Ty Cockfield Jr. (183-PG-1996, college: Arkansas St., agency: BIG) is a 183cm point guard that is playing his 4th professional season and first in Germany with Pro A team EPG Guardians Koblenz. Last season he played with Proton Cable Prizreni (Kosovo-Superliga) averaging 18,2ppg, 4,5rpg, 4,8apg and 1,1spg. In 2021-2022 he played with KB Trepca Mitrovice (Kosovo-Superliga) averaging 15.4ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 25.5%, FT: 81.7%. He played his rookie season with at BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers (Austria-2.Bundesliga) averaging 22.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.6apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 87.0%. He began his basketball career at Johnson high school and then played at Stetson University (NCAA) averaging 7.1ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 83.3%. He then played at Georgia Highlands College (JUCO) averaging 16.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.2apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 78.1%. He then finished at Arkansas State University (NCAA) averaging 15.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 78.2% and in his senior year averaged 22.4ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 82.0%. He spoke togermanhoops.com after the massive 102-85 road win in Bochum.
Congrats Ty on the huge 102-85 win in Bochum. Was this the biggest win of the season?
Yes it was especially due to the circumstances and us fighting to stay in the league. We want to end the season with a positive feeling and want to show everyone that we got better.
How tough were the last months? The team was 1-15 in 2025. Did you ever feel like the team lost faith in being able to win again this season? At some point yes, we also had spurts where we believed we could win games. We have been fighting to win and we knew that we would eventually win again.
The only bad news is that Artland also won. Is that win maybe a blessing in disguise to keep the Guardians on their toes going into the last game? The Artland win makes this game very important for us again instead of it just being another game. We have that win or go home mentality.
With what kind of a mind set did you to Bochum after the tough lost at home against Trier. Was it more than just that we have nothing to lose mentality? We had more than just nothing to lose mentality. We had everything to lose. We wanted to prove to the city of Koblenz and the league that we can win. We showed tonight that if we put the pieces together, we can compete with anyone.
How pumped were the Guardians going in wanting revenge for the loss against Bochum in the first game?
We were very pumped for this game. Guys were talking about how badly we needed to win before the game. We were so fired up and everybody had so much energy. We felt like we were going to win on the way to Bochum. It was a beautiful day where all the pieces came together in Bochum
Did you have any feeling that William Lee would have a big game after he scored his first bucket?
Yes I knew it right away. I thought that he would run off 20 straight shots. I told him at half time to keep going. Bochum was giving our guards so much attention so that he could take over.
He began well against Vechta and then had some bad games and now this. How do you explain his up and down play? I think that with William it is more about who is on the floor with him and who he can feed off. I think in his down games, he was trying to figure out his place in the lineup. We had so many different lineups and that is hard on anybody. We had a great lineup and that put him in great positions for his game. That was the real William tonight. That is what he gets paid for.
How much did the 2 three´s late by Matt Strange hurt? But defensively you couldn´t stop the drive so well?
That hurt us. We tried to take away his three pointer. It is tough guarding him. Sometimes he doesn´t even look at the rim when he shoots the ball. He kept them in the game.
The Guardians had the solid 51-45 lead at the break as you and Lee carried the team. But Bochum´s Tamenang Choh was a menace. What was so difficult in stopping him? I think that he did a good job getting to his spots. He found out how to play against our defense and got to his spots. He was able to utilize his game off our defense. He has a great IQ as well. He took what the defense gave him.
How key was the early 11-2 run in the third quarter with 2 three´s by Lee. Was that the starting stepping stone of getting the comfortable lead?
That run changed the game. I was already celebrating before he took the shots. We know that once he makes shots like that, the game is history.
The Guardians had the comfortable 78-61 advantage after 3 quarters. Alexandre Bouzidi added 5 points. How huge was the overall contribution from so many guys on offense? That was huge. It is so much having many contribute than having all eyes only on one. It was great having 5-6 guys be able to control the pace. Michael Bradley set a career high in assists. Everything came together tonight
How proud are you of the team that you finished strong? So often in this season, the Guardians have let up in the second half to lose? I´m so proud how well we played for 40 minutes. We had so many problems this season being able to put 2 halves together. The way we played in Bochum tonight is how we should of played all season long. But you can´t control the ups and downs during a season.
Leon Friderici scored the 100th points. Is he getting donuts? Leon needs those donuts. He hit a lot of big shots. He showed up big in the first half.
What was the biggest strength of the team? Perhaps keeping Bochum to only 33% from outside as a team? It was our defense. We were flying around all night long and switching up our defense on almost every play. We had a jump defense.
You have a do or die game against Ps Karlsruhe and Artland plays against the door mat Vechta. What will be key to beating PS Karlsruhe?
We just have to be ourselves just like against Bochum. We as players and our coach can´t panic. We just have together as a unit and paly ball.
You had 27 points against Trier and 24 against Bochum. Are you saving your absolute best for PS Karlsruhe? Oh yes. I´m all locked in for the final game. It will be my best.
What is your favorite childhood easter memory and how will you celebrate on Sunday in Germany? My favorite Easter memory was searching for Easter eggs at church with all the children. They were golden eggs with 5$ bills. As a kid, we felt rich when we found them. I think tomorrow I will get together with some of the guys and get food. I might also go to church with Adi Eri.
Who will reach the NBA final and who will win it? I have Boston-Golden State and Golden State winning.
Adrian Breitlauch (193-SG-1993) is a 31 year old 193cm guard playing his 7th season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. He played 3 years in the easyCredit BBL with Bremerhaven. He also balled 2 seasons with the Artland Dragons and 4 years with the Itzehoe Eagles. He also had experience with TK Hannover and BSG Bermerhaven. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Adrian for talking to germanhoops.com. You got a contract extension and will play your 8th season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Is Bremerhaven your second home?
Yes it is. It is my home. I was born in Bremen, but lived in Bremerhaven since I was 5 years old. I have so many friends here. I´m so thrilled that I can play more years with this club.
What makes this organization so perfect? What have you learned to appreciate most about the organization? I remind myself all the time just how thankful I am to play for the Eisbaeren. It was my childhood dream since I was 13 to play for this club. The club grew some more this season. It is very family oriented and everyone understands the other.
You played 3 BBL seasons with them and then the rest in the Pro A. Was the easyCredit BBL never a serious ambition after the 3 years? I never wanted to leave the Eisbaeren even when we moved down to the Pro A. I wanted to stay faithful to them. My 2 years with the Artland Dragons were very important because I was able to study on the side which will help me prepare for life after my playing career.
Let´s talk a little about your game. If you had to compare your game to a NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description? I´m a role player that has a good shot, but at the same time plays smart. I have always been a player that can give an impact on the game without having the ball much in his hands. I´m like a 3 and D player with IQ.
Your playing your least minutes this season since 2018-2019. Your playing 3-4 minutes less, but your stats are better. It seems like your game is aging like fine wine. Are you getting better with age? I hope so. I hope that trend will continue in the next years. I think my game fits well to Esterkamp´s system. A goal for the team this season was that every player gets around 20 minutes per game. Less minutes but more gas.
What exactly is your role on the team? Are you like a glue guy?
I´m the captain and team dad because I´m the oldest. I bring a lot of experience and am a good role model for the younger players.
Your shooting your best ever from outside at 44%. Have you changed anything up with your shooting technique? I think that our system allows me to take good shots. I think working on my body this past season has helped me. I think that when the body feels it helps you most to be consistent with your game.
Your only 31 years old. On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
I try to work on my strengths. I work on my shooting, rebounding and IQ. I think that my game just fits well into Esterkamp´s system. I want to be the best role player possible.
You played last season with Nick Hornsby. How great of a player is he? Do they come anymore versatile than him?
I think that Nick is the definition of the Swiss army knife. He is one of my favorite players that I have played with. Every team would love to have him. I would love to be his teammate again.
Your playing your second time with Daniel Norl. How has he improved his game in the last 2 years? He brought more experience this season and knows the German leagues. He is creative and can score in many ways. I feel like with experience, he has become more versatile. He also has become a better facilitator- He is a vital puzzle piece to our success.
You played 2 seasons with the Artland Dragons. What kind of an experience were those 2 years? What was your fondest moment there? My fondest moment was that we made the playoffs in my first season. My second year wasn´t as great as I was out for a long time. I was an assistant coach with Patrick Flomo and even was head coach for one game.
You were teammates with legend Chase Griffin. Who would win a 3 point shooting contest you or him? I think he would go 9/10 and I would go 10/10.
You were also teammates with Zac Ensminger. How much potential does he have? I guess you can´t have a better mentor than dad Chris? He has a great mentor with his dad, but he showed that he isn´t just the son, but Zac the player. I´m following his season in Finland with much interest. I think that he will play many more years in the BBL.
You played 83 BBL games with Bremerhaven. What was your personal favorite game? My favorite game was the overtime win over Oldenburg in Bremen in front of 8,000 fans. It was one of my first BBL games and then to play against my childhood idol Rickey Paulding was amazing.
What was it like playing for Sebastian Machowski. What did you learn most from his coaching philosophy? I will be forever be grateful to him, because he gave me my chance to play in the BBL. He put me in cold water and just let me play. He liked my hustle. He told me to always work on my drive and left hand.
You were teammates with a young Dominique Johnson. Is there a more energetic and tough player than him right now in the Pro A? He is at the top. He is a friend of mine. He is a leader that every team needs.
What was it like being teammates with Elston Turner? Did he tell any NBA stories about his dad? He was a great guy. He was a very creative 1-1 player. He was a super guy off the court, but didn´t tell many stories. He always put guys on an island. I have a super positive memory of him.
What memories do you have of Darnell Jackson? Did he tell any Lebron James stories?
He was also a cool guy. I still have contact to him. He lived in Bremerhaven with his family. He told some Lebron stories, but that I don´t want to tell.
You played with the Itzehoe Eagles from 2012-2016. How vital were these early years in your basketball development I always went to places where I know I could get decent minutes. I got a lot of minutes in the Regionalliga and in the Pro B. The important thing is that I got the chance to play. I would of never gotten the opportunity with Bremerhaven if I hadn´t been with Itzehoe.
How special was that last season playing for Pat Elzie? How do you remember him in his teaching methods and could you develop further under him?
Pat helped me a lot. He had a lot of trust in me. He is a players coach that always pushed me. I feel that without having gotten his trust, I would of never landed in Bremerhaven.
You were teammates with Kostas Karamatskos. What memories do you have of him? Could one learn toughness from him?
It was a real challenge to play against him as a young player. He was always physical on the court, but off the court, a gentle person. He was a real role model for me and a real character.
Who was the greatest player that you ever faced on the court? Derrick Williams when he played with FC Bayern Munich. I had to cover him and that was no easy task.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Jordan Hulls, Jonny Berhanemeskel, Michael Kessen, Casey Hill, Nick Hornsby
Please name your personal NBA, Euro and German Mount Rushmore? Jordan, Lebron, Kobe, Kareem
Jokic, Doncic, Drazen Petrovic, Giannis Dirk, Dennis Schroeder, Detlef Schrempf, Franz Wagner
Jake Biss (188-G-1998, college: Shippensburg) is a 25 year old 188cm guard from Latrobe, Pennsylvania playing his second professional season and first in Germany with the Gartnezaun24 Baskets Paderborn. Last season he played with the Den Helder Suns (Holland-DBL) averaging 12.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 90.3% in the BNXT league. He began his basketball career at Greater Latrobe High School and then played at ShippensburgUniversity (NCAA2) from 2017-2022 amassing a total of 118 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball in 2024 during his season with Paderborn
Thanks Jake for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome to Germany and signing with Pro A team Paderborn. After a solid rookie season in Holland, you didn´t land a job until now. Did clubs in Europe underestimate your talent? No I don’t think they underestimated my talent, I had to get surgery on my ankle late in august and wasn’t back to good health until recently
Did you ever visit Germany in your rookie season? What do you know about the country Germany and it´s basketball?
