When your young you usually want to do everything your own way. And when your mother creeps in from behind and tells you elsewise about something that she feels against with all her heart, one usually counters with the phrase ‘oh come on mom, it’s not like that at all. She’s a nice girl or Ronny is a good dude’. There are countless examples and one could be talking about it all day. A great example is from the classic American family show Brady Bunch where mother says ‘Don’t play ball in the house’ and son Bobby breaks mom’s favorite vase. As usual Mama was right. Often later in life when you are more experienced and mature about life matters, one realizes that mom was right back in the day. Ok so professional hooper Jeremiah Hill (188-G-1995, college: Valdosta St.) is still a young man at age 26, but when he recently received a phone call from his mom in the wee hours of the night, he didn’t hesitate or give any flak, but took the advice of his mother and took action instead of starting a long discussion that he probably wouldn’t have won. There were countless Americans playing in the Ukraine that had to find a way to leave before war broke out there. But there was also another side to the picture. What must it have been like for Americans who were under contract to a Russian team? Jeremiah Hill who often gets the Steph Curry comparisons regarding his game played for VTB league team Parma Basket Perm as war was slowly approaching in the Ukraine. They were having a pretty solid season and on playoff course. The American also was continuing to show why consistency has to be a second middle name as he belonged to the top point guards in the VTB. But then came that deciding phone call from his mama that would change his season. ‘I was sitting at home a day after practice about 2 am when my mom called and said I need to leave immediately because our government put out some warning that said we needed to leave. Then I talked to my agent and he suggested we leave until it settles down, so I packed everything I had and left by 7:25 that morning. I really did not even have time to process it all’, remembered Jeremiah Hill.

The American who played the last two seasons with BK Astana (Kazakhstan-National League) and led the VTB in assists last season in a league that also showcased top Euroleague and ex NBA player Mike James was having a solid season and just living life as best as he could in Russia. He is a guy that has seen a lot in his young life having played at two schools Savannah State and Valdosta State and also played in the ABA, G-League and in Kazakhstan. Being in Russia was just another stop on his basketball journey. War broke out in the Ukraine on Feb 24th and ever since, it has been no secret that reports coming in from many sides have explained that the Russian folk don’t even know what is really going on in the Ukraine. The American definitely got a feeling of that already before war had broke out. ‘At first we heard very little about it and thought that it would blow over, that it would not really happen. Then when things got to get more serious most of the news I was receiving was from my family and friends back home’, stated Jeremiah Hill. It is very sad when your own mother that is thousands miles away has to tell you what is really going on because the news outlets in Russia are controlled. You have to wonder how life must have been 30 years ago before the internet? Thank God for the internet in 2022. ‘I would not say blinded by propaganda but more likely kept in the dark about what was actually happening. I cannot myself speak Russian so it was not much help to watch the news because I could not understand but my teammates were finding out stuff more so from the internet rather than the news’, commented Jeremiah Hill.

It is always a blessing for that American rookie going to a foreign country and having some American vets as teammates. It is even harder when your balling in a small town where there is no English spoken and no Mcdonalds. But how tough must it be being the lone American on a Russian club that is about to go to war? For Hill who lists NBA player Delon Wright as his toughest cover in school, he had to make the best of the situation. Lucky for him was that he wasn’t a rookie anymore. Also he had lived the last two seasons in Kazakhstan and been to Russia numerous times on basketball trips. Anybody would have understood his need to go into a situation like that ‘Being the only American definitely did make it a little different in trying to get some of the guys to understand the urgency of me leaving but I hope they understood. I did not talk to other guys until after I had gotten back to the states’, remembered Jeremiah Hill. But all is all, his six months in Russia were definitely a time he won’t forget. ‘It has been a pretty wild ride being overseas since continuous things seem to be happening every year but life in Perm was not bad at all. Most of the time it was just regular everyday life. When you are sharing a journey that everyone around you is going through you kind of look for the positives rather than the negatives because it makes it easier to deal with. Although at times is could get hard it was not to much of an issue’, expressed Jeremiah Hill. When looking back at his time with Perm, he will never forget that his teammates had his back on the court, but also always off the court. As the lone American on the team, you have to reach out to each other in tough times. ‘Nothing changed for us in the city or the locker room to me unless I was just oblivious. I had a bunch of good guys around me that made sure they expressed they would help me if things escalated to a point where I would need it. They were really confused and upset by the whole thing and were against it from what I could tell’, remembered Jeremiah Hill.

The Richmond Hill Georgia native who has Jordan, Lebron, Kobe and Steph Curry on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore played his last official VTB game for Parma on Feb 13 beating Kalev/Cramo netting 13 points and last official game for the team on Feb 15th at home in the Fiba Europe Cup losing against Legia. Just packing up and departing for reasons beyond his control weren’t easy. ‘We had a ton of potential to do some great things this season maybe even something unthought of. Now it will always be a what if so to say but life goes on and we will just have to find a way to remember the good of the year’, stressed Jeremiah Hill. In the Ukraine, it was tough for some players to get out of their contracts. But for Hill, he was able to go back home without any bad memories about club management. ‘It was a really strange situation but we ended up reaching an agreement and separated from the contract allowing me to go elsewhere. All of the foreigners left and I believe will stay gone’, warned Jeremiah Hill. At the same time he was also keeping an eye on the situation in the Ukraine with his fellow American players. ‘I did know one player and I talked to him a little bit as it got really more serious. By then he had already gotten himself and his family home and was safe. I would assume that it was really stressful for them so I’m just glad they are okay’, said Jeremiah Hill.

The guard who was teammates with current Chicago Bull Malcolm Hill returned back home to be with friends and family and especially his mama. But his stay at home wasn’t long. He got that itch to play again and with the help of agency Power Sports got another gig. This time in a safer place in France with BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral (France-Betclic ELITE ProA). The club is battling for a playoff spot and he feels right at home. He has been starting games and is teammates with ex NBA players Ray Mccallum and John Jenkins. Plus he has needed no adjustment period as he is putting up solid stats in 4 games averaging 13.3ppg, 4.5rpg, 4.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 80.0%. Players in general know how much of a blessing it is to find a new job, because there are so many guys jobless as finding a new opportunity is never easy especially in Covid times. But those blessings are raised even more especially after his experience in Russia. ‘Basketball has always been how I have dealt with anything ever. In times like this is when I learn more how to realize the blessings I personally have been given both with the game and my family’, added Jeremiah Hill. He will never forget the last months even if he wasn’t Live in war torn Ukraine or took notice to so much suffering on TV. ‘Honestly, ever since the war we had with Iraq, I do my best to stay away from looking at the bad things going on in the war because some of those things will scar you for life. I really have not seen much of it just heard about some bombings’, remembered Jeremiah Hill. Even if he is still a young man, he knows never to doubt what mama says. She always knows best.

Stefan Jankovic (211-C-1993, college: Hawaii, agency: Slash Sports)s a 28 year old 211cm center from Canada that is playing his sixth professional season and first with the Taishin Dreamers (Taiwan-PLeague+). He began the season with Tmoki-Minsk (VTB League). In his first 5 professional seasons he has gathered a lot of experience in countries like Serbia, Greece and Turkey. He also played in Europe’s top league Euroleague with Crvena Zvezda MTS Beograd (Serbia-KLS). He also played in the G-League with Sioux Falls Skyforce and the Capital City Go Go. He played 86 NCAA games for the University Of Missouri and the University of Hawaii (NCAA) and as a senior averaged 15.7ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 76.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career when he was playing with Tmoki-Minsk.

