Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheineStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.
The RheinStars lost a tough 93-92 loss to the Basketball Lowen. How tough was it not playing and being able to help your team? It was very tough not being able to play and only watch. I really wish I was able to play but unfortunately I wasn’t able to play due to injury.
It was a tough battle that went to OT. It seemed like Erfurts big plays helped them pave the way to OT.
It was a hard fought game. I feel like the guys played hard but made some mistakes that the other team fed off of. They made some big shots down the stretch and that really hurt.
In the OT Paul Albrecht made a big block. Did that give the guests the momentum to win?
I don’t think that gave them the momentum at the end. I feel it was back and forth and was a huge block but I also think we had many other opportunities that we just didn’t take advantage of like we should’ve.
Ruppert Hennen was huge as always leading all scorers in points. Is his mid range game unstoppable? Yeah Ruppi seemed unstoppable in the second half with that mid range It seems like automatic. He is a really good player.
What positives could the RheinStars take from the loss? A 1 point loss always hurts, but the team did lead some categories of the stats.
Yeah I think one of the things is taking care of the ball. I feel we had too many turnovers very careless ones and feel that hurt us as a team. Hopefully we will be more aggressive and take care of the ball better.
On what areas of the game will the RheinStars work on most this week?
I feel our defense is always the main focus for us. We believe that great defense can lead to great offense. So our defense is always what we focus on most.
The next opponent are the Ahorn Baskets who are 3-3. What will be key to getting the win? Locking in on defense will be the key and us being aggressive from start to finish will be the key for us to win.
Basketball life couldn´t be any tougher for the EPG Guardians at the moment as they have a walking wounded list that seemingly won´t stop. In Bremerhaven they were without key players Ty Cockfield, Dominique Johnson, David Bohm and Moses Poelking. If that wasn´t bad enough, they had lost big man Maurice Pluskota who retreated back to PS Karlsruhe. However Koblenz never hung their heads but fought hard for 40 minutes losing only 83-73. The next bad news was that they didn´t have a week to recuperate, but had to play 3 days later against top team Munster who had a 6-1 record. They are a team that finds ways to win especially in crunch-time where they won 2 nail bitters. They don´t have any real superstar, but a team that play for each other. The EPG Guardians returned back home to their living room and were unable to showcase anything near to the performance they had had in Bremerhaven as they just didn´t have the needed energy to compete for 40 minutes. They were down quickly 18-2 and they never crawled out of their hole as the Uni Baskets Munster destroyed the EPG Guardians Koblenz 98-55. “We had no chance. We were too tired and were always a step behind. We were totally empty. We couldn´t play at their level”, stressed EPG Guardians Koblenz team manager Thomas Klein. Munster came prepared and took their last game Nurnberg as a good example and didn´t underestimate Koblenz. “We played 32 minutes against Nurnberg and then let them come back. We knew they had injury problems, but we knew we had to put the foot on the gas pedal for 40 minutes. We did a good job with our defense keeping them under control which helped us get out on transition”, stressed game top scorer Jonas Weitzel (205-C-1998) of the Uni Baskets Munster. “We didn´t come out with the energy that we wanted to. We got hit in the mouth first and never responded”, stated EPG Guardians guard Michael Bradley.
Jakob Hanzalek at the FT line
The Uni Baskets Munster came out roaring and luckily for Koblenz, they found better into their game to only be down by 12 points after 10 minutes. Munster jumped all over Koblenz leading 18-2 as the CGM arena was as quiet as ever as the comparison between both teams was like night and day. Munster wasn´t really doing anything fancy, but getting easy transition baskets and just attacking the rim whenever possible as surprisingly they layed off their hot three point shooting as they were second best in the Pro A coming into the contest. Ex BBL player Jonas Weitzel dominated the paint area scoring twice while American ex Butler forward Bo Hodges supplied 9 points as his athleticism allowed him to get easy baskets. American ex Butler (NCAA) forward Tyler Groce also scored twice showing he can play above the rim. Koblenz couldn´t establish any offensive rhythm as they didn´t move well with out the ball. They did attack the rim well, but missed many easy lay ups. They did finish the first quarter in fine fashion with a 11-7 run to get back into the game and trail 25-13. American Alin Blunt and German Jakob Hanzalek scored inside while American ex NCAA 3 player Kasey Draper and German Henning Schaake made free throws. “We missed many easy shots. Koblenz could of taken more advantage of the less aggressive on ball defense they were seeing from Munster. They were containing Draper well. We played good on ball defense. Munster was doing just enough to have the lead”, stated Thomas Klein.
Jaspar Guenther from outside
In the second quarter the Uni Baskets Munster continued to up their lead and play good basketball at both ends while the EPG Guardians Koblenz couldn´t keep up with their opponent and lost more and more energy as the clock ticked down. They began almost identically with the same run of the first quarter, but this time it was a 16-2 run to extend their lead to 41-15. In the run Munster received lethal support from Spanish point guard Seikou Jawara who scored 8 points in a row including back to back three´s while ex Oldenburg German Stefan Wess hit a trey as did Weitzel. Munster stepped their game up a level in this span as they defended more aggressively on ball and upped their intensity on offense as the ball movement was better. The German support from Munster was consistent as anyone head coach Gotz Rohdewald threw at Koblenz stepped up. Koblenz got a 8-0 run down the stretch as every now and then Koblenz would execute in fine fashion. Blunt added 5 points and Hanzalek also scored as these 2 players were the only real Guardians who took responsibility on this day. German Julius Ferber delivered a clutch 5-0 run with a trey and lay in in the last seconds giving the guests the commanding 53-27 advantage at the break. “One saw by half-time that the guys were tired. Draper and Bradley were unable to play their games the way they know how to”, stressed Thomas Klein.
Jakob Hanzalek from down town
The third quarter was actually the strongest from the EPG Guardians Koblenz as they scored their most points in a quarter in the game and allowed the least points from Munster. Despite big man David Boehm scoring the first points of the third quarter, it was Munster that threw a 6-0 run in the faces of Koblenz to lead 59-29. American Nick Stampley, German Stefan Wess and Jawara all scored. It seemed like Munster was less aggressive again on ball, but Koblenz were unable to take advantage of it. Both teams began to trade baskets not helping Koblenz´s cause in their come back attempt. Munster got good support from their 2 Americans Hodges and Stampley as they scored twice to lead 65-35 as Koblenz couldn´t make any ground. Blunt and Hanzalek continued to be the only real scoring bright spots as they scored again to still trail 67-37. In between Munster was also to produce some spectacular plays as they had 3 alley-oops on the menu in the game. Their second was a pretty pass from Jawara to Hodges for the dunk. Down the stretch the little dangerous but pooped Michael Bradley hit a three pointer while Blunt made an offensive rebound and put back, but Munster still had the very comfortable 74-42 advantage after 30 minutes. “We just kept playing our game and didn´t take our feet from the gas pedal. You can´t underestimate any team in the Pro B. If you do, it can be dangerous”, warned Jonas Weitzel. “We went to zone in the third quarter which broke their rhythm only a little bit. We were able to conserve our strength. Our gas tank was empty. You could tell that our shots were short”, stated Thomas Klein.
