Sterling Carter is a 24 year old 183cm point guard from Seattle, Washington and was playing his rookie season in Germany with Pro A team Dragons Rhondorf. Today the club announced thathe was heading home thus ending his rookie season. He started his basketball career at Pacific, then played three years at Seattle(NCAA) and finished at Purdue in 2014. Carter played 25 games averaging 15,6ppg, 3,5rpg and 3,5apg. He spoke to German Hoops about his rookie season and why he left.

 

 

 

Sterling thanks for talking to German Hoops. Today came the announcement that you have left the Dragons Rhondorf to go back home. With what kind of feelings are you leaving Germany?

I’m leaving Germany with my head held high and grateful for the opportunity in Rhondorf that I had to Play my First Professional Season.

The club stated that you were going home, because of personal reasons while head coach Christian Mehrens had signalized that you wouldn´t be playing a role for the rest of the games. Was it really a bit of both or was it just personal reasons?

Well honestly it was the fact that I worked really hard all season and stuck with the club through a lot of things then the head coach tells the team he’s only going to play the guys he wants to be back next season and with me having a wife and child I figured it would be best to just go back to my family because it’s not fair to them if I’m just away sitting on the bench. I’ve been away from them for 7 months and if I’m not doing my job anymore no need to keep them waiting my family is very important to me they support my every move.

I am sure when you came to Rhondorf, you never expected your rookie season to go like this. Was your rookie season like a bad dream where you never woke up from?

Well honestly it wasn’t as bad as it looked. I learned a lot from playing there and it motivated me and I know now that the only way I can go from this situation is up. I left with no hard feelings

The club has only two wins. Players came and went and a good team chemistry was never built. Was this a big reason why the club was never able to get a consistent level in their play?

Yea I think it had to do with that and a few other things but I enjoyed those two wins and I know that me and the guys that was there the whole time those games meant a lot for us to win.

Obviously players came and went, but you always stayed and as the leader had to keep the ship afloat. Were these duties just a bit too much for you as a rookie?

No it wasn’t too much for me and it was actually a good challenge for me and it has helped me a lot. But with me being a rookie it was hard to gain the trust of a few guys. I gave my all to the club and sad it had to end this way but everything happens for a reason.

Did you at times feel like being let down from your teammates, because you seemed like you had to do so much on the court. Did you really want to do this or were you in a way forced to have to take many shots?

No I was never let down by my teammates. They all worked hard and played their best and it was me that had the ability to take and make shots that was my role on the team.

You took a total of 218 three pointers and shot 33,5%. Some said you were taking too many shots and not creating enough for your teammates. Do you feel that this might have created a little rift early within the team that was never healed?

Yea well those shots I took where the same from the start of the season to the end I was asked to take and make shots and for those people that thought I didn’t create enough. I would just tell them to go back and look at some of the game film. I almost averaged 4 assists a game and I think my team understood what my role was and what I was good at.

Do you feel like if their had been better communication between you and Boris Kaminski earlier that it could have had an effect on the outcome of the season?

Well I think that if he would have communicated to the whole team what he communicated with me then we would have all be on the same page a little earlier but I would blame our season on that.

What was your biggest highlight of the season? Possibly your 31 point game in the win against the Bayer Giants Leverkusen?

I would say my biggest highlight was my game against Nürnberg when I had 17 points and 10assists It was my first double double being a professional and I feel like it showed that I can create and score the ball as well.

What did you learn from your rookie season in Germany with Rhondorf that will make you better as a player in the future?

I learned that you have to be mentally tough to play professionally and that it takes a strong guy to be able to travel across the country and play in an unfamiliar environment. I also learned that if you want to be the best you have to start at the bottom and earn your respect on your way to the top and I feel that I earned a lot of respect in the Pro A this season.

How would you like the Rhondorf fans to remember you. Could you please give some last words to the faithful supporters?

I just want them to know that I gave them my all in my time there and that I will forever have them in my heart and wish them all the best for their seasons to come.

What is the next professional step for Sterling Carter? Would you like to play in Germany next season if the opportunity comes along?

I will like to play where ever the best opportunity is for me and my family with no specific place, but just the best opportunity I’m open to just about all.

How do you recap the NBA trade line deals? What teams did the best?

I don’t think any team really gained much of an upper hand in the trades no one made a big trade at all which was a shocker to me.

Ex NBA players have attacked the Golden State Warriors saying the NBA isn´t as physical as it once was. Are these players just jealous or would Steph Curry and the Warriors not dominate say 20-30 years ago?

Haha I don’t know the league back then was very physical and I’m not sure guys back then would allow him to do the things he’s doing but we will never know.

Recently ESPN ranked the top 100 NBA players of all time. They placed Lebron James at #3 before NBA legends Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Bill Russell. Do you feel that is justified?

No I don’t agree with that won’t be able to tell until Lebron retires.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Ride Along 2.

 

Thanks Sterling for the chat.

