Josh Ajayi (201-F-1996, college: USA, agency: Players Group) is a 27 year old 201cm forward from El Monte, California that has the American/Nigerian citizenship and is playing with German Pro A team Fraport Skyliners. He began the season with Balikesir Buyuksehir Belediyespor (Turkey-TBL) averaging 14.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 55.6%, 3FGP: 34.6%, FT: 66.7%. Last season he played with Saint Chamond Basket Valle du Gier (France-ProB) averaging 11.2ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 20.5%, FT: 77.5%. Two seasons ago he played with Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (France-ProB) averaging 7.8ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 62.1%. He played his rookie season with Hermine Nantes Atlantique (France-ProB) averaging 10.8ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 75.3%. He began his basketball career at San Gabriel Academy and then played at the University of South Alabama (NCAA) from 2016-2020 playing a total of 123 games. He averaged 13/6 in his 4 year career and 15/7 in his last 2 years. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Josh for talking to germanhoops.com. At first glance, you don´t look like the average pro basketball player with your big presence. Your related to body builder Victor Richards. Do you ever wonder where you might be today had you followed his path?

Yes I think about it a lot actually. I love working out & training in the gym so I can definitely see myself doing body building if I didn’t have a passion for basketball.

After playing in Turkey this season, you now have taken a new challenge in Germany with the Fraport Skyliners. What have been the biggest differences in styles between the leagues TBL and Pro A?

From what I have observed so far, Pro A is more competitive & team oriented. In Turkey, there are only 2 Americans/imports allowed on the court per team so that pretty much means most Americans that come in have to average big numbers. It’s also very easy for imports to get cut if they’re underperforming in Turkey so there can be quite some pressure on you.

The Fraport Skyliners are a team that moved down and want to get back up to the top. The team is very young. What has been your early impression of the club? Do you feel that desire to move right back up to the BBL?

I love the fact that the team is young, I’m sure the biggest concern from people outside looking in or even the coaching staff may be the lack of experience, but nonetheless I think it shows that a young team can be successful at a high level when we have all the right pieces & mentality from all the players. I have a lot of respect for the club seeing that it has a very rich history in the BBL. I definitely feel the desire from all the players on the team as well as the coaching staff to move back up to the BBL and I think we have what it takes to do so.

So far you have been used delicately playing a few minutes against PS Karlsruhe and not playing against Giessen. How tough has been being in a new team and not playing? How do you mentally come to terms with that?

It’s always difficult for a player to come in in the middle of the season, especially in a team like this that has already been winning. My goal is to be able to impact winning and to be able to add on to the success that the club has been having. Even though I would have liked to play, I understand that I still need some time to get adapted to the offense and the team as well as to catch my rhythm & be in game shape, so I understood the coaches decision in not letting me play as much. It’s part of being a professional. Thankfully, this little fiba break we have was the perfect time for me to come so I can have some time to get back into Game shape and learn how to play with the guys as well as the offense.

You could be a very instrumental part of the team later in the playoffs when one has to battle against more physical teams. How much is physicality a part of your game?

Physicality is a big part of my game, when I was playing in college, I led the league in field-goal percentage for the last two years of my career so I take pride in being an efficient and physical player.

The team has many talented players, but lacking that one guy that will always take over when needed. I feel kevin Mcclain could be that guy. You played against him in France. Can he become that player down the stretch of the season?

Unfortunately he had a tough injury that led him to take a year off, and I understand how injuries can affect a players confidence and mentality, but I have a lot of respect & confidence in his game and I know that down the stretch he’s going to catch his stride when it’s needed the most. I know we’re going to be a very lethal duo.

You have compared your game to a Draymond Greene. Frankfurt is already a top defensive team in the pro A. Do you feel you could be the difference defensively between the team moving up and not?

I actually take back that comparison to Draymond, I’m actually not really a fan of his game but if I was to honestly compare my playing style, I would say it’s a mix of Zion Williams & Lebron James. I take pride in being a defensive player & being able to guard all 5 positions and I know that can definitely help us down the stretch in the playoffs.

Your also a player that can score and rebound, but what other strengths does your game have?

I think what may surprise people about my skillset is my guard & passing skills. I consider myself to be a very versatile player for my size especially because I have played the 3,4 & 5 in my professional career. I can also shoot the ball pretty well so I’d like to think that I’m a danger anywhere you put me on the court.

Your three pointer continues to be a work in progress. How ambitious are you to wanting to become a more consistent three point shooter?

That’s definitely something that I want to be a staple in my game. I think for me, being a consistent 3 point shooter is mainly about confidence because I work on my shot a lot & I know I´m capable.

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

My decision making & my 3 point shot are the biggest things I’ve been working on.

You began the season with Balikesir Buyuksehir Belediyespor (Turkey-TBL) averaging 14.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 55.6%, 3FGP: 34.6%, FT: 66.7%. You put up really solid stats. Why was your stay so short there?

Unfortunately I pulled my hamstring when I was arguably playing my best basketball. That led me to being cut from the team & ending my time in turkey prematurely.

You played your first 3 pro seasons in France in the pro B. The Pro B is a second division on the rise. How would you compare the style, talent and competitive level compared to the German pro A?

I have a lot of respect for Pro B in France. It is arguably one of the most competitive second divisions in Europe. It is definitely the most physical and athletic second division out there. I think playing in that type of physicality & competitiveness has prepared me for any type of physical play that I will have to experience moving forward. German Pro A has the same type of competitiveness so I’m excited to experience that.

Last season you played with Saint Chamond Basket Valle du Gier (France-ProB) averaging 11.2ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 20.5%, FT: 77.5%. How do you feel did your game grow in France in the 3 years?

I learned how to play the European style of play and especially the French physical style of play. I really embraced that physical style of play during my time in France

Two years ago you played with Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (France-ProB) averaging 7.8ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 62.1%. You were part of a title team. What memories will you always have playing for the well known organization Sluc Nancy?

It was a very tough but memorable experience. I had 2 tough injuries that ended up me being cut from the team. Although I was cut, I was still a practice player when I was back healthy & was training with the team so I appreciate the club for keeping me with them till the end of the season.

You played your rookie season with Hermine Nantes Atlantique (France-ProB) averaging 10.8ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 75.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Learning how to adapt in a new environment and new play style was the biggest thing for me. A lot of Americans and college players who come overseas for the first time don’t understand that Europe has a specific style of play and it’s nothing like America so I had to learn how to play accordingly.

You played at the University of South Alabama from 2016-2020 averaging 13/6 in your 4 years and 15/7 in your last 2 years. What kind of player were you going in and what player were you when you left?

I was a lot bigger than I am now when I first got into college. I had to lose a lot of weight my first year & even ended up going vegan because of that. I was very raw but still had to polish my skillset. I had to learn to embrace my physicality & really use my physical abilities to their potential. I came out a lot more polished, physical & a better overall IQ of the game.

You had many great games in the NCAA like 30 points against S Mississippi or 26 points against Appalachian State. What was your fondest moment on the court?

My fondest moment was playing in the sunbelt tournament every year with my guys. It was always a competitive & amazing experience.

How did head coaches Matt Graves and Richie Riley groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Those two coaches had distinct personalities and were quite actually polar opposites. Coach Riley helped me push myself to more than I thought I was capable & I can confidently say, my last two years with him was the toughest I’ve ever had to work, basketball wise. He was a big fan of working hard & discipline so he instilled that into me.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Thrae Mitchell

Me every time of course 😉 but Thrae was probably one of the best defenders I’ve ever had to go up against. He was with me at South Alabama all 5 years

One of the toughest players that you ever faced in the NCAA was Isaac Okoro. Who were some others?

BJ Johnson was a very tough player, I think he’s somewhere overseas now playing well. Rajon Tucker was also a very tough player. I believe he’s somewhere in the ACB now & was in the NBA for a little while. There was a lot of players that I’m sure I’m forgetting

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Thrae Mitchel, Andre Fox, Nick Stover, Herb Mcgee, Kevin Morris

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

Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Shaq, Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, magic Johnson, Paul George, T-Mac

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James of course

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

No I haven´t

Thanks Ife for the chat.

The 80´s was such a wonderful time for NBA basketball. Especially now one likes to look back at the golden age simply because now how the NBA has changed to more a scoring league which was best showcased recently at the allstar game where one side scored 200 points. Now the NBA is a place where money as always rules the business and it´s purely entertainment. Back in the day the league was fun to watch, because players actually played defense and was filled with players that today are remembered as legends. As a Bostonian native, the Boston Celtics were my team and Larry Bird is my GOAT today no matter what the younger generation thinks. Time flies and these great players aren´t getting any younger either. It is always sad to hear when one of those childhood memories passes away. Recently Robert Reid who played 13 seasons in the NBA and 10 for the Houston Rockets died at only the age of 68 due to cancer. Right away my memories of my childhood popped up in my head as quickly as Luka Doncic can score an uncharachteristic basket. As a kid, I collected autographs in Boston and hung around hotels like if they were my private playground. In those days, you could call up the hotel and they actually told you if a team was staying there. During the 1981 finals against the Celtics, the Rockets lived 2 minutes away by foot from Government center where the Celtics held their parades after winning the title. Back in 1981, the Boston Celtics faced the Houston Rockets and this was my first NBA team I got. Back then the finals were in early May, so I drove to Boston right after grade school from the suburbs with my reliable mom as my chauffeur. I don´t remember my actual face to face meeting with Robert Reid, but actually standing face to face with NBA MVP Moses Malone. The guy towered over me like the Hancock building did over the old Hancock building in Boston. But I do remember getting Reid´s autograph in 1981, and I would get Reid´s autograph again 3 seasons later after he returned out of retirement once the Rockets drafted highly touted center Ralph Sampson. This time they lived in a different hotel only a 10 minute walk from Boston Garden. This time I had another encounter with a large man, a 7 footer known as Ralph Sampson. I remember getting Robert Reid´s autograph both times and I remember him having such a legible autograph simply beautiful to recognize even 40 years later. Unfortunately my large autograph collection is still in Boston and with hopes of taking a screen shot wasn´t successful, because my brother couldn´t find it as we did face time. Those 2 encounters with the Houston Rockets in 1981 and 1984 seem like yesterday. Oh how much I would love to be beamed back to those 2 times.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber got Tomjanovic´s autograph during the 1981 finals as it would be his last before retiring an dlater winning 2 NBA titles with Houston as coach

