Halil Kancevic is a 23 year old 203cm forward from Staten Island, New York that is playing his rookie season for Union Olimpija Ljubljana. He started his basketball career at Hofstra(NCAA) and then played his last three years of college at St.Joseph’s (NCAA) playing a total of 96 NCAA games and as a senior played 34 games averaging 10.8ppg, 8.8rpg, 4.4apg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 36%, FT: 58.1%. At the end of last season he helped Virtus Roma (Italy-SerieA) playing 11 games averaging 5.1ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 64.0%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 75.0%. Last summer he played NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas (Denver Nuggets) playing 4 games averaging 3.8ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 75%, 3PT: 50%, FT: 50%. Currently in Eurocup play he is averaging 10,9ppg, 5,3rpg and 1,6apg. He spoke to German Hoops before the Eurocup game against the Brose Baskets Bamberg.

 

 

 

Thanks Halil for talking to German Hoops. You are preparing for the Eurocup game against the Brose Baskets Bamberg. Is this your second time in Germany? What ´do you know about the country and its basketball?

 

This will be my second time playing in Germany. I am only a rookie, but I have heard good things about basketball in Germany. Basketball is growing here and it is becoming one of the top leagues in Europe.

 

 

Union Olimpija Ljubljana (Slovenia-Telemach League) have a 1-3 record in Eurocup play and the Brose Baskets Bamberg have a record of 2-2. You lost the first meeting against Bamberg 71-65. How bitter was this loss. You outrebounded Bamberg and had seven turnovers less and Bamberg nailed only one three pointer more.

 

Every game is different. Bamberg is a very good team and stats don´t always tell the whole story. We let Bamberg get the lead early and then we had to fight back. We can´t let that happen tonight again otherwise it will be hard to come back.

 

 

With the current standings in Eurocup and having lost the first game, what kind of game can we await and could it be low scoring again?

 

That is hard to say as it is never easy to predict how the second game against that team will go. Seeing a team for a second time, you then get a better idea of the players and what the team wants to do. We will want to stop at what Bamberg does best.

 

 

Will it be reaching half the rent controlling Brad Wanamaker who is the catalyst that gets Bamberg going?

 

Wanamaker is a big part in what they do that brings them success. But we can´t forget that they have many other great pieces like Ryan Thompson, Trevor Mbakwe or Josh Duncan. They also recently got a new player with Dawan Robinson who is a very good player. We have to keep our eyes open for every guy on that team.

 

 

 

Union Olimpija Ljubljana (Slovenia-Telemach League) lost both games to FC Bayern Munich. Are they one of the favorites to win the Eurocup?

 

FC Bayern Munich is a good sound team. They showed in both games against us that they have a good idea of what they want to do on the court. I don´t know if they are the favorite as there are still many teams that I haven´t seen yet. However from what I saw them do against us, I wouldn´t be surprised if they were at the top at the end. The quality of Eurocup teams and players has risen from last season.

 

 

You are playing your first season for Union Olimpija Ljubljana (Slovenia-Telemach League). After playing NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas (Denver Nuggets) you decided to come to play in Slovenia. In an article you stated you could of made more money in other places? Is that in countries in Asia where there is an abundance of money, but the level of play is lower?

 

I had no interest from teams in Asia, but from Israel and Turkey. I chose to play for Union Olimpija Ljubljana mainly because I had the chance to play Eurocup.

 

 

How has the adjustment period been for you getting used to basketball and the country Slovenia? Your dad Hido served there in the Montenegro military.

 

Basketball is basketball and the level here is different than in the States. The toughest thing that I have had to get used to is the foul call. I haven´t really gotten used to it yet. I have found that it has been easier for me to play Eurocup than Adriatic league play. I have been here six months now and I think that I have done a decent job adjusting to the level and style of play in Europe.

 

 

You are a complete player at the forward position, but can also play the center position and do many things well. What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t always get noticed right away?

 

 

I would say my passing. We have a very good point guard on the team with Marko Marinovic who does all the creating. I don´t have the ball as much to create as I did in college, but I just do what coach wants me to do.

 

 

 

You started your basketball career at Hofstra, but decided to transfer to St Joseph. What were the main reasons for going. Taking a ´step like that is huge since you lose a year and one has to be content of making the right choice?

 

My coach at Hofstra left after my freshman year to coach at Fordham. I wanted to follow him from Hofstra to there, but Hofstra restricted me from doing that. I chose ST Joseph because it was closest to New York and it was the best fit for me.

 

 

You played three years at St Joseph for Phil Martelli. How did he get you prepared best for a professional basketball career?

 

I had many people around me over the years that helped me with basketball, but coach Martelli helped me most preparing for life. He taught me to be a professional in how I represent myself. He taught me how to interact best with people and just show respect and never to burn any bridges along the way.

 

 

 

You won the Atlantic Ten tournament and was the MVP in 2014. When you look back at this experience, how much did you grow as a player in your last months as a college player?

 

I grew tremendously as a player at the end, because I just didn´t want to hold back. I showed what I could do on the court in a big time setting. I didn´t worry about making mistakes, but just had confidence and believed in myself. I never doubted myself and just played the game and knew everything would be good.

 

 

What was the most amazing thing that you saw Langston Galloway do in a game or practice in your three years at ST Joseph?

 

I played with him for three years in games and practiced with him for four years including the year where I transferred and had to sit out. I remember that he hit 10 three pointers in a game against Fordham. He is a fantastic shooter and that is just what he does and knows how to do. After a while nothing amazed me anymore because I knew what to expect.

 

 

After a great ending to a college career a player might like to relax a bit before getting ready to train in the summer looking for that next job, but you played 11 games for Virtus Roma (Italy-SerieA). You seemed to have no trouble going overseas right away to get your first taste of being a professional and then in a classic city like Rome.

 

I finished the regular season and we reached the semi´s in the playoffs in my two and a half month stay. The whole experience was great as I got a good taste of what high level basketball was in Europe. I saw many ex NBA players and guys playing in the NBA now as well as high quality teams like a Siena who played Euroleague. We had some older guys on the team that helped me giving me advice and showing me the ropes.

