Tim Frazier (178-PG, college: MacMurray) is a 178cm point guard that was born in Springfield, Illinois and grew up there. He began his basketball career at Lanpher high school and then played at Mac Murray College (NCAA3) form 2013-2017 playing a total of 52 NCAA 3 games. He only played 5 games in his first two years but then got his chance averaging 7.6ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 40.1%, 3PT: 32.8%, FT: 60.5% as a junior and13.8ppg, 4.6rpg, 3.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 67.5% as a senior. He has had professional experience having played with the Springfield Panthers (MBL) and with Team Milwaukee (Eurobasket Summer League in Chicago) averaging 6.3ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.3spg. He wasn’t able to be a part of the 2021 Howard Hoops Combine in Germany, but will take part in 2022 and spoke to eurobasket about his career.

Tim thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?

I am in a great place. I’m very confident in my game and ready to play at the next level. I train everyday and give my all during every workout.

Before we get to basketball, I have to ask you how often you get asked about Tim Frazier the NBA player of the Grizzlies? Does it happen a lot and how do you deal with it?

It’s been happening since he was at Penn State. People would make jokes or references to me about him. I’m ok with it .

How big has your urge been to be a professional player since leaving school? You have played semi-pro ball in the States.

I been wanting to play pro since I was a child. Nothing has changed. The more I play The more Urged I am to complete that goal.

Have you also had a 9-5 job the last years to pay the bills? Were you able to use your degree and work in the field you wanted to?

I have had jobs at harbor freight, a mentoring program , and Fedex . While I chase my goals I still need to support myself.

What do you believe has been the biggest obstacle for you not having landed overseas yet? Obviously you don’t see many NCAA 3 players reach the professional level, but it has been done.

My biggest obstacle has probably been lack of consistency in networking or being in front of the right people. I have been to combines but I don’t think I have been to enough of them to really get my name out there.

Let’s talk a little about COPVID-19. What were the biggest challenges for you during this time? Was it tougher keeping that normal work out routine?

At first it was very hard because all of the gyms were closed and they removed all of the rims from the parks. I did stationary drills at home and many body weight exercises until the gyms opened back up

With everything that you have experienced during COVID-19 off the court how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

I always appreciated things because as a child I grew up in a poverty stricken environment so I had to make a lot out of a little. So when the gyms were taken away and given back to us I started to spend more hours perfecting my craft because I didn’t know if we would be stripped of the gyms again.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August. How excited are you to show your abilities in front of GM’s and coaches?

I’m very excited. I never been overseas before so to actually be in front of the people who can help me reach my goal it’s breathtaking.

How excited are you to be playing in Germany? What do you know about the country and it’s basketball? Have you had friends or ex opponents or teammates play there?

I’m very excited. I actually don’t know much about Germany but I’m eager to experience it . I don’t know anyone that has went to play in Germany.

How did you get in contact with CEO and founder Ron Howard? Did he find you or did you find him?

I found him . I saw his social media profiles and contacted him because I believe he can help me reach my goal of becoming a professional basketball player.

Ron Howard is a legend. He is the voice for the unknown players wanting to get a job overseas. What kind of relationship do you have with him and what do you appreciate most about his character.

I would like a great mentor that I can come to for many tips . I appreciate that he is patient , understanding , and very helpful.

What is your biggest goal at the Howard Hoops Combine besides getting a job overseas?

My biggest goal is to learn a little bit about how the business works outside of basketball . I want to network with as many people as I can.

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

If I had to choose one person I’ll say Nate Robinson because of my athleticism.

What was it like growing up and even in the NCAA 3 concerning your height? Did you hear the usual comments about your height?

I was doubted by many people but I worked two times harder than the next men so it wasn’t a big problem.

Talk a little about your game. You’re a point guard that can fill up the stat sheet easily. Is your versatility your biggest strength?

Yes it is . I’m a hustle player that never gives up. One small slip up from the next player and I’ll edge them. Whether it’s on a rebound , fast break and etc

What other strengths does your game have at both ends of the court?

I’m very quick and I’m strong for my size. It’s going to be a battle every play.

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

I work on everything but conditioning and shooting are my main priorities.

You played at MacMurray College (NCAA3) from 2013-2017. What kind of an experience was that for you?

It was very different for me because there weren’t too many people that even wanted to play basketball after college . So my drive was a bit more intense than others.

You only played 5 games in your first two seasons. How tough was it experiencing those growing pains at the start?

It was very tough on me mentally but I stayed consistent and prepared my game so that when my shot came there would be no doubt that I could help my team.

You really picked up your game in your last two seasons averaging 7.6ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 40.1%, 3PT: 32.8%, FT: 60.5% and as a senior 13.8ppg, 4.6rpg, 3.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 67.5%. How do you feel did your game grow as a senior?

I started to figure out how to slow the game down and take advantage of every opportunity my opponents gave me. I became a lot more poised and it worked for me.

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

He always told me I needed to get physically stronger so that I wouldn’t be a liability at my heigh. . He also showed me that sharing the ball more helps me out in the end and opens me up more.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Marshall Corbon?

Marshall was a good player and worked just as hard as me. It was challenging but I believe I got him a little more than he got me.

You have professional experience with the Springfield Panthers (MBL). What kind of experience was that and what do you feel did you gain from it?

I got to see what it was like to play 48 minutes in a game and I had to condition more to be able to be successful in this league.

In 2019 you played with Team Milwaukee (Eurobasket Summer League in Chicago) averaging 6.3ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.3spg. What do you remember from this summer league and how brutal is the competition at those places?

This was challenging for me because everyone there wanted to play professionally and played their hearts out. I learned a few new things about myself and worked on them afterwards.

Who was the best player that you ever battled that went to the NBA?

I haven’t played anyone that made it to the NBA but there are countless that played overseas.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I’m going to list the people that really helped their team in all ways more than scoring . Josiah Gordon (high school ) , Derek Bourke (college ) Marshall Corbin (college ) ) Michael Cameron (college ) Hunter Flesner (college )

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

Michael Jordan Lebron James Kobe Bryant Stephen Curry Shaquille O’Neal

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

My pick is Lebron James. When I judge someone on being the greatest I look at all around gameplay . He dominates every stat line and has done it for years.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I saw was the new Space Jam . I enjoyed it although I think it’s more for the kids to watch.

Thanks Tim for the chat.

Andew Tiller is a 173cm point guard that was born in Sumpter, South Carolina and grew up there. He played at Morris College (NAIA) playing 10 games averaging 8.5ppg, 1.3apg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 75.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I currently reside in Columbia SC, There are more open gyms here then they are in Sumter SC so I really play against good competition when I can.

You haven’t found a professional team since finishing at the University of North Georgia (NCAA2). How was the whole process for you in the last year trying to find a club or did you postpone it because of the difficulties with COVID?

I was at Morris College when COVID-19 came along. Ever since the school has been closed so I’m looking for another revenue to do besides school ball. Hopefully overseas!!

How big has your urge been to be a professional player since leaving school? Why do you believe hasn’t your dream of being a professional player panned out?

Ever since I saw my good friend Ja Morant make it to the professional stage it just gave me a big chip on my shoulder like man that could have been me! But I made some bad decisions throughout my career off the court that made me have a setback for a while!

Let’s talk a little about COPVID-19. What were the biggest challenges for you during this time? Was it tougher keeping that normal work out routine?

I was incarcerated during COVID-19 so I really didn’t get to see the whole quarantine thing but while I was incarcerated I did what I could and managed to gain a lot of weight.

With everything that you have experienced during COVID-19 off the court how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

It gave me a lot of discipline and more aware of health issues also it taught me to be patient

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August. How excited are you to show your abilities in front of GM’s and coaches?

I’m very extremely excited I think about the combine every day I feel like this is my last opportunity to really make it to the next level without having to go back to school!

How excited are you to be playing in Germany? What do you know about the country and it’s basketball? Have you had friends or ex opponents or teammates play there?

I have never been to Germany before so it’s an experience that I can’t wait to endure! I love to travel to different places and see new things

How did you get in contact with CEO and founder Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.)? Did he find you or did you find him?

I found coach Ron on Instagram I saw he posted about the combine and looked into it and he’s been a great help so far

Ronald Howard is a legend. He is the voice for the unknown players wanting to get a job overseas. What kind of relationship do you have with him and what do you appreciate most about his character.

He’s an upfront guy he keeps it plain simple and to the point! I wished we had more men like him trying to give athletes opportunites

What is your biggest goal at the Howard Hoops Combine besides getting a job overseas?

Show off my talent. I take pride in this game!

How big is the chip on your shoulder? You have played at the NAIA level, but surely believe you can play at a higher level. How do you balance that chip on your shoulder?

