is a 26 year old 190cm guard that has the American and Ghana citzenships and playing his first season with KIT SC Karlsruhe (Germany-Regionalliga) and tearing up the league averaging 22,5ppg, 4,4rpg and 3,6apg. He grew up in Hackensack, New Jersey and played at William Pater. (NCAA3) form 2012-2016 and as a senior played 25 games averaging 21.3ppg, 6.7rpg, 3.0apg, 2.2spg, 0.5bpg. In 2017 he was drafted by the London Lightning (NBL Canada,1rd (11), but never played a regular season game. He is playing his rookie season in Germany and spoke to germanhoops.com recently about his basketball career.

Bright thanks for talking to germanhoops.com A few months ago you were second on the Daily leaders of points at eurobasket.com with 46 points. How does that make you feel getting exposure like that. Do you hope that you name was somewhat passed around after your performance last weekend?

Thank you for the opportunity to be interviewed. Seeing my name on the daily leader board has been a big accomplishment and a very proud moment for me. I definitely hope that my performance will bring me more exposure and connections. 

You hit an amazing 46 points in a huge 122-55 win over Mannheim. You also nailed 10 three pointers. You had a monster season at William Paterson (NCAA3), but was this your highest point total and most three’s you have ever made in a game at any level? 

I’ve had some high performing games but this by far has been one of my highest point totals along with the efficiency of the three pointers. 

When did you know in that game that you would have a great scoring day? Did you feel any different going into the game than usual or was it just that normal game feeling?

Leading up to the game, I put a lot of extra work in. I felt confident in my preparation and excited to get on the court. I would say it was a normal game day feeling. Working on my shot and my touch definitely contributed to my performance. 

You scored 46 points in 28 minutes. Did you ever wonder how many points you may have had had you played 7-8 minutes more? You might have hit 60. Would you have liked to have played more?

I actually asked myself that after finding out I scored 46 points. I didn’t realize I scored that much, but allowing my teammates that don’t play a lot to get in the game was more important to me. 

You finished school in 2016 and didn’t play your that first season and left Canada after pre season last season. How difficult were the last two years not knowing if your professional career would ever take off? 

The past two years were extremely frustrating because I knew I was able to compete at a professional level, but I continued to be overlooked and was never given an opportunity. 

Did you ever have ideas about quitting basketball and doing something else? What kept your basketball dream alive in the last two seasons? 

I graduated with a degree in Business Management, which is also a passion of mine. I’ve thought of becoming a real estate agent and actually took courses to become certified. However, something always pulls me back to basketball. It’s my true passion and something I would love to do for my career. I’ve trained hard during the last two seasons and I would say what’s kept my dream alive has been the support of my friends and fiance. They have encouraged me during my lowest of times and helped me to remember how bad I want this. 

Your playing your first professional season with KIT SC Karlsruhe (Germany-Regionalliga). Your tearing up the league averaging over 20 points per game. Did the two long years of waiting spark something special inside you that has helped you have such a fine rookie season?

I’ve always had a drive to succeed and prove myself on the court. I had the opportunity to play in a league called Pro City in New York City. I got to play alongside NBA players and I’ve always known I can compete against high caliber players. 

You had a solid career at William Paterson (NCAA3) and had to wait two long years to start your professional career. How large is the chip on your shoulder and do you feel like it will always be there as proving yourself to others will most likely continue as you climb the basketball ladder? 

Since coming from William Paterson, I’ve felt I’ve had to prove myself. I felt underrated because people judged my skill level based on the name of my college. I always feel I must do more than the next guy to stand out because I know I am able to compete among the best. 

KIT SC Karlsruhe (Germany-Regionalliga) is having a very good season, but Speyer is in your way for moving up. What has been the key for the team being so successful this season?

I feel the team has a diversity of talent. We all bring something unique to the table and our style of play compliments one another. I also feel our Coach Jaivon has strategically implemented a plan that has helped our team grow and thrive this season. 

How confident is the team of it’s chances to move up and what does it have to improve to be able to pass teams like Speyer and Koblenz? 

I feel during the beginning of the season, our two losses hurt our chances from moving up. However, we are confident and hope that those teams slip up to increase our chances. It hurts but I know at this point all we can control is how well we play for the remainder of the season. 

Let’s talk about your teammates. How pleasurable has it been playing with 38 year old ex German national player Rouven Roessler? He doesn’t seem to be aging at all. Does he ever mention how long he still wants to keep playing?

Rouven is a really good player and mentor. I’ve had the pleasure of learning from him as an offensive player and from his high basketball IQ. There’s a joke between him and myself about how old he is but we have never talked about when he would stop playing. 

It is very rare to see two guys averaging over 20 points a game at any level in German basketball. Talk about your relationship and is there one true go to guy or is it both of you?

I feel as a team, our style is fast. This allows us to get a lot of shots up. Although Rouven and I have two different styles of play, I feel we compliment each other in the game. I don’t believe there is a go-to guy. As a team, we end up going to whoever is having a better game that day. We have built trust and I think it shows. 

What do you like most about Rouven Roessler’s game? He is a very good shooter. Do you get tips from him on shooting or other aspects of the game? 

I feel Rouven is a great shooter, crafty on the offensive end, and has a high basketball IQ. I feel he has definitely helped me in reading the game and knowing when to slow it down. 

What has been your impression of German talent Eyke Prahst? Where will his journey go? Does he have the drive to continue to develop and play at higher levels or has he chose a job and playing basketball more for fun?

Since the start of the season, I have become close with Eyke. He is a really good kid and a good basketball player. After his injury, he is focusing on recovering and is working hard while studying for the university. He is working on getting back to health and getting back on the court. Even before his injury, he was in the weight room and gym all the time. I still believe he wants to continue and get to higher levels. 

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm shooting guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit that description?

I feel my NBA comparison would be Victor Oladipo. I feel we share the same work ethic on the court and continuously working to improve our game. We are both 6’4 combo guards who can direct offense and score. Regarding defense, we play with high intensity and focus. 

You’re a very good shooter, but what other aspects of your game do you do you show that wouldn’t let anyone ever believe that you are only a one dimensional player?

I pride myself on being a versatile player on the court. Although I’m a great shooter, I’m able to drive to the basket while also creating shots for the team and myself. My defensive style is also just as strong as my offensive skill set. I can defend the toughest of players, which can be critical during tough games. 

How do you continue to develop your biggest weapon your shot besides just taking more reps and better shot selection? Do you ever work on your shooting mechanics if someone gives you a tip? 

I watch great shooters on how they get to their shots and their mechanics. 

What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn’t get noticed right away on the court?

My athleticism doesn’t always get noticed right away. People are surprised that I can jump with the highest of jumpers. 

How important has head coach Javion Harris been in your rookie season? What have you appreciated most about his coaching abilities? 

Coach Jaivon has played a huge role during my rookie year. He has helped me to understand the different style of German basketball and to adjust. I’m thankful that he allows me to be myself on the court and puts a lot of time in to get our team better.

Last season you were with the London Lightning (Canada-NBL Canada), but only in pre season. You were the 11th #1 draft pick of the NBL league. For me that would warrant a good future there. Why was your stay so short there and couldn’t you have been picked up by another team?

As a rookie, I learned politics plays a big role as well as who you know. The London Lightning were the defending champions and they kept the same roster. I recently met my agent David Saltzman this year, who has been instrumental in getting this opportunity for me. I feel if I would have known him then, I would have been picked up by another team.

Your from Hackensack, New Jersey which is a 10 minute drive from New York city. How was your childhood and when did you know that basketball would play a big role in your life?

I had an amazing childhood growing up and played every sport including basketball, soccer, and even American Football. However, playing basketball was my biggest passion. I had interest in high school for American Football but I knew I found most enjoyment in basketball. 

What kind of dealings have you had with professional players from your area in New Jersey? I know that Jordan Theodore lives one town over in Englewood. 

Being right next to New York City, I’ve been able to compete with some of the best basketball players around. Many of us share the same basketball trainers. Jordan Theodore and I actually both train with Leo Jones, who is a well known trainer in New Jersey. I look up to Jordan and feel motivated to get to that higher level. 

After finishing at William Paterson (NCAA3) in 2016 you didn’t play professionally in 2016-2017. What did you do that year and why wasn’t professional basketball in your cards yet? 

Without proper representation and not having an agent, I was unable to get a opportunity. Teams didn’t know who I was and I felt underrated coming from a division three university. 

You played at William Paterson (NCAA3) from 2012-2016. What was your fondest memories there? Possibly reaching the NJAC Tournament Final in 2015? 

It would definitely have to be the bonds I created with my teammates. Traveling on the road and getting to know each other, has left me with lifelong friends that help support me even today. 

You won the 2015 All-NJAC Defensive Player of the Year award. What does this award mean to you coming from an explosive offensive player?

I would also say winning defensive player of the year was a huge accomplishment for me. I felt my hard work was finally paying off and I was being noticed. That award means a lot to me because I take pride on playing both ends of the floor. I want teams to know I’m more than just a scorer but I am also a lockdown defender. 

In your senior year at William Paterson (NCAA3) you played 25 games averaging 21.3ppg, 6.7rpg, 3.0apg, 2.2spg, 0.5bpg. Talk about your individual highlights in your senior season and how did you develop as a player that season?

My senior year was one of the hardest years at William Paterson, 3 games into the season our head coach was fired and 3 of our starters went out with injuries right after. I was forced to carry the team during the season and it helped me develop my offensive game and my leadership.

How did head coach Brian Chapman groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career at William Paterson (NCAA3)? 

Coach Jose Rebimbas played a big role regarding my development and helped me become the player I am today. Coach Chapman also allowed me to be myself on the court and entrusted me to lead our team. 

Who won a one on one in practice you or Terrik Bridgeman? 

I would say me but if you ask Terik I’m pretty sure he will say him (haha). But he is a real talented player and my closest friend still today. 

Who was the toughest player you ever battled on any court anywhere that made it to the NBA?

I played against a lot of good players that made it to the NBA but I would have to say Kyrie Irving was the best. 

If you had to pick your personal favorite starting five of teammates over the years which players would you chose?

1-jaques conceicao, 2- myself 3- Terik Bridgeman 4-Davon Daniels 5- Eyke 

If you had to construct your very own NBA mount Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick? 

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson, Magic Johnson

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James?

Michael Jordan by far! There should be no comparison- not even close!!
When all is said and done, could Luka Doncic be one of the greatest European players that ever played in the NBA?

Luka is going to be one of the greatest players of all time when it’s all said and done. 

What was the last movie that you saw? 

Bird box

Thanks Bright for the chat.

Ishmail Wainright is a 24 year old 196cm forward from Kansas City, Missouri playing his first professional season with the Nuernberg Falcons BC (Germany-ProA) and helped lead the team into the playoffs averaging 11,5ppg, 7,6rpg and 3,0apg. He began his basketball career at Montrose Christian School and then played 131 NCAA games at Baylor (NCAA) from 2013-2017 and as a senior played 35 games averaging 5.5ppg, 5.1rpg, 3.2apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 68.3%. He recently spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball. 

Thanks Ishmail for talking to germanhoops.com You are playing your rookie season in Germany for the Nurnberg Falcons. How blessed do you feel being able to play the game you love for a living?

EXTREMELY BLESSED to play the game I love all around the world. 

It has been an up and down season for the Nurnberg Falcons. It started well with a three game winning streak, but since then it’s been up and won with the team never having more than a two game winning streak. Why has the team not been able to go on a run?

