John Murry (192-G-95, college: Austin Peay) is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Indianapolis, Indiana that is playing his third professional season in Germany with BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga). Before that he had experience with the Kitchener-Waterloo Titans. He played two years at Owens Community College playing 63 games and two years at Austin Peay State University (NCAA) playing 56 NCAA games and as a senior averaged 16.7ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 81.1%. He and Miles Schmidt-Scheuber talk weekly about basketball.

Congrats on the massive win against top team Ibbenburen. How big is this win after the last weeks that were so tough with the depleted lineups?

I appreciate it and it felt great, even when we were down double digits in the second half we showed we are not to be counted out. Love and proud of the way we fought for 40 minutes.

How possible could this win be for being the turnaround of the season as you continue to climb out of the cellar?

This plays a major role in our momentum going forward, I feel guys gained confidence in this last game and we learned more about ourselves especially with a full rotation of players to come in and give us a boost of the bench.

You haven’t played many games overseas yet, but was that the biggest win of your professional career?

This was huge, I might have to tie this one with the win against the #1 team in the first half of the season, both of them were a tough battle I really appreciated.

Talk a little about the game leading up to crunch-time. What do you believe was the team doing better in this game then in the last weeks?

I believed we stepped it up defensively as a team, guys helped the helper and we also finished plays down the stretch, I thrive off close games and crunch time, it’s the things I used to dream about as a young boy dribbling around in the driveway.

Talk a little about the crunch time. What was key in the closing minutes for Grevenbroich being able to pull out a huge win?

Just taking care of the ball and trying to capitalize off our stops on the offensive end
I believe when we take care of the ball, we are hard to beat.

Alejandro Vergara had a huge game with 13 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. How big of an asset has he been since his arrival recently?

He has been a tremendous help to us on both sides of the floor, I love his game and what he brings to the table.

Anytime you cough up the ball 23 times and win you can thank God for the win. In what area’s of the game do you feel did the team compensate the many turnovers?

Maybe just careless mistakes, things we know better than to do but just had a mental lapses, I’m sure we’ll take care of that in practice this week, leading up to the next game.

You had a huge game with 32/7/3/2 stats. Despite having 5 turnovers, how much did your top class leadership qualaties take form the last weeks?

Just holding myself accountable on the floor when things don’t go the way we want them to, keep playing get stops on the defensive and just being vocal on the floor.

You next face BG Hagen who have 2 wins more. You lost the first game 93-83. What will be key in getting the win?

Just doing what we do on offense and getting stops on defense, that’s the biggest key for us, consistently getting stops for 40 min can take us to a different level.

In the first game against BG Hagen, German point guard Soren Fritze had 26 points. Will you observe extra film on him to shut him down?

As the old saying goes, ‘back to the drawing board’ and we’ll take it from there.

Thanks John for the chat.

Stanley Whittaker (183-G-94, college: Keiser) is a 27 year old 183cm point guard from Philadelphia playing his third professional season and first in Germany with PS Karlsruhe. He played his rookie season in Lithuania and last season had his break through with UBSC Raiffeisen Graz (Austria-BSL) playing 24 games: Score-2 (21.5ppg), 6.3rpg, Assists-2 (8.0apg), Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 78.4%. He played his college ball at Frank Phillips (JUCO) and Keiser (NAIA). He teams up every week with Miles Schmidt-Scheuber to talk basketball

Conrats on the huge 99-77 victory over the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. How good is it in general beating a team the next time after losing badly the first time?

It feels good to get a win after a tough slump our team has been in. Getting a win against a very good Leverkusen team is good for our group. We just want to continue to take steps forward.

How do you feel is PS Karlsruhe a better team now then the first time they met Leverkusen?


Well, I believe so. They were our first game of the season so I believe we are a much better team from the first game of the season.

This was a massive win. I asked you in the last interview if the club was aware how important the game was. I guess you could say that the team was all business?

Each game is equally important to our team. We want to continue to take steps forward as a group, continue to try a play a good brand of basketball consistently and see where that gets us!

Talk a little about the game. What was the turning point of the game where it was clear that PS Karlsruhe would go on to win the game?

I think we got out to a really solid start. But it all started with our ability to play defense, holding a high scoring team as which Leverkusen is, to 12 points in the first quarter was huge. Then, we were able to sustain our defensive keys and hit some shots on the other end of the floor.

The Bayer Giants Leverkusen won the rebound battle, but you won the turnovers 19-10. How much of a factor was the turnover advantage that PS Karlsruhe had?

Our team had an understanding that if we value each possession and take care of the basketball we give ourselves a chance. So that was a point of emphasis. Turning the ball over against a high scoring team like Leverkusen will hurt any group so we wanted to focus and I think we did that.

The defense seemed to be on the same page. PS Karlsruhe cut down the points again well. What area’s of the defense were you most happy with?

I liked our physicality defensively, but more importantly our want! The want fact was there against Leverkusen, we accepted the challenge, played tough and battled all night defensively.

What was it like defending Spencer Reaves? His three was on, but otherwise you were able to slow him down in other areas.

He’s a good player, shot the ball pretty well and got into a nice rhythm in the 3rd quarter. Glad we were able to contain him late.

Big man Maurice Pluskota had another big game with 22 points. He has been up and down in the scoring department. How refreshing was it seeing him be his dominant self again?

It was great seeing Mo’ play the way he did. He was active on the offensive glass, created more opportunities for himself and our team. Played tough defensively and rebounded as well. He’s a big piece to our group so it helps us when he’s decisive and playing well!

You had another massive game of 33/11/6. Your coming closer to a triple double. Do you feel that your all around offensive game continues to grow?


I think my game in general is still growing. I’m not a finished product at all, there’s so much I can do better on the floor, so I’ll continue to focus on bettering myself each and every day.

You next face Ehingen who you out battled 111-91. How dangerous is a 0-21 team? What will the team have to be aware of most?

Ehingen is a tricky team, they play very hard and they get after it. Both offensively and defensively, they are aggressive and are always in attack mode. We have to come out with a high level of energy and focus.

Thanks Stanley for the chat.

Jy’Lan Washington (206-F-97, college: Tennessee St.) is a 24 year old 206cm forward from Smyrna, Tennessee playing his second professional season and first with BC Kyiv Basket (Ukraine-Superleague). He played his rookie season with BC Rustavi 1991 (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 15.2ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 58.9%, 3PT-3 (47.1%), FT: 71.7%. He began his basketball career with / Stewart Creek High School and then played at Louisiana Tech from 2015-2018 playing 96 NCAA games. He played his senior year at Tennessee State averaging 10.5ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 64.5%, 3PT: 53.8%, FT: 78.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim.

Jylan thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment. You were in the States and then Georgia during the Pandemic. How have you experienced COVID and what were the most challenging things you had to cope with?

Being in Georgia my rookie year during the pandemic was pretty challenging. The city went on lockdown so basically after practice the only place you could go to was the grocery store and you had to be in the house at 9pm. But honestly it wasn’t bad just had to adapt.

With everything that you witnessed during COVID off the court how do you feel did you get stronger as a man?

Just being alone in the city made me a stronger person I really learned a lot about myself.

Your playing your first season with BC Kyiv Basket (Ukraine-Superleague). What kind of an experience has it been playing in the Ukraine? How is this a step up from the league in Georgia?

Playing in Ukraine I feel like every team is good it’s more physical for sure but I think adjusting pretty good. The biggest step from Georgia is traveling every road game in Ukraine. In Georgia most of the games were played in the same gym we really didn’t have to travel as much.

You haven’t needed an adjustment period playing in the Fiba Europe Cup League. What have you been focusing on most on your game to help continue to make new strides against very different competition?

Honestly just playing hard every possession and doing whatever it takes to win the game.

You’re the youngest American on the team. How valuable has it been having so many vets around? Which American do you feel have you profited most from?

It is very valuable to have vets around I listen to them and I try to soak up as much information as I can so I can pass it on for when I’m not the youngest on the team. All the Americans give me advice I feel like they are a big reason to why I’m adjusting so well.

Let’s talk a little about your game. You’re a 206cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the bill?

My favorite player growing up was Rudy Gay. I always tried to steal bits of pieces from him I feel like he can a little bit of everything an that’s what type of player I think I am.

Is it fair to say you’re a modern day forward with a three pointer? How vital will the development of your three for moving up the basketball ladder? Shooting the ball so well in Georgia must have given you a lot of confidence.

Yes I feel like I can stretch out the floor pretty well with my shooting ability. I feel like it makes me valuable with my size to be able to shoot the ball. Confidence plays a big role in basketball so Georgia helped me believe in myself more after the season I had.

