basketball

Hamish Warden Could Be Digging Holes During The Aussie Summer, But Instead Prefers The Basketball Globetrotter Life

Hamish Warden (202-F-1999, college: NDC, agency: BIG) is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Australia that has the Swiss/Australian citizenship that recently played with Mandurah Magic (NBL One) averaging 5/4 stats. He has played most of his career down under for teams like the Perry Lakes Hawks (SBL), East Perth Eagles (SBL),Joondalup City Wanneroo Wolves (WCC), and Albury Wodonga Bandits (NBL). He played a season at Notre Dame College (NCAA2) playing 29 games averaging 2.2ppg, 2.1rpg. He also played parts of 5 seasons for BBC Nyon (SBL) averaging 7.1ppg, 2.6rpg, FGP: 38.0%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT-10 (93.8%) and 5.0ppg, 2.5rpg and with the Lugano Tigers (SBL) averaging 10.4ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 81.3% and 9.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 65.5% and with SAM Basket Massagno (Switzerland-SBL). He also played with Basket School Messina (Italy-Serie C) and with Basket 7 Laghi Gazzada (Italy-Serie B Interregionale). He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Hamish for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

Currently in Perth, been here for a week and getting ready for the upcoming NBL1 season in April. Been 3 years since I’ve been back in Australia. Really looking forward to playing at home and being around friends and family again.

Your 25 years old and have played for 10 clubs so far. Do you feel like a basketball globetrotter?

Haha yes a little bit. I’m always chasing a good adventure.

How have you experienced the grind in the last 8 years? You have moved around a lot but stuck to playing in your home countries of Australia and Switzerland.

Last year was the first time I didn’t play year round, because the birth of my son in June, but for the other 7 years been playing year round going from the Europe season to the NBL1. Sometimes in definitely becomes a grind, but you just give some perspective and remind myself how lucky I am to be playing basketball, I could be digging holes in the Aussie summer or working a real job.

You began your basketball career at Perry Lakes Hawks (SBL). What kind of a player were you going in? What memories do you have of those times?

I was a young 17 year old kid who wasn’t very good at basketball. But it was a great first year, got to train under a really great coach and learn off great players like Ben Purser and Matthew Adekponya who were great players, but also great leaders and people. I really learned a lot off them by the way they carried themselves and they showed me the daily habits you need to be successful. Had lots of great memories, but the best was winning the D-league championship that year (u23/bench sbl guys). Was a great night celebrating as well.

After playing with the East Perth Eagles (SBL), you went for a year to USA and was with Notre Dame College (NCAA2) averaging 2.2ppg, 2.1rpg. What kind of an experience was that? What steps was your game able to take there?

I was lucky that I got to Play for East Perth, my childhood team and where I played all my juniors, which was great. As a kid I went to all the games at Morley rec centre, watching guys like Tom Jervis and Drew Williamson play for East Perth, and it was always a dream to play for the eagles. After the season finished, I headed to the USA. It was a big wake up call. First time being away from home, very cold winters, school and trainings, everything was so new but it really developed me into the player and person I am today. It was a big learning year for me, learning off great players and coaches.

You were teammates with 2 very talented players with Will Vorhees and Isaiah Sanders who both have played in Germany. What do you remember from your daily battles with Vorhees on the court?

He used to kick my butt every day in training. But it was great to go against him every day, one of the best players I’ve seen. Isaiah and me were both freshman together, and he is a beast. Super athletic and can shoot it, Zay will have a long career overseas.

You didn´t play many minutes that season but had a solid game against Fairmont State with 10 points and 4 rebounds in a win. You helped win the MEC title. What memories do you have of that run?

I had a really solid pre season, and the first couple of games I was playing solid minutes, but after a few bad games lost my confidence and let it affect my play. But looking back it was a great learning experience. I taught me a lot about handling adversity and just developing some toughness. The MEC title was an amazing experience, we were underdogs but just kept winning and beat two big time schools in Fairmont State and West Liberty to win the title.

What was it like playing for Tim Koenig? What could he help add to your game that you didn´t already have had in Australia?

Tim was not only a great coach, but a great person. He pushed me everyday to get better and showed me what I could be capable of. He got the best out of our team, and welcomed me into his family and I’ll be forever grateful. No surprise to see him doing great things after taking over Joe Mazzulla at Fairmont State.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Will Vorhees?

Will, every time. Dude is a beast.

You then came back and had your break out season with Basket School Messina (Italy-Serie C) averaging 20.4ppg, 10.5rpg, 3.4apg. How valuable was this season and what did you learn about yourself as a player that season?

The previous year I had to choose between signing in Switzerland and going to college and I chose to go to college, but my dream was always to play in Europe. The previous year I didn’t play much and lost a bit of confidence so it was great to sign in Messina, play lots of minutes and have a big role in the team. I had a great coach Pipo Sidoti who is a legend in Sicily Basketball. He really got the best out of me and developed me as a player and taught me how to be a successful European basketball player. Unfortunately, this season got cut short by Covid but it was a great year and really taught me a lot.

In the 2020-2021 season you played with BBC Nyon (SBL) averaging 7.1ppg, 2.6rpg, FGP: 38.0%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT-10 (93.8%). It was your first season playing in Switzerland. What kind of an experience was it and how did your game grow that season?

It was a great experience my first time playing in Switzerland where my mum is from. The level was much higher with most teams having four Americans. The level was great. Our team wasn’t very good but I got to play important minutes and develop great friendships with my teammates.

You returned the next season and reached the cup final in Switzerland. You also lost a tough playoff series against Neuchattel. What was so challenging in that series that didn´t allow you to advance as a team?

We kept all the Swiss locals from the previous year added Jeremy Jaunin a Swiss national team player and added four very good foreigners. Stefan Ivanovic took over as Coach and we had a great chemistry and worked hard every day. We made it to the Swiss cup final which for a small budget Team doesn’t happen very often and we were very close in the Neuchatel series. We lost but every game was decided by three or four points. Play-off basketball in Europe has a different level of intensity and it was great to experience that.

How beneficial was it having a teammate like Maleye NDoye? He had a great career and played 12 seasons in the France Pro A. Was he like a mentor for you?

It was amazing. I lived with him for two years and was training against him every day. He had an amazing 25 year career playing against LeBron, playing in NCAA division one, top division France. What was great about him is every day he was teaching me how to be a great player and all the little nuances of being a power forward.

During the summers you played 3 times with the Joondalup City Wanneroo Wolves (WCC). What did you appreciate most about playing for this club and just living in Australia?

The year before after Italy,when Covid finished, basketball stopped around the world but in July they started the West Coast classic. I played the first three games and really enjoyed it but then I had to leave to go to Europe. The next year, I came back but it was very tough. Coming halfway through a season in a team that was struggling a bit and having to do two weeks hotel quarantine wasn’t ideal but I always love coming home and playing in Australia. it’s a great country with great people.

You also played a season with the Albury Wodonga Bandits (NBL One)n averaging 14.1ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 84.8%. That was your break out season in Australia. How good did it feel being a main guy on the team?

It was definitely my breakout season in Australia. We had a great group of guys, I had a coach that believed in me and it was an awesome country town. I’ll always be grateful for Albury.

You then played 2 seasons with the Lugano Tigers (SBL) averaging 10.4ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 81.3% and 9.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 65.5%. You averaged over 30 minutes in both seasons. How did your game grow in these 2 years?

The two seasons in the Lugano were special. It was my first time having a big role in Europe and I was loving it. I also met my beautiful wife. Lugano will always hold a special heart place in my heart.

This season you moved around a lot starting with Basket 7 Laghi Gazzada (Italy-Serie B Interregionale) and then played 3 games with SAM Basket Massagno (Switzerland-SBL). Now you will play in Australia again? Have you ever thought about trimming down all the moving around?

It was an interesting off-season. We wanted to stay in Lugano after the birth of my son. It didn’t quite work out signing with one of the two Swiss teams in Ticino. Signed with Gazzada, a team in Italy close to the Swiss/italian border. I had a great six months and then got an offer to go to Australia so I decided to leave. I was training with Massagno to stay in shape before I left for Australia and the Coach asked if I could help out for a couple months. I got to learn off great players and get in shape for the upcoming Australia season. In the future I hope to find a home with one of the teams in Lugano and stay with my team here in Australia for a long time. I’ve had enough of moving around especially with a young family.