This league has many great teams and great coaches that work day in and night to win games. Sometimes games go our way and sometimes it doesn’t. Maybe our run is coming up soon. 

How much potential does the club have. It has a nice mix of some very experienced German players with Ohle and Schroeder as well as young talented Germans and talented imports. What is this team still capable of achieving?

*We are capable of many things. We just have to come out every night to prove that we are one of the top teams the league. 

Talk about the positives and negatives of having two fellow rookies on the team with Jackson Kent and Juwon Parker? What do you appreciate most about their games?

I believe Jackson has one year under his belt and he’s helped me out the most while being over here. Making sure my confidence is up and stays up. He’s a sharpshooter slasher! Having Juwan is something different because I’ve been playing against him since 4th grade. Now to have him on the same team is even better. I know his game and he knows mine. 

Talk a little about talented young Hungarian Marcell Pongo. He is a great guard that has a huge future ahead of him. What has stuck out most with his game that you have appreciated as a guy coming from the NCAA?

Pongo is a tough guard ! A passionate guard that wants me to win every time he touches the floor. He can see the court so well it’s crazy. Some of the passes he makes are just unbelievable. 

The Nurnberg Falcons have a lot of very talented young Germans with Moritz Sanders, Ben Gahlert, and Matthew Meredith. Despite being a rookie, are you able to pass on your basketball IQ having experienced a different kind of basketball in the NCAA?

Yes , everyday. I try to help them see what I see while I’m on the court and they do the same. That’s really an everyday thing. 

What kind of experience has it been learning from German coach Ralph Junge. He is known as having developed countless young players in Germany. How beneficial has his presence been for your early development overseas?

With this being my first year in Germany, Ralph has helped a lot. I mean a lot a lot because basketball is just different. He’s helped with just understanding the style and the movements with and without the ball. The automatic reads on the floor. 

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard that can do many things on the court. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

Draymond Green. I’m a ‘tweener’. Between a 3-4 the can bring the ball up the court, rebound, hold positions 1-4, and do whatever else you need me to do. 

You had no adjustment period as you have had a solid rookie season despite not playing basketball last season, but playing football at Baylor. What were the most difficult things to get back used to after playing football?

My weight. realizing that most players aren’t as strong as I am so I can use that to my advantage.

There have been guys that have played in Germany that also played football in school. Talk a little about the positives that your abilities with football have that helps your game as a basketball player?

Strength is really the main thing. 

You never averaged in double figures at Baylor, but are doing so as a professional. Did you always know that you could be a scorer at the professional level?

Yes but when you are playing with Pros like Isaiah Austin (China) , Corey Jefferson (NBA), Brady Heslip (BBL), Royce O’neil (NBA), Taurean Prince (NBA), Johnathon Motley (NBA), And Rico Gathers (NFL), and others, I didn’t need to score in my mind.

You’re a guy that can do a lot on court. What are your biggest strengths on the court?

I’ve always been a defender. It’s just in my blood. Watching Tony Allen lock up the NBA just fired me up. I want be that player that stays on the court because he can hold the other team’s best player from start to finish. Rebounding and just getting my teammates involved. I love when my teammates score. 

Your shooting under 30% this season as a rookie, but shot 40% once at Baylor. How much of a work in progress is your shot in general? Is this something that you feel can become more of an asset as you continue to grow as a player?

Iit’s just reps right now. The more reps I get, the more consistent it will be. I haven’t touched a ball in a year and a half. I’m back and it’s time to work even harder. Yes I feel like it can be more of a shooter.

You were able to improve your rebounding totals in your last three years at Baylor (NCAA) and are averaging more than 7 this season. What has been your secret to your consistent progression as a rebounder?

It’s just a mindset. You aren’t going to stop me from getting that ball off the rim. If you do, believe me, I won’t stop going after it. And that’s the mindset you have to have.

You can fill the stat sheet like no other, but what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn’t get noticed right away on the court?

I’ve always pride myself on deflections. I want to get the most deflections and at a high rate too. It’s just something that’s followed me throughout college. Even in practices I do the same.

On what things are you working most on your game so you will continue improving as a basketball player in the next years?


Consistent Shooting and Ball handling. And knowing my scoring spots.

You had a stellar career at Baylor (NCAA) reaching the NCAA Sweet 16 twice. Which run was personally sweeter for you? In 2014 or 2017?

2017 because it was my senior year, I was the only senior and we were picked last in the BIG12, wasn’t even ranked in pre-season. They laughed at us man. We started that season off on a mission. Non conference was tough but we took care of everyone. Conference play was conference play. The Big12 was stacked from head to toe. Everyone wanted us to lose in the first round of the tournament. We fought until the end.

In your freshman season you had some very good players as teammates with Brady Heslip, ex NBA player Cory Jefferson, Isaiah Austin, NBA player Royce O’ Neal, NBA player Jonathan Motley, and NBA player Tauren Prince. How much fun was it being a freshman that season?


That year was a grind. Practices was by far some of the toughest practices ever. We were all fighting for playing time. I loved every bit of it too.

Which player from these guys did you see as being the guy that would most reach the NBA and who was most influential for you being able to get accustomed to the NCAA in your first season best?

Zeke (Isaiah Austin) hands down. But things didn’t go as planed. He should be in the league right now. I feel like he deserves that. Real Deal (Royce), because he had the whole package. Could shoot, dribble, play defense , and just everything. And till this day I feel the same. We talk almost every week. Just checking on each other. He started here in Germany in the BBL and look where he’s at. I’m not saying it could happen to me but you never know what the future holds you know. God works in mysterious ways

You played a season with the talented Belgium national player Manu Lecomte who is currently having a solid G-League season with Agua Caliente. Do you see him being the next Baylor NBA player soon?

He better be ! He is NICE !!! The things I’ve seen him do on the court was unbelievable!! Seeing him go off for 9-10 straight 3s in practice.

You had many very good games in the NCAA, but which one was your personal most memorable game? Possibly your 15 point game in the win against Kansas State?

Louisville game for sure !

How did Scott Drew groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

He treated us like professionals since day one. Talked to us like one. Worked us like one. He used to tell us, ‘ You guys want to be professionals someday, you have to walk, talk, eat, work, and take care of your bodies like professionals do!’

Who won a one on one in practice you or Royce O’Neal?

The funny thing about that is, we’ve never played 1 on 1. But we will this summer when I see him. But it is always a battle whenever we face off

You had a stellar high school career at Montrose Christian. Obviously Kevin Durant stands out as the greatest basketball player that went there, but did you ever hear stories from Jason Conley who led the NCAA in scoring as a freshman? He had a great career in Europe and played many years in Germany. 

I wish. I heard many stories from STU VETTER , Coach Shopland and Dan Prete about KD. KD never really came around much when I was there.

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

Buddy Heild. I had to know where he was at ALLLLLLL TIIIMMMEEEESSSS !!!

If you had to pick your all-time best starting five of teammates which 5 guys would you chose?

Kenny Cherry , Ish Wainright, Royce O, Taurean P, Isaiah Austin.

If you had to pick your very own NBA Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick?

Scottie Pippen, Lebron James, Tony Allen, Magic Johnson

What is your personal opinion of the neve rending debate about who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?

I saw the Wizards Jordan. Not the Bulls. Lebron is my favorite player, he just needs more rings

What was the last movie that you saw?

Creed II and it was great. Powerful movie. Going to watch another one tomorrow with the wife and little man also. That’s a every night thing to be honest.

Thanks Ishmail for the chat.

Julian Scott is a 28 year old 203cm forward from Sacramento, California that is playing his fifth professional season and first with the Dresden Titans. He began the season with BC Prievidza (Slovakia-SBL) playing 13 games averaging 7.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 2FGP: 54.2%, 3FGP: 60.0%, FT: 66.7% Last season he played with the Iserlohn Kangaroos averaging 14,0ppg, 7,1rpg and 1,1apg. In 2016-2017 he played in four countries with Germany, France, Luexemburg and in Iraq. His last team was Residence Walferdange (Luxembourg-Total League) where he averaged 17,0ppg and 8,2rpg. In the 2015-2016 season he played for the Uni Riesen Leipzig playing 23 games: Score-5 (20.4ppg), Reb-2 (10.5rpg), 1.7apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 17.9%, FT: 66.7%. He picked up Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Forward of the Year -16, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro B 1st Team -16, and Eurobasket.com German 2.Bundesliga Pro B All-Imports Team -16. As a rookie, he played for TSV Quakenbrueck (Germany-2.Regionalliga) playing 16 games averaging 29.7ppg. He started his basketball career at Yuba junior college and then played two years at S.Utah (NCAA). He finished at Adams St. (NCAA2) playing 27 games: 10.8ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 70.2%. He recently spoke to germanhoops.com during the playoff chase which in the end wasn’t rewarded about his new challenge in Dresden

Julian thanks for talking to germanhoops.com This is our tenth interview since the 2015-2016 season. You are in your fifth professional season. Do you feel like you will make it to 10 professional seasons?

Hmmmm I’m not sure if I will depend on my body and life situations off the court so we will see what the man upstairs has planned for me.

Welcome back to Germany. Your playing with the Dresden Titans this season. You started the season with BC Prievidza (Slovakia-SBL), but came back to Germany. Could Germany ever become your first home sweet home or is Sacramento forever home?

I love Europe of course but Germany will have to always be my side chick my man. I’m a Caliboy

You had played in France and Luxemburg, but what kind of experience was it playing in Slovakia? How would you compare the style and competition level there to the German Pro B?

Regarding Slovakia it is good basketball over there especially playing with one of the top clubs there so I was definitely pushed to be better everyday. I would say it’s about Pro A Germany level

You stayed only a few months with BC Prievidza (Slovakia-SBL). Talk a little why it didn’t work out there. Do you feel like you got a fair chance there?

Honestly no they made a mistake they admitted to making a mistake and ended up letting my replacement go in the end also. So it’s fine business is business you move on.

It seemed like the club had many Americans there. Did you get a little lost in the shuffle?

Yeah we had 6 foreigners there so I just tried to be as efficient as possible with my time playing and I believe I did that so I can live with it.

You played for head coach Michael Claxton who has coached in Germany. He probably had remembered you from Germany. Was it the end just a numbers game?

Honestly could have been but playing 12 mins a game averaging 9 and 4 rebounds a game on 55% shooting idk what more someone can really do in that time. Haha but it’s fine he has moved on just like I have.

How vital was it being teammates with American veteran Delvon Johnson? What do you feel was the most important things you could soak up from him that will continue to help your game?

Oh easily Delvon main skill was defense and being able to pass the ball out of the post to find open guys. He was more defensive minded and I was offensive so I definitely took in a better defensive mindset mentality as well as just moving the ball and not always thinking attack as soon as it touched my hands. Great guy.

You signed with the Dresden Titans in December 2018. How did the contact come about and what was the deciding reason for you returning to Germany?

It was all on my agent he told me about some solid situations but Dresden fit the best and they were in a bind just like me so we made it happen

Currently the club is battling for the last playoff spot. How confident are you that the club will make the playoffs and not have to play in the playdowns?

You have to be confident or you have no chance it’s going to be a battle I haven’t been in a situation like this before so it’s a new challenge and I’m going to try and give my guys the best version of me to give us our best chance to make it.

The team has been very up and down. Why has the club continued not to be able to find consistency this season?

Its just been a battle new coach new import new plays it’s never really picture perfect in the beginning. Usually you need more time to build chemistry and gel with your team so it hasn’t been easy but it’s alright we all support each other playoffs or playdowns that’s all that matters. 

