basketball

Rayshawn Mart(BBC Bayreuth) Originally Went To School To Become A Doctor But Instead Is Living The Basketball Dream Overseas

Rayshawn Mart (190-PG-1998, college: Xavier, LA) is a 27 year old 190cm guard form Louisiana playing his fifth professional season and first in Germany with Pro A team BBC Bayreuth averaging 12,5ppg, 2,6rpg and 4,4apg. Last season he played with Coldmaris BBC Nord Dragonz Eisenstadt (Austria-BSL) averaging 15.2ppg, 4.9rpg, Assists-4 (6.0apg), 1.5spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 71.6%. He played the 2023-2024 season with HKK Posusje (Bosnia-Division I) averaging 19.7ppg, 5.8rpg, 3.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 60.8%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 66.5%. He played his rookie season with Orthodox Bethlehem (Palestine-PBBA). He began his basketball career with Bourqeois high school and then played at Xavier University of Louisiana (NAIA) from 2017-2022 playing a total of 125 NAIA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.

Thanks Rayshawn for talking to germanhoops.com. How blessed do you feel as a pro player. Your playing your fourth pro season and came from an NAIA school. Not only don´t many come overseas from the NAIA, but even less play at high levels like you. Do you thank God every day for having the opportunity to live the dream?

I am very blessed to have the opportunity to do what I love for a living. I thank God everyday, and I think this is a testimony to how far hard work can take you.

After a successful season in Austria, how logical was it making the next step to Germany? Have you been following the German leagues since you came overseas? Germany is very respected for their basketball.

The opportunity to go to Germany was a big influence to me signing to the dragons in Austria. After my year in Bosnia, I had a few options but understanding that playing in Austria can open doors for me in Germany motivated me to commit to Austria and have a successful season. I have been watching German leagues my whole college career and I also have close friends who played there so I would often watch to support them.

2 reasons you signed with BBC Bayreuth was because of the organization and it´s fans. Do you feel like you will be able to grow as a player and man with BBC Bayreuth?

Yes I think this will be a monumental year in my career. BBC Bayreuth is a well known and respected organization full of great hardworking people. With my work ethic and drive I think I will thrive in this environment with the opportunities they present. I’m also extremely excited to learn from such a respected organization, so these lessons will shape me to not only be a great player but also a great man.

It has been very popular the last years Americans having a great season in Austria to come and play in Germany. Do you feel like you can make the next step in the Pro A and be an impact player?

I feel like I can win a championship in Pro A this year with BBC Bayreuth. I think I bring a lot of things to the table that make programs win. I am also a very versatile player which gives me the flexibility to do whatever is required of me each game to win, whether it’s for me to score, pass, rebound, or even defend. I think I am strong in all of those categories, and I’m also 100 percent devoted to winning and doing what’s best for the team.

How did the talks go with head coach Florian Wedel? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

Our conversations went great. I really appreciated his commitment and effort that he already showed in the offseason. He’s already a very smart, and talented coach with much knowledge of the game, so it was impressive and also very appreciated by me to see him still working extremely hard while having those essential skills as a coach.

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

I think a great comparison to my game right now would be a better playmaking version of Anthony Edwards

How big is versatility a staple in your game? You’re a very good volume rebounder for your size?

It’s very essential to my game because I have so many ways to get going. Sometimes if I’m a little out of rhythm offensively, I use things like defense to get a steal and score to get me going, or I get a rebound and push in transition to get going. It’s very important for my game because I feel like I’m not limited as a player having many tools and it allows me to play the right way which is winning basketball.

You never averaged more than 2,8apg in the NAIA and 3,9apg in Bosnia, but last season you averaged 6,0apg in Austria. Did you become more of a playmaker in Austria or did you always have playmaking abilities but didn´t have to use them?

Most of my career I was a playmaking point guard, when I got to college I was just needed to score in order for our team to be successful. After my season in Bosnia, I seen that I had a great scoring year leading the league in points but I wasn’t happy with the overall performance from the team so I studied a lot of film during my offseason and figured out things that I could have done better to help us win more. One thing was focus on play making again because my game draws a lot of attention from help defenders which makes that easy to do as long as you are aware.

You have always been a very ambitious defender. How would you classify yourself right now as a defender and where do you still want to take your defensive game to?

I think I am a great defender, but I still have a ton of room for improvement. With more focus and effort I think I can defend at the highest level of basketball. With my versatility I think defense can really be my selling point to play at the highest level possible.

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

I am always working on shooting the ball better, in a variety of situations Like off the dribble, catch and shoot, and also in screen and roll situations. I also been focusing a lot on the mental aspect of the game studying a lot of my playoff films as well as some film from Bayreuth last season as well to just take that next jump mentally to always be a step ahead and comfortable in any situation on the court.

Last season you played with Coldmaris BBC Nord Dragonz Eisenstadt (Austria-BSL) averaging 15.2ppg, 4.9rpg, Assists-4 (6.0apg), 1.5spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 71.6%. You reached the final losing to Oberwart. What was so special about this team?

I think the way our team was able to handle adversity, and come together during tough times was very special about this team. We had many games through the playoffs when we had comeback victories and that alone shows the grit, effort, determination, and leadership we had as a team which was essential to making it to the finals.
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In the playoffs you played in 2 really exciting series beating Wels and Gmunden. Which series was the tougher one to win?

I think Wels series was tougher just because they had more offensive fire power than Gmunden. Wels played at a high intensity for the whole game, as well as playing fast and looking for early offense. That made them the tougher opponent due to the runs they were capable of going on if we lost focus for even just a 2 minute spurt of the game.

You had an incredible triple double against Graz. How special will that game always be in your memories?

It was very special to me to see my work come together. What also made it more special was it being against a guy who is from my college town who I got to play against and train with before turning pro. I think it will be high in the ranks as one of my favorite moments but I also think many more games like that will come.

You played your second season overseas with HKK Posusje (Bosnia-Division I) averaging 19.7ppg), 5.8rpg, 3.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 60.8%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 66.5%. How do you remember this season? You wasted no time becoming an elite player in Bosnia.

I think this was an important part of my career. I learned a lot about basketball playing in Bosnia. Starting out, I was very talented and relied on being my talent and athleticism, but they taught me how to read the game and use more of my mind to dominate.

You played your first 2 seasons with Orthodox Bethlehem (Palestine-PBBA) and Orthodoxi Beit Sahour (Palestine-PBBA). What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I was very excited but I also was very nervous as well. Ultimately the nervousness drove me to work very hard and win a championship there.

What memories will you always have of Palestine? What was the coolest experience off the court? Were you invited to some cool parties in palaces?

The love that I got from the people there was amazing. I think the coolest experience I had was seeing Jesus birth place in Bethlehem.

You played 5 seasons and 125 games with Xavier University of Louisiana (NAIA). You won 2 GCAC titles in 2020 and 2021. Which title was sweeter?

I think the first one was the sweetest because that year really taught me how to win. It taught me the sacrifice necessary and standard of work required everyday to do that. We also had maybe one of the best teams every at Xavier that year, so it is by far my favorite season there. Practices was a constant battle and we had a group of guys who all were committed to helping the team when their number was called.

You made strides with your game each season and had big seasons in your last 2 seasons. How did your game grow there?

I think at Xavier, I got the opportunity to really get a lot of game experience and I had a big role since I got there as a freshman. That responsibility alone shaped me to be a great player. Originally I chose Xavier due to academics to become a doctor so when basketball started to workout, it made me really well rounded and I felt I had so much time which made it easy to invest in my game when I made the transition to become a pro.

You had many 30 plus points including against Texas College and Tougaloo just to name a few. What was your favorite game in the NAIA?

My favorite game would be the conference Tournament championship game against Tougaloo. Just knowing the adversity that was overcame in that game makes it my favorite. It has a lot to do with the player I am today.

How did head coach Alfred Williams groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Aj is super disciplined and hardworking. All through my college career we practiced 5-6 days out of the week at 5:30 every morning. Having to be on the floor starting our stretches at 5:15 by the latest so that means we had to get to the gym at 5 am. Things like that within his program really helped me value my time more, learn more and prioritize my work properly to be successful on the court and also as a young man.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or TJ Jones?

Me, maybe TJ beat me one time after a long day of practice haha.

Who is the toughest player that you ever battled against on the court that reached the NBA?

It’s a tie between Mike James and Lamar Peters

Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Ed Carter, Will Loyd, Chance Gasery, Aj Rainey, Kevin Johnson

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

Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Shaq, LeBron James, Steph Curry

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe Bryant

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

Yes, I think it was a good film but I also watched it with the expectations of it not having a chance to be better than the first one

Thanks Rayshawn for the chat.

Matthew Goodwin(London Lions) Knows That He Has To Be Almost Perfect Daily In Order To Get Minutes

Matthew Goodwin (188-PG-2005) is a 20 year old 188cm point guard currently playing for the London Lions (SLB). He began his basketball career with the Manchester Magic playing for their U-19 team averaging 16.7ppg, 5.6rpg, APG-3 (6.5), 2.5spg, FGP: 35.1%, 3PT: 29.9%, FT: 77.8% while also playing 6 BBL games. Last season he moved to the London Lions playing 27 games and averaging 1,0ppg. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against the Niners Chemnitz.

Thanks Matthew for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second season with the London Lions (SLB). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about it?