How much pride do you take on the defensive end? Do you feel like sky is the limit with your defensive capabilities?

I take it personal every position is big so I try to my best to help my team get the stop. Yes I feel like I can guard pretty good at my size and being able to switch on guards the sky is the limit for sure.

Last season you played with BC Rustavi 1991 (Georgia-Superleague) playing 26 games: averaging 15.2ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 58.9%, 3PT-3 (47.1%), FT: 71.7%. What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were very far away from home?

Just not being able to look in the stands and see friends and family. You really have to find your own motivation overseas.

How cool was it wining your first pro title as a rookie. What made this team so special?


It was a great experience what made it so special was that everything I went through that year it was worth it.

How much did guards White and Davis make your life easier on the court? What will you always remember about them?

They were great players we always pushed it other no matter what. We always had each others back it’s a long season so we held each other accountable. We would laugh through the hard times I’ll always remember that about them.

You played at Louisiana Tech from 2015-2018. What memories do have from those years? How do you see yourself having made steps in your game there?

Just winning games with my teammates and having fun on an off the court. I gained like 25 pounds there so it helped me out.

Was the coaching change from KonKol to Davis a reason you left for Tennessee State?

I left la tech because I wanted to be closer to home for my senior year.

What do you remember from your battles with Erik McCree? How did a guy like him help your game in the two years?

Guarding Erik everyday pushed me he wasn’t an easy person to guard. Just watching him and talking to him on how he prepared for games helped out for my junior and senior year.

You played your senior year at Tennessee State. You made big strides averaging 10.5ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 64.5%, 3PT: 53.8%, FT: 78.4%. How did your game develop as a senior?

Red shirting I watched a lot of my old highlights and working out everyday. That made me hungry an eager to play basketball again.

How did head coach Brian Collins groom and prepare you bets for a professional career?


When I signed there he told me to prepare myself to be a pro stay in the gym as much as you can. I took it personal and listened to what he said and it all worked out.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Wesley Harris?

Me an west played different positions so we really never guarded each other but if I had to say we probably evened out. West is a very talented player loved his game.

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

I’d have to say Collin Sexton he was just a dog on both ends.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Trip Davis Derric Jean Jacobi Boykins Alex Hamilton Deshwan Robinson

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


MJ ,Kevin Durant, Lebron James ,Kobe

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

All time MJ for sure no debate.

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

Yes let a classic be a classic. Lol

Thanks Jylan for the chat.

AAvery Woodson (188-PG-93, college: Butler) is a 29 year old 188cm guard from Waynesboro, Missouri playing his 5th professional season and first with BC Kyiv Basket (Ukraine-Superleague) averaging 12,3ppg, 3,6rpg and 2,8apg in the Super League.. He has had a lot of experience in Europe having played in countries like Greece, Finland and Sweden and teams like Panionios ON Telecoms Athens (Greece-A1), Kaarinan Ura Basket (Finland-Korisliiga), Kouvot Kouvola (Finland-Korisliiga) and Boras Basket (Sweden-Basketligan). He began his basketball career at Wayne High School and then played at 3 schools with East Mississippi Community College (JUCO), the University of Memphis (NCAA) where he averaged 7.9ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 36.9%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 82.1% and 9.6ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 40.7%, 3PT: 43.0%, FT: 70.0%. He played his senior year at Butler University (NCAA) averaging 8.9ppg, 2.6rpg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 76.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the Hakro Merlins.

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

No problem at all, I appreciate the opportunity. I am in Kyiv, Ukraine in year 5 of my career playing with a special group of guys and a great coach. I am enjoying it.

Since COVID emerged you played in Sweden and the Ukraine. What was the biggest challenge for you on and off the court during the pandemic?

I would say that the biggest challenge has been playing without the fan support. There were were no fans at all in Sweden last year and the country had limitations on a lot of things so there was not much to do besides basketball and grocery shopping. This year is a bit better. We have fans and there are less restrictions compared to last year.

With all that you experienced during COVID, how do you believe did you get stronger as a man?

This is great question. I’ve learned to really take care of the mind and use the time that we have to better yourself mentally. Since covid, I’ve read more books that I have in my entire life. It’s been really helpful to build mental strength with so life changing so much.

Your playing your fifth professional season and first with BC Kyiv Basket (Ukraine-Superleague). What kind of an experience has it been playing in the Ukraine and how does the Super League compare in style and talent to the Finnish and Swedish leagues?

My experience so far has been great. I really enjoy playing with this team and for Coach Bagatskis. The Ukrainian league has really grown over the years and this year especially, it is a lot of good talented players in the league this year. It’s pretty hard for me to compare the leagues. I’ve felt they were all different in their own right. The Finnish league was a very fast paced game. The Swedish league is very intimate because it’s not so many teams so all the teams really watch film and try to take away what you like to do. Here in Ukraine every game is different. Everyone has their own style of basketball and things they like to do. Every game from top to bottom is a dog fight. It’s really competitive.

Since leaving Greece you have been a consistent scorer which you weren’t as much in the NCAA. What kind of a player have you transformed into since your rookie season?

In college, I wasn’t asked to do more than catch and shoot. But I always knew I could do more than that. I would always work on my game and try to be more. I wasn’t satisfied being so limited offensively in college and my 2nd year pro I finally got the opportunity to showcase my actual talent. I’m so thankful that I’m not limited as a pro. It makes the game so much more fun when you can be yourself as a player.

Your still seeking your first professional title. Could this be the season? How much bigger does the itch get each season?

I love winning. I definitely want to win a championship in my career but I also try not to look so far ahead and stay in the moment and enjoy the process. It’s a very very long season and I don’t want to get lost looking in the future. I will say that this team is very good though.

Last season you played with Boras Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) playing 36 games averaging 15.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 87.6%. What do you remember from your 39 point explosion against BC Lulea where you dueled against ex NBA player Toure Murray?

I really enjoyed playing for Boras. I’m still upset that we lost in the playoffs so early. But That was a really fun game. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the win, but I came out aggressive. My first few shots went in and I was able to find a rhythm from there and my teammates were helping me a lot. Finding me and setting good screens to get me open.

In the 2019-2020 season you played with Kouvot Kouvola (Finland-Korisliiga) you played 13 games averaging 16.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT: 90.5%. What kind of an experience was it playing with super veteran Kevin Johnson? What was it like having a guy like that protecting the paint?

I really enjoyed playing for Kouvot. Kevin is a very special person. He feels like an older brother and definitely wants people around him to succeed. He plays super hard and competes on every single play. I was also able to learn from a great veteran in the game, David Gonzalvez. Both of those guys helped me a ton!

You played the 2018-2019 season with Kaarinan Ura Basket (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 18.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 80.0%. How important was this season for your career after coming off a tough rookie season?

I feel like this was the first opportunity I had to really be the player I wanted to be. My opportunities were limited in college. I had a tough time in Greece and all of that fueled me to really take that opportunity and run with it. I’m very thankful for Ura basket. I feel like that’s where my pro career really started.

You played your rookie season with Panionios ON Telecoms Athens (Greece-A1) averaging 7.2ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 76.9%. What do you remember being your wake up calling to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

Greece was tough. I remember being at the airport and watching my family leave. It was an empty feeling knowing your about to leave everything and everyone behind. The Greek league is a very tough league. If you’re not ready to play it can really be hard for you. I met some great people and had a chance to learn from a vet in Esian Henderson. I still talk to him and he still helps me out and tells me to get pushing when things get tough. I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything. It made me tougher and pushed me to be better.

You got trounced by Euroleague team Panathinaikos and Olympiakos but held your own being efficient. What memories do you have playing against some incredible players and legends like Vassilis Spanoulis?

That was an amazing experience to play against players that have seen it all and done it all. And to hold your own and compete makes it even better. We didn’t win the games but as a competitor you cherish those moments to share the floor with some special players. I want to be in their shoes one day so whenever you get the opportunity to play against them you have to give it your all.

You played at East Mississippi Community College (JUCO) from 2012-2014. Every guy I speak to that played JUCO said it was very tough, but the best experience in their life. How was it for you?

It was very very tough. Scooba, Mississippi is a very small place. Nothing to do. Nothing to see. It’s all school and basketball. You have to be mentally tough to make the best of your time there. I’m very proud to have graduated from EMCC. It’s a lot of talent that is there and that has played there and I’m proud to be one of them.

You played at the University of Memphis from 2014-2016. Within a few weeks you defeated UConn twice by a combined total of only 4 points. What do you remember being the wildest memory that you had from these games?

