Elias Desport is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Stockholm, Sweden that will be playing his first season in Germany with the EN Baskets Schwelm (Germany-ProB). Last season he played with AIK Basket Solna (Basketettan) playing 3 games averaging 1.0ppg, 2.3rpg, in Jan.’17 moved to A. Desportiva Sanjoanense (Portugal-Proliga) playing 13 games averaging  13.2ppg, Reb-1(10.9rpg), 1.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 11.1%, FT: 43.8%. He began his career with KFUM Blackebergs IK (Basketettan) and also played with Taby Basket (Basketettan). He then lived 4 years in the states playing with St.Peter’s (NCAA) playing 119 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about basketball.

 

 

 

 

Elias thanks for talking to germanhoops.com.  Where are you at the moment an dhow have you been enjoying your summer?
Right now, I’m in Stockholm, Sweden. I’ve been working out a lot, two workouts a day but I’ve also had time to see my family, friends and enjoy the weather.

 

Congrats on signing with German pro B team EN Baskets Schwelm. How excited are you to be playing your first season in Germany?

 

Thank you! I’m very excited, hopefully the fanbase of Schwelm is excited as well.

 

What do you know in general about about the country Germany and it´s basketball? As a guy from Sweden, how have you followed the development of German basketball over the years?

 

I know that Germany is a basketball country and the level of basketball is very high. I’ve played against German youth level teams when I represented Sweden in the U18 and the talent level was very high. However, I can’t say that I’ve followed the development.

 

After playing in Portugal and England the last two seasons, you now will make your debut in Germany. How was the transfer market for you in general this summer? You signed early. You must have been very convinced about signing early with the EN Baskets Schwelm?

 

Well, I had a tough year last year in England. I was dealing with injuries and I didn’t get the minutes that I wanted and that I thought I deserved. Going into the summer, you have no clue what can happen and I knew that it might take a while before I received interest but luckily, Schwelm showed interest and the rest is history.

 

What sold you coming to the EN Baskets Schwelm? Did you have some talks with head coach Falk Moeller that helped make your decision easier?

 

I’ve talked with the head coach and the management over the phone and they all seemed nice and genuine. Also, after talking with my agent, I knew it could be a good situation for me to play for Schwelm.

 

Let´s talk about your game. You’re an athletic 204cm power forward that can score, rebound and play good defense. If you had to compare your style on the court to an NBA player which player would best describe how you play?

 

That’s a tough question. I believe I can impact the game in many ways on both ends of the floor. I’m a very underrated passer for my size as well but to be honest I don’t know who I would compare myself to. I just try to do the things necessary in order to win.

 

You had a monster season in Portugal in the second division as a rookie after often not being able to play a big role in the NCAA or for other teams as a scorer and rebounder as you got little minutes. Are your expectations to have a season like in Portugal again since you will get ample minutes in the German Pro B?

 

It’s hard to say because every team and situation is different. Portugal was very different from England and I’m sure Germany is going to be different as well. I expect to make the most out of my opportunity, win and take the next step in my career.

 

You didn´t get many minutes in England last season, but played at a higher level than in Portugal. How confident are you that you will be an impact player this season for the EN Baskets Schwelm?

 

I’m confident but at the same time I’m not expecting anything for free. I know I have to earn minutes just like any other member on the team.  If I work hard, everything else will take care of itself.

You’re a guy that can fill up the stat sheet at ease, but what do you feel is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?

My passing. Definitely my passing. I like to get my teammates involved and I have good vision. Growing up, I used to play point guard because I wasn’t very tall, I think that’s where I learned to pass better and to see the floor. Also, my defense. I’m a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions.

 

Last season you played with the Surrey Scorchers (United Kingdom-BBL) playing 26 games averaging  4.5ppg, 4.3rpg. How do you feel did your game develop last season that will help you be that impact player in the Pro B?

 

I believe my game took a slight hit last year because of the reduced role I had. I learned how to stay professional throughout last years adversity, keeping my head down and just working. Staying in the gym and doing the things necessary to improve and get better.

 

How vital was it for you battling experienced American Gerald Robinson on a daily basis last season? How do you feel did you profit most form his game on the court?

 

Gerald is a physical guy so it was fun going up against him in practice every day. He knows how to score the ball, both in the paint and on the perimeter so it was always challenging to guard him but fun at the same time.

 

As a rookie you played for AIK Basket Solna (Basketettan) playing 3 games averaging 1.0ppg, 2.3rpg, in Jan.’17 moved to A Desportiva Sanjoanense (Portugal-Proliga) playing 13 games averaging 13.2ppg, Reb-1(10.9rpg), 1.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 56.8%. How tough was your rookie season back in Europe after coming from the NCAA those first few months back home? What kept you going in that time?
For the record, I never had a deal with AIK. I was working out with them throughout the fall and winter after college just to stay in shape and then I played 1-2 games with them but I was never fully on board. But it was definitely tough when I didn’t have a job. I honestly thought that I wasn’t going to play anymore and I was going through a phase of depression. Then, I received the job in Portugal and I was back on track. However, playing there was also challenging because I had no social life at all so I felt really lonely at times.

 

With A Desportiva Sanjoanense (Portugal-Proliga) you made your real professional breakthrough. What did you learn about your game that season that you hadn´t known before that?

 

I learned how to be more assertive and aggressive every game. I had a bigger responsibility to perform in my rookie season that I’ve probably ever had.

 

What was it like being the only import player on a team that had only home grown players? It seemed not to be any kind of adjustment for you. Do you feel like your leadership skills matured more this season?

It was extremely tough because there was a constant language barrier with my teammates and coach. Most of my teammates were more interested in soccer than basketball. Like I mentioned earlier, I didn’t have much of a social life but some of the guys tried their best in order to made sure I felt like I was a part of the group. We went out to eat, went to bars, the beach, etc. It’s kind of hard to lead a team when you don’t even speak the same language.

