Stanley Whittaker (183-G-94, college: Keiser) is a 26 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

A tough 85-75 loss against the Tigers Tuebingen. How much does this one hurt? I feel like in a way you let it slip away in the fourth quarter?

It sucks to lose of course but we have to learn from our mistakes. We have a short turnaround this week so we have to move forward and get back to work!

How bitter is it when three players combine for 59 points to beat you?

It’s tough because we didn’t do enough from a defensive standpoint to give ourselves a good chance at limiting their opportunities. We have to follow the game plan and execute at a higher level.

Ps Karlsruhe had a good start into the game, but in the second quarter lost control allowing 27 points and being down 42-36 at the break. What did the team get away from in the second quarter?

It all starts with our defense, we gave them clean looks at the basket, we also didn’t finish possessions gave up 13 offensive rebounds, and we turned the ball over too much. Those are recipes to losing ball games, so we have to clean up and be better in those areas.

PS Karlsruhe had massive difficulty controlling ex BBL player Mateo Seric. What gave the team the biggest problem with his game in the paint?

He is just a crafty veteran guy, very understanding of his game and sticks to what he knows. His teammates did a great job of getting him the ball in his spots. He is a good player, much respect to him.

Seric continued to be a menace in the third quarter and also hit a three pointer. You took control and hit back to back baskets in the last minute to give the team the 57-56 lead. Do you have the freedom and green light to take control whenever you want?

I just try to help my team as much as I can. I know my teammates trust me to deliver so I have to do a better job at doing so.

In the fourth quarter big three’s hurt you. Why couldn’t you strap down as a team on the defensive end?

Those 3s in the 4th quarter sort took like life out of us as a unit. We tried to throw different looks at them defensively to disrupt their rhythm. It didn’t go in our favor this time but we will continue to work on the defensive end and be better.

You didn’t have one of your better nights. Is the team missing someone that can pull the lever and take over when you have an off night?

Definitely wasn’t one a good night for me but that’s comes with the game sometimes. I’ll be better going forward just have to shake this one off and move forward.

You scored only 10 points, had 5 assists and 6 turnovers. What annoyed you more the shooting percentage or turnovers?

The turnovers because that’s stops us offensively from getting a shot in those possessions so I have to be better and take better care of the basketball going forward and I will.

Did the Tuebingen defense do anything out of the ordinary to limit you or was or was it more on you?

Credit to Tubingen, they were aggressive, denying me the ball, sending two defenders at me at times. It was a solid defensive performance from them collectively.

You next have the double weekend playing Nurnberg and Paderborn within 3 days. Will the team show it’s true colors during this weekend?

We have to lock in this week. Two good teams in front of us, we’ll prepare accordingly, take it one game at a time and hopefully we can come out victorious in both!

How did you experience Halloween in Germany? Are you surprised how Americanized it is here?

I didn’t get to experience it much but my some of my teammates got to enjoy some time at the theme park which they said it was really nice so I’m happy for them and about that.

Thanks Stanley for the chat.

John Murry (192-G-95, 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.

Thanks John for talking to germanhoops.com Another game another loss. How did you spend Halloween? If you could of chose a costume to demonstrate the frustration you must have what would it be?

Honestly I don’t even know, I try to stay positive through all the frustrating moments so it doesn’t turn into negative energy. I definitely am trying to make the best play and win and encourage my team.

The club now is 0-6. Have you ever suffered a losing streak like this before in your life?

No I have not ever lost like this in my life, working my behind off to make sure that changes very quickly.

It seems to be the same old adage defense. You score well, but can’t seem to defend well for 40 minutes. Does this get more and more frustrating?

Yes but we are working on staying positive and fixing the issues by watching the film.

As a veteran have you been able to pinpoint the biggest problem now? How much does effort play a role?

It’s all about effort and focus, it has nothing to do with offense, we just need to defend for 40 minutes and we can be a top team in the league.

You knew as a team that Ibbenbueren was very talented. What do you believe was their biggest strength on this night?

Just staying disciplined, everybody on that team knew their role and played it very well.

What was it like playing a fellow NCAA player Marco Porcher-Jimenez? You also couldn’t slow him down?

The whole team played their role to a T and made sure they stayed calm in pressured moments.

What positives could you take form the game? I mean scoring continues not to be a problem.

Positives are, the film doesn’t lie and when we watch the film, that’s where we get better and fix our mistakes.

Your scoring continues to be down. You had 14 points and took only 8 shots. You had 6 assists. Are teams brutally keying in on you more or are you trying to be a facilatator more?

A little of both, the double teams are coming and more frequent so I’m looking to get my team involved more.

Is being aggressive a problem at the moment? How brutal will this week be for you personally in preparation for Dorsten?

I’m definitely taking it personal to go get a Win and hyping the team up to do the same. Losing is no fun AT ALL.

Dorsten is a must win. How confident are you that the club will finally pull out the first win?

Pretty confident to get this win as we prepared well with good practices during the week and corrections on defense.

The Boston Celtics have had a slow start. Shouldn’t they let Dennis Schroeder start and have Marcus Smart come from the bench?

I believe that might be a good fit, Dennis is a really good guard who pushes the ball and is able to control the tempo of the game.

Thanks John for the chat.

DJ Woodmore (190-SG-92, college: VWU) is a 29 year old 190cm point guard that is playing his seventh professional season and fifth with the Ahorn Basket Bis Baskets Speyer. Last season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz he averaged 13,3ppg, 6,0rpg, 4,3apf and 1,3spg. In 2019-2020 with the Morgenstern BIS Basket Speyer (Germany-ProB) he played 21 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 87.3%. In 2018-2019 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 71.6%. In his first two seasons with Speyer he averaged 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1% and 17.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 76.4%. he played at Virginia Wesleyan College (NCAA3): from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). He spoke to germanhoops.com before the Pro B game against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors.

DJ thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you and how is basketball life treating you?

Thanks for having me as always!! Just enjoying the season so far again in Speyer!! Basketball has been good so far this season. Couple games we should have won but we’re getting a little better each week.

You are back in Speyer for a 5th season. Could you say your back home in Germany?

Absolutely. Love being back in this place surrounded with friends and family. Makes the long season away from home feel a little shorter!

Returning back to the Ahorn Baskets was a no brainer. Did you feel after your time with Koblenz you needed to go back or could you have gone elsewhere?

I had a few options on the table before I made my decision to go back to Speyer, but it’s always an easy decision to come back to where it all started!!

I believe you have no agent at the time. What was it like having to negotiate with the team?

I’m signed with Dagger Baskets agency! They’ve been helping me a lot time with negotiations.

A lot happened in the last season. Mostly new players came. Is it your team again or are you sharing the duties as main leader with Darian Cardenas?

Darian is definitely our captain and has been leading us this season, I’m just trying to do my part and bring some experience to the table.

The team is currently 3-3. You came in mid way through. What is your impression of the team? Where could it’s journey go this season?

I love this team this year. Definitely dropped the ball the first two games to two teams I feel like we should have beat. Could be looking at a completely different record had we not gotten off to terrible first half starts.

