Ishmail Wainright (196-G/F-94, college: Baylor) is a 25 year old 196cm forward from Kansas City, Missouri that is playing his third professional season in France with SIG Strasburg currently having helped the team reach the Final 8 in the Basketball Champions League. Currently in the Pro A he is averaging 11,7ppg, 4,1rpg, 2,4apg and 1,9spg and in the Basketball Champions League is averaging 9,6ppg, 4,1rpg, 2,2apg and 1,3spg.He completed his second professional season and first with Rasta Vechta (Germany-BBL) last season averaging 10,4ppg, 5,8rpg, 2,5apg and 1,8spg in the BBL this season and 10,7ppg, 5,8rpg, 3,8apg and 1,9spg in the BCL. He played his rookie season with the Nuernberg Falcons BC (Germany-ProA) averaging 12,1ppg, 7,3rpg and 2,8apg. He began his basketball career at Montrose Christian School and then played 131 NCAA games at Baylor (NCAA) from 2013-2017 and as a senior played 35 games averaging 5.5ppg, 5.1rpg, 3.2apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 68.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the special magic of Baylor basketball.

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

Basketball is going great. I can’t complain to be honest. Well only about the fans not being able to attend games and not being able to bring family over also is just about it. But all and all, we are winning and having fun doing just that.

Your playing your third professional season and first in France with SIG Strasburg. The EasyCredit BBL is a top league in Europe but so is the France Pro A. With the experiences you have had how would you compare the Pro A to the German BBL? Which league is top from top to bottom with teams, and players.

Both leagues are amazing. I couldn’t really tell you which is better top to bottom because each team is solid in each league. You can lose to anyone. I believe Germany has more EuroLeague teams so some may say Germany but France has more team competing in many International competitions. So it’s tough to say in a way.

SIG Strasburg is playing a top season in the Pro A and fighting to reach the Basketball Champions League Final 8. How good are the chances of the team to win a title this season?

That’s the main goal is to bring titles back to France. And if we keep doing what’s needed to be done and play great basketball it’s highly possible.

SIG Strasburg are like the Buffalo Bills in that they have reached 5 finals since 2013 in the Pro A but never won. Do you feel this sense of urgency with the club to win it all?

hahaha Buffalo Bills. There always is going be a sense or urgency because of this whole season you know. Covid. Teams. Etc. so for sure there a sense of urgency.

Let’s talk about your alma mata Baylor. They won the 2021 NCAA title. How do you feel the day after the win?

SICEM BEARS !!! IM A NATIONAL CHAMPION!!!! THATS HOW I FEEL BABY !!! LEEETTTSSSS GOOOOOOOO !!!!!!!! WE DID IT !!!!!!!

Playing overseas is always a problem when you want to catch NBA and NCAA games. Did your schedule permit you to stay up and watch history being made?

I wasn’t going miss it no matter what !

You reached two NCAA Sweet 16’s with Baylor. The 2017 run was your favorite only because nobody thought that Baylor could accomplish anything that year. If someone had told you in 2017 that Baylor would be crowned NCAA champions in 2021 what would you have thought?

Yes. I knew it was going happen. I told them it was going happen sooner than people thought. I have screenshots of me saying such things. Tweets and all.

Baylor has had 13 NCAA tournament appearances, 6 Elite 8’appearances and 5 Sweet 16’s. They also hadn’t been in a NCAA final game since 73 years. What does this title mean to the school and to you personally?

It was a lot of blood , sweat, and tears. That title game wasn’t just about this year’s team , that was for the past players also. The guys that started it all. Looking back and seeing what Coach Drew did for the University.

Baylor had a simple game plan. Make some shots. If you miss get the rebounds and then make some more shots. Can basketball sometimes be that simple?

Basketball can be very simple. But it’s the mindset to make it that simple in a way. You have to be disciplined !

Baylor made 11 of their first 20 shots including six three’s and led by 19 points at the break. They had a double digit lead for 34 of the 40 minutes. How vital do you believe was the mentality of the Baylor team for being able to play this well against the heavy favorite and unbeaten Gonzaga team?

Culture of JOY. SIMPLE !

How key was it for Baylor players Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua, Flo Thamba and Mark Vital limiting Drew Timme to 12 points?. The star Jalen Suggs had 22 points, but Gonzaga didn’t have scoring support behind him.

I feel like they haven’t played against a team like Baylor the whole year and so coming into the game, they knew they had to do something and really couldn’t.

Gonzaga has made big strides since 2015 making 5 NCAA Elite 8 appearances and two NCAA finals in 2021 and 2017. Could another final loss hurt their overall confidence to win the big one or do you feel like they will be due in 2022? Many are already picking them to win it next year?

I‘m going with Baylor every year until I become a college coach. Hahaha !!

Was the rebounding stat 0f 38-22 rebounds and 16 offensive rebounds one of the biggest keys for the win?

I’m sure rebounding was a must due to our rotation. Mark Vital took care of that part and I’m proud of him.

Davion Mitchell is seen as a #1 Draft pick and Jared Butler as a possible second round pick. How have you followed their careers and how do you seem them doing in the NBA?

-They both played their way into the first round. Davion will be an amazing defender and Jared will be a scorer but also a great distributor.

Where do you see the journey of Macio Teague going? He seemed a bit in the shadow of Butler and Mitchell. Could he make the NBA and do you see his game being suited to becoming a impact player overseas?

Macio is tough ! A scorer and a Hustler. He will do what you need him to do. And he showed that these past two years.

In our interview you stated this about your ex head coach at Baylor Scott Drew. ‘He treated us like professionals since day one. Talked to us like one. Worked us like one. He used to tell us, ‘ You guys want to be professionals someday, you have to walk, talk, eat, work, and take care of your bodies like professionals do!’ How proud are you of your ex coach and how has he continued to develop since your time there?

Hall of Fame coach for sure. I’m extremely proud of him and not just him but the staff around him. Coach Tang, AB, Nu , Patterson, AD, And even the last coaches. They’ve stepped it up another level and will continue to do.

How do you see the future of Baylor (NCAA) basketball. Two guys seem to be heading to the NBA and Macio Teague and Mark Vital are also done as seniors.

Very very bright. We want to be a blue blood like Jared said. We want to have the recognition as one of the best schools in the country which we’ve proved to be just that.

Have you see the new Coming to America 2? The reviews have been mixed. Shouldn’t they just have left it untouched?

Haha yes I’ve seen it and I think it was alright. Maybe should’ve left it alone but it was worth the try. I’m taking the original one.

Thanks Ishmail for the chat.

DJ Woodmore (190-SG-92, college: VWU) is a 29 year old 190cm point guard that is playing his first season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. Last season with Morgenstern BIS Basket Speyer (Germany-ProB) he played 21 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 87.3%. In 2018-2019 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 71.6% in the Regionalliga. In his first two seasons with Speyer he averaged 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1% and 17.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 76.4%. he played at Virginia Wesleyan College (NCAA3): from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and DJ Woodmore team together each week to talk basketball

DJ congrats on the massive 71-70 victory over the EN Baskets Schwelm. How refreshing was it coming back from the disappointing loss against Giessen and winning at home?

Thank you !! Definitely a breathe of fresh air for a short amount of time. I think it’s been a theme that everybody wins at home in these playoffs, so we didn’t want to be the first to change that. But now we have to focus on breaking that when we go to Itzehoe.

Coach Rodriguez had a bizarre starting 5 with Germans Lieser and Mayer and Chad Wellian. What kind of dynamic did this starting five give you?

I thought that 5 was designed to get us off to a strong defensive start. I thought they did a great job of bringing us energy from the jump. And the guys that came in later, were able to sustain it!!

The contest was dead locked at 31-31 at the break. Was this typical playoff basketball? Why couldn’t anytime get away from one another?

Yes, it was a typical playoff game. I thought we could have made a run in the first half, but we couldn’t get going offensively. I thought we played a little too slow and playing to cautious. But we’re able to change it a bit in the 2nd half.

The EPG Baskets picked up their defense. What was key in how you defended in comparison to the Giessen game?

We knew that we had to do a good job with Scott, which I thought we did for 3 quarters. He runs the entire show, and they go as he does. Giessen was a bit more dynamic because they caused a few matchup problems we didn’t like. We liked our match up against Schwelm.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz took the lead in the third quarter, but couldn’t totally get away. You did a good job on Montrael Scott limiting him to 14 points, but couldn’t contain Anell Alexis. What made it so tough to keep him in check?

Alexis started out hot by hitting his first 3 threes. We knew he was capable by we didn’t want to panic because of it. We wanted someone else to beat us besides Scott and we were able to contain almost everyone else. If we cut down on turnovers and offensive rebounds, we probably pull away much quicker.