It’s just like a waiting game. You have to wait your turn so flowers take a little longer to blossom

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 173 cm guard that is a sharp shooter, can facilitate and gets the team going. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would compare my game to Allen Iverson and Klay Thompson. I feel like I’m a smooth shifty guard that loves the three point

What other strengths do you have on the offensive end? What would you classify as your absolute biggest strength on the court?

My court awareness and IQ

How much passion do you take on the defensive end? You are a great full court defender. Do you feel that you can raise your defensive game at the next level?

I’ve been always taught to guard my man full court man to man since high school. That’s what won us a state championship at Sumter High School in 2015

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

Getting to the basket and finishing on bigger defenders and also learning how to keep that switch on when I’m playing I tend to get lazy when I could still be killing.

You played at Morris College (NAIA). What kind of an experience was that for you? What was your fondest moment there?

I loved playing at Morris I was right at home and I got a chance to meet new players and coaches My favorite moment is the first game of the season it was a packed gym at home and I went for 24 pts. And wasn’t in the starting line up.. I just was going thru a lot so when I got that chance to prove myself I did.

How did head coach Clarnece Houck groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He taught me to not be scared to shoot the ball I used to be very hesitant at scoring but one game he told me if I don’t shoot he’s taking me out. Ever since then I gained a trigger finger lol

Who won a one on one in practice you or Demetrius Knox?

We use to go at it in practice the battle would go both ways but he got the best of things lol I love playing against him and with Demetrius he taught me a lot as well, already being that he had experience playing in college already.

Who was the best player that you ever battled that went to the NBA?

Ja Morant . He went to crest wood high and I went to Sumter we were crosstown rivals. I knew he was going to the league when he grew like 6 inches in one summer never seen that before. My greatest game against him was when we went into 4 overtime’s with a sold out crowd we won the game with the clutch free throws I hit. I had 16 points in Overtime I didn’t score at all during the 1-4th quarter but he still ended up having like 47 points lol that was crazy.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Raymand Johnson, Isiah Moore, Andreus Ramsey, Demetrius Knox, Cedric Rembert

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

Micheal Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Ja Morant

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

Mike

What was the last movie that you saw?

Space Jam 2

Thanks Andrew for the chat.

Tyler Dean (196-G) is a 196cm guard from Simpsonville, South Carolina. He began his basketball career at Southside Christian high school. He then played a season at Geneva College (NCAA3). He then played two years at State University of West Georgia and finished at the University of North Georgia (NCAA2) playing three seasons and played 69 games. His best season was in 2018-2019 where he averaged 6.3ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 26.5%, FT: 63.6.He spoke to germanhoop.com about his basketball career.

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

At the moment, I’m in Rome, Georgia, and basketball life has been okay. The gyms in Rome aren’t fully open yet, so I’ve had to improvise to try to stay in basketball shape.

You haven’t found a professional team since finishing at the University of North Georgia (NCAA2). How was the whole process for you in the last year trying to find a club or did you postpone it because of the difficulties with COVID?

I postponed it because of covid. But, I’ve been trying to stay in the best shape that I can until everything started opening up again.

How big has your urge been to be a professional player since leaving school? Why do you believe hasn’t your dream of being a professional player panned out?

Being a professional player has always been one of my dreams since I was a kid, and that same love for the game has not changed. I believe it didn’t really pan out is because of covid. I didn’t want to risk my health with everything that was going on

Let’s talk a little about COPVID-19. What were the biggest challenges for you during this time? Was it tougher keeping that normal work out routine?

One of the biggest challenges was getting some shots up and actually getting to play. It was definitely tough trying to keep a routine since everything was closed down. So, I did a lot of running and shooting in my driveway a lot.

With everything that you have experienced during COVID-19 off the court how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

I do. 2020 has been really tough mentally. But persevering through all of the obstacles that came my way made me very tough minded.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August. How excited are you to show your abilities in front of GM’s and coaches?

I’m very excited it has been a minute since I’ve played organized basketball.

How excited are you to be playing in Germany? What do you know about the country and it’s basketball? Have you had friends or ex opponents or teammates play there?

I’m very excited! This is my first time ever leaving the U.S. in my whole life. One of my old teammates, Shaquan Cantrell, actually played out there for a year or two. And one thing he told me was that is to always play with a chip on my shoulder.

How did you get in contact with CEO and founder Ron Howard? Did he find you or did you find him?

One of friends, Korley Grier, told me about it and I immediately hit Ron up seeing if there were any spots available.

Ron Howard is a legend. He is the voice for the unknown players wanting to get a job overseas. What kind of relationship do you have with him and what do you appreciate most about his character.

I don’t really know much about him. But I’ve seen what he has done to help players like me get an opportunity to keep doing what we love, and I appreciate him for that

What is your biggest goal at the Howard Hoops Combine besides getting a job overseas?

My biggest goal is to make sure I get better every day while I’m there, and to make connections with the people there.

How big is the chip on your shoulder? There are guys at this combine that have JUCO and NAIA experience, but you have played levels higher at the NCAA 2. Your drive must still be big because you didn’t play at the NCAA level.

I’ve always had to play with a chip on my shoulder. I’ve always had to fight for my minutes in college so I’m taking that mentally with me to Germany.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a guard that can take it to the hole, are a good spot up shooter and solid defender. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I couldn’t really tell you. I’ve heard different players, but I don’t know if I can pinpoint who I actually play like.

What other strengths do you have on the offensive end? What would you classify as your absolute biggest strength on the court?

I think one of my strengths offensively is reading the defense. I used to play point guard all the way up to my senior year in high school. And I think my biggest strength is being versatile. In college, I played and guarded every position.

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

One area that I’m working on is my creativity to create shots for me and others.

Despite that you were able to reach the NCAA 2 and played at State University of West Georgia (NCAA2) for two years. But also there you were unable to get minutes. How aggravating was it once again not being able to get minutes. How did this effect you mentally and how did you deal with it?

It was pretty aggravating because I never had to worry about that in high school. But I had to remember that I was only a freshmen at the time, and whenever my opportunity came to make the best of it

You then finished at the University of North Georgia (NCAA2) playing 69 NCAA 2 games and was integrated better and one season averaged 6.3ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 26.5%, FT: 63.6%. How do you feel did your game mature here?

I think my game matured pretty well there. Being there helped my become a way better rebounder and being tough.

How did coaches Chris Faulkner and Chris Evans groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

They taught me to always go hard at all times, and to never quit.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Shawn Hopkins?

I actually don’t think me and him ever played one on one. But if we did I’m betting on myself.

Who was the best player that you ever battled that went to the NBA?

The best player I’ve played against had to have been Rui Hachimura

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My high school teammates: Dwight Hall and VJ Saxton.
My UNG teammates: Kj Jenkins he plays at New Mexico now. Shaqaun Cantrell.
My West Ga teammate: Steph Branch

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

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

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

I’m always going with MJ. He’s the GOAT.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Space Jam 2

Thanks Tyler for the chat.

Jaleen Smith (6’4”-PG-94, college: UNH) is a special player that has had to prove himself everywhere where he has been in his career, but his unending will to be the best he can be combined with supreme work ethic has always allowed him to make the next step in his career. The Freeport, Texas native has had to work himself up from the NCAA right up to the best league in Germany called the easyCredit BBL. He averaged only 5,6ppg as a freshman at the University of New Hampshire, but then made a great growth spurt with his game improving his out put each season going from 10 to 13 to 15 points as a senior. Coming from a lower conference with the AEC didn’t promise him a ticket to Spain’s ACB league or the Italian Serie A, two top leagues, but instead was introduced to the German second division Pro A MLP Academics. He lived in a beautiful city called Heidelberg which has one of Germany’s most famous castles and he could have easily spent a lot of time there taking in some of the breathtaking views and dream about the NBA, but instead opted to grind in the gym. There he also had to pay his dues and only averaged only 7,6ppg as a rookie, but never sunk his head in the sand like a terrified ostrich, but just kept believing in himself and averaged 12,9ppg in his second season. This still wasn’t enough for an automatic contract to Germany’s top league easyCredit BBL. But top club MHP Riesen saw something special in him mainly thanks to his old New Hampshire coach Josh King who happened to be an assistant there to top coach John Patrick. He was able to convince them in a try-out and the rest is history. He had a super third season averaging 10.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 82.8% taking another step and continued his amazing maturation as a player averaging 15.2ppg, 5.0rpg, Assists-3 (5.3apg), Steals-2 (1.8spg), FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 87.5% and winning the league MVP title. That season got him on the radar of Euroleague teams and also NBA team Utah Jazz that invited him to a work out where he once again proved his worth as a player and in turn got him a 2021 NBA Summer League invitation with the Phoenix Suns. His extreme rise in overseas basketball is not self-evident, because his game has been growing in a special way similar to the way Grizzlies guard Ja Morant has in the last years. His ex coach Josh King has had a front row seat from the early days in New Hampshire to the last years in Germany and seen how it has matured best. ‘Jaleen has expanded his game and grew so much during his time in Ludwigsburg. He has always been a versatile player but John Patrick gave him the opportunity to do it at a higher level and Jaleen made the most of it. I think the biggest step Jaleen made as a player was being more vocal and confident, he became the leader of our team and the coach on the floor’, warned Josh King. The basketball world is starting to realize that he is the real deal, and ex coach Josh King who just got his first European head coaching job with USK Prag recently has those very special stories and memories that he is ready to share with the young bucks looking for new role models. ‘I only coached Jaleen for one year at New Hampshire but one thing people need to know about him is that he is an every day guy. In the fact that he NEVER takes a day or play off and I knew during that year if he kept this same mind set and work ethic he would be a good pro and I think the best is yet to come for him in his pro career. My fondest memory of Jaleen in Ludwigsburg and just the entire 20-21 season and just watching him compete every game. We had a team with so many pieces but Jaleen was the heart and soul of our team and led us to a 30-4 regular record and regular season champions in one of the best leagues in the world. He was named MVP for season and rightfully so. Not bad for a guy from the University of New Hampshire who was never first team all league’, stressed Joey King. Jaleen Smith‘s Cinderella story continues to move swiftly as it takes on a new chapter with the Phoenix Suns in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

