Shawn Scott (185-G-1996, college: SW Christian) is a 28 year old 185cm guard playing his third professional season and first with BG Hagen. Last season 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 teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.
Congrats Shawn on winning the playoff series against Hamm. What did it feel like playing 2 big playoff games with in 48 hours?
Thank you. I hadn’t played games that close apart in maybe a year so I forgot how mentally prepared and focused you have to be especially after losing one game and going into a do or die one day later.
BG Hagen lost a close game 2 to BG Hagen 82-78. I guess that was a perfect example that despite being the better team in the majority of the stats, you can still lose.
Yeah I mean we knew exactly where we lost the game and we completely choked at the end of the game.
I can imagine the crunch-time is something that didn´t leave your mind until tip off on Sunday? What preparations could the team make within 48 hours?
Right after that game 2 loss I wasn’t able to sleep hardly at all and I was just ready to play asap. We had a short meeting as a team and laid everything out on the table and kept it real with each other that we have got play better together and did some shooting. As soon as we lost I knew everyone was already locked in and ready for the next game.
BG Hagen came back in the do or die game and whipped Hamm 92-65. How proud were you of your team? It was the least amount of points the team gave up since the Lowen game. How much motivation did the Hamm game on Jan 26 give you where you gave up 64 points? To bounce back like that with a deserving win shows the type of team we have and how we’re able to come back within 48 hours with a dog mentality and play like we did. I couldn’t be more proud of the team and how we dominated the game from start to finish. Defense was the key and we asserted dominance defensively. We had no other game plan but to play defense the right way.
Was this do or die game one of those moments where the will and focus was able to carry the team to the win?
Most definitely. You could feel the seriousness in the gym from us that we meant nothing but business and we didn’t come here to play a close game. We wanted to win the game at half time and we never let up off the gas even a little bit.
How vital was it keeping Gilbert Gyamfi to 17 points average in his last 2 games? What adjustments did the team make on him?
We knew after his 41 point game in the first one that we couldn’t let him be that comfortable again. Everyone who guarded him kept him under pressure and contained at all times and didn’t really give him a chance to breathe. He was going to have to earn every single bucket and our guys couldn’t have done a better job really.
You left it all out on the court with 41 points. Did you have that mamba feeling going in?
I think I had never been more locked in for a game than this one. I knew what was on the line being that it was a do or die game and I refused to let us go out like this. No team practiced as hard as us and we gave Hamm hope after the game 2 loss and I just was determined to do everything on both sides of the floor to make sure we won the game.
Can you top your play in the next playoff round? Honestly I’m not thinking about my play too much. In the playoffs, it’s about the team who sticks together through the worst and best times and does their part to win games. As long as I leave everything on the court and do my job and we win, I’m not worried about anything else.
Who do you play next and what will be key in winning?
We play DTV Köln next and the key will again be defense and being very disciplined. This team is very smart and has probably the best chemistry in the league which is the most dangerous so we really will have to focus on what game plan the coaches have for us and being able to execute it. It’s going to be a dog fight but we’re ready for it all.
Elijah Mitrou-Long (185-PG-1996, college: UNLV) is a 27 year old 185cm guard from Ontario, Canada that is playing his fourth professional season and first with Peristeri BWin Athens (Greece-GBL). He also has played with other Greek teams AS Apollon Patras, PAOK Thessaloniki and Aris. He also played with Levski Sofia (Bulgaria-NBL) and the Niagara River Lions (CEBL). He played at 3 NCAA schools with Mount St Mary´s University, the University of Texas and the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. He spoke to after Peristeri won a do or die game on the road against the Telekom Baskets Bonn.
Congrats Elijah on reaching the Basketball Champions League Final 4. How excited do you feel right now? What does this BCL Final 4 achievement mean to the organization? Only 5 years ago it was still in the Greek second division? This means a lot but we haven’t done anything yet. We got 1 game at a time. But we are blessed and grateful for the advance in the BCL
Despite the tough game 1 loss in Bonn how was the mood of the team? Did you sense like you guys were still on a mission?
Yes we are always on a mission to be better until the season is over. No matter who we play. It is about us and who we are when we come to play it is not about anyone else.
After making a statement in game 2 with a 28 point win at home, you came back to Bonn and won. Did you guys just want it more? Yes we wanted it more but Bonn is a respectful club and organization that is why we couldn’t come ready or else we wouldn’t be ready for the game. We didn’t care about the game at home because we knew that they are a good team.
despite down 7-2 in the first quarter you came back with a 25-10 run to lead by 10 points. How confident were you after 10 minutes that no matter what happened, you weren´t going to lose this game?
We are confident in the work we put in and the position we put ourselves in in the BCL. We need to just worry about ourselves and I didn’t know the end result about losing or wining but I know we were ready for a battle from Bonn.
In the second quarter the Telekom Baskets Bonn came back with 26 points. Especially Harold Frey was hard to stop with 9 points. What did Peristeri get away from on the defensive end? Defense is the key to everything and weathering the storm of Bonn.
In the second half you did a good job as a team to manage the lead, but in the fourth quarter Bonn came back to trail only by 3 points. What was key to staying cool in a hostel environment?
We made the right plays down the stretch of the game and believed in the work you put in and also kept the Faith of God that everything will workout
In the end what was key for 40 minutes for the win? Was it the poor 2 point shooting of Bonn at 36% and the good Peristeri defense that got you the win?
The key was defense and staying calm when things got crazy. Yes, we wanted them to take tough 2’s and run them off the line.
As usual Joe Ragland was a real floor general leading the way with 21 points. What do you appreciate most about his play? He is a true PG. Veteran who had been in every situation before. He knows how to control things and we have confidence in his abilities
You had a very solid game with 15 points in 21 minutes. What is like playing for a legend in ex point guard Vasilis Spanoulis? It’s great experience playing for one of the greatest players to ever do it in this game. To see him want more than he has mostly everything is inspiring to us. Have to listen to what he says he knows what he knows, his knowledge is key.
You next will play the winner of Tofas-Tenerife. Do you have a favorite that you would like to have in the semi´s? We don’t care who we play. They are both great programs but at this point it’s about us an nobody else.
Ivan Crnjac (201-F-2007) is a 17 year old 201cm forward currently averaging 17,2ppg, 6,3rpg and 1,2apg in the NBBL (U-19) and has played 10 Pro B games averaging 4,2ppg and 1,9rpg. He helped the Fraport Skyliners win the B League title at the U-18 International Cup in Tokyo, Japan. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his 1 week experience at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament
You recently played at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament. What kind of an experience was that for you? It was a cool experience being able to be with the youth national team again and play against some of the best players in the world. It isn´t often that there is a youth international tournament in Germany. It was an honor for me to play there.
The German U-17 team went 0-5. Was the team better than it´s record?