 

You played at St.Peter’s (NCAA) from 2012-2016 and played a total of 119 games, but never averaged more than 3,7ppg in a season. Despite playing little, you had an enriching experience in the class room. How important was it for your development as a player and as a person to have made this decision to play four years in the NCAA?

 

You learn a lot about yourself in college and I believe that’s when you really mature and grow up. Obviously, I didn’t have much success on the basketball court and in hindsight, there are definitely some things I would’ve done differently. But I truly believe that everything happens for a reason. I learned a lot of new things about the game in college. The game is played so differently in the US compared to Europe. I feel like I’m comfortable in either system.

 

Do you ever think back where you might be as a player and person today had you remained in Euriope and never gone to St Peters?

Of course, I always reflect on things in life where I could’ve gone a different way and what that might’ve lead to. Sometimes I wonder what would’ve happened if I moved to the U.S. to attend high school and played in all these AAU tournaments. But I knew that I wanted to attend college, that’s something that I’ve always wanted to do and since I have family there, it was the right thing to do.

Some of your best personal games in the NCAA were against competitive schools Seton Hall and Tennessee Tech. What memories do you have battling against top players and really holding your own?

 

It was fun battling against some of the best. I remember my freshman year when we played Rutgers on their season opener. This was before the Mike Rice scandal and Rutgers was still in the Big East. The atmosphere in that gym was like something that I’ve never experienced before. I ended up knocking down two free throws at the end of the game to get the win. That’s something that I’ll never forget.

 

How did head coach John Dunne help groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

 

Dunne taught me the importance of attention to the minor details, on and off the court, that you might not think about as a player but that are extremely important. All these minor details correlate to winning. He also taught me how to be more physical as a player.

 

Who won a one on one in practice you or Quadir Welton?

 

Ha ha. Q is my guy and he was a tough cover because of his long arms and great touch around the rim. We would go at it a lot in practice and pick up and it would be back and forth. He’s a better inside scorer than me but I’m better on the outside.

 

You were teammates in the past with Charles Barton Jr in Swedish national teams. How have you seen his development over the years and can he play in a top league in Europe soon?

Me and Charles are good friends and we always see each other during the summer to workout. I’ve known him for a long time and he has really put in work and the results speak for themselves.

 

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

Probably Isaiah Whitehead. He was a tough guard with great strength and size. I’ve also played some other guys that didn’t make it to the NBA but that were really good. David Laury, A.J English, Justin Robinson, Momo Jones, Angel Delgado, etc. I’ve also played against Rudy Gobert, Davis Bertrans, Dario Saric in European competitions.

 

If you had to construct your very own NBA Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick old or new?
Jordan, Kareem, Russell, Magic.

 

What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate about who is better Lebron or Jordan? As a player and stats Lebron owned him, but Jordan has 6 rings?

I try not to debate this topic because it’s impossible to reach a consensus. There are so many things to take into account, eras, NBA rules, opposing teams, play styles, skill set. Jordan and LeBron are two completely different players. I think the more interesting debate is Kobe and Jordan.

 

Tracy Mcgrady said that the Boston Celtics will be the Golden State Warriors of the future. Do you see that happening?

 

Two completely different teams, so I’ll say no.

Deandre Ayton was the #1 NBA draft pick in 2018. Do you feel that from sheer talent and experience that Luca Doncic should have been the real #1 draft pick?

 

You can’t teach 7’0 with that skill set so that was a no brainer in my opinion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How did you follow the 2018 NBA Draft? How cool is it having two Germans being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers?

 

 

 

 

I kept up a little bit. I was more interested in who the Knicks drafted. They are my favorite team. I like Kevin Knox. I didn’t even know the Lakers drafted wto Germans but that’s cool.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lebron James makes amazing passes in every game, but really showcased it in a game this season against the Los Angeles Lakers. He already is like a point guard, but if he played just point guard and concentrated only on playmaking how many assists do you feel would he average per game?

 

 

 

He could easily average over 10 assist per game in my opinion. He’s probably the greatest passing wing player this game has ever seen.

 

 

 

 

 

What was the last movie that you saw? Let me guess Black Panther?
A Cabin in the Woods. I watched it on NetFlix and it was terrible.

 

Thanks Elias for the chat.

 

 

Reed Timmer is a 23 year old 185cm guard from Wisconsin that is starting his professional basketball career in Germany with Pro A team Tigers Tuebingen. He had a stellar four year career at Drake where he left the school as it´s all-time leading scorer passing an ex Tuebingen player Josh Young. IN his senior year at Drake, he played 32 games averaging19.3ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 87.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about basketball.

 

 

 

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

 

 At the moment I am training at Drake University with their team. I have been training with them along with trainers I have back in Wisconsin so it has been a great summer so far. I have been able to see a lot of friends and family recently that I haven’t seen in a while which made me happy.

 

Congrats on signing with the Tigers Tuebingen. How soon did you know into your four year career at Drake that you not only wanted to be a professional one day, but had the abilities to become a professional? Possibly hitting Bowling Green for back to back 16 point games in your first two freshman games?

 

 I knew that I wanted to be a pro pretty early on in my college career when I figured out I could have a lot of success in the NCAA. I knew that if I could compete with some of the best college players in the U.S., I could find a spot on a pro team once my collegiate career ended. There was not necessarily a single moment or game when I figured it out, it was just a thought that grew more realistic as I kept playing.

 

How tough was the decision for you to turn professional now instead of finishing up your pharmacy requirements? What are you most looking forward to as a professional player?

 

 It was a very tough decision for me, probably the toughest one in the whole process. I still have 2 years left in pharmacy requirements, but Drake University and its faculty allowed me to pause my progress in the program to pursue this opportunity, so I took it. I am most looking forward to being a part of a team and a new culture that is different than college. Playing basketball as a job is something that I have always dreamed about and now it is coming true.