Tyler Groce at the FT line
In the fourth quarter there was no slowing down the Uni Baskets Munster as they played the last quarter as if it was the first with super execution at both ends and some added high light film baskets. The third quarter began with an incredible alley-oop pass from young German Paul Viefhues who averaged 13,0ppg in the NBBL last season and was lauded by Thomas Klein for his play during the game made the perfect very high pass that Tyler Groce threw down with authority. “I felt like the pass was a bit too high. But Tyler can jump so high that it was no problem for him”, smiled Jonas Weitzel. That was the first basket in a 9-0 Munster run to start the last quarter as they extended their lead to 83-42. In the run, Groce would score again as well as Weitzel with an offensive rebound and put back and Viefhues made a pretty lay in. After Bohn made a lay in, Jawara and Schaake traded three pointers as Munster led 86-47. Speedy Jasper Guenther then made an acrobatic lay in shifting gears, making a nice fake and then finger tip lay in. “Guenther can be a magician if he wants to. If you let him play, he will show you plays like that”, stated Jonas Weitzel. Weitzel had found a groove and was just dominating in the paint as he was unstoppable scoring twice while Koblenz big man Aike Bensmann scored 4 points. A few weeks ago, he was balling in the second Regionalliga in Limburg and now was experiencing the Cinderella story in the Pro A. He came to help out an injury plagued team and one really couldn´t expect that much, but he really came through again scoring 4 points just like he did in Bremerhaven 3 days earlier. Henning Schaake also gave great support with 5 points. “I´m really proud of how Bensmann and Schaake stepped in and helped us get through tough times. They were out of their comfort zone and really stepped up. I really appreciate them win or lose”, warned Ty Cockfield. Down the stretch Weitzel added a three pointer and Bradley a lay in before Stefan Wess ended the game with a jumper. “What I really liked was that everyone stepped up for us tonight. A Paul Viefhues who doesn´t play so much showed that he can play at a high level, but just couldn´t show it yet because he didn´t have experience or rhythm”, stressed Jonas Weitzel. “We tried to get back to our principles in the fourth quarter. Now we will rest and wait to get some guys back and then get back to fundamentals”, warned Michael Bradley. The Uni Baskets Munster were led by Jonas Weitzel with 20 points while Seikou Jawara added 14 points and 7 assists while Tyler Groce and Bo Hodges contributed 11 points a piece while the EPG Guardians Koblenz were led by Alin Blunt with 14 points. The Uni Baskets Munster shot 52% from the field and 30% from outside and had 43 rebounds and 10 turnovers while the EPG Guardians Koblenz shot 32% from the field and 14% form outside and had 34 rebounds and 16 turnovers.
Sammy Hunter (206-F-2000, college: Akron, agency: VM Hoops Agency) is a 23 year old 206cm forward from the Bahamas playing his rookie season for KB Trepca Mitrovice (Kosovo-Superliga). He began his career at St Johns college and then played 3 seasons at the University of Mississippi (NCAA) playing a total of 80 games. He then finished at The University of Akron (NCAA) averaging 8.2ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 67.6% and 8.7ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 81.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg.
Thanks Sammy for talking to germanhoops.com. After being in the Bahamas, Mississippi, and Ohio, now your in Kosovo with for KB Trepca Mitrovice (Kosovo-Superliga. Has it been like a culture shock for you with the way of life?
I’ve been a lot of places in a short amount of time throughout my life so one’s basketball is around pretty much and have had no problem adjusting of course I miss my family and friends back home in the Bahamas but it’s always good doing something you love. I just remember my motivation doing what I love.
The team won the double last season and the Super Cup this season. What kind of an experience has it been playing for this organization? What have you enjoyed most about the experience? It’s been an eye-opening experience playing against so many good teams early on in the season with the champions league and FIBa Europe cup. I just try to embrace it and learn as much from Coach as I can.
Do you feel that huge enthusiasm to win within the organization? As an athlete, you want to embrace that pressure of being expected to win all the time but here in the city everyone is rooting for us and the fans are amazing so you definitely feel the pressure to win every game you play especially home games
What kind of an experience has it been playing first in the BCL and now in the Fiba Europe Cup? You have showed that you can be a solid player. How will your game profit most from playing in these leagues? I’m just out there having fun. I love playing this game and showcasing what I can do and I just thank God every day for the opportunity to be playing at this level and among such good teams it’s been an eye-opening experience to what I can do 5,6,7 years down the road.
What has it been like playing with Mohammed Barro? Has he been like a mentor for you? How has he helped you most with your game so far?
He’s a really good big,phenomenal passer reads the short roll well and we talk about other things besides basketball from time to time. He’s been someone to talk to for me with him also being from another foreign country so it’s been good to know. I have someone at my position I can speak with.
What has it been like playing with automatic dime Malik Johnson? How much easier does he make your game? Malik is very fast plays with the high energy and is a good all-around dude in general. He’s already played at high-level so he’s still teaching me stuff I need to learn when it comes to playing in Europe and just reading the pick and roll.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 206cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? Honestly, I wouldn’t compare my game to anybody in the NBA. I like to think of myself as my own player we all have unique stuff about us on the court that make us who we are and I just don’t really do the comparisons. I try to be myself.
You like to shoot the three pointer. How would you describe the development of your three pointer? It seems like your shot selection is very good. Growing up, my shot was in the best, but I worked on it because I always wanted to be able to shoot. Of course we aspire to be good at what we do, but I never thought my three-point shot would get to where it is now.
How would you describe your defensive game? Are you still a bit raw? What kind of a defender are you and what kind of defender so you still want to become? Still working on being more versatile and being able to guard on the perimeter. I see myself as someone who is very vocal on the defensive end and talk to teammates through the right spots.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? Working on improving all aspects of my game more so playing in he post more.
You played at the University of Mississippi (NCAA) from 2019-2022. You never averaged more than 3,0ppg and 11,3 minutes per game. How was the experience for you? What positives could you take from it?
You can always take positives from every situation you have in your life sometimes things don’t go how you want it and that’s called life always remember that it’s not about me. Sometimes somebody else somewhere is struggling with something way worse than my struggles in basketball so I just managed to keep a level ahead.
In your second season you scored 11 points in a huge win over NCAA powerhouse Kentucky. What memories will you always have of that game?
