DJ Woodmore is a 28 year old 190cm point guard that is playing his first season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. Last season with Morgenstern BIS Basket Speyer (Germany-ProB) he played 21 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 87.3%. In 2018-2019 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 71.6% in the Regionalliga. In his first two seasons with Speyer he averaged 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1% and 17.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 76.4%. he played at Virginia Wesleyan College (NCAA3): from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). He spoke to germanhoops.com after the huge 71-67 win over FC Bayern 2.
DJ Woodmore and Miles Schmidt-Scheuber in 2015 in Frankfurt
DJ congrats on the huge 71-67 win over FC Bayern Munich 2. How good does 4-0 feel right now?
Thank you, it feels pretty good to start the season so strong. Each game has been tough, but I think we’re learning and finding a way to come together when we need it the most.
How tough was it missing a week because of the cancellation game against Giessen? How do you feel did this break help the team?
It wasn’t terrible honestly. Having that weekend off is helpful sometimes especially during a season like this one. Not having a Christmas break this season makes for a long year, so I think it’s important to take the small breaks when possible. But it can definitely hurt in some ways if you’re not doing the right things during the break.
How interesting is it for you in general to battle against the brand FC Bayern Munich? Does it feel extra special when you can pull out an exciting win like that?
I mean it’s always exciting when you’re playing against a name like that. Def brings an extra motivation for a team. You know they will always be well coached, well prepared, and some of the best young talent in the country. Feels good to win a game like that but we know there’s still a long road ahead.
FC Bayern Munich 2 had you guys on the ropes leading 57-48 after 3 quarters. What magical words did head coach Danny Rodriguez give you guys going into the 4th quarter?
Just stick to the game plan! Wasn’t one of our best offensive games of the season, but we were able to make plays when we needed to, and get stops as well. At the end of the day, winning games like that, is huge for a team.
Brian Butler had a big dunk early, but that didn’t really ignite the game right away, but soon on got added production from many guys. How much of a further step did the team make with that vital concept of team basketball in crunch-time?
I thought we learned a lot about each other after that game. Like I said, it wasn’t a great offensive game for us, but we came together at the right times and focused up when we needed. Now if we can find a way to do that for 40 mins, I think we’ll be in good shape.
5 guys scored in double figures and no one scored more than 13 points. Has the club erased the notion of hero ball already so early in the season?
I hope so, I think that will be key in our success. We have a lot of talented players that can make plays, but we know every weekend might call for someone different to step up and lead us. This weekend it was a balanced effort but as long as we can keep it consistent, good things will happen.
The club played some huge defense at the end. What did the team learn about itself a bit better on the defensive end?
I think we learned that if we can have that same mentality and focus in the 1st quarter, the 4th quarter probably won’t be so difficult.
I believe that CJ Oldham had his biggest game of the season. What part of his game were you most thankful about having?
CJ is an all around player! Brings you consistency and unselfish decision making on offense but is also a high IQ and pesky defender. Great rebounder, and extremely versatile on both ends. Makes so many plays that don’t always go in the stat sheet but is a player you always want to have on the court when the game is close. He was probably the biggest reason we won against Bayern.
You have seen so many young players in your career, but just how talented is Jason George? Where will his journey go?
Extremely talented player. His size, strength, and skill set for his age makes the sky the limit for him. Bright future ahead for sure.
You had another solid game with 13 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. With a team that has so much talent and scoring ability, is the being aggressive part difficult to be just because you can be more of a playmaker then that aggressive scorer?
At times it can be. But it’s been okay so far. I’m still trying to find my balance between being aggressive and making the right plays. I knew coming into the season and being asked to play primarily PG would be challenging but the players we have make it a whole lot easier. I’ll get there though.
At 4-0 you guys are doing many things well, but is taking better care of the ball one of the things the team will be concentrating more on improving this week?
Yes, I think that was a key factor for us all preseason and thought we did a good Job the first two games but we’ve struggled the last two weeks. I have to do a better job in making sure we’re in the right spots offensively, but we’ll work on it a bit more this week in training.
Does that feeling of being invincible grow from game to game or are you guys taking that unbeaten record carefully without wanting to get topo excited so early?
No not so much. We’re definitely excited to get off to such a good start but we’re staying level headed. Like I said, it’s a long season and we still have plenty of room for improvement. Have to take it game by game and not look ahead. Each day we’re trying to get a little bit better.
What did you do on your free Sunday being 4-0? Do you take some time to go back to Speyer to visit friends or did you get to know your new home Koblenz better
With this lockdown there isn’t much to do these days lol. Would love to visit some friends in Speyer but there isn’t much time. I’m usually just hanging out in Koblenz watching some BBL and NFL games. And it’s always a good time to catch up with some family and friends back home in Virginia
Shavar Newkirk is a 24 year old 183cm guard from the Bronx, New York that played his second season in Germany with FC Schalke 04 (Germany-ProA) averaging : 13.3ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.6apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 78.2%. Last season as a rookie with FC Schalke he averaged 15,4ppg, 4,2rpg, 2,8apg and 1,5spg. He began his basketball career at Cardinal Heyes HS /Bronx, NY. In 2014 he began his NCAA career with St.Joseph’s (NCAA) playing 31 games averaging 3.3ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.3apg. In his sophomore season with St.Joseph’s (NCAA) he played 37 games averaging 8.1ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 73.8%. In his junior season at St.Joseph’s (NCAA) he played 12 games averaging 20.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 84.7%. In his senior year with St.Joseph’s (NCAA) he played 32 games averaging 17.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 76.4%.He spoke to germanhoops.com and his current basketball situation.
Shavar thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?
Hello Miles, thank you for talking with me . I am currently in Egilssttaoir, Iceland with Hottur basketball club. The basketball life is treating me pretty well thus far, I have been able to travel to different places in the world and meet wonderful people while playing the game that I love
The last time we spoke, you reported what you had experienced with COVID-19 at the start, but let´s rewind a bit and go back to the long summer. How did you experience the first few months in New York? New York was one of the worst places to be at in the States
It has been a very long summer. Luckily I was fortunate enough to get into a private gym and still be able to work on all aspects of my game on and off the court . Due to New York being shut down, I got to enjoy my family during that time.
There are many professional players from the metropolitan area. Did you have the opportunity to trade stories about COVID-19 or even find ways to work out? How much of a challenge was it working out and finding basketball time during COVID-19
I was blessed to be able to connect with personal friend and trainer Jason Cole. It was dope, he was able to get a lot of the top tier New Yorkers past and present to compete in the gym and get better each and everyday. I worked out with Joe Tousiannt( Iowa university), Clive Allen(Former Cardinal Hayes star) , Isaiah Washington( Long Beach University) and Mike Williams( Hemel Hempstead in London ) just to name a few. Covid have pushed everything back for professionals and college players allowing players to have a longer summer to work on their skills .
Did you find your self taking up new kinds of ways of staying in shape? Some guys made their living rooms into gyms or ran in underground parking lots. How was it for you?
I was able to get into a great private facility and get in the weight room and use the equipment there to stay in top condition
How do you feel were you able to get your game the best benefit during COVID-19, that you felt helped you be able to keep getting better despite the challenges?
I was able to work on my endurance, to help me allow to play at a high rate for a longer period of time. I got to improve my jump shot and put up countless shots.
With everything that you experienced off the court, how do you feel did you become stronger as a man during COVID-19
During Covid , I picked up a few skills to expand my intellect. I learned how to trade foreign currency with this program called “Forex”. I learned how to finally make myself a few decent meals because I lacked skills in the kitchen
It was no secret that COVID-19 would change the whole transfer period and money would go down. A player like yourself before COVID-19 would never have signed in Iceland. What did you learn in this period?
I learned in this period that many job opportunities wouldn’t come and I would have to leap to the opportunity to provide for my family and I.
You did sign in Iceland with Hottur scoring 24 points in a loss. Was your signing in Iceland in an indication of just how difficult the basketball market is during COVID-1)
My signing in Iceland was a chance to showcase my skills and continue to make money during the harsh times of Covid.
Recently you were released. What kind of short experience did you have in Iceland and why was your stay so short?
My stay in Iceland was pleasant , I got to visit the hot springs and The Blue Lagoon. The people are were very pleasant and I got to connect with a great group of guys that showed me the true definition of a team
You had 2 very strong seasons in Germany with FC Schalke. The logical choice would be to return. Could you imagine going back to that team should an injury or release happen?
Schalke are no longer a basketball club. If the opportunity presents itself for me to go back to Germany, I would gladly take it .
The German Pro A and Pro B leagues are still operating. Would you be willing to play in the Pro B for less?
Yes I will be willing to play in Pro B for less. I will be able to play and continue to showcase my skills and add to my resume that can help me in the future
With COVID-19 having struck and effected the whole world, are you aware of what you once had as a player and where you would like to be again? How hungry are you to get back on the court?
With Covid being here, I am well aware of how blessed I am and fortunate to continue to do what I love . I am extremely hungry to get back on the court and show what I have and what I got to prove .
Brody Clarke is a 24 year old 2105cm forward from Toronto Canada that will play his first season overseas in Germany with the ROMERSTROM Gladiators Trier (Germany-ProA). He began his basketball career at Oakwood Collegiate Institute and then played at the The University of Alberta (U Sports) from 2014-2020 playing a total of 115 games. His best season wa sin 2018-2019 when he averaged 26 games: 18.6ppg, Reb-3 (10.4rpg), 2.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 75.4%. He also gained extra experience the last 2 summers playing with the Edmonton Stingers (CEBL). He spoke to germanhoops.com during the summer of 2020 about basketball.
Brody thanks for talking to germnhoops.com Where are you and how have you spent your summer in 2020 with COVID-19?
I am currently in Trier, Germany preparing to start my first European Pro season with the Roemerstrom Gladiators Trier in the Germany ProA League. Before this I was spending my summer in Northern Ontario in my mom’s hometown of Sault Ste Marie at our family cabin working out and trying to stay in shape as best I could. From July 12 – August 9 I spent time in St. Catharines, Ontario playing for the Edmonton Stingers in the Canadian Elite Basketball League’s ‘Summer Series’ which took place in a bubble down there due to the virus. We won the championship, and it was an overall great first pro experience.
You finished your college career on March 8th but unlike most were able to get your foot in the professional level playing for the Edmonton Stingers this past summer. Did you have a strange feeling being one of the few in the world besides the NBA and a few leagues in Europe to have played during COVID-19?
It was definitely a strange feeling getting to play sports amidst the global pandemic, but I found myself really excited to be back on a court doing what I love. I had great teammates and coaching staff which made the experience all the more enjoyable. I was initially quite skeptical of the situation however as the days went by and the league staff as well as the public health authorities continued to guarantee our safety, it become much easier to just focus on basketball and have fun competing at a high level again.
Congrats on winning the CEBL title recently. How important was it getting this professional experience twice the last 2 summers. Do you feel like this chip will give you added self-confidence and have a positive effect on your teammates ?
Thank you! I definitely feel like the experience will help me adjust to the pro level in Europe because it gave me the confidence that I belonged. I think that the added confidence will constitute a positive effect on my teammates and coaches as I no longer feel like a total rookie. I think that the small experience I have puts me ahead of the players coming in who have no professional experience to draw from.
How did you experience the whole COVID-19 crisis in Canada? Was it difficult keeping in shape and working on basketball skills? Did you spend a lot of time with Jordan Baker working on your game?
It was a tough adjustment at first. However I ended up being able to work out as much as I wanted to back home in Ontario which made me feel lucky considering that it was not my job to remain in shape to play pro ball. It wasn’t too difficult because we had some weights at home and a hoop so I was always able to stay familiar with the game. I actually did not spend that much time with Jordan because we were in completely different parts of the country for most of the pandemic. However I was back in Edmonton to take care of a personal matter for an odd weekend and we were in the gym as much as we could in that small stint for sure.
What did you learn from COVID-19 that has made you stronger as a man?
I think the most important thing that I’ve learned is to be patient and to find new ways to manage my stress levels when the situation is completely out of my hands. I think this will help me in my professional career and my adult life in general.
Congrats on signing with the Romerstrom Gladiators. Was the Trier basketball culture and fitting words from Marco Van Den Berg that made it easier for you to pick Trier as your new home in Germany?
The culture and the conversations with Coach Marco were definitely major factors in my choosing to sign here. However the biggest factor was actually fellow Canadian Jermaine Bucknor who has been on the team for a number of years. He gave me the confidence that I would not only fit in well with the style of play, but also that I wouldn’t be alone in a foreign country to start off my career.
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? You have played against guys in the past that later went to play in Germany.
I don’t know a whole lot, but I know that Germany is a very highly developed country with a strong sports culture They always do well in the Olympic games in lots of sports. I also know that the the top league (Bundesliga) is one of the best in the world, so if that’s any kind of representation of the level of play in their second league, then I’m in for some really good basketball.
