All I could think the last days was nothing would be the same. As I was approaching Basketball City Mainhatten, the short phrase “nothing would be the same” got louder and stronger as I was in the building. I passed the restaurant and the entrance to the Titus Terme and then I reached the BCM. Instead of just walking in, I was greeted at the door and there was that COVID-19 mask once again something that has become a part of everyone´s life in 2020, the way us Bostonians love our Fenway Franks at Boston Redsox games. Those Franks and masks are a part of life. Seeing no fans was something I had to get used to, but the worst thing for me personally was the post game procedure something that I would have to get used to quickly this season. Having that special proximity to the players is very important, because I love getting those exclusive quotes to spice up my tell all articles and just going up to them and introducing myself was as normal for me now for more than a decade the same way it is for me to brush my teeth or do my 10 KM training each day on the roads. I didn´t want to think about the post game yet and just enjoy 40 minutes of basketball. One thing that hadn´t changed was that Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson was still there as each season. That will most likely not change until the Alabama native can´t run anymore. The only thing that really remained the same was that there were many new faces on each team. 2010 Eurochallnge winner BG Goettingen had many new faces and for me the 2 most interesting were ex NBA player Jorge Gutierrez and rookie Christian Vital who came from legendary NCAA school UConn and will handle the point guard duties this season. On the other side the Fraport Skyliners as usual weren´t complete yet as a few Americans were still missing, but also had many new interesting faces on the floor like Jon Axel Gudmundsson, Rasheed Moore, Michael Kessens and Matthew Meredith. An old known head was back with the versatile guard Konstantin Klein. Another thing, I had to get used to was the special seating arrangements. Each journalist had a certain place to seat which made me feel like I was not at a basketball game, but in the German cinema where seating arrangement has always been an option. Even If the Fraport Skyliners led after the first, second and third quarters, a game has 40 minutes and in crunch-time, the 2016 FIBA Europe Cup team let the game slip away and in the end lost 83-76. After the game Fraport Skyliners head coach Sebastian Gleim stood behind a plastic like window and answered the journalists questions. Despite the loss, he was upbeat since you can´t overrate the first test game. “Everyday we have 2 opponents with COVID-19 and our basketball opponent. Life right now is a big challenge for all. We were all happy today that we could play a game again. I thought it was a pretty good game to watch. I liked our energy on the court. At the end there was a difference in the physicality and we missed some things on defense and didn´t make shots. We had a lot of players not playing their natural position. But overall we reached more today than I expected”, expressed Fraport Skyliners head coach Sebastian Gleim. After the win a low beat Christian Vital expressed his thoughts about the win. “This was the first time that we played against a different team. We didn´t respond well in first half, but in the second half brought more energy, we started hitting more shots, rebounding and finishing better”, explained ex Uconn Huskie Christian Vital.

                Both teams were without key players as the Fraport skyliners were without Konstantin Klein while BG Goettingen was without ex NBA player Jorge Gutierrez. Frankfurt also presented Belgium national player Emmanuel Lecomte who has been in Frankfurt just staying in shape. Sebastian Gleim called him up 10 days ago and asked him if he wanted to come to Frankfurt and he obliged and took a train from Brussels to Frankfurt to help the team. Also practice player Alex Herrera who had belonged to the best Pro A forwards the last years with Phoenix Hagen and Science City Jena had left after signing with a club in Austria. The Fraport Skyliners got up on the wrong side of the bed as BG Goettingen jumped all over Frankfurt in the first few minutes taking a swift 8-0 lead. BG Goettingen got huge support from young German Marvin Omuvwie who last played with the Hamburg Towers scoring twice, big man Tai Odiase who came from the Greensboro Swarm (NBA G League) and also played in Greece made a tap in and Aubrey Dawkins who is the son of ex NBA player Johnny Dawkins made free throws. BG Goettingen played aggressive at both ends of the court while Frankfurt were erratic in their set plays. The Fraport Skyliners finally got on the board at the 7,10 minute mark as ex wiha Panthers Schwenningen forward Rasheed Moore dropped a trey. Basketball is a game of runs  and now it was the Fraport Skyliners turn and they produced with a 13-0 run to take the 16-10 advantage. Key in this run was Emmanuel Lecomte who didn´t start came off the bench scoring in bunches with a jumper and trey and young German talent Jordan Samare who wasn´t playing his natural position made a tap in and lay in and German veteran Marco Voeller also made a tap in. Lecomte gave Frankfurt instant offense and confidence while BG Goettingen let up on aggressiveness on defense. Down the stretch BG Goetingen got some crucial baskets from rookie and ex North Carolina A&T State University (NCAA) forward Ronald Jackson and Christian Vital nailed a tough three pointer while Frankfurt got baskets from new players Jon Axel Gudmundsson and Michael Kessens as Frankfurt led 22-18 after 10 minutes. Both teams shot over 40% from the field, but poorly from outside while the story of the game was the Frankfurt 14-6 rebound advantage where Michael Kessens had 7.

            In the second quarter the Fraport Skyliners were able to keep their lead upping their defense and holding BG Goettingen to 13 points. Tai Odiase got BG Goettingen on the board first, but their inconsistency in execution allowed Frankfurt to go on a 5-0 tun to extend their lead to 27-20 getting a tip in from Moore and free throws from Lecomte and Len Schoorman. Both teams were sloppy, but that is expected in the first preseason game, but Frankfurt kept their lead and got valuable baskets from Gudmundsson and Moore for the 32-24 lead. One interesting stat in the second quarter was the team fouls. Frankfurt had got 4 early, but BG Goettingen could take advantage of it and later were hit with their 5^th as Frankfurt still had 4. Every once in a while, BG Goettingen got some points as Dawkins and Jackson scored, but at the break, the Fraport Skyliners still had the 37-31 lead. Frankfurt had a bad shooting quarter from the field while BG Goettingen was still over 40%, but both teams shot 25% from outside. Frankfurt continued to dominate the boards 24-16 and had 11 offensive rebounds, while BG Goettingen couldn´t take care of the ball having 8 turnovers in the quarter.

            In the third quarter the Fraport Skyliners were able to keep the lead, but had problems generating sufficient offense as BG Goettingen defended better and held Frankfurt without a field goal for almost 7 minutes. Despite defending so well, BG Goettingen had massive problems scoring and could compensate holding Frankfurt 7 minutes without a field goal. Despite Kessens controlling the boards, BG Goettingen big man Odiase continued to be a work horse as well on the boards made a put back while the German combination of Omuvwie and Nelson Weidemann who was 2017 NBBL champion with FC Bayern Munich combined for a bucket. Omuvwie made a block and Weidemann went coast to coast for the basket, but Frankfurt led 38-37. BG Goettingen was close to taking the lead on a British national player Luke Nelson´s three to tie the score at 40-40, but Frankfurt was able to find ways to get to the free throw line while still waiting to get that first field goal of the quarter. Frankfurt then went on a crushing 8-0 run getting free throws from Moore and Lecomte and Kessens then scored twice giving Frankfurt it´s first goal of the quarter at the 3,30 minute mark. Frankfurt has Lecomte for scoring in buckets while BG Goettingen countered with Dawkins who scored 6 unanswered points to get his team back close to 48-46. Vital scored and Dawkins then gave BG Goettingen the 51-50 lead, but Lecomte had the last laugh getting a lay in for the 52-51 Frankfurt lead after three quarters. “We picked up our defense and just continued to stay poised”, stressed Christian Vital. The Fraport Skyliners continued to shoot poorly from the field at 33% and only 16% from outside While BG Goettingen was still above 40% from the field and at 20% from outside. Frankfurt continued to control the boards at 34-28 and had an amazing 15 offensive rebounds. BG Goettingen continued to be careless with the ball getting 8 turnovers in the quarter totaling 18.

            The fourth quarter was a dog fight, but in crunch-time, it was BG Goettingen that executed better. BG Goettingen also began the fourth quarter better going on a quick 6-0 run to retake the lead at 57-52. The run was started by Vital making a pull up jumper which was followed by a three pointer and free throws by 25 year old German Andrew Onwuegbuzie. Frankfurt had no rhythm on offense and made bad turnover´s including a missed dunk. Frankfurt found some daylight with a Rasheed Moore offense rebound and put back to cut the BG Goettingen lead to 57-55. But Vital quickly silenced Frankfurt with a big trey for the 60-55 lead. “I always try to help my team. I made a good read and made the shot”, stressed Christian Vital. “Vital is a good shooter. We had to have done a better job taking that away from him”, added Frankfurt head coach Sebastian Gleim. Frankfurt suddenly executed well getting 3 consecutive baskets to tie the score at 62-62. Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson scored inside, Marco Voeller scored in the lane and Moore nailed a three pointer. Both teams were high on adrenaline and were trading baskets and runs. BG Goettingen took the lead back with a Weidemann trey and Vital free throws to lead 67-62, but Frankfurt responded right away with a Kessens bucket and three free throws from Lecomte to dead lock the game at 67-67. After Dawkins and Kessens traded buckets, it was Odiase who made a exciting and spectacular hard two handed alley op dunk for the 71-69 lead. But Frankfurt had an answer again as Quantez Robertson stroked home a clutch trey for the 72-71 advantage. But Frankfurt then would have no more answers as BG Goettingen rattled off a 9-0 run to secure the win. In the run, BG Goettingen got clutch baskets from ex MBC player Benedikt Turoic, Dawkins and Weidemann for the 80-72 advantage. Len Schoorman made 1/3 free throws and Vital and Robertson traded three pointers to end the game. “Basketball is a game of runs. After we took the lead, we took control late getting the win”, said Christian Vital. “We weren´t tired. They hit some tough shots. If they make 2 less three´s then it´s a different ball game”, stated Marco Voeller. BG Goettingen was led by Aubrey Dawkins with 21 points. Christian Vital produced 21 points and Tai Odiase added 12 points. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Emmanuel Lecomte with 16 points, Rasheed Moore added 14 points and Michael Kessen had 13 points and 14 boards. BG Goettingen shot 50% form the field and 32% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 23 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 36% from the field and 25% from outside and had 43 rebounds and 16 turnovers.

Summer pretty much began in March for all basketball players because of COVID-19 and for a while it seemed like it would never end. The last official game for the Dragons Rhondorf was on March 7^th where they got creamed 100-82 in Cologne and 2019 German batchelor Andrej Mangold was as close to a triple double and the Dragons Rhondorf were led by Dijon Allen-Jordan with 22 points. It was a long extended summer where the easyCredit BBL and NBA was available for basketball in those times when you needed it most. With summer having found it´s way back to Germany in September, it was finally time for basketball again even if it was only preseason. The Dragons Rhondorf traveled south down the beautiful Rhein river to battle new Pro B team EPG Baskets Koblenz who could quietly be a contender as they have built up a very competitive squad and seemingly feels like they persuaded half of the BIS Baskets team to come play for them. The Dragons Rhondorf have built a very interesting young squad while Koblenz has formed a very scary team with established Pro B players like Brian Butler, CJ Oldham, DJ Woodmore, Michael Acosta, Zaire Thompson, Jacob Mampuya and Eidn Alispahic. This was definitely going to be a tough challenge for the ex Pro A team Dragons Rhondorf, but since it is preseason, it was an opportunity for all to get better acquainted with each other on the court and start building team chemistry. Going into the game, new Pro B team EPG Baskets Koblenz were the huge favorite, but one would never have believed it through 40 minutes of play as they only had 3 leads as the Dragons Rhondorf played a hard spirited game, but especially a solid defensive game something they couldn´t do last season as they upset Koblenz 64-61 in preseason action. After the game a relaxed and very pleased Paul Albrecht broke down the 40 minutes. “We had a short rotation with an average of something like 18 years of age only. We worked really hard today. It was amazing how calm and collected the team was in tough situations. I like how we adapted to their physicality. We have a special team. Nobody needs to score 30 points. I´m very proud how the team fought and played today”, explained ex Hanau forward Paul Albrecht. After the upset loss, the Koblenz players were quiet while doing their post game stretches as they were trying to digest the embarrassing loss. “The bad start hurt us. We allowed them to build their confidence up as the game went on. They hit tough shots early on and having to constantly come back cost us a lot of energy. We had to many turnovers and have to improve our defense”, stated ex ScanPlus Baskets forward Brian Butler.