Instead of heading back to Europe and strutting his basketball stuff for a new Euroleague team in August, Jaleen Smith who last saw the movie Rush Hour 2 decided quickly to give the NBA a shot after winning the 2021 easyCredit BBL MVP as his name now is in the heads of many not only overseas, but also back in the States. Despite being in mega stress as a common German might say at anytime of the day in their busy world as using those strung together American phrases has become more and more common over the years with German folk, I reach the ex Heidelberg guard In Las Vegas on the day before his first game against the Los Angeles Lakers as his excitement is growing and growing each second as he is accompanied by his wife and son ready to take on the NBA as he is ready to work towards his dream of playing in the NBA. It is obvious his eyes never lit up more than when he could hold his baby son in his arms for the first time, but being able to play in the NBA Summer league has to be close. ‘I can’t wait for this opportunity. I’ve been watching these games for a while now and now family and friends can watch how I’ve progressed throughout the years on live tv. I’m blessed to be put in the position’, stressed Jaleen Smith. The last weeks have been like a fantasy as he seemed to be breathing NBA air everywhere. You can’t say enough about his agent Teddy Archer who has to be one of the young hardest working guys in the business. His other client Tyler Larsen can attest to that helping him make the next step in Germany in the easyCredit BBL with Bamberg last season. ‘I just got in contact with Phoenix through my agent Teddy Archer. He’s been working his butt off this summer and he’s put me in a great situation with the Suns. I’m honored to be playing with the NBA Finalist’, expressed Jaleen Smith.

His basketball life has never been a cake walk. Nothing was given to him as he has worked very very hard for every opportunity. The NBA has been on his mind the whole summer which left little time to explore exotic places in the world. Instead he had that uncomfortable gym aroma every day of massive sweat and was grinding his behind off to get a tad better every day. ‘I’ve been mostly in the gym getting ready for all these minicamps with the 76ers, Jazz, and now the Suns. It’s been my busiest summer in my pro career’, added Jaleen Smith who believes that all the criticism that Team USA took leading up to the Olympics help fuel their desire to win the Gold. Being able to play in the NBA Summer League is an experience that not every player can achieve so the scoring guard had to be 100% prepared so when he stepped on the court against Los Angeles he would be ready. You never know where Magic Johnson might be lurking in the gym. He just hauled in some old heads with Russell Westbrook and Carmelo Anthony so he might just be looking for a younger guard with overseas experience and that team ball mentality. ‘I’ve been getting used to the ball and the expanded 3 point range since I’ve been doing these workouts. Those are big differences from Europe, I can tell you so far’, said Jaleen Smith. For German basketball fans, watching the Phoenix Suns will be interesting because there are two other easyCredit BBL players on the roster with Jon Axel Gudmundsson who played with the Fraport Skyliners and gives heaving bombs from way down town a new meaning and Karim Jallow who has taken the BBL by storm last season being Germany’s best player. Now he will be teammates and see another perspective to their games that he didn’t see before. He definitely remembers both guys games well. ‘You can’t leave Gundmundsson open or he’s a bucket from 3. I’ve been glad to play with him and for scrimmages I’m glad he’s on my team because I’ll find my shooters. Karim has been killing it in Germany the last couple of years and I understand he wants expand his game to the NBA to see where his game is. I respect it. He’ll always have Germany for him if he doesn’t make it with the NBA’, warned Jaleen Smith.

It will be very interesting to see where the American will stack up on this roster. It is no secret that most NBA Summer League rosters are filled with young hungry players just out of the NCAA, but every here and there you see older guys. The best example is 31 year old insane scoring genius Kyle Fogg who graduated from Arizona (NCAA) in 2012 and has had an incredible professional career playing in the ACB, winning the easyCredit BBL scoring title in 2016 with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven and a few years ago put up crazy Russell Westbrook stats of 34/8/7 in China. Despite having played only four years of pro ball, Smith is one of the oldest on the squad as only Jo Lual-Acuil Jr and Michael Frazier are older. Frazier by the way was briefly with the MHP Riesen in 2017 in pre season where Smith was the last two seasons. He definatley has an edge over the younger players on the team. ‘I think it’s a pro to be older because guys are professionals and they know what it takes to win games and that’s how it’s been since we got to Phoenix for camp. Everyone is doing what they do well and are playing hard’, added Jaleen Smith. He will have a lot of down time and will probably see many well known heads walking around. The NBA Summer League is a great place to make connections. So why not be like on the court and also be aggressive off the court, but never losing one’s composure. ‘I’m grateful to meet anyone of the NBA stars at this place. I’ve seen a couple of stars walking around my hotel but I’ve been trying to act like a professional’, laughed Jaleen Smith.

So how well will a Jaleen Smith who is confident that a Russell Westbrook will fit in with the Lakers and do well be able to perform at the NBA stage? For his ex coach Josh King there is no doubt that his ex player will be able to hold his own. ‘I think Jaleen will do very well in the summer league. Jaleen is a grown man and in the summer league there are a lot of younger players so I expect him to do very well. Jaleen isn’t a flashy player, he does so many things well and I expect him just to play his game and others will notice his true value as a player’, warned Josh King. When your living in Europe and have duties in the early morning, staying up and watching the NBA Summer League can be a big challenge. I woke up this morning and quickly checked Jaleen Smith‘s box score. My eyes popped up like Beetle Juice as I saw the stats of 15 points and 12 rebounds. I wondered wow he was really aggressive on the glass. But at second glance it wasn’t him. There is also a big man on the squad with Jalen Smith. Then I scrolled down a bit and saw his solid stats of 13 points, 1 rebound, 3 assists and 1 steal while shooting a good 7/17. As the true competitor that he was the tight 73-72 loss against the Lakers didn’t heighten his mood into the sky before going to sleep. ‘We didn’t come out with the win. I just wished we got the win. I thought I did OK in the game. Next game for sure I’m going to be better’, warned Jaleen Smith. You always see interesting players at NBA Summer League and that is also the case with ex Texas Tech (NCAA) guard Mac McCung who was already a star in high school in 2015 as he gave the term white men can jump a new meaning. ‘He doesn’t use his athleticism as much as a pro from what I saw but he hustles big time’, stated Jaleen Smith. One NBA player where Smith will be able to see exactly where his game is Ty-Shon Alexander who had similar stats to Smith registering 11/3/2 stats and shooting 5/14 in the loss against the Lakers. ‘We haven’t really matched up in practice but from what I have seen in scrimmages he’s a shot maker and he has a pro mentality to his game. He makes quick reads and does a good job of keeping you off balance with pull-up jumps and finishes in the lane’, stressed Jaleen Smith. Sometimes I can read the mind of a player. Obviously Smith wants to get the NBA contract and play in the best league in the world, but his big goal in Las Vegas is something else. Something he has attempted to do from day one back in New Hampshire and has continued to help him move up the basketball ladder even if it wasn’t fast, but always step by step. ‘This whole process this summer is to get better and play better competition throughout all of it. I feel like my game has gotten sharper playing against other talented guys’, warned Jaleen Smith. It will be interesting to see how his journey will go the rest of the way in the NBA Summer League. One thing is for sure, there wasn’t a Laker guard better than Jaleen Smith in this first game. If Magic Johnson observed the game then he will have noticed Jaleen Smith.

Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.) is an ex player that spent many years overseas and since retiring has focused his energy on helping unknown players get exposure by organizing games and in many cases helping them find professional jobs. He founded Howard Hoops in 2013 where he brought numerous players overseas to help them find jobs and since 2018 has started the Howard Hoops academy where he helps train unknown players and help find basketball jobs. He started Revizion Sports International which helps players get placed on professional clubs. He now has teamed up with ex professional player Japhet Mcneil to form Howard Hoops Combine which had a showcase in Germany in August 2021. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball.

