Calvin Wishart (188-G-1999, college: UCSB) is a 25 year old 188cm guard from Delano, Minnesota playing his second professional season and first in Germany with the VR Bank Wuerzburg Baskets Akademie (Germany-ProB). Last season he played with CD Povoa (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging 13.6ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 71.7%. He began his basketball career at Delano High School averaging 31.9ppg, 9.6rpg, 8.1apg, 3.6spg. He owns school records for career points (2,444), assists (798), steals (376) and 3-pointers (249). He then played 2 seasons at Georgia Southern University (NCAA) averaging 5.2ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 39.4%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 67.5% and 9.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 72.0%. He then played 2 seasons at the University of California Santa Barbara (NCAA) averaging 7.0ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 78.7% and 7.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 77.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Calvin for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second professional season and first in Germany with VR Bank Wuerzburg Baskets Akademie. What kind of an experience has it been for you and what have you enjoyed most about it?

It’s been an exciting journey so far. Playing with a younger group of guys and being the oldest player by 3 years, it’s a fun, new challenge. I’ve been enjoying getting to know my new teammates and exploring Germany a bit in my free time, as it’s my first time in the country.

You played your rookie season in Portugal and had a good season. This season your playing in Germany´s third division Pro B. Isn´t this like taking a step backwards or is being able to practice with the BBL team something that will be an advantage?

It’s a step down from Portugal 1, but being able to be the leader of the team and looked to contribute more volume is a good thing. In addition, being able to jump in some practices with the BBL team and learn from the high level pros and coach Sasha is a real privilege this early in my career.

VR Bank Wuerzburg Baskets Akademie began slow losing it´sfirst 6 games including 2 tough 1 point loses, but now is on a 3 game winning streak. What have been the main causes for the turnaround?

We didn’t have a full squad for any of those first 6 games. My work visa wasn’t passed, and I had a couple small injuries that prevented me from also playing. Some of main contributors got healthy, and we’ve been able to practice all together lately. We’re starting to figure out what it takes to win, especially what it takes defensively.

The team has some real talented players like Hannes Steinbach and Tyrese Williams. What exactly is your role on the club?

I can’t speak on playing with Tyrese as we won’t play together as he’s mainly with the BBL team. But my role is to be a leader. Vocally, and by example through my play. Do a bit of everything, and be the best on ball defender. Being an example for the younger guys in practice everyday and being a young mentor for them whenever they are seeking help and asking questions about the game.

What has it been like playing with big man Hannes Steinbach. Just how talented is this kid? You observe him in practice every day.

He’s one of the best bigs I’ve ever played with, he’s legit. He can score in every way, pass, block shots, rebound, run the floor for oops. I wouldn’t be surprised seeing him in the NBA in the next couple years.

How would you describe Alex King as coach? What have you enjoyed most about his basketball philosophy?

I’ve really enjoyed my time with Alex. He expects a lot from us, as he played at the highest level in Europe. He brought me here believing that I could make the jump to that next level with the right guidance. He makes practice something I really look forward to. He rolls the ball out and lets us play and compete, which I love.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 188cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I like Jalen Brunson’s ability to play off two feet and use his pivots, I feel like I do that well. No one is Kyrie, but he’s my favorite player and I like to watch his warm up and practice habits and utilize his techniques in my training and prep. I like the variety and randomness guys like him and James Harden use in their training.

You can really score the ball and dish out assists. What other strengths does your game have?

My defense. I take my one on one matchup pretty seriously, and I take pride in being in the right position when I’m off the ball and communicating the most on the floor.

You have never cracked the 40% mark from outside in the NCAA or pro´s. How would you describe the development of your shot? Could you become an elite shooter down the road?

Shooting has always been and always will be something that I am trying to improve. I feel like once I get caught up in the numbers and percentage is when it gets worse. I try to just shoot what I think are good looks and knock it down. When I miss or get into a slump, that’s when I need to having the shooters mentality, knowing I’ll just shoot the next one that feels good without hesitation.

How would you describe your defensive game? You never averaged more than 1 steal and this season it´s 4 in the early going.

Contained aggression and IQ. Knowing when it’s ok to be aggressive and gamble a little bit versus when I need to just contain. Thinking about the offense through their eyes and feet allow me to figure out the cadence different players have. I think that’s what’s been helping me get more steals.

You are a gym rat. On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game?