                The EPG Baskets Koblenz were without their starting point guard DJ Woodmore while the Dragons Rhondorf were without 4 double license players including Kilian Binapfl and Gabriel De Olveira and it didn´t take the Dragons Rhondorf long to jump all over the EPG Baskets Koblenz as they led 9-1 after only a few minutes. 18 year old Lithuanian talent Simas Lukosius who shot an overwhelming 48% from outside last season in the Regionalliga got going at once nailing a three, the young talented not officially signed player got a trey  and new Dragon Clint Schonheiter who came from FC Bayern Munich made a lay in. Rhondorf forced 3 turnovers while Koblenz was playing terrible one on one defense. After a timeout Koblenz found to their game a lot better slowly starting to claw back, but Rhondorf didn´t relinquish the lead yet. Koblenz got extra force from ex easyCredit BBL slam dunk champion Brian Butler who was controlling the offensive glass getting one offensive rebound after another as Rhondorf looked like a helpless child. Butler made a tip in and put back dunk while also getting free throws from ex BBL player Jacob Mampuya and ex Giessen player Lukas Mayer to cut the Rhondorf lead to 15-10. But Rhondorf stayed in command getting consistent baskets as Paul Albrecht and ex Leverkusen point guard Jacob Englehardt perfected the pick and roll and back to back three´s  gave Rhondorf the comfortable 24-17 advantage. The EPG Baskets Koblenz never let up as Butler continued to live on the glass making another put back dunk, but the Dragons Rhondorf led 27-22 after 10minutes.

                In the second quarter the offensive arsenal that both teams supplied in the first quarter was doused a bit as both teams stepped it up on the defensive end. Once again the EPG Baskets Koblenz got off to a rocky start allowing the Dragons Rhondorf to go on a 5-0 run to extend their lead to 32-22. Athletic teenager number 11(not officially signed yet) made a lay in while going coast to coast and Lukusius also went coast to coast for a lay in as the club was perfecting their transition game. But a talented and offensive hungry team like Koblenz can´t stay cold long as they went on a 7-2 run to cut the Rhondorf lead down to 34-29. In the run they got valuable support from Mampuya who took on the Butler role and scored twice inside including a dunk and 32 year old Bosnian veteran Edin Alispahic nailed a trey. The EPG Baskets Koblenz were shooting the ball better while Rhondorf didn´t always make the best decisions, but that is expected from a young team. Both teams continued to defend with heart while making baskets. The Dragons Rhondorf kept the lead getting a three from Eddy Burgunder and a late lay in from the young talented unsigned player after getting the no look pass from Lukusius. At the break the ex Pro A team Dragons Rhondorf led 39-34.

                After getting up on the wrong side of the bed in the first and second quarters, the EPG Baskets Koblenz finally began well in the third quarter rushing out on a rapid 7-2 run to take their first lead of the game 42-41 at the 6,01 minute mark. The EPG Baskets Koblenz had their best set play of the game up to that point as Butler made a lay in. Koblenz got more points from ex Fordham(NCAA) guard Zaire Thompson who scored on transition, another lay in on transition from ex Leverkusen Forward CJ Oldham and Alspahic gave Koblenz the lead with a 20 footer from the baseline. But that lead didn´t last long as Engelhardt dropped a trey to give Rhondorf the 44-42 lead. Oldham showed his athleticism with a nifty floater to dead lock the contest at 44-44. Rhondorf captured the advantage back with a clutch trey from Paul Albrecht and 16 year old Serbian guard Nikola Petojevic answered with a lay in. Rhondorf really put on the pressure in the last few minutes as Koblenz lost concentration on defense and allowed a tap in by Paul Albrecht and a tap inside by Clint Schonheiter for the 53-47 Rhondorf lead. “We never lowered our heads which can occur with a young team but played consistent defense. We played for each other. We did make mistakes, but compensated in other areas”, added Paul Albrecht. “We defended better. Not defending well in the first half was mental. We fought more and stayed in the game”, said Brian Butler. The halftime talk from EPG Baskets Koblenz head coach Danny Rodriguez was a loud one as one could hear him yelling “Stop feeling sorry for yourselves and stop playing like girls”.

                The fourth quarter was a real dog fight as both clubs found a way to continue to play aggressive defense as offensive execution was limited despite fatigue creeping in. The Dragons Rhondorf got off to a good start getting a beautiful high rainbow from a yet not officially signed young player to help Rhondorf lead comfortably 56-47. But the EPG Baskets Koblenz were on their home court and weren´t about to fade in the late summer afternoon sun, but put all they had and put on a strong comeback attempt going on a hard fought 12-2 run to get their second lead of the game 59-58. In the run, Koblenz got a difficult lay in in traffic by Mampuya, a hard two handed stuff by Butler, a trey by Thompson, a lay in by Mampuya and another lay in by Thompson. Koblenz were rewarded by their hard defense which led to good offense and points on good set plays and they continued to get key offensive rebounds. Rhondorf was erratic in many moments as their youth and inexperience took a toll. “It is difficult to play consistent defense for any kind of a team. We kept our cool”, stated Paul Albrecht. But the Dragons Rhondorf got the lead back as the young unsigned and not official yet player made a tough runner in traffic to get the lead back at 60-59. The EPG Baskets Koblenz would lead one more time 61-60 thanks to a Butler lay in. Then came the deciding moment of the game as the so strong offensive rebound team Koblenz couldn´t secure a defensive rebound as they allowed the guests 5 chances and on the last Paul Albrecht made the lay in for the 62-61 advantage with 28 second remaining. Rhondorf closed out the game in style with 2 stops and free throws from Engelhardt and Schonheiter for the well deserved 64-61 win. “We kept our cool and luck always plays a part. We happened to get many extra chances and I made the offensive rebound and basket. Yassin Idbihi continues to tell us that last team´s defense was the worst of all-time. Well I think that today we showed that we can play a good defensive game”, said Paul Albrecht. “It was anybody´s game at the end, but we were tired. I like how we came back in the second quarter and showed that we could fight and we showed that we can build on it. Rhondorf played very good. They are a young team and will be able to compete in the Regionalliga”, warned Brian Butler. The Dragons Rhondorf were led by Mystery unsigned player with 15 points, Paul Albrecht netted 12 points while Nikola Petojevic, Clint Schonheiter and Jacob Engelhardt added 7 points a piece. The EPG Baskets Koblenz were led by Brian Butler with 19 points and Jacob Mampuya added 13 points.

Ricky Ledo is a 28 year old 201cm forward from Providence, Rhode Island who recently finished his 7th professional season and first with Anwil Wloclawek (Poland-EBL) averaging 16.7ppg, 4.8rpg, 4.5apg, Steals-4 (2.0spg), FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 79.7%. He never played in the NCAA, but was drafted by the Drafted by Milwaukee Bucks in the second round at #49 in 2013. From 2013-2016 he played in the States in the NBA and D-League. He played 28 NBA games with the Dallas Mavericks and New York Knicks and also played in the G-League with the Texas Legends and Reno Bighorns. He has played overseas since 2016 playing in countries like Turkey, Spain and Italy. He also played in China with the Beijing Dragons (China-CBA) averaging 32.5ppg, 9.6rpg, 5.3apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 77.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the Coronavirus crisis. 

Hi Ricky where are you at the moment and how is your current mood despite the world turmoil at the moment because of the out break of the Corona Virus?

I’m back home in Providence, Rhode Island with my family. My mood is ok, but the shut down isn’t a great feeling, but at the same time it’s like a blessing being able to spend time with my family which I usually didn’t have at this point in the season.

When you first heard about the Corona Virus did you ever think that it could have such an effect on the world?

When I started hearing more about it, I knew it was serious. I knew quickly that I didn’t want to be in Europe when the shut down came and be alone. I wanted to see which would be the safest and smartest thing to do and kept an eye on the situation. Then the season was canceled and I returned home.

How have you experienced the day to day life in Poland during the Corona Virus outbreak? Did you see that corona effect on the culture there or was it not so much different happening in your day to day dealings?

It was normal at the time and hadn’t become that bad yet. When the boarders were closed down and I had 48 hours to leave and the season was cancelled I saw to it that I would leave. 

Did you become more aware about how you handle yourself in public in terms of shaking hands and not being in the line of fire with somebody coughing

I’m lucky that I have never been in the line of fire when someone coughs. When I grew up I learned how to handle myself in those kind of situations.

Basketball leagues have shut down all over Europe. How disappointed were you about this and not being able to finish the season?

It was definitely very very disappointing. We had a great team with Anwil. We won both Cups and were in second place in the Polish league. We also played solid in the BCL. We had the chance to be the first Polish team to win all 3 national titles.

Before leagues were shut down there was a BCL game in Bonn against AEK Athens and a Fiba Europe Cup game in Bayreuth without spectators. What is your overall opinion of playing a game without fans?

I don’t really like it. You play for the love of the game, but you also need the fans there. We as players feed off the fans and they give you energy and help you get into the game. 

What have you learned about these tough times that has made you stronger as a person?

This whole crisis really hasn’t affected me in that regard. I had an upbringing that helped me become mentally strong. I was already away from home at a young age going to prep schools so I was far away from my family at a young age. I was used to isolation. 

Wil it be a big adjustment having to start 3 months earlier with workouts and basketball skill development? What will be the advantages and disadvantages of this?


It depends on the player. Some guys will take longer off before getting back into the gym. I haven’t been doing anything yet just resting and recovering from season. But I will get back into my routine and get into rhythm. There is nothing else like it.

The whole world economy is going to be affected including Polish basketball. How worried are you about the future of professional basketball. The next season will have many changes. How are you handling this mentally now not knowing what to expect?

There isn’t really anything you can do at the moment. I’m just waiting like everyone else. It will all be resolved at some time. Even if it means playing without fans for a while. I will weigh my options and continue to wait and see what happens.

How have you experienced the day to day life back home in the States? How has the Coronavirus affected your daily life? How have you been keeping in shape inside your home. Talk about the type of exercises and work out you have been able to perform inside your own 4 walls.

I haven’t started to work out yet. Like I said I’m just resting and spending a lot of time with my family laughing and joking.

If you had to name another player besides guys from Anwil that you have been in most contact via Social Media who would it be?

Just my normal friends. From Anwil keeping in touch with Tony Wroten.

You played your fourth season in Europe after playing your first 3 seasons in the NBA and G-League. How much is the NBA still on your mind and even if guys are returning back there still seems to be many many guys that don’t. Why does it still seem difficult for an NBA player after going to Europe for some reasons to go back? 

I don’t think that that is a correct statement. The NBA is always in the back of my mind. I know that I’m talented and know what I can do. I have always succeeded where ever I have played in my career. To play in the NBA, it’s all about being in the right situation at the right time. I believe you are seeing players at the moment getting a second chance more than ever now. The NBA takes the Euroleague very seriously.

The trend in the NBA now for years has been believing in the young guys. A Vince Carter type of player that is older is dying out. Why do you believe has the NBA gotten younger instead of trying to keep the flair of having those experienced guys stay?

The NBA is exciting and the league now is like back in the day when guys were coming out of high school. The talented young kids of today are doing stuff that the older guys can’t do. That is just how the NBA is now. You keep seeing less and less guys staying 4 years in school. 

Another season another country. You have played in various countries and this season it was with Anwil. What did you appreciate most about the Polish experience on and off the court?

