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Germany Need Just 1 Quarter To Show Who´s Boss Pounding Portugal 85-58 Reaching Quarterfinals At The Euro 2025

pic credit: FIBA

The way Germany was dominating at the 2025 Euro, one was wondering if it would ever stop? Germany averaged more than 100 points in the first 4 games and were defending with discipline and heart and nobody could stop Germany. In the Round of 16, they had an annoying opponent with Portugal who were one of those sleeper teams that you couldn´t ever underestimate. At the end of 40 minutes, the result showed again that Germany had dominated in the win. But for those who only saw the score at the end and didn´t watch the game, wouldn´t have known that Portugal was dangerously close down only by 1 point after 30 minutes. However all Germany needed was 1 quarter to show who´s boss as they totally pounded Portugal with a 33-7 fourth quarter to defeat Portugal 85-58 and earn a quarterfinal birth on Wednesday. “Germany’s victory was built on a dominant second half, where they completely shifted the game’s momentum through sharper half-court execution and relentless defense. They forced Portugal into rushed, low-quality shots while steadily improving their own shot selection and ball movement. Portugal’s early energy faded without consistent scoring support, while Germany’s depth and balanced attack took over. This comeback highlighted Germany’s ability to adjust under pressure and control games down the stretch”, stressed ratiopharm Ulm U-19 head coach Florian Flabb. Germany was led by their potent scoring duo of Franz Wagner (208-F-2001, college: Michigan) and Dennis Schroeder with 16 points a piece.

Germany received a scare early trailing rapidly 7-2 with not even 2 minutes played. Boston Celtic Neemias Queta led the charge with 5 points. However Germany didn´t let that quick burst of energy by Portugal stall them, as they showed once again how explosive their offense can be as they stormed out on a 9-0 run to lead 11-7. They got 3 buckets on drives by unstoppable drivers Schroeder and Wagner while ex NBA player Daniel Theis also scored. Defensive specialist Isaac Bonga showed his range nailing a trey to get Germany back on track and in the drivers seat. Germany kept the lead getting an additional basket by Schroeder while ex Stanford forward Osca Da Silva gave valuable support off the bench as Germany had the 17-12 advantage after 10 minutes. “ Germany’s 17-12 lead showed their composure after a shaky start. Portugal struck first with quick points inside, but Germany answered through sharp half-court execution, creating quality looks and steadily taking control. Their focus on attacking the paint shifted momentum, while Portugal’s offense stalled, producing just one three-pointer and two free throws outside of their early push. The 6-2 run to close the quarter was decisive, as Germany’s defense forced Portugal into rushed, low-quality shots. This defensive pressure, combined with balanced scoring, gave Germany early control”, said Florian Flabb.

In the second quarter. Portugal stormed back to get the slim lead, but Germany continued to defend well despite having awful shooting percentages and only trailed 32-31 at the break. Portugal took advantage of Germany´s shooting woes cruising out on a 9-0 run to suddenly lead 26-21 with 3,46 to play. In the run, they shared the ball well and were sparked by the 3 ball from Candido Sa and Travante Williams. However the German principle of playing fast by head coach Alex Mumbru paid dividends as Bonga, Schroeder and Wagner all scored on transition giving Germany the lead back at 27-26. However Portugal stayed tough and continued to attack on offense showing no timidness as Williams and Queta connected for the 32-31 advantage at half time. “Portugal flipped the script in Q2, outscoring Germany 20 to 14 to carry a halftime lead, capitalizing on Germany’s cold shooting and offensive disconnect. Despite the scoring drop, Germany’s offense retained a degree of structure through steady half-court execution. Portugal seized control by being more aggressive and efficient offensively, especially from the perimeter and the foul line, while Germany continued to struggle from distance. Germany’s inability to generate high-quality shots allowed Portugal to stay in rhythm, but Germany’s defense stiffened enough to prevent a runaway. In spite of offensive miscues, Germany forced Portugal into several rushed, low-quality attempts as the quarter closed. Their defensive consistency kept the momentum from slipping entirely“, stated Florian Flabb.

The third quarter was very tight with 3 lead changes and despite Germany going on a little run at the end, they couldn´t shake Portugal as they continued to have nerves of steel trailing only by 1 point after 30 minutes of play. Germany went on a little run at the start with 4 points by Bonga and free throws by Wagner as Germany led 37-34 However Portugal made smart offensive decisions and always had an answer getting baskets by Rafael Lisboa and Queta to dead lock the game at 39-39. Both teams continued to trade baskets as Wagner and Queta scored as Portugal led 44-43. Germany gained some momentum at the end with a 8-0 run as Bonga and ex Alba Berlin guard Maodo Lo dropped trey´s to lead 52-43, but they couldn´t hold it as once again they allowed Portugal to strike back. A Portugal 8-0 run sparked by three´s by Diogo Brito and Diogo Gameiro had Portugal dangerously close with only 10 minutes to play “Germany improved half-court execution created cleaner looks inside, while defensive rotations tightened, limiting Portugal’s open shots. Portugal’s offense, which had been sharp in the second quarter, stalled under pressure, generating mostly contested, low-quality attempts. Germany’s rebounding edge also became a factor, giving them extra possessions and slowing Portugal’s transition game. This shift in physicality and shot quality swung the momentum firmly in Germany’s favor”, added Florian Flabb.

The game had been close for 30 minutes and the question when was the bubble finally going to burst for Germany? Sometimes all it takes is 1 quarter to totally turn a game around and that is exactly what Germany did with a dominating 33-7 rout. Germany started the fourth quarter with a crushing 13-0 run to lead 65-51 deciding the game in a matter of 3,57 minutes. In the run, Germany shared the ball spreading their love around as Maodo Lo connected for 2 three´s while Daniel Theis and Andi Obst scored while Dennis Schroeder gave support with 4 points. Travante Williams halted the stop with a trey, but Germany´s explosive offense continued with a 10-0 run led by three´s by Lo and Orlando Magic Tristan Da Silva as Germany suddenly led 74-54. Francisco Amarante stopped the run with a lay in, but Germany didn´t slow down, but wanted more closing out the game strong with a 11-2 run. In the run, Tristan Da Silva exploded with 8 points and 2 three´s while Obst nailed a open trey. “Germany completely took control in the fourth quarter, outscoring Portugal 26-9 to secure the victory. Their defense forcing turnovers and pushing Portugal into hurried, low-quality shots. On offense, Germany finally found rhythm, combining efficient inside play with timely perimeter scoring to stretch the lead quickly. Portugal’s fatigue showed as their ball movement broke down and second-chance opportunities dried up. Germany’s balance on both ends turned a tight game into a comfortable win, underlining their depth and composure in high-pressure moments“, explained Florian Flabb. Germany had 5 guys score in double figures as Isaac Bonga had 15 points and Maodo Lo 12 points while Portugal was led by Neemias Queta with 18 points. Germany shot 46% from the field and 27% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 10 turnovers while Portugal shot 30% from the field and 20% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 15 turnovers.

If Kenan Reinhart Could Chose A Slim Jesus Type Of Hype Then It Would Be Shooting A Deep Three in Andi Obst´s Face

Pic credit: FIBA

It is no secret that at this time of year, it is a very hectic time for pro basketball teams overseas no matter if in Spain, Germany or Hungary. All teams are preparing for the upcoming season and with practice, individual work outs and pre season games, there is little time for anything else or is there? Well in Germany there has been extra interest growing since Germany won the Euro Bronze in 2022 and then winning the world cup a year later, Germany is on route again to do damage in the medal category. For Dragons Rhondorf player Kenan Reinhart (194-SG-2007, agency: Octagon Europe), this Euro is like any other always very exciting for him since he has played for the German national team youth teams, but also has Turkish ties. “Both countries are playing great. Turkey have dominant player 23 year Alperen Sengun who plays for the Houston Rockets and Germany is so deep. I really couldn´t predict who will win it all”, smiled Kenan Reinhart who averaged 6,5ppg and 2,3rpg at the 2024 Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Mannheim, Germany.

Germany have really dominated the tournament like no other team having a spotless 5-0 record while averaging an insane 105 points per game. They were still allowing too many points in the first 3 games allowing 85 points per game, but have cleaned it up in the last 2 games allowing only 59 points on average. While Turkey have been no slouch either scoring at ease scoring 91 points per game and defensively have been solid. When it comes to talking about the success of team Germany, you can hear an excitement in the voice of Kenan Reinhart. “Germany is very balanced. You have the perfect leader in Dennis Schroeder that always makes the right pass and can find his teammates, you have a defensive specialist with Isaac Bonga and a great scorer with Franz Wagner. Plus you have the best shooter with Andreas Obst and guys like Daniel Theis and Leon Kratzer who help on the boards. Germany has a player for everything needed on the court”, smiled Kenan Reinhart who is playing his second season with the Dragons Rhodorf.

