Vinnie Shahid (180-PG-1998, college: NDSU) is a 26 year old 180cm point guard from Minnetonka, Minnesota playing his fifth pro season and first with German Pro A team Hakro Merlins Crailsheim currently averaging 16,7ppg, 2,0rpg and 3,7apg. Last season he played with Openjobmetis Varese (Italy-Serie A) averaging 14.8ppg, 1.9rpg, 3.1apg, 2FGP: 57.1%, 3FGP: 40.5%, FT: 94.3%;in the Fiba Europe Cup and in the Italian Serie A averaged 7.0ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 40.0%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 80.0%, in Jan.’24 moved to Ferraroni Juvi Cremona (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 15.9ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 81.7%. In 2022-2023, he played with Thor Thorlakshofn (Iceland-Subway League) playing 27 games and leading the league in scoring and assists averaging 26.4ppg, 4.3rpg,8.7apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 88.2%. Two seasons ago he played with Entente Cergy Osny Pontoise BB (France-NM1) leading the league in scoring averaging 21.0ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 85.5%. He played his rookie season with AB Contern (Luxembourg-Total League) averaging 22.6ppg, 4.9rpg, 4.9apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT: 79.2%. He began his basketball career at Hopkins high school and then played 2 years at Western Nebraska Community College (JUCO) averaging 15.0ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.9apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 40.7%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 81.0% and in his second season averaged 18.4ppg, 3.1rpg, 4.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 47.6%, FT: 86.8%. He then played 2 years at North Dakota State University (NCAA) averaging 13.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 84.9% and in his senior year averaged 1.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 88.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the 76-74 win over Nurnberg where he scored 16 points and made the buzzer beater.
Thanks Vinnie for talking to germanhoops.com Congrats on the massive 76-74 win on the road against Nurnberg. Is this win double special because you also won it with a buzzer beater?
.It’s tough to win at this time of the year so I think any win is super special at this time of the year
How vital was this win? It was the fourth win in a row. It seems like the Merlins are going into the post season with some momentum? Any win late in the season is big and we’ve been trying to just take it game by game and focus on the one ahead of us
The Merlins got the big lead of 15-4 in the first quarter getting big production inside from Daniel Keppeler and Gabriel De Olveira. How much of a focus was it establishing yourself in the paint area early? Super important to try to dominate early, those guys especially Gabi and Kep did a good job of being aggressive early.
How vital was the rapid 5 points by American Brock Gardner to start the second quarter? What do you appreciate most about his game? Brock is a super special and talented player, the type of guy that can score in bunches and in many different ways,Which is why I think he super dangerous. He has been huge for us since joining our team.
The Merlins had the 13 point lead at the break. How satisfied were you with the Merlins defense. I think you allowed a few unnecessary buckets at the end, but overall what was working best on the defensive end?
I thought we played ok on defense. Could’ve controlled a few offensive rebound surges there in the 3rd and 4th quarter but, I think just being solid is what works for us defensively.
Nurnberg never gave up and only trailed 59-51 after 3 quarters. German Vincent Friederici gave Nurnberg a spark in the comeback. Did the Merlins lose some intensity on the defensive end? I think we could’ve had better energy but I think their players made big plays
In the fourth quarter the game was really exciting as Nurnberg got the lead. How much did this game show that anybody can play with anyone in the Pro A? After playing almost a whole season in Pro A I think everyone knows anyone can beat anyone. Pro A is full of talented guys.
German Julius Wolf tied the game at 74-74 with 14 seconds to play and the Merlins called time out. Was the play designed primarily for you or were there other options going into the last play?
I mean the play was to just make a play and my coach and teammates trusted me with the ball giving me confidence so I was able to make a tough shot there at the end.
You won the game with a sweet lay up at the buzzer. Talk about that last play? How confident were you that you were going to nail the last shot? My teammates and coaches loaded me with trust and confidence, from there i just put my trust in the work I put in daily.
How many buzzer beaters have you had in your career and where does this one rank? Not sure how many I have had but this one means a little more because I couldn’t of did it without this group of guys
Does your buzzer beater make amends a bit for your poor shooting night of 3/16? Was this just one of those nights where nothing really wanted to fall? That´s the name of the game can’t make shots every night just part of the game
The Merlins have one more game at home against Munster. How big will the revenge factor be after losing there the first time? This game is a big game for many reasons. We are looking forward to it.
What will be key to getting the win? You allowed 101 points as a team the first time. The key will be to play our pace and style of basketball for 40 minutes
Everybody talks about Trier, Jena and Giessen to win the Pro A, but the Merlins could dance past everyone. How big is the focus is it now for this organization to get back to the BBL? We said it at the beginning of the year that that was our goal and that hasn’t changed at any point in the season.
Your averaging 16/2/3 and shooting 37% from outside in 24 minutes. How content have you been with your season? We have team goals so I haven’t been too focused on personal agendas
You would lead the league in scoring if you averaged 10 minutes more. You have been very efficient which isn´t easy with this loaded roster. How challenging has it been being efficient?
.It hasn´t been challenging at all as my teammates trusted me and give me confidence and find me when I’m open. All credit to those guys and my coaches
You had some low scoring games in December but overall been very consistent. How have you grown as a player at the pro A level?
Ive grown up as a basketball player and leader. I think being under coach Mccray he has really helped me learn how to read the game as a point guard and not just a scorer
What is your goal as a player in the playoffs? Do you feel like you can heighten your game one more notch? Our goal in the playoffs is to win the championship
Who do you see reaching the NBA final and who will win it? Hard to say who will make it and who will win everyone has a chance
Is Nikola Jokic the unanimous choice as NBA MVP or will Shai Gillgeous-Alexander get it? Shai G.
Eddie Colbert III (198-F, college: Charleston) is a 198cm forward from Ohio playing his rookie season with T71 Dudelange (Luxembourg-LBBL) averaging 28,8ppg, 8,5rpg,1,7apg and 1,3spg.He began his basketball career with Whitmer High School and then played at the University of Charleston (NCAA”) from 2019-2024. He played a total of 140 games and as a senior averaged 17.8ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 67.0%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 85.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the final series against Etzella.
Thanks Eddie for talking to germanhoops.com Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 198cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? I would say I am kind of similar to Brandon Miller.
You were always a scorer bit how refreshing is it averaging 28,0ppg? Is it sometimes hard to believe or have you gotten used to it? It is nice, my coach gives me the green light, he knows my potential and helped me make a jump in my development as a player.
You can fill up the stat sheet well. What is your biggest strength on the court?
I can shoot the ball really well and that opens up my game for midrange shots and to do all the way to the basket. I’m also a good rebounder.