I feel that yes we were better than our record. We had very young players and our chemistry wasn´t good simply because we had little time to prepare. For many guys this was the first national team experience.
Germany lost to Serbia by 65 points. What did you learn from the loss? It was incredible to see that despite being only a year older than us, just how dominant the Serbian players were. After every loss we had, our mindset went down. We hit nothing that day. Serbia was at another level with their physicality, conditioning and mentality.
The game against China was very exciting. Germany lost by 1 point. How tough was it to digest this loss?
We could of beat them. It was a pity that I got hurt in the fourth quarter and missed the last 7 minutes. We made tough baskets in the fourth quarter and then lost concentration. It was just a dumb loss.
How special of a player is Jervis Scheffs? How big is his ambition? He is very ambitious. He does a super job being able to create for himself. He is probably more a 2 than a 1. He competes very hard.
He said you could become one of the top players of the generation. How far could he go with his potential?
He also belongs to the top of the generation. I think we have like 6-7 guys that could be one of the top players of the generation. Each guy has a different role. Not every guy can be that guy.
There were so many talented players on the German U-17 team this time. Which player impressed you the most?
I think that Martin Petric impressed me the most. He has a lot of confidence and is already an adult player for his age. He has all the tools to become a great player. He showed how good he was during AST.
How content were you with your game? You had difficulty with your shooting percentage.
The first 2 games were my best scoring games during AST. However I didn´t have a good shooting week. Since the Rhondorf game, I had had an off shooting week. My shot didn´t fall that week. I drove well and represented myself well on defense. I had blocks. I would think that I left a lasting impression on defense. It would have been nice if my shot had fallen.
On what areas do you have to improve your game so you will be better the next time against older players? I need to work on my conditioning and explosiveness. I don´t feel like I´m quick enough. I also need a more consistent shot.
How important was head coach Dirk Bauermann for your development during the week?
He is a very good coach. He gave us good tips on offense and defense. He told me that he likes my fighting mentality. He pushed me very hard to be more of a hustler on the court.
Who was the toughest player that you faced during the AST? The toughest player I faced was a few days before AST in a test game against Australia. His name is Roman Siulepa. He was very quick and physical. He finished well and was an energizer. He was tough to defend and a real complete player.
David Teague (196-G-1983, college: Purdue) is a former professional player who had a stellar career from 2007-2014 playing in countries like Greece, France, Germany, Brazil, Italy, Argentina, Uruguay and Columbia. The Indiana native played at Purdue (NCAA) from 2002-2007 playing a total of 121 games and averaged 14,0ppg and 5,0rpg in his last 2 years. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the fantastic 2024 Purdue run to the NCAA final.
Thanks David for talking to germanmhoops.com. You have been retired as a pro player for a decade. You played at Purdue (NCAA) from 2002-2007. How has the game changed since when you played? How would a Purdue team from 2007 do in today´s game? The game is more open and fast-paced than when I last played in 2007. I think our Purdue team would fair well in today’s game because we were already a smaller team with players being able to play multiple positions.
Have you stayed a diehard Purdue fan since you left in 2007?
Yeah man. Not just Purdue University, but both of my coaches in Gene Keady and Matt Painter, have always created a family-type atmosphere. So once a Boiler always a Boiler.
With what kind of a feeling did you go into the final playing against the defending champs UConn?
I went into that game with a lot of confidence for my guys because I felt we had the secret weapon plus the complimentary pieces to get it done.
Where did you watch the game? At home or in a bar or with friends? I watched it at home with my wife and my youngest son.
Did you have any contact with former players leading up to the final?
Yeah I spoke to Zach Edey and Mason Gillis and told those guys just to continue to play hard, go through Zach, but stay confident.
Purdue lost 75-60. It seemed like one of those games where UConn was just a little better from start to finish. How do you summarize the end result? Yeah UConn was just the better team. Their guys performed in their roles and our guys didn’t, besides Zach.
Zach Edey was a 1 man wrecking crew with 37 points and 10 rebounds. He had a great game but how much were those extra scorers missing?
They were missing tremendously. That was the difference in the game. If Braden scores his usual 14-15 points and Fletcher is able to chip in at least 10-12, we win easily.
Edey was a beast dominating every game at March madness and even had 40 points against Tennessee. Would Purdue have had any chance without him? No way they have a chance without him.
You saw the championship game. How special is Zach Edey. How much stock did his game give him in the NBA Draft. How high could he go now?
I think his stock is high. His success in the NBA depends on the team he’s drafted to. Because so many teams play a smaller/stretch type of style, he has to go to the right situation.
Despite the loss how proud are you of being an ex Boliermaker? I’m very proud of those guys. I love the way they dedicated themselves since last season’s first round exit. Zach returning to accomplish something special for our university and for his group of guys, shows his character. They are a special group!!
Head coach Matt Painter has been there since 2005. I can imagine he won´t hang it up until he gets that title?
I’m not sure if a title is Coach’s determining factor. I know for sure it’s an accomplishment that he wants to achieve, but I don’t think he’s ever going to “overstay” his coaching position just to win a title.
Matt Painter is such a special coach that has reached the NCAA tournament 15 times and won 5 conference titles. How special of a coach is he?
He’s very special. I think what sets him apart from most other coaches is the fact that he too was a player, a point guard at that, on championship teams. And with All-Americans like Big Dog. So he understands from a player’s perspective and he’s firm on the natural development of guys.
You played for Matt Painter when he arrived in 2005. How has he developed as a coach?
He’s developed in the sense of more younger players and even other coaches are realizing his method to success and that’s development and commitment. Coach isn’t and has never really been interested in the “1-and-dones”. I think he’s attracting and will continue to attract the best local talent.
How special is a guy like Braden Smith? He has 2 more years to go. He’s the best PG in the country in my opinion, and of course I’m biased lol. But I do think he’s easily a top 5 PG this PAST YEAR, so I definitely think he will be at least top 3 if not the #1 best PG in the country. I think he’s going to be able to display more of his scoring and offensive abilities with Zach gone. He still has TKR that is also going to develop tremendously without the presence of Zach.
Where will the journey of the Boilmakers go in the next years. They lose Edy, Jones and Gillis to graduation.
I think they will still be at the top of the Big Ten conference. They still have players like the 7 footer, TKR, Caleb Furst, and the youngsters Colvin and Heid returning with Braden and Fletcher. Plus Paint will have a good class of guys coming in to continue to feed the system of development!
