Omari Knox (187-SG-86, college: Bloomfield) is a 34 year old 188cm guard from Brooklyn, New York that recently completed his 10th professional season and first with the Ebbecke White Wings Hanau (Germany-ProB) playing 23 games averaging 9.9ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.3%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 89.7%. In the 2019-2020 season he played with TSV Oberhaching Tropics Deisenhofen (Germany-ProB) averaging 15.5ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 87.5%. He has played his whole professional career in Germany including 2 years with OSB Hellenen Muenchen , one season with the RhenStars Cologne and 4 years with the TSV Dachau Spurs. He played 8 seasons in the Regionalliga and has belonged to the top guards in the league averaging over 20 points 5 times and twice averaged 27,0pp in a season. He began his basketball career at Bloomfield College (NCAA2) and as a senior averaged 18.8ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.7apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 40.1%, 3Pts: 40.1%, FT: 71.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the 20-21 season.

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

Thanks Miles!! I’m currently back home in Munich, enjoying the off-season and watching the NBA Playoffs. I took a few weeks off after the season ended. Slowly starting to get back in shape again now.

If you were to travel back home to the States now which eatery would you seek first?

I’m actually flying back home to the states in a few weeks so I have a bunch of places on the list. I think the first stop will be ‘Soul Food’ (Fried Chicken, Mac n Cheese, etc.)

Before we get to basketball, I have to ask you how you experienced a full season of COVID. What were the biggest challenges for you personally on and off the court?

I was very thankful to still be able to play during a Pandemic. However, this was a long season, mentally. I take my hat off to the league, and all of the teams and players who were able to get through it. Constantly hoping each week that everyone on both teams would test negative, so that you could play the game as scheduled and/or also didn’t have to go into quarantine. I think the toughest part was trying to get yourself back in top shape after having to break for 2 weeks mid-season. This happened multiple times throughout the season.

Obviously the fans were missing, but if you look deeper into the COVID issue how would describe this crazy and unpredictable season? Did it feel like a real basketball season?

It took a while to adjust to playing without fans. You literally could hear all the play calls and instructions for both teams. I think it helped our team to support each other more and make sure we always had energy on the bench. There were definitely times throughout the year when it didn’t feel like we were in season.

The Ebbecke White Wings had a solid season reaching the playoffs. How high can you rank the achievement of the team getting to the post season despite COVID?

This was a special season, that I won’t ever forget. There were many ups and downs. We had a bad start to the season, losing the first 5 games. We had several injuries, and 2 also quarantines. Through it all we not only managed to make the playoffs, but also advanced to the second round. I’m proud of everyone who was a part of this season.

You had a new head coach and didn’t begin the season well. Why was 2020 so tough for the club trying to find an identity on the court? Things got better in 2021 as you went 7-3 going into the playoffs. What improved from your stand point in how the team was performing on the court?

Coach did a good job of establishing our identity early on but the problem was that we were small under the basket missing Joe Eichler for the first few games and didn’t have Mike Acosta yet. We were able to compete with every team early on but would lose in the end because we got killed on the boards. In the second part of the season we had both Mike Acosta and Jo Eichler so we usually won the rebound battle and were able to put together a nice win streak.

What was missing in the playoffs to going farther? You couldn’t get by Bochum.

In the playoffs it was the same problem. We lost both Jo Eichler and Mike Acosta for the season so we were again very thin under the basket. Bochum was loaded with size as well as talent so we played them as tough as we could but didn’t manage to beat them.

What is your season summary for the 20-21 Hanau season? What was your fondest moment from the season?

We had a nice mix of veteran and young talented players who all sacrificed their personal goals for the team. Paired up with the motivated Coach Kamil Piechucki, we as a team took over the persona of the coach. Hungry and outworked most of our opponents even when they may have had more talent. There are so many huge wins that come to mind from this season. My fondest moment from this season has to be the playoff road win in Karlsruhe with the game-winner from Til Joenke.

Let’s talk about your teammates. How much of a pleasure was it playing together with German Till Joscha-Joenke? He is also one of those guys way to good for the Pro B.

It was definitely a pleasure playing with Til. He’s a guy I know I can always go to war with. True competitor and leader.

Please describe how German sniper Felix Hecker is more than a three and D player?

Felix definitely made a huge step forward this season. With all of our injuries throughout the year, he was often forced to play more on the ball and make plays for others. I think he did a great job adjusting to the role.

One guy I really enjoyed watching was young German Justus Peuser. How did you see him grow during the season and how far could his journey go?

Justus is a really tough kid. I enjoyed his growth throughout the season. He embraced the starting point guard role. Like every other young player, he has his ups and downs but whenever he was challenged by coach or an opponent he played up to the challenge. He also works super hard and puts in extra work regularly. I think that will take him a long way. I’m excited for him to get the chance to play Division 1 college basketball in the USA this upcoming season.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the Pro B with Hanau?

Montrael Scott or Lars Kamp

Let’s talk about your game. You averaged 9.9ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.3%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 89.7%. Your stats were down from last season with the Tropics, but you played 13 games more. How was your role different this season?

This season with Hanau, I sacrificed a bit of my own personal scoring to allow the younger guys to develop. In the long run it helped the team to perform much better and made us more dangerous. Opposing teams now had more players that they had to focus on stopping, rather than focusing on just one or two guys.

How content were you with your season. Was it difficult not having that Regionalliga type of role anymore?

It took some getting used to, to adjust to not having the same role of carrying a team all alone. It was truly a learning experience. Things also change the higher the level is, in most cases. As I grow older, I expect that my role going forward on any other team will be not only to help with my scoring/play-making abilities, but also with my experience.

Your turning 35 this year. After your 10th season, how strong do you feel? You stated last season with all the Regionalliga season you saved more energy. What direction is your career going now?

This season with the White Wings was more of the same. I improved at realizing when the team needed me to focus more on other things, rather than my scoring. It also felt good to know that I can still take over a game with my scoring whenever it’s needed. After 10 seasons, I feel pretty good, even after having such a major injury over a year ago. I feel like I still have a few years left in me to play at a high level (whether Pro A or Pro B and I can help any team with what I bring to the table. I would say that I’m now in my Jamal Crawford/ Lou Williams years.

Many guys have debated Lebron vs Steph in the MVP debate this year. Who should be MVP?

Stephen Curry is my MVP

How good is Devin Booker. Where does he rank right now in today’s NBA? Is he only top 10 or top 7? Or is he even better?

Devin Booker is a huge talent. I think he’s just getting scratching the surface with what he can do as a player but still has a ways to go. I would say he’s Top 10.

How did you react when you heard Kwame Brown’s words referring to his career and how he was treated by Michael Jordan?

I actually wasn’t surprised. We all saw how competitive Michael Jordan was as a player, and also as a person, I wouldn’t expect him to be any different as a general manager.

Chris Paul recently passed Magic Johnson for fifth all-time in assists. Where do you rank him with the best point guards all-time despite never having won a ring?

Chris Paul in my opinion will go down as one of the best point guards of all time. Super-talented competitor who makes every team better wherever he’s played. I would have to rank Chris Paul lower than some of those who do already have rings (Isaiah Thomas for example) because he has played on championship caliber teams and never won one.

Where do you see the journey going with Jayson Tatum who recently scored 60 points? Is he a top 10 player in the NBA now?

Jayson Tatum is one of my favorite players to watch at the moment. He’s a guy who has it all. I just hope that he somehow develops that Alpha mentality that Kobe and MJ had. Much easier said than done but attitude, work ethic, determination and pure will, separate many players. I wouldn’t say he’s a top 10 player yet. He still has plenty to prove. No disrespect to a guy like Paul George but those mental aspects of the game separate a Paul George from Lebron James and/or Kevin Durant. Tatum can go either way being a Paul George (who is really good) or, Lebron/KD level which is a once in a generation type of player.

Dino Radja recently said he couldn’t see Russell Westbrook leading a team in Europe to success. Do you agree?

If we are talking Euroleague, then yes I completely agree! In Europe it’s different type of game and Westbrook’s game wouldn’t translate well in the long run.

Draymond Green recently said that he is the best defender on the planet. Do you agree?

Hahahaha no, I don’t agree with that. Really good defender though.

Have you seen the Coming to America sequel? It has had mixed reviews. Shouldn’t they just have left it alone?

I enjoyed the sequel but definitely not better than the original. I guess it’s good for the new generation but they would have to watch both of course.

Thanks Omari for the chat.

                With the basketball dog days of summer over, now the basketball dog days of pre season have arrived as easyCredit BBL teams are getting ready for the upcoming season as best as possible. It isn´t any different for clubs Fraport Skyliners and new league team MLP Academics Heidelberg. Frankfurt was coming off an easy blow out win over Pro A team Astrostras Bochum while Heidelberg had clobbered the Pro A team wiha Panthers. Both teams faced each other for a pre season duel in Frankfurt with many new faces at both ends of the court. But one guy who never goes away and will be able to see his #23 jersey high above in the Fraport arena even in 20 years is Quantez Robertson. He is playing his 13^th season while being one of the identity figures of the league with EWE Baskets legend Rickey Paulding. The identity figure of the MLP Academics is clearly their head coach Serbian Frenki Ignatovic who was still paying his dues in 2007 with TV Langen, but since then was six years with the Kirchheim Knights and now is in his eighth season with the MLP Academics and is clearly the biggest reason together with manager Matthias Lautenschlager why this organization has made such a massive rise in German basketball in the last years. The Fraport Skyliners seemed like they had a 30 man bench as head coach Diego Ocampo had enough players to chose from while the MLP Academics had only a nine man rotation as players Courtney Stockard and their new center were out while Frankfurt was without new American ex NBA player Reggie Heard. The Fraport Skyliners had a great start and held the lead in the first half, but let up severely in the third quarter allowing the guests to get a 10 point lead and then eke out the 63-60 victory. “The effort was very good. We started very well. As soon as we missed shots, our defensive level went down. We began to think too much which hurt our defense. We need to improve our mental strength”, stressed Fraport Skyliner head coach Diego Ocampo. The guests fought until the end and got spirited play from their scoring guards Jordan Geist and Shy Ely who carried the team in tough times. “We played 30 minutes of solid basketball. Frankfurt is always tough and play very physical. We had problems with the physicality at the start. As soon as we settled in, we made it a defensive struggle. We need to cut down on turnovers, but I thought that we did a good job sticking to our defensive principles”, stressed Heidelberg guard Shy Ely.

