BBL

John Fulkerson´s(Dziki Warszawa) Philosophy Is To Focus On What Your Good At And The Other Things Will Come

Pic credit: Dziki Warszawa

John Fulkerson (206-F-1997, college: Tennessee) is a 27 year old 206cm forward from Tennessee playing his third professional season and first with Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL). He played his first 2 pro seasons with Stella Artois Leuven Bears (Belgium BNXT League) averaging 9.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.8%, 3PT: 10.0%, FT: 74.7% and last season averaged 11.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 61.9%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 61.1%. He began his basketball career with / Christ Presbyterian Academy. He then played at the University of Tennessee from 2016-2022 playing a total of 165 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against the Bamberg Baskets.

Thanks John for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you and what have you enjoyed most from the experience?

It has been a good, fun experience. The staff, my teammates and the fans are really enjoyable to be around. The competition is a good challenge. We play very respectable programs and we work to get better every day. What I have enjoyed the most is getting to play with the guys I do.

Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL) is in the middle of the pack in the Polish first division. What does the club have to do better in the next 2 months to reach the playoffs?

We have to play together as a team and work to get better every day.

Your playing Bamberg in the ENBL quarterfinals. Your still searching for your first pro chip. What kind of a series can we await?

It will be a very competitive and intense series.

Bamberg are the favorite on Paper. What will be key to getting by them and advancing?

We just have to play our game and limit them to one shot per possession. It will be important to take out their key strengths.

What has it been like sharing the court with Swedish national player Denzel Andersson. What have you appreciated most about his game?

Denzel is a great basketball player, but even better person. He is a great, genuine guy on and off the court. He’s very funny and personable.

How valuable has a guy like Mateusz Bartosz been for your game? He is 37 years old and has much experience. How has he helped your game most in practice?

He has helped my game tremendously. He is always talking to me about how to improve upon different things, and how to approach different things that teams are doing. It is awesome having someone like him around and being able to pick his brain.

You’re a 206cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

Domantas Sabonis

You’re a guy that can score and rebound. What other strengths does your game have?

My philosophy is to focus on what you’re good at and let the other things come.

You don´t take many three´s. Is incorporating a three into your game of high priority for you?

Yes, I worked hard in between seasons to get my three to the place where it can be incorporated. I am always trying to expand my game.

How would you classify yourself as a defender right now? What kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I want to be the kind of defender my teammates can rely on.

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

I am always trying to improve in all areas and be the best teammate I can be.

You played your first 2 seasons with Stella Artois Leuven Bears averaging 9.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.8%, 3PT: 10.0%, FT: 74.7% and 11.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 61.9%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 61.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

There wasn’t necessarily any wake up call, but was a pretty cool realization that playing basketball was my job now.

You lost a tough playoff series against Charleroi in your rookie season. How tough was losing game 1 83-82? Did that loss effect the team mentally?

It is always tough to lose by 1, 2, or 3 points because that means it was a 1 possession game. Thinking back, you always “could” have made 1 single play, made a shot or went harder on defense. You always have to stay tough mentally though.

You played at the University of Tennessee (NCAA) from 2016-2022 playing a total of 165 games. You played 6 seasons there and reached 4 March Madnesses. Were these some of the best times in your life?

Absolutely. Playing basketball for the University of Tennessee was a dream come true for a kid from Tennessee. Those 6 years were some of the best.

In the 19-20 season you had your personal best season, but didn´t reach the NCAA tournament. You beat Kentucky again coming back from 17 points down and scored 27 points being the best player on the court with the likes of future NBA guys like Tyrese Maxey and Immanuel Quickly. Was this one of your fondest moments in the NCAA?

Yes, the Kentucky game is one that will live with me forever. It was a huge win for the program, and our team really came together for a big win against a tough opponent.

You played in 4 NCAA tournaments. Which run was the sweetest?

They were all very memorable. Each tournament holds different memories and opponents. You truly never know what can happen during March Madness.

In your second season you helped beat Kentucky and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had only 3 points. If someone would of told you then that this guy would be a top 5 NBA player in 2025 what would you have thought?

I could have seen it. SGA has definitely expanded his game but even back then, you could tell he was going to be special in the league.

You had so many incredible teammates and guys that reached the NBA. Which guy had the biggest impact on you? Possibly Grant Williams?

Definitely. Each of my former teammates had an impact on me in some way or another. I consider Grant one of my best friends. We were roommates during his time at Tennessee and really got to be there for one another through it all.

You were a fan favorite and fans called you the incredible Fulk. What was your coolest fan experience?

The coolest experience was when all of the arena at Tennessee was chanting my name.

How did head coach Rick Barnes groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Barnes demanded the best out of you every single day and held you to a very high standard. He really wants to shape you into a good basketball player, but a good person above all else.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Kyle Alexander?

Kyle probably

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

Bam Adebayo was the toughest player I have ever played against. I played him during high school.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I had too many good teammates over 6 Years to only pick five of them.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Steph, Wilt, MJ

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

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

I have not seen it. I will have to watch it.

Thanks John for the chat.

 It Was A No Brainer For Danas Kazakevicius To Join The Dragons Rhondorf As Leon Bulic´s Said Danas You Have To Do It 

Danas Kazakevicius (207-PF-2005, agency: Highlight Athletes) is a 19 year old 206cm power forward from Lithuania playing his first season with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf currently averaging 11,9ppg, 8,2rpg, and 1,3apg. He came to Germany ín 2021 and played with the at Brose Bamberg / Troester Breitenguessb. U19 Team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 10,2ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 67.6%. In 2022-2023 he continued to paly with the Brose Bamberg / Troester Breitenguessb. U19 Team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 10.8ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 59.0%, FT: 75.5% and also played with BBC Coburg averaging 3,4ppg and 2,4rpg. Last season his roles grew with BBC Coburg (Germany-ProB) averaging 7.6ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP-3 (70.6%), FT: 79.2% and with Brose Bamberg / Troester Breitenguessb. U19 Team (Germany-NBBL) averaged 21.7ppg, Reb-5 (9.7rpg), 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 66.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Danas for talking to germanhoops.com.. Did you sense a winning culture mentality when you arrived in 2024?

Yes I did. Many guys remained and they are hungry to win again. My goal is to win a title. First we win as much as possible in the regular season and then see what happens in the playoffs.

You came from a very well known program Bamberg to Rhondorf. It seems like a step back, but you don´t think it is. Why?

I really believe it´s not a step back, but a step forward. I want to keep improving my individual skills and think I can do it best in Rhondorf.

Ex Head coach Stephan Dohrn was very high on your qualities. What were the main reasons for signing with the Dragons Rhondorf?

I think the whole package fit for me. I like the communication between BBL team and Dragons as well as seeing how well the Dragons organization works and of course the great fan support.

How did the first talks go with coach Dohrn? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

I really like his mentality. For him the small details are very important. He always wants to make everything as perfect as possible. If anything is wrong, he always wants to explain and fix it. My playing style fits his coaching style.

Before we talk about your game, please talk a little about your childhood in Lithuania. Who were your basketball idols growing up?

Domantas Sabonas, Jonas Valanciunas and Kobe Bryant

How vital were the first years in Lithuania for your basketball? Was there a coach or person that influenced you the most?

I can´t name just one. There were many that influenced me and still help me with my game during the summers.

You came to the Bamberg program in 2021. How did the contact come to Bamberg and why did you chose to go there?

A Bamberg coach saw me play in Lithuania and I was invited to a tryout. I was there 3-4 days and they liked my game.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 206cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

People compare me to Domantas Sabonis, but I´m a bit smaller.

You’re a big man that fills the stat sheet very well. Would you classify yourself as a classic modern day big man?

I´m not a typical big man, but play the 4/5 position. It really doesn´t matter if I play the 4/5, because in today´s game they do the same job.

You can do so much offensively and are very quick and mobile for 206cm. What do you think is your biggest strength on the court?

I´m a big man that likes to run the court and I like to pass the ball. I can pretty much do many things really well, but not one thing best.

You’re a very good rebounder. What do you still need to improve with your rebounding?

I need better timing and knowing where the ball will bounce off the rim. I can also improve boxing out and knowing where the ball will land.

You only attempted 4 three´s in the Pro B last season. Do you plan to implement your three more into your game?

I hope so. I have worked all summer on my three pointer. I have spoked to coach Stephan and they want to add my three to the game plan.

Do you feel like your defensive skills are still raw? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

You will have to ask coach what kind of a defender I am right now. In the future I want to be able to switch 1-5 and have no problems with mismatches. I want to become a very mobile defender.

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

I´m working on all areas of my game, but mostly on being able to make quicker decisions.

You came to Bamberg in 2021 and played NBBL. What do you remember being your wake up call to being in Germany where you knew that you were far away from home?

I was 15 years old when I came. The first months were tough. I was confused about how my life would work there. I was far from home and scared about the language problem. But after time, my teammates made me feel comfortable and it felt like a second home.

