Bryan Smithson is a 30 year old 185cm point guard from Kennesaw,Georgia playing his thried season in Germany. He started his basketball career at Middle Tennessee St. (NCAA) in 2003 where he played two seasons. He then moved to NC-Asheville (NCAA) where he finished his college career and as a senior played 29 games: 16.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 4.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3Pts: 41.1%, FT: 83.5%. He played two seasons for the Kirchheim Knights in the German Pro A where he was top 5 in assists in the league the last two seasons. Last season for Kichheim he played 28 games: 12.0ppg, 3.4rpg, Assists-5(5.0apg), FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 88.2%. This season he is playing for the MLP Academics Heidelberg and spoke to German Hoops after the big 63-62 win against the ETB Wohnbau baskets Essen.

 

 

Bryan congrats on the 63-62 win against the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen. For a rare time you weren´t the hero at the end of the game, but it was actually your teammate American Devon White. You have won games at the end on numerous occasions this season. Does it seem strange when someone else does what you have done so often this season?

Hi Miles, thank you for the interview and the congratulations. I felt very satisfied that Devon was able to make such a big defensive play at the end of the game vs. Essen. Individually speaking, it must be gratifying for him due to the history he has with Essen, but Devon also understood the importance of this game for our team and he came through for us. I do not feel strange if I am not making the game winning play, but it gives me that much more confidence in my team at the end of games.

The MLP Academics Heidelberg proved again how well they stick together as a team in tense moments. Was this win another step in the long march towards reaching a playoff spot?

We are still learning here in Heidelberg. Many changes have taken place this season and we are still developing our chemistry week to week. Every win is a step toward reaching the playoffs.

It was another very hard battle until the end between Heidelberg and Essen. Was this game another example really how balanced the German Pro A is in that you can´t take any nights off?

Essen is a tough team and we knew it would be a battle on our home court. They have a lot of experience to go along with a coach who competes every season in a tough German ProA league. There is no nights off in this league and you have to be focused on your opponent every week or you will get beat.

Devon White won the game with a free throw and then made a big block of top Essen player Tre Bowman. Did White once again prove that he is without a doubt the team´s best defender?

Devon’s extra effort at the end of the game ensured that Essen did not get another shot at the basket to win the game. He is special defensively and I would call him our most versatile defender. Devon is able to guard every position on the floor because of his length and athleticism. When a player like that is on the court it opens up many options when it comes to defensive schematics.

Did you see video of Steph Curry´s winning three against The Thunder last night? As a guy who has hit numerous big shots this season and otherwise in your career, do you ever think about big winning shots that have been made when you are on the floor in clutch moments?

I was lucky enough to witness the shot Steph hit vs OKC the other night. I do think about big winning shots, but I try to stay focused on my personal success with those shots because it gives me the confidence I need at that pivotal moment. Off the floor, I am no different than any other basketball player putting myself in the shoes of the great ones and imagining how I might react in the game winning situations they are in.

You are the leader on the team and have come up big so many times this season in games. How quickly did you notice in the game against Essen that you had to be more of a scorer than a creator?

I took a quick rest on the bench at the start of the 2nd quarter and at that time I realized I needed to be more aggressive offensively. When I checked back into the game I made sure to establish myself as a threat with the ball and that allowed the other guys to play off me later in the game. Sometimes it is necessary for me to take the scoring mentality on this team.

The MLP Academics Heidelberg are 12-12 now and in good range of making the playoffs. How much did the losses against Leverkusen and Baunach hurt?

The losses against Leverkusen and Baunach hurt because every loss hurts your chances to reach the playoffs. Of course, at this time of year losses are magnified but when I look back to earlier in the season, we let a few games slip that equivalently hurt our campaign for the playoffs.

Before the win against Essen, Heidelberg had lost five of their last six games. The team didn´t play particularly bad, but just had some misfortune in this stretch. What does the team need to do better in the next five games to reach the playoffs?

For Heidelberg to make the playoffs it is simple, we need to win 3 of the next 5 games. In order to accomplish that, we must be better offensively by moving the ball and making decisions purposefully. On the defensive end, we have got to put together longer stretches of discipline and make the 2nd and 3rd rotation consistently.

Recently you played 50 minutes scoring 31 points and dishing out 11 assists in a 94-90 loss to Baunach. What hurt more as the siren sounded, your muscles or losing another tight affair?

The pain of losing such a hard fought game drained me physically and maybe even more than the 50 minutes itself.

You really are playing a lot of minutes at the moment. What is key at age 30 to be as fresh as possible in the stretch run of a season?

At my age it is important for me to understand how my body moves, reacts, and recovers to different stimuli. Understanding my body and listening to it is the key to performing night in and night out. I am typically the first one in the gym and the last one to leave. My teammates often times laugh at me for the things that I do but hopefully it rubs off on them and they start to understand the importance of it all. Also, I am extremely lucky to have a great medical team in Heidelberg that continue to help me achieve my physical goals.

How do you recap the NBA trade line deals? What teams did the best?

There were not any deals that excited me this season. The Clippers made a great move to receive Jeff Green which will help them throughout the rest of the season. The only other deal that I liked was the Hawks bringing Hinrich back because he gives them some more experience that will be important come playoff time.

EX NBA players have attacked the Golden State Warriors saying the NBA isn´t as physical as it once was. Are these players just jealous or would Steph Curry and the Warriors not dominate say 20-30 years ago?

I can not say the players from the past are jealous, however, it is apparent that they are just as competitive today as they were when they played in the NBA. I think it comes out in bad taste because they had their time and instead of trying to compare eras, everyone should sit back and have fun watching history be made. The NBA is not as physical today but the NBA was not as athletic before so it is impossible to compare. I am enjoying watching the Warriors win and I am excited that I get to see a guy like Steph Curry do the things he does.

Recently ESPN ranked the top 100 NBA players of all time. They placed Lebron James at #3 before NBA legends Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Bill Russell. Do you feel that is justified?

Rankings are always messy and debatable because everyone bases their rankings upon different criteria. To keep it simple, I think it is premature to rank Lebron in front of Larry Legend, Magic Johnson, and Bill Russell.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Zookeeper with Kevin James.

 

Thanks Bryan for the chat.

 

Andrew Jones is a 32 year old 191cm shooting guard that has been a professional basketball player since 2007 and has returned back to the Dresden Titans this season. He played at Miles(NCAA2) and has played in Germany for most of his professional career with four seasons with the Dresden Titans and three seasons with the BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga). He also gained experience playing with teams like Marietta Storm (SEBL), BC Celtics (SEBL), C.B. Aridane (Spain-EBA) and Universidad Tecnologica Equinoc. Quito (Ecuador-National League). Last season he played for BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 19,9ppg, 6,5rpg and 3,9apg. He spoke to German Hoops after then huge 113-88 win against the BIS Baskets Speyer.

 

Andrew congrats on the huge 113-88 win against the BIS Baskets Speyer. Dresden has demonstrated all season long in phases that they can put up points, but is the club now a real lethal scoring machine?

Thanks a lot Miles. I will definitely say yes! We have 6 guys on our team who have scored 20 points in at least one game this season thus far. Our style of play gives us the opportunity to be a high scoring team

After one quarter Dresden put up 37 points. Do you ever remember scoring that many points in one quarter with Dresden even when Jason Boucher was on the team?