It has been nothing but a positive experience. I have learnt so much and improved so much at such a rapid rate

I have enjoyed the challenge the most. Playing against older and stronger players is going to be difficult but it has been fun competing against them and I love a challenge

Your playing a Eurocup game against German team Chemnitz. How have you followed German basketball the last years? Is there a German player that has really stood out to you?

I haven’t watched much German basketball if I’m being completely honest. I tend to watch Euroleague and Eurocup the most

The London Lions are having a great season in the SLB. How big is the hunger to win titles with this great organization?

The hunger is always there. The lions has had an incredible history of winning titles and it’s almost our duty as players to keep adding to the silverware

Currently the club is a top the SLB. What has been the secret to the success?

The secret is defense. Always has been and always will be. Our team´s ability to limit shots but also to make shots difficult has made our lives a lot easier on the offensive end. Our defense fuels our offense

What has it been like playing with such talented guards like ex NBA player Chasson Randle and Shaver Reynolds? What have you soaked up most from those 2 on and off the court?

Those 2 and loads others have been amazing role models. They show me loads of details on the floor and help me with my game. But further they show me what it takes to be a professional. Taking care of your body with recovery. Eating the right food. How to be a good husband. They have impacted me on and off the floor

There are many great UK players on the team as well with Williams, Rai and Sandy just to name a few? Which player has had the biggest impact on you?

Tarik Philip is the biggest impact. He shows so much interest into helping me get better and improving my game. He’s honest with me and firm but at the same time caring. He’s been a massive help

What has it been like playing for Tautvydas Sabonas? How has he helped shape you to be the player that you are today?

He’s intense let’s be honest. But that has brought the best out of me. He has made me be more hungry and more aggressive and proved I can do things I never thought I was capable of. He has brought out a side of me I didn’t know I had and it’s such a positive result

Let´s talk about your game. You have had sparse minutes last season and this season. How tough is the battle on a daily basis to get playing time for the Lions?

It’s a constant battle. You have to be almost perfect daily. And the people I´m competing with for minutes are Ex NBA players and some of the best UK talent so it is very difficult but like I said I love a challenge

You’re a 188cm guard that fills the stat sheet well. If you had to compare your game to an NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description?

I’d have to say Alex Caruso. Plays his role well. Plays solid defense and makes the right read. Hits an open shot if he has it and if in doubt can go ISO ball with a mismatch

You’re a guard that fills the stats sheet really well. Talk about your offensive game. What are your biggest strengths?

I’d say my biggest strength is shooting from behind the arc. Whether it’s a spot up 3 or a off the dribble 3. I’ve been missing a few in game recently but I know I can make the because I was last season in SLB

Your three pointer is still a work in progress. Talk a little bit about the development of your three pointer. What kind of a shooter are you now and where do you want to be in the next years?

Like I said I’m missing a few as of now. But I hope to become a 40-45% three point shooter. A threat on the catch and shoot and the pull up

Your also an ambitious defender. Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I think I’m a little nuisance. Out there to cause havoc and create a problem for the offense by being physical and disciplined. I want to become a sound defender. I want to be the guy you put out there to stop there best player

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

I want to improve my point guard skills. Reading the game quicker and understanding what to do when in terms of running plays

You began your basketball career with the Manchester Magic (NBL D2) How valuable were these early years for your basketball development? Did you have a mentor there?

Massively important. The foundations of my game were learnt there. I had loads of Coaches in Manchester, each of them providing something. Joe Forber, Sergio Lara Bercial, Will Brown and Peter Pareskeva are to name a few

You made a big jump in your game with the Manchester Magic Academy U19 team (U19 League) averaging 16.7ppg, 5.6rpg, APG-3 (6.5), 2.5spg, FGP: 35.1%, 3PT: 29.9%, FT: 77.8% in your last year. How did your game grow there?

It grew quickly. Teams were quick to learn that I could score so they adapted rapidly to forcing the ball out of my hands with a double team or Box and 1 defense. So it made me learn how to deal with such defense. But also gave me confidence to be more aggressive

You got your first BBL experience with the Magic. What do you remember from your first game in the BBL?

Technically my first BBL game was against Cheshire Phoenix with Manchester Magic in a Pre season match up. I hit a corner 3 and the crowd went wild!! I was only 16 so they were all happy to see me succeed

Last season you were teammates with experienced TU Holloway. What memories will you always have learning from a veteran like him? What could you soak up most from his game?

He is a veteran! He understands the game so well and has mastered his craft. His ability to get a bucket is like nothing I’ve ever seen. He taught me so much about how to use my body to create space and how to read defense quicker and better

You also have played for the UK U-18 and U-20 national teams. How is the state of British basketball at the moment? What young players are to watch in the next few years?

British basketball in my eyes is on the mend and will be getting much better soon

What is your biggest goal as a player? Is the Euroleague a realistic goal for you or do you have another big goal?

I think having an unrealistic goal is the entire point. So if you do reach your goal, you have reached a level no one thought you could. And if you fail you’ll end up higher than those who set a fixed goal. My goal is always Euroleague/NBA and always will be. Will I get there? I’m not sure but I’m putting in the work daily in order to get there

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

I’d have to say Ray Mcallum. He practiced with us for a little bit last season while he was in London. And he was such a creative and smart player and was always able to manipulate you to get what he wants

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

In no particular order. And this is in terms of teammates who are nice people and how they treated me

Ryan Mikesell

Sean Flood

Evan Walshe

Tarik Philip

Joel Scott

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of UK and NBA players?

UK

Luol Deng. Dan Clarke. Gabe Olaseni. Quin Ellis

NBA

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

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron James

Favourite player thouh is Mike James

Thanks Matthew for the chat.

It Doesn´t Matter If Dante Maddox Jr(Okapi Aalst) Scores 41, 45 or 50 Points Because His Only Goal Is Winning And Being A Good Teammate

Dante Maddox Jr. (188-G, college: Xavier) is a 188cm guard playing his rookie season with Okapi Aalst (Belgium-Pro Basketball League). He began his basketball career with Bloom High School and then played 2 seasons with California State University, Fullerton (NCAA) averaging 11.7ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 89.8% and 6.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 71.4%. He then played 2 seasons at The University of Toledo (NCAA) averaging 11.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 45.4%, FT: 75.2% and 15.5ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.7apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 86.0%. He then finished at Xavier University (NCAA) averaging 7.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 40.3%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 88.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after dropping 45 points against Antwerp.

You’re playing your rookie season for Okapi Aalst (Belgium-Pro Basketball League). You had 2 massive scoring games with 41 and 45 points. Before this season, you never averaged more than 15,5ppg in a season. Did you know that you had that scoring power in you?

I believe so, I have been lucky to play on some very good teams, and I have always played to win. I won all my years in college, so I’ve been willing to sacrifice my role and my scoring for the greater good and for my teams to win. I won 3 regular season championships in college (out of 5) so I’m most proud about that – and want to continue winning with Aalst.

This was your second 40 plus game as a rookie. Did the 45-point game feel differently than the 41-point game?

No, it didn’t – I come out consistent with my routine and my process in every game. We knew we were playing the best team in the league – a team coming off 12 straight wins in the BNXT – so I just put my best foot forward to give my team the best chance to win. The most important thing is that in both those games we all stepped up and came up big with a win.

Is your role in Belgium different to what you saw at the NCAA level?

My job is to do what my coaches and what the team requires of me, to make sure we win as many games as possible, regardless of my role.

You recently had a 45-point explosion against Antwerp. How quickly did you know that you would have another big scoring game?

My teammates put me in a great spot. We all found a great rhythm during the game – due to them having success early, it let me get to my spots, make some big shots and lock in on defense. I didn’t think about it much in the heat of the moment.

you feel being invincible like in the 41-point outburst

ZZ Leiden is a very strong team, but playing against the league’s 1-seed, there’s a feeling that there is more at stake. Coach devised an amazing plan to make sure the entire team was in lockstep, rowing in the same direction, playing great defense and making sure the entire team was “in the zone” – not just me. I definitely felt great though.

You shot at very high clips. How big of a role does shot selection play for you in general for the success of scoring a lot?

This goes back to college – one of the things I’ve always been able to do is score with less. I’ve always been an efficient player during my entire career. Here, I’ve been able to scale up my output – with trust and faith from our coaching staff and my teammates. Regarding shot selection – I am trying to adjust to the needs of the team so that we are winning games and playing at a high level.

You hit a lot of three´s and also from the 2-point range. How much of your points was pure isolation in comparison to getting open looks from your teammates?

Regardless of shooting off the catch or off the dribble in isolation situations, it all goes back to our team preparation, and coach putting all of us in position. We all make an effort to give each other the right spacing and freedom to score and find lanes to attack the basket. It’s a team game and I’m lucky to have a great setup with my guys.

You were only 5 points away from 50. Does 50 points become a new goal for you?

The only goal in my mind is winning and being a good teammate.

What was your own favorite bucket of the game?

The dunk in the first quarter, I fought hard through the screens and contested late, Niels got a great rebound and threw an outlet to me wide open. The 3pointer when the score was 66-61 also felt great – in a very important juncture of the game.

Did you get any special congrats from people after that performance?

The words my coach shared with me meant a lot. Won’t share what those were – but I am lucky to have him lead this team – and this win meant a lot to him too.

