I remember the early spring of 1985 as if it was yesterday. Playing football, basketball, street hockey and baseball with my best friend Tom then were things we did on a normal basis and pretending to be players as we made kids dunks on a lowered basket was the kind of entertainment that kids got back in the day. I vividly remember that during the 1985 NCAA tournament always being out during the day or under the flood lights playing and when the 2 teams were set for the NCAA final with Georgetown and Villanova, I had no choice to be the 2 guards David Wingate and Gary Mclain while my friend Tom who physically was a lot bigger was able to play the 2 stars Patrick Ewing and Ed Pickney. Of course, we put the ball down and watched the final and it was one that the world would never forget as Villanova did the impossible beating Georgetown which today still stands as one of the greatest NCAA final upsets in the history of the league. The reason why I brought up this story was because of the great late coach Rolle Massimino who coached the Villanova team to victory. The New Jersey native coached an incredible 43 years with 19 at Villanova. When I prepared an interview for American Stanley Whittaker, the name of Massimino popped up and bingo my childhood sprang up into my face again. Whittaker had the pleasure to have had coach Mass coach him at Keiser(NAIA) right before he unfortunately passed away in 2017. Whittaker is one of so many guys journeying around Europe that have their own separate special story of struggle as well as success and a lot of why the American is where he is today dominating the Austrian first division is Massimino. Massimino has had such a gigantic effect on Whittaker on and off the court. Not only on the court at Keiser, but also off the court which delayed the professional career of Whittaker for years. “I promised my late great coach Rollie Massimino “may he Rest In Peace” that I would get my bachelor’s degree. He put me in position where I was able to do an additional year at Keiser University and get my Bachelor’s. So I graduated in May of 2018. But after that, I think it took me so long to get a professional contract because people didn’t think I was worth an opportunity. I didn’t play Division 1, I didn’t really know who to look to for help and assistance, so that’s what I feel is the reason it took longer for me. Having the opportunity to be coached by coach Rollie Massimino was a blessing. He helped my game so much, he taught me so much about the mental aspect of the game. I was able to think the game at a much higher level with coach Mass. Being cerebral is the biggest impact coach Mass had on me especially in my transitioning into becoming a professional. But most importantly, the impact he had on me off the court is what I cherish the most. He instilled so many real life lessons in me, helped me out in so many ways, he was much more than just a coach to me! And I am forever grateful and thankful for coach Mass”, warned Stanley Whittaker. Coach Massimino passed away on August 30, 2017 and Whittaker is extremely appreciative that he will always have one specific special memory with the man who had a huge role in shaping him to being the man and player he is today. “Coach Mass and I shared a bunch of moments together on and off the court. During my recruiting process after I finished up my 2nd year in JUCO, Coach Mass came to my home in Philadelphia and visited my family and I. This was my first time seeing him in person after my visit to Keiser University. This moment was special because as busy as Coach Mass was he took the time out of his day and came to visit my family and I. I truly knew then that he really wanted me to join his team in Florida, so that was a very cool moment we shared together, and my family got to meet him so that made it much more special! My mother tends to ask me do I still remember when Coach Mass came to visit, so it’s great to know that she still holds on to that moment”, remembered Stanley Whittaker.

            Stanley Whittaker was born on October 21ist, 1994 in Philadelphia and attended Nueva Esperanza Academy. Like so many guys balling in Europe now, the talent level of guards in general is so high that there just aren´t enough spots in higher college levels that guys have to pay their first dues in JUCO. But for young guys out there today, there is always hope as there have been countless guys who have come from JUCO and climbed the ladder slowly and others quicker like Jordan Brangers who played in the German BBL 2 years ago and recently signed with Greek top division club Larisa. Whittaker who meditates 1 hour a day and has Greece at the top of his wish list to visit is going a similar path as Brangers, but he had to start somewhere and that was Frank Phillips College (JUCO) where he balled from 2013-2015 amassing a total of 56 JUCO games. He made an impressive early basketball development averaging 6.5ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 38.5%, 3PT: 17.9%, FT: 54.1% as a freshman and as a sophomore averaged 13.0ppg, 4.8rpg, 4.6apg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 71.8%. One can see how much his offensive game improved as his scoring, three point shooting and free throw shooting profited from the experience. So many guys I have talked to always report that JUCO was a very tough experience, but in the end very worthwhile and it wasn´t any different for the American. “, JUCO was a grind, it was really tough. You assembled a bunch of guys with the exact same mission which is trying to go to the next level, so there isn’t really a great deal of comfort. You know your time there is short so it’s like, get yours while your here kind of attitude and approach. Well at least that’s the impression I thought of it. But in all, JUCO help shape me into the player I am today. It made me grind harder, it made me go that extra mile, so for that I am forever grateful and appreciative for it. JUCO helped my game because it allowed me to play with many players that were “the guy” coming from their respective high school and maybe other programs. So it allowed me to understand egos and play with a bunch of individual talent on one team”, remembered Stanley Whittaker.

            His hard work, diligence and patience paid off as he was able to move up a level to Keiser. It wasn´t the NCAA, but the NAIA is maybe only the 4th best college level, but also one that has produced enough great players that have made the jump to the professional ranks. He played at Keiser(NAIA) from 2015-2017 playing a total of 65 NAIA games and needed no adjustment period as he was able to find his role and had a great 2 year career. At Keiser he helped lead the Seahawks to the 2016 NAIA Elite 8 and 2017 TSC tournament semi-finals. “Finishing in the Elite 8 at Keiser was a pretty great memory and I still remember that season up until this day. It was special, we had a special team and that was a special year. Of course I wish we could’ve went further and maybe won the championship because we surely had a nice opportunity, but yes that was a great time and a memorable moment in my college career”, stressed Stanley Whittaker. On the personal side, he had two very strong seasons as he played 34 games as a junior averaging 15.4ppg, 8.2rpg, 6.3apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 67.8% and as a senior played 31 games averaging 13.8ppg, 5.6rpg, 6.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 21.7%, FT: 70. 1%. In his second to last NAIA game, he registered a rare triple double scoring 20 points, grabbing 11 rebounds and dishing out 13 assists in the 78-65 victory over J & Wales. This is a contest that he still looks back fondly at today and could imagine getting one at the pro ranks. “That game was special because it was a playoff game, win or go home. And also it was in our gym. So that in itself made the game special, I wasn’t sure I had a triple double until my coach told me after the win. That made it a little bit better, but I was more happy with the playoff win and we were able to advance to the next round. I would like to get a triple double as a professional. Although I don’t tell myself “go get a triple double,” but if that will help our team win and it’s a possibility I would be happy with that result”,said Stanley Whittaker. The American who lists his parents as the most influential people in his life learned to develop an important attribute at Keiser which was consistency. The Florida native was able to score in double figures in 56 of 65 games and was very content how his game continued to develop in his 2 years there. “I think that my game in general just matured more at my time at Keiser. I think I was very patient in poised in understanding our offense and understanding my attack points. Picking and choosing my spots on the floor, knowing the defensive of game plan from studying film helped my game grow a lot”, expressed Stanley Whittaker.

            Instead of turning pro right after his last season at Keiser(NAIA), he held his word to coach Massimino and finished his degree. A big problem for any player especially for the lesser known ones playing at lower college levels is that the longer time you don´t have a professional club, the harder it will be to find a team. On top of that, he was just out of college and had never gone through the difficult process of finding a team. He was finished at Keiser in the spring of 2017 and didn´t begin his professional career until the 2019-2020 season in January. Those 2 plus years is a very long period of being inactive and could have cost many guys a professional career, but Whittaker never gave up after getting his degree, but just kept grinding and grinding and accepting the basketball process. “My last years before turning professional I was spending a lot of time with family, but the goal to become a professional remained the focal point. I spent countless hours working on my craft daily. I prioritized staying in the best shape possible just because you don’t ever know when that opportunity will come. I spent time training younger kids and so I worked around the game just to keep the joy and aspiration. And there was never a time where I wanted to give up, I always told myself that God wouldn’t bring me this far just to give it up”, warned Stanley Whittaker. Before heading overseas in 2020, the American who will never forget his one on one battles with Keiser teammate Brice Jenkins had the once in the lifetime opportunity and had a work out with NBA team Orlando Magic in the summer of 2018. There he was able to see what DJ Augustine had as a player while battling him on the floor. “DJ Augustin is just an extremely crafty, smart well experienced player. He seen all the different defensive coverages so he knows what’s his next move almost immediately, so I think the difference between our games is his experience at playing the highest level in the world”, remembered Stanley Whittaker. He began his rookie season with Jonava Jonavos (Lithuania-NKL) playing 6 games averaging  9.3ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.7apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 36.4%, 3FGP: 22.2%, FT: 66.7%. He scored in double figures in 3 games including 20 points against Telsiai and was close to a double double with 11 points and 9 dimes in the exciting 93-91 win over Ereliai Mazeikiai. He showed that he needed no real adjustment period coming overseas. “I believe my wake cup call as a rookie was really just adjusting into being a professional in general. I don’t think the distance bothered me any I embraced the opportunity and was grateful. But just transitioning into being a professional was the adjustment and wake up call for me”, commented Stanley Whittaker. Being the lone American on a team overseas can be tough, but when you walk into a new situation and see another American, it often changes a tough situation into a good situation. He was fortunate to have teammate Kahlid Thomas who had an exceptional career at Rider(NCAA) and took him under his wing. “Khalil is my boy. Our relationship was great when we shared time together in Jonava. He helped me a lot for my short time there on and off the court. We are able to relate to one another as well and we are still good friends and are in contact regularly to this day”, remembered Stanley Whittaker.

            The American who lists his NBA Mount Rushmore with the following legends with Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Lebron James and Allen Iverson finished last season with UBSC Raiffeisen Graz (Austria-BSL) suffering a tough 95-93 loss to Arkadia but showed his versatility steering 11 points, 8 boards, 4 dimes and 4 steals in the losing cause. As we fast forward to November 2020, one thing hasn´t changed and that is that COVID-19 is still alive. It has been a very difficult time for everyone and every player has had their own story how they have survived the COVID-19 crisis. “My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who has been affected from this devastating virus. But yes, the virus made things much more difficult for me. I was here in Austria from the end of January to March. The virus cancelled our season so was sent home, back to America. In America, things were tough. Maybe for the first month I wasn’t able to have access to a gym so I had to use other resources to workout and stay in shape. Shortly after that initial month, I was able to get gym access and get right back into my sanctuary”, remembered Stanley Whittaker. Some guys had it easier finding the correct resources too stay in shape and continue to work on their craft, while others had a more tough time. As back breaking and punishing the last 7-8 months have been, the whole COVID-19 crisis has in a way also helped players see another side of life and take positives out of a burdensome time. “I honestly learned a lot about myself during these times. Our world being in a pandemic is something I’ve never seen or been through before. So just with that, it was something I had to adjust to. Life isn’t normal anymore, but I learned that I was much more patient than I thought. Throughout this entire pandemic, it made me much stronger, it made me understand a lot more. Because for a while now it’s just been basketball, basketball & basketball for me, so being able to take a step back, cherish more time with my family and loved ones, it gave me a greater appreciation for life and love”, stressed Stanley Whittaker.

            The American who probably would be a sports agent today is loving his life in Austria and one would think it might have been a tough adjustment coming from the warm Florida to the cooler Austria, but in between, he had some practice with a cooler type of climate “Florida to Austria is an adjustment solely based off the climate. However, after I graduated from college in Florida, I spent most of my back home in Philadelphia where the winters are really cold and the summers are really hot. So being back in Philadelphia prepared me for the cooler temperatures here in Austria. I am still learning about Austria and it’s culture, but thus far it’s been pretty good. Here in Graz, it’s really vibrant. The people are nice, the food is good and it’s always pretty active. So that in itself I appreciate”, said Stanley Whittaker. Only a few years ago, he was very far away from a professional career, but now is a top player in the first division Austria and knows that you can´t take anything for granted and enjoys every second of being a part of UBSC Raiffeisen Graz. “It’s truly a blessing to be able to further my career and continue to have the opportunity to chase this dream of mine of being a professional basketball player. I’m grateful to be able to be in this position here playing for UBSC Graz, they gave me an opportunity at the beginning of the year, and extended their hand and wanted me back so I’m blessed and humbled for that. As you stated, this is my first full year as a professional, so I hope we are able to gather some more wins and turn this organization around and be a part of some history for this team”, warned Stanley Whittaker. In the Austrian BSL league, there are 10 teams and at the moment UBSC Graz are in sixth place with a 3-4 record. On paper the team coached by Slovenian Ervin Dragsic is a lot better than it´s record and it´s only a matter of time before this team will take off. The team lost 3 of their 4 games by a total number of only 7 points “I think our team has a bunch of talent. We were assembled at the beginning of the year before Covid hit and that’s when we noticed that we can be a special group. And with the addition of a couple pieces to our team made us better. We are a confident group that prides ourselves on being selfless and playing together. We have some versatility with our group. And as far as our goals, we’re taking it day by day, game by game just looking to get better each day that’s how we honestly go about work here, but making the playoffs are in our eyesight and think we have a nice chance at doing so”, warned Stanley Whittaker. The team has proved early on that it isn´t shy of putting points on the board averaging 88 per game, but so far they haven´t been a solid unit on the defensive end where they are allowing 86 points at the moment. “We have to be much better defensively. We can score the ball pretty well, as I stated we have a bunch of talent, but if we don’t defend we won’t win. Defensively, I think we can come out with better energy and intensity each game. It starts with our energy, but also attention to detail, we tend to have lapses defensively as well and the teams here makes us pay each time. So energy and more attention to detail we have to hang our hats on especially more so on the defensive end”, stressed Stanley Whittaker.