Chad Wellian hit the winner with 34 seconds as you made the assist. How good was it seeing him make the winner. His playing time has suffered with the depth that the team has.

Great, I knew he’d be ready to step up and knock it down. He’s struggled with adjusting since the addition of the new players but we all know what he’s capable of and him hitting that shot was just a small taste. He’ll be ready for Itzehoe for sure.

How nerve wracking were the last seconds as Schwelm had two chances to win the game. Does this type of ending give added self-confidence on the defensive end?

Not too nerve wrecking. I thought we played it smart, taking a foul because we had one to give, switching the inbounds to have a taller defender contesting the shot of Scott. But we have to find a way to come up with the long rebound. I’ll take it though.

How big was Calvin Oldham tonight? He had 10 points and 8 rebounds and continues to be that glue guy every game.

He’s a game changer. Offensively and Defensively. He takes the assignment. Doesn’t complain and gives us positive energy for 40 minutes. We need him on the court at all times and he never fails to make huge plays when needed to!

You had a 11/5/7 game and shot under 40%. I can imagine after a win like this that is what your most happy about even if the shots weren’t falling like usual.

Not so much. I’m not so concerned with percentages in these playoffs. I’m just here to do what I can to get the win. If it’s scoring one game, then I’ll bring it. Maybe defense another day, or assisting on another. All about the win.

What will be key to winning next game against Itzehoe?

Itzehoe will the be the last game and we have to drive 6+ hours to play them in their home gym. We have to contain Hooper and keep the other guys guessing all night. I think we match up well offensively. But they could cause some problems for us because of their size. It should be great game.

Gonzaga battles Baylor in the NCAA final. Who will take it all this year in March Madness?

I actually don’t want them to have an undefeated season. They’ve been cruising all season long, and I think this Baylor team is a little different than the competition they’ve seen all year. I can imagine them winning it. I’m taking Baylor this year.

Thanks DJ for the chat.

Emmanuel Lecomte (180-PG-95, college: Baylor) is a 25 year old 180cm point guard from Grimbergen Belgium that is playing his third professional season. This season has been a roller coaster as he began with the Fraport Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany-BBL) playing 2 games averaging 11.0ppg, 2.0apg and then moved to moved to Elan Bearnais Pau-Lacq-Orthez (France-Jeep ELITE ProA) playing 2 games averaging 11.0ppg, 2.0apg, and currently is with Prienai CBet (Lithuania-LKL) averaging 15,6ppg, 1,8rpg, 5,4apg and 1,3spg. Last year he split time with Universidad Catolica de Murcia CB (Spain-Liga ACB) playing 18 games averaging 6.1ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 38.5%, 3FGP: 30.6%, FT: 79.4%, and then moved to Herbalife Gran Canaria (Spain-Liga ACB) playing 5 games averaging 5.4ppg, 1.0apg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 80.0%, FT: 90.0%. In his rookie season in 2018-2019 he played with Agua Caliente Clippers of Ontario (NBA G League) playing 48 games averaging 14.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 4.3apg, 2FGP: 50.8%, 3FGP: 40.2%, FT: 86.2%, and then moved to Universidad Catolica de Murcia CB (Spain-Liga ACB) playing 9 games averaging 7.1ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 15.8%, FT: 90.5% He started his basketball career in Belgium with BBC Kangoeroes-Boom (D2) and then played with Belfius Mons-Hainaut (Ethias League). In 2013 he moved to the States and played with Miami (NCAA) for two seasons playing 71 games. He then transferred to Baylor and made his break through as a junior leading the team to the NCAA Sweet 16 playing 33 games averaging 12.2ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.8apg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT: 83.0%. In his senior year he played 32 games averaging 16.4ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.7apg, FGP: 43.9%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 88.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his memories of Baylor and the 2021 title game.

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

I’m in Lithuania at the moment. I have been good. I’m just trying to finish the season strong

Your playing your third professional season. It has been a roller coaster season. You began in Frankfurt, then went to France to Pau Ortez and now are balling in Lithuania with Prienai CBet (Lithuania-LKL) How tough has this season been for you in terms of the team changes and COVID-19?

It has been more about COVID as to why I have been having a roller coaster season. This season hasn’t been easy, but it has made me better as a player. I’m happy that I have found stability in Lithuania.

How did your experience with three teams and all the COVID-19 drama made you stronger as a man?

It has been a long and difficult time for everyone. Not only for basketball players. I needed to adjust in this period and learn to make changes. COVID helped me to become more prepared for what comes next.

Let’s talk about your alma mater Baylor. They won the 2021 NCAA title. How do you feel the day after the win?

I feel great. I’m so happy for the players and the coaching staff. They truly deserve it. Last year was so tough. They had a good year and then it abruptly ended because of COVID. They took advantage this year and kept winning. They proved that they were the best by beating the heavy favorite.

Playing overseas is always a problem when you want to catch NBA and NCAA games. Did your schedule permit you to stay up and watch history being made?

Yes for sure. The game began at 4.30 and was over at 6,30 am. I’m glad that we had today off. I was up all night. I couldn’t miss it.

You reached the NCAA Sweet 16 with Baylor in 2017. You said this about Baylor basketball to me in 2017. ‘The sky is the limit for us this year as it was last year, we are going to prove a lot of people wrong again but it’s a process we still have a lot of work to do but I believe we can accomplish anything with this team, the Final Four is in mind for sure. If someone had told you in 2017 that Baylor would be crowned NCAA champions in 2021 what would you have thought?

I would of said that it was completely possible. I knew what kind of coaching staff we had.

What was special about the 2017 Baylor team that had future NBA player Johnathan Motley and future Euro pro’s Ishmail Wainright and Allerik Freeman?

We had a great team. We were all close and were good friends. It showed on the court. We had experienced guys. Those guys you mentioned had already been there for a few years. I came in and just did what I do. We were #1 in the country at some point. We set a school record winning 15 games in a row. I have to give a lot of credit to Scott Drew. He has a system that works and wins games.

Baylor has had 13 NCAA tournament appearances, 6 Elite 8’appearances and 5 Sweet 16’s. They also hadn’t been in a NCAA final game since 73 years. What does this title mean to the school and to you personally?

It means a lot. Coach Scott Drew came to Baylor when they were at the bottom. He was in a bad position when he took over, but he turned it around. He made Baylor into a winning program. He made his dream become reality. He did the impossible taking Baylor from the bottom to the top. I feel like I’m part of it. We should all feel proud. We all help build the Baylor tradition.

Baylor had a simple game plan. Make some shots. If you miss get the rebounds and then make some more shots. Can basketball sometimes be that simple?

I think that overall Baylor was more prepared than Gonzaga. Baylor was a lot more physical than Gonzaga. They rebounded very well especially on the offensive glass. Baylor plays with three guards, but everyone helped make plays and crashed the boards. In a game like this rebounding is huge. Baylor bullied Gonzaga from the start to the end.

Baylor made 11 of their first 20 shots including six three’s and led by 19 points at the break. They had a double digit lead for 34 of the 40 minutes. How vital do you believe was the mentality of the Baylor team for being able to play this well against the heavy favorite and unbeaten Gonzaga team?

It’s all about the mentality. It is one game and there are only 40 minutes. It is all about who shows up and wants it more. Like I said before Baylor was more prepared and more physical from the start. You could see from the start that there was a difference.

How key was it for Baylor players Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua, Flo Thamba and Mark Vital limiting Drew Timme to 12 points?. The star Jalen Suggs had 22 points, but Gonzaga didn’t have scoring support behind him.

Gonzaga do have support, but Baylor was just too good. Those three guys that you mentioned are probably the three most physical defenders in the NCAA and they also do the little things. Vital is only 6’5, but he also plays the five. He doesn’t score much, but he is a force of nature and gets offensive rebounds. When you have three guys like them always rotating in time it becomes difficult for Drew Timme being able to play his game.

Gonzaga has made big strides since 2015 making 5 NCAA Elite 8 appearances and two NCAA finals in 2021 and 2017. Could another final loss hurt their overall confidence to win the big one or do you feel like they will be due in 2022? Many are already picking them to win it next year?

That doesn’t mean anything. It is way to early to make assumptions like that. They have always had a great program and a lot of credit goes to head coach Mark Few. They have always had a winning program and been successful.

Was the rebounding stat 0f 38-22 rebounds and 16 offensive rebounds one of the biggest keys for the win?

It is March Madness. That is why there are so many upsets. Teams come to play. Both teams are great. But in the end Baylor played harder and wanted it more. It showed on the stats.

Davion Mitchell is seen as a #1 Draft pick and Jared Butler as a possible second round pick. How have you followed their careers and how do you seem them doing in the NBA?