 

 

 

Thaddus Mcfadden is a 28 year old 188cm guard from Flint, Michigan playing his seventh professional season and second with Petrolina AEK Larnaca (Cyprus-Division A). Last season he played 25 games: Score-5(15.6ppg), 2.8rpg, 2.5apg, Steals-1(1.8spg), FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 79.7%. He started his basketball career at St. Clair CC (NJCAA)in 2006 and then moved Fairmont St. (NCAA2) and played there form 2007-2009 and as a senior played 29 games: ScoreNCAA2-2(25.4ppg), 5.4rpg, 3.9apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 79.6%. He started his professional basketball career in 2009 with SLUNETA Usti nad Labem (Czech Republic-NBL) where he played until 2012. In the 2012-2013 season he played for the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig (Germany-BBL) playing 15 games: 5.4ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 39.4%, 3FGP: 39.5%, in Jan.’13 loaned to SLUNETA Usti nad Labem (Czech Republic-NBL) playing 14 games: 16.4ppg, 3.5rpg, 4.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 80.6%. In the 2013-2014 season he played for Cytavision Apoel Nicosia (Cyprus-Division A) playing 15 games: Score-2(14.1ppg), 3.1rpg, 2.9apg, Steals-1(2.5spg). He spoke to German Hoops during the Europe Cup playoff series against the Fraport Skyliners some weeks ago.

 

 

 

Thad thanks for talking to German Hoops. Welcome back to Germany. How often were you back in Germany since your short stay with Braunschweig?

This will be my first time back in Germany since I left Braunschweig

After being a top player in the Czech Republic, you have found a second home in Cyprus in your third season there. Is Cyprus a place where you could see yourself playing many more years?

Yes Cyprus has been my second home, I don’t know what the future will hold only God knows but yes, I have built a lot of good relationships in Cyprus and have had a lot of good memories in Cyprus

Two seasons ago you were second in league scoring with Cytavision Apoel Nicosia and last season fifth with AEK. What makes this level and style so appealing to your game?

I can make any style of basketball at any level of basketball appealing to my game. I’m a very confident player and I feel like as a player you have to know every country is different as there will be adjustments, you just have to make it fit in with your game. I was used to the run and gun high scoring games but here in Cyprus I had to adjust to the more physical, grind it out games, more defensive game which I take great pride in. Our goal as team is to make teams score around 60-70, in in both league (Cyprus and fiba) we are around that. We take pride in defense

AEK currently is in first place with a record of 11-2 tied with Kernavos. What has been the secret to the success of the team?

Defense, team work chemistry and coaching. We play together and everybody in the locker room likes each other and it’s like a big family, we can count on each other on and off the court, you should see the group chats we have , may seem simple but if you did, you’ll see this team cares for the next player and I feel like that’s big and this team represents the coaching, and our coach is a winner, and I love that because I feel like when you step on the court it’s about will and who wants it, not about what level this team is or this team has a huge budget, so coach is a huge part of the success and we have to keep up a level head because we still have goals to accomplish

The club has 8 players 30 or older. How vital has the experience factor been for the team being so successful?

Funny because I’m one of the young guys at 28 we joke about that lol but it’s been key, especially in close games, we have been in a lot of close games and tough situations but remained calm because with experience you know what to do and how to adjust but it’s been a blessing for me especially because I’m learning and learning so I’m taking advantage

In the last round of Europe Cup the team had a 3-3 record, but could easily have been 5-1. How bitter was losing the last 2 games by a combined total of 4 points?

Well it’s easy to get over it when you advance lol but honestly it was tough to swallow, because it would of been great to have home court advantage for round of 16 in front of our amazing fans but since I’ve been here and we all joke about it, nothing has been easy we always do things the hard way, so yes very tough losing close games and believe me I HATE losing but it’s over, learn from it and move on, we still have work to do

Is AEK Larnaca a better team than what it´s record shows in Europe Cup play?

Yes I strongly believe this, coach says it all the time, we have not reached our full potential as a team yet and even after a win he’s on us like we lost because he knows how good we can be. We have had a couple of injuries which I hate to use as a nexcuse, so we played short- handed in a couple games and having our big man out as he is a key player to our team, it was tough but we still believed and found ways to win games now with him being back and addition of CJ Leslie just made us stronger.

You were the go to guy at Fairmont State(NCAA2), BK Usti and Labem, and Cytavision Apoel Nicosia. Is that pretty much the role you also have with AEK this season?

Honestly we have a lot of guys you can go too, a lot of players on this team play a key role, my role is to be a playmaker and pressure the ball (play on ball defense), but yes I like to be one of the guys to go too.

You are an incredible defender with a lot of energy and led the league in Cyprus the last two seasons in steals. Does your defense mostly fuel your offense?

Yes good defense turns into good offense. The championships I won was due to good team defense, and it’s a fact playing good defense is a confidence builder. There are several factors to good defense where the other team shoots a bad shot adds to a long rebound easy fast break bucket or a steal and an easy bucket and its a lot more benefits from good defense. They say defense wins championships and that’s true

You are an explosive scorer, can score in bunches and are a first class defender, but what do you feel still gets unnoticed in your game even today

My ability to see the floor, I can play the point guard just like I play the shooting guard, people look and say ok he’s just a pure scorer but I know how to adjust, if you need me to be a pure pg I can do it, and I feel like it shows especially this year

Jujuan Cooley always told you to never be satisfied with your game. What are you working on most these days to keep getting better?

