys overseas that would die to be able to say they played with and against guys like Kemba Walker, Sebastian Telfair, Carmelo Anthony, Demar DeRozan or Tobias Harris just to name a few like Kareem Green (F) did in young years. But there is no one on earth who would want to have been in the shoes of Kareem Green in the last decade. This guy has literally seen it all and thank God still living in 2023. He was like any other young kid full of life despite having grown up in tough Harlem, but he had found his love to basketball. He was about to embark on a college career, but then tragedy hit him over and over. His brother was murdered and mother passed away on his birthday. If that wasn’t enough to lead the ground work for never ending depression, his roller coaster in hell continued going down a neverending path as his best friend, grand mother and uncle all passed away withing a short span of 3 months. One can’t imagine the living hell he was going through. This would have been the perfect time to just say farewell to the world forever. ‘My mother in my eyes was murdered too. The hospital gave my mom the wrong medication causing her death so I felt really betrayed because the hospital is a place people go to, to get help. It was a living hell. I’ve never experienced anything like that before. I lost my whole support system in less than 3 months. It’s a feeling I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. A lot of dark nights and fighting with yourself. I’ve never talked about this but yes I thought about joining my family every-day for like a year I was seriously depressed. The only thing that kept me going was my nephew Steven who I raised to this day. If I died he would have no one in this world to look after him so I chose to be strong for him and through the grace of God I’m here today. If you don’t believe in God I’m here to tell you God is real and he brought me through hell and back and now I’m doing interviews in Germany and heading to Italy’, smiled Kareem Green. He lost his whole support system within 3 months, but God told him to get up and now he is chasing the basketball dream again.

Kareem Green who has a who is who list of toughest guys he has ever faced on the floor with John Wall, DeMar DeRozan, Sebastian Telfair, Jimmer Fredette, Tobias Harris, Lance Stephenson, Tyreke Evans and Landry Fields to just name a few was born on Valentines Day in 1990 in Manhattan, New York. His father died 3 days before Christmas when he was 5 years old. He began to play at age 6 and began his basketball career at Thurgood Marshall Academy from 2004-2008 averaging 19,0ppg and 12rpg where opponents had to put up with 270 pounds of fierce strength and was ranked top 50 in the state with guys like Kemba Walker and Lance Stephenson. He then played 2 years of prep school at South park academy in Houston, Texas graduating in 2010. He then wanted to play at Western Wyoming (NCAA), but grades disallowed him to. He then was set to play at Clark Community College in Washington and then his life turned upside down. The guy had everything going for him and then unfortunate happenings occurred. One has to wonder if he ever asked himself why me? ‘I never asked myself why me? This is part of my story and my journey, so I trust God. I trust the process and I trust the hard work I’ve been putting in and it will pay off. If I asked why, I’d be pitying myself and I would rather find solutions to improve my situation than looking for sympathy or empathy from others. I’m a hard worker and I respect and love the game but I had to fail many times in order to get to where I’m at now’, stressed Kareem Green. Was the hype just to enormous going to Wyoming? ‘No, the hype of going to Western Wyoming did not blow up my ego. I had a big ego since the 8th grade when I first became a ranked player in the country and in my state. I should have worked harder when the lights were on but instead I chose to party and make mistakes that young people normally make. Life has a funny way of humbling people and now as a basketball player I’m super grateful for every opportunity and every game I will never take this game I love for granted again’, commented Kareem Green. With so many hardships falling on his shoulders, his only escape was food. His weight ballooned from 250 pounds to 600 pounds. He wasn’t bedridden, but it was hard to move around. ‘The big weight gain came just from eating and drinking alcohol, That’s all I did for 2 years straight. I didn’t leave my house. I didn’t do anything. I just sat by the window and drank alcohol, listened to sad music and ate. Until God said get up and I’ve been up ever since. I started watching workout YouTube videos and found people like CT Fletcher, Larry Wheeler and Greg Monson and from there I started lifting super heavy and became a gym rat and now I’m bench pressing 425lbs I squat 700lbs I deadlift 500lbs I literally eat sleep and breathe iron. My journey is my journey and I wouldn’t trade that for anything. When I was depressed, I thought my mind was weak but I had to reach that point to find out how strong my mind really was’, remembered Kareem Green.

The big man who lists Tobias Harris, Kemba Walker (we came in 4th place 8th grade nationals that’s where we lost to Tyreke Evans and DeMar DeRozan), David Seagers, NYC street ball legend Steven Ruple and big brother D wash (Murdered in 2015) as his best teammates of all-time was living in hell for some years, but was lucky getting vital support. ‘Those years were extremely tough for me 2 of those years I just sat by the window depressed. I used to have the same nightmares about not playing and I would wake up with my heart racing and sweating heavily. I knew I had to get back into basketball somehow. And yes I had my older brother champ and my nephew Steven that was it, just us 3 trying to survive and make a way’, commented Kareem Green. Some how he found his way out of his massive hole and depression. It actually was another sad experience that helped him get back on track. ‘I was in a relationship for 8 years with my girlfriend at the time and we lived together during the time. I was depressed she left me, and it took me a while to understand why she left me. I didn’t love myself so how could anybody else love me. I registered for school. I started working out. I started working again in hopes to get my love back but it didn’t work so I started loving myself more and instead of doing things for her and other people I started doing things for me. And here I am now’, commented Kareem Green. He got in shape again and finally got some pro experience playing with the New York Crusaders, New York Empire and the Bronx holy flames in the MBL and PBA. ‘I want to say thank you to those organizations that gave me an opportunity to play pro. I believe my game has developed drastically. I’m always working and looking for ways to improve my game. I’m in the weight room 2-3 hours a day I don’t leave the court until 500 shots are made. I’m working on my cardio and conditioning constantly. I feel butterflies and excitement every game like it’s my first. I’m like a sponge right now I just want to soak up as much knowledge as I can. I will never take this game I love for granted again’, said Kareem Green.

