Christopher Miller (192-G-1993, college: Salem) is a 29 year old 193cm guard from Brooklyn, New York who is playing his eighth professional season and first with VFL Bensheim. He played 3 seasons with the Giessen Pointers (Germany-Regionalliga) and last season averaged 17.4ppg, 5.6rpg, 3.2apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 17.5%, FT: 78.6%. He has had experience in countries like El Salvador and Bosnia. He recently played for the South Shore Monarchs (TBL) playing 8 games averaging 22.4ppg, 5.6rpg, 4.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 83.3%. He began his basketball career at Clinton Community College and also played two years at Salem University (NCAA2). This season he teams up with Miles Schmidt-Scheuber with weekly chats about his basketball season.

Congrats Chris on the massive 95-84 win over Stuttgart to move to 1-1. What did it mean to you getting the first win for your new team Bensheim after losing the first game to Mannheim?


Thanks Miles and thank you for having me. This was a big win for us! I feel it showed us we could be a good team in this league and compete. We feel we made some mistakes in the Mannheim game that costed us but we were all focused to get that win this weekend.

Talk a little about the 40 minutes. It was high scoring as often is the case in Regionaliga games. How key were the high shooting percentages of Bensheim for ultimately getting the win?

I think this team has a lot of offensive players who can get rolling so we look to push the ball every time and keep pressure on the defense. I like this method because it keeps everyone involved and focused on the defense to get that fast break rolling.

Bensheim had huge problems on the boards being outrebounded and allowing 19 offensive rebounds. Does the team rebounding work concern you at the moment?

Rebounds have hurt us in the first 2 games for sure. I don’t think it will be a problem at all, but I do think it is something we need to focus on boxing out and limiting second and third efforts when we are on defense. It will have to be a full team focus to box out more.

How thrilling is it being a teammate with ex BBL player marc Liyanagge . You teamed up to combine for 56 points. What have you learned to appreciate most about his game so far?

MARC is a great teammate . I like how he leads and communicates without screaming and making his teammates feel insecure after mistakes . He leads by example and works hard. With his game I think he is a top player in this league who is versatile and is a match up nightmare for this league. Happy to have him with us.

You had another great game for 35 points and are averaging 30 points per game. Is it fair to say that you have a different role than in Giessen?

My role is to win games and make the team I’m playing for a contender. In Giessen I had to sacrifice my scoring to help our team because of the system we played. With Bensheim I am looked at as a scorer again who will put pressure on other teams defenses. For me what ever it takes to win.

How cool is it to be the number one scoring option and suddenly being a walking bucket. Is this something that you feel comfortable doing?

I think a lot of people forgot I can score the ball. I work hard on my game and skills . Every team I have played on in my 8 years pro I was the leading scorer. Even last year my ppg decreased but I was still the main/ leading scorer of the championship team. This is nothing new to me. I am comfortable with my role for sure and blessed to be in this position.

You shot an incredible 92% from the field 13/14. Can you remember ever shooting so well in a game?

Honestly this game means a lot to me because I scored in the flow of the game and let the shots come to me. I was happy with the reads I made of when to pass and when to score. I’m also grateful for my teammates for playing through me when I did get hot. I was so locked in I didn’t even notice I only missed once. I had higher scoring games but this game is one of the best given the 92% shooting that’s nearly a perfect game!!

You next play against Lich against top player Johannes Lischka. When do you remember first hearing about him when you came to Germany?

Lischka is a very talented player. I played a ton of games against him when I was in Giessen. He has always been a tough match up. Very skilled player with inside and outside game. I think this will be a fun game this weekend.

Bensheim has given up many points in the first 2 games. What does the team still need to do on the defensive end to cut down on allowing points?

I think sometimes we get caught up in focusing on our offense and we don’t close out the defensive possessions enough. I think our defense is good but if a team gets second and third efforts they are more likely to score. I think once we start focusing on that aspect our opponents points will decrease.

What has been your take on the Celtics scandal around head coach Ume Udoka?

For me I have no comment. I wish them the best and hope they can get through this tough time.

Thanks Chris for the chat.

Prince Ali (193-SG-1996, college: UCLA) is a 193cm guard that was born in the Bronx, New York and grew up in Florida and will be playing his third professional season and first in Germany with the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. He played his rookie season with at Baerum Basket Bekkestua (Norway-BLNO) averaging 24.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.0apg, 1.0spg and last season played with Easycharger Palencia (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 13.1ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 53.9%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 73.7%. He began his basketball career with Pembroke Pines Charter High School and then also got early experience with The Sagemont School and Southern Stampede (AAU). He then played at USC (NCAA) from 2015-2020 playing a total of 114 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about his career. The Hakro Merlins Crailsheim recently let him go.

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

Currently I am in Thailand. Basketball has been treating me well since the day I picked it up. It’s more of an obsessive hobby these days I must admit.
Congrats on signing with German team Hakro Merlins Crailsheim.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball. A few of your ex UCLA teammates Bryce Alford and Isaac Hamilton played here in the past.

Thank you. I don’t know much about the country Germany if we are being honest. However, I am open to learning. Just from watching BBL games from prior seasons and speaking to some guys who’ve played in the league, I get the sense that the league is highly competitive, uptempo, and physical.

How were the talks with head coach Sebastian Gleim? What kind of an impression did you get from him? In the Merlins press release you stated you believed the concept of coach Gleim. What about his philosophy was most appealing to you?

Coach from the conversations that we’ve had seems like a pretty straightforward individual. His style of play, along with the role he foresees was one of the major deciding factors for me to join the club.

A little side note. In the last years this club was a huge help aiding guys like Trae Bell-Haynes reach the ACB, Haywood Highsmith reach the NBA again and TJ Shorts be a BBL MVP candidate. Does knowing that give you added self-confidence that your route in the BBL also be positive?

Sure, I am aware. It helps knowing of course, however, ultimately every individual’s path differs. Circumstances and outcomes always play a role. With that being said, I am confident that my experience in the BBL will be positive.

You had a very solid season in the Spanish Leb Gold. What kind of player will the fans see in Prince Ali?

Thank you. With me, fans will see an uptempo, high energy, creative basketball player.

Let’s talk a bit about your game. You’re a 193 cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

To compare myself to one individual is quite difficult. I learn from so many. However, Kobe, MJ, Kyrie, Milos Teodosic, CJ Mccollum, Jimmy Butler, Demar Derozan to name a few are some of the players who I absolutely love to watch.

You continue to develop as a scorer and have the advantage that you can play 3 positions. What other strengths does your game incorporate?

I can score if asked of me. A focus of mine currently is developing as a playmaker. Seeing a play develop seconds before it actually happens. I am a good passer now. But I know I can be much better. I can defend now, but it’s the same, I can be better. I rebound okay for my position, but this is also something that is a continuing development. I honestly seek to develop in all aspects of my game.

Your three pointer continues to be a work in progress. How would you classify your three development since finishing in the NCAA? Do you feel like you are on course of becoming a 40% shooter?

I just continue to get reps. And more reps. I’ve improved as a shooter since college. For me, an incremental improvement is a win. At some point, I will eventually shoot 40% and higher from three point land. It could be this year or the following. The reps will remain consistent and we just go from there.

How would you classify your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you want to be in 2-3 years?

If you ask me, I am an okay defender at this point in my career. If you ask someone else, the answer might be different. I am athletically gifted, with good instinct so I have an advantage. The technicalities and fundamentals of defense are different. I watch some of the best defenders in the game and study their movements and fundamentals. Ron Artest. Jrue Holiday. Jimmy B. Mikal Bridges to name a few. In 2-3 years, I want to be considered one of the best defenders in Europe.

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

Every single area where I spot a weakness, I work on it and just continue to get reps.

Last season you played with Easycharger Palencia (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 13.1ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 53.9%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 73.7%. How important was playing your first full season and development of your game? What strides do you feel did your game make in Spain?

Very Important. Major thanks to the coaching staff and my teammates there. I feel from start to finish was a work in progress. The coaches allowed me the opportunity to play freely and this allowed me to become better in so many different areas. This year, I became a better passer! I became a better defender. I feel as if the experience overall was a major success. We had a winning season and made the final four. I can honestly say that throughout the year, I developed as not only a basketball player, but also as a person

What memories will you always have of veteran Bamba Fall? He played in the NCAA and in the D-League. Were you able to have some meaningful chats with him about basketball and life?

Bamba is one of my favorite people in this world. Nothing but love for him. More so than basketball we were really able to connect and have deep meaningful conversations about this life that we all live

You played your rookie season in Norway. How much of an effect did COVID have on you finding a team in 20-21? How tough was it landing in Norway so late?

It was a great experience in Norway. I’m sure covid had an effect, but more a positive effect then negative for me. I was able to learn a lot about who I really am in Norway

You only played 3 games in Norway. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Nothing in particular honestly. I was absolutely ready to leave America and experience something different

You had to wait so long to find the Norway job then played 3 games and then the season was over. How tough was the phase leading up to getting the Spain job? Did you have to do some soul searching or did you ever lose faith in the process?