That’s very true. Last summer my focuses was getting stronger to take contact and still finish, my ball handling skills, and just reading situations, learning from one of the smartest point guards in Europe (Jujuan Cooley) helped a lot and I feel like the work over the summer is showing, but still not satisfied can always improve in every aspect of my game

How much of a thrill has it been playing with California native Brandon Bowman? Have you ever played with a guy that worked harder than him?

It’s been GREAT for me, this man lives in the weight room, true professional, take care of his body, works hard in practice, put in the extra work like I said a true professional, great example for me, I know I can go to war with him. He never cheats his self. It’s a lot more good I can say about him, when I think of Bo I just think hard work pays off , lets get better!!!!

Has he infested you with gym phobia. I called him last summer when I was in Malibu to say hi and where was he but in the gym in Santa Monica. It seems like he lives in the gym.

Not to brag but I’m a gym rat myself so it was easy connecting with Bo, because we both had the same mindset when it comes to putting in the extra work, funny because I told him recently I want to come to Cali to work out with him because I see the work ethnic

You now face the best team in Europe Cup play with the Fraport Skyliners who are 12-0. Do you see it as an advantage going in as the underdog as you have nothing to lose or will you have a different focus going in?

You got to love the challenge and we love a good challenge. We are highly confident in what we do and our abilities and we know we are playing a good team that’s been together for a while but we feel like if we stick with the game plan and continue to play good defense and team ball we have a good chance and like our chances at advancing. We are not satisfied with just the round of 16, and we know Frankfurt is hungry too, so this should be fun

The Fraport Skyliners are all about team and totally unselfish and defend very well. AEK also defend well in Europe cup. What kind of series can we await and what will be key to advancing?

You already said it defense and unselfish play, I can see a physical low scoring series, I feel like both team strategies are the same, key for us is just staying consistent in what we do

In the 2012-2013 season you played against the Fraport Skyliners losing 61-59 with Braunschweig. Quantez Robertson had 12 points and 10 boards in that game including a massive ally-oop dunk. What do you remember about his game?

I remember him being athletic, a good defender, and being the leader of the team, from what I see from watching film on them in fiba cup now, I still see him as one of the key players to their success

You only played a half of a season with Braunschweig. Was that just a total misunderstanding from the club´s part not knowing how to use you properly? Plus the guard rotation was quite full with emerging Dennis Schroder?

I felt like the club knew I was a good player but just wanted to go a different way in the style of play. I felt like I could of been very successful there, but that’s the business, you have to do what you have to do, no hard feeling still have respect for the club, firm believer of everything happens for a reason

What memories do you have with your short time there with Dennis Schroeder. There was hype starting that season, but did you think that he would reach the NBA

We was cool, and with us being the younger guys on the squad we connected well and we still do, I actually went to him play in the eastern conference finals last season, but I remember thinking man he’s good for his age and have a good chance at the NBA, and telling people that. He’s playing good ball in the NBA right now and has had a good start to his career. I’m proud of him well deserved

As a young buck what did ultimate professional Immanuel Mcelroy give you with his play and basketball wisdom that you took from Germany?

Mac was the OG lol the one that kept me level Headed, was like a older brother when I was there, taught me a lot on and off the court just about the European way on and off the court, the glue of the team and the guy you went to for advice because he been there and done that

You were a star in the Czech Republic, but didn´t win any titles. What did you gain there in your 3.5 years that has helped your game develop further?

Gained wisdom about the European style and actually helped me in my winning attitude, you can score but are you winning doing only that? Winning is the most important and you can be a key player by doing the little things, doing the little can win games. The Czech Republic gave me more of a winning attitude. I always had a winning Attitude but being in the Czech Republic made it stronger and helped me to realize what I have to do to win in the European game

You played two seasons at Fairmont State from 2009-2011 tearing up the NCAA2 and you continued to do so as a professional. Why do you believe have you been underrated your whole career? Your definitely not an undersized guard to get that label?

Good question!!!! I used to think about that but now it’s just something I feed off of and makes me even more motivated because I know my abilities and what I’m capable of and highly confident in them but I never question God´s work. Every where I’ve been has been a blessing for me, I learned more and more so I have no regrets and just continue to prove wrong and hopefully in the end I can be an inspiration to small college kids in not having to have a big school behind your name

Wiliam Hatcher is only three years older, but in terms of how his career has gone is he a major role model in your career?

Yes Bean is a competitor well I love and represent flint (my city) well. I saw how he grew in his career and didn’t go to a big school and just give me more confident because it’s someone you look up to growing up and also from the same playgrounds as you, so yes Bean played a good part in my career n mindset

How did head coach Tim Murphy groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Coach was like a father to me and still is, helped me become a man, going to Fairmont was one of the best choices I made funny because I had other visits but I just took the Fairmont visit and said this the place for me my mom said you not going to go to the other and I said no need and coach just gave me that killer confidence, that if you want something work for it and get it, and don’t let no tell you you can’t

Who was the toughest guy that you battled in college that made the NBA or is in Europe?

My best friend Kevin Tiggs not saying this because we are close but Kevin Tiggs I played him in junior college, could do it all and still can, athletic forward, don’t have many weaknesses, a good all around talent

What is the state of Lebron James in 2016? When all is said and done will he be mentioned in the same breath as a Michael Jordan?