Stefan thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. You have achieved so much for age 28 playing in the NCAA, NBA, and Euroleague. Do you think that if their hadn’t been a basketball court and had you not moved to that Serbian basketball community at a young age, you might never have become a professional basketball player?

I mean I think I would still be involved in basketball simply because I was always tall growing up and being from Serbia basketball is one of our biggest sports.

Your playing your sixth professional season and first with Tsmoki-Minsk (Belarus-Premier League). You have played in many countries like Italy, Serbia, Greece and Turkey. What kind of an experience has it been playing here and how realistic is a title in the Fiba Europe Cup.

It’s been great so far and I definitely think we have a chance to make some noise in the fiba eurocup this year

You have had a unique career and so has your teammate Darol-Hernadez-Zinenko. What kind of an experience has it been playing with the guy who is called the Russian?

We all call him Daro and it’s been good I think we compliment each other at the 4/5.

Last season you split time with KK Partizan NiS Beograd (Serbia-KLS) and Bahcesehir Koleji Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) averaging 6.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 72.7%. You have split time with 2 teams a few times in your career. How tough was that season after you came off an injury?

Last year was definitely one of the more tougher seasons especially my time at Partizan not really playing at all and then finally finding a spot near the end of the season in Turkey and trying to finish the season strong but I definitely need a season where I can put together some continuity.

In 2019-2020 you split time with AEK Athens (Greece-A1) averaging 6.9ppg, 2.7rpg, 2FGP: 50.0%, 3FGP: 38.5%, FT: 76.5%; and played with Capital City Go-Go (NBA G League) averaging 5.0ppg, 2.6rpg. In Greece you played with one of the best Euroleague players in the last 15 years with Keith Langford. What will you never forget from him as a player and person?

Keith was probably the best scorer I played with in Europe so far, that guy was a bucket and a great guy as well, good vet to be around.

After being in Europe for two years you returned back to the G-League. How do you feel had your game grown overseas in the time between your two G-League stints?

I definitely feel like I improved being overseas, especially with my understanding of the game but my second stint in the G league was cut short due to Covid.

In the 2018-2019 season you played for BC Partizan NiS Beograd (Serbia-KLS) averaging 6.8ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 63.2% and averaged 6.1ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 48.7%, FT: 70.4%; Eurocup: 13 games: 4.9ppg, 2.8rpg in the Adriatic League. What memories do you have battling your ex team Crvena Zvezda MTS Beograd and losing a brutal playoff series?

That was a tough year as well, went through some coaching changes and the transfer from Red Star to Partizan but I mean it was still a good year and a great battle with some of my former teammates in the red star but ultimately they had a better team at that moment.

In the 2017-2018 season you played with Crvena Zvezda MTS Beograd (Serbia-KLS) averaging 7.9ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 68.9%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 56.5%; and averaging 3.8ppg, 2.5rpg in the Euroleague. What do you remember being your wake up call coming from many years in the States to playing your first season overseas?

That was definitely my most difficult year of basketball because of the crazy transition from going to playing in the states to playing in the Euroleague but at the same time I really enjoyed being back home that year after a long time being in the states and Canada.

You played twice against Real Madrid splitting and saw Luka Doncic put up 20 and 24 points. Everoyne knew he was good then, but did you think then that he would dominate the NBA the way he has?

I mean I don’t think anyone knew he would be dominating the NBA this fast but you could see then that his talent was unbelievable and the way he made the game look that easy and that young of an age you knew he was going to be special.

You were teammates with Pero Antic. What do you remember from your battles with him in practice. How did your game profit from his presence?

Pero was a euroleague legend, and to have him as my vet in my first year was huge, I definitely learned a lot of stuff from him on the court and off as well.

You played your rookie season with the Sioux Falls Skyforce (D-League) and the Erie Bay Hawks (D-League) averaging 13.6ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 81.5. You had some very good games that season and proved you could play with former and future NBA players. You put up pretty good stats for 24 minutes. Had you played 33-34 minutes you probably would have landed in the NBA. Do you agree with that notion?

I mean honestly who knows, I think that rookie year was unlucky for me in all because I got injured during training camp with the Heat and then broke my hand after 3 games in the G league.

Before you played your rookie season you played NBA Summer League with the Miami Heat. Did you notice then how tough it is in general for bigs to present their game when the league is dominated by guards?

Definitely , especially in the G league but I mean you still have to find a way to involve yourself.

In 2017 you played one more time in the NBA Summer League with the Orlando Magic. The NBA dream never ends. Were you disappointed by how your experience went in the G-League and NBA dream?

You could say so, I injured myself in that summer league as well and so I wouldn’t say I gave myself a fair shot but life goes on and it is what it is I can only focus on the present.

In high school you once recorded an amazing quadruple double of 18 points, 12 rebounds, 10 assists, and 10 blocks. What memories do you have of that game? Did this game open doors for you and put scouts on your radar?

At that point I was playing the small forward in high school so I was all over the place but I think that was my junior year and I had already really been on the radar throughout my high school career but still was something special.

You began at the University of Missouri (NCAA) but transferred to University of Hawaii. You left Missouri with no hard feelings seeking a better fit. What positives do you believe could you get out of your time there?

I was there with a bunch of NBA guys and euro pros so that prepared me for the next level especially being my first year in college.

At Hawaii you had two good seasons and made a big jump as a senior. How did head coach Eran Ganot groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Being at Hawaii gave me an opportunity to showcase all my skills and really show all the development I had been working on throughout the college years.

Was reaching the NCAA tournament in 2016 your biggest achievement in the NCAA? What memories do you have of the big win vs California and the loss against Maryland?

That whole year was just a movie and especially that tournament mini run we had. It was a special year and special group of guys.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Stefan Jovanovic?

Me everytime

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

Jaylen Brown, or Buddie Hield

Who were your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Andrew Wiggins, Goran Dragic, Jordan Clarkson, Robert Upshaw since he’s right next to me and in Europe either Keith Langford or Eric Green.

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

Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal

Will Luka Doncic one day be the greatest player in the NBA?

Possibly

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

I didn’t honestly

Thanks Stefan for the chat.

Richmond Aririguzoh (206-C-1998, college: Princeton) is a 23 year old 206cm forward from Nigeria that is playing his second professional season and first in Germany with the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. He played his rookie season with Horsens IC (Denmark-BasketLigaen) playing 31 games avergaing 10.6ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 80.0%. He began his basketball career with Trenton Catholic Academy an dthen played at Princeton University (NCAA) from 2016-2020 playing a total of 96 NCAA games. In his last two seasons he averaged 12.1ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 69.7%, FT: 75.8% and 12.0ppg, 7.4rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 62.0%, FT: 65.4%. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.

Thanks Richmond for talking to eurobasket.com. Your playing your second professional season and first in Germany with the Hakro Merlins. It has been a magical season with the Fiba Europe Cup run and playing for the playoffs. Can a mood swing 180 degrees when you MVP candidate TJ Shorts gets injured?

First and foremost, we all hope and pray for a speedy recovery for TJ. As long as it concerns the team and our goals moving forward, losing him for the rest of the season is definitely a big blow, especially as we have rallied behind him time and time again. However, all of us on the team can acknowledge that but also remain focused on the task ahead of making the BBL playoffs.