It is hard to say. Both guys will get drafted. They didn’t only have good performances in the final, but throughout the whole tournament. Important for them is that they make plays at both ends of the court. The NBA is looking for guys who can score, guard multiple positions and are good with the ball. Both have the potential to be good.

Where do you see the journey of Macio Teague going? He seemed a bit in the shadow of Butler and Mitchell. Could he make the NBA and do you see his game being suited to becoming an impact player overseas?

His game can translate to anywhere. He can shoot the ball and play defense. That will allow him to be able to play anywhere. He could be a good role player in the NBA or play a role on a team in Europe.

Your ex teammate Ishmail Wainright said this about head coach Scott Drew ‘He treated us like professionals since day one. Talked to us like one. Worked us like one. He used to tell us, ‘ You guys want to be professionals someday, you have to walk, talk, eat, work, and take care of your bodies like professionals do!’ How proud are you of your ex coach and how did he groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

I am very proud of coach Drew. He is a great coach, but an even better man. He did a lot for me. The most important thing he taught me was how to lead a team. In order to be a point guard you need to be vocal and bring energy. That was the most valuable thing that he taught me.

How do you see the future of Baylor (NCAA) basketball. Two guys seem to be heading to the NBA and Macio Teague and Mark Vital are also done as seniors.

I think the future will be good. They still have guys coming back like Adan Flagler and Matthew Mayer. We saw how they could play and now they will take over next year. The most important thing is that there is a system in place that works. They will recruit good players. I’m confident with the coaching staff doing a good job. I’m sure the program will continue to go up.

Have you seen Coming To America 2 yet? The reviews have been mixed. Shouldn’t they just have left the original classic untouched?

I haven’t seen it yet. It depends. If you make a sequel it better be good. I like movies. I will watch it. There are some good sequels and some bad ones.

Thanks Manu for the chat.

TJ DiLeo is a 30 year old 190cm guard that is playing his eighth professional season and eighth in Germany with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He played his first two professional seasons in the Pro A with the Giessen 46ers and then helped the team move to the BBL in 2015. He then moved to the Telekom Baskets Bonn where he is in his fifth season. Currently he has played 170 easyCredit BBL games and 29 Basketball Champions League games and 18 Fiba Europe Cup games. He began his basketball career at Cinnaminson High School and played at Temple (NCAA) from 2008-2013 playing a total of 126 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the tough 91-88 loss against the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim.

Thanks TJ for talking to germanhoops.com. You lost a tough game against Alba Berlin 80-75 and another tough game against Crailsheim 91-88. Even if it may not be a consolation, you must as a team have a certain kind of self-confidence that you can play with the top teams.

Yes for sure. It is all about getting over the hump. We hope to get another signature win soon and win more games down the stretch. It really just comes down to the little things at the end of the game.

The Hakro Merlins Crailsheim came out strong in the first quarter scoring 25 points, but the Telekom Baskets Bonn stepped it up in the second quarter winning 31-15. What adjustments did you make on defense and what was more significant on offense that helped the team score better?

We changed some things on defense with some switches. Also Bell-Haynes was on the bench at that time with a few fouls. On offense we pushed the ball well on transition and got open shots with the kick out. We also moved the ball well and had a good pace.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn had the 47-40 advantage at the break. What did head coach Will Voigt tell the team in the break to concentrate on most in the second half?

He told us to keep the same defensive strategy from the second quarter. He also wanted us to keep moving the ball well and keeping that good pace intact.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn controlled the fourth quarter and had to leads, but in the end couldn’t hold the lead in crunch-time. How key was that Jeremy Jones three pointer for shifting the momentum?

That was really big. He is a really good shooter. We gave up some easy offensive rebounds at the end that led to baskets. We also suffered some defensive mistakes and had some not good possessions on offense.

Just about everything went right for Chris Babb for 36 points, but Bonn only had two guys in double figures while Crailsheim had five guys. Do you feel like another reliable Bonn scorer could have been the difference on this night?

I thought that we moved the ball really well. A lot of times we used the extra pass more than usual. We really could of used Alexander Hamilton tonight. Chris Babb was great. We just kept going to him. I thought that our big men did a good job passing out of the post finding the open guys. We did shoot some bad three pointers.

How key were the 13 Crailsheim offensive rebounds? Was the effort just better by Crailsheim in certain moments on the glass?

I don’t know if we didn’t block out well enough or didn’t get enough of the long rebounds. If the other teams is getting the offensive rebounds down the stretch then it isn’t a good sign for us.

MVP candidate Trae Bell-Haynes is still doing a good job helping his team to wins. But he doesn’t have the explosive stats like in the first three months. Have teams figured him out better or has he changed his game around a bit?

No, I just think that teams are keying in on him more now. He is still a great penetrator that is finding open guys. And when he is open he has the ability to knock down the three. He also is great on transition. Teams are building their defensive game plan more around him. It is pretty respectable when teams are focusing on trying to stop him. He is hard to stop.

It is very tight from 8-13. How determined is the team that the playoffs could still be reality?

Yes we have a chance. We have had games this season where we came from behind and games where we fought until the end. We have to go game by game. We know that we have to win very game to have a chance.

The games don’t get easier with Oldenburg and FC Bayern Munich. Does the team have good self-confidence to beat Oldenburg after playing ell against Berlin and Crailsheim?

We are going into the Oldenburg game with a lot of confidence. We have a lot of trust in our game. We know that we are right there. Oldenburg has a high power offense. We know that we have to be locked in on defense.

I know you see Chris Babb light it up in practice and games, but how special was his 36 points? Was this just extraordinary or just another day at the office for him?

It was definitely a special game for him. We don’t take it for granted for what he does on the court. He does so much on the court. It feels like he will never miss finding that open guy. If he has a shot then he will take it.

How have you seen the development of Killian Binapel this season? How much did he benefit from COVID-19? He only concentrated on the BBL.

He has been great. He does individual work before and after practice. He always plays hard. It isn’t easy for a young player not getting many minutes. He also hasn’t had the opportunity this season to get extra time with Rhondorf. He has played well for us and I’m happy what he has brought to the team. He is a great guy in the locker room.

You had 5/4/7 stats in 30 minutes. Since the 2017 season you have been steady in your scoring stats. Do you expect yourself to be able to be a guy who can average double figures in scoring

I’m not to worried about having to score in double figures. I’m more worried about how successful the team is. If my role was changed to be more of a scorer then I would try to fill my role. Most important for me is to help my team win

You’re a leader and a versatile player that does very much on the court. Now at age 30 what additional things are you trying to give the team to be successful?

I’m trying to lead by example, work hard and communicate on the court. COVID-19 hasn’t been an easy time for anybody. There isn’t really anything to do off the court. Every day is the same so sometimes guys aren’t in good moods. I just try to be positive in practice.

Dino Radja recently said that he couldn’t imagine Russell Westbrook having success with a European team. Do you agree?

At one time he was the most athletic guy in the world. Some NBA guys come overseas and have problems. I don’t think he would. He is a good passer and rebounder. I think he would be successful here. His game can translate to anywhere.

Draymond Greene recently said he is the greatest defender of all-time. Do you agree?

I’m not sure. He still has some years ahead of him to keep his game up. I think there are some guys ahead of him now. But he still has some time to change my mind.

Baylor upset Gonzaga by 16 points to win the 2021 NCAA title. How big can one weigh this upset?

People may see it being an upset because Gonzaga was undefeated. Baylor was one of the two best teams. Baylor have guys that can play. I was a bit surprised by how much they won. But I knew how good they were. I wouldn’t call it a upset.

Did you see Coming to America 2 yet? Should they not have left the classic untouched?

I don’t mind watching remakes. It is hard to make a remake and have it compete with the classic. We will see how the new Space Jam will be.

Thanks TJ for the chat.

Tags : T.J. DILEO, TELEKOM BASKETS BONN, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Isaiah Crawley (201-PF-98, college: Georgia South) is a 22 year old 201cm forward from Ripley, Tennessee that is playing his rookie season with the Tigers Tuebingen (Germany-ProA) currently averaging 16,9ppg, 5,2rpg and 2,3apg. He has scored in double figures in 13 games including 31 points against Ehingen and 29 points against the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. He began his basketball career at Ripley High School. He played at Columbia State Community College (JUCO) from 2016-2018 and then moved to Georgia Southern University (NCAA) averaging 11.6ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 61.7% as a junior and as a senior averaged 13.2ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 61.8%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 67.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Thanks Isaiah for talking to germanhoops.com. How have you experienced the whole COVID-19 crisis in the last year? You played your last NCAA game on March 11th against Georgia State with a massive win and 15/16 explosion. How tough was it ending your season like that never finding a winner in the Sun Belt tournament and was that game in your thoughts a lot this summer as it was your last?

