Taylor Brown is a 25 year old 198cm forward from Atlanta that will be starting his third professional season where hard work has taken him from the third league in Germany via Sweden and the first division in Belgium to Darussafaka Dogus Istanbul (Turkey-TBL) this season. He played at Bradley(NCAA) from 2008-2012 playing a otal of 89 NCAA games and as a senior played 28 games: 14.8ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 81.4%. In the 2012-2013 season he turned professional and played for Fraport Skyliners Frankfurt II (Germany-ProB, starting five): 12 games: 16.8ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 19.0%, FT: 73.1%. Last season he played for KFUM Nassjo Basket (Sweden-Basketligan): 26 games: Score-2(22.2ppg), Reb-4(9.4rpg), 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 82.2%, left in Feb.’14, in Mar.’14 moved to Basic-Fit Brussels (Belgium-Ethias League, starting five): 11 games: 13.8ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 48.3%, FT: 90.0%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Taylor thanks for talking to German Hoops again. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

I’m in Atlanta Georgia. Summer has been fast but very gratifying at the end with the new team opportunity.

It seems like it was yesterday that you were playing with young Germans like Danilo Barthel and Konstantin Klein with Frankfurt. In the last 16 months has seen you go to Sweden and Belgium and now your headed to Turkey. Has time flown by for you and what kind of experience has it been for you? 

Yes time is flying by. It’s been a great experience I’ve had the chance to play for some good coaches and teams that needed me and some great teammates who I still keep up with via social media.

After playing in the German Pro B, you kept moving up the ladder and played in better leagues in Sweden and even better league in Belgium. You seemed to have no problems adjusting each time. What do you think was key each time for being able to respond on the court in a strong way?

The key is having confidence and once you have that you have to have the work ethic to back it up. Once you’ve done that its not much that can stop you. God has blessed me with some good seasons but the best are yet to come.

I was excited to see you play again this September as Basic-Fit Brussels will play the Fraport Skyliners in a test game, but now you have moved up another level to Turkey to play for Darussafaka Dogus Istanbul (Turkey-TBL). Please explain how this came about? How excited are you to be playing in another league better than your previous league in Belgium?

I’m very excited because I know how great this league is and how close the NBA eyes are in the league. One day I was praying to my little brother who passed for a better opportunity the next morning my agent contacted me saying the Turkish team was high on me and wanted me.

So far in your professional basketball career you have mastered every challenge that you have come across. How have you prepared yourself even better this summer to be ready for this challenge?

Thank you. I just stay focused and stay close with god and my family. You have to be at peace in your mind if you want to be successful, then go out and put the work in. My other brother is 14 and 6’3 we have been in the gym every day because I know he is up next!

You started the 2013-2014 season with Nassjo in Sweeden and tore up the league averaging 22.2ppg), Reb-4(9.4rpg), 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 82.2%. Your first 5 games were solid, but you then exploded with 28 and 40 points and from then on just dominated the league. How much more did you have to step up your game form the German Pro B to dominate even more in Sweden?

 I had to step up a lot. They are different levels, my confidence had to rise and once your teammates trust you and have confidence in you that gives you an extra boost. I was and am just focusing on helping my team, and setting myself and future up to its best abilities.

With Nassjo, you played together with American James Washington who also played in the German Pro B when you were with Frankfurt. He also had a very strong season with you. What do you cherish most on and off the court with him?

James and I are close, we are the same but totally different at the same time. I needed the balance during the season and some of his wisdom. We had many talks about Swedish league Belgium league and players all over the globe. He is a smart person.

After such a strong season in Sweden, you opted to finish the last few months with Brussels. How were you able to motivate yourself after such a strong season in Sweden? Did you realize there that you can play at any level in Europe? You had two 30 plus games.

Well I knew Sweden wasn’t enough for me to move up like I wanted to. I was very happy with my best year so far. But never satisfied. Yes I told you when I first met you I could play BBL and any level. That mindset has grown stronger with my good games in Belgium. I’m ready to do the same to TBL!

What do you remember from your 32 point game against Liege where you won the scoring game against Liege American Mike Smith?

It was a tough game, Mike and his team wouldn’t go away. I was hot from the 3 and felt like I couldn’t miss. It was a great game and an eye opener. Like I can do this at any level against any team!

Your teammate in the last few months was American Adam Hall who has 9 years on you. What could you take from his game and experience that helped you in your short time there?

I can take his preparation for practices and games. He was very meticulous and knew exactly what he needed for games and practice. Get into a comfortable routine is vital at this stage.

Your ex teammate Danilo Barthel played NBA Summer League this summer with the Miami Heat. Had you ever expected that he could go this route when you were practicing with him daily in Frankfurt?

 Yes I wasn’t surprised at all. I watched him Play a couple games.

His dunking may stand out, but his passing is very good and he can also shoot the ball. What did you take to heart most from the game of Barthel?

He is a very athletic player who has a high ceiling. We all said that in Germany. If he played college basketball in the states he would be on ESPN every night.!

In todays day and age where athleticism is so important, could you see Danilo Barthel reaching the NBA in the next years?

Yes I could he is still very young and has no where to go but up. All he has to do is work!

Where will the journey of the Atlanta Hawks end this season?

 I hope they make the playoff at least.!

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 Last movie was “the perfect stranger”

Thanks Taylor for the chat

• Diante Watkins is a 24 year old 174cm point guard that will be starting his third professional season and second in Germany with SC Rist Wedel. He started his basketball career with Daley CC (JUCO) He then moved to Robert Morris(NAIA) where he played his last two seasons of college ball. As a senior he played 27 games: 24.4ppg, 7.4apg, 3.0rpg, 2.1spg, FGP: 47.0%, 3Pts: 38.9%, FT: 82.7%. In 2012 he started his professional basketball career for the Chicago Redline (IBA-PBL): 2 games: 22.5ppg, 5.0apg, 3.5rpg, 3.5spg, FGP: 45.9%, FT: 77.8%. Last season he played for SC Rist Wedel (Germany-ProB, starting five): 30 games: 16.2ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 86.9%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball
• Thanks Diante for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

I’m fine miles my summer has been good, I’m currently back home in Chicago just working out and trying to get better for this upcoming season.

