Markise Davis (203-G/F-2000, college: Arkansas St., agency: One Motive Sports) is a 24 year old 203cm forward from Alabama playing his second pro season and first with at BC Mess (Luxembourg-Nationale 2). Last season as a rookie he played with KTP Basket Kotka (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 7.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.0apg, in Dec.’23 moved to OKK Slavija 1996 Sarajevo (Bosnia-Division) averaging 7.6ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 35.1%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 84.6%. He began his basketball career at Oxford high school and then played 2 seasons at Wallace State Community college averaging 4.7ppg, 2.0rpg and 10.0ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 43.0%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 73.7%. He then finished at Arkansas State University (NCAA) averaging 5.2ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 45.9%, FT: 60.0%, 6.2ppg, 2.7rpg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 69.7% and 9.9ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 89.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after scoring 40 points against Nitia and was the second highest scorer in the world for last week.
Congrats Markise on the big 93-73 win over Nitia. How big does this win rank in greatest games of all-time for you? You hit for 40 points?
Thank you, as far as this win rank I’d say it’s top 10 so far but my best game all-time is my 11th grade year winning the county championship against Sacred Heart with my childhood friends in high school.
What does 40 points mean to you as a player? Especially since you haven´t been a big time scorer until this season.
As a player, scoring 40 points is a big milestone. It shows that you’ve been able to step up and contribute significantly to your team’s offense. Especially if you haven’t been a high scorer in previous seasons, it likely reflects growth in your game — whether it’s better shot selection, increased confidence, or improved chemistry with teammates. It also highlights that you’re able to take on a bigger role and perform under pressure, which can be a huge boost for both personal confidence and the team’s success. Scoring 40 points is about proving to yourself and others that you can handle the load when the opportunity comes, and it can serve as a foundation for future performances.
Was this the most points that you achieved in a game since Wallace State? Did you ever score 40 or more at Oxford high school where you averaged 16,0ppg?
At Wallace State, my highest points scored was definitely in the 20 point plus margin. Unfortunately in high school I did not score 40 or more but my highest was 27 in a 4 OT game against south side.
Talk a little about the game. How quickly did you know that you might have a good scoring game? I could tell pretty early on that I might have a good scoring game. Usually, it starts with finding a rhythm early — hitting a couple of shots, getting to my spots, and feeling like the ball is coming off my hands right. In this game, I just felt more locked in from the start. My teammates were setting me up well, and the defense was giving me opportunities to take what I wanted. Once I got into a flow, it was easier to stay aggressive and take advantage of the chances that came my way. When things are going well, it’s almost like you can sense it, and you just try to keep attacking until the defense adjusts or they find a way to slow you down. But early on, I felt like I had a good shot at a big night.
Did you just go with the flow of the game and was it picking your spots easier in this game than usual? Once I got my rhythm going it’s hard for the opponents to turn my water off.
You were 17/23 and really shot the ball well. Were you more patient than usual as well?
I wouldn’t say I was more patient, just let the game come to me instead of forcing anything bad to mess up my chances for a good game like I had.
Can you imagine how many points you may have had had you reached the free throw line more? With more attempts you may have reached 50 points. 50-60 point game is coming soon.
How much more self-confidence do you have now after a game like this? It gained me more confidence but I still have things to work on as well, but me scoring 40 definitely opened my eyes on what I can achieve.
Will you take your teammates out to dinner or will they do something for you? We just all got hyped in the locker room and went home afterwards.
How often have I said that basketball is a small world? It has been so many times. Every once in a while event´s happen where I can only utter these words. I have been around the basketball block for more than 20 years overseas and it is always interesting to see when a son of a former player is overseas and playing the game I love. I may or may never have interviewed Aamondae Coleman (200-F/C-1998, college: Fresno Pacific, agency: Bell Basketball) had I not read the spectacular Eurobasket headline recently where his 42 points against German Regionalliga team Herford had been the second most points scored in the world that week. For me that was news. Another player who is toiling around in the fourth league in Germany and paying his dues and grinding day by day with the hopes of climbing the basketball ladder in the next years. I checked his social media pages and came across the name of Marcus Fizer. I remember the name, a guy that played in the NBA with the Chicago Bulls and overseas with teams like Maccabi Tel Aviv. It wasn´t until I read his finished version of the interview where I learned that he was Fizer´s son. Then positive alarm bells were set off in my head and I thought wow, basketball is a small world. I had actually interviewed Marcus Fizer 16 years ago. Back then Turkish coach Murat Didin had been in charge of the then Deutsche Bank Skyliners and he was at it again using his great contacts. He was friends with Pini Gershon and he brought Euroleague powerhouse Maccabi Tel Aviv to Frankfurt for a rare exhibition game during the 2008-2009 season. I was so excited, because that team´s roster was filled with some of the best players at that time. I was able to interview 3 players with Carlos Arroyo, Marcus Brown and Marcus Fizer. I really don´t remember much about the interview except that I conducted it in the hotel lobby and I asked him some questions about the Bulls. Having been able to interview his son 16 years later is a cool experience. “Words can’t describe how crazy that is sir, who would’ve ever thought that we’d both get interviewed by you 16 years apart? It’s crazy how God works, it truly is a small world”, stressed Aamondae Coleman. “This is such an honor and disbelief to be having my son interviewed by the same gentleman who once interviewed me as a pro. It’s surreal and also makes me old haha. Nevertheless an honor. I appreciate the growth and proud of the man Aamondae has become and know more is to come regarding his professional future. I’ve always wanted my sons to carve their own path to success and he’s shown me that’s what God is granting. It’s such a humbling feeling to see and I’m grateful to the heavens. One day we pray the Euro League and/or the NBA is on the horizon. Guys like PJ Tucker has proven it can happen, Pat Beverly to name a few. As the season progresses we hope for good health, wins and advancement”, stressed ex NBA player Marcus Fizer. Being able to have had a father like that who saw it all in the NBA and overseas was incredibly important for his basketball development. “He honestly taught me what it meant to be a professional on and off the court, and he helped showed me the work ethic that it would take at a young age. He did a great job of finding the balance of pushing me to my limits, but not pushing me too hard to where I potentially lost love for the sport. But he was extremely important on my development forsure. Growing up he was my role model and still is to this day on and off the court. His career was LEGENDARY, professional and collegiate; just praying that my career can be half of his good as his when I’m all said and done! He was truly a legend though! The older I get the more I realize it honestly, I’m just truly blessed to have him as a role model and most importantly a father”, stated Aamondae Coleman.
The 200cm forward who lists Marcus Fizer, Zach Collins, Troy Brown, and Pierre Jackson as the toughest players he has battled against on the court was born on March 7th, 1998 in Las Vegas, Nevada. He began his basketball career with Desert Oasis high school and then played at Fresno Pacific University (NCAA2) from 2017-2021 playing a total of 97 games. He was able to develop his game well there averaging 9.2ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 60.0% and 14.7ppg, 6.6rpg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 60.2% in his first 2 seasons and then really broke open his game averaging 17.9ppg, 5.8rpg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 71.5% and 20.4ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 69.2%. It was a challenge especially during Covid when his game took off. “My game grew SIGNIFICANTLY at Fresno Pacific (FPU). The skill development was truly amazing and it helped mold me into the player I am today! Coaches Haydock, McClurg, Shearon, Ronlake, and Razo really played a vital role in helping me improve daily. Basketball during Covid was different to say the least; it was a blessing to be able to play looking back at it because a lot of schools across the country didn’t unfortunately. But it showed you who really loved the game. A lot of outdoor hoop sessions because gyms were closed due to restrictions, it was a hectic time but I’m blessed to have been a part of it”, remembered Aamondae Coleman. He had many massive games at Fresno Pacific like when he scored 40 points against the Academy Of Art, but he also had other great memories of his time there. “The 40 point game is up there but my #1 memory would have to be when we heard our schools name called for the NCAA tournament my senior year. To make the NCAA tourney was a blessing and it just made all the hard work we put in truly worth it! And also, that selection Sunday happened to be on my birthday. Probably one of the best birthday presents I’ve ever gotten”, smiled Aamondae Coleman. He scored in double figures in 64 games and had 20 points or more 26 times. He knows that a big part of his progression there had to do with the guidance of head coach CJ Haydock. “He just always taught me to be prepared and to be the hardest worker. He always stressed things like being respectful, serving others/your teammates, and being early for everything, especially practice. He used to have a rule that all players had to be on the court ready to practice 30 minutes before practice started, or there’d be repercussions. And I thank him for that because those habits were installed into me, and I still follow them to this day”, added Aamondae Coleman who lists ex teammate Toby Christensen as one of the most gifted guys he ever played with, but would take himself in a 1-1 battle.