Moses Malone autograph from 1981 finals in Boston

Robert Reid was born on August 30,1955 in Atlanta, Georgia, but grew up in Texas and attended Samuel Clemens high school. He then attended St Mary´s (Texas) from 1973-1977. He was drafted in 1977 by Houston in the second round at #40. He played most of his career with the Houston Rockets and even sat out a year during the 1982-1983 season after the club had traded Moses Malone to the 76ers. He returned back to Houston for the 1983-1984 season after the club drafted Ralph Sampson with the #1 pick. He had his best days with the Rockets playing 10 seasons reaching 2 NBA finals and averaged double figures in scoring in 7 seasons. His most memorable moments with the Rockets was scoring 27 points in game 1 of the 1981 finals against Boston and in 1986 hitting a three to tie game 5 against the Lakers in the Western Conference final which helped them reach the final against Boston again. After his Houston days, he also suited up for teams like Charlotte, Portland and Philadelphia. In the 1988-1989 season he would average 14,7ppg his last time showing his averaging in double figures during a season. He finished his 13 year NBA career averaging 11,4ppg, 4,5rpg and 2,7apg and amassed 10,448 career points, 4,168 career rebounds, and 2,500 career assists. He then had experience as a coach coaching clubs like the Yakima Sun Kings, Texas Rim Rockers, Lakeland Blue Ducks and Debreceni Vadkakasok. He also held basketball clinics for kids in several countries like India.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber getting Ralph Sampson´s autograph before a game in Boston in 1984

I never had the pleasure of knowing Robert Reid personally, but former professional player Marcus Session (198-F-1981, college: St.Mary’s, TX) did. Session never played in Europe even if he was close signing with TV Langen, but played the game he loved in countries like China, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Korea, Mexico and Qatar. He also played in the ABA and participated in an NBA mini-camp with the San Antonio Spurs. I actually was on vacation and remember meeting Marcus in 2009 in Spain at Malaga airport where he had a work out with ACB team Malaga. When I woke up Wednesday morning, I heard first about the death of Robert Reid through Session´s Facebook page and was taken by his heart felt words. “Robert Reid was like a mentor, always cheerful and encouraging every time we spoke as we kept in touch over the last 20 years. My condolences to your family. Rest well Rattler”. It was only logical that I get in touch with Marcus Session and get the whole low down on Robert Reid. After 7 years of playing the game he loved, Session decided to start life after playing and adjusted pretty well. It´s always a plus when your prepared after you retire, because he had made plans during his last season of playing. “I knew I wanted to be a high school basketball coach, so I began my teacher certification program online while playing my last year. Fast forward to today, I am currently a lawyer who has been a school administrator as well. Basketball helped me to accumulate the work ethic necessary for getting things done that I wanted to get done. Working as a school administrator and raising a baby girl who is now five years old, while going to law school at night, for example. I had to multitask basketball and life for 30 plus years”, stressed Marcus Session. Having that encounter with a NBA player happens, the way I have had over 20 years, but having that special relationship and connection to an NBA player for 20 years is rare, but it does happen. Marcus Session had that incredible luck which began at St Mary´s (Texas) where he played ball just like Reid did. “I met Robert Reid at an alumni event at St. Mary’s university in 2003. We would always talk at these events, but it wasn’t until after I left St. Mary’s in 2004 and ran Into Robert at a school event, we were both asked to speak at, is when we became more personal with one another. We exchanged contact information at this event and spoke and hung out occasionally over the next 19 years. When I heard of his passing, I was with a friend who informed me. I immediately became saddened. I understand the path of life is finite for us all, but I still had to reflect on the fact the world lost a great person who definitely left it a better place”, said Marcus Session. When someone impacts your life, one never forgets the first time when you met that person and for Session, it is an incredible moment that seems as vivid today as it did in 2003. “The first meeting after a game, my senior year at St. Mary’s, I remember a teammate telling me, “Hey look, that’s Robert Reid,” and I glazed across the room and remember thinking, “Oh that’s one of the guys my dad always used to talk about” (LOL). The first conversation was about the game we had just played. He gave me some pointers on the court and was just congratulatory. I was thinking to myself, “He didn’t have to take all that time to speak with me,” but getting to know him later, I came to find that he was 100% vested in all things St. Mary’s and took it as an honor to speak with one of the younger current players. This is what I will never forget about him. You can tell he still had that basketball ego and killer instinct of a player, but he was still very humble”, commented Marcus Session.

Ralph Sampson on route to team bus in Boston in 1984

Robert Reid had his heyday in the NBA from 1977-1988 with the Houston Rockets and still played a few years after that before retiring. Marcus Session was born in 1981 and most likely didn´t see him play live or on TV, during his first years, but knew about his legacy because of his pops. “, I knew who he was and about his legacy as a player because my father would talk about him and how he played pickup basketball with him around the city (Houston), before I was born. Later, as a basketball fan trying to make middle and high school teams, I investigated the history of the game more and found that he was one of those X-factor type players that made the difference between winning and losing”, added Marcus Session. So often players will obviously emulate those players that play their position, but every now and then a player will do that with a guy that doesn´t even play his position. “As a mentor he was always someone I could get basketball advice from, whether as a player, or later as a coach. He was always open and receptive and gave exceptional feedback, even feedback you may not anticipate. He was a true gem and he really helped me to understand the politics of the game. Even in another position, and playing in different leagues around the world, some things in basketball are just universal, for instance, the business side. He helped me to understand them and address the bottom line with every organization I played for. This helped me to adjust when things did not go my way contractually (not getting paid on time, contractual liabilities, etc.). He just helped me understand life and the milestones that come with it. For example, a conversation we had before I got married in 2008. I was still playing basketball, and we had a talk about dealing with certain things that come along with playing while still trying to be a family man. It was a long and real conversation, but a necessary one. It still impacts how I prioritize my private life, even today. I wouldn’t have had the awareness needed to navigate those situations without Mr. Robert Reid”, expressed Marcus Session. Robert Reid was a great player, but where does his legacy in the NBA stand today? He played for some great Rockets teams and had legendary centers to whom he could flick the ball to in the post with Moses Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Ralph Sampson. Wasn´t he a bit in the shadow of these great players? “I would classify his legacy, as a player, as the X-factor guy on the roster. The guy who, without him and his consistent efforts on the court, the team doesn’t win. The franchise knew what they were going to get from him every night and he capitalized on that role to help the rockets advance towards the finals. Robert Reid was a pivotal factor in helping to boost the careers of the hall of fame centers you mentioned. He made their jobs just a tad bit easier”, said Marcus Session. I will never forget Robert Reid as a player that enriched my childhood in the 80´s. R.I.P Robert Reid.

Zaccheus Darko-Kelly (198-G-1997, college: Providence, MT) is a 26 year old 198cm guard that is playing his third professional season and first with the Tigers Tuebingen averaging 6,1ppg and 2,1rpg. Last season he played with PAOK Thessaloniki (Greece-GBL) averaging 4.3ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.7apg and 3.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.0apg,in the BCL.He played his rookie season with the Helsinki Seagulls (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 10.8ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 62.2%, 3PT: 43.7%, FT: 78.1%. He began his basketball career with Great Falls High School and then played 2 seasons with the University of Montana Western (NAIA) averaging 8.6ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 55.5%, 3PT: 46.4%, FT: 79.3% and in his second season averaged 15.4ppg, 6.6rpg, 2.9apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 42.8%, FT: 78.6%. He then played 2 seasons with the University of Providence (NAIA) averaging 22.6ppg, 7.9rpg, 5.7apg, 1.4bpg, 2.3spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 42.5%, FT: 79.1% and in his second season averaged 18.4ppg, 9.4rpg, 5.2apg, 1.3bpg, 1.5spg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 90.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Zaccheus for talking to germanhoops.com.Welcome back to Germany and signing with the Tigers Tuebingen. Did you have some second thoughts coming back to Germany after your bad luck with Ludwigsburg?

No second thoughts. My first time in Germany I simply wasn’t ready to compete at that level. Now I am confident that I belong in this league.

The Tigers Tuebingen are back in the easyCredit BBL. What were the main reasons for joining them? I can imagine the coach Danny Jansson and the team success were a big reason for your decision?

I was excited to join this team because they are a young and hungry team looking to make some noise in the BBL. It’s a great group of guys that are skilled and unselfish. Coach Danny is great along with his staff so it wasn’t a hard decision.

How excited are you to play in the easyCredit BBL now after not being able to 2 years ago. Do you feel pressure after your tough season in Greece and are you 100% ready?

I don’t really feel any pressure. My job is to do whatever I can to help our team be successful and I’m confident in my ability to do that. By the time the regular season comes around I believe I will be 100% back to normal.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 198cm guard/forward that can really fill up the stat sheet. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I’m not really sure what player I play like at the moment. I see myself as a player that can do a little bit of every playing positions 1-3.

The first name that pops up for me is Larry Bird. He is my Goat. Are you a modern day Larry Bird?

Never heard that one before! I’d have to politely reject that comparison haha.

Despite being so versatile, what besides that would you consider being your biggest strength?

I think being unselfish and doing whatever it takes to win. Making extra passes, diving on the floor etc. I just want to win so I think that makes me a valuable teammate.

You’re an incredible shooter that has shot over 40% in the NAIA and Finland. What kind of a shooter do you want to become down he road and is the 90/50/40 plateau a big goal?

I want to become a shooter that is dangerous from all spots on the floor. Mid range, catch and shoot, shooting off the dribble or on the move. Just a threat from anywhere. I believe I’ve improved every year. 90/50/40 would be incredible. I would definitely strive for that.

Your also a very ambitious defender. How would you describe yourself as a defender now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I would describe myself as long and athletic on the defensive end. I believe I have a high ceiling when it comes to defending. As a pro I feel like I’ve gotten better year by year. Still I have much room to improve and I’d like to get to a point where I can guard multiple positions at a high level.

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

I think I’m trying to improve all areas of my game. But important ones right now are defense and being the ball handler in pick and roll. After my injury I’m trying to return to a good level of defensive ability. Being able to play pick and roll will help our team be more versatile.

Last season you played for PAOK Thessaloniki (Greece-GBL) and played only 6 games. How tough was it suffering an injury and what did you learn about yourself as a player and man?

The injury was pretty tough. Like you said I really was only starting and I was beginning to feel comfortable with the team. I learned that if I could come back from that that I can damn near do anything. I always thought I was resilient but I really found out how much.

You began your rookie season in Germany with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. What do you believe didn’t work out for you?

I just don’t think I was ready for that level. As simple as that. Coach Patrick saw that and I don’t blame him for the decision. He’s a great coach and he knows what it takes to win at a high level.

You then joined the Helsinki Seagulls (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 40 games averaging 10.8ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 62.2%, 3PT: 43.7%, FT: 78.1% and won a title. In the last years this club has groomed future BBL players. What is so special about the organization?

I believe the club led by Coach Jussi and Coach Vesa, at the time I was there, really just gave me an introduction to professional basketball. I learned so much that has helped me to this day. They know the game really well and are able to instill that knowledge into their players.

How vital was head coach Jussi Laakso for you being able to have your breakout season overseas?

It was huge! Coach Jussi really just believed in me and my game. He was also patient with me considering I had much to learn as a professional.

You played with 2 Finish legends with Shawn Huff and Petteri Koponen. What did you appreciate most about their games and do you have a special story concerning one of them?