That’s tough Micheal Jordan is the greatest and I do believe Lebron is the best overall talent I’ve seen because his size and what he can do with his size is unbelievable but in the same breath as Jordan the GOAT that’s tough, as there will never be another Jordan my opinion

What was the last movie that you saw?

John Wick lol my favorite movie

 

Thanks Thad for the chat.

Bryan Smithson is a 30 year old 185cm point guard from Kennesaw,Georgia playing his thried season in Germany. He started his basketball career at Middle Tennessee St. (NCAA) in 2003 where he played two seasons. He then moved to NC-Asheville (NCAA) where he finished his college career and as a senior played 29 games: 16.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 4.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3Pts: 41.1%, FT: 83.5%. He played two seasons for the Kirchheim Knights in the German Pro A where he was top 5 in assists in the league the last two seasons. Last season for Kichheim he played 28 games: 12.0ppg, 3.4rpg, Assists-5(5.0apg), FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 88.2%. This season he is playing for the MLP Academics Heidelberg and spoke to German Hoops after the big 63-62 win against the ETB Wohnbau baskets Essen.

 

 

Bryan congrats on the 63-62 win against the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen. For a rare time you weren´t the hero at the end of the game, but it was actually your teammate American Devon White. You have won games at the end on numerous occasions this season. Does it seem strange when someone else does what you have done so often this season?

Hi Miles, thank you for the interview and the congratulations. I felt very satisfied that Devon was able to make such a big defensive play at the end of the game vs. Essen. Individually speaking, it must be gratifying for him due to the history he has with Essen, but Devon also understood the importance of this game for our team and he came through for us. I do not feel strange if I am not making the game winning play, but it gives me that much more confidence in my team at the end of games.

The MLP Academics Heidelberg proved again how well they stick together as a team in tense moments. Was this win another step in the long march towards reaching a playoff spot?

We are still learning here in Heidelberg. Many changes have taken place this season and we are still developing our chemistry week to week. Every win is a step toward reaching the playoffs.

It was another very hard battle until the end between Heidelberg and Essen. Was this game another example really how balanced the German Pro A is in that you can´t take any nights off?

Essen is a tough team and we knew it would be a battle on our home court. They have a lot of experience to go along with a coach who competes every season in a tough German ProA league. There is no nights off in this league and you have to be focused on your opponent every week or you will get beat.

Devon White won the game with a free throw and then made a big block of top Essen player Tre Bowman. Did White once again prove that he is without a doubt the team´s best defender?

Devon’s extra effort at the end of the game ensured that Essen did not get another shot at the basket to win the game. He is special defensively and I would call him our most versatile defender. Devon is able to guard every position on the floor because of his length and athleticism. When a player like that is on the court it opens up many options when it comes to defensive schematics.

Did you see video of Steph Curry´s winning three against The Thunder last night? As a guy who has hit numerous big shots this season and otherwise in your career, do you ever think about big winning shots that have been made when you are on the floor in clutch moments?

I was lucky enough to witness the shot Steph hit vs OKC the other night. I do think about big winning shots, but I try to stay focused on my personal success with those shots because it gives me the confidence I need at that pivotal moment. Off the floor, I am no different than any other basketball player putting myself in the shoes of the great ones and imagining how I might react in the game winning situations they are in.

You are the leader on the team and have come up big so many times this season in games. How quickly did you notice in the game against Essen that you had to be more of a scorer than a creator?

I took a quick rest on the bench at the start of the 2nd quarter and at that time I realized I needed to be more aggressive offensively. When I checked back into the game I made sure to establish myself as a threat with the ball and that allowed the other guys to play off me later in the game. Sometimes it is necessary for me to take the scoring mentality on this team.

The MLP Academics Heidelberg are 12-12 now and in good range of making the playoffs. How much did the losses against Leverkusen and Baunach hurt?

The losses against Leverkusen and Baunach hurt because every loss hurts your chances to reach the playoffs. Of course, at this time of year losses are magnified but when I look back to earlier in the season, we let a few games slip that equivalently hurt our campaign for the playoffs.

Before the win against Essen, Heidelberg had lost five of their last six games. The team didn´t play particularly bad, but just had some misfortune in this stretch. What does the team need to do better in the next five games to reach the playoffs?

For Heidelberg to make the playoffs it is simple, we need to win 3 of the next 5 games. In order to accomplish that, we must be better offensively by moving the ball and making decisions purposefully. On the defensive end, we have got to put together longer stretches of discipline and make the 2nd and 3rd rotation consistently.

Recently you played 50 minutes scoring 31 points and dishing out 11 assists in a 94-90 loss to Baunach. What hurt more as the siren sounded, your muscles or losing another tight affair?

The pain of losing such a hard fought game drained me physically and maybe even more than the 50 minutes itself.

You really are playing a lot of minutes at the moment. What is key at age 30 to be as fresh as possible in the stretch run of a season?

At my age it is important for me to understand how my body moves, reacts, and recovers to different stimuli. Understanding my body and listening to it is the key to performing night in and night out. I am typically the first one in the gym and the last one to leave. My teammates often times laugh at me for the things that I do but hopefully it rubs off on them and they start to understand the importance of it all. Also, I am extremely lucky to have a great medical team in Heidelberg that continue to help me achieve my physical goals.

How do you recap the NBA trade line deals? What teams did the best?

