A day after Franz Wagner´s life changed becoming a Lottery pick for the Orlando Magic and  a millionaire, his ex NBBL(U-19 coach) youth coach Josef Dulibic had a smile across his face that could of lightened up even the grimmest of darkness that has been covering the city of Antalya, Turkey with all the brush fires that have spread across the country. It wasn´t too long ago when Dulibic had his first encounter with Wagner in late summer 2017 when he had just taken over as Alba Berlin youth coach. That was only four years ago, a time where the NBA landscape was filled with a lot less German players. Daniel Theis and Maxi Kleber hadn´t played an NBA game yet, Isaac Bonga and Moritz Wagner wouldn´t get drafted until 2018 and Isaiah Hartenstein was only a big young prospect that had good chances of making the NBA one day. The only player in the NBA in 2017 was Dennis Schroeder.Back in 2017 It had been a few months since Franz Wagner had won the German JBBL(U-19) title with Alba Berlin at age 15 and now at age 16 was ready to conquer the U-19 league. Josef Dulibic remembers that first meeting with Franz Wagner and having those first opening talks with assistant coach Andreas Fischer in late summer 2017. “The first thing I told Franz was that we saw him as a NBA prospect. He was so happy when he heard that, but at the same time very shy about the news. Now four years later he is a NBA Lottery pick. Time really flies”, stressed Josef Dulibic. With another German player with Franz Wagner being drafted, it is so important for the German basketball community. “The German population have seen more and more German players reach the NBA. Bonga and Mo were drafted in 2018 and kids notice that. The more guys that get drafted the better. Kids from towns have to be able to believe that anyone can get to the NBA”, warned Josef Dulibic.

                Franz Wagner was born on August 27^th, 2001 in Berlin and played his whole young life in the Alba Berlin organization. He got used to winning rapidly in the youth area winning the JBBL-U16 final in 2017 against IBAM(International Basketball Academy Munich) in Frankfurt and a year later helped the Alba Berlin NBBL(U-19 team) secure the next title in Quackenbruck against FC Bayern Munich. In 2018 he also added another title to his collection helping Germany win the Albert Schweitzer tournament in Mannheim, Germany with the German U-18 national team. His rapid progression continued as he always was younger than most at every new level and it wasn´t any different as he made his easyCredit BBL debut at age 17 helping destroy Science City Jena 112-55 as he contributed 12 points in only 10 minutes as he went 4/4 from the field and showed his grittiness on defense with 3 steals. That season as a 17 year old, he would score in double figures in 6 games in Germany´s top professional league. He was able to hold his own against older players and continued to develop nicely. He went 4/5 from the parking lot in three games and went 4/4 against FC Bayern Munich from outside in a tough 82-77 loss where he steered 16 points. That season he played 35 BBL games averaging 4.6ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.3rpg and got valuable international experience playing 21 games Eurocup games averaging 2.7ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.6apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 61.2%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 88.2%. In 2019 he made the trek to the University of Michigan(NCAA) where he played a total of 55 NCAA games. As a freshman he averaged 11.6ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 61.0%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 83.3% and as a sophmore averaged 12.5ppg, 6.5rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 83.5%. He showed sound consistency scoring in double figures in 34 games in his Michigan career. As a freshman he scored 22 points against Purdue and 21 points against Oregon and in his second season scored 21 points against Iowa and Indiana. He had already been on Mock NBA Draft boards two years ago before he came to Michigan and remained until the 2021 NBA Draft as he was hot on NBA team´s radars the last years.

            I reached Franz Wagner´s ex U-19 head coach Josef Dulibic on vacation only 6 hours after the German youngster had been taken as a Lottery Pick at #8 by the Orlando Magic. The 206cm versatile guard made German basketball history being the highest German ever picked in the NBA Draft at #8. Ok so he isn´t alone, but shares that spot with legend Detlef Schrempf. He was able to even outlast the greatest German player of all-time Dirk Nowitzki who landed at #9 in 1998.The speculation had been massive for a long time that the German would be picked very high. Landing at number 8 is incredible, but could that Lottery pick notoriety add some unwanted pressure on him? “Franz is a guy that has come so far, he has always needed pressure to push himself. He has always looked for the challenge on the court. If he hadn´t been a lottery pick then he would have told himself I should have been picked higher and continued to push himself to get better. Franz is just a real sport head”, stated Josef Dulibic. Many saw him going to the Golden State Warriors to join the Splash brothers, but coming to the Orlando Magic to be teammates with brother Moritz actually seems like a very good situation for him. Some years ago, the Florida franchise tried to gain success around a nucleus with Aaron Gordon and Nikola Vucevic, but that didn´t pan out. Now the Magic are rebuilding and Franz Wagner should be able to fit in beautifully. “Often guys get drafted, but never get a chance to play 25-30 minutes and be able to learn from their mistakes. But when you’re a Lottery Pick there is more tolerance. Plus being with brother Mo should also help. I see Franz getting a chance with the Orlando Magic”, said Josef Dulibic. Getting a chance right away can only be beneficial for him, but sometimes it doesn´t hurt to get some growing pains and having to fight for minutes. “It is really difficult to say what is correct and better? Getting a chance to play right away or having to fight for minutes. There are so many examples in the past where you never know what is better. I remember Anthony Bennett being the number #1 pick, but he didn´t make it in the NBA. While new NBA champion Giannis Antetokounmpo wasn´t a #1 NBA Draft Pick, but has dominated over the years. At the end of the day there is no regelation. At the end of the day it is all about the player and how much he wants to invest”, warned Josef Dulibic.

            The NBA has changed over the years and that definitely helped Franz Wagner with his chances of not only being drafted, but also being able to be a Lottery Pick. He is a 206cm guard that can defend many positions and simply is versatile. Often teams look for that player that does one thing very well in the past, but then again being versatile is a huge asset nowadays. Plus the way teams play now has changed over the years as well with their lineups. “It is a little surprising that he was taken so high as a Euro player. Picking that classical big man like Pao Gasol and Dragan Bender isn´t as common anymore. NBA teams now like to play with four wing players and a big man. Having these bigger wing players like Mikal Bridges and Jae Crowdor are the new trend in the NBA. Franz fits in well in the NBA now. He is a modern player that plays good defense and can hit the three”, expressed Josef Dulibic. But he can do so much more. His penetration was feared in the NCAA and his footwork is extra special. What could really help make a Franz Wagner go from possibly being a solid NBA player to being an impact player is being able to stabilize his three pointer. He showed in his one easyCredit BBL year in Germany that he could hit from the parking lot consistently being at 39%. In Michigan his shooting from outside dipped down to 31% and 34%. One thing that will definitely help the German in the NBA will be the spacing. “The three point line is farther back, but he definitely will have more space. I watched some videos of him recently and he seemed to have changed the mechanics of his shot. I thought it was better when he was in Europe. But I am confident that his shot will continue to develop in the NBA. NBA teams have such large coaching staffs that they will help him. Franz definitely needs a good shot in the NBA. He has to reach 40%”, warned Josef Dulibic. It definitely will not only be fun, but very exciting to see what kind of path Franz Wagner will take with the Orlando Magic. “It is hard to say how far Franz can go in the NBA. The differences are so minimal. I think the most important thing is which player makes the most out of his opportunity. A player needs to have that hunger to be better than the others, get the chance to play and the character plays a big role as well. Franz has all these attributes to make it”, warned Josef Dulibic.            

Of course Josef Dulibic is very very excited that his ex player Franz Wagner was drafted and knowing that he will have a good chance of having a NBA career, but he also remembers coaching him back in 2017-2018 which still brings him extreme joy. He remembers seeing Franz have unbelievable abilities at a young age. He was always the youngest where ever he was starting in the JBBL(U-16), then the NBBL(U-19) and then with the BBL team. “Young talented players need to be able to have the opportunity to develop quickly. They should never be held up, but given the chance to be able to do as much as possible early”, warned Josef Dulibic. The German was that good that he never even played his second NBBL season, but was rewarded with joining the BBL team. Also off the court, he showed just how gifted he was in the class room as he graduated from German high school(13 grades) at only age 17. He made gigantic steps in 7-8 months in his only NBBL year. “The Alba Berlin NBBL team was filled with so much talent. Franz was the youngest and one of the most important players on the team. You would never have thought that he was two years younger. He was so good without the ball and he knew how to make great decisions. Plus his scoring showed in the top 4 tournament. He always played with maximum intensity and he always gave everything whether it was against the worst team or against the best team”, remembered Josef Dulibic. Many people questioned his decision to go to Michigan in 2019 including myself. I once stated during my play by play of a Pro B playoff game between Lok Bernau and the Fraport Skyliners Juniors in March 2019 that I expected him to stay with Alba Berlin, because legendary Spanish coach Aito was proving that he would give young Germans minutes and he didn´t need to go the NCAA route. Boy was I ever wrong. “Everyone in the organization was sad to see him go to Michigan. He would of surely played 25 minutes in the next season. Now we see that he did nothing wrong. I think that going the NCAA route and getting to the NBA is harder than if you try via Europe. There are so many talented guys in the NCAA. Many were 3-4 years older than Franz and were more athletic. He was able to withstand all that adversary and play well”, stressed Josef Dulibic. You would think after spending an intensive year with him that Josef Dulibic would have enough stories ready for any time one is holed up in an elevator or traffic jam on the highway, but there weren´t many. “I have to be honest that there was no real wow story with Franz. I remember more the little things. I´m a guy that likes to play jokes on others. One thing that I will never forget about him was that whenever I said something, Franz was always the first to laugh. He always knew right away what would happen next from me. Franz is a great guy and the dream of every coach. He has had a fairy tale career until now”, stated Josef Dulibic. An ongoing gag with Alba Berlin is that it is a shame that there were only two basketball Wagner´s. If there would have been five or six Wagner brothers, well then Alba Berlin could have had a Wagner player every two years and had constant basketball enjoyment. Now Alba Berlin can watch from a far as Franz Wagner will take on the NBA and attempt to make his ex club proud.