I’ve been just trying to keep my mindset on the bigger picture really. That game definitely had an impact on us all because we were on a roll and really clicking. It is what it is though

How much did the last months change your life and how much of a challenge was it finding the time and places to be able to stay in shape and be able to work on your game?

I really focused on my diet during the pandemic and basketball wise I didn’t have a gym until the last few weeks before I left to get here so I was using the time to run and stay in shape that way.

How do you feel did COVID-19 make you stronger as a man?

Maybe not physically but definitely mentally. Knowing that I didn’t have anywhere to play ball at was tough but I got through it. Everything was just at a stand still for a while which was mind blowing

Congrats on signing with German Pro A club Tigers Tuebingen. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball?

I didn’t know much. I looked up a couple of the players and googled the place and I really liked it.

Do you remember hearing any stories at Georgia Southern about Julius Jenkins who played at your school in the early 2000’s? He was a legend in the German BBL league.

No sir. I’ve never heard of him.

Have you had any friends, ex teammates or ex opponents play in Germany?

No sir. Couple of teammates that played elsewhere

What was your first impression of head coach Danny Jansson? What really impressed you most about him in talks?

He was a cool guy and really understood what he wanted from me and what kind of team he wanted this year and that caught my attention

The Tigers Tuebingen are really impressed with your abilities. What was the deciding factor that influenced you most to joining the Tigers?

Mainly because it was a good offer and I felt like I didn’t need to turn it down

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a very versatile forward that can really do it all. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say Michael Beasley or Blake Griffin

You like many players that go overseas had to began in JUCO before showing your abilities in the NCAA. Did you have a chip on your shoulder early on and how is it resting on your shoulders now after a strong NCAA career?

Juco sculpted me when it came to becoming mentally and physically because juco was a dogfight because everybody was fighting for the same spots. I just want to grind and to the best version of myself

You can shoot, rebound, play the pick and roll, pick and pop and are a defender with a lot of potential. Would it be fair to say that you are a modern day 2020 player?

Yea but I have mindset of an old player. Most players nowadays like playing one on one and I’m not really a fan of it

With so many abilities on the court that you possess, what do you believe is your absolute biggest asset on your court besides your versatility?

I would say being a team player. I believe in everybody having a part and doing their job instead one or two guys

On what things were you working most on this summer on your game so that you will be best prepared for your rookie season overseas?

Mainly my jumper. I can shoot but I know I would have to shoot more because of player differences compared to college

With so many strengths in your game, what do you honestly believe is a hidden strength in your game that still gets overlooked today?

My jumper definitely. A lot of people think I can’t but it’s more of me not shooting. I like driving ball and I have more success when I drive and don’t settle. I can definitely shoot though

You began your career at Columbia State Community College (JUCO). How vital were these 2 years there and how did your game benefit most from it?

Cstate made me into a more versatile player. I began shooting more developed a better handle and came out of the paint unlike I was in high school. I became a 3 4 instead of a 5. Juco basketball is not for the weak.

You then played at Georgia Southern (NCAA) from 2018-2020 reaching the Sun Belt tournament semi-finals and in 2020 the quarterfinals winning but then COVID-19 ending your season. What was your fondest moment at this school on and off the court?

I would say just being with the guys. Those two years were 2 great years and I’ve made friendships that’ll last a lifetime and I’m more than grateful.

You had your best scoring game against N Florida with 31 points the most of a player at your school since 2001 but lost 80-77. Is this one of those games that you will never forget?

I wish had our whole team that game but we only had 7 but that game was crazy. We came back towards the end but they held us off. It’s definitely a memory that’ll last

You beat UL-Monroe twice as a junior and had talented forward Travis Munnings number in each win. What memories do you have battling him and are you surprised that he hasn’t reached high levels in Europe yet?


I didn’t really know but he’s a good player. It wasn’t like a rivalry or anything but I don’t really remember what he did vs us.

How did head coach Mark Byington groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He pushed me to be the best player I could be and the best leader I could be. The way he wanted me to lead that team really made me learn ways to lead which opened my eyes a lot and prepared me.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Trey Dawkins?

Me. Every time lol

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NAIA or anywhere that went to the NBA?

I haven’t played against anyone that’s in the NBA.

Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Ike Smith Montae Glenn Tavon King Tookie Brown Adrian Hicks

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

Kobe Mj Lebron KD

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

I think Jordan’s is the greatest to play from his era and Bron statistically is the greatest of this era. Durant is the best pure player to me

What was the last movie that you saw?

I watched a movie call the old guard

That’s Isaiah for the chat.

Terrell Harris (191-G-93, college: Georgia Coll., agency: Players Group) is a 27 year old 190cm guard from Indiantown, Florida that is playing his fifth professional season and second with the NINERS Chemnitz (Germany-ProA) averaging 11,6ppg, 3,1rpg and 3,9apg. Last season in the Pro A with the Ninners he averaged 14,1ppg, 2,6rpg and 5,0apg. In 2018-2019 he played with the Rostock Seawolves (Germany-ProA) averaging 13.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 66.3%. Three seasons ago he played with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-Ligaen) playing 24 games averaging 17.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.3%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT: 71.6%. In his rookie season he played with the Iserlohn Kangaroos (Germany-ProB) averaging 18,1ppg, 4,3rpg and 1,8apg. He started his basketball career at Mars Hill (NCAA2) in 2011 and then moved to Georgia College in 2012. As a senior he played 29 games averaging 24.6ppg, 6.7rpg, 4.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 76.8%. He concluded his college basketball career winning the All-PeachBelt Player of the Year 2016. Harris spoke to germanhoops.com after the massive 86-84 win in Weissenfels against MBC.

Thanks Terrell for talking to germanhoops.com. Easter has come and gone. What have you learned to appreciate the most about Easter in Germany?

My family isn’t here unfortunately. When I see all the people in Germany with their families makes me appreciate the time when I’m with my family. When I’m back home with my family, I try to spend as much time with them. My favorite time is Christmas and Easter. You definitely feel the family atmosphere in Germany.
Congrats on the massive 85-83 win in Wesisenfels. It was only the fourth away win this season. How good does it feel to have won two road games in a row?

We have struggled on the road this season. I wish we would have won more road games. Now we just have to take as many wins as we can. It is hard to win in the BBL and this season has been tough with COVID and injuries. We still have eight games left and will try to win as many on the road and build on it.

The Niners Chemnitz led 46-35 at the break. The offense has really been clicking the last four games. Is it at a stage now where the team’s self-confidence will be able show consistency until the end?

I think so. We had four guys out with COVID during the national team break in February. These guys are now just now finding their form again. We want to build on our success and build on it in the next weeks.

MBC stormed back in the third quarter to score 28 points to trail only 64-63. What were the most significant break downs that you had on defense?

We didn’t come out of half-time locked in and they capitalized on it. We turned over the ball too many times and they hit shots. Anytime you start hitting two or three shots then shots start to fall like snowfall. They did a good job executing on offense and picking up their presence on defense.

The fourth quarter was very tight and exciting. Half way through MBC led by five points, but the NIners got huge buckets from George King. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?

Just staying consistent was huge. We did a good job keeping our comradery up when it got tough. We kept saying let’s get three more stops. We had guys get buckets when we needed to. George King got big baskets and Isaiah Mike had an all around good game.

A big key was winning the rebound duel 48-30. What was another area of the team play that was crucial for the win?

We began moving the ball well and then got away from it. We then got back to it when we needed to. When we get multiple touches then good things happen. Rebounding was also big . We rebounded really well in the first quarter. It felt like we dominated the boards.

Five Niners Chemnitz players were in double figures. How much fun is it playing offense under head coach Rodrigo Pastore?

It is really enjoyable playing in our system where there is equal opportunity to score the ball. We showed this last year and have been doing it this year. Our system is designed to give you open shots and lanes to drive. We showed this season that when we move the ball well, we can beat the best teams in the league.

MBC would be a totally different team without Michal Michalak as he scored 29 points. What makes this guy so hard to control?

He isn’t fast, but just very fundamentally sound and very smart. He knows how to shoot and how to draw fouls. He knows how to play the game the right way. He was really into it tonight.

The next game is against Rasta Vechta. You won the first home game against them. How confident are you that you will win your third road game in a row and what will be key in getting the win?

We are confident against any team we play. We know that when we execute and get stops that we can beat any team in the league. Moving the ball well and locking in on defense is a good recipe for winning. We have to continue to follow and believe in it.

What kind of an experience has it been being teammates with fellow ex Pro B player Virgil Matthews. Do you get more excited on the bench when he makes a big play than when an established ex NBA player like George King?

We have a special connection. He took me under his wing when I arrived last season. We always break down film together after games. He is so patient and let’s the game come to him. He has a big basketball IQ. He will be a great coach one day. He leads by example and is a great teammate.