With the regular season winding down in the Pro A, there was a battle going on between position 2-6 as only 1 game separated those teams. For the Fraport Skyliners, you can´t win them all at home in crunch-time as a few months ago they beat Koblenz in the last seconds with a game winner and last weekend fell apart in crunch-time getting plastered by 3 straight three´s from Jena. Their next opponent the Dresden Titans were focused and hungry because they were fighting for that last playoff spot. They had been playing inspired basketball lately having won 7 of their last 8 games. The Fraport Skyliners had won 5 of their last 7 games, but you still seemed to have this feeling that they weren´t consistent enough going into the playoffs. Frankfurt had to be wide awake against a high scoring machine and had to be ready to give their A game on the defensive end. On a very mild early spring day, the Fraport Skyliners showed once again why they are a potent home team in crunch-time as they stuck together as a team and got a key Booker Coplin (191-G-1997, college: Augsburg, agency: BIG) basket late to seal the win and 34th of the season and regain second place again in the standings. “We moved the ball well and shot the ball well today. I don´t think we defended as well today. We usually can lock up teams better. We let them move the ball too much and get shots. We gave a good team effort and got the needed stops when we needed to”, stressed Fraport Skyliner guard Booker Coplin. The Dresden Titans needed a win badly, but it was simply one of those days where shots didn´t fall the way they usually do. They had made some massive shots during the game, but at the end met Frankfurt´s defense at their best. “I felt we played well and fought the whole game. Frankfurt is a really good team. They had long arms and played in the gaps. I felt we had good looks. It was just one of those days. Sometimes you shoot 50% and other days 30%”, stressed Dresden Titan guard Grant Teichmann.
Booker Coplin from outside
3,480 fans came to witness the battle and were lucky to see 2023 World champion German head coach Gordon Herbert and ex Skyliner legend Pascal Roller watch the game. The Dresden Titans had a hot start taking the rapid 9-4 lead as they got their 3 point ball flying as Canadian Tanner Graham and Daniel Kirchner connected. Frankfurt got hoops inside by 2018 NBBL champion Lorenz Brenneke and Minnesota native Booker Coplin. But Frankfurt reacted well and started their own run of 10-2 to take the 14-11 lead. Frankfurt also showed that at 36%, they can connect from outside just as well as the leagues best team Dresden as Coplin and ex Carleton great Aiden Warnholtz scored. The game was played at a fast pace and Frankfurt kept the slim lead as their bench stepped up as ex Indiana State (NCAA) guard Cameron Henry scored inside and ex South Alabama (NCAA) center Ife Ajayi scored on transition getting the pretty shovel pass from Florida native Kevin McClain as Frankfurt led 19-15. “Kevin is a great playmaker and does it all. It is fun to play with him and he brings everybody´s game up. He needs to keep his confidence up. When his playing well, he is really dangerous”, stated Booker Coplin. After a Grant Teichmann basket, Frankfurt kept up the pressure getting a three pointer from McClain and lay in from Henry for the slim 24-21 advantage after 10 minutes. “Playing that fast tempo was good for us. It may not look comfortable for us, but it will help us in the playoffs”, commented Booker Coplin. The Fraport Skyliners shot 71% from the field and 100% from outside and had 11 rebounds and 4 turnovers while the Dresden Titans shot 35% from the field and 23% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 1 turnover.
Tanner Graham at the FT line
In the second quarter the Fraport Skyliners continued to control the game, but couldn´t totally shake the Dresden Titans having only the 7 point lead at the break. The Fraport Skyliners began with a bang going on a 7-0 run as their bench continued to shine as Ife Ajayi continued to be efficient and executed scoring 5 points and the Swiss army knife Cameron Henry remained aggressive scoring with a lay in for the 32-21 lead. High pressure and good 1-1 defense helped Frankfurt´s offense go on the run. High energy guards Koen Sapwell who hails from Australia and ex Belmont (NCAA) guard Grayson Murphy made back to back baskets to trail Frankfurt only 32-25. After Henry free throws, Dresden unleashed another 4-0 run as Sapwell made a turn around shot and Tanner Graham who once had 10 steals in a college game in Canada made a lay in, but Frankfurt still led 36-29. The Dresden problem on this night was that they didn´t play defense with a high intensity as Frankfurt could always keep their lead as Warnholtz made a lay in for the 38-29 advantage. Dresden kept fighting and as usual were guided by their three ball at moments as they cruised on a 8-3 run late as Kirchner and Arne Wendler who played 91 Pro B games scored as Frankfurt led only 42-39. But Dresden just couldn´t get over the hump as Frankfurt usually had an answer. Canadian David Muenkat got hot scoring Frankfurt´s last 5 points of the first half with a three pointer and buzzer beater lay in as Frankfurt led 47-40. “We have so much talent and depth that anyone can step up. It really helps us when our second unit plays well and can stretch the lead. This helps wear down teams. We will need it in the playoffs”, expressed Booker Coplin. The Fraport Skyliners shot 60% from the field and 56% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Dresden Titans shot 43% from the field and 25% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 5 turnovers.
Jordan Samare
In the third quarter both teams buckled down more on defense, but the Fraport Skyliners still had their nose ahead leading by 4 points. Frankfurt got a massive dunk right on the first possession from David Meunkat on the coast to coast sprint. “He is pretty athletic. He is always flying around. He needs that highlight reel. He deserves it”, stated Booker Coplin. The Dresden Titans didn´t let that authority dunk get to them as Tennessee native Grayson Murphy was a one man wrecking crew scoring 8 unanswered points including 2 wild step back three´s and a lay in as they trailed only 49-46. Murphy showed that he couldn´t only score buckets, but was the real work horse of the team. He produced a triple double in the NCAA against Tennessee Martin and this season was on a quadruple pace against Nurnberg. It wasn´t any different this game as his stat line after 40 minutes was 11/10/8/5. The run continued as Wendler made a lay in and Murphy supplied the pretty no look pass as Dresden stole the lead back again leading 50-49. Ex Artland Dragon Jacob Knauf answered with a trey, but Frankfurt´s lead was short lived as Tanner Graham responded from the parking lot for the 53-52 Dresden advantage. Sapwell took that Graham energy and made another off balance shot as Frankfurt trailed 55-52. However once again it was the Frankfurt bench that stepped up as Henry and Ajayi once again made big shots. Henry scored on the drive and Ajayi who compares his game to Zion Willamson made a tip in and three pointer at the buzzer for the 59-55 Frankfurt lead. “The Pro A has many great hoopers. If you let a guy like Murphy get going then he can be dangerous. When he gets confident then he can look like an allstar. We have to do a better job stopping them as a team”, said Booker Coplin. “Grayson willed us at the start to keep us in the game and soon after we found our rhythm. We played good basketball after that”, commented Grant Teichmann. The Fraport Skyliners shot 48% from the field and 39% from the parking lot and had 34 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Dresden Titans shot 41% from the field and 30% from the parking lot and had 24 rebounds and 9 turnovers.