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

Hey Miles, At the moment I’m currently in Minnesota where I reside with my wife and two daughters. Basketball is going great! I’ve been extremely busy all summer long with developing more opportunities at all levels of basketball. I have recently developed an app called ‘HoopSpots’ where you can download it and find out where you can join some of the open runs ( 5vs5) pick up games and partake in specialized basketball trainings to sharpen up their skills before the next season.

Before we get to basketball, please describe how the last year was for you during COVID? What were the biggest challenges that you confronted in your daily life?

The last year during Covid was challenging. Having to be on lockdown not being able to work, train or live a normal life was difficult. Although, it was able to help me rethink about how I can still be successful while not being actively training or coaching.

With everything that you encountered off the court with COVID, how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

I have always been a strong man mentally and physically but, what I would say it did was make me realize family is extremely important and to cherish every moment I can with them.

In our last interview a year ago, you had started RSI as well as thinking about coaching a college team. How did your basketball career off the court continue to develop in the last year?

Yes, when we last spoke I started RSI and was able to manage Jaylon Pullen, Pindo Drammeh, Chris Miller, Denzel Brito, John Murray & Max Montag to play during the Covid year until season shutdown. Unfortunately, that’s the same thing that happened for the college season where I planned to coach.

You and Combine Sports CEO Japhet Mcneil have come together and formed the 2021 Howard Hoops Combine. How did you guys come together?

So, Japhet and I spoke about partnering 4 years ago but at the time I could see his energy and passion was geared more at playing professionally still. I couldn’t fault him for wanting to still get paid for doing what he loved.I remember Japhet saying ‘Ron I’m not knocking it, but that ain’t what I wanna do right now’ Fast forward 3 years later we came together to put Germans first Big Basketball Combine that will feature over 20 players from USA and Germany.

The German basketball community is small. Why do you feel did it take so long for you guys to come together and make a great project like the Howard Hoops Combine?

As I always say everything takes time. I had to build a solid reputation in Germany as a business man and show that I could truly provide opportunities for unknown basketball players from America. Now that I’ve done that for 5-6 years it’s time to bring something special to Deutschland where coaches can truly see players in numerous locations in a 3 day time and handpick who they would like to join their club.

Had you seen Japhet Mcneil ball back in the day in Germany? What do you know about his basketball career?

Yes, I had seen him play back before I believe I was playing in Romania at the time he came to play for Heidelberg ProA. I watched some film on him as well in college at East Carolina. He is a solid PG floor general hell there’s a reason why he’s played 13 years pro.

What is the Mission Statement of the Howard Hoops Combine? What is the goal behind this?

The goal behind Howard Hoops Combine is to be able to put players on a platform that provides immediate exposure. This is designed to give players an opportunity to showcase their talents in hopes of being selected to play professional basketball.

How is the Howard Hoops Combine now better than Howard Hoops was? Ronald Howard finds players and helps them get noticed and get jobs while Japhet has been known for developing players in your combine workouts. What else are you guys now doing to make basketball players better?

Each player who attends has the opportunity to participate in group workouts and scrimmages, do combine testing, Live games and interviews. This is something that could be a life changing experience. Our objective is to provide an opportunity for players to make the most informed decision about their future in basketball while providing them the maximum exposure.

This year you have the most players ever with 18 guys plus 2 German players. Talk about choosing the roster this year. Was it more challenging than the last years?

Yes this is the biggest one ever and I believe it’s going to be the best one also. There will be 2 Howard Hoops Combine teams. The way I chose the roster was by giving out 3 scholarships to the combine and then hosting a Howard Hoops Combine in Atlanta selecting more players to participate in this summer’s events. Lastly, Since the tours in the past did so well I have gained the reputation of being able to help players with starting their careers. So the caliber of players wanting to attend just naturally got better.

Which are the players most to watch? You have guys with NCAA, NCAA 2, NAIA and JUCO experience.

Tough one Miles, you really put me on the spot on this one! Although, 6’4 PG Job Alexander from NCAA D1 Cal Poly San Louis Obispo is exciting he is a player. He should go Pro A but I believe he will catch the attention of Pro B clubs. Also Arcaim James Lallemand 6’7 from Eastern New Mexico University NCAA2 & LaByron Cliff Harris 6’7 from NCAA D2 Miles college these two are extreme athletes that play stretch 4 positions that can defend 1-5. I also have a Point Guard who may be one of the most exciting players we’ve seen so far in the 6 years Chris Buckley 5’11 from Baton Rouge Louisiana he was junior college player of the year 2 years ago. Then I have 2 German players this year one who is 18 an up an coming unknown German PG Adrian Worthy and another special upcoming guard who just won a championship in the ProA Niclas Geier. Now, don’t be surprised if you see some others rise up and be noticed as well because it’s some tough talent coming to Germany in August.

Talk a little about the schedule. How many games will there be and against what calibur of German teams will you play?

The players will arrive August 5th and that night at 19:00 they will have group workouts, team practice and live scrimmages. Friday August 6th the two Howard Hoops teams will participate in 2 games One vs each other and one vs a team from the Oberliga near Frankfurt start time 18:30. Saturday is the main event where we will participate in a 1 day tournament in Ibbenburen (ProB) start time 13:00. There will also be guest speakers and a Live Stream. This Howard Hoops Combine is shaping up to be the biggest and best ever. Yes we will have a few guest speakers at the event this year to give players more insight on what it takes to be successful as a pro and what to expect in their first year abroad. We will have a live stream for each day in Germany.

What gives you the biggest kick in 2021 to still organize and be a part of your overseas tours?

The biggest kick for me is being able to meet and experience each and everyone of these young men who give me the opportunity to put them on a platform to pursue their dreams of playing pro. That’s big for me knowing that I’m helping others reach their goals.

Who are the favorites at the 2021 Olympics? Will USA run away with it or will another nation give them a good run for the money?

I think that basketball has evolved around the globe the last 4 years. This will be a very competitive Olympics on the men’s basketball side for sure. My money is still on USA!

Where is Chris Paul now in the discussion of in the best point guards of all-time after winning a ring?

My opinion he is in the top 5 point guards of all time.

Where does sensation Luka Doncic stand right now in the NBA? Is he a top 3 player?

No, right now Luka Doncic is top 8 player in the NBA but if he gets a better team around him I could see him winning a couple NBA finals.

Where do you see the discussion right now of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James? Lebron James couldn’t defend the title this year and why isn’t Kobe Bryant mentioned more in this discussion?

LeBron James is a great player fantastic role model but he isn’t considered the greatest player of all time. Michael Jordan changed the game and Kobe Bryant made everyone feel alive again like MJ did. LeBron brings excitement energy to the game MJ & Kobe brought raw skill talent and displayed what hard work and dedication truly looked like on the court. People are just haters about Kobe but in my eye he is the greatest player of all time. RIP

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

Yes, I saw Coming To America. I liked it a lot thought it had a good story behind it and was great to see the characters from the first one back!

Thanks Ron for the chat

                A day after Franz Wagner´s life changed becoming a Lottery pick for the Orlando Magic and  a millionaire, his ex NBBL(U-19 coach) youth coach Josef Dulibic had a smile across his face that could of lightened up even the grimmest of darkness that has been covering the city of Antalya, Turkey with all the brush fires that have spread across the country. It wasn´t too long ago when Dulibic had his first encounter with Wagner in late summer 2017 when he had just taken over as Alba Berlin youth coach. That was only four years ago, a time where the NBA landscape was filled with a lot less German players. Daniel Theis and Maxi Kleber hadn´t played an NBA game yet, Isaac Bonga and Moritz Wagner wouldn´t get drafted until 2018 and Isaiah Hartenstein was only a big young prospect that had good chances of making the NBA one day. The only player in the NBA in 2017 was Dennis Schroeder.Back in 2017 It had been a few months since Franz Wagner had won the German JBBL(U-19) title with Alba Berlin at age 15 and now at age 16 was ready to conquer the U-19 league. Josef Dulibic remembers that first meeting with Franz Wagner and having those first opening talks with assistant coach Andreas Fischer in late summer 2017. “The first thing I told Franz was that we saw him as a NBA prospect. He was so happy when he heard that, but at the same time very shy about the news. Now four years later he is a NBA Lottery pick. Time really flies”, stressed Josef Dulibic. With another German player with Franz Wagner being drafted, it is so important for the German basketball community. “The German population have seen more and more German players reach the NBA. Bonga and Mo were drafted in 2018 and kids notice that. The more guys that get drafted the better. Kids from towns have to be able to believe that anyone can get to the NBA”, warned Josef Dulibic.