You played 1 cap against Kosovo for Switzerland. What kind of an experience was that? What is the state of Swiss basketball? Is there young talent coming up?

It was a surreal experience. I never thought I’d play for a national team so to get that opportunity was great. The game didn’t go how I’d like but I’ll be forever grateful the experience. Swiss basketball has some very good teams. There is lots of young up-and-coming talent, I think it’s going to grow in the next couple years and I’m really excited to see where it goes.

What dreams do you have as a player? Have you ever thought about playing in other countries in Europe besides Italy and Switzerland?

Honestly, my dream was to play for East Perth, so to play in Europe and all over the world is a dream come true. My current “dream” would be to play in the NBL, the top league in Australia. It’s one of the best leagues in the world and it’s great basketball. I’m always open to going to new countries and having new experiences. But for now with my family I’m very happy in Australia and Switzerland. I know these are my markets, as I’m a local player in these countries that’s where I provide the most value.

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

Will Voorhees by far, he didn’t quite make the NBA but has had a great career in the G league and overseas.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

It’s so hard to narrow down to 5, i’ve played in many teams with many great teammates so it doesn’t seem fair to narrow down to 5

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Wilt, Russell, Jordan, LeBron

Who is your Goat and why?

Andrew Gaze, Australian legend.

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

No haven’t seen it sorry.

Thanks Hamish for the chat.

Being Part Of A Championship Team As Well As Experiencing Tough Seasons Where Wins Were Hard To Come By Have Shaped Garrett Hicks(EPG Guardians) Winning Mentality

Garrett Hicks (183-PG-2001, college: Samford) is a 24 year old 183cm guard playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro A club EPG Guardians Koblenz. He played his rookie season with RASHI Tbilisi (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 18.9ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-5 (1.6spg), FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 80.8%. He began his basketball career at James Clemens high school. He then played 4 seasons at : Alabama A&M University (NCAA) playing a total of 102 games. He added a 5th year at Samford University (NCAA) averaging 6.6ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 80.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Garrett for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with the EPG Guardians Koblenz. How excited are you to prolong your pro career in Germany?

I’m very grateful and excited for the opportunity that Sascha and Coach Dohrn gave me to continue my career in Koblenz. When I got the chance to join this club, I knew I had to take it.

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

I don’t know a lot about Germany as a country, but I’ve watched the national team during the World Championship & Olympics & they played very well, showing the talent they have in the country.

Have you had any former teammates, opponents or friends ball in Germany?

No.

What were the main reasons for coming to the EPG Guardians? What did you appreciate most about the organization?

The opportunity to play in one of the biggest basketball markets in the world, in Germany, was something that intrigued me initially. Then I had a great conversation with Coach Dohrn over the phone & researched the city of Koblenz soon after. I was sold on the Guardians pretty quickly.

How did the talks go with new head coach Stephan Dohrn? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

I enjoyed talking to Coach Dohrn about my college career and my previous pro season. He seemed to know a lot about my background. I got to learn about his coaching career as well, and learned what he wanted to see from me and the team this year. Coach wants to play fast and tough, hard-nosed defense, which was great to hear.

Coach Dohrn described you in the press release as a very ambitious character and a guy that has a lot of energy. How big is your winning mentality?

I’ve gained my competitive nature as a young kid playing basketball outside during recess. I never wanted to lose at anything, no matter what sport or game we played. I’ve learned throughout my career what it takes to be a championship-winning team and the habits to build each day throughout the season. I’ve also experienced tough seasons where wins were hard to come by. These experiences helped shape my mentality.

The Guardians are a team that will head into their third season in the Pro A. The last 2 seasons weren´t great and they missed the playoffs. You won a college title and led your rookie team in Georgia into the playoffs. How big is the challenge for you to give success to this organization?

Success comes from the work we put in each day to get better individually and as a team. I trust that the coaching staff will put us in the right positions each day and come up with a game plan that will lead us to victories.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 183cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would compare my game to a young Damian Lillard. My offensive skill set can help free up space for everyone on the court.

From your stats in College it looks like you’re a scoring point guard but in Georgia you almost averaged 4,0apg. You demonstrated that you can be a playmaker. Would you still classify yourself as a scoring point guard right now?

I’m a point guard who does whatever is needed for the team, depending on the game. I might need to distribute more for one game or score more for another & read the defense.

You really made a massive jump in assists average in Georgia. How do you see did your game grow as a playmaker overseas?

The ball was put in my hands more in Georgia, so I was able to display more playmaking. I was put in a more scoring/shooting role in college.

You have a very solid three point shot. Three point shooting was a problem last season for the Guardians. How far away do you see yourself becoming a 40% shooter?

I want to continue to gain consistency on my shot and aim to be a 50/40/90 shooter this year.

Your also a very aggressive defender. How would you classify your defensive game right now and what kind of a defender do you want to become down the road?

I use my anticipation to read passing lanes & quickness to make deflections all around the court. I hope to improve my activity on defense, full court, and continue to make strides in my screen navigation.

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

I am working on getting better at different shots coming off a pick and roll, as well as continuing to work on my change-of-direction ball handling.

You played your rookie season with RASHI Tbilisi (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 18.9ppg), 5.0rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-5 (1.6spg), FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 80.8%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

Injuring my hamstring in the first game of the season was very hard mentally to get over. This happened during my second week in Georgia, so playing no basketball for nearly a month was extremely challenging and made me miss home.

How tough was the playoff loss to TSU? You exploded for 36 points in the game 3 win, but you couldn´t win the 3 other games. What was key for losing the series?

I felt we lost the series due to our overall inexperience. We were not poised to close out game 2, which was a very key game considering it was a 2-possession game down the stretch. TSU executed down the stretch of that game & we didn’t, resulting in our loss. Injuries mounted up in the final game, and it was too much to overcome.

You played at Alabama A&M University (NCAA) from 2019-2023 and played 3 seasons for head coach Dylan Howard. How key was he for your early basketball development in the NCAA?

Coach Howard introduced me to playing at the college level so I was always be thankful for that. The summer of my freshman year was some of the hardest training I’ve ever been a part of and really helped in the long run. The coaching staff pushed me and the team to our limits.

You had many great games at Alabama A&M and had Southern´s number. What was your fondest memory there on the court?

Beating our arch rival Alabama State my junior and senior years were some of the most satisfying wins in college for me. The crowds for these games is always electric and sending our fans back home with the win was always a great feeling.

You added a grad year at Samford in Birmingham. How vital was this season not only off the court but on the court for getting an added season of NCAA experience?

This season helped me learn how to live away from home and stay by myself off campus for the first time. I did a lot of maturing going through this process. The team at Samford was the best team I’ve ever been a part of. Coach Bucky McMillan implemented a culture where competition was high in practice and that brought the best out of us. I’m grateful I got to be apart of a team like that.

At Samford (NCAA) you averaged 6.6ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 80.0%. Statwise it wasn´t as good at the seasons before, but you did win the SoCon title. What did your game gain from this season?

I gained much needed exposure to a winning environment & great coaching along the way. I learned a new role as well coming off the bench.

You had your moments on the court against ETSU and Valpo and played in the NCAA tournament against Kansas. What was your favorite moment on the court there?

Running out for warmups to a packed March Madness crowd in the Utah Jazz arena was a feeling like no other! I wish we pulled out the win but I’ll never forget that.

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

Zach Edey

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Cam Tucker Giorgi Vakhania Rylan Jones Dailin Smith

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Kobe Bryant

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 I know it got bad reviews so I stayed away from it!

Thanks Garrett for the chat.