Which win was more spectacular for you the win against Wolfenbuettel or against the ETB Wohnbau Baskets?

Wolfenbuttel for sure weird way to win a game throwing it off someone’s back in a out of bounds play but I’ll take it haha

Janek Schmidkunz was injured for a long time. How vital will his sniper qualities be now in the down stretch period of the season?

Janek is my guy one of the big reasons I came to Dresden. I knew he was hurt so tried to help hold down the fort until he got back. I feel like with each game that goes by he just gets better and better being back to his normal self and we need that if we’re going to have any chance at pulling this of

How much of a pleasure has it been able to share the front court with German Helge Baus. What do you appreciate most about his game and is he more than just a Pro B quality player?

Helge is a very good player smart and very good all around can shoot good post game. I want him to be more aggressive sometimes because we need that and he has been more and more so love playing with him

Let’s talk about your game. Your play as always has been very good and consistent. How pleased have you been with your game this season with the Dresden Titans?

Ehhhh I’ve been just okay I could be more efficient overall for my team. I feel like they haven’t seen the best version of me yet. I hope to bring that in the next games to come though.

Your playing many more minutes with Iserlohn this season. Has it been a tough adjustment continuing to be as efficient as possible with more playing time?

I love playing so the more minutes the better. I wouldn’t say it’s hard being efficient it just means be useful with your time because just 3 months ago I wasn’t getting the minutes I wanted so I had to be efficient so I try to keep that mentality going into being here in Dresden still can definitely improve overall.

In our last interview last summer you stated that you were ‘mentally stronger understanding more and more what it is to be a true professional regardless of your situation’. What strides have you noticed you doing this season with your experience in Slovakia and now back in Germany?

The biggest stride I would say is just my patience. The game is starting to slow down for me a bit so I can see things more and make better decisions with the ball. Before I was always just attack attack attack and that’s okay from time to time but I think I’m a pretty good passer and I like showing that skill to get my guys going whenever I can.

Last season you seemed to have more scoring options so you learned to share the load. This season you have more of an offensive responsibility. Is this really the type of situation that you feel most comfortable in?

Honestly I don’t feel that pressure having to score. We have guys that can do plenty of it especially when there on a roll I’m just trying to be what they need me to be while I’m here scorer rebounder block shots get steals a little of everything. I’m just comfortable playing I believe if you keep me out on the court good things will happen more so than not but I guess every player feels that way haha.

Your three pointer continues to be a work in progress. What things are you doing specifically this season to continue to improve in that aspect of your game?

Brotha I’m telling you I’ve been working on that damn thing like crazy it’s just a confidence thing with me I think. The team trusts me to shoot it when I’m open so I’m just trying to knock em down as much as possible I feel like Shaq at the free throw line and he says “I’ll make em when they matter” lol

Please name your five all-time best teammates in college and pro’s

Brandon Shingles Sasha Ahnsehl Ramell Taylor Tim Derksen and Chris Nsenki

It’s still so early, but when all is said and done could Luka Doncic be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA? 

Definitely he will be

What was your reaction when you heard that Lebron James named himself the greatest of all-time? 

Kobe Mj then Bron Bron

Charles Barkley recently proclaimed that Tom Brady Is more of a GOAT than Michael Jordan. Do you share his opinion?

Yes Tom brady is I agree

Tom Brady won sixth Super Bowl. Where will he be if he wins a seventh next season?

The same level he is the goat no one is going to touch his record I dont believe

What was the last movie that you saw? 

Aquaman

Thanks Julian for the chat. 

                It´s March and it´s time again for the NBBL playoffs as many teams battle for the ticket to the 2019 NBBL Top 4 tournament in Jena. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners had a very strong season clinching the group 2 regular season title with a record of 14-2 losing only to Giessen and Hagen. They arrived into the playoffs sporting a potent four game winning streak as they had their defense on track as they stifled their opponents and averaged giving up only 60 points per game with their aggressive press and stingy zone. They came into the playoffs having one of the better starting five´s in the league and a very solid second unit. Their opponent were the Piraten Hamburg who also had a solid season finishing in fourth place in group one with a 9-7 record. They started the season off slow losing their first three games, but then found their rhythm winning nine of 11 games. Hamburg is a very good offensive team, know when to defend well when they have to and are the sixth best rebounding team in the NBBL averaging 40 boards per game. They don´t have that massive dominating big man that will clean up in the paint, but benefit from the hustle and athleticism from their wings Linus Hoffmann and Alexander Postic. The Piraten Hamburg came into the playoffs having lost their last two regular season games where their offense stalled averaging only 60 points per game while Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners wanted to defend their home court advantage and get off on the right track in game one. The Piraten Hamburg had big misfortune that three of their top players Alexsander Postic, Emil Marschall and Leevi Erkkilae were missing because of injuries and sickness and thus the club was without 40 points that they usually average per game. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners took advantage of this by annoying them with their trap defense and strong offense securing game one 93-45. After the win 2017 JBBL finalist Calvin Schaum who was the game´s second top scorer with 16 points reflected on the win. “We defended very well and our trap worked well. Despite them being without three players, we didn´t want to give them any hope of having any chance of winning here. This was a good first step for us. We played sloppy at times and had too many turnovers, but overall we had good ball movement and got good pressure from the bench. We will see a different game in Hamburg. They won´t let themselves loose by 40 points again. I´m sure that they will make adjustments”, stressed  Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners forward Calvin Schaum. It was a disappointing loss for the Piraten Hamburg and head coach Torben Haase was not amused about the 37 team turnovers. “We were without three players so we knew it would be difficult. We did not come to terms with their intensity and pressure. We had way too many turnovers which didn´t give us any chance of getting back into the game. We allowed too many points inside. We have to be tougher”, warned Piraten Hamburg head coach Torben Haase.

                        The Piraten Hamburg got off to a quick 4-2 lead 1as 6 year old Nikola Sredojevic and 16 year old Moritz Kroeger got aggressive and scored inside. But the Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners trap defense was aggressive and tough and quickly led to two steals from captain Alvin Oniya and Len Schoorman which led to a hard one handed dunk by Schaum and a lay in by ex BC Darmstadt guard Maxi Begue and suddenly Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners led 8-5. Despite the good defense that Frankfurt was playing, Hamburg was able on occasion to break the trap and regain the lead again. Kroeger scored again and 17 year old 186cm point guard Semjon Weilguny who began his career with the SC Itzehoe youth teams hit a trey and Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners trailed 10-8. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners offense was still trying to find it´s self and slowly did they were able to break free somewhat going on a 9-1 run to lead 17-11. In the run Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners got vital support from ex BC Darmstadt guard Maxi Begue who inserted his floater, ex BC Darmstadt forward Risto Vasiljevic dropped a trey and Schaum and Oniya dropped free throws. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners led 21-13 after 10 minutes. “We started slow because we had never played against them before and had prepared for the whole team. It took some time to get used to them, but we did find ourselves near the end. We discovered their strengths and weaknesses”, stated Calvin Schaum. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners shot 38% from the field and 14% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 8 turnovers while the Piraten Hamburg shot 42% from the field and 14% from outside and had 5 rebounds and 9 turnovers.

                                                 In the second quarter Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners broke away from the Piraten Hamburg as their offense finally started to click as they hit the Piraten Hamburg with a lethal 12-0 run to extend their lead to 33-13. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners started to connect from downtown as Schaum nailed consecutive three´s and Len Schoorman also delivered a trey while Maxi Begue made a steal and coast to coast run and lay in. The Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners ball movement was exceptional which produced open look after open look while their trap defense continued to give the guests fits. The Piraten Hamburg continued to not be able to muster much offense against the Frankfurt press, but when they did beat it, they missed many open shots. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners continued to play their game and run up the lead with their potent offense. It also helped Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners that they got good production from many players like Jordan Samare who as always was aggressive in the paint scoring twice while Begue continued to use his strength with the floater as did Vasuljevic who refrained from his lethal three for a moment and followed Begue with a floater also. 16 year old Fredrik Fischback made a steal off his aggressive defense and went coast to coast for the lay in and 41-17 Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners lead. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners continued to get great support from everyone as they got buckets from 18 year old Leon Pullen and a deep three from Vincent Dietrich while the Hamburg got baskets from 16 year old 200cm 114 kilo German Fabien Kondo and a basket from Linus Hoffmann. “The score could have been a lot different had they made more open shots. We gambled at times going into the passing lanes which left guys open”, added Calvin Schaum. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners shot 52% from the field and 36% from the three point line and got 20 rebounds and had 16 turnovers while the Piraten Hamburg shot 31% from the field and 13% from the three point line and got 14 rebounds and had 17 turnovers.

                                            In the third quarter the Piraten Hamburg got off to a quick start, but Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners then totally went off on the guests with a scorching run that gave them the lead by 39 points. The Piraten Hamburg came out with some energy in the third quarter getting a lay in from Linus Hoffmann who began his career with the Bramfelder SV and another trey from Weilguny. Hoffmann belongs to the top players of Hamburg, but couldn´t take responsibility and lead his team the way he would have liked to with three players missing. Hoffmann finished with 8 points and 5 rebounds and reflected on his game after the game. “It was a tough game. I´m used to playing pick and roll with Justus Hollatz, but it was difficult today. I could have done more. I felt like I did a good job helping the guards against the Frankfurt press. I should have talked to coach to ask for some more plays for me”, added Linus Hoffmann. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners went on a run of 20-0 on 8 stops to extend their lead to 68-29. The club got good aid from Len Schoormann who contributed 7 points with two steals and two thunderous dunks while Vasiljevic dropped back to back three´s as the Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners ball movement was overwhelming the Hamburg weak defense. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners also got support from a Jordan Samare lay in and Begue lay in. 17 year old 178cm guard Kenned Vietz finally broke the massive Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners run with a trey, but Schoormann countered with a trey giving Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners the 71-32 lead. The Piraten Hamburg closed out the third quarter strong even if Frankfurt had done the damage with two baskets from 18 year old 210cm center Nicolas Aldag who even flashed a hook shot, but Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners led 73-36 after three quarters. “We have had problems starting well in the third quarter the whole season. We continued to play good defense so their 5-0 run wasn´t that bad. We then went on a big run and decided the game”, stressed Calvin Schaum. “We showed a lot of inexperience against their press defense and weren´t tough enough on defense”, added Linus Hoffmann. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners shot 52% from the field and 45% from the parking lot and got 28 rebounds and had 21 turnovers while the Piraten Hamburg shot 34% from the field and 17% from the parking lot and got 21 rebounds and had 28 turnovers.

                                                 Nothing changed much in the fourth quarter as Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners continued to score well, while they gave up the least points of all quarters in the game with only 9 to win with ease.  Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners went out on a fast 6-1 run to extend their lead to 79-37. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners got buckets from athletic 16 year old Isaac Ibanor, Oniya and Samare all in the paint as there was little resistance form Hamburg closing up the paint. Aldag then countered with a trey. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners lost a little focus as unneeded turnovers popped up every so often, but still played good enough closing out the game well with a 14-5 run. In the run Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners continued to play hard and aggressive at both ends. A Fischbach steal led to a hard Begue two handed dunk while Schoormann produced another three pointer. Vietz got Hamburg´s last points with a trey and Fischbach also added a trey ending the game. “They could have been a little tired in the fourth quarter. They played with a small rotation and at times with three bigs which we took advantage of with our agility”, stated Calvin Schaum. “We were tired at the end. Weilguny wasn´t totally fit either. We had many injuries, but we fought hard. We had a bad shooting day and had too many turnovers”, stressed Linus Hoffmann. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners were led by Len Schoormann with 18 points. Calvin Schaum added 16 points. Maxi Begue chipped in with 15 points, Risto Vasiljevic contributed 14 points and Jordan Samare had 10 points while the Piraten Hamburg were led by Semjon Weilguny with 10 points. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners shot 49% form the field and 41% from outside and they got 40 rebounds and had 25 turnovers while the Piraten Hamburg shot 32% form the field and 19% from outside and they got 28 rebounds and had 37 turnovers.