I would have to go back and research that one, lol. I know we have 12 solid guys on this team that can really contribute. It’s easier to pass to the next guy when you are confident in their decision making.

If you had to chose one, which was the biggest offensive strength of the Dresden Titans, the field goal percentage(54%), three point shooting(41%), passing(31 assists) or ball movement?

I would have to say the 31 assists. It shows everyone is involved. That is where our confidence in each other shows the most.

On an afternoon where all shots are falling, does one tend to forget about defense at times?

Defense will be the most important part of our playoff push. Sometimes when the offense is going good, the defense suffers at times. However, we have a great coaching staff that keeps us focused on defense.

You have played in the German Pro B for years and have seen so many good Germans each weekend. The three Speyer Americans combined for 56 of the 88 points while for Dresden the German players combined for 60 of the 118 points. Please explain how vital the German role players are in this league?

It’s very important to have strong German players. You can have the best Americans on your team. However, a strong German core will place that team in a better position.

Since the bitter 90-86 loss in Frankfurt, Dresden is riding a 4 game winning streak. What has changed in the mental aspect of the team as well as in the play that has brought the team this winning streak?

The game against Frankfurt could have gone a different way. We took that game as a learning situation for the future. We want to finish games strong. In Frankfurt, we did not have this mentality.

What has head coach Steven Clauss given the offense that wasn´t there previously? Is the combination of freedom and ball movement been something the team has understood to mesh together?

Every player on this team knows if your open then you shoot the ball. Coach Clauss will let you hear about if you don’t. It’s either shoot, quick drive or pass. When everyone is on the same page, it creates less indecisiveness.

Dresden will close out the regular season against high flying team Nordlingen who you lost to in the first regular season. How much momentum will the team have if it can go into the playoffs beating Nordlingen?

The momentum has already started. It is very important to close the last game out. We want to go into the playoffs with great chemistry. Nordlingen is a top team, which will be a great preparation for the playoffs.

Your game also has picked up under head coach Steven Clauss. You seemed to have become a more effective player to some degree. Did Clauss have a talk with you and help you get self confidence back?

I have always been a confident player in my professional career. However, the first half of the season was tough for me. But, that’s life sometimes. Coach Clauss and I have had a few conversations. His positive energy is unbelievable! It’s not the confidence he has in me, it’s the confidence he puts in the team. I’ve seen some of my teammates do things in a game they never done before. That motivates me even more!!!

How much fun is it playing basketball again and being able to play in the playoffs and compete for a title?

This is great! I’m definitely enjoying myself. It’s even better when you know 11 other guys are hungry to compete as well.

How do recap the NBA trade line deals? What teams did the best?

I have to say no matter who got who during trade deadlines, they still have to play the Warriors lol.

EX NBA players have attacked the Golden State Warriors saying the NBA isn´t as physical as it once was. Are these players just jealous or would Steph Curry and the Warriors not dominate say 20-30 years ago?

It was a lot more physical back then. A hard foul back then would be an ejection from the game now. However, people have to understand a good basketball player will adapt to the style of play. Curry could go back 20 or 30 years. He would just have to adapt to the physicality.

Recently ESPN ranked the top 100 NBA players of all time. They placed Lebron James at #3 before NBA legends Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Bill Russell. Do you feel that is justified?

Magic and Bird basically saved the NBA. The game was a lot more interesting because of them. Bill Russell is an eleven time NBA champion. So, when you leave these guys out someone will be upset. When Lebron retires, then we can make an official ranking.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Hoop Dreams.

Thanks Andrew for the chat.

 

John Eggleston is a 26 year old 203cm power forward from Noblesville, Indiana that is playing his fourth year as a professional and first for the MLP Academics Heidelberg.He played at  Pennsylvania (NCAA) from 2007-2011. He played a total of 125 NCAA games. In his senior year he played 28 games: 13.2ppg, 8.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 45.1%, FT: 73.5%. As a rookie or Leverkusen he played  23 games: 14.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 71.2%. Two seasons ago for Leverkusen he played 33 games: 15.3ppg, Reb-2(11.1rpg), 3.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 74.7%. Last season in the German Pro A for Leverkusen he played 20 games: 16.3ppg, Reb-3(9.0rpg), 3.9apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 80.9%. He spoke to German Hoops after the big 78-57 win against the RheinStars.

 

Jack congrats on the 78-57 win against the RheinStars. Did you sense an urgency from the team to want this win after losing a nail bitter 80-76 at the start of the season?

I definitely feel like we approached this game with a sense of urgency. The close loss early in the season was a factor in that, but we’re also motivated by the desire to make a strong playoff push down the stretch here.

The Gladiators Trier played very good defense for three quarters, but let up 23 points in the second quarter. What annoyed you most during the halftime break thinking about how the team went from allowing 8 points in the first quarter to 23 in the second?

We were not pleased with the defense we played in the second quarter, but we still went into the half up seven points. If we go into the break with a lead at home, that’s always a good situation for us.

Was holding Alex Foster and Lakeem Jackson combined to 5 points half the rent to getting the win as the club relies on their production very much?

It was important for us to keep those two players in check over the course of the game. They both are key players to that team, and limiting their output was a big factor in our success.

How satisfying is it to know that even when not all parts of the offense is working steadily like the outside shooting that one can more often than not still get a win when one defends well?

Defense is something that we pride ourselves on as a team. I think tough pressure defense is a strong part of our group identity and we showed how effective we can be on that side of the ball.

How proud are of the team that they have been able to play so well the last weeks despite not having key piece Kwadzo Ahelegbe in the line up?

Whenever you are missing a key veteran presence like Kwadzo, everyone else needs to step up and fill in for him. I think Brandon has done a fantastic job taking on some of the scoring load and Simon has been great assuming the lion share of the ball handling duties.

The Gladiators Trier have won five of their last six games and playing very solid ball at the moment. Is the main goal now finishing strong and getting the highest possible playoff spot and home court advantage?

The goal is the same as it has been all year: we want to improve as a team every day. I think if we achieve that goal or come close to it, we will like where we end up at the end of the season.

You had more of an offensive role with Leverkusen and Heidelberg, but how much pressure does the consistent scoring of Dwayne Evans and Brandon Spearman take off your game to allow you to focus to other things on the court?

With Dwayne and Brandon out there putting on a show every game, I just try to focus on doing the little things to make their lives easier. Those two are the focal point of our team, and it’s fun for me to be able to play with them this season.

Dwayne Evans has been a real beast this season. How has his game made you a better player on the court?

Dwayne is in the midst of a fantastic season right now. Having to match up with him in practice forces me to up my game every day and try to play at a higher level. When we play together, I feel like his intelligence and poise spread to me and everyone on the court.

It has been a different type of season for you as your scoring and rebounding is not what you had in previous seasons, but how do you feel have has the success of the Gladiators Trier benefited most from your play?

I try to bring consistent effort and energy to the team every day. Whatever the coach tells me to do or the team needs me to do, I work as hard as I can to get it done.

You had a very strong game with 10 points and eight rebounds. Can a game like this just instantly give a player new self confidence again or does that come differently from player to player?

I can only speak for myself, but in my case confidence does not come from just one game. It’s something you have to build and maintain throughout the ups and downs of a long season.