The story of the tournament though has been Miikka Muurinen. Some basketball fans who necessarily haven´t followed this particular Euro closely will say who? In Frankfurt some basketball nerds might remember the last name Muurinen. Kimmo Muurinen played for the Frankfurt Skyliners during the 2010-2011 season and it is his son Miikka who has become a house hold name at the 2025 Euro because of 1 amazing pulverizing dunk that had fans jumping out of their seats wooing and wanting more. Miikka had really arrived in Europe for the first time while in Arizona at Arizona Compass Prep School, this kind of spectacular play was nothing new. In today´s age of social media, all it took was for one play to go viral despite him not being a major factor for Finland who are led by NBA player Lauri Markkanen. The spunky and charismatic Miikka only played 2 games at the Euro against Sweden and England scoring 5 and 6 points in 23 minutes in total.

Influencer Cam Wilder gave him the nickname Slim Jesus to Miikka Muurinen and obviously the nickname has been heard by all who have followed the Euro. “Many fans follow Miikka. All you have to do is open up your phone and you will find that dunk quickly. Then there you have Slim Jesus just like that on your phone”, stated Kenan Reinhart. You have to wonder how other contemporary players feel about the dunk and hype? Muurinen is 18 years old and the youngest player at the Euro. Reinhart is also 18 and a massive German talent. You have to wonder if a young player like Reinhart is a bit jealous for the publicity or genuine happy for a fellow prospect? “I mean the guy is highly hyped. He had a great dunk that went viral. Who wouldn´t want to get all that attention. For me the game is always more important than the hype, but if something like that ever happened to me, I would also be happy for it. But I still do wish him the best”, added Kenan Reinhart.

The funny thing is that not only Frankfurt fans may have gone hmmmmmm, I know that name, but also Kenan Reinhart. The interesting thing is that Kenan Reinhart actually battled against Miikka Muurinen a little more than 2 years ago at the 2023 Euro. Back then, it was a one sided show as Germany destroyed Finland 96-57. “I remember that game well. Finland had one good player. The difference was that we were a lot deeper and they couldn´t stop us”, remembered Kenan Reinhart. Germany had high skilled youth players at that time with 2025 U-19 World Cup silver medalist Declan Duru as well as other promising players like Davi Remagen, Matthieu Grujicic and Ivan Crnjac. Reinhart played 11 minutes with 2 points and 3 boards while Muurinen scored 11 points in 17 minutes. “I remember Miikka being very agile and had very good ball handling and outside shot for his size”, said Kenan Reinhart.

This past summer, the market for top Euro talents going to colleges and Universities in the United States to play has soared to crazy heights simply because now guys are getting paid very high sums to go to school and play basketball. Big German prospects like Ivan Kharchenkov, Matthieu Grujicic, Hannes Steinbach and Declan Duru have gone that route. It seems like Miikka Muurinen will go the same direction in 2026. The interest for slim Jesus has been massive as schools like North Carolina, Duke, Michigan and Kentucky have shown interest. Is there any chance that Kenan Reinhart might do that in the future? “I have thought about it and it could happen in the future. I have had some interest from one or two schools. I´m not thinking about it now, because I want to play a good season with the Dragons Rhondorf. I will see after this season what I will do”, expressed Kenan Reinhart. Back to the Euro 2025. If Reinhart could have a sort of hype experience like Slim Jesus Miikka Muurinen did, what would he chose? “I have been compared a lot to Andi Obst. We have a similar build and shot. I would love to hit a deep three in his face for that hype effect”, smiled Kenan Reinhart. And what about who will win the Gold Medal at the 2025 Euro? “Germany has 90% of reaching the final. I predict a Germany-Turkey final”, stressed Kenan Reinhart. And who will win? “Germany has 50% of winning”, smiled Kenan Reinhart. One thing is for sure. Kenan Reinhart can´t be disappointed if it is a Germany-Turkey final, because he won´t lose.

Keith Hornsby Retired On Top After His ACB Season And Now Has A New Chaellenge With The Louisiana State University Coaching Staff

Keith Hornsby (193-SG-1992, college: LSU, agency: Octagon Europe) is a 33 year old 193cm guard from Virginia that decided to retire early in 2025 after celebrating a 8 year professional career with 5 overseas and 3 years in the G-League. He began his basketball career at Oak Hill Academy and then played 2 years at the University of North Carolina-Ashville (NCAA) and then finished at Louisiana State University (NCAA) averaging 13.4ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 78.4% and 13.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 81.8%. He began his professional career in 2016 with the Texas Legends (NBA G League) and played 116 G-League games in a 3 year span. He went overseas in 2019 playing with Polski Cukier Torun (Poland-EBL) averaging 15.1ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 75.7%. In 2020-2021, he played with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg (Germany-BBL) averaging 14.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT-1 (50.9%), FT: 90.3%: In the 2021-2022 season he balled with 2: Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 11.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT-3 (47.8%), FT: 86.4%. In the 2022-2023 season he played with Nanterre 92 (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 14.0ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 45.0%, FT-8 (93.3%). In the 2023-2024, he split time with BC Rytas Vilnius (Lithuania-LKL) avergaing 8.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.6apg, 2FGP: 34.0%, 3FGP: 30.4%, FT: 89.3%,and played with Surne Bilbao Basket (Spain-ACB) averaging 10.4ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 93.1%.He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

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

I’m currently in Baton Rouge, Louisiana working for the LSU’s men’s basketball program. I’m a graduate assistant, so I’m getting my feet wet starting out in the coaching profession. I’m thrilled to be back at my beloved alma mater. Geaux Tigers!

I interviewed you twice in your career. Once during your Oldenburg stay and then once about Lebron James. Did your 8 year career move in a flash?

A lot of people feel like their career flew by when viewing it in retrospect, however, I don’t agree. It feels like a long time ago when I suited up for Oldenburg, and at least a decade ago when I played for the Texas Legends as a first year pro. I’m fine with this. I never want time to fly by, and every pro year was fulfilling in different ways. Especially my time in Europe

After a great pro career overseas you have decided to join Louisiana State coaching staff. Is coaching something that you always wanted to do?

Coaching has always been something that was suggested for me to do if I wanted to. I love basketball, and in all honesty, it’s pretty much all I know. Over the years, I’ve established many relationships with current coaches (or old players who’ve become coaches), so I always assumed it’d be the easiest profession to transition in to as a retiree in the next stage of life.

Was it a no brainer to go back to the school where you played college basketball for the last 2 seasons of your NCAA career?

It was a no brainer if I had the opportunity, which initially wasn’t a guarantee when we decided to move back to Louisiana. My wife is from a city about an hour from Baton Rouge, so after years hopping around Europe country to country, I thought it was in our family’s best interest to go closer to her home. The fact I’ve ended up on the staff at LSU is part generous support for an ex-athlete, but also due to prior relationship establishment with the current coaches before we returned.

How thrilled are you to be learning from great coach Matt Mcmahon? He had a great career at Murray State and now is in his fourth year at LSU.

I’m a huge fan of Coach McMahon on and off the court. He’s my type of guy. I like the way he operates. He’s a relentlessly hard worker, but he also has consideration and respect for the life of a family man. I think he coaches with a great balance between discipline and encouragement/positive reinforcement while also staying consistent with his role as a teacher. He’s a coach I would’ve liked to play for if I was still playing.

What are your main goals as a coach in your first year besides winning? What kind of strengths do you feel will you be able to give the players?

Our main goal this year is simply to win in an incredibly talented SEC. Besides that, my ability to connect and relate to the players will be vital. Players always respect someone who has been through exactly that they’re experiencing whether that be good or bad. In my career, I experienced every situation from great to terrible. I learned from my mistakes along with my success. I’m also extremely focused on player development, so I want/need to make our guys better players overall. Besides this, my main goal is continue learning how to be a coach. Primarily off the floor (scouting, operations, recruiting, etc). Believe me, I have a LOT to learn.

You played your last pro game 15 months ago against FC Barcelona. Was it a tough step to make or were you 100% ready?

After that last game, I was in a bit of a gray area about whether or not I’d play again or not. However, my wife and family were done. They’d had enough and we already had our house ready in Baton Rouge waiting for them. I knew once they were there, they’d not be leaving again unless for a visit. I wasn’t sure initially if I could do a whole season primarily without them. This indecision cost me a re-signing with Bilbao. If it was a normal off season, I would’ve signed back immediately. I absolutely adore that club and everything about it. Eventually they had to move on in the market, which made sense. We eventually decided that I should keep playing, but try to go later on (maybe November or December). This was our plan until my wife got pregnant again in early September. This was a complete surprise (a nice surprise haha) but this put the nail in the coffin for my playing.

You were 32. That is a good age to retire, but could you have played longer or was your body starting to tell you it´s enough?

I could’ve played longer, but not much longer. I was starting to feel the aches and pains more and felt more and more reliant on painkillers, etc. The thought of playing a full, lengthy season again in the rigorous ACB along with FIBA Europe Cup was a bit daunting going in to that last indecisive offseason.