That was a fun time at Ole Miss. It was during Covid and they had a lot of NBA players on that team, but I will always remember that game for sure.
You then played at the The University of Akron (NCAA) averaging 8.2ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 67.6%and 8.7ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 81.8%. Your minutes rose and so did your paly. How did your game grow in these 2 years?
The coaches had confidence in me even when I lacked confidence in myself sometimes I really appreciate Akron and everything they’ve done for me as a player and a person
You had many memorable games like scoring 25 and 26 points back to back against Ball State and Kent State. What was your fondest moment at Akron? The most memorable moment at Akron was the Ball State game because my parents came to see me play and that was my father‘s first time ever watching me play live in person so it was a big deal to me and that was my extra motivation to play that night.
How did head coach John Groce groom and prepare you best for a professional career? He groomed me because he’s a professional in his own right super hard worker super dedicated to what he does. One of the smartest coaches you’ll find and statistical guru. It’s hard not to play hard for him. He brings the energy every day and pushes you with love.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Ali Ali? Me and Ali are close friends. I just talked to him last night we’re tied. We will probably be back at Akron in the summer working out together.
Who was the toughest player that you ever played against on a court that reached the NBA? I got to play against Giannis this summer and it was an experience. I’ll never forget it.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Antavion Collum
Mikal Dawson
Ali Ali
Tye Fagan
Matthew Murrell
Please name your personal NBA Mountrushmore of past or present heads?
Steph Curry
MJ
Kobe
Lebron
Who is your GOAT?
Kobe
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
Didn’t get to see it, but hopefully I watch it here in the near future.
Tyseem Lyles (185-SG-1992, college: Mercy) is a 32 year old 185cm guard from New York playing his 7th professional season and fourth with the CATL Basketball Lowen Erfurt. In Germany he also had previous experience with Eimsbuettler TV Hamburg and PS Karlsruhe. He began his basketball career at Tompkins Cortland Community College (JUCO) and then finished at Mercy College (NCAA2). He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 93-92 win over the RheinStars Cologne.
Congrats Tyseem on the big 93-92 win over the RheinStars. The team now has a 2 game winning streak and has won 3 of the last 4 games. Are the Lowen on the right track now? Yes I feel like we are. Coach Florian Gut paid attention to our defense at practice and installed some new things that has helped us the last games. That push has given us added enthusiasm and we also have been moving the ball better.
The RheinStars came out strong leading 25-12. Kenny Lagab had 10 points and 2 dunks. Did you guys not have him fully on the scouting report? We did have him on the scouting report, but they got a lot of transition baskets. I didn´t know how quick they could score from the inbounds play. That caught us off guard at times. That got them going and gave them added confidence.
In the second quarter, Erfurt bounced back being down early 39-34, How vital was your alley op pass to Lenni Kunzewitsch? Did that energy spark the team? It did. That was a big moment that showed the home crowd and team that we were there to play.
Noah Kamdem was a beast getting many baskets in the second quarter. Does the team realize his worth? He could have been the difference the last years between a title and not when he was injured.
Yes for sure. We know that if he had played more the last years, that that would of made a big difference. Things happen for a reason. We are very happy that he is with us now and we embrace it.
Samuel Nellessen also gave good energy with 2 baskets. How have you observed his development this season?
He has been so good at keeping it simple. That is what makes him so reliable. He is great at on ball defense, cutting and shooting when he is open. What more can you ask from a guy coming from the bench.
The game was tied at 61-61 after 30 minutes. Erfurt continued to fight and stay with the RheinStars. What was key for staying on track?
Before there were times where we got hectic and made unforced turnovers. We stayed calm and made the right reads and just trusted each other.
Ruppert Hennen scored at ease the whole game. Is his mid distance game unstoppable?
I wouldn´t say that. His big man Bjoern Rohwer sets great screens that makes it difficult for us to contain him. I feel like if we play him 1-1, then he isn´t that unstoppable.
Lenni Kunzewitsch made a huge block which led to your three pointer. How key was that for the Lowen´s route to overtime? I think that this was the play of the game. That gave us great burst of energy. We really needed that, because we were so exhausted.
The overtime was very exciting and went back to back. Paul Albrecht made a key block to lead to your winning free throws. How accurate is it to say that Pail Albrecht is Mr everything?
That is exactly what it is. He is always rebounding the ball well and he makes the right read every single time. He is always helping with his hook shoot. He is Mr everything.
What is going through your mind when your standing there and have to make the free throws. Is everything around you totally locked out?
I seriously like to embrace the moment. I tune into the crowd. These are the moments you dreamed as a kid. I take my time. You don´t get many moments like that.
The only negative aspect was the rebounding. Is that a continued work in team progress?
Yes for sure. You can never stop getting better. Rohwer really made it tough for us to rebound. But we showed against them that we could go toe to toe with tough players. I feel like that gave us added self-confidence. That will help us continue to make steps in our rebounding in the future.
The defense continues to be a work in progress. Do you see any defensive identity trying to be formed?
I think so. We are still trying to find a way as a defensive team. Coach Flo always wants extreme on ball pressure. But that is difficult when you play 40 minutes. We have to find a way to become more consistent. We haven´t found our groove yet, but we will never give up. I feel like we will get better with time.
You played 43 minutes. Did you feel like a marathon man? I don´t know, because I have never run a marathon. I felt satisfied after the win for getting rewarded for playing so hard.
You had 26 points and shot 11/35. That was the most shots that you have taken in your pro career. Was it just one of those games where you really felt the need to have to shoot more than usual?
When I went into the locker room at the break, I went in with my head down. I missed many shots and realized that I had put a lot of pressure on myself needing to perform with high efficiency. I knew I had to clear my mind and put aside my own goals and get the job done as best as I could to get the win. I didn´t feel an extra need to shoot more. I understand that I have to take open shots and don´t complicate anything. When I see daylight, I always need to shoot.
Your three pointer continues to be your big weapon, but you also have a nice drive and mid range game. Could you imagine taking more 2 point range shots or is it always what the defense gives you? That’s is a result that has happened over the years from coaches telling me my mid range shot is a bad one. This year it´s all about getting back to myself and taking mid range shots. I took a crucial mid range shot late in the fourth quarter
You next play Orange Academy. They have had a solid start. What will be key to getting the win? We have to stick together and really buckle down on defense. We know that if we want to continue this win streak, we will have to be very focused and be concentrated. If we do that then we can win against anyone.
