Dane Watts is a 26 year old 203cm forward from Warrensburg, Missouri. He will be  playing his season season for ratiopharm Ulm.  Last season for ratiopharm Ulm, he played  38 games averaging 9.6ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 24.6%, FT: 58.1%He played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2004-2008 with NBA player Anthony Tolliver. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3Pts: 42.5%, FT: 71.8%. In 2008, he came to Germany and started his professional basketball career with EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 32 games: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1(68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7%. In 2009-2010, he came to The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. In 2010-2011 for Tuebingen, he played 33 games: 13.7ppg, Reb-4(7.6rpg), 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 54.5%; in May’11 moved to Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket (France-ProA): 3 games: 7.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg.  At Creighton, he won awards such as MVC Tournament Winner -05, 07, MVC All-Freshman Team -05, MVC Regular Season Runner-Up -07, and MVC Tournament Semifinals -08. He spoke to German Hoops about his summer and future of ratiopharm Ulm

ratiopharm Ulm had a very long season carrying through until mid June. With your old Beko BBL teams, you had had been back in the States by May. How fast did the summer go and how quickly will your son have a basketball in his hands? lol

This summer has flown bye. It is a tough trade-off for the family waiting in the states, the more successful my team is, the less time we get to spend with them. Ezekiel already has a ball, trying to get him to palm it with his left already.

You will be starting your fifth professional season with ratiopharm Ulm. As you slowly get older does anything change in your off season workout plan in comparison to when you were a rookie?

I continue to work on multiple areas of my game and conditioning. Getting older is not an issue for me right now as much as managing my time to raise my son and continue to put the work in the summers to get better. Daddy daycare was open from 9-1 this summer while my wife finishes up her schooling.

When you look at the Beko BBL offseason transactions, how satisfyed are you with the new players that have arrived in the league? What players are you looking forward to playing against?

I feel like the league continues to get stronger, the clubs are professional and the games are a high level product for the fans, I am happy to be a part for another season. Im looking forward to seeing Bonn’s new guys, Kyle Weems played in the MVC and Pat Ewing Jr. is a part of Active Faith sports brand I am involved in.

After the incredible last season in Ulm, how difficult will this season be for the team? The Beko BBL is always getting more competitive and teams will be gunning for ratiopharm Ulm.

I am glad that we were able to bring back the majority of our team and keep some continuity from last season. We know that we are not going to surprise any teams this season, they will be ready for us.

The team kept a majority of the team and added some important components to the team. What is the season goal for the team?

We will establish the season’s goals when we meet next week with all the players. I know that we will add new goals for the European competition. With all the success we had last year, I know that no one on that team was satisfied we got the silver medal.

The team has gotten German national player Philipp Schwethelm on loan from Bayern Munich. What do you like most about his game?

He did not have much of a role with Bayern last year but we have seen him be an impact player in this league previous years. I think that he will be a big help for our team with his shooting, passing and basketball IQ.

How excited are you to be playing with Allan Roy? You will be playing with an ex Boston Celtic. What will be his best quality?

I remember him playing at Villanova when I was in school. He was a great scorer and player for them. Im sure that he will fit in with our team and bring a lot of high level experience.

Each player on ratiopharm Ulm had their special role last season. There were no egos mostly and everyone did their job. You were consistent. Would you like anything to change in your role this season?

That was a big key to our success, everyone putting winning first. That is something that the new additions must commit to as well for us to continue building on last year. I want to continue to help our team win, whatever that means I can do. Consistency is something that I want to continue to bring, knowing the team can rely on me every game.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg have lost key parts to their winning team while Bayern Munich really has stocked up for this season. Could FC Bayern Munich win it all this season?

I think that there are numerous teams solid on paper, it is a long season and lots can happen. I like the team ULM put together though.

Since playing in the Beko BBL, have you ever seen a better front court than Jared Homan, Chevon Troutman, Lawrence Roberts and Jan Jagla? How much are you looking forward to these challenges?

That was big for them to bring back Troutman and Homan, they were big parts of their attack last year. Having Roberts as well just adds to the strength of their front court. It will be a fun game with Bryant, Nankivil, Theis and myself battling those guys.

Who would beat whom in their prime? The Dream team or team USA 2012?

That is the question that everyone wants to know but no one ever will. People say that this team wasn’t as good because they didn’t blow everyone out like the 92 team did. The game is so much different now, that 92 team inspired the world to play basketball and they got better. The best player the 92 team played against was a young Toni Kukoc? These guys are playing teams with 5-6 NBA players on them, All Stars, NBA champions. Im like both teams, 92 team has size advantage with Dwight and Bosh not playing this year.

What was your favorite Olympic moment?

Men’s Basketball taking the gold. I was completely amazed with gymnastics, those people are crazy athletic.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Hear no evil, see no evil. 80s movie with Richard Pryor, recommended by my good friend Jay Thomas.

Thanks Dane for the chat.

The  great thing about pre season basketball is that Beko BBL teams have the chance to test against a wide spectrum of teams coming from Japan, the Pro A, Holland or even France as the Fraport Skyliners are doing this season. Another advantage is getting reacquainted  with former players like Fabian Franke or former big German talent like Marco Buljevic who started his basketball career up the A5 in Giessen. Fraport Sklyiner fans didn´t only have the chance to see shot specialist Marco Buljevic show his straight forward parked stance in the corner, but also observe Fabian Franke again  who returned back to his living room in the BCM with PRO A team ETB Wohnbau baskets Essen to duel against the Fraport Skyliners. Franke played three seasons in Frankfurt playing a total of 29 games in the Beko BBL mostly getting garbage time and also having a double license for the PRO B team playing a total of 53 games and being the third best German scorer last season in the PRO B. Franke will always be remembered for being able to completely fill up the stat sheet in the Pro B, decline at times to take open shots in the Beko BBL, his 31 point explosion against BG Illertal last season and last season for his growing GQ looks and fancy outfits which easily would have given him best dressed Skyliner if there had ever been an award like that.  After a strong first half by the Fraport Skyliners, the ETB Wohnbau Baskets came back in the third quarter to cut the lead down to five points, but were unable to regain the lead as they ran out of gas. Franke was a central figure in the team and Fraport Skyliner captain Marius Nolte was thrilled to see his ex teammate again. “I was happy to see him again. I had 1-2 flashbacks of how he played with us when he was able to defend me well. However I was able to block him once. Fabian is a great guy and friend”, stressed Paderborn native Marius Nolte. Franke was unable to remember the Nolte block. “It was like  a home coming for me. I got a warm welcome and it was cool to see all the people again. I don´t know if Marius blocked me, because I wanted to pass the ball, but he did a good job on me”, added Fabian Franke.  Ex teammate Devin Gibson was also happy to see his ex teammate. “I spoke to him before the game and it was nice. This was a good test, because we will also play against Jimmy Mckinney and Jacob Burtschi this season.  I think that he will be a solid player for them and produce much”, commented Texas native Devin Gibson. “It was nice coming back to the BCM. I played here from 2006-2008 with Giessen. My dad comes from Hessen and I really like this training facility”, said 2009 Beko BBL champion with Oldenburg Marco Buljevic.