Grayson Murphy from downtown
In the fourth quarter it looked like the Fraport Skyliners would run away with the game early, but the Dresden Titans had enough gas left and made a comeback and let the game go down to the wire. Sapwell and Warnholtz began the last quarter with back to back three´s. Sapwell then added a lay in and Dresden trailed only 62-60. However the Fraport Skyliners then showed just how dangerous their offense can be as they smoked Dresden for 9 straight points with 2 three´s by Knauf and one by Warnholtz as Frankfurt led 71-60. “We began well. When we find our rhythm, we can be very dangerous and it´s tough to defend. When Warnholtz gets going, he can hurt anybody”, warned Booker Coplin. However Dresden was never out as they just chipped away at the Frankfurt lead. A Georg Voigtmann tip in and 3 Daniel Kirchner free throws began the comeback as Dresden trailed 73-65. Tanner Graham was instrumental in the comeback as he hit 2 key three´s and free throws. A Murphy free throw dead locked the game at 75-75. Frankfurt´s offense wasn´t particular clever in this phase as they made hasty decisions and didn´t take good shots allowing a team that always hung around to be there at the last minute. However Frankfurt just made the big play, shot and free throws to secure the win. Knauf made a huge block which led to the Coplin go ahead finger tip roll in and 77-75 lead. “My three pointer has been off lately, but it´s nice being able to get to the hoop with the drive. I had a good matchup and when I can get both feet into the paint, good things happen”, warned Booker Coplin. “In crunch time anything can happen. The difference was that Frankfurt hit tough shots and we didn´t. Graham had a good look and just didn´t fall”, said Grant Teichmann. Henry iced the win with free throws. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Cameron Henry with 15 points. Ife Ajayi added 14 points and Aiden Warnholtz and David Muenkat had 11 points a piece while the Dresden Titans were led by Tanner Graham with 15 points while Koen Sapwell had 13 points. The Fraport Skyliners shot 43% from the field and 37% from outside and had 45 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Dresden Titans shot 37% from the field and 28% from outside and had 40 rebounds and 11 turnovers.
It was the best time of the year in the Pro B as it was finally time for the playoffs and the chance for 16 teams to battle for the crown and the possible climb up a league to the Pro A. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors Juniors secured the home court advantage in the playoffs thanks to a surprising loss of Erfurt to struggling team wiha Panthers, otherwise they wouldn´t have been in this position as Coburg had won their game and even jumped up the standings to position 3. However Frankfurt would have no cake walk as they met SC Rist Wedel. This was a battle of the farm teams of easyCredit BBL team Hamburg and Pro A team Fraport Skyliners. Wedel came into the playoffs playing great basketball having won 6 of their last 7 games while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had won 3 of their last 4 games and totally destroyed Orange Academy on the last game day. On a particular very warm early spring day the Fraport Skyliners Juniors controlled the game for the most part, but got a little sloppy at the end allowing SC Rist Wedel to hurl a late come back run, but they ran out of gas as Frankfurt prevailed 88-82. “We did a good job in the game beating their press. We had good control of the game for 35 of the 40 minutes. We got a little wild at the end, but overal it was a good team performance. We prepared ourselves well for them”, stressed Fraport Skyliner junior Dusan Nikolic. SC Rist Wedel did a great job never losing focus and just fought for the entire 40 minutes, but in the end just couldn´t get over the hump. “We started slow. We allowed their offense to get comfortable. We didn´t apply enough defensive pressure for 40 minutes. They were a good shooting team. We have to start with more fire”, stressed SC Rist Wedel forward Camron Reese.
Trevian Bell from outside
Both teams found their offensive rhythm quickly as the guests got 5 rapid points from Swedish forward Daniel Johansson and a trey from German Linus Hoffmann to lead 12-6 while the Fraport Skyliners found to their three ball early as Germans Jordan Samare and Nils Leonhardt connected. Samare even entertained the fans with a bank shot. “I don´t know if he practices those, but he definitely called it”, smiled Dusan Nikolic. SC Rist Wedel did a fine job displaying team ball while Frankfurt didn´t have the needed defensive intensity early. Frankfurt just continued to heave three´s and found themselves on a 12-3 run to retake the 18-15 advantage. In the three ball of terror, Frankfurt was aided by Illinois native Trevian Bell (201-G/F, college: Lewis) who scored twice while Felix Hecker and Alvin Oniya also connected. After a runner by California native Cameron Reese who played at Akron (NCAA), the raining of three´s continued for Frankfurt as 2017 JBBL finalist Calvin Schaum scored as did Bell again who launched a deep in your face three. “That was a crazy shot, but we know he can make those. I have a lot of respect for him. He is a great player”, added Dusan Nikolic. After 10 minutes the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had the slim 24-21 lead. Frankfurt shot 47% from the field and 57% from outside including a hard to believe 0% from the two point range and had 7 rebounds and 3 turnovers while SC Rist Wedel shot 57% from the field and 50% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 3 turnovers. “We practiced shooting a lot of three´s the last week. They were all confidence shots. We had that mind set that every three would go in”, stressed Dusan Nikolic.
Camron Reese at the FT line
In the second quarter there were three runs as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had 2 and the guests one as they trailed by 10 points at the break. Frankfurt played top defense in the first 4 minutes halting the first 7 possessions in a row by SC Rist Wedel. Frankfurt upped their intensity and made great hustle plays stifling Wedel. The guests defended ok as Frankfurt couldn´t get more than 6 points in this phase as ex 2017 NBBL MVP Felix Hecker had a trey and Onyia added a lay in for the 30-23 advantage. However that basketball is a game of runs is no secret as the guests punched Frankfurt back with a timely 7-0 run as Johansson added 5 points again as he was always in attack mode and Reese who was a beast on the glass made a tap in to trail 32-30. But the tide changed again as Frankfurt showed their whole offensive spectrum closing out the second quarter with a lethal 11-3 run to lead 43-33 at half-time. In the run Frankfurt got 5 points from Trevian Bell who continued to lead Frankfurt´s offense with his dangerous play while Calvin Schaum and Felix Hecker also added buckets in the Frankfurt attack. Frankfurt supplied aggressive defensive pressure again forcing Camron Reese to consecutive turnovers and did a fine job getting in passing lanes. “We defended a lot better allowing only 12 points. We lifted our physicality and played hard on every possession on defense. In offense we continued to execute well and were able to build our lead”, stated Dusan Nikolic. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 50% from the field and 53% from the three point line and had 13 rebounds and 8 turnovers while SC Rist Wedel shot 40% from the field and 29% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 10 turnovers.