 

 

How important was it having Bobby Jones on the team who has seen it all and has much experience on and off the court?

 

Jones was a good guy. He was drafted by the NBA, played some years there and then went on to have a good career in Europe. He taught me how to act as a professional and told me about the mistakes he made and how he got through it.

 

 

Who was the best player that you battled against in the NCAA that is in the NBA now?

 

The Morris brothers Markieff and Marcus when they played at Kansas(NCAA). I had to play them in my first NCAA game and I remember being very excited. The atmosphere was amazing in Kansas and I did ok getting a double double.

 

 

What was your favorite spot in Rome to chill out?

 

That is difficult as Rome is such a beautiful city. I liked being at the Spanish steps and visiting the Vatican. I liked to chill out at Campo Di Fiore enjoying the many cafes.

 

 

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Casino.

 

 

Thanks Halil for the chat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reggie Willhite is a 193cm guard from Elk Grove, California that is playing his first season in Germany for the Finke Baskets in Paderborn. He played at Yale(NCAA) from 2008-2012 playing a total of 97NCAA games and as a senior played 28 games averaging 12.2ppg, 6.1rpg, 4.0apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 67.0%. Before coming to Germany, he had minimal professional experience having played with Reno(D-League) and with Jolly Jadranska Banka Sibenik (Croatia-A1). Currently for the Finke Baskets he is averaging 10,5ppg, 6,1rpg and 2,2apg. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

Reggie thanks for talking to German Hoops. You are playing your first season with the Finke Baskets. What has been your impression of Germany on and off the court?

Germany has been a tremendous place for me to play my first full professional season. There is an abundance of talent within the ProA division as well as in the higher and lower levels. It has been a great place for me to gauge my own abilities and really see the areas I need to improve upon in order to continue to progress with the game of basketball. Off of the court, Paderborn has been great so far. It is a smaller town but the community is very nice and welcoming. It is also in a great location for travel with places such as Amsterdam, Brussels, Dusseldorf, and Cologne close by.

Even though this is your third professional season, you didn´t play for Reno(D-League) and only one game for Jolly(Croatia) last season. Does this feel like your rookie season?

In some ways it does feel like my rookie season. Although I continued to train and practice throughout those seasons, there is a certain element of the basketball atmosphere I obviously missed out on while not participating in professional games. That being said, when playing alongside veteran players I still see myself as an equal. Even though I did not play during those seasons, I still worked myself to the bone day in and day out.

After not playing the last two seasons did you ever lose hope that your professional career may never really get off the ground?

That is definitely a thought that began to linger in the back of my mind for a while. Though, instead of bringing me down, it only pushed me to work harder and harder everyday so that the thought would never become a reality.

How comfortable have you been with your game this season? You have scored in double figures nine times and are averaging double figure stats. On what part of your game do you still want to improve on?

Despite the small successes that I have experienced this season, I am still motivated to greatly improve. I would like to see my percentages from the outside rise during the second half of the season. That has been an area of focus during my training and it is only a matter of time before the hard work begins to pay off. I also believe that my assist numbers could be higher.

The Finke Baskets have lost quite a bit as of recent. What have been the main reasons for the loses the last weeks?

As a team we have struggled to play consistently on the defensive end. There are games in which we play to perfection as a team and there are games in which we unravel at times. Fortunately, it is an issue that we are aware of and are making strides to fix. We have proven to ourselves the level that we can play at when we perform defensively; now it is simply a consistency issue.

The German Pro A seems to be getting more and more competitive each season. Can the Finke Baskets become a playoff team over time?

I definitely think that the Baskets can become a playoff team and this year may be the year that it happens. As a team we have yet to play our best basketball and I believe that we will have a much better run during the second half of the season.

How challenging and enjoyable has it been playing with TY Nurse in the back court? How do you guys make each other better on the court?

Ty is a very talented player. He is definitely one of the best spot up shooters I have seen. With my ability to penetrate, we compliment each other very well on the court. We go head to head every day in practice and because we often prefer to play physically on defense, we tend to make each other work pretty hard and continue to get better.

Your an excellent combo guard who can shift between the point guard and shooting guard spot. With the ability to really slash to the basket, opponents must devise their defenses to counteract this threat. Looks to draw a lot of contact and still get to the rim to finish with highlight reel dunks or pass off. Has excellent vision and lays perfect passes down for team mates. When lining up at the point spot he is capable to run an offense efficiently and directs other players well. An extremely vocal leader when he plays. Plays great position defense. A great work ethic he demands the same of all his teammates. Will be an excellent addition to a team this season. A very scrappy competitor he keeps his intensity at a high level right till the end of the game. He has been consistently improving his 3pt range and will stroke the deep ball with confidence and has to be guarded out there. But what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

People often notice my aggressiveness and abilities as an on ball defender. A hidden strength of mine would be how well I play in a team defensive setting. Being vocal is key to playing team defense and I would say that I am just as vocal on the defensive end as I am running the point position on the offensive end. I also time players well from the weak side allowing me to block shots in the middle. I believe I am currently leading my team in blocked shots for the first half of the season.

It took German Frederik Henningsen 8 years to reach the German pro A last season with Paderborn. He has improved his scoring average from last season this season. How have you see his development and what do you like about his game most?

Because I never saw him play before this year, I can not say much about Fredi’s improvement from last year to this year. This season as a player I believe he has many weapons on the offensive end. People tend to focus on his ability to shoot the three at a high percentage but underestimate his ability to drive and finish. He is a big guard who is also strong and can finish through contact in the middle.

You were briefly with Jolly Jadranska Banka Sibenik (Croatia-A1) last season. Why didn´t this situation work out and what memories did you have from American Ronald Ross?