The Anwil fans were the best and some of the best I ever played for. They were always at away games and it felt like home there. They had some real diehard fans and that helped me have one of my best seasons in my career. Off the court I appreciate most being able to gain relationships with my teammates 

How much of a pleasure was it being teammates with Tony Wroten. He said in my interview he had no problems talking about the NBA when he was in Poland. Did you guys exchange some stories of the NBA?

We were neighbors in Poland and we hung out every day. He is my guy. We talked a lot about the NBA and how we had transitioned to Europe and how trying to get back to the NBA. 

Last season you split time in Italy and China with Grissin Bon Reggio Emilia (Italy-Serie A) averaging 23.5ppg, 4.9rpg, 3.4apg, 2FGP: 47.0%, 3FGP: 31.6%, FT: 71.7%, left in Nov.’18, in Jan.’19 moved to Beijing Dragons (China-CBA) averaging: 32.5ppg, 9.6rpg, 5.3apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 77.5%. What kind of experience was China. What are the main differences between the NBA and CBA in terms of defensive effort?

They definitely play defense in China. If you want to play in China and be successful you have to be a scorer. What many might not know not everyone that goes to China succeeds. There have been high level NBA players that didn’t succeed in China. The difference in China is that your the man there. You are given a special confidence which you had in high school. They let you be the player you can be and you don’t have to worry about looking over your shoulder. You get the freedom. They play with a lot of effort in China and guys play their hearts out.

You were putting up amazing stats in Italy including a 41 points explosion against Cantu and then continued so in China. Was this some of the best basketball that you played in your professional career?

Yes last season was one of my best season’s scoring wise. I was in great shape and that had a lot to do with the weight training of the organization. I thank them for that. My being in great shape showed on the court.

In 2017-2018 you split time with Anadolu Efes Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) averaging 12.2ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 29.0%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 95.7%; and in the Euroleague averaged 8.6ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 33.8%, 3PT: 26.4%, FT: 61.1%, in Jan.’18 moved to Wisconsin Herd (NBA G League, starting five) averaging 15.4ppg, 6.5rpg, 2.7apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 45.6%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 96.4%. How beneficial was it playing Euroleague? What part of your game benefited the most there?

It was my second year in Europe and playing Euroleague really helped me learn the game better. The reason I left in mid season was because my dad passed away. He was my best friend. I wanted to be near my family. I loved the pace of the Euroleague and being able to learn different defenses and there were good players everywhere. 

You finished the season in the G-League with the Wisconsin Herd putting up respectable stats. Besides going there to be near family did you get some interest from teams and the tip to play in the G-league again or was that NBA dream itching harder again?


At that stage I didn’t think of the NBA. I mean I’m not about playing in the G-League for pennies. I am a grown man with a little daughter and have to do what is beneficial for my family. I have established myself in Europe and it isn’t bad. There are guys in Europe making more money than guys in the NBA

You have had many memorable games as a professional but was your 21 points in the 89-85 Euroleague victory against FC Barcelona one that you may always remember?

This was a tough time for me. My father had just passed away and I had been in a slump. I really needed that game to get over the hump. It was a road win and it was nice playing against my childhood friend Rakim Sanders.

Is Erik Mccullum one of those guys that could play in the NBA with his lethal scoring, but just gets lost in the prominent guard shuffle? 

So many guys can play play in the NBA. All it takes is having the right opportunity and having a coach that likes you and your all set. 

In 2016-2017 you played your first season overseas splitting time with Yesilgiresun Belediye (Turkey-BSL) leading he league in scoring 21.2ppg), 6.3rpg, 2.8apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 81.8%, then joined Baskonia Vitoria Gasteiz (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 9.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 65.4%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 88.9%. What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Europe where you knew that you were very far away from home?

The first couple of weeks were tough, but I was lucky and glad that having gone to prep school prepared me. I adjusted well off the court and did the same on the court. I proved that I could play in Europe because the domestic Turkish league is one of the best in Europe. 

You had some massive games in Turkey scoring 40 points or more twice. How quickly did you realize that your game can translate to anyplace?

I feel like my game translates to anyplace. I have the self confidence to be able to walk in anywhere and be the man. My self confidence gives me a boost showing I am the boss. 

In Spain with Baskonia you were teammates with Shane Larkin and Johannes Voigtmann. Who was the best point guard this season in Europe him or Mike James and do you feel like Voigtmann is an NBA player?

Shane is my guy We played together in the NBA with Dallas and New York. That is tough. Mike also had a great year. Shane and Efes were in a better position than Mike and CSKA. Plus Shane had two 40 point games. I would go with Shane. But Mike is also a dog. Both should be in the NBA. Joe is a beast. He has been one of the best versatile big men that I have played with. He made life easier for me on the court. He also was one of the best passing big men that I have played with. He is so versatile and could play in the NBA. More and more Europeans are coming back to Europe. I would like to get back to the NBA. You get treated so well there.

In your third professional season you played with the Reno Bighorns (D-League) averaging 21.1ppg, 6.1rpg, 2.8apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 46.1%, 3FGP: 40.2%, FT: 81.9%. Do you feel like you were close to an NBA call up and how disappointing was it not getting one?

I thought that I would get a NBA call up, but didn’t. I had many 30 point games. I was surprised that I didn’t get a call up. I talked a lot with my agent who was telling me what was going on. I shot over 40% from outside and was having a great season. Everything happens for a reason.

Please describe how the NBA will always be a business first before anything else? Do you remember experiencing players coming and going where the NBA organization had little concern for the feelings for the player?

Just look at Harrison Barnes. He got traded during a game. You see so many different situations in the NBA with many guys getting effected. Demarcus Cousins is the man and then he gets an injury and nobody wants him is another good example. Carmelo Anthony is another good example. He is back now with Portland and played well. Now everyone wants him again while before no one did. 

Between 2013-2015 you played a total of 28 NBA games,16 with the Dallas Mavericks and 12 with the New York Knicks. I have interviewed guys in the past that also had minimal NBA experience but in their youth didn’t necessarily do everything so they could have a better chance of staying in the NBA. When you look back at your time there, do you feel like you did everything in your power to remain or were you a bit naeve in certain things because of your youth?

I don’t think that I did everything in my power to stay. I had a lot of eagerness then to play. I hadn’t played in college and just wanted to play. In my first year with Dallas, I was working veryhard, but only playing sometimes. In my second year, I thought I was playing really well in practice and in the D-League. I was young and just didn’t understand the situation. I could of definitely done something different. I didn’t understand New York. I felt that I deserved more of a chance with them. I saw that the NBA was a business. In Dallas it was a win now situation. 

Please talk about your experiences with Dirk Nowitzki. What is a memory you have of him what really defined him as the player and person that he really was?

Dirk was so cool. He was a big goof ball, but so cool. He was a real hard worker and great person. 

You played together with 3 amazing players with Vince Carter, Shawn Marion and Monta Ellis. Please talk a bit about each guy and what it meant being able to soak up as much basketball information as possible?

All 3 led by example. Tyson Chandler was another guy who always came early while Dirk stayed late. I saw the type of work ethic that they had and tried to follow. Carter and Ellis gave me many words of wisdom. There were some real gems in there. Shawn was also a cool guy. 

You also played 12 NBA games with the New York Knicks. You scored a NBA career high 21 points in a loss to Washington. What do you remember most about this game?

That game proved to me that I could score at any level. I was in a groove at that time. I thought I was playing well at that point getting around 15 minutes something I didn’t get with Dallas. That game was life changing and a dream come true being able to play at Madison Square Garden

When you look back at your NBA career what did you appreciate most about it?

I lived out my dream playing in The NBA and It is still my dream to get back

How tough was it never playing in the NCAA with Providence? Do you sometimes wonder where your career may have gone had you played in the NCAA?

Yes I do wonder how my career may have gone differently. When my career is over I will explain this with a book or tell all film. I wish that I could of played in the NCAA. At that time though it was better to go and leave Providence. I did all I possibly could to play but got screwed. I wish that I could of played in front of family and friends. I believe that had I played in the NCAA I could have been an NBA lottery pick. 

Who was the toughest player you ever battled?

Monta Ellis. He was a tough player that was so quick and could shoot the ball.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past and present players?

Jordan, Kobe, Shaq, Lebron plus Iverson-Penny Hardaway

Where were you when you heard about the death of Kobe Bryant? How much of an effect did he have on your life growing up?

I was at home. I talked to my older brother on the phone and we were crying. Kobe was the reason why I started to play basketball. I remember being him on the court turning around shooting and yelling Kobe.

How bitter is it that the NCAA March Madness has been canceled? This tournament for some kids is the greatest time of their lives. What advice would you give that senior who worked hard for 4 years and would have had his one and only chance now?

That is so tough for those kids. They should really be credited for another season. Playing in the tournament means so much to the players. It is important for seniors making their first appearance and for guys that want to be drafted.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Money Heist

Thanks Ricky for the chat.

Jguwon Hogges is a 33 year old 173cm guard that completed his 6th professional season and sixth with SB DJK Rosenheim (Germany-Regionalliga). In his 6 seasons with SB DJK Rosenheim he never averaged less than 17,3ppg in a season. This past season he had one of his best statistical seasons playing 21 games averaging 22.7ppg, 8.1rpg, 4.4apg, 2.9spg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 72.1%. Before turning professional he played at Oregon Institute of Technology (NAIA). He spoke to germanhoops.com during the COVID-19 crisis. 

Hi Jguwon where are you at the moment and how is your current mood despite the world turmoil at the moment because of the out break of the Corona Virus?

I am currently in America with my family. I feel sorry for all the people who are affected by the Corona Virus. It has caused me to miss out on the game of basketball but this whole thing is bigger than basketball.

When you first heard about the Corona Virus did you ever think that it could have such an effect on the world?

I did not know to be honest. I just thought it was much like the Ebola outbreak where it may affect some people. I never thought it would get to the scale of affecting the whole world.

How did you experience the day to day life in Germany during the Corona Virus outbreak? Did you see that corona effect on the culture there or was it not so much different happening in your day to day dealings?

I was actually sent home right before the big shut down and the travel ban was enforced. If I would have stayed I would have been alone in my apartment. I am glad that I was able to come and be with my family this time. I am a very social person so for me to only see a certain amount of people has been hard. Plus I can’t go in the gym so I have been having to find creative ways to workout and interact with people. 

Did you become more aware about how you handle yourself in public in terms of shaking hands and not being in the line of fire with somebody coughing

I did, but I think that is common sense. No one wants to be sick.

Basketball leagues have shut down all over Europe. How disappointed were you about this and not being able to finish the season?

I was disappointed, I really wanted to finish out the league. Our team has a couple of games that we needed to win to stay in the league, and I was sad that we did not get to face that challenge.

Before leagues were shut down there was a BCL game in Bonn against AEK Athens and a Fiba Europe Cup game in Bayreuth without spectators. What is your overall opinion of playing a game without fans?


In this instance I thought that was very dangerous and reckless. I understand they wanted to protect the fans, but what about the players. Ultimately the players and coaches and organizations drive the league so why put them in danger.

What have you learned about these tough times that has made you stronger as a person?


I have learned that some things are just out of your control and you have to roll with what is given to you.

Will it be a big adjustment having to start 3 months earlier with workouts and basketball skill development? What will be the advantages and disadvantages of this?

I like to give myself some time off normally away from basketball. I play a lot of golf and work on some project cars in my down time. Then I let my body tell me when it is time to start gearing up for the next season. This longer preseason will help me work on injury prevention and get my body ready for another season. The only disadvantage is not knowing when the leagues will start back up.

The whole world economy is going to be affected including German basketball. How worried are you about the future of professional basketball. The next season will have many changes. How are you handling this mentally now not knowing what to expect?

I really think it is going to be a lot different in the game of basketball for a while. I think it is going to take some getting used to when we do start playing again. Much like when Magic Johnson returned after contracting HIV. Some people will be ok with playing while others will be scared to catch something. It is just hard not knowing what can and can’t happen. There is just a lot of uncertainties at this moment. 

