Quantez Robertson (188-SG-1984, college: Auburn, agency: Interperformances) is a former professional player that played 14 seasons for only one organization with the Fraport Skyliners. He won the 2016 FIBA Europe Cup and reached the 2010 easyCredit BBL final. His stats for 14 years were 479 games, 4,425 points, 2217 rebounds, 742 steals in 15,034 minutes. He spoke to germanhoops.com on his 40th birthday.
Happy Birthday Tez. How does it feel to be 40 years old? It really doesn´t feel any different. It is a nice round figure.
Would you feel less old if you were still active as a player? Yes I think so. I´d be lying if said no.
How are you celebrating the big 40 today? Right now I´m with my baby girl. We will go to dinner and hang out.
No big 40th birthday? Not on a Monday.
How cool is it now celebrating in the States as opposed to in Germany? What is different?
It is different because now I´m at home and can celebrate with family in friends. In Germany I celebrated with my team who were my extended family.
Was it a challenge as a kid celebrating it less than a week before Xmas? Did you still get enough presents? Not really. They had to ration it out. Half now and half on Christmas.
How does a birthday like this feel different than the last big one 10 years ago? I was still playing ball 10 years ago. Now I´m watching my kids become great athletes.
What are you most thankful about now that you have reached 40?
I´m thankful for good health, having had a great career, my wife who made me a cake every year even if some of them looked funny and my kids.
What were some of the gifts that you got from your kids? No yet, but they will. Last year my daughter gave me a hat and shirt while my son gave me a wallet with a couple of dollars.
Who were some of the ballers that congratulated you for your birthday?
Some of the guys from the Skyliners. The Skyliners congratulated me on social media and posted some nice highlight clips and pics. Family and friends also congratulated me.
How is retired life treating you? You have a new coaching job right? I´m coaching in Juco at Tennessee Valley Community Christian
Jordan Theodore is back for a third time. How cool is that?
That is pretty nice to see. He will make things happen again like in the past. He made a post saying he wants to be like me and play many years with the Skyliners
Will Theodore be able to get the Skyliners back on track? I think he will. He still has some good basketball in him. He has shown that in the last years.
Who wins a 1-1 today you or Jordan Theodore? It will be close, but I will get him.
The up and down weeks of the EPG Guardians Koblenz continue last week in Hagen as they couldn´t follow up the massive win at home against Tuebingen which was possibly the biggest victory for Koblenz up to that stand point in the season. The next opponent on paper was ex easyCredit BBL team Hakro Merlins who surprisingly were only at 6-6 in the standings and dumpling around in no man´s land of the standings at one spot higher than the Guardians. Crailsheim is a team filled with unending offensive power, but on the defensive end at times can be beaten if attacked correctly. Once again Koblenz was home again looking for a massive answer after a loss and after beating Tuebingen were very focused to be that next BBL spoiler. Ex Guardian big man Gabriel De Olveira was back in his old stomping ground and extra motivated looking to mix it up with his ex teammates. On a very mild Monday night the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim jumped all over the EPG Guardians and dominated the game for 40 minutes with their physicality, brutal 1-1 qualities and three point efficiency. “We played a good game for 40 minutes. Our aggressive defense did a good job not letting them get to the free throw line. We are a great offensive team, but our emphasis is defense. When we do that well, our offense takes care of it´s self. We are now chasing the top teams. Every win is important”, stressed Crailsheim guard Devon Goodman (184-PG-1997, college: Pennsylvania). The EPG Guardians had problems all night getting into their sets and getting good shots. The tough Merlins physicality haunted Crailsheim all night long. “They are a big tough team. Their physicality was tough. We played until the end and gave our best. Whenever we punched, they punched back and then all started hitting three´s. We have to live with it”, stressed Koblenz guard Allin Blunt.
Ty Cockfield at the FT line
In the first quarter the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim got going quickly and got a big lead and never looked back leading easily 28-15 after 10 minutes. Crailsheim took the rapid 10-2 lead as ex Rhondorf guard Tyreese Blunt added 5 points while ex Nurnberg Forward Anthony Gaines made a lay in and ex Tuebingen center Danniel Keppler made a lay in. Koblenz had massive problems containing their physicality and athleticism on the drive. Crailsheim´s aggressive and good 1-1 defense didn´t allow Koblenz into their sets and the Guardians were unable to get them more often into the set play, but allowed them to run. Ty Cockfield was the only Guardian that was somewhat aggressive as he got 4 points on the free throw line. The Merlins continued to be aggressive attacking the paint as Keppler continued to execute with a hard 2 handed dunk and runner for the 14-4 advantage. Koblenz finally began to execute going on a 6-2 run to trail 16-10 as they were aggressive and were rewarded with 3 buckets inside from Adi-Eri, ex BBL player Leon Friederici and Czech Republic forward David Boehm. But that punch didn´t rattle Crailsheim as they closed out the first quarter strong with a 12-5 run to lead by 13 minutes after one quarter. In the run, the guests received got super support from their bench as ex Liberty University (NCAA) forward Brock Gardner supplied 5 points with a three pointer while ex Arizona Christian University (NAIA) player Callum Lawson also added 5 points with a trey. Koblenz got little support except from American Michael Bradley who supplied 5 points and a trey. “We were unable to match their physicality at both ends. They have great 1-1 qualities”, stressed EPG Guardians sport director Thomas Klein.
Allin Blunt from downtown
In the second quarter the EPG Guardians picked up their game at both ends, but still were far away from getting over the hump as Crailsheim led by 13 points at the break. Koblenz was wide awake in the first 3 minutes going on a 6-0 run to trail 28-21 as the guests were stopped 5 times. The EPG Guardians were aggressive attacking the rim and getting 2 buckets from Friederici and one from ex Canadian and ex Laurier big man Ben Stevens. Koblenz did a good job getting past the first pass which then gave the Merlins problems as Koblenz was in the set play. Ex FC Bayern Munich NBBL player Mohammed Sillah finally got the Merlins on the board at the 6,57 minute mark with an offensive rebound and putback to lead 30-21. Koblenz continued to execute and hang in there going on a 7-3 run to trail only 33-28. In the run, they got support from Allin Blunt with a trey and 4 points in the paint by Stevins. But there is only so much time a team like the Merlins can´t be in total offense mode as they struck back fiercely and closed out the second quarter with a lethal 16-6 run to extend their lead to 48-34 at half-time. In the run the Merlins got three pointers from Tyreese Blunt and ex North Dakota State (NCAA) Vinnie Shahid and a floater by Keppler and another lay in by Tyreese Blunt. “We played better, but missed to many easy shots. We could have had at least 10 points more. We still gave up too many transition baskets and allowed them to often to the free throw line.
Ladarian Griffin at the FT line
In the third quarter the EPG Guardians had a solid scoring quarter with 21, but couldn´t make any ground allowing 29 points as the Blunt and Goodman show took over giving the Merlins the comfortable 77-55 advantage after 3 quarters. Before the Blunt and Goodman show could commence, it was actually the Leon Friderici show that took off. The ex Heidelberg sniper erupted for 8 points nailing 2 three´s and making a thunderous 2 hand dunk after making a steal. The EPG Guardians were still in striking distance trailing only 56-44. Friederici was without a doubt the best Guardian on this night as he carried the club on his shoulders. Crailsheim then went on a 13-6 run to lead 69-50 as Devin Goodman took over. He had shown these explosions in the Pro B with Rhondorf 2 seasons ago and did again in this run scoring 11 of the 13 points including 2 three´s. Goodman then turned over the scoring to Tyrese Blunt who closed out the third quarter with 8 points and 2 three´s. He especially liked the left corner. “Goodman is a great man creator and shot maker while Blunt just knocks down three´s. It hurt us mentally whenever they punched back. We just tried to stay positive. We just have to take the best out of this game we can. It was a real learning experience”, stated Allin Blunt. “We shot well as a team. They were hard hedging a lot so the corners were open. We did a good job with the extra pass”, added Devon Goodman.
Tyreese Blunt from outside
In the fourth quarter both teams executed well as the EPG Guardians continued not being able to match the Merlins physicality on the defensive end. Koblenz began with 3 stops, but only got rewarded with one bucket by Ben Stevens to trail 77-57. Ex Sienna (NCAA) forward Anthony Gaines got Crailsheim on the board at the 7,54 minute mark as they led 79-57. Koblenz had a good phase again getting a trey by Friederici and lay in by Adi-Eri and a floater by Stevens to trail 82-65. Crailsheim then put a lid on the game going on a brutal 12-4 run to lead 94-69. In the run, they continued to let it fly from outside as Keppler and Gardner nailed three´s while Goodman made a lay in. The game was long over with a few minutes to play as both teams traded baskets as ex St Bonaventure (NCAA) forward Ladarien Griffin made a lay in and Keppler a floater while Friederici made a lay in and David Boehm closed out the game with a deep three. “We controlled the game until the end. We did a good job containing Cockfield. We made him finish over the bigs. We wanted to close out the game strong”, commented Devon Goodman. “The game was physical and we were tired. We just wanted to keep pushing until the end, rebound and fight despite being tired”, expressed Allin Blunt. The Hakro Merlins Crailsheim were led by Devon Goodman with 23 points while Tyreese Blunt added 21 points and Daniel Keppler 15 points while the EPG Guardians Koblenz were led by Leon Friederici with 19 points. The Hakro Merlins Crailsheim shot 54% from the field and 39% from outside and had 30 rebounds and 10 turnovers while the EPG Guardians Koblenz shot 41% from the field and 43% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 13 turnovers.