How is the team mentality at the moment. TJ Shorts is without a doubt the guy that carries the club. How is the mood in the team? The club has some real veterans with Harris, Stuckey and Radosavljevic.

That veteran leadership is going to be crucial for us in this last stretch of the season. They know we have a job to do and we’re going to follow their lead

Could it be beneficial as opponents mentality may turn and possibly not take the team as seriously knowing that TJ Shorts is out?

I would never say that an injury is beneficial. I also think teams in this league know that each team has quality players and overlooking any opponent for any reason could easily cost you games. We’re not expecting teams to ‘ease up’ when they’re about to play us.

The Hakro Merlins had a great Fiba Europe Cup run. You had some good games against Antwerp and Leiden. What did you enjoy the most about the competition?

I think being in so many different countries was definitely one of the highlights of playing in the Fiba Europe Cup. Playing against different teams whose styles can differ a lot from what we’re used to seeing in the BBL was also pretty interesting. Being able to get to the quarterfinals with this club, who cherished playing in its first European competition, was enjoyable

How tough has it been for you coming from getting good minutes the last three years to getting only 11-12 minutes this season. Has it been like starting over a bit. What has been the biggest challenge for sitting more?

I knew my role was going to be different when I agreed to come to Crailsheim. I would not say it has been like starting over or there has been a particular challenge to sitting more. For me, it has been about finding a good rhythm and excelling in those minutes.

Let’s talk a bit about your game. You’re a 206cm center. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I haven’t given much thought to NBA player comparisons. These days I try to be the best version of Richmond Aririguzoh, as opposed to modeling my game after someone else.

You’re a guy that can score and rebound. What other aspects does your game incorporate that allows you to be successful?

My calling card this year has definitely been my defense, both individually and team wise. I’ve been able to adjust to the higher caliber of talent and be effective guarding 1on1 and anchoring our defense.

Last season in Denmark you had some games with 3 blocks and a game with 5 blocks. Your first 3 block game came last week against Wurzburg. How have you seen your defensive development since you turned pro? What kind of defender do you still want to become?

Since I’ve turned pro I’ve had to become both a smarter defender and a more athletic defender. The game can be so cerebral at times so I’ve had to learn (and I’m still learning) to be a step ahead to make the right play. I’ve also had to work on my athleticism to be able to get some of those blocks or guard smaller players for stints.

On what area of your game are you working on most now so that you can continue to climb the basketball ladder?

Probably my basketball IQ

You played your rookie season with Horsens IC (Denmark-BasketLigaen) playing 31 games averaging 10.6ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 80.0%. What do you remember being your wake up call where you knew that you were very far away from home?

Spending my Christmas away from my family was probably the earliest reminder that I was so far away.

Last season in Denmark you reached two finals. How important was it for your game playing two long playoffs series against Randers and Bakken?

It was huge. I’ve never played in a drawn out playoff format so it was definitely a great introduction for me. Another reminder of how hard it is to win.

You have had many great games in your career but where do you rank that 27 point game against Randers? You were 10/10 from the field and made the only three you ever took since starting at Princeton in 2016.

That game is up there for sure, especially because we were tied in that series and we needed that win on our home floor. To be able to play well and get the win in a meaningful game like that is always special.

You played 95 NCAA games for Princeton. Was winning the 2017 Ivy league title your biggest achievement there?

I would say so. Even though I was just a freshman, I really enjoyed that year and that run. It was a really cool introduction to college basketball.

In your first two seasons there was ex NBA player Kerry Kittles was an assistant coach. What memories do you have of him there and what kind of a role did he play for the success?

Having a former NBA pro on your coaching staff is a surreal experience. I remember him being really supportive and encouraging of our individual growth skill-wise. He brought a ton of knowledge and gems about what he thought the most important qualities for making it to the next level were.

In your junior year you lost by 51 points to Duke (NCAA). What memories do you have of playing against Zion Williamson. Was he in beast mode?

haha, I don’t like to think too much about that game but Zion was definitely incredible even up close. The most noticeable thing that I remember is the physicality that he played with.

Against ASU you hauled down 18 rebounds. What does it mean to you getting the second most rebounds in 44 years in school history?

It’s a bit bittersweet because we ended up losing that game on a last second three pointer, but I’m obviously proud of that achievement.

How did head coach Mitch Henderson groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

The tough non-conference schedule was probably the best gift he could give us to prepare us for a potential professional career. Playing against future pros from power 5 conference schools was a solid test to see where I was at as a player.

Who wins a one on one in practice you or Bogdan Radosavljevic?

haha, no clue. Hasn’t happened yet.

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

Zion Williamson is the easy answer. Aside from him I would probably say Chimezie Metu, who’s now with the Sacramento Kings. I played him my sophomore year when he was at the University of Southern California.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Ok, disclaimer: I’m going to include names from high school up until last year in Denmark. My list doesn’t really have to do with talent but more with leadership, competitiveness, unselfishness, etc.
Myles Powell (Trenton Catholic Academy); Amir Bell, Devin Cannady, and Charlie Bagin (Princeton); Charles Callison (Horsens IC).

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

In no particular order: Kareem, Bill Russell, MJ, and LeBron

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

I think it’s a fun debate to have with your friends and teammates but outside of that, it doesn’t really make sense to compare the two to try to find a definitive GOAT. I would rather just appreciate both and their own greatness

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

I saw it last season while I was in Denmark. The first one was played religiously in my household when I was growing up so I can see why people thought a sequel shouldn’t have happened. To me, the sequel wasn’t too bad.

Thanks Richmond for the chat.

John Murry (192-G-1995, college: Austin Peay) is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Indianapolis, Indiana that is playing his third professional season in Germany with BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga). Before that he had experience with the Kitchener-Waterloo Titans. He played two years at Owens Community College playing 63 games and two years at Austin Peay State University (NCAA) playing 56 NCAA games and as a senior averaged 16.7ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 81.1%. He and Miles Schmidt-Scheuber talk weekly about basketball.

Congrats on the huge 112-88 victory over the Lowen. How good did it feel getting revenge and splitting the season series?

It felt good, we played well together for our last home game and pulled out a win.

After winning two, you lost last weekend to Leverkusen and now won again. Now the team can win after losing one game instead of letting a big losing streak go. What has changed in the team mentality?

The consistency of people just being in rotation on gameday makes a big difference, when we have more then 5-7 guys healthy and ready to play we are a tough team to beat

Talk a little about the 40 minutes. Was there anytime where you were in danger of losing the game? What was the strongest phase of the game?

I felt we were in the drivers seat the entire game, we came out ready to play hard and hit shots. We took care of the ball and kept our foot on the gas for 40 minutes.

Grevenbroich did a lot well, but would it be fair to say that the turnovers was the only real flaw?

Turnovers is the name of the game for us all season, we have to take care of the ball in order to give ourselves a chance to win at the end.

Grevenbroich had 5 guys score in double figures. Was this the best team performance of the season?

It was definitely one of our best games as a team and it showed on the stat sheet.

You had another good game with 30/3/7/3/1 stats. You shot the ball well. Was this almost a perfect game for you?

I don’t think I could ever have a perfect game because of the high standard I’ve set for myself, I always feel I can improve no matter what.