Let’s fast forward to August 2023. The Harlem native who lists Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Bill Russel and Kobe Bryant on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore has continued to grind in the lab and gotten opportunities. He recently played in Nagua, Dominican Republic, and played in Disney World in the ESPN men’s national championships down in Orlando Florida. As always he is working on his game at the famous Rucker park where your always good to meet NBA players. His next gig will be the Howard Hoops Pro Combine in Milan, Italy. He recently flew to Minneapolis to meet the founder Ron Howard. Howard had a fine career overseas and for more than a decade after has helped young starving and talented Americans come overseas to live the basketball dream. He is more than excited to be able to show his game in Milan. ‘I definitely can’t wait to display my skills and show the world what I can do. The two skills I want to show the most are my leadership skills and my passing. I know how to score and create for myself but being able to create for others is a different kind of enjoyment’, said Kareem Green. He found Ron Howard on Instagram. He instantly became interested in his combines and important information that he was posting in blogs. ‘I’m super grateful and thankful for finding Coach Ron. He’s giving hoopers a chance to live their dreams and become professional on and off the court. He’s a great guy and heaven sent for real. To play in Italy is a huge opportunity. Coach Ron keeps it real and very easy to communicate with. We talk every week He’s really a great guy’, stated Kareem Green. But he quickly learned that Ron Howard isn’t only basketball 24/7, but is a guy where he can have long and memorable conversation about things that really matter in life. ‘I was able to fly to his combine In Minneapolis and he’s the real deal. We did a hard two hour workout followed by 7 to 8 games. After the combine Coach Ron picked me up from my hotel and we had lunch and we didn’t even talk basketball. We talked about real life things and after that I knew Coach Ron was everything I thought. He was Loyal, smart, passionate about the game and passionate about helping others. He’s truly a great guy on and off the court’, warned Kareem Green.

Kareem Green with Ron Howard

So what kind of game will people overseas witness from the ex PBL player who has Lebron James as his GOAT and feels the classic Coming to America movie should have been left alone? He is a player that is a mix between Nikola Jokic and Zach Randolph. ‘Jokic is a big man that can post up, shoot, pass and defend and he’s not athletic at all. He doesn’t jump high or run fast but he’s smart and he plays with heart. Zach was a dog in that paint and could shoot and pass as well, Zack didn’t jump high or run super fast either, but he was a great big body’, added Kareem Green. He is a big man that has a fine post up game, mid range game, can dish out the dimes and has a great IQ, leadership qualities and communicator. But he also has other attributes that continue to be off the radar. ‘A few of my hidden strengths in my game that aren’t noticed right away is my ability to impact a game without scoring. Passing, taking a charge, diving, and communicating. And being a good teammate isn’t always noticeable right away either’, commented Kareem Green. He has many abilities on the court, but the thing he is working on most at the moment is his body. ‘I’m working on my conditioning and getting in shape. That is the most important area of my game I’ve been working on the most. Everyday I’m working in the gym 2-4 hours, 2 hours lifting, 1 hour cardio bike, elliptical, or pool. My main thing is being able to get up and down that floor and defend. I’m also working on more ball handling and expanding my range’, warned Kareem Green. His former teammate and friend Kemba Walker will be playing his first season overseas for top Euroleague team Monaco and be living it up in the casino city Monte Caro. The chances of him playing against Walker are slim, but wouldn’t be something if he got a job overseas. ‘Playing in the NBA and overseas in Europe has always been a dream of mine since I was a kid. Getting a contract overseas would mean the world to me. My goal when I get there is to be a leader, play hard, win, and show the world what I can do. It would be super cool to get a job overseas while my boy Kemba is over there hooping’, said Kareem Green. No matter what happens, his mom who is looking down from heaven is so proud of him. Kareem Green battled against the worst adversary and is back in life with his feet on the ground

Stephen Yamoah (198-G/F-1984, college: Shaw) is a 39 year old 198cm swing man with extensive pro experience in semi pro leagues in the United States. He has played in the APBL with teams like the Manhattan Pride and Capital City Express and Jamestown Jackals an din the PBL with the Carolina Pee Dee Vipers and TRBL with the Georgia Kings. He also got experience at University playing at Shaw (NCAA2)playing 41 games. He will play at the Howard Hoops Pro Combine in Italy and spoke to germanhoops.com.

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

I am currently in Houston, Texas. Basketball and life is great. A lot of blessings and I’m feeling great and I’ve been putting in a lot of work in the gym.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Pro Combine in Italy. How excited are you to come overseas and show your skills?

Very excited and grateful for this opportunity. I’ve put in a lot of work and this will be a great opportunity to get seen.

How did you find the contact to Ron Howard? Was it more through guys you know of finding information online?

I was referred to him by Ronny Weihmann. Ronny spoke to him about me and told me to contact him because he could really help me.

How thankful are you of having found Ron Howard? He has been helping guys get jobs overseas for a decade.

I’m very thankful and grateful. I haven’t come across too many people that genuinely want to help players and give players an opportunity so I’m very grateful that he chose to give me this opportunity and saw me as someone worth giving an opportunity to.

What have you appreciated most about him? He is a guy that lives and breathes basketball and wants to give the underdog a shot:

I appreciate that he understands the viewpoint of being an underdog and willing to give us an opportunity. So many of us get written off for the wrong reasons but he has an eye for talent and a passion for giving guys that get overlooked the chance to prove themselves.

You have a unique story in that you have pro experience and are 38 years of age. Your passion to keep grinding and prove everyone wrong has to be massive.

I have a very deep passion and love for the game of basketball. I love everything about the game and I love everything about the grind. From the time I was young I’ve had people try to put me down, discourage and tell me I can’t do something but I never let it affect me. I have a strong belief in God and purpose which made me have a strong belief in myself. I don’t try to prove people wrong anymore because it’s not about them. As I’ve gotten older I’ve realized that trying to prove people wrong gives them too much power. I’m playing this game for me and for the love I have for the game. You only fail when you stop trying to succeed and your dreams are only unrealistic when you stop believing in them. People will always say something can’t be done or it’s impossible until someone does it. It only takes one person to have the determination to say I won’t quit no matter what. Everything was once viewed as impossible until that one person that was viewed as crazy did it then it changed the perspective of others. Never allow someone to put their limitations on you.

Talk a little about your passion for the game. You have played your whole career in the semi pro leagues. I can imagine you have seen it all. How well is your body still holding up at age 38?

