Marco Rahn (199-PF-1998) is a 26 year old 199cm forward playing his first season with German pro B team Dragons Rhondorf averaging 8,9ppg, 6,7rpg and 1,7apg.. He began his career with BG 94 Schwedt and then played with the Jena organization from 2013-2018 playing 4 easyCredit BBL games. He then played a season with Essen and then 4 seasons with BSW Sixers Sandersdorf (ProB) playing 87 Pro B games and in his last 2 seasons averaged 10.8ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 82.3% and 12.0ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 68.1%. Last season he played with BBC Bayreuth playing 34 games and averaging 3.5ppg, 2.6rpg. He spoke to germanhoops.com eurobasket about basketball.
Thanks Marco for talking to germanhoops.com. You have a new challenge with pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. What kind of an experience has it been playing for this organization?
It has been a good experience. It was a little adjustment coming from the Pro A to Pro B, but I was welcomed with open arms and I have great teammates.
After being in the Pro B for 5 years, you last season played in the Pro A with Bayreuth. Now your back in the Pro B? Why did you take a step back?
I knew early on this summer that I wouldn´t have a big role in Bayreuth so we decided to cancel the contract. I didn´t have any other real offers from Pro A teams, so I decided to go to the Pro B and move to a team that had big ambitious like the Dragons had and maybe be able to move up.
You stated in the Dragons Rhondorf press release that your goals and vision were the same with head coach Stephan Dohrn. What else was really enticing about joining this organization?
We both understood each other very well. He felt like the Dragons would be a good opportunity where I could practice a lot and work on my game. The goal is the playoffs.
What have you learned to appreciate most about the coaching philosophy most of coach Dohrn? I like his idea to play hard defense. I think this philosophy is vital for a team that have ambitions to win a title.
How important is having that big leadership role with the Dragons? You were captain of Sandersdorf and now have that chance to be a real leader. I was a leader with Sandersdorf. I showed what I could do in Sandersdorf as a leader. It was brought up in the talks that I would be a leader with Omojola and Pililpovic. I want to be one of the guys that helps the team get as far as possible.
The team isn´t as big as last year. Does this put extra pressure on your game to be more physical and active in the paint area?
I played the 5 in Sandersdorf. Small ball can function in the Pro B. I think that small ball has it´s advantages especially when bigs make the game slower.
What has it been like being teammates with Danas Kazakevicius? Are you like a mentor for him? No not yet. I try to help everyone with their game. I have a lot of experience having practiced with BBL teams. I think that having that possible mentor role with Danas will come with time. Players still have to find their find their games
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 199cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA or Euroleague player who would bets fit the description? I have never compared myself to another player. I see myself as a 3 and D player that can post up.
You are a very versatile player and are consistent. Are these 2 traits your biggest strengths on the court?
Yes I think that is accurate. I won´t ever be that 20/10 player, but moreover that player that holds a team together. I feel like I can fit in to many types of systems.
Your also a good three point shooter. Do you feel like you may take more three´s in the Dragons System or less mainly to help out more inside? I think that will show with time. It is hard to say. It will depend on how our opponents play.
How would you classify your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you want to become? I feel like I´m a versatile defender. I think that I can defend 2-5 and some point guards in the Pro B. I want to become more consistent as a defender and also keep the good Americans under their averages. They have to realize that it will be no fun playing against me.
On what areas of your game are you working on so you can continue to improve your game? I´m working most on being able to finish better.
You played in the Science City Jena organization from 2013-2018. How important was this time for your early basketball development? Was there a coach that helped you most? One of my favorite coaches ever was Torsten Rothamel. He was my U-16 coach and pushed me a lot. I am thankful for having played for Bjoern Harmsen. He gave me a chance to play BBL and he taught me what it meant to be a professional.
In the 2016-2017 season there were legends Julius Jenkins and Immanuel Mcelroy on the team as well as other great players like Wayne Bernard and John Little. What memories do you have of them and was there a guy that influenced you most? They all influenced me. It was incredible to see how well Jenkins and Mcelroy still played at their age at a high level. Derrick Allen helped me the most. He would take me to the side and give me tips. I will never forget a practice where I had my absolute worst shooting day. I missed everything. We played a lot of 5-5 and in the last game, I hit the game winning shot. Allen then told me that is how you have to do it. Never be afraid to take that last shot. All that counts was making the last shot. Nobody will remember you missing all the shots before.
You played 4 BBL games and 12 minutes. Was there any particular moment that you won´t forget from those games? I will never forget playing with Allen, Jenkins and Mcelroy in the O2 arena with Jena. I had watched them as kid as they played with Alba Berlin. Now I was teammates with them with Jena and playing in Berlin against Alba with them. That was a great moment.
You then played a season in Essen. How tough was it coming from Jena and not getting minutes? You had some really experienced Americans with Flomo and Calvin.
It was tough to lose so much, but I also learned a lot. It was important to see how a veteran like Flomo could handle defeat in such a long season.
You then played 4 seasons with Sandersdorf. How valuable was this time in your basketball development? You must of liked it because you remained in the Pro B. Was there no ambition for higher leagues? Playing with Sandersdorf was one of the best times in my life. Of course I had ambitions to go to higher leagues. One has to remember that at time, it was Covid. But I was comfortable there and had security. At that time, nobody really knew how Covid would end.
You played a season with Mr triple double Donte Nicholas. He is one of those guys that never got a real chance in higher leagues. Shouldn´t he have deserved it? Well he did play Pro A. He was a great player. I think that a lot of the time, it depends on if a player fits into a system
Last season you played with Pro A team BBC Bayreuth. You got 17 minutes and averaged 3,5 minutes. This was another tough season. You didn´t have freedom there? Weren´t you allowed to take more shots? There was a span during the season where in 6 games you took only 11 shots. That is little.
At the start my role was seen as getting 15 minutes. The system in Bayreuth simply didn´t fit my game. My role was to be a 3 and D player. I think that the team wasn´t put together well where each player could show their strength. It wasn´t the best season for me, but I also didn´t always show my best game.
Who was the greatest player that you ever faced in your life? Robin Benzing
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? There are too many to name.
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Shaq, Jordan, Lebron, Vince Carter
Who is your GOAT?
Vince Carter was always my favorite player. Today my Goat is Lebron and back in day Jordan.
Even if he goes by the name of Scott Stone (193-G-1995, college: St.Cloud St.), he is listed as Scott Stone on the world´s biggest basketball portal eurobasket.com and for some that special basketball bible as it currently has almost 1 million player profiles. If your looking for a baller no matter if in the NBA, the back woods of Europe or somewhere in Africa, you are sure to find him or her there. I had come across the name Scott Stone maybe a year or two earlier and had wanted to interview him, but for some reason had forgot. That happens with me when your interviewing players daily all around the world. It wasn´t until a few days ago where I was reminded about Stone in an email from a German basketball follower named Gerd. After getting some positive feedback for my work of covering all leagues in Germany and giving lesser known guys in lower leagues a platform, he preceded lauding Stone. His stats and play the last years in the Regionalliga in Germany more than warranted a look into his journey via the media. He is an American like so many overseas that is definitely way too good for having to grind in a fourth or fifth division. He has experience having played 3 seasons in Australia and 5 in lower leagues in Germany despite having a great NCAA 2 career. There are guys that didn´t have as good stats in division 2, but are playing in higher leagues overseas. As usual, he has a chip that is heaver on his shoulder than the burden the New York Knicks have had for more than 50 years to finally win a NBA title again. Some guys like a Shawn Scott and John Murry had to pay their dues for some years, but eventually moved up. How long can he still grind before moving up and does one have to love the game more than others to survive? “I mean I have a good agent now, and that is really the biggest thing is having an agent who is well connected and cares about your career so like I said I have my best basketball ahead of me and I’m just looking to enjoy the ride from here. I think a lot of guys love the game equally. We all grew up playing and it’s a kids game at the end of the day. I think to survive you need to have a great support system around you, and you got to have some luck with injuries and opportunities. It’s one of the most competitive job markets in the world and timing is everything. So being patient and staying healthy will take you a long way”, warned Scott Stone.