The situation with Jolly last season was based in logistics. Failed attempts to acquire my Croatian citizenship (my mother was born in Croatia) and various other miscommunications led to unfortunate circumstances for the season. Ron on the other hand, was definitely a positive aspect of the whole experience. Not only is Ron a very talented player, he is also a great teammate and genuine individual. I learned a lot from Ron on the court and off the court as he took me under his wing during my stay in Croatia.

You were with the Reno Bighorns (D-League) in pre season as a rookie, but didn´t play anywhere else. How difficult was this rookie season? How did you survive this season of professional inactivity?

Continuing to stay confident in myself and my abilities was what kept me going. I was able to do so through my support structure and the people I have around me in my life. It was definitely a difficult time for me but I have never been one to shy away from a task simply because it was difficult.

You played at Yale(NCAA) form 2008-2012. You improved your scoring, rebounding and assists each season. How was this Ivy league experience for you on and off the court?

The Ivy league experience was one of the most enjoyable and influential times of my life both on and off the court. I was in great hands under Coach Jones and learned many things while in the locker room with him both about basketball and about life. There is such an overabundance of resources and outlets away from the basketball court at Yale University that I feel it is impossible to leave without having felt like there were experiences that were left undiscovered. Regardless, I was able to learn from and engage in a great deal of extracurriculars that still have positive impacts on me to this day.

You were Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year, the first Yale player to win that award. What NBA player was always your role model as a defender?

I wouldn’t say that I had one specific player that was my defensive role model growing up; I just really enjoyed watching 90’s NBA basketball because of how much more physical the game was on both ends of the floor.

Before your senior year at Yale you trained with Duke legends Christian Laettnner and Grant Hill. What did you learn most from these two legends?

The biggest principle I took from my sessions with Christian and Grant was definitely the importance of confidence as a basketball player. It is always important to remember that if you do not believe in yourself, no one else will.

What memories do you have from playing against Harvard and Jeremy Lin. Did you know then that he would make the NBA?

Despite the fact that he played for Harvard, it was actually very cool playing against Jeremy Lin. I had not seen a player have such an effect on his home crowd in person before. It was as though the fans in the gym were not Harvard fans at all but strictly Jeremy Lin fans. At the time I did not know what the future of Lin’s basketball career would hold. I did know that he had a pretty devout work ethic. When combined with a bit of talent, a strong work ethic can go a long way.

How did James Jones prepare you best for a professional basketball career at Yale?

Coach Jones preaches mental toughness. He is of the mindset that even if you are not the most talented team, you can still win if you are the most hard working and mentally tough team. I took that sentiment to heart. Part of my abilities as a defender come from exerting my will onto the opponent. Being more mentally tough than the man you are guarding can prove to be very effective over the course of a basketball game.

You have been in Germany now four months. What have you learned to appreciate most about the country?

Definitely the language. I could speak some German before coming to the country but my speaking ability has drastically improved since I have been here. The German language is often times regarded as a harsh language but once you develop an ear for it, I think it can be quite eloquent.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I just watched the controversial movie ‘The Interview’ with James Franco and Seth Rogan.

 

Thanks Reggie for the chat.

 

Sean Mosley is a 25 year old 192cm swing man from Baltimore, Maryland that is playing his third professional season and first in Germany with the Crailsheim Merlins (Germany-BBL). He started his basketball career at Maryland(NCAA) in 2008 playing a total of 132NCAA games and as a senior played 32 games: 10.2ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 83.5%. In the 2012-2013 season he turned professional and played for Kotwica Kolobrzeg (Poland-TBL) playing 32 games: Score-5(15.5ppg), 6.3rpg, 2.5apg, Steals-5(1.6spg), FGP: 41.9%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 71.7%. Last season he played for La Fortezza Recanati (Italy-Lega Due Silver) playing 28 games: Score-3(19.9ppg), 6.3rpg, 2.4apg, Steals-3(1.8spg), FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 80.6%. He spoke to German Hoops a few weeks ago about basketball.

 

 

 

 

The German basketball community and league didn´t take this Crailsheim experience positively not reaching the game in Hagen on time. The club left at 9:45 for a 18:30game not knowing what could happen on the high way or how the weather would be. Do you think that the public was fair or has the Crailsheim organization not been treated properly?

 

 I don’t get into things like this but we did our best to get there. Unfortunately we couldn’t make it. 

 

Did Jannik Freese win the most stylish award for wearing his sunglasses during the trek on the highway back to the exit?

 

Hahaha Jannik always thought he was the coolest guy on our team. I always asked him why are you cool? Me and him had a good bond. 

 

 

A week later to the road trip to Frankfurt the club left a day early. It was snowing once again. Do you think that whenever it snows in the future you will have memories to the Hagen road trip?

 

 Not at all because that was a rare situation trying to get to Hagen. We played things on the safe by leaving the night before the game. 

 

You are playing your first season in Germany for the Crailsheim Merlins. What were your main reasons for coming to Germany? Did your friend Dino Gregory give you advice about coming to Germany?

 

I knew Germany was a respected league and I wanted to show my talent on a much higher level this year. No we just talked about some different foods I should try while I’m here. 

 

Since coming to the Merlins the team has a record of 2-11. How difficult has it been losing so much and not been able to get on a winning streak?

 

 It’s always hard when your losing game after game, but we will get over the hump soon an get on a winning streak. We are so close each game. 

 

What have been the main reasons for the club losing so many games. What besides a lack of experience has been the reasons?

 Lack of experience hasn’t been the reason, teams are just having more guys coming off the bench. We usually play 6 or 7 guys. I think it comes down to who wants it more. 

 

Defense has been a big problem as the club have let up 80 plus points in 13 games. Are you happy with the effort and is it more just a lack of technical aspects than it is effort?

 

We gave up a lot points but now we are doing a much better job on the defense end of the court. Teams may score but we give our all. 

 

 

How important was it acquiring veteran Chad Timberlake. Could he be the missing link to further success?

 

 Once he gets back in a good rhythm I think we will start winning more games. He is key to our success for sure. But each guy on our team is also important  

 

 

 

You are a great scorer and was fifth best scorer in Poland and third best in Italy last season. You have scored in double figures in nine of ten games. You must feel very comfortable at the Beko BBL level, but what is an aspect that still needs getting used to?