Landrius Horton (193-G-1998, college: Columbus St.) is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Alabama playing his 5th professional season and first with Keravnos Strovolou (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League). Last season he played with Anorthosis Ammohostou (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) averaging 15.8ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 79.7%. In the 2022-2023 season he played with KFUM Jamtland Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 13.0ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 79.2%. In the 2021-2022 season he palyed with KK TFT Skopje (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 17.7ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 70.9%; and in the Balkan League averaged 19.8ppg), 5.2rpg, 1.6apg, 1.5spg, FGP-2 (68.3%), 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 70.2%. He played his rookie season with KK TFT Skopje (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 13.2ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 65.9%; and in the Balkan League) averaged 11.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 62.5%. He began his basketball career at Austin high schoo and then played at Lurleen B Community College. He then played 2 seasosn with Columbus State University (NCAA2) averaging 15.5ppg, 9.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 73.6%and 17.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 82.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig.,
Thanks Landrius for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with Keravnos Strovolou (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) and second in Cyprus. What kind of experience has it been playing for this organization? It’s been great playing here so far great organization. Definitely has been a learning experience.
Keravnos Strovolou (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) has won 6 titles in the last 2 seasons. How big is the ambition and desire to win titles within the whole organization?
Most definitely the goal for the team. The team has never won back to back so definitely will be a great accomplishment for the organization if it is achieved.
Your playing for Greek legend Michalis Kakiouzis. How much of his winning genes trickles down on the team? What have you appreciated most about his coaching philosophy?
It always good playing for a coach that has been a player. He understands how it is being a player and he incorporates it into his coaching. Which I think is a big strength is his coaching style.
The club has a lot of experience. What has it been like sharing the back court with Josh Hagins? How do you guys compliment each other best? Man Josh has to be one of the funniest teammates I have had. Great guy on and off the court. Very experienced player and knows basketball and definitely has been a veteran presence.
The club has real experience in the front court with Crockett and Taylor. What really stands out most with their games? One thing that really stands out with both of them are that they are both really athletic and they play off each other very well especially now that this is the second year for them to play together they really have good chemistry on and off the floor
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would fit the description best? I think the best player that can describe my game would be Jalen Williams from OKC.
You’re a guard that can score and rebound the ball well, but what other attributes does your game have? I think some attribute that I also have is passing and playing in the passing lanes.
You can fill the stat sheet well. How big is versatility in your game? I think it helps my game because I can play multiple positions and also guard different positions.
You have shot the ball really well in the last 3 years. Where would you describe the development of your three pointer at the moment? Could you imagine hitting the 40% mark more in the future? Most definitely the goal to shoot over 40% every year. I have been working on my three pointer since my first year playing professionally just because of the style of play in Europe as a whole. I get kind of hard to contribute offensively if you can’t shoot.
Your also an aggressive defender. Would you describe yourself as a defender now that can make an impact at the defensive end? Yes I have always considered myself a good defender.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? I think I need to work on playing lower to the ground and reading and playing off the ball screen better.
Last season you played with Anorthosis Ammohostou (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) averaging 15.8ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 79.7%. How tough was being swept by Keravnos after beating them right before the playoffs. What did you learn from that series?
Out of that series I realized that when you are trying to make a run in the playoffs health has to be your friend. Really comes down to having the best luck the longest.
2 seasons ago you played with KFUM Jamtland Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 13.0ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 79.2%.What was it like playing with big man RT Guinn? How much of a motivation was he for you? Could you imagine playing as long as him into your forties? Rt was a good guy helped me throughout the season on just becoming better as a player. I’m not sure if I would like to play that long but definitely was inspiring to see at the age that he could still compete at a high level.
In the playoffs you were down to Norrkoping 3-1 and came back to force a 7th game. Were you ever able to rewatch that game 7 again? I still haven’t watch that game until this day.
You played your first 2 seasons with KK TFT Skopje (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 13.2ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 65.9%; and in the Balkan League11.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 62.5% while in your second season averaged 17.7ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 70.9%; and in the Balkan averaged 19.8ppg), 5.2rpg, 1.6apg, 1.5spg, FGP-2 (68.3%), 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 70.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?
My first week I arrived in Skopje, there was an earthquake. I’m from Alabama we don’t experience things like that and I think that’s was the first time I really realized that I was far away from home
In your second season you won the Super Cup and was teammates with Mike Nwubuzor. What made that second season so special and how did you and Mike mesh on the court best? Mike my guy we still communicate and keep up with each other. He is a very good player. That team was very family oriented off the court and it helped us piece the puzzle together to win the cup.
You won the Balkan scoring league title. What does a title like that mean to you? You competed against many different countries and showed you could adapt to any team. That was an accomplishment that was very exciting but it would have been better if we would have won the league.
You began your basketball career at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College (NJCAA). Every guy that I have interviewed that played in JUCO or CC have said that it was a real grind but one they wouldn´t have traded in for the world. How was it for you? Man Juco was an eye opener that prepared me for my pro career. I’m a true believer in if you can make it there you can make it anywhere.
You then played 2 seasons at Columbus State University (NCAA2) averaging 15.5ppg, 9.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 73.6% and 17.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 82.5%. How did your game grow and develop best in these 2 years? Once I left Juco and got to Columbus state it helped me become more complete as a player. The competition level was a lot better because of the strength of the conference I played in. Definitely helped me become more physical and aggressive in my style of play.
You had some tough loses like the Peach Belt final to Lander 76-73, but also huge wins. What was your favorite moment on the court? I think my favorite moment was when I hit a buzzer beater three to advance to the conference championship game.
How did head coach Robert Moore groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
I think just him as a person and being brutally honest helping prepare me for not just basketball but world. He called things how he saw it.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Bryant Givens? Me and BG never played 1-1, but if we did I would definitely win and I’m sure if you asked him he would say he would win.
Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA? I would probably say my high school teammate Javan Johnson.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Cj jackson, Karl Ivey, Chris Horton, Gary Talton, Phil Carr
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore? Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal
Who is your GOAT? LeBron James hands down.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I don’t think the remake was that bad but I could definitely live without it.
Alexander Lagerman (202-SG-2004) is a 20 year old 202cm shooting guard playing his first season with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. Last season he played with the wiha Panthers Schwenningen (ProB) playing16 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 61.6%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 72.7%. He began his basketball career with the Fraport Skyliners in the JBBL (U-16) and also played 4 Pro B games and in 2022-2023 season in the NBBL averaged :21.2ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 78.3%. He spoke to eurobasket.com after the big 93-92 win over Wurzburg.
Congrats Alex on the big 93-92 win in Wurzburg. How big was this win after the tough loss against Ludwigsburg? This was a very important win. We had good phases during the game. We weren´t focused at the end as we allowed them to go on a run. We almost gave them the game. We weren´t consistent for 40 minutes and were lucky that we could turn the game around at the end.
How proud are you that the team stuck together and won the game despite being down in crunch-time after having a big lead in the fourth quarter? I´m really proud of how the team stuck together, but we know that we have to get better. I believe that we have shown a few times this season that we can come back and win. It is a skill that we have. We always play to the end.
