basketball

There is Nothing Complicated with Trey Hubbard(Iserlohn) As He Makes Plays To Put His Team In The Best Position To Win.

Trey Hubbard (190-G-2002, college: C-N) is a 190cm guard playing his rookie season for German Pro B team Iserlohn Kangaroos. He began his basketball career at Northside Christian Academy and then played 2 seasons at Queens University (NCAA2). He then finished at Carson-Newman University (NCAA2) averaging 16.0ppg, 4.3rpg, 5.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 79.7% and 16.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 5.0apg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 73.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Trey for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with the Iserlohn Kangaroos. How was the summer transfer period? Was it difficult getting offers overseas?

Thank you! The summer period was good I was blessed to receive interest from many teams but I felt that the Iserlohn Kangaroos Were the best fit.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

I don’t know too much but I´m starting to learn more day by day just looking up fun facts about Germany and things like that.

Have you had any friends or opponents who have played in Germany over the years?

No sir

You had a fine NCAA 2 career. Not many guys come from NCAA 2 play overseas. How blessed do you feel? Is it like a dream come true?

Yes sir I am very thankful for the opportunity being a professional Basketball player is what I have worked for since I was 5 years old.

How did the talks go with head coach Toni Prostran? What did you appreciate right way about his basketball philosophy?

The Talks with Coach have been good mostly just introducing ourselves and seeing how we both think the game of Basketball. I appreciate how he wants to play with tempo that is something I also love to do.

Did you guys find something in common quickly? He was a pass first point guard and so are you.

Yes just about making my teammates and those around me better on and off the court.

With what kind of a mindset are you going into your overseas adventure? You will be playing in the 3rd league called Pro B Do you feel like you will be able to be an impact player? The American imports usually rock the league.

I’m going in with my same competitive mindset of wanting to be the best and wanting my team to succeed and compete for championships. I feel like I will be an instant impact player and try and help the team win in many ways.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say DeAaron Fox, We are both left handed and very quick with the ball.

You’re a pass first point guard, but can also score. What other strenghes does your game incorporate?

Just my ability to control the game, I wouldn’t box myself into a pass first or pure scoring guard but just a Point Guard who is making plays to put his team in the best position to win.

How big is your focus on being a 3 level scorer? How far are you from getting there?

I think I am 3 level scorer, I’ve been working hard this summer with my trainer Mike Jenkins on being effective in all spots of the court.

Talk a little about the development of your three point shot. You shot a great 39% last season at Newman. Your self-confidence must be sky high at the moment?

I just worked super hard last summer everyday getting reps to build the form and muscle memory so once I got in the game I did not really worry I just trusted the work.

The game overseas is more team orientated. This should help your playmaking. In what areas of your playmaking do you want to make the next step with as a rookie?

Less turnovers is the main goal

What kind of a defender are you and what are your goals on the defensive end in the next few years?

I am the type of defender who is going to compete and wants to guard the best player everyday and every game. This will help my development because they will only make me better over time.

You began your college career at Queens averaging 5,3ppg and 2,8pg. What kind of a experience were these 2 years playing for head coach Grant Leonard?

I had more experience my first year under Coach Lundy but he moved on after that season. Coach Grant was a good coach though he taught me a lot of lessons I use everyday.

You won the SAC title in 2022. What will you always remember from that run?

My teammates we were super close and did everything together, definitely miss those days !

You had some solid games at Queens like scoring 16 points and dishing out 8 dimes against YoungHarris. What was your fondest moment there?

Winning the Sac championship and going on a 17 game winning streak

You then finished at Carson-Newman University (NCAA2) averaging 16.0ppg, 4.3rpg, 5.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 79.7% and 16.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 5.0apg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 73.3%. How did your game grow in those 2 years?

I just learned how to play winning basketball, How to control the pace of the game speed it up sometimes but slow it down as well, while also learning how to get everyone involved.

You had so many great games against Tusculum, Lenoir-Rhyne and Newberry. What was your greatest game there?

LR was definitely the most fun game Double OT win against a ranked team back at home with the guys! You can’t beat that

How did head coach Chuck Benson groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

Coach CB helped me everyday. I can’t thank him enough he was always pushing me to be my best everyday and lead by example so I feel like that’s natural for me now. Work hard and lead by example is the blueprint to success.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Nick Brenegan?

Hahaha!, I don’t know you just had to be there it was always great competing against Nick and was even better competing with him. That is my brother for life!

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

Cam Thomas, straight buckets it was bad

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Kenny Dye, John Zhao, Jaden Seymour, Jamari Smith, CJ Huntley

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kobe, LeBron, MJ, Harden

Who is your Goat?

Kobe

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

Yeah they could’ve kept that one it was trash ??

Thanks Trey for the chat.

The Miles Vs Toru Dean Weekly Basketball Conversation Volume 1

Toru Dean (183-PG, college: Langston) is a 183cm guard from Miami Florida playing his rookie season overseas with the TSV Bargteheide Bees (Germany-Regionalliga). He began his basketball career with South Miami High School and then played 3 seasons at Barry University (NCAA2) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 65.1% and in his second season averaged 12.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.2%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 46.2%; and in his third season averaged 9.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 39.9%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 62.9%. He then finished at Langston University, OK (NAIA) averaging 10.3ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 81.0% and 9.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 69.4%. He teams up every week with germanhoops.com to talk basketball.

Congrats Tore on the 101-71 rout over ASC Goettingen. How good does it feel to be unbeaten this season?

This is something I’m kind of used to it but it’s only the beginning so I can’t rush to get the hopes up and be satisfied.

Talk about the 40 minutes. Was this a game that Bargteheide dominated from the start or was the opponent at times closer in the game than what the result shows?

It’s was a long ride that kind of drained me because of traffic and the rain or what not but we just been playing basketball at a high level. My teammates have been playing good defense and making go plays on offense for each other.

Bargteheide forced ASC Goettingen to 20 turnovers and you as a team won the rebound battle. What was the biggest strength of the team on this night?

Defensively we forced them to bad shots and turned the ball over. So I think defensively holding them to one shot opportunities really helped us

Marcel Hoppe had a great game with 27 points on 7 three´s. Is this guy the teams best shooter?

Marcel is the best shooter in the league hands down. Nice pretty pure shot maker.

You had a 13/3/3/2 game. How content were you with your own game?

Yes not my best game but my teammates was playing so good I didn’t have to do much. But definitely just happy to get the win.

You only scored 13 points in the last 2 games. Has the team shown early on that it has enough weapons so you don´t have to score 25 points a night to win?

Yes I agree the team has shown me that they’re playing at a high level and that might not need me to scored25 points a night but I will continue to get better so when my team and I are playing good the games wouldn’t be close. Just preparing so later in the season trying to find a grove of where I would fit and what the team needs.

The team is a scoring machine and defends solidly. You next battle Freibeuter who are 2-2. What will be key in getting win?

Being strong on the defensive end playing for each other to continue with our momentum.

Thanks Toru for the chat.

Jarrod Uthoff(Pallacanestro Trieste) May Have Had A Longer NBA Career Had Covid Not Happened

Jarrod Uthoff Dolomiti Energia Trentino Trento – Pallacanestro Trieste LBA FrecciaRossa Final Eight 2025 – Semifinali LBA Legabasket Serie A Unipol 2024-25 Torino, 15/02/2025 Foto AlessiaDoniselli // CIAMILLO-CASTORIA

Jarrod Uthoff (206-PF-1993, college: Iowa) is a 32 year old 206cm forward from Iowa playing his 10th professional season and second with Pallacanestro Trieste (Italy-Serie A). He began his career at Jefferson High School and then played at the University of Iowa (NCAA) from 2012-2016.He has G-Leaguee xpereince and played NBA games with Dallas and Memphis. Overseas he has played in countries like Russia and Japan. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against German team Wurzburg.