Thanks Dante for the chat.

Ivan Crnjac Nails 2 Clutch Shots In Crunch-Time To Propel The Skyliners Juniors To 74-70 Upset Win Over BBC Coburg

Sometimes all it takes to get back on track is filling the roster with some new bodies. That is exactly what the Skyliners Juniors did shortly before Xmas and bang the club was riding a 2 game winning streak. With the arrival of rookie Desmond Watson and experienced Pro A player Moses Poelking, the team was bolstered with serious scoring power with the American and inside stability from the German. Frankfurt wanted to keep the winning streak alive, but had no cake walk with top Pro B team BBC Coburg who were resting in first place and sparkled at both ends with top offense and defense qualities. It was one of those games where the Skyliners Juniors never gave up and didn´t capture their first lead until 30 seconds before the end. Sometimes it´s simply better late than never. The hero at the end was Ivan Crnjac (203-F-2007) with 2 clutch buckets and a massive block from Moses Poelking to seal the 74-70 victory. “We had a bad start and just weren´t focused. We didn´t play as a team at both ends. In the second half, we played better as a team and had more precision in our game. Our communication and presence on defense was outstanding. We filled all the holes and our will was so big to win”, stressed Skyliner Junior Ivan Crnjac. BBC Coburg played a great first half, but in the second half weren´t as strong anymore as they allowed Frankfurt to hang around and sneak out the win. “We had a great start and played with a very high intensity on the defensive end. We lost that in the second half. They got way too many easy baskets in the second half and they stepped up their defense and we weren´t able to convert the way we did in the first half”, stressed BBC Coburg forward Darius Dawson.

Lukas Smazak at the FT line

The first quarter belonged to BBC Coburg as they stormed out catching the Skyliners Juniors on the wrong foot going on a 17-2 run and after 10 minutes led very comfortably 27-12. American Darius Dawson who compares his game to San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle was a one man wrecking crew scoring the first 7 points with a trey and 2 lay in´s. Canadian Dylan Fasoyiro who compares his game to New York Knick Josh Hart also made a lay in while German Tim Herzog also scored with ease in the paint. BBC Coburg displayed their disciplined style moving the ball well as Frankfurt was unable to match their intensity. Frankfurt also coughed up the ball too much not getting adjusted to the aggressive defense of the guests. Rookie Desmond Watson was aggressive but his shots weren´t falling. Frankfurt then finally got better into their offense as ex Kronberg big man Florian Dietrich scored twice and ex Neustadt forward Leif Zentgraf also connected on a lay in. Frankfurt was more aggressive and found some cracks in the zone to get their inside game to work. However Frankfurt´s improved game was slowed down a bit as ex Skyliner Junior Leo Cosic dropped a huge trey at the buzzer to give BBC Coburg the 15 point advantage after 10 minutes. BBC Coburg shot 60% from the field and 57% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 29% form the field and 0% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 7 turnovers. “We had a horrible start and had 2 turnovers in a row. We didn´t do a good job keeping our man in front of us on 1-1 defense”, stressed Ivan Crnjac.

Dylan Fasoyiro from outside

BBC Coburg continued their consistency in the second quarter as they controlled the game and led 48-30 at half-time. The Skyliners Juniors kept up their spirited play in the second quarter and continued to execute well as Dusan Nikolic and Desmond Watson made lay in´s, but BBC Coburg had the comfortable 31-18 lead. Skyliners Juniors head coach Markus Klusemann gave Florian Dietrich the green light and the German responded doing a good job getting good position near the rim and scored 3 buckets in a row and suddenly Frankfurt trailed only 33-25. But BBC Coburg did a great job staying calm and punched back the way a top team should with a lethal 13-0 run to extend their lead to 46-25. BBC Coburg played great team basketball and just showed pretty love sharing the ball and getting a lot of support from all and took good care of the ball. BBC Coburg played some long ball and showed their great three point qualities getting long bombs from 17 year old German Felix Egger, Austrian Nico Holleri and Fasoyiro. Frankfurt got very sloppy again turning the ball over too much and couldn´t play their fast game. Frankfurt was lucky to get 5 consecutive points from Desmond Watson to close in the gap a bit and trail by 18 points at the break. BBC Coburg shot 50% from the field and 47% from the three point line and had 18 rebounds and 5 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 39% from the field and 11% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 11 turnovers. “The second quarter was like the first quarter. We gave up another run, but hit a few more shots, but overall, we weren´t ready on defense”, commented Ivan Crnjac.

Desmond Watson on the drive

In the third quarter the Skyliners Juniors continued to fight and come back step by step and executed a lot better on offense outscoring BBC Coburg 26-13 to trail only 61-56 after 30 minutes. The Skyliners Juniors had a great start going on a 8-2 run to trail only 50-38. In the run, Frankfurt was sparked by universal genius Ivan Crnjac who scored back to back drives while Florian Dietrich continued to be a nasty beast scoring twice in the paint. Frankfurt had nothing lax about their game as their intensity was growing possession by possession. Frankfurt wasn´t able to get over the hump as despite getting 2 vital lay in´s by Watson, BBC Coburg continued to hit big three´s as Hollerl and Egger hit and they were able to hold the 60-44 lead. BBC Coburg always had an answer and were able weather the storm in difficult situations. What the Skyliners Juniors needed was a big play and that was exactly what they got as ex Pro A player Moses Poelking supplied the big throw down to trail 60-46. That big play sparked Frankfurt as they closed out the last minutes with a lethal 10-1 run to trail only by 5 points with 10 minutes to play. Watson continued to be aggressive adding 6 points while Edoka stroked home a trey. “Frankfurt moved the ball better and Watson was able to create for himself. Frankfurt did allow some open three´s, but overall their 1-1 defense was superb”, stated TV Langen forward Drago Crnjac. “Frankfurt increased their defensive intensity. We had massive problems being able to get into our offense”, said Darius Dawson. BBC Coburg shot 47% from the field and 50% from the parking lot and had 22 rebounds and 8 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 45% from the field and 20% from the parking lot n and had 29 rebounds and 12 turnovers.

Darius Dawson at the FT line

The Skyliners continued to battle in their come back in the fourth quarter and were rewarded in crunch-time as they hit clutch shots and got a big defensive play to seal the win. Dawson put BBC Coburg on the board first in the fourth quarter with a 20 footer as they led 63-56. However the Skyliners Juniors continued to put a lot of pressure defensively on the guests which caused turnovers and Lukas Smazak had a big block while Watson made a lay in and Jamie Edoka hit free throws as Frankfurt trailed 63-60. Both teams now traded baskets as Frankfurt was so close to gaining the lead, but just couldn´t yet. BBC Coburg got baskets from Herzog and Dawson while Frankfurt got key scores from Watson and 5 points from Edoka, but the guests led 68-67 as the lead wasn´t far away for the Skyliners Juniors. BBC Coburg kept the pressure on as Herzog made a lay in as BBC Coburg led 70-67. But that was the last points that BBC Coburg would achieve as the Skyliners Juniors closed out the game with a 7-0 run to win. Ivan Crnjac took over in the last minute scoring 2 baskets in a row and his second which was the winner was a pretty off balance shot of the glass. “My three wasn´t falling so I decided to attack. They were always coming out at me at the line so I drove. I saw the help coming over and I had no pass so I tried to finish as best as I could”, stressed Ivan Crnjac. “Ivan made a big difference. He made big shots, rebounded well and made big steals”, added Drago Crnjac. Frankfurt wanted to win so bad which showed when Leif Zentgraf was hit hard on the head while helping on defending Dawson who was blocked by Poelking which led to Edoka free throws and the 73-70 lead with 17 seconds to paly. “The block was a big moment. I saw Leif covering Dawson and I wanted to help. I´m glad I was able to get the block”, smiled Moses Poelking. Holleri then missed a shot and Ivan Crnjac made a free throw to seal the win. “This was a total team effort. Frankfurt played outstanding defense in the fourth quarter. Frankfurt played good team ball and were consistent on defense”, stated Drago Crnjac. “Their intensity was different at the end. You could feel their pressure and nothing was easy for us anymore. They communicated really well on defense”, added Darius Dawson. The Skyliners Juniors were led by Desmond Watson with 28 points while Florian Dietrich added 14 points and Jamie Edoka 12 points while BBC Coburg were led by Darisu Dawson with 19 points while Nico Hollerl had 13 points and Dylan Fasoyiro added 12 points. The Skyliners Juniors shot 44% from the field and 18% from outside and had 41 rebounds and 16 turnovers while BBC Coburg shot 415 from the field and 40% from outside and had 31 rebounds and 12 turnovers.

