It seems like it was ages ago when the BCM witnessed Rasheed Moore there wearing a Panthers jersey as it was in the 2018-2019 season. Since then he made the jump to the Pro A and easyCredit BBL and played in Romania while the Panthers now sporting the name Black Forest on the uniform played 4 years in the Pro A and now are back in the Pro B. It has been a tough season as they came to Frankfurt with a 2-7 record and were playing like a team that is ready to head back to the Regionalliga a place they last played in in the 17-18 season. They came back to Frankfurt to play the Fraport Skyliners Juniors who have had an up and down season having a 4-5 season. The Black Forest Panthers have had massive problems on the defensive end allowing 86 points on average while Frankfurt haven´t played bad, but lost 2 nail bitters to Rhondorf and Orange Academy which has disallowed them from being above 500. On a late autumn day the Black Forest Panthers came to Frankfurt without Rasheed Moore, but had other talented players and were hoping to stop their 3 game losing streak, but couldn´t get over the hump in crunch-time despite a massive 3 point rainfall by young 19 year old Icelandic guard August Kjartansson losing 83-73. The Panthers definately played better than against Fellbach, but the only thing that counts now are wins to escape the Pro B south cellar. „We fought hard and played pretty good defense, but it just wasn´t enough. They had too many good individual players. We have to find a better rhythm in the game to be able to score more. We have a good group of guys, but have to figure out some things“, stressed Black Forest Panther guard Agust Kjartansson. The Fraport Skyliners moved to 5-5 and came alive on the boards and found their 3 point touch in the second half. „We had ups and downs today, but had important stops to keep our lead. We played more as a team and read their defense well and executed well“, stressed Fraport Skyliner Junior JJordan Samare (202-PF-2002).

Trevian Bell at the FT line

In the first quarter, a low scoring game was established as both teams had great difficulty hitting shots. Trevion Bell made the first field goal of the game with a trey, but Frankfurt couldn´t make much ground despite getting 5 stops. The Black Forest Panthers found some daylight going on a 9-0 run to lead 9-3. They got some key three´s from young Germans Thomas Gaus and Jegor Cymbal and a turnaround shot by ex Wedel center Christian Okolie. The guests upped their intensity while Frankfurt made bad offensive decisions, but also missed easy lay ups. Frankfurt had problems establishing an offensive rhythm and despite getting some buckets from JJordan Samare and Felix Hecker, there wasn´t much more they could produce. The Panthers got key support from the bench from Virginia rookie Luke Lawson who made a lay in and ex FC Bayern Munich German Emmanuel Womala made an offensive rebound and put back for the 14-8 Panthers lead after 10 minutes. „You noticed that the opponent scouted Frankfurt well and simply worked harder than Frankfurt. Frankfurt worked hard for good shots, but they just didn´t fall“, commented ex Indiana State guard Cameron Henry. The Black Forest Panthers shot 24% from the field and 25% from outside and had 17 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Fraport Skylioners Juniors shot 19% from the field and 14% from outside and had 14 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

Agust Kjartansson from outside

The lack of scoring continued somehwhat in the second quarter, but the Fraport Skyliners Juniors heightened their offense by scoring 22 points and led 30-28 at the break. Frankfurt got on the board first with a three pointer by JJordan Samare to trail 14-11, but like in the first quarter couldn´t take advantage of 4 stops against the opponent. Thomas Gaus finally broke the scoring slump with a three pointer to lead 17-11 at the 7,41 minute mark. Samare and Kjartansson then traded lay ins as Frankfurt still trailed 19-13. But when you have such a talented team that Frankfurt has, it is only a matter of time before the offense starts to roll and it finally did as they went on a 11-2 run to lead24-21. Instruemental in the run wasn´t only JJordan Samare´s 2 clutch three´s, but also his relentless work on the boards as he led his team to 20 rebounds in the quarter while he hauled down 5 rebounds. In the run, the club also drew intelligent fouls as captain Alvin Onyia hit 3 and German Philipp Hadenfeldt also scored. Schwenningen did get the lead back with the help of a Kjartansson three pointer and Cymbal free throws 26-25, but Frankfurt stole the lead right back with a Onyia runner and Dusan Nikolic lay in 30-26. Luke Lawson plastered a hard one handed dunk to close out the second quarter which had some people jumping from their seats. „The Skyliners continued to get good shots and this time they went in. Frankfurt was playing with more energy and forced more turnovers. Frankfurt crashed the boards well led by Samare. He was the main guy doing the dirty work“, expressed Cameron Henry. The Fraport Skyliners shot 24% from the field and 20% from the three point line and had 34 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Black Forest Panthers shot 26% from the field and 27% from outside and had 26 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

Alvin Oniya with the runner

The third quarter witnessed 3 runs as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had 2 of them and led comfortably by 12 points after 30 minutes. Kjartansson began the third quarter with a three pointer to dead lock the game at 30-30, but then came the big moment of 2018 JBBL winner Nolan Adekunle who nailed 3 consecutive three´s for the 39-32 Frankfurt advantage. The guests had problems matching the intensity and physicality of Frankfurt and couldn´t buy a basket while Frankfurt dominated the boards. But basketball is always a game of runs and Schwenningen struck back with a swift 7-0 run to tie the game 39-39. Frankfurt had previously done a good job denying the entry inside, but in the run, the guests finally got easy baskets as their bigs got touches and executed. Ex Fraport Skyliner Daniel Mayer, Luke Lawson and Okolie all scored in the run. But Frankfurt didn´t let that rapid burst of energy by the guests stop their quest to win as they closed out the third quarter with a brutal 13-1 run to lead 52-40. In the run, Frankfurt got solid support from Samare as he contributed 6 points. But other players also stepped up as Bell made a runner, Hadenfeldt a lay in and Oniya free throws. „We didn´t defend well enough against Kjartansson. But we did wortk hard on the offensive glass. We also dominated the 50/50 balls. We practice that a lot“, commented JJordan Samare. „We have the lost the third quarter in the last 3 games. We tried to mix it up with zone and they hit tough shots. They hurt us with their individual class that they have“, added Agust Kjartansson. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 27% from the field and 25% from the parking lot and had 47 rebounds and 8 turnovers while the Black Forest Panthers shot 27% from the field and 21% from the parking lot and had 38 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

Daniel Mayer at the FT line

The Black Forest Panthers made a run in the fourth quarter as Agust Kjartansson went crazy hitting from everywhere, but had his team made a few more free throws during the game, then possibly they might have escaped with a win. A Oniya three pointer and Samare free throw gave Frankfurt it´s biggest lead of the game at 56-40. But the guests still had energy and Kjartansson in their pocket. Possibly Kjartansson had seen his 6 turnovers on the stat sheet after 3 quarters which gave him that extra spark to let it rain three´s? The Panthers went on a 9-3 run to trail only 59-49 as Kjartansson scored 2 three´s and Gaus also added a trey. Adekunle stopped the run with a three pointer as Frankfurt led 62-49, but the Panthers were sparked by Kjartansson as he led his team on a 11-2 run to trail only 64-60. In the run, Kjartansson nailed 2 three´s and a lay in while Gaus connected again from downtown. After a Florian Dietrich free throw, Mayer made a lay in as Frankfurt only led 65-62. Kjartansson continued to hit 2 more three´s, but Frankfurt always had an answer as Samare made a lay in and Oniya free throws as Frankfurt had the upperhand 75-69. After a Kjartansson miss, Trevian Bell made a lay in for the 77-69 advantage. Kjartansson made his eighth three pointer of the game, but Frankfurt still led 77-72. The 19 year old from Iceland finished with 30 points. „I began the season off bad shooting the three, but I had more luck in the last games. I know in my heart that I can shoot. I got more confidence in the last games. When I see the rim, I´m shooting the ball“, warned Agust Kjartansson. But Frankfurt had the momentum and closed out the game with a 6-1 run as they finished the game with 6 free throws from Samare, Bell and Nikolic. „We stuck together. Even if Kjartansson made many shots, we were able to continue to execute well on offense. Key was we got stops and got to the free throw line“, stated JJordan Samare. „We had to many turnovers and missed free throws. We couldn´t make free throws for our lives. We struggled with the offensive rebounds. We worked hard, but things just bounced their way“, said Agust Kjartansson. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors wered led by JJordan Samare with 24 points and 11 rebounds. Nolan Adekunle added 15 points, Alkvin Onyia 14 points and Philipp Hadenfeldt 13 points while the Black Forest Panthers were led by Agust Kjartansson with 30 points while Thomas Gaus added 13 points. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 30% from the field and 29% from outside and had 55 rebounds and 12 turnovers while the Black Forest Panthers shot 36% from the field and 38% from outside and had 48 rebounds and 16 turnovers.

Will Chavis (181-G-1981, college: Texas Tech) is a former professional player currently coaching at Drexel University (NCAA). He celebrated a 11year professional career overseas that took him to France, Iceland, Italy, Greece, Czech republic, Holland, Cyprus and Germany where he enjoyed his longest stay at 7 years. In Germany he helped MBC move up to the first division in 2009 and Nurnberg to the Pro A in 2011 and finished out his career in Nurnberg where he was for 5 years. He played a total of 296 professional games. He began his basketball career at George Washington Carver High School and then played a season at UNH (NCAA) and Panola (Texas) Junior college. He then played 2 seasons and 64 NCAA games at Texas Tech from 2001-2003 playing under the legendary Bob Knight . He shared his memories of Knight to germanhoops.com.