Scott Stone who lists former NBA players Matt Thomas and Deonte Burton as his toughest opponents in his basketball career was born on April 2, 1995 in Melrose, Minnesota. He began his basketball career at Melrose high school putting up explosive stats of 29.2ppg, 4.6rpg, 4.1apg, 2.1spg. He scored over 2,000 points breaking the school record held for 39 years by Mark Olberding. He also led Melrose to a 27-2 record and No. 1 state ranking during the 2012-13 season and also holds single game school record of 44 points. He picked up HS All-State Honorable Mention -2012, HS West Central Conference most valuable Player -2012, and 2013 and HS St. Cloud Times’ boys basketball Player of the Year -2013. But having a stellar high school career still wasn´t enough for the NCAA and he began paying his dues at St. Cloud State University (NCAA2). In his freshman year he averaged 6.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 37.9%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 81.8% and in his second season made a big jump averaging 13.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 46.6%, FT: 82.4%. His game continued to take massive steps in his last 2 seasons as he averaged 19.9ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 82.4% and 17.7ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 93.2%. “My game grew with just more opportunity, and the coaching staff having more faith in me. The staff there during my time really helped me grow as a player and person and put me in situations that were perfect for my skill set at the time”, stressed Scott Stone. He had so many great games there like hitting Mary and Minn-Crookston for 32 points and Wayne St NE for 34 points, but there was actually another game that stood out most. “I would say beating Augustana my senior year on our home court. They were a powerhouse my entire career in college so it was awesome to sneak out a win against them my final season there”, remembered Scott Stone. In his last 2 seasons he scored in double figures in 45 of 48 games and scored 20 points or more in 22 games. All of his success wouldn´t have been possible without the guidance of head coach Matt Reimer. “He taught me a lot about being organized and being on a schedule and sticking to that schedule. He showed me the importance of producing night in and night out and put me in positions to do just that throughout my career. Our entire staff at the time there was great. Chad Welk and Mahmoud Abdelfattah both were also instrumental in getting my game to where it needed to be. Love all those dudes to this day”, stated Scott Stone.
The explosive scorer who lists Daryl Corletto, Josef Eichler, Jacob Gibson, Robin Seeberger and Andy Foley-my all-time favorite shooting partner, Connor Niehaus, James (Jimmy) Fort and Patrick Fischer as his best teammates of all-time came to Germany in 2020 and laced on his sneakers for Lich Basketball (Regionalliga 2). It isn´t always easy for Americans coming overseas and make the big transition and often players experience that wake up call where they realize just how far they are away from home. “That was a tough year because of Covid so I think everyone there was just doing the best we could with the options we had at the time. However, the lockdown was definitely taxing on the mind, but luckily I got to spend a lot of time with the strength coach at Lich, Michael Stephan. He spent hours of his own time helping me get my body where it needed to be, and that time really kickstarted my recent success so I’m beyond grateful for him”, commented Scott Stone. He then made the next step to TSV 1861 Nordlingen where he is currently in his fourth season. In his second season he helped the club move from the Regionalliga 2 to Regionalliga. “The very cool part about that team is that it is majority the same guys we have on the team today. Almost all our local players grew up and played for Nordlingen when they were kids. Guys like Robin Seeberger, Bene and Leo Schwarzenberger, Julius Kluger, Pascal Schöppel, Lukas Hahn, Jakob Scherer, and Thomas Hirsch were a part of that team and are still main pillars of the team we have today. The special part about the group we have is everyone has played with each other for years now. Everyone knows their roles and are stars in their roles which is hard for a lot of teams to accomplish. It’s why we are competing for playoff spots every season even with such a young team”, added Scott Stone. Over the years he has had so many great games, but nothing so far has beat his 51 point explosion against Haching where he nailed 13 three´s. “That was a crazy night. The entire team was sick with the flu including myself. We only had 7 players on the roster, but everyone that played in that game played with such heart. Robin Seeberger had a 20 and 20 night with points and rebounds as well, so just a massive group effort. Just one of those days I needed to have a good shooting day and luckily it worked out”, said Scott Stone. It has to be truly mindboggling for him knowing that Steph Curry´s NBA high in three´s is 13 just like his career high. “Well that’s the best shooter ever so if anyone can match the type of numbers he’s putting up I’d say that’s a major win”, laughed Scott Stone.
The Minnesota native who lists MJ LeBron Kobe 2004- NBA MVP Minnesota and Timberwolf-Kevin Garnett on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore certainly can call both Germany and Australia as second homes. “I’ve done 3 full seasons in Australia and 5 here in Germany. So both places have become quite comfortable for me to live in. Being familiar with guys, coaches, and teams in the league has made for some exciting matchups in both spots. However, above all the management and players here in Nordlingen have made it become like family so it’s a special place for me”, added Scott Stone. What younger basketball fans may not know is that Nordlingen actually played in the BBL more than 15 seasons ago. There is a special basketball tradition in Nordlingen. “I think what people don’t realize is how much the city and the people here love and appreciate good basketball. It’s been very cool to see the support especially for the local guys who grew up playing for the club”, said Scott Stone. Seeing Americans play for 1 Regionalliga team is rare, but the organization is just so special that leaving just isn´t in the cards. “It’s been a real honor to play for Nordlingen. They take gigantic pride in having played in the BBL and 2.Bundesliga and it shows with the management. It’s an extremely professionally run club. From our General Managers Moritz Pösl and Matthias Thienel who brought me in and gave me a real opportunity to build my career here in Germany and I’m forever indebted to them for that. We also have an extremely professional and highly respected coach in Ajtony Imreh. It has been an absolute pleasure playing for him. He knows the game at an extremely high level, but also knows how to manage guys and the players very much respect him for all he does. Both the management and coach have brought so much professionalism to the club so you can tell very quickly they appreciate the history of the club and want to continue the tradition here”, warned Scott Stone. A very big factor why he even came to Nordlingen was Josef Eichler who was on that BBL team in 2008 as a19 year old. “Josef is my brother. He’s one of the main reasons I wanted to come to Nordlingen in the first place. The guy is the ultimate professional in every sense of the word. Always shows up early, plays harder than anyone, and is consistent in his approach day in and day out. I’ve learned so much about being a professional from him both on and off the court. On top of that he’s genuinely one of the nicest guys you will find. I’m very thankful for his friendship and mentorship throughout the years”, stated Scott Stone. He won his first chip in Australia and played for 3 teams named Ringwood Hawks, Western Port Steelers and Hume City Broncos. “ It was a great experience down there. My first season I got to play with the best BigV dynasty of all-time the Ringwood Hawks. That 2018 team was some of the most fun I’ve ever had playing basketball. Veteran guys like Matt Fennell, Matty Snowball, Shaun Clarke, Nate Truman, Stefan Osborne and the young fellas Matty Roberts, Kaide Fittolani and Seb Lees made it extremely easy to play and win games down there. I also got to live with and learn from one of the best Americans to play there during that time Jacob Gibson. He taught me a ton during that year, and we had a blast both on and off the court together. I also had the privilege of playing with and under Daryl Corletto. One of the best shooters in Austrailan NBL history. He expanded my game more than anyone in my career. I tried to steal everything from his game, and pick his brain everyday together. He’s such an unbelievably skilled shooting guard, and I’m lucky to call him a friend and mentor to this day”, warned Scott Stone.