I did not visit Germany in my rookie season, this is my first time in the country. Don’t know a whole lot about it either, but I do know I’m in a very talented and respected league.
Head coach Steve Esterkamp was very happy to find you. What kind of an impression did he leave you in the first talks?
Coach Esterkamp seemed very welcoming from the jump. He explained things to me bluntly and let me know he could use what I bring to the table.
Paderborn is struggling. Do you feel a little pressure having to step up right away and help the team win? I know the team and the fans have expectations with this club having the rich history it does, and I plan to help the club succeed in any way possible. I’m sure if I give this team all I got they’ll embrace and support me whatever the outcome may be.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet well. What kind of player will Germany see? I think Germany will see a player that’s consistent. I know coach Esterkamp will put me in the right situations that best suit me well and allow me to succeed the way I know I can
If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I wouldn’t compare my game to Devin Booker, but he’s definitely who I try and mold my game after. I like getting to the midrange and shooting the ball at a high clip
You can fill the stat sheet well. How defined would you classify your versatility on the court? I see myself as a pretty versatile guard. I‘ve been a point guard my entire life up until last year where I got moved to the 2, but I really developed my shot last season and feel that I can make plays when needed or score the ball from all three levels.
What do you believe is a hidden strength in your game that is still a bit off the radar?
I think my defense is what a lot of people overlook. I may have to adjust to a few different strategies coach Esterkamp uses in his defense, but I’m confident I will adjust quickly and do well defensively.
What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?
Like I mentioned I think I’m a solid defender. I’m not somebody that’s going to give you 4 steals a game, but I’m going to be solid all around and frustrate teams defensively
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to progress as a player?
This past summer I’ve really been working on my shot, especially off the dribble from 3. My mid range has always been my go to, but shooting a lot more three’s last season has developed my shot from distance and has made me want to expand even more in that direction.
Last season you played with the Den Helder Suns (Holland-DBL) averaging 12.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 90.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? Outside of basketball I think just hearing people speak a different language and all the street signs and advertisements you see around the city being in a different langue. I was quick to notice all the cars being a little smaller too. Nothing crazy, but it definitely takes some adjusting to.
Head coach Peter Van Noord gave you a lot of freedom as a rookie. How do you feel did your game grow in your rookie season?
He did draw up a lot of looks for me in timeouts which I appreciated and throughout the season I feel like I learned how to play more aggressive, whether offensively or defensively
You played at Shippensburg University (NCAA2) from 2017-2022. What is your summary of your career there? You had ups and downs and was very consistent. What was your fondest moment there reaching the Sweet 16 or the PSAC final?
My time at Shippensburg was great. That’s where I figured out with the help of my coaches how to become a scorer. Reaching the sweet 16 my freshman year was a really cool moment and definitely one of my favorites. Especially learning from and being led that entire year by my teammate Dustin Sleva, who is having a great career playing in Europe.
In 2020-2021 the season was cancelled because of Covid. How do you remember this time? Were you an animal in the gym?
Not having a season in 20-21 was pretty rough for everyone. It was hard to even find gym’s that were open, but fortunately a family friend allowed me to use his gym during most of that time.
You had so many great games including numerous 30 plus point games. What was your best personal performance in the NCAA 2? My best performance was probably the first game of my junior season against Virginia Union. It set a great example for the rest of the season and helped build more confidence in myself and my team
How did head coach Chris Fite groom and preparer you best for a professional career?
Coach Fite did an outstanding job with me. After grooming me and helping me adjust to the college game my freshman year he basically game me the keys to the car and told me this was my team the following season. That alone filled me with a confidence I never knew I had. His trust in me is what really helped develop my game and led to a successful 4 seasons at Shippensburg.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Kyon Hardy? Hahaha I don’t know if Kiyon and I ever played 1’s in practice, but I’m sure they would be tight games if we did. Kiyon was a great player, super smart out on the court and an even better teammate.
Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?
The only player I know I played against in college who ended up playing in the NBA was BJ Johnson from La Salle, the one D1 school who would play us. Other guys like Amir Hinton, Anthony Lee and Jacobo Diaz were always tough to play against too. The PSAC produces a lot of professional talent.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? My top five teammates of all time are Sean Graytok, Reed Fenton, Austin Butler, Bryce Butler, Tim Kisick in no specific order
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Current players NBA Mt. Rushmore is probably Joker, KD, DBook and Steph
Who is your GOAT and why?
I’m honestly not a big fan of the Goat debates. There’s too many stipulations like eras and stats and championships to ever get a good answer. If I have to pick probably Kobe. I just respect him as a person and his game more than any other player.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I did not see the sequel to that movie unfortunately. I’m assuming it wasn’t as good as the first one lol
Sidney Brown (177-PG-1999, college: Albright) is a 25 year old 177cm point guard from New Jersey that just completed his first season overseas with SG MTV/BG Wolfenbuettel (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 25/5/5/4. He began his basketball career with Winslow Township High School. He then played at Albright College (NCAA3) from 2017 to 2022 playing a total of 99 games and as a senior averaged 15.3ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.2apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 85.3%. He then got experience playing semi pro ball in the States with the Atlantic City Gambits (TBL), Albany Patroons (TBL) and Tri-State Admirals (TBL). He spoke to germanhoops.com after finishing his first season overseas in Germany.
You just completed your first pro season overseas with the SG MTV/BG Wolfenbuettel (Germany-Regionalliga). What kind of an overall experience was it for you? What did you enjoy most from it?
It was definitely a great experience, learning to be independent living on my own and providing for myself on a daily life scale, being able to travel on my own to different locations of Germany, and being accompanied by great teammates, staff, and fans made the entire season here warm and welcoming. I am glad to have been able to experience a great city.
It was a solid season for SG MTV/BG Wolfenbuettel (Germany-Regionalliga). The team began well winning 6 of it´s first 7 games. Then came a 6 game losing streak which turned the season around. What happened in that losing phase? We kind of lost our identity, losing two teammates who were crucial to our success, and just getting the new young guys accustomed to a new level of playing that they haven’t quite experienced yet.
The team then rebounded and had a 5 game winning streak and then lost 4 of 5 games to finish the season. What was your summary of the season? If we were able to keep our full team for the whole season we would have been able to crack the top 4 for sure, we had a great group of guys but losing important teammates and some games not everyone being able to play messes with the flow of the team. I’m sure the top 4 teams had the same roster throughout the season and for winning teams that’s crucial to have. Besides that the guys who were around had competed and played every game with all we had and left it out there on the court win or loss.
How much of a factor was age for the season? The team was very young? Was the team missing a few experienced guys? Yes, both our 4 men left in different parts of the season, one due to injury early in the season around October, and another for studying abroad in mid February. Missing those guys gave us a different look in size and experience, but this game waits for no one, the next guy just has to step up, But over time I do believe our young guys matured very well over the season and in the next steps of their careers I definitely feel you should look out for them because they will be making impacts wherever they play in the future.
You had a great first season overseas averaging 23/5/5/4. What was your personal summary of your season? I could have been better and I will be better, I don’t ever get complacent with myself. There is always a new level to acquire and I will strive to get there. As a primary ball handler and playmaker, my points and assists should be up way more in this league.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 177cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description. You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet with ease. What is your biggest strength on the court?
It’s hard to compare to one person in the NBA, if I had to stay it’d be DeAaron Fox, mixed with some Kemba Walker offensively, and Jose Alvarado defensively. My coach compared me to TJ Shorts’ variant with just a better 3 point shot. I feel my biggest strength is my quickness and shooting skills. Every team plays full court man, so a lot of time the games are 5 versus 4 in my favor because as I was taught that man in front of me is already beat, it’s about reading what the other 4 people are doing and make the best read I can whether that’s shooting or creating for a teammate. And adding shooting with that quickness means you have to play me up so in most games defenses are at my mercy on the court.
You have always been a great three point shooter. This season you shot 37% in Germany. What is missing from becoming a 40% shooter? Taking more efficient 3 point shots. Understanding if I miss 2-3 three’s that it’s time to get below the 3 point line and get into my pull up, floater, or layup which I do just as well if not better than my 3 point shot.
You’re an aggressive and very ambitious defender. Do you feel that opponents underestimate you at times because of your height? No not at all, most times after a couple minutes guards usually pass the ball up to get it away from me which lets me know I am disrupting their flow of the game and makes me more hungry defensively, it’s been happening since high school.
You had 9 and 8 steals in a game this season. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I am just a crafty defender, I know if someone is in a pivot and tries to play with the basketball in my face I am quick enough to swipe the ball away, or like Jose Alvarado getting the chase down sneaky steals. Now the next step is truly just understanding the flow of the game, especially in help defense, seeing what the opposing players are seeing and being one step ahead.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player? To be a better rim finisher and attacking players bodies to draw fouls. Players with fouls play differently in foul trouble and if I can make players have to play conservative it becomes more in my favor.
It took you 2 seasons of grinding in the States to come overseas. How tough were these few years? Did you ever lose faith in the basketball process?
Those years were definitely the biggest test of my faith to achieve my dreams. I gave myself two years to make it overseas, and if I didn’t I would have given up and just got a regular job, so the timing of it all was really remarkable. Some nights I would just stay up thinking is all this hard work that I am putting in even worth it but my trainer and close friends and family told me to just keep at it, stick to my script and you will be rewarded for it and I am glad to say they were right.
How much of an issue has your height been for you your whole career? The chip has to be extremely enormous for you. How have you dealt with it on a daily basis?
The saying goes that guards come a dime a dozen and in my case for undersized guards like me those odds are multiplied by 100. There is a me in every city, or town wanting to be where I am or higher, and the question people tell me all the time is what will I do to be different to get there. The chip used to weigh me down for how heavy it was,but I began to understand that just being yourself is the key, and either they like you or they don’t. There is no faking who you are on this journey either the opportunity comes to you or it doesn’t, and that is life. This game doesn’t dictate your life and you shouldn’t give it the power to either.
You played for 3 TBL teams with Atlantic City Gambits , Albany Patroons and Tri-State Admirals. What memories do you have of these years? How big was the grind and how did it make you stronger? These were the toughest years mentally, not playing a lot if at all tested if I wanted to really do this but I never wanted to be a TBL player I wanted to be a overseas player. It was just an extra step to keep me in shape while I waited for my opportunity to come to leave. It did make me stronger playing with people who have been where I wanted to be and it showed me the next level.
You played at Albright (NCAA3) from 2017-2022. How did your game grow in these years?
My game grew tremendously, honestly because this was the first time that I had access to a gym and the more consistent I stayed in the gym the more my confidence grew, from my freshman year of not playing at all, to my sophomore year through my fifth year being a 4 year starter and being a big contributor to our teams success. It was a great experience to grow and be able to turn myself into more of the pro I always aim and inspire to be. The more I stayed in the gym my shot making abilities improved tremendously, and I have always been able to defend so it began to give me more of a bigger role as the years went on.