Dzemal Selimovic had a great game with 28/18 stats. Is he the teams second MVP this season?

Yes most definitely the big fellow has delivered well for us this season
His presence is on the floor is valued greatly by our team.

You next play Herford. You beat them the first time in a shoot out. What will be key for getting the win?

If we take care of the ball, and make our shots
I believe we will come out with a win.

Herford is the last game of the season. Are you in a way happy the season is ending? I can imagine you could play another month?

I most definitely would rather be getting ready for playoffs at this time in the year but at the same time, I get to get a head start on recovery and off season preparation for next season.

Thanks John for the chat.

T

Julius Zurna (188-PG-1986) is a 35 year old 188cm guard from Lithuania playing his 10th professional season in Germany and fourth in Limburg with the Bona Baskets. In Germany, he also played for Aschersleben, Schwenningen,Bernau, Koblenz and Idtsein. He began his career in his native Lithuania before coming to Germany. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the tough 83-65 loss to MTV Kronberg where he led his team with 18 points.

Thanks Julius for talking to germanhoops.com You suffered a tough 83-65 loss to MTV Kronberg. Before the loss the team had a three game winning streak. What was the team doing better in this stretch?

This season we have had a lot of bad luck with Covid and cancelations of games. We usually had a small rotation of 5-6 guys. We have had trouble bringing intensity in the second half. We get tired. We had more consistency in the last weeks with guys back. Usually teams play better at the end of the season. We have a good starting five, but just didn’t click as a team. We want to finish the season strong a build a core for next season. Kronberg have played together many years and it shows.

MTV Kronberg had the slim 23-19 advantage after 10 minutes. What was the difference?

They are a very good shooting team and hit many three’s. We lacked contact. We had good defense at times, but they hit many shots in their faces.

The guests ran away with the game with a 32-13 second quarter. They nailed 8 three’s. Why couldn’t Limburg guard the three point line better?

We made tactical mistakes. We kept the zone locked. Our big wasn’t a good match up. They play 5-0 on the three point line and we got killed.

MTV Kronberg continued to dominate in the third quarter winning it 29-16. Why couldn’t Limburg get over the hump?

We tried a press but it didn’t work. When your down 20 plus points, you need energy. We didn’t have that.

The Bona Baskets Limburg had a strong fourth quarter winning it 17-4. Why couldn’t Limburg play like that in the second and third quarters?

When you have a big lead, you usually sub in guys that don’t usually play many minutes. They relaxed a bit. But that is normal even in higher leagues.

Your playing your fourth season with the Bona Baskets Limburg. What makes it so special to come back?

I live here. I came here as a professional player, got a job and met a special woman. I work for a company called Harmonic Drive. We produce moving parts for robots. Limburg is my home. I will play here for as long as my body allows me to. I want to play a few more years.

Your playing a solid season, but how difficult is it not being that real main guy when you have guys like Justin Stallbohm, KJ Sherril, Noah Westerhaus and Matej kljaic?

I came back with the idea of getting faster into shape, but that didn’t happen. I didn’t do anything during the lock down to stay in shape. I’m not 18 anymore. I’m just a help this season and don’t count myself as a main guy. If I can get into top shape this summer, then I would like to include myself as a main guy next season.

Your playing your 10th season in Germany. Why didn’t you leave Germany ever again?

I’m from Lithuania When I left in 2012, times were different. It is better now. But back then you never knew if you would get your money on time or even at all. In Germany everything is safe regulated. I never had a problem with getting my money here. Early in my time in Germany, I had the chance to go to Italy, but then I met my girl and I decided to play it safe and stay here.

What is your role on the team this season? To keep the main scorers happy with your playmaking?

I’m a help to bring calmness, a bit more organization and give advice to the young players. I don’t need to be that leader this season. My body didn’t allow me to. But next year, I definitely want to have that leadership role again and have that first option as a playmaker again and help out Matej kljaic.

You haven’t been that big scorer the last three seasons. Has that bothered you?

No it hasn’t. When I went to Koblenz, they had ambitions to move up and had high level players. They had many scorers and I didn’t need to do that. In Idstein, I played only a few games before the team went bankrupt. This season I came back to Limburg not having played in 1.5 years, got injured and had corona.

What do you feel is your biggest strength on the court at age 35 besides your experience?

My role is pretty much the same. I have always been known for being a shooter and playing the pick and roll well. I haven’t been shooting the ball as well this season. There are some factors like, my legs and a lack of confidence. I may not be the fastest, but I’m one of the smarter guys on the court.

In 2015-2016 you played for the wiha Panthers Schwenningen and Alen Velcic. If someone had told you then that a few years later they would be in the Pro A would you have believed it?

I would of believed it. When I got there, I was surprised how well everything was organized. They had everything from flats, cars to open gym. They even had opportunities for work. They had a big ambition to move up. I probably would have stayed if I had not had a personal disagreement with Alen. He is a big guy there and has the sponsors on his side. He is 80% of the team. If you have a disagreement, you won’t have a chance to stay. I’m no Milos Teodosic. But in the end all played out well. I moved on.

You played two seasons with BC Aschersleben where you averaged 20 and 22 points per game. Was that your most successful time as a player in terms of stats?

Yes for scoring that was my best season. I was really motivated then to make the next jump as a player. I was a professional and didn’t work. I was in the gym two times a day and could practice as much as I wanted and was really focused on the game. I had the green light in Aschersleben. In Schwenningen I was able to develop more as a point guard. They had 6-7 really good scorers. I can remember making 6-7 mistakes in a game, but Alen still gave me all freedom at the end of the game. I became more mature as a combo guard in Schwenningen.

You had many great games in the Regionalliga like netting 36 points against Bremerhaven or exploding for 33 points against Fellbach. What is your most memorable game in the Regionalliga?

My most memorable game was with Schwenningen. It was against Stuttgart. I remember having a horrible first half. I had something like 6 turnovers. Coach Alen didn’t put me down after that first half, but instead believed in me and still gave me a chance to play my game in the second half. In the last seconds, we got a three in the face and we took a time out with 3, 2 seconds to play. He asked us who wanted to take the last shot and nobody said anything. Everything was quiet. Finally I said I would take the last shot. Coach drew up a good play for me. I made the shot and remember the fans going crazy.

You played against so many great players in Lithuania early in your career. What do you remember playing against NCAA champion and ex Chicago Bull Khalid El Amin?

Back in the day I was a big fan of Michael Jordan and Reggie Miller. I remember Khalid being a very stocky player. But It wasn’t so much him who I remember, but actually Sonny Weems. He was so amazing. I will never forget his incredible alley-oop dunks. My head was where his knees were. I played against him and a few days later I would watch him playing a Euroleague game. Knowing you played against a guy like him a few days earlier really motivated you for the next game.

You played against a very young Jonas Valanciunas in Lithuania. Did you think then that he would reach the NBA?