Thanks Jarrod for talking to germanhoops.com. You’re playing your second season with Pallacanestro Trieste (Italy–Serie A) and this is the first time overseas that you return to the same club for a second year. Has Allianz Pallacanestro Trieste become like a second home for you?

Uh, we came back here because we felt really comfortable. We like the city. It’s a good situation for us. So yeah, absolutely.

This is your second time overseas that you will play internationally in the Basketball Champions League, after playing in the EuroCup in 2018. How excited are you for this competition that you have never played in before?

Jarrod: I’m very excited. I’m really looking forward to it. I’m glad we got in and get to experience different cultures, play in different areas, and play really high-level basketball. So really, really, really excited.

How talented is this season’s Pallacanestro Trieste (Italy–Serie A) team? You and Jeffrey Brooks are massive veterans. What do you believe this team is capable of after reaching the playoffs last season, losing to Brescia?

You know, I think we were talented last year, and we’re talented this year. We have a chance to win a lot of games, and we’re going to win as many games as we can.

Let’s go back to the early part of your career. You played at Iowa from 2013–2016 and reached three NCAA tournaments, losing to Tennessee and Gonzaga. What do you remember most vividly from these two once-in-a-lifetime experiences?

Yeah, all three years. Very cool experience. Most people dream of playing in the college tournament, playing in the NBA, playing in your league or EuroCup or Champions League, and playing at the highest level possible of professional basketball. I consider myself incredibly blessed to be able to play at high levels throughout my career.

You beat North Carolina 60–55, a team that had eight future NBA players. You had 8 points, 11 rebounds and 5 blocks. Was that one of your most memorable games in the NCAA?

I’ve had a lot of memorable moments. That I definitely remember. It was really cool to be able to go to UNC and win at their place, in a cool environment.

How did head coach Fran McCaffery groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I don’t know how to answer that. Next question.

Who won a 1-on-1 in practice, you or Aaron White?

I never lost to him.

You played your rookie season with three G-League teams and then reached the NBA thanks to a 10-day contract with the Dallas Mavericks. What do you remember as your wakeup call to being an NBA player? Did you have to do any special duties, and how did the Mavs players view a 10-day contract player?

Yeah, I played my rookie season with two G-League teams, got a call-up to the Dallas Mavericks, and then played for their G-League team when I was called up and signed. You know, you get an opportunity to basically present yourself. You put your best foot forward, and they’re evaluating you—studying your movements, how you interact, how you are on the court, how you move, everything. They just give you an opportunity. You do lots of workouts; you’re the first guy there and the last guy there.

What was it like being teammates with the legend Dirk Nowitzki? You only hear positive stories about him and how he treated everyone equally. Do you remember having a meaningful conversation with him?

It was a very cool experience because I grew up really liking Dirk as a player. It was amazing. Yeah, he gave me a ride to the airport once when we had to leave for a road trip. We were chatting—it was a cool experience.

In your second pro season, you played with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants (NBA GLeague), averaging 16.4 ppg, 8.3 rpg, 2.5 apg, 1.1 bpg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 82.0%. You had a very consistent season. Did you ever feel like you were close to an NBA call-up?

Oh, absolutely. I turned down multiple NBA two-way contracts—that was the first year two-ways were a thing. I wanted a standard NBA contract. But yes, I could have been called up at any time. That was basically an opportunity for a call-up.

You went overseas for the first time in the 2018–2019 season playing with Zenit Saint Petersburg (Russia–VTB United League), averaging 6.0 ppg, 3.3 rpg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 88.9%; and in the EuroCup averaging 7.2 ppg, 3.4 rpg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 44.2%, FT: 88.9%. What do you remember as your wake-up call to being overseas in Russia, when you realized you were far away from home?

One of the first days in training camp, my head coach, who was Russian, wrote on a chalkboard: “May I call you ‘Oot’?” He was trying to figure out an easy way to say my name, Y–T, so he just called me “Oot”. Yeah. We were in Russia. Yep.

What memories do you have of the tough playoff loss to CSKA Moscow, losing games 2 and 3 by not more than three points combined? How tough was it trying to keep Kyle Hines out of the zone?

Yeah, that was a really cool experience playing them because CSKA was, at that time, one of the best teams in Europe. Very cool experience. They had a lot of good players, and obviously we were pretty good too. So yeah, it was really cool.

In the 2019–2020 season, you went back to the NBA, playing four games with Memphis and three games with Washington, while also playing with the Memphis Hustle (NBA GLeague), averaging 18.6 ppg, 10.5 rpg, 3.0 apg, 1.3 spg, 1.0 bpg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 79.0%. How tough was this season? You dominated in the G-League but only got seven NBA games out of it.

Yeah, I played really well, we had an incredible team. We set a G-League record for winning the first 13 games, I think. I was a huge part of that. Then COVID happened, and that’s why I got only seven games.

You had German teammates Moritz Wagner and Isaac Bonga. Germany is one of the top basketball countries in the world now. How do you remember them as players back then? Does it surprise you that they are now main contributors to Germany’s national team?

The NBA bubble was a unique experience for all of us. We had a month and a half just us, we were all trying to break to the next level of our career or solidify our spot in the theam. It was a unique time. I enjoyed both of them. Both were good players, and I’m really happy to see their success with the German national team and in their careers.

In the 2020–2021 season, you played with the Erie BayHawks (NBA G-League), averaging 14.8 ppg, 8.7 rpg, 2.8 apg, FGP: 62.7%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 73.7%. That was your last season in the G-League. Why do you feel NBA teams didn’t give you more of a chance and allow you to have a longer NBA career?

Hmm, well, part of this was COVID, and part of it was I had proven I was good enough multiple times. I was good enough. For various reasons, it didn’t come—one being COVID. Then I decided, okay, I’ve got to go to make money ‘because I’m having a baby coming; it’s time to take the next step.

You then went to Japan with three teams. The B1 League has grown in recent years. What kind of experience was Japan, and how do you feel your game grew there?

That wasn’t my calling; otherwise, I wouldn’t be here. I would still be in Japan. It was a unique experience. I enjoyed my year in Kyoto, had a great time there. The other two teams were harder to adjust to, harder situations. I learned a lot about myself. I don’t know if my game grew because it wasn’t quite the level of European basketball or the NBA.

You played a lot of games there, 167 in total. What is your general opinion of the back-to-back games that you experienced for three years, and how quickly did you get used to it?

Tough. It’s a tough schedule—60 games a year, back-to-back every weekend. Very tough to manage.

Who was the toughest player you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

I’ve got no idea.

Please name your five best teammates of all time.

Boy… JJ Barea, best point guard I played with. Shooting guard, JJ Redick. Best three-man, DeMar DeRozan. Best four-man, Dirk Nowitzki. Zion isn’t a five, but Zion Williamson has got to be in there.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore.

Michael Jordan, LeBron, Magic Johnson, Bill Russell. You can’t leave out Kobe, and I’ll say Shaq because he was the most dominant player other than of Wilt.

Who’s your GOAT?

Michael Jordan.

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

I did not. Sometimes sequels ruin the first one, so I stay away from sequels most of the time.

Thanks Jarrod for the chat.

Kendal Coleman(ASP Promitheas Patras) Is 100000 Percent Sure That He Can Be An Impact Player In The Basketball Champions League

Kendal Coleman (207-F/C-2002, college: CBU) is a 23 year old 207cm forward playing his rookie season with ASP Promitheas Patras (Greece-GBL). He began his basketball career with Captain Shreve high school and ten played 2 seasons at Northwestern State University (NCAA) averaging 6.8ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 47.4%, FT: 69.6% and 15.4ppg, 10.1rpg, 1.0spg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 54.7%, FT: 58.2%. He then played a season at Louisiana State University (NCAA) averaging 2.3ppg, 2.1rpg. He then finished at California Baptist University (NCAA) averaging 6.0ppg, 6.3rpg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 78.0% and 11.2ppg, 8.3rpg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 73.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against the MLP Academics Heidelberg.

