pic credit: Maria van Tillburg/Tatyana Klee

Deion Hammond (193-G-1999, college: Monmouth, agency: One Motive Sports) is a 24 year old 193 cm guard from Upper Marlboro, Maryland playing his third professional season and first with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg currently averaging 7,3ppg and 2,0rpg in the BBL and 5/1 in the BCL.. Last season he played with Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden (Holland- BNXT League) averaging 14.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.6%, 3PT: 44.6%, FT: 86.3%. He played his rookie season with CS Municipal Ploiesti (Romania-Liga) averaging 14.3ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 84.3%. He began his career at Riverdale Baptist high school and then played at Monmouth University (NCAA) from 2017-2021 playing a total of 115 games. In his senior year he averaged 16.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 38.1%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 74.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

No problem, thanks for reaching out! I’m currently playing for MHP Riesen in Ludwigsburg, Germany. Everything out here has been nice so far. I really have no complaints, I’m really just trying to grind through the preseason.

Congrats on signing with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. Head coach Josh King got a gem in Jhonathan Dunn last season from Leiden and now is hoping for his next gem from Leiden with you. What was the deciding factor for joining the MHP Riesen?

After sitting down and talking with my agent and my family, we came to a consensus that this would be the perfect next step for me and my basketball career. The BBL is a very good and very respected league, and being able to play on a stage like the champions league is a blessing.

Did you get any useful tips from Doug Spradley who has coached in Germany for many years?

I learned a lot from coach Spradley throughout the season. He helped me especially on the defensive end, and gave me some keys that I can take with me and get better moving forward.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Do you know of any guys that have played in Germany?

In general, I know that Germany is a good basketball country and is very respected in the basketball world. They just proved even more after winning the world cup. Many great players have come and gone through Germany, but there’s only a couple that I know personally. My guy Justin Robinson actually played on Brose Bamburg a couple years back, a team we will face in the league.

Your playing in one of Europe´s top leagues. What do you believe will be the biggest challenge for you on the court coming from Holland?

I think so far the biggest adjustment for me has been the pace of play. Coming from my team in Holland we were an ok transition team and we ran a lot of sets in the half court. Here at Ludwigsburg we play very up-tempo and fast pace the entire game.

You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

If I had to pick NBA players to compare myself to I guess I would say shades of Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, they are 2 of my favorite players and I definitely study their games.

You can score and shoot the ball. What other strengths does your game have?

I’m progressing every day at becoming a better defender, I’m decent at getting steals and disrupting plays. I think my body size, physical tools/athleticism helps a lot.

Your three pointer continues to be a work in progress. On what area´s are you focusing most on this summer so your shot will take off in the BBL?

In the summer I worked a lot on all three levels. I make sure I spent enough time working on touch around the basket and close range, my mid-range game, and a lot of different 3 point looks of course. My main focus in the summer is usually ball handling and trying to get quicker and stronger.

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

Right now I’m just a solid defender. I’m decent on the ball and pretty good at reading and getting some steals. I want to be better at all aspects of defense because I think it can separate me, especially I need work on off the ball awareness and communication.

Last season you won the triple with Leiden. There are probably 80% of guys overseas that can´t say they have won 3 titles in your career. What was so special about last season´s team?

Last year’s team was so special because we played really well together. Everybody bonded well off the court and I think it translated. The crazy thing is, we weren’t a good communicative team in games, so the fact that we pulled off a triple crown is amazing to me and I’m grateful to have been a part of something that amazing.

Take me back to the last 140 seconds in the last playoff game against Groningen where you helped your team come back from 16 points and win the title. Were you guys playing on total adrenaline?

I actually fouled out in the middle of the fourth quarter so I wasn’t in the game when we made that crazy run. Salute my guys Lucas Kruithof and Luuk Van Bree, they were the key factors for us to spark that run and get a victory. I can’t forget Tommy Rutherford, he hit the free throws that sealed the win.

You also won the BNXT league. How challenging was this competition and how do you feel did your game grow there?

I did feel like my game got to grow in the BNXT, it was good to see the other side of the league with the Belgian competition. They had more teams towards the top of our league so it was definitely a challenge.

You played your rookie season with CS Municipal Ploiesti (Romania-Liga I) averaging 14.3ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 84.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I never really had a wake up call because I knew what I was getting myself into. I do say it took a minute to adjust to the time zone differences, because I’m used to being away from home, but I wasn’t used to not being able to talk to my people for hours at a time.

You played 4 years at Monmouth (NCAA) reaching the Mac final in 2019. What was your fondest moment there?

I had many, reaching that championship game after starting the season 0-12 was special for sure. I could also say reaching the 1,000 point mark, or even breaking the all-time 3pt record was one of my best moments.

As a freshman you lost by 16 points to NCAA powerhouse Kentucky where you played against future NBA players, Knox, Washington and Diallo. You also held your own against Shai Gillgeous-Alexander scoring 19 points to his 15 points. What memories do you have of this game and did that convince you that you could play with anyone?

I will always remember that game because I’ve always wanted to play against schools like Kentucky, so doing that as a freshman in Madison Square Garden where a lot of history was made, was surreal for me.

You made a great jump in your last 2 seasons in the NCAA. How do you feel did your game grow in the last 2 years?

The goal in college was to get better every year, and after having an ok sophomore year I had to look in the mirror because it wasn’t the year I wanted to have. My last 2 seasons I think what helped me was slowing down a little and letting the game come to me, taking what the defense gave me. I think that’s what took me up to being one of the best players in the conference.

How did head coach King Rice groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He prepared me every single day. Our whole coaching staff did, I don’t think I would have made it professionally if it wasn’t for the wisdom they passed down to me while I was growing up in my time at Monmouth.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or George Papas?

Me and G and a pretty good record with king of the court 1’s. We normally play with about 3-5 people, but I think our amount of wins are pretty even.

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

I would say Shai Gilgeous Alexander.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Ray Salnave 2. Micah Seaborn 3. George Papas 4. Austin Tilghman 5. Naji Marshall

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kobe Bryant 2. Michael Jordan 3. Allen Iverson 4. Dwayne Wade

Who is your GOAT and why?

Kobe Bryant will always be my GOAT because I grew up watching him and his wisdom and approach to the game has taught me a lot and will always stick with me.

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

I don’t think I have seen it, but now I definitely have to give it a watch!

Thanks Deion for the chat.

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

How did you get into 2024? How was New Years eve in Germany?

My New Year’s Eve was pretty calm it was just spent with my girl.

Congrats on the big 83-82 win against Hagen-Haspe. Would you classify this as a rivalry?

Thank you, it was definitely one for the books. I would say yes. Even if it’s just my first year here, I could feel the energy and motivation both teams and the fans had to come out on top in the derby. Both games didn’t disappoint one bit and we’re fortunate to have come out on top both games.

The game had a close finish, but how was your summary of the 40 minutes?

The game was completely close the whole game until just the 4th quarter when we found ourselves in a hole down 12 points. But one thing about us is we never ever lose hope and it shows by the amount games we’ve been able to win this season after being down with little time left.

Talk a little about the last minute and what was key for the win?

Well the last minute was when we had finally made our comeback and the game was back tight again. With 15 seconds left, Haspe got fouled on a 3, going 2-3 at the line. We’re now down one and coach draws a play that we executed well and found ourselves up one with 7 seconds left. We couldn’t have played better defense for the last possession and Haspe wasn’t able to get a shot off and that was the game. The key was we kept fighting the entire game and took it one possession at a time when we were down late. That’s been us for the whole season thus far.

The team rebounded well but didn´t shoot great from outside? What was the team´s biggest strength in the game?

I think we were very aggressive going to the basket this game but were not getting foul calls we expected by the refs but still we kept putting pressure on them from the bigs to the guards. But we hit much needed three’s when we desperately needed them so it all worked out.

You had a great first game in 2024 with 31/12 stats and 4 steals and shot 50%. I guess the 5 turnovers had you a bit upset?

Definitely was upset about that. I could tell I was a bit rusty the first game back after the break because I had many uncharacteristic turnovers and wasn’t flowing like I would like. But it happens and it’ll be fixed come next game.

You next play Munster 2 who are 6-9. You easily won the first game scoring 101 points. What will be key to getting the win?

I think playing fast and rebounding will be the key just like the last time and putting pressure on their young squad along with the veteran König. We have to keep rolling now and play like it’s a playoff game because still any team can win against anyone and that’s the scary thing about this region.

Thanks Shawn for the chat.

Tajion Jones (194-G-1999, college: UNC Asheville) is a 24 year old 194cm guard from Tennessee playing his rookie season overseas with Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden (Holland-DBL). He began his basketball career at Oak Ridge high school finishing his prep school career with 1,246 points, 148 steals and 136 assists. He then embarked on a 5 year career at the University of North Carolina – Asheville (NCAA). He played a total of 149 NCAA games. In his last year he averaged 14.9ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 60.8%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 71.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the Niners Chemnitz.

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

I think basketball life is treating me well at the moment. I’ve always wanted to be a pro playing the sport I love, so I think I’m at a good place at the moment.

Your playing your rookie season with Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden (Holland-DBL). What kind of an experience has it been coming from Tennessee and North Carolina living in Holland in a very flat country? What have you learned to appreciate most about the country and the people?