It was really cool to be able to play with them. Great players with so much experience at the highest levels of European basketball. I just tried to learn as much as I could from them as I possibly could. Playing with them was so easy because of their high IQ’s on the court and obviously their talent. I have a lot of good stories with getting to be around them off the court. But one that comes to mind right away was seeing Petteri make 75 or 76 threes in a row one day in practice.

You played NBA Summer League in 2021 with Toronto. What kind of an experience was it for you coming from the NAIA and being able to play on the big stage. What was your fondest moment and did you have a cool experience with a player or coach that you will never forget?

Playing in summer league was a great experience. Not too many NAIA players get to do that so I was just super grateful for the opportunity. I think my fondest memory was just stepping on the court for the first time. Great feeling. Just being able to chop it up with Nick Nurse and Earl Watson was pretty cool.

You were teammates with Ish Wainwright. He began his rookie season in the German Pro A after averaging 5,0ppg in his last season at Baylor. How inspiring is his NBA journey? If someone had told you in the summer of 2021 that he would reach the NBA and stick what would you have thought?

His story is pretty inspiring considering he started in Europe and eventually was able to land an NBA contract. I think as an overseas player that is what everyone dreams of. If someone would have told me that I would have said why not? He’s a hell of a player and an even better person so I’m not surprised at all.

How big was your chip then in Las Vegas and how big is it now? Did they see quickly that NAIA players can play?

I’ve always had a pretty big chip since I was growing up. Always felt like there was doubters about my game. I didn’t get as much of a chance in summer league as I had hoped for whatever reason. But I believe that everywhere I’ve gone in Europe I’ve been able to show that no matter what level of college you play, hoop is hoop.

You had a stellar career at the University of Montana Western (NAIA). How did your game grow there?

I think it was just the competitive environment that was there at the time. I had a lot of great teammates that turned into lifelong friends. We were always competing in pick up and one on one. Just being close with my teammates and us pushing each other helped me get better and better.

You had so many great games there especially in your second season. What was your fondest moment there?

I think what I was most proud of that season was that we set the record for most wins in a season and made it to the elite 8. We went toe to toe with the eventual champions and were a couple points from advancing. It was a special group and I will always cherish those times.

You then played at the University of Providence (NAIA) averaging 22.6ppg, 7.9rpg, 5.7apg, 1.4bpg, 2.3spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 42.5%, FT: 79.1% and as a senior 18.4ppg, 9.4rpg, 5.2apg, 1.3bpg, 1.5spg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 90.5%. You did win the Frontier conference title beating Carroll College, but how tough was COVID getting in the way?

My junior year we were able to play in the national tournament because it was cancelled due to covid and you really felt for the seniors. My senior year there was no fans allowed so I really didn’t get to play in front of family and friends one last time.

Your junior season was incredible. You had 2 triple doubles against Rocky Mountain and Montana-West. Was one more enjoyable then the other?

I really wasn’t trying to get a triple double in either, but it was pretty cool to see that it happened.

How did head coach Steve Keller groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Keller was constantly pushing me to get better and be better. He never let me get complacent. I believe that really helped me elevate my game and contributed to my work ethic. As a pro you are constantly playing really good players and if you are always trying to improve by getting better, you will be able to compete and be successful.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Brandon Cotton? Ok so you had a 20 cm advantage, but I’m sure he was feisty.

I definitely won most of our games but B definitely got some too. He might disagree but that’s my story and I’m sticking to it. He is one of the hardest workers and most competitive people I know. That’s my brother. There’s a lot of clubs in Europe that could use him!

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

I’ve played against NBA guys in pick up or pro ams but no one I ever played in college made it to the NBA. Some made it to the g league. Best player I played in my Pre draft workouts was Jose Alvarado. Quickest hands I’ve ever seen.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I’ll just do professional teammates. I could just name the raptors teammates but I’ll do my overseas teammates.

Jalen Riley
Petteri Koponen
Jaylen Hands
Shawn Huff
Nate Renfro

Honorable mention
Yannick Franke

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

LeBron
MJ
Kobe
Kareem

I can imagine Lebron is your GOAT. Why is he that over Jordan or even Bird?

To me he’s just the greatest all around player. Things he’s done on the court and is still doing is incredible.

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

I did not. I’ve only seen the original and that is a great movie. To me you really take a chance making the sequel to a classic and more often than not it doesn’t work out.

Thanks Zaccheus for the chat.

In December 2010, the BBL season of Phoenix Hagen was becoming a disaster and it wasn´t even Christmas yet as every true Phoenix fan was hoping for some Santa Claus miracle, but that didn´t happen. Instead a famous name flashed over the Hagen airwaves and was plastered all over Hagen papers and for any non basketball fan they may have thought that THE Michael Jordan, the famous ex Chicago Bull was coming out of retirement. However instead it was ex Pennslyvania (NCAA) standout and veteran professional basketball player Michael Hakim Jordan that arrived in Hagen as the predicted season savior. At first it seemed like the Philadelphia native who had the widest and most appealing smile that one ever could witness from a player that boasted the perfect tooth paste commercial white teeth was that good luck charm as he helped the club rebound from their 3-10 record reeling off three wins in a row against TBB Trier, Braunschweig and Giessen who he disposed of himself with a buzzer beater. However then the real drudgery of winter arrived where the dark and grey Hagen made days seem extra longer and seem for some like their own private hell which made the next huge losing streak seem unbearable as the club lost 8 games in a row and suddenly there were new rifts within the club concerning Jordan and Chase Griffin and the season became more and more in jeopardy. Then came one of the first season climaxes in Frankfurt which would forever be remembered in German basketball you tube history. It was a rather warm March day in Frankfurt as the recent snow had melted and first flowers were blooming and Phoenix Hagen were guests against the Deutsche Bank Skyliners. Phoenix Hagen was playing for their lives while the Frankfurt club was on their way to reaching the BBL final and losing a hard fought 5 game final series against Bamberg. Phoenix Hagen was without Jordan who was injured and had to watch the game from the sidelines. At halftime Phoenix Hagen was down 44-27 and before it was time for the halftime analysis from head coach Ingo Fryer, it was Jordan that entered the dressing room with a sneer and growl about to let loose and preceded to give his own movie like tirade that was Oscar worthy and could have been his entrance to the acting world had the right Hollywood producer only gotten hold of the video. That season the documentary Phoenix In Der Asche was being made which portrayed the Phoenix Hagen season and cameras were always around. Not only did Jordan chew out his teammates in fine fashion, but knowing the undeniable passion and drive to always want to win that teammate Quinto Pryor had, one was just waiting for him to follow Jordan and give his two cents. Instead Pryor just listened and soaked in the truth that Jordan was saying. There were enough times in Pryor´s career where he showed his presence on the bench with discreet tantrums, but how could he ever forget this Jordan moment? “That was a tough year but we expected it to be tough. It was just so much more going on and having the cameras document everything made it much more difficult. That tirade was the truth and a defining moment in the documentary. It felt like teams didn’t respect us once the ball tipped. I just remember every guy in the locker room being down. We were all tired of being in that situation. I think it needed to be said”, stressed Quentin Pryor (193-G/F-1983, college: Morehead St.). The club was whipped by Frankfurt which was their ninth loss in a row at that time, but somehow found a sweet spot with the basketball God finishing the season 3-5 and squeaking out a win In Duesseldorf and winning against Ludwigsburg and Paderborn that saved their season and let them remain in the BBL. This was just one exciting experience that Pryor had in his interesting seven year professional career in which he was a true warrior that played the game the way it should be played.

But before Pryor could embark on a professional basketball career, he had to pay his dues at the collegiate level and like many he didn´t start at the top, but at the bottom having to prove himself in order to eventually reach the NCAA level. The American was born on September 26th 1983 in Europa, Mississippi, but grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, but after high school returned back to the south and played at Holmes Community College in Goodman, Mississippi. After getting his college type experience with the Bull Dogs, he returned back to Memphis and played at Jackson State Community College. It was hear that Pryor developed his early like warrior like mentality where nothing was served to him on a silver platter, but he had to fight for everything which helped him finally reach the NCAA level in 2005 with Morehead State. “Going to Jackson State CC was the best decision basketball wise that I made. My coach (Deron Hines) was the first coach that was brutally honest with me. He helped me see that I had another level. We were a national top 10 JUCO program that just played the right way. We didn’t care about scoring just winning. I’ve always had that mentality. For me, it was my way out. My mom was in a car wreck when I was younger and was unable to work ever since that moment. I wanted to make sure that my family would be taken care of. So every game I went out and played with every ounce of energy I had in me. Coaches shouldn’t have to coach you to play hard if ball is life”, stressed Quentin Pryor. The American played his last two years of college ball at Morehead State playing in the Ohio Valley conference, but the team literally stunk, but he proved he could be a versatile and consistent performer at the NCAA level. As a junior he played 25 games averaging 10.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.7apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 46.6%, 3FGP: 40.3%, FT: 68.7% and as a senior played 30 games averaging 11.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3Pts: 36.8%, FT: 71.7%. These two years were vital in him being able to jump from the NCAA level to the professional ranks. “I grew tremendously in this time. I tried to live in the gym especially when I sat out my first year due to my wrist injury. Being tabbed as the captain and leader of the team that last season was a great experience. My fondest memory was just being a part the team that helped turn around the fortunes of the program. My first year playing, we were 4-23. My senior year we finished 12 -16. We had a losing record but we were vastly improved and for a month we were first in our conference”, added Quentin Pryor. He lists Rudy Gay as his toughest foe at the NCAA level and also knows that without head coach Donnie Tyndall, his road to becoming a professional could have been more difficult. “Coach Tyndall challenged me to give my best every day. He wanted and demanded perfection. He put a lot of pressure on me to lead the team. He basically taught me how to focus on tendencies of players. The things that he taught me on the defensive end, I carried overseas with me”, warned Quentin Pryor.

Pryor decided to embark on a professional career in 2007 and his route wasn´t the NBA or D-League, but Europe. In the fall of 2007 the American landed in Germany with FC Schalke 04 that is better known for it´s football and inability to win titles than their basketball program. He didn´t win any titles in his rookie season overseas, but he quickly found a groove and found respect from his peers on account of his stellar game and was able to make the adjustment on the court even if is his first memory of Germany at the airport almost had him turning around. “That was a fun year because I played with two guys (Matt Witt and Alonzo Hird) that were my rivals in college. It made the adjustment a little bit easy. When I got off the plane. It was not what I expected and I wasn’t prepared for it. I honestly wanted to get a ticket back home once I walked through airport”, expressed Quentin Pryor. In his rookie season he played 29 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.2apg, Steals-1 (2.5spg), FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 75.2%. He showed that he could be an offensive weapon, but at the same a guy that could help in all areas of the court. He wasn´t one dimensional either in that he went to work on the offensive end and didn´t take a back seat on the defensive end, but actually belonged to the best defenders in the German second Bundesliga and defense would become a huge part of his arsenal that allowed him to shine later in the BBL. He also saw that he had the game for a successful long career if he continued to work hard and brought the effort. He also saw how quickly a career could end as certain circumstances whatever they may can affect a career to continue for a while or end as it did with his teammate Torris Bright. “Playing with Torris Bright was great. I remember watching him at LSU. He was a killer. Some people’s careers don’t pan out as planned and he was one. I was lucky to get my first year completed. I was on the cusp of being sent home until the first game of the season due my lack of adjustment. I came out the very first game and had 28. That let me know that I had what it took to be a professional”, warned Quentin Pryor.