You got your first professional experience with the Edmonton Stingers (CEBL) playing 6 games averaging 10.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.0apg, FGP-1 (70.0%), 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 78.6%. You didn’t have the massive stats like in school and played less minutes. What kind of experience was this for you and how did this short period help you as a player progress as you prepare for the German season?
For me this opportunity was mostly used as a transition to get acclimated to the pro level and recognize where my game already fit in to that level, and learn where I needed to improve. I didn’t get massive stats, but I definitely wasn’t satisfied with my own output either. For example I think it showed me that since I’m no longer the biggest guy out there, I have to work a lot harder on the glass to keep up, and I plan to use that knowledge to be more effective in Germany.
How vital was it seeing guys like Jordan Baker and Adika Peter-Mcneilly play? Did you ask some advice about Germany where they had balled before in the past?
This was very important. I spent a lot of time asking them questions and picking their brains about what I should prepare for in my experience here. They both enjoyed it a lot and had significant advice that I think I will keep with me for the whole year.
Let’s talk about your game. You’re an athletic 205cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I’ve always struggled to answer this question because I don’t really like comparing myself to NBA guys, they’re just so outrageously high-level. If I HAD to choose, I would say Wendell Carter, because that’s what my friend Zale from UofA (who cares a lot more about that stuff) always tells me.
You can score and get rebounds, but also have a three pointer and very keen basketball IQ. Would it be fair to say you are a modern day forward?
I definitely think I’m a modern-day forward. I think the game is moving further and further away from solid positions, and I think I’m versatile given my size and skillset. I try to be as positionless as possible, and I think I can continue to get better at shooting the ball which will open up my game in a whole new way with today’s game.
Your averaged 2 assists in a season at the The University of Alberta. How confident are you that you can be a very good passer at the professional level once your game continues to develop?
I was an effective passer at UofA because I drew a lot of attention in the post and had to make the right decision to find open shooters and cutters. I think a lot of my ability to rack up assists will depend on how effective I can be scoring the ball. Once I start to draw more defenders, the rest of the floor will open up for my teammates which is where I think I can be effective distributing.
You have an unbelievable work ethic and dedication to the game. How vital has the support of your parents been who both were basketball champions?
I think that my work ethic is something that was instilled in me and my siblings from a very young age by both of our parents. It’s something I try to apply to all areas of my life, not just basketball. Both of them were basketball champions and stars in their own right, but they’re also both so tenacious away from sports. Growing up in that household molded us into being very hard working all around. My mom started her own law firm in the 90s and my dad has run an inner-city youth basketball club in Toronto since the early 2000s and they both just work their butts off in every aspect of their lives. The fact that they can juggle everything they do, accomplish all that they have, and still be very much present in our lives every step along the way is extremely encouraging. I always try to make them proud in everything that I do, so if I’m not trying my hardest to succeed in my pro career, I may as well go do something else that I can dedicate myself more to. That’s why I work as hard as I do.
You became more of a shot blocker as time went by at the The University of Alberta. How much pride do you take on the defensive end and what are you working on in that area most now as you approach your professional debut?
I’ve always believed that defense wins basketball games, not scoring. I think that as the years went by I started to come into my own athletically and became just overall more able to block shots and stay in front of people on the defensive side of the ball. It’s something that’s hard to work on, but I’m always trying to get quicker and improve my reaction time so I can be a better on-ball defender at the pro level.
How vital was it the hours and hours of footwork that you did with your dad in the gym the last years to make you the player that you are today?
Maybe the most important part of my development. I remember thinking it was boring but then when I started to apply some of the stuff, I was baffled at how well it worked. Even to this day when I go home and get in the gym with him he still drills me on what I’m doing with my feet, it’s clearly a big advantage to have that great of a basketball mind behind the scenes.
You have had many big achievements, but how big was it winning the West Tournament in 2017? What memories do you still have of that?
That will go down as one of the most exciting moments of my University career. I had two more chances at it and dropped both of them, which really showed me how big of an achievement that was. I always try to look back at that year to understand what it takes to win championships and try to channel that feeling in every game, practice and workout.
You had Brandon’s number at the University of Alberta scoring 35 points and 30 points, but hit UBC with 40 points. Was that 40 point game one of your most memorable and did you know early on that you would have a big game?
The 40pt game was definitely one of my most memorable games of my life. I didn’t know going in I would have such a big game, but once I started hitting shots in the first half I had a feeling it would be a good night for me. I just didn’t know how good. As the second half started I realized I was really on fire and my teammates just kept feeding me the ball. It was a very important game to clinch second in the conference, and I was determined to win so I kept letting it fly and the basket felt really big that day. I always get mad at myself when I miss free throws and I was determined to make all of them that day, so when I got to seal a win and achieve the 40pt mark on a freethrow I knew I was going to make it. It was a great night and I’ll remember it forever.
How did head coach Barnaby Craddock groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?
Coach Barnaby held me to a very high standard every day in practice and in the off season and treated me like a pro. I made it clear to him early what my goals were, so he always made sure to hold me to a higher standard than my teammates and make sure I felt responsible for our team’s success as well as my own. He helped me with my confidence a lot and we were constantly in talking about all things basketball. We have a really good relationship and I credit him with a lot of my ability to overcome a lot of the mental roadblocks I had made for myself on the court. He instilled a lot of confidence in me over the years.
Who won a one on one in practice you or Cole Knudsen?
Cole and I have definitely had our battles. I’ll give him a few wins for sure. I think I won most of the time though haha. The dude is so strong though he really made me improve, probably more than he realizes.
In 2011 you played at the FIBA Americas U16 Championship in Cancun (MEX) winning the Bronze medal. You Bowed out to USA 113-70. In that game you played against future NBA players like Aaron Gordon, Jahil Okafor, Jabari Parker, Tyus Jones, and Theo Pinson Jr. Which guy on that roster stuck out the most at that young age?
Jabari Parker. I remember thinking ‘this guy’s the next LeBron’. He was basically the same player he is now, but at age 16. Maybe not as polished but, he was unbelievably good.
You played at the FIBA 3×3 U18 World Championships in 2013. What memories do you have of that and what did you enjoy most about that competition game wise that you can’t necessarily do in regular 5-5?
I have a lot of good memories from 3×3 competition, mostly the travel and the style of the tournament stood out to me. But I can honestly say that there is nothing I like more about the 3×3 game than I do about the 5on5 game. The pace was fun and interesting, but I wouldn’t do it again if I had to choose between it and 5on5.
Who was the toughest player that you ever faced on the court that went to the NBA?
Jamal Murray. Played against him growing up in club basketball in Canada and he always played a year up. He is to this day, the best player I’ve ever played against. Deepest skillset I’ve ever seen in person.
Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present NBA players?
MJ, LeBron, Kobe, Wilt
Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time?
1.D’Wan Williams – Highschool and UofA 2.Calvin Epistola – Highschool 3.Jordan Baker 4.Jonah Weyessa – UofA 5.Chris Egi – Team Canada U19 6.Those are the 5 best TEAMMATES regardless of bball skill that I’ve ever had
What is your opinion on the debate of who is better Michael Jordan or Lebron James?
Michael Jordan. I don’t like the argument though, the times are so different, we’ll never know for sure so I don’t really care. That’s just my opinion.
What was the last movie that you saw?
I watched ‘The Best of Us’ with my Girlfriend a few days before I left Canada. I can’t turn down a good romance.
Derrick Williams is a 29 year old 203cm forward from Los Angeles, California that is playing his first season with Valencia Basket (ACB). He played last season with Fenerbahce Dogus Istanbul (Turkey-BSL): playing 28 Euroleague games averaging 11.3ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 66.7%; and played 17 Turkish BSL games averaging 10.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 63.9%. He played his first season in Europe in 2018-2019 with FC Bayern Muenchen (Germany-BBL) playing 37 BBL games averaging 11.4ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 62.0%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 66.7%; and played 29 Euroleague games averaging 13.4ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 78.4%. He also gained experience in China and played 6 seasons in the NBA with Minnesota, Sacramento, New York, Miami, Cleveland and Los Angeles amassing 428 games. He was the second pick in the 2011 NBA Draft and played 2 seasons at the University of Arizona where as a senior he led the team into the NCAA Elite 8 averaging 19.5ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 59.5%, 3PT: 56.8%, FT: 74.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Euroleague game against FC Bayern Munich in Munich.
Derrick thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?
I’m in Valencia, Spain now. We are doing well in Euroleague. Life is great! I have no complaints.
How did you experience COVID-19 the last 7-8 months? Some guys played during the summer, but your season ended in March 2020
It was a little different to have the season come to a halt. First the season was postponed and I left Turkey in mid-March. Then in April the season was canceled. When I first came home, it was a struggle. You couldn’t get the essentials at the store. When you have something like 20-30 million people living in California, there won’t be a lot left. It was a long-lost season. I got used to life. Nobody ever knew what was going to happen and even today it is like that. Today it is still a struggle. It is tough playing without fans. Sports in general has changed a lot in the last months. I’m just glad that we can still play the game.
I heard many different stories of how guys tried to stay in shape despite the tough circumstances like dribbling the ball in a underground parking lot or traveling 1000 miles to find a gym. Was it a challenge for you to keep working on your craft or didn’t you have any problems finding a place to stay fit?
It was different not being able to work out indoors. You had to work out more outdoors. You just had to find things that were more available. I did some hiking and did beach workouts. Towards the end I went to Miami. There were more lenient rules there. I tried to find that normal day routine, but it all wasn’t the same when you couldn’t do those 4-4 type of drills.
With everything that you experienced off the court, how do you feel did COVID-19 make you stronger as a man?
The world stopped and nobody knew what would happen. COVID-19 made me realize what is important in life. Nobody ever expects the worst, but you have to always be prepared for the worst just in case something does happen. COVID has been a time where we all try to become stronger and become better.
You have lived now in Europe in Munich, Istanbul and Valencia. What have you appreciated most about living in places like this that you didn’t see in the NBA?
When you play in Europe, you really get to see different kind of people that really love the game and have that special passion. Everybody knows Bayern from their football program. You could see from the first game until the last game how fans began to fill the seats there. The people were all very nice in Munich. It was the same in Turkey. Turkey was one of a kind. I always encourage people to explore places where they never thought they would ever end up in. I will always remember Istanbul. The fan base was incredible and at another level. They always supported us. It is the same with Valencia. In Europe you often see fans from one city supporting the football and basketball teams. It comes hand in hand. You don’t necessarily see that in the States. A Dallas Cowboy fan might not be a Mavericks fan.
Your playing your first season with Valencia Basket (ACB Spain). The club is doing well in the Euroleague, but struggling in the ACB. Where do you see the journey of this club going this season?
Valencia already had a good team and now has new guys like myself that are trying to make an impact. You just try to add something new without stepping on anyone’s toes. I have been in a slump, but I’m trying to be more aggressive and make an impact. I have to take it one game at a time. Nobody expected us to begin like this in the Euroleague. It is still a young season and we still have a long way to go. We just have to continue to go in the gym and get better.
Your minutes are down from what you got in Germany and Turkey. What kind of role do you have and has it been tough not having that offensive kind of input that you had previously in Europe?
Of course. If I wasn’t disappointed then I would be lying. I want to make the biggest impact possible. The club brought me here to help them make the playoffs. At the same time, I have been struggling. I tore my muscle in my calf and didn’t play any pre season games. That set me back 3 weeks. That was the time where we have to come together and mesh. I have never played on a team like this where really all 15 players play and play a significant role. That is a testament to our team.
Last season you played with Fenerbahce Dogus Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) playing 28 Euroleague games averaging 11.3ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 66.7%; and played 17 Turkish BSL games averaging 10.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 63.9%. What memories did you take with you from this time and what did you take from the culture in Istanbul?
Istanbul was one of the most amazing places that I have ever been in. I have wanted to play in an atmosphere like that for a club like that and a coach like Sasa Obradovic for a long time. Every player wants to play for a club, coach and atmosphere like that at least once in their lifetime.
You have played for many coaches in your career, but I’m sure never for a unique coach like Sasa Obradovic?
I know there are a lot of intense stories about coach, but this guy is a genius. He knows everything about basketball. You just want to be around a guy that loves the game as much as he does. He brings joy despite the intensity. Everyday is intense with him. That is rare and something you don’t see in the NBA. He is very detailed and knows exactly what he wants to accomplish. I’m so glad I could play for the best coach in Europe. I remember when I was playing with Munich, they all said Sasa was the best coach in Europe. You don’t realize it until you start to play for him. He is one of a kind. If you play hard with energy each day, then he will love you.
In your first season in Europe you played with FC Bayern Muenchen (Germany-BBL) playing 37 games averaging 11.4ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 62.0%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 66.7%; and played 29 Euroleague: games averaging 13.4ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 78.4%. What was your wake up call to being in Europe for the first time where you knew that you were far away from home?
It doesn’t matter where you play, if your openminded and can embrace the situation, then it will make the adjustment easier. Munich was exactly what I needed coming from the NBA. Everybody accepted me from day 1. They gave me the ultimate confidence saying that they just wanted me to play my game. If I did that then the team would have the best chances to win.