Thanks Kendal for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season overseas for ASP Promitheas Patras. How blessed do you feel to be playing overseas?

I feel very blessed that God has allowed me to be able to do play this game that I love professionally, while being able to support myself and family.

You come from Shrevport in Louisiana which is a nice city by the river and now your living in Patras by the water. Is it in a way like a dream come true for you?

I wouldn’t say a dream come true, I worked and prayed for this and still have more work to do.

What has it been like playing for ASP Promitheas Patras? What were the main reasons for joining this organization and what have you enjoyed most about the experience so far?

So far it’s been good. Overseas at this level is a lot different from college but I’ve adjusted pretty quick. The main reason I joined this organization was the confidence I got from the Coach Georgios and how he was going to support me even though I’m a rookie playing in a tough league. What I’ve enjoyed most is being able to see the world from a different view.

Your playing for head coach Georgios Limniatis. What have you enjoyed most about his basketball philosophy?

His toughness that he has when it comes to us and how we are going to play.

There some big time vets on the team like JP Macura, Kendale McCullum and Ron Gray. Has there been a guy that has helped you most with the adjustment to overseas ball?

They all have helped me in different ways, as far as showing me different ways to create easier shots on the floor or when to roll and when to pop depending on how the defense is guarding, and just little things that have helped me adjust better

You will be playing Basketball Champions League and visit countries like Germany, Poland and Lithuania. How confident are you that you can be an impact player there and in Greece?

I’m 100000 percent confident I can be an impact player in champions league, Greek league and just on the team in general. I know I’m a rookie but to me that doesn’t mean anything. I have belief in myself and I know my coaches and teammates do as well.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 208cm forward/center. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

Honestly I’m not really sure but if I had to compare it to an NBA player, I would say Kenneth Faried. Also I would compare my game to William Mosely. He played overseas for about 11 or 12 years.

Is it fair to say that you recently became a modern day big man? In your first season at CBU, you took 6 three´s and last season 75. Was it a combined decision between you and the coaching staff to take more three´s?

Yes my coaches moved me to the 4 which allowed me to shoot more 3s.

You shot a very decent 37% from outside. What was your secret to shooting the ball so well last season?

A lot of reps every single day of the shooting machine. And reps of how I would get 3s off within the offense.

You’re a guy that can score and rebound the ball well. What other strengths does your offensive game have?

Yes I’m a good low and mid post scorer, and I rebound the ball very well. I feel like I’m also a decent spot up and pick and pop 3 point shooter.

Your also a decent defender. Talk a little about your defensive qualities? What kind of a defender are you now as a rookie and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

Defensively, I am a decent defender but I hold my own against anyone 1-5. Not too many people score on me at will. But with more reps I want to become the best defender I can be.

On what areas of your game are you still working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?

Definitely my shooting, even though it has gotten better, there is always room for improvement. I really want to be a threat when it comes to pick and pops and spot up 3s. More reps is all it takes.

You played at Northwestern State University from 2020-2022. You made a big jump in your second season averaging 15.4ppg, 10.1rpg, 1.0spg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 54.7%, FT: 58.2%. How did your game grow in that season under mike McConathy?

Coach Mike McConathy had the most faith in the world in me. He knew I was working hard that summer and knew it was going to be a good season for me. My game grew because I started scoring down low and in the mid post. I’m a double double almost every game no doubt

You had monster games that season against UIW and South East Louisiana. What was your fondest moment on the court in those 2 years?

Maybe the game I had 20 rebounds against Southeastern.

You then transferred to Louisiana State University (NCAA) playing 21 games averaging 2.3ppg, 2.1rpg. How tough was this season coming from a great season of 15/10 and averaging 27 minutes to only 8. Despite that what positives could you take from that experience?

It was very tough mentally, I started to lose confidence in my game. But it was a learning point for me that the grass isn’t always greener. You can’t learn anything watching from the bench. But what I can say is that it made me stronger mentally, if I go through a rough patch in the season, I always go back to that and tell myself that it could always be worse.

Despite only playing 3 minutes in the tough 74-71 loss to NCAA powerhouse Kentucky, how vital was it experiencing games like that and others that season?

It was a very fun environment, I could have been a factor in that game. But overall the crowd was crazy.

You then played at California Baptist University (NCAA) averaging 6.0ppg, 6.3rpg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 78.0% and in your second season averaged 11.2ppg, 8.3rpg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 73.3%. How vital were these 2 years in your basketball development? How did your game grow in your last season?

I was in the gym a lot, that’s how I feel like you get better is by getting in the gym and working. Also Coach Croy and the coaching staff of CBU had faith in me that I was going to be a great player and I appreciate them for that. My game took a big jump, I started shooting 3s and playing off the dribble a lot.

You had 2 amazing games against SMU and GCU scoring 32 and 24 points on combined shooting of 21/27, but unfortunately lost both games by a close margin. What was your fondest moment at CBU in those 2 years?

Both of those games were my fondest moments honestly, 32 was my career high in college and when I had 24 at GCU, even though we lost it felt good to play against them in that environment.

How did Rick Croy groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Definitely with tough coaching, getting me ready that there will be ups and downs, and never forget what got me there. Which is rebounding and being effective in the low and mid post. Now obviously I still can do other things as well but if I’m in a rough patch or things aren’t falling, I stay on the glass at all times.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or AJ Braun?

It was pretty even to be honest

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced that reached the NBA?

This is a good question I’m not really sure on this one.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Jamaure Gregg

Cam Hayes

Dom Daniels

Tylen Riley

Javonte Johnson

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Allen Iverson, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Shaq

Who is your GOAT?

God is my goat

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

Yeah they should have left it alone lol.

Thanks Kendal for the chat.

Cobie Barnes(BC Mess) Was Taught To Be Able To Impact The Game In More Ways Than Just Scoring

Cobie Barnes (201-F, college: St.Mary of the Woods) is a 201cm forward playing his second professional season and first with BC Mess (Luxembourg-Nationale 2) currently averaging 35,3ppg, 10,3rpg, 4,0apg and 2,0spg. Last season he played his rookie season with Ferro Carril Salto (Uruguay-LUB) averaging 21.5ppg, 12.0rpg, 1.0apg. He began his basketball career at Floyd Central High School and then played 2 seasons and 54 NCAA games for Indiana State University averaging 2.1ppg, 1.9rpg and 3.4ppg, 2.3rpg. He then played the next 3 seasons at John A. Logan College (JUCO) averaging 14.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.1%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 74.5%, at Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville (NCAA) averaging 2.5ppg, 1.8rpg and at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (NAIA) averaging 23.3ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 72.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Cobie for talking to germanhoops.com Your playing your second pro season with BC Mess (Luxembourg-Nationale 2). What kind of an experience has it been and what have you enjoyed most from the experience?

It has been great. I really enjoy my teammates, people and just the basketball here.

Do you kind of feel like a rookie this season since you only played 2 games in Uruguay last season?

I do still consider myself a rookie. I actually played more than 2 games in Uruguay but I don’t know if the stats were uploaded.

What was your wake up call to being in Europe this season where you knew that you were far away from home?

Honestly my biggest wake up call that I wasn’t home were the reusable grocery bags. I think that’s something I’ll bring back to the USA.

BC Mess is 3-0. What are the ambitions of the team? Are the goals to move up?