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

Hey Miles, I can’t complain. I am well and I am in Philly my hometown coaching at Drexel University.

You have been retired from the pro game for almost 10 years. What do you miss most from your playing days?

The thing I miss most are the friendships and relationships that were forged from playing with and against other players.

You went into coaching after you were a player. Talk a little about your career after your playing days?

Yeah, went into coaching first in Nurnberg and then in high school in the US and now in college. I must say it has been a blessing to say the least. To be able to teach the game and pass along the knowledge I have attained over the years while helping younger players strive towards reaching their full potential is very rewarding.

Your ex coach Will Chavis recently passed away at age 83. Where were you when you heard the news?

Yes, very sad but he wasn’t doing very well for a long while. I was in practice when I heard the news and my heart dropped.

You and Will Chavis both came at the same time in 2001 to Texas Tech. He had come from winning 3 NCAA titles at Indiana. How do you remember that first meeting with him? Was it a 1-1 meeting or did he greet the whole team when he arrived?

We met at the airport when he picked me up for my visit. He put his arm around me as we walked out of the airport terminal in Lubbock and he said, “how was the flight”

How do you remember his demeanor coming in? Was he already totally locked in or did you sense he felt pressure coming into a new situation after so much success at Indiana?

Looking back on it I can see where he felt a little pressure but if you know anything about coach Knight he didn’t fear much because he was so great at preparing himself and others for whatever is to come, but that situation did come with a little bit of pressure from outside. I think he did a great job.

In your time there you reached the NIT Final 4. How do you remember that time? What was special about that team?

It was a great time what I remember was coach asking us did we want to play in the NIT because we won 22 games and didn’t make the tournament that year. He only wanted to play if we were going to commit for playing for a championship. We fell short but it was a great experience.

How was he as a person. The public knows him as a loud mouth that threw chairs, but you knew him very well. Was he a guy where you could knock on the door and come to him with a problem off the court? Could he turn off his basketball brain for a few hours?

Yeah he could be very intimidating but he was great at making a tough situation lighter. He had a unique ability to get the most out of people and get them to believe in themselves in the most difficult situations. Some people like it and some don’t but I guarantee when you were around him and got a chance to do life with him you couldn’t help but learn.

You told me this in an interview in 2011. “He always tried to teach us about life situations. If something wasn’t going right in life that you still needed to go out and perform”. Do you remember a story from him that stuck with you?

I remember a lot of stories but one that sticks out is when I graduated and came back to see him he was so nice. First thing he said was “Chavis what’s up and how can I help you”

You once told me the story of Nick Valdez and the ball in corner and how he hated that and kicked the ball up 7 rows. Please tell another story about how Will Chavis was as a guy?

One of the last conversations I had with him he told me he would take me fly fishing, I never got the opportunity. I wish I had because in the time that he said that and now my life has changed so much. It would have been great to do that with him and build a better relationship after playing for him.

What was your personal favorite 1-1 moment with coach Knight?

He once told me he recruited me because he saw something in me that he saw in so many of the leaders of his teams in the past. He told me that I had the heart of a lion but I have to speak up and fight when I feel I’m right no matter what. When you’re right always argue! I never forgot that.

Did you have contact to him after you finished in 2003? When he looks down from heaven and sees you, how do you think he will remember you best?

Yeah as I said I went back to work camp, I hope he remembers me as a hard worker and that he knows he had a huge impact on my life. It’s always good as a mentor/ coach/ teacher to feel appreciated and I would think that he would be no different. I really appreciate you coach!! Thanks for everything!!! Rest well!

Where does Will Chavis go down in the history of the greatest college basketball coaches of all-time?

In my eyes the greatest!!! There will never be anyone else like him.

Thanks Will for the chat.

Robert Zinn (197-PG-1995) is a 28 year old 197cm guard that has the German/Swiss citizenship and is currently playing his sixth season in Switzerland and second with the Lions de Geneve (Switzerland-SBL) averaging 9,7ppg, 4,4rpg and 6,8apg. He began his career in Germany for the MHP Riesen organization. He also played for teams in Germany like Kirchheim, Baunach, Breitengussbach, MBC, Sixers Sandersdorf, Herzogenaurach, Nurnberg and Tuebingen. He played parts of 4 BBL seasons a massing a total of 64 games. In Switzerland he also has played with BC Boncourt, Fribourg and Lugano and won 7 titles. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Robert Zinn for talking to germanhoops.com. You left Germany in 2018 and just finished your 5th season in Switzerland and have won 7 titles in that span. Was that the best decision in your basketball life?

Yes to go to Switzerland and play here was definitely the best decision. I made a lot of good memories and met great people in the years since I am here. I can say that Switzerland is my new home.

You played 4 seasons in the BBL and 64 games. Did you ever get a fair chance?

It is a difficult question for a young German guard guard to answer. It is always difficult to get playing time. Silvano Poropat gave me for sure a fair chance and a lot of confidence. I was just really young and physically not ready to compete on this level.

Do you feel like in Germany especially in the BBL, it is very difficult for young Germans to get a fair chance? Of course it can be done, but still it´s difficult.

Yes I still think it is difficult for young Germans and it might be better to go to the pro A where the value for a German player is higher and the game is less physical. So they have more time to develop.

Maybe your game wasn´t as developed back with MBC and Tuebingen. Do you feel like you were just there at the wrong time? I´m sure you would get more of a chance in the BBL now?

I think especially at my position teams prefer American point guards and if they sign a German point guard most of the time they are fast and really physical. This is not really my style of play.

Do you think like you could ever return to Germany or are you having too much fun winning in Switzerland?

I would have liked to go back to Germany but there was not the right situation for me on the market. But indeed it is really fun to play in Switzerland and to have a lot of responsibility and to take important descisions on the court.

Last season with the Lugano Tigers (Switzerland-SBL) you made a big jump averaging 15.9ppg, 5.9rpg, Assists-1 (11.0apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 29.9%, FT: 76.7%. Was this your best season as a professional skill wise?

Yes I think it was my best season. I had a lot of freedom and my teammates trusted me a lot to create for everyone.

You had 2 triple doubles. How did that feel? That is so rare.

Yes this was really special and in both games we won so I am really happy I could contribute something to the win.

You had never averaged more than 4 assists in a season and then you average 11. What changed in your playmaking?

I think I learned so much under my coach in Fribourg Petar Aleksic to read and control the game. I was way calmer this year when I played pick and roll and so I found a lot of good solutions.

Do you feel like you could do it again this season with the Lions de Geneve (Switzerland-SBL)

Geneva will be a different situation then Lugano. The most important thing is that we win a title and then I will see how I personally I can contribute but I think coach Dragan knows how he can use me.

You won 5 titles with Fribourg Olympic (SBL). Was there a title that was most special to you?

Yes for me the SBL cup was really special. We were down 10 2 minutes to go and still one. This was definitely the craziest game I played.

Your last season in Germany was with the Walter Tigers Tuebingen (BBL) where you averaged 2.8ppg, 1.1rpg, 1.5apg. What memories do you have being part of a sinking ship?

It was a frustrating season. Especially for me where Tübingen is my hometown and my favorite city in Germany. We couldn’t figure out how to win games. I am happy that they are back in BBL now.

Your best game that season was scoring 16 points in a loss against FC Bayern Munich. Despite the loss is that a game your proud of?

Yes to play against Bayern is always special. They had amazing players so this was a good experience in the very difficult season.

You were teammates with Jared Jordan. Did some of his fancy passes rub off on you?

Yes for sure Jared Jordan was a great leader and the way he was reading the game, he was always ahead and I give hima lot of respect for that. I think I am a similar player type.

You played a season with the Nuernberg Falcons BC (ProA) averaging 4.0ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.6apg. What memories do you have of this season? I can imagine you were expecting to play more of a role coming from the BBL?

Yes I had an American point guard Dianne Watkins in front of me so I didn’t have a big role.

You played with MBC from 2014-2016. What memories do you have from that time? I can imagine that it was very demanding playing for Predrag Krunic?

MBC was a great time. The people there really appreciate you if you play for the club. I liked the atmosphere and met great people. We had great team chemistry in MBC and Pedrag Krunic is a fantastic coach. He always brought the same energy everyday to practice.

You had many veterans as teammates. What was it like being teammates with veteran Marcus Hatten? I can imagine you were able to learn a lot from his game?

Marcus was one of the most hardworking teammates I had. He was by far the oldest but always in the weight room. Amazing guy and great leader.

You began your career in the Ludwigsburg organization. Do you ever wonder how your career may have gone then had you had John Patrick earlier on?

I don´t think I don’t have the profile for what John Patrick is looking for so I think it would have been difficult for me to get minutes if I would have stayed in Ludwigsburg

You scored your first 2 BBL points in a 20 point loss to Bamberg playing against legends like Casey Jacobsen and Bostjan Nachbar. What memories do you have of that game?

Yes I appreciated that John Patrick threw me in there with 17. it was an amazing experience playing in Bamberg in front of 6000.

Who is the toughest player you played against in the easyCredit BBL?

The toughest player was the point guard from Alba Berlin back then Cliff Hammonds. Every time when we played against Alba he played full court pressure. I felt like I couldn´t move. His defense was on another level.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

1.Jonathan Kazadi 2. Diante Watkins 3.Christian Standhardinger 4.Johannes Thiemann 5. Arnauld Cotture

Who is your GOAT and why?