Coming from Tennessee and North Carolina, my experience living in the Netherlands has been cool. This is my first time ever being in Europe and the furthest I went out the country in the US was to the Bahamas. It is indeed very flat here and that reminds you of Florida a little bit lol. The thing I’ve learned to appreciate the most here is that mostly everyone here speaks English very well. So, it wasn’t very hard for me to adjust and kind of get around the city a little bit

The team is doing very well in the BNXT league and Fiba Europe Cup. You also already won your first chip as a pro winning the Super Cup. There seems to be no superstar and everyone playing for each other. What is the secret to the success?

I think the secret to our success is that we do play for one another and that we all trust each other’s abilities on the court. I think that we have a good team chemistry and that nobody is selfish on our team as well.

The club only has 2 Americans and has done it with good Dutch role players on the side. How much credit does Doug Spradley get. He was successful in Germany for many years and now has made a name in Holland. How has he been able to shape the success?

I mean I think coach gets a lot of credit. He has a good system and a good amount of plays that can set you up to score in various ways. He helps me out a lot being a former player at the same position I play and is always giving me advice and pointers on how to be good in this league and for the future of my career.

Have you formed a special bond to American Alex Gross? What have you learned to appreciate the most about his game?

I think Alex and I have formed a little bond with each other. We definitely get along with each other and always talk about things on and off the court. I appreciate that he can finish down low and also step out and hit an occasional three as well. He has good IQ as well.

Let´s talk about your game. Your a 194cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would fit the description best?

If I had to compare my game to someone that was in the NBA. I haven’t really thought about who my game is somewhat like in the NBA. Growing up my favorite player was Carmelo Anthony and tried to take a little bit of his scoring. I obviously don’t have or use his incredible post up game but I did take his triple threat attack. He used his jabs and fakes so well that he could get a shot off without having to move or take a dribble. It also helped him get his defenders to bite on one of the fakes so he could drive to the basket. But, back to who would my game resemble I would say a little bit of Klay Thompson because of his ability to catch and shoot the ball off pin downs, transition, mid range curls off pindowns, and how he defends.

One thing that stands out in your game is consistency something that you built in the NCAA. What other strengths does your game possess?

I would say other strengths my game posses is my ability to shoot the 3pt shot. I would also say my ability to finish around the rim as well. I have gotten really good at using my floaters and high off the glass layups against taller/bigger defenders as well.

You shot over 40% from the three point line in 3 of 4 NCAA seasons. What are your biggest goals as a professional in the next years as you view the development of your outside shot?

To continue perfecting my shot. That’s what helped me get to this point and I want to continue to get better at shooting off the dribble like I did last year. I’ve been continually working on shooting threes off the dribble after moves like crossovers, behind the backs, off the pick and roll, etc. and that’s what helped me be more dynamic instead of being just a spot up shooter.

What kind of defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I think I’m a pretty good defender right now but, I still want to continue to get better at being a defender. There’s still a couple things I need to work on to be better but that will come with time and experience as well. I want to be an elite 3 & D player as I progress through my career.

On what areas of your game are you working on most as you continue to develop further as a player?

I would say I am continuously working on my handle. You can always have a better handle and that’s one area of my game that I am working on the most. I am also just working on reads within the offense as well but that just comes with more experience being a pro.

You played at the University of North Carolina – Asheville (NCAA) from 2018-2023. You had a 4-27 record as a freshman and came back for a 5th season and won the Big South title and reached the Big dance. Was this the best times of your basketball life? How did you develop as a player and man?

I would definitely say that my final year at Asheville was probably the highest moment in my basketball life. I finally won a ring after being close to winning one in middle school and in high school. To finally achieve that was something that I was really proud off. All the work through my college career finally paid off in the end and I think that I made the right decision to come back for my covid season. It all helped me develop as a player and as a man too. I was able learn how to take care of things on my own and to find out my own routine as a player as well.

You came back for a 5th season as you stated you had unfinished business after suffering that last second loss to Charleston Southern. How important was this last season. How did you grow as a man?

Like I mentioned before I think my decision to come back for my 5th season was the best decision I could have made. I was able to win a conference title and I think it gave me another year to better prepare myself for ball after college. It really helped me get into the position I’m in now.

You were down by 14 points in the conference final to Campbell but led an incredible comeback scoring 13 points in a row and winning the game. What will you always remember from that game?

I will always remember that the game isn’t over until it’s over. I learned that from the year before as well since we lost on a last second put back to CSU.

How did head coach Mike Morell groom and prepare you best for a proferssional career?

I think coach Morrell helped groom and prepare me to be a professional really well. Coach Morrell has a lot of guys he’s coached and put in the pros but he definitely helped me become the player I am today. The off-season workouts with him were always tough and they made me better each year. He’s seen and knows what it takes to be a pro and he helped me with knowledge and wisdom that he got from some of his former players.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jamon Battle?

I won the 1v1 for sure between me and Jamon “Doc” Battle. Doc and I have had some good battles in 1v1s against one another but I’m up in our series for sure.

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

I think the only one that I faced that was really tough that ended up in the NBA was Jaime Jaquez. He was really good and just knows the game really well. He could shoot, playmake, defend, etc. He was an elite player. But I’ve faced a lot of really good people in high school that made it to the NBA and the one that stands out is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He was elite in high school and we played him and his school a couple times in the summer (Hamilton Heights). He was just as crafty and smooth as he is in the NBA now

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I think my top 5 best teammates are LJ Thorpe, Drew Pember, Macio Teague, Trent Stephney, EJ Bush. And honorable mention would go to my guy Tee Higgins.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

My personal Mt. Rushmore would be Michael Jordan, Steph Curry, Allen Iverson, Carmelo Anthony, and honorable mentions would be Kevin Durant and Shaq.

Who is your GOAT and why?

My goat is Michael Jordan because the man was a straight killer. I know people love to say LeBron James because of all of his accolades and records but Michael Jordan could’ve done more if he never retired once or twice. He did a lot more than LeBron in a shorter span and lesser games too. Mike was a different breed. I respect everything LeBron has done and achieved but nobody tops Michael Jordan for me. His highlights of his finishing around the rim and his elite post fade was a work of art. His hangtime in the air when he jumped was insane.

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

I didn’t see the sequel of the classic Coming To America and I didn’t even know there was a sequel out lol. The original was a hilarious classic and I think I could recite some lines word-for-word.

Thanks Tajion for the chat.

It definitely helps coming from Boston That my GOAT is Larry Bird. When you grew up in the 80’s you really couldn’t go wrong with that choice. If you were from L A it would probably have been Magic or Kareem and from Philly it would most likely have been Julius Erving. In today’s age the 2 most common guys mentioned are Michael Jordan and LeBron James (203-SF-1984). Other guys that also are listed by many are Kobe Bryant or Steph Curry. For professional player Kareem Green (F) there is only one GOAT for him. ‘LeBron James is my Goat.He’s the number 1 scoring leader of all time and he sits at number 4 all time assists leader, and he’s been to 10 NBA finals won championships for 3 different organizations. He’s a great passer, a great leader and teammate. He’s a great father and husband and he impacts his community in a positive way for all those reasons he’s my goat’, stressed Kareem Green.PIf I would have had to pick one favorite moment from Larry Bird, It would have been difficult picking just one. It is safe to say that the most famous Bird moment was surely when he stole the ball in game 5 of the 1987 series against the Detroit Pistons. Other great moments that I remember was when he was on course for a quadruple double against Utah having 9 steals by the start of the fourth quarter but subbed himself out not chasing numbers, or his 60 points against the Atlanta Hawks or playing left handed for a half against Portland achieving a triple double and 47 points and game winning shot or combing for 81 points with Dominique Wilkins in an epic 1988 playoff battle or winning 3 NBA Allstar three point shooting contests and last but not least his endless trash talking duels with anyone who had the audacity to take him on as Xavier Mcdaniel and Merry Bleeping Christmas Chuck Person found out. Not to mention his dazzling no look passes. I really couldn’t mention one. Finding a LeBron James favorite Moment isn’t easy either. ‘I have 3 favorite Lebron moments. One moment for sure was this entire last season. It was crazy watching Lebron go from 14th place the first half of the season to being eliminated in the western conference finals at the age of 38. He carried his team as an old man something Jordan and Kobe couldn’t do at that age. Second was when the Cavs were down 3-1 to the Golden State Warriors and they came back and won the finals that was unheard of. My third favorite moment was Rookie Lebron vs Tmac 2003 Christmas game. Tmac had 41 and Lebron 34 and that was an epic game at the time. Tracy McGrady was top dog in the NBA so to see Lebron go against Tmac and kill,M we knew Lebron was going to be a major problem’, remembered Kareem Green.