In 2021 you helped win the MAC title. What memories do you have of this run? It was a covid championship so it really was a different experience, having games with no one in the crowd. It felt like condensed open runs and definitely memorable because if someone were to have caught covid during those times, more likely than not your season was over. But everyone bought in for the limited games we had and through that we were able to come out on top.
How did Rick Ferry groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
He gave me the confidence to shoot without fear, not many shots I took did he really ever tell me were bad shots but that also came from him seeing me constantly in the gym and seeing that I was doing what it took to be better so I imagined it was just his way of rewarding me for my hard work put in.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Troy Smoot? Me and him would go back and forth, definitely had battles playing each other for sure.
Who the toughest player you battled that reached the NBA?
I played against Dejuan Wagner in open gym workouts, JR Smith in a summer league, and Precious Achiuwa in a high school showcase game..
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?
My 5 best teammates of all time I can say are my college teammates Samuel Majekodunmi, a true bucket getter, and DeLascio Dancy, a great floor general, Michael Cubbage, a great two way basketball player and pro who I played in high school with, and two of my Atlantic City Gambits teammates Frank Turner, a true point guard and well experienced overseas veteran who could break down any defense thrown at him and knew the game like the back of his hand, and Brandon Taylor a powerful 4-5 that could do literally anything he wanted on the court at all times throughout the game.
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? My NBA Mt Rushmore is LeBron James, Steph Curry, Michael Jordan, and Nikola Jokic
Who is your GOAT?
My GOAT is LeBron James, he is leaving his mark on this game unlike any other, and he is still playing better than most of the players in the league even at the age of 40, we will never witness anyone with the longevity and greatness of a career he has ever had.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? No I did not, I have learned that outdated sequels are unnecessary, film directors just need to make new films and leave some masterpieces alone because it taints the legacy of movies in my opinion.
The first thought that a young, ambitious and hungry player might have when landing on the campus of a JUCO school could be “what the hell am I doing here”? I´m way better than having to be here”. Guys land in JUCO for many reasons. Some don´t have the money, others don´t have the grades and others don´t have the necessary skills at that point of their basketball careers. But as time goes by, a lot of these guys start to believe that going the JUCO route wasn´t so bad after all. I believe the percent number of guys who went to JUCO and felt it was one that was tough, but one they wouldn´t have traded the world for is 100%. Ok I ´ll stay on the safe side and say somewhere around 99,5%. Ok so many of the players are playing for their stats and trying to move up to higher divisions, but there are also guys who learn the team game and actually win their first chips there. Nothing is impossible in JUCO. The way to the NCAA and going pro overseas is a reach, but it has been done. Guys even reached the NBA with guys like Chris Boucher or Richaun Homes just to mention a few. These NBA players and others are the best motivation for JUCO guys to give all they have to reach their goals. The guys that play JUCO definitely pay their dues, but there are some guys that have to go the whole 9 yards and have to play at 3. I thought that had to be the hardest hurdle, but it wasn´t. Asa Williams (198-SF-1999, college: Montana Tech) who is living out the dream in Germany with Pro B team BG Leitershofen actually stuck it out at 3 JUCO school something about as rare as seeing Luka Doncic not hit a trick shot in some capacity before a game. And he is more than blessed to have done it. “Juco was a great experience. I appreciate all my coaches and teammates that helped me get through my Juco route. I’m grateful for the opportunity and I think that plan in Juco build character for a lot of players. I think that if you play Juco, you will have the opportunity to make it through a lot of things in life. It shaped me into a player that can face any obstacle that comes in front of him. Juco Shaped me into the player I am today”, warned Asa Williams.
Asa Williams who lists Kyree Walker and Marvin Bagley as the toughest players that he has ever faced so far in his career on the court was born on September 15th, 1999 in Solon, Ohio. He attended Fort Loramie high school and then began his long trek of playing at 3 JUCO schools. He began his journey with Waubonsee Community College (JUCO) playing 32 games and averaging 13.9ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.8%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 81.0%. He then played at %, Holmes Community College (JUCO) averaging 3.9ppg, 2.2rpg and was NJCAA D1 Gulf District Champion -and NJCAA D1 Region XXIII Champion -2021. He then finished at Chandler-Gilbert Community College (JUCO) averaging 10.7ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 35.3%, 3PT: 26.6%, FT: 62.5%.” Each school I played at. I learned a lot about myself learning how to be a better player or teammate. Waubonsee taught me how to be a better scorer. Holmes taught me how to face adversity and be a better teammate while coming off the bench. CGCC taught me how to be a better player while also fighting against small problems and adversity throughout the year”, stressed Asa Williams. After having paid his dues in JUCO, he made the next step and palyed 2 seasons at Montana Technological University (NAIA) averaging 14.2ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 70.5% and 16.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 58.9%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 71.3%. He made huge strides in his game there. “I was more aggressive. I had a bigger goal my senior year and that was to lead my team in scoring and be the best player on the floor each night”, remembered Asa Williams. In his first season tehre he helped reach the NAIA Elite 8 losing to OUAZ. “It was a great experience made it the farthest in Montana tech history. For all sports to play in the elite 8 was a one of kind experience. I’m glad I got to experience that. Playing the national tournament is always a goal of mine. I’m glad we made it to Kansas City”, said Asa Williams. He had a reunion this season in Germany already with American Caleb Bellach who was his teammate in the NAIA and opponent with Team Ehingen. “ It was great he was one of the my favorite teammates. He was a great player winning player of the year. He had great leadership qualities and always made his teammates better. Caleb is a great player and a winning player. It was great to compete against him on the pro level”, stated Asa Williams who remembers beating him in 1-1 games in practice. He scored in double figures in 51 of 60 NAIA games including exploding for 31 points against Carroll MT, and 30 points against E Oregon. He couldn´t of made such massive strides without the guidance of head coach Adam Hiatt. “He pushed me each day in practice and coaching me as if I was a professional. Making me be a professional each day toward my teammates and coaches. Holding me to professional standards”, commented Asa Williams.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Asa Williamas in Bad Honef after a game against the Dragons Rhondorf
The 198cm forward who lists LeBron James, Kobe, Steph, and Michael Jordan on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is playing his rookie season overseas with BG Leitershofen. “I’m super blessed God has blessed me in more ways than one I’m thankful that I got this opportunity and that Coach Richie gave me a chance and my family supports me. Just having the opportunity to play in another country and playing for my family. I’m thankful for my club and my teammates they are amazing and it’s a great opportunity”, expressed Asa Williams. The club is in it´s third Pro B season and finished 9 and 11th the last 2 seasons. This season the team is battling the RheinStars for the top spot. Leitershofen split with the RheinStars this season and the 2 games were decided by not more than 7 points. What has been the secret of the success? “Just following coaches game plan and playing together as a team. I think the goal to success is loving each other and being disciplined. We are very hungry we think we have a legitimate chance to win. We will have the opportunity to play in the playoffs so it’ll be great to be there and do something for the club that has never been done”, warned Asa Williams. The team is a scoring machine and averages more than 90 points per game and gives up less than 80 points. The team has proven that they defend with passion. “Communication is our biggest strength. We communicate with each other. I think just playing super hard and trusting one another we make the game easy for each other”, added Asa Williams. Team has an incredible big man duo of Ellias Marei and Ferenc Gillie. “They are great I think they are best big man duo in the league they both can stretch the floor and rebound well”, stated Asa Williams. The team also has another American with Christian Hinckson and Romanian Dragos Dickulescu who are both also instrumental for the success of the team. “I like that Christian spreads the court. He can also push the ball in transition. Christan is probably one of our best defenders and one of our best rebounders. He plays out of position most of the time because he is a true small forward in my opinion, but he stretches the floor at our four spot so it’s good for our team. Dragos is very valuable helps the teams in all aspects. He can play make score and read the game very well”, stressed Asa Williams.
The Ohio native who lists Chrishon Dixon- Montana Tech Sindou Diallo – Montana Tech Elias Marei- kangaroos Simeon Strauss-Waubonsee Meech Valdez- Cgcc as his 5 best teammates of all-time and Lebron James as his GOAT is a 198cm player that likes to shoot the trey and is shifty like a Jordan Poole. His biggest strength is shooting and pushing the ball in transition. But he also gives his all on the defensive end and isn´t one dimensional. “I think since coming to Europe I’m a better defender. I think that Coach Ritchie and my teammates push me each day and practice to become a better defender and I think that I’m defending the ball a lot better than what I was when I played in college at Montana Tech. I’m learning different things on defense, especially ways to help when not guarding on the ball”, stressed Asa Williams. He is shooting the three ball extremely well, but knows there is still work to do inorder to reach the next level. “To make the next step as a shooter, I just have to be more consistent each game and more consistent in practice continuing to work on my shot and listening to the things that Coach Andy helps me work on. Staying on top of this will help me become the next best shooter in Europe”, warned Asa Williams. He has needed no adjustment time as currently he is averaging 16/3/1/1. What ahs been his secret to coming over and performing so well? “Just trusting in what my coaches and teammates tell me. It’s a different game so just focusing and being coachable”, said Asa Williams. He had his best scoring game against top team RheinStars Cologne exploding for 31 points. He mustr of been extra motivated after missing the first game? “ I’m motivated for every game. It just so happened to be my day. Thankful that my teammates put me in position to win”, smiled Asa Williams. In 2 games against Coburg and Cologne he hit 17 three´s. That was the best display of shooing back to back in his career. He also hit 8 three´s last season against Carroll Mt. It will be interesting where the journey of Asa Williams will go to in the next years. This season all has been good, but you never know when adversary might challenge you? But one thing is for sure, he knows that his vast JUCO experience will always guide him through life on and off the court.
Pano Pavlidis (203-PF-2000, college: Stonehill) is a 24 year old 203 cm forward from Bayside, New York that has Greek roots and Cyprus roots is playing his rookie season and first with Keravnos Strovolou (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) averaging 6,7ppg and 2,9rpg. He began his basketball career at Cardozo high school and then played at Molloy College (NCAA2) from 2018-2021. He then played a season with the University of Hartford (NCAA) averaging 8.0ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 64.9%, 3PT: 24.2%, FT: 57.4% and played a season with Stonehill College (NCAA) avergaing 6.6ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 56.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig.
Thanks Pano 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?
Playing for Keravnos has been a great experience for me. It has always been a huge dream of mine to play basketball professionally and being able to play in my home country with a great organization filled with amazing people makes it a dream come true. I give a lot of thanks to my agent, Nick Vangelis of GBN agency, because he was able to connect me with such a great organization. From the presidents, to coaches, my teammates and the fans, everyone has been so encouraging and accepting of me that I look forward to anything we do as a team.
You grew up in New York and have Greek and Cyprus roots. What has it been like living overseas and playing basketball in Cyprus? Has it been a tough adjustment?
I was born and raised in Queens, New York with only my parents and brother. Despite being so far from our countries and families, my parents made sure to raise me as a proud Greek-Cypriot. I often visited my family in Northern Epirus, Athens and Paphos every summer. Because of this, the adjustment overseas has been effortless for me especially with the help of Keravnos and the way they have helped me settle into my new home. I am also very fortunate to have my aunt, uncle and cousins in Nicosia that I visit daily which is a luxury I did not have growing up.
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?
The ambition and desire to win within the club is a big motivator for everyone associated with the organization. Everyone has such high goals for themselves and for the organization that we all come into work everyday and push each other to continue to get better to reach our common goal for cups and championships. This was a major factor why I wanted to play for Keravnos because of their history of success and the people that work hard everyday to continue the winning tradition.