How have you experienced the day to day life back home in the States? How has the Coronavirus affected your daily life? How have you been keeping in shape inside your home. Talk about the type of exercises and work out you have been able to perform inside your own 4 walls.

I have just been keeping myself busy with a couple project cars and playing my bass guitar. The first couple of weeks I was required to stay home since I had flown from Germany so I did not work out. Now that I can go outside I do some running and small circuit training in my front yard. Lots of plyos and strength workouts.

If you had to name another player besides guys from your team that you have been in most contact via Social Media who would it be?

Peter Breitfeld

Let’s talk about the season of Rosenheim who finished in 13th place with a record of 6-16. How would you summarize the team season?

It was not a successful season record wise. We were young and I think the guys learned a lot being in the position that we were in this year and that is what is most important. Being able to take what we learned this year and apply it in the future.

The club began the season losing 5 of 6 games, then won 4 games in a row and then lost 11 of 12 games. How frustrating is it knowing this and why couldn’t the team have more successful moments during the season?


That is how basketball is sometimes. Like I said we were young this year and some of the guys had not had a full year in the 1st Reg, so it takes time to adjust to certain things. Most of those games we were in and just had a few mistakes here and there. So I do not see it as being unsuccessful, I see it as learning for our team.

In the 4 game winning streak the club showed steel of nerves winning 3 tight games. What did you enjoy most about the winning streak?

It was good to see the younger guys win at the level and validate that they could play there.

The team averaged 74 points and gave up 81 points. I personally think you were missing a couple more scorers to help score more points. How do you see that?

I think that we just could have been a little stronger on defense collectively as a team. We missed some assignments at critical parts of close games and that was the difference.

What was the season highlight? Possibly the exciting 77-76 victory over Jena 2?


Yeah that was a great game. We played well and our young guys really were tough on the road. We grinded that one out till the end.

Let’s talk about your teammates. Talk a little about the Marz brothers Jonas and Bastian. They play with the FC Bayern Munich youth teams and have been taking the long ride from Rosenheim to Munich to play the game they love for years. How have you observed their development in the last years?

It has been a pleasure to see the way they have grown as players. I got to coach Basti in his youth and he and his brother play hard and are exceptional talents.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 173cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would have to say Earl Boykins.

You finished your 6th season with Rosenheim and the club has finished in 10, 13,9,11,12 and 13th place. Is this a great example of when a team and coach like Bob Miller takes care of you, you don’t need to leave. Why do you keep coming back besides the magnificent landscape with the Bavarian alps?


I was blessed to be able to come and play for Sportbund and stay for as long as I have. The whole club has been a joy to be a part of. The club has been gracious enough to continue to want me to come back. I keep coming back because I love the club and the team and I want to set an example for the younger generation.

You have been a top guard in the German Regionalliga for 6 years. You must have had some offers from higher leagues. Or do you feel like you have been severely overlooked over the years?


That is tough. I understand that I do not pass the eye test. Most of the time I am the smallest guy on the court in stature but I try my best to make up for that size disadvantage with heart. So it is tough for teams from higher leagues to judge in the un measurable parts of the game. I think they want measurables, so when teams compare me with a player who is 189 cm and can do some of the things I can I think it is easy for them to go another route.

You have averaged 7,0rpg or more 4 times and averaged 8,0rpg the last two season’s. If you want to be a good rebounder at 173cm does effort at times outweigh skill and height in being able to get the rebounds?

Attention to detail/ desire are things I focus on when rebounding. This year my coach was on me about boxing out and it helped keep us in games this year.

Your turning 34 in September. Do you feel like your already past your prime? On what things are you working most on your game at this stage of your career?

I do not think I am past my prime. My body feels strong and I am healthy. So I continue to work on ways to ensure I stay healthy. I continue to work on all facets of my game. I think that is a problem for players as they get older. They work on one aspect of their game so much that other parts begin to suffer.

You produced a triple double this season against Vilsbiburg. You’re a guy who has produced double figures in rebounds and assists each season. What do you feel has kept you from achieving more triple doubles?

I am honestly not a true point guard, but this year it was easier to find open shooters. I think not having multiple weapons spotting up has kept that from happening more.

I couldn’t find the stats of the 2015-2016 season, but in your other 5 seasons with Rosenheim you scored in double figures in 136 games out of 143 games. What was your most memorable game in the 6 years?

My most memorable had to be the first win of my first season in Rosenheim. It was against Oberhaching and I made two freethrows with no time on the clock to win the game. It was the teams first Reg 1 win since moving up. 

You played at a NAIA school before turning professional. Have you always had that chip on your shoulder especially after being D-2 champion in 2008? How can you feel content with your career without always having to deal with the mental side of where you are?

Not a chip on my shoulder. More of a desire to prove to the people who said ‘ he is to small to play at the next level’ wrong. I have been hearing that my whole life. So every day I step on a basketball court it just drives me to be better and play bigger than I look.

Who was the toughest guy that you faced in the Regionalliga this season?

That is a tough one, but I would have to say Nick Freer.

You played at Oregon Tech (NAIA) winning the D-2 title in 2008. What memories do you still have of those great times?

I will always remember the times at OIT. There are so many memories that come to mind but I remember the fans and how I was treated at OIT. It is why I love Rosenheim so much, it has the same family atmosphere that OIT had.

How much of a pleasure was it playing with legendary head coach Danny Miles who had a 1043-437 lifetime record. How did he groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

I learned so much from Coach Miles. Things that I do not think I would have learned anywhere else. I still talk to him from time to time about basketball. The most important thing coach Miles did for me was prepare me to be a great person outside of basketball. Do things with integrity and you will go far in life. I try to bring that everyday on the basketball court.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Trenton Newton-Jones?

Me, sorry T – Newt!

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

Demarcus Nelson – NBA
Scott O’Gallagher – NBA D league 

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Peter Breitfeld
Andy Siverly
Stephan Hlatky
Josh Wetzler
Ryan Lancaster

Please produce your own personal NBA Mount Rushmore with 4 heads past or present?

Michael Jordan/Kareem Abdul Jabbar/ Lebron James/ Kobe Bryant
Honorable Mention: Larry Bird / Shaq

What is your general opinion with the debate between who is greater Michael Jordan or Lebron James?


I am biased to this question. I had two cousins play for the Bulls with Michael Jordan (Craig Hodges/ Corey Williams) so you know how I am going to vote. But Lebron is great in his own right and it his time to carry the league. Good luck to whoever has to take up the mantle after Lebron is done because between him and Jordan I don’t know what else can be done.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Bad Boys 4 Life

Thanks Jguwon for the chat.

Vincent Garrett is a 29 year old 198cm forward that finished his 5th professional season and third with Science City Jena 2nd team (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 17 games averaging 20.5ppg, 9.6rpg, 3.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 26.3%, FT: 80.0%. He began his basketball career at John Marshall Metropolitan High Schoo and then played at Lee College (JUCO), Rutgers University and the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay (NCAA) where as a senior he played 24 games averaging 6.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 40.5%, 3PT: 50%, FT: 71.8%. He began his professional career in 2014-2015 with the Philadelphia Spirit (ABA). In 2015-2016 he went overseas and played with the Hannover Korbjaeger (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 26 games averaging 20.5ppg, 8.3rpg, 2.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 78.5%. In the 2016-2017 season he had his first tour of duty with Science City Jena 2nd team (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 23 games: Score-3 (23.0ppg), 10.4rpg, 2.3apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 67.7%. In the 2017-2018 season he played with Baerum Basket Bekkestua (Norway-BLNO) playing 17 games averaging 17.1ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 23.9%, FT: 81.3%. In the 2018-2019 season he split time with the Kordall Steelers (Luxembourg-Total League) playing 3 games averaging 20.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 2.7apg, 1.3spg, in Feb.’19 moved to Science City Jena 2nd team (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 9 games averaging 17.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 3.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 61.3%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 64.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the COVID-19 crisis. 

Hi Vincent where are you at the moment and how is your current mood despite the world turmoil at the moment because of the out break of the Corona Virus?


I’m currently in back in the states Arizona to be exact. My mood is always the same staying positive and staying safe.

When you first heard about the Corona Virus did you ever think that it could have such an effect on the world?


I honestly did not think it would have this much effect honestly no one could’ve predicted this or said this would happen.

How did you experience the day to day life in Germany during the early Corona Virus outbreak? Did you see that corona effect on the culture there or was it not so much different happening in your day to day dealings? 

There wasn’t much really happening around I mean the city closed down of course and my day to day dealings stayed the same nothing had really changed besides distancing myself from others for safety.

Did you become more aware about how you handle yourself in public in terms of shaking hands and not being in the line of fire with somebody coughing

I was already safe I always carried tissue and hand sanitizer with me at all times

What have you learned about these tough times that has made you stronger as a person? 


Being financially stable so that times like these will not affect you 

Will it be a big adjustment having to start 3 months earlier with workouts and basketball skill development? What will be the advantages and disadvantages of this? 

No because I’m always working no matter the situation. Just because the season ends do not mean it’s over for me I have to continue to stay in the gym as much as possible. 

The whole world economy is going to be affected including Polish basketball. How worried are you about the future of professional basketball. The next season will have many changes. How are you handling this mentally now not knowing what to expect?

I’m not worried about it I’m willing to work and play regardless of the situation. Things will only get better and we have to see the positive in this.

How have you experienced the day to day life back home ? How has the Coronavirus affected your daily life? How have you been keeping in shape inside your home. Talk about the type of exercises and work out you have been able to perform inside your own 4 walls.


Well I just recently left Germany on the 28 of April. Since I beenhome things are slowly opening. And I still have access to the gym because it’s in our home. 

If you had to name another player besides guys from your team that you have been in most contact via Social Media who would it be?

Samuel Mpacko 

Let’s talk about your third season with Science City Jena 2. The club finished the season with a 12-5 record in 5th place. How would you summarize the season from a team stand point? 

We could had a better season but we were hit with a lot of injuries early and lost a lot of key players 

The club began well getting out winning 4 of 6 games, but then had a tough stretch losing 5 games in a row. What was the cause for the team getting away from it’s winning ways? 

We had a lot of injuries early and we never really had a full roster due to players playing on the first team 

From December until Corona broke out, the club finished strong with a 8-3 record. The team won some tough games against Schwabing and Bamberg. How do you feel did the team grow in this period? 

We were back healthy and it was a chance to still win the league. We had a good rhythm and we believed when fully healthy no team was better then us 

Let’s talk about your teammates. How much of a pleasure was it playing with young Serbian Vuk Radojicic? How talented is he exactly?

He played for 3 Jena team’s so wasn’t always available for the Regionalliga team He is the true meaning of heart over height. He plays fearless and that’s something you have to love. He was mainly used of the first team roster. 

How skilled are the young Linartos twins Bartautas and Adomas? Both are guards and continue to make strides in their development. What did you learn to appreciate most from their games?

The sky is the limit for the twins. It’s been situation where they helped me more then I helped them with how they see the game. What I appreciate most about them is I never had to ask them to play hard it’s already installed in them. 

The team had so many talented young Germans no one older than 21. Which German player do you feel made the most improvement during the season?

Lorenz Bank most definitely the most improved. His game did a complete 360 jump from last season. He was a key reason to why we won most of our games.

Let’s talk about your game. You averaged 20.5ppg, 9.6rpg, 3.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 26.3%, FT: 80.0%. How content were you with your season? 

Missed 7-8 games due to injury in the beginning of the season. But I gave everything I had once fully healthy. We would have probably been higher if the team was healthy the whole season 

You were the oldest on the squad at 29 and the second oldest was Julius Foerster at age 21. Did you sometimes feel old being around only kids on a daily basis? Did you play that mentor role every day in practice? 