Eamonn Joyce Credits Wolmirstedt´s Chemistry And Unselfishness For Producing Such A Successful Season

pic credit: Blendwerk

Eamonn Joyce (208-F-1997, college: SNHU, agency: One Motive Sports) is a 28 year old 208cm forward from Woodstock, Connecticut that played his 5th pro season overseas and first with the SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt averaging 9,0ppga nd 4,0rpg and reached the Pro B final. Last season he played with San Martin Corrientes (Argentina-La Liga) playing 12 games averaging 3.0ppg, 1.8rpg. In 2022-2023 he played with BMS Herlev Wolfpack (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 14.3ppg, 8.0rpg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 83.7%. In 2021-2022 he played with BK IMMOunited Dukes Klosterneuburg (Austria-BSL) averaging 9.5ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 80.4%. He played his rookie season with Almere Sailors (Holland-DBL) averaging 10.9ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 28.2%, FT: 61.8%. He began his basketball career with the Hyde school and then played 4 years and 119 NCAA 2 games with Southern New Hampshire and averaged 18.5ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 66.9% as a senior. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his great season with Wolmirstedt.

Thanks Eamonn for talking to germanhoops.com and congrats on a great season with Wolmirstedt. I always thought Wolmirstedt was deep but was Leverkusen possibly the deeper team?

I feel like we were clear cut the two best teams in the league, I wouldn’t say they were a deeper team then us, we had 8 guys averaging 10+ in the playoffs, hats off to their defense though, that’s what really sets them apart, their coach knows what he’s doing over there.

How tough was the 76-53 loss at home? You split the season series 1-1, but hadn´t played against them since 4 months. How were they better than in January 2025 when you last played them?

They were more defensively sound towards the end of the year, and we didn’t necessarily shoot well in that game Leverkusen defended very well and with Dennis Heinzman in the middle a real rim protector.

How key was the rebounding and lack of three point shooting for the loss?

Those are the two main reasons we lost, if we played them fully healthy with Fabi and Mo, I think the outcomes may have been a little different. And they did a good job taking away the 3, that affected us since we were shooting 43% as a team from 3 in the playoffs.

What was the game plan going into the second game in Leverkusen? What was key for not getting the win? Leverkusen rebounded very well again?

The game plan was to go out there and try and end the season on a win, but for us the semis and getting the promotion was more so our championship, that was the main goal was to get promoted, Leverkusen did rebound very well in that series

Wolmirstedt has always been very ambitious and has wanted to move up since years. If someone had told you in September 2024 that the team would move up in 2025 what would you have thought?

In September no I didn’t think we were going to move up, but after Christmas we just came together and something clicked, we went on to win 17 straight games if I’m not mistaken, after we beat Paderbon by 40 at home, I knew we could do something special

What is so special about the Wolmirstedt basketball culture? What have you learned to appreciate most about the organization?

The special thing is it’s really family like, from the coaches and office management down to the players and everyone in between, the fan love is also amazing, those two things I really appreciated

The chemistry was great and the teams cored a lot and belonged to the best defensive teams in the Pro B north. What was this season´s team´s biggest strength? Perhaps “TEAM” as there was no big star?

The strength was our chemistry and unselfishness, we knew we had 9/10 guys we could really rely on, and knowing that as a unit and becoming comfortable with fully trusting each other, that’s what separated us, we didn’t rely on one person

How key was head coach Eiko Potthast in the success? What do you believe was his biggest strength as a coach`?

Eiko was very important in the win and keeping us together and holding us to a standard. His biggest strength is his connection with his players and the relationship he builds with them

Let´s talk a little about your teammates. Bill Borekambi has been there since 2021 and one of the leaders. He is a walking bucket and can score in so many ways. What do you appreciate most about his game and what is your favorite move from him?

Bill is my guy, his game is real complete, he’s a guard stuck in that body, I appreciate his leadership the most and just his presence, he’s really a great teammate. My favorite move bill got is his little turn around jumper, he makes it at such a high clip it’s like a layup for him

Talk a little about the other American import Derreck Brooks Jr. What did you appreciate most about his game this season?

Derreck got the ability to go out there and control a game on both ends, he’s a real 2 way player, I think he led our team in blocks.

Martin Bogdanov is also one of the leaders. How vital has his game and leadership been for the success?

Boggys a dawg, his leadership and playmaking was super key for us, he does a tremendous job controlling the game too.

Fabien Kondo made a huge jump in his game from last season. Was he one of the most improved players on the squad?

Fabi was easily one of the most improved players, his work ethic is second to none, he’s very good on the defensive end, he’s going to have an amazing career, it hurt not having him in the championship

You averaged 9/4 stats. How content were you with your game?

I was content with my numbers this year for only playing 20 mins a game, my splits are great so it shows my efficiency when I do have the ball, and I think the highest player on our team was averaging 12, we were very balanced

How do you feel did your game grow in the Pro B? You had a lot of talent around you which obviously made you better.

The talent makes it easier but I feel like I finally got to play my game again, when I was in Argentina I was really limited and didn’t get much opportunity, coach trusted me here.

You shot 40% during the season the best in your career. You kept your word. What was the secret to accomplishing that?

Just reps, and confidence, it was important to me to showcase my shot making this year

You shot an amazing 10/16 in the playoffs. Is this something to build on for the next season?

This is certainly something to build on, I really look forward to getting back into the gym this summer

You had many great games in the German Pro A. What was your favorite game?

Essen game 1 of the semis, I think I only missed 2 shots, getting in the zone like that is the best feeling

Will you remain with Wolmirstedt or will you continue your Globetrotter ways and discover a new country again?

I don’t know what’s going to happen, we will see what the offseason brings, hopefully I get some good opportunities

What are your plans for the summer? Will you visit any new places before getting back in the lab?

No I’ve been gone for almost 10 months, home is vacation at this point

What will be the first eatery that you will check out when you arrive at home?

Easily stop by Eddie V’s or grill 23 for a great steakhouse dinner

Thanks Eamonn for the chat

Being The Go To Guy As A Rookie In Australia Helped Shape Ben Stevens Identity As An Import And Prepped Him For The Pro Grind

pic credit: Angel King Media

Ben Stevens (207-F-1999, college: Laurier) is a 26 year old 207cm forward from Canada that is currently playing with CEBL team Montreal Alliance and recently finished his season with the EPG Guardians Koblenz (PRO A) averaging 5,0ppg and 5,5rpg after starting the season with KK Vardar Skopje (FYR Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 11.2ppg, 11.7rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 54.4%, FT: 33.3%,. In the 23-24 season he split time with 3 teams with Serhedci PIK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL): 13 games: 12.5ppg, Reb-2 (11.7rpg), 1.5apg, FGP: 53.0%, FT: 37.9%, in Mar.’24 moved to BK Nova Hut Ostrava (Czech Republic-NBL): 20 games: 5.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 2FGP: 54.8%, FT: 34.2% and palyed with the Central Coast Crusaders (Australia-NBL One) averaging 16.8ppg, 12.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 40.9%. He began his basketball career with the South West Slammers (NBL One) averaging 18.0ppg, 12.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.4spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 8.3%, FT: 41.3%. He began his basketball career with Halifax, NS / Grammar High School and then played at Laurier University (CIS) from 2017-2023 playing a total of 113 games and as a senior averaged 9.9ppg, 8.9rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.3%, FT: 44.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Thanks Ben for talking to germanhoops.com. You began the 24-25 season and played briefly with KK Vardar Skopje (FYR Macedonia-Prva Liga) playing only 6 games averaging 11.2ppg, 11.7rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 54.4%, FT: 33.3%. Why was your stay so short and what positives could you get from those few months?

My contract got bought out to move to Koblenz. But in Skopje, I had a leading role, which really helped me grow my post game.

You got experience playing down under with Central Coast Crusaders (Australia-NBL One, starting five): 11 games: 16.8ppg, 12.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 40.9%. What of an experience was that. What was your coolest experience there?

I loved playing for the Central Coast! Great club and group of guys. My favourite experience was off the court! I really enjoyed our end of season celebration. I also learned how to surf over there which was pretty cool.

Last season you split time with Serhedci PIK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL) averaging 12.5ppg, Reb-2 (11.7rpg), 1.5apg, FGP: 53.0%, FT: 37.9%, in Mar.’24 moved to BK Nova Hut Ostrava (Czech Republic-NBL) averaging 5.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 2FGP: 54.8%, FT: 34.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being in Europe where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake up call was the first home game at Serhdci when the arena was jam packed and the Azerbaijan Army came to support us! It was such a cool experience.

You finished the season in the Czech Repulic and played playoffs against top team Nymburk. What will you always remember from that series?

That series was tough for us as we were battling a lot of injuries. Nymburk is a great team and we just didn’t have the manpower to compete. It´s always fun to play against the top teams.