After the more than convincing 100-57 win against PRO A team BV Chemnitz 72 hours ago, where the Fraport Skyliners stifled the team from the former eastern Germany often with their press defense not allowing them to inbound the ball, the team had their second meeting with a PRO A team with the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen where they didn´t have as an easy time. They had a big second quarter, fell asleep in the third quarter like a overblown black bear after a tasty feast of berries, but closed out the game in the fourth quarter with big shots from the Jones gang, Danilo Barthel and Konstantin Klein.  “We played a good first half defensively. Essen came back in the  second half and played well. The result may be a bit too high from their stand point. We weren´t able to keep up the tempo in the third quarter which gave Essen the chance to come back. Chemnitz didn´t come to terms with our pressure, but Essen did. Essen should be able to be a top team in the PRO A”, stressed Skyliner sport director Kamil Novak. The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen played with a lot of heart, but in the end were a bit overwhelmed by the higher class of players that the Fraport Skyliners have. “We played hard for 40 minutes. We had some mental lapses and weren´t always as well organized when they pressed. We were in game and we wanted to win and we showed that we could hang with a Beko BBL team. The way we were able to play them will help our confidence”, stated Orlando, Florida native Rickey Claitt.

The Fraport Skyliners entered the game without former German national player Johannes Herber who was out with the flu. The team also had a void at the forward position as Alexander Franklin had been cut recently and the team was still without new power forward Dion Dowell who was expected to arrive in Frankfurt on Saturday. The Fraport Skyliners had young German Konstantin Klein in the starting lineup and right away produced as he made a nice pump fake on American 198cm forward Terren Harbut and scored inside off the glass as if he was a very undersized power forward.  Essen made a lot of pressure on offense and had for a stretch the lead, but always had to contend with the full court press of Frankfurt. Fabian Franke gave Essen its first lead with a three pointer. German forward Danilo Barthel who had a long shooting day from the parking lot at 2/9, but had better luck from the field as he gave Frankfurt the lead back 7-4 as he scored on a runner and slammed home a beautiful Konstantin Klein bounce pass.  Essen then went on a 5-0 run as Marco Buljevic hit a brilliant fade away jumper in the corner over Klein and American Logan Stutz nailed a three pointer as the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen led 11-7. The Fraport Skyliners didn´t let this little burst of energy from Essen startle them as they closed out the first quarter 8-4 to dead lock the game at 15-15. Frankfurt displayed some crisp ball movement and the guy who you want to get the last shot is a guy like Anthony Jones who is parked behind the three point line and always ready to release a bomb hitting. After a Joey Henley tap in, Klein drew a foul making two free throws and ended the first quarter scoring on a lay in getting a quick feed from German Johannes Vogtmann showing once again his masterful passing qualities.

Both teams got going slowly in the second quarter as no team was able to get anything going inside and rather focusing on finding that open shot from the mid distance or from outside. The Fraport Skyliners then finally scored inside as Devin Gibson did his typical quick steps finding the open space and then serving Marius Nolte cusine in form of a basketball with a high lob that he easily put home. Essen then got a timely three pointer from Lexington, Kentucky native Terren Harbut who has played his entire career in Germany for teams like Paderborn, Herten and BV Chemnitz. The Fraport Skyliners led 18-17, but would now open up the game as they went on a 26-7 run to close out the second quarter leading 44-25. Danilo Barthel started the scoring attack with six straight points as he scored inside using his wit and waiting for the defender to commit and fall on him as he was in the air making the lay up and one and then nailed a three pointer with his typical high rainbow. Essen trailed 24-17. After a Marco Buljevic three pointer, the Skyliners hit three consecutive three pointers often on the transition as the club continued to go make the game fast after each defensive rebound. Johnathon Jones hit and PRO B player Larry Wright connected twice as the Fraport Skyliners led comfortably 37-20. The Fraport Skyliners continued to hit at a high percentage as Vogtmann made a mid distance jumper , Johnathon Jones read a pass perfectly jumped in front tipped the ball away and went coast to coast with a one handed dunk. Anthony Jones closed out the scoring in the second quarter making an open three pointer. The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen went into half time with a lot to talk about as they trailed 44-25. “We had very good defensive pressure in the second quarter. We had better ball movement and started to make more shots”, stressed Fraport Skyliners guard Devin Gibson. “We weren´t getting into the passing lanes, gave up too many offensive rebounds and just let them play. If that happens you can quickly be down by 20 points”, added Marco Buljevic. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 42% from the field and 40% from outside while the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen shot 37% from the field and 36% from outside. Frankfurt had the 20-15 edge, but only three turnovers while Essen had 11 turnovers.

The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen kept the basketball adage alive that basketball is a game of runs and set forth theirs as they battled back into the game. Essen did start off fast going on a mini 4-0 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 44-29 started to push the ball inside more with success. 196cm forward Joey Henley who is an avid Dallas Cowboys fan scored hard over Nolte and Buljevic showed that he wont shy from going inside scoring over Klein. It seemed like Essen might be in the middle of their run, but instead was put on hold as the Fraport Skyliners were able to bounce back on a potent 10-0 run to extend their lead to 54-29. Nolte started the run finding some daylight in the lane getting a pass from Gibson. Anthony Jones then responded hit twice from the field and from the corner for three getting a four point play. Whenever the shot clock is down or the Skyliners seem to be in trouble, it is the American who hits the big shots. The ETB Wohnbau Baskets had had enough and now made the game interesting again going on a 17-4 run to close out the third quarter trailing only 58-49. Essen got back into the game playing a clever inside out game. Buljevic started the run with a three pointer. Essen then got two back to back buckets inside as 24 year old 205cm forward Logan Stutz that played for Leitershofen and in Austria last season scored over Nolte and Henley made a reverse lay up who was very active all day long on the boards. Henley then scored again making  a guard type play coming from the second row in the lane and stepping in front of a pass and going coast to coast for the basket. PRO B player Tim Oldenburg then hit a mid distance jumper from the corner as Frankfurt still led 58-38. Essen closed out the third quarter with a 11-0 run to trail 58-49. Stutz hit from outside, German Carsten Bartels scored inside and Harbut scored from the top of the key. “We played better defense, got in the passing lanes, got steals and had better ball movement”, stressed Essen guard Marco Buljevic. “We were a bit winded in the third quarter. We were getting the shots that we wanted, but they just weren´t falling”, added Devin Gibson.

The ETB Wohnbau Baskets still had energy and kept their 11-0 run from the end of the third quarter going as 21 year old 201cm forward and ex LTi Giessen 46er Roben Christen scored inside and Stutz scored easily inside as the Fraport Skyliners had little defensive pressure or body containment in the paint as the PRO A team was suddenly only down 58-53. However the Fraport Skyliners finally stopped their scoring drought of almost seven minutes dating back to the last bucket from Tim Oldenburg in the third quarter by getting production from captain Marius Nolte who got a lob pass from Gibson. Gibson then nailed a jumper as Essen trailed 62-53. However Essen still  was clawing their way back as Harbut hit a free throw and Rickey Claitt hit a fade way as Essen trailed only 62-56. However the Fraport Skyliners had had enough now and simply were still too overpowering even so late in the game closing out the game with a forceful 16-4 run. Barthel nailed a three pointer to help improve his poor shooting day from down town and Anthony Jones lit up the scoreboard again. Henley then grabbed an offensive rebound and got a put back as Essen trailed only 68-58. After a Johnathon Jones three pointer at the shot clock buzzer, it was Konstantin Klein that ultimately that brought Essen back to reality with two consecutive three pointers to lead 77-60. Klein closed out the game with a free throw only after Skyliner head coach Muli Katzurin had raced over to the referee to get the free throws as most everyone had seen the game as over. “We were more focused in the fourth quarter and increased our defensive pressure”, stressed Devin Gibson. “One could see the big difference in individual class that there is between both teams in the fourth quarter. We defended the pick and roll very bad and Frankfurt was always able to penetrate into the heart of our defense. We didn´t have the strength to come back down by so much”, added Marco Buljevic.