After being close to 40% from outside in the NCAA 2, you reached the 40% mark. How has your three grown as a rookie? I have definitely been in the gym more this year and always working on the shots I am going to shoot in game.
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 feel like over this season I have grown as a defender. Thanks to him for getting on me about it and it helped me. I started seeing the passing lanes better, been getting to my rotations faster and being a better on ball defender.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can keep improving your game? I always work on every part of my game, but I been more keyed in on my ball handing to create more for myself off the dribble.
You played at the University of Charleston (NCAA2) from 2019-2024. Your game grew in the last years and you showed that you were consistent. What kind of a player were you in 2019 and what kind in 2024 when you left? In 2019, my freshman year I was just trying to come in and not make any mistakes and just play my role which was make open shots, rebound, and play defense. In my last year, I was the number 1 option and had to be a leader. I grew as a player overtime.
You won the MEC title and reached the Sweet 16 as a senior. You had huge games against WVSU and California PA. What memories do you have of the title and Sweet 16 run? It was great, I haven’t experienced something like that since my high school days, but it felt even better since it was my last year. it was great leading my team all the way to the sweet sixteen even though it was a bitter ending.
You had so many great games in the NCAA2. What was your fondest moment on the floor? Obviously winning the conference championship. That’s the only one that’s always going to stand out and it makes you hungry to win more. It is a feeling that you always want to have.
How did head coach Dwaine Osborne groom and prepare you best for a professional career? He would always make sure that I stayed efficient and productive on the court. He would always put me in positions to develop.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA or anywhere on a court that reached the NBA? Vincent Williams, he plays for the Memphis Grizzles now my junior year of high school. He was definitely the best player I played against.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time.
Keith Williams
Lamont McManus
Devon Robinson
DeAirius Barker
Tae Wilson
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Michael Jordan, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, Kobe Bryant
Who is your GOAT? KD, for sure. Ever since I could function basketball, I been a KD fan.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? No, I have not watched that yet.
Eddie Colbert III (198-F, college: Charleston) is a 198cm forward from Ohio playing his rookie season with T71 Dudelange (Luxembourg-LBBL) averaging 28,8ppg, 8,5rpg,1,7apg and 1,3spg.He began his basketball career with Whitmer High School and then played at the University of Charleston (NCAA’) from 2019-2024. He played a total of 140 games and as a senior averaged 17.8ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 67.0%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 85.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the final series against Etzella.
Your playing your first season with T71 Dudelange (Luxembourg-LBBL). You just led your team to the final. How big was the win coming back from 1-0 down? It was very big; our backs were against the wall, and we knew we were the better team. We just needed to play with confidence and carefree. We couldn’t shutdown now, we didn’t come this far just to come this far. We came out and wanted it more the last 2 games.
You had 2 big games in the first 2 games, but stepped it up in game 3. Did you just feel the need to decide the series with your play? Absolutely, if we were going to win game 3 on the road in a crazy fun atmosphere I had to show up and lead my team to victory. They knew I could do this all year and had amazing confidence in me. I put in work over the summer and even more during my time here, since day 1 to now I can feel I am a better player. The work you put in is what you get out of the game.
You scored 41 and 40 points already this season and in game 3 43 points. Was that the most points that you have ever scored in your career? Yes, for sure, I’ve been stuck in the 30s since high school and it was nice to break my career high in my first pro game.
How quickly did you know into the game that you would have another great scoring game? It’s just confidence for me, I know I am a good scorer and I work on it every day so it’s just a confidence thing for me.
You shot the ball very well. Were you happy with your game or could you have been even more aggressive?
Yeah, I am happy, but you always know after what you could’ve did better and for me it was me turning the ball over multiple times towards the end of the game.
You had 4 steals but 6 turnovers. Did the 6 turnovers lessen the wroth of your achievement a bit? For sure I wish I could get all 6 opportunities back because that’s just less shot attempt and could’ve cost us the game.
Even after a great scoring game like that, do you go back and study the 6 turnovers extra on film?
Of course, I watch film many times a week to prepare for upcoming games and to watch myself and the team to see what we could’ve done better and how to fix it.
Did you have to get donuts after your performance or will you do that after you earn the chip? We will see after this series is over.
You are playing your rookie season in Luxemburg. What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the experience? It has been an amazing experience it is a peaceful and delightful country. I’ve had some great food how here. The people are very kind and nice. I have enjoyed all of it, it was a big blessing to come to this exciting place.
How cool is it living in a small country where you can quickly be in other countries like France and Germany to check out other basketball leagues. Did you explore other countries due to the proxcimity?
No, I have not because of what I have going on over here but that is one thing I wish I could have done. It would have been nice to visit those other counties since they are very close.
What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
The time change was definitely the biggest wake up call. For me it is 6 hours but then I adjusted over time after a few months. It wasn’t easy at first, but you have to get your sleep as a pro athlete/
What has it been like being teammates with Denell Stephens? Has he been like a mentor for you? He’s been great, he isn’t the most vocal, but he leads by his play. You see him playing with maximum effort, he makes you want to raise your level up to match his. I do appreciate him, he definitely showed me how to play with more energy.
T71 made it into the final to battle top team Etzella. T71 was in third place when the regular season ended. Did the team pick up it’s game a notch more in the first 2 rounds of the playoffs.
Yes, we are still coming together as a team, and everybody had to pick up their play including me due to the loss of our Point Guard Brandon.
You lost both games to Etzella in the regular season and you had huge games. What will be key to beating them and getting the dub?
We have to lock in on the defensive side and rebound better. The team that does that the whole series will win and I got a lot of confidence in my team.
Sebastian Brach (190-PG-2002) is a 22 year old 190cm point guard that is playing his second season with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. He began his career in the Giessen 46ers organization playing NBBL and Pro B. He had bis break out year in the pro B with the Ebbecke White Wings Hanau averaging 11.4ppg, 5.7rpg, 4.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 79.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the playoff series against the Dragons Rhondorf.
Thanks Sebastian for talking to germanhoops.com Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description? I think a good comparison would be Elle Okobo, a player that plays the 1-2, has a good outside shot and mid range game.
You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet at ease. What do you believe is your biggest strength on the court? You are a guy that always try to bring the team what it needs? Yes I always try to give the team what it exactly needs at that moment. If it means getting a defensive stop or three pointer. I think that I have improved my defense this season and my three is falling better than last season.
You have made a big jump in your game averaging 6 minutes and 4 points more. Have you gotten more trust from the coaching staff? I don´t think that it has been trust, but moreover just playing my game and not thinking so much on the court. The offensive systems are a bit different this season and my play has helped me gain more trust.