I remember the UCONN crowd being crazy loud. And when we played at home in Memphis, I remember that being the most fans I’ve ever seen at one of our games. They were the defending national champions so those games felt like NCAA tournament games.

How do you feel did your game grow in those 2 years under Josh Pastner?

Coach Pastner really taught me how to be a self starter. Everything we did was tough. Practice, weights, conditioning. All of it. If you couldn’t motivate yourself, you wouldn’t last at Memphis. It’s a very demanding place to play. Coach Pastner knew I was very responsible so he gave me a lot of opportunities to be on the floor in pressure situations. And he taught me how to be more efficient. After my first year with him I shot 37% percent from 3 and he told me that he needed me to shoot 40% or better and really challenged me in the off season to be a better 3pt shooter.

You played a graduate season at Butler (NCAA) averaging 8.9ppg, 2.6rpg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 76.9%. You played your last NCAA game against powerhouse North Carolina losing 90-82. You played against many future NBA players in that game. Which player do you remember making the biggest impression on you?

Justin Jackson. Easily. He caused us so many problems. He could shoot from deep and he could also shoot the mid range and he had a very soft touch around the rim. And he’s 6’9 so he was very tough to guard. Roy Williams is a hall of fame coach, it’s hard to surprise him especially in the tournament. It’s no surprise that they won it all that year. Making it to the Sweet 16 with that Butler team and coaches is a dream come true.

How did head coach Chris Holtmann groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Holtmann was very demanding. He demanded excellence from all of his players and expected us to be a star in our role. If he asked you to do something he expected you to be the best at it. He’s a very smart guy and one of the best coaches I’ve ever been around. And his staff was incredible. He embodies team and uses everybody to win. In Europe, it’s the same. You need everybody to win and one person can’t do everything. Everybody has to be a star in their role to be successful.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Tyler Lewis?

I don’t think we ever played one on one but T Lew is an incredible pick up player. Ask around. He’s unstoppable. But if we were to play I’d beat T Lew.

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

Jalen Brunson. He gave us major problems every time we played him. He’s so skilled. It’s nothing he couldn’t do offensively. He could post. He can pass. He can shoot the mid range. He can shoot the 3. He’s an incredible player.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

That’s tough. I hope I don’t leave anybody out. I would say Tyler Wideman, David Gonzalvez, Kevin Johnson, Jeremy Harris, Esian Henderson.

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

Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe, Steph Curry,

Kareem What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James?

I think Michael Jordan reached a level of greatness no one can surpass. He was a rockstar. His brand sells more shoes than anybody. People from every corner of the Earth may know who Michael Jordan is. He’s perfect in the finals, and has every accolade there is to win. It’s hard to top that level of greatness. HOWEVER, Lebron is the best player to ever play. He’s done it for longer than anybody ever has and he’s going to be the all time leading scorer ever. I hope that makes sense.

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

I didn’t watch it. I heard it wasn’t great. I think we have to leave the classic movies alone for sure. My mom always says, If it’s not broken don’t fix it.

Thanks Avery for the chat.

Matt Milon is a 25 year old 196cm guard from Oviedo, Florida playing his second professional season and first with CSM Galati (Romania-Liga Nationala) currently averaging 12,8ppg, 3,9rpg, 1,0apg and 1,4spg.. He played his rookie season with the Starwings Basket Regio Basel (Switzerland-SBL) playing 30 games averaging 12.6ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 80.0%. He played in the NCAA from 2015-2020 playing a total of 129 NCAA games for three schools named Boston College, William & Mary and the University of Central Florida. He spoke to germanhoops.com at the start of the 2021-2022 season about his basketball career.

Before we talk about basketball, I have to ask you about how you experienced COVID? You were a senior at Central Florida and as a rookie were in Switzerland. What was the most challenging thing that you had to take on with COVID?

The hardest part was having my college career end so suddenly because of COVID. The second hardest part was playing games last year quickly after quarantines and without fans.

With everything that you experienced during COVID off the court how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

I feel that what I had to deal with as a rookie and then adding COVID on top of that made it a challenging season. It was very hard not to see family or friends for 10 months because of the virus.

I recently interviewed your ex teammate at William & Mary David Cohn. He said he beat you always in one on one. Please set the story straight. Was it that way?

Dave is a very good player so we had very competitive games, but it was not one sided!

What memories do you have of David Cohn at William & Mary? How much did you appreciate his play as a point guard?

I had my best shooting season at William and Mary because of Dave. He was always looking for me to get me easy shots. He made the game easier for everyone.

Your playing your second professional season with CSM Galati (Romania-Liga Nationala).What have you learned to appreciate most about the basketball and country so far?

I have only been here for a week but the people are very nice and the league is also a great challenge as a player.

After a very solid rookie season in Switzerland what are your main goals with your personal game besides winning?

Aside from team success, individually I want to play at the highest levels of basketball in Europe.

Last season as a rookie you played with the Starwings Basket Regio Basel (Switzerland-SBL) playing 30 games averaging 12.6ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 80.0%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were very far away from home?

The first time I felt very far away from home was during the holidays and I could not go home and my family could not visit either. That was challenging because family is important to me.

You reached the SBL finals losing to Fribourg. What will you always remember from the final where you were playing for your first professional title?

That experience was nice to have in my first season. I remember watching them celebrate and using that as motivation. I hope to have many more trips to the finals and win the next time!

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

I like to watch Joe Harris and JJ Redick. I’m working to get better with the ball like Dragic who is a lefty.

Your very good shooting stands out. What other vital aspects does your game incorporate?

I think whenever I am on the court the offense becomes better because of the attention the defense has to give to me not to shoot. I can cut well and finish at the basket.

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

I always work on my shooting because that is my best skill. But I have worked on my handle and playing more with the ball. I am also paying attention to defense.

You played at three schools Boston College, William & Mary and Central Florida. Do you ever wonder what type pf player you would be today had you played at BC for four years?

I don’t think about that very often because I was not happy at BC. I had two good seasons at William and Mary and got better.

How much do you feel did your game profit from playing at three schools. Please describe what was most vital that you got from each school?

At BC, I found my shooting translated to a higher level than high school. At William and Mary, I became a better overall player with freedom. At UCF, I had to adapt to a specific role and overcome adversity.

You played your freshman year at Boston College. You played 30 games averaging 5.4ppg, 1.4rpg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 49.4%. You played against the best basketball schools in the NCAA including North Carolina twice and Duke once. Was the bitter 68-65 loss to North Carolina one of those games that you will always remember?

I remember it because we were so close to beating them. I hit a three near the end of the game but it was too little too late. I remember our game against Syracuse more when I scored 25 points and they went to the final four that year.

Against Duke you played against many future NBA players like Brandon Ingram and Grayson Allen to name a few. Did Ingram already give that impression that he could become a very good NBA player?

Yes, you could tell that he was going to be a really good player.

You then played at William & Mary for two years putting up solid stats averaging 12 and 13 points per game. How do you feel did your game grow in this time?

I played with great teammates and a coach who valued what I did on the court. I also grew as a man and got a great education.

Where do you rate your 27 points and 6 three’s in the thrilling 86-84 win over Charleston in your best games in the NCAA?

It is up there. I had some good games at William and Mary that I think back at sometimes and that was one of them because my mom came to see me for the game on her birthday.

What were the main reasons for making one more change of scenery at Central Florida and what positives did you get out of it?

I left William and Mary because our coach, Tony Shaver, was fired. I wouldn’t have left if that had not happened. I graduated and had one season left of eligibility. My parents work at UCF and it seemed like a great situation. I learned from that one season at UCF that I can overcome hard times and adapt to anything.

How did head coach Johnny Dawkins help groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

The lessons I learned from Coach Dawkins I still use today. He played in the NBA for a long time and has coached so many good players. He is the best coach I have played for with how he is able to mentor and share his knowledge.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Frank Bertz?

It’s crazy but I don’t think Frank and I ever played a full game of one on one against each other actually.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA that went to the NBA?

Malcolm Brogdon at UVA. He was ACC player of the year and defensive player of the year.

Please name your five best teammates of all-time?

Nathan Knight, Jerome Robinson, Justin Pierce, Andy Van Vliet, Dave Cohn

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

Jordan, LeBron, Kevin Durant, Kareem

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

I‘ve found it’s the unpopular opinion in Europe but I am a Lebron guy.

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

I have not seen it but the first movie was good!

Thanks Matt for the chat.