My Goat is Dirk because he’s German and because his championship run is for me the greatest championship run ever.

Thanks Robert 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.

Congrats on the big 93-70 win over Wulfen. This was a much needed win. Did you guys get back to playing BG Hagen basketball?

Definitely got back to playing the basketball that got us to an undefeated start. Now we have to take this momentum and turn it up a notch

Did you eat anything extra special at Thanksgiving that helped get this win and your triple double?

Sadly our Thanksgiving dinner got postponed due to a Pokal game so I’d say I was just determined to get us the win this week.

Talk about the 40 minutes. Was this one of those games where the team was solid for the whole 40 minutes?

I would say we were all in all locked in the whole game. We got a much needed good start to the game that got us a pretty good lead and our defense was very good most of the game. Wulfen had a couple runs which is normal in basketball but we stayed composed and were able to win deservingly.

BG Hagen allowed only 70 points. What things did the club do better on the defensive end that simply brought more stability? The team forced 22 turnovers.

We moved as one on defense finally and this is the outcome you get from that. 70 points is an exceptional job for us defensively and we were all over the place forcing steals and turning that into easy points.

The team allowed only 6 turnovers. How proud are you of how the team took care oft he ball?

Very proud especially because we shared the ball as well. Everyone was comfortable and played loose.

You had an incredible 32/13/10 game. Was this a top 3 game in your pro career?

Not quite top 3 but it’s one of those games where I feel I played a complete game and was able to do a bit of everything.

The team next plays 4-8 Leverkusen 2. This is the perfect type of game to continue the winning streak. What will be key in getting the win?

We are fortunate to play this game also at home which will be big for us but the key is to build off of last games great performance and look back from the first game when we played Leverkusen and see where we can improve and make it easier the next time around. This game is also an important must win for us but we’ll be ready to go for sure.

Thanks Shawn fort he chat.

Bryce Brown (190-SG-1996, college: Auburn) is a 26 year old 190cm shooting guard playing his 5th professional season and first with Mincidelice JL Bourg en Bresse (France-Betclic ELITE ProA). Last season he split time with Besiktas Icrypex Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) and King Szczecin (Poland-EBL) averaging 12.3ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 67.0%. He played his first 3 pro seasons in the G-League with the Maine Red Claws (NBA G League) averaging 16.1ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 42.8%, FT: 72.5%, Westchester Knicks (NBA G League) averaging 5.4ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 35.7%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 66.7% and the Long Island Nets (NBA G League) averaging 13.7ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 75.0%. He began his basketball career at Columbia High School and finished at Tucker High School. He played at Auburn (NCAA) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 130 games. In his last 2 seasons he averaged 15.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 77.5% and 15.9ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 80.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against ratiopharm Ulm.

Thanks Bryce for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second season overseas and first with Mincidelice JL Bourg en Bresse (France-Betclic ELITE ProA). After playing in Turkey and Poland last season, what kind of experience has it been playing in France?

So far, playing in France has been great. I find that the schedule is more demanding because we play more games during the week than we did in Poland. I also find that weekly competition is consistently better due to teams having deeper benches. In Poland, we had good teams and players, but the teams were not as deep as they are in France.

Many have the Turkish and France leagues in the top 5 of best leagues in Europe? Would you say the France Pro A league is all around a better league than the Turkish one?

For the time I was in Turkey, the teams I played against were very good. However, I did not play very long in Turkey, so I think it will be unfair of me to place one over the other. I still watch a lot of Turkish basketball and if I was forced to select one over the other as far as overall league quality, I would lean to France because France seems to have more good teams from top – to- bottom.

You have needed no real adjustment time overseas. You had a fine season in Poland and played well in France. How do you feel does your game translate best to the European style?

Thank you for your kind comments. However, I do feel I needed adjustment time in some areas of the European game. However, I had a great coach in Poland and have a great coach in France that teaches very well and I was able to pick up on things fairly well. Playing in Europe is very different than playing in America because Europe basketball is really focused on team play (offensively and defensively). My game translates because I have always been a team focused player. I strive not only to be a great shooter, but I also strive to be the best play maker that my role allows me to be.

Talk a little about your game. To what NBA player would you compare your game and what are your biggest strengths?

As stated above, I think I bring play making and shooting to the table along with knowing what it takes to win the big ones. I think it is important to play with courage and confidence, but not arrogance. I don’t really compare my game to any one NBA player. However, I try to take some things from games of Steph Curry, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker of the Suns. All these guys are great players and I admire many facets of their games that I try very hard to incorporate into my style of play. If I can achieve ¼ of a percent what these guys have achieved on the court, I would be more than satisfied with my career and accomplishments.

You have shown in the last years that you can be a very consistent shooter. What is the biggest challenge in becoming an elite shooter overseas?

The biggest challenge in becoming an elite shooter overseas is patience, taking smart and good shots, earning the trust of teammates by taking shots within the constraints of team play and not allowing success to inject complacency into my work ethic. I continue to work hard on my shooting and skills every day.

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

I am a good one-on-one defender, but I continue to work hard on my overall team defensive skill set. I want to become an elite defender because this will allow me to stay on the court where I can continue to contribute at a high level on both sides of the ball. For us to win big this year, I must continue to strive for elite play in this area of my game.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to climb the basketball ladder as a player?

Now, I am aggressively focusing on ball handling and learning more about the point guard role. I don’t think I will ever be a true point guard, but incorporating more point guard skills in my game will improve my overall game play.

Last season you began with Besiktas Icrypex Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) but played only one game. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew you were far away from home? I’m sure living in Istanbul was a culture shock?

My experience in Istanbul was strange. They say timing is everything in life and I think being in Istanbul to start my career was the right place, but the wrong time. I loved the city, the food, the people. However, we had a very young team, and the players did not know each other, and instant success was required. With young players and no chemistry, success is hard to achieve, and I believe this was the main culprit for my short time in Istanbul. My wake-up call was not having my family around for the mentoring and support. Time zones were different, so the amount of game assessment time we had was very limited. Knowing that you can’t jump on the plane and go home over the weekend took a little time to sink in.

You then finished your rookie season strong with King Szczecin (Poland-EBL) averaging 12.3ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 67.0%. You won your first chip and went 3 playoff rounds and beat Slask in the final. What was special about this team and what was your fondest playoff moment?

The team was special because we grew as a team and around midseason, we started to realize that we were good. We had great pieces, great coaching and a great strength and condition regime. When we won our first play-off games with such ease; we thought something special could happen. My fondest moment had to be when we won the championship of course! Also, it was icing on the cake to win MVP.

You played your rookie season with the Maine Red Claws (NBA G League) averaging 16.1 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 42.8%, FT: 72.5%. You had a strong stretch at the end of the season, but then Covid came. Do you feel like you might have got a NBA call up had Covid not come?

For sure, I was on the radar for a few teams and was expecting a call-up. Again, timing is everything.

You achieved a highlight right as a rookie scoring 43 points against Delaware shooting 11/11 from outside. That is a once in a life time thing. How do you remember that shooting game? Could you of hit shots blindfolded that night?

It is funny, I was in such a zone, I did not even realize that I had hit that many shots. I was just shooting and everything that left my hands seemed perfect. I did not realize that I had hit 10 in a row until someone from the official scoring table told me. I think I could have hit 15 threes that night. However, there nothing special about warm-ups. I did not make any more than my usual number of shots in warm-ups. I thank God for that night. I believe I still hold the Gleague record for the most consecutive 3s made in one game.

In your second season you played with the Westchester Knicks (NBA G League) averaging 5.4ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 35.7%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 66.7%. You averaged 12 less minutes than with Maine. How tough was this season for you and what did you learn from the experience?

I don’t think that most people knew that during that season I was playing with a severe ankle injury that I later had corrected after that season. I injured the ankle in Maine, and it became progressively worse over time. However, I thought I could play through it, but did not have much success doing so. After that season, I had surgery, went through rehab and have not looked back since. So, I write that year off as an injury year and don’t think much about it anymore.

In your third professional season you played with the Long Island Nets (NBA G League) averaging 13.7ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 75.0%. How do you remember this season? You had some strong stretches but overall how difficult is it to be consistent in the G-League when seemingly everyone is playing for their stats?

It’s true, it is very difficult to be consistent in the G League especially when the rosters can change daily and it did on that team. You have no time to create chemistry and trust among team members. It is also true that I had some great stretches during that season and the word was that I would get a call up opportunity after Christmas. As you know, that never happened. I remember that season as an up and down season for a lot of players because the organization was not committed to building a team and that perception impacted how players went into each game. The team concept never materialized.

Did you lose a little faith in the NBA process after that season?

It is true that I lost some faith in the NBA process after that season. I played very well in the beginning of the year where I saw call ups for players with less high-level performances than I had during that time. To this day, I can’t grasp it.

How big is your NBA goal?

I don’t focus on the NBA as much as I used to. However, playing in the NBA is still a goal for me. For now, I am in a very good situation in France, I am totally focused on helping my team win a championship.

Do you still have back door open should a NBA summer league spot come or training camp spot?