How do recap the NBA trade line deals? What teams did the best?

I didn’t follow much of what went on at the trade deadline. All I know is my Pacers stood pat.

Recently ESPN ranked the top 100 NBA players of all time. They placed Lebron James at #3 before NBA legends Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Bill Russell. Do you feel that is justified?

If you extrapolate out for the rest of LeBron’s career and assume that he will decline modestly but continue to play into his late thirties, then I think that is a fair ranking. Putting him third all time based on his career to date is a bit of a tougher sell for me though.

What was the last movie that you saw?

I just watched the Entourage movie.

Thanks Jack for the chat.

 

 

Brandon Jefferson is a 24 year old 175cm point guard from Flower Mound, Texas that is playing second professional season and first in Germany with Phoenix Hagen and currently averaging 10,5ppg, 2,8rpg and 4,0apg. Last season as a rookie he played for KTP Basket Kotka (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 48 games: Score-4(18.5ppg), 4.0rpg, 2.4apg, Steals-2(2.2spg), FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 88.0%; EuroChallenge: 6 games: 13.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 88.5%. He started his basketball career in 2010 for Metro State(NCAA2) where he played a total of 129 NCAA games. In college he was able to improve his scoring and rebounding average each season. As a senior he played 34 games averaging 21.6ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.4apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 45.3%, FT: 92.3%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball before the game against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg.

 

 

Brandon thanks for talking to German Hoops. The Beko BBL teams had a 2 week break between the cup top 4 in Munich. Did Phoenix Hagen give the team some time off and how did you pass the time? Did you visit any nice sights?

Yes sir, coach gave us some time off to recover. I didn’t leave the Hagen area at all. I used the time to freshen up my mind. The mental part is key.

Last season you played 48 games for KTP Basket Kotka (Finland-Korisliiga) and currently you have played 22 games for Phoenix Hagen. In your second season as a professional how do you feel at the moment body wise with the work load of playing in your second professional season?

I feel pretty good actually. I learned a lot from last year on how to take care of my body. It’s a long, grind it out season, and players/teams break down because of all the games. It’s vital to take care of the body on and off the court so you can perform at your best.

Phoenix Hagen is 3-3 in 2016 and in 11th place. What is your 2016 summary thus far in terms how the club has been performing?

We are .500 in 2016 so far. I really don’t think back at all our games, but our last game against Wurzburg was huge for us. We still can learn a lot from that game, but that was one of our most complete games of the season.

Phoenix Hagen often beat teams below them, but lose to teams above them. What do you feel is still missing from Phoenix Hagen to being a type of playoff team?

I don’t feel that Phoenix Hagen is missing anything. If you look back on the season, we’ve beat top teams. We’ve given up 20 point leads numerous times that have cost us, but it’s all in the process of learning from those games. I feel confident that we can make a run at the playoffs and get in. We are in a good spot right now as a team.

The season is still long, but Phoenix Hagen is in 10th place two wins from the last playoff team. How conscious is the club that the playoffs could be a reality this season?

We are conscious of the playoff race. We are taking it one day at a time though. It starts in practice. We have a game on the road this Friday against a great team. That’s all we are worried about right now.

Does Phoenix Hagen realize that they are a very good three point shooting team and if they could just defend more consistently would make the difference between a playoff team and non playoff team?

Everyone in the league knows that we can shoot the three at a high level. Offense can only take you so far. You can’t out score people in this league. The teams are too good. How we defend will ultimately decide if we make the playoffs or not. We have to get stops at a high level so we can get out and do what we do on the offensive end.

Why is the club unable to defend better as it is allowing 85 points per game?

We are more than capable to defend teams. We are growing each and every day on the defensive end. It starts with us guards. We need to bring the intensity and the rest of the team will follow us!

In the last week, you held a very talented Wurzburg team to 71 points. Was that the first step in Phoenix Hagen becoming a good defensive team?

It didn’t shock us at all that we held Wurzburg to 71 points. We can do that every night. Our mindset needs to be like that every time we step on the court. We have the personnel to be a great defensive team, but everyone needs to be on the same page and communicating at a high level with each other.

Usually one looks at David Bell, Adam Hess or you as the main shooting options, but explain just how valuable the shooting of JJ Mann is?

JJ Man is a great shooter. He spreads the court for us even more. He’s not only a spot up shooter though. He can create for others and get to the basket. He shoots a high percentage from the free throw line which also makes him dangerous.

How much fun was it being a part of David Bell´s 36 points against the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg? Does his worth rise with every new amazing game he has?

Dave is a veteran! I expect him to do that! He’s a great player! What he did that night didn’t surprise anyone on the team. We see him put in the work day in and day out! He definitely got us going that night. It wasn’t only his scoring, his defensive energy was contagious. He had a terrific game.

Despite the 86-83 loss against Alba Berlin, was this one of your most memorable games this season as your 24 points stole the show from Americans Jordan Taylor and Will Cherry?

I don’t really think about the game that much. It’s in the past and we lost. I remember one play from the game though where I crossed a player and hit a step back three. I only remember that because it was all over the Internet. Other than that, I don’t really remember the game.

Did your performance against Alba Berlin prove to you that you can play at the highest level in Europe?

I’ve put in the work to be a great player! I know what I’m capable of doing. Need to keep God first and continue to stay humble and just work! Keep climbing the ladder!

You have very solid stats averaging 13,9ppg, 2,9rpg and 4,3apg while shooting 39% from outside. Is hitting from closer range one of your biggest building blocks at the moment as you are at 34%?

To be honest, I don’t pay attention to stats until after the season. I do know that I need to start finishing my lay ups more. I’m getting to the rim, just need to finish. That’s part of why my 2’s field goal percentage is low. I’m not really worried about it though. I don’t focus on the missed shots. I’m already looking at the next play. My college coach at Metro State would always tell me “next play, next play”

How do recap the NBA trade line deals? What teams did the best?

Thought the Clippers and the Cavs both made good trades to enhance their chances. Jeff Green was a big time pick up for the Clippers. I’m glad they kept Blake Griffin because he gives them a better chance to beat the Warriors.

Recently ESPN ranked the top 100 NBA players of all time. They placed Lebron James at #3 before NBA legends Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Bill Russell. Do you feel that is justified?

I feel that they placed him too high as of now. At the end of his career, he will definitely be top 5 greatest of all time. His versatility and the freak of nature he is puts him above a lot of people. His basketball IQ is high as well!

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I watched was The Hateful Eight.

Thanks Brandon for the chat.

 

Julian Scott is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Sacramento, California that is playing his second professional season and first with the Uni Riesen Leipzig. Last season he played for TSV Quakenbrueck (Germany-2.Regionalliga) playing 16 games averaging 29.7ppg. He started his basketball career at Yuba junior college and then played two years at S.Utah (NCAA). He finished at Adams St. (NCAA2) playing 27 games: 10.8ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 70.2%. He spoke to German Hoops before the game against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors.

 

 

Julian a bitter 113-105 lost against the Giants Nördlingen . How did your muscles feel on Monday morning?

Yes tough loss but guess it was pay back for last time. My muscles felt fine tired but fine.

What is the worst about a loss like this when the team played 55 minutes? The body or the mental part?