 

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball. Did you know coming in that Drake has sent many guys to Germany to play and that Josh Young had some successful years with the Tigers?

 

I have only heard positive things about Germany and its basketball. I know that the fans are very passionate and love basketball and I know Germany is a great country with a lot of different and fun things to do. It has a lot of great traditions and cities that I cannot wait to explore and be apart of. I knew that many guys that played at Drake have played in Germany and all have been pretty successful. Josh has been a great guy to talk to about the process and what it is like over there.

 

Going into the summer and after having a very successful career at Drake, how did you experience your first summer transfer period? Did you have ample offers and how competitive was it working together with your agent Gerrit of Scorers First and finding the right fit?

 

My first summer transfer period was definitely different to what I am normally used to. Gerrit was a huge help with the whole process and gave me great advice on how to handle everything. I cannot thank him enough for what he has done for me. I had a few offers from different countries but I trusted Gerrit’s judgment in finding the right fit with the Tigers.

 

Does the fact that you broke Josh Young´s scoring record at Drake give you extra confidence that you will be able to make an impact with the Tigers considering Young has had a very solid career in Germany?

 

 I don’t think breaking Josh’s scoring record has much to do with success at the pro level. Playing at the same level he did in college gives me some level of confidence that I can make an impact on the same level that he has for so long.

What in the end sold you on signing with the Tigers Tuebingen. Did the combination of being very ambitious which you both share as they want to return back to the BBL help make your decision?

 

In the end, I knew that the Tigers had a great history of winning and were going to be playing at a high level this upcoming year. I think the basketball in Germany is very good and I think it will be a good fit for my game. Getting back to the BBL is definitely a goal and I think I can be a part of making that happen.

 

Let´s talk about your game. What really stands out at first is that you can really score the ball, but also know how to fill up the stat sheet. What other strengths do you have that wouldn´t qualify you as a one dimensional player?

 

 Besides scoring and being able to fill up the stat sheet, I think my leadership and confidence along with being a high basketball IQ player would qualify me as more than just a one dimensional player. I believe being really strong mentally is vital to being a successful player at any level and I have that ability.

 

You’re a guy that can flat out score and have a lethal shot. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit your style?

 

I think the player in the NBA who would best fit my style would be Goran Dragic. His ability to score, pass and handle a team is very comparable to what I bring to the table. He is a very smart and effective player that I really like to watch and model my game after.

 

You once stated that there are three aspects to scoring. Attacking the rim, free throws and perimeter shooting. You stated you want to be aggressive, but stay under control. How much of a challenge is it for you being aggressive, but under control and what has been your secret to success besides having good discipline?

 

It definitely took me some time to be able to find the balance between being aggressive but doing it under control and being able to make the right decision. The more I play and get experience the easier it becomes. There isn’t a specific secret, but not pre-determining what you are going to do is very important and having a number of different moves/skills helps to be able to counter what the defense throws at you.

 

You played 125 NCAA games for Drake and scored in double figures in 102 games which is incredibly consistent and had only 9 games in your last three seasons where you didn´t score in double figures. How important has your passion and competitiveness been for your consistent game?

 

Passion and competitiveness are huge parts of who I am. I love to compete whether that is in a game, practice, or just shooting around in the gym in my free time. Being consistent is a result of putting in the necessary work in the off season and during practice to see it pay off during the games. That, along with having the mental ability to adjust game in and game out helped me achieve 102 games in double figures.

 

What were your fondest memories of Drake on and off the court. The teams didn´t win any titles, but what really did you get most out of the Drake experience on and off the court?

 

My best memory, by far, throughout my years at Drake were the relationships I built with my teammates and coaches. Those guys are like family to me and I would never trade them for anything. I enjoyed going to practice and competing with those guys every day and then going to hangout with them after. I always enjoyed winning on the road in terms of on the court memories. It is such a tough thing to do in the NCAA so every time we were able to do it I had an absolute blast.

 

You had so many great games and memories, but what was your biggest personal highlight? Possibly your 39 point explosion against Indiana State or in the next game your 4 point play buzzer beater against Missouri State?

 

 My biggest personal highlight would have to be winning on the road against Missouri State and hitting the 4 point play buzzer beater to defeat them. My 39 points at home against Indiana State was also an awesome memory as well as being able to take Drake to their first post season game in over 10 years.

You never had problems making an adjustment to having a new coach as you had three in four years at Drake. How did head coach Niko Medved give you that last vital touch in helping groom and prepare you for a professional career in your senior year?

 

 I went through 3 coaches in 4 years at Drake and was able to function well with each of them. Niko did such a great job with not only me but our whole team in instilling confidence in us as well as strategically putting us all in the right position to be successful. He knew my strengths and was able to call certain plays and run a certain offense that I functioned very well in and it made our team successful.

 

Who won a one on one in practice you or De Antae Mcmurray?

 

 I did not play a lot of one on one last year but I would say I won the majority of one on one games against him.

 

You played against so many great players at the NCAA level, but which player was your toughest opponent that is in the NBA now?

 

 The toughest player that I had to play against that is in the NBA right now would be Fred Van Vleet.

 

How does your 2018 summer work out plan look like? On what things will you be working on most so you will be fully prepared for your rookie season?

 

 My workout plan has just been lifting 4 days a week, conditioning 2/3 times a week and basketball workouts every day. I have been trying to improve my quickness, extending my range and getting more efficient with different types of finishes.

 

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

 

 I would choose Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, and Magic Johnson.

 

What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate about who is better Lebron or Jordan?

 

I think you cannot truly compare the two because they played in two different eras. The NBA today is drastically different than it was back when Jordan played. I think Jordan was a better killer in terms of scoring and competitiveness, but I think Lebron has a better overall game and is a better overall player. I am of course biased because I have been able to watch Lebron all my life and never got to watch Jordan.