I am not a big fan of NBA summer league. Summer league is designed for the clubs to look at their rookies and unless a club is really interested in you, you become a roster fill piece on NBA summer league teams. Some players still believe that it is possible to break through in the summer league. However, a very small percentage of players are given enough opportunity to break through. Again, it has really become a showcase for the draft picks and not about finding quality players who can step in to help a club. However, I think the opposite of training camps. There are excellent opportunities to be seen at training camps and I always keep the door open for an invite.

What was the best example that you saw in those 3 years where you saw that the NBA will always be a business first?

During those three years, the best examples I saw the NBA executing as a business first is when Knicks, Rockets, Thunder, Pelicans, and Nets go through massive changes. The Rockets, Thunder and Pelicans doubled down on the youth movement and the Knicks and Nets completely overhauled to position themselves to win more. I think the answer is a good balance between youth and experience.

You played at Auburn (NCAA) from 2015-2019. Quantez Robertson played there from 2005-20o9 and then had a legendary 14 year career in Germany with 1 team. Is a guy like that a role model for you for being able to survive so long?

For sure, and that type of career is very possible in Europe.

What memories will you always have from winning the SEC title over Florida?

Well, one small correction. We won the championship against the Tennessee Vols. I will always cherish this moment because it was huge for Auburn Basketball. The team was built from players from my freshman year and sophomore years. We were a very close team and believed that we were the best team in the conference and the nation. It was also an awesome year because we overcame a lot of adversity.

You beat Kentucky as a junior where you had 18 points and held your own against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, PJ Washington and as a senior lost 82-80 scoring 28 points and was the best player on the court with future NBA guys like Tyler Hero and Immanuel Quickly. Does a game like this still give you hope for the NBA?

Sure games like this give me hope and reason to believe that if I was afforded the opportunity, I could stick at the NBA level. I think all of those guys are good players, but as you said, I was the best player on some nights when I played against them. You just need for one team to like you!

You reached the NCAA final 4 in 2019 losing to Virgina 63-62. How tough was this loss and have you ever sat through the game again?

The loss was very tough because of the way we lost. You lose a game off free throws because the ref did not see the violation before that play! I will always remember hearing that whistle after the shot with hardly no time on the clock. I have only watched highlights from that game. I don’t think I can view the game again.

You beat North Carolina and Kentucky back in back within 48 hours. What do you remember being your biggest challenge in those 48 hours?

My biggest challenge during those 48 hours was staying focused on the task at hand (winning the championship). I was always taught that you don’t get too high on your success, and you don’t get too low on your failures! Excitement and popularity was building and it took a lot of focus to stay mentally ready and tuned in.

How did head coach Bruce Pearl groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Pearl believed in the full person. I mean, coach Pearl wanted us to be responsible adults, great students, men with good character as well as great basketball players. He believes in family, God, trust, and hard work. All of these elements have become a part of me and prepared me for a solid professional career.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jared Harper?

I would say we split 50/50 on 1-1 challenges. However, Jared and I usually worked on complementing techniques. We would work on things that I could do to help him in games, and he would do the same for me.

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

I would say Terence Davis from Ole Miss now plays with the Kings. Terence was a former football player. He could run, jump, was fast and strong. He worked on his outside game and has become a good NBA player.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Jared Harper, Horace Spencer, Kaiser Gates, Samir Doughty, Chuma Okeke

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron Curry Jordan Durant

Who is your GOAT and why?

There is always the argument between Lebron and Jordan. I identify with Lebron more because of my age I did not see a lot of MJ. So, I would have to say that Lebron is my modern-day Goat. The reason why he is my Goat is because of his consistent high level of play, his passion for the game and his neverending desire to be the best and getting the best out of his teammates.

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

I thought the first Coming To American was better. The 2nd one was entertaining, but the first one had a better story line.

Thanks Bryce for the chat.

Damien Jefferson (196-F-1997, college: Creighton, agency: Octagon Europe) is a 26 year old 196cm forward from east Chicago Playing his third professional season and first with Filou Oostende (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) currently averaging 16/6/2 in the BNXT league and 14/6/2 in the BCL.. He played his first 2 pro seasons in the G-League with the Stockton Kings and Memphis Hustle. He began his basketball career at East Chicago Central High and then played a season at the University of New Mexico. He then played 3 years at Creighton University (NCAA) playing a total of 87 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg.

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

Right now I am currently playing basketball for Filou Oostende, in Oostende, Belgium. Basketball has been great so far for me and my teammates. Being in Europe for the first time it has been a good experience so far. Obviously I’m away from my family and friends but my teammates have made it easy for me. I feel like I’m in a good position to achieve some personal goals I have as far as some team goals as well

After playing your first 2 seasons in the G-League you are now overseas for the first time in Belgium playing for Oostende. What kind of an experience has it been and what has been the toughest adjustment for you on and off the court?

It’s been a great experience, because I’m around great guys every day and I’m in a great city. On the court it really hasn’t been any tough adjustments because I feel like my game can fit any style of play. I would say off the court The biggest adjustment is being so far away from my son and family, but other than that everything has been good.

You are like your teammate RJ Nembhard overseas for the first time. You both play the same position. I can imagine you have fierce battles on the court. How has he helped your game on the court and have you became friends off the court?

Yeah, it’s been fun going up against RJ because he and I both know that we want to win and when you have two guys that are so competitive and want to win so bad I feel like we have no choice but to get along with each other. We have gotten close with each other in a quick amount of time due to us having that competitive drive.

What has it been like being teammates with Belgium basketball legend Sam Von Rossom? Is he a guy that helped show you the ropes in the early going?

It’s been fun playing with Sam. Just learning from him and learning from his experience of playing overseas for so long. He’s definitely been a guy that has been giving me great advice and tips of playing in Europe. He’s super smart and he is a person who I feel like I can always go to when I need some advice.

You really have needed no adjustment time with your game. What are your goals with your game and What type of player are you now and what type of player do you want to become in your first season overseas?

My goals are to win as many games as possible. All I care about is winning and being a good teammate. Right now I feel like I am an under the radar player but by the end of the season, I want to be a guy people and teams are talking about.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm player. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

If I can compare my game to an NBA players game, I would compare myself to probably Jimmy Butler or Jalen Brown. Those are both two guys who are some of the best two way guys in the NBA who can give you offense and bring a high-level of defense every night.

You’re a guy that can fill the stat sheet with ease. How would you describe your game and how present is versatility in your game?

Yeah, I try to be versatile in many ways rather that being a scorer, a rebounder, a passer or a defender. I try to mix it up and not have any limitations in my game. I would describe my game as a do it all type of guy.

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

I feel like right now. I am a lockdown defender. I do a pretty good job of sliding my feet to stay in front of my man and I do a good job of playing the passing lanes.

On what area´s of your game are you working on most so you can keep improving?

Making better decisions with the ball in my hands as far as pick and roll situations and knowing when to score, and knowing when to make the pass to an open teammate. And I’m still working every day on being a more consistent three-point shooter.

You played your first 2 seasons in the G-League. What kind of an experience was that. Give a good example of how the NBA will always be a business first before anything? For example great talented guys getting cut because of roster space or other examples?

Yeah, I mean it’s a business and you have to come and prepare ready to work every day and if not, they will find someone else who will work hard do what they expect of them to do and keep moving forward.

You split your rookie season with Stockton and Memphis. What do you remember being your wake up call to the NBA/G-League?

I would say my wake up call was being traded from Stockton to Memphis. It all happened so fast, and I had no clue that I was going to be traded, but it all worked out in the long run.

In your second season with the Memphis Hustle (NBA G League), you upped your game averaging 10.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 57.2%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 61.4%. How do you feel did your game improve in your sophomore season?

I feel like my game improved because I got used to the style of play the speed and I was familiar with my team and teammates. And I was in a more better situation where I could just relax and play my game.

Was your 25 points in the 1 point win over Austin one of your more memorable games in the G-League?

I would say yes and no because I had a lot of good games while I was in Memphis. But the game I had 25 against Austin. I would never forget that game because it was against Denzel Mahoney and his team and we got the win so that meant a lot and it was cool because I had bragging rights. But some other games I wouldn’t forget would be the games I had against Stockton the team that traded me to Memphis.

You began your college career at New Mexico (NCAA). You stayed only 1 season. What positives do you feel did you gain from that stay?

Some positives I gained from my one year in New Mexico, was constantly putting in work, and allowing myself to learn from the upperclassman.

You then played at Creighton University (NCAA) from 2017-2020 improving your scoring each season. How do you feel did your game grow in those 3 seasons?

My game grew every year with the situation and role that I was put in. Every year, I gained more and more confidence while playing under coach McDermott and obviously with the hard work that I’ve put in during the summer.

You played in 2 NCAA tournaments losing to TCU and Gonzaga. Which loss hurt more?

Well obviously losing both games hurt, but I would say the one that hurt the most was the Gonzaga one. Why because everything we went through that season and still make it to the sweet sixteen was everything anyone could ask for.

You had many great games in the NCAA but where do you rate your near triple double against St Johns? How much fun was that game?

That game was very fun. I didn’t know I almost had a triple double until I got subbed out in the second half with like a minute to go. It was funny because my teammates wanted to sub back in just to get it but I was too tired. I was just happy we got the win.

How did head coach Greg McDermott groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

As far as playing for him and playing in a pro style offense I think it helped my game out a lot. He put me in different situations that best suited the team and I feel like not only did I have good success with the way we played but the team had good success as well. Not only did he help me as a basketball player, but he also helped me grow up as a man and that’s something I’ll always cherish.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Denzel Mahoney?