You had another solid game with 15 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists. How much were the 4 turnovers in your mind on the drive back and what do you work on most the next day in practice?

Turnovers have been the story of my season. I definitely want to cut down on turnovers. My turnovers haven’t even been really forced, but more me playing too fast. I know that I can cut down on them. I always cut down film with Virgil and try to get better. Important for me is when I can help move the ball and help team play better than we are at our best. I have to remain aggressive and not be afraid to make plays.

You really have picked up your game since February. What has personally been the biggest challenge for you on the court coming from the Pro B?
Last season I was the leading scorer and also led the team in assists. This season is a lot different, because I’m playing with very good players. It is the first time in my life that I’m playing with guys like ex NBA players George King and Marcus Thornton. It has definitely been an adjustment, but it has made me a better player. I’m more a facilitator, but have shown that I can erupt at times as a scorer. I know when to pick my spots and when to get my teammates involved.

Dino Radja recently said that he couldn’t imagine Russell Westbrook having success with a European team. Do you agree?

Yes I saw that comment. Russ is very special. He can get triple doubles at ease in the NBA. I know that he could adjust to anywhere. It would be hard, but we would be ok.

Draymond Greene recently said he is the greatest defender of all-time. Do you agree?

There have been so many great defenders like Kobe, Scottie Pippen, Gary Payton or Dennis Rodman. I like his confidence though. I would pick all these players over Draymond Greene.

The 2021 NCAA Final is set. Gonzaga will battle. Who will win it all?

It’s about time Gonzaga wins. I have Gonzaga by 6.

Did you see Coming to America 2 yet? Should they not have left the classic untouched?

I can see why people would say that. It had a lot of the stars from the original in it, but it was different. I liked it and would recommend it.

Thanks Terrell for the chat.

The Fraport Skyliners woes continue as their path to the easyCredit BBL playoffs get more distant and distant with every new loss. They began the Easter weekend with a poor 89-76 loss against New league club Niners Chemnitz where their inconsistency continued to shine. Their Easter Sunday task didn´t get any easier as they faced off against the Crailsheim Merlins. The Club already showed their talent last season as they were on course of reaching the BBL playoffs until COVID-19 wiped out their season. They had no sophomore blues this season as they recovered after losing their first two games, but then racked up a very impressive 15-2 record beating FC Bayern Munich. Their game has stumbled in the last month as they have lost four of their last five games. Crailsheim won the first meeting over Frankfurt 76-64 as ex Skyliner Trae Bell-Haynes led his team to the win with 21 points. The 18-7 guests met the 10-15 Fraport Skyliners who were three games away from the last playoffs spot, but were unable to sweep the season series as the Mobley and Gudmundsson show dismantled them 92-84. The Hakro Merlins Crailsheim controlled the first half, but in the second half the Fraport Skyliners upped their pressure on defense and started to nail three pointers and the guests were unable to come to terms to Frankfurt´s physicality. “Both teams started off well and Crailsheim was more physical, but we became more physical in the second half and were more aggressive on the defensive end. It also helped that we began to hit our three pointers more as well”, commented Fraport Skyliner guard Bruno Vrcic. Crailsheim continue to struggle in the last month as teams have figured them out and their up and down game continues. “Frankfurt had a lot more energy than against Chemnitz. Key today was to win the possession game and we couldn´t do that. We had a chance to extend lead at the end of the second quarter, but couldn´t. We also cut down their lead at the end to two points, but then Mobley and Gudmundsson showed their qualities. It was also disappointing that we weren´t physical enough rebounding”, commented Hakro Merlins Crailsheim head coach Tuomas Iisalo.

                In the first quarter both teams had a run as the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim led 18-10, but then allowed Frankfurt to come back and trail only 22-21 after 10 minutes. Crailsheim stormed out on a rapid 7-3 lead as ex FC Bayern Munich center Bogdan Radosavljevic was aggressive and scored his team´s first 7 points with four free throws and a trey. Frankfurt quickly tied the game at 7-7 as they were more active on the offensive glass as ex Rasta Vechta center Michael Kessens and ex wiha Panther Rasheed Moore made offensive rebounds and put backs. Crailsheim didn´t leave it at a tie long as they sped out on a 13-3 run to lead 20-10. They got a lot of support from many players as they surprisingly didn´t get many outside looks except for Belgium guard Elias Lasisi who hit a trey. The rest of the buckets were free throws and points near the basket. Canadian national player Trae Bell-Haynes made a steal and two handed stuff on transition, German forward Fabian Bleck made  a put back, ex Gonzaga(NCAA) guard Jeremy Jones retrieved his own miss and made a put back and ex West Virginia(NCAA) guard and ex FC Bayern Munich forward Dejan Kovacevic hit free throws. Frankfurt had their up and down phase on offense and on the defensive end were too lax on the boards and had bad communication on defense. But Frankfurt got out of their funk closing out the first half with a 12-2 run to trail only 22-21 after one quarter. In the run, Frankfurt got a three pointer from ex St Bonaventure(NCAA) guard Matt Mobley, a pretty floater from ex Davidson(NCAA) guard Jon Axel Gudmundsson and 5 points from Bruno Vrcic who has given the team  a lot of key energy this season from the bench. Gudmundsson had been relieved of his point guard duties against Chemnitz where he had problems and in this game was allowed to concentrate on his shooting. “They had too many second chances and easy baskets, but we did a good job not losing focus and coming back”, stated ex FC Bayern Munich guard Bruno Vrcic.  

                In the second quarter the Fraport Skyliners were up and down again and after having a short lead, allowed Crailsheim to retake the lead and control of the game. Bruno Vrcic gave Frankfurt the lead back with a clutch trey 24-23. Crailsheim then got some baskets from Radosavljevic  and Bleck, but Frankfurt stayed with them as 2017 JBBL finalist Len Schoorman dropped a trey to dead lock the game at 27-27. Crailsheim then could break away a bit going on a 9-1 run to lead 36-28 as Frankfurt was covering the three point line well so they had to execute more inside. The Crailsheim guards provided instant offense as Bell-Haynes, ex Wurzburg German Maurice Stuckey and ex  North Carolina Central University (NCAA) guard Nimrod Hilliard all scored in the paint. Crailsheim got easy baskets and Bell-Haynes was able to play his offensive game better as Frankfurt had limited him better in the first quarter. The Fraport Skyliners didn´t panic, but allowed Matt Mobley to play his lethal offense as he scored 7 unanswered points in a few minutes to get Frankfurt back to 38-36. In this phase he made such a crazy trey as he was in the corner and had a hand in his face, but made the shoot look easier than a Steph Curry shot. “He makes unbelievable shots. Sometimes they seem physically impossible. His play gives us all an extra push”, stressed Bruno Vrcic. Crailsheim kept the 43-36 lead thanks to a Stuckey three and Hillard free throws, but got sloppy at the end. Crailsheim fouled Jon Axel Gudmundsson behind the three point line with 0,7 left on the clock and the Iceland native punished them with three free throws as they trailed only 44-42 at the break. “We came together better as a team. We moved the ball better and got open looks. We came back and didn´t allow Crailsheim to get a big lead. Gudmundsson was key with his last second free throws”, stated Bruno Vrcic.

            In the third quarter the Fraport Skyliners stepped up their defensive pressure and gave the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim a hard battle as there were 5 lead changes, but they kept the 63-59 lead after 30 minutes. Frankfurt was able to stop Crailsheim on their first five possessions, but couldn´t lead by more than 48-45. Frankfurt´s pressure and communication was good and they clogged the lane well. Kessens and Mobley baskets helped Frankfurt regain the lead. Frankfurt continued to defend well and Vrcic came up big with another big three pointer for the 51-46 advantage. Vrcic had a huge game scoring 16 points and shooting 71% from the field. “For me it was important to have a good game again. My last games weren´t that good in terms of my shooting. Coach keeps telling me not to hesitate and just shoot”, said Bruno Vrcic. Crailsheim is always able to produce instant offense and rallied with a 8-2 run to get the lead back with 54-53.They had had problems getting open looks from outside, but in this run got vital three´s from Jones and Hilliard and Stuckey made a nice spin move and lay in. The leads then changed twice as Gudmundsson and Jones exchanged trey´s as Crailsheim led 57-56. Frankfurt then closed out the third quarter strong with a 6-3 run to lead 63-59. In the run, Frankfurt got free throws from Vrcic and a lay in and free throws from Gudmundsson. “Coach Gleim had told us at half time to continue to play like we did at the end of the second quarter while upping our aggressiveness”, said Bruno Vrcic. “We were unable to have control of the game. We were sloppy and they were more prepared and aggressive”, expressed Trae Bell-Haynes.