There were times when Germany had the GOAT of German basketball Dirk Nowitzki doing his magic on the floor and on many occasions was able to decide games the way guys of his abilities should. He always had a nice supporting cast with solid German role players Like Pascal Roller, Demond Greene or Sven Schultze, but Germany didn’t have the luxury of other European nations of being able to display extra NBA talent the way countries like France or Balkan nation countries did. Despite not having the luxury, German did record a Bronze at the 2002 World Championships in Indianapolis and an incredible Silver at the 2005 European championships having that one main star with Nowitzki. After that their success was slowed down mainly because the German wunderkind wasn’t always on board or just couldn’t always be the superman. In that time the German federation did all they could adding guys like Shawn Bradley, Chris Kaman, Julian Sensley Hurl Beechum and Makai Mason just to name a few. Some of these guys played for the German national team, so why not try to naturalize a player if there is a chance?

In the last 10 years there was massive progress done in the German youth development as the number of German NBA and Euroleague players playing right now is at an all-time high. The Fraport Skyliners were the first to make huge strides developing Johannes Voigtmann who had the opportunity to play for the Washington Wizards but chose CSKA Moscow and has been an Euroleague player since 2016 along with Danilo Barthel who also is a solidified Euroleague player in Turkey. At the moment Germany has also an all-time high number of NBA players with Dennis Schroeder, Daniel Theis, Maxi Kleber, Isaiah Hartenstein, Isaac Bonga, Moritz and Franz Wagner. Even if Germany was embarrassed at the 2019 World Championships having a slew of NBA talent there, you can never go wrong with suiting up with the best talent you have. Henrik Rodl couldn’t mesh the team together in 2019, but possibly Gordon Herbert could who has been head coach since 2021. He has even more NBA talent now with shooting star Franz Wagner of the Orlando Magic and possibly another NBA player with Austin Reeves?

Austin Reaves (6’5”-G-98, college: Oklahoma) is a 196cm shooting guard that was born on May 29th, 1998 in Newark, Arkansas. He comes from a family that has been connected to sports as both parents played collegiately at Arkansas State. His mother was an all-conference forward and averaged over 20 points per game in her final season while his father played point guard and was tied for third on ASU’s career assists chart (384). His brother, Spencer, played at Central Missouri (NCAA2) and is currently in his fourth professional season and first in Germany with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen while previously having played three years in Spain. Brother Austin began his basketball career at Cedar Ridge High School averaging 32.5ppg, 8.8rpg, 5.1apg as he held a 128-16 (.889) record over his four seasons. He then played two seasons at Wichita State University (NCAA) playing 65 NCAA games averaging 4.1ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.1apg as a freshman and 8.2ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 42.4%, FT: 82.0% as a sophomore. He helped the team win the MVC title in 2017. He then transferred to The University of Oklahoma (NCAA) and played a total of 56 NCAA games and really heightened his game there. As a junior he averaged 14.7ppg, 5.3rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 25.9%, FT: 84.8%, and as a senior averaged 18.3ppg, 5.5rpg, 4.6apg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 86.5%. In his two years there he scored in double figures in 48 of 56 games and exploded for 41 points and 32 points against TCU. He wasn’t drafted, but was invited to the 2021 NBA Summer League playing for the Los Angeles Lakers averaging 6.5ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 29.2%, 3PT: 18.2%. He then went to training camp and made the team and is currently averaging 5,7ppg, 2,6rpg, 1,3apg in 21 minutes shooting 31% from outside. He has scored in double figures 6 times double including scoring19 points against Sacramento, 16 points against Charlotte and Memphis and 15 points against Dallas where he was 5/6 from the parking lot. He is one of those players that has reached the NBA with hard work and making the Lakers believe in his abilities. Credit to him for finding a place on a roster that seems to almost have more stars than Boston does squirrels on the Boston Common.

The rumor of Austin Reeves possibly playing for Germany was leaked on Friday morning by German basketball writer Lukas Feldhaus. When I heard the news, I had to rapidly get some facts and used my best reliable source on the matter. This person knew about the rumor, but wasn’t to well informed on the matter. My source told me ‘not true at this time’. Ok so I figured let some time pass and see if some other tweets follow up on the matter and they did. The brother of Austin, Spencer plays for German Pro A team Bayer Giants Leverkusen. The club tweeted to Spencer ‘Could you help with some information’. He answered with ‘Can’t confirm or deny’. Ok so that was a very neutral tweet, but definitely a step forward. I didn’t even try contacting somebody at the German basketball federation knowing I wouldn’t get very far and went right to the man who is at the center of the source Spencer Reaves. And low and behold, there is something brewing on the horizon with the possibility of his brother Austin playing with the German national team in the future. A big shout out to him for trusting me and giving me the news about the possible future of his brother in Germany. ‘Our grandma is German. That opens up the possibility of us having the citizenship. Most of the papers are submitted and now we will see. I have heard from sources we have a really good chance. He told me he would be interested in the future if things didn’t interfere with his career in the NBA’, warned Spencer Reaves.

Austin Reaves is a rookie in the NBA and still a bit unknown overseas. Of course the basketball junkie will know who he is, but one easyCredit BBL legend didn’t know who he was as I asked him about his thoughts of Reaves possibly playing for Germany. But there were enough other guys that could give their two cents about the matter. One of those guys was current Alba Berlin guard Jaleen Smith who dueled him last summer in the NBA Summer league. In that game Jalen Smith who held his own in the game and could have had chances of making the NBA opted for the Euroleague had a solid game scoring 13 points and dishing out 3 assists in a tough 73-72 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. Reaves contributed 11 points in the win and left a lasting impression. ‘He is a really smart player that can shoot the ball really well’, remembered Jaleen Smith. The American who played his rookie season in Germany with the MLP Academics Heidelberg is also positive he would make an impact with the German national team. ‘He would come in and play hard. That is why he fits in so well with the Lakers’, stressed Jaleen Smith. Even if Reaves were to be able to suit up for Germany, the German basketball federation shouldn’t lose sight of the bigger picture, it’s own talents. ‘ I think he would help the team a lot short term. It is always good to get an NBA player. However I do feel that in the long term it is wiser if the German basketball Federation continues to focus on developing young German players’, stressed Risto Vasiljevic (Fraport Skyliners Juniors). Austin Reaves could be that high profile shooting guard that Germany never had. Ok so currently they do have Andi ‘I can shoot out the lights’ Obst and Maodo Lo who are very good players, but landing a Reaves would give the team a new dimension. But making the transition from the American game to the euro style isn’t always easy and something everyone needs to be aware of before making bold predictions about how quickly he could make an impact. ‘He has the potential to be the shooting guard that Germany never had before. He seems to be a humble and high character guy that puts wining first. But it also would depend how his playing style would translate to the European play style. There is definitely a learning curve between the American and European game’, warned MLP Academics Heidelberg guard Anthony Watkins. For a young player like Fraport Skyliner Len Schoormann, he is ready for the challenge in practice should he be teammates with the ex Wichita State guard. ‘I would be happy to be teammates with a player like that. I don’t know much about him. I always give 100% no matter who the player is’, warned Len Schoormann. But at the end of the day, it is his brother Spencer who can give the best scouting report. ‘ I think Austin’s biggest strength is his IQ and understanding of the game. He knows what his job is and what he must do for the team to have a chance to win. He can be a playmaker or just be a catch and shoot guy. Also plays really hard and defends at a high level. Whatever the team needs’, stressed Spencer Reaves. It will definitely be interesting to see how this development continues and how quickly everything can be finalized for him being able to play. With Reaves, Germany can be a medal contender with their NBA talent should they be on board. With more NBA talent on board, Germany head coach Gordon Herbert will have his hands full to mesh everything together and not witness another disaster like in 2019 at the World Championships.

It seemed like a basketball eternity since the last time the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were in their own living room. It had been exactly 47 days since their last game which in a way was happy and sad. It was glorious in that they won their last home game of 2021, but also sad that 8 year veteran Konstantin Schubert played his last home game as he had decided to finish his studies in Norway and interrupt his basketball career. In that time, Frankfurt have been up and down and living on the road and entered the game against BBC Coburg with a 7-7 record and in seventh place. Their opponent the Bavarian team had been playing some really amazing basketball having won four of their last five games and were riding a three game winning streak. The incredible thing about their winning streak was that they had won the three games by a combined total of five points and won three classic nail bitters against Orange Academy, Giessen and Hanau and the last two by only one point. The question was would they make it four close battles in a row or would the Fraport Skyliners Juniors put a dent in their winning streak? BBC Bayreuth didn’t have to make that exciting as their energy and intensity tore apart the Fraport Skyliners Juniors in the second half as they prevailed 96-85. The Bavarian club had massive performances from Princeton Onwas and Nicolas Wolf who combined for 48 points, but Spaniard Jose Carrasco (186-G-94) stole the show with 18 dimes, one assist prettier than the other. ‘We were lazy on defense in the first half, but in the second half we wanted it more as a team and played with a lot of energy. When we play with a lot of intensity then we are difficult to beat’, stressed BBC Bayreuth guard Jose Carrasco. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors had ups and downs in the game and just didn’t show up to defend. ‘We can’t give up 96 points. We gave up too much points at halftime and didn’t have enough intensity. We just were never able to find our rhythm on defense’, stated Fraport Skyliner Junior Bennt Schubert.