In February 2023, the 39 year old NBA scoring record that Kareem Abdul Jabbar had held for almost 40 years was finally broken and from none other than LeBron James. If you were in the States and basketball fan, there is no way, you missed the game. ‘I did watch that game and it was beautiful to see Lebron pass Kareem with a step back mid range even though T Bryant had his man sealed in the paint. Lebron passing Kareem was like watching Leonardo da Vinci painting the Mona Lisa. It was art and it was also painful because we lost that game’, stressed Kareem Green. That this illustrious record stood for so long was no real surprise. ‘It stood for 40 years for a reason. Kareem was an excellent scorer, a basketball Sivart in the paint. I still can’t believe he scored all those points with no 3s. When people think of Lebron they think of a passer, a team leader not a scorer. It’s amazing how Lebron is number 1 In scoring and number 4 in all-time assists leader with 10,420 assists that’s unheard of’, stated Kareem Green. Lebron was all business that night showing his brutal scoring game and showed he can really explode at anytime for a game like that as if it was nothing. ‘I think he was gunning for that 38 points in 26 mins. He wanted to get it out the way and he was hungry for it. But yes just another day at the office for him. Last year he averaged 28.9 8 and 6 not bad for an old man’, smiled Kareem Green. On his record breaking play, Lebron received the pass from Mr triple double Russell Westbrook and made a fade away jumper. Will anyone remember the pass in 20 years and wouldn’t a dunk have been more spectacular for the fans? ‘Nobody will remember the pass. I didn’t remember the pass until you just said something and Russell is my man too. I really respect his game. I know Lebron is still capable of throwing it down hard and postering players but Lebron is an old man so a step back fadeaway is expected from him just like Kobe and Jordan once their athleticism was gone, they developed a wicked jump shot same thing Lebron has done. Actually that step back fadeaway is 1000 times better than a dunk because it shows growth in his game’, said Kareem Green. One has too wonder just how much that record breaking ball will be worth? ‘That’s a great question. According to basketball insiders the game jersey where he passed Kareem is worth 3 million so I’m thinking the ball maybe could be worth 1 maybe 2 million realistically. Idk is there a number for it yet Miles?’, added Kareem Green.

In today’s generation, you could find many that wouldn’t even know who Kareem Abdul Jabbar was, but Kareem Green knows exactly who Kareem was. The real basketball nerds even young know exactly who Mr skyhook was. ‘Well my father named me after Kareem so Kareem always had a special place in my heart you know. People only talk about MJ being the goat but Kareem has everything MJ has plus more to me. Kareem is definitely a top 3 player of all time. I would say if younger players are serious about the game and dedicated and study the game then it’s no way possible to not know who Kareem is’, commented Kareem Green. One has to wonder what would have happened had Lebron had had the audacity of making the record breaking shot with the famous sky hook? Back in the day, you would have found some interesting newspaper headlines and in 2023 social media would have exploded. ‘Social media would have had a field day with memes. If Lebron would have scored that basket with a skyhook. They already had hundreds of memes out on when he passed him so I could only imagine how the twitter and Instagram world would have reacted. But if Lebron did take a skyhook and made it and then said I’m paying respects to Kareem then that would have been so inspirational’, explained Kareem Green. How long will Lebron be able to keep the record? Possibly another 40 years, or could Luka Doncic break the record if he can suddenly become a physical specimen and keep the motivation? ‘I believe in due time it will be broken, because history repeats itself but in my opinion the person that’s going to break that record hasn’t been born yet. I think Lebron will have 40 years at the top like Kareem. I don’t think Lebron’s record will be touched any time soon. Luka can play until 60 and it still won’t come close and Luka is a beast. I think the person that will pass Lebron hasn’t even been born yet’, warned Kareem Green. The Harlem New York native has a lot of respect for Michael Jordan and definitely knows his basketball, but there is no doubt that this record gives him the GOAT status over Jordan. ‘This one record does not make Lebron the goat over Jordan but Lebron’s body of work makes him the goat over Jordan. 3 championships for 3 different organizations is extremely impressive 6 for 6 is too but when you take into consideration number 1 all time scoring number 4 all time assists leader top 30 in rebounds, Lebron longevity and hard work makes him the goat’, stressed Kareem Green. So what is my favorite Lebron moment? Well it actually never happened on the court. It was actually seeing him close up on a Boston street in January 2020, a little less than a week before Kobe Bryant tragically died. Not many can say they were that close to the planet’s greatest player. On the court, I just never watched lot of LeBron James. Living In Germany for more than 20 years, I just fell in love more with the Euro game and lost track of the NBA.

Collin Turner (185-G-1995, college: Angelo St.) is a 27 year old 183cm guard from Maryland playing his third professional season and first in Germany with BBG Herford (Germany-ProB). He began this season with Sabah BK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL) playing 3 Fiba Europe Cup games and averaging 3.0ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.0apg, 1.7spg and in the Azerbaijani league averaged 8.4ppg, 3.7rpg, 5.3apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 53.6%, 3FGP: 35.3%, FT: 84.6%. Last season he played with Gence BC Ganja (Azerbaijan-Superleague) ( averaging 19.9ppg, 6.9rpg, Assists-2 (6.6apg), Steals-1 (2.4spg), FGP: 51.3%, 3PT-2 (39.6%), FT-1 (87.0%). In 2021-2022 he played with Gtuni (Georgia-A League) averaging 15.4ppg, 4.7rpg, Assists-2 (4.0apg), Steals-1 (2.3spg), FGP: 55.2%, 3PT-3 (39.6%), FT: 79.5%. He got his first pro experience with the South Shore Monarchs (TBL). He began his basketball career with Poolesville High School and then played 2 years at Montgomery College (JUCO). He finished his college career at Angelo State University (NCAA2) averaging 17.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 79.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball. 

Thanks Collin for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome to Germany. You’re a JUCO man. How blessed do you feel to be playing the game you love overseas? Seldom do JUCO guys make the way overseas to ball as a professional? I take it you have learned to take nothing for granted?

I am extremely blessed to be playing overseas or playing basketball period. This game I have put so much time and effort into and to be able to play it at the next level means everything to me. I’m so grateful to be playing basketball overseas. Nothing is taken for granted I play every game like it could be my last.

You played in Georgia and Azerbaijan. Has it been like a culture shock to how different Germany is to these countries or haven´t you noticed yet?

Yes Germany is completely different from Azerbaijan and Georgia from what I’ve seen so far. Georgia and Azerbaijan are very clustered, everything on top of everything. Here in Germany landscape is more spread out suburban/country side type of feel so far a lot more spacious.

You know what the overseas grind is all about coming from Juco and the NCAA 2 and not getting a job overseas right away. How was the transfer market mid season? Did you have other offers despite Herford?

The market isn’t always promising but I had faith I would land a job good things come to those that wait & I just had to wait for what was right for me. I had some offers besides Herford but just didn’t think they were the best decision for me.

What was so appealing to Herford. What were the main reasons for coming?

Well Germany is a great basketball country so that was the main reason for me coming here. The opportunity to play in German and potentially move up or get seen by a team to excel my career to the next level. Plus the quality of life and modernization of Germany was really big for me.

What do you hope in achieving with your game. The club needs wins, but you won´t be required to be the savior either? How do you value you your self more than just being a 1-1 swap for Marquis Moore the other American that had to depart?

I hope to bring the club wins, make a run for the playoffs and fulfill my role anyway possible for my team. I’m a leader, someone who can control and team and someone the guys can lean on when things get tough. That’s something I think the club needs to push us over the hump of those close game losses that we can turn to victories.

You are a 185 cm guard that can fill the stat sheet. A bit like a Westbrook? To what NBA player would you compare your game to?

I’ve been compared to players like Devin Booker, Bradley Beal or Kyrie Irving from other people’s speculation of me. I would say Kyrie Irving because he’s my favorite player behind Lebron James. I’m a crafty, shifty, playmaking guard who can affect the game multiples ways on offense but I also play defense, I enjoy guarding teams best players, getting steals, forcing turnovers. I’m a 2 way guard that gets it done on both ends.

Could one call you Mr versatility. How vital is this in your game?

I would say yes you could call me Mr.Versatility. It’s very vital to be versatile when you have a player who isn’t one dimensional it makes them a lot harder to scout, someone who can take on any role given to them and excel on both ends of the floor.

Despite all your strengths is scoring still your biggest weapon?

Scoring for sure is probably my strongest weapon but playmaking as well being a scorer and being able to draw defenders to you and put other in position to score.

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

I’m a solid defender that plays solid defense can guard multiple positions. The defender I hope to become is a full court lockdown just pest kind of player like a Patrick Beverly. I’m a very good defender but still always room for Improvement to get better.

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

IQ & efficiency, basketball is a thinking man’s game you have to be able to make decisions the right decisions and the right plays in a split second and be able to out think your opponent. Also efficiency I want to be as efficient as possible that way I’m the biggest threat I can be on the floor making shots at a high percentage, having a great assist to turnover ratio to be the best I can be at my position.

After a great season in Azerbaijan last season, this season wasn´t the same. Why didn´t this season pan out the way last season did? It seemed like you were the odd man out of the the other 4 Americans?

Coming into Sabah this year I came in late and had to learn a complete new system and the team, we actually had 7 Americans at my time of arrival and 2 other foreign players with that many players it’s hard to give everybody minutes and points when only 3 foreign can play at a time. So I had to take on more of a true point guard role into setting offense making the right plays and scoring when it came back to me. Compared to last year in Gence we only had 4 Americans total and my role was to go win us games and take on a much bigger role.