Most of what it is for me is my body and conditioning entering each season, so in the summers I try to work hard at that. Gym sessions are lots of shooting and finishing, getting better with my left around the rim and honestly just shooting tougher shots off of creative dribbles and footwork. I want to get into higher level, and I know that’s required. Quicker shot making and more efficient movements.

Last season you played with CD Povoa (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging 13.6ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 71.7%. What do you remember being your wake upcall to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I would say my biggest wake up call was maybe a few games into the season and realizing how much different it was from college. There’s much more freedom and allowance from the coaches. I realized it was more about us players making it happen, rather than a specific game plan or schemes. I particularly enjoy that. Looking at the 4 others on the floor knowing that it’s up to us to get this win, to make game winning plays, and not to follow a black and white game plan by the staff.

You lost a tough playoffs series to Oliveirense and had solid games against top teams Benfica and FC Porto. How did your game grow in Portugal?

Sort of similar answer to the last question, but just the fact that it’s professional sports now. The coaches trust you to make plays, and that in itself brings more out of you. For me, it’s been a lot better than college because I’m not restricted into one specific role. I’m free to make decisions, and mistakes. Personally, that’s when I thrive more when I have the ability to think freely.

You were an explosive scorer in high school but in the NCAA never averaged in double figures in scoring and as a pro back to your scoring ways. How beneficial was the NCAA for your overall game?

College was tough for me, but I also played with lots of talented guards where it was better that they had the ball and decisions. It was never the wrong decision to have Tookie Brown or Ajay Mitchell making every decision down the floor, because they were the best decision makers and play makers. What NCAA did for me was help me understand the roles of a team and the sacrifices it takes to be successful and win. I won 85 games in college in 4 years, but never scored over 10 ppg. I was able to affect the game in many other ways and always found myself in the starting lineup and playing lots of minutes, that’s all I wanted anyways.

You played at Georgia Southern University (NCAA) from 2018-2020 averaging 5.2ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 39.4%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 67.5% and 9.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 72.0%. How did your game develop further under head coach Mark Byington?

Coach Byington was a great coach for me. He gave me confidence as a freshman coming into Georgia Southern and allowed me to play without thinking too much. He taught me to work on cooling my composure, which he was always good at. He was very poised throughout the season, through the ups and downs. He instilled that in me.

What memories do you have of senior Tookie Brown? Was he like a mentor for you?

Tookie was a leader by example. Him and Ike Smith were the two guys I looked up to during my time at southern. Both basketball junkies and gym rats. It seemed like they were always on the gun shooting, or getting treatment on their bodies outside of our practice times.

You then played at the University of California Santa Barbara (NCAA) from 2021-2023 averaging 7.0ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 78.7% and 7.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 77.9%. You won the Big West Title and reached the big dance. What memories do you have of the title win over CS Fullerton and the loss to Baylor?

I remember the big west title game against Fullerton being a really fun battle. It was probably my favorite college game I played in. Not only because we punched our ticket to the NCAA tourney, but I gave good contribution to the game we needed most. In our game against Baylor, we were up by 1 at halftime feeling really good, myself too. I hit my first couple shots and my match up was Keyonte George and I remember I was playing good defense. It seemed like they just flipped their on switch or something. They turned it up in the second half, turning us over and making shots, ending up losing it. But to play in front of 20,000 and millions on TV was something I’ll never forget.

How did head coach Joe Pasternack groom and prepare you best for a professional career

Coach P didn’t give me much confidence at all in college to be honest. Coach John Rillie was the one who recruited me to UCSB, and he always had my back and gave me great advice that I needed during that time. As did coach Derek Glasser. Rillie always told me that he thought I would be a better pro than college player. Pasternack was very hard on me, like he is to everyone, but he never really allowed me to play my game. He wanted me to fit a certain role, which I tried my best to do, but it was a difficult 3 years for me to say the least.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Ajay Mitchell?

Ajay and I played 1-1 a few times in drills in practice and a few times on our own outside of practice. I can confidently say we were pretty much splitting those games. But we battled everyday, we were each others match up.

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

Anthony Edwards

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

That’s tough. Matthew Hurt, Ajay Mitchell, Amadou Sow, Daniel Oturu, Ike Smith

Your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Michael Jordan

Your Who is your GOAT?

Kyrie Irving

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

I haven’t seen it

Thanks Calvin for the chat.

