BBL

Eugene Campbell (Valleta Dream) Had That Now Or Never Moment IN Armenia And Is Never Satisfied And Always Hungry For Success

Eugene Campbell III (190-G-1995, college: NJCU) is a 30 year old 190cm guard from New Jersey living the ballers dream overseas playing his sixth pro season and first with Valletta Dream (Malta-BOV League D1). He has played in countries like Moldova, Armenia, Portugal, Bosnia, Peru and Jordan. He began his basketball career at East Brunswick high school and then played 2 years at Middlesex County College (JUCO) averaging 15.4ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 92.9% in his last season. He then played 35 games at New Jersey City University (NCAA3) from 2016-2018. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Eugene for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your 6th professional season and have played in 7 countries. Are you the ultimate basketball globetrotter?

Thank you for having me it is truly an honor. The Euro basket platform is amazing and changed my life. I would say once I hit year 10 then I’ll be stamped as the ultimate basketball globetrotter.

Your getting jobs, but not in high leagues in Europe. How tough is the grind for you personally? How tough is it getting a chance in a high league?

It is very tough getting a job in a high league in Europe when you come from a Division 3 program and you don’t get the right agent coming out of college. The grind is very tough every year for me no matter how good of a season I may have had in my previous country, but that’s what makes me the player I am today and it is the reason why I am never satisfied and always hungry for success. Getting a chance in a high league has been a bit easier for me lately being that I have played in two respected top leagues in the Middle East and Africa but it’s still a journey and a fight each and every day.

Is Germany a country that you would like to ball in? Have you had friends play there?

I would love to play in Germany. I feel like Germany Pro B and Pro A are leagues I can become very successful in and can open the doors for higher leagues in Europe for me. I had multiple friends and former teammates that played in Germany over the last couple of years and I’ve heard nothing but good things about the leagues as well as the country itself.

Your playing this season with Valletta Dream (Malta-BOV League D1). You recently joined the team. What kind of an experience has it been? The only thing missing is the first win?

It has been a great experience. I get to play for Coach Harry Savaya the man who gave me my first opportunity to play overseas in Moldova. I tell him all the time I wouldn’t be overseas if it wasn’t for you so being able to play for a coach that I knew for many years has been a cool experience. A win would definitely make me feel a lot better in my experience. Our team is getting better and better each game and we will figure it out.

You scored 25 points in your first game and 44 in your second. Was the 44 points a career high?

Now that you say that it is my career high. I never paid attention to that until you just called it out wow!

Is your role one to lead the team and score a lot? This is a role you know about overseas isn’t it?

My role on this team is to score the ball and I have no problem doing so. Whatever my team needs me to do for whatever country I play for I will make sure I play my role.

Let’s talk a bout your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

A mixture Devin Booker Demar Derozan and Jamal Crawford.

You’re a player that fills the stat sheet well. What would you describe as your biggest strength on the court?

My biggest strength is the ability to score the ball at 3 levels.

Talk about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I am a smart defender than alters shots stays disciplined and will frustrate the offensive player.

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

I’m working on shooting 40% from 3 like I did in college and making sure my free throw percentage is higher.

Last season you played with Shabab Bushra (Jordan-Premier League). What kind of an experience was that? Did you see any palaces? What was your coolest moment off the court?

Shabab Bushra was an amazing experience and they are my family for life. The team as well as the fans treated me very well and we had a solid season considering we had a small team. I was able to see a lot of cool paces both in Irbid and Amman. My coolest moment off the court was going to the pool hall with my teammates and my coaches. Pool is a sport that I play at home often so it was seeing people in the Middle east playing the sport and being good at it.

You also played in Peru with Liga Claretiana Huancayo and Club Sonics. What kind of an experience was Peru. What positives could you take with you?

Peru was a humbling experience. The altitude was insane in Huancayo. I ran up and down the court my first two days and couldn’t breathe. I had to adjust not only to the league but the conditioning and play style. The positives I can take is to make the most out of every opportunity while your in the game and to find ways to keep yourself on the court when your not scoring.

You also played with teams KK Brcko Distrikt (Bosnia-A1 Liga FBIH) and : KK Vogosca Sarajevo (Bosnia-A1 Liga FBIH). What was it like experiencing the historic city Sarajevo?

Sarajevo was cool. It’s definitely a more traditional country compared to others in Europe but it was very calm and the prices were very affordable for basic necessities. I was able to see a lot of Sarajevo and explore the center city of the capital.

You also played a season with MBA Montijo Basket (Portugal-1.Divisao). What was Portugal like and how did your game progress there?

Portugal was by far my favorite country to play in because of the weather and the food. My game definitely progressed in Portugal because I came in during the mid way season to become the missing peace to a winning team. It was a great experience making the final 4 and almost moving up to Pro liga falling short just two games. I still talk to my teammates and coaches from Portugal till this day.

You also played with Gyumri Falcons (Armenia-League A) averaging 21.0ppg, 8.2rpg, 3.1apg, 2FGP: 50.6%, 3FGP: 31.9%, FT: 96.0%. You were a walking bucket there. How much fun were those few months. The team was stacked with Americans.

Armenia was fun. I was super locked in during that time because my performance in Armenia was going to dictate the rest of my career moving forward. It was a now or never moment that I took full advantage of.

You played your rookie season with Northland Ribnita (Moldova-Divizia Nationala) averaging (39.5), 7.5rpg, 2.0apg, SPG-1 (5.0), 1.0bpg. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake up call was the first morning I woke up. I was like I am no where near Jersey. I knew at that moment that I didn’t fly 17 hours for no reason and that I needed to make sure that 17 hour flight was going to be at the end of the season and not during the season.

After school, it took you 2 years to get overseas. How tough were these years? Did you ever have doubts about the grind and do doubts ever happen now?

Those years were actually great because I was still in school in my masters program and I was coaching and learning the game from another perspective which helped me to become a better overall player when it was time for me to go pro. I have no doubts and no regrets. I wouldn’t want the story written any differently. I love my story and I am embracing the journey each and everyday.

You played 2 seasons with Middlesex County College (JUCO). Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have stated that it was a real grind, but an experience they wouldn’t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

It was a great experience and definitely a grind. I had to walk on and earn my spot on the team and I had to grind to make the starting line up and become an impact player on the team. I also had to wake up and commute every day because they didn’t have dorms at Middlesex County College. I wouldn’t trade any of those experiences for the world because it made me hungry and resilient to the highest degree.

In your second JUCO season you averaged 15.4ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 92.9%. How key was head coach George Jackson in your early basketball development?

George Jackson gave me the confidence and tough love that made me believe I can make a career out of basketball.

You then played at New Jersey City University (NCAA3) for 2 years playing 35 games and averaging 1,0ppg. How tough were these 2 years. Do you feel like you got a fair chance?

These two years was definitely humbling and frustrating but it only made me a stronger player mentally. I didn’t always have a fair chance, but I was given opportunites to play in those two years.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Lavrone Green?

At practice definitely Lavrone. Lavorne was one of the most elite guards during that time and I learned a lot from him.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

Definitely Walter Lemon Jr. Elite guard and a freak athlete. He’s a very humble guy and we still communicate time to time on social media.

Please name your five best teammates of all-time?

Ibrahim from Jordan
Gerson from Portugal
Sean from Armenia
Ricardo Portugal
Rastko Bosnia

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore of 5 best players of all-time?

Jordan
Kobe
Magic Johnson
Steph Curry
Kareem

Who is your GOAT?

Paul Pierce

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

I didn’t see it because some movies are meant to be classics such as Space Jam. Sometimes they ruin movies by making new ones and I felt like this one wasn’t going to be as good as the first one so I didn’t even bother watching it.

Thanks Eugene for the chat.

Isaiah Swope Is Pure Jordan Esc in Crunch-Time Powering The Skyliners To 79-70 Victory Over Science City Jena

After enjoying the Fiba break recently having had a 3 game winning streak, the Skyliners came out of the break losing 2 road games as suddenly they couldn´t win so easily anymore on the road. Frankfurt wanted to rebound back in their living room against new BBL team Science City Jena who had been up and down in the last month. Both teams had real dominant 1-1 scoring guards with Eric Washington and Isaiah Swope (178-PG-2003, college: St.Louis) and if someone had predicted before the game that one of those would decide the game in crunch-time, then they would have been right. On this day it was Isaiah Swope who had his moment as he was pure Jorden Esc in crunch-time scoring 11 points in a row to decide a game that was pretty even heading to crunch-time. Frankfurt moved to 6-5 and Jena to 4-5. “I feel like we played well in the first quarter. In the second quarter, they came back and rebounded really well. We knew going into the second half that we had to pick up our rebounding and defense and did. We got key stops at the end and hit big shots”, stressed Skyliner Nahiem Alleyne. Science City Jena always had answers in the game especially against Isaiah Swope who they had contained well for 35 minutes, but in crunch-time, they had no solution how to stop him as he led his team to the giant victory. “I felt like we played really solid. We just didn´t make the right plays at the end to win. They made shots and we didn´t. Swope got hot in crunch-time which was the difference”, stressed Science City Jena guard Eric Washington.