                Franz Wagner was born on August 27^th, 2001 in Berlin and played his whole young life in the Alba Berlin organization. He got used to winning rapidly in the youth area winning the JBBL-U16 final in 2017 against IBAM(International Basketball Academy Munich) in Frankfurt and a year later helped the Alba Berlin NBBL(U-19 team) secure the next title in Quackenbruck against FC Bayern Munich. In 2018 he also added another title to his collection helping Germany win the Albert Schweitzer tournament in Mannheim, Germany with the German U-18 national team. His rapid progression continued as he always was younger than most at every new level and it wasn´t any different as he made his easyCredit BBL debut at age 17 helping destroy Science City Jena 112-55 as he contributed 12 points in only 10 minutes as he went 4/4 from the field and showed his grittiness on defense with 3 steals. That season as a 17 year old, he would score in double figures in 6 games in Germany´s top professional league. He was able to hold his own against older players and continued to develop nicely. He went 4/5 from the parking lot in three games and went 4/4 against FC Bayern Munich from outside in a tough 82-77 loss where he steered 16 points. That season he played 35 BBL games averaging 4.6ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.3rpg and got valuable international experience playing 21 games Eurocup games averaging 2.7ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.6apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 61.2%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 88.2%. In 2019 he made the trek to the University of Michigan(NCAA) where he played a total of 55 NCAA games. As a freshman he averaged 11.6ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 61.0%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 83.3% and as a sophmore averaged 12.5ppg, 6.5rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 83.5%. He showed sound consistency scoring in double figures in 34 games in his Michigan career. As a freshman he scored 22 points against Purdue and 21 points against Oregon and in his second season scored 21 points against Iowa and Indiana. He had already been on Mock NBA Draft boards two years ago before he came to Michigan and remained until the 2021 NBA Draft as he was hot on NBA team´s radars the last years.

            I reached Franz Wagner´s ex U-19 head coach Josef Dulibic on vacation only 6 hours after the German youngster had been taken as a Lottery Pick at #8 by the Orlando Magic. The 206cm versatile guard made German basketball history being the highest German ever picked in the NBA Draft at #8. Ok so he isn´t alone, but shares that spot with legend Detlef Schrempf. He was able to even outlast the greatest German player of all-time Dirk Nowitzki who landed at #9 in 1998.The speculation had been massive for a long time that the German would be picked very high. Landing at number 8 is incredible, but could that Lottery pick notoriety add some unwanted pressure on him? “Franz is a guy that has come so far, he has always needed pressure to push himself. He has always looked for the challenge on the court. If he hadn´t been a lottery pick then he would have told himself I should have been picked higher and continued to push himself to get better. Franz is just a real sport head”, stated Josef Dulibic. Many saw him going to the Golden State Warriors to join the Splash brothers, but coming to the Orlando Magic to be teammates with brother Moritz actually seems like a very good situation for him. Some years ago, the Florida franchise tried to gain success around a nucleus with Aaron Gordon and Nikola Vucevic, but that didn´t pan out. Now the Magic are rebuilding and Franz Wagner should be able to fit in beautifully. “Often guys get drafted, but never get a chance to play 25-30 minutes and be able to learn from their mistakes. But when you’re a Lottery Pick there is more tolerance. Plus being with brother Mo should also help. I see Franz getting a chance with the Orlando Magic”, said Josef Dulibic. Getting a chance right away can only be beneficial for him, but sometimes it doesn´t hurt to get some growing pains and having to fight for minutes. “It is really difficult to say what is correct and better? Getting a chance to play right away or having to fight for minutes. There are so many examples in the past where you never know what is better. I remember Anthony Bennett being the number #1 pick, but he didn´t make it in the NBA. While new NBA champion Giannis Antetokounmpo wasn´t a #1 NBA Draft Pick, but has dominated over the years. At the end of the day there is no regelation. At the end of the day it is all about the player and how much he wants to invest”, warned Josef Dulibic.

            The NBA has changed over the years and that definitely helped Franz Wagner with his chances of not only being drafted, but also being able to be a Lottery Pick. He is a 206cm guard that can defend many positions and simply is versatile. Often teams look for that player that does one thing very well in the past, but then again being versatile is a huge asset nowadays. Plus the way teams play now has changed over the years as well with their lineups. “It is a little surprising that he was taken so high as a Euro player. Picking that classical big man like Pao Gasol and Dragan Bender isn´t as common anymore. NBA teams now like to play with four wing players and a big man. Having these bigger wing players like Mikal Bridges and Jae Crowdor are the new trend in the NBA. Franz fits in well in the NBA now. He is a modern player that plays good defense and can hit the three”, expressed Josef Dulibic. But he can do so much more. His penetration was feared in the NCAA and his footwork is extra special. What could really help make a Franz Wagner go from possibly being a solid NBA player to being an impact player is being able to stabilize his three pointer. He showed in his one easyCredit BBL year in Germany that he could hit from the parking lot consistently being at 39%. In Michigan his shooting from outside dipped down to 31% and 34%. One thing that will definitely help the German in the NBA will be the spacing. “The three point line is farther back, but he definitely will have more space. I watched some videos of him recently and he seemed to have changed the mechanics of his shot. I thought it was better when he was in Europe. But I am confident that his shot will continue to develop in the NBA. NBA teams have such large coaching staffs that they will help him. Franz definitely needs a good shot in the NBA. He has to reach 40%”, warned Josef Dulibic. It definitely will not only be fun, but very exciting to see what kind of path Franz Wagner will take with the Orlando Magic. “It is hard to say how far Franz can go in the NBA. The differences are so minimal. I think the most important thing is which player makes the most out of his opportunity. A player needs to have that hunger to be better than the others, get the chance to play and the character plays a big role as well. Franz has all these attributes to make it”, warned Josef Dulibic.            

Of course Josef Dulibic is very very excited that his ex player Franz Wagner was drafted and knowing that he will have a good chance of having a NBA career, but he also remembers coaching him back in 2017-2018 which still brings him extreme joy. He remembers seeing Franz have unbelievable abilities at a young age. He was always the youngest where ever he was starting in the JBBL(U-16), then the NBBL(U-19) and then with the BBL team. “Young talented players need to be able to have the opportunity to develop quickly. They should never be held up, but given the chance to be able to do as much as possible early”, warned Josef Dulibic. The German was that good that he never even played his second NBBL season, but was rewarded with joining the BBL team. Also off the court, he showed just how gifted he was in the class room as he graduated from German high school(13 grades) at only age 17. He made gigantic steps in 7-8 months in his only NBBL year. “The Alba Berlin NBBL team was filled with so much talent. Franz was the youngest and one of the most important players on the team. You would never have thought that he was two years younger. He was so good without the ball and he knew how to make great decisions. Plus his scoring showed in the top 4 tournament. He always played with maximum intensity and he always gave everything whether it was against the worst team or against the best team”, remembered Josef Dulibic. Many people questioned his decision to go to Michigan in 2019 including myself. I once stated during my play by play of a Pro B playoff game between Lok Bernau and the Fraport Skyliners Juniors in March 2019 that I expected him to stay with Alba Berlin, because legendary Spanish coach Aito was proving that he would give young Germans minutes and he didn´t need to go the NCAA route. Boy was I ever wrong. “Everyone in the organization was sad to see him go to Michigan. He would of surely played 25 minutes in the next season. Now we see that he did nothing wrong. I think that going the NCAA route and getting to the NBA is harder than if you try via Europe. There are so many talented guys in the NCAA. Many were 3-4 years older than Franz and were more athletic. He was able to withstand all that adversary and play well”, stressed Josef Dulibic. You would think after spending an intensive year with him that Josef Dulibic would have enough stories ready for any time one is holed up in an elevator or traffic jam on the highway, but there weren´t many. “I have to be honest that there was no real wow story with Franz. I remember more the little things. I´m a guy that likes to play jokes on others. One thing that I will never forget about him was that whenever I said something, Franz was always the first to laugh. He always knew right away what would happen next from me. Franz is a great guy and the dream of every coach. He has had a fairy tale career until now”, stated Josef Dulibic. An ongoing gag with Alba Berlin is that it is a shame that there were only two basketball Wagner´s. If there would have been five or six Wagner brothers, well then Alba Berlin could have had a Wagner player every two years and had constant basketball enjoyment. Now Alba Berlin can watch from a far as Franz Wagner will take on the NBA and attempt to make his ex club proud.

Bryan Johnson is a guard from Bogalusa, Louisiana that played high school ball at Bogalusa and Bensford academy. He then played at William Carey University. He played at the 2021 Howard Hoops Combine in Germany. He took some time to talk to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Bryon thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how have you held up the last months through this pandemic?

I want to thank eurobasket.com for giving me this opportunity. Through this entire quarantine I have been located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It has been a little difficult to find a gym I must say. Especially, with the COVID cases going up daily.

How have you been keeping in shape best during COVID-19? Did you make a special plan so that you could train and work on your game as best as you could despite the tough times?

