This season the Fraport Skyliners have some players that will dazzle the basketball fans on a nightly basis with their wicked athleticism. The duo of Cameron Henry and David Muenkat have shown time in and time out what it looks like to swat the ball away or a Justin Onyejiaka leaping to the rim like a flying hawk and slamming the ball home with extreme authority on many occasions. But it isn´t just these players that can make big plays. This season the Fraport Skyliners have had the pleasure of having Kevin Mcclain who might be best known for his scoring in bunches talent, but the American also demonstrated that he has the ability to pass the ball well. In the big win over the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven, McClain came into the zone and it seemed like he would finish, but in the last second he made a bounce pass that set up Ife Ajayi perfectly for the massive throwdown. In this instance it wasn´t just one amazing play that wooed the fans, but 2 plays with the pass and dunk. ““McClain found me. He is a great player. That was a small snippet of what is still to come from him. Even if he is known as a scorer, he is totally unselfish. He is an underrated passer”, warned Ife Ajayi“ Of course the American also has his praise for Henry, Muenkat and Ajayi. “It’s fun playing defense with Cam and David because we’re able to get out and run and convert on the offensive end. I played against Ife in France and I think he could be the difference in a 5 game series against a physical team like Trier because he’s versatile which can be hard for their bigs to guard the perimeter and inside against him”, stated Kevin McClain (190-G-1996, college: Belmont). A big strength in Mcclain´s game is his scoring, but he can do so many other vital things on the court for his team to be successful. It also has helped him a lot that he did track and field in high school which has helped his game in many ways. His high jumping skills that he perfected in high school has helped him be able to defend bigger players. It is no secret that being versatile and the more he can do will help him be able to help him progress down the road with his career.

Kevin McClain who lists Ja Morant as one of the most talented players in the world and his toughest cover in the NCAA was born on October 21st, 1996 in Jaspar, Florida and hails from a big family as he has 7 siblings. He attended Hamilton County High School and was high jump state champion. He averaged 19.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 3.4apg, 3.3spg; and was the first student-athlete in Hamilton County High School history to receive an NCAA Division I scholarship. He then went to Belmont University (NCAA) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 126 NCAA games. His game really picked up in his last 2 seasons as he averaged 12.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 71.6% and in his senior year averaged 16.8ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 70.2%. He was on some talented teams as he reached 2 OVC finals, the 2017 NIT Sweet 16 and capped off his career really the NCAA tournament as a senior. At March Madness, he lost a brutal 79-77 game to Maryland despite scoring 19 points. “Losing the game was very tough, and for a while you’re mad about it but I don’t sulk to much on losses or failures, but it was for sure a fun game and I just remember how many people who were not our actual fan base there to watch us it was crazy”, said Kevin McClain. He shared the court with 2 current PRO A Players Grayson Murphy and Nick Muszynski who were instrumental with him for the team success. “I have great memories sharing the court with them and just locker room talk and funny moments as a team”, said Kevin McClain. He had many great games at Belmont like hitting SE Missouri State for 31 points and Temple for 29 points, but surprisingly there wasn´t just one game that stuck out most for him. “Some people may say or think that those games were my best, but I think every game and every present moment is what I enjoy the most. I could watch a game where I was a kid and be in aww of that moment”, commented Kevin McClain. He played 65 games in his last 2 seasons and scored in double figures in 53 games. He will also be grateful for the guidance by top NCAA coach Rick Byrd. “I think he helped me understand the game and being able to read defenses, I think he could be one of the best coaches in Europe if he wanted to but he’s left his great mark of coaching at Belmont and that seems just right to me”, expressed Kevin McClain.

The scoring guard who lists Dylan Windler, Amanze Egekeze, Justin Sears, Robin Amaize, and Jamar Diggs as his 5 best teammates so far in his basketball career began his professional career getting some NBA experience playing Summer League for the Golden State Warriors. It was an experience he surely won´t forget even if it was brief. “Any talented players I have played against, it was a pleasure but at the end of the day we’re just competing so it’s it too big of a deal for me but as for memories there’s not anything to exciting to share”, remembered Kevin McClain. He began his professional career overseas with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg which was a severe learning experience as his minutes from college were shaved down from 32 to 10 in the Eurocup where he averaged 4,0ppg. Not only was it tough seeing lesser minutes than at Belmont, but living overseas was totally different and like every American, he had a wake up call where he knew he was far away from home. “My wake up call was seeing birthdays, holidays and time go by as you catch up on most things the next day because of the different time zones”, stated Kevin McClain. He was fortunate to have been teammates with Mr Oldenburg and easyCredit BBL legend Rickey Paulding and just like for everyone else that has ever come in contact with him left a lasting impression on him. “He welcomed me like he would everybody else, he’s just that type of person. He’s a really good dude and he’s actually quiet but whenever I did ask or had a question he always had positive advice”, said Kevin McClain. He then played 2 seasons with FOS Provence Basket (France-ProB) averaging 15.5ppg, 2.7rpg, 4.2apg, Steals-4 (1.9spg), FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 77.9% and in his second season averaged 11.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 66.7 %. He played in the second division Pro B in his first year and helped the club move up to the first division called pro A. “That team was very special and we just had the right pieces in each spot and we worked together very well. There were good teams that year in the league and for me it was tough not being able to have a regular lifestyle, having 4 o’clock curfews and also playing with no fans was not so motivating at times but once we got on the court we all had fun playing and competing together”, remembered Kevin McClain. He was also fortunate to be teammates with 2 former BBL players Nik Caner-Medley and former Skyliner Zach Peacock who was with Frankfurt more than a decade ago. “Those are my big brothers and I played with Nik two years so it was good experience to be pushed and be given confidence by a great player like him, not all vet players boost you up like that but the same with Zach. I ended up getting hurt so didn’t get to play a lot of basketball with him but definitely a great vet and just talking about life and overseas life with him was always fun”, stated Kevin McClain.

The athletic guard who lists Allen Iverson, Kyrie Irving, Derrick Rose, and Steph Curry on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore and Lebron James as his GOAT then had a difficult period in his career as he was injured and couldn´t play for 1,5 years. He played his last game in France on January 28, 2022 scoring 10 points against Cholet. It was a tough period, but he finally recovered and signed with the Fraport Skyliners. “I definitely feel very blessed to play again, and I’m so thankful each and every day, and I have to remind myself it’s a process to getting back to where I once was”, said Kevin McClain. He didn´t get totally fit until December and it wasn´t easy finding his place on a deep rotation. “It was more of a challenge to regain myself physically and mentally as a player again, and at times that can be difficult to figure out when coming into a team that’s already rolling well, because you don’t want to mess up the flow of the team but I see it as a challenge and week after week I’ll become more complete and my rhythm will be there before the playoffs”, warned Kevin McClain. His scoring was there from the start as he scored in double figures in 4 of his first 5 games and hit Hagen for 22 points in a loss. He was instrumental in a big come from behind win in Koblenz where he scored in bunches and was like a microwave ala Vinnie Johnson, “I’ve been told that throughout life in basketball but at the core I’ve always been more of a scorer and I just take what the offense gives me”, stated Kevin McClain. Even if he is only in his fourth professional season, he is technically a veteran on a team that has a lot younger guys and has to show leadership. “As a pro I’ve only been able to play 3 years, not even. So for me, I still feel young but from what I have learned from my experiences, I try to help out where I can”, stressed Kevin McClain. After his solid start, he had a down month as in 5 games he scored only 28 points while shooting for 9 for 37. His scoring accuracy has picked up in recent weeks as he has scored in double figures in 4 of his last 5 games. At times the Fraport Skyliners lacks having that cold blooded scorer, but McClain could be that guy who comes through whenever needed in crunch-time. “I think as I continue to find my rhythm, I believe I can be that player in crunch-time while also trusting my teammates. I’ve been figuring it out and I will continue to and at the end of the day I want to win so whatever it takes I will be ready prove myself”, warned Kevin McClain. The team has many athletic players and his will only benefit the team. “My athleticism came more and more as I got older but I wasn’t always the fastest or jumped the highest so I used my quickness a lot but it’s definitely been a benefit for me especially on defense and attacking bigger players”, warned Kevin McClain. His scoring will always aid the Fraport Skyliners, but on a team that has the top defense in the league, his defense will always be welcome. Especially in crunch-time of the season, the ex high school high jumping champion may offer some different kind of wow players other than scoring or passing, but perhaps some athletic defensive stops that will get guys like Muenkat and Henry give their special seal of approval.

James Graham (201-F-2000, college: AUM) is a 23 year old 201cm forward that was born in Louisville, Kentucky and is playing his rookie season in Germany for the Pro A club Uni Baskets Munster averaging 10,1ppg and 4,4rpg.. He began his rookie season with the Unger Steel Gunners Oberwart (Austria-BSL) averaging 15.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.4apg, 2.0bpg, 2FGP: 58.1%, 3FGP: 27.3%, FT: 60.0%. He began his basketball career at Apollo High School and then played 2 seasons at Cuyahoga Community College (JUCO) averaging 13.9ppg, 7.0rpg, 2.7bpg, FGP: 48.9%, FT: 79.8% and in his second season averaged 16.3ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.6apg, 2.5bpg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 62.1%. He then finished at Auburn University Montgomery (NCAA2) averaging 6.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 60.0%, FT: 38.9% in his first season,12.5ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.0apg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 69.2% in his second season and 12.7ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.0apg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 76.4% in his lsast season. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks James for talking to germanhoops.com.Welcome to Germany and the Uni Baskets Munster. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball. Did the World Cup win surprise you where Germany beat USA?

The world cup did surprise me to a certain extent but I know we didn´t send out most decorated troops

What were the main reasons for you coming to Germany? You put up good stats in Austria and had a 3-4 record with Oberwart?

Things didnt work out with management and thats pretty much it, I would’ve loved to continue to play for Coach Horst

Your coming to a very good team with the Uni Baskets. They have skilled players and play beautiful team basketball. How do you feel that you will fit in best?

I’m a pretty good passer too so I think my scoring will only make the sharing the ball easier

Let´s talk about your game. Your a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

Michael Beasley.

Is it fair to say that your a 2 way player? You can score and fill the stat sheet and are a high level defender?

I’d say so, I got a lot to work on defense but I think I do pretty well

You averaged 2 blocks a game in your last 2 years in school and were doing the same in Austria. Please explain your secret to swatting away balls?