The prolific scorer who names Adrian Antunez, Elijah Hill, Kaelin Crane, Paul Lunguana, and Matthew Weir as his 5 best teammates of all-time played his rookie season overseas with APOP Paphou (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League): averaging 15.0ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 57.9%, 3FGP: 15.8%, FT: 59.0%, in Dec.’22 moved to Kutaisi 2010 (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 10.3ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 61.0%, FT: 41.7%. Every American has that wake up call when coming overseas and for him all was ok in Cyprus, but Georgia was something totally diffferent. “Cyprus was such a beautiful country and the weather was very similar to weather in California, so it wasn’t much of an adjustment. But Georgia was completely different; it was so cold and rained so often lol. Playing in Georgia was a blessing though, I learned a lot from my older American teammates. But yeah, touching down in Georgia was definitely the wake up call”, remembered Aamondae Coleman. He scored in double figures in Cyprus in 6 of 8 games including 22 points against Apoel and was invited to participate in the allstar game. “That experience So amazing/surreal, it was truly a blessing! Seeing all those fans there was honestly crazy. Also, the amount of autographs I signed that night was mind-blowing! Those are the moments you live for”, expressed Aamondae Coleman. In Georgia he was fortunate to play with 2 veterans Chris Ware and Jarvis Ray who had seen so much overseas that he was able to easily to adapt to all on and off the court. “They were HUGE mentors for me; I was also teammates with Chad Frazier too temporarily, but yeah they all taught me so much. I looked up to them because of how much older they were and they’re experience they had overseas. That was my worst output in my career statistically, but I honestly feel like I learned the most in Georgia. Chris, Jarvis, and Chad taught me how to be a pro and the work it takes day in and day out. I was sponge trying to absorb as much knowledge as I could from them daily! But those are all my big bros and we still keep in contact to this day! They’ll always be family and I’ll always appreciate them for taking me under their wing”, commented Aamondae Coleman. In Georgia he scored in double figures in 4 of 6 games including 16 points against TSU. Last season he played with Akranes IA (Iceland-Division I) averaging 22.8ppg, 9.0rpg, 2.6apg, 1.1spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 65.5%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 63.1%. It was a season to remember as he exploded on the court and had moments of the court that he will forever be able to share with everyone forever. “On the court just playing with my teammates the whole season; made some great friends/brothers out there that will always be considered family to me. One moment that did stick out to me was our home playoff game last year when I hit a clutch 3 in the final minutes of the game to tie it. We ended up losing, but I’ll never forget the roar from the crowd when the shot went in. As a hooper, you live for moments like that. Off the court- the northern lights no question! I didn’t even know northern lights were a thing until I got to Iceland, but the lights were so beautiful. It was so surreal and they honestly seem fake, I’ve never seen anything like that in my life. Also, traveling/exploring the country with my girlfriend was truly a blessing! Iceland is such a beautiful country, I recommend everyone to go at least once in their lifetime if they can”, warned Aamondae Coleman. He scored in double figures in all 21 games and had 20 points or more 14 times including 37 points against Hrunamenn and 34 points against Selfoss and Throttur V.
The Nevada native who lists Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Steph Curry, and Kobe Bryant on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is playing this season with German Regionalliga team BG Dorsten. The Regionalliga is so far away from higher leagues, but hey guys that love the game and grind know exactly that they are so blessed for any kind of an opportunity. “It’s been great! BG Dorsten is such an amazing club and I truly love it out here; my teammates are amazing and my coach is such a great coach and allows me to play free and trust in my ability. It truly is a blessing having a coach that believes in you, allows you to be confident on the court! Also, we have the best fans in Germany! Definitely looking forward to playing in front of them the rest of this season”, said Aamondae Coleman. When you come from Dallas, you definitely know about German basketball. It´s amazing how some young Americans balling overseas aren´t even aware that Germany are currently world champions. But when you grew up watching Dirk Nowitzki, then you know the facts. “ I am aware, they did beat us last year in the FIBA championships. Personally, I know that Germany is a powerhouse in the basketball world. Also, I grew up in Dallas so my favorite player all time is Dirk Nowitzki, he’s my personal GOAT! If you would have told 8 year old Aamondae that you’ll be playing basketball later in life where Dirk was born, I would have been so excited and probably wouldn’t have believed it. But Germany is a powerhouse in basketball, I have to give the country their credit”, warned Aamondae Coleman. He has seen so much beauty in the last few years in Cyprus, Georgia and Iceland and it isn´t any different in Germany for him. “I really enjoy the outdoor life/nature scenery of the country. Germany is truly such a beautiful country and I honestly didn’t know it was this nice here. Everywhere I go I try to take pictures and just soak it all in/enjoy the moment”, commented Aamondae Coleman.
The versatile player who lists Lebron James as his GOAT and believes that the classic Coming To America film should have been left alone played in Iceland last season and like this season dominated. This season he is averaging 27/10/2 stats in Germany. Did it sometimes feel like he was a man playing among boys? “Both leagues are very similar but I’d say that this league has a little more talent from what I’ve seen. We have played some very talented players in some of our first few games that’s for sure. I’ll leave that up to the fans/media to decide lol, but there are some great players in this league for sure. I’ve come out the gate hot, so I just have to keep working and stay humble/ready b/c I know defenses will probably start to key in on me more as the season progresses”, stated Aamondae Coleman. So what kind of player is he exactly who believes he is a mixture of players like Paolo Banchero, Julius Randle, and Draymond Green? “Most of my life I’ve been told I was a “tweaner” which I used to view with a negative mindset, but as I’ve gotten older it’s actually helped my game out a lot b/c I’m a “big” but not a traditional big man. I can handle the ball when needed, shoot, or play under the rim. Basketball today is positionless, so I’m trying to have as few weaknesses as possible”, expressed Aamondae Coleman. He can score the ball with ease and grab rebounds endlessly, but he can do so much as versatility could be his middle name. “I feel like that I’m an underrated passer and defender. Offensively I usually attract a lot of attention from the defense, so I always try to make the defense pay and find my teammates when they’re open! Defensively, I feel that I am very versatile/well-rounded. I can guard most positions 1-4 and sometimes even the 5”, stressed Aamondae Coleman. One has to wonder how far he could fly up the basketball ladder, if he used the three pointer on a consistent rate. This season there were 3 games where you took no three´s. Two seasons ago you took no three´s in Georgia but more in Cyprus. “ Honestly, I feel that my 3 pointer is very developed and I think my collegiate stats will show that. I’m not saying I’m the best shooter in the world, but I can definitely make a shot when open. It honestly just depends on my role with the club and the situation. It’s a little different overseas and a little harder to get some looks for many different reasons, but I’m a very confident shooter and I feel time will show that. I work on my 3 pointer daily so when those opportunities do come, I’m ready”, warned Aamondae Coleman. He is also a great defender, but doesn´t fill the stat sheet like crazy. In Iceland he averaged 1 steal and 1 block for first time in career. Is he a guy that does many little things not seen on the stat sheet? “Honestly, yes. I love to take charges. I took over 50 in college and I’ve taken 5 or more this year. I’m a well-rounded/versatile/solid defender who can guard multiple poisons, which is good in our defensive schemes b/c we like to switch a lot”, added Aamondae Coleman. It will be interesting to see how his career will continue to progress. He is the son of a well known ex NBA player Marcus Fizer and saw how the NBA life was, but nothing was ever given to him as he continues to grind in small gym´s in Germany. He will never be satisfied even if he gets to higher leagues. It is only fitting that he has a chip on his shoulder. How big is it? “ It’s huge honestly. I feel like it has to be, it’s what motivates me to stay disciplined and keep improving daily. I also feel that it helps me avoid complacency too; complacency is very dangerous and as an athlete I know that I have to avoid it”, warned Aamondae. I will continue to follow his career and am sure he will go his way. Who know maybe one day, I will interview a third generation baller in the family.
Bryant Thomas (203-C-1999, college: C-N) is a 25 year old 203cm forward from North Carolina playing his rookie season with Inter Bratislavia (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). He began his basketball career at South Mecklenburg high school. He then played a season at the University Of North Carolina-Charlotte. He then played at Carson-Newman University (NCAA2) from 2019-2023 averaging 10.1ppg, 7.8rpg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 72.5% and 14.6ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.2apg, 2.3bpg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 74.3% in his last 2 seasons. He spoke to germanhoops.combefore a ENBL game against Bamberg.