Calvin Schaum at the FT line
In the third quarter the Fraport Skyliners Juniors did a great job managing their lead and never allowed SC Rist Wedel to get closer than 6 points. Frankfurt got early production from Nolan Adekunle who supplied 2 baskets while Wedel got super support from young German Al-Fayed Alegbe from the bench as he scored 5 points, but they couldn´t get any closer trailing 50-42. Bell continued to be aggressive and scored while SC Rist Wedel received back to back baskets from ex Hanau guard Niklas Krause as Frankfurt led 54-48, but couldn´t totally shake the guests. How often had the Fraport Skyliners Juniors demonstrated this season that they have so many scoring options including the young guns like Dusan Nikolic who was extra motivated in the second half scoring 6 points in 2 minutes giving his team the 63-50 lead. “I was aggressive and just tried to use my chance as best as possible. I just always try to play my game and make the most out of it. I was frustrated after having 0 points in the first half, so I came out in the second half with the attitude that I wanted to show everyone I could help”, added Dusan Nikolic. Frankfurt closed out the third quarter strong getting some more production from their talented youth as Ivan Crnjac hit a trey and Oniya and Adekunle hit free throws to lead 69-55. “We can all score on this team. We have enough weapons and are very versatile. We continued to be physical on defense. We didn´t rebound as well. Reese was tough to control on the boards”, said Dusan Nikolic. “They have a lot of offensive weapons. Plus they had good size. We are very young and they were difficult to defend”, said Camron Reese. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 55% from the field and 50% from the parking lot and had 16 rebounds and 10 turnovers while SC Rist Wedel shot 45% from the field and 33% from the parking lot and had 28 rebounds and 17 turnovers.
Daniel Johansson with the lay in
In the fourth quarter the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had good control of the game leading by as much as 17 points, but then got sloppy in the last minutes allowing Wedel to cut the lead down to 6 points to make it interesting again. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors offense continued to execute well getting some more vital baskets from their 2 top NBBL (U-19) players Ivan Crnjac who scored on transition while Dusan Nikolic made a dunk on transition. The Frankfurt aggressive defense and super on ball pressure made Wedel uneasy all night long and forced them too many turnovers. Jordan Samare added a second three point bank shot for the very comfortable 78-61 advantage. It looked like Frankfurt would easily glide into the sunset with the win as they continued to execute in fine fashion as Nolan Adekunle scored 2 tough off balance shots and Jordan Samare added a massive 2 handed jam for the 85-73 advantage. “That was a great dunk. I think that could have been his best dunk this season”, stressed Dusan Nikolic. The minutes were winding down, but SC Rist Wedel still had some gas left as they somehow kept clawing back and went on a 11-2 run to trail Frankfurt 87-82 with a minute to go. In the run the guests got superb help from Alegbe who added 5 points as well as 3 points from 17 year old German Darren Egbe as well as a lay in from Krause. However time was running out and Frankfurt closed out the game with 2 clutch steals by Hecker and Bell. “We were nervous at the end. We thought the game was over. We made dumb turnovers to let them come back. We made 2 big steals at the end to seal the win”, stressed Dusan Nikolic. “We never gave up. We had some games this season go down to the wire. We never roll over. We need to find a way to finish a game well”, stressed Camron Reese. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Trevian bell with 18 points. Nolan Adekunle added 16 points and Jordan Samare 12 points while SC Rist Wedel was led by Linus Hoffmann with 17 points while Camron Reese also had 17 points and 13 boards. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 55% from the field and 44% from outside and had 27 rebounds and 18 turnovers while SC Rist Wedel shot 45% from the field and 29% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 21 turnovers.
Jordan Shepherd (193-G-1997, college: California) is a 190cm guard from Ashville, North Carolina playing his second professional season and first with AEL Limassol (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) averaging 18,6ppg, 5,9rpg, 4,7apg and 1,4spg. Last season as a rookie he played with KFUM Uppsala (Sweden-Superettan) averaging 18.7ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 86.1%. he began his basketball career at Hope Christian Academy. He began his NCAA career at the University of Oklahoma playing 2 seasons and 59 NCAA games. He then played 2 seasons at the The University of North Carolina at Charlotte (NCAA) averaging 14.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 4.1apg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 71.4% and in his second season averaged 11.9ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 74.1%. He closed out his NCAA career with the University of California (NCAA) averaging 15.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 42.4%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 79.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Jordan for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season for AEL Limassol (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League). What kind of experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the opportunity? It’s been a great experience so far! I’ve enjoyed being here, living here, and playing basketball. I’ve enjoyed the basketball experience the most, just being able to be myself out on the floor and contribute to the team.
The club has won 25 titles but the last in 2009. How big do you feel is the desire to win again within the organization? There is definitely a big desire and expectation to win within the organization. You feel it everyday when you come into practice and when we play in games. The fans are excited and they want wins just as bad as we do.
Last season as a rookie you were freezing in Sweden and this season in warm Cyprus. What do you like most about the culture? I like how inclusive everyone here is. People are talkative and nice and go out their way to say hi. I love the food here as well.
You have upped your stats one more time from Sweden to Cyprus. How would you compare the leagues in style and ability? The first division Cyprus has been on the rise for years. Would you see it as a higher league than Sweden?
I would say the leagues style and ability are similar is some ways but different as well. In the SBL it seemed like teams wanted to play fast a lot of the time and it led to a lot of high scoring games. This league likes to slow down a little more and play with more physicality which forces everyone to have to execute game plans a little bit better. I’ve heard that this league is a higher level so I’ll just stick to what I’ve heard about it for now.
Cyprus is a league where many Americans have prospered and used as a stepping stone for higher leagues. How aware are you that this league could change your basketball life?
I am very aware of what this league can do for my career which is why I’m here but at the same time, I’ve just tried to focus on the present moment and just enjoy it and get better everyday.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? The NBA comparison that I have gotten the most in my life is CJ McCollum and Brandon Roy. I agree that we have similar games and I’ve watched and picked up so much from their games to add to mine. I’m humbled to have been compared to players of that caliber.
You can fill the stat sheet well. How big is versatility in your game? I have always been a versatile player. I have had to play so many different roles in my basketball career that I have learned many different skills. What you see from me is usually the product of what the team needs me to be and what the coach has asked me to be.
Your three pointer continues to be a work in progress. What steps are you taking to become closer to a 40% shooter?
I am shooting 41% from 3 right now and I am looking to keep that up. For me it’s all about getting the proper amount of reps everyday and also taking the right type of 3’s during the game. In my past I have had to take some tough shots which resulted in a lower percentage but I have now refined my game a little bit so now I can take better shots from behind the arc
What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?
I think I am a good defender but there is always room for improvement. My versatility, IQ, and athleticism helps me a lot on that side of the ball.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to climb the basketball ladder? I’ve just been working on staying healthy and sharpening the tools that I already have. The best ability is availability so taking care of myself has been the biggest thing. I put in the work on my game so if I stay healthy, everything else will fall into place
You played your rookie season with KFUM Uppsala (Sweden-Superettan) averaging 18.7pp), 4.3rpg, 4.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 86.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? It hit me immediately honestly. As soon as I got off the plane everything looked different. I went to stay in a hotel for a little bit and even the format of the hotel was different so it was definitely a wake-up call then.