Thats the thing about secrets, once you tell them they’re no longer a secret

Your already a great defender now. What are your long term goals as a defender?

To strike fear in the offense, also to average just as many steals as I have blocks

Let´s not forget your offensive game. You can score and get rebounds. Talk about what kind of offensive player you are?

I think I can do just about anything scoring wise, all I have to is put the work in, I soak up knowledge pretty well when it comes to offense

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

I’m working on moving better to be able to fit in a guard space more, decision making/playmaking, and definitely shooting

You began your rookie season in Austria with Oberwart. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I knew I was overseas when they told me there was no AC

Despite staying on a few months in Austria, what positives do you feel could you take from the experience?

Being under Horst taught me a lot about how much detail there is in the game and how each one is crucial to the success of your goal

You played at Cuyahoga Community College (JUCO) averaging 13.9ppg, 7.0rpg, 2.7bpg, FGP: 48.9%, FT: 79.8% and averaging 16.3ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.6apg, 2.5bpg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 62.1%. Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have said that playing JUCO was the best experience that they ever had, but it was also a tough experience. How was it for you?

JUCO was the best time of my life for sure, it was hard at first but once I adopted the culture they had laid out for me it stuck and it wasn´t a problem, those are my people for life

You had a lot of success in JUCO. How did your game grow in these 2 years under Michael Duncan?

My game completely transformed, to this day I think he’s the best coach I’ll ever have, nobody is more obsessive than he is about the game.

You then finished at Auburn University Montgomery averaging 12.5ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.0apg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 69.2% and in your last season averaged 12.7ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.0apg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 76.4%. You showed incredible consistency. How did your game grow in these last 2 seasons?

I learned how to play with others a bit more. I learned how to really go and get it for myself.

You had many incredible games there like beating UAH or Montevallo where you ahd monster games. But what was your fondest moment on the court?

The best moment for me was probably our last regular season game for montevallo, although its very tough because we had a lot of great moments.

How did head coach Michael Cheaney groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Cheaney prepares you in the strangest ways, some days you’ll want to fight him but he’s never wrong it´s so crazy, he has told me about all the different aspects of playing overseas and puts you in positions mentally that would help you later. I like to call him Mr. Miagi

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Roderick Smith?

We’ve played a bunch of times, but I have a good winning record with no doubt in my mind

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

I cant think of anyone who from the NCAA but in juco probably Jay Scrubb

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Stanley Davis Isaiah Hart Jeremiah Bozeman Zach Hopewell Travis Anderson Theres so many more but you only gave me 5

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, KD, Kobe, MJ, Kyrie

Who is your GOAT and why?

Kobe is my GOAT, I resonate more with his style of how he processes the game I can relate to it more

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

They definitely should have left it alone lol

Thanks James for the chat.

It was May 2005 and I had only been involved with German basketball for a short time. I had called my first full game between the Opel Skyliners and BG Karlsruhe a few months earlier and now was covering the quarterfinals between the Opel Skyliners and Artland Dragons. It was a series that Frankfurt would win and at that time I was busy gathering quotes from players for my post game article and after that posing for 1-2 fotos. I remember meeting the outgoing and always talkative Michael Hakim Jordan who had a hall of fame smile and then also taking a pic with the more reserved Bryan Bailey (185-SG-1980, college: Bucknell). He was a quick guard that could always give his team energy at both ends. He is a guy that would go on to have a stellar 13 year professional career and after got into coaching. 18 and a half years later we reconnected thanks to his ex teammate Jordan. I reach Bryan Bailey on a rather mild Tuesday shortly before he was to depart to the Little Caesars arena where the Detroit Pistons play. He is in his fifth year as an assistant coach in the NBA and after 4 in Utah is now having a new challenge with the Atlanta Hawks. I hadn´t talked with Bryan in at least 10 years, but he remembered me. “You were always around after games. You were always friendly and saying hello to everyone. I just remember everyone knowing you from eurobasket.com”, remembered Bryan Bailey. Bryan Bailey is another rare example of a former player that went from the easyCredit BBL to the NBA as a coach. One could say his basketball journey has been like a Cinderella story.

Bryan Bailey and Miles Schmidt-Scheuber in Frankfurt in 2005

Bryan Bailey who remembers having real 1-1 battles with teammate Dan Blankenship at Bucknell was born on May 13th, 1980 in Hempstead, New York. He also has the Jamaican citizenship. He took his first steps with basketball at Rockville Centre South Side High School. He was named to the HS All-Long Island First Team in his senior year. He then embarked on a NCAA career at Bucknell from 1998-2002. His time at Bucknell wasn´t easy at first as he was a walk on and averaged only 1,8ppg. But his game took off in his second year averaging 11.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.8apg. His game took another jump in his last 2 seasons as he averaged 17.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.9apg, ‘3’Conf-3 (43.6%) and as a senior averaged 18.1ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.4apg. “I just wanted to be on the team my freshman year. Then I became a starter my last 2 years. I always had a chip on my shoulder because I hadn´t been recruited. I always wanted to work hard no matter what”, remembered Bryan Bailey. He also will always be grateful for head coach Pat Flannery for his precious guidance during those 4 years. “Pat gave me a chance to play. He let me play my game and always believed in me”, stressed Bryan Bailey. He came overseas and played his rookie season in Germany with DJK S. Oliver Wurzburg (Germany-1Bundesliga). Right away in his first game he was put to the test facing then top team Alba Berlin who in that season would win their seventh BBL league title in a row. Bailey lost by 23 points and scored 6 points and already got a taste of future legends Marko Pesic, Jovo Stanojevic, Henrik Rodl and Dejuan Collins. That game was 21 years ago and it´s logical that his memories of those legends was scarce. “I remember realizing quickly that the competition in the BBL was very good. Every team had good players top to bottom. Each game was a fight”, remembered Bryan Bailey. Back in those days, life was very different to today where you had no you tube and social media to pass the time. “I remember the O2 calling cards. We would use those to call home. There was DSL and Skype, but the connection wasn´t always good. I remember being mad when my card was empty”, chuckled Bryan Bailey. He had a very solid rookie season in Germany averaging 15.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.4spg. He scored in double figures 21 times including explosions against Ludwigsburg with 34 points and 27 points against Cologne. Despite showing he could play in the BBL, he opted to play his second season on Holland with Landstede Zwolle (Holland-Eredivisie) averaging 17.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.1apg, 2.4spg, 0.2bpg. He took a step back, but in the end it paid off as his career would really take off in the years after. “This season was very beneficial for me, because it allowed me to expose my game. Obviously this league wasn´t as good as the BBL, but I played well there and was an allstar. I went back to Germany which gave me the opportunity to play better”, remembered Bryan Bailey who lists Michael Jordan as his GOAT.

Bryan Bailey in Boston in 2023

The team leader who remembers ex Miami Heat Carlos Arroyo as being his toughest opponent in the NCAA then had his nicest run as a pro with the Artland Dragons playing in Quackenbruck from 2004-2007. He reached the playoffs each season and reached the league and cup final in 2007 under head coach Chris Fleming. ”My fondest memory was the 06-07 season. We had so much success. We beat Alba Berlin and then the defending champion Cologne. We met Bamberg in the final. Our point guard Filiberto Riveria got hurt. It was a really close series and I felt we had a shot to win it all, but Bamberg was so tough”, stated Bryan Bailey. In those 3 years he had so many great teammates like Adam Hess, Tommy Smith or Filberto Riveria, but he also had others like Michael hakim Jordan. I just had to bring back the memory of Jordan´s bus antics and his sleeping pics that he brought the world. I was surprising just how many guys actually sleep with their mouths wide open. “I don´t think Mike ever got me. You had to be careful. I remember he got a lot of people”, said Bryan Bailey. Another great player that was loved by so many especially was Darius Hall a guy you just had to love. “He was the big teddy bear of the team. He got a long with everyone. He always sacrificed everything for the team”, added Bryan Bailey. In his 3 years at Artland, he averaged 11;0ppg once and 8,0ppg twice in the BBL. He didn´t play in Germany his whole career, but also needed to explore and play in other countries from 2007-2009 did playing in Bosnia with Bosna ASA BH Telecom Sarajevo (Bosnia-D1) averaging 10.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 84.3% in the Uleb Cup and the next season played with PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-DBE) averaging 8.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 77.0%. “Bosnia was a great chance to play ULEB cup. I played at a high level and I loved Sarajevo. They had very passionate fans. In Poland I also was able to play ULEB Cup. We had a deep team and great coach with Sasa”, expressed Bryan Bailey. One of his most memorable games as a professional is one that many Alba Berlin fans won´t forget. Bailey traveled to Berlin and witnessed the historic 141-127 loss to Alba Berlin that went 5 Ot´s. “I remember we had something like 5 or 6 guys that had fouled out. I don´t remember ever being so tired after a game. I was cooked”, commented Bryan Bailey. Alba Berlin got 44 points from Bobby Brown and 33 points from Julius Jenkins while Bosnia got 33 from Lance Williams and Bailey chipped in with 20 points.