The goal is to win a championship and move up.

Your playing with fellow American Denathony McCallum who like you is a great scorer. Is there enough room for the both of you to score much on a normal game basis?

I think that DeAnthony and I play really well off of each other, and find each other within the offensive scheme great. We both like to run and play off of each others strengths.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I think I compare to a Paolo Banchero and Luka type of player.

You’re an explosive scorer, but also fill the stat sheet very well. Is versatility a bigger strength than your scoring?

I was always taught to impact the game in more ways than just scoring. So I think rebounds, assists, steals etc. are just as important as putting points up.

You had very many assists in 2 of the 3 games this season. Is getting a triple double something you could imagine yourself doing?

A triple double is definitely something I want to try to get before the end of the season. That’s always something that is a great show of impact on the game I think.

Let´s talk about your defensive game. How would you rate yourself as a defender in your second pro season and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I would say that I am a really hard worker on defense. I feel like I over communicate and try to give as much effort on the defensive end as possible. I want to become a lockdown defender for the whole game as I mature in my career.

On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game?

I would say I’m looking to improve my off the ball scoring. Whether it’s catch and shoot, cutting, screening or anything else.

You had a short stay with Ferro Carril Salto (Uruguay-LUB) averaging 21.5ppg, 12.0rpg, 1.0apg. You played 2 games. What kind of an experience was it basketball wise?

We actually played a good amount of games before we played in the LUB. I went down there January 1st of 2025 and was there for 3 months. We won the LSB and the OBL. And I averaged 22, 8 and 4 assists throughout the whole season, but I don’t think they reported the stats to Eurobasket. I loved Uruguay though. I think they have some of the best fans I’ve ever seen, and the basketball is growing there. I had a lot of good vets on my team that helped me adapt to my first 3 months over seas.

You played 2 seasons at Indiana State University (NCAA) averaging 2.1ppg, 1.9rpg
and 3.4ppg, 2.3rpg. This is the school Larry Bird went to. Is his legacy present there?

Yeah his legacy is felt there. His picture and statues are everywhere around campus.

You averaged 11 minutes in your 2 seasons at Indiana State playing for Greg Lansing. How would you have described your role and what positives could you get from these 2 years?

Those years at ISU taught me how to be a team player. I had to learn how to be a star in my specific role and I thank Coach for that.

You had some great games against Evansville and Loyola Il. What was your fondest moment at Indiana State?

Honestly my fondest memories come with my teammates. I still keep in touch with the guys and we were always smiling when we were around.

You then took a few steps back at played at John A. Logan College (JUCO) averaging 14.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.1%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 74.5%. That must have been very humbling. Usually guys start in JUCO and then move up but it´s very rare for guys to go from the NCAA to JUCO: How vital was this decision for your development and mentality?

I think it was a necessary part of my journey. I needed to get comfortable being uncomfortable and Juco helped me with that.

Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have told me it was a very tough grind, but an experience that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you playing for Kyle Smithpeters?

I feel the same way. Coach Kyle was tough on me but we had a great relationship. Coach always knew how to get the guys to play their best and knew how to keep us together.

You then reached the NCAA again playing with Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville (NCAA) playing 14 games averaging 2.5ppg, 1.8rpg. You averaged only 8 minutes. How tough was it coming from many JUCO minutes to little minutes in the NCAA? Despite that what positives could you get from that year?

It was different for sure. I got really sick at the start of the season and ended up having to get my gallbladder removed in December of that year. And the recovery process took a couple different turns. Some positives I took from that year were to never take anything for granted. It was a tough year, but prepared me for overseas I believe. I just wanted to thank my support system for helping when I had to get surgery to remove my gallbladder. Especially my fiancé who was really my rock through it all.

You then took a step back again and played with Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (NAIA) averaging 23.3ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 72.8%. Here you were reborn. How did your game grow that season?

That was the season I knew I had to have. I went into the summer and gave everything I had to become a professional basketball player. No excuses just results. I learned how to be the #1 option in intense games at SMWC.

You had so many great games and wins but also loses. How tough was that 67-75 loss to Point Park where you scored 31 points? Is that one of those games you won´t ever forget?

The losses hurt more than the wins feel good. I still think about that one and wish I could’ve done more to help us win.

How did head coach Jessie Mcclung groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

Coach McClung saved my career. He helped me with my mentality, work ethic, and becoming a great man. I look up to him so much and I owe him for life for saving my career.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jessie Burdick?

Let’s just say he played hard in those games haha.

Who is the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

I would say that the best player I played in the NCAA that made the NBA was Obi Toppin. We played him my first game of my freshman year of college and that was eye opening for sure.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My 5 best teammates in no order are: Sean East, Jake Laravia, Tyreke Key, Christian Williams, and Miles McBride.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

My personal Mount Rushmore is: LeBron, MJ, Magic and Kareem.

Who is your GOAT?

My goat is LeBron!

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

Yeah they should have left it alone haha.

Thanks Cobie for the chat.

Nik Schlipf Leads The Fellbach Flashers To Ugly 84-83 Grind Out Win Over The Skyliners Juniors

After a long summer, the Skyliners Juniors were back home again for the start of the 2025-206 Pro B season. They had begun the season on the road in Leitershofen and suffered a tough 90-79 loss. Frankfurt was battling sicknesses and injuries and had to play with a 7 man rotation. Their next opponent were the Fellbach Flashers who won the Pro B title in 2023 and have played 2 solid seasons in the Pro B. Fellbach may have been without ex easyCredit BBL slam dunk contest winner Brian Butler who doesn´t play all games, but were with Kris Borisov´s biggest catch of his coaching career with Joanic Gruettner who had just been reeled in. He played 5 seasons in the BBL with BG Goettingen, Bayreuth and Bamberg and was a major attraction for the Pro B. He did score 13 points, but the big attraction was rising Pro B player Nik Schlipf (196-G-2002, college: Alliance) who led the Flashers to the 84-83 win scoring 23 points. It wasn´t a beautiful game, but games like these can always occur at the start of a season. “It was an ugly win. The important thing was that we always stayed together when it mattered most. We kept encouraging each other through every slump in the game. We didn´t shoot well, but kept attacking the paint. We were aggressive minded the whole game and moved the ball well”, stressed Fellbach Flasher Tysem Lyles. The Skyliners Juniors had a lot deeper roster than in Leitershofen, but believed in a 9 man rotation despite being without youngsters Ivan Crnjac, Max Peters and Dusan Nikolic. The Skyliners Juniors fought until the end and had a lot of misfortune at the end, but they should have won the game in other areas. “We made a lot of mistakes and allowed too many fast break points in the first half. It wasn´t our best defensive game. We did a good job on the offensive glass. You don´t see that all the time”, stressed Skyliner Junior Marvin Esser.