You began your NCAA career at Oklahoma and played 2 seasons there and averaging 4,3 and 2,3ppg. What positives could you get playing for Lon Kruger? Was it a tough situation with the minutes?
Lon Kruger is a hall of fame coach. He was an offensive master-mind and he was a great player as well. There was a lot to learn from him such as how stoic he was. He never really got out of character no matter what was happening, good or bad. My 2 years there were tough but I learned a lot from it.
In your second season you were teammates with a young Trae Young. What memories do you have of him and did you know he would become such a great NBA player?
A lot of the memories that I have with Trae are us being on the court together in the beginning and middle of the season. We were able to reach being #4 in the country together and we had some really big wins while closing games together on the floor. After a couple games, it was clear that he was an NBA level talent. As the season went on, his stock started to sky rocket and it was even more clear that he would be not only an NBA player but a really good one at that.
You didn´t have many games to shine but did scoring 18 points in a win over Memphis. What do you remember from that game and was that one of your fondest moments at Oklahoma? That game was actually my first game starting. I remember being really nervous about it but once the game started, I remembered being very comfortable and feeling like I belonged in that role and space. It was definitely one of my fondest memories being at OU.
You then played 2 seasons at The University of North Carolina at Charlotte (NCAA) averaging 14.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 4.1apg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 71.4% and 11.9ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 74.1%. How did your game grow in these 2 games and how did head coach Ron Sanchez help your game most? Being at Charlotte helped me gain some confidence and be in a role where I could showcase my abilities a little more. The biggest thing that coach Sanchez helped in my game was my defense. I learned principles about defense that I still use to this day.
How tough were the 2 seasons due to Covid? You performed very well and had many great games like scoring 27 points against Valpo. What was your fondest memory there?
Covid messed up a lot, not only for me but for everyone in the world. I thought our first season together we had a good chance of making the NCAA tournament by winning our conference championship. To not be able to play in our tournament because of Covid wasn’t a great feeling. We lost a lot of our team for the upcoming year due to transfers and seniors graduating. The next year was even more difficult because the team was unfamiliar, games were always getting cancelled and we couldn’t have fans. My fondest memory of playing there was when we beat Wake Forest at home.
You played one more season at the University of California (NCAA) averaging 15.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 42.4%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 79.0%. You had many great games there and showed you could play in the PAC 12. You had 33 points against Orgenon and 28 points against Stanford allowing only 39 points. How crazy was that Stanford game?
The Stanford game was wild. It was senior night for us and Stanford is our rival. There was so many people at the game including my family, who came all the way from North Carolina to be there, Jason Kidd, Jerome Randall, and so many other notable people. It was an incredible and fun game to be a part of.
How did head coach Mark Fox give you the last push to groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Coach Fox did so much for me. He coached me hard and really believed in me. He allowed me to be myself which was the first time I had experienced that in my college career. It changed the perspective of me as a player in the eyes of my peers and scouts. Coach Fox along with his staff helped me tremendously and I am forever grateful for them.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Joel Brown?
Me lol. JB is my brother and probably the best defender I have ever played with but 1 on 1 is my thing, it’s my type of game. I don’t really lose in that setting.
Who is the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Frank Mason. My freshman year, he was national player of the year in college.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Kameron Mcgusty, Cooper Robb, Regin Larson, Joel Brown, Jalen Celestine, Jared Hyder. (I know it’s 6 but I couldn’t leave any of these guys out)
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? MJ, Kobe, Bron, and Steph Curry
Who is your GOAT and why? Kobe is my GOAT. I grew up the biggest Kobe fan there was. The way he played both sides of the ball and the things I got to witness him do in terms of scoring, it made him the goat in my eyes.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Should they have left it alone? I did not see the sequel to Coming to America. I am not a fan of sequel especially for classics lol.
It´s that time of year again whe it´s lighter outside, warmer and nature is getting ready for spring. In April the German Regionalliga for the most part is history again and American players are already in attack mode for new contracts. It isn´t any different with Jeremy Ingram (183-G-1991, college: AAMU). The walking bucket who belongs to the top Regionalliga players in Germany for years just finished another season this time with SG Braunschweig and is on summer vacation. But he is different than most Americans in that he doesn´t hurray back to the crib, but actually likes to spent a good amount of time in Europe before heading back home for some fine home cooked food and time with the homies. However this time he will mix pleasure with work in that he wants to already secure a deal for next season and where he will play. “I will be traveling all over Germany this summer visiting family and friends and even visiting different teams to prepare for next season. I´m also thinking of playing a few streetball tournaments. But my main objective is to go visit my best friend in Atlanta who just recently opened up a new tattoo shop there called “Trill Studios”, stated Jeremy Ingram.
Jeremy Ingram who recognizes Quran Dublin from Bargteheide this past season as not only the toughest player he faced during the season, but in all his Regionalliga years and was born in 1991 and just finished his 8th professional season isn´t getting any younger is a player that has always logged major minutes in the Regionalliga. After a long season the body usually feels like it just survived a major physical battle, but this time around it wasn´t so bad. “I actually feel 100% healthy and actually feel like I could still play more games. I´m usually so tired after the season that I don’t want to play basketball for weeks. But this year is different, guess it´s because I didn’t play nearly as much as previous seasons”, stressed Jeremy Ingram. This past season with SG Braunschweig wasn´t a great one as the team finished 5-16 and one he isn´t proud of. It was difficult to win games when the defense allowed 90 points per game and offensively produced only 83 points. “This season was probably the worst season and definitely the worst record of not only my professional career but my basketball career. I think there was no real connection on defense where all guys are working together. Defense is all about talking, help-side, and 1 on 1 defense. It´s also about attitude and being willing to play defense and I just think there was none of this on the team”, expressed Jeremy Ingram. The club began with a 6 game losing streak and then caught themselves and won 3 in a row and 4 of 6 games. “When I arrived to the team on game 4 the losing streak was already started. Wouldn’t say that was the fate because we had so many opportunities to turn things around but just couldn’t quite do it for whatever reason. My personal opinion is with a young team when things are going good emotions are good so everything plays good, when things start to go bad, emotions, attitudes and body language are effected which starts to affect the whole team and it´s just hard to overcome that”, commented Jeremy Ingram. Despite the team losing it´s last 7 games, was there anything positive gained from the season. “I don’t think anyone gave up. I just think everyone kind of realized this season was just a total mess and it probably wasn’t going to change. And honestly it showed on the court every night. I think maybe it was a wakeup call season. If you want to be a good team and a good player you have to do a lot of things different starting with how you practice. Because all the bs that was going on in practice showed during the games. I also think players have to learn to accept roles and accept the fact that their role might be just getting rebounds not trying to score 15-20 points or maybe focus on getting 8 assists or defense”, added Jeremy Ingram.