Bryan Johnson is a guard from Bogalusa, Louisiana that played high school ball at Bogalusa and Bensford academy. He then played at William Carey University. He played at the 2021 Howard Hoops Combine in Germany. He took some time to talk to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Bryon thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how have you held up the last months through this pandemic?

I want to thank eurobasket.com for giving me this opportunity. Through this entire quarantine I have been located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It has been a little difficult to find a gym I must say. Especially, with the COVID cases going up daily.

How have you been keeping in shape best during COVID-19? Did you make a special plan so that you could train and work on your game as best as you could despite the tough times?

During the tough times my gym was closed for the first stage of COVID-19 I just used the outside city parks to stay in shape. I did have to travel a few hours just to use someone’s gym to put up shots work on ball handling and defensive slides sometimes.

How do you feel did COVID-19 make you stronger as a man? What have you learned about yourself that you didn’t know about earlier?

I can definitely say COVID-19 made me a stronger man mentally because it put me in a lot of difficult situations especially when it came time for me to help my family. The difficult times made me realize that I can go through anything as long as I keep a positive mind set and stay consistent.

You are from Louisiana. Talk a little about your childhood. You attended W.T White high school. When did you know that you were hit with the basketball bug?

When I was growing up I watched a lot of sports with my family. My favorite players were Tracy Mcgrady, Derrick Rose and Allen Iverson. I attended Bogalusa high school for a bit then transferred to Bensford Academy. During that changing of schools I met a few coaches and worked out with them a few times. They told me that I had game and should play travel ball , but my family couldn’t afford it. So I just played for the schools and made the most out of my opportunity.

When you were growing up who were your main basketball inspirations and how did they influence your game the most?

I can say growing up my inspiration was my grandfather as he always watched sports when I came to visit him. He would always say, watch grandson you might learn something. I felt that gave me the confidence I needed to get started with sports at a young age.

Talk a bit about the basketball experience that you have had in your life. You played at William Carey University. What kind of experience was this and how do you feel did you benefit most from the opportunity?

I can say my basketball experience has taught me a lot. Especially, when it comes to having chemistry with people and learning how to trust in difficult situations. My time at William Carey University had it’s ups and downs. I had to learn a new system and basically change my game. In high school I played point guard and when I got to college they put me at shooting guard. So I pretty much ran off screens and learned how to play without the ball in my hand. Which helped me push my game to another level. I became a very good shooter in the process.

How big is the chip on your shoulder in general? Have you been one of those guys that was always doubted and haven’t had fair opportunities? How tough is it having to accept your situation and how big is your chip on your shoulder grown over time?

The chip on my shoulder is always going to be there. During my time at William Carey University it was tough. I had to fight for every minute of playing time I got. The coach that recruited me left to go coach at another school after my red shirt year. When he left it wasn’t the same. I wanted to transfer to the Juco he was at, but I would of only had one year to play because it was a community college so I stayed at William Carey University. I honestly should of left because all I did was get recruited over from the new coaches bringing their players in. It taught me a lot about people and how the system works. I became a much stronger person that learned how to just work hard and be consistent.

Do you have any kind of professional experience? Or is the Howard Hoops Combine tour your professional debut?

I have worked out with professional oversees player, but that’s about it. I am really looking forward to my first debut with the Howard Hoops Tour.

Let’s talk a bit about your game. You’re a two way guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

If I was to compare my game to an NBA player it would be an Avery Bradley or Patrick Beverley.

Your a very good offensive player that can shoot as well as find the open man. But you also give 100% on the defensive end. How much pride do you take on being a hard nosed defender?

I take pride in my defense because I don’t like when the other team scores. It should be a hard battle every time for them.

On what things are you currently working on so that you can continue to get better as a player as you attempt to climb the basketball ladder the next years?

What I mainly focus on is my ball handling and developing my IQ because I believe in making the right decisions at the right time. I feel like if I continue to develop my understanding of the 1 and 2 position the sky is the limit for me.

You took part at the Howard Hoops Combine in August. How excited are you to play in Germany and how hungry are you to show everyone that you have game?

I am very excited to participate in the Howard Hoops Tour. The game will speak for itself. I’m just going to continue to work on my craft and learn from others around me.

How did the contact to Howard Hoops Combine CEO Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.) come about? What was the deciding moment that made you chose to play for him?

I was working out with one of my high school coaches and he was like man you should try and go overseas. So I contacted the coach that recruited me from William Carey University and he told me about Ronald Howard. Then we started from there.

Ronald Howard has a great track record of helping players find jobs. How aware are you that you have a real golden opportunity to get a job because of him?

The coach that recruited me told me that Ronald Howard is the real deal no gimmicks. If you show him you are serious he will be behind you one hundred percent.

Have you met Ronald Howard and trained with him. He truly cares for the best for his players. How have you gone to appreciate him as a coach and person the most?

I haven’t had the opportunity to train with Ron yet , but just by speaking with him on the phone I could feel the energy of greatness. He is definitely someone you need in your corner. The man is about his business.

With what kind of personal expectations did you have heading into the Howard Hoops Combine? What kind of player will we see in Bryan Johnson?

My main focus heading into the Howard hoops tour is to win with my team and enjoy doing it. of course want an overseas contract that would be a dream come true. The most important thing is just learning from other people and continue to get better every day. The type of player you should expect from Bryan Johnson is someone that is going to bring positive energy and confidence to his team.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced on the playground or in a gym that has been in the NBA?

I would say there has been a lot of overseas players and a few G League players I have played against in open gyms I don’t really no them by name.

Please construct your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of 4 heads past or present.


My NBA Mount Rushmore is Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Kevin Durant

Where were you when you heard of the death of Kobe Bryant? How did he influence you the most when you were growing up as a kid?

I was actually sleep at the time and my phone was just going off like crazy. So I woke up and looked at my news feed saying Kobe Bryant and Gigi died in a plane crash. I just couldn’t believe one of the greatest players the world has ever seen dead just like that. Kobe Bryant influenced me with his fade away. My grandfather and Aunt loved to watch Kobe Bryant. He was the first NBA player I remember seeing on TV.

Why isn’t Kobe mentioned in the standard conversation of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?

I honestly believe everyone has their own opinion of who is the greatest. When you take the time and just look at the film of those players you will see the skill level. Kobe Bryant is the most skilled in my opinion out of Michael Jordan and Lebron James. The man’s footwork is off the charts. It can’t be matched at all.

Will you be following the NBA restart? Do you feel like we could see a surprise winner this season with all the drama that has happened with COVID-19?

I will most certainly be following the NBA restart this season. I believe that the Lakers will bring it home this year. It will be a tough road for them, but they will be victororious in the end.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I saw was called Hanna.

Thanks Bryan for the chat.

Jamaal Conley is a guard that will take part at the 2021 Howard Hoops Combine. He played at St Pauls (NCAA2) and has gathered professional experience in Germany with EOSC Offenbach. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

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

You’re welcome! I’m in New Jersey at the moment and basketball life is good now that we are opened back up, we have been closed due to COVID.

Your one of the older guys on board. After leaving St Pauls College (NCAA2), what kind of job did you get? Were you able to use the degree that you got?

I honestly jumped straight into the basketball scene after college, my teammate convinced me to go to camp and that started my journey.

How big has your urge been to be a professional player since leaving school? You have professional experience in Germany with EOSC Offenbach. Why do you believe has it been so difficult to find job opportunities as a professional basketball player?

It was always a goal of mine and the main reason I took the sport serious. My situation is different from certain people just because of the things I’ve had to go through.

Your love for the game has to be huge if your still pursuing the dream now. Is this dream something that you feel will never leave you?

I wouldn’t call it a dream, it gives it an illusion that it can’t be done. I always felt like if I put myself in a position there was a way.

Let’s talk a little about COPVID-19. What were the biggest challenges for you during this time? Was it tougher keeping that normal work out routine?

It was definitely hard, but I found a way to stay in some kind of shape.

With everything that you have experienced during COVID-19 off the court how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

It made me stronger mentally for sure and it also made me get things done and not procrastinate.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August. How excited are you to show your abilities in front of GM’s and coaches?

Very excited, I miss German hoops.

How excited are you to be playing in Germany? What do you know about the country and it’s basketball? Have you had friends or ex opponents or teammates play there?

I’m very excited, like I said I love the basketball atmosphere in Germany. I know that it’s very competitive and people love basketball in Germany. Yes, I know quite a few people that’s played in Germany and actually done some big things. Most of them I’ve played with or against in high school

You are good friends with Howard Hoops Combine founder Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.). You were part of his tours years ago and he helped you get the Offenbach job. How blessed are you to know this gentleman?

Ron is a good dude, that’s my boy. We’ve been knowing each for a long time.

Ronald Howard is a legend. He is the voice for the unknown players wanting to get a job overseas. What kind of relationship do you have with him and what do you appreciate most about his character.

Like I stated previously I’ve known him for a while and we have the same passion to help people and see people be their best.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 6,2 guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I don’t compare to any NBA player, I like certain things about people’s games and just try to work on that skill.

Talk a little about your game. Talk a bit about your biggest strengths on the court. What other abilities do you have besides knowing how to score the ball?

I think my IQ is one of my strengths, defense and passing the ball.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most so you can continue to grow as a player?