I have spent a great deal of time in minor leagues but there’s a lot I have learned about the business of basketball as well as things on the court. But it’s also given me a deeper appreciation for the game and the blessing and privilege it is to play and to not take basketball or time for granted. I know it sounds cliche but everytime we step on the court it’s something to be very grateful and thankful for because our time is limited so enjoy every moment. But body is holding up great. People never believe me when I tell me age because everyone says I look and move like I’m in my early 20s. I usually get asked to see ID when I tell my age because people think I’m lying.

What 9-5 job do you have? Have your co workers, friends and family supported your drive for the game in the last 15 years?

I have a side job. I’m an Uber driver. It gives me the flexibility to train like I need to and it’s pretty decent money to take care of everything I need. I haven’t got much support but I’m very grateful for the few people that have supported me.

Let’s talk a big about your game. If you had to describe your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

When I was a kid I tried to model my game after Hakeem Olajuwon. But I would say my game now is more like Kawhi Leonard.

Talk a bit about your strengths on the court. What kind of an offensive player are you? You can score and are a very good rebounder for 198cm

I think I’m a well rounded offensive player. I can shoot the ball very well, I can post up and take guys to the basket. I’m a very physical player. I love to battle and do the little things. I think I’m a very good defender as well. I honestly like playing defense more than offense.

What is a hidden strength in your game that isn’t noticed right away on the court?

I think my IQ because people look at me physically and think I’m just going to be a player that uses brute strength all the time.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to grow as a player?

My ball handling to be able to run the PG as well as being able to play the SG/SF positions

You began your college career in 2003 at Shenandoah (NCAA3). That was 20 years ago. What memories do you have from that time. How has basketball changed in that time?

I remember my first practice just blowing guys away because I wasn’t intimidated and my teammates didn’t expect me to work as hard as I did. Basketball has changed drastically. The game was played in more of a halfcourt set and there were true big men and they were used a lot more. Today the game is more guard oriented, more 3s are taken and a higher volume of shooting.

You then played 41 games for Shaw (NCAA2) from 2004-2007. You never averaged more than 2,5ppg in a season. Do you feel like you got a fair chance there?

I don’t think I really did totally. I think there was a bit of a stigma of the walk on guy but I won some of my teammates over because I worked really hard. There was definitely favoritism but I just tried to focus on what I could control which was how hard I worked and played and making the most of every opportunity I got on the floor though the mins were very few.

How did head coach Robert Brickey groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

By not rolling out the red carpet for me and forcing me to grind and work for everything.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Brandon Greene?

Me haha

You have played in various semi pro leagues in the States. Talk a little about the grind. What continues to be the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenges are the pay, the stability and the recognition. Most of the time you’re not getting paid a lot or if at all and you can play really well but a lot of teams overseas won’t respect it so they tend to focus on the fact that you played in a minor league instead of seeing that you can really play.

You have seen so many guys over the years and battled so many guys. Do you remember having an experience playing against a guy that was unknown then but was able to move up the ladder to a high level?

Most of the guys I played that played at high level were already known to some degree.

In the 2015-2016 season you were teammates with American Chris Miller who has carved out a fine 8 year pro career overseas. What memories do you have of him?

Chris was great to be around. He was very determined, hard working and hungry. He played with a chip on his shoulder but was very inquisitive and wanted to learn so much about the game and was always trying to get better. I’m very proud of him, because he could of given up, but he kept fighting and kept pursuing his dream and it paid off-.

You had a work out with the Houston Rockets and John Lucas. What do you remember staying with you from that experience and what advice do you remember getting?

The detail of everything and paying attention to detail. My biggest take away was the minor things because those are the things that make the biggest impact. There are very small things that separate players at that level. The best advice I got was to stay in excellent shape and to learn the business so you don’t get taken advantage. And to learn how to invest wisely.

Who was the toughest player you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

I’ve played against a lot of former and current players. But I would have to say Kevin Durant was definitely the toughest and hardest to guard.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

In no particular order: John Kornegay, Cameron Butler, Robert Espinosa, Latrell Alford, Brandon Greene

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Hakeem Olajuwon and Magic Johnson

Who is your GOAT and why?

Michael Jordan is the GOAT but my GOAT is Hakeem Olajuwon. He was extremely skilled had incredible footwork, could move like a guard and was a defensive presence. All time leader in blocks. And in a season lead the league in blocks and steals.

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

Coming to America is my favorite movie l. Yes I did. They definitely should’ve left it alone. You can’t mess with a classic

Thanks Stephen for the chat.

Will Valsien (188-G) is a 188cm guard from Florida that is taking part at the Howard Hoops pro Combine in Italy. He began his basketball career at Game changers academy and also played at Boynton Beach High School. He then played 2 seasons and 55 games at Copper Mountain College (JUCO): averaging 8.4ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 17.4%, FT: 75.6% and 8.0ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.2%. He then played 2 seasons at Le Moyne-Owen College (NCAA2) playing 45 games. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.

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

Where I’m at in my basketball journey I’m ready to be a pro. I have learned so much over the years from prep school and college that I’m ready to put it all together and be a pro.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Pro Combine in Italy. How excited are you to come overseas and show your skills?

Yes I’ll be taking part in the Howard hoops pro combine in Italy. I’m really excited. I really want to show the overseas teams what I can do and what I can bring to the table. This is an amazing opportunity for me and I’m extremely grateful to Howard hoops and I appreciate the opportunity

.
How did you find contact with Ron Howard? Was it more through guys you know of finding information online?

I found out about Howarrd hoops through social media.

How thankful are you for having found Ron Howard? He has been helping guys get jobs overseas for a decade.

I’m extremely thankful. Trying to become a pro is extremely hard and having someone who has been through the process and has helped others through the process is a blessing.

What do you appreciate most about him? He is a guy that lives and breathes basketball and wants to give the underdog a shot.

What I appreciate about him the most about him is his honesty. He’s a guy that keeps it real and has a tremendous love for the game.

Your coming out of school now and hope to find a pro team. Do you feel like your ready to come overseas? Have you made any notes or gotten tips from guys that were overseas?

I feel like I’m as ready as I Can be. Yeah I’ve gotten a lot of tips, the tips I hear the most are be a dog, stay ready and be in shape.