            The club has solid support at the American spots with 203 cm forward Nick McGlynn who played at Drake(NCAA) and had double double stats last season with T71 Dudelange (Luxembourg-Total League), 190cm guard Jacob Ledoux who played at the University of Texas Permian Basin (NCAA2) and is in his second season with UBSC Raiffeisen Graz, 203cm forward Sam Daniel who played at Florida Institute of Technology (NCAA2) and brought experience to Austria form Brazil and England and 198cm forward Kendall Pollard who reached the NCAA Elite 8 with Dayton and despite 3 seasons of scoring in double figures in the NCAA couldn´t get a better job than one in the G-League and Iceland. The American who loves chicken Alfredo feels very at home with his many American teammates and sees himself as the leader despite not having played with as many professional teams as they have. “Most of my other Americans teammates have more pro experience than myself. But I feel like I have become a leader here for our team. That goes to show the trust and respect that my coaching staff and teammates have for me. Giving me the opportunity to lead is always a role I will embrace, but I am truly humbled and appreciative for it as well”, said Stanley Whittaker. They haven´t been teammates long, but Whittaker and Pollard have shared a special relationship so far. Both guys have gone a similar path in that it has been quite a few years since school and both haven´t garnered so much professional experience yet. Especially Pollard who only has Iceland and the G-League to show in the last 4 seasons. “Kendall is a great guy and a great player. He is one of the smartest basketball minds I’ve played with over the years. I definitely spoke with him about his journey after he finished school at Dayton. It’s a bonus to have a teammate or teammates you can relate to or can relate to you, that makes the chemistry better in my opinion”, added Stanley Whittaker.

            Whittaker is a 183 cm point guard that doesn´t like to compare his game to any of the NBA stars, but rather studies film for hours and hours in order to soak up as much detail as possible which he can add to his game to help refine it. “I watch all the point guards in the NBA as well as Europe, so I study them to learn, therefore I try to take a little from them each and add it to my game in some way. I always watched a ton of Chris Paul, I love Kyrie Irving skill set and his ability make difficult shots. Damian Lillard confidence is unmatched, and Westbrook intensity is relentless. I love watching Mike James, Shane Larkin, Mike Green and Facundo Campazzo. I am not able to compare my game to any of those guys, but I do study and like watching all of them compete. I have two point guards that just got drafted who I like a lot and they are Malachi Flynn and Payton Pritchard”, said Stanley Whittaker. He is a guy that can fill the stat sheet with ease as he proved back in the NAIA with a triple double and just that point guard that has that keen basketball IQ that knows at the split of a second when to create and when to go alone. But not only offensively is he a delight to watch, but also on the defensive end where his non stop focus to detail and man allows him to be a menace and disrupt opponents offenses at anytime. “I think some of my strongest assets are my ability to create and play make, not only for myself but for my teammates as well. I pride myself on the defensive end so much, so I play defense with an edge. I try to limit my opponent from being comfortable let alone scoring. With me I think defense is all effort and will. But also studying film helps me a ton and puts me in position to be able to get some of them steals, but also not just steals for me, it allows my teammates to get some of them as well. I limited my gambling because it hurts more times than it helps especially when I don’t succeed when I do gamble. So I just anticipate and manipulate the defense more so now”, expressed Stanley Whittaker.

            At the moment the American who last watched his all-time favorite movie Life with Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence is taking the Austrian BSL league by storm being second in scoring and assists and first in steals currently averaging 21,0ppg, 5,4rpg, 7,6rpg and 3,4spg in 38 minutes. One may think that he is a player that is always looking at his stats, but that isn´t the case. He is just trying to help his team come out on top after 40 minutes. His filled stats rather imply that he is trying to do everything possible to get his team in the best position to be successful. “I don’t base my game or style of play on stats. I try to go out there and play the game the right way and try to get our team in the best possible chance at winning games. I think there are many ways I can be better and improve overall, but doing it in a team setting where it is helping our team and not hurting our team. I don’t have to stat chase at all. The way I play the game is team sensitive and I play within the structure of the team”, added Stanley Whittaker. He knows that he has to continue to get better in all area´s of his game to be able to continue to climb the basketball ladder. One big focus at the moment is his outside shot. At the moment he is shooting at a 31% clip, but isn´t satisfied and knows it will improve. “I definitely see myself as becoming a better 3 point shooter. I don’t believe the percentage shows how well of a 3 point shooter I am or can be. Actually watching the games and seeing the selection of 3 point shots I get plays a part. However, some shots didn’t fall in early on in the season but I definitely can and will improve from behind the arch. I work daily on my long ball and I am a confident shooter as well so I will be better”, warned Stanley Whittaker. He also knows that becoming that ultimate leader is another area that he wants to improve on so he can have that better touch with helping his team be more successful “Some steps I am taking to be a better leader is being a better listener. I think that is the first step with me, if I’m able to listen more and be more understanding that would help me lead better. Understanding personnel helps me be a better leader, leading isn’t a part time role it’s something you have to do consistently. And finally accountability, making sure I am held accountable as well as holding my teammates and everyone that’s a part of our team success accountable, I think that’s major as well”, warned Stanley Whittaker.

            Whittaker´s main focus now is getting UBSC Raiffeisen Graz (Austria-BSL) out of it´s rut and also to help them finally win some nail bitters. What happens down the road is unknown, but if the season ended tomorrow, he would surely have offers from two thirds of German Pro A teams on the table as well as some offers from easyCredit BBL teams. He isn´t far from Germany and has the league in the back of his mind. “The German BBL is a pretty good league, I hear a lot about it here since I’m in Austria and Germany isn’t too far. However, it would be a great blessing if that opportunity was to present itself in the future”, said Stanley Whittaker. The great thing about Stanley Whittaker is that he is no near from being satisfied with his current career status This guy still has a very long and bright future in front of him and won´t stop grinding to continue to become the best player that he can be. He has something special that not every player has. He has that heavy chip on his shoulder and that will remain until the day he retires. “I always played with a chip on my shoulder. I was a “late bloomer.” I always been overlooked, and I always got passed up on. But understanding my process and how much time I devoted to getting better and working hard I had faith that when the opportunity presented itself for me I would have to take full advantage of it. My mom always told me to remain humble. So that chip I have on my shoulder will always remain, regardless if the circumstances are good or bad”, warned Stanley Whittaker. I only remember Rolle Massimino from TV and when he was a head coach at Villanova while Whittaker had the distinct pleasure of knowing and learning from him for 2 years at Keiser. It has been more than 3 years since the death of Rolle Massimino, but I´m sure that the 1985 NCAA champion has taken a very special note about his ex player Whittaker and is having a ball watching his progress from above. “I honestly think this is my calling from him as he is looking down on me. I believe he would tell me that he is proud of me and that he loves me. I think he would tell me that he is proud of the decision I made to go back to school and get my degree. Because he would always tell us “the ball will stop dribbling,” so therefore, having that degree under my belt can help me when I am finished up with basketball. I also think he would congratulate me on remaining true to myself as well as my goals and never giving up. Even when times were extremely dull and tough. He will credit my perseverance and dedication and tell me “Stanley I am proud of you babe”, stressed Stanley Whittaker. Massimino is a champion and even if Whittaker is still looking to becoming that first time professional champion, he is also a champion like his friend Massimino, because he earned a degree from Keiser and that is something nobody can take away from him.

It is a late Wednesday night in Germany at about 10:30pm as I reach ex NBA player Darrun Hilliard of CSKA Moscow in his hotel room in Munich, Germany. The American is playing his third season overseas and has the double load of playing Euroleague and VTB League and this week has 2 Euroleague games. For some it is but for the ex NBA player remembering the wear and tear of the NBA, playing 2 games within 48 hours can be tough especially with the long trips from Moscow, but having that team plane makes the wear and tear of travel make it somewhat easier. In the last weeks, I had the pleasure of talking to some ex NBA players like Derrick Williams and Anthony Brown who have made the adjustment to playing overseas after having seen it all in the NBA. Sometimes one might expect ex NBA players to be a bit reluctant to speak about the big show and reminisce about the good old days, but surprisingly most guys really cherish having had the opportunity to have laced them up in the worlds most elite league. But if there is one topic where guys won´t hesitate for a split second to muse over is the legacy of the black Mamba Kobe Bryant and what kind of an impact he had on them. The tales that a Derrick Williams and Anthony Brown had were priceless and lines like “I wasn´t thinking farewell but getting my shoes signed after his last game” or “I remember Kobe joking he would get 82 points and then dropping 60 in his last NBA game” are special fond memories and shows just how much Kobe was loved by his peers. It wasn´t any different for Darrun Hillard. When I mentioned Kobe, I could feel his eye brows rise higher than the tower of London and his smile get wider than the Panama-canal through the phone. His first remark about Kobe was, “I´ll never forget my Kobe story”. I believe you could ask every NBA player who ever dueled against Kobe Bryant what their favorite 1-1 moment was with him, you surely would get a reply from every player and get enough stories to produce the next basketball thriller. Hilliard was a rookie with the Detroit Pistons and played only his 3^rd NBA game against Kobe Bryant who was in his farewell season and the way he described the moment was as if you were there Live. “It was huge playing against him so early in my NBA career and with him retiring that season. I had been a huge Kobe and Lebron fan growing up. I had been too young to have been a Jordan fan. A normal procedure with the Pistons was that usually the rookies could go to the circle before the game to shake hands with the opponents captains. After a while the veterans don´t want to do it, so they send the rookies. It is a special thing for the rookies to do. But because it was the last game of Kobe, the veterans all went to the circle not the rookies. Well that didn´t hinder me from going to the circle. I made my way to the circle, shook Kobe´s hand, gave some love and then got kicked out. It felt like it lasted 1 hour, but really it was 30 seconds. I remember seeing an interview after where Kobe said that he remembered this kid shaking his hand and then disappearing. This is my absolute favorite story from the NBA that I had”, stressed Darrun Hillard. It was also so refreshing to see how disappointed he was that he has never been able to find that interview of Kobe Bryant talking about him. Sometimes I truly felt like a little kid in a candy story being able to interview these high class players, but in this Kobe Bryant moment, I totally felt Darrun Hilliard being that little kid in the candy store.

                Darrun Hillard was born on April 13^th, 1993 in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. He first had the basketball in his hands at age 5, idolized Allen Iverson and was also a football fan and enjoyed watching the Philadelphia Eagles practices while getting to the facility on his bike. He attended Liberty High School in Bethlehem and had a lot of success there. Even though using his right hand for many things like eating, writing and throwing a football, he learned to shoot the ball lefthanded. He developed a deep bond to his coach Mike Bachman and averaged 18,0ppg and 6,0rpg as a junior and as a senior averaged 19,7ppg. He led his team to the PIAA State semi-finals in his junior season scoring 26 points in the loss to Penn Wood and reached the second round of the PIAA tournament as a senior. All in all, he scored 1,413 points in his high school career finishing second to scoring to Warren West. He was named the Express Times player of the year and was named to the First Team Class AAAA. His stellar high school career earned him a full ride to Philadelphia school Villanova(NCAA).

                The American played at Villanova(NCAA) from 2011-2015 playing a total of 132 NCAA games. He had serious growing pains as a freshman as he was supposed to have been red shirted, but head coach Jay Wright decided against it needing him aboard because of a rash of injuries. He played 29 games averaging 4,8ppg and 2,4rpg. He scored in double figures in 4 games and had back to back 13 point efforts against Missouri and Pennsylvania. Things looked up in his sophomore season as he started every game and his minutes soared from 18 to 28 and he played 34 games averaging 11.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.6apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 73.9%. He scored in double figures in 19 games including 25 points in a win over Syracuse and 22 points a piece in wins over Purdue and Marquette. He ended the season strong hitting North Carolina with 18 points in a loss in the NCAA tournament. In his junior season he averaged 29 minutes playing 34 games averaging  14.3ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 71.8%. He made a big jump in his outside shooting getting over the 40% plateau. He scored in double figures in 30 games and had a career high 30 points in a victory over Marquette. He netted 11 points in a OT 82-79 win over Providence where he hit a crucial trey at the end to help seal the win. He scored 13 points to eventual 2014 NCAA champion UConn at the tournament and won various awards like Big east most improved and was a All-Big 5 Second Team selection.