You’re playing for Greek legend Michalis Kakiouzis. How much of his winning genes trickles down on the team? What have you appreciated the most about his coaching philosophy?
Coach Kakiouzis was another factor why I wanted to play for Keravnos. He has an elite resume as a player and since we play the same position I wanted to be coached by him to learn as much as I can. His experiences as a player make him a great coach because of the numerous obstacles he was able to overcome throughout his playing career and I personally try to soak up as much knowledge as I can. What I appreciate the most of his coaching philosophy is he is a players coach and he connects to us as athletes because he was once in our shoes and understands our perspective firsthand.
The club has real experience in the front court with Crockett and Taylor. What really stands out most with their games? Crockett and Taylor are both phenomenal players that I speak to often to learn from their experience throughout their professional careers. The biggest thing that stands out the most to me besides their obvious talent on the court is their professionalism with the way they handle adversity throughout the season and treat every workout, practice, off-day, etc. They are both very disciplined on the court and it’s because of their work ethic in their craft which explains why they are both 10+ year professionals and still getting better.
What have been the most important things that you have been able to soak up from their games?
The most important things I have been able to take from both Crockett’s and Taylor’s game as forwards who do not control the ball is how effective and efficient they are off of the ball on the offensive end. Both players are great individual defenders and huge pieces for our defense but on the offensive side of the ball, they are very productive throughout our system. They both have made huge plays for our team by playing the right way and letting the game come to them naturally. Not only are they unselfish players but they are high IQ players that make good reads on both ends.
You’re averaging 9 minutes in the OPAP and Fiba Europe Cup. What exactly is your role on the team? I think my role is still being defined by my coaching staff and myself. The past two months have been a huge adjustment for me to adapt to European basketball while learning a new system from multiple positions. I feel like I have made a lot of progress in this time and I am prepared to expand my role that will best help the team reach our goal. As long as I keep working hard and staying disciplined, I think the sky’s the limit with the confidence I have in myself and the faith my organization has in me as a person and player.
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the bill? This is an interesting question because I love watching and learning from so many different players. I personally try to play as a smaller version of Kevin Garnett, he is one player I idolize because of his high motor and intensity during each possession on both ends. I think I can be a solid stretch four that can run the court, shoot, dribble and bring energy on defense especially by being vocal.
You never averaged 10 ppg or more in college, but you always rebounded the ball well. Describe what your biggest strengths are on the court?
I think in the beginning of my career my biggest strength was my motor because I started playing basketball later than most players who have made it professionally. Before I was able to develop my skills and expand my game, I always focused on bringing energy, going after rebounds on both ends, and anchoring the defenses on any team I played on by studying the scouting report and being vocal. Now that I have had years of hard work and continue to develop my craft, I have maintained my high motor but I think my biggest strength now is my versatility as a jack of all trades. I workout daily and focus on being effective from multiple spots on the court on both ends so I can always help my team despite the situation.
You take the three pointer, but aren’t a high volume shooter. Is the three ball a part of your game that you feel like you could use more as a weapon overseas? The three ball is something I have worked very hard these past couple of years to develop with my trainer, Kevin Moriarty of KM-BBall, specifically for overseas. We have put countless hours in the gym together to improve my shooting in multiple situations to allow me to take a huge jump going into my rookie year. On a professional team with such talented and high IQ players, being a forward that can stretch the floor helps make the game a lot easier and I have taken extensive time focusing on being a consistent three point shooter to open up the court. I have always been a good shooter that other teams had to respect but it is a goal of mine to become a three point threat to allow me to open up other aspects of my game.
You showed at Molloy and Hartford that you could be a solid shot blocker. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? I view myself as a solid defender that can guard multiple positions and I enjoy accepting the challenge of being assigned high level players. I think I have a lot more room to grow as a defender because I have mainly guarded 3s,4s and 5s but want to be able to switch onto guards on the perimeter consistently. Being a player that can switch onto anyone on the court has been an asset for any team I have played on and want to continue that on the professional level.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
The main thing I am focusing on to continue to improve in my game is transitioning into a consistent small forward. My career thus far has been mainly playing the 4 or the 5 and I still view myself as a good power forward but I have always wanted to showcase my game on the perimeter. Fortunately enough, with Keravnos I will finally have that opportunity and my coaches help me everyday get better at being a small forward. I am mainly working on becoming a consistent three point shooter, developing my dribbling and understanding angles with proper spacing from a small forward’s perspective.
How vital was it for your game playing at 3 colleges in the States? What kind of a player were you in 2018 and what kind of a player in 2024 when you came overseas? I personally believe everything happens for a reason and it is all a part of God’s timing which is why me playing for three different schools was very beneficial for me as a player. Starting off at Molloy in 2018, my coaching staff took a chance on a young skinny kid and I learned so much from them and my teammates. They taught me how to become a better player and man for the four years I spent there. After graduating from Molloy, I took a risk by putting my name into the transfer portal and that’s when I was contacted by Hartford. Going to Hartford was honestly a pivotal point in my career because playing for a division one program with great resources allowed me to take my hard working mentality and optimize it to the best of my ability. I quickly gained weight with the help of their excellent strength coaches, learned so much from the amazing coaching staff and was given a great opportunity to prove myself on the division one level. Unfortunately, because of institutional changes I was not able to finish my career at Hartford and needed to transfer again which is when Coach Kraus and Stonehill became another pivotal point in my career. At Stonehill I was able to graduate with my masters and continue my development as a player. My coaching staff at Stonehill was filled with hardworking and encouraging coaches that helped me mature as a player throughout the season. I look back a lot on all of my experiences between my three schools that I am proud to have attended. Those experiences and the people I met along the way still help me to this day as a professional basketball player.
You played at Molloy College (NCAA2) from 2018-2022. You made a big jump in your game in your second season. What was it like playing for Charles Marquardt? How did you help your game most in your second season? – Throughout my college career, I spent the most time with Coach Marquardt and I learned so much from him on and off the court. In my first year, I was a raw prospect and we had a phenomenal team that won a championship which is why I did not play much but Coach Marquardt always saw my potential and work ethic. From this championship team, I learned what it took to win and the proper habits a player and team needs to have and build throughout a season. For my entire second year, I was given the opportunity and helped throughout the year by the entire coaching staff to continue to develop my game which allowed me to make this big jump.
You scored 17 points against District of Col winning 102-101. How thrilling do you have that game in your memories?
– If I remember correctly, I think I started the first half with all of my 17 points and was perfect from the field. This was one of my first games where I felt that I started to break out of my shell but if my memory serves right, the most thrilling part about this game was my teammate Nick Corbett going coast to coast and making a game winning lay up.
You then played at the University of Hartford (NCAA) averaging 8.0ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 64.9%, 3PT: 24.2%, FT: 57.4%. You needed no adjustment time coming from division 2 ball. How did your game mature overall in this season?
– My personal success at Hartford was largely because of the amazing coaching staff and strength coaches that spent hours with me to help me prepare and develop as a player on the court and in the weight room. I still speak with my coaches from Hartford regularly because of the connection we built but they still help me to this day by offering advice to continue my development. They taught me how to play the game at a high level by making proper reads on the court and showed me how to properly lift while dieting throughout a long season and in the summer.
You then played 1 more season at Stonehill College (NCAA) averaging 6.6ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 56.3%. How valuable was this year for you?
– Stonehill was a great place for me to finish my college career. Coach Kraus was an amazing coach and even better mentor that taught me how to carry myself as a professional that is helping me right now as a rookie. He also allowed me the opportunity to graduate with a masters that I will use when my basketball career ends which I cannot thank him enough for because he has helped me set up my life on a great path.
You played against NCAA powerhouse Kentucky losing 101-67, but you held your own in 14 minutes with 6/4/2/1/1 stats. Did that game make you feel like you belonged?
I personally always felt that I belonged on a basketball court no matter who I am facing. As long as I prepare by working out as hard as I can and studying film I think anything is possible and each big game is an opportunity to seize. Playing against Kentucky during Coach Calipari’s last season there was a moment I will never forget. My only regret is I wish I did not get hurt to the point I needed stitches and only had a chance to play 14 minutes during that game.
The team had no answer for Reed Shepherd who scored 25 points off the bench. Did you have that feeling then that he had NBA material? Reed Shepherd is a great player and you could tell he was NBA material during his one year at Kentucky. The biggest thing I saw in his game is how poised and efficient he was at such a young age which is why I am not surprised about him being a first round pick.
How did head coach Chris Kraus help you give that last little push towards becoming a professional player?
Coach Kraus taught me how to carry myself a professional by the way I train on the court and coordinate myself off of the court. He also allowed for my last season in college to be filled with high level games that helped me build my confidence against elite players to give me a push going into my rookie year.
Who won a 1-1 in practice, you or Thatcher Stone?
Thatcher is a great player and we have a lot of similarities in our games as big wings but with all due respect, I take myself in one on one against anybody. Especially in my college career, I would often play king of the court against teammates after practice and be the last one standing.
Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA? I have been fortunate enough to play against and workout with many professional players that have made the NBA and seen how incredible they are with their games. The only time I was honestly surprised by a player’s ability was this past year when I played against UConn. I had to match up against Donovan Clingan and it was the first time I played against anyone that tall that had a great touch and could run the court well. It was an eye opening experience because it showed me what an NBA center is built like.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Now this is a tough question because I have had many great teammates throughout my career who were great players and people. I think being a great teammate has a lot to do with the obvious which is personal accomplishment but also team success and character. Going off of these metrics, I would have to say the best teammates I have had the pleasure of sharing the court with are Marcus Hammond in high school who played at Niagara University, then Notre Dame and is currently a professional in Europe. Early in my Molloy career I was able to play with Nick Corbett who was a 2000 point scorer in college and was MVP of our championship game. Late in my Molloy career I was able to play with Steve Torre who was a 1000 point scorer. Another teammate that I have had briefly at Molloy and still workout together in summer is James Montgomery who is a 1000 point scorer in college and is currently professional in South America. Last but not least, my best and favorite teammate of all time is my best friend Lewis who taught me the game of basketball and instilled a hard working attitude that I still use to this day. Any and every accomplishment I achieve I credit to Lewis and can’t thank him enough for being the best teammate ever. All five of these teammates I still speak to regularly and have become my brothers for life.
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?
My NBA Mount Rushmore is different from who I consider the best players of all time. I think the best players are Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal in that order. But my personal Mount Rushmore is Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant and Michael Beasley. These are four players that I personally love watching play the game of basketball and have watched hours of film to learn specific moves from. I think each of these players are complete players on both sides of the ball and are versatile enough to do anything on the court.
Who is your GOAT? My GOAT is Michael Jordan. I know I grew up after his playing career but Michael Jordan as a player and when looking at his career compared to others is untouchable to me. From the way he dominated the 90s and the influence he had on the basketball culture throughout the world, he is the greatest to pick up a basketball in my opinion.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone? I love Eddie Murphy as an actor and comedian and I think Coming to America is an amazing film. If I am being honest, I have not seen the sequel and cannot offer my opinion. Throughout the last few years I have noticed that a lot of sequels of all time classics have started to be released and a lot of them have great nostalgia. As someone who loves movies, I want to see some new ideas hit the cinema and become classics instead of repeating the past.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Tim Smith Jr in the Dragon Dome in 2024
Tim Smith Jr. (201-F-2000, college: N.Alabama, agency: 011 Sports) is a 24 year old 201cm forward playing his first season overseas with the Dragons Rhondorf. He began his basketball career at Lakewood high school and then played at 3 Universities. He began at California University of Pennsylvania (NCAA2) averaging 8.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 88.9%. He then played 2 seasons at Walsh University (NCAA2) averaging 10.9ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 72.1% and 16.1ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 87.1%. He then finished at the University of North Alabama (NCAA) averaging 9.4ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 79.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big win 94-72 win in Frankfurt
Congrats Tim on the big 94-72 win in Frankfurt. It was the first win in club history in Frankfurt. How good does it feel to achieve this? It feels amazing. We knew coming in that this was a big moment for the club, and to be the first team in history to win in Frankfurt is special. We came in locked in, played together, and executed the game plan really well. It’s a great feeling to make history with this group.