Logan Johnson at the FT line

The Skyliners wasted no time finding to their game right away taking a lethal 13-1 lead totally shocking Science City Jena. The Skyliners played with an incredible level of high intensity and aggressiveness on defense that totally stifled the guests. Frankfurt got 7 stops where 4 were turnovers before young German Daniel Biel made the team´s first points with a free throw. Frankfurt got out on transition and got easy buckets as ex Artland Dragon Will Christmas scored three times and did ex G-League slam dunk champion Logan Johnson with a lay in while ex Creighton (NCAA) forward Ryan Hawkins nailed a trey and Till Pape made a tap in. Science City Jena had immense difficulty getting into their sets being totally hectic and trying too hard. Frankfurt were flying all around on defense which led to good offense. Science City Jena finally got an offense rhythm, but got nothing easy from the Skyliners as they had to work for everything. The guests got scorers from ex Hagen forward Naz Bohannon and a trey from Washington to trail 18-10. “Washington is hard to contain. He is always aggressive and finds his way to the hole easier. He is a guy that can change a game. Luckily for Frankfurt, it wasn´t him today”, smiled ex BG Goettingen German Nick Boakye. The Skyliners continued to execute well on offense getting support from the bench as German Radíi Casin made a lay in and Alleyne hit a trey. German Lorenz Bank made a key three pointer in the last minute for Jena, but the Skyliners had the 25-14 advantage after 10 minutes. “The Skyliners came into the game really focused. Jena started slowly and couldn´t move the ball at all. It took Jena a while, but finally found their offensive rhythm as they rebounded better and became more stable on defense allowing less easy baskets”, stated ex EasyCredit BBL player Nick Boakye. The Skyliners shot 53% from the field and 50% from the field and had 11 rebounds and 3 turnovers while Science City Jena shot 26% from the field and 17% from outside and had 14 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Eric Washington from outside

The Skyliners had good control of the game for the first minutes of the second quarter, but basketball is a game of runs and Science City Jena produced a comeback and suddenly the game was deadlocked, but at the break, Frankfurt was able to grab the lead by 3 points. Frankfurt began well getting to the free throw line while ex Bonn center Til Pape showed his versatility and fine inside out skills for a big man dropping a trey and Radii Casin snuck inside grabbing an offensive rebound and making the put back for the 30-17 advantage. Science City Jena continued to have problems getting good looks against the aggressive Frankfurt defense. However then came that Jena run that nobody expected. Frankfurt didn´t let up on defense, because Jena simply hit really tough shots in their 13-0 run to tie the game at 30-30. The guests got super support from role player Tavian Dunn-Martin from Florida Gulf Coast University (NCAA) as he added two three´s while Bank and Washington made lay in´s. “Ex Bochum forward Keith Braxton also made a runner. Frankfurt lost their offensive rhythm as they were forcing too much and got away from Frankfurt basketball. Jena did a great job taking care of the ball achieving no turnover in the second quarter. Frankfurt stopped the Jena run with an Alleyne runner and trey from German big Jacob Knauf while Jena got 2 buckets from Bank, but Frankfurt led 37-34 at half-time. “Frankfurt´s offense got static and slower while Jena defended better in their run and got 8 offensive rebounds to get extra possessions”, stated Nick Boakye. The Skyliners shot 37% from the field and 18% from the three point line and had 23 rebounds and 4 turnovers while Science City Jena shot 32% from the field and 23% from the three point line and had 31 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Till Pape with the lay in

The Skyliners did a good job keeping the lead in the third quarter as Science City Jena was unable to get over the hump trailing 59-54 after 30 minutes. Both teams traded 4-0 runs to start the second half as Frankfurt got baskets from Alleyne and Johnson while Jena got buckets from Washington and ex Phoenix Hagen center Alex Herrera as Frankfurt led 41-38. Frankfurt then got super production from role player Radii Casin who scored back to back baskets as Jena trailed 45-38. But Jena stayed tough and always had answer and were able to punch back against the less aggressive Frankfurt defense getting scores from Braxton and a 20 footer from Bank to trail 49-45. But Frankfurt´s offense was on as they continued to execute well going on a 6-2 run to lead 55-47. Frankfurt did a good job being able to get the bigs involved and in good position to get easy scores as Pape made a lay in and Knauf a lay in. Isaiah Swope continued to take many shots, but had misfortune with execution, but his time would come later. Jena got baskets from Bohahon and ex NBA player Joe Wieskamp to trail 59-54 after 3 quarters. “We knew we had to come out tough and not let them get comfortable. We did a good job getting easy baskets and finding Pape and Knauf for baskets”, added Nahiem Alleyne. “Our big Great Osobor is out and they took advantage of it. We have to do a better job of making something happen with the group that we have”, added Eric Washington.

Alex Herrea at the FT line

The fourth quarter was a real dog fight until the crunch-time performance of Isaiah Swope took over sending Science City Jena home with the loss. Ex NBA player Joe Wieskamp was massive in the first minutes making key baskets to keep Jena close to Frankfurt. He made 2 lay in´s and free throws as Jena trailed 64-62. Wieskamp remained aggressive and made another lay in with a pretty move inside to tie the game at 64-64. But that was the last punch of Jena as the Skyliners went on an explosive crunch-time 11-3 run as Isaiah Swope was pure Jordan Esc scoring 11 points in a row. He made 2 free throws, a trey and 3 fade away jumpers in best Michael Jordan manner to give his team the 77-67 lead to decide the game. “I didn´t have much luck in the first 3 quarters, but coach kept telling me to keep shooting. My teammates have a lot of confidence in my game and I do in my own game. I just try to focus on my game and stay consistent”, warned Isaiah Swope. “Isaiah is a workaholic. He is always in the gym. He found through adversary and made big shots. His 11 points in a row didn´t surprise me”, stated Nahiem Alleyne. Wieskamp then connected on a 3 point play with under a minute to play, but Will Chrismas ended the game with free throws. “We rebounded well and contained their guards well”, said Nahiem Alleyne. “We did a good job containing Swope for 3 quarters. He is a good player. Once he saw some go in, there was no stopping him”, said Eric Washington. The Skyliners were led by Isaiah Swope with 17 points while Nahiem Alleyne added 14 points and Till Pape had 13 points while Science City Jena was led by Joe Wieskampa nd Eric Washington with 18 points a piece. The Skyliners shot 42% from the field and 18% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 10 turnovers while Science City Jena shot 385 from the field and 23% from outside and had 49 rebounds and 20 turnovers.

Mike Mitchell Jr Powers The CATL Basketball Lowen In Crunch-Time Over The Skyliners Juniors 86-82 As A Little Bit Of Larry Bird Spirit Is In The Air

How different the season of the Skyliners Juniors could have been had they not had had injury woes in the first month and they had found a way to win games at home better (1-4). But that is all in the past as the team simply needs wins to get up higher into the standings as they were resting in 11th place. They met last placed Basketball Lowen Erfurt who were sitting in the Pro B cellar. Sometimes records do disguise certain things as this seemingly lowly team were first in points scored and rebounds, but that didn´t get them a medal as they allowed 93 points per game and were second in turnovers in the Pro B south. The team featured the always potent Paul Albrecht and talented German Musa Abra and work horse Noah Kamdem. The Skyliners Juniors came into the game with a 3 game losing streak and last weekend had found no offensive rhythm losing 70-61 against Langen. They were facing a must win in their own living room. Despite an incredible shooting clinic with 10 three´s and 35 points by the universal genius Ivan Crnjac, the Skyliners Juniors weren´t able to secure the win as the CATL Basketball Lowen won 86-82. Frankfurt had to put up with the strong big man duo of Albrecht and Kamdem and with Abra and Mitchell at the guard position and in the end it was Mitchell who made the game winner and free throws. “I felt like we played well as a team and hustled well. However our defense wasn´t always awake. It was tough defending against 2 dominant bigs and 2 talented guards. They showed what they could do on the court”, stressed Ivan Crnjac. They combined for 66 of the 86 team points. The CATL Basketball Lowen needed a win so badly and fought until the end with the great support of their fans who made the long trip. “It was an even game for the most part. Even when Frankfurt got a good lead in the third quarter, we never gave up. I think that we had the better energy at the end and were more active on the defensive end. Our fans were also a big help”, stressed Erfurt guard Musa Abra.