How exciting was that incredible 5 games series against Opava where you won game 5 86-85? What will you always remember from that last game?

That series was unreal! playing in front of those huge crowds was great, drums pounding the entire game and just constant cheering. The home gym in Ostrava is always great to play in as the fans are always there to support. The game winning shot from mike was a surreal moment, we couldn’t have asked for a better ending.

You got your first experience down under with the South West Slammers (NBL One) averaging 18.0ppg, 12.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.4spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 8.3%, FT: 41.3%. You had great stats and totally different than at Laurier. How valuable was this first pro team for your development as a pro?

That was big for me. At Laurier, I wasn’t the go-to guy, but in Australia, I had to be. That role helped shape my identity as an import and prepped me for the pro grind.

You had a 24/21 game down under. Did you feel like Kevin Love?

Absolutely! That was my first-ever 20/20 game and it felt great.

You played at Laurier University (U Sports) from 2017-2023. How do you remember these years? You reached 2 OUA semi finals. Were these years some of the best in your life?

My time at Laurier is something I will remember for the rest of my life. I made friends that I will keep for a lifetime and some of the most fun I’ve had in my life. I honestly learned how to play basketball there, it’s where I became a man.

You played 5 seasons with the great guard Ali Sow who has played in Germany before. What memories will you always have of him? I´m sure he helped you win a few games on his own?

Ali is an amazing player, he was the reason we won most of our games at Laurier!

You had many great games at Laurier. What was your greatest game and experience on the court?

At Laurier my greatest game was in my second year against Ryerson in the OUA semi final. That one will be one of my top basketball experiences, even though we lost the whole school was out for that game and I had a huge dunk!

How did head coach Justin Serresse groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Justin taught me how to carry myself like a pro, how to prepare, how to work, how to lead. Looking back, I probably should’ve listened even more, because he definitely knew what he was talking about.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Majok Deng?

Me all the time haha

Who the toughest player you battled that reached the NBA?

I played against Jamal Murray in a scrimmage a few times, he is at a different level.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Chuder Tenny, Kemel Archer, Kareem Elliot, Ali Sow, Adnan Begovic

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Jordan, Giannis, Curry, Lebron, Kobe

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan

Who will reach the 2025 NBA final and win it?

Minnesota Timberwolves

Thanks Ben for the chat.

Ben Stevens Learned How To Deal With The Ups And Downs Of Not Playing Well And Reduced Minutes To Taking On A Bigger Role And Stepping Up

pic credit: Angel Media

Ben Stevens (207-F-1999, college: Laurier) is a 26 year old 207cm forward from Canada that is currently playing with CEBL team Montreal Alliance and recently finished his season with the EPG Guardians Koblenz (PRO A) averaging 5,0ppg and 5,5rpg after starting the season with KK Vardar Skopje (FYR Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 11.2ppg, 11.7rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 54.4%, FT: 33.3%,. In the 23-24 season he split time with 3 teams with Serhedci PIK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL): 13 games: 12.5ppg, Reb-2 (11.7rpg), 1.5apg, FGP: 53.0%, FT: 37.9%, in Mar.’24 moved to BK Nova Hut Ostrava (Czech Republic-NBL): 20 games: 5.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 2FGP: 54.8%, FT: 34.2% and palyed with the Central Coast Crusaders (Australia-NBL One) averaging 16.8ppg, 12.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 40.9%. He began his basketball career with the South West Slammers (NBL One) averaging 18.0ppg, 12.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.4spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 8.3%, FT: 41.3%. He began his basketball career with Halifax, NS / Grammar High School and then played at Laurier University (CIS) from 2017-2023 playing a total of 113 games and as a senior averaged 9.9ppg, 8.9rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.3%, FT: 44.4%. He spoke to eurobasket about his season with the EPG Guardians Koblenz.

Thanks Ben for talking to eurobasket.com. Congrats on the massive 91-73 win over PS Karlsruhe. How good is it to be able to say “The Guardians remain in the Pro A”?

It’s a huge sigh of relief and honestly just an incredible feeling, for us as players, for the fans, and for the whole organization. Staying in the Pro A means everything.

The team was 1-16 after the Trier loss. Was that the absolute down point of the season? Did you ever think that the team could win again?

The Trier loss was rough, but the real low point came after the Dresden game at the start of the new year. We had just brought in two new guys, felt like momentum was shifting, and then took that loss. That’s when the hope really dipped.

Did the team finally feel the sense of urgency to win after the Trier loss?

The urgency really clicked in when we played Jena at home. That’s when things started aligning, Coach Vennilin implemented his system and the pieces began falling into place.

I can say that the EPG Guardians saved their best basketball for the last 2 games where it counted most. Why couldn´t the team play like this more often in the season?

I think we played tight for too long. Once we loosened up, trusted each other, and played freely, everything started clicking. That trust turned into chemistry, and it showed.

What was it like playing against Maurice Pluskota again? Do you feel like the team would have won 2-3 games more had he been on board from the start?

Funny enough, the last game was actually my first time playing against him. He’s a talented player, no doubt. But honestly, I don’t think his staying would’ve changed the outcome of our season.

The Guardians led 55-33 at the break against PS Karlsruhe. The team played no hero ball, but great team basketball. How much fun was seeing and participating in great basketball?

That’s the type of basketball we wanted to play all season. When we shared the ball and everyone got involved, we were at our best. It was pure fun, everyone feeding off each other’s energy.

How confident were going into the third quarter that there wouldn´t be a major let down?

I was feeling good. We knew they wouldn’t roll over, but the vibe in our locker room was strong, we were locked in.

In the second half the EPG Guardians Koblenz managed the lead well. How vital was it having only 7 turnovers? Usually when teams went on runs, it was because the Guardians produced many turnovers?

That was everything. Turnovers had hurt us all season. We knew protecting the ball and getting stops on defense was the key to holding that lead.

How key was William Lee for staying in the league? He began great, then had 4 really poor games and then 4 strong games including 34 points against Bochum

Will was huge for us in those last games. He fought through an ankle issue early on, but when it mattered, he stepped up. His 34-point game against Bochum? Massive.

How was the celebration after the game? Was it calm or a little crazy?

After we won against Bochum we definitely celebrated ! Winning that game meant a lot to us.

It wasn´t a great season for the EPG Guardians. What did you personally learn from the season?

In seasons like this you need to take away the lessons from it. For me personally I learned how to deal with the ups and downs of not playing well and reduced minutes to taking on a bigger role and stepping up when the team needed me.

You played with a great player with Ty Cockfield. How great was getting fed the ball from him? What did you enjoy most about his game?

Ty is a true scorer! He’s a great player and it was a pleasure playing with him.

What was it like being teammates with Dominique Johnson? Did some of his unbelievable energy rub off on you?

Dom was a leader through and through. His experience and voice were key in those final games. He definitely brought the spark.

Talk a little about bigs Moses Poelking and David Bohm. What could you soak up from their games?

Moses has some crafty post work, I definitely stole a few of his moves! David’s got that classic Euro game, and it was fun to watch and play alongside both of them.

Who do you feel was the most improved player on the team this season?

Dami, no doubt

You averaged 5/5 in 17 minutes. How would summarize how you played with the EPG Guardians? I would say solid for the minutes that you got?

I saw myself as an energizer, coming in grabbing boards, throwing down dunks, giving us a spark. When I got more minutes, I contributed with post-ups and defensive plays. I tried to stay ready whenever my number was called.

How challenging was it getting minutes and being efficient? You played as much as 28 minutes and as little as 6 minutes?

Definitely. Playing 28 minutes one game, then 6 the next, it’s a challenge. But it taught me a lot about staying mentally ready. You never know when you’ll be called upon, and you have to perform even when cold.

After getting new experience in North Macedonia and Germany, how do you feel did your game grow as a player this season overseas?

This season gave me a major confidence boost. I grew in a lot of ways, but the biggest thing was realizing I belong here I can play at this level and contribute.

You had many really good games, but what was your personal best game as a Guardian?

That Jena game in March. Even though we lost, I had a double-double and was really active on defense. You could feel the team coming together under Coach Vennilin.

Who was the toughest big man that you played in the Pro A this season?