Thanks Bryant for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second pro season and first with Inter Bratislava (Slovakia-Tipos).What has it been like playing with this organization that has won 13 titles? What have you enjoyed most about the organization? It’s great, historically they’ve been a winning team so I’m trying to help my team get back to that winning atmosphere.
After being in Serbia and Bulgaria, you now are playing in Slovakia. How have you taken in the culture of Bratislava? Is it like a culture shock compared to Charlotte, North Carolina ? it’s been but yet I’m still trying to embrace it and enjoy the experience it’s not everyday you go to Slovakia so I´m definitely embracing it. it’s completely different from America forsure and of course North Carolina but it´s different and new but embracing it.
Inter Bratislava (Slovakia-Tipos) last won a title 5 years ago. Do you feel that need to win again from the organization? How high are the expectations?
Yeah of course winning a championship is always the main goal & expectations from everyone is always high because all teams a wants to win.
The club has a good mix of Americans and Slovakian players. What exactly is your role on the team? Are you something like the defensive anchor? Defense is definitely is my strong suit but also catching and shooting and finishing around the rim will help my team on the offensive side.
What has it been like being teammates with Dontay Caruthers and Isaiah Cousins? How important is their veteran leadership and what do appreciate most about their games? theyre cool individuals. They’re highspeed game style is great for our team and a player like myself. They add a winning atmosphere to our team and does what it takes to try to get us wins every night.
What has it been like being teammates with Justin Mccall? He is a great defensive player like you. How do you profit most from his game?
He is also a cool individual, he is a super athletic player and who can do a little bit of everything having a player on our team that can defend and do a little bit ofeverything is always great to play along side of.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? Hmm…NBA comparisons maybe Pascal Siakam / Jaren Jackson / Evan Mobley.
You’re a scorer and rebounder and can block shots. What other strengths does your game incorporate? Definitely catching and shooting.and my quickeness for my size gives me an advantage when I’m on the court
You’re a very good three point shooter. How would you describe the current development of your shot. Do you see yourself increasing your outside shooting volume in the future or does it depend on the situation and what the defense gives you?
Depends on what role my team needs for me but overtime I created a shot for myself and it just kind of took time to train to become a better shooter.
You’re an incredible defender and shot blocker. Where would you put your defensive game at the moment? Are you an elite defender yet or still working to become one? I would say my defense is just something that kind of comes natural for me when in doubt I know I can always rely on my defense
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? Becoming more of a consistent shooter and also more turnaround shots from the post and in the paint
Last season you played with BC Spartak Pleven (Bulgaria-NBL) averaging 9.9ppg, 5.4rpg, Blocks-2 (1.3bpg), FGP: 64.1%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 74.5%; and in the ENBL averaged 11.2ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 65.2%, 3PT: 45.5%, FT: 73.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? Umm a wake up call would be me traveling to tarty playing in a different country for the first time
You had an incredible 20/9 game against Cherno More with 8 blocks. Could you imagine ever achieving a triple double with blocks? Yeah I could imagine it I used to get triple doubles with blocks in high school haha
What was it like being teammates with ex NBA player Rodney Purvis? Did you guys gel well? Your both from North Carolina. He was cool. A great scorer
You played 2 seasons at the The University of North Carolina at Charlotte (NCAA) playing 10 games. Despite not playing many games, what positives did you get from this experience? Just the college experience playing division 1 it was all a learning experience honestly I was fairly new to the game.
You played at Carson-Newman University (NCAA2) from 2019-2023. You improved your scoring each season. How did you grow as a player there? What kind of player were you when you arrived and what player when you left?
Through my head coach their simplifying the game for me. I didn’t really have a game at the time. I was athletic could play defense and could hit a open shot here and there but I worked created an inside game there. I had a feel for the game at the time when I first started but didn’t have a solidified game.
You won the SAC title in 2021. What memories do you have of that run and what was so special about the team?
It was great we had players that all excelled in their role and did their role perfect that led us to win the conference championship that was a surreal moment for sure.
You had many great games against Lees-Mcrae, Wingate and Mars Hill. What was your greatest game in the NCAA? Wingate for sure. I was feeling good I felt like no one could guard me lol
How did head coach Chuck Benson groom and prepare you best for a professional career? I would say he did a good job.. More of the aspects of knowing how to be successful at doing little as things that means much later in life than just basketball. Those characteristics I built helped me become who I am today without even knowing it at the time.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Ivan Hadzic? We used to play 1-1 in the post multiple times. Ivan had his days and I had mine.
Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA? Coby White
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Ej bush
Tripp Davis
Ren Dyer
Luke Brenegan
Jon Davis
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?
Kobe Bryant
Kevin Durant
Stephen Curry
Hakeem olajuwon
Giannis
Who is your GOAT?
Kobe Bryant
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I haven’t seen the part 2 but I definitely think they should left it alone everything doesn’t need a sequel.
Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheineStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.
Congrats on the big 86-84 win over the Ahorn Baskets. How giant was the desire to win after the tough crunch time loss against The Basketball Lowen last week? It was a very much needed this win, wanted to get back in the winning column.
Did the team get out of the bed on the wrong side after allowing 31 points in the first quarter. What happened on defense and what adjustments did the team make to allow only 12 points in the second quarter?
We came out flat and wasn’t playing our aggressive and principal defense. We just had to up our energy and play harder and the results were drastically different from the first to the second.
It was an up and down on defense. In the third quarter they rebounded again for 27 points. They didn´t have one guy that stepped up but it was a team effort. What made it so difficult to slow that team down? We came out again in the third flat and made some mistakes that shouldn’t have happened, and when we did play well, we didn’t finish with a box out. They were a good team and they all played hard so it made it very difficult.
The fourth quarter couldn´t have been more exciting as the RheinStars came from way down to make a 21-5 run to win the game? Talk a little about that amazing comeback? That was a great quarter for us, I feel we all just locked in on defense together in the 4th. We picked up the intensity and just chipped away with the stops we were getting. Guys made big plays on both end of the court and felt great to come out with the win.
Ruppert Hennen was big as usual, but so was Janis Von Seckendorf who added 12 points. How valuable is his play at both ends?
Janis plays with a lot of energy and aggression so it’s great having that type of player on the court especially on our team. He is a very key player for us
You had a solid game with 17 points. You shot the three well but only 2/8 from the 2 point area. How much do those missed shots annoy you on a Sunday?
Yeah was very annoyed because most were layups that should’ve made, but just have to be stronger and focus more when attacking the basket. Those were easy points the team needed.
You also made 5 assists. How much of a playmaker can you be?
We have guys that can make shots so I just feeling made the simple pass to the guys that were open. I feel I can play make some but really was just not over doing it and just making the simple extra pass.
The next game is against Coburg who are 3-4. What will be key for the win?
Key will to come out with energy and keep good energy from start to finish. We need to really lock in on our defensive principles and play with urgency and intensity for a full 40 minutes.
RJ Gunn (201-G/F-1999, college: Duquesne, agency: Players Group) is a 25 year old 201cm forward from Columbia, South Carolina playing his second professional season and first with Inter Bratislava (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). He played his rookie season with LWD Basket Leeuwarden (Holland-DBL) averaging 9.5ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 47.0%, 3FGP: 34.5%, FT: 85.2% in the BNXT league and played with Corsarios Cartagena (Colombia-Liga W) averaging 14.4ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 77.3%. He began his basketball career at Irmo high school and then played 4 years at Lenoir-Rhyne College (NCAA2) an din his last 2 seasons averaged 19.6ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 49.9%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 74.1% and 16.6ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 81.0%. He then finished at the University of Duquesne (NCAA) averaging 8.1ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 69.2%). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.
Thanks RJ for talking to germanhoops.com com. Your playing your second pro season and first
with Inter Bratislava (Slovakia-Tipos).What has it been like playing with this organization that
has won 13 titles? What have you enjoyed most about the organization?
It’s been great. I think playing for an organization like this when we play in Slovakia everyone
is out to get us and it makes it fun and competitive to know you have that target on your back at
all times. We have some great people in this organization who understand how hard we work and they do a great job of working hard right alongside us players by making sure we are prepared to play
and helping us take care of our bodies through the long season.
After being in Holland you now are playing in Slovakia. How have you taken in the culture of
Bratislava? Is it like a culture shock compared to Columbia, South Carolina?
Being from Columbia I wouldn’t say Slovakia is a culture shock but compared to Holland the
lifestyle is different. I can walk around without having to check for the bike riders and I am slowly
starting to learn some words and pick up on phrases in Slovak because there everyone doesn’t
speak English as well as the people in holland.
Inter Bratislava (Slovakia-Tipos) last won a title 5 years ago. Do you feel that need to win again
from the organization? How high are the expectations?