You had some huge games including making 27 points in the exciting 83-81 win over Alba Berlin or scoring 26 points in the 88-84 Euroleague win over Zalgiris. Is there a game that you will never forget?
Those were some of my best games in Europe. Those were fun times. Munich will always have a special place in my heart. I will never forget Munich for giving me that first chance in Europe after having played in the NBA and China. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my experience playing for FC Bayern Munich. They allowed me to showcase my game and I will forever be grateful to them for that.
In 2017-2018 you saw China and their basketball playing for Tianjin Gold Lions (China-CBA) playing 15 games averaging 20.0ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.4apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 57.4%, 3FGP: 33.9%, FT: 70.5%. What was it like being the lone American and what kind of hype and admiration did you see there on a daily basis ?
China was a crazy atmosphere. That has been the only time in my career where I felt like I was really far away from home. I was in a different time zone and I had my translator Frank 24/7 because the coach didn’t speak english. He was everywhere. He did whatever I needed. If I needed room service then he gave it to me. Whenever I went to asleep, people were getting up in the States and wanted to talk to me. But I kept an open mind and embraced the situation. I knew that I wasn’t going to go anywhere and needed to accept it. It was a part of my journey. One that I will never forget.
After playing 6 full seasons in the NBA, you came back after China and played a game with the Los Angeles Lakers. How quickly after this season did you make your decision to come overseas?
It was a great experience to be with my hometown team Lakers. It was my childhood dream to play for my Lakers. I still think a lot about that time. I made my decision to go overseas about 1 month after the season. I felt like I didn’t want to go back to China and didn’t want to wait and wait again. Before I went to China, I had missed out on European deals and I didn’t want that to happen again. I had 3 offers from 2 Eurocup teams Valencia and Baskonia and Euroleague team Munich. I had no idea what the difference was between Euroleague and Eurocup. I asked my agent which team played at the highest level and he said Munich. I said ‘sign me’. The Eurocup teams offered more money, but that didn’t concern me. I wanted to play at the highest level and prove all wrong. That is why I chose Munich.
You had some very productive seasons in the NBA showing consistency and helped the Cavs reach the final as a reliable role player. You could of stayed and still be there today. Why do you think did your NBA time stop there?
I was still a free agent and to be honest I had no idea why. My time with Munich was really important, because it got me in a mode where I wanted to get better. People keep asking me why I’m not in the NBA and I say because I chose not to be in the NBA. I had deals in Europe and just wasn’t ready to go back to the NBA. I came to Europe to not only to prove to everyone else, but also to myself that I’m a good player. Being drafted so high in 2011 at #2 had a big effect on me. People right away expect you to be a superstar, but that is pretty unfair if you ask me. Look at Isaiah Thomas. He was the 60th pick. That is so hard to believe, but he has had an incredible career. Not everybody can be allstars. You can’t have 45 allstars. I didn’t average 25 points per game in the NBA, but 10 points and that is hard to do. People always told me that I should have averaged more than I did. But I’m perfectly happy where I am today
Your not even 30 years old. How realistic is the NBA still in your mind and do you miss it?
I still follow many guys in the NBA and am still good friends with many so I would be lying if I said it wasn’t on my mind. It is still one of my goals to return. I just will continue to keep working hard and maybe I will return. I turned down the NBA something other guys wouldn’t do. I know that if I did return that I would be able to make a impact. I know that I could help any team in the NBA or Europe right now.
You split the 2016-2017 season with the Miami Heat and Cleveland. What kind of experience was it finishing the season with Lebron James and reaching the final?
The Cavs were the first team in my career where the main thing was winning. It was a different atmosphere and great to be playing with incredible players that all had a significant role. Guys like Lebron, Kyrie, Kevin Love, Richard Jefferson or Channing Frye all did things on the court that I have always wanted to do. I had needed to be around guys like this on a daily basis for a very long time. I had 3 offers. I had 2 guaranteed offers from Denver and Brooklyn and a 10 day contract from the Cavs. I took the 10 day contract. I felt like I had nothing to lose and that is exactly how I played. I will never forget my first conversation with Lebron. He said, ‘Nobody will yell at you if you get a turnover. Just rebound the ball and then push it. When your open take the three and expect to get the lob pass’. I had a role with the Cavs and immediately impacted the game. When your around a guy like Lebron, you can only get better.
Where do you rank your 35 point explosion in the wild 124-121 win over your ex team Miami Heat as most memorable in your career?
Of course that was one of my most memorable games in the NBA. Everybody has one of those games that you look forward to a long time and that was one of those games for me. It was the same for me when I played Duke. The Duke win moved me from a top 20 player to a top 5 player just like that. I had a lot of frustration balled up in one explosion. I just wanted to play well against my old team. I just wanted to make myself paly well no matter what. At the end of the day all I wanted to do was prove them wrong.
You probably experienced many crazy things in the NBA, but what do you remember from You Tuber Vitaly during his streak in game 4?
That was a crazy time when Vitaly ran on the court. I had seen him before. That guy is all over the internet. Nobody expected it to happen. It was shocking at first but then it was all fun and games.
Everybody knows how versatile Lebron James is, but if he played only point guard how many assists would he average in a season?
I always felt like he had wanted to make the move from small forward to point guard. During a game he becomes the point guard. I believe that last year was his first as a point guard and he averaged 11 assists. You see great passing point guards with Chris Paul and Ricky Rubio and he is passing them then it is really a testament to his amazing talent. I think that if he played center then he would average something like 2,5 blocks per game. He is one of the great all-time players. I feel we won’t really realize how great he is until he retires. It was the same with Kobe. He didn’t get the full respect until he retired. The Lakers had been a terrible team for years not making the playoffs and then in Lebron’s second season, they will it all. I feel Lebron is 3 times Magic with athleticism. I respect every player, but there have only been 4 guys that I have that real deep respect because of the sacrifices they have made to become great. Those 4 are Lebron, Kobe, Kevin Durant, and Carmelo Anthony. I saw a lot of this sacrifice as well early in Derrick Rose’s career. I could practice a shot for a year and still not make it, but these guys make them every day and then also in tough situations.
You played a season with the New York Knicks and Carmelo Anthony. What was it like being his teammate and wouldn’t he deserve a chance to sign with a title contender before he retires?
I remember at the beginning that as I started to talk more to him the more he began to open up. His jersey was the first one I bought when I was a little kid. I showed him a pic of me in his jersey where he was 19 and I was 10 and he couldn’t believe it. I idolized his game growing up and also tried to model my game around his. He is an all around good guy. He should never have been out of the NBA. Many things that were said about him weren’t true. He is a great teammate and always took the blame. I really respect that from him. He could of pointed fingers, but he always took the L on his shoulders. He took the blame and that is something that a leader should always do. They way he was treated the last 2 years was unfair. I’m really happy that he went to Portland and revived his career. It is always fulfilling to see somebody who is that good has something taken away and then works hard to come back. I hope he does get to a real contender, but Portland is very good. It will be interesting to see what happens. I would love to see him on the Lakers. He was one of the best forwards that I ever played with. I’m really thankful to have had the opportunity to be teammates with him.
What memories do you still have of the last game against Kobe where you won 90-87 scoring 8 points and getting 9 rebounds. Did you say your farewell to him?
I think that back then I didn’t really realize what had happened when the game ended. I wanted to talk with him after the game, but I didn’t have the chance, because he was being bombarded by so many people. Early in my career, we had the same agent, so I had had some meetings with him. The main thing on my mind after the game wasn’t a farewell, but him signing my shoes. I never did get my shoes signed. Now when I look back, there were moments where I wish I would have had the courage to say something. For me moments are worth more than a signature. I have a pic with Kobe. I don’t think that I even have a pic with Lebron. I wish Kobe was still around and could explain to young guys why it’s so hard to be great and that success doesn’t happen overnight. I think that in the last 30 years, there have only been 2 guys with that incredible work ethic with Jordan and Kobe. I saw it with Kobe, because I worked out with him.
In the 2014-2015 season you played with the Sacramento Kings (NBA) playing 71 games averaging 8.5ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 69.1%. What kind of experience was it playing there and how vital was it having the presence of Rudy Gay on a daily basis?
Rudy is another one of those guys that I respect very much. He took me under his wing right when I arrived and I looked up to him. You tend to watch players that are the same height. He really helped my game a lot. He could score with the best of them. He came off a tough injury and fought his way back and now is with the Spurs. I’m glad he is able to play aggressive again. He was quiet, but a real competitor and a good guy.
You played 3 seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves and put up consistent stats from the start. How key was head coach Rick Adelman in your early development that allowed you to become a solid NBA player?
He was tough on me. I remember when I was drafted by Minnesota that my agent told me that he would be tough on him. Gerald Wallace also had my agent and he also had seen what coach did when he was a rookie. It was good having a coach like that as a rookie. It helped me mature more. I think when you look at guys today that are 18 or 19, they just play through their mistakes. Coach was more strict. I learned that you always have to try to make the right play and just strive not to make mistakes.
You played with many vets that aren’t playing anymore today like Brad Miller. Was there in particular one guy that really helped you adjust in your rookie season?
I’m glad you mentioned Brad Miller. He had played with Adelman years earlier in Sacramento. I remember the first thing that Brad said to me was ‘How old are you’? 19. He then snapped his fingers and said ‘don’t worry you will be 30 before you know it. I remember when I was a rookie not stretching and running up and down the floor and dunking like it was nothing. He was an allstar without athleticism. We always worked out and always stressed working on my game. He said that if you can shoot then you can play for any team. I remember the Lakers-Kings battles when I was a kid which Miller was a part of. He did a good job helping me become a better pro when I was frustrated. Everybody needs that veteran to look up. I had him.
You were teammates then with a young Alexev Shved. Does it surprise you today that he belongs to the best in the Euroleague?
No it doesn’t. I remember seeing him in the Olympics. He is a very good player that wasn’t able to showcase his game in the NBA. He just made the best out of his situation. He is one of the best scorers that you will ever see. I remember Minnesota signing Kirilenko when he was struggling because he knew no English. Whenever I return to Russia, I always go out to dinner with him. We always have an excellent time. His English is excellent now. You can talk to him about anything. I almost signed with Khimki last summer. I wanted to play with him.
How proud are you still today that you were the 2nd pick in the 2011 NBA Draft that had guys like Kyrie Irving, Kemba Walker and Kawhi Leonard. Is that evening a blur today or do you still have vivid memories of that?
That was the best time of my life. I still remember the night well. I worked hard for it. I remember people saying that it would be a weak draft, but it wasn’t. That was the first year where there were a bunch of Europeans drafted in the first round. People were hating on the Europeans, but we had an amazing class. I still talk to guys from that class today. Last season I was teammates with Jan Vesely. We reminisced a little last season about our careers. He has made an amazing career. Just because you didn’t play in the NBA doesn’t mean you can’t have an amazing career overseas.
You played 2 years at the University of Arizona leading them to the NCAA Elite 8 in 2011. You have played so many games in your career, but is watching the upset over Duke which had 8 future NBA players including Kyrie Irving where you steered home 32 points a game you can watch anytime?
I don’t watch the whole game now, but in the past I have watched parts of the game. This is one of those games that I will never forget and one that will forever stick with me. I still get thanked from Arizona fans today for having such a good game. Many have said that was one of the best Arizona games in many years. It helped me get drafted at #2. You need to be around good people who know how to make the right decisions in big moments. A few weeks ago, my trainer and I were listing all the Duke players that reached the NBA from that team.
Did you ever watch the tough 65-63 loss to UConn again or has that been one of those games that you just never touched on again and how long did it take you to realize that you were playing against Niels Giffey when you played Alba Berlin for the first time.
My first thought when I saw the back of Giffey’s jersey was wait a moment I have seen this guy before. It had been a long time, but then it came back to me. He won it twice which is amazing. I never watched that game again. I remember picking up 2 quick fouls. If I watched it again, I already would know the outcome and still be nervous.
You had Kyle Fogg as a teammate who has been a great player in Europe and China. When you look at his crazy talent can one say that there are simply too many talented guards in the world and too little NBA spots?
Yes that’s true. He works out so hard. There are many guys that are in the NBA, guys that have been in the league 10 years that don’t have his work ethic. He is one of those guys that when things go wrong, he can find a way to make it go right. I played against him in China. It had been a long time since I had seen him last play with Arizona. I’m glad that he is doing so well. No matter where he plays he will help that team be successful. He is also a big reason why I was drafted so high. At Arizona we went from 16-14 to 30-8 my last year. He was so important for our success being in the starting lineup and setting the tone on defense. He also has gotten so much better now. What he is doing now, he couldn’t do at Arizona. That is just a testament to how hard he works. I wish that we could be on the same team again.
How did head coach Sean Miller groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?