The Skyliners were led by Danilo Barthel with 15 points, six rebounds and three assists. Anthony Jones added 14 points, four rebounds and three steals. Konstantin Klein produced 13 points and four assists. Johnathon Jones contributed 12 points. The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen were led by Joey Henley with 16 points. Logan Stutz added 14 points and Marco Buljevic 10 points. The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen shot a tad better from the field at 44% as Frankfurt did at 42%. Frankfurt shot 38% from the three point line and Essen 37%. The Fraport Skyliners easily won the rebound battle 37-31 and had nine turnovers while Essen had 15. One player who continues to make strides is 21 year old German Konstantin Klein who scored in double figures and started at point guard and is blessed with a healthy confidence level. He already has the respect of his teammates as training camp isn´t even a month old. “Konstantin Klein is a great player. He can really do it all. He really has no weakness. He can shoot, is a great passer and plays hard defense. He will be a great player”, warned Skyliner teammate Devin Gibson.  As time goes by, the public and players will know who Konstantin Klein is. “I didn´t know who he was before today, but I like his game. He plays with a lot of snap. He is very aggressive on the ball defense and gets in the passing lanes. He also showed that he is a good ecision maker on offense. I sensed that he isn´t afraid of nayone. He has a lot of potential. He also shows not too much respect of the opponent in a positive way”, stressed Marco Buljevic. The Fraport Skyliners test against Dutch team Nijmegen today.

Don Beck has been a professional basketball coach for 34 years. He started his coaching career in 1978 for Santa Barbara College. After that he got further experience coaching Bentley College, Rutgers University, and Fresno State University. He came to Europe in 1992 to coach Sunair Oostende (Belgium). He then spent 9 very successful seasons with TBB Trier reaching four cup finals and winning two. He then coached the EWE Baskets Oldenburg from 2002-2007. In 2007-2008, he coached  Euphony Bree (Belgium-D1). The next season he coached  Euphony Bree (Belgium-D1), in Jan.’09 hired by Eiffel Towers Den Bosch (Holland-Eredivisie). In 2009-2010, he coached  Eiffel Towers Den Bosch (Holland-Eredivisie). He has been head coach of Toyota Alvark (Japan-JBL) since 2010. He spoke to German Hoops during his three team tour of Germany while he was in Frankfurt.

Thanks for talking to eurobasket Don. It has been five years since your last engagement in Germany with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. What do you miss the most on and off the court in Germany?

I still live in GermanyWhen I am not working in Japan I spend my off season in Trier and the States. I can´t really say that I miss anything, because I am always back in Trier. I have learned to drink white wine which the Mosel region is famous for.

You had coached many years in Trier and Oldenburg and since have coached in Belgium, Holland and Japan. Did you have enough of the German basketball scene? Did you still have offers from German teams in the last years? Why did you go to Japan?

I have been blessed of having my best years as a coach before coming to Japan. I won two cups with TBB Trier and went to four finals. We played international and went to the playoffs. With Bree we finished in first place and went to the finals. Then I went to Holland and coached Den Bosch. We reached the final and lost a seven game playoff series to Amsterdam who had kicked out Oldenburg from international play the season they won the BBL title. Amsterdam had a real good team that year. The next season the team made changes and we weren´t as successful and I had to go. I then had the choice between Mons and Toyota Alvark. It was a tough decision, but Japan was a great opportunity. Everything is done so professional and it’s the best training facility I have ever seen. Toyota is a great sponsor and it was just a great opportunity where I couldn´t say no

You coached young players Doron Perkins and D or Fischer in 2006. How happy are you how much they have progressed and how much were you able to help in their development as players?

That last year in Oldenburg was very unstable with a lot of mistrust. I am glad that I had Fischer for a whole year. He really needed that and he was already a good player at the time. Perkins came in the middle of the season and was a very unique player. He was athletic, could get to the rim and could be as good a defender as anyone when he wanted to. After I left I took Fischer and Perkins to Bree. They continued to play well and their stock went up. Soon after they would play for Macabbi Tel Aviv. I helped them, but I had good assistants who helped as well. The programs in Oldenburg and Bree really benefited their development.

You gave a young Heiko Schaffartzik a chance in 2006 after he had been with Giessen and in Nurnberg. He had a very bad shooting year with Oldenburg, but how sure were you in that season that the German could become  a top German team national player?

I was sure from the start that Heiko was a way better player than what he was showing. His minutes fell as Perkins was brought in. But I am not surprised with how his development has gone. Already in Oldenburg, Heiko always played hard with big balls. He was great to coach and was never afraid of anyone. I would of kept him in Oldenburg if I would have stayed.

You also coached very talented Desmond Penigar for two seasons who had played briefly with the Orlando Magic. After an injury, Penigar came back to have strong seasons in Austria and last year in Lebanon. Why wasn´t Penigar able to develop into a Eurocup/euroleague type of player?

I think his knee injury has kept him from that. He was never 100% healthy, but I remember he had a great playoff series against Alba Berlin. We should have moved him in his second season. He had a great attitude and was just a tough kid. He probably played 5-6 years more than he should of just because his knee was never correct. However the way he has held up, I wouldn´t be surprised if he plays until 40, because he is that special.

After you left in 2007, Predrag Krunic came in and two years later he won the German Beko BBL title. Players come and go each year, but did you build something in Oldenburg that Krunich ended with winning the title?

I can´t take any credit away from him, because he did it all on his own. Working in Oldenburg was good for me with Dr Brinker the chairmen of the EWE. Before I came, Oldenburg was never higher than 13. He was a big reason for our success. he had great vision and gave me great support. They wanted a team that would be competitive and we lived up to that when I was there. I am sorry that we could never win a cup or get deeper in the playoffs. When Krunic came, he got full reigns of the team. I never had that. We never had a training camp or plane. We never had the budget that he had. I played the path for him, but he simply demanded the things that I didn´t. I congratulate him for winning the title in 2009. It is so hard to win a title as it is

What is a strength in your coaching style that isn´t always recognized right away?

In my last five years, all my teams have been top 1 & 2 in rebounding and defense. We already had good defense in Oldenburg and was able to keep it in Bree and now in Japan. In the Japan league there are 11 categories and Toyota Alvark is #1 in nine categories and #2 in the other 2. I implemented a transition in Bree and it has carried over to Japan as well. I am very proud as well of the success of the offense as it has also been #1 with the defense in Japan which is unheard of.

How would you describe the style in the J-league? Was it difficult to adjust to this style coming from Europe? Did you have to make any changes?

There are two leagues in japan. The JBL where we play. It has 8 teams. It is the better league and most prestigious. We can carry only two foreigners and only one can be on the floor and never at the same time. The other league is the BJ league which can have 3-4 foreigners. The difference to the BBL is that at the 4-5 position there is no difference. But at the 1-3 positions, the players in Japan are shorter and less athletic

Toyota Alvark won the double last season. Of course it was a team effort, but where would the team have been without Jeff Gibbs?

