With the summer slowly winding down and  it is still warm and comfortable to wear shorts and a tee-shirt, the vicinity around the Dragon Dome in Rhondorf is bustling with more people and cars than in the dog days of summer and you see some team buses in the parking lot then you know it´s basketball time again. The 2019-2020 season hasn´t begun quite yet, but like every year at the end of August, it is time for the annual Gezeiten cup. The Gezeiten Cup is hosted by the Dragons Rhondorf and usually showcases two easyCredit BBL teams as this year it was the Telekom Baskets Bonn and s.Oliver Wurzburg and Pro A club Romerstrom Gladiators. In the two semi-final games on Saturday, fans witnessed two massive blow outs as The Telekeom Baskets Bonn scorched the Dragons Rhondorf by more than 50 points  while the s.Oliver Baskets destroyed the Romerstrom Gladiators by more than 40 points. The game for third place was won easily by Trier who crippled the Dragons Rhondorf and in the final it was a rematch of last summers final between Bonn and Wurzburg. This time thee s.Oliver Baskets got revenge from last year´s loss and dismantled the Telekom Baskets Bonn 89-72. Wurzburg won the title by playing their fast style and controlling the boards while the Telekom Baskets Bonn stunk up the building shooting a miserable 3/25 from the parking lot. After the contest game high scorer Noah Allen who played three years at UCLA was content with the team´s effort. “It was a good weekend. We are continuing to know each other better and it was a good test for our team chemistry. We played pretty well on defense and used our many offensive weapons and were able to run”, stressed California native Noah Allen. Ex NBA player Trey Mckinney-Jones wasn´t totally disappointed as he saw the team still taking strides in the loss. “Coach has told us the whole pre season that it isn´t about the outcome, but our focus is to improve each day. The season is still so young and everything is still very basic including our plays. Despite being short handed, I feel we picked up our defense. We were out of position a lot. I had to play the four a lot. It was a close game for the most part. We are getting better each day and we took a step in the right direction”, warned Trey Mckiney-Jones.

                s.Oliver Wurzburg took a quick 10-4 lead as their offense got going quickly taking control inside as they got easy buckets from ex Citadel(NCAA) guard Cameron Wells, ex Weber State forward Brekkot Chapman and ex Skyliner Johannes Richter while Noah Allen nailed a trey. Bonn had problems settling in on defense as Wurzburg hurried their offense to perfection. A trend that would be often in the game was when Wurzburg tried to get away, it was Mckinney-Jones that would hit a big bucket to keep Bonn close. He did it twice in the first quarter with a lay in and three cutting the Wurzburg lead to 17-12. The Telekom Baskets Bonn found some momentum in the last minute closing out the first quarter with a 8 -0 run to take the first lead of the contest at 18-17.Bonn severely upped their intensity on the glass and got a lay in by  Bartolo and vital offensive rebounds and put backs from ex Iserlohn big man Gabrieel De Oliveria and Montenegren forward Bojan Subotic who has won 10 titles in his career. The Telekom Baskets Bonn couldn´t get anything going from outside shooting at a horrible 1/9 clip. Their timely baskets inside in the last few minutes kept them afloat in the game. Rookie Chapman had 6 points to lead the charge while Mckinney-Jones also had six points.

                The second quarter was a real dog fight as no team could escape from the other. S.Oliver Baskets regained the lead again in the first minute relying on their deadly guard shooting as Mr 50/40/90 of the past five years player Jordan Hulls hit a three while Chapman scored at ease again while ex Nurnberg guard Nils Hassfurter stroked home a jumper on the fast break as Wurzburg led 27-21. The Telekom Baskets Bonn stayed on the heels of Wurzburg, but couldn´t get over the hump. Ex Fordham(NCAA) guard  Brandon Frazier hit a runner while Bartolo scored dead locking the game at 29-29. From then on Wurzburg kept their nose in front and Bonn would tie the game a few times. Richter who wasn´t 100% healthy gave his 180% as always getting a reverse lay in and free throws. After Allen gave Wurzburg the 37-35 advantage, it was Frazier who scored on a jumper tying the game at 37-37. German beast Martin Breunig then finished a crushing dunk only to have to watch Skyler Bowlin do his magic as he hit a timely trey with two seconds remaining handing Wurzburg thee lead again 40-39 at the break. The story of the game continued to be the Telekom Baskets Bonn inability to make three point shots. Wurzburg were the more clever team in shot selection and were reading the other team´s defense better than did Bonn. The Telekom Baskets Bonn were still shooting a pathetic 14,3% from outside while Wurzburg was shooting at a blazing clip of 62%.

                In the third quarter s.Oliver Wurzburg would go on little runs only to see thee Telekom Baskets Bonn match the runs. S.Oliver Wurzburg wasted no time breaking out on a 9-2 run to open up the second half. Allen nailed a trey and later made a steal and two handed stuff. Chapman scored again while Bowlin snuck inside and grabbed an offensive rebound and made the rapid put back for the 49-41 advantage. The Telekom Baskets Bonn continued to chip away and got some baskets from Frazier and Breunig, but just couldn´t buckle down on defense allowing another lay in by Allen and allowing Hassfurter to hit four free throws. for the 55-48 lead. The Telekom Baskets Bonn then raised their defensive intensity a bit making it harder for Wurzburg to attack going on a 9-2 run to tie the game at 57-57. In the run, the Telekom Baskets Bonn were aided by Mckinney-Jones who supplied five points including a trey and buckets by Polas and Joshiko Saibu. Bonn was getting easy baskets and Mckinney-Jones was playing that go to guy kind of role. And the Telekom Baskets Bonn were unable to keep their high intensity  allowing the s.Oliver Baskets to close out the third quarter on a 5-0 run to lead 62-57. They hit two free throws and Hulls dropped a trey after getting a pretty kick out pass from young German Joshua Obiesie. “Our defense was key, because we got stops. We got out running and took good shots”, stressed Noah Allen. “We couldn´t hit from outside. When you can´t do that then it´s tough to win”, added Trey Mckinney-Jones.

                The s.Oliver Baskets took over right from the start of the fourth quarter going on a 8-2 run to lead 70-59 and the Telekom Baskets Bonn were unable to react positively from the onslaught. In the 8-2 run, the s.Oliver Baskets got another key trey from Hulls, a pretty left handed hook shot from ex Marquette(NCAA) standout Lukas Fischer and another bucket from Allen who finished the game with 21 points. “I am still trying to find my niche. We have so many scorers that I don´t always have to score. Important for me is to be unselfish, play good defense and effect the game”, stressed Noah Allen. The fast tempo from Wurzburg continued to give the Telekom Baskets Bonn fits which led to easy baskets. The Telekom Baskets continued to have problems scoring when they wanted to and couldn´t limit the guests. After a Breunig basket, Wurzburg went on their next run of 7-2 to get their biggest lead of the game at 77-63 thanks to five key points from Cameron Wells. After a Mckiney-Jones lay in, it was ultimately good night as Richter scored and Hulls and Allen hit back to back three´s for a hard to swallow 8-0 run giving Wurzburg their biggest lead of the contest at 83-67. Bonn got two more baskets from Bartolo and Breunig, but it was too little too late for Bonn to defend their title. “We continued to bring energy and ball pressure that they couldn´t handle”, stressed Noah Allen. “We had two back to back games which is tough, but so did they. We let the game get away from us in the fourth quarter. I was happy with our defensive intensity in the fourth quarter. We didn´t let it waver, but stuck with it”, warned Trey Mckinney-Jones. S..Oliver Baskets were led by Noah Allen with 21 points. Jordan Hulls added 12 points and Johannes Richter contributed 11 points while Brekkot Chapman 10 points. The Telekom Baskets Bonn were led by Martin Breunig with 17 points. Trey Mckinney-Jones added 13 points and Yorman Polas Bartolo had 12 points.  S.Oliver Wurzburg shot 54% from the field and 37% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 22 turnovers while The Telekom Baskets Bonn shot 42,6% from the field and 12% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 16 turnovers. 

Casey Teson is a 188cm guard from St Charles, Missouri that was going to start his professional basketball career in Germany with SC Rist Wedel in the Pro B, but was released. He began his basketball career at Saint Charles High School. He then played at Eastern Illinois (NCAA) from 2015-2017 and as a freshman played 30 games averaging 7.5ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 31.3%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 77.8%. In his second season at Eastern Illinois (NCAA) he played 29 games: averaging 6.9ppg, 1.6rpg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 96.8%. He then played at Maryville, MO (NCAA2) from 2017-2019 and as a junior played 28 games averaging 11.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 91.7%. In his senior year at Maryville, MO (NCAA2) he played 26 games averaging 19.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 88.0%. He spoke to geermanhoops.com about his basketball career earlier in the summer.

Casey thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

I live in Saint Charles, MO which is about 30 minutes from St. Louis. This summer my day consists of 2-3 workouts a day. Once a week I take a hot yoga class and also try to get out on the golf course as much as I can.