He was tough on me. He wanted me to play the 5 when I got there saying that the team and I would benefit from it. You could talk to him about anything. I think that he was surprised that I only was 2 years at Arizona. We both thought I would be there 4 years, but sometimes things change quickly. Nobody expected the NBA to come in a 2 month time. I was still maturing and was talking about getting a house off campus for the team and a week later I was gone preparing for the NBA draft. He really helped me reach a point that both of us never would have thought would have been possible. I always respect coaches who will push everyone from 1-15. The best thing that he taught me was good isn’t good enough. Even when I thought that I was working hard, he got you to work even harder. I often think what if I had remained 3 or 4 years at Arizona.
Who won a one on one in practice you or Solomon Hill?
We split. He is one of my best friends. He just had a baby. We were roommates freshman year. We had some good battles. Everything he earned came with hard work. Whatever coach asked him to do, he would do it.
Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?
Jimmer Fredette. He had an unbelievable run in college basketball. I loved being his teammate on the Knicks. He can shoot from anywhere on the court. That is how good his range is. Plus he is an awesome guy
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time)
Ricky Rubio (one of best teammates I ever had. All he did was throw me lobs my rookie season)
Kyle Fogg
Solomon Hill
Lebron James
Kevin Love (he was a big help my rookie season. He is best example that you don’t need to be athletic to be a great rebounder)
Please construct your personal own NBA Rushmore of past or present players?
Kobe, Lebron, Jordan, Shaq
What is your personal opinion of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James?
That is difficult because there were great players in each era. You can’t debate change in the game and so much has happened in the last 30 years. Each generation has had it’s own GOAT
What was the last movie that you saw?
Safe House with Denzel Washington. I have seen it like 50 times. It is one of my favorite movies.
Sam Van-Rossom is a 34 year old 188cm point guard that was born in Gent, Belgium that is playing his 16th professional season and 8th with Valencia Basket (ACB-Spain). Last season he played 20 ACB games averaging 8.5ppg, 1.9rpg, 4.1apg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 43.8%, FT: 85.0%; and played 14 Euroleague games averaging 6.9ppg, 2.1rpg, 4.6apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 93.8%. He played 3 seasons with CAI Zaragoza (Spain-ACB) and currently has played 308 ACB games. He began his basketball career with De Pinte and then played 3 seasons with Telindus BC Oostende and 2 seasons with Scavolini Spar Pesaro (Italy-SerieA). He has won 7 professional titles including 2 Eurocup titles and an ACB title. He has taken part at 4 Euro championships. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the Euroleague game against FC Bayern Munich in Munich.
Sam thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?
I’m currently in Valencia, Spain. Honestly life is pretty good. We are doing good at the Euroleague stage, but struggling in the ACB. If we can fix some things then we will be ok.
Before we get to your basketball career, let us talk about Covid-19. How did you experience the last 7-8 months with COVID-19? What was the most challenging thing you encountered in these hard times?
It has been a tough and strange time for everyone. It was tough during the first lock down and now a second lock down is coming. We have to adjust to different situations something we aren’t used to. We have to stay positive and find some way to live until that vaccine is found. We all have to find that extra effort to keep going.
How did COVID-19 make you stronger as a man in the last months during your daily dealings on and off the court?
The hardest part for me was at the beginning when the strict lock down came. I was locked up in Spain for 7 weeks. The only thing we could do was go out grocery shopping. The biggest challenge for me was to stay busy. Now with the technology it is easy to stay in touch with people, but imagine what it would have been like 50 years ago. You would have lost touch with many. I tried to stay active as best as I could. COVID-19 really felt like Big Brother without cameras. I didn’t really pick up any new hobbies, but tried picking up on old things like reading and doing puzzles. I tried not to read to much of the papers or watch TV because so much negativity was reported about COVID-19. I feel like if I had done that that I could have been negatively influenced by COVID-19 if I read it each day.
What kind of experience has it been overall for you mentally with COVID-19? Do you have that fear of getting tested positive or are you confident that you will be COVID-19 free because you are disciplined and be careful of not getting in contact with people?
No I don’t have that day to day fear of it. I try to do as much as possible to protect myself. I realize that anybody can get it. This is a new reality that we all have to get used to. I think if people can stay fit and take care of themselevs well then the chances to contract the virus will be less. In Valencia we luckily haven’t had any cases.
Your playing your 8th season for Valencia Basket (ACB) and 11th in the Spanish ACB: How has the league changed over the years?
Back in 2010 the ACB was considered one of the best in Europe if not the best and that is the same today. The league is so competitive. If you don’t give 100% each game you will lose. Many believe that only Real Madrid and FC Barcelona are the best, but there are many many other contenders as well. The quality of Americans then with guys like Pete Mickeal and Louis Bullock was high and it is still as high today. Now you have high quality guys like Jaycee Carroll who has had a long ACB career or Corey Higgins that remain in the league. Now guys prefer to play in the Euroleague than in the NBA, because you can have a longer career here.
It can happen that a player from a country plays a long time for 1 team in his homeland, but it isn’t often that a player from another country plays a long time for one team. Could Valencia ever compete for your first home before Belgium?
That is a tough question, but in the end, there is no place like home. Valencia does fell like home. For an import player to remain 8 years with one club is exceptional. Now your seeing more guys playing longer in one place. When you feel comfortable and play well at a high level, you get that feeling like you can build something.
What has been your secret to remaining with one team. Didn’t you ever want to experience more different cultures and leagues?
It always depends on the circumstance. I wasn’t supposed to come back after my 4th season. I had had my second knee surgery and was a free agent during the summer. I though that my time was up and I needed to change the horizon, but in the end, I played a good Euro championships and proved that I could play 5 games in 7 days and be healthy. I ended up signing back with Valencia. It always depends on the situation. I could have left, but decided to remain. You never know what will happen. A big thing one has to always remember is that you never really have security. It is about being at the right spot at the right time, having the touch of luck, and meeting the right people. I feel if you work hard at your game and take care of your self, then you will have the best control of where you play.
This season Valencia is up and down in the ACB and playing solid in the Euroleague. The club has held on to many guys as well as added many new guys. What kind of a journey do you see the team taking this season?
We are very talented on paper and had great signings this season who have earned their stripes in Europe. A lot of guys have played Euroleague, but not in the ACB and still need to adapt. We still need some time.
You played with many ex NBA players, but how has it been having Derrick Williams as a teammate? Does he have that NBA swagger when he enters the room?
No no he doesn’t bring that NBA swagger. Derrick is really down to earth. You would think a guy with that basketball resume coming from the NBA would have an attitude, but he doesn’t. He is a great player and guy. We have a lot of fun off the court. He talks a little about his NBA career here and there. It is amazing having a guy like him in the league. He was a very high NBA draft pick. Having a guy like that in the league doesn’t happen often.
You and teammate Bojan Dubljevic have been on the team the longest since 8 seasons. Do you guys have a special relationship and how perfect is the understanding of each other on the court?
We have learned to understand each other very well over the years. We always know where the other guy will be on the court and what each others movements are. But that is a normal thing. It is easier like that. Our relationship is very good. We have been through a lot together.
How have you witnessed the development of Slovenian guard Klemen Prepelic? 2 years ago, he averaged 4,3ppg with Real Madrid and last season led the ACB in scoring with Badalona at 21,0ppg. Was his arrival with Real Madrid a bit too early?
I wouldn’t say that his time in Madrid was too early. It always depends what the role is in each team. In Badalona, he was the main weapon while with Real Madrid he wasn’t. On a team like that, there are so many guys that have a lot of responsibility that you can’t put up those huge stats. It didn’t surprise me that he was top scorer in Badalona. He is at a age now where he has adapted well to the game. He knows what he has to do. He will have an important role with us as well. He won’t be the guy he was at Badalona with us, but will have an important role with us.
Let’s talk a bit about your game. You’re a 188cm point guard that can fill the stat sheet at ease. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
At the beginning of my career, many told me hey you look like J.J Barea because of our physical similarities. The NBA is different to the play in Europe. Europe is more technical and more defensive while the NBA is quick paced and offensive. I don’t like to compare my game to an NBA player.
Since coming to Spain you have shot 40% or better from outside 8 times. You have always been a great shooter, but how do you feel have you best respected for other parts of your game over the years?
I think those that know me know that I’m a point guard that likes to control the game and help the team play it’s best. I try to make good shot selection and not take bad shots. One of my best attributes is controlling the pace.
You have never been that consistent scorer in double figures, but overall have been able to put up consistent stats. What has been your secret to really never having an off year?
I think key in my success of being consistent has been not trying to complicate things. I always attempt to find the easiest solution. I feel playing this way also helps the team understand better how I play. Scoring isn’t the most important thing for me. I tend to make plays that aren’t seen on the stat sheet as well. Making the right play at the right time is important. I also like to keep giving that guy who is on fire the ball. I also think my defensive energy is important something that isn’t seen on the stat sheet. I once had a coach who told me during a tough span that to get the confidence back, you should just do the things that come most easy to you. That will help you get back in rhythm. Do the easy things first and the rest will come. All players go through this.
You have won 7 titles in your professional career. You won the 2017 ACB title and 2014 and 2019 Eurocup titles. You can never compare titles, but if you had to pick one that means the most which one would it be?
The most important title was the first one in 2014. It was my first year in Valencia and we had a great season. The ACB title was big as well, but I didn’t play the playoffs, because I was hurt. When you don’t play in the playoffs and win, it feels strange. I just didn’t feel like a big part of it.
You played many many times against Luka Doncic in the ACB and Euroleague. Was there a moment that you remember where you knew early on that he was a special player?
I can remember that at already a young age, he would come on the court being absolute fearless. Many young players will come on the floor afraid, but he came on the court as if he was playing against a junior team. He played so loose already at a young age. He didn’t overthink. He was a big talent and was very mature for his age than anybody else. . You just new he was a special talent. A guy like him comes along every 20 years.
Do you remember a battle or play that you had against him on the court where you left the court as the winner?
It was hard to get the better of him. His last 2 years in Madrid were crazy. When he was really young, you could get into his head at times, because he was inexperienced, but later it was difficult. In his last year, it was really hard to get into his head. I remember having good games against him and he had good games against me. For me it was never a personal thing like ‘oh I’m playing against Luka Doncic today. Team was always the most important thing for me. I had some big wins over Doncic. We won the ACB title in 2017 over Real Madrid.
You played some seasons with Canadian national player Aaron Doornekamp. When he played in Frankfurt, I called him the 7 Am practice player because he was in the gym at that time sometimes. Was it his work ethic or IQ that stood out most?
I think both. Aaron is intelligent and understands the game well. We are only 1 year a part. We both share the same type of work ethic. We both always came early to the gym especially doing prevention exercises when we both had injuries. We both always went hard. I always like to tell young players that it doesn’t matter how talented you are, if you don’t put in the work, you won’t get the maximum result. Work ethic is the number 1 most important thing for a player.
Two seasons ago you played with Matt Thomas. You have played with so many talented players, but did it surprise you when you read his name on the Toronto Raptors roster?
To be honest yes and no. Matt is a specialist. He is a great shooter, but also a real gym rat. He is that special guy that will do everything possible to become the best that he can. Now you see many guys reach the NBA, because they are a specialist. If you’re a very good shooter, then the NBA will draw attention. Matt is the kind of player that can dynamite a game and hit 3 or 4 three’s in a span of a few minutes. I see him as a younger version of a Jaycee Carroll. He improved a lot with Valencia.
In the 2017-2018 season you played with giant Tibor Pleiss. What memories do you have of the German and was it a joy for you watching him show his touch around the rim?
His touch around the rim is exceptional. I always liked to play with him. I knew that when I was in trouble, all I had to do was throw him up an alley-oop. He is such a talented big man with great hands. Rarely do you see a 7 footer that can shoot the three. On defense he was always some kind of a rim protector. He can look back as having had a great career with teams of big history.
In the 2015-2016 season you played with Luke Sikma who has become a mini identity figure in Germany with Alba Berlin. When you see him again year after year in Euroleague games is there anything new that his game still presents to you?
Luke doesn’t surprise me anymore. He plays the position 4 and puts up 12/8/8 stats. He has a point guard mind in a big man’s body. He reads the game differently than others. It was amazing playing with him. He was a great guy. I used to be his caddy on the golf course. I would drive the cart. He is an amazing talent that comes from a basketball family. It is obvious that he knows a lot about the game, because he has been around it his whole life.
In the 2014-2015 season you were teammates with ex NBA player Dwight Buycks. He began in Europe, went to the NBA, came back to Europe, went back to the NBA and has played many years in China. What do you remember from your battles in practice?
Dwight was amazing in the open court and on 1-1. He has been one of the best that I have seen at my position in the 1-1. He has had an amazing career. He always had points in his hands. He is a guy that could easily score 20-30 points in 20 minutes. It was always hard to guard him in practice.
You played with CAI Zaragoza (Spain ACB) from 2011-2014. How valuable was this time for your basketball development and where did you grow most with your game?