Your also shooting above 40% for the first time in your career? What has changed in your shooting that has given you success?
I worked a lot last summer on my shot with my old coach. My shot feels better this season which helped increase my self-confidence that helped me make more shots.
What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?
I want to become a more aggressive full court defender making more pressure. I have to improve my footwork. I think that I improved in my half-court defense and getting around screens.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? I always want to work on my shot as well as developing a spin move.
Last season you were teammates with Trey Mcbride and Quadre Lollis. Did they tell any cool stories about their well known brother and father?
Quadre didn´t talk so much about his dad while Trey talked a bit more about his brother.
You had your break out season in 22-23 with the Ebbecke White Wings Hanau (ProB) averaging 11.4ppg, 5.7rpg, 4.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 79.6%. How vital was that season playing for Marti Zamora-Mas for the development of your game?
That season was so important for my development as a player. Coach Marti helped me so much and gave me so much self-confidence. I had a good role on the team. I was able to establish myself in the Pro B. It opened a lot of doors for me. That season was good, fun and helpful.
What was it like being teammates with Bruno Albrecht? How important was he for your game? You were efficient despite him having the ball in his hands so often. I didn´t take as many shots there, but having Bruno as that scorer helped my assists rate. His scoring helped my game a lot.
You began your career in Giessen. What do you remember from those young years? You had a very good season in the NBBL averaging 17.3ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.0apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 73.7% in a tough division with Munich, IBAM and Ludwigsburg.
I was the goto guy and also had a lot of trust from the coach. My drive was good and my three point shot as well. This was another season where my self-confidence was present.
What was it like playing with a legend like Joe Lischka? Your nicest memory with him? He was always consistent on the court. He carried the team and you could always rely on him.
Tim Koepple was also your teammate. He is a high energy player that is always in attack mode. Did that trickle off on you or did that trickle down from you on him? Tim was a good guy and I also learned a lot from him. His calmness and focus on the three helped me a lot.
You had many fine games in the Pro B with Giessen. What was your fondest moment on the court there?
I scored 29 against Sandersdorf and 30 points against Iserlohn, but my favorite games was beating the RheinStars twice in a season as well as winning at Koblenz.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA? I played against Franz Wagner in the U-12 and also played against Len Schoormann and Ariel Hukporti.
Please name your personal NBA, Euro and German Mount Rushmore? Lebron, Jordan, Kobe, Steph Curry Mike James, Nick Calathes, Vassilis Spanoulis, Aleksandar Vesenkov
Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder, Franz Wagner, Detlev Schrempf
Sebastian Brach (190-PG-2002) is a 22 year old 190cm point guard that is playing his second season with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. He began his career in the Giessen 46ers organization playing NBBL and Pro B. He had bis break out year in the pro B with the Ebbecke White Wings Hanau averaging 11.4ppg, 5.7rpg, 4.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 79.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the playoff series against the Dragons Rhondorf.
Thanks Sebastian for taking some time to talk to germanhoops.com Congrats on the great Leverkusen season. Will anything but a Pro B title be a disappointment? I think saying that seems difficult, but with how our season has gone, I believe we would be disappointed if we don´t capture the title.
How big is the hunger to win the title after the tough playoff loss to BG Berlin last season? It is extremely big for the team and especially for me. I was hurt and never played against Berlin. I have never experienced a playoffs before. I believe we will have the right mindset.
If some one had told you before the first game of the season that Leverkusen would only lost 1 game what would you have thought? I would of believed it right away if someone had said that.
The roster is a great one, but I wouldn´t have thought the team would have such a good record with the players that you have? Have you surprised some of how the season went? I think so, but nevertheless, we have a good structure and have a very good mix of players. I think that we had some degree of luck this season, but the experience of Donte Nicholas and Dennis Heinzmann have put us over the top.
The team already defended well last season allowing 72 points per game, but are even better this season allowing 66 points? How is the defense better this season?
I don´t think that we have done anything different on the defensive end in comparison to last season. Key has been having Heinzmann who has that big body in the paint and helping on pick and roll. His long arms really help. I think that also adding Ziring and Kahl have added a new dimension as they are very aggressive defenders.
What will be key to getting title? Worrying more about your own game than what the opponent is doing and just playing your game? We just have to play our game and make adaptations here and there with our defense. I think that if we can be consistent and play well, then it will be difficult to beat us. We have shown that even when shots don´t fall, we can win with our defense.
Last season the team had 1 star with Trey Mcbride. This season it has more guys scoring in double figures, but no real star?
I think that is right. We have many very talented guys and players with Pro A experience. Every player is capable of stepping up and helping the team.
What has it been like playing for 2 legends like Mike Koch and Hansi Gnad? What does each guy give to the players that helps them perform at the highest level? They are both so experienced and that really shows in individual training. You notice quickly that they have seen a lot in their careers. We don´t see them as legends, but just as normal guys and coaches. They are always giving us tips and give key advice in certain situations.
How vital is Donte Nicholas. How many games do you estimate have you won just through his versatility? That is hard to say, but he has shown in so many games. How calm he remains and how he keeps us together and leads the team. We didn´t have him last season and it shows this season that we were missing him last season. He helped us win games many times.
Where would the defense be without the staples Dennis Heinzman and CJ Oldham? CJ hasn´t done so much on the offensive end, but on the defensive end, he is on every ball, getting his hands everywhere or making key fouls. He just does so many things that helps us be effective as a team on defense. Dennis is a dominant offensive player and on defense makes it very hard for the opponent´s guard to get to the rim.
What have you appreciated most about Viktor Ziring on the court?
I love his will to win. He always gives 110%. He can do it all on defense and has proven that he is a stable shooter. If we are having a down phase, he comes in and gives the team instant energy.
How valuable has the experience of Luca Kahl been and what do you appreciate most about his game? Luca is a leader. He is very experienced and you can see in his eyes that he always has the right mindset. He is a great defender that always defends the other team´s best guard.
Maxwell Dongmo (196-PF-2003) is a 21 year old 196cm guard played his second season with TSV Oberhaching Tropics Deisenhofen (ProB) averaging 11,6ppg, 6.9rpg, 1,1apg, and 1,3bpg. Last season with TSV Oberhaching Tropics Deisenhofen (ProB), he averaged 10.9ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 52.6%. He began his basketball career with FC Bayern Munich where he played for their youth teams and farm team FC Bayern Munich 2 (Pro B). He spoke to germanhoops.com in Feb 2025 about basketball.
Thanks Maxwell for talking to germanhoops.com. A new adventure in Asia is approaching. What will you do there and will you be able to play basketball? I could practice with a few teams, but to play games will be tough with getting a license in the short time of 4 months when I will be there. My first priority is my studies computer science. I will be in Peking. I might join the university team.