The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were without Alexander Richardson and Calvin Schaum while BBC Coburg were without Chris Wolf. German 20 year old Jordan Samare who has played 6 easyCredit BBL games made his comeback after being out many months and needed no time to get back into the swing of things. He was aggressive, got touches and executed scoring Frankfurt’s first 9 points. BBC Coburg got American Princeton Onwas going as he would be a menace all night long as he scored twice. Young 19 year old German Jannis Sonnefeld was also productive with 5 points. With the contest dead locked at 11-11, the Fraport Skyliners Juniors found some daylight going on a 8-1 run to lead 19-12. 33 year old veteran Marco Voeller took advantage of 19 year old Sonnefeld and scored twice including a nice left handed hook shot and Schubert also remained aggressive and scored twice. But Frankfurt was unable to keep the momentum allowing the guests to counter and come back. Big man Leon Bulic who has the Croatian/Austrain citizenship scored twice in the paint to cut Frankfurt’s lead down to 23-20. Both teams continued to have their runs as Frankfurt closed out a fine offensive spectacle with a 7-2 run to lead 30-23. Voeller scored again, Philipp Hadenfeldt used his speed to sneak inside for two points and Jordan Samare iced a trey at the buzzer. ‘It actually wasn’t in our game plan to get Samare going. But it was great that he came back so strong. He did a good job taking advantage of the mismatches’, stated Bennet Schubert.

In the second quarter both teams continued to play good offensive basketball as defense continued to take a back seat. BBC Coburg came out on fire and cut into the Frankfurt advantage trailing 32-28 getting inspired play inside as Bulic and Onwas scored. 22 year old German Nicolas Wolf who is the younger brother of Injured Chris Wolf made a put back. Wolf’s game got stronger and stronger as the game went on. He had developed nicely in Baunach playing 41 Pro A games, but then injured himself badly. It took sometime to get back, but he looked like new again. Wolf continued to get the ball and allowed his mid range game to shine as he scored two more buckets cutting Frankfurt’s lead to 34-33. Despite Frankfurt getting key baskets from Voeller and Meredith, BBC Coburg stayed on their heels as Princeton Onwas scored three times tying the game at 39-39. This guy was almost unstoppable. He could create for himself, but he was most dangerous when he got the ball close to the basket. The deny defense on him was nonexistent. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were able to get away again momentarily as Hadenfeldt and Meredith nailed three’s for the 46-39 advantage, but continued to be lax on defense allowing easy baskets over and over. Tyrese Blount and Wolf scored big baskets only to be outdone from Marco Voeller who dropped a trey a few seconds before the break as Coburg trailed 50-47. ‘We were unable to close the door on them when we had the chance. We had big problems trying to stop Onwas. They scored too easily in the paint’, stated Bennet Schubert. ‘Both teams were shooting combined 6/18 from outside, but in the paint Frankfurt was at a crazy 85% and Coburg at 63%. Frankfurt had the slight 13-11 rebound edge but 9 turnovers while Coburg had 4 turnovers.

The Fraport Skyliners Juniors lost control of the game in the third quarter and BBC Coburg would never look back. Princeton Onwas continued his high percentage shooting scoring twice as he finished the game shooting 63% from the field. Carrasco made one of his prettiest passes of the night whipping a bullet pass over his shoulder. He finished with a double double 11 points and 18 dimes and 6 steals. ‘I have played for many teams in Spain and have learned a lot. I am most happy when I can pass the ball to everyone. I like that Magic Johnson saying that if a player scores, he is happy, but if a guy makes an assist then 2 are happy. But most important is that we got a road win’, stressed Jose Carrasco. Frankfurt kept the lead as Hadenfeldt hit a three and Schubert made a vital tip in, but they couldn’t control Onwas. He made two more lay in’s as he was a champion at picking his spots. BBC Coburg also got support from other players as Blount made a nice reverse lay up and Sonnefeld scored inside for the 59-58 Coburg advantage. Frankfurt would grab the lead back one last time as Schubert scored for the 60-59 advantage. BBC Coburg now took control. They had many different guys that stepped up. Wolf continued to do what he wanted as his mid distance game was on spot scoring twice and 2013 JBBL finalist Sven Lorber also scored a trey for the 70-62 lead. Frankfurt just didn’t have enough intensity on defense and couldn’t contain the Coburg bigs. Bulic scored again and made free throws and Carrasco finished the third quarter with a lay in and 75-67 visitiors lead. ‘We have played really well in the third quarter the last games and it really helped us. We were patient and did a good job finding the isolations’, stated Jose Carrasco. ‘They played with more energy. We didn’t have the energy we needed. If you don’t bring it for 40 minutes, then you have problems winning’, said Bennet Schubert. Both teams shot at a high percentage from the field at 60% while the three point shot was no factor. Frankfurt continued to have the 23-14 rebound edge, but coughed up the ball 16 times while BBC Coburg only had 4 turnovers.

The Fraport Skyliners began the fourth quarter with a bang erasing the guests 8 point lead with a 8-0 run to dead lock the game at 75-75. In the run, the Fraport Skyliners received massive support from Jordan Samare again with 5 points while Marco Voeller steered home 4 points as the big men did their jobs. But then came the turning point of the game as BBC Coburg exploded on a 13-0 run to lead 88-75. Their much enforced defense sparked their offense. BBC Coburg made 5 gigantic defensive plays with 2 blocks and 3 steals to help fuel the run. Carrasco led the defense with a block and two steals while Sonnefeld also made a block and Onwas a steal. Onwas also continued to provide his lethal offense scoring twice while they also got good support from Wolf, Lorber and Sonnefeld who also scored. BBC Coburg now held control of the game until the end. Meredith continued to carry Frankfurt as best as he could in the comeback with 8 points and two three’s, but the defense just couldn’t string along some stops. BBC Coburg continued to be in attack mode as Carrasco scored two more baskets as well as continuing to deliver incredible passes including one to Blount. But with time running out, the Fraport Skyliners Juniors saw themselves staring at a peak that was just to steep to climb. ‘We stepped up as a team and defended really well. We pressured really well and they felt uncomfortable with it. When we play good defense, it makes it easier for us to play transition’, stated Jose Carrasco. ‘We didn’t have the needed energy and self confidence to stop them. That run showed we weren’t there. We were in the game and had chances, but didn’t use’, them stressed Bennet Schubert. BBC Coburg was led by Princeton Onwas with 26 points. Nicolas Wolf added 22 points and Leon Bulic 15 points while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Jordan Samare with 25 points. Matthew Meredith added 18 points and Marco Voeller 17 points. BBC Coburg shot 58% from the field and 24% from outside and had 26 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 53% from the field and 36% from outside and had 32 rebounds and 20 turnovers.

Anthony Watkins (194-PG-00) is a 21 year old 194cm guard playing his first season with the MLP Academics Heidelberg. Last season he played with the Basketball Loewen Braunschweig (Germany-BBL) playing 13 games. He scored 6 points in 11 minutes in aloss against Ludwigsburg. He has the German/American citizenship and lived in Chattanooga and attended McCallie High School before coming to Germany in 2019. Last season he split time with the Basketball Loewen Erfurt (ProB) playing10 games avergaing 3.6ppg. He also played with the OeTTINGER Rockets Gotha 2nd team (Germany-2.Regionalliga) and in in Jan.’20 moved to VfB 1900 Giessen Pointers (Regionalliga) playing 8 games averaging 10.0ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 66.7%, FT: 58.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the tough 109-73 loss against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg.

The MLP Academics Heidelberg suffered a tough 109-73 Loss against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. The bubble finally burst for them ending their 11 game losing streak. You know what a long losing streak feels like having lost 9 games this season. Has it been difficult to see this historic club losing so much?

It was confusing watching them lose so much. They are a historic and very well respected organization. Plus they invest so much money into high level players each season. I thought that they would be a much bigger factor in the season. But for whatever reasons they just didn’t click. It was just a matter of time before they would click. It was only unfortunate that it would be against us.