My time in Zaragoza was crucial coming from Italy. Italy at that time wasn’t the best time for me. I signed with Milan, but then played 2 seasons with Pesaro and was injured both years. It was difficult finding consistency in Italy. So when I came to Spain, it was the time to improve my game. My first 2 seasons with Zaragoza was huge in my development and everything clicked in my third year. I matured, was in better shape, read the game better and took better shots. All in all, it was my hard work in the first 2 years that helped everything click. Feeling very good mentally and physically helped me perform very well. I am still thankful for the Zaragoza organization today for having confidence in me. They told me from the start that they would have a lot of confidence in me. They told me that they would give me a long term contract and give me the time to grow.
With CAI Zaragoza you played a season with American veteran Bracey Wright. He played in the NBA and had a great European career. Where do you rank him with best American teammates that you ever played with? I can imagine in the top 5.
Basketball wise Bracey was crazy talented. I saw him do amazing things on the court that I had never seen before. I learned so much from him. It was always a challenge to defend him. When he caught fire, he was so hard to stop. I definitely rank him in my top 5 American teammates of all-time.
You also were teammates a few months with my favorite guy Jacob Burtschi. Besides his outstanding versatile play, did his character stand out for you?
My man Jake. Things didn’t turn out so well in Zaragoza for him. He was a great guy. I remember him coming from Germany. I always thought it was a shame that things didn’t work out between him and the club. I think that it was hard for him to find his place and to do what coach wanted him to do. He was a very good player, great guy and we had a great time together. He was a very funny guy. He would make a joke and you would die laughing. I saw pics of him in the Air Force and would make fun of him and say Air Jacob. He was always fun to be with.
You left Belgium in 2008 and played 2 years with Scavolini Spar Pesaro (Italy-SerieA). How do you remember your early days as a professional in Italy? What were your fondest moments playing in Serie A?
I did have good moments in Italy. The first year was a struggle. It was the first time abroad learning a new style and having a new coach. Plus it was rare then for a young Belgium player to move abroad. I was only 22 years old. One I adapted, I had good moments. I got hurt both seasons and got a stamp labeled as being a guy who got injured easily. Once you get a stamp, it is tough getting rid of it. I showed when I went to Zaragoza, that I didn’t miss a game in 3 seasons. Pesaro just didn’t work out my way.
You played your early years with Telindus BC Oostende (D1) playing 12 ULEB Cup games averaging 10.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 63.3%, 3PT: 45.2%, FT: 66.7%; and 36 Belgian League games averaging 11.5ppg, 2.6rpg, Assists-4 (3.2apg), 1.3spg, 2FGP: 62.0%, 3PT: 42.0%, FT: 65.0%. What memories do you have from the Belgium league and would you return home for 1 season to end your career?
The Belgium league back in the day was very good and better than it is now. Back then it was a very good place for American rookies to start their career as well as European prospects. I remember a young D or Fischer playing there. The league has gone down over the years. There are less teams now and the financial reality is a lot different. Early in my career, I wanted to finish my career at home. You should never say never. The most important focus for me now is Valencia. I would like to stay as long as possible with Valencia.
You have played at 4 Euro championships. Is there 1 game that will always stick out in your career that you will never forget?
I think that my most memorable game was beating Lithuania in Riga at the 2015 Euro. At that time, it was big for a country like Belgium to beat a basketball country like Lithuania. Something like that didn’t happen often. Plus we won at the buzzer.
You have had many great Belgium national team teammates but where does a guy like Axel Hervelle stand and can Manu Lecomte grow into a Eurocup/Euroleague player?
Axel showed us what it took to get from Belgium to higher leagues. He had an enormous career in Spain which was huge for Belgium basketball. He will always be one of the best ever Belgium players. He was a real warrior with a great character. He wasn’t the biggest talent that I ever saw, but he was always so hard working and always did everything to help his team win. He paved the way in Belgium for my basketball generation. Manu is a great talent. He is the Belgium player that had the best college career. He played at Miami and Baylor. He has a great opportunity in Frankfurt. He has the chance to improve there and grow. He is still young and has time.
Who was the toughest player that you ever faced as a professional player?
Lately it has been Facundo Campazzo of Real Madrid. He is an amazing competitor and character. He can be a real pain on defense. He makes plays at both ends of the court which you don’t always see. He is a special player and I have a lot of respect for him.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Juan Marc Jaumin. He is the head coach now of Dutch team Den Bosch. He was the point guard my first year at Oostende. He was a very special player. I learned so much from him.
Rafael Martinez He played 11 years with Valencia. A real winner and big competitor. He is a great shooter. He was recently passed by Jamar Smith as the all-time three pointers made in the Eurocup. He was a huge support to me.
Romain Sato He has had a great career all over Europe. He was there my first year in Valencia. A great teammate and guy.
Henk Norell
Pleas construct your own personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?
Jordan, Lebron, Kareem, Kobe
What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James?
Michael Jordan
What was the last movie that you saw?
I don’t remember the last movie. Currently I’m reading Way to freedom from Nelson Mandela.
Aaron Jones is a 27 year old 206cm forward from Gautier, Mississippi that is playing his 6th professional season and first with RETAbet Bilbao Basket (Spain-ACB). He began his professional career with the Rhein Stars Koeln (Germany-ProA) averaging 11.5ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.0apg, 1.1spg, Blocks-2 (1.9bpg), FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 65.2%. In the following years he played with BC Beroe (Bulgaria-NBL) averaging: 12.5ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.3apg, Steals-5 (1.8spg), Blocks-2 (1.5bpg), FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 22.9%, FT: 69.3%; 13.1ppg, 6.2rpg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), Blocks-1 (1.2bpg), FGP: 69.4%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 63.8% in the Balkan league. He also played with the Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga () averaging 15.6ppg, Reb-1 (11.1rpg), 2.3apg, 1.0spg, Blocks-1 (1.9bpg), FGP-1 (69.4%), 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 65.6%. With Lhasa Jingtu (China-NBL) he averaged 15.5ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.1apg, 1.3spg, 1.6bpg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 55.2%. With Rethymno Cretan Kings (Greece-A1) he averaged 6.3ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 65.9%, 3PT: 18.8%, FT: 56.5%. Last season he played with the HAKRO Merlins Crailsheim (Germany-BBL) averaging 11.8ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.9apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), Blocks-5 (1.0bpg), FGP: 70.1%, 3PT: 26.3%, FT: 53.1%. He began his basketball career with Gautier High School and then played 113 NCAA games with the The University of Mississippi (NCAA). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Brose Bamberg.
Thanks Aaron for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on reaching the ACB in your 6th season. You have come from a 3,1 ppg scorer in the NCAA to the ACB at age 27. Do you at times feel like your a Cinderella story? It isn’t often that a guy will go as far as you have coming from the NCAA with the type of stats you had.
I don’t know about a Cinderella story all I know that each team I go to no matter the circumstances I am trying to win as many championships as possible thats why I am Chasing Greatness and I am trying to reach the highest level of competition.
How excited are you play against a German team again with Bamberg? Last season you had a very strong season with Crailsheim.
Its the same story taking it day by day just trying to get better with my teammates and when the day comes when we play Bamberg hopefully that week in practice we prepared to win that game.
How did you experience COVID-19 the last 7-8 months. When you look back how well the easyCredit BBL produced a bubble in Munich, are you a bit sad you didn’t play?
I lived in Charlotte so the gyms were closed so I had to wake up a 4 am get ready to leave the house at 5am so I can be at the gym at 6am…That team we had in Crailsheim will always be a mystery of what if.
What were the biggest challenges for you personally back home in the States during COVID-19 on a regular day to day basis?With everything that you have experienced during COVID-19 how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?
With covid it made me realize that family is more important than basketball…because imagine you losing people while playing. I lost my great grandmother earlier this year in January and I had to keep playing basketball
Your playing your 6th professional season and first with RETAbet Bilbao Basket . It took you 7 years to reach the best league ACB in Europe. If Koln manager Stephen Baaeck had told you in 2015 that you would be playing in the ACB in 2020 what would you have thought?
I always knew I could play on the highest level because I worked hard and played hard I always talked to my rookie season coach Arne Woltmann and he told me that everything that comes my way I deserve it.
I saw you play in Germany in 2015 and have to admit that I thought you were a nice player, but wasn’t totally impressed. Then I saw you hoop again last season in the BBL with Crailsheim and was totally flashed by your development. You made huge strides as a player. Do you feel like that having played in different countries each season and experiencing different styles and coaches was a big reason for your development?
Certain coaches allowed me to play how I wanted and I had success. I mean each country I went to and coaches had confidence in me and I produced. In Greece my role changed and the system didn’t fit my game but it was also a learning situation for me.for me growing up I watched Shaq so I wanted to be like him until I saw the game changing so I worked to have no weakness in my game.
On what area’s of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to make the next step in your career? You played against top Euroleague teams in Greece and are doing it now in Spain. What is still missing in your game so you can reach the Euroleague?
I work on everything from ball handling to shooting off the dribble to coming off screens because you never know what type of situation you will be in the game with so I will be ready for everything..For me to reach the Euroleague I feel like it’s just more time at the 4.
What has it been like playing for an organization that has 11 players from different countries. How do you feel has your game matured being bale to play with so many diverse type of players?
It’s easy to go to a team where it’s all our 1st season there and you can establish how you want to play or what but I am coming to a situation where my role is different and I have to adjust to it. My game matured a lot and I have room for improvement.
What kind of an experience has it been playing with Moses Kingsley. Another highly talented guy that is moving up the basketball ladder. What have you learned to appreciate most about his game?
I knew about Moses in college. He came to Ole Miss for a visit and I also played against him at Arkansas so I knew what type of player he was. It’s a respect thing because we played in the SEC. He plays hard and works hard.
Last season you played with the HAKRO Merlins Crailsheim (Germany-BBL) playing 21 games averaging 11.8ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.9apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), Blocks-5 (1.0bpg), FGP: 70.1%, 3PT: 26.3%, FT: 53.1%. You had many great games, but was beating Alba Berlin in the last game 91-82 where you had 13/9/1/2/5 stats one of your most memorable?
I wasn’t worried about stats, but I was more happy that we won I did not care that it was Berlin or it was the second team at practice as long as my team won that’s all that mattered.
In the 2018-2019 season you played with the Rethymno Cretan Kings (Greece-A1) playing 22 games averaging 6.3ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 65.9%, 3PT: 18.8%, FT: 56.5%. Tal a little about how you experienced this season. Was winning the last 5 games and registering 7 blocks against Euroleague powerhouse Panathinaikos your best memories that season?
My best memory of that season was winning the last game to save that club from falling to the second league
In 2018 you also gained some new experience playing with Lhasa Jingtu (China-NBL) playing 11 games averaging 15.5ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.1apg, 1.3spg, 1.6bpg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 55.2%. How did you adjust to the culture there and was ex NBA player Lamar Patterson a good outlet to getting away from China and just having that American vibe around you?
Yeah in that China season Lamar Patterson told me he liked my game and he told me shoot because I played hard and was playing on an injury.
In the 2017-2018 season you played with the Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 53 games averaging 15.6ppg, Reb-1 (11.1rpg), 2.3apg, 1.0spg, Blocks-1 (1.9bpg), FGP-1 (69.4%), 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 65.6%. How important was this season for your overall confidence? You led the league in rebounds and blocks in a league where many guys make the jump to higher leagues.
Coming into that season my confidence was already high I just wanted to continue winning.
You beat KTP Basket in 4 games, beat the Helsinki Seagulls in 4 games and in the final lost a bitter 6 game series against Kauhajoki losing the last game 99-96. Is that one of your more bitter loses in your career?
That last series was pretty tough I lost my grandfather the morning of game 2 and also I was injured real bad and I still played.
How special was the team around guys like Jaylon Brown and Javontae Hawkins who would later be your teammates in Crailsheim and Bilbao?
Jaylon Brown, Javontae Hawkins and Tobin Carberry. I would play with them for the rest of my career if I could that’s how special our bond was in Finland.
In the 2015-2016 season you played with BC Beroe (Bulgaria-NBL) playing 33 games averaging 12.5ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.3apg, Steals-5 (1.8spg), Blocks-2 (1.5bpg), FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 22.9%, FT: 69.3%; and played 18 Balkan League games averaging 13.1ppg, 6.2rpg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), Blocks-1 (1.2bpg), FGP: 69.4%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 63.8%. You won the league title and cup that season. What made this team so special?
I got a finals MVP and that’s when my confidence rose in my pro career. We practiced harder than the game and that is when I stared figuring out things.
You had a 23/20 Kevin Love type game against Spartak Plevin. Did you feel more invincible in the paint on this day than usual?
We lost that game so them stats did not matter.
As a rookie you played with the Rhein Stars Koeln (Germany-ProA) playing 28 games averaging 11.5ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.0apg, 1.1spg, Blocks-2 (1.9bpg), FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 65.2%. What was your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were very far away form home?
My wake up call was the first day I arrived and I did not see my wife and kids and I was wondering what did I get myself into.
You played at the University of Mississippi (NCAA) from 2011-2015. Was winning the SEC tournament in 2013 one of your greatest achievements there?