            In the fourth quarter the Mobley and Gudmundsson show took over as they led the Fraport Skyliners to their first win against a top 8 team this season. A rapid 5-0 run by Frankfurt set the tone as Kessens made free throws and Mobley connected on a three for the 68-59 Frankfurt advantage. Crailsheim received some instant offense from Bell-Haynes and Radosavjlevic who hit three´s, but so did Frankfurt who countered with Gudmundsson and Quantez Robertson trey´s and then 74-65 advantage. Frankfurt continued to execute very well on offense and were more relaxed in their sets. Gudmundsson continued to play a strong offensive game finding Kamari Murphy for the perfect alley-oop dunk feed and then nailed a trey for the 79-67 advantage. The contest didn´t seem like Frankfurt could lose their momentum, but then as if lightening had struck in the Fraport arena, the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim showed what they are capable of as they unleashed three consecutive three´s as Jones scored twice and Bell-Haynes once to suddenly trail only 76-74. But Frankfurt proved that they could play Crailsheim´s run game and struck back with a lethal 8-0 run to lead 87-77. In the run they got a Vrcic lay in, and three´s from Mobley and Gudmundsson.  Crailsheim still had some energy in their gas tank as Lasisi hit a trey and Bell Haynes a lay in to cut Frankfurt´s lead to 87-82. But Mobley then slammed the door shut on the Merlins with another three pointer and iced the win with free throws. “Our biggest strength today was that everybody was on the same page on offense and defense”, added Bruno Vrcic. “Frankfurt found a way to make plays and tough shots. We have to dig deeper to make plays”, warned Trae Bell_Haynes. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Matt Mobley with 26 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists while Jon Axel Gudmundsson had 22 points and 5 assists. The Hakro Merlins Crailsheim were led by Trae Bell-Haynes with 26 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals and Jeremy Jones added 16 points and Bogdan Radosavljevic had 15 points. The Fraport Skyliners shot 45% from the field and 47% form outside and had 37 rebounds and 18 turnovers while the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim shot 42% form the field and 41% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 18 turnovers.   

Donte Nicholas (196-G/F-87, college: FPU) is a 34 year old 195cm forward from Washington Dc that is playing with the Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos 2nd team (Germany-ProB) averaging 18,1ppg, 7,5rpg, 5,6apg and 1,9spg. Last season he played with the Rostock Seawolves (Germany-ProA) playing 27 games averaging 10.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 73.8%. In 2018-2019 he played with the Plymouth University Raiders (United Kingdom-BBL) playing 36 games: Score-5 (18.2ppg), Reb-2 (10.2rpg), Assists-3 (7.2apg), Steals-1 (2.4spg), FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 81.5%. In 2017-2018 he played with the Iserlohn Kangaroos (Germany-ProB). He belonged to the top players in the league averaging 17,6ppg, 8,0rpg, 4,1apg and 3,3spg while shooting 41,8% from outside. He has gained experience down under playing with the Albury Wodonga Bandits (Australia-SEABL) and with the Rockville Victors (APBL) as a rookie in the States. Last season he played with the Plymouth University Raiders (United Kingdom-BBL) playing 33 games averaging 15.3ppg, 6.7rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-5 (2.1spg), FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 75.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the 92-79 win over the EPG Baskets Koblenz.

Donte thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the huge 92-79 playoff win over the EPG Baskets Koblenz. How vital was it having had played Koblenz recently in the last regular season game?

Thanks, appreciate you reaching out. I think it was pretty vital because we knew what to expect and we could make changes facing them again in the playoffs.

The first half was a real back and forth battle with many lead changes. Giessen had the 43-38 advantage at the break. Was this close game what playoff basketball is all about?
Our mindset coming into any game, is controlling the tempo of the game; now that we’re in the playoffs the mindset stays the same.

Giessen led 66-61 after 30 minutes. How vital was it staying calm after Koblenz showed their offensive arsenal hitting you with a 10-0 run out of the gate?

We knew they had a lot of firepower, so we just knew we had to weather the storm and stick to the gameplay and we would be fine down the stretch and that’s what happened.

Giessen sealed the win in the fourth quarter with a 12-0 run. Instrumental were Germans Tim Uhlemann and Tim Koeepple. How much has their BBL experience helped give the Pro B team a lift this season?

Just from what I’ve seen, its a tremendous boost to their confidence when making plays that may not be there if they didn’t have that experience to fall back on.

Giessen shot the ball very well and took care of the ball well. What other strength of Giessen was vital for getting the win?

Like I mentioned earlier our biggest focus is trying to control the pace of the game. We believe if you do this, then it makes everything else a little easier. So now we just look better on the floor as a whole, easier shots, fast breaks, getting easy post touches, etc.

How much easier is it to play defense when only 6 guys score? Is the depth on paper that Koblenz have a bit overrated? Butler and Canty are always good for 20 plus points, but it just seems that the depth was lacking on this day for Koblenz.

I wouldn’t say its necessarily easier, but they are a deep team we just had to make some adjustments which benefited us in the end and not them so much. I wouldn’t say their depth was lacking, I would say we just played a good game defensively.

Johannes Lischka scored an untypical 11 points. In what other area’s is a Lischka always brutally important when he isn’t scoring 30 points?

Everything Jo does for us is important, this just shows that even when he isn’t rolling on offense (which is rare) he still is a major factor. Defensively, he was big for us rebounding, guarding their best player, even had a few monster blocks.

You next face Itzehoe and have a long road trip up north. How exciting is it in general to play a team that you didn’t see before during the season? They lost to Schwelm. What will be key in getting the win?
For me personally, I don’t care if it’s a new team or old team we play I just like to compete. I’m going to keep saying it because that’s how important it is, but if we control the pace of the game we can put ourselves in position to beat any team in this league.

How excited are to be battling top Pro B player Chris Hooper? Slowing him down should be part of the Giessen game plan.

We know he’s a major part of their offensive game plan, so of course he’s one of our main focuses coming in defensively, but if we do what we need to do we don’t really need to worry about any other player.

You had a fantastic game of 21/10/10 stats. When you play 39 minutes does a guy of your calibur almost expect to have the chance of making a triple double?
I wouldn’t say I expect to have triple doubles because a lot of things have to go right for this to happen. But you’ve been following my career a little, you know even though I may not actually get there every game, I’m in the neighborhood a lot.

You had a triple double against Bernau a few years ago and had 2 in the UK. Your putting up great stats this season. Are you getting better with age?

I look at it as more of being consistent every year, every year regardless of age you know what you’re going to get from me.

You watch a lot of the BBL Giessen games in the gym. What do you look for most to soak up from these guys?
You can always improve in some aspect of your game, so when I watch I pay attention to a lot of situational things. What players do in this situation or that situation, maybe it’s something I want to add to my game at some point.

European basketball legend Dino Radja stated that he couldn’t imagine Russell Westbrook being able to lead a European team to success. Do you agree?

Russ is my guy but I also understand he’s an acquired taste, some players could deal with that kind’ve player some can’t. Russ is also one of the fiercest competitors in the game so that alone will always give any team he’s on a chance to win.

Draymond Greene named himself the greatest defender of all-time. Do you agree?

I personally don’t agree, but I can understand why he said it. You should always believe you’re the best at what you do, if you don’t think that or aren’t working towards that then why are you doing it in the first place.

The 2021 NCAA Final 4 is set. Gonzaga-UCLA and Baylor-Houston. Who will reach the final and win it all? Is there any stopping Gonzaga?

Haven’t been following March Madness too much this year, but I know a lot of crazy things have happened already so it’ll probably be some upsets. I’ll take Gonzaga vs. Houston in the final, Houston with the upset by 2.

Have you seen the Coming To America sequel? The reviews have been mixed. Shouldn’t they just have left the original alone?

I watched it as soon as it dropped. They definitely should’ve just left it alone.

Thanks Donte for the chat.

Derek Pardon (203-C-96, college: Northwestern) is a 24 year old 203cm center from Cleveland, Ohio that is playing his second professional season and first in Germany with easyCredit BBL team medi Bayreuth. Last season he played his rookie season with Grissin Bon Reggio Emilia (Italy-Serie A) averaging 6.1ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 54.3%, FT: 74.4%. he played his NCAA career at Northwestern (NCAA) playing 112 games. In his senior year he played 32 games averaging 14.0ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 60.7%, 3PT: 21.4%, FT: 68.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the massive 95-79 victory over Rasta Vechta.

Dererk congrats on the massive 95-79 win over Rasta Vechta. How big is the belief that the easyCredit BBL playoffs can still become reality?

I think that it’s a possibility. I think that in order to reach the playoffs, we have to take our time and take it game by game

March was a very good month for medi Bayreuth. Despite losing to Ludwigsburg 97-92, you played them very tough. Do you feel like the club brought some of that energy from that game into the Vechta game?