 

You had a very successful season for SC Rist Wedel where you reached the playoffs beating Leipzig, before bowing out to eventual Pro B champ Oldenburg. You had a very productive season playing 30 games: 16.2ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 86.9%. What were the main reasons for coming back?

 

My main reason for coming back was I tested the waters to see if I could get a higher league to give me a shot but nothing came up I had some interest according to my agent but no offers. I didn’t want to wait around too long knowing I had a great home in Wedel.

 

As is so often the case in the German Pro B, there is often a strong starting five, but it comes down to the bench how well a team will perform through 40 minutes. With Lee Jeka, Davey Hopkins and yourself, Wedel had very strong players. Did you sometimes put to much pressure on yourself to perform?

 

I believe I did put a lot of pressure on myself because I came off the bench, I wanted to show people I could really play because my minutes were limited. Also, I just wanted to impact the game the best way that I could so we could win.

 

What personal goals have you set for yourself for this season? In what areas of your game do you want to improve on this season?

My personal goals, I want to win the PRO B, we were so close last season and since I’m going back to Wedel I think the fans and my teammates who I played with last year deserve it. I also want to win the MVP of the league and show people I can play at the higher level. Right now I’ve been working back on my 3 point shot my % was down from my college seasons. And also just getting better in conditioning & sharpening up on my pick & roll game as well as my off ball defense.

 

 

What was your impression last season of talented German Janis Stielow? What impresses you most about his game?

I love Janis composure, he plays with a confidence you don’t see in young players. The way he studies the game and got better throughout the season was great. I love the way he makes big shots he made a lot for us last season.

 

You had many great games last season, but what remained your season highlight? Your buzzer beater or the 29 point 10 assist game in the playoffs against Leipzig?

I think the playoff game against Leipzig was my best game. It felt good I was making some real good plays and it came at a very important time, game 1 of a tough playoff series.

 

It is never easy to find a job coming out of the NAIA, but you and Billy Rush who also played at Robert Morris have made it to Europe. Rush like yourself comes from Illinois. Have you guys ever motivated each other to keep pushing? What kind of relationship do you have to him? Have you guys met?

Me and Billy have a good relationship when we see each other we tell each other to keep working and continue to grow as players. I know Billy we play in the same tournaments sometimes throughout the summer in Chicago. He’s a great guy and a really good basketball player

Your head coach at Robert Morris was Al Bruehl. How did he make you into a better basketball player in college that got you ready for the grind of being a professional?

Coach Al always told us whatever you think you’re doing it won’t be enough and it made you work harder. He understood his players, he allowed me to flourish in his system on top of pushing me in practice by playing against the best players on our roster. That helped me a lot.

 

How does a normal Diante Watkins work out day look like in the summer on and off the court?

I get up eat breakfast a bowl of maple wheat oatmeal, than at 8am I go run 1-2 miles at the track, than head to my workout with my trainer Brian Benjowich and my close friend who is played in 1st league Italy last season Aaron Johnson. Leave go get a smoothie and lunch. Maybe get a nap or go watch summer basketball. Then I go back to the gym at night to lift the weights get extra shots up and get in the pool

 

Will the Chicago Cubs ever win a World Series in our lifetime?

 

And lol I don’t think the Cubs will ever win a World Series again I’m from the SouthSide so I’m a white sox fan.

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Think Like A Man, very funny movie. Thanks again Miles for the interview I really appreciate you taking the time out to talk to me.

 

No problem and good luck this season.

 

 

 

Myles Hesson is a 24 year old 198cm forward that last season played in Germany for the LTi Giessen 46ers (ProA) playing  33 games: 16.1ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 78.8%. He started his basketball career in 2009 for the Birmingham Aces (EBL2, starting five): 13.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 2FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 60.0%. In the 2010-2011 season he played for Essex Pirates Basketball Club (BBL): 11 games: 9.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 68.4%. In the 2011-2012 season he played for Liverpool Mersey Tigers (BBL, starting five): 27 games: 15.1ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.the 3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 61.5%. In the 2012-2013 season he came to Germany playing for the Weissenhorn Youngstars (Germany-ProB, starting five): 20 games: 19.7ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg, 1.5bpg, 2FGP: 54.4%, 3FGP: 27.4%, FT: 65.6%, in Mar.’13 moved to Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany-BBL): 9 games: 4.2ppg, 2.8rpg. In the summer of 2013 he played at the European Championships in Slovenia -13: 5 games: 11.8ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 77.4%. He spoke to German Hoops before the start of the 2014 European qualifications as he gets set to play for England.

 

 

 

Myles thanks for talking to German Hoops again. Before going to national team were you able to enjoy some off time from basketball in early summer? What was your nicest experience you had the last months?

 

Yeah I went on holiday with my girlfriend to Mallorca, it was good to get away from everything for a while.

Last summer you made a name for your self having a very strong European campaign in Slovenia for Great Britain playing 5 games: 11.8ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 77.4%. How has the experience been this summer? With a year more of experience what expectations did you have coming in fighting for a spot again?

We have played some good opposition so far this summer and has prepared us well for our upcoming  European qualification games. I know what to expect this time round, so I have a good idea of what I need to do to help the team.

Great Britain recently placed third at a tournament in Tbilisi. You lost to Belarus, but defeated Moldavia. What kind of experience was this for you at the team and is the club ready for the European qualifications?