                The Fraport Skyliners Jumped out all over the MLP Academics taking a rapid 13-2 lead. Frankfurt got on a groove and the offense just continued clicking. Second year forward Rasheed Moore was instrumental netting 7 points showing he can score in bunches and has a fine inside out game. Frankfurt also got a basket from young German Len Schoorman who is continuing to want to make a new step this season. Ex Alba Berlin forward Lorenz Brenneke made a dunk and new Skyliner Donovan Donaldson made a lay in on transition. This was probably Donaldson´s strongest part of the game as he was a true floor general organizing the offense well and always pushing the ball in transition. Frankfurt was able to keep controlling the game and closed out the first quarter strong getting a bucket from 221cm Dutch man Matt Haarms and a trey from Frankfurt identity figure Quantez Robertson who is in his 13^th season with the club. Heidelberg got a basket from German forward Maxi Ugrai and free throws form ex Missouri guard Jordan Geist who couldn´t buy a basket in the first quarter. The MLP Academics had their problems sustaining consistent playmaking and had problems on the boards as they were missing length and physicality down low. The Fraport Skyliners had the comfortable 20-9 advantage after 10 minutes.

                The Fraport Skyliners held the good lead, but it slowly waned away as the guests were able to cut it down to 36-34 at the break. Heidelberg began with a swift 4-0 run as Pro A veteran Albert Kuppe scored on a lay in and flashy Rob Lowery who played with Alba Berlin in 2015-2016 made a lay in on transition cutting Frankfurt´s advantage to 20-14. But Frankfurt then got a burst of offensive production from ex Auburn(NCAA) great Quantez Robertson who scored 5 points to up Frankfurt´s lead to 25-14. Heidelberg picked up their offense in the second quarter and began to execute  a lot better. They surprised Frankfurt going on a 8-0 run to trail only 25-22. In the run the club got vital force from rugged physical 32 year old German Philip Heyden who played his first BBL game in the 2007-2008 season with Alba Berlin. He scored twice in the paint showing he can score with his back to the basket and Shy Ely showed his shooting abilities netting two 20 footers. Frankfurt kept the lead, but just couldn´t shake the MLP Academics as they always had an answer. Frankfurt got good production from new American Brooks DeBisshop who made a runner and Brenneke who scored. But Heidelberg countered with the then usual suspects Heyden connected on a pretty hook shot and Ely dropped a three pointer. Ex Wurzburg forward Brekkot Chapman sunk a three to dead lock the game at 31-31. Frankfurt wasn´t as aggressive anymore and gave the guests more open looks. Heidelberg made wiser decisions and finally hit crucial shots something they couldn´t in the first quarter. Frankfurt tried to close out the second quarter with a swift kick and 5-0 run as Haarms made a dunk and Moore hit a trey, but Quantez Robertson made a bad foul allowing Jordan Geist to sink three free throws with three seconds to go. Frankfurt had the slim 36-34 lead after 20 minutes. “This was a typical pre season game. Both coaches were trying things and both teams had good and bad phases. Frankfurt played well, but couldn´t always use their advantage on the boards”, stated ex Science City Jena assistant coach Steven Claus.

                In the third quarter, it looked like the Fraport Skyliners had just got out of bed. They couldn´t muster any kind of productive offense allowing the MLP Academics to shoot out on a 12-0 run to grab the lead back and have the 46-36 advantage. In the run the guests got important contribution form Jordan Geist who finally got his offense going scoring seven points. The club also got a trey from Shy Ely and Chapman. Frankfurt had massive problems stopping the quick Heidelberg guards on the penetration and were unable to get baskets in the paint. Frankfurt were unsuccessful in their first 9 possessions which allowed Heidelberg to run away with the lead and hold the home team to no points in the first 6 minutes and 45 seconds of the third quarter. Often last season it was Rasheed Moore that would come off the bench and be that spark plug and this time it was the same deal. He came on the court was aggressive and executed on offense with 7 points leading a 12-3 run to tie the game at 49-49. Donaldson also scored as did young German Jordan Samare who gave 4 points and 2 rebounds in 4 minutes. It was apparent to observe that the MLP Academics were getting tired as boasting a 9 man rotation wasn´t easy. Frankfurt couldn´t get the lead back as Shy Ely scored inside giving the guests the 51-49 lead after three quarters. “We played great defense and finished each possession with a rebound. We forced them to turnovers and got out running”, added Shy Ely. “We had too many turnovers and didn´t finish the plays the way we wanted to “, stressed Fraport Skyliner Lukas Wank.

                The Fraport Skyliners  got off to another slow start in the fourth quarter, but rallied again to come back and make the game exciting again. The MLP Academics got out on a quick 8-2 run to extend their lead to 59-51. They got buckets from Heyden who made an easy tap in with no resistance form the Frankfurt bigs, a acrobatic Geist lay in, free throws from Chapman and a 25 footer from Ely while Quantez Robertson used the mismatch and scored inside. The Fraport Skyliners then made a furious come back going on a 9-2 run to cut Heidelberg´s lead to only 61-60. In the run, Frankfurt got back to back crushing two handed dunks from Matt Haarms who was fed each time from German Matthew Meredith who was sporting a new hair dew that had me fooled, because I had to ask a quite surprised Marco Voeller who #77 was . Donaldson who had a slow shooting day going 3/11 took a no look pass from Tez and sunk a three in the corner. Lorenz Brenneke then made a lay in. Frankfurt took advantage of the Heidelberg playing to much hero ball on three consecutive possessions to creep back. German Niklas Wuerzner then made the play of the game tipping a ball away from Donaldson at mid court and getting the lay in and 63-60 lead with 44 seconds to go. Frankfurt then didn´t get the right shot that they wanted as Matt Haarms missed a three. Ely then missed and Frankfurt took advantage of Heidelberg not fouling and had one more chance to take the game into OT, but Moore´s three point attempt went in and out and that was the ball game. “Frankfurt came back and took advantage of mis matches. But we were able to weather the storm and got needed stops and baskets. We should of fouled at the end. They had a good look. We take that as a learning experience”, stated Shy Ely. “We didn´t get the shot we wanted at the end. Moore had a great look. It was so close between going in and out”, stressed Lukas Wank. The MLP Academics were led by Jordan Giest, Shy Ely and Philipp Heyden who had 14 points a piece. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Rasheed Moore with 17 points while Quantez Robertson added 10 points. The MLP Academics shot 41% from the field and 29% form outside and had 34 rebounds and 18 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 40% form the field and 24% from outside and had 32 rebounds and 19 turnovers.

Pete Strobl (agency: Octagon Europe ) has been around the European basketball scene for over 20 years having had a stellar professional basketball career and was an assistant coach for German easyCredit BBL team ratiopharm Ulm in 2018-2019. He then was head coach of the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig from 2019-2021. Currently he is the head coach of the Jobstairs Giessen 46ers. He played at Niagara (NCAA) from 1997-2000 and then had a 9 year professional playing career that took him to countries like Germany, Austria, France, Ireland, Iceland and Switzerland. He founded The Scoring Factory in Pittsburgh and wrote a must read book called Backspin. He is a very interesting basketball mind that doesn’t shy away from speaking his mind especially on Twitter. germanhoops.com and Pete Strobl (agency: Octagon Europe ) team up so often talking basketball with the title ‘Current basketball affairs with Pete Strobl (agency: Octagon Europe ). You can follow Pete Strobl (agency: Octagon Europe ) (agency: Octagon Europe ) (agency: Octagon Europe ) on twitter @petestrobl

What are your first impressions of Giessen?

My family and I really like Giessen. A lot of people told us beforehand that perhaps it wasn’t the prettiest city, but I’m not sure those people have ever actually been here. The downtown area is great and the people are friendly. Giessen is a city with a huge basketball tradition and the fans here are amazing. People stop me in the streets to talk about the team, tell me stories about their past glory and to generally welcome me to the club. I honestly feel that we have some very good people in place, but to take the next step as a club there needs to be a push to improve the physical infrastructure. We need our own practice facility for us as well as our youth teams in order to really take the next step. We have a lot of work to do in every area, but I’m excited to be here and to help write our own chapter in this special basketball legacy.

Will Player Development be a focus with your new team?

The main focus for us is to develop a ‘defense-first’ mentality here. Our GM and I have made this our priority since Day 1 and we specifically recruited high character players that have the right mindset to work hard and to work together. Developing the right defensive mindset along with the right approach is the first step for us here in Giessen. Player Development is also a very big part of my coaching philosophy and this is also an area in which our coaching staff (Steve Wriedt, Patti Unger, Rauly Leino as well as Athletic Coach Guillermo Martin) take a lot of pride. It’s a two-way street though and we need players who care about improving just as much as we care about teaching. Last season I coached a number of talented young players who were able to take huge steps and I fully expect that many players in Giessen will be ready to do the same.

What are the team goals for this season?

We need to firmly establish an identity as a team with a defense first mentality. We’re on the right track, but we still have a lot of work to do in order to firmly cement this into our collective basketball DNA. Giessen is a special city and has arguably the loudest fans in the BBL. I want them to see and feel that our passion on the court is equal to their enthusiasm in the stands. I know you’re asking more for some type of prediction of wins, but we literally are in the midst of developing a culture. Once this identity is firmly established and we can measure ourselves against other BBL teams, we’ll have a better idea of where we fit and how we compare to the rest of the league. In the meantime we’re going step by step and making sure that we improve every practice.