I do hate losing but if I’m going to lose its going down fighting a triple overtime definitely shows our character against a tough opponent. So it’s definitely physical and mentally draining

Do you sense that the 84-83 heartbreaking loss was in the back of the minds of Nordlingen for the whole 55 minutes?

Who knows I mean that was earlier in the year but I believe everyone was exhausted and it came down to the little things in the end.

The Uni Riesen Leipzig played a three OT game and you played 48 minutes. Can you remember ever playing so many minutes in one game?

I played I believe 45 mins this season in an overtime game against Ehingen so yeah pretty close.

Lets talk about the game as your memory is still fresh. At halftime, the Giants were leading 45-39. Was there any moment were you were feeling this could be a long afternoon/night?

Nope I knew it would be a close game all of our games are close but no one can predict a battle like that.

After three quarters of good scoring for Nordlingen, Leipzig buckled down in the fourth quarter taking the game in OT limiting the Nordlingen scoring machine to four points. What was key for limiting them so much?

It just came down to who wanted to win I believe we wanted it just as bad as they did. We needed to find ways to respond and we did it on the defensive end. They just responded and kept throwing more punches.

Leipzig had the 69-67 lead for three minutes until Leo Vrkas sent the game into OT with a bucket. He actually scored the last two baskets before OT. Did Leipzig suffer some defensive breakdowns in this phase of was the mental part also present?

It just came down to fatigue that’s all he hit some big shots to help his team and all you can do is tip your hat to the guy.

In the second OT, it looked like Nordlingen would finally pull through and win as Janek Schmidkunz hit a three, but once again Leipzig never gave up and got to a third OT once again with free throws. How confident was your team just being able to do what you wanted to and draw the foul when it was needed?

At that point I thought we were going to pull through and win the game after that foul but it wasn’t in our favor to finish it right then and there.

In the third OT Nordlingen had had enough pouring home 19 points. Was there a fatigue factor present in the third OT?

Yes I think any game in a triple overtime fatigue is going to set in they just responded better and knew how to win.

Despite the heartbreaking loss was there anything possible that the UNI Riesen Leipzig could take that will be able to spurn them on to further success in the next games?

O definitely we go into every game knowing we are to going give each opponent hell. We are a small bunch but very confident as well so we have short memory’s and its on to the next one.

How challenging was it battling Jordan Talbert twice this season? You both are the two best forwards in the Pro B south.

Talbert is a good player so with that you just have to do the best you can. We did a solid job defending throughout the course of the game.

Is the fact that four players combined for 100 of the 105 points scare you a bit?

Doesn’t scare in any kind of way, because we made it into the playoffs with this same group of guys we have had a lot of adversity we weren’t expected to make the playoffs but we made it happen so I’m as confident as ever with this group.

How proud are you that the club stuck with a very powerful Nordlingen team despite having a seven man rotation and five guys that combined for 259 minutes?

I’m proud we fought hard I’m not happy about losing ever but if your going to lose go out swinging and for the most part we did that.

With two games remaining, you have scored in double figures in every game and registered 13 double doubles. Has your game progressed the way that you have liked going into the playoffs?

My game as player has progressed as far as a mental standpoint that’s what I care about right now learning how to be more effective and help get the best out of my teammates each and every game. I still have much to learn.

Do you see yourself becoming more of a beast in the playoffs?

I play as hard as I can every game so I’m not really focused on trying to be more of a beast haha just want to compete with my guys and see what happens.

The next game is against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors that beat you 79-66 in Frankfurt. What memories do you have of that game?

I remember they were physical but we weren’t all that gelled as a team yet I look forward to playing Frankfurt at full strength this next time around.

The rebounds and 23 turnovers were a huge issue in the Frankfurt game. What will be key in getting the win on the weekend?

For me I will try and be a monster on the boards and give the team all I have. We just need to compete that’s it we do that we can beat anyone in this league. I truly believe that from the number 1 team to the dead last team.

How do recap the NBA trade line deals? What teams did the best?

I would say best come up clippers with Jeff Green

What was the last movie that you saw?

Last movie would be CREED.

 

Thanks Julian for the chat.

Thanks Miles

Michael Brown is a 23 year old 190cm guard from Heber City, Utah playing his rookie season in Germany with the Iserlohn Kangaroos in the Pro B league. He started his basketball career in 2011 with Weber St. (NCAA) where he played 16 NCAA games. He then moved to Colorado Christian (NCAA2) playing his last three years of school and as a senior played 18 games: averaging 16.3ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 77.9%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

Mike thanks for talking to German Hoops. You are a rookie this season playing in the German Pro B for Iserlohn. When you came to the club in pre season did you get a feeling quickly that this could be a special season?

When I arrived for our first practice, I had no idea what to expect. What I do remember is that everyone was so welcoming and kind. I felt like I fit in right away, which doesn’t always happen on basketball teams. I also remember that our first practice was very intense, and we were competing at a high level. I knew right away that this team was very hard working. I had heard that sometimes it can be a tough experience as a rookie, so I definitely felt like this team was special by how well we fit together from an early stage.

In your final season at Colorado Christian (NCAA2) you won the D-2 national title. Do you feel some of those vibes were transported to your rookie season with Iserlohn?

It was certainly nice to end my college career with a win. I knew that Iserlohn had a very successful year in the 2014-2015 season. I consider myself very fortunate that I was able to join an already fantastic club and organization.

: Last weekend Iserlohn suffered a tough 77-74 loss to the hands of Bochum. Bochum won the game at the end with free throws. Where in your opinion was this game lost?

When you lose a game by 3 points, you spend the night thinking about the things we could have done differently in order to win the game. Truth is, Bochum played an outstanding game, and they deserve credit there. But we feel that the game was lost because of our inability to play good defense in the second half.

How bitter was it losing a close game stopping the powerful Iserlohn 8 game winning streak?

It was extremely disappointing. But it was also an opportunity for us to learn a lesson before playoffs start.

Iserlohn has only lost twice since the start of October to Artland and Bochum and just dominated the German pro B north. What has been the secret to the success of the team?

I would say that we have good team chemistry, and put in a lot of hard work. Everyone contributes, from the fans, to the management and coaching, on to the players.

How important is the fact that team doesn´t have one or two guys scoring 17-18 points, but a team that rely on each other for success?

We think that it is extremely important. We have each other’s back, and rely on each other a lot. We also have a lot of confidence in one another.

Does the success start on the defensive end? The team is allowing 72 points a game and average a potent 35 rebounds per game?

Defense is a huge part of it. Coach Matthias puts emphasis on the defensive end. It is an important factor in winning any game.

Does the fact that the club isn´t the best three pointing team unease you at times?

Yes, we as a team recognize our weakness in that area. We want to continue to practice and improve, but also focus on our strengths in order to win games.

Iserlohn have solid Americans with Jerry Brown, Deion Giddens and yourself and very solid Germans. How important is the fact that the club has 7 guys with Beko BBL experience?

It is very important. The German players are extremely talented, and bring a ton of professional experience to the team. I myself have learned a tremendous amount from them this year.

Iserlohn doesn´t always have every player available due to their duties to Beko BBL team Phoenix Hagen. Is the shifting of line ups and the success this season been a big credit to head coach Matthias Grothe?

Absolutely. Coach has a reason for everything he does. He knows matchups, players, statistics, better than anyone I have ever met. A huge credit to coach Matthias.