The New York native who lists Jordan, Magic, Kareem, Bill Russell and Kobe on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore returned back to Germany in the 2009-2010 season and played with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. It was a short season as he was only under contract for 1 month. But he made the most of it playing 4 Euroleague games averaging 8.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.8apg, and played 6 games averaging 9.3ppg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 89.7%. At that time, he witnessed a younger Ricky Paulding who had just helped the team win the BBL title and was only in his fourth season. Would he have expected Paulding then to play until the 2022 season with Oldenburg? “I would never have thought he would stay so long. Guys staying with 1 team was rare. He was the ultimate competitor and was a great teammate on and off the court. He was always prepared physically and mentally to play each day. Playing with him was a great opportunity to play Euroleague. I actually saw him and his wife recently in Atlanta as he was there for a AAU game of his son. It was nice reconnecting again”, said Bryan Bailey. He returned back to Artland where he would play from 2010-2012. There he was teammates once again with great players like Darren Fenn, Nathan Peavy, Brandon Thomas, and David Holston, but also others. One guy was Tyrese Rice who would go on to win the Euroleague a few years later. Was he playing at the wrong time to have gotten that NBA chance? “Yeh that could be. I mean so many guys can play in the NBA. It´s always a numbers game. He was already so good in his second year. He was crafty, quick and had a great three point shot. He was a great player”, remembered Bryan Bailey. He helped the Dragons reach the playoffs both seasons averaging 11.5ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 77.2% and 6.8ppg, 1.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 18.9%, FT: 77.0% in the BBL. His best game was a 27 point explosion against Braunschweig. Another teammate of his in Artland was big man Florian Hartenstein. His son Isaiah is in his 6th NBA season and showing his staying power in the NBA. He witnessed Isaiah at ages 12-14 as he was a U-14 player. Would he have predicted then that he would go on to the NBA? “Not at all. I remember little Isaiah. I didn´t see it at that age. I remember him being quiet and the he grew to be seven feet. Now I compete against him as a coach. I saw him in Las Vegas at NBA Summer League. When we see each other we conduct small talk. I think he could be a starter in New York, but that´s coaches decision”, stated Bryan Bailey. He would play his last 3 seasons in Bayreuth with a short stay at the end of his first season there in Rome with Virtus as he helped out during their run to the Serie A final. Once again he was fortunate to play with big time players like Brandon Bowman, Ronnie Burrell and DJ Seeley, but also Kevin Hamilton who was the definition of a pass first point guard. He truly was a guy that you had to force to shoot, but made many pretty passes. “Kevin had a knack of controlling the game. He had a very high IQ and it was really easy to play with him. He was a great teammate”, said Bryan Bailey. His best season was his first season where he averaged 12.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.7apg, 2FGP: 48.9%, 3FGP: 39.7%, FT: 84.7%. He scored in double figures in 23 games and hit Oldenburg for 24 points and Phoenix Hagen for 20 points. He retired in 2015. How would he have done as a player had he began his pro career in 2023? “I think it would have been harder than 20 years ago. There is so much more going on. The game has simply expanded in all areas on and off the court. The players are more versatile and more athletic”, stressed Bryan Bailey who believes the classic Coming to America shouldn´t have been remade.

Fabian Beierlein and Bryan Bailey in Bayreuth

So what was going on in Bryan Bailey´s mind in 2015 who Lists Khalid El-Amin, Rickey Rubio, and Dennis Schroeder (He was elite at 17 I thought I was fast) as his toughest opponents on the floor. At that time coaching wasn´t on his mind. In 2011, he told me that he wanted to get into Real estate and train young kids. He has to admit he sort of got into coaching by luck. “At first I didn´t really want to become a coach. I was interested in other things. I then received a random text from a Boston Celtics scout. I interviewed for their G-League team, but didn´t get the job. I then got in contact with my ex coach Chris Fleming and he got me in contact with Mike Miller who at that time was with Westchester. I got the job and once I got the job, I loved it. When I look back, I have to admit it was the right decision. It really doesn´t feel like a job for me. The hardest part is being away from my family”, stressed Bryan Bailey. That first year in Westchester weas so vital for him just getting a feel for what the NBA is like and how the G-League works. He couldn´t have gotten a better teacher that first season than with Mike Miller. “Mike is great. He is super organized. You think you know it all, but then when your coach you can always learn. It is always a learning game. When your at the NBA level it is like learning a new language”, expressed Bryan Bailey. His stay in Westchester was brief as in 2017, he would move to the Utah Jazz organization and be an assistant coach with their G-League affiliate Stars for 2 seasons and be reunited with his ex coach at Artland Martin Schiller and teammate Nathan Peavy. These 2 years were crucial in his coaching development, because he learned that versatility is something you need to have at that level. “I got more opportunity to use my voice. It´s not just about coaching at the G-league level, but your exposed to so many different duties like scouting, Player development, or video work. It´s like learning a new language”, warned Bryan Bailey. After 2 years, he was promoted to assistant coach with the Jazz a position he held from 2019-2023. “The biggest difference from the NBA to the G-League is that the attention to detail is a lot greater in the NBA. You have to wear more hats in the G-League whereas in the NBA there are a lot more coaches”, said Bryan Bailey. With the Utah Jazz he was able to learn further under the guidance of head coaches Quinn Synder and Will Hardy. “Both are great coaches. Synder gave me the chance in the NBA. He helped me a lot in breaking things down. Hardy is a young and upcoming coach. He showed me new nuances with preparation”, added Bryan Bailey. The Jazz had great rosters in the last years and one would think he would have mentioned a Donovan Mitchell, Rudy Gobert or Rudy Gay as guys he enjoyed working the most with, but they actually weren´t. “I enjoyed working together with Joe Ingles. He played overseas and was my guy. He is a great guy and one of those guys that worked hard to get better. He always has a chip on his shoulder. He belongs in the NBA”, warned Bryan Bailey.

Bryan Bailey and Miles Schmidt-Scheuber in Boston in November 2023

The ex guard who lists Lamont Mcintosh, Adam Hess, Darius Hall, Ruben Boumtje-Boumtje and Tyrese Rice as his 5 best Artland Teammates currently has a new challenge as assistant coach with the Atlanta Hawks. “My responsibilities really aren´t any different then when I was with the Jazz. For example if we play a team like the Knicks my duties may be in the scouting and game plan. How should we attack them, or how can we get better on the court to look good against them”, said Bryan Bailey. He has worked with high profile guards the last years and this season is helping NBA superstar Trae Young. Isn´t this guy a bit underrated in the league and in the shadow of other top guards? “I agree that he is. He is one of the best offensive talents in the league and most gifted passers in the league. He can make plays and others better”, warned Bryan Bailey. With so many years being in the NBA and around so many personalities, he must of bumped heads with NBA legends? “I have met guys like Dominique Wilkins and D Wade. My second year in Utah I was part of the coaching staff at the allstar game. I was coaching guys like Steph Curry, Chris Paul, Luka Doncic, Lebron James and Nikola Jokic just to name a few”, stated Bryan Bailey. The NBA is like a reunion of ex BBL players. Ex BG Goettingen teammates Charles Lee and John Little are with Boston, Chris Fleming is with the Chicago Bulls and ex Paderborn forward Nathan Peavy in Utah. He will forever be grateful and have his ex coach Chris Fleming in his heart. The guy brought him to Artland as a player early in his career and 11 years later helped him get his coaching break. “His relationship with players was always good. He was able to get everyone on the same page. He had this ability to empower you to do well on the court. He was always calm and demanded a lot out of his players. He has paid his dues in the NBA. I believe he can be a NBA head coach. It´s always a numbers game”, warned Bryan Bailey. Who knows maybe one day Chris Fleming and Bryan Bailey will be head coaches in the NBA. That would definitely be a fierce battle and make Gunter Kollman the former sponsor for the Artland Dragons proud knowing 2 former employees are showing the basketball world how to be successful.

pic credit: FC Barca Basketball

Oscar Da Silva (206-F/C-1998, college: Stanford) is a 25 year old 206cm forward that was born in Munich, Germany and also has the Brazilian citizenship. Currently he is playing his second season with Spanish ACB club FC Barcelona. He began his basketball career at International Basketball Academy Munich and also played with MTSV Schwabing. He played at Stanford (NCAA) from 2017-2021. He then got further professional experience in Germany playing with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg and a season with Alba Berlin winning 2 titles including cup MVP. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Euroleague game against FC Bayern Munich.

Thanks Oscar for talking to germanhoops.com. I remember interviewing you after the 2017 NBBL (U-19) final in Frankfurt where you lost to FC Bayern Munich. Since then so much has happened to you. Has time flown by?

Time really has flown by. It´s funny that I´m playing against FC Bayern Munich this week in Euroleague. Every now and then, I do think back to those youth days.

You have played so many games since the 2017 NBBL final. Can you still remember certain plays from that game?

I can remember certain plays. I remember having a fun team and really being at the high point of my youth career in the NBBL final in Frankfurt. It was a great time.

Your playing your second season with FC Barcelona. What does it mean for you to wear the Barca jersey?

It´s an honor. It is a great program with great coaches and players. It has been very enjoyable playing for this organization. It isn´t always easy. The expectations are huge and you compete against the best players on a daily basis. It is a big challenge. But I´m really happy to be here and hope for more to come.

You are a very educated young man. How have you taken in the culture of Barcelona?

It helps when I can speak the language. I feel very comfortable here. It is a great city and has great food. The weather is also nice. You feel comfortable very quickly here.

Your minutes and stats have risen in your second season. How has your game developed since day?

I think like I have been able to develop well. The only thing really missing is consistency. That is lacking at times. I hope it will come as I´m still relatively young.. I will continue to work hard and just keep going and not Stagnate.

What kind of a relationship have you had with experienced ex NBA veteran Jabari Parker? How has he helped you most on the court?

I have a good relationship with him. I´m always very impressed by his game, because he continues to do things on the court that you don´t see from other players in Europe. He has helped me most with my open court game. I try to soak in as much as possible from him and push the ball and make good decisions.

Ricky Rubio is back. What was the coolest pass you have witnessed from him since coming to FC Barcelona?

You notice right away how good of a passer he is. The best pass I saw from him so far was where he was between the free throw line and center court and he looked one way and made a back door pass. That was impressive

Do you feel like your game can develop better in the Euroleague than NBA?

That is hard to say. Players develop very well in the NBA because there are more younger players there than in the Euroleague. It´s hard to develop on well known teams in Europe where there is pressure to win. In the Euroleague are also older players that play more minutes. It is easier to develop IQ in the Euroleague than NBA.

You played a season with Alba Berlin. Every Player I have interviewed that was teammates with Luke Sikma have always raved about him. How do you remember him best?

His leadership was his biggest asset. I mean showing it the way he did isn´t self-evident in Europe. He was a player that always wanted to make his teammates better and always have everyone concentrated. His leadership was really impressive.

You were only a short time in Ludwigsburg. How vital was it getting thrown in cold water right away?

I learned a lot in a short time. It wasn´t always easy, but I was really thankful for the opportunity.

How vital was coach Robbie Scheinberg for your early basketball development? He saw quickly how talented you were and really sacrificed a lot to help you develop.

He set the cornerstone for my career. He really sacrificed a lot of time to help me develop. Time where he could have been more with his family and friends. He and Kamilo Rosenthal gave so much of their time and taught me to be disciplined.

You played at Stanford (NCAA) from 2017-2021. What kind of a player were you when you arrived and what kind of player when you left?

When I came, I played more outside and when I left I was more a position 5 which was a bit disappointing. I was a boy when I came and a young man when I left. I couldn´t have been in a better place than there in that time of my life.

What memories do you have battling Kezie Okpala. How did he make you better?

The first thing I remember from his game was his explosiveness. He was a good player and funny off the court

How have you followed the career of your brother Tristan Da Silva? How present are you in his life?