Your now in your second season with the TSV Oberhaching Tropics Deisenhofen (ProB). What have you enjoyed most about the experience?
The main reason I came to the Tropics was that I was able to combine my studies and play basketball. That was a big benefit especially since I can play at a high level still.
Your only 21, but played with the FC Bayern Munich youth. Are the Tropics just a stopover to get to higher leagues?
That is a good question. I think about that a lot. On one hand I can see myself giving gas for the pro career, but on the other hand I can see myself concentrating on my masters and focusing on my job career. At the moment I´m leaning towards concentrating on computer science.
The team have a very special team chemistry. How quickly did you notice upon arriving in 2023 that this is a very special team?
It is all so family like which I like. There is a big difference between the young and older guys. You learn a lot form the older guys. They are all so cool and have so much experience. They are very open and fun to be around off the court.
The last weeks haven´t been easy as there were many sicknesses, but still the team stayed together and won games. What is this team´s biggest strength?
I think that the biggest thing is the experience. We have learned to win tough games despite having adversary. Guys like Know, Koegler and Zeis have a lot of experience. We know how to be successful with short rotations, because we are used to it. We always prepare like that. We are never surprised if we may get down fast, but just stay competitive the whole time. We always believe that we will have a chance even with a 6-7 man rotation.
It is a tight fight for the playoffs as from 5-11, only one win is the difference. The goal is the playoffs, but does this team have title mentality?
We want to win each game. Even when teams underestimate us, we show that we can stick with anyone. We know that winning the title will be difficult, but even with a title moving up will be hard because of all the red tape. We want to reach the playoffs and then get as far as possible.
Let´s talk a little about your teammates. How special is Omari Knox? Is he like a mentor for you? He is 38 and still playing at a high level. Yes he is, but moreover is an inspiration for me. The great thing about Omari is despite playing at a high level, he does it at both ends. He is a great offensive player, but will still play good defense and keep his guy in front of him. Age has nothing to do with how good he still is.
He has said for years each season is his last. Do you think he will retire after this season? I´m not sure. Everybody already thought last season that he would retire. I would never say no.
What is it like playing with Janosch Kogler? Is he the ultimate teammate?
Whenever there are tough times on the court, he always brings us up. He is the first guy to motivate you. He always fights to the end. He is a great offensive player. He also has a knack of being able to get points in tough situations.
Fynn Fischer is a player that played in the BBL and Pro B, but has accepted having a Pro B career now. How special is he as a teammate for you?
It is so easy to play with him. Last season, he was at times our best shooter. He spreads the floor so well, but can also be a presence inside. It is a real pleasure to paly with him.
Another real experienced player is Peter Zeis. He is a school teacher. What has he taught you about life? He taught me that you need to enjoy life and not always take everything so serious.
How important has head coach Mario Matic been for your career in Oberaching. How has your game grown since leaving Munich? Mario helped me gain a lot of self-confidence when I arrived. I didn´t have that before. He let me play my game and believed in my game.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm player. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would bets fit the description? Charles Barkley who was an undersized big man.
You’re a great defensive player but have showed your offensive game with the Tropics. What is your biggest strength on the court? My aggressiveness on offense and defense. I´m a good offensive rebounder and a defensive presence.
Your three pointer is still a work in progress. Talk a little about how you go about most to reaching the next level as a shooter?
I think that the more repetitions that you take the more self confidence that you get. I also think that you always have to put up shots at a consistent basis and never hesitate but just shoot.
I have heard the compliment that you’re the best defender in the Pro B. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I feel that at the moment I have let up a bit. I have to find my old shape and athleticism again. I want my fitness again.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to climb the basketball ladder? I want to become a better on ball defender and be more active.
You began your career with FC Bayern Munich. What kind of an experience was it? How challenging was it?
I arrived when I was 14. I had only played 1-2 years. I was nowhere near the level of the other kids. It was a big challenge competing with talented kids and reaching their level.
The youth teams always has the best young players. How difficult was it to work hard and develop as a player while fighting for the most minutes possible? I just gave my all in practice. The coaches helped me a lot. I always had the opportunity to practice and took the chance to work a lot on my game. I was able to develop and improve and earn minutes.
Andreas Wagner, Moris Hadzija uad Paolo Prestes were massive in your development. Talk a little how each guy helped you most?
Andreas was the reason that I played Pro B. I wasn´t supposed to play Pro B, but then I got the word that I could. I also was lucky that Mo Silah got injured which helped me increase my minutes. I showed that I could play at that level. Andreas gave me a lot of self-confidence that I could play at that level. Moris always told me to stay hungry, win each game, give 100% and never give up. Paulo is responsible for me being the offensive player that I am today. He helped me gain certain moves.
Corona halted the development of young players everywhere. But you had an advantage playing Pro B. That opportunity was huge, but despite not playing as much NBBL as possible, could you have become a different player today? That is a good question. I had more offensive responsibility in the NBBL. Playing Pro B helped my game a lot. I think that if I had also been able to play NBBL during Corona then my game may be at a higher level today.
You reached the 2022 NBBL top 4. How tough was the loss to Vechta? Did that take long to digest?
That was my last NBBL year. It was my last chance to win. I really felt like we had the team to win it all that year. Not reaching the final was very frustrating.
Would Munich have won with a healthy Ivan Kharchenkov?
That is hard to say. We had to have won the title with the roster that we had. Vechta simply played better than we did. They won fair and square.
What was the coolest moment you had off the court? Did you meat any famous basketball or soccer players over the years?
I remember seeing Miro Klose a lot. He would be at the training facility. I also had car pools with the youth soccer players. It was cool to hear about their experiences. I really enjoyed my time with the JBBL team. We won the title. I will always remember the great times with my teammates and going on trips to tournaments in Barcelona and Prague. We would all chill in 1 hotel room- It was great times. We all understood each other so well.
What dreams do you still have with basketball?
My dream is to be a pro player. However I have the dilemma of how far can I go and will it be worth it? Your pro career ends sometime and the question then is what do I do next?
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career that reached the NBA? Vladimir Lucic when I practiced with the BBL team. Just when you thought you defended well, he still was able to score. That was frustrating.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Michael Rataj, Tristan Da Silva, Omari Knox, Erol Ersek, Matej Rudan
Please name your NBA, Euro and German Mount Rushmore?