Erol Ersek (194-SF-1999) is a 25 year old 194cm guard from Austria playing his first season with the MLP Academics Heidelberg (BBL). He played the last 3 seasons for the Tigers Tuebingen. He began his basketball career in Austria with the Vienna DC Timberwolves and also spent a year in USA at Pacific Grove High School, Pacific Grove, California. He played in the FC Bayern Munich organization from 2016-2021. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the massive 69-67 win over top team rastiopharm Ulm.
Congrats Erol on the huge 69.67 win over ratiopharm Ulm. You and the MLP Academics are in first place. How crazy is that?
It is crazy. Especially seeing all the feedback on social media. But we also know that the season isn´t even half over yet. This is indeed a super feeling. We have to enjoy it.
Is Heidelberg a city that will go crazy after a win like that and having first place? The fans here are obviously very excited. Last season wasn´t a great one so the excitement is obvious. The fan support is super.
If someone had told you in September that shortly before Christmas the MLP Academics would be in first place what would you have thought? I would of never believed it. I had a lot of confidence in this team already in pre-season. I thought that we had a good group of guys, but having this kind of success is great.
I know that this is a tough question, but how cool would a ULM-Heidelberg final be in June 2025?
That would be cool. But we know that is very far away and a lot has to happen. Ulm always has a great atmosphere and it is a great derby, but way too early to talk about things like that.
Let´s talk about the game. With what kind of a mindset did you go into the game? Ulm was on a 5 game winning streak and you had lost against MBC allowing 100 points?
That is correct. The loss against MBC was tough. I think that we found ourselves again last week in practice. We went into the game knowing that we had to play aggressive, play together and believe in our system. We were definitely very excited to play against a great team in a cool arena. We were definitely very motivated.
At halftime ratio Ulm had the comfortable 48-33 lead. You had allowed 20 points in the first quarter, but 28 points in the second quarter. Defense is a big part of the Academics identity, but we all know has been inconsistent this season. What was key defensively that allowed Ulm to explode in the second quarter? We made too many defensive mistakes. We had problems getting over screens. Ulm did a good job stepping up their game a bit more and delivered a lot of pressure on us and forced us to turnovers. That helped them get out on transition.
How was the mood in the locker room? I can imagine Danny Jansson wasn´t pleased. What did he tell the team? He wasn´t happy, but was able to wake us up. He just told us to play our game and not let them dictate it. He also told us that we were only down 15 minutes which wasn´t the world. He was loud, but gave us energy.
He must have had the right words as Heidelberg allowed only 19 points in the second half. That is incredible. What adjustments did the team make on the defensive end? We were more aggressive and just smarter with the mismatches. We knew that they have very good individual class with great shooters and drivers like Karim Jallow. We were also more aggressive as a team. We got great support from Michael Weathers on the defensive end. His great play sparked us. He put great pressure on them and had 5 steals.
The MLP Academics went on a little run. Do you believe that the team aspect was able to get into the focus in the third quarter? Many guys stepped up. Yes the team aspect was huge. That is a great strength of ours. We have some great scorers with Mikesell and Horne, but many other solid scorers. We have much versatility on the scoring end
What did head coach Danny Jansson tell the team down 60-50 after 3 quarters to do going forward in the fourth quarter? He told us that we were only down 10 points, 5 less than at the break. He just told us to keep playing our game and keep the energy up.
Heidelberg went on a lethal 13-0 run a to lead 63-60 and Ulm didn´t get their first points until the 3,11 minute mark. Do you feel like they were challenged mentally with that run? The momentum changed in our favor. I feel like it affected them mentally.
In the last minute Barcello and Horne nailed clutch 3 pointers to seal the win. What was the biggest strength on this night? Our biggest strength in the game was us sticking together and pushing each other forward and having great energy. When somebody does something great, then 10 guys will tell you it´s nice. That pushes you forward.
What was your impression of Ulm´s 2 big talents Saraf and Essengue who most likely will get drafted by NBA teams. Are these guys that much better than guys like Yourself, Weideman or Vrcic back in the day when you were youth players?
They are both very young and have great quality. They didn´t have their best games, but you can´t await that from young players. The potential is huge for both.
How special is it always playing against your ex teammate Nelson Weidemann who won the 2017 NBBL title with you and FC Bayern Munich. How potential does he still have now? We were teammates for a long time and were roommates. It is always nice to see him. I´m happy for his situation in Ulm. He is playing a good season and has a cool role. I know what he can do. He is a hard worker and very disciplined.
You were top scorer of the team with 14 points. It was your best scoring game of the season. Was it extra special because of beating top team Ulm?
Yes it was. It feels even better with a win and then being able to celebrate. I had a good start with shots falling. I felt good and it was nice to see my shot falling early.
How happy were you with your game? You had 14 points in 22 minutes and were very efficient. I was happy with my game. I made my first 3 shots and after that Danny drew up some plays for me. My teammates looked for me. I got more room with Horne and Mikesell driving.
This was a big win. The next opponent is Bamberg. This is the Christmas game at home. Bamberg is playing well as of late having beat Alba Berlin and Bonn. What will be key to winning? We just have to play our game and be aggressive and stick together no matter who we play.
Who won a 1-1 in 2017 and who wins today you or Nelson Weidemann? We played often. I don´t remember who won more, but I will always take myself.
Michael Weathers (190-G-1997, college: SMU) is a 26 year old 190cm guard from Shawnee Mission, Kansas that is playing his third professional season and first in Germany with easyCredit BBL team MLP Academics Heidelberg. Last season he played with IMMOunited Dukes Klosterneuburg (Austria-BSL) averaging 22.5ppg, 7.1rpg, 4.3apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), Blocks-1 (1.7bpg), FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 75.7%. He played his rookie season with KK Sutjeska Niksic (Montenegro-Erste Liga) averaging 15.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, Blocks-4 (1.0bpg), FGP: 64.5%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 80.5. He began his basketball career at / Shawnee Mission Northwest High School. He proceeded to play at 4 NCAA schools with Miami University (NCAA) averaging 12.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 72.9%. He then played a season with Oklahoma State University (NCAA) averaging 9.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 62.7%. He then played at Texas Southern University (NCAA) averaging 16.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 3.4apg, 2.1spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 79.5% and in his last season played with Southern Methodist University (NCAA) averaging 11.0ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 79.8%: He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball before arriving in Heidelberg this season.
Thanks Michael for talking to germanhoops.com After playing in Montenegro and Austria,you’re your playing in a top league in Europe. How excited are you to be playing in Germany?
I’m very excited to be playing in Germany. I have heard nothing but spectacular things about the German BBL, I’m always excited to take on a new challenges in my life and taking this step was huge for me, again i’m just blessed to be able to play this game at a high level, I’ve never been more excited for a season
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball?
During my season in Austria I started doing more digging on leagues around the world and my teammates were telling me the BBL is one of the toughest leagues you could play in so I watched Bayern and Alba and other teams around the league. The style of play is fast pace which I think favors my game a lot because I love to play in transition and downhill so with the athleticism of the BBL I think it matches me perfectly. From the fans standpoint I have seen how passionate the fans are about their teams and ‘m ready to witness this in person and see how crazy it can get.
Have you had any friends, former teammates or opponents play in Germany? I have had a couple former teammates play in Germany, Jeffery Carrol, Eric Washington and a Kansas city native that played last year Elijah Childs
You decided to join the MLP Academics Heidelberg. What was so enticing about joining this ambitious organization?
Last year after watching the games in the BBL, I told my brother and former teammates over and over again that Germany BBL is the place that I have to play, I have to get in this league and get in front of these fans. With that MLP Academics Heidelberg was the first team to offer me and from speaking to the coach I loved his vision and the message he preaches. Playing for people that care about you is the number one thing that’s big for me and for someone to take a opportunity on you that means that they believe in your ability, From our first conversation I knew that coach Jansson was a man that believed in me and I couldn’t thank him enough for calling to me getting me on board
How did the talks go with head coach Danny Jansson. What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy? I think the thing that most intrigued me was the relationships that he wants to build with his players. Playing basketball will always be there for people but those ever long lasting relationships you build with people is an unbelievable thing. From the basketball side of things I know that he preaches defense and that’s my biggest thing as well, but the offensive side of things is going to shock a lot of people this year.
Your were the third best scorer in Austria a league that many Americans use as a stepping stone to reach higher leagues. Do you feel like your scoring will adapt well to the more physical BBL league? Adaptation is my biggest thing being a basketball player, with the BBL being a physical league I always look forward to it. I think scoring will open my game up to another level in the BBL because of the physicality, drawing fouls is something I look to do, draw contact
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? If I had to compare my game to one NBA player I would either say Derrick Rose or Russel Westbrook. Because of their impact on winning they do the little things for their team to win games and that that is something that inspires.