Did the MLP Academics give the EWE Baskets Oldenburg perhaps too much respect?

We knew that they were going to be hungry. It was a must win for them and was a big opportunity to make a statement. We feel like we can play against any team, but we need some things to go our way in order for us to beat top teams. We knew that it would be a tough game, but we had no fear or apprehension going in.

What was your personal feeling when you heard that Ingo Freyer had been named coach of the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. A guy known for the run and gun play.

The timing was funny. I had never played against Ingo Freyer, but had seen his practices when I was playing in Giessen. His style is that of a G-League team. Very high paced and that seven seconds or less system. He really has his teams get up and down the court. They have a very talented roster with guys like Heidegger and Michalak who can really score and have had crazy games this season. Getting Freyer was an interesting move, but when seeing the result of the game against us, it doesn’t surprise me that they put up 109 points.

The EWE Baskets Oldenburg began on fire scoring 27 points in the first quarter. That is the kind of team everybody knows Oldenburg should be. Did you sense a different mentality in their play because of having a new coach?

I wasn’t in the Oldenburg locker room, but I can only imagine what it was like. They had a must win situation. They were hyper focused, but that is human nature when there is a new boss. They wanted to prove themselves and show their best side. At the end of the day things clicked for them and not us. Both teams had the same mind set going in, but they executed better.

The EWE Baskets Oldenburg gave up only 33 points at the break. Ingo Freyer has never been known as a defensive specialist. I can remember players saying he never practiced defense in Hagen. What impulses did he give for this total change in playing defense?

They played super aggressive defense. Everybody got after it. It was as if someone had told them to light a fire. Ingo took timeouts for defense something you normally wouldn’t see happen. They overplayed us on defense and I haven’t seen that happen before. We weren’t able to get into our sets easily. They did a good job pressing full court and Brekkott Chapman had to bring the ball a lot. They took us out of our rhythm and we didn’t expect that type of pressure that they gave us.

The EWE Baskets Oldenburg won the second half 58-40 and played a very consistent game. What gave Heidelberg the biggest problems on the night?

We got destroyed on the boards. We got outrebounded by like 24. You can’t win games in the BBL when you rebound like we did. We are a bunch of dogs that hang our hats on defense. We have to find our way back to that. We are a group of dogs that are hungry and want to fight to stay in the BBL. They didn’t feel us, but we felt them. If we can play the brand of game that we are capable of playing then we will look a lot different.

A big strength in the game was the rebounding for Oldenburg. Is that a negative area in the team play? Are there just not enough Brekkot Chapman’s on the team?

We do play small ball and do take some stray offensive rebounds in stride. Our defense dictates our offense. For us it always starts on the defensive end. We want to get stops and get on transition. The way we rebounded in Oldenburg has nothing to do with our personnel on the team. We have shown enough this season that we can lock in on defense.

How do you see the long run of the EWE Baskets Oldenburg? This is a team that just has to stay in the BBL

This league is so competitive. That was a big win for them. It helped close the gap. It is hard to say at this point. This league is so strong that anyone can beat anyone. You can’t sleep on any night. There is a lot of parity in the league. But that win makes it look a lot more optimistic for them. They have to continue to hold their momentum. We are only worried about staying in the league.

Michalak and Heidegger combined for 41 points. These two guys are pure scorers. They seem rejuvenated under Ingo Fryer. Could you feel that in their mentality?

They played with a lot of freedom. When you give guys of that calibur that kind of freedom, then it can get very scary. You have to slow them down and break their rhythm. When guys like that find their rhythm early, then it gets difficult to stop them. When you give them easy looks and they score, then the basket looks a mile wide.

I guess it becomes hard to win when Geist and Ely combine for 5 points. Have teams realized a key to winning is keying in on them more?

At start of the season no opponent had a game plan for us. They found their spots. Now they are adjusting to the situation. The main thing now is that we find a way to play hard nosed defense again. We have to get stops again and get on transition. That will help us play good offense again.

You next play the Niners Chemnitz where you lost a tough crunch-time loss. What will be key for splitting season series?

We have to turn the page from Oldenburg. We can’t forget what happened, but also take the next step forward shutting teams down and making the game scrappy. We want teams to adjust to our style and not the other way around. We have to look at their personnel and see how our brand of basketball can limit what they do best. We will focus 80% on us and 20% on them.

You came to the MLP Academics Heidelberg with a focus. Were your expectations to high?

I don’t believe that my expectations were too high. My goal each season is to find a place where my game can continue to develop and where I can take the next step. Coming to Heidelberg was 100% the right choice. I have found great mentors in Kelvin Martin and Shy Ely who have taken me under their wings. For me this situation is a lesson of patience. I feel that I have the tools to help my team. If I didn’t feel it then I wouldn’t be here. But at the end of the day coach makes the decision who plays. He wants to win just as I do. My job is to help make the guys at my position better each day. I bring positive energy. My time will come. It’s not an easy situation, because I love the game so much. Some of my best memories in life have happened on the court. It is an incredible feeling to play at the highest level. I will just continue to make the best of my situation and try to help the team win.

You have played only 5 games. How disappointing has the season been for you? How have you held up on the mental side?

I just focus on what I can control. The situation has been made easier because I’m surrounded by guys that genuinely like each other and want to win. Even during the 9 game losing streak, everything could have become toxic, but everyone stayed positive. It’s been tough because I’m a competitor. I will continue to work hard and focus on the team first and do all I can to help us stay in the BBL.

Did coach Frenki tell you at the start of the season what expectations he had of you? What kind of relationship do you have with him?

I was told that I have an opportunity to prove myself day in and day out. I feel like my relationship with him has grown. Frenki is a very loyal person. You have to prove yourself character wise. We are both very introverted. I could have been more open from the start. He respects my work ethic and authenticity. I respect his passion for the game. He has given me many things to work on and try to reduce certain mistakes. It is his decision if I get a chance to play in a game. We have a solid and good relationship.

Despite not playing much minutes do you feel like your improving? Talk a little about how you feel your game has continued to develop?

I always want to become a better shooter. That is something that I’m always working on. You can always become a better shooter out of certain situations. I’m happy with how my shot is going and my pick and roll reads. I always try to think one step ahead. My comfort level on the court has risen tremendously. I always felt comfortable on the court and always think about the task at hand. Last season it felt more like a blur being on the court. But I think that comes back to making that transition form Regionalliga player to BBL player. Now I feel like I can be ready and create for myself and others rather then see situations happen and react and hope things go well.

How has Shy Ely helped you with your game? He is like a mentor for you?

Shy has been a mentor. I love his demeanour and being that silent assassin. I also love his dedication to the game at his age. He still takes shots from the gun after practice. He was one of the first guys I met last summer when I was training with the U-20 national team. I began to pick his brain then and still do now. He is just a great guy.

Even if the season has been tough, Rickey Paulding has continued to lead by example. In what part of the game has he impressed you most at age 39?

I hope to play against him in Heidelberg. When you think BBL in Germany, you think Rickey Paulding. He is the identity figure of the BBL. It is so surreal seeing the Paulding Burg in Oldenburg. He is the ultimate role model for young players. Every young player should aspire to be like him. I have never spoke with him personally, but have only heard good things about him. He is unique and admiral.

Where does Tom Brady rank with the greatest athletes of all-time?

It is hard not to put him first. He has accomplished so much. He kept up that code of excellence until the end at age 44. That is mindboggling. As a basketball guy, I have to give the nod to Michael Jordan. I say Jordan 1A and Tom Brady 1B

Super Bowl prediction Bengals-Rams?

It is hard to say. I want both to win. I like both quarterbacks. The Rams have a team I created on Madden. I think that game will be a tossup 50/50 because the Bengals have the momentum. But I will go with the Rams, but wouldn’t be surprised if the Bengals won.

Thanks Anthony for the chat.