How focused is the team at the moment for securing a title this season?

Extremely focused, everyone wants to win the title very badly.

Iserlohn next play playoff team Rostock which you beat 77-73 earlier in the season. What do you remember from that game and what will be key to sweeping the regular seasons series?

I remember that it was a close game, and that they are a talented team. I have heard that Rostock is very good playing at home. The key will be to play good defense, and stay calm and collected on offense.

You are a 190cm guard. What exactly is your role on the club?

My role is to be aggressive offensively, and be a defensive presence on the court.

Currently you are averaging 10,2ppg, 2,4rpg and 2,1apg. How would you summarize your season? What has been the most difficult thing to get adjusted to the style in the Pro B?

It has been an interesting season, personally. I have never been injured before, and breaking my hand early in the season was a unique experience for me. Being integrated back into the team after that was a good learning experience. I still have a lot to learn from that, I am still trying to work through some details with shooting the ball because of it. All in all, my rookie season has been great for learning and improving. The most difficult thing that I have had to adjust to in Pro B is the 24 second shot clock. Moving the ball quickly and getting the best shot possible takes precision and quickness.

How important has veteran Kristof Schwarz been for your rookie season? Is it his experience and game intelligence that has helped you most?

Absolutely. He has helped me more than I can explain, on and off the court. From day one he has been giving me advice and coaching me on the court. I will never forget some of the things he has taught me, and I am super thankful that he is the leader of our team.

You had the number of Schwelm this season scoring 20 points this season in both games. Were those your two best games as a professional so far?

Those were my best shooting games as a professional for sure. I have had other games where I played better defense and got more assists. I am still working and hoping for a game where I play the best game in all areas.

How would you describe your relationship to head coach Matthias Grothe? How has he helped shape your game and make the transition from school to pro easier?

I would describe my relationship with Coach Matthias as very good. It is also difficult to explain how much he has helped me and taught me already, this season. He is extremely smart, and is able to approach the game from so many different angles. He has helped me to see things about my game that I never saw before, and never stops challenging me to be better.

You had an illustrious three year career at Colorado Christian winning the Division 2 title. The season had it´s ups and downs. When you look back at the season what was the defining moment where you knew that this team could be special?

It was actually before we even started playing basketball. We went to a place called Camp Barnabas in Missouri before the season. And we developed a bond that was unbreakable. My teammates from college will be my friends for life, and I love them dearly.

Colorado Christina beat Dallas Baptist University 77-71 for the Division 2 title and you added 11 points. What memory during the game still stands out for you today that you just can´t forget?

I will never forget how hard my teammates fought. I actually played a very bad game, but my team played outstanding. They had my back.

How special was it having teammates like Zach McLemore and Wayne McCullough? What were you able to take with you to Germany from their play on the court and how they were off the court?

Both Wayne and Zach are very talented players. They helped me develop into the player I am now, and taught me how to be a competitor. Off the court, we are like brothers.

How did head coach Kevin Lubbers groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Coach Lubbers prepared me as a human being. He taught me so much about toughness, and mentality. He instilled a confidence in me with my three point shot that I had never had before. He provided faith and confidence while at the same time a constructive criticism that demanded humbleness.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Andrew Squiers?

I believe we only played one on one once. He was the best defender on our team, but I snuck away with a win.

You live in a very beautiful area of Germany where you have many classic cities around you as well as 2 hour drives to Holland and Belgium. What place in your vicinity of Iserlohn has given you the most joy this season?

Probably Düsseldorf or Dortmund. My wife and I have visited both numerous times. My family traveled out here during Christmas, and we particularly enjoyed the Dortmund Christmas market.

Recently ESPN ranked the top 100 NBA players of all time putting Lebron at #3 before legends like Larry Bird, Bill Russell and Magic Johnson. Do you feel this is justified?

These questions are always so difficult. There is no question that Lebron is a better athlete than all three of the players you mentioned. He has already had an extremely successful career, and yet he still has a long time left to play. When factoring in the future that he still has, I believe ranking him above those legends is justified.

Has Matthias Grothe ever taken inspiration from this locker room talk from 2010 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LH8IskMmDwM? He and your teammate Kristof Schwarz were in this locker room and took it all in. lol

 Lol, I don’t know if he has taken inspiration from it, but he has gotten pretty fired up at times. There have been times when we needed him to yell at us, and of course, he has no problem doing that when it is necessary lol.

 

Thanks Mike for the chat.

 

Darius Theus is a 25 year old 190cm point guard from Portsmouth, Virginia playing his second professional season and first with Rent4Office. He started his basketball career in 2009 with VCU (NCAA) where he played until 2013 playing a total of 145 NCAA games. As a senior he played 34 games averaging 6.6ppg, 1.8rpg, 4.9apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 68.4%. In 2013-2014 he started his professional career with Aris Leeuwarden (Holland-Eredivisie) playing 37 games: Score-2(16.6ppg), 2.8rpg, Assists-2(5.4apg), Steals-1(3.1spg), FGP-1(63.6%), 3PT: 26.0%, FT: 76.5%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

Darius thanks for talking to German Hoops. How blessed are you to be able to be playing the game you love despite having the uncertainty if you would play again concerning your injury last season and then leaving Vechta and coming home for personal reasons?

I am truly blessed to be playing again, not because I was injured, just a decision I decided to take for myself. I really appreciate Vechta for giving me my first opportunity to get back and play. Then I was very blessed that Rent4Office gave me another chance. That was nothing but God’s work.

Last weekend Rent4Office split the weekend series getting clobbered by Gotha where the team put up only 48 points and then beat Chemnitz 89-84. How proud are you of the team to bounce back like that after the miserable loss?

That win against Chemntiz was huge for us after a rough lost against Gotha. Good response for us at home with the crowd behind us. We showed a lot of character after that rough lost.

You have been with the team now for three months and have seen what the club is capable of. I think the team has a lot of fire power and could easily average 80 plus points a game, but the team averages only 74 points. Is the offensive potential not reached yet?

It’s so much potential not just offensively that I believe we haven’t reach ours yet. We have a few young guys and we also have new guys. There are so many special things this team can do. I hope we can put it all together at the right time and make a good run.

Rent4office are in seventh place and have a nice two win cushion on the eight place team as four other teams are competiting for that last playoff spot. What is the main regular season goal at this point besides finishing strong into the playoffs?

Our main goal right now it’s to of course finish strong and make the playoffs. Also, continue to grow as a team and become more of a unit.

There are five Americans on the team, but how aware are the Americans how important the many young talented Germans are for the success of the team?

Our Germans play an important role in our success. All of those guys have great talent and bring something different to the team. We definitely need them in this run that we are trying to make.

How important is it that the club doesn´t have one superstar or a guy that is averaging 18ppg, but really a very strong group of guys from 1-12 where any guy can be top scorer on any given night?

It’s very important that we don’t just have one main scorer. So any night it could be anyone’s night. That’s what makes this team so special because 1-12 is very great players that any given night anyone can step up an make big plays for us.

You have two very young German teammates with Kevin Bright who was the leading rebounder at Vanderbilt the one season he played there and Mauricio Marin. Bright is older than Marin, but how much potential do these two guys have?