His enthusiastic and all around game got the attention of Phoenix Hagen head coach Ingo Freyer and Pryor was signed in 2008 and he would spend three enjoyable years helping the team move up to the BBL in 2009 and then playing two seasons in an up and coming rising league called the BBL. “Growing wise as a person, yes, these were the nicest years. For me Hagen became my home away from home. My son basically grew up there and my daughter was conceived there. I made significant strides in my game at Hagen. I had some great times on and off the court in Hagen. By far the best fans ever. I also learned the business side of basketball in Hagen as well”, warned Quentin Pryor. In his first season 2008-2009, he joined a talented team that didn´t have any real stars or so many imports, but talented guys like Chase Griffin, Zach Freeman and Aaron Fleetwood and the BBL veteran German Bernd Kruel as well as many German players that understood their roles. The club just functioned well together and were a team that understood how to get the job done. As did Pryor who had another strong German Pro A season being able to improve his scoring average over his rookie season and continued to shoot near 40% from outside and continued to belong to the best defenders that the Pro A had to offer. The American played 30 games averaging 14.7ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 75.2%. “That first season was very magical. Every guy on that team played for each other. We had one goal and that was get to the BBL. It was quite a few memories that year. If I could go back in time, it would be to that season. The wins against Bayreuth, Karlsruhe on the road, and the last game of the season against Bremen. I’ve only played in one game that could match the atmosphere in Hagen in the game against Bremen. That place was electric”, stressed Quentin Pryor. Pryor may not have been a rookie anymore, but Fraport Skyliner lifer Quantez Robertson was and over the years would quickly develop into one of the BBL´s best defenders. It was always a battle when they were both on the court. “He has Kawhi Leonard’s personality. The dude doesn’t say much but he locks in on the defensive end. Every time you see him, you have to be on your A game. At that time he was rising. I think everyone was still saying McElroy but Robertson was coming for the number #1 spot”, warned Quentin Pryor.

In his second season was where he experienced growing pains as it was the time where the club struggled all season long and saved themselves at the end while everything was being documented with the Phoenix In Der Asche Documentary. It was just one of those seasons where nothing really fell in place for Phoenix Hagen, but that is part of the game as not everything you touch turns to gold. However their successful experience was staying in the league and enabling their fans to enjoy BBL basketball for another season. In that season he played 33 games averaging 8.8ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 72.9%. In his last season with Phoenix Hagen in 2010-2011 he would help the club to a very respectable 12th position. This club also had more talent than in the past with the likes of Jacob Burtschi, Mark Dorris, David Bell and Zygimantas Jonusas. The American upped his play as well from his sophomore slump playing 33 games averaging 11.3ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.2apg, Steals-5 (1.5spg), FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 75.3%. He scored in double figures in 19 games including 20 points or more in four games and had five steals a piece in three games. He also had his biggest wins in the German BBL against Bamberg and Alba Berlin showing that the league was becoming more competitive than ever as only a year earlier one would never have seen a team of a Phoenix Hagen being able to upset a major powerhouse. “They were great wins but definitely not close to the biggest. Those wins showed how much we had matured and learned from the season before”, added Quentin Pryor. After three years with a team is often the time when a player leaves or becomes a lifer. In 2011, Robertson had completed his second season in Frankfurt and would stay until retiring in 2023. However the basketball leaf turned differently for Pryor as he wouldn´t become a Phoenix Hagen lifer. “I would have loved to stay in Hagen but that just wasn’t the plan. I was a little hurt because I played a big part in helping them get to the BBL and staying in the BBL. I understood that at the end of the day basketball is still a business. They made a business decision for the organization and I can’t complain about that”, stressed Quentin Pryor. His three years were a great time and he played with many great players, but even from a pool of these teammates with Chase Griffin, David Bell, Jacob Burtschi, John Turek, Mark Dorris or Michael Jordan, he couldn´t name a favorite. “All those guys were great. I enjoyed playing with every single one of them. Everyone brought something different to the table. I learned a lot from each of those guys”, commented Quentin Pryor. He may of last played with Phoenix Hagen 13 years ago, but the memories of then were always fresh in his mind and when he heard of some shocking news, those memories of yesterday surfaced again as if he was back in Hagen again. In the matter of a few months two members of the beloved Phoenix Hagen family passed away with Matthias Grothe and Marco Schmitz. “R.I.P to Matthias and Marco. They are Hagen legends. I was probably Matthias’ least favorite American my first year. I liked to talk a lot on the floor and we had a few words. When I got to Hagen everything changed. He was a true professional. He gave everything he had for that organization. He was a great leader. I learned so much about the European game from him during practice especially the pick n roll. Him and Bernd always had jokes. That’s all they did on trips. Marco would travel to every game that we had. No matter if we won or lost, he was always very positive about everything. He really loved Phoenix Hagen. Marco was the first person that I saw with a jersey with my name on it. Even after I left Hagen, Marco still followed my career and would message me from time to time about certain games. I was really shocked when I saw that he had passed”, stressed Quentin Pryor.

Marco Schmitz and Miles Schmidt-Scheuber calling a Frankfurt-Hagen game in the 2010-2011 season in Frankfurt

He played from 2011-2013 in Austria where he would ball with WBC Raiffeisen Wels (Austria-A Bundesliga) playing 31 games averaging 14.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.7apg, Steals-4 (1.9spg), FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.7% and with the ECE Bulls Kapfenberg (Austria-A Bundesliga) playing 38 games averaging 10.9ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 75.4%. He came to Austria without a professional title, but in Austria he would make further experiences about what it´s like playing basketball in May and getting closer to the basketball crest step by step. “Those were my first years competing in the playoffs. By then I was the veteran and I had to set the example for everyone. Whatever needed to be done, I did it. Coming up short in those series made me much more hungry for the next time around”, added Quentin Pryor. In the summer of 2013, he had to make another decision of which new team to join. He would opt for the GasTerra Flames Groningen (Holland-Eredivisie) which when he looks back now on was the correct decision as that would be his last professional season and he would hang up his jersey having won not one, but two titles with the Dutch league and cup titles. It was the perfect story book ending for his professional career even if he didn´t know it at the time in the summer 2014 that he would never play professionally again besides a short pre season stint with Petrolina AEK Larnaca (Cyprus-Division A). “At the time it wasn’t my ending but looking back yes. We set all types of records that season in the Dutch league. Even with all of that we had to comeback in the semis after digging a 0-2 hole and we went 7 games in the finals. By far the best game that I have ever played in. It was so tense that day. We were a group that was full of experienced players that played the game the way it was supposed to be played “, added Quentin Pryor. With Groningen he played 41 games averaging 8.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 66.1%; and in the EuroChallenge played 3 games averaging 8.7ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.0spg. The American will also never forget his teammate there Jason Douresseau who played 10 seasons with that organization. “That guy knows that city and organization like no other. Having him on the team just made the transition to Groningen so easy. Jason could defend 4 positions with no problem and it seemed like every time we needed a big play he would come up with it”, warned Quenton Pryor.

It has been almost a decade since Pryor last played a professional game. It isn´t one thing that the American misses the most, but a combination of many things. “I miss everything. Playing, camaraderie with teammates, the fans, travel, and of course the relationships I built with several people in Europe. For a while, it was basically home for my family. We spent more time there than we did here due to the season. One thing I miss outside of the game is the food. Döner macht schooner”, smiled Quentin Pryor. His life is very busy and full at the moment as he is calling Louisville, Kentucky home these days and is a full-time teacher at a residential facility and coaching basketball at the high school ranks and got his Masters degree in 2018. Even if his life is in full swing and everything is going well, the transition period from professional basketball player back to the normal 9-5 life wasn´t easy at first. “I would be a lie if I said it was easy. I was not prepared for the adjustment because it was so abrupt. The worst is the financial issue of course. You get used to living a certain way and seeing a certain amount in your bank account and then it dries up. I had some rough days dealing with this. I was living in a place where I didn’t have the best connections so it was difficult”, stressed Quentin Pryor. He has been coaching at the middle and high school level and currently is coaching at DuPont Manual High School. They are currently 23-4 on the year with 3 games left before post season play begins. This past summer he received his certification to be a personal trainer and currently is pursuing his strength and conditioning certification.It isn´t rare these days that professional basketball players decide to teach the game they have always loved to kids and that is a route that Pryor is happy he has chosen. “Honestly it has been great. I love the aspect of having to learn the opposing coach’s tendencies. My biggest strength right now is just being able to connect with the kids. I want to know how they are off the court and then I have a better chance of teaching them the game because I have established a relationship. I am actually able to show them the proper way of how to actually do certain things and react to different looks on the floor”, added Quentin Pryor. But for the American there is a greater satisfaction from his new profession than just teaching the general x´s and o´s to kids. “It is a positive experience. My biggest satisfaction is actually knowing that I am creating a relationship with them and I will have an impact on them for the rest of their lives”, added Quentin Pryor. It is always interesting to see if coach Pryor not only sees that big talent in his group of kids but is even able to witnesses that kid that has a little bit of him in him. “We have a few kids that definitely remind me of myself coming up. I just try to remind them that you don’t need a number by your name in order to chase your dream”, warned Quentin Pryor. But he also has another big joy besides teaching kids the game, but also has wetted the basketball appetite of his son who is going the basketball route. “I didn’t push basketball on him. I let him make his own decision as to if he wanted to do it. I will say that the light has come on for him. He goes all out on the floor. He is still pretty raw but I am very encouraged by what I see from him as far as growth”, warned Quentin Pryor in 2018. 5 years later, his son has definitely made progress in the game. “He is coming into his own now. Before he was still trying to figure out his position and game. He’s more of a shooting guard with a scorer’s mentality. He’s a sophomore now but is expected to breakout next season”, stressed Quentin Pryor. Back in 2018, he could of coached at a higher level, but instead showed real man qualities taking a step down and allowing his wife to finish her Batchelor and be a dad at home. It would be difficult to find a better example of a role model for any kid interested in making the grade as a player, dad and human being besides Quentin Pryor. Not only was Quentin Pryor a true warrior that played the game the way it should be played, but didn´t care about stats, but only winning. He gave everything he had in between the lines from tip to final buzzer and that won´t be forgotten especially in Hagen.