I didn’t feel old. I felt like I had a purpose it’s was up to me to help get them get better everyday and they helped me just as much. Iron sharpens iron 

You’re a player that has filled the stat sheet at the professional level. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I would say DeMar DeRozan 

You shot 40% last season with Jena 2, but this season was at 26%. In what area of your preparation lies the biggest problem in terms of getting a more consistent three pointer? 

Coming back from injury, it was hard to catch my rhythm with not playing so I much. There is nothing a gym can’t fix. It was more of a rhythm for me 

How much of a role model has NBA player Alfonzo Mckinnie been for you during the years? You played with him in high school and at the University of Wisconsin/Green Bay. He has that special Cinderella way to the NBA that few players ever achieve. Do you strive to develop a special chip on your shoulder the way he has or is yours special as well? 

We talk everyday along with another friend Keifer Sykes. We find ways to motivate each daily even when we are in the gym together. My journey just happens to be different but with them on my side I know it will happen for me I just have to keep pushing. 

Do you have a special story with him in school that you will never forget? The one that shows just what kind of a competitor and person he really is regarding the daily grind the never ending will to be successful? 

There no special story really when you saw what high school we went to and the area we grew up in Chicago you would understand why we play the way we play. 

You have played 5 professional seasons and are 29 years old. You are a versatile player that can fill the stat sheet with ease. In what area’s of your game are you working the most on to keep improving as a player? 


Seeing the entire floor. Allowing the game to come to me. 

What is the next step for you? You have played in Germany for 4 of your 5 professional seasons. Would you like to remain in Germany or could you see yourself going to another country? 

I’m honestly ready to go wherever the chance is given. I’m ready to get back to playing 

You began your career at Lee College (JUCO).You averaged 16.0 ppg, 6.0 rg and 2.0 apg. How important was this season in your early basketball development as a player?

That season was really just important due to it being my sophomore season. So I put everything into that season and the work showed 

You then spent a season at Rutgers University (NCAA) playing 12 games averaging 1.5ppg. It was your first season in the NCAA which is a huge difference from JUCO. Was the adjustment period tough coming from JUCO? Talk a bit about this season and what benefits your game got from this season?

It wasn’t a tough difference. It was a big difference going from a small juco to a university. 

You got into some blow out loses against top schools Syracuse and Louisville where you faced off against some top players that would reach the NBA. Are these games that you can still pin point certain plays or has there been too much time gone by? 

To much time has passed 

You then finished at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay (NCAA) playing 24 games averaging 6.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 40.5%, 3PT: 50%, FT: 71.8%. What memories do you have from your senior season? How did your game improve playing with great talent like Mckinnie, Keifer Sykes, Alec Brown and Carrington Love on a daily basis? 

Anytime I play with Alfonzo or Keifer I already know I’m going to be pushed to get the best. Playing with those guys made the game a lot easier for me. 

What was your fondest memory on the court? 

Making the conference tournament my sophomore season at lee college. 

How did head coach Brian Wardle groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

He just told me he wished he could of coached me all four years 

Who won a one on one over the years you or Alfonzo Mckinnie?

I’ve easily beaten him more times than he beat me 

You began your career with the Philadelphia Spirit (ABA). How tough was this season and why do you feel did it take longer to get overseas? 

You don’t see to many guys have a senior year like me and make it overseas. So I had to take another route and show I could actually play when given the right chance 

You began your career overseas with the Hannover Korbjaeger (Germany-Regionalliga) in 2015-2016 playing 26 games averaging 20.5ppg, 8.3rpg, 2.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 78.5%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I was actually working at Best Buy on lunch break when I finally got the call so I had to put my two weeks in a go I couldn’t look back 

How important was your first season with Hannover for getting used to the European style? How key was it having 7 other nationalities on the club like point guard Gael Hulsen?


It was easy for me seeing how the team was well rounded. It was special because each guy brought something different to the game

In your second professional season you joined Science City Jena 2nd team (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 23 games: Score-3 (23.0ppg), 10.4rpg, 2.3apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 67.7%. You had a fantastic season. Is this still your best season as a professional? 

My best season will end with me winning the league wherever I am playing so the best has yet to be seen

You finished the season with 4 30 plus point games in your last 6 games. You have been a monster at the Regionalliga level in Germany. Do you feel like you have been overlooked by higher level teams in Germany or are there just too many talented plyers around and too little jobs? 

I know I get overlooked. I get asked all the time why haven’t I been called up. I’ll be ready for whatever chance is given. All I can do is play it’s up to them to give me the chance and I have been ready and waiting 

In 2017-2018 you sampled a anew experience in Norway with the Baerum Basket Bekkestua (Norway-BLNO, starting five) averaging 17.1ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 23.9%, FT: 81.3%. What memories do you have from the play on the court and what did you enjoy about the culture there? 

Missing the finals by one game. And missing one key player due to injury but we still fought for that game. 

Two seasons ago you split time with the Kordall Steelers (Luxembourg-Total League) averaging 20.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 2.7apg, 1.3spg, in Feb.’19 returned to Science City Jena 2nd team (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 17.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 3.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 61.3%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 64.5%. Did you realize after this season that Jena was like aa second home to you?


I’m actually in the process of moving to Germany full time. Jena will always be my home 

Who was the toughest player you faced in the NCAA from an opposing team that made it to the NBA?

Montrez Harrell. He dunked everything during his time at Louisville 

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?


Keifer Sykes Alfonzo Mckinnie Levon Carter Samuel Mpacko Moritz Schneider 

Please produce your own personal NBA Mount Rushmore with 4 heads past or present? 

Michael Jordan Lebron James Kobe Bryant Tim Duncan 

What is your general opinion with the debate between who is greater Michael Jordan or Lebron James? 

They are two different players they can’t be compared. Their game is not similar at all.

What was the last movie that you saw?

A kid from Coney Island

Thanks Vincent for the chat.

Yasin Kolo is a 28 year old 208cm center that is completed his fourth professional season and first with the wiha Panthers Villingen-Schwenningen (ProA) playing 15 games averaging 8.7ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 81.0%. Last season he played with the Rhein Stars Koeln (ProB) playing 11 games averaging 16.8ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 74.3%. AS a rookie he played 17 BBL games with Tuebingen and also boats professional experience with Ehingen and the Artland Dragons. He began his basketball career with ASC 46 Goettingen (2.Regionalliga) and then spent six years in the States getting valuable experience with the Fayetteville Christian School and palyed 15 NCAA games in total with East Carolina and Hartford. He finished his college career with Bellarmine (NCAA2) playing 29 games averaging11.0ppg, 5.8rpg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 46.6%, FT: 66.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the COVID-19 crisis.

Hi Yasin where are you at the moment and how is your current mood despite the world turmoil at the moment because of the out break of the Corona Virus?


I am in Niedersachsen with my family at the moment. Of course it’s a frustrating situation for all the people that have to go through the changes and new rules we all have to obey to stay safe.

When you first heard about the Corona Virus did you ever think that it could have such an effect on the world?

I respected it but never thought that it would have such an effect worldwide. The Corona Virus is definitely something that we should take seriously. Especially to protect our older family members. 

How have you experienced the day to day life in Schwenningen during the Corona Virus outbreak? Did you see that corona effect on the culture there or was it not so much different happening in your day to day dealings?

Shops and restaurants started to close. Hand sanitizer was hard to get, and shelves with pasta or toilet paper were empty. Luckily, there was basketball still during that time to kind of get away from this worldwide problem. 

Did you become more aware about how you handle yourself in public in terms of shaking hands and not being in the line of fire with somebody coughing

Yes, for sure. I started to wash my hands more often and longer than I used to. I kept distance between me and other people and made sure to not shake hands. I was also making sure that I am not close to huge crowds of people. 

Basketball leagues have shut down all over Europe including the Pro A. How disappointed were you about this and not being able to finish the season?

Of course it was tough to stop playing. The team had a great run and we were still having a chance to make the playoffs. But everything happens for a reason and it was the right choice to stop the leagues from playing. At this point, the health of the people is more of a priority than basketball. 

Before leagues were shut down there was a BCL game in Bonn against AEK Athens and a Fiba Europe Cup game in Bayreuth without spectators. What is your overall opinion of playing a game without fans?

Well, it limits the chances of people being infected by Covid-19 which is a good thing. Of course it is not the same for players to not have fans at the games. But again, it is more important to keep people safe since it could spread even more with fans sitting close to each other. 

What have you learned about these tough times that has made you stronger as a person?

I learned that your health should always be the highest priority and that it is important to keep others safe as well. During times like these it is important for people to really do what they are supposed to do and obey rules for the greater good. 

Wil it be a big adjustment having to start 3 months earlier with workouts and basketball skill development? What will be the advantages and disadvantages of this?


Well, it just gives you more time to get your body right and prepared skill wise for the next season. If you had some nagging injuries, time is your best friend because you can find ways to make sure to work on those problems. Covid 19 makes it a little difficult because there are still rules that are present where you have to improvise your workouts. Some gyms are closed, so you have to work out on a basketball court in the park or wherever you can find one. However, you learn to find many different ways and tools to get better which is great. 

The whole world economy is going to be affected including German basketball. How worried are you about the future of professional basketball. The next season will have many changes. How are you handling this mentally now not knowing what to expect?

German basketball is definitely going to be affected like many other countries in Europe. But those are things that I can’t control. I think that good things come to those who work hard and stay patient. Therefore, I am just focusing on what I can control and the rest is going to run its course. 

If you had to name another player besides guys from the Panthers that you have been in most contact via Social Media who would it be?

I am talking to a lot of guys here and there to catch up and talk about this offseason and next season. The basketball world is small so you really interact with a lot of different players, especially during the offseason. Hard to pick out specific one. 

Congrats on a fine season in the Pro A. For most the wiha Panthers Schwenningen were able to exceed expectations of reaching the playoffs except for maybe head coach Alen Velcic who always saw you guys as a playoff team. Did you share his optimism when the team was struggling in November?

I think that the team had a lot of talent. I think we all knew that the stretch where we lost a lot of games was just because we weren’t on the same page mentally. But as we figured it out we started winning. I definitely think that we could have been even better with the talent there was. 

Sometimes it is that one player that can change a whole season. When David Dennis left and Drew Brandon came on board you started to win as he led the team to a 10-3 record. How much credit does he deserve for the success of the team?


Drew Brandon definitely deserves credit. He came in and fit in pretty well and did his thing. He is a great player and knows how to be effective. 

Obviously Drew Brandon is a very good point guard, but what else changed when he came and the team started to play a lot better?

I guess that it was kind of a step in another direction. Obviously changes were made and we had to go from there. David and Drew are great players, but both are two different kind of point guards. Drew openend up the paint more offensively so that other players had more chances to be creative. And on the defensive end, he played hard and gave a different impulse as well. 

How much did it hurt that the season ended and you never got to see how far the team would get? Is this something that will affect you in the next months just never knowing what would have happened?


I try to stay away from thoughts like ‘What could’ve been?’ I just try to focus on what is ahead and learn from things I could have done better. Last season should be motivation enough to get even better and work harder when we are finally allowed to play again. 

The club won 6 of their last 7 games. Had the team reached it’s peak in the season or did you still see enough energy with the team to make a run in the playoffs?

I think we definitely reached our peak. There’s no way of telling if we would have made the playoffs. But I am sure that we were talented enough to make a run in the playoffs. 

Let’s talk about your teammates. How much of a pleasure was it being teammates with Jaren Lewis. Did you see early on in the season that he would be able to keep his consistency until the end?

Jaren Lewis is a great player and did a lot of good things during the season. He improved a lot during the year and got better and better every game. Especially towards the end of the year he truly showed his potential and couldn’t be stopped. He is also a great teammate that is fun to play with. Off the court he is a great person and friend. It was a pleasure teaming up with him. My guy for life. 