There is not really one thing I work on the most. I try to work on every skill needed.

You played at St Paul College (NCAA2). Talk a little about your time there. How do you feel did you profit most from your time there?

My time at St. Paul’s was one of a kind for sure. We had a very close team, definitely the closest team I’ve ever been on, I didn’t have a typical college career for someone who wanted to be pro, but I always knew what my goal was. I think I learned I had another gear and I loved the work.

In your younger days you played against Chris Paul. What memories do you have of those battles?

We didn’t play against each other in high school a lot, but we played in the same YMCA league since we were 5 years old. It was always competitive not just with him, but a lot of the guys I grew up with we were all highly competitive. And most of them turned out to be pros as well.

Who was the best player that you ever battled that went to the NBA?

Julius Hodge. At the time I played against him had never seen a 6’7′ point guard.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Tristan Rankin, Laron Daniels, Maurice Boatwright, Antonio Hargrove, Franklin Studivant

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

MJ, Kobe, Lebron, Magic

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

They are 2 different players, I won’t compare them. Two totally different games.

What was the last movie that you saw?

A movie called The Last Shift. About a guy that was an aspiring writer that had just gotten out of jail and was forced to work at a fast food restaurant.

Thanks Jamaal for the chat.

Job Alexander (193-G-97) is a 23 year old 193 cm guard from Milwaukee, Wisconsin that is taking part at the 2021 Howard Hoops Combine. He began his basketball career at Marquette University High School. He then played at Trinidad State Junior College (JUCO) from 2016-2018 playing a total of 59 games averaging 7.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 15.4%, FT: 68.1% as a freshman and 12.1ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.6apg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 68.0% in his second year. He then transferred to Cal Poly – San Luis Obispo University (NCAA) where he played from 2018-2020 playing a total of 59 games averaging 5.1ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 46.3%, FT: 49.0% as a junior and 4.1ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.4apg as a senior. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

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

At the moment I am in Milwaukee, WI where I was born. Basketball life has pretty much been pro runs at 7am about 5 days a week to compete and sharpen my game so I would consider that great.

Before we get to basketball, please talk how you got the name Job. This is a name I have never heard before and I’m sure your parents had a special reason for naming you like this.

It is a name that my parents liked from the bible and got inspired by an older cousin of mine.

You finished school in 2020 and are still looking for that first pro gig. Despite COVID being active, did you find a normal job during the day while working on your craft at night?

For the most part I did not seek a normal job and I am currently working a basketball ball camp for younger kids as a way to get some side money.

How big is your urge to become a professional player? Is the chip on your shoulder big having played JUCO?

Becoming a professional player is something I have dreamed about since a young kid but it became real my senior year in high school when I put together a path for me to make it. I turned down some division 2 scholarships to go JUCO and prove I could play at the highest level. That being said, the chip has always been on my shoulder.

Let’s talk a little about COPVID-19. What were the biggest challenges for you during this time? Was it tougher keeping that normal work out routine?

The biggest challenge was finding places to play 5v5. For the most part I always had access to weights and a court but due to regulations that was probably the longest I went in my life without playing full court. I also used this time to do more core work and spend more time stretching.

With everything that you have experienced during COVID-19 off the court how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

It really put things into perspective and not to take anything for granted. I got to spend a lot of time with my family as well which has limited since I started playing basketball in college.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August. How excited are you to show your abilities in front of GM’s and coaches?

I’m very excited because I haven’t played in a game since my last college game and I understand how big of an opportunity this is. Very eager to start my professional career and knowing that GM’s and coaches will be at the event, I couldn’t ask for more.

How excited are you to be playing in Germany? What do you know about the country and it’s basketball? Have you had friends or ex opponents or teammates play there?

This will only be my second time being out of the country and I do not know much about basketball and Germany besides Dirk. I do not think I know anyone that has played in Germany.

How did you get in contact with Howard Hoops Combine founder Ron Howard? Did you find him or did he find you?

My coach at Cal Poly my senior year (John Smith) put us in contact right after the season ended.

Ron Howard is a legend. He is the voice for the unknown players wanting to get a job overseas. What kind of relationship do you have with him and what do you appreciate most about his character.

I look at him as a mentor just as much as I do an agent. What most stood out to me about him was that he played overseas 9+ years himself which is not true of most agents or even athletes for that matter.

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

I think my best comparison is Jrue Holiday based off him being a big guard and playmaker. My size and athleticism also allows me to be a very versatile and elite on-ball defender. I also like the Jrue Holiday comparison because I feel he can do everything on the court his team needs him to do whether it be score, make plays, or defend.

Talk a little about your game. You are a player that can fill up the stat sheet with ease. Would you call yourself a very versatile player?

Versatile is one of the first words that comes to mind because I’ve been asked to do so many things on the court. I have always played point guard growing up so handles and vision is natural. Growing to be 6’4, athletic with long arms I spent a decent amount of time on the wing as well. I like both positions because without the ball I can get out in transition where I thrive, and I can still make plays from anywhere on the court. In the half court I thrive in pick and roll. I use my size advantage to come off screens on good angles to attack. With my defender compromised I have a great feel on when to score it and when to read where the help is coming from to find open teammates.

How much pride do you take on the defensive end? Do you feel like you could be that lock down defender at the professional level?

I take a lot of pride on the defensive end and I think it stems from playing king of the court (3 dribbles) so much. The only way to get the ball is to get a stop without fouling and without help defense. I take that same mentality when I am play on-ball defense in the game which is that I have to get a stop and the advantage is that I will have help in the game. With my height, instincts and crazy wingspan (6’9′) I know I can be a lockdown defender at the professional level.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most so you can continue to grow as a player?

Working on extending my range and getting shots off faster to space the floor even more.

You began your college career at Trinidad State Junior College (JUCO). Every player that I have interviewed that played JUCO have stated that JUCO was very tough, but an experience they would never have traded for anything. Was it the same for you?

JUCO basketball definitely tested my love for the game of basketball and exposed my mental toughness and determination. Trinidad State like most JUCOS is in the middle of nowhere and I rarely got to go home. This time at Trinidad made me a better basketball player and taught me how to grind for whatever I want. I would not trade this time in my life for anything.

You really improved your three points shooting in JUCO. What was the biggest reason for such a huge rise in shooting percentage?

I would say the biggest reason was that me and my juco coach (Mike Folda) would get shots up in the morning before I had class the fall semester my sophomore year and continued throughout the season. We would warm up on midrange and then catch and shoot threes (stand still and relocated).

You then played two seasons with Cal Poly – San Luis Obispo University (NCAA) playing 57 NCAA games. What kind of experience was it playing in the NCAA and how do you feel did your game grow in those two years?

Playing at the D1 level means playing against a lot of taller and more athletic players. My game grew because the better defense, detailed scouts, and just overall talent forces players to become more methodical on the court. In the two years I learned to really think the game through even playing at a fast pace

Was your 15/6/6 game in the 71-45 blow out over Riverside one of your strongest personal games in the NCAA?

In the blowout against Riverside I remember starting off the game scoring right away which had me playing aggressive and stuffing the stat sheet.

How did head coach John Smith groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Smith helped me with my preparation for games, practices, and longevity. He stressed the importance of dedicating more time to film of both myself and upcoming teams. He also helped my before and after basketball practices with jump rope and stretch routines.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Junior Ballard?

Me and JR have played a lot of one on ones but I probably won the one you are talking about.

Who was the best player that you ever battled that went to the NBA?

I played against Malik Monk back in AAU but most recently played Malachi Flynn when he was on San Diego State.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Harrison Cleary (AAU)
Jr Ballard (Cal Poly)
Colby Rogers (Cal Poly)
Donovan Fields (Cal Poly)
Nolan Wright (H.S)

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

All-Time:Current:
LebronLebron
JordanKD
KobeHarden
MagicCurry

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

Lebron James

What was the last movie that you saw?

Space Jam 2

Thanks Job for the chat.

                When I mention the name Mike Tobey to Belgium national player Sam Van Rossom, you instantly hear his voice change to pure enjoyment. The American and Belgium guard will be going into their fifth season together with Spanish ACB club Valencia Basket and memories between them are as long as being stuck in traffic on interstate 405 in Los Angeles, California. I reach Sam Van Rossom on a mild August day in Germany while he is enjoying his summer in his homeland Belgium in Oostende. For the third straight season his ACB season ended in the semi-finals and one has to wonder if each summer, it is a bit more difficult to digest not making the final. “It doesn´t really annoy me. We know how tough the competition is and that all want to win. It is never easy to break through to the final. We aren´t frustrated but just try to be realistic and analyse what happened so we can doit  better the next time”, warned Sam Van Rossom.  The hottest topic at the moment besides the Los Angeles Lakers gobbling up Russell Westbrook and Carmelo Anthony and who will be next has been the Summer Olympics and the basketball tournament. He has watched some games, but the time difference has been a pain in the butt. He has been watching games that have been available on Belgium television. He has only had two teammates that currently are at the Olympics and both play with Slovenia with Klemin Prepelic and friend ex NBA player Mike Tobey who received a Slovenian passport in 2021 and instantly became a teammate of one of the worlds current best players Luka Doncic. Sam Van Rossom has watched Doncic and Tobey play together at the Olympics and sees how well they are harmonizing. He has played together with so many great players that he isn´t jealous that Mike Tobey can practice and celebrate success with Luka Doncic. He also knows that soon his teammate will be back in Valencia and he is 100% confident he won´t flinch when he has to play with him again. He also has a very nice sense of humor concerning Mike Tobey. “Mike is a very good pick and roll player and is a good shooter. He has used the space very well that Luka has been giving him. They play very well together. I don´t think Mike will want to play with me anymore when he returns”, laughed Sam Van Rossom.