I´m his big brother and am always there for him. But what he has achieved in the NCAA is all him. Whenever he has needed advice, I have given him it. I´m very proud of how he has developed. I´m looking forward to where his basketball journey will go.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Zaire Williams?

I don´t think we ever played.

Who was toughest player that you faced in NCAA that reached NBA?

Evan Mobley and Aaron Holiday.

Thanks Oscar for the chat.

Aaron Burt (198-F, college: Simpson, CA) is a 198cm forward from Kansas playing his rookie season with the Bona Baskets Limburg. He began his rookie season with ASA (Morocco-DEX-H). He began his basketball career at Sunrise Christian Academy. He then played at Juco schools at Salt Lake Community College (JUCO) averaging 5.4ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 42.3%, FT: 63.1% and at Moberly Area Community College (JUCO) averaging 9.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 56.5%, FT: 62.5%. He then gathered experience at Lincoln University (NCAA2) averaging 7.0ppg, 3.5rpg, FGP: 62.5% and finished at Simpson University (NAIA) averaging 10.9ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 65.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Aaron for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season in Germany with the Bona Baskets Limburg. What have you enjoyed most from the experience?

Playing with Limburg has been amazing. I´m playing for a great coach and have great teammates. I have been learning a lot and becoming more smart as a player.

You have needed no adjustment time to the Regionalliga posting double double stats. What has been your secret to being able to put up such good stats?

I´m just going out every game and giving my all. I put it all on the line and isn´t afraid of the big moments.

How important has head coach Danny Stallbohm been for your rise? Have you ever gotten more of a green light than from him?

He believed in me from the start and gives me my freedom. He let´s me play through mistakes which is the best thing that can happen to a player.

What has it been like being teammates with captain Justin Stallbohm? Have you ever seen a more enthusiastic/infectious smile than his?

His smile gets me going. Even when I´m down and I see him all I can do is smile. He is a huge part of the team.

You began your rookie season with ASA (Morocco-DEX-H). What kind of an experience was this? What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

When I got up in the morning and texted my mom and she texted me back saying it was to early for me to text her since it was 5am at home. The time difference was a huge adjustment.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 198cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I haven´t heard much, but I like to watch a lot of film on Shai Gillgeous-Alexander. The way how he gets to the basket is a huge part of my game. I think he is one of the best in the NBA getting to the rim.

You can be a big scorer and rebounder. What other strengths does your game incorporate?

A strength that not many recognize right away is my playmaking ability. I haven´t really been able to show it as much here because we have a great playmaker with Matej Kljaic.

How much is your three a work in progress? How do you see the development of your three pointer?

I´m working hard on improving my three pointer. I want to get it at 35% next season. I feel like if I can shoot better from outside, then it will open up my game more.

What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I´m a solid defender and I´m pretty good on the 1-1. I think that overall, I´m a versatile defender and can rebound against bigger players.

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

I´m working most on my touch and getting to my spots.

You played at 3 Juco schools and have always had to pay your dues. How big is the chip on your shoulder especially now where you a dominant player in Germany?

My chip is huge. Many guys are scared to go the JUCO route mainly because you don´t know where you may end up. I have always bet on myself and has helped me get this far.

Every guy I have interviewed have said that Juco was a grind, but one they wouldn´t have traded for the world. How was it for you?

Being able to play JUCO was huge for my career. Every player wants to play division 1. Playing JUCO was a wake up for me. It´s either do or die. It paved the way for me. You had to have that dog mentality and that got me this far.

You began your career at Salt Lake Community College (JUCO) averaging 5.4ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 42.3%, FT: 63.1%. What kind of experience was playing your first season in Juco? What positives could you get from this?

I think the most positive thing was being away from family and friends. I´m from New York and had to move to Utah. We used the same training facility as the Utah Jazz G-League team. I saw Utah Jazz players coming and going every day and would watch how they carried themselves.

You then played at Moberly Area Community College (JUCO) averaging 9.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 56.5%, FT: 62.5%. How vital was head coach Pat Smith for your development there?

Pat Smith was the most hardnosed coach that I ever played for. You might have hated him at times, but when all was said and done you loved him. He pushed you to the limit and believed more in you then you in yourself.

You finished at Simpson University (NAIA) averaging 10.9ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 65.4%. You were close to a triple double against Pacific Union. Did you even know you were close to it?

I think I played 28 minutes. I didn´t know I had it at the end of the game. My main focus in that game was to get my teammates involved.

How did head coach Todd Franklin groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Franklin and Rob Fodor helped me understand that the little things were important. They showed me how important spacing and angles are as well as what is a good shot and what is a bad shot.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Daylon Potts?

Me every time. He never took off a paly. It was a battle every time.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced on the court that reached the NBA?

Jalen Lecque and Cameron Mack.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Justin Stallbohm, Cortez Mosley, Akim Branco, Dezmond Jones, William Ellis

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Jason Kidd

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 think so.

Thanks Aaron for the chat.

The stretch run of the Pro B south regular season had arrived in it´s crunch-time and the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were in a real dog fight with the 2 Bavarian teams Coburg and Oberaching for the fight for the last spot for home court advantage in the first round of the playoffs as all had 26 points a piece as below them there were 3 teams with 24 points apiece with Munich, Speyer and Ludwigsburg also looking to somehow sneak in. For Frankfurt to keep their win streak alive and have hopes for home court advantage, they had to withstand top team Rhondorf Dragons who had secured position 1 for the season with a home win over leitershofen. Rhondorf came to Frankfurt having won 3 of their last 4 games and wanted to sweep the season series while Frankfurt wanted to seek revenge for their bitter overtime loss in Rhondorf earlier in the season. Despite being a bit shorthanded missing 3 double license Pro A players, the Fraport Skyliners Juniors controlled the game for the first 3 quarters, but then allowed the Dragons Rhondorf to make it an exciting game in the last quarter as it looked like they would win it, but a game isn´t over until the fat lady sings as Trevian Bell (201-G/F, college: Lewis) proved with an incredible buzzer beater with 1,9 seconds to play to win the game. “This was a good old fashioned March madness type of game. Our mentality going in was to get rolling going into the playoffs. We showed a lot of resilience for 40 minutes playing a top team like Rhondorf”, smiled Fraport Skyliner Trevian Bell. The Dragons Rhondorf were also missing key big men Leon Bulic and Ferenc Gille and didn´t play their best game, but they never gave up and almost had the game won, but a game isn´t won after 39 minutes and 58 seconds. “We started off slow and had way too many turnovers. We had to fight an uphill battle. Our focus and energy was better in the second half. We had game as good as won until the buzzer beater. That was Bell´s shot”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf guard Kelvin Omojola.

Nils Leonhardt at the FT line

The Fraport Skyliners Juniors came out punching with a superb intensity while the Dragons Rhondorf didn´t and rapidly trailed 10-3. Frankfurt was sparked by back to back three´s by Illinois native Trevian Bell. The Frankfurt defense was aggressive and quickly forced Rhondorf to early turnovers. Frankfurt had inspiring team play while the Dragons Rhondorf´s offense was static and little ball movement. Rhondorf had immense difficulty getting the ball inside as Frankfurt closed up the zone well. When Rhondorf did get some offense generated through Antonio Pilipovic and Badu Buck buckets it tended to be more 1-1 plays as they trailed 14-7. Frankfurt had a strong offensive rhythm and closed out the first quarter with a lethal 14-6 run to lead 28-13 after 10 minutes. In the run, Frankfurt continued to demonstrate a love for sharing the ball as ex Hanau guard Felix Hecker drilled home a trey and free throws, 2017 JBBL finalist Calvin Schaum made a lay in while 16 year old universal genius Ivan Crnjac poured home 7 points as his adult play continues to be amazing. He showed his 3 level scoring with lay in´s and a 15 footer. “His play is a testament to our hard work in practice. We push each other to get better. All the young kids are real competitors and Ivan recognizes that he is just like the rest of us”, stated Trevian Bell. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 71% from the field and 60% from outside and had 6 rebounds and 4 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 38% from the field and 0% from outside and had 6 rebounds and 8 turnovers. “Usually when we have a good start, we have a good game. Being able to build our confidence early was big for us. We knew they would make a run eventually”, said Trevian Bell.

Tyreese Blunt lay in

In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf upped their intensity on the defensive end, but couldn´t keep it at a consistent rate as Frankfurt still had the sound 41-32 advantage at the break. Felix Hecker began with a three pointer for the 31-13 Frankfurt lead. However the Dragons Rhondorf found to their game finally rolling on a 14-3 run to trail only 34-28. In the run the guests finally hit some three´s from ex Bamberg guard Tyreese Blunt and Pilipovic while diminutive guard Marko Rosic added 4 points and 17 year old German Janne Muller made a three point play. The Dragons Rhondorf were playing better as a team and executing better while their defensive intensity heightened forcing Frankfurt to turnovers and more tough shots. Frankfurt stopped the Rhondorf run with a swift 5-0 run as Schaum nailed a three pointer and Leif Zentgraf made the 2 handed dunk as Nils Leonhardt made the extra pass for the Frankfurt 39-28 lead. Rhondorf had some defensive lapses and had some erratic offensive plays as they just couldn´t be consistent and hold their momentum. In the last minute, Las Vegas native Kelvin Omojola made a lay in and Muller free throws while Frankfurt got an offensive rebound and put back by Bell and then a buzzer beater at the break as he wasn´t done yet for the day with his crazy shots. “We played good team defense. We were playing honest and being in the right spots”, commented Trevian Bell. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 57% from the field and 38% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 345 from the field and 17% from the three point line and had 17 rebounds and 12 turnovers.