What was it like having Marco Bacak as your big man teammate. How did you guys compliment each other best and what did you appreciate most about his game?

Marco is a great player. We complement each other very well. Our high low actions in some games were hard to guard for other teams. He is a good passer for a big man and very unselfish. Marko is also a smart player and great team player. A lot of things to appreciate him for. 

How proud are you of teammate Leon Friedrici who was named most improved player by eurobasket.com. In what part of his game did he improve the most?

He definitely deserved this award. Hardly ever met a guy that worked so hard to get better. I think his confidence improved the most, the reason why he started to take off. Very proud of him and the award was well deserved. 

Let’s talk about your game. You played 15 games averaging 8.7ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 81.0%. How content were you with your personal season despite also being injured?


After a long time being hurt I was just thankful to be able to play again. I knew, that it would take me some time to get back to 100%. 

It was your second Pro A season after playing with Ehingen back in 2017-2018. You have had the misfortune to be plagued by injuries the last years. How tough has this been for you and the further development of your game?


Injuries are part of the game. It’s not fun. But after a while you learn to take better care of your body even more and to prevent injuries. I definitely lost some time playing the game, but I always take the positive out of everything. And I learned a lot about myself during the time I was hurt. 

Do you sometimes wonder where you might be today as a player in your development had you been more healthy?


Of course. But like I said, I try to focus on what’s ahead. 

You stated this season you wanted to improve on your lateral quickness as well as explosiveness. That was a big goal of mine to improve in those areas, especially after my injury. Were you able to do that this season?

Since my last surgery was a month before preseason started, I had to learn how to do the basic things again. I am proud of how fast I recovered but now is the time for me to really focus on improving my weaknesses. My goal then changed from improving these things to how I can play basketball and be the best teammate possible after being away from the game for that long. 

You finished the season strong on the court. On what things will you be focusing on this summer so you can continue to improve and grow as a player?


So far I lost 26 pounds (12kg) since the season got shut down and I feel much better. I had two surgeries last summer and didn’t really have an offseason, so this time gives me even more time to prepare and catch up on what I missed. 

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


There were a lot of good players this season. But I think that Kendale McCullum from Paderborn gave us the most problems. 

Luka Doncic had an amazing sophomore campaign. Is he a top 3 NBA player now?

That is a tough call. Luka is amazing. Maybe not right now, but soon. 

Where were you when you heard about the death of Kobe Bryant. What kind of influence did he have on you during adolescence? 


(I was 4 when he began in the NBA) I was at a Spa with my teammate Jaren Lewis for our recovery day when he told me the news afterwards. At first I thought it was a bad joke. He was a reason why I even started to play basketball. Kobe was the closest thing to Michael Jordan that ever stepped on a court and I loved watching him play. One of my favorite players of all time. Him and his daughters death shook up the whole world and he will never be forgotten. Motivates me to go even harder now. 

How bitter was it that the NCAA March Madness has been canceled? This tournament for some kids is the greatest time of their lives. What advice would you give that senior who worked hard for 4 years and would have had his one and only chance now?

It is very heartbreaking for the players and fans. Many people live for college sports, especially march madness. I know a few guys that missed that opportunity to play during March Madness and I am very sorry for them. It’s hard to find words to make them feel better because that is what many guys worked so hard for. 

What was the last movie that you saw?

Wonder

Thanks Yasin for the chat.

It was October 29^th  2020 when I ventured to Bonn to watch a mid-week Basketball Champions League game between the Telekom Baskets and top Turkish club Besiktas Istanbul. In all my years of covering basketball, I have come upon many players and Jordan Theodore who I covered extensively one season when he played for the Fraport Skyliners belongs in my top 5 players that I have covered in my career. It was a no brainer that I would venture to see my guy Jordan play again after not having seen him in 3 years. The Besiktas squad had a very talented roster with up and coming German guard Ismet Akpinar , but also had 2 other very top notch Americans with 2 time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors James McAdoo JR the son of ex NBA scoring freak James McAdoo and Shaquille Mckissic who made the jump to Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus (Greece-Euroleague) and has a huge career ahead of him. On any night, you won´t find a better trio of American players on one team with Theodore, McAdoo and Mckissic in the Basketball Champions League. But wait there was a fourth American on the squad with Todderick Gotcher and I actually had a connection to him and also wanted to see him play and meet him. He had hit me up early in 2019 lauding my work which was nice being he had never played in Germany but still read my work and had been playing in France and I decided  to give him an interview.  He is a player that tailors his game after an Eric Gordon and Bradley Beal and just plays his role not thinking about putting up the eye opening stats. On this cool rainy evening in Bonn, the American from Garland, Texas didn´t catch his best night playing 16 minutes and scoring 0 points. Playing on a team with so many scoring options, he didn´t necessarily have to score 20 every night, but as always focused on trying to be the smartest on the court offensively and defensively. At the end of the night, Besiktas Istanbul suffered a tough 86-82 loss. That was only the beginning of more hardships to come for the Turkish squad. Not too long after, Todderick Gotcher all of a sudden was the lone American on the team and had to take on bigger roles to help the team. “It was not too tough on me personally. In college, I played for 4 different head coaches and changes so I am used to adapting to whatever situation I am in. I just tried to make the best of the situation by doing my job the right way and keeping a positive mindset. It was tough to see my teammates leaving. I have built great relationships with each of them. We continue to keep in touch but each of them went to great situations for them and their families. But I just continued to put the work in on my end. Shaq McKissic & Jordan Theodore were the ones that got me prepared everyday. Battling them in practice everyday elevated my game.”, stressed Toddrick Gotcher. The team was up and down in his lone time there, but then as quickly as all his American teammates left, came COVID-19 and his season abruptly ended.

                When COVID-19 struck like a fierce hurricane in March 2020, Toddrick Gotcher was still in Turkey. When he first heard about it, he wasn´t too concerned, because his wife who is a nurse kept him updated about what was happening in the medical world. But he did utter a phrase that just about every player I interviewed in the last 6 months said to me. “I must admit, I did not expect it to shut down the entire world”, stressed Toddrick Gotcher. He didn´t go home right away, but had the experience to see how the Turkish culture was responding to COVID-19. His time in Turkey during COVID-19 was a time where he could actually get a gripe on other things in life and be a very special role model to his 1 year daughter concerning how to handle one´s self. “In Istanbul, I stayed at home and read many books during this time. It was helpful because I had the time to catch up on things unrelated to basketball. The Turkish culture was not too bad, people stayed home. I was more aware of how I handled myself. The main reason is because I have a 1 year old daughter so I was more worried about her more than anything”, stated Toddrick Gotcher. The first few months in 2020 were tough for all basketball players and it wasn´t any different for Toddrick Gotcher. A benefit from the ending of the season was focusing more on family, but it also had other disadvantages like playing the last few games without fans and not to mention having to take a long time to digest the meaningless tragedy that the basketball world suffered with the death of Kobe Bryant which set off 2020 on a very low note. “We as players, were all disappointed and wanted to finish the season. This is what we go overseas to do and it is something we love to do. It was disappointing, but we could use this for good and spend quality time with family for the time being. I think it is tough for us to play without fans. Obviously, we do not mind it, but it is tough and Lebron James said in the media “What is sport without fans. When I heard about Kobes death, I was in a restaurant. I got at least 5 calls about it and I was in disbelief. He definitely had a huge impact on my life. Everytime I shoot a piece of trash to the garbage, I still scream Kobe”, commented Toddrick Gotcher.

            It was a very long extended summer for all involved in basketball. When had a Toddrick Gotcher ever been on summer vacation in early March as a professional player? As a professional your usually off in May and if you make the playoffs don´t return home to weeks or a month later. The American returned back to the Dallas-Fort Worth area and like in Istanbul was around many many other people. At least he was back home with his loved ones, but the mood was very tense as the United States were going through hard times with COVID-19. “I believe there is fear everywhere. Obviously in the bigger cities due to more people being receptive to the virus. But I would think it is equal with everyone’s mood and everyone being more aware”, warned Toddrick Gotcher. Having extended family time was a huge plus for all overseas basketball players, but they also had to contend with something totally new. Often players return home, do nothing for 2 weeks, then go on a vacation and start training in June while their agents look for teams. But now players could start training in April, but also had the disadvantage of finding a place to train as gyms were closed. Just as creative he is on the court, he had to be even more creative where he could work on his craft. “  It will be a huge adjustment for us all. It will be pretty weird to start workouts earlier knowing we will not have to be in game shape for a while The advantages of this is allowing our body to recover, but the disadvantage is too much time off”, warned Toddrick Gotcher back in March 2020. COVID-19 was an eyeopener for all and it was something that made many stronger as well as the American. “During this tough time, I have learned to just appreciate everything in life. Take some positive out of every negative. Use this time to our advantage with our families”, expressed Toddrick Gotcher.

            When COVID-19 hit back in March 2020, the American who played 135 NCAA games at Texas Tech had more time to reflect on his season with Besiktas Istanbul. Despite losing high class Americans, the club got the last playoff spot despite having a 11-12 record. It wasn´t an easy season for the club in the last few months, but he took on the challenge. “There were many ups and downs this season but we had a next man up mentally. Everyone stepped up when we needed them. It was good to see how resilient we were as a team”, added Toddrick Gotcher. Not only did the American learn to deal with a new challenge of being the lone American at the end, but didn´t have a Theodore or McAdoo to get a Mcdonalds midnight snack, but had to form new kind of relationships with his Turkish teammates. “I spent great quality time with my Turkish teammates. They are great guys and showed me the Turkish way, so I have give them appreciation for everything. We all have great relationships as well”, stressed Toddrick Gotcher.

            The American got a bit lost with his game with the American trio of Theodore, McAdoo and Mckissic, but here and there he did break through and have some strong games like his 22 points in a huge crushing of Italian team Brindisi in the Basketball Champions League. In the end, he held his own averaging 9,9ppg, 4,7rpg 2,3apg and 1,5spg while shooting 33% from outside in the BSL league and in the BCL averaged 10,8ppg, 3,5rpg and 1,6spg while shooting 41% from outside. and didn´t need his American teammates, because he did just fine with his Turkish teammates. “I honestly started off the season really slow. I was not playing the way I needed to and was not getting the job done. But as the season progressed, I got better and better. I still have a lot to improve on with my game, but I think I can bring more to the game”, warned Toddrick Gotcher. It was obvious that as the Americans left, his minutes increased and his role changed as well. “My role changed a lot. At first, my job was to only shoot 3s to space the floor and defend. But as my teammates were leaving, I had to take on bigger roles, whether it be playing with the ball in my hands or rebounding doing whatever I can to help the team win”, added Toddrick Gotcher. He came to Turkey in the summer already as a versatile player, but as the season progressed, he had many more duties and became even more versatile. “I actually did score more as the season progressed due to my bigger role. My main focus was just doing whatever I can for the team to win. I appreciate the trust of my coach and teammates for allowing me to be myself”, said Toddrick Gotcher. He finished the season strong scoring in double figures in his last 5 games in the Turkish league and had two double doubles and had stats leading toward a triple double and took new steps in his 4^th professional season after playing 2 seasons Greece averaging double figures in scoring in the A-1 league and playing in France. “The new step I took was playing the point guard. I enjoyed having the ball in my hands and setting my teammates up to score. I believe that I improved my game and improved my ball handling to get my teammates involved”, stated Toddrick Gotcher. He definitely will never forget Istanbul, but it´s time to move on as basketball player lives like a nomad. “Istanbul, Turkey is one of the best places I have ever lived. It is safe and beautiful with great people. Great environment to live in. One of the top places to stay in my opinion for basketball players”, stressed Toddrick Gotcher. The American will commence his fifth professional season with KK MZT Skopje Aerodrom (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) and continue to look to develop further as a player as well as helping his team be as successful as possible. He also will have a parallel to the second half of the Besiktas season in that he won´t be the lone American, but have one teammate with Hassani Gravett and have many North Macedonian teammates but also a Serb teammate. Learning to play only with Turkish players helped strengthen his game last season and this season he will have the opportunity to continue to develop and get by with mostly North Macedonian players. He may not find a Mcdonalds in Skpje because it was banned, but at least he will still have Burger King and not have to go alone, but have a good conversation in English with lone American Hassani Gravett and for a little period feel like he could be back home in America.