Mike Tobey who remembers Nigerian national and NBA player Jahlil Okafor being his toughest foe in the NCAA was born on October 10, 2004 and began his basketball career at Blair Academy where he averaged 21,0ppg and grabbed 9,0 rpg as a senior. He then proceeded to play at the well known University of Virginia(NCAA) from 2012-2016 where he played a total of 136 games. In his four seasons there, he never averaged better than 7,2ppg, but was an important role player helping the school win an ACC title and reach the NCAA Elite 8 and Sweet 16. “Winning the ACC tournament was the biggest moment. The Elite 8 was a great run, but I still have a sour taste not reaching the NCAA Final 4”, said Mike Tobey in 2017. One of his best games was by far his 15 points and 20 rebounds explosion in the 68-46 victory against Louisville. He was lucky to be teammates with NBA player Malcolm Brogdon who taught him something about hard work and to fight back after injuries. “Malcolm was an unbelievable hard worker. The first time I met him he had a broken foot. He worked so hard in the time that he was injured and continued so when he was healthy again. I am happy he is where he is today“, stated Mike Tobey in 2017. In order to be on top of his defensive game in Europe and at the 2021 Olympics, he got a good grip on what it meant to defend from his Virginia head coach Tony Bennett. “We played hard defense at Virginia. I didn´t really like to play defense before college. I feel I was able to improve my defense there and I knew how to play team basketball when I left”, remembered Mike Tobey in 2017.

The American who lists his personal NBA Mount Rushmore with guys Jordan, Lebron, Kareem and Larry Bird split his rookie seasons between the D-League team Greensboro Swarm where he averaged 12,0ppg and 9,0rpg and NBA team Charlotte where he played two games. The biggest challenge his rookie season wasn´t necessarily on the court. “The biggest challenge was the travel. Sometimes we had back to back games in different cities. The whole experience is a real grind where every player is trying to make a name night in and night out. It was very competitive. I would take the route again. That path depends on what situation is best for me”, stated Mike Tobey in 2017. He had no hard feelings that he only played 2 NBA games against Toronto and Detroit. He learned early that you have to understand one vital word business. “ I think no matter where you are be it in the NBA, G-League or Europe, it is a business everywhere. When you’re a professional you need to understand that it is a business”, warned Mike Tobey. One day he will be able to tell his grand children that he was teammates with NBA superstar Kemba Walker. The ex UConn great may not be a top 3 NBA point guard in 2021 even if Tobey thought he could get there in 2017. “I´m sure he could. In the short time that I was around him, I could see how much of a hardworker he was. He is very talented and produced a lot for the team. Anything is possible for him“, expressed Mike Tobey. He then finished the season with Valencia Basket playing 5 games. In the 2016-2017 season he played his first full season in the ACB with Iberostar Tenerife CB Canarias (Spain-Liga ACB) playing 35 games ACB averaging 11.1ppg, Reb-3(6.6rpg), FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 58.0%; and played 14 BCL averaging 13.5ppg, 7.0rpg, Blocks-5(1.1bpg), FGP: 65.8%, 3PT-1(66.7%), FT: 65.8%. It was by far his best professional season. He then moved to Valencia Basket in 2018 and has been with the team ever since and will be playing a 5th season with them.

In his first season in the ACB with Tenerife he played against Real Madrid 4 times and lost each game, but played extremely well especialy in the tough two game playoff series where he had 21 points and 9 boards in a 83-73 loss and then had a brilliant 18 points and 16 rebounds in a tough 84-75 loss. Now three years later Mike Tobey and Luka Doncic are teammates with the Slovenian national team after securing the passport in 2021. Slovenia is 4-0 going into the exciting semi-final clash against France today and the nation has had an overall invincible team effort. They have received great support from NBA player Zlatko Cancar, Klemen Prepelic of Valencia and Zoran Dragic of Baskonia, but one can say the two best players for them have been Luka Doncic and Mike Tobey who have formed a lethal one two punch. Doncic as usual is playing like he is from another planet as currently he is averaging a ridiculous 26,3ppg, 10,0rpg and 8,0apg while Mike Tobey averaged 14,0ppg, 7,5rpg and shot a crazy 63% from outside during the Olympic qualifying tournament and currently is averaging 11,5ppg, 12,5rpg and 2,3apg at the Olympic tournament. It is obvious that the big man´s game is hugely benefiting from Doncic´s presence on the floor. “Mike´s game is really profiting from the attention Luka is getting and his dangerous drive. This way Mike can use the alley-oop, his short range game and three. This makes it a lot harder for the opponent to defend him”, warned Sam Van Rossom. The two time Eurocup winner is really looking forward to watching Tobey and Slovenia battle France. “It will be a good game. Both teams are real close to each other. Slovenia has been cruising and dominated most teams except Spain. France on the other hand are playing well. They are deep and play physical. If France find some ways to stop Doncic, then they could have some options to win”, stated Sam Van Rossom. He also doesn´t see team USA having a cake walk over Australia. “I think it will be close. Team USA struggled at the start, but have recovered. At the start of the Olympics I would of said that USA can´t win, but now it will depend on how they feel that day and if shots fall. Australia play well together and play physical. The difference will be small between the team that wins. I don´t have that feeling that you had years ago where USA was invincible and could beat everyone. Kevin Durant said it in an interview that nobody is afraid to play USA”, warned Sam Van Rossom. It will be interesting to see how much the game of Mike Tobey will profit from playing at the Olympics. In 53 Euroleague games, he put up solid 9,0ppg and 4,0rpg which is nice but not great, but in the Euroleague nobody puts up crazy staggering stats, but could Tobey take another step with his game this season in the Eurocup? “I have to disagree with you. I think if you translate his stats over 40 minutes, then they would be very impressive. He has been our back up at the five and I feel he and Bojan Dubljevic compliment each other well. Mike has a name in Europe. I hope that he can keep growing and make new steps in the Eurocup. He is only 26 years old. There is still a lot of time. I feel that he will keep evolving”, stressed Sam Van Rossom.

Sam Van Rossum is a Valencia Basket lifer and going into his ninth season while Mike Tobey also can call Valencia his second home as he is going into his fifth season with them. When the ex University of Virginia(NCAA) center first came to Valencia in March 2017, he and Van Rossom right away had to gel. “We were both hurt and spent a lot of time together in the weight room. He is so easy going. We have always had a very good relationship. He is one of those guys that is liked by everyone. He is a great person”, commented Sam Van Rossom. Tobey is the type of player that will make any point guard anywhere and in any system just smile or lead him to rave on about his play. He just makes the basketball life for Van Rossom so much easier. “I can do so much with him. If it´s throwing up the lob to beat the big on the pick and roll, or get him on the short role or pick and pop. He is such a complete player. He is always a constant threat against the defense. He has helped me read the pick and roll a lot better. We profit from each other”, said Sam van Rossom. The American has proved that he has been a modern big man since years mainly because he has developed a dangerous outside shot. He has improved his three point percentage each season in the ACB as last season he reached the 40% mark and  wasn´t far behind in the Euroleague hitting 39%. The game in the post is eroding more and more as the big man has the complete package. Van Rossom has seen his development in Valencia since day one. “He adapted to Europe very well coming from the D-League. He understood his role really well and I think he made more steps on the defensive end than on the offensive end. Obviously his offense has been very good. It is even better now with his three pointer. He is always able to open up the court and help your team play in a good way. He is always able to bring something when he is on the court and always helps your team”, warned Sam Van Rossom. It is never easy to pick that one greatest moment, but when you remember the 2019 Valencia Eurocup title, then you can be sure that that is way up on the list. “It is always nicest when you win the title or a big game. That is bigger than that one alley-oop”, expressed Sam Van Rossom. When you have played so many games together finding that special best play can´t be difficult. Good for Sam Van Rossom that he remembered a remarkable play between him and Tobey last season to make his choice not as difficult. “I remember playing against FC Barcelona. It was a side pick and role with Mike. It was good timing. All went well”, stated Sam Van Rossom. No matter if Slovenia wins a medal or not, one thing is for sure, the unique and breathtaking plays between Van Rossom and Tobey will continue to dazzle fans in 20-21. Nobody will ever get sick of the lethal alley-oop between Sam Van Rossom and Mike Tobey.

Timothy Burnett is an American guard that played at Fulton Montgomergy Community College. He is aspiring to become a professional player overseas. He is taking part at the 2021 Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August 2021. He spoke to eurobasket about his basketball career.

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

This ain’t a really good part of my life right now a lot of trials came with staying out of the basketball life and it’s been a bit hard but just staying focused on task of the goal to be a professional basketball player was never not a focus.

You finished school at Fulton Montgomery Community. How have you been keeping busy the last years outside of basketball? Did you get a 9-5 job to help pay the bills?

Yes I started to work with my uncle’s company in the construction business for a year and a half just to keep myself busy staying out the basketball life and most importantly helping my mom with the bills because I’m the oldest of 7 boys so it was a priority to take care of the bills in the house when needed.

Were you able to use your college degree to get into the job field that you wanted?

I majored in business and athletic training to pursue my associates degree but unfortunately because of COVID-19 I couldn’t finish out. But it didn’t stop me from getting the position I wanted in that job field.

How much desire do you have to become a professional athlete? And what do you think held you back from becoming a professional athlete thus far ?

My desire to be a professional athlete is everything it’s all I ever dreamed of as kid , It’s my biggest accomplishment in my life and would mean everything to achieve. I feel like what held me back from being a professional basketball athlete was myself honestly, not being fully focused and not taking advantages of great opportunities that came my way . I feel like not putting myself on that stage to being seen plays a big part and I’m taking full advantage of this opportunity.