Florian Dietrich at the FT line

The Fellbach Flashers got off to a rapid start to lead 8-2 as ex Alliance (NCAA2) forward Nik Schlipf got the hot hand early dropping 2 three pointers for the 8-2 advantage. Ex Nurnberg center Nelson Okafor also got going being aggressive inside getting a lay in and dunk. Alvin Oniya got hot early with a trey and heads up play sneaking in for an offensive rebound and put back as Frankfurt trailed 12-8. Fellbach continued to keep the lead as Schlifp continued to wreck havoc with a 20 footer and alley op pass for the Okafor dunk as Frankfurt trailed 16-10. The game was of a high tempo and many turnovers as both teams remained aggressive on the defensive end. Frankfurt had to play pick up basketball, but always had an answer as German Jamie Edoka hit a trey as Frankfurt trailed 18-16. Fellbach kept the lead as they continued to get easy buckets inside from crafty Gruettner and flashy diminutive guard Travis Davis for the 22-17 advantage. Frankfurt continued to have answers as they also liked to attack the paint as Oniya and German Julius Messer scored for the 23-22 lead and first Frankfurt lead. However it didn´t remain long as Griettner scored at the buzzer for the 24-23 Fellbach lead. “We had good mental concentration. We were never to high or too low. We began well. I was happy for Nik Schlipf who was coming out of a shooting slump. He will have his break through season”, stressed New York native Tyseem Lyles. The Fellbach Flashers shot 55% from the field and 29% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Skyliners Junioers shot 43% from the field and 50% from outside and had 10 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Mateus Rodriguez from outside

The second quarter was the quarter of the runs that looked like this. 6-2 run for Fellbach, 7-0 Frankfurt run, 4-0 Fellbach run, 5-0 Frankfurt run and 8-0 Fellbach run. Both teams were up and down as day and night. Schlipf and Gruettner scored inside on the first run while Frankfurt countered with ex Kronberg big man Florian Dietrich and and a trey by Czech Republic guard Lukas Smazak to dead lock the game at 32-32. Frankfurt then had a lull again as Fellbach took advantage of it with a Mateus Rodriguez floater and Schlipf lay in for the 36-32 lead. Frankfurt struck back with a run as Leif Zentgraf made a trey as Smazak made a behind the back acrobatic pass and he then made a jumper as Frankfurt found themselves leading again 37-36. However Fellbach also always had an answer and struck back with a 8-0 run to lead 44-37 as Schlipf contributed 5 points and Rodriguez a three pointer. Frankfurt stopped the Flashers run with a Messer tip in to trail 44-39, but they were unable to get over the hump as Gruettner scored as did German Thomas Billinger. However Frankfurt got some key production from undersized German big man Marvin Esser who scored twice in the last minute as Frankfurt trailed 50-46 at the break. “That quarter was full of runs. We remained focused and together. Frankfurt responded always being able to find an answer and start a run. My shot wasn´t falling at all in the first half. I stayed part of the team and did other things to help the team”, stated Tysem Lyles. The Fellbach Flashers shot 56% from the field and 33% from the three point line and had 14 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 48% from the field and 43% from the three point line and had 18 rebounds and 14 turnovers.

Lukas Smazak jumper

In the third quarter the Skyliners Juniors continued to have bad phases, but never allowed the Fellbach Flashers to get away. Frankfurt continued to fight and stay with Fellbach trailing by 3 points after 30 minutes. The Skyliners Juniors got off to a slow start offensively getting stopped 6 times, but defended solidly allowing only 5 points as Lyles made free throws and Schlipf drilled home another trey for the 55-46 lead. The Flashers played high intensity defense getting blocks from Micky De Souza and Lyles. The Skyliners Juniors finally got on the board on their 7th possession as Dietrich had a clear route to the rim and made a thunderous left handed dunk to trail 55-48. Frankfurt went on a 8-2 run to trail 57-55 as Oniya made another big play making a tip in while Smazak hit a three pointer. But the Skyliners Juniors continued to have difficulty slowing down the drive as Mark Golder and Jonathan Gerlinger scored for the 63-57 advantage. The Skyliners Juniors kept fighting, but just couldn´t get over the hump. Leif Zentgraf made a lay in to trail 63-60, Messer a lay in to trail 65-62 and Esser and lay in on transition to trail 67-64. Fellbach continued to execute well offensively and led 69-66 after 3 quarters. “Frankfurt did a good job getting out on transition. We didn´t do a good job on transition defense. We allowed way too many offensive rebounds”, said Tysem Lyles. “We came out fighting and stayed close. We never gave up. We are young and hungry. Our offensive rebounds helped us stay in the game”, said Marvin Esser. The Fellbach Flashers shot 53% from the field and 28% from the parking lot and had 24 rebounds and 15 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 46% from the field and 33% from the parking lot and had 29 rebounds and 16 turnovers.

Tysem Lylles at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the game remained tight until the end as Fellbach always had the lead except for once early and the Skyliners Juniors had the opportunity to win it on the last possession. Gerlinger and Dietrich traded baskets in the first minute as Fellbach led 71-68. Fellbach remained aggressive as Swiss guard Rodriguez got to the free throw line twice and scored 4 points, but Frankfurt remained alert and let it rain three´s as Leif Zentgraf and Lukas Smazak hit three´s for the 75-74 Skyliners Juniors lead. However the Skyliners Juniors were never able to take that key run when they had the lead. Instead Fellbach fired with a 9-0 run to lead 83-75 as crunch time appeared. The Flashers were led by clutch Lyles and Schlipf three´s. It looked like this may have been the moment where the Skyliners Juniors would cave in for good, but they didn´t. Frankfurt buckled down on defense and got consecutive stops while Leif Zentgraf scored 5 points including a trey to trail Fellbach 83-80. Okafor then made 1 of 2 free throws for the 84-80 Flashers lead The Skyliners Juniors continued to get stops and 3 free throws by Messer to trail 84-83 with 50 seconds to play. “Frankfurt came back giving us different looks on defense. They got mulitiple defensive rotations which gave them open looks”, commented Tysem Lyles. The Juniors then stopped Schilpf and had the ball with 24 seconds to go. The Skyliners Juniors had fate in their own hands and didn´t get any support from the basketball God. Frankfurt got 3 offensive rebounds and Joscha Zentgraf got fouled with 3,2 seconds remaining. He had fate in his hands, but missed both free throws. He got the offensive rebound and then traveled. Gruettner did lose the ball to Dietrich at center court, but his last second shot only hit the back board ending the contest. “I was still calm when he missed first free throw. My heart sank when he missed the second and had the offensive rebound. But we grinded out the win and a win is a win”, stressed Tyseem Llyles. “We can´t be in a situation like we were at the end. We have to find a way to win the game earlier”, commented Marvin Esser. The Fellbach Flashers were led by Nik Schlipf with 23 points while Mateus Rodriguez added 19 points while the Skyliners Junioers were led by Leif Zengraf with 18 points while Lukas Smazak and Alvin Oniya added 14 points a piece. The Fellbach Flashers shot 49% from the field and 30% from outside and had 29 rebounds and 17 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 40% from the field and 30% from outside and had 48 rebounds and 23 turnovers.

Nate Watson(Panionios Athens) Can´t Be Content With His Game Now But Needs To Keep Working Hard And Improving To Reach The Euroleague One Day

Nate Watson (208-C-1998, college: Providence, agency: Octagon Europe) is a 26 year old 208cm center playing his fourth professional season and first with Panionios Athens (Greece-GBL). Last season he played with AS Karditsa Iaponiki (Greece-GBL) averaging 14.9ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 67.4%, FT: 47.7%, later signed with Casademont Zaragoza (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 6.8ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 52.2%. In the 2023-2024 season he played with KK FMP SoccerBet Beograd (Serbia- Adriatic League averaging 7.1ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 63.6%, FT: 58.5%. He played his rookie season with ERA Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL) averaging 9.6ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 63.4%, FT: 63.9%. He began his basketball career at Bishop O´Connell High School and then played at Providence College (NCAA) from 2017-2022 playing a total of 154 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against easyCredit BBL team Niners Chemnitz.

Thanks Nate for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your fourth pro season and second in Greece and first with Panionios Athens. What kind of an experience has it been playing for this organization?

The experience has been nice. I love Greece and I love being here. Playing for this organization is great. The coach is good and I love my teammates. The chemistry is great and we can still get better.

After 2 seasons in the Czech Republic and Serbia you had your break out season overseas last season playing well in Greece and reaching the ACB in Spain. Is your confidence because of that on an all-time high?

I had my break out season last season and it definitely boosted my confidence, because the ACB is one of the best leagues in Europe if not the best. I played really well against Euroleague teams and it definitely gave me confidence. I hope one day to reach the highest level.