My season ended in Norway prematurely. I decided to move to Africa at that point and start fresh. 6 months. 6 very long months. Soul searching is an understatement. Never lost faith per se. I realized in those moments just how much of a blessing this beautiful game is to my life. The Spain job was a no-brainer. Palencia was the first team to call, and I accepted. Major shoutout to my agent Pedro Cruells ( InterAthletics Management) for navigating that deal

You played at UCLA from 2015-2020. What memories do you have of your freshman year playing along side Aaron Holiday? How competitive was the day to day battles in practice?

Aaron Holiday is one of the best basketball players I’ve ever competed against. He showed me more now in today’s time than then, what an NBA professional looks like. Day to Day was a battle. Everyone was a player.

In your 8th NCAA game you helped beat powerhouse Kentucky 87-77 netting 8 points in 12 minutes. What memories do you have of that game playing against many future NBA players like Jamaal Murray? Was that a game where you knew you had arrived in the NCAA?

I wouldn’t say I arrived. However, the dunk that I made in that game definitely made its rounds. It happened 7 years ago and I still see it. Just yesterday actually.

In 2016-2017 you took a red shirt year because of injury. Despite not playing how did you experience just being a part of the team and seeing Lonzo Ball play his only NCAA season?

Lonzo is another NBA pro that I was able to watch and speak with on a day to day basis. That was a very fun team to be a part of and just watch. That team had a very high tempo. It was a positive learning experience.

You had many great games at UCLA, but where do you rank the exciting win over Oregon where you scored 22 points?

That was a fun game. Probably one of my best games as a Bruin honestly speaking.

You played for a share of coaches with Steve Alford, Murry Bartow and Mick Cronin. How did these guys help groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Everybody is ultimately a teacher, and a student. All three of these individuals taught me invaluable lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Aaron Holiday

Aaron

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

A lot of guys man. Jayson Tatum comes to mind. His teammate Jaylen Brown. My former teammate Aaron Holiday. A Lot of different guys

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time

Isaac Hamilton
Tom Welsh
Micah Speight
Gyorgy Goloman
Tony Parker

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

hahaha.

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


I actually enjoyed the sequel, man hahahah. Thank you for this interview my man. I appreciate you show this guy some love. Enjoy your summer!

Thanks Prince for the chat

Arkim Robertson (208-C-1994, college: CS Fullerton) is a 28 year old 208cm center from Grenada playing his 5th professional season and first with Union Neuchatel Basket (Switzerland-SBL). Last season he played with the Lugano Tigers (Switzerland-SBL) averaging 18.2ppg, Reb-2 (10.1rpg), 2.2apg, Blocks-3 (1.2bpg), FGP: 58.7%, FT: 66.1%. In 2020-2021 he played with BC Adria Oil Skrljevo (Croatia-Premijer Liga) averaging 17.1ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 69.3%, FT: 59.3%. In his first 2 professional seasons he got experience in Argentina,Brazil and Chille. He began his basketball career at Western Oklahoma State College (JUCO) and then finished at California State University, Fullerton (NCAA). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a test game in Germany against the wiha Panthers Schwenninge

Thanks Arkim for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season for Union Neuchatel Basket (Switzerland-SBL) and playing a test game in Germany today against Pro A team wiha Panthers Schwenningen. Have you been able to explore Germany in the last year as you were living in Switzerland?

Since I have been in Switzerland my two years I have never been to Germany so this is my first time ever going there.

If someone had told you in the summer of 2016 after your last JUCO season that in the next 5 years you would live in countries like Brazil, Argentina, Chille, Croatia and Switzerland and play the game you love for a living what would you have said?

If someone had told me that I would have said no way because i would not have believed it, but now that I’m here it is a blessing to have the opportunity to play the game I love and travel the world do so, so I am grateful.

You averaged only 4,0ppg in your senior year in the NCAA but still turned pro. The first 2 seasons in South America were tough, but in the last 2 years have become a very good player and put up good stats. What kept you going in those first few years to bring you this far?

My first season I was just figuring who I am as a player and how I can be useful to any team. So I stayed motivated everyday knowing one day my time will come where all the working I am putting in will reward itself.

You had an incredible season last season with the Lugano Tigers establishing yourself in the Swiss league. Seriously how can you top that season? What is your mindset like going into this season?

Yes last season was good individually it was but this season I feel like I can show more in terms of playing better defense being a better leader, passing and also scoring the basketball.

Let’s talk a little about your game. You’re a 208cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I’m actually 209 hahaha but I would say my game is kind of like Tim Duncan, I post up a lot and every now and then I take a mid range jumper but I love posting up and I’ve watched Tim Duncan a lot when I was younger.

Would it be fair to say that you can do it all except shoot the three. Is the three something you want to incorporate into your game down the road?

Hahaha I think so but definitely, I would love to put that part into my game as well because I think I am capable of making the threes so I will be working on that part of my game when the summer comes but all for now I will be posting up and taking mid range shots occasionally hahaha

You can score and rebound very well. What other strengths does your game incorporate? Talk a bit about your defensive game. How would you describe yourself as a shot blocker now and where do you still want to get to?

Well I think I am a pretty good defender when it comes to defending my position, I love to come from the weak side to block shots, I also live chasing down blocks to but what I would love to get better in is defending the position four really good and the three position as well.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to climb the basketball ladder?

Facing up that is one thing I have been working on a lot, slowing down the game and reading the defenders, free throw shooting of course and also picking my spots on the floor being more consistent with making my shots.

Last season you played with the Lugano Tigers (Switzerland-SBL)Score-4 (18.2ppg), Reb-2 (10.1rpg), 2.2apg, Blocks-3 (1.2bpg), FGP: 58.7%, FT: 66.1%. You turned into a double double monster. How did your game grow that season?

Well I figured out how they were guarding me and I just adjusted myself to it, I know I would get double teamed every time so I had to make my move very fast, I also knew I am one of the strongest guys in the league so I was using that to my advantage, I have a feel for the rebound so I would put myself in position to get it every time, for me it was all about adjusting to the different types of defense’s and players.

You had a crazy 45/20 game against Boncourt and shot 79% from the floor. What memories do you have of this masterpiece?

Oh man that was a good game and the reason it was a good game was because we were going at one another, it was me and a guy called Brent, I just remember I had like 18 points and my teammates were telling Arkim they can’t stop you get 50 and in my mind I’m thinking okay today is one of those days where I’ll go off and every time I touch the ball I was scoring and I remember I was seeing the rim big in my eyes, that was a cool moment to have.

You had your breakout season overseas with BC Adria Oil Skrljevo (Croatia-Premijer Liga) Score-4 (17.1ppg), 7.0rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 69.3%, FT: 59.3%. What kind of mindset did you have coming into the season? Your confidence must have been well since you had finished the season before solidly in Croatia?

Well I was confident prior to the last year because I knew I have played there before and the season was cut short because of corona so if that did not happen who knows how that season would have ended hahaha. My confidence was up because I believe in my self and what I can do and then I was working on improving my game and getting stronger as well.

You played against top address Cibona 5 times and played well each game. Did you realize after these type of games that you could play at a high level?

When I played in Brazil I started to realize that I could play at a high level. I was playing against guys who came from the G league and guys who played in the NBB and then when I came and playing in Croatia against those teams I realized I could really compete with that and I wasn’t afraid.

Do keep tabs on top Croatian guys like Planinic and Prkacin where you held your own against?

Not really but I do know he was supposed to get into to NBA draft that’s all I know and I hope he does get to go to the NBA because he is really good, I enjoyed my time playing against him.

In your second season you began with CD Asociacion de Basquetbol Temuco (Chile-Liga Nacional) and then moved to BC Adria Oil Skrljevo (Croatia-Premijer Liga) averaging 11.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 59.0%, FT: 50.0%. How valuable was finishing in Croatia so strong? Did you see that as your last chance?

It was valuable for me because I was cut from Chile because I sprained my ankle and I had five ligaments that were damaged, so I took that very personal into my next job so my mind set was to go in strong and finish strong.

How vital was a vet like Mark Dorris in your first Croatia gig? He has seen it all as a professional?


Mark Dorris was a very good guy to have around he taught me a lot not just basketball but networking and how to conduct myself as a professional

You played your rookie season first with Progreso de General Roca (Argentina-La Liga Argentina) and then Pato Basquete (Brazil-Liga Ouro) averaging 8.4ppg, 6.1rpg, FGP: 53.3%, FT: 59.4%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake up call was when I knew that I was far away from home and I couldn’t go to my mom to figure out stuff no more, like why I’m playing bad, what am I not doing to help my team stuff like really woke me up fast.

Argentina was rough but at least you finished out your rookie season in Brazil well. What positives could you take from your Brazil time?