How big was the revenge factor after losing the last 3 times to Frankfurt and on a Trevian Bell buzzer beater last season in Frankfurt? The first loss in Rhondorf was tough a game that the Dragons should of won.
We wanted to come in and make a statement, not just for ourselves but for the club and the fans who’ve supported us through those tough losses.
How big was this win for the team. Coming off a tough loss at home against Leitershofen last weekend. The team seemed 100% prepared.
It was huge. After the Leitershofen loss, we knew we had to respond the right way. We had a strong week of preparation, focused on tightening things up on both ends, and came in ready to execute. Everyone was locked in from the start, and that showed in how we controlled the game. This win gives us a lot of confidence moving forward.
Frankfurt Skyliner Junior Jamie Edoka said after the game that they weren´t ready to face the Dragons and not on the same page. Did the Dragons want it more than Frankfurt?
I think we definitely came in with a stronger mindset. We had something to prove, and from the beginning, you could see the energy and intensity we played with. Every guy on the team was locked in and ready to compete, and I think that showed in how we took control of the game early and never let up.
The Dragons Rhondorf took control of the game from the second quarter onward and just managed the lead well. What did the Dragons Rhondorf do better on the defensive end to begin getting more consecutive stops?
We really tightened up our rotations and played more physical on defense. In the first quarter, they got some easy looks, but after that, we made adjustments, communicated better, and forced them into tougher shots. We also controlled the boards and limited their second-chance opportunities, which helped us get out in transition and build the lead.
In the second half, the offense continued to be very consistent. Has anything changed with how the offense works better now under new head coach Marko Zarkovic? Yes, there’s definitely been a shift. Coach Zarkovic has emphasized playing with better spacing and making quicker reads. He’s simplified our offensive sets in a way that allows us to play more freely while still being disciplined. The biggest difference is how we are attacking—there’s a clearer structure but also a focus on trusting instincts and moving the ball efficiently.
The team allowed only 72 points and gives up 89 points per game this season. What has Marko Zarkovic changed up or made adjustments that have allowed the team to not only keep flying around on the court but also grab rebounds better?
The biggest change has been defensive accountability. Coach Zarkovic has emphasized a more aggressive approach on defense while making sure we’re finishing plays by securing rebounds. We’ve focused more on positioning, communication, and making sure every guy is engaged in boxing out. He also made some adjustments to our rotations, making sure we have fresh legs at key moments to sustain our defensive intensity.
What have you enjoyed most about the coaching philosophy of Marko Zarkovic in the few weeks that you have known him?
I really like his energy and attention to detail. He holds everyone accountable, but at the same time, he gives us confidence. He wants us to play aggressive, fast-paced basketball, but in a smart and controlled way. His communication is also great—he’s clear about expectations and what he wants from each player.
You next play Coburg, who you beat in a grind-out game 62-58. This is another do-or-die game for the Dragons. Yeah, this is a huge game for us. Coburg is a tough team, and we know they’ll come in hungry for revenge after that last game. At this point in the season, every game is critical, and we have to approach it with the same intensity and focus we had against Frankfurt.
Kelvin Omojola stated after the game that the biggest strength of the Dragons Rhondorf was consistency and team. Is the team now 100% aware of how vital these last games are for the playoffs?
Absolutely. Every guy in the locker room knows what’s at stake. The mindset is clear—there’s no room for slip-ups. We have to bring it every game and stay locked in as a unit. The way we’ve been playing lately shows that we understand the urgency.
What was your impression of Jamie Edoka? He just turned 17 and is a starter in the Pro B. Could he be the next Isaac Bonga for Frankfurt?
Jamie is a talented young player. For someone his age, he already has a strong presence on the court and plays with confidence. He’s got good length, athleticism, and instincts, and if he keeps developing at this rate, I think he definitely has the potential to make a big jump in his career.
What was your impression of Malik Kordel? He has played between 40-50 pro games and destroyed the Dragons in the first game with a 16/21 game. He has offers from Michigan, Butler, and Villanova. How talented is he?
Malik is a special talent. He’s got great footwork, a strong frame, and a natural scoring ability that makes him tough to guard. His efficiency speaks for itself, and he’s only going to get better. You can see why he has those high-level college offers, he has the tools to be an elite player at the next level.
How big has Danas Kazakevicius been in the last months? Can one say that consistency has really rubbed off on him now? Danas has been huge for us. He’s stepped up in big moments and has really found his rhythm. You can see the confidence he’s playing with now—he’s making smart decisions, and being a steady presence on both ends. His consistency has been a big factor in our recent success.
Janne Müller had another great game and was the top scorer. He averaged 8.0 PPG last season and 13.6 PPG this season. Will this be his last Pro B season as he will be a full BBL player next season? I can imagine one has to enjoy every Pro B game now.
Janne has taken a big leap this season, and it’s been great to see his growth. He’s proven that he’s ready for the next level, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him playing in the BBL next season. For now, we’re just enjoying having him on the team and making the most of every game together.
Kenan Reinhart also has developed well in the last 6 weeks. He had a great start in Frankfurt, but why did he only play 13 minutes? Kenan has been playing really well, but it was just a matter of matchups and rotations in this game. Coach made adjustments based on what was working, and we had other guys stepping up too. It wasn’t about his performance, just about the flow of the game.
Marko Rosic had a tough stretch before the Leitershofen game but has since been great. Has he benefited from the new coach? I mean if I’m being honest I didn’t know he had a tough stretch, he comes to practice everyday and works his butt off and he gives everything he has to the team and I think he’s just playing with more confidence and we need that to make a push.
He really stepped up in the last 2 games and put Kelvin Omojola a bit in the shadow. How important is that competitiveness in a team at a stage like now, both for him and Kelvin? Competition within the team is always a good thing. It pushes everyone to be better, and at this stage of the season, we need guys stepping up. Marko playing at a high level doesn’t take anything away from Kelvin, it just makes us deeper and stronger as a team.
Kelvin Omojola had a tough game against Leitershofen with 5 turnovers and 4 in the first quarter. You sparkle with actions, but did you give him some vocal support after his tough first quarter? Of course. Everyone has tough stretches, and as teammates, we’ve got to pick each other up. I just reminded him to stay aggressive and trust his game. He’s a leader for us, and we all believe in him, so it was just about helping him reset and move forward.
How important has the leadership been of Kelvin Omojola? What have you liked most about his game? Kelvin’s leadership has been crucial. He’s vocal, he sets the tone, and he keeps us organized on the floor. What I like most about his game is his ability to control the tempo and make plays for others. He’s a true floor general, and that’s something every team needs.
Let’s talk about your game. You destroyed Pro B competition in the first 7 games, and then a dramatic fall in production came. Why did that happen, and did the mental part affect your game after that? Early on, I was in a great rhythm, playing with confidence, and everything was flowing. Then teams started adjusting, I was getting different defensive looks, and I had to adapt. I probably overthought things at times instead of just playing my game. It’s a learning process, and I’m using it as motivation to keep growing. To me basketball isn’t about how many points you score but how you impact the game I think I impact the game on all sides and provide more impact than just putting the ball though the hoop.
The coaching change came and you put up the big goose egg in Speyer. There were rumors that you and Marko Zarkovic had a falling out. Was that true?
I think it’s a combination of a lot of things, I’m learning and growing as a player I believe I provide more value to a game then just scoring. The more I focus on just being a good teammate and trying to win the better I will play and the team will play. And that’s not true at all, we had a conversation after the game basically about what I need to do better to contribute to the team winning games other than that I think we have had a good relationship in the short time I’ve known him.
Since that game your back playing very well averaging 18 points and 6 rebounds. Do you feel like you will be able to step up your game even higher so the Dragons reach the playoffs?
I’m putting in the work everyday to be the best player for the team that I can and I’ll do everything within my abilities to help us reach the playoffs.
You had 5 blocks in the last 2 games and the most in a 2 game span this season. Has it been more due to effort or understanding the players better the second time around?
Probably effort, like I stated before I do more than just score the ball so I’ve been trying to focus on impacting the game in other ways so that I get in the flow of the game.
What is your biggest personal goal now in the last games besides giving all you have for the team?
My biggest goal now is to control what I can control, go out every night and put on show for the wonderful fans we have and try and make a run.
Were the Dallas Mavericks jinxed this season? Dante Exum is out with a broken hand. They currently only have 8 players. How crazy is that?
Yeah, Dante Exum’s broken hand adds to an already insane injury list. They’re down to just eight available players, and with key guys like Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, and Dereck Lively II out, it’s starting to feel like they’re cursed. If things get worse, they might not even meet the NBA’s minimum roster requirements.
Jordan Notch (203-F-1997, college: ASU) is a 27 year old 203cm forward from Minnesota playing his second professional season with the BBC Twisters Rendsburg (Germany-Regionalliga). Last season as a rookie he played with Vellaznimi Gjakove (Kosovo-Superliga) and Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D1). He began his basketball career at Waconia high school and then played 2 seasons at Southwestern Illinois College (JUCO) averaging 4.1ppg, 2.5rpg and 10.4ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 64.0%, FT: 76.7%. He then played 2 seasons with Lincoln University (NCAA2) averaging 5.0ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 52.9% and 3.5ppg, 2.3rpg. He then played at Adams State University (NCAA2) averaging 13.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 66.0%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 85.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Jordan for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?
No problem, I appreciate you reaching out. I’m in Rendsburg, Germany where I have made some great relationships, not only with my team, but with many people in the community by being here for 8 months now and the coaching I do with the kids. As far as basketball life, it’s good and I’m grateful where I’m at. It’s a blessing to be back playing the game I love after taking time away from the game for a while. I’m really looking forward to this last game in Berlin and finishing my first full season back on the court, then returning home to attack the offseason to get better and prepare for my next opportunity.
You’re playing your second professional season and first in Germany with BBC Twisters Rendsburg (Germany-Regionalliga). Last season you played in Kosovo and Malta and now in the fourth division in Germany. Why did you go from first division teams to 4th division in Germany?
The drop in level came from injury and taking time off. I had to leave Kosovo Super-league due to injury. Then I had to leave Malta after my in-season transfer to get surgery on my Kosovo injury. It was really hard making that decision as I probably could have played a little over 2 months more there. I was playing really good too while being injured, but I had to make the best call for both my health and basketball career. With this move, I decided to take time off and really get healthy and focus on my life at home too. Taking time off meant I would have to sacrifice level and pay to get back in the market when I was ready. No matter how good you are, it’s tough to get a job in this market after taking time off. As far as coming to 4th division and Germany, I wanted to come here for many reasons. Yes it’s 4th division, I know I can play higher level so it gets frustrating sometimes but it’s part of the comeback process in this market. The most important factor was going somewhere back in a good country with high level basketball close to where I’m playing, and I wanted to return to the European market on a team where I will get on the court a lot to show I’m back. I have had my eye on the top league here in Germany for a while now as I have multiple friends from back home playing in the BBL. I also have a lot of family history in Germany with some family living in Stuttgart currently, so Germany was the most mentioned country in my home growing up. It was a lot of reasons that led to Germany feeling like the perfect fit when I got the call.