The guard who lists Kevin Garnett as his GOAT and believes that the classic Coming To America should have been left alone is a guard that compares his game to NBA legend Reggie Miller and Euroleague legend Sergio Llull. “Both guys are big time shot makers and play with some flare so I try to emulate that as best I can”, said Scott Stone. He is the ultimate walking bucket, but his game encompasses so much more than that. “I rebound well for my position, and I’m underrated passer. I can play out of the ball screen effectively and I would say finding guys out of the ball screen is one of my bigger strengths. I’ve worked to improve my defense as the years have gone by and this year I’m averaging close to 3 steals per game. I would say I’ve gradually become a more well-rounded player as I’ve gotten older”, stressed Scott Stone. He continues to be an incredible three point shooter and continues to grow as a defender. “I’ve always been a natural shooter. It was something that came very easy to me at a young age. I would say I’ve taken my game to a different level now with being able to shoot and make 3’s off the dribble at a high percentage, but I’ve always been a pretty elite catch and shoot guy from a young age. I would say I’ve just worked on my positioning and my anticipation has improved quite a bit. I’ve never been the fastest or quickest guy so defense has always been a struggle of mine but I’ve improved it significantly recently, and I think this will be a major impact on where my game goes in the future”, warned Scott Stone. Despite being 29 years old, he still has many years ahead of him to continue getting better and possibly making the next step up leagues. “I would say making the correct reads out of double teams. Whether that be in ball screen or iso situations just finding where the ball needs to be quickly. I’m a natural scorer so this has been an adjustment I’ve been working on improving lately”, added Scott Stone. He still has big goals and after winning a title in Australia, winning another in Nordlingen and moving up to the Pro B would be perfect for him. “I think that is on everyone’s mind here. We’ve had some injuries and roster movements that have made it tough at the beginning of the season but we’ve won 4 out of our last 5 and we are starting to play our best basketball at the right time”, warned Scott Stone. He won´t ever get a rest on his shoulder as his chip is always getting heavier. He has understood that every guy´s journey is different. His great teammate at St Cloud Gage Davis had similar stats to him, but has been balling in first divisions in Denmark and Finland the last years. “Oh Gage is a different animal. He’s a killer, and he’s deserved all the opportunities he had and will continue to have. For me I think I’ve gotten a lot better since college, and I needed to work on my game in the lower leagues to get to where I am now. But I have my best years ahead of me so I’m excited to see where basketball takes me here in the near future”, warned Scott Stone. Stone is a great player playing the game he loves for little in lower leagues. But even better than his game is his character. Being so humble and enjoying life can only be infectious to his teammates and people he touches in Nordlingen,
Pedro Bradshaw (201-G/F-1998, college: Bellarmine) is a 26 year old 201cm forward from Kentucky playing his fourth professional season and first in Germany with the Rostock SeaWolves. He played his first 3 seasons in the G-League playing with the Salt Lake City Stars, Sioux Falls Skyforce, Iowa Wolves and the last 2 seasons with the Indiana Mad Ants averaging 9.3ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 75.6% and : 8.6ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 43.0%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 75.4%. He began his basketball career with Russelville High School and finished his career as the high school’s all-time leading scorer (1,938 points) and rebounder (1,169). He played a season and 10 NCAA games with Eastern Kentucky University and then played at Bellarmine University (NCAA2) from 2019-2021 averaging 9.2ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 80.0% and 16.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.5apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 83.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Pedro for talking to germanhoops.com. After 3 years in the G-League and in Australia, you now are in Europe for the first time having signed with German easyCredit BBL team Rostock Seawolves. How excited are you to test the waters in Germany?
I’m very excited. It’s a really cool opportunity that opened up during the FIBA break and it’s also my first time ever being in Europe period, so I’m definitely thrilled to get the ball rolling with the new team.
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? I know a little bit only because I’ve got friends that play and have played in the league, but I’ve always seen how talented, competitive, and fast-paced the league is so it’ll be nice to be able to see and play against some familiar faces out here.
Have you had any friends or former opponents or teammates ball in Germany? Bellarmine legend Braydon Hobbs had a fantastic career overseas and reached the Euroleague with FC Bayern Munich.
I remember always seeing Braydon’s play within the German league and his transition to the EuroLeague, and he always seemed to be calm, cool, and collected like he always plays. He never got sped up, made the right play every time and knocked down shots. His game wasn’t flashy, but he got the job done wherever he played so it was respected and he eventually got to the highest level overseas which was always very impressive to me.
What were the main reasons for joining the Rostock Seawolves and how did the talks go with head coach Przemyslaw Frasunkiewicz? What did you like most about his basketball philosophy?
I knew the team was having a good season and currently in the playoff hunt, which helps when it comes to recruiting any player. My former teammate in the G-League, Derrick Alston Jr., was with the team the past two seasons so I got to see highlights of him along the way while he was here. And a good friend from back home, JeQuan Lewis, just recently joined the team about a month or so again, so having a familiar face in a new place never hurts either. But the conversations with Coach were great, I can tell he is very knowledgeable about the game and he’s a player coach. Always seems to get the most out of his guys, he instills a lot of faith and confidence in his players and they trust him. The thing I liked most about his philosophy is that he mostly just wants his players to and just be solid and get stops consistently defensively, play freely and confidently offensively, and play high IQ basketball on both ends of the court.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?
I watch a lot of different guys that I take different things from. Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, Derrick White, Haywood Highsmith, KCP, Donte DiVincenzo, Max Christie, Royce O’Neal, etc. These are all guys that can shoot and score, but also do so many other things on both sides of the ball to help their teams win games.
You’re a player with an all around nice game. What is your biggest strength and how much is versatility a focus in your game?
Versatility has always been a big part of my game. I was taught by my grandad to play that way because it keeps you on the floor longer and makes you even more valuable to any team if you can play and guard multiple positions. Shooting is probably the biggest strength because every team in the world needs it, but I think rebounding is a close second, and I’ve always had a good feel for passing and being a secondary playmaker.
You shot over 40% from outside for 3 different G-League teams as well as in college. Where do you see your development as a three point shooter at the moment? What steps do you still need to do to reach the next level?
I think it’s important to obviously be consistent, but continuing to learn how to keep raising my efficiency. And that comes with reps but also watching film to see where my best looks/shots come from and will be and emphasizing getting to those looks and working on the footwork of those shots. Being cognizant of not shooting all of my bullets too early, you have to play with some calmness and pace when you’re playing or else it’ll affect your efficiency. So a lot of it is about finding your rhythm and balance and just trusting your work and taking your shot when it’s there.
What kind of a defender would you call yourself now and to what level do you want to bring your defensive game to?
I’m usually starting out as a wing defender, but as the game goes on, I’ve mainly been used as a POA defender in my past few seasons as a pro. Guarding a lot of smaller and quick and shifty guards that can really score. Fighting through ball-screens, picking guys up full-court, trying to slow them down and disrupt their rhythm, etc. But I definitely want to continue to learn more techniques as far as getting through ball-screens and chasing guys off multiple down-screens. My feet are usually quick enough to get through and keep up, but anytime you can get through a screen, it blows up the offense. Alex Caruso and Lu Dort are two of the best in the NBA at that.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
Continuing to build a rhythm and consistency is always a focal point wherever I am. Consistency is the hardest aspect of any sport because no practice or game is ever the same every time. So you have to find ways to find that level of consistency so you can improve and have success night in and night out.
You began the season with Cairns Taipans (Australia-NBL). What kind of an experience was Australia and the NBL? This is an up and coming league. How would you compare it to the G-League?
There’s some small similarities but the NBL is a lot more physical and there’s more of an emphasis to win each game. It’s a shorter season so every game matters. In the G, winning matters, but development and helping guys get call-ups is always the #1 thing, which is never a bad thing. And it’s tougher to have a consistent team in the G-League because you have assignment guys that come down from time to time, along with the three two-way players so the rotation shifts constantly.
I can´t remember ever seeing a player play for 4 G-League teams in a season, but you did playing with the Salt Lake City Stars (NBA G League) averaging 8.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.3apg, in Dec.’21 signed at Sioux Falls Skyforce (NBA G League) averaging 5.0ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.3apg, in Jan.’22 signed at Iowa Wolves (NBA G League): averaging 1.7ppg, 2.3rpg, in Feb.’22 signed at Fort Wayne Mad Ants (NBA G League): averaging 5.7ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 80.8%. How challenging was it playing for 4 teams? That was my toughest season because it was my rookie year. It was hard to stick. I was just trying to survive through the season. I had 23 points on 5-8 from the three that game, then didn’t really play much the next handful of games because we brought down two assignments and our two-way guys, so eventually I got waived in Salt Lake City then was picked up by Sioux Falls, spent some time there and played well then Mario Chalmers came back to get a 10-day and Javonte Smart was coming back to the team, so I was waived again after a month or so. Then I got a call from Iowa to fill in for a player who had COVID-19 at the time, so I was only there for a couple weeks. Then I got a call from Chris Taylor in Fort Wayne and ended up finishing the last couple months of the season with them, even had a game winner in one of the last games.