We know that there is a rich history here in this organization but we don’t feel pressure to win. I
think we are confident with the group that we have that we will win.
The club has a good mix of Americans and Slovakian players. What exactly is your role on the
team? Are you the go to guy?
I wouldn’t necessarily call myself the go to guy because we have a lot of talent but I recognize
my importance to the team. I would say my role is to create space on the floor and create miss
matches offensively and defensively take away advantages by being able to cover multiple
positions.
What has it been like being teammates with Dontay Caruthers and Isaiah Cousins? How
important is their veteran leadership and what do appreciate most about their games?
Their experience has helped us tremendously especially being our main ball handlers because
they can make the right plays at the end of the shot clock. The leadership they provide is
needed and they both have different styles. Dontay is very vocal and helps us keep our
communication up. Cousins is a gym rat so it creates a competitiveness within the team to stay
in the weight room and on the court and I listen and observe from them and work to implement
those things into my DNA as a player.
What has it been like being teammates with Justin Mccall and Bryant Thomas? What do these
young players give the team that you appreciate the most?
They both bring energy and competitiveness to the games and practices. It’s natural for things
to become routine and a little repetitive as you have more and more practices with the same
teammates and going over some of the same things in practice but they both bring energy and
competitiveness that keeps things fresh and you have to be prepared to give your best because
they go hard every possession every day.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward If you had to compare your game to an
NBA player who would best fit the description?
I’m not exactly sure what current NBA player my game resembles but I think my game
resembles some older or retired players. The best comparison I think is Rashad Lewis; he
played very simple and efficiently. He also stretched the floor and created mismatches because
of his versatility and size.
You are a great scorer, but also a versatile offensive player. Talk about other strengths in your
game?
Offensively I think I’m underrated as a passer because I don’t have a lot of assists which to me
doesn’t always mean you’re a good passer. My passing makes it difficult to double team me in
the post because I try to be patient with the ball to make the right pass
You have been a solid three point shooter, but this year exploded shooting 50% and better in
both competitions. How do you explain this massive increase in shooting percentage?
I have been focusing on shooting the same shot every time and also a lot of form shooting. I
have also been taking the right shots as well as having teammates who look for me and get me
the ball on time and on target.
What kind of a defender would you call yourself right now and where do you still want to take
your defensive game to?
I can be a great defender at times and I have made strides on the defensive end thanks to
watching more film and working on positioning. Also staying focused and understanding the
scouting report on each player since I switch onto a lot of different players throughout the game.
The main thing I am getting better at is playing defense through screens which again is staying
focused and having the right positioning to be able to create the right angles to stay in front of
the defender when there is an on ball or off ball screen.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your
game?
My lateral quickness and positioning on defense to become a better on ball defender so I can
cover shifty guards better and also be better in pick and roll defensive coverages on the ball to
be able to help my team play bigger lineups where I may play the 3 in those situations.
Also my ball handling and reading the floor which will make me even more of a threat
offensively because I haven’t been the player handling the ball in pick and roll but my last year
at Lenoir Rhyne coach Sullivan and I talked about it and started working on it then and in the
off-seasons I have continued it.
Last season you played with LWD Basket Leeuwarden (Holland) averaging 9.5ppg, 4.3rpg,
1.4apg, 2FGP: 47.0%, 3FGP: 34.5%, FT: 85.2%. What do you remember being your wake up
call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
To me the most challenging thing was balancing the life I have at home while I’m in a
completely different country because family is very important to me. It is difficult living in such a
different time zone because it is almost like I am keeping up with 2 days at one time. The day in
Europe and I was 6 hours ahead so one my last practice ends I am trying to keep up with home
and their day is basically just starting.
Last summer you played with Corsarios Cartagena (Colombia) averaging 14.4ppg, 5.6rpg,
1.4apg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 77.3%. What kind of an experience was it getting added
experience before coming back overseas for year 2?
I think that experience helped me grow as a professional because at times a lot was asked of
me and I had to mentally prepare and perform at a high level every game. Also the schedule
was 2 games a week and back to back so it helped me learn to prepare my body for any
situation.
You played at Lenoir-Rhyne College (NCAA2) from 2017-2021 and made a big jump in your
game in your last 2 seasons averaging 19.6ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 49.9%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT:
74.1% and 16.6ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 81.0%. How did your game
grow in your last 2 years?
The main thing for me was my body. I spent a lot of time on strength and conditioning during
both of those summers. I met 2 people, Carlos Powel and Torrel Martin who both played
professionally at a high level for a long time and they completely changed my life and gave me
the guidance I needed to know what it means to be a professional.
You had a massive game against Clayton State scoring 36 points. What memories do you have
of that explosive day? You won 103-99.
It’s funny that most people don’t know I was not having a good game in the first half so what I
remember the most was getting chewed out by my head coach Everick Sullivan and my
roommate Davion Bradford and they were completely honest about how bad I was and I took
that anger out on the court and we won the game
How vital was Everick Sullivan in your basketball development at Lenoir-Rhyne? Did he give
you the keys to the team in year 3?
Coach Sullivan was very hard on me and had high expectations of me coming into the
program and that’s one other reason I started working on my body and focusing on more than
just on the court. By my 3rd year he could see the changes I made and how serious I was and I
don’t think he had to give me the keys I just did whatever we needed to win the games. He also
played professionally and he helped understand the jump I needed to make to have a chance.
You added a season at the University of Duquesne (NCAA) averaging 8.1ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP:
44.6%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 69.2%. How important was it getting an extra season and playing for
Keith Dambrot? How did he help give you that last touch of knowledge before turning pro?
More than anything else Coach Dambrot taught me to do my job. He is very intense and every
practice you can hear him screaming on the side and it was a bit of a shock at first but over time
I realized what he was looking for was consistency every day. He challenges you by trying to
get under your skin and It definitely helped me play with more passion and a better motor. When
I decided to go to Duquesne I told them I wanted to be a pro and Coach Dambrot and the entire
staff from the 2 years I spent there guided me and taught me to be more professional.
Dru Joyce is head coach now. He was an assistant in his first year when you were there? What
will you always remember about him as a coach? Did you know he won 3 state titles with
Lebron James?
What I will remember about Coach Joyce is his willingness to listen to the players and his
honesty. There were some tough conversations I had with coach, even talking to him while I
played with LWD basket. The first year was challenging and he listened to me and gave me
advice on how to be better and what my focus should be on. He was honest and didn’t sugar
coat it. I appreciate having that relationship. I think if you are a real basketball fan and know anything about Lebron James you know who coach Joyce is and it surprised me but while I was there coach Joyce can still hoop.
You scored 7 points in a 77-52 loss against NCAA powerhouse Kentucky. What memories do
you have of that game and what Wild Cat player impressed you the most?
What I remember most about that game was thinking about the journey I had from Lenoir
Rhyne to them and feeling proud to have gone through the obstacles to get to a division 1
school and play against a historical program like Kentucky when so many people felt I wasn’t
good enough it felt good to compete against them to test myself. The most impressive player from that game was Sahvir Wheeler because of his ability to control the game. We came out with a lot of energy and the game was close. We were a good team but once he got on the court he was able to get everyone involved offensively and their energy changed and they were more focused. He seemed like the leader of the team because that’s when the game was no longer in our control.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tre Williams?
Me and Tre had a lot of battles in practice because we have different play styles. He’s a
monster in the paint and I step out in the perimeter a lot but I’ll say I won overall because I hit
more 3s.
Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA?
My 2nd year at Lenoir Rhyne I couldn’t stop Grant Williams. We played Tennessee in an
exhibition game at the beginning of the year and I made some quick fouls because he was
smart and played with a lot of patience.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
In no particular order I’ll go with college. Darrius Simmons (Lenoir Rhyne), Davion Bradford
(Lenoir Rhyne), Corey Thomas (Lenoir Rhyne), Tre Clark (Duquesne), Dae Dae Grant
Chris Carter (193-G-1992, college: Florida Tech) is a 32 year old 193cm guard that is playing his 10th professional season overseas and ninth in Germany and first with Medipolis Jena. He began his basketball career at the Air Force academy. He then played at Air Force (NCAA) and Florida Institute of Technology (NCAA2). He began his pro basketball career in the Ukraine and then played in Germany with the Niners Chemnitz and Rasta Vechta. He helped all 3 German teams that he played with move up a league. He then played 4 years with the Rostock Seawolves.He has played 300 + pro games and 97 easyCredit BBL games. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big win over Kirchheim.