The club continued to grow each season and had their best in Hillard´s senior year as he led the Wildcats to an amazing 33-3 season. He averaged 14,3ppg, 3,1rpg, 2,1apg and 1,8spg while shooting 38% from down town. He had some big games against Syracuse scoring 23 points in a OT win, had 24 points in a victory over Creighton and had one of his finer moments against Butler achieving 31 points on 8 three´s in an exciting 78-75 OT win where he hit the game winning trey with 1,5 seconds remaining. This was probably his finest individual game, but not most memorable moment. “It is really difficult to say that this game was my most memorable considering how many trophies we won. There were so many memorable moments in my career. We were at ground zero freshman year and to see to where we got to senior year is amazing. I don´t like to bring attention to myself to a game like this. Many accompanied me along the ride to success”, remembered Darrun Hilliard. He scored 27 points in his last NCAA game, a brutal 71-68 loss at the hands of North Carolina State in the round of 32. He finished his NCAA career with 1,511 points, 18th highest in school history; 400 rebounds; and 176 steals. He ended his NCAA career winning many awards like second team for the Sporting News, was an unanimous All Big east First Team, was a All District V First team and was Big 5 player of the year. The American has a lot of respect for head coach Jay Wright who pushed him, but Hillard´s belief that his coach didn´t believe him is what helped him evolve into the player he is today. “Freshman year was very tough. It was a big transition going to another school and not knowing if I could make to senior year. I always had this feeling that coach Wright didn´t believe in me. I wanted to prove him wrong and that was the driving force that kept me in school and helped me do well. I put my mind to getting better each day and not to quit, but to finish that marathon”, warned Darrun Hilliard. The American was fortunate enough to have played with future NBA players like Daniel Ochefu, Ryan Arcidiacono, and Josh Hart, but it wasn´t one of these that had the biggest impact on him, but rather a red shirted freshman who never played a NCAA game with Hilliard. Hillard was most impressed with current Phoenix Sun and 2 time NCAA champion small forward Mikal Bridges. “When he got to Villanova, he was physically a child. I saw him grow and blossom to the player he is today. He was a dog at both ends of the court his junior year. I saw what he could be. He got into the weight room , ate correctly and took everything serious. I´m really proud that he was able to full-fill his potential. He is the only guy that I really follow in the NBA”, stressed Darrun Hilliard.

In the summer of 2015, the 198cm guard was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the second round at #38. He played NBA Pro Summer League in Orlando (Detroit Pistons) playing 5 games averaging  9.4ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 28.8%. He would go on to play 2 seasons in the Motor city playing 75 games. In his first season he played 37 games averaging  4.1ppg, 1.2rpg, and also played 3 D-League games with the Grand Rapids Drive averaging  25.7ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.7apg, 2.3spg. In his second season with the Pistons he played 38 games averaging  3.3ppg, and also played 4 D-League games with the Grand Rapids Drive averaging 23.5ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.5apg. With the Pistons, he scored in double figures in 6 games including 13 points against Toronto twice and once against Memphis and  had 11 points against Orlando and Atlanta. He had the pleasure of having been teammates with guys like Andre Drummond, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Steve Blake, Tobias Harris and Marcus Morris, but one guy he won´t forget is assistant coach Tim Hardaway. “Tim was a coach, but he still had that competitive edge that us players had. If you didn´t do your job, he would let you know right away. He is a Chicago boy and always talked trash. What I´m really happy about having seen is him being the coach. Most guys just know him from his cross over moves, but I knew him as a coach. You could always pick his brain. He got the best out of you”, remembered Darrun Hilliard. Another thing that he has that not every NBA player can boast to their grand children is having a positive record against Lebron James. He has a 2-1 record against the 4 time NBA champion and will never forget being on the same court as his idol. “I remember my dad and I seeing Lebron play in high school. It was so crazy. He was 18 years old and already so good. Then there I am on the floor with Lebron in the NBA. This was the first time where I realized that I had to separate being a fan from being a competitor. I had always been a fan, but now I was on the other side. I had to get him before he got me. It wasn´t easy, but this meeting with Lebron taught me a valuable lesson that nobody is bigger than yourself”, warned Darrun Hilliard.

                In his third professional season he split time between the  San Antonio Spurs (NBA): playing 14 games averaging 1.1ppg, and played also with the Austin Spurs (NBA G-League) playing 40 games averaging  20.5ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 83.6%. His brief time with the Spurs is another one that he will cherish forever. If shaking hands with Kobe Bryant for a moment was like a kid in a candy store then being on a squad like the Spurs that featured legends like Tony Parker, Manu Ginoboli, Pau Gasol, Kawhi Leonard and Ettore Messina must of felt like a 8 year Barcelona boy stepping on the field at Camp Nou and not believing his eyes seeing 100 Messi clones all doing their tricks with the ball. He wouldn´t trade his short time with the Spurs for anything in the world. “My locker was next to Pau Gasol´s, so I obviously talked to him a lot. Kawhi talks a lot more than people think. The biggest thing I got form him was trying to apply his greatness mindset. He was hurt when I was there and the club was trying to get him back in shape. We were together a lot and played a lot of 1-1 and 3-3 to help him get back in shape. The guy is obviously physically gifted, but his mentality is bar none. There is a reason why he is the player that he is”, stressed Darrun Hilliard. Plus not to forget, he was able to learn from a master mind who loves the European game with head coach Gregg Popovic. In a way, he got an early introduction to European basketball from Popovic. “Coach Pop did prepare me, but honestly the great players there did more. It was Tony Parker and Manu Ginoboli´s last years, but I was also pretty focused on helping my G-League team win the title. With my time with the NBA Spurs, I tried to eaves drop on every conversation as best as I could like the kind of mind set each player had. I didn´t take one moment for granted, but tried to take everything I learned and apply it to life and the game. I was very meticulous about what I observed and just tried to see how they carried themselves as best as I could. The most important thing that I gained from coach Pop was his saying appropriate fear. You should never fear anyone, but remember to have that sense of respect. If you take your opponent for granted, then you can be beaten”, remembered Darrun Hilliard. Of course when your only 27 years old and have that typical competitive mind set, thinking about the NBA is always on the menu, but the reality sometimes is different. “I´m still young and it is still a dream. I´m a competitor and always want to play at the highest level, but I´m not striving for it at the moment. I´m very happy being a member of CSKA Moscow and would never take this opportunity with this team for granted”, warned Darrun Hilliard. He saw everything in the NBA and like most other players knows it will always be strictly a business before anything else. “You can get traded at any time of the day. At one moment your talking with the G.M and in the next moment read on Twitter that you got traded. Guys will be upset that is natural. Important is that you should never take the NBA for granted”, warned Darrun Hilliard.

                In the 2018-2019 season he came overseas joining Kirolbet Baskonia Vitoria playing 35 ACB games averaging  10.8ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 42.5%, FT: 76.3%, and played 34 Euroleague games averaging 9,4ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 77.5%. It isn´t always easy for that ex NBA player to come over and play their first season overseas well. The American came into a totally new situation, but had a very solid rookie season in the Euroleague and ACB despite having a difficult adjustment period. “I really struggled at the beginning. My wife and I were constantly on the phone. I came over with totally different expectations. I thought that every game would be like a Final 4 atmosphere with the crazy crowds from Panathinaikos. I just didn´t know the ins and outs of the Euroleague. Playing for Baskonia was a real challenge, but I was fortunate to have been able to play for 2 great coaches. I am happy that I made it through the struggles and am very grateful that Baskonia gave me my first opportunity overseas”, stated Darrun Hilliard. In The Euroleague, he scored in double figures in 16 games and memorable games like netting 19 points in a 97-73 blow out win over Maccabi Tel Aviv and had a strong playoff series scoring in double figures in 3 of the 5 games against his future employer CSKA Moscow. In the ACB, he scored in double figures in 20 games registering 24 points a piece in wins over Joventut and Fuenlabrada and had 21 points against Breogan. He also split against FC Barcelona scoring 18 and 15 points.

                He joined CSKA Moscow in 2019 and is currently playing his second season with them. Last season he played 27 Euroleague games averaging 10.6ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 79.6%, and played 15 VTB games averaging 11.9ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT: 79.2%. In the Euroleague he scored in double figures in 16 games including 22 points in a win over Valenica, 21 points in a win over Alba Berlin and Panathinaikos and 20 points in a win over FC Bayern Munich. In the VTB League he scored in double figures in 9 games including 24 points in a loss against Khimki and 21 points in a victory over Tsmoki-Minsk.  Last season the season ended abruptly for the 2 time Gomelsky Cup Winner on account of COVID-19 and as he was relaxed in his hotel room in Munich, talk concerning COVID-19 was a normal procedure for him as well as it has been for the whole world. “Dealing with this whole COVID-19 has been a big adjustment and you just have to be more aware and be cautious. We don´t have the freedom to move around as much, but overall despite all the problems, I´m so glad that I can still play the game. CSKA has done a great job having the team plane and making everything as easy as possible when we travel. The only difference to the whole traveling now than before Corona is more testing and paper work”, added Darrun Hilliard. This is now his second season living in Moscow that almost houses 12 million people and despite having lived in big US cities like Philadelphia, San Antonio and Detroit, it has been a big adjustment calling the Russian city his second home. “I come from a small town and at times it can be overwhelming. I would compare Moscow to the hustle and bustle of New York city. There isn´t a lot of sunshine in the day and the sun goes down early. CSKA have done a great job providing us with drivers and nannies, but I´m a home body anyway. I´m always home recovering”, expressed Darrun Hilliard. On the court, CSKA Moscow haven´t been great, but fairly good, but it´s still early in the season. They have been very strong in the Euroleague siting in position 3 with a 6-3 record and in the VTB have a 4-2 record and are in 2^nd place. The club has done a good job keeping part of the roster intact with top Euroleague guard Mike James, Americans Will Clyburn, Daniel Hackett and Joel Bolomboy and German national player Johannes Voigtmann while adding some spice to the roster with Georgian Tornike Shengelia and Russian Nikola Milutinov. “The team is different in many ways and it also feels like a new team. Many guys are still getting adjusted which shows in certain points of the game.  We lost some key guys from last season, but I feel that we can be special. We want to build on from the season we had last season and get the right chemistry to go all the way”, warned Darrun Hilliard. The club lost a key player in Mr Euroleague Kyle Hines, but also won a new face in versatile big man Tornike Shengelia. Even if many may think you could never replace a Hines, a Shengelia is a very special player and will make many in Moscow proud. “Both have special characters. Both are natural leaders and have that special aura with them. They both have the knack to do the right thing every time. On the floor Kyle won multiple trophies and off the court, nobody can say anything bad about him.  That speaks volumes about his character. It was a huge blow losing him. I wish him the best in Milan and hope his family loves Italy”, commented Daruun Hilliard. The American has seen it all having experienced so much in the NCAA, seen Kobe and Lebron in the NBA and now become a solid Euroleague player. He definitely isn´t the player he was once at Villanova or in the NBA or before boarding a flight to Spain in late summer 2018. He has come a long way and has taken on an interesting development and stretched his game to new heights being able to call himself a real European player. “I´m really thankful for Jay Wright allowing me to grow and evolve at Villanova. He was patient with me and allowed me o grow each year. I had a different and bigger role each season. In the NBA, you just have to be in the right situation, be patient and have a coach and style that you can flourish in. I´m glad I could show my game in the G-league and help win a title while improving my game. When I came to Europe, I really didn´t know what to expect. The natural thought process of a player coming overseas from the NBA is to put up big stats in Europe and return to the NBA. But it doesn´t work like that. I slowly began to figure out my game with Baskonia. With CSKA coach Itoudis has done a good job always finding new ways to challenge me. It is obvious that I have a different role than a James or Clyburn who are our heavy hitters. They need the ball. I want to be able to play like them. I know that I won´t get a crazy amount of shots like they do, but I just have to find my spots and take advantage of each situation. I just have to be efficient and control what I can control meaning being ready to take shots and to knock them down”, warned Darrun Hilliard. The sky is still the limit for him. He has NBA experience and can prove at any time, he can be the best player on the floor in a Euroleague game or a ACB game. If he will ever return to the NBA is unknown, but guys like PJ Tucker or Brian Roberts have shown it can be done coming from Europe. If he doesn´t get back to the NBA, he will surely carve a fine Euroleague career and whenever he does step into the circle before a game have those unending special Kobe moments. Perhaps a young player will have that ambition to sneak to the circle and shake Hilliard´s hand. Basketball dreams never end for any one old or young and won´t end for Hilliard either as he continues to play the game he loves overseas.

Shavon Coleman is a 28 year old 196cm forward from Thibodaux, Louisiana that is playing his sixth professional season and first in Germany with the SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels (Germany-BBL). Last season he split time with the Kangoeroes Basket Mechelen (Belgium-Euromillions League) playing 16 games: Score-3 (16.8ppg), Reb-5 (7.1rpg), 1.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 68.9%, then signed at Hapoel Unet Holon (Israel-Winner League) playing 9 games averaging 13.7ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 67.9%. he began his basketball career with Thibodoux High School an dthen played a season with Howard College, TX (JUCO). He then finished at Louisiana State University (NCAA) averaging 10.5ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.4spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 70.3% as a junior and as a senior averaged9.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.9apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 41.9%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 75.7%. He played his professional rookie season with Al Khor (Qatar-D1). He then played two seasons with Amicale Steinsel (Luxembourg-Total League) averaging 19.1ppg, Reb-3 (11.7rpg), 2.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 57.6%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 66.0% and averaging -4 (25.4ppg), Reb-2 (13.1rpg), 1.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 69.4%. In the 2018-2019 season he played with Dutch Windmills (Holland-Eredivisie) playing 29 games: Score-5 (16.7ppg), Reb-3 (8.7rpg), 2.2apg, Steals-5 (2.2spg), FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 76.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the summer of 2020 about basketball. 

Shavon thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been despite the whole COVID-19 effecting the world? 

I am currently in Germany right now and this is where I will be for the next 9 months playing. My summer has been great, I got the chance to go out to Israel and finish the season off with Holon so that was great for me.

How have you experienced the whole COVID-19 crisis in the last 6 months? From your season ending in Belgium to coming back and playing in Israel in July. How many Quarentines did you have to do and how did you survive? 