It is always nice to see an ex Skyliner legend back in Basketball City Mainhatten as few can forget Alex King who won his first meaning full title then as a young 19 year old under the guidance of World Cup champion Gordon Herbert in 2004. After an illustrious playing career, King now is coaching Wurzburg´s farm team who he led into the Pro B last season. After a disastrous 6 game losing streak to start the season that saw 2 heart breaking 1 point loses, the team has found themselves now having registered a 3 game winning streak led by Hannes Steinbach (206-F/C-2006) and Calvin Wishart. Their opponent Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors had their 3 game winning streak snapped in Leitershofen last weekend and were focused to get back to their winning ways. On a mild December night the 5-4 Skyliners Juniors met the 3-6 Wurzburg team and came out flat and were never able to recover losing 89-80. They were unable to contain the dynamic duo of Steinbach and Wishart as they combined for 49 points. “We didn´t have the right mentality or energy at both ends of the court. We weren´t aggressive enough and didn´t get to the free throw line enough. Our 1-1 defense was a problem as was team defense”, stressed Frankfurt Skyliner Junior Namori Omog. VR-Bank Wurzburg Baskets Akademie came out focused from the get go and just got a great team effort at both ends of the court and never let up for 40 minutes. “We were aggressive and did a good job remaining poised when they pressured us. We were able to match their physicality and stuck to our game plan trying to get Kordel into foul trouble. We took what the defense gave us and did a good job on the offensive glass and got 50/50 balls”, stressed Wurzburg guard Calvin Wishart.

Jamie Edoka at the FT line

VR-Bank Wurzburg Baskets Akademie jumped all over Frankfurt in the first minutes to lead 10-2 and led 26-16 after 10 minutes. Big German talent Hannes Steinbach who averaged 14/10 at the AST last season produced 5 points and American Calvin Wishart from Minnesota nailed a trey. Wurzburg showed nice inside out ball, but it was evident that they tried to really feed Steinbach the ball who was unstoppable. German Felix Hecker got Frankfurt on the board at 7,53 to trail 10-2. Before Frankfurt knew what hit them again, they trailed 21-10 as Steinbach continued to be dominant scoring 3 times while Wishart made free throws. Frankfurt had massive problems with their 1-1 defense while inside there was no help and Kordel was absent on the bench stuck with 2 fouls. “Steinbach is big, has long arms and makes long steps. All he needs is to take a few dribbles and he can score easily even if 5 guys are guarding him”, said Namori Omog. Frankfurt got some vital buckets inside from Hecker and Omog to stay on track, but they just couldn´t make a run or get consecutive stops as they trailed 26-16 after one quarter. VR-Bank Wurzburg Baskets Akademie shot 53% from the field and 40% from outside and had 10 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners juniors shot 35% from the field and 0% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 4 turnovers. “We were aggressive and set the tone. We gave them the feeling early that they can´t mess with us. We got Steinbach involved early and he showed that he can do it all”, stated Calvin Wishart.

Malicl Kordel hook shot

In the second quarter VR-Bank Wurzburg Baskets Akademie continued to control the game and despite a run by Frankfurt had the comfortable 52-43 advantage at half-time. Omog who is best known for his lethal drive stroked home a trey as Frankfurt trailed 26-19. But on this night, the guests always had an answer getting baskets from Lithuanian player Matas Narvilas and Steinbach and Wishart to lead 33-21. After a Kordel lay in and a Crnjac dunk, Wurzburg countered with a Lukas Roth trey and Narvilas lay in as Frankfurt trailed 38-25. Frankfurt´s offense was executing a lot better and was rewarded with a 8-2 run to trail 40-33. In the run, Frankfurt got a three pointer from Crnjac, Edoka dunk and Kordel lay in. After a Narvila three pointer, Frankfurt went on a 10-4 run and continued to crawl closer trailing 47-43. In the run, Frankfurt got massive support from NBBL player Julius Messer who connected on 2 three´s. He had been injured for some time and returned being very efficient. “I told him not to think so much, but just play his game and do what he does best. His confidence rose after he saw one go in. We both harmonize well together on the court”, stated Namori Omog. Frankfurt was unable to take that momentum into the break as Steinbach continued to do what he wanted to hitting another trey and David Gerhart made a jumper as Wurzburg led 52-43. “It was a game of runs. We wanted our runs to be longer. We wanted to cut off their water and make the needed adjustments”, stated Calvin Wishart. VR-Bank Wurzburg Baskets Akademie shot 49% from the field and 31% from the three point line and had 17 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors shot 55% from the field and 29% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