Was playing your in the ACB, the best league overseas with the Euroleague a good way to say good bye? You reached the highest level overseas.

I couldn’t agree more. Playing in the ACB was the best experience I had in Europe. I loved every bit of it. I’m very thankful I got a taste of it before I retired. It was a dream come true. However, it also made me feel a little funny about calling it quits after I had just averaged double figures in Europe’s best league. My competitive side was saying “what the heck are you doing, you’re still good!” This is something I’ll just have to live with. On the other side, it’s satisfying knowing I stopped while “on top” sort of. Even though I didn’t play well in the last game, I can always say my last game was against FC Barca and Ricky Rubio! Haha

After you played with Oldenburg where you were already shot out the lights, you continued to do it in France the next 2 seasons with Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 11.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT-3 (47.8%), FT: 86.4% and with Nanterre 92 (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 14.0ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 45.0%, FT-8 (93.3%). Were these 2 years some of your if not best basketball of your career?

Those three years were definitely my best basketball. Oldenburg was my freakiest efficiency numbers, but I was blessed with incredible passers on that team to make a shooter’s dream come true (Phil Pressey, Braydon Hobbs, Rasid Mahalbasic). My most impressive year, however, was with Nanterre. Most of the shots I was shooting were infinitely more difficult, and to still walk away at 45% from three was a tremendous accomplishment. Unfortunately, I don’t think the market ever gave me the respect I deserved for those numbers. This is my opinion.

You were able to play for French coaching legend Vincent Collet. What do you remember him teaching you about the game that you got no where else?

It was an honor to play with Coach Collet. He had just come off the silver medal in Tokyo, so he was pretty much a celebrity during that season. He was also a coach you could approach to talk about the game with an open mind. He loved to do that with his players. That Metro team was the most talented team I played on in Europe. If not for injuries, I believe we would’ve fought for a French league championship, as we were first in the league standings most of the season and swept the euroleague clubs (4-0) in regular season. We also made it to the Elite 8 of Eurocup. If anything, coach Collet taught me valuable offensive sets that I’ll steal for future coaching situations as well lol. He was a high IQ coach. Some of his ATOs were genius, and I still have them memorized to inflict on unsuspecting opponents in the future.

You had some really good games in France against Le Mans and Limoges to name just a few, but what was your best game in France?

My best game in France was definitely at Limoges in Beaublanc. They always have a great crowd, so it’s an exciting atmosphere to witness on the road. Our Nanterre team was decimated by injury and had seven players. We ended up playing the game of our lives and winning in spectacular fashion. I had 33 points and played all forty minutes. If not for a merciful 2/3 zone call I might’ve not made it through. Me and my teammate Miralem Halilovic combined for 61 points if my memory stands correct.

The three pointer has become so valuable in the NBA. You had 2 very good years in the G-League with the Texas Legends and shot 49% from outside in your last season. Do you feel like maybe you were born 5 years to early and could have made the NBA maybe now?

I think no matter how well I shot in the G-League, I never would’ve gotten a chance in the league. I’m an undersized two guard who doesn’t handle the ball or defend well enough to automatically green light an NBA opportunity despite the efficient shooting. I was also getting older. You don’;t see too many 28 or 29 year olds get call ups in the league. I think the same issues hurt my chances at Euroleague. I played in every competition but Euroleague, and I think for similar reasons, this hurt my chances. If I was more of true combo guard, then maybe it would’ve helped my case.

You had so many great games in your career. What was your greatest game?

Two games come to mind. My 28 point outing vs. Bayern Munich with Oldenburg, and a 26 point outing vs. Monaco (Nanterre) are up there. These are individual performances. The Monaco shots I was hitting were ridiculous. They have one of the best shooting gyms ever! I was also sick, which makes it sort of a flu game.

Please name your 5 best teammates overseas?

Five best teammates from overseas! I’m going to name ten bc I loved so many of my teammates.

1. Chris Wright (Torun)

2. Aaron Cel (Torun)

3. Phil Pressey (Oldenburg)

4. Philip Schwethelm (Oldenburg)

5. Will Cummings (Metro)

6. Tomer Ginat (Metro)

7. Justin Bibbins (Nanterre)

8. Miralem Halilovic (Nanterre)

9. Margiris Normantas (Rytas)

10. Justin Gorham (Rytas)

Extra: I loved all my Bilbao teammates, but nobody stands out like the names listed above.

Thanks Keith for the chat,

Rookie Boston Stanton(TuS Red Devils Bramsche) Knows That To Be Able To Take The Next Step He Will Have To Think 2-3 Plays Ahead

Boston Stanton (196-G, college: Newman, agency: Origins Sports Group) is a 196cm guard from Denver, Colorado playing his rookie season overseas with TuS Red Devils Bramsche (Germany-Regionalliga). He began his basketball career with Denver East high school. He then played at Indiana Univ-Purdue Univ-Indianapolis (NCAA) from 2021-2023. He finished his college career with Newman University (NCAA2) averaging 6.6ppg, 3.2rpg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 83.7% and as a senior averaged 12.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 84.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

Right now I’m back home in Denver, Colorado, and basketball life is treating me amazing. I’m very blessed to have the opportunity to follow my dreams and see the world while playing the game I love.

You have a beautiful first name. How did your parents come up with that name?

Thank you! I am the Third, so I got my name from my father and his father. Beyond my grandfather I’m honestly not too sure where the name came from, but I am glad to have a unique name.

Congrats on signing with the TUS Red Devils Bramsche. How was the summer transfer period? Was it difficult getting offers overseas?

Thank you again. The summer period was honestly very quick for me. I attended the One Motive Sports camp in late April, and was in talks with the Red Devils not long after that. I am very blessed to have received the opportunity I did, because I know how difficult it can be trying to make it to the next level. Obviously I still had to work for it, but it definitely could have been far more difficult and I recognize that.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

I don’t know too much about the country of Germany in general, but I do know that there is a terrific basketball culture there. I am looking forward to exploring and learning more about Germany and its culture, but I am also excited to see how the game of basketball is approached compared to here in the United States. This is a great opportunity for me to broaden my horizons both as a man, and as a basketball player.

Have you had any friends or opponents who have played in Germany over the years?

Yes, I’ve had some peers from Colorado that have played in Germany recently. Since I signed to the Red Devils I have been talking to them to get a better grasp on what to expect from my first time overseas. It has been a blessing to have a resource that I can learn from before I actually get out there myself.

You had a fine NCAA 2 career. Not many guys come from NCAA 2 play overseas. How blessed do you feel? Is it like a dream come true?

This definitely is a dream come true for me. I haven’t necessarily had the easiest path when it comes to basketball, and like you said, a lot of people don’t get to go play overseas when they travel the path I have taken. I am blessed beyond belief to have the opportunity to go and turn my dreams into reality, and be able to travel the world while I do so. I have wanted to play professional basketball since I was in elementary school, so it feels good being able to give my inner child something to be proud about.

How did the talks go with head coach Christian Fischer? What did you appreciate right way about his basketball philosophy?

The talks with Coach Fischer went very well. When I was talking to him I could immediately tell by his tone of voice how enthusiastic he is about this team, and how seriously he takes his job. One thing I appreciated about him as a person right away was his honesty. He didn’t mince words with me, and he told me exactly what was expected from me from the jump without sugarcoating anything. That is a quality I truly appreciate. One thing I appreciated about his basketball philosophy was the style of play he is bringing to the team. He wants us to defend our tails off, be tough, scrappy, physical, and use our defense to create offensive opportunities. Not only is that a fun brand of basketball to play, it is very similar to the brand of basketball we played this year at Newman, so it almost feels like a continuation of Coach Allen’s basketball philosophy.

With what kind of a mindset are you going into your overseas adventure? You will be playing in the 4th league called Regionalliga. Do you feel like you will be able to be an impact player? The American imports usually rock the league.

While I am very happy to have signed my first pro contract, I am still very aware that this is just the beginning, not the end. Just because I am now a professional doesn’t mean that it is time to let up off the gas. My mindset is to be the best me I can be, and to do everything in my power to get both myself and my team at least 1% better every day, no matter what. With this mindset and my love for the game, there is no doubt that I will be able to come in and make a positive impact on this team.

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

If I had to compare my game to an NBA player, I would probably say Devin Booker just because of my ability to score at all 3 levels.

You’re a player that seems to be able to do a little bit of all. Talk about your biggest offensive Ssrengths?

Thank you. I would say my biggest offensive strength is actually my versatility. There were times earlier in my career that I would fall in love with the three point shot whether it was falling or not, which got me into some trouble. Now that I am more experienced and more developed as a player, I am much better at just taking what the defense is giving me. That way, if one aspect of my game isn’t working that day, I just focus on something else. If my shot isn’t falling, I can get into the paint and get an easy layup or get to the free throw line. If the other team has a big blocking shots, I can use my floater or my midrange. If I simply can’t score that game, I can focus more on playmaking and setting screens to get other people good looks.