Siler Schneider (191-G-1995, college: UC Davis, agency: One Motive Sports) is a 28 year old 191cm guard from Lansing Kansas that is playing his 5th professional season and second in Germany and first with Phoenix Hagen. Last season he helped Rasta Vechta win the Pro A title and averaged 6.4ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 20.4%, FT: 62.2%. He played his first 2 professional seasons with BC Athletic Neptun Constanta (Romania-Liga Nationala) and in his second season averaged 16.5ppg), 5.3rpg, Assists-2 (5.5apg), Steals-3 (2.0spg), FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 25.7%, FT: 71.7%. Two seasons ago he palyed with Horsens IC (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 14.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 5.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 24.7%, FT: 67.9%. In 2022 he also got experience with Auckland Tuatara (New Zealand-NBL) averaging 17.5ppg, 5.4rpg, Assists-3 (5.8apg), 1.5spg, FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 57.1%. He began his basketball career at Lansing high school. He then played at the : University of California – Davis (NCAA) form 2015-2019 playing a total of 126 NCAA games and averaged scoring in double figures in 3 of his 4 seasons. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Siler for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome back to Germany. Congrats on signing with Phoenix Hagen. Do you feel like your overall game will come through better here than in Vechta that was filled with top players?

Vechta was a great experience and I´m happy we won a championship. In Hagen I believe I’ll have a bigger role with a coach that believes in me.

Head coach Chris Harris stated that you’re a brave passer. Do you feel like your playmaking and assists will rise back to what you showed in New Zealand, Denmark and Romania?

Every system and every team is different. I’ve always been a playmaker who can put pressure on defenses and create good opportunities for myself and teammates. I’m confident the numbers will resemble that this season

How strange will it be playing against Vechta this season? You won your first pro title with them?

I don’t think it’ll be strange playing against Vechta. It will be fun to play at the rasta dome again

How challenging was last season? Your minutes really fluctuated. I guess you can say you made the most of it?

Last season was a challenge for a couple reasons. It’s never easy coming to a team in the middle of the season, especially a team that’s undefeated at the time. Guys who have been together since August seeing a new guy come at the end of November and wondering why I’m there. I wouldn’t say it was comfortable but I tried to do what the team asked of me in a limited role

What was so special about last season´s team? How much of the overall atmosphere from top to bottom in the organization is infectious in gaining success?

The thing that was special with the team last season was our depth. We had a lot of guys who could play at high levels. The organization is very professional and the city has a passion for winning

The youth department´s success has been growing in the last years. What young rising German impressed you the most? Possibly a Johann Gruneloh?

Rasta does an amazing job with the youth and I was impressed with many young guys. Johann Gruhnloh Kaya Bayram Killian Brockhoff and Noah Janen practiced with us and acted much older than they are. They all have a bright future

Let´s talk a bit about your game. You’re a 191cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I´m really not sure who my nba comparison would be. Like I said every team and system is different and I’ve been a different player depending on what teams have asked of me.

Your assists really rose as a professional. Did your playmaking develop as a pro or have you always had it? Your assist averaged wasn´t as high in the NCAA.

I believe my playmaking has developed but I think i’ve always had it. I didn’t play point guard in college so naturally my assist numbers weren’t as high.

Your three pointer continues to be a work in progress. How challenging is it finding consistency as a shooter?

The biggest thing with my 3 point shot is confidence. Both my confidence in myself and my coaches confidence in me taking the shots. I’m the same player that played in new Zealand months before and shot 37%. There I had a higher volume and a coach who gave me the freedom to shoot it.

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

This summer I’ve been working on many things but focused mainly on shooting. Just being more consistent on catch and shoot threes

Las year you found experience with the Auckland Tuatara (New Zealand-NBL) averaging 17.5ppg, 5.4rpg, Assists-3 (5.8apg), 1.5spg, FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 57.1%. What was your coolest experience off the court?

There are so many wonderful things I could say about New Zealand. It’s paradise. The most beautiful place in the world and the people there made it so special. I’ll be visiting again one day for sure

In 21-22 you played with highly respected Danish team Horsens IC (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 14.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 5.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 24.7%, FT: 67.9%. What kind of an experience was that? You saved some of your best games for the Svenborg series?S

Denmark was awesome. some of the most friendly people in the world and it’s a great place to live. I had some really good players around me but yes I started to play my best at the end of the season.

You played your first 2 pro seasons in Romania and as a rookie with BC Athletic Neptun Constanta (Romania-Liga Nationala) playing 3 games averaging 22.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 6.0apg. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you

Romania was such a culture shock but I absolutely loved it. It was exciting being in such a different place my first year overseas

In your second season you played with BC Athletic Neptun Constanta (Romania-Liga Nationala) playing 23 games: Score-5 (16.5ppg), 5.3rpg, Assists-2 (5.5apg), Steals-3 (2.0spg), FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 25.7%, FT: 71.7%. How tough was being a key player for a losing team? How tough mentally is as the point guard having to deal with the losing? Was there any positives you could get from the experience?

I had many positives to take away from the Constanta team. We were very young and at the time we didn’t have a very big budget. But it was good for me to get that experience playing against some really good teams and players. My coaches there really helped my development

You played at the University of California-Davis from 2015-2019 and won the Big West title in 2017 with California-Davis. What was so special about the run?

Everything about our Davis team that year was special but we just had the perfect makeup of personalities that meshed on and off the court

TJ Shorts came on board your junior season and were teammates for 2 years. If somebody had told you in 2019 this guy would win the MVP in a top 5 league in Europe 4 years later what would you have said? How inspiring is his focus and drive to be as best he can despite his height?

If someone told me at the time thatTJj would have this success I wouldn’t be surprised. he’s an ultra competitor

How special of a teammate was he? I can imagine you both pushed each other to the limit every practice? Did some of that killer instinct rub off on you?

He was a great teammate and I think we both have that killer instinct

You had many very special games in the NCAA but I think the 2 wins and games against Long Beach State in your junior season where you had 27 and 29 points have to be at the top of your list?

The Long Beach series were always fun games. Some other games that stood out is my freshman year at Boise State and then obviously the NCAA tournament game against Kansas.

How did head coach Jim Les groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Les is a basketball genius and to this day I retain the principles he instilled

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or TJ Shorts?

I don’t remember playing TJ too much in one on ones but I remember me and Brynton Lemar having many battles. You can ask him who got more wins haha

Who has been the toughest player that you have played against in your career so far?

Probably one of the toughest players I’ve matched up against is Anthony Hickey when we were in Romania

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Rob Loe, Chip Flanigan, magnus høj, josh fox, and my brother calvin (in high school)

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, MJ, Kobe and Shaq

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

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

I haven’t seen the sequel but I’ll check that out

Thanks Siler for the chat.

O’Showen Williams (180-PG-1997, college: App State) is a 26 year old 180cm point guard from Macon, Georgia playing his 4th professional season and first with German Pro A team PS Karlsruhe. Last season he played with s.Oliver Wuerzburg (Germany-BBL) averaging 4.7ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg. In the 21-22 season he balled with Terme Olimia Podcetrtek (Slovenia-Liga Nova KBM) averaging 14.1ppg, 4.0rpg, Assists-4 (5.3apg), Steals-2 (2.2spg), FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 64.8%. He played his rookie season with the Reading Rockets (United Kingdom-NBL D1) averaging 21.3ppg, 5.5rpg, 4.5apg, Steals-5 (2.2spg), FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 75.9%. he began his basketball career at Stratford Academy and then played a season at South Georgia State College (JUCO) averaging 13.6ppg, 3.9rpg, 5.1apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 70.8%. He then played 3 seasons at Appalachian State University (NCAA) playing a total of 96 NCAA games and as a senior averaged 12.8ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.2apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 66.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks O´showen for talking to germanhoops.com. After playing your first 2 seasons in lower leagues in the UK and Slovenia, you played last season in Wurzburg. Now your tearing up the German Pro A with PS Karlsruhe. Was the easyCredit BBL last season a step too early?

I would not consider last season a step too early for me. Prior to signing with Wurzburg, I knew that the season would look different for me. I had spoke with the coaching staff and was ready to embrace my role, develop, and learn from the guys that were in front of me. Towards the end of the season my growth spoke for itself on the court as my minutes increased. I was able to capitalize off the opportunities that I was given and felt like my hard work had paid off.

I can imagine your size has played a role your whole career. What example in your career was instrumental in making you strong and just having that chip on your shoulder your whole career?

Throughout my career my size has been brought up several times, but it is something that I try not to let effect my game. I am aware of my size so throughout my career I have always tried to make up for it by being aggressive and active on defense, bringing energy to the court, and playing my game the way I know how.

Your really having a fantastic Pro A season. How blessed are you to have taken this step to Karlsruhe? Was it one of the better decisions that you have made as a professional player?

I am extremely blessed for this opportunity. It has been a great experience so far. I am happy with my decision to come and play here this season.

The team is playing a very good season. How much fun has it been playing for this team and what do you believe is the team´s biggest strength?

It has been a very fun season so far! I think our biggest strength is the chemistry we have with one another. We hang out often off the court, our talks in the locker room, and just getting to know each other has defiantly translated to how we play together on the court which is a big strength for us.

What has it been playing together with combo guard Garai Zeeb. He is a player like you that played BBL and moved back to the Pro A. How do you guys compliment each other best and what do you appreciate most about his game?

Its been a blessing playing with Garai, he is versatile and gives me an opportunity to showcase what I can do on and off the ball. We compete and push each other in practice helping make ourselves and the team better.

A big talent is Danish forward Bakkery Dibba. The guy is celebrating his break out season. How big is his potential as BBL is on the horizon for him.

He has a huge potential!! He is athletic, versatile, and plays with a ton of energy. The sky is the limit for him and he can go as far as he’d like! He can use his athleticism offensively and defensively which is a huge plus for him as well. It will be exciting to watch his journey as he continues to grow in his career.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 180cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I do not really watch the NBA, but Allen Iverson, has always been my role model and how I have wanted to shape my style of play.

You’re a player that likes and knows how to fill the stat sheet very well. What do you feel is your absolute biggest strength on the court?

I think my biggest strength is my on ball defense and my ability to get several steals a game. I think when I can start the game off with a good stop or steal it ignites my offense and gets me going.

You were a solid three point shooter in the NCAA, but became a 40% shooter as a professional. What was most instrumental to making that jump and where do you see the development of your shot in the future?

During the off season I put a huge emphasis on working on my shot! Off the dribble, catch and shoot, in transition, etc. All of my workouts start and end with shooting so to see it translate to the season and in game is nice! I will continue to work on my shot and try to get as consistent as possible. Confidence also played a role in this as I was given more opportunities to take shots, and show what I had worked on all off season.

You have always been a very ambitious and aggressive defender that gets steals easily. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I think my defense is still the same. I know that defense brings energy and easy steals, lead to easy offense! Each game I try to make that my focus coming in and I will continue to do so.

Last season you played with s.Oliver Wuerzburg (Germany-BBL) playing 34 games averaging 4.7ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3sp. How tough was that season for you and what did you learn about yourself?