How was the off season signing time? Do you represent yourself or did you have assistance from an agent? The off season signing time was great. I am represented by Vedran Pavlicevic with Starting 5 sports. I have been with him since my first job in Kosovo and he has been great supporting me through my injury and time off. Rendsburg was the first offer to come in shortly after I told Vedran I was ready to go, and I signed shortly after talking to Coach.
Rendsburg haven´t had a great season. The team lost many close games and lack experience. What other factors have led to the losing season so far?
Based on my own expectations and goals, I would agree with you that we haven’t had a great season and could have done much better. As far as the factors that have led to our losses, there is a lot we could get into. But based on the season before me, and all of our local player’s goals they made in pre season, it’s been a good season with a step in the right direction to where this club wants to be, so I’m happy to have played a role in it. We now have 1 game left and sitting 1 win away from doubling the win total from last season while having less games on the schedule. We are currently 7th in the league which is also higher than our team’s goal after the 5-18 record last season. With all this in mind and knowing many of our losses were close games like you said, this club took a couple steps forward this season. You can technically call it a losing season due to our record. But I would not call it a “losing” season for me or our club after both my previous year away from the game, and this teams previous season.
You’re having a great personal season. Has Max Rockman given you the keys to the team? Thank you but I think personally I could/can do much better. I would not say he has given me the Keys, but I have been given a big role on the team that still has potential to still impact the game each time out so I’m grateful for that.
How have you and Max Rockmann gelled this season? He played 34 NCAA games and has easyCredit BBL experience. One can say he has seen it all. Yes, his experience is definitely a big part of why I came here. I want to move up to higher levels and there’s no one better to talk to and learn from than someone who played there not long ago to get a feel for what that level will be like. I try to soak in as much as possible from him from things he tells me, someone else, or just studying his reactions to the game so I know how higher level players think the game.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I would say my game has a mix of Kevin Durant, KG, and Kevin Love. I also would say I have picked up small things from other players. Pick and pop from Porzingis, post game / hook shot from Pau Gasol. I would say I get basketball mentality from Kobe / MJ. I learn outlet passing from K Love and Jokic, as well as Jokic ability to run the offense from the top of the key, and see passes others don’t to get his team open shots. I get guys open shots very easily in many different ways. I´m very good at playing 2 man games like Jokic and reading defenses and reacting. I studied footwork in the post and how to seal guys from Al Jefferson and Nikola Pekovic when they played from my Timberwolves. I love studying players that are similar in height and match up nightmares that can do everything as thats what I feel my game is like. They back guys down, face up and attack, or shoot. At the end of the day I pride myself in playing the game the right way and making the right play, and the high percentage play. It’s really hard to say one player, because I learn many things from different types of players. I’m a very well rounded player that can do everything on the court and I can fit into teams in many different ways. This is why I believe my position changes so much depending on what team I am on, and what they need most.
Is it fair to say that you’re a modern day big man. It seems like this season you are showing it to the fullest extent.
The modern day big man label could be used for me this season because I have been playing mostly the 5 position. My role has been to play big and do the dirty work while I mix in things the “modern day” bigs are known for like shooting, passing, mobility, etc. In general, I would not call myself a modern day big though because I don’t see myself as a “big”. I have played with many guys bigger than me where I am the 4 or 3 which I believe is my true position at the highest level. I also have played the 5 position a bit, or big man role through my career due to being one of the tallest on my team, like this season. Even though I am very good at some things at the 5 position, I feel like at times falling into the 5 position can limit me offensively from using many of my offensive strengths, unless the offense is centered around the 5 like Jokic and the Nuggets where I can show my passing ability when I’m not scoring. Being a 5 in a lot of offenses leads to me setting multiple screens before touching the ball, or not touching the ball at all many possessions. Playing with a true big man opens up my game a lot and allows me to ball handle more while also being in more actions where screens are set for me to read and score off instead of always being the one setting them. I am really good at coming off a down screen or cross screen. I’m also great at reading the floor and setting screens whether it’s down screen, flare screen, or others. So it’s best when I can mix them in and do both. At the end of the day, I’m just a 6ft8 (203cm) basketball player. I fell into the “big” position this year due to my height and their need for a physical presence in the post, screens, and rebounding. But I really see myself as a position less player that is very highly skilled offensively, high IQ, and can do anything on the floor, which is why I think my position changes so much through my career based on what a team/coach needs.
You never averaged as many rebounds in a season like this season at 13,2rpg. What is your secret to rebounding?
I’m hungry. I think that’s the number 1 thing that I would give credit to averaging so many rebounds. After sitting out over a year and taking time away from the game for the first time in my life, I really am grateful to be back, and hungry to make a big impact any way I can. I say rebounding is about 80% hunger, effort, and heart because without these, you just won’t average a lot of rebounds. I also take pride in having a high motor, which helps a lot in rebounding. You got to love physicality, especially when you are a lighter weight “big” like me going against heavier bodies and taller bigs. Sometimes footwork won’t get the job done, and you need to know how to stand your ground and know how to use leverage. When that ball goes up you got to think it’s yours when it’s leaving their hand. You need that hunger that has you naturally chasing the ball. Sometimes the player who gets the rebound, only gets it because they worked harder. But also I would say it’s about 20% skill involved. Even though hunger and effort are huge, there is a lot of skill and technique to rebounding. My father was a true big in his time playing, and he taught me the art of boxing out, different footwork and tricks to get in position. There are also important things like having quick reaction timing to the ball off the rim, and studying how to read the ball like how the ball will come off the rim while it’s in the air and from where it’s shot from. You can read if a ball is short or long from reading someone’s jump shot sometimes. Having a good second jump, and learning to tip rebounds to yourself when battling against multiple guys are both valuable to rebounding as well. There is a lot to rebounding. Rebounding is very important, and most don’t realize it until they lose a game because of a missed rebound or 2. Extra possessions on offense and holding people to 1 shot can mean a lot to how a game goes.
Would you classify yourself still as a raw defender? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? You could say I’m a raw defender, as I’m always trying to learn more. But I would also say I’m a very experienced defender as I have played with and against many great players as well as for some great coaches. Right now I feel like I’m a good defender but there is always so much to get better at. I want to become a player that can guard 1 through 5 at the highest level. I’m always working on getting stronger and more athletic so I can guard bigs, as well as working on my foot speed and side-to-side movement so I can guard quick, skilled point guards. On top of the training, I´ always scouting and studying tricks to make good defensive plays and stop good offensive moves.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to raise your game to the next level?
This is a tough question, because I’m always working on different things or studying the game to make me a better player. I’m my own biggest critic. Like I said before, I have a MJ / Kobe mentality. Some would say I drive myself crazy sometimes thinking about ways to get better or critiquing my game. The things I work on most during this last month or 2 are things I don’t do much on the court this season in the big man role so I’m prepared to be that 1-5, position less player when I move up to a higher level next season. In my individual time I make sure to work on ball handling, dribbling/scoring iso moves from the wing, shooting 3’s, coming off down-screens, fade screens, cross screens, as well as doing defensive slides and other things that will help me guarding high level guards or bigs. I also watch film a lot on both myself and others as it is huge for growth and learning to the game. I’m also very excited to get home for the summer so I can go against the NBA, euroleague, and other high level pros that I know around my area. This is always great for sharpening your game up before the next season.
You played your rookie season with Vellaznimi Gjakove (Kosovo-Superliga) and Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D1). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
Kosovo had a couple wake up calls. I wasn’t aware that you shouldn’t drink the tap water in Kosovo especially when you have never left the U.S., so me and another teammate got very sick from a stomach virus. It was terrible. It was the most sick either of us have ever been. They were wheeling IV’s into our apartment to heal us. Also when so many people were smoking cigarettes inside the gym that it was hard to see during the game and the air tasted like cigarettes during the game. That was definitely a moment where I knew I was far from home. Going to Kosovo for my first stop overseas was quite an experience in many ways. As far as the basketball side of wake up calls, I had 3 vet imports in Kosovo I’m real grateful for, and they really taught me a lot about the pro basketball world. 1 big came from G League and another plays in the G league now. The veteran guard was very experienced as well. They really taught me a lot, and helped me more than they know during my short time in Kosovo.
You won your first pro title as a rookie in Malta. What was so special about that team? Our team won it that year, but I left about 2 months before playoffs to get surgery on the ankle that I hurt in Kosovo. I probably could have gone home after my release to get it fixed, but I was already in Europe and had been in contact with my Malta coach before accepting Kosovo. He knew about my injury and I felt like I could play on it after taking a few weeks off. I don’t regret going to Malta as it was a great experience. We had a great team, almost undefeated in my time there. It really hurt to leave and I felt terrible about it for a while, but I had to make the best decision for my health and career. I was playing really good for being injured too and we were winning, but I was pushing an ankle that was messed up. After almost 3 months playing there, I knew it was more than just a bad ankle sprain and I’m grateful I made that hard decision to return home to get it fixed. I’m very proud of my team for finishing the job, and happy I left early enough so they were able to sign 2 imports to replace me and still bring home the championship with the great season we were having.
You sat out last season. Were there doubts of continuing your journey overseas or was the job market the obstacle?
I would say I never had any doubts in myself if I could continue. The only doubts I had during that time were in the job market because like you said it is an obstacle, especially when you take over a year off. It can be frustrating at times if you find out a team goes with a different player, or if you can’t get in a level you know you can play at. But you got to remember these GMs and coaches that have you on their recruiting board don’t know you personally, haven’t seen you play in person, know how you think the game, or know how much work you put in. You just got to stay patient and remember if you can really play basketball and you play ball the right way, they will find you and your time will come.
You played 2 seasons at Southwestern Illinois College (JUCO). Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have reported that JUCO was a real grind, but one they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you? It was everything I never knew I needed. I played under Jay Harrington, Hall of Famer and one of the most respected JUCO coaches in the country. I could go on forever about stories and my experience that made me the person and player I am today. Each stop I have made, I played different roles and grew differently. But JUCO was a very special time of my career and life.
In Juco you averaged 4.1ppg, 2.5rp and in your second season 10.4ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 64.0%, FT: 76.7%. How did your game grow under head coach Jay Harrington?
Coach Harrington taught me so much through my years. As well as his assistant Campo. Harrington is an old school style coach and at times I may have wanted to quit, but thank God I didn’t. He is a hall of famer for a reason. I also played under a top big man duo my freshman year, the best returning player in the conference who I learned a lot from, as well as the best player out of Missouri who is now in the G League so I had to wait my turn. While I waited, I went against them everyday in practice and it helped a lot. When my time came the next year, the all American moved on and I played next to the best player in Missouri who ended up finishing top in the country in PPG, while I also made a big jump myself and started applying many things I learned my first year.
You then made the jump to Lincoln University (NCAA2) averaging 5.0ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 52.9% and 3.5ppg, 2.3rpg. What kind of an experience were these 2 years for you? You averaged 13 minutes per game in those 2 seasons. Did you have a special role?
I really loved everything about Lincoln off the court. I had full intention of graduating there. But on the court, my playing time and my role, and some other things just didn’t make sense. Many things happened that were out of my control and would make most people quit, but I stuck with it and kept who I was in mind at all times as well as my pro basketball vision.