What was your wake up call to being a rookie in the G-League where you knew OK I´m playing for teams run by NBA teams?
Seeing the assignments and two-ways coming up and down from the NBA team to the G-League team. That was a big wake-up call. And obviously playing the games and practicing against current and former NBA guys was an eye-opener too. Rudy Gay practiced with us once in Salt Lake and that was insane to see because he’s 6’8-6’9, 240-250 and moved with so much pace. It looked like he wasn’t even trying (and maybe he wasn’t) out there, and he was always a guy I loved to watch so that was a fun little experience.
In Salt Lake city you were teammates briefly with Carsen Edwards. What memories do you have of him and how excited to play against him in a few weeks?
Carsen was always the first guy in the gym and one of the last to leave. He had a great season that year and ended up signing a standard with Detroit to finish the season. Seeing how hard he worked was insightful. We all saw him kill it at Purdue, especially in the NCAA Tournament, but it’s different getting to see why he’s so good. I would come in the gym and just sit and watch him workout. He’s extremely detailed and disciplined with his footwork and technique and how many shots he’s making from each spot and being strategic about each part of his workout. And we ended up having a good relationship because he respected how I worked as well and the way I played so that was always big for me. To have someone like that really see and respect what you do, especially as a rookie, that’s always stuck with me so it’ll be amazing to see him again soon.
You only played briefly for Ernst Scott at Iowa. He played in the easyCredit BBL more than 15 years ago. What kind of a coach was he?
Coach E was the assistant in Iowa at the time, but knew he wanted to be a head coach at some point in time. And he’s well-equipped for the job, he was obviously a player, he’s a players coach, and just very personable and professional. He really knows the game from all angles. We built a good relationship there too and we’ve talked from time to time to check in with each other, so I’ll always have a ton of love and respect for E.
In your second season you played for the Fort Wayne Mad Ants (NBA G League) averaging 9.3ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 75.6%.You were efficient in the 19 minutes that you averaged. How tough is it not being able to average 30 minutes and possibly getting that NBA call up? Do you play for the NBA call up or is your focus elsewhere?
Honestly, I just wanted to prove that I really could play in that league (and the NBA). The roster was 12 guys, there were 9 E-10s and two two-ways and I was the only standard G-League guy on the team. That would probably be my favorite season so far just because of how I played with all the talent that was on the team throughout that season. David Stockton, Jordan Bell, Gabe York, Elfrid Payton, Justin Anderson, Norvel Pelle, Jermaine Samuels, Trevelin Queen, Kendall Brown, Eli Brooks, Jordan Bone, etc. I just wanted to learn from those guys and prove that I could be an important piece and have an impact on winning each time I stepped on the floor.
In your next season there you averaged 8.6ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 43.0%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 75.4%, in 23 minutes of time. You had some good games that season. What was your summary of 3 years G-League basketball? What do you feel did you most gain from the experience?
I think I was able to find myself a little bit and build foundational aspects of the player I can be for my career. But I also learned how good you truly have to be to make it into the NBA. It takes a little luck and perfect timing as well, but you have to be good in so many ways on and off the court to get a chance.
You played at Eastern Kentucky University (NCAA) playing 10 games averaging 2.4ppg, 1.8rpg. How tough was this season after being redshirted at Belmont. What positives could you take from this season?
That was a tough season because I had transferred in at Christmas break the year prior so I had to wait until that point that season and it was a new coach other than who I came to play for. So after Christmas break, I got some spot opportunities here and there but the coach ultimately told me at the end of the season that he wanted to bring his own guys in. So that was tough, especially after just transferring the year before, I had to do it again.
You then finished at Bellarmine University (NCAA2) averaging 9.2ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 80.0% and 16.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.5apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 83.5%. You made a big jump in your game in your last season. How did your game grow then?
I did a lot of film study on Alex Cook that summer going into my last year. AC was the senior and best player the year before and was deciding if he wanted to go pro or not during that summer. But I watched film on him and how he got to his spots within the offense and had him meet me in the gym a couple times right before the season just so he could show me a couple things in regards to how he picked his spots and also how he drew fouls from those spots.
You had some huge games against Army, N Alabama and Jacksonville. What was your fondest moment on the court?
It would probably be one of the games against Kennesaw State, only because they had a freshman guarding me who was long and a good defender and he tried to trash talk a little. I saw it as respect, but I would just grin and score on him whenever I wanted. I liked him game though, he became a really good player for their team the following season.
How did head coach Scott Davenport groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
He would talk about the importance of work ethic a lot. He’s been coaching for a long time, and he’s seen it all at this point, so he would reference certain players from his days coaching for Rick Pitino at UofL and his early days at Bellarmine and just stress how important not only working hard, but how to make the most of your time so you’re not building bad habits and working on the wrong things.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Alex Cook?
AC. He was so strong, quick and athletic so he would use that to his advantage every time. But I’d definitely get him now, no question.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career in the NCAA that reached the NBA?
Probably Dylan Windler, even though we were teammates at Belmont. I was on the second team and would always have to guard him and we’d have some battles. He really improved as a scorer and shooter during his time there, but the way he rebounds and cuts has never wavered. I was able to pick up a lot from him during that time that’s helped me out to this day.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? In no order: 1. Gabe York 2. Jordan Bell 3. Elfrid Payton 4. Trevelin Queen 5. Jermaine Samuels
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?
1. LeBron James 2. Magic Johnson 3. Michael Jordan 4. Kobe Bryant
Who is your Goat and why?
LeBron is definitely my GOAT. The longevity factor obviously plays a huge role, but he’s also won everywhere he’s been, and teams are completely different after he’s gone. He also has exceeded every expectation that was put on him from the time he was 16 to now as a 40-year old. Plus, I always loved watching him fly through the air to dunk, but it was mainly the way he controlled a game with his playmaking and passing ability.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
They definitely should’ve left it alone. I’ve watched it a couple times. It has a few funny moments in there, like any scene with Tracy Morgan was hilarious. The casting was good overall, the premise was good too. But all in all, they could’ve just let that one be, everything doesn’t need a part two or a reboot.
Bo Hodges (196-G/F-1998, college: Butler) is a 26 year old 196cm guard from Tennessee playing his third professional season and first in Germany with Pro A team Munster currently averaging 9,9ppg, 4,8rpg, and 2,9apg. Last season he played with at S.C. Lusitania EXPERT (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging13.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 66.7%. He split his rookie season with the Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 6.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 35.0%, 3FGP: 30.0%, FT: 70.0%, in Oct.’22 moved to Kouvot Akatemia (Finland-1st Division A) averaging 12.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.7apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 37.0%, 3PT: 14.8%, FT: 72.7%, played also at Kouvot Kouvola (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 11.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 66.7%. He began his basketball career at He began his basketball career at Maplewood High School. He then played at East Tennessee State University (NCAA) from 2017-2020 playing 93 games and averaging 8.9ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 69.3%, in his second season averaged 10.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 56.0% and in his last season averaged 12.7ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 63.7%. He then finished at Butler University (NCAA) averaging 8.2ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 34.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 45.8% and in his last season averaged 10.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 62.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.
Thanks Bo for talking to eurobasket.com. Welcome to Germany and congrats with signing with Pro A team Uni Baskets Munster. How motivated are you to make the next step in your career? I am very motivated to take the next step in my career as a player. I’ve worked hard to do so.
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? I knew some about it I have had friends that I know play here so I’ve watched games and seen the style of play.
Have you had any friends, former teammates or opponents ball in Germany? Yes I have.
What were the main reasons for signing with Munster? How much of a role did Ty Groce have your ex teammate from Butler (NCAA)? Now your reunited again as teammates.
It felt like a great opportunity to get my career on the right path to make the jumps I need. An he played a little role as it’s always cool to be able to play with someone you know!
How did the talks go with head coach Gotz Rohdewald? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?
They went well and I appreciate that he was honest he told me what I needed to do to take my game to the next level and what I was coming in to do.
Coach Rohdewald said in the press release that you had a lot of misfortune in your first 2 pro seasons. How big is your will to have an incredible season?