Your scoring really stood out in Austria, but you have always filled the stat sheet well. How big is versatility a part of your game? I think being a versatile player in today’s game is a huge deal, I always pride myself on trying to win no matter what it takes and being a swiss army knife is something I try to do every game. Scoring is a big part of basketball but for me doing everything else like rebounding, blocking shots, taking charges, passing I think those are the stats that are more important in my opinion
You shot the ball really well in your first 2 pro seasons with 40% and 36%. What is your goal this season with your three pointer? Do you see yourself becoming an elite shooter over time? This season is definitely a season that I want to strive to become a better player and everyone has always raised the question of my shooting ability but this is the year that I make that question go away. This season I want to shoot 40% or better but overtime I want to become a guy that you can’t leave open or he’s going to make you pay.
You are an incredible defensive player that has averaged over 1 steal and block per game. What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I think right now where I’m at defensively, I’m a guy that helps the helper, i want to become a defensive player at one moment in my career just because I have always been breaded to play defense. My mom always preached defense and from the moment of her saying that I have always been a teammate that you know you can rely on to get that crucial stop or blocked shot. I want to become one of those defenders that gives you nightmares every time we match up. Like Tony Allen or Klay Thompson
On what other areas are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
Right Now I have been working on reading pick and rolls at the next level, shot making, and getting my body in the best shape possible to last for however long the season goes.
Last season you played with the IMMOunited Dukes Klosterneuburg (Austria-BSL) averaging 22.5ppg, 7.1rpg, 4.3apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), Blocks-1 (1.7bpg), FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 75.7%. You played an exciting playoff series against UBSC Graz. What will you always remember from that series?
One moment that I’ll always remember is forcing a game 5 on the road and coming back home victorious. That bus ride was the best I’ve ever been on. But also the fans coming out and selling out the gym was something big for the organization
You played your rookie season with KK Sutjeska Niksic (Montenegro-Erste Liga) averaging 15.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, Blocks-4 (1.0bpg), FGP: 64.5%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 80.5%; and in the Adriatic League 2 averaged 17.3ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.8spg, 1.3bpg. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
I think my wake up call was my first day of practice getting right off the plane and jumping straight into practice and the time difference when I would call my family back home and it would be broad daylight outside and it’s nighttime where I’m at.
You played at 4 schools with Miami University, Oklahoma State, Texas Southern University and SMU. How vital was it for you to have had this vast experience of playing at 4 schools. What did your game get that it wouldn’t have had with only 1 school experience?
I think playing for so many schools and coaches helped me understand the adaptive ability that I use today. Learning a little bit from each coach helps my maturing so when freshmen or transfers would come in I would be able to help them out and get them to understand a coach’s message.
You had a solid freshman season at Miami University (NCAA) averaging 12.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 72.9%. How was it being teammate with your brother Marcos. What was your fondest moment with him there? Playing with your twin brother is an always an amazing feeling and memory in itself. My brother has helped me learn so much on and off the court and will always be my right hand man. But the fondest memory I would say me and my brother had was that we were down 16 on the road at Akron and we came back and won and my brother hit the go ahead game winner and I was the proudest brother in the world because not only did we win, I got to see my brother shine in that moment.
You then played at Oklahoma State University (NCAA) averaging 9.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 62.7%. There you were teammates with really talented guys like Lindy Waters, Cameron Mcgriff and Isaac Likekele. Which one of these guys had the biggest impact on you? I would say that Cam Mcgriff and Lindy Waters both had a huge impact on me because of the fact that they were older and helped me a lot when I transferred to Ok State. I thought I was going to be a guy that was alone but they accepted me with open arms.
You then played a season with Texas Southern University) averaging 16.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 3.4apg, 2.1spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 79.5%. You won the SWAC title. Is it fair to say that this was your best NCAA season? You had massive games that season. This was definitely the best season for me in my college career. Coming to Texas Southern was a moment I would never forget. Coach Johnny Jones from day 1 laid out the plan for me and we executed it all the way throughout the season.
You scored 24 points against Michigan and was the best player on the floor with guys like Franz Wagner present. How much did a game like this give you confidence that you could play with anyone? Playing against Franz Wagner in that Michigan team was a huge matchup and most people would back down because of the name across the chest. But playing against stars like that brings out the best in me. I have always had a motto to get respect, you have to earn it and that’s what I try to do every night on the floor and playing in a game like that boosts my confidence to the ceiling.
You finished your NCAA career at Southern Methodist University (NCAA) averaging 11.0ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 79.8%. How cool was it to be back on a team with brother Marcus? What was your fondest memory with him at SMU? Being back on the floor with my brother was like a breath of fresh air. It’s been so long since we’ve played with each other and to do it one last time for our college career was amazing. I think the most fondest memory was when we took down the Houston cougars when they were ranked 6th in the country. The students rushed the floor it was amazing
How did head coach Tim Jankovic groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Coach Tim Jankovic Gave me a lot of confidence heading into my professional career. he helped me become a better player and better leader when it came to helping others.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Kendric Davis? I’m going to say me just because I have a little more height and I jump higher
Who was the toughest player that you ever faced that reached the NBA? The toughest player I would say would have to be Franz Wagner
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? My brother, Logan Mclane, Zuric Phelps, Cam Mcgriff, Lindy Waters
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?
1.Lebron 2.Kobe 3.Jordan 4.tim Duncan 5.Shaq
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 Liked the movies I thought they were pretty entertaining, Now the last one was little over the top but I still think they did a good job
After more than 6 weeks on the road, the Frankfurt Skyliners finally were back in their own living room. They couldn´t take advantage of the road posting a dismal 1-4 record, but did reach the BBL cup top 4 with a big win in Goettingen. Despite that, they then lost a tough game in Wurzburg being totally overpowered in the last quarter. With a poor 2-7 record and near the BBL cellar, they were more than desperate for a win against the pesky 4-4 Braunschweig team who came to Frankfurt with a 2 game winning streak. An old friend was back for his third tour of duty with the Skyliners with Jordan Theodore who helped Frankfurt win the Fiba Europe Cup title in 2016. Frankfurt had a must win situation as another loss would continue their downward spiral in the standings. Despite another great scoring performance of the American duo of Calvin and Parsons who combined for 46 points, the Frankfurt Skyliners lost a heartbreaker 92-91 to the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig. Frankfurt fought hard for 40 minutes, but at the end it was the little mistakes that cost them the win. “We began the game very well playing at a high level. We played with a lot of confidence and had a good flow. But in the second quarter our tempo slowed up. We have to be able to maintain a high intensity and energy for 40 minutes. We lost focus mentally. It began with me and that trickled down to the rest”, stressed Frankfurt Skyliner Jordan Theodore. Braunschweig did a good job punching back whenever Frankfurt punched first and just did a great job staying poised in crunch-time and took advantage of the little mistakes that Frankfurt made. “We had a tough start as Frankfurt executed very well and hit shots. We knew we had to get stops in the second half and did a better job playing defense. Our biggest strength tonight was our grit. We never gave up. It was a real challenge playing against Calvin and Parsons”, stressed Braunschweig guard TJ Crockett (187-G-1999, college: Lindenwood).
David Muenkat at the FT line
5000 fans showed up in the Suwag arena in Frankfurt on a Friday night and saw the Frankfurt Skyliners totally overpower Braunschweig in the first quarter netting 31 points. Both teams found their rhythm quickly as ex Kentucky (NCAA) forward Tre Mitchell got his stroke going early netting 5 points, while Jordan Theodore found his touch as well making a trey. Frankfurt also got the arena cooking early as Canadian David Muenkat went coast to coast with a thunderous 2 handed dunk that had many in the arena jumping up and down as Frankfurt led 9-5. Frankfurt continued to execute well as Theodore launched another trey and connected and Einaras Tubutis made a lay in for the 16-10 lead, but Braunschweig punched back with a deep trey by Luka Scuka and a trey by TJ Crockett who had a little Damian Lillard going with his step back jumper to dead lock the contest at 16-16. “I hope it looked a little like him. I really try to imitate his game”, smiled TJ Crockett. But then out of nowhere the Frankfurt Skyliners exploded on a 15-4 run to lead 31-20 after one quarter. Ex Wright State guard Trey Calvin scored 8 unanswered points showing his potent scoring abilities with 2 three´s and a step back jumper. Parsons added free throws in the attack while Brenneke made a lay in and Calvin ended the scoring display with another three pointer. Frankfurt lived off their 1-1 play and totally flaunted it while Braunschweig got lost in Frankfurt´s momentum. “Every team is good in the BBL. They played pretty well for their spot in the standings. They executed at a high level”, stressed Ty Crockett.