There are a lot of veterans on the team, but also young guys. Have you become like a mentor to Nicklas Geier? What has been your impression of him?

Nick has been solid for us so far! I definitely believe he can play well at this level and bring a lot to our team. I’ve been trying to help him here and there but he’s going to find his own path for sure! He has a really bright future ahead of him.

You suffered a tough 81-73 loss against your ex team EPG Baskets Koblenz. With what kind of feelings did you enter the game with?

I just treated it like any other game. Definitely wanted to win and play well but I tried not to think about it too much. Thought we had our chances to take the lead but they handled our runs well.

They did a severe house cleaning. How much better is this team and do they look like one of the favorites to win it all?

Yes they’re pretty strong and they’re much deeper than last year’s team. I think they’ll have a really good regular season. Hopefully get some favorable matchups in the playoffs but I think Speyer can get there as well. We just have to peak at the right time.

You guys were in the game in the fourth quarter, but just couldn’t get over the hump. What was key in crunch-time for Koblenz to get the victory?

Brian and Marvin stepped up big time in the fourth quarter. Every time we made a run, they answered. It just made it hard to keep momentum. We were one play away multiple times. But that’s what good teams do!

Despite being opponents now, what is it like to compete against Brian Butler? What will you always remember from him as your teammate?

Brian was definitely one of the most competitive players I’ve ever played with. Always a battle when we’re on the court together. Great leader and Better person. Def a great teammate.

Your turning 30 next year. Do you feel like your in your prime now?

Absolutely. Feel like my body and mind is still getting better these days. Hope it doesn’t change too much when I hit my 30s. But we’ll see.

You continue to put up very consistent stats this season. Does anything change with your personal goals or as always are they to do all you can to help the team win?

It’s the same as always. I feel like as long as I’m impacting the game and trying to make plays on offense or defense, the wins will pile up. And the rest will take care of itself.

Your returning back to Frankfurt this weekend. You have played there so many times. The team this season is very young. What is your impression of them?

I think they’ve been playing good basketball so far this season. It’s going to be a tough game for sure. When they’re hitting shots, they’re hard to beat!! Our pick and roll defense will have to be on point if we want to make it tough for them.

You will face off against Marco Voeller. What does that last name mean to you when you hear it?

Voeller is def a great player and will be a tough match up for us. His first league experience has helped them be successful all season.

Another Halloween in Germany. How have you witnessed Halloween in Germany in the last years. Has it become even more americanized since you arrived in 2014?

Yes!! Each year it feels like the celebration has gotten bigger. Glad the tradition is going worldwide

What was the last movie that you saw?

James Bond: No Time to Die

Thanks DJ for the chat.

In February 2020 Joshua Scott (185-G-98, college: Thomas Univ.) played his last NAIA game against Keiser University and then came COVID that changed the whole world. For the psychology major from Thomas University now came the moment of truth about whether he would seek a 9-5 job or attempt a professional career overseas. Witnessing NAIA players overseas is about as rare as it is ever was to see Ben Wallace go 10/10 from the free throw line. They do exist, but they are really rare. Scott had the choice of possibly using his major as a career’s advisor, or an education consultant or possibly a social researcher. The type of jobs he could do weren’t scarce, but instead he decided to try a professional basketball career. It will surprise many people, but former NBA greats like Elgin Baylor, Willis Reed, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman all came from the NAIA. So in a sense, you can never underestimate an NAIA player. They are around, but they just aren’t as abundant as NCAA players. Thomas University had their first player go pro in 2017 with William Cruz, but in Scott’s team of 2020 saw him and three other players go pro with Dexter Hood, Cedric Wright and Nick Kunchulia. The German lower leagues see NAIA players on a more constant rate as guys like Stanley Whittaker and Mark Gordon have been two guys that have given the name walking bucket a new meaning. Joshua Scott had a solid rookie season in North Macedonia and now is looking to make the next step in a higher league in Austria with the Kapfenberg Bulls (Austria BSL). The Florida native is more than thankful that he hasn’t had to take on a 9-5 job quite yet. ‘It’s a blessing indeed, I thank God every day. I wasn’t presented with a great opportunity only a few months after I graduated to leave and play in Macedonia. I was prepared to sit out a year because of Covid. So when I got the shot I jumped on it, NAIA player turned pro, that’s just a blessing from God himself’, stressed Joshua Scott. He is just another rare NAIA player living the ultimate basketball dream overseas.

Joshua Scott who remembers never playing Thomas University teammate Dexter Hood in one on one, but remembering he was always first in team sprints was born on January 19th, 1998 in St Petersburg Florida. He began his career at St Petersburg high school and then proceeded to play two years at Florida State College of Jacksonville (NJCAA). Playing JUCO is never an easy task as every guy there has his own unique story and wants to earn a ticket out and up the ladder to the NAIA or NCAA. It wasn’t any different for him. Hearing from ex JUCO players that their time there were the most instrumental in their basketball life has been as copious as it has been seeing Derrick Rose execute the floater. ‘FSCJ made me into the player that I am. It was my only offer coming out of high school so I made sure I worked hard every day there. Playing against D1 transfers and guys really trying to get to that D1 level opened my eyes to how hard I needed to work’, remembered Joshua Scott. His good play and development there as a player rewarded him with a NAIA gig at Thomas University where he had two very potent seasons averaging 17.8ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 81.7% and as a senior averaged 15.4ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 86.4%. He scored in double figures in 28 of 40 NAIA games including hitting for 20 points or more 18 times. His most spectacular performance came against Florida Tech in a tough 92-85 loss where he exploded for 46 points on 16-22 shooting. ‘Everything in that game just felt so easy. Passing lanes, open shots, the game felt so simple for me. One thing I remember though was my coach yelling at me to shoot more. I got to point and I was like ‘man I think I shot enough’ but he wanted me to keep shooting. When I finally saw the box score and it said 46, I was surprised but I was upset because they got my assists wrong’, remembered Joshua Scott. Thinking that the success of a player and coach is only about being lovey-dovey is a misconception. For Scott not always having his relationship with Brenton Crews be good was key in him being able to mature the right way. ‘Coach Crews and I had our ups and downs but that’s how I feel like any great relationship with a coach is formed. He wanted the best from me and I thank him for not letting me be average. If it wasn’t for him and my JUCO coach I wouldn’t be the player I am today’, warned Joshua Scott. Even if he never won a title at Thomas University, he had a very stellar two year career there that he wouldn’t have swapped for anything in the world. ‘My coach really pushed me to play both ends of the court. Before I really didn’t understand why he was so tough on me when it came to the defensive end but now I know. In order to keep a job as an offensive player only, you really have to be a professional scorer. But with defense, you can find a job anywhere’, stressed Joshua Scott.