Kerry Carter is a 28 year old 188cm guard from West Covina, California that last played in the 2017-2018 season with Generazione Vincente Cuore Napoli (Italy-Serie A2) playing 12 games averaging 20.2ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 44.6%, 3FGP: 37.6%, FT: 76.0%, in Jan.’18 moved to Hapoel Haifa (Israel-National League) playing 10 games averaging 19.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.3apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 74.3%. In 2016-2017 he played with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen (Germany-ProB) playing 24 games: Score-1 (24.8ppg), 4.0rpg, 5.2apg, Steals-2 (2.9spg), FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 84.2%. He racked up Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Player of the Year -17, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Guard of the Year -17, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro B 1st Team -17, Eurobasket.com German 2.Bundesliga Pro B All-Imports Team -17, and Eurobasket.com German 2.Bundesliga Pro B All-Defensive Team -17. As a rookie he played for Iberostar Tenerife CB Canarias (Spain-Liga Endesa) playing 5 games: 3.2ppg. He started his basketball career with Citrus College and then moved to St.Mary’s, CA (NCAA) where he played 63 NCAA games and as senior played 31 games averaging 12.1ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg. He spoke to germanhoops.com during COVID-19 in 2020.

Hi Kerry Our last interview was from September 2017 as you had arrived in Italy. How fast has time flown by and what have you missed most about basketball?

Miles, thanks for having me. Seems like the days are long but the weeks fly by. In regards to basketball I miss competing more than anything. There’s nothing like going to battle every night and putting your preparation to the test. That and some of the lifelong relationships you make through the game. 

where are you at the moment and how is your current mood despite the world turmoil at the moment because of the out break of the Corona Virus?


I’m home in California. Since the beginning of the pandemic my mindset has been to win the wait. A mentor of mine told me that there are winners and losers whenever there are interruptions like this. So, I’ve made it a point to ensure that I come out of it all as one of the winners. 

When you first heard about the Corona Virus did you ever think that it could have such an effect on the world?

This has been kind of a black swan event for me. I have never seen anything like this so I didn’t really know what to expect. I see now why people who have lived through serious historic events like the Great Depression take such precautious measures now. When you’ve never seen anything like it though, you don’t understand the fragility of it all and how quickly normalcy can be taken away. 

How Have you experienced the day to day life in West Covina? How has the general public there accepted the Coronavirus?


Daily life back home is different. You see a general feeling of fear with all of this because people don’t really understand it. The energy is different. 

Did you become more aware about how you handle yourself in public in terms of shaking hands and not being in the line of fire with somebody coughing

I’ve always been a bit of a germophobe with that stuff, staying clear of people who appear sick and I don’t really like to dap up unless I really know somebody. This stuff has only reaffirmed that for me. 

Basketball leagues have shut down all over Europe. Have you had any contact to ex teammates and friends that have been overseas?

Definitely. LA is one of the hubs for basketball talent so I have talked to a lot of guys that are back home due to having seasons cut short and some that live in other areas as well. There’s generally a lot of mixed feelings about how all this has unfolded. 

Before leagues were shut down there was a BCL game in Bonn against AEK Athens and a Fiba Europe Cup game in Bayreuth without spectators. What is your overall opinion of playing a game without fans?

I know guys have expressed different opinions but for me, I’m a true competitor through and through. I don’t care who’s in the building I’m trying to win. So as much as the fans contribute to the atmosphere, I think guys just have to get back to the root of it all and remember why they do it. It’s a blessing to play the game, no matter who’s watching, especially when you get paid to do it.

What have you learned about these tough times that has made you stronger as a person?

I’ve had to switch gears from being a player. I stay in shape and in the back of my mind there was always a belief that I would go back and play. But these times have shown me that it’s bigger than hoops. I can take that passion I have for the game and apply it to anything and be successful. Ultimately, I learned the importance of knowing my WHY and making sure every decision I make aligns with a clear set of core values. 

You have been recovering from injury. Have you been able to keep in shape at home? What kind of exercises have you been able to do and do you have a specific routine?

Absolutely. I have a ton of equipment at home so this time has been extremely productive for me from a physical standpoint. From resistance bands to Viprs to kettlebells. I’ve been able to really get after it now that there’s a little more downtime. 

The whole world economy is going to be affected including Italian basketball. How worried are you about the future of professional basketball. The next season will have many changes. How are you handling this mentally now not knowing what to expect?


I think there will be a huge discrepancy between price and value for a lot of players. As the global economy tanks, so do team’s resources so it will be interesting to see which teams manage financial hardship best. This is going to be a make or break deal for a lot of organizations that can’t afford to have many mistakes. 

How has your approach to family changed since the outbreak of Corona? What things have you seen yourself do that you may not have done before?


Being that I didn’t play this year, my time was dominated by work schedule. I found time to get my workouts in and I am almost done with my master’s degree but there wasn’t time for much else. The family aspect has benefitted the most from all of this. The amount of time I’ve been able to spend working on my relationship and being there for my queen has been a blessing. 

You missed the last 2 seasons due to injury. How tough have this time been for you? Has there been a specific person that has been the biggest help besides family?

When I had my surgery, it was a revelation for me to just how special my girl really is. Anybody who’s been through a knee surgery knows how vulnerable you are during the recovery process. I couldn’t even put my socks on by myself and to just make myself something to eat required an effort that would put me in a full sweat. On top of that you’re not able to workout like you used to or do some of the things that brought you peace to begin with. She held it down for me and did all of the little things to make me feel comfortable on top of being my emotional support. 

Talk a little about the injury you had and how your rehabilitation period went? Are you 100% again and ready to go again with basketball?

My injury was a combination of things. I initially had a strained ACL and that’s when it started giving me problems. From there I learned that I had basically destroyed the cartilage in my knee and had to get it replaced. The rehabilitation period was great and I’m now almost 15 months post op so I’m back to 100%.

What did you learn about yourself in the last two years that allowed you to get through this tough period?

That’s a loaded question. Some things I learned and some things were reaffirmed. One of the things I learned is that I’m not built to be a worker, I’m built to champion a cause. Whatever I’m doing has to be a direct reflection of my purpose or I’m not going to reach my potential. 

You haven’t played in two seasons. Are you a bit nervous what will await this summer with the Coronavirus effect and you long absence of how teams will pursue you?

Not at all. What’s for me won’t miss me. What misses me isn’t for me. I firmly believe it will all work out as it’s meant to. 

After missing two full seasons, how will you start training on the court again to get back to the type of player you once was?

First thing I had to do was get my body ready for the impact of the game. I had to get back into physical shape. I was coaching and jumping in on scout so I got a ton of live reps this year against some young guys who are hungry to prove themselves. From there it was just about getting my rhythm and my feel for the game back. 

You had an amazing season in Germany and made the next step in Italy and Israel. How intense are your own mind games concerning how well you will find back to your game?

Being away from the game made me appreciate the present moment. I’m not stressing over things I can’t control and there’s even less reason to stress if I can control it. I’ve been able to explore meditation and mental stimulation in a lot of ways that calms the mind so that hasn’t been an issue for me. 

In your last season you split time with Generazione Vincente Cuore Napoli (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 20.2ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 44.6%, 3FGP: 37.6%, FT: 76.0%, in Jan.’18 moved to Hapoel Haifa (Israel-National League) averaging 19.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.3apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 74.3%. Were you proud of your achievements with your game or was it something expected simply after coming from the German Pro B which was a lower league?


I expected to have a better turnover ratio, better shooting percentage and FT%, but most importantly more wins. I never got a championship and if I could go back I would make more strategic decisions to put me in a position to help a team win one. 

After making the next step in Italy and Israel as a player how do you feel did you make the next step in your game as a player? After Germany you stated you made this step with the fluidity your game changed and you felt more comfortable in certain situatiosn where you usually rushed things. What new steps did you make in Italy and Israel?


I became more comfortable on the ball and making the right reads in pick & roll situations. I focused on getting to the midrange instead of all the way to the basket sometimes so I could be a threat before the help would get there. I didn’t like how sped up I got at times so I tried to just let the game come to me. 

You recently began a Podcast called ‘Feed The Fam’. How did you come up with the idea and what is your goal with the program?

The goal is to just have an authentic space to share content. There are so many creative people that want to share their knowledge and help others. The objective is to collaborate and bring them together in a place that can be mutually beneficial for them and anyone listening. 

Luka Doncic had an amazing sophomore campaign. Is he a top 3 NBA player now?

No but he’s special and he definitely put the world on notice. 

Where were you when you heard about the death of Kobe Bryant. What kind of influence did he have on you during adolescence? 

I was at home. Growing up in LA, Kobe is a huge part of the culture and he is a large part of why I took basketball so seriously. The finals series between him and Allen Iverson changed my life. 

How bitter is it that the NCAA March Madness has been canceled? This tournament for some kids is the greatest time of their lives. What advice would you give that senior who worked hard for 4 years and would have had his one and only chance now?

It was a really unfortunate situation for a lot of programs. To work that hard and not have the opportunity to play on that stage is tough. I would tell the seniors to stay patient and win the psychological. You have to have supreme faith that everything will work out. Doubt is the enemy, especially for the rookies. 

What was the last movie that you saw?

Above the Rim. 

Thanks Kerry for the chat.

Abel Baptista is a 23 year old 193cm guard from Belgium that last season played with VOO Liege Basket (Euromillions League) playing 9 games averaging 10.7ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 82.1%. In 2018-2019 he played with Fellows Ekeren BBC Antwerp (Top Division I) averaging 15.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.2spg, 2.8bpg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 58.6%. In 2017-2018 he played with Hubo Limburg United (Euromillions League) playing 19 games averaging 2.0ppg. In 2016-2017 he played with Kon BC Gistel Oostende Duva Fruit (Top Division I) playing 20 games averaging 16.2ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 72.3%. He began his basketball career with Port of Antwerp Giants B . He spoke to germanhoops.com during the summer of 2020 about basketball. 

Abel thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been despite the whole COVID-19 crisis?

Thanks for having me. At this moment I’m at home with my family in Antwerp, Belgium. Despite the crisis my summer has been quite busy. I’ve had rehabilitation workouts and also basketball workouts and lifting weights, all of the good stuff basically.

How did you experience the whole COVID-19 crisis in Belgium. You played your last game on January 11th. Did you have tough injuries that effected your last season?

Because of the crisis I actually had more time to spend with my family, being with them basically 24/7 almost everyday for a couple of months. Something that I haven’t been used to ever since I joined the youth program at Antwerp Giants back in 2012. Yes I did get injured last season. I had plantar fasciitis which is a very nagging injury in the heel and feels like someone is stabbing a knife in your foot, that’s how painful it was. But I had treatment and rehabilitated and now I’m finally healthy and working out and playing basketball again. Thanks to the crisis (weird to say this) I had more time to rehab and work on my body. I feel good right now.

Was it a difficult challenge for you during COVID-19 to find gym time and a suitable place to keep in shape and practice your basketball skills?

Yes it was really difficult because in Belgium there are no open gyms and you have to use your creativity a little more. I worked out in my backyard and in my room to get back in shape but it’s really different from actually going to a gym because of the lack of apparels. I just made the best out of it and thank goodness the gyms are back open so I got back in shape pretty quickly since then.

How do you feel has the whole COVID-19 experience made you stronger as a man during these hard times?

It definitely made me stronger, it also made me a little more patient because everything actually slowed down and there’s nothing I could do about it. I can only control what I can control.