The team is 3-0 on the road. How do explain this top play on the road?
We are playing well on the road this season. I don´t know what it is, but maybe the match ups that we have had so far. We also have shot the ball well on the road which has helped.
Was the team extra motivated after the tough loss to Ludwigsburg? Was it tough not to underestimate them at 0-5?
We were very motivated to win and I feel like we didn´t underestimate them. They have nothing to lose and have good players. Despite some guys were missing, they still had a very good group on the court. Even if they are in last place, they aren´t a bad team. They have a lot of potential.
You got off to a rapid start with 2 back to back three´s. It seems like you are becoming more aggressive with every new game.
I just try to play solid and make the right decisions and don´t want to force anything. I feel like I become more aggressive when I know I have that advantage,
Rhondorf had a good lead, but basketball is a game of runs and Wurzburg came back. How tough was it containing Calvin Wishart?
He was hard to defend. He was also my man at times. He was very quick and could drive, shoot and find his teammates. He was my toughest match up so far this season.
In the second quarter the Dragons had a good lead, but once again allowed Wurzburg to come back as the game was deadlocked at 47-47 at the break. Why was it so difficult to keep the lead? We just weren´t consistent enough. We had some good minutes and some bad minutes.
In the third quarter the Dragons exploded for 31 points. The offense was clicking. What was working better on defense?
We had the right mind set coming out of half-time. We controlled the game better then. We rebounded the ball well and gave no more open or easy looks to them.
In the fourth quarter Wurzburg scored 31 points and crept back. German Christian Skladanowski took pressure off Wishart and scored basket after basket. What was so tough in slowing him down?
I know him since the U-14 so I know what he can do on the court. He is very long, athletic and physical. He uses his body well and is dangerous around the rim. He is also strong defensively.
Wishart made one free throw for the 98-97 win with 3 seconds to go. Was that last touch down pass part of the plan? What was going through your head?
During the free throws, we actually planed the last play. We would have 2 guys sprint down the wings and a football touch down pass would be I had a slight lead on my defender going down the floor. Rahn made the perfect pass. I had separation with my defender as my thigh bumped him. I caught the ball around the free throw line and shot it. thrown.
The pass from Marco Rahn reminded me off the pass last season from Nils Leonhart to Trevian Bell for the buzzer beater win over Rhondorf. Did you know the ball would go in?
It was a pressure situation and this shot was easier to take obviously than one farther away. I always have those instincts when I release if it will go in or not. I knew my shot would go in.
Was that your first buzzer beater in your career? I had one in the U-14, but as a pro this was my first.
Janne Muller was so calm after you hit the shot just sticking his finger in the air. How was the atmosphere after the shot later in the locker room? Do you have to get donuts?
No not yet, but I think that I will have to get donuts. Everyone was hyped and jumped on me. In the locker room we talked rational and knew we come out and play like that again.
Was this win a perfect preparation for the top game next weekend against Leitershofen? This win was huge moving forward to next game in Leitershofen. We still have to correct some things so we can play better in Leitershofen. It is always a great atmosphere there with the fans. It won´t be an easy game.
Bryce Hamilton (193-G-2000, college: UNLV) is a 23 year old 193cm guard from Pasadena, California playing his third professional season and first in Germany with the Rostock Seawolves. He played the last 2 seasons with the South Bay Lakers (NBA G League) averaging 14.8ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 69.8% and 16.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 52.0%, 3FGP: 37.1%, FT: 68.2%, in Apr.’24 moved to ASP Promitheas Patras (Greece-GBL) averaging 12.1ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 76.9%. He began his basketball career at Pasadena high school and then played at University of Nevada – Las Vegas (NCAA) from 2018-2022 and as a senior averaged 22.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 76.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the 83-66 win over the Frankfurt Skyliners.
Congrats on the massive 83-66 win over the Frankfurt Skyliners. How good does it feel getting the win after having lost 3 of the last 4 games? It felt good. We had a big emphasis on getting the win. We had lost some games at home and wanted to get on the winning track again. We beat a very good team, but we know that we still have to get better.
Rostock had a strong first quarter winning it 23-16. The game began with 4 three pointers. Were you expecting that?
No not really. But these things happen during the course of a game. We knew going in that they were a good offensive team. But we were confident continuing that we would be able to wear them down.
You nailed 3 in a row. Were you already feeling good going in or did those 3 three´s surprise you a bit?
My shots felt good. I have a lot of confidence in the work that I put in. I always have that mentality when I shoot that the ball will always go in.
You have been a pretty solid three point shooter since your NCAA days, but this season it´s been incredible. Have you been in the gym a lot more or what do you credit your hot shooting to? I think that my big focus has been staying in the gym and just being consistent. My 3 point percentage has really gone up in the last years. I trust the work that I put in and have a lot of confidence in my shot.
Godwin Omenaka also gave good energy and had 3 blocks. How important has his play been this season?
He is super important for us. His presence scares opponents when they drive to the rim. He blocks shots and effects where shots will go. He is also a great lob threat. It has been a big pleasure playing with him.
Malik Parson gave Frankfurt big time energy with 11 unanswered points. That guy is a walking bucket. He had a Euroleague offer last week, but Frankfurt didn´t let him go. Was that about as good as letting some steam out to let possible frustration loose? Yeh probably. He is a great player though. He really got hot against us. He will have a great season.
Is it Parson´s quickness the most difficult part in containing him, or his shiftiness and finding his spots? Yes he is very shifty and you never know where he will go. You just try to do your best and hope he misses. He can score at any level and doesn´t see a bad shot.
The game remained tight in the third quarter but Rostock kept the lead. What adjustments did the team make on the defensive end? We just stuck to the game plan. We knew that with time they would miss shots. We were defending tough and forcing them to tough shots.
What did coach : Przemyslaw Frasunkiewicz tell you guys to do going into the fourth quarter? You only allowed 9 points?
He just told us to keep doing what we were already doing. We know that we are a physical and great defensive team. We take a lot of pride in it. We knew that we had to finish the game well.
In the fourth quarter Rostock stepped up with big buckets from Schwartz and you early, but overall the whole team chipped in. What was key for controlling the fourth quarter? We did a good job maintaining the lead and playing great defense. We moved the ball well and got out on transition.
Rostock controlled the boards and had only 6 turnovers. What was the biggest positive that the team got from this win? Our togetherness. We just had to lock in and not fold, but stay composed.
German Robin Amaize chipped in with 16 points and 8 boards. What do you appreciate most about his game? I love his game. He is a great player that plays with great energy. He can do it all. He guards the other team´s top player and hit shots on offense and can playmake. He is only getting better. It has been a pleasure playing with him.