It was good to go over there and play 3 teams with differing styles of play. We learned a lot about ourselves and what we need to do as a team to win our qualification games.

Great Britain is without big names like Luo Deng and Joel Freeland. Do you see yourself having to step up even more than last season?

It was the same for us last year without those guys. I just do my best to help the team succeed.

Do you feel a lot of pressure having a good qualifying tournament or is it something that you can adjust to as even with very good role players with Giessen with TJ Dileo and Steven Bennett, you often had to step up in the playoffs or the team would most likely have lost.

I just take every game as they come, the pressure to win and play well is always the same for me. The result at the end of the game is all that counts.

Going into the Euro qualifying, what part of your game has most improved in the last year with your season in Giessen under ex German national player and now coach Denis Wucherer?

I feel my ball handling and my 3 point shooting have improved since last summer so hopefully I can continue to improve on those aspects.

Great Britain skipper Drew Sullivan has lauded you this summer and has trust that you can fill the shoes of Luo Deng. How has he helped you on the court most this summer with his words of wisdom?

His belief in me as a player is really good for my confidence. Coming from someone as experienced as him it means a lot

How important has a player like Gareth Murray been for you? He is an allrounder, but also gives strength inside with his play. Are you able to take something form his inside game to help your game?

Murray has been really solid for us so far this summer, his perimeter shooting is something I look up to in his game.

A big talent on the team is Devon Van Oostrum. You played with him last summer and this summer. He has played in Spain the last years.You and him could be teammates for many years to come on the national team, Where do you see the journey of this kid going?

Yeah Devon is an exciting player to watch and play with and I hope makes it to the NBA one day, there’s a lot of young European talent getting drafted in recent years so I dont see why he couldn’t if he continues improving

Devon Van Oostrum, is the kid with the English first name and Dutch last name. Do you ever kid him about his name or does he have to put up with other teammates? Lol

Nah I dont joke about that haha

Great Britain will be playing a game in Iceland. Even though you will be highly concentrated to win the game, are you able to still be able to enjoy the experience of being in an exotic place at least for a short while?

I hope so maybe after the game I will be able to see some of the sites but its business first.

Last season you could of played Beko BBL, but opted to gain some more experience playing in the German Pro A. This season, you might not play in Germany, but in another country with a good league. Are you as surprised as I am that a Beko BBL team didn´t believe as much in your abilities?

I  still havent signed yet so theres still a chance I could play in Germany again hopefully, I will just have to see what interest there is after the qualifications are over

After playing two seasons in Germany, could you feel a touch of happiness for Germany winning the 2014 World Cup? Did you follow the tournament a bit?

Yeah in fact as soon as England were out, they were who I was rooting for. I watched quite a few matches, it was a great tournament.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I just watched guardians of the galaxy, I recommend it.

 

Thanks Myles for the chat

 

Ricky Taylor is a 25 year old 195cm guard from Brownsville, Tennessee that will be starting his second professional season for  Newcastle Eagles Esh Group (United Kingdom-BBL). Last season as a rookie he played for the Finke Baskets Paderborn (Germany-ProA) playing  30 games: 11.7ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 84.9%. He started his basketball career in 2008 for Chattanooga (NCAA) where he played until 2012 playing a total of 114 NCAA games and as a senior he played 31 games: 11.9ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 78.2%. He spoke to German Hoops about his rookie season in Germany and his next challenge in England.

 

 

Thanks for talking to German Hoops again. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

It’s my pleasure to speak with eurobasket.com again and at this current moment, I just signed with the Newcastle Eagles in England in the BBL. I’m blessed to be a part of the most successful team in the “HISTORY” of the BBL!

Recently you spent some time in New York. What seems to fascinate you most about the big apple?

New York was definitely mind blowing for me and an experience that I’ll never forget. I had the opportunity to see the World Trade Center. the Statue of Liberty, and Madison Square Garden. I can go all day and list what I’ve seen, but just know that I have seen a lot haha. I’m from a small town, Brownsville, TN where the population is not high so when I arrived in New York, it’s like a different world to see so many people in one place at one time. I love the fast pace that they have. No, I don’t think I would want to live in that environment every day, but it is good to see every once in a while.

You recently finished your rookie season in Paderborn with the Finke Baskets. The club didn´t reach the playoffs. Paderborn was very up and down last season. Was it more the fact that you weren´t able to find a consistent rhythm throughout the season or the vast competition level that the German Pro A possessed last season?

Paderborn has a great program, and they are definitely headed in the right direction. We were inconsistent throughout the season because I believe of our lack of experience. There were about 5 games I know for sure that we should have won for just being more experienced players. The competition in the Pro A is definitely competitive, nonetheless, at the end of the day, everybody is a professional player. It came down to the small things—getting that defensive rebound, executing the play that we were supposed to run, and not taking breaks defensively. It were the small things that we needed to make happen to become more consistent.

You played 30 games averaging 11.7ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 84.9%. How content were you with your rookie season in Germany?

I was pleased and disappointed with my rookie season all at the same time. I was pleased because with the minutes that I played, I was productive and efficient. I was really disappointed because I know that I can be more productive. I only had about 3-4 weeks to prepare for a long, professional season. I accepted a coaching job at Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga, TN and I was working out here and there but I wasn’t working out to prepare for a pro season. Therefore, I lacked a lot of explosion and power and there were certain angles and moves that I couldn’t make due to my lack of strength and explosion. I now have been working out for 2 1/2 months and this should be a better year!

You shot 38% which was higher than your last three seasons at Chattanooga (NCAA). Is this something that pleased you also going into summer vacation?

Yes! I was definitely satisfied with my shooting percentage from the 3 for my rookie season in Germany. By being a pro, we have shooting practice early in the morning and this definitely helped my shooting. I learned how to be patient and how to take the best shot possible. Hopefully, I can eventually get that percentage up into the 40s soon.