Calvin Wishart at the FT line

In the third quarter VR-Bank Wurzburg Baskets Akademie continued to control the game and stepped up their defense a bit and upped their lead to 15 points after 30 minutes. Ex Iserlohn big man Malik Kordel gave Frankfurt some energy with 2 massive dunks as he was put into perfect position, but Frankfurt´s 1-1 defense let them down all night long as Steinbach hit another three pointer and ex FC Bayern Munich 2 player Christian Skladanowski made a lay in for the 59-47 lead. The German seemed to be all over the court and finished with 11 points. “He does a bit of everything and is very athletic at the 4 spot and is always in the right spot on defense. He is the classic utility player and was big for us”, added Calvin Wishart. Frankfurt got free throws from Jamie Edoka and a lay in by Crnjac, but Wurzburg simply didn´t have any down phases with their offensive execution. Wurzburg continued to attack the paint and received lay in´s from Wishart and Skladanowski for the 64-51 advantage. Despite Steinbach making back to back lay in´s, Frankfurt got more great support from NBBL (U-19) players Julius Messer who added 5 points and Omog made a lay in in traffic to trail 73-58 after 3 quarters. “Steinbach and I play well together. He can do it all. My dad always say Bill Russell and Bob Cousy with me being Cousy”, smiled Calvin Wishart. VR-Bank Wurzburg Baskets Akademie shot 46% from the field and 27% from the parking lot and had 28 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors shot 51% from the field and 26% from the parking lot and had 26 rebounds and 17 turnovers.

Julius Messer from down town

In the fourth quarter the Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors made 1 last comeback attempt cutting the lead down to 6 points, but they just couldn´t get over the hump as time ran out. Kordel got Frankfurt it´s first field goal of the fourth quarter with a pretty hook shot to trail 73-60. But VR-Bank Wurzburg Baskets Akademie just continued to execute well on offense as Wishart made a deep three over Peters and ex Speyer guard David Pisic made a pull up jumper for the 78-60 advantage. Both clubs went on mini runs as more NBBL power came from Omog with a trey and a Maxi Peters lay in, but Wurzburg punched back with a Lukas Roth three pointer and Narvilas 20 footer as Frankfurt trailed 83-65. But Frankfurt still had some energy as they punched back with a 12-1 run to trail 84-77. In the run, 16 year old Jamie Edoka gave massive energy with 5 baskets in a row. He showed that he could take responsibility like no other player that age ever has in a Pro B game. He made a 15 footer, dunk, runner and lay in showing his extreme offensive versatility. Hecker added a trey to trail 86-80 with 1,15 to play. “They put extra pressure on us which led to turnovers. We became to hesistant on offense”, said Calvin Wishart. However Wurzburg slammed the door shut with Narvilas and Steinbach free throws for the win. “We stayed patient and cool and closed out the game with free throws”, added Calvin Wishart. “We were aggressive, but we ran out of time. Offensive rebounds and 50/50 balls did us in”, expressed Namori Omog. VR-Bank Wurzburg Baskets Akademie were led by Hannes Steinbach with 28 points and 12 rebounds and Calvin Wishart added 21 points while the Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors were led by Jamie Edoka with 16 points while Namori Omog added 14 points and Malick Kordel 13 points. VR-Bank Wurzburg Baskets Akademie sho40% from the field and 28% from outside and had 41 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 52% from the field and 27% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 21 turnovers.

Jaylen McManus (201-F-1997, college: Charleston) is a 27 year old 201cm forward that was born in Charlotte, North Carolina and grew up in Huntersville. He is playing his third professional season and second with BC Baeren Kleinbasel (Switzerland-NLB). He began his professional career with Ockelbo BBK (Sweden-Superettan) averaging 23.0ppg, Reb-4 (9.6rpg), 1.6spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 83.3%. He began his basketball career at North Mecklenburg high school and then played at the College of Charleston (NCAA) from 2016-2020 playing a total of 125 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Your playing your second season with the BC Baeren Kleinbasel (Switzerland-NLB). What have you appreciated most about the experience?

The biggest thing I appreciate about this experience is just being blessed through the grace of God, and that the club embraced me, and encouraged me to be me.

How thankful have you been to coach Pascal Donati. How else has he helped you grow as a player besides just giving you freedom to be you?