In 2021 you played in the U-17 World Cup and saw the massive talent Cooper Flag put up 5/6 stats in 17 minutes. What memories do you have from him them? He recently practiced with Team USA before the Olympics.

At that time, people were already talking about him. He was a silent boy and doing a lot of the dirty work on the court. It was nice to play him. He looks like he will be the #1 pick in the 2025 NBA draft.

In your second season and first with Coburg, you were teammates with Leon Bulic. How vital was he for you that season? How did he help you most to grow?

We were close. We had a type of bond in that he came from Croatia and I from Lithuania. We battled every day in practice. It was always difficult to paly against him. I surely annoyed him at times with my fouls and he complained. However we are still friends to this day. When I asked him if I should go to Rhondorf, he said Danas you have to do it.

Last season your game rose as in the Pro B you averaged 7.6ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP-3 (70.6%), FT: 79.2%, and in the NBBL with Bamberg averaged (21.7ppg), Reb-5 (9.7rpg), 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 66.3%. How did your game grow last season?

My game grew in the NBBL. I had a huge role in the NBBL while in the Pro B, I was a big fighting for minutes. When the NBBL season ended, I focused more on the Pro B and I was able to step up my game.

You had to incredible games against Rhondorf and FC Munich 2 scoring 25 points a piece and shooting combined 20/23. What game was better?

Well we did lose both games. I think my game against Rhondorf was the better game. I was playing against my old teammate Tyrese Blunt and a top team with Rhondorf.

Who is the toughest player that you ever played against in your life that reached the NBA?

There are too many to name. I played against many tough BBL players

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

All my teammates in the Bamberg youth teams.

What is your NBA and Euro Mount Rushmore?

Kobe, Jordan, Lebron, Doncic, Nowtzki

Paul and Marc Gasol, Guershon Yabusele, Rudy Fernandez

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe Bryant

Thanks Danas for the chat.

Jaylen Alston(Team Ehingen) Explodes Twice Continuing To Dominate The Pro B Scoring 92 points In 2 Games

Jaylen Alston (193-G, college: WSSU) is a 193cm guard from North Carolina playing his rookie season overseas in Germany with Pro B team Team Ehingen. He began his basketball career at Eastern Guilford high school. He then played a season at Gardner-Webb University (NCAA) and then played at Winston Salem State University and in his last 2 seasons averaged 11.6ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 74.5% and 18.1ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 26.1%, FT: 74.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the tough 97-81 loss to the Dragons Rhondorf.

Thanks Jaylen for talking to germanhoops.com. How did you spend the Fiba break?

I spent most of my Fiba break and just recovering watching some film and getting better. I was a little bit under the weather so I didn’t do much.

Ehingen suffered a tough 97-81 loss on the road to the Dragons Rhondorf. With what kind of a game plan did you go into that game?

We went into the game plan with the same energy from last game just try to scout and know the players we were going to be guarding and then also figured out a way to just give us a edge like we did the last time we played, but we just did not come out with the same results.

Rhondorf had the 24-20 advantage after 10 minutes. You scored your teams first 10 points. Is that the most points you have ever scored to start a game?

No, that’s not the most that I ever scored in the first quarter or beginning of a game.

In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf stepped it up on the offensive end scoring 36 points, but were still shaky on defense allowing 26 points. What was giving Ehingen the most problems on the defensive end?

I would say that our problem was understanding where we needed to help on the pick roll and just being on the close out too shooters because that surely gave them the edge when they were consistently making three-pointers

In the third quarter the Dragons Rhondorf only allowed 15 points and overall allowed only 35 points in the second quarter. What adjustments did the Dragons make?

I think they made the adjustment of trying to close off some of our plays that we run and just understanding our strengths of getting to the basket.

The Dragons Rhondorf finished the game strong. Was this one of those game where their experience really hurt Ehingen as a team?

I would not say that experience hurt us in this game. I would say honestly turnovers and rebounding was the reason behind us losing in my opinion.

The Dragons Rhondorf had an overall very strong game. It led the rebound battle and had 17 offensive rebounds, had 21 assists and only 10 turnovers. Are they a playoff team when they are playing that well?

I feel like any team is a playoff team when you’re playing with those kind of numbers so whether we do it or our opponent, does it that pretty much sums up who will win the game

Could Team Ehingen take anything positive from the loss? It did stick well with the Dragons under the boards losing only 39-37 and had 10 offensive rebounds?

We can definitely take a positive aspect from that loss and just knowing that we have to be better in certain areas. The rebound battle definitely was something out of our nature that we’ve been pretty good about the last couple games so I feel like we need to get back into knowing what works for us and getting rebounds. The second chance points is something that we need to take advantage of.

Team Ehingen only played 8 guys. How tough is it competing in general with so little experience? Does that give you added pressure to perform?

We actually ended up playing with nine guys, but it is tough to compete sometimes with guys who haven’t been in certain situations but that’s what it’s about getting them experience and learning from it so I don’t feel like there is any pressure it’s just guys that are older like me should be able to help them in the moment that way when we succeed, they can understand how to help themselves when I might not be around.

The team next plays Oberaching a tough and feisty team. Ehingen lost in November to them. What will be key to getting the win this time?

I think the key to winning this game will be getting back to what we do best and that is getting inside the lane, getting easy layups also rebounding the ball and limiting our turnovers to under 12 and if we do all of that, I feel like nobody can beat us

You scored 92 points back to back against the RheinStars and Dragons. How crazy, but amazing does that feel?

it doesn’t really feel too crazy just because I’ve been in situations where I have scored a large number of points in a long stretch, but I take it as something amazing because I know players don’t get to do this too often, but I also want to just move on to the next game because if we don’t win then none of my points matter.

Did you have a special feeling going into the game or did it just feel like another game?

Honestly, it just felt like another game. I really didn’t treat their team too much differently than anybody else. I simply try to just kill whoever is in my way.

Do you feel like that dunk to start the game gave you extra motivation?

I feel like the dunk set the tone to let them know that we were coming to play and that this was not going to be a game where they felt like they could push us over.

After you scored the team´s first 10 points, did that 50 point mark ever come into your mind?

I really did not know that I scored the first 10 points and 50 points never crossed my mind. I was just trying to make sure that we have more points than they have points, but the outcome did not turn out the way I wanted.

How much more self-confidence does this game give you? Does a back to back performance like this drive you forward to explode again in the next game?

This game doesn’t necessarily give me any more confidence. I already had high confidence in myself, I just play my role, no matter what it is or any given night so know what I’m capable of every time I step on the court but a performance like this especially in back-to-back games certainly gets the attention of others and they try harder to stop me and when they do it simply makes me want to just show who I really am and where I’m from because then they may understand that they ain’t just a regular game to me.

You shot better than in the game against the RheinStars. The only difference was that you didn´t get to the free throw line this time. Are you aware that 50 points could have been in your cards again?

Yes, I’m aware that I was close to 50 points, but I’m not too strung out on trying to accomplish individual goals. I’m more focused on team goals.

What was your favorite own basket of the game?

My favorite basket was the dunk I had in the first quarter just because like you said, it set the tone for the game

After scoring big points again, what does the situation look like with treating your teammates for something or will they treat you to something?

The situation just stays the same. My teammates always treat me well and are happy for me anytime I’m doing good and I always treat them the same and I’m happy for them anytime they’re doing good so nothing has changed. They just tried to encourage me to keep going and pushing further if it means getting the win

Where do you rate the 2025 NBA slam dunk contest dunk by Mac McClung?

I rate the dunk contest an eight out of 10 I just feel like Zach Levine and Aaron Gordon set the bar so high that it’s going be pretty hard to top either one of their performances.

Thanks Jaylen for the chat

Kelvin Omojola Knows That The Dragons Rhondorf Have The Talent For The Playoffs And Now Need To Come Together And Get It Done

Kelvin Omojola (183-G-1997, college: Northwest) is a 27year old 183cm point guard that is playing his fourth professional season and fourth in Germany and second with the Dragons Rhondorf helping them win the pro B title last season averaging 12.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-2 (6.1apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 79.5%. In 2022-2023 he played with PS Karlsruhe (Pro A) averaging 3,1ppg and as a rookie played with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (Germany-ProB) averaging 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 71.8%. He began his basketball career at Green Valley high school and then played at Red Deer (JUCO), Benedict College (NCAA2) averaging 9.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 66.7% and Northwest University (NAIA) averaging 7.4ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 62.1% and 13.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 54.2%, FT: 87.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 97-81 win over Team Ehingen.

Thanks Kelvin for talking to germanhoops.com. How did you spend the Fiba break?

Hey Miles, thank you for having me as always. The FIBA Break was very chill for me, I didn’t do too much. I stayed here in Bad Honnef just working out and enjoying the time off.

How vital was the Fiba Break for the Dragons Rhondorf. Did the team do some soul searching?

It was huge! It gave us some much needed rest and time off, while also getting a good amount of practices together with the entire team.

The loss in Speyer was very disappointing. Did the team have the feeling going into the Ehingen game that that can’t happen again?