Last season you played with Gence BC Ganja (Azerbaijan-Superleague) averaging 19.9ppg), 6.9rpg, Assists-2 (6.6apg), Steals-1 (2.4spg), FGP: 51.3%, 3PT-2 (39.6%), FT-1 (87.0%). How tough was losing the playoff series to Sabah where you had a triple double in the final loss?

Losing that series was very tough, because of all the things we endured during the season to get there. We had a lot less resources than other teams and still worked hard and grinded to make it to the finals so we felt we deserved it and it was right in our grasp. Couple different possessions defensively and we win the championship.

You had your first pro triple double against NTD. How cool was that and how aware are you that triple doubles are rare overseas no matter what level?

Triple doubles are always cool being able to impact the game 3 different ways at a high clip is special, I think triple doubles are special no matter where you are. It’s a rare part of the game so I think it means a lot no matter where you play at!

You played your rookie season overseas with Gtuni (Georgia-A League) averaging 15.4ppg, 4.7rpg, Assists-2 (4.0apg), Steals-1 (2.3spg), FGP: 55.2%, 3PT-3 (39.6%), FT: 79.5%. What do you remember being your wake up call to be overseas where you knew you were far away from home?

I think honestly the way of life & food. I couldn’t wake up in my own bed go jump in my car and drive all through my city, my routine was different I couldn’t find all the food I wanted & that was my wake up call like ok I have to make a couple adjustments to my day to day life to be able to live overseas.

How important was veteran Jamani Pierce in your rookie season? Was he like a mentor to you?

Jamani was a big part in my rookie season someone who’s lived it been there and knows what to expect guiding me and helping me through things that I sometimes might not have understood and wasn’t used to.

You got your first pro experience with the South Shore Monarchs (TBL) averaging 14.0ppg, 9.5rpg, 3.0apg, 1.5spg. How tough is it playing semi pro basketball in the states where everyone plays for their stats. What positives could you take from it?

It’s tough playing in situations like that because you know shots come few and far between so when you get your shot your have to make it and be efficient because you don’t know how long it will be before you will get another one. It just made me aware of efficiency, taking and making good shots

You began your college career at Montgomery College (JUCO): Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO has confirmed that JUCO was tough but one of best basketball experiences in their lives. How was it for you?

I love my Juco experience if I could I’d go back and do it all again, from my team to my coaches to the staff and fans and community. You gain like a family of brothers and supporters. Juco is for sure a grind but if you can withstand the grind and get through it the experience of it all is for sure worth it.

You won the 2018 JUCO title. What memories do you have of that run?

2018 was a great year in Juco for me I was the leading scorer in the country, was a first team all American, my team was ranked in the country everyone on board was successful the whole season was a great memory, our road trips to away games, making it to the final four of the national tournament the season as a whole was just a great one!

You finished at Angelo State University (NCAA2) averaging 17.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 79.1%. Was coming here one of the best decisions in your life and how did your game grow?

Coming to Angelo State was for sure one of the best decisions I could have make based on my circumstances. San Angelo is still like a second home to me, I have formed life long bonds and family coming to Angelo state. It made me more mature as a player being from the east coast and coming to Texas and playing a complete different style of basketball. I grew in all areas of my game both sides of the floor with the resources and staff we had at Angelo state.

You had a crazy 47 points against Lubbock Christian. How mad were you missing 45free throws which could of gotten you 50 points? What memories do you have of this game?

Lubbock Christian game was crazy double OT win in the conference tournament finishing with 47 was crazy. I wasn’t counting my points I didn’t know I had 47 until after the game was over but missing free throws period is never a good feeling I was mad even missing 1 I finished the night 20-25 from the free throw line but it would have been awesome to have scored 50 points. That game made me the schools single game scoring leader of all time. Another memory I have is when 3 of the 5 starters had fouled out of the game leaving me to play with young inexperienced role players & telling my guys I would guide us to a victory tonight no matter what then hitting a buzzer beater shot from the 3 off the glass to send the game into double overtime and coming away with the win

How did head coach Cinco Brown groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Boone made me tougher, taught me how to think the game better & polished my skills that allowed me to excel at the next level. He gave me the resources, tools & coaching I needed and told me get to work so it was all laid out for me I just had to be willing to put in the work to become the better player.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Paul Williams?

1 on 1 nobody on my team was beating me, 1 on 1 is what I do that’s my game but Paul was my roommate in college and also one of my best friends to this day when we did play one on ones I would win those games.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life on the court that reached the NBA?

Quentin Grimes when we played university of Houston. He is a great player, I think the toughest part was guarding someone of that skill level in Houston’s system guarding a nba level player running through screens of Houston’s 6’8-6’9 230+ pound plus bigs all night trying to guard Houston’s best player is tough. But I enjoyed the matchup for sure and was a good experience

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time

Best 5 teammates of all time Paul Williams, Ronald Bell, Jeremy Hayes, Andres Ibarugen, & Jamani Pierce

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal & Lebron James 4 most dominate players to ever touch the floor

Who is your GOAT and why?

Lebron is my Goat we’ve never seen someone on this reign for so long at such a high level Lebron is a player who can do everything on the court and guard 1-5 all time league leading scorer and the numbers don’t lie. Lebron is 39 now and still a top 10 player in the NBA full of young talent.

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

Yes I have seen the sequel and I liked it nothing like the classic but entertaining Eddie Murphy is a good actor and makes good movies but he definitely could have left it alone we didn’t NEED a second one but it was horrible.

Thanks Collin for the chat.

The Fraport Skyliners finished 2023 on a winning note winning a nail bitter in Speyer and now would meet them again in 2024 for the second time in a row after only a 2 week break in between. Frankfurt had been playing spirted basketball in the last weeks having won 3 of their last 4 games. They had showed a solid mix at both ends of the court while the 5-8 Speyer team had won 2 of their last 3 games, but lost 4 of their last 6 games. In the victory 2 weeks ago, German Philipp Hadenfeldt gave his farewell leading the team with 21 points. This time the medical student wasn´t in uniform, because he had taken a leave of absence and gone to Australia to take a semester abroad. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors now had to compensate that loss and had numerous young players that wanted to prove themselves. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors had an explosive first quarter, but then had to throw punches with a feisty Speyer team that just wouldn´t go away and had to decide the game in crunch-time to escape their living room with the hard fought 72-68 victory. Were the younger guys more motivated than usual because they had to step up? “We are always motivated. The young guys knew they would play more minutes and played with a high intensity. We hustled and played with heart. We did a really good job always being able to find solutions at both ends of the court when we needed them”, stated Fraport Skyliner Junior Drago Crnjac. Last season the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer won in Frankfurt with a buzzer beater and it looked like the game could come down to another buzzer beater, but this time they had no Quadre Lollis Jr. “The first quarter hurt us. We had to play catch up basketball after that. We played good defense for 30 minutes and got Rupp back on track. There were 1-2 plays at the end that decided the game for Frankfurt”, stressed Speyer guard DJ Woodmore.

Florian Dietrich at the FT line

The Fraport Skyliners Juniors came into the contest very depleted as they were missing Nolan Adekunle, Jordan Samare and Justin Onyejiaka who were playing in Vechta while Felix Hecker was injured and Philipp Hadenfeldt was in Australia. But that negativity didn´t faze Frankfurt as they stormed out on a rapid 6-2 lead as young German big man Florian Dietrich who played 44 Regionalliga games for Kronberg scored the teams first 6 points including 2 layin´s with 2 assists from Trevian Bell. Frankfurt wanted to establish their inside game and did. Spanish guard Carlos Hidalgo got Speyer going scoring 5 points and trailed Frankfurt 9-5 after Alvin Onyia hit a trey testing his 41%. Speyer had an offensive rhythm and shared the ball nicely getting baskets by Woodmore and Germans Dennis Diala and Pavle Pisic to lead 13-11. But the Fraport Skyliners Juniors didn´t shy away from showing all their scoring depth and exploded on a lethal 16-3 run to lead comfortably 27-16 after 10 minutes. In the run Frankfurt was led by Drago Crnjac who compares his game to Miami Heat Tyler Herro amassing 8 points with a three pointer and 2 lay in´s while Trevian Bell and 2017 JBBL finalist Calvin Schaum dropped three pointers. “I felt like we moved the ball really well. We also used the mismatches to our advantage and used our 1-1 qualities and executed well”, stressed Drago Crnjac. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 59% from the field and 67% from outside and had 11 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer shot 46% from the field and 40% from outside and had 4 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

Christoph Rupp at the FT line

The scoring machine of the Fraport Skyliners didn´t execute as well in the second quarter as the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer buckled down on defense and inserted a zone at times that Frankfurt couldn´t crack. Speyer held Frankfurt to 9 points, but Frankfurt still led by 3 points at the break. Speyer came out refreshed in the second frame going on a 7-0 run and trailed only 28-23. In the run the guests got lay in´s by big man David Aichle and Dj Woodmore and the American also added 3 free throws. Frankfurt lost their offensive rhythm and made bad decisions and were rushing their plays too much while Speyer played spirited team basketball. Frankfurt didn´t let Speyer get over the hump getting a key lay in by Bell and three pointer by young German Dusan Nikolic to lead 33-27. Dennis Dialla one of the defensive stoppers for Speyer head coach Catl Mbassa made key free throws, but that was matched by 3 free throws by Drago Crnjac to keep the 36-29 advantage. Spanish guard Carlos Hidalgo who played 146 EBA games in Spain ended the quarter with vital energy making an off balance shot and lay in on transition as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had the slim 36-33 lead. “Speyer went to a zone and they were the first team this season that was able to slow down out one play against the zone. We continued to play good defense which helped us keep the lead”, added Drago Crnjac. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 34% from the field and 28% from the three point line and had 25 rebounds and 10 turnovers while the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer shot 42% from the field and 29% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Calvin Schaum from outside