Gibbs has been a good addition. We are very balanced and have no stars. We don´t have the best 1,2,3 players or even 5 man Japanese player, but the difference is that the team plays together. They just all play very well. On any given night Gibbs or Ricci can have a double double even though they split the minutes and never play more than 20-22 minutes.

You have coached many great players in your career, but where would you rate a Jeff Gibbs?

Gibbs is very unique. He just brings so much to the court. He can run the break, can pass and just has a great basketball mind. He reads the ball movement well and can shoot from outside. The opponent usually don´t take him serious when they see him play. When he gets going, he is a 6.11 player. He always creates havoc for the opponent with match up problems. I love his wisdom and is one of the best players that I have coached in the area of him doing what I want him to do. When he wants to make an impact then he is Mr incredible.

Toyota Alvark is on a German city tour playing in Frankfurt, Trier and Munich. How important is this visit bringing exposure to Japanese basketball in Europe?

We think it is important that our players see how the European style works. We want people here to see that we do play a different style but are still competitive. We played very well against TBB Trier and FC Bayern Munich. It was important that our players are exposed to the defensive intensity and bigger wing players in Germany. All the teams are physical in the BBL and playing here will help us in our quest to defend our title in Japan.

You will be back in Trier playing the team of Henrik Rodl. Do you remember where you were in 1993 when North Carolina beat Michigan in the NCAA final?

I was at the game. It is always great to watch ACC basketball and North Carolina is one of the best programs in the NCAA. Rodl playing in the NCAA was a big step for young German kids going to the NCAA. Last season there was something like 9 Germans playing in the NCAA. It seems to be growing each year.

What is your sweetest memory of your coaching days in Trier?

There are so many. Of course being in one place for 9 years in unbelievable. Trier is just a great place with great fan support. The players always feel comfortable there. We had the lowest budget, but still reached 4 cup finals. The cup wins were a great memory as was the wins against Alba Berlin. I don´t support the BBL now how the cup is set up. I think that it is wrong. In the old format there was always one team that wasn´t on the radar and snuck into the Top 4. With the new format, that surprise effect is taken away of a sleeper getting in.

You also had some nice battles against Frankfurt. I remember Malick Badiane kicking a chair in Oldenburg in 2005. What is your fondest memory playing against Frankfurt? Do you remember the game against Frankfurt on the last game day in 2006?

We always had fun games against Frankfurt. I remember some good wins against Gordie Herbert. Gunnar Wobke has done  a good job there and was always a forward thinking guy of how to build teams. I don´t remember that game, but it was a good win for Frankfurt.

You also coach against Bayern Munich. They have moved up to the Beko BBL and have enriched the German basketball name. How excited were you about playing the most famous German sports team and will you buy dinner for the team if they win?

I have always tried to promote basketball with needing them in a big city. It is very important that FC Bayern Munich is in the BBL now. Perhaps with this branding it could happen in the future in cities like Hamburg or Dortmund. When FC Bayern Munich plays basketball, then they are still FC Bayern Munich the name and that is very important. They have one of the best coaches with Dirk Bauermann who has had numerous success. They might not have been that successful last season, but I am sure that they will challenge for the title this season.

Who would win in their prime, the Dream team of Team USA 2012?

I am over 50 and I can only go with the Dream team. The Dream team was a special team like the first man on the moon. The 2012 was a great team too, but the Dream Team was one of a kind

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The French film Ziemlich beste Freunde

Thanks Don for the chat.

Kevin Hamilton is a 28 year old 193cm guard from Queens Village, New York that is playing his second season for BBC Bayreuth. He played at Holy Cross from 2002-2006 and played together with ex Skyliner Keith Simmons. In his senior year, he played 31 games averaging 17.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.5apg, 3.3spg, FG: 38.1%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 77.7%. In his rookie season 2006-2007, he came to Europe and played in Poland for Polpak Swiecie playing 19 games and averaging 13.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2(2.3spg), 2FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 64.2%. In 2007-2008, he played in France for Besancon Basket Comte Doubs (France-ProB) playing 2 games and averaging 6.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg. He also had a short tenure in Mexico with Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun. In 2008-2009, he returned back to Poland to play for SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg playing 32 games averaging 11.0ppg, 5.1rpg, Assists-1(6.4apg), Steals-1(2.8spg), FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 66.5%. He was not lazy in the last three summers staying in game shape and playing in Puerto Rico playing 90 games. In tue summer of 2009, he played for Indios de Mayaguez playing  35 games and averaging 10.5ppg, 4.7rpg, Assists-3(6.3apg), Steals-2(1.7spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 70.6%. His father was a draft pick of The Boston Celtics in 1980. In 2009-2010, he played his first season in Braunschweig playing 39 games: 10.1ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-3(5.4apg), Steals-2(1.9spg), FGP: 63.7%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 77.6%. In 2010-2011 for Braunschweig, he averaged 9,oppg, 4,1rpg and 4,3apg. Last season, he was injured and was only able to play  4 games: 8.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.0apg, 1.3spg. This past summer he played in Puerto Rico for  Indios de Mayaguez (Puerto Rico-BSN) playing  23 games: 7.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.6apg, Steals-4(1.6spg), FGP: 40.2%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 61.5%. He spoke to German Hoops about BBC Bayreuth and his friend Alexander Franklin of the Fraport Skyliners.

After missing most of last season, you came back ready to go, but now will miss another 1-2 months. How are you coping with another hardship in your basketball career?

It always sucks when you have to miss time with your team but I am optimistic that I will be back soon, and 100 percent healthy.

Will it be more beneficial to get a point guard for the short term or give the reigns to Simon Schmitz and Nate Rhonert?

I think so, it gives them a lot of reps at the position and some experience that will help us during the season.

Despite being without Jason Cain, Nate Rhonert and your self, BBC Bayreuth gave a good figure in the test game against Wurzburg. How pleased have you been with the development of the team in preseason. What is the strength of the team?

I have been pretty pleased. Like any team at this phase we have a lot to work on but we work hard and play together which are the most important things to accomplish in preseason in my opinion so I think the rest will fall into place.

I see the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg as a top 4 team despite the increased competitive nature of the Beko BBL? Where do you see this team and can they build on their success of last season?
They will definitely be a good team and they have a lot of experienced winners so I expect them to be tough, but anything is possible in this league.

Germans Nicolai Simon and Simon Schmitz were one and two in scoring for BBC Bayreuth in an early test game. Simon is still young, but has been around for ages starting in the Erdgas Ehingen program. How have you been helping him in practice?

Well I have seen Simon get progressively better these past two years and this year he has gotten stronger and much more aggressive. I think he is going to impress a lot of people. He has always been a hard worker and smart player and I think he will be able to establish himself as a top young German talent this year. Nicolai has been a player I have always been impressed with. He is a great shooter and also has a great work ethic. I have enjoyed the first few weeks getting to know him and I am happy he is on my team this year !

It seems a lot of talk as centered around what Gary Mcghee will be able to do or a Jason Cain having a big year, but quietly Joe Trapani has been playing his game with success. Who does his game remind you of and will he be bale to adapt to the high level of the Beko BBL?

I think Joe is going to have a big season for us. He causes a lot of problems at the 4 and 3 positions for other clubs and plays hard all the time. He is too fast and clever for most 4’s and too strong and athletic for people at the 3 position. Joe is also a great guy who is hungry to win so I am excited to suit up with him this year as well.

How fortunate are the Fraport Skyliners to have your friend Alexander Franklin on their roster?