Luka Scuka from outside
The Frankfurt Skyliners kept control in the second quarter, but allowed Braunschweig to get dangerously close in the last minutes and led only by 5 points at the break. Both teams produced runs in the first minutes as the guests began well with a 7-1 run as 2019 JBBL MVP Benjamin Schroeder got a lay in, Lithuanian point guard Arnas Velickas hit a deep three pointe and ex G-League player Barra Njie made a lay in as Frankfurt led only 32-27. However Frankfurt punched back with a 7-3 run to lead 38-30. In the run Muenkat delivered a hook shot while Theodore made 2 finger tip lay in´s as his speed and execution on the drive looked spot on and like 9 years ago when he was in Frankfurt for his first tour of duty. Frankfurt came back being aggressive on offense getting easy buckets in the paint from Brenneke and Coplin to lead 43-34. Braunschweig had their down phases on defense lacking intensity at times and Frankfurt took advantage of their little mistakes. The game of runs continued as Braunschweig punched back with a 8-2 run to trail 45-43. Braunschweig got the free throw line and continued to attack the paint area and used their quickness and athleticism to tear apart Frankfurt as Crockett and ex Vechta American Chavaras Flanigan scored easily while Velicka added 4 points in the run. “Ar as we call Velicka really runs the point well. He made big plays and is a big part of your success”, added Ty Crockett. Frankfurt got a massive basket at the end from ex Bremerhaven guard Garai Zeeb who made the most of his opportunity with limited minutes as he drilled home a three pointer and the 48-43 advantage at the break. “We had to get stops. We made it as difficult as possible for them and got out on transition”, said TJ Crockett.
Jordan Theodore with the finger tip lay in
The Basketball Lowen Braunschwieg had their strongest scoring quarter in the third quarter netting 26 points and stealing the lead back and led by 4 points after 30 minutes. Frankfurt came out slow and gave up 9 unanswered points as Braunschweig stole the lead back at 52-48. In the run the guests attacked the paint area getting free throws from Scuka and Njie while German Sanada Fru and Velicka scored easy lay ups. Frankfurt needed some instant energy and got it from 2024 Danish champion Malik Parsons who produced 6 points to tie the game at 54-54. Braunschweig kept chipping away and got free throws from Fru and another trey from Velicka to lead 59-54, but the one man show from Parsons continued as he made free throws and another lay in as Frankfurt trailed 59-56. Braunschweig continued to do a good job getting to the free throw line as Scuka and Flanigan scored to lead 65-58. If it wasn´t Parsons, then it was Calvinthzat showed responsibility and a real potent scoring attack as he steered home 5 straight points as Frankfurt trailed 65-63. Frankfurt continued to have massive difficulty with their 1-1 defense as Flanigan and ex Giessen guard Ferdinand Zylka scored for the 69-63. Frankfurt was lucky at the end that Velicka missed 2 free throws and served up an airball as they took advantage of that getting an off balance jumper from Minnesota native Booker Coplin in the corner to trail 69-65. “We rebounded better and got out on transition. We also got more touches inside and got to the free throw line and also made big plays”, stated TY Crockett. “We started slow and had no rhythm. That wasn´t Skyliner basketball. Parsons and Calvin were hot the whole game. I had to feed them the ball”, added Jordan Theodore.
Tre Mitchell at the FT line
In the fourth quarter the Frankfurt Skyliners just kept battling and never gave up. They received big shots from their American duo of Calvin and Parsons, but just couldn´t get totally over the hump. Frankfurt really did a good job all game long being aggressive and doing all they could to get to the rim. In the first few minutes of the fourth quarter they were rewarded with free throws from Parsons and Coplin and Parsons then nailed a trey to tie the game at 73-73. Mitchell gave braunschweig some energy with a pretty three pointer, but Frankfurt always had an answer as Parsons drilled home a three pointer to trail 78-77. Frankfurt continued to get no stops in the paint as Njie got free throws and even was aggressive on the offensive glass with a tip in and 84-79 Braunschweig lead. Frankfurt continued to have answers and executed well as Theodore made free throws and a lay in and Calvin nailed a deep three pointer to tie the game at 84-84 with 54 seconds remaining. Mitchell then countered with a pretty hook shot, but Parsons punched back with a lay in to tie the game at 86-86. ““We showed that we were mentally strong. We have had some tough loses this season. We showed resilience. We had a good attitude and just kept chipping away”, added Jordan Theodore. “We stayed together and just kept fighting. We never gave up”, warned Ty Crockett. With 15 seconds remaining, Ty Crockett made a clutch three pointer for the 89-86 lead. Calvin then made free throws to trail 89-88. Crockett them made one free throw and then got a crucial offensive rebound off his miss. That led to 2 more Velicka free throws and the 92-88 Braunschweig lead. “I was surprised I got back into the game. I had minutes restriction after coming back from injury. But coach drew up a play for me. I found my spot and made it”, stressed Ty Crockett. “The offensive rebound by Crockett was my fault. It bounced right back to him. That was crazy”, stressed Jordan Theodore. With 2,5 seconds to go and down 4 points, Trey Calvin made a crazy half court shot that banked in. Any other situation, it would have been the shot of the year and the arena would have been bedlam. Instead the arena was very quiet after it dropped in. “Maybe the league should make a 4 point shot. The arena would have gone crazy if it had been a 4 point shot”, smiled Jordan Theodore. The Basketball Lowen Braunschweig were led by Barra Njie, Arnas Velica and Luka Scuka with 15 points a piece while the Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Trey Calvin with 24 points and malik Parsons added 22 points. The Basketball Lowen Braun schweig shot 47% from the field and 33% from outside and had 25 rebounds and 14 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 55% from the field and 61% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 20 turnovers.
It is always a delight meeting another Miles in life. I mean Miles is a very rare name. Sometimes it is written Myles, but I actually have come across more names written Miles. It is even nicer when I meet a basketball player that shares my name. This season there is a new player balling in the German Pro A with the Tigers Tuebingen called Miles Tention (196-G-1999, college: St.Anselm). He like me hasn´t come across many Miles´s either in his life, so his response to meeting another Miles was just as enriching. “Oh another Miles great. I think I’ve met 3 other Miles’ ever, Miles Byrd who is a family friend, our dads coached together and he is currently playing college basketball at San Diego State University. One of my girlfriend’s family friends is a Miles, and finally Miles Simon, who I last knew was the coach of the South Bay Lakers – LA Lakers G League affiliate. He’s actually who I got the name Miles from, my dad coached at University of Arizona where Miles Simon won a national championship and was national player of the year”, stated Miles Tention. He has found his calling with basketball while I found my calling in my teenage years with running. Even before I began running, I heard that annoying line so often growing up with “your running for miles and miles or I can see for Miles and Miles”. Now when I look back on those days, I chuckle. I run almost everyday and I literally run for miles and miles and love it. Tention also heard his share of lines from people about his unique first name. “ That´s funny because same, run for miles and miles, or it´s only a miles long. (about 6 ½ feet) and my last name being Tention I also got some Attention jokes growing up”, remembered Miles Tention. For now Miles Tention is in Tuebingen to do his running on the court and try to help the Tigers Tuebingen reach the easyCredit BBL again.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber doing a training run around the Alster lake in Hamburg, Germany
Miles Tention who has seen his array of incredible players on the court and battled guys like Anfernee Simons of the Portland Trailblazers, and during the summer having worked out or played open gym with Jeremy Lin who´s a Palo Alto High School Alum, Jordan Poole, or Andre Iguodala was born on March 21st, 1999 in beautiful Palo Alto, California. He began his basketball career at Palo Alto high school and then spent a year in Connecticut at the ST Thomas More school. He then traded the beautiful pacific ocean and sun for the beautiful mountains of New Hampshire playing at Saint Anselm College (NCAA2). “New Hampshire was great to me, a totally different feel than Palo Alto, but getting able to experience four seasons, getting there in summer, playing through Fall and Winter, and then enjoying the spring before going home made years feel long. But that isn’t a bad thing because I loved campus, living with my teammates and playing for my coach”, remembered Miles Tention. In his freshman year he averaged 5.5ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 79.4%, but really took off in his last 3 seasons averaging 14/3/3 stats. His shooting was incredible as he averaged 44% from downtown in those 3 years. He helped the school win the Northeast title in 2020 and 2023. “Personally I think 2023 was sweeter for me, going into that season there were a lot of questions and doubts about what to expect from our team having lost some key players in 2022. So I knew that I was ready to step into that role of leading the team and being the oldest guy, we had a group of guys who mostly were inexperienced so to be able to pack our gym for the conference tournament, win something as a group and get to see those young guys all see what it takes, how hard it is, and how fulfilling it is to win a championship really felt special to me. Not that 2020 wasn’t another amazing experience, I just think the doubt from the outside and proving them wrong and proving myself right was extra sweet”, stressed Miles Tention. In his last 3 years, he scored in double figures in 51 of 84 games including 35 points against Bentley and 30 points against S Conn.” So many moments at Saint Anselm that I’ll keep with me for the rest of my life, and it´s hard to choose one. Besides winning 3 championships during my time there, 35 points at home against Bentley my senior year, one of the few games each year my family got to come watch in person, also scored my 1000th point that game, and really carried a majority of the offense that game for our team, was a special one for me”, said Miles Tention. His game grew and matured under the guidance of head coach Keith Dickson for whom he will always be grateful to. “Coach Dickson is a realist, a straight shooter, so he’s going to tell you how he feels, what he wants, when you do good or when you do bad. Under him I learned how much goes into winning a basketball game, how important it is to play together, believe in yourself and believe in one another. He really showed me and everyone what it means to be together, be a family on and off the court, and trust the work. He had been so successful for so long, and I just wanted to come in and continue that, and starting as a freshman and learning as much as I could until I was a senior and then passing that down to the guys below me was an experience that gave me so much gratitude”, added Miles Tention. He even had the pleasure of being teammates with German Elias Rodl who´s dad is German basketball legend Hendrik Rodl and won the NCAA title in 1993 with North Carolina “I only got to play with Elias for one season but still talk to him every week and he’s like a younger brother to me. So many memories around school, in the dorms together, eating together and I love the kid. He faced some challenges coming over from Europe to the States but seeing him keep his head down and keep working extremely hard was motivational for me as I came from California which was a long way away but he was even changing countries. He’s a heck of a shooter and can really score the ball in a variety of ways and a great competitor. He’s fearless, and a true competitor and really wants to learn and get better on the court, so I can’t wait to watch him play at Brandeis”, expressed Miles Tention who remembers getting the best of Matt Becker in 1-1 battles. Some honors that he got there were All-Northeast-2010 Third Team -2020, All-Northeast-2010 Second Team -2022 and Northeast-10 All-Tournament Team -2023