Calvin Schaum lay in

In the third quarter the Dragons Rhondorf continued to heighten their offensive production scoring 26 points and trailed only by 4 points after 30 minutes. Ex Lamar (NCAA) center Avery Sullivan wasn´t at 100% as one could see that he had knee problems, but the Texas native fought every possession and was key scoring 8 points and really carrying the Dragons. “Sullivan is a big time player. He wasn´t totally healthy. It´s a long season”, said Kelvin Omojola. Rhondorf couldn´t get consistent stops as the Frankfurt offense was also cooking as Bell continued to be a menace scoring 2 three´s while ex Trier forward Nils Leonhardt was aggressive getting 6 points including a dunk as Frankfurt held the 59-50 lead. However the Dragons Rhondorf were strong enough to stay in the game and were just waiting to pounce on Frankfurt for that next run and did producing a 6-0 run as Sullivan who continued to attack in the paint made a hook shot and Pilipovic drilled home a trey and four point play to trail 59-56. The game now was a real dog fight as both teams offenses were cooking. Frankfurt did hold the lead as captain pass first point guard Alvin Onyia made a pretty lay in high off the glass and German big man Florian Dietrich made a free throw. Badu Buck ended the third quarter with a jumper as Frankfurt had the narrow 62-58 lead. “They are number one for a reason and are deep. They made adjustments against our defense and became more aggressive and got Sullivan the ball more inside”, expressed Trevian Bell. “We switched a lot and they killed our pick and roll defense. We moved the ball better and just had more pep. When we play good offense it effects our defense and vice versa”, commented Kelvin Omojola. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 54% from the field and 35% from the parking lot and had 20 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 47% from the field and 20% from the parking lot and had 24 rebounds and 13 turnovers.

Avery Sullivan at the FT line

In the fourth quarter The game was a real nail bitter as the Dragons Rhondorf made their move and looked like they would pull away with the win, but Trevian Bell had other ideas. The Dragons Rhondorf were raising their game step by step and quickly got off on a 7-2 run at the begin of the fourth quarter to get their second lead of the game at 65-64. The Dragons run was sparked by a Omojola lay in, Pilpovic three pointer and Sullivan lay in where Omojola served up only his first dime of the game. Both teams would trade leads with a Dietrich lay in and Blunt free throws as Rhondorf led 67-66. Nils Leonhardt then supplied 2 clutch three´s while Omojola was hot getting 5 points and the game was dead looked at 72-72. Rhondorf then seemed to have a little better nerves as they went on a 9-4 run to lead 81-76 as they attacked the paint well getting 2 lay in´s from Blunt and one from Pilipovic. But Frankfurt didn´t sink their heads, but punched back with a swift 5-0 run with a Leonhardt dunk and clutch three pointer by sniper Dragon Crnjac to tie the game at 81-81 with 1,47 to play. ”It felt like March Madness. It is late in the season and all guys are in rhythm and hitting tough shots. It was that next play mentality”, added Trevian Bell. “We were executing well and once we saw shots going in, it got our defense more energized”, stated kelvin Omojola. Blunt then made a lay in for the 83-81 Rhondorf lead. After Dragons coach Stephan Dohrn got a technical foul, Trevain Bell made the free throw followed by a Schaum lay in for the 84-83 lead. Sullivan then coughed up the ball. Rhondorf fouled reliable free throw shooter Drago Crnjac, but he missed both. Rhondorf had 4 seconds and Blunt was fouled behind the three point line and made 2 of 3 for the 85-84 Rhondorf lead with 1,9 seconds to play. Frankfurt had little time. Nils Leonhardt had the ball and threw a touch down pass to the left corner caught by Bell and he hit the incredible buzzer beater for the win. “Trevian told me just to throw it up. It didn´t feel good when I passed it. Trevian caught and made an insane shot”, stated Nils Leonhardt. “I nodded my head to Nils. He made a perfect pass over my shoulder. I had 2 seconds and gave a pause to get Sullivan in the air. I waited until he was down and then shot it. I knew it was going in. I have been practicing extra hard as of late in order to be prepared for a moment like this”, warned Trevian Bell. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Trevian Bell with 24 points while Nils Leonhardt added 17 points and the Dragons Rhondorf were led by Tyreese Blunt and Avery Sullivan with 18 points apiece. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 55% from the field and 37% from outside and had 27 rebounds and 17 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 48% from the field and 26% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 15 turnovers.

Devin Hutchinson (196-G/F-1996, college: Radford) is a 27 year old 196cm guard from North Carolina playing his second pro season overseas and first with Delikatesas Joniskis (Lithuania-NKL). He played his first season overseas with New Bayazet (Armenia-Caucasus BL, starting five): 15 games: Score-3 (20.8ppg), 5.1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 71.8%. He also has experience in the States playing with the High Point Lycans (ECBL), Kannapolis Lycans (ECBL), Charlotte Purple Jackets (TBL) averaging 29.8ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 55.7%, 3FGP: 26.9%, FT: 78.7%, and the Oklahoma Panthers (TBL) averaging 25.1ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 45.2%, FT: 70.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Devin for talking to germanhoopscom. Your playing your second season overseas and first with Delikatesas Joniskis (Lithuania-NKL). How blessed are you to be playing overseas after seemingly having to pay your dues for years?

Extremely blessed. I was thankful enough to have the right people around me to make sure that my focus remained the same. I was able to stay in the gym, and really fall in love with the aspect of working on my craft, and knowing that if I stayed consistent, all my work would pay off.

How big is your chip on your shoulder? You played 2 years of NCAA ball, but still couldn’t get a job overseas right away? How has the grind been for you the last 3 years? I can imagine your love for the game outweighs all adversary?

I would say it’s huge. I didn’t play high school basketball at all, so I knew that even getting into college ball wasn’t going to be easy. I believe that’s when I realized that I could defeat whatever odds were stacked against me. Coming out of college, my numbers weren’t jumping off the page like some of my other peers, but that’s where the love of the game really collided with the determination to become a pro. I wanted to live a life that revolved around basketball, because that’s what I was passionate about.

How have you experienced Lithuanian basketball? It is a small country but the people love their basketball. What has been the craziest experience that you have seen in the country?

I love Lithuanian basketball honestly. It just shows me that the game is growing in so many ways, and people around the world love the game as much as I do. It’s different of course, but the intensity, physicality and fans, is some of the things I love the most about it. Craziest experience would be the playoff games! It reminds me of college basketball and just the intensity and sense of urgency with every minute that passes by.

Your currently in a playoff battle with Palanga with game 5 on Sunday. How exciting has this playoff series been for you?

Very exciting. This is what you practice for, this is what you think about late at night. Playing the best competition available, no matter where you are, and excelling and heightening not only your level of play, but the level of focus and determination that it takes to play in these environments. We were underdogs when the series started, and they are a great and well-coached team and organization, but I just felt as though we can compete with anybody you put in front of us.

You scored 51 points in game one including a crazy 11 three’s. How historic was this performance for you? I would say more than 90% of pro players overseas will never hit 50 points overseas.

I consider to be one of the defining moments in my early career, and I plan to have more. Just the individual bullet points surrounding the series itself got my fire going. The league picking us to get beat 3-0, calling it a total mismatch across the board, I just took that really personally and I was able to use that energy in a positive way and we got a win to go along with it.

Did you know early on that you would have a great game? How quickly did you feel yourself in the zone?

The nights leading up to the game, I would have talks with myself, telling myself ‘This is what you work for, all that waiting, grinding, thinking. This is where you want to be, this what the game is all about’ It was just a different feel to the game, and you love to play against the top guys, and be the underdog, I just felt I had a lot to prove, not only to the league, but to myself, that this is something that I’m capable of doing. Coming on the court to shoot before the game, my energy just felt great, and it was one of those nights for me and my teammates kept me going.

It has been a very good season for you. But what I just noticed that out of nowhere you have become a great shot blocker at 196cm. Your averaging 3,0 blocks per game. Before this season never more than 0,3. What has happened this season for you become a dominant shot blocker?

Thank you. Just trying to be in the right position defensively, knowing that I don’t have to block every shot, but just pick my battles and I’ve been choosing them pretty well as of late.

You’re a 196cm guard. If you had to compare your gamed to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I watch a handful of guys and try to take bits and pieces, and add them to my game, but Devin Booker is an NBA guy that I would compare my game too. Just his ability to score at all three levels, and take some point guard duties as well. I’d like to also put a little Kevin Punter in there as well, not an NBA guy but definitely one of my favorite players to watch.

You’re a explosive scorer that can fill the stat sheet at ease. What other strengths does your game have?

I feel as though I’m becoming more of a rebounder and playmaker, just trying to polish my game in all aspects. Great teammate as well. Also trying to become more disciplined defensively.

You have picked up your game as a defender. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I appreciate the compliment. As of right now, defense has become a focal point for me because of post season play. I know that defense will get us over the hump and defense will save us if our offense isn’t where it needs to be on a particular night. I want to become a player that plays defense the same all the time, not just when it’s needed or it’s a huge part of the game. I want to be one of those guys that plays both ends of the floor at a high level all the time, no matter the situation.

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

I’m working my playmaking abilities. Not only scoring, but making plays for my teammates, putting them in position to have success as well. Also, just becoming more of a student of the game, doing research, a lot of film study, just anything to get the edge and become better everyday.

After playing your rookie season in Armenia, you played last season back in the states with the Charlotte Purple Jackets (TBL) averaging 29.8ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 55.7%, 3FGP: 26.9%, FT: 78.7%, and with the Oklahoma Panthers (TBL) averaging 25.1ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 45.2%, FT: 70.6%. Did you not get any offers from overseas?

No I didn’t, but one of my good friends Kamarunas, he suggested I go to China, and train with him for the summer. Have a good experience in another country playing basketball, and it may land me an opportunity for next season, and thankfully, his plan worked.

How tough is this grind in the TBL where every player is playing for their stats? What does a player learn about himself during this grind?

The grind is really arduous, and you have to be mentally tough to survive it. The living conditions aren’t the best, and you have to deal with some things that are out of your control. But you learn how much you truly love the game, and if you love it enough, you’ll think big picture and know that this is only temporary. You’ll be where you want if you continue to put in the work.

You played your first season overseas with New Bayazet (Armenia-Caucasus BL) averaging 20.8ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 71.8%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

When I landed in Armenia. You’re by yourself, it’s cold, snowing. And you have to look for a guy you never seen before to pick you up. No phone service so it’s not like you can call him, you just have to hope he’s there and recognizes you.

How tough was Covid after Radford (NCAA) for you getting a job? You had your first pro experience with the High Point Lycans (ECBL). Did you ever have second thoughts about the pro journey?

Second thoughts only come from talking to people who don’t really understand your love for the game. That’s okay, but I was preparing myself for the moment that would come, any opportunity I got to showcase my work, and prove myself, I was taking it.

You began your college career at Brunswick Community College (JUCO) averaging 9.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 85.3% and 16.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 41.6%, FT: 70.1%. Every Juco player that I have interviewed always says that the JUCO grind was tough, but an experience that they wouldn’t have traded in for the world. How was it for you?

Juco was an outlet for me to show the basketball world that I belonged. It was a way for me to get used to balancing being an athlete and a student, because I didn’t get that practice in high school. But I loved every bit of it. It molded me into the player and man I am today.