The big from Trier Maik Zirbes. I think he’s a EuroLeague vet. You could feel the experience in his game.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Moses Poelking?

We had some battles. He got me a few times, I got him a few. Call it even.

Thanks Ben for the chat.

It Is Great To See That One Of The Pro B´s Big Identity Figures With DJ Woodmore Will Be Back With Speyer For A 9th Season

DJ Woodmore (190-SG-1992, college: VWU) is a 33 year old 190cm point guard that completed 10th professional season and 8th with the Ahorn Camp Bis Baskets Speyer averaging 16,8ppg, 4,9rpg, 3,5apg and 1,3spg. Last season with Speyer he averaged 17.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 4.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 82.9% and 2 seasons ago averaged 16.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 3.1apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 86.6%. Three seasons ago he averaged 15.5ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 81.0%. In the 2020-2021 season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz he averaged 13,3ppg, 6,0rpg, 4,3apf and 1,3spg. In 2019-2020 with the Morgenstern BIS Basket Speyer (Germany-ProB) he played 21 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 87.3%. In 2018-2019 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 71.6%. In his first two seasons with Speyer he averaged 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1% and 17.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 76.4%. he played at Virginia Wesleyan College (NCAA3): from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). He spoke to germanhoops.com about his 10th pro season and 8th with Speyer.

Thanks DJ for talking to germanhoops.com. A tough sweep by the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. Despite the sweep how proud are you of your team for reaching the playoffs again and for the first time the second round?

Extremely proud of this team. Bad luck that we ran into arguably the best Pro B team of all time. But I’m glad we were able to make it as far as we did.

Speyer reached the playoffs now for the fourth straight year. Is this a run a good reason for you to come back for a new season to keep this playoff appearance going?

I was going to come back regardless. Speyer is honestly hope now. The playoff streak is a bonus and shows that the organization is steady growing and staying consistent with that growth.

The Bayer Giants Leverkusen were the big favorite going in. What was the series game plan and how much of it could the team do?

There was no game plan to be honest. We knew it was going to be tough. We were down a few key guys. We just wanted to go out there and compete. Try to make it tough for their guards, but Heinzmann put a stop to all of that.

Game 2 was pretty much already decided at the break. Did you just try to have some fun in the last half at home for the fans even if your shot wasn´t falling?

That’s all there was left to do. I had a good time watching some of the younger guys get in the action. Hopefully we gain some experience from it and can get back next year as well.

2 categories that were very apparent in both games was the rebounding advantage and 2% from Leverkusen.Are these 2 things that did in Speyer the most?

Yes basically. Heinzmann didn’t miss many shots. And they’re disciplined on offense. They won’t force anything that isn’t there.

The Bayer Giants Leverkusen are on a mission. They have only lost 1 game this season. Are they one of the best or the best team you ever saw in the Pro B in your career?

Easily the best. They had no holes in the team. 2 good players at every position. Bringing a 7 footer off the bench just shows how stacked they are.

There were 8 sweeps early from north teams over south teams. Is the North that much better?

No.

Another great season from the BIS Baskets Speyer. The fourth year in a row reaching the playoffs. Does the club need 1 more lethal scorer more to be able to make a run in the playoffs?

I don´t think it’s about needing a scorer. I just think we need to find a way to stay healthy going into the post season. Being down 3 key players when it matters most will affect any team. Just look at Iserlohn.

What was so special about this years Speyer team that made it so nice to watch besides the team chemistry?

Just a team that bounced back from adversity time and time again. We lost Carlos and guys stepped up. Lost Latrell and guys stepped up. Guys this season had heart. And I think the experienced guys took a lot in their shoulders and came through.

For guys like Djordevic, Rupp, Diala and Hidalgo, it was the second season in Speyer. It would be so vital for them to remain to keep the great team chemistry intact. Do you see a good chance of that happening?

I see a couple of those guys coming back. But not all of them. I would like to run it back with the same team, but we know that’s not show ports work. I’m curious to see what the roster looks like next season. But I can imagine it looks very different.

How vital was defensive specialist Latrell Grosskopf for the success of the team especially on the defensive end this season?

He was really vital. He had to play out of position this season. And he worked his tail off to be a factor at the center position. Especially towards the end of the season.

Was perhaps Benjamin Hoehmann the most improved player on the squad? He averaged 8/3 after playing 3 years in the 2 Regionalliga?

Benny did a good job for us. Would have liked to see him out there the second half of the season. Injuries really hurt his progress.

How key was new Austrian guard Felix Angerbauer in the second half of the season. He gave the team added scoring and playmaking punch at the guard position.

Felix was great for coming in and giving us exactly what we needed. At times this year our offense struggled. But he helped relieve some of that pressure off myself and keep the defenses honest because of his shooting ability. Great pick up for us and hope to see him again next season.

You had another great personal season of 17/5/3/1 and shot 43% from outside. How content ere you with your season at age 33?

Really content with how things went this year individually. Felt like I took some steps in my game. Hoping keep improving next year as well.

Your stats were similar to last season. Does the game really get easier with more experience?

Honestly it does. I think I’m really good at knowing which shots I can take and make consistently. And I focus on those.

You have shot 40% or better form outside in 4 of the last 6 seasons. Would you call your three pointer your biggest weapon on the court now?

I would actually say the midrange is the biggest weapon. I don’t like shooting the 3 as much as the pull up. But being able to shoot it at a high percentage, makes it easier to get to my spots.

Does your good three point shooting of the last years strive you to want to shoot even better down the road? Would added shooting and less conditioning be the route as you keep getting older?

I think the older you get, the more conditioning you need. Just to stay ready. I’m always going to get enough shooting in.

I can imagine your 40 points against Wurzburg was your most memorable game, but what was your second most memorable?

Honestly the 40 was probably the second most memorable. I think the away game against Iserlohn was my favorite game to play this season. Packed arena, season on the line, buzzer beater to send it to OT. That was easily my favorite.

Your ex teammate Kelvin Omojola surprisingly announced his retirement yesterday. What memories do you have of him?

Kelvin is one of the bets teammates that I ever played with and is still one of my closest friends. The league immediately felt his impact when he arrived. I wish that we would have had the chance to play a few more years together. He was and still is a crazy competitor. I´m sure everyone will feel his impact on whatever his next journey brings.

Who will reach the NBA final and win it all?

OKC should win it all. But I’d like to see someone in the east make some noise

Is Nikola Jokic the MVP or will Shai Gillgeous-Alexander get it?

Shai will get it. But I think Jokic is going to struggle with voters fatigue like LeBron did.

Thanks DJ for the chat.

Kelvin Omojola Was Half Way To Koblenz But Instead Retires For A New No Brainer Opportunity In Las Vegas

Sometimes beautiful things just come to an end. For 2 seasons, Kelvin Omojola (183-G-1997, college: Northwest) was my Quantez Robertson. For 14 seasons, my favorite and most asked interview partner with the Frankfurt Skyliners was Quantez Robertson. I´m the kind of guy that seeks a guy with whom I feel comfortable with and where I know, I will get good answers from for my articles. Quantez Robertson was that guy during his Frankfurt career whom I would pester after almost every game as well as calling him during the season on different occasions to get good basketball answers for my work. In 2023 he retired after 14 seasons and he achieved 68 eurobasket/germanhoops titles from me not to mention countless quotes after games in my articles. Tez and my interview relationship ended, but that fall a new one was invented with Kelvin Omojola and me. We hit it off pretty quickly and I began to interview almost always after every home game. He not only was charismatic and always smiling, but he gave incredible answers that always helped let my articles shine. In his 2 seasons with the Dragons Rhondorf, he made 14 titles for Eurobasket and German Hoops. Unfortunately our interview sessions have come to an end. I was hoping that they would possibly continue in Koblenz, but he was half way to Koblenz when instead he decided to retire for a new no brainer opportunity in Las Vegas. “I 1000% would have went with Coach Stephan & Coach KJ to Koblenz but I was able to earn a Graduate Assistant position at UNLV! A full scholarship to get my Master’s Degree, with employment working with UNLV’s Sport Innovation Institute. It’s an amazing opportunity and even though I had more than a few years left in me, it’s a great transition for my next career after basketball”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. It would have been amazing to see the ex Rhondorf trio of Dohrn, Sherril and Omojola in Koblenz and who knows, they may also have been joined by Badu Buck. “That would have been Amazing Miles. Our championship season was special, we had a great group of guys who were not only high level players, but great characters on and off the court. And if I was going, Badu would have no choice but to come along as well. He knows that!! I love Badu haha, one of my favorite teammates ever”, stated Kelvin Omojola.