Every year Franz Wagner seems to get taller and also a bit more masculine. Two years ago, he was a tall 15 year old kid that helped Alba Berlin win the JBBL(U-16) title in Frankfurt. Last season, the 16 year old helped Alba Berlin defeat Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners in the playoffs in route to helping Alba Berlin win the NBBL(U-19) title in Quackenbruck. Now at age 17, he hasn´t only made a name for himself in Germany, but also in Europe. He has started games for Alba Berlin, played Eurocup and showed just how talented he is for his age, but at the end of the day he is commonly know as the little brother of Los Angeles Laker Mo Wagner. A week ago 24 hours after helping Alba Berlin reach the Eurocup final in Andora, Spain, he wasn´t tired enough not to play game one of the Pro B playoffs against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors helping the team to a 78-58 win netting 10 points in 24 minutes. Wagner was back again a day before a big BBL game in Bamberg, only a two hour drive from Frankfurt as it was Lok Bernau with the second best offense in the Pro B averaging 84 points per game against the number one defense in the Pro B with the Fraport Skyliners Juniors who give up 71 points per game. In the past, the Fraport Skyliners Juniors have survived do or die games, but also faltered and against Lok Bernau, the team definitely needed a lot of luck and a little of the basketball God on their side to force a third game in Bernau next weekend. But at the end, it wasn´t the Fraport Skyliners Juniors that had the luck, but Bennet Hundt who had been cold all night long finally found the ocean as he dropped a huge three propelling Lok Bernau to the 84-76 victory and on to the semi-finals. After the win an elated Quadir Welton reflected on how Lok Bernau was able to get by the Fraport Skyliners Juniors. “Key for the win was being patient and believing in each other. We played good defense and controlled the pace and didn´t get sped up”, stressed Quadir Welton. The season of the Fraport Skyliners Juniors ended, but they gave a good fight for 40 minutes, but missed that one extra three and a few stops to force a game three. “We made too many small mistakes and didn´t finish the plays the way we should have. We didn´t score enough in both games to have a chance to win. If you can´t score 70 points, you will have problems winning. We were too slow getting loose balls. We lost to a very good team”, stated Fraport Skyliner Junior Tobias Jahn.

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The quest for the 2019 easyCredit BBL playoffs are still as alive for the Fraport Skyliners just as it is for the Florida neighbors Miami Heat and Orlando Magic who are battling for that last eighth spot in the East. The 2016 Fiba Europe Cup winner Fraport Skyliners have understood the severity of their current position as they have to win very many games until the end of the regular season if they want to book one of the last tickets for the playoffs. They have played a lot better in the last weeks having won three of their last four games and currently were riding a two game winning streak. They also have found back to their old ways of defending consistently as they have averaged giving up only 70 points per game in the last two. But their path didn´t get any easier as many tough games awaited them like Rasta Vechta who have little experience in the BBL, but this season have surprised everyone as they have turned into the little darlings of the league as they have played brilliantly resting in fourth place with an 18-7 record. Their success can be credited to Spanish head coach Pedro Calles who has put his own stamp on the success in which he has led a club of no superstars, but hungry players that play for each other and defend with passion something that BBL clubs have moved away from in the last years. The Fraport Skyliners were lucky that they caught Rasta Vechta early in the season as they hadn´t found their rhythm or chemistry yet and beat them 87-83 for their third straight loss. Since that loss the club turned it around winning 18 of 22 games. In that game Frankfurt rebounded very well, but despite coughing up the ball 18 times played smarter in crunch-time to escape the Rasta Dome with the win. The Fraport Skyliners have a new face as some players have departed and went into the game living off the momentum of their two game winning streak while Rasta Vechta was reeling off their shoot out loss to Bamberg. Rasta Vechta came into Frankfurt with a lot of self-confidence and gave an offensive clinic while playing aggressive defense for 40 minutes with heart that tore apart the Fraport Skyliners in the second half winning 100-80. After the big victory veteran TJ Bray who finished with 14 points and 9 dimes explained why his team was able to win another game in their Cinderella season. “We played with a lot of intensity and hard for 40 minutes. We play 24 seconds at a time. We might not be able to have everything come together at once, but if we keep grinding then we are confident that we will come out on top. It was a real team effort and our defense was on the same page. Our success starts each day with coach Calles and filters down to every player”, stated ex Princeton(NCAA) guard TJ Bray. It was another tough loss for the Fraport Skyliners as each loss puts a huger dent in their playoff hopes. After the disappointing loss, Jason Clark tried to dissect the loss as best as he could. “We were down by 8 at half-time, but they stepped up their defense in the second half and we had too many turnovers. We got good shots, but they didn´t fall. Turnovers really hurt us and they did a good job scoring off them”, explained ex Georgetown guard Jason Clark.

3,500 fans came out to witness a rare Friday night game and also see the return of German talent Niklas Kiel who last strapped on a Skyliner jersey 315 days ago. He was still a bit rusty getting 2 boards, a steal and a turnover in 12,41 minutes, but it was good to see him back and getting the trust of head coach Gordon Herbert. Both teams offenses got rolling from the get go as lead changes were as abundant as the amount of baskets that Clint Chapman and Leon Kratzer were sharing in the first quarter. Both teams wanted to get both involved and they didn´t hesitate to produce. Chapman had 10 points while Kratzer had 6 points, 3 boards and a block after 10 minutes. “Kratzer´s put backs and dirty work that he did also helped keep Frankfurt in the game”, added TV Lich guard Jermale Jones. The other Frankfurt bright spot was Jason Clark who netted 7 points and had two dimes as he kept Frankfurt competitive. “He was aggressive and put his team on his back and put them in a position to win. He made shots and free throws”, stated TV Lich guard Jermale Jones. Rasta Vechta was playing solid team basketball on offense and totally perplexing Frankfurt with their defense with the ball pressure and help often getting them to make bad passes which led to turnovers. BBL veteran Josh Young who played three season´s in Tuebingen had a huge first quarter off the bench netting 6 points and getting three steals. “He gave a lot of energy and hit big shots. He is an older guy, but the way he can still move for his age is very good. He played tough defense and read the passing lanes well”, added Alabama native Jermale Jones. Frankfurt hit some big shots at the tail end of the first quarter as ex Auburn(NCAA) standout Quantez Robertson and ex Arizona State(NCAA) guard Tra Holder connected. After 10 minutes and 9 lead changes Rasta Vechta led 25-24. “It was a solid performance from both teams. Chapman started very well, but Frankfurt then got going. Frankfurt stayed together and got fast break points to stay in the game”, added Jermale Jones. Rasta Vechta shot 53% from the field and 50% from outside and had 6 rebounds and 2 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 50% form the field and 38% from outside and had 11 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

In the second quarter Rasta Vechta began with a 9-0 run to set the tone and get away from the Fraport Skyliners, but they couldn´t shake them off yet as they led only by 8 points at the break. Rasta Vechta broke away on a lethal 9-0 run to extend their lead to 34-24. In the run they got a lay in from ex Giessen 46er Austin Hollins, two buckets from ex Alba Berlin center Clint Chapman and a trey from TJ Bray. Bray was playing the way a point guard should looking to get his team involved first a she was getting little looks and then executing himself when he had a good opportunity. “I just took what the defense gave me. There are so many guys that can score on the team. One day I will be scoring while on the other day it will be passing. I don´t care about how much I score, but just that we win”, added TJ Bray. On defense the guests were playing hard nosed rattling Frankfurt´s offense as they were switching a lot with their defensive formations always keeping them off guard leading to turnovers or forced shots. The Fraport Skyliners had little offensive options as only Jason Clark and Quantez Robertson had the hot hands. Robertson nailed a trey while Jason Clark used his speed to get two baskets inside. Rasta Vechta had numerous offensive options and guys that hit their shots. MVP candidate Hollins dropped a three and snuck back door for two while Chapman drowned a 20 footer and Josh Young connected on a tough off balance shot in the corner. Rasta Vechtá offense was calm and patient and just worked hard for the best shot while Frankfurt didn´t have the same luxury as they couldn´t do that because of the Vechta unpredictable defense. Rasta Vechta led 43-35 at half-time. “Vechta did a good job trying to slow down Frankfurt. Even when Frankfurt started scoring after the Vechta run, they also kept scoring so Frankfurt couldn´t get closer. Vechta continued to do a good job to get Frankfurt to turnover the ball and got their bigs in foul trouble”, added Jermale Jones. Rasta Vechta shot 55% form the field and 42% from the three point line and had 14 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 41% from the field and 27% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

The third quarter was an offensive fest as a total of 56 points fell, but Rasta Vechta could finally break away as they rattled home 33 points to lead by 18 points after 30 minutes. Frankfurt never gave up and had good offensive moments with a Shawn Huff turn around shot and Clark trey, but they couldn´t play consistent defense which haunted them all night long. Every time Frankfurt got within 7-10 points, Rasta Vechta would hit big shots. Chapman continued to be a rude menace for Frankfurt as he hit from wherever he wanted. He made a floater, alley op tap in and a three. TJ Bray who had been kept in check well in the first half scoring wise became more aggressive and began to attack the rim more. He made a finger tip roll in for the 57-44 advantage, but Rasta Vechta was never home free as Frankfurt had enough energy to rally back. The cold Tyler Larson who scored only 7 points on 3/10 shooting nailed a trey that was followed by a Clark trey and suddenly Frankfurt was down only 57-50. Little mini runs would accompany each team. Rasta Vechta countered with Hollins and Bray baskets while Frankfurt got a Jonas Wolfarth-Bottermann tip in and Shawn Huff three to trail Vechta 63-55. Rasta Vechta then went on a back breaking 10-0 run as the clock work offense of Rasta Vechta continued to flourish as many guys produced. Bray scored in traffic again, Hinrichs made free throws, Young nailed a trey and ex Braunschweig forward Tyrone Nash made a lay in off a Hinrichs steal who fed him the shovel pass for the easy basket and 73-55 advantage. Rasta Vechta´s intensity never let up as their variable defense gave Frankfurt´s offense fits as they couldn´t establish a sound rhythm. Robertson closed out the third quarter with a trey, but Rasta Vechta led 76-58 after three quarters. “We didn´t play good defense in the first quarter. It got better in the second quarter and in the third we jumped on them with our defense. We didn´t let our offense dictate our defense. We played hard defense and our offense came”, stated TJ Bray. “We had too many turnovers and they hit tough shots. They went on another run and we couldn´t recover. We had too much mis communication on defense which led to open shots for them”, stressed Jason Clark. Rasta Vechta shot 61% from the field and 47% from the parking lot and had 20 rebounds and 9 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 43% from the field and 38% from the parking lot and had 26 rebounds and 13 turnovers.