Thanks Chris for talking to germanhoops.com Congrats on the big win against Kirchheim. The club is currently on it´s second win streak after losing to Trier in between. How is the team better now in comparison to the first win streak? I think we are just getting a better understanding of what it takes to win games at a high level.
Jena jumped all over Kirchheim at the start and led 26-20. 20 points was still a lot of points to allow. What do believe led to Kirchheim being able to score better after your quick start? They have very talented individuals that can score the ball well.
Diminutive point guard Zac Cooks gave good energy at the start. How do you guys compliment each other best? You guys play a lot together which puts you more at the 2 when that happens?
Yes Zach is a phenomeal player who can shoot the ball well and bring speed that is just tough to handle. I think we balance each other well out and it´s hard to prepare for.
The game was dead locked at 45-45. Kirchheim came back. Cam Henry gave Kirchheim good energy. After 33 points on Friday, he only netted 15 against Jena. What makes him so difficult to slow down? He can score the ball very well and plays with extreme confidence. I like his game.
Jena led by 3 points in a tight game after 3 quarters. What did head coach Bjoern Harmsen tell you guys to do better going into the fourth quarter? Just to take your matchups personal on defense and get stops. Then move the ball on offense.
In the fourth quarter Zach Cooks led the charge and made big baskets to secure the win. What else was key for getting the win in crunch time?
Just playing smart and using the clock to our advantage. Then exploiting the mismatch.
The team found a good rhythm on defense early in the season allowing 76 points per game. Does this team have the will to step it up a notch in the second half of the season? What still has to be tweaked? Yes we have to play much better on defense and there is still a lot to improve on. We have to put the work in daily.
What has it been like being teammates with ultra veteran Raymond Morgan. He is nearing the end of his career and plays very little. From vet to vet, what can a guy like you still add to your game from a guy like that?
He is a great teammate and I think he still has some more good years in the tank if he wants. I would say besides how strong he is, what surprised me is how good of a free throw shooter he is.
Another great teammate is Rasheed Moore a player that simply can do it all and is the ultimate team player. Is there anything that you haven´t seen him do yet?
Rasheed can play pretty much every position which is a pleasure to have. I always played against him in the past years so I am just happy to be on the same team this time. Great player.
Kristofer Krause gave good energy and points at many junctures in the game. He has developed well from a pro b player into a Pro A player. What have you appreciated most about his game?
Krissi is a great player that brings energy and I think is the best defender in the league. But now he is playing with confidence on offense and he is just another problem that teams have to worry about.
Your playing your first season with Jena. One thing you have done well your whole career has been choosing the right winning teams. This could be your 4th team that you help reach the BBL. What makes this team so special? The team chemistry is great with this group of guys. It would be special to go for number 4 but it would be my first as a German.
You have been working some months with Bjoern Harmsen. Are you like an added assistant coach? What do you appreciate most about his coaching philosophy?
No, I wouldn’t say that. I am still a player and I lead the best way I can. Bjorn is a genius as a coach and knows how to make adjustments. He is a hard nosed coach but I can appreciate that.
Your averaging the most minutes since your senior year at Florida Tech with 30. That is very special with age 32. Do you feel like your aging like fine wine on the court Yeah I think that I am playing at a high level and have a lot of good years in the tank God willing.
This is your best Pro A season as a pro. You had strong seasons from 2016-2018 with Chemnitz and Vechta. Does the game feel easier for you now with more experience despite being older? Yes I definitely can see my experience playing a huge factor to the success of the team so far as well as quality coaching.
How would you compare the Pro A now with 2016. The Pro A is more competitive now, but how else is it different now than then?
The pro A is drastically more competitive. The talent on each team is much better with more quality. Also guys coming down from the first league is helping strengthen the league too.
What duties do you have this season besides leadership? There are so many incredible personalities on the team. Is leadership less of a duty this season than in season´s past? Yeah I don’t really try to lead. I just try to have fun and stay positive and whatever happens happens.
Are you like a mentor for Raphael Falkenthal? How have you observed his development? What does he need to do to make the next step?
He is a great young talent and I try my best to give him confidence and put him through all the drills that I do. I think the more reps he gets then he will continue making big steps forward.
You have lived in many great cities in Germany. Now Jena is home. What do you enjoy most about the city? It’s a small city where everything is a 5-10 min drive so I like it.
Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Zach Cooks? He is a great 1v1 player but I think I would use my size.
Justin McCall (197-SF-1999, college: CSUB) is a 25 year old 197cm forward from Bakersfield, California playing his third professional season and first with Inter Bratislava (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). Last season he played with Akademik Plovdiv (Bulgaria-NBL) averaging 14.3ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 61.9%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 77.3%. He played his rookie season with Valmiera Glass/Vidzemes Augstskola (Latvia-LBL) averaging11.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 73.3% in the ENBL and in the Lat-Est BL) averaged 11.2ppg, 5.9rpg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 67.1%. He began his basketball career at Ridgeview High School and then played at California State University Bakersfield (NCAA) from 2017-2022 playing a total of 141 games. He spoke to germanmhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.
Thanks Justin for talking togermanhoops.com. Your playing your third pro season and first with Inter Bratislava (Slovakia-Tipos).What has it been like playing with this organization that has won 13 titles? What have you enjoyed most about the organization?
It has been great playing for Inter Bratislava, I’m happy with the beautiful city, my coaches, my teammates, and the entire organization as a whole. We also play in front of some amazing fans. What I have enjoyed the most here is the style of play that we have under coach Naglic. We play a fast paced and free flowing offense that I am able to benefit from with my athleticism.
After being in Latvia and Bulgaria, you now are playing in Slovakia. How have you taken in the culture of Bratislava? Is it like a culture shock compared to Bakersfield, California?
I like living in Bratislava, it’s a big city so there are different things to do here. I always try to go sightseeing and learn about different cultures when I’m in a new country, so I’ve gone to see a few things but still have more places to visit here. Compared to Bakersfield it is completely different, but with this being my third season in Europe, I don’t experience the same culture shock that I had in my first season.
Inter Bratislava (Slovakia-Tipos) last won a title 5 years ago. Do you feel that need to win again from the organization? How high are the expectations?
I feel like we have high expectations to contend for a championship. We have a talented roster and I feel like we have all the right pieces to be a championship team. We have to keep improving and continue to build our chemistry, but we definitely everything we need to be a championship team.
The club has a good mix of Americans and Slovakian players. What exactly is your role on the team? Are you something like the defensive anchor?
I would say I am like a Swiss army knife for the team. I bring a lot of energy and I have the ability to do many different things on the court. I can defend multiple positions, rebound, pass, and score. In other words, I feel confident that I meet the expectations of modern positionless basketball something I enjoy very much.
What has it been like being teammates with Dontay Caruthers and Isaiah Cousins? How important is their veteran leadership and what do appreciate most about their games?
It has been great being teammates with Dontay and Isaiah. They are both veteran guys who bring a wealth of experience to the team and are like an extra set of coaches on the court for us. I think they are both great players and I love playing with both of them. I love being on the court with Dontay because I’m a great cutter and he’s able to find me a lot of times with his passing ability. I also love being on the court with Isaiah because he is like a microwave and can score a lot of points in a short amount of time and he makes big shots when we need them. He’s also a quality passer as well.
What is it like being teammates with Bryant Thomas? He is a great defensive player like you. How do you profit most from his game? Bryant is one of my favorite teammates and enjoy playing with him because we both like to play defense and he flies around the court like me. He’s very athletic and he’s able to erase a lot of defensive breakdowns with his shot blocking ability.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 197cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
If I had to compare myself to an NBA player, I would say Andre Iguodala, he can do a lot of different things on the court similar to me, he was a smart player and great defender. He was a big piece to the Warriors championship run and was one of the most underrated players in the NBA.
You’re a scorer and rebounder and can block shots. What other strengths does your game incorporate?
I think one of my strengths is being a guy that doesn’t mind doing the dirty work like taking charges, setting a hard screen, or diving on the floor for a loose ball because I know that the little things contribute to winning.
You’re three pointer is still a work in progress. How would you describe the current development of your shot. Do you see yourself increasing your outside shooting volume in the future or does it depend on the situation and what the defense gives you? I’ve worked a lot this past summer on my shooting and feel really confident in it right now. Already and in seven games I shot 43.7% threes and I feel my shooting mechanics are good enough to sustain myself in high percentages. Another proof on this, is that opponents’ scouting doesn’t give me the open three anymore like they did in the past because they acknowledge my improvement in that area. It’s also worth noting that critical point in my shooting improvement was my encounter with the American shooting expert coach Mike Dunn who gave me the proper tips to improve my shooting. So yes, I can see myself taking more open good threes in the future.