               

Quashawn Lane Powers The ETB Miners Essen To Season Sweep Of The Dragons Rhondorf 107-78

The Dragons Rhondorf ended 2025 on a positive note with a big win at home against Neustadt and started 2026 with a big win against the TKS 49ers and all looked rosy, but then stunk up the arena in Iserlohn allowing 100 points. They had been on a good track allowing 76 points on average in the 2 wins, but then lost their defensive identity again in Iserlohn. Their next task didn´t get any easier as they welcomed top team the ETB Miners from Essen who were sitting a top the Pro B north standings with a 14-2 record. They had the best offense in the league and belonged to the best defensive teams as well allowing only 74 points on average per game. Dragons Rhondorf head coach Max Becker had to be on his A-game coaching wise and his players had to be wide awake against the best 3 point shooting team and a club that had 4 rugged big men ready to clash under the boards. However a game has 40 minutes and the Deargons Rhondorf stayed with Essen for 14 minutes having the 31-30 advantage, but then allowed a 23-7 run to spark the ETB Miners Essen to the big lead and something they would manage well until the end winning 107-78. “We knew that there was good energy at their place and we had to be ready. We wanted to get the ball inside a lot and be a presence inside. We did that and had quick decisions and a good flow. We also wanted to make it hard for Reinhart who we had under control”, stressed Essen guard Quashawn Lane (188-G-1999, college: New Haven). The Dragons season continues to be a roller coaster as they have good defensive performances and then again real stinky ones where they couldn´t find any consistency. 23 turnovers and losing the rebound battle by 19 and allowing 26 offensive rebounds sealed the loss for them. “They are a tough team. We simply lacked team habits. We didn´t rebound well as a team even when we showed moments of effort as a team. They had too much fire power and did a great job capitalizing on our mistakes very often”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf guard Juhwan Harris-Dyson.

Ben Uzoma at the FT line

The first quarter had a rapid start by the Dragons Rhondorf only to see the guests punch back with a massive run and lead easily 23-16 after 10 minutes. The Dragons Rhondorf began swiftly with a 6-0 run as ex Oberaching center Benjamin Sadikovic had 2 scores in the paint and ex RheinStar guard Kenan Reinhart buried free throws. The ETB Miners couldn´t come to terms with the Dragons aggressiveness and also seemed a bit nervous as nothing went right for them. However Essen finally calmed down and hit Rhondorf with an annoying 14-0 run to lead 14-6. In the run the guests received great firepower as their inside out game sparkled as Lane made 2 lay in´s while ex Itzehoe forward Niclas Sperber and Canadian guard Mychael Paulo dropped three´s while ex Dresden guard Marc Friederici made a steal and dunk. Rhondorf lost intensity and coughed up the ball too much as they couldn´t find any good shots on offense. The individual qualities of the ETB Miners really stood out and the team had 13 points off turnovers. The Dragons struck back with Dusan Iilic free throws and a trey from ex Real Madrid junior player Jorge Mejias to trail 16-11. Ilic followed with a trey and Mejias a floater as all of a sudden the Dragons trailed only 18-16. However the season of the Dragons has been plagued by these crucial ups and downs as they relinquished a 5-0 run to trail by 7 points after one quarter. Paulo hit an off balance jumper while ex Wulfen guard Gabriel Jung connected on a trey. “We did a god job weathering the storm early and punching back”, stressed Quashawn Lane. The ETB Miners Essen shot 39% from the field and 33% from outside and had 13 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 31% from the field and 25% from outside and had 12 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Jorge Mejias with the lay in

In the second quarter there were 2 big runs, but like in the first quarter, the ETB Miners Essen had the last punch and led comfortably 53-38 at half-time. The Dragons Rhondorf came out reborn into the second quarter going on a 15-7 run to steal back the lead at 31-30. In the run the Dragons Rhondorf hit the 3 well as California native Harris-Dyson connected twice while young German Vuk Scepanovic also scored. Kenan Reinhart also added 3 points with a lay in and free throws. The Dragons did a better job taking care of the ball having less turnovers and upped their defensive intensity. However Essen didn´t let that Dragons run irritate them as they hit back with a massive 23-7 run to go into the break with the 15 point advantage. The ETB Miners spread the offensive love around as Croatian forward Leon Kalinic added 7 points as he demonstrated his inside out game while Marc Friederici was also a menace connecting on 2 three´s while Lane also stayed aggressive adding 5 points. The Dragons Rhonndorf continued to have difficulty rebounding allowing too many second chances for Essen and the communication on the defensive end was also lacking as well as their physicality. “We did a good job coming out of adversary again and then just played our game. We read their decisions on the pick and roll well and played off the chips that fell”, stated Quashawn Lane. The ETB Miners Essen shot 49% from the field and 39% from the three point line and had 28 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 39% from the field and 47% from the three point line and had 17 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

Leon Kalinic from outside

In the third quarter the ETB Miners continued to manage their lead well and never allowed the Dragons Rhondorf to get over the hump. The Dragons Rhondorf got off to a stellar start again like in the first quarter going on a 9-2 run to trail 55-47. Ex Neustadt forward Duje Dujmovic got going supplying 4 points in the paint, Mejias nailed a trey while Harris-Dyson dropped free throws. However Essen always had an answer hitting back to back three´s from Friederici and Paulo and then suddenly Essen led nicely again with 61-47. Both teams scored well, but the Dragons just couldn´t get closer than 8 points. Ultimate role player Liagi Diallo hit a trey, Dujmovic a runner and Ilic a jumper, but trailed 66-58. Rhondorf kept fighting, but just continued to have problems rebounding and finding a better offensive rhythm and allowed a brutal 12-4 run in the last few minutes to trail 78-62 after 30 minutes. In the run of Essen, they continued to attack the rim well and executed well with their added Athlecism as Paulo scored twice and Lane also scored. Rhondorf had a few good looks, but also a few turnovers and allowed offensive rebounds that allowed the guests to extend their lead. “We worked hard and well on the boards. Coach prides us on attacking the offensive glass and we worked and got many offensive rebounds and second chances. He tells us to be disciplined and just be in the right spot”, warned Quashawn Lane. “It was the little things that cost us. They wanted it more and were more aggressive and physical than we were”, commented Juhwan Harris-Dyson. The ETB Miners Essen shot 45% from the field and 36% from the parking lot and had 45 rebounds and 9 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 44% from the field and 43% from the parking lot and had 25 rebounds and 15 turnovers.

Juhwan Harris-Dyson at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the ETB Miners Essen continued to display their ruthless offensive fire power connecting for 29 points and eclipsed the 100 points for the second time as young German Lukas Ophelders hit for the magic 100 points. “Lukas will supply the donuts for us on Monday in practice”, smiled Quashawn Lane. The Dragons Rhondorf got on the board first as Sadikovic supplied instant energy with a thunderous dunk to trail 78-64. But that was as close as the Dragons would get in the final frame as Essen exploded for a 14-1 run to lead 92-65 putting the exclamation mark on the win. In the run, Essen began with a Jung trey and Sperber free throws and then got 2 three´s from Kalinic and free throws from Paulo off 3 turnovers in a row by the Dragons. Then came a pretty sequence by Harris Dyson who had a tough day from the free throw line going 3/10 as he scored 2 consecutive baskets as he made a tap in on an alley op pass from Mejias after his steal and then made a steal and lay in to trail 92-69. “I always play until clock says 0. I always want to win. We continued to fight and wanted to show our pride”, added Juhwan Harris-Dyson. Essen continued to be aggressive and simply never let up as Kalinic hit another trey and Lane scored inside with an acrobatic lay in for the 102-78 advantage. “I´m a player that can finish in many ways. I remained aggressive and saw an open lane”, smiled Quashawn Lane. “We kept making mistakes and missed assignments on defense. It is really deflating when you have so many turnovers. We have much room to improve”, warned Juhwan Harris-Dyson. “We never let up. Despite our record, we have been tested a lot this season. We have seen a lot of adversary this season, but do a good job remaining poised. We stick together and go from possession to possession”, stated Quashawn Lane. The ETB Miners had 6 players in double figures in scoring and were led by Leon Kalinic with 20 points. Quashawn Lane added a potent 18/7/6/4 game while Mychael Paulo had 17 points and Gabriel Jung had 14 points while the Dragons Rhondorf were led by Juhwan Harris-Dyson with 15 points while Jorge Mejias had 14 points and 11 assists. The ETB Miners Essen shot 45% from the field and 44% from outside and had 54 rebounds and 14 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 44% from the field and 35% from outside and had 35 rebounds and 23 turnovers.

JUCO Taught John Williams(Bayer Giants Leverkusen) To Fight For Everything And To Block Out Excuses

John Williams (193-SG-1999, college: FIU) is a 193cm guard playing his third pro season and first with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen (Pro A) currently averaging 14,7ppg, 3,7rpg and 1,4apg. Last season he played with at BKM Lucenec (Slovakia-Tipos SBL) averaging 13.4ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 44.0%, FT: 58.3%. He played his rookie season with EJ Sligo All-Stars (Ireland-Super League) averaging 23.1ppg, 8.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.3spg, 2PT: 63.8%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 67.7%. He began his basketball career with TW Josey High Schooö and then played a season with Ventura College (JUCO): He then played a season with Barton County Community College (JUCO) averaging 8.6ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 75.0%. He then played 2 seasons with Glenville State College (NCAA2) averaging 27.8ppg, 7.5rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 74.2% and 24.4ppg, 8.6rpg, 3.9apg, 1.2spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 71.4%. He then finished his college career at Florida International University (NCAA) averaging 5.3ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 16.0%, FT: 61.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.

Thanks John for talking to germanhoops.com. After stops in Ireland and Slovakia, your journey continues in Germany. How blessed are you to be able to play overseas?

I feel extremely blessed. Basketball has opened doors for me to experience different cultures, meet incredible people, and grow both as a player and as a person. Not everyone gets the chance to live out their dream and travel the world doing what they love, so I don’t take a single day for granted.