The guard who lists LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, and Shaquille O’Neal on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore began his professional basketball career at KK Kozuv AD Gevgelija (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) playing 25 games averaging 12.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 4.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 70.5%. It is never easy for guys who come overseas to make a rapid adjustment as so many factors have to be calculated in how a player can get used to all the things happening on and off the court that have never been seen before. Obviously playing in some countries like Germany where most people understand English is easier than if your going into the back woods of Romania or Hungry to play for a small town team. It wasn’t any different in North Macedona where he had to learn to communicate with his teammates somehow who didn’t have the English language down. On top of that, he had further restrictions in his daily life with COVID which came and never went away. He had to also deal with COVID in a foreign land, but he made the best of it. ‘The Covid year in Macedonia was extremely tough. Being on constant lock down and not able to go anywhere and explore the country sucked. Covid definitely made me mentally tougher. It challenged me in ways most people wouldn’t understand unless they went through it’, stated Joshua Scott. Even if the adjustment in North Macedonia wasn’t always easy off the court, he was fortunate to have had Antwan Maxwell as a teammate who also had balled in the NAIA. ‘It was cool for the short time he was there. We played against each other in college so I was familiar with his game. Made it a lot easier to build chemistry quickly on the court. I would say we pushed either equally to be great’, expressed Joshua Scott.

This season the ex Florida State College of Jacksonville guard who hasn’t seen the sequel to the classic Coming To America believes that if they didn’t make a part two back in the day, you don’t need one now is playing his second professional season in Austria with the Kapfenberg Bulls. So far everything has been perfect for the sunny boy from Florida on and off the court. ‘Austria it’s self is so beautiful and peaceful. As for the team, everyone from the trainers to the front office work hard at their job. The bulls have built a hard working and family environment and it shows on and off the court’, said Joshua Scott. The club is filled with many Austrian players, but also two Serbs, a Slovenian and a Croatian player. But he also has two fluent English speakers with Americans Justin Briggs and Kareem Jamar. It is always profitable being able to learn from a veteran. ‘Kareem has been almost like a mentor to me. He’s a veteran and has played in countries I am trying to get to. So I try to pick his brain every chance I get’, commented Joshua Scott.The toughest player that he ever played against that was in the NBA was Josh Selby and he has been compared to Brandon Jennings in his playing style. This season in Austria with the Bulls he has been asked to take on the role of giving his best at both ends of the court and being a vocal guy that leads his team to success. In Austria this season, he has been asked to be a type of player that he wasn’t necessarily in the past. ‘In the last my ability to create my own shot was something that made me a stand out player. Since coming to Europe though I have focused more on using my creativity to get the next man the shot’, stated Joshua Scott. You don’t see defense until the playoffs in the NBA and many shoot outs in the G-league, but in Europe the game of basketball is different and teams take pride on defense. He didn’t turn his head the other way on defense, but knows that if you can be a good defender in Europe, then most likely you will have a long career. ‘In the past I hated defense, I wanted to save my energy for offense. I would give up bucket after bucket. But now I love locking up and then going down and giving the defender a bucket’, warned Joshua Scott. He definitely has the talent to keep climbing the basketball ladder in Europe. He will always know that nothing was ever handed to him on a golden platter and that he will have to keep grinding in the lab. He has a really good head on his shoulder and knows where he came from. He knows now why he landed in the NAIA. ‘I wouldn’t say I was too good to be in the NAIA. I think that’s where I was called to be. I ended up with a very good head coach who was a standout player and coach at the D1 level; he really helped me elevate my game to get to the next level. With that being said, being an NAIA player was definitely a motivation to me. I always felt like I could play with the best of them given the chance to grow’, stressed Joshua Scott. He will give his debut in Germany this week in a Fiba Europe Cup game against medi Bayreuth. He will be able to match up against Cameron Wells who battled Steph Curry in the NCAA a decade ago and held his own and wonder if his game will be good enough for the BBL or Pro A in Germany. ‘The basketball in Germany is one of the higher levels in Europe. Somewhere I am striving to get to within the next few years’, warned Joshua Scott. Almost a year ago Stanley Whittaker said the same thing and this season he is in Germany. Whittaker came from the NAIA and was in Austria in his second season just like Scott. Who knows maybe we will see Joshua Scott in Germany next season?

Michel Diouf (208-C-89) is a 32 year old 208cm center from Senegal playing his 16th professional season and seventh with Danish team Bakken Bears. Before coming to Denmark in 2015, he had played his first 9 professional seasons in Spain in the ACB, Leb Gold and Leb Silver. He has won 9 professional titles with 8 with the Bakken Bears and one with Autocid Ford Burgos (Spain-LEB Gold). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the Hakro Merlins.

Michel thanks for talking to egermanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

Hi Miles,right now I’m in Denmark playing for the Bakken Bears the biggest basketball team in the country located in Aarhus.

Before we get to basketball please talk a bit about your basketball experiences during COVID. What were the biggest challenges for you in the last year and a half?

I think Covid has been and still a bad situation for the entire world. The biggest challenge was when we were about to play our semi final after beating Minsk in the fiba europe cup. Jjust there they stopped all sport in the country.

With everything that you have seen during COVID how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

Not really.

You have had a very interesting professional career. You played your first 9 seasons in Spain and the last seven in Denmark for top team Denmark. How long did it take you to adjust to the cold weather in Denmark?

I still haven’t adjusted. It is ,still cold like the first day lol.

Your playing your seventh season in Denmark with the Baaken Bears. In 9 years in Spain you won one title and with Baaken 8 titles and the list should continue to grow. Was choosing to play for Baaken the best basketball decision in your life?

I don’t know know if it was the best decision but for sure it is one I won’t be regretting.

The Baaken Bears have won 28 titles since 1997. How blessed are you to play for this great organization? What is the best thing about playing for them?

I can’t put it all in words. They really take care of you and make you like their own son. your home with your Family”.

The Baaken Bears are the defending champions in league and cup play. Does the pressure subside a bit for you when you have won so much in the past?

There is a bit of pressure not from anyone but from knowing how many titles the club have won and you have to respect that.

Talk a bit about the importance of Danish player Morten Sahlertz who has won 14 titles with the Baaken Bears. Is he the heart and soul of the team?

He is the captain and he is the heart and soul of the team. He is always there to listen to help not only as a captain of the team but as a brother you can trust.

What has it been like being teammates with a fellow veteran like Ryan Evans? Has he become like a brother for you over time?

Having a teammate like Ryan was and still is the best teammate I ever had not only his personality but his carisma a devotion to the team and that over time he became like a brother to me.

Last season you played with explosive scorer QJ Peterson. Where will his journey go and is his height keeping him from the NBA?

QJ Peterson is a really good player and I don’t think his height is keeping him from playing in the NBA . He got lot of talent and if he keeps working hard like he does he might make it.

Adama Darboe is another one of those great players that can do everything. What is the most incredible thing that you saw him do on the court?

Adama was a great teammate. The great thing I saw him do on the court wasn’t about basketball, but his visions and the power to lift a teammate up when he was down.”

You played most of your career in the Spanish Leb Gold (2nd division), played two seasons in the Leb Silver (3rd division) and briefly in the ACB. Did it bother you that teams in the ACB didn’t give you more of a chance?

At first yes like every other players who want to get on the top ,more when you see other players getting there and your asking yourself why I can’t get there but after it didn’t matter because my experience in Fuenlabrada was not the best.

You finally won a title in Spain in your last season in the Leb Gold with Autocid Ford Burgos which had some special guys like Jeff Xavier and Taylor Coppenrath. What was so special about this team?