You’re a sold defender. Where would you put your defensive game at the moment? Are you an elite defender yet or still working to become one?
I think I am a very good defender right now, but I think I still have room for improvement especially to be consistent being in front of fast guards. This will definitely make me even more valuable to my team.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? Like I said, I am enjoying taking a lot of reps in on my three point shot so I am described as an elite shooter as well one day.
Last season you played with Akademik Plovdiv (Bulgaria-NBL) averaging 14.3ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 61.9%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 77.3%. You lost both games to Spartak Plevin and Bryant Thomas. Has he ribbed you a bit this season reminding you of those battles? Well, every loss hurts but on the other hand for a young professional like me it’s a learning experience. Every loss and a bad performance provides the best opportunity to study mistakes and learn from them. He definitely has joked with me about it though.
You played your rookie season with Valmiera Glass/Vidzemes Augstskola (Latvia-LBL) averaging 11.2ppg, 5.9rpg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 67.1% What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
Definitely, it was something I was after especially because my sisters have been long time pros both in the WNBA and overseas. So the idea never scared me. My first pro experience was just not the best one overall. However, I want to thank my agency GBN and personally my agent Nick Vangelis for the two consecutive great placements he achieved for me in Bulgaria last year and of course now in beautiful Slovakia.
You played at CSU Bakersfield (NCAA) from 2017-2022 and grew as a player each season with scoring and minute average. How did your game grow best in those 5 years?
I spent a lot of time in the gym working with my assistant coach at Cal State Bakersfield, Mike Scott as well as my father. They really helped me to elevate my game mentally and physically.
What memories will you always have of Taze Moore? Did you know that first season that he was NBA material?
One memory I’ll always have of Taze is when we had a contest to see who could touch the highest on the backboard. We are the same height with similar wingspans so it was pretty even. In the end we both were really high up on the backboard but none of our teammates could tell a difference in our marks so we called it a tie. We always argued over who jumped the highest though. He’s a great guy though, one of the funniest teammates I’ve ever had. The first season I played with Taze I didn’t know he was NBA material, he was still pretty raw but he was always talented, so it’s not a surprise he is where he is now.
You had many great games in the NCAA, but where does your 26 points against CS Fullerton rank in your junior year?
Definitely the best game of my career, and some of the most fun I’ve had playing basketball. It felt like I could do no wrong that game. The only thing that makes it less special is that it was during COVID so there weren’t any fans around so it wasn’t the same atmosphere as a regular game, but my best game for sure regardless.
How did head coach Rod Barnes groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
I learned a ton of things from coach Barnes. He was a Naismith national coach of the year so you can only imagine the amount of knowledge he has to share. I feel like coach Barnes really thought me how to be a professional and how you should carry yourself in a professional environment. Of course the basketball knowledge I learned was endless, but learning how to be a professional is something that I really appreciated learning.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Taze Moore? I don’t think we have ever played 1 on 1 actually. We played a lot of king of the court with other teammates but never just me versus him. We’ll have to make it happen the next time we’re in a gym together.
Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA? I’ve played against a lot of guys that reached the NBA, but I’d say probably Rui Hachimura at Gonzaga.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Taze Moore, Jordan Roberts, Tervell Beck, Nelly Cummings, Onyeka Okongwu
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore? LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson
Who is your GOAT? Lebron James of course
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I have, and I definitely agree, some things should just be left alone.
Victor Bailey Jr (193-SG-1998, college: GMU) is a 26 year old 198cm forward from Austin, Texas that is playing his second pro season and first with the Niners Chemnitz averaging 12/2/2 stats in the easyCredit BBL and 10/3/3 in the Basketball Champions League. Last season he played his rookie season overseas helping German Pro A team PS Karlsruhe win the title averaging 13,3ppg and 2,0rpg. He began the season with Stella Artois Leuven Bears (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 9.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 39.0%, 3FGP: 34.3%, FT: 92.6%. He began his basketball career with McNeil High School. He began his NCAA career with the University of Oregon playing a total of 73 games. He averaged 6.7ppg, 1.7rpg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 87.0% and in his second year 7.4ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 91.1%. he then played 2 seasons at the University of Tennessee playing a total of 60 games averaging 10.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 82.8% and in his second season averaged 2.6ppg. He finished his NCAA career at George Mason University (NCAA) averaging 11.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 47.0%, FT: 80.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the win over teh EWE Baskets Oldenburg.
Congrats on the big 87-78 win over the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. How big was this win? After losing 4 of the first 5 games, the team now has won 5 of it´s last 6 games
That win was huge. We are starting to get comfortable with each other and are on a role now. I hope we can continue it especially in the BBL and also transform over to the BCL.
The first quarter was a real dog fight as no team could get away. Oliver Nkamhoua began with 2 massive dunks. How thrilling is it always getting power dunks from him? You see it so much. Yes absolutely. We are used to it. He is explosive and when you see that from him it gives everyone a boost. He gave us fire and it helped guys coming from the bench.
The Niners Chemnitz were able to control the game in the second quarter, but Oldenburg kept punching back. How proud were you of the team of being able to withstand their punches and still lead as you led 46-39.
We work on this in practice where we are able to get back up and withstand runs. Coach Rodrigo does a great job preparing us. So when we see it in games, we are prepared for it.
Oldenburg came out strong in the third quarter going on a run and getting three´s from Justin Jaworski. Is he one of those snipers you would always rather have on your team than have to play against him?
Yes. He is very talented and is one of those shooters where every shot he takes looks like it will go in. He got away a bit. He have to do a better job giving him tough looks and keeping him at bay and get hands in his face.
Chemnitz led by a few points going into the fourth quarter. Jeff Garret hit back to back three´s to pave the way to the win. Did that mentally hurt Oldenburg at that point?
You never know, but for us his three´s were huge. When we saw his shots go in, it gave us a lot of energy. It gave us a lot of confidence and was big for our mentality.
In the last 2,5 minutes, ultra veteran Deandre Lansdowne added 11 points just like that with 3 3 pointers. Did Chemnitz just want it more than Oldenburg?
Dre is our veteran. He just knows what to do in those moments. We just tried to follow his lead and do our part on defense. He got hot and just helps us whenever needed.
What do you believe was the biggest strength on this day for Chemnitz? Was it that knack of always being able to stick together when you needed it most? Yes absolutely. We practice hard in practice and that gets us prepared for games. We have seen it before in practice and are able to do it in games. We have to be able to keep building on these habits.
What kind of an experience has it been playing with ultra teammate Deandre Lansdowne? Where does he rank in all-time teammates that you have had in terms of leadership?
He is definitely up there. I came a bit late to the team, but he right away took me under his wing. He was moved mainly to point guard last season and had to get adjusted. The same thing happened to me this season and he has really been very supportive and helped me with the growing pains and how I can adapt best. He has been a big help and helped me speed up the process.
How vital is a guy like Jeff Garrett on the team? What have you appreciated most about his game? He is and is one of those guys that has been doing it for a while. He is another one of those guys that will help you and I will listen. He is a big help rebounding. He is everywhere on the rebound at both ends. He has helped me with his energy and communication.
Will Christmas is still finding his groove this season. He like you came from lower leagues to reach the BBL. He was even in the Pro B only a few years ago. How well can you relate to him being a player who continues to climb the basketball ladder?
Everyone on this team has a story. I can relate to his story and we have conversations and I like to pick his brain. We alternate at the point guard position. We try to help each other. He is a great teammate.
You came from one winning program PS Karlsruhe to the next with the Niners. What have you appreciated most about the organization? I have been blessed to have been part of teams if it was Tennessee, PS Karlsruhe or the Niners now where hard work has been very important. All these teams had and have a great work ethic. I´m seeing it again this season and it´s nothing new for me. I have been used to hard work my whole career and it´s great seeing how it´s paying off this season.
What has been the biggest adjustment coming from the Pro A to the easyCredit BBL for you? It has been the athleticism. I feel like the skill level is high at both levels. I just remember that for me it was easier to get lay up´s and getting to the rim in the Pro A. In the BBL, there are more blocks and deflections. Guys are so athletic in the BBL.
What has it been like playing for top coach Rodrigo Pastore? He has done incredible work in Chemnitz in the last years. How has he helped your game most?
He has been so encouraging and gives me all the confidence to be aggressive and be able to make mistakes, but at the same time also give constructive criticism. He tries all he can to make me a productive player and help us win. I really appreciate that. He pushes me very much.
Your putting up strong stats in the BBL and BCL. What kind of a player have you become in the short time you have been in these 2 new leagues?