It is really difficult to come overseas when you play in lower college leagues. What do you feel you have as a player and person that would enrich any organization?

To come in with a chip on my shoulder and continue to be a good person and role model.

Let’s talk a big about your game. If you had to describe your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say Dru Holiday or Marcus Smart. I love defense and love watching defensive minded guards play.

What are your strengths as a player? You can fill the stat sheet well.

I played good defense, I took the basket really well and I’ll do whatever Coach needs me to do with it as guard the best player or put some points on the board.

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

I believe I’m a great defender. Defensiveness has always been a staple in my game but I’m still grown as a person and a player so I believe there’s more things I can learn on the defensive end.

What is a hidden strength in your game that isn’t noticed right away on the court?

My playmaking ability, I’m such a great defender that sometimes gets overshadowed.

On what area of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to grow as a player?

Decision making of the pick and roll, making corner shots and shooting off of ball screens and pin downs

You played 2 seasons of JUCO ball At Copper Mountain. Every guy I have interviewed said it was tough but an experience they wouldn’t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

My two seasons at my Juco was really tough. I learned so much about myself as a man and as a player and I also wouldn’t trade it for the world. I’ve made great relationships and friends. Juco teammates will definitely be at my wedding.

In your 2 years at Copper Mountain you averaged 8.4ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 17.4%, FT: 75.6% and 8.0ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.2%. You seemed to be a role player. How did you grow as a player there?

My first year at Copper Mountain college I started off at the end of the bench and had to work my way to a starting spot. My role at first was to be a past first point guard but then I started to find my niche as a defender and my role on the team became bigger and bigger with every game.

How vital was head coach Devin Aye in your 2 years at Copper Mountain in terms of early basketball development?

He was very vital he has taught me a lot and I am extremely grateful to have had him as a coach

You then played 2 seasons at Le Moyne-Owen College (NCAA2) playing 45 NCAA 2 games and never averaged more than 2,7ppg. How tough was it coming from JUCO and not playing much? What positives could you get from the experience?

It was extremely tough. I dealt with injuries and self doubt. But it was for sure a learning experience it made me more hungry and it made me appreciate the game so much more also it challenge my character. But I remained a great teammate and learned a lot in those two years. Like to stay ready you never know when your opportunities is going come.

You scored in double figures twice against Delta State and Spring Hill. Were these wins and performances some of your most enjoyable there?

Yes, these wins were some of the most enjoyable moments I had. The coach gave me an opportunity to play and I took full advantage of it those four games.

What kind of relationship did you have with Bonzi Wells. How did you profit from his coaching skills?

I have a great relationship with Bonzi Wells I can call him right now and he’ll help me with anything I need he’s a great person on and off the court. He’s a cutthroat Coach and he preaches to stay ready for opportunities and to take full advantage of it because you never know when they are going to come

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Andrew Anderson?

We played it all the time but I definitely won a majority of them. Andrew is great teammate and super competitive

Who was the toughest player you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

Walt lemon Jr at an open gym

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Andrew Anderson, Anthony Rice ,Isayis Aris, Quando Lawrence and Gjred Wilson

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Micheal Jordan, Dwade , Rondo , Kobe ,Stephon Curry and Lebron James

Who is your GOAT and why?

D Wade because he inspired me to start playing basketball

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

They definitely should’ve left it alone.

Thanks Will for the chat.

Tags : WILL VALSIEN, LE MOYNE-OWEN COLLEGE, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Johnathan Boatright (190-SG-1994, college: GSU) is a 28 year old 190cm guard from Joliet, Illinois that will be taking part at the 2023 Howard Hoops Combine in Italy. He has pro experience having played for Basketball Academy of Moldova (Moldova-Divizia Nationala). He began his basketball career at Boilingbrook high school. He then split time at Joliet Jumior College (JUCO) and then played 2 seasons at Governors State University (NAIA) averaging 7.9ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 75.6% and in his senior year averaged 17.1ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 47.1%, FT: 73.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

Currently in Chicago and the basketball life is going well just waiting for the right opportunity

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Pro Combine in Italy. How excited are you to come overseas and show your skills?

Just excited to show my hard work that I’ve been putting in behind closed doors

How did you find the contact to Ron Howard? Was it more through guys you know of finding information online?

I found Ron Howard on social media and a lot of guys know about Ron Howard.

How thankful are you of having found Ron Howard? He has been helping guys get jobs overseas for a decade.

Very thankful for Ron helping me get this opportunity very appreciative

What have you appreciated most about him? He is a guy that lives and breathes basketball and wants to give the underdog a shot:

I appreciate the fact how professional, understanding, and more importantly how he shows that he cares about you

You have had professional experience overseas in Moldavia. With what kind of expectations are you going into the Combine and what is your goal?

Just to let the game come to me and don’t force things. The goal is to end up coming out with a contract

Let s talk a big about your game. If you had to describe your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would Russell Westbrook because the way he plays hard every play on both sides of the court. That’s how I play I give everything I got each and every play

Talk a little about your game. What are your main strengths? Is shooting your biggest strength? You shot out the lights in the NAIA

My biggest strength is defense. When it comes to the shooting aspect I just trusted all the hard work I’ve put in behind closed doors. Just let the game come to me

What is a hidden strength in your game that isn t noticed right away on the court?

My basketball IQ

You once had 7 steals in a game in the NAIA. How would you describe your defensive game?

I’ll describe it as I will do whatever it takes to win

On what area s of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to grow as a player?

Ball handling

You played JUCO for Joliet Junior College. I have interviewed 100 s of guys that played JUCO and each guy said it was a very tough journey, but one that helped their development. How was it for you?

Tough as well, but you just have to stay level headed through the journey

Your game really took off at Governors State University (NAIA) where youaveraged 17.1ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 47.1%, FT: 73.1% as a senior. How did your game grow in your senior year?

A lot of grind in the summer day and night of just grinding

How did head coach Tony Bates groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

How physical the game is overseas and playbooks

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Gerald Duckworth?

Me

You had your first pro experience with Team Rome (Eurobasket Summer League in Indianapolis averaging 13.3ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.7apg, 1.7spg, 2PT: 57.1%, 3PT: 47.4%, FT: 66.7%. How fierce do you remember being the competition there?