The season was challenging for me, my competitive nature was dying to show that I could compete with those guys and at that level. As difficult as it was I accepted my role and developed my game as much as possible. I also took this as an opportunity to learn and soak in all the knowledge I could. I learned a lot about myself that season but the biggest thing I think I learned is patience and to trust the process. I stayed focused and things are paying off for me this year!

How refreshing was it playing together with Stanley Whittaker a player that continues to climb the basketball ladder. He had a great season with PS Karlsruhe that helped him reach the BBL. Was he like a role model for you?

It was great playing with Stan! I learned a lot from him, we competed against each other daily! Stan is like a brother to me now, as we created a great bond while playing together. We still stay in touch to this day!

You had 2 very good games against Alba Berlin and FC Bayern Munich, but Wurzburg failed to eclipse 50 points in both games. Despite the loses how key were these 2 games for your game in the BBL?

Despite the loses, for me those two games elevated my perspective. It showed me that I do belong, and I can compete at that level! It has motivated me to continue working hard and continue to improve my game for when that time comes again.

In 21-22 you played with Terme Olimia Podcetrtek (Slovenia-Liga Nova KBM) averaging 14.1ppg, 4.0rpg, Assists-4 (5.3apg), Steals-2 (2.2spg), FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 64.8%. In light of Luka Doncic´s 73 points recently, how do you remember experiencing the Luka legacy in his home country?

It was a good experience! It is not to often that you see so many people show one person so much love!

You played 2 tough playoff series against Ilirija and the Helios Suns. What memories do you have of those battles where you were a key figure?

The most memorable thing from that time was the community we were surrounded by and how proud they were of our team! The club had never gone that far and to help them and make the community proud is something I will never forget!

You played your rookie season with the Reading Rockets (United Kingdom-NBL D1) averaging 21.3ppg, 5.5rpg, 4.5apg, Steals-5 (2.2spg), FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 75.9%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas when you knew that you were far away from home?

It finally hit me when I was on the plane, by myself, and I only had a one way ticket! There was no turning back, it was time to grow up and become a real man! You realize very fast how much you have to change as far as mentality, eating habits, spending habits, etc. I had to figure a lot of things out by myself. Of course we had resources, and teammates but I had to grow up and do everything on my own, which I am very grateful for, especially while playing the game I love.

What memories will you always have of Samuel Toluwase? Was he like a mentor for you?

It was nice playing with him! It was later in his career when we played together so it was interesting to see how he still had good mobility and athleticism, he also took really great care of his body all the time.

You began your basketball career with South Georgia State College (JUCO) averaging 13.6ppg, 3.9rpg, 5.1apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 70.8%. Most guys I have interviewed who played Juco have said it was a real grind, but one of their best basketball experiences. How was it for you?

Juco is a real grind, it makes you decide quickly if you really love the game and tests your commitment as well. It helped me transition smoothly into an established D1 program already prepared for the grind that that would bring.

`You played at Appalachian State University (NCAA) from 2017-2020. You had your ups and downs, but broke free as a senior. How did your game grow in those 3 years?

My game took a turn when Coach Dustin Kerns and his staff came along! I stayed in Boone the summer they arrived and worked with them everyday to improve and learn their system. It really paid off for me once the season started! They trusted me on the court and knew what I was capable of!

You had many great games against S Alabama and UT Arlington, UALR, Coastal Carolina Etc. What was your personal fondest moment on the court?

My fondest moment, despite the loss, was against south Alabama. I hit 10 3-pointers and set a school record.

You were teammates with Michael Bibby who is the son of 17 year veteran Mike Bibby and his grandfather was Henry Bibby who was an NBA player and won 3 NCAA titles with UCLA. What was it like being his teammates for 2 years? Did he tell any meaningful stories of his family?

Michael Bibby and I were actually rooomates! It was great being his teammate and creating a bond with his family as well! I have visited them a few times in the summer time to train, and there is nothing like learning directly from a NBA player!

You played for head coach Dustin Kearns. How did he groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Kerns really pushed me everyday to be my best! As I mentioned, I stayed the summer he arrived and trained with him and the staff, so I knew he had great intentions for myself and the program!

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Michael Bibby?

Surprisingly, we have never played 1-1

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

I played on a great AAU circuit where we faced guys like Deaaron Fox, Jayson Tatum, and Miles Bridges every night! It is hard to name just one but that puts it in perspective for you! Haha

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time

Stanley Whittaker, CJ Bryce, Gasper, Dennis Tuntsal, Dibba Bakkary

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

Allen Iverson, Lebron James, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant

Who is your GOAT and why?

Lebron James! His immediate impact on the game was something that we hadn’t quite seen before, and the way he continuously impacts at his age. It will be interesting to see how many more seasons he will play and how he will continue to impact the NBA world.

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

I didn’t see the sequel but I agree they should have left it alone!

Thanks O´Showen for the chat.

Who could forget the many intensive and gritty battles between the Fraport Skyliners and Jobstairs Giessen 46ers in the easyCredit BBL over the years. The Hessen derby is one that fans get excited about each season. The first Pro A Hessen derby between both teams was played in Giessen where the Fraport Skyliners steam rolled to the win by 23 points. However that was more than 3 months ago as back then Frankfurt was in the midst of their crushing 9 game winning streak as no team could stop them. Times have changed since then as Frankfurt has suffered 6 loses since and were meeting a much improved Giessen team who came into the Skyliners living room sporting a 5 game winning streak. They had much improved their defense as they allowed only 69 points per game in the first four games of that winning streak. Giessen wanted leverage in the standings and stormed into Frankfurt seeking revenge, but a disastrous and costly second quarter presented their doom as the Fraport Skyliners destroyed the Jobstairs Giesen 46ers 94-67. Frankfurt scored 29 points in the second quarter and their aggressive defense was like a swarm of angry bees as Giessen had no real answer from then on. “I think that we did a great job sticking to the game plan. Our focus was to outrun them and post up certain guys. We were a lot younger and were able to take advantage of that. We played a good game defensively and were strong with rebounding”, stated Fraport Skyliner Canadian David Muenkat (201-F-2000, college: St.Francis X.). It was just one of those days were Giessen couldn´t muster anything and make adjustments when they needed them most. Their three didn´t fall and they didn´t do a good job taking care of the ball. “They executed really well and were a lot more connected than we were. There is a reason why they are one of the best defensive teams in the league. We have to be able to do a better job on offense no matter how much pressure they make”, stressed Jobstairs Giessen 46er guard Duane Wilson.

Booker Coplin at the FT line

Both teams came out with high intensity and played with a high tempo while defensively playedaggressive and surprisingly both teams found their rhythms quickly. Frankfurt received early energy from athletic Justin Onyejiaka who scored twice on drives while Giessen also relied on the short game getting lay in´s from Robin Benzing who played 167 times for the German national team and ex easyCredit BBL player Luis Figge as Frankfurt had the slim 8-7 lead. There would be 6 lead changes in the first quarter as fans witnessed a real Hessen derby battle and atmosphere. Serbian Stefan Fundic and Onyejiaka traded buckets and the teams leads once again. Giessen then got the lead back getting lay in´s from Fundic and Wisconsin native Duane Wilson to lead 15-12. Frankfurt was running and running which was their game plan while Giessen lived by good offensive set play and presenting their lethal inside out game. Frankfurt then ripped the lead back as ex Indiana State guard and Swiss army knife Cameron Henry supplied 5 points from the bench with a lay in and a transition basket for the 17-15 advantage after 10 minutes. “Fans definitely saw a battle by 2 focused derby teams. But you never win the game after one quarter. We just continued to stick to the game plan and chipped away”, stressed David Muenkat. The Fraport Skyliners shot 53% from the field and 0% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers shot 38% from the field and 0% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Trevion Crews with the lay in

The turning point of the game occurred in the second quarter as the Fraport Skyliners exploded for 29 points and played aggressive defense that led to steals and easy transition baskets something from which Giessen never recovered from. Giessen actually had the better start going on a 5-0 run to haul back the lead at 20-17 as Indiana native Trevon Crews scored and Fundic added a trey. But Frankfurt didn´t waste anytime punching back and going on a lethal 14-2 run to get their biggest lead of the game at 31-22. Frankfurt´s excellent defensive pressure sparked their offense in this phase. Minnesota native Booker Coplin was key getting a few steals which led to Meunkat baskets while Coplin also scored himself and Henry dropped a three pointer. Frankfurt´s explosive game didn´t stop as after Bnezing made free throws, Frankfurt made 10 unanswered points to lead 41-24 in the run, the superb transition game of Frankfurt continued as U20 EM Bronze winner Lorenz Brenneke scored twice including a massive dunk, Jordan Samare also scored in the paint and Booker Coplin made a offensive rebound and put back and off balance shot. Brenneke would score 10 points and add 6 rebounds, but also showed on the defensive end that he is a threat grabbing 2 steals and making a block. “Lorenz was fantastic today. When he is firing on all cylinders at both ends, he really gets us all going. He can really rebound the heck out of the ball. He makes our lives easier”, stressed David Muenkat. In the last minutes, Duane Wilson gave Giessen needed energy with 5 points, but Frankfurt responded with another clutch three pointer by Cameron Henry and another lay in by Lorenz Brenneke to lead 46-29 at the break. “We were really aggressive on the defensive end. Guys weren´t scared to get beat. We had great help side defense and were firing from all cylinders. It helped that we hit a lot of shots and just stuck together as a team”, commented David Muenkat. The Fraport Skyliners shot 57% from the field and 27% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 8 turnovers while the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers shot 35% from the field and 18% from the three point line and had 15 rebounds and 11 turnovers.

Aiden Warnholtz with the lay in

In the third quarter the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers had a great start and run, but the Fraport Skyliners squashed that and outscored them 25-7 to totally decide the game after 30 minutes. Giessen came out of half time refueled and refocused shocking Frankfurt with their style of basketball of highly aggressive defense and pressure that totally stifled Frankfurt. Giessen hit Frankfurt with a 7-0 run and stopped their first 5 possessions to climb back into the game trailing only 46-36 as there seemed light at the end of the tunnel. In the Giessen run, their defense also sparked their offense as they got transition baskets from Slovakian national player Simon Krajcovic and Willson while Luis Figge added free throws. But a massive Aiden Warnholtz three pointer stopped the Giessen run and got Frankfurt on track as they closed out the third quarter strong with a 23-7 run to have the overwhelming 71-43 advantage. Frankfurt found their offensive rhythm again and just executed beautifully and shared the ball nicely getting many involved. Muenkan and Henry nailed jumpers and Warnholtz another trey and Frankfurt had the huge 58-41 lead. It also didn´t help Giessen´s cause as they were hit early with their 5th team foul and had to ease off the aggressive defensive pressure. Frankfurt continued to overpower Giessen with their potent offense and finished the thrid quarter with a 13-2 run. Frankfurt continued to spread around the ball as Muenkat, Jacob Knauf and Coplin scored. In the last second ex Oldenburg guard Kevin Mcclain made a quick lay in and then out of nowhere Cameron Henry stole the inbounds pass under the guests basket and made the lay in. “That was a heads up play. I saw that the guy making the pass had that I don´t know if I´m going to make the pass or not. The pass was slow and I jumped between it. Sometimes when opponents are hit with big runs, they get sloppy”, stated Cameron Henry. The Fraport Skyliners shot 61% from the field and 41% from the parking lot and had 29 rebounds and 16 turnovers while the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers shot 34% from the field and 12% from the parking lot and had 22 rebounds and 15 turnovers. “We took our foot off the gas in the first few minutes, but responded well. Warnholtz´s three pointer switched the momentum back to our side. We stuck to our principles. Once you get stops, the rest takes care of itself”, warned David Muenkat. “We were close to making a run. We got it down to 10 points. That Warnholtz three pointer hurt. They began to hit more shots and we lost energy. They got all 50/50 balls which was crucial”, stated Duane Wilson.