Most definitely. We played a hard tough game against Ludwigsburg and just came up a bit short. We knew that we had to bounce back. We brought that energy from the Ludwigsburg game into the Vechta game.

Medi Bayreuth had a real hot first half scoring 58 points. What did you like most of how the team was able to execute in the first 20 minutes.

We moved the ball and ran our sets well. We also did a good job not letting the Vechta pressure get to us. We just took our time and played our game.

It was a high scoring affair in the first quarter as you allowed 24 points, but only 11 points in the second quarter. What adjustments did the team make on the defensive end?

We realized that they had gotten way too many open shots in the first quarter. We knew that we had to stop that. We tried a few different defensive switches and disrupted their pick and pop game with their big man.

Having the big 58-35 lead at the break helped. Medi Bayreuth cooled down on offense in the second half. How vital was it being able to close out the game strong in the second half and not losing focus?

We did cool down in the second half offensively so we had to rely on our defense. We did a good job getting stops and made sure that they didn’t go on a big run.

A big strength on the night was the rebounding and you shot very well as a team. What other qualities was key for the team pulling out the win?

Those were our two goals for the game. We did a good job rebounding and limiting them to one shot. We let our defense create our offense which also led to many fast break points

You and Andreas Seiferth combined for 32/15. Nobody talks about it, but you guys are a very potent duo. Do you feel you two guys are a bit off the radar? This can be a plus the closer you get to the playoffs.

Yes I think so. We have a lot of talent on the team. Guys like Bartley, Walker and Jones can score. Andreas and I hold down the fort and are the anchors at both ends of the court. We just try to bring what the team needs most that night if it means scoring more or making an impact on the defensive end.

Medi Bayreuth was 4-1 in March and keep winning. What changed in the teams game after the four game losing streak in February?

We had injury problems then and Basti Dorth was out. We also needed some time to integrate Lazeric Jones. This has been the first time where we really have had a full roster. We have found our rhythm now. Now I feel like we are clicking on all cylinders. We hope to make a big push up to May

You had a strong game netting 20 points and getting 9 rebounds. How motivated were you tonight after getting only 2 points against Ludwigsburg?

I was very motivated. Anytime you have a down game, you always want to come back the next night and play better. At the end of the day I always want to give my best. If that means scoring 20 points or only 2 points. If I know that I gave my best then I’m happy.

You have always been a great shot blocker. In the BBL your averaging 1,2bpg. What has been the most challenging thing about mastering the paint area?

The biggest thing has been timing. In Europe there are very crafty veterans that know how to play the angles and the refs. I think that I have learned when to go for the ball and when to keep my hands up.

How confident are you that you will have a strong end to the regular season with consistent play?

I feel like I’m playing better every game. I think that I will always find a way to score. My biggest priority is giving energy and defense. If I can turn that into offense then great.

Dino Radja recently said that he couldn’t imagine Russell Westbrook having success with a European team. Do you agree?

I don’t know him personally. But all players that I have spoken with have said he was one of the beat teammates that they ever had. I don’t think that it’s about public perception, but what he brings to the team. If the team thinks that he is a great leader then I feel he can do that for any team.

Draymond Greene recently said he is the greatest defender of all-time. Do you agree?

I wouldn’t agree. He is entitled to his opinion. He is a great defender. He was crucial in those warrior titles. There are too many great defenders that have played the game. But he is definitely one of them.

The 2021 NCAA Final 4 is set. Gonzaga will battle UCLA and Baylor will play Houston. Who will reach the final and win it all?
Gonzaga is really good and have great talent. I think they will play Baylor and win it all. Baylor has been good the last two years. I thought that they would make a deep run last year.

Did you see Coming to America 2 yet? Should they not have left the classic untouched?

. I think that not every classic needs a sequel. It is all about timing. They should of left it alone.

Thanks Derek for the chat.

There are so many players that are balling overseas that will return home after a long career and have no chips to show for. Winning a title isn´t a simple endeavor at any level so when one does win, one should never take it for granted. Some guys have the fortune to win titles quickly and one of those guys has been Josh Hagins. After playing briefly in Bosnia and in the G-League in his first two professional seasons, he came back overseas in 2018 and played with Keravnos Strovolou (Cyprus-Division A) winning three titles in his two year span. It is no secret that a big key for being able to win titles has to do with the type of teammates that one has. That was never more evident with the type of supporting cast that Hagins had including talented veterans like Amaad Rorie, Keaton Grant and Willie Kemp. Having been able to have the right kind of veterans was instrumental in his development as a player in Cyprus. “You can get veterans that are at end of career and don´t care or get vets that do it the right way. I was lucky to have been teammates with vets that cared. There were guys there that were past their peak, but were still doing it the right way. I was really thankful for the situation that I could soak up so much from the, Those two years in Cyprus helped me get to where I am today”, stressed Josh Hagins.  But the list doesn´t end there as he also had another guy with big man With Anthony King who learned his trade at Miami(NCAA) and at age 36 is still playing today. When he played in Germany, he came over as a quiet guy, but he has another side where any player can benefit from him. “He is quiet if you don´t know him. He didn´t always say so much, but when he did he did at the right time. I remember whenever I was frustrated with something, he would pull me to the side and say that it is part of the grind. His experience helped me  a lot and he helped me get hunger for the game. For him to still be playing at his age and still have the energy to help the younger guys is something where you can´t ask for more”, stressed Josh Hagins. Hagins is a player that still has many more years in front of him that wants to excel in every environment that he is confronted with.

            Josh Hagins was born on March 17^th, 1994 in Washington DC.He began his basketball career at  Airline High School in Louisiana helping the school to 3 district titles and was an All-State selection during his time there. He led the Vikings to a 24-9 record being a two time distract champion. He then enrolled at University of Arkansas at Little Rock (NCAA) where he played a total of 124 NCAA games from 2012-2016. IN his freshman season he played 31 games averaging  8.1ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 77.0%. He scored in double figures in 13 games and had LA Lafayette numbers twice scoring 14 points a piece. He started 12 games, was third in scoring and first in assists. In his sophomore season he played 28 games averaging  12.1ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 43.0%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 79.7%. He led the team in assists again, was second in scoring and third in rebounds. He also was a All-Sun Belt 3rd Team selection.  In his junior season he played 31 games averaging 12.0ppg, 3.9rpg, 3.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 82.4%. He led the team in scoring and assists and scored in double figures in 20 games including 28 points against Alabama State and had 23 points against S Alabama. In his senior year he played 34 games averaging  13.3ppg, 4.2rpg, 4.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 84.0%. Once again he led the club in points and assists and also was Sun Belt Regular Season Champion, Sun Belt Tournament Winner, All-Sun Belt 1st Team, Sun Belt All-Tournament Team -16 and NABC All-District 24 1st Team.he scored in double figures in 25 games. On paper he put up solid stats including averaging double figures in scoring in his last three years, but the whole basketball experience was a huge challenge at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. “I didn´t need validation from others to be Josh Hagins. I took a lot of criticism, because I didn´t do things a certain way. At the end of the day I was able to be myself. I learned that having self-confidence was key for success. Great coaches help you win, but it´s the players that have to make the plays in the clutch. In my first three years, I didn´t understand that I had to do something different to help the team win. I learned that there were times where I had to do things that I necessarily wouldn´t have agreed with, but it was necessary to do for the team to be successful”, remembered Josh Hagins.

            His most memorable experience at Little Rock was helping beat Purdue at the big dance in 2016 with a sizzling 31 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 5 steals in the 85-83 double OT win. Even today he can´t refrain from watching his heroics as he tied the game to send it into overtime. “I typically watch that game two to three times a year I like to sit back and enjoy that moment. It was huge for our school winning that game”, said Josh Hagins. In that game he also set a record as he is only the third player to score 30 plus points in the NCAA tournament against Purdue as in incredible company with NBA legends Isiah Thomas and Kareen Abdul Jabbar. “It is very humbling to be mentioned with guys like that. It is a specific stat and you don´t really know how many teams have played Purdue, but I appreciate being mentioned in the same sentence with those guys”, expressed Josh Hagins. It wasn´t always easy for him to do exactly what he wanted to on the court, but he still was able to profit from the coaching staff. Head coach Steve Shields and assistant coach Joe Klein who had a long NBA career were instrumental in his development. “Coach Shields help me be confident. We didn´t always see eye to eye, but at the end of the day, I was willing to take a chance and didn´t play it safe. I had to take risks while staying confident. You always profit when a guy like Joe Kleine played with Michael Jordan. I will always remember his energy. Every time he said something, it always hit home. He helped me with little things like how to feed the big man in the post, pocket passes and hand offs”, stated Josh Hagins.