Tracy Mcgrady said that the Boston Celtics will be the Golden State Warriors of the future. Do you see that happening?

 

 I do not see that coming true because the Celtics best players have drastically different games than the Warriors players do. The Celtics could be the best team in the east for a long time but the Warriors are more talented and have more experience playing with each other.

 

Deandre Ayton was the #1 NBA draft pick in 2018. Do you feel that from sheer talent and experience that Luca Doncic should have been the real #1 draft pick?

 

 I think that Luca has more experience against NBA like players and has a very high level of skill. I think Deandre Ayton was a better fit for what the Suns needed which is why he went #1 overall, although talent wise, Luca very well could have been #1.

 

How did you follow the 2018 NBA Draft? How cool is it having two Germans being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers?

 

 I watched the whole first and second round. I think the 2 Germans that were selected by the Lakers will have a great chance to be successful pieces for them and will be able to help Lebron win some games

 

. Lebron James makes amazing passes in every game, but really showcased it in a game this season against the Los Angeles Lakers. He already is like a point guard, but if he played just point guard and concentrated only on playmaking how many assists do you feel would he average per game?

 

 If he was surrounded by a lot of shooters and playmakers, definitely could average over 10 assists a game if he decided to play more of a point guard role.

 

What was the last movie that you saw? Let me guess Black Panther?

 

 Although I did see Black Panther and thought it was outstanding, the last movie I saw was Deadpool 2.

 

Thanks Reed for the chat.

 

Ray Anderson is a 190cm guard from Wilmington, Delaware that was signed by WWU Baskets Muenster (Germany-ProB), but has left the team now on account of personal reasons. Last season he played very briefly with Maramajo Teguise Lanzarote (Spain-EBA). He played at  Virginia Union (NCAA2) from 2013-2017 playing a total of 94 games. As a freshman he played 22 games averaging14.9ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.7%, 3PT: 5.6%, FT: 65.2%. In hiss econd season at Virginia Union (NCAA2) he played 18 games averaging 14.7ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 62.1%. In his junior year at Virginia Union (NCAA2) he played 30 games averaging 20.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 20.5%, FT: 74.5%. In his senior year at Virginia Union (NCAA2) he played 24 games averaging 17.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 3.4apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 75.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about his basketball career.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ray thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how was your summer?

 

Hello Miles, and no problem at all. I am currently in Münster, my summer was okay

 

How tough was the last year for you playing only a game in Spain. Do you in a way still feel like you haven´t started your professional career and are a rookie?

 

Last year was a little rough but I believe that everything happens for a reason. And I also feel as though I haven’t started my professional career yet

 

 

 

 

How big is your chip on your shoulder now? How badly do you want to show the people in Germany that your more than just a player, but an impact player?

 

 

The chip on my shoulder has always been big just coming from Wilmington Delaware, which is a state with great talent but we tend to get overlooked by the bigger states

 

 

 

 

Congrats on signing with WWU Baskets Muenster. It was very late in the summer that you finally found a team? Did your lack of play last season effect this summer´s transfer period for you and teams wanting your services?

 

Thank you so much! Yes I believe my lack of play last season effected teams not wanting my services because I kind of fell off of the radar

 

 

 

 

The WWU Baskets Muenster wanted your services and signed you. How blessed do you feel that you have received another shot and that this club didn´t give up on you?

 

 

 

I’m extremely blessed to have received another opportunity to play this game of basketball that I love. And I want to thank WWU Baskets Muenster for having me

 

 

 

Head coach Philipp Kappenstein was really interested in your services. He really lauded your focus. Has the last year changed your mentality more knowing that you can´t take anything for granted in the basketball business?

 

My focus has always remained the same

 

 

 

What sold you most on joining the WWU Baskets Muenster. Was the fact that they are a team riding a high having just moved up to the Pro B a reason for signing on the dotted line?

 

What sold me the most was how the manager Helge accepted me and made me feel like family. Sort of how my relationship was when I was at Virginia Union. A lot of team bonding

 

 

 

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball. Have you had any friends play here in the past?

 

 

I don’t know too much about Germany except that my uncle was last stationed in Germany before retiring from the Air Force. I’ve had many of friends play in Germany last season, AJ English, Tyaire Ponzo-Meeks and Malcolm and Marcus Delpeche

 

 

Let´s talk about your game. Your scoring really stands out, but so does your quickness. What do you feel gets mentioned more your scoring or quickness?

 

I feel as though my scoring gets talked about more

 

 

 

You’re a scoring guard that can really do it all. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

 

I would say Russell Westbrook

 

 

 

You’re a terrific defender that is as quick as lightening and can easily step into passing lanes and make deflections and steals. Even if your having a bad offensive day is your defense something that is always able to pick up your offense?

 

Yes defense is something I rely on when I’m not having a good offensive game. You can have a terrible offensive game but should never have a bad defensive game because defense is nothing but effort

 

 

Your outside shooting is still a work in progress. You shot under 25% in your last two seasons in school. What kind of adjustments will you make to become a better shooter as a pro?

 

Reps reps and more reps

 

 

 

 

You’re a guy that can easily fill up the stat sheet, but what do you feel is a hidden strength that doesn´t always get noticed right away on the court?

 

 

I feel as though me getting out in transition and getting my teammates involved goes unnoticed sometimes

 

 

 

In your rookie season you played briefly for  Maramajo Teguise Lanzarote (Spain-EBA). Was your rookie season a nightmare or just an unlucky experience?

 

 

It was just an unlucky experience

 

 

 

 

 

You played at Virginia Union (NCAA2) from 2013-2017 improving your scoring and rebounding each season. What were your fondest memories in school?