What was your season highlight? You had some strong games like in the wins against Kirchheim and Leverkusen.

My season highlight was against Leverkusen. In that game, I showcased my complete game by making 3 point shots, scoring in the mid-range area, and finishing at the rim. Leverkusen had beat us pretty bad in preseason, so we all had to send a message back to them.

Your ex teammate Will Barnes will play for new German Pro A team Hamburg Towers. You both were rookies last season. How did he make you better and how did you make him better?

Will Barnes is the man! I learned so much from him my rookie season. Watching him play in practice and in games was definitely an ESPN highlight for me every day haha. I love his work ethic and his willingness to work on his game the whole season. I learned from him some effective moves that can increase my overall play. He is so good, but what I really respect about him is that he is humble.

Early in the preseason, we guarded each other a lot during practice so we kind of went at each other back and forth so I hope that I challenged him in practice to make him a better player.

You got to practice with one of Germanys biggest talents from the year 1997 with Niklas Kiel. What impressed you most by his game and where do you see his journey going in the basketball world?

Niklas is going to be an awesome basketball player. I thought he was a grown man when I first saw him play and then I discovered that he was a teenager haha. He will definitely make a whole lot of money one day haha.

How was the summer transfer experience for you? You had solid stats, but opted to go to play in England. Did you have other offers as well?

I had interest from other countries, but I feel that England is the best option for me at this point. I think that it was the best decision that I made so it was a smooth transition for me.

You will lace up your sneakers this season for the Newcastle Eagles Esh Group (United Kingdom-BBL). How thrilled are you to be playing in England?

I have a different mindset this year. I now have experience and I know what to expect from other teams. I now have more confidence and I’ll be a step ahead for my second year. I am acting like a little kid right now by being a part of Newcastle. I just feel that the organization including coaches and players want to WIN!

Did your new head coach Fabulous Flournoy describe how FABULOUS it will be to come and play for Newcastle? What were the main reasons for joining this team?

We talked for almost an hour prior to me signing. I loved everything that he had to say because we think just alike when it comes to basketball. He was on point and honest about everything he and the club had to offer. I can tell that he is a “FABULOUS” coach all by his conversation. I joined this team because of their winning tradition. Newcastle has a phenomenal coach. They are in the BBL, and I sense that they want to win every championship!

Often players will stay in Germany for some seasons before going to another country just because everything works so well in Germany on and off the court. What will you miss most from the country Germany?

I will miss probably the food in Germany haha. I can’t really compare until I complete the season in England.

After seeing the brutal injury to Paul George, does one as a player think a bit more about his moves on the court the day after seeing something horrible like that?

I am definitely in prayer for Paul George. I don’t think players will think too much about their moves because we have been playing almost our whole lives. PG was simply in an unfortunate situation.

How does a summer work out day look like for Ricky Taylor on and off the court in 2014?

In the morning time, I go to UTC and get up a lot of shots. I eat and I may have some basketball clients in between and then I train with my strength and conditioning coach, Ryan Marsh, who is whooping my butt in the weight room. I’m definitely accomplishing goals with him. I am now taking YOGA classes, and once I’m done with YOGA, I go back to the gym and work on game situation moves (moves on the move, floaters, etc).

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD movie that I saw was…hmmm…it’s been a while. It was probably “Love & Basketball.”

 

Thanks Ricky for the chat!!!Good luck with Newcastle in the BBL!!.

 

 

 

 

 

Jermelle Fraser is a 26 year old 186cm guard from New York that has the American and Antiguan citzenships. He started his basketball career with  SUNY Maritime (NCAA3) in 2007. As a professional player he has played for teams like  NYC Thunder (ABA), Jersey G-force (IBL) and the Westchester Dutchmen (EBA). Last season he got his first taste of European basketball playing for KB Drita Gjilan (Kosovo-SuperLeague, starting five): 1 game: 12pts, 2reb, 1ast, 2steals; Kosova SuperLeague: 7games, 18.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 3.9 apg, 1.6spg, FT – 80.2%, 3FG – 28.7 %, 2FG – 48.6 %. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

Thanks Jermelle for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

 

Thank you Miles for your time. Right now I am home in NYC and my summer has been good so far.

 

Last season we did an interview and you got signed soon after. Hopefully this time you will have as much luck getting signed. How has your off season team search been going?

 

The search has been a little rough but much better than before because now I have a little experience. I am gaining interests from some clubs, so hopefully I will begin to get some offers. Wherever I sign, I know it will not be such a high level so I plan on dominating and leading my team in good standing for a full season ! I also still have my 2nd passport which helps in countries like Spain and Denmark etc as a ” Cotonou player”

 

Last season you got signed by KB Drita Gjilan (Kosovo-SuperLeague), but your stay was short because the team didn´t pay you. Please explain your Kosovo experience?

Yes like many countries there can be some financial problems throughout the season. Looking back, Kosovo was just a start for me to see if I could really compete in Europe. I really enjoyed my teammates and the people. We didn’t practice as much because guys had school or work so I had put in some extra training on my own. But I don’t regret going there because in the end, I had to start somewhere.

 

There were other guys on the team from the States and Canada. Did they also have problems getting paid? What have you learned from this experience that will help you on future decisions?

I think everyone last season in Europe, not just Kosovo, had problems getting paid. Even in the higher level leagues in Europe you hear it all the time about guys not getting all of their money. So as players we must still try to be professional and handle the situation as best as we can until things get better. I think having a good agent also helps.

 

You played  7games averaging 18.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 3.9 apg, 1.6spg, FT – 80.2%, 3FG – 28.7 %, 2FG – 48.6 %. You seemed to be getting into a nice little rhythm in the Superleague in Kosovo. What did you get used to on the court quickly and what took longer to get used to in your short time there?