It was only three years ago where Jaleen Smith (6’4”-PG-94, college: UNH) had come off an ok rookie season in Germany with the MLP Academics where he averaged an all right 7.6ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 80.3% in the second league. At that moment he was as far away from the first German division easyCredit BBL as it also was for a certain Ishmail Wainwright who had finished at Baylor (NCAA) averaging 5,0ppg as a senior and looked more like a football player then incredible versatile basketball player, but in 2021 is a member of the Toronto Raptors. Sometimes a player’s career can take such a positive turn and it wasn’t any different for Jaleen Smith. I remember giving him my typical post season interview that I give so many Americans in Germany in 2018 after his rookie season and two answers of him really stuck out. Sometimes there is a distinct difference between saying something and actually doing it. In the case of the likeable Texas native, he stuck to his words. His rookie season in Germany wasn’t anything near thrilling and he understood that 100%. He knew then that if he wanted to continue to get better and make waves as a professional basketball player that he couldn’t ever be content. Who knows where he would be today had he averaged 17/5/6 as a rookie in the Pro A in 2018. He surely would be at a high level, but having that less than average season as a rookie made him mentally tough instantly. ‘I can never be satisfied with anything I do. Just not in my nature to be content. So, I’m not content with my season I had. I just want more you know. I JUST WANT IT ALL’, warned Jaleen Smith in June 2018. After an unmemorable rookie season, he knew that he couldn’t be a part of long summer night cook outs in the dog days of summer in Freeport, Texas, but had to set his priorities straight and be in a place where sweating is the norm. ‘I’m going to work out 2-3 times a day. I’m going to the weight room in the morning and doing basketball stuff in the afternoon. I’m not having a job this summer. All grind this summer’, warned Jaleen Smith in June, 2018. Three years later the grind of that summer in 2018 and all the years after have paid off for the ex New Hampshire (NCAA) guard as he reached the easyCredit BBL in his third year as top BBL coach John Patrick believed in his abilities. In his second season, he led Ludwigsburg to the best record in the league and was reward as 2021 BBL MVP. Soon after he had a work out with the Utah Jazz. Then followed a successful stint in the NBA Summer League with the Phoenix Suns and now he is a Euroleague player with Alba Berlin. He has shown so much is possible if you have the right mind set and have the constant work ethic.

Recently Jaleen Smith who will battle his ex teammate Shy Ely of the MLP Academics this season in the easyCredit BBL with Alba Berlin played in the NBA Summer League with the Phoenix Suns. Three years ago he was very impressed by Shy Ely’s game and couldn’t even name a tougher player in the Pro A that season then him. ‘Does practice count ? Haha I would have to say Shy Ely in practice. Nobody in the league compares to him to be honest. He can score from all 3 levels on offense so it’s tough to guard that’, said Jaleen Smith in 2018. Not only will the American see the top players in Europe in the Euroleague, but already got a dose of top young guys recently in the NBA Summer League. It was a dream come true for him to be a part of the Phoenix Suns organization. ‘They treated you like you were on the main team it was really good. The coaches and front office was so helpful plus they wanted everyone on the team to be successful. I just enjoyed being a part of a NBA organization it really felt like a NBA 2k game being there’, joked Jaleen Smith. His experience in Las Vegas at the NBA Summer League was everything he thought it would be and more. He was very happy that people could see him play and see how his game has grown in the last years. He definitely didn’t disappoint anyone in Las Vegas as he held his own against the top new talent averaging 10,0ppg, 3,0rpg and 4,0apg. ‘I played pretty good I thought but it was great playing against high level competition for the summer’, stressed Jaleen Smith. But anyone that knows him, knows that he is never really satisfied as his three pointer is still a work in progress as he shot only 28% from the parking lot. Back in his rookie season he shot 33% and already back then he knew it’s all about being confident and continuing to shoot even if it isn’t falling. Stabilizing his distance shot this season will separate him from being a good Euroleague player to being a great Euroleague player. ‘I think that is the difference maker in my game. I have games where I am a sniper shooter then sometimes I don’t make any shots. So I just have to work on the balance and be consistent’, warned Jaleen Smith.

Not only concentrating on always having his A game ready and making the right play on the floor was on his menu in Las Vegas, but also establishing special new connections to his teammates. He actually had one unique bond to Michael Frazier who had briefly been with the MHP Riesen in 2017-2018 and would reach the big show with the Houston Rockets two years later playing 16 NBA games. ‘Michael told me he was going to go to Ludwigsburg but something happened. We had the MHP conversation just telling him how it was and stuff like that. First off he’s a gym rat. He’s always in the gym working on his game. He’s also a great person to talk to he’s dedicated to the game for sure’, expressed Jaleen Smith. He also remembered battling against certain players and one of those was 218cm center Bol Bol the son of the late Manute Bol who was an NBA icon in the 80’s at 229cm. The big man from Sudan who has a 234 wingspan hasn’t made an NBA impact yet, but after a very potent 2021 NBA Summer League stint might make his break through in his third season. ‘ Bol is really talented. I have never played someone that tall that can do that many things with the basketball. He’s a tough matchup for sure. I expect him to be getting a lot more minutes in the NBA compared to the last 2 years’, said Jaleen Smith. Matching up against other top guards and seeing how his game matched up was also thrilling as he saw close up why Joshua Gray has had NBA stints before. ‘He’s aggressive every time he touches the ball. He’s either scoring for his self or dishing it off to his teammates. He’s more aggressive scoring but I do little bit of everything in my game you can’t really compare it’, commented Jaleen Smith.

The NBA Summer League is a few weeks old, but it was an amazing experience that he will never forget. He also took the vital advice to heart that the Phoenix Suns coaching staff gave him and will apply it as best as possible so he can make new steps in his game with Alba Berlin. ‘They just told me to be more aggressive with my touches. Sometimes I can be bit passive and make the right play but sometimes I just need to go and get a bucket. Thats how the greats make a living in the NBA’, warned Jaleen Smith. A massive part of the whole NBA Summer League is seeing all the important basketball heads and legends walking around. He had little time to be in awe as he was concentrating on his own issues on the court, but it wasn’t rare to bump into guys that he had grown up watching on TV. ‘I saw so many NBA stars just walking around in our hotel. The funny thing is nobody was running up to get an autograph from them so they were walking around the hotel like they were just a regular person’, stated Jaleen Smith. He won’t only have long lasting memories from off the court, but also from his game on the court. Remembering a certain play is only obvious as it isn’t every day that your playing against a team like Cleveland where Lebron James played so many years. ‘Our last game against the Cavs, we ran an inbounds play for me to fake a handoff and the fake worked and then I dished it off to our big man for a finish to be up 1 with a couple of seconds left’, smiled Jaleen Smith.

One has to wonder just how much of an impression he made on the Suns organization as well as other NBA teams. Talented guards are as usual in the world today as it is for a Draymond Green being called the best defender in the NBA now, but still why not keep the NBA dream alive and go to a NBA team training camp? Jaleen Smith chose against that and picked Alba Berlin which is very understandable. ‘I could’ve waited little bit longer for something less than a guarantee contract but I wanted something more secure for me and my family and Europe was the best option. I’m still young and have a chance for it but I want to play EuroLeague and get that experience’, stressed Jaleen Smith. He has joined Alba Berlin which have become Germany’s number one team again surpassing FC Bayern Munich after winning back to back league titles. Already last season Smith was packed with very good talent in Ludwigsburg, but this season has even greater basketball aptitude with teammates. Being able to play with guys like Luke Sikma and Tamar Blatt excite him a lot. ‘I’m excited to play with a player like Sikma he makes everyone better around him just like me so it’s going to be fun playing with him this season. Tamar will defiantly will be the floor general of our team. He can really pass the ball but he can really score the ball also. Well definitely feed off each other this coming year’, added Jaleen Smith. One has to wonder if he can take another step in the BBL with his stats. Probably not as he has so much more scoring talent around him then in Ludwigsburg, plus team play is a vital recipe for success in the organization, plus his minutes should decline which is normal. But he will have an added and new challenge with playing his first Euroleague season. The American who has Jordan, Magic, Shaq and Lebron on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore has that same fire and confidence and is ready to go into his fifth professional season. ‘I’m really excited to be playing Euroleague this coming season. I would watch it on my laptop last year so its crazy I’m going to be playing in it. You’ll see same guy that has been playing in Germany the last 4 years no different player. If you know how I play you will see it’, warned Jaleen Smith. He has achieved so much in the last months and now it’s time to do something he has never done as a professional and that is win a title. He couldn’t have landed in a better place then Alba Berlin to be able to achieve that.

Niklas Geske (188-PG-94) is a 27 year old 188cm point guard that is playing his third season with the Astrostars Bochum (Pro B) and last season helped them into the Pro A playing 27 games averaging 19.8ppg, 3.9rpg, Assists-2 (8.7apg), Steals-4 (2.5spg), FGP-3 (67.7%), 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 83.5%. He began his basketball career with SVD Dortmund II (2.Regionalliga). he played in the easyCredit BBL from 2013-2017 for teams Phoenix Hagen, rasta Vechta and the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg amassing a total of 150 games and also played 23 Basketball Champions League games. Before coming to Bochum, he played for the EN Baskets Schwelm and for phoenix Hagen again. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about his basketball career.

Niklas thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you and how is basketball life treating you?

Thanks for having me! I’m in Dortmund right know. Taking some time off after a physically and mentally hard season. But I’m surely watching the BBl and NBA Playoffs and it’s some great Basketball!

Before we talk about basketball, I have to ask you about COVID. What was the most challenging thing for you in your second season with COVID?

Keeping the focus at all times was really difficult during this last season. Being mentally flexible for all upcoming situations and building chemistry without fans.

How can one honestly rate this season with all the drama that went on with COVID?

I believe it has to be rated really high. All the uncertainty and all the adversity make the success we had even more special.

Every team had their problems. Congrats on an amazing season and reaching the Pro B final and reaching the Pro A. Where does this rank with all your basketball achievements?

It’s up there with winning the silver medal at the University games. Finishing third in the BBL and making it to the Champions League Top4. Especially because I played such an important role achieving this goal.

How special was reaching the Pro B final and helping your team reach the Pro A considering you played with Bochum in 2012-2013 in the Regionalliga?

It’s my second time moving up with Bochum in two years I played here. So it really is something that doesn’t happen often. Seeing all the improvements the club made over those 8 years are tremendous.