I think that Leb gold team was by far the greatest team the Leb gold ever had. We lost 3 games at the start of the season and that was it. We didn’t lose any other game untill the end of the season. The team was so united. We had each other’s back at any moment.

You played two seasons with Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (Spain-LEB Gold). There you witnessed Tyrus Mcghee’s rookie season. Did you know then that this guy would go to show extreme consistency in the top leagues in Italy, Spain, Israel, France and Turkey.

Yeah for sure. We were living in the same building not to say next door. Mcgee already had that hard work ethic and consistency that when you see it you know he will be going to the top levels.

In 2011-2012 you finally played in the ACB for an extended time with Baloncesto Fuenlabrada (Spain-ACB). What memories do you have of playing in Europe’s greatest league?

Playing in the ACB was a great experience. meeting great players and coaches that I was watching on TV when I was young, but Fuenlabrada wasn’t a pleasant experience.

What memories do you have playing against the great Real Madrid that had a young Nikola Mirotic and Sergio Rodriguez. How do you remember doing in the game?

They were great memories, but Felipe Reyes was my idol and playing against him I was full of joy and happiness.

You played with C.B. Tarragona 2017 (Spain-LEB Gold) from 2007-2009. After coming from the Silver league you needed no adjustment period there. How do you feel did your game develop in those two years?

Tarragona was great. I was young and needed to learn more to develop my game and that was the right place to go. Listening to Bernie Alvarez who was my teammate at that moment helped me a lot.

You played together with the incredible Adam Hess who would go on to make a real name for himself in Germany. Did you ever see a more versatile player than him?

I think after when Adam Hess went to Germany his game went to another level. Sometimes when we were watching him play we were asking ourselves if this was the same player we played with. He was really good in Tarragona and like you said He went “incredible”Hess!!!

You were with Sevilla in your first years in Spain. Do you ever wonder how your career may have gone had you tried an NCAA career in the States?

Yeah sometimes I ask myself that, but being in Europe and learning all the basketball fundamental playing pro in an early age was really great.

You were teammates with one of my favorite guys and one of the first guys I ever covered in Germany Tyrone Ellis. He was in the latter part of his career. How important was his veteran presence for you as a very young player?

Tyrone was a great player and was kind of a mentor to me. He would take his time after practice and explain how I should improve some part of my game .He was a game changer for me.

Who was the toughest player that you have ever matched up on the court that made the NBA?

Serge Ibaka by far , defending him or trying to score on him on the (sub20 ) was the hardest thing ever.

Please name your five best teammates of all-time?

Ryan Evans, Adama Darbo, Devaugn Akon-Purcell, Tylor Okari, Darko Jukic.

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

Michael Jordan, Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Steph Curry.

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

Michael Jordan no doubt no debate.

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

They should of left it alone. I started it and still didn’t finish it.

Thanks Michel for the chat.

Jeremy Morgan (196-G-95, college: UNI) is a 26 year old 196cm guard from Iowa City, Iowa playing his first season with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He is in his fifth professional season and has had experience with teams Memphis Hustle, Kouvot Kouvola (Finland-Korisliiga), HAKRO Merlins Crailsheim and Dolomiti Energia Trento (Italy-Serie A). He played in the NCAA with the University of Northern Iowa. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the 76-67 win over the Niners Chemnitz

Thanks Jeremy for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the big 76-67 win. How ugly was this win?

I wouldn’t say ugly. We just didn’t make a great percentage of our shots but we found a way to win, that’s all that matters.

That first half was tough to watch. Chemnitz had a 29-25 advantage at the break. Did it surprise you that the game took this turn of being more a grind out game?

No. A lot of the games in this league will be grind out type of games. And when they are you just need to find a way to win.

The second half continued to be a very hard fought affair. Why do you feel couldn’t any team go on a run?

I guess both teams were pretty locked in on defense, so it made it tough to score in times especially when we’re not making our open shots. Sometimes games are like this.

I believe your block in crunch-time changed the momentum helping Bonn win. Can a block be bigger for you personally then sinking that big shot?

Of course. There is a lot of ways to make big plays in a game especially down the stretch. In the end of the game, I just tried to make plays that I think will help the team win. Sometimes it’s a block, sometimes it’s a steal, sometimes playing good defense or making a shot.

Karsten Tadda nailed 2 huge three’s at the end. If it wouldn’t have been Tadda then it would have been Skyler Bowlin. How evident was team basketball in crunch-time?

Yea they were huge shots. This is how we try to play the entire game so there is no need to try to invent something new. We just try to keep playing our basketball for 40 mins.

You didn’t have your best offensive game finishing with 8 points. Do you feel like you made up for your off shooting night with good defense?

I just always try to make as many winning plays as I can throughout the game. Sometimes shots go in and sometimes they don’t. You just have to keep shooting and keep the confidence. Then try to make up for it by making other plays.

You have played with many great point guards including small ones like Dwayne Russell. But how has it been like being teammates with Parker Jackson-Cartwright? Have you ever played with such a quick guard?

Yea I loved playing with Dwayne and I also love playing with Parker. Like you said he’s extremely fast and very talented player so it makes my job easier. He does a great job not only creating for himself but for others as well.

How much fun is it playing with Justin Gorham? You guys harmonize so well on the court as if you have been teammates forever.

It’s great! He’s a guy that really loves to compete, so it makes it easy to play with him. The more we’re able to practice and be on the court at the same time the better the chemistry will get.

You are playing a second time for head coach Tuomas Iisalo. How has he helped you most become the player that you are today?
He has helped me the most with my mentality as a player. Whether it would be staying focused in my shot or trying to win even little 1on1 boxouts. I’m always trying to stay mentally focused in every situation which is not something that comes easily and takes a lot of practice. He held me accountable so now I have higher accountability for myself which I think goes a long way.

Your playing your first season with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. How are you a different player now after getting Italian experience then you were in Crailsheim?

The gaming styles are different between Italian league and German league. I’ve tried to improve the things that I did well and make them even better. I’ve also improved some of my weaknesses like attacking the basket and being more of a creator for others.

The last time you eclipsed 40% from outside was your junior season at Northern Iowa (NCAA). Do you feel like you can still make the next level as a shooter?

Yea that’s my goal to get back on the 40%. A lot of my threes in college were stand still catch and shoot threes. You don’t get very many wide open catch and shoot threes at this level so I have to keep improving on finding ways to keep my shot the same even if it’s contested or off the move.

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

No I haven’t seen the new one. But the old one was a classic, I love Eddy Murphy.

Thanks Jeremy for the chat.