If one looks at the stats, you have only been overseas as a player for 4 months your first years. Do you in a way still feel like a rookie this season in Germany?

In some ways, yes because every new country and league brings its own style, challenges, and learning curve. But at the same time I train and play against a lot of high level pros all summer so I carry the experience and lessons from those guys with me. I approach each game with the mindset of a student, but also with the confidence that I can perform on any level.

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

Germany has a very organized and competitive basketball system, with great fan support and a strong tradition of developing talent. It’s a country that takes its sports seriously, and basketball here is growing every year, especially with the recent success of the national team.

Have you ever had any ex teammates, opponents or friends ball in Germany? Ex Grenville State great Lamar Mallory played successfully in Germany years ago.

Yes, I’ve had a few connections who played here, and I’ve always heard great things about the professionalism and competitiveness of the German leagues.

Your playing for German Pro A team Bayer Giants Leverkusen. Were you aware of the amazing history of this organization? What were the main reasons for joining this fine organization?

Yes, I was aware. The Giants have a rich tradition and are one of the most storied clubs in German basketball history. The winning culture, strong fan base, and the chance to play in a respected organization made this an easy choice. I wanted to be somewhere that values team success and player development, and Leverkusen checks all the boxes

How did the talks go with German basketball legend Mike Koch? Did you know that he won the 1993 Euro and won a Euroleague title? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

Talking with Coach Mike was inspiring I could tell he understands what it takes to win at the highest level. What I appreciated most is his emphasis on team first basketball and attention to detail. He wants us to play smart, disciplined, and together, which fits my style perfectly.

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 fill the description?

John Wall.

You’re an amazing scorer as well as a great rebounder. What other strengths does your offensive game posses?

I say my versatility. I’m comfortable creating my own shot, spacing the floor as a shooter, and attacking closeouts. I take pride in reading defenses and making the right play, whether that’s scoring or setting up a teammate. I also like to push the pace in transition and keep the defense on its heels.

Your also a very amazing rebounder. What is your secret to being able to rebound at a high volume despite your height?

It comes down to effort, timing, and anticipation. A lot of it is just wanting the ball more than the next guy,rebounding is as much about mentality as it is about size.

You have averaged 39% from outside in your last 2 seasons. What do you credit your improvement to shooting the ball better in the last 2 years?

Consistency in my work. I put a lot of reps in the gym, focusing not just on volume but on game-speed shooting. I’ve also worked on my shot preparation being ready before I catch the ball and making sure my mechanics stay the same every time. Confidence plays a big role, too.

How would you describe your defensive game at the moment? What kind of a defender do you still want to become?

Right now, I’d say I’m a versatile, physical defender who can guard multiple positions and disrupt passing lanes. I want to become an even more ELITE on-ball defender someone who can consistently lock down top scorers and be trusted in any matchup late in the game

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

I’m working on expanding my playmaking making quicker reads and creating more opportunities for teammates. I’m also focusing on improving my free throw percentage.

Last season you played with BKM Lucenec (Slovakia-Tipos SBL) averaging 13.4ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 44.0%, FT: 58.3%. How tough was this season? You signed late at the end of Feb and played only a month. Were you even able to unpack in Slovakia?

It was definitely a whirlwind. Signing that late in the season, I had to adjust quickly to a new system, new teammates, new environment all in a short period of time. Honestly, I barely had time to unpack, but it taught me how to adapt fast and be ready to contribute right away.

You played your rookie season with EJ Sligo All-Stars (Ireland-Super League) averaging 23.1ppg, 8.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.3spg, 2PT: 63.8%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 67.7%. You were only 3 months in Ireland. Why was the stay so short and what positives could you soak up from this experience?

My time in Ireland was short because I got hurt unfortunately. But I learned a lot especially about adapting quickly to a new style of play and being a leader in a short time frame. The fans and community in Sligo were amazing, and it gave me confidence knowing I could make an impact right away in a new environment.

How vital was it from your basketball development going to 4 schools with 2 Juco, I D-1 and one D-2 school. How did you become a more rounded player by seeing so many different things at each school?

It was huge for my growth. Every program had a different system, coaching style, and set of expectations. I learned to be adaptable, to find ways to contribute no matter the role, and to absorb as much as I could from each stop. By the time I finished college, I had seen just about every kind of basketball environment, which made me a more complete and resilient player

You played at JUCO schools Ventura College and Barton County Community College (JUCO). Every guy that I have interviewed that have played JUCO have reported that JUCO was a real grind, but an unforgettable experience. How was it for you and how vital was it for your development as a player and man?

JUCO was definitely a grind, long days, tough practices, and a lot of guys hungry for the same opportunities. It taught me discipline and mental toughness. You learn to fight for everything you get and to block out excuses. Those years shaped my work ethic and prepared me for the challenges of higher levels.

You then played 2 seasons at Glenville State College (NCAA2) averaging 27.8ppg, 7.5rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 74.2% and 24.4ppg, 8.6rpg, 3.9apg, 1.2spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 71.4%. Your game really took off in these 2 years. What kind of a player were you coming in and what kind of player did you become?

Coming in, I was more of a scoring guard who relied heavily on athleticism and getting to the rim. Over my two seasons there, I developed into a more complete player, improving my shooting, decision-making, and leadership. I became someone who could score in multiple ways, involve teammates, and take on more responsibility on both ends of the floor.

How key was head coach Justin Caldwell for your development? What could you soak up most from his basketball wisdom?

Coach Caldwell was extremely important. He believed in me and gave me the green light to play my game while also challenging me to be better in areas I wasn’t as strong. He emphasized preparation, poise, and playing the game the right way, which helped me mature as both a player and a person

You had some incredible games at Glenville State like hitting Frostburg State for 52 points and had a magical triple double of 23/10/14 against Davis and Elkins. What was your favorite game there?

The 52-point game against Frostburg State will always stand out, nights like that don’t come often. But the triple-double against Davis & Elkins might be my favorite because it showed the all-around impact I could have on a game, not just scoring.

You then finished at Florida International University (NCAA) averaging 5.3ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 16.0%, FT: 61.9%. How did your game profit there? You had good minutes in the first few months, then they went down for 5 weeks and then in the last month you had good minutes again. What were the reasons for the fluctuations?

My time at FIU helped me get used to the speed, athleticism, and physicality of the D1 level. Even when my minutes dipped, I treated every practice like game prep and just focused on getting better.In situations like that you just have to stay ready so you don’t have to get ready and control what you can control

How did head coach Jeremy Ballard give you that last push to be prepared for a pro career?

Coach Ballard was big on playing hard every single day. He pushed me to be sharper with my reads, more disciplined defensively, and being a more vocal leader. That level of daily accountability is something I’ve carried into my pro career it’s not about how good you are one night, but how consistent you can be night after nigh

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Denver Jones?

We really don’t play 1s often versus each other but the times we did, we both walked away knowing we couldn’t take a possession off. Our series is 1-1.

Who is the toughest player that you ever battled that reached the NBA?

Toughest players I had to battle that make the NBA is definitely the guys I faced in summer runs and workouts. Those games are competitive and physical, and you really see the difference in pace, shot making, and decision making from NBA players. One that stands out is probably Bones Hyland

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Thats a tough question because I’ve had so many great teammates on and off the court but if I had to choose I would probably say : Elijah Ford (Juco Teammate), Denver Jones (FIU Teammate), Arturo Dean (FIU Teammate), Nick Edwards (Glenville Teammate), Adrian Scarborough ( Glenville Teammate) and Hegel Augustin (Glenville Teammate)

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

For me my mount Rushmore is Jordan, Bron, Kobe, and KD or Steph.

Who is your GOAT?

My goat is Kobe, #LongLiveTheMama

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

I actually don’t remember that sequel I will go back and watch it when I get a chance.

Thanks John for the chat.

Rookie Gabe Dorsey(Patrioti Levice)t Has Held His Own In Slovakia And The BCL And Is Keen On Becoming A 2 Way Player

Gabe Dorsey (198-G/F, college: William & Mary) is a 198cm forward from Pennsylvania playing his rookie season with Patrioti Levice (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). He began his basketball career at the Hill School. He then played one season at Vanderbilt (NCAA) before finishing at the College Of William And Mary (NCAA) where he played from 2022-2025. In his last 2 years he averaged 14.1ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 89.0% and : 13.4ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 81.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Wurzburg.

Thanks Gabe for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season overseas for Patrioti Levice (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about it?

It’s been a great experience overall. Of course there are always peaks and valleys with every season, but I’ve gained a lot of valuable experience and played in multiple important games in just the last few months. I’ve enjoyed playing on the Champions League stage the most. It’s been great playing in and having an impact in so many high level games in just my first season as a professional.

How have you adjusted to the Slovakian way of life? What have you learned to appreciate most about the culture?

I’ve adjusted pretty well, and the one thing I truly appreciate about the culture which has helped me adjust so well is the love and support from the fans in Levice. I’m very appreciative.

Patrioti Levice are the top team in the Slovakian league. The team is looking forward to winning it´s 5th league title in a row. How huge is the winning culture within the organization?

The winning culture is very important within this organization, and everyone from top to bottom recognizes that the ultimate goal is to continue to win championships.

How much fun is it playing on a team that is winning? What exactly is your role as a rookie?