Bright and Marin both are special players to our success. Both bring something different to the team. They haven’t even reached their potential yet. Those guys will two great players very soon.

Lets talk a little about your role. You are a combo guard, but with Dorian Green on board, you also have been playing the two. Do you have a certain preference where you play?

I honestly don’t mind which position I’m in. Either I’m giving my all. Whatever coach and the team needs from me I just do my job to the best that I can. Give all the effort.

It seems like with the arrival of Green, your minutes have been shortened. How have you been able to deal with the less minutes?

I don’t pay too much attention to the less minutes. When I get on the floor I just give 100%. That’s all I can control is my effort every time I step on the floor.

You are a scoring guard that can score, but also fill up the stat sheet, but what do you feel is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?

I don’t have too many hidden things. I just work hard and take what the other team give me and just continue to work on my game every chance I get.

Head coach Ralph Junge is probably the best German coach that deals with young players. What experience has it been so far working with him and what have you learned in the short time so far?

Coach Ralph and also coach Will have helped me out a lot in my short time. Just learning the style of basketball that’s played in Germany. Simple things like timing and change of speed.

You started the season with SC Rasta Vechta before opting to go home for personal reasons. What kind of experience was it for you being a part of that organization for a short time?

That experience was different. I never wanted to leave a group of guys that I built a bond with in such a short time. Very difficult for me to do. But they understood and respected my situation I really appreciate the SC Rasta for that.

Did you notice in September that this was a special team that could go very far this season in the German Pro A?

I definitely knew RASTA could go as far as they could. That is a great team with two great coaches. That is a special group. I wish them nothing but the best. Those guys could definitely do something special there.

As a rookie in Europe you played in Holland for Aris Leeuwarden (Holland-Eredivisie) playing 37 games: Score-2(16.6ppg), 2.8rpg, Assists-2(5.4apg), Steals-1(3.1spg), FGP-1(63.6%), 3PT: 26.0%, FT: 76.5%. Did you expect your rookie season to go as well as it did when you first came to Europe?

I didn’t expect anything. I was just a young man out of college hungry for an opportunity. I was just blessed to be in a situation to where those things happen for me.

How disappointing was losing to Den Bosh in the semi-finals of the playoffs? They kept you in check limiting you to 18 points in both games.

Losing to Den Bosh was tough. They were a well coached team. We played knew it was going to be a fight. But that was a good series I feel.

 

What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Europe where you knew that you were very far away from home in Virginia?

The wake up call was the food I guess (haha). Timing (haha). But overall a great experience for me as a rookie.

You played at VCU from 2009-2013. You reached the NCAA Final 4 in 2011 with a team that later only produced one NBA player Troy Daniels. What made this team so special?

That year we went to the final four. We all just came together as one. No one cared at that very moment who got credit for anything. Our seniors lead the way with that. We all brought in coach smarts plan and we just really had it rolling.

You have credited Brandon Rozzell as like a brother at VCU. What would have been missing in your college career if he hadn´t been there?

Rozzel taught me a lot about toughness. Playing hard and playing with passion. W/o him at times helping me bring out that dog in me that we sometimes need on the court.

How important was playing behind Joey Rodriguez your first two years? In your junior season you were All-CAA All-Tournament MVP so you must of learned something in your first two years of school on the floor?

Joey was a great leader. Hands down one of the toughest guys I’ve ever met in my life. He just taught me simply how to lead a team and win games.

How did Shaka Smart groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Shaka groomed me into a man not just a basketball player. He taught me so much about life that basketball couldn’t teach me. W/o him I wouldn’t be the man or player I am, today.

You grew up in Portsmouth, Virginia. How often did you visit the Portsmouth invitational tournament to watch the next NBA players show their talent?

I grew up watching the PIT.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Troy Daniels?

Troy definitely won in 1on1. The guy never missed a shot (haha).

Recently ESPN named the 100 best NBA players of all time. Do you feel it was justified to have Lebron before legends like Bill Russell, Magic and Larry Bird?

Lebron a great player. He is definitely a legend in his era. But before magic and bird that’s not right (haha).

What was the last movie that you saw?

Last movie I saw was Ride Along 2.

 

Thanks Darius for the chat.

 

Parrish Brown is a 31 year old 185cm guard from Chicago Illinois playing his eighth professional season and first with Petrolina AEK Larnaca (Cyprus-Division A) after starting the season with KTP Basket Kotka (Finland-Korisliiga). He started his basketball career at Kennedy King community college and then played two years at Maryland (NCAA) from 2006-2008 playing a total of 60 NCAA games. He started his professional basketball career in 2008 in Germany with BG Suedpark Bochum (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 10 games: 26.8ppg. He then played in Mexico from 2008-2010 with Potros ITSON. He then played in Lithuania from 2011-2014 and then also gained experience in Georgia and last season played with MAFC Budapest (Hungary-A Division) playing 18 games averaging 18.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 75.0%. He spoke to German Hoops during the Eurocup playoff series against the Fraport Skyliners.

 

 

 

Parrish thanks for talking to German Hoops. Welcome back to Germany. You played your rookie season in Germany with BG Suedpark Bochum (Germany-Regionalliga). How thankful are you to have gotten your professional start in Germany?

You’re welcome. I am very thankful to have gotten the opportunity to start my career in Germany. It was a great experience with great people and I’ll never forget it.

Over the years you have played in Mexico, Lithuania, Hungry, Georgia and Finland. Did you ever make it back to Germany to visit? Do you have any ties still to Germany?

Actually I haven’t had time to come back to Germany only when I’m traveling to other countries. This is my first time back since playing for Bochum.

You have played in many countries and seen many different levels of basketball as well as cultures. What experience have you cherished most so far in your career?

I cherish each experience differently. I learned and experienced something in each country I have played in and met some wonderful people.

Your 31 years old and time is running out for you to win your first professional title. How hungry are you to get that first title this season as you have.

Haha yeah time is ticking. I’m very hungry to get this title this season. I think we have a great opportunity to do that here in Cyprus with AEK.

AEK currently is in first place with a record of 11-2 tied with Kernavos. What has been the secret to the success of the team?

We have here at AEK are a great group of guys with a lot of experience and we have a great coaching staff that prepares us how to play against our opponents. And we all have the same goal which is we want to win.

The club has 8 players 30 or older. How vital has the experience factor been for the team where you are right in the middle of it?

The experience is a great factor. Everyone understands the game and know how to play the game so it makes it easier to prepare for games.

In the last round of Europe Cup the team had a 3-3 record, but could easily have been 5-1. How bitter was losing the last 2 games by a combined total of 4 points?

Losing the last two games of the last round of FIBA was bitter in that we had opportunities to win the games and finish with a better record but unfortunately we couldn’t win those games but was still able to advance so we just learn from those mistakes in those games and try to do better this round.

Is AEK Larnaca a better team than what it´s record shows in Europe Cup play?

Yes I think AEK is a better team than what our Europe Cup record shows

What exactly is your role on the team. On a team that has many scoring options you are averaging 9,7ppg in the country league and 7,7ppg in Europe Cup play?

My role on the team is to control the game. Make sure the ball goes to the right person at the right time. To bring aggressiveness on both offense and defense.

How much of a thrill has it been playing with California native Brandon Bowman? Have you ever played with a guy that worked harder than him?