After a slow start into the season the Dragons Rhondorf are starting to find their game despite being plagued with injuries and those growing pains that a very young team usually have. After losing their first two games by 33 and 40 points, they finally escaped their rut and have won two of their last three wins winning in exciting fashion against the TKS 49ers by one point and then beat Cologne on the road and had a 2-3 record meeting fifth place team BSW Sixers who had a 3-2 record. The guests entered the game having lost two of their last three games and weren´t playing that bad basketball, but lost some tough close games against top teams Wolmirstedt and Munster. With darkness not quite there yet near buzzer time and the creepy and goolish Halloween creatures lurking around somewhere outside, the Dragons Rhondorf were in no mood of showing horrifying play, but continue their winning streak at home. But unfortunately for them costly mistakes in the last few minutes and failed execution cost the Dragons Rhondorf a bitter 81-76 loss to the BSW Sixers. The guests controlled the game for three quarters, but in the fourth quarter the Dragons made a furious comeback, but couldn´t pull out the win. ”Rebounding was a key reason why we lost in Munster. We wanted to rebound better today. Our will to rebound was there. We knew that if we moved the ball well then we would get our shots. We played with more intensity on defense than we usually do”, stated assistant coach Tom Walther.  The Dragons Rhondorf continue to improve and play better, but inexperience played a major part in crunch-time. “I thought that we played well as a team.  We had some stretches where we fought well against their runs. We had too much 1-1 play at the end”, stated ex Cal Poly American Will Christmas.

The BSW Sixers needed little time to get their offense cooking as they sped out on a rapid 14-3 run. In the run they were sparked by hot shooting from Danish national player Frederik Rungby and ex Bremerhaven guard Vincent Friederici who connected on two trey´s. Ex Alba Berlin guard Evans Rapieque also executed on a pretty floater. The Dragons Rhondorf played with little intensity and couldn´t find an offensive rhythm while the guests controlled the boards. After a Dragons Rhondorf time out, it was 28 year old veteran Paul Albrecht that got more aggressive on offense and steered two baskets home in the paint while ex Rostock guard Nicolas Bucholz made a energetic two handed dunk trailing only 20-9. German Oshane Drews also gave some fire power scoring twice including a two handed dunk and a finger tip role in as he let his incredible 1-1 skills take control. After 10 minutes the BSW Sixers had the 20-15 advantage. The guests were shooting over 50% from the field and outside while the Dragons were struggling while the guests were dominating the boards. “We began well, but we then had problems. We became too sure of ourselves and then let up. But we still stuck together well as a team to combat their run”, stressed BSW Sixers assistant coach Tom Walther.

In the second quarter the BSW Sixers kept the lead, but also had to brush off some Rhondorf comeback attempts. Both teams traded three pointers as Friederici and Nikola Petojevic hit. Then Sixers Lithuanian point guard Lukas Kazlauskas got aggressive scoring twice with a 20 footer and a left handed lay in. His drive was very difficult to stop as his high energy play kept the Dragons off guard all game long. The Dragons then found some daylight as Buchholtz nailed a three pointer and the duo of Oshane Drews and Ousmane Ndiaye combined on a beautiful alley-op dunk cutting the Sixers lead to 27-23. The young player from Senegal snuck back door and scored. “That was a play that we put in this week. We place a screen at the top and Oshane made the perfect pass letting Ousmane get it at the rim”, stated Will Christmas. “It was good timing. Drews is a really good passer”, added Ousmane Ndiaye. But the Dragons Rhondorf were unable to get stops allowing the guests to keep the lead. The BSW Sixers continued to get good production from Kazlauskas and ex Rhondorf forward Robin Danes was very strong getting an offensive rebound and putback as the guests still led soundly 33-28. The BSW Sixers continued to keep up the pressure going on a 9-3 lead to extend their lead to 42-31.  The guests continued to get vital production in the paint as ex Alba Berlin center Hendrik Warner scored twice and Robin Danes also showed his inside out play nailing a three pointer. But the Dragons didn´t wilt, but closed out the quarter with a 5-0 run as Petojevic scored inside always using his brutal physicality to his advantage and Buchholz dropped another trey as the Dragons Rhondorf trailed only 42-36 at the break. “We had a good balance between two point and three point baskets. Our good rebounding also allowed us to keep the lead”, expressed Tom Walther. The shooting percentage of the BSW Sixers went down, while the Dragons Rhondorf hit 4 additional three´s to up their shooting percentages. The guests continued to have the overwhelming rebound edge at 29-14 while both teams took good care of the ball

In the third quarter the BSW Sixers continued to keep the lead as the Dragons continued to fight back, but had way too many turnovers. The guests began with a slick 6-2 run as Danes, Rungby and Warner all scored for the Sixers 48-38 lead. Marek Kotieno and Bruno Albrecht scored, but couldn´t make up any ground as the BSW Sixers continued to score at ease in the paint as Warner and Friederici scored for the 54-43 lead. The biggest two problems of the Dragons Rhondorf were pathetic turnovers and giving up easy baskets. The guests continued to punish Rhondorf for every stupid turnover while Kazlauskas was doing a great job controlling the game for the guests. The guests got some key baskets from Rapieque and Friederici, but Rhondorf remained on their heels getting three´s from Buchholz, Paul Albrecht and Bruno Albrecht to trail only 60-54. The hot shooting just wouldn´t be rewarded with defensive stops as the BSW Sixer guards Kazlauskas and Rapieque continued to be aggressive and score at ease holding the comfortable 65-57 advantage after 30 minutes. Both teams had solid shooting percentages while the guests still had total control of the boards while both teams more than doubled their turnovers. “We had problems against Wolmirstedt and Munnster and allowed them to come back after having a weak third quarter. We wanted to stay strong like in the first few minutes of the game”, said Lukas Kazlauskas.

In the fourth quarter the Dragons Rhondorf came back and took the lead, but let the game slip away in the last minutes. The Dragons Rhondorf came out on fire as they wanted that lead back so badly. They began with a brutal 9-0 run stealing the lead back at 66-65. Petojevic showed he can be laid back and hit three´s as he made two while Paul Albrecht also scored again. The lead rapidly went back to the BSW Sixers as Robin Danes hit a three, but the reliable three pointer of Buchholz was still there as he connected on his 5^th three for the 71-68 advantage. The lead bounced back and forth now as Hendrik warner continued to annoy the Dragons inside with back to back buckets and the 72-71 lead. The Dragons continued to battle and would regain the lead one more time as Oshane Drews made a nifty spin move getting around Friederici on the base line for the 73-72 lead. But the BSW Sixers got the lead back and didn´t give it back again as Friederici made free throws and Kazlauskas made a 20 footer for the 77-73 lead. Rhondorf couldn´t execute at the end as Drews failed twice. Buchholz made three free throws for trail 79-76, but he couldn´t send the game into overtime with a last three pointer attempt. Friederici sealed the win with free throws. “We did a good job getting to the rim while missing some open shots. We fought hard and defense was the key at the end”, said Lukas Kazlauskas. “Our inexperience cost us at the end. Too many guys wanted to make the winning play instead of running the offense and getting the good shot”, stated Will Christmas. The BSW Sixers were led by Vincent Friederici with 16 points. Evans Rapieque added 15 points and Hendrik Warner 14 points while the Dragons Rhondorf were led by Nicholas Buchholz with 20 points while Nikola Petojevic had 18 points. The BSW Sixers shot 47% from the field and 33% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 15 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 42% from the field and 37% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 19 turnovers.

John Murry (192-G-95, 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.

Another game and another loss. Grevenbroich is now 0-4. How tough is basketball life at the moment for you and the organization?

It’s very tough but also a challenge that we have excepted. It’s a challenge to look in the mirror and fix the things we need to work on to be better everyday.