Unfortunately, me and Denzel never played against each other in a one, but I’m sure if we did I would win.

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

Being in the Big East conference I matched up with a lot of talented players during my years at Creighton University. Guys who aren’t in the NBA such as, Markus Howard and Myles Powell. But a player I would say who gave our team the most problems is James Bouknight who is currently playing for the Charlotte Hornets

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I’ve had a lot of good teammates so to just name 5 of them is pretty hard lol. But I would have to say my best teammates I’ve played with of all time are my high school teammates Hyron Edwards and Jermaine Couisnard, and my Creighton teammates from the year 2020-21

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan Kobe Bryant Lebron James Kevin Durant

Who is your GOAT?

My GOAT is Michael Jordan. Why, because of the way he played the game. His competitive drive to be the best and to make his teammates better. In my eyes he was the perfect basketball player.

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

I didn’t see the sequel but I do feel like there are some movies that shouldn’t be touched and that’s one of them.

Thanks Damien for the chat.

Keith Hayes II (178-PG, college: William Jewell) is a 178cm guard from Little Rock, Arkansas that is playing his second season with the Accent Baskets Salzkotten (Germany-Regionalliga).In 21-22 he played with the Sunkings Saarlouis (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 10.8ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 29.7%, FT: 86.4%. He played his first 2 pro seasons with SG MTV/BG Wolfenbuettel (Germany-2.Regionalliga) averaging 30.6ppg and in his second season averaged 28.4ppg, 5.4rpg, 3.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 52.2%, FT-9 (97.1%. He began his basketball career with McClellan High School and then played a season at the University of Massachusetts – Lowell (NCAA) playing 23 games averaging 6.1ppg, 1.4rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 81.5%. He then transferred to Panola College (JUCO) playing 35 games averaging 6.9ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 81.4%. he then finished school at William Jewell College (NCAA2) averaging 18.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 85.0% as a junior and as a senior averaged 21.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 87.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his career.

Keith thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your third season with Accent Baskets Salzkotten (Germany-Regionalliga). Is it fair to say that Salzkotten has become like a second home to you?

Yes I’m very familiar with the Salzkotten area, team and management. We had a great season last year and I felt it was the right decision to return.

What has been so special playing with the Accent Baskets Salzkotten (Germany-Regionalliga)?

I think our (players) chemistry on the court plus the relationships off the court are special, this makes us a close group of teammates. Coach Martin is doing a nice job of preparing us to be ready to play, while management is good and reliable. Also, the atmosphere is nice from the amazing supportive fans.

The club moved up to the Regionalliga this season. How confident are you that the club will remain in the Regionalliga?

I believe we have a good chance to stay in the league. Our goal is to make the playoffs and defend home court. I’m confident that coach will prepare us and we will be ready to compete each weekend.

You came late to the Sunking Saarlouis in the 21-22 season. What memories will you always have playing with Mr Regionallia Ricky Easterling?

I will remember how serious Ricky focused on his preparation and details of the game. I was able to take away from this and saw how he translated things to the games.

Despite all the turbulence that the world experienced with COVID how blessed were you to be playing professional basketball again with SG MTV/BG Wolfenbuettel (Germany-Regionalliga)

I was very blessed, fortunate and grateful to be able to play professional basketball with the state of what our world was in. Faith in Christ comes 1st in my life and I know without him nothing is possible.

How did you experience COVID-19 in the States? What do you feel was the most challenging thing that you faced in this time on a daily basis on and off the court?

I am originally from Little Rock, Arkansas and COVID-19 slowed things down a lot in the state over the Spring and everyone was in quarantine mode. I used this time to connect with family and take a mental break from society. The most challenging thing was finding gym time or a place to work out and stay active. I like to plan and have a routine and this was difficult to do during this time. So the biggest challenge was staying in shape and active

Some players had no difficulty staying in shape and finding court time while other guys struggled. How was it for you? Were you able to do all the things you normally can during COVID-19 or was it more of a challenge?

In Arkansas it was tough and gym space was limited. I would go to an outside park and shoot by myself but I found a private gym in Kansas City, Missouri area where I graduated college and moved there and began to train again with former coaches and trainers.

How do you feel did COVID-19 make you stronger as a man?

I grew a lot more in my Faith in Christ and allowed me to have more time to reflect on life. I was able to rekindle relationships with my immediate family that I was not able to do once I was in college and moved away a lot. Also, made me think outside the box more and grind harder, smarter and be more appreciative of normal daily life that we take for granted.

Congrats on winning the Regionalliga 2 title with SG MTV/BG Wolfenbuettel (Germany-Regionalliga). What was so special about that team that enabled you to do amazing things on the court?

T
Thanks! Our team was special last season and we had a goal, worked hard and stayed focused all season. Chemistry and roles were the reason we played well last year, I believe everyone just

wanted the best for the team. Coach kept us hungry and never satisfied. My teammates came prepared and we just wanted to do something special for the city. I will remember this team forever.

What kind of an experience was it being the lone American on a team that had only Germans? How do you feel did you grow as a leader in the championship season?

It was definitely an adjustment but there were people in management who were doing their best to make me feel as comfortable as possible of the court and my teammates included me in everything and we bonded well on and off the court. My roommate Mirko Derek from Croatia taught me a lot about Europe and Germany as well. I am naturally a leader by example and as the season went on and my teammates gained trust in me, I showed them mutual respect and they respected me as well. Also, my teammate Henja Galapagos was someone I learned a lot from on and off the court. He was my Vet and I learned how to be more of a floor general and control the game. Off the court he constantly invited me to things and offered me things as well. He showed me a lot of German lifestyle.

You averaged 30,0ppg as a rookie. Did it at times feel like you were a man among kids in this league just the way you dominated?

It was fun for sure! I was taught that you get out what you put in and to always respect the game. It was odd at times because I was often the youngest on the court but the best perhaps. I have played high level basketball since I was about 8 years old, but the people we played last year this wasn’t the case always so I just did what I was supposed to do and not play down to the level because I have dreams of playing in the NBA one day so I know it starts here for my professional career.

You scored 40 points in the first game in the Regionalliga. What have you seen to be the biggest difference for you personally in both leagues?

Yes, another fun game and testament to the work I put in this summer as well. So far, this league has better overall basketball players and is more physical.

You’re a 178cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say Isaiah Thomas (Celtics), Brandon Jennings. I like Isolation ball and I’m left handed so James Harden.

In the last years you have turned into an explosive scorer. This transformation occurred at William Jewell College (NCAA2). What do you feel was most responsible for you making such a huge jump as a scorer?

I was an explosive scorer out of high school but I believe my first 2 years of college I was in systems and in situations where I wasn’t allowed to play my game and be myself so my window of opportunity was smaller. The biggest reason I chose to go to Jewell was because the coaching staff understood and wanted me to play my game and be the explosive scorer I am.

Obviously you are a great scorer, but what other attributes do you feel does your game showcase?

I see myself as a playmaker as well. I am unselfish and I want to make the right, high percentage play. I can control tempo and my on ball defense is pretty good because I am able to move my feet well and cut off angles.

You have never averaged more than 2,0apg in school. Do you feel like you could propel your creating as a professional player?

Yes and this is one thing that I would like to increase but still be myself. I know that I will try and make the right decision every time so if I have weapons around me I could avg 5 ast for sure. Often, I have been in situations where I am the receiver.

On what things are you working on most with your game so it will help you to continue to make the rise up the basketball ladder?

Working on Ball Screen offense & defense. Different finishes in the lane: floaters, euro of both legs. Deep Range 3

You have played JUCO, NCAA 2 and even had solid stats in the NCAA. At 178cm, how big is the chip on your shoulder and how often have you had to hear the annoying words ‘your too small’?

I have a huge chip on my shoulder but it’s to prove to myself first actually because once I do that then I know I have proven it to others because I’m my biggest critique. I hear these words often and pushes me to go harder and I know that is a big reason why I’m not in certain situations but I have to keep going and believing.

I’m sure you watched some BBL games of Braunschweig last season. When you see that level, is that one where you believe that you can compete at?

I’ve watched 3 BBL Games in Person and I believe I can compete at a high level in this league, given an opportunity.

You began your basketball career at the University of Massachusetts – Lowell (NCAA) playing 23 games averaging 6.1ppg, 1.4rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 81.5%. What memories do you have of this year and why did you depart after only one?

This year was good for me because it was the first year I hit adversity in my basketball career. I was around players that if you didn’t come ready to play you would get exposed. It taught me talent alone isn’t enough and making better decisions is important as well. Personally, I didn’t fit well in the Umass Lowell system of basketball (style of play) and also player development is huge for me and I didn’t think I would get that there.

Did you know that ex teammate Jahad Thomas played in Germany last season? What memories do you have of him as a teammate?

Yes I did. He was a great mentor and teammate. He was the leader of the team and I stayed with him on road trips and absorbed knowledge from him constantly. He had a relentless work ethic and it rubbed off on me and other teammates as well.

You had some exciting wins over Sacred Heart and Cornell, but how memorable was it beating well known Boston College 68-66?

Ah man it was great! To beat a ACC team and it was my head coaches former school. That was a great memory and I was just happy for our coaching staff.

You then played a season at Panola College (JUCO) playing 35 games averaging 6.9ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 81.4%. What kind of wake up call was it for you coming from the NCAA to the JUCO?