After 4 professional seasons, the pro career of Kelvin Omojola who lists Branden Maughmer (He was my matchup and that’s how I determine the toughest player. We played him first round in the playoffs in 2024, and he was cooking! He could shoot, great handle, get to his spots, play defense and get his teammates involved. He didn’t just jack up shots or hold the ball the whole game either, he was playing great basketball) as his toughest Pro B opponent has ended as he will pursue new interesting goals in his home town of Las Vegas. He received only 1 of 2 scholarships for his masters degree at the University Of Nevada Las Vegas. This was something that didn´t suddenly matriculate, but something he had been thinking about for a longer time. “I’m always trying to think ahead and plan my next steps. I’ve been that way for years, I wanted to give myself an opportunity to set my next career up after basketball. I didn’t want to finish playing and not have a plan, so I pursued the route of me going back to school and getting my Master’s. I would have started to get my Master’s Degree regardless this upcoming Fall. So if I was still playing, I would have started my Master’s Degree in Germany. But to get this opportunity, especially at a big school like UNLV, it was an easy decision Miles”, said Kelvin Omojola. He is more than blessed that he can go back to school and be at home. “It doesn’t get any better than that Miles. I haven’t lived in Vegas full time since 2018 so to be back now it’s a blessing. I’ll be doing a little bit of work already starting in June, but the work will officially start in August. I’ll be getting my Master’s in Intercollegiate & Professional Sport Management. I’ve always had a passion for sports and there are so many elements that go into having a successful sports program. I was first exposed to those elements when I was at UNLV for me – As for my role with UNLV’s Sports Innovation Institute, yes it’ll be a Marketing & Operations position”, commented Kelvin Omojola. He is also very fortunate that he will also be involved not only with the UNLV basketball program, but also other teams. “The UNLV’s Sport Innovation Institute works with all of the teams at UNLV & all of the Professional Sports teams here. The Raiders, the Aces, UFC, Golden Knights, you name it. The capacity of the work that it would consist of wouldn’t be coaching however”, added Kelvin Omojola.

The 28 year old guard who played like a mix of Steph Curry and Kyle Lowery and lists the following just off the top of his head as his best teammates of all-time with DJ Woodmore, Ben Shungu, Avery Sullivan, Badu Buck, Lorenzo Cugini, Bazou Kone, Ferenc Gille, Dom Von Waaden, Marko Rosic, Tyreese Blunt, and Darian Cardenas was fortunate to have played all 4 pro seasons in Germany and it was obvious that Deutschland became like a second home for him. “As you know, my mom is from Munich. So being able to be here in Germany for the past 4 years, I felt at home. It was a great 4 years that really flew by. Who knows, maybe in the future I’ll be back here in Germany working as a GM for a club”, smiled Kelvin Omojola. He played his rookie season with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (Germany-ProB) averaging 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 71.8%. He will never forget head coach Carl Mbassa who gave him his fist pro job. “I’m beyond thankful for Coach Carl. He’s such a great person and a great coach. He let me grow as a player and didn’t handcuff me at all. He allowed me to play through mistakes and always told me to be aggressive. Whenever I took a bad shot, he never said anything to me. He wanted me to remain confident, aggressive, and that helped me so much as a player from a skill aspect and a mental aspect”, warned Kelvin Omojola. He was also so fortunate to have a veteran like DJ Woodmore showing him the ropes and more. The advice that he got from him was priceless. “DJ Woodmore took me under his wing and I learned so much from him. I really do view him as a brother. He’s a TRUE professional, beyond skilled on the basketball court, and he taught me a lot off the court as well. I’m beyond grateful that he was my vet, he taught me so much and our relationship is still strong to this day. I love DJ and he knows that”, said Kelvin Omojola. He played his first playoff series against Wedel and his future head coach Stephan Dohrn and had to suffer a tough 1 point loss in game 3 to end his season. “We had that series! Coach Stephan knows that too! That series hurt because we knew we could beat Wedel and we should have. Marc Liyanage could only play home games at that point of the season so not having him on the road hurt us a lot. He gave us that veteran presence; With his skill set and basketball IQ, not having him in games 1 & 3 hurt us a lot”, commented Kelvin Omojola. He had his 2 best Pro B scoring games as a rookie against Frankfurt and always enjoyed battling against them. “Frankfurt would always be special. Ofcourse having my best 2 scoring games helps haha, but it was always fun playing Frankfurt. Literally every single game I’ve played against them in my career was a great game that came down to the wire. This season, being able to beat them at their house for the only time in my career was great. It’s tough to play there and they always play well at home”, explained Kelvin Omojola.

In his second pro season, the 3 level scorer moved up a level to the Pro A and laced them up for PS Karlsruhe. He only averaged 3,1ppg in 12 minutes of action. “It was tough Miles, because for the first half of the season, I was averaging over 8 points a game. Which is solid, especially for my first year in ProA. But we weren’t winning games, so when the team brought in Ben from Ludwigsburg, my minutes got cut substantially. Going from playing solid minutes to getting 30 seconds – 4 minutes a game is tough. It also destroys your averages. But, it’s a part of the game and I learned a lot that season. I had great teammates and learned how to compete at a high level, which helped when I went to the Dragons the next season”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. It didn´t help his minutes that he had 3 talented guards also striving for minutes with Ben Shungu, Lovell Cabbil and Bazou Kone as he was the odd man out, but that also had other advantages. “Yes, that was the case Miles. But that backcourt of Ben Shungu, Lovell Cabbil and Bazou Kone was elite. Every day in practice was a BATTLE. I got so much better competing against them, they’re all so skilled and they all had different play styles. Defending Baz would be different than guarding Ben. I had to be locked in every practice, every day. But it was a blessing”, remembered Kelvin Omojola. Despite not playing much that season, he has fond memories and has a favorite game and had a few tough opponents. “When we played Tübingen at home. It was my best game of the year, super efficient game with 12 points and we beat them which was most important. I always say this Miles, it would be Ben Shungu, Lovell Cabbil and Bazou Kone. Defending and competing against those guys challenged me and grew my game. It helped me become a stronger player and develop mental toughness”, explained Kelvin Omojola. That PS Karlsruhe won the pro A title the next season didn´t surprise him at all with head coach Alexsandar Scepanovic. “ He’s a great coach. We went to the semifinals when I was there. So the next year, him winning the championship wasn’t a surprise. His schemes, especially defensively are the best I’ve ever seen”, warned Kelvin Omojola.

He played his last 2 seasons with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. I would of guessed that these last 2 seasons there were his 2 favorite, but they weren´t. “ I would say the championship season and my first season with Speyer were my favorite 2 seasons as a professional Miles! The championship year is a no brainer, and my first year with Speyer I was surrounded by GREAT vets and great guys. They made my transition into playing pro basketball effortless and every day was a joy to be there”. Said Kelvin Omojola. In his first season he helped the Dragons Rhondorf win the Pro B title averaging 12.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-2 (6.1apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 79.5%. “ We were so talented and our chemistry was unmatched. As talented as we were, we were in multiple situations throughout the playoffs where we easily could have folded and lost. But we stuck together, no matter if we won or lost. And if we lost, we took it personal to make sure we didn’t lose again. We were fixated on winning a championship and knew we wouldn’t be denied. We played so many great teams in the playoffs, we easily could have lost. But we always made the adjustments and brought the correct energy/focus to the next game to make sure we didn’t lose again”, commented Kelvin Omojola. He was more than fortunate to share the back court with Tyrese Blunt and Badu Buck. “We were the best backcourt in the league! Yeah they were great Miles, we all complimented each other’s game perfectly and brought the most out of each other. We all competed at a high level and never took it easy on each other”, said Kelvin Omojola. He had a great relationship with Marko Rosic and and won´t forget the deadly mid range game of 2024 U-18 Euro winner Janne Muller. “I love Marko, he’s such a great guy and a great player. I tried to let him know that anytime I could. My favorite moment with him haha, Marko is a funny guy! Most people don’t know that. I’d say the Mario Kart moments we had. It was Marko, myself, Badu, KJ, and Avery. Those moments were priceless and we still have a group chat going to this day. Janne is another great player. Seriously, he’s so good and the sky is the limit for him. He’ll continue to get better every year and I told him don’t forget about me when he’s at the top haha. But yes his mid range game is elite as well as his finishing around the basket. Such a crafty player and beyond skilled for his age”, added Kelvin Omojola.