 

 I have been playing basketball for many years and played at a great university so coming to the BBL wasn’t a problem. I feel comfortable from the first game I played 

 

 

What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?

 

 Doing the little things that don’t show up on the stat sheet. 

 

 

As a rookie you played for Kotwica Kolobrzeg (Poland-TBL). What was your wakeup call to be a professional player in Poland?

 

 Driving to all my away games. Hahaha in college we flew to every away game. 

 

 

Last season you played for La Fortezza Recanati (Italy-Lega Due Silver) and was third in the league in scoring. How do you think you were able to further develop your game last season in Italy best?

 

 I went in with the mindset that this is the year I should put together the best season so I can show my full potential. 

 

You played four years at Maryland in the top league ACC. If you had to pick a player mentor early in your Maryland career that showed you the ropes who was that?

 

 Greivis Vasquez and Landon Milbourne

 

How did Gary Williams help you prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

He always told us to believe in yourself. He pushed us in practice to compete each day and that’s the mind set I had since I left college. 

 

 

 

What was the most amazing thing that you saw Greivis Vazquez do on the floor during your time at Maryland?

 

 His senior year he showed me he was a great college player. He led us game after game and he had a lot of great moments, like beating Duke at home. 

 

Thanks Sean for the chat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Courtney Fortson is a 26 year old 180cm point guard from Alabama that is playing his fifth professional season and second with Avtodor Saratov. He started his professional basketball career at Arkansas and as a senior played 18 games: 17.9ppg, 5.2rpg, 5.7apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 36.1%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 75.9%. In 2010-2011 he started his professional basketball career with Steaua Turabo Bucuresti (Romania-Div.A, starting five): Romanian League: 5 games: 9.2ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.2apg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 87.5%; EuroChallenge: 6 games: 9.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 4.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 38.1%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 87.5%. In the 2011-2012 season he played with the Los Angeles Clippers (NBA), in Dec.’11 joined Los Angeles D-Fenders (D-League, starting five): 29 games: 17.0ppg, 4.3rpg, Assists-5(5.9apg), Steals-4(2.1spg), FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 80.4%, then moved back to Los Angeles Clippers (NBA): 4 games: 4.3ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.3apg, left in Jan.’12, in Feb.’12 signed at Los Angeles D-Fenders (D-League, starting five), in March ’12 agreed terms with Houston Rockets (NBA), in Apr.’12 assigned to Rio Grande Valley Vipers (D-League, starting five): 2 games: 20.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 10.5apg, 2.0spg; later that month called back to Houston Rockets (NBA): 6 games: 3.0ppg, 1.2rpg. In the 2012-2013 season he played with the Los Angeles D-Fenders (D-League): 46 games: 17.8ppg, 5.0rpg, Assists-2(7.1apg), Steals-2(2.0spg), FGP: 41.3%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 76.6%. Last season he played with Avtodor Saratov (Russia-Superleague) playing 33 games: Score-3(17.0ppg), 5.0rpg, 3.7apg, Steals-1(2.5spg), FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 76.4%. He spoke to German Hoops before the Eurochallenge game with the Fraport Skyliners.

Courtney thanks for talking to German Hoops Welcome to Germany. Is this your first visit to Germany and what do you know about basketball in Germany?

I don´t know too much about Germany or its basketball. I have a friend that plays in Germany Jermale Jones. We play pick up during the summers in Birmingham, Alabama. He said he was going to come to the game against Frankfurt.

Germany is your ninth country this season where you have visited. If you had to pick a country that fascinated you most what would you pick?

I like countries that have that American flair and where people speak English. Many people speak English in Germany and so far the food is good.

Avtodor started 0-1 now while the Fraport Skyliners are 2-0 in Eurochallenge play. The best scoring team against the top defense team, what kind of game can we await?

It is the trick of the trade. We will try to play our game which is up and down and I think they will try to play a half court game. We will have to see what happens.

You are playing your second season for Avtodor Saratov. After playing mostly in the D-league and NBA from 2011-2013 you returned back to Europe after being a rookie in Romania. Why did you chose to go to a second division team? Was money the biggest lure?

I was just looking ahead in Europe. The club promised me that they had big aspirations of moving up and I trusted them. I always knew that I could play at the VTB level.

After helping the team move up from the Superleague to the VTB, you guys are holding your own this season with a 8-9record and in seventh place. How much potential does the club have to make a run in this league in the next months?

I think that we have much potential. We feel very comfortable with ourselves on the court. We haven´t had a problem with our offense, but we have been focusing more on our defense as of recent. I think that we will hit our stride very soon.

How much of a challenge has the VTB league for you personally on and off the court with travel?? You have to prepare for so many teams in countries like Latvia, Estonia, Czech Republic ETC.

I have enjoyed this season very much. It isn´t every day that you can visit nine countries. The travel isn´t always easy, but at the end of the day it is worth it. It has been a real blessing for me as this has been an experience that nobody can take away from me.

You have two very talented and capable point guard behind you with Aleksei Vzdykhalkin and Anton Glazunov. They are older than you, but actually have you been able to pick up form them who are seasoned veterans in Europe?

I have learned how to view the game from their standpoint. I try to take what they do on the court and add it in with my speed as well as changing up the game and slowing it down at times.

You are a very versatile point guard that can do it all. You can score and dish out many assists. Are you a pass first guard or would you consider yourself a scoring point guard?

I ask that question myself all the time. When I look at my game I just do what the defense gives me. We have many shooters so I can find them, but if they aren´t open then I can go to the hole or shoot.

What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

I think it is my rebounding. I can get many rebounds with my 35 vertical. People don´t seem to know this and don´t bother boxing me out. I can jump as high as anybody else on the court.

You are tearing up the VTB league and Eurochallenge. You have better stats than last season when you played Superleague. You seem to very focused to get your ticket back to the NBA?