The close games usually hurt the most. Why couldn’t Grevenbroich pull out the win in crunch-time?

We need to make better decisions down the stretch and take care of the ball and things will be better not just in the end but all game long

Taking care of the ball continued to be a major problem again. You had 21 turnovers as a team. Do you feel like this has become amental problem?

Yes, it’s all mental at this point, we have to do a better job of taking care of the ball and making plays in the end.

The team continues to rebound the ball very well. What continues to be the secret of rebounding so well? Especially Dzemal Selimovic was a beast with 7 offensive turnovers.

Dzemal is great for us on the glass and does things we don’t take for granted.

Grevenbroich has a very slim 6-7 man rotation. Do you feel like this could give the team problems as the season continues?

We all need to step up and play our role as strong as possible like I know we can.

What was it in general playing against American Kendall Stafford? He was contained pretty well with only 8 points.
You had a good scoring and rebounding game with 28/10, but I can imagine that the shooting percentages is one you will continue to want to correct this week?

Yes, it’s just continuing to stick to my craft and focus on finishing plays.

Losing is never easy. What do you try to mentally in a losing streak. What else can one do besides remaining positive?

As the old saying would go, ‘take it back to the basics’ I watch a ton of film daily. I want to be better for myself that way I can be better for the team and pull out with a team win.

You next face off against 4-1 team Ibbenbueren. What will be the focus this week in achieving that first win?

Just sticking to what we do and moving the ball, sticking to our defensive principles and making shots down the stretch.

Halloween is around the corner. What are your memories of Halloween as a kid? What do you remember being your favorite costumes?

I remember being outside playing ball in the park on a Halloween night, my friends and I were clowning each other about who was scared to walk home at night when it was dark.
Fun times!!!

Thanks John for the chat.

Yasin Kolo (208-C-92, college: Bellarmine) is a 29 year old 208cm center that is playing his sixth professional season and second with the Itzehoe Eagles (ProB). He has needed no adjustment to the Pro A as currently he is averaging13,0ppg, 9,3rpg and 1,0apg. Last season in the Pro B with Itzehoe he played 29 games averaging 15.5ppg, 7.7rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 81.3%. The season before he played with the wiha Panthers Villingen-Schwenningen (ProA) playing 15 games averaging 8.7ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 81.0%. In 2018-2019 he played with the Rhein Stars Koeln (ProB) playing 11 games averaging 16.8ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 74.3%. AS a rookie he played 17 BBL games with Tuebingen and also boats professional experience with Ehingen and the Artland Dragons. He began his basketball career with ASC 46 Goettingen (2.Regionalliga) and then spent six years in the States getting valuable experience with the Fayetteville Christian School and palyed 15 NCAA games in total with East Carolina and Hartford. He finished his college career with Bellarmine (NCAA2) playing 29 games averaging11.0ppg, 5.8rpg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 46.6%, FT: 66.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com following his Pro B season with Itzehoe.

Yasin thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. What goals do you remember head coach Pat Elzie telling you when you arrived in Itzehoe in August 2020? Did they come true?

His Goal was for me to be in the best shape possible heading into the playoffs, after my past injury. He wanted me to be a key part in us moving up to Pro A, and I tried to do just that. The Gameplan was successful.

Before we talk about basketball, I have to ask you about COVID. What was the most challenging thing for you in your second season with COVID?

We had to be in quarantine for a couple weeks, right before playoffs. That was very tough. Being out for two weeks and then prepare for do or die games was a very difficult task. But this season was another chance to grow as an athlete. There’s always beauty in the struggle.

How can one honestly rate this season with all the drama that went on with COVID? Every team had their problems.

That’s a good question. There were a few times that had to quarantine multiple times. I felt really bad for them. Some teams had really bad luck and it’s crazy to imagine how it would’ve been for some teams without covid being around. However, I’d rate my teams season as a straight A, because we got our job done.

Congrats on an amazing season and winning the pro B title. What was special about this seasons team?

Thank you very much. I feel like we had a dog mentality and were at our best when things didn’t look good for us. And we showed that until the very end!

The Itzehoe Eagles didn’t start the season well beginning with a 0-3 record. What were your personal thoughts after 5 games? Possibly that our team was way better than this?

It took a little longer for us to really click as a unit. I wasn’t really worried, but I know that things had to change real quick. I knew that it wasn’t about how we start, it’s always about how you finish.

You then had a solid 14-4 season in the regular season. What do you believe was so special with this years club?

We worked very hard every single practice. You could tell that we really wanted to be Champs. There were a bunch of practices where coach would say “Today, I watched a championship team practice.”

Then you lost two tough games against Schwelm. The team obviously took this as a wake up call and then beat a tough Giessen team 75-74. What important lesson do you feel did the Eagles learn in the Schwelm loses?

We learned that we have to bring more energy to beat them, which we ultimately did twice at the end to become Pro B Champs.

Itzehoe had a strong playoff series and then got revenge on Schwelm. What do you believe was key for getting the finals games won and winning the title?

We really improved our defense and just played very hard and with lots of emotions. We really figured each other out at the right time.

How proud are you of Pat Elzie? The Eagles are his baby and he has helped them reach the Pro A. What do you believe was his strongest quality this season as head coach that helped you overcome all odds?

Pat is a great guy for sure. So I really am proud of him and how he was leading us as a head coach. Right before the playoffs, he was gone for about 3 weeks for personal reasons where we really missed him. It wasn’t the same without him. He believed in us at all times and set the bar high. That’s what helped us succeed. He’d trust every single player on the roster.

Let’s talk about your teammates. You played your first season with the versatile Marko Boksic. How much fun was it being his teammate and in what part of the success was he most instrumental in?

It was fun playing with Marko. Coming from the Regionalliga, I was really impressed with him. He made some very important and big shots for us and his mental strength was a key for our success.

How enjoyable was it having big man Chris Hooper besides you. How did he make your game so much easier?

We complemented each other very well. We grew very close and we said to ourselves that we wanted to be the best big man duo in Pro B. Which we were. His confidence and energy really translated into me trying to add to it, which made me better at the end.

Can Chris Hooper be an impact player in the Pro A?

Pro A is definitely different from Pro B, but I support him at all times and believe that he can become whatever he wants to be and be successful at it. So yes.

How valuable were the two German guards Niclas Sperber and Erik Nyberg? They didn’t put up massive stats, but played their roles perfectly

They did a lot of things that wouldn’t show up on the stat sheet. There were a few games where they were difference makers and got us important wins. Niclas and Erik were crucial in us winning the championship.

How valuable was experienced German Flavio Stuckemann for helping everyone stay together in tough times? He didn’t have a big scoring role, but his presence was huge.

He was a great leader for us, making sure that we got out head on straight when things didn’t go as planned. He was one of our best defenders and energizers. He would always step up when we really needed him.

Let’s talk about your game. You averaged 15.5ppg, 7.7rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 81.3%. How content were you with your season?

I felt that I became my old self again towards the end of the season where I was really able to show up for my teammates. We won the championship so I am very happy about the season.

You took a step back to go to the pro B after two tough season where you were injured. How blessed do you feel haven done this?