Last season the American who can unleash the mid distance jumper at any place on the court played for the farm team of easyCredit BBL team Basketball Lowen Braunschweig. He was the oldest by a long margin and played with guys 10 years or more years younger than him. Two guys he had immense joy playing with were Gian Aydinoglu who won the NBBL title with Alba Berlin and Romario Holloway who once connected for 41 points in an NBBL game. “It took some adjusting playing with Gian as I assume it took a lot of adjustment for him playing with me also. I think he will be a pretty good player because everyone in this organization is pushing for him so he has all the support he needs to be good. I tell people all the time Romario was my favorite person to play with on the team. It´s always fun when a guard like me can play with a big man like him. Unfortunately injuries kept us from playing more together. He doesn’t complain about shots because he knows what type of scorer I am, he is always coming to set screens and roll to the basket and sometimes I hit him on the roll for an easy dunk or his screen is going to get me free for that midrange. I see him being an important player for a BBL team in a few years”, warned Jeremy Ingram. With Braunschweig he averaged 24/5/1/2 with his scoring being down from past seasons. The whole season was just a struggle for him. “Well from the beginning with the law suit with my 1st team that caused me to miss the first 2 months of the season and then coming to a new young team where I didn’t fit in at all. I say to do what I did in these conditions just shows how good of a player I am. I say that as Humble as possible. But I can honestly say I´m glad it´s over and I´m glad the Braunschweig organization gave me a home for the season, so I´m thankful for that”, stressed Jeremy Ingram. His minutes were 6 less than 2 seasons ago in Mannheim, but only 1 minute less than last season. “It was not my plan or my desires to play less minutes and I was very unhappy about playing significantly less minutes but at the end of the day coaches get to make the decisions so I had to live with those decisions no matter how unhappy I was. But a player like me should be playing 30-35 minutes every game in this league but I guess everyone didn’t see it the same way”, added Jeremy Ingram. A big highlight was that he shot his best from outside in the last 3 seasons at 38%. “More reps was a big part of it. The shooting machine and having access to a gym almost everyday to get up shots was also a big part. But I was more of a catch and shoot or whenever I get the ball type of player on this team. Where as on other teams I was also the playmaker and scorer, but here I had to just focus on shooting because that was pretty much my job”, stated Jeremy Ingram. His assists were down, but he continued to be a real pest on the defensive end. “My assists were down mainly because I was a spot up shooter on this team but also on my other teams I got a lot of assists from the team running the fast breaks with me and back door cuts when I attack the hoop. It was more/less a lot of standing around the 3 point line and pouting when I attacked this season instead of just cutting to the hoop. I think people overlook my defense this season because of how bad we played team defense. But again I´m top 3 in the league in steals again for like the 3rd, 4th straight season”, said Jeremy Ingram.
The off season will last a few months for him who listed Gian Aydinoglu as the team´s most improved player and it will be as usual very interesting where his journey will go. Will a Pro B team or Pro A club finally give him an opportunity? The season is only over since a few weeks, but as usual he is mega optimistic. “I have a few great options so far but again nothing is official until I sign on that dotted line but hopefully everything works out”, commented Jeremy Ingram. There is always the possibility for him to play outside Germany, but he has played his whole career in Germany and feels very comfortable here. “I play basketball in Germany but I´m always traveling outside the country. Besides playing basketball, traveling is another thing I love to do so I´m sure I will be all over this summer”, stated Jeremy Ingram. His age changes every year, but one thing for sure doesn´t change and that is the overwhelming weight of the chip on his shoulder. “The chip will always be there because no matter how many times I have a good season higher league coaches and Gm´s still feel like its ok to pass on a player like me so trust me I will keep my feet in their necks until I hang up my jersey”, warned Jeremy Ingram. The chip answer is no surprise as his motivation and drive to reach a higher level will never end. He will continue to grind and keep his feet on Gm´s necks, because he deserves to be in a higher league. He would take the Pro B by storm. Somebody finally give him a chance!
Shawn Scott (185-G-1996, college: SW Christian) is a 28 year old 185cm guard playing his third professional season and first with BG Hagen. Last season 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 teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.
Congrats Shawn on the game 1 win over Hamm 102-89. How good does it feel to have won your first playoff game this season? Thank you. It feels great to have gotten that first playoff win this season out of the way but I went to the playoffs with the Berlin Braves last season and won it all there so I’m familiar with what it takes to win in this time of the season.
How tough was it coming back after 3 weeks off? How did you prepare physically for this game? Really hard. Every day I was so anxious to play and couldn’t wait to get back on the court in my uniform. I stayed in the fitness gym like normal over the weeks but we also had a much needed break from practice that I think our bodies needed to be ready for the playoffs.
It was a real shoot out. Talk about the 40 minutes. What is your summary for 40 minutes how you played as a team?
In the first quarter I felt everything went our way offensively to hitting big three point shots to Jaro getting like 4 dunks in a row. But defensively I think we were not our best by far and Hamm was too comfortable the whole game. They scored way too many points for our liking in the first half and we picked it up and turned up our aggressive defense in the second half. All in all we stuck together and did everything we could to get the win and that’s how it’s going to be all playoffs.
Even if you allowed 89 points, how key was the defensive pressure and 17 Hamm turnovers for the overall success?
The most important. We knew it was all defense that was going to win this game and even though we started out not the best, we picked it up later and were able to make them uncomfortable.
BG Hagen had no answer for Gilbert Gyamfi who scored 41 points This guy seemed to have the 3 level scoring down. What made it most difficult to stop him?
It seemed like every shot he put up went in and this is just how it is when it comes playoff time. Guys like that step it up even more and it becomes harder to stop them. But we got stops when we needed to. Next game he can’t have a game like this and we have to be more disciplined when guarding him.
You had another solid game with 32 points. How revved up were you for this game? I was super energetic the whole day waiting to play but it didn’t allow me to get much sleep. But I feel I didn’t play to the very best of my ability and I’m going to make sure I’m at that point next game to get the game two win.
What will be key for winning game 2 against Hamm? Will you expect another high scoring game? I expect us to have a high scoring game but we cannot allow Hamm who scores 70 points a game on average to score 89 points against us again. The key is defense and will be the key for the next games to come.
Denzel Livingston (193-F/G-1993, college: UIW) is a 30 year old 193cm guard from Houston, Texas that played his 8th professional season and first in Germany with the Ademax Ballers Ibbenburen averaging 18,8ppg, 7,4rpg, 2,0apg and 3,4spg. He has sampled much experience overseas having played in countries like Israel, Georgia, Finland and Uruguay. He also had a stint in the G-League. He began his basketball career at Waltrip high school and then played at the University of Incarnate Word from 2011-2015. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Denzel for talking to germanhoops.com. It isn´t every day that a guy who was on an NBA roster joins a third division club. How did this incredible signing come about?