How vital was head coach Walter Shaw in your 2 JUCO years? How did he prepare you for the NCAA?

He was the exact coach that you want to play for. Coach Shaw just seen my raw potential early on. He believed in the scorer that I was and gave me countless opportunities to show it, while still coaching me hard, and letting me make mistakes in high pressurized situations. It ended up getting me a scholarship.

You then played 2 years at Radford University (NCAA) averaging 4.1ppg, 1.2rpg
and 4.6ppg, 1.0rpg.What memories do you have? Your senior year there was explosive scorer Carlik Jones and other scorer Travis Fields, but that was it. Were you not able to showcase your offensive game the way you might have liked?

I consider myself to be one of the best scorers that played for that team, however I had a role to play because we already had such prolific ball handlers, and we were winning a lot of games, so I accepted early that I wouldn’t have the opportunities to showcase my scoring as I did in juco. I still wanted to help the team win as much as I could, so I was willing to take less shots for the betterment of the team.

In your senior year you had some fine games against Presbyterian and Hampton. What was your most memorable game?

My most memorable game was probably that Presbyterian game. Coach Mike Jones had just been suspended for one game, and the team really rallied around each other, and I was thankful to be a huge part in the win.

How did head coach Mike Jones groom and prepare you for a professional career?

He’s a great coach and he taught me that nothing comes easy, you have to earn everything, nothing will be given, no matter the credentials or what you have done before. Only thing that matters is the work you continue to put in on a daily basis. With the help of my other coaches David Boyden, and others on that staff, he taught me how to hold myself accountable.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Devontae Holland?

ME! And if you see this bro I’m sticking this story! Haha.

Who was the toughest player that you ever played against on a court that reached the NBA?

I’d have to say Carlik Jones, and he was on my team! Just everyday at practice with him really showed me what a pro looks like, the confidence he has about himself was amazing, the way he approaches the game, the level of focus he has.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Carlik Jones (Radford)
Travis Fields (Radford)
Andre Jackson (Lycans)
Jael Scott (Lycans)
Ed Polite Jr (Radford)

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Kobe Bryant
Michael Jordan
Kevin Durant
Lebron James
Honorable Mention- Shaquille O’neal

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe Bryant. His obsession with the game is the most relatable. It’s always where my mind goes, it keeps me up at night, just the thought of my highest basketball goals raises my heart rate, and I love every bit of it.

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

I didn’t get a chance to see it, but the first Coming to America was a classic, so if it’s anything less, then yes they should have left it alone!

Thanks Devin for the chat.

Josiah De La Cerda (203-F, college: OUAZ) is a 203cm forward from Fresno, California playing his rookie season in Germany with Regionalliga team Roth Energie Giessen Pointers currently averaging 19,6ppg and 6,3rpg.. He began his basketball career at Clovis West High School. He then played at Bellevue University (NAIA) averaging 3.3ppg, 1.7rpg and then played Yuba College (JUCO averaging 9.5ppg, 3.9rpg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 72.5%. He then played 3 years and 81 games for Ottawa University, AZ (NAIA) averaging 17.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 59.5% and in his second season averaged 17.2ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 70.6% and in his last season averaged 18.0ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 60.1%, 3PT: 47.6%, FT: 76.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after exploding for 40 points against the Bona Baskets Limburg.

Thanks Josiah for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season overseas in Germany with the ROTH Energie Giessen Pointers (Germany-Regionalliga). What kind of an experience has it been for you and what have you enjoyed most about living in Germany?

I honestly don’t know where to begin. To still be playing the game I love, that I’ve given my all to for well over 15 years is my dream come true moment in life. The experience has been very tough and grueling both physically and mentally with challenges I haven’t faced before. Being in an environment where people and the way of living is very different and there’s a language barrier makes things a challenge. For me though, I enjoy hardships because they mold you and I’ve truly enjoyed my time in Gießen. My experience in the city and from the fans and team aspect has been amazing. They have embraced me in the organization my teammates and the fans and I truly have pride to represent the pointers. I enjoy the small moments around my team and coach and the times off the court with my close friends. The culture is rich and I enjoy the most getting to adapt and fit in to cultural nuances of Germany.

The Giessen Pointers are having a very good season. What do you feel has been the secret to the success?

Our team has faced many things this season and you’re right as far as many are concerned we’ve been successful. The thing that makes this team work so well is the collection of guys we have. From top to bottom, the team is made up of great guys, good human beings that show up to work when the time comes. We as a team have bought in to the things that coach wants us to do and we play as hard as we can every time we step on the court every weekend. I think the thing that’s helped us the most down the latter part of the year is being battle tested through the season and learning from those things. We play good defense and find our spots to best score the ball on offense. Lastly, I feel we all have the burning desire to win the league and seek promotion and it’s pushed our team to new heights.

What has it been like being teammates with American Elijah Allen.He was actually already retired and came back. Has he been a mentor for you?

Elijah like I said previously about every person on our team is a great human being first. He’s positive coming in every day and is a true professional that puts the team first all the time. His impact on me over the course of my rookie year is something that has gotten me through most of the difficult points of our season. He’s helped me the most in just coaching me on how to interact with others like my teammates and my coaches and how to put myself in the best positions for my whole team to succeed. We’ve had many conversations as well outside of basketball about being a pro and seeing every side of being a pro and also just on the things I can do to take my game to the next level. Things like always sprinting the floor and sealing, going for every rebound, picking my spots, all things that have been crucial to my success this season. He truly has passed the torch along to me and tells me every day that I’m up next on the path to being great and that means everything to me to have someone of his caliber with so much belief in me.

How big is the chip on your shoulder? You have had to pay your dues everywhere and are doing it again in the German Regionalliga. How big is your desire to keep having to prove yourself and just prove people wrong?

For me, I wouldn’t necessarily say I have a chip on my shoulder at this point when it comes to playing. Over the past year I’ve reached a new state of peace in my life and what drives me is my love for the game and desire to make my family proud. People like my mom and dad, my 4 siblings, my grandparents, and close friends and former teammates I just strive to play for them. That’s not to say that I don’t have desire to be the best player I can be and reach my goals and be successful but I’ve realized that I’m not defined so much by basketball but by my faith in Jesus Christ and his undying love for me. So I truly play for an audience of 1 and I know that above all else I have family and friends that love me. I am grateful for an organization to give me a chance and I’m also dedicated to being the best I can for all the Pointer faithful.

Your putting up very good stats. You picked up your game in 2024. What has been your secret to being able to adjust so well to overseas ball?

To be very honest, the transition to playing overseas at the beginning of the season was difficult for me. I mainly had a hard time finding out where I was supposed to be on the court and making the right reads. I was also struggling with a major injury and being healthier has also played a big role in being able to elevate my play in the late half of the season. I’d attribute a lot of being able to adjust to my coaches and teammates. They’ve put their trust in me and my ability to make plays and I’ve learned a lot just be watching the things my teammates do on the floor. We have a lot of experienced guys and being able to take a small piece from everyone’s game has been the key to my success. It’s also helped that me and Coach Kostic have developed a great relationship over the time here. We have had many conversations about his belief in me as a player and he’s really pushed me to limits I wasn’t sure I could reach as a player.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm forward and are the tallest on the team. Is that strange for you or was that also the case in the NAIA and JUCO?

It’s been standard on any team I’ve played on for me to be the tallest player on my team. When I was in college it was more normal for me to play center because the guys playing center weren’t the traditional seven footers you see in division one. I would consider myself more of a power forward because I have the ability to shoot, dribble, and post up.

If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? You can score and rebound very well. What other strengths does your game have?

My NBA player comparison that I would say is Karl-Anthony Towns. I compare our games because he notably plays the 4 now for the Timberwolves and some in college at Kentucky. He’s a great pick and pop shooter and spot up jump shooter. He’s also usually putting it on the floor for two or three dribbles and posting up. These are all things I think my game displays. When it comes to my strengths that I feel I have outside of scoring I think I’m a pretty good passer out of doubles which I’ve seen for the past 4 years and also feel I’m a very good shooter. I think another strength is my floater and touch around the rim which I’ve repped out for most of my life. Lastly I’d say that I feel I do a good job of playing defense without fouling. On any given night I’m able to play long stretches because of my solid defense without picking up more than 2 fouls a game or struggling with foul trouble.

What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

This is a perfect question based on the end of my answer to the last one. In my opinion, I would say I’m a very solid defender and there is definitely a lot of room for me to improve. I wouldn’t say that I’m completely shutting people out from scoring the ball but I think a key part to being a good defender is to play solid without fouling. I’ve done a good job of that over the years and rarely have had to sit in any games or struggled with foul trouble. This year in particular I feel I’ve experienced a new style of defense and have done a good amount of switching onto guards without it being a mismatch for me. There are two main things that I would want to improve on in terms of being the defender I want to be. I would say being more of a shot blocker at the rim or just point of attack and then being a more instinctual help side defender. I think that comes with more physical quickness and ability and also more knowledge of the game. I think sometimes the key to being a good defender is being a student of defense the same as you would study offense.

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

The areas I want to work on the most in my game which I think would make me more dangerous all around is a bit of a midrange game. I grew up taking layups and threes because for me it’s the most efficient two shot types in the game. But the midrange can be effective I believe if you develop it and use it in the right situations. It would improve my game a lot if I were to get pushed off of certain spots. The next thing would be to improve finishing with both hands which I feel I can do but it’s usually default for me to finish with my right hand in most instances. My footwork is another thing I feel I can get better at and want to improve because it would allow for more counter moves.

You began your college career at Bellevue University (NAIA)playing 27 games averaging 3.3ppg, 1.7rpg. Y Bellevue University (NAIA): 27 games: 3.3ppg, 1.7rpg. You only averaged 7,7 minutes per game. How tough was this time and what did you learn about yourself?

Thinking back on that time period now it is honestly one part of the journey that I hate and love the most. It was a tough time for sure mentally because as a basketball player I felt like my confidence was shot down. This was also the first time in my career that I had felt unprepared. I was young and pretty naive as to how higher levels of basketball were and for that it was even harder on me in that time. I think it was good in the fact that I was thrown into the fire a little bit and it made me have to adapt and learn things very fast. The good thing about it was that I had two veteran big men playing in front of me and some other very experienced players that I learned a lot from. I learned a lot of the nuances to scoring all around and defending from these guys and it’s translated specifically to how I play today. All in all it taught me the importance of sticking out a commitment you make to a team and to be patient and wait for your time to come. It also taught me how important it is to be prepared for any situation you may have to adapt to. I’m really just happy that I had that experience that I can in turn give back to young players who deal with the same things.