Bo is a great teammate, a hard-worker and a great person.

You now face the best team in Europe Cup play with the Fraport Skyliners who are 12-0. Do you see it as an advantage going in as the underdog as you have nothing to lose or will you have a different focus going in?

I don’t see it as an advantage or disadvantage. We’re just going go out there and play our game the way we have been playing.

The Fraport Skyliners are all about team and totally unselfish and defend very well. AEK also defend well in Europe cup. What kind of series can we await and what will be key to advancing?

Yes both clubs are tough defensively I guess we’ll have to wait and see the outcome of the series.

You played 2.5 seasons in Lithuania. What one experience will you never forget where you could clearly see how much this country lives for basketball?

One experience I would never forget about Lithuania is how passionate the fans are for basketball in that country. They’re really die hard fans.

What was your wake up call to being a rookie in 2007 when you were in Germany where you knew that you were very far away from home?

Make wake up call was when I first landed and I didn’t understand a word that was being said. I thought to myself you’re a long way from Chicago.

After your rookie season you went to Potros ITSON (Mexico-LNBP) for two years. Why did you make this move? Usually guys with strong Regio stats make the jump to a higher level in Germany. Did your good production give you added confidence going back to Europe?

To be honest I’m not sure. If I could do it over again I would have chose to come back and play in Germany at a higher level.

You played two seasons at Maryland(NCAA) and played with many talented guys like DJ Strawberry, Ekene Ibekwe, James Gist, Nik Caner-Medley or Grevis Vazquez. Why didn´t the team do damage in the NCAA then?

My senior year we lost in the second round of the tournament to a talented Butler team. We had high expectations to go far but unfortunately things didn’t go that way.

Which teammate had the biggest inspiration on you in your two seasons there? Possibly one of these guys with DJ Strawberry, Ekene Ibekwe, James Gist, Nik Caner-Medley or Grevis Vazquez?

Me and DJ was pretty close my two years at Maryland but I valued all those guys they helped me and showed me a lot my two years at Maryland.

Who was the best player that you battled head to head that made it to the NBA?

There are a lot of good players I have played against that made it to the NBA a few of them were my own teammates.

What is the state of Lebron James in 2016? When all is said and done will he be mentioned in the same breath as Michael Jordan?

To me Lebron is the best player in the NBA at the moment. He can dominate the game in many ways. No I don’t think Lebron and Jordan will be mentioned in the same breath. Jordan had that killer instinct and I don’t think Lebron will ever have.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Ride along 2

 

Thanks Parrish for the chat.

 

Dwayne Evans is a 24 year old 198cm forward playing his rookie season with the Gladiators Trier currently averaging 13,8ppg,7,8rpg and 2,5apg in the German Pro A. He started his basketball career with Bolingbrook, IL / Neuqua Valley in 2007 and as a senior averaged 16.9ppg, 12rpg, 3.2apg; 26-3 record; set school’s career rebounding record with 737 and finished second all-time in scoring with 1,122 points. He then played with St.Louis (NCAA) from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 34 games averaging 14.0ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 74.9%. He spoke to German Hoops after the successful weekend where the Gladiators Trier beat Kirchheim and Essen.

 

 

Dwayne thanks for talking to German Hoops. Congrats on the successful sweep weekend of beating Kirchheim and Essen. Did you guys learn something about how to win games within 48 hours through the tough experience from losing the other two double weekend games earlier in the season?

At this point in the season the guys are all really comfortable in their roles and know what is expected of them in crunch time. Thats been a big difference from the beginning of the season.

Did you ever realize that if you had won the other 4 games in the double weekend games earlier in the season against the RheinStars, SC Rasta Vechta, MLP Academics Heidelberg and Science City Jena that the team would be in second place now with 18 victories?

We don’t like to play “What If” games, as a team were just focused on these last 6 games and fighting for the best possible playoff position.

Since then you have lost only one more close game a week ago against Baunach. How have a the Gladiators Trier become a better crunch time team?

Like I said before, our guys now know exactly what is expected of them in the final quarter and where they should be on the court. We’ve had some big victories in tight games because guys 1-12 have stepped up in different ways.

In the 92-82 win against Kirchheim, fans show a fine offensive performance from both teams. Trier rebounded a lot better. Was that and the 36 point explosion by you key for the win?

Absolutely. It was one of our major points going into the game and ended up giving us a big advantage. Seeing the ball go through the net personally was awesome too.

In the second game on the weekend, Trier pulled out another win against the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen 87-69. How difficult was it preparing for this team in such a short time and then being able to defend so well again?

It was pretty tough, but were all professionals here and we went into the game knowing we needed another road win to keep pushing for playoff position.

Tre Bowman has scored in double figures in 19 of 23 games this season and Trier is the only team that has controlled him twice limiting him to 10 points. How key was it keeping him in check as when he is on, he fuels his team to get going?

We knew going into the game that he fuels their team on offense, so we sent 4 or 5 different guys at him throughout the game to give him different looks and it ended up wearing him out.

How proud are you of the team that it won two games over the weekend without Kwadzo Ahelegbe? Did you feel more pressure to have to do more things than the usual for success?

Obviously we can’t wait to have Kwadzo back but we showed that we have a team where the next guy is always ready to step up. We look to have him back next week but I think our reserves did an incredible job this weekend.

The Gladiators Trier now have a 14-11 record and in the playoff standings, but everything is very tight. The club is defending very consistently, but can the offense get more consistent?

No doubt, when were pushing the ball, exposing mismatches and knocking down open shots we are at our best and I think were getting more consistent in that.

You and Brandon Spearman continue to lead the team averaging combined 29 points per game. Does the fear ever come that the team has to depend on you too to much for carrying the scoring load?

I don’t see it as a problem because though were averaging those numbers, we’ve seen that anyone can step up on a given night and pick up the slack. Were just going to keep playing our game and remain aggressive.

You scored 58 points combined last weekend against Kirchheim and Essen. Was this your best weekend in your career? I have to remind you of your 93 point weekend against Charlotte, Butler and VCU.

I would have to say that weekend in the A 10 tournament was the best of my career, but doing this on a professional stage while getting two needed wins is pretty good too.

When you score 36 points in a game do you ever think for a second why isn´t possible for me to that on a regular basis?

For sure, I’m hoping it happens more often but I don’t plan on changing my game to try and score more points but it was a fun night.

You really have developed into the work horse for the Gladiators Trier. Besides winning, what part of your game do you enjoy the most?

I like just being able to do a little of everything out there on the court. Post up, dribble drives, shoot 3’s, assists and just being versatile over the course of the game keeps defenses on their toes and makes the games exciting as well.

You take a lot of pride on defense. What kind of goals do you set yourself on defense before entering the floor each game?

I just take it upon myself to shut my man down individually and disrupt whoever it is I’m guarding 1-5.

Now that the Super Bowl is history, do you focus on NCAA March Madness?

I haven’t kept up much with college basketball outside of checking up on my alma but ill probably tune in come tournament time.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The Big Short, probably the best movie I’ve seen in a while.

Thanks Dwayne for the chat.