Jordan, Lebron, Kobe, Russell Westbrook
Jokic, Doncic, Wemby, Tony Parker
Dirk Nowitzki, Detlef Schrempf, Dennis Schroeder, Franz Wagner
Ty Cockfield Jr. (183-PG-1996, college: Arkansas St., agency: BIG) is a 183cm point guard that is playing his 4th professional season and first in Germany with Pro A team EPG Guardians Koblenz. Last season he played with Proton Cable Prizreni (Kosovo-Superliga) averaging 18,2ppg, 4,5rpg, 4,8apg and 1,1spg. In 2021-2022 he played with KB Trepca Mitrovice (Kosovo-Superliga) averaging 15.4ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 25.5%, FT: 81.7%. He played his rookie season with at BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers (Austria-2.Bundesliga) averaging 22.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.6apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 87.0%. He began his basketball career at Johnson high school and then played at Stetson University (NCAA) averaging 7.1ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 83.3%. He then played at Georgia Highlands College (JUCO) averaging 16.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.2apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 78.1%. He then finished at Arkansas State University (NCAA) averaging 15.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 78.2% and in his senior year averaged 22.4ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 82.0%. He spoke togermanhoops.com after the massive 102-85 road win in Bochum.
Congrats Ty on the huge 102-85 win in Bochum. Was this the biggest win of the season?
Yes it was especially due to the circumstances and us fighting to stay in the league. We want to end the season with a positive feeling and want to show everyone that we got better.
How tough were the last months? The team was 1-15 in 2025. Did you ever feel like the team lost faith in being able to win again this season? At some point yes, we also had spurts where we believed we could win games. We have been fighting to win and we knew that we would eventually win again.
The only bad news is that Artland also won. Is that win maybe a blessing in disguise to keep the Guardians on their toes going into the last game? The Artland win makes this game very important for us again instead of it just being another game. We have that win or go home mentality.
With what kind of a mind set did you to Bochum after the tough lost at home against Trier. Was it more than just that we have nothing to lose mentality? We had more than just nothing to lose mentality. We had everything to lose. We wanted to prove to the city of Koblenz and the league that we can win. We showed tonight that if we put the pieces together, we can compete with anyone.
How pumped were the Guardians going in wanting revenge for the loss against Bochum in the first game?
We were very pumped for this game. Guys were talking about how badly we needed to win before the game. We were so fired up and everybody had so much energy. We felt like we were going to win on the way to Bochum. It was a beautiful day where all the pieces came together in Bochum
Did you have any feeling that William Lee would have a big game after he scored his first bucket?
Yes I knew it right away. I thought that he would run off 20 straight shots. I told him at half time to keep going. Bochum was giving our guards so much attention so that he could take over.
He began well against Vechta and then had some bad games and now this. How do you explain his up and down play? I think that with William it is more about who is on the floor with him and who he can feed off. I think in his down games, he was trying to figure out his place in the lineup. We had so many different lineups and that is hard on anybody. We had a great lineup and that put him in great positions for his game. That was the real William tonight. That is what he gets paid for.
How much did the 2 three´s late by Matt Strange hurt? But defensively you couldn´t stop the drive so well?
That hurt us. We tried to take away his three pointer. It is tough guarding him. Sometimes he doesn´t even look at the rim when he shoots the ball. He kept them in the game.
The Guardians had the solid 51-45 lead at the break as you and Lee carried the team. But Bochum´s Tamenang Choh was a menace. What was so difficult in stopping him? I think that he did a good job getting to his spots. He found out how to play against our defense and got to his spots. He was able to utilize his game off our defense. He has a great IQ as well. He took what the defense gave him.
How key was the early 11-2 run in the third quarter with 2 three´s by Lee. Was that the starting stepping stone of getting the comfortable lead?
That run changed the game. I was already celebrating before he took the shots. We know that once he makes shots like that, the game is history.
The Guardians had the comfortable 78-61 advantage after 3 quarters. Alexandre Bouzidi added 5 points. How huge was the overall contribution from so many guys on offense? That was huge. It is so much having many contribute than having all eyes only on one. It was great having 5-6 guys be able to control the pace. Michael Bradley set a career high in assists. Everything came together tonight
How proud are you of the team that you finished strong? So often in this season, the Guardians have let up in the second half to lose? I´m so proud how well we played for 40 minutes. We had so many problems this season being able to put 2 halves together. The way we played in Bochum tonight is how we should of played all season long. But you can´t control the ups and downs during a season.
Leon Friderici scored the 100th points. Is he getting donuts? Leon needs those donuts. He hit a lot of big shots. He showed up big in the first half.
What was the biggest strength of the team? Perhaps keeping Bochum to only 33% from outside as a team? It was our defense. We were flying around all night long and switching up our defense on almost every play. We had a jump defense.
You have a do or die game against Ps Karlsruhe and Artland plays against the door mat Vechta. What will be key to beating PS Karlsruhe?
We just have to be ourselves just like against Bochum. We as players and our coach can´t panic. We just have together as a unit and paly ball.
You had 27 points against Trier and 24 against Bochum. Are you saving your absolute best for PS Karlsruhe? Oh yes. I´m all locked in for the final game. It will be my best.
What is your favorite childhood easter memory and how will you celebrate on Sunday in Germany? My favorite Easter memory was searching for Easter eggs at church with all the children. They were golden eggs with 5$ bills. As a kid, we felt rich when we found them. I think tomorrow I will get together with some of the guys and get food. I might also go to church with Adi Eri.
Who will reach the NBA final and who will win it? I have Boston-Golden State and Golden State winning.
Chrysostom Chukwuma (190-G-1996, agency: Bell Basketball) is a 28 year old 190cm guard playing his first season in Germany with the Skyliners Juniors (Pro B) after starting the season with the Helsinki Seagulls. He began his basketball career with Vantaan Pussihukat. He then played 5 seasons with Jyvaskyla Basketball Academy. He then played 2 seasons with Lapuan Kobrat (Korisliiga) and a season with Pyrinto Tampere (Korisliiga).He spoke to germanhoops about basketball.
Chuku for talking to germanhoops. Before we talk basketball, I have to ask you about your name Chrysostom. That doesn´t seem like a common Finish name. How did you get that name? It is a Greek name that my dad gave me.
Most people call you Chuko, but does anyone call you by your name Chrysostom? A couple of people with my mom and dad.
You came in mid season from the Helsinki Seagulls to Frankfurt. Why did you make that move?
I already wanted to go out of Finland last summer, but had no offers. I didn´t want to go to the fourth divisions in Italy or Spain. Helsinki gave me an option during the season to go any time which I really appreciate. I´m so happy to be with the Skyliners. This is a great place to get better.
The Skyliners are a very young team. What is your role besides being a leader and mentor? Being the guy that handles the offense and makes sure the plays are run right.