 

My fondest memory by far was graduating on Mother’s Day weekend and giving my mom my degree

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You had so many great scoring games, but which was your personal best game? Possibly your 28 points in the narrow win against Bluefield State or your 32 points in your tight win against Virginia State?

 

 

32 points against Virginia state just because they are our rivals

 

 

 

How did head coach Jay Butler groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

 

Coach Butler did everything to groom and prepare me for my pro career

 

 

 

 

 

Who won a one on one in practice you or Marcus Hoosier?

 

I haven’t lost any 1 on 1 match ups at VUU

 

 

 

 

How did your 2018 summer work out plan look like? On what things will you be working on most so you will be fully prepared for your rookie season?

 

 

Morning run and then straight to the court for some drill work, eat, rest up and go back to the gym in the evening for a lift and pick up games

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Lebron James

 

 

 

What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate about who is better Lebron or Jordan?

 

 

Jordan 1A Lebron 1B

 

 

Tracy Mcgrady said that the Boston Celtics will be the Golden State Warriors of the future. Do you see that happening?

 

 

I don’t think so but we will see

 

 

 

Deandre Ayton was the #1 NBA draft pick in 2018. Do you feel that from sheer talent and experience that Luca Doncic should have been the real #1 draft pick?

 

 

 

I’m not sure I haven’t followed Doncic much

 

 

 

Lebron James makes amazing passes in every game, but really showcased it in a game this season against the Los Angeles Lakers. He already is like a point guard, but if he played just point guard and concentrated only on playmaking how many assists do you feel would he average per game?

 

 

 

 

He would average at least 10 assists.

 

 

 

What was the last movie that you saw?

 

Last movie I watch was Home Alone 2 lost in New York

 

 

Thanks Ray for the chat

 

When you see Gilles Dierckx on the court for the first time, no one would ever have the audacity to predict any NBA minutes in the future for him, but what few know, the 26 year old 213cm giant from Gent, Belgium may never ever guard Kevin Love in Madison Square Garden or have to endure the nasty trash talking by a Trevor Booker after being posterized by one of his thunderous dunks and having to hear the words”cut down on those Belgium Waffles if you want to stop me”, but doesn´t only have a few NBA stories to explain, but an afternoon worth that would make even a Larry Bird hang around for a few minutes to confirm if those Isaiah Thomas anecdotes from back in the day are genuine. ”Isaiah Thomas would talk about the intensity, it was like those guys almost wanted to kill each other on the court”, stressed Gilles Dierickx. Dierickx who played two years at top NCAA school Washington and lists ex Arizona 213cm giant Kaleb Tarczewski of EA7 Emporio Armani Milano as his toughest opponent in school has had that infectious NBA flair following him around since he stepped foot in the states at West Hills Chaminade HS more than seven years ago and came in contact with guys like 2 time NBA champion Isiah Thomas of the NBA Detroit Pistons, Shawn kemp jr or Lorenzo Romar. That unique infectious NBA flair is still around and followed him in his second professional season having Florian Hartenstein as his coach who is the father of Isaiah Hartenstein who was recently drafted by the Houston Rockets. Dierickx knows that he wouldn´t trade in his unique experiences in the NCAA in the States for anything as it will remain with him for the rest of his basketball life and beyond. “I remember coach Isiah once played with us in 5 on 5 and was still dropping dimes like it was nothing, those guys don’t lose it. Coach Romar well let’s just say you don’t want to challenge him to a shooting contest, that man really has a jumper, he also jumps higher than anyone I know on his jump shot. Being around NBA guys showed me how hard you have to work to make it. There are a lot of talented guys but it will always require a combination of hard work and talent to make it to the NBA”warned Gilles Dierickx.

His first contact with that unique infectious NBA flair occurred in 2011 when he decided to commence on an NCAA journey that would take him to Florida and Washington and three NCAA teams. His first stop was FIU (NCAA) which would probably not even get a second of interest from a talented 221cm big man from Siberia, but when spelling it out Florida International University that poor soul from Russia would have had that warm beach in his thoughts quicker than he could of yelled the word Njet. The chance that the Belgium center would play at a school that had a legendary ex NBA superstar as head coach when there are 352 NCAA schools was minimal, but then again his luck was just hot as he would witness in the years to come. Dierckx remained only one season at FIU playing only 29 games and averaging 2,6ppg and 2,2rpg, but it was that daily meeting and interaction with Isiah Thomas who was a member of the Detroit Pistons Bad Boys of the 80´s that won two NBA titles that made his freshman season like a trip to the candy store for a kid that turned into an overnight stay with unending lolly pops to his disposal. Even if his stay at FIU was more than five years ago, he remembers his time with Isiah Thomas as if it was yesterday and soaked in every piece of advice as best he could. “Thomas always stressed to just play hard. I remember he got really angry with us during halftime one time, not because shots weren’t falling, but because the other team was playing harder than us. He said you can make up for a lot of things by just playing hard”, warned Gilles Dierickx. After not getting minutes at FIU(NCAA), the big man moved to the west coast to top school Washington(NCAA) that has not only produced three PAC 10 tournament wins and three NCAA Sweet 16 appearances, but consistently bred new talent and have produced great players over the years like  Detlev Schrempf, ex Boston Celtic Isaiah Thomas, Terence Ross, Dejounte Murray, Quincy Pondexter, Justin Holiday or Spencer Haws to just name a few. When The big man arrived on campus, he had to sit out the 2012-2013 season on account of transfer rules, but there also didn´t get minutes in two seasons from 2013-2015, but could witness future NBA players CJ Wilcox and Nigel Williams-Goss develop, but had stiff competition with other big men like Aziz Ndiaye who would play in Germany with Frankfurt and move on to success in Japan and he remembers his battles with N´diaye with thankfulness. “I had to redshirt and that was very tough at times because I just really wanted to play. In hindsight, it was important for me to develop a bit more to get ready for the tough PAC 12 competition. Aziz taught me that I had to hit the weight room hard, he was a beast inside and was tough to deal with if you weren’t strong enough. I think I taught Aziz always to block out, even though I wasn’t anywhere near as strong as him, I made it a point to always crash the boards and whenever I got an offensive board I think he was about to lose his mind.”, stressed Gilles Dierickx. In two seasons at Washington(NCAA) he played 28 games and seemed to be just in the wrong place at the wrong time having a beast like Robert Uphsaw in front of him. “I think it was a combination of things. Having Rob on the team was good because it forced me to get better but it was also tough to get minutes because he was obviously a very good player. I appreciate my time at Washington very much although it may not have gone the way I pictured it”, stressed Gilles Dierickx.