I think that I always have a chance to get back to the NBA. The point guard position is such an important position all over the world that there will always be a door open for me in the NBA and I hope I get that chance again, but right now my focus is what I can control with Avtodor Saratov.

You played two seasons at Arkansas(NCAA) How did head coach John Pelphrey prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

He was very hard on me form the first day. He gave me keys to the palace and gave me total control of the team. I was the unsung leader and made captain even though there were four seniors on the team. He always made sure I didn´t miss any classes. He was like a father figure for me.

Was your 35 point game against Mississippi State your most memorable game in college?

Yes it was concerning how the game went on. I sprained my ankle in the first half and at half time didn´t get it taped, but just sucked it up. In the second half I was in the zone

You had very strong stats as a senior, but didn´t get drafted and played your rookie season with BC Steaua Turabo Bucuresti (Romania-Div.A). How sure were you then that you had been overlooked and that you would get that NBA shot down the line?

I was always sure that I would get that shot in the NBA later. I played against guys like John Wall and Eric Bledsoe who all played in my conference and I felt that I had their abilities on the court. I never quit and just kept working hard. The next season I made it.

What was your wake up call to being a professional player as a rookie in Romania where you knew ok I have arrived in Europe?

I had a triple double my second game in Romania without making a jump shot. I knew that if I would work on that that it would be lights out when I had one. I have been working on my jump shot over the summer with Joe Johnson and just keep preparing for that next opportunity.

In the 2011-2012 season you had your chance and got NBA air playing a combined 10 games for the Los Angeles Clippers and Houston Rockets plus gaining further experience in the D-League with the Defenders and Rio Grande. What was your most memorable NBA experience from that season?

I think just being with Chris Paul and being a sponge and soaking everything in was my most memorable experience. Guys like Chauncey Billups and Grant Hall were also on the team. I was able to learn so much from these future hall of famers in such a short time.

You came to the Los Angeles Clippers when Chris Paul injured himself. What things were you able to pick up from him in your short stay just from talks?

I learned how to play the screen and roll from Chris Paul and from Chauncey Billups how to attack angles with my speed. The pace of Billups on the court looks so slow, but it is all technical and you can´t fall asleep with him on the floor.

In the 2013-2014 season you played for the Los Angeles D-Fenders (D-League): 46 games: 17.8ppg, 5.0rpg, Assists-2(7.1apg), Steals-2(2.0spg), FGP: 41.3%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 76.6%. Were you surprised that you never got an NBA call up?

I was very surprised that no team picked me up. I was the top D-League prospect for four months. I still don´t know why I didn´t get a call. I was never bitter about it, but just decided to stay in the lab and get better each day. For me it is all about looking ahead and not back.

You are living your second season in Russia now. What have you learned to appreciate the most about living there?

I have really learned to appreciate the grind of Russians. Sometimes it is -11 outside, but you still see them going to work with a smile on their faces. I think that Americans can get spoiled at times and forget that. In Russia people go to work and take care of their families and I respect that.

What is your 2015 Super Bowl prediction?

The New England Patriots will win 28-14. The Sea Hawks looked shaky in the last game. The Patriots can score while the Sea Hawks have difficulty coming back in games.

Thanks for the chat Courtney.

Even if basketball is the number one topic on the minds of fans in Frankfurt, at times one can get lost for a split second about the hair schedule of a Quantez Roberston throughout the season. He starts with his afro look in training camp where his hair standing up could give buckwheat from the Little Rascals a smile instead of that surprised look from his famous snap shot and then the Cincinnati native keeps it kept proper during the season with that braided look. It isn´t often that someone comes into the Fraport arena where his hair could be a major discussion factor and even cause a Robertson to ponder about future hair creations on his end. Even if his hair is as long, beautiful and wild like Reggae legend Bob Marley once had in the past, Avtodor Saratov guard Courtney Fortson may turn heads with his wavy and unending hair, but it is his play that has given him the opportunity to play in a combined 10 NBA games for the Los Angeles Clippers and Houston Rockets and made him a top notch point guard in Europe this season. Fortson is a 26 year old 180cm point guard from Montgomery, Alabama that is playing his fifth professional season. After two seasons at Arkansas(NCAA), he started his professional career undrafted in Europe in Romania. In the season 2011-2013, he was in the States getting NBA experience and tearing up the D-league with Rio Grande and the Los Angeles Defenders. Last season he returned back to Europe and helped Avtodor Saratov move up to the VTB league. He had strong stats last season averaging 17,0ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.7apg, and 2,5spg, but this season he has really gone to work and is dominating the VTB league and Eurochallenge play. In both competitions he is averaging an astounding 8,2apg. In VTB play he is averaging 18,8ppg, 4,4rpg and 7,0apg while in the Eurochallenge he has been on fire averaging 16,2ppg, 6,8rpg and 9,5apg. The American has been a real European traveler as VTB and Eurochallenge has taken him all over the place as his passport must be half full this season as he came to Frankfurt Germany to battle the Fraport Skyliners in his ninth country. Even if they don´t play the same positions, it wasn´t difficult not to have an eye on the scalps of Robertson and Fortson. Fortson played his seventh Eurochallenge game this season and helped lead his team to a 71-68 nail bitter win. After the win the Alabama native had a huge smile on his face even if his hair at times was hiding his joy on his face and hair was a topic of discussion. “We did a good job adapting to this street ball kind of game. There was a lot of contact in the game. Frankfurt was a scrappy team that played great defense and have great players and are well coached. I could have had an NBA contract to have my hair cut, but it is who I am. If you don´t like my hair well be it. I trim it at times, but I will never cut it”, smiled Avtodor Saratov point guard Courtney Fortson. His Alabama buddy Jermale Jones who plays for TV Lich arrived just in time at the end to greet Fortson as he had been in practice in Lich and then quickly drove to Frankfurt and gave his two cents about the hair of Fortson who looks like a Julius Jenkins double back in his Alba Berlin days. “Fortson has had his hair like that since middle school. That is just his style. He just isn´t ready to cut it”, added Jermale Jones. One of the first Avtodor players to exit at the end was Ukraine monster and ex NBA player Kyrylo Fesenko who played 140 NBA games and had 14 minutes against Frankfurt scoring six points wasn´t overly amused by the hair of Fortson, but lauded his play. “Fortson doesn´t have to score each game. He does a great job organizing the game and get everyone the ball. I don´t really care about his hair. It is his choice”, said Kyrylo Fesenko.