Congrats on signing with German Pro B team SC Rist Wedel. How excited are you to be starting your professional career in Germany and with what expectations are you coming to Germany with?

Playing professional basketball has always been a dream of mine. Looking forward to this new experience and being immersed in a new country.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? Have you had any people play here that you know?

From what I have heard and searched online Germany is known for their pretzels. For the specific town I am staying in, the weather looks cold and windy. I don’t know anyone that has played in Germany so this opportunity should be one to remember.

You had a job interview over the phone. Manager Christoph Roquette was very impressed with you especially your desire to be successful. A lot of other guys have to fly over and try-out. What impressed you most with the organization when on the phone?

Rist Wedel seems like a very structured and organized basketball club. They put their players in positions to allow for success. I guess the most shocking thing was everyone’s English!

Did you make a type of check list when you went about deciding to come to Germany or not? What were the main reasons for signing a rookie contract with SC Rist Wedel?

Rist Wedel was my first offer on the table. After doing research and talking with coaches I heard nothing but great things about this program. It was important to me that the team I chose was going to be welcoming and continue to push me as a player.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 188cm combo guard. What is your natural position? The point or the two?

Growing up I always played the 2-guard. This past year at Maryville University, my coach moved me to point guard. I am comfortable running this position but I enjoying playing the 2-guard.

Your a guy with many offensive skills and if you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I relate my game to Luka Doncic. A rookie for the Dallas, Mavericks. This player has great footwork, but is not always the fastest one on the court. He is very creative in the ways he gets his shots off. I also enjoy watching Luka because of his positive attitude towards the game.

Your scoring and three pointer stand out, but you can do many other things on the court. What are other vital strengths in your game?

From a guard standpoint I believe that I read the floor well and have good decision making skills on the fly. I enjoy being able to pick players up when they are down and direct focus on the next play.

You shot very well from outside in your last two seasons at Maryville, MO (NCAA2). How confident do you feel about your shot continuing to be a big weapon at the professional level. How do you see shaping your shot into a professional weapon?

I have relied on my shoot throughout my whole career so my confidence will always be there with that. I see my shot helping out by spreading the floor and not allowing teams to help off me, so my teammates have a good opportunity to score

You’re a guy that can fill the stat sheet with ease, but what do you feel is a hidden weapon in your game that still seems to be a bit off the radar?

My ability to read the floor and breakdown teams by making the right pass.

You began your college career at Eastern Illinois. As a freshman you averaged 7,5ppg in 28 minutes. What kind of role did you have as a freshman?

My role as a freshman at Eastern Illinois was to help spread the floor and knock down open shots.

Was your 18 point game as a freshman where you hit 6/8 three’s against Indiana State one of your more memorable games in the NCAA?

Hitting 6 of 8 from the three-point line is something that I will remember. My favorite game was against Indiana University because it was my first ever college game and had a fun atmosphere.

In your sophomore season you played 8 minutes less, but still put up ok stats. Why did you decide to transfer to Maryville, MO (NCAA2) after this season?

The reason I transferred back home was because to have the opportunity to play in front on family and friends. Another big influence was the head coach of Maryville, Marc Sticker. I have known him since middle school and he has played a big impact on my life in regard to basketball and growing into the person I am today.

You finished your college career at Maryville, MO (NCAA2) where you averaged double figures in scoring in both seasons and as a senior averaged 19.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 88.0%. How do you feel did your game develop further in your last two years?

I was allowed more freedom on the court from coach Stricker. I also put in extra work over those two summers really focusing in on my mid post game. This allowed me to score from all three levels.

You hit Truman State for 38 points hitting only one three pointer. What memories do you have of this game and was this your most memorable game in school?

Against Truman everything was clicking on all cylinders. Everything I shot felt pure. They allowed me to get to my spots on the court that I was most comfortable with. At the D2 level this was by far my favorite and most memorable game.

How did head coach Marc Stricker groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Coach Stricker has been the back bone of my game. He’s helped me out in so many ways. He’s helped me look at the games in different angles and helped me with my skills as well. I couldn’t thank coach enough for everything he’s done for me.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Marc Colletta?

Zach is probably one of the hardest guys to guard because he is very quick and is longer than anyone I’ve played against. When he gets the ball to the mid post the only way you can get a stop on him is if he misses a shot. He’s going to have a great junior and senior year at Maryville and has a bright future after college basketball.

Who has been the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA that is in the NBA or in Europe?

I didn’t get a chance to play against him but I got the opportunity to play with him when I played for MoKan. His name is Shake Milton. He was a complete player. He had it all, I give him a lot of credit.

Please list your five best teammates of all-time?

Nolan Berry, Jimmy Barton, Marshawn Blackman, Eugene Jones, Chase Morfield.

Please name your personal own NBA Rushmore. Which four heads would you pick past or present for your list?

Steve Nash, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Devin Booker.

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


The greatest of all time is LeBron James. Just look at the stats, it says everything

What was the last movie that you saw?

Spiderman Far From Home.

Thanks Casey for the chat.

Michael Gilmore is a 24 year old 208cm power forward/center from Jacksonville, Florida that is playing his rookie season in Germany with Phoenix Hagen. He began his basketball career with Arlington Country Day School and also played with Each 1 Teach 1 (AAU). He got experience at two NCAA schools playing three years and 88 games with Virginia Commonwealth. He also played a year with FGCU (NCAA) playing 23 games averaging 6.7ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 65.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball. 

Michael thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

Currently in Hagen, Germany

It is a fact that you are the nephew of NBA great center Artis Gilmore. You probably won’t get as many questions about him as in the States, but how frequent have you had to answer question about your famous uncle in your life?

I answer questions about him when asked

You have had quite a whirlwind of a basketball career as you were technically at three schools, declared for the NBA draft in 2018 and then played a fifth year in the NCAA. How do you feel have you grown best as an individual in the last years experiencing so much and not your normal college career?

I think that my last year helped me more than anything.

Congrats on signing with German Pro A team Phoenix Hagen. What were the main reasons for signing your first professional contract with this club?


It seemed like a great opportunity to be able to start my career!

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? Have you had any friends or former teammates or opponents play here?

I don’t know much about it so this is a pretty new experience for me, honestly.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 208cm forward/center that can do a variety of things on the court well. If you had to describe your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I’m not sure really the guys I admire are elite level NBA players and not very comparable but I like taking parts of each of their games.

Talk a little about your strengths at both ends of the court. What kind of Michael Gilmore will fans see on the court this season?

Competitive edge and passion for playing.

You never averaged more than 6,7ppg in the NCAA. How hungry are you to break out in the German Pro A and do you feel like you could be an impact player as a rookie?

I want to be able to show as much as I can as well as I can here!

Head coach Chris Harris likes your speed in combination with your length. Do you feel that you will be able to continue to be a match up problem at the professional level and still be successful?

I think I will be able to use the abilities I have successfully

You’re a versatile player, but what do you feel is a hidden strength in your game that is still somewhat off the radar for people watching you battle on the court?

Being able to play the right way.

On what things have you been working on this summer so when you start your rookie season that you will be best prepared to shine on the court?

Ball handling and post play

You began your NCAA career at Virginia Commonwealth University (NCAA) in 2014. Your minutes rose from 6 as a freshman to 11 as a sophomore. Still your minutes were limited. How tough were these two years and what do you believe was the most positive you got out of the situation?

VCU has always been a place I feel I have been able to succeed in.

You then played a season at FGCU (NCAA) playing 23 games averaging 6.7ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 65.6%. It was your best statistical season in the NCAA. What did you learn about yourself during this season that helped you attain success?

Playing any where you have to be able to know the game and find your spots

I can imagine your favorite opponent of all-time in the NCAA was N Florida which you beat three times with FGCU having superb games of 14/11, 14/12 and 16 points. What made it easier playing against this school than others?

I am from the city this school is located and have a relationship with the coach so I would say comfortability

How important was head coach Joe Dooley in this one season. How did he help you mature better on the court?

Extremely, he gave me opportunities that I needed and I am forever grateful for him and his efforts in my favor

r.

You came back for a fifth year and returned to Virginia Commonwealth University (NCAA) playing 33 games averaging 2.8ppg, 2.4rpg. How tough was it coming back and playing 6 minutes again? Despite that how had your game grown in the two years that you were gone?

The opportunity to return to VCU helped me in a number of ways and it was extremely important to my development.

You played in 4 NCAA tournaments. Which one was your favorite and most fondest?

My freshman year against former travel ball teammate D’Angelo Russell

How did head coach Mike Rhoades groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

He was super important and gave me tons of knowledge and lessons on becoming a professional

Who was the toughest opponent that you played in the NCAA that is in the NBA or in Europe now

Treveon Graham who is with Minnesota Timberwolves

Please list your five best teammates of all-time?