How much credit does one have to give head coach Felix Banobre? Is Spain the new sexy in terms of coaching in Germany?

The Coach always plays a huge role and so Felix deserves a lot of credit for our success! The Spanish way definitely has a growing impact in the Basketball culture in Germany. It’s a flowing style and we had a lot of fun executing Felix ideas.

A big strength of the team was their consistency. Whenever you lost a game you struck back and began another winning streak. Was this team like a family?

Chemistry has been great all year! This is always important to be successful at any level. In this team you could always know that your teammates have your back no matter what. Definitely a special group of guys!

How key was bringing that 8 game winning streak into the playoffs? The team must of felt invincible?

Also the way we played the first playoff game against Hanau. We were ready for that time of the year. Unfortunately we went to quarantine right after the game and we lost that rhythm but we got it done.

The Muenster series was exciting which Bochum won in three games. What do you feel was the difference in the series?

I believe experience always plays a role in those series and moments. Another thing was probably our mindset. We started the season with the goal to move up to Pro A and you could tell that everybody on our time was so focused on achieving this goal. The mindest within this team was incredible.

Let’s talk about your teammates. Seldom do you see two so dominant Germans in the Pro B like you and Johannes Joos. What did it mean playing with him?

First of all I don’t believe in the sections of Germans, Bosman, Imports or however you want to do it It’s just 12 players with the same goal. JJ was unbelievable all season! His shooting and length make it nearly impossible to stop him. He really made life as a point guard easy.

Lars Kamp seemed to be in the shadow of Geske and Joos. What did you appreciate most about his game?
At least everybody on our team knows how super important Lars was for the Team’s success. Simply a perfect fit. His shooting, defense and physicality were a problem for every team playing against us!

Although he played only 11 games, Marco Buljevic’s leadership is so valuable. Is he still a player that can beat you from downtown at any time of a game?

Unfortunately Marco was held back by some injuries and so he only played those 11 games. He can always get into the game and make shots for your team. But in my eyes he was even more important as a leader and person you can talk to!

There were many young Germans on the team. Which young German do you feel improved the most over the season?

Probably Gabriel Jung. He always was ready to compete in practice and in the games. I believe he will have a bright future.

Let’s talk about your game. You averaged 19.8ppg, 3.9rpg, Assists-2 (8.7apg), Steals-4 (2.5spg), FGP-3 (67.7%), 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 83.5%. How content were you with your own personal season?

Besides every stat what I am mostly proud of is leading the team to the best record in the regular season and moving up to the Pro A in the Playoffs! I couldn’t be happier with that!

You averaged almost 9 assists a game. What added step did you make in your playmaking skills this season that you didn’t have before?

Honestly I think that the playmaking was always one of my biggest skills! But on different teams you play the way the team needs you to play to win games. This year it was a lot about finding the hot hand and making the right reads!

You have taken steps back twice. With a season like this the pro A or BBL have to be a main focus?

Stepping back from the BBL was a decision to be able to start university and play basketball at a high level! But also being able to combine both studies and basketball and I’m really happy with the decision I took. As I already signed my extension I’m looking forward for a fun Pro A season!

You scored 30 points or more three times this season. I can imagine your 30 points in the game three win over muenster was your favorite?

Yes and No. It was such an important game and so the moment was just really big to show up for that game, but it wasn’t to efficient and I didn’t like that too much.That’s why I really liked the game against Wedel. I believe that was over 30 points on 11 or 12 shots.

On what area’s of your game will you continue to work on this summer to keep improving your game?

Shooting is always a big part of it. If I’m able to make my shots I know a lot of things will open up for me and my team. Another thing is to be physically ready for the season!

Who was the toughest guard that you faced this season in the pro B?

I’m going with Jasper Guenther. Playing with him 2 seasons ago in Hagen and see how he organized Muenster’s offense and torched our defense multiple times was really tough. His floaters, mid-range jumpers and also his 3 point shooting made it super hard to guard him!

Chris Paul recently passed Magic Johnson for fifth all-time in assists. Where do you rank him with the best point guards all-time despite never having won a ring?

I think Chris Paul is definitely up there with the best of the best. Maybe he has a chance this year. I really like the Suns team.

Where do you see the journey going with Jayson Tatum who recently scored 60 points?Is he a top 10 player in the NBA now?

Without a question he’s getting there but I don’t have him in my top10 yet.

Dino Radja recently said he couldn’t see Russell Westbrook leading a team in Europe to success. Do you agree?

I see where he is coming from, but I believe no team in Europe would be able to stop that athleticism!

Draymond Green recently said that he is the best defender on the planet. Do you agree?


Yup! His ability to guard 1-5 is superior.

Have you seen the Coming to America sequel? It has had mixed reviews. Shouldn’t they just have left it alone?

Unfortunately I haven’t seen it so can’t answer that one.

Thanks Niklas for the chat.

The basketball world can be so small sometimes. It was May 2019 when I was home in Boston for a routine visit to see my family and as usual I couldn’t refrain from still following my childhood autograph desire. I may be a grown man now, but for me I still can get a chill getting a selfie with a Jason Kidd or seeing a Lebron James walk by me onto the bus. The Milwaukee Bucks were in town for a playoff series against the Boston Celtics. I saw the Bucks twice and was lucky to see many great players like the Greek freak Giannis Antetokounpo, Kris Middleton or a Eric Bledsoe. Even if those guys refrained from signing, I really didn’t care at the end of the day, because the highlight was meeting Spanish legend Pau Gasol who was hurt, but luckily was traveling with the team. I also as usual couldn’t take a day off and even interviewed Bucks assistant coach Charles Lee who I had covered in Germany 10 years ago. There were some bucks who stopped to sign like Brook Lopez, Pat Connaughton or Donte Divincenzo and there was another guy that exited the posh five star hotel who looked young and had to be a rookie. I asked an experienced autograph collector next to me who that was and he quickly blurted Bonzie Colson Jr. (198-PF-96, college: Notre Dame). Bonzie who? The name stuck out with me. Since I cover the game in Europe, I don’t follow the NBA or NCAA as much. Colson came out and signed a few autographs. He wasn’t as in demand as the stars, but was very polite and signed my index card and then was off to the bus. Fast forward ahead to April 2021. When I was checking the Strasburg roster at the start of the season, I was very happy to see three ex BBL players play in France and then I saw the name Bonzie Colson Jr. and right away remembered I had seen him in Boston two years earlier. I right away wanted to interview him. There I was speaking to Bonzie Colson Jr. over the phone in Germany. I was in the hospital recovering from Cancer in Mainz, Germany and he was in Strasburg, France about a two hour drive from me. The first thing that stood out again was his politeness on the phone. My vast basketball network helped me once again with being able to get this interview. Colson’s has three Strasburg teammates with Deandre Lansdowne, Brandon Jefferson and Ishmail Wainwright who I had interviewed on many occasions the last years in Germany. He definitely agreed with me that sometimes the basketball world can be so tiny. ‘The basketball world doesn’t seem so big when I signed an autograph for you in Boston and now were here doing an interview. I talked to my teammates Brandon, Ishmail and Deandre and they said you were a nice guy so why not. I like to talk basketball’, said Bonzie Colson Jr..

Before we delve into the fascinating basketball career of Bonzie Colson Jr., it has to be known that the versatile player isn’t only a talented hoopster and well mannered young man, but a gifted actor something he began to cherish in high school and later continued to pursue at Notre Dame (NCAA). He is still at the beginning of a long and fruitful basketball career, but getting back to acting is something he could imagine doing later in life. ‘If I got a call to do something why not. I was lucky that my high school coach Mike Heart allowed us to do something out of our comfort zone. I really have fond memories. When I was a freshman I did Aladdin with NBA player Michael Carter-Williams playing Aladdin. I and my teammates had small roles as his guards. I had a bigger role as a junior as I was in Guys and Dolls and in my senior year I had the main role as Sunny in Grease. I wouldn’t mind doing TV one day. I like A Game of Thrones and am a fanatic of the Office. I’m an outgoing guy and have the type of character to be an actor’, stated Bonzie Colson Jr.. He also remembered doing a skit in high school where his teammate Matt Farrell who currently is playing professionally in Turkey with Buyukcekmece Basketbol was playing his misbehaving son. When I put him on the spot and asked him which current teammate could play that role now, he didn’t hesitate for a moment before firing the name Ishmail Wainwright at me. ‘Ish is an outgoing and funny guy. He is always smiling. He is expressional like me. He is the type of guy that may of done things in life the way I did’, expressed Bonzie Colson Jr.. TV might be his calling, but he also follows movies and like many has seen the new Coming to America sequel. Like many he wasn’t as impressed with this one as much as the classic original. ‘The first one was way better. It isn’t easy to make a better one. Many of the actors from the original came back, but were older. But everyone one wanted another one’, said Bonzie Colson Jr.. I’m definitely hope Colson goes into acting, because if he learned the acting trade at St Andrew’s in Rhode Island the same school where Andrew Robinson went to, then he must of learned something. I still think, Andrew Robinson should have been nominated for an Oscar in Dirty Harry. He was the perfect crazy killer.

Colson was born on January 12th, 1996 in Washington DC. He grew up in New Bedford Massachusetts. He comes from a basketball family. His dad played at the University of Rhode Island and was one of the school’s top shot blocking leaders. Later he would be an assistant at George Washington and Boston College. Despite being only 193cm, Bonzie went on to shine in the front court. He had a wing span of 2,12cm and was ignored by major programs. Notre Dame assistant coach Martin Inglelsby who then would become head coach at Delaware saw something special in Colson and felt like he would fit perfectly into the Notre Dame system., Colson would attend Notre Dame for four years. Ingelsby was very important for Colson being able to develop as a player with the strength that he had of being undersized and playing in the front court. ‘Notre Dame was a great fix for me with basketball and academics. Ingelsby had played there and for head coach Mike Brey and knew what it was like to play for him. Brey gave me the needed trust and comfort. I have a great relationship with Ingelsby. I learned a lot from him”, commented Bonzie Colson Jr..