No never. He was so skinny then. I had no idea that he would become such a big star. He developed so much in 1-2 years. I would of thought he could reach the Eurocup or Euroleague, but not the NBA. I played against so many guys where I would never have thought they would have reached the NBA. One guy I will never forget is Dejuan Collins. He wasn’t the biggest athlete, but so smart. He was also a great organizer. He could beat you with one step and hold you with his body. He was very hard to defend. Another guy I will never forget who I played against was Marcus Brown. He was such an amazing shooter. I remember his team played in an old gym. I remember asking our coach to have practice early so we could drive the two hours to Kaunus to watch him play. We got there and watched Marcus Brown and his pre-game shooting practice. The guy hit 49 three’s in a row. There were 5,000 fans and they loved it. At around his 15th three, the fans began shouting loud 15, 16, 17 and it kept going until he made his 49th in a row. All were disappointed when he didn’t make 50. That game he hit for 30. He made such a big impression on me. I remember him hitting a few in your face three’s on me. What could I do? He is the best shooter that I ever saw.

Who wins a one on one in practice you or Justin Stallbohm?

Two years ago, I would kick his butt. Now it would be about 50/50. If I come back in decent shape next season, I will kick his butt again.

Recently American Jonathan Braeger scored 100 points in a Regionalliga game. There was a lot of criticism for the game because Wurzburg had to play with 5 players and only had 3 in the second half and played no defense. The player received a lot of hate for his game. What is your take on it?

I didn’t see the stats. If there is no defense, then it is like a practice. I give him no hate. You still need to play. Anyone would of played. If he did that in a 5-5 game then it would be amazing.

What was the last movie that you saw?

I love movies. But when you have a kid, work and play basketball and want to keep a good relation with your wife, you just don’t have a lot of time. But the last movie I saw was the Witcher.

Thanks Julius for the chat.

Brekkott Chapman (206-F/C-1996, college: Weber St.) is a 25 year old 206cm power forward/center from Troy, Utah playing his third professional season and first with the MLP Academics Heidelberg. He played his first two professional seasons with s.Oliver Wurzburg where injuries plagued him as he played only 20 games and last season averaged 10.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 85.0%. He began his basketball career at Roy high school. He then played at the University of Utah from 2014-2016 playing 71 NCAA games and averaging 5.7ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 44.2%, FT: 76.4% and 4.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.0apg. he then finished at Weber State playing 60 NCAA games and averaging 10.8ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 47.7%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 75.0% and as a senior averaged 12.5ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.9apg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 43.6%, FT: 74.0%. He spoke to eurobasket after the win over the Fraport Skyliners.

Thanks Brekkott for talking to eurobasket.com. Congrats on the big 71-65 win over the Fraport Skyliners. Was it deserving for the guard trio of Geist, Lowery and Ely to get a free dinner from the teammates being that they scored more than 2/3 of the team’s points?

Oh yeh those three dudes did their job. They did a really good job containing Will Cherry. Containing him was big on our scouting report. They also hit big shots all night long.

The first quarter was a real grind out 10 minutes. Was that a typical quarter you expected for two teams near the bottom?

I knew from the start that we would be in a dog fight. Frankfurt has a lot of fighters as do we. It was a real defensive battle. I’m glad that we could keep the lead and pull out the win.

The MLP Academics Heidelberg had the 36-30 lead at the break. Frankfurt was dominating inside and Heidelberg was hitting from outside. What was key for the lead?

Jordan Geist made big shots to help us keep the lead. We had some guys struggling so his scoring was key. He carried us.

The MLP Academics held the lead in the third quarter leading 52-46. How much of a focus was slowing down Will Cherry on the scouting report?

Being able to slow him down was very important. He does a good job scoring and getting everyone involved. You can’t beat Frankfurt when you allow him to play his game.

You never allowed Frankfurt to get over the hump in the fourth quarter. What was key for getting the win?

Cherry had the ball in his hands a lot down the stretch. We continued to contain him well. We also rebounded the ball very well and forced turnovers. We also hit a few big shots that made the difference.

It’s been a really tough season for the MLP Academics. After winning 4 of the first five games, how tough has it been to have to accept so much losing?

It has been a very hard season. We knew from the start that we would surprise people. We have talented players and guys that work very hard. Our good start didn’t surprise us, but when we suffered that 9 game losing streak we lost a lot of close games. But key now is that I think that we learned form them and have been able to finish out games better recently.

How instrumental were the close loses to Bamberg, Bayreuth and Chemnitz at the start? Did that maim the team mentality?

Probably a little, but it was more subconscious. I didn’t really feel it. There was never any real negative energy. I felt like we were in every game. Only BG Goettingen got us. We always knew that we would get out of it. We have a great group of guys.

Recently in your two game win streak against MBC and Braunschwieg, the team defended a lot better averaging giving up 74 points per game, but in the last two games against Wurzburg and Hamburg it was 98 points. What did the team get away from?

I think that we lost focus defensively. We know that when we can keep teams under 80 points, then we have a high chance of winning. There weren’t many high scoring games that we won except for Crailsheim. Problems in the two games was box outs and missing assignments. When we are locked in then we are tough to beat.

The team has some tough games to go. What will be key in staying in the BBL?

We have to stay focused. We have to go game by game and not worry about anything else.

How instrumental has a guy like German Philipp Heyden been in you continuing to grow as a player?

Philipp is a great dude. He has been like a mentor for me. The most important thing he has helped me with is taking care of my body. After my tough injuries that has helped me a lot. Also Sky Ely and our strength coach has also helped me with taking care of my body.

Your playing a very good BBL season and have raised your game from last season. What strides do you feel have you taken in your game?

The biggest strides I have taken have been mentally. The last two years took a big toll on me mentally. I struggled a bit when the season started. I just didn’t have a feel for the game. Then I got more comfortable and got back to being the player I used to be. I have to give a big shout out to my mental coach Rainer who has really helped me.

You shoot the ball really well from outside. In your last two NCAA years you shot 42% and 43% from outside. What kind of an outside shooter do you want to grow into as you continue to gain experience as a professional?

I have talked a lot with my agent recently about this. I feel like I’m a lot better shooter than what I’m showing right now. A big difference was that my shot selection was a lot better in college. The defense at the pro level is better tuned into what each guy can do. I need to pick and choose a lot better. I have forced too many three’s this season. I need to be more well rounded and get to the rim easier which will open up the three ball more.

Scoring, rebounding and blocking shots are big strengths in your game, but if you had to choose the absolute biggest asset in your game what would it be?

Spreading the floor and take the big man out of the paint.

You began your NCAA career at Utah playing 71 games. You helped the team reach the second round of the NCAA tournament. You never averaged more than 5,7ppg. What positives did you get from this experience?

Being at Utah was some of the funniest times in my life. I made a lot of incredible friends. I was around 11 guys that would go pro and 3 guys that went to the NBA with Delon Wright, Jakob Poelti and Kyle Kuzma. I learned and saw how the worked on a daily basis. In the long run it helped me figure out how I wanted to play. I still work out with guys during the summer.

Was your 15 points and 7 rebounds against Arizona State one of your most memorable games at Utah?

Honestly I don’t remember the game. It was a long time ago. I have more memories of going to the Sweet 16.

Talk a little about the European connection there within the Americans with German Kenneth Ogbe and Austrian Jakob Poelti. How much of an impact did they have on the team?

He was incredible. He was a force then and is a force now. He is getting a lot of minutes now. Kenneth didn’t play much then but he is a great guy. I love him to death. I wish I could of played more with him.

You then finished at Weber State playing 60 games. How thankful are you that you transferred and how do you feel did your game grow in your last 2 NCAA seasons?

I developed my outside game there. The coaching staff helped me work on my jumper which helped me get high shooting percentages there. That time really helped me get to where I am today as a player.