The Fraport Skyliners entered the game with a five game winning streak in Eurochallange play and recently had their 10 game home winning streak snapped. The club had recently just had everyone back from injuries, bit once again the ugly walking wounded list crept up again as Danilo Barthel entered the arena on crutches and most likely will miss 6-8 weeks with a foot problem, while American rookie Justin Cobbs got hit on his leg against the Brose Baskets Bamberg and missed the Avtodor game and will miss the game this weekend against BG Goettingen. Despite these problems, the Fraport Skyliners stayed together as a team and despite stinking up the house in the second quarter, they rallied in the third quarter and staged another comeback in the fourth and nearly won the game. After a long stay in the locker room where head coach Gordon Herbert must have really scolded his team, the players returned to the floor to stretch with hung heads the way a defeated dog reacts when their master had chewed them out. Sean Armand took the bulk of the scoring load as Justin Cobbs sat on the bench and delivered with an amazing 31 points. Despite his big performance one could see that he took the loss hard as he had been blocked at the end and lost the ball out of bounds in front of the Avtodor bench. “I just did my job scoring and found my teammates. We didn´t play as a team in the first half, but played better in the second half. We had energy near the end and executed well and we fed off each other. We had costly turnovers at the end and it was hit or miss and we can only learn from this loss”, stressed ex Iona(NCAA) guard Sean Armand. For Avtodor Saratov, they desperately needed a win after losing a shoot out to Tartu Rock last week 106-105. The Russian team was lucky to escape Frankfurt with a win and move to 1-1 in Eurochallenge play while the Fraport Sklyiners move to 2-1. “This wasn´t a great game and we can play better. Frankfurt gave us a good wake up in that we must prepare better in the future. It wasn´t a pretty win, but a win is a win”, warned Kyrylo Fesenko.

The First quarter was a real tight rope affair as no team could break free as it stayed pretty even. The Fraport Skyliners broke out on a 6-2 lead as German national player Johannes Voigtmann scored twice inside as did Sean Armand. Voigtmann got going fast as he nailed another mid distance jumper. However Avtodor Saratov got needed production from Americans Jeremy Chappelle who played at Robert Morris(NCAA) connected on a three pointer as Courtney Fortson preformed a finger tip role in Chris Paul style. Fortson was contained fairly well by Frankfurt throughout the game on the scoring end, but he got free a bit in the early going as he connected for a step back jumper giving Avtodor Saratov their first lead 10-8. The game kept going back and forth as Frankfurt regained the lead with Voigtmann free throws and a Mike Morrison second chance tip in for the 12-10 lead. Downs and Quantez Robertson made free throws as the game was dead locked at 14-14. Frankfurt ended the first quarter with a bang as Mikko Koivisto connected on a three pointer and Konstantin Klein drooped a tear drop as the Fraport Skyliners had the 19-17 advantage after one quarter. “Frankfurt came out strong getting some easy baskets. However one could see that the team was missing Danilo Barthel and Justin Cobbs who are a big part of the team. Armand was struggling early with his jumper, but he got his teammates involved”, stressed Fraport Skyliner Pro B player Jules Akodo. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 44% from the field and 13% from outside while Avtodor Saratov was shooting 23% from the field and 28% from outside. Frankfurt had the 13-8 rebound edge and four turnovers while Avtodor Saratov had two turnovers.

In the second quarter Russian club Avtodor Saratov went on a wild run leaving the Fraport Skyliners searching for their tracks. A late second quarter comeback got them closer back to attack mode for the second half. Avtodor Saratov went on a bitter 17-0 run to start the second quarter to lead 34-21 as it took Frankfurt almost seven minutes to get the first points on the board. The Avtodor Saratov run was started by ex Gonzaga forward Micah Dowens with a put back, Fesenko added a baby hook shot, Travis Peterson added a three pointer and fade away shot and Jeremy Chappelle a three pointer. Frankfurt was missing easy shots, coughing up the ball and getting fouls which helped in the Avtodor Saratov run. Frankfurt retaliated after this horrible experience ending the second quarter going on a 11-7 run to trail Avtodor Saratov 41-30. Key in the Frankfurt comeback was the aggressive and menacing play of Cincinnati native Quantez Robertson who scored three times on the penetration and at times one has to ask themselves if he is actually getting better with age concerning his ball handling skills and amazing cut backs and spins that are still present in the 30 year old body. “Frankfurt had many open shots that they missed. Turnovers, fouls and offensive rebounds killed them. Tez did a good job getting to the rim as well as being a force on defense which kept stability in the comeback”, commented Jules Akodo. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 41% from the field and 14% from the three point line while Avtodor Saratov was shooting 39% from the field and 36% from the three point line. Frankfurt had the 20-19 rebound advantage, but 12 turnovers while Avtodor Saratov had only seven turnovers.

Frankfurt continued to chip away at the Avtodor Saratov lead, but never could regain the lead in the third quarter as the Russian team held their own. Sean Armand started off the third quarter with a bang and much needed push carrying the Fraport Sklyiners on a 6-0 run as he nailed a three pointer on transition, made an offensive rebound and put back and free throw as Frankfurt trailed 41-36. Downs and Voigtmann then traded three pointers as Frankfurt still trailed 44-39. Frankfurt was fighting and chugging away wanting to take the momentum and turn the tide and almost did as they went on a 6-2 run to trail only 46-45. It was Armand again who supplied the fire power getting transition points and then drilling home a three pointer. The Fraport Skyliners lost some concentration in the last two minutes allowing Avtodor Saratov go on a 6-0 run to end the third quarter leading a bit more comfortable 52-46. 21 year old 214cm Russian big man Artem Klimenko scored easily over Johannes Richter and Alexey Vzdykhalkin scored inside. “We didn´t finish plays allowing them to get closer. I missed some easy shots and Frankfurt hit some outrageous three pointers”, stressed Kyrylo Fesenko. Avtodor Saratov was shooting 33% from the field and 31% from the parking lot while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 40% from the field and 24% from the parking lot. Avtodor Saratov had the 32-30 rebound edge and 13 turnovers while Frankfurt had 18 turnovers.