I can’t list only 5

Please name your personal own NBA Rushmore. Which four heads would you pick past or present for your list?

Shaq, Lebron, Kobe, MJ

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

Lebron James.

Thanks Michael for the chat

Manuel Schust is a 40 year author/journalist that was born in Frankfurt, Germany and studied literary sciences at the well known Goethe University in Frankfurt. He was infected for the love of basketball as a child and has been following the game and development of the Fraport Skyliners organization since decades. He has written countless articles for print and online mediums and is the editor of Germanhoops.com since 2009. His newest book is called 111 reasons to love the Fraport Skyliners. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the book and basketball.

Manuel thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Before we talk about your new book, could you talk a little about your journalistic life so people can get a feel exactly where you come from?

From as long as I can remember there have always been two big passions in my life: basketball and writing. After earning my master’s degree in comparative literature I started working for a publishing company in Frankfurt, but I always wanted to concentrate on my writing. In 2017 I decided to quit my job and started to work as an freelance journalist. Ever since I have written articles about a lot of different topics. But at some point I realized that I always wanted to write a book about basketball.

I believe you were already a basketball fan and following basketball before the Fraport Skyliners were established in 1999. You were an Eintracht Frankfurt fan at first or not?

When I started to follow German basketball in the early 90s Eintracht Frankfurt presented the only opportunity to watch higher-level basketball in Frankfurt. I would not say that I was a big Eintracht Frankfurt fan. But the club used to play their home games in the gym of my old school. So I attended their games for many years and liked some of their teams and players. But in general this was not the kind of basketball I was looking for. As a teenager I grew up with the US Dream Team, the Adidas Streetball Challenge and the 90s NBA. Basketball became a lifestyle for us teenagers. But before the Skyliners came to Frankfurt organized basketball was played in school gyms and lacked all the entertainment part of the game.

Since a few years some easyCredit BBL teams like Alba Berlin, FC Bayern Munich, Brose Bamberg and medi Bayreuth have released super club books called “111 reasons to love my team”. A fifth club with the Fraport Skyliners now will release their own book with this title. Please explain how you got involved with this project?

While I was reading Benjamin Moser’s “111 reasons to love Alba Berlin” I started to ask myself why there was not a similar book about the Fraport Skyliners. The club celebrates its 20^th anniversary this summer and really brought basketball as an NBA-like event to Frankfurt. I am not the kind of person who waits for someone else to pick up an idea I like. So I started to think about reasons to love the Fraport Skyliners, wrote them down and had more than 80 reasons after a first brainstorming. Then I got in contact with Benjamin Moser and Skyliners press spokesman Thomas Nawrath, who supported me from day one. Luckily the publisher Schwarzkopf & Schwarzkopf liked my approach and gave me the opportunity to write the book.

You are a guy that follows world basketball very closely and is able to form your own fair and neutral opinions about any basketball topic, but would it be fair to say that you are part a Fraport Skyliners fan?

Since the Skyliners brought the kind of basketball to Frankfurt that I was longing for as a teenager, I certainly do sympathize with the club. But I was never a big fan of one particular club and like to describe myself as a fan of basketball in general. I think as a fan you tend to see things through rose-coloured spectacles if your club is successful. But if things do not work out great fans can be pretty harsh. So I usually try to distance myself from being too close to one club. It helps to put things in perspective and I can enjoy basketball much more if I don’t have to root for one specific team.

You began with the book in 2018 and finished it in May 2019. Talk a bit about the difficult process it was traveling to Frankfurt on many occasions to check the Skyliners archive and just putting together the book?

I vividly remember the beginnings of the Skyliners back in 1999. I think I attended my first Skyliners game in December 1999 and followed the club very closely over the years. But your memory can really play tricks on you. 20 years is a long time and there were several occasions when I started to question my memories. It was great to be able to check the Skyliners archive. The club has gathered articles that go back to 1999. So whenever I was not sure about certain details I could always go back to the archive. Usually I wrote down what I had in mind and then checked the facts in the Skyliners archive.

Did you read any of the other club books for inspiration or tips to help with the writing of the book? I believe Alba Berlin author Benjamin Moser was a guy you spoke To often and was instrumental in you being a part of this as well.

I read all basketball books published by Schwarzkopf & Schwarzkopf and can highly recommend each of them. When you follow basketball closely you tend to think that you know a lot about certain clubs. But these books can give you so much information and background stories that you get to know clubs on a new basis. The books helped me to learn more about Alba Berlin, Bayern Munich, Bamberg and Bayreuth. The author of the Berlin book, Benjamin Moser, was a big help for me in the early stages of the project. I would love to see more books about BBL clubs!

What was the toughest thing about finding the correct 111 reasons to love the Fraport Skyliners? In their 20 year history, there have been many very memorable experiences. Did you have leave some out at the end or did you pretty much get in most of what you wanted?

111 reasons sounds like really a big number. But if you consider the 20 year club history the number becomes so much smaller. After my first brainstorming I had more than 80 reasons, but when my research continued I soon gathered over 150 reasons. But I combined some of the reasons and could pretty much narrow it down to 111. It did not help that the Skyliners signed Andre Mangold late last season. Mangold was the Bachelor on the famous tv show and of course had to be part of my book. So I unexpectedly had to add another chapter, but it all turned out fine! I am very happy about the result!

You spoke with many former players, people in the office etc. If you had to pick one person who´s story stuck out the most who would you pick? In my research of the book, I remember coming across the chapter of Daphne Bouzikou as one of the more interesting ones?

The research and the writing process were really interesting. To re-live through the last 20 years of basketball in Frankfurt put a lot of things in perspective. I was very happy about a conversation I had with Daphne Bouzikou. She was the first ever female assistant coach in the BBL and was instrumental for the club from 1999-2008. She had left the Skyliners on a sour note and never worked as a basketball coach ever since. First I was not sure if she was willing to even talk to me about her time in Frankfurt. But she was very nice and had many nice things to say about the club.

When writing the book and putting together the 111 fascinating stories, what was your main goal in trying to get each story best communicated to the reader?

I soon set a quality standard for myself as I was trying to find something in each of the chapters that even I didn’t know before. I think my book is worth reading for anybody who likes German basketball. The book gives a very good overview about the Skyliners club history. Fans who missed the early years get well informed about the first era and even hardcore fans will find some stories they never heard of.

What are your three most memorable Skyliners memories from the last 20 years in your book?

I think winning the BBL championship in 2004 was the most memorable moment in club history. Back in 2004 Frankfurt had a great team but was so underrated by many fans and experts. Alba Berlin had won 7 titles in a row and looked invincible for many. It was great to see a young Skyliners team overcome injuries and setbacks and win it all in the end.
Winning the Fiba Europe Cup in 2016 was also an outstanding achievement. I loved Jordan Theodore as a leader of a young core of German players that had matured and finally crown themselves with a European title.
I also like to point out a Euroleague game back in 2005. Despite a lot of injuries a very young Skyliners-team was able to defeat Panathinaikos Athen with a last second tip-in by 19-year old Miroslav Todic.

You also follow the Fraport Skyliners very closely. This season they are focusing a lot on their young front court for success. Do you feel that they will have enough weapons to make an impact in the league?

I think this upcoming season could be more of a transitional year. Gordon Herbert is gone and it will be interesting to see what kind of basketball new head coach Sebastian Gleim will try to establish. Leon Kratzer, Niklas Kiel and Richard Freudenberg will get the opportunity to take the next step in their development. Hopefully Kiel stays healthy and Freudenberg can get more consistent. If those three develop into key players the Skyliners should have a solid foundation to become successful again. With the current roster I see them fight for the last playoff spot. But budget-wise teams like Bayern, Berlin, Oldenburg, Bamberg and Ulm are out of reach. Without a new arena it becomes tougher each year to be competitive for Frankfurt. I do like the Fraport Arena, but it just lacks almost everything a new modern arena could offer.

Your favorite player of all-time is Chris Williams. Last year you wrote a fascinating career portrait of him at basketball.de. I know you met him back in the day. Talk a little about what he meant to you as a player and what your fondest memory of him on and off the court was?

I fully agree with Skyliners general manager Gunnar Wöbke: Chris Williams was the best American to ever play basketball in Germany. I will never forget his crossover move that was absolutely unstoppable. He was a very unique player in many ways. Humble on and off the court. And he made everything look so easy. Big Smooth was the perfect nickname for him as he was so elegant on the floor. When Chris had the ball in his hands late in the game I was always confident for Frankfurt to win.

The Fraport Skyliners have had many great point guards over the years. Which three Skyliner point guards had the most impact on the club and their success?

That is a tough question because Frankfurt is known for great point guards. First of all one has to mention Pascal Roller, who played ten years in Frankfurt and was the starting point guard of the championship team back in 2004. Pascal was the face of the Skyliners and super important on and off the court. Even though Kai Nürnberger was important in the early years and Aubrey Reese had a great year in Frankfurt, I pick two other guys here. DaShaun Wood was unstoppable and won the MVP award in 2011. And Jordan Theodore’s name will forever be linked to winning the Fiba Europe Cup in 2016.