Talk a little about the development of your three point shot. You shot a great 37% last season at Newman. Your self-confidence must be sky high at the moment?

Honestly, it all just comes down to getting game speed reps and shooting while you’re tired. These past couple summers I have spent a lot more time focusing on shooting the ball on the move or when I’m tired as opposed to just stand still catch and shoot 3s. Taking game speed reps and shooting the ball while you’re tired not only gives you physical endurance to shoot the ball the same way in overtime as the first shot of the game, but it also builds mental toughness. I am confident that every shot I take is going in because I put the work in. And even if I miss this shot, the next one is going in for sure.

The game overseas is more team orientated. How developed is your playmaking. Is this an area of your game that you will look to improve more as a rookie?

My playmaking is absolutely something I am looking to improve as a rookie. Most times when I am making plays for others it is through just reacting to what the defense is giving me. As I develop this year, I want to learn how to control and manipulate the defense instead of just reacting to the defense. Someone that comes to mind that manipulates the defense with the ball is Luka Doncic or Nikola Jokic, which makes sense because they both come from overseas. Furthermore, I want to expand my knowledge of the game. I like to think of myself as a smart player, but I feel like I only think about the current play. To take my game to the next level, I have to start thinking 2 or 3 plays ahead.

What kind of a defender are you and what are your goals on the defensive end in the next few years?

I am a prideful defender. I absolutely hate to be the person that gets scored on or misses a defensive assignment, and when that happens I feel as though I am letting my teammates down. In the next few years I really want to become a pest on defense. I am a solid defender and will stay in front of my man, but I want to become more like a Dyson Daniels or a Lou Dort or Alex Caruso that is just irritating and draining to play against. That way I can wear down the opponent both physically and mentally.

On what areas of your game are you working on most this summer so you will be prepared for Germany?

The areas of my game I am working on most this summer is my shot, my ball handling, and my endurance. I want to be as automatic of a shooter as possible because being able to shoot the ball well opens up so much space for both me and my teammates to be able to operate on the floor. I am working on my ball handling so I can create opportunities both for myself and my teammates. Lastly, I am focusing on my endurance so I will be the same player in the last minute of the game as I was in the first minute of the game. All the skills in the world don’t mean anything if they go out the window as soon as you get tired.

You stated basketball is 99% mental. How do you work on your mentality so you can always be mentally strong on the floor?

I would say the biggest thing I do to work on my mental game is meditating. We live in such a fast paced world that it is difficult, and almost seems unnatural to slow down at times. Meditating slows my thoughts down and allows me to focus on one thing at a time while tuning the unimportant things out. Meditating helps me build mental fortitude because it shows me I am not a slave to my thoughts or feelings, which is equally useful in life and in basketball.

You played 2 seasons at Indiana Univ-Purdue Univ-Indianapolis (NCAA) and never averaged more than 4,7ppg. How do you remember these years? How did your game develop under Matt Crenshaw?

These years were incredibly important for my development both as a man and as an athlete. During the first week of practice my freshman year, I broke my shooting wrist and never had it properly diagnosed, causing me to play the whole year with the injury. This was an obstacle unlike anything I’ve ever faced, but it helped me develop both physical and mental toughness. Playing for Coach Crenshaw was the first time I really learned the ins and outs of being a true point guard. At the time things were very rough and didn’t always make sense to me, but I learned a lot of good lessons that helped me when I got moved to point guard this year. Even though all the trials and tribulations, I am extremely grateful to have spent those two years at IUPUI. I learned a lot about myself, the game of basketball, and more importantly the game of life.

You had some good games against Oakland and Wright State, but the team did lose a lot. What was your fondest moment there?

I can’t look back on one moment in particular as my fondest moment. Those two years at IUPUI were unlike anything else I have experienced in my life. I feel like the people I played on those teams with, from the players to the coaches to the managers, all have a special connection because of what we went through together. Nobody else in the world went through what we went through, and that gives us a brotherhood that nobody else can be a part of. I guess my fondest moment is the kinship I build with my fellow Jaguars along the way. It wasn’t perfect, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

You then finished at Newman University (NCAA2) averaging 6.6ppg, 3.2rpg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 83.7% and 12.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 84.5%. You made a massive jump in your game in your senior season. How did your game grow in your last season?

I think the only thing that grew from my junior to my senior season was my mentality. Of course I continued to work on my game, but the offseason between my junior and my senior year was the first time I ever really worked on my mental game. As I did that my confidence grew more and more, which allowed me to be my best self when the lights came on.

You had many great games. I can imagine your 30 points and 7 three´s in the win over Emporia State was your personal favorite moment?

That might be my favorite moment of my whole career so far. My journey hasn’t been easy since my junior year of high school. I have dealt with a lot of obstacles and challenges that a lot of other people wouldn’t dare face, let alone repeatedly. I wouldn’t have been able to get through them without my parents by my side. So to have my career best night, on senior night in front of my parents was an incredibly special moment for me. It was special not only because it was my career high and we won the game, but it felt symbolic. All of the time, effort, and money my parents have poured into me over the years all culminated in that one game. I can truly say if that was my last basketball game ever, I would have been satisfied because it felt like I truly gave back to my parents.

How head coach RJ Allen Groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Allen best prepared all of us Jets for a professional career not just in basketball, but in life in general. Coach Allen truly expects all of his players and staff members to act like professionals no matter what their athletic aspirations are. The biggest thing he taught me was that being a professional does not come with the title, but it comes with how you carry yourself every day. Show up early, put extra work in, be respectful to those you serve and to those who serve you, etc. Coach Allen is a wonderful basketball coach, but the most important lessons he taught me were about the game of life, not just the game of basketball.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Latik Murphy?

I don’t think we ever played, but I’m taking myself in a 1-1 against anybody on the planet until they prove me otherwise.

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

Antoine Davis. Easily. Playing against him was literally like playing against a My Career character, it was crazy. That guy can shoot the ball from wherever, with whoever on him, whenever he wanted, and it was going in no matter what.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

This is tough because I’ve had the privilege to play with so many great players. In no particular order: Stevie Strong, Jlynn Counter, BJ Maxwell, Stevie Smith, and Latik Murphy.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kobe, KD, Curry, Lebron

Who is your Goat?

My GOAT is Kobe.

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

I didn’t see the sequel to Coming to America but I do agree they should probably just leave sequels in general alone at this point.

Thanks Boston for the chat.

Back At Home KJ Sherril Would Cherish The Red Velvet Cake From Aunt Tootsie And Now It´s Cheese Cake From His Girlfriend

KJ Sherrill (203-F/C-1991, college: Augusta) is a 34 year old 203cm forward that enjoyed a 8 year pro playing career overseas. He played with the Bona Baskets Limburg, the SG Luetzel-Post Koblenz (Germany-Regionalliga), Dragons Rhondorf, Telekom Baskets Bonn 2 team, Herten and the Cuxhaven BasCats (Germany-ProA). He played college ball at Charlotte (NCAA) from 2009-2012 playing 75 NCAA games and also played a season at Augusta University (NCAA2). He was an assistant coach with the Dragons Rhondorf from 2023-2025 and now is an assistant with Pro A team EPG Guardians Koblenz. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his birthday.

Happy Birthday KJ. You turned 34. Your in your third season as a assistant coach and technically could still be playing age wise. After 3 seasons away, do you think like you could mix it up again if you had to?

Thank you Miles for the birthday wishes. I’d say skill wise, I’m still capable of playing for sure. Endurance wise, I’m cooked lol. I’d have to do at least 2-3 months of intense training just to build my wind back up.

What do you miss about the game most? What else is there to miss besides the competition and being teammates with guys?

Competing would be the thing I miss mostly of course. Game preparations and team building on-off the court with the guys you put in work with daily. I miss the relationships you gain along the way with the guys.

As a pro were you usually already overseas. Did you ever celebrate any birthday during your pro career in the States?

Since my birthday is always during Preseason, I haven’t been fortunate enough to spend my birthday with my family in the States in about 11 years.

How do you usually celebrate your birthday in Germany? Is it any different than the way you did in the states as a kid?

Here in Germany since I never have time to celebrate my birthday properly, my girlfriend and friends do a great job of helping me celebrate with a nice dinner. I don’t need anything extravagant as I did as a kid.

How do you remember celebrating your birthday as a kid? Was there a special tradition in the Sherril family?

My birthday’s as a kid were typically how everyone else’s were. Nothing out of the ordinary. Parents would have a birthday party/Cookout and invite the whole family. They’d shower me with gifts and we’d play games and eat great food. Couldn’t ask for anything better than that.

What do you remember being your favorite birthday present as a kid?

My best birthday gift as a kid would have to be a Mongoos Bicycle with pegs. Back then, those were the bikes we saw Tony Hawk and other sports figures riding. I thought they were the coolest thing ever!

Did you have a favorite cake as a kid and what kind of cake do you like to have in Germany during birthday time?