I went to Brazil and I played pretty good. I love how the played Brazil it’s nice, it’s physical to so that’s why I love it.

You began your career with Western Oklahoma State College (JUCO) and played 2 seasons there. Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO has described the experience one as very challenging and tough, but one that they wouldn’t have traded in for the world. How was it for you?

JUCO was hard haha I’m not going to lie to you but it is a part of my life where if I had to do it again I would because I loved it, it shaped me and prepared me for the future.

You then finished at California State University, Fullerton (NCAA) playing 59 games and averaging 4/4 stats. How was the whole NCAA experience for you? Do you feel like you made the most of the 15 minutes you got per game in those 2 years?

The whole NCAA experience for me was amazing I wish I could’ve done it again to be honest I had a lot of fun playing with those guys, yes I felt like I made the most of the minutes I played I did what my coach asked me to do it and I was having fun doing it, so yes I did made the most out of it.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Johnny Wang?

Me of course hahaha but Johnny he’s a good player, I like him.

Who is the best player that you ever battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Carson Edwards and I can’t remember the other guy name there were three of them from Purdue.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My five best teammates of all time that is hard hahaha I’ll have to say Kyle from Cal state Khalid also from Cal state Fullerton, Phillip and Luka from Croatia and Markel Humphrey in Switzerland.

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

My personal Mount Rushmore has to be Bill Russell, Kareem, Lebron, Kobe and Jordan.

What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?

Me personally I think they both great players but I grew up in a Lebron era and I have seen the things he is able to do over the years and it’s just amazing to watch,I would pick Lebron because of his all around game.

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

Yes I did, I thought it was funny but not as the first one so yeah hahaha maybe they should have left that one alone.

Thanks Arkim for the chat.

Anthony Hodge is a 32 year old 178cm guard that is playing for German Regionalliga team Bergedorf this season. He began his basketball career at Hilbert (NCAA3). He began his professional career in the States playing for various PBL teams like the Buffalo 716ers , the Western NY Thundersnow (PBL)
and Chautauqua Hurricanes (PBL). He then found experience in Mexico and then headed overseas playing in Spain. Last season he got his first gig in Germany for Regionalliga 2 team VFL Loenigan. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

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

Hi thank you for having me. At the moment I am currently in Castrop Rauxel, Germany. The Basketball life is treating me very well. It’s given me many opportunities to see the world and experience different things.

Your 32 years old and are the best example of a guy living the basketball dream. You just keep grinding and don’t stop. What has kept you going in the last 10 years to keep going?

I can say what keeps me going is my determination and will power to push forward no matter what to achieve my goals and dreams in life. I grew up in Brooklyn New York and you have to be mentally tough to live there. And that has helped me through this journey. Because during this basketball journey you get a lot of No’s and unanswered messages but you can’t let that get to you. You have to believe in yourself and trust the grind. More importantly stay true to yourself because that one yes is everything.

You obviously are always hungry and are never satisfied. Could one say you have to be one of those guys that has a permanent chip on their shoulder?

Yes I’m always hungry and never satisfied because I want to keep improving. I have a dream and personal goal I want to reach and if I can see it in my head and feel it in my bones to the point it feels real. I know it’s possible with hard work. My mom always told me anything is possible with hard work and to always fight for what you want no matter what others say. All your work is now starting to pay off. It never gets easier for a player the older they get.

I can imagine thinking about never giving up and knowing one day it will pay off has driven you as well?

Yes that has driven me. Especially when you get good news or a little bit of hope. But I always had this feeling like something was telling me keep going don’t give up. I just really believed in myself and with God in my corner and a little bit of luck anything is possible I felt. I just kept my head down and grinded harder and harder. I knew something had to give and God will present me with an opportunity so I had to stay ready so I didn’t have to get ready.

After bouncing around in the States and being in Mexico and Spain, you made your way to Germany last season to play with 2 Regionalliga team VFL Loeningen. I can imagine Germany will always be a special place for you. What do you appreciate most about Germany?

I mean I haven’t really seen much of Germany yet. But I do appreciate how diverse it is and that most people speak and can understand English lol

You were a big part for VFL Loeningen remaining in the 2 Regionalliga as you helped the club to 11 wins and averaging 30,0ppg. Did it feel at times that you were a man playing among kids?

I didn’t think of it that way. I just lead by example and did my part to impact the game in every way possible and to do whatever it took to win games. I played team basketball and my team believed in me. I showed them I can impact and dominate a game in different ways. I wanted everyone to feel involved. This was why we were so successful. And we got better with each game.

Congrats on signing with Regionalliga team Bergedorf. You have moved up a level to the 4th league in Germany. How excited are you for a new challenge with the Hamburg team?

Thank you. I’m very excited and can’t wait to help this team achieve its goals. I welcome this challenge and I’m ready

How ironic is it to be from Hamburg New York to now living in the great German city Hamburg. Your going from a 55,000 city to a 1,8 million city. Is that very overwhelming for you?

I’m actually from New York City born and raised in Brooklyn New York, I went to college in Hamburg Buffalo. So I’m used to the big city. Lol so I would fit right in.

I think. You will see many new things in Hamburg, Germany, but what is one thing that you will always find in Hamburg, New York and not in Hamburg Germany?

Hmm that’s pretty hard to say since I’ve never been to Hamburg so I don’t know what they have. But I would say 24 hr gyms and grocery stores. But I heard many things about Hamburg so I’m excited to see what the city has.

I’m sure that you will do well in the Regionalliga. American guards usually do very well in the Regionalliga. With what expectations are you going into the season and what kind of Anthony Hodge can we await?

I’m going into this season with the expectation to help the team be successful and to make the playoffs and try to win the league. I want to get Player of the Year and leave my mark on this league. Y’all will see a player that has no quit in him and who will be the hardest worker on both ends of the floor and giving his all each every play and every game. I’m going to do whatever it takes to help my team win as many games as possible.

Last season you were within 15 minutes of watching Pro A games in Artland and Vechta. Did you take in some games and how do you feel could your game translate in the Pro A?

Sadly I did not get a chance to see any games live but I did watch some games online. And from watching I feel very confident my game will translate very well into Pro A I feel I can score with the best of them but most importantly I can play both ends of the floor at a high level and I can impact a game in different ways.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 178cm guard. If one had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill? Maybe a Nate Robinson?

Hmm some people would say Nate Robinson or Isaiah Thomas because of my scoring ability. But I’m a great defender especially for my height. So it’s kind of hard to say because I hear different names haha but those are the two names that always comes up.

You’re a guy that can score, but what other strengths does your game incorporate?

I would say defense, playmaking, doing the little things that don’t show up on the stat sheets and my IQ for the game and how I see certain things.

Talk a little about your defense. What kind of defender are you and could we see you winning the steal crown?


I’m a hard nose defender and can be very annoying for other guards I’ve been told. I definitely can see myself winning it with the help of my teammates for sure.

Your not 22 anymore but 32. On what areas are you working on now as your career is taking off in your 30’s?

I’ve been working on playing even smarter and being more patient. But I been working on everything to improve in all aspects of the game. I also make sure to take care of my body even though my body still feels 24 haha

You played at Hilbert College (NCAA3). Your senior year was a special one. What memories do you have of winning the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference’s regular season league title?

Man that year was for sure a special one. We were a family and had so much fun. But what made it so special for me was the game we won the regular season title, it was senior night and my mom and sisters came to see my play. It was the first time my mom ever saw me play. And to winning in front of her was the greatest feeling ever.

How did head coach Rob deGrandpre groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He believed in me a lot and trusted me. He never gave me any special treatment and made sure I put 110% percent effort into the games and practices. He also told me I can do whatever I put my mind too as long as I put the work in and he made sure I was on top of my game. He even supported me in every way even after I graduated.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dan Mcfarland?

Me for sure haha but He was a tough guy to guard though for sure.

In 2013 after graduation you embarked on a professional career. Very few NCAA 3 guys make it. How difficult was the process and how big of an issue was your height?

It was very difficult because all people saw was my height. But there was one guy who saw more than just my height. Without him there’s no Mexico so I’m beyond grateful for him.

You had experience in the semi pro league PBL playing at home with teams like the Buffalo 716ers, Western Thunderstorm and Chautauqua Hurricanes. What memories did you have of this time. How grueling was the competitiveness? Was it more bonding or guys just focused on getting to a higher league?

Oh yeah the competition was very tough because there were a lot of D1 players and D-league player in the league. So I learned a lot and had to hold my own. It was kill or be killed so you had to bring your A game every time even to practice because someone is always after your spot. Survival of the fittest and because of that I definitely became stronger mentally and physically as a player.

You must have had a day job. Talk a little about how you kept busy during the day and what kept your grind going at night in the lab?

Yes I worked during the day but I would hit the gym before work and after work. I made sure no matter what I put my work in.

You then got a job in Mexico. How refreshing was that and how vital was that for your self-confidence?