You then finished at Adams State University (NCAA2) averaging 13.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 66.0%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 85.7%. How refreshing was this season for you being able to play a major role for the team? How did your game grow as a senior?
It was very refreshing. I loved Lincoln University and planned on ending my college career there. But when it came to basketball, it just wasn’t a good fit for me to be seen for the pro level. Leaving Lincoln was tough to do, but it ended up paying off. I honestly don’t think my game really grew at Adams State, but I was just able to play my game that I had been working on for so long while I was playing in limited roles or not playing much at all. But Adams State let me play my game when I was on the court. I felt more comfortable than ever, which led to setting FG% records and ranking high in other efficiency stats in the country. This led to agents contacting me and I finally saw my long journey making sense and my vision coming together.
You had many solid games at Adams State. Was your 20 points in the win over NMHU one of your fondest memories there? You shot 9/11 in the win plus 8 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 blocks.
It definitely was because my whole family made the trip out to watch that game. It was a special game to play good in with my parents, girlfriend, and best friend all making the flight there to watch and spend time with me for my birthday weekend. She is now my wife, and he was my best man at my wedding, so it was truly a special weekend.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Malik Moore? Me.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA?
I would probably say Michael Porter Jr and his brother Jontay. Or Amir Coffey as I matched up against him in High School. Jay Scrubb was in our conference in JUCO. There are many NBA or overseas players I could list, but when it comes to toughest I faced, I’ll give that to Michael Porter Jr.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Jalen Suggs
Anthony Adger
Javonte Perkins
Will Brown
Damonte Dodd
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Michael Jordan, KD, Anthony Edwards, KG
5th man honorable mention (one of my favorite players and people in the game) : Jamal Crawford
Alex Barcello (188-G-1998, college: BYU) is a 26 year old 188cm guard from Arizona playing his third professional season and first with o Monbus Obradoiro CAB Santiago de Compostela (Spain-Primera FEB). He began the season with easyCredit BBL club MLP Academics Heidelberg averaging 11,2ppg, 3,3rpg and 3,1apg. Last season he played Acunsa Gipuzkoa BC San Sebastian (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging19.6ppg) 4.1rpg, 3.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 90.0%. He played his rookie season with Kolossos H Hotels Rodou (Greece-GBL) averaging 4.0ppg, 1.8rpg, in Nov.’22 moved to Filou Oostende (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 7.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 47.3%, FT-1 (94.7%). He began his basketball career at Corona del Sol high school and then played 2 years at the University of Arizona and then finished at Brigham Young University (NCAA) averaging 16.1ppg, 4.7rpg, 4.3apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 47.7%, FT: 85.6%, 16.8ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 86.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball during his time in Germany.
Your playing your third pro season and first with German team MLP Academics Heidelberg. You saw 3 nice countries with Greece, Belgium and Spain, but how does Heidelberg and it´s castle compare? Heidelberg is a great spot, but every place I have been in has been great. We visit the castle a lot to have a snack. It is a extremely nice city. The people are nice and we are really enjoying it here
What kind of an experience has it been playing with the MLP Academics Heidelberg? What have you appreciated most about the experience?
I think what I have appreciated the most is how genuine the people are. The people are humble, but at the same time want to grow as a club. I like how the club interacts with all. It is all very well organized here and super professional. There is good energy and that makes it a lot more fun when your around good people.
How does the BBL compare to the other leagues that you have played in so far? Is the BBL the strongest league that you have played in? Especially how does the LEB Gold compare to it?
I think that the BBL is comparable to the physicality in Greece. Belgium was a good league and Spain was super tactical. I really have liked every style I have seen. In the BBL, every game matters. You have to battle and compete every night. It doesn´t matter if a team is 4th or 15th, they can beat you on any given night. It is really fun as a competitor to play in the BBL.
You led the Leb Gold in scoring. Do you feel pressure to have to make the next step in the BBL? I don´t feel pressure. I put a lot of trust in the work I put in and with the coaching staff I have to help me grow. I think that when you have a lot of trust, that helps take away the pressure. Growing is a process that I need to enjoy.
What is your focus and goal this season with your game? What steps do you want to make?
I want to show that I´m a competitor and that I can do what the teams needs me to do. I have proved in my career that sometimes my team needed me to create well, while other times I needed to score. I want to be able to read the game at a high level. I believe in playing the game the right way and want to continue to get to a high level step by step.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 188cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would fit the description the best? I think one could compare my game to a Payton Pritchard. The mid range is a big part of my game.
You are an incredible shooter. What other strengths does your game have? Versatility seems to be a big part of your game as well? Yes it is. I can create for my teammates, but that is still an area that I´m trying to progress in. I want to be able to get guys in spots where they can be most successful. For example being able to help a Weathers speed up the game or help Mikesell with his pick and pop game. I want to become more of a floor general. My rebounding is underrated. I believe I´m able to sneak in more rebounds.
You continue to shoot over 40% in your career? Where do you see the development of your three pointer? How far away are you from being an elite shooter?
In my mind, I think I´m there. But I feel like I can still expand my game off the dribble and increase my range by dragging out the defense. I have always believed in my shooting.
What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I think that I´m a solid defender. I think that I can handle 1-1 defense. I´m stronger than what people may think. I want to increase my pressure so I can guard 30-40 minutes full on pressure. I want to have guys have to play on their heels.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
I´m working on finishing better around the basket as well as being able to pass the ball better with the opponent throwing different defenses at me.
You played last season for Acunsa Gipuzkoa BC San Sebastian (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 19.6ppg), 4.1rpg, 3.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 90.0%. How important was this season for your progression as a player? You had massive scoring games of 39 and 36 points. How did your game grow? My game grew just from the tactics. I got a better understanding of the European game. It helped my game that I was the lead guy on the team. I saw that I was the main focus and was efficient.
You played an exciting 5 games series against Burgos, What will you always remember from that series and what did you learn from it? I remember we were blown out in the first game, but then came back and gave them a really hard fought series. We just couldn´t pull it out. I learned just how intense the playoffs can be and that the team needs to come together and learn to push through it
You split your rookie season with Kolossos H Hotels Rodou (Greece-GBL) averaging 4.0ppg, 1.8rpg, in Nov.’22 moved to Filou Oostende (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 7.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 47.3%, FT-1 (94.7%). How tough was this season and what did you learn about yourself? It was difficult to learn different styles and having a small role. I just tried to keep fighting through it and figure out a way to find ways to make it. I understood that it was a work in progress. I was happy how I came out of it and knew that I had to keep working.
You played against Panathinaikos losing but scoring 5 points. What was it like competing against long time NBA guys like Derrick Williams and Nate Wolters?
It was nice competing against high level players. I had to match up against Paris Lee who played in the BBL with Bamberg. I didn´t play much, but scored a few points. I saw close up how high the tempo and skill level was. I would like to be at a level like that. I know I have to take it step by step.
In Belgium you were teammates with legend Dusan Djordjevic. How vital was he for you in your time there? Was he like a mentor for you? He won so many titles with them. He was a great mentor. Once a week, we would go out and watch Euroleague games and talk about the game.
In the summer of 2022 you played NBA summer league with the Toronto Raptors. What kind of an experience was that for you? Do you feel like you were able to hold your own in the minutes you got? I think I did. In one game I played 20 minutes. I tried to get the most out of it. I believe that I belonged out there. I always believe that I belong out on the court with whoever is there. I go out and compete and put in the work. The difference is always how much more you want it than your opponent. It was a great experience. The Raptors are a great organization that also loves defense.
You played at the University of Arizona from 2017-2019 never averaging more than 9 minutes or 3,0ppg. Was this a tough learning process for you? What positives could you take from it?
It was a great experience. I played together with really talented guys like Deandre Ayton, Rawle Alkins, Alonzo Trier and Parker Jackson-Cartwright. It was a tough transition coming from high school to playing against men. I knew that I had a lot of work ahead of me. It was hard not playing much. I didn´t like that.
You were teammates with Parker Jackson Cartwright there who had his break out season in Germany with Bonn some years ago. What memories do you have of him? Did he have the heart of a lion? Yes I would say so. He was even smaller than me. He made the game look so easy. He always competed and was so quick and knew how to get into the paint. He really inspired me what he did with Bonn. I was really thankful having a senior like that coming in.
You then played at Brigham Young from 2019-2022 and really broke out as a scorer in your last 2 seasons. How did your game grow there?
I was a role guy my first season. A sort of glue guy as well. I was a shooter that guarded the other teams best offensive player. Then many main guys left and I got trust from coaching staff and got the next role. The coaching staff saw the work I put in and I took the opportunity and all went well.
You reached the NIT Elite 8 in your senior year and had many great games. What was your fondest moment on the court? You had big games against Pepperdine and San Francsico. My fondest moment was when I was the role guy and we beat #2 at the time Gonzaga. We beat them on our home floor and the fans stormed the court. That was a great feeling. I went like 7/7 against San Francisco and 9/10 against Pepperdine.
How did head coach Mark Pope groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
He just told me to go out and take it. He tole me that there are so many guys competing for limited roles that you have instincts that will help you beat them out.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Te´Jon Lucas? I don´t think that we ever played. H e was a great talent, but I would beat him.
Who was the toughest player that you ever played against on a court in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Carson Edwards. I was a freshman and we played against Purdue. Nothing crazy happened. They won. I came in and hadn´t lifted weights before and I could see the difference. He was super strong and super athletic.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Zac Seljaas, Aleksandar Marcius, Dusan Ristic, Yoeli Childs, Dalton Nickson
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? Jordan, Kobe, Lebron, Shaq
Who is your GOAT? Michael Jordan
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I never saw it. Maybe they should of. I need to put it on my watch list.
Andre Wesson (198-F-1997, college: Ohio St., agency: Players Group) is a 27 year old 198cm forward from Ohio playing his fourth professional season and first with Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL). Last season he played with at Budapesti Honved SE (Hungary-A Division) averaging 12.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 75.0%. In the 2022-2023 season he split time with Anorthosis Ammohostou (Cyprus-OPAP) averaging 11.7ppg, 7.7rpg, 2.0apg, in Jan.’23 moved to KFUM Nassjo Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging12.0ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 78.6%. He played his rookie season with Lapuan Korikobrat (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 16.1ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 63.7%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 80.2%. He began his basketball career at Westerville South High school and then played at Ohio State (NCAA) from 2016-2020 playing a total of 126 games and as a senior averaged 9.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 80.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.
Thanks Andre for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your fourth professional season and have seen many countries. You keep grinding and moving up the ladder now in a strong league in Poland. Do you have a chip on your shoulder after coming from top NCAA school Ohio State? For sure, coming from a top school like Ohio State, and playing a big role for the team that was ranked high during my time there. I think we were number 2 in the country twice, and thought I had a good year especially my senior season. So to go from that to not even playing the following year whether that was G-league or overseas was really a shock to me and a wake up call I would say. It was definitely a rough time for me and made me look in the mirror about what I could do better, and something that I try to carry with me even today.
Your playing your first season with Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you and what have you enjoyed most from the experience?
It’s been a great experience so far. I’m in a great city with plenty of things to do, good food and great people in the organization who are always trying to make things easier for you so you can just focus on basketball. The thing I’ve enjoyed the most here are my teammates. Of course we come in everyday focused on work and getting better, but these guys make it fun too. Being one of the younger players on the team I’ve learned from these guys too about taking care of your body and having a routine. It can be a long season, especially this time of year for guys like me being so far from home, but my teammates have made it better and kept me focused on the task of winning games and getting better everyday.
Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL) is in the middle of the pack in the Polish first division. What does the club have to do better in the next 2 months to reach the playoffs?
Yea we started off pretty good and were winning games because of our defense. We weren’t the best team offensively but our defense was good enough to get it done. We’ve hit a little rough patch here recently which is a little understandable, I mean we got 2 new players in the matter of 3-4 weeks. It’s helped us offensively. I think we’re playing at a good pace offensively and moving the ball well, so I’m excited to see what we can do in these next 2 months. I think if we get back to what we were doing at the beginning of the year on defense which is on all of us, I think we could really do something special honestly.
Your playing Bamberg in the ENBL quarterfinals. Your still searching for your first pro chip. What kind of a series can we await?
It’ll be a battle for sure. They have some really good players over there, my guy Ibi Watson that I played travel basketball with in high school and have played against on every level it feels like now. I played against Noah Locke when I was in Hungary, so I’m familiar with some of their players, and know that it’ll be a challenge. I know that we’re ready for it though and wouldn’t want it any other way. We feel like we match up well with anybody that we play, and know that when we play to the level we are capable of for 40 minutes we’re a tough team to beat. Personally, I know that the ultimate compliment you can get in a team sport is to be labeled as a winner. So getting this first pro championship for me would be huge and something that I don’t take lightly.
Bamberg are the favorite on Paper. What will be key to getting by them and advancing? Yea like I stated early I think it all starts for us on the defensive end. Offensively we need to keep doing what we’re doing, getting the best shot available every time down court, taking care of the ball and playing with pace. I think if we continue to do that and get back to our defensive identity we’ll be just fine not just for this series, but the ones later on as well.
What has it been like sharing the court with Swedish national player Denzel Andersson. What have you appreciated most about his game? It’s been great. I mean some of the things he’s able to do on the defensive end you can’t even teach. He can guard multiple positions and using his length to block and alter shots is nothing like I’ve seen in person close up. Coupled with his ability to shoot the ball he’s one hell of a player. And as good as a player that he is,he’s an even better person which makes it even better he’s my teammate.
You’re a guy that gives good scoring qualities, but all in all fill up then stat sheet. What is your role on the team?
I think it’s just that. A guy who fills in the gaps for the team, whether that’s scoring, rebounding or defending, it’s whatever the game calls for that specific day or night that I can do it.
You’re a 198cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?
That’s tough. I feel like there’s not really anybody who would fit exactly, but just some who are close or come to mind would be Derrick White, Christian Braun or Terrance Mann. Guys who are kind of glue guys on their team, who are versatile and just competing, doing whatever that game calls for to get the win.
Talk a little about your strengths on offense. You also give good support with your outside shot. What is your biggest asset in your game? Offensively I think my best asset is my versatility. I feel like I’m a guy that can post up, I can play off the ball in a catch in shoot and can play in pick in rolls and create. I think I don’t do one thing that just stands out as amazingly well, but a lot of things are good.
How would you describe your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind do you still want to become?
I think I’m a very good defender. I can guard multiple positions, I’m good in post defense and 1 on1 perimeter defense. I use my length well to bother and block shots. There’s still things I can be better at to become the elite defender I want to be. I think I need to be better in close out situations, I’d like to get a little stronger so I can guard even more positions and get better in consistently navigating screens better in pick and roll situations. I think if I do these things I can become elite.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
Just continuing to work on my outside shot mainly catch and shoot situations. Also working on playing out of close out situations and making decisions and reads quicker, and as a stated early getting a little stronger. Not like I don’t feel strong now, but I think adding more strength to my lower body and core could add even more to my game.
Last season you balled with Budapesti Honved SE (Hungary-A Division) averaging 12.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 75.0%. You had a long playoff run. What will you always remember from that playoff grind?
The biggest thing I learned and remember from that playoff run was its being a lot more physical and very tactical. Being in these series these teams know all your tendencies and throw things at you to put you in uncomfortable situations. I think the key to it is instead of letting it affect you in any way, that’s when you should lock in even more and find a way to get it done. I think at times last year especially in the first series I would let some of the things they’d do affect me and take me out of my game instead of locking in more and just figuring it out. I think I was able to do that in the last 2 series and it helped me a lot.
In your second pro season you split time with Anorthosis Ammohostou (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) averaging 11.7ppg, 7.7rpg, 2.0apg, in Jan.’23 moved to KFUM Nassjo Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 12.0ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 78.6%. How tough was this season? You saw how basketball can be a business. What did you learn about yourself in this season?
It was really tough. As you said it was the first time that I really got to see how the business of basketball works. I had come off a pretty good year in Finland personally, team wise I wish we could’ve done more that year, but I thought I had made a big step in my game that first year. It was a rough first month in Cyprus. I got sick and was out for a week and a half, and other circumstances were going on. I never really was able to get comfortable and get back to the form that I was at. I got pretty close with some of my teammates out there so getting cut hurts, and made me realize that teams aren’t going to be patient with you always. Just like you have a job to do so do they, and that’s putting a team out there that they feel gives them the best chance to win. So I didn’t take it too personally, but it was definitely something that even today that I carry with me. Luckily, I was able to be picked up mid way through the year that season by Nassjo and was able to have a decent year there. It was a wild and difficult year, but I learned a lot and honestly wouldn’t want to change anything about it.
In Sweden you were swept by Norrkoping in the playoffs. What made it so difficult getting by them?
They were a really good team. I think the thing that stood out the most about playing them was their depth. It felt like anytime that they made a change or sub that they didn’t have any drop off. They had size, experience and players that were threats at all positions. They were well coached too, I mean there’s a reason I think they’ve won that league three straight years. You could tell that a lot of them had played together for some years with how connected they were offensively and defensively.
You played your rookie season with Lapuan Korikobrat (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 16.1ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 63.7%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 80.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
My wake up call happened as soon as I got to the city. Lapua was a very small town, super quiet wasn’t much to do which is different from where I’m from. That was the first time I ever saw that much snow, and it got dark around 3 in the afternoon which I didn’t even think was possible. The people there are great people though, they helped me a lot with my adjustment and tried their best to make you feel comfortable. I had great teammates while I was there also so it ended up being a good time. Wish we could’ve won more games, but after not playing my first year out of college I was just glad to be playing again.
You had some high scoring games at the end of the season like 30 points against the Bisons and 29 points against Korhait. What was your fondest moment on and off the court in Finland?
Like I said I had great teammates. There wasn’t much to do off the court, but we still had some good times just hanging out with each other after practices and games. The best memory I had though was at the end of the year we went skiing, and that was the first time I had ever done that so that was pretty cool. The best on the court memory was probably when we beat Lahti at home. At the time I don’t think they had beaten them in two years or so, pretty much the whole game we were down and at the end I got hot and we were able to beat them in overtime. That was pretty cool seeing how happy everybody in the organization was after that game.
You played at Ohio State from 2016-2020 and reached 2 NCAA tournaments. Which run was sweeter? You lost to Gonzaga and Houston?
The run that was sweeter to me was the 2019 year when we upset Iowa St. We were on the bubble that year, and didn’t even know if we were going to be in the tournament. We had a super up and down year, I mean I think at one point we were #10 in the country and then we got to January and didn’t win a game that whole month. Towards the end of that year we were able to get some big wins and found our way into the tournament. Got placed against a really good Iowa St team with Tyreese Haliburton, Talen Horton-Tucker, Marial Shayok I think they had just won the Big 12 tournament so nobody had us winning that game. To be able to upset a team like that was huge for our team, unfortunately we played another really good Houston team the next game and wasn’t able to get it done. But that was a good time just being able to get into the tournament after such a crazy year and get a win. The 2018 year I felt like we let that one get away when we played Gonzaga. We felt like we had a really good team that year and could’ve done something special, so to lose that game especially the way that we did really hurt. That year we had a good chance of winning the Big Ten so we felt like we could’ve done more than what we accomplished.
You played 2 seasons with future NBA player Keita Bates-Diop. What was it like for you seeing him perform and what kind of an influence did he have on you? Man Keita Bates-Diop was a hell of a player. My Freshman year he got hurt and wasn’t able to play the majority of that year, and it hurt our team for sure. Just seeing the way that he came back that following year was special though. Just the way he attacked everyday in practice and leading up to that year in his workouts you knew that he was going to have a great season that following year, and he did. I think he was Big Ten Player of the year, and I think he was an All-American also. It was a special year for him and our team. If it wasn’t for the buzzer beater loss to Penn State that year we could’ve won the Big Ten regular season championship. I think him and Jae’sean Tate had a big influence on all of us in how hard you have to work, and the energy you have to bring everyday to be the best version of yourself.
You had many great games and wins like beating Michigan and Kentucky in your senior year. What was your fondest moment there?
That year was a movie, it’s hard to really even explain everything that we went through that year. From losing teammates, to being ranked #2 In the country two different times it had so many ups and downs. I just really wish that it wouldn’t have been cut short by Covid to see how it would’ve ended. We beat a lot of good teams that year, and I personally think that we could have accomplished a lot. I have a lot of great memories from that year from winning at North Carolina, beating Kentucky in Las Vegas, beating Michigan home and away. I had great teammates too that made even off the court fun, so that was a special year and something that I’ll never forget.
How did Chris Holtman groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
He taught me a lot in my time there. Him and Coach Matta I learned a lot from them both. They taught me what it looks like to work hard, and the sacrifices that you have to make for the betterment of the team. That just going to practice and doing team stuff isn’t enough if you want to be the best. That you should leave a program better off than it was before you got there. I learned how to be a better man in my time there, and how important relationships are. So I’m very grateful for them and the role that they played in my life.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?
The toughest player I faced was probably Jayson Tatum or Malik Monk. Malik Monk scored 50 points against my team in AAU with Coach Calipari there and it was the easiest 50 points I’ve ever seen in my life. He had the first 9 points of the game before 30 seconds had run off the clock. Jayson Tatum was the toughest player I had to face; he just didn’t have any real weaknesses offensively.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?
My 5 best teammates are one my brother, of course he’s my brother, but to be the best player on my team and be so unselfish is a testament to him as a person. Two would probably be CJ Jackson, just another guy that was so unselfish and would do anything for you. Three would be Kam Williams, probably one of the hardest workers I’ve ever been around and made you want to push yourself to be in the gym because you knew he was. Four would be Jelani Rodgers, a guy that I played with in high school. He was our point guard and another one that just worked so hard was always in the gym and sacrificed a lot for the team so we all could be successful. Five would be Jae’Sean Tate, he was also so unselfish and to a fault sometimes, but just how he brought it every single day and worked hard to be where he’s at now was inspirational to everybody on that team.
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? My NBA Mount Rushmore would be Micheal Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Kareem Abdul Jabbar
Who is your GOAT? My GOAT is LeBron James. It’s close though Michael Jordan was the standard, but for LeBron to have won everywhere that he’s been, do it for as long as he’s done it and the talent that he’s had to face and still win with little to nothing to work with is amazing to me. I get Mike was a killer and had to face a lot of talented players too, but people don’t ever bring up just how great the players around him were when he was winning those championships. Not to take anything from Mike, but Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Horace Grant, Tony Kukoc, Ron Harper these guys were dawgs. Let alone having one of, if not the greatest coach of all time in Phil Jackson.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I did see the sequel and it was bad can’t lie. Probably should have left it alone, but as long as Eddie Murphy wants to make a movie I’m all for it personally. He’s one of my favorite actors with so many classics it’s hard to tell him to leave any movie alone.
German Hoops 