Since July you are working for the ProA club wiha Panthers Schwenningen. Tell us about your new job and how became Schwenningen’s new press spokesman!

In 2017 I moved to southern Germany and all my basketball friends felt sorry for me to move to an area where no pro basketball is established. The wiha Panthers Schwenningen were the closest club to my new hometown and were playing in the Regionalliga (4^th tier league) at that time. I visited one of their games in September 2017 and was pleasantly surprised about their passion and vision for pro basketball in Villingen-Schwenningen. Initially I just wanted to write reports about the team in local newspapers. But then the club offered me to write for their homepage and help them with their Social Media channels. This was an offer I could not refuse. Writing about an ambitious basketball club on a daily basis is like a dream coming true. Who knows maybe my next book will be called “111 reasons to love the wiha Panthers Schwenningen”?!?

What was the last movie that you saw?

I’m not really a movie-guy. I like some shows on Netflix. But since my favorites “Better Call Saul” and “Ozark” did not return for a new season this summer I actually did not watch anything else and concentrated mainly on writing.

Thanks Manuel for the chat.

Marquis Cooper is an American basketball player from from Marianna, Arkansas He has a huge chip on his shoulder and plays both sides of the court and is a team player. He recently took part at the Howard Hoops Tour in Germany. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball dream.

Hi Marquis, thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been? 

Hey thanks for having me. I am in Frankfurt, Germany right now getting ready for the Ronald Howards Tournament. My summer has been wonderful. I graduated college last weekend so this summer has been awesome.

There are guys with meager basketball resume’s and then there are guys like you that are battling to build a resume. How hungry are you to finally get a chance to showcase your basketball skills with a professional team?

I am very hungry. Coming from a small city all we ever did was work hard so that stuck with me.

You come from a small town in Arkansas and now are in Germany. Has it been a type of culture shock or did you notice quickly how Americanized Frankfurt is?

It hasn’t been a culture shock because I’ve been to other countries that were Americanized just like Germany. The food is different but that’s about it.

You played high school ball, but because you lived in the country and didn’t live in a bigger city, that kind of held you back. How was your high school basketball experience? How were you able to make the best situation out of it? 

My high school basketball career was pretty good. In high school I played all (5) positions. Sounds a little crazy huh? But I did. I loved being in the country because it taught me to never give up. Working hard in 100 degree weather was the best.

Your chip must be so large on your shoulder. What keeps your basketball dream alive on a daily basis knowing that you have as good as no real experience? 

I’ve been playing basketball since I was small, but even though I didn’t play in college I knew that I could not quit so I had to keep working.

How difficult is it having a day job and working on your basketball craft at night. Talk about the day to day grind that you have in your life? 

It was very hard when I was in School. I had tons of homework, but I tried to get something in everyday which was very difficult.

Let’s talk a bit about your game. Just so one can get a feel as to what type of player you are, if you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would have to say Russel Westbrook. I love the aggression when it comes to basketball. I don’t talk crap on the court like him unless I have to. I am usually very quiet but you will know that I am on the court. 

What are your biggest strengths on the court and what do you like to display most on the court? 

I am a defensive player and a team player. I am not the best shooter but I will work hard to get to that point. I also like to keep my team on track. I am usually playing point guard because of my leadership.

A big plus in your game is that you are a team player. You have a decent shot, but it needs work. Has shooting been something that you have been focusing on most in the basketball lab? 

I’ve been focused on everything, but shooting is something I worked on more than other skills. I am more of a point guard so me facilitating and getting to the basketball or even dishing a pass to a teammate will always get the job done.

You are taking part at the 2019 Howard Hoops tour in Germany. How excited are you to be able to be in Europe? With what kind of expectations are you going to Germany with? 

I am very excited. I was nervous at first, but I’m okay now. I just want to land a good job and help a team win games. 

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? What are you looking forward to most with this experience? 

I really don’t know much about Germany, but I know that Dirk was from there and he played and went to the league. I am very humble and looking to further my basketball career.

How thankful are you of getting this experience from tour CEO Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.). How did the whole contact come about and what do you believed impressed him most from your game to invite you?

I am very thankful. I actually got in touch with him on social media and it went from there.

Ronald Howard has an amazing track record of helping guys like yourself land on a team. How confident are you that through his guidance you would be able to find a team? 

I think I would have great success. I an very humble. I don’t do a lot of talking and bragging I just leave it all on the court.

Ronald Howard is an amazing around the clock basketball junkie. What has impressed you most about his presence and just how much influence does he have in being able to get the best out of a player? 

He is very passionate about helping and coaching which influenced me to do good on and off the court.

Is your basketball dream big enough to earn somewhere between 300-500 euro to start?. That is a tough lifestyle and some guys can’t cope with it while others can. Are you aware how tough it will be once you get a shot? 

Yes it is. I am a hard worker so $300 or $500 Euros for a start is okay. 

Please explain in a few sentences as to why you could help any team despite the kind of resume that you have?

I can help any team because of my passion for the game whether that is starting or coming off of the bench. Coach called me an ‘Energizer Bunny’ so that means I rarely get tired on the court. I will do whatever I have to do.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore. Which 4 heads old or present would you pick? 

Jordan, Westbrook, John Wall, and Patrick Beverly. I would pick these people because of their dog mentatlity. Each unique player has or had heart and that’s what I like.

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

Jordan is the best. Lebron is a cry baby haahaa! Jordan did a lot more than Lebron and Jordan played in a different Era than Lebron and I don’t think Lebron would have been as good.

What was the last movie that you saw? 

Bug’s Life. I really don’t watch T.V other than ESPN. I have never been big on movies because I was always outside enjoying the country life. I was always in the gym playing basketball or either outside playing on my goal.

Thanks Marquis for the chat

Joshua Tatum is an American player that played at Merced college and Post University. He is still looking to begin his professional basketball career. He took another step in that direction as he took part at the annual Howard Hoops Tour in Germany. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball. 

Josh thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been? 

I’m in Vegas. My summer has been wonderful. 

You played at Merced College and Post University. How have you experienced the last year in terms of finding a team. How have you gone about looking for the right fit best?

Well I didn’t really find a team. I played for a semi-pro team but that’s about it. Just been on google trying to find a team.

Did you have a job on the side and how laborious were you continuing to work on your game in the lab? What is the toughest about having this kind of lifestyle?

I do have a job, but I would go to the gym in the morning to lift then work then after I would go to court and work on my game. 

Let’s talk a little about your game. What strengths does your game incorporate and on what things in your game are you continuing to work on so you can get better?

My strengths are down low post game and mid-range game and jump shot. Defense is also my strength. What I’m working on now is my outside game as far as 3pt shot and ball handling. 

You are taking part at the 2019 Howard Hoops tour in Germany. How excited are you to be able to be in Europe? With what kind of expectations are you going to Germany with?

This is the best experience so far. I’ve never had this opportunity before so I’m super stoked and grateful. Just expecting everyone to be better than me so I can work even harder. 

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? What are you looking forward to most with this experience? 

I’ve only heard good things about Germany and how great of an country it is. I also heard that their basketball is a great opportunity to play. I’m definitely looking forward to getting a job here or somewhere.

How thankful are you of getting this experience from tour CEO Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.). How did the whole contact come about and what do you believed impressed him most from your game to invite you? 

I’m beyond grateful and blessed with connecting with 

Ronald Howard. I actually found him on social media and he let me know what I need to get here. 

Ronald Howard has an amazing track record of helping guys like yourself land on a team. How confident are you that through his guidance you would be able to find a team? 

As humble as possible I think with his guidance and my hard work and me being coachable I think I can get a job out here. 

Ronald Howard is an amazing around the clock basketball junkie. What has impressed you most about his presence and just how much influence does he have in being able to get the best out of a player? 

I like the fact that he’s all about his players and he only wants the best for them. I def trust him. 

Is your basketball dream big enough to earn somewhere between 300-500 euro to start?. That is a tough lifestyle and some guys can’t cope with it while others can. Are you aware how tough it will be once you get a shot?

I definitely understand how hard it is to make it. For me all I need is a foot in the door and I think I could make a living.

Please explain in a few sentences as to why you could help any team despite the kind of resume that you have? 

Well one I’m coachable and I work hard and I’m always trying to push to the next level. 

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore. Which 4 heads old or present would you pick?

Lebron, Kobe, Shaq, Tim Duncan

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

I think Lebron is better than Jordan 

What was the last movie that you saw? 

Jumunji

Thanks Josh for the chat.