My will every season is to have a big year but this year is a little different I’m due for a good season god willing.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard/forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description besides Dwayne Wade? I mean I really don’t know I’d say I’m just me.
You’re a player that really fits the stat sheet well. Would a Swiss army knife be a good description of your game? If that’s what you think, I’m just a guy that goes out there and tries to do whatever I need to for my team to win.
Your strong, athletic and have a huge fighting mentality. What do you feel is hidden strength in your game that is still off the radar? • I would say my ability to pass.
Is it fair to say that you don´t like playing defense, but Love to play defense? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? You could say that I feel you can always get better at something so always room for improvement in that area.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? My shooting.
You played last season for S.C. Lusitania EXPERT (Portugal-Liga Betclic) playing 9 games averaging 13.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 66.7%. How tough was coming in mid season? What did you learn about yourself in this season? It was very tough coming in mid season to a team that hadn’t won a game. I learned how much I really love the game of basketball-
You played your rookie season with the Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 5 games averaging 6.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 35.0%, 3FGP: 30.0%, FT: 70.0%, in Oct.’22 moved to Kouvot Akatemia (Finland-1st Division A) playing 7 games averaging 12.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.7apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 37.0%, 3PT: 14.8%, FT: 72.7%, played also at Kouvot Kouvola (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 11.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg,FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 66.7%. You had your moments. How vital was having to face adversary for the first time overseas? How did you become mentally stronger? Just trusting in god and trusting the process to keep moving forward.
You played 3 seasons at East Tennessee State University (NCAA) playing 92 NCAA games. Was winning the SoCom title in 2020 one of your fondest moments there? I would say so yes.
You had 3 very solid seasons there. How vital was head coach Steve Forbes in your early basketball development? He was a big part just believing in me and trusting me to be productive in the years I was there.
In your 3rd NCAA game you battled Kentucky and played 5 minutes. You played against future NBA players like Shai Gillgeous-Alexander, PJ Washington or Kevin Knox. What memories do you have of this game? None really.
You then played 2 seasons at Butler (NCAA), but only 26 games and had injury problems. How would you summarize your 2 seasons there? What positives could you take? A tough 2 years for me.
What was it like being teammates with Ty Groce? Are you guys brothers for life? Yeah that’s my brother for life it’s always cool playing with someone you know.
How did head coach Lavall Jordan give you that extra push to help you become a pro player? We never talked about it.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Bryce Nze We never played.
Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court? Fletcher Magee
Who is your GOAT and why? Michael Jordan
Did you see the sequel to the classic coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? Yes they should have.
Caleb Bellach (201-F-2001, college: Montana Tech) is a 201cm forward from Manhattan, Montana that began his rookie season in Germany with Team Ehingen Urspring (Germany-ProB) but had to go after only 5 games averaging 5,6ppg and 3,0rpg in 18 minutes time. He began his basketball career at Manhattan Christian High School and then played 2 seasons and 28 NCAA games with Montana State University. He then finished at Montana Technological University (NAIA) playing 3 seasons and 82 games averaging 15.2ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 75.3%, 17.7ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 79.4% in his second season and in his third season averaged 13.2ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 81.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball before signing with Team Ehingen last summer.
Thanks Caleb for talking to germanhoops.com. How blessed do you feel to be able to play overseas? I feel extremely blessed to get the opportunity to continue to play the game I love overseas. It’s something I’ve dreamed about since I was in Highschool! I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have the right people around me and help me with this journey to get the opportunity!
How aware are you that one doesn´t see many NAIA guys reach overseas. Does knowing that motivate to heighten your work ethic as a rookie to a new level?
I know NAIA players may often get overlooked in some areas because we may go to some smaller schools but at the end of the day it’s how you play the game. I think knowing that just pushes me to go out there and prove something. No other choice than to be the most confident player on the floor!
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? To be honest I don’t know too much about Germany or its basketball until the last few months! The little I do know comes from my former teammate and roommate from Montana State, Finn Fluete who is from Essen, and now plays for Duesseldorf. But I’m super excited to get over there and learn and experience a new culture and meet some great new people and play the game we love!
Have you had any friends, former opponents or teammates play overseas and in Germany besides Finn Fleute?
I also have multiple teammates from my playing career that are playing overseas! (Harald Frey, Jubrile Belo, Abdul Mohammed, Sindou Diallo, Dalton Hommes)
Ehingen is a program that has been known of developing young players well. What were the main reasons for you joining this organization? Coach Hübner and I were able to chat for a long time and everything he was saying just sounded like a perfect fit for me! I feel like there’s always things to grow and develop regardless of age and I believe that I will be able to come in with a little bit of a leadership role!
How did the talks go with head coach Johannes Hubner? What did you enjoy most about his basketball philosophy? Coach Hübner is a great coach and I’ve heard nothing but good things about him! He said that the style he likes to play was very similar to the style I was used to playing at Montana Tech, and he made it pretty clear the role he thinks is best for me!
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? I would say that my best play comparison is Demar Derozan? But I’m not sure lol! Maybe Gordon Hayward as well.
You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet well and seem to be a guy that can do a bit of everything. How well defined is versatility in your game? I feel like I can score the ball at all 3 levels, when your game is well rounded and not 1 dimensional it opens up so many more opportunities on the floor for myself as well as my teammates!
You won 3 titles in the NAIA. How much of a leader are you?
I have had to lead by example since high school, my dad was my high school coach so there was no other choice! I feel ready to go and the best way to lead is by doing it first!
You shot the 3 ball really well in 2 of your 3 NAIA career and topped it off at 38% in your last year. How would you describe your shooting potential as you start your rookie season? What is your biggest goal with your shooting this season?
I feel like I have the potential to shoot above 40% but it all depends on the type of shots I’m taking, sometimes in college I would maybe take a lower percentage shot but I knew I could make the shot because I had before! My biggest goal for shooting this season is honestly just making enough to win games and taking the right shots for the team!
What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?
My defense has always been a weaker point of my game but the last 3 years I’ve really tried to work on it, I feel like it comes down to who wants it more.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? I’m working on being more consistent with my finishing around the rim about 10 feet and in. As well as my ability to get down hill and then make adjustments as I read the defense, making the best play possible for the team!
You began your college career at Montana State University (NCAA) and played there from 2019-2021 and played only 28 games. How much did Covid hamper your time there? Could you take any positives from these 2 years? Montana State and coach Danny Sprinkle were great for me, I was a young 18 year old with no experience. I grew as a person and player and there is no way I would be where I am today without going through the Covid years and without having to grind out 2 years. It made me have a new view on the game and honestly made me fall in love with the game again!
How much of a role model was upperclassman Harald Frey who played the last 2 seasons in Germany´s top league BBL and will play in top Spanish league ACB this season? What were you able to soak up from his game? Harald was a leader for our team, he’s always been one of the most supportive teammates I’ve ever had. He never hesitated to help me with anything or give me any sort of advice. I literally could ask him for anything or any help and Harry would be there for me, that’s the type of guy he is. I’m super greatful that when I was a freshmen I had such a great teammate to look up to.
What was it like being teammates with Fin Fleute? You could have a reunion in Germany this season.
Finn was always down to do whatever. He was always excited to explore. He is one of the strongest and nicest dudes I know. I haven´t seen him in a few years but we will link up in Germany again.
After playing in the NCAA for 2 years you then too a big step back moving to the NAIA and playing for Montana Tech. Was this a tough step mentally and did you develop a chip on your shoulder?
I felt like taking that step “back” I had to go out and prove that I was the “man” at that level. I had no other choice than to be the most confident dude and the floor. I just tried to be an absolute killer.