You averaged 14/7 in Greece last season. Do you feel like your game is specially well suited for the style in the GBL?

I think that my game is suited really well for Greece, but I feel like it also depends on the situation I´m in. Having chemistry with my teammates and coaches all matter. Fortunately I had so much chemistry last season. It was just me, but a whole collective effort that helped me be successful.

What is your biggest goal as a player this season besides winning games? Is becoming a well known big man in the GBL a goal?

My biggest goal is just to be the best that I can be. I want to win titles and just continue to grow as a player and become a better player every year.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 208cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I don´t really compare my game to any NBA bigs, but just try to pick up skills from many different players. I used to always watch Al Jefferson who was a really good post player. Sometimes I like to try to steal his moves like his up and under or ball fakes or bully ball to the rim. I don´t believe that I´m a one way 5 player. I can do many things like play 1-1 in the post or catch alley oops.

You demonstrated in the NCAA and Czech Republic that you can be a valuable shot blocker. What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I want to become an elite defender and be able to guard all 5 positions. Sometimes late in the shot clock, you have to switch on the point guard and I want to be able to do that at an elite level. I showed that I could do that last year, but I want to be bale to do it consistently. I also want to become a better shot blocker. Not only blocking my man, but also other guys coming into the zone. I don´t want anyone to score on me or my team.

On what areas of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to improve your game?

I´m working most on areas outside the paint. I´m working on shooting jumpers and also playmaking.

Last season you split time with AS Karditsa Iaponiki (Greece-GBL) averaging 14.9ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 67.4%, FT: 47.7%, later signed with Casademont Zaragoza (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 6.8ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 52.2%. You got a first tast of Greece and held your own against Euroleague team Panathinaikos and Olympiakos. Which player do you remember standing out most then from those 2 clubs?

The 2 players that stood out the most were Alexsandar Vezenkov who is an amazing player. He can get so many points without dribbling. He rebounds really well. He really just does everything so well. I remember my adrenaline being so high against Panathinaikos, because I was so excited, I don´t really remember so much from that game. All I remember is Omer Yurtseven. I had already played against him with Providence when he was with Georgetown. He really stood out the most, because he has a big body and played really well against us.

You then finished in Spain and had good games against Euroleague teams FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. Did games like these and in Greece give you confidence that you could be a Euroleague player one day?

Playing well against Euroleague players definitely gives me confidence that I could be a Euroleague player one day. But I can´t be content with how I´m playing right now. I have to continue to keep working hard every day and get better

You played your second pro season with KK FMP SoccerBet Beograd (Serbia-KLS) averaging 3.5ppg, 1.8rpg; and in the Adriatic League averaged 7.1ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 63.6%, FT: 58.5%. What memories do you have of this season. You had some growing pains. Despite that what positives could you gain from the season?

I definitely did have some growing pains in Serbia. I don´t know if the situation was bad or I was? I just didn´t work out. I went from having a bad season in Serbia to having a great season in Greece. It was a humbling season in Serbia. I wanted to get better so I got stronger and better in shape so I could be better. I took no days off. I was first in the gym and last to leave. I had a statement to make. I wanted to prove everyone wrong who had doubted me in Serbia. I think that I did that.

You played your rookie season with ERA Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL) averaging 9.6ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 63.4%, FT: 63.9%; and in the BCL averaged 8.5ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 56.4%, FT: 58.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I knew that I was far from home when I was at the grocery store and I was asking for Mayonnaise and nobody knew what I was talking about. Nobody really knew what I was talking about and the village I was living in was called Podebrady and it was very small.

What was it like being teammates with legend Petr Benda who has won an incredible 27 titles with Nymburk? Was he like a mentor for you?

It was an amazing experience being his teammate as a rookie. He won so many titles for Nymburk and was also a big like me. He was always in my ear and how to become a better player. We always battled in practice. He was an old man, but very strong. It was definitely a good experience going against such an experienced player every day in practice.

You played at Providence College (NCAA) from 2017-2022 reaching 2 NCAA tournaments losing to Texas A& M and then losing to Kansas. What do you remember most from the second run at March madness?

In my second run at March Madness, it was a great time. It was a dream to get so far. It was really hard losing, because it was my last NCAA game. It really hurt to lose, but just a great experience to get that far. Even if we lost to the champions, it was cool being able to play against them.

You had 3 great games against Butler as a senior. Was one of these games your fondest moment in the NCAA?

My fondest moments from these games was just how hard everyone plays. For some players, it is their last game as a college player, so they give all that they got. There is a lot of emotion on the court and you have people crying after the game. Everyone is my locker room were shedding tears. We knew it was over. We knew that we would never play a college game again. It is a bitter sweet moment knowing you have things after college most likely being a professional athlete or make money in the real world. There is this uncertainty that you don´t really know what will happen. That is why there is so much emotion.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

The toughest player I faced was Markus Howard who went far in Europe. He scored 50 points against us. He was a great player.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My teammates from Providence David Duke, Alpha Diallo, Aljami Durham, Noah Horchler, Jared Bynum

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Steph Curry, Lebron James and Nikola Jokic

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

I didn´t see it, but like always sequels are never as good as the first one. It probably makes sense to leave it alone.

Thanks Nate for the chat.

Dad Dave Has Supported Tyson Leitao(Iserlohn Kangaroos) His Whole Life And Has Learned That The Game Is 50% Skill And 50% Mental

Tyson Leitao (199-F-2002, college: Tampa) is a 22 year old 203cm forward playing his rookie season overseas with the Iserlohn Kangaroos (Germany-ProB). He began his basketball career at Magnet High School. He then played at the University of Tampa from 2021-2025 playing a total of 106 games. In his last 2 seasons he averaged 12.9ppg, 10.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 67.1% and 13.9ppg, 10.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 76.0%. he spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Tyson for talking to germanhoops.com. Not many guys form Tampa (NCAA2) have gone pro. How blessed do you feel living the dream in Germany?

Extremely blessed! Not many people know my story, but I was also a walk-on my first year at Tampa. I wasn’t highly recruited out of high school and got lucky enough to walk on. After starting every game that year I was able to earn a scholarship. Everything that happened there I had to work for and to be in this position to live out a dream like this is surreal.

Have you ever heard of Jeremy Black? He played at Tampa form 20024-2008 and had a great career in Germany?

I have not heard of him, but I’ll definitely do some research. There are a lot of Tampa greats that went on to have great careers overseas and I’m hoping to become one of them.

Your playing your rookie season with the Iserlohn Kangaroos (Germany-ProB). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

It’s been a fun learning experience. Adjusting to European basketball isn’t easy but my teammates and coaches have been a great deal of help. I think the biggest adjustment for me is learning how to think about the game of basketball in a different setting and style. Something that I have enjoyed most is how much time I can spend focusing on basketball, like watching film, getting extra reps, or getting recovery.

What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

It was definitely the time difference. I’m a sports guy so I watch a lot of sports and having to adjust to watching games at different or later times has been hard.

Iserlohn lost a tough 86-84 game to Rostock. You had a great first game of 20/10. You needed no adjustment period. How would you compare the pro B to the NCAA 2 in terms of competitive level?

I think the level of competition is pretty similar. It’s a little more physical and there are a lot of different schemes and adjustments in Pro B but the competition is right there.

You had a great career at Tampa Bay (NCAA2). What are your most important goals for your rookie season with your personal game?

Personally I want to bring as much intensity and energy as I can. Energy is transferable and if I can bring energy to help the team win I will do it to the best of my ability.

What has it been like playing for ex guard Toni Prostran? What have you enjoyed most about his basketball philosophy?