You had many memorable games at Weber State, but how memorable was the 78-76 win over Central Washington where you had 6 points, 10 rebounds and 5 blocks?

That is another game I don’t remember. I remember more games at the tournament. We didn’t do as well as I wish we would of.

How did head coach Randy Rahe groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

He is a good guy. He taught us that if you work, you win. If you work hard on your own time, then you will get better. That will help you stay a step ahead of everyone else.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Zach Braxton?

I beating him. We can call him right now. He might not agree, but he knows it.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCCA or anywhere that went to the NBA?

Stanley Johnson who I had known from high school. I remember playing in Arizona. It was a tight game and he had a few points in the first half. In the second half, he totally dominated and they blew us out.

Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Delon Wright, Isaiah Wright, Dakari Tucker, Jordan Hulls, Jordan Geist

Please construct your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present players?

Lebron, Jordan, Kobe, Durant

What is your personal opinion between the never ending debate between Michael Jordan and Lebron James concerning who is the greatest of all-time?

You can’t deny MJ’s greatness, but I have to go with Lebron. His numbers and titles do it for me.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Spiderman

Thanks Brekkott for the chat.

Stanley Whittaker (183-G-1994, college: Keiser) is a 27 year old 183cm point guard from Philadelphia playing his third professional season and first in Germany with PS Karlsruhe. He played his rookie season in Lithuania and last season had his break through with UBSC Raiffeisen Graz (Austria-BSL) playing 24 games: Score-2 (21.5ppg), 6.3rpg, Assists-2 (8.0apg), Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 78.4%. He played his college ball at Frank Phillips (JUCO) and Keiser (NAIA). He teams up every week with Miles Schmidt-Scheuber to talk basketball.

Thanks Stanley for talking to germanhoops.com. How tough was it coming back from 21 days off to playing twice within 48 hours?

It was a tough turnaround for our group. We let one get away from us on Friday so we wanted to bounce back and give it everything we had on Sunday.

You split with Artland and Nurnberg. How tough was it losing 86-85 to Artland and keeping the playoff fight very exciting from 7-10?

It was a tough loss for our team. With that win we could’ve been in a good spot right now, however we learned from that loss and was able to bounce back. The playoff race is close we just have to focus on us and try to win each game.

Talk a little about the crunch-time and last seconds. Is this a game that PS Karlsruhe should have won?

Yes I think it was a game we should’ve won, we had our opportunities both offensively and defensively but we weren’t able to execute.

You had a solid game of 29/6/4 stats. How much did your 3 turnovers annoy you knowing that having those 3 possessions back would of probably won you the game?

Yeah I’m not a fan of forfeiting possession by turning the ball over. Without those 3 turnovers, we could’ve got 3 shot attempts so things may have been different.

PS Karlsruhe came back focused on Sunday beating a tough Nurnberg team 90-82. How key was this win for gaining extra leverage mentally in the playoff hunt?

This win was big for us being so they’re right there in that playoff mix with us. We understood how important this game was for us.

Nurnberg played you tough on the offensive glass, but was the precision three point shooting in the end the main factor for getting you the win?

I think we fought till the end. They did a good job on the offensive glass, with their players looking to be in attack mode and getting down hill kind of got us out of position and we weren’t putting our bodies on them. We shot the ball well from three I think that helped as well.

You had another solid game with 23/8/7 stats. You had very good shot selection from outside last weekend. How vital will that be in general for your game going into the post season?

I’m just trying to make plays for my teammates and myself. I take pride in being efficient, so I’ll keep the same approach and see how things go.

PS Karlsruhe have a very tough game on Thursday against the wiha Panthers who are fighting to stay in the Pro A. What will be key to getting the win? You won the first game. What will be key to getting the victory?

The key to this game will be to control the glass, defend at a high level and play with a high level of energy and focus.

Thanks Stanley for the chat.

Worthy de Jong (194-G-1988) is a 34 year old 194cm guard form Holland playing his 11th season for Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden (BNXT League). In between he played one season for SO Maritime Boulogne (France-ProB). He has won 7 titles in Holland and also been a member of the Dutch national team. He recently spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Congrats Worthy on reaching the Fiba Europe Cup semi-finals. How good does it feel winning at home over Crailsheim?

It feels great, but we aren’t satisfied yet. so our focus needs to maintain sharp.

You already won the Super Cup. Now your two wins away from another title. How strong is that ‘We believe’ in the team?

Believe should be there every day, and with that we grow closer, start to know each others tendencies.

Leiden had only lost by three points in Crailsheim. How good was the overall team feeling going into this do or die game of winning?

Pretty good I’d say, we felt like we could’ve beat them at their place but came up short. I also played a terrible game there. so it was definitely one to make up for.

The first quarter was really tight. What do you believe did the team feel learn from the first game from TJ Shorts game? I guess it’s fair to say that you can never completely stop him?

It’s always easy to speak about it after the game, but besides that he is a great player. The team is also built around him, they run most plays for him and that’s something that you could really notice once he was out for the remainder.

The second quarter continued to be a real dog fight. You hit a big three late to conserve the slight 53-49 advantage. Why couldn’t any team get away from the other?


Well lack of experience kicked us a little, and their pressure really did make it tough on us.

TJ Shorts went out injured in the third quarter. Did you see after that just how valuable he is to his team? They weren’t the same anymore.

Like I mentioned earlier, his usage is really high so when he went out someone else had to run the plays that were kind of designed for him and that kind of took the team out of their element.

Leiden made a run in the last three minutes as Maarten Bouwknecht gave a huge spark. Was it easier to find a better routine on the defensive end without Shorts in?


Focus definitely shifted, but the remainder of the players on the floor were also players of great capabilities so it just moved to someone else.

Leiden did a super job keeping the double figures lead for the most part. Crailsheim came back a little in the last minutes, but it wasn’t enough. You gave up 28 points in the second half. What adjustments did you make on defense?

intensity definitely played a big roll. We were lacking some energy earlier, but were able to pick it up. Plus communication also played a roll. knowing where to run to, rebounding missed shots.

Two big strengths on the night was sharing the ball and rebounding. What else contributed to the win?


I think those were definitely 2 of the most important ones. Defense itself also was really strong .

You got huge support from Maarten Bouwknecht. I guess he remembered the win over Gronningen where he shot out the lights like tonight.

Maarten is a player I have been telling teams about for a while now and as the season progresses people start to notice what he is capable of and teams start to see the mistake they made not signing him.

You next play against Bahcesehir whom you lost twice two. What do you remember this team giving you the most problems?

it was a variety of things that made it difficult. I would say experience was definatley a factor. Athleticism and Smith is also a factor that needs focus.

You had solid games against them, but you must be even more focused this time holding your own against some ex NBA players. Is their a favorite in the game?

I never lay any focus on what the players name brings, I focus on the task at hand which is making it as tough as possible for them to play their game.

Could defending against alltime Eurocup shooting king Jamar Smith be an assignment that will fall into your hands? What do you remember from his game?


It’s definitely a nice challenge, one that I won’t go out the way for. He’s crafty, quick and has a nice shot, so I will have my hands full.

You have had a solid season in both competitions. Turnovers have been a problem. Is over aggressiveness sometimes a cause for this?

I’d say at times that could be the case. Besides the last domestic league home game, I think most of my turnovers are caused on trying to give an assist. So intention is good I’d say. execution might need to be better.