My favorite cake back home would have to be Red Velvet Cake from my Aunt Tootsie. Here in Germany I always have my girlfriend bake me a cheesecake. Cheesecake would be my 2nd favorite out of cakes

Did your coaching colleagues do anything special for your birthday or was it just happy birthday young buck?

We had our test-game on my birthday against Giessen. I wasn’t able to celebrate my birthday with my colleagues but we were able to win a tough game against the very experienced Giessen team. I’d say that was the best way I could possibly celebrate my special day.

What is your biggest birthday wish as an adult in 2025?

My biggest birthday wish would be to have my family visit me here in Germany since they haven’t had the opportunity yet.

Thanks KJ for the chat.

There Is Only One D.J Johnson But D.J. Jeffries(EPG Baskets) Wants The Fans To Also Love The New DJ

At the beginning, I may have been the only one that called Dominique Johnson Dominque. But with time, I got the DJ name plastered into my mind as much as Big Deuce is with Boston Celtic Jayson Tatum. Veteran Dominique ‘DJ’ Johnson played 4 seasons with the EPG Baskets and is a player that will never be forgotten. He was the identity figure for years and was a player that always gave you 180% and played with an intensity seldom or possibly never matched by anyone. In the NBA you knew you would get intensity from guys like Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant or Russell Westbrook while in the German Pro A, you had DJ Johnson. He was a big factor for the EPG Baskets Koblenz winning the Pro B title in 2023 and moving up to the Pro A in 2023. Unfortunately the club didn’t have the desired results in the last 2 seasons and even if there were guys on the team in the last 2 years that didn’t always give their all, DJ Johnson would always give you 100%. DJ Johnson left the team after 4 years and now the club has reeled in a new player by the name of D.J. Jeffries (201-F-1999, college: MSU) who mentions Michael Jordan as his GOAT. And like Johnson, he also goes by the name DJ. Decorian DJ Jeffries is a very talented player that is looking for his pro break through with the EPG Baskets after a tough rookie season in the G-League where he only averaged 1,8ppg. Jeffries is like Johnson a very versatile player and wants to make the EPG Baskets fans proud with his game. ‘Yes obviously I want to make the fans proud of my game. I don’t know the impact that DJ Johnson had on this great country, but I know that I will give my best each and every day to make sure that the fans love me the same way’, warned DJ Jeffries who believes that the Coming To America classic should have been left alone.

DJ Jeffries who lists Brandon Miller and Dalton Knecht as his toughest opponents in the NCAA was born on December 28th, 1999 in Olive Branch Mississippi. He began to play basketball in the third grade and played for Cordova middle school. He grew very fast and was already dunking the ball in the eighth grade. He then played high school ball for Olive Branch. He helped his school win the Class 5A title averaging 20,8ppg and was a runner up as a senior averaging 23,3ppg, 12,8rpg, 5,6apg and 2,6bpg. He was named Mississippi Gatorade player of the year and had the honor to play at the Jordan Brand classic. ‘The memories that stood out was just being the with guys you’ve been playing against since you were younger and just competing and having fun with all of them’, said DJ Jeffries. He then played 2 years at the University of Memphis (NCAA) averaging 10.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 55.5%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 74.3% and 9.9ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 56.2%. ‘I feel like my game grew the most as far as my pace for the game coming in as a freshman everything was just at 100 mph but once I learned pace the game. it got easier for me’, stated DJ Jeffries. In his second season he helped the school win the NIT title. He gave all he had in the final contributing 15 points, 5 boards and swatting away 5 shots. ‘That NIT run was special especially winning the whole thing. It was a year full of adversity and even though things didn’t go the way we wanted it to go with a tournament run I feel like ending the season the way we did was definitely a special moment’, stressed DJ Jeffries. In his 2 years there, he played 47 games and scored in double figures in 26 games including netting 23 points against Ole Miss and 21 points against MVSU. He was very fortunate to learn from NBA legend Penny Hardaway: ‘I mean playing for a legend like Penny is a once in a lifetime experience and you know growing up I use to get compared to him a lot and he just helped me simplify the game for me and just was teaching me to be a pro on and off the court’, remembered DJ Jeffries. He then gained further experience at Mississippi State University (NCAA) playing 3 seasons and demonstrated his great consistency averaging 8.9ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 72.6%, 8.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 42.4%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 56.8% and 6.5ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 59.3%. He helped the school reach 2 March Madness rounds and lost 2 tough games to Pittsburgh and Michigan State, Was there a loss that hurt more? ‘That’s a tough question both of them really hurt but the one that still gets me is the Michigan State one because if I was fully healthy then who knows the outcome but it’s always that what if that sits in the back of your mind and it my last college game ever so it definitely hurt worse’, said DJ Jeffries. He played 100 NCAA games for MSU and scored in double figures in 38 games. He scored 19 points against Winthrop and 18 points against LSU. He had the fortune to play for Chris Jans who was able to groom and prepare him for a pro career. ‘I feel like coach Jan’s helped me grow as man, he taught me self accountability, he taught me a lot of life lessons that I look back at now and realize what he was saying. Of course we didn’t see eye to eye all the time but he definitely was a blessing in disguise in my life that I didn’t know I needed until I got away from him and saw everything he was trying to tell me about’, added DJ Jeffries who never faced teammate Cameron Matthews in a 1-1 game in practice, but would always bet on himself winning.

The Mississippi native who lists Josh Hubbard, Tolu Smith, Cameron Mathews, Deandre Williams, and Alex Lomax as his 5 best teammates of all-time played 1 NBA Summer League game in 2024 for the Memphis Grizzlies and then played his rookie season for the Raptors 905 Mississauga (NBA G League) playing 6 games averaging 1.8ppg, 2.5rpg. It was a season to forget. ‘It was definitely tough because you really didn’t understand the business at the time but the more you go through things you look at it like everything happens for a reason so I definitely learned the importance of being prepared for every opportunity’, warned DJ Jeffries. He also remembers his wake up call to being in the G-League and knows that he will have to be 100% certain if he will ever try that route again. ‘I’ll say my wake up moment would be preparation and learning the pro game and how different it is from what you are used to. I’m not saying I wouldn’t go back if it was the right opportunity but everything has to make sense for me to make that move back’, expressed DJ Jeffries. He is starting his overseas career with German Pro A team EPG Baskets Koblenz. He didn’t know much about the country Germany except that it has great basketball and a great culture. He even knows some guys who like him are in Germany for the first time this season living the dream with Eric Reed Jr, Malcolm Dandridge, and Boogie Ellis. For him it wasn’t tough to chose an ambitious organization like the EPG Baskets Koblenz and is totally content with head coach Stephan Dohrn’s basketball philosophy. ‘I just wanted to go to the best country for basketball and learn and grown my game in the process while learning from my teammates and coaches about the new culture. The talks with coach went really well. He came to me and was like we are a hard nosed defensive team and we play free on the offensive end so that was magic to my ear’, smiled DJ Jeffries. After a very tough rookie season, he is more than just driven to make his pro break through in Koblenz. ‘ I’m more motivated than ever especially since things didn’t go the way I wanted to In the g league but mentally I feel good it’s a fresh start and a new beginning and a new chapter in life to go and prove myself again’, warned DJ Jeffries.

So what kind of a player can basketball Germany await from DJ Jeffries who names Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Shaq on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore? He is a player that likes to model his game after 3 legends with Kevin Durant, Tracy McGrady and Carmelo Anthony. Like them he is a 3 level scorer that can do tons of things on the court. He can fill the stat sheet at ease and versatility really stands out in his game. ‘I think versatility is good especially with my size and abilities you can do so many different things and play many different positions that can make the game easier for yourself and team, you can pretty much play anywhere on the court’, said DJ Jeffries. His three pointer is still a work in progress as he shot the ball near 40% from outside at Memphis, but under 30% at Mississippi. ‘A lot of my shooting is confidence just believing you can make those shots knowing every time you shoot them. Good shooting is all confidence and the more confidence you have the better’, warned DJ Jeffries. He can be that impact player on the offensive end, but also holds his own on the defensive end. ‘I feel like I have growth in my defense I want to be better with my interior defense in the paint I wouldn’t say I’m a shot blocker but I can block shots I feel like I’m a great on ball defender and a great off ball defender’, stressed DJ Jeffries. He is never content with his game and knows exactly what he has to do to reach the next level. ‘In the perfect world I would say my shooting but an honest answer is my whole overall game just being a better player in general’, stated DJ Jeffries. Even if he is only 24 years old, he has proved that he can win titles. His leadership skills could come in handy with the EPG Baskets. ‘I feel like I’m a good leader I’m more of a lead by example then a vocal leader but when I have to use my voice I can but I feel like once I get comfortable and pick up on things I can be an even better leader’, expressed DJ Jeffries. There will never be a second DJ Johnson, but both Dj’s have something in common and that is both are winners. The EPG Baskets Koblenz are in good hands with DJ Jeffries.