How vital is it having a player like D´Shawn Schwartz by your side who can take the pressure off you at times? He has also been a big help. He always gives great energy and is a tough match up. Even when he isn´t scoring, he brings other important things to the team to help win.
How key is it having a big guy like Philipp Hartwich on the court? What have you appreciated most about his game? He is a great rim protector that can block shots. He is also a lob threat and great passer.
You had your highest point total in the BBL with 27 points. You have needed no adjustment coming from the G-League. What has been your secret to being able to adjust so well? It has been just being confident in my game. I know that every game is tough, but I get the trust from my coach and teammates.
You shot 5/14 in the first 3 games and now are 15/31 in the last 4 games. Have you had more reps or has it been the extreme focus coach wants you to have while taking reps? Coach has been a big help. He wants us super focused when we are taking reps. I have been totally locked in during shooting.
What was your impression of the Frankfurt Skyliners. This is a very critical stage in their season as they have many road games in a row. Their season could be made or broke. They are a really good team. They played us tough and at times when we tried to pull away, they continued to play hard until the end. They have enough guys that can score. They may have a tough span now, but anything can happen in this league. Anyone can beat anyone.
You next play top team Telekom Baskets Bonn. How vital will it be getting a win as after that the team has a longer break?
This will be a huge test for us to see where we stand against a top team. We respect them, but won´t come out lightly against them. We will play to win.
Yesterday was Halloween. What was your fondest Halloween moment? I won a Halloween contest. I was Batman.
D’Shawn Schwartz (199-F-1999, college: GMU) is a 25 year old 198cm forward from Colorado playing his third professional season and first in Germany with the Rostock SeaWolves. Last season he played with Le Mans Sarthe Basket (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 7.8ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 84.8%; and in the BCL averaged 10.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 82.1%. He played his rookie season with Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul 2nd team (Turkey-TBL) averaging 17.8ppg, 6.6rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 73.4%He began his basketball career with Sand Creek high school and then played 4 years at the University of Colorado (NCAA) and one season at George Mason University (NCAA). He spoke to eurobasket after the 83-66 win over the Frankfurt Skyliners.
Congrats on the massive 83-66 win over the Frankfurt Skyliners. How good does it feel getting the win after having lost 3 of the last 4 games? This win feels really good. There are a lot of really good teams in the BBL and teams playing in European competitions. We respect all teams, but we also feel like we can hang with anyone.
Rostock had a strong first quarter winning it 23.16. The game began with 4 three pointers. Were you expecting that? We didn´t shoot the ball well in the last game. It is always fun when 2 teams are clicking like that on offense.
Bryce Hamilton nailed 3 in a row. How vital was that start? Those three pointers seemed to set the tone. Bryce played incredible. He has been playing great the whole season. I think he hasn´t gotten respect from teams, but has put teams on notice now. Him starting off the game so well was huge for us.
He has been a pretty solid three point shooter since his NCAA days, but this season it´s more. Has he been in the gym a lot or what do you credit his hot shooting to?
He has a really stoic mentality. When his shots don´t fall, he never wavers with his confidence or gets down on himself or makes faces after. He just keeps shooting and trusts his work.
Godwin Omenaka also gave good energy and had 3 blocks. How important has his paly been this season? He also was incredible. When he is at his best, that takes us from good to great. He does so much on defense and gives us so much energy. He is a very forceful dunker.
Malik Parson gave Frankfurt big time energy with 11 unanswered points. That guy is a walking bucket. He had a Euroleague offer last week, but Frankfurt didn´t let him go. Was that about as good as letting some steam out to let possible frustration loose?
I was telling a guy on the bench that this is only his second season as a pro, but he already has an incredible knack for finding the whistle and getting to the rim. It was really impressive to see him score like that.
Is it Parson´s quickness the most difficult part in containing him, or his shiftiness and finding his spots? I think his biggest strength is just knowing how to use his body. He seeks out contact to get fouled or create space to get to the rim
The game remained tight in the third quarter but Rostock kept the lead. What adjustments did the team make on the defensive end?
I think that we were just solid. They made tough shots the entire game. Our energy was enough to break them. Our focus was that we couldn´t let them stick around and steal a win on the road.
What did coach Przemyslaw Frasunkiewicz tell you guys to do going into the fourth quarter? You only allowed 9 points?
I think what helped was that Parsons slowed down and we got early stops. We did a good job buckling down on defense early and got stops. That allowed us to get out on transition and break away.
In the fourth quarter Rostock stepped up with big buckets from you and Hamilton early, but overall the whole team chipped in. What was key for controlling the fourth quarter? You have to hit shots, but the fourth quarter is all about making plays. We showed the will to finish the game and dig in on defense. We got great shots on offense.
Rostock controlled the boards and had only 6 turnovers. What was the biggest positive that the team got from this win?
I think that we were more intentional on offense. Chemnitz switched a lot and we weren´t as decisive with them. Frankfurt did the same, but we were more decisive against them. That was our biggest growth in the game.
German Robin Amaize chipped in with 16 points and 8 boards. What do you appreciate most about his game?
He is a big offensive player. I like when he is aggressive, then he opens space and helps us on transition. He is crafty and has experience and is a vocal leader.
What was your impression of the Frankfurt Skyliners. This is a very critical stage in their season as they have many road games in a row. Their season could be made or broke. I think that they need Kamaka Hepa. I played against him in school. He would give them more versatility at the 4 position. It is tough when your in a hole and to get out. We will see what happens.
Your having a great season in the BBL. Tonight was the first game that you didn´t score in double figures. How would you define your role?
I believe that I´m one of the go to guys together with Bryce Hamilton. We can be that 1-2 punch. I´m playing the 4 and like the pick and pop and spacing the floor. That´s my bread and butter.
You had a solid season in the athletic France Pro A. Which league would you say is better skill-wise that or the BBL? France was more athletic and up and down play and the defensive coverages were a bit different as well. I like the BBL. I think that there is more decisive decision making in the BBL.
Your shooting an incredible 54% from down town, the best ever in your career? What do you credit this incredible start to?
I put in a lot of work in the summer and now in practice and after practice. Our coach doesn´t let us talk during shooting. We are very focused. He stresses not to worry about how many reps we have, but too be more focused and intentional.
On what areas of your game do you want to make the next step in this season? I would love to become that big time contributor on a winning team. I want to be consistently be counted on on being a go to guy.
You played a season with Tristan Da Silver at Colorado. If someone had told you in 2020 that he would be in the NBA 4 years later what would you have said? For sure. He is an incredible phenomenal player. We had Jabari Walker and the only reason Tristan played behind him his freshman year was because he would go to the NBA the following year. That paved the way for him. We also had another young player Luke O´Brien who also will get drafted. We always picked our favorite freshman. Our point guard always said Tristan is the GOAT and will go to the NBA.