Yes, we knew this game was a must win. We need to defend our home court and we want to make the playoffs. That started by us getting this win vs. Ehingen.

Congrats on the massive 97-81 win over Ehingen. With what kind of a game plan did you go into that game?

We knew we had to come out with high energy and intensity. The past few games we got out to terrible starts and dug ourselves huge holes. Trying to overcome a 15 point lead is extremely tough and gives you no room for error if you want to make a comeback. So getting out to a great start to set the tone for the game was our mindset and game plan.

Rhondorf had the 24-20 advantage after 10 minutes. Jaylin Alston scored the first 10 points., You guys must have been aware that he scored 47 points in the last game against the RheinStars. What was the game plan on him?

Yeah he’s a tough cover. He has an extremely high motor and is very athletic, so we knew it would take a team effort to defend him.

What made it most difficult to slow him down? Is he the definition of an incredible walking bucket?

He plays extremely hard and his motor is second to none. Those attributes along with his athleticism, you see why he’s a great scorer. You just have to be ready to guard him as a team in order to slow him down.

In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf stepped it up on the offensive end scoring 36 points, but were still shaky on defense allowing 26 points. What was giving the team the most problems on the defensive end?

Alston was the only issue. He had 27 at the half if I’m not mistaken, that’s too many points for anyone to have. Let alone in a half. We just have to be ready to box out, rebound, and protect the paint.

In the third quarter the Dragons Rhondorf only allowed 15 points and overall allowed only 35 points in the second half. What adjustments did the team make?

We just continued to trust not only the gameplay, but each other. We were flying around defensively, had excellent ball movement, crashed the glass on both ends.

The Dragons Rhondorf finished the game strong. How proud were you that the team had no let up down the stretch?

I loved it Miles, we kept playing until the buzzer said 0:00. We need to do that every game, no matter what the score is.

The team had an overall very strong game. It led the rebound battle and had 17 offensive rebounds, had 21 assists and only 10 turnovers. What was the team’s biggest strength on the night?

Our biggest strength on the night was our continuity. We played together and as a team for the entire game. From the starters to the second unit, everyone came in and played with high energy and focus.

The Dragons Rhondorf had 6 guys scoring in double figures. The balance was there. How in sync is the offense now at this crucial stage of the season?

Our offense is starting to come together Miles. We implemented some new concepts under Coach Marko which is helping our offense. We just need to keep building and get more adjusted to the new system.

Kenan Reinhart had one of his best games this season with 14 points in 13 minutes being very efficient. Is he slowly breaking out of his shell? It must be tough always getting up and down minutes?

Yes Kenan had a great game! He’s a really good player who has a ton of potential. He’s always confident and I love it. It’s definitely tough for any player but everyone goes through it throughout their basketball journey. It’s only going to make him a better player as time goes on.

How proud are you of Tim Smith rebounding the way he did after his goose egg in Speyer with 16 points. His dominant game isn’t there like in the first 2 months. Do you help him with self-confidence?

Tim is a great player, he doesn’t need any help with confidence. He is extremely skilled, athletic, elite shot maker, I can keep going. He’ll be playing in higher level leagues very, very soon.

Antomio Pilipovic also had a solid game after a few tough games where he didn’t score in double figures. How has he grown in general as a person now having that double function as player and boss in the Dragons office?

Yeah AP is balancing the GM position and player position very well. He’s definitely grown as a leader, but he’s still the same AP which is great.

You had a strong game with 14 points, 5 rebounds and 8 dimes. How content were you with your effort despite 2 turnovers?

I loved how I played. I’m not even concerned about the stats but I loved how my energy and intensity was from the beginning of the game. I wanted to make an impact defensively and help us start the game strong.

Your minutes have been down a bit in the last months, but you had another 30 minute game. How is your relationship with new head coach Marko Zarkovic?

It’s good! Coach Marko is a great guy, professional, and I’ve really enjoyed being able to work with him. He’s doing whatever it takes to help us win games and make the playoffs.

What is your biggest goal now as a player in the last 6 regular season games? Your leadership will be crucial for the team to reach the playoffs.

The biggest goal Miles is to defend our home court, and try and steal a few road games. We need to do this so we can get into the playoffs. We have the team to do so, we just need to go and execute it!

The club next plays top team Leitershofen that beat you 115-105 in OT. How excited are you to see Ferenc Gille again?

It’s going to be great to see Ferenc again! He’s such a great guy, I love Ferenc and I loved being his teammate last season. He was a major piece in us winning the championship last season. And of course, us winning a championship gives us a bond that we’ll always have!

The Dragons Rhondorf can’t be up and down, but need a great performance. How aware are you that a win could really change the season around?

I’m very aware Miles. We have the talent to do so, we just need to come together as a unit and get it done! We all want to make the playoffs and that’s our goal. One game at a time.

What will be key to beating top team leitershofen?

They have a great team this season, we need to continue to play together and come out with an energy/intensity that will set the tone for the game.

Where do you rate the 2025 NBA slam dunk dunk by Mac McClung?

Mac is an elite dunker, you can see why he’s won the contest 3 times in a row. But I hope next year we get the NBA stars in the contest like Zion, Ja, etc.

Thanks Kelvin for the chat.

The Hamburg Towers Guard Terror Led By Brae Ivey Overpowers The Frankfurt Skyliners In Overtime 84-78

With the Fiba break over, it was time for the Frankfurt Skyliners to get back down to business. There were was a little more than 2 months left in the season as Frankfurt was fighting to remain in the league. Frankfurt had a good 4 game cushion between last placed BG Goettingn, but they still wanted to finish the season strong and perhaps even go on a run with wins. They came into the game with the Hamburg Towers with added self-confidence as they still had their cup run in the back of their minds. They met Hamburg who had 3 wins more, but had a 2 game losing streak. On a mild Saturday night, this was a contest that displayed 2 teams where nobody team was going to lay down and die as both kept it close for the most part of the game. The Hamburg Towers guard terror of Ivey, Lottie and Stove combined for 50 points in the 45 minutes and when it counted most overpowered Frankfurt in overtime to seal their 9th win of the easyCredit BBL season. “ We didn´t start strong, but we always give ourselves a chance to win. We have grown this season in our faith to win. We always believe that we can win the fight. It always starts on defense. Our grit is our biggest strength and was tonight”, stressed Hamburg Tower guard Brae Ivey (187-PG-1997, college: SJSU, agency: LHZ Sport Agency). Frankfurt fought the whole game, but when it counted most in overtime, couldn´t execute and make the big plays to overcome Hamburg. “We defended very well, but we didn´t punish them enough when we could of. Our defense was the reason that we even reached overtime. We stuck together the whole game and made things tough for them”, stressed Frankfurt Skyliner Timo Lanmueller.

Jonathan Stove at the FT line

The Frankfurt Skyliners came out strong defensively, but the Hamburg Towers didn´t play with a high intensity and couldn´t match Frankfurt´s energy early on and didn´t move the ball well. Frankfurt took the rapid 10-3 lead as everything looked fabulous in their living room in the first 5 minutes of the game. Frankfurt were pushing the ball inside and got easy baskets from ex Alba Berlin big man Lorenz Brenneke and ex University of Texas (NCAA) forward Kamaka Hepa. They were also aggressive getting to the free throw line as ex Boston College forward Patrick Heckman added 4 points. Hamburg then got 2 easy baskets from ex MBC guard Jonathan Stove and 19 year old German big man Fabian Giessmann who came from TK Hannover as Frankfurt only led 12-7. However Frankfurt closed out the first quarter strong as Canadian David Muenkat scored and ex Trier guard Garai Zeeb connected on free throws for the commanding 17-9 advantage after 10 minutes. Frankfurt shot 31% from the field and 0% from outside and had 12 rebounds an d 2 turnovers while the Hamburg Towers shot 24% from the field and 0% from outside and had 12 rebounds and 4 turnovers. No three was falling as both teams were o/11 combined. “They didn´t do anything special on defense. We just didn´t hit shots. We missed like 3 wide open three´s and some easy layups”, stressed Brae Ivey.