The whole COVID-19 has been a real challenge for me. It’s something that I never experienced but had to make the best out of the situation. I got to spend more time with my family than I usually get to do. The bad thing is that our season ended early when our team was playing great ball heading into the playoffs. When I went out to Israel I had to quarantine for 14 straight days without leaving the house was really tough.

How much did the last 6 months change your life and how much of a challenge was it finding the time and places to be able to stay in shape and be able to work on your game?

It didn’t change my life at all because I’m still the same person regardless of the situation. It was a challenge because nothing was opening to get in a gym to workout. I went out to buy a basketball goal and put in in my backyard to get shots up and did out door workouts in my backyard as well. So that kept me in a little shape.

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

COVID-19 made me realize how important family is and any day that person could be taken from you. I had to be strong for the people who count on me every day.

Congrats on signing with German team SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels (Germany-BBL). How excited are you to be playing in the best league so far in your career after having to pay your dues the past 5 seasons?

I am excited to be playing in the top league in Germany. I think it’s another challenge for me as a basketball player to be able to compete with some of the best players in the world. I belong in the top leagues I believe in myself and know what I’m capable of doing on the court.

Have you already marked the date on the calendar when you will play against your ex LSU teammate Keith Hornsby? Have you followed his career?

No I haven’t marked a dated when I will play Keith. I don’t look pass other teams and take one game at a time. But when we get to play each other it was be fun playing against a formal teammate from college. Yes, I keep up with all the guys I went to school with.

You stated in the club press release that you chose the SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels (Germany-BBL) because it is the right step in your career. What impressed you most in the early talks with head coach Silvano Poropat?

What stood out to me was that I would be playing in the BBL a league I always talked about playing in some day. I like a challenge and seeing where this team was last year I challenge myself to help this team climb up in the rankings.

How big is the chip on your shoulder? You have had a long way up the basketball ladder starting in Juco and really had a successful career being a top player in Luxemburg winning titles and showing your consistency in Holland, Belgium and Israel. Do you feel like having that chip ben a big reason for your success, because without it you probably wouldn’t have had the desire to always get better and move up.

I always play with a chip on my shoulders because I feel I get over looked so I always tell myself that I have to lay it all on the line every time I step on the court. Me as a person I always ask myself what can I do to get better as a person and basketball player. I love winning and would do anything to win games.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm forward that plays the 3-4, can score, rebound and is a very good defender. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I don’t really compare myself to nobody I just try to be the best version of myself.

You can do so much on the court, but what do you honestly feel is your absolute biggest asset on the court when you go to battle?

Not letting the person I am guarding score. When I can get a few stops that really gets me going.

You have always been a very good rebounder and really picked it up in Luxemburg. What has always been your personal secret to being successful at getting rebounds?

I always been a great rebounder at my size I think lol. It’s just something that you have to want to do. I always told myself if I could rebound I know I could get playing time on the court. So as a freshman in high school I made that something to do to see minutes on the court.

Free throw shooting continues to be a work in progress. Why do you feel has this been area that has been tougher for you to grow in?

It’s crazy because I shoot the ball so well lol but it’s just a mind thing you know. I just have to settle down and really take my time and knock them down.

On what area’s of your game have you been working on most this past summer as you get ready to compete in the easyCredit BBL a top league in Europe?

I been working more on my midrange pull up game.

Last season you began with the Kangoeroes Basket Mechelen (Belgium-Euromillions League) playing 16 games: Score-3 (16.8ppg), Reb-5 (7.1rpg), 1.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 68.9%. How much easier did a guy like Rayshawn Simmons make your game with his game? Did you have a special bond to him being he is also a guy like you that has been paying his dues as a player

Ray made the game real easy for me because we would watch film on where he could get me the ball to make plays. I know he was always someone I could count on in a game because we had that bond and connection together

You finished the season with Hapoel Unet Holon (Israel-Winner League) playing: 9 games averaging 13.7ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 67.9%. What kind of experience was it being one of the few players that was able to finish the season and not have fans?

It was a real great experience but I know not too many people were able to play in the summer. I got to play against some real good Competition and great teams. I got to see where my game was by competing against some ex NBA players and lottery pick players.

What kind of experience was it playing against top Euroleague team Maccabi Tel Aviv? You held your own with a double double with 11/10? Despite the loss was this still a special game for you as you proved that you can be as good as the opponents top players?

16. The experience was really great you getting a chance to play a Euroleague Team. That’s where I want to be one day playing with a Euroleague team as well. But to see that I could complete with those players only game me more motivation to get there. I just believe in myself.

Did you take the opportunity to find some chit chat with ex NBA player Amare Stoudimire? How special for you was it being able to duel against him?

Me as a player I don’t like talking to other players on the opposite team because I’m competing against them to win the game. I was always taught not to have friends on the court but I spoke with him after the game saying good luck and stay healthy.

How much of a bonus was it being able to talk championships with teammate Guy Pnini who has won 13 titles in Israel? You won 5 titles in Luxemburg and are hungry to win some more before all is said and done.

It was real good hearing the success Guy has had in his career. Always good to hear those great things, it makes you to go out and win more championships.

In 2018-2019 you had an exceptional season with Dutch Windmills (Holland-Eredivisie) playing 29 games: Score-5 (16.7ppg), Reb-3 (8.7rpg), 2.2apg, Steals-5 (2.2spg), FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 76.4%. How important was this season for you mentally coming off 2 explosive seasons in Luxemburg and then continuing to show you’re a-game and be successful in a higher league?


It was real important because I know I was moving up to a better league and wanted to show I can complete on any level I’m in. We were having a successful season because our team were winning but I was still able to perform at a high level as well.

You played 2 seasons in Luxemburg for Amicale Steinsel (Luxembourg-Total League) winning 5 titles. The percentage of pro players in Europe at the moment that can say they have won 5 titles or more is low. How do you feel did your leadership skills improve most in this time?

In Luxembourg I won 6 titles 2 super cups, 2 cup championships and 2 Total League championships. I feel I have always been a leader but winning those championships I know what it takes to get the job done. It’s the hardest thing to do but putting in the work and locking in is a big reason we were able to win those championships. Playing as a team and having roles got us those ships.

You played 62 games in Luxemburg scoring in double figures in 60 games and scored 20 points or more 35 times, scored 50 points once and had 40 points or more 4 times and 30 points or more 12 times and had 44 double doubles That is very impressive. Did you feel like a man playing with boys?

I felt like all the hard work I put into my game was paying off for me. I work extremely hard in the offseason and as you can tell the numbers I was putting up paid off.

You scored 50 points against Contern on 18-28 shooting including 10 three’s. Is there anything special you can still remember about this game that you will remember forever?

The thing I will remember the most about scoring 50 points was my team was able to get the win that night and everyone was happy to see me put on a great performance.

You played your rookie season with Al Khor (Qatar-D1). What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Qatar where you knew you were very far away from home?

My wake up call from my rookie year was it’s just not a game. People really feed their families from basketball and it’s not room for too many mistakes.

What was your coolist moment there off the court? Did you experience any wild parties in a palace?

The night life in Qatar was really great and I didn’t expect it to be like that at all. Most parties would be on the 45th floor and they get crazy in there lol.

You began your basketball career with Howard College, TX (JUCO). How important were these early years in your development? What was the most positive things that you gained from this experience?

My JUCO years were very important because that’s were my aggressiveness on defense came from. My coach was big on his players playing defense. I learned what it’s like to play team ball and have great chemistry.

You then played at Louisiana State University (NCAA) from 2012-2014 winning the SEC 6th player of the year and as a senior reached the NIT Sweet 16. How do you feel did your game grow most in the NCAA?

I feel my game elevated a lot once I got to LSU. I had everything I needed to help my game grow. Access to the gym and weight 24/7. Coaches spent a lot of time working with me to get better.

What memories do you have playing against Kentucky where you contributed 8 points. How satisfying was it being able to compete against one of the best basketball schools in the country?

The biggest memory I have against Kentucky was beating them at LSU on a snowy night.

How much of a pleasure was it playing with future NBA player Johnny O’Bryant and Jordan Mickey? How sure were you that they would reach the big show?

It was great playing with those guys in college. We all knew those guys would play in the NBA one day. The work they put in everyday and dominating every game like they did every night

How did head coach Johnny Jones groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Coach Jones let me be myself because he knew when I was on the court I was going to leave everything on the court.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Tim Quarterman?

Me and Tim never played 1 on 1.

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

To many players to name lol lot of tough players.

Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time? 


RayShawn Simmons, Billy McDanials, Johnny O Bryant, Jito Kok, Bob Melcher

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

MJ, LBJ, Kareem, Shaq,Kobe

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

Both all time greats in my eyes both GOATS.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Dark Night

Thanks Shavon for the chat.

One of the exciting aspects of any NBA Draft is exactly how much of a crap shoot it will be. The hype over the various NBA mock draft boards skyrocket days before the event and then seeing what last second decisions teams make concerning desired players or last second mega trades gives this special basketball night always a unique atmosphere seen only once per year. You obviously see the battle for the #1 pick and what big name will sit at the top, then you see how other big names rise or slide in the draft as well as observing what less known guys sneak into the second round and how many Europeans make the board. There are so many interesting tidbits surrounding the draft night and when you look to Germany that have given the NBA a new breed of players like Daniel Theis, Maxi Kleber, Dennis Schroeder Isaiah Hartensetin and Moritz Wagner with only the last 3 being drafted, there also have been other guys drafted that were unknown with guys like Szymon Szewczyk, Peter Fehse and Malik Badiane. The latter 2 had nice careers in Europe, but were total NBA draft pick busts. Another guy that made his break through with Rhein Energy Cologne was Marcin Gortat who carved out a stellar 12 year NBA career spanning 806 games, but not all NBA teams and Gm´s get that lucky and play the crap shoot correctly. Basketball life in New York was already tough enough until the club drafted well known European players Serbian Kristaps Porzingis and French national player Frank Nitlinka. The who´ssss and boo´s coming from the draft room were as active as James Harden is with the ball for 40 minutes per game. Ntilinka didn´t pan out as making a Knick fan into a believer is tougher than really believing a Harden can change anything in Brooklyn. At least Porzingis proved New Yorker´s and the rest of USA wrong with his game, but really American´s will never expect greatness even if they see it. It was the same early on with Luka Doncic. You have to wonder how big the who´s shouting was when Fehse and Badiane were picked but 2003 was a different time. A time with no social media and were mistakes like that were tolerated. But how loud will the who´s be when a guy like Curtis Hollis is selected in the 2020 NBA Draft? Hollis is crazy athletic guy that never played in the NCAA and only has JBL experience and a year in the German fourth division. But sometimes a promise from an NBA team or just incredible confidence is something that will help elevate a man´s confidence to a place not seen before. Hollis has a very interesting journey and has been training since February 2020 for every kid´s ultimate dream. He has been mentioned on no 2020 NBA draft mock boards, but believes he has a legitimate chance of hearing his name called. “. I feel like I’m intriguing to teams because 1 I’m a winner and all I want do is win. I feel like I have a lot in my game that translates to winning. Also my size, athleticism, ability to guard 1-5 , etc.  So hopefully they feel the same. I do think I’m high on some scouting reports though, but I could be wrong”, warned Curtis Hollis.

            Hollis is a 22 year old 198cm guard/forward from Arlington, Texas that began his basketball career at Mansfield Summit High School and then played a season of JUCO ball at Hutchinson Community College playing 34 games averaging  6.9ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 66.3%. He didn´t enjoy his experience particularly there for the simple fact that his coach had to give other guys more playing time due to seniority, but at the same time, the American also didn´t feel like he could train as much and develop as well if he had to balance school and basketball. That is why he chose to turn pro in 2018. He went an unusual path giving the new league JBL a shot, a league that had been born by Lavar Ball and dominated the competition averaging 29.3ppg, 11.3rpg, 5.3apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 21.2%, FT: 71.8% for the Houston Ballers. In the summer of 2018, he joined a USA select team that toured Europe and he promptly was discovered by ex German national player Yassin Idbihi after pouring in 40 points against Pro A club Baunach. He had the pleasure of being teammates with Lamelo Ball, a projected top 5 2020 NBA Draft pick and they were an unstoppable 1-2 punch. Idbihi kept a close eye on Hollis and kept him under his wing bringing him to German Regionalliga team Dragons Rhondorf where he was the CEO. Hollis dominated the Regionalliga from the get go playing 18 games averaging  22.7ppg, 8.2rpg, 3.6apg, Steals-5(3.0spg), FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 79.4%. As the stats suggest, he was able to fill them up with ease. He even silenced any critics that he was only an offensive threat by registering a rare triple double double against Leverkusen where he was on another planet on defense that night securing 10 steals. All in all, his season in Germany allowed him to sow his basketball roots and just play the game he loves allowing him to play with absolute freedom and fully incorporate his strengths while proving that he could lead the team to success. The club was on route to the playoffs when COVID-19 hit. The Dragons Rhondorf most likely would have challenged the RheinStars Cologne for the move back to the Pro B. The American left the club shortly before Covid hit to prepare for the 2020 NBA Draft.