Eric Kibi (198-F-90, college: ACU) is a 31 year old 198cm forward from Ontario, Canada that is playing his tenth professional season and first with CD Tinguiririca San Fernando (Chile-Liga Nacional) after starting the season with US Avignon/Pontet Basket (France-NM1). Last season he played with The Hague Royals (Holland-DBL) averaging 12.7ppg, Reb-1 (10.3rpg), 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 15.2%, FT: 51.7%. In 2019-2020 he played with Libertad Sunchales (Argentina-La Liga, starting five): 8 games: 1.8ppg, 2.4rpg; Argentinian La Liga: 15 games: 14.5ppg, 10.1rpg, 2FGP: 47.8%, 3FGP: 36.4%, FT: 53.0%: Torneo Super 20: 9 games: 3.6ppg, 3.0rpg, released in Dec.’19, later that month moved to BHY Tiro Federal y Deportivo Morteros (Argentina-La Liga Argentina, starting five): 15 games: 14.5ppg, 10.1rpg, 2FGP: 47.8%, 3FGP: 36.4%, FT: 53.0%. In 2018-2019 he played with Golbey Epinal Thaon Vosges (France-NM1) where he played 5 games averaging 6.8ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.4apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 29.2%, 3FGP: 27.3%, FT: 73.3%, in Dec.’18 moved to MBK Handlova (Slovakia-SBL) playing 3 games and then in January 2019 signed at Al Mina (Iraq-IBL) where he averaged 22,0ppg, 15rpg and 2,0apg. In 2017-2018 he played with C.B. Torrons Vicens L’Hospitalet (Spain-LEB Silver) where he played 33 games averaging 4.5ppg, 3.2rpg In 2016-2017 he played with Randers Cimbria Basketball (Denmark-Ligaen) playing 31 games averaging 10.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 70.2%. In 2015-2016 he played in Germany with the Hertener Loewen Basketball (Germany-ProB) playing 3 games averaging 4.7ppg, 8.0rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, left in Oct.’15, in Jan.’16 moved to KK Strsljen Gusinje (Montenegro-Erste Liga) playing 4 games averaging 3.8ppg, 5.5rpg, in Mar.’16 signed at London Lightning (Canada-NBL Canada) playing 23 games averaging 1.7ppg, 2.5rpg. He also played with Basketball Club Rendsburg (Germany-Regionalliga), Ottawa SkyHawks (NBLKibi Canada) and BG Halstenbek/Pinneberg (Germany-Regionalliga). He started his basketball career in 2008 with Jacksonville College (NJCAA) where he played until 2010. He then played a season with UALR (NCAA) playing 29 games: 4.4ppg, 4.2rpg. He finished his college career in 2012 with Abil.Christian (NCAA2) playing 20 games: 8.2ppg, 5.7rpg, FGP: 60.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com in 2022 giving his 13th interview.

Eric thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Your basketball journey keeps going. Since we last spoke you have played for 2 new clubs and in 2 more countries. Does the basketball globetrotter life never get old for you?

Hello Miles, yes that is correct, and not yet, I still love the game and enjoy getting better everyday.

You began the season with US Avignon/Pontet Basket (France-NM1). You had played in France before three seasons ago. How did you experience the whole COVID situation there. At the moment the Covid numbers are alarming in France.

When I was there actually it was not too bad it got really bad around December which was around the time I left.

You put up pretty good numbers in 7 games Averaging 10.1 PPG, 6.9 RPG on 58% FG shooting, in 27 minutes per Game. Why was your stay so short? Was it crowded with American Duane Morgan?

I was actually there on a 6 week medical contract replacing Duane while he was Injured.

You then moved to CD Tinguiririca San Fernando (Chile-Liga Nacional). How have you experienced COVID there? What has been the most challenging thing to cope with?

The Covid hasn’t been too bad here, we did have one game postponed but I’d say the most challenging was entering the country. Chile has some of the most strict restrictions in the world.

This was your second time in South America having played in Argentina in 2020. I believe in Argentina are higher profile players, but how would you describe the play and skill level in Chille compared to Argentina?

I would say it’s similar, the Argentinian players might be a bit better but the foreign players in Chile and Argentina are the same. I’d say they might be stronger in Chile because you can only have two compared to Argentina where you can have 4, so the foreigners have to be very strong and productive in Chile.

How is it in general being on a team with only Chileans? How have they taken you in and do they look up to you on account of your history overseas and experience with the national team?

It helps to have one other American-Chillean on the team, Julius Holt. He has helped me adapt a lot to this situation. As far as my experience, I think yes they look up to me because of everywhere I’ve played but this Is a veteran group and I’m also learning from them as well, a few guys have won championships in this league in the past.

You had monster rebound games in the last two swiping a total of 37. A 20 rebound and 17 rebound game. Is this a league that really benefits your game much?

I think everywhere I’ve gone I’ve always rebounded but yeah here since I get more minutes than usual there’s opportunities to get more than usual as well.

Your taking a fair amount of shots shooting 14/33 from the field in the last two games. Do you feel like your accuracy will come in time?

I’m not too worried about it, they are shots I’ve made throughout my career and that I work on everyday in the gym by myself so knowing I put the work in, eventually they will start to fall like they did Sunday night. It’s also about learning my spots with this team and fitting into a team that’s been together for two years.

Your 31 years old, leading the league in rebounds at 14 and minutes at 38 per game. Are you in your prime? How do manage those minutes ? What are you expecting most from your game?

To me a prime is when mentally and physically you hit that peak and meet right in the middle. Physically I been in my prime since I was about 24, 25..But mentally as far as IQ, mental preparation, watching film..I hit that that prime at about 29..and now at 31 with the way I take care of my body I feel like I’m right smack in the middle of my prime, which leads me to being able to handle 38 minutes a game. What that being said what I expect of my game is always bringing constant which is energy and rebounding and the rest takes care of itself.

Your living in a beautiful area called San Fernando 2 hours away from Santiago. How have you experienced life off the court?

Yes it’s been very nice, it’s very warm right now. I’ve had the opportunity to hit the beach a few times and enjoy the weather.

You last played in Germany in the 2015-2016 season with Herten. Would you like to play in Germany again before you hang it up? Why do you feel haven’t you returned since Herten? You must have had interest from teams

I have but the older you get it’s not always about prestige. Once I left France I had the opportunity to sign in Pro A Germany and Leb Gold Spain but things broke down last minute. So it always depends on the situation. The older you get you also start to understand your worth and where you will be most successful and you try to put yourself in those situations as much as possible to highlight your strengths so that your game can grow and right now I felt like South America was the best place for that.

Super Bowl predictions: Bengals-Rams

Honestly Bengals are a great story with how far they’ve come since winning 4 games two years ago. I also love the OBJ and Matthew Stafford perseverance stories. I don’t have a favorite really, I will just enjoy the game and may the best team win.

Supposedly Tom Brady retired. Will that stand or do you think he will return?

Well he just retired today haha, but I think that’ll be it for him, I think he’s given everything he could to the game.

Thanks Eric for the chat.

Sometimes things happen so quickly and a bit unexpectedly, but that is how it is in the basketball world. One day your far far away in Kazakhstan and as distant from the big show as some NBA commentators were recently from telling the German Wagner brothers apart. That is exactly how it was almost two years ago as BC Astana was battling Russian team Enisey in a Epic VTB game as there were two Hill’s on the court. The one was Malcolm Hill who had had a stellar career at Illinois (NCAA) and the other was Jeremiah Hill (188-G-95, college: Valdosta St.) who had had a stellar career at Valdosta State (NCAA2) and had had to pay his dues. The only difference was that in 2022, Malcolm Hill is living the Cinderella story in the NBA with the Chicago Bulls while Jeremiah Hill is playing great basketball in Russia and continuing to move up the basketball ladder. Two years ago, both Hills helped beat Enisey as Malcolm had 29 and 23 points and Jeremiah had 17 and 15 points. They both had an unforgettable season together which Jeremiah will never forget. ‘The best memory on the court was probably the game we played against Enisey, it wasn’t like a killer game from either of us but probably the game we were just having the most fun possible. Off the court could have been any of the bowling nights but probably one when his mom came to visit and we all went and ate and played’, remembered Jeremiah Hill. After his time with BC Astana, Malcolm Hill had a solid season with Hapoel Jerusalem and this season had the confidence and game to give the NBA a shot. He played NBA Summer League and began in the G-League with Birmingham where he totally left his A game on the floor earning his ticket to the NBA. Jeremiah is watching from a far and proud of for his ex teammate. ‘It’s awesome and I couldn’t be anymore happy for his success. He has always had the body and ability to play at that level and it was just a matter of time’, stressed Jeremiah Hill. Seeing a guy like Malcolm Hill do his thing and make his NBA dream come true helps him see what is possible. ‘Him making it just shows me more that it’s all about timing and just to make sure I’ll be ready if given the shot’, expressed Jeremiah Hill. He understands that there are millions of guards in the world trying to do the same thing so it’s about luck and timing to reach the NBA.