The Dragons Rhondorf Squeeze Out 80-76 Pre Season Win Over Frankfurt At Linz On The Rhein

Juhwan Harris Dyson:

There was no scouting avaliable for this game

In the last 2 seasons, the Dragons Rhondorf and Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors had displayed 2 very exciting games that both went to overtime in Rhondorf. In the 2023-2024 season, the Dragons Rhondorf won while last season it was Frankfurt that won on the road. Both teams met again tonight with only 2 differences. This time it was a pre season contest and two that it actually wasn´t in Bad Honnef, the home of the Dragons, but in Linz which lies on the scenic Rhein river only 11 kilometers away. This game almost went to overtime as well. It was early in the pre season as the Dragons Rhondorf had a new coach with Max Becker and many new faces while Frankurt also had a new coach with Markus Klusemann and as always a very young team and many talented German players. It was the first test for the Dragons Rhondorf that featured more than a handful of very young players that was led by veteran Jorge Mejias and big man Benjamin Sadikovic who combined for 40 points in the 80-76 win in Linz on the Rhein. “We played with a lot of energy and played fast. That is exactly what coach wanted. We defended very strongly with a lot of protection. It was a strong first showing”, warned Dragon Rhondorf guard Juhwan Harris-Dyson (198-SG-1999, college: California, agency: Origins Sports Group) The Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors as usual were very young, but a team that have played together for years and have a certain chemistry. They as always gave a strong fight and at the end could of forced overtime, but Alvin Onyia´s shot just didn´t want to fall. “We had our ups and downs for 40 minutes. We gave a good effort and stayed together at both ends of the court. Every test game is a good learning experience”, stressed Frankfurt Skyliner Junior Fabrice Heberer.

Leif Zentgraf at the FT line

The Dragons Rhondorf were without giant Daniel Mayr while Frankfurt was without young German Ivan Crnjac. The Dragons Rhondorf came out on fire taking the rapid 8-2 lead. Rhondorf did a good job getting the bigs involved as ex Oberaching center Benjamin Sadikovic scored twice and ex Neustadt forward Duje Dujmovic and ex Phoenix Hagen guard Juhwon Harris Dyson scored. Rhondorf stopped Frankfurt guard Jamie Edoka three times as their aggressive defense was spot on in the first minutes. However Frankfurt retaliated and slowly began to claw their way back moving the ball better and being more aggressive on the glass. The Zentgraf brother Joscha and Leif supplied a lot of firepower combining for 7 points as suddenly Frankfurt trailed only 12-11. After a Jorge Mejias bucket, Frankfurt really buckled down and got 9 consecutive stops going on a 9-0 run to lead 20-12. In the run, Frankfurt did a good job being aggressive as they got to the free throw line and got a clutch trey from Fabrice Heberer off the bench. Rhondorf did end the first quarter strong with a 51run by ex RheinStars Cologne guard Kenan Reinhart who dropped 5 points as Frankfurt led 21-17. “We had a few turnovers in their run. They switched a bit on the pick and roll. It was tough figuring out the mismatches. We later found ways to get our bigs involved again”, stressed Juhwon Harris Dyson.

Jorge Mejias from outside

The second quarter was a massive up and down for both teams as Frankfurt held the lead for a little bit, but the Dragons Rhondorf rebounded and came back to take the lead and keep it with 3 at the break. Frankfurt began strong getting 2 baskets inside from Joscha Zentgraf and ex Kronberg center Florian Dietrich to lead 25-19. Rhondorf was sloppy with the ball as a few turnovers hindered their come back attempt. However Spaniard Jorge Mejias showed that he most likely will be one of the main candidates this season to take the big shots as he made a 20 footer and runner to keep the Dragons come back intact as the game was dead locked at 28-28. The Dragons kept attacking and went on a 9-2 run and had their first lead of the game 34-28. They got big support from the bench as young German Vuk Scepnaovic came up big from the bench scoring 5 points including a trey while Dujmovic was also vital with 4 points. However Frankfurt never laid down, but fought back stealing the lead back at 35-34 getting a big bucket from Joscha Zentgraf who does the dirty work at both ends and German youth national player Jamie Edoka made a lay in. However the Dragons Rhondorf regained the lead again and kept it until half time leading 42-39. Sadikovic made a lay in, Mamadou Diallo hit a 10 footer and young German and Remi Voelkers went coast to coast for the lay in. “Jorge Mejias did a good job running our pick and roll and going down hill. He put a lot of pressure on defense and was aggressive getting to the rim”, stated Juhwon Harris Dyson.

Maxi Peters with the lay in

In the third quarter it looked like the Dragons Rhondorf would run away with the game as they got a double figure lead, but as always Frankfurt clamped down and came back to trail only by 2 points after 30 minutes. The Dragons Rhondorf escaped on a 15-7 run to extend their lead to 57-46. In the run, they found back to their pick and roll supremacy as Benjamin Sadikovic exploded for 4 buckets as his length was unstoppable. Mejias also added 4 points and Harris Dyson made a lay in. Frankfurt got some offense going as Leif Zentgraf added 5 points and Edoka a lay in. Frankfurt continued to claw back and took advantage of misses by Diallo and Reinhart answering with back to back three´s by Maxi Peters and ex Isaac Bonga teammate Alvin Onyia to trail only 61-59. Both teams continued to trade baskets as Frankfurt was unable to get over the hump. Mejias scored back to back baskets while Frankfurt received buckets from Peters and Edoka as the Dragons Rhondorf led 67-65. “Frankfurt gave 100%. You can´t allow a team like that to come back. They have young players that play with a lot of heart”, stressed Juhwon Harris Dyson. “We showed a lot of character. No matter what the score board showed, We never stopped fighting”, added Fabrice Heberer.

Kenan Reinhart at the FT line

In the fourth quarter, the game remained tight, but Frankfurt could never regain the lead despite tying the contest once. Edoka and Joscha Zentgraf hit free throws to dead lock the game at 67-67. However the Dragons Rhondorf took the lead and would never look back. The Dragons´s offense executed better while Frankfurt did a good job getting offensive rebounds, but their shooting percentage was poor in the last quarter. The Dragons set the tone going on a 5-0 run as Mejias made consecutive baskets as Rhondorf led 72-67. Leif Zentgraf made a lay in, but the Dragons always had an answer. Diallo nailed a trey for the 75-69 advantage. Lukas Smazak made a lay in to trail 75-71, but it was Diallo again making a clutch lay in for the 77-71 advantage. Leif Zentgraf made another clutch lay in to trail 77-74. However the Dragons Rhondorf remained cool under pressure as Mejias scored on the drive again giving Rhondorf the 79-74 advantage. Edoka then made a steal and Joshca Zengraf made the lay trailing 79-76 with 23 seconds to play. After a Reinhart miss, Alvin Oniya had the opportunity to take the game into overtime, but missed. Sadikovic made a free throw ending the game. “Our defense locked in in the end. In the crucial moments, we made big shots. We had that next ma ´n mentality and scrambled and figured it out”, added Juhwan Harris-Dyson “Some shots fall and some don´t. We had 2 good looks, but they didn´t want to fall”, stressed Fabrice Heberer.

Coach Allen Ray Helped Shawn Scott(lok Bernau) Become A Better Shooter And Pay Attention To Little Details

Shawn Scott (185-G-1996, college: SW Christian) is a 29 year old 185cm guard that is playing fifth pro season and first with Pro B team Lok Bernau. Last season he played with the TSV Neustadt temps Shooters averaging 16.8ppg, 6.1rpg, 3.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 31.4%, FT: 77.9%. In the 2023-2024 season he played with BG Hagen averaging 30.1ppg, 9.0rpg, Assists-2 (5.9apg), Steals-5 (2.7spg), FGP: 59.9%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 78.0%. In 2022-2023 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 spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball

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

Thanks for having me. I’m currently in Phoenix, Arizona. Basketball life has been treating me well, I’ve been working with a personal trainer and preparing for the next season.

You had a very good personal season for TSV Neustadt temps Shooters (Germany Pro averaging 16.8ppg, 6.1rpg, 3.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 31.4%, FT: 77.9%. Despite the great personal season how tough was losing so much?

Honestly, it was a great learning experience. It was a very humbling experience because I wasn’t used to losing that much in a season, but I learned a lot and noticed things that really make a difference between winning and losing games.

The team lost the first 9 games. How did you stay focused after that?

It was tough, but if you really want to get out of that slump, you have to do all the necessary things that will help the situation and having team meetings and paying more attention to details, played a big role in getting us out of that.

Did you have to turn anything around with your game after the 9 game losing streak? Did you feel like you had to do more?

I think the main thing was I had to be more of a voice in practice and games and I had to be able to hold people accountable and speak up more.

The team then finished 9-8. H after losing it´s first 9 games. How proud were you of the team being able to turn the season around?

Very proud, I think we took a big step in the right direction in the second half of the season and became one of the most dangerous teams to face being at the bottom of the table. We were able to win against some top teams in the league and proved how good we could really be.