Is it fair to say that you’re a scoring point guard even though you can pass the ball very well?
Yes it is.
You are also an allrounder. How big is versatility in your game? I think that my versatility is really big in my game. I can be a 3 and D player, guard the other teams best player, rebound, drive and shoot. The next part of my game that I´m working on is being able to bring the ball. I can do everything, but my role now is as point guard.
With Bruno Albrecht and Felix Hecker are 2 lethal scoring guards. Does that give you more of a chance to be a playmaker? Yes of course. I love those guys. They have so much confidence shooting the ball. Especially Bruno Albrecht is always trigger happy.
How is your relationship with Jamie Edoka? How talented is he? Is he taking on tips from you?
It hasn´t been so much so far, but we have one connection in that we are both half Nigerian. He is a good guy. He is so talented. If he needs advice from me, I will always give it to him. He made some tough three´s against the Tropics. If he can get his jump shot right, then he can be a great player.
Are you able to practice with the easyCredit BBL team? When you see young guys like Trey Calvin and Malik Parsons, do you feel like you can stand your ground against them?
I do practice with the BBL team. It isn´t like I get run over by them. I can compete with them.
You were teammates with Curtis Hollis. He played in Germany in 2019-2020 and then 4 years away from Europe. Shouldn´t a guy like him be playing at even higher levels?
Curtis is super talented. I knew that he had played in Canada. I have no idea why he wasn´t overseas longer. He gives good energy and is a locker room guy. He still keeps in touch with me.
You played 4 seasons in the Korisliiga, the highest league in Finland. Is that league your goal in the future or would you like to explore higher leagues in Europe? I want to go to higher leagues in Europe. I got a little bored in Finland. I want to spread my wings and see the world.
When you played at Lapuan Kobrat (Finland-Korisliiga) you were teammates with Denzel Livingston who was with the Houston Rockets. What memories do you have of him? Denzel was our veteran. He always made sure I got my extra work in. We pushed each other each day in practice.I loved to play with him.
You played 5 seasons with Jyvaskyla Basketball Academy). How vital was Mikko Tupamaki for your early basketball development?
When I was young I couldn´t handle mistakes. I would get down so fast when I missed a shot. He helped me grow mentally. I will always appreciate him for that.
You began your basketball career with Vantaan Pussihukat Juniorit. What memories do you have of these days. How did your game develop there? I had the green light there and could do what I wanted to. I had my own team. Coach always told me that we can go as far as we want with me. It is always good for a very young player to have that opportunity to be able to carry a team.
How respected is Gordon Herbert in Finland? Have you ever met him? I never met him. He is very respected in Finland.
Your 28 years old. What dreams do you still have as a player? I want to reach the highest level and use my full potential. This year with Frankfurt is very important for me to be able to make the next step.
The toughest player that you faced that reached the Euroleague was Petti Koponen. What do you remember from that battle? He was already older and had problems with his hip. He couldn´t do much anymore. He is the most known player that I have played against.
Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time? Rene Rousseau, Christian Lutete, KJ Jackson, Andre Wesson, PJ Raymond
What is your NBA, Euro and Finish Mount Rushmores? Jordan, Lebron, Kobe, Derrick Rose
Nowitzki, Jokic, Giannis, Tony Parker
Lauri Markkanen, Petteri Koponen, Shawn Huff, Hanno Mottola
Oshane Drews (198-SG-2001) is a 24 year old 198cm shooting guard playing his second professional season with the Rostock SeaWolves. He began his basketball career at RSV Stahnsdorf and then played 2 years with the Junior Loewen Braunschweig (NBBL) and SG Braunschweig (2.Regionalliga). He then played 2 seasosn with the Dragons Rhondorf and then made the next step to the Uni Baskets Paderborn (PRO A). He came to the Rostock Seawolves in 2023. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a game against the Frankfurt Skyliners.
Congrats on the big 84-68 win in Vechta. Is every game now like a do or die game?
We want to win every game. Every game counts now. We don´t go easy into games. We still see ourselves as the underdog. That is the reason why we have come so far this season.
Rostock had the slim 18-15 lead after one quarter. In the second quarter, Rostock exploded for 31 points. What was the focus going into the second quarter? We changed our defensive sets a lot. It took us a while to get it going in the first quarter. We defended better in the second quarter and they didn´t adjust well.
Everything was clicking with many guys getting involved. Was that one of the best offensive quarters this season? I think it was one of the best this season. We are a defensive orientated team, but I feel like we have have improved a lot on offense.
Malik Osborne and Pedro Bradshaw were huge. How vital have they been for the success? It is never easy for a player to come in the middle of the season. You have to understand your role quickly. With Bradshaw we got a player who is great off ball and Osborne is a very strong offensive player that has helped us a lot on offense now.
Rostock managed the lead well in the second half. Did the defensive intensity lose some steam in the second half with such a comfortable lead? We lost a little concentration with our different defensive sets and switches. They also adjusted well.
Johan Grunloh had a strong game with 14/10. Will he go to the NBA or possibly go to the NCAA? I think college is out. He will get drafted and then play in the NBA
Frankfurt has a 2 game winning streak. Rostock easily won in Rostock 83-66. What will be key to getting the win on the road? Both have new teams and both have had runs. We can´t underestimate them only because they are lower in the standings. We will come in motivated. We need the win. The team that wants it more will win.
Your playing your second season for the Rostock Seawolves. Has Rostock become like a second home?
What I really like about Rostock is that is near to my home Berlin. If we hadn´t come back so late from Vechta and I hadn´t slept so late, I would have returned home on my off day.
How exciting is the easyCredit BBL this season? Between position 3 and 14 is only a 2 win difference. Will Rostock make the playoffs this season? Our goal are the playoffs. I feel like that if we keep playing the way we are now, we will reach it.
The team began 4-8 and then after Christmas won 6 of 7 games. What were the reasons for the team picking up their game? We had a crisis meeting after the bad start. We changed the team a bit as well as our tactics. We understood what we needed to do to execute the game plan the right way and be successful. The new players and underdog mentality has been key in our success.
How vital has head coach Przemyslaw Frasunkiewicz been for the success of the team? What have you enjoyed most about his teaching philosophy?
We had many injuries and our game plan changed a lot. Coach knew how to make the right adjustments and kept the offense and defense flexible.
What has it been like being teammates with American Bryce Hamilton? How valuable has he been to the success? Bryce is a great player and our offensive leader. You can give him the ball and he will do his thing.
Is Robin Amaize like a role model for you? What is the most important thing that you have soaked up from his game? He is also a super player. He plays different than Americans do. What I try to do is take things I like from players and try to incorporate it into my game. I like his mentality and IQ. I try to soak that up from his game.