Just getting a job can sometimes be very tough for anyone and as difficult as what Steph Curry must have been going through mentally being down 3-1 against the Toronto Raptors as the appreciation of attaining that job no matter what the circumstances are can be mixed depending on the character of the person, but what happens when you get that dream job? Having the opportunity to make that hobby become your bread maker? Well most guys are probably very happy and sometimes even exhilarated. A guy like Grant Teichmann wasn´t only overjoyed, but was more than extremely thankful when he had learned that he would not only be getting his dream job, but be getting paid to play the game he loves in a foreign country and on top of that to be able to live in one of Germany´s great historic cities named Heidelberg where many American´s can say they have visited. It´s an added bonus when you also have the German citizenship and can finally get to learn about a culture that you have heard about so much, but never been exposed to because of growing up in the States. When Teichmann learned of being able to play his professional basketball rookie season in Germany, he took to social media and expressed a tribute seldom seen from a basketball player. “I found out yesterday that a real life dream of mine has finally turned into a reality! I’ve dreamed about this moment since I was a little kid and it’s officially here. I’ll be headed off to Germany in August to play basketball professionally for MLP Academics. The amount of support I’ve received over the years and just yesterday alone has been overwhelming. There are so many people I owe and need to thank for being able to reach this dream of mine but I know I can’t even begin to think where to start. Thank you to every single past teammate, coach, manager, trainer, team doctor etc. who has been there along the way. It took an extreme amount of hard work and an incredible up and down journey over the years for all of this to fall in place. I’m grateful for the route I chose to take and to have always trusted myself and those closest to me. Next stop Heidelberg, Germany“, stressed Grant Teichmann. “What stood out right away was his daring and self-confidence shooting the ball especially from way outside. You rarely see a pure shooter like him that also has good court vision. We will focus on his defensive qualities as he still has a lot of potential in that area. He is a real nice and pleasant person that is very excited to come to Heidelberg”, expressed MLP Academics manager Matthias Lautenschlager. Grant Tecihmann has that rare special thankfulness combined with sheer talent that will help him make that next step in Heidelberg.

            Teichmann is a 22 year old 190cm guard that grew up in Brentwood, Tennessee and lives in Nashville now possesses the American/German citizenship. His dad was born and raised in Germany and is a German citizen. Recently in Atlanta Grant applied for his German passport and citizenship and received it. His grandparents still live in Bayreuth. Even if he never lived in Germany, he was able to follow NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki as a kid and remembers his fondest memory of the German wunderkind. “The 2011 NBA Playoff run. He was literally unstoppable. I loved seeing a magical run that seemed like complete destiny. I always remember Dirk from when I was young because he was the only player my dad would talk about until LeBron came along”, expressed Grant Teichmann. He comes from a very athletic and family as his father played football for UT-Chattanooga, as did his brother Logan.  His brother Kyle also played basketball at Freed-Hardeman (NAIA).  Another brother Chase is an assistant men’s basketball coach at Florida College and helped coach Grant as a graduate assistant at FHU. He had basketball early in his blood and was a stand out at Brentwood high school where he averaged 20.4 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. His career high was as a senior where he netted 40 points in the district semifinals.  He finished his career with over 1,100 points.  He garnered All-State, All-Mid State, All-Tournament and District Tournament MVP honors in high school while helping lead the school to three straight state tournament appearances and a spot in the finals in 2015. Despite having such an amazing high school career, he didn´t get that NCAA gig, but had to be content with starting in the NAIA the fourth college division and one where it´s difficult to go on to a professional career. He played two seasons at Freed-Hardeman (NAIA) playing 63 games and in his sophomore season averaged 10.1ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 75.5%. He was the team´s second leading scorer and had 19 starts. His best scoring game there was a 27 point explosion against Lindenwood-Belleville (Ill.). Despite having a solid second year, he decided that it was time for a change and moved to Carson-Newman (NCAA2). “Freed-Hardeman was a great experience. I loved my teammates and my brother Chase was on staff for two years. I chose to leave because after my first year our coach left unexpectedly and my teammates and I decided to stay another year and give it a shot. Unfortunately it wasn’t a good situation to be a part of”, stressed Grant Techhmann.

            Teichmann who lists his special NBA Mount Rushmore with guys like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal… Wilt Chamberlain honorable mention then finished his college run with a stellar career at Carson-Newman (NCAA2) where he showcased his abilities in 60 games. In his junior season he played 31 games averaging 11.1ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.9apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 70.2%. He scored in double figures in 19 games including two 22 point efforts against Wingate and Queens, NC. Other highlights in his junior campaign were getting close to a triple double against Lenoir-Rhyne with 10 points, 8 boards and 8 dimes. He also showed his offensive versatility dishing out at least 5 assists in 11 games and had 9 against Anderson. In his senior season, he made another step averaging 14.5ppg, 4.5rpg, 4.7apg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 73.3%. He scored in double figures in 23 games and had more than 20 points four times. He hit Newberry for 26 points and had stellar games against Tenn Wesleyan netting 24 points. He had a great performance against Lander with 23 points and 10 rebounds and 23 points against Virginia-Wise. He also contributed 22 points against Catawba. He also made a another jump in his playmaking abilities registering 7 assists or more 8 times including 11 against Lees-McRae. He was fortunate that he played for a coach that let him just play his game. “My playmaking ability increased. Coach Benson gave us a lot of freedom on the court and encouraged us to play to our strengths and aggressive”, added Grant Teichmann. One of his 20 plus point explosions wasn´t his fondest game memory, but rather one where he netted less points in a huge 92-91 win. “Those were all great games but I think my most memorable one would be at King my junior year. It was a come from behind win. I had 16 or 18 in the second half and hit a lot of big shots late in the game to give us a close win”, added Grant Teichmann. There were many guys that helped him become the player he is now, but one of his biggest supporters was his head coach Chuck Benson. “On the court, CB gives you a lot of freedom and puts you in position to make plays as well as teaches the game from a universal standpoint. What he preaches works at all levels. Off the court, he would constantly talk to us about the real world once we’re out of college, and how we need to carry ourselves as professionals”, warned Grant Teichmann. He doesn´t only have class and special basketball skills, but also has a comical side. When asked about who won a one on one in practice between him and other top player Malik Abraham, he had a quick witty remark. “We never actually played one on one. But I’d like to think I had the best one on one record on the team”, smiled Grant Teichmann.

            On the court Grant Teichmann has a very versatile game and enjoys to fill up the stat sheet. He compares his game to a mixture of a smaller Joe Ingles and Joe Harris. He enjoys the Ingles playmaking ability who isn’t just a spot and dot guy and understands how to make plays in the pick and roll and is a very underrated defender He also likes to compare himself to a Joe Harris because of their size, the ability to run off screens, and catch and shoot ability. A big strength in his game is his shooting ability and knows exactly what he will have to do as a rookie in Germany making that next step from a good shooter to a great shooter. “My goals to go from good to great would be to keep the same percentages (because of the longer 3-point line) but to increase the amount of makes per game”, warned Grant Teichmann. He is not only a prolific shooter, but also a very good passer as he averaged close to five assists in his last two seasons at Carson-Newman. He credits aggressiveness as something that helped increase his playmaking ability. “I’ve always considered myself too passive growing up. I have always had good vision. With the increase in how aggressive I was, I naturally drew more defenders which led to more assists. Despite being such a versatile player, there are still other facets to his game that he believes are still off the radar. “I think even though my percentages show my ability to score efficiently, I still think my finishing ability is slept on. My off-ball defense, on court communication, basketball savoy and knowing the nuances of the game are also things I think aren’t always noticed”, stressed Grant Teichmann. Despite having so much basketball ability, he knows that he still has many parts on his game to work on and will do so in the next months before he makes the trek to Heidelberg in August. “Shooting, finishing, as well as being better in the pick and roll. I’ll also be working on shots off the dribble and understanding the European game more”, added Grant Teichmann.

            Teichmann who credits Malik Beasley a shooting guard for the Denver Nuggets as his toughest cover as he just seemed unguardable now will begin his professional career with ambitious German Pro A team MLP Academics. The club has had a good development over the last years bringing in talented Americans and helping them make the next step and last season reached the semi-finals of the playoffs and soon will be opening a new state of the art arena. Getting that first professional contract was like a dream come true for the character guy Teichmann as not too many guys have reached a high level the way he has having started in the NAIA. Teichmann remembers his freshman season at Freed-Hardeman where he averaged only 4,9ppg, but already back then he had a healthy self-confidence and if someone had told him in 2015 that he would be a professional in 2019, he wouldn´t have admitted that he couldn´t be a professional one day. I would say it was definitely possible but I can’t lose my confidence like I did this past year (2015-16 season) and I just have to trust my skill and ability”, warned Grant Teichmann. With so many positives to chose from, his new club MLP Academics and the amazing new city Heidelberg and German culture, going here was a no brainer for him. “Their level of interest in me and their past success convinced me. I liked the consistency with their roster as well. There are some good guys to learn from. As a bonus, I started looking into the city and heard nothing but good things about it”, stressed Grant Teichmann. Like at Carson-Newman where he played for knowledgeable Chuck Benson, he will get another gem of a coach with Frenki Ignjatovic and should be able to make positive strides in his development under him. He was smitten with his new coach in their first talks. “He seemed knowledgeable of the game and straight to the point. He seemed very professional, strategic, and versatile. I look forward to getting to know him a lot better”, warned Grant Teichmann. The movie buff who isn´t old school in his favoritism in the never ending debate of who´s the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James taking the latter also has something else that is always beneficial in a player having that extra special hunger to be successful. He has had to prove himself the last four years after a strong high school career playing in the NAIA and NCAA 2 and it won´t be any different now. He has always had that chip on his shoulder and with his motivation to continue to get better and prove people wrong, it is still on his shoulder now. “I definitely have always had a chip on my shoulder but it isn’t difficult coming to terms of always having to prove yourself, because I wouldn’t want it any other way”, warned Grant Teichmann. He doesn´t only have that special rare thankfulness combined with sheer talent, but also that vital chip on his shoulder that will never hinder him from wanting to reach success.