After developing further as a player at Washington(NCAA) with all the massive talent around him, he decided to find a new basketball address one more time and didn´t have to go cross country again, but instead not only stayed in Washington state, but also in Seattle and had to only travel a few miles further across Aurora avenue over the Fremont Cut to Seattle Pacific (NCAA2). The only difference now was that the competition was lesser, but he would get the suitable minutes which resulted in 25 minutes per game as he played 31 games averaging 11.4ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 56.0%, FT: 61.0%. He scored in double figures in 22 games and produced seven double doubles and had his basketball self confidence at a new high. “I think I grew a lot as a player. For me it was important to get into a rhythm again before I went pro. It was a great feeling to be starting and playing a lot of minutes on a great team that won a lot of games”, stressed Gilles Dierickx. He is thankful for having head coach Ryan Looney who had that winning gene in him as in his previous schools winning wasn´t on the menu. “Coach Looney knew one thing very well; and that was how to win. In my previous college careers we had not been as successful as we liked to be, but with SPU having a track record of dominating the GNAC each year I think that it was a good situation for me to develop despite dropping down a level. Coach Grant Leep worked with the big guys and he definitely had a big impact on my game”, warned Gilles Dierickx.

That last season in the NCAA 2 got him prepared for a professional basketball career and that certain twist of moving around which he had witnessed in the States in the NCAA with three schools somehow dragged on with him going to Europe. As a rookie, he didn´t have the time to mature and grow with one team, but instead played with three teams in three countries Spain, Germany and Belgium. His professional career globetrotter experience commenced with Arcos Albacete Basket (Spain-LEB Silver)in the third division and lasted only a few months and 2 games where he averaged 9.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.0apg, 1.5bpg. “I left because I didn’t feel like the club was a great fit for me. A positive to take out of it is to appreciate every opportunity you get, because you don’t always know what is going to happen next”, added Gilles Dierickx. Instead of being home for months and sitting by the phone and getting depressed with no calls, he actually got new work quite rapidly as he signed with successful German Regionaliga team Rot-Weiss Cuxhaven who were in the midst of creating a championship season. Again the big man held his own and put up consistent stats in 5 games averaging 13.8ppg, 5.6rpg, 2FGP: 72.2%, FT: 73.9%. However after a little more than a month, he had to pack his bags again and was a bit sad he couldn´t win his first professional title. “I must admit I was a bit disappointed. Winning is what it’s all about in sports. Being a champion would have been great but we all make choices and it is in the past now. I appreciate the short stay I had in Cuxhaven”, said Gilles Dierickx. With Christmas just around the corner, he did get a special present with a contract his third in his rookie season with second Belgium division team Melco Ieper (Top Division I) and closed out the season in fine fashion playing 10 games averaging 12.4ppg, 10.2rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 46.5%, FT: 78.9%. He came into the summer with a heightening self confidence after playing well in his homeland which had him ready for the next challenge. “It was important to me as I feel like I underperformed a bit in the rebounding category at Cuxhaven. But then again I feel like I could’ve done a better job in the scoring category and also finish at a higher rate. There is always something I could be doing better in my mind”, stressed Gilles Dierickx. Even if his rookie season was tough, he wouldn´t trade in his early globetrotter experience as it made him the person he is today on and off the court.

He and well known Sports agency M.A.C Sports Management didn´t let the dog days of summer roll in, but quickly found a new stable fit with German Pro B team Artland Dragons. The big man joined a very ambitious team that was a consistent EasyCredit BBL playoff team in the past, won the 2008 cup with top coach Chris Fleming who would win countless titles with Bamberg and had their share of NBA flair in the past with players like Toby Bailey, Ryan Gomes, Dennis Horner, or Rob Kurz. However a few years ago, the main club sponsor turned off the money faucet and the club disappeared into the German third league Pro B. The club would like to be back in the BBL faster than one can stroll down the main street in the small 13,000 town Quackenbruck where the club calls home, but first need to get to the Pro A which they did last season. He moved to Quackenbruck in late spring after he convinced the club in a try-out that he is the right big man for their program and hoped that he would be able to call it home for a whole season. “I feel very fortunate to be with the Artland Dragons, for this season I definitely wanted to be in a stable situation the whole time and not be moving from one place to the other”, added Gilles Dierickx last summer. Despite having a roller coaster rookie season, the Belgium big man had high expectations of himself last season. “I am setting the bar high as I think any player should. I want to be an impact player when I am on the court, whether it’s rebounding, playing strong defense, blocking shots or finishing strong inside. I want to show that I am a good passer, we want to play together as a team and that will involve every player 1 through 5 to be able to make the right read. I am going to approach every game with the same mindset and that is to play hard, do what coach expects me to do and most importantly to get the win”, warned Gilles Dierickx. He also knew that opponents would be keeping an eye out for his inside presence, ability to finish and handle the boards at ease, so he knew that other assets in his game that aren´t known would  become more valuable for the Dragons. “I feel that the passing doesn’t get noticed but also the fact that I can shoot the midrange shot consistently. That is something I have not been able to showcase much”, added Gilles Dierickx.