In the fourth quarter, Avtodor Saratov kept the lead until midway through where the Fraport Skyliners made their last run. After Sean Armand started the fourth quarter with a runner over Chappelle, it was Avtodor Saratov that went on a 6-0 run to extend their lead to 58-47. The Russian team played great fast break basketball as Downs scored getting the feed from Chappelle and then the American from Cincinnati responded with another needed there pointer. Frankfurt kept believing in themselves and knew that they had to make a run soon as time was running out and responded with a timely 8-2 run to cut the Avtodor Saratov lead to 60-55. Armand started the run with a lay in as his confidence level was sky high on the penetration against Avtodor Saratov as he was very successful practicing it, Klein nailed a three pointer and then Johannes Voigtmann connected on a perfect touch down pass in Tom Brady manner that Armand caught and scored on the lay in as Frankfurt trailed 60-55. Avtodor Saratov didn´t let Frankfurt have the game that easy as they executed well on the offensive end as alltime leading scorer and rebounder at Samford Travis Peterson got some big production hitting a jumper and three pointer as Frankfurt trailed 65-57. It seemed like Avtodor Saratov had the momentum, but it went back and forth as now Frankfurt stole it back as Konstantin Klein was parked in the corner saw a sprinting Fortson made a quick up fake and let the American Bob Marley look alike jump over the German´s head set up and then nailed a three pointer which was followed by an Armand steal and coast to coast run and lay up as Frankfurt trailed 65-61. Peterson then made a lay in as Avtodor Saratov led 67-61. Frankfurt continued to fight as Klein nailed another three pointer and Armand made free throws to cut the Avtodor Saratov lead to 67-66. Despite his amazing game, Armand made two mistakes at the end getting blocked by Peterson and then losing the ball out of bounds which sealed the win for the Russian team. Forston hit free throws in the last seconds. A last bucket by Armand helped his stat line, but time ran out as Frankfurt lost 71-68. “Key at the end was that we were able to get shots on the drive and kick. Peterson made a big block which gave us the win”, added Courtney Fortson. “The Peterson block, big Chappelle rebound and Forston free throws sealed the win for us”, added Washington native Micah Downs. “When you are down by three you have to execute and we didn´t do that. We learned tonight that even if we had two key guys out, that we can stick with anyone. We just have to execute and make plays. We know that we have a lot of depth”, stated Los Angeles native Justin Cobbs. Avtodor Saratov was led by Micah Downs with 14 points. Travis Peterson had 13 points and six rebounds. Jeremy Chappelle and Artem Klimenko added 12 points a piece while Courtney Fortson had 10 points, six rebounds and six assists. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Sean Armand with 31 points. Johannes Voigtmann added 14 points and Konstantin Klein 10 points. Avtodor Saratov finished the night shooting 66% from the field and 28% from outside while the Fraport Skyliners finished shooting 41% from the field and 29% from outside. Avtodor Saratov won the rebound battle 43-39 and had 19 turnovers while Frankfurt had 22 turnovers.

Josh Bone is a 26 year old 190cm guard playing his first season for the Big Basketball Gotha 2 (Germany-2.Regionalliga). He started his basketball career in 2006 with S.Illinois (NCAA)where he played a total of 53 NCAA games. He then moved to Tennessee (NCAA) where he finished his college career in 2011 playing a total of 38 NCAA games for them. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

Josh thanks for talking to German Hoops. It is past the halfway mark in your rookie season. What kind of experience has Germany been for you on and off the court so far?

I’m blessed man, just to have the opportunity to showcase my talents and get out here and see the world is great! I have my family over and I’ve met some great people out here as well! It was tough at first but I adjusted to the different culture. As long as basketball is somewhere… I’m good!

You are playing your first season with Gotha 2 in the Regionaliga 2. The club has a 8-4 record. How pleased have you been with the play of the team this season?

That’s a tough question. We are a young team but full of great guys with alot of potential. As a team we can always be better, we can improve in so many ways. I can improve a lot as well, this is my first season since high school being primarily at the pg spot and I’m loving it. It’s probably the position I should’ve been playing my whole career because I love being able to make plays for myself and my teammates. I’m learning though and I can’t wait to get home this summer and get better!

What does the club still need to do better to get a big winning streak to end the season?

As a team we just have to play tougher and have fun. On every successful team I’ve been on in the past, we were tough and had fun out there. Our team puts too much pressure on ourselves at times and if we just go out there and play basketball I believe we could finish off really good!

You have been tearing up the German regionaliga averaging 32ppg, 5,0rpg and 5,0apg. Have you felt like a man among boys this season?

Hahahahaha no not at all, I just go out there and play my game, and every game like its my last. I’m a confident player and I know I can play at the highest level I just want to continue to get better and progress at any level I’m at

After not playing for three years after college you have made the adjustment pretty well to German basketball. What was your wake up call to being a professional in Germany this season?

Honestly, just being out here and playing ball again has been amazing for me. Being a professional ball player is something I’ve grown up dreaming about and I knew it would come sooner or later, so I never gave up and when the time came…. Take advantage!

Despite your strong stats are you still able to work on other parts of your game during a game simply because you register strong stats each game?

Yes I work on my game frequently despite having strong numbers every game. I’m there working to polish my handle and shot before and after practice. I’m a student of the game as well so I study some of my favorite NBA guards weekly. I know I can be a better player even with the numbers I put up each game.