For me it´s all about trying to adapt. I try to watch how other guys had success like a Tyrese Rice. He said on his podcast that being successful has to do with how well you adapt I just try to be as productive as possible and help my team win at any cost. I came in late in Karlsruhe last season and had to adapt to all. At the end we were Pro A champions. This season, I´m just trying to help the team win. That has been helping my game.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now to continue to be consistent in the BBL and BCL?
Scoring has always come natural to me. This season I´m trying to open up my game more at the point guard position. I want to be able to make plays and get guys open and make the extra pass. I want to make myself more of an allround player.
You scored 22 points in a BCL game in a big win over Benfica. Was that your best game so far as a professional?
It wasn´t my best game as a professional, but my best game in the BCL. I´m getting more comfortable in the BCL. I´m trying to get a better handle on it. I just want to go out into each game with the confidence that I can be consistent each night. That is the next step for me.
Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Deandre Lansdowne? We actually haven´t played et. I like playing against Oliver. I would like to play against him.
There is nothing better than watching real good youth u-19 basketball on a Sunday afternoon when 2 undeefated teams like Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners and Team Urspring square off. Both have had real success in the last years in the youth department as Team Urspring has won 5 NBBL titles and groomed young players then like Nicolai Simon, Lucca Staiger, Maurice Stuckey and Akeem Vargas just to name a few into solid Bundesliga players while Frankfurt won the JBBL (U-16)title once, but have reached the JBBL Final 4 and NBBL final 4´s the last years. Frankfurt has formed another fine team surrounded around top player Ivan Crnjac (203-F-2007) while Team Urspring have the luxury that a majority of the team are on the Pro B roster and combined have already played 40 Pro B games this season. One couldn´t ask for more experience. On a cold typical November afternoon Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners came on the floor with massive energy and never allowed Team Urspring to recover from their lightening start that allowed them to get a good lead which they were able to keep adding to in the next quarters. “The most important thing today was that we brought a lot of energy from the first second and were ready to play at both ends of the court. We disrupted their mentality right away which hurt their confidence. We gave a good team effort on defense helping each other and not allowing too many easy penetration baskets. We stopped their transition and rebounded very well in the second half”, stressed Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners guard Namori Omog (188-G-2006). Frankfurt jumped all over Team Urspring and they were never able to get out of the hole despite making a comeback effort in the fourth quarter. “We came out too weak and didn´t have the needed intensity. We couldn´t stop their transition and we just didn´t play well enough as a team and didn´t penetrate enough”, stressed Team Urspring German Jeno Pildner.
Ivan Crnjac hook shot
In the first quarter Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners jumped all over Team Urspring taking a early big lead, but the guests recuperated well and slid back into the game. Frankfurt began with an incredible amount of intensity at both ends taking the rapid 11-2 lead. Frankfurt had great ball movement and had lethal on ball pressure that Team Urspring had no answer for. This aggressive Frankfurt defense led to 8 big stops while on offense they displayed extreme ball movement and crisp execution. Namori Omog and Jamie Edoka scored transition baskets while athletic wing Maximilian Peters made a big trey and Mousa Tiago made a lay in and Ivan Crnjac a fade away jumper from the wing. Team Urspring got their first field goal at the 5,55 minute mark from Jeno Pildner. Frankfurt then dropped some of their defensive intensity which allowed the guests to get a trey from Guillaume Schoentgen and 2 easy lay in´s from big man Leon Geissler. It wasn´t easy for Frankfurt to contain the big man as he did a good job getting very good position and was even effective when double teamed. Frankfurt kept the lead leading 18-10 after 10 minutes as Crnjac and Edoka scored inside and Omog nailed a three pointer. “Frankfurt´s pressure was really strong. Urspring wasn´t ready for the pressure. They played better against the hedge. Frankfurt played good team ball. This was the first time that I saw Omog, Peters and Edoka play this season and they have made big steps from last season”, stated ex Frankfurt Skyliner Junior Drago Crnjac. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 47% from the field and 25% from outside and had 13 rebounds and 7 turnovers while Team Urspring shot 31% from the field and 25% from outside and had 6 rebounds and 7 turnovers.
Travis Davis jumper
In the second quarter Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners were able to up their offense, but also allowed 17 more points than in the first quarter to the guests, but still led by 10 points at the break. Team Urspring took that momentum they found from the last minutes of the first quarter into the second as they began with a 12-6 run to trail Frankfurt only 26-22. Suddenly it was a game again. In the run Team Urspring moved the ball well and got many involved. Diminutive point guard Travis Davis who came from Ludwigsburg scored twice using his quickness while versatile Schoentgen added 5 points and Pildner added a lay in. Frankfurt had lost energy on defense and the guests upped their defensive intensity getting easy transition baskets and forcing turnovers. Ivan Crnjac hit 2 clutch three pointers to keep Frankfurt ahead. His high release continues to help him this season. “Ivan has shown also in the Pro B his good outside shooting. He worked a lot on his shot this year. He also understands that a high release can be a strength. It makes so much harder to block and he is using that to his advantage”, explained brother Drago Crnjac. In the next minutes, Namori Omog was a one man wrecking crew adding 7 points, but Frankfurt led only 33-26. “He uses his athleticism to his advantage. He is so quick and uses his athleticism to create for others”, commented Drago Crnjac. Team Urspring executed a lot better and attacked the rim better getting easy lay in´s from Callum Macaulay and Felix Stoll, but still trailed 33-30. The guests just couldn´t get over the hump. Frankfurt then calmed down and closed out the second quarter with a lethal 12-5 run to lead 45-35. In the run Frankfurt got a lay in from Peters and trey from Crnjac while also getting to the free throw line as Omog scored 4 points. “Frankfurt defended well giving only 35 points. Frankfurt rebounded a lot better showing more concentration and hustle”, stated Drago Crnjac. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 47% from the field and 38% from the three point line and had 18 rebounds and 12 turnovers while Team Urspring shot 50% from the field and 40% from the three point line and had 11 rebounds and 14 turnovers.
Jamie Edoka lay in
In the third quarter Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners totally broke open the game scoring 28 points allowing 10 points less than in the second quarter and led by as much as 30 points and led by 22 points after 30 minutes. Frankfurt began with a harsh 13-4 run to lead 58-39. In the run, Frankfurt received massive production from sharp shooter Maximilian Peters (206-F-2007) who sunk 3 three pointers and Omog was as aggressive as always making 2 lay in´s on account of his quickness and athleticism. After a Davis off balance jumper, Frankfurt was at it again launching their next lethal run scoring 13 unanswered points to lead 71-41. In the run, Frankfurt got added support from Peters who supplied 5 points and his fourth three pointer of the quarter, while Edoka also got into the action scoring twice using his mid range game and made a reverse lay up while Mousa also scored. That basketball is a game of runs is so secret as Team Urspring weren´t fazed by that Frankfurt run and closed out the third quarter with a swift 10-2 run to trail 73-51 after 30 minutes. In the guests run, they were aided by 2 three´s from Schoentgen and Pildner. “We didn´t come in with the mind set. We just weren´t there mentally”, stated jeno Pildner. “We did a good job finding the right guy with Peters who got hot and just continued to give him the ball. We have no ego´s. We just give the guy who has the hot hand the ball. And Peters is a good shooter. We played at a high intensity at both ends and got to the free throw line”, said Namori Omog. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 56% from the field and 50% from the parking lot and had 26 rebounds and 18 turnovers while Team Urspring shot 42% from the field and 35% from the parking lot and had 21 rebounds and 22 turnovers.
Jeno Pildner from outside
Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners let up in the fourth quarter and Team Urspring won the quarter 17-14, but just didn´t have time to keep coming back. Team Urspring executed well in the first minutes getting big Man Leon Geissler the ball as he executed four times, but they couldn´t make ground as Peters made a floater and Crnjac a lay in on transition as Frankfurt led 79-59. After Ivan Crnjac reached the free throw line twice, Team Urspring had a strong phase going on a 9-0 run to trail 82-68. Frankfurt just didn´t have the high intensity anymore at both ends as the game was already won in their minds even if time still remained. In the run, the guests got three´s from Pildner and Julijo Kendes and a runner from Pablo Estelle. However it just wasn´t enough as time was running out. Frankfurt closed out the game strong with Omog free throws and a trey from German Fabrice Heberer. “It is harder to play well when your up 20 points than if it´s 0-0. We lost intensity. We need to work on keeping it up and continue to do those things that we did well through out the game. We finished strong with getting 3 offensive rebounds at the end”, said Namori Omog. “We made mistakes, but fought until the end. We never gave up. This was our first loss. We have to learn from it”, warned Jeno Pildner. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Namori Omog and Maximilian Peters with 23 points a piece. Ivan Crnjac added 18 points while Team Urspring was led by Jeno Pildner with 18 points while Leon Geissler added 17 points. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 48% from the field and 36% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 23 turnovers while team Urspring shot 41% from the field and 33% from outside and had 32 rebounds and 24 turnovers.