Malik Parsons at the FT line

In the second quarter the Frankfurt Skyliners continued to have the comfortable lead, but the Hamburg Towers slowly began to execute better and play more as a team as they trailed only by 3 points at half-time. Ex Seton Hall (NCAA) guard Jordan Theodore and Stove traded buckets to start as Frankfurt led 19-11. However Frankfurt began to get sloppy taking care of the ball due partly to Hamburg´s more aggressive defense and began to chip away at Frankfurt´s lead going on a 11-4 run to suddenly only trail 25-22. In the run, Hamburg got good support from their guard terror and Ivey and ex Flager University (NCAA2) guard Jaizec Lottie scored on drives while ex University of Utah (NCAA) forward Kenneth Ogbe scored as did Giessmann again. Frankfurt´s defensive intensity had dipped a bit and their 1-1 defense as well. Frankfurt did maintain the slight lead going into the break at 29-26. Jordan Theodore who seemingly can always get a bucket on the drive due to his still available speed and finding his spots well did while Stove dropped a trey. “The Fiba break was a good time to shake off the rust and get our feel back. We warmed up in the second quarter”, stated Hamburg guard Brae Ivey. The Frankfurt Skyliners shot 30% from the field and 0% from the three point line and had 22 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Hamburg Towers shot 30% from the field and 11% from the three point line and had 22 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Brae Ivey from outside

The third quarter continued to be a battle where Frankfurt did lead by 5 points only to lose it again as Hamburg crept back and led by 1 point after 30 minutes. Brae Ivey who played JUCO ball at Riverside City College and made it to the ACB in Spain played superb on ball defense in the first seconds to steal the ball from ex Euroleague guard Jordan Theodore and went on transition for the easy basket, but Frankfurt still led 29-28. Frankfurt then got much needed input from new guard Marcus Domask who averaged 9,0ppg in the G-League with Windy City added 5 points including a trey giving Frankfurt the 34-29 advantage. However Frankfurt didn´t get any breathing room as Hamburg just kept supplying the guard terror. Domask did deliver another bomb from outside, but Brae Ivey just stayed focused and added 5 points to dead lock the game at 39-39. Ivey´s great ball handling and quickness always gave him advantages over the Frankfurt defense and he executed the way an ex ACB player should. Hamburg then took control of the game as now it was Lottie´s opportunity as he nailed 2 three´s. Frankfurt stayed strong punching back as ex Artland Dragon Jacob Knauf scored with a lay in and Heckman netted a trey. Then 208cm center kur Kuath who hails from South Sudan and played at Marquette (NCAA) made a massive alley-oop dunk as Lottie served up the dime. “We see Kur do that 1-2 times a game. He is our lob guy. That was a nice dunk”, said Brae Ivey. Giessmann added a lay in and ex Northwestern Oklahoma State University (NCAA2) guard Malik Parsons added free throws as the Hamburg Towers led 49-48. “It was tough going back and forth. You just wanted to break through that wall”, added Brae Ivey. “We kept punching back. But it was difficult to stop their guards. They are all 3 level scorers. They kept us on our toes all night long”, stressed Timo Lanmueller.

Jordan Theodore to the rim

In the fourth quarter the battling back and forth continued as the Hamburg Towers kept their noses slightly ahead as Frankfurt continued to stay with them. Parsons could have won the game, but he was 2 seconds to late to getting the basket. Hamburg came out strong getting that continued fine effort from the guard terror as Lottie and Stove connected for the 54-50 advantage. But Frankfurt always had an answer as Hepa contributed 4 points and Frankfurt trailed only 54-52. Frankfurt then found some instant energy going on a swift 6-0 run as Domask and Einaras Tubutis let it rain three´s as Frankfurt snatched the lead back 59-58. But that was only momentarily as Hamburg went on a 6-1 run to lead 64-60. Ivey and Stove as usual scored with off balance treats that never look easy, while ex University of Missouri (NCAA) guard Jordan Barrett also joined the guard terror party with a fine floater. The mini runs continued to go back and forth as walking bucket and scoring in bunches master Malik Parson took matters into his own hands and scored 7 unanswered points including a trey for the 67-66 Frankfurt lead with less than a minute remaining. But Hamburg had nerves of steel as despite being in a different hostile living room, they always had an answer. Ivey dropped a clutch trey for the 69-67 lead with 19 seconds remaining. Instead of going for the three to win, Frankfurt decided to go for 2 as Theodore scored to tie the game at 69-69. Hamburg had one last chance, but Brae Ivey slipped and lost the ball, but Parsons got it to late as he sped over center court as time ran out before his shot was taken. “Going into overtime like that was tough for us. I slipped on the play and lost the ball. I thought the refs had done a good job in the game. That was my mistake. You live and learn from that”, expressed Brae Ivey. “We could of won. They had some luck with 50/50 balls and rebounds, but we fought together and never gave up”, said Timo Lanmueller. Frankfurt shot 38% from the field and 25% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Hamburg Towers shot 41% from the field and 28% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 13 turnovers.

Einaras Tubutis from downtown

In the overtime period, both teams took good care of the ball suffering no turnovers and punched back in the first possessions, but the Hamburg Towers then took control and never looked back making the plays while Frankfurt didn´t. German Osaro Rich who once played with medi Bayreuth and Tubutis traded baskets as the game was tied 71-71. Parsons then made a runner, but Kuath made another big dunk to dead lock the game at 73-73. Hamburg then decided the game with a ruthless 6-2 run to lead 81-75 and never looked back. Ivey who could plaster “clutch shot” on his forehead and nobody would disagree hit a three pointer while Rich and Lottie scored on drives. The arena got quieter except for the Towers bench that could slowly smell victory. Jordan Theodore added a big rainbow three pointer to cut the lead down to 81-78 with 58 seconds remaining. However Hamburg added a free throw by Stove to get that vital 4 point cushion. Theodore then missed a shot and Ivey iced the win with free throws. “We just made the plays. In a situation like OT, it doesn´t come down to tactics anymore, but the best players just have to make plays. I´m blessed that we have teammates that have trust in myself and others to take these shots”, said Brae Ivey. “Ivey and Lotte punished us hitting tough shots. We didn´t defend as well as we should of”, stated Timo Lanmueller. The Hamburg Towers were led by Brae Ivey with 18 points while Jonathan Stove added 17 points and Jaizec Lottie 15 points while the Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Malik parson with 15 points while Marcus Domask had 12 points and Jordan Theodore 11 points and 6 assists. The Hamburg Towers shot 44% from the field and 31% from outside and had 47 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 39% from the field and 25 % from outside and had 38 rebounds and 13 turnovers.

BBC Coburg Sweep Season Series Beating The Skyliners Juniors On The Road 88-76

With March having arrived, the Pro B south playoff race is in high gear and very exciting. There was only 1 game difference in wins from position 11 to 5. The German Pro B had been on a little 2 week break because of the Fiba window. The Skyliners Juniors came into the game sporting a 10-9 record. They had been playing good ball as of late having won 3 of 4 games, but entered the break on a sour note as they lost 86-81 in Wurzburg. No opponent in the Pro B is a cake walk as they faced 9-10 team Coburg who is the farm team of easyCredit BBL team Bamberg. They came into the game up and down having lost 2 of their 3 last games. However they were tough on the road having a 5-4 record. Like Frankfurt, they were a club with many talented young Germans as well as a dominant import with American Zach Hinton. On a mild March afternoon, the Skyliners Juniors came out and were able to stay with BBC Coburg in the first half, but a rough 12-0 run by the guests in the third quarter paved the way for them as Frankfurt couldn´t recover and lost 88-76. In the second half, BBC Coburg adjusted well and Frankfurt just couldn´t get over the hump. “We didn´t defend well in the game. Our communication wasn´t good either and we weren´t all on the same page. We didn´t execute the way we should of at both ends on the court”, stressed Skyliner Junior Chuku Chukwuma. The energy of BBC Coburg played a big role in the win. “We played together and with a lot of energy. They came out strong, but once we were able to match their energy and get the lead in the second half, we kept it. We really locked down on defense. We switched a lot when Kordel was on the bench. Our help defense was good, but all in all, it was our energy that was the difference”, stressed BBC Coburg forward Zach Hinton.

Ben Diederichs at the FT line

Both teams began with a bang as 205cm big man Ben Diederichs (205-SF-2005) made a massive dunk on transition and ex Iserlohn center Malik Kordel stepped it up with a thunderous alley-oop dunk. “Malik is 216cm. That is what he does. He is a big danger on the pick and roll. He is almost always an automatic bucket. The team is learning to find him better on the pick and roll”, stated Florian Dietrich. Diederichs then dropped free throws and Joscha Zentgraf found Kordel for the lay in to tie the game at 4-4. Both teams had offensive rhythm and executing and punched back and forth. Norway native Tobias Rotegaard who was the teammate of current NBA player Cam Thomas at Oak Hill academy hit a trey as did 2023 JBBL finalist Ivan Crnjak to dead lock the game at 9-9. The Skyliners Juniors then took advantage of some sloppy play of BBC Coburg and turnovers led to back to back baskets by ex Hanau forward Fabian Baumgarten for the 15-11 Frankfurt advantage. Chukwuma and young talent Jamie Edoka also scored for the 20-15 lead. Ex Breitengussbach guard Marlon Stephan added a clutch three pointer, but Malik Kordel set an exclamation point on the first quarter with another hard dunk for the 22-18 lead after 10 minutes. The Skyliners Juniors shot 53% from the field and 33% from outside and had 12 rebounds and 6 turnovers while BBC Coburg shot 35% from the field and 29% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Dusan Nikolic to the hole

In the second quarter the Skyliners Juniors managed the lead well for some minutes but BBC Coburg never stopped fighting and got the lead the led back and led by 5 points at the break. Ivan Crnjak gave the Skyliners Juniors instant energy with consecutive three´s, but BBC Coburg punched back with a Diederichs lay in and Stephan trey, but Frankfurt still led 28-23. However BBC Coburg kept attacking the paint and executed well on the side pick and roll as Diederichs scored twice and Rotegaard scored getting the pretty pass from Nico Wenzl to dead lock the game at 30-30. Frankfurt then went on a 5-0 run as Chukwuma nailed a trey and Edoka made a lay in. However BBC Coburg stormed back closing out the second quarter in strong fashion romping all over Frankfurt with a 18-8 run to lead 48-43 at half-time. In the run, it was Tobias Rotegaard that led the charge with 10 points and 3 three´s while Austrian Nico Hollerl scored while Abdelkahar Karioui scored twice showcasing his athleticism and quickness. BBC Coburg took advantage of Kordel being on the bench and switched everything and just executed well and played nice inside out basketball while Frankfurt were sloppy at both ends. BBC Coburg shot 55% from the field and 54% from the three point line and had 15 rebounds and 9 turnovers while the Skyliners juniors shot 50% from the field and 44% from the three point line and had 18 rebounds and 9 turnovers. “The three pointer and one and another three pointer by Rotegaard hurt us badly. They did a good job switching on us when Kordel was on the bench. Chukwuma kept us in the game. He usually had shown us his good shooting, but today he showed how athletic he was”, stated Florian Dietrich.