Maulik Roots is a 6’0 shooting guard from Kankakee Illinois. He played junior college ball in Phoenix, Arizona He got some professional experience last April in Mexico last April and also has played in a couple of semi pro men’s leagues in the Phoenix area. He was a member of the 2019 Howard Hoops tour that toured in Germany in August.He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Maulik thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

I am currently in Frankfurt Germany. My summer has been good it’s been a daily grind to get better.

There are guys with meager basketball resume’s and then there are guys like you that are battling to build a resume. How hungry are you to finally get a chance to showcase your basketball skills with a professional team?

Oh man I’m extremely hungry especially with how my basketball life has been. So to get this chance I’m extremely blessed and I plan on making the most out of the opportunity !

How tough was it making the transition from high school ball to junior college ball not having played your junior or senior years of high school?

It was tough man completely different than what I had envisioned. Everyone had speed, everyone could shoot, could play defense, being a guard you got to find a way to set yourself apart. After summer camp ended me an the head coach sat down and decided that using my redshirt year would be my best option. I used that to really motivate me to key in on grinding and working on my game, way more than I ever did.

You went to Mexico last April and got some professional experience. Where did you play and what kind of experience was it being in a Spanish country?

I went down to Queretaro, Mexico. The experience wasn’t exactly how I thought it would be. End of the day I’m still grateful to have gone out there for that month get me a few games in. I look at it as all a part of the process. It could have been better but it also could have been way worse.

You also have played with some semi-pro league teams in the Phoenix, Arizona area. What kind of steps could you make it here? You put up good stats. Do any kind of scouts visit these type of games as you never know there might be that gem that everybody overlooked.

Yea when I got back from Mexico it was a few leagues going on that I hopped in. I joined the leagues to stay active but also as a networking tool, you never know who you can meet while playing or after the game. There weren’t really scouts there but I played against guys that played overseas, so with the help of social media it makes it easy to network with people. But also exposure you play in enough spots or leagues wherever your at if you can play you will start to get noticed it’s almost inevitable.

How tough is it keeping your basketball dream alive while having a day job? How do you pay the bills while grinding in the gym at night?

Man much respect to everyone that’s chasing this hoop dream while still paying bills and handling life. It’s no easy task making sure you work enough to pay your bills but also making sure that you are working on your game so your not outworked by the next man. I was blessed that my jobs back in Phoenix worked with me and my schedule to allow me to make that money to pay my bills, but also allow me to be a gym rat. If you aren’t focused on your goal and truly dedicated to what your chasing it’s very easy to fall off and lose sight. I thank God for keeping me locked in and focused thru all them late nights and early mornings !

Just so one can get a feel as to what type of player you are, if you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?


I think I’m just a combination of role players not really modeled after a specific player

Describe your game a bit. You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet. What are your biggest strengths on the court?

I’m a high energy player with good vision to hit the open man. A huge threat if left open. I love to move without the ball to open myself up, because I don’t need much room to pull the trigger. I can get the team involved as well which is why I tend to fill the stat sheet up.

On what things are you working on most on your game now as you continue to improve your game as you hopefully move up the basketball ladder?

Ball handling ! Definitely working on making my handles tighter. You can never get to good at ball handling. The tighter your handles are the easier it makes your game honestly, especially if you can shoot! So as I continue to climb that ladder ball handling will be something I can always improve on.

You are taking part at the 2019 Howard Hoops tour in Germany. How excited are you to be able to be in Europe? With what kind of expectations are you going to Germany with?

Man I don’t think I slept much the last week I was in the states that’s how excited I was to be coming out here. Great experience spending this time out here the culture the food the time. The group I’m out here with are all cool people. We are building a nice bond lots of laughs and we just getting started. My expectations are very high for myself while I’m out here. I packed to stay for a while!

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? What are you looking forward to most with this experience?

I don’t know much about the country I do know that the love for basketball here is growing. You can never go wrong with cultural experience that’s the thing that I love most with playing overseas basketball. Experiencing the culture !

How thankful are you of getting this experience from tour CEO Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.). How did the whole contact come about and what do you believed impressed him most from your game to invite you?

Oh man I’m extremely blessed and grateful to have come into contact with Ron. He’s definitely someone that a guy like me or anyone really for that matter should have in their corner. A guy that played in Germany last season was playing in one of those leagues back in Phoenix. I reached out to him on social Media after playing against him and asked if he knew any opportunities happening out in Germany, since he just played there . He directed me towards Ron. I messaged him we talked a bit he got some background info on me and invited me to the tour. Honestly I think he could hear the drive I had for the game.

Ronald Howard has an amazing track record of helping guys like yourself land on a team. How confident are you that through his guidance you would be able to find a team?

Yea after googling him and learning more of his background he’s helped a lot of guys land jobs. I extremely confident that with my mindset and having Ron I’m my corner finding a team home out here can likely be an outcome

Ronald Howard is an amazing around the clock basketball junkie. What has impressed you most about his presence and just how much influence does he have in being able to get the best out of a player?

He’s real ! End of the day he’s cutthroat and real which that in itself is influential an makes a player want to be at their best knowing you got a guy like that coming behind you.

Is your basketball dream big enough to earn somewhere between 300-500 euro to start?. That is a tough lifestyle and some guys can’t cope with it while others can. Are you aware how tough it will be once you get a shot?

Honestly starting out I’m grateful to just land a job the money amount will work its way in but if I can just get a job doing what I love I’ll be satisfied. The basketball life is a tough life especially the overseas basketball life. Everyday you got to show up at your best because every day it’s someone that wants your spot . So when you get that shot you got to give it your all ride it till the wheels fall off

Please explain in a few sentences as to why you could help any team despite the kind of resume that you have?

I feel I can help any team because I can move the ball. I can run the floor play defense. I can shoot. I know how to get open. Lastly I have no quits which is a deadly attribute to have.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore. Which 4 heads old or present would you pick?

Michael Jordan Kobe Bryant Lebron James magic Johnson

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

I got to go with the goat also being from the Chicago area he was highly talked about growing up I got to go with MJ

What was the last movie that you saw?


Hobbs and Shaw

Thanks Maulik fort he chat.

Cameron Gause an American basketball player that took part recently at the Howard Hoops tour in Germany. He is a point guard that grew up Tucson, Arizona. He has college experience with New Mexcio State and Northern Colorado and professional experience in the ABA. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball. 

Cameron thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been? 

Thank you for taking the time to interview me, I am in LA right now. My summer has been good, I just moved to LA June 1st and have been training out here and networking with the basketball world that is out here during the summer. 

Every player has their story, but you have that extremely unlucky one. You bounced around from two schools with New Mexico State and Northern Colorado University and never played a game, but you graduated college in 2018. Despite the basketball turmoil was graduating with a degree lesson the basketball pain at least somewhat? 

Somewhat, but basketball has always been the motivating factor so it’s always in my mind. With my degree being in Journalism, I always wanted to play professionally and fall back on my degree and become a sports analyst/ anchor so that was the reason I kind of stuck with getting a degree. Plus I always knew the only way I could stay eligible would be taking classes so getting the degree was just something that came along with that.

Has that college degree at least helped you off the court? Besides being in the lab and working on your game how have you been living life away from the court? 

Not yet because I haven’t applied it yet. Knowing that once I really step into the journalism working field, I won’t really be able to chase both dreams, has kept me more chasing my true love. I’ve spent this year out of college living in Tucson, AZ working at the Tucson Jewish Community center part time. 

How have you experienced the last year in terms of finding a team. How have you gone about looking for the right fit best? How tough has this whole process been mentally? 

The experience has been tough because of not having a agent, which is really what I expected because I knew my situation isn’t really ideal for a team or a agent who hasn’t seen me play, and because of my playing background stats wise. I tried out for two G- League teams the NAZ Suns and Fort Wayne Mad Ants, as well as participating in a Agencies overseas camp last summer in Las Vegas. 