Luis Figge at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers erupted for 24 points, but couldn´t stop Frankfurt either as they scored 23 points. Ex Crailsheim German Dejan Kovacevic hit a trey to begin the fourth quarter, but Frankfurt had their offense flowing as well as Warnholtz dropped another trey and Brenneke made a tip in for the 78-48 Frankfurt lead. Then came the play of the game as Mcclain flicked up a high lob pass towards the rim that David Muenkat dunked for the pretty alley-oop play and 80-50 advantage. “I have had a lot of nice dunks in my short career so far. Coach drew up a nice play and I knew it would work for us the way they set up their defense. I trust Kevin to make the perfect pass. It´s always nice to get the crowd involved”, expressed David Muenkat. Benzing and Mcclain then swapped buckets twice, but Frankfurt still led smoothly 84-55. The fourth quarter saw some added pretty plays as Knauf rattled the arena with hard dunk. Ex Stoney Brook (NCAA) forward Roland Nyama got some garbage points as he made 2 lay in´s. Frankfurt got some extra points from their bigs as Knauf and Samare scored. Luis Figge closed out the game with a lay in as Skyliner fans went home happy while Giessen fans only had a short 40 minute car ride to digest the blowout loss. “We did a good job playing hard until the end. We never took our foot off the gas pedal. We played with that shark smelling blood attitude and stepped on their necks some more”, warned David Muenkat. “We ran out of gas. We have to learn from this and come back recharged after the break”, warned Duane Wilson. The Fraport Skyliners were led by David Muenkat with 17 points while Cameron Henry and Booker Coplin added 15 points apiece while the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers were led by Duane Wilson with 17 points. The Fraport Skyliners shot 60% from the field and 39% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 16 turnovers while the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers shot 38% from the field and 21% from outside and had 31 rebounds and 16 turnovers.

Miles Mallory (196-F, college: RMC) is a196cm forward from Laurel, Maryland playing his rookie season in Germany with the Seeburg College Wizards Karlsruhe (Germany-Regionalliga). He began his basketball career with St. Vincent Pallotti high school and then played at Randolph-Macon College from 2019-2023 averaging 12.3ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2spg, 2.7bpg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 61.7% as a freshman, and in his second year averaged 12.3ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.6apg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 68.8%, in his junior season he averaged 15.3ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.1spg, 2.6bpg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 69.6% and as a senior averaged 14.8ppg, 8.8rpg, 2.0apg, 2.8bpg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 68.6%. He spoke to germanmhoops.com after a win over the Bona Baskets Limburg.

Thanks Miles for talking to germanmhoops.com. In school you were known to be rather quiet. Now in front of you is a guy that shares your name Miles. How cool is that? How often have you met other Miles´s in your life time?

It´s cool meeting another Miles. I actually met a lot in high school. I would say in my life, I have met around 10 or 11 Miles´s.

Your playing your rookie season in Germany. How blessed do you feel to be playing the game that you love? Not many division 3 players are overseas.

I feel really blessed as a former div 3 player to get the opportunity to play overseas. I try to be a good role model for other div 3 players. I just play hard and give my best.

How blessed do you feel being represented by Scorers First? They are a a top 3 Germany agent agency. Do you sometimes wonder where you may be today had you not met them?

I feel really blessed to be represented by them. I didn´t really know the process, but Daniel reached out to me. I had no other agency interested in me. It was either Daniel or nothing.

Your playing your rookie season for the Seeburg College Wizards Karlsruhe (Germany-Regionalliga). What kind of an experience has it been playing and living in Germany? What have you appreciated most about the country Germany?

I really have enjoyed living in Germany and playing for this organization. My teammates are all unselfish and really empowering to me. They support me and always tell me to be aggressive. You don´t see that everywhere.

How would you describe the Regionalliga with NCAA 3 ball in skill and player skill?

I don´t feel like there is much difference. The pace is faster in the Regionalliga whereas in division 3 there was more defense played.

What has it been like playing with 2 talented German players Vincent Hennen and Stefan Ilzhoefer. What have you learned to appreciate most about their games?

I appreciate them as teammates a lot. They are both very vocal. If something isn´t right, they always speak up. They really make it easy for me.

Your playing a great season averaging 20,7ppg, 9,7rpg, 1,5apg, 1,2spg and 2,1bsp. What has been your secret to being able to adjust so well to euro ball as a rookie?

I think just continuing to follow my routine. I keep that process of what I´m working on and as stated earlier, my teammates make it easy for me.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard/forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I would say Jalen Smith of the Pacers. I played against him in high school. I remember playing ok against him.

You’re an incredible scorer and rebounder. What is your secret to being such a great rebounder?

I think that I always have a good idea where the ball will go. 70% of the time if the ball is shot from one side, then it will drop on the other side. I do a good job with anticipation and carving out my space around the basket. I also stick to going to the ball with 2 strong arms.

Your also a very ambitious and aggressive defender that is a great shot blocker. Guys at 196cm aren´t usually great shot blockers. You already had that consistency in college. How ambitious are you to heightening your shot blocking success down the road?

I´m at a different level now and a slightly different position. I focus a lot more on rebounding. I don´t block as much, but if I get some, I´ll be happy about that.

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

I´m working a lot on my three point shooting and ball handling. I´m shooting more three´s this season than I ever did and my percentages are at an all-time best as well.

You played at Randolph-Macon College (NCAA3) from 20192-023 and won 4 ODC titles. Which one was the sweetest?

I would say the last one, because I won it with my senior class.

You played 2 years together with Buzz Anthony. What memories do you have of him and what was your fondest moment with him?

He was a great player at Randolph-Macon. He is probably the best player and best passer that I ever played with. He really inspires me too keep working hard. I loved how he approached the game. It made it easy to learn

You won the 2022 Division 3 title. What memories you do have of that glorious run?

We won that title by like 30 points. It was nice that everyone got in the game and scored. It was a great moment for the school.

Josh Merkel thinks the world of you and calls you a superstar. I don´t think you will often hear words like that openly from a coach about his player. How did head coach Josh Merkel groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He instilled the right routine and mind set in me to be successful. He held all to a standard. I´m very grateful having had him as a coach.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Daniel Mbangue?

I beat him the last time. He was a very dangerous player. He was just as good a rebounder as me. He was hard to guard.

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

Immanuel Quickly. I played him in high school

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Buzz Anthony, Josh Talbert, Steve Kennedy, Daniel Mbange, Noah Lindsay

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

Lebron, Jordan, Duncan, Kareem

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan

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

They should of left it alone. My mom loves the original. I saw that like a million times.

Thanks Miles for the chat.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Ryan Richmond in Frankfurt, Germany January 2024

Ryan Richmond (183-PG-1996, college: Bentley, agency: SLN) is a 27 year old 183cm guard from Toronto, Canada playing his fourth professional season and recently played with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. He began the season with Melilla Ciudad del Deporte (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 6.3ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.0apg. He played the last 2 professional seasons in Germany with the WWU Baskets Muenster (Germany-ProB) averaging 17.4ppg, 5.4rpg, 5.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 72.3% and the ART Giants Duesseldorf (Germany-ProA) averaging 15.6ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT: 77.8%. He played his rookie season with MAFC Budapest 2 (Hungary-B). He began his basketball career at David & Mary Thomson Collegiate and the played at Williston Northampton High School. He then played at Bentley College (NCAA2) from 2015-2019 amassing a total of 104 games. He took off in his stats in his last 3 years averaging 21.6ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 84.6%, 23.6ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.5apg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 80.9% and.0ppg, 4.9rpg, 3.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 89.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com in London after the big 66-63 win at home against the Romerstrom Gladiators Trier

Thanks Ryan for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the massive 66-63 win over top team Trier. How huge was this win for the current season?

This win was huge. I feel like this win could propel the team forward. To be able to beat the top team and stop their 12 game winning streak is no small feat.

After the tough loss to Giessen, You beat Artland on the row and now top team Trier. This win really speaks for the mora of the team. With what kind of attitude did the team go into the game with?

We have responded really well the last 2 games. We showed that we can beat the top team and be able to do something special. I remember using the word opportunity. We focused all week long and worked really hard in practice to achieve the goal of beating Trier.

The game started low scoring and ended as a low scoring game. What kind of volumes does that speak for the defense?

It speaks volumes for the team defense. Up to this game Trier had always scored a lot of points. To be able to keep them well below their average is a testament to our defense. Our focus and effort that we put forward on defense is something to be proud of.

After allowing 91 points to Giessen and 75 points to Artland, what major adjustments did the team do on the defensive end after 40 minutes against Trier?

We made a few minor adjustments on the pick and roll defense. I think that our mindset has been key for us playing better defense in the last 2 games. We began right from the start having this great desire to want to stop them. We had the opportunity to lock in on defense and took advantage of it.

In the second quarter Trier picked up it´s scoring with 20 points. What adjustments did they make and or what did Koblenz get away from?

I think that Trier just showed how talented a team they are. They have very skilled players and simply know how to adjust well on the fly. They have good bigs and good guards that know how to make plays when they need them.

The game continued to be a tight affair in the third quarter. How valuable was it for Koblenz going into the third quarter with the lead and what did head coach give the team as motivation going into the fourth quarter?

I think it was all about who wanted it more. We felt very comfortable going into the fourth quarter and it was just a matter of taking the game.

Benham Yakhchali was annoying in the fourth quarter. He seems to make the most out of every situation. What made it so tough slowing him down?

He made some really difficult shots and got to the free throw line. He made play after play for them. But we came together in the fourth to slow him down. We have more than enough capable players on the defensive end. I like how he plays. He kept them close in the game.

How vital were the 2 big buckets from Saffer and Poelking at the start of the fourth quarter? Did that kind of give Koblenz major momentum?

Those baskets were huge, but I feel our team MVP was Leon Friedrici. He hasn´t had the easiest time finding his role since the new coach came in. There were moments where he didn´t know if he would play. But he was always ready to play. He had a huge impact on the game.