What can we await from the game against Bahcesehir? Will three be a charm? I


t might just be. Other than luck. I’d say hard work. and staying sharp.

Thanks Worthy for the chat.



Tags : WORTHY DE JONG, ZORG AND ZEKERHEID LEIDEN, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Kendale McCullum (194-G-1996, college: Lewis, agency: Octagon Europe) is a 26 year old 194cm guard from Elgin, Illinois that is playing his third professional season and first with the JobStairs Giessen 46ers (Germany-BBL). He played his rookie season with the Uni Baskets Paderborn (Germany-ProA) averaging 18.1ppg, 5.3rpg, Assists-1 (7.2apg), Steals-2 (2.6spg), FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 42.4%, FT: 76.2%. last season he helped the Helsinki Seagulls (Finland-Korisliiga) win a cup averaging 14.5ppg, 5.1rpg, Assists-3 (7.0apg), Steals-1 (2.5spg), FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 75.6%. Before turning professional he played at the University of Wisconsin Parkside (NCAA2) and Lewis University (NCAA2). He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 88-75 victiory against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg.

Thanks Kendale for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the massive 88-75 win over the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. What was it like playing against Rickey Paulding for the last time? How have you followed his path since arriving in Germany in 2019?

He’s a legend. I wouldn’t say I followed him but I heard his name many times since my arrival in 19′. It’s crazy to see him still competing at a high level still at his age. I definitely will need tips from him on how he managed to stay in this game so long.

The Ewe Baskets Oldenburg had the tight 17-15 advantage in areal grind out first quarter. Did you feel added pressure really having to do so much yourself as you seemed to be the whole offense.

I wouldn’t say it added pressure. I think we had some good shots and they just didn’t fall. We just had to stick the game plan! We knew shots would start to fall.

The second quarter continued to be tight as Giessen couldn’t get over the hump. How vital was it for the Giessen self-confidence that the offense didn’t have to rely on you as much anymore?

Despite the way we played the first half we were still in the ball game. Our confidence never left. Just had to grind it out.

The Giessen 46ers exploded in the third quarter for 32 points. What words of wisdom did head coach Pete Strobl give you at the break?

They made it difficult for us to run our sets. They applied alot pressure! We knew if we could get open it would give us more chances to score and that’s what happened. We knew the ball would start to go through the net.

Philip Fayne was instrumental in the third quarter with 4 buckets. How refreshing is his game in general on a day to day basis?

Everyday he’s getting better and learning the game and the league. He knew Tai was in foul trouble so he just attacked him knowing Tai didn’t want to foul and it made it easier for him to score.

The scoring onslaught continued in the fourth quarter. You scored three quick baskets in the first few minutes of the third quarter. Does everything become easier when the whole team is on the same page?

I think when we move the ball and run through our sets we are hard to guard. Sometimes we settle for a good shot and not a great shot. In the second half we did a much better job of moving the ball.

It’s been a very tough season for the Giessen 46ers. How tough has the season been for you coming from a winning culture in Finland?

It’s a different level of competition here. It’s been a challenge just because we’ve dealt with injuries, players coming and going, covid and etc. it was tough for us to build a chemistry and learn how to play together. I’ve never in my life had a losing season. So, it’s been very challenging dealing with this situation but it’s all about the experience.

You always play with the dice when you don’t have a big budget. What has been the biggest problem this season? Is it chemistry of not finding an identity on defense?

We try to pride ourselves on defense. Something we work on everyday. Just with guys being injured, signing and releasing players and etc. it’s just been tough to build something consistent.

Head coach Pete Srobl has taken a beating in certain times about how his work. How have you experienced him as a coach? I mean he certainly gave you a lot of freedom.

He knows the game very very well. People don’t realize that our team is very young. Only 3 guys have BBL experience. Everyone else is a rookie. It’s tough to win games with guys who have little experience in the league and are young. We’ve lost a lot of close games because of that too. He’s taught me a lot since I’ve been here.

Especially his usage of big John Bryant was criticized. How did you experience the big fella. Was it an honor playing with the future BBL legend?

John played a big factor of me coming to Giessen instead of the other BBL teams that offered me! He’s like a big brother to me. It was an honor to play with him and pick his brain about how the league works and stuff.

How big was the bitter 71-69 loss in Braunschweig on December 23rd? Could that have been the turning point? After that loss the losing continued.

We’ve lost many games that were bitter and super close. If we won those games it would obviously be a different story. When you lose a close game it’s hard mentally knowing you could’ve won.

Is there any hope for the team starting a big season ending run to stay in the league?

Every game for us will be tough. We just have to focus on each one and hope we get the outcome we want.

How have you seen the development of talented German Bjarne Kraushaar? Did you take him under your wing? What is missing for him to average 20 plus minutes?

I think just him not having confidence in himself is what’s stopping him from getting those minutes. I love playing on the court with him. I think we compliment each other very well. He’s learned a lot from coach. He’s getting better each day.

Florian Koch is a real experienced veteran, Can even a veteran like you learn something from him?

Of course. You can always learn something from teammates. He’s one of the guys with BBL experience.

You have had a great first season in the BBL averaging 14/4/6/2. Do you ever wonder where you would be today had you played your rookie season in the BBL and not in the Pro A?

I do think about it sometimes but I’m also happy with the timing! I’m just happy to be performing at a high level now that I have the opportunity to show high level clubs that I can play at an high level. I just wish we were winning more games.

Despite your good stats, how difficult has it been for you as a point guard to see all the losing? How much blame do you take on yourself?

I think at this level no matter how well I play sometimes it’s not enough. In Finland, if I had a triple double we were winning that game by 30. Here, if I have a triple double we could still end up losing the game despite the performance.

Your averaging 3,5 turnovers per game. What has been the biggest challenge for you this season in your first BBL campaign?

A lot of TO’s are just me trying to make plays for my teammates. Or when I think I got fouled and refs don’t call it. Or some guys just don’t catch the ball. It’s part of the game and it happens. Each TO is from me being aggressive. Biggest challenge is just trying to be positive and be a good captain and try to find a way to rally the guys and get wins.

What have you personally enjoyed most about playing and competing in the easyCredit BBL? What has been your nicest moment this season?

The atmosphere in the beginning of the season with all the fans! For home and away games. Nicest moments are each game we win. But, for sure playing at Munich was a great experience.

Recently an American Jonathan Braeger scored 100 points. He got a lot of hate because only 5 guys played against his team and only 3 in the second half and didn’t play defense. How can one rate a performance like that?

Wow. Never heard this. Now I have to look into it

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

I did not see the sequel. Waiting until I’m home to watch with my family

Thanks Kendale for the chat.

Ta

Frantz Massenat (193-G-1992, college: Drexel) is a 30 year old 193cm guard from Trenton New Jersey that is playing his eighth professional season and sixth in Germany currently with the niners Chemnitz averaging 10,3ppg, 4,0rpg and 5,3apg. He played two seasons with MBC and three seasons with the EWE Baskets and now is playing his first season with the Niners Chemnitz. He also gained valuable experience playing in Spain in Italy. He played at Drexel University from 2010-2014 playing a total of 124 NCAA games. He talked to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Frantz thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Before I get to basketball, I have to ask you about COVID-19. How has it affected you and what has been the most challenging thing that you have had to encounter on and off the court?