The third quarter remained a close battle, but despite some lead changes, the Fraport Skyliners had the slim 2 point lead after 30 minutes. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors had a horrible start getting stopped 6 times, but the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer couldn´t take advantage of it scoring only 3 baskets, but taking the 39-36 advantage. In the Speyer 6-0 run, Dj Woodmore, Dennis Dialla and David Aichele all scored in the paint area. Speyer played controlled team basketball and took advantage of the mismatches and on defense continued to Stifle Frankfurt with their zone defense. Frankfurt finally got their first field goal at the 6,09 minute mark as Dietrich scored which was followed by an Onyia three pointer for the 41-39 lead. The lead didn´t remain long as Rupp tied the score at 41-41 with a lay in. The game remained tight as Christoph Rupp was a real energizer being aggressive and scored again and made free throws for the 48-47 lead. “Rupp was big at both ends. He can really be our motor sometimes. If we can contain to sustain this, then I think we will be really good”, stated DJ Woodmore. But Frankfurt had a real hot Drago Crnjac on this day as he continued to carry Frankfurt. In the last minute, he made a big lay in and closed out the third quarter with a buzzer beater trey. “We defended well on 1-1 play and boxed out well. We hardly gave up any easy baskets”, commented Drago Crnjac. “We switched to zone and caught them off guard. We rode that momentum and got back into the game”, expressed DJ Woodmore. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 36% from the field and 27% from the parking lot and had 35 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer shot 42% from the field and 23% from the parking lot and had 28 rebounds and 12 turnovers.

Carlos Hidalgo jumper

The fourth quarter continued to be a real dog fight as the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer took the lead twice, but couldn´t hold it and then in crunch-time lost it and the game. German Simon Franke began the fourth quarter with a free throw which was followed by a Dragon Crnjac floater and 55-52 Frankfurt lead. But Speyer fought back and got back to back buckets from 212cm center David Aichele who made a one handed dunk coming from the base line and then a floater as Frankfurt trailed 56-55. Then came real brotherly love as Drago Crnjac was in trouble and somehow found his 16 year old brother Ivan in the corner and he dropped a trey for the 58-56 Frankfurt advantage. “It is really one of the best feelings being able to play with your brother at a high level. We support each other. It´s like a dream come true”, stated Drago Crnjac. DJ Woodmore tied the game at 58-58 with a 20 footer. Ivan Crnjac then made an off balance jumper and free throw and Rupp a trey to dead lock the game at 61-61. Both teams continued to exchange blows with the other always finding a an answer. Nikolic made 2 free throws and Aichele a lay in to tie the game 63-63. Speyer got the lead back with a Rupp runner only to see Drago Crnjac tie the game at 65-65 with a runner. Bell then made an off balance jumper for the 68-66 Frankfurt lead with 16,3 seconds to play. After a Hidalgo miss who had a good look, Drago Crnjac made 2 free throws for the 70-66 lead with 14,9 seconds to play. He would finish with a career best 29 points. “I had a feeling today that this could be my day after I saw who would play. I took advantage of it. I give a lot of credit to my teammates who found me. Even when I made mistakes, my teammates still had faith in me. Hard work really pays off”, said Drago Crnjac. Dialla made an off balance shot with 5 seconds to play and then Drago Crnjac iced the win with 2 free throws. “Bell shot helped us, but we also got to the free throw line. We also did the simple things at the end”, stated Drago Crnjac. “Both Crnjac brothers made big plays and shots. Hidalgo makes that shot at the end 9 out of 10 times. It was just one of those days where shots didn´t fall”, stressed DJ Woodmore. The Frapöort Skyliners Juniors were led by Drago Crnjac with 29 points and Trevian Bell added 12 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists while the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer were led by Carlos Hidalgo and Christoph Rupp with 14 points a piece. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 35% from the field and 26% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 15 turnovers while the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer shot 43% from the field and 23% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 14 turnovers.

DJ Woodmore (190-SG-1992, college: VWU) is a 31 year old 190cm point guard that is playing his ninth professional season and 7th with the Ahorn Basket Bis Baskets Speyer. Last season with Speyer he averaged 16.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 3.1apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 86.6% and the season before 15.5ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 81.0%. In the 2020-2021 season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz he averaged 13,3ppg, 6,0rpg, 4,3apf and 1,3spg. In 2019-2020 with the Morgenstern BIS Basket Speyer (Germany-ProB) he played 21 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 87.3%. In 2018-2019 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 71.6%. In his first two seasons with Speyer he averaged 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1% and 17.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 76.4%. he played at Virginia Wesleyan College (NCAA3): from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Pro B game against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors.

Thanks DJ for talking to germanhoops.com. I have been following your career since your rookie season in Germany. How many interviews do you think have we done up until now?

I would say 20 something.

It has been 27 interviews. Your playing your 9th pro season and 6th season in Speyer. In the Pro B you get a 2 week break? Were in Germany or in the states?

Yes! Crazy it’s been so long. I remember when the breaks used to be longer. But this Christmas I was in Germany. Went up north to Bremen.

How did you celebrate New Years Eve and do you go into the new year with New Year resolutions?

Didn’t do much this year, very relaxed. Just made dinner with my girlfriend and watched some movies all day. I usually like to set a few goals for myself each year. Helps me to stay focused and hold myself accountable to reach them.

It hasn´t been a great season so far for the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer. It has had 2 2 game winning streaks, but has lost 4 of the last 6 games. How would you summarize the season so far?

Still a work in progress. We have a very young team this season, but it feels like things are now falling into place. Will be a better second half of the year for sure.

The team scores points well, but also allows many points. What is still missing to say being able to allow 70-75 points per game?

I think we have to find a way to collectively rebound. Only having one true center leaves is vulnerable at times. But we’ll find ways to adjust.

It seems like the team has lost depth the last 2 seasons? How different is it to compensate that and stay in games for 40 minutes?

We just have to adjust our style of play a bit. But I think some of the younger players are ready to take the next step. Once we get them up to speed, I think you’ll see a change.

I believe as soon as German Christoph Rupp steps up his game, he could be the missing link to having an even more potent offensive attack. Is he still getting a feel for the new team?

Yes I agree, he’s experienced and a team first guy. Once we get him on the right track, I think we’ll see things become a lot easier offensively and defensively. He’s been doing a great job thus far with stats you don’t see in the stat sheet. But the shots are going to fall soon.

2 years ago you had Cardenas and Omojola. Would you love to have 2 guys of that quality back?

I would love to have those two back. But I think we have a good group now. Just in different ways. Chris is turning the page and Carlos has been solid all season. Dennis and Simon are defensive stoppers and the Pisic brothers can really shoot it.

You and Carlos Hidalgo are the 2 main scoring threats. Do you feel like teams will know how to slow you 2 down better in the second half of the season in the second time around?

I think we’ll be ready. I’m sure teams have been scouting us all season so far, but we’ve been able to find ways around it. Once some other guys get involved, it’ll help free us up a bit.

How much fun is it playing with Spanish guard Carlos Hidalgo. How do you guys compensate each other best and what do you appreciate most about his game?

Always nice to play with a pass first point guard. Makes my game easier so I don’t have to go 1 on 1 so much. I love his unselfishness and leadership. And he’s not afraid of the moment, offensively or defensively!!

Another player who has stepped up is German big David Aichele. How have you followed his development in the last years in Speyer?

He’s been improving for the last few season drastically. He blocks and alters shots so well, that it cobwebs up some of the mistakes the guards make on defense. It’s easy knowing you have a seven footer behind you. Offensively he’s still finding his form. But we need him to be a beast down there.

German David Pisic has made huge strides coming from the Regionalliga 2 to Pro B. What have you learned to appreciate most about his game?

The work ethic is almost robotic. He’s the last one to leave the gym everyday. He never gets too high or too low. But he shoots the ball with the best of them. If he’s open, I think it’s going in every time.

Your having another great season. You have improved your scoring average each season since 2021. Does your increase this season have to do with you having to have to score more?

Maybe a little bit. But I’ve been working on my game a lot in the off-season and during the year. I’m having to score a little more, but I try my best to remain efficient. Percentages are important for me. Let´s me know if I’m taking good shots or bad shots. But my teammates trust the ball being in my hands and I try to make the right play each time.

A big reason for your consistency has been staying healthy and putting in the work. Does the work out and practices still give you as much joy as say 5 years ago?

Absolutely. I look forward to playing everyday. I’d be lying if I said I still enjoy the running and conditioning part of it, but I’ll deal with it in order to stay ready to compete. I have been fortunate to be injury free. Hoping that stays the case. But each week, I’m trying to be better than the last.