Samuel Nellessen with the runner

The Skyliners Juniors found their offensive rhythm quickly taking the quick 8-3 lead as Ivan Crnjac got going right away netting 5 points and getting a great feel for the rim. Frankfurt was sharing the ball nicely early. However it didn´t take the CATL Basketball Lowen long to punch back as American Mike Mitchell Jr. (188-G-2002, college: Minnesota) and veteran Noah Kamdem nailed three´s dead locking the game 10-10. A 9-0 Erfurt run gave them the 14-10 advantage as Frankfurt was reeling for something positive. The Frankfurt 1-1 defense was weak as they allowed way too many easy baskets. Frankfurt took a time out and struck back letting it rain three´s as Crnjac was in the zone as he knocked down 2 more three´s while Mr Energizer Dusan Nikolic also hit from outside as did Czech Republic guard Lukas Smazak as Frankfurt had the 22-16 advantage. Frankfurt couldn´t hold the momentum as Erfurt struck back with a 7-0 run as young German Jordan Brand connected for a trey and Mitchell scored back to back mid range shots for the 23-22 lead. Frankfurt had one more chance before the quarter ended and Skyliner Junior Alvin Oniya literally pulled a Larry Bird. Back in a pre season game in 1986, Larry Bird hit a shot from behind the basket against the Houston Rockets in Hartford. Onyia did the same thing and saw nothing but net. “Fabrice Heberer made a shot like that this season in the Regionalliga. Kids don´t usually practice that shot at least I hope they don´t. You try a shot like that in the game of horse. A shot like that can always help push a team”, said Skyliners NBBL coach Thore Bethke. A big focus in the game was to control the boards and Frankfurt did that 12-10 while shooting47% from the field and 43% from outside while the guests shot 50% from the field and 44% from outside. The Skyliners Juniors had 4 turnovers and Erfurt 0. “The Skyliners Juniors didn´t have it easy without Joscha Zentgraf and Marvin Esser under the boards, but they did a pretty good job as a team. It was difficult containing Mitchell and Abra. We gave up too many easy baskets”, stressed Thore Bethke

Jamie Edoka from outside

The second quarter remained tight as both clubs continued to punch back and forth, but in the last minutes before the break, the CATL Basketball Lowen got away and led 50-45. The CATL Basketball Lowen did a good job closing down the lane and gave the Skyliners Juniors the three pointer and they responded. Crnjac continued to fire away making another while Nikolic and Jamie Edoka did as well, but the guests always had an answer getting a trey from Mitchell who was always aggressive and lay in´s from Abra and ex Rhondorf forward Samuel Nellessen to dead lock the game at 35-35. After Edoka and Mitchell traded three´s, it was the guests that took the lead as Germans Paul Albrecht who once notched a triple double against Lok Bernau and Luca Forster made lay in´s for the 43-40 Erfurt advantage. Frankfurt continued to have problems with their defensive intensity allowing easy buckets. Frankfurt kept battling back getting free throws from ex Neustadt forward Leif Zentgraf and a trey from Maxi Peters tying the game at 45-45. Erfurt punched back one last time closing out the second quarter with a 5-0 run as Abra hit a trey and Luca Forster made an off balance jumper with 0,8 seconds at the buzzer. “We had problems getting consistent stops. They continued to get easy baskets especially on Transition. Mitchell did a good job always pushing the ball”, said Thore Bethke. The CATL Basketball Lowen shot 47% from the field and 40% from the three point line and had 20 rebounds and 2 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 48% from the field and 42% from the three point line and had 21 rebounds and 9 turnovers.

Musa Abra at the FT line

The Skyliners Juniors picked up their game at both ends of the court in the third quarter and led by as much as 8 points, but Erfurt fought back and trailed only by 1 point after 3 quarters. The Skyliners Juniors exploded to begin the second half going on a 11-2 run as Ivan Crnjac continued to have the hot hand nailing 2 three´s while Leif Zentgraf also dropped a trey and Crnjac also displayed his fine passing skills throwing up the perfect alley-oop lob pass for Jamie Edoka with the massive throw down and 56-52 lead. “They were giving the Skyliners the three. It was nice to see Ivan hit three´s again. It was a good omen for the game, because whenever he is on, Frankfurt has good chances to win”, stated Thore Bethke. After Mitchell found Forster for the back door bullet pass and lay in, it was Ivan Crnjac again who continued his superb shooting nailing 2 more three´s for the 62-54 advantage. However Frankfurt was unable to keep the momentum allowing a 9-2 run to end the third quarter and led only 64-63. Frankfurt had some annoying turnovers which led to easy transition buckets from Abra and Nellessen. Kamdem also made a difficult turn around shot while super role player Luca Forster connected on a clutch three pointer. “They had some nice highlight plays like that Edoka alley-oop dunk, but we executed well on offense and fought back to stay close”, commented Musa Abra. “We began well and hit the three well, but we had too many leek outs on defense and allowed easy baskets”, said Ivan Crnjac. The Skyliners Juniors shot 45% from the field and 43% from the parking lotr and had 32 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the CATL Basketball Lowen shot 41% from the field and 32% from the parking lot and had 35 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Ivan Crnjac from downtown

The fourth quarter was a real dog fight as there were 9 lead changes as no team could get away form the other. Ex Skyliners Junior Noah Kamdem is always motivated to play his ex team and twice gave his team the 2 point lead with a trey and runner 70-68. Crnjac continued to be aggressive netting his 9th and 10th three pointers of the game giving his team the 74-73 lead. He finished the game with 35 points on 12/20 shooting. “The first ones felt good. It was good to get out of my shooting slump. We had an advantage because they gave us the three´s”, expressed Ivan Crnjac. After a Kamdem trey, it was Smazak that connected from outside for the 77-76 lead. Young German Musa Abra who has improved his play each season in the last 3 in the NBBL and Pro B has become a real go to guy and showed it in crunch time with a trey and lay in for the 81-79 Erfurt lead. “I showed responsibility. My drive was working well. My team has a lot of confidence in my game. My confidence keeps growing from game to game”, said Musa Abra. Smazak continued to be aggressive and confident in his shot as he hit a trey to tie the game at 82-82. Mitchell then punched back with a 20 footer for the 84-82 lead with 36 seconds to play. Erfurt then stopped Crnjac and Mitchell clinched the win with free throws. “We were very aggressive and had more energy. We were all active on defense and had good pick and roll defense”, stressed Musa Abra. “We could have had better looks at the end. We aren´t that good yet at closing out games. We are a young team. We have to work on that”, stressed Ivan Crnjac. The CATL Basketball Lowen were led by Musa Abra with 21 points. Mike Mitchell Jr. added 17 points and Noah Kamdem had 15 points while the Skyliners Juniors were led by Ivan Crnjac with 35 points while Jamie Edoka added 10 points. The CATL Basketball Lowen shot 41% from the field and 33% from outside and had 51 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 42% from the field and 37% from outside and had 41 rebounds and 14 turnovers.

Mike Mitchell JR(CATL Basketball Lowen) Has Always Had The Luxury To Have Had The Perfect Role Carved Out For Him To Excel Wherever He Has Played  

How famous is the line, if you don’t succeed at first then try try again. I have heard it a lot in my life time. The phrase is simple in that it suggests perseverance in that one should learn from set backs and keep pushing until success comes. It is as easy as that and there have been so many examples over time of athletes that have experienced this. Superstar NBA players lIke Dennis Rodman and Carmelo Anthony weren´t big prospects in high school while MLB superstar Orel Hershiser was cut from teams in high school and college while the GOAT of soccer Lionel Messi was so short as a youth that he was also cut from a junior team while Football Goat Tom Brady was far away from a superstar route as he was only drafted in the sixth round of the NFL draft back in the day. I could list many more examples as these kind of Cinderella stories are told all the time. For overseas rookie Mike Mitchell, this phrase fits perfectly to him. He is a player that didn´t have success with his first stop overseas in England, but since coming to Germany has proven to be a top player in the third league Pro B. He began the season with the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders (United Kingdom SLB) where he only played 4 games averaging 3,5ppg and 2,0apg in 16 minutes per game. Coming overseas and getting adjusted isn´t always easy especially when your all alone and sometimes things just don´t work out. “I had no family or friends there. I had always been used to having them around. I just wasn´t able to crack the rotation. I had good minutes, but I just didn´t do enough. It was a great organization. It just wasn´t the best fit at the time”, stressed Mike Mitchell Jr. (188-G-2002, college: Minnesota). He is a player except for that one time in Leicester that has always had the luxury to have had the perfect role carved out for him to excel wherever he has played.