Very fortunate , people in Frankfurt have a player to be excited about.

Recently the Fraport Skyliners gave your friend Alexander Franklin a try out contract. Knowing him well as a player and person how confident are you that he will be on the Skyliner roster on October 3rd when the season starts?

Alex Franklin will be a Fraport Skyliner all season. There are not many people in this league who can match up with him athletically and physically. He is going to bring a lot of energy and excitement to Frankfurt.

Franklin describes himself as very versatile on the court. If you had to choose one aspect of his game that will help the Fraport Skyliners most what would it be?

It is hard to pin point one thing. The obvious answer would be his athleticism and his strength. But I really appreciated his composure and decision making as a young player. He was a big if not the biggest reason for our team in Puerto Rico’s championship run.

You played this past summer with Alexander Franklin at Indios de Mayaguez (Puerto Rico-BSN). What was the most amazing thing that you saw him do on the court?

A dunk in the semi-finals…..Ridiculous !

Who would win a game in their prime the Dream team or Team USA 2012?

In their prime the Dream team

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Megamind.

Thanks Kev for the chat.

A year ago, the Fraport Skyliners had a taste of NBA flair joining them with 2012 Milwaukee Bucks Draft Pick Jon Leuer with the always present mischeovous Ferris Bueller appearance  and former NBA player Jermario Davidson who was growing a special patent on his fade away jumper from the wing and the only thing missing form him last season was a rap performance standing on the rim, but this season the Fraport Skyliners have swapped NBA taste with try-out taste in the likes of Anthony Jones, Johnahon Jones and Alexander Franklin. In the first pre season exhibition game, the Fraport Skyliners met 2012 Japanese league champion Toyota Alvark at Basketball city and two familiar faces returned back to face off with Jeff Gibbs who was known as being the smallest center in the Beko BBL often terrorizing players 20 centimeters taller than him and always having that competitive smile dueling with the smilers like Immanuel Mcelroy and Michael Hakim Jordan for the widest one and head coach Don Beck who coached 9 years in Trier winning two cup titles and coaching five years in Oldenburg helping form Euroleague players like D or Fischer and Doron Perkins. The Fraport Skyliners who had to play without an injured Quantez Roberston who broke his left ring finger last week and are still seeking a center,  gave a solid effort at the training facility, but had very little competition with the Japanese champion Toyota Alvark. “This was the worst game we have played in two years. We shot the ball very bad tonight. I think that we were a bit tired and that it was the end of our Germany trip. I wasn´t satisfied with our energy level. We had an off day. We are really a better team than this”, stressed Toyota Alvark head coach Don Beck. The Fraport Skyliners dominated the game and played a solid defensive game in the traditional manner of MUli Katzurin showing a forceful full press defense. Johannes Herber played an exceptional game and was pleased that the team could finally get their exhibition schedule started. “It was the first game and we were all a bit tired, but it was good to play against another team. We were able to see how we function as a unit and see where each player can use their strength. Toyota Alvark wasn´t as competitive and we lost a little concentration at times. We had problems at the rebound, but all in all it was a good performance”, stressed Fraport Skyliner shooring guard Johannes Herber.

Fraport Skyliner fans also saw the return of Mr incredible Jeff Gibbs who played in the Beko BBL from 2006-2010 leading the league in rebounding three years in a row. He is starting his third season with Toyota Alvark and was happy to see some familiar faces. “It is always nice to come back to my second home Germany. It is also nice to see familiar faces like the my ex teammate the warrior Emeke Erege”, stressed Jeff Gibbs. Try-out player Alex Franklin was able to take some glimpses of how the 188cm center Ohio Native works under the basket. “Gibbs was a beast that was a presence down low and  really knew how to use his body well”, said ex Siena player Alexander Franklin. Gibbs showed that he is an expert of filling up the stat sheet finishing with 6 points, 13 boards, and three blocks and was a menace on the offensive glass hauling down seven offensive rebounds. Fraport Sklyiners captain Marius Nolte had his battles down low with him as well as in the past in the Beko BBL and was still amazed of his game. “He is 32, but it is still amazing how he grabs rebounds. We had good duels with Paderborn-Ulm. I am happy that he hasn´t lost his game, because he is a very nice guy”, commented Marius Nolte. Johannes Herber had the hot hand through out the game and the only thing missing was grabbing a lounge chair and watching Mr incredible Jeff Gibbs operate. “I was a bit surprised that he didn´t start, but he was still their best player. It is fascinating how he fishes in the rebounds. It is really fun to watch”, expressed Ex Alba Berlin player Johannes Herber.

Before the game commenced one could see how anxious the fans were for the game to start, but also the players. Johannes Herber powered home a thunderous dunk getting a smile from injured Quantez Robertson something he could show more in games this season. On the opposing side, Jeff Gibbs was getting ready and already had his focused game face on as if he was about to play in  a game seven and Skyliner legend Pascal Roller was walking around with his kids and a ball in one hand as if he was looking for some shorts and sneakers to come in off the bench. When the game did start, it was very lopsided as the Fraport Skyliners got off to a fast start leading 8-0. Toyota Alvark seemed surprised by the Skyliners physical play and rude full court press and couldn´t hit a shot off the side of the barn. The Fraport Skyliners quickly got their offensive engine revved as Marius Nolte scored inside twice and Anthony Jones getting a quick steal and getting an easy transition bucket. The Frankfurt defense continued to wreck havoc as they got another steal and Michigan native Johnathon Jones scored on the fast break. Frankfurt led 8-0. “We got off to a slow start didn´t bring the energy that we should of. They played tough full court press and our shots didn´t fall. They plan outworked us”, stated ex Otterbein player Jeff Gibbs.  Toyota Alvark finally got on the score board as it almost took them six minutes to get their first points as Takeuchi Kosuke hit a mid distance jumper. Johannes Herber hit a three pointer from the top of the key as the Skyliner offense was giving the best Japanese defense problems. Toyota Alvark was #1 in 9 of 11 Defensive categories in the JBL league last season. However even when the floor was filled with PRO B players, Toyota Alvark couldn´t really find an answer against the Skyliner pressure. Perhaps the prettiest bucket in the first quarter was a give and go between Young guns Konsatntin Klein and Johannes Vogtmann as Klein finished with an easy layup. Toyota Alvark hit two shots from down town in the last two minutes from Matsui Keijuro and Kumagai Takayuki. Konstan Klein showed his quickness with a lay up getting a pretty feed from Devin Gibson as the Fraport Skyliners led 18-10 after one quarter. “Frankfurt dominated and defended well. Frankfurt was very active and did a good job not letting Toyota Alvark get inside”, stressed ex ratiopharm Ulm player Emeke Erege.