I am highly thankful for Coach! He has helped me in numerous ways! He’s a players coach! He really stands behind his players but also teaches the guys the correct way! Coach gives the team a bit of confidence on offense by letting the guys be a bit free and get a feel and flow for the game which is amazing!

You never averaged more than 8,5ppg in the NCAA and now are a deadly and prolific scorer. Did you always have scoring in your genes?

I will say yes, I have always been a pretty good scorer, but college is a different ball game where you want to win. Guys on the team have to find a role and accept it for the success of the team. There were games where I got to show off my scoring ability more but the way our team was made up, there was so much talent everywhere anybody could be the top scorer.

You had a solid NCAA career but have had to pay your dues as a professional. How big is your chip on your shoulder in general? Does it get bigger with every passing pro season?

Growing up I was a blue collar kid! I had to grind and work for everything and also consider myself an underdog and I love having the underdog mentality! My journey made me who I am, so the motivation, passion, and grit I have will never leave. I am always hungry for more and never satisfied. So yes the chip always gets bigger cause there’s more for me to give!

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

Well my favorite player is Kobe Bryant so I tried to model after him a bit but and a lot of people compare my game to Carmelo Anthony. And just watching Carmelo I can see the similarities a bit because of the versatility.

You fill the stat sheet well. How big is versatility in your game?

I always strive to be a versatile player. I feel the game needs guys that can do it on both ends but also be a match up problem.

You have averaged 9 rebounds per game since turning pro. Have you suddenly been able to jump higher or do other things better. What do you believe has been key for helping you become a great rebounder.

I would necessarily jump higher or much but, getting rebounds is an effort thing and I take pride and try to get those effort plays especially not trying to give a team another offense possession.

You have improved your 3 point shooting the last 2 seasons, but this season down a bit. Do you feel like you could become an elite shooter down the road?

I feel I am a really good shooter, but the season is still young and my shooting from 3 will improve. I work everyday with shooting before and after practice. So you will see much more improvement through the course of the season.

Your also a great defender. How would you describe the development of your defensive game as a professional? What kind of a defender do you still want to become?

My defense has been getting better over the years of my career but that all started in college. Learning from a defensive minded head coach. Knowing certain actions but also studying film on players knowing tendencies and certain actions teams like to run. The defender I want to be is no matter what switch I can guard any position and that’s what I will continue to work to do.

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

I have been working on just continuing my development in staying versatile, making sure my handle is getting better day by day, tuning up my shooting, and working on my body a lot making sure joints and muscles are not stiff.

You played your rookie season with Ockelbo BBK (Sweden-Superettan) averaging (23.0ppg), Reb-4 (9.6rpg), 1.6spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 83.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake up call was just knowing I was finally about to be a pro and didn’t want to take any opportunity for granted. Alright God blessed me with an opportunity I prayed countless times for. I just had to take advantage and show people the player I am.

How tough was your rookie season? You were injured after 5 games. What did you learn about yourself in that season?

Yeah so my rookie season was a pretty alright season, but Covid actually ended the season for me that year. When I signed a new contract I got hurt during my workout with my trainer which pushed me back.

You played at the College of Charleston (NCAA) from 2016-2020 and made a big jump in your senior year. How did your game grow in that last season?

My senior year I knew I had to take a bigger step especially with Jarrell and other guys graduating. The summer before going into my senior season. I worked extremely hard. Doing 3 to 4 workouts a day. Texting my position coach constantly about shooting. Even during the season I would work out before and after practice, and even off days. I wanted myself to be prepared for any moment that was thrown at me.

You won the CAA title in 2018 and reached the big dance losing to Auburn. What memories do you have of that run?

The 2018 run was such a special run. The team as a whole was just a special team, everyone worked extremely hard, we all knew what the goal was. But, the biggest thing was we all were having fun playing the game we love to play. Such a special time.

You had so many great games in the NCAA. What was your fondest moment on the court?

Most fondest moment I would say was the game we won to reach the NCAA tournament. It was in the city of Charleston, a big crowd, the whole city was celebrating. It was just a joyful moment.

What was your fondest moment with Jarrell Brantley? Did you already know in college that he would reach the NBA?

Yeah Jarrell really is genuine always smiling and playing around but always was ready to work, and played with such passion! It’s funny because in my first year of college me and him were roommates. Just really watching Jarrell of the 3 years we were teammates, I saw how hard he worked before practice working out, getting shots after practice and even going to the gym late at night. I learned a lot from him, he was a motivation for me to work harder because we were so competitive. We all loved each other but we also wanted to make each other better and he really helped me in some way with my development through college. All in all, yes I knew he was going to reach the achievement from the work he put in.