It was great a lot of high leveled guys there

You played for Basketball Academy of Moldova (Moldova-Divizia Nationala)averaging 18.5ppg, 6.5rpg, 3.5apg, 1.5spg. How was your first pro experience overseas? How tough was the whole process during COVID?

I had to adjust to the environment after I adjusted everything was smooth. COVID during that time was so tough. I just had to make sure I stayed healthy

Who was the toughest player you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

Tyler Ullis

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Can’t I’m thankful for all my teammates I played with throughout my years

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

MJ, Kobe, Shaq, Lebron, KD

Who is your GOAT and why?

My parents because they raised all 12 of my family members no matter the circumstances and I will forever be grateful for that

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

No I haven’t seen it so I can’t really judge it

Thanks Johnathan for the chat.

Tags : JOHNATHAN BOATRIGHT, BASKETBALL ACADEMY OF MOLDOVA, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Calvin Lee (G) is a guard that will be taking part at the 2023 Howard Hoops Combine in Italy. He has experience playing at Mesabi Range College (JUCO) where he averaged 18.6ppg, 6.0rpg, 4.1apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 68.1% as a senior. He has pro experience in the Dominican Republic. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I’m in my hometown at the moment playing in basketball leagues and staying in shape. Basketball life is treating me well seeing the journey that I’m on having another opportunity to play this game I love.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Italy. How excited are you to come overseas and show your skills?

I’m very thankful for this experience and I’m ready to show my skills and hopefully get a contract to continue my career.
How did you find the contact to Ron Howard?

A friend referred him to me on Instagram

How thankful are you of having found Ron Howard?

I’m very thankful for him presenting me with an opportunity to play in Italy.

What have you appreciated most about him?

His love and knowledge for the game and giving an underdog like me a chance.

You have pro experience in the Dominican Republic. I saw footage of your play. Talk a little about the league and what you saw there?

The league is competitive, fast paced and ball movement. The weather is great and the fans show a lot of love.

At 177cm, I can only imagine you get overlooked often. How much has height been a problem in your career?

It’s been a problem my whole career until I show that I can play. So I have to always prove I’m that much better because I’m always being judged based on height and not my skills before I step on the court.

Do you have an example or experience that you have had with your height that you will never forget?

My freshman year coming into high school I was judged based on my height and not skills so I didn’t get a chance to play varsity.

If you had to describe your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I get compared to Kyrie Irving because of my ball handing and creativity.

10. What are your biggest strengths in your game?

My shooting ,handle , and IQ.

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

I’m a great on ball defender and I want to become a great all around defender.

What is a hidden strength in your game that isn’t noticed right away on the court?

My ability to takeover games without scoring.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to grow as a player?

My shooting and IQ just always sharping those up to be more efficient and always willing to learn and teach the game.

In your last season of JUCO what was your fondest moment there?

That whole season because we only won 5 games the year before and we bounced back to be the No.2 seed in our conference.

Who won a 1-1 back in the day you or Calvin Green?

Always a great battle but I won.

Who was the toughest player you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

Jared Butler

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Remond Brown, Regional Johnson Jr, Chris Ellis, Martez Carter, and Dajon Divine

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Allen Iverson, Steph Curry, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan

Who is your GOAT and why?

Allen Iverson because he wasn’t supposed to be in the NBA due to his environment and obstacles he had to overcome he made it possible for undersized players to not only be in the NBA but to become MVP.

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

Yes I did see the sequel and they definitely should’ve have just left it alone.

Thanks Calvin for the chat

Jacob Watts-Jenkins (195-PG-1995, college: Huston-Tillotson) is a 27 year old 195cm guard that is taking part at 2023 Howard Hoops Combine in Italy. He has minimal pro experience having played at the Eurobasket Summer League in Indianapolis. He got sufficient experience playing at 4 schools at Kalamazoo Valley Community College (JUCO), Kennedy-King College (JUCO), Midland University (NAIA), and Huston-Tillotson University (NAIA). He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I am currently living in Orlando, Florida, the basketball life is treating me as good as it can.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Pro Combine in Italy. How excited are you to come overseas and show your skills?

I’m very excited to come overseas and showcase my talents I believe it is my best opportunity to get a contract somewhere.

How did you find the contact to Ron Howard? Was it more through guys you know of finding information online?

I was referred to him by a friend, found him on and instagram and eventually connected on WhatsApp

How thankful are you of having found Ron Howard? He has been helping guys get jobs overseas for a decade.

I’m thankful God has given me the opportunity to meet him.

What have you appreciated most about him? He is a guy that lives and breathes basketball and wants to give the underdog a shot:

I appreciate his availability and how fast he responsed to any questions or concerns, he shows good character every time we have talked or exchanged messages.

You have a unique story in that your 27 years old and only have Eurobasket summer league experience. I guess it’s safe to say that you have believed in yourself since the start. How tough has the pro grind been for you over the years?

Definitely believe in myself, the grind has lived up to its name it’s a daily routine to try to perfect your craft.

The odds are very slim for a guy like you your age to come overseas. What has kept you going on and on over the years?

Belief in God and myself and also motivation from my family.

You have little pro experience playing with Team Amsterdam (Eurobasket Summer League in Indianapolis, starting five): 3 games: 8.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg, 2PT: 63.2%, 3PT: 57.1%, FT: 20.0%How was that for you? I can imagine you were battling guys all day long with the same ambition like you.

Yes, it was good competition and I also had teammates that played pretty well also.

Let’s talk a big about your game. If you had to describe your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

If I had to describe myself as an NBA player I would say I’m like Will Barton or Mikal Bridges

You are a volume scorer but also can facilitate and are a versatile defender. Is shooting your biggest strength?

I believe shooting is one of my greatest strengths but I also like to be a playmaker as well.

What is a hidden strength in your game that isn’t noticed right away on the court?

I would say my IQ because it’s not something that is tangible.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to grow as a player?

Working on being a complete player and being able to run a team.

You played a total of 39 games at 4 schools. The grind wasn’t easy. Why do you think didn’t yu have more important roles for any of the schools?

I had a lot of inconsistency with my play which led to inconsistency in my minutes and it difficult once you get in those holes.