It was a late signing for me since I passed on earlier teams who wanted me to come play for them. I was recently inducted to the Hall of Fame at my college in September so I wasn’t going to miss that for anything. As far as me signing to Ibbenburen, the manager was very persuasive and it’s just a step for me to be in the Germany market. I’m sure it’ll be higher level teams that will want me soon so I’m not rushing. Just enjoying the moment.
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Germany recently won the World Cup?
I don’t know too much about Germany except for Dirk Nowitzki and the German beer haha. I did watch the World Cup so I know you guys was very excited about that win.
Your a walking bucket. Do you feel like you need to score 30 points a night to finally help this ambitious club get wins again? If I have to I will. I will first try to get my team involved first but if that’s not working, I will only see the rim
Germany is your 5th country overseas. What do you enjoy most about the globetrotter life? I love it. Seeing different countries and their cultures is amazing. I always feel like I’m in a movie.
You recently played at Lagomar Canelones Montevideo (Uruguay-Metropolitan) averaging 17.0ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.4apg, 2.8spg, FGP: 30.6%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 80.6%. You had a short stay playing only 5 games. What memories could you take from this expereince? How did you expereince South American basketball? For my first time in South America, it was a big difference from Europe play. They get away with a lot more physicality over there. I didn’t really get to explore much so I can’t really tell you how the sites were.
Last season you played with Lapuan Kobrat (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 15.1ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 81.2%. Finland is a popular country to play in for Americans. I would have thought after your season there, you could make the jump possibly to a second or first division team in Germany. Is your stock for some reason still off the radar in Europe? I ask myself the same question and wonder the same thing every time. I really don’t know. My average are near the same every year and I know my potential is high level. Teams either think about signing me or they will give me an offer with low pay. I know my worth.
Last season you played with BC Cactus Tbilisi (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 17.8ppg, 8.5rpg, 2.9apg, 1.8spg, Blocks-5 (1.2bpg), FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 75.7%. What kind of an experience is having to learn those long Georgian names? Did you just think of nicknames for your teammates? Georgia was a nice experience. Most of my teammates had the same name so it was pretty easy for me to remember
After coming off your first season in Georgia, you didn´t play in the 20-21 season. How much did Covid play a role in that? How tough was that season for you? How did you remain active basketball wise?
It gave me a reason to take a year off and spend more time with family and my daughter. It wasn’t tough at first but as the time went by, I knew that I wanted to get back to playing. I stayed active by playing in open gyms and doing my daily morning runs.
You played the 2019-2020 season with BC Rustavi 1991 (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 13.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 3.3apg, Steals-2 (2.6spg), FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 77.5%. You won your first chip with the cup. What memroies do you have of that truimph?
That season we was definitely going to make it to the championship or at least the final four. It just sucks that it ended because of Covid.
You played your second pro season with Elitzur Kiryat Ata (Israel-National League) averaging 14.4ppg, 6.2rpg, 2.7apg, Steals-5 (2.1spg), 1.0bpg, FGP: 41.5%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 81.8%. What did you learn about yourself as a player having a solid season here taking a step back after having a soso season in the first israel league the season before? It was mentally tough for me because I knew I was supposed to be higher but I was still grateful to be playing in Israel.
You played your second pro season with Ironi Nahariya (Israel-Winner League) averaging 6.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 72.9%. You played 3 timers against top Euroleague team Maccabi Tel Aviv battling ex NBA champion and Lebron James teammate Norris Cole. What do you remember from these games?
Playing in Nahariya really opened my eyes. I started off the season great, averaging about 15ppg but everything changed when the coach started playing his older guys more than me. It was always fun playing Maccabi because of the fan base and the urge to try to beat them was exciting
You played your first season overseas with Hapoel Kfar Saba/Kohav Yair (Israel-National League) averaging 21.1ppg), Reb-5 (10.7rpg), 3.2apg, Steals-5 (2.0spg), Blocks-2 (2.1bpg), FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 80.6%. What do you remmeber being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew you were far away from home?
My mindset was to go overseas and get straight buckets. I did that and won MVP of the league that season. I made sure I stayed in contact with family back home so that made my first time overseas easy.
In your rookie season you played NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas (Houston Rockets) playing 3 games averaging 2.0ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.3apg. What memeories do you have of playing NBA Summer League? What people do you remember meeting in Vegas and seeing what NBA legends walking around?
For some reason the coach wasn’t letting me play because he already knew that I was going to play preseason and be sent to the D-league team. That’s why my time was limited. The person who stood out was Lebron James. I didn’t physically meet him face to face but I saw him on the sideline watching his team play
You were in training camp with the Houston Rockets in 2015. What kind of expereince was that sharing the floor with James Harden and Dwight Howard? Was it an awe effect at first? James Harden and Dwight Howard were real cool. It was an awe effect when I saw James walking into the locker room. I couldn’t show it because I was his teammate at the time but it was real cool.
You played yourr ookie season with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers (D-League) averaging 9.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 81.3%. What do you remmeber being your best example in that season where you witnessed the NBA being a business first Yes it’s very political over there. That’s all I can say about that.
You got good minutes, but how tough is it in general for a guy to average 9 to 18 points. Do you feel like you could have landed a NBA call up with 10 minutes more? At the time, the Rockets were very stacked with players and were championship contenders so that would’ve been hard. But if it was the Houston Rockets team from these past years, most definitely yes.
You played at The University of Incarnate Word (NCAA) from 2011-2015. Your game really took off in your last 2 years as you averaged 20,0ppg. How did your game grow in your last 2 seasons?
My junior year, I knew I had to be the man because our main scorer had graduated. I put a lot of time in the gym and it turned out very well.
You had so many great games there but how tough was losing the 103-101 game to Northwestern State despite 37 points from you?
A game we were supposed to win. Still hurt til this day! A lot of questionable calls but I know Northwestern State players still remember my name.
How did head coach Ken Burmeister groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?
He allowed me to play my game. Besides basketball, He made sure I was gentlemen outside of the court and told me to make sure I take care of my responsibilities always.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Shawn Johnson? Me of course but this is my guy.
Who was the toughest player you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? I’ll probably say Thomas Walkup. He isn’t in the NBA but he’s in Euroleague. I still gave him 30pts though.
Please name your 5 berst teammates of all-time? Kin Bolton Montrezl Harrel Jimmy Hall Cat Barber Pat Beverly.
y Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? Shaq Michael Jordan Tracy McGrady Reggie Miller Lebron James
Who is your GOAT and why? My goat is Reggie Miller. That’s my idol. He made me love the game of basketball. I grew up watching him
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I thought it was ok. It was much needed after all them years of waiting.
German Hoops 