How did head coach Earl Grant groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Grant helped me a lot! He really groomed me to take more pride on defense especially knowing he is a defensive minded coach so, if you want to be on the floor you got to be able to guard and know assignments. All in all coach great is a great coach not only that but a great father figure as well.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jarell Brantley?

Haha! Man, this is a funny question. If we are talking about practice he won’t say it but I used to get under his skin a bit, but he definitely got the best of me a good amount of times.

Who is the toughest player you ever face din the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Toughest players I faced, I would say Harry Giles in high school was a monster. In college there’s a few but to give one is Justin wright- foreman. Justin was a very good scorer and from all three levels.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

5 best teammates of all time I will say Davion Mintz, who was my high school teammate then the others are my college guys and that’s Jarrell Brantley, Grant Riller, Joe Chealey, and Brevin Galloway.

Your NBA Mount Rushmore?

My NBA Rushmore is MJ, Kobe, LeBron, the last one can be very interchangeable in my opinion but I will give it to Kareem.

Your Who is your GOAT?

My goat is MJ but Kobe is second!

Thanks Jaylen for the chat.

Phlandrous Fleming Jr. (193-G-1998, college: Florida) is a 25 year old 193cm guard from Athens, Georgia playing his third professional season and first in Germany with the Telekom Baskets Bonn averaging 15,5ppg, 3,3rpg and 4,0apg in the BBL and in the BCL is averaging 12,8ppg, 3,5rpg and 2,8apg. Last season he played with ESSM Le Portel Cote d’Opale (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 11.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-5 (1.4spg), FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 26.1%, FT: 82.1%. He played his rookie season with Vitoria SC/Costa Guerreiro Lda. (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging 16.1ppg, 6.3rpg, Assists-5 (4.9apg), Steals-5 (2.0spg), Blocks-4 (1.2bpg), FGP: 59.2%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 87.1%. He began his basketball career at Cedar Shoals high school and then played at Charleston Southern University (NCAA) from 2017-2021 playing a total of 101 NCAA games. In his last 2 seasons there he averaged 17.7ppg, 8.7rpg, 3.8apg, 1.3spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 25.9%, FT: 77.9% and 20.1ppg, 7.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 80.6%. He finished his NCAA career at the University of Florida (NCAA) averaging 11.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.1apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 79.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with German easyCredit team Telekom Baskets Bonn. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? What friends, opponents or former teammates have played in Germany?

Thank you, I am glad to have been recruited to play at Bonn. I do not know much about Germany or German basketball but I am eager to get there and learn as much as I can to help. I have a couple people that played there such as my former coach from Charleston Southern, Arlon Harper. He did not tell me much about the game but he said Germany was a good place to play.

What does it mean for you coming from the potent France Pro A to the BBL league. You won´t see as many freak athletes in this league like in France?

I loved France and the competitive atmosphere in France. I’m not sure how athletic German basketball is, but I am looking to bring some of that athleticism with me from France. It means a lot because I want to continue to achieve higher levels every year if possible, to eventually play at the highest level if I am able to.

You stated in the press release that you and coach Moors are alike in many ways. What else did you appreciate most about him besides his fighting and winning mentality?

I appreciated his honesty and that he is a former player. In this game it is rare where you can find coaches that are honest about how they feel about you and your game while recruiting you. I also think being coached by a former player that did fairly well, and have played alongside and against great players, he can help me become a better overall player.

What is a big goal this season for you besides winning a championship in Germany? Possibly making another name for yourself as defender and being the best defender in the BBL?

My number one goal is to win a championship, but yes, the very next goal for myself is to be the best defender in the league. That is another thing Coach and I have in common, the defensive mindset. I believe that defense wins. I am looking to be that defensive guy on the team and excel in that area.

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

In the modern NBA game today I would compare my game to other combo defensive oriented players such as; Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Jaden McDaniel. Guys that are able to guard multiple positions at a high level, and also are skillful enough to affect the game on the offensive end too.

Everybody talks about your defense, but your also a very strong offensive player. What is your biggest strength on offense?

I think one of my most slept on abilities is to score the ball because of the defensive mindset I have. My biggest strength is attacking the rim and scoring in the paint. My athleticism allows me to finish over bigger defenders and get to the free throw line a good amount.