Let’s talk a little about COVID-19. What were the biggest challenges for you during this time? Was it tougher keeping that normal work out routine?

One of the biggest challenges of COVID-19 was not being able to play basketball as much as I was in college and having daily routines so at first it was difficult. Then I learned to adjust keeping up to my daily routine as COVID-19 was going on working out at home , running doing a lot of calisthenics keeping my body in shape then I was getting back to normal workouts as it went on.

With everything that you have experienced during COVID-19 off the court how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

COVID-19 helped me a lot with mindset especially being off the court, it taught me if the world shut down right now how would you be able to do better for yourself and never take anything for granted. When your pursuing to be something you have to go 10000% at all times because you never know when it could be taken from you. As a man this COVID-19 structured me to better physically and mentally and to be more wise most importantly just staying focused on your goal in life be the best at it.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August. How excited are you to show your abilities in front of GM’s and coaches?

It’s honestly an honor and a blessing for me to be able to show my talent and to even have these GMs and coaches even take time out of their busy schedule to see if I’m worthy. Because you don’t get opportunities like these so when these chances come knocking on your door your got to give it your all, I’m excited to just show my talent and show I’m ready and what type of player I am on and off the floor.

How excited are you to be playing in Germany? What do you know about the country and it’s basketball? Have you had friends or ex opponents or teammates play there?

I’ve never been out of the country in my whole entire life so this is a first I’m just humbled and blessed to get the opportunity to show my talents on the other side of the map. Germany is a tough country so I know they are competitive, so it’s going to be fun and interesting Brooklyn competitive and aggressive so I don’t expect nothing less.

How did you get in contact with CEO and founder Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.)? Did he find you or did you find him?

Coach Japhet McNeil posted on his Facebook at the time of the opportunity so when I saw it I sent him message hoping he would answer back and then we d numbers. From there I was introduced to coach Ronald Howard so I found him and then we exchanged numbers as well. He gave me more details on this event , how it can change my life if I come there and do what I got to do.

Ronald Howard is a legend. He is the voice for the unknown players wanting to get a job overseas. What kind of relationship do you have with him and what do you appreciate most about his character.

Coach Ronald Howard I don’t really have too much of a big relationship with him we spoke a couple times over the months ,but he’s a up standing guy , he tells you how it is more than tell you what you want to hear. I respect that in a person as far as how I go about things so to see a guy I don’t know from a whole in the world is the same way is an honor. The most I appreciate about Coach Ronald Howard‘s character is his honestly , he tells you straight up gives you both sides of this basketball stuff how it can go if you take the right steps and how it can go if you don’t work hard and he cares about his guys so when somebody cares about you they tell you the truth instead of telling you what you want to hear.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 175cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I don’t like to compare myself to other NBA players I feel like I have my own playing style on both sides of the floor and I don’t take off plays. But if I had to compare myself or see glimpses I would say Kemba Walker. I’m crafty like to get to my spots, I can score, pass make others around me better and I’m aggressive and I want to win.

Talk a little about your game. Your ultimate strength is that you will do anything to win. Would it be correct to say that you have a heart of gold?

I wouldn’t say heart of gold I would put in my words as heart of a lion. I don’t fear no one and when I’m on that floor nothing is stopping me from putting that ball in the basket Anything my team and my coach needs I will do to get that win. Making others better and winning is my game.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most so you can continue to grow as a player?

My footwork being a lot more explosive and being more of a consistent shooter. Being a lot more crafty with the strong hand and the off hand.

You played at Fulton Montgomery Community College. Talk a little about your time there. How do you feel did you profit most from your time there?

Playing and being at Fulton Montgomery Community College really matured my game and my mindset as far as life and what I want to be in life. I feel like I profited the most of my time being there was structure and time balanced. College taught me to know what you want and not to waste no time on what your pursuing. I Matured when I went to college it helped me stay focused and know my main goal in life.

Who was the best player that you ever battled that went to the NBA?

Moses Brown from the Boston Celtics we’ve played AAU together played against each other , Future lottery pick (James Bouknight ) Cam Reddish , G league player Tremont Waters it’s couple more of those guys but these are the ones that stand out and that really compete.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My 3 brothers Marcus Burnett , James Burnett & Ezra Burnett and my uncle Kyle Giddings and my friend that passed away Theodore Senior

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

Michael Jordan , Kobe Bryant ,Shaquille O’Neil , Allen Iverson definitely going to throw Kevin Durant in there. By the time he is finished he will one of if not the best ever and plus he’s my favorite player.

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

Michael Jordan for sure just because his approach of the game and how it came at it , just being so dominant at that time of basketball one and two as a basketball player and going three straight on both times before retiring and coming back. That’s legendary.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Space jam 2

Thanks Timothy for the chat.

T

Camerron Cauley is a guard that went to Northern New Mexico Community College and American college. He is taking part at the 2021 Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August 2021. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I am at the best place as of right now basketball is treating me very well I am happy to see what comes next and am ready.

There are quite a few guys with the name Cameron Cauley, but none have the double r in the first name. Talk a little about the uniqueness of your first name.

I got my name from my grandmother she is always Unique with naming all the grandkids in the family she always came up with something nobody had seen or heard.

You have been looking and aspire to be a professional player. Have you had any professional experience?

I always wanted to play professional basketball all my life I never played in a professional league but I played against players that have been in the league so I’m aware how physical it is. This will be a dream come true.

Despite COVID being active, have you had a normal job during the day while working on your craft at night?

Yes I had a job but I tried my best to work on my craft and my shot even if I had to go to the park I put in work and you can’t be great if you don’t put the work in.

How big is your urge to become a professional player? Is the chip on your shoulder big having played JUCO?

This is very big to me all of people don’t get this opportunity to go to another country and show the talent. I wouldn’t say I have a chip on my shoulder but they got to watch out I got a lot of dog in me

Let’s talk a little about COPVID-19. What were the biggest challenges for you during this time? Was it tougher keeping that normal work out routine?

It was definitely a challenge. Gym’s were closed and I couldn’t get the exercise as I normally do and it put a lot of stress on me but I got through it.

With everything that you have experienced during COVID-19 off the court how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

COVID-19 was a big dealbreaker. Many family members got sick but my family stayed strong and we all got through it together and It made all of us stronger.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August. How excited are you to show your abilities in front of GM’s and coaches?

I’m very excited as this will be my first time playing on a Professional stage This is what I worked hard for to get right here. I can’t wait to show the world who Camerron Cauley is.

How excited are you to be playing in Germany? What do you know about the country and it’s basketball? Have you had friends or ex opponents or teammates play there?

I’m very excited this is new to me and I really never heard of Germany but I heard of a lot of different other places I have a couple friends that have played in China Mexico and some other places but never Germany I heard great things about Germany.

How did you get in contact with Howard Hoops Combine founder Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.)? Did you find him or did he find you?

I got in contact with Howard Hopes through an old coach I played for After COVID-19 hit my college career went on hold and that’s how my old coach put me in contact with Howard Hoops and told me this will be the greatest opportunity for me to play professional.

Ronald Howard is a legend. He is the voice for the unknown players wanting to get a job overseas. What kind of relationship do you have with him and what do you appreciate most about his character.

I never met Howard in person yet but I love what he’s doing and giving a lot of basketball players opportunities to fulfill their dreams I hope our friendship can build more and more I appreciate the opportunity that he is giving me.

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

A lot of people say Play like Kyle Lowry because I can create my own shot and I shoot very well and can get to the basket I watch a lot of basketball videos of Lebron James. He makes everyone on the court better that’s what’s it’s all about

Talk about your strengths. Would it be fair to say that you’re a two way player at the guard position?

Definitely a two way player in my book. My father always told me if you can’t play defense your offense means nothing if you can score, create and play hard defense.

What would you classify as your absolute biggest strength on the court?

I say my biggest strength would be being more of a scorer and defensive player and getting my teammates open.

How much pride do you take on the defensive end? Do you feel like you could be that lock down defender at the professional level?

I take pride in my defense but there a lot of work needed to be done on my defense Especially at a high level

On what area’s of your game are you working on most so you can continue to grow as a player?

Getting to my spots knocking down shots most definitely being comfortable .

You played at Northern New Mexico Community College. What kind of experience was that for you and how did your game benefit most from it?

When I went to Northern I didn’t know what to expect at the time it was a little different but it did make me a better player and really learned the game. A lot of things were different It was all about me and it was about the team.

You also played at American College. What kind of experience was this for you and how did the coaching staff help develop your game most?

The coaching staff was amazing really helped me develop my games in ways I never thought

Who was the best player that you ever battled that went to the NBA?

There are a couple JR Giddens, Tony Snell, Cory Sanders, Antonio Blankly

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Braxton Daniel Bryce Alex Jalen

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

Lebron Curry AD Kobe Jordan

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

I say they are the greatest in the their own ways and they are in different era’s.
What was the last movie that you saw?

Space Jam 2

Thanks Camerron for the chat.

Tyler Dean (196-G) is a 196cm guard from Rome, Georgia. He began his basketball career at Southside Christian high school. He then played two years at State University of West Georgia and finished at the University of North Georgia (NCAA2) playing three seasons and played 69 games. His best season was in 2018-2019 where he averaged 6.3ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 26.5%, FT: 63.6%. He will take part at the Howard Hoops Combine in August 2021 in Germany. He spoke about his basketball career.

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

At the moment, I’m in Rome, Georgia, and basketball life has been okay. The gyms in Rome aren’t fully open yet, so I’ve had to improvise to try to stay in basketball shape.