There were not any deals that excited me this season. The Clippers made a great move to receive Jeff Green which will help them throughout the rest of the season. The only other deal that I liked was the Hawks bringing Hinrich back because he gives them some more experience that will be important come playoff time.

EX NBA players have attacked the Golden State Warriors saying the NBA isn´t as physical as it once was. Are these players just jealous or would Steph Curry and the Warriors not dominate say 20-30 years ago?

I can not say the players from the past are jealous, however, it is apparent that they are just as competitive today as they were when they played in the NBA. I think it comes out in bad taste because they had their time and instead of trying to compare eras, everyone should sit back and have fun watching history be made. The NBA is not as physical today but the NBA was not as athletic before so it is impossible to compare. I am enjoying watching the Warriors win and I am excited that I get to see a guy like Steph Curry do the things he does.

Recently ESPN ranked the top 100 NBA players of all time. They placed Lebron James at #3 before NBA legends Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Bill Russell. Do you feel that is justified?

Rankings are always messy and debatable because everyone bases their rankings upon different criteria. To keep it simple, I think it is premature to rank Lebron in front of Larry Legend, Magic Johnson, and Bill Russell.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Zookeeper with Kevin James.

 

Thanks Bryan for the chat.

 

Andrew Jones is a 32 year old 191cm shooting guard that has been a professional basketball player since 2007 and has returned back to the Dresden Titans this season. He played at Miles(NCAA2) and has played in Germany for most of his professional career with four seasons with the Dresden Titans and three seasons with the BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga). He also gained experience playing with teams like Marietta Storm (SEBL), BC Celtics (SEBL), C.B. Aridane (Spain-EBA) and Universidad Tecnologica Equinoc. Quito (Ecuador-National League). Last season he played for BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 19,9ppg, 6,5rpg and 3,9apg. He spoke to German Hoops after then huge 113-88 win against the BIS Baskets Speyer.

 

Andrew congrats on the huge 113-88 win against the BIS Baskets Speyer. Dresden has demonstrated all season long in phases that they can put up points, but is the club now a real lethal scoring machine?

Thanks a lot Miles. I will definitely say yes! We have 6 guys on our team who have scored 20 points in at least one game this season thus far. Our style of play gives us the opportunity to be a high scoring team

After one quarter Dresden put up 37 points. Do you ever remember scoring that many points in one quarter with Dresden even when Jason Boucher was on the team?

I would have to go back and research that one, lol. I know we have 12 solid guys on this team that can really contribute. It’s easier to pass to the next guy when you are confident in their decision making.

If you had to chose one, which was the biggest offensive strength of the Dresden Titans, the field goal percentage(54%), three point shooting(41%), passing(31 assists) or ball movement?

I would have to say the 31 assists. It shows everyone is involved. That is where our confidence in each other shows the most.

On an afternoon where all shots are falling, does one tend to forget about defense at times?

Defense will be the most important part of our playoff push. Sometimes when the offense is going good, the defense suffers at times. However, we have a great coaching staff that keeps us focused on defense.

You have played in the German Pro B for years and have seen so many good Germans each weekend. The three Speyer Americans combined for 56 of the 88 points while for Dresden the German players combined for 60 of the 118 points. Please explain how vital the German role players are in this league?

It’s very important to have strong German players. You can have the best Americans on your team. However, a strong German core will place that team in a better position.

Since the bitter 90-86 loss in Frankfurt, Dresden is riding a 4 game winning streak. What has changed in the mental aspect of the team as well as in the play that has brought the team this winning streak?

The game against Frankfurt could have gone a different way. We took that game as a learning situation for the future. We want to finish games strong. In Frankfurt, we did not have this mentality.

What has head coach Steven Clauss given the offense that wasn´t there previously? Is the combination of freedom and ball movement been something the team has understood to mesh together?

Every player on this team knows if your open then you shoot the ball. Coach Clauss will let you hear about if you don’t. It’s either shoot, quick drive or pass. When everyone is on the same page, it creates less indecisiveness.

Dresden will close out the regular season against high flying team Nordlingen who you lost to in the first regular season. How much momentum will the team have if it can go into the playoffs beating Nordlingen?

The momentum has already started. It is very important to close the last game out. We want to go into the playoffs with great chemistry. Nordlingen is a top team, which will be a great preparation for the playoffs.

Your game also has picked up under head coach Steven Clauss. You seemed to have become a more effective player to some degree. Did Clauss have a talk with you and help you get self confidence back?

I have always been a confident player in my professional career. However, the first half of the season was tough for me. But, that’s life sometimes. Coach Clauss and I have had a few conversations. His positive energy is unbelievable! It’s not the confidence he has in me, it’s the confidence he puts in the team. I’ve seen some of my teammates do things in a game they never done before. That motivates me even more!!!

How much fun is it playing basketball again and being able to play in the playoffs and compete for a title?

This is great! I’m definitely enjoying myself. It’s even better when you know 11 other guys are hungry to compete as well.

How do recap the NBA trade line deals? What teams did the best?

I have to say no matter who got who during trade deadlines, they still have to play the Warriors lol.

EX NBA players have attacked the Golden State Warriors saying the NBA isn´t as physical as it once was. Are these players just jealous or would Steph Curry and the Warriors not dominate say 20-30 years ago?