Man playing in Mexico was refreshing and definitely gave me confidence and hope. I knew I could do this. Because once I got to Mexico I didn’t look back I put all my hard work to the test and it did not let me down. I showed out and shined. Then one thing led to another and you meet someone who likes your game and boom anything can happen. You know how it is you; never know who’s watching or who someone may know.

You then made the step to Valencia, Spain. How did that come about and what kind of an experience was that for you?

So Spain came about because after Mexico I got invited to a summer league tournament in Italy where my team won the championship and I won best Point of the summer league award. And I had two players on my team that played in Spain and told me to connect a guy named Brad. Brad has an exposure camp in Spain and so I bet on myself and went and the rest was history.

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

Edwin Ubiles

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time

Kristofer Chase Justin Vice Tevor Stark Nelson Jimenez Corey Lewis

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

That’s very hard hahaha But I’ll say Michael Jordan LeBron James Magic Johnson Bill Russell Larry Bird For now but that may change every soon haha

What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?

They are both great in my opinion but MJ has more of a killed instinct where LeBron is more of a team guy and pass first but it’s different era’s and two different players.

Did you see the sequel to the classic coming to America?


Shouldn’t they have left it alone? They should of left it alone but it wasn’t that bad though.

Thanks Anthony for the chat.

Tyler Nelson (191-PG-1995, college: Fairfield) is a 27 year old 190cm guard from Lawrence, Mass playing his 5th professional season and third with the Rostock SeaWolves. Last season he helped the club win the Pro A title and help them over up to the easyCredit BBL averaging 16.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 56.2%, 3PT-3 (46.2%), FT: 89.5%. he played his first 2 professional seasons with the Greensboro Swarm playing a total 71 G-league games averaging 8.7ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 81.4% and 6.4ppg, 1.1rpg, FGP: 31.4%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 84.6%. He began his basketball career at Central Catholic high school and then played at Fairfield (NCAA) from 2014-2018 playing a total of 126 NCAA games and averaged 20,0ppg in his last 2 years. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the summer about basketball.

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

Life is good. I am back home in Boston Massachusetts enjoying the off season and training for next years season.

You have resigned with Rostock. How big of a motivation was being able to play in a top 5 league in Europe with the easyCredit BBL?

Yes it was a great to resign with Rostock in the BBL. I think it’s a great fit for me and chance to show what I can do at the BBL level.

Your playing your third season in Rostock. Has Rostock become like a second home? Your 43 minutes and 24 miles from Marblehead away. Did the water play a role growing up in Lawrence?

Yes I really like a Rostock and it’s nice city on the water. I grew up on the coast in Massachusetts so I like being near the water.

I’m sure also that the fans played a huge role in you wanting to come back. Have you ever seen so passionate fans like the SeaWolves in your life?


Yes the fans are great in Rostock. After we won the championship last year in ProA the fans gave us a great party. I’m excited to be back

Congrats on winning the title over the Tigers Tuebingen. They were the number one team in the Pro A in the standings. The games were tight. How much of a role did your team experience play?

It was a big role because we had such a close team and good chemistry and I think that was a big reason why we won.

The team had a losing streak going into the playoffs but then had a 8-1 record to finish the season. What was key after the loss to PS Karlsruhe for the turnaround? Was there a team meeting or something? What happened then that allowed the team to sparkle the rest of the way?

We had Covid and just struggled a little at the end of the season but we picked it up for the playoffs and played really well together.

What was the biggest strength of the team? Was it a combination of all knowing their roles and having that touch of unselfishness?

Team chemistry and trust in each other was the biggest strength and we played well with each other

How much of a pleasure was it being teammates with guards Chris Carter, Jordan Roland and Brad Loesing. What did each guy give the team best for the success?

All of them were great people and players but brought something different to the team that was a big reason we won.

Was your buzzer beater against Jena one of your most memorable shots in your career? How do you remember the play and execution?

Yes definitely I hit a buzzer beater in college but to hit a buzzer beater to win in the playoffs and for promotion to BBL is an unbelievable feeling.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

Thats a good question, I think my game is close to JJ Redick and CJ McCallum.

You were a prolific scorer in the NCAA and found your touch again last season. What other strengths does your game incorporate?

I think I am much more than just a shooter and I showed that last year in Rostock by being the leading scorer and also making a lot of plays in the pick n roll.

Since your senior year at Fairfield (NCAA) and in the G-League you have been a 40% shooter from outside. How confident are you that you can become a consistent 40% shooter from outside?

I’m very confident that I can continue to shoot and score like this at the BBL level next season.

How vital is it for your game to continue to be a good defender and not get that label of just being that scorer?


Yes I think that the better my defense gets the more my game will keep improving and I can play at the highest levels in Europe.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most so that you can continue to move up the basketball ladder?

Defense

What memories do you have of playing for Dirk Bauermann? How did you learn to defend better under his guidance in your rookie season overseas?

Dirk was an amazing coach and knew so much about basketball. He gave me my first chance in Europe and believed in me and knew how good I could be.

You played your first 2 seasons in the G-League. For a guy that played at a less known school, you did a good job holding your own. How was that whole G-League experience for you? What do you feel was the most important thing you gained from the 2 years?


I just learned how to be a professional and to find a role on the team that helped win.

How competitive is the battle for minutes? Is it true that you can be in the gym until 4 am score 30 points, but if your not under the radar of an NBA game, it doesn’t matter what you do, because you won’t play heavy minutes. How did you experience that?


Yes I think at the NBA level you need to find a role on a team not everybody can be a scorer.

You played against so many talented guys in the G-League. Do you have an interesting story from your 2 years where you had an interesting experience with an NBA player that you won’t forget?

Devonte Graham and Dwayne Bacon

You played at Fairfield (NCAA) from 2014-2018. You improved your scoring each season. How do you remember your NCAA career. What kind of player were you in 2014 and what kind were you when you left in 2018?

Yes every season I tried to improve my game and add something to it. When I first got there I was just a shooter and by 2018 I was an all around offensive player

As a freshman you were hit in your first game with a 50 point loss against Duke that had 7 future NBA players. What do you remember from that game? Were you nervous and which Duke player stood out the most to you?

They were a great team ranked #1 and won the Championship that year.

You had so many great games at Fairfield. What was your personal favorite and best game?

Probably my senior year when I scored 35 points and set the all time scoring record at my school.

How did head coach Sydney Johnson groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Sydney was a great coach and mentor to me and believed in my game. He knew I could play at the professional level and he also played high level in Europe so he knew what it takes to get there.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jerry Johnson?


Me

Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that would go to the NBA?


Dennis smith Jr

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Too many to name!

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

MJ, Kobe, Lebron, Magic, Bird

What is your personal opinion of the neverneding debate of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?


Jordan

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


No I didn’t see it yet.

Thanks Tyler for the chat.

Time goes on and on and in so many things in life time does fly by. It is a word I often use in questions with players I hadn’t interviewed in a long time. Time flies by is one of those things that every one has thoughts about. For example that wonderful last summer vacation is still in one’s thoughts at Christmas time even though months have passed or it seems like it was yesterday where Germany won the World Cup in Brazil in 2014. For some these things may seem distant and for others not so distant. It pretty much depends on each person and how they see certain events and the past. For me time flies like crazy especially in basketball. When I look back at certain things and see when they happened, I am often amazed that it was so long ago. For instance Myles Hesson (198-F-1990, agency: Octagon Europe) is a player that I covered early in his career when he came to Germany in 2012 to play for Weissenhorn and then Giessen. When I saw him on the roster of Great Britan at the 2022 Euro, I right away had to think about 2012 when I met him for the first time. In a span of 3 years from 2012-2015, we did 19 interviews. Then from 2015-2020 none. Our last one was 2 years ago. Time flies. He had the same thoughts as I in 2020. ‘Yeah it has been a while. It definitely feels like it has gone by quite fast’, said Myles Hesson in 2020. He played his first Euro in 2013 and it took him 9 years to get there again to Milan, Italy where the group games were played. 9 years ago, Great Britan won 1 game, but this time the competition was a lot more difficult to handle. ‘I am older and much more experienced now so mentally I knew what to expect. But this time was way more difficult as far as our lack of preparation’, stressed Myles Hesson. Great Britan was at a disadvantage right from the start as the general competition is a lot different than in 2013. ‘The teams are better now than they where in 2013, there’s a lot more NBA players and the overall standard of European players has increased’, stated Myles Hesson.