Yes I was just getting started in those 7 games ! I had already been studying the European game as best I could without any experience, so that helped. The competition was decent nothing crazy at all, so I adjusted just fine. What took longer was learning to defend the pick and roll and finding my shot within the offensive sets.

 

In Kosovo everyone called you by the name “Speedy” .. How did that come about ?

Speedy was a nickname given to me by my friends since I was about 10 years old after the cartoon character “Speedy Gonzalez”. Growing up I was really small and could never get rebounds. I would play basketball outside for hours using my speed and quickness without getting tired trying to steal the ball and drive to the basket before getting blocked lol. Until this day everyone in my neighborhood calls me Speedy, no one calls me by my real name there are some who for years never knew my real name. In Drita they saw that I responded to the name Speedy and not Jermelle so they stuck with it plus it was short and easy for them to pronounce.

 

 

 

Despite your hard ships in Kosovo was there anything positive that you could take from this short experience?

It taught me how to really be a professional and to have patience on and off the court. The people were nice and although their English was not so good they still welcomed me with open arms and showed respect. The fans there were very passionate at times for their home team which made the games really good and competitive!

 

 

You have been training very hard this summer. I have seen some videos where you slalom around chairs. If you could have one defender to stand in for the chair that would push you most who would you want to have defending you?

 

Haha I don’t know. I love to compete and welcome challenges, so probably any guard who is considered a lock-down defender !

If you could sell yourself in a few sentences as to why any professional team should snap at your services how would you describe your play now?

I’m a very hardworker. There are not many NCAA 3 pros in Europe so the few of us that do make it usually have that toughness and strong work ethic. But as far as my game, I’m a natural point guard with a lot of upside. I handle the ball well and I excel at finding my teammates. With my speed and quickness I can get to the basket easily and my shot from deep is finally coming along. My perimeter defense is solid and I often crash boards to help with rebounding. My work ethic and desire to get better is extremely high.

 

 

How does a normal 2014 summer work out day look like for Jermelle Fraser on and off the court?

This summer I have been focusing a lot on my 3pt shot and athleticism. I think those two things will allow me to move to higher divisions which is what I plan to do.

 

Where will the journey of the New York Knicks end next season?

 

They will make the playoffs!

 

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

House Party.

 

Thanks Jermelle for the chat.

 

 

 

John Eggleston is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Indiana that will be playing his fourth professional season and fourth in Germany and first with the MLP Academics Heidelberg. He played his first three seasons with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen helping the team move up to the German Pro A in 2013. Last season in the 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 started his basketball career in 2007 at  Pennsylvania (NCAA) and as a senior played  28 games: 13.2ppg, 8.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 45.1%, FT: 73.5%. He was able to improve his points and rebounds each season in college. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

Jack thanks for talking to German Hoops. You have been busy keeping in shape, were in Las Vegas playing basketball, but were you able to find some time this summer to get away and go somewhere and not have to think about basketball for a moment?

Yes I always make it a point to get away and try to get my mind off of basketball for a while. As much as I love the game, it’s easy to get burned out if I don’t take a little time to focus on other things.

 

You played three seasons with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen that are known as being a close knit basketball family. Was it difficult leaving after three seasons?

It was very difficult to leave Leverkusen, but I think it is the right move for me. I really appreciate everything the coaches, GM, fans, and especially my teammates did for me in my time there. Leverkusen will always have a special place in my heart.

 

You had  a very extraordinary season in your first Pro A season averaging 16.3ppg, Reb-3(9.0rpg), 3.9apg. Did your injury and not making the playoffs put a little damper on your third professional season?

Last season was a pretty tough year. The injury was obviously miserable because I felt like I was letting my teammates down. Our struggles as a team were very frustrating as well.

 

There weren´t many Leverksuen season highlights last season, but if you had to choose one which would it be? Possibly your double double effort in the 84-83 victory against your new team MLP Academics?

That first game at home against Heidelberg was a special win for us. Goetz Twiehoff made an incredible play to get the victory on a last second shot. I’d say another highlight was winning on the road at Karlsruhe to secure our place in the Pro A for another year.

 

When you look back at your three seasons in Leverkusen would you say that your most special teammate was Josh Parker? What game will you always remember most about him and what is your impression of him going to play in the second division of Turkey?

Josh was probably the most talented player I played with in my three years there, but there were a lot of special teammates. I still keep in touch with some of the guys and wish them the best going forward. I’m excited to see how Josh will do in the next step of his journey in Turkey.

 

You played under Achim Kuzmann for three years. If you had to pick an aspect of your game where you have improved the most under his guidance what would you take?

I’d say Coach Kuczmann helped me most with my decision making. He is a very good coach who has been a presence in German basketball for over 40 years now. I have nothing but respect for him.

 

After a very strong Pro A season you are moving to another Pro A team with the MLP Academics Heidelberg? What were the main reasons for heading south? Didn´t some Beko BBL teams or other countries inquire about your services?

I had some interest from other countries, but I felt like Heidelberg was the best option for me going forward. They are a well run team who is in position to be successful this season. I hope to help them achieve that success.

 

In Leverkusen, you were the main force inside, but with Heidelberg you will be playing with American Chris Gadley. How excited are you to be having a force under the basket to take some of the dirty work from you?

 

I’m very excited to play with Chris. If he is fully recovered from his injury, I think he and I can make a formidable front line in the Pro A.

At Penn you improved your points and rebounds per season average each season and also continued it in your first two professional seasons in Leverkusen. Another interesting stat is that at Penn, your free throw percentage went down each season, but as a professional your free throw percentage has risen each season. Is free throw shooting for you more about repetition and practice then it is about mind and game situations? How do you explain this decrease and rise in your basketball career from the free throw line?