You played 1 NCAA game against South Dakota and played 16 minutes scoring 6 points. You played against future NBA player Stanley Umude. What memories do you have of this game?

So this game obviously came back in my first year of college so not the most vivid memories I would say but one thing I could say was that the level of athleticism of the guys playing at that level was something that jumped out to me right away. Another major thing the division 1 athletes have is such good footwork which helps make the game easier for them. I have played in many division 1 games over the years and the one thing I would say from that game and many of the other ones is the crowd is sometimes a major factor in the game. Now I have adapted to large crowds and noise and pressure but it for sure has an impact when you have thousands of fans screaming at you. Last thing I will say is that the six points I had in that game were probably the hardest 6 points I’ve ever scored.

You then played 1 year at Yuba College (JUCO) playing 29 games averaging 9.5ppg, 3.9rpg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 72.5%. All guys I interview that played JUCO say it was tough but an experience they would of never traded in for anything. How was it for you?

Juco was probably one of the best things I’ve experienced in my life. I say this because juco life is very difficult but it’s tough for all the right reasons and it’s a situation where you go as far as you push yourself. I came into juco fresh off of my hardest season in my career and I was to put it most simply at one of the lowest moments of my life. It’s always hard when you’re playing at a certain level like naia or for some people division 1 to come back and play juco. You feel that weight of kind of being a failure. But juco is filled with some amazing players that often go on to play at higher levels and usually turn pro. I also had the luxury in juco of being on a very good team that went to the sweet 16 of the state playoffs and was able to play with one of my best friends that I went to high school with. Juco was very pivotal for me in just showing what happens when you pour time into yourself and you have a support system that believes in you. Coach Cornelius and the staff were the first coaches I truly felt believed in me and the potential I had as a player. That was the most important thing that led to my success at that time. I would tell any kid coming up in the basketball scene to never be ashamed of going juco it will wind up being one of the best decisions you will ever make.

How important was head coach Doug Cornelius for your Juco year? How did he make you a better player?

Coach corn was so important in that year like I said before he was the first coach to truly believe in me. It works wonders for your confidence when you have a person who pulls for you like he did and does everything in his power to see you play at the level you want to. Coach was also a great motivator and not in the way of him yelling and doing anything drastic but did a great job of motivating you while also staying calm. This is so important In juco because it is hard mentally and sometimes you feel like giving up so a coach that keeps you going in a positive fashion is something that changes everything. I’d say coach corn is by far the best junior college coach in California and his resume shows it. He has a knack for getting guys to 4 years and like I said turning a lot of them pro. Can’t stress how thankful I am to have had him as part of my journey.

You then played at Ottawa University, AZ (NAIA) from 2020-2023 playing 81 games. You were so consistent averaging 17,0ppg and 7,0rpg in those 3 years. How did your game grow there?

My time at Ottawa was truly something special from the second I stepped on campus. I can talk for hours about how my life changed while being there. By the time I played in my first game there, my game was tailor made to reach the heights it did while I was there. My game elevated a lot because I was able to spend hours in the gym and had unlimited access to a great training facility and weight room. I gained probably 10 to 15 pounds of muscle, a lot of which I didn’t have when I first started college. The second go around at NAIA, I felt fully prepared and after the first experience in college and the time I spent after juco during Covid, I was truly grateful to have the opportunity to play at a high level again. The biggest thing that helped me play at such a high level was my teammates and coaches and how easy they made the game for me. Our coaches worked so many hours daily going through film and showing us things that made it easy to improve and build good habits. Most notably, I feel our team trained our minds daily and learned the importance of being mentally tough and that has helped my game so much. By the time I left there, I was able to create a legacy I can be proud of and make so many lifelong friendships and connections. I can truly say for the first time in my life after being there that I gave everything that I had and have no regrets.

You won 2 GSAC titles. Which one was sweeter?

Those two titles were equally as sweet to me for different reasons. I have to preface this by saying we won two gsac titles in our first two years ever playing in the conference tournament so that in itself was very special. The first one was special because we shocked a lot of people by winning the championship and I personally hit two free throws to win the game so that was major for the trajectory of my career and life. The feeling of winning the first one is so great because it’s pure euphoria. All of the work you put into your career culminating into one moment makes you feel like it’s worth it. That first team was also my favorite team I’ve ever been on. But when it comes to the second one, it’s always amazing when you’re sitting on the mountain top and you can defend it. The second one felt so good because as a team we were able to put a lot of the talk about our first win to rest. When you win one in such a controversial way as we did in the first championship it comes with a lot of hate and a lot of scrutiny. The feeling of winning the second one was like being on top of the world. The best part of it all and I always say it is when you win something significant like a league title at any level, it’s such a team accomplishment. No one will remember who scored the most or did the most for the team but will always remember that team as a whole; all 15 guys that each had a major part to play in it. To all my guys on those two teams and coaches involved shoutout to you all.

You left the school as it´s alltime-leading scorer. What does this achievement mean to you?

This meant everything to me and was the byproduct of the years of work I had put in. It was a time in my life that I accomplished something I could truly be proud of and it’s something I never even dreamed of accomplishing. I’m still not sure if it has even set in how big of a deal that is to be the all time leading scorer anywhere but for me it goes to show how much more I really want to accomplish in my career. I truly want to go down as the best player to be in any organization I play for but more than that, I want to be someone who makes an impact on others lives in a positive way. Although accomplishments are great, people will remember the person you are and that will outshine anything else you’re able to do. Mostly I can say I’m grateful I was able to have such an accolade and be remembered as a great basketball player in the short history of Ottawa.

You reached the NAIA final 4 losing 73-72 to Idaho College scoring 28 points and getting 10 rebounds. Is this a game that you will remember well in 10 years?

That final 4 game is probably one game in my career that I will never forget. So many different things play a part in why that game was so special to me and to my team. It makes me smile to think about it now because the game was truly a testament to who my team was up until the last second we played in that game. At first, it was hard to even watch the game back after it finished. I couldn’t bring myself to watch the game for about 2 to 3 months after. Coach Keeley has told this story many times but I want to retell it for the sake of this interview and those who haven’t heard it. In the middle of last years season, our team was in the middle of a little slump and we had to sit back and reevaluate where we wanted our season to go. We had a team meeting where all of us were honest about what we wanted out of the season and the coaches were brutally honest about what we needed to do to achieve our goals. A lot of us players had to sacrifice a lot of things; our egos, playing time, shots, etc. My teammate McKay Bundy in the meeting said his goal for the season was to play as long as we could as a team. This team was a real family and we loved each other like brothers and this drove the rest of our season. Fast forward to this game in the final 4 of the national tournament and the whole game we are losing. Down as much as 15 and 20 at points in the game but near the end we made a full comeback and it ended up being something like a 2 or 3 point game and we lose at the end after fighting so hard and giving every last ounce of effort we have. We lost by 1 point for a chance at the national championship so you can only imagine how emotional that is; for most of us the last game of our career. All of us are in the locker room as a team and we’re devastated and everyone in that locker room is crying. Coach is thinking of how to address us and McKay says “coach, we almost did it, we almost played for as long as we could.” Such a powerful thing epitomized how tight knit our family was. That’s what I’ll remember most from that game.

How did head coach Matt Keeley groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Keeley helped to prepare me just by being who he is as a person. He’s one person I’ve met that, no matter what the situation is or what he’s going through in life, is optimistic about what’s to come. He’s always super energetic and sees everyday as a new opportunity for new challenges and new breakthroughs. This has helped me in my professional life to take everything in stride and be ready for every challenge that life throws at me. He taught me the importance of staying even keel mentally and being grateful for any challenge that comes my way. Lastly, he taught me the importance of trying to improve little by little everyday and how over the long run, it can lead to truly special things in life.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Devin Collins?

To be real honest, there wasn’t really a time when me and Dev actually played one on one after practice. We would mainly stick to just getting shots up together if anything. But when we happened to be matched up in practice it was always a great battle and tough task. Dev truly pushed me to be better, to play stronger, and to be detail oriented when playing. This is because in practice if you don’t box him out, he’s getting a rebound or if you don’t sprint back he’s outrunning you for a layup. He’s also very strong and physical player so you have to use ball security when scoring and can’t shy away from contact. All in all there’s really not too many tougher bigs I’ve matched up with.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced on the court that reached the NBA?

Jalen Green. He was by far the toughest person that I have played against that is now in the nba. The crazy part about it was that when we played each other he wasn’t even at his peak. I had faced him twice when I was a senior in high school in two separate tournaments. The first game we beat his team at our home tournament in which he played well but the second game he completely took over the game and had well over 40 points. Me and friends of mine who played in that game have laughed in recent years because he was showing then a lot of what he does now with an insane handle and athleticism.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Naming just 5 of my best teammates is so hard because I’ve played with very talented guys and also some teammates that I have a genuine brotherhood and friendship with to this day. I got to say my best teammates came on my Ottawa teams my last 3 years. All of those dudes are my brothers forever and I have to shout all of them out as my favorite teammates. For the top 5 I’m going to have to say Devin Collins, Kolten Hitt, Kameron Warrens, Alex Villi, and Maxwell Moses. Devin and Kolt probably two of the hardest working teammates I’ve ever had and they taught me what it was like to put your body on the line for your teammates and just to come in everyday and give it your all at practice or in a game. Me and Alex were roommates last year and created an even deeper bond than what we had while we played together in high school. Alex is probably one of the most calm relaxed and level headed people I know and a true selfless person. Kam and Max were two of my favorite just individual people off the court. The two of them are very similar to me in personality and we had many memories that’ll last a long time. These two have also been two of my biggest supporters in my journey to this day.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

My personal Mount Rushmore consists of mainly new generation players you can say but it’s all players I personally watched and feel changed the game for me and many others. On my Rushmore, I’m putting Lebron, Kobe, Steph, and KD. Kobe was the first player I really grew up watching when I was around 7 or 8 years old. He also has one of the most lasting effects on my game now because of me just being out in the driveway after watching Kobe highlights and working on my game. KD was so important to me as a player because he’s my favorite player of all time and he is probably the best player to ever play for my favorite team. I also tried to model a lot of my game after his when I was young just in terms of being a tall player who can score in many ways.