It was a lot more physical back then. A hard foul back then would be an ejection from the game now. However, people have to understand a good basketball player will adapt to the style of play. Curry could go back 20 or 30 years. He would just have to adapt to the physicality.

Recently ESPN ranked the top 100 NBA players of all time. They placed Lebron James at #3 before NBA legends Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Bill Russell. Do you feel that is justified?

Magic and Bird basically saved the NBA. The game was a lot more interesting because of them. Bill Russell is an eleven time NBA champion. So, when you leave these guys out someone will be upset. When Lebron retires, then we can make an official ranking.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Hoop Dreams.

Thanks Andrew for the chat.

 

John Eggleston is a 26 year old 203cm power forward from Noblesville, Indiana that is playing his fourth year as a professional and first for the MLP Academics Heidelberg.He played at  Pennsylvania (NCAA) from 2007-2011. He played a total of 125 NCAA games. In his senior year he played 28 games: 13.2ppg, 8.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 45.1%, FT: 73.5%. As a rookie or Leverkusen he played  23 games: 14.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 71.2%. Two seasons ago for Leverkusen he played 33 games: 15.3ppg, Reb-2(11.1rpg), 3.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 74.7%. Last season in the German Pro A for Leverkusen he played 20 games: 16.3ppg, Reb-3(9.0rpg), 3.9apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 80.9%. He spoke to German Hoops after the big 78-57 win against the RheinStars.

 

Jack congrats on the 78-57 win against the RheinStars. Did you sense an urgency from the team to want this win after losing a nail bitter 80-76 at the start of the season?

I definitely feel like we approached this game with a sense of urgency. The close loss early in the season was a factor in that, but we’re also motivated by the desire to make a strong playoff push down the stretch here.

The Gladiators Trier played very good defense for three quarters, but let up 23 points in the second quarter. What annoyed you most during the halftime break thinking about how the team went from allowing 8 points in the first quarter to 23 in the second?

We were not pleased with the defense we played in the second quarter, but we still went into the half up seven points. If we go into the break with a lead at home, that’s always a good situation for us.

Was holding Alex Foster and Lakeem Jackson combined to 5 points half the rent to getting the win as the club relies on their production very much?

It was important for us to keep those two players in check over the course of the game. They both are key players to that team, and limiting their output was a big factor in our success.

How satisfying is it to know that even when not all parts of the offense is working steadily like the outside shooting that one can more often than not still get a win when one defends well?

Defense is something that we pride ourselves on as a team. I think tough pressure defense is a strong part of our group identity and we showed how effective we can be on that side of the ball.

How proud are of the team that they have been able to play so well the last weeks despite not having key piece Kwadzo Ahelegbe in the line up?

Whenever you are missing a key veteran presence like Kwadzo, everyone else needs to step up and fill in for him. I think Brandon has done a fantastic job taking on some of the scoring load and Simon has been great assuming the lion share of the ball handling duties.

The Gladiators Trier have won five of their last six games and playing very solid ball at the moment. Is the main goal now finishing strong and getting the highest possible playoff spot and home court advantage?

The goal is the same as it has been all year: we want to improve as a team every day. I think if we achieve that goal or come close to it, we will like where we end up at the end of the season.

You had more of an offensive role with Leverkusen and Heidelberg, but how much pressure does the consistent scoring of Dwayne Evans and Brandon Spearman take off your game to allow you to focus to other things on the court?

With Dwayne and Brandon out there putting on a show every game, I just try to focus on doing the little things to make their lives easier. Those two are the focal point of our team, and it’s fun for me to be able to play with them this season.

Dwayne Evans has been a real beast this season. How has his game made you a better player on the court?

Dwayne is in the midst of a fantastic season right now. Having to match up with him in practice forces me to up my game every day and try to play at a higher level. When we play together, I feel like his intelligence and poise spread to me and everyone on the court.

It has been a different type of season for you as your scoring and rebounding is not what you had in previous seasons, but how do you feel have has the success of the Gladiators Trier benefited most from your play?

I try to bring consistent effort and energy to the team every day. Whatever the coach tells me to do or the team needs me to do, I work as hard as I can to get it done.

You had a very strong game with 10 points and eight rebounds. Can a game like this just instantly give a player new self confidence again or does that come differently from player to player?

I can only speak for myself, but in my case confidence does not come from just one game. It’s something you have to build and maintain throughout the ups and downs of a long season.

How do recap the NBA trade line deals? What teams did the best?

I didn’t follow much of what went on at the trade deadline. All I know is my Pacers stood pat.

Recently ESPN ranked the top 100 NBA players of all time. They placed Lebron James at #3 before NBA legends Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Bill Russell. Do you feel that is justified?

If you extrapolate out for the rest of LeBron’s career and assume that he will decline modestly but continue to play into his late thirties, then I think that is a fair ranking. Putting him third all time based on his career to date is a bit of a tougher sell for me though.

What was the last movie that you saw?

I just watched the Entourage movie.

Thanks Jack for the chat.