It’s funny that you point that out, Miles, because my free throw percentage has been a source of frustration for me the past few years. I think I am very capable of shooting over 80% from the line, but I sometimes let my head get in the way. I hope to continue my improvement in that department this season.

 

 

When looking back at the last three summers, how has your off season work out program developed? Do you see yourself doing more or changing routines? How does a 2014 summer work out day look like for Jack Eggleston?

 

My first two summers out of college I worked normal 9-5 office jobs, which limited my training. I decided that if I was serious about reaching my full potential I needed to focus on basketball in the summer. So the last two summers I have been in San Diego training full time. I usually am on the court 5-6 days a week and lift three times a week. My focus has become more and more on staying healthy and getting my body to the point where it can endure a long season.

 

Where will the journey of the Clevland Cavaliars end this season with Lebron James and co?

That’s a tough question to answer right now because we don’t know for sure if they are done making changes to their roster. I see them being a contender in the East and threatening to make a push for the Finals.

 

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last movie I watched was Enough Said.

Thanks Jack for the chat. All the best with Heidelberg.

Eric Kibi is a 23 year old 198cm forward from Ottawa, Canada that will play for BBC Rendsburg this season. He started his basketball career in 2008 with  Jacksonville College (NJCAA) where he played until 2010. Then he moved to  UALR (NCAA) where he played his junior season playing 29 games and averaging  4.4ppg, 4.2rpg. In the 2011-2012 season he was a senior and played for bil.Christian (NCAA2) playing 20 games and averaging  8.2ppg, 5.7rpg, FGP: 60.0%. In the 2012-2013 he turned professional and came to Germany and played for BG Halstenbek/Pinneberg (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 20 games and averaging 19.9ppg, 9.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.2%, 3Pts: 20.0%, FT: 54.3%. Last season he played for the Ottawa SkyHawks (NBL Canada) playing 29 games and averaging 4.4ppg, 4.7rpg. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

Hi Eric, thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how have you been enjoying your summer?

 

Thanks for having me, at the moment I’m in the Toronto area training with my trainer Kyle Julius of A-Game hoops and playing in a lot of Pro Ams in the Toronto area with NBA guys and other Pros. As far as my summer it’s Been good, a little stressful finding a team but still got to enjoy my family time and a lot of traveling.

Two seasons ago as a rookie you played at BG Halstenbek/Pinneberg (Germany-Regionalliga) and last season seemed to make a step forward playing with the Ottawa SkyHawks (NBL Canada). You recently were signed again by a German team called BBC Rendsburg that moved up from Regio 2. What were the main reasons for going back to Germany?

Personally I dream of playing in some of the bigger leagues in Europe so I feel that being in Germany gives me the best chance of moving up through the ranks, while at the same time being right there in front of all the German and European coaches to watch me in person instead of on film. The NBL gives Canadians a great opportunity to play professionally at home against top talent but for me at this point in my career I felt that going back to Europe was the best for me. The NBL can always be an option down the road obviously.

How do you rate your decision? You played in German Regionaliga and in the NBL Canada. How would you compare the two leagues skill wise? I would imagine that the skill level is high in the Canadian league as there are many players from Europe and guys winding down their careers that have played at a high level.

I’m very happy with my decision. Me and my agent had a great relationship with coach Bjarne at Rendsburg and I think we all had the same vision for the team and for my career which is something I was really looking for. As far as skill level in my opinion I feel that for whatever reason the NBL Canada is very underrated. There is a lot of top level talent in the league, a lot of guys from the league have signed overseas in recent weeks so that shows that the league is making great progress. There is a lot of top level talent in Germany as well but the talent is more structured into a team concept.

You will be the go to guy in Rendsburg. Do you sense added pressure not only to help your team win games, but to match or better your stats from your rookie season at Pinneberg?

No not really, I don’t feel pressure at all. I feel that you only feel pressure when your not prepared for the task at hand which isn’t the case for me at all. I’ve had one of my best summers as far as training and taking care of my body since turning pro and I’m ready for the task at hand. I’ve put in a lot of hours into my craft this summer and it’s got me to a point where my confidence is soaring so I expect to perform even better than two years ago and lead my team to as many wins as possible and hopefully a promotion. I’m excited to prove that I can be a go to guy and impact the game with more than just scoring.

How was the whole experience playing in Canada with Ottawa? You played 29 games: 4.4ppg, 4.7rpg. There was a span of six games where you averaged 31 minutes a game. Why did you have such a whirlwind season?

 The season was really up and Down for me, started off really slow then it picked up around late November when I finally got an opportunity to show what I could do, which is why I feel my stats don’t really speak for my season. However It was a difficult situation at the beginning of the season to be stuck on the bench because as a competitor you want to be able contribute and help your teammates, especially in my hometown but everything happens for a reason. When I got my chance during that six game span I took advantage of my opportunity and had some of the best games I’ve ever played in my career. Overall I feel that last years situation made me hungrier.

American Tirrel Baines who also plays your position was in the starting lineup in that six game phase. Was the competition in the long run very big that season?

Our practices were some of the most intense practices I’ve ever been a part of with Former and current BBL guys like Justin Tubbs, Ryan Anderson, Mike Rose just to name a few. Every guy was getting after it trying to prove themselves. Very physical and high intensity so every day you had to bring it, especially at my position because we had two or three other high level guys there. At the end of the day even with Tirrell we pushed each other but off the court those are all my big brothers until this day, I learned so much from those guys and I’ll forever be grateful for that.

As you came in November 2013 as did ex NBA player Jaren Jackson who became your head coach. How intense was this time learning from a former NBA champion?