My former High School coaches informed me about JUCO and I am a history major so I did research myself and I knew going in that it would be a challenge. Also, I knew people that I went to High School with that went JUCO and I knew they were high level players as well. I broke my ankle prior to attending the school so I was in recovery mode and that’s how this season went for me. It was a total grind and finding myself again and I’m truly grateful for the experience. JUCO is very underrated and some of the best athletes I’ve been around were at Panola.

Often Players that I interview that played in the JUCO say that this is a very tough league to play in, but it helped them mature. How was your season in JUCO and how did your game benefit from it?

Playing JUCO in East Texas felt like Division 1 basketball at times ecovering from an injury and at my size relying on quickness and explosion. It was tough for me because JUCO as a whole had the most athletic players. It made me stronger and once I got back in to shape, I realized how to overcome athleticism and height/length even more.

You then finished at William Jewell College (NCAA2) putting up huge stats in both seasons averaging 18.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 85.0% and 21.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 87.6%. What kind of a player did you become here?

I went back to myself I would say. A prolific, efficient scorer. I was given an opportunity to be a lead man again and a very trusting coaching staff and the rest was history. I credit it to my whole William Jewell Coaching Staff especially the Great Larry Holley and the person who recruited me Jimmie Williams.

You had many memorable games at William Jewel. What memories do you have of the tight 76-75 victory over Drury where you steered home 14 points?

Drury was always a tough, emotional game so beating them was all that matters and you just wanted to do it for your team, school and fans. I wanted to make big shots or make big plays in games like this.

How proud are you of your ex teammate Pharroh Gordon for also making a career overseas? What will you always appreciate most about him on and off the court?

Very Proud of him and happy for him. I saw his grind everyday especially our Junior year as roommates, waking up 5am/6 am to get extra workouts in with our trainer Tom O’Brien. He was a very tactical player which is opposite to me so I would learn from him and try to get his perspective on the game. Off the court he had European vibes and I like fashion so he and I would talk a lot on that. We had a Joel Embid and Ben Simmons relationship. I was cool, laid back and chilled a lot (Joel Embid) and he was pretty active and outgoing more like Simmons but on the court we got each other and we wanted to win.

How did head coach Larry Holley groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

He taught me more off the court than on, He is a great man and is a person I aspire to be. He taught me to enjoy every day like it’s your last and to genuinely care for others. He showed me that your hard work and dedication will get noticed. He taught great ethics, morals and taught us how to be upstanding men in our community and be positive influences. The energy he brought everyday taught me that I needed to be even more grateful and motivated because it was a prime example of greatness. It was an honor playing for him, he trusted Coach Jimmie Williams and stayed true to his word of giving me another opportunity to prove myself and I tried to hold my end of the stick as well.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Byron Harp?

Byron was a tough match up and one of the best guards I have played with. He took a lot of pressure off me and I could rely on him. Its basketball so someone will get the best of you at times. But, in a 1-on 1 match up its me lol.

Who was the best player that you ever battled in your life that made it to the NBA?

I have played with or against a lot of NBA Players but not necessarily battled them.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

1.Karson Hayes (High School)
2.Andre Jones (High School)
3.Pernell Adgai (Panola)
4.Eysan Wiley (William Jewell)
5.Patrick Whelan (William Jewell

Please list your personal own NBA Rushmore of past or present NBA players?

MJ, Kobe, Lebron, Steph

What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James?

Lol I don’t like how they skip over Kobe actually, he was more like Jordan to me personally but Jordan is the GOAT.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Uncut Gems

When you hear the word New Hampshire, the first word that could come to mind is beautiful state. It is located in the north east part of the United States and has breathtaking landscape and has less than 1,5 million inhabitants. Some other things that come to mind is the beautiful granite that is all over the place, nice mountain area’s to go sking for a day and also in politics as having the second primary in the presidential election voting cycle. Basketball is something that doesn’t come to mind when talking about the state New Hampshire. It has a few pro baseball clubs, but no pro basketball team. On the other hand it does have college basketball teams. It has 2 schools with New Hampshire and Dartmouth battling in the NCAA and 3 schools in division 2 with Franklin Pierce, Southern New Hampshire and Saint Anselm. That I would actually be visiting a game between St Anselm and Southern New Hampshire is something I normally wouldn’t have done, but it isn’t every day you can see a German kid competiting and of course it has a special flair when he is the son of a legendary German player. Before I walked into the small gym that had seating only on 2 sides, I inspected the roster on the wall as there were fotos of all the players. And there he was #22 Elias Rodel. I raced into the gym and caught both schools in Warmups: I looked for 22 and there he was taking shots and smiling and having a good time. He was a lot taller than the last time I had seen him. A lot can happen in 6,5 years especially with the growth spurt of a young man between 15-21. I last saw Elias Rodl (198-F) in May 2017 as he had helped the Alba Berlin U-16 JBBL team together with current NBA player Franz Wagner win the German title. He kind of had slipped my mind since the last years. By chance, I had come across his name and when I saw he played at St Anselm, I felt it was worth a trip. I was by chance on a short visit in New England to visit family, so watching him play came in handy. It really is a small basketball world as Elias Rodl is living the student-basketball life at St Anselm college in New Hampshire.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Elias Rodl after he helped Alba Berlin win the 2017 JBBL(U-16) title in Frankfurt Germany

Elias Rodl was born on May 22, 2002 in Berlin Germany. He is the son of Henrik Rodl who won the 1993 NCAA title with North Carolina and won 10 titles with Alba Berlin. He lived in Berlin until he was 8 years old and then moved to Trier as his dad took on the job as TBB Trier head coach. He lived in Trier from ages 8-14. There he played JBBL (u-16). Then he returned back to Berlin and would play JBBL and NBBL as Covid was in full swing He achived a lot of success with Alba Berlin winning back to back JBBL (U-16) titles in 2017 and 2018 playing with guys like Nolan Adekunle, Evans Rapique and Hendrik Warner. I remember the second win well. We had an easy time beating Ludwigsburg in the semi’s despite them having a tough Ariel Huckporti. In the final we played FC Bayern Munich. I remember Munich had Sasha Grant. He had been playing NBBL, but they had him play in the JBBL final which I felt a bit unfair. We were down by 15, but came back and won by 14 points to win the title’, remembered Elias Rodl. His game grew a lot in his time with Alba Berlin especially under the guidance of coach Vladimir Bogojevic. Vladi really helped my game a lot. He helped me learn discipline. He didn’t just teach me to play basketball well, but how to play it the right way’, stressed Elias Rodl. In the first JBBL win, he was teammates with a skinny lanky kid by the name of Franz Wagner who was a #1 NBA draft pick in 2021 and now in his third year with the Orlando Magic. The next season, Wagner helped the Alba Berlin NBBL (U-19) team secure the title. The growth in his game in one season was incredible. He was as big as me in 2017, but in the next year he made a huge growth spurt. He was so talented. After that season there was no stopping him. He developed further where ever he was with Alba Berlin and Michigan and continues to do so in the NBA. He is always calm and collected. He is 210cm and can bring the ball like a point guard. He was a good teammate. He is very confident, but was never arrogant. He is always positive and in a good mood. We were never great freinds, but we understood each other well. I don’t want to ask for too much, but when he is in Boston and plays against the Celtics, he gives me something like 2-4 tickets’, added Elias Rodl. But his ex Alba teammates also have nice memoriers of him. I have very fond memories of our youth days with Alba Berlin. Wehad numerous successful years and pushed each other to become better since we played the same position. I could always count on him off the court. We really did a lot together and had cool memories. We still have contact today which makes me happy’, stated Fraport Skyliner Nolan Adekunle.

Elias Rodl at Saint Anselm in 2023

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Elias Rodl at Saint Anselm in November 2023

He would remain with Alba Berlin a few more years playing NBBL and also played with their farm team Lok Bernau. It wasn’t an easy time dealing with Covid, but he made the most out of it. He then came to the decision to cross the pond in 2021 to start a new challenge at St Thomas More a prep school in Connecticut. Some notable basketball alumni that have laced on their sneakers there have been Andre Drummond, Eric Pashall, Yuta Wantanabe and Damion Lee. I had come to a point where I had to make the decision, do I want to just play Pro B or do I want to go to the United States and pursue the student/basketball life’, stressed Elias Rodl. The influx of German basketball players going to high school’s and colleges have been abundant in the last 10 years and the adjustment period isn’t always easy, but he had no problems with that: I had been in the states every summer as a kid. So for me it was more about just being away from home for so long. 5 months away is a long time’, said Elias Rodl. Being able to play at St Thomas More was vital in his preparation for later coming to Saint Anselm. They played the same college rules so that helped me a lot. I was able to get used to the physicality and athleticism’, commented Elias Rodl. He helped the school to 25 wins and were a 6th six seed in the NEPSAC Class AAA Tournament.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber interviewing 1993 NCAA champion with North Carolina and German basketball legend Henrik Rodl at the 2009 BBL all star game in Mannheim, Germany