I tore my ACL that year so I felt like I did not help my teammates win it.
As a freshman you played 12 minutes in a 77-62 loss against powerhouse Kentucky that showcased future NBA player like Anthony Davis, Darius Miller and Michael Gilchrist just to name a few. What do you remember from that game and how do you remember presenting yourself on the floor?
I just wanted to have the same opportunity as those guys as a freshman
As a junior you averaged 27 minutes and made a new step in your game. Against Auburn you were half-way to a quadruple double. How did your game grow in this season?
Going into my Junior year I just wanted to continue to win games because I knew this was my last year playing with Marshall
How did Andy Kennedy groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?
He gave an opportunity to make that step from high school to college and hopefully teams call him and he puts in a good word for me
Who won a one on one in practice you or MJ Rhett?
If you put me in the wild with a pack of lion I am going to survive…I am winning that game of 1 on 1.
Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA that would go on to play in the NBA?
Cameron Delaney is a 25 year old 193cm guard from Harkers Heights, Texas and is playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Phoenix Hagen (Germany-ProA) currently averaging 16,0ppg, 4,0rpg and 1,0apg. Last season as a rookie he played with BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL) playing 23 games averaging 13.7ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 81.7%. He began his basketball career at Harker Heights High School:. He began his NCAA career at Denver University (NCAA) in 2014 and as a freshman played18 games averaging 2.4ppg, 1.7rpg. He then finished his nCAA career at Sam Houston State University (NCAA) playing 88 games and as a senior played 33 games averaging 13.4ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 82.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the summer of 2020 about basketball.
Cameron thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been despite the whole COVID-19 effecting the world?
No problem Miles its a pleasure. I am currently in Austin Texas. My summer has been pretty productive with a strict schedule. It’s been pretty enjoyable to get out, get fresh air ,be around nature, go on hikes, and relax at the lake outside of basketball!
How have you experienced the whole COVID-19 crisis in the States? How much did the last 6 months change your life and how much of a challenge was it finding the time and places to be able to stay in shape and be able to work on your game?
Covid-19 had affected my family and I in different ways. It’s brought my family and friends closer. We’ve had to lean on each other more than ever. It’s changed my life in a productive way, in a sense that it’s made me reflect on my life and to figure out ways to survive, get ahead, and has opened my eyes to other business related things. When it comes to finding gym space’s in Texas it wasn’t really that hard for me because I know a couple of people that owned gyms and I was able to get some work in at their facilities.
How do you feel did COVID-19 make you stronger as a man?
It has made me stronger as a man because my faith has been tested over and over again. I feel like I’ve prospered through whatever has been placed in front of me. Personally staying the course and keeping my belief’s close to me has continued me on this straight path.
Congrats on signing with Phoenix Hagen. What do you know in general about Germany and have you had any friends or ex teammates or opponents play here?
– I’ve heard a few things about Germany like some of it’s historical cities. Also a lot of military personal come back from being deployed in Germany and they have great feedback about their time being in the country. I’ve known a couple of teammates/opponents play in Germany as well!
The Pro A club is very high on your abilities and you lauded the talks you had with head coach Chris Harris. What was the deciding factor that made you want to join this club?
ProA Germany has always been a destination for me coming out of college. Being able to get this opportunity I want to seize the moment. Coach Chris Harris and I hit off immediately during our initial conversation. I like the type of coach he is along with his style as well as the type of person he is. He’s a great guy! I was excited to have the opportunity to play in front of an energetic city in Hagen, play with talented players on the team and most important have the desire as my teammates and coach’s to win a championship!!
You had a very potent rookie season in Austria. With what expectations are you going into your second professional season and what are your main goals with your own game?
After getting my feet wet playing in Austria my rookie season. I’m extremely motivated to showcase more of an all around game. Perform at a higher level on a bigger stage. I want to show every part of my game and that it has tremendously gotten better since my rookie year is a main goal that drives me. Winning a championship will ultimately feel amazing for me, being apart of something special!
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard that can fill up the stat sheet. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?
I’d compare my game to Royce O’neale. He’s a player that every team in the NBA would love to have on their team. I feel like I bring those same capabilities that he does. I can do a lot of things on the court at a high level. There aren’t many weakness’s in my game. I defend the best offensive player night in and night out. I rebound the ball at a high level. I can score the ball at a high clip. I’m a pure shooter. I create for others as well! Most importantly I’m a winner!
You can do so many different things on the court, but if you had to pick one ability that defines your game the most what would it be? – – Pure shooter !
You made a huge jump in rebounding in the last 2 years in the NCAA. How do you explain the rapid rise in rebounds in the stats?
I’d saying my minutes on the court went up and that’s when the rebounding numbers went up! I love chasing the boards. ‘Board man gets paid’
On what area’s of your game are you working on most this summer so that you can have another productive professional season?
I am working heavily on situations over this summer. For instance a lot of pick and roll reads. Also working on reads with out the ball in my hands to be able to be extremely effective as well!
You played your rookie season with BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL) playing 23 games averaging 13.7ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 81.7%. What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Austria where you knew that you were far away from home?
Honestly playing professional basketball has always been a dream of mine. When I first landed in Europe for the first time ever was my wake up call. I was ready to rock then and there.
You began your NCAA career at Denver University (NCAA) playing 18 games averaging 2.4ppg, 1.7rpg. It wasn’t an easy freshman start, but were you able to gain something positive from the experience? – – I was able to learn plenty of actions playing at Denver University. I also learned that I needed to learn how to adapt to my environment early. Main thing I learned playing at DU was ‘it’s not where you start , it where you finish’. That saying stuck in my head all year.
You then transferred to Sam Houston State University. You sat out your first season due to transfer rules and then played 2 seasons averaging only 4,0ppg. How tough were these first few years and how important was it having your identical twin Josh there by your side?
Transferring to Sam Houston was pretty rough going through a year with out being able to play in any games or get reps in practice. That weighed on my mental a lot. Then red shirt sophomore year was tough for because I felt like I deserved the same opportunity’s the upper class man in front of me was getting but I wasn’t getting that. It really really really drove me to show everybody that was doubting me that I am THAT GUY I KNOW I CAN BE. I’d put in over time hours in the gym crafting so I can be ready when that time comes. Being able to have my fraternal twin and sister Angela DeLaney at Sam Houston State University helped me tremendously. Sharing the court with Josh and seeing how he prevailed early REALLY inspired me and gave me belief that I could do the same. It told me that my time is coming. I was truly happy for him getting that success early in his career.
How close is your relationship with Josh? How do you feel has this bond made you stronger as a person through the years?
Josh is my guy my TWIN!! I love my twin man I feel what he feels. He feels what I feel. We’d push each other to be the best us. We are the same player honestly. I’m just a little taller. We play with a chip on our shoulder and cannot accepting losing or letting someone get the best of us on the court.
You finally had your break out season as a senior at Sam Houston State University averaging 13.4ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 82.2%. How do you feel did your game mature in your senior year?
I feel like I was given that opportunity I was finally asking for. Once I saw I had that there was no way around it I was going to seize the moment. Also this was the year Josh and I were seniors. Leading up to senior year that summer we’d push each other and tell each other let’s treat this like senior year of high school when we won a championship. So honestly our mentality was championship all year. I worked extremely extremely hard all year I made sure I worked the hardest out of everybody around / in-front of me.
You had quite a few good games as a senior like your 25 points against Houston Baptist or your 24 points against Lamar. What was your personal favorite game?
My favorite game was the game against Houston Baptist because that was a game we could’ve lost and Josh and I ended up going banana’s to stop us from losing. Josh finished with 30 points and I finished with 25 points, which was the first time we did that in college. Another game that sticks out to me is when we beat UNO to solidly the regular season champs
How did Jason Hooten prepare and groom you for a professional basketball career?
-He prepared me by showing me that you have to perform at all times or your playing time will not be a lot. He showed me a lot of offensive schemes that I picked up on and stuck with me. Defensively he really elevated me in that area. The cheat codes he gave me during my time at Sam Houston helps a lot transitioning to the professional game. Also the way I was treated at SHSU in program really turned on a light for me to always BE A DOG!
How won a one on one in practice you or your brother Josh?
I’d win against Josh because I am a big guard and he’s small fry compared to me hahaha!
Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA that went to the NBA?
Jonathan Motley was pretty tough at Baylor!
Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time? Josh DeLaney Christopher CG Galbreath Kai Mitchell Zach Nutall Brett Olson / Cameron Griffin
Please construct your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present players?
Derrick Rose Tracy Mcgrady Kobe Bryant Allen Iverson Tim Duncan
What is your personal opinion between the never ending debate between Michael Jordan and Lebron James concerning who is the greatest of all-time?
I think they’re both great it’s hard for me to answer this one.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Kevin Franceschi in Germany in the 2018-2019 season
Only a few months ago Kevin Franceschi was searching for a club and there was a link to him playing in Germany´s highest league easyCredit BBL, but that never became a reality as it would have been another example of how some guys playing in Germany´s third division Pro B are good enough for the first division. It would have been another fascinating Cinderella story and I´m sure that he would have held his own, but soon after something happened that most likely outshined the BBL dream. The 27 year old 193 cm guard from Argenteuil, France played at 3 schools in the States, in Spain, Germany and Greece, but never in his homeland. It has been an interesting basketball journey so far for Kevin Franceschi, but somehow the opportunity to ball at home never came about until now. The versatile player recently signed with Paris Basketball (ProB) and is more than thrilled to start a new basketball chapter in his life. “If I had the opportunity earlier I would’ve been back in France the past years probably. “It’s a great league to play in, and Paris Basketball is a team with ambitions. I’m very close to my actual home, Argenteuil. So a lot of great things combined to make it happen. I love being here, around my family. It’s always different when you know you’re now close to your loved ones and “home comfort”. I can look at the sideline during the game and my mum would be there close to me, smiling, and same with my dad. I’m blessed to have a great team, we all get along really well”, said ex BBC Coburg player Kevin Franceschi. Not only is the ex Oklahoma Baptist University (NCAA2) standout thrilled to be finally playing in his native country, but also to be battling tough opponents in possibly the most difficult league that he has played in as a professional. “The talent rate of the Pro B league is high. A lot of great players, the league is competitive and has a lot of exposure. The style of play is different here. It’s an uptempo type of game in the LNB, but very athletic”, stressed Kevin Franceschi.
Like for so many players world wide, he had to adapt to the COVID-19 situation and despite having been there a few months, he did have to wait a bit longer to play his first game with the team. “I was covid-19 positive on the test prior to the game. I did 3 straight positive tests, 2 of them with no symptoms at all, so I wasn’t with my team for 3 weeks. “Fortunately” I only missed one game and we won it”, answered Kevin Franceschi. Often in life it is connections that helps get one forward and moving into the perfect situation and it wasn´t any different for Franceschi. “I knew the current team captain Amara Sy, and we linked up after a while at his just created summer league in his hometown Cergy. We talked right after the end of it and he told me that he passed some words with the head coach of Paris Basketball Jean Christophe Prat about me joining the team. It started with a tryout”, added Kevin Franceschi. Paris Basket are still wearing diapers as they are only in their 3rd season of existence, but the goals are high. “I really enjoy my teammates and staff. I think we can do something big this year, if we stay mentally fit for it. The championship is definitely the ultimate goal”, said Kevin Franceschi. He also has been blessed to be able to call Amara Sy a teammate as there isn´t a more experienced French player then him who has 20 years of basketball experience at a high level. “Amara, “French Vino” he gets better with age they say. He’s a basketball emblem in France, it’s a blessing to be around him. He’s like a big brother to me definitely. 20 years in the LNB, how many guys do you know did that somewhere else? It’s a product of his work ethic and love for the game. He always gives great advices and try to keep a great team spirit. He played through different eras of French Basketball, and he won”, stated Kevin Franceschi.
He has been studying the game of Damian Lillard a lot the last years and this season has a totally different role than he ever had and will need to excel as a playmaker. “I play point guard this year, A different scenario than in Greece and Germany. I have to find a balance between passing and scoring, bring maximum energy on defense and impact the game on both ends of the floor”, expressed Kevin Franceschi. His scoring is a big weapon and won´t change this season despite his new role as a playmaker, but it is his three pointer that continues to be a work in progress. He never shot higher than 31% as a professional. “I made a lot of progress, even during the season I keep my shooting work going and make sure to hit certain numbers when working on it”, commented Kevin Franceschi. He is a player that always plays with a lot of energy and will make his teammates better this season and the fans have loved him where ever he has played. Being that fan favorite could be another possibility this season in Paris even if he isn´t quite sure about the notion. “A fan favorite I don’t know but I definitely approach every game with great energy and the supporters love that. I love that when I watch another sporting event. They pay to watch us, it’s our job to have high energy and perform for them as well. I hope I can inspire the fans in Paris for sure”, added Kevin Franceschi. Even if current times have been difficult with the seemingly neverending COVID-19 crisis and the drama happening in the United States surrounding the presidential election, he is ready for the season. “It’s definitely a crazy time, but I have no control over it, so I try to stay as positive as I can. I have a good rhythm now with basketball but it wasn’t easy for sure, especially this summer. I’ve been following the election a little bit lately, I still have a lot of friends in the U.S and I know it’s important for them. Besides that I try to not get involved with it, it’s always problems trying to have sound discussions with people over that subject. Most of the time they believe in one thing and one thing only, they won’t change their minds for anything”, stressed Kevin Franceschi. Even if he might not be able to help change the minds of some friends in the States about who is best, he will always be able to give his best and change the minds of basketball fans to getting on his side with his special basketball game in Paris.