Great Britain had a lot of experience at the Euro 2022 with Myles Hesson being one of the more experienced on the squad. He held the team together with other veteran Gabriel Olaseni who has also played in Germany professionally. ‘He is a great person on and off the court. He is a role model to us all on how you should be as a professional athlete. You can count on him to show up offensively and defensively every night’, stated Myles Hesson. He came to Italy with 13 years of professional experience and has played more than 300 professional games. He has played most of his career in France for teams like like JDA Dijon Bourgogne (France-ProA), BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral (France-ProA), Nanterre 92 (France-ProA) and ES Chalon-Sur-Saone (France-Jeep ELITE ProA). He has shown his consistency in France averaging in double figures in scoring for a season in 4 of 6 seasons and also played parts of 3 seasons in Germany. He played last season in Japan with the Saga Ballooners (Japan-B2 League) playing 42 games averaging 21.1ppg, 10.0rpg, 4.2apg, Steals-2 (2.1spg), Blocks-5 (1.0bpg), FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 77.1% and will play this season with the Kagawa Five Arrows (Japan-B2 League).He and Great Britain played their group games in the beautiful and historic city Milan. Even if the team didn’t win any games, he totally enjoyed the moment off the court. ‘Milan is a really nice city, the food and weather is great, not much more you could ask for off the court’, remembered Myles Hesson. Great Britan had problems in every game and lost by an average score of 24 points in each game. England obviously had difficulty winning games and allowing many points, but it didn’t have to do that other teams were more talented and deeper. ‘We weren’t at our best so it’s hard to say. Having only a few days preparation and playing without our two best point guards was always going to be an uphill battle’, expressed Myles Hesson. Even if Great Britain didn’t have a great Euro, the country was able to take positives for the future of basketball there. ‘We can compete with the best teams in Europe, we showed that in qualifications, and at times during the tournament. It’s hard to make judgements from this tournament as we where missing some of our key players. We went with an experienced squad, there is a lot of young talent coming up in Great Britain. One to watch for sure is Kayne Henry who is starting his pro career this season in Germany’, warned Myles Hesson.

The ex Eisbaeren Bremerhaven player who believes that Steph Curry is in a league of his own and changed the game with his shooting ability and doesn’t believe that we will ever see a player like that again played against many great countries this time and will have countless memories, but one that probably stood out most was before his last game against Italy which was lost 90-56 despite scoring 18 points. Queen Elisabeth had just passed away and before tipoff there was a moment of silence which was very emotional for everyone. ‘It was a surreal moment, hearing different words to the national anthem Queen Elisabeth sadly passed away’, remembered Myles Hesson. He held his own against Croatia pouting in 18 points and grabbing 5 rebounds against NBA guys like Saric, Bogdanovic, Hezonja and Zubac. He was one of the best players on the court that day. ‘It was a good experience playing against high level talent, it’s what every competitor wants to do, it brings out the best in you’, remembered Myles Hesson. He also had a very solid showing against Greece putting up 13/3/4 stats, but unfortunately wasn’t rewarded with a future grand children story about playing the Greak Freak Giannis who was being rested. Greece still put up 93 points despite not having his services and getting an off night from ex NBA player Tyler Dorsey. He gave his 2 cents about the chances of Greece before the round of 16 was played. ‘Greece are a very good team, they have depth in all positions and will be a tough team to beat at full strength. I think they could go ahead and win it all, I wouldn’t like to bet against Giannis’, warned Myles Hesson. He scored in double figures in all 5 games averaging 14,6ppg and 4,2rpg. As a die hard competitor, it would be strange if he was content with his own performance, because he is never totally satisfied with his game and is always striving to get better. ‘I played well in spurts but wasn’t able to maintain the level I wanted throughout all the games’, commented Myles Hesson.

The ex ES Chalon-Sur-Saone (France-Jeep ELITE ProA) guard who saw the sequel to the classic Coming To America and didn’t mind it and enjoyed it for what it was witnessed an amazing Euro 2022. He saw many great teams in his group, but there were also many other great countries battling and giving their all that will forever be remembered. Finland reached the quarterfinals and other countries like Estonia and the Ukraine were very tough and gave basketball fans much joy. ‘Estonia really came to play and compete. They prepared well and played a good style of basketball which suits their strengths as players. Ukraine have always been a tough team to play against. They are strong, physical and never give up’, added Myles Hesson. He may not have battled Luka Doncic eye to eye at the 2022 Euro, but surely saw enough of the high light video’s that were produced after his nightly explosions in Cologne, Germany. He knows already now after 4 years of Doncic in the NBA where his legacy will be at when all is said and done. ‘He is one of the most elite basketball players I have ever seen, he will for sure go down as one of the greatest ever by the time he retires’, warned Myles Hesson. But in Milan he did get to show the world that he can stand up and beat other NBA players with a play. In the game against Serbia, he went head to head against current Atlanta Hawk Bogdan Bogdanovic who has averaged 15,0ppg in the last 3 NBA seasons and won’t forget it. ‘I made a circus shot and1 play Vs Croatia against Bojan Bogdanovic’, smiled Myles Hesson. When fans in Japan hear that he may hear Bikkuri blurted out by that fanatic Japanese die hard fan and get startled. In Europe it would mean Oh my God. That definitely will get him off to a good start with everyone when he arrives to his new team the Kagawa Five Arrows (Japan-B2 League).Tags : MYLES HESSON, KAGAWA FIVE ARROW

Tags : MYLES HESSON, KAGAWA FIVE ARROWS, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Mikael Hopkins (206-F-1993, college: Georgetown) is a 29 year old 206cm forward from Hyattsville, Maryland that has played professionally for 7 years and last played with Unahotels Reggio Emilia (Italy-Serie A) averaging 13.1ppg, Reb-3 (7.5rpg), 1.4apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 74.7%. He began his basketball career at Dematha high school an dthen played at Georgetown (NCAA) from 2011-2015 playing a total of 127 games. He began his professional career in 2015 in Turkey where he played 4 seasons as well as in Bulgaria and Slovenia. He recently had the great opportunity to battle at the 2022 Euro with Hungary.He spoke to germanhoops.com about his time at the Euro.

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

I’m currently in Italy and I can say basketball life is good. About to start the season that’s always fun especially when you have new teammates and coaches. I’m just ready to get started.

You just played at the 2022 European Championships with Hungry. It is rare for Americans to be in a situation like this. Guys like Thad Mcfadden, Nick Weiler-Babb and Mike Tobey are some other guys for example. How did this great opportunity come about for you?

My agent presented the opportunity at the beginning of last season and I told him that I would definitely be happy to represent Hungary.

In a span of 5 days you played against Slovenia, France, Lithuania and Germany. Is it fair to say that that was the best competition you have ever played against as a professional with all the NBA guys you battled against?

Yea playing in the euro basket was crazy. Just all the talent on the court each night it was good to go against guys that play in the NBA and euro league level. The entire atmosphere was crazy and I’m happy I was able to play in it.

What kind of an experience was it playing against Luka Doncic. He had a good game but a few days later scorched Germany and France for 83 points combined. It all seems so automatic for him. What amazes you most about his game?

Luka is Luka he just a special talent. They craziest thing about his game is his pace. He never allows the defense to speed him up and also his shot making ability some of the shots he makes. Leave you asking how did he make that?

You didn’t win a game and averaged 8/3. What do you take away from this competition? Did you get to meet some players during off time that you really happy you could?

Yea we didn’t win a game but I was still able to compete and represent something other than myself but an entire country. And I saw all of the NBA guys we were all in the same hotel and sharing the same eating areas and elevators.

Last season you played for Unahotels Reggio Emilia (Italy-Serie A). After playing in Turkey, Slovenia and Croatia, what kind of an experience has it been hooping in Italy? How do you feel has your game profited from the style?

I love Italy. I think the league has good energy and excitement. A lot of the clubs want to put up a lot of points and that is always fun. I think the league fits my style because most teams don’t have really tall five position so I don’t have to deal with guarding bigger guys. And also I’m able to show my versatility being able to stretch the floor and play from the mid post.

You have played 7 pro seasons and remain so consistent. Do you have a special secret besides putting in the work every day in the gym crafting your game?

Only secret is to keep working and believe in yourself.

Would you agree that you’re a modern day forward in 2022? You have really developed a reliable outside shot in Slovenia.

Yea I think l am what a modern day forward would look like. My ability to shoot from the out side and also punish mismatch on switching is what every team would want. I honestly think I could play at the euro league level just haven’t had the opportunity.

You’re an incredible defender and great shot blocker. What NBA defender was always your role model and how would you describe your defensive game in 2022?

I don’t think I’m as good as a defender as Draymond Green or PJ Tucker but these are the guys I like to watch because they guard multiple positions but most of the time guys that are bigger than them. My role last season was to guard the ball screen, with hedging principal.

You played 2 seasons with KK Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (Slovenia-ABA League). Was this your most enjoyable time? You won a title and reached a final. Talk a little about your memories.

Cedevita was a great experience all around that was my first time playing at a high level as a pro and yes I was able to win a league championship. But the best experience would have to be playing against Red Star and Partizan. These are the type of environment you dream of playing in. Those fans really really love their teams.

What was it like being teammates with tough German Maik Zirbes? How were those battles in the paint during practice?

Big Maik that’s my guy. I honestly didn’t have to battle much with him in the paint. That year I played the four position so I didn’t have to wrestle with him. But he was a great teammate great person.