Nico Wenzl from outside

The turning point of the contest came in the third quarter. Despite a great start for the Skyliners Juniors, they couldn´t keep the momentum as BBC Coburg punched back with a bigger run and never looked back managing the lead until the end. The Skyliners Juniors stepped up the defense securing 5 stops and scored 4 times to get the 51-48 lead. In the run, Frankfurt attacked the rim as Jamie Edoka made a 10 footer and lay in, while Chukwuma scored inside and Kordel made another dunk. However Frankfurt couldn´t keep the intensity and allowed a brutal 12-0 run to give BBC Coburg the 60-51 advantage. In the run, BBC Coburg began with back to back lay in´s from Nate Hinton who was a beast on the defensive rebound, while Rotegaard hit a 20 footer and Nico Wenzl connected on back to back three pointers. Frankfurt stopped the BBC Coburg run with back to back buckets from Chukwuma and Dusan Nikolic, but BBC Coburg punched back with a three pointer by role player Sean Ludwig and another Hinton lay in as BBC Coburg led 65-57 after 3 quarters. “We got the momentum in our run. We were able to match their energy. We knew how important this game for us were and were able to make the needed defensive adjustments”, added Nate Hinton. “We didn´t play well in that 12-0 run. We simply lost our focus”, commented Chuko Chukwuma. BBC Coburg shot 50% from the field and 50% from the parking lot and had 27 rebounds and 14 turnovers while the Skyliners juniors shot 45% from the field and 29% from the parking lot and had 25 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

Chuko Chukwuma at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the Skyliners Juniors executed well on offense, but couldn´t string along many defensive stops. They were able to cut the BBC Coburg lead down to 4, but that was as close as they would get as the guests finished the game strong. Dusan Nikolic was a walking bucket in the first minutes as he led the Skyliners Juniors on a 9-5 run to trail BBC Coburg only 70-66. Nikolic scored all 9 points starting with a nice dunk on transition, lay in, free throws and three pointer. However BBC Coburg then decided the game with a 9-2 run to extend their lead to 79-68. In the run, BBC Coburg got a trey by Rotegaard and they did a good job getting to the free throw line as Hinton and Rotegaard scored. Diederichs also scored. Malik Kordel had been hit with his fifth foul at the start of the run opening up the paint area for BBC Coburg. Nikolic continued to be in attack mode and used that unique combination of athleticism and swiftness and scored a lay in and made free throws, but Frankfurt couldn´t get over the hump. BBC Coburg continued to execute well on offense as Diederichs scored 2 more times inside and Hinton made a hard dunk to seal the win. “I´m really proud of the guys. Everybody stepped up. We never backed down. Guys that usually don’t get many minutes stepped up in big minutes. We executed well at the end getting the needed stops”, stressed Nate Hinton. “They switched everything on us forcing us to 1-1 and we didn´t move the ball”, stressed Chuko Chukwuma. BBC Coburg was led by Ben Diederichs with 24 points while Tobias Rotegaard added 21 points and Zach Hinton had 11 points while the Skyliners Juniors were led by Dusan Nikolic with 21 points while Chuko Chukwuma added 20 points and Jamie Edoka had 12 points. BBC Coburg shot 52% from the field and 44% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 17 turnovers while the Skyliners juniors shot 46% from the field and 28% from outside and had 32 rebounds and 12 turnovers.

Avery Sullivan Helps Lahti Score 201 Points, Achieve First Triple Double In Career And Shoots For Another Title

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Avery Sullivan in Rhondorf in 2023

Avery Sullivan (203-F/C-1999, college: Lamar) is a 24 year old 203cm center from Texas that is playing this season with Lahti Basketball (Finland-Korisliiga) currently averaging 20,6ppg, 10,8rpg4,3apg, 2,6spg and 1,3bpg. Last season he played with the Dragons Rhondorf averaging 13.7ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 60.1%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 70.2% and helped them win the Pro B title. In 2022-2023 he played with KB Teuta Durres (Albania-Superliga) averaging 16.0ppg, Reb-3 (11.0rpg), 1.6apg, 1.5spg, Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 70.5%. He played his rookie season with at Depiro Rabat Imtarfa (Malta-BOV League D1). He began his basketball career with Pflugerville High School and then played 4 seasons and 102 NCAA games at Lamar averaging 12.3ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 50.2%, FT: 74.0% and in his senior year averaged 9.8ppg, 7.2rpg, FGP: 44.3%, FT: 77.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball

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

I am currently playing in Lahti, Finland not too far from where you last saw me. I would say basketball life is treating me very well at the moment, I couldn’t ask for much more.

You’re playing your first season in Finland with Lahti Basketball (Finland-Korisliiga). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

Overal it’s been nothing short of great! One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about this new experience would have to be their fan base and overall community engagement.

The winters weren’t that rough in Germany, but how is Finland? Is it tough for a Texas native to get through the winter?

Honestly, when I first signed I was really worried about the winter here in Finland because in Texas we very rarely get snow. When the time came it wasn’t as bad as I had anticipated. Don’t get me wrong it was still very cold and unusual for me as a true Texan, but I enjoyed seeing the snow.

I mean you won titles in Albania and one in Germany and now you’re currently 19-0. Can one say that you’re infectious with winning?

I guess some could say that. I, however, just enjoy the feeling of playing each and every game I’m able to. I love the competition of it all.

The team is unbeaten. How does that feel? Does every new game become more difficult because every team is shooting for you?

Winning is always a great feeling, because at the beginning of every season it’s definitely my number one goal to try and win each game played. I would say the pressure from other teams has increased as we move on in the season due to our undefeated streak. It adds more of a target/incentive for other teams to beat us.

The team seems to be very special. It can score a lot, almost averaging 100 per game and gives up only 73 points. What is the team’s biggest strength?

Our biggest strength is everyone’s selflessness and willingness to pass. We love to play in transition to create dunk opportunities and open 3’s.

You won a game 201-54. When I read that I thought WTF? What memories do you have of that game?

The memory that stands out to me the most during that game is feeling accomplished in what I was playing for. Although it was a very high scoring game, it was more meaningful to underfunded youth sports, and every point scored meant 10 euros to support those children.

You had a triple double of 53/20/11. Were you superman on this day? How quick did you know that you could have an exceptional game?

Again I wasn’t necessarily playing for the stats but overall just wanted to do everything I could in that game to up the amount for charity.

Was this your first triple double in your career? What were you most proud of this from your own game?

Yes this was my first ever triple double. I think overall my self-assessment from that game would have been happy in how I passed the ball and was able to work fluidly with my teammates.

Did you get any cool messages after achieving that triple double from around the world? What about from your ex Dragon’s teammates?

Yes. A lot of my friends who play in Europe had sent texts asking if what they were seeing was real life? My ex-dragon teammates sent the score from that game in our old group chat which led to an in-depth discussion and an analysis of the game. There was definitely a lot of jokes from my ex Dragon’s teammates on why I didn’t do that last year.

What is it like playing with Lue Williams? He also had 50 plus points in the 201 points win. What do you appreciate most about his game?

It’s definitely a blessing to play alongside someone like Lue who is able to compete on both ends of the court. Lue’s willingness to take on the biggest defensive assignment every game is one of the things I appreciate of him.

Did you and him have to get the team dinner after the 201 point win or did they do something for you both?

No. We did end up having a team sauna night after the game.

Do you ever kid Lue about his name and annoy him with Lou Williams?

I did early on in the season, but over time the joke kind of faded.

14. Let’s talk about your game. You’re averaging 20/10/4 in 30 minutes. Last season you had many scoring options. Are you the main go to guy this season?

I wouldn’t say I’m the main go to all the time, but I try to make myself as open as possible to give people that outlet when needed.