Your continuing to shoot the ball very effectively from outside. You have proven that you’re a 3 level scorer. When do you feel did you get the 3 level scorer definition?

I’ve always been a threat from the outside and midrange. But over the last years I’ve been trying to work on my ball handling and one on one ability. I think since the end of last season I’ve noticed a change and it’s shown this year. Now just need to work on getting to the free throw line more.

In our last interview you said all you care about now is winning titles. How difficult is it motivating ones self each day when you know that the team material isn´t championship calibur on paper?

It can be frustrating at times but I believe we’re always good enough to compete against the best. Maybe that’s a bit of being overly confident, but I always play with the mindset. On paper is different than on-court. That’s what counts.

You told me in our last interview that you will keep playing until the wheels fall off. How well secured are your wheels in 2024?

Very!! body feels fine. Diet is improving and motivation is extremely high!

You swept the Fraport Skyliners Juniors last year for the first time in your career with Speyer. How good does it feel coming back this season to Frankfurt?

Completely different team this year. Felt like we were one or two plays away from winning last game against them. But we’ll be ready this time around.

Last season you won on a buzzer beater by Quadre Lollis Jr. What memories do you have of that game?

I remember coach had drawn the play for me to get the ball for the last shot, but I thought Q had the better match up. We changed it a bit in the timeout. And the inbound play worked perfectly. Q with his signature step back over the defense.

Frankfurt lost playmaker Philipp Hadenfeldt, but still have a deep team. What will be key to getting the win?

I didn’t know they lost him, He just gave us a great game two weeks ago. He really makes them go, along with the Tre and Alvin. I’m sure they’ll have some guys ready to step up. We just have to stay focused for 40 minutes. No matter who plays for them.

Carl Mbassa was always your coach in Speyer. What is something about him that not many know about?

Coach is still a beast, 45 years old and like 3% body fat is unreal. True story but he can still dunk. I ask him to show me every year and he still makes it look easy!!

Thanks DJ for the chat.

Everage Richardson (191-G-1985, college: Coastal) is a 38 year old guard that has played 15 years overseas in only 3 countries with Germany, Luxemburg and Iceland. In his time in Germany he helped the Bodfield Baskets move up from the Landesliga to the Regionalliga. He averaged 47,0 and 48,0ppg in 2 seasons there. He continued to demonstrate his scoring skills never averaging less than 25,0ppg in Luxemburg for Residence Walferdange. He has played in Iceland the last 6 years for 4 different clubs and continued to never average less than 18,0ppg. He began his basketball career at Washington Irving high school and played 2 years at Sullivan County Community College and then played 2 seasons at Coastal Carolina College playing 46 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Everage for talking to germanhoops.com.

Hey miles thanks for the interview. Basketball and life is treating me fine and I can´t complain I’m very grateful for the both of them.

Ricky Easterling deserved the nickname Mr Regionalliga. Did you ever play against him in Germany? It would have been exciting to see 2 guys like you battling in the Regionalliga had you remained in Germany.

Huge shoutout to Ricky he deserves that crown. Haven’t got the chance to play against him unfortunately would’ve love that battle while in Germany he just so happenend to be in the south division while I was in the north.

You only played in 3 countries in your career with Germany, Luxemburg and Iceland. You played longest in Iceland and have their citzenship. Has that become your second home and will you end your career there?

I actually got to play in the Dominican Republic as well for two summers earlier in my career during my Germany years. Iceland has become my second home I have my wife and 2 daughters there so it will more likely be where I end my career

You have been a scorer your whole professional career. When you see an ex teammate from Coastal Carolina College that may have lost track of you and you explain you averaged 48,0ppg in Germany what kind of responses do you usually get?

Great question if I speak or tell an ex teammate about those video game numbers they are telling me I know you can score but 48 that’s insane who are you playing against.

How vital was getting the green light in your first 2 seasons as a scorer where you dominated in Germany? How did that help you continue to be a lethal scorer in first divisions in Luxemburg and Iceland?

I wouldn’t necessarily say vital but it was great for my confidence and exposure for myself, I always knew my capabilities of who I was as a player so it carries over wherever I play and still does to this day.

You came to Iceland in 2018 and led the league in scoring 3 years in a row including 38,0ppg in your first season. I believe that was a record in Iceland. When you score so much in your career, is it harder to keep track of real big games when you always have such big games?

No it doesn’t even though it may seem so those bigger games always seem to standout a bit more to me those ones are special.

You played the last 2 seasons with Breidablik Kopavogur (Iceland-Subway League) and led the league in scoring and was also second in scoring. How do you explain your secret to being consistent despite getting older? Are you a gym rat like Brandon Bowmann?

Just never taken my opportunity to still play for granted as long I can lace them up. I´m going to give it my all. I do like to stay in the gym just to keep myself always ready and prepared. I am a gym rat not really taking to much time off and staying in the gym helps with me playing this long.

Iceland has been a stepping stone for Americans getting to higher leagues. Who was the best player that you witnessed in Iceland over the years?

The league has been improving every year since I’ve been there and I have seen a lot of good players and had good battles. Tough to choose from but I would have to say Robert Turner he was solid.

You have lived in an incredibly beautiful country. You must know the island inside out. What has been your coolest experience off the court?

I would have to say having family members or good friends come out to visit and showing them how beautiful the country is

You played 3 seasons with Residence Walferdange (Luxembourg-Total League) winning the second division in 2015. What do you remember being so special about this winning season?

Luxembourg was great all my years playing there. But that first year was special because it was a whole new group of guys including coach and we all just fit perfectly with each other from day one!

You continued to put great stats in Luexmburg. How do you feel did your game grow in these 3 years?

I would say my game grew in Luxembourg because I had to match the level of competition especially import wise there was always really good imports on every team so every night was a battle from the top team to the bottom didn’t matter.

In Luxemburg you also saw many talented Americans come through and make the next step. Who do you remember being the best American you battled against there?

This one is a tough one to answer as I mentioned before the imports were always good I can choose so many but I’m going to have to say Brad Reese.

Times were different in 2008. You had a solid NCAA senior year, but didn´t play your rookie season until 2009 in the Landesliga (7th div) in Germany. How does that happen for a guy coming out of the NCAA? Was it failed representation?

I would have to say so yes I initially passed up on a few opportunities prior to taking that offer. Also not knowing to much at all about how things were there at the time there wasn´t really social media like there is now mainly just word of mouth. I was just very eager to get back to playing the situation was good at the time so I told myself whatever chance I get I will make the best of it.

You played 4 years with the Bodfeld Baskets helping them move up 3 times all the way to the Regionalliga. The lower leagues aren´t glamourous what did you learn about life and yourself in this time period in your life?

It gave me more gratitude towards life and appreciation. A humbling experience at the least coming from a mid major where things were more glamorous. I learned so much about myself in life during this time period it was like a blessing in disguise besides the basketball part I was able to focus on me more than ever.

You averaged 48,0ppg and 47,0ppg in your first 2 pro seasons in Germany. It is difficult finding game box scores. Talk about some of your best games and highest scoring games?

Those two years there were a lot of games that stick out averaging that much it happend often. One of my favorites were when we played Hannover not sure if they still have a team but it was a big game we needed to move up I hit like 11 3s had like 50 something that game it should be somewhere on YouTube clips from that game.

You moved up 3 times with the Bodfeld Baskets. Which title was the sweetest?

The sweetest one was the move up from 2nd regio to the 1st regio more because of the group of guys we had about 5 guys from different countries figuring it out bonding together probably one of my favorite teams playing on professionally.

You played a season with the SC Itzehoe Eagles (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 28.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 5.2apg, 3.0spg, FGP: 67.8%, 3Pts: 37.4%, FT: 65.9%. What memories do you have of that season? Do you ever wonder how your career may have gone had you remained there and played for Pat Elzie?

Itzehoe was great and also special and unique place to play because it was my first place playing outside of Bodfeld so it was a new challenge and experience from what I was used to. Alot of good memories there. It was a great organization and they welcomed me very well we just fell short of moving up to that season. Which was the main reason I left because I wanted to play at a higher level

You played at Sullivan County Community College. Every guy I have talked to has said that JUCO was tough but one of best experiences ever. How was it for you?

Juco is tough It’s not for everybody. I got be strong to survive but I would say it helped me so much because it built my drive and hunger for the game that much more its survival of the fittest in Juco. It was an amazing experience for me got me ready for the next level for sure. There’s a lot of good players in juco who don’t make it out and get that next opportunity.

You then played 2 seasons at Coastal Carolina College (NCAA). What memories do you have of this time. You picked up your game in your senior year. How did your game grow there?

Every opportunity I had I learned something from and made the best of. My time at Coastal Carolina helped me a lot. I had some great memories and came across some amazing people down there. It was a bit of an adjustment coming from Juco but once I got used to everything I didn’t look back. Coastal helped to build my work ethic and discipline to such a high level which carries on in me still on and off the court.

You had many memorable games in the NCAA, but was the 90-86 win over UNC Wilmington where you scored 27 points your most memorable?

My senior year I really got to flourish. That Wilmington game definitely sticks out but there were many that season that were memorable for me it was real fun.