You played JUCO for 2 schools at Kalamazoo Valley Community College and Kennedy-King College. I have interview 100’2 of guys that played JUCO and each guy said it was a very tough journey, but one that helped their development. How was it for you?

It was a great experience have lifetime friends from both schools.

You also played at 2 NAIA schools at Midland University and Huston-Tillotson University. You never averaged more than 2,0ppg at either school. What did you learn as a player on and off the court about yourself?

I can withstand anything that comes my way in life.

What was your fondest moment in JUCO and NAIA play?

Being a teammate and lifting guys up all times.

Who was the toughest player you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

Demetrius Jackson, Devin Cannady and Blake Wesley.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Romeo Smith, Shamari Denson, Tevis Robinson, Terry Davis, Bryant Givens

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Magic Johnson

Who is your GOAT and why?

Michael Jordan, he’s a blueprint of hard work and talent

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

I never saw so absolutely believe they should have left it alone.

Thanks Jacob for the chat

Tags : JACOB WATTS-JENKINS, TEAM AMSTERDAM, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Kasdan Holder (190-F) is a 31 year old 190cm guard from Zebulon, North Carolina that is taking part at the 2023 Howard Hoops Combine in Italy. The American played at Wilson College (NCAA3) and has pro experience in the ABA. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I am in Lancaster, Pennsylvania right now and iIam building my way back to basketball shape. I’m working a 9 to 5 job and having a family. I still make time to train and get my body in shape for an opportunity.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Pro Combine in Italy. How excited are you to come overseas and show your skills?

Well I am pretty excited considering that it took me three years to get back to this point.

How did you find the contact to Ron Howard? Was it more through guys you know of finding information online?

Well it’s a weird story. I actually was not looking for him. He came up on a reel from another former overseas player that I follow on instagram.

How thankful are you of having found Ron Howard? He has been helping guys get jobs overseas for a decade.

I’m actually very thankful, even though I have not met him in person, I can tell that he is the real deal.

What have you appreciated most about him? He is a guy that lives and breathes basketball and wants to give the underdog a shot.

I appreciate the fact that he doesn’t offer dreams, he offers opportunities. Most of the camps and combines offers are usually fake and not legit but the way Ron explained how the combine was I could tell he was not bluffing.

You have a unique story in that your 31 years old and only have ABA experience. I guess it’s safe to say that you have believed in yourself since the start. How tough has the pro grind been for you over the years?

Well my story is based on my faith in God so I go at the grind based on what he told me and how he has been setting things up for me to achieve this goal. If you want to see the progress of my journey go check out my youtube channel and make sure you like and subscribe.

The odds are very slim for a guy like you at age 31 to come overseas. What has kept you going on and on over the years?

My faith in God. He told me that I was going to play professional basketball and he has made ways for me to keep going.

You have ABA experience. How was that for you? I can imagine you were battling guys all day long with the same ambition like you.

It was pretty good. I got a chance to play against some good players and had some experience as a pro.

Let’s talk a big about your game. If you had to describe your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

My game is pretty different and very unorthodox so I really can’t compare my game to a specific player.

Talk a bit about your strengths on the court. Could you imagine yourself being an impact player overseas?

Yes absolutely. 100 percent. Based on some factors of course like a specific team wanting a guy who can change the momentum of the game.

What is a hidden strength in your game that isn’t noticed right away on the court?

My shooting. It’s not my strength, however I have been working to make it an asset for me.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to grow as a player?

My conditioning. My game is a exciting, momentum changing type so I have to be conditioned first and foremost.

You played 2 seasons at Wilson (NCAA3). How was that experience for you? What was your fondest moment there?

To be honest with you it was not a good experience. My fondest moment was having to deal with not being wanted on the team.

How did head coach Brian Zoeller groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Well actually he didin’t prepare me at all. I did that on my own.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Marquis Nelson?

Me absolutely.

Who was the toughest player you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

Well I have faced a lot of great players but I don’t think any of them made it to the NBA.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Mark Harris (from high school), Jonathan Smith ( from high school) Bryan McCulloum (from high school) Xavier Wilkes (from high school), Raven Sills (from high school)

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Michael Jordan 2. Wilt Chamberlian 3. Shaq 4. Kobe

Who is your GOAT and why?

Michael Jordan. No one has dominated the league like he did in the nineties.

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

Yes I saw it and they did a great job with the movie. I think they did the right thing by bringing it back.

Thanks Kasdan for the chat.

Tags : CLARA BIELEFELD, HERNER TC 2ND TEAM, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Mathieu Grujicic after scoring 52 points in the 2023 JBBL final to pace Alba Berlin past Eintracht Frankfurt

Mathieu Grujicic (193-G-2007) is a 16 year old 193cm guard from Germany that has French roots. He played junior basketball for Alba Berlin the last years. Last season he played for Alba Berlin’s U-16 team leading team to the JBBL title. He recently helped lead Germany to a 5th place at the U-16 European championsships averaging 14,9ppg, 5,7rpg, 1,9apg, 2,4spg and shot 40% from outside. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Mathieu for talking to germanhoopscom. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

Thank you, Miles, for showing interest. At this very moment, I am literally on the crossroad when it comes to my next steps as a basketball player. Unfortunately, I still cannot speak about it. On the other hand, basketball is treating me exactly how I treat basketball: the more you give, the more the Greatest Game (the GG) gives you back. I was in Skoplje, taking part in the European Championship U16 with my team, which is great, and where I can measure myself with the best players of the continent and see where I stand in comparison to them, which is necessary and priceless.

Before we start, I have to ask you about your positive way of meeting people. You put your arms around legends like Dirk Bauermann and Gordon Herbert at the JBBL top 4 in Frankfurt and did the same with me. Do you do that with all people?

I was taught the GG should connect people and I take it to the letter. It is simply my way of getting closer to the big GG family and to their founding fathers. From there to put my arms on all people – absolutely not!

How would you greet Luka Doncic if you met him? I’m sure you would let him feel comfortable in that first meeting?

I would probably greet him by ‘Kako si, brate?’ (in Serbian: ‘What’s up, bro?’) and ask him if there is something I can do for him. I wonder how he would react.