The California native who lists NBA player Terrence Shannon Jr as his toughest opponent that he has faced in his career so far and Shai Gillgeous-Alexander as his GOAT was born in San Jose, California on July 2,2002 and comes from a sporty family as his dad was a stand out football player at Stanford. He got a lot of early basketball experience playing at Archbishop Mitty High School and AAU with West Coast Elite, Oakland Soldiers and Team Arsenal. In high school he was a 2 time MVP of the West Coast Athletic League. He then proceeded to play at Pepperdine University (NCAA) averaging 9.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 36.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 69.6%
and 10.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 5.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 42.1%, 3PT: 41.7%, FT: 76.2%.He played for head coach Lorenzo Romar who was very influential in his early basketball development. “Coach Lorenzo was simply everything for me. I committed to go to Pepperdine because of him. He is the reason why I have been able to produce in Germany and wherever else I go in life”, stated Mike Mitchell Jr.. He played a total of 61 NCAA games and scored in double figures in 32 games. He had many great games like against USF netting 22 points or having San Diego´s number twice in his second season scoring 20 and 19 points. Unfortunately in losing causes. It wasn´t any games that he remembered most in those 2 years, but rather something else that tickled his heart. “My teammates and practices. Even if it didn´t translate into many wins, I found friends for life”, warned Mike Mitchell Jr.. He then moved on to the University of Minnesota averaging 10.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.6apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 39.9%, FT: 80.6% and 8.4ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 35.7%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 70.6%. Making a move like this was only logical. Who doesn´t want to challenge themselves more in the Big 10? “Every player wants to be able to compete at the highest level and see how well they can do against the top players. I proved I could compete at the highest level”, expressed Mike Mitchell jr. He helped his team reach the NIT Sweet 16 in 2024 where he aided in the big 73-72 win against Butler. “It was a great experience. We were 1 win away from the Big Dance. It hurt a lot not making it. I have great memories there that will forever remain in my heart”, said Mike Mitchell Jr.. He had many great games at Minnesota like beating Michigan twice scoring 18 and 20 points in nail bitter wins. Did he enjoy one win more than other? “The second year when I had 20 points. The fans stormed the court and Michigan was ranked in the top 15. That win put us on the map”, remembered Mike Mitchell Jr.. In his 2 years there, he scored in double figures in 27 games of 59 games. He had the luxury of having had legendary head coach Ben Johnson who prepared him for the overseas grind. “He treated me like a pro and coached me like a pro. He got me ready for the moment”, added Mike Mitchell Jr. who never played teammate Lu Cye Patterson in 1-1, but if he did would take himself.

The explosive scorer who lists Houston Mallette, Elijah Hawkins, Dawson Garcia, Pharrell Payne, and Femi Odukale as his 5 best teammates of all-time has found a new home overseas in Erfurt with the Basketball Lowen. He has needed no time to adjust as simply everything has fit. “All have been very welcoming. It feels like a family. I like my role here. I play a lot”, said Mike Mitchell. It all started well when he arrived as the team won 2 of 3 games, but since have suffered a 5 game losing streak. Is the team missing some depth from the bench as well? “I think the biggest problem have been defense and turnovers. We averaged more than 20 turnovers. We have to clean that up and defense. You can always say that concerning the depth, but we beat 2 of the best teams. I feel like we can beat anyone as well as lose to anyone”, stressed Mike Mitchell Jr.. The Lowen have a great mix out of experience and youth. He has the ultra teammate with veteran Paul Albrecht who gives versatility a new meaning while with Musa Abra has a young German teammate that won a silver at the U-19 World Cup last summer. “I try to soak in as much as possible from Paul´s daily approach to the game and his work ethic. Musa and I mesh well together. I see a lot of my younger self in him. He has a lot of potential. I hope to help him progress further with his game this season”, commented Mike Mitchell Jr.. On the court he has needed no time to adjust as through 8 games he is averaging 20,9ppg, 4,9rpg and 4,0apg and 2,6spg. All he needs is the right role and then he can produce the way he knows how. “I feel like I had a really good summer of training. I progressed a lot last summer. I have had success everywhere I have played and that is because I always had the perfect role carved out for me to excel. I rise to the occasion”, warned Mike Mitchell Jr.. He ripped apart Oberaching for 38 points while netted 28 points against Ludwigsburg and 27 points against Dresden.

So what kind of game does the ex Pepperdine guard who names Lebron James, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, and Wilt Chamberlain on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore have? He is a 188cm guard that likes to watch a lot of film on CJ McCullum and Shai Gillgeous-Alexander. He focuses on utilizing the mid range game and reading the pick and roll. He fills the stat sheet well and has 3 vital attributes that help him be the absolute best offensive player possible. “My ability to pass, shoot and dribble. I feel like now adays it is rare to have all 3. I feel these are winning traits”, warned Mike Mitchell Jr.. He was a great three point shooter at Pepperdine shooting 40% in both seasons from outside and at Minnesota shot 35%. He understands how he can transform his good shooting in the NCAA to overseas. “I have always been a good outside shooter. I feel like with me it is all about shot selection. I just need to take the right shots”, stressed Mike Mitchell Jr.. Despite putting up first class stats in the Pro B, he is always working on his game as he wants to continue to move up the basketball ladder overseas. At the moment, I´m focusing on most on strength, efficiency and defense”, warned Mike Mitchell. It will be interesting to see how his game continues to develop overseas. At the moment he is taking it day by day with his game and game by game with trying to help his team get out of the hole at the bottom half of the standings. He has won at the NCAA level and has carried the winning traits overseas. Now it´s all about starting to win some games with the Basketball Lowen.

Having Been Able To Adapt To Any Situation Country And Role Has Allowed Basketball Globetrotter Eric Kibi(Sloga Uppsala) To Play 14 Seasons In 14 Countries

35 year old 198cm Eric Kibi who has the Canadian/Congo citizenship is the ultimate basketball globetrotter. He is in his 14th season and has played in 14 countries and 25 clubs. He has played in Canada, Germany, Montenegro, Denmark, Spain, France, Slovakia, Argentina, Holland, Morocco, Chile, Romania, Iraq and now in Sweden with Sloga Uppsala (Sweden-Basketligan). He also played at Jacksonville College (NJCAA), University of Arkansas at Little Rock (NCAA) and at Abilene Christian University (NCAA2). He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Your playing your 14th professional season and playing in your 14th country and for your 25th club. That’s mindboggling. Do you plan to stop any time soon?

My body still feels great and I still enjoy the process and the grind. I still love working on my game, my body and my mind daily so as long as I still have that fire I will keep going.

Do you have any personal goals like to play until 40 or having played for 50 teams before you hang it up?

I don’t think those are personal goals, I just feel blessed to still be playing at a high level. But I do know eventually I want to move on to other things sooner rather than later.

We last did an interview 3,5 years ago when you were 32. Now your 35. How is your body feeling today compared to then?

Surprisingly my body feels better now at 35 than it did back then at 32. I’ve always taken my fitness seriously but I think every year I’ve been able to find new ways in the off season to feel better and better. Whether it’s mobility things or things I eat.

What is your secret to having been active so long besides the usual blab la of taking care of your body

 I think the bla la of taking care of your body sounds cliche but it’s 90% of it. If your body breaks down or you can’t keep up with guys half your age you obviously can’t play. I think having the ability to adapt to any situation, any country or any role is also an underrated skill.

Your playing your first season with Sloga Uppsala (Sweden-Basketligan). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you learned to appreciate most about this organization`?

It’s a new organization that is playing its first year in the top league here so I’m sure it’s been a big adjustment for them adjusting to the demands of professional basketball. They have a lot of passionate people on the board who live and breathe basketball so I have no doubt they will be successful in the long run. I appreciate them believing in me and giving me this opportunity.

You have played in numerous first divisions in Europe like in Romania, Denmark, Holland, Slovakia. Also in the 3rd leagues of France and Spain which are considered on the level of some first divisions and now in Sweden. How does the Sweden-Basketligan compare in skill level to the other leagues?

I think Swedish basketball is on the rise. I think the next generation is slowly taking a liking to basketball and it’s becoming more popular. You also have some great Swedish talent in the league and also playing abroad. I played high school basketball in New Mexico against Jeff Taylor 20 years ago haha so I knew there was talent. Unfortunately I still don’t feel like it’s completely a basketball country, I feel like leagues like BNXT Holland/Belgium and Romania are still ahead because they have more talent throughout the league and play more international competition. I think also Spain and France Leb Silver and NM1 respectively are a bit stronger because of the talent of the locals. But Sweden definitely still has the potential to be a top mid-level league.

You finished last season in Bahrain where you averaged close to 30 points. This season you averaging 14 minutes averaging 3,2ppf and 3,2rpg. What kind of a role do you have and are you ok with the lesser role?

Yeah it’s been a different role for sure , wasn’t really my expectation coming into the season because I feel like I still have a lot to give. But the coach decides what’s best for the team and as a player you have to adjust, be coachable and professional. My job will always be to control what I can control, which is to be the best version of myself everyday.

We know you are a great rebounder, you’ve led various leagues in Rebounds, Holland, Chile, Germany and France to be exact. So at 35 What is your biggest goal with your game. Your not 25 anymore. What can you do now which you couldn´t do 10 years ago?

Rebounding and energy will always be in my DNA but my goal is still to win a professional championship. I have a championship with the Congo National team, a conference championship from college at Arkansas but don’t have a pro one. As far as my game goes, I still feel like I have a lot to give. It hasn’t been the best start of the season here in Sweden but I never lose motivation and I’m still hungry. I think the mental side of my game has really improved from 10 years ago.

Your teammates with Marko Dujkovic who is 226cm. Have you ever been teammates with such a tall player? What´s it like being teammates with a guy like that?