In the fourth quarter Rasta Vechta would lead by as much as 25 points, but they let up a bit on offense, but Frankfurt couldn´t catch them in 10 minutes. After German Robin Christen connected on a 20 footer, both teams then relied on the long ball. Robertson dropped two trey´s and Rasta Vechta countered with a trey from Bray and Hollins as Frankfurt trailed by 84-64. After another Hollins three pointer and Nash lay in, Frankfurt trailed 91-66 and it seemed like they had called it a night, but they still had energy for a come back attempt. They found some added intensity and broke out on a 8-0 run to trail only 92-74. In the Frankfurt run, they got production from a Clark pull up jumper, Huff trey and Clarance lay in and free throw. Time was running out for Frankfurt as they simply had had to big of a deficit to be able to make any kind of serious dent in the Vechta lead. In the last minutes Rasta Vechta head coach Pedro Calles gave big talent 16 year old Luc Van Slooten extended minutes as he got aggressive and visited the free throw line three times. Rasta Vechta was able to get the 100 points on the last possession as German Robin Christen´s lay up was blocked, but ruled as goaltending ending the game 100-80 for Rasta Vechta. The ambitious Vechta team didn´t close out the game well and the team wasn´t pleased with it. “We weren´t happy with how we played the fourth quarter giving up that 8-0 run. It was good seeing Luc Van Slooten get minutes at the end. We got learning points in the fourth quarter, but it was important that we played hard for the entire 40 minutes”, warned TJ Bray. “We had a little run, but it wasn´t enough to get back. We got a little tired with their tough pressure for 40 minutes. We had to many turnovers. We have to learn to play better when we are tired”, warned Jason Clark. Rasta Vechta continue to live out their Cinderella season and they are the best example that you can be successful not having the best players. “They were clicking as a team. They played well on offense and defense and Bray was their engine. He infected his teammates to play hard for 40 minutes. They might not be the most talented team, but they play hard for 40 minutes and out work you”, stressed ex Georgetown(NCAA) guard Jason Clark. Rasta Vechta was led by Clint Chapman with 28 points Austin Hollins added 24 points. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Jason Clark with 27 points. Quantez Robertson added 17 points. Rasta Vechta shot 60% form the field and 48% from outside and got 29 rebounds and had 14 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 42% from the field and 35% from outside and got 35 rebounds and had 18 turnovers.

Quadir Welton is a 23 year old 203cm forward from Philadelphia that is playing his second professional season and first with SSV Lokomotive Bernau (Germany-ProB). Last season as a rookie he played with Centro Deportivo Rivadavia de Mendoza (Argentina-TNA) playing 43 games averaging 13.3ppg, Reb-5 (9.6rpg), 1.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.9%, FT: 44.8%.He began his basketball career at Math Civics and Sciences Charter High School. He played at St.Peter’s (NCAA) from 2013-2017 playing a total of 129 NCAA games and as a senior played 35 games averaging 12.0ppg, 8.2rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 46.7%, FT: 58.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball before begin of the playoffs.

Quadir thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Congrats on a good season with Lok Bernau. What kind of an experience has it been for you playing your second professional season in Germany?

This season for me has been a great experience for me on and off the court. My teammates are great guys and made the transition very easy for me coming to the team after they already played 6 games especially since I was the only American. I also like living out here in Berlin there is a lot of fun things to do and a lot of history here to see and good food haha. 

The team was a bit up and down when you came in, but strolled into the playoffs with a positive 9 game winning streak. What were the main reasons for the club going on this roll?

I think once we found our rhythm and the guys figured out how I played and I figured out how they played we clicked fast and I fit right in the system of how our coach wants us to play. Also everybody is unselfish and doesn’t care about scoring so that helps our offensive game and makes it easier for us to play good defense and now we found out how we want to play and we just are rolling right now. 

How much credit is seriously due for the success when one has to factor in that guys are moving in and out of lineups on account of the many BBL license players.

I think there should be a lot of credit due because we had to get used to not having a full team every game and relying on others to step up at certain times and we showed we could do that by winning games with only 6-7 players. I think it showed how tough and how much talent we have on our ball club and I want to give my teammates and coaches a lot of credit for that. 

What kind of experience has it been for you being able to practice and play with these very talented young German players. How do you feel did your game profit most from having these players around? 

The experience was great. These young guys are really talented and have bright futures ahead of them and from me playing against them I think it benefited both of us because we challenge each other everyday in practice and it only makes me and them better as players and as teammates. 

You start the Pro B playoffs against ratiopharm Ulm farm team Orange Academy and then the Fraport Skyliners farm team could be awaiting you. It could be a fest of young German talent for the next two rounds. How exciting is this for you to try to see if Lok Bernau is possibly the best farm team in the Pro B?

It’s extremely exciting one because it’s the start of the playoffs and two because I know they will bring their A game just like we will. I can’t wait to get on the court and see us go against this other young team it should be a fun game for both teams and we will soon be able to see who is the better farm team. 

Let’s talk about your teammates. You played 5 regular season games with Mo Wagner’s brother Franz. Is he the real deal? How good is he and how have you seen him develop this season? 

Yes Franz is the real deal. He is very talented and has a high basketball IQ at so young of an age and he is also a very good shooter and knows how to finish around the rim. I only played 5 games with him and practiced with him a couple times so I can’t say I really seen him develop but I can say when me and him play together we play well and have a good connection on the court.

Another guard who has made big strides is Jonas Mattisek who has gotten better BBL minutes this season. How good is the Lok Bernau offense when he is on board? 

When we have Jonas we are a better team no doubt. He brings that energy and defense to our team when he plays and when he gets it going from 3 it’s hard to guard us. 

The club has many young Germans, then there is you as the lone import and then there are the two ex BBL veterans Nicolai Simon and Robert Kulawick. How important has it been having this balance on the team for success?


I think our team balances out well with Nico and Kula being our veterans with a young team I think you always need some veterans who can guide and help the team in certain situations and also bring some leadership. 

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? 

I would say I play like an old school power forward so probably my uncle Rasheed Wallace or Chris Webber. 

How influential has a guy like Rasheed Wallace been for you growing up as a basketball player? Are there any special tips he gave you that you feel really helped your game? 

My uncle has been a big influence on my life growing up and seeing him going to the NBA inspired me to play basketball and get better. Yes he gave me a few tips that he said I should worry about when becoming a pro and showed me some moves and few ways to guard my defenders on defense. I also worked out with him for a little bit during the summer and that helped improve my game

You’re a player that can score and rebound the ball well. What other strengths does your game have? 

Another strength some people may not know is my passing. I’m a really good passer and passer out of the post. Also I’m good at getting steals with my quick hands and long arms 

You don’t shoot the three ball. Is this something that you will incorporate more into your game in the next years as you continue to develop at the professional level? 

Yes I will work hard on my jump shot and incorporating the 3 in my game so I can become a better player and so I can play at the next level. 

You are a consistent and efficient offensive player this season. Is this something that you were able to grow at St.Peter’s (NCAA)? 

Yes I grew into that type of player my junior year of college when my coach gave me the chance to be a leader for my team and make decisions either passing or scoring the ball.

How much pride do you take on defense? You have proven in school and as a professional that you can be that reliable shot blocker. Is playing defense like second nature to you?

I take pride on defense and I want to become a better on ball defender so I can guard multiple positions and blocking shots was always a second nature to me and I think I can become a better shot blocker 

What do you feel is a hidden strength in your game that is off the radar for many on the court to see? 

My passing I think is off the radar. I don’t think people really notice it.

You began the season with the Worcester Wolves (United Kingdom-BBL) but left in October. What lessons did you learn from this short experience being in the UK? 

Unfortunately I never actually got to play or go to the UK because of my visa not making it on time.

Last season you played with Centro Deportivo Rivadavia de Mendoza (Argentina-TNA) playing 43 games averaging 13.3ppg, Reb-5 (9.6rpg), 1.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.9%, FT: 44.8%. Usually Americans go there at the ending stages of their careers and one don’t see guys going there as rookies. What kind of experience was it playing and living in Argentina?

For my first season I think it was good. It’s a lot different from Germany but I feel like it prepared me for Germany also. Playing there was a lot of fun. The fans are really into the games and show a lot of support, and I also got to play against a lot of very good and older Americans and that made me step my game up. Living there was great because it was summer time so I had two summers for the year. 

What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Argentina where you knew that you were very far away from home? 

I didn’t have my wake up call there, but I had it my first week in Serbia where I first started. It was tough for me there especially being alone my first time out of the country but when I was in Argentina I had another American and it made it easier for me. 

Sometimes Americans are the lone player on a team, but you had two Americans. How vital was it having a guy like rookie Casey Jones as your teammate? Did each other’s presence make the whole rookie experience a lot easier? 

It played a big part, because me and Casey became really good friends and it helped us on the court and allowed us to play better. Also it made it easier living there because you have someone to talk to and do different activities when you get bored. We had a fun rookie year. 

You played at St.Peter’s (NCAA) from 2013-2017 playing a 129 games. What were your fondest memories there playing in the NCAA? 

One of my best memories in college was playing against some high major colleges such as Seton Hall, Notre Dame and Maryland. But I would have to say the best memory is when we won the CIT tournament and I got MVP to finish my last college game. 

You had many memorable games at St Peter’s, but would the wins against Niagra and Fairfield rank as some of your best there? 

Yes those games are some of my best but my best game to me was against Boston University where I scored 11 straight when we was down 11-0 

You played three seasons together with Elias Desport. What were your fondest memories with him at St Peter’s and did you keep tabs on his play in Germany this season?


My fondest memories with Elias was my freshman and sophomore year where he helped me out a lot in the weight room and on the court and also in the summer time where we stayed together for offseason workouts and we did a lot of stuff working on our games and having fun going to NYC and other fun places around our college. Me and Elias still keep in contact and we both keep tabs on our season here in Germany and talk to each other about the games. 

How did head coach John Dunne groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career at St Peter’s (NCAA)? 

He prepared me best by allowing me to lead my team my last two years and that allowed me to embrace a bigger role and improve my game on the offensive end. Coach Dunne also helped me with my emotions and telling me things I can do to become a be leader vocally and become a better leader vocally and by leading by example. Those are characteristics I think many professionals have’

Who won a one on one in practice you or Samuel Idowu?

In practice I would win the matchup but Sam is a very good player and got better every day from us battling against each other 

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA that’s in the NBA now ?

Angel Delgado was the toughest matchup.

If you had to pick your personal favorite starting five of teammates over the years which players would you chose?

PG. Trevis Wyche SG. Desi Washington SF. Casey Jones PF. Marvin Dominique C. Myself 

If you had to construct your very own NBA mount Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick? 

Kevin Durant, Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant 

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James?

I think Michael Jordan is still greater than Lebron because of the titles. Lebron in the end of his career will probably have the better stats but if he doesn’t win it doesn’t mean nothing to me. 

What was the last movie that you saw? 

Creed 2

Thanks Quadir for the chat.

is a 30 year old 203cm forward from Queens, New York playing his eighth professional season and first with Rasta Vechta currently averaging 10,5ppg, 5,4rpg and 1,4apg. He began the season with Prienu Skycop (Lithuania-LKL). It is his third stop in Germany after having played in Tuebingen and Braunschweig. He started his basketball career with Notre Dame (NCAA) in 2007 and played 118 NCAA games until 2011 and as a senior played 34 games averaging 9.5ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 68.9%. He started his professional career in 2011 with the Walter Tigers Tuebingen where he played for three seasons playing 99 BBL games and in his last season there played 33 games averaging 10.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 68.4%. In the 2014-2015 season he played for SPO Rouen Basket (France-ProA) playing 11 games averaging 8.3ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 55.1%, FT: 50.0%. In 2016-2017 he returned back to Germany in 2015-2016 to play for the Basketball Loewen Braunschweig (Germany-BBL) playing 34 games averaging 10.9ppg, 6.1rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 24.0%, FT: 66.7%. He played the last two years in Israel and last season with Ironi Nahariya (Israel-Winner League) playing 28 games averaging 8.7ppg, 6.5rpg, FGP: 59.5%, FT: 61.8%He spoke to germanhoops.com after returning back to Germany.