You haven’t found a professional team since finishing at the University of North Georgia (NCAA2). How was the whole process for you in the last year trying to find a club or did you postpone it because of the difficulties with COVID?

I postponed it because of covid. But, I’ve been trying to stay in the best shape that I can until everything started opening up again.

How big has your urge been to be a professional player since leaving school? Why do you believe hasn’t your dream of being a professional player panned out?

Being a professional player has always been one of my dreams since I was a kid, and that same love for the game has not changed. I believe it didn’t really pan out is because of covid. I didn’t want to risk my health with everything that was going on.

Let’s talk a little about COPVID-19. What were the biggest challenges for you during this time? Was it tougher keeping that normal work out routine?

One of the biggest challenges was getting some shots up and actually getting to play. It was definitely tough trying to keep a routine since everything was closed down. So, I did a lot of running and shooting in my driveway a lot.

With everything that you have experienced during COVID-19 off the court how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

I do. 2020 has been really tough mentally. But persevering through all of the obstacles that came my way made me very tough minded.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August. How excited are you to show your abilities in front of GM’s and coaches?

I’m very excited it has been a minute since I’ve played organized basketball.

How excited are you to be playing in Germany? What do you know about the country and it’s basketball? Have you had friends or ex opponents or teammates play there?

I’m very excited! This is my first time ever leaving the U.S. in my whole life. One of my old teammates, Shaquan Cantrell, actually played out there for a year or two. And one thing he told me was that is to always play with a chip on my shoulder.

How did you get in contact with CEO and founder Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.)? Did he find you or did you find him?

One of friends, Korley Grier, told me about it and I immediately hit Ron up seeing if there were any spots available.

Ronald Howard is a legend. He is the voice for the unknown players wanting to get a job overseas. What kind of relationship do you have with him and what do you appreciate most about his character.

I don’t really know much about him. But I’ve seen what he has done to help players like me get an opportunity to keep doing what we love, and I appreciate him for that

What is your biggest goal at the Howard Hoops Combine besides getting a job overseas?

My biggest goal is to make sure I get better every day while I’m there, and to make connections with the people there.

How big is the chip on your shoulder? There are guys at this combine that have JUCO and NAIA experience, but you have played levels higher at the NCAA 2. Your drive must still be big because you didn’t play at the NCAA level.

I’ve always had to play with a chip on my shoulder. I’ve always had to fight for my minutes in college so I’m taking that mentally with me to Germany.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a guard that can take it to the hole, are a good spot up shooter and solid defender. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I couldn’t really tell you. I’ve heard different players, but I don’t know if I can pinpoint who I actually play like.

What other strengths do you have on the offensive end? What would you classify as your absolute biggest strength on the court?

I think one of my strengths offensively is reading the defense. I used to play point guard all the way up to my senior year in high school. And I think my biggest strength is being versatile. In college, I played and guarded every position.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most so you can continue to grow as a player?

One area that I’m working on is my creativity to create shots for me and others.

Despite that you were able to reach the NCAA 2 and played at State University of West Georgia (NCAA2) for two years. But also there you were unable to get minutes. How aggravating was it once again not being able to get minutes. How did this effect you mentally and how did you deal with it?

It was pretty aggravating because I never had to worry about that in high school. But I had to remember that I was only a freshmen at the time, and whenever my opportunity came to make the best of it.

You then finished at the University of North Georgia (NCAA2) playing 69 NCAA 2 games and was integrated better and one season averaged 6.3ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 26.5%, FT: 63.6%. How do you feel did your game mature here?

I think my game matured pretty well there. Being there helped my become a way better rebounder and being tough.

How did coaches Chris Faulkner and Chris Evans groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

They taught me to always go hard at all times, and to never quit.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Shawn Hopkins?

I actually don’t think me and him ever played one on one. But if we did I’m betting on myself.

Who was the best player that you ever battled that went to the NBA?

The best player I’ve played against had to have been Rui Hachimura

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My high school teammates: Dwight Hall and VJ Saxton.
My UNG teammates: Kj Jenkins he plays at New Mexico now. Shaqaun Cantrell.
My West Ga teammate: Steph Branch

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

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, and Allen Iverson

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

I’m always going with MJ. He’s the GOAT.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Space Jam 2

Thanks Tyler for the chat.

Niclas Geier (192-PG-02) is a 192cm German guard that will take part at the 2021 Howard Hoops Combine in Germany. He began his basketball career with the USC Heidelberg U19 Team (NBBL). In 2019-2020 he played 10 games averaging 12.6ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.1apg, 2.9spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 55.1%. Last season with the USC Heidelberg U19 Team (NBBL) he played only 2 games averaging 15.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, before COVID-19 ended his season. He also made his Pro A debut against PS Karlsruhe last season. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Niclas thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?
Thank you for having this interview with me. So far I am doing fine and working out every day. Besides working on my basketball skillset I enjoy lifting weights in the gym as well.
Your one of two Germans along with Adrian Worthey that is taking part at the 2021 Howard Hoops Combine. Over the years the Howard Hoops Combine has been dominated by American players. What prompted you to join the combine?
I was in contact with Japhet Mcneil who is also in the organization with Coach Howard. We talked about my current situation and about work outs in the off season. Japhet invited me to this Combine and gave me the opportunity to show my game, which I am thankful for.
Have you ever met Adrian Worthey or played against him. Are you looking forward to being his teammate?
As I can remember we played against each other in the first year of my NBBL career. We both played a great game so I think that he is a talented player, so I am excited to share the court alongside with him as well as the other American players.
You already have a huge advantage over the Americans since you have played in Germany. What advantages do you see having in taking part at the Howard Hoops combine?
Last year I was able to gain a lot of experience at the pro level in Heidelberg. I had tough competition every day in practice so I think this helped my development a lot. I think there will be good competition at the Combine as well, so my advantage would be that I was able to get used to pro players already.

Let’s talk a little about COVID-19. What were the biggest challenges for you during this time? Was it tougher keeping that normal workout routine?
To be honest the biggest challenge was not letting this Pandemic get in the way of me getting better. Of course a lot of gyms closed down during the year, but I tried to keep the same routine as I had before in the gym, which worked out fine.
How tough was it not being able to play the NBBL (U-19) league in 20-21. How disadvantageous do you believe this will be for players. Will a season of not competition severely hurt the development of young players?
Not being able to play the 20-21 season in the NBBL was tough, because I couldn’t show my game on the court this year. However I was able play a good season the year before that, even being younger than the rest. I think players who didn’t have the chance of playing or practicing in another team will notice that it was bad for their development for the upcoming years. Personaly I would say you should try to get better every time and not let this be an excuse one day.
With everything that you have experienced during COVID-19 off the court how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?
I think it made me realize to value the time we spend with our friends and family as I couldn’t see everybody as often as usual throughout the years. I think it made me grow individually as well and made be even more mentally tough to stick with basketball.
You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August. How excited are you to show your abilities in front of GM’s and coaches?
I am very excited and thankful for this opportunity. I thank Coach Howard and Japhet Mcneil for this invitation. I can’t wait to step on the court, show my skillset and learn new things.
How did you get in contact with CEO and founder Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.)? Did he find you or did you find him?
As I mentioned before the whole idea of me joining the Combine started through Japhet Mcneil. He talked with Ronald Howard and let me participate in this year’s Combine.
Ronald Howard is a legend. He is the voice for the unknown players wanting to get a job overseas. What kind of relationship do you have with him and what do you appreciate most about his character.
If I am being honest I have not met Ronald Howard personally yet, but all I can say is that I am excited for what this combine holds ad that he is a very supportive person.
What is your biggest goal at the Howard Hoops Combine?
My biggest goal as always is to get better every day and learn new skills. I also want to meet the other players and get to know them on and off the court. You never know if you play with one of these players in the future as there will be a lot of talent.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 192cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?
My coaches always tell me that they would compare me to Damian Lillard. His leadership is off the charts and when it comes to scoring options I think the comparison fits the best. I am a good defender as well, so I think Lillard is the best comparison.
At the NBBL level you have put up solid stats. Talk a little about your game and biggest strength on the court?
I would describe my game like being an athletic point guard that can score out of many options. I like to use my speed to get to the basket or set my teammates up for an open shot. I can score from distance as well and play good on ball defense. I can read the game and use my vision to set up my team.
You’re a very talented defender. What do you believe is your biggest strength on the defensive end?
I appreciate that. Personally I think my biggest strength on the defensive end is that I can anticipate the attacker’s next step and read their game which is my advantage to press on ball, force a bad and late pass or get a steal.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to grow as a player?
As I want to compete at the Pro level more and more I have to prepare my body for much older players. So I think working on my stability and athletic strength is an important part in my development.
You began your career with the USC Heidelberg U19 Team (NBBL) What kind of experience has it been playing there and what steps did your game take especially in the NBBL?
I started playing in Heidelberg when I was 14. So I went through almost every age group there is. With 15 I spent one year in North Carolina where I could see the American way to teach basketball. Playing in Heidelberg was always fun because I played with many friends of mine. In the NBBL I learned to be a leader especially on the Point Guard Position. Very significant at the higher level is to control the pace in the game which is not as important in the younger ages. So I think learning to control the game and the pace was a big step for my development.
How important has NBBL coach Moritz Naegele and Noschrevan Tavhelidse been in your early development? What do you believe was the most important thing that you could gain from their guidance?
Early in my first year of the NBBL both of them gave me a lot of confidence, which helped me to play the way I like. I think from Moritz I learned lot individually about how to be a better player, especially different technique approaches for the shot or ball handling were important from him. Noschrevan was a mentor for me through the last two years on and off the court. We spent a lot of time in the gym and he helped me to build my strengths on the court. So I am very thankful that I had these two coaches in my early career.