Yes Marko is a great teammate, he’s definitely the tallest player I’ve ever played with. I actually knew him before I was here as we played against each other in Morocco. He’s a great player with a lot of experience and we are lucky to have him.

 Last season you played in Iraq for the second time in your career with Darbandkhan (Iraq-Superleague) averaging 18.2ppg, 11.6rpg, 2.0apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 47.7%, FT: 75.0%, in Jan.’25 moved to Al Hilla (Iraq-Superleague) who bought your contract for playoffs and averaging 7.6ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.0apg, 2FGP: 50.5%, FT: 86.4%. What was it like coming back to Iraq. Had the league grown in the last 5 years?

Yes since the last time I was there I would say the league has really grown. The level of the foreigners has really grown. Last season we had many ex NBA players in the league like Jared Cunningham, Arnett Moultrie and more.

What is it like in general to live in Iraq again? What is it like living in Iraq as an American?

Iraq is an underrated country, as westerners we are not always well informed and we choose to believe what we see in the media. I challenge the next generation to challenge their minds by going to countries like this because they have beautiful people that have a lot of love to give.

You split the 2022-2023 season with CSM Focsani 2007 (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 6.5ppg, 4.5rpg: and in Jan.’23 moved to Colegio Los Leones de Quilpue (Chile-LNB) averaging 10.7ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 44.4%, FT: 48.8%. In Romania you were teammates with the great Monyea Pratt who is still active today at age 40. He like you began in the Regionalliga in Germany. Is he a role model for you especially about longevity?

For sure he’s definitely a role model, he’s one of my closest friends and I learned a lot from playing with him. We spent a lot of time together off the court .

Who won a 1-1 in practice, you or him?

We never really played one on one, guys our age ran straight to the ice bath after practice haha.

Do you have any other goals besides winning that chip? How hungry are you still for that first chip?

I don’t really have any personal goals. I just want to be the best version of myself everyday which is obviously hard as you get older with the business side of basketball these days. I would also love to help my national team reach the 2027 World Cup.

In your first 4 pro seasons, you played 3 seasons in Germany with 3 different teams. Would you like to return one more time and try to help a team win?

Yes, I would definitely be open to returning to Germany if the right situation came along. Germany is still one of my favorite countries and the place that took a chance on me 15 years ago.

 Are you already thinking slowly about what will happen after your playing days? Is there a direction you want to go in?

Yes, I’ve definitely been preparing for my after career. I’ve already launched a fitness company ( KibiManiaFitness) that also advises players. Once I finish my career I plan on applying for my FIBA agent license in Switzerland as well.

Thanks Eric for the chat.

Jeff Garrett Knows That Sticking To Their Identity Was Key In Crunch-Time For The Telekom Baskets Bonn Being Able To Defeat The Skyliners 88-76

Jeff Garrett is a 31 year old 201cm forward playing his 7th professional season and first with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He played the last 2 seasons with the Niners Chemnitz winning the Fiba Europe Cup. He also has vast experience overseas having played in Lithuania, Ukraine, Finland and Luxemburg. He began his basketball career at Oldsmar Christian high school in Florida. He then played 2 NCAA seasons with Northern Kentucky University (NCAA) and in his last season played with : Louisiana State University at Shreveport (NAIA) averaging 18.8ppg, 14.1rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6bpg, 2.0spg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 75.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 88-76 win over the Skyliners.

Congrats on the big 88-76 win over the Skyliners. How good does the winning streak feel?

Thanks for the wishes. The win feels great. The win against Frankfurt put us in good position in the standings. But despite our win and current play, we aren´t satisfied. We know that we can play better. Any win in the BBL is big and Frankfurt is a good team.

You won the game by 12 points. The last 3 wins were all very tight. Would you classify this win almost like a close game simply because the game was so tight for 30 minutes?

Yes absolutely. It came down to a few costly possessions. The game felt closer than what the score indicates.

Bonn had the tight 21-20 lead after 10 minutes. That first quarter was a classic back and forth. Nobody led by more than 2-3 points. Did you have a feeling the game would continue like that? Sometimes that first real run happens in the second quarter.

I have to be honest. I wasn´t surprised that the game would remain close. We have had so many dog fights this season. The only real blow out was the cup loss to Trier.

Frankfurt let it rain a few three´s to start the second quarter, but the Telekom Baskets Bonn always had an answer and would lead 39-36. What was your impression of Frankfurt? How much different of a team are they then last season where they really struggled?

There is a different aura with Frankfurt this season. They have a winning spirit this season. Last season it was more of a fighting spirit. I think that their success starts with their good guard play.

Frankfurt began with a 8-0 run to begun the third quarter, but Bonn punched right back with a 8-0 run.  No team could get a way from the other as Bonn led 57-55 after 30 minutes. What did coach Marko Stankovic tell the team to do in the fourth quarter?

He had the same message as before the quarters before which was keeping the focus and sense of urgency. A big focus going into the fourth quarter was using our fouls correctly.

Bonn finally went on a run of 10-0 which got you in great position to win the game. What was key in the run besides the three falling to get the comfortable 78-65 advantage?

I feel like we increased our focus and took care of business on defense. We executed well on defense and got stops which led to transition buckets.

In the run Zac Cooks scored 5 points in a row. How key was it getting that kind of production from him? He has had a tough season so far.

It was big for him. I´m happy for him. This season hasn´t been easy for him. He was hurt and still needs to figure things out on the court. His paly against Frankfurt was definitely a confidence booster for the game against Trier. He knows that he still has it.

As a veteran do you talk to him about his season and situation with having a lesser role than in Jena or Austria?

I speak life into every player here. I don´t want to overdo it, but try to help. I tell him to score first at times and pass first. I try to give him confidence and share my experiences. He takes in my advice. He is a great player and person.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn then managed the lead well to the buzzer. What was the team´s biggest strength on the night?

I think that our biggest strength was simply sticking together. We could of easily lost focus and lost our fighting spirit. It was just a matter of who wanted it more. We stuck to our identity which is to play hard and physical.

It was the third game in a row where Frankfurt lost without top player Jaedon LeDee. Does a severe loss like that sometimes effect a team mentally especially in crunch-time?

I think that could of come into play for them. Maybe they thought that they were less without him. I mean he is the best rebounder in the league. With him, there may have been 2-3 extra possessions or a few baskets more. He gives that team so much energy. But then again one can´t forget that injuries are a part of the game. You need to be able to adjust.

What was it like battling a Swiss army knife like William Christmas? Isn´t he the kind of player everyone wants on your team and hates playing against?

Yes absolutely. Will is a great guy. I just laugh when I think of him. He is a true professional and character. He is the first guy in the gym and last to leave. He has so much potential to still become better. He can do it all on the court and brings a little bit of all on the court especially on the defensive end.

How key were guys like Alijah Comihier and Tylan Birts for the win? What do you enjoy most about their games?

They are my guys. Both are great players. I see them being able to play at higher levels in the future. Each guy brings something different to the team.

Your currently averaging 11/4 stats and shooting 34% from outside. How content have you been with your game?

I´m not content at all. I have more to give. I´m still trying fill my way here. It is tough because I´m an unselfish player and sometimes I get out of my comfort zone. I know I am able to put up better numbers, but it has been sort of a roller coaster season for me. I´m trying to figure it out day by day.

What exactly is your role this year with Bonn? Is it similar to what you had in Chemnitz?

It is similar to Chemnitz. But now that I´m in year 7, I have to be constantly vocal. That wasn´t the case in Chemnitz as we had many experienced players. I´m one of the voices in Bonn. I´m aggressive at both ends of the court.

You recently turned 31. What steps with your game do you want to take this season with Bonn?

I want to get to the free throw line more. I got away from that the last years mainly playing in a system where I was more on the perimeter and was spaced out. I need to be in a situation where I can go downhill more and post up.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn now are 6-4. The team has been up and down, but playing good ball as of late having won 3 of the last 4 games. What is vital for the team now to keep this winning streak going?

We can´t get complacent and relax now. We have to understand that we can lose to anyone in the BBL. We have to stick to our identity and hopefully stay healthy.

The next game is against Trier who have been the big surprise of the easyCredit BBL. What will be key to getting the win?

We have to remember the feeling we had when we lost to them in the cup game. We can´t perform like that again. We have to take care of business right away.

What is your favorite thing to do in the Xmas time in Germany?

I like to cling to the Christmas markets. I don´t like when they are overcrowded. I like to be able to move freely with my family. Christmas is my favorite holiday. It is a time to give and be with the family and have peace. I love to spend time in the house and watch Christmas movies with the family.

Do you have any new years resolutions?

I don´t really have one. I just aim to be a better version of myself than the year before. I want to be a better father, husband and player than the year before.

Thanks Jeff for the chat.