 

 

Luke Loucks is a 25 year old 196cm guard from Clearwater, Florida playing his fourth professional season and first in Germany with the Hebeisen White Wings Hanau (Germany-ProA). He started his basketball career with Florida St. (NCAA) in 2008 where he played until 2012 playing a total of 136 NCAA games. He reached the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2011 and as a senior played 35 games averaging 7.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 70.8%. In 2012 he started his professional season with VEF Riga (Latvia-LBL): VTB League: 6 games: 1.5ppg; VTB United League: 6 games: 1.5ppg; Latvian LBL: 4 games: 1.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 5.3apg, in Jan.’13 moved to Forex Time Apollon (Cyprus-Division A) playing 11 games: 10.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 6.4apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 76.5%. In the 2013-2014 season he played with the Kangoeroes Basket Willebroek (Belgium-Ethias League): 26 games: 10.3ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-2(4.7apg), FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 77.9%. Last season he played with the t Erie Bay Hawks (D-League): 10 games: 4.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.4apg, in Feb.’15 moved back to Maine Red Claws (D-League): 9 games: 2.4ppg, 1.2rpg, 2.2apg. He spoke to German Hoops after the wins against Essen and Rhondorf.

 

 

Luke congrats on the successful double win weekend. How good does it feel to go through a whole weekend without any real basketball complaints?

Thank you, Miles. It’s always nice to talk to you and Eurobasket. It is also always nice to win ball games. Winning two games in less than three days is very satisfying for our club and our fans, especially as a newcomer to Pro A.

Congrats on the 98-76 win against the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen. How key was it keeping your composure as a team in the second half after the explosive 28-9 second quarter?

We knew Essen was a better team than their record shows. We beat them at their place a few weeks ago so we knew they would come to our place ready to battle and play physical. The second quarter we stepped up our defense and pressured Essen into a few turnovers and easy fast break points. The second half was more even but our defense, rebounding, and ball movement really made the difference.

When an offensive is working dishing out 22 assists and shooting 45% from the field and from outside, can one blame the 21 turnovers a bit more on an over anxious offense forcing a bit more than it really should?

We have a team full of unselfish players who usually enjoy making the extra pass for an easy shot. Sometimes this passing leads to some unnecessary and careless turnovers but we still feel that if we move the ball to create the best shot available this will help our offense be the most efficient for our roster. To quote Gregg Popovich on ball movement, “you move it or you die.”

In the second game of the weekend, you pulled out an important win on the road against Rhondorf. How proud are you of the team for withstanding a few runs by Rhondorf in the fourth quarter to preserve the win?

We knew going into Rhondorf after a short one day break from Friday’s Essen game would be difficult. It was not a pretty game but we made a few keys plays down the stretch that helped us sneak out of Rhondorf with a road win. I’ll take a sloppy win over a pretty loss any day of the week.

Was controlling the boards with hauling down 48 rebounds and keeping Sterling Carter in check key who went wild earlier in the season in Hanau for getting the win over 40 minutes?

I think both of those were key to our victory. The rebounding war is always important and we did a good job of securing a lot of long loose rebounds tonight. Carter was the main figure on our scouting report. He takes a lot of really tough shots and can make some really difficult shots over contested hands. Holding him to single digits is an attribute to our team defense and off the ball help. We must’ve had 4 or 5 guys guard him at different points of the game.

How key has it been for the team to realize that the club doesn´t have to fully rely on American Kruize Pinkins to carry the team as more and more contributors are surfacing game by game?

Kruize has done a really good job this year with his rebounding and activity around the hoop. He’s my rookie – he lives just a few doors down from my wife and I – so I always try to get in extra work with him before and after practice. He’s done a great job in his first season in Europe and will play for a long time if he can keep it up. Recently more guys have stepped up production on our team so a few roles have adjusted a little but I think it’s worked out really well for everyone.

The Hebeisen White Wings Hanau have 11 wins and one win away from the last playoff place. Three months ago the season looked bleak, but now very rosy. Despite wanting to stay in the league, are playoffs on your minds as the team is so close to being there?

Our club’s goal was always to stay in the league for the first season and have more lofty goals in the years to come. Obviously as competitive players we have our internal goals and we are well aware that the playoffs are within reach. We’ve dealt with a lot of injuries and bumps in the beginning of the season but I think we have stuck together and our coaches Simon Cote and Ryan Pannone have done a great job leading us along the way.

How important is it for the team to have many functioning parts instead of one or two guys averaging 16-17 points per game?

Our team doesn’t have an outstanding explosive scorer but we have eight or nine guys that can reach double digits on any given night. It’s been really important for our team to play together and be as efficient as possible. If it’s not a huge scoring night for some of our guys, they try to help the team with defense, assists, rebounds, or anything else to bring value to our team.

You averaged 13 points and five assists on the weekend. How far away are you from solid to very good in your opinion about your own performance?

I enjoy the five assists more than the 13 points as a point guard. I’m just glad we’ve been able to compete at a high level and turn the ship in the right direction for these last few games of the regular season.

Currently you are having your best scoring stretch of the season as you have scored in double figures in 4 straight games. Are you feeling more confident at the moment than you ever have this season with your game?

I am feeling more confident and finding a good shooting rhythm. This is just a reflection of the work we’ve been putting in outside of regular practices. Just an extra 20-30 minutes a day of shooting and extra work can go a long way and our coaches are always willing to come help us out when we want extra work.

Your defense also has picked up in the last weeks. Has your defense also been key for getting you going with your offense in the last weeks?

Miles Jackson-Cartwright, Till Joenke, and Chris Von Fintel do a tremendous job pressuring the ball and their activity on opposing guards is terrific. This makes it easier for me to read a few passing lanes and pick up a steal here and there to start the offense. Good defense always leads to better offense.

You also have taken more three pointers in the last 4 games than in any other 4 game stretch this season. Have you got the green light more just to shoot more or has it been more a result of what the defense has given you?

A mixture of both. I am and always will try to be a pass-first point guard. Recently the coaches have implored me to be more aggressive offensively and look for myself sometimes instead of always searching for the open man. This has made defenses not play the passing lanes so much as they respect my shot and it can open up some great opportunities for assists and easy dump offs to teammates.

You live in an area with many beautiful places. What place in the Rhein-main area has really taken to your heart since arriving in Hanau last September.

That’s tough to narrow it down to just one place. This region of the world is really unbelievably rich with history, beauty, and places to see within just a few hours drive on a day off. The castles and history along the Rhein River are awesome to see and unlike anything we have in America. My wife and I love to grab lunch in Frankfurt on a day off and enjoy a cappuccino at a few different cafes while walking around the city.

Recently ESPN made a poll of the 100 best NBA players of all time with Lebron at #3 before legends like Larry Bird, Bill Russell and Magic. Do you feel this as being justified?

It’s funny you asked. Our old Florida State teammates have a huge group chat and we’ve all been arguing these rankings for the past week. If Lebron retired today it would be tough to argue that he deserves to be ahead of Bird, Magic, and Russel… even with his four MVP’s. However, I’ve said for a while now that if Lebron continues his trajectory for a few more years he will go down as the number 2 player of all time behind MJ. His statistics are incredible in nearly every major category and he’s unlike anything we’ve seen before in the game of basketball in terms of athleticism, skill, power, and basketball IQ. He also has a worldwide following much like Jordan did with fans, endorsements, and popularity that helps increase the following of the NBA and the sport in general.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The Revenant.

 

Thanks Luke for the chat.