You played last season with VOO Liege Basket (Euromillions League) playing 9 games averaging 10.7ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 82.1%. You left in January 2020. How content were you with your season? Would it be fair to say that it was your strongest season as a professional?

I’m really hard on myself so I’m not really that satisfied with my season. I honestly feel that I could’ve done way better but I’ll try to do better wherever I might end up next season. Yes, this is my strongest season as a professional but I feel like there’s more to come. I feel like I can do more and I can do better.

What is your focus now as you search for a new club? You have played in Belgium your whole career. Do you feel like you might stay at home or could you imagine playing in another country?

Right now I’m focused on working on my game.And I’m staying ready for an opportunity whether it’s here in Belgium or abroad.

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

That’s a very good question. I think I play like DeMar DeRozan (without all of the athleticism lol) but with a better three point shot. And maybe a little bit like Jimmy Butler. But I try to watch as many as possible different NBA players so I can add a little something of everybody in my game.

Talk a little about your strengths. What do you feel is the biggest asset in your game?


My drive to the basket and creative finishes are definitely the biggest assets in my game. But my three point shot has also become a threat for sure. You can’t leave me open.

You shot 42% from outside in the Euromillions league last season. Do you feel like you have the needed self-confidence now to be able to keep shooting high percentages from outside?

Yes, I feel more confident about my shot right now but I’m not going to relax because it still needs more work to become a real threat. As were speaking right now, I’m actually extending my range a little more and working more on the off dribble pull up.

What kind of experience was it taking part at the 2020 Euromillions Allstar 3 point shooting contest? Which shooter in general is your biggest role model?

I didn’t take part in the Allstar 3 point shootout because I was injured. But my favorite shooter right now is definitely Damian Lillard

On what parts of your game are you working on most as you continue to work yourself up the basketball ladder?

I’m working on every aspect of the game. I think it’s important to work on everything, especially with the time I have right now. I just work on everything.

Two seasons ago you played with Fellows Ekeren BBC Antwerp (Top Division) averaging 15.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.2spg, 2.8bpg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 58.6%. How important was this season for you taking a step back after a tough season with Limburg?

It was a step back I had to take to stay ready for the next opportunity.

In 2017-2018 you played with Hubo Limburg United (Euromillions League) playing 19 games averaging 2.0ppg. What do you remember from this season and what do you feel was the most positive thing that you gained from this time?

I remember everything from that season. Despite the lack of playing time I had a really good time learning from all of my teammates and coaches, everybody was cool. And I’ll definitely remember the life lessons I got from the team captain Wen Mukubu.

After playing the first years of your career with Port Of Antwerp, in 2016-2017 you switched to Kon BC Gistel Oostende Duva Fruit (Top Division I) playing 20 games averaging 16.2ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 72.3%. What memories do you have from this season and how vital was that season for your development being it was your first club after Antwerp?


I remember every single detail of that season. That was my favorite season ever for sure, I had great teammates, a great coaching staff and we had a great supporting cast over there. Everything was great in Oostende.I could say that it prepared me for the professional basketball world.

You began your basketball career with Port Of Antwerp. What memories do you have from your early basketball schooling and could you imagine returning back in the future to play?

I remember the first practices there. Very tough because it was my first time practicing twice a day everyday but I learned a lot and it made me better. I could see myself returning one day but we’ll see what the future holds.

Who was the toughest player that you ever played against that was in the NBA?


I never played in the NBA but the toughest player I played against in the Euromillions League is Braian Angola

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

There’s too many to just name 5 lol

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore of players past or present

Michael Jordan
Kobe Bryant 
Kevin Durant
Kareem Abdul Jabbar
Wilt Chamberlain 

What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate between who is the best between Michael Jordan and Lebron James?

I think it’s something subjective and everybody is entitled to have its own opinion but MJ is the GOAT by far!

What was the last movie that you saw?

I don’t really watch movies that often, therefore I can’t remember. But I love watching series and the last series I watched is called Black-ish.

Thanks Abel for the chat.

It was a very unseasonably warm afternoon in February  2020 when I found myself at Frankfurt airport with my son as we were in Terminal 2 watching planes land from far away places like Hong Kong and Los Angeles and planes take off to far away places like Buenos Aires and Sydney. Life was still feeling good as COVID-19 had struck in the far east, but was still a few weeks away before totally paralyzing the rest of the world. After watching some planes, I went inside and watched my son play in the indoor play ground and in the corner of my eye, I saw a giant waiting to get some food at a take out place. I knew instantly that that person was a basketball player and not too long after, I recognized a familiar face in Fraport Skyliner power forward Niklas Kiel. Right away his young career flew through my mind like lightening and my first thought was “How much misfortune can a person only have”? Here was a 22 year old 207cm power forward who could have had everything he wanted as a basketball player, but just like thousands of players who asked themselves in March 2020 “what could have been with our season had COVID-19 not been reality”, Kiel and many more will wonder forever where his career would have gone had he been able to continue his career until retirement in his 30´s. Instead the big friendly German will have to look for a new job as he announced his retirement at age 22, 2 days shy of his 23^rd birthday. Anybody that knows me as a basketball journalist might have expected me to go over to Kiel in the food line and be a semi pain in the neck drilling him with questions about his medical condition. Instead I walked over to him smiled and said hello. We had a little small talk and then said goodbye. I respected his privacy and for once in my life didn´t have interview plastered all over my face. “I have never known a player that had as much bad luck as Niklas did. I seriously believe that if he hadn´t had all these health complications that he could of reached a Euroleague or even a NBA team. That is just how good he was”, stressed Fraport Skyliners captain Quantez Robertson.

                Kiel was born on September 4^th, 1997 in Herford and began his basketball career at BBG Herford. He learned quickly what it meant to play with men as he played with BBG Herford as a 15 year old and overall played 27 Regionalliga games between 2012-2014 while also playing for the Paderborn(U-16) youth team. Before he even landed in Frankfurt, he was a huge basketball prospect and had experienced a lot. Before coming to Frankfurt, he had played 2 U-16 European championships, played a few JBBL(U-16) championships where he was named MVP in 2013 posting 26.9ppg, 20.0rpg stats and in 2014 he was named NBBL rookie of the year with impressive 15.1ppg, 13.5rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3bpg stats. He also played at the famous Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany (Unofficial World Championships U18) in 2014 putting up strong 12.7ppg, 10.7rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 20%, FT: 66.7% stats. He came to Frankfurt in 2014 with a lot of self-confidence and put up solid numbers for the farm team Juniors averaging  9.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 19.6%, FT: 70.8%, and also played for the Skyliners U-19 team and also celebrated his first BBL game in October 2015 against Tuebingen and nailed his first shot which was a three pointer. “I can still remember a young Niklas when he arrived in Frankfurt. He was excited and had so much energy. He was so happy to be part of a high level organization like the Fraport Skyliners”, remembers Quantez Robertson. In his second season, he continued to get extended minutes with the Pro B farm team and had his break out there playing 24 games averaging 14.1ppg, 7.3rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT-2(90.4%). He was still getting groomed as a future BBL player and was only inserted into one BBL game scoring 5 points in 8 minutes in a crushing 92-64 victory over Tuebingen. In his third season he had his break-through as he played 27 BBL games averaging  6.4ppg, 2.9rpg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 79.0%; in 14 minutes per game and also got his first taste of international club basketball playing 12 Basketball Champions League games averaging 2,8ppg and 2,3rpg in 12 minutes per game. During this time, he was living with a host family. It happened to be with his teammate Max Merz and he saw close hand how quickly a career can end as Max´s brother Jakob had to retire at age of 17 on account of massive cartilage damage in both legs. Merz wasn´t the only young Skyliner that had to retire because of injury, but it also had happened to other players Dominik Hennen and Kirsten Zoellner. Kiel was already a good kid from nature, but this experience showed him up front how valuable an education was and he proceeded to finish school and have a degree in his pocket.

            The 2017-2018 season was when the basketball God no longer looked after him and the annoying misfortune came and just wouldn´t leave him alone. After a solid third season, the expectations grew for the talented German who was a modern day forward that could score in the paint, rebound, pass and hit the three pointer. His goals were clear. He had to continue to develop and wanted to test the NBA Draft in 2019. But instead of steady development came constant agony. He suffered his first concussion in preseason as he got a unintentional elbow to his face from teammate Mike Morrison in practice. Instead of taking more time to analyse his condition, he was back on the court a few weeks later. It didn´t take long until he suffered his second concussion in his 3^rd game back and then he sat out for 3 months. All in all, the big man played only 10 games in his fourth season averaging 1,1ppg and 1,6rpg. In the summer came concussion number 3 as he suffered dizziness and fell on his head. This was the absolute down point in his young life. He had to sit in a dark room for many weeks as his sense of balance and ability to smell were damaged, his sight was limited and he had severe physical and coordination deficits. He never gave up and fought his way back in the 2018-2019 season and made his come back on March 29^th against Rasta Vechta playing 12 minutes 316 days after his last game. He finished the season strong considering all that he had suffered in the last 12 months averaging 4,8ppg, 4,1rpg and 1,2apg. He had 2 9 point games against Wurzburg and Bremerhaven. In August 2019, the Fraport Skyliners announced that Kiel wouldn´t be in their plans for2019-2020 season. Obviously his health wasn´t 100% as his concussion history must of continued to give him set backs. I reached his ex coach Gordon Herbert in Russia today and one could feel just how much respect and love he has for his ex player. “Niklas was a tremendous prospect with a great future. A very sad situation that ended his career. He is a great kid that faced tremendous adversity and fought his way through it a couple of times. The last time was just too severe with the after effects. He was a great inspiration to all of us that saw what he went through. He is a young man with great human values which is a reflection of his parents. I wish Niklas all the best going forward”, stressed ex Fraport Skyliners head coach Gordon Herbert. Despite Kiel playing his last BBL game in May 2019 and having had all that health baggage accompany him, his teammate Quantez Robertson still saw a lot of growth in his game. “He was a hard worker and tough. He always crashed the boards strong and was a good rim protector at times. He was that modern day power forward, a player that could score with his back to the basket, get to the rim and hit the occasional jumper. He was working on his three pointer the most at the end”, added Quantez Robertson.

                I never had that special one on one relationship with Niklas Kiel, but it was nothing personal, because it has always been the Americans that I have clicked best with. But any encounter I had with him was always positive. He was always friendly and had good manners the way any young person should be. I remember seeing him play every weekend in his first 2 seasons sometimes 2-3 times because he was playing for many teams like the Pro B team Juniors and NBBL(U-19) youth team. I saw Niklas grow as a player and like so many other basketball junkies am very disappointed that I will never see how he would have turned out as a player. Obviously the most important thing is that he can have a healthy life after basketball and be able to matriculate into a profession where he will be content and happy. His ex teammate Quantez Robertson is sure that Niklas will go his way successfully after basketball even if it won´t be a cake walk at the start. “It will be tough for him to get over this. It will take some time. It took him this long to decide to retire. That just shows how much he really loved the game”, stressed Quantez Robertson. The German goes into retirement having played 49 BBL games for the Fraport Skyliners, 51 Pro B games and 12 Basketball Champions League games. Fans will remember him as a hard working player that had a lot of talent, but just couldn´t shake the injury and misfortune bug. Gordon Herbert surely could of mentioned many fondest moments with him, but instead will always remember 2 qualities of him that defined him as a player and person. “: “I will remember most how he competed overall and how much he wanted to succeed”, warned Avtodor head coach Gordon Herbert. His teammate Quantez Robertson stayed brief about his fondest memory, but it was one that clearly showed how he saw life. “Niklas always had a big smile and was just a happy kid. That is how I will remember him most”, stressed Quantez Robertson. I wish Niklas Kiel all the best and maybe he will come back every now and then and watch some home games. I´m sure that that big smile will still be on display.