How did coaches Buzz Peterson and Cliff Ellis groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

When I look back they both were good for me as far as preparing me for turning professional. It was two different styles of playing one more structure and the other a more uptempo style of play. I learned a lot from both of them going towards the professional side and I was ready for whatever

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jack Leasure?

Jack Leasure is my guy and one of the hardest working and best shooters I’ve ever seen. He never gets tired. It would be a great battle but I’m going with myself on this one.

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

I’m going to have to go with Reggie Williams from VMI college. He played with several NBA teams and he was tough. There were many others but I played against him a lot being in the same conference so there were a lot of battles

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I’m going to have to answer this one based off of my teammates playing professionally. I had way too many amazing teammates to choose from. This is in no order Tim Dzelski Maddis Sumanov, Danero Thomas Jamael Lynch and Daniel Pierre

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Stephen Curry Michael Jordan Lebron James Tim Duncan Shaq

Who is your GOAT and why?

Michael Jordan, because he was just different from everyone.

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

Yes I did see it. That one they should have left along it was too long of a time gap between the first one.

Thanks Everage for the chat

The Fraport Skyliners and EPG Baskets Koblenz closed out 2023 with massive wins stopping their losing streaks of 1 game beating the favorite Kirchheim Knights and the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Koblenz did a superb job in their own living room getting back to stellar Koblenz defense while Frankfurt grinded out a tough win in OT in Bremerhaven with the help of crucial buckets by Canadian Aiden Warnholtz. Both wins were key as it gave both clubs must needed self confidence going into 2024. The EPG Baskets Koblenz met the Fraport Skyliners for the first time in their history and who would of thought that only 4 years ago the EPG Baskets Koblenz were competing in the Regionalliga and Frankfurt in the easyCredit BBL. Both teams came into the New Year pumped and the game turned out to be a defensive showcase and a tale of 2 halves. Koblenz controlled the first half while the Fraport Skyliners controlled the second half and increased their defense a few notches in the fourth quarter allowing only 5 points and winning another come from behind win on the road this time 69-54. “We played with a lot of grit in the second half. We matched their intensity and then increased it over theirs. We took over the game with our defense. We were very physical and rebounded the ball well”, stressed Fraport Skyliner guard Kevin McClain (190-G-1996, college: Belmont). The EPG Baskets played a great defensive first half, but offensively couldn´t find a rhythm in the second half and couldn´t buy a field goal in the last frame. “It was a very defensive game. Both teams defended well, but we switched better in the first half. They found better solutions in the second half and hit their shots better. We didn´t make good decisions and had too many turnovers that led to easy Frankfurt baskets”, stressed EPG Baskets Koblenz guard Marvin Heckel.

Maurice Pluskota at the FT line

The EPG Baskets Koblenz came out on fire taking the rapid 10-2 lead over the Fraport Skyliners. Koblenz came out aggressive on offense and displayed nice inside out play using the bigs and superb guard play of Heckel and Sloan who connected while top Pro A center Maurcie Pluskota scored twice. Each score made the CGM arena a bit louder as their defense was their staple totally stifling Frankfurt. Frankfurt´s drive was totally taken away and their contested three´s didn´t fall. Even if the Koblenz bigs controlled the paint area, Frankfurt did get an offense rebound and put back from 2018 NBBL champion Lorenz Brenneke. Koblenz could of led by 10 points, but they also had difficulty against the Frankfurt switch defense and let them back in as German Jacob Knauf hit a trey to trail only 14-9. Little used German Leo Saffer brought energy from the bench hitting 2 free throws, but ex Indiana State (NCAA) guard Cameron Henry was also aggressive nailing a left handed lay in at the buzzer as the Fraport Skyliners trailed only 16-11. “We had 10 points too little and Frankfurt 4 points too much. We defended great against the drive, but lost rhythm when Heckel was out”, stated EPG Baskets Koblenz CEO Thomas Klein. “We had problems figuring out their defensive schemes. We were thinking too much instead of just playing”, stressed Kevin McClain.

Cameron Henry turn around shot

The second quarter remained a defensive battle, but the EPG Baskets Koblenz kept the edge going into the break with a slim 5 point lead. Leon Friederici and Aidon Warnholtz traded three pointers to begin the second quarter. Then the game became wild in the next few minutes as no team could buy a bucket. Frankfurt did a good job securing offensive rebounds as Knauf made a put back as Koblenz led only 19-17. “The offensive rebounds kept Frankfurt in the game at that point”, stressed Thomas Klein. But sometimes things go so fast as the EPG Baskets Koblenz exploded on a 9-0 run as 2 crazy deep three´s by Friederici and Sloan blew open the game as Koblenz led 28-17. The up and down phases of Koblenz appeared again something that has accompanied them all season long. As quickly as they could celebrate their little run, Frankfurt punched back with a swift 7-1 run to trail only 29-24 at half-time. In the run the guests got vital support from ex Alba Berlin guard Nolan Adekunle with a runner off the glass and a clutch three pointer from Minnesota native Booker Coplin. “We lost our rhythm. We played great defense, but 29 points was too little for us. If the three´s of Frankfurt began to fall, then the score would have looked different”, added Thomas Klein. “We played good defense. Eventually the offense will come. Our aggressive defense led to good offense”, commented Kevin McClain.

Marvin Heckel from outside

The third quarter showed the best combined offense of both teams as 43 points were scored, but at the end of 30 minutes, the Fraport Skyliners still couldn´t get over the hump as Koblenz led 49-47. The Fraport Skyliners were better prepared at the start cruising out on a 12-4 run to get the lead at 36-34. It was probably the best 3 minutes of offense by Frankfurt as there was a real flow and better decisions made and guys picking their spots better. Frankfurt got key three´s by Warnholtz and Henry and also mixed it up inside getting a lay in and thunderous dunk by Brenneke. Frankfurt got the needed run to turn the game around as their aggressive defense finally paid dividends as their offense execution finally clicked. Both teams then traded leads with Sloan and Henry baskets, but basketball wouldn´t be basketball without another run as Koblenz was prepared and served up the counter punch with a 10-2 run to grab the more comfortable 47-40 advantage. In the run the EPG Baskets Koblenz got lay in´s by American Robert Hall and Moses Poelking while Rytis Pipiras hit a trey. Koblenz increased their physicality and their guard play led the charge while good defense led to transition play. But Koblenz couldn´t hold the momentum as Frankfurt closed out the third quarter with a swift 6-2 run with baskets from David Muenkat, Warnholtz free throws and a buzzer beating lay in by McClain. “We did a good job not thinking so much anymore. We made the right passes and shots”, stated Kevin McClain. “We didn´t play our game. We got away from our principles. Frankfurt pressured us better and we couldn´t find to our game”, expressed Marvin Heckel.

David Muenkat at the FT line
It was a 2 point game going into the fourth quarter and the game was up for grabs. But instead of the contest being a back and forth tug of war, the EPG Baskets Surprisingly totally fell apart in their own living room amassing only 5 points and no field goal. The Fraport Skyliners began with a lethal 7-3 run to lead 54-52 and would never look back. Kevin McClain took matters into his own hands scoring 7 unanswered points showing his brutal 1-1 qualities. “I´m still finding my rhythm. If I don´t think too much eventually all will click. I was able to get to my spots and not think too much”, added Kevin McClain. “McClain did a good job using his 1-1 qualities against the switch. He was tough to control. He is a good player”, stated Marvin Heckel. Everything clicked for Frankfurt as their aggressive defense continued to wreck havoc and on offense Frankfurt executed the way they know how. A Knauf three, Cooplin fade away jumper and Muenkat basket gave Frankfurt the 61-52 lead. Frankfurt did a great job reading the Koblenz offense and got steal after steal. Koblenz got over their 5th team foul which led to Muenkat, Henry and Coplin free throws and the undisputable 66-52 lead. McClain added a trey for good measure and Poelking free throws to end the game. “We took our defense more personal and played even more aggressive”, added Kevin McClain. “We fell apart. It was tough moving the ball inside on the switch defense. When you can´t do that then it´s tough to get into a flow”, stressed Marvin Heckel. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Kevin McClain and Jacob Knauf with 13 points a piece while the EPG Baskets Koblenz were led by David Sloan with 14 points and 12 points from Leon Friederici. The Fraport Skyliners shot 39% from the field and 30% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 15 turnovers while the EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 31% from the field and 21% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 27 turnovers.

pic credit: San Diego State University

The First Sign of a player that has the potential to go his route overseas is knowing that he isn´t satisfied. That will to keep grinding and to reach the highest level is something that easyCredit BBL rookie Matt Bradley (193-G-1999, college: SDSU) is striving for. He has already competed against very many talented and high profile players in his young career before coming to Rostock, but now is undergoing a reality check there and paying his dues as he isn´t the number one scoring option and is playing a lot less minutes compared to what he saw in the NCAA. But that’s ok for him. What this guy has experienced in the last years has been incredible. It started in high school where he had a 72 point game to reaching the NCAA final last season with San Diego State University and also hitting a game winner a few years back with California against one of the best defenders in the NBA. Matt Bradley has unending talent and has proven in the last years that this guy could go places overseas with his game. “I grew up near where the Ball brothers are from. LaMello scored 92 points in a game and LiAngelo had scored 72 points once. I remember texting a friend a week before the game where I scored 72 points that I would break the record. I didn´t break the record, but scored as many as he did. I remember being taken out 3 minutes before the end with us up 20 points. I remember with my game winner against Washington that they had some future NBA guys on the team with Isaiah Stewart and Jaden McDaniels. I didn´t have a high scoring game, but hit many clutch shots. I will never forget making the winner over Jaden McDaniels. That will always give me bragging rights. It was a fun night”, remembered Matt Bradley. As a rookie he is averaging only 8,1ppg and is playing 10 minutes less than in the NCAA. Despite having this adversary, the experience will only fuel him for the rest of the season and beyond. “It has been humbling in Rostock. In college I scored a lot and now I´m not. But coach Held has been great. He continues to push me to keep working and tells me I´m doing great. We have many great players and I just try to do my best and help my team win in any way I can. I´m not looking at now, but at the big picture down the road. I´m not worried about my numbers now. I feel like I´m starting to find my groove”, warned Matt Bradley. Matt Bradley has competed and been successful against the Ball´s and McDaniel´s but isn´t satisfied and is looking at the big picture overseas.