It’s been very fun to play on a winning team, and this incentivizes continuing to win at a high level. My role as a rookie has been to do what I do best, and that is to make shots when the ball is swung to me.

How key has veteran Andre Wesson been for you? Has he been like a mentor for you? How has he helped your game most?

Andre has been very helpful for me as a veteran. He’s mainly reminded me to stay solid through the highs and lows of the season. He’s more so somebody who leads by example, and through watching him, I’ve picked up on a few tricks that he uses in order to score more and draw fouls. He’s very skilled at using his frame in the mid post and drawing contact in order to get himself to the free throw line, especially when his shot may not be falling as much as usual. I would like to incorporate those things into my game in the future.

Your playing a very strong rookie season in both the SBL and BCL. What has been your secret to adjusting so quickly to overseas ball?

I think my main focus which has helped me is to keep the main thing the main thing. I try to play to my strengths and not get outside of myself. My strength is my ability to shoot the ball with range, and I know that with such a skill, I can utilize it to open up other areas of my game. I have to continue to improve all around, but I think that has helped me to have the mild success I’ve had. However, I know I have plenty more to give.

Let´s talk some more about your game. You’re a 198cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

Klay Thompson. He is obviously a deadly three point shooter, and he has always utilized the threat of his long range ability to open up other aspects of his scoring repertoire. That is how I aspire to be.

Your shooting over 40% from outside in both competitions and shot over 40% in 2 of 3 seasons at William & Mary. Are you more than just a shooter? What other strengths does your game have?

I am more than just a shooter. Teams have focused more on running me off the three point line as of late, and I believe that I’ve shown flashes of my ability to be accurate in the mid range with floaters and other shots in that area. With the speed and physicality of the professional game, it’s obviously a lot different from college, so I recognize that I need to continue to get reps with every skill in order to become the player I aspire to become, which is not solely a three point shooter.

You’re a great shooter now. Is consistency your biggest goal now as a shooter. You have proven that you can shoot at a high clip in many seasons. How else can you continue to become a better shooter?

Consistency is an important goal of mine as a shooter, but also being quicker and more efficient with my release and as a movement shooter with or without the ball. I have to continue to improve as an off the dribble shooter, while also having the ability to fly off of screens, catch, and shoot quickly.

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

This is the area in which I would like to improve the most. I am a decent team defender and an average one on one defender, and I need to be better at having active hands on the ball and in passing lanes. I also need to get stronger in both my upper and lower body in order to absorb bumps better and stand my ground defensively. I ultimately want to become a two way player.

Your also credited as having an amazing work ethic. On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?

I’ve been working the most on my floaters. With the way that defenders lunge out at me at the three point line, I can drive past guys with one or two dribbles and get to a comfortable runner in the lane over taller secondary defenders. I am continuing to improve at reading closeouts overall, recognizing when to shoot the three and when to attack or move the ball.

You played your freshman season at Vanderbilt (NCAA) but played only 21 games and averaged only 0,7ppg while getting only 6,6 minutes per game. This was a real learning experience for you. What positives could you gain from it?

That year definitely taught me a lot. I learned how to deal with adversity, and it led me to realize how much of playing basketball is a mental battle rather than physical. That year ultimately taught me that true confidence comes from within. You can’t look externally for something or someone to pick you up when you’re down. You have to have an impenetrable mentality and belief in yourself as a basketball player even through the lows that come with playing the game.

You credit your dad for transporting the love of the game to you as a kid. How vital was he after your growing pains at Vanderbilt? What advice do you remember him giving you?

My Dad and I are very close, and he has always allowed me the ability to talk to him about anything I’m going through. The main advice he continued to give me throughout that year is that in order to become a man, you have to fight through adversity with everything you have.

You then moved to the College of William & Mary (NCAA) averaging 10.9ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 76.9%, 14.1ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 89.0% and 13.4ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 81.3%. Was this the best basketball decision in your life?

I definitely believe transferring to William and Mary was the best basketball decision of my life. I developed into a high level basketball player there, and one of the best shooters in the country, just like I always believed I could become. More importantly I built relationships with many great people at the school and in the basketball program, which I will certainly cherish forever.

After being teammates in high school, you and brother Caleb were reunited again at William & Mary. He is a rookie in Slovenia. How has he helped your game most over the years?

Caleb has helped my game tremendously because he has always motivated me to become a better player. He’s older than me by more than a year, and he’s always been a talented all around player, so seeing him dominate ever since we were young always made me want to follow in his footsteps. He’s always been a very selfless player as well, so when we became teammates in high school, he was always setting me up for open looks and easy shots, allowing me to shine, and this carried over into our time at William and Mary.

You had many great games in the NCAA like hitting Hampton for 30 points and 7 three´s. What was your fondest moment on the court in the NCAA?

I would say that game against Hampton that you mentioned is my fondest on court memory in the NCAA. Not only did I have 30 points with 7 threes and 7 rebounds, but I also reached the 1,000 point mark for my college career in that game as well. In addition, all of this took place while my parents, Grandmother, mine and Caleb’s oldest brother Josh, and many of my aunts and uncles were all in attendance, and the game was broadcast nationally on CBS Sports Network.

How did head coaches Dane Fischer and Brian Earl groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I have a lot of love and respect for both Coach Fischer and Coach Earl, and I learned a lot from a great basketball mind in Coach Stackhouse at Vanderbilt as well. I deeply appreciate Coach Fischer because he really gave me a lot of confidence and support in my transition to William and Mary, when I needed it the most. He allowed me to play my game and he appreciated my skillset and who I was as a person. Coach Earl continued that but in a more subtle way, and I believe I also learned a lot more tactical and strategic things about the game in my year playing for Coach Earl. I’m able to think the game at a much higher level now because of it. I’ve carried these things forward, because confidence and basketball IQ are the two most vital attributes to have at the professional level outside of physical skill.

Who won a 1-1 in practice your or brother Caleb?

Caleb used to beat me all the time growing up because he has been taller and stronger than me our entire lives. But as we’ve matured, my shotmaking abilities have allowed me to counter his physical advantages, so our matchups are much more even. Nowadays neither of us solely beats the other every time.

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

I would say Jabari Smith Jr. My freshman year at Vanderbilt, we played against him at Auburn when he was also teammates with Walker Kessler, and he scored 30 points against us on mostly jump shots.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Caleb Dorsey, Xavier Mayo, Chase Audige, Matteus Case, Noah Collier (I apologize if I’m forgetting anyone)

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

LeBron James, Michael Jordan, 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 actually have never seen Coming to America unfortunately, but that’s a movie that my teammates make fun of me for not having watched yet.

Wisdom Uboh’s (DBV Charlottenburg) Height Has Made It Challenging Getting In Certain Doors But Once In The Door He Proved People Wrong

Wisdom Uboh (178-PG, college: Columbus St.) is a 178cm guard that is playing his rookie season overseas with DBV Charlottenburg (Germany-Regionalliga) currently averaging 24,2ppg, 5,5rpg, 4,6apg and 1,5spg. He began his college career at Chattahoochee Valley Community College (JUCO) averaging 13.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.2apg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 84.1%. He then played at Columbus State University (NCAA2) from 2021-2025 and in his last 2 seasons averaged 14.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 39.2%, FT: 86.5% and 13.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 82.7%. He got his first pro experience with the Georgia Spartans (UBA) averaging 11.3ppg, 3.0rpg, Assists-5 (2.5apg), Steals-5 (1.3spg), FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 35.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball last summer.

Thanks Wisdom on talking with germanhoops.com. How blessed do you feel to be playing overseas? Not many guys from Columbus State have come overseas.

I appreciate you for talking to me and thank you it is a blessing. I feel like my dreams of becoming a professional basketball player are coming true. I feel extremely blessed to start that first step as well. And yes it is not easy going professional especially from a division 2 so I will not take it for granted.

You have a cool name with Wisdom. How did you get that name?

Thank you. I love my name. My parents are originally from Nigeria, and some Nigerians like to name the kids that they have with meaning. For instance my sister’s name is Precious and my brother’s name is Divine.

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

I know Germany has well respected leagues across the world and also has a lot of great players in the NBA, and a lot of hall of famers came from Germany. Therefore, I know Germany is no stranger to basketball, and are really talented and competitive.

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

Yes I had a couple of old teammates and opponents play in Pro B. Also had a teammate that plays in Regionlliga.

How confident are you that you can be a impact player in the Regionalliga? How special is your heart?

I am very confident. All my career I have been extremely competitive so I know I will put my best foot forward every time. I hold myself to a very high standard.

Your only 178cm. I’m sure you have heard it all about your size. How challenging has basketball life been the last years always having to prove yourself?

The only thing that has been challenging to me is getting in certain doors. However, when I get in the door I prove people wrong time and time again.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 178cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

If I had to compare myself to an NBA player I would say a little bit of Isaiah Thomas, Jalen Brunson, and Fred Van Vleet.

You fill the stat sheet well. What are your biggest assets on the court?

My biggest Asset is my shooting, and coming off ball screens to create plays for myself and others.

You have shot the ball really well from outside the last years in the NCAA 2. Where do you see the development of your outside shot and what level do you still want to reach?

Over the years I have been more consistent, and making shots in different ways. Off the dribble, off the catch and any other way. I am still looking to improve. I want to be as efficient as possible.