For me personally coach Jackson was the best thing that could of happened for me. For whatever reason with the previous coach I wasn’t given a chance. Coach Jackson really brought that professionalism in a Coach Popovich kind of way to our team as far as preparation and mentality. As far as on the court as long as we defended he gave us freedom on offense to showcase our talents. The thing I’ll remember the most about what coach Jackson reiterated is the importance of seizing every opportunity because it may never come again, whether that is a rep in practice, a two minute span in a game or even a mental rep in the film room.

Jaren won NBA championships in the late 90s with the San Antonio Spurs. Did he have any Tim Duncan or Tony Parker stories where you could gain some inspiration in the hard working category?

He definitely had a daily Duncan, Parker or even David Robinson story, mostly regarding their work ethic and professionalism. He also had many stories about being matched up with Michael Jordan and actually showed us footage on the bus of him and Jordan going at it which was great to see. It really validates his credibility and makes you want to really learn from a coach like that because he’s played at the level where we all aspire to play at.

As a rookie you played in Germany for BG Halstenbek/Pinneberg (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 20 games: 19.9ppg, 9.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.2%, 3Pts: 20.0%, FT: 54.3%. You were a rookie but played with many very young kids. What was your overall impression of the German players developing at the Regionaliga level?

I think the German system is really great for the young players in Germany. A lot of the guys are double license guys which means they get to play in a professional environment and also play against their own age group in the NBBL. In my opinion that opportunity is great for their development it’s a great structure.

Your teammate was big German talent Janis Stielow who is a German U-20 player and has made the next level and will play for the Hamburg Towers. What did you enjoy most about his game?

What I like about Janis is he was a no non sense guy even at a young age I really admired how he approached every game and every practice. He really wanted to get better every practice. He always asked me questions which was great. I am happy to see him doing so well he deserves it, I hope to be facing him in the near future.

You played at three schools before turning professional. Did you at times feel like a basketball nomad with all the traveling and moving from school to school? Do you think you might have benefited from seeing different styles and levels more than if you had played at one school?

For me personally my first two years at Jacksonville college were great. I got to play in one of the best junior college leagues in America and face High level division 1 talent every night. I was a double double guy both seasons And managed to be an all conference player both years, as well as being selected to the all American camp so I would say I held my own. This fed into my hunger for the next levels because at the junior college level you really have to work hard if you want to earn that division 1 scholarship so it’s definitely a grind. I had some great moments at the next level but ultimately I didn’t have as much success as I would of wanted to at the NCAA level but that’s not because I wasn’t given opportunities for some reason things didn’t always click but at the same time I had great coaches and teammates I was able to learn from. Also had the opportunity to play in the 2011 NCAA tournament in which was a once in a lifetime experience that I’ll never forget. My last two years were a bit difficult for me so for me to still be playing professionally is a blessing from God.

You played a year of NCAA ball with UALR (NCAA) playing 29 games: 4.4ppg, 4.2rpg. coming from Jacksonville College (NJCAA) to the NCAA must have been like day and night. What was your wake up call to being in the NCAA where you really noticed that you had reached the NBA of the college basketball world?

In all honesty Jacksonville got me well prepared for the skill level ,to me it was more the attention to details by the other teams that was day and night. Scouting reports were so sharp that your opponent knew every single tendency you had which was something that was difficult to adjust to. At the same time the limelight was very different, what I mean by that was now we were on TV every game and my parents were able to enjoy more of my games or even criticize

The scouting report on you is extensive as being super athletic position 3 player who has great face up game and can handle the ball in the perimeter to produce with his midrange game, using pull up shot, or strong drives to the basket. He has excellent inside back to the basket game, can use strength to back down players for his drop step move or hook shot consistently. In transition offence or fast breaks, possess great speed, quickness to score in open floor. Strong with the ball and drives to the basket can finish with contact and dunk. Great individual defender in the perimeter and also uses strength comfortably to defend bigger players inside. Has excellent nose for defensive and offensive rebounding, catches the ball on the highest point. Now having said so much what in your opinion is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

I think that I can handle the ball and shoot it a bit better than I’m given credit for. I think aggressiveness, rebounding and athleticism has always been a big part of my game so sometimes I don’t get to show the other aspects of my games as much as I’d like to. That is no ones fault either that’s on me to show those aspects of my game, which I plan on doing more of this upcoming season.

It seems like Canadian basketball continues to grow. More and more players are playing in the NCAA as well as coming to Europe. In the last two years there also has been an influx of Canadians coming to Germany to play. How have you seen the development of Candian basketball in the last 5 years? Do you think one day the whole Canadian national team could be filled with NBA players?

Over the past five years the rise of Canadian basketball has been crazy. I compare it kind of to the baby boomers, this is really the golden generation of Canadian basketball. A lot of guys like myself have benefited from the rise with the added exposure whether it is at the NCAA level or pro level. A lot of people will talk about the Andrew Wiggins, Anthony Bennett or Tristan Thompson, but I feel there is more to that in Canadian basketball. A lot of guys are making a lot of noise in Europe particularly in Germany like you mentioned as well as in our Canadian basketball league so the growth of basketball in our country has been tremendous. Hopefully this will lead to a successful national team full of NBA players and successful overseas guys in the near future.

How does a normal summer work out day look like for Eric KIbi in the summer of 2014?

Ill wake up around 7 eat a good breakfast then make my way to the gym for a first workout at 8 which will be a lot of individual stuff, ball handling, shooting, conditioning. I’ll grab lunch then Come back around 2 to get a lift in the weight room and swim at the pool. Then In the evening depending on the day either play some pick up or return for the second basketball workout in which is always a little more intense.

You played in Pinneberg as a rookie and will play in Rendsburg this season. Both locations aren´t far away from Hamburg. Where do enjoy going the most in Hamburg? Let me guess the Reeperbahn?