            The 2020 NBA Draft is today and it has been a super super long road for Curtis Hollis in the last 9 plus months. It seems like at times that the American had only one goal each day and it was get up eat breakfast, train, eat lunch, nap, train, eat dinner, train and then sleep and then get up and do it all over again the next day. Today Hollis will have to cope with the huge build up that has been mounting the last 9 months and see if all the hard work has paid off. “ I’m super excited! I’m not really nervous I’m more excited & just ready to go day 1”, stressed Curtis Hollis. He is currently in Los Angeles, California where he will watch the NBA Draft show and await his fate. COVID-19 put huge restrictions on many things and also forced many players world-wide to become creative and find new ways how to stay in shape as well as work on basketball skills, but the American was fortunate not to have to travel 1000 miles to another place or have to work on his skills in underground parking lot´s at midnight. “It wasn’t too challenging because thankfully I had a guy that had a gym. So I took maybe a week or two off & got right back to it”, remembered Curtis Hollis. His last official pro game was January 18^th against Herford where the world was still in order having Kobe and no COVID-19 in Europe, but not being able to feel that competitiveness and will to win against a real opponent hasn´t been easy. “ It’s been strange not playing a official game because I miss that feeling. But it hasn’t been too bad because I’ve been in open gyms, and  open runs so I’ve been able to get some live action out of that”, said Curtis Hollis.

            With so much time on his hands to just grind, grind and grind, the American had sufficient time to continue to work on his game and just develop despite not playing real games. He left Germany with confidence having that rhythm from outside shooting at a clip of 38%. He knew exactly what the best solution was to hopefully transform into a 40% and up shooter. “Just the accuracy, the consistency. Shooting the ball the same way every time with confidence. Just stuff like that! I’ve been able to get reps up so that’s really helped”, expressed Curtis Hollis. Even if his offensive stats standout, the defensive side is a huge part of his game and one that he also takes a lot of pride in. Getting deflections, quick stops, and steals allows him to get out on transition and make him very dangerous. He knew exactly what he had to do the last 9 months to not be a good defender, but a great defender and reach a new level. “Just consistently every single possession guarding and being solid doing it not going overboard trying to make every spectacular play. At times I’ve had a tendency to take possessions off. I can’t do that. So it’s just being more focused and ready to guard every possession”, warned Curtis Hollis. The last months, he has examined tape of NBA player Andre Iguodala in hopes of soaking up as much as possible from his game to incorporate into his and be that impact player at a higher level. “I have been watching mostly the defensive side. Being solid as a defender, he’s athletic can slash, & make plays for others. So I’m just watching stuff like that because as a rookie coming into the NBA I might have to start out taking that type of roll”, stressed Curtis Hollis. Of course in order to get better, you can´t train and practice against clowns, but battle against guys who have been at the NBA level and know what it takes to get there. Hollis had the pleasure of suiting up against guys like guys Darius Garland, Ian Clark, Shake Milton, Jawun Evans, Robert Covington and Alex Poythtress who helped him grind that extra mile more and get that extra punch that he may not have produced against lesser players. “It’s been amazing and always good getting those reps. I shined just playing my game trying to win against those guys”, explained Curtis Hollis. In terms of how his game looks today, he can go into the 2020 NBA Draft with his head held high as he is a totally superior player today then he was in January 2020 in Germany. “I’m just better overall. A better catch and shoot 3 point shooter, sharpened my handles / my game as I always do, really locking in defensively, got more athletic, & just really locking in everyday to work hard and get better”, warned Curtis Hollis.

            One of the last movies that he saw in order to get mentally prepared for the 2020 NBA Draft was Rookie of the year. Recently he had a work out with the Golden State Warriors and drew interest from the Pelicans, Mavericks and Hawks. He was overall content after showing the Golden State Warriors his game on the court. “It was good. They just had some areas they wanted to see me in. My confidence definitely rose and I feel like I took advantage of my opportunity. So I’m blessed”, said Curtis Hollis. When looking at the 2020 NBA Draft, as usual you will have an abundance of very young players getting drafted. Guys that are 4-5 years younger than Hollis. These youngsters may not be that better skill-wise, but still have the youth and rawness to be able to develop further, which is always a big plus for NBA teams. Hollis´s big advantage over the young bucks is his experience and some other area´s. “Experience is huge, being developed and coached at that level especially in Europe is going be so critical for me. Living on my own and having money already is another advantage. It won’t take me a big adjustment period”, stressed Curtis Hollis. I´m sure even if the American will never admit it, he secretly has compared some of his mix video´s to those of Lamelo Ball and wonder, “Is that dude really better than me”?. Ball averaged 40,0ppg in the JBL while Hollis averaged 29,0ppg. Like Hollis, Ball who once dropped 92 points in a high school game has developed further and last played in the Australian top league averaging 17/7/7. Hollis didn´t want to compare himself to Ball, but wasn´t short of compliments. “Skill wise he’s incredible and I feel I am too. You know we’re both high level players in my opinion so it’s cool. That’s my brother he’s an amazing player”, added Curtis Hollis. The American recently stated in a Podcast that if he doesn´t get drafted, it won´t be the end of the world. He could still be named to an NBA team´s training camp roster and play in the G-League and make his way to the NBA. The NBA process can be a long one, but one thing is for sure, he won´t be coming back to Europe this season. “Pretty much 100% chance I’m staying in the States. Things could change but I’m in a great position right now”, stressed Curtis Hollis. Hollis has been extra lucky to have had the support of the Holman Sports management firm that have supported him and stuck with him during this difficult NBA process. “Aaron Holman my agent has worked for me non stop since the day I met him and has done everything he said he would do. We have a great relationship & basically talk everyday. He’s always so real and tells me everything good, bad, or ugly. So I just appreciate him and thank him so much for everything but it’s just the beginning”, warned Curtis Hollis. Even if Hollis doesn´t get drafted, his NBA dream won´t end on November 18^th, 2020 as it will continue as he will continue to grind, grind and grind until he can persuade an NBA team with his skills the next weeks and months. But if he does get selected then I would recommend mayor Jeff Robinson to have November 18^th be Curtis Hollis day.

When I left the Fraport arena on March 1, 2020 after a 79-54 blowout win by the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg over the Fraport Skyliners, I never would have thought that would be my last visit there in the 2019-2020 season. COVID-19 was alive then, but I just figured that somehow the season would continue and basketball life would continue. Boy was I wrong. A little more than 8 months later, nothing was the same anymore as the players of the team Fraport Skyliners and FC Bayern Munich would experience a game that they had never witnessed before in the Fraport arena.. The main area in front of the Fraport arena was a ghost town with no fans and no smell of the yummy and delicious German food wasn´t present either. I The press couldn´t enter where they wanted to, but had to take one specific entrance. The quietness that was present only minutes before tip off must have been a shock for most. The presence of masks was nothing new as this has confronted most of the world since months and something most probably were able to endure, but the crushing lack of atmosphere had to have been the worst feeling ever. That is what COVID-19 has given sports in Germany as fans aren´t permitted at the moment. The Fraport Skyliners came into the contest with a 0-1 record having survived a brutal three quarters onslaught by Alba Berlin last weekend finishing strong with an unbelievable 25-0 run in the fourth while FC Bayern Munich their next opponent had beaten Rasta Vechta in their first game of the season. Many may have not had any confidence with the Fraport Skyliners knowing their tough track record and predicted a Munich victory by the break, but instead Frankfurt buckled down hard taking a smooth 34-28 lead after 20 minutes, but fell apart in the second quarter mustering only 18 points and losing 75-52. Some teams experienced the Munich bubble last summer so actually playing in front of no fans is starting to become a habit.” Even if it was the first time at home without fans, It still was the same type of feeling for me like when we were in Munich. Now I think that guys on my team are getting used to it”, stressed Quantez Robertson. With no fans screaming left and right, there is an obvious advantage for players to understand a coaches screaming words and sometimes even understand another player from the bench even if he has been absent for a few years now. “If I was in the other corner of the arena, I know that I would be able to hear Mike Morrison with his very vocal and animated way. Kamari Murphy has been doing a good job being vocal on the court helping his teammates”, added Quantez Robertson.

                Despite not having starting point guard Manu Lecomte available for the game, the Fraport Skyliners came out reborn and brought some of that potent game ending vibe that they had from Berlin back to Frankfurt. They jumped on FC Bayern Munich quickly and got a comfortable lead on them. Frankfurt took a rapid 8-0 lead while FC Bayern Munich may still have had thoughts over their big Euroleague win over Valencia Basket and ex player Derrick Williams 48 hours earlier. Frankfurt stuck to intelligent basketball and not doing anything too tough and taking what the defense gave them. 4 baskets in the paint with 2 from ex Davidson(NCAA) standout Jon Axel Gudmundsson paved the way for early success. Quantez Robertson has played with many great rookies from the NCAA like Jon Leuer, Shavon Shields or Taj Webster and wasn´t ready to comment on Gudmundsson´s being their worth yet, but overall was very pleased with the rookie´s continued consistency. “He doesn´t necessarily have that leadership role yet, but he has been one of our main go to guys so far. He has been playing very well and has taken up the challenge well to being our starting shooting guard(point guard”, expressed Quantez Robertson. Almost 5 minutes had been played before ex NBA player Jajuan Johnson scored. Frankfurt played outstanding defense from the get go and were able to score key baskets down the stretch to lead 17-11 after 10 minutes. “We knew that we had to capitalize on our good fourth quarter in Berlin and did so for an extended time. We did a good joy playing aggressive defense and sticking to it. We did a good job not allowing them multiple chances at the rim and not allowing them to capitalize on offense rebounds”, said ex Auburn(NCAA) guard Quantez Robertson. In the second quarter FC Bayern Munich got into a better offense rhythm while sharing the ball a lot better. The guests got stellar play from ex NBA player Paul Zipser who was aggressive and led the charge in the come back. A late Bruno Vrcic trey kept the Bavarian club at bay trailing 34-28. “They didn´t underestimate us at the start. We played a good first 10-15 minutes, but they then got on a run. Good teams like that are still able to pick at the lead. We did a good job holding them off”, warned Quantez Robertson.

                The Fraport Skyliners entered the second half with a 6 point lead and were unable to recapture some of that second half magic from Alba Berlin. FC Bayern Munich showed their true class and outscored Frankfurt 47-18 which at the end looked like an easy blow out win. Paul Zipser came out showing that he can score in bunches leading Munich on a 9-0 run to retake the lead. Another three by Zipser and routine waltzes to the free throw line allowed FC Bayern Munich to lead 54-46 after 30 minutes. FC Bayern Munich had totally turned around the contest and slammed the door shut in the fourth quarter. A 21-6 offensive romp by the 2020 German champion sealed the win. Zipser continued to carve out his statistics with added points and little used young German Robin Amaize was able to add some self-confidence scoring 5 points in garbage time as he has to compete with some of Europe´s best players for minutes on a daily basis. Frankfurt´s two worst stat results was losing the rebound battle badly 45-31 and allowing 15 offensive rebounds and shooting a poor 21% from the parking lot. “We didn´t execute well enough in the second half. We didn´t hit the offensive boards well enough to get the second chances that we needed. They played aggressive defense and took us out of our rhythm”, stated Quantez Robertson. Another poor stat result were the only 6 team assists. Ok one can always point fingers and have excuses with starting point guard Manu Lecomte out, but then again other clubs are also faced with challenges like this and find ways to make adjustments. It is a blessing that Quantez Robertson has developed into the Skyliners secret extra point guard over the years, but it is still unacceptable to have him register 4 of the team 6 assists. “It hurt that Manu was out, but we have to do a better job of making open shots and not passing them up. That is what happened to us against Munich. We didn´t take advantage of our open opportunities on the pass. That was a big reason for the loss”, answered Quantez Robertson. The biggest question mark is when will the club finally play 40 minutes well? “To be able to do that, the starters have to come back in the third quarter and assert themselves better. We have to execute better and play more together. Key Is we have to want to stop someone even more when our offense isn´t working”, warned Quantez Robertson.

 Even if so much was bad, Tez did find positives for the upcoming game in Oldenburg. “We came out and fought and never backed down. Even if we lost by 23 points, we came back after the loss in Berlin and played and fought hard. We need to bring that energy from the first half against Munich to Oldenburg”, stated Quantez Robertson. Roberston examined the season schedule when it came out and is fully aware of their difficult beginning program with ratiopharm Ulm following. “I don´t think about the games after Oldenburg. I always go game by game”, stressed Quantez Robertson. The tough beginning schedule of the Fraport Skyliners reminds the 2016 FIBA Europe Cup champion of the best sports moment of the year in early spring when March Madness rolls around. “Playing against these top teams so early has been tough, but it is similar to March Madness. All you can do is play hard and do all you can to win. You play against top competition and getting the 2 Euroleague teams has been a challenge, but also important being able to take that step up to the challenge. I think these games are good for us to see where we stand against top teams and how we can face and withstand the adversary”, warned Quantez Roberston. As usual one of the 2 big highlights of the season for any Frankfurt or Oldenburg fan is witnessing the continued battle between the leagues 2 identity figures Ricky Paulding who has been in the BBL since 2007 and Quanetz Robertson who has been in the league since 2009. “There won´t be any special pre game meetings. We will say our usual what´s up and ask how were feeling, but then we finish our warmups and battle each other in the game the same way it has been each season”, stressed Quantez Robertson. You need to cherish it 100%, because once these 2 BBL basketball Gods are finished, then Frankfurt-Oldenburg meetings will never be the same again.