You have proven that you can be a playmaker as you almost averaged 4,0assists in a season at Charleston. How well developed is your playmaking going into your third pro season?

My playmaking ability is a very overlooked part of my game also. This past year helped me a lot in France because the competition was better than it was in Portugal. In Portugal my coach moved me to the 1 position and it ultimately helped me get to France and be able to play 1 & 2 positions. Charleston Southern helped my playmaking ability so much also because they depended on me to do some of everything so that too helped my playmaking ability.

Your three pointer is still a work in progress. You haven´t eclipsed the 30% mark yet as a professional. How much of a priority is getting your percentages up?

Yes, that is the emphasis of the summer. I am a much better shooter than my percentages say. That is a huge part of my game that I am continually working to improve. I am looking forward to showcasing that I am a much better shooter than my previous years.

Talk a little about your defensive qualities. Which top NBA defender is your role model?

My defensive qualities start with my 7 ft wingspan. I believe I use my length and athleticism at a high level. Jrue Holiday, Tony Allen, & Marcus Smart are the players that I watch the most. Their timing, anticipation, and guessing game are elite whenever they guard players.

What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I believe I am a great on ball defender that is continuing to improve my anticipation and reading players to affect their game in a major way. I have a great motor that allows me to relentlessly work on the defensive to get a stop for my team. I want to continue to become a smarter player on and off the ball. I want to gain better awareness and develop in that area also.

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

There are two areas of my game that I am working on at the moment. Shooting and making threes on & off the dribble. I am also continuing to get better with my footwork.

Last season you played with ESSM Le Portel Cote d’Opale (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 11.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-5 (1.4spg), FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 26.1%, FT: 82.1%. You lost 4 times to Monaco. How big of a challenge was it defending Mike James. He only played 1 game but scored 11 points in 13 minutes.

Mike James is the Euroleagues best scorer of all time, for a reason and even though we only played him once I watched him a lot. His scoring is very efficient, so any room or any flinch to get you off balance he does a great job of taking advantage of that.

You split with top team Paris and saw TJ Shorts put up 20 and 25 points. What was it like defending against that mega high energy and lightening quick guard?

TJ Shorts is a heck of a player that was the engine of his team the entire year. He sets a great example for the guys around him by making them all better. It was difficult to guard him at times because he is like you said speedy. I was able to use my length to affect his game. I think we were able to beat them the first time because we made other players make plays for them. When he has the ball great things happen whether that’s him scoring or him facilitating. But when we made him defer early and not get the ball back we were successful.

You played your rookie season with Vitoria SC/Costa Guerreiro Lda. (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging 16.1ppg, 6.3rpg, Assists-5 (4.9apg), Steals-5 (2.0spg), Blocks-4 (1.2bpg), FGP: 59.2%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 87.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

The style of play once I got to Portugal was a wake up call for me because it was very different from what I was used to. I quickly got adjusted because that’s the type of player/person, adaptive.

You played at Charleston Southern University (NCAA) from 2017-2021. You made a big jump in your game especially scoring in your last 2 years. How did your game grow there?

That year I had a lot of great people around me that helped me excel in all areas of the game. I was put in a position where they needed so much from me and my will and want to win just responded. I spent hours and hours in the gym to better myself.

You had many great games, but really had Presbyterian´s number once registering a triple double and another time scoring 35 points. What was your best game with Charleston Southern??

I believe my best game was against Gardner Webb, where we won in 4OT. I had 29 points 9 rebounds 11 assist 7 blocks and 4 steals. It was my favorite game partly because we won and because it was so much fun.

How did Barclay Radebaugh groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I would say he helped me to realize what was going to be my niche or best quality as a professional. He told me my motor and my defense would make me a lot of money one day, and those are the two qualities that coaches love the most about me.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Ja´Quavian Florence?

Me of course. Never lost a 1 on 1 in Charleston. Travis McConico and Cortez Mitchell are my only teammates in Charleston that beat me in 1on1.

How important was it playing a 5th season at the University Florida (NCAA) where you averaged 11.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.1apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 79.5%. How did Al Pinkins give you that extra push as a player?

It was very important to play for the Gators because it allowed me to continue making a name for myself and play against some of the best players in the world on a collegiate level. Coach Pinkins was a great help for me and my success with his talks and coaching throughout the year.