Despite COVID being a pest, could you profit by practicing with Pro A team MLP Academics? Talk a little about playing with men and how it helped your game last season
It was a very exciting experience. I learned a lot from all the older players which took me in the team better than I could imagine. The whole team chemistry was awesome and the spirit we had was perfect. I was able to play against the best guards in the league every day in practice. This helped me develop very much and was an important step for my career.
You played your first Pro A game against Karlsruhe playing two minutes. What memories do you have breathing your first Pro A minute?
It was awesome to be on the Pro court my first time. Of course I was a bit nervous when the coach called my name, but I think it was more the excitement of playing on this level. I mean this will always be a great memory to hear my name from the announcer, especially because the other players were happy for me which helped me to be ready.
Talk a little how beneficial point guards Shy Ely and Niklas Wuerzner have been for your develop? Have they been like mentors for you?
Both of them are great guys. I mean Shy the MVP taught me so much from the first minute. He talked a lot to me and gave me tips on how to do certain things different and better. I could watch his game every time and still find some new things to adopt into mine. Niklas Wuerzner was also a great guy I learned a lot from. He especially helped me to understand different parts of the game better and was a great guy off the court as well. I think both of them were mentors to me as well as the other guards like Jordan Geist and Sa’eed Nelson. Everyone taught me different things and options to help me be a better player.
Who was the best player that you ever battled that went to play in higher leagues in Germany?
From my standpoint the toughest battles I had were against Jordan Geist and Sa’eed Nelson which I faced in practice every day when I played for the MLP Academics Heidelberg.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Those would be Shy Ely, Jordan Geist, Sa’eed Nelson, Niklas Wuerzner and Shaun Willet.
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?
Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or LeBron James?
I can only say one name: Michael Jordan. End of debate.
What was the last movie that you saw?
I think the last movie I saw was ‘Snowpiercer’, which was recommended to me by my good friend Sa’eed Nelson. Go watch it!

Thanks Niclas for the chat

If your in an arena in Germany and have your ears on properly in radar mode, it is very possible you could hear a Japhet McNeil (183-PG-85, college: Bridgeport) smooth talking someone even when your in a line dreaming of sinking your teeth into a juicy German Hot Dog. Even if your totally preoccupied as your watching a food stand attendant prepare the scrumptious Hot Dog, you will notice Japhet McNeil no matter what. Even if you don’t know him personally, just seeing him in front of you in his modern threads, massive wide simile and hearing his mesmerizing words, you could easily think that back in the day he was one of those guys that was loved in school and was popular. His smooth talking is something everyone notices. ‘My wife tells me that! I guess that’s from growing up in the heart of New York City. When I attended East Carolina Univ. The Southern people would say ‘ Jah your talking to fast ‘ and I would reply ‘ I’m not talking to fast, your just listening to slow’, laughed Japhet McNeil. Japhet and I go way back and still have a nice relationship today after having first met during his rookie season in 2008-2009 when he balled for USC Heidelberg. I remember watching a game between TV Langen and USC Heidelberg and seeing his dazzling basketball talent for the first time. USC Heidelberg was a team that had another young and talented player named Jibril Hodges who is the son of NBA champion, NBA three point contest winner and Michael Jordan teammate of the early 90’s Craig Hodges. The team also had a very young Danilo Barthel who currently is one of the big guns for the German national team at the Olympics in Japan. The American knew early on that Danilo Barthel was special. ‘Sometimes when you see a kid and he has the goods you know he got that ‘IT’ Danillo Barthel had it’, remembered Japhet McNeil. We met and understood each other masterfully and over the years a nice friendship developed as well as various interviews that today stands at 8. The first interview we did together was in 2009 and how could he forget when I invited him to my weekly basketball radio for Radio Fortuna in 2009 which at that time was the first ever weekly basketball radio show on German radio. ‘8 .That’s the Number!!! 2009. Woooow!!! That’s a blessing. I’m all about longevity. Father time is definitely undefeated. I Remember our first interview like it was yesterday. It was in Frankfurt. The set up was really cool. It reminded me of a radio station room. You gifted me a bottle of wine or maybe it was Sekt. Your hospitality was on point. I remember my girlfriend at the time, who is my wife presently accompanying me and she kept saying how cool the experience was on our way back to the city I lived in at that time. Honestly I’ve lost count on how many. But I do know that every time we’re able to chop it up about basketball and life. It’s always real. I truly enjoy our encounters and I appreciate and thanks your continued support and allowing me to express myself over the years! You mean a lot to the basketball community and I’m glad I’m able to share my continued journey through your journalism!! Your a legend Miles stay blessed’, stressed Japhet McNeil. I love meeting Japhet again in arena’s and it has happened on occasion in the last years in Frankfurt in Bonn. I’m always amazed to witness everyone that he knows. I remember over the years when he would watch his buddy fellow New York native and former Euroleague and Seton hall great Jordan Theodore (his brother from another mother) or observe him conduct passionate talk about basketball with coach Joey King who worked under top German coach John Patrick. Mcneil’s smooth talking never eludes him and sometimes he inserts that special New Yorker language that I don’t understand. I always wondered why he didn’t go into acting. I could easily have seen him slip into the Eddie Murphy role in Beverly Hills Cop and watching him weasel out of jams. ‘That’s interesting you say that because I would love my daughters to go into acting. I’m a big movie guy. I watch all genres. Eddie Murphy is a big act to follow. He’s one of the Goats ( Greatest Of All Time ) I’m not sure if I can play Eddie but you better believe if I put my mind to it I can come close. To believe is to achieve’, warned Japhet McNeil. Instead of having gone the Hollywood route, he did something way better for the game of basketball. Instead of preaching on TV, he decided to keep preaching on the court.

Even if Japhet McNeil who remembers ex easyCredit BBL player Wayne Bernard being his toughest cover in his rookie season is 36 years old, he is still playing professional ball today even if it isn’t in the foreground anymore like usual as he has found another big Love called Combine Sports. He grew up in Brooklyn, New York and attended Christ The King High School where he led the team to a Catholic Division A title in 2003. He averaged 18,0ppg as a senior and finished with over 1,100 points and finished third on the school’s all-time assist list behind future NBA players Omar Cook and Erick Barkley. He then had a steady NCAA career at East Carolina from 2003-2006 where he played 81 games. He then finished at Bridgeport University where ex NBA 229Cm player Manute Bol played as he averaged 16.6ppg, 4.0rpg, 4.9apg, StealsNCAA2-1 (4.0spg), FGP: 38.3%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 67.3%. He began his professional career in 2008 in Germany with USC Heidelberg averaging 14.8ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-1 (7.9apg), Steals-1 (3.5spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 24.1%, FT: 63.3%. He belonged to the top players in the German Pro A and after that would carve out a solid professional career. He brought his talent to Finland to Kori-Konkarit Loimaa (Finland-1st Division) and also played two seasons for Schieren Black Frogs (Luxembourg-N2). But somehow he found a second home in Germany where he would always come back to and play. He also had experience with teams BG Karlsruhe (Pro A),BSW Sixers (Pro B), 1 FC Kaiserslauteren (Regionalliga) and DJK Nider-Olm (Regionalliga 2). Despite his age, he has always kept in shape mainly because of his new baby and business Combine Sports which has allowed him to still compete and play the game he cherishes. ‘I am still playing professional. I say that proudly because the journey hasn’t been easy you constantly have to find ways to reinvent yourself because it’s a young man’s sport. Off course you can play at an older age but your glory days are when your in your early to late twenties. The body recovers faster. Younger legs. You have less responsibility in life. The list goes on. The last team I was signed to was DJK Nieder-Olm. Regionaliga-2. Due to COVID 19 we were not able to play a full season. For a numerous amount of reasons I decided that playing at a lower level in Germany would be beneficial for the current phase I am in pertaining to my life’, stated Japhet McNeil.

So let’s fast forward to 2021. At the moment as usual Japhet McNeil who remembers ex NBA players Travis Diener and Darius Washington being his toughest covers in the NCAA is in Germany and has declined to take a trip back home to New York to visit family and friends as he has preferred to get a jump on some opportunities. ‘Basketball is great and has been great to me, I will continue to use basketball as a tool. The possibilities are endless’, warned Japhet McNeil. One of those great new opportunities has been teaming up with Ron Howard to form the Howard Hoops Combine which will run from August 5th to the 9th in Germany. Life has been extremely tough for everyone in the last year and a half with COVID and obviously has affected him in many ways which is very understandable. ‘First and foremost. I’d like to send out my condolences & prayers to the families that experienced losing a loved one / ones due to COVID 19. I Also want to highlight the people who was tested positive and was able to beat COVID 19. I had a few challenges with COVID 19 but the biggest challenge I’d say was not knowing. I’m thousands of miles away from my family & Parents. God forbid if any one of them would have came down with Covid. There’s NO WAY that I could get home and aid them. It was a zoo. Travel bans in full effect, hospitals wouldn’t allow family members to visit patients, you couldn’t even have a proper burial. Really tough time that our world experienced. I’m very happy that we are returning to a sense of Normalcy’, stressed Japhet McNeil. By nature he is a very upbeat human being who is always good for a joke and having a good time, but COVID also has given him time to reflect on serious things and helped him learn new things. ‘Going through this time period that I’ve encountered off the court with Covid made me appreciate the little things that we have in life. For example. Going to a restaurant of your choice, taking trips with family to see family, the option of going to the gym to hoop and most importantly the health of your loved ones. As a man I value those things a lot more and it taught me to never take life for granted’, warned Japhet McNeil.