Coming From The Bronx Taught 2 Way Player Dylan Addae-Wusu(Trefil Sopot) That It´s A Grind Each Day In Whatever You Chose To Do

Dylan Addae-Wusu is a 193cm guard from the Bronx that is playing his rookie season overseas with Trefl Sopot (Poland-OBL). He began his basketball career at Sacred Heart High School and then also played at Our Saviour Lutheran High School. He then played at St Johns University(NCAA) from 2020-2023(NCAA) playing a total of 91 games. He then played at Seton Hall University(NCAA) from 2023-2025 averaging 8.6ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 66.7% and  9.6ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.0apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 39.5%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 65.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against Rostock.

Thanks Dylan for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season for  TreflSopot (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you so far?

I’m very thankful and blessed to have the opportunity to continue playing basketball.  It’s been a great experience so far being able to learn and compete at this level

Congrats on reaching the next round of the Fiba Europe Cup. The club has won 2 titles in the last 2 seasons. Do you sense a special culture in the organization in terms of having that will to win?

Yes, definitely. With their past history and accomplishments I believe that the organization has built a culture that’s all about winning and also how to win.

You’re putting up very respectable stats in the Polish league and Fiba Europe Cup. What exactly is your role on the team?

My role on this team is to be myself, being able to impact both ends of the floor

What has it been like being teammates with 35 year old veteran Raymond Cowels? Has he been like a mentor for you?

 It’s been great to have a veteran like Ray with his experience. I´m able to ask him questions about his journey as a pro. The hardships he faced and how he was able to get through them

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

I’d say Luguentz Dort

You once stated in school that you’re a kid who doesn’t quit, who gives it his all and plays to the buzzer. How would you like to add on to that now as a professional?

Continue with the same mindset and approach but also make sure I’m preparing myself for it

You’re a player that fills up the stats sheet with ease and are a great defender. Would you classify yourself now as a 2 way player?

Yes I’d classify myself as a 2 way player

You shot the ball very well at St Johns from outside, but under 30% at Seton Hall. How would you classify the development of your shot now as a rookie overseas?

Getting in the best shape possible and just repping out game like shots

You’re a very good defender who has a knack for grabbing steals. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I´m a defender that anticipates reads and I try to make the opponents 2nd guess their reads. I want to become the defender that players shy away from the ball when I’m defending them

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

Limiting turnovers, shooting the ball at a higher percentage  

You began your rookie season with  Grupo Alega Cantabria Torrelavega (Spain-Primera FEB), but left soon as. What kind of an experience was Spain and what was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Being in Spain was a great experience for my first time in Europe. Understanding that through any circumstance you have to figure it out and it’s on you to make the career you want

You have roots from Ghana, but grew up in New York and went to various schools in Yonkers and the Bronx. Did a tough place like the Bronx make you tough and prepare you for life that many others don´t get to see?

Definitely, being from the Bronx isn’t an easy place to get by. You need to be mentally tough and have tough skin. It’s a grind each day in whatever you choose to do

You played 3 seasons at St Johns(NCAA) playing 91 NCAA games. How did your game grow there? You seemed to have a special role.

In playing that much games you learn through your mistakes and as the games go on. Getting a deeper understanding of the pace, level of physicality understanding the rhythm of the game. Also learning the game from a coach’s standpoint

You had some really good games there against your future school Seton Hall, DePaul, and Marquette. What was your fondest moment there on the court?

It would be our Big East tournament game against Marquette at MSG. Although it wasn’t the outcome we wanted, I took away so much from that game.

You then played at Seton Hall(NCAA) from 2023-2025 and averaged 8.6ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 66.7% and 9.6ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.0apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 39.5%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 65.6%. You won the NIT title in 2024. Was going here the best basketball decision in your life?

I believe that each collegiate stop helped shape my life and the player I am today.

What memories do you have of that incredible NIT run? You had 18 points in a tight 75-72 win over St Joseph and beat Indiana State in the final.

The feeling of selection Sunday not seeing our name get called knowing that we deserved playing in the big dance. And fast forward to April 4th winning the NIT

How did head coach Shaheen Holloway groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

His expectations were high and was always tough on me. It’s like he purposely puts you through a lot to break you but in going through that process you get to check yourself and see what kind of person you are. He was great for me and I’ve grown to be more resilient

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Chaunce Jenkins?

I think Chaunce got 1 on me but he know wassup, lol. He’s a gifted player 

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

Sandro Mamukelashvili

 Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

 Kobe, MJ, KD, Bron, & Curry changed the game drastically 

Who is your GOAT?

N/A

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

Haven’t seen the sequel to the classic.

Thanks Dylan for the chat.

Raymond Cowels(Trefil Sopot) Knows That Studying Ray Allen And Having That Unwavering Belief In Himself And Repetitions Will Always Help Him Be A Great Shooter

Raymond Cowells is a 35 year old 191cm guard from Minnesota playing his 13th professional season and 6th in Poland and first with Trefl Sopot (Poland-OBL). He has celebrated a real basketball globetrotter career having played in countries like Holland, Canada, New Zealand, Finland, France and Hungary while strapping on the jersey for 13 organizations. He began his basketball career at Hopkins high school and then played 130 NCAA games for Santa Clara(NCAA) between 2009-2013. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the Rostock SeaWolves.



Thanks Raymond for talking to germanhoops.com. Your in your 12th professional season and in your 7th season. Back at Santa Clara you were teammates with Kevin Foster who was a walking bucket in the NCAA averaging 19,0ppg every season where you were there. His career overseas was very short.  If someone had told you in 2013 after Santa Clara(NCAA) that you would still be grinding overseas in 2025 what would you have thought?

 Kevin did have a talent to put the ball in the basket. As for your question.  I would have believed them. I know how hard I worked to get to where I was in college and I intended to work that hard or even harder as a Professional. 

Even if you have played in 7 countries in 13 seasons, you have spent half your career in Poland. Has Poland become like a second home for you?

Yes, Poland is my second home. My beautiful Fiancee is Polish. I have learned to love the culture and landscape. I have also found a way to help the polish basketball youth and any players that want to come through Poland. Mainly in Warsaw. 

Your playing your first season with Trefl Sopot (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you. You won the double 2 seasons ago and Trefl Sopot (Poland-OBL) have won a few titles the last few years. What kind of a feeling do you have with this years team concerning adding new rings?

I have great feelings with this Team! The organization and team culture of winning is present and alive here. I am very excited to see what we can accomplish this season. 

You’re a very experienced player that has been a consistent scorer wherever you have been. This season you have many other talented guys around you?  Your still putting up solid stats at age 35. What exactly is your role this season besides being a mentor?

My main role is to play basketball. I am on the team to contribute and shoot the ball like I have always done. I still have a lot to bring to a team even at my age. Which is only a number.  Mentor is for sure part of it, but I wouldn’t put too much weight on that word.  It’s more of a lead by example situation. I am always there for the guys if they need me for advice, secrets, or just to vent too. 

You have been an amazing three point shooter and have shot 40% or better in a season in Holland, France, Finland, Poland, Basketball Champions League and Fiba Europe Cup. What has been your personal secret to being able to shoot so well in so many different places and competitions?

My personal secret isn’t really a secret, most shooters and great players already know this. It is the unwavering belief in yourself and the repetitions over the years that get you through anytime as professional. This is what keeps you shooting the ball well, or from being in a slump to having that break out shooting game. 

You also have been an amazing free throw shooter shooting above 90% many times. Is the 90/50/40 mark something you shoot for?

I have goals in mind and they are higher than the 90/50/40 mark. If I ever get below 90/50/40 then I will use that as a mark. Until then I am just trying to make all the shots I take. 

Last season you played with  MKS Dabrowa Gornicza (Poland-OBL) averaging 14.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT-4(95.1%). What kind of an experience was it playing for this organization? What did you enjoy most about this season?

This season was a rollercoaster of emotions. It is very hard to describe and as you can see I didn´t shoot that well from 3 point land. However, we completed our goal and I learned a lot about myself as a player and person. So I am forever grateful for this experience and every experience. There was something special about playing to stay in the league. It always becomes more meaningful when you have a clear goal as a team. 

In 2023-204, you played with Legia Warszawa (Poland-OBL) averaging 8.9ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 43.3%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 89.7%. This was your second tour of duty with them. You played King in the playoffs and your minutes were drastically reduced. What memories do you have of that playoff series?

That was a tough series for me professionally. Until this day I do not know why my minutes decreased or what circumstances lead to me not playing as much. All I could do was look in the mirror, remember that I am a great player, and keep working to make sure that I don’t ever end up in a situation like that again. 

In 2022-2023 you won the double with  Falco-Vulcano Energia KC Szombathely (Hungary-A Division) averaging 12.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 39.9%, FT: 82.5%. You beat Arconic-Alba in the finals and scored 22 points in game 4. What was so special about this team?

This was a great learning season for me as it was the first time that I ever came off the bench and I realized it’s not about if you start. It’s about how you impact the game. I realized that my impact could be could be the same or even better from the bench and I adjusted my mindset to do just that. The atmosphere of the team was a winning attitude and everyone could feel that. We all worked toward that goal of winning a championship from day 1 and that´s what made my time there special. 