The California native who lists Tim Guers, Tyler Arbuckle, Christopher Paul, Gustav Suhr-Jessen, and Matt Relihan as his best teammates of all-time began his overseas career last season with Frederick Achilleas Kaimakliou (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) averaging 15.5ppg, 3.2rpg, 4.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 75.9%. Coming from California to Cyprus may not have been a shock with the weather, but there were other factors that weighed in heavily with the adjustment period. “Outside of basketball for sure when they gave us a car in Cyprus and we drove on the left side of the road with the steering wheel on the right side of the car was the initial shock to no longer being at home or anywhere close to home. Along with being in the locker room and talking to players or coach one minute and the next minute their speaking Cypriot and I have no idea what they are saying. On the court, I think the wake up call was joining a team where most the guys have never played with one another before. In college I was at the same school for 5 years so the only turnover was seniors graduating and freshman coming in along with an occasional transfer, but a majority of the team stays the same year to year. Where in Europe you have a team with guys of wide range of age, most of which have never played together, so having to learn how everyone plays, guys strengths and weaknesses all while trying to build some chemistry was a wake up call”, remembered Miles Tention. His best scoring games in Cyprus included 25 points against Apop and 23 points against Etha. This season, he is playing his second professional season in Germany with the Tigers Tuebingen and has no complaints about the experience. “This organization feels pretty special or unique, the group of guys that the team has brought together along with everyone from coaching to managers to people behind the scenes are all extremely welcoming, close knit, caring. The team is already connected and closer than most other teams if not all other teams in this league even only being together for about 2 months. The whole organization supports one another and wants the best and I truly couldn’t be more grateful for how caring everyone is from top to bottom. On the court we play together, we want to see one another succeed just as much as we individually want to succeed. We play for one another and I think we are just at the beginning of that too”, said Miles Tention. After a season in the first division, the Tigers have moved back down to the Pro A. The Challenge of helping them move back up was big on his list of coming. “Being in this league, with the professionalism of a team who has proven they can be promoted to the BBL was definitely a reason for coming. Hearing nothing but good things about the club’s structure and organization, as well as getting on the phone with Coach Dominek Reinboth and hearing how he wanted to run the team, what his philosophies were and who he is as a person, it made the decision to want to come here pretty easy. My agent Mario Scotti also had very high praise and was reassuring me the high level the team would be at, along with being able with Kenny Cooper, another player in my agency who I knew was highly talented”, said Miles Tention. Being able to play for a great coach like Reinboth and be teammates with the ultimate leader Marvin Heckel has been enticing and enjoyable. ”Coach is one of if not the most detailed oriented people I’ve ever been around. And that´s on and off the court, his offense really allows us to play to our strengths, we have a lot of talent on the team and it´s not always easy to manage when you have a lot of capable players. That being said he has taken time to learn all of us as people and players and put us in positions to thrive. His offense isn’t fixed and rigid, he gives us some structure and then gives the responsibility to us to make the plays and go out there and perform. Defensively he has made it clear what he wants the identity of the team to be from the first conversation that I had with him, and he has really gotten everyone to buy in. We play hard, we play aggressive, and we play fast, and it´s a great feeling knowing that you can give it everything you have, and when you need a breather the guy who comes in next is going to do the exact same. His philosophies make sense, they are well thought out, and everything that we do has a reason for why we are doing it. And he holds everyone including himself accountable, like I said he is extremely detail oriented and can´t emphasize that enough to us that one step, one foot, one hand can make the entire difference and I’ve tried to take everything he says to heart and live with the results. Marvin! Marvin is just an A+ person. There isn’t a negative thing you could say about him, he leads by example for sure, works extremely hard on the court, in the weight room. He’s a true professional when it comes to his preparation and making sure he is always taking care of his body which I’ve tried to learn and copy as much as I can. He’s a very calming presence on the court, level headed, mindful, and I’ve really enjoyed competing against and with him everyday”, commented Miles Tention.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Miles Tention in Koblenz on Dcember 1st, 2024
The versatile player that lists Lebron James, Steph Curry, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is a player that watched Andre Iguodala most of his life and would compare his game best to Donte DiVincenzo. “Like most players I’ve grown up watching the NBA, going in the back yard and practicing moves or shots that I saw on TV. Andre Iguodala, who my dad coached in college and I’m lucky enough to know and feels like a much older brother. His selflessness, willingness to adapt to his situation, desire to make his team better, effort on defense is someone I would say I’ve learned or tried to take the most from his game. But his athleticism is something special that I can’t say I possess, however I would say I’m a better shooter. Donte DiVincenzo is a good comparison to my game, an athletic guard who can really play defense, handle the ball, and shoot it at a high rate. but I’ve always struggled at who my NBA comparison would be so please if you have any ideas let me know”, said Miles Tention. His shooting is possibly his biggest strength, but what a joy to have versatility just as potent in one´s game. “Versatility is huge for me, and really just trying to do whatever my team needs to win. And for most people that is scoring as much but I know how much goes into winning a game. So being able to score, defend, set my teammates up or make plays for guys, space the court, push the pace and push the ball in transition, control the pace of the game, know the offense, know defensive scenes are all things that go into winning and I try to do at a high level. There are 10 guys on the court at all times and only one ball, so growing up my parents instilled in me that, “what are you doing to help your team win if you aren’t scoring.” Being a taller guard, I love that I can bring the ball up, play off the ball, guard a team’s best player, hold my own in the post, and I think that really increases my value as a player”, warned Miles Tention. His shooting percentages were incredible in the NCAA and he has a special mentality that has helped him be successful. “I’ve never really focused on trying to shoot a certain percentage, I mean being a 40%+ 3 point shooter definitely means that you can shoot the ball well, but for me I want to be a threat at all times, a good bit of my offensive game stems from being a threat to shoot the ball, setting me up for long closeouts, spacing the court, making shots over defenders. So I think my mentality is understanding that I can shoot it at a high clip, and get as many good looks as I can over the course of a game, because percentages point to that making my team successful. And I know how many hours I’ve put in working on the art of shooting, so I always believe my shot is going in no matter where I take it from”, said Miles Tention. He has so many other assets on the court besides shooting out the lights. “I love defending, being a pest, being hard to score against. I think I’ve been around the game my entire life with my dad being a college coach, mom being my travel coach, so I would like to think I have a high basketball IQ. Whether that’s making sure everyone is involved on offense, knowing when to push the ball or slowing things down and controlling the game is definitely a strength. And also I like to think I’m a natural leader. Another thing my parents said was “don’t be a follower be a leader” and that can come in different forms in basketball. Whether that’s making sure I’m always setting the tone and bringing energy to games and practice, always working hard and giving it my all when I’m on the court, talking and making sure everyone is on the same page are all ways I can lead besides trying to be the best player on the court”, expressed Miles Tention. But it won´t only be his offensive game that will shine, but also his defensive game. “I think right now I’m a good defender, my size allows me to guard shorter guards, and I contest a lot of shots both on the perimeter and at the basket. I can guard wings, in the post I try to make it as hard as I can for bigs. I put a lot of preparation in to learn players and their strengths and weaknesses. Learn what kind of shots they like and don’t like and play to that. I want to be a great defender or all league defender. And that comes with experience, learning from Coach and taking what he has to say and applying that, gaining some weight to be more physical and stand up to forwards and really rebound better. But I think I’m on my way to becoming the defender that I want to be”, commented Miles Tention. As a rookie, your always grinding in the gym in order to get better. “I think I can improve all parts of my game, but I think playing lower to the ground is something that stands out for me, both on offensive it will let me be more explosive, have better ball security, and be able to make decisions faster, and then on defensive it’ll allow me to stay in front of the ball even better, get more steals because my hands are in a better position, and overall be harder to score on. Working on finishes around the rim, over people, through contact, changing up my finishes with floaters, stride stops, off one leg, dunks is another area I definitely see myself improving as the year goes on”, warned Miles Tention. The Tigers Tuebingen will play with Jena and Trier and some other teams to move up to the easyCredit BBL. Miles Tention will play a big role with the Tigers to get back. I don´t know if he will meet another Miles in Tuebingen, but on December 1st, he met another Miles with me in Koblenz and it was a real pleasure.