Emanuel Terry is a 24 year old 206cm center from Alabama playing his third professional season and first with KK Crvena Zvezda MTS Beograd (Serbia-KLS). Last season was his first overseas as he played with Teksut Bandirma (Turkey-BSL) playing 20 games averaging 10.8ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 71.9%, FT: 65.3%; and played 14 BCL games averaging 11.9ppg, Reb-2 (9.9rpg), 1.9apg, 1.0spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 61.2%, FT: 64.1%, in Feb.’20 moved to Hapoel Jerusalem (Israel-Winner League) playing 10 games averaging 9.4ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 63.9%, FT: 66.7%; BCL: 2 games: 4.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.0spg. In his rookie season he played 3 NBA games with Phoenix and Miami and also played with the Canton Charge (NBA G League) playing 20 games averaging 8.1ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.8bpg, FGP: 59.6%, FT: 52.0%, and with the Sioux Falls Skyforce (NBA G League) playing 18 games averaging 14.1ppg, 9.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 59.6%, FT: 51.3%. He played at Lincoln Memorial (NCAA2) from 2014-2018 playing a total of 100 games and as a senior averaged 16.9ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.2apg, 2.2bpg, FGP: 71.1%, FT: 70.0. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Euroleague game against FC Bayern Munich in Munich.
Emanuel thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?
I’m in Belgrade, Serbia. It has been a fun experience playing for this club and playing against top tier teams in Europe. I want to continue to get better. I love hard work
Before we get to your basketball career, let us talk about Covid-19. How did you experience the last 7-8 months with COVID-19? What was the most challenging thing you encountered in these hard times?
COVID-19 was tough the last months. I had symptoms, but didn’t really feel anything. I took it for what it was. I didn’t know where I would play this season so I got that done and spent a lot of time with family and continued to keep in shape
You were one of the few guys that played during the summer in Israel for Hapoel Jerusalem. What kind of experience was it playing in the bubble and playing with Jeremy Pargo?
JP was my guy, my dancing partner. We had this special hand shake going. He did a good job helping me get my touch on the court and getting me going. At first it was tough playing without fans, but soon I realized it was less of a distraction. I also saw I could be very focused without fans. It was a good experience and helped me get better.
After playing In Turkey in your first season in Europe, how did you like playing in the Winner League? Was the league and climate a combination you would like to experience again?
Of course. Any basketball place is good when your playing at a high level. I tried to sponge up as much as I could in Israel. It is a place where I definitely would like to play again.
Your playing your first season with KK Crvena Zvezda MTS Beograd (Serbia-KLS). The club is up and down with 2-3 in the Euroleague and 4-0 in the ABA league. It has some talented players with some ex NBA guys like yourself, Jordan Loyd, Johnny O’ Bryant and Corey Walden. What type of a journey do you see this team taking this season?
We have a great coaching staff and I feel the team has connected well so far. We all have our backs and I feel we will do well this season.
What kind of an experience has it been being teammates with Johnny O’ Bryant who recently joined the team? After many years in the NBA how have you witnessed his game getting adjusted to the European style?
He has been doing well since he arrived. He has done a good job understanding the system in quick time. With time he will do better. Everybody knows what he brings to the table.
With Jordan Loyd you have a guard who won an NBA title withToronto. Does he have that special flair on the court that will be vital in bringing the needed leadership?
Most certainly. I actually didn’t know who he was when I arrived until I saw the Raptors victory celebration picture with Kawhi Leonard. He brings another special style to the court. He has the ability to pick us up in a special way. He is a great teammate.
How demanding it has it been playing for Serbian legend Sasa Obradovic? Give an example of something he has done that you have never seen from another coach in your career?
The main thing with him is that he is very direct. A lot of people see him as being crazy, but he isn’t. He is a coach that is studying basketball all day and always trying to perfect his craft. He wants the best for us at all times. He is always fixing details so we can always be the last team standing.
You’re a player that can score and rebound and also bring a lot of energy on the defensive end. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?
I have been told Kenneth Faried. I feel I’m a better player though. I’m the type of player that will score, rebound and bring it on defense as well as making that highlight film play. I actually met Kenneth when I was with the Suns. He actually knew who I was. I’m just the type of player that can do a lot of things that will help my team win.
You averaged double double stats in scoring and rebounding at Lincoln Memorial and was close in the G-League and in Turkey. Bringing those kind of stats will be hard in the Euroleague. What kind of player do you want to develop into at the Euroleague level?
I bring energy all the time on the court. Some guys get tired out there , but if you go hard all the time good things will happen. I knew coming in to the Euroleague that getting a double double or 20 points would be hard. I’m trying to become the main perfect role player at a young age. It is peaceful to know what I’m capable of being able to do. I know I can benefit a lot.
On what area’s of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to develop well as a player?
I’m working most on my jump shot and touch. I feel that these things haven’t come into the open yet. I also want to become louder on the floor. Each team where ever I have played have told me to do something different and I always did. I will continue to perfect my craft and be real.
You played your first season overseas with Teksut Bandirma (Turkey-BSL) playing 20 games averaging 10.8ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 71.9%, FT: 65.3%; and played 14 BCL games averaging 11.9ppg, Reb-2 (9.9rpg), 1.9apg, 1.0spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 61.2%, FT: 64.1%. What was your wake up call to being in Turkey for the first time where you knew that you were far away from home?
It was a quick decision to come to Turkey. I tell this story all the time. I was reluctant to go back to the G-League after my NBA Summer League stint with the Thunder. It was a blessing to get 2 NBA 10 day contracts, but at that time I wanted to see what overseas was like. I didn’t want to come to Turkey for the sight seeing, but to continue to develop my game. In the NBA there is so much space, but in Europe there is more aggressiveness in the paint. Despite having that feeling, when I arrived in Turkey my first thought was what did I get myself into. There was no English and I heard the jets fly overhead and I thought were we going to war? I was stuck in a hotel for 2 weeks and when I did get an apartment, I was surprised to see stores in them. It was a big adjustment. Thank God for Little Caesars. I felt a little more at home having that around. That first month I ate there a lot.
In your third BSL games you beat Euroleague team Efes by 18 points scoring 13 points. Efes boasted guys like Chris Singleton, James Anderson and Bryant Dunston. Was this the game where you felt like you had arrived in Europe?
I do remember that game well. I remember my mom telling me when I was young that when I was going into a big game to bring that David from David & Goliath. That taught me that I could go against the bigger and be successful. After that game I knew that I could perform at a high level. I just had to be me.
In the summer of 2019 you played with the Oklahoma City Thunder (MGM Resorts NBA Summer League in Las Vegas) playing 4 games averaging 6.5ppg, 2.5rpg, FGP: 55.6%, FT: 50.0%. was coming to Europe instead of going through a NBA team training camp the best solution for you?
I truly believe that I made a great decision coming overseas. I feel like my name is global now. I have to admit at times I do have that what if feeling about had I stayed in the States, but I know that by coming to Europe, I have the opportunity to get better. Overseas isn’t for everybody, but I love it. I have the mind set that I have a task in Europe to get better for myself and my family. I would not trade this opportunity for anything. It is refreshing to be on that flight home knowing you have conquered all.
As a rookie in 2018-2020 you played in the G-League and in the NBA for Phoenix and Miami coming form a NCAA 2 school. Not many NCAA 2 guys have reached the NBA. If someone had told you going into your senior year at Lincoln Memorial that you would play in the NBA what would you have thought?
Honestly I said that I would reach the NBA. I told my mom in the summer before 10th grade I want to go to the NBA. I didn’t have that much confidence then despite saying it, but my mom made it more realistic for me. Senior year was like a blur for me. We were beating teams by 20 points each night. At the end of the season we had our last game on Saturday and on Monday I had a try out with the Detroit Pistons. I had no agent and was surprised. The Pistons reached out to coach and gave me a number and coach said good luck to me.
You played in 3 NBA games. What will you always remember most from your NBA experience the most?
I will remember most being around great athletes that are well known. I also won’t forget working with great coaching staffs. I remember seeing so many stars in the stands. I also won’t forget being around high level players like Dwayne Wade and Jamal Crawford. I will never forget their response to me being there. They were happy for me. They also told me that if I kept doing well, there should be no reason why I shouldn’t be in the NBA.
You played your first NBA game against the Los Angeles Lakers being very efficient in 9 minutes scoring 5 points, getting 3 boards, 1 assist and 2 steals. What still comes to mind with your first game?
I remember this game well. I remember having my warm up suit on and being tense. I would unbutton it a few times thinking I might get in. Then coach pointed at me and I got a rush. It was actually my first NBA game I played in before ever having been at a NBA game. I have never been at a NBA game as a spectator.
How disappointing was it not battling against Lebron James? Was it somewhat of a consolation seeing an older Rajon Rondo in action?
Lebron was resting. It was cool to see him though. I remember when I checked in, a guy was at the free throw line. I remember Michael Beasley being to my left and Rajon Rondo was on my right. They were taunting me playfully like that Big bro little bro thing. It was their warm welcome to me to the NBA, but they were nice. They were very positive to me.
What kind of an experience was it playing together with Devin Booker? Does he sometimes get lost in the shuffle with the best in the NBA because he plays for a losing team?
I remember Devin being a player that would do anything to help impact a team to win. When I was there things just weren’t clicking for the team, but that’s life. I remember him always encouraging his teammates and doing anything to win. I remember when my 10 day stay was over that he called me and said that I deserved to have the spot and to keep going and that he was looking forward to seeing me again.
You played 1 game for the Miami Heat and was lucky to witness Dwayne Wade. What did it mean to be teammates with him and how did he handle you as a guy who was there for only a very short time?
He was so humble right from day 1 when I was there. There was the main locker room and then another one for the 10 day guys. I remember bumping into Udonis Haslem and he congratulating me and Dwayne Wade said ‘congrats young fella, it’s good that you’re here. I remember the first day of practice and it was Wade, Ryan Anderson and me doing a drill. I said to Wade that I would set up a pin down for Anderson and he said we can do that. Anderson hit the shot. Assistant coach Juwan Howard asked me who had taught me that. He said that the way the play was run was elite.
What was the best example that you saw during your time in the NBA and G-League that it is a business and nothing more?
I saw a lot of examples. There will never be any bad blood from me to the NBA. I saw that the NBA was a business when I was with the Thunder in the NBA Summer League. I always went hard from day one and always came in early. I was always friendly when talking with the higher ups. That showed me that despite all I did, I would only be good enough for an Exhibition 10 contract or for the G-League. I questioned myself if I really wanted to go through that again. Everybody wants that NBA contract I decided to try a different route with Europe. You can’t question the NBA process but fall in love with it.
Your only in your second professional season. How present is the NBA still in your mind. Loads of guys have come to Europe from the NBA and returned.
I love the fact that I was born in 1996. My professional process has been quick and surprising. My main priority now is to continue to build up my resume and help Red Star now. If the NBA doesn’t call now, then I have a big opportunity to perform and present myself in Europe. The NBA will always be there. I just have to be ready.
You played at Lincoln Memorial (NCAA 2) from 2014-2018 wining the SAC tournament in 2016 and 2018. Which title was the sweetest?
I would say the first one. There were like 4,000 people living in that area and 4,000 people filled the arena. That whole season was a blur. I just remember cutting down the net. That is something I will always remember.
You improved your points and rebounds each season at Lincoln Memorial. How do you feel did you develop as a player there best?
D-2 has a lot of amazing athletes. I was able to play for a great coaching staff that took the time to build me up. I remember being in coaches office as a freshman crying real tears. I wanted to be good. Coach Scherz said ‘Emmanuel you’re a great kid, but if you were good today then we would be awful’. I knew then that it would be a long process to become good and I trusted it. I remember assistant coach Omar Wattad telling me as I was going into my junior year that I would be the man on the court. He trusted me. We spoke a couple of hours. I wanted to do well so badly, but it would take time. I thank him to this day that he helped me.
In your sophomore season you had 8 points, 6 rebounds and 8 blocks in a win over Newberry. Was that one of those games where you were in the zone on the defensive end?
Newberry is a team that always plays at a very high pace. They will sub in 5 guys and a few seconds later a new 5. Coach told me that game that he needed me. I knew that I could affect the game with my energy. I knew that If I did that good things would happen.
What memories do you have of Dorian Pinson? He had similar stats that you had at Lincoln Memorial, but as a professional played in the German and Israeli second division. Is this a good example that there are so many talented guys and too little top teams to play for?