However even if the professionalism of the Artland Dragons was a huge incentive for him coming to the club, it was actually the head coach Florian Hartenstein that made the 213cm big man get that special sparkle in his eyes as being able to work with him on a daily basis was wetting his basketball appetite every day. Hartenstein was also a professional player that played at Oregon(NCAA) and had a 13 season professional career as a 206cm center. And with the name Hartenstein, Dierickx was positively reminded again about his unique infectious NBA flair that continued to follow him around like little 8 year old actor Adam Rich did like a puppy whenever the beautiful Diane Kay was around on the set of the American family TV series Eight Is Enough back in the day. The son of Florian Hartenstein Isaiah was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2017 and now once again had NBA talk on a daily basis. It was no secret that it would be very vital for him to be able to learn further from an ex professional center. “It was very important to me. I know that I have to develop more to get where I want to be and I think that he will be able to help me get closer to my goals and he kept it real with me during the work out and in our talks he paid strong attention to detail”, warned Gilles Dierickx last season. However his Artland Dragons stay turned out to last only half a season as he moved back to an old stomping ground to Cuxhaven in December. With Artland he averaged only 9,3 minutes per game averaging 4,3ppg and 3,7rpg. “For me personally I just wanted more minutes, Artland is a great organization but with the signing of Yasin Kolo it was time for me to move on”, stressed Gilles Dierickx. The big man finished the season with the Cuxhaven in the Pro B and was unable to help save the team as they moved back down to the Regionalliga. With Cuxhaven he finished the season averaging 6,5ppg, 5,3rpg and 1,2apg. One thing is for sure, Dierickx knows that he not only would have never have had all that contact to the NBA had he stayed in Europe the last years, but he would not be the player he is today. “I feel like it was very important for me. I started out in high school there and from early on I was surrounded by highly talented players. It was an eye opener to me. I do believe I would not have been the same player now if I had stayed in Europe. Basketball is a much bigger sport in America than it is in Belgium, therefore I believed I had to make that move in order to pursue my dreams of becoming a pro one day”, warned Gilles Dierickx. Even if he was living in a tiny place in Artland, the NBA stories never ran dry, because Florian Hartenstein is a good story teller and there were enough chances on long road trips to Rostock or Bernau to revel his battles with ex Georgetown(NCAA) center Ruben Boumtje Boumtje who was fourth in school history in shot blocks behind Patrick Ewing, Alonzo Mourning and Dikembe Mutombo or his legendary pre season game in 2008 with Giessen against FC Barcelona where he owned one half scoring in double figures against NBA players Juan Carlos Navarro, David Anderson and Ersan Ilyasova. The NBA will continue to be so far away for the big man from Belgium, but then again so near as Dierickx will remember having another NBA connection in Artland as he starts over from scratch again this season in his homeland with Crelan Okapi Aalstar (Belgium-Euromillions League).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Matt Scott is a 22 year old 193cm guard from Brooklyn, New York and playing his rookie season with the Niners Chemnitz. He played four years at Niagara (NCAA) In his freshman season he played 30 games averaging 5.1ppg, 2.6rpg, FGP: 35.0%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 74.3%. In his second season at Niagara (NCAA) he played 30 games averaging 15.3ppg, 7.1rpg, 2.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT: 76.7%. In his junior season at Niagara (NCAA) he played 33 games averaging 17.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.8%. In his senior season at Niagara (NCAA) he played 28 games averaging 19.0ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 71.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

 

 

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

 

 

 

I am currently in Chemnitz Germany, playing with the Chemnitz Niners. My summer has been great and I worked out back home in Brooklyn with a couple different trainers. I was up in Pittsburgh for some weeks working out with Pete Strobl and the scoring factory. And I also kept myself polished playing in some prestigious leagues around New York City.

 

 

Before we get to your interview, I have to ask you about your name Matt Scott. There is another Matt Scott who is a well known wheel chair basketball player. Have you seen your common name more as an advantage or disadvantage at times in your life?

 

 

 

My name is pretty simple. I know the wheel chair basketball player comes up when people google me but, my name is just the tag for me nothing to special.

 

 

 

Welcome to Germany. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? You have played against many players over the years in the MAC conference with Niagara(NCAA) that have or are playing currently in Germany.

 

 

 

 MAAC* – I really didn’t know anything going until I found out I was coming to Germany. I heard great things. Nice people, welcoming, I heard people often times know English, and Germany is well developed sort of like New York. Basketball wise I was told just bring my A game and be myself.

 

 

 

When I first learned that you were in Chemnitz on a try-out my first question was how can a guy with your superb NCAA career not be on a team with a year contract? How humbling was your first summer transfer period? For me it´s difficult to believe that you only got a try-out period? You must have had interest and other offers?

 

 

 Man I have been doubted all my life. I had 1 division 1 offer and now I’m a 3 time all leaguer. 7th all time in points at Niagara. I know what I’m capable of so the try out really means nothing to me. My circle thought this was the right choice for me.

 

 

 

Does having this try-out with Chemnitz after a great career at Niagara put a chip on your shoulder? Has this experienced motivated you further in a way that you have never experienced in your career?

 

 

 

 Like I said before I have been doubted all my life and I continue to do great things regardless of the situation. I’m used to it really I just go hoop. I feel it does put a chip on my shoulder. Maybe that’s why I was so successful at every level I played at in the past.

 

 

 

Could this try-out be a blessing in disguise? Simply because you have learned quickly that nothing can be taken for granted and nothing is given to you? You are fighting for a contract right away in your rookie season with out any gifts?

 

 

 

 

It’s a blessing just to try out be with the team, be considered a pro. I mentioned before my circle and I thought this was the best choice for me. Not thinking I’m going to get cut and getting a guaranteed contract.