After a massive 82-80 win on the road in Ludwigsburg, the Skyliners Juniors returned back home to square off against FC Bayern Basketball 2. Frankfurt was lucky to escape Ludwigsburg with a win after producing 24 turnovers. Frankfurt came back into their living room sporting a 3-3 record and added self-confidence after a nail bitter win. Their opponent FC Bayern Munich was playing anything like the way a big time club should as they had a poor 1-5 record. The team had lost their big 3 of Kharchekov, Kalu and Randonic and had many new young players that were led by Dominic Dolic, Ivan Volf and Marco Frank. However on this night, Frankfurt had enough offensive power especially from Bruno Albrecht (189-SG-2001) who nailed 8 three´s for the third consecutive time at home plus guys like Ivan Crnjac and Dusan Nikolic who supplied points whenever the Munich was threatening. But it wasn´t just these 3 players that were key, but the whole team who contributed from start to end. “This was an absolute team effort. We moved the ball really well. We still had many turnovers, but that happens with a young team like ours. We have a great dynamic of drivers and shooters. We have big guards who supplied great pressure and we rebounded well”, stressed Bruno Albrecht. FC Bayern Basketball 2were unable to keep up with Frankfurt, but fought until the end despite being so young. “We have a super young team and guys have problems to adjust to the Pro B level. We missed a lot of shots tonight. We weren´t ready to compete in the third quarter and our moral went down. I´m proud how we kept fighting back in the fourth quarter”, stressed FC Bayern Basketball 2 assistant coach Federico Perego.
Ivan Crnjac at the FT line
The first quarter was a dog fight as no team was able to get away until the end when Dusan Nikolic nailed a trey for the 5 point advantage. The Skyliners Juniors got their three pointer going early as Bruno Albrecht hit twice while ex Wurzburg guard Philip Hadenfeld scored once while FC Bayern Basketball 2 elected to go inside and got 2 buckets from Montenengro guard Amar Licina and Italian Allesio Calamita scored twice off the pick and roll exchange with ex ANGT player Ivan Volf, but Frankfurt led 13-10. Frankfurt may have found a groove with their outside shooting, but they also tried to get 20 year old German big man Malik Kordel involved as he made a lay in and block while NBBL player Maximillian Peters made a floater. Ukraine big man Desmond Yiamu was aggressive and got to the free throw line, but also had problems making his free shots. Nikolic made a last second trey for the 21-16 lead after 10 minutes. The Skyliners Juniors shot 64% from the field and 80% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 5 turnovers while FC Bayern Basketball 2 shot 39% from the field and 0% from outside and had 10 rebounds and 3 turnovers. “We have had problems with our starts this season. We play sloppy and then become surprised how a young team like Bayern can play against us. We gave up too many turnovers”, stated Bruno Albrecht.
Amar Licina from outside
In the second quarter the Skyliners Juniors were able to keep the lead and control the game despite FC Bayern Basketball 2 not wilting, but fighting and staying in range. Frankfurt got some key buckets with a trey from Hadenfeldt and a powerful 2 handed dunk from Dusan Nikolic who came flying in from the wing and finished with authority to lead 26-18. With Kharchenkov and Kalu gone, Munich needs new guys to step up and one of those guys is Marco Frank who continues to develop his game in the last years. He stepped up with 5 unanswered points as Frankfurt led only 26-23. But Frankfurt always had an answer when Munich threatened as Ivan Crnjac nailed a trey for the 29-23 advantage. He would hit key shots many more times in the game then when the opponent was trying to get closer. “Ivan is so important for us. He is so solid in all areas. The way he takes those corner three´s where he takes the shot high is great. That is an incredible quality that not many have”, warned Bruno Albrecht. Munich continued to execute well under pressure getting a lay in from Croatian guard Dominik Dolic and 2 lay in´s from Desmond Yiamu as Frankfurt led only 34-29. But then it was time for the Felix Hecker show as he made a great spin move. He must of took some inspiration from Ja Morant´s amazing 360 basket a few days ago. “That is actually Felix´s signature move. We need more of that from him. I actually didn´t think of Ja Morants spin from a few days ago”, smiled Bruno Albrecht. Licina scored again using his quickness with a lay in as Frankfurt led 36-31. Then it was time for Ivan Crnjac to nail another trey for the 39-31 lead. In the last minutes, Dusan Nikolic made another 2 handed dunk and trey to keep Munich at bay trailing 45-33 at the break. “Dusan played really great. He is really efficient when he doesn´t turnover the ball”, said Bruno Albrecht. The Skyliners Juniors shot 52% from the field and 54% from the three point line and had 18 rebounds and 7 turnovers and the FC Bayern basketball 2 shot 42% from the field and 8% from the three point line and had 18 rebounds and 5 turnovers.
Dusan Nikolic for the dunk
In the third quarter the Skyliners Juniors continued to execute well on offense despite having a slow start where the guests couldn´t take advantage of. FC Bayern Basketball 2 stopped Frankfurt´s first 4 possessions, but couldn´t get more than a runner from Marco Frank to trail 45-35. Then Frankfurt just totally turned up their game going on a lethal 11-4 run to extend their lead to 56-39. In the run, they let it rain three´s as Crnjac, Hadenfeldt and Albrecht dropped three pointers and Malik Kordel made a thunderous dunk. After a Licina trey, Frankfurt scored 7 unanswered points to extend their lead once more to 63-42. In the run, they continued to display fine inside out basketball getting 2 lay in´s from Kordel and Nikolic and an off balance deep trey from Bruno Albrecht. Down the stretch, Marco Frank continued to take responsibility and scored twice, but Frankfurt also was able to punch back with baskets from Fabian Baumgarten and Hadenfeldt as Frankfurt led 67-46 after 30 minutes. “Our role problems did a super job taking over whenever we needed their support”, added Bruno Albrecht. “We kept missing shots and our moral continued to sink. It wasn´t easy for some of our young guys to battle against more experienced players”, stressed Federico Perego. The Skyliners Juniors shot 51% from the field and 55% from the parking lot and had 26 rebounds and 9 turnovers while FC Bayern Basketball 2 shot 40% from the field and 11% from the three point line and had 31 rebounds and 11 turnovers.
Alessio Calamita with the lay in
In the fourth quarter FC Bayern Basketball 2 began well coming back momentarily, but Frankfurt escaped their slow start and escaped their funk and found to their game again and executed well again and sailed home to the win. FC Bayern Basketball 2 began defending very aggressive and got 5 stops which led to 7 unanswered points as Munich cut Frankfurt´s lead to 67-53 as Calamita scored twice and Dominik Dolic nailed a three pointer. Jamie Edoka stopped the run with a lay in and Albrecht hit a trey for the 72-55 advantage. The guests stayed strong as Calamita remained unstoppable in the paint area with a lay in while Ivan Volf scored on transition as Frankfurt led only 72-60. However Frankfurt stayed calm under pressure and just relied on their team play and hot shooting and closed out the game strong with a 14-9 run getting timely shots whenever they needed to. Ivan Crnjac came through in the clutch again as he had so many times in the game making a runner and halting the momentary Munich momentum to lead 74-60. Frankfurt buckled down on defense which led to back to back three´s from Bruno Albrecht extending Frankfurt´s lead to 81-63. Munich got to the free throw line, but couldn´t make any ground and Frankfurt slammed the door shut on FC Bayern Basketball 2 with a nifty Edoka left handed lay in and Hecker three pointer for the win. “I was very proud how we finished the game. We played sloppy and then to be able to turn it around the way we did isn´t self evident with a young team like ours. I give a lot of credit to Hadenfeldt and Hecker for their leadership qualities”, stressed Bruno Albrecht. “We started aggressive and hit more shots, but couldn´t hold it very long”, said Federico Perego. The Skyliners Juniors were led by Bruno Albrecht with 27 points while Ivan Crnjac added 14 points and Philipp Hadenfeldt 12 points while FC Bayern basketball were led by Marco Frank with 18 points and Amar Licina had 10 points. The Skyliners Juniors shot 56% from the field and 60% from outside and had 32 rebounds and 18 turnovers while FC Bayern basketball shot 41% from the field and 13% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 14 turnovers.
German Hoops 