Shawn Scott (185-G-1996, college: SW Christian) is a 28 year old 185cm guard that is playing fourth season and first with Pro B team TSV Neustadt temps Shooters. Last season he played with BG Hagen averaging 30.1ppg, 9.0rpg, Assists-2 (5.9apg), Steals-5 (2.7spg), FGP: 59.9%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 78.0%. In 2022-2023 he split time with TVO Biggesee / TV Jahn Lindhorst (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 31.2ppg, 10.4rpg, 6.1apg, 3.6spg, 2FGP: 56.2%, 3FGP: 30.4%, FT: 77.6%, in Jan.’23 moved to BG 2000 Berlin (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 14.2ppg, 8.1rpg, 4.6apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 64.4%. He began his career at Jenks High School and then played 3 seasons at Southwestern Christian University. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball
Thanks Shawn for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the big 85-82 win over Lok Bernau. How good did it feel to finally get your first Pro B win? Thanks for having me. It felt like we had won a championship honestly. The feeling of relief to finally get that first win is a great feeling and now we need to take this momentum and keep going.
Lok Bernau began fast leading 9-0. With the season that Neustadt has had does one think in moments like this oh not again here we go again in terms with the slow start?
Statistically, almost every game has been a slow start for us so we don’t think anything of it and just continue to keep fighting back into the game.
Neustadt went on a massive run at the end of the first quarter as the three ball was working. How prevalent has being unpredictable been a theme for this team this season? Every game we step it up a notch and with that, players show more and more what they can do and I think that’s what makes us so unpredictable because anyone can step up and have a great game and I think everyone contributed greatly to our first win.
Neustadt had the slim 46-45 advantage at the break. What was so difficult in containing the Lok Bernau drive? That was a big issue in the first half? Bernau had young but smart guards who were good at finding angles and getting to the basket. With their good big man, it was tough to contain them and keep them out of the paint.
You traded buckets with Uzziah Dawkins at the beginning of the third quarter. What was it like battling him? How do you view in general the competitive level and skill of Pro B guards in comparison to Regionalliga import guards?
It was a good competitive battle between us and I think he was great finisher around the rim for his size. I think in Pro B, most of the imports have close to no flaws in their game and can do everything on the floor at a high level. They don’t take plays off and play with extreme confidence.
Neustadt had the slim lead after 3 quarters. How content were you with the team fighting mentality at that point? You could tell we had a different energy and motivation to us since the start of the game and as it went on, it got even higher because we felt that we really deserved to win this game. I was just proud that we kept fighting to the end.
What was key in crunch-time for the win? Neustadt punched back hard and Lok Bernau couldn´t react anymore. Stops, rebounds, and staying calm. Everyone stepped up huge when it was time to get a rebound and we were determined to not let this game get away from us like other games.
What was the biggest strength of the team besides their fighting qualities? How big was the rebounding work? It was for sure rebounding id say. Our bigs stepped up this game and fought hard for key rebounds on offense and defense.
The team has won it´s first game. What does the team have to do now to get a winning streak? Just keep this momentum and stay locked in for the next games ahead because we have a big chance to turn our season around.
What was it like playing against Alba Berlin´s farm team? Was there a German player that really stood out for you? I actually didn’t know Bernau was Alba’s farm team until some days before but you could see they have some very talented young players over there with bright futures. #22 was very good in my opinion and I was impressed with his finishing around the rim.
How big was the pick up of German/American Anthony Watkins? He still needs to adjust, but what have you liked most about his game? I think Anthony is going to help us big. He has a ton of experience and can play on both sides and can do everything on the court very well. He didn’t have the best game but you could already see his impact for us and once he catches rhythm it’s going to be real tough to beat us.
How vital is Duje Dujmovic for the success of the team? What have you enjoyed most about his game?
Duje is a good all around player with a very smooth shot. There’s no shot he doesn’t like and sometimes I think that’s good when it’s crunch time and you need him to knock down a big three like he did last game. He’s not 100% healthy and still helping us big time.
You had a great game of 20/5/6/3 game. How do you view your own performance differently now a level up from last year? I think I was able to impact the game in every way but as long as we win, I’m happy.
Currently your averaging 18/6/4/2 stats. How would you rate your play at the pro B level. Is this what you expected of yourself? I think I have much more to give and I’m determined to step it up even more. I honestly feel that my stats don’t matter at this point because we haven’t been successful as a team but I’m sure that this will change real soon.
Your getting 2,2spg. How is playing defense different in the Pro B than Regionalliga? I think teams are just much smarter and you can’t just get easy steals like you could in Regionalliga. One on one defense is so important in Pro B and I’ve learned that I can’t take plays off on defense because you can get exposed quickly if you do.
Your mostly a driver and mid range game but can shoot the three. Is 13 three´s about right for your game at this stage or do you feel like you could have taken more three´s by now?
I think I could have taken more threes but I’m just taking what the defense gives me and if I can get to my spot and get a quality shot off then I’m okay with that.
How do you see your role now with a new coach and player Anthony Watkins? What can we expect from your game in the next weeks?
Nothing will change honestly. Maybe I will play a bit more off the ball but that’s no problem for me. Just have to make sure I stay sharp and continue to lead by example on defense especially so that we can keep the wins coming.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? I think reading defenses on pick and rolls and help side so I know exactly what I need to do without making a mistake or turnover. And Of course my three point shot and being more confident in that.
Jaquan Lawrence (206-F/C-1999, college: LeMoyne-Owen) is a 26 year old 206cm forward that was born in Chicago and is playing his third professional season and first with VEF Riga (Latvia-LBL). Last season he played with Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions (Austria-BSL) averaging 7.8ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.1apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-3 (1.4bpg), FGP: 53.1%, FT: 64.5%. He palyed his rookie season with Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 8.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.2spg, Blocks-2 (1.7bpg), FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 54.0%. He played at Le Moyne-Owen College (NCAA2) from 2017-2022 playing a total of 101 NCAA 2 games and as a senior averaged 12.6ppg, 8.7rpg, 1.2apg, 2.6bpg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 66.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball champions League game against the Telekom Baskets Bonn.
Thanks Jaquan for talking to germanhoops.com Your playing your first season with VEF Riga (Latvia-LBL). What kind of an experience has this been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the country and organization?
This year so far has been amazing, VEF is an amazing organization with an amazing coaching staff that is very passionate about winning and growing players for the next level in our careers. I feel as if I fit right in because we all share the same desires to win. Latvia is a country that loves basketball and I saw that in the very beginning when I arrived and played in the country’s birthday celebration game with 24 hours of non-stop basketball games. That was amazing and this place is feeling more and more like home for me.
The organization is used to winning as it has won the double in the last 3 years. How much do you feel that ambition to win within the organization? How special is that? We definitely share the same ambitions to win every game and bring home another title this year. Bonding is a major part of our performance on the court, so for me to meet another group of guys that are ready to battle every night for a victory, it just makes our time together off the court better when we get to reflect and motivate each other individually to become great collectively.
Your desire to win must of grown and be really big after reaching a cup final last season. After reaching a SIAC final years ago your chances of winning a title this season is huge.
Yes, coming from Chicago where we naturally have a competitive spirit with everything we do, I just carry over that winning mentality everywhere with me.
The club has a good mix of young and old. What exactly has been your role on the team? My role this year is more on a leadership side being that I am not one of the oldest, I still have younger guys that look up to me on and off the court so always carrying myself as a Pro is pivotal but also still being a student of the game soaking up as much as I can.
What has it been like being teammates with legend Dairis Bertans. The guy has seen it all from NBA to Euroleague. What do you believe has been the most important thing that you have been able to soak up from him despite not playing the same position? Dairis Bertans is not only a great basketball player but he is an amazing guy altogether and I learn so much from him during the games and practice. The most important thing I have been able to soak up is that every point counts at the end. That means either defending and getting stops or getting more possessions crashing the offensive boards.
What is your biggest goal with your game this season? In comparison to Finland and Austria, the Basketball Champions League is the best league you have played in. Would making an impact on the defensive end be a goal for you? My biggest goal is doing everything I can to work towards winning another championship. Making an impact on defense is definitely my main goal just to become better individually because if I am at my best,I can help the team be our best being the defensive leader.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 206cm power forward/center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
If I compare my game to an NBA player it would be Anthony Davis. We both had growth spurts, attended the same high school, and have similar game.
You’re a great rebounder and shot blocker. What other strengths does your game incorporate?
I am also a rim runner that is a lob threat. I can shoot the midrange shot as well and defend all 5 positions. In my eyes one of the best PnR defenders.
Since 2017 you have always averaged at least 1,0 block per game. How would you classify your shot blocking game? What do you still have to do to become an elite shot blocker? I have always been a rim protector, and I would classify my shot blocking game as Elite. I still have to become better with reading the guard to understand if it’s a shot to contest or just stay down and guard 1 on 2 for a split second.
What other strengths do you have on the defensive end that helps you be able to make an impact at the defensive end?
My speed and long arms allow me to hard hedge on PnR defense and get back to my man. I alter shots well. I also get a lot of deflections and steals for my position.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? My free throw percentage is where I am looking to improve the most in my game now.