It is a no brainer what Kelvin Omojola´s favorite game as a Dragon Rhondorf player was. “My personal favorite would have to be the championship game vs. Köln. It has to be Miles! If we win this game, we win the championship. So with the game being the highest pressure game I’ve ever been a part of, to go out there and have 20 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, and to get the win? It’s a no brainer”, said Kelvin Omojola. He also knows that the team success and his stellar play wouldn´t have been as good without the diehard support of the Dragon faithful. “That they showed up and supported us every single game was so important! Not only at home, but on the road as well! It gives you an appreciation when the fans are traveling 3+ hours to road games to support you. It REALLY puts it in perspective when you get blown out on the road, the fans traveled to the game, and it feels like you let them down. I love the Dragons fans and they’ll always be special to me”, warned Kelvin Omojola. 4 years wasn´t a long career, but he will be filled with memories for the rest of his life as will his fans. He hopes that the fans will have him in the best of memories as well. “I would say as someone who played hard and never cheated them. I always tried to show the fans the same love and appreciation that they showed me. I always put in the work, I practiced hard every single practice, I never took days off, I was always invested in the team and wanted to win no matter what. I hope they could see that and remember that”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. I will always remember Kelvin Omojola as a player who always gave his best on the court and was a top 3 point guard in the Pro B. He was always professional and a great character and was just a joy to be around. “Thank you Miles for not everything you’ve done for me, but for the all coverage you provide to Germany basketball! I appreciate you, and I’m glad we could speak at least once more”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. Of course Kelvin we will do another interview about your new career. I wouldn´t want it any other way.

Ike Smith Wants To Be The Best Defender In Every League He Plays In

Ike Smith (193-G-1997, college: Georgia South) is a 27 year old 193cm guard from Gainesville, Florida that completed his fifth professional season and first with Gornik Zamek Ksiaz Walbrzych (Poland-OBL) averaging 12,8ppg, 4,4rpg, 3,2apg and. Last season he played with Elachem Vigevano 1955 (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 15.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 58.1%. He played with Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga) from 2021-2023 avergaing 21.5ppg), 7.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 22.4%, FT: 73.8% and in his second season avergaed 19.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 3.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 70.6%. He began his basketball career at / Gainesville High School. And then played at Georgia Southern University (NCAA) from 2015-2020 playing a total of 133 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Ike for talking to germanhoops.com. You keep moving up leagues after paying your dues in Finland. How has the grind been for you? What has kept your energy going to keep moving up the basketball ladder?

The grind has been great. I enjoy coming to work everyday and getting better. The goal for me is to play at the highest level in Europe so that’s my motivation on moving up the ladder

You played your fifth pro season and first with Gornik Zamek Ksiaz Walbrzych (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

Playing in the OBL has been a learning experience but fun. I struggled earlier on due to some injuries but now I feel like I’m in great rhythm

The club was holding it´s own fighting for the #1 position. What has been the secret to the success?

The secret to success for us has been our work ethic everyday. We get after one another everyday in practice. It’s very competitive

You recently won your first chip with the Polish Cup. What was the finest memory of that run?

The best memory would have to be Toddrick´s game winning shot! Those are the moments you dream about

The team has a lethal trio of Alterique Gilbert, Todderick Gotcher and yourself. What have you appreciated most about their games?

I appreciate the most their intensity. They always get us off to a good start to games with their energy

Last season you played in the Italian Serie 2. This season your playing in another top league in Poland. How would you compare the 2 leagues. Many have said that the Italian league is one of the best 2 leagues in Europe. Which would you say is best in competitiveness and skill level of the players?

I agree that the Italian league is one of the best 2nd leagues in Europe. Both leagues are very physical. I would have to say that the competitiveness and skill level was higher in Italy

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

That’s tough, but I’ve gotten some Demar Derozan comparisons. He uses a lot of different footwork techniques to score at a high level & I do the same.

You’re a player that fill the stat sheet very well. How big is your versatility in your game?

I think my versatility is the best thing about my game. I have the ability to score in many different ways. I could also defend multiple positions

You shot 39% in the NCAA and 35% in Italy. What do you have to still do to reach the 40% plateau?

I believe work ethic & confidence will help me to reach the 40% plateau

How would you describe your defensive game now in your fifth season? To what stage do you still want to reach to make the next level as a defender?

I think I underestimate how great I could be on the defensive end. I have the size, length & strength to be a great defender. I want to be one of the best defenders in every league that I play in

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

Free throws are the weakest part of my game. I leave so many points out there not converting my free throws.

Last season you played with Elachem Vigevano 1955 (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 15.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 58.1%. It wasn´t a great season, but you were consistent with your play. What did you learn from this season and how did your game grow?

Playing in Vigevano I was one of the primary ball handlers. I learned a lot from playing pick & roll seeing so many different coverages

You played 2 seasons with at Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga)n averaging 21.5ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 22.4%, FT: 73.8% and in your second season averaged 19.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 3.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 70.6%. How vital were these 2 seasons in your basketball development overseas? How did your game grow?

The 2 seasons in Tampere were important for me. It was an introduction to the European style of basketball

How key was guard David Gonzalvez in your rookie season? Was he like a mentor for you?

David was great. He always filled me with confidence. Everyday we were in the gym playing 1 on 1 just sharpening our game. We also worked on a lot of moves in the post

In your second season you lost a tough playoff series to Kauhajoki? In games 1 and 2 the team allowed 120 points per game. You scored 31 points in game 2. What memories do you have of this series?

Kauhajoki forced us to play a fast paced style of game which fits how I like to play so I just wanted to be very aggressive. I always enjoyed Karhu fans. It gave me an extra boost as well

You were in Germany with the Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos Second Team (Germany-ProB). You left in December 2020. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

What I learned from Germany was how important it was to take care of my body. Nutrition, Sleep, & recovery is very important and at the time I didn’t understand that.

You played at Georgia Southern University (NCAA) from 2015-2020 and played 133 games. What memories do you have of these 5 years? How tough was not playing March madness in 2020 because of Covid?

Georgia Southern was the most fun times I could say I had in my basketball career. We had such a family vibe and so much talent on the team. It was tough not being able to play march madness. You grow up watching this tournament all your life and hope to play in it one day. It was unfortunate that it was taken away from us

Early in your freshman year you lost to Duke and played against future NBA guys like Grayson Allen and Brandon Ingram. What memories do you have of that game? Were you able soak up valuable things from a loss like that?

Playing at Duke for me was an eye opener. It just showed me that I wasn’t where I wanted to be and that I needed to improve my game in so many ways

You played 4 years with Tookie Brown? Did you guys become like brothers in that time?

Tookie will always be a lifetime brother. I’ve learned so much from him on the court but just off the court he’s a great human being

How did head coach Mark Byington groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Byington was great. He pushed us everyday to be better on & off the court.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tookie Brown?

Tookie and I didn’t have many 1 on 2 battles. It would be more team battles. Some days be got the best of my team and some days I got this beat of his team

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

Brandon Ingram

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Tookie brown Montae Glenn Isaiah Crawley Toddrick Gotcher Alterique Gilbert

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron, Jordan, Kobe, Kareem Abdul Jabbar

Who is your Goat and why?

My goat is LeBron James. His accolades and longevity speaks for itself

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

I saw the sequel to coming to America. I enjoyed the movie but it was nothing compared to the 1st.

Thanks Ike for the chat.