It’s been great Toni is a very likeable guy and when it comes to basketball you can tell he is very well versed in all aspects. He understands the player perspective because of his long career, but he knows what it takes to win. I have enjoyed his level of intensity he brings to every game, practice, or even film session.

What has it been like battling Malik Diagne on a daily basis? How do you guys compliment each other best?

Malik is a great guy on and off the court. He always has great energy and helps the team in a lot of ways. I think the best way we compliment each other is just knowing the space on the floor, when to cut or when to stay spaced he’s a smart player so it always works.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would make the best description?

A current NBA player I could compare to and one of my favorites to watch right now is Alperen Sengun. I watched a lot of the eurobaseket recently and he’s so talented from all aspects of the court. He can score around the rim, rebound at a high level, and even space the floor and shoot.

You’re a player that can score and rebound at ease. What other strengths does your game have?

I think I can bring a lot of defensive intensity to the team.

You also take the three pointer and show that you’re a modern day big man. How would you describe the development of your three pointer in your rookie season?

I would say I work on it a good amount. In today’s basketball you can make a lot of money by just being able to space the floor and make open shots.

Talk about your defensive skills. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

Currently I think I can use my athleticism to my advantage on defense and communicate as much as possible. It’s always been a goal of mine to be the loudest on the court. I want to become a defender that can guard all positions no matter the size or skill.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?

Currently just working inside the paint and becoming as consistent as I can so I can go inside and out on the court.

How valuable has your dad Dave been for your basketball development? He coached many years at Depaul. How did he help you most with your development?

My dad has been a huge part of my basketball development. For as long as I can remember I have been in a gym with my dad. We kind of have 2 relationships: him as a coach and him as a dad. He’s taught me everything I know and paved a way for me to be successful. He helped me understand a lot about the game of basketball and being able to be one of the smartest players on the court. He’s also a huge part in helping with the mental side of basketball and even tells me basketball is 50% skill and 50% mental.

You played at the University of Tampa (NCAA2) from 2021-2025 and made big jumps in your game in your last 3 years averaging 11.0ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 64.6%, 12.9ppg, 10.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 67.1% and 13.9ppg, 10.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 76.0%. How did your game grow in those years?

I think the most crucial way my game grew was consistency and being mentally more stable.

You had so many great games and usually in losing causes. What was your fondest moment on the court and Tampa?

I think that I couldn’t choose just one moment. I would say anytime that I could share the court with my teammates was a fond moment.

How did head coach Linc Darner groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He was great and we played really fast paced so that was a great segway to how its been transitioning to my pro career.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jaxon Toney?

Definitely ME. Lol

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced on the court that reached the NBA?

There’s been a few either Amen and Ausar Thompson or Anthony Edwards

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

No order: Dj Steward, Max Jones, Dalen Davis, Bryan Williams, and Kaden Froebe

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, MJ, Kobe Bryant, Steph Curry

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

I did not see it so I can’t comment.

Thanks Tyson for the chat.

Tomas Bjarkason Isn´t Only A Leader But Another Swiss Army Knife With SC Rist Wedel

Tomas Bjarkason (204-F-1999, college: Lewis, agency: BIG) is a 26 year old 204cm forward from Denmark playing his first season with SC Rist Wedel. He played the last 4 seasons with BK Amager (BasketLigaen) averaging 16.0ppg, RPG-3 (10.2), 4.6apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 50.0%. He played a season with Lewis University (NCAA 2). He began his basketball career with the Svendborg Rabbits. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the season opener against the Dragons Rhondorf.

Thanks Tomas for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season out of Denmark in Europe with SC Rist Wedel. Why did you chose this organization?

I had some good talks with Hamed about my fit with the team and their philosophy. During the talks I also had the opportunity to come to Hamburg and practices with Hamed and some of the players, after that I felt it was a good place to go.

What kind of an experience has Germany been and the Pro B league. How is the whole experience different to playing in Denmark the last years?

The physicality and the crowds. The refs allow more physical play here compared to Denmark and the crowds here is more engaged in the game, especially the yalla rister from wedel

How has the working relationship been with head coach Hamed Attarbashi? What have you appreciated most about his basketball philosophy?

It’s been a good relationship. He’s intense and want a high energy team.

Your playing on a very young team where you’re the oldest. Do you see yourself being that leader?

It’s not anything new for me, my last couple of years in Amager I have been the most experienced player and also had the role as one of the team leaders.

Your teammate Lincoln Rosebush said this about you. “I’ve never played with another passing big like Tomas, and it makes my life on the floor so much easier with how well he sees the floor. We’ve spent a lot of time together so far and I feel that theres a natural chemistry that will really show in Pro-B games. We both can create and play inside and out which makes us dangerous as a unit”. What do you appreciate most about his game?

He’s a great shooter

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 204cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA or Euroleague player who would make the best description?

I have been compared to being the Danish Tornike shengelia.

You fill the stat sheet well. Are you also a Swiss Army knife like Lincoln Rosebush?

Yes I would say so

You do so many things so well on the court. Is there anything that you feel is a bit off the radar?

I don’t know, haven’t thought much about that and if it is other teams won’t scout it so that’s good.

You’re a really good defender. How would you classify yourself as a defender now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

A defender that doesn’t end up in foul trouble, so I can stay on the court

On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can still improve your game?

Just by looking at my percentage from last year it would be the 3 ball and free throws thats the part of my game I’m improving to round my game better

You played the last 5 years with BK Amager (BasketLigaen). What kind of an experience was that? You made big strides in your game in your last 3 years. How did your game grow there? You played for many different coaches.

It was my childhood club, so nice to be back home. The first year I was out with a meniscus year and surgery and was back for the second year, after the second year I was one of the guys with most responsibilities on both offense and defense and my game just grew trough that

You had many great games with BK Amager being close to a triple double and once grabbing 24 rebounds in a game. What was your fondest moment there?

There are a lot, but I would say when we beat Svendborg in the season opener. Was a mix of being a great start and beating old teammates and club.

You played a season at Lewis University (NCAA2) playing only 5 games. Despite not playing much, what positives could you take from your year in USA?

I was injured for most of the year, so it really helped me to understanding how important all the of the court you do for yourself is.

You began your basketball career with the Svendborg Rabbits. How valuable was this time for your early basketball development? Did you have a type of mentor there?

The physical development and the basketball iq took huge strides while being there.

I had different kinds of mentors, Axel Kárason who just was the best and toughest teammate that you could ever want. Nana and Antonio Porta mentored me in play and being a professional

How much of a role model was Terrell Harris? He played in low leagues, but then reached the BBL in Germany and Serie A Italy? He showed he can go from the bottom to top.

Terrell was more a friend and a teammate than a mentor in that sense. While me and nana Harding played the same position he mentored me more

You were a junior national player for Denmark and a national team player. How is the current state of Danish basketball? Are there any talents coming in the next years?

It’s good, a lot of young talents coming up both through the youth and also in college. The u18 team just won the European Championship B, so they had some talents and then the u16 team has some promising players.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced that reached the NBA?

LaMelo Ball

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Pg: Antonio Porta

SG: Iffe Lundberg

SF: Darko jukic

PF: Nana Harding

C: Kevin Larsen

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

MJ, lebron, Kareem and Bill Russell

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

Nope didn’t see it and didn’t know it had a sequel

Thanks Tomas for the chat.

Lincoln Rosebush Is A Swiss Army Knife That Is Ready To Lead SC Rist Wedel To Success

Lincoln Rosebush (208-F-1999, agency: BIG) is a 25 year old 208 cm from Guelph, Ontario playing his second pro season overseas and first with SC Rist Wedel. Last season he played with Alianca Sangalhos (Portugal-Proliga) averaging 12.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT-2 (41.8%), FT: 73.8%. He got his first pro experience with Brampton Honey Badgers (CEBL) averaging 3.7ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.0apg. He began his basketball career with Lincoln Prep and then played 3 seasons with the University of British Columbia (U Sports). He then played 2 seasons with Toronto Metropolitan University (U Sports) averaging 9.4ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 68.4%and 9.2ppg, 6.8rpg, 4.6apg, 1.0spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 61.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a game against the Dragons Rhondorf.