The Fraport Skyliners got off to a quick start once again in the second quarter going on a 8-2 run to lead 26-12. Anthony Jones got hot making a fade away jumper and then showing his scoring instinct hitting a three pointer. However this quick run didn´t impress Toyota Alvark as they responded with their own 8-0 to cut the Skyliner lead to 26-20. Toyota Alvark finally got some points inside as Phillip Ricci scored over Nolte, three point specialist Okada Yusuke who shot 40% from the parking lot last season in the JBL league hit from down town, Arao Gaku hit a runner from the corner and Skyliner Alexander Franklin had some misfortune tipping in a ball into his own basket. The second quarter continued to be a quarter of runs as now it was time for the Fraport Skyliners to shine again as went into half time with a 11-2 run and leading very comfortably 37-22. In the past when the Fraport Skyliners needed rapid points to get out of a dilemma fast, it would be a Dashaun Wood two seasons ago or Jermario Davidson last season and against Toyota Alvark it was ex German national player Johannes Herber who showed his leadership qualities  making a three pointer and scoring inside. Herber also made free throws as did Anthony Jones. Alexander Franklin might only have produced two points, but it was a very beautiful play as he scored inside in traffic. “Frankfurt continued to execute while Toyota Alvark was hitting some three pointers, but still missed many easy lay ups. Frankfurt was focusing a lot on Jeff Gibbs and he also missed some easy baskets”, added Jeff Gibbs friend Emeke Erege. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 39% from the field and 23% from outside as Toyota Alvark was shooting 20% from the field and 17% from outside. Toyota Alvark had the slim 24-23 rebound edge and six turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners had only three turnovers.

In the third quarter, The Fraport Skyliners were able to hold their lead, but in the latter half of the third quarter let Toyota Alvark back into the game. Muli Katzurin continued to experiment playing his whole bench especially the try out players and his PRO B wunder kinder. Toyota Alvark jumped on a mini 4-0 run cutting the Fraport Skyliners lead to 37-26 as Jeff Gibbs scored inside and Shonaka Takeki scored from the corner. Anthony Jones then showed some more brilliance scoring in bunches as he nailed a jumper in the corner and then read a Toyota Alvark pass and jumped in stealing the ball and going coast to coast for an  easy lay up. Herber then hit a jumper as the Fraport Skyliners led 44-26. Matsui Keijuro then hit a jumper. Gibbs then scored in his typical manner scooting inside for the position getting the ball under the basket making seemingly 1000 fakes and then hitting  a hook shot over the out stretched hand of Herber. Johannes Vogtmann then scored inside getting a super no look pass from Devin Gibson. The 19 year old 211cm center from the former East Germany played a spirited game scoring three points, getting nine rebounds and blocking Jeff Gibbs. “I liked the play of Vogtmann. He will develop if he continues to work hard”, stressed Jeff Gibbs. Gibbs showed his rebound power grabbing a rebound over Vogtmann who is 22 centimeters taller, but knows exactly who was the tallest player he surprised by shooting over. “I shot over Charles Shackleford. He was an ex NBA seven footer”, smiled Jeff Gibbs. After Takeki and Herber exchanged baskets, the Fraport Skyliners still led 49-33. Toyota Alvark closed out the third quarter strong trailing only 59-47. Deadly three point specialist Okada Yusuke hit two three pointers. Herber helped the Skyliners keep the cushion with a three pointer and steal where he was off to the races scoring a transition hoop. Konstatin Klein made the last basket as the buzzer sounded on a fast break play as the Fraport Skyliners led 59-47. “We finally played the way that we should and play our style which is our defensive intensity. We also picked up our shooting”, added Jeff Gibbs. “They came back because they are a good team and good teams make runs which we couldn´t counter”, said Fraport Skyliner forward Alexander Franklin.

Muli Katzurin must of found the encouraging words between quarters as the Fraport Skyliners jumped out on a 14-2 lead to decide the game as they led 73-49 in the fourth quarter. After Konstantin Klein hit a three pointer that got a lucky BCM  role, Phillip Ricci countered with a lay in. After a Vogtmann block on Gibbs, it was Anthony Jones who continued to fight for a contract setting the tone in the fourth quarter. He really showed how versatile he can be even though he is known for being able to hit from anywhere on the floor. He started with a clever pump fake in the corner and then dashing to the basket with a lay in which no Toyota Alvark big could pick up. He then timed a perfect ally-op pass to Danilo Barthel who shoveled the ball off the glass. Johnathon Jones then found some daylight from the wing and scoring on the penetration before it was Anthony Jones again scoring on a transition play as Johnathon Jones found him. “The Skyliners pushed it up an extra notch in the fourth quarter. Our intensity level wasn´t there.  They continued to knock down shots”, stressed Jeff Gibbs. Toyota Alvark would close out the game with a positive 9-5 run, but it was all too little too late. Danilo Barthel helped his stat line with a three pointer in the last minute as he finished with seven points and eight rebounds in 19 minutes. “One could see that the first season of Danilo helped him and he gave us exactly what we needed tonight”, stressed Fraport Skyliner captain Marius Nolte. The Fraport Skyliners were never really challenged and were consistent on defense. “We kept the defensive intensity for 40 minutes. We also executed pretty well. This was a stepping stone for us, but we still have things to work on. It is the little things that we need to improve like rotations and we got hurt on the boards”, stressed Alexander Franklin.

The Fraport Skyliners were led by Anthony Jones with 23 points, six rebounds and four assists. “He is a scorer and I wasn´t surprised how well he played. I hope that there is more to come from him”, added teammate Alexander Franklin. “Anthony Jones has that feel to score. He fits into our system and team”, added Marius Nolte. Johannes Herber added 21 points. Toyota Alvark were led by Kumagai Takayuki and Matsui Keijuro with 10 points a piece. The Fraport Skyliners shot 44% from the field and 36% from the parking lot while Toyota Alvark had a rough shooting day with 33% from the field and 31% from the parking lot. The Fraport Skyliners edged Toyota Alvark on the boards 40-39 and had 14 turnovers while Toyota Alvark had 17 turnovers. It was only the first test, but captain Marius Nolte was pleased with the first result. 2It was good to play against other players. We usually have that internal competition with each other in practice. I feel that we are all working together. This win will give us a push for the next game”, added Marius Nolte.

 

Dijuan Harris is a 175cm guard from Charlotte, North Carolina that is starting his third professional basketball season and first with the Lti Giessen 46ers. He is a guard that is super fast and strong point guard. Pushes the ball quick in transition and scores in a variety of ways. Uses ball screens well, and finishes in the lane with his strength. Creates open looks for all his teammates and puts a lot of pressure on the defense when on the fast break. He is a great defender because of his quickness, and beats the offense to the spot because of his great anticipation.Last season, he played for  Usak Universitesi Belediyespor (Turkey-TB2L, starting five): 36 games: 14.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 23.4%, FT: 72.9%. He played at Charlotte in the NCAA breaking various school records. In his rookies eason in 2010, he played for Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five), left in Nov.’10: 11 games: 19.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 75.0%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Welcome to the LTi Giessen 46ers. You will be starting your third professional season and first in Germany afte rplaying in Finland and Turkey. What were the main reasons for coming to Germany Beko BBL league?

There were several reasons in deciding to come to Germany BBL, but the top 2 reasons were because of the competition I would see on a day in and day out basis, and The League is very well respected in Europe.

You arrived in Germany recently landing in Frankfurt which is overwhelming with its big skyline. You are from a city Charlotte, but were you disappointed when you saw the small university town of Giessen for the first time?

No, not at all, I am actually accustomed to seeing the smaller cities in Europe, my first 2 years in Europe I have been in very small towns, so this is actually bigger than the first 2, so another step in the right direction.

What is your first general impression of Germany? What are you really looking forward to on and off the court?

I am looking forward to the competition and the atmosphere on the floor, and off the floor I have become a huge football fan so hopefully I can get to a game to watch Munich play before season is out.

The Beko BBL is a step up from lower leagues in Finland and TB2L Turkey. How ready are you for this challenge and how sure are you that you can step it up at this level?