Tyrone thanks for talking to germanhoops.com It has been almost been two years since our last interview. How basketball time flown in the last two years for you?

A lot! I have played in 4 different countries in the past two years. Crazy to think about.

How good is basketball life for you now coming from Lithuania to Germany where your playing for one of the hottest teams in the easyCredit BBL?

Life is real good. Anytime you are able to come into a positive, winning environment it is a blessing. The intensity and passion from the organization, to the players is contagious and great to be a part of.

How tough were the last two seasons for you. Last season you began in Turkey and went back to your old club in Israel and this season had a very short stay in Lithuania and had to leave again. How do you explain the massive fluctuations in the last two seasons when you look at your first five professional seasons where you played with one team per season?

Honestly, Turkey started out really well. We had a preseason cup where I played really well and helped my team reach the next stage of the cup. And then I’ll never forget the first game of the season, I go into halftime with 20 points and 5 rebounds. And, the first play out of halftime, I get a steal and race towards our basket. I go up for a dunk and I guess I was going so fast that my momentum took me past the rim. I slipped off the rim and came down on my back and head and boom, lights out! I wake up some minutes later with everyone standing around and I’m confused as to why they were standing around me in the middle of a game. I wanted to get back up and play but then I saw all the blood and everyone cautioned me to stay down. I got stretchered off and went to the hospital with a concussion and broken finger. I rested for a week, and then came back to practice. The team definitely rushed me back too fast. Understandably with a broken finger on my shooting hand, I wasn’t able to perform like I was before my injury and the team let me go. Fortunately, I was able to go back to my former team in Israel. And this year, in Lithuania, it wasn’t the right fit for me. I barely received a chance to prove myself at all. But it was a blessing, because I got to back come here to Germany into a much better situation. Moral of the story is that injuries are tough and if you as a player don’t heal fast enough to be able to perform at a high level, teams more than likely will quickly find a replacement.

You began the season with Prienu Skycop (Lithuania-LKL). It seemed like you and other American Austin Arians didn’t get a real chance. What went wrong with this situation?

Yeah, I am not sure what were the organizational/team goals for this season in Prienu. It was one of the weirdest situations I have ever been in, not really being given a chance to play and not being paid. I was lucky enough to always have been paid pretty much on time prior to Lithuania but I guess just add that to list of ‘overseas experiences’. 

Arians followed you to Germany and is playing in the Pro A with FC Schalke. Did you guys get a special bond in the short time you were teammates. The situation surely must have been more difficult for him since he was a rookie.

We were able to talk some but I could tell it was a tough situation for him. All I could really tell him was to not let this one experience keep him down and to remain positive.

Congrats on the great season your having with Vechta. You have a 9-1 record sicne you arrived. Can you remember ever being so successful so quickly with a team in your career?

Never! Haha. And let me tell you, it’s a way better feeling when you are winning consistently.

Does it feel like a real Cinderella story or do you feel like as competitors you would be selling yourself short knowing the potential the team had. 

Yeah, everyone calls us the ‘Cinderella’ team and I don’t know if we really like that title. We have believed in ourselves the entire time, even if others did not since Vechta’s track-record in the BBL wasn’t always great. You ‘reap what you sow’ and this is just a testament to all the hard work each player has put in day in and day out.

You have found ways of wining in so many ways if it was through defensive battles, scoring shootouts or close wins which occurred three times. Half way through the season what do you feel is the teams biggest strength?

Definitely our intensity and defense. Some days, shots won’t fall but we can always rely on our defense to either keep us in a game or bring us back into a game. I feel it’s tough for teams to compete with us for a full 40 minutes, intensity wise. I think it’s great that we are winning in a variety of ways, that only bodes well for us later in the season.

Years ago winning in Bamberg would have been unheard of, but even now it’s no easy task. I won’t even do research and check if you won there with Tuebingen, because I know you didn’t win there then, What did it feel like winning in Freak City? How big was this win for the team? 

Besides Ulm, I believe Bamberg was the only team I had not beat in the BBL. With all the history of great teams they have had it felt good to go in there and win. That win was big for our confidence level as a group and is something we use to constantly build from.

How vital do you feel was the pick up of you? Do you feel the added experience and added depth at the forward position could be the difference between winning one and possibly two playoff series?

Yeah, I am trying to help this team in any way possible using my abilities and experience. When I arrived here, I could see they had a good thing going and I just wanted to come in a nd keep things moving forward. If playoffs are in our future, then I hope I can use my experience to help the team when as much as possible.

Vechta averages 83 points per game and allows only 77 points per game which is third best. What has been the secret to the success on the defensive end? 

Intensity! We compete so hard in practice that in games it comes as second nature to not let our opponent score. Each player really takes pride in trying to stop their man on defense and that is a great quality to have. It’s contagious too.

How vital has head coach coach of the year candidate Pedro Calles been? What has impressed you most about his coaching style?

For being a ‘young’ coach and with this being his first head coaching position, his intensity, passion and knowledge of the game is remarkable to me as a player. He pushes each of us to get the best out of each individual player. As long as we play hard, he gives us the freedom to play our game. As players, we really appreciate that.

There are no real super stars on the team. How key has the fact been that everybody has played for each other and that whole ego thing has been put aside? 

I think it is great having a TEAM. It really makes us dynamic as a group having so many weapons. You can only take away so much. And with the quality of players we have, we are smart enough to pick and choose our spots to attack.

Let’s talk about your teammates. TJ Bray brought experience and a special fire that really capitulated his game to another level. He was always a solid professional player, but he really made the next step with Vechta. What do you believe has been the biggest reason for his success? 

TJ really controls the game out there on the floor and picks defenses apart with his exceptional passing skills. Add that to his ability to shoot, attack the basket and defend that is the recipe of a confident, great player.

Even if there no super stars, American Austin Hollins has been that type of go to guy that has carried the team in his own way. How important has his leadership qualities been?

Austin can really shoot the ball! Once he gets hot, he is tough to stop. Add that to his great athletic ability to play above the rim and defensive skills especially to get in the passing lanes. Austin has a bright future ahead of him.

How important has Seth Hinrichs been for the success of the team. How valuable is his versatility and is he the classic example of the team glue guy?

Coming off of Pro A MVP honors Seth continues to impress me. I don’t think there is anything he can’t do on the court. He is a tough matchup for anyone and has motor that not many players can keep up with. Bright future ahead of him!

How important was the pick up of Max DiLeo for the Vechta defense? How has he made an impact on the defensive end most that has helped the team most?

DiLeo sets the tone for us on the defensive end. He works so hard on every possession which is contagious to everyone else. You have to match his intensity on the court or you will stick out like a sore thumb. And it’s something I can really appreciate.

How cool is it being reunited again with Josh Young. You guys were teammates in Tuebingen from 2011-2014. How has his game developed further since then?


It’s been great to be back with my homie Josh. The biggest thing I notice about Josh is that he appears to have that swagger/ confidence back in his game. Similar to what I saw during our first two years together in Tubingen. It’s good to see because when he plays with that swagger, he is hard to stop.

Let’s talk about your game. You have come in and gotten integrated very well with the team. How would you define your role with Vechta?

Like I said before, I am just trying to come in and not mess up what the team had going. Add my talents and abilities wherever necessary and help the team win. It’s been a different role for me playing the ‘5’ because I am not really a ‘5 man’. But I have been trying my best to play the position to the best of my ability.

How would you in general describe how difficult it is not only coming into a new situation, but into a big time winning situation?. How tough is it mentally having to deal with not stepping on any players feet and just trying to find your own role without disrupting the winning culture?

Integrating yourself on a new team is a process. I was lucky and blessed enough to come into a situation where the guys welcomed me with open arms and made the whole integration process very easy. While also giving me the confidence to play my game and showcase my talents.

You are averaging in double figures and averaging more than five rebounds per game. How content have you been with your play so far?

Ehhh, I’m my own toughest critic so I’m playing ok. I can always play better and I will continue to get better.

How do you feel has your game developed further in the last two years since you last were in the easyCredit BBL with Braunschweig?

I think poise and of of course experience. I finally got a chance to taste the playoff atmosphere while in the Israeli Winner League and also in FIBA competition. Those experiences you never forget and I am able to apply what I learn then to now.

You last played in the easyCredit in the 2015-2016 season. How has the league continued to develop in the last few years?

I feel like the whole marketing of the league appears to have got better. Using social media continues to be a big asset for the German BBL. In a country where soccer/football rules supreme, basketball is becoming more and more popular.

Your ex team Braunschweig is playing a great season. How excited are you to be playing them again this season and will you be extra motivated to win?

Yeah I see Braunschweig is playing great this year. Anytime you get to go up against your former it is great. I can’t wait!

Do you think that when all is said and done that Luka Doncic could possibly be one of the greatest Europeans to play in the NBA?

Yes, I believe if Luka continues to get better then the sky will be the limit for him. He is a remarkable talent, a once in a generation type of talent. It’s great to see.

What was your reaction when you heard that Lebron James named himself the greatest of all-time? 

Shocking! I am a Lebron fan and I would consider him, for the most part, to be a humble superstar. One who lets his numbers and game speak for itself and for him to say that out loud was a bit shocking. But hey, he is entitled to his own opinion.

Charles Barkley recently proclaimed that Tom Brady Is more of a GOAT than Michael Jordan. Do you share his opinion?

Charles and his brash statements! I think Brady is the GOAT for his respective sport and Jordan is the GOAT for his. I am lucky to have been able to witness their greatness in my lifetime.

What was the last movie that you saw? 

Bohemian Rhapsody.

Thanks Tyrone for the chat.

Skyler Bowlin is a 29 year old 190cm guard who is playing his eighth professional season and fourth in Germany and first with s.Oliver Wurzburg. The ex Missouri So (NCAA2) began his professional basketball career with BG Topstar Leitershofen/Stadtbergen (Germany-ProA) and then played three seasons in Denmark with Horsens IC and a year in Sweden with the Sodertalje Kings (Sweden-Basketligan). He played the last two seasons in Germany with the Giessen 46ers and last season with Science City Jena (Germany-BBL) playing 32 games averaging 11.7ppg, 2.9rpg, 5.1apg, Steals-5 (1.6spg), FGP: 38.1%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 80.9%. germanhoops.com has interviewed Skyler over the years from his time in Sweden to his BBL days in Giessen and did it again before the Fiba Europe Cup game in Wurzburg against the Bakken Bears.

Skyler thanks for talking to germanhoops.com How is basketball life treating you at the moment? You have some big games coming up?

Basketball life is good. We have really turned it around since early in the season and at the moment we are in a good rhythm so hopefully we can continue this the rest of the season. 

It has been 26 months since our last interview. I checked and it was when you were with the Giessen 46ers. How has time flown by in this time and has Germany become a second home for you now? 

Germany has been very good to me. I have been very fortunate to be able to play for 3 very professional clubs and have had a great experience for each one. 