You played the 2021-2022 season with Legia Warszawa (Poland-EBL) averaging 14.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 84.7%; and in the FIBA Europe Cup averaged 15.2ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.6apg, SPG-5(1.7), FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 84.2%. You had a strong series against Slask, but lost. You lost 3 close games. What made it so hard to get over the hump?

This was a great year for me personally and the team we had was strong and we put it together at the right moments. Going into the finals we suffered a couple of injuries within our team and we were exhausted from trying to play multiple roles and minutes that we were used to going up against a fully loaded team in Slask. It was a series that is hard to forget and leaves a lot of “what if’s” in your mind as a player. 

Except for a short stay in France you played with  PGE Spojnia Stargard Szczecinski (Poland-EBL) from 2019-2020 averaging PPG-4(18.3), 5.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 37.3%, 3PT: 43.7%, FT: 80.5%
and 13.5ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.1%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 75.6%. What was so special about this organization? You played 2 seasons with them something you didn´t do so often in your career?

This was an opportunity that I had to take full advantage of. I built a good relationship with the city and with the management as also had unfinished business because the covid year was right in between these seasons. I didn’t think I would end up in Poland after playing in France the year before and didn’t think I would find myself back with the same team. However, It goes to show you how unpredictable this life can be for a foreign basketball player trying to create a career. I took was I was given and started to go where I was appreciated and celebrated. Rather than chasing the money or the big clubs. 

In your second season you dropped 28 points in a win over Anwil with 8 three´s. Is that a game you remember or are there simply too many games that have occurred in your career?

I remember most of my big games as I think any player would. I didn’t realize until later how big that performance actually was. I have always felt like I belong and that I am one of the better shooters in any league. So when I have a performance like this I feel it is normal until I look back and understand that these games don’t happen everyday. 

After paying your dues early in your pro career in Holland and Finland, you then made the next step to a top league in Europe with the Pro A in France where you played two seasons. The first stop was Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket (France-ProA) where you averaged 15.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 38.8%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 76.5%. How did you like the Pro A? You proved right away that you could hold your own with anyone.

This was one of the more proud moments in my career. To make it to this league and to be able to prove to myself that I was indeed as good as I thought I could be. We know the French league is not short on talent. So to be able to play against some of the best that that ended up playing in euroleague or even NBA is a special moment for me. I am lucky to be able to have had such an opportunity. 

In your second season you played with Boulazac Basket Dordogne (France-Jeep ELITE ProA) averaging 9.4ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT-1(96.4%). You had many great games in both seasons. What was your fondest moment there?

I would have to say the best moment for me was when I made the classic toss of the back out of bounds play for an and 1 against a solid contender in the league. Its small but it´s something that I will never forget. We were also only 1 win away from making the playoff and history for the club as they had only been in the top league for 2 years at that point. 

You twice played NBA Summer League with Memphis in 2015 and 2017. What memories do you have of both times. The NBA looked different then than now. Back then you had older guys playing whereas now it seems like it´s all very young guys.

This was an experience that you dream of! I just remember coming out for warm up an seeing greats like, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and many others just waiting to see who was going to put on a show. The competition was great and the experience was better than your best dream. 

You also played a season with the Helsinki Seagulls (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 14.7ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 84.5%. You were teammates with the great Jason Conley that had some fine seasons in Germany. What memories do you have of him?

Jason was a great guy first and foremost and college basketball legend. So to be able to have him on my team as a veteran was everything I needed. He gave me a lot of wisdom and always reminded me to enjoy and have fun on my journey because it wouldn’t last forever. 


You also played a season with the Mike Pero Nelson Giants (New Zealand-NBL) averaging 25.7), 5.0rpg, 2.2apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT-2(87.8%). What kind of an experience was it playing in New Zealand and living there? What was your most memorable experience off the court?

This was a one of a kind season for me. The people in New Zealand are beyond friendly and relaxed. They treat you like family and show that life is to be lived. Not just to grind so hard that you can’t enjoy a coffee or brunch with family and friends. It was bigger than just basketball in that city. It was a true community with history and landscapes that everyone in the world should try to see in person. I remember my time when the team took me to a natural spring spewed out from the middle of a mountain. I can’t remember the name but it was a spiritual and fulfilling experience that I will never forget. 

You played your rookie season with the The Bright Kings Den Helder (Holland-Eredivisie) averaging 10.1ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 85.5%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake up call, that made me realize that I wasn’t in California anymore, was getting off the plane and not understanding a single word. The jet lag along with the crazy spelling of signs had me tired for at least a month. There were so many different things. The size of the stadiums to the snacks that were considered customs. All of these things came as a complete culture shock that I soon learned that I needed to welcome and adapt to if I was going to find some sort of comfort in a foreign land. 


You played at  Santa Clara University (NCAA) from 2009-2013 playing a total of 130 NCAA games. You scored more than 1000 points in your career there. You had some big games in the NCAA like scoring 20 points in a 65-64 win over Villanova or having 2 good scoring games in losing causes to Gonzaga What would you rate as your biggest achievement in the NCAA?

Our biggest achievement as a team was winning two championships in the lesser know end of season college tournaments. The CBI and CIT. Personally, I remember having a huge game in the 76 classic tournament that was nationally televised so all of my family and friends could watch. 

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Kevin Foster?

This was a battle that never ended. He was an amazing talent that could shoot the lights out as well. If you as me it was close but as the coach saw it he was better so he got the start and bigger green light over me. 

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

So many tough players to name, from Klay Thompson to a young Kawhi Leonard. I think a player that was toughest was Steven Gray from Gonzaga. He knew what kind of player he was at an early age and had the size and skill to play against anyone. 

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Ray Allen (because he was the player I studied the most and idolized, especially young Ray) 

Jordan 

Lebron 

Keven Durant 

Who is your GOAT?

Ray Allen 

Thanks Ray for the chat.

Radii Caisin(Skyliners) Will Always Have Great Stories Having Played With Franz Wagner Ariel Huckporti And For Tuomas Iisalo

Radi Casin is a 24 year old 198cm shooting guard playing the 2025-2026 season with the Frankfurt Skyliners. He played the last 2 seasons with BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL) averaging 12.7ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.1apg, Steals-5(1.7spg), FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 83.3%and 18.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.6%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 82.2%. He played parts of 4 seasons in the easyCredit BBL with teams MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg, MBC and Crailsheim. He played 3 seasons in the Rasta Vechta organization. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Radii for talking to germanhoops.com. You have a special NBA connection. You played with Ariel Huckporti, for Florian Hartenstein who´s son is NBA champion, you were teammates with Franz Wagner, you played for Tuomas Iisalo and another connection is Haywood Highsmith. Did I miss anyone? Is there another person I forgot?

no I think that’s everybody.

How special is that for you having had the opportunity of meeting so many people in the basketball world that have reached the highest level?

I´m happy for all these guys that they fulfill their dreams!

Congrats on joining the Frankfurt Skyliners. What were the main reasons for joining the Skyliners?

The main reason was development. I think that it is a good spot to get better and grow.

How did the talks go with Klaus Perwas? What do you appreciate about the world champion coach?

The talks were good. Easy and direkt. We were talking about the past season, the future for the team, his vision and questions about me

What do you believe is your lifetime record against Frankfurt?

Honestly I don’t know,but I’d guess something like 5wins 2 losses

What memories do you of the BBL games against Frankfurt? Your record was 4-2. You had 10 points in 12 minutes in a MBC win

I always remember the big arena with the colorful seats. Also my first time playing in the big arena in the JBBL Final Four.

How is your game better now after 2 years experience in Austria?

I think in general it got better in all aspects. Maturing and also being in a new position counting as a foreigner and being in a different position.
Basketball wise I think the most improvement was the shot

You never averaged more than 3,3ppg in the easyCredit BBL. How confident are you that you will have your break through season with Frankfurt?

I think I learned a lot in Austria over the past 2 years and I’m working a lot to make a step forward

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a tall 201cm shooting guard. If you had to prepare your game to a NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description.

Maybe Vladimir lucic

You have always been a versatile player. How well defined is your versatility at the moment and where do you still want to go with your all around game in the next years?

Basically I want to get better in all aspects. But the biggest focus goes into shooting and finishing. The goal is to get better and Grind and to climb the ladder.

How would you describe the development of your three pointer? Is it fair to say that it is still a work in progress?

I think it still can get better. Unless you’re shooting 100% you still can improve.
From the first to the second season was an improvement and I’m training to improve more now

You averaged 6,0 rebounds per game in Austria. How vital is your toughness to being a good rebounder?

I think rebounding is no rocket science. It´s just will and rebounding is very important to give no 2nd chance points. On the other side is very good for your own team to get more offenses

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

I am a solid defender that wants to become a very good defender! Also there I can improve and make a step forward.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you will be prepared for your 5th BBL season?