He remembered always beating current NBA player Jerami Grant in one on one duels in practice played at Notre Dame from 2014-2018 playing a total of 126 NCAA games being able to improve his scoring stats each season. He achieved a lot with the school wining the ACC tournament and reaching the NCAA Elite 8 twice. Right in his freshman season where he played 32 games averaging 5.6ppg, 2.7rpg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 75.4%, he already witnessed his personal favorite moment. ‘Winning the ACC tournament was by far my biggest achievement in the NCAA. Coming from high school to the NCAA and playing in the top conference ACC and winning was amazing. The ACC has top coaches, great teams and players. We are still a brotherhood today. That is what made that team so special’, remembered Bonzie Colson Jr.. He came off the bench in 31 of 32 games and scored in double figures in 5 games. His top game was netting 17 points against Duke in a 74-64 win. He was so fired up for the game and seized the moment. ‘I was working hard in practice for an opportunity to play. I was playing well in practice and got the opportunity. Our captain Pat Connaughton was a big help. He told me to be that junk yard dog and come of the screen and roll and just shoot. That is what I did. We trusted each other. This game allowed my career to skyrocket’, remembered Bonzie Colson Jr.. His season ended with a brutal 68-66 loss to Kentucky in the Elite 8. That powerhouse team would send 8 of 9 players to the NBA including guard Devin Booker who later would net 70 points in an NBA game. That was the best team that he ever faced in the NCAA. ‘Booker was coming off the bench. That is how talented they were. They were really stacked, but we also had a great team. We took them to the wire. That just showed how good the talent level was then’, said Bonzie Colson Jr.. In his sophomore season he played 37 games averaging 11.3ppg, 6.8rpg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 78.3%. His game took off as he scored in double figures in 23 games. He also contributed 5 double doubles. He best game was a huge 31 point 11 rebound explosion in a 95-91 win against top school Duke. He was ousted in the Elite 8 for a second straight year this time by North Carolina 88-74 as he contributed 8 points and 5 boards. It was another game where he faced off against many future NBA players. ‘They were so talented. I remember the Harrison twins, Brice Johnson and Marcus Paige who was hard to defend and shot well over the screens. I remember Isaac Hicks and Justin Johnson. They were so quick and athletic’, stated Bonzie Colson Jr.. His game went to another level in his last two years as he played a total of 57 games averaging 17.8ppg, 10.1rpg, 1.6apg, 1.1spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 78.3% as a junior and as a senior averaged 19.7ppg, 10.1rpg, 1.7spg, 2.2bpg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 76.1%. He scored in double figures in 55 of 57 games and scored 20 points or more 22 times and had 30 double doubles. He exploded for 37 points in a win over Dartmouth and scorched Florida State for 33 points. One could see that his game progressed in his 4 years. ‘It was the four best years of my life. I got better and better in shape each year. I learned more and more how the game worked and my teammates depended on me. My teammates and I had a great relationship and I was able to be that dominant player. We had a lot of talented players and a great group of guys and coaching staff’, remembered Bonzie Colson Jr.. His hard work paid off allowing him to become a professional player, but also head coach Mike Brey was instrumental for Colson becoming the player that he is today. ‘He allowed us to play. We didn’t have that pressure. He taught us to have fun but to always give a lot of energy. He also helped me become a leader’, warned Bonzie Colson Jr..

He lists NBA players Jahlil Okafor, Montrezl Harrell and Marvin Bagley as his toughest opponents in the NCAA wasn’t drafted, but signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He then was sent to the Canton Charge (G-League) and was able to demonstrate that he could play averaging 15.4ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.4apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 39.2%, FT: 65.8%. He had some monster games against OKC with 27/16 stats and a 25/11 game against Long Island, but it still wasn’t enough for the NBA. His hard work and results in his first pro job was so vital for him reaching the NBA not too long afterward. ‘I was upset getting cut by the Cavs, but I knew that it was a business. Coach Posey taught me what it meant to be a pro. I worked hard each day and was very motivated. It was a great learning experience’, stated Bonzie Colson Jr.. In January 2019 came his big break as he was signed by the Milwaukee Bucks. He continued to play very well in the G-League this time with the Wisconsin Herd (NBA G League averaging 14.5ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 76.7%. He produced 28 points against Maine and the Raptors and made his NBA debut on March 25th in a 117-106 win over the Chicago Bulls playing 3 minutes. ‘I remember coach Bud calling my game. It was great checking into the game. I was able to play loose and have fun. I remember having to guard Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot. I was trying to do everything I could to show that I belong’, remembered Bonzie Colson Jr.. In 6 of his 8 games, he only logged 4 minutes or less, but in two games he received ample minutes and showed that he belonged 100% in the NBA putting up 15/16 stats against Atlanta and 21%10 stats against Oklahoma. ‘I started both games. I remember guys like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Tony Snell, Kris Middleton and Pat Connaughton being excited for me and giving me the confidence. It was a great experience’, stressed Bonzie Colson Jr.. In a roster that was stacked with so much talent and experience, it wasn’t easy for him to find good minutes. He never had a face to face conversation with head coach Mike Budenholzer concerning playing time. ‘I was thankful for the opportunity and being able to play in a system where I could play my game and enjoy it. I just tried to do the best I could and stay ready. You never knew when your number would be called’, said Bonzie Colson Jr..

The American was very fortunate to have so many great players around where he could soak up as much as possible. One of those guys was Spanish legend Pau Gasol. Gasol was injured and played only 3 games for the Bucks but traveled with the squad. They both had a special relationship and an extraordinary duty while on the bench. ‘Pau is my guy. He is such a great guy. I picked his brain a lot and I learned a lot. We were always talking about the game on the bench. We also helped the coaching staff. He couldn’t move so well so when he saw something on the court we had a system on how that would be delivered to him. It was a long chain but it reached coach Bud. Pau told me information and I gave that to Tim Frazier who gave it an assistant who then told coach Bud’, remembered Bonzie Colson Jr.. It was also cool and beneficial having his ex Notre Dame teammate Pat Connaughton by his side during his Bucks stay. ‘Pat is my guy. He is a real leader. Everybody loved him on campus. He always believed in me and kept me motivated and ready when I wasn’t playing at the start of my NCAA career. In the NBA, I picked his brain. He gave me the ball for my first NBA field goal. We are brothers and always check up on each other’, stated Bonzie Colson Jr.. He is obviously very grateful for getting the opportunity from the Milwaukee Bucks to showcase his skills in the NBA, but also knows that there are a lot of factors that determine if a guy can get that NBA chance or not. ‘At the end of the day the NBA is a business. There is so much beyond your control. You never know what is on the mind of a GM. You can only control what you can control. Never complain, but just get better. You can only control your own actions and do the most you can to get into that situation to get a NBA job like having work ethic, being dedicated, always asking questions and being motivated’, warned Bonzie Colson Jr.. In the summer of 2019, he played NBA Summer League with the Milwaukee Bucks averaging 13.0ppg, 5.8rpg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 69.6%. Despite having a good summer, he didn’t return to the NBA. A two way deal was up in the air, but overall teams were unsure about him. So he decided to come overseas, play well and hopefully get back to the NBA in the future.

He lists NBA legends Jordan, Kareem, Lebron, Shaq and Kobe on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore first club overseas was the well known Turkish club with Darussafaka Istanbul (Turkey-BSL). He demonstrated in two competitions that he didn’t have many adjustment problems on the court playing 16 Eurocup games averaging 10.8ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 38.4%, 3PT: 45.9%, FT: 84.9%; and played 23 Turkish BSL games averaging 12.2ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.4spg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 90.0%. Even if he was able to shine on the court, his mentality had to get used to being somewhere else other than the NBA. That the NBA is the only thing mentality is something that many Americans bring to Europe. Some falter while other like Colson are able to cope and adjust. ‘It was tough being away from home, but great to be in a new culture and meet new people. But as a kid I always wanted to be in the NBA. When I got overseas, it was a big reality check. I found out guys were really good here. I had sort of an NBA ego. But I’m a humble guy by nature and understood right away that I still need to work on my game more. It was a great experience and I’m still learning today’, warned Bonzie Colson Jr.. He also was extremely fortunate to have American Jarrod Jones as a teammate. So often the veterans can serve as being a vital mentor for those young Americans being overseas for the first time. ‘Jarrod was like a big brother for me. He taught me the ropes of playing overseas. I always picked his brain. He taught me that you need to grind each day and just taught me to be a pro in Europe’, remembered Bonzie Colson Jr..

Let’s fast forward to 2021. Bonzie Colson Jr. continued to grow as a player in Europe and had a fabulous season in France for SIG Strasburg. The organization played for the French Pro A title and lost in the semi-finals against Asvell and reached the Basketball Champions League semi-finals losing to Spanish club Burgos. With COVID still wrecking havoc around the world, he wasn’t able to do as much exploring off the court, but was able to focus more on his game. He was well aware that SIG Strasburg are like the Buffalo Bills of the early 90’s. The team then led by head coach Marv Levy reached 4 Super bowls losing each one. SIG Strasburg have reached 5 finals since 2013 and lost each one. ‘For this club each day is about what we can do to win the title. Everyone has been great and I have nothing negative to say. We work day by day as hard as we can to be as successful as possible. We want to keep building on from the past and build a new legacy’, stated Bonzie Colson Jr. in April 2021. When you look at the SIG Strasburg roster, you won’t find those well known American players, but that isn’t always a guarantee for success. Having the heart of gold and a chip as big as Shaq on your shoulder sprayed with sound abilities can at times be more valuable then being that ex NBA player. With Deandre Lansdowne, Ishmail Wainwright and Brandon Jefferson, the team has three guys that have had to pay their dues for years and still are very hungry and not satisfied yet and have that unremovable chip on their shoulder. ‘I really look up to guys like Deandre and Brandon. They came from D-2 programs and now are in a top league in Europe. You really have to take your hat off to them. With their work ethic and dedication that they bring and to see where they are now is something that not many can say they have done. It is motivation for all. Ish is my guy. He is a great player and person. We room and often talk about our college days. He is always pushing everyone in practice. Every team should have a guy like him. They always come to work with a smile on their faces. They are an inspiration for all’, warned Bonzie Colson Jr..