You won 3 Frontier conference titles at Montana Tech. Which one was the most sweetest? They were all sweet in their own way, I would say the 1st one just because the last tech team to do it before we did it the first time, my dad was a member of the team. My dad only got 2 however so now I got 1 up on him hahah
How did head coach Adam Hiatt groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
Coach Hiatt believed in me from day 1, he recruited my from my sophomore year of high school and told me then that I could play professionally one day. I truly owe Coach Hiatt so much for allowing and trusting me to come in and help him change the program. He will be family for life.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Asa Williams? Probably about 50-50 but we will go with me
Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA? Paolo Banchero or Jaden McDaniels
Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time? Harald Frey Xavier Bishop Sindou Diallo Asa Williams Chrishon Dixon
What is your personal NBA mount rushmore of past or present heads? Micheal Jordan Kobe Bryant Kevin Durant Dirk Nowitzki
Who is your GOAT and why? Micheal Jordan, he changed the game and it’s the driving reason we are where we are today
Did you see the sequel to the classic coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
Phillip Flowers (196-SF-1990, college: UWG) is a 34 year old 196cm small forward from Lauderdale, Florida and playing with the Bona Baskets Limburg (“ Regionalliga) this season. He has pro experience in Qatar, Brazil and in semi pro leagues in the States with teams Georgia Spartans (UBA) and the South Florida Gold (ABA). He played at : Eastern Florida State College (NJCAA) and the University of West Georgia (NCAA2). He spoke to germanhoops.com after a 65-57 win over Eintracht Frankfurt.
Thanks Philip for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the big win over Eintracht Frankfurt. The guests are filled with 80% youth players. Did it feel like men playing with boys? Yes it did feel like that. Sometimes I have to get myself mad just to motivate myself to play. I´m bigger and stronger than those guys. You have to keep it simple when you play against young guys.
What was the key for getting the win at home? We didn´t find an offensive rhythm. Only one guy was at practice yesterday. But we did give an overall consistent defensive effort.
You last played 5 years ago in the ABA. How did you land in Limburg?
I met a former Limburg player through my job in Wiesbaden. I´m a contractor in Wiesbaden and work for the government. I got a try out and the rest is history.
You live and work in Wiesbaden. Is the Limburg gig more a hobby or do you still have aspirations of chasing the pro dream?
Of course I still want to get to the next level. I won´t be able to get to the top, because of my job though. But I feel capable of playing in the Pro B or Pro A.
Did you have a 9-5 job the last 5 years? Did you continue to work on your craft or was the professional route on the back burner? I worked as a contractor for the US government in different countries the last years. I played in Qatar, Brazil and in China tournaments.
What kind of an experience has it been playing for the Bona Baskets Limburg? What have you enjoyed most about the experience? It has been cool. I have gotten to know some of the guys. I´m proud to have been a mentor for some of the young kids and try to give them knowledge and help them get better. I really love how we always have access to the gym.
You aren´t the only veteran, but Elijah Allen is also here. What is it like sharing the court with him? Is one more the leader and the other have a different function? I can be a vocal leader, but also leader with actions. Elijah is the same.
How enjoyable has it been being teammates with Justin Stallbohm? Isn´t his smile infectious? His smile is very infectious especially when his shot is going in. I get a lot of assists from him. He is a good shooter and leader as our captain.
You played in countries like Brazil and Qatar, but was never in Europe before this season. What do you believe kept you away from Europe? Was it failed representation?
It wasn´t really failed representation, but he just didn´t have a network in Europe, but more in South America. I would have liked to have played here earlier in my career.
You played for the South Florida Gold (ABA) reaching the final. What memories do you have of this season? What was missing from getting that chip? We just didn´t play very well as a team. It was a big moment and they just had more experience than us.
You played 2 seasons with Botafogo F.R. (Brazil-Liga Ouro) winning a chip. What was so special about this team that season? We had a bunch of really good players. We had strong imports and a really good team. It wasn´t only great to win the title, but to contribute
You played your rookie season with the Georgia Spartans (UBA). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie? My wake up call was realizing I had to get stronger. I always had the skills. I focused more on my body.
You began your college career at Eastern Florida State College (NJCAA). Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO have said it was a grind, but an experience they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you? I agree. What many don´t realize is that JUCO has a lot of good players. Guys usually land here because of bad grades. I learned that if I want to get somewhere, I have to work hard.
You then played a season with the University of West Georgia (NCAA2). You only played a season there. Why didn´t you finish there? I stayed only one season, because I was ineligible for a second season.
What was your fondest moment on the court? Possibly your 23/13 game against Carver? I don´t even think that that was my best game. Maybe on paper it was. My fondest moment was winning the dunk contest at midnight madness.
How did head coach Michael Cooney groom and prepare you best for a pro career? He taught me discipline. I understood that if I didn´t do something a certain way, I would sit.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Zac Taulien? I won. Not too many beat me.
Who the toughest player you battled that reached the NBA? I played against Bam Adebayo. I played against James Harden in a Miami tournament and did really well. He didn´t play defense. I put up 37 points against Jeremy Pargo also in Miami. I also played against Derrick Jones Jr.
Who are your 4 best teammates of all-time? Kenny Boynton, Brandon Knight, Eloy Vargas, Keith Clanton
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, Shaq
Who is your Goat? Michael Jordan
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? Yes they should of left it alone.
Tyler Stephenson-Moore (190-G, college: Stony Brook, agency: Players Group) is a 190 cm guard from Brookville, New York playing his rookie season for Phoenix Hagen (Germany-ProA). He began his basketball career at Long Island Lutheran High School. He then played 5 seasons at Stony Brook University (NCAA) playing a total of 140 NCAA games. In his last 2 seasons he averaged 14.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 83.9% and 16.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 84.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Tyler for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with German Pro A team Phoenix Hagen. If you could describe your excitement in 1 word what would it be? Ecstatic!!!!
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Have you had any friends or former teammates and opponents ball in Germany? Just the basics honestly. True sports fans at all levels, beautiful scenery, good food and lastly a welcoming culture. I do have a friend who played basketball in Germany, not sure exactly where but he said it was one of the best countries he played in as a professional hooper.
German Roland Nyama helped lead your school to their only NCAA appearance in 2016. He graduated in 2017 and since then has been a German pro A vet. Had you heard of him or even met him over the years? No I haven’t actually, hopefully our paths cross during the season so we can talk more in depth.
What really enticed you the most about signing with Phoenix Hagen? You watched some games and did you in a way fall in love with the great fan atmosphere? Did that remind you a bit of what one sees in the NCAA? Great fit in terms of style and play defensively/offensively. Phoenix Hagen’s fans are awesome and truly show a lot of support and love the team. The energy at the home arena looked electric!!!
Talk a little about what you appreciate most about the basketball philosophy of Hagen head coach Chris Harris? What do you enjoy most about his brand of basketball?
Extremely respectful guy and was honest in what type of player he was looking for. Consistently checked on me during my process and always wanted to have a chat. I really liked how everything is for the TEAM and not ones personal goals. Very fast pace basketball with a ton of ball movement. He elaborated a lot on having a great team culture which is something that reminded me of my LuHi High School Basketball Team in 2018-2019.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description`?
Honestly thinking about it right now Derrick White. Mainly regarded as a shooter but can do everything, knows his role and does what it takes to help the team win.
How would you describe your game? You’re a great scorer and three point shooter and bring great defensive energy. I am an all-around player who will do anything to make sure the energy of the team is positive and that things are flowing smoothly.
You raised your amount of three point shots each year and twice eclipsed the 40% mark. Your three pointer seemed to make big strides in your third season and fifth season. How would you describe the development of your shot? –
Just staying consistent and having a lot of confidence. One thing you learn as a college athlete is how to keep a positive mindset within yourself. This can take months even years to really grasp but once you get past the mental part everything becomes easy. Remember we all started playing because it is FUN!
How big is the development of your passing on your basketball radar? What do you need to do to be able to develop your playmaking overseas?
Playmaking definitely needs to be improved, but it all comes down to the type of play style and certain positions my coach utilizes me in. I feel I am more than capable of handling the basketball and making the right reads to help get my teammates shots/opportunities to make plays to help us win.
You only averaged a 1 steal per game in a season in your NCAA career. Do you do a lot of things defensively that aren’t always seen on the stat sheet right away? I can get you a couple deflections with my active hands. I can 100% also get a block and alter a lot of shots taken on me due to my athleticism.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? Everything. I am constantly working on everything that will keep me at my top performance!