.Like I allready mentioned right now the shot and the ballhandling. But also a big focus is on the athletic part trying to be more explosive and to jump higher

You played the last 2 seasons with the BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL) averaging 12.7ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.1apg, Steals-5(1.7spg), FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 83.3% and 18.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.6%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 82.2%. How key was head coach Stefan Waser in your basketball development in Austria?

I think he helped me a lot. Just starting by putting me in this situation. Trusting me but also leading me. Teaching me trying to make no mistakes and leading the team.

What was it like being teammates with Christian Von Fintel? What were you able to learn best from his game?

I learned more from him about mindset, willpower than basketball attributes. He is a great player and good defender and basketball wise defensively you can learn something!

How tough was the playoff series loss to BBC Nord? You gave all you had scoring 35 and 31 points in 2 of the 4 games.

It was very tough. We had a great team and were planning on making it further than only first round. But from that series I learned a lot.

You played 2 seasons and 59 BBL games for the SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels (BBL). How were these 2 years for you?  Do you feel like you got a fair chance there?

Of course as a player you want to play. So if you don’t play you’re not really happy.
I’d say for me personally they were stagnant.

You had some great teammates in Weissenfels with guys like Tremmel Darden or John Bryant. Which player had the biggest impact on you?

Like you already mentioned these are some great guys with great careers.
But from Tremmel you can learn a lot. Being his age and that much in shape working everyday consistently is outstanding. From him you could learn a lot

You played a season with the  HAKRO Merlins Crailsheim (BBL) averaging 2.6ppg. What was it like playing for Tuomas Iisalo? If someone had told you in 2021 that he would be coaching in the NBA in 2025 what would you have thought?

Playing for him was very intense. His playstyle is very demanding, but this is what makes him successful. I learned a lot from him! Would I thought he make it that quick. Not necessarily. Am I suprised. Absolutely not. He knows what’s he’s doing and working hard to make the team successful

You played your first BBL season with the  MHP RIESEN Ludwigsburg (BBL) and played 14 games. How tough was it playing for John Patrick? What did you learn about basketball and business that season?

It was a tough season for me. First time coming fully in that Pro position and seeing the business side of it. Basketball wise defensively you can learn a lot. Playing aggressively all five players!

What memories do you have of Ariel Huckporti. Did you see the NBA coming for him then when you saw his development in the NBBL?

In general Ariel is a funny guy. We shared so many stories back then.
Yeah sure. He’s a big dude. Strong,skilled at that age was outstanding

After starting your basketball career with TK Hannover, you played 4 years in the Rasta Vechta organization. How important were these years in your early basketball development? Did you have a mentor in those years?

That step going to Vechta so young was very important, because that meant it’s all about basketball everyday. Practice and get better all the time. My mentor there was Hanno Stein. He was the one that brought me there and was taking care of me. Any kind of problem or whatever, he was helping me whereever. And let’s not forget the many hours working out!

You played for Florian Hartenstein in the NBBL team. His son is NBA champion now. How special is it having that connection?

I think it’s special. Just because his own son made it so he knows what’s he’s doing and what it takes. He spent much hours in the gym. He was also around the team sometimes, so there you could see and learn

You played the U-16 euro with Franz Wagner in 2016. In 2018 he was NBBL champion. How do you remember his game in 2016? Would you have predicted such a big rise in his career in the next years?

I think he grew a lot late in his age. This helped him a lot, but I think mainly playing at his young age good minutes on high level helped him tremendously. I’m not surprised he made it that far

Who is the toughest player that you ever played against that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

I think Wade Baldwin was very good player. His athleticism is on another level

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

TJ Bray, Ariel Hukporti, Nick Babb, Trae bell Haynes, Franz Wagner

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore? That means your 5 best players?

Russel Westbrook
Kevin Durant
Paul George
Kobe Bryant
Isiah Thomas

Who is your GOAT

Kobe Bryant

Thanks Radii for the chat

Kenny Goins(Trefl Sopot) Remembers Miles Bridges And Xavier Tillman Working Harder Than Most So To Keep Up They Pushed You To Work Harder

Kenny Goins (201-PF-1996, college: Michigan St.) is a 29 year old 201cm forward that is playing his sixth professional season and first with Trefl Sopot (Poland-OBL). He has gathered valuable experience playing in countries like Italy, Greece, Hungary, Lithuania, Mexico, France and New Zealand. He began his basketball career at Warren Mott High School. He then played at Michigan State (NCAA) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 131 games and in his last season averaged 7.9ppg, 8.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 72.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against German team Rostock Seawolves.

Thanks Kenny for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your 7th season in your 8th country. Do you feel like the ultimate basketball globetrotter?

I definitely feel honored to have traveled and seen as much of the world as I have.

Your playing your first season with Trefl Sopot (Poland-OBL)What kind of an experience ha sit been so far? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

It’s been a great experience both on and off the floor and I’m excited for the next few months.

Congrats on reaching the next round of the Fiba Europe Cup. The club has won 2 titles in the last 2 seasons. Do you sense a special culture in the organization in terms of having that will to win?

It definitely feels like the front office knows how to win it and we feel like we have the tools to do it.

What kind of a role do you have on the team? You are a guy that is very versatile. What special assignments do you have when you step on the court?

I feel like I try to fit in where I’m needed per game. It’s not always the same assignment.

You have never been that scorer in your career, but always can if needed. Are you a type of a Swiss army knife?

I try my best to win and it usually isn’t scoring that is lacking.

You played last season with the Manawatu Jets (New Zealand-NBL) averaging 10.7ppg, 7.4rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, BPG-5 (1.5), FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 70.6%. How vital was this experience coming off a tough season in France?

It was nice to pick it back up in a bigger role after a bit of time off with the birth of my child.

You played the 2023-2024 season with Limoges CSP Elite (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 3.6ppg, 2.8rpg. You had 2 good games in wins over Nancy. How tough was this season? What did you learn from it?

It was tough as a personal experience playing a lesser role in a minutes sense but I still tried my best to stay ready and active when I had my chance

You were with Pieno Zvaigzdes Pasvalys (Lithuania-LKL) only in pre-season in the 2022-2023 season and then finished the season with Correcaminos UAT Victoria (Mexico-LNBP) averaging 5.4ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP-3 (68.8%), 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 84.6%. What kind of an experience was Mexico? It is a rising league isn´t it? Americans like playing in Mexico.

I would say it’s nice because it’s close to home and a much more familiar culture being so close. It is a tough league physically and talent wise as well.

You split the 2021-2022 season with GS Lavrio Aegean Cargo (Greece-GBL) averaging 4.6ppg, 3.9rpg: and in Dec.’21 moved to Atomeromu SE Paks (Hungary-A Division) averaging 8.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 28.6%. How did you experience Greece the second time around? Why was it a short stay?

Greece is always a good league to play in. It just wasn’t a fit for the team and me. I don’t have any hard feelings as I was able to play better in Hungary personally.

You finished the season strong in Hungary. It was another stamp in your passport. How do you remember Hungary? Is it a place where you would play again?

I can’t ever say I won’t play anywhere given my past.

You played the 2020-2021 season with Kolossos H Hotels Rodou (Greece-A1) averaging 9.8ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 71.0%. Despite Covid being there, you had a successful season. You had an incredible 34 point explosion against Aris. Was that one of your best pro games?

That was definitely one of my best pro games. I think outside of the offense, it was a well rounded game and even more important, a win in a needed part of the season.

You were teammates with top defender Kevin Tumba. Was he a guy where you could soak up some of his defensive qualities?

He was a menace in the paint on defense.

You played your rookie season with 2B Control Trapani (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 11.5ppg, 6.5rpg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 73.6%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I think every pro experiences the lack of foul calls compared to domestic players and that was the first time I really had felt some sort of difference consistently.

You spent some time with Denver at the NBA Summer League playing 1 game scoring 8 points against Houston. What memories do you have of that time? What was your coolest moment there? Did you meet any NBA legends?

It was a great experience to see how basketball at the top level operates and just be a part of.

You played at Michigan State from 2015-2019 playing a total of 131 games. In your first 3 seasons you averaged 2/3 but made a huge jump in your senior year averaging 7.9ppg, 8.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 72.9%. How did your game grow in the NCAA?

The confidence became much more apparent and trusting my own skills

You played 2 seasons together with future NBA players Miles Bridges and Xavier Tillman. What memories will you always have from them? How did they help make your game better in the daily battles in practice?

They were always great to compete against. They worked harder than most people I know so to keep up they pushed you to work harder.

You won 2 BIG 10 titles. Which one was sweeter?

You can never compare one from the other because I’m proud of both.

You reached the Elite 8 as a senior. What memories do you have of the big 68-67 win over Duke where you had a 10/9 game and faced Zion Williamson who had a big 24/14 effort in the loss.

All good ones. Feel like I can remember every play my teammates made as much as the shot I made at the end.

How did head coach Tom Izzo groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He always pushed you to be better than you were the day before. So the work ethic is always instilled in you.

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

Probably Caleb Swanigan

Thanks Kenny for the chat.