 

 

Brandon Jefferson is a 24 year old 175cm point guard from Flower Mound, Texas that is playing second professional season and first in Germany with Phoenix Hagen and currently averaging 10,5ppg, 2,8rpg and 4,0apg. Last season as a rookie he played for KTP Basket Kotka (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 48 games: Score-4(18.5ppg), 4.0rpg, 2.4apg, Steals-2(2.2spg), FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 88.0%; EuroChallenge: 6 games: 13.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 88.5%. He started his basketball career in 2010 for Metro State(NCAA2) where he played a total of 129 NCAA games. In college he was able to improve his scoring and rebounding average each season. As a senior he played 34 games averaging 21.6ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.4apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 45.3%, FT: 92.3%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball before the game against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg.

 

 

Brandon thanks for talking to German Hoops. The Beko BBL teams had a 2 week break between the cup top 4 in Munich. Did Phoenix Hagen give the team some time off and how did you pass the time? Did you visit any nice sights?

Yes sir, coach gave us some time off to recover. I didn’t leave the Hagen area at all. I used the time to freshen up my mind. The mental part is key.

Last season you played 48 games for KTP Basket Kotka (Finland-Korisliiga) and currently you have played 22 games for Phoenix Hagen. In your second season as a professional how do you feel at the moment body wise with the work load of playing in your second professional season?

I feel pretty good actually. I learned a lot from last year on how to take care of my body. It’s a long, grind it out season, and players/teams break down because of all the games. It’s vital to take care of the body on and off the court so you can perform at your best.

Phoenix Hagen is 3-3 in 2016 and in 11th place. What is your 2016 summary thus far in terms how the club has been performing?

We are .500 in 2016 so far. I really don’t think back at all our games, but our last game against Wurzburg was huge for us. We still can learn a lot from that game, but that was one of our most complete games of the season.

Phoenix Hagen often beat teams below them, but lose to teams above them. What do you feel is still missing from Phoenix Hagen to being a type of playoff team?

I don’t feel that Phoenix Hagen is missing anything. If you look back on the season, we’ve beat top teams. We’ve given up 20 point leads numerous times that have cost us, but it’s all in the process of learning from those games. I feel confident that we can make a run at the playoffs and get in. We are in a good spot right now as a team.

The season is still long, but Phoenix Hagen is in 10th place two wins from the last playoff team. How conscious is the club that the playoffs could be a reality this season?

We are conscious of the playoff race. We are taking it one day at a time though. It starts in practice. We have a game on the road this Friday against a great team. That’s all we are worried about right now.

Does Phoenix Hagen realize that they are a very good three point shooting team and if they could just defend more consistently would make the difference between a playoff team and non playoff team?

Everyone in the league knows that we can shoot the three at a high level. Offense can only take you so far. You can’t out score people in this league. The teams are too good. How we defend will ultimately decide if we make the playoffs or not. We have to get stops at a high level so we can get out and do what we do on the offensive end.

Why is the club unable to defend better as it is allowing 85 points per game?

We are more than capable to defend teams. We are growing each and every day on the defensive end. It starts with us guards. We need to bring the intensity and the rest of the team will follow us!

In the last week, you held a very talented Wurzburg team to 71 points. Was that the first step in Phoenix Hagen becoming a good defensive team?

It didn’t shock us at all that we held Wurzburg to 71 points. We can do that every night. Our mindset needs to be like that every time we step on the court. We have the personnel to be a great defensive team, but everyone needs to be on the same page and communicating at a high level with each other.

Usually one looks at David Bell, Adam Hess or you as the main shooting options, but explain just how valuable the shooting of JJ Mann is?

JJ Man is a great shooter. He spreads the court for us even more. He’s not only a spot up shooter though. He can create for others and get to the basket. He shoots a high percentage from the free throw line which also makes him dangerous.

How much fun was it being a part of David Bell´s 36 points against the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg? Does his worth rise with every new amazing game he has?

Dave is a veteran! I expect him to do that! He’s a great player! What he did that night didn’t surprise anyone on the team. We see him put in the work day in and day out! He definitely got us going that night. It wasn’t only his scoring, his defensive energy was contagious. He had a terrific game.

Despite the 86-83 loss against Alba Berlin, was this one of your most memorable games this season as your 24 points stole the show from Americans Jordan Taylor and Will Cherry?

I don’t really think about the game that much. It’s in the past and we lost. I remember one play from the game though where I crossed a player and hit a step back three. I only remember that because it was all over the Internet. Other than that, I don’t really remember the game.

Did your performance against Alba Berlin prove to you that you can play at the highest level in Europe?

I’ve put in the work to be a great player! I know what I’m capable of doing. Need to keep God first and continue to stay humble and just work! Keep climbing the ladder!

You have very solid stats averaging 13,9ppg, 2,9rpg and 4,3apg while shooting 39% from outside. Is hitting from closer range one of your biggest building blocks at the moment as you are at 34%?

To be honest, I don’t pay attention to stats until after the season. I do know that I need to start finishing my lay ups more. I’m getting to the rim, just need to finish. That’s part of why my 2’s field goal percentage is low. I’m not really worried about it though. I don’t focus on the missed shots. I’m already looking at the next play. My college coach at Metro State would always tell me “next play, next play”

How do recap the NBA trade line deals? What teams did the best?

Thought the Clippers and the Cavs both made good trades to enhance their chances. Jeff Green was a big time pick up for the Clippers. I’m glad they kept Blake Griffin because he gives them a better chance to beat the Warriors.