DJ Woodmore is a 28 year old 190cm point guard that is playing his first season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. Last season with Morgenstern BIS Basket Speyer (Germany-ProB) he played 21 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 87.3%. In 2018-2019 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 71.6% in the Regionalliga. In his first two seasons with Speyer he averaged 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1% and 17.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 76.4%. he played at Virginia Wesleyan College (NCAA3): from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). He spoke to germanhoops.com after the huge 71-67 win over FC Bayern 2.

DJ congrats on the huge 71-67 win over FC Bayern Munich 2. How good does 4-0 feel right now? 


Thank you, it feels pretty good to start the season so strong. Each game has been tough, but I think we’re learning and finding a way to come together when we need it the most.

How tough was it missing a week because of the cancellation game against Giessen? How do you feel did this break help the team?


It wasn’t terrible honestly. Having that weekend off is helpful sometimes especially during a season like this one. Not having a Christmas break this season makes for a long year, so I think it’s important to take the small breaks when possible. But it can definitely hurt in some ways if you’re not doing the right things during the break.

How interesting is it for you in general to battle against the brand FC Bayern Munich? Does it feel extra special when you can pull out an exciting win like that?

I mean it’s always exciting when you’re playing against a name like that. Def brings an extra motivation for a team. You know they will always be well coached, well prepared, and some of the best young talent in the country. Feels good to win a game like that but we know there’s still a long road ahead. 

FC Bayern Munich 2 had you guys on the ropes leading 57-48 after 3 quarters. What magical words did head coach Danny Rodriguez give you guys going into the 4th quarter?

Just stick to the game plan! Wasn’t one of our best offensive games of the season, but we were able to make plays when we needed to, and get stops as well. At the end of the day, winning games like that, is huge for a team. 

Brian Butler had a big dunk early, but that didn’t really ignite the game right away, but soon on got added production from many guys. How much of a further step did the team make with that vital concept of team basketball in crunch-time?


I thought we learned a lot about each other after that game. Like I said, it wasn’t a great offensive game for us, but we came together at the right times and focused up when we needed. Now if we can find a way to do that for 40 mins, I think we’ll be in good shape.

5 guys scored in double figures and no one scored more than 13 points. Has the club erased the notion of hero ball already so early in the season?


I hope so, I think that will be key in our success. We have a lot of talented players that can make plays, but we know every weekend might call for someone different to step up and lead us. This weekend it was a balanced effort but as long as we can keep it consistent, good things will happen.

The club played some huge defense at the end. What did the team learn about itself a bit better on the defensive end? 

I think we learned that if we can have that same mentality and focus in the 1st quarter, the 4th quarter probably won’t be so difficult. 

I believe that CJ Oldham had his biggest game of the season. What part of his game were you most thankful about having?

CJ is an all around player! Brings you consistency and unselfish decision making on offense but is also a high IQ and pesky defender. Great rebounder, and extremely versatile on both ends. Makes so many plays that don’t always go in the stat sheet but is a player you always want to have on the court when the game is close. He was probably the biggest reason we won against Bayern. 

You have seen so many young players in your career, but just how talented is Jason George? Where will his journey go? 

Extremely talented player. His size, strength, and skill set for his age makes the sky the limit for him. Bright future ahead for sure.

You had another solid game with 13 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. With a team that has so much talent and scoring ability, is the being aggressive part difficult to be just because you can be more of a playmaker then that aggressive scorer? 


At times it can be. But it’s been okay so far. I’m still trying to find my balance between being aggressive and making the right plays. I knew coming into the season and being asked to play primarily PG would be challenging but the players we have make it a whole lot easier. I’ll get there though.

At 4-0 you guys are doing many things well, but is taking better care of the ball one of the things the team will be concentrating more on improving this week? 


Yes, I think that was a key factor for us all preseason and thought we did a good Job the first two games but we’ve struggled the last two weeks. I have to do a better job in making sure we’re in the right spots offensively, but we’ll work on it a bit more this week in training. 

Does that feeling of being invincible grow from game to game or are you guys taking that unbeaten record carefully without wanting to get topo excited so early? 

No not so much. We’re definitely excited to get off to such a good start but we’re staying level headed. Like I said, it’s a long season and we still have plenty of room for improvement. Have to take it game by game and not look ahead. Each day we’re trying to get a little bit better. 

What did you do on your free Sunday being 4-0? Do you take some time to go back to Speyer to visit friends or did you get to know your new home Koblenz better

With this lockdown there isn’t much to do these days lol. Would love to visit some friends in Speyer but there isn’t much time. I’m usually just hanging out in Koblenz watching some BBL and NFL games. And it’s always a good time to catch up with some family and friends back home in Virginia

Thanks DJ for the chat

Shavar Newkirk is a 24 year old 183cm guard from the Bronx, New York that played his second season in Germany with FC Schalke 04 (Germany-ProA) averaging : 13.3ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.6apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 78.2%. Last season as a rookie with FC Schalke he averaged 15,4ppg, 4,2rpg, 2,8apg and 1,5spg. He began his basketball career at Cardinal Heyes HS /Bronx, NY. In 2014 he began his NCAA career with St.Joseph’s (NCAA) playing 31 games averaging 3.3ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.3apg. In his sophomore season with St.Joseph’s (NCAA) he played 37 games averaging 8.1ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 73.8%. In his junior season at St.Joseph’s (NCAA) he played 12 games averaging 20.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 84.7%. In his senior year with St.Joseph’s (NCAA) he played 32 games averaging 17.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 76.4%.He spoke to germanhoops.com and his current basketball situation.

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

Hello Miles, thank you for talking with me . I am currently in Egilssttaoir, Iceland with Hottur basketball club. The basketball life is treating me pretty well thus far, I have been able to travel to different places in the world and meet wonderful people while playing the game that I love

The last time we spoke, you reported what you had experienced with COVID-19 at the start, but let´s rewind a bit and go back to the long summer. How did you experience the first few months in New York? New York was one of the worst places to be at in the States

It has been a very long summer. Luckily I was fortunate enough to get into a private gym and still be able to work on all aspects of my game on and off the court . Due to New York being shut down, I got to enjoy my family during that time.

There are many professional players from the metropolitan area. Did you have the opportunity to trade stories about COVID-19 or even find ways to work out? How much of a challenge was it working out and finding basketball time during COVID-19

I was blessed to be able to connect with personal friend and trainer Jason Cole. It was dope, he was able to get a lot of the top tier New Yorkers past and present to compete in the gym and get better each and everyday. I worked out with Joe Tousiannt( Iowa university), Clive Allen(Former Cardinal Hayes star) , Isaiah Washington( Long Beach University) and Mike Williams( Hemel Hempstead in London ) just to name a few. Covid have pushed everything back for professionals and college players allowing players to have a longer summer to work on their skills .

Did you find your self taking up new kinds of ways of staying in shape? Some guys made their living rooms into gyms or ran in underground parking lots. How was it for you?

I was able to get into a great private facility and get in the weight room and use the equipment there to stay in top condition

How do you feel were you able to get your game the best benefit during COVID-19, that you felt helped you be able to keep getting better despite the challenges?

I was able to work on my endurance, to help me allow to play at a high rate for a longer period of time. I got to improve my jump shot and put up countless shots.

With everything that you experienced off the court, how do you feel did you become stronger as a man during COVID-19

During Covid , I picked up a few skills to expand my intellect. I learned how to trade foreign currency with this program called “Forex”. I learned how to finally make myself a few decent meals because I lacked skills in the kitchen

It was no secret that COVID-19 would change the whole transfer period and money would go down. A player like yourself before COVID-19 would never have signed in Iceland. What did you learn in this period?

I learned in this period that many job opportunities wouldn’t come and I would have to leap to the opportunity to provide for my family and I.

You did sign in Iceland with Hottur scoring 24 points in a loss. Was your signing in Iceland in an indication of just how difficult the basketball market is during COVID-1)

My signing in Iceland was a chance to showcase my skills and continue to make money during the harsh times of Covid.

Recently you were released. What kind of short experience did you have in Iceland and why was your stay so short?

My stay in Iceland was pleasant , I got to visit the hot springs and The Blue Lagoon. The people are were very pleasant and I got to connect with a great group of guys that showed me the true definition of a team

You had 2 very strong seasons in Germany with FC Schalke. The logical choice would be to return. Could you imagine going back to that team should an injury or release happen?

Schalke are no longer a basketball club. If the opportunity presents itself for me to go back to Germany, I would gladly take it .

The German Pro A and Pro B leagues are still operating. Would you be willing to play in the Pro B for less?

Yes I will be willing to play in Pro B for less. I will be able to play and continue to showcase my skills and add to my resume that can help me in the future

With COVID-19 having struck and effected the whole world, are you aware of what you once had as a player and where you would like to be again? How hungry are you to get back on the court?

With Covid being here, I am well aware of how blessed I am and fortunate to continue to do what I love . I am extremely hungry to get back on the court and show what I have and what I got to prove .

Thanks Shavar for the chat.

Brody Clarke is a 24 year old 2105cm forward from Toronto Canada that will play his first season overseas in Germany with the ROMERSTROM Gladiators Trier (Germany-ProA). He began his basketball career at Oakwood Collegiate Institute and then played at the The University of Alberta (U Sports) from 2014-2020 playing a total of 115 games. His best season wa sin 2018-2019 when he averaged 26 games: 18.6ppg, Reb-3 (10.4rpg), 2.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 75.4%. He also gained extra experience the last 2 summers playing with the Edmonton Stingers (CEBL). He spoke to germanhoops.com during the summer of 2020 about basketball. 

Brody thanks for talking to germnhoops.com Where are you and how have you spent your summer in 2020 with COVID-19?

I am currently in Trier, Germany preparing to start my first European Pro season with the Roemerstrom Gladiators Trier in the Germany ProA League. Before this I was spending my summer in Northern Ontario in my mom’s hometown of Sault Ste Marie at our family cabin working out and trying to stay in shape as best I could. From July 12 – August 9 I spent time in St. Catharines, Ontario playing for the Edmonton Stingers in the Canadian Elite Basketball League’s ‘Summer Series’ which took place in a bubble down there due to the virus. We won the championship, and it was an overall great first pro experience.

You finished your college career on March 8th but unlike most were able to get your foot in the professional level playing for the Edmonton Stingers this past summer. Did you have a strange feeling being one of the few in the world besides the NBA and a few leagues in Europe to have played during COVID-19?

It was definitely a strange feeling getting to play sports amidst the global pandemic, but I found myself really excited to be back on a court doing what I love. I had great teammates and coaching staff which made the experience all the more enjoyable. I was initially quite skeptical of the situation however as the days went by and the league staff as well as the public health authorities continued to guarantee our safety, it become much easier to just focus on basketball and have fun competing at a high level again.

Congrats on winning the CEBL title recently. How important was it getting this professional experience twice the last 2 summers. Do you feel like this chip will give you added self-confidence and have a positive effect on your teammates ?

Thank you! I definitely feel like the experience will help me adjust to the pro level in Europe because it gave me the confidence that I belonged. I think that the added confidence will constitute a positive effect on my teammates and coaches as I no longer feel like a total rookie. I think that the small experience I have puts me ahead of the players coming in who have no professional experience to draw from.

How did you experience the whole COVID-19 crisis in Canada? Was it difficult keeping in shape and working on basketball skills? Did you spend a lot of time with Jordan Baker working on your game?


It was a tough adjustment at first. However I ended up being able to work out as much as I wanted to back home in Ontario which made me feel lucky considering that it was not my job to remain in shape to play pro ball. It wasn’t too difficult because we had some weights at home and a hoop so I was always able to stay familiar with the game. I actually did not spend that much time with Jordan because we were in completely different parts of the country for most of the pandemic. However I was back in Edmonton to take care of a personal matter for an odd weekend and we were in the gym as much as we could in that small stint for sure.

What did you learn from COVID-19 that has made you stronger as a man?

I think the most important thing that I’ve learned is to be patient and to find new ways to manage my stress levels when the situation is completely out of my hands. I think this will help me in my professional career and my adult life in general. 

Congrats on signing with the Romerstrom Gladiators. Was the Trier basketball culture and fitting words from Marco Van Den Berg that made it easier for you to pick Trier as your new home in Germany?

The culture and the conversations with Coach Marco were definitely major factors in my choosing to sign here. However the biggest factor was actually fellow Canadian Jermaine Bucknor who has been on the team for a number of years. He gave me the confidence that I would not only fit in well with the style of play, but also that I wouldn’t be alone in a foreign country to start off my career.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? You have played against guys in the past that later went to play in Germany.


I don’t know a whole lot, but I know that Germany is a very highly developed country with a strong sports culture They always do well in the Olympic games in lots of sports. I also know that the the top league (Bundesliga) is one of the best in the world, so if that’s any kind of representation of the level of play in their second league, then I’m in for some really good basketball.

You got your first professional experience with the Edmonton Stingers (CEBL) playing 6 games averaging 10.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.0apg, FGP-1 (70.0%), 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 78.6%. You didn’t have the massive stats like in school and played less minutes. What kind of experience was this for you and how did this short period help you as a player progress as you prepare for the German season?

For me this opportunity was mostly used as a transition to get acclimated to the pro level and recognize where my game already fit in to that level, and learn where I needed to improve. I didn’t get massive stats, but I definitely wasn’t satisfied with my own output either. For example I think it showed me that since I’m no longer the biggest guy out there, I have to work a lot harder on the glass to keep up, and I plan to use that knowledge to be more effective in Germany.