Germany reached place 5 at the 2023 U-16. Did the team underachieve? After winning games showing it could destroy teams, but also win close battles against Spain and Israel, it lost badly to Italy. I can imagine everyone was more than disappointed?

You imagined right, it was a hard blow. But then, Italy has a great team, excellent shooters and they are a joyful bunch, you feel no restrain in their game, which must help them a lot.

The team shot badly against Italy, had too many turnovers and lost the rebound battle. Was it just one of those days where nothing went right for team Germany?

This sounds like a rhetorical question:

It is just a little difficult to understand after winning 4 games and then losing by 20 points in a quarterfinal game. Was the team as best prepared for the game?

Why is it difficult to understand, if I may? Every game is a story for itself. At least in this U16 tournament, there are no clear favorites beforehand. At least, not to my mind.

You left the U-16 Eurochampionships with a satisfying 79-73 win over Greece. How big was the dominating effort on the offensive glass for getting the win?

I believe we played a quite good defense in general. Isn’t there a saying : ‘A good defense is already a good offense.

How special was Declan Duru. He has been hyped a lot. What do you enjoy most about his game?

To be honest, I only ‘enjoy’ the final score, and only when we take a win, particular effort goes without saying. But Declan is hundred percent special, no doubt about it.

Another very special player is Davi Remagen. In some ways you are similar. You guys both led your teams in the JBBL and are explosive. What do you appreciate most about his game?

I don’t feel comfortable complimenting a friend in public. If we have a game to play together, I will be there, anytime, anywhere.

Who was the toughest player that you faced at the U-16 tournament?

The toughest ‘player’ to play against were the high spirits of the Italian team.

You had a solid U-16 tournament. You averaged 15,9ppg, 5,9rpg, 1,9pg, 2,4spg and shot 40% from outside. How would you rate your play in the games?

I absolutely cannot rate my own playing. Nor anybody else’s playing, for that matter. It is not up to me, really.

Let’s talk a little about your game. You’re a guy that doesn’t like to compare your game to other players. But which comparisons have you heard people give you?

I honestly haven’t heard any comparison of the sort. At this age, we are all still trying to build up a sort of meaningful way or style of playing. If I do remind people of someone, I’ll take it as a compliment.

Your scoring really stands out, but your also a great playmaker and defender. What is your biggest strength on the court?

I have many weaknesses on the court. To acknowledge them is probably my biggest strength.

You shoot the ball with such ease and confidence at your age. What do you take pride in most when you shoot the three?

I take no pride in it at all. I just want a damn ball to go in!

You’re a great defender at your age. Defense isn’t always liked to do at a young age. Is it fair to say you’re a lock down defender already? How would you classify your defensive game and what kind of defender do you still want to become? A lock down defender?

I don’t think my coaches will agree but thank you. The plan remains always the same: reducing a guy’s high-scoring pace to one digit. But I would really like to see one day in my opponent’s eyes that well-known expression ‘oh no, not him’.

On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can become even better?

Learning how to move without the ball is my main concern at this moment.

How special was the 2022-2023 Alba Berlin JBBL team? What made the team so special?

For two years, we had the same coach, Josef Dulibic, who allowed us to reach our own conclusions about who should do what in order to win. And during all this time he had unlimited confidence in us. I am absolutely grateful to him.

The final win over Eintracht Frankfurt was so thrilling. Was that one of your greatest games so far in your young career?

As far as the stage goes, yes.

You scored 49 points. How early did you know that it could be a very good scoring game for you?

In fact, I scored 52 points. But during the game, I was unaware of the exact scoring.

You had a massive scoring duel against U-16 teammate Ivan Crnjac. Did you guys talk about that unforgettable duel the last weeks?

Not really, Ivan is now a great teammate and this summer, we had a bigger fish to fry.

What is the next step for you? There has been word you will leave Alba Berlin?

Alba is my club, Berlin is my city. This cannot change.

What is your biggest goal, the NBA or Euroleague?

My biggest goal is to have no regrets for trying to become a good basketball player.

Who is the toughest player that you have ever faced in your career so far?

The whole Real Madrid 2005/2006 team.

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Zeljko Obradovic, Micheal Jordan, Nikola Jokic and thousands of anonymous players that help the GG rolling every day.

Who is your GOAT?

The GG!

Thanks Mathieu for the chat.

Tags : MATHIEU GRUJICIC, ALBA BERLIN 2ND TEAM, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Troy Burrows (183-PG-1998, college: Illinois Coll.) is a 25 year old 183cm guard that was born in Illinois and will be playing at the Howard Hoops Pro Combine in Italy in August. He began his basketball career at Immaculate Conception High School. He then got vast experience playing at 3 schools. He began at JUCO school John Wood Community College. He then played at Millikin University (NCAA3) averaging 7.4ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 35.4%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 62.5%. He then finished at Illinois College (NCAA3) averaging 13.7ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 58.8%, and 6.6ppg, 1.4rpg, FGP: 35.2%, 3PT: 22.7%, FT: 50.0% as a senior. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.

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

Thank you for talking with me, I’m very grateful for the opportunity to take a minute and talk. Basketball has been good I’ve been enjoying the process of getting better everyday and working on my game. At the moment I’m waiting to start my rookie year here in the states.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Pro Combine in Italy. How excited are you to come overseas and show your skills?

I’m very excited to get out to Milan and compete and show my ability for the first time in Europe. I’m thankful for Coach Ron and everything he’s done up until this point to get us prepared and ready to go. I’m excited and humbled by the opportunity to have this experience and show what I can bring to a club first-hand.

How did you find the contact to Ron Howard? Was it more through guys you know of finding information online?

I actually found Ron through the agent that I’ve been working with Darijan Briski. He highly recommended Ron and his combine as well as other people that I look to for advice like Sean McCaw. Both had great things to say about Ron and the opportunity he provides with his combine. My experience has been really great so far with Ron so I’m looking forward to it

How thankful are you of having found Ron Howard? He has been helping guys get jobs overseas for a decade.

Yeah I’m extremely grateful to have met Ron and everything he’s done for us so far has been really a blessing. For me personally seeing someone like him who plays my position have success overseas and is now helping guys like myself get jobs. He’s really put his best foot forward all summer so I can only imagine how great this experience will be in Milan.