Your averaging 5 minutes per game, 1 minute more than last season. How tough is it in general finding minutes with this stocked BBL roster?
It is difficult to get minutes. I wasn´t even planned to be on the team. But I stayed and have gotten my chances. I just will keep working hard and earn minutes.
How tough is it being as efficient as possible? Do you sometimes let your defense make noise letting it spark your offense? Yes I do. I always want to get into the game with my defense. It is tough to do something on offense with little touches. I think that I could do more on offense. The problem is when I come in, I try not to make mistakes. That mentality leads me too think twice during decision time. The BBL is so quick that you need to decide quicker. That second thought often leads to my option being gone.
Clay Wilson (191-G-1992, college: Princeton) is a former professional player that is an assistant under legend Dave Smart at the University of the Pacific. He began his coaching career at Green Country Defenders in Oklahoma. He then was an assistant at Cornell as well as at North Texas and also was director of player development at Texas Tech. He also was the co-founder, co-owner, and trainer for Elev8hoops in Oklahoma. He helped create one of the largest skill development programs in the region with more than 600 clients. He also co-founded the Clay Wilson and David Mason Skill Academy. As a player, he began his basketball career at Lincoln Christian high school and then played at Princeton (NCAA) from 2011-2015. He had a brief pro career playing 2 seasons in Germany with the VfL AstroStars Bochum and also played in Latvia and New Zealand. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Clay for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?
Miles! Thank you so much for reaching out. I am a huge fan of yours and have followed you and your stories for many years. You do a phenomenal job, and I still log into Eurobasket daily to keep track of recruits, friends, former teammates and coaches. I currently live in California and just finished up our season with the University of the Pacific in the West Coast Conference. The WCC is a tremendous league with many international players.
You retired in 2019 as a player and now are coaching. Has time flown by since your last season in Latvia?
Time has definitely flown by. As a player, there is a lot of down time during the season and time to rest and train, but as a coach, there is so much to do that you stay busy and the seasons fly by.
You began your career at Lincoln Christian High School where you were named the Oklahoma Class 3A player of the year after averaging 27.8 points, six assists and six rebounds per game as a senior. You finished your career as one of the top 100 scorers in the history of Oklahoma high school basketball. What does that mean to you being one of the top 100 best scorers in the state? A lot of great players have come from Oklahoma.
It’s very humbling. I never take my high school experience for granted. Lincoln Christian School is an unbelievable place filled with unbelievable people, and I loved every minute. I was blessed to have some great coaches and play with great teammates over my four years there. Individual accolades are great, but I wouldn’t have achieved anything without my team. To have my name mentioned in the same conversation as some of the greatest players in the state’s history is really a blessing.
You played at Princeton University (NCAA) from 2011-2015 being a Ivy league runner up in 2013. What do you remember from these early years in your basketball life?
My college experience took me through the full spectrum of emotions and helped me become the man I am today. From the first day of practice, where I separated my AC joint diving on a loose ball, my college experience was riddled with injuries. The list of injuries is pretty extensive, so honestly, for me, college basketball taught me more about being a great teammate, persevering, and leading than how to be a great player. I remember the frustration from not playing and the joy from playing well, I remember the sadness in defeat and the triumph in wins. I remember learning how to persevere through tough times, and how to love on my teammates. I played every role for my team during my college career, and I think my college experience truly set me up to be a great coach. Some coaches were the star player in their playing days, and I think they are good at teaching other star players. Some coaches were role players and I think they are good at teaching role players. When I look back at my college experience, I am grateful for the way things turned out. Although I didn’t meet my own expectations as a player, I learned valuable lessons along the way that I use as a coach to this day. During my four years at Princeton I experienced the full spectrum of being a collegiate athlete: I was an overlooked recruit. I became a highly touted recruit. I was the young player far away from home. I was the senior captain. I was the worst player on our team. I was the best player on our team. I was the sixth man. I was a rotational player. I was frustrated. I was hurt. I was healthy. I was fulfilled. I think going through this range of roles over my time in college has given me deep insight in how to relate to my players now as a coach. I have been in their shoes and I believe everything happens for a reason.
You played 3 seasons with TJ Bray. What memories will you always have of him? It´s a shame his playing career was so short.
TJ Bray is one of my favorite teammates I’ve ever had. I tell my current players stories about TJ and how good of a leader he was. I remember we had a freshman late for the team bus and TJ, as a sophomore captain, told our team nobody was allowed to get on the bus until everyone was there. He risked himself getting in trouble to save our freshman getting in trouble. That’s the type of person TJ is. He cares about the team more than anything and that’s how he played. He was an incredible passer and was extremely selfless. I think TJ could have played in the NBA if he kept playing. He played at his own pace and breathed life into our team. Our team was confident because TJ had the ball.
How did Mitch Henderson groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
Coach Henderson was all about precision. We used to do 5 on 0 offense for hours and hours. If one dribble or pass was off by even a few inches, we started over. For me, this level of detail and precision was exactly what I needed to make it to the next level. Other players were bigger and more naturally athletic than I was, so accuracy and exactness was key in me being able to succeed overseas. Another thing Coach Henderson did to prepare me for life was to allow me to see the fight it takes to be good. We are both super competitive people and I am grateful for the opportunity he gave me to fight for everything. I am very grateful for Coach Henderson and love to see Princeton continuing to succeed.
Did you already have a feeling during your Princeton days that you might go into coaching one day or did that come later? Definitely. I actually chose to go to Princeton because at the time, Princeton had the largest coaching tree in Division 1 basketball. I have known since I was 3 years old that God has called me to coach. I thank God everyday for allowing Sydney Johnson, Mitch Henderson, and Brian Earl to recruit me to Princeton.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or TJ Bray? Haha TJ is a far better player than I am. I will say I am a better shooter though.
You played your rookie season in Germany with the VfL AstroStars Bochum (Germany-ProB) averaging 13.2ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 78.9%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? I think my first wakeup call was actually getting my car from the AstroStars and realizing it was manual. I didn’t know how to drive stick at the time and learning how to drive stick shift, while reading street signs in a different language while on the Autobahn isn’t the best idea.
What memories will you always have of Ryon Howard? Was he like a mentor for you as a rookie? Ryon Howard is a consummate professional. He never missed a day, played hard every practice, and always did what was best for the team. I feel very fortunate to have played with him. He’s a winner through and through. I learned so much from him over the years.
You had many great games in Germany like scoring 30 points against Recklingshausen. What was your fondest moment on the court in Germany?