What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I think I am a good defender. I like to speed people up and cause a disruption especially when opposing point guards set up the offense. I want to become better on ball defender though, and its always room for improvement.

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

Scoring off the dribble mainly pulling up and floaters and other finishing.

You began your career at Chattahoochee Valley Community College (JUCO) averaging 13.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.2apg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 84.1%. Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO have said that JUCO was tough, but an experience they would have traded the world for. How was it for you?

Yes I did, My time at Chattahoochee Valley was great, and it was actually under the head coach Ben Hicks. Juco is tough and it is not easy at all. I loved the experience because everyone on our team was mature and all new what we needed to do. Which was win games.

How valuable was head coach Ben Hicks in your early basketball development? How did he help you most?

He was great for my development and believed in me since day 1. He made me feel at home at CVCC, and I appreciate him till this day for it.

You played 4 years at Columbus State University (NCAA2) averaging 14.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 39.2%, FT: 86.5% and 13.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 82.7%. Your game made big strides. How did your game grow in those last 2 years?

My game took a leap every year because I am around the game so much. Naturally that makes my game improve and I love adding different things to my game every year to make myself better.

You had 2 great games against USCB as a junior. In one game you had 8 steals. What memories do you have of that game?

That game was one of the craziest games I have been a part of because it went into 4 overtimes. The game was an overall good game with talented players.

You had so many great games in the NCAA 2 including 24 points against GSW which you won 78-75 going 6/8 from the field and 12/12 from the ft line. What was your fondest memory there?

That game was fun for me, because it’s on the road and it is a rivalry. Therefore, it will always be a rowdy crowd. In that type of environment and still being great in it was a great experience for me.

How did head coach Robert Moore groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

Coach Robert Moore definitely played a part by watching film with me, showing me other guards from Columbus state that’s currently playing and also having the gyms available for me to get in and to workout in.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Gary Rakeim?

Me and Rakeim Gary never played 1-1. However the battles we had in practice were intense and enjoyable competition we both sharpened each other skills.

Who is the toughest player that you ever battled against on the court that reached the NBA?

In terms of affecting the game I would say Walker Kessler. He was in my region in high school, and it just felt like his presence alone affected everything we were trying to do.

Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Roman Son, Jarrett Adderton, Jehloni James , Kordell Brown. Joshua Guilford

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

My personal NBA mount Rushmore people might not like it. I’m going with Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, and Stephen 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?

Yes, they definitely could have left it alone or just made a better movie.

Thanks Wisdom for the chat

Versatile Will The Thrill Carius(Patrioti Levice) Will Never Forget His Laettner Like buzzer Beater Against The Bakken Bears

Will Carius (205-F-1998, college: W.Illinois) is a 28 year old 205 cm forward from Pleasant Valley, Iowa playing his fourth professional season and first with Patrioti Levice (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). He played the last 2 seasons with IMMOunited Dukes Klosterneuburg (Austria-BSL) averaging 18.3ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 75.7% and (21.5), 7.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 73.8%. He played his rookie season with Nunawading Spectres (Australia-NBL One) averaging 21.2ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 72.2%. He began his basketball career with Pleasant Valley High School and then played 2 seasons at Northern Michigan University (NCAA2) averaging 9.8ppg, 6.3rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.2% and 12.3ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 77.0%. He then played 2 seasons at Monmouth College (NCAA3) averaging 25.5ppg, 11.0rpg, 1.7apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 76.4% and 27.2ppg, 12.0rpg, 1.8apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 87.9%. He then finished at Western Illinois University (NCAA) averaging 14.7ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 76.1% and 14.3ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 75.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Wurzburg.

Thanks Will for talking to germanhoops.comYour playing your third season overseas for Patrioti Levice (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about it?

So far it has been a great experience in pretty much all aspects. First off great teammates that found a way to play at a high level together very quickly. Great coaching staff that has given us the tools and confidence to be successful and a management staff and fan base that has been extremely supportive every step of the way so far.

How have you adjusted to the Slovakian way of life? What have you learned to appreciate most about the culture?

Being in a smaller town I can appreciate the quiet, I went to college at a few universities in similar sized areas and am accustomed to it. It is nice to focus on basketball and make the most of the opportunities given. The fan base is very devout as well and has been so supportive and shown us a lot of love thus far and you can tell they have been very passionate about their home team for years.

Patrioti Levice are the top team in the Slovakian league. The team is looking forward to winning it´s 5th league title in a row. How huge is the winning culture within the organization?

It is something I have never been a part of in my career. Such high expectations from the jump but that’s the reason you play the game. You want to play in those big games, games that mean something, so I am excited for the opportunity to play in those situations because they don’t come about often.

How much fun is it playing on a team that is winning? What exactly is your role?

Winning makes a lot of things easier but keeping that momentum going is a challenge all on its own. So far I can’t question anyone’s effort on our team. Everyone comes to practice and games with the same goals and intensity and that makes it such a fun group to be a part of. Everyone is locked in on the same goals. My role from the beginning has been to just make plays in all facets of the game and be versatile. Being able to guard multiple positions defensively, take advantage of mismatches in the post offensively, as well as being able to stretch the floor from 3 when possible. Really just taking advantage of any opportunity I might see on the floor on either end and it has been a very fun freeing way to play.

Your playing a very strong season in both the SBL and BCL. What has been your secret to adjusting so quickly to leagues other than in Austria?

I think I have a lot of experience changing levels from AAU and college. AAU in high school you go from playing local teams to playing top recruits from all over the country. Same with moving up from D3 to D1, certain things you can get away with at a lower level you might not be able to with bigger, faster, more athletic players on the court. That is part of the challenge and I enjoy finding new ways to score and be effective, making an impact no matter what level of competition.

You had an incredible 33 point game and hit the buzzer beater against Bakken for the 100-98 OT win. What memories do you have of the last play.? Was it designed for you?

The most vivid memory I have of that game is just seeing the ball go in. It was such a cool moment and probably the best moment of my career so far. People can say it was a lucky shot but if you see some of the workouts I do over the summer, tough shots are something we work on. I think I was maybe the second or third option on the play, we ran a similar play to get Ricky his 3 to send us to overtime and they did a good job of taking that option away the second time around.

Many have compared that shot to the legendary shot by Christian Laettner shot in 1993 that helped Duke get back to the Final 4. Did you know the shot was going in as it left your hands?

I can’t say it felt perfect out of the hand. They defended it so well I didn’t get a good look at the rim until the ball was almost there. I was having an awful game from 3 that day as well but that’s the beauty of there only being 1 second left there was no time to worry about the shot, just trust your muscle memory.

Let´s talk some more about your game. You’re a 205 cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I have a hard time finding a perfect comparison of an NBA player with a similar game. I like to watch all positions and take bits and pieces from various players’ games. I think that’s where my pride in versatility on the floor comes into play.

You’re a player that offensively fills the stat sheet very well. What would you classify as your biggest offensive strengths?

I would say finding a way to be a mismatch. Typically if I’m being guarded by a larger player I can set faster screens or ghosts and take advantage of speed. If I’m guarded by a smaller player I can go into the post and make plays as well. I’m still learning ways to be more efficient with these mismatches but regardless of the defense I have confidence that I have the skills to be effective in those situations.

You have always been a solid shooter but never reached the 40% level in college and now. What are you main goals as a shooter as you continue to move up the basketball ladder?

I am definitely still working to continue improving my shooting efficiency. I’m not afraid of tough shots when the team needs them late in shot clocks and that can make a difference in percentages but that consistency piece when I do get open looks I need to take advantage of those as much as possible. I am always working to improve that aspect because it is probably one of the most important to have moving up levels of competition.

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

I would say I am pretty versatile because I have the strength to guard many bigs but can keep guards in front effectively as well. There is room for improvement laterally when guarding very quick guards but I have come a long way defensively. I think if you went back and told any of my high school teammates that I became a solid defender at the professional level and they would probably laugh at you. That being said, it has become something I have actively tried to improve since my jump to division 1 in college and I am really proud of how far I’ve come in that aspect and continue to work towards becoming a reliable defender that a coach can trust to guard anyone on the floor.

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

Efficiency on offense is one of the most important, coming from a role in Austria where I was required to take a lot more shots for us to be successful. I had the luxury of using extra looks to get hot in a game. Now with our current team that role has shifted, I still have a solid offensive role but have to be more selective throughout the course of the game just because we have so many offensive weapons.

You played the last 2 seasons with IMMOunited Dukes Klosterneuburg (Austria-BSL) averaging 18.3ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 75.7%
and (21.5), 7.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 73.8%. You won a cup last season. How did your game grow in Austria?

I think it was a great place to continue building confidence in my game. On the offensive end and the defensive end. We had a great coach who allowed us to play free and that gave me room to see what parts of my game can be the most effective at the professional level with his support and confidence behind that. Winning that cup was my first professional trophy I have been able to lift and really gave a taste of what it takes to win something at the professional level.

You played your rookie season with Nunawading Spectres (Australia-NBL One) avergaing 21.2ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 72.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

The biggest wake up call was probably my first day pulling up google maps and saying, ‘wow I am really on the other side of the world from everyone I know.’ It was definitely an adjustment but I loved my time in Australia, made some great relationships and could not think of a better start to my professional career.

You played 2 seasons at Northern Michigan University (NCAA2) averaging 9.8ppg, 6.3rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.2% and 12.3ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 77.0%. How vital were these 2 years in your basketball development playing for Bill Sall? How did your game grow there?