During the tough times my gym was closed for the first stage of COVID-19 I just used the outside city parks to stay in shape. I did have to travel a few hours just to use someone’s gym to put up shots work on ball handling and defensive slides sometimes.

How do you feel did COVID-19 make you stronger as a man? What have you learned about yourself that you didn’t know about earlier?

I can definitely say COVID-19 made me a stronger man mentally because it put me in a lot of difficult situations especially when it came time for me to help my family. The difficult times made me realize that I can go through anything as long as I keep a positive mind set and stay consistent.

You are from Louisiana. Talk a little about your childhood. You attended W.T White high school. When did you know that you were hit with the basketball bug?

When I was growing up I watched a lot of sports with my family. My favorite players were Tracy Mcgrady, Derrick Rose and Allen Iverson. I attended Bogalusa high school for a bit then transferred to Bensford Academy. During that changing of schools I met a few coaches and worked out with them a few times. They told me that I had game and should play travel ball , but my family couldn’t afford it. So I just played for the schools and made the most out of my opportunity.

When you were growing up who were your main basketball inspirations and how did they influence your game the most?

I can say growing up my inspiration was my grandfather as he always watched sports when I came to visit him. He would always say, watch grandson you might learn something. I felt that gave me the confidence I needed to get started with sports at a young age.

Talk a bit about the basketball experience that you have had in your life. You played at William Carey University. What kind of experience was this and how do you feel did you benefit most from the opportunity?

I can say my basketball experience has taught me a lot. Especially, when it comes to having chemistry with people and learning how to trust in difficult situations. My time at William Carey University had it’s ups and downs. I had to learn a new system and basically change my game. In high school I played point guard and when I got to college they put me at shooting guard. So I pretty much ran off screens and learned how to play without the ball in my hand. Which helped me push my game to another level. I became a very good shooter in the process.

How big is the chip on your shoulder in general? Have you been one of those guys that was always doubted and haven’t had fair opportunities? How tough is it having to accept your situation and how big is your chip on your shoulder grown over time?

The chip on my shoulder is always going to be there. During my time at William Carey University it was tough. I had to fight for every minute of playing time I got. The coach that recruited me left to go coach at another school after my red shirt year. When he left it wasn’t the same. I wanted to transfer to the Juco he was at, but I would of only had one year to play because it was a community college so I stayed at William Carey University. I honestly should of left because all I did was get recruited over from the new coaches bringing their players in. It taught me a lot about people and how the system works. I became a much stronger person that learned how to just work hard and be consistent.

Do you have any kind of professional experience? Or is the Howard Hoops Combine tour your professional debut?

I have worked out with professional oversees player, but that’s about it. I am really looking forward to my first debut with the Howard Hoops Tour.

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

If I was to compare my game to an NBA player it would be an Avery Bradley or Patrick Beverley.

Your a very good offensive player that can shoot as well as find the open man. But you also give 100% on the defensive end. How much pride do you take on being a hard nosed defender?

I take pride in my defense because I don’t like when the other team scores. It should be a hard battle every time for them.

On what things are you currently working on so that you can continue to get better as a player as you attempt to climb the basketball ladder the next years?

What I mainly focus on is my ball handling and developing my IQ because I believe in making the right decisions at the right time. I feel like if I continue to develop my understanding of the 1 and 2 position the sky is the limit for me.

You took part at the Howard Hoops Combine in August. How excited are you to play in Germany and how hungry are you to show everyone that you have game?

I am very excited to participate in the Howard Hoops Tour. The game will speak for itself. I’m just going to continue to work on my craft and learn from others around me.

How did the contact to Howard Hoops Combine CEO Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.) come about? What was the deciding moment that made you chose to play for him?

I was working out with one of my high school coaches and he was like man you should try and go overseas. So I contacted the coach that recruited me from William Carey University and he told me about Ronald Howard. Then we started from there.

Ronald Howard has a great track record of helping players find jobs. How aware are you that you have a real golden opportunity to get a job because of him?

The coach that recruited me told me that Ronald Howard is the real deal no gimmicks. If you show him you are serious he will be behind you one hundred percent.

Have you met Ronald Howard and trained with him. He truly cares for the best for his players. How have you gone to appreciate him as a coach and person the most?

I haven’t had the opportunity to train with Ron yet , but just by speaking with him on the phone I could feel the energy of greatness. He is definitely someone you need in your corner. The man is about his business.

With what kind of personal expectations did you have heading into the Howard Hoops Combine? What kind of player will we see in Bryan Johnson?

My main focus heading into the Howard hoops tour is to win with my team and enjoy doing it. of course want an overseas contract that would be a dream come true. The most important thing is just learning from other people and continue to get better every day. The type of player you should expect from Bryan Johnson is someone that is going to bring positive energy and confidence to his team.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced on the playground or in a gym that has been in the NBA?

I would say there has been a lot of overseas players and a few G League players I have played against in open gyms I don’t really no them by name.

Please construct your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of 4 heads past or present.


My NBA Mount Rushmore is Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Kevin Durant

Where were you when you heard of the death of Kobe Bryant? How did he influence you the most when you were growing up as a kid?

I was actually sleep at the time and my phone was just going off like crazy. So I woke up and looked at my news feed saying Kobe Bryant and Gigi died in a plane crash. I just couldn’t believe one of the greatest players the world has ever seen dead just like that. Kobe Bryant influenced me with his fade away. My grandfather and Aunt loved to watch Kobe Bryant. He was the first NBA player I remember seeing on TV.

Why isn’t Kobe mentioned in the standard conversation of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?

I honestly believe everyone has their own opinion of who is the greatest. When you take the time and just look at the film of those players you will see the skill level. Kobe Bryant is the most skilled in my opinion out of Michael Jordan and Lebron James. The man’s footwork is off the charts. It can’t be matched at all.

Will you be following the NBA restart? Do you feel like we could see a surprise winner this season with all the drama that has happened with COVID-19?

I will most certainly be following the NBA restart this season. I believe that the Lakers will bring it home this year. It will be a tough road for them, but they will be victororious in the end.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I saw was called Hanna.

Thanks Bryan for the chat.

Jamaal Conley is a guard that will take part at the 2021 Howard Hoops Combine. He played at St Pauls (NCAA2) and has gathered professional experience in Germany with EOSC Offenbach. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

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

You’re welcome! I’m in New Jersey at the moment and basketball life is good now that we are opened back up, we have been closed due to COVID.

Your one of the older guys on board. After leaving St Pauls College (NCAA2), what kind of job did you get? Were you able to use the degree that you got?

I honestly jumped straight into the basketball scene after college, my teammate convinced me to go to camp and that started my journey.

How big has your urge been to be a professional player since leaving school? You have professional experience in Germany with EOSC Offenbach. Why do you believe has it been so difficult to find job opportunities as a professional basketball player?

It was always a goal of mine and the main reason I took the sport serious. My situation is different from certain people just because of the things I’ve had to go through.

Your love for the game has to be huge if your still pursuing the dream now. Is this dream something that you feel will never leave you?

I wouldn’t call it a dream, it gives it an illusion that it can’t be done. I always felt like if I put myself in a position there was a way.

Let’s talk a little about COPVID-19. What were the biggest challenges for you during this time? Was it tougher keeping that normal work out routine?

It was definitely hard, but I found a way to stay in some kind of shape.

With everything that you have experienced during COVID-19 off the court how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

It made me stronger mentally for sure and it also made me get things done and not procrastinate.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August. How excited are you to show your abilities in front of GM’s and coaches?

Very excited, I miss German hoops.

How excited are you to be playing in Germany? What do you know about the country and it’s basketball? Have you had friends or ex opponents or teammates play there?

I’m very excited, like I said I love the basketball atmosphere in Germany. I know that it’s very competitive and people love basketball in Germany. Yes, I know quite a few people that’s played in Germany and actually done some big things. Most of them I’ve played with or against in high school

You are good friends with Howard Hoops Combine founder Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.). You were part of his tours years ago and he helped you get the Offenbach job. How blessed are you to know this gentleman?

Ron is a good dude, that’s my boy. We’ve been knowing each for a long time.

Ronald Howard is a legend. He is the voice for the unknown players wanting to get a job overseas. What kind of relationship do you have with him and what do you appreciate most about his character.

Like I stated previously I’ve known him for a while and we have the same passion to help people and see people be their best.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 6,2 guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I don’t compare to any NBA player, I like certain things about people’s games and just try to work on that skill.

Talk a little about your game. Talk a bit about your biggest strengths on the court. What other abilities do you have besides knowing how to score the ball?

I think my IQ is one of my strengths, defense and passing the ball.

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

There is not really one thing I work on the most. I try to work on every skill needed.

You played at St Paul College (NCAA2). Talk a little about your time there. How do you feel did you profit most from your time there?

My time at St. Paul’s was one of a kind for sure. We had a very close team, definitely the closest team I’ve ever been on, I didn’t have a typical college career for someone who wanted to be pro, but I always knew what my goal was. I think I learned I had another gear and I loved the work.