How vital was it seeing guys like Jordan Baker and Adika Peter-Mcneilly play? Did you ask some advice about Germany where they had balled before in the past?

This was very important. I spent a lot of time asking them questions and picking their brains about what I should prepare for in my experience here. They both enjoyed it a lot and had significant advice that I think I will keep with me for the whole year.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re an athletic 205cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I’ve always struggled to answer this question because I don’t really like comparing myself to NBA guys, they’re just so outrageously high-level. If I HAD to choose, I would say Wendell Carter, because that’s what my friend Zale from UofA (who cares a lot more about that stuff) always tells me.

You can score and get rebounds, but also have a three pointer and very keen basketball IQ. Would it be fair to say you are a modern day forward?


I definitely think I’m a modern-day forward. I think the game is moving further and further away from solid positions, and I think I’m versatile given my size and skillset. I try to be as positionless as possible, and I think I can continue to get better at shooting the ball which will open up my game in a whole new way with today’s game.

Your averaged 2 assists in a season at the The University of Alberta. How confident are you that you can be a very good passer at the professional level once your game continues to develop?

I was an effective passer at UofA because I drew a lot of attention in the post and had to make the right decision to find open shooters and cutters. I think a lot of my ability to rack up assists will depend on how effective I can be scoring the ball. Once I start to draw more defenders, the rest of the floor will open up for my teammates which is where I think I can be effective distributing.

You have an unbelievable work ethic and dedication to the game. How vital has the support of your parents been who both were basketball champions?

I think that my work ethic is something that was instilled in me and my siblings from a very young age by both of our parents. It’s something I try to apply to all areas of my life, not just basketball. Both of them were basketball champions and stars in their own right, but they’re also both so tenacious away from sports. Growing up in that household molded us into being very hard working all around. My mom started her own law firm in the 90s and my dad has run an inner-city youth basketball club in Toronto since the early 2000s and they both just work their butts off in every aspect of their lives. The fact that they can juggle everything they do, accomplish all that they have, and still be very much present in our lives every step along the way is extremely encouraging. I always try to make them proud in everything that I do, so if I’m not trying my hardest to succeed in my pro career, I may as well go do something else that I can dedicate myself more to. That’s why I work as hard as I do.

You became more of a shot blocker as time went by at the The University of Alberta. How much pride do you take on the defensive end and what are you working on in that area most now as you approach your professional debut?

I’ve always believed that defense wins basketball games, not scoring. I think that as the years went by I started to come into my own athletically and became just overall more able to block shots and stay in front of people on the defensive side of the ball. It’s something that’s hard to work on, but I’m always trying to get quicker and improve my reaction time so I can be a better on-ball defender at the pro level.

How vital was it the hours and hours of footwork that you did with your dad in the gym the last years to make you the player that you are today?

Maybe the most important part of my development. I remember thinking it was boring but then when I started to apply some of the stuff, I was baffled at how well it worked. Even to this day when I go home and get in the gym with him he still drills me on what I’m doing with my feet, it’s clearly a big advantage to have that great of a basketball mind behind the scenes.

You have had many big achievements, but how big was it winning the West Tournament in 2017? What memories do you still have of that?

That will go down as one of the most exciting moments of my University career. I had two more chances at it and dropped both of them, which really showed me how big of an achievement that was. I always try to look back at that year to understand what it takes to win championships and try to channel that feeling in every game, practice and workout. 

You had Brandon’s number at the University of Alberta scoring 35 points and 30 points, but hit UBC with 40 points. Was that 40 point game one of your most memorable and did you know early on that you would have a big game?

The 40pt game was definitely one of my most memorable games of my life. I didn’t know going in I would have such a big game, but once I started hitting shots in the first half I had a feeling it would be a good night for me. I just didn’t know how good. As the second half started I realized I was really on fire and my teammates just kept feeding me the ball. It was a very important game to clinch second in the conference, and I was determined to win so I kept letting it fly and the basket felt really big that day. I always get mad at myself when I miss free throws and I was determined to make all of them that day, so when I got to seal a win and achieve the 40pt mark on a freethrow I knew I was going to make it. It was a great night and I’ll remember it forever.

How did head coach Barnaby Craddock groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Coach Barnaby held me to a very high standard every day in practice and in the off season and treated me like a pro. I made it clear to him early what my goals were, so he always made sure to hold me to a higher standard than my teammates and make sure I felt responsible for our team’s success as well as my own. He helped me with my confidence a lot and we were constantly in talking about all things basketball. We have a really good relationship and I credit him with a lot of my ability to overcome a lot of the mental roadblocks I had made for myself on the court. He instilled a lot of confidence in me over the years.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Cole Knudsen?

Cole and I have definitely had our battles. I’ll give him a few wins for sure. I think I won most of the time though haha. The dude is so strong though he really made me improve, probably more than he realizes.

In 2011 you played at the FIBA Americas U16 Championship in Cancun (MEX) winning the Bronze medal. You 
Bowed out to USA 113-70. In that game you played against future NBA players like Aaron Gordon, Jahil Okafor, Jabari Parker, Tyus Jones, and Theo Pinson Jr. Which guy on that roster stuck out the most at that young age?

Jabari Parker. I remember thinking ‘this guy’s the next LeBron’. He was basically the same player he is now, but at age 16. Maybe not as polished but, he was unbelievably good.

You played at the FIBA 3×3 U18 World Championships in 2013. What memories do you have of that and what did you enjoy most about that competition game wise that you can’t necessarily do in regular 5-5?

I have a lot of good memories from 3×3 competition, mostly the travel and the style of the tournament stood out to me. But I can honestly say that there is nothing I like more about the 3×3 game than I do about the 5on5 game. The pace was fun and interesting, but I wouldn’t do it again if I had to choose between it and 5on5.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced on the court that went to the NBA?

Jamal Murray. Played against him growing up in club basketball in Canada and he always played a year up. He is to this day, the best player I’ve ever played against. Deepest skillset I’ve ever seen in person.

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present NBA players?


MJ, LeBron, Kobe, Wilt

Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time?

1.D’Wan Williams – Highschool and UofA
2.Calvin Epistola – Highschool 
3.Jordan Baker
4.Jonah Weyessa – UofA
5.Chris Egi – Team Canada U19
6.Those are the 5 best TEAMMATES regardless of bball skill that I’ve ever had

What is your opinion on the debate of who is better Michael Jordan or Lebron James?


Michael Jordan. I don’t like the argument though, the times are so different, we’ll never know for sure so I don’t really care. That’s just my opinion.

What was the last movie that you saw?

I watched ‘The Best of Us’ with my Girlfriend a few days before I left Canada. I can’t turn down a good romance.

Thanks brody for the chat.

Derrick Williams is a 29 year old 203cm forward from Los Angeles, California that is playing his first season with Valencia Basket (ACB). He played last season with Fenerbahce Dogus Istanbul (Turkey-BSL): playing 28 Euroleague games averaging 11.3ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 66.7%; and played 17 Turkish BSL games averaging 10.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 63.9%. He played his first season in Europe in 2018-2019 with FC Bayern Muenchen (Germany-BBL) playing 37 BBL games averaging 11.4ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 62.0%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 66.7%; and played 29 Euroleague games averaging 13.4ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 78.4%. He also gained experience in China and played 6 seasons in the NBA with Minnesota, Sacramento, New York, Miami, Cleveland and Los Angeles amassing 428 games. He was the second pick in the 2011 NBA Draft and played 2 seasons at the University of Arizona where as a senior he led the team into the NCAA Elite 8 averaging 19.5ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 59.5%, 3PT: 56.8%, FT: 74.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Euroleague game against FC Bayern Munich in Munich.

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


I’m in Valencia, Spain now. We are doing well in Euroleague. Life is great! I have no complaints.

How did you experience COVID-19 the last 7-8 months? Some guys played during the summer, but your season ended in March 2020

It was a little different to have the season come to a halt. First the season was postponed and I left Turkey in mid-March. Then in April the season was canceled. When I first came home, it was a struggle. You couldn’t get the essentials at the store. When you have something like 20-30 million people living in California, there won’t be a lot left. It was a long-lost season. I got used to life. Nobody ever knew what was going to happen and even today it is like that. Today it is still a struggle. It is tough playing without fans. Sports in general has changed a lot in the last months. I’m just glad that we can still play the game. 

I heard many different stories of how guys tried to stay in shape despite the tough circumstances like dribbling the ball in a underground parking lot or traveling 1000 miles to find a gym. Was it a challenge for you to keep working on your craft or didn’t you have any problems finding a place to stay fit?

It was different not being able to work out indoors. You had to work out more outdoors. You just had to find things that were more available. I did some hiking and did beach workouts. Towards the end I went to Miami. There were more lenient rules there. I tried to find that normal day routine, but it all wasn’t the same when you couldn’t do those 4-4 type of drills. 

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

The world stopped and nobody knew what would happen. COVID-19 made me realize what is important in life. Nobody ever expects the worst, but you have to always be prepared for the worst just in case something does happen. COVID has been a time where we all try to become stronger and become better.

You have lived now in Europe in Munich, Istanbul and Valencia. What have you appreciated most about living in places like this that you didn’t see in the NBA?

When you play in Europe, you really get to see different kind of people that really love the game and have that special passion. Everybody knows Bayern from their football program. You could see from the first game until the last game how fans began to fill the seats there. The people were all very nice in Munich. It was the same in Turkey. Turkey was one of a kind. I always encourage people to explore places where they never thought they would ever end up in. I will always remember Istanbul. The fan base was incredible and at another level. They always supported us. It is the same with Valencia. In Europe you often see fans from one city supporting the football and basketball teams. It comes hand in hand. You don’t necessarily see that in the States. A Dallas Cowboy fan might not be a Mavericks fan.

Your playing your first season with Valencia Basket (ACB Spain). The club is doing well in the Euroleague, but struggling in the ACB. Where do you see the journey of this club going this season?

Valencia already had a good team and now has new guys like myself that are trying to make an impact. You just try to add something new without stepping on anyone’s toes. I have been in a slump, but I’m trying to be more aggressive and make an impact. I have to take it one game at a time. Nobody expected us to begin like this in the Euroleague. It is still a young season and we still have a long way to go. We just have to continue to go in the gym and get better. 

Your minutes are down from what you got in Germany and Turkey. What kind of role do you have and has it been tough not having that offensive kind of input that you had previously in Europe?

Of course. If I wasn’t disappointed then I would be lying. I want to make the biggest impact possible. The club brought me here to help them make the playoffs. At the same time, I have been struggling. I tore my muscle in my calf and didn’t play any pre season games. That set me back 3 weeks. That was the time where we have to come together and mesh. I have never played on a team like this where really all 15 players play and play a significant role. That is a testament to our team.

Last season you played with Fenerbahce Dogus Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) playing 28 Euroleague games averaging 11.3ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 66.7%; and played 17 Turkish BSL games averaging 10.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 63.9%. What memories did you take with you from this time and what did you take from the culture in Istanbul?


Istanbul was one of the most amazing places that I have ever been in. I have wanted to play in an atmosphere like that for a club like that and a coach like Sasa Obradovic for a long time. Every player wants to play for a club, coach and atmosphere like that at least once in their lifetime. 

You have played for many coaches in your career, but I’m sure never for a unique coach like Sasa Obradovic?


I know there are a lot of intense stories about coach, but this guy is a genius. He knows everything about basketball. You just want to be around a guy that loves the game as much as he does. He brings joy despite the intensity. Everyday is intense with him. That is rare and something you don’t see in the NBA. He is very detailed and knows exactly what he wants to accomplish. I’m so glad I could play for the best coach in Europe. I remember when I was playing with Munich, they all said Sasa was the best coach in Europe. You don’t realize it until you start to play for him. He is one of a kind. If you play hard with energy each day, then he will love you.

In your first season in Europe you played with FC Bayern Muenchen (Germany-BBL) playing 37 games averaging 11.4ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 62.0%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 66.7%; and played 29 Euroleague: games averaging 13.4ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 78.4%. What was your wake up call to being in Europe for the first time where you knew that you were far away from home?


It doesn’t matter where you play, if your openminded and can embrace the situation, then it will make the adjustment easier. Munich was exactly what I needed coming from the NBA. Everybody accepted me from day 1. They gave me the ultimate confidence saying that they just wanted me to play my game. If I did that then the team would have the best chances to win. 

You had some huge games including making 27 points in the exciting 83-81 win over Alba Berlin or scoring 26 points in the 88-84 Euroleague win over Zalgiris. Is there a game that you will never forget?

Those were some of my best games in Europe. Those were fun times. Munich will always have a special place in my heart. I will never forget Munich for giving me that first chance in Europe after having played in the NBA and China. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my experience playing for FC Bayern Munich. They allowed me to showcase my game and I will forever be grateful to them for that.

In 2017-2018 you saw China and their basketball playing for Tianjin Gold Lions (China-CBA) playing 15 games averaging 20.0ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.4apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 57.4%, 3FGP: 33.9%, FT: 70.5%. What was it like being the lone American and what kind of hype and admiration did you see there on a daily basis ?

China was a crazy atmosphere. That has been the only time in my career where I felt like I was really far away from home. I was in a different time zone and I had my translator Frank 24/7 because the coach didn’t speak english. He was everywhere. He did whatever I needed. If I needed room service then he gave it to me. Whenever I went to asleep, people were getting up in the States and wanted to talk to me. But I kept an open mind and embraced the situation. I knew that I wasn’t going to go anywhere and needed to accept it. It was a part of my journey. One that I will never forget.