How special was ultra veteran Dyon Doekhi? What could you learn from him?

I think Dyon taught me how to stay calm in these situations where you’re not winning games and you don’t really know what to do, but he always stayed levelheaded.

What were the battles like against Anthony Watkins who has BBL experience? Is sky still the limit?

This past season I got really close with Anthony and now he’s like a brother to me and I always appreciated his work ethic and his attitude. He always played in the practices like he would play in the game and that only made me better and our team better and I believe the sky is the limit for him because he’s still young and athletic and has so much more to give

How special was big man Duje Dujmovic? What will he be able to give the Dragons Rhondorf this season?

Duje played with so much confidence and had no fear with taking big shots when someone at his age might not be ready for the moment and many games He stepped up Big for us. He’ll be able to give the Dragons consistent shooting and constant energy while still developing his skills.

You averaged 16.8ppg, 6.1rpg, 3.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 31.4%, FT: 77.9%. What school grade would you give your season?

I would say a B-. I think overall it was a good individual season for me but at the end of the day if you can’t win games, then your stats really don’t matter and that’s how I took the season and hope to change that for the next season.

How did your game grow under head coach Allen Ray. What part of your game improved most?

Coach Allen is another person that I built a strong relationship with this past season and his attention to detail is what made me a better player when he arrived. The little details of the game that most wouldn’t notice Coach Allen made it a point of emphasis when doing individual work and I think that helped me grow as a player. He helped me become a better shooter for sure and added more weapons to my Arsenal.

You had many great games against Itzehoe, Miners and Paderborn. What was your fondest game?

I think it was the game against the Miners because we have a lot of history of playing each other and I actually had only won one game against them in 1st regio so was happy to get another against them and Pro B.

Who was your toughest player opponent on the court?

I honestly didn’t have one this year but got to go up against many talented guys.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Anthony Watkins?

Believe it or not I don’t think we actually played 1v1 against each other.

Congrats on signing with Pro B team Lok Bernau. You and I knew that you could play Pro A. Was there any offers or interest from the Pro A?

Thank you, no there weren’t any offers according to my agent.

How excited are you to play for Lok Bernau? How appealing was it playing for Alba Berlin farm team?

I’m very excited to play for Bernau and I think it’s going to be a very good year and we have goals to move up a league in the next years and I really think we have a good chance and just excited to get there and get started. Playing on the Alba Berlin Farm team could be good for me if I’m able to get some practices with the first team and experience how they move and operate. I would be grateful for the opportunity but also looking forward to the season with Bernau.

How did the talks go with Dan Oppland. What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

I talked with Coach Dan, a couple of times before making my decision to sign and each talk was very good. I know that he loves to play fast, which is what I love to do as well so I think we will mesh just fine and he wants me to be the leader for the young guys and help develop their game as well which I’m up for the challenge.

You will be near Berlin. What are you looking forward to most about getting to know Germanys capital Berlin?

I was in Berlin for 3 months with the Berlin braves but wasn’t able to explore the city too much but looking forward to change that this year and really see the city and what it has to offer.

What will you be looking forward to most with this new challenge? You will be a leader for some of Germany´s biggest talents.

I think just being a part of their development and everyday grind. They already have the winning experience and practicing with Alba so I just want to do my part and help where I can.

Did you do anything special this summer like travel to a new place?

I went to Los Angeles for the first time which was great and will go to Chicago for the first time as well and really looking forward to that. Also went back to my hometown in Tulsa, Oklahoma and always enjoy my time there.

On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can make the next step in your game with lok Bernau?

I really want to up my assists this season so just working on making the right plays and sharp passes on time. Also of course my outside shooting as I want to increase my 3pt% this year too.

It´s always Jordan vs Lebron in the GOAT debate but why isn´t Kareem ever mentioned?

I think maybe because he wasn’t as flashy as the others and playing in the 70s/80s era which some considered to be less competitive.

Thanks Shawn for the chat.

Marko Bacak(EPG Baskets) Will Never Forget Hansi Gnad Teaching Guard Stuff Which Helped His Versatility And Passing Grow

pic credit: Michael Kienzler

Marko Bacak (210-C-1995) is a 29 year old 210 cm center that was born in Berlin, Germany and also has the Croatian Citzenship and is playing his first season with the EPG Guardians Koblenz. Last season he played with SC RASTA Vechta 2nd team (Germany-ProA) averaging 6.0ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 61.5%. In his career he has played for Alba Berlin 2 and played 50 BBL games with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg as well as Eurocup and BCL. He also has gained experience with clubs like the wiha Panthers Schwenningen, Bayer Giants Leverkusen, Artland Dragons, and Trier. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Marko for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome to Koblenz. How good did manager Thomas Klein sell the incredible product EPG Guardians to you?

Thanks Miles for having me! After some good talks with coach Stephan I decided to visit the City and organization by myself. Thomas invited us for Lunch and we had good talks where he described their plan they have for the club for the future. I saw the potential the club has and that helped me in my decision at the end.

The club have struggled the last 2 seasons, but are extremely ambitious and want to reach the easyCredit BBL. What was the main reason for joining this organization?

The trust from coach Stephan in my abilities and the potential the club has.

The first talks with head coach Stephan Dohrn went very well. What did you appreciate about his basketball philosophy most?

The fact that he knows that first of all you need good guys before talent to be successful. And also knowing the strenghs of his players and giving them a certain amount of freedom.

You played the last 2 seasons against the EPG Guardians in the Pro A. What memories do you have of the games?

Unfortunately most of them were negative hahah. With Trier we lost in Koblenz in a packed arena and great atmosphere, after we had a winning streak of 12 wins I think. With Vechta we lost the home game in overtime and in Koblenz we lost by 40 I think.

Your coming to a team where you most likely will be the oldest. How developed are your leadership skills and how else do you feel will you be able to help the team best with your game?

I think I can help the team with my experience especially when comes to being a team on and off the court. Knowing that good team chemistry can really lift you up as a team. And on the court just trying to make the right plays and lead as an emotional leader.

How excited are you to be teammates with other talented German big man Moses Poelking? How well do you feel will you 2 guys compliment each other best?

I know Moses for a long time already, playing with him together at Alba Berlin in Regionalliga back in the days. He is great Player, working hard on the court with a good inside game. And a great person off the court!

In the last years you didn´t have as big as an offensive role in Trier and Vechta as in Artland. What do you feel like will your role be this season in Koblenz?

From the talks with coach Stephan I felt a lot of trust from him in my abilities. But I also got to earn my role from the start off the preseason on and forward.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 210cm center. If you had to compare your game to a Euroleague player who would bets fit the description?

I would say maybe Johannes Voigtmann, being able to play inside, shoot and play for the team.

You’re a physical big man that can score and rebound. What other attributes does our game have?

The last years I have been working on my shot a lot, to be able to space the floor if needed.

You’re a modern day big man. How big is versatility in your game?

It’s very important I would say, because it gives me flexibility depending on which team we play, and which Match ups I am facing.

Your turning 30 this season. On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game?

Right now I am trying to get stronger and gain some weight. And my shooting of course, getting more consistent with my shot.

Last season you played with SC RASTA Vechta 2nd team (Germany-ProA) averaging 6.0ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 61.5%. How tough was going from winning in Trier to losing in Vechta. What did you learn about yourself in this season?

It was not easy. Everything is easier when you are winning as a team. I learned that you need to focus on the positive things, because otherwise it will be tough especially mentally.

You were able to observe Johan Grunloh. How talented is the German center?

He is very talented and a very nice and humble guy! He is a very hard worker doing a lot of extra work when nobody is watching, that’s how He added the 3p shot into his skillset. And he has a great feeling for the game with great instincts.

In the 2023-2024 season you played with the ROMERSTROM Gladiators Trier (Germany-ProA) averaging 4.4ppg, 3.2rpg. What was it like playing with Maik Zirbes? How beneficial were the daily battles in the paint against him?

Since I had to play and pratice on the 4 spot, I did not really had a lot of battles with him. But I can tell you if Maik got you sealed down low it’s game over, there is no way that you are getting back in front. You could really see that he was levels higher when it comes to his game inside the paint.

You played a season with the Artland Dragons (Germany-ProA) averaging 11.1ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 76.4%. You lost 1 4 game series to PS Karlsruhe. What memories do you have of this season?

All in all it was a great season! Even though the Ending was kind of disappointing. Most of the season we were locked in 3rd place and then somehow we lost the last 6 regular season games and ended up at 6th place, having to play Karlsruhe who were rolling at that point of the season. But still we had great guys on the team and a lot of fun! Shoutout to Pat Flomo, he is a great coach and I really hope he will be able to show it in the future, and even more he is a great person!

You played 2 seasons with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen (Germany-ProA) averaging 9.3ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 75.0% and 9.2ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 72.6%. You were very consistent in these 2 seasons. What was your fondest memory in these 2 years?