Robert Hall was the unsung hero of the game. How big was his contribution? He sometimes seems to not to get the credit he deserves?

I agree. Trey was also huge. He is my boy. He is always working hard and does the little things. He always plays great defense and yesterday made timely baskets. He was our energizer. He played super well.

What besides Leon Friedrici´s three in crunch-time was key for the win?

We stuck together and key was also how we started the game. When everyone is one and we play the right way, then we can compete with anyone. This was a pivotal win and could change the entire trajectory of the season.

You told me after the brutal loss in Frankfurt that you guys made new steps as coach got the beast out of you as a team. What new steps did you make after the Trier win?

I have to give coach Marco Van Den Berg a lot of credit for the current success of the team. He has been able to tap into every player and made every player think in a different way. He has been able in a short time to achieve that he could get a collective mind set where everyone believes that we can beat anyone

A side note last week was you were only signed for 5 games. You played your fifth game and now will look for a new club. How tough was this whole time for you?

It was tough for sure. My time in Koblenz has come to an end. I did my best with the EPG Baskets. I took it as a professional and now am looking for the right situation. I will be ready and happy for the next opportunity.

Thanks Ryan for the chat.

Monyea Pratt (196-F-1985, college: Stillman) is a 38 year old 196cm forward that is playing his 16th professional season and third with BC CSU Sibiu (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 9,8ppg, 6,3rpg, 4,9apg and 1,4spg. He began his basketball career at Lawson State Community College and then played 2 years at Stillman College (NCAA2). He began his professional career in 2007 and played his first 5 seasons in Germany with Weissenhorn, Leipzig and Cuxhaven working his way up from the Regionalliga all the way to the Pro A being an impact player everywhere he played. After playing 2 years in France and Finland, he then came to Romaina in 2017 and has been there since. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Monyea for talking to germanhoops.com.Your playing your 16th pro season. Not many guys can say they did that. How´s your motor running now? How much longer can you go?

Motor still going man I’m just very blessed and you have to always keep in mind to take care of your body, I will play until it’s nothing left in the tank staying healthy also.

If someone had told you in 2007 when you were a rookie in Weissenhorn that you would still be playing in 2024 what would you have thought?

At that time I didn’t even really know that much about all the ins n outs of European basketball so I would’ve never imagined playing this long but the love for the game keeps me going.

You began your career 20 years ago at Lawson State Community College and then played at NCAA 2 school Stillmann. How vital were these years? I can imagine you developed a chip on your shoulder that helped you to have a 15 year professional career?

College ball was great. I’ve met a lot of good friends still to this day and for as having a Chip on my shoulder that’s always been there. I just worked hard no matter where I was playing When you’re good they will always see you no matter where you’re playing.

Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO said it was tough but an experience they would never have traded the world for. How was it for you?

For me It wasn’t tough at all mostly fun and exciting but it was challenging also you just have be ready when your time is called.

Talk a little about your NCAA 2 career at Stillman where you averaged 15.7ppg, 8.2rpg, 2.4apg, 2.2spg, FG: 56.0%, 3Pts: 37.5%, FT: 55.0% and 20.0ppg, 9.0rpg, 2.6apg, 2.1bpg, 2.9spg, FG: 45.7%, 3Pts: 31.4%, FT: 62.2%. What were your fondest moments on the court there?

My fondest moments were winning a championship, player of the year, and playing on ESPN.

How did head coach Tim Waller groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Waller prepared me well and gave me a lot of confidence, understood my game and trusted me as a leader of the team on and off the court.

I remember more than decade ago where Brian Harper said he was your toughest opponent in the NCAA 2. How do you remember those battles?

Brian was tough being a 6’9 small forward I really had to bring it all playing against him Every time It reminded us of how Kobe and Tmac would always battle each other on the court lol. The battles with Brian was always competitive and fun.

You played your rookie season with BC Groer Recycling Weissenhorn (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 18.0ppg. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I think it was not knowing how to speak and understand the German language

You then played 3 fruitful seasons with USC Leipzig. Could you say now a decade later that Leipzig became like a second home?

Absolutely. I love Leipzig and it was really 3 great seasons there. The coaches, staff and friends really helped me adapt to the culture and lifestyle there I really enjoyed Leipzig.

You were the main force on the team that helped lead the team to the Pro B. You had to pay your dues for 3 years before getting rewarded with a Pro a contract. Did you ever doubt the process or was your love for the game so strong that it helped you get through 3 years in lower leagues?

Strong love for the game for sure. I always knew that my talents would take me further because of hard work and dedication plus also an unselfish all around team player playing multiple positions You will always stand out from the rest.

You played 2 seasons together with American Lamar Morinia. Did you guys become like brothers? He is still playing in the PBL after being retired for 4 years.

Lamar is family for life. He was more of a big bro at the time and he really helped me in many ways on and off the court We always keep in contact with each other whether it is about ball, life, or family He is really great guy.

How vital was head coach Dimitris Polychroniadis? Is it fair to say that he gave you the green light all day long?

Dim is my guy and is a great coach. He understands his players and gives them freedom to play their game while still being coachable, also a great friend as well. We had a lot of great memories in Leipzig wand e always keep in touch too.

In your second season you achieved a triple double against Leverkusen. How special was it achieving a triple double for Leipzig?

Achieving a triple double was amazing. I really surprise myself whenever I achieve one but by doing that really puts your name out there in the basketball world that you’re an all around unselfish team player.

You then played the 2012-2013 season for the Cuxhaven BasCats (Germany-ProA) averaging 11.1ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.2apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 58.9%. You proved that season that you could play at a high level. I can imagine you won´t forget the playoff series loss to Karlsruhe and battling scorer Rouven Roessler?

Pro A was really competitive. You had to really be locked in and focused. We had a good team that year ups and downs but we did good and yes that loss really hurt I can’t forget that one.

After a strong season in the Pro A, you went to France to play in the third league with Etoile Charleville-Mezieres (France-NM1) averaging 16,.9ppg, Reb-3 (8.8rpg), 3.7apg, Steals-1 (2.8spg), FGP: 57.2%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 62.3%. Why did you go from the second division to France division 3? That could have been the stepping stone to remain in Germany?

At the time I got a new agent and I was always open to try other different countries and it turned out to be a great opportunity for me.

Your 2 years in France were great as you helped Etoile Charleville-Mezieres move to the Pro B. What was special about that team? You had a 40 point explosion against Lourdes that season.

Charleville was good from the management, staff, coaches, players we really all came together and achieved something great there! My very first 40 point game as a pro. That was an unforgettable game plus we won which made it even special.

In your second season you had 2 triple doubles against Angers BC. It is rare having 2 in one season against the same team. Was one more special than the other?

Very rare actually. The home game was special because the fans and supporters of Charleville got see it and we won.

You then played 2 seasons in Finland with Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 11.2ppg, Reb-2 (9.1rpg), 3.6apg, Steals-3 (2.0spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 27.7%, FT: 61.7% and with KTP Basket Kotka (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 13.7ppg, Reb-4 (8.7rpg), Assists-2 (6.7apg), Steals-1 (2.2spg), FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 47.3%. It seemed like this league really fit your game. How do you feel did your game grow here?

Finland was a great experience With both teams, the Finnish league was competitive and good, as far as my game grew I feel like each year you have to be better than the year before whether it’s scoring, defense, passing, rebounding or whatever.

You had 4 triple doubles for KTP Basket Kotka. It seems like your passing game really flourished. What NBA playmaker did you always like to watch or maybe model your game after?

For me it was always Jordan, Kobe and Allen Iverson

In 2017 you went to Romania and have played there for 6 seasons. What has been so special about the country and league that has made it your second home there?

Romania welcomed me with open arms, I adapted quickly there and the basketball level has really grown over the years.

You played your first 2 seasons with BC CSU Sibiu (Romania-Liga Nationala). This was the first time in your career where you had 4-5 other Americans on the team. Despite that you still could fill the stat sheet? How vital was your versatility to be able to be so consistent while having more competition for minutes. You were able to achieve a triple double in each season.

Just by being an experienced unselfish all around player.

You were lucky to play with Daniel Ewing who played his last season in 2018-19. What memories do you have of the ex NBA player and Duke legend? Often ex NBA players are in their own galaxy, but did he represent humbleness?

Dan was great. It was always the talks. I remember watching on him on tv at Duke and for the Los Angeles Clippers. I´m still amazed I got the chance to play with him. Dan was a vet and always gave me advice on and off the court, very humble he helped us a lot with his experience, skillset and mindset.

You won the cup in 2019 with BC CSU Sibiu. How special was this title and what will you always remember most from the cup run?

Greatness! The team we had was great almost in every position, well coached and it was really a great run and we played as a team from the start until end. It was very special and unforgettable moments to hold up that cup trophy and my MVP trophy.

You then went to top Romanian team SCM CSU Craiova (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 14.4ppg, 7.0rpg, 4.9apg, Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 57.3% and in your second season averaged 11.4ppg, 7.3rpg, Assists-4 (5.4apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 27.4%, FT: 63.2%. Despite Covid being around it didn´t affect your game. How do you remember Covid in Romania. What was the most difficult thing for you during this time?

It didn’t affect my game at all. I remember Covid being terrifying in Romania, all the hospitals were over packed, hardly no one was out n about just really like something from a movie. But the most difficult thing for me was not be able to have a social life but at the time I didn’t want to catch Covid either so I just had to mentally tough it out and find something else to with my down time.

In 21-22 you returned back to an old stomping ground with BC CSU Sibiu (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 9.1ppg, 5.8rpg, 3.6apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 33.7%, FT: 72.0%. Your stats dipped a bit. What do you remember from the tough playoff series against Cluj Napoca which you lost 2-0.

I just remember being the underdogs each time but we didn’t back down from them. It was really a battle both games. We held our own but sometimes it just doesn’t go your way so unfortunately we lost 0-2.

You split this season with CSM Focsani 2007 (Romania-Liga Nationala) and then returned to BC CSU Sibiu (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 9/6/4 stats. You closed out the season beating Rapid in the playoffs. Possibly a good way to close the chapter on your illustrious long career?

That playoff run was interesting and exciting. We were like the underdogs yet a couple key players went down with some injuries even me at one point but we managed and still got the job done. It definitely was a great run! But not closing just yet still playing this upcoming season as well haha.

Please name the toughest guard that you faced in your career that reached the NBA?

I didn’t play against anyone that reached the NBA level.

Who are your top 5 best teammates of all-time?

Lamar Morinia, Doug Wiggins, Scott Thomas, Chris Cooper, Kevin Hardy

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

Jordan Kobe Shaq Allen Iverson and Lebron

Where do you personally rank Steph Curry in the best point guards of all-time?

Top 3 all time

Who is you Goat and why?

I have 2 Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. Just the overall skillset, mental and physical toughness, the will to win and also didn’t fear anything or anyone on the court.

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

Yes I saw it and most definitely should’ve left it alone maybe a 2/10

Thanks Monyea for the chat