Yesterday was Halloween. What was your fondest Halloween moment?
I remember having a cool party with the AAU team. We were like 10 or 11. It was always fun getting together where all we cared about then was video games and candy.
Even when I´m on vacation, I can´t totally turn off the basketball switch. I will always find something to do in the sparse time that I have during holiday. Over the autumn holidays, in Germany, my family and I took a short 4 day trip to the Saarland part of Germany in the western part which is close to France and Luxemburg. I usually check if there are any players playing in the area I´m in, so there could be a possibility of a friendly get together. On the first day, we visited the incredible Saar Polygon in Saarlouis and I just couldn´t refrain from meeting German Regionalliga legend Ricky Easterling. I had covered him many times in the last decade and interviewed him 14 times and gave him 2 article titles from game reports. It was always a pleasure to talk with him and watch him demonstrate his mid range shot to perfection. We also wanted to visit the pretty old French city Metz. Here I also couldn´t pass up checking the roster and saw that they actually played in the NM1 which is the third division. Indeed there was a player on the club that I knew with Michael Nwabuzor (188-G-1996, college: NMHU). I had never ever met him in my life, but interviewed him 7 times in his career. Last season, I was denied seeing him play for the first time as he was released early in the season by the Artland Dragons and couldn´t see him play in Frankfurt. But now we would finally meet. My wife let me off at the training facility in which an old aircraft hanger was used and saw the team practice. Nwabuzor was laboring a minor injury and getting treatment. We spoke about the game and his future. After practice we posed for pics and he drove me back top the center of town so I could do some sightseeing with my family. Our first interview had been in 2019 when he was laboring in the German Regionalliga with BG Dorsten. It is always better late than never to meet. I will always associate him with Lebron James when I hear his name, because he scored 17 points against him in a Drew League game in 2022 in Los Angeles. “Yes that is true. Better late than never. It´s nice to meet you finally. I associate you with eurobasket when I hear your name”, stressed Michael Nwabuzor.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Michale Nwabuzor in Metz, France
Before coming to Metz this season, he began last season in the German Pro A with the Artland Dragons. Last season his stay with the Artland Dragons was short as he played only 7 games averaging 9.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.6apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 36.0%, 3FGP: 22.2%, FT: 81.0%. The club didn´t have a great start. Was he possibly seen as having been the scapegoat for the team´s misery? “I don’t think I was a scapegoat, I think the team just got off to a rough start and I happened to be the lead guard. It’s part of the business and they felt like a change needed to be made”, stressed Michael Nwabuzor. Ifeel like the team gave up too soon on his game. They brought in Buzz Anthony who had a great season and helped the team remain in the league. I definitely think the team could have had a turnaround with him still remaining. “ I definitely felt I could have made a difference”, warned Michael Nwabuzor. He was fortunate to have been able to play together with basketball dino Brandon Thomas who at age 40 still plays like he is a young buck at the age of 30. “BT! I Iremember BT as a knockdown shooter and competitor always giving some wisdom. I learned a lot from him in my stint in Artland. He was a real Professional”, remembered Michael Mwabuzor. It then took him numerous months to find a gig and that off-time where there are no games, is a real difficult time for every player. It can really play with your mind. “It took a long time and it definitely was a tough time because I believed I was ready to help a team immediately in the same league, if not somewhere else. Sometimes that is just how it goes but in this same process you can’t lose faith in your game or your ability to get a job. The time while waiting built up my mental fortitude in a way that cant be accessed without going through the adversity”, said Michael Nwabuzor. He then found a new team in Africa with Bangui Sporting Club (Central Africa-D1) averaging 8.0ppg, 5.3rpg, 5.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 66.7%. “My experience with Bangui SC in the BAL was my second year playing in this league. This experience was very different from my first year where I had more of a scoring role. Overall, I think I would have enjoyed it just a bit more if we won more games but I was grateful to be playing after waiting for so long”, added Michael Nwabuzor. He was teammates with versatile Curtis Hollis who played his last game in Europe in January 2020 and since then never returned back until this season having made a name for himself in Canada. Why didn´t a player with his abilities return sooner? “ Curt’s game fits any market, just have to find the right situation for him and I think he has a good chance right now while playing in Finland.”, commented Michael Nwabuzor.
This season the prolific scorer who would take himself over a Brandon Thomas in a battle of 1-1 is having a new challenge in France with Metz Basket Club (France-NM). The team is very new having been founded in 2020 and moved up from the N2 division last season. I was shocked when I saw he was playing in division 3 France, but hey talented guards seem to be on every corner in Europe. “, I feel like I was overlooked but everybody is overlooked. I just have to continue to showcase my talents, the right club will come”, expressed Michael Nwabuzor. Currently the team is 2-4 and he had a minor injury and will be back in action soon. The NM-1 league is definitely a league that can compete with third divisions in other countries. “N-1 basketball is competitive and respectable basketball that has many legit professionals. I think that because it’s a 3rd division it’s overlooked but good ball is being played”, stressed Michael Nwabuzor. His role is exactly what it has been everywhere else he has played which is scoring. “My role is more than just scoring. Playmaking, playing defense, being a leader are some of the others”, said Michael Nwabuzor. You find really skilled players in the NM-1 league and he has 2 really talented teamamtes with French guard Etienne Ory and American Amar Smith who are a big part of the team. “Etienne and I create a lot of open shots for each other. Always nice to have good chemistry with your backcourt mate. He likes to shoot and set the table while I like to create, shoot and score. Amar extremely valuable. He’s our paint protector, best rebounder and one of our main scoring options. A player with those talents and responsibilities is always valuable to a team”, stated Michael Nwabuzor. As the ex University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (NCAA) guard is driving me back to the city, we talk about basketball and how his grind has been. He sees himself now in his prime and is still so hungry to keep moving up the basketball ladder. His 2 biggest goals are one´s that many players share. “ I would say, win as many games as possible and be playing in Pro A or Pro B next year”, warned Michael Nwabuzor. His team´s goal is to stay in the league. If he can help accomplish that and put up big stats, then I´m sure he will get a new opportunity next season in a higher league. I would like to see him get a second chance in Germany again in the Pro A or even easyCredit BBL. This guy can definitely play and in pre season exploded for 28 points in a game against French Pro A team Nancy where he was the best man on the floor which had ex NBA player Chris Clemons and talented Isaiah Washington who played 2 seasons of BBL in Germany with Frankfurt and Wurzburg. No matter what happens, he will just continue to grind, because that is what he has always done in his pro career overseas. “The love for the grind, the ups and downs of it are still there if not stronger. I thank God for allowing me to still be able to perform at a high level”, warned Michael Nwabuzor.