In your younger days you played against Chris Paul. What memories do you have of those battles?

We didn’t play against each other in high school a lot, but we played in the same YMCA league since we were 5 years old. It was always competitive not just with him, but a lot of the guys I grew up with we were all highly competitive. And most of them turned out to be pros as well.

Who was the best player that you ever battled that went to the NBA?

Julius Hodge. At the time I played against him had never seen a 6’7′ point guard.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Tristan Rankin, Laron Daniels, Maurice Boatwright, Antonio Hargrove, Franklin Studivant

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

MJ, Kobe, Lebron, Magic

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

They are 2 different players, I won’t compare them. Two totally different games.

What was the last movie that you saw?

A movie called The Last Shift. About a guy that was an aspiring writer that had just gotten out of jail and was forced to work at a fast food restaurant.

Thanks Jamaal for the chat.

Job Alexander (193-G-97) is a 23 year old 193 cm guard from Milwaukee, Wisconsin that is taking part at the 2021 Howard Hoops Combine. He began his basketball career at Marquette University High School. He then played at Trinidad State Junior College (JUCO) from 2016-2018 playing a total of 59 games averaging 7.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 15.4%, FT: 68.1% as a freshman and 12.1ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.6apg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 68.0% in his second year. He then transferred to Cal Poly – San Luis Obispo University (NCAA) where he played from 2018-2020 playing a total of 59 games averaging 5.1ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 46.3%, FT: 49.0% as a junior and 4.1ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.4apg as a senior. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

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

At the moment I am in Milwaukee, WI where I was born. Basketball life has pretty much been pro runs at 7am about 5 days a week to compete and sharpen my game so I would consider that great.

Before we get to basketball, please talk how you got the name Job. This is a name I have never heard before and I’m sure your parents had a special reason for naming you like this.

It is a name that my parents liked from the bible and got inspired by an older cousin of mine.

You finished school in 2020 and are still looking for that first pro gig. Despite COVID being active, did you find a normal job during the day while working on your craft at night?

For the most part I did not seek a normal job and I am currently working a basketball ball camp for younger kids as a way to get some side money.

How big is your urge to become a professional player? Is the chip on your shoulder big having played JUCO?

Becoming a professional player is something I have dreamed about since a young kid but it became real my senior year in high school when I put together a path for me to make it. I turned down some division 2 scholarships to go JUCO and prove I could play at the highest level. That being said, the chip has always been on my shoulder.

Let’s talk a little about COPVID-19. What were the biggest challenges for you during this time? Was it tougher keeping that normal work out routine?

The biggest challenge was finding places to play 5v5. For the most part I always had access to weights and a court but due to regulations that was probably the longest I went in my life without playing full court. I also used this time to do more core work and spend more time stretching.

With everything that you have experienced during COVID-19 off the court how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

It really put things into perspective and not to take anything for granted. I got to spend a lot of time with my family as well which has limited since I started playing basketball in college.

You will be taking part at the Howard Hoops Combine in Germany in August. How excited are you to show your abilities in front of GM’s and coaches?

I’m very excited because I haven’t played in a game since my last college game and I understand how big of an opportunity this is. Very eager to start my professional career and knowing that GM’s and coaches will be at the event, I couldn’t ask for more.

How excited are you to be playing in Germany? What do you know about the country and it’s basketball? Have you had friends or ex opponents or teammates play there?

This will only be my second time being out of the country and I do not know much about basketball and Germany besides Dirk. I do not think I know anyone that has played in Germany.

How did you get in contact with Howard Hoops Combine founder Ron Howard? Did you find him or did he find you?

My coach at Cal Poly my senior year (John Smith) put us in contact right after the season ended.

Ron Howard is a legend. He is the voice for the unknown players wanting to get a job overseas. What kind of relationship do you have with him and what do you appreciate most about his character.

I look at him as a mentor just as much as I do an agent. What most stood out to me about him was that he played overseas 9+ years himself which is not true of most agents or even athletes for that matter.

Let’s talk 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?

I think my best comparison is Jrue Holiday based off him being a big guard and playmaker. My size and athleticism also allows me to be a very versatile and elite on-ball defender. I also like the Jrue Holiday comparison because I feel he can do everything on the court his team needs him to do whether it be score, make plays, or defend.

Talk a little about your game. You are a player that can fill up the stat sheet with ease. Would you call yourself a very versatile player?

Versatile is one of the first words that comes to mind because I’ve been asked to do so many things on the court. I have always played point guard growing up so handles and vision is natural. Growing to be 6’4, athletic with long arms I spent a decent amount of time on the wing as well. I like both positions because without the ball I can get out in transition where I thrive, and I can still make plays from anywhere on the court. In the half court I thrive in pick and roll. I use my size advantage to come off screens on good angles to attack. With my defender compromised I have a great feel on when to score it and when to read where the help is coming from to find open teammates.

How much pride do you take on the defensive end? Do you feel like you could be that lock down defender at the professional level?

I take a lot of pride on the defensive end and I think it stems from playing king of the court (3 dribbles) so much. The only way to get the ball is to get a stop without fouling and without help defense. I take that same mentality when I am play on-ball defense in the game which is that I have to get a stop and the advantage is that I will have help in the game. With my height, instincts and crazy wingspan (6’9′) I know I can be a lockdown defender at the professional level.

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

Working on extending my range and getting shots off faster to space the floor even more.

You began your college career at Trinidad State Junior College (JUCO). Every player that I have interviewed that played JUCO have stated that JUCO was very tough, but an experience they would never have traded for anything. Was it the same for you?

JUCO basketball definitely tested my love for the game of basketball and exposed my mental toughness and determination. Trinidad State like most JUCOS is in the middle of nowhere and I rarely got to go home. This time at Trinidad made me a better basketball player and taught me how to grind for whatever I want. I would not trade this time in my life for anything.

You really improved your three points shooting in JUCO. What was the biggest reason for such a huge rise in shooting percentage?

I would say the biggest reason was that me and my juco coach (Mike Folda) would get shots up in the morning before I had class the fall semester my sophomore year and continued throughout the season. We would warm up on midrange and then catch and shoot threes (stand still and relocated).

You then played two seasons with Cal Poly – San Luis Obispo University (NCAA) playing 57 NCAA games. What kind of experience was it playing in the NCAA and how do you feel did your game grow in those two years?

Playing at the D1 level means playing against a lot of taller and more athletic players. My game grew because the better defense, detailed scouts, and just overall talent forces players to become more methodical on the court. In the two years I learned to really think the game through even playing at a fast pace

Was your 15/6/6 game in the 71-45 blow out over Riverside one of your strongest personal games in the NCAA?

In the blowout against Riverside I remember starting off the game scoring right away which had me playing aggressive and stuffing the stat sheet.

How did head coach John Smith groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Smith helped me with my preparation for games, practices, and longevity. He stressed the importance of dedicating more time to film of both myself and upcoming teams. He also helped my before and after basketball practices with jump rope and stretch routines.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Junior Ballard?

Me and JR have played a lot of one on ones but I probably won the one you are talking about.

Who was the best player that you ever battled that went to the NBA?

I played against Malik Monk back in AAU but most recently played Malachi Flynn when he was on San Diego State.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Harrison Cleary (AAU)
Jr Ballard (Cal Poly)
Colby Rogers (Cal Poly)
Donovan Fields (Cal Poly)
Nolan Wright (H.S)

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

All-Time:Current:
LebronLebron
JordanKD
KobeHarden
MagicCurry

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

Lebron James

What was the last movie that you saw?

Space Jam 2

Thanks Job for the chat.

                When I mention the name Mike Tobey to Belgium national player Sam Van Rossom, you instantly hear his voice change to pure enjoyment. The American and Belgium guard will be going into their fifth season together with Spanish ACB club Valencia Basket and memories between them are as long as being stuck in traffic on interstate 405 in Los Angeles, California. I reach Sam Van Rossom on a mild August day in Germany while he is enjoying his summer in his homeland Belgium in Oostende. For the third straight season his ACB season ended in the semi-finals and one has to wonder if each summer, it is a bit more difficult to digest not making the final. “It doesn´t really annoy me. We know how tough the competition is and that all want to win. It is never easy to break through to the final. We aren´t frustrated but just try to be realistic and analyse what happened so we can doit  better the next time”, warned Sam Van Rossom.  The hottest topic at the moment besides the Los Angeles Lakers gobbling up Russell Westbrook and Carmelo Anthony and who will be next has been the Summer Olympics and the basketball tournament. He has watched some games, but the time difference has been a pain in the butt. He has been watching games that have been available on Belgium television. He has only had two teammates that currently are at the Olympics and both play with Slovenia with Klemin Prepelic and friend ex NBA player Mike Tobey who received a Slovenian passport in 2021 and instantly became a teammate of one of the worlds current best players Luka Doncic. Sam Van Rossom has watched Doncic and Tobey play together at the Olympics and sees how well they are harmonizing. He has played together with so many great players that he isn´t jealous that Mike Tobey can practice and celebrate success with Luka Doncic. He also knows that soon his teammate will be back in Valencia and he is 100% confident he won´t flinch when he has to play with him again. He also has a very nice sense of humor concerning Mike Tobey. “Mike is a very good pick and roll player and is a good shooter. He has used the space very well that Luka has been giving him. They play very well together. I don´t think Mike will want to play with me anymore when he returns”, laughed Sam Van Rossom.