I think my fondest memory on the court in Germany was when we were down by more than 20 points at halftime to the #1 team (Iserlohn) and came back in the second half to win on the road. That was incredible and our GM and our President were so proud. Jerry Brown was on the team for Iserlohn. He now coaches in the WCC with me and we talked about this game recently.
You also played a season with 2 Cheap Cars Super City Rangers (New Zealand-NBL) averaging 19.9ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 43.8%, FT: 80.0%. Being able to live in New Zealand is everyone´s dream. What was your coolest experience there?
I love New Zealand and I try to go back as often as I can. The coolest experience by far was meeting Tania, Joe, and Bailey Sampson. These three people have become extended family. They were the first people I met when I got off the plane and they are some of the best people I know. They traveled to Cornell, Texas Tech, and recently just traveled to California to watch me coach. We went on several road trips together and I really immersed myself into New Zealand Culture. I am a big ‘Lord of the Rings’ fan as well so going to Hobbiton was an unreal experience.
I´m sure you will never forget your 48 points explosion and 11 three´s against Manawatu J. Unfortunately you lost the game. What memories do you have of that experience? I actually was coming off ankle surgery, so my contract stated that the team had the option to keep me or waive me after that game. I was essentially playing for my contract and everything went in. That was one of the best shooting performances I have ever had and it’s fun to go back and watch some of the crazy shots that went in.
You played your last pro season at BC Valga-Valka/Maks&Moorits (Latvia-LatEstBL) averaging 9.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 66.7%. What memories do you have of Latvia? My time in Latvia was interesting. My shoulder was so messed up that I needed surgery and I never really could get comfortable. I came to the country after the start of the season, played for two different coaches, had some contract issues and realized that God was calling me back to America to coach. I sometimes wish that the Latvian chapter in my story could be deleted, but I do believe it happened for a reason, and without it, I might still be playing and not coaching like I was called to do.
You retired at age 27. Did you realize that you had other opportunities like coaching? Why did you retire so young? I loved playing basketball, and I always said I wanted to play for as long as I could. I think my body ended up giving out on me. I put it through the wringer and I worked so hard to try and make it, that I think I put too many miles on my body too early. I definitely knew from a young age that I wanted to play professionally and then coach so I am thankful to be living my dream.
How would you like fans to remember Clay Wilson as the player? Hard working, tough, tenacious, grateful and a phenomenal teammate.
You are the co-founder, co-owner, and trainer for Elev8hoops in Oklahoma with more than 600 clients. You also co-founded the Clay Wilson and David Mason Skill Academy, instructing more than 400 campers. What was the biggest challenge of being able to have success?
The hardest part for me was the energy and the hours. I am passionate about helping others and sometimes I give so much that I forget I need to be replenished. I love seeing others succeed and grow. I wish there were more hours in the day and that I had unlimited energy to be able to help out each athlete.
You have trained many guys that went on to become pro´s. Is there a player that was really close to your heart that you helped train and become a pro? I loved working with Tylor Perry. He currently plays for the 905 Raptors, but he was super consistent. Always counted out because of his height, but his heart and his belief makes him great. We worked on his game for hundreds and hundreds of hours and he has put in the work to be great. We still talk frequently.
You were an assistant coach at Cornell from 2018-2021. What was your fondest moment in those 3 years? I was fortunate to work with some great people and coach some great players. Brian Earl gave me my start in coaching and I am forever grateful for him. He is a great coach and a great person. I think my fondest memories are just seeing people grow. I loved recruiting Chris Manon and Nazir Williams who have both gone on to become ‘All Ivy’ players. Neither one of them had many offers out of high school and were both underrecruited. Believing in people, stirring up that same belief in others and watching them succeed will never get old.
You helped develop Jim Boeheim who is a professional player in Germany. What memories do you have of your coaching relationship to him and how did you help him grow? Jim is the best! Great person, high character, hard worker, super talented, and extremely respectful. I loved working with him. He actually taught me a lot and I am proud to call him a friend. I remember working with him every single day on his shot. Out of conference he shot a poor percentage, and we just put the time in and he trusted it. His numbers in conference were way better. I would send him texts just encouraging him, but we all just need someone to encourage us every now and again. Shooting well is all about hard work and trusting that hard work. Jimmy will have a long career and make a lot of money playing basketball before he retires.
You were a coach for 2 years at North Texas and helped develop guys like Tylor Perry, Thomas Bell, Rubin Jones, Aaron Scott, and JJ Murray. What steps do you feel did you make as a coach in these 2 years? Grant McCasland helped me in so many ways during my time at North Texas & Texas Tech. He helped me see what it was like to Win at an elite level. The way he holds people accountable and teaches is second to none. I honestly believe he will win a national championship very soon. Under Coach McCasland and current North Texas Head Coach, Ross Hodge, I feel like I learned how to truly win. I have always been super competitive, but they both made me realize that achieving the ultimate goal takes everyone and it takes zooming out and looking at the big picture while keeping the small details in focus. North Texas was vital to my growth as a coach. They are two of the best coaches on this planet and I will keep learning from them for the rest of my career.
You were Director of Player Development in 2023-24 at Texas Tech and now are an assistant at Pacific under Canadian legend Dave Smart. What have you learned from him? He is one of those guys where I´m sure you able to soak something up every day? Coach Dave Smart is a legend. I like to call him a ‘mad scientist’ because he knows the game at such an elite level and has made a major impact on the game of basketball. He is relentless in his work ethic and his pursuit of greatness. He’s the first to the office and the last to leave even after all he has accomplished. I have tried to soak up as much as I could from him these past two years. He has seen every style of basketball and has worked with so many players and coaches over the years. I am extremely fortunate to know him, work with him these past two years, and to call him a friend. Dave will be someone I try to learn from the rest of my life.
What goals do you still have as a coach? Could you ever imagine coming overseas to work?
My ultimate goal is to impact people, help them grow, and to love people well. I believe that winning on the court translates to winning in life. I believe that I am impacting athletes positively in my role as an assistant coach, but I aspire, one day, to become a head coach. I LOVED living overseas and I could definitely picture myself going back overseas to coach. There are so many great coaches all over the world. I love learning different aspects of the game and different styles of coaching.
Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA? I played against Bradley Beal several times in the EYBL. He is a great player.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Ian hummer – Overseas pro TJ Bray – Overseas Pro Josh Richardson – NBA Dillon Boucher – New Zealand Olympian Lindsay Tait – New Zealand Olympian
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore? MJ, Lebron, Kobe, Steph
Who is your GOAT?
MJ is the goat, but my personal two favorite players ever are 1.) Pistol Pete Maravich and 2.) Steve Nash
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I haven’t seen it, but I’ll check it out.
German Hoops 