How tough were your first 2 seasons at Stony Brook (NCAA) where you never averaged more than 4 and 2 points per game. Covid was around and could you take any positives from this tough time? Freshman year is always the year you can simply brush off, sophomore year aka covid year was 100% the hardest year for me. I thought I was ready to step up and take on a bigger role at Stony Brook and it was ultimately a failure. I lost complete confidence in myself as a player and thought about quitting. Looking back on it I wouldn’t change anything, there were lessons learned and I personally feel I will be ready to tackle any challenge that comes my way moving forward with a clear and humble mind.
During a stretch at the end of your freshman year you were averaging 35 minutes and hit UNH and Binghamton with 19 points a piece back to back. How important was this time? Did you feel like you had arrived in the NCAA?
Very important! That was a time when I started to grasp some of the college basketball concepts and just felt extremely comfortable on the court. I wouldn’t say I felt like I arrived but honestly just having that feeling of letting some people know that I am fully capable of being a really good basketball player!
After a tough second seasons where your minutes dipped, you rebounded with a better third year and really took off with your game in your last 2 seasons as you averaged 34 minutes and 14.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 83.9% and 16.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 84.8%. How did your game grow in your last 2 seasons in the NCAA? My confidence and work ethic got 100% better! I worked on my mentality as well, really instilled in my head that I am fully capable of being a great basketball player and needed to switch my mentality from nonchalant to being more aggressive and assertive. I went to every workout my grad year with the mindset of being a professional basketball player.
You had many great games in the NCAA like hitting Drexel with 21 points in an exciting 67-66 win or 26 points in a tough loss against Charleston in your last NCAA game where you nailed 7 three´s. What was your fondest game in the NCAA?
Playoff performances are always the best and most watched! I really enjoyed my performance against Charleston in the chip game because I knew I gave everything I had, we didn’t come out victorious but as a top player on the team you would rather perform when the lights are brightest then underperform.
You were teammates for 2 seasons with Leon Nahar who´s father Mike was drafted by the NBA and had a long and fruitful career. He didn´t play much. What memories will you have of him and how much potential does he have?
Leon is going to be a great college and professional player. He has dealt with injuries the last few years and has really been getting his body right to have a great year this year. He can space the floor with his shooting ability plus with his size he can play the 4 and some 3 depending on matchups. Great character and always has high energy.
How did head coach Geno Ford groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Ultimately just trusting me as a player over the years, took some time but he gave me the opportunity to go out there on the floor and do what I do without feeling any pressure my final two years at Stony Brook.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Anthony Roberts?
Never really played straight 1 on 1 with Anthony Roberts my junior year like that, but he would’ve won some for sure. We always competed when it came down to our 4v4 or 5v5 live periods in practice. An elite offensive scorer, definitely a guy that brought the best out of me defensively, a ton of respect.
Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court Ochai Agbaji of the 2021 Kansas NCAA title team.
Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?
I’ve had so many teammates that I can’t even really pick 5 lol. All of those guys were really cool and always respected me as a person and player.
What is your personal NBA mount rushmore of past or present heads? MJ, Lebron, Kobe, Shaq, Stephen Curry
Who is your GOAT and why?
I truly don’t have one. I like a ton of players and I like Lebron and MJ the same!
Did you see the sequel to the classic coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
I haven’t seen the sequel, but I can honestly say I didn’t want to see it because movies nowadays do a terrible job on reboots. Just keep the classics classic.
Uzziah Dawkins (188-G-1999, college: Converse) is a 188cm from Spartanburg, South Carolina playing his rookie season in Germany with Lok Bernau currently averaging 18.8ppg, 3,3rpg, 2,4apg and 1,9spg. He began his basketball career at Spartanburg high school and then played 2 seasons at Erskine College averaging 6.6ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 57.7% and 9.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 79.3%. He then played a season at Davidson Davie Community College (JUCO) averaging 7.7ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 60.8%. He then finished at Converse College (NCAA2) averaging 14.6ppg, 4.6rpg, 3.9apg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 39.2%, FT: 65.3% and in his last season averaged 19.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 74.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Uzziah for talking to germanhoops.com You’re a rookie overseas with German pro B team Lok Bernau. How thrilled are you to be playing your rookie season in Germany? I am very thrilled! This is a dream come true so I’m excited to get started and make the most of this opportunity.
You’re an ex juco and Division 2 player. Not many guys with a resume like yours make it overseas. How blessed do you feel and do you have a chip on your shoulder?
I am blessed to be in this position but I am also blessed to have played juco and division 2 because it made me the player and person I am today. I do have a chip on my shoulder because I know how hard it was to get here and I know how hard it is to stay here and be successful but I’m ready for it.
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Have you ever had any former teammates of friends or ex opponents ball in Germany? I’ve learned a lot more recently and since I have been watching I can tell that the basketball here is very competitive and there is some great talent. I also have had a few friends play in Germany years ago.
You have joined the organization Lok Bernau. What were the main reasons for joining besides liking it´s family atmosphere? I really enjoyed the talks I had with coach Oppland leading up to signing. I can tell winning is important to him and from watching film it seems like there are guys on the team already who are passionate about winning so I love that.
How cool will it be battling everyday against some of the best young talented Germans? Guys like Franz Wagner and Moritz Wagner began their careers there? I think it’s going to be great for me and it’s only going to make me better. That’s exciting because that’s shows you just how good the competition here is to have produced great players like those 2 guys.
How did the talks go with head coach Dan Oppland? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?
The talks were great and that was another reason I fell in love with the organization. From the talks I can tell he wants to play fast,smart and tough and that’s something I love to do.
You will belong to the older guys on the team. Are you ready to be a leader for the young Germans? How would you classify your leadership skills?
Yes I am ready. I have been a leader on the majority of the teams I have been on so now at this age it’s something that comes natural so I am ready to lead on and off the court. I would say my leadership skills are great I am someone that likes to lead by example but I also feel I can verbalize in a way that make people want to listen.
You’re a 188cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I would compare my game to Jalen Brunson and Kyrie Irving. I watch a lot of film on those two guys so I steal a lot of things they use and try to implement them in my game.
Talk a little about your game. You can fill the stat sheet with ease. What is your biggest strength on the court? I would say my biggest strength is scoring but I think the best part of my game is being versatile and not just scoring from one area of the floor. I can post smaller guards, mid range, catch and shoot 3s or off the dribble so I think that´s what makes me most affective.
You have continued to improve your three pointer and were near scratching the 40% mark. How would you classify your three development and what is your goal this season with your shot? My development has come a long way thanks to some great coach’s who believed in me and countless hours in the gym have got my shot where it is today. I want to keep extending my range and getting my shot as fast as I can and shoot over 40% this year.
Your also a very determined defender. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become in the next years?
I feel like over the years that’s been a part of my game that has grown a lot. I try to pride myself on not getting scored on so that’s big to me. I want to continue to grow and be an even better on ball defender and off ball defender.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game best?
This summer has been more about getting a lot of reps in different pick and roll coverages and making the right reads because I feel like that is something used a lot at this level and I want to be elite in that.
You began your career at Erskine College (NCAA2) averaging 6.6ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 57.7% and 9.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 79.3%. What kind of an experience was it playing for Lee Sartor? How did he help your game best in your younger years?
A lot of people don’t know but coach Lee was one of my first basketball coaches when I was a little kid so he has been helping me as a basketball player for many years before I even got to college. When I got to college he just believed in me and gave me a chance to do the things he helped teach me over the years.
You then played at Davidson Davie Community College (JUCO) winning a chip and averaging 7.7ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 60.8%. What was so special about that team? The special part about that team was that we were a big family and we were competitive. Being on that team made me a winner and showed me what it takes to win a championship so that was big in my development as a player.
Every guy I have interviewed that played Juco has said that Juco was a grind, but all worth it. How was it for you?
That’s really the best way to describe it. For me it was the best experience in my life on and off the court. It made me grow up but having a great coach like Coach Ridge who really cares about his players more than winning made the experience that much better.
You then finished at Converse College (NCAA2) averaging 14.6ppg, 4.6rpg, 3.9apg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 39.2%, FT: 65.3% and 19.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 74.0%. Your game made big strides in these 2 years. How did you become a better player?