Before becoming a part of the Howard Hoops Combine, the Queens native who has Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson and Lebron James on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore first had to build up Combine Sports something he has done successfully, but with COVID he met many new challenges. ‘Building my own business and brand was always part of my plan. My only problem was always being on the move. I never got the opportunity to sit down and actually map out the direction I wanted to go in because I was always chasing the next basketball contract. When COVID hit that forced me to sit down and really think about what’s next. Life after basketball. I had to find something that I was just as passionate about and for most athletes that’s not an easy task. This COVID period gave me some time that I needed to get my mind right mentally. It allowed me to get my paper work in order so that I can gain Dual Citizenship. American & German Passports, I accomplished that. It also allowed me to spend quality time with my wife and daughters which validated the reason for me playing at a lower level with a less strenuous schedule. The COVID period allowed me to set the blueprint for my business / brand and execute. I began investing in the market. My main goal was to gain in life because it was so much time taken away due to our COVID 19 rough patch’, warned Japhet McNeil. He has built up Combine Sports steadily over the years and continues to build it up. It may not have been the best choice in his life now, but I bet it’s at second place tied with his wife. ‘What we do at Combine Sports is basketball skill development. I wanted to find a way to sculpt our younger generations through basketball. My intent is to introduce and instill the things I’ve learned from the game of basketball to all nationalities, to all people whether your black, blue, yellow, green, white, or orange!! In this world hate and racism still exist, but through competition and sports we become one. I’ve met some of my closest friends from competing on the basketball court and they had different backgrounds, had different beliefs, dressed differently and spoke differently as well. The one thing we had in common was our will to be better basketball players and our will to win. A Universal language!!! I’ve learned so much by being open minded and it made me a better leader, player, trainer, person, father, son, friend, Husband. Hopefully I can spread that amongst the people I encounter with Combine Sports. – The best Choice I could have made at this phase in life is Josie and Jiana Mcneil. My daughters. Everything stems from them. They are the reason why I work smarter & harder’, warned Japhet McNeil. Some guys go into coaching or get normal 9-5 jobs while others just want to remain on the court and help the youth of today get better. ‘I love to develop and train players. I’m very passionate about it. Basketball has been my job ever since I can remember. I got free gear, free trips, through AAU, my tuition paid in full at Christ the King High School b/c of basketball. Awarded a full athletic scholarship for college. A 12 year playing career as a professional athlete overseas. I wanted to find a way to stay in the field without feeling like it’s a job. I’m able to train players that I’ve competed against. Players that are still playing professional. I train JBBL Players as well as NBBL players here in Germany. Last week My bro Tyrone Nash a Notre Dame University standout that also played in the BBL here in Germany called me up and booked some sessions. My BROSKI Jordan Theodore Ex Unics player, just signed to a team in Tokyo plans to come punch the clock with Combine Sports. I’m not big on name dropping because just as I look forward on training those great players, I’m looking forward to training my 8 year old client whose parents sacrifice their time. Drive them to and from the workout. Sit and watch the workout. Doing all of the above after working their 9-5 shift. The real MVP’s! The future for Combine Sports is to become a international household name for developing basketball players. I want to continue to build the brand. Grow my following with the Combine Sports Clothing brand. (Combine-Sport.Com ). I want to help young European basketball athletes attend High Schools and Universities on full athletic scholarships in America using my connections I’ve made throughout my career. I want to have the option of helping basketball athletes from America come play professional in Europe. The options are limitless. My short term goal is to invest in a location that I can build a Combine Sports Basketball lab. That’s the main problem in Germany. Resources. A Gym. A Vertimax machine, the shooting Gun machine, high quality modern training equipment that enables the athlete ETC. Once you own a space with a basketball court. You can set the bar!! Ownership!! That is the short term Goal’, stressed Japhet McNeil.

Networking is something that is done everywhere to help build connections and just help a product grow and with Japhet McNeil and Ron Howard coming together to join forces is a no brainer. Ron Howard is the God Father of helping unknown players and sometimes with no resumes help attain their dream of becoming a professional basketball player. Ron Howard also played professional ball in Europe at the same time as Japhet McNeil. Howard formed Howard Hoops in 2015 and the German basketball community is so small. but why did it take so long to come together? ‘Ron and I go way back. We used to see each other out all the time at events whether it was in Frankfurt or Kaiserslautern on and off the court. We had mutual friends. I respected his basketball mind and his will to help basketball players and he respected mine. We’ve had several conversations on where or what could we bring to the table together. Our main objective is to give back, to help the next person change their surroundings, change their lives through basketball. We came up with the Howard Hoops Combine. Your Right about that. The German basketball community is small. I guess it was more about timing. We are trying to recover from a pandemic. A lot of players lost out on opportunities to play overseas. Seasons for European basketball Clubs were affected by the pandemic tremendously. Sponsorships were cut. That means less money for budget. So many factors played apart. When you look around there’s not to many platforms that allows players to come display their talent and earn a professional contract to play overseas basketball. Not in Europe!!! Coaches in Europe or Club managers receive 25 emails with game film a day from different players and agents. That can be overwhelming for the club and coaching staff. A lot of players become lost in the pile of emails. We want to create and build an atmosphere where players can be seen or talked to directly by European coaches, agents, or club managers. With hopes of signing a contract to start their career or further their careers’, stated Japhet McNeil. It is too bad that they never actually faced off on the court. That would have been a brutal basketball battle. ‘ I heard Ron was a Dawg!! If he attacked his opponents like he does his goals then I have no doubts about his hooping ability!! He’s a lefty. Lefty’s are uncanny, very hard to guard’, said Japhet McNeil. The combination of Howard and Mcneil with their talent of finding players, placing them on pro teams and developing their skills is one of a kind. ‘Our Main Goal is to create a platform that basketball players can use to earn a professional contract to play overseas basketball. Not only Americans. We hope to have all nationalities. The best player for the job. We aim to build relationships with players, agents, agencies, club managers and coaches. To build trust worthy relations that if a player or team is needed we are able to help both parties. When it all boils down to having two individuals with a lot of experience in Europe that’s passionate about the game of basketball. Passionate about helping basketball players change their lives. Both platforms Howard Hoops and Howard Hoops Combine’s general purpose is to use basketball as a tool. Ron Howard has encountered and helped so many basketball players through and through. I have in different ways as well. Now we are Combining our powers as a unit to continue to push the basketball culture forward’, warned Japhet McNeil. The Howard HOOPS Combine will have the biggest roster ever and will play games against each other as well against German regionalliga teams Ibbenburen and Bigger See where German coaches and Gm’s will be in attendance to observe the raw talent.

Even with the Howard Hoops Combine being his biggest issue at the moment, the American is always good for giving his two cents on certain basketball topics and he is never short with his answers. Americans living in the states who never saw Luka Doncic develop in Europe with Real Madrid continue to be slow on giving him the deserved props on his ability. But if you ask American players in Europe who played against him years back and saw him play give him more respect. It isn’t any different with Japhet McNeil. But he doesn’t share the same opinion with me yet that he is currently a top 3 NBA player. ‘I’m Very high on Luka ‘Magic ‘Doncic. But what I’m not big on is giving a player that top 3 tag so easily. The basketball culture known for that. They love the New kid on the block ready and willing to give that top 3 tag away. For other great players they drag them through the mud to get that tag. They have to be Superman in order to get that top 3 tag. They pick and choose swayed by what have you done for me lately, it’s funny how quickly sports fans forget. That goes for the fans and sports analyst. First they love you and then they hate you. Then they Love you again! Thats a Hov Bar – Luka is dead NICE!! But he’s not top 3 yet. Has to learn how to lead. He knows how to win. Won in Europe. Won several awards individually. He has to figure out how in the NBA. Last but not least Luka has to make free throws! He supposed to be shooting 85% and up! He is a great young talent. Slovenia and the NBA will be in great hands’, expressed Japhet McNeil. He also gave his personal opinion about where Chris Paul is in the top point guards of all-time and how team USA will fair at the Olympics. ‘With or W/o a ring I believe Chris Paul ( CP3) is Top 5 PG’s all time. He will be a first ballot hall of famer. It’s only right I go with team USA. I do think it’s a lot of parity in teams. When you look at every roster you see a legit NBA player or two or a Very good European player listed. I won’t be surprised if team USA doesn’t win it all. I can tell you that’, commented Japhet McNeil. You also have to be very careful when asking him about the biggest basketball debate question currently about who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James. I mean how can one seriously omit Kobe Bryant in this discussion? ‘Michael 1 ( A ) Kobe 1 ( B ) LBJ 1 ( C ) – It’s the highlight watching fans and the sports analyst who never played a lick of basketball that don’t have The late GREAT Kobe Bryant In the GOAT discussion. The real students of the game. Current and past NBA players mention Bean in the Greatest of all time discussions!! Real Hoopers know!!! #BlackMamba’, warned Japhet McNeil. Of course, he is no stranger to my last question in interviews ‘what was the last movie that you saw’, but this time, he gave his feedback on the Coming To America sequel and why they should have left it alone. ‘I did see the sequel to Coming to America and I took it for what it was worth. It’s hard to top part one. I think they prolonged the sequel. All the actors in the sequel accomplished and established. As opposed to part one no Hollywood household names. The actors and actresses were trying to be where they’re at financially as actors in the sequel. It’s a DIFFERENT Funny way more Raw’, warned Japhet McNeil. In my book Japhet McNeil could easily moonlight as an actor, but then again if that didn’t work, he could easily be a movie critic.