Recently ESPN ranked the top 100 NBA players of all time. They placed Lebron James at #3 before NBA legends Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Bill Russell. Do you feel that is justified?

I feel that they placed him too high as of now. At the end of his career, he will definitely be top 5 greatest of all time. His versatility and the freak of nature he is puts him above a lot of people. His basketball IQ is high as well!

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I watched was The Hateful Eight.

Thanks Brandon for the chat.

 

Julian Scott is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Sacramento, California that is playing his second professional season and first with the Uni Riesen Leipzig. Last season he played for TSV Quakenbrueck (Germany-2.Regionalliga) playing 16 games averaging 29.7ppg. He started his basketball career at Yuba junior college and then played two years at S.Utah (NCAA). He finished at Adams St. (NCAA2) playing 27 games: 10.8ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 70.2%. He spoke to German Hoops before the game against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors.

 

 

Julian a bitter 113-105 lost against the Giants Nördlingen . How did your muscles feel on Monday morning?

Yes tough loss but guess it was pay back for last time. My muscles felt fine tired but fine.

What is the worst about a loss like this when the team played 55 minutes? The body or the mental part?

I do hate losing but if I’m going to lose its going down fighting a triple overtime definitely shows our character against a tough opponent. So it’s definitely physical and mentally draining

Do you sense that the 84-83 heartbreaking loss was in the back of the minds of Nordlingen for the whole 55 minutes?

Who knows I mean that was earlier in the year but I believe everyone was exhausted and it came down to the little things in the end.

The Uni Riesen Leipzig played a three OT game and you played 48 minutes. Can you remember ever playing so many minutes in one game?

I played I believe 45 mins this season in an overtime game against Ehingen so yeah pretty close.

Lets talk about the game as your memory is still fresh. At halftime, the Giants were leading 45-39. Was there any moment were you were feeling this could be a long afternoon/night?

Nope I knew it would be a close game all of our games are close but no one can predict a battle like that.

After three quarters of good scoring for Nordlingen, Leipzig buckled down in the fourth quarter taking the game in OT limiting the Nordlingen scoring machine to four points. What was key for limiting them so much?

It just came down to who wanted to win I believe we wanted it just as bad as they did. We needed to find ways to respond and we did it on the defensive end. They just responded and kept throwing more punches.

Leipzig had the 69-67 lead for three minutes until Leo Vrkas sent the game into OT with a bucket. He actually scored the last two baskets before OT. Did Leipzig suffer some defensive breakdowns in this phase of was the mental part also present?

It just came down to fatigue that’s all he hit some big shots to help his team and all you can do is tip your hat to the guy.

In the second OT, it looked like Nordlingen would finally pull through and win as Janek Schmidkunz hit a three, but once again Leipzig never gave up and got to a third OT once again with free throws. How confident was your team just being able to do what you wanted to and draw the foul when it was needed?

At that point I thought we were going to pull through and win the game after that foul but it wasn’t in our favor to finish it right then and there.

In the third OT Nordlingen had had enough pouring home 19 points. Was there a fatigue factor present in the third OT?

Yes I think any game in a triple overtime fatigue is going to set in they just responded better and knew how to win.

Despite the heartbreaking loss was there anything possible that the UNI Riesen Leipzig could take that will be able to spurn them on to further success in the next games?

O definitely we go into every game knowing we are to going give each opponent hell. We are a small bunch but very confident as well so we have short memory’s and its on to the next one.

How challenging was it battling Jordan Talbert twice this season? You both are the two best forwards in the Pro B south.

Talbert is a good player so with that you just have to do the best you can. We did a solid job defending throughout the course of the game.

Is the fact that four players combined for 100 of the 105 points scare you a bit?

Doesn’t scare in any kind of way, because we made it into the playoffs with this same group of guys we have had a lot of adversity we weren’t expected to make the playoffs but we made it happen so I’m as confident as ever with this group.

How proud are you that the club stuck with a very powerful Nordlingen team despite having a seven man rotation and five guys that combined for 259 minutes?

I’m proud we fought hard I’m not happy about losing ever but if your going to lose go out swinging and for the most part we did that.

With two games remaining, you have scored in double figures in every game and registered 13 double doubles. Has your game progressed the way that you have liked going into the playoffs?

My game as player has progressed as far as a mental standpoint that’s what I care about right now learning how to be more effective and help get the best out of my teammates each and every game. I still have much to learn.

Do you see yourself becoming more of a beast in the playoffs?

I play as hard as I can every game so I’m not really focused on trying to be more of a beast haha just want to compete with my guys and see what happens.

The next game is against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors that beat you 79-66 in Frankfurt. What memories do you have of that game?

I remember they were physical but we weren’t all that gelled as a team yet I look forward to playing Frankfurt at full strength this next time around.

The rebounds and 23 turnovers were a huge issue in the Frankfurt game. What will be key in getting the win on the weekend?

For me I will try and be a monster on the boards and give the team all I have. We just need to compete that’s it we do that we can beat anyone in this league. I truly believe that from the number 1 team to the dead last team.

How do recap the NBA trade line deals? What teams did the best?

I would say best come up clippers with Jeff Green

What was the last movie that you saw?

Last movie would be CREED.

 

Thanks Julian for the chat.

Thanks Miles