With Sven Maeder at age 35 you have one veteran on the team. Despite being a rookie how much of a leader ship role do you have on the team?

 He’s a great leader for us and I learn a lot from him as a leader. Even though he’s the team captain he puts his trust in me to make decisions for the team, as the key player. Like I said we have a pretty young team and I try to teach them as much as I can so I love being in the leadership role.

What kind of advice has head coach Alexander Uth given you that has helped you progress in Germany this season?

Coach Alex is great! He’s taught me a lot about the European game and love having him as my first pro coach. He knows the game and we talk frequently on what I have to do to be a better player and progress as a professional!

You also practice with German Pro A team Gotha. What kind of experience has that been for you and how confident are you that this level is one that you could reach in the future?

Practicing with the Pro A team here has been great. They are full of great guys and they are my brothers! During the practices with them I pay attention on things I have to do to get better. They are one of the top teams in the ProA and I know why because we have great coaches here and they work extremely hard every day! I hope to be playing at that level really soon!

How has Carlton Guyton been able to help you on the court?

Scootie is my brother, he’s actually the guy I spend most of my time with out here because we are so much alike and we learn a lot from each other. We have a very similar basketball background and we push each other every day to be the best players we can be! Scootie is one of the top guards in the ProA if not the top guard and I learn a lot from him!

What kind of feedback has Gotha head coach Chris Ensminger given you this season in practice?

Coach Esminger is great, he’s taught me a lot since I’ve been practicing with them. He’s a legend out here and he knows what it takes to be a successful professional in Europe! He points out the things I do wrong and how I can correct them almost every time I make a mistake and I love that. He doesn’t give me any foul calls in practice though hahahahaha

What goals do you have for your second season coming up? I can imagine it will be a busy summer for you on and off the court with training and decisions where you will play?

Yes this summer will be extremely busy for me. I want to polish my game in every way I can and become a lot better player than I am now. My goal is to get an agent and move up a few leagues next season! I have high hopes for being a great guard in Europe and to expand my career but it starts with working hard this season and getting my body right as a professional.

What is your 2015 Super Bowl prediction?

I’m going with the Seahawks, they’re just a tough team, and Marshawn Lynch is a beast. The Patriots will definitely be a tough team to beat though, it’s hard going against Brady and Belichek.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD I saw was Martin TV show because that’s my all time favorite TV show, but I’m on Netflix with my girl most of the time!

Thanks Josh for the chat.

 

 

Aaron Hawley is a 24 year old 203cm forward from Arkansas that is playing his first professional season for the Giessen 46ers. He played four years at Drake(NCAA) playing a total of 126 NCAA games and as a senior played 31 games averaging 10.3ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 46.6%, FT: 70.5%. He has played three games with Giessen averaging 9,0ppg, 1,3rpg and 1,0apg while shooting 50% from the three point line. In his first game he netted 20 points against Kirchheim. He spoke to German Hoops a little bit after Christmas 2014 about basketball

 

Aaron welcome to the Giessen 46ers. Was getting your first professional job as a basketball player your best Christmas gift?

Given the timing of the deal, getting my first professional contract was definitely one of the greatest Christmas gifts!

You have signed very late into the current season. How tough were the last few months not knowing about your future as a potential professional basketball player? Was there one specific person that kept you positive the most?

The last few months have been quite the emotional rollercoaster ride filled with times of hope and certainty, times of discouragement, and not knowing what the future holds. My parents in particular did a heck of a job keeping my spirits high and encouraging me, reminding me it was in God’s hands and that He has a plan, whether it meant professional ball or not.

What do you know about the basketball in Germany? Former Drake players like Josh Young, Adam Templeton, Adam Emmenecker, Ben Simmons or Richard Carter have had their experiences in Germany. Did you talk to anyone of them in helping with your decision?

Even though a lot of former teammates have played in Germany, I don’t know a whole lot about the style of the game. I had talked to a few of them briefly awhile back but no much about German basketball.

How would you describe your style? You are a 203cm guard/forward. Would you classify yourself as a swingman and what is your biggest strength on the court?

I definitely describe myself as a perimeter player with my greatest strength being shooting the ball, whether I am spotting up, or coming off screens

As a junior you logged 38 minutes scoring 12 points and netting the clincher against Bradley. What memories do you have of this game and how glad were you that American Taylor Brown only played 7 minutes in that game after dominating in the Bradley other win that season with 28 points and 12 boards?

Clinching the win with a big shot against Bradley as a junior was fun because it was on the road and it’s always fun to silence the crowd. I was also filling in that starting role so to be able to contribute in such a way was a confidence builder.

In the 2012-2013 season you took a year off. What reasons did you have for this and how difficult was it getting back to the team the next season after not having played?

 

My year off during the 2012-2013 season was much needed. My confidence had become nonexistent due to several factors and being told by the coaches that they didn’t need me for next season, I knew it was time to take a break from the game and get my feet back under me. It gave me time to look at basketball from a different perspective and mature as a person and basketball player.

As a freshman your teammate was Josh Young who was a senior. What memories do you have of him as a player and person? Did you learn some three point shooting from him?

It was a great experience as a freshman playing alongside senior Josh Young. He was a great player in Drake history and gave me the opportunity to learn several things about the game from him. He was an all around guy, on and off the court, so I was fortunate to be able to learn so much from him during my first year.

How excited are you to see Richard Carter again who will meet you in Giessen with his team Bayer Giants Leverkusen for a battle. What will be the first thing that you will ask him besides the typical bla bla bla?

Richard Carter was obviously a teammate of mine last year at Drake, but he’s also a great friend. So I am very excited and looking forward to seeing him again on the hardwood and being able to catch up a little on how he has been enjoying life in Germany.

Who won a one on one in practice last season you or Chris Caird?

Chris Caird and I played one on one several times throughout my senior year. We went at it several times with each of us beating the other, which fueled us on to play more and play harder. It was good work for both of us.

What was the last DVD movie that you watched?

The last DVD I watched was Lone Survivor.

 

Thanks Aaron for the chat.