Yes, I really like the Reeperbahn for sure it is such a diverse place there’s so much to do there. I love Doner, so the Reeperbahn is for sure where I found the best one. Also in Hamburg I went to a few German Bundesliga soccer matches of Hamburg SV so I look forward to doing that once again.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Well actually I’m watching a lot of netflix in my downtime so right now I’m addicted to a show called Suits.

 

Thanks Eric for the chat.

 

 

 

Ty Nurse is a 24 year old 185cm point guard from Vancouver, Canada that will commence on his professional basketball career this season in Germany with the Pro A team Finke Baskets Paderborn. He played at Midland CC (JUCO) from 2009 until 2011. He then transferd to Texas Tech (NCAA) where he played from 2011-2013. He didn´t play last season, but kept in shape waiting for a chance and now has received it from the Finke Baskets. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

Ty thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how have you been enjoying your summer?

 

Thanks for having me. I’m in Vancouver right now, it’s good Vancouver always really nice in summer time but at the same time I’ve had a business approach so just been working hard.

The basketball God has been very good to Josh Bone who graduated in 2012 from Tennessee and a few days ago found a job in Germany and you had finished at Texas Tech and you also have found a team with Paderborn. How blessed do you feel at the moment?

I feel very humbled and fortunate for the opportunity but at the same time I always look at the glass half empty and want more.

How tough was it in the last year just going about your daily routine, looking looking and looking for a team and not finding one? Did you ever doubt yourself? Besides family and close friends was there any particular person that really helped you get through this phase?

It was very tough, a lot of sleepless nights, but it only made me stronger, didn’t feel sorry for myself, I weathered the storm and now feel that if I can make it through that especially with what I had to deal with the year before as well I can make it through anything. I confidently believe in myself and my heart feels stronger than ever. I was disciplined and stuck to the script day in day out on court workouts, hills, weights. I have a close group if friends who were definitely there for me and just had my back. They helped get my mind off basketball when necessary.

What really sold you on the club Finke Baskets Paderborn? Did you talk to head coach Uli Nachster? What was your first impression of him?

Seemed like a great situation, first year head coach so he has a chip on his shoulder to prove something I’m a rookie that nobody wanted so I got a chip on my shoulder too. He likes my style and wants me to just do what I do and that’s be a floor general. My first impression of him, I just thought he was meticulous, because a lot of teams didn’t think I could play but he looked at game tape and saw I would fit in well, didn’t look at one bad year and was open minded unlike a lot of coaches, the proof is in the pudding and I’m just happy to be here, and to play for Uli Nachster.

With the Vancouver Grizzlies organization having folded a long time ago there, Vancouver had its hockey and Canucks as number one sport again. What was it like growing up in a hockey town? How did you come to playing basketball?

Hockey is huge out here, I’m forced through watching sports highlights on TV to be familiar with many hockey players and how the season is going for certain teams, however basketball is growing rapidly and players in Canada are starting to flood in college basketball in America and starting to break through into NBA as well. Soon the Canada national team will be made up of only NBA players. I started when I was 4. Went to a local basketball  camp at a community center that was run by Mel Davis a former Harlem Globetrotter and just have been playing ever since

Before going to Texas Tech, you played at Midland CC (JUCO). There you had solid stats and led the team to a 31-4 record and to the NJCAA final. How important had head coach Ross Hodge been in your two year development which helped you make the step to Texas Tech?

Ross Hodge was a very hungry coach and he ran our practices like a top US college, he recruited very good players to that junior college so we had very competitive practices which made us all better every day and still to this day have a good relationship with him nothing but respect for him.

As a junior at Texas Tech, you played 30 games averaging 8.9ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 90.2%. You obviously were able to make the jump from JUCO to the NCAA. But when you look back on your junior year, what was your wake up call to the NCAA where you realized ok now I am actually playing at the best college level.

Watching Thomas Robinson warm up, or watching scouting film on Royce White, having to guard Tyshawn Taylor, every night in big time atmospheres there are pro’s on the court

You are a very good  free throw shooter and connected on 55 of 61 attempts in your junior year. You weren´t listed at the top at 90% because you didn´t have the needed 2,5 attempts per game. Was this the stat that you were most proud of as a junior?

Just mostly proud of getting the experience of starting and playing 30+mins in the big 12 it was big for my development

You scored in double figures 13 times as a junior and also had seven assists against Oklahoma. What do you remember most from this solid game against Oklahoma?

Everyone was playing well, we just put a complete game together.

As a junior you had Billy Gillipse as head coach. But as a senior he had left and prompt your minutes fell. How difficult was your senior year and do you think it was a reason for you having difficultly finding a professional team in the 2013-2014 campaign?

It was very difficult, overwhelming, not just the minutes but how it was done but it’s ok I have moved on and the future is looking bright. Yes that is a big reason.

You played at the FIBA Americas U18 Championships in Formosa (Argentina) in 2008 playing 5 games: 4.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.4apg, 1.4spg. What memories do you have from this experience?

Argentina was amazing. Seeing Juan Fernandez win over America in front of their passionate fans was just cool to see, it was one of my first international experiences. This was all new to me I was observing all the different styles / flavors of all the South American countries just really cool to see. And We (Canada) brought home a bronze medal so it was a good trip. But getting to see Argentina as well was amazing it’s a great place and whenever you can put your country on your chest it’s amazing

How does a normal summer work out day look like for you in 2014 on and off the court?

It’s hard to find gyms during the day sometimes in Vancouver they become full so I wake up around 5am five days a week, doing an early morning court workout. Then sometimes I will do a second court workout. Then I always mix in running hills and weights depending on how body feels and how many court workouts I did that day.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Blackfish documentary on netflix.

Thanks Ty fort the chat