You have played semi-professionally in the ABA, but how much of a void do you believe has the non college experience been for professional teams? 

I really didn’t want to play ABA for the risk of getting hurt but was convinced which turned out to be a good idea. But without an agent lobbying for me with the Professional teams, I haven’t had any contact with them so I wouldn’t say it’s a void. But if my college career would have gone as planned, or even if I had touched the floor just a bit. I know I wouldn’t be in this position.

You practiced with New Mexico State in the 2016-2017. Despite not playing games what benefits did you get form this experience having the day to day opportunity to be in a competitive basketball environment? 

All the guys on the team then except two or three I had been playing with from my previous time at New Mexico State so the main thing that was different was just seeing my improvement over time from my own work. Which really just boosted my confidence and let me know that I belong on the court with those guys. It also kept the dream alive for me, I was able to visualize the goal more clearer. 

When head coach Paul Weir left a new coach came in and brought in new players and you were left in the cold. What were you able to soak up best in that year from head coach Paul Weir that you believe helped your game most? 

I love coach P Weir, although it didn’t work out all the way how I wanted it to. He really gave me a great opportunity that year to earn a spot, which kept the dream alive. I enjoyed every single day, which really made that the best year in college for me! I remember he sent me this quote ‘ To pursue greatness, is to pursue maybe’ – John Bare. That really stuck with me and fueled my fire. 

Let’s talk about your game. If you had to describe it to an NBA player who would best fit the description? 

I would say Quinn Cook, or Tyler Ulis with some flashes of other players. 

Talk a bit about the strengths of your game and on what areas are you continuing to work on most in the lab to get better? 

Strengths are quickness, ball handling, effort, passing, and I’ll say shooting because I’ve spent a lot of time this past year shooting and working on my shot. 

You are taking part at the 2019 Howard Hoops tour in Germany. How excited are you to be able to be in Europe? With what kind of expectations are you going to Germany with? 

I’m very excited because I didn’t think I would be able to have this opportunity, this will be my first time in Europe so I’m hoping to take advantage of this opportunity the best I can. I’m coming in expecting to prove that I can play a high level of basketball. 

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? What are you looking forward to most?

I don’t know anything to be honest. I’m looking forward to testing the work I’ve put in and my confidence level. As well as seeing a different part of the world and experiencing something new. 

How thankful are you of getting this experience from tour CEO Ronald Howard (181-PG-84, college: Mayville St.). How did the whole contact come about and what do you believed impressed him most from your game to invite you? 

I’m very thankful because Ron doesn’t need me, I need him! I got his information through a friend/ mentor on Instagram and it went from there. 

Ronald Howard has an amazing track record of helping guys like yourself land on his touring city. How confident are you that through his guidance you would be able to find a team? 

I’m confident because the person that plugged me with him Carlon Brown, who has played professionally himself and has a business (Point Advising) teaching players the things they need to know to become professional gave me a good recommendation of him. Although nothing is a guaranteed.

Ronald Howard is an amazing around the clock basketball junkie. What has impressed you most about his presence and just and being able to get the best out of a player?

I haven’t experienced this personally yet with him but I am looking forward to doing so on this trip. 

Is your basketball dream big enough to earn somewhere between 300-500 euro to start?. That is a tough lifestyle and some guys can’t cope with it while others can. Are you aware how tough it will be once you get a shot?

My Dream is big enough to earn less to be honest! I just want to start somewhere, because I know once I can get a foot in the door and put some numbers up, I’ll be able to get where I want to be.

Please explain in a few sentences as to why you could help any team despite the kind of resume that you have? 

Although not touching the floor, I come from a winning program and a winning culture. 4/5 of my years in college we have won our conference and I’ve seen what it takes first hand to win championships. And every team wants to win! 

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore. Which 4 heads old or present would you pick? 

Kareem, MJ, Bron, Steph Curry. Even though I think Kobe is better than Lebron. 

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

I got go with MJ, maybe Lebron later.

What was the last movie that you saw? 

Suicide Squad.

Thanks Cameron for the chat.

John Murry is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Indianapolis, Indiana with minimal professional season. Technically he is in his third professional season, but has only three professional games under his belt in the Canadian NBL league with the Kitchener-Waterloo Titans. This summer he signed his first professional contract with BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga). He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about his basketball career.

John thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

No problem, thank you for choosing me for this interview. I am currently in Indianapolis, In training and working out every day for the upcoming season in Germany. This summer has been so productive and very well-orchestrated thanks to my trainers and other vets in my corner.

Congrats on signing with BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga). You signed very early at the end of April. How good did it feel signing your first overseas contract?
Man, the feeling that I got in my body was incomparable and almost impossible to put into words. I received a call at my place of employment at the time and seconds later the contract was in my email. There wasn’t a better feeling that I have had in my life more recently then to look in my email and see that all I had to do was sign my name and I was onto a better life. I wanted to shout, scream, jump, dance, call somebody. It was so many things going through my head at the time I couldn’t even think straight I was just so happy that the last few years of struggle and pain I had been through had finally paid off. 

How tough were the last two years for you? Technically you’re a third-year vet, but really you will be playing your first full season in Germany. You played three professional games in the last two years in Canada. How mind boggling is to you that a guy of your talent averaging 16,7 ppg in the NCAA not have a good steady professional basketball job?
These last two years where some of the hardest times I have ever had in my life. It was a point where everything in my life was messed up, I was so hurt mentally and emotionally my mind was on a rollercoaster every day. Dealing with the absence of basketball, personal life issues, and everyday priorities it was enough to try and break me, but one thing I NEVER stopped doing was working towards my goal. I was down bad to my last mentally and financially and invested everything I had left into myself and my workout plan. I refused to give up no matter what I went through. Coming from averaging almost 20ppg in college to sitting in games where I know I was better than the guys that played instead of me hurt me to my soul, then not being able to play at all professionally for some time killed me even more. Nevertheless I used that and everything ANYBODY had ever done wrong to me as fuel to my fire. I would literally be in workouts like, okay he/she lied to me lets kick it up two notches, I got cut let’s kick it up two notches, you think I’m not good enough lets kick it up two notches, I did everything in my power to grind my way out of the crap that I was in, the one thing that kept me going was my mom and her routine and every day when I was younger. I never seen her quit or give up. She was in a race that challenged her at her age not to long ago and something happened to her health and she couldn’t finish I went to check on her and the first things that came out of her mouth where ‘I’m going back next session to finish my race’ its that competitive, never quit no matter attitude that she passed on to me that kept me pushing past all negativity throughout those rough two years. 

You have a job, but in the fourth league in Germany. How big is the chip on your shoulder and what is it like starting over again and again like you did in the JUCO and doing now again at a lower level?

The chip is enormous but nevertheless something that I am used to at this point. I love it because I love to prove people wrong and I also am good at making something out of nothing like you seen coming from JUCO that’s something that I never see especially in the area where I am from. I do believe that this will be a great opportunity that I will take full advantage of and supersede all expectations of me and more. The fact that I’ve been waiting on this for so long will keep the fuel fired up in me and never let me take this chance for granted as well as soak up every piece of knowledge I can. Me and my guys guys back home call it ‘seize the moment’ I’ll show how good I am and where I deserve to be just like I did in the beginning of my career. 

How thankful are you for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga) head coach Jason Price who knew about you? Was he a big reason why you decided to sign with them?
Words can’t describe how thankful I am for my guy Jason, we saw each other in Vegas and had a real connection after he saw me play and things took off from there. He is a real down to earth guy and definitely showed what a man of his word is all about. I feel like we are going to do really big things this upcoming season. 

How excited are you to join a league the Regionalliga that is dominated by guard scoring? How confident are you that you won’t only be an impact player, but a top player in the league?
Ecstatic is an understatement; I mark the days down on my calendar and watch the time like its just seconds away lol I can’t wait to board the plane and land there with a mind ready to enjoy the culture. I’m so confident in my ability and the work that I have put in to not only be a top player but THEE top player in the league. I love the game so much and am a student of the game to the point I never think I’m too good. I can always get better which keeps me going higher and higher to be the best player I can be and as I always tell myself one of THE BEST PLAYERS IN THE WORLD. 

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? Have you had any friends or ex teammates play in Germany before?
I do know a small amount about the culture but looking forward to learning so much more. I want to be bilingual and experienced with the different types of food they have to offer. I also heard good things about the October fest and the attraction it brings to people not only from Germany but all over the word. I also had a few friends of the family do time in the military over there and heard nothing but great things from them about the culture. 

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard that can really fill up the stat sheet. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
While working out and playing I’ve heard players such as Paul George, Dam Lillard, I’ve also watched myself and the moves I make some of them look close to Kyrie going downhill, my jump shot has its own type of style to where I feel I can revolutionize it. I personally think I’m a close comparison to Dam Lillard style of play and moves more like Paul George.