I’m just blessed to play the game I love after 3 surgeries in two years. I came back in a way that no one expected it. Gods Plan.

How much do you feel did your game benefit from having Chris Hooper by your side? He was the work horse, but you also did your share for the good of the team.

Like I said, Chris and I always talked about being the best big man duo in the league. So we pushed each other during practice, and games. After my injuries, I kind of lost the dog mentality inside of me. He helped me to wake up the beast inside of me.

In what part of your game did you see yourself taking another step under the guidance of Pat Elzie?

Definitely my leadership. Coach gave me lots of confidence, but also responsibilities. I grew from that.

ON what area’s of your game will you be working on most this summer so you will be prepared to make the next step as a player

I’ll especially work on my body to make sure that I stay healthy long term. I did it the past season so I keep on working towards that goal. There are many areas that I’m working on. Also expanding my bag of tricks. It’s the first time in 3 years that I’m healthy going into the offseason. Stay tuned.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the Pro B this season?

My teammates in practice.

Chris Paul recently passed Magic Johnson for fifth all-time in assists. Where do you rank him with the best point guards all-time despite never having won a ring?

Top 5.

Where do you see the journey going with Jayson Tatum who recently scored 60 points? Is he a top 10 player in the NBA now?

Not at the moment, but he’ll be there soon. He’s a special talent that you won’t find often.

Dino Radja recently said he couldn’t see Russell Westbrook leading a team in Europe to success. Do you agree?

I guess we are not talking about the same guy then that led the Wizards from the worst team record in the NBA to a playoff spot. He’s an amazing leader I think. Couldn’t disagree more.

Draymond Green recently said that he is the best defender on the planet. Do you agree?

I’d say he’s one of the smartest defenders, but not the best. But I respect his confidence.

Have you seen the Coming to America sequel? It has had mixed reviews. Shouldn’t they just have left it alone?

I didn’t. But I think Coming to America is such an iconic movie that you just enjoy and leave as it is. But that’s just my opinion.

Thanks Yasin for the chat.

It was a Saturday night in Frankfurt as the Fraport Skyliners farm team Juniors were playing a Pro B (3rd division Germany) league game against the Arvato College Wizards. As usual some of the easyCredit BBL Fraport Skyliners pro’s like Skyliner lifer/legend Quantez Robertson was taking in the contest while FC Bayern Munich their opponent the next day were tucked away somewhere in a hotel with ex NBA guys like Darrun Hilliard and Othello Hunter ready to do battle the next day. Meanwhile on the court the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had an average age of only 18 years, but on the other side was a living legend named Rouven Roessler who was only a few weeks shy of his 41st birthday and he was still playing at a high level. He played 5 years in the German BBL and probably could have had an even greater career had he wanted to stay away from his home Karlsruhe, but he was simply a homebody and is in his 18th season with a Karlsruhe organization. Current Fraport Skyliner Juniors kids Alexander Richardson, Calvin Schaum and Jordan Samare weren’t even born when Roessler turned pro in 2000 and Marco Voeller who recently retired was only 11 years old. On the court Rouven Roessler has always been a hardcore competitor that hates to lose. I never saw him snarl at an opponent, but I can imagine that he would be good at it and be able to intimidate his opponent immediately. The theme of having real live basketball dinosaurs is nothing new especially in the easyCredit BBL as there have been quite a few guys in the last years that played into their late 30’s like Derrick Allen, Chris Ensminger or Bernd Kruel. Last year Virgil Matthews decided to hang it up at age 37 and recently three older guys have decided to call it quits after this season including 39 year old Rickey ‘Mr Oldenburg’ Paulding. He has played an incredible and unbelievable 15 seasons for one organization in Germany called the EWE Baskets something very rare nowadays as players move around a lot looking for the best situations financially. Alex King will be 37 when he is finished and Per Guenther 34.’ I played against all three guys. They all define what longevity is. All played at a high level for so many years. Paulding has shown what so many Americans strive for and that is being able to play so long for one team and to be able to call that home. Guenther and King both had incredible careers in Germany’, stressed Kyle Hines (198-C-86, agency: BeoBasket).

Seeing these players that have been around for ages and keep performing at a high level can be found in many countries and leagues all over the world. One of these players is Kyle Hines who turned 35 in September and is battling in the Euroleague with AX Armani Exchange Milano (Italy-Serie A). He is a high energy player that always gives 100%, can score, rebound and block shots with efficiency. He takes incredible care of his body and is in excellent shape. ‘I feel good. I am in good physical shape. I worked a lot on my body and self during the last off season. I wanted to make sure that I would be in the best shape possible. I’m really excited to be playing my second season in Milan. I feel a lot more comfortable being in this organization and in my role’, stated Kyle Hines. He also has that mind set of a Tom Brady who is so serious about his job that he could play for forever. I’m sure that the ex Brose Bamberg center could also give a perfect snarl like Rouven Roessler and I feel this is a guy that could play until he is 40. The question of course is will his body play along every new season and how much will his family have a say in his future as his kids get older being able to spend as much time now becomes more and more of a priority. ‘I will continue to take it year by year and then see how my body feels. I have shown that I can still compete at a high level and still retain a major role with a team. I just love basketball and want to compete at a high level and win as much as I can for as long possible’, warned Kyle Hines.

The ex CSKA center is playing his second season with AX Armani Exchange Milano (Italy-Serie A). When you have won 4 Euroleague titles (most by an American in Euroleague history), the zeal to keep winning just doesn’t stop. With Milan he reached the Euroleague Final 4 again which was the 9th time in his career, but he was denied a fifth crown. Even if he didn’t win, the loss made him so much more hungry to win hardware this season. ‘I will always remember that first season that I had with Milan. We did something that the club hadn’t done in multiple decades. It was incredible to reach the Euroleague final 4. Now we want to continue and take a step forward and be in a position to be successful again this season’, stressed Kyle Hines. 10 seasons ago, Kyle Hines was still a young buck and had only two years of professional experience in Italy and was playing in Germany with Brose Bamberg and still relatively unknown, but climbing the ladder rapidly to the crme de la crme of the Euroleague. At the same time, he was teammates in Bamberg with Tibor Pleiss that was also early in his development and still 5 years away from the NBA. Today Tibor Pleiss is a top center in the Euroleague. Even if Hines didn’t win the Euroleague title, he was thrilled that Pleiss could finally win his first. ‘ I talk to him a lot. Our paths have crossed many times since we were teammates in Bamberg. I was very happy that he had a chance to win the title in his home town. It was extra special after the season before had been cut short because of COVID. His game has developed a lot since Bamberg. He can use his size and strength in many different ways. He has become a very versatile big man’, expressed Kyle Hines.