What have you appreciated most about him? He is a guy that lives and breathes basketball and wants to give the underdog a shot:

Yeah I think that’s where I can relate the most and appreciate the most about him is his willingness to help the hidden gems of the guys that may just need a foot in the door. I appreciate him going out of his way to make other people’s dreams turn into a reality and setting us up for success long after this combine is over and hopefully help us establish a solid foundation in the overseas game. It’s hard to find genuine good guys and that’s what Ron has been, so it’s been great to have someone who has a genuine passion for the game the way I do in my corner this summer.

Your just coming out of college and are extremely young. How tough has the pro grind been for you in the last year?

The grind has been tough. There’s definitely better days than others. I’ve had a lot of ups and downs in the process. A lot of my friends are already overseas playing so it does get to be difficult at times. I’m enjoying the process and really falling in love with the grind and building habits that will make me a successful pro for years to come. I think being young will definitely play to my advantage for clubs, I’m ready to go, I’m fresh, and have been preparing for a full year to be the best player I can be and to help an organization win ball games.

The odds to come overseas are slim. What keeps you going knowing that the odds aren’t good?

I think I’m the type of person who’s always been told what they can’t do and at every level I’ve developed and proved people wrong. I think the same applies here I think if you work and stay focused then anything is possible. I’m very confident in the work I put in and what I think I can bring to teams overseas. I think my skill set translates to the style of play and the direction the games going in.

Let’s talk a big about your game. If you had to describe your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say I draw from a lot of different players I think that obviously being undersized I gravitate towards watching Steph Curry and Kyrie Irving. I think I have some similarities to both players in terms of how I score the ball in the midrange a lot like Ky and my ability to shoot the ball with range and confidence of Steph. I can also see myself being able to help teams a lot like Jose Alvarado and Gabe Vincent as a solid lead guard. I also watch a lot of overseas guards like Mike James, Clevin Hannah, David Logan. I think my game has a lot of similarities to those guys as well.

Talk a little about your game. What are your main strengths? Is shooting your biggest strength? You made 171 three’s in school.

Shooting is definitely one of my biggest strengths both from 3 and in the midrange. I’ve been a shooter since I started playing so I rely on it because it’s something that every team needs and can translate with my range as well. I was pretty efficient my final year shooting the ball and was able to score in the midrange effectively as well which helped open up my 3pt shooting a lot more.

What is a hidden strength in your game that isn’t noticed right away on the court?

I would say my ability to distribute and make plays for other guys is something that doesn’t pop out right away. I think that I can find guys and make plays. I hope to show that more as my career goes on that I’m an effective passer as well in transition and in the half court or in the pick and roll as well. I also think defensively I can get after guys and cause problems on the other end as well that’s not something that really shows in a highlight tape so I look forward to showcasing that to teams in Milan as well.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to grow as a player?

I’ve been working a lot on my strength and conditioning to be in the best shape and be able to compete with guys bigger and stronger than me. I’ve been working on cutting and moving without the ball and off the ball as well so I can continue to grow as a player.

You played JUCO for John Wood Community College. I have interviewed 100’s of guys that played JUCO and each guy said it was a very tough journey, but one that helped their development. How was it for you?

JUCO is definitely a grind. You have to have a certain level of toughness to go through a JUCO season let alone win games at that level. I think being a part of a winning program definitely helped my development as a player and overallJUCO helped me grow on and off the court.

You played a season at Millikin University (NCAA3) averaging 7.4ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 35.4%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 62.5%. How was that experience for you and what was your fondest moment there?

Millikin was a good experience. The CCIW is a great conference one of if not the best in the country at that level. A lot of pros have come from that conference as well as now with the transfer portal guys have transferred to D2 powers as well as D1 schools. I think playing against high level competition every night and being able to compete every night was really great for me. I think my best memory is just playing in front of some of the bigger crowds at the NCAA3 level was a great experience it’s always fun to play well in a packed gym and you learn a lot when you don’t play as well in those same environments which helps you grow as a player.

You played a season at Illinois College (NCAA3) averaging 13.7ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 58.8%. How tough was this season for you? It got cancelled because of COVID. Do you sometimes wonder how that season may have gone without COVID?

I loved my time at Illinois college. It was a great experience with an even better group of guys. I think with a full season we could’ve made a run that year in the tournament. We made the mock tournament that year which was cool but doesn’t compare to actually playing in it. I really enjoyed my time at IC and I’m proud of how far the program has come. The year before I got there they weren’t really on the map and Coach Schweer and the guys have built that into a power at the NCAA3 level so I’m just glad to have been a part of that.

How did Steve Schweer groom and prepare you for a professional career?

I think Coach Schweer did a great job of putting me in a situation where he trusted me and let me be free and show what I could do. I think he prepared me as a leader for my pro career on and off the court which is most valuable. I think on the court being able to be free and have that trust helped me have a big year and helped me with my confidence going into my professional career. I’m very grateful for Coach Schweer and Coach Jay for all they did for me in my time at Illinois College.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Deandre Enoch?

Dre is my guy! We had some battles in practice but never played 1 on 1 haha. I’ve known Deandre since the 8th grade so he’s one of my favorite teammates I’ve ever had.

Who was the toughest player you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

I would say probably Jalen Brunson. There’s a YouTube highlight somewhere of me playing against him in high school. He’s really crafty and physical so he gave me some trouble when I was younger. Jevon Carter and Jordan Poole are a close second and 3rd in terms of tough matchups.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Only 5 is tough I got love for a lot of my teammates but I would say

Aziz Fadika, Chima Oduocha, Will (Tre) Rogers, TJ Irvin, and my high school teammate Angel Ramirez

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

My personal all time Mount Rushmore is Kobe, Mj, Steph Curry, and Lebron. I have to add one for Allen Iverson as well.

Who is your GOAT and why?

My GOAT is Kobe Bryant. Kobe growing up was everything for me. He’s the reason why I’m still playing to this day. He’s the most skilled most cold blooded player in NBA history to me. His mentality has inspired me more than words can describe.

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

Haha I actually haven’t seen the sequel yet I need to watch it the original Coming to America is a classic and one of my favorite movies so I think usually it is best to leave the classics alone and let them be.

Thanks Troy for the chat.

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