After playing 6 full seasons in the NBA, you came back after China and played a game with the Los Angeles Lakers. How quickly after this season did you make your decision to come overseas?

It was a great experience to be with my hometown team Lakers. It was my childhood dream to play for my Lakers. I still think a lot about that time. I made my decision to go overseas about 1 month after the season. I felt like I didn’t want to go back to China and didn’t want to wait and wait again. Before I went to China, I had missed out on European deals and I didn’t want that to happen again. I had 3 offers from 2 Eurocup teams Valencia and Baskonia and Euroleague team Munich. I had no idea what the difference was between Euroleague and Eurocup. I asked my agent which team played at the highest level and he said Munich. I said ‘sign me’. The Eurocup teams offered more money, but that didn’t concern me. I wanted to play at the highest level and prove all wrong. That is why I chose Munich.

You had some very productive seasons in the NBA showing consistency and helped the Cavs reach the final as a reliable role player. You could of stayed and still be there today. Why do you think did your NBA time stop there?


I was still a free agent and to be honest I had no idea why. My time with Munich was really important, because it got me in a mode where I wanted to get better. People keep asking me why I’m not in the NBA and I say because I chose not to be in the NBA. I had deals in Europe and just wasn’t ready to go back to the NBA. I came to Europe to not only to prove to everyone else, but also to myself that I’m a good player. Being drafted so high in 2011 at #2 had a big effect on me. People right away expect you to be a superstar, but that is pretty unfair if you ask me. Look at Isaiah Thomas. He was the 60th pick. That is so hard to believe, but he has had an incredible career. Not everybody can be allstars. You can’t have 45 allstars. I didn’t average 25 points per game in the NBA, but 10 points and that is hard to do. People always told me that I should have averaged more than I did. But I’m perfectly happy where I am today

Your not even 30 years old. How realistic is the NBA still in your mind and do you miss it?

I still follow many guys in the NBA and am still good friends with many so I would be lying if I said it wasn’t on my mind. It is still one of my goals to return. I just will continue to keep working hard and maybe I will return. I turned down the NBA something other guys wouldn’t do. I know that if I did return that I would be able to make a impact. I know that I could help any team in the NBA or Europe right now.

You split the 2016-2017 season with the Miami Heat and Cleveland. What kind of experience was it finishing the season with Lebron James and reaching the final?

The Cavs were the first team in my career where the main thing was winning. It was a different atmosphere and great to be playing with incredible players that all had a significant role. Guys like Lebron, Kyrie, Kevin Love, Richard Jefferson or Channing Frye all did things on the court that I have always wanted to do. I had needed to be around guys like this on a daily basis for a very long time. I had 3 offers. I had 2 guaranteed offers from Denver and Brooklyn and a 10 day contract from the Cavs. I took the 10 day contract. I felt like I had nothing to lose and that is exactly how I played. I will never forget my first conversation with Lebron. He said, ‘Nobody will yell at you if you get a turnover. Just rebound the ball and then push it. When your open take the three and expect to get the lob pass’. I had a role with the Cavs and immediately impacted the game. When your around a guy like Lebron, you can only get better. 

Where do you rank your 35 point explosion in the wild 124-121 win over your ex team Miami Heat as most memorable in your career?


Of course that was one of my most memorable games in the NBA. Everybody has one of those games that you look forward to a long time and that was one of those games for me. It was the same for me when I played Duke. The Duke win moved me from a top 20 player to a top 5 player just like that. I had a lot of frustration balled up in one explosion. I just wanted to play well against my old team. I just wanted to make myself paly well no matter what. At the end of the day all I wanted to do was prove them wrong.

You probably experienced many crazy things in the NBA, but what do you remember from You Tuber Vitaly during his streak in game 4?

That was a crazy time when Vitaly ran on the court. I had seen him before. That guy is all over the internet. Nobody expected it to happen. It was shocking at first but then it was all fun and games. 

Everybody knows how versatile Lebron James is, but if he played only point guard how many assists would he average in a season?


I always felt like he had wanted to make the move from small forward to point guard. During a game he becomes the point guard. I believe that last year was his first as a point guard and he averaged 11 assists. You see great passing point guards with Chris Paul and Ricky Rubio and he is passing them then it is really a testament to his amazing talent. I think that if he played center then he would average something like 2,5 blocks per game. He is one of the great all-time players. I feel we won’t really realize how great he is until he retires. It was the same with Kobe. He didn’t get the full respect until he retired. The Lakers had been a terrible team for years not making the playoffs and then in Lebron’s second season, they will it all. I feel Lebron is 3 times Magic with athleticism. I respect every player, but there have only been 4 guys that I have that real deep respect because of the sacrifices they have made to become great. Those 4 are Lebron, Kobe, Kevin Durant, and Carmelo Anthony. I saw a lot of this sacrifice as well early in Derrick Rose’s career. I could practice a shot for a year and still not make it, but these guys make them every day and then also in tough situations. 

You played a season with the New York Knicks and Carmelo Anthony. What was it like being his teammate and wouldn’t he deserve a chance to sign with a title contender before he retires?

I remember at the beginning that as I started to talk more to him the more he began to open up. His jersey was the first one I bought when I was a little kid. I showed him a pic of me in his jersey where he was 19 and I was 10 and he couldn’t believe it. I idolized his game growing up and also tried to model my game around his. He is an all around good guy. He should never have been out of the NBA. Many things that were said about him weren’t true. He is a great teammate and always took the blame. I really respect that from him. He could of pointed fingers, but he always took the L on his shoulders. He took the blame and that is something that a leader should always do. They way he was treated the last 2 years was unfair. I’m really happy that he went to Portland and revived his career. It is always fulfilling to see somebody who is that good has something taken away and then works hard to come back. I hope he does get to a real contender, but Portland is very good. It will be interesting to see what happens. I would love to see him on the Lakers. He was one of the best forwards that I ever played with. I’m really thankful to have had the opportunity to be teammates with him. 

What memories do you still have of the last game against Kobe where you won 90-87 scoring 8 points and getting 9 rebounds. Did you say your farewell to him?

I think that back then I didn’t really realize what had happened when the game ended. I wanted to talk with him after the game, but I didn’t have the chance, because he was being bombarded by so many people. Early in my career, we had the same agent, so I had had some meetings with him. The main thing on my mind after the game wasn’t a farewell, but him signing my shoes. I never did get my shoes signed. Now when I look back, there were moments where I wish I would have had the courage to say something. For me moments are worth more than a signature. I have a pic with Kobe. I don’t think that I even have a pic with Lebron. I wish Kobe was still around and could explain to young guys why it’s so hard to be great and that success doesn’t happen overnight. I think that in the last 30 years, there have only been 2 guys with that incredible work ethic with Jordan and Kobe. I saw it with Kobe, because I worked out with him. 

In the 2014-2015 season you played with the Sacramento Kings (NBA) playing 71 games averaging 8.5ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 69.1%. What kind of experience was it playing there and how vital was it having the presence of Rudy Gay on a daily basis?


Rudy is another one of those guys that I respect very much. He took me under his wing right when I arrived and I looked up to him. You tend to watch players that are the same height. He really helped my game a lot. He could score with the best of them. He came off a tough injury and fought his way back and now is with the Spurs. I’m glad he is able to play aggressive again. He was quiet, but a real competitor and a good guy. 

You played 3 seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves and put up consistent stats from the start. How key was head coach Rick Adelman in your early development that allowed you to become a solid NBA player?

He was tough on me. I remember when I was drafted by Minnesota that my agent told me that he would be tough on him. Gerald Wallace also had my agent and he also had seen what coach did when he was a rookie. It was good having a coach like that as a rookie. It helped me mature more. I think when you look at guys today that are 18 or 19, they just play through their mistakes. Coach was more strict. I learned that you always have to try to make the right play and just strive not to make mistakes. 

You played with many vets that aren’t playing anymore today like Brad Miller. Was there in particular one guy that really helped you adjust in your rookie season?


I’m glad you mentioned Brad Miller. He had played with Adelman years earlier in Sacramento. I remember the first thing that Brad said to me was ‘How old are you’? 19. He then snapped his fingers and said ‘don’t worry you will be 30 before you know it. I remember when I was a rookie not stretching and running up and down the floor and dunking like it was nothing. He was an allstar without athleticism. We always worked out and always stressed working on my game. He said that if you can shoot then you can play for any team. I remember the Lakers-Kings battles when I was a kid which Miller was a part of. He did a good job helping me become a better pro when I was frustrated. Everybody needs that veteran to look up. I had him. 

You were teammates then with a young Alexev Shved. Does it surprise you today that he belongs to the best in the Euroleague?


No it doesn’t. I remember seeing him in the Olympics. He is a very good player that wasn’t able to showcase his game in the NBA. He just made the best out of his situation. He is one of the best scorers that you will ever see. I remember Minnesota signing Kirilenko when he was struggling because he knew no English. Whenever I return to Russia, I always go out to dinner with him. We always have an excellent time. His English is excellent now. You can talk to him about anything. I almost signed with Khimki last summer. I wanted to play with him.

How proud are you still today that you were the 2nd pick in the 2011 NBA Draft that had guys like Kyrie Irving, Kemba Walker and Kawhi Leonard. Is that evening a blur today or do you still have vivid memories of that?


That was the best time of my life. I still remember the night well. I worked hard for it. I remember people saying that it would be a weak draft, but it wasn’t. That was the first year where there were a bunch of Europeans drafted in the first round. People were hating on the Europeans, but we had an amazing class. I still talk to guys from that class today. Last season I was teammates with Jan Vesely. We reminisced a little last season about our careers. He has made an amazing career. Just because you didn’t play in the NBA doesn’t mean you can’t have an amazing career overseas. 

You played 2 years at the University of Arizona leading them to the NCAA Elite 8 in 2011. You have played so many games in your career, but is watching the upset over Duke which had 8 future NBA players including Kyrie Irving where you steered home 32 points a game you can watch anytime?


I don’t watch the whole game now, but in the past I have watched parts of the game. This is one of those games that I will never forget and one that will forever stick with me. I still get thanked from Arizona fans today for having such a good game. Many have said that was one of the best Arizona games in many years. It helped me get drafted at #2. You need to be around good people who know how to make the right decisions in big moments. A few weeks ago, my trainer and I were listing all the Duke players that reached the NBA from that team. 

Did you ever watch the tough 65-63 loss to UConn again or has that been one of those games that you just never touched on again and how long did it take you to realize that you were playing against Niels Giffey when you played Alba Berlin for the first time. 


My first thought when I saw the back of Giffey’s jersey was wait a moment I have seen this guy before. It had been a long time, but then it came back to me. He won it twice which is amazing. I never watched that game again. I remember picking up 2 quick fouls. If I watched it again, I already would know the outcome and still be nervous.

You had Kyle Fogg as a teammate who has been a great player in Europe and China. When you look at his crazy talent can one say that there are simply too many talented guards in the world and too little NBA spots?


Yes that’s true. He works out so hard. There are many guys that are in the NBA, guys that have been in the league 10 years that don’t have his work ethic. He is one of those guys that when things go wrong, he can find a way to make it go right. I played against him in China. It had been a long time since I had seen him last play with Arizona. I’m glad that he is doing so well. No matter where he plays he will help that team be successful. He is also a big reason why I was drafted so high. At Arizona we went from 16-14 to 30-8 my last year. He was so important for our success being in the starting lineup and setting the tone on defense. He also has gotten so much better now. What he is doing now, he couldn’t do at Arizona. That is just a testament to how hard he works. I wish that we could be on the same team again. 

How did head coach Sean Miller groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

He was tough on me. He wanted me to play the 5 when I got there saying that the team and I would benefit from it. You could talk to him about anything. I think that he was surprised that I only was 2 years at Arizona. We both thought I would be there 4 years, but sometimes things change quickly. Nobody expected the NBA to come in a 2 month time. I was still maturing and was talking about getting a house off campus for the team and a week later I was gone preparing for the NBA draft. He really helped me reach a point that both of us never would have thought would have been possible. I always respect coaches who will push everyone from 1-15. The best thing that he taught me was good isn’t good enough. Even when I thought that I was working hard, he got you to work even harder. I often think what if I had remained 3 or 4 years at Arizona. 

Who won a one on one in practice you or Solomon Hill?


We split. He is one of my best friends. He just had a baby. We were roommates freshman year. We had some good battles. Everything he earned came with hard work. Whatever coach asked him to do, he would do it.

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

Jimmer Fredette. He had an unbelievable run in college basketball. I loved being his teammate on the Knicks. He can shoot from anywhere on the court. That is how good his range is. Plus he is an awesome guy

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time)

Ricky Rubio (one of best teammates I ever had. All he did was throw me lobs my rookie season)

Kyle Fogg

Solomon Hill

Lebron James

Kevin Love (he was a big help my rookie season. He is best example that you don’t need to be athletic to be a great rebounder)

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


Kobe, Lebron, Jordan, Shaq

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


That is difficult because there were great players in each era. You can’t debate change in the game and so much has happened in the last 30 years. Each generation has had it’s own GOAT

What was the last movie that you saw?


Safe House with Denzel Washington. I have seen it like 50 times. It is one of my favorite movies.

Thanks Derrick for the chat.