The first season making it to the Pro a finals and earning the right to technically move up to BBL. That year and that team Was really special. Almost nice thinking back to that season.

How valuable was Hansi Gnad in your development? What was the most vital thing you learned from him center to center?

I learned a lot from Hansi, especially when it comes to my inside game, but also overall. He was a fan of us bigs also doing a lot of guard stuff which helped us in all areas of the game. Also shoutout to Hansi, great coach and great person!

You played a season with the wiha Panthers Villingen-Schwenningen (Germany-ProA) averaging 10.4ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 77.2%. This was your break through season in the Pro A. How important was this season playing for Alen Velcic? He had 100% trust in you?

It was a very important season for me being my first year in Pro a. I saw that I can compete on this level. And the trust I felt from coach Alen was the main reason I went there, and I am very thankful for the opportunity and trust from him. Great and special guy! Unfortunately the season ended earlier because of covid, I think we had a really good chance to make the playoffs and be a kind of “dark horse” team, since we really got rolling at the end.

You began your career with Berlin Sud (Germany-NBBL) and also played with DBV Charlottenburg 2. Do you remember having a mentor in this time?

I would say Christian Steinberg was my biggest mentor in my early days. He pushed me a lot in my younger years making me catch up all the other guys who were playing much longer than me. We still talk to each other on a regular basis and work out in the summers when I am in Berlin.

You then played 4 years with the EWE baskets Oldenburg playing 50 BBL games as well as Eurocup and BCL. How valuable were these years in your basketball development?

Very important. I got used to such a high level of basketball just from practicing with the BBL. And of course getting the chance to play BBL and european competition helped me a lot in my development as a player. Also in my 3rd and 4th year I had the chance to have individual practice with Elvir Ovcina. He helped me so much in developing my game and was like a father figure for us young guys. I am really thankful for meeting him.

You were teammates with some great bigs like Brian Qvale, Dirk Madrich and Rashid Mahalbasic just to name a few. Which player had the biggest impact on you?

All of them were great players and I was able to learn a lot from everyone of them. But the biggest impact was for sure from Rasid Mahalbasic. He made everything look so easy. He reminded me so much of Jokic, especially with his passing skills.

You were also teammates with the legend Ricky Paulding. What was your fondest moment with him?

I can’t really pick one moment. He was just a great guy. He cheered me up when I made a mistake, he was celebrating when I did something good and many more things. I think I don’t have one negative memory about him. Just a great player, person and leader.

You had many great games with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg including 13 points against Hapoel Holon winning 87-86. What memories do you have of that game playing against ex NBA guys like Glen Rice Jr, or Joe Alexander?

Good memories looking back to that game. Rasid Mahalbasic was out for that game so I knew I will get minutes. Offensively everything worked out and gave me confidence. Playing against those guys you could really see what kind of quality they had. You had the feeling they are not even trying 100% and where still able to make a big impact on the court.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

Yabusele when I played against him with the U20 Croatian National team. Back then he was already a physical monster. And Hartenstein playing him in Pro B, he was so young back then and already the best player artland had.

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

Haris Hujic, Lucien Schmikale, JJ Mann, Joanic Grüttner-Bacoul, Dennis Heinzmann

Tough to just pick 5, there have been so many great teammates throughout my career.

Please list your personal NBA and Euroleague Mount Rushmore (5 best of all-time)

Euroleague: Printezis, Spanoulis, Navarro, Hines, Llull

NBA: Magic, Jordan, Lebron, Duncan, Kareem

Who is your GOAT?

Jesus Christ

Thanks Marco for the chat.

Even When Coaches Tried To Discourage Michael Laeky From Taking Three´s He Kept Working On It Behind The Scenes

Michael Laeky (201-F, college: CCC) is a 201cm forward from Texas that is a professional basketball player. He played his rookie season overseas with US Titans Yerevan (Armenia-A-League) averaging 11.5ppg, 8.3rpg, 2.0apg, 2FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 60.0%, in Feb.’25 moved to Lusavan (Armenia-A-League) averaging 18.6ppg, 7.8rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 83.3%. He began his basketball career with Creating Young Minds Academy and then played at Sterling (NAIA) and Central Christian College (NAIA). He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball

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

Thank you for the interview! I’m currently back in my hometown Dallas, Texas, basketball this summer has been great. I’ve really been pushing myself in the gym and weight room to have a great second year.

How blessed are you to be a pro baller? You never averaged more than 2,0ppg in a NAIA season, but still got 2 jobs overseas last year?

I’m truly blessed beyond measure. In college I never really got the opportunity to show what I was capable of as a player, and once I got that opportunity as a pro I never looked back.

How tough does the grind of having a stable overseas career continue? You had a solid rookie season in Armenia, but are still unsigned for the 2025-2026 season. Why do you believe is that?

In sports there’s a lot of politics and I just try to control the things that I can control, and whoever decides to take a chance on me this season won’t regret it.

Do you feel your history of being an NAIA player and not have overwhelming stats have hurt you this off season?

I think it might have hurt me when I was first coming out of college, but now that I’ve proven I can play at the professional level it’s starting to become more irrelevant.

How key has Bayi Handy been in helping you progress in your overseas journey?

He’s been absolutely amazing! He’s very confident that I have the tools to be a successful player and now I have to continue to show that. I’m truly grateful for Mr. Handy and can’t wait to see what opportunities will come from his event!

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

There’s a lot of players that come to mind, but I think my best comparison would be Cameron Johnson of the Denver Nuggets. Like him I’m a 3 point shooter with great size that can also play great defense and rebound.

You’re a player that fills the stat sheet very well. How big is versatility a part of your game?

Versatility is a big part of my game. Before being a versatile player was popular, I always tried to expand my game when I was a younger player. Because of that I’m able to play the 2-4 on the court and be a really nice asset for my team.

You are a very good three point shooter. How would you describe the development of your three pointer? You shot 40% in Armenia last season?

I’ve always worked on my 3 point shot since I was a kid. When I was younger coaches would try and keep me from shooting threes, this was before the game changed into players taking a lot of threes. But I would continue to work on my shot behind the scenes and would become a great 3 point shooter.

Talk a little about your defensive game. Does your versatility also play a role as a defensive player?

Oh absolutely! The same way I didn’t want to be limited as an offensive player also applied to the defensive end. I can play the 2-4 and I’m also able to guard the 2-4. I love hitting shots but getting stops on defense makes me just as happy.

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

I’m definitely trying to become a better ball handler. Once people know I can shoot the ball I want to be able to have a counter when they press up by creating my own shot or creating opportunities for my teammates.

Last season you split time in Armenia with US Titans Yerevan (Armenia-A-League) averaging 11.5ppg, 8.3rpg, 2.0apg, 2FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 60.0%, in Feb.’25 moved to Lusavan (Armenia-A-League) averaging 18.6ppg, 7.8rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 83.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I would definitely say physicality. The referees over there let players play for the most part and aren’t quick to blow that whistle

What kind of experience was Armenia on and off the court? How did your game grow overseas?

Armenia was great and I’m forever grateful that they gave me an opportunity to start my career. I would say I grew as a player when it came to taking over games. I’ve always believed I’m the best shooter on every court I step on and I was able to show it this past season.

How enriching was it experiencing a new culture in Armenia? What did you enjoy most off the court?

It was such a great experience connecting with some of the locals over there. It was my first time outside the USA so it was a cool experience learning and being around their culture. My favorite thing to do off the court was definitely walking around the city and doing some sight seeing.

You played 3 seasons at Sterling College (NAIA) and played only 21 games. How tough were these 2 seasons? Did you get a fair chance there?

Those were some really tough years, to sit there and watch loss after loss and not get a fair shot to prove myself was definitely hard. But I always trusted God’s plan and his timing with everything and that’s why I’m here today.

What positives could you gain from Sterling? You minutes really fluctuated in your last season.

I learned to just control what I can control and to always stay ready. And in those games I got a shot and I showed what I could do.

You then played 1 season at Central Christian College (NAIA). What positives could you get from this season despite playing only 2 games?

That was a difficult year for me too and probably not the best fit for me, I had intended to redshirt that year. I would say I definitely became a better teammate that year.

How did head coach Adam Hooker groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

I had coaches outside of college that really helped prepare me for a pro career, I always was around pro guys in college so training and playing against them definitely helped prepare me.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jahmiah Haynes?

Jamiah is a great player and easily one of the best players I’ve ever played with. We never played one on one but we had some great battles in practice when we were matched up in five on five.

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

I played against a lot of great players in college, a lot of players that went overseas but not the NBA. However in high school I did play against Terrence Ferguson who ended up being a first round draft pick in the 2017 NBA draft.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

This is such a tough question because I’ve played with so many great players. But if I had to narrow it to 5 these would be the players. In no order, Jaylon Scott, Jamiah Haynes, Moustapha Diene, Adam Hess, and Chris Whitten

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Bill Russell

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James is without a doubt the Goat.

Thanks Michael for the chat.

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