The American who played the longest time of his career with CSKA Moscow from 2013-2020 will always be able to call Moscow a second home, but after only one season in Milan, it is quite apparent that his heart is really thumping for his new home. ‘I have always had huge respect for the Milan organization. I began my career in Italy and have seen the passion that Milan fans have always had here. That has allowed my admiration for Milan to grow even more. Last year made me feel even more at home. I want to accomplish great things here’, commented Kyle Hines. When you are part of a highly ambitious and goal orientated organization like AX Armani Exchange Milano, it is very clear what the main goals are. ‘. Last year we got to the Euroleague Final 4, but couldn’t finish the job in the Serie A. For us it is a logical step to be a constant contender in the Euroleague and to win the Serie A multiple years’, warned Kyle Hines.The team has started off on fire and are perfect at 5-0 in the Serie A and 5-1 in the Euroleague. On paper they look even stronger than last season, but the always very humble Hines doesn’t want to sound too confident so early in the season. ‘I don’t know if we are stronger than last season, but I feel that we are more balanced. We have added more inside guys and also more athletic and dynamic guards. I think that we have different elements that we didn’t have last year. We haven’t reached our potential yet and want to build and grow each day’, added Kyle Hines.

The Milan roster is stacked with so much talent that I would love to see them compete against some NBA teams. I’m very sure that they would win games. They held on to vital guys like Shavon Shields, Sergio Rodriguez, Malcolm Delaney and Luigi Datome just to mention a few. Of course the club also added new vital and very interesting new components including two ex NBA guys Jerian Grant and Troy Daniels who will have their first experience overseas. ‘Jerian was a high draft pick and played many years in the NBA. He also has a high IQ like Devin Hall. He also comes from a great family back ground with his brother and uncle. He knows the game very well and is a dynamic guard. He can give a little bit of everything from the bench. He is also a really good defender. Now in the Euroleague you have very many high scoring guards so it is important to have versatile guards like Jerian who can get the job done. Troy’s ability to get hot and shoot out the lights will really help us. He is injured now, but already showed in pre season that he can score in bunches. He has shown with us that he can hit three or four three’s in a row. He gives us that special shooting element that will help us succeed. He will be a big help when the pick and roll isn’t working. He can than balance it out with his shooting’, warned Kyle Hines. Another ex NBA player the team reeled in was Devon Hall. He has an advantage over Grant and Daniels in that he has one season of overseas ball under his belt. He reportedly played for a measly 50,000 for Brose Bamberg last season and probably is earning at least 20 times as much in Milan. A guy that played for so little has to have an incredible character in a business that today is dominated by the bucks. ‘Devin is a real professional that really cares about his craft and wants to get better each day. Going to Bamberg was a good move. It allowed him to develop his game further and allowed him to get a better feel for the European game. He has flourished already with us and really compliments the other guards. He can guard 1-3 and is just great for us. Plus he comes from a great basketball family and played at a very respected program Virginia. He also has a great basketball IQ and his back ground is a big reason for his early success’, stressed Kyle Hines. Another ex NBA player and player that Hines met for years in the Euroleague is Italian Nicolo Mello who could be that type of glue guy for them. ‘He is very important for us. He is another one of those players that can help us in so many ways. He can give us the low post touches, make the right reads, right passes out of the post and is a great shooter. He also has a high IQ and always makes the right decisions’, added Kyle Hines.

He may be 35 years old, but the New Jersey native who saw the sequel to the classic Coming To America and believed it was the right thing to do to allow a new generation to see it with fresh eyes and to see the nostalgia is still not declining in his game. His stats and team play are excellent as always and as usual his biggest goal as always is doing everything possible to help his team win every night. He has that Tom Brady mentality. Skills usually decline with age, but they decline more when the body isn’t functioning as well. Look at Brady. He is in shape like a 28 year old and is still at the top of his game. Last season his stats seemed to be declining, but he was still good enough to win his seventh Superbowl and this season he is playing like a guy who is maybe 30 and not 44 and recently got his 600 touch down pass which is the most in NFL history. Brady’s relelntless focus of staying healthy has helped his game be consistent. Taking care of his body is also Kyle Hines foremost priority in order to continue to play with the best in the Euroleague. ‘I really work on my health. I want to be sure that I’m in the best shape possible so I can stay on the floor. I had some small injuries last season. This season I want to stay as close to 100% as possible. I just want to fill my role, make the right reads and play great defense’, stressed Kyle Hines. Especially the wear and tear inside isn’t easy to come to terms with when your getting older, but for him it is just normal to keep banging. But it is the extra work off the court that allows him to keep banging and be an inside force in the Euroleague. ‘I’m always trying to do different things to help me. If it’s weight training or strength and conditioning. I do these things so my body can continue to take the punishment, but also so I can be able to give it out. As I get older I need to train smarter and not harder’, warned Kyle Hines. If he wasn’t the aggressive and passionate defender that he is now, then he wouldn’t be where he is now. ‘My defense is one of the reasons why I’m on the floor and am still able to play at a high level. I take so much pride on defense. I always want to stop players. Defense has always been my calling card and I hope that it continues’, stated Kyle Hines.

But he isn’t only making a difference on the court for his club, but off the court also exceling especially in the community. Last summer he and his brother Tyler conducted the learn from the pro’s’ camp where they give back to the community and showed kids how the game really works. ‘I get great satisfaction teaching kids the game. Our goal is to leave the game better than how we found it giving knowledge to the youth. I feel that if we would have had these opportunities when we were young then we would have been better players. So why not help youths from my area get better? We enjoy working with the kids’, said Kyle Hines. He also continues to be active with the Euroleague Players Association which held it’s annual general assembly in Barcelona in September where former ELPA president Luigi Datome’s term came to an end and Tornike Shengelia stepped on board. ‘The Euroleague will continue to get better. The new Euroleague collective bargaining agreement is a first of it’s kind. This will help make better relations with teams and the players. This will help make the league stronger and help it grow’, commented Kyle Hines. Of course he continues to follow his ex team CSKA who added key parts with Alexy Shved and Kenneth Faried and wouldn’t be surprised if they are back in the Euroleague Final 4 together with Milan in Berlin in 2022. ‘They will always be CSKA which is one of the dominant teams in the Euroleague. They have reached the Final 4 in like 13 of the last 14 seasons. They will be a top team again this season. I don’t expect any less’, warned Kyle Hines. But let’s get back to that snarl again. How does the acclaimed actor Forest Whittaker fit into this equation. Well the actor who has been making movies for almost 40 years and won an Academy Award, Golden Globe, British Academy Film Award and Screen Actors Guild Award broke into acting in 1982 in the classic Fast Times At Ridgemont High. In that classic 80’s flick, he played the typical high school football jock who had some very memorable scenes that I continue to watch on You Tube including when he finds out his Trans Am was trashed. But it actually wasn’t the rival high school, but the goofy Sean Penn who was out joyriding in his car while he was on a college visit. Penn’s idea to make him think that the rival school did that to his car and not take the blame probably saved him a hospital visit. When Whittaker sees his car, he unleashes a quick sneaky snarl and after that totally takes apart the team winning the game. Not only a Rouven Roessler could unleash that classic snarl before taking apart the opponent, but also a Kyle Hines especially being that defensive stopper. I would love to see that Kyle Hines snarl once before he retires. If he keeps taking care of his body and just never loses that desire to play the game he loves, then I’m confident that he will play some more years. Maybe he will snarl once for me. And if not, I’ll always have that Forest Whittaker memory from my favorite movie of all-time Fast Times At Ridgemont High..