Matt Bradley who names current Boston Celtic Payton Prichard as his toughest opponent in the NCAA was born on August 19th, 1999 in San Bernardino, California. He started his high school career at Rancho Cucamonga High School in Rancho Cucamonga, California, but left after his freshman season where he broke his foot. He then attended San Bernardino high school. His career there really began to take off as he posted 3 straight 40 point games in his junior season and soon after that 72 point masterpiece against Rubidoux. He averaged 31/11/5/4 stats. He then played his senior year in Utah at Wasatch academy and helped his team achieve a 24-2 record and the team was ranked nationally at 13. He finished his high school career being ranked 53rd by Rivals, the 78th overall player nationally and 8th in California by 247Sports. He then decided to play at the University of California from 2018-2021 where he was able to improve his scoring average each season. He averaged 10.9ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 37.3%, 3PT: 47.2%, FT: 79.3% as a freshman and his game really took off in his last 2 seasons as he averaged 17.3ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 85.7% and 18.0ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 81.2%. “Those last 2 years were key. I was the Derrick Alston of the team. The offense went through me. My team relied on me to score. My second season I lost most of my teammates and a new coach came. I became the leader of the team. I had to step up. I had put in a lot of work the previous summer and my results showed that hard work could pan out”, warned Matt Bradley. In his 3 years there he scored in double figures in 70 games and some memorable scoring games were 28 points and 26 points in wins over Colorado, 27 points against Pepperdine, and 26 points against WSU. He twice was named to the All-Pac-12 Second Team.

The flashy guard who lists Nathan Mensah, Melvin Walker, Jaeden Leede, Paris Austin and current teammate Chris Carter as his 5 best teammates of all-time then finished at San Diego State University where he added on 2 more years averaging 17.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 79.3% and 12.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 81.1%. In his first season he had Nevada´s number being instrumental in 2 nail bitter wins combined by only 3 points and he led his team with 26 and 24 points. “My favorite win was when we won at their place. It is always hard to win on the road. It was a very hostile environment and the whole crowd was booing. We were a really good defensive team that season and really stepped up”, remembered Matt Bradley. His first season he scored in double figures in 25 of 31 games and had memorable scoring games in wins with 30 points against Wyoming and 28 points against SJSU. His team saved their best for last reaching the NCAA final in 2023 losing to UConn. It was a real magical season and going into March Madness he wouldn´t have thought they would go so far. “We were struggling with being consistent. We had good depth and any one could be top scorer on any given night. You never knew what you would get from us. After we beat Charleston we came together and said we would give all we had and not worry about personal stats. We just outhustled teams and bullied them. After the first win we just rolled. We just couldn´t get job done against UConn. They were a good team, but I felt that we could of won if we had done what we could do, but we made history reaching final”, remembered Matt Bradley. SDSU would go on to defeat Furman, Alabama, and Creighton to reach the Final 4. Winning 2 more games was simply too much. The FAU buzzer beater in the semi-final seemed like their final. “Butler is clutch. He had hit a tough game winner earlier in year. I knew on that last shot it was win or go home. That last shot felt like everything was in slow motion. I had so many emotions inside me as he let it go. I was just happy it went it. It was hard to process everything after that win. We were drained and in between shell shocked. We just couldn´t clear our minds for the final. I wish we could of locked in in the final, but I was so proud of our run”, stressed Matt Bradley. In his last season he scored in double figures in 25 of 38 games including 27 points in a win against Air Force and 21 points against FAU at March Madness. He understands that his success was guided perfectly by head coach Brian Dutcher. “He is a player´s coach that doesn´t cater to what you need but works with you and cares for you. He is genuine and the most important thing that I learned form him was how to build relationships with teammates and coaches. When the relationship works, then everything looks like fake work, but all is fun. Now as a pro, I see that it´s not just about getting paid, but about relationships”, warned Matt Bradley who remembers beating Lamont Butler in 1-1 games in practice. In his 2 years at SDSU he picked up All-MWC First Team 2022, 23, MWC All-Tournament Team -2022, 23
MWC Regular Season Champion -2023, MWC Tournament Winner -2023, All-MWC All-Tournament MVP -2023 and NABC Division I All-District 17 First Team -2023.

The California native who lists Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Kareem Abdul Jabbar on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is playing his rookie season in Germany with easyCredit BBL team Rostock Seawolves. But his way to Europe wasn´t a cake walk. Sometimes things happen so quickly and you have to react at a wink and just jump for the opportunity. “After reaching the NCAA final, the world was big for me. I didn´t really know what I would do on or off the court. Then came the offer from Rostock to come in for the injured Jordan Roland. At the time, that is what was best for me. I came in on the fly. I came to Rostock and was ready to work”, said Matt Bradley. The Rostock Seawolves is one of those teams that came up from the fourth division to the top in less than 10 years and continue to annoy teams in the BBL. They are a feisty team that have aspirations to reach the playoffs and are fueled by their energetic great fans. “Our fans are amazing. I feel like we have had the edge in close games because of them. When they slap the paper, it feels like a drum. They are always nice where ever you see them. We have a lot of potential. Despite getting a tough loss in Vechta, I feel like we are starting to hit our stride now. I feel like we have gotten a lot better since the cup loss to Vechta and the last loss there. We have shown growth and are coming together now. In the BBL, I feel like every team is beatable. We are really focusing on winning now”, warned Matt Bradley. He has so many talented teammates especially with captain Chris Carter and Wes Clark who have been very instrumental in his growth in his first months overseas. “I arrived here on my birthday and Chris took me under his wing right away. He told me what to expect and also helped me on a personal level and has shown me what it means to be a professional. He has helped me to make plays and not just run up and down the court. He is a good leader and friend. Wes is really experienced and has helped me to force things less and has helped me break down the game when things are going a bit too fast”, added Matt Bradley. The American is also playing for the first time for a European coach with Christian Held and has appreciated the working relationship. “Coach is younger than my coaches in college. He is knowledgeable and very competitive. He is different than others coaches in that he wants all to come together. He wants everything to be done so you can win”, warned Matt Bradley.

The American who has a rather unexpecting GOAT with Demarcus Cousins compares his game as a mix between Desmond Bane and Marcus Smart and is a player that has proven that he can score and shoot the ball at a high clip, but his game offers so much more. “I feel like I´m an underrated passer. I feel like I can make the right reads and make the type of passes that people won´t expect. But my biggest strength is my attribute to winning”, expressed Matt Bradley. He is also on his way to becoming a 2 way player as he is a very ambitious defender. “I´m a pretty hard nosed defender. SDSU was a program that really stressed defense. My time there helped me with physicality, rotations and 1-1 defense. At the moment I´m the type of defender that is there to disrupt the ball handler. I want to become a more versatile defender and be able to defend 1-4”, commented Matt Bradley. Currently this season in the BBL he is averaging 8,1ppg, 2,5rpg and 1,3apg while shooting 36% from outside in 16 minutes. He really found his groove in the Fiba Europe Cup action averaging 10,5ppg, 3,2rpg and 1,3spg while shooting a hot 50% from the parking lot. He scored in double figures in 5 of 6 games. Being able to play this competition was instrumental in his early development as a player overseas. “I liked playing Fiba Europe Cup. I was able to play against different styles. Since we played twice a week, guys were tired and it was my time to step up and take my game to a new level. I showed I was more of a threat at both ends. Now my role is still the same in the BBL, but I feel like it is getting bigger”, stated Matt Bradley. It is still a long season ahead and career and he has very clear goals how he will get to the highest level. “Number 1 on my list is getting my stamina to be better. I have to eat healthy and do extra cardio work. Second is I want to keep working on my playmaking on the pick and roll and being able to make plays for all. And three working on becoming a better scorer. I want to be a 3 level scorer”, warned Matt Bradley. It will be interesting to see how the Rostock Seawolves fare in the second half of the season and if Matt Bradley can continue to elevate his game. He made history in the NCAA and who knows may add some new history this season when he helps the Seawolves reach their first playoffs in the easyCredit BBL. He can also begin making history next weekend with a win against FC Bayern Munich. He definitely has proven in the NCAA that he has that special winning touch.