Thanks Lincoln for talking to germanhoops.com. After playing pro in Canada and Portugal, now your in Germany with SC Rist Wedel. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

Well, first of all, I know it’s developed into one of the best basketball countries in the world, winning the World Cup a few years ago and most recently EuroBasket. I know its a very multicultural place and generally very sports-oriented.

Have you ever had ex teammates or opponents play in Germany?

Quite a few. From the CEBL, Callum Baker played Pro-A last year following our summer on the Honey Badgers. I played AAU with Abu Kigab, who spent some time here recently. I spent a lot of time this past summer with Jahlin Smith, who just finished here. And the newest coach of the UBC Thunderbirds, Phil Jalalpoor, played in Germany for much of his pro career after his time at UBC.

Why did you choose this club for your second pro season overseas? What do you appreciate most about the organization?

Rist Wedel and the Towers provided the best opportunity to improve my game and also push my career forward. The coaches really understood my game from the first time they saw me and I felt like it was the best opportunity to be successful in both the short term and long term.

How has the working relationship been with head coach Hamed Attarbashi? What have you appreciated most about his basketball philosophy?

Coach Hamed has been very welcoming from the day I arrived. He is an excellent teacher and communicator, and gives me the chance to lead the young guys and find my voice as one of oldest guys on the team. His players play so hard for him and that establishes the standard.

Your playing on a very young team where you’re the oldest. Is that weird since your only in your second pro season? Do you see yourself being that leader?

I was in a similar situation in college, where I was one of the oldest players by far on a very young team. I feel as a leader it is important to meet each person where they are at and I’m lucky enough to have some experience in that realm. While it might be different because now I am a pro and before I wasn’t, having 6 years in school does have some advantages when it comes to leadership.

What has it been like playing with Tomas Bjarkason? How do you guys compliment each other best?

I’ve never played with another passing big like Tomas, and it makes my life on the floor so much easier with how well he sees the floor. We’ve spent a lot of time together so far and I feel that theres a natural chemistry that will really show in Pro-B games. We both can create and play inside and out which makes us dangerous as a unit.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 208cm forward/center. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would fit the description best?

I think I’m kind of in the Kelly Olynyk mold. I can shoot the ball well, pass, post up, and put the ball on the floor a bit.

You have been described as a Swiss Army knife. Did you always have these qualities or were they were more developed at Toronto Metropolitan University (U Sports)?

I think I’ve been developing them my whole life. At TMU we had a lot of really talented scorers, like Aaron Rhooms and David Walker, so we really needed someone to do the other stuff like rebounding, passing, and blocking shots. At TMU we would be best when I was focused on those things. Now as a pro it helps me a lot because I can adjust my game to what is needed to win.

You have shot the ball really well since going to Toronto Metropolitan University (U Sports). What steps do you want to make with your three pointer this season?

I want to stay as confident as I can in my shooting and hopefully attempt more 3s a game than I have before.

Do you still see yourself somewhat as raw as a defender? How would you classify your defensive game now in your third pro season?

I think I can always be better as a defender, but my goal is to be excellent positionally and on the glass.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now as you continue to improve your game?

I would say my biggest focus for this season is rebounding.

You played your rookie season overseas with Alianca Sangalhos (Portugal-Proliga) averaging 12.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT-2 (41.8%), FT: 73.8%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

Probably Christmas, when I was all by myself in the house. But I really enjoyed being overseas as well, Portugal was a beautiful country to explore.

How valuable was it having fellow Canadian James Woods on the team in Portugal? You knew him from school. He was a rookie like you and knew what you were going through. Did you become like brothers?

Yeah, definitely. It was crazy how it worked out, the club didn’t know we knew each other and we just happened to get offered to the same team. We spent so much time together through the ups and the downs and he really helped me during the hard times. He’s a hell of a player as well and I’m excited to see what his career brings.

You had many great games in Portugal like scoring 23 points against Vasco de Gama. What was your fondest moment on the court?

Beating Vasco was huge, each time we played them it always came down to the wire and they ended up winning the league. My favourite moment would probably be beating Illiabum at home near the end of the season, because it was the club’s biggest rival and we ended their season.

You got your first experience with Brampton Honey Badgers (CEBL), averaging 3.7ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.0apg. What positives could you get from this experience?

That was my first experience with pro basketball. I saw how established pros worked, how the flow of the game was different, and also how cutthroat of a business it is. I also realized I had the potential to play at a high level and got some vision of how to get there.

After playing at Lincoln Prep, you played at the University of British Columbia (U Sports) for 4 years. You never averaged more than 5,2ppg. What positives could you get from these years with your basketball development?

I had to work so hard to even get on the floor at UBC. There was a lot of talent on our roster, with many guys that went on to play pro at various levels. Having to fight for every minute ended up being a blessing because I was forced to dramatically improve my game and it served me well after I had moved on from UBC.

You won the Canada West title in 2020 over Western. What memories do you have winning that title and then little time later Covid coming? – note we won the national bronze medal over Western, and the Canada West title over Calgary.

Well I remember Manroop Clair had 39 and an all-time interview after the game. We wanted to win the whole thing so we were still reeling from the loss the night before. And the next weekend COVID shut the world down and I flew back home to Ontario.

You had some good games against TWU, TRU and Victoria. What was your fondest moment at the University Of British Columbia?

The game against Victoria was probably my favourite, I played the entire second half and that was their only loss during the regular season, I had a big putback dunk and a few threes.

You then played at Toronto Metropolitan University (U Sports) averaging 9.4ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 68.4% and 9.2ppg, 6.8rpg, 4.6apg, 1.0spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 61.9%. Your minutes rose from 13 to 23. How did your game grow in those 2 years?

Well that was where all the work I put in for 4 years at UBC really helped me. I was given an opportunity and was lucky enough that what I did really helped the team on the floor. I was also willing to do whatever it took to get on the floor and win games, and Coach DeAveiro recognized my value.

You had many great games like against York and Toronto. What was your fondest moment on the court at Toronto Metropolitan University?

I had a triple double and 9 points in the last 2 minutes in a rivalry game against Toronto with my Grandparents in attendance – that was the first time they had ever seen me play, and my grandfather passed 9 months later. It was special as an athlete and as a grandson.

How did David DeAveiro groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

Coach DeAveiro never sugarcoated anything. He coaches players hard and tells them the truth. It gave me thick skin and resilience, and he also really opened my eyes to seeing the game differently in terms of Xs and Os.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Aiden Wilson?

Back then, I just had to throw a shot fake up there and he would jump to the moon. Maybe now he stays down though.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life on the court that reached the NBA?

I played AAU with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He’s pretty good at basketball.

Chris Boucher also routinely makes my life tough for like 3 summers in a row now. His wingspan makes him so hard to guard.

Honourable mention to Isiaha Mike, formally Partizan now on Bayern. He’s also super tough. He just always does the right thing in each situation.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time

Give me James Woods, Aaron Rhooms, Zack Moore, Simon Chamberlain, and Jadon Cohee.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

LeBron, Kobe, Dirk and Larry Bird are my favourites.

Who is your GOAT and why?

2018 LeBron was the best player to ever touch a basketball. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. Game 1 of the Finals was probably the best basketball game I ever saw someone play.

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

Didn’t see it. Probably not a good plan to wait 30 years.

Thanks Lincoln for the chat.