Its nothing new to me, everybody everywhere put on their shirt and shoes just like I do, and I have been playing against the best since high school, and this is nothing different. Yes, it is a step up in competition, but I feel Like I can compete with the best of them, and I was just looking for an opportunity, and now I have it and I know ill make the best of it. I feel I will have a productive year, individually, and as a team. I am confident in my abilities, and when you work at your craft and you put the time and hard work in you know you ready for the big stage. I work with vets who been there and done what im trying to do such as TERELL MCINTYRE, VINCENT GRIER, ANTHONY MORROW, JUNIOR HARRINGTON, these are top level guards, and a NBA Player who I have either played against or worked out with.

You are a 175cm point guard. You will be teaming up with another diminutive guard Achmadschah Zazai. Have you ever been on a team where both point guards were under 180cm? What is advantage of having two very small guards?

Last time I played with another small guard was in college, It has its advantages but also has its disadvantages, but nonetheless I feel we will be fine, and will hold our own against bigger guards no matter what. I am accustomed to seeing big guards, either guarding me, or I have to guard them. Its just what comes with the territory.

You push the ball quick in transition and scores in a variety of ways. Uses ball screens well, and finishes in the lane with his strength. Creates open looks for all his teammates and puts a lot of pressure on the defense when on the fast break. What is a strength in your game that doesn´t always get noticed right away?

My defense doesnt always get noticed, but I play very good on the ball, and passing lane defense.

What is your first impression of head coach Mathias Fischer? What has been your experience with past coaches? What is always the most important thing that you have with your coach?

He is a very open guy, and a proven winner. My experience with past coaches have been great actually, but I feel this will be best yet because he speaks English fluently. It will be a lot easier as the PG to communicate with him and speak with him about on the floor situations that may occur in the game. Its actually 2 things, one being communication and the other being trust. To be able to speak with my coach about everything, and my coach trusting me in tight and close situations, and knowing ill get us in the right set, formation, and put us in position to win.
Last season you played for Usak Universitesi Belediyespor. You were averaging 30 plus minutes in the first half of the season, but in the second half your playing time drastically got reduced. What were the reasons for this?

My minutes dropped because the rule for TB2L WAS ONLY 1 AMERICAN ON COURT AT A TIME, so when other transfer came, THEY PLAYED HIM MORE, CAUSING MY MINUTES TO DECLINE
Doneal Mack has about 20 centimeters on you. What was the most important thing that you learned from him last season?

Well he guarded me a lot during the season in practice and he helped me to get my shot off still against bigger defenders, in 1 on 1 situations where I had to create for myself. He helped me because his length and athleticisim will bother anybody who he guards.

As a rookie, you played in Finland. What was your wake up call as a rookie in that league?

My wake up call in Europe was when I was in Finland and I played my second game there I believe, and we won I had 31 pts, 6ass but only took 14 shots total, thats when a light came on and I knew I belonged and no matter what nobody said I felt like I could play with anybody giving the right opportunity.

You played at Charlotte(NCAA) breaking many records. Who was the most difficult opponent on the court that might be in the NBA now?

There were a few guys that was a tough cover in college actually, as far as size goes, I feel Greivis Vasquez was tough. He had a pretty good game, he knew how to use his size and when to use it. Played within himself and with a lot of confidence, and the other guy would be Stephen Curry because his range on his shot was not like nobody else, and he would raise up from anywhere. He used the ball screen at Davidson very well.
Who would win in their prime if they played against each other. The Dream Team or Team USA 2012?

I would love to see that game, but it would never happen so as a guess I would say Dream Team

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Friday.

Thanks Dijuan for the chat.

Ricky Harris is a 25 year old 188cm guard from Baltimore, Maryland that last season played for the s.Oliver Baskets Wuerzburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga) playing 35 games: 9.8ppg, 1.8rpg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 67.0%. He scored in double figures 16 times and best point total was 25 against the LTi Giessen 46ers. He played at  Massachusetts (NCAA) from 2006-2010 playing a total of 129 NCAA games and in hiss enior year palyed  31 games: 19.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 72.9%. In 2010-2011, he started his basketball career with BC Siauliai (Lithuania-LKL): Lithuanian League: 8 games: 7.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 61.5%; EuroCup: 5 games: 12.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 47.6%; Baltic League: 14 games: 10.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 37.2%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 66.2%, in Jan.’11 moved to Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye (Ukraine-Superleague): 29 games: 9.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.6%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 67.4%, then moved to B-Meg Llamados (Philippines-PBA). At Massachusetts (NCAA), he played together with ex Bonn player Tony Gaffney for two seasons and the American only has fond memories of his ex teammate. “Ricky became one of my brothers while playing together at UMASS. He was always a great teammate and very hard worker. He is one of the more potent scorers I’ve ever played with, and while playing under a coach that is not going to put a leash on him, he could really flourish into a prominent European player. Always been a lot of fun to be around, and wants to do anything to help his team and teammates succeed and as a basketball player, those are the kinds of teammates that make seasons so enjoyable, people like slick rick”, stressed Tony Gaffney. Harris spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Ricky where are you presently and how has your summer been? What was the coolist activity that you were able to do this summer?

I am currently in my hometown Baltimore Maryland, my summer has been great and all but it’s time to get back to work and I am very eager and excited to see where I will end up

September is quietly rolling around and basketball teams in Europe in general are getting their rosters in order. How surprised are you that you are still currently unsigned for the coming season

I am a bit surprised because I think that I have had 2 very good seasons this past one being my second season, I have played on a Eurocup team my first year and I have also been a part of two final four team of their respective leagues. I know that the market has been a bit slow this season but I’m just waiting on my call it will come soon I hope.

Last season, you had a pretty solid season in the German Beko BBL for the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg playing 35 games: 9.8ppg, 1.8rpg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 67.0%. You got an offer, but the pay was low. Are you a bit disappointed that the club didn´t want you more?

The club wanted me back and I wanted to go back there, but we had trouble reaching an agreement and they went in another direction, that is part of the business though. I do miss them guys a lot and hopefully one day I will wear that jersey again in the future. They are a very good group of guys and the staff there now is amazing. I wish them nothing but the best this upcoming season and in years to come

The club got a superb shooting guard Jimmy Mckinney and experienced Lamont Mcintosh. Do you think that new coach Marcel Schroeder wants to go in a new direction at that position?

Marcel told me that it was mine he wanted me back. We just had a hard time finalizing a deal that both parties agreed on. Jimmy Mckinney is a very good player and I wish him well in Wurzburg, I have never seen Lamont Mccintosh play but I’m sure he will be a great asset to the team, Marcel is a great guy and I learned a lot from him this past season. He is going to be one of the best head coaches in Germany and wherever he coaches, he knows how to get the best out of his players in a good way.

In the last 12 games, you were only able to score in double figures one time in the last game of the season in Ulm. Did John Patrick lose confidence in your play?

I’m not sure if he lost confidence, but I do know what I am capable of and what I would have been able to do had I been given the the opportunity. Coach Patrick has been a winner in the Beko BBL for a long time now, and I do not question him or his decisions. I know that coach Patrick knows what type of player I am and what I can bring to a team. I wish him well in his future and upcoming opportunities.

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

I can do a lot of thing on the court penetrate pass shoot and rebound. This past season I was just labeled as a shooter but there is a lot more to my game than just shooting. I am a competitor that wants to win.

If you could sell yourself best, why would a top level team in Europe want to hire Ricky Harris?