Mike Tobey who remembers Nigerian national and NBA player Jahlil Okafor being his toughest foe in the NCAA was born on October 10, 2004 and began his basketball career at Blair Academy where he averaged 21,0ppg and grabbed 9,0 rpg as a senior. He then proceeded to play at the well known University of Virginia(NCAA) from 2012-2016 where he played a total of 136 games. In his four seasons there, he never averaged better than 7,2ppg, but was an important role player helping the school win an ACC title and reach the NCAA Elite 8 and Sweet 16. “Winning the ACC tournament was the biggest moment. The Elite 8 was a great run, but I still have a sour taste not reaching the NCAA Final 4”, said Mike Tobey in 2017. One of his best games was by far his 15 points and 20 rebounds explosion in the 68-46 victory against Louisville. He was lucky to be teammates with NBA player Malcolm Brogdon who taught him something about hard work and to fight back after injuries. “Malcolm was an unbelievable hard worker. The first time I met him he had a broken foot. He worked so hard in the time that he was injured and continued so when he was healthy again. I am happy he is where he is today“, stated Mike Tobey in 2017. In order to be on top of his defensive game in Europe and at the 2021 Olympics, he got a good grip on what it meant to defend from his Virginia head coach Tony Bennett. “We played hard defense at Virginia. I didn´t really like to play defense before college. I feel I was able to improve my defense there and I knew how to play team basketball when I left”, remembered Mike Tobey in 2017.

The American who lists his personal NBA Mount Rushmore with guys Jordan, Lebron, Kareem and Larry Bird split his rookie seasons between the D-League team Greensboro Swarm where he averaged 12,0ppg and 9,0rpg and NBA team Charlotte where he played two games. The biggest challenge his rookie season wasn´t necessarily on the court. “The biggest challenge was the travel. Sometimes we had back to back games in different cities. The whole experience is a real grind where every player is trying to make a name night in and night out. It was very competitive. I would take the route again. That path depends on what situation is best for me”, stated Mike Tobey in 2017. He had no hard feelings that he only played 2 NBA games against Toronto and Detroit. He learned early that you have to understand one vital word business. “ I think no matter where you are be it in the NBA, G-League or Europe, it is a business everywhere. When you’re a professional you need to understand that it is a business”, warned Mike Tobey. One day he will be able to tell his grand children that he was teammates with NBA superstar Kemba Walker. The ex UConn great may not be a top 3 NBA point guard in 2021 even if Tobey thought he could get there in 2017. “I´m sure he could. In the short time that I was around him, I could see how much of a hardworker he was. He is very talented and produced a lot for the team. Anything is possible for him“, expressed Mike Tobey. He then finished the season with Valencia Basket playing 5 games. In the 2016-2017 season he played his first full season in the ACB with Iberostar Tenerife CB Canarias (Spain-Liga ACB) playing 35 games ACB averaging 11.1ppg, Reb-3(6.6rpg), FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 58.0%; and played 14 BCL averaging 13.5ppg, 7.0rpg, Blocks-5(1.1bpg), FGP: 65.8%, 3PT-1(66.7%), FT: 65.8%. It was by far his best professional season. He then moved to Valencia Basket in 2018 and has been with the team ever since and will be playing a 5th season with them.

In his first season in the ACB with Tenerife he played against Real Madrid 4 times and lost each game, but played extremely well especialy in the tough two game playoff series where he had 21 points and 9 boards in a 83-73 loss and then had a brilliant 18 points and 16 rebounds in a tough 84-75 loss. Now three years later Mike Tobey and Luka Doncic are teammates with the Slovenian national team after securing the passport in 2021. Slovenia is 4-0 going into the exciting semi-final clash against France today and the nation has had an overall invincible team effort. They have received great support from NBA player Zlatko Cancar, Klemen Prepelic of Valencia and Zoran Dragic of Baskonia, but one can say the two best players for them have been Luka Doncic and Mike Tobey who have formed a lethal one two punch. Doncic as usual is playing like he is from another planet as currently he is averaging a ridiculous 26,3ppg, 10,0rpg and 8,0apg while Mike Tobey averaged 14,0ppg, 7,5rpg and shot a crazy 63% from outside during the Olympic qualifying tournament and currently is averaging 11,5ppg, 12,5rpg and 2,3apg at the Olympic tournament. It is obvious that the big man´s game is hugely benefiting from Doncic´s presence on the floor. “Mike´s game is really profiting from the attention Luka is getting and his dangerous drive. This way Mike can use the alley-oop, his short range game and three. This makes it a lot harder for the opponent to defend him”, warned Sam Van Rossom. The two time Eurocup winner is really looking forward to watching Tobey and Slovenia battle France. “It will be a good game. Both teams are real close to each other. Slovenia has been cruising and dominated most teams except Spain. France on the other hand are playing well. They are deep and play physical. If France find some ways to stop Doncic, then they could have some options to win”, stated Sam Van Rossom. He also doesn´t see team USA having a cake walk over Australia. “I think it will be close. Team USA struggled at the start, but have recovered. At the start of the Olympics I would of said that USA can´t win, but now it will depend on how they feel that day and if shots fall. Australia play well together and play physical. The difference will be small between the team that wins. I don´t have that feeling that you had years ago where USA was invincible and could beat everyone. Kevin Durant said it in an interview that nobody is afraid to play USA”, warned Sam Van Rossom. It will be interesting to see how much the game of Mike Tobey will profit from playing at the Olympics. In 53 Euroleague games, he put up solid 9,0ppg and 4,0rpg which is nice but not great, but in the Euroleague nobody puts up crazy staggering stats, but could Tobey take another step with his game this season in the Eurocup? “I have to disagree with you. I think if you translate his stats over 40 minutes, then they would be very impressive. He has been our back up at the five and I feel he and Bojan Dubljevic compliment each other well. Mike has a name in Europe. I hope that he can keep growing and make new steps in the Eurocup. He is only 26 years old. There is still a lot of time. I feel that he will keep evolving”, stressed Sam Van Rossom.

Sam Van Rossum is a Valencia Basket lifer and going into his ninth season while Mike Tobey also can call Valencia his second home as he is going into his fifth season with them. When the ex University of Virginia(NCAA) center first came to Valencia in March 2017, he and Van Rossom right away had to gel. “We were both hurt and spent a lot of time together in the weight room. He is so easy going. We have always had a very good relationship. He is one of those guys that is liked by everyone. He is a great person”, commented Sam Van Rossom. Tobey is the type of player that will make any point guard anywhere and in any system just smile or lead him to rave on about his play. He just makes the basketball life for Van Rossom so much easier. “I can do so much with him. If it´s throwing up the lob to beat the big on the pick and roll, or get him on the short role or pick and pop. He is such a complete player. He is always a constant threat against the defense. He has helped me read the pick and roll a lot better. We profit from each other”, said Sam van Rossom. The American has proved that he has been a modern big man since years mainly because he has developed a dangerous outside shot. He has improved his three point percentage each season in the ACB as last season he reached the 40% mark and  wasn´t far behind in the Euroleague hitting 39%. The game in the post is eroding more and more as the big man has the complete package. Van Rossom has seen his development in Valencia since day one. “He adapted to Europe very well coming from the D-League. He understood his role really well and I think he made more steps on the defensive end than on the offensive end. Obviously his offense has been very good. It is even better now with his three pointer. He is always able to open up the court and help your team play in a good way. He is always able to bring something when he is on the court and always helps your team”, warned Sam Van Rossom. It is never easy to pick that one greatest moment, but when you remember the 2019 Valencia Eurocup title, then you can be sure that that is way up on the list. “It is always nicest when you win the title or a big game. That is bigger than that one alley-oop”, expressed Sam Van Rossom. When you have played so many games together finding that special best play can´t be difficult. Good for Sam Van Rossom that he remembered a remarkable play between him and Tobey last season to make his choice not as difficult. “I remember playing against FC Barcelona. It was a side pick and role with Mike. It was good timing. All went well”, stated Sam Van Rossom. No matter if Slovenia wins a medal or not, one thing is for sure, the unique and breathtaking plays between Van Rossom and Tobey will continue to dazzle fans in 20-21. Nobody will ever get sick of the lethal alley-oop between Sam Van Rossom and Mike Tobey.