A Crazy Cross Over And An Off Balance Floater Propels Zach Cooks Into The Jena Fans Hearts Forever

pic credit:Christoph Worsch

Giessen had a do or die game in their own living room with a few thousand boisterous Giessen fans doing all they could to keep their season going. It wasn´t loud in the Ost Halle, but bedlam as there were 11,3 seconds to play and game 4 between Giessen and Jena was dead locked at 95-95. The only negative aspect for the Giessen faithful was that Jena had possession and could make history and move back to the easyCredit BBL with a win. You could of given the ball to a handful of players, but none was better than explosive 175cm guard Zach Cooks (175-PG-1999, college: Hofstra) who has been in this kind of a situation his whole career. He has been a walking bucket his whole career and averaged 22,0ppg the last 2 seasons with UBSC Raiffeisen Graz (Austria-BSL) and averaged 18,0ppg in his last 3 seasons with the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NCAA). It was a no brainer for him that he would take the last shot. “I’m very confident in myself and I always want the ball at the end of the games to make the game winning plays. Coach had trust in me to do that and I executed it exactly how he wanted”, stressed Zach Cooks. With the seconds winding down he was near the free throw line and produced a sick cross over went right towards the hoop and took an off balance floater with 2 defenders coming at him and let it bank off the glass and in and the rest is history. “This one felt good. It was a special moment as I made a buzzer beater to move us to BBL. It will go down in history and will be talked about forever. This is what we worked all season for. From the first day of pre season to the all the hard practices and long days in the gym, it all paid off to get us to move up to the BBL”, stated Zach Cooks. “He is a beast and he had a great season and amazing second half for us”, warned Chris Carter. A crazy cross over and off balance floater bank shot propels Zach Cooks into the hearts of Jena fans forever.

pic credit: Christoph Worsch

The 26 year old Georgia native who feels that the Oklahoma City Thunder will win the 2025 NBA title over the Indiana Pacers were down 1-0 against Giessen and having had to face that kind of adversary was a blessing in disguise. “It made us realize it won’t be easy. Giessen is a good team and we stopped playing the 1st game which led to us giving up the lead and losing”, said Zach Cooks. The scoring guard came alive in the last 3 games in the Giessen series averaging an incredible 24,0ppg after only contributing 9 points on 3/7 shooting in the 84-80 game 1 loss. “I had to get out my head and just play my game how I know to play. I was second guessing myself in game 1 but came out game 2 very aggressive playing my game and it led to good success for myself”, commented Zach Cooks. Jena came together as a team in game 2 and shocked Giessen on the road winning by 10 which totally heightened their self-confidence returning back home and destroyed Giessen by 33 points and had total momentum going back to Giessen to win in spectacular fashion with a buzzer beater. “We were able to win the series and reach the final by staying focused, calm, and believing that we can win every game we play”, expressed Zach Cooks. Jena didn´t go into the playoffs with momentum losing 2 of their last 3 regular season games, but the team knew that now was the time to step up and start the post season. “I was 100% confident in my team. We know in the locker room what we have, we just have to all be locked in and show it on the court. We were locked in from game 1. We wanted to make a statement but also prove to ourselves that we can handle business as the #1 seed”, warned Zach Cooks.

pic credit: Christoph Worsch

One guy that may have gotten lost a bit in the shadow of Cooks buzzer beater was ultimate teammate Chris Carter. He is a player that has been a positive disease on clubs like Vechta, Chemnitz, Rostock and now Jena with the incredible skills of being able to lead those teams from the Pro A to the easyCredit BBL. The guy has so much positive energy on and off the court every day and Cooks saw it right from day 1. “I remember my first day in Jena we got in the gym and got some shots up. We talked about the expectations of the season and the past seasons of ours and we clicked right away. I knew he would be my right hand man this season right after that”, added Zach Cooks. Carter does do many things, but it was especially his leadership once again that brought magic to the team. “Chris is special and does a lot of the little things that statistics may not show. He’s a very vocal person and is always positive on & off the court. We follow his lead and he has helps me a lot especially this season”, explained Zach Cooks. You could give Jena´s team middle name character as they had another player by the name of Raymar Morgan who has played at the highest level and is in his 14th season at age 36. He is the ultimate veteran who was very efficient in 13 minutes per game averaging 7,0ppg and 3,0rpg and accepted a lesser role for the good of the team. “Raymar brought the leadership to the team, the voice but also knowledge that he has since he has played for a long time. He’s definitely helped the team in so many different ways”, stressed Zach Cooks. Jena was on top of the standings all season with incredible chemistry and without a doubt, this was the most talented team that Cooks has played on. “Top to bottom we had everything a team needs to be successful. Everybody played their role perfectly and it helped us get to the position we are in today. The team chemistry is easy when we all do things as a team a lot. Off the court activities only helped us on the court and we can pick each other up if one falls”, said Zach Cooks. But the chip isn´t there yet. Granted Jena has moved up to the easyCredit BBL, but still want that chip against Trier. Last season, Cooks lost in the finals in a tough game 3 to Oberwart 81-80 and this time, he wants to make amends. “I wanted it very badly because at the end of the day I am a winner. I hate losing. We will be ready to play both games against Trier. We lost a big lead the first game and were short handed the 2nd game. It will be a good 2 games for both teams with a lot of talent”, warned Zach Cooks. There is serious guard terror within the Trier team as Zach Cooks will have his hands full, but he definitely wants revenge for the 2 loses this season and is on a mission for that first dub.

Ilya Fohl(Alba Berlin) Was The Steph Curry Of Berlin In The JBBL Final As He Was Letting It Rain Three´s From All Over

Ilja Fohl is a 15 year old 185cm small forward that averaged 12/1/1/1 stats in the regular season of the JBBL (U-16) season. He spoke to eurobasket after helping lead Alba Berlin to the 2025 JBBL title.

Congrats I on the big 86-74 JBBL title win over the Baskets Junior Oldenburg. How do you feel?

This so crazy for me. I came from Zehlendorf and have never had that kind of success before like this with Alba Berlin. It is so full filling for me to have won this title. I thank the coaches and my teammates for the great effort.

How big was the revenge factor for Alba Berlin?

It was big. So many people said that we wouldn´t win again, because we had bad opponents. That pushed us so much more to work harder and winning feels so good.

How cool was it having the NBA Wagner brothers cheering on the team in the Alba fan block?

It is a great feeling knowing that NBA superstars gave us support. That shows that Alba Berlin is a family and that they have stayed on the ground.

The first quarter was tight, but in the second quarter Alba Berlin was able to get way a bit. How vital was the superb play of Luca Kappel?

When he is hot and hitting shots, it´s deadly for then opponent. We are similar in a way as players. We both have shown that when you work hard, results will show.

The Alba Berlin defense did a great job slowing down Djordje Klaric and holding him at 15 points. How tough is it to keep him in check?

We is a good three point shooter and we wanted to take that away from him. We did a pretty good job doing that. We wanted him to go more into the zone and tire him out. We made him work hard for every shot.

In the third quarter Alba Berlin got a massive push from big man De Sancho Del Pino Kruse. How vital was his support to once again to be able to get a way a bit from Oldenburg?

He is our only real big and is our X-factor. His energy and strength is so strong. Our coach always told us to look for him. He saved us a lot of times in then final.

Oldenburg kept coming back and fighting the whole game. How much respect did Alba Berlin have for that?

They are a great strong team. If Klaric and Oldiges had scored more, it could have been a tougher game for us. They live off runs and always came back. I think that our depth was key for the win.

How key was the thunderous dunk form Jason Heitmann at the end of the third quarter for Alba Berlin moving forward?

That dunk was so big. There hadn´t been many dunks in the game and his gave us the momentum at that point. The arena went crazy.

Ihla Foehl hit big shot after big shot. Is he the Steph Curry of Berlin?

I was today. There are games where I don’t find my shots. Luca Kappel and I are the splash brothers of Berlin.

Oldenburg kept fighting in the fourth quarter, but Alba Berlin pulled out the win. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?

I think key was staying calm and playing our game. We hit big shots and made them when we needed to. We didn´t give them a chance to come back.

You are an amazing shooter. Who is your big basketball role model?

My role model is Damian Lillard. He may not be the best shooter, but I chose him because not everyone has him as a role model.

How will you celebrate tonight? I´m sure you have school tomorrow.

I will see if I go to school or not. I won´t go into the club or drink. I will celebrate with my family.

Thanks Ilya for the chat.