 

 

 

How has your experience been with the Niners Chemnitz so far? How is the team and have the players taken you in lightly and accepted you as one of them?

 

 

 

My experience thus far has been great. The coaches and team is cool, together, I get along with everybody and I’m playing some good basketball as well. Everybody is just for the team and working hard. I think I fit in perfectly.

 

 

 

Very experienced American Virgil Matthews was signed recently. How important has he been in the short time for your integration?

 

 

 

 He brings knowledge and he can also hoop. We have had many conversations since I been here. It’s great to have him around.

 

 

 

It really doesn´t matter which player I have spoken to over the years about head coach Rodrigo Pastore, all have raved about his coaching. How have you experienced his teaching and is he a guy that can make you better over a whole season?

 

 

 

 He’s a great coach. I realized it the first day I attended practice. He knows what he’s talking about. He puts players in the right position to succeed.

 

 

 

Let´s talk about your game. You are an instant scoring machine and can score in many many ways. If you had to describe your game to an NBA player who would best fit how you play?

 

 

 

 I would compare myself to James Harden the way I can drive, find the open man and shoot. I am a very good one on one player that makes tough shots and also can get to the foul line.

 

 

 

Your ability to be a versatile scorer is a big plus in your game. How do you feel has your offensive game grown at Niagara(NCAA) and what are your goals now as a professional to continue to help your game mature further?

 

 

My versatility has been with me since I was in high school I played 1-4 sometimes 5 in high school. Therefore I was able to Play 1-3 in college. Just getting stronger and improving my skill sets had already helped me a lot. I think I can play 1-4 as a pro as well

as I continue to get better, faster and stronger.

 

 

 

 

In your four years at Niagara you shot near to 30% from outside three times and was at 37% as a junior. Obviously developing your three is still a work in progress. How much of a challenge is it personally for you to keep refining your shot?

 

 

 

 Shooting is very important. I get up extra shots on my own all the time. I think I put enough work in the shot when I’m open. I know it won’t fall every time but I’m very confident in my jump shot. But if you ask me I’m more of a driver anyway.

 

 

You have always been an amazing rebounder at 193cm and averaged 7,0rpg in your last three years at Niagara. What is your secret to rebounding besides the regular bla blla of anticipation and effort?

 

 

 

 I think I have a knack for knowing where the ball is going to go. I have rebounded for teammates so much I can see a shot in the air and determine where I need to be to get the rebound.

 

 

 

You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet at ease, but what do you feel is a hidden strength in your game that isn´t always noticed right away on the court?

 

 

 

I think I make good reads and I’m an underrated passer. With those 2 things I am able to pick defenses apart.

 

 

 

You had a very stellar career as a player at Niagara(NCAA), but as a team you didn´t win anything. What were your highlights in your four year career?

 

 

 

My highlights were receiving my individual awards and every-time we won.

 

 

 

 

 

How vital was guard Emile Blackman in your first two seasons at Niagara for you becoming a better player? He also came from Brooklyn, New York like you. Did you guys become brothers for life?

 

 

 

Emile is my brother for life. We work hard day in and day out at Niagara. We tried to make Niagara great, a winning program. We gave our best efforts together.

 

 

 

 

You had many memorable games at Niagara, but as a sophomore you hit Marist for 32 points and had 13 rebounds in the exciting 69-66 victory. Was this like a break out game for you and where does it rank in your best games there?

 

 

 

 

 

That Marist game I just played good. I believe the game before that versus Siena I had 31 or something like that. I was just being myself on the court having fun. I had a lot of big games I think the Marist game cracks the top 5.

 

 

 

You’re a guy that improved his scoring and rebounding each season at Niagara. How vital was head coach Chris Casey in your progression as a player and how did he groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

 

 

 

Coach just believed in me and let me play my game and I because of it I was able to play comfortable and freely and produce.

 

 

Who won a one on one in practice you or Chris Barton?

 

 

 

 I don’t lose 1 on 1s it’s not help defense.

 

 

 

You played against many great players at the NCAA level. Who was your toughest foe on the court that is in the NBA now?

 

 

 

 

My toughest foe was my own teammate Khalil Dukes. Playing pick up and guarding each other in practice was hell but it made us both better.

 

 

 

 

 

How did your 2018 summer work out plan look like? On what things did you workon most so you would be fully prepared for this season?

 

 

 

 

 A lot of shooting, handling. Daily lifingt because I know I will need to continue to get stronger.

 

 

 

 

If you had to construct your very own NBA Rushmore which 4 heads old or new would name to the list?

 

 

 

 

 Jordan, Lebron, Kobe, Shaq

 

 

 

 

 

What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate about who is better Lebron or Jordan?

 

 

 

Jordan had his era Lebron has his era they are both amazing players and can say one is better than the other.

 

 

 

 

Tracy Mcgrady said that the Boston Celtics will be the Golden State Warriors of the future. Do you see that happening?

 

 

 

 

 Not yet but in due time if the Celtics stick together they can run the NBA no question.

 

 

 

 

Deandre Ayton was the #1 NBA draft pick in 2018. Do you feel that from sheer talent and experience that Luka Doncic should have been the real #1 draft pick?

 

 

 

 

 I think everything happens for a reason. I’m not taking anything away from anybody let’s see what they do this upcoming season. Both great players.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lebron James makes amazing passes in every game, but really showcased it in a game this season against the Los Angeles Lakers. He already is like a point guard, but if he played just point guard and concentrated only on playmaking how many assists do you feel would he average per game?

 

 

 

 I think he would have 10+ assists because he will get in the lane at ease and force people to help or he will score 50.

 

 

 

 

 

What was the last movie that you saw?

 

 

 

 

 

 Last movie I saw was soul in the hole. Basketball classic!

 

 

 

 

Thanks Matt for the chat.