You really filled up the stat sheet in your two years at Owens CC (JUCO). Do you feel confident that you can do that again in your rookie season in a league that should be fitting for you to do that?
Yes sir, without a doubt I do believe that I am ready and capable to do ascendingly what I did in JUCO, my division 1 career and every day that I touch a basketball. My killer mentality is what gives me the edge and I look to take full advantage. I have a mindset that is based on being unstoppable. 

You can score the ball, rebound and can find your teammates well while also displaying a solid outside shot. What other strengths do you have that will be shown when you step on the court in Germany?
I feel like my athleticism will surprise a lot of people when they see me play. The fact that I can react to certain things so fast, get off the ground so quickly and have sneaky bounce off one foot or two feet going downhill may turn a lot of heads in an amazing way. 

You’re a guy that can really fill the stat sheet, but what do you feel is a hidden strength in your game that doesn’t always get noticed right away on the court?
Probably my ability to close out games and hit big shots, I love having the ball in my hands with seconds left to go in the game, down by whatever amount of points and sending guys home with a L. I also have a motor that I play with that doesn’t stop, I can keep going and going which would surprise a lot of people at the pace I can keep that up. 

On what area’s of your game will you be working on this summer most so you will be best prepared to make an impact as a rookie in Germany?
I really worked on passes and making decisions in tight spaces, I also worked on shooting the deep three consistently while being tired, so I have legs to still make shots late in games. I’ve been in the weight room diligently working on my weaknesses and taking care of my body as well. 

In the last two seasons you were with Saint John Riptide (Canada-NBL Canada) in pre season and played three games with the Kitchener-Waterloo Titans (Canada-NBL Canada). What is your summary of this time? Why didn’t your professional career take off in Canada?
Me looking back on those seasons, coaches really didn’t give me a clue as to what was going on, I feel like some wanted veteran experience and others just didn’t have an idea, I showed out as I do at every level I played at and just got better and took those as learning lessons. I became the best version and continued to get better every day. One thing I never did was let those experiences break me as a person. 

In the summer of 2018 you played at the Scorers 1st Showcase – Pro Basketball Exposure in Las Vegas, NV and also with Team Minnesota (Eurobasket Summer League in Las Vegas) playing 4 games avergaing 25.0ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.0apg. How important was this experience getting your name out in the German market? With Gerrit from Scorer’s First you had a very good contact for the German market?
It played a huge role in my career, me going out there experiencing real pro’s, being around professional coaches, and GM’s and just learning how the game goes. It was very important for me to go out there and put up those numbers so people could see who John Murry really is and what I’m about. 

This year you also had experience with the Fort Wayne Flite (CBA). What was the biggest benefit playing for this team in this league?
The biggest benefit for me was learning a different pace and tempo learning how to slow down and process the game at different speeds while scoring the ball efficiently and looking for different areas to accelerate my game. I played behind a coach that believed in me and a mentor on the side that kept me on my toes at all times. It opened my eyes up to what I can do at a high level going into this season. 

You began your basketball career at North Central High School. Your school had some well known basketball alumni like Eric Gordon, Jason Gardner and David Logan. The latter two had great careers in Europe. Are they like role models that will help you continue to work hard so you can make your own name overseas?
Yes, those guys definitely are like big brothers who helped pave the way for not only myself but many others who came up along with me. I Talked to David Lo right after I signed, and he also played in Germany and he congratulated me and gave me some strong words of wisdom and how to adapt to the European life. Also, a big brother in my corner who helped me tremendously was Greg Foster who was another European pro who won championships and made a name for himself. I played with Eric Gordon and his AAU team when I was in high school and that brought us closer together as well. All influences from these people helped me mentally in getting where I am because this is not an easy game to play and without head strength it will be hard for any person to last years in this profession. 

You played two seasons at Owens CC (JUCO) and put up great stats while reaching two district finals. What do you feel kept the team from not getting the titles?
Honestly nothing that we could control kept us from getting there. An interesting story is both years we lost to a buzzer beater in the final seconds. When you talk about pain, nothing in life hurts more than getting your dreams of championship crushed in the final seconds and you have nothing you can do about it, two back to back years. Both years my team was strong, smart, tough and came to compete every night, we lost a max of 6 or 7 games in 2 years. One of the best teams to go down in the history books, but those loses taught me a lot, I never look at things as losing I either win or I learn and that’s what got me past those memories to a higher level of competition. 

How do you feel did your game grow in the JUCO that allowed you to make a smooth transition into the NCAA?
My game definitely grew a lot and it made my transition to the NCAA very smooth so smooth I was ready for action the first day I stepped on campus. Our very first D-1 open gym I didn’t lose a game, I scored or assisted on almost every point and was playing a such a high level I had never played before. I got to my spots and got any shot or play that I wanted I was unstoppable, it really showed how much hard work I had put in over the summer. 

You then finished college ball at Austin Peay State (NCAA) playing 56 NCAA games from 2015-2017 You made a considerable jump in your stats averaging 5,7ppg as a junior to averaging 16,7ppg as a senior. What do you feel were the main reasons for being able to elevate your game so much?

The main reason was opportunity, in conference play I averaged 20ppg and was second in player of the year voting and it all came from confidence and being comfortable on the floor. It got to a point where it felt like everything I threw in the air was going to fall in the net, no rim!! There is nothing like being completely free on the court and that’s what happened to me. I was able to just play my game without having any restrictions and have fun, with those things in play the sky is the limit of how good I can really be. 

You won the OVC title in 2016 beating Belmont and Tennessee-Martin. Was this your fondest weekend of basketball at Austin Peay State?
Yes, the best weekend of my life in college. I hit a game winner against Tennessee State to play Belmont in the next round and that feeling was unbelievable (that video is on youtube under my highlights). A full weekend of games, no classes, on national TV with the entire fan section behind because we were the underdogs, we made history with that championship and it felt so good. I still talk about winning that ring till this day. There is almost nothing in this world that compares to being a champion coming from the bottom and everybody is voted against you. I love it and enjoyed every second of that weekend. 

You made the big dance in 2016 losing to powerhouse Kansas 105-79 and you steered 13 points in 18 minutes. What memories do you have of that game playing against future NBA players like Frank Mason, Wayne Seldon and Cheick Diallo. You held your own against players like these. Was there a big difference in skill level or knowing that there wasn’t continues to give you hope of going your way up the basketball ladder?
Those memories last a lifetime, from walking into the arena and people asking for autographs to the final buzzer sound. I have memories of me going against Wayne Seldon and me thinking in my head he can’t guard me. No matter who is in front of me I always think they have no chance of stopping me. I remember going against Cheick Diallo who was a rim protector and finishing over the top of him going towards the rim, that was a legendary moment for me because he was projected an early pick at that time and was one of the best shot blockers in that conference, for me to finish through him was a moment I will never forget. I believe I made a free throw in that game and my confidence was through the roof off of just one free throw. I remember guarding Wayne Seldom and frank mason and it put into my head I can play in the NBA if this is what the future players in the NBA look like, and I still believe I’ll get to the NBA. In fact, in those games I was actually more skilled then some of them but some of them had a weight advantage and mindset of pro that our team hadn’t tapped into collectively just yet. Playing those guys actually sparked the fire inside my head of ‘John you can get to the NBA’ AND since then that has been the end goal and I have put in overtime to get to that goal. After watching that game, I felt like I looked good and could easily make an NBA roster with a few polishes on my game and a strong agency behind my name coming from a mid-major d1 program. 

You had some great games in the NCAA, but was your 33-point explosion in your last game in the win against SE Missouri State your best? 

That was definitely one of my best games, but I think the best one may have been a couple games before that when I had 35 against eastern Illinois at home. I was really in a zone the entire game. I loved both of those game because we were down for most of the game and came back to win both of them. 

Who won a one on one in practice you or Josh Robinson?
That was definitely a great battle, but I came out on top of that war. 

Who was the toughest opponent that you played in the NCAA that is in the NBA or in Europe now
The crazy thing is, it was some people right here in Indiana, surviving and being one the best in INDY is very tough and for me to be one of the best I had to out work and out play the best, so it would be the people that I play against every day in the summer while I’m home that give me the biggest challenge 

Please list your five best teammates of all-time?
Gary Harris 
David Logan 
Myles Turner 
Kenny Jones 
Greg Foster 

Please name your personal own NBA Rushmore. Which four heads would you pick past or present for your list?
Kobe Bryant 
Shaq 
Michael Jordan 
Tracy McGrady 

What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James?
Honestly in my opinion neither of them was the greatest I think Kobe Bryant was the greatest and the scariest killer mentality I’ve ever seen. When I’m locked in zone I like to compare my mentality to the will of Kobe and what he used to do to people. He showed no mercy what so ever 

What was the last movie that you saw?
The new Lion King and I loved it lol 

Thanks John for the chat.