Who is your GOAT?

My goat is Lebron James for me he does it all and I grew up watching him play almost every game. For me he’s the most complete basketball player and if there was a player you wanted to make as a prototype for a basketball player it would be Lebron. His career he has every accolade and achievement to prove and show why he is the goat player. Leading scorer in the nba all time, multiple finals wins, and mvps you can argue that he deserved more. To do that with all the pressure he had on him coming into the league and end up being the best player in the nba for 20 years makes him my goat.

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

I haven’t seen the sequel to the movie but in my experience every sequel of a movie that was really good has tended to be pretty bad. Some movies are better left as a singular movie because there’s no good way to spin off of the first movie.

Thanks Josiah for the chat.

Travis Henson (199-SF-1999, college: CSUB) is a 24 year old 199cm forward from Maryland playing his rookie season in Germany with pro B team Iserlohn averaging 19,0ppg, 4,1rpg and 1,6apg. He began his basketball career at Potomac High School. He then played 2 seasons and 58 JUCO games for Angelina College averaging 6.3ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 73.3% and 15.8ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT: 82.4%. He then played at California State University Bakersfield (NCAA) from 2020-2023 playing a total 80 games and as a senior averaged : 8.3ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 82.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.comabout basketball.

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

I am currently enjoying life in Iserlohn and my basketball life has been great due to the fact that I am living a life long dream of being a professional basketball player.

Congrats on signing your first pro contract with German Pro B team Iserlohn. It has always been your dream to be a professional. How long have you been working for this opportunity?

I started playing basketball at the age of 4 so I have been training for this moment mostly my entire life.

How was the transfer market in 2023? Did you have other offers or was Iserlohn the only one?

I had a couple of other offers but I was still in school finishing my bachelor’s degree so I couldn’t go but after that it was a while before I got another offer but when I did it was Iserlohn.

What was your first impression of head coach Dennis Shirvan? What did you like most about his basketball philosophy?

Coach Dennis is a very down to earth guy and great coach, the thing I like most about his basketball philosophy is how he is able to implement the strengths and talents of his players into what he wants to do both offensively and defensively.

How big is your hunger to keep producing from where you left off in the NCAA? You broke out in your senior year, but it seems like you are ready to also break out right away in your rookie season?

I am very determined to pick up right where I left off and show people that despite what my overall stats might say, that’s the player that I really am and capable of being on a nightly basis.

Let´s talk about your game? You’re a 198cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I think the player I would compare myself to in the NBA right now is Andrew Wiggins because he is a wing that can score at all 3 levels, very athletic, and can guard multiple positions.

You’re a guy that can fill the stat sheet and hit the three pointer. What are your biggest strengths on the court?

I think my biggest strengths on the court are my athleticism and my ability to score at all 3 levels.

How developed do you see your three pointer being now? Do you see yourself being able to become a high volume shooter overseas?

I think that my three pointer has developed a lot over the past few years. And I feel that I will be able to be a very effective and efficient shooter overseas.

What kind of defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I think that I am a defender that is really good in help situations getting blocks and playing passing lanes. I still want to improve my on ball defense and my lateral foot speed.

ON what area´s of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to progress your game?

I think that the only thing that I’m missing from my game is the ability to get whatever I want on the court with my handle, I think I have a good enough handle to be secure with the ball, but once my handle goes to that next level I feel that I will truly be able to do whatever I want on the court.

You began in JUCO at Angelina. Every guy I have interviewed have said that JUCO was a real challenge, but one they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

I am definitely proud to say that I’m a Juco product and I think it helped prepare me for the daily grind of basketball and the level at which I needed to compete everyday to separate myself from my peers, it also taught me what a real bond with your teammates can do for team success, especially when everyone works together towards a common goal for the group and not for themselves.

How important was Nick Wade in your early basketball development at Angelina College? How did he get you ready best for the NCAA?

Coach Wade was very influential in helping me become not only the basketball player I am today but the man I am today also. He taught me to not only how to work and hold myself accountable, but he also gave me all the confidence in the world to be myself on the court and have fun, and that’s a mindset that I take with me on the court everyday and I’m thankful to have been able to play for him and win with him.

In your second NCAA game with CSUB, you hit Bethesda for 21 points and 7 three´s in a 51 point wash out. How important was this game for your confidence and what memories do you have of the game?

That game gave me the confidence to feel that I belonged at the D1 level and I just remember feeling like the basket was 10 times wider than normal.

Your game really picked up in your last 12 games of your senior year as you scored in double figures in 10 games in that span. How did your game grow in your last year there?

I feel that in that span I got more of an opportunity to be able to play freely and be myself on the court and I took advantage of that opportunity and it showed in the games.

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

Coach Barnes showed me how to work hard with a purpose, and the true meaning of being a professional and for that I will always be grateful.

Who won a 1-1 in practice, you or Justin McCall?

We’ve never actually played 1 on 1 but if we did I would win, that’s my guy though lol

Who is the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that would reach the NBA?

I would say Jamie Jaquez was the toughest.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I’ve had so many great teammates from high school all the way to D1 so to pick 5 would be too hard to do

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Allen Iverson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Kevin Durant

Who is your GOAT and what is your opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest Jordan or Lebron and why isn´t Kobe mentioned more?

My GOAT is Michael Jordan and I definitely hate that Kobe’s name isn’t brought up in the debate enough and I couldn’t tell you in a million years why it isn’t but in my opinion if I had to rank them 1-3 it would be Jordan 1, Kobe 2, and Lebron 3

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America?

Yes I saw it

Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

I actually think it was great that they made, the sequel and not only do I think it was good but I also think that it was cool for them to bring such a classic movie back for the younger generation.

Thanks Travis for the chat.

In the days Leading up to the Quantez Robertson #23 Jersey retirement ceremony, I was wondering which ex teammates would show up in the arena to pay their respects. A lot of Robertson´s teammates are still active overseas, so it was tough to have them there. Many of his ex teammates that are Americans are retired and didn´t have the time to make the trip overseas simply because the date was only announced a few weeks ago. I was hoping to see some guys and did. I was pleased to see ex Euroleague player Danilo Barthel who won a chip with Tez in 2016. I also looked twice when I saw Rasheed Moore who played 2 seasons with Tez and now is playing in Jena. He had had a game the night before and had an off day on Sunday. Moore developed into a very good player in Frankfurt and it was obvious that Tez had had a big effect on him. “He was the ultimate leader. To be able to learn from him meant the world for me., I´m so happy I could be here. It is something that I will never forget”, stated Rasheed Moore. Then as I turned my head, a familiar face popped up and one I totally had forgotten about with Jermale Jones (185-G-1986, college: Tuskegee). He is 37 year old guard and is still an active player currently playing in Switzerland and living in the beautiful city of Luzern. He is also a guy that I have developed a good relationship over the years and also seen him play on occasion. He played 5 years in Lich, about a 50 minute drive from Frankfurt and he often would watch Tez play in Frankfurt. He knows Tez since their college days and it was only obvious that he would be there to attend. When I asked him how often he believes he had watched Tez play in Frankfurt, he mentioned more than 20. I was at most games of Tez in the last 14 years in Frankfurt and would of thought that he was there more than 30-40 times. “Coming back to see Tez was an exciting feeling not seeing number 23 on the court just felt different to me being in the arena. I last seen him over the summer in June”, said Jermale Jones.

Jones made the trip from Switzerland while Tez made the longer trek from Alabama. It had been some time since they had last seen each other. How do you congratulate a very good friend after such an illustrious career overseas? “I congratulated him with words from my heart and showing up for his jersey retirement”, stated Jermale Jones. Jones had a seat court side in the vicinity of where Tez and his wife were sitting. He was lucky to have a rare court side seat on this precious day. I can bet that many would have liked to have been sitting where he was. The jersey retirement was done very nicely by the Fraport Skyliners organization. It didn´t have the hoopla of the NBA and their weren´t any lavish gifts, but for an overseas production, it was made very professionally and direct from the heart. A well produced 60 second video clip was shown and Skyliners CEO Gunnar Wobke said parting words to Tez. Tez was never a guy that would give a 10 minute interview after a game, I should know since he had conducted more than a 100 post game interviews with me. He was one of those players that could sparkle with less words. His parting words were well chosen and came form the heart for the Skyliners organization, fans and for his loyal wife. When his #23 slowly was raised to the rafters, every single person in the arena was in their own world remembering those special moments that Tez had carved for 14 seasons including his good friend Jermale. “All I could think about was his hard work, dedication, and love for the Skyliners”, added Jermale Jones. Tez was one of those rare players that played with heart and showed his love for everyone off the court. When was this ability of having that special heart established in his life? “ It’s all about how you were raised. Sometimes it grows later but if you want to do something you start early to make it happen and have the right people around you especially when it comes to support”, commented Jermale Jones.

The jersey retirement was only the second one after Pascal Roller in the 24 year history of the Fraport Skyliners. It is something that doesn´t happen so often and honestly in today´s age might not happen again. If it does happen again then it probably will take longer than between the 12 years between Roller and Robertson. In today´s sports world, it´s a business and guys are always going where there is the most money. I can´t ever see another American staying this long with the Fraport Skyliners. So where does the legacy of Tez stand? There were players that had better seasons than him, but stayed only one season like a Jordan Theodore or Justin Cobbs, but when talking about doing it great every season for 14 years, there was never a player that was better than Tez. He is without a doubt the greatest player in the history of the Fraport Skyliners. “For me his legacy stands alone. 14 strong years with one club. The passion, energy and the no fear mentality, the leadership he brought to the team is unmatched”, warned Jermale Jones. Every fan will remember Tez in their special own way. “The fans will remember Tez as being their fighter & their captain. His sense of humor to everyone was always different and made people feel so comfortable being around him”, expressed Jermale Jones. Jones played 6 seasons in Germany and also has stamps in his passport from places like Luxemburg, Romania, Thailand and Iraq had to return back to Switzerland on Monday as he only had had 1 day off. Like Tez he has grinded out a long career overseas and currently is playing his 13th season. Wouldn´t it be great to play as long as Tez did or even longer? “It would be nice to do the same and I’m pushing for a few more years”, smiled Jermale Jones. How could he sum up the incredible day from Tez´s and his stand point? “I think he enjoyed all the support from the fans and the organization that put this together to make the Tez Day special. It was an amazing day. For me with one word I can say emotional”, stressed Jermale Jones. Emotional was the perfect word as everybody felt something on this day.