The American last watched The Return of The Jedi is a player that is undersized and compares his game as a mix between Draymond Greene, PJ Tucker and Jared Dudley. Scoring and rebounding is as easy for him as it is for Clint Cappela to haul down a rebound, but his biggest strength on the court is simple. His ability to use his size, wing span, speed and awareness to his advantage at both ends of the court. This is something that teams have continued to witness this season, but at a lot higher rate and consistency than last season. That coupled with being able to shine playing with grit which is in his identity until the last whistle is something that will continue to carry him far in his career. He continues to work on his game. He wants to have the opportunity to also to defend the 1-2 positions and continue to improve his awareness on defense, get over screens and improve his shooting. His game continues to grow especially with the aid from guys like Jarrod Jones and Deandre Lansdowne. His defense has grown overseas and he has the game to continue to climb the ladder as there are 2 leagues that definitely will be on his mind this summer when it’s time to think options for next season. ‘It will be an interesting summer. My two goals are the NBA and the Euroleague. We will see what happens. I can’t be worried about the future, but now I need to stay focused and hungry’, warned Bonzie Colson Jr.. His overpowering season in France and the Basketball Champions League where he averaged 18/5/2/1 in both competitions should open up many doors for him. He didn’t reach two of his goals as he signed with up and coming club Pinar Karsiyaka in Turkey, but will play Basketball Champions League and have another opportunity to show the basketball world that he has the game to play at the highest level. While for me it will be compelling to see when we have our third meeting? I definitely would like to see him in person again before possibly seeing him spray his outgoing personality somewhere on the big or little screen playing that special role as an actor.

Vincent Bailey (198-F-91, college: LMU) is a 29 year old 198cm forward from Port St Lucie, Florida playing his eighth professional season and first with Team FOG Naestved (Denmark-BasketLigaen). He has played in many countries including Germany, France, Belgium, Morocco, Luxemburg, Peru, Switzerland and Iceland. He spoke to germanhoops.com prior to playing in the Karls Cup in Rostock.

Vincent thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with Danish team Team FOG Naestved (Denmark-BasketLigaen). How blessed do you feel to have been able to keep playing the game you love despite COVID?

Thank you I really appreciate it. I’m grateful for each opportunity I receive to play the game I love for a living, despite COVID.

You were in Switzerland during COVID. How did you experience everything around the Pandemic? What was the most challenging thing that you had to encounter in these rough times?

It was bit overwhelming at times. Not being able to have access to physical training centers, having to quarantine for 10 days if a player contracted COVID and also the isolation of not being able to be as social as are use to were all challengers.

With all that you experienced off the court, how do you feel did COVID make you stronger as a man?

I could say it made me stronger, but mostly more aware that nothing is promised in this life and that we should cherish every day we have here on this earth and be thankful for those around us at all times.

For some reason I never interviewed you again since you played your second season in France. It has been a long time and you have been in countries like Belgium, Morocco, Luxemburg and Iceland. Has time flown and what have you enjoyed most about your basketball journey in the last 6 years?

What I’ve enjoyed most is the journey itself, I’ve learned a lot about myself and also the development of my game . I’ve experienced several countries and three continents, I went through ups and downs and came out a better person through all the trials and obstacles of this overseas lifestyle.

With team FOG Naestved you have joined an ambitious organization that is always in the playoffs but haven’t won a league title since 2005 and last won the cup in 2017. What were the main reasons for coming here?

The main reason was the opportunity to play near my Danish fiance while I play the game I love and help Team FOG work toward their goals as a club. This opportunity was not planned and it came out of nowhere as I was waiting on other opportunities to fall in place. It worked out for the best.

I can imagine you will have a big role and be a type of first or second scoring option. How excited are you to be able to show your abilities in a new country and team?

I’m very excited to play for Team FOG and coach Andy for whatever role he has for me. I like the type of basketball style he has put in front of us and the principals and standards he’s implementing on this team. Hopefully I can bring value to my teammates and the club, not only as a player but as person.

What kind of player is Vincent Bailey today in comparison to your rookie season in Vechta? How has your game grown over the last 7 years?

I’m more mobile and versatile than I was my rookie season. I’ve increased my ball handling , shooting and play making abilities at the 4position. Defensively I can switch out on any position 1-5 and guard at a good level. If you watch the film you can see the difference from year one up until now.

You are turning 30 in September. Are you in your prime now and what kind of player will Danish fans see in 2021-2022?

The Danish fans will see a more polished well balanced Vincent Bailey in this upcoming season. I want to put my teammates in great positions to score as I will continue to draw the defense in the midrange area and also making plays in transition and defensively causing matchup issues. We will take it a day at a time and trust our progression during the pre season.

Welcome back to Germany. You will be playing against ambitious pro A team Rostock and Eurocup team Hamburg Towers. How motivated are you to compete against the quality of these teams?

It’ll be a great opportunity to play against high quality competition in Germany. We are looking forward to the challenges ahead to help build our team for the up coming season.

I know you have a big chip on your shoulder. How do you handle the whole situation? You had great seasons in Germany and Belgium and after that I was always amazed that you didn’t get jobs at higher levels. How has that affected you mentally over the years?

You know, it’s been quite an up hill battle and I feel the same as you do. Mentally sometimes it has been draining but I am a resilient soul, I won’t fold. The valley is just as important as the mountain top.

You played with veteran shooting guard Chad Timberlake last season who has German BBL experience. What was it like playing with such a big time vet like him who probably also has a chip on his shoulder?

It was great playing with a Vet like Chad. I learned a lot from my brother and I appreciate him in all aspects of life.

You played a season in Iceland with Thor Thorl. What kind of an experience was the game and seeing the beauty of the land there?

I enjoyed playing at Thor with great teammates. For me it was a bit difficult with the darkness of Iceland and that’s why my time there was cut short and I took a deal back in Switzerland with BBC Monthey during December break.

With Boncourt in Switzerland you played with young German Robert Zinn. What memories do you have of his game? He took a very unusual route for a German player going to Switzerland.

Robby aka ‘Zin Master’ lol. He is a high IQ player with good shooting ability. I enjoyed playing with him at Boncourt.

You also played a season with Residence Walferdange (Luxembourg-Total League) playing 29 games averaging 21.2ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 69.6%. What kind of an experience was it dominating the league. Luxemburg is usually a stepping stone for unproven Americans to make the next step.

I feel like my entire career so far all I have been doing was proving myself. I just want to enjoy the game I love and bring value to any team I’m a part of. It’s a draining cycle to be doubted over and over again and prove people wrong. I enjoyed Luxembourg on and off the court, it’s where I met my fiance the first time and also met some great people who I’m still in contact with today.

You also got experience for top team Faith US De Rabat in Morocco. How do you remember your time there?
Morocco was a eye opener for me, and honestly one of the best experiences I had outside of basketball living. The country is warm with nice people who treat you like family. It was totally different than I expected. I also met one of my closest friends out there Dennis Mavin for the first time. He also played in Germany
You had a very good season with VOO Wolves Verviers-Pepinster (Belgium-Scooore League) averaging 13.2ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 52.6%, FT: 71.7%. I thought after that season you should have gotten a chance in the BBL in Germany. Did you ever have interest from German BBL teams?

Never.

Your ex teammate from Vechta Chase Griffin is still playing. Did you appreciate his personality or sniper qualities most?

Most definitely, chase is a great guy. I respect him and his leadership. His shooting ability is elite.

Dorian Pinson played at Lincoln Memorial the season after you left. Do you remember him coming in your senior season for a visit. He tragically passed away this year in a drowning accident.

Rest In Peace Dorian. I met Dorian while he was attending LMU. After he started his pro career we would train at LMU during the off season, pushing each other to be better. Dorian was a strong smart dedicated person who could inspire anyone to go after what they wanted in life. He definitely will be missed amongst his blood family and LMU family in Harrogate, TN.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Dennis Mavin, Stephan Bradford, Ahmad Smith, Jalen Nesbitt, Zach Lewis

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore with current or past heads?

MJ, Lebron , Kobe , Magic

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

My opinion is just to respect greatness. We all have a goat of each era.

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

Hahah they should have definitely left it alone, but I respect the effort.

Thanks Vincent for the chat

Christopher Miller (192-G-93, college: Salem) is a 28 year old 193cm guard from Brooklyn, New York who is playing his seventh professional season and third with 9: VfB 1900 Giessen Pointers (Germany-Regionalliga). He has had experience in countries like El Salvador and Bosnia. He recently played for the South Shore Monarchs (TBL) playing 8 games averaging 22.4ppg, 5.6rpg, 4.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 83.3%. he began his basketball career at Clinton Community College and also played two years at Salem University (NCAA2). He spoke to eurobasket before signing with Giessen about basketball.

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

Thank You for having me on. I am in route to Giessen at the moment. Basketball has always been a blessing I’m just happy to be playing at a high level.

It has been more than two years where we last had an interview. Has time flown in that time?

Yes !!For sure, it doesn’t even feel like 2 years. For the most part I’ve been busy playing and coaching. All that plus the Corona pause . It felt like I blinked twice and its 2021.

Talk a bit about how you experienced COVID in the last year and a half? What were the biggest challenges for you on and off the court?

During the beginning of Covid I was in China Coaching a Basketball Academy. I came home for vacation and wasn’t allowed back in the country. It’s been tough to find work because every thing was shut down. It was also tough to stay active. The free time was great for a little while but it was just a difficult and confusing time overall.

With everything that you saw off the court how do you think did COVID make you stronger as a man?

Absolutely. This pandemic taught me what was most important in life. I had a lot of time to reflect on my life so far and really separate the negatives and the positives and setting my goals for the future. This year and a half really opened up another level of hunger for me.

It has been more than two years ago since we last spoke. You last played for the South Shore Monarchs (TBL) playing8 games averaging 22.4ppg, 5.6rpg, 4.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 83.3%. What kind of an experience was it playing in the TBL?