I am a winner, a great team guy, great person on and off the court, I’m responsible and able to except my faults but most importantly willing to learn from them, I am a student of the game eager to learn more.

If you had the choice would you still like to play in the Beko BBL and why?

I would love to play in the Beko BBL. Germany in itself is a great place to play and live, the fan support is amazing whether you are at the top of the league, or in the bottom of the league you still have the support of your fans. If another German Beko BBL offer presents itself I’m sure me and my agent would be very eager and excited to work with that club.

Who was the toughest player that you had to match up against last season in the Beko BBL?

There are many good players in the German league to many to name, but if I had to say the toughest players, I would have to say practicing against my teammates everyday. John Little, Ben Jacobsen, Chester Fraizer, Chris Kramer, we went after each other so hard in practice that when it was game time it was easy to go out and play other teams toughest guys.

How does a summer work out plan look like for Ricky Harris? What do you do in the Am and PM to keep in shape and your basketball in shape?

In the morning I go to the YMCA to lift weights, at night I go to Towson University and work out on my basketball skill and conditioning

German talent Maximilan Kleber has been injured here and there the last years, but still has a lot of potential. You saw him in practice daily. How do you see his development and where will he be in 5 years?

Maxi is going to be in the NBA. He has the talent, athletic ability and skill set to be a NBA player. He is something to watch in the near future.

Who wins in their prime, the Dream team or Team USA 2012?

The Dream team would win.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The Hunger Games

Thanks Ricky for the chat.

Christopher Copeland is a 28 year old 203 cm power forward from Orange, New Jersey that recently signed a contract with the NBA New York Knicks. He went to the University of Colorado from 2002-2006. In his senior year, he played 30 games averaging 12.1ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.6apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 44%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 68.8%. In his first season overseas, he played for Beirasar Rosalia (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five), only pre-season, then moved to C.B. L’Hospitalet (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five) playing 4 games averaging 4.0ppg, 8.0rpg and then moved to Matrixx Magix Nijmegen (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five) playing 28 games and averaging 18.0ppg, 7.6rpg, 2.1apg, 1.5spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 79.3%.in 2008-2009 season, he moved to Germany to TBB Trier playing 34 games averaging 13.2ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 74.8%. In 2009-2010, he continued to play for TBB Trier playing 33 games: Score-2(16.8ppg), 4.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 76.0%.In 2010-2011, he played for  for Generali Okapi Aalstar (Belgium) he played 36 games: 14.6ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 33.5%, FT: 73.8%. Last season for Generali Okapi Aalstar, he played Belgian League: 33 games: Score-1(21.8ppg), 5.5rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 57.2%, 3PT-2(44.7%), FT: 79.1%; EuroChallenge: 11 games: Score-2(20.1ppg), 4.0rpg, 3.6apg, FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 79.2%. This summer, he played NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas (New York Knicks): 5 games: 13.8ppg, 4.0rpg He spoke to German Hoops about his season in Belgium and his time with TBB Trier this summer before he signed an NBA contract with the New York Knicks.

You recently played your second season in Belgium. How quickly has time flown by since your days with TBB Trier?

Time has been flying so I must be getting older. I had a great time in Belgium.

You have played two seasons with Generali Okapi Aalstar and have a contract for next season. Did you get tips from ex teammate James Gillingham about staying with one team for a longer time?

He was a great leader and friend when I was with TBB Trier. We haven´t talked in a while, but he used to always give me advice about things.

You wanted to come to the TBB Trier-Fraport Skyliners game, but you were held up in Belgium?

Yes I was in Belgium. I had been planning to come to that game for a while and see Jamal Shuler, but we lost an ugly game on the weekend and had to practice Sunday. I would loved to have come, but that comes with the job.

You live in Aalsz Belgium which is smaller than Trier. How did you like living there?

The people were great there and its more quiet which is my speed. It was a great situation. Trier was bigger and I loved the people there also. I already enjoyed going to the Petrisberg in Trier. I loved the fans in Trier.

You won the Belgium cup this year against the Antwerpen Giants. What kind of a feeling was it winning your first title in Europe?

Winning was very amazing. It was so more special the way we won. We had to claw back and fight back and win in OT. It is always so much more special when you can win like that especially in a big game.

You had a big 24-10 fourth quarter to bring the game to OT. What was key for getting the win?

Defense, defense, defense. We had to get stops and started hitting our shots. We took the game into OT and took over from there.

Have you ever seen a better Kevin Kruger who was named MVP with 31 points?

I have seen Kevin have many great nights this season. He was very important in our comeback and showed how great a point guard he is by controlling the tempo having a bigger lineup. He kept us in line and is just a great point guard.

You have played against 2008 Beko BBL scoring champion Tim Black. What do you like most about his game?

He is an intelligent player with a high basketball IQ. He is a very good decision maker and takes good shots. He makes his team better and it is hard to defend him. You never know what he will do.

What was it like playing in a 9 team league instead of an 18 team league like in Germany?

With less teams, you play the teams more and become more familiar with the teams. It becomes more challenging when you see the same guys so often. Scouting becomes so much more important.

You have always been a scorer, but this season you led the Belgium league in scoring. Did something change in your role compared to last season?

I had a much bigger role this season. We lost many talented guys so I had to step it up a bit.

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

Everybody talks about my scoring, but my passing gets underestimated.

What can you still improve on your game?

I can still improve my defense. My one on one is solid, but my off ball defense can get better.

Your teammate was Jorn Steinbach who is a Belgium national player. Can he make the next step to another country or will he always play in Belgium?

He can play anywhere. He is very talented and smart. I am looking forward to the next years to see where he will play and how he will develop.

What has been the most amazing thing that you have seen Kevin Kruger do in a practice?

He is very good and making half court shots.

Who is the best player that you have faced in Belgium?

Mike Haynes who used to play in Germany. He is very athletic and just an all around good player.

What are the biggest differences to Belgium and the Beko BBL?

I think that they are pretty much similar, but there are 9 teams more in Germany. The Beko BBL is taller. There are more bigs in the Beko BBL.

Do you still have contact to ex TBB Trier players?

I have contact to many, but mostly to Derek Raivio and Jamal Shuler.

What else do you miss from Trier besides the Petrisberg?

I hung out there very much, but if I wasn´t there, I was playing video games with George Evans, Jamal Shuler and Derek Raivio.

You had a 2-2 record against Frankfurt. What player do you remember most? Maybe Quantez Robertson?

Tez was very exciting and was all over the court, but I remember Derrick Allen the most. He was always the guy that I matched up against.

Maik Zirbes could land in the NBA someday. Did you already sense some years back that he had potential?

Yes I did. Maik has some natural abilities that not many have. He is a very hard worker and sky is the limit for him.

What was the perfect Derek Raivio to Chris Copeland pass?

That is hard, because he made so many great passes. He gave me ally-op passes or long passes that hit me in the chest.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row in practice?

At Colorado(NCAA), I once made a little less than 100. Josh Levin was my rebounder.

What was your most crazy shot in your basketball career?

In the corner way out of bounds shot from behind the basket.

With what players would you like to play together with?

With Jamal Shuler and Derek Raivio again?

If you had to chose between Nate Fox and Chris Young to play a one on one game with, who would you chose?

Neither. It would be a punishment to have to play against one of them. They are so hard to defend, because they are so big.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Inglourious Basterds.

Thanks Chris for the chat.