In the last years you had a chance in January to rest during the easycredit BBL allstar break, but not this year. You have a huge BBL game Monday at home against FC Bayern Munich and on Wednesday a huge Fiba Europe Cup do or die game. Are the next days more stressful for you or more exciting?

I wouldn’t say the upcoming days would be stressful. I look at them as being exciting. Playing against Bayern Munich is always special because they are one of the better teams in all of Europe and we are right in the middle of the playoff race in the BBL The game against Bakken is also very exciting for many reasons as well. The opportunity to advance another round in the FIBA Europe Cup is very important to us and we are looking forward to the challenge.

Before we get to your current season let’s talk about the Fiba Europe Cup. You played at the Bakken Bears last week and lost a close battle 76-75. Despite playing two seasons in Denmark with Horsens IC and never with Bakken you were greeted very nicely there. Was that more because of the friendliness of Danish people or their memories of the two playoff series that you had against them?

It was actually 3 seasons in Denmark and battling against Bakken. I made a lot of great memories in Denmark and the basketball community there is relatively small so maybe it was a bit of both. My fiance is from there so we had a lot of family there as well as quite a few fans from my former club who came to support me and the team. 

If you had to guess what kind of a record that you have against the Bakken Bears what would it be? 

Thats a good question. Unfortunately I think they beat my teams more than we won. 

If I am not mistaken it’s 10-11. You had some real exciting games especially that first season in Denmark. You always had very good games and scored in double figures in 19 of the 21 games. How special were those games and going back last week to play them? 

The games against Bakken were always special. They are normally by far the best team from Denmark so it was always a big challenge playing against them. Thankfully my last year in Horsenswe were able to knock them out in the finals. 

Was there a game against the Bakken Bears that is most memorable from your playing days in Denmark? Possibly the 70-69win or 79-78 win with Horsens IC?

I think the most memorable game would be the game where we won the finals at home. I believe it was game 6 and we clinched the series after 2 years in a row of falling to them in the semi finals. 

Despite losing 76-75, s.Oliver Wurzburg are in the driver’s seat for the return game. I can imagine that the return game will be another very close battle. What do you feel will be key to getting the win? 

We definitely are expecting a tough battle again in the game back in Wurzburg. Hopefully we can make some adjustments and come out on top. Their biggest strength is their length and athleticism so we really need to box out and control the rebounds in order to win the game.

Was it difficult playing against the Bakken Bears and not having that kind of more central offensive role that you had with Horsens IC? Obviously s.Oliver Wurzburg have very much talent and with the big guard rotation you don’t get the minutes you once got in Denmark.

I wouldn’t say it is difficult in the role that I have now. We have a team here in Wurzburg where everything is spread out offensively and production can come from anyone on any given night. If anything, it takes pressure off of all of us because not one person has to carry the load. 

Let’s talk about the current Wurzburg season. The club had a tough start with a 4-8 record in 2018, but have picked it up in 2019 having a 8-3 record. What have been the reasons for the turnaround? 

We are really gelling together on both ends of the floor right now. We lost a lot of close games early on that maybe hurt our confidence and put us in a bad position. We seemed to have learned from our mistakes and found a good rhythm on both ends that has helped us be more successful.

s.Oliver Wurzburg have very exciting months ahead with the Fiba Europe Cup and BBL. The BBL schedule isn’t easy down the stretch, but no game is in this league. Is defending more consistently one of the biggest things the team will be working on to tweak? 

Yes, defensively is where we have really tightened up. We have to be tough on the defensive end if we want to win any game in the BBL.

How enjoyable and beneficial has it been for you being teammates with other guards Cameron Wells and Jordan Hulls and Brad Loesing. These four guys are a big reason for how successful the team will be every game. Talk a little about playing this aggressive style on the court? 

Playing with those guys has been a great experience. Each one of us has different strengths and can impact the game in different ways. I think we all work really well with each other. Any one of us can bring the ball up or play off the ball so it really gives the team a lot of options and takes the pressure off of one guy to take care of the ball.

Let’s talk about your teammates. What has been your impression of Jordan Hulls? Is he one of the best shooters you have ever seen in Germany? 

Jordy is a great guy. I have so much respect for how he works and handles himself on and off the court (Also, he just had his second child!! Congrats buddy!) His shooting ability is out of this world. I have never seen a guy be more consistent game by game. I would put him as a favorite in ANY shooting competition against anyone on this planet if I can be honest with you. I am that confident in him. 

Perry Ellis left and the team got Devin Oliver. How crucial will his play be for the success of the team down the stretch? He seems to have been integrated very well the last weeks?

Yeah, we definitely miss Perry because he was a heck of a player for us and a great person as well. Unfortunately, changes happen and we were lucky enough to bring in Devin which has been huge for us. He gives us a ton of energy and can play both sides of the floor at a high level. We are happy he is with us!

You have been reunited with ex Citadel (NCAA) standout Cameron Wells who was your teammate with Giessen. He played in Italy last season. How do you feel has his game developed since Giessen? 

It’s been great being back playing alongside Cam. Again, I think he and I really play well off of each other. We both can play on or off the ball and run the team if we need to. He has really progressed his overall game, but his reads off the pick and roll this year have been very, very good. 

How raw is young German Joshua Obiesie? He has popped up on a NBA Mock draft. What have you appreciated most about his talent?

Josh is going to be a great player. It has been a lot of fun having him on the team and seeing how he works and has been progressing from playing NBBL to the BBL. He is a big time athlete who can really get to the basket. He is working hard on all parts of his game and has a chance to be a big time player.

Let’s talk about your game. Your getting a few minutes less than you did in Giessen and Jena and your stats are down. How would you describe your role this season with Wurzburg? 

My role here in Wurzburg is very similar to how it was in Giessen. The system we have here doesn’t focus on one person. We really move the ball well and have guys at every position that can make plays and score. Each game is different for me. Some games I maybe need to score a bit and some games I need to be a distributor and focus on defense. 

You had a very strong season with Science City Jena last season. How do you feel has your game overall continued to develop in the BBL over the years?

I think my time in Jena really showed that I can run a BBL level team as a PG. I was the main ball handler there and I feel like I showed that I can lead a team in this league. Defensively is also where I think I have progressed. Each night in the BBL if you don’t defend you will lose and I have had to step up my game on that end as well. 

Your playing with very many talented guards this season and guys that can score. Is playmaking an aspect of your game that the Wurzburg playing style has brought more focus to than having to score the ball this season?

As I said earlier, each game is different here and some games being a distributor is what the team needs and that’s what I try to do. I just try to do whatever is necessary for us to be successful. 

Your turning 30 this summer. On what things are you working on most now during the season on your game that will help continue to improve your game?

Each summer is always fun because you get to work on your weaknesses and evaluate your game. I think just focusing on my jumper and really watching film and working on reads out of the PnR is something I can continue to work on as well as continuing to work on my body.

Please name your five all-time best teammates in college and pro’s

That is difficult.. I have been fortunate to have some GREAT teammates. My all time favorite would have to be one of my college teammates, Chris Scruggs. Whether he got 25 mins or 0 mins he was the most positive person out there and I learned a lot from him in that aspect. 

It’s still so early, but when all is said and done could Luka Doncic be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA? 

I hope he is. I am a big fan and hope that he continues to play well in the NBA. 

What was your reaction when you heard that Lebron James named himself the greatest of all-time? 

I like Lebron and think that he is probably the greatest. I don’t think that he had to tell the world himself that he is though not a big fan of that. 

Charles Barkley recently proclaimed that Tom Brady Is more of a GOAT than Michael Jordan. Do you share his opinion?

Whatever Charles Barkley says has to be true, right?! Haha

What was the last movie that you saw? 

‘A Star is Born’

Thanks Skyler for the chat.

Tobin Carberry  is a 27 year old 193cm guard from Hamden, Connecticut that is playing his fifth professional season and first with Bakken Bears (Denmark-BasketLigaen). He played his first three professional seasons in Iceland with Hottur Egilsstadir (Iceland-D1) where he led the league ins coring with 31,0ppg and also played with Thor Thorl (Iceland-Dominos League). Last season he played with Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 54 games averaging 14.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 49.9%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 80.7%. He began his basketball career with S.Connecticut (NCAA2) and then finished at C.W. Post (NCAA2) and as a senior played 27 games averaging 18.6ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 39.9%, FT: 76.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball before a Fiba Europe Cup game in Wurzburg, Germany.

Tobin thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Welcome to Germany. Is this your first time in Germany or did you make a visit the last years when you were balling in Europe?

You’re welcome and thanks for having me. We had a preseason game in Germany earlier this year in Rostock. We drove from Denmark. Rostock is in northern Germany so I haven’t seen too much yet.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? Do you have any friends or ex teammates that play here or have in the past?
Every country we have to go to through the Europecup I get on youtube and research the history and the sites the country has. My favorite part of playing internationally is traveling and taking pictures so I would say I know a good amount. I know Lamonte Ulmer who actually played for Wurzburg for two years. We are both from Hamden Connecticut so I know him pretty well.

Your playing your first season in Denmark with top club Bakken Bears (Denmark-BasketLigaen). What kind of experience has it been playing with a club that has won 15 league titles and 9 cups? What have you appreciated the most about having the opportunity to play for this top organization?
It has been a good experience so far. I hear a lot about top clubs being so focused on winning that the enjoyment of playing basketball is lost. Here you are treated good, it is very easy going and at the same time we win.

The Bakken Bears (Denmark-BasketLigaen) are a scoring machine averaging 102 points in the Danish league and 99 points in the Fiba Europe Cup. You have always been used to scoring which you demonstrated in Iceland. How special has this season been in terms of scoring and does it remind you a bit of the high scoring NBA atmosphere?

Before the season Coach Wich brought me in to play point guard and speed up the game. I have always been a good high paced player. Here we play twelve guys each game. I have not played a team yet who plays as many as us. Well Wurzburg has a big rotation and we meet them next round of playoffs. I hear a lot of the NBA comparison with us but we share the ball a lot more with different players averaging more and everyone playing lower minutes. 

Usually teams have 5-7 Americans, but the Bakken Bears (Denmark-BasketLigaen) have only three Americans, talented guys from other countries and especially talented Danish players. How important has this special mix of nationalities been for the success of the team?
I forget about this a lot because we have Ryan Martin from Great Britain. Michel Diouf from Senegal, and Tylor Ongwae from Kenya. For me I love learning about different cultures. They probably are sick of me asking questions about their cultures, countries and so on. But I am glad I have had a chance to be around them. I am looking forward to visiting Ryan in England and Tylor in Kenya.

Let’s talk about your teammates. How important has it been for the club having such a versatile forward like Ryan Evans on the team? What have you appreciated most about his play and him off the court?

Yes Ryan Evans is balanced player. Out of everyone on the team his game can be compared to mine when it comes to ‘getting you a bucket’. If it’s a one on one situation he can score it. Since we have a lot of guys that are good on our team we often move the ball around a lot and he can succeed in that too. 

How impressed have you been with rookie American Hayden Dalton? He had a great career at Wyoming (NCAA) and played NBA Summer League. Do you see him playing in higher leagues in the future?
Ahhhhhhhh man don’t get me started on Hayden Dalton. That’s my rookie lol. I can be a very quiet person until I really get to know someone but then when that person and me become friends, I don’t shut up. This describes our relationship. We talk junk to each other soon as we see each other. Some guys like playing basketball, then there are the guys who just fall in love with the process of becoming better. We always are in the gym together. If I came from second league in Iceland and worked my way up, without a doubt the sky is the limit for him. I would never say it to him though lol. Just like me he has been raised by two great parents and is a good person.