The TBL is a great League. The commissioners work very hard to keep the league entertaining and successful. I am happy to be a part of it. The competition is high level also . There are lots of Ex NBA G league overseas guys who were playing this year so every game you had to be ready . As I said I have another level of focus so my goal was to prove that I belong And I also won second team all conference. So it was a good season for me.

What was it like coming home and playing professional in the States after being overseas so long? Was it frightening seeing how the game is played with less team play than overseas?

It felt great to finally be in a league that’s professional state side . My life could be the same for once and I really enjoyed my family attending the games. None of them were able to see me play a professional game in person before this summer, so I was happy with that . The game play was more like a NBA setting and it was actually a lot of team play and sets being ran. I was able to show a lot of my point guard skills and I took a lot of the things I learned over the years in Europe and applied it here.

You dominated the TBL. How important was it playing well and gaining self confidence for your next challenge?

I was blessed to be a part of a club who believed that I can lead them. I see post pandemic basketball as a second chance and my goal was not take it for granted. I attacked every game and I am very happy with the results. I am ready for the next challenge and to prove I can do this at the higher levels also.

In the 20-21 season you played for the first time in Bosnia with KK Radnicki Gorazd (Bosnia-A1 Liga FBIH). What kind of an experience was it playing in the country Bosnia? How do you feel did your game grow there?

Playing a few years in Germany I have always had Bosnian born teammates who all had this tough High IQ Style of basketball. I always knew if we played against one of those guys it would be a long game. Playing out there I learned about the culture and how basketball is very important to them I began to understand my former coaches and teammates from the area. I am happy I got to play in another country in Europe and adapt well to their style while also staying true to my personal game.

Did you have some kind of neat experience there off the court that you will never forget that showed you how Bosnia is as a country?

I lived in a small mountain village which had a river running right down the middle of it. The views were amazing Going to the top of the mountain and just seeing the cities and experiencing the food was great for me.

How do you feel are you a better player now then you were when you dominated in El Salvador? It seems like you are an even more complete player now.

I feel like I have gotten older more mature and know my game as opposed to before trying to please everyone. Now I know what I can do and I know more of how to play. I always felt I had the talent and sometimes wasn’t taken seriously because of the levels I played in, but as a guy who started from the bottom leagues I guess it’s part of the game. I am happy this year I played and dominated in 2 different leagues against higher competition.

You continue to be a very potent defender. How do you feel have you grown in this area and do you feel like you can still make the next step as a lock down defender?

Defense was my first specialty. When I was younger that would be the only way I could score sometimes. I always feel there is more room for improvement. Also coming back to Germany I was number 3 in the Country in steals, I have to get that number 1 spot . I have a goal of being a lock down defender and I would love to get Defensive player of the year.

On what area’s of your game have you been concentrating on most in the lab as you always continue to get better as a player?

I have been focusing on showing I can be a scoring (Point guard ) not combo guard I have been working on tons of screen and rolls, getting more comfortable at the point guard and helping others get shots while staying aggressive looking for my own offensive game. After playing this long it’s more about IQ and being as efficient as possible for me.

You played two successful seasons with the Giessen Pointers that really helped give you a name in Germany. Do you still have contact to teammates and head coach Daniel Doer?

Well me and coach Doer were teammates my first year there. We have always been good friends and stayed in contact. I respect him as a coach and I am happy he transitioned well into life after a player. I just hope he doesn’t believe he can beat me in a midrange shooting competition.

What memories do you have of German guard Lucas Meyer? He has played in the Pro B in Germany and is a very talented player that should continue to get an opportunity at a higher level down the road.

I see a lot of myself when I was younger. Talented player dedicated trying to get it all together and being told to wait his turn. I am super happy for him he figured it out and will continue to get better. I always knew he was a top talent now it’s time for everyone else to see. I believe he can be a key player in the higher leagues.

I was always wondering why you didn’t continue to play in Germany? How big is your itch to play in Germany and play in the Pro B a league where you could surely shine?

You know I would love to play Pro B and higher. I had a few looks to play before the pandemic but after all those spots were full. I felt I did enough to get respect from the higher leagues in Germany with all I have done. But I will never know. You right now I am focused on Giessen Pointers and showing myself how much better of a player I have become. I will get to the higher levels one way or the other.

What is the next step for you? How was the transfer market and where do you want to play most?

My goal is and always will be to play the highest level I can play. I will continue to push for that and I honestly feel this is my time to show that. I am happy with what I did so far with winning the championship scoring titles etc. But I’m not at all satisfied.

You have without a doubt been the most successful player to come out of Ron Howards tour in the last years. Do you still have contact to him and do you ask him for advice even today?

I always appreciate Ron. We speak very often he still gives me advice and help. I am glad I made the decision to come to his tour. He has a great thing going with his program and I am happy to be a part of it.

Did you watch the 2021 NBA finals. Should one call Chris Paul a chocker? Four times his team led 2-0 in the playoffs in his career and he couldn’t get the series win.

I honestly thought he would take the championship. I learned a valuable lesson from Chris Paul and it’s to stay the course and not celebrate to early . Each series he starts off locked in but gets too comfortable and lets his foot off the gas. I wouldn’t call him a chocker but I was really disappointed to see that outcome.

Will the Lakers win the 2022 title with Westbrook and Anthony? How much does having had so many great players on his side hurt the legacy of Lebron James? Shouldn’t he have won more titles by now?

I think A healthy Brooklyn is the Champion. I personally do not think Lebron and Westbrook will work. It does not hurt his legacy He can retire today and still be a first ballot hall of famer.

Has there been a worse free agency for a player the way Dennis Schroeder went from getting a four year 80 million deal with the Lakers to only 6 million form the Celtics?

I believe he will do great this year in Boston. He brings what they lack. I know the money is a crazy difference but I feel that overall he will have a great season. Also these guys are MILLIONAIRES. So I’m sure he will be just fine.

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

I honestly didn’t because I heard too many bad reviews about it so I decided to leave my memory with the original movie.

Thanks Chris for the chat.

Tags : CHRISTOPHER MILLER, SOUTH SHORE MONARCHS, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Older German football fans will never forget the embarrassment of the 1978 German national team losing 3-2 against Austria in Cordoba, but for former Frankfurt Skyliner Tyrone Ellis, he will always have very fond memories of the Argentinean city. It was September third, 2017 as Ellis was hanging out in Cordoba as an assistant coach for Stan Van Gundy with team USA at the Fiba Ameri Cup and they were in the final against Argentina that had a very boisterous and rude fan base supporting them and not letting the Americans feel welcome. It was the second half, and it looked like Argentina would walk into the spring sunlight with the Gold Medal. Granted Argentina had a nice team with two NBA players Nicolas Brussino, and Nicolas Laprovittola and future NBA players Facundo Campazzo and Gabriel Deck not too mention legend Luis Scola, but he got a DNP in the game. Team USA was assembled with a roster of C type players, most with very minimal NBA experience like Darrun Hilliard, CJ Williams, Jameel Warney, or Marshall Plumlee. The only guy who had had real NBA experience was Reggie Williams who had played parts of seven seasons in the big show. It didn´t look good for Team USA in the waning moments in Argentina, but the Argentina squad hadn´t had a guy by the name of Reggie Hearn on their radar. The American actually wouldn´t make his NBA debut until February 5^th, 2018 against Portland where he would sink his only NBA points with a trey and only two more games would follow. Team USA was down by 20 points, but Reggie Hearn turned the game around leading them to the Gold Medal with a 81-76 victory. “He was absolutely our main guy in helping us get the win. He played absolutely phenominal. I´m one of his biggest fans”, warned Tyrone Ellis. He scored 14 points in the win and hit key three´s down the stretch. He went on to average 10,0ppg in the competition and shot a whopping 47% from the parking lot. I reach Tyrone Ellis on a Tuesday night only 6 hours after 2004 BBL champion Fraport Skyliners announced the signing of Reggie Hearn. He last coached Hearn with the Stockton Kings a few years ago. At the moment Ellis is taking a break from coaching and giving back in other very meaningful ways. He is an inspirational teacher at the moment helping individuals get through difficult moments. “I´m so much more than just a basketball coach”, stressed Tyrone Ellis. After some small talk and mentioning I had beat cancer, we begin to talk about Reggie Hearn. At that moment, I didn´t know yet just how much of a connection that Ellis and Hearn actually had. “Reggie is very similar to me, just more mature than when I was with Frankfurt. He is a real class act. He will represent that organization very well. They will have absolutely no issues with him”, warned Tyrone Ellis. The Fraport Skyliners are in very good hands with Reggie Hearns as he is similar to Tyrone Ellis.

                Reggie Hearn was born on August 14^th, 1991 in Fort Wayne, Indiana and got his first connection to basketball at Fort Wayne Snider high school. He then played at Northwestern(NCAA) from 2009-2013. His first two years there must have felt like a total calamity as he played only 32 games and a total of 72 minutes. It seemed like he had nobody covering his back except for teammate Michael “juice” Thompson who would play for the Fraport Skyliners only a few years later. Thompson was a massive supporter of Hearn who saw the diligent and hard work that he would put in. He was playing his butt off on the second team and showing time in and time out that he could play with the starters. He finally got his opportunity as a junior as Northwestern suffered key injuries. Hearn played 61 NCAA games in his last two seasons and averaged 7.6ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 63.4%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 78.7% as a junior and took another step as a senior averaging 13.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 73.5%. In his junior year he scored 20 points in a 74-70 win over Illinois and as a senior had some big wins against Purdue netting 26 points and 23 points against Miss Valley State. He helped the school reach the NIT Elite 8 and NIT Sweet 16. It wasn´t only hard work that helped him mature and let his game grow, but it was taking advantage of the opportunity when injuries kicked in. “Making the most of the opportunity also helped him reach the NBA. He has always been ready for everything. No matter if he was a starter, came off the bench or mentoring players. He is always ready for whatever God has in store for him”, commented Tyrone Ellis.