He came in the same time as me and left at the same time. He was my roommate for many years. We always pushed each other. These things happen in life with how guys get opportunities. There are so many guys that deserve an opportunity, but don’t get it.
I have interviewed 2 ex Lincoln Memorial players with Vincent Bailey and Dorian Pinson. Bailey said this about your ex coach Josh Schertz ‘He taught me worth ethic, how to be a competitor and how to stay focused on the goal for the team but taking it one day at a time instead of worrying about the end result’. Pinson said this about Schertz ‘Josh Schertz is hands down one of the best coaches I have ever had more than just basketball with him so many life lessons along with trials and tribulations throughout my college career wouldn’t have wanted to go through it with anybody else as my coach better yet a close friend’. How did he groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?
He was like a second father for me. He constantly reminded us to never remember the time, but the moment. You could always go to him for anything. He always tried to help you become the best version of yourself. He had so much trust in me and allowed me to perform. I benefited a lot from him and he did the same as well.
Who won a one on one in practice you or Rhondi Hackett?
We called him slight 40. He had so much potential. He was my little brother. At the start he was just a shooter, but with time he could play with his face and back to the basket. I had more experience than him and made things tough for him. But I did tell him that he had potential.
Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA 2 that went to the NBA?
A guy by the name of Daniel Jansen. He was a dog that could shoot the three, but also post up and pass. He wasn’t the quickest, but was a tough cookie. I thought that he was NBA material. I will never forget him.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Lincoln Memorial Sophomore team, Duncan Robinson, Deandre Liggins, Briante Webber
Pleas construct your own personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?
Jordan, Lebron, Kobe, Shaq
What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James?
It’s so tough, because they played in different era’s. Lebron is the man now. When I watched the Jordan documentary it really raised eye brows for me. I never watched Jordan so for me it would be Lebron.
If Karl Malone would have been true to his nickname and dressed up for a day as a mail man in Cincinnati, Ohio in the mid 90´s where he was more than a house hold name in The NBA averaging 25,0ppg and 10rpg on the street where current easyCredit BBL identity figure and Fraport Skyliner lifer Quantez Robertson lived, there is a good chance that the freak athlete may not even have recognized him. Ok so Karl Malone is a huge noticeable figure at 206cm and 113 kilo´s, but back in the mid 90´s, it was safe to say that Tez wasn´t following Malone´s team. “To be honest, I didn´t really know to much about him. Growing up I didn´t have the opportunity to watch Utah Jazz games. I did know that he was a great offensive player and a strong power forward”, stressed ex Auburn(NCAA) guard Quantez Robertson. Karl Malone was easily the worlds greatest basketball player during Michael Jordan´s short baseball career and over many stretches the greatest even when he and Jordan was dueling. Numbers never lie and Malone had better one´s, but it was the 6 NBA rings that put Jordan over the top. Malone had an easier time finding rings for his many women, but on the court, he never was able to win one in the NBA. The same could be said for Quantez Roberson. Both Malone and Robertson share a similarity in which they never won a league title. They luckly have won at something as Malone was an instrumental piece in the 1992 Dream Team Gold medal win in Barcelona while Quantez Robertson won the Fiba Europe Cup in 2016. The way Robertson ahs played out his heart now for 12 seasons, it is a shame that he has never been rewarded with a BBL league title. He definitely wants to win one badly and for years now has predicted one in pre season. “Predicting a title is something I have always done no matter where I played. That is what we as players play for. We want to win every-time. I´m pretty sure every player thinks the same way I do, but the difference is not everybody says it openly the way I do. The athletic guard also doesn´t see his yearly title prediction as crazy, but a special motivation. “We will always work hard regardless, but we already have the motivation anyway just to go hard each day and play hard and win. First we have the motivation to get to the playoffs. Once we are there, our motivation rises and we feel more motivated to get the title”; warned Quantez Robertson.
The season of the Fraport Skyliners was pretty much already history in March 2020 and as COVID-19 was about ready to hit Europe, most Skyliner fans were already looking to the next season and what could happen, but then everything changed within days. The easyCredit BBL was able to finish their season in June 2020 with a season ending tournament in Munich where the Fraport Skyliners absolutely had no business being, but because so many teams refused to play, were able to slip into the tournament. It wasn´t a great tournament for the 2004 BBL champion as they were able to only edge out 1 win while losing 5. The most positive thing gained by this appearance was that the young players were able to get minutes. Len Schoorman profited the most and turned some heads. He is definitely a player who could make his break through this season at only age 19. With COVID having struck the world so hard and harming and destroying many businesses, the German basketball scene also suffered. It is no secret that the next few years won´t be an easy one financially for many clubs. The Fraport Skyliners are also a club that won´t have the budget they had last season which in turn will effect the type of quality of players the team can get. The team began by saving money by having almost half their roster filled with young German double license players Len Schoorman, Maxi Begue, Bruno Vrcic, Jordan Samare and new arrival Matthew Meredith. Meredith is a tall German 20 year old versatile point guard who made his Pro A debut at age 14 and played many years in Nurnberg. He never made his Pro A break through and now will hope to take on the tough challenge in Frankfurt. It will be interesting to see what kind of a step 18 year old Len Schoorman makes in 2020-2021. “I don´t think it will be asking too much for Len to be able to average 10 points a game, but I think more important will be that he continues to develop his jump shot and decision making”, warned Quantez Robertson. The most important player they held was Fraport Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson who turns 36 in December. Just having his presence on the court is a plus. He has a special aura that will infect any player to perform above and beyond. He may not be as quick as 7 years ago, but all-around he hasn´t slown down much as he still feels the stat sheet like no other and last season played 27 games averaging 11.0ppg, 4.9rpg, 4.0apg, Steals-2(1.9spg), FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 69.9%. As always his expectations are very high of himself as he has 3 major focuses. “I need to make sure I stay healthy. I have been very fortunate to have been healthy most of my career. I need to always stay active on the court and lead my team in the right way”, warned Quantez Robertson. The team also kept 31 year old 199cm forward/center Marco Voeller. This will be his 4th season with the club as he returns 71 BBL games experience. He brings that great work ethic to work each day and on the court is a physical player that can make the big defensive play and just does what´s needed in the paint. He isn´t the most consistent finisher, but when he gets the position, he usually will do good things. The club also held on two once big German prospect Richard Freudenberg. The 22 year old 204cm forward that played 26 NCAA games for St Johns(NCAA) has played 84 games for the Fraport Skyliners in 3 seasons and is still looking for his break through. He is a mobile power forward that can shoot, rebound and move well with the ball, but has problems with his free throw shooting and one on one defense. If he could find some consistency, then he could finally achieve his break through season.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Quantez Robertson during the 2016 Fiba Europe Cup parade in Frankfurt
The Frankfurt organization also picked up some new talented players. The most remembered is Konstantin Klein who played 133 games with the Fraport Skyliners from 2012-2016. He did have to battle injuries, but he did make a nice development in Frankfurt. He played the last 4 years in Bonn and Ludwigsburg and also had to cope with injuries there. He knows how to run a team and is a pest on the defensive end. Robertson is happy to have the never ending fighter back on the squad and knows what he can do now which he didn´t then. “He has calmed down a lot more on the court and isn´t as hectic anymore. He is still a very aggressive on ball defender. He takes a lot of pride on the defensive end and he will be that same type of defender”, stressed Quantez Robertson. The club also added 29 year old 206cm forward/center Michael Kessens. He brings a lot of experience to Frankfurt having played in the NCAA with schools Longwood, University of Alabama and Florida International University. This will be his 4th professional season and fourth BBL season after playing the last 3 seasons with Bremerhaven and Rasta Vechta where he played 87 games. He excels on the pick and role and knows how to make the right pass from the post. The last missing piece down low was recently picked up with Kamari Murphy. He is a 26 year old 203cm athletic big man from Brooklyn, New York. He brings NCAA experience with Oklahoma State and Miami and professionally played in the G-League and Belgium. Last season he played with Rasta Vechta (Germany-BBL) playing 21 BBL games averaging 5.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 72.0%; and played 12 BCL games averaging 6.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 47.8%. The big man likes to finish with his quickness and like a Quantez Robertson gives the team a lot of energy. The 3 big men with Voeller, Kessens and Murphy will compliment each other well. “Last season we had leon Kratzer who liked to work with his back to the basket. These year all of our 3 big men are very athletic and will finish around the rim”, added Quantez Robertson.
The club´s first transfer came early in the summer with Rasheed Moore. The 25 year old 196cm forward from Pennsylvania is living the real basketball Cinderella story who made the jump form the German Regionalliga to the easyCredit BBL in just 3 years. He played 3 years with Pro A team wiha Panthers Villingen-Schwenningen and helped them move up a division twice. Each season he proved he could make the jump up the next level. Last season with the wiha Panthers Villingen-Schwenningen (Germany-ProA) he averaged 15.6ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 73.0%. He is a player who always gives 110% on the court that has a all around good game. He definitely has impressed his teammate Tez so far. “He has been doing real well adjusting to the BBL. He may be an undersized 4 player, but he can move and can shoot. He will eb a real help for us this season”, stated Quantez Robertson. The most interesting signing could be Jon Axel Gudmundsson from Iceland. He is a 24 year old 196cm guard that comes direct from well known north Carolina basketball school Davidson that brought the NBA Steph Curry and Germany loads of players in the past like De´Mon Brooks, Wayne Bernard, Ben Ebong, Narcisse Ewodo, and Brendan Winters just to name a few. The former Atlantic 10 tournament winner. The consistent offensive player that averaged 7,0 rebounds in his last 2 seasons in the NCAA also has a very keen basketball IQ and can shoot out the lights. He also could surprise a lot of people with another strength that will get him to the free throw line a lot. “Jon is a big strong guard that can shoot the ball well, but he also likes to attack the rim. He could very well lead the team in free throw attempts. He also talks on the court and tries to help get guys into the right position”, said Quantez Robertson. The most key signing was explosive scorer Matt Mobley who only played 1 game last season for Frankfurt before cOVID-19 came. He is a 26 year old 190cm guard that has scored everywhere he has played form the NCAA to Belgium and Turkey. The American could be the team´s bests corer in a long time. “Matt will be our #1 scoring option. He is always clam and relaxed on the floor. He can shoot the ball at a high clip and will help us with getting more attraction opening up the floor. He should be our best three point shooter”, stressed Quantez Robertson. Running the team this season will be 25 year old 180cm point guard Manu Lecomte. The Belgium national player had a solid career at Baylor(NCAA) reaching a NCAA Sweet 16 and had a strong rookie season with Agua Caliente Clippers of Ontario (NBA G League) averaging 14.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 4.3apg, 2FGP: 50.8%, 3FGP: 40.2%, FT: 86.2% and got experience in Spain with Universidad Catolica de Murcia CB (Spain ACB) averaging 6.1ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 38.5%, 3FGP: 30.6%, FT: 79.4%, and with Herbalife Gran Canaria (Spain-ACB) averaging 5.4ppg, 1.0apg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 80.0%, FT: 90.0%. “He is a fast scoring point guard who can shoot and pass the ball well. He can be a vocal leader for us and defensively will be a plus when he and Konsti go full court”, warned Quantez Robertson.
Last season the club had massive problems scoring points on a consistent basis and had to rely too much on their defense. Even when they defended well, it wasn´t enough for a win. The club didn´t play as much transition last season, but that could change this season as well as a few other things. “I believe that we will play more uptempo this season because we have more athletic players. That like to push the ball. We will have normal number of sets, but not always be using them with our uptempo style. A big goal of ours this season is too execute better than we did last season. We have to always move the ball well and shoot better than last season. I think we have mor shooters this season so that should help us more”, added Quantez Robertson. The club hasn´t defended to well in the last years in comparison to what they were doing 5-6 years ago, but surprisingly with their 82 points on average let up points still belonged to the best defensive teams last season. Wanting to be the best defensive club is still a goal like it has been each season in the last years. “Most important this season for us being successful is holding each other accountable on the defensive end”, warned Quantez Robertson. So where will the basketball journey of the Fraport Skyliners end this season? The great thing about the Fraport Skyliners is that they are always good for a win against any team. Last season they were always hard working, but had injury woes. The team never has the most talent, but somehow the team always comes on the court ready to play. Their big goal should be to become the best defensive team possible and let that spark their offense. This could be a very good offensive team. They have a lot of potential and are stronger than last season. Anything is possible this season. The club should finish somewhere between 7-12. Quantez Robertson is the youngest anymore and isn´t getting any younger so winning that first BBL league title won´t come around so many more years or could it? The drive and focus of Quantez Robertson is huge to win and not retiring until he wins has crossed his mind. “I mean not retiring until I win could be apossiblity, but it might not happen. I want to play as long as I can”, warned Quantez Robertson. The passion to win won´t stop for Robertson, because he knows that he and Karl Malone are missing something. “Karl and I have won, but we just haven´t won the title we really wanted”, warned Quantez Robertson.
German Hoops 