Toto Fagbenle (206-F-2001, college: Coppin St.) is a 23 year old 206cm forward that is playing for the Caledonia Gladiators this season. In England he got experience playing for Christs College Finchley and Nottingham Trent University (NBL D2). He then played 2 seasons in the States at Morgan State University (NCAA) averaging 2.6ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.1spg and with Coppin State University (NCAA) averaging 5.3ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 49.3%, FT: 56.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg.
Thanks Toto for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with the Caledonia Gladiators (SLB). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about playing for this organization?
Thanks for having me! It’s been an amazing experience. I’ve been welcomed with open arms from coaches to players which has made it even more enjoyable. It’s completely different from college and it’s your full-time job now so I’ve still got to get used to that. I’ve enjoyed playing freely. In past years I feel like I haven’t been able to play freely and play to my strengths but I feel like I can do it here and ultimately contribute to the team.
After playing the last 2 years in the NCAA, how do you feel did your game grow in those 2 years?
I feel like I have improved my all around game, from defense to offence. I have also gained more confidence which is a big help in a players development/growth. I would also like to say I can jump a lot higher.
The Gladiators have a lot of depth and talent. What exactly is your role on the team? I would like to say my role on the team is to be a high energy two way player. Be in the right place at the right time and make the right play. Whether it’s when the ball is in my hands, off ball or on defense. Space the floor, attack the rim aggressively, get steals and blocks and rebounds, that’s my role.
What has it been like being teammates with Trevond Barnes? Is he like a mentor for you? How has he helped your game most?
Man it’s been great! That’s really big bro. I spend a lot of time with him off the court as we live together so I’ve really been able to get to know him. He’s always giving me advice for basketball and life which has definitely helped me boost my confidence for basketball games. He’s a great guy!
Another talented player at your position is Tanner Stuckman? Has his nonstop energy infected your play at times? Tanner is also a great guy. Really funny but knows when and when not to be serious. He can shoot really well so I love guarding him as I feel like it challenges me. I wouldn’t say infectious as I’ve naturally got high energy but it’s definitely infectious to the team.
What has it been like playing for legend Gareth Murray? What do you respect most about his basketball philosophy and how has he helped you most with your game this season?
It’s been a really great experience. Coach G is of course a legend so I’m really grateful playing under him and learning from him. You can tell he’s been in the game for a while as it shows through his coaching which is cool to see. He’s definitely helped me by boosting my confidence for sure. He’s given me words of wisdom which have helped me grow day by day.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 206cm forward. If you had to compare your game most to a NBA player who would make the best fit?
I’ve been asked this question a lot. I would like to say either Pascal Siakam or Andrew Wiggins. A lot of people compare me to Kevin Durant which is a great compliment but that’s one of my favourite players ever so it’s hard accepting that.
You can score and rebound, but what would you classify as your biggest strength on the court?
My biggest strength for sure is my pride on defense. I find it insulting when someone scores on me so I love to get defensive stops, even if they don’t show on the stats. I would also say my athleticism. That’s quite a strength of mine.
What kind of a defender are you and is becoming a type of rim protector a goal of yours?
A high energy defender who loves playing defense. I love to play defense, especially on quick guards as it hones my agility and reaction times. I’m quite quick for my height which is very helpful in playing defense. Being a rim protector is a great addition to a player’s arsenal but I would say my goal is to become a great all around defender who can not only protect the rim but get steals and stops on defense.
What do you feel is still an area of your game that is off the radar for everyone?
My shooting and ball handling ability. I’ve been fine tuning my jump shot for a couple months and I feel like I’m starting to get more consistent/confident with my shot. On the other hand, my ball handling ability is not seen as I’ve not really needed to use it in game but this year I feel like everyone will see that I can handle the ball quite well.
On what other areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game?
My shooting and finishing through contact. Before I played in college in America, I used to shoot a lot in the UK and then when I got to America, it wasn’t really my role so I hardly practiced on that which naturally made my shooting decline so I’ve been working a lot on building it back up. And for finishing through contact, I just want to get more posterisers so been working on that.
You played at Morgan State in 2022-2023 for playing 16 games averaging 2.6ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.1spg. How was this season for you? You only averaged only 13,4 minutes. What positives could you take of that season?
Yes. My first year in college was definitely one to remember. It sucks that it was cut short due to unseen circumstances but it was not taken for granted. I learnt that no matter who you are or who you think you are, you’ve got to work your butt off to play. You can’t be lackadaisical or nonchalant. There’s hundreds of players that are dying to be in your position so it’s really just given me a different outlook on life in general which I appreciate every day.
Your best game was in a blow out against Lynchburg scoring 14 points and registering 6 steals. Was this one of those games where you felt like you had arrived in the NCAA? I remembered how I felt after that game. It felt good playing well that game but I didn’t feel like I had arrived in the NCAA as it wasn’t a conference game so there were still bigger challenges ahead. It was a great team win nonetheless!
What kind of an experience was it playing against top school Arizona? You lost by 25 points, but you played 17 minutes? The atmosphere was crazy. I believe that was the biggest stadium I’ve played in. I played against some NBA level players which really showed me the point I was at in my career and how to grow from it. So I learnt a lot from playing against them.
Last season you played with Coppin State University (NCAA)playing 17 games averaging 5.3ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 49.3%, FT: 56.4%. How did your game grow in this season?
I was more accustomed to the college style of play and understood my role on that team more which meant I was more comfortable. I definitely became more physical and used my athleticism more to my strengths in comparison to other years.
You had some really good games at Coppin. What memories will you always have playing against you ex school Morgan State losing 89-86. You had a good game with 9 points, 6 rebounds,2 steals and 3 blocks?
I really wanted to win that game badly especially since it was against my former team. I remember talking to a couple of players from Morgan mid game and trash talking and making jokes which was a cool little experience. I made life long friendships at Morgan so it’s always love.
How did head coach Larry Stewart help your game so you could come back to Europe for the next step?
Coach Stew helped a lot. He was adamant on me playing to my potential and playing hard especially since it was my last year in college. So he helped me to play harder each and every play.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Khali Horton? Me and Khali never really had a 1-1 in practice but that’s my guy. I would always take me over anyone however, that’s just my mindset.
Who was the greatest player that you ever faced on the court that was in the NBA?
I don’t think I’ve played against anyone that’s in the NBA to my knowledge but if the WNBA counts, the greatest player is my sister Temi Fagbenle. She’s a bucket.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
That’s a tough one. In no order, I’ll say Malik Miller, Damarni Vellinor, Blake Bowman, Will Thomas and Matthew Disu. They’re just the first to come to mind.
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? I might get hate for this but: Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, LeBron James and Kobe Bryant. Kobe and Shaq are interchangeable.
Who is your GOAT?
Basketball player? Stephen Curry and I’ll stand on that. GOAT in life? The creator, God.
German Hoops 