            The American began his professional career in 2013 and in 8 professional seasons played 284 G-league games and three NBA games for the Detroit Pistons. He remained 4 years with Reno, but also got further experience with the Idaho Stampede, Grand Rapids Drive, Stockton Kings, South Bay Lakers and G-League Ignite. He shot 40% or better from down town four times including twice with Reno and once with Stockton and South Bay. In his eight year career in the G-League he averaged 11,0ppg and shot 40% from outside making 619 three´s in 1540 attempts. Tyrone Ellis got a front row seat seeing his game progress and mature more under his guidance. I would of expected Ellis to describe him to another type of player, but for him Hearn plays like a Harrison Barnes. “Reggie is a jack of all trades. I played him 1-4 when he was with me. I even had him at the 5. He is so strong and is a sacrifice player. He knows when to make the big plays whether it is getting a stop, hitting a big three or taking the charge. Reggie is just very solid”, warned Tyrone Ellis. Hearn´s biggest strength is his shooting, basketball IQ, defense and playing the pick and roll, but he has more. “He makes mistakes, but the big difference is that he learns from them. He has great leadership qualities on and off the court”, expressed Tyrone Ellis. He will definitely put up points this season, but also will help Frankfurt on the defensive end as he can be an impact defender. “He can guard all positions. But he defends best at the positions three/four. He is really strong which gives him an advantage on offense. He is shorter than most bigs, but they won´t bully him. They can´t guard him on offense”, stated Tyrone Ellis. It is no secret that a hidden strength in his game is his rebounding. He averaged 4,2rpg in his 8 year G-League career being only 196cm. “He gets in the paint and really bangs. He is really good at frustrating guys and getting them out of their comfort zone”, said Tyrone Ellis. It will be a lot of fun to watch Hearn as he is a real three point sniper. Frankfurt last had a real lethal sniper with Andrew Rautins in the 2013-2014 season. Frankfurt will see a lot of that swish sound this season. “He is most valuable when he plays at the four. He slips out of screens so quickly and shoots the ball so fast. He can catch the ball and shoot it right away. He won´t come down. He can stretch the floor and create so much space. He is so lethal shooting”, warned Tyrone Ellis.

            Tyrone Ellis doesn´t only marvel about his game, but also about his character as that is even greater than his game. His character allowed him to have such a strong G-League career as he was able to make the most of every situation. It is never easy trying to be consistent with a team and get in a healthy flow when you have teammates left and right playing only for their stats and that NBA contract. “Reggie started games, but also didn´t. When he came from the bench that was because I got directions from management. He never complained but was always a total professional at all times. It is really difficult to average a lot of points when your not an NBA or assignment guy. He found a way to be consistent and that had to do with his charachter”, warned Tyrone Ellis. People in basketball Frankfurt may be a little skeptical that Reggie Hearn can make an immediate impact because he has no prior overseas experience, but Ellis is very confident that his ex player will make the adjustment without difficulty. “The whole process will be easier for him now then it was for me. He is married. I pushed him already a long time ago to go overseas. I hated to see him take so long. But I understand that he wanted to keep trying for the NBA. It is everybody´s dream to get to the NBA. He had had a taste of the NBA and wanted more. He will adapt with no problems”, stressed Tyrone Ellis. One has to wonder why Hearn didn´t play more than 3 NBA games or had a longer NBA stay. In Hearn´s season he was teammates with Gabe Vincent who averaged only 8,0ppg and wasn´t better than Hearn, but he is in the NBA now with the Miami Heat. There are simply too many excellent players and too few NBA spots. “Yes that is how it is. Every player´s journey is different. It worked out for Gabe. He had the perfect coach in me to help guide him. When Hearn was there, Gabe averaged only 8 ppg, but the season after 23,0ppg coming off the bench. I attacked his mind. Gabe was the perfect player. Why didn´t Chris Williams or I make the NBA? We all had our own destiny. Reggie is good enough for the NBA. It´s all about timing. Look at Mike James. He destroyed the Euroleague for three years. Now he is looking for a NBA job. We cut him when he was in Phoenix. Every journey is different for each player. It is the same with coaches”, commented Tyrone Ellis.

            There are three experiences that Ellis will never forget having with Reggie Hearn. The first was his incredible showing in 2017 in the final of the Fiba Ameri Cup game win over Argentina. The second and third times had nothing to do with basketball. “I don´t remember if it was in Toronto or Chicago, but Matt Jones and Reggie invited me into their room for a Bible study. That was profound. We had incredible conversations about God and marriage and the third was when Reggie invited me to hear him preach a sermon. That meant a lot to me. He knows how much of a strong believer I am in God. I don´t remember my clutch three´s or dunks in my career, but winning the title with Frankfurt and these experiences with Reggie I do”, warned Tyrone Ellis. The Fraport Skyliners don´t only have a gem with Reggie Hearn´s game, but off the court, the guy is the real deal. He got the ultimate compliment from Tyrone Ellis, a compliment that many brothers of sisters will never dare to say. “He is the type of guy that if you have a sister, you would want her to marry. How great of a character he is shows that I speak even more highly of that then his game. He is very consistent of being a great teammate and being a student of the game. He is every coach´s dream. He is a phenomenal person”, warned Tyrone Ellis. What can go wrong for the Fraport Skyliners when you have a second Tyrone Ellis?

Julius Thomas is a German head coach who is running Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf in his second season. He began his coaching career with NBBL (U-19) team Team Bonn/Rhondorf and then was an assistant with the Dragons Rhondorf in 2019-2020. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

Thanks for having me! I am currently preparing my team in Bad Honnef and Bonn. I am very happy that the Dragons Rhoendorf are finally back on the court and I am excited going into the upcoming season.

Before we get to basketball, I have to ask you how you have experienced COVID-19 in the last year. What has been the most challenging thing about living life with it?

Definitely keeping a positive mindset both at work and at home. I was one of the lucky coaches able to continue with my job as I joined the BBL team of the Telekom Baskets Bonn shortly after our season got suspended. However, having family members and friends who could not work in their usual way and who could not experience the social interactions that they are used to really affected me.

With everything that you have seen with COVID-19 how do you feel has it made you stronger as a man?

I don’t think that the pandemic has a lot to do with my masculinity 😉

How excited are you finally begin the 2021-2022 Pro B season. How tough was the last year with no regionalliga or NBBL games in your life?

We are super excited heading into the Pro B season. As I said before, I had a huge opportunity diving into BBL basketball, but seeing my Dragons-guys not being able to play was a tough thing! I am very glad that now we can finally showcase in ProB.

The Dragons Rhondorf are constructing a new team. Talk a little how that has been coming about. How difficult is it in general to build a roster during COVID?

Recruiting this season was even tougher than in the last summer since we did not have any data on NBBL or JBBL games and players. We as a program that takes pride into developing young talent rely on those NBBL games to scout potential players that could fit our idea. Luckily we were still able to recruit very exciting German youngsters such as Nicolas Buchholz, while we managed to re-sign most of last year’s players.

The Dragons Rhondorf are going the youth route again. How much more risky is this in the Pro B. How will it be different this season than in the Regionalliga with the development of players? Will there be more pressure for the young Germans to produce?

The whole idea of our program is to have young talents in positions where they have to produce. We really feel like making a big contribution to not only local, but also German basketball by taking talents out of their comfort zones and kind of force them into bigger roles and team-leaders. Is this a risk? Definitely. But from our point of you this is what ProB-Basketball should be all about. Helping young players reach the next level through playing in big roles.

Can you talk a little about how the young Germans continued to work on their game in the last year?. There were no games. How important was the extra work in the gym for their development?

They all found ways to have individual workouts and worked hard on their skills. However, playing 5on5 and playing games is the thing that helps those guys the most. The lack of those games will take some time to make up for.

How was it for you being a coach in the last season with no games. You must of watched many many videos. What did you concentrate on most in terms of your further development as a coach?

Watching videos was definitely a huge part during the pandemic. I think I haven’t missed a single Bayern Munich game this season. My main focus was to change my way of teaching and understanding defense.

With a season with no games, you can’t put huge expectations on the players, but how vital will it be for Pal Ghotra to make another step as a player?

The most important step for Pal is to get healthy. We want to support him on that way and we are convinced that he can have a big contribution if he gets back to the shape he was in before his injuries.

Another key player will be Oshane Drews. What will you be expecting of him and how did you see his development in the last year?

Oshane is to me one of the most talented young guards in Germany. We are expecting a lot of him this season and we are pushing him more and more into a Point Guard role, where he can both finish himself and creating for others off his drives.

Two guys I’m really excited about are the big German talents Ralph Honnou and Nicolas Bucholz. Did you work with them this summer? What can we expect from them in the Pro B where they should get decent minutes?

Both Ralph and Nicolas joined at the start of the preseason and will be important factors for our team. Ralph’s defense gives us a much needed boost against experienced and physical Pro B guards, while Nicolas’ passing and scoring abilities will be crucial for us on the offensive end

How did you experience the off season of Ousmane Ndiaye? Did he get stronger and what are you expecting of him?

Ousmane is getting stronger and stronger week by week and will hopefully be ready to make a big impact very soon!

In the Pro B teams are always keen on getting good production of their imports. Will Will Christmas be the next Curtis Hollis?

If he is Will Christmas then we will be fine

Christmas seems to have an excellent character. He finished school before turning pro last season. Did you have any talks with him?

Will is a very intelligent and interesting character, which is why I am excited to have him on our team. He will provide creativity as well as toughness, which is an interesting combination.

Talk a little how the relationship will continue with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. Will their be any new candidates to get minutes with the BBL team that didn’t get in in the last years?

I hope that all of our eligible players will try hard to get an opportunity in the BBL and I am convinced that they’ll get one once they are ready for it.

What is your biggest wish as a head coach this season? What would you like to see happen with the Dragons Rhondorf this season besides getting many wins?

I would like to help build a team which excites our fans and to create a Basketball team Bad Honnef can relate to.

How vital is your relationship with associate coach Yassin Idbihi (208-C-83, college: Buffalo)? How has it grown during the hard times in COVID?

Yassin is in my opinion the key factor to the Dragons’ culture. He incorporates the love of improving young talents. That is why it is so crucial that he is close to the team all the time, providing the team and me with great advice on a daily basis.

What was the last movie that we saw?

Probably an old Tarantino movie.

Thanks Julius for the chat.