You played with Balkan Botevgrad (Bulgaria-NBL) winning a title and averaging 16.5ppg, Reb-4 (9.2rpg), 2.1apg, 1.1spg, Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 80.4%; and in the FIBA Europe Cup averaging 14.7ppg, Reb-4 (8.3rpg), 2.4apg, Blocks-1 (2.1bpg), FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 79.4%. What was special about this team in that season?

Balkan was the year everything started to change for me. I had great teammates but the main thing was coach Vidic. He believed in me and he trusted me and with that trust he allowed me to play the way I wanted. He was the first coach that really allowed me to show my versatility shooting dribbling post up. I had a lot of fun playing in Balkan and I will always love the club and team.

You played your first 3 seasons in Turkey. How vital was this time in your development and does it bother you that you never got an opportunity to play in the Turkish first division?

Playing in Turkey second league kind of made me the player I am now I was able to build my confidence as a pro. Even though I didn’t win many games I became a better offensive player because in that league the Americans have to score and you have to do it every game so that is where I kind of established that mentality. I still have some years left maybe I’ll end up there one day.

In 2017-2018 you split time with Yalova Group Belediye Spor (Turkey-TBL) averaging 16.1ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, 1.0bpg, 2FGP: 45.6%, 3FGP: 50.0%, FT: 81.9%, in Dec.’17 moved to Samsun BSB Anakent (Turkey-TBL) averaging 12.7ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 80.0%. What was it like spending time with 2 teams? You definitely put up good stats. Were the stays in some way memorable?

I enjoyed every year in Turkey all of the teams were a part of my journey and think it was good for me as a player.

What was it like being reunited with Hoyas teammate Markel Starks? Is he another good example of too many great guards in the world and too little NBA spots?

That was a lot of fun being able to play on the professional level with one of my childhood friends and college teammates. If anybody know Markel Starks he likes to work so he pushed me each day to get better and we also used to compete to see who would have better stats after the game so I think that helped both of us out.

In 2016-2017 you played with Samsunspor DSI (Turkey-TBL) averaging 14.2ppg, 10.8rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 73.7%. Your second season averaging double double stats. How refreshing was it proving twice early in your pro career that you could be so much more than just a role player in the NCAA?

In Samsun It was nice showing that I could be the main focal point of a team. That’s every players ‘dream. I just wish I was able to win more games but the stats I was putting up were great for my second year as a pro. Especially when I was known for being a role player it just showed that I was working.

You played your rookie season with Istanbul DSI (Turkey-TBL) averaging 16.6ppg, Reb-4 (10.9rpg), 1.1spg, Blocks-4 (1.6bpg), FGP: 52.9%, FT: 77.6%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being in Turkey and overseas where you knew that you were very far away from home?

My rookie year was tough. I knew my main focus was to be aggressive offensively and score or just put up good stats but that wasn’t the case. Those stats did nothing for me in the long run except build my confidence. I think if I would have won more games or been on more competitive teams I would not have spent my first three years in second division Turkey. Winning is honestly the most important thing in Europe and I had to learn that early.

How important was American Derek Williams for you as a rookie? Was he like a mentor for you? What was your fondest moment with him?

Derrick Williams was a great first teammate he had played in the same league the year before and he took me under his wing and just showed me how to deal with the management and coaches. But I enjoyed building a relationship with him we were together every day. I also had another American teammate that year Frank Robinson another great guy and I’m happy to call both of them big brothers.

You played at Georgetown (NCAA) from 2011-2015. That freshman team was incredible with great players like Otto Porter, Hollis Thompson, Henry Sims and Greg Whittingen. I always thought that was the team to win it all. Did the team underachieve?

Playing at Georgetown we had some great teams. I don’t think we underachieved, college basketball is tough and it’s a lot of great teams So I think we made the best of each other those years.

How special was the senior team? It reached the NCAA tournament not having the great talent of the freshman squad. How much fun was it finishing your career on that team?

Senior year was cool I had built relationships with guys that are life long brothers and we were able to make it to the big dance. The young freshmen had proved all year that they were ready to keep the basketball tradition alive Georgetown and honestly for me playing at Georgetown was a dream come true I’m from Washington DC so that’s all I knew growing up. And the radition there was crazy with future big name NBA guys.

How did legendary head coach John Thompson groom and prepare you bets for a professional basketball career?

Coach Thompson just constantly reminding us that if you wanted to take this game far you have to treat it like a job not just a game. And he knew the importance of hard work and also winning. It was a blessing being able to get to know him because he just stood for something bigger than himself. He changed the life of all basketball players that looked like me.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Otto Porter?

Me and Otto Never played but I would have won. He didn’t weigh enough in college haha

Who was the toughest player that you encountered in the NCAA that would reach the NBA?

The Toughest cover was Doug Mcdermot

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Quinn cook
Victor Oladipo
Jerian Grant
Jerami Grant
Otto Porter

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

Jordan
Lebron
Kobe
Shaq

What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James?

Michael Jordan is the greatest of all time

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

I haven’t seen the sequel. I’m going to check it out

Thanks Mikael for the chat.

Tags : MIKAEL HOPKINS, U

I can remember when the German basketball federation named Gordon Herbert (agency: BeoBasket ) new head coach of the national team in 2021, I didn’t have to stop to pause and even have worries about the future of German basketball, because I knew right away only good things could happen. I guess I had an advantage over other people mainly because I have covered him since his first tour of duty with the then Opel Skyliners in the 2003-2004 season. Back then I covered the exciting 2004 finals run for American Forces Network that provides news for the American miliary stationed in Europe. After that I was in Freak city in 2010 when he was on the sideline in Bamberg and had to endure Mr reliable Pascal Roller miss from the free throw line that helped his rival then Dirk Bauerman rack up another BBL title to add to his collection which he had won earlier with the Bavarian team as well as Leverkusen in the 90’s. After a short stint in Berlin, I saw him back for a third time in Frankfurt and experienced the highs and lows until he departed in 2019. For him coming back to Germany after getting some experience with the Canadian national team was refreshing, but also a logical choice. He had won a title in the BBL and reached countless playoffs and won the Fiba Europe Cup and now was ready for the next and ultimate challenge of winning a medal with Germany. I always had good feelings about Germany having success at the Euro 2022. I mean when he announced the final 12 man roster, I was confident despite Germany having a very brutal group with France, Lithuania and Slovenia. So many people were skeptical of Germany’s chances, but Germany proved everybody wrong going 4-1 which actually surprised me a bit to. But that just shows that Gordon Herbert (agency: BeoBasket ) was able to go step by step from day 1 in early August and form a harmonious team that actually liked playing with each other unlike the team in 2019 in China at the world champions that weren’t on the same page. It was very different this time as the ex Canadian Olympian who played against Michael Jordan at the 1984 Olympics used his strengths and succeeded. ‘Gordon Herbert (agency: BeoBasket ) is the sports psychologist that treats each player the way it is necessary, gives clear transparent roles and is just very strong with analysis and tactics’, warned ex German national player Pascal Roller.

Germany came and didn’t fool around and waste anytime, but really came to play defeating France which actually surprised me a bit too, but that win really gave the team confidence and they continued with stunning wins over Lithuania in OT which was one of the best games at the Euro 2022 and a satisfying victory over Bosnia. The only loss was in group play against Slovenia where they couldn’t stop Luka Doncic, but that is something many teams had to taste at the Euro. It was only fitting that they ended group play with a blow out win over Hungary. Each win gave the team more self-confidence and each player understood his role. It didn’t hurt that Dennis Schroeder not only came to play, but left his ego far away and was a real team player. He clearly showed he isn’t a kid anymore, but has really matured as a person which was huge in the team believing and coming together each game. It was no secret that Gordie had to find a way to tame all the ego’s and he did that. “Guys didn’t need much motivation to play for their country. Gordie did a good job to get everyone buy into his system. I also think that it also helped him with his defensive schemes when you have great defenders and rim protectors’, stressed Quantez Robertson. The other NBA guys with Daniel Theis and Franz Wagner had great tournaments and he got everything out of guys like newcomer Nick Weiler-Babb who didn’t have it easy coming late to the team and also Johannes Thiemann who was the big discovery at the Euro for team Germany. Guys like Johannes Voigtmann and Maodo Lo were also huge in keeping the team together. The team came together and played solid against Montenegro reaching the semi-finals against Spain. Their march to the Gold came to an end against Spain. Germany definitely had chances to win this game, but some stated that Herbert had been outcoached by the Italian top trainer Sergio Scalari, but according to Fraport Skyliner lifer Quantez Robertson that wasn’t the case. ‘I think some of the players were a little too anxious to make the big shots in the fourth quarter’, stated Quantez Robertson. Herbert showed real massive class after the loss taking the blame himself instead of pointing fingers at his players. “That says a lot for Gordie taking the blame for his shortcomings’, said Quantez Robertson.