It was a real rough start due to injuries and getting adjusted to living on my own for the first time. It was an 8 hour drive away from home (a trip that seems short now), navigating college classes and the demands of college hoops was a lot at first. I slowly got into a groove, found out what worked for me, and by the end of my second year there I had grown a lot as a person and found better ways to balance life, school and high level hoops.

You then played 2 seasons at Monmouth College (NCAA3) averaging 27.2ppg, 12.0rpg, 1.8apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 87.9% and 25.5ppg, 11.0rpg, 1.7apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 76.4%. These were 2 very enriching years on and off the court. Was this the best basketball decision in your life?

I would say it was a great decision. I look back on that time being closer to family even more fondly now that I am away for 9-10 months a year. I accomplished some great things and really found a new love for basketball during that time. It was also when I started seriously thinking about playing basketball professionally. I always had the dream to go pro but after those two seasons it actually looked like a possibility.

How fortunate do you feel were you to be coached by Todd Skrivseth? How did he help bring your game to another level at Monmouth?

He was a coach that saw my talents and the talents of those on our team and found a system that would work for us specifically instead of trying to force us into a mold. It was such a fun way to play and I respect him a lot for it. He has been a very successful coach at Monmouth and it is not by accident.

You then finished at Western Illinois University (NCAA) averaging 14.7ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 76.1% and 14.3ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 75.2%. You needed absolute no adjustment time. What kind of a player did you become at Western Illinois?

I found out early I would have to be a big piece of the team for us to be successful. We were a complete COVID year rebuild and only had a few guys with any D1 experience. About a month into practice one of our coaches told me, ‘you need to have the same offensive mindset you had at Monmouth for us to win any games this year.’ From then on it was like all second guessing in my mind was gone and I just hooped. I had to adjust my game a bit and get used to the size and speed of the level but I used that same confidence in my ability that I built at Monmouth to find ways to be effective.

How did head coach Rob Jeter give you that last vital added push and help groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

Coach Jeter was a guy who played professionally himself and he also had a D3 background so I think we could relate to each other’s situations a little. He has also coached plenty of players that have gone on to play pro so just being around someone with that experience in coaching players went a long way. He also helped me a ton with my mindset defensively and growing that part of my game.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Luka Barisic?

If it was in the post Luka had this left handed hook from the baseline that was practically unstoppable from 15 feet in but if we were out on the perimeter in space I’d say I would have the advantage there. I would love to play against him again some day just to see how far we’ve both come!

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

Keegan Murray was probably the toughest matchup. I have guarded a ton of players in all positions and it is rare where I feel out matched defensively but the way he was scoring what I felt were tough forced shots over my contesting hand consistently was really impressive. It is really cool to see how well he has played in the NBA first off being an Iowa guy and second off because it makes me feel a bit better seeing him do the same thing he did to me to other NBA level guys.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Top 5 is so tough, I’ve had so many teammates that are really important to not only my career but to me personally as great friends. I will have to go strictly off the dream team on the court. At the point I have to put my current teammate Ricky McGill, he’s too tough. At 2 Michael Weathers, one of the craziest athletes I’ve seen. At the 3 Trent Massner I wish I had his stepback. At 4 Isaiah Roby probably has the best resume out of anyone I’ve played with. Finally he’s not even a 5 man but he’ll kill me if he’s not on my list and I’ll never hear the end of it, Vali Bauer just because he’s him.

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

1. Steph Curry 2. Nick Young 3. Vince Carter 4. Michael Jordan 5. Dwight Howard

Who is your GOAT?

As a Bulls fan it has to be Michael Jordan

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

Yes I saw it, I love the og movie and the new one is far from perfect but getting more Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall in those roles was still so much fun to see.

Thanks Will for the chat.

2 Way Player Malik Miller(Donar Groningen) Is Like A Football Safety With High Anticipation Skills And Quick Feet With Good Physicality

Malik Miller is a 26 year old 192cm guard from Washhington DC playing his second professional season and first with Donar Groningen(Holland-DBL). He played his rookie season with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 12.0ppg, 7.1rpg, 3.4apg, SPG-4(2.4), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 69.0%. He began his basketball career at Friendship Tech Prep Academy. He then played at Morgan State University(NCAA) from 2018-2023 playing a total of 118 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against German team MBC.

Thanks Malik for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with Donar Groningen (Holland-DBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the experience? 

It’s been really good. I love the city and culture. It’s really been fun to play here. My best experience has been the home games, the crowd is amazing!! They really are into the game as much as the players. 

Last season as a rookie you played in Denmark. What are the biggest differences between Denmark and Holland on and off the court? 

The biggest difference is the physicality on the court. The refs let you play a little more. And off the court it’s pretty much similar, the city just has more people and it’s more things to do. 

The club has won quite a few titles in the last 12 years, but last won a cup in 2022. How big is the hunger in the organization to win again? 

It’s extremely important, I have great teammates and coaches, none of us have egos and we all have one goal which is to win. We understand the history of this club and we want to help get back to where it once was. We have the team to do it! 

What has it been like playing for head coach Jason Dourisseau. I saw this guy play in Germany back in the day. He won 9 titles in Holland. As a guard how has he helped your game move forward this season? 

It’s been great, the fact that he is American makes it way better because we can relate to a lot of things. But the way he coaches and how he holds us accountable which is really huge for our morale. He’s been helping my game a lot which has been one of the biggest takeaways I have honestly, he always sends film on the moves he teaches me so I can study it and see how effective it is to use it. 

You’re a player that can do everything at both ends. What exactly is your  role on the team? 

My role is to impact the game on every level so that I can help my team get the win. 

Let´s talk more about your game. You’re a 192cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? 

I would compare it to Jrue Holiday who is a really great defender, who can do a little bit of everything. 

You’re an incredible versatile player. Where was your versatility born as a player? 

I think it was born when I was around 8/9 years old and I played with all the older kids at the park. In order for me to get picked up I had to do whatever it took to impact my team winning and not be a liability. 

What stands out at first is your high rebound totals for a guard. You averaged 8,0rpg in your last 3 years at Morgan State and 7,0rpg as a rookie. What is the secret to your good rebounding and what are your goals with rebounding in the next seasons as you move up the basketball ladder? 

I wouldn’t say I have a secret, but I just have a knack for the ball. I’m also always in the right spot a lot of the time as well. My goal is to continue to keep being effective with being a rebounding guard especially since I know a lot of guards aren’t rebounding at this rate. 

Your also a guy that does it at both ends of the court. Would you classify yourself as a 2-way player now? 

Yes I would definitely consider myself that. I take pride in being that. 

How would you describe your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? 

I would describe it as being as being a safety on the football field, regarding to the fact that I have high anticipation skills and quick feet with good physicality. I am a good one-on-one defender and a very good off ball defender as well. However I would like to become a defender that knows how to use my physicality without fouling. 

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

I’ve been really focusing on improving my 3pt shot and ball handling. Also becoming a better pick n roll player.  

You played your rookie season with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 12.0ppg, 7.1rpg, 3.4apg, SPG-4(2.4), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 69.0%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home? 

My wake up call was me not being able to see my daughter. That was and still is the toughest thing for me. 

You lost a tough final series against Bakken, but won a exciting series against Randers where the last 2 games weren´t decided by more than 4 points. What will you always remember from that series? 

I’ll always remember how one of their players posted something on instagram about us and we took that as the utmost disrespect. So we stuck together game by game, we never got too high or too low because we knew they had some good players but we also knew how good our team was. 
 

You played at Morgan State(NCAA) from 2018-2023. How valuable was playing that fifth season? How did your game grow that one last step there? 

It was extremely important that was my breakout season where I gained the most confidence from my game. It made me grow a lot. I had to step up big time for us. I worked on my weaknesses day in and day out and it showed. 

You had many incredible games in the NCAA like having a buzzer beater against Temple, having a triple double against PS Wilkes Barre, almost having a triple double against PS Gtr Allegh and having a 32/12 game against SC State. What was your fondest moment there on the court? 

Those were some great moments, however my best moment was when I scored my 1000th career point at home. 

How did head coach Kevin Broadus groom and prepare you best for a professional career? 

He always held me accountable and pushed me to be better. Coach Chretch really prepared me though, he did so many little things for that took my game to another level my senior year. He challenged me off the court as well and he always made me be  

Who won a 1-1 in practice, you or Isaiah Burke? 

Unfortunately we never really played with just us 2, we would do king of the court with a couple other teammates. 

Your biggest influence is Lebron James and you have a engineering degree. How would you like to give back to the community one day? 

I would love to do a lot for my community, I would like to host annual Christmas giveaways, thanksgiving food drives, back to school events, and free basketball camps. I pray I’m able to do those things in the future! 

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

I’m not sure if he made the NBA or not  but he was really tough, I’ll say Phil Booth from Villanova. 

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? 

This a tough one I had a lot of great teammates but I have to go with the teammates I grew up with so I’m going with Derrick Love, Taron Oliver, Isaiah Burkes, Lagio Grantsaan, and De’Torrian Ware 

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? 

This is my Mount Rushmore in no specific order but Steph Curry, LeBron James, Michael Jordan, and Shaq 

Who is your GOAT? 

LeBron James 

Thanks Malik for the chat.