15. This season you’re averaging 20/10/4 in 30 minutes and last season in Rhondorf you averaged 13/9/1 in 2 minutes less. That is an incredible jump. How has your game grown this season?

I believe I’m starting to read the floor better and recognize situations sooner than before.

You’re making 1.3 spg and almost 3.0 blocks per game in Finland. You improved your defensive game already last season, but how have you seen it develop further in Finland?

I think me paying more attention to detail and the patterns in the people I’m guarding has helped me further develop my defensive game.

You obviously want to win that next chip, but how else do you want to continue to improve your game this season?

The 2 areas I want to see the most improvement are shooting the 3 ball more consistently and better decision making.

The Dragons Rhondorf aren’t having the kind of season like last year fighting for the playoffs. Do you follow their progress?

Yes, I follow them weekly. I try to catch as many games as I can when they’re on. I will occasionally re-watch the game later if I miss it and don’t talk to the guys first.

Do you still have contact with your ex Dragon teammates? Is there one guy that sticks out most with whom you have contact with?

I still talk to most of the guys. I would say Kelvin sticks out to me the most as he was and still is a close friend of mine.

Where do you rank the Mac McClung dunk in the NBAs all-time best dunks?

Top 5.

Thanks Avery Sullivan

Braden Norris Is One Of Those Rare Point Guards That Is Pass First But Can Shoot Out The Lights

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Braden Norris in Koblenz 2024

Braden Norris (183-PG-1999, college: Loyola, IL) is a 25 year old 183cm point guard from Ohio playing his rookie season overseas with the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (Germany-ProA) currently averaging 14,0ppg, 2,7rpg, 4,0apg shooting 37% from outside. He began his basketball career at Oakland University (NCAA) and then played 4 years at Loyola University of Chicago (NCAA) where he played a total of 126 games and won 2 MVC titles and reached the NCAA Sweet 16. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Braden for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season in Germany for the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (Germany-ProA). What has it been like coming from small Hilliard, Ohio to Kirchheim? Kirchheim has about 5000 more people living there.

To be honest it doesn’t feel much different at all. Hilliard actually feels bigger than Kirchheim even though it’s clearly not.

What has it been like living in Germany. What have you enjoyed most about the country Germany and it ´s culture?

It has been good so far it has been a shift of lifestyle, but I am enjoying the culture and life. I have enjoyed the more relaxed and slower lifestyle over here.

Your playing your rookie season with the Knights. What were the main reason for joining this ambitious organization? Did you talk with ex teammates Ryan Schwieger and Aher Uguak who have played in Germany before making the decision?

My main reasons were that I knew it was in a good location of the country, in a good league and I knew that coach Igor would put me in good positions to win and show what I can do on the court. I did talk to my former teammates before making the decision.

What has it been like playing for head coach Igor Perovic? What have you enjoyed most about his basketball philosophy?

I have really enjoyed playing for Igor thus far he has really good insight on the game, and he lets me play my game with a lot of freedom.

You won the first game over Giessen 92-73. The team showed it cans score a lot while defending with passion. Will defense be the team staple or three point shooting?

I think a combination of our three-point shooting and defense will be our best recipe for success.

What has it been like playing with James Graham. How much does he make your game easy?

Playing with James has been great whenever you play with a scorer like that, it frees up everyone else’s game.

What has it been like playing with Cam Henry. He told me you were the reason he signed in Kirccheim to be able to be teammates. You guys had real battles in the NCAA, but he totally respects your game. What do you like most about his game?

Playing with Cam has been great. I really respect how he approaches the game of basketball and how he sees the game. He is a very high IQ player that can do all things on the court. He is a great teammate that brings good energy to the gym every day. Most importantly he is a winner and has had a lot of success everywhere he has gone.

Talk about some of the battles you had with Cam Henry in the NCAA. You had his number 2-0.

Yeah Cam and I had a couple of good battles in college. He played for a really good coach in college so the games were always high level on both sides of the ball.

What has it been like being teammates with Lucas Mayer? How much pressure does he put off your game being another talented creator and shooter on your side?

Lucas has been great. He brings something we don´t have much on this team and that is high level speed on both sides of the ball. He is a smart player that can shoot the 3 and it is nice knowing I have him in the backcourt with me

Let ´s talk about your game. You’re a 183cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say I am similar to Colin Gilespie who played at Villanova and is now playing for the Nuggets I believe.

You shot an incredible 43% in the NCAA. How rare is it having a sniper as a point guard who is really a pass first point guard?

Yeah I think its pretty rare in these times of basketball. A lot of point guards are now playmakers for themselves and not so much running a team and putting guys in the right spot. I believe I can do a little bit of both of those things.

What are your goals as a three point shooter as a rookie? Do you feel pressure to be able to keep shooting at 40% at the pro level overseas?

Don’t really have any goals. I know that if I am doing my job and putting the work in then I should be around 40% but I´m not too focused on anything other than preparation to make the next shot.

You averaged 4,0apg in a 5 year NCAA career. What will be the biggest challenge for you to continue to grow as a playmaker?

I think it is just continuing to learn the game. Their isn´t a defensive coverage I haven´t seen so just being able to make quicker decisions will make things even easier as always.

Your also a solid defender. Talk a little about your defensive game and it ´s strengths?

I would say I´m more than just a solid defender. With my IQ and my communication I think it makes up for my lack of size and athleticism. If you watch me play I very rarely get beat off the dribble.

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

Continuing working on different shots in the paint and off the dribble.

You began your NCAA career at Oakland averaging 8.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 5.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 30.0%, 3PT: 49.0%, FT: 74.0%. What positives could you get out of that season?

The positives were proving to everyone that I am plenty good enough to play at that level.

You then transferred to Loyola University of Chicago (NCAA) winning the MVC title twice over Drake. Which one was sweeter?

They were both equally as sweet- winning never gets old.

You also played at 2 NCAA tournaments losing to Oregon State and Ohio State. What memories do you have of those runs?

Just being in those moments with my brothers. Those moments are what you work for as a player and to be able to share those moments with people you love is special.

How did head coach Drew Valentine groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I wouldn’t be in position without Drew. He pushed me to get to where I´m at and I´m forever grateful.

Who was the greatest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

RJ Barrett or Darius Garland.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Cam Krutwig, Lucas Williamson, Aher Uguak, Keith Clemons and Phil Alston.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, MJ, Steph and Shaq

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron

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

I did not see that.

Thanks Braden for the chat.

Tuukka Kotti Will Always Be Thankful For Gordon Herbert In Turning Around His Career And Getting Back To Working Hard And Focusing On The Right Things

One thing is for sure, I always knew that Gordon Herbert was an excellent coach. I mean I covered his Frankfurt Skyliners teams for more than a decade so I must know. I didn´t know in 2004 when he helped the Opel Skyliners win their first BBL title, but years later when he came back and continued to form winning Skyliner teams and help young Germans develop further, I knew that he was something special. That he became World champion coach in 2023 with Germany was no surprise to me. Herbert is a very special coach who simply knows how to develop team chemistry, let each player have a real special role and use it and most important helps players with the mental side. His players have come to appreciate his coaching ways the last 20 years. It is no surprise, that his name has often been mentioned in my interviews with his former players. Some of his former players remarks about him were so powerful that I used their words in my titles. I looked back in my article archive and found 6 players where I had Gordon Herbert in the title with guys like Mario Kasun, Justin Cobbs, Garai Zeeb, Jason Clark, Tyrone Ellis and Richard Williams. It wasn´t any different with his ex player Finish dinosaur Tuukka Kotti (205-PF-1981, college: Providence) who is 43 and still playing professionally in 2025. He played briefly for Herbert in 2009 before he returned to Frankfurt to take over for Murat Didin and lead the team to the 2010 final “I have always admired Gordie as a coach. He turned my career around in that half a season I was with him. He got me back to working hard and being focused on the right things. I will always be thankful for that. No surprise, that he has reached that level as coach”, stressed Tuukka Kotti. He has had such an amazing career that has spanned 20 years that if someone had told him in 2006, that he would still be playing, it would have been difficult to believe it. “Even in 2014 after the World Cup I thought I only had a couple more seasons left. 2006 it would have been hard to believe for sure. There is really no other job I would rather do so I have decided to play as long as I am able to compete at this level. I am really humbled and grateful that God has blessed me with such a long career. I have stayed healthy throughout most of my career. Hard work, enough sleep/rest, and balanced diet. It is a simple recipe”, said Tuukka Kotti.