I would say the work I put in over the summer getting my body in shape conditioning lifting and staying in the gym helped me take my game to another level when I got to converse.
You had some massive games at Converse against NGU and Coker just to name a few. What was your biggest highlight on the court at Converse?
My biggest highlight at converse would be against NGU when we came back to win trailing by 14 points with about 6 minutes left. I scored my career high and got my first double so that was a big game for me but it was also a big win for the team because we needed that conference win.
How did head coach Nick Pasqua groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
Coach Pasqua helped me so much taking my game to the next level and believing in me. He gave me a chance to play basketball when a lot of schools didn’t. Coach P loves the game and he’s an offensive guru when it comes to basketball so his offense and putting me in the right spots to make plays helped prepare my game to have a breakout college season but also prepare me for the next level.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or CJ Jamison?
Me and Cj had some great practice battles but I usually win.
Who is the best player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? The best player I played in college would have to be Jordan Floyd.
Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?
What is your personal NBA mount rushmore of past or present heads? Lebron, Steph, Shaq, Jordan, Kobe
Who is your GOAT and why? Lebron James, I think Lebron is the goat because he has surpassed all the expectations that people had for him and has been great for such a long period of times. There’s nothing on the court he can’t do
Did you see the sequel to the classic coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I have not seen the sequel.
Malik Riddle is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheinStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with eurobasket.com every week to talk basketball.
A tough 114-110 double overtime loss. It was the second OT type game loss in a row. Is the basketball God annoying you guys a bit at the moment? No I just felt like we just didn’t make the right plays that we needed during the whole game.
Do you feel like teams are scouting the RheinStars better in the second half?
I think so but also we need to make adjustments during the game. We also did not get stops like we need to.
It was one of those games where one team would punch and in the next quarter the other would punch back. In the second quarter the RheinStars punched back. What was key for having the lead at the break? We were getting stops and getting out and getting easy baskets.
In the second half they punched the RheinStars, but you fought back in the fourth quarter. Ruppert Hennen tied the game at 89 and you stopped them to force OT. How fortunate were you to reach the OT?
Very fortunate I feel we were locked in during that moment and showed how focused we can be as a team when we need to at times.
That first OT was very fortunate again for Cologne as Alston missed a second free throw with one second to play. What was missing from you guys just to finish them off? We just didn’t finish on offense as well as not getting consecutive stops and rebounding.
In the second OT the RheinStars went on a 4-0 run, but allowed Ehingen to come back. Is it fair to say that the RheinStars would have won the game without having to battle Jaylen Alston? Yeah he was having a great game probably one of the best I’ve been a part of and we let him go off this game.
You had 9 points and not your best shooting day, but had 3 steals. Was your injury still hindering your play a bit? It has been difficult for me with the injury hopefully I can use the break to heal properly.
The Pro B now has a 2 week break. What do the RheinStars Cologne have to do better in the next games?
We have to lock in more on defense like we did the beginning of the season. We have to come out the gate with intensity.
It won´t get any easier as you paly Wurzburg who beat you in the first game. What will be key to getting win? Defense is the key. We have to play better collectively and finish with rebounding. Our intensity and urgency need to be better as a whole.
Imagine being in a restaurant in Berlin or Munich and all of a sudden a tall blond man walks by. Many people not only basketball nerds would recognize NBA champion Dirk Nowitzki. But one doesn´t only have to be Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder or Franz Wagner to be recognized by young German kids dreaming of playing professional basketball. For Namori Omog (188-G-2006), he would surely be able to know right away who those 3 German superstars are, but now adays with the NBA being so popular, young German kids don´t only recognize the German players, but even NBA superstars in the making. Namori Omog had that opportunity during his year in the States when he went to a high school in Atlanta, Georgia. “I was in a restaurant in Atlanta and saw Anthony Edwards. I saw him in the distance and called to him and he talked with me. He answered questions and had no problem posing with pics with me. What I really liked about him was that he is exactly the way he is presented in the media. That was one of my greatest basketball moments off the court while on the court playing against France with the U-15 national team. It was great measuring up against the biggest French talents and it really helped my game”, stressed Namori Omog, Omog is a big German talent playing with the NBBL (U-19) team of Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners and the Pro B team Frankfurt Skyliners.
Anthony Edwards followed by Rudy Gobert in Boston in 2024
Namori Omog who lists Ivan Kharchenkov, Eric Reibe, Justin Onyejiaka, Ivan Crnjac and Jordan Samare as his best teammates of all-time was born on July 26th, 2006 and grew up in Wiesbaden. He has a younger brother and had a nice childhood. He tried out many sports as a young boy including soccer and began to play basketball at age 6 and then decided to stick with it. Like most young kids he had special basketball role models and chose Lebron James and Kyrie Irving. “I always respected Lebron´s story going from a rough childhood and being able to go so far. I like his personality which really has inspired me. I also like how he stands for political views and has had a great family. I also liked Kyrie Irving as I always liked how he played the game and I always wanted to play like he did”, stated Namori Omog. He then came to Frankfurt and played with their U-14 team. “My favorite Skyliner then was Isaac Bonga. I really was impressed how far he was able to go as a young player. My goal was always to follow in his footsteps”, added Namori Omog.
Namori Omog and Jamie Edoka
Last season the quick guard who lists Lebron James as his GOAT played a good role with Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners U19 team averaging 7.9ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.9apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 13.3%, FT: 56.1%, and also played 2 Pro B games. “I think that I did a good job defensively that season pressuring guards and disrupting opponents offenses and was a good leader and organizing the offense, but I needed to have had better decision making”, remembered Namori Omog. He scored in double figures in 3 games last season including 18 points against Hanau,15 points against Heidelberg and 13 points against Sud Hessen. He has high goals for this season as he wants to become even more dangerous in many different ways. “I want to improve my decision making and on offense be able to not only use my quickness to make easy lay ups, but score from various distances including using a floater”, said Namori Omog. This season´s team is very talented and who knows could make some noise in the playoffs again. The team has a massive leader with Ivan Crnjac and with Jamie Edoka, Omog are a potent duo at the guard position especially at the defensive end. “Ivan is very talented. You could already see that with his performances last season. This season he is showing just how good of a shooter he is and that he has a big advantage over other players. Jamie is very athletic and already very far with his development physically. We have the opportunity to pressure guards and put them in difficult situations for a whole game. I think we could become a top defensive duo in the NBBL”, warned Namori Omog. This season he continues to get Pro B minutes which will continue to bolster his development. “I have noticed that the Pro B isn´t youthlike, but adultlike. I know where my boundries are and what steps I need to make. I have to play more smart and not count on my first instincts. I have to show something, but then actually do it differently”, warned Namori Omog. In the NBBL (U-19) league he is averaging 8,5ppg, 3,0rpg, 5,0apg and 2,5spg while in the Pro B is averaging 4,0ppg, 1,5rpg and 1,4apg. He scored 14 points against Pro B team Wurzburg.
The 188cm guard who lists Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Magic Johnson on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore compares his game to the athletic and explosive Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies. “I love his energy. He is always positive and is able to transform his energy to his teammates. He shows his energy in his athleticism. He is always active on offense and always supplying much pressure on defense. I want to be able to be aggressive at both ends and always use my energy to help my team”, warned Namori Omog. He is a player that excels with his defensive aggressiveness, quickness with the ball and his finishing while his outside shot is still a work in progress. He fills the stat sheet extremely well, but stats aren´t high on his menu, but versatility is. “We have a lot of potential on the NBBL team. Winning is the most important thing for me and helping my team with my versatility. I believe that I can impact the game in many ways. I just try to be there for my teammates at all times”, warned Namori Omog. Even if he has a potent offensive game, it could be his defense that really will carry him in his development this season. “I feel like I´m an aggressive defender now and be successful with my quickness and disrupt other teams offense over the whole court. I feel like I have more potential to read where the passes will go. I will work on it. I don´t only want to be successful with my quickness, but also use my IQ”, stressed Namori Omog.It will be interesting to see where his journey will go in the next few years. One thing is for sure, a lot of the success of this year´s Frankfurt NBBL team rests in his hands. His aggressive and potent defensive game could be the difference in many games this season especially in the post season.
German Hoops 