Jeremiah Hill who lists current Atlanta Hawk player Delon Wright as his toughest opponent in school was born on September 4, 1995 in Richmond Hill, Georgia. As a freshman he balled at Savannah State University playing 32 games averaging 6.4ppg, 1.5rpg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 77.1%. He was named to the MEAC all rookie team. Despite having a solid freshman year in the NCAA, he opted to take a step back and move to the NCAA 2. Even if there is a difference between the two leagues, you do find very skilled players in division 2. ‘The only difference between the levels is big men. That’s the biggest thing I got between playing the two levels. Obviously there are the elite guards at D2’, stated Jeremiah Hill. He scored in double figures in 12 games including hitting Md-E Shore for 17 points and scored 16 points against Coppin. He also produced 15 points against Hampton. He then played at Valdosta State (NCAA2) from 2014-2017 playing a total of 60 games. His game really took off as he was able to improve his scoring average each season. He was still finding his game in his first season averaging 7.1ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.4apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 41.5%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 77.3%. His game took a giant leap as a junior as he averaged 14.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 46.7%, FT: 80.0% and exploded as a senior averaging 20.2ppg, 5.5rpg, 4.4apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 77.3%. He was put in a super situation and was able to play his game and succeed. ‘Just the role I had and the pieces around me. My junior year could have been a really big year for us without injuries and me missing half the season’, stressed Jeremiah Hill. He demonstrated his consistency scoring in double figures in 42 of 60 games. He had some really explosive games, but a team highlight was his fondest moment there. ‘When we won the regular season my senior year. It just showed the work we done all year paid off but it’s been a while since college so the games start to get blurry’, commented Jeremiah Hill. He remembers teammate Blake Justice getting the best of him during 1-1 battles in practice and personally had some incredible games including netting 36 points and 33 points against Shorter, 35 and 33 points against Mississippi College and 33 points against W Alabama. He scored 20 points or more 16 times. He racked in achievements like All-GSC Player of the Year -2017, All-GSC 1st Team -2017, Reese’s NCAA D2 All-Star Game -2017, NABC NCAA D2 All-South District 2nd Team -2017, and NABC NCAA D2 All-America Team -2017.

The Georgia native who names Beau Justice, Josh Lemons, Askar Maydekin, Braian Angola and Mareks Meijers as his 5 best teammates of all-time turned professional in 2017, but didn’t make it overseas right away. Instead he had to pay his dues playing semi-pro ball with the Jacksonville Giants (ABA). The amount of division 2 players overseas is minimal, but usually guys that had MVP seasons will make it overseas sooner or later. Despite having to test the ABA waters, it was an experience that he won’t forget. ‘I won’t really get into much about my representation at the time but I had great friends in Jacksonville that really changed the way I played basketball so it was more beneficial than anyone probably could believe’, warned Jeremiah Hill. Instead of going overseas in 2018, he opted to stay at home and get further seasoning and grooming in the G-League with the Lakeland Magic. He was lucky to have come into a positive situation where there was obviously a lot of competitive spirit, but at the end of the day had teammates that cared for each other. ‘The experience was not like any other team I think in a long time. We had a group of guys who didn’t care about who was successful because that would make us all winners. It does have its difficulties but at the time I was just trying to advance my career forward. It did take a while to get the confidence to believe I could play with them but after that it’s just the same game I had always played’, remembered Jeremiah Hill. In 46 games he averaged 6.9ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 73.1%. His finest scoring performance was netting 30 points in a 130-101 win over Maine as he was the best man on the floor drilling home 8 three’s. ‘The best part of that game was how genuinely happy everyone was for me. If you watch the game back and look at the bench it showed what kind of team we really had. A lot of it had to do with my position coach breaking film down about shots I need to be taking and then coach allowing me to play’, stated Jeremiah Hill. Guards are as present in the basketball world as flies are on earth in steamy areas like Texas in summer. There are so many talented guys in Europe that could play in the NBA now, but don’t because of limited roster spots. But at the end of the day, the guards in Europe are getting by very well and understand that there is a lot of financial reward overseas. ‘I had a great time and would do it all over again if I had to choose. There are millions of guards in the world trying to do the same thing so it’s about luck and timing really of getting the chance. For a lot of guys it’s much better to be the main player making a lot of money in Europe rather than being a back up or sometimes even third string’, warned Jeremiah Hill.

The ex NCAA 2 player who has Jordan, Lebron, Kobe and Steph Curry on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore finally made the trek to Europe in 2019 joining BK Astana (Kazakhstan-National League) after playing NBA Summer League with the Orlando Magic averaging 8.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 5.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 34.8%, 3PT: 33.3% where he played two seasons .He didn’t need any adjustment time putting up magnificent stats in both competitions in his first overseas gig and in the VTB averaged 12.5ppg, 3.7rpg, Assists-3 (6.0apg), Steals-3 (1.4spg), FGP: 41.9%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 86.1% and in his second season VTB season averaged 15.7ppg, 3.7rpg, 5.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 78.8%. He helped the club win the cup in his first season and the league title in his second season. Especially the team in his first season was extra ordinary being able to overcome adversary at the start of Covid. ‘That team was special because of the bonds we built. Both me and Malcolm Hill took the time to get to understand the guys and ways to be able to push them to be better confidently. Then the addition of Thompson helped because he was almost the same mind as me and we were able to play well together’, expressed Jeremiah Hill. It was during these two years that he was confronted with Covid that effected the whole world. It wasn’t always easy, but he had to cope with it just like everyone else. ‘I was there as it really hit the sports world and initially we thought it was all going to pass or at least that it wouldn’t be a problem to play without fans. Honestly the worst part was realizing how serious it was and having to be all the way across the world without my family. The only thing we did was play video games and wait. Truthfully it has not really changed my perspective on much other than being grateful of the time you have with people you may not get to see again’, stressed Jeremaih Hill. He showed his true colors in the VTB league a top league in Europe scoring in double figures in 23 of 42 games. He had some real explosive games hitting Enea Zastal for 30 and 26 points, scored 26 points against N.Novgorod and produced 24 points against Khimky. In his first season he had solid games against Euroleague powerhouse team CSKA Moscow scoring 12p/6a and 14p/7a. In both games he battled against ex NBA and current top Euroleague player Mike James who combined for 50 points including 27 points in 19 minutes in the second game. ‘He is a warrior but it all comes back to his work ethic in the off season. He works out so hard to be able to do the things he does and it just shows undersized guards can still be very successful in the higher leagues of basketball. After he was not an opponent anymore then you have a different eye when watching him play but at the time I was just trying to figure out how to slow him down’, remembered Jeremiah Hill.

This season he is suiting up for Parma Basket Perm once again showing his class in the VTB. The club is holding their own in the very competitive VTB league fighting for a playoff spot and reached the next round of the Fiba Europe Cup. After proving he is a top point guard in the VTB, I would expected him to move up possibly finding a Eurocup team. ‘Yeah you could say that, I wouldn’t say at this point in my career it is as difficult to get jobs as making the right decisions to continue to push forward. It’s all a part of a plan so I won’t speculate what could have been or things like that’, stressed Jeremiah Hill. He is on a team that is comprised of six different nationalities and he is the only American on the team something that is rarely seen at the higher levels. He actually hasn’t profited with IQ, but in another area. ‘It’s not been an issue really only thing probably would just be fitting in the team that had so many guys returning. The part that is helping is that most of them are much older so they have little nuggets here and there. Experience is the biggest teacher so just playing more so I will be able to learn more each season’, stated Jeremiah Hill. His game has really profited from veteran guard Adas Juskevicius who is playing his 13th season at a high level and has witnessed Euroleague and Eurocup. ‘Adas is a great person and we get along great on and off the court but it helps to have someone off the ball capable of creating and having a different approach of attack’, said Jeremiah Hill. Most people compare his game to Steph Curry as he is having another solid season in the VTB scoring and dishing out assists while shooting above 40% from the parking lot. His IQ is his biggest strength which has allowed him to play with anyone, but he also knows he has to prove to others that he can compete at both ends of the court. ‘Defense has been the biggest focus of this year to try and show that I may not be the best defender but that I am a capable one’, warned Jeremiah Hill. His work ethic and heart is absolutely huge mainly because he never had it easy having to prove his worth before coming overseas. It is obvious that getting up the basketball ladder isn’t always a swift encounter, but he is getting more and more known each season. ‘I believe that people are noticing that I am more than capable of playing through all levels. The chip is not as much of a problem as it used to be because I’ve already proven myself so not many people look at it as a downfall anymore. It always will have changed my work ethic because of how hard the initial door was to break down’, warned Jeremiah Hill. If he will be another Hill to reach the NBA is unknown now, but Malcolm Hill is a great role model and example of what can happen if the work ethic is there, because he needed some grooming time before making his dream come true. Jeremiah Hill has the work ethic and heart and now just needs luck and timing to continue to reach his goals.