            The American who remembers battling his Little Rock teammate Marcus Johnson´s heart and fierce competitiveness on a consistent basis in practice had his first brush of being a professional in the summer of 2016 where he had numerous NBA Draft Workouts with the Sacramento Kings, Utah Jazz, Houston Rockets, and Boston Celtics.He then played NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas (Sacramento Kings) playing 4 games averaging  3.0ppg, 2.0rpg. Getting that early experience with NBA clubs was priceless as well as the advice he got from ex Los Angeles Laker Vlade Divac. “I did well during the Kings work out. He told me that getting to the NBA has a lot to do with timing and luck. He also said that no matter what happens, there can be many different type of scenario´s where a player can reach the NBA. He said just keep grinding and enjoy the process”, added Josh Hagins. The American began his professional career overseas with KK Bosna-Royal Sarajevo (Bosnia-Division I) playing 9 games averaging 11.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.7apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 45.0%, 3FGP: 25.7%, FT: 77.8%. Coming overseas isn´t always easy for an American especially when you had hardly ever seen snow. “I remember my first day in Bosnia. I had just arrived and was walking to the gym with my coach. I had maybe seen snow 2-3 times in my then 22 years. In Bosnia it was snowing and there was something like 5-6 inches on the ground. I had a light jacket on and wasn´t prepared for snow. Then when I got to the gym, there were two courts inside with something like seven sports teams using the courts. There was something like 80 people in the gym and everybody was staring at me. Then I remember going back to the apartment and it took me 10 minutes to open the door. That was my wake up call to being overseas for the first time”, stressed Josh Hagins. He had some good games in Bosnia including hitting Kakanj for 22 points and scored 16 points against Siroki Primorka. But his first stop as a rookie was short as he returned back to the States around Christmas and then finished the season in the G-League with Maine playing 21 games averaging 4,4ppg, 2,5rpg and 2,5apg. Coming to a new team during mid season is never an easy task. “Maine was a humbling experience. It was the first time in my life where I didn´t play so much and it was frustrating. It was my first time in the G-League and I had no idea how it worked. It is tough to come in and expect to paly 25 minutes right away. The whole experience just taught me to always be ready and to understand that there are  a lot of players in the world. I just knew that my time would come”, remembered Josh Hagins. He had some fine games in his first G-League tour of duty hitting Delaware for 18 points, 7 boards and 7 dimes and had 17 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists against Westchester.

In his second professional season, the American who lists NBA player Elfrid Payton of the New York Knicks as his most difficult opponent in the NCAA who was an unbelievable driver to the rim, but could also defend  remained home and played with the  Reno Bighorns (NBA G League) playing 41 games averaging 8.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 3.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 88.1%. His minutes increased only from 14 to 19, but he was very efficient with the amount of time that he got. Of course every guy that balls in the G-League has that NBA dream and it isn´t any different for the American. Having that great team feeling isn´t so prevalent in the G-League, but Hagins had real joy playing with reno. “This was one of my favorite teams. For many guys in the G-League, team success isn´t on the forefront. Many guys just want to score 15-20 points. I was on a team where every guy wanted to win”, stated Josh Hagins. You have to wonder what his stats would have looked like had he played something like 32-33 minutes a game? Would an NBA call up been more realistic? “There is a lot of NBA talent in the G-League, but there only so many spots. You can only control what you can control. Who knows if I would have had a better shot at the NBA if I had averaged 33 minutes. I want to reach the NBA, but I can´t wonder about it. I enjoy the game, but have to remain in the now. I want to be successful with Bonn and get them to the playoffs”, warned Josh Hagins. He had some solid games scoring 20 points against Iowa and had 18 points a piece against N Arizona and Santa Cruz. He was lucky that he could call reno his home, because often guys will live in many places during one season. “There is so much player movement. I saw some guys play in one place one week and then were somewhere else the next week. Some guys played for 3-4 teams in the season. It´s all about finding the right solution and it´s not about being loyal”, warned Josh Hagins. Another aspect that made his one season stay with Reno so memorable was being able to be teammates with ex UConn great and 2004 NCAA champion and ex NBA player Marcus Williams. “He is one of my favorite teammates. He wasn´t just a great player, but was just a funny dude. I tried to soak up as much as possible each day. In practice I would pick him up full court and just see what he would do in pressure situations. He always answered my questions. He didn´t say too much, but when he did, it always held weight”, said Josh Hagins.

He played his third and fourth professional seasons in Cyprus winning three titles with Keravnos Strovolou (Cyprus-Division A). In his first season he played 30 games averaging 12.7ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-3(5.2apg), Steals-5(1.5spg), FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT:79,9 and in his second season played 21 games averaging  14.0ppg, 5.8rpg, Assists-1(5.6apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT-2(50.0%), FT-7(90.5%). He also played 8 Fiba Europe Cup games and 4 Basketball Champions League games displaying his consistency filling up the stat sheet like no other. He played a total of 51 Cyprus- Division A games and scored in double figures in 37 games. His best games included 28 points against Apoel, 25 points against Etha and 22 points against AEK Larnaca. Not only does the American remember Anthony King with a lot of fondness, but also ex  Wichita State University (NCAA)standout Darral Willis who is balling in France this season with Monacco. Hagins already saw the potential of Willis two seasons ago. “He began the game very late. I could see his rapid growth already in his rookie year. He has a motor that is hard to match. As soon as he continues picking up teams concepts with his mix of his motor, rebounding and finishing, I think he could be an NBA or Euroleague player”, warned Josh Hagins.

Now let´s fast forward to 2021. The American who last watched the movie Grown Ups began his fifth professional season with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. The club has been struggling and it has been a totally new experience for him coming from his winning ways in Cyprus. “It definitely has been an adjustment. I understand what it takes to win at the next level. It is important to be focused on every possession”, warned Josh Hagins. The club has been up and down starting the season with a five game losing streak, then winning three of four and then having another losing streak. What really has been annoying is their inability to finish games. They have lost five games by six or less points and has affected the team mentality. “It has been very frustrating. We have had games where we had the lead at the end, but that’s part of the process. We definitely have a better team then what our record shows. It´s all about finding that light that will light the fire. We will find it. With every new loss, we tend to think too much about it instead of just playing. We can´t be so hesitant at the end, but be more free”, stressed Josh Hagins. In the meantime the Telekom Baskets Bonn removed head coach Igor Jovovic and brought back American Will Voigt who had already been on board last season. “We have been doing some things different now. Our spacing is different and we have better communication. Coach Voigt has stressed that now with no fans in the arena´s. it´s all about how loud you can be. The louder teams win. We have brought the communication level up and that has translated over on to the court”, warned Josh Hagins. Every season the American is enriched with new teammates and this season has been positively affected by ex Boston Celtic Chris Babb and Telekom Baskets Bon lifer TJ DiLeo. “The way Chris carries himself has impressed me. He is a real professional and great leader. He has been places where I want to get to. I try to imitate him and add my flavor. I love TJ´s effort. He is one of those guys that knows exactly what he can control. He has worked harder than most guys to get to where he is today. He is always so positive and no matter what is happening always keeps the team together. He doesn´t let us give up”, warned Josh Hagins.

TheAmerican who list his personal NBA Mount Rushmore with guys like Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Magic Johnson likes to compare his game to NBA player Nate Robinson. He plays with a lot of energy and is animated like Robinson is. When Hagins is playing well, he is always talking. His energy and passion brings that needed confidence to his team. He has needed no adjustment period in the easyCredit BBL as he has been able to translate his game to the higher BBL level. “Cyprus didn´t have big or athletic guys like the BBL, so I couldn´t rely on pure talent. I needed to bring that special level of energy and that has helped me in the BBL”, stressed Josh Hagins. He has always been known as being a very solid shooter, but took the next step last season to being over 40% in the Cyprus and Basketball Champions League. It is only obvious that he wants to be able to become that lethal consistent shooter. 2I work on my shot each day and don´t think about %. It´s all about preparation. I do take tough shots and know that my % will waver, but shooting is just one part of my game. I take pride in doing a little bit of all well”, stated Josh Hagins. The American continues to have big dreams, but in order to get there knows that grinding in the lab is part of the process of improving and moving up the basketball ladder. “I need to become more physical. I want to be strong on screens as well as being able to defend bigger guards in the post. I just want to get better on a daily basis and be good in every environment”, warned Josh Hagins. The American has left the Telekom Baskets Bonn for Greece to team GS Iraklis Thessaloniki. He has proven that he can survive in a new basketball environment as he is currently averaging 18,2ppg, 3,4rpg, 4,8apg, 1,0spg and is shooting a strong 50% from outside. In his last game against AEK, he produced 32 points. No matter where his basketball journey takes him, he will continue to work hard to be able to shine in every basketball environment. And if he needs some advice, he will always have guys like Marcus Williams and Anthony King there to support him as he tries to make his basketball dreams reality in the future.