Tuuka Kotti who names Troy Bell, Caron Butler, Chris Paul, Ben Gordon, and David Lee as his toughest opponents in the NCAA and in Europe Milos Teodosic and Keith Langford currently plays for Tapiolan Honka. He began his career with FoKopo and then played with the Salon Vilpas (Korisliiga) averaging 15.7ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.7apg in 2000. He is content that basketball has changed so much in the last 24 years. “The game was slower and tactically not as advanced as it is today. Coaching in Finland has developed a lot and it shows also in Korisliiga. In all areas I think. Biggest thing that stands out to me is the spacing of the game. Outside shooting has improved and teams are shooting more threes so it opens up the game more”, commented Tuukka Kotti. He went to the States in 2001 and played 4 years and 116 NCAA games for Providence College. He never averaged more than 10,0ppg in a season and as a senior played 31 games and averaged 9.9ppg, 5.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 41.5%, 3Pts: 30.3%. Back in those days, it was rare to see a Finish player play in the NCAA. “There were some players from Finland who had taken that route, for example Hanno Möttölä. Also playing in the US had for years been a dream of mine so it was an easy decision I did struggle my freshman year getting adjusted to the culture and the different style of play”, remembered Tuukka Kotti. There was a legend that he came to USA as a point guard and returned to Finland 4 years later as a center. Did he have extra Mcdonalds visits in those 4 years? Partly true, but the story has been exaggerated quite a bit over the years. I did play the different guard positions before college. Some PG as well. In college I was playing mostly in the wing and I developed in to a really good defensive player through those years. Defensively I was used in all positions but on offense I played more off ball than I was used to. I really moved closer to the basket when I turned pro and I had started to struggle with my outside shooting. That’s why teams wanted to play me first more at the 4 spot and eventually at the 5”, expressed Tuukka Kotti. He reached a NCAA tournament in 2004 and won´t forget it. “It was really fun! I had an opportunity to play against some really high level competition in the Big East. Also we practiced really hard which I enjoyed. And I got meet and build relationships with some people I cherish to this day. Were there things that I wish I would have worked on more or received more coaching with, absolutely. But overall, my college years were great. March madness was great, but it’s bitter sweet for me because we had an amazing season that year but got knocked out of the tournament in the first round”, added Tuukka Kotti.

The big man who lists Petri Virtanen, Shawn Huff, Chris Anrin, Maris Laksa, and David Gonzalvez as his best teammates of all-time had many incredible games in the NCAA including a 16/7/6 game in a win against Georgetown that had incredible guys like Rudy Gay, Charlie Villenueva, or Marcus Williams and in other games played against Emeka Okafor and Ben Gordon. “That one was a big one. All the games against UConn were memorable. They had some amazing teams and we were usually able to get the best out of our team against them. One game that I always look back on was our game at Notre Dame at the end of my freshman year. I had not played a lot during that year, and having a big game there really gave me confidence going into my second season”, remembered Tuukka Kotti. He had amazing teammates who later came overseas with Marcus Douhit, John Linehan and Ryan Gomes, all guys he won´t ever forget. “Marcus was amazing. Great player and great personality. He was really a big key to our success covering the middle of our 2-3 zone. Had quite a few of my shots blocked by Marcus too in practice. John set the tone for sure. He was a senior when I came in and I was really influenced by his leadership and how hard he worked. I have never played with a better defender in my career. Ryan was the same class and it was such a privilege to see him develop and become a star. He was an amazing player and just like John, he put the work in. All the greats do”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He then returned to Europe and played his first 3 seasons in Italy with Ignis Castelletto Ticino (Italy-Lega 2) averaging 10/6 and 11/6 and Noi Sport Monte Terminillo Rieti (Italy-Serie A). “I fell in love with Italy right away. I have some great memories from there and would love to go back and visit soon. Basketball was really good. There were tons of talent in Serie A and LegaDue. Also, always loved the passion of the Italian basketball fans.”, said Tuukka Kotti, He reached the Serie A in his third season but only averaged 2,1ppg. It was tough breaking into the rotation with guys like Pape Sow and Wade Helliwell. “That was a difficult year for me. Playing behind those guys and Leroy Hurd, who had a monster season that year. I broke in the rotation and got big minutes after Pape Sow got sold to Poland. Unfortunately I broke my hand, pretty soon after and missed almost the rest of the season”, remembered Tuukka Kotti. The Serie A at that time was already showcasing amazing players and you could always have a wow effect with a player each weekend. “My team mate Morris Finley was amazing throughout the season. And also Gianmarco Pozzecco. I remember them beating us at our place and him coming to our locker room after the game shaking everyone’s hands. That took a lot of courage”, stressed Tuukka Kotti.

The Finish native who names Luka, MJ, Kobe, Lebron, and Jokic on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore then played a season with Etendard de Brest (France-ProB) averaging 10.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 57.4%. “Pro B was very different from Lega Due. More up and down and athletic. Personally I had a difficult season there and didn’t play as well as I was capable of”, said Tuukka Kotti. He then played 2 seasons with the Honka Espoo Playboys (Korisliiga) averaging 12/9 and 16/10 winning 2 cups. “That second year our team was really good! One of the best that I have played in. We had size, great outside shooting and defensively we were really tough. After winning the cup we lost Coach Herbert for health reasons and Corey Belser left for Ukraine. After that the team wasn’t the same”, added Tuukka Kotti. He was teammates with so many interesting guys like Jamar Wilson, Carl Lindbom, Sasu Salin, Juka Matinean, and Tuomas Iisalo. Did he already notice that winning coach in Iisalo as something that could happen? “We had some great players for sure. Tuomas has always had a very curious and analytical personality. Also a real passion for the game. But yes, absolutely it has been surprising how far he has reached in such a short period of time. Amazing story. I am really proud of him”, stressed Tuukka Kotti. He then returned back to Italy for 3 seasons and played with Naturhouse Ferrara (Italy-Lega 2) averaging 10.9ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.7spg, FGP: 54.1%, FT: 43.5% and with Aget Service Imola (Italy-Lega 2) averaging 9.6ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.4spg, FGP: 57.5%, FT: 46.4% and with Vanoli Cremona (Italy-Serie A) averaging 6.0ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 61.0%, FT: 48.9%. He finally got more of a chance in the Serie A and was teammates with special player Shawn Huff who also played under Gordon Herbert. “It was great to be back in Italy those years and in Cremona had an opportunity to play against some amazing competition. Shawn and I are really close and the Cremona year is only a small part of everything we have experienced together. He is an amazing player and a person”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He then returned back to Finland in 2012 and never left again except for a season in Germany. He played 3 seasons with the Nilan Bisons Loimaa (Finland-Korisliiga) putting up consistent stats as always and having a stellar Eurocup season. Did you become home sick? “Not really. There was a great opportunity to play Eurocup in Loimaa, which is right next to my hometown Forssa, and I felt like that was great situation for me. It’s really hard to describe these three years. I have so many great memories and I loved my time at Loimaa. At the same time we played the last two years in the VTB-league on top of Korisliiga, which totaled to about 70 regular season games plus playoffs. Needless to say those years were very demanding mentally and physically. The tough competition in Eurocup, VTB and also Korisliiga did help me to develop and I feel those years matured me as a player quite a bit”, commented Tuukka Kotti. It was never boring in the season that Jacob Burtschi was his teammate. “I love Jake! He made our taxing season so much lighter with his personality. We were constantly competing with him. Half court shots, playing cards on the road. It was real good times”, remembered Tuukka Kotti.

For the ex Finish national player who lists Jesus Christ and Michael Jordan as his GOAT then played a season with the Crailsheim Merlins (Germany-ProA) averaging 9.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 62.3%, FT: 70.8% and played for Tuomas Iisalo. One would have thought it was a no brainer to play there. “It wasn’t a no brainer at that point. I was actually on my way to Joensuun Kataja, but ended up eventually in Crailsheim. I would say Tuomas was still developing his identity as a coach at that point. While he was already a good coach, I could not have predicted him succeeding that fast. One thing I noticed and appreciate in Tuomas is that he really insists on the things he believes in. And he will always give you a reason why”, said Tuukka Kotti. He then played 5 seasons with the Helsinki Seagulls (Korisliiga) winning 3 cups. He had his best stat season in his first season and another good season followed. Had he reached his prime at age 36? “There is for sure some truth to that. I think I played some of my best basketball those years and also in Eurobasket 2017. I hope it can serve as an encouragement to other players, that one can still develop at a later stage of their career”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He played for the talented is Jussi Laakso as a coach. He didn´t follow in the foot steps of Iisalo in Crailsheim, but like him has a knack for finding guards off the radar like Trae Bell-Haynes and Kendale McCullum and helping them make the next step. “Jussi is a great coach and great leader. He did an amazing job recruiting and putting together some of those teams. Jussi is very humble and eager to learn more, and it’s been great to see how he builds winning cultures everywhere he goes”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He then played the last 2 years with Tapiolan Honka and won the league title last season and will play there a third season. It seemed like he continued to be reunited with Carl Lindbom. Will he end his career there? “It’s hard to make any promises at this point. It’s totally in God’s hands, but I would love to finish my career here. This is a great organization with some amazing people, and I’m grateful to be a part of it”, stated Tuukka Kotti. Not too forget, he has been a member of the Finish national team over the years. He has seen Finish basketball take on a massive development in this period. “It has been like night and day. When I started with the NT we had no clear direction and we were lacking confidence. In the last 20 years there has been a big culture change in our programs and also what’s changed is that we believe in ourselves. The coaching in Finland has developed a ton and both players and coaches are more valued now around the world. We have a bright future”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He played against USA at the 2014 World Cup and suffered a brutal 114-55 loss against USA where he had 6 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals and a block. The Finish team was pretty talented then with guys like Murphy, Koivisto,Koponen, Salo, Huff and himself while Team USA had superstars like had Curry, Irving, Rose, Davis and Harden just to name a few. There was not one USA player that stood out for him most. “That was the most memorable game of my career! 10K Finnish fans in the arena and going against some NBA greats. It was a dream come true. Only a few years before that we were dreaming to play in the Eurobasket and all of a sudden we are here. I told the guys after the game in our locker room, that I have never before enjoyed getting my butt kicked. Not one player, but in general how fast they played, and the talent combined with speed and athleticism. It was really impressive”, remembered Tuukka Kotti who didn´t see the sequel to the classic Coming To America as the original can´t be topped. He has seen it all in the last 20 years and will always have enough stories to tell all.