You played last season with Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions (Austria-BSL) averaging 7.8ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.1apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-3 (1.4bpg), FGP: 53.1%, FT: 64.5%. You played a tough playoff series losing to Oberwart 70-69 in the final game. What will you always remember from that game?
I will always remember the fighting spirit I had in that game to close out the series. I injured my foot in the first half but I taped up and finish the game. Coming down to the last shot, I got an offensive rebound with 3 seconds left falling down and shooting the last shot from the floor and missing right before the buzzer sounded.
What was it like battling veteran Fabricio Vay who played 14 seasons with Arkadia and even in the G-League 15 years ago. Was he like a mentor for you? Fabricio Vay was definitely a great mentor for me; he was a major competitor. There were some tough battling within the practices but afterwards he would always invite us to do fun things off the court just to enjoy life as good brothers
You played your rookie season with Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 8.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.2spg, Blocks-2 (1.7bpg), FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 54.0%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? My wake up call was landing at Sweden airport and realizing the currency was different and the charger ports were also.
You played 4 years at Le Moyne-Owen College (NCAA2) improving your scoring and rebounds average each season. How did your game grow there? What kind of a player were you coming in and what kind when you left?
My game grew because every summer I put in those endless hours in the gym trying to improve my all around game. Also the environment of my HBCU was like family, so the support and love always made me want to be better. South Memphis just kept me humbled because everywhere we played we were the underdogs. Coming into LeMoyne-Owen I was an athletic finisher and rim protector with a very thin frame with lots of potential. I left as one of the best in the conference with DPOY, Second team all conference honors, and 2022 Inaugural HBCU ASG (All Star Game) selection.
In your senior year you had a 17/14/10 blocks in a win over Tuskegee. How special was that game? It isn´t often that you see a triple double with blocks.
That was an unbelievable game for me and still one of my most memorable ones. I love blocking shots but I never thought that I would ever get 10 in a single game. The most important thing is that we won.
You played 2 seasons for Bonzie Wells. What was it like learning the game from him? He was a very good rebounder for his height when he was playing. Bonzi is also a student of the game and his desire for it is even more imposing. Learning the game from him was incredible. I never imagined having someone who so many people looked up to, as not only a head coach but one of the coolest mentors.
How do you feel Bonzie Wells groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Bonzi Wells’ favorite saying was “ I only trust the work ” so as long as you were working on your game and respecting the game, in due time you will see the results. When you are practicing and working out at game speed everything must carry over to the competitions. I took that and ran with it because if you are playing this game you must respect it, there are no shortcuts!
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dajion Henderson?
There were consistent battles between us but we never played a 1 v 1
Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA? Talen Horton Tucker Jalen Duran Thad Young Ayo Dosunmu
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Ike Smith, LJ Thorpe, Tylan Birts, Davon Clare, Demarcus Demonia
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore? Anthony Davis, Kevin Durant, Lebron James, D- Rose
Who is your GOAT? Yeshua
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I have not seen the movie yet but I will watch to see LOL.!
Zachary Seljaas (202-SF-1997, college: BYU) is a 27 year old 202cm forward from Utah playing his 5th professional season and second with FIT/One Wuerzburg Baskets (Germany-BBL). In the 2022-2023 season he balled for the Tigers Tuebingen (Germany-ProA) averaging (16.9ppg), 6.0rpg, 2.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 84.8%. He played his first 2 pro seasons with BC Prievidza (Slovakia-SBL) averaging 13.4ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 9.5%, FT: 75.0%, and with BC Vera (Georgia-Superleague averaging22.1ppg), Reb-2 (12.0rpg), 2.6apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 83.5%. He began his basketball career at Bountiful and then played at Brgham Young (NCAA) from 2015-2019. He spoke to germanhoops.com after a massive 89-70 win over Frankfurt.
Congrats on the big 89-70 win over Frankfurt. How huge was this win after the last loses?
It was a really good and big win for us. It was important to get our rhythm back and to have finished the game strong. I think like we got the feel back to heading back in a positive direction as a team.
Frankfurt entered the game with a huge cup win and Wurzburg a tough 2 point BCL loss. I guess sometimes all one needs is one huge quarter to secure a win? Yes it sure can. We saw it last week in the BCL and last night against Frankfurt. Frankfurt began the fourth quarter with a run. We knew that we had to regroup. We didn´t want the game to end like the last few games. We did a good job regrouping and figuring it out.
A lot of punching back and forth in the first 5 minutes between both teams. How crucial were your 2 consecutive three´s? Did that give the team some early momentum? Yes I definitely think so. I think that it wasn´t just me, but how the team was able to create our offense as a team. We did what we always do in practice. That helped build our rhythm.
In the second quarter the game remained tight. Big man Hannes Steinbach had back to back assists. Is he the perfect definition of a modern big man? Yes he has. He has so much potential. He surprises me every day again. He is so natural with his game. It is really crazy what he can already do with his game at his age. He is only going to get better. It is fun to see his development on a daily basis. Sky is the limit for him.
Last week Wurzburg pro B player Calvin Wishart said that it wouldn´t surprise him if he laned in the NBA. What about for you?
For sure. I can see him flourish in an American system. The way he plays and his style would fit well in the states. I could also see him playing college basketball there.
Jordan Theodore hit a big three is his third come back with the team. He led Frankfurt to the Fiba Cup title when you were a freshman at Brigham Young. Does he still have what it takes to lead this team to success?
Yes for sure. He is a great player. He has a lot of experience. That doesn´t only help him on a personal level, but also the team. He was a huge pick up for them.
Wurzburg broke free in the third quarter and led by as much as 13 points in the third quarter and led 60-51. What was key in the third quarter for having a bigger lead?
Our defense opens up so much for us. Our energy starts with our defense. That is how coach runs it. We get stops and then run on transition. I think in that phase we also limited our turnovers. We had had too many earlier in the game. We tried to make big plays, but in the third slowed it down which helped us limit them.
David Muenkat began the fourth quarter with his own 8-0 run as Frankfurt trailed only 60-59. What did head coach Savo Filipovski tell the team in the time out?
He told us for most just to lock down on defense. We needed better rotations and had given up too many open shots. They have good players and they made tough shots. We have to be locked in 40 minutes on defense.
David Muenkat had a big night with 23 points. What made it so difficult to control him? He is a good player. I feel like we underestimated his shot making qualities. He made tough shots which we didn´t expect from him. We relied too much on his drive. We have to know the tendencies better of everyone. We gave Parsons and Theodore too much focus.
Wurzburg than exploded going on a 21-2 run. Mike Lewis added 9 points and Jhivvan Jackson 3 three pointers in a row. Was this just one of those classic massive runs or was there more behind it?
That is just how our team is. We can get hot quickly. It helps when your at home playing in front of our great fans. After a few shots go in, our confidence continues to grow. When your making shots, defense becomes more exciting which makes it easier. An offensive explosion can happen at anytime.
Did that run totally break Frankfurt´s confidence?
I think so. That helped us get a good distance between them and us. WE showed that we didn´t want to stop, but play well until the end. We kept our rhythm until the end.
How proud were you that the team finished the game in good form after the run? There was no let up which sometimes can happen after a run like that? I was very proud. There can always be a letdown. I feel like in being able to close out the game strong, we were able to make a big step. I feel like that gave us a lot of confidence that will help us the next time.
A game has more than just 1 quarter. The team shot 16 three´s and easily won the rebound fight. What was the biggest strength of the team in the game?
I think it was our team work especially on the defensive end. We helped each other. I think we shared the ball great. We had our season high in assists. We also did a good job getting guys into rhythm.
Wurzburg now has some big games coming up in few days. Alba Berlin isn´t what it once was. What will be key to getting win? It really is about us and how we approach each game and how much confidence we have.
What will be the biggest key for the team to be a playoff team again and not have last season be a fluke?
I think our success has to do with our culture and how hard we work as a team. I don´t think last season was a fluke. We are on a good way of being a good team again.
Your in your second season in the easyCredit BBL. Your scoring average is down a bit. Is that because of more offensive weapons this season?
Yes I think so. My role is a bit different this season. I´m captain and a leader and have more of a focus on defense. I have a lot more to do this season than just score. Not scoring as much doesn´t bother me. The most important thing is that we win and fight.
What is your big goal this season as a player after your break through season last year in terms of your game?
My goal from day 1 was always to get better. I want to be able to see how far I can go as a player. I want to have the opportunity to see what can happen with my game. At the same time I want to enjoy my time here as a young man with a family. Not everyone gets an opportunity like this.
Your having a huge BCL season averaging 21,0ppg. Is your role a bit different than in the BBL? I think it had to do how game went. I go out and approach each game the same way. I think many underestimate how physical the easyCredit BBL is and how good teams are. It is really hard to score in the BBL with the physicality and scouting. The BCL has been a fun experience and I´m fortunate to have played well.
What do you enjoy most about Christmas and the German Christmas market´s?
When it comes to Christmas, I´m like a child. I love the feeling of Christmas. I feel like I enjoy buying presents for kids more than they do opening them. I love the markets and hanging out with the family there. I enjoy the culture and the community. Christmas is one of the nicest times of the year.
Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Maxi Ugrai? Me. Max is great, but I think I got him.
Harrison Cleary (185-PG-1997, college: UMC) is a 26 year old 185cm point guard from Oak Creek, Wisconsin playing his 5th professional season and first with VEF Riga (Latvia-LBL). Last season he played with Lahti Basketball (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging (22.9ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-2 (6.5apg), 1.0spg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 92.5%. He played the 2022-2023 season with the Veolia Towers Hamburg (Germany-BBL) averaging 6.3ppg, 1.5apg an din the Eurocup averaged 6.3ppg, 1.1rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 26.3%, and he also played with SC Rist Wedel (Germany-ProB) averaging 23.9ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.9apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT-1 (45.3%), FT: 78.4%. In the 2021-2022 season he played with Aquimisa Carbajosa (Spain-LEB Silver) averaging 15.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 45.7%. He split his rookie season with TAU Castello (Spain-LEB Gold) and Afanion CB Almansa (Spain-LEB Gold). He began his basketball career at Oak Creek high school and then played 4 years. He then played 4 seasons at the University Of Minnersota Crookston (NCAA2) and as a senior averaged 26.6ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 39.2%, FT: 90.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against the Telekom Baskets Bonn.
Thanks Harrison for talking to germanhops.com. Your playing your first season with VEF Riga (Latvia-LBL). What kind of an experience has this been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the country and organization? It’s been a great experience so far. VEF is a very storied and successful club so it is great to be part of an organization like that. Riga is a beautiful city and I have enjoyed exploring and finding some cool spots within the city.
The organization is used to winning as it has won the double in the last 3 years. How much do you feel that ambition to win within the organization? How special is that? It is the number one goal for us to win as many trophies as possible. They have won the LBL title for the last 3 years in a row so of course it is something we want to do again this season. In addition, we want to win the cup and take home the Est-Lat league title as well. I haven’t been part of an organization with title aspirations like this one in my career so far, so it is an exciting challenge and something I am taking very seriously because I want to uphold those standards and also cement myself as a winner.
After taking a step back last season to play in Finland, you took a step forward this season. Was this one of the best pro decisions you have made in your career?
It has been a good decision so far. Of course the opportunity to play Champions League is something that is very hard to pass up. I’m enjoying things in the moment, and I think I will know a few years from now when I am later in my career how beneficial this move and season was for me.
You are in great position to win that first pro title. How hungry are you for that first pro dub? That is my primary goal for this year. I’ve accomplished a lot of things individually in my career, so I am really focused on winning as many games as possible and trying to bring home that first championship.
The club has a good mix of young and old. What exactly has been your role on the team? As a point guard your role is always to be a type of leader. Of course we have veterans and experienced guys that have been at the top, so they lead us for sure. I try to lead by example as best I can and always be the hardest worker. On the court, I try to do whatever is necessary to win us games. If I need to score more that day, or play make more, or just feed the hot hand then that is what I try to do.
What has it been like being teammates with legend Dairis Bertans. The guy has seen it all from NBA to Euroleague. What do you believe has been the most important thing that you have been able to soak up from him? It’s been great playing with Dairis. Unfortunately he has been injured lately, but we all saw what he was capable of against Bonn. Playing with a shooter like that is a huge privilege and I just try to watch him work and pick his brain whenever I can because learning from a player that has played at the levels he has is priceless.
Your having a very good BCL season. How vital was it having had that Eurocup experience a few years ago to help your game as you have moved forward in the last years?
I value my experience in the Eurocup very much. This season is a much different role than I had with Hamburg that season, but my time that I got in the Eurocup was definitely meaningful and allowed me to see the speed and physicality and type of players I would be up against this season.
What is your biggest goal with your game this season? You have been a sniper your whole career, but have also made steps in other parts of your games in the last years?
My biggest goal individually is to show that I can lead a team to a championship. I feel like I’ve showcased my shooting and scoring ability in the past at all different levels, so I really wanted to display my ability to run a team and do whatever is necessary to win the game that particular night.
Your playmaking is one of those. You averaged the most assists per game in Finland. How have you grown as a playmaker in the last 2 years?
I think that is the area I’ve probably grown the most the last 2 years. I was put in situations in Germany and Finland where I had the ball in my hand so much that I was learning little things every game. I came off so many ball screens and saw so many different coverages that I was able to really learn from my own film after every game and get to a point where I felt really comfortable against all types of defenses.
You continue to be an incredible shooter. Are you an elite shooter now or almost there? I can say it is one of my greatest strengths and something I still put a lot of work into daily. I feel like I’ve played with some elite shooters like Dairis, Ryan Taylor, Bobby Planutis, but I don’t know if somebody can label themselves an elite shooter haha
Last season you played with Lahti Basketball (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 22.9ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-2 (6.5apg), 1.0spg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 92.5%. You had great stats, but the team lost a lot. What did you learn about yourself as a player? I feel like I was just constantly learning and growing that season. I think that was probably the first time in my career where I really understood that every possession can make or break a game. We lost our fair share of games by only a few points and it made me learn I have to really limit mistakes and find those plays in a game that can really change the momentum
Two seasons ago you played with the Veolia Towers Hamburg (Germany-BBL) playing 4 games averaging 6.3ppg, 1.5apg; and played 8 Eurocup games averaging 6.3ppg, 1.1rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 26.3%, played also at SC Rist Wedel (Germany-ProB) averaging 23.9ppg), 2.8rpg, 4.9apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT-1 (45.3%), FT: 78.4%. How vital was this season for your basketball development? Practicing with the BBL team each day and playing games and playing Pro B?
That was the year I kind of got my career back on track after two tough seasons. I really appreciate Coach Blode in ProB giving me such a big role on that team and allowed me to show who I was as a player, but also allowed me to make mistakes and learn on the fly which I think played a big role in my development. Practicing with the Towers everyday was also a big help because of the coaching staff there and the talented players on the roster. Playing against really athletic and talented players each day made it easier to head back to ProB and play against competition that maybe wasn’t at the level of BBL yet.
How vital was a guy like Seth Hinrichs for your game? He is as versatile as you can get and is a great teammate. What could you learn from him best?
Seth is a really great teammate and although we don’t play the same position, he has such a high basketball IQ that it was great to hear any advice he had.
You had many explosive games in the pro B, but also 13 points in 14 minutes against Paris in a Eurocup win. Was that one of your most special games?
That was a big game for me. That was the game where I think I gained a lot of trust from the Hamburg organization and also showed what I was capable of on a larger stage.
You played your second pro season with Aquimisa Carbajosa (Spain-LEB Silver) averaging 15.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 45.7%. After a tough rookie season, you had good stats, but an injury kept you on the sidelines long. What positives could you get from this season? That was a really tough situation and injury to deal with at that point in my career. I think the biggest positive from that season was the people I met and also it showed me how badly I wanted to be successful with this career. I hardly had any games on my resume after this injury, and it would have been easy to just “retire” at that point, but I was going to do whatever it took to get healthy and back on track.
You split your rookie season with TAU Castello (Spain-LEB Gold) playing 5 games averaging 2.6ppg, in Jan.’21 moved to Afanion CB Almansa (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 0.5ppg. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? To be honest my wake up call started before I even left the states. I was in Miami getting on my flight to Valencia and they started speaking Spanish on the intercom at the gate and that’s when it started to hit me that I was about to be in a foreign country for the first time.
This was a tough season. What did you learn about yourself that season? I think I learned I had to change my style of play a little bit from how I was in college if I wanted to be successful.
You played at the University of Minnesota Crookston (NCAA2) from 2016-2020 and left as having scored the most points. You averaged 23,0ppg in 4 years. Were these 4 years some of the best times in your life? They were definitely a good 4 years. That was some of the most fun I had playing basketball.
You scored in double figures in 109 of 114 games. Your consistency as a scorer was amazing. What kind of a player were you in 2016 and what kind of a player were you when you departed in 2020? I think my scoring ability was the biggest change in those 4 years. I was a good scorer in 2016, but I wasn’t as good in the ball screen or isolation at that time. By the time I left in 2020, those were my biggest strengths as a player. Every summer I went back home and worked on my game with my trainers and came back to school better the next year, and I feel like we still do the same thing to this day.
You had a 52 point game and numerous 40 plus point games and numerous 30 plus point games. What was your fondest moment on the court? I’d say winning the first conference tournament game in school history. Nobody expected us to win that night and we went into the opposing teams’ home gym and upset them and that was a great feeling.
How did head coach Bryan Beamish groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Coach Beam is one of the best coaches I’ve ever had. We put a crazy amount of hours in the gym together and dissected a lot of film together as well. He played a huge role in my development and growth as a player.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Ben Juhl? I’m not sure if we ever played
Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA? Probably Jayson Tatum
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Junior Searcy, Chase Johnson, Kendale McCullum, Thorben Meissner, James Padgett
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore? Kobe, Lebron, MJ, Steph
Who is your GOAT?
Kobe. There’s players in today’s game with more talent than we’ve ever seen, but nobody will ever have the mentality and killer instinct like Kobe
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I did not see that movie Thanks for the interview!
German Hoops 