The Bronze game didn’t turn out to be a classic game, but at the end of 40 minutes nobody cared. Germany had won the Bronze medal. One could see during the game that it had been a long tournament and guys were just drained. Germany didn’t play their best, but it was enough against a pesky Polish team that had super stars Mateusz Ponitka and AJ Slaughter providing havoc. Poland never gave up, but Germany stuck to their game plan and got needed three’s in crunch-time from Dennis Schroeder and Johannes Voigtmann to secure the win. When the siren sounded Germany had won seemingly comfortably 82-69 even when the 40 minutes didn’t show it. As I was watching the players celebrate, I also thought about Gordie and what he must have been going through. He had been a key figure in Germany winning their next medal after waiting 17 years. I remember the first interview we ever did which was surprisingly not until 2011 when he was with Alba Berlin, or remembering how happy he was at the Fiba Europe Cup party at the Romer in Frankfurt in 2016 or just the many casual talks we have had about players over the years like about Kevin Pangos and the chances of him coming to the Fraport Skyliners before his career took off in the Euroleague. I was genuinely very very happy for him. He totally deserved it. I don’t even want to think how busy his phone was after winning the Bronze medal, but I continued to be active to congratulate him after every win and was happy when he acknowledged me with a thank you. So many people that have been close to him on and off the court are so proud of him, while others are also very thankful and blessed to have been able to work together with him. “Gordie is for me personally one of the most important companions in my career. I have learned a lot from him. His leadership and natural presence are unique. I’m thrilled for Klaus Perwas and the whole team for being able to fulfil their dream of winning a medal. His son Daniel is working with me now in Crailsheim and I’m very thankful for that’, stressed Hakro Merlins Crailsheim head coach Sebastian Gleim. The future looks very rosy for the German national team as one looks forward to the next World Championships. The team have so much talent and will have another competitive roster. The only problem will be choosing 12 players again as there will be guys like Isaac Bonga and Moritz Wagner looking for a chance they couldn’t get this time, because they were injured as well as NBA players Isaiah Hartenstein and Maxi Kleber who could still be possibilities. All in all it was a real delight to experience the 2022 Euro and see what Germany was able to accomplish under Gordon Herbert (agency: BeoBasket ). One can’t forget that he isn’t only a sensational coach, but also a great person. Despite starting to get ready in July 2022 for the 2022 Euro, he took some time to help me with a new project of mine that will be revealed soon. Thank you Gordie for that assistance and once again for giving so many Basketball people in Germany so much joy the last weeks and helping put German basketball back on the map.

Hugo Florestedt (196-G-1998, college: Temple JC) is a 24 year old 196cm guard playing his first season for the Bona Baskets Limburg (Regionalliga). Last season he played for TuS ADEMAX Red Devils Bramsche (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 14.9ppg, 4.6rpg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 80.4%. he played his first season in Germany with BG Karlsruhe (Germany-Oberliga). He also played a season in USA for Temple College (JUCO): averaging 7.1ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 43.3%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 71.1%. He began his basketball career in his homeland with KFUM Fryshuset Basket (Basketettan). He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I am currently in my apartment in Limburg, Germany. Playing for Bona Baskets Limburg in 1.Regionalliga. I have been here a month so far and have been practicing, getting to know my teammates and I am very excited for the season to start.

You have signed with German Regionalliga team Bona Baskets Limburg after playing last season with the Red Devils Bramsche. What were the main reasons for you coming to Limburg?

I was looking for other teams in 1.Regionalliga to sign with and Coach Danny contacted me. We talked a lot and he explained what my role would be and I just felt that it would be a good fit here, knowing I would play a lot minutes and get a chance to develop as a player.

This will be your third season in Germany after coming from Temple College (JUCO) in the States. Has Germany become your second home?

Yeah kind of, I really enjoy living here because it is very similar to Sweden, at least compared to the US, and it feels more at home.

What do you appreciate most about the country Germany and it’s basketball?

I really like the old towns, it is always excited to see different old towns and different cities. In terms of basketball, I like that the sport itself is much bigger here than at home. There is actually people that come and watch the game which makes it so much better.

How did the talks go with head coach Danny Stallbohm. He is a guy that eats, drinks and sleeps Limburg basketball. What was your impression of him?

It definitely felt like he knew a lot about basketball and that he would be very involved as coach. He talked a lot about my playing style and how I would fit in the team.

You had a very solid Regionalliga season in Bramsche and now have come to replace the talented German Noah Westerhaus. How confident are you that you will fulfill this?

It is always a little nerve racking whenever I sign with a new team in terms of how I will fit in and how well I can perform. But it has been going good so far. I am confident that I can be the same threat I was playing in Bramsche and help out the team.

How much fun has it been having KJ Sherril as a teammate. He is a real big Dawg. What do you appreciate most about his game?

It’s been great! He is a great teammate and a great basketball player. What I appreciate the most about his game is probably that he has a good basketball IQ and makes smart decisions. I am excited to play with him this year.

How much fun has it been playing with captain Justin Stallbohm? How infectious is his smile?

It’s been really fun, Justin is really motivated and always want to win. He has a positive energy on and off the court, but can also hold people accountable whenever needed. His smile is definitely a big part of that positive energy.

Let’s talk about your game. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

That’s a tricky one, I haven’t really thought about it before. But I consider myself an ‘all-around’ type of player (at least offensively) so it would have to be someone like that. Someone who isn’t specified in one aspect, but rather does a little bit of everything.

You’re a player that knows how to score and rebound the ball, but what other strong points does your game have on the court?

I would say that I have a good understanding of basketball in general. I strive to make smart decisions on the court. I am also a coachable player, I always try to take any feedback in consideration and improve my game.

Is it fair to say that your three pointer is a work in progress? How confident are you that you can become a better shooter over time?

I’ve always been someone who shoots three’s and I know that I am a good shooter. However, it is sometimes a mental challenge, especially during games, to stay focused and not let missed or bad shots affect that confidence. But this is something that I’m always working on and will continue to work on during the season.

On what area’s of your game are you still working on so you can continue to get better as a player?

The area of my game that lacks the most is probably defense. I have a good understanding defensively but there is still room to improve.

Last season you played with 22: TuS ADEMAX Red Devils Bramsche (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 14.9ppg, 4.6rpg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 80.4%. Is it fair to say that this was your true professional break through season?

Yes definitely! Considering my first season got cut short after just 3 games due to COVID. This was my first full season in Germany so I would consider it a break through season.

What memories will you always have from Bramsche? How do you feel did your game grow last season?

I had some great teammates in Bramsche and we always had a good time together. It was also a great atmosphere at our home games. The fans would be loud from start to end no matter how the game went and I will always remember that. I definitely feel like my game improved from that season, especially having that COVID year when I didn’t really play any team basketball.

2 seasons ago you played with BG Karlsruhe (Oberliga). What kind of season was this for you coming from JUCO? Was it tough having to begin in the low league Oberliga?

When I got there they were in the 2.Regionalliga, but it was still a huge difference from my year at Temple. I played with some really good guys at Temple so my role wasn’t that big. So I was excited to play for BG Karlsruhe because I knew I would be a key player to the team. I wish the season wouldn’t have gotten cancelled.

You played a season at Temple College (JUCO) averaging 7.1ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 43.3%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 71.1% Had the plan been to stay longer or did you just want to play 1 season abroad?


The plan was to play another season at Temple and then try to play for a 4 year school for my last two years. However, I ended up leaving because I wouldn’t get the full scholarship for my sophomore year. After that, COVID hit and I didn’t want to go back to the US and I decided to play somewhere in Europe instead.

Every JUCO player that I have interviewed have said that playing JUCO was very tough, but an experience they would never have traded for anything. How was the experience for you?

I agree with that statement, the toughest part for me was probably being such a long way from home and in a completely different culture than Sweden. However, as you mentioned, it was a great experience where I learned, developed and grew a lot as a basketball player. I got to play with and against some great basketball players.

How did head coach Kirby Johnson groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He has a lot of experience so he taught me a lot of stuff and just shared his knowledge.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Kortijk Miles?

I would have to say Kort, he is a strong and difficult player to guard for sure.

Who was the best player that you ever faced that played in NBA or at a high level?

Can’t really remember anyone by name, but I played against a lot of great players in JUCO.
Some who move on to play at high level D1 schools.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I’ve had a lot of great teammates. Three of my closest friends, Kevin Lai, Aleksander Mlodianovski and Basiru Njie were all teammates of mine and we grew up playing with each other. Cole Walker, my teammate from Bramsche is also good friend of mine and we had a lot fun playing together last year. Lastly, one of the most skilled basketball players I’ve had as a teammate is Kedrian Johnson who is currently playing for WVU. It was a great experience to play with him at JUCO.

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?


I am a die hard Celtics fan, especially the 2008 championship team. So my list can’t be more personal. Paul Pierce KG Rajon Rondo Kobe Bryant

Where do you see Luka Doncic in the ranking of the best at the moment?