Covid affected me a lot , when it happened I was in Spain and we had to stop and be in quarantine for months and mentally and physically this was hard. My parents were catching Covid when it first started and it was scary. We were able to finish the season in a bubble in Valencia after time of uncertainty but as a team we had a good season and finished the season well. Last season I caught Covid so that was difficult but for basketball we played without fans and we were able to play a full season.

With everything that you experienced with COVID especially off the court how do you feel has it made you stronger as a man?

It has made me stronger as a man because I was able to deal with all of these things alone by myself so it showed me that I am a strong person and that I can get through anything I just want to be strong mentally every day.

Congrats on signing with easyCredit BBL team Niners Chemnitz. After two years away from Germany did you get a little home sick to German?

Haha homesick , I wouldn’t say homesick because Spain and Italy were good to me but it feels good to be back in Germany in a culture I started out in and know well.

The way that the Niners Chemnitz wanted you so much was a big factor why you came on board, but how much of a factor was head coach Rodrigo Pastore? What was most appealing to you in the talks?

I felt how honest coach was with me in our talks , he made me feel comfortable as a player and person. He told me he would push me to be better everyday. He is a coach I think I need at this moment , he believed in me a lot after my injury last year and that means a lot to me.

With MBC you played for a non playoff team, with the EWE Baskets a usual playoff team and now with the Niners Chemnitz a very ambitious team seeking to reach the playoffs. Would you enjoy having the number one go to guy role?

I think throughout my career I was able to show I can play both roles , the go to guy and the role player so whatever role the coach wants me to play I will do it for the team. Anything it takes to win.

You left Germany as a very versatile and consistent offensive player and then played two years in the ACB and Italy. How are you a better player today than two years ago with Oldenburg?

I am more experienced I was able to go in play in some of the best leagues in Europe and play against some of the best teams in Europe. This alone has made me a better player , being able to play all different situations against so many different great teams helped me become a better player.

In your second season with MBC you averaged a career high including NCAA 5,2apg. Do you see yourself being able to be a creator again like then while also staying very faithful to your scoring abilities?

I am always willing to pass the ball to my teammates as long I stay aggressive I am better at making decisions for assists and scoring. I think I will be able to have a good balance with scoring and passing the ball to my teammates

You have been a very consistent offensive player your whole career. At age 30 do you see yourself in your prime and on what areas of your game are you working on most now to continue to get better?

I do see myself at my prime and I’m blessed to still be playing. What I have been working on a lot is making decisions on the right side of the court and shooting off the dribble. Also still working on quickness and change of direction

Last season you played the first time for two teams in Italy and Spain. How tough was this season with COVID being in the way?

It was a experience every player had to deal with last year nothing was normal and congratulations to all the guys who made it through the season. Covid made the season tough off the court because everything was closed and shut down so you were in the gym or in home. Covid made it tough because if players tested positive it made practices and games more difficult because you would have to adjust until players came back and in physical shape to play.

Last season you were teammates and now you will battle Justin Robinson who is with Bamberg. Do you see him being able to keep up the long tradition of good Bamberg guards?

Justin is a real good guard. He can score the basketball really good and can pressure guards on the defensive side of the court. It will be good to play against him this year. He will do good at Bamberg I know he is happy to be there, he deserves it

You played briefly with Baskonia last season. What was it like playing with legendary head coach Dusko Ivanovic? Was it tough coming in late in the season and being able to convince him of your abilities?

It was good to have experienced Baskonia , it was good to challenge myself as my season in Italy to be there with a coach like Dusko. He is a good coach but yes it was too late for me for the situation they were going through at the moment.

Two years ago you played with Spanish ACB team Mona Banc Andorra. How do you feel did your game profit most from the best league in Europe?

It profited so much playing in Andorra , coach Ibon really really made me a better player. He challenged me everyday and he never let me give less than 100% in practice or games. This prepared me for playing in the best league in Europe. Playing against all the euro league and EuroCup and champions league teams every week made me a good player. Thatyear was an experience that really helped me become a better player.

You played three years with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg and Rickey Paulding. Where does he rank with your all-time best teammates and what is something about him that has always impressed you the most?

Haha Rickey is my number 1 teammate but our relationship is deeper than just teammates , this was more of a family relationship. We still continue to talk all the time and that’s what I appreciate about him the most. I am impressed with how he is a big family person and still playing basketball at a high level even with his age. Rickey is a cool humble person I am thankful to have played with him and be around his family for 3 years.

What special play do you remember most between him and you on the court?

The biggest play I remember was his shot against Ulm when we played in the playoffs after Chris Kramer missed the free throw and we went to overtime. I remember after the game I thanked him about 10 times for saving me because Per Gunter made a 3pt shot on me and this would have won the game for them. He saved me haha

You scored 40 points against BG Goettingen in a blow out win. Was that the greatest personal exhibit that you have given a s a player?

Yes I would say this 40 point game was my greatest personal scoring exhibit. Maybe a lot of people don’t know, I did this coming off the bench , I always joke with the guys I play with and ask them if anyone has ever scored 40 coming off the bench haha

You played your first two professional seasons with MBC. How thankful are you for them giving you an opportunity as a rookie? How important were your first two years in your development?

I am so thankful for them giving me an opportunity especially now that I understand how important it was for me to start in a first league in Germany. I always give them credit and thank them for starting me in a good league. It was really good for my development because at MBC they gave me a role player role and was patient with me to grow into the player they thought I would be. The coaches there really developed me into a European player and I am thankful for this

What memories do you have of American Marcus Hatten. How much of an impact did he have early in your career on and off the court?

Me and Marcus also still talk a lot. I remember how we were really close at MBC and how he would talk with me about the basketball game on and off the court. At 23 I was lucky to have a guy with this much experience on my team who was consistently teaching me.

You played at Drexel (NCAA) from 2010-2014. What memories do you have from those years and was reaching the NIT Elite 8 in 2012 your biggest achievement?

I have so many memories from Drexel. I had a really good career there top 10 in scoring and assists , won a lot of games . My teammates and coaches were always good to be around. Yes the NIT elite 8 was the furthest I’ve been. Freshmen year I made rookie team sophomore year I made first team all conference , junior year I made second team all conference , senior year I made first team all conference. I had successful years at Drexel

In your junior year you hit an amazing 50 foot game winning shot against Hofstra and it was added on ESPN’s top 10 plays. How many times do you estimate that you have seen the shot and what does it mean to you?

I have watched this shot maybe 50 times haha , it was special to me because a lot of my family from New York was there watching me play and my parents were there watching me play and my best friend played on the women’s team , so to hit the half court game winner in front of all the people I love this was a nice big moment for me.

How did head coach Bruiser Flint groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Because of Coach Bru I am able to play for all the Balkan coaches I play for. He is really big on screaming haha and discipline. He has prepared me for these types of coaches and this is what I am most thankful for. He was a great coach for me

Who won a one on one in practice you or Damion Lee?

Me easy. Damion Lee was my young guy I taught him everything he knows haha

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

I would say Charles Jenkins or Zack Lavine or Matt Dellavedova.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time

Haha tough question. Loved all my teammates

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads.

Jordan , Lebron , Kobe , Shaq , Iverson

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

At the moment it is Michael Jordan because Lebron is still playing, let’s let Lebron finish his career first , Lebron is also my favorite player

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

Hahaha YES !

Thanks Frantz for the chat