In the 2022-2023 season he took a new step and challenge enrolling at St Anselm which is a private Benedictine liberal arts college in Goffstown, New Hampshire about 10 minutes from Manchester. In his first season he played 16 games averaging 3,0ppg in 8,6 minutes per game. It has definately not been an easy ride for him so far. I started the first games, but had some bad games and foot problems. I was out of the rotation after that. I came back near the end of the season and came from the bench averaging about 10 minutes per game. It was a tough freshman year not knowing what to expect. I was up and down, but we did win the league title’, said Elias Rodl. His best scoring games occured in his first 2 games as he hit RMC and Daemen for 8 points a piece. One player that really was by his side in his freshman year was current senior Matt Becker. He is a great defender that is lanky, but very intelligent and can hit the three pointer. He is a calm guy and definately helped me find into the system. He was always very patient with me when I asked for advice’, added Elias Rodl. He plays for ambitious and demanding head coach Keith Dickson who is in his 17th year at Saint Anselm and has won 3 Northeast-10 titles. Coach is very stubborn, but very truthful. I respect his style. He will tell you directly if he likes something or doesn’t. He has been on me to keep improving my game’, stated Elias Rodl. So far this season. It hasn’t begun well for him as he has only collected DNP’s. But he is very ambitious and wants to play. I want to play more and win. You don’t always have to play much tob e successful. My goal ist o win. I try not to set that season goal, but just go day by day and try to get better each day’, warned Elias Rodl. He isn’t only surrounded by Americans, but the team is very international with 2 guys from Australia and one from Ireland. ‘It is cool to play with different nationalities. You get a good taste of what different cultures are about’, said Elias Rodl. He likes the game of German sharp shooter Andi Obst and ist a player that has a a solid mid range game and can score in many ways. Currently he is working most on his defense and ball handling. Defense has never been a strength of mine. I want to become more of a solid defender and just be smart’, warned Elias Rodl. Last season his dad who currently is coaching in Egypt visited him on campus and like so many other father’s of players has been a massive influence in his life on and off the court. He has helped me my whole life with my game. He helped me learn the basics and we also watched a lot of film. He is also a good father’, warned Elais Rodl. It will be interesting to see not only how his game continues to develop in the next years, but when he will finally be a normal rotation player. One thing I won’t forget from my visit to Saint Anselm was our interview. It is very seldom that I conduct interviews with German palyers in english. I remember intervieiwing Maodo Lo in english simply because I wanted to see how good his english was since he also played in the NCAA at Columbia. There are only 2 other Germans on campus. I hardly talk any German anymore’, smiled Elias Rodl. This kid will definatley go his path. In 3 years we will know if he will play professionally or go into the working world with a job possibly in the business world. Until then he will get enriched further by the American culture.

JaCorey Williams (203-C-1994, college: MTSU) is a 29 year old 203cm center from Birmingham, Alabama playing his 7th professional season and first with KK Buducnost VOLI Podgorica (Montenegro-Erste Liga). He palyed his first 2 pro seasons for G-League team Canton Charge averaging 15.6ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 61.4%, and 15.2ppg, 7.0rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 65.3%. Then he came overseas and has played in countries like Israel for Hapoel Galil Gilboa (Israel-Winner League) averaging 8.1ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 49.5%, FT: 50.0%, Hyundai Mobis Phoebus (South Korea-KBL) averaging 5.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 2FGP: 56.0%, FT: 45.0%, PAOK Thessaloniki (Greece-A1), Dolomiti Energia Trento (Italy-Serie A) averaging 17.8ppg, Reb-5 (7.8rpg), 1.2apg, FGP: 57.8%, FT: 69.0%; JL Bourg Basket (France-Betclic ELITE ProA), averaging 8.4ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 55.9%, FT: 43.1%; Eurocup: 15 games: 9.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 59.8%, FT: 46.5% and for Gevi Napoli Basket (Italy-Serie A) averaging 15.1ppg, Reb-3 (7.9rpg), 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 63.1%, FT: 43.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against ratiopharm Ulm.

Thanks JaCorey for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your 6th season overseas and have played in countries like Israel, South Korea, Greece, Italy, France and Montenegro. Do you feel like a basketball globetrotter and what have you enjoyed most about the life style?

Yes I do feel like a globetrotter in a way because I have played at least one game in any country you can think of in Europe. The thing I enjoy most is meeting new teammates and sharing and listening to stories about different experiences while playing in Europe and Asia. I also enjoy seeing new countries and trying comparing food from different countries.

Your playing for KK Buducnost VOLI Podgorica (Montenegro-Erste Liga) this season. What kind of an experience has Montenegro been after having played in France and Italy the last 3 years. Has it been an adjustment living in a country like Montenegro?

Montenegro is a bit small but surprisingly nice here in Podgorica. I didn’t know much about the country before so I didn’t know what to expect. Living here has not been a big adjustment at all other than it being small. The food is good and the living is good as well

This season your playing Eurocup again. You played in this competition a few years ago in Italy having a very strong season. How do you feel has your game grown in the past 2 years that will help you be another dominant player in Eurocup?

I feel like I have always been an aggressive player offensively and defensively but I feel that I can read the game a little better now. I have a better idea of when to get my teammates involved and when to attack for myself. Defensively I’m always smaller than my opponent, particular in the post. I am better at using my energy and quickness to disrupt the rhythm of the bigger post players. I think I can continue to get better in these areas and become dominant in Eurocup again this year.

Your teammates with ex NBA player Brandon Paul. What has it been like being his teammate? How inspiring is a guy like him who began overseas and then reached the NBA?

It’s always great to have that type of experience on a team because they can help you stay motivated because they have seen a lot more in their career. A guy like Brandon is motivation because he is a great example of someone who stayed in his own lane and although he didn’t go immediately to the NBA he eventually achieved that goal by working hard overseas.

Last season you played for Gevi Napoli Basket (Italy-Serie A,) averaging 15.1ppg, Reb-3 (7.9rpg), 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 63.1%, FT: 43.0%. It was your second season balling in Italy. Was Naples one of those cities that you will never forget? What did you enjoy most there about the city?

Naples is definitely a city I will never forget because of the passion of the fans and the city. They really want to win there and they have a fan base similar to some euro league teams in my opinion. The thing I enjoyed most was the weather and the food there in Naples.

Two season ago you played for JL Bourg Basket (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 8.4ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 55.9%, FT: 43.1%; and in the Eurocup averaged 9.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 59.8%, FT: 46.5%. Scoring wise not one of your better seasons. You seemed to play better in the Eurocup competition. What memories do you have of that season?

The year in France was by far the most difficult season for me because we had a great team that underachieved in my opinion. The players (American and French) did not agree with the coaching style and we never really found a rhythm and we never reached our full potential as a team. I think I played better in Eurocup competition because I had already had experience playing in the Eurocup.

What was it like being teammates with former NBA champion Norris Cole of the Miami Heat? Was there a game that will always remain in your memory with him?

Norris was a guy that brought a lot of experience to our team and he came a little too late in my opinion. He shared all of the great stories from the Championship teams he played on in Miami. The best memory I have with him in a game was the first game he played when he arrived where he scored 20 points which seemed effortless in my opinion.

In the 2020-2021 season you played with Dolomiti Energia Trento (Italy-Serie A) averaging 17.8ppg, Reb-5 (7.8rpg), 1.2apg, FGP: 57.8%, FT: 69.0%; and in the Eurocup averaged 15.0ppg, Reb-3 (7.4rpg), 1.1apg, FGP: 58.6%, FT: 68.1%. Despite Covid being in full swing, is it fair to say this was your best season overseas?

Trento was definitely my best season overseas. I had the most confidence and shot the best from the free throw line in my overseas career. Covid was difficult for all of us to play through but to be able to play great through that year was definitely tough for me but it also showed me that I had another level I could reach as player and in life.

In the 19-20 season you split time with Hyundai Mobis Phoebus (South Korea-KBL) averaging 5.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 2FGP: 56.0%, FT: 45.0%, and in Jan.’20 moved to PAOK Thessaloniki (Greece-A1) averaging 9.0ppg, 6.8rpg. How tough was this season? After moving from South Korea to Greece, Covid came and wiped out the season. What did you learn from this season?

This season was tough because I did not feel I had the opportunity to prove myself in Asia because the minutes were not there for me. I moved back to Europe for that reason and Covid came unexpectedly. That year was tough because I felt like I had something to prove to myself and I just wanted to play at a high level because I knew I was capable of that. Covid also made me realize that some things in life are out of my control and I have to control only what I can control and do my best when I have to opportunity to do so.

In Greece you were teammates with Bobby Brown, a guy that came overseas and then reached the NBA in 2008, then returned overseas in 2010 and came back to the NBA in 2016. This guy has seen it all? Was he a player that one could bond with off the court?

Bobby has definitely seen it all especially in the basketball world. He has played almost everywhere in the world and has a lot of experience. Bobby was definitely a cool guy to bond with off the court. He showed us around the city and often held game nights at his house that he invited us to. One of the best vets I have played with in my career.

You played your first 2 pro seasons in the G-League playing 100 games for Canton and each season almost had identical stats with 15/7. Do you feel like you were ever close to a NBA call up? Especially at the end of your rookie season you had many 20 * plus point games.

Although I played great in the g league, I feel like I was never close to a call up because of how the game was changing and becoming more of a three point shooting league. Yes I feel like if I had the chance I could produce at that level but I never thought I would get that call up because of my play style which was effective but more of an inside game. At my size I feel it would have been tough to do in the NBA.

Was there an example you remember seeing where you saw that the NBA will be a business first before anything else? You know for example like a great player getting released for roster space etc?