I see Luka as Top 5, easily. He is unguardable.

What is the last movie that you saw?


The Big Lebowski.

Thanks Hugo for the chat.

After a long summer that saw a massive drought in Germany, it was finally time to play basketball again in Limburg. It was a long 5 months where head coach Danny Stallbohm could plan for the new season. The team lost German energizer Noah Westerhaus who was homesick and returned back to Essen. New Swede forward Hugo Florestedt was brought in to fill the void for the departed Westerhaus. Other than that the team kept a trio of key veterans with Sherril, Stallbohm and Kljaic to be responsible for the bulk of the scoring. They met new team Vamos TSG Soeflingen who had had a great season in the second Regionalliga and deserved to move up. On a very cool late summer evening the Bona Baskets Limburg who were without the big dawg KJ Sherril who had had hurt his shoulder met a pesky opponent with Vamos TSG Soeflingen and had their hands full for the total 40 minutes and had to play catch up ball and couldn’t keep their disciplined team basketball under control losing 92-72. After the first win for Vamos TSG Soeflingen in the Regionaliga German forward Patrick Antic (197-SF-2001) was all smiles as he had an answer for why the team play was working so well. ‘We played very well in pre season going 5-1. It all feels like a family already this season. We came on to the court very focused and were very motivated. The team play worked well and so did our zone and communication’, stressed ex ANGT player Patrick Antic who battled NBA player Franz Wagner there. The Bona Baskets Limburg went into the game needing to find a way to try to compensate the loss of work horse KJ Sherril and couldn’t and were only able to stay with them for a quarter and a half. ‘This loss was all about defense and our rotations. The first help defense came but our helpers didn’t help. We also had to many mismatches that we lost. Their guards were bigger and had an advantage on the rebounds. We also didn’t move the ball well enough and had too many 1-1 plays’, stated ex Temple College (JUCO) forward Hugo Florestedt.

In the first few minutes the Bona Baskets Limburg didn’t show like they needed KJ Sherril at all as they sped to a surprising 9-0 lead before the guests had really understood what had happened. It was obvious that other players had to step up and did as captain Justin Stallbohm who is in his 11th season with Limburg mastered 5 points while Hugo Florestedt added a lay in and Croatian point guard Matej Kljaic made a lay in. The answer to success in the early going was the Limburg defense that forced the guests to 4 turnovers who still seemed like they were somewhere on the German autobahn and hadn’t arrived yet. But the guests slowly recovered and began to chip away at the Limburg lead getting some buckets from captain Stefan Troung, German Henry Hurler and Antic as suddenly the Limburg lead had been cut to 13-10. Vamos TSG Soeflingen became more aggressive and attacked the rim more and were rewarded with baskets. Quick German guard Berkant Campinar who had played 6 consecutive years in Limburg before leaving for Wiesbaden last season was back making a clutch trey for the 16-10 advantage, but the guests still had an ace in their rotation with Marko Markovic who is one of the team’s more experienced guys. He would be a real pest in this game at both ends of the court and scored 2 baskets in a row dead locking the contest at 16-16. The game remained tight as the guests continued doing a good job spreading the ball around and using everyone as young German Dennis Heck who reached the 2018 NBBL semi-finals hit a three pointer and Antic remained in attack mode nailing a pull up jumper for the 21-19 lead. But the troops of head coach Danny Stallbohm also had an ace in their sleeves as Kljaic closed out the first quarter with a lay in at the buzzer as the Bona Baskets Limburg led 22-21. ‘We felt good after one quarter. We had had a rough pre season and I think that everyone was motivated to come out strong and show what we had. We began well and then they began to hit shots and we lost fire’, responded Hugo Florestedt.

The Bona Baskets Limburg continued to play their game in the second quarter, but a massive Vamos run half way through turned the game around from which the Bona Baskets Limburg couldn’t recover from. Limburg continued to play aggressive defense early which led to turnovers and on offense received needed three’s from guard duo Campinar and Stallbohm and a Kljaic lay in for the comfortable 35-27 advantage. But then the tide changed as Vamos TSG Soeflingen totally shocked the Bona Baskets Limburg going on a demoralizing 16-0 run to retake the lead 43-35 at the break. In the run the guests got diehard support from Markovic who was their Sherril and work horse as he destroyed them on offense with 4 baskets. He played with more intensity on offense and just did what a work horse does muscling for baskets and more. The guests also got baskets from Antic, Troung and energizer Laurin Ertekin. Limburg just seemed shocked after a while which led to no shots falling anymore. ‘Key in the run was that we went from man to zone which they couldn’t cope with. We quickly got the momentum and when that happens a run goes so fast’, stressed Patrick Antic. ‘They used many mismatches and we couldn’t stop their pick and roll. Their zone also stopped us. Markovic hurt us, but it would have been different had we had had Sherril’, expressed Hugo Florestedt.

In the third quarter the Bona Baskets Limburg fought early on but couldn’t get over the hump as they cut it down to 5 points, but then Vamos TSG Soeflingen continued to play their game and finished the third quarter with a 16-7 run to lead comfortably 70-55 after 3 quarters. The ex Second Regionalliga team also showed another side of their game which they hadn’t displayed in the first half. It had rained all day long and suddenly they let it rain three’s which totally handicapped Limburg. Limburg actually began well getting 3 free throws from Kljaic and another trey from Stallbohm to cut the lead down to 46-41, but then came the three pointer rain fall. Antic began dropping 2 in a row for the 49-41 advantage. Once again Vamos TSG Soeflingen did a super job spreading the ball around and really allowing every player a piece of the cake. More trey’s followed from 37 year old Irfan Mecinovic and ex easyCredit BBL player Nils Dejworek who played 1 BBL game with Bayreuth against Braunschweig and German Adrian Weiter also connected. 214cm center Marius Flitsch who played 19 Pro B games also scored inside as Vamos TSG Soeflingen were able to extend their lead to 65-48. The Bona Baskets Limburg still had come back attempt on their minds and got some valuable baskets from ex Bochum guard Jari Beckman who had his moments with forceful energy and Florestedt, but the guests always had an answer not allowing Limburg to get over the hump. They really had excellent role players and every player did their job like Henry Hurler who scored 5 points including a three at the end as Vamos showed their best ball movement of the game to that point leading 70-55 after 30 minutes. ‘The many three’s helped and we kept getting the needed energy from the bench that allowed us to keep the big lead’, added Patrick Antic. ‘They hit many open three’s. We took more contested three’s’, said Hugo Florestedt.

The Bona Baskets Limburg executed ok in the fourth quarter, but had less steam on defense allowing Vamos TSG Soeflingen to continue to run their offense which led to 22 points and at the end to the seemingly easy looking victory. Limburg received another trey from Stallbohm early to give them a little hope as they trailed only 72-58, but then came the deciding blow as Vamos TSG Soeflingen went on a 8-2 run to lead 80-60. Markovic who was controlled better in the second half by Limburg after dominating the first half scored while Antic scored 5 points continuing his consistent and smooth inside out game with a lay in and three pointer. He had turned 21 a day earlier and sparkled on the floor which he did adding 14 points, 6 rebounds and 4 steals. ‘I was excited and wanted to show all what I can do. My role this season is to bring energy and push everyone’, stated Patrick Antic. Another player who had his moments was Nils Dejworek as he scored in bunches nailing a three pointer and making a pretty old school hook shot ala Kareem Abdul Jabbar. ‘I never saw a hook shot from him in pre season. My first thought was why, but he then made it. You don’t see those kind of shots every day’, smiled Patrick Antic. The game was decided now, but one guy who found better to his game was Hugo Florestedt who made 3 buckets to end his Limburg debut with 14 points. He went into the game with a bit preoccupied with how well his leg would hold up as he had hurt his achilles earlier in the week. ‘I was resting this week. I had had a calf strain. I was a little scared to how my leg would hold up. It was a bit tough to get going as well with our offense standing still so much’, said Hugo Florestedt. One of his late buckets was a beautiful lay in where he split the Vamos defense with ease. ‘This is a move I saw my teammate Cole Walker do last season. It was his go to move where you fake the hand of and go to the basket’, smiled Hugo Florestedt. In the last minutes, Kljaic scored as did Weiter and Stallbohm closed out the game with a runner. ‘A big problem today was that we didn’t react well enough when they went on runs. They always stuck together and came back. We didn’t have the energy’, stressed Hugo Florestedt. Vamos TSG Soeflingen were led by Marko Markovic with18 points and 13 boards while Patrick Antic added 14 points and Nils Dejworek added 12 points and Henry Hurler had 11 points while the Bona Baskets Limburg were led by Justin Stallbohm with 18 points while Hugo Florestedt contributed 14 points as did Matej Kljaic with 14 points. Vamos TSG Soeflingen shot 46% from the field and 42% form outside and had 46 rebounds and 16 turnovers while the Bona Baskets Limburg shot 41% from the field and 33% from outside and had 30 rebounds and 21 turnovers.