Two very vital players are Thomas Laerke and Adama Darboe. Please talk a bit about their importance especially their leadership qualities and how you have profited from their presence?

Of course everyone wants to win to better their own careers, but when you are around guys like Adama and Thomas and even Darko you want to win more. Denmark is home to these guys. They have pride. They want to win that sixteenth league title. They want to do something special in Europecup. So out of respect for them I work even harder to win.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard that is a lethal scorer. If you had to describe your game to an NBA player who would best fit that description?

That’s a good question. I always try to find someone who I play like. It is hard because sometimes I don’t even know my own game. I guess it can be a good thing that other teams have to respect everything guarding me. 

You’re a guy that can really fill up the stat sheet. You have averaged double figures stats in scoring and rebounding and post high assist stats. What other strengths does your game possess?
Yes I try to do it all. I can have a bad game in one aspect but make up for it in another. I take pride in doing something to help the team. It’s funny because I hear a lot about someone needing an easy basket to get them going. For me sometimes a good assist or a strong rebound can get my wheels going just as much as a basket. One thing I do want to get better at is talking. I am excellent in small settings but what’s going to really make a jump in my career being a PG is being talkative. By next season it will be much improved.

Your also a very good defender. How much pride do you take in defending and could one say that your defense can spark your offense on nights where you started slow?
My team last year in Finland was my best defensive year. In college and the pro am back at home I always defended the best player but last year that was actually my best part of my game. My team in Finland had some great scorers and ball handlers. I told the team don’t worry about me Ill just run around and find a way to be successful and help the team. My coach Joonas Iisalo was one of the tough coaches who you just wanted to win for. I learned a lot about being a team player that year and the way I help win games was to be the defensive stopper. This year we have Tylor Ongwae. Man he has taken that role and ran with it. We can score but having the ability to play defense when we really need it is key.

You were a big scorer in the NCAA 2, but exploded even more in Iceland. How do you feel has your offensive game improved since your Iceland days?
Yes My college coach wanted me to score even more. He used to bench me for not shooting more. I know everyone wishes they had a coach like that. Now I am a lot more efficient. I haven’t really been pulling out my step backs and dribble moves too much but rather playing more team basketball. I make a lot more winning plays. Knowing time and possession and knowing when to slow up and when we really need a basket.

In the Basketball Champions League you scored 21 points against Nes Ziona and led all scorers with 21 points. Does a game like this give you confidence when you realize that you outdueled a guy like ex NBA player Daequan Cook? Could you classify your self as a late bloomer. A guy that will continue to rise up the basketball ladder in the next years?
Ill start of by saying Daequan Cook is one tough basketball player. All of his shots were difficult and he still played under control and hit tough ones. He had Tylor Ongwae on him both games all game. Tylor did a great job and future teams should really be interested in him for the work he did in that series. Its always good to play against players like Cook though. I didn’t play aau and was six feet and one hundred thirty pounds my senior year in high school. I had an excellent senior year but was small and went division two. Had a great division career and was supposed to go to Hungary my rookie season. I wound up sitting out and having to start from the bottom in Iceland. My story has given me a chip on my shoulder to be able to look back on my life and say man I really worked hard for what I have. I am ready to succeed on a higher level as well.

Last season you played with the Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 54 games averaging 14.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 49.9%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 80.7%. After three crazy scoring years in Iceland, was it difficult getting used to a different style in Finland and not scoring as much as in Iceland?


Yes last year was the hardest year of my life. It’s was a big step up in competition. That year in Finland there were some really good players and teams. Our team won the regular season by a good margin too. You might say why was that the hardest year of my life. I didn’t talk too much about it but my left knee basically just died out on my after the first month there. We practiced hard and we had a lot of pressure to win. Plus it was cold and dark lol. I was away from my fiance, so all these factors came into play. What got me through that year were the Americans Salon Vilpas hired with me. Javontae Hawkins, Aaron Jones, and Jaylon Brown. Man we were so close. We all helped each other through our struggle. I am not a person to call many people bro or brother but this is an exception. We really became family after those nine months together. It was a tough year but I learned the most out of any season that year. Coach Joonas Iisalo has one of the best basketball minds I have ever been around and I loved how he runs his team. Then also Teemu Rannikko, I would always watch him and study him. He knew what was happening on the court before it even happened. In my summer workouts and open gyms I found my self mimicking him and it has made me a better point guard this year.

Last season you reached the Finish final losing 4-2 to Kauhajoki. Did the game six loss 99-96 where you scored 24 points take long to digest last summer? What memories do you have of that series and last game?

Yes only if you knew what we were going through at that time. With losing Teemu for the playoffs and some other unfortunate things we were really playing hard for each other. We had a crazy comeback. Jaylon Brown fouled out and he was upset so I told him don’t worry I got you. It almost happened as I played some of my best couple minutes at the end of that game. I think about that game and series probably two times a week still. I also wanted to be a part of Coach Iisalo’s first championship.

Last season you had Mikko Koivisto as a teammate who has played for great teams and played for the Finish national team. How important was his shooting for the success last season?

Man he can shoot the ball. We also had the team clown Juho who could shoot the ball. Me and Juho had a funny relationship. But having guys like that to make the court open up makes it so much easier. Mikko may not know it but I always watched him as well. I tend to sometimes have different shooting motions through out the season. Watching him have the same shot every time and perfecting it was key and it showed. That was the first year I was over fourty percent from three. Now this year it’s the same. I think it will be like that for the rest of my career.

You played your first two professional seasons with Hottur Egilsstadir (Iceland-D1). What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Iceland where you knew that you were very far away from home?

I didn’t have any wake up call at Hottur. I was a little upset that my first year out I should have been in a higher league but I would never take back playing for Hottur. Every organization should be more like them. It was my favorite place to be. I had one teammate from Hottur in my wedding and some others attending it. I loved it. Coach Viar Hafsteinsson was so passionate about his team. I loved winning for them. 

Both seasons you were the only American playing with Hottur Egilsstadir (Iceland-D1). Was that a bit a blessing in disguise as you could concentrate 100% on basketball or did you miss having that American teammate on certain days?

I fit in more with Icelandic people than any other kind of people. Like I said before I can be quiet and non talkative if I don’t know you. In Iceland they don’t let you stay in your shell. I am more than basketball. My passion besides basketball is in psychology and children. My dream job would be a Child Psychologist. In Iceland everyone is like family. Just because I wanted to, I took up coaching kids in my free time in Iceland. I loved it. Iceland was also good to my fiance. They made it home for her as well. 

In your third season in Iceland you played with Thor Thorl (Iceland-Dominos League) playing 27 games: Score-3 (27.7ppg), 10.4rpg, 4.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 83.3%. You won the Super Cup and reached the final. What memories do you have of this season and winning your first professional title?

This year was about playing for more than stats. We didn’t have that much talent but we were winners. We beat the powerhouse KR in the first cup and then lost in the second one. This is what made the Vilpas want me. Winning takes you up the ladder. Then I had to hit some big shots or big plays to win games. So my focus is just to win as much as possible. 

You had some crazy games in Iceland. You scored 50 points in a game, had a 38 point 24 rebound game and four triple doubles. What do you believe was your strongest personal game there?

Probably the 38 point 24 rebound and 8 assists. I did not know I was playing that well. When I get in the rhythm and start going I can really fill it up quickly. This game meant the most because people who are not in your organization or town can really put pressure on you in Iceland. If you lose or play bad it’s your fault no matter what in Iceland. I remember the first four games we won and the TV show was saying I was one of the greatest players to ever play in Iceland. The next two we lost and I didn’t even play that bad, they said maybe I should be fired. Then I go and do this the next game. My coach came in and said man I knew you would show them.

Often players will play one season in Iceland to get a feel of the European game and move on. You stayed three seasons and had massive stats. How important do you believe was it being three years there and do you ever wonder where you might be today had you only been there one season?

Well I almost had to because I was in the second league and we got a promotion to the top league. Not too many European teams would take a player out of second league Iceland so I came back. Our team could not win much in the top league so I had to come back the third year to win to move on and that’s what happened. I am not a person who has anything bad to say about a player staying in Iceland. It is a great place. You can be treated nicely and some teams can pay decent. Like I said I loved it.

You began your college career at S.Connecticut (NCAA2) playing 26 games averaging 19.1ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP; 43.5%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 81.7%. What memories do you have of that freshman season and why did you only stay one season?

My brother who played overseas was the assistant there. He is a big reason why I play basketball. He coaches at Yale now. I am forever grateful for that one year there to be with my brother and the head coach Marc Rybczyk. Rybczyk became one of the most influential people in my life. He made me much stronger physically and mentally. You only have a handful of people who believe in you the way you believe in yourself and he was one of them for me. Man he was always tough on me. To this day if I ever feel my self complaining whether a foul call or life in general I think of him and fight through it. This year he was diagnosed with cancer and had to take time off from coaching at Niagara. This hit me pretty hard this season but I have been talking to him and he is strong.

You then transferred to C.W. Post (NCAA2) and had a stellar career winning the ECC Tournament in 2011 and 2012. Which title was sweeter?

2012 was. That was such a good team. We played St. Johns in the big east and lost to them down the stretch and also beat some lower division one teams in preseason. 

How did head coach Chris Casey groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career at C.W. Post

Chris Casey was a family man. I spoke about the story about how he wanted me to shoot more and benched me for it. But what I learned most from him was off the court. I changed so much as a person under him. I was already respectful coming from two great parents but man to see him interact with others and caring for his wife and children showed all of us how to be life after basketball.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Billy Butler?

Billy was hurt much of my time in college. He had an unfortunate ACL injury. 

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA or in camps before turning professional that is in the NBA now?

I live in Hamden Connecticut and not to far is the Hartford Pro am which I love. It’s the most fun basketball. Talking junk with all your boys, and playing good competition. Kemba Walker was at UCONN and first couple Years in the NBA he would play in the pro am. The gym would get so packed. My teammates would be like put Tobin on him, he will shut him down. Man I would be trying my hardest to run full speed to stay with him but he would just be gliding. Shifty, fast, quick, IQ, pull up game, handle. He has it all

If you had to pick your personal favorite starting five of teammates over the years which players would you chose?

This is my favorite question by far. I think of this all the time. I would play me and Jaylon Brown at the one and two. Javontae Hawkins at the three. Aaron Jones at the five. And probably Ken Horton at the four. Kenny plays for Astana, he plays on my pro am team in the summers. Funny that three of my picks come from Vilpas but you could not have put together four Americans who gelled better than us on the court and off the court. We would beat everyone and have so much fun doing it.

If you had to construct your very own NBA mount Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick?

I stay out of these in lockeroom conversations because I like to enjoy each players greatness and not compare generations. The four players I youtube the most are. MJ, Shaq, Magic, and Kevin Garnett 

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James?

Again I hate to compare what we could never see but I would have to choose MJ.

You saw first hand how much talent Luka Doncic has last season. When all is said and done, could be on of the greatest European players that ever played in the NBA?


Yes he is a great player. When I was in Finland last year and they had the European games in the beginning of the year I went to some of the games. Luka played and so did Lauri Markkanen. Lauri is very skilled as well. He looked like a guard in a seven foot body.

What was the last movie that you saw?


Creed two. I watch it like very other week. It is so good lol. Michael B. Jordan is my favorite actor.

Thanks Tobin for the chat.