Yes I saw it my first year in the g league when I was teammates with John Holland. He was a small piece to the Cavs roster to most people but everyone on the inside knew what John Holland brought to that team and he was waived without and warning or notification. It also happened during one of our g league games so no one knew about it until we came to the locker room. That’s when I knew it was all about business no matter what you have given to a team over the years.

Near the end of your rookie season you played briefly with Hapoel Galil Gilboa (Israel-Winner League) averaging 8.1ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 49.5%, FT: 50.0%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being with a NBA G-League team?

That year taught me that overseas basketball is played much different from the way the game is played in the g league and my wake up call was that if I ever wanted to make it to the NBA and not come overseas then I really had a lot of work to do to try to make that happen for me. It was really different for me in Israel and I didn’t know if I would be able to adjust to being overseas after that first year.

You played 3 season for the University of Arkansas (NCAA) playing a total of 96 games. You never averaged more than 4,8ppg. How tough were these 3 years. Could you gain anything positive from this time?

Being at Arkansas taught me how to persevere through difficult times and to always work hard even when things don’t go your way. Basketball wasn’t going my way there and I needed that to happen for me to be where I am today

You reached the NCAA tournament your junior year and played 18 minutes in the loss to North Carolina. Was that one of your fondest memories on the court?

That was one of the biggest games I’ve played in during my college career and I could never forget the atmosphere during that game. North Carolina had a great team with great size and I will always have the memory in my head from that game.

You then finished at Middle Tennessee State University (NCAA) averaging 17.3ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 13.3%, FT: 69.6%. Was this one of the best decisions in your life deciding to go there?

Going to MTSU was by far the best decision In my life. I needed a new team and new coach after the bad experience in Arkansas and that’s exactly what I got. I was taught more about the details of basketball and that’s what helped me become a better player.

How did head coach Kermit Davis help groom and prepare you for a professional career?

He helped me focus on the small details of the game because the talent was there. He taught my team to stay disciplined on the court even if we were winning the game and that stayed with me even as a professional.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Reggie Upshaw?

Me and Reggie always battled at practice but I never lost at practice haha

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

I can name a few players from Kentucky. Julius Randle, Devin Booker, Karl Anthony-Towns.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Bobby Portis, Norris Cole, Kj Mcdaniels, Zach LeDay, Kobi Simmons

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Micheal Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant

Who is your GOAT and why?

My goat is Lebron James not only because of talent but because he lived up to every expectation that people thought he should be and more. On top of that he did it with many doubters!

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

Haha I actually have never seen Coming to America don’t hate me.

Thanks JaCorey for the chat.

Blake Francis (183-PG-1998, college: Richmond) is a 25 year old 183cm guard from Chantill,y, Virginia playing his third professional season and first overseas with the Medipolis Science City Jena (Germany-ProA). Last season he played with the Cleveland Charge (NBA G League) averaging 9.4ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 77.8% and with the Montreal Alliance (Canada-CEBL) averaging 19.3ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 92.1%. He played his rookie season with the at Westchester Knicks (NBA G League) averaging 9.3ppg, 1.4rpg, 3.9apg, FGP: 35.5%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 85.7%,and played 3 games with the Capital City Go-Go´s (NBA G League) averaghing 4.0ppg. He also played with the Newfoundland Growlers (Canada-CEBL) averaging 15.3ppg, 1.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 84.2%. He began his basketball career at / Westfield High School leaving as the all-time leading scorer with1,390 career points. He bergan his basketball career at Wagner College (NCAA) averaging 7.2ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 75.0% and averaging 17.3ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.7apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 80.6%. He then finished his NCAA career at the University of Richmond (NCAA) averaging 17.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 80.5% and 16.1ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 75.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Pro A game against the Fraport Skyliners.

Thanks Blake for talking to germanhoopscom. Your playing your third professional season and first in Germany with Jena. How have you experienced Germany? What do you like most about the country?

It’s been good so far. I think what I like most so far is the area I am at is kind of quiet. I´m a laid back person so it fits my personality.

What have you appreciated the most about the organization of Jena? Do you sense that’ serious ambition of getting back to the easyCredit BBL?

The structure and professionalism of the organization is what I appreciate the most. That is definitely the goal is to get this organization back in the BBL.

The team has started off well. How much potential does the club have in becoming a top defensive team in the Pro A?

I think we can be a great defensive team. Guys on the team have definitely bought into how coach wants us to play so far, we just have to stay consistent.

The team has many talented Americans but explain a bit how special a guy like Rasheed Moore is on the court? Could his middle name be Mr versatility?

Rasheed is very important to our team. He can guard guys 1 through 5 and is like the glue guy on our team who does a little bit of everything.

After playing your first 2 seasons in the G-League, you have needed no adjustment period to the Euro game as you supplying solid stats. What has been your secret to being able to adjust so well?

I think it’s just me playing my game to be honest. Being a scorer/playmaker has been something I have always done in my career and I just try to stay consistent.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 183cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I have had people compare my game to Kemba Walker and Isaiah Thomas, so those are probably the two that most people say and I would agree.

Is it fair to say that you’re a scoring point guard? One season you averaged 3,9apg in the G-League.

Yes I would say so, that has been my role on most teams I have played on. But I also love to play make for my teammates and get them involved as well.

You can fill the stat sheet with ease. What other strengths does your game have?

I think my defense is one of my strengths. My ability to stay in front of my man and put pressure on the ball is something I take pride in.

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

I think I am a good defender, I definitely want to become an elite defender and learn how to be more of a crafty defender when guarding guys who are bigger than me

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

I think I work on pretty much everything on a daily basis right now. Just trying to stay consistent and watching film on myself is what helps improve my game for me.

You played the last 2 seasons in the G-League. Did you lose faith in the NBA process after 2 years?

No, I have not lost faith in the NBA process. That is still a goal of mine down the line.

What did you learn about the NBA the last 2 years where you saw that it will be always a business first?

I learned a lot, and learned that it is definitely a business first before anything, which is a tough part of the process, but staying level-headed through all of it is something that helps.

Last season you played with the at Cleveland Charge (NBA G League) averaging 9.4ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 77.8%. You had 2 great games against Long Island and Maine scoring 26 games proving you belonged. You were teammates with guys like Nate Hinton and Isaiah Mobley. What do you feel is still missing from your game to reach that level?

I don’t really feel like anything is missing from my game. I just think if the opportunity ever presents itself, I just have to be ready to take full advantage of it.

In your rookie season you played 12 G-League games for the at Westchester Knicks (NBA G League) and Capital City Go Go´s. What do you remember being your wake up call to being in the G-League?

I guess just the speed and athleticism is something that is different. Guys are definitely athletic and can move fast in the G-League.

How tough is it making a name in the G-League when you aren’t a player that the club is looking at? How did you go about being present on a daily basis?

It’s very tough, but it’s all a mindset thing. For me, I just tried to take advantage of any opportunity I got and make the most of it, and let whatever happens after that.

In your short stay with Capital City you were teammates with long time NBA veteran Greg Monroe. How do you remember him? Was he a guy that would connect with everyone?

Yeah, he was a great teammate to have. Young guys on the team could ask him for advice about anything with him being an NBA veteran.

You also played 2 summers with the Newfoundland Growlers (Canada-CEBL) averaging 15.3ppg, 1.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 84.2% and with the Montreal Alliance (Canada-CEBL) averaging 19.3ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 92.1%. What could you take out of the CEBL? It seems to be a league on the rise?

The CEBL is a competitive league and it was fun playing in that league. It has potential to be on the rise for a top spring/summer league that guys could have opportunities to play in.

You played at Wagner (NCAA) from 2016-2018 and made a huge jump in your game. How important were your 2 years at Wagner playing for Bashir Martin for the development of your game?

My two years at Wagner were big for my confidence. I gained a lot of confidence and it kind of took off from there.

You had many memorable games at Wagner like hitting Bryant for 29 points. What was your fondest on court moment at Wagner?

I think winning the regular season championship title was my best memory at Wagner.

You played your last 2 NCAA years at Richmond averaging 17.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 80.5% and.1ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 75.0%. You reached the NIT Elite 8 in 2021. What memories do you have of that time?

Unfortunately, I got injured towards the end of that season and could not play in the NIT.

In your senior year you beat Kentucky and scored 18 points. Was that one of your fondest moments in the NCAA?

I think that was one of my favorite memories was beating Kentucky and also beating Wisconsin in the Barclays Center in NYC.

How fierce were the battles with Jacob Gilyard. How much does his journey drive you to keep grinding? He reached the NBA?

We always definitely made each other better and got the best of each other. And yeah, him having success at the NBA/G-League level drives me to keep going because you never know what may happen in the future.

How did head coach Chris Mooney groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Mooney prepared me well and he is a very high IQ basketball coach and I think that is something I improved while playing for him.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jacob Gilyard?

We didn’t have many 1-1 battles lol, but we got the best of each other going against each other in practices.

Who is the best player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA

I’d probably say Aaron Nesmith, who plays for the Indiana Pacers.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all.-time?

Shack Scott, Corey Henson, Nick Sherod, Jacob Gilyard, Grant Golden

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson

Who is your GOAT and why?

My GOAT is Lebron James because of how long he has been dominating the game of basketball and is still going, which makes him the GOAT in my opinion.

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

Yes, I saw the sequel and I actually thought it was pretty good. But, it doesn’t compare to the original movie though.

Thanks Blake for the chat