Elijah Pemberton Turned Heads With His 3 Point Shooting In Belgium And Now Wants To Finish The Season Strong With The MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg

Elijah Pemberton (196-F/G-1997, college: Hofstra) is a 27 year old 196cm swingman that is playing his 5th professional season and first with MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. He began the season with Hubo Limburg United (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 15,3ppg, 3,8rpg and 1,6apg in the BNXT league and 15,6ppg, 3,4rpg and 2,2apg and 1,8spg in the Fiba Europe Cup. Last season he played with Samsun BSB Anakent (Turkey-BSL) and Hapoel Altshuler Shaham Beer Sheva (Israel-Winner League) averaging 5.3ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 68.8%. IN 2023, he had a short stint with the Ottawa Blackjacks (Canada-CEBL). He played his first 3 pro seasons with the Santa Cruz Warriors averaging 6.1ppg, 2.4rpg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 42.9% and in his second season averaged 11.6ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 61.2%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 82.2% and in his third season averaged 11.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 77.8%. He began his basketball career at Xavier High School and also played at The Master’s School and at Cheshire Academy. He then played 4 years at Hofstra University (NCAA) playing 128 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball during his time with Hubo Limburg United.

Thanks Elijah for talking to germanhoops.com Your playing your fifth professional season and second overseas. After a tough first season in Turkey and Israel, your balling this season with Hubo Limburg United (Belgium-Pro Basketball League). How important is this season for your career and how hungry and focused are you to have your break out season?

Every season I cherish. There’s no difference in importance throughout the years. I’ve learned more each year by becoming a better professional and adding new parts to my game. Whether it’s physical or mental skill. This year I’m grateful to be with a club who understood my prior situations, but at the end of the day as a player, I’m still a student of the game.

After your season last season, I´m sure you had to carefully make the right decision for your next destination in 2024-2025. What were the main reasons for choosing Limburg?

My main reason coming to Limburg was because of Coach Ray. He’s so smart with his X and O play calling. He has more of an American style coaching, where it’s about the development of team rather individual goals, which is rare in Europe. He’s building a family here within the squad, and understands we have to be in unison to become successful.

You had 2 very good seasons in the G-League. How confident are you that you will make your breakthrough this season?

I’m confident that I’ll continue to grow as a professional. With the offseason preparation and pre season still going, I’m in a mental space of clarity and gratitude. I can only control my attitude and effort, and giving 100% of everything I have. I’m confident in my skills, and I feel I’m in the best place to show and prove them.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

If I had to compare my game to anyone in the NBA it would be Norman Powell.

You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet with ease. You also have a lethal three point shot. What would you say is your biggest strength? Your versatility or three point shot?

I think my biggest strength is versatility, when I’m on point and consistent, I feel I can play with the best of them. Humbly speaking.

You reached the 40% mark in the NCAA and G-League and are still looking to do that overseas. How would you rate the development of your three pointer at the moment?

I think I will turn a lot of heads this season with my three point shooting. I’m in a great environment and I’m eager to showcase my game from the 3pt mark.

You don´t average much on blocks and steals, but it isn´t always about what is seen on the stat sheet. Are you the type of defender that does more the little things not seen on the stat sheet?

I would agree I’m great with the little things. Always in help defense spot, communicating with my teammates. First on the floor, and always willing to guard the best player on the perimeter.

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

I’m sharpening my mind for the most part. It’s a long season and there’s always ups and downs. Just trying to stay consistent with my brain, and let my game speak for itself.

Last season you played your first season overseas with Samsun BSB Anakent (Turkey-BSL) averaging 4.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.7apg, left in Nov.’23, in Dec.’23 moved to Hapoel Altshuler Shaham Beer Sheva (Israel-Winner League) averaging 5.3ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 68.8%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I was alone, and I had to become comfortable in my darkest moments. And for that I’m grateful the most high put me in those positions. Both teams made the right decision by removing me. I had a job to perform and didn’t live up to their expectations. It made me self reflect, and sometimes that’s hard for us players because we have egos. My ego died a long time ago.

Last season was your first one overseas. What did you learn from the experience and what was the biggest on court adjustment that you had to encounter?

My biggest on court adjustment was simply going from g league to top leagues overseas. The IQ and game is at a higher level there and I was underprepared. My body was good, but my game was a step behind.

You played your first 3 pro seasons in the Golden State Warriors organization and played with the G-League team Santa Cruz Warriors and in your last 2 years averaged 11.6ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 61.2%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 82.2% and 11.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 77.8%. What was your fondest moment being part of this great organization?

Fondest moments with the organization was playing with Klay. To see a superstar with such poise and humility was an honor.

Did you ever have a 1-1 moment with Steph Curry? What was he like in those moments where you could play with him during pre season?

Never had one, I was too in awe to even speak for myself. I was young, still a fan instead of competitive.

You had 2 solid G-League seasons averaging 23 minutes. Do you feel like with 30 plus minutes, you could have gotten a NBA call up? What do you honestly believed was missing for that NBA opportunity?

I believe they did what was best for their organization. I could have been more aggressive and made the most of my time. I’m not big on what ifs. If they wanted me they would have gotten me. I wasn’t NBA material at that time.

In those 3 years at Santa Cruz you had many great teammates like Jordan Poole, Jeremy Linn, Jonathan Kuminga and many more. Which teammate had the biggest influence on you?

Dusty Hannah’s, and Jerome Robinson had the biggest influence on me.

In your 3 years in the Golden State organization, what was the best example that you saw where you saw that the NBA will always be a business first before anything else?

The Golden state organization gave me every opportunity possible to shine. It was my worry and anxiety that hindered me. I always felt I was on the line of getting cut or doing something wrong and I second guessed myself. But that was all in my head. Basketball is basketball, we all face the same thing. I cannot make excuses or say the nba is more of a business. Back then, I was not ready.

You also were part of Team USA for various qualifiers and was teammates with guys like Norris Cole, Jodie Meeks or Jeremy Pargo. How cool was it being able to be a part of Team USA? What was it like playing for your country?

To represent my country was a true honor. Unforgettable teaching moments with so many legends with all different careers. I look back and realize how lucky I was to wear the red white and blue.

You played at Hofstra (NCAA) from 2016-2020. You were denied a NCAA tournament experience because of Covid. Despite that what did you gain most from the NCAA?

I didn’t gain anything from the ncaa, but from Hofstra University and my coaches, I gained so much. So many ups and downs in those years, and they believed in me until the end. I had an amazing point guard in Desure Buie who is basically the reason I’m a professional (in my eyes) without him helping me with my confidence and mentality our senior year, I don’t know where I would be right now. Coach Farelly spending so many hours in the gym with me, coach Claxton holding me accountable as a young man, and Coach Mihalick was all of that. The true jack of all trades and didn’t let me BS myself. I love those guys till death.

In your freshman year you lost by 23 points to NCAA powerhouse Kentucky and played against future NBA players like DaAron Fox and Malik Monk. What do you remember form this game most?

I remember seeing Justin Wright Foreman have a breakout game. And after that he became a 2000 point scorer in two years

You had so many great games in the NCAA and had Charleston´s number in many games scoring 20 plus games 5 times. What was your fondest moment in the NCAA?

My fondest moment of course is winning the CAA title with my brothers. I can’t express the feeling of that moment. From the beginning of that year, we believed in us.

How did head coach Joe Mihalich groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He helped me become a more honest man of myself and understand next level I won’t have the same opportunities as I would here. He gave me the green light and instilled confidence in me, even when I could be a bit of an idiot. He never gave up on me.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tareq Coburn?

I would smoke Tareq in 1 on 1. NEXT!

Who was the best player you played against in your life that reached the NBA?

Ben Simmons in AAU, Justin Wright Foreman.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Desure Buie Jerome Robinson Justin Wright Foreman Bryan Crawford Jalen Ray

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan Lebron James Stephen Curry Shaquille O’Neal Kobe Bryant

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

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

They should have absolutely left it alone. I agree lol

Thanks Elijah for the chat.