You played twice against NCAA powerhouse Kentucky and held your own against TY Ty Washington. When you see a guy like him and compare yourself, do you see so much difference in Skill and give you confidence that you can continue to reach the highest level?

Tyty Washington was a great competitor to play against. I do not compare myself to him much because we are two totally different types of players, but yes I believe I am just as skillful if not more. I have the confidence that I can play with the best of the best at any level.

Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA?

I was fortunate to play many great players in high school and in college. The best player I have played would probably be Michael Porter Jr. His size at 17 and skill was far surpassed by everyone around him. He was stronger and jumped higher than everyone. He is by far the toughest matchup I have had to guard.

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

Matt Kormylo

Travis McConico

Keyontae Johnson

Brandon McKissic

JC Cavin

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James & Kevin Durant

Who is your GOAT and why

My goat is and will always be Kobe Bryant. He is the player that I have always looked up to. I fell in love with the game of basketball because of his intent to be great paired with his focus and relentless nature on the court. I wore 24 my entire life because of him and when he passed away I took the 2 away and kept the 4. He symbolized work ethic, skill, and embodied the nature of Love throughout his tenure. He left a legacy, stamp, huge mark on every single player he’s ever played against/ with. He is still held to high regards by his peers and everyone around the WORLD. He is my goat and will always be.

Thanks Phlandrous for the chat.

After the Fiba break the Pro A was back in action as 12th placed team EPG Guardians Koblenz wanted to get back on the wining track after losing a brutal 80-78 game in their own living room to Nurnberg. The 4-6 team had 11 days of soul searching to do as well as prepare for ex easyCredit BBL team Tigers Tuebingen who came to Koblenz sporting a strong 8-2 record and had won 7 of their last 8 games and had demonstrated their knack of winning the real nail bitters. Tuebingen was one of those teams that have a real good balance while the EPG Guardians Koblenz had the inside advantage. Both teams had their top point guards in action with Kenny Cooper and Ty Cockfield Jr. (183-PG-1996, college: Arkansas St., agency: BIG) who were tearing up the Pro A league. But on this day it was definitely Ty Cockfield that won that battle pacing the EPG Guardians Koblenz to upset the Tigers Tuebingen to the 80-73 victory. It was the best win and performance of the season for Koblenz as they had no real down phase in the game and came together as a team for 40 minutes. “This was our biggest win of the season. We had a great week of practice and we paid attention to details. We are all on the same page with coach Van den Berg and now can attack his philosophy. We were aggressive at both ends. We hit them first and kept punching. On defense were helping, rotating and just flying around on the court”, warned Ty Cockfield Jr.. The Tigers Tuebingen had been known for winning the close ones this season as they had done it 4 times already, but today, they were unable to execute the way they have done in previous weeks. “We weren´t able to execute coaches game plan. We didn´t rebound well for 40 minutes and gave them too many extra possessions”, stressed Tigers Tuebingen guard Miles Tention. “This was our best game this season. We had no down phase. We had problems finding our rhythm in the first quarter, but when we did in the second quarter, we pretty much kept it until the end. Coach Van Den Berg did a great job with a good rotation with the player subs in the gams. We got our bigs involved well and defended consistently”, warned Sport manager Thomas Klein.

Ty Cockfield at the FT line

The EPG Guardians Koblenz were without their identity figure Dominique Johnson while the Tigers Tuebingen were complete. The first quarter was a close affair that exhibited the Tigers having their 3 point shooting game cooking while Koblenz were more active inside. Ex St Peters (NCAA) forward Samuel Idowo was on fire in the first minutes nailing 3 three´s while the EPG Guardians were in attack mode getting a lay in by Cockfield, Lay in by German Moses Poelking and offense rebound and put back by ex Assumption College (NCAA2) guard Kasey Draper. California native and Andre Igudala friend Miles Tention got aggressive scoring 5 points for the 14-8 lead. Tentíon would finish with 11 points and 7 dimes as he came into the game averaging only 6ppg. “I made shots which was a long time coming and facilitated well”, said Miles Tention. However the Guardians also had another aggressive guard who executed well besides Cockfield with rookie Michael Bradley who produced 5 points to trail only 14-13. Tuebingen kept their nose ahead as in the last minutes Kenny Cooper who has a game like JJ Davison scored as did Cockfield, but the Tigers led 19-16 after 10 minutes. Tuebingen was shooting a prolific 57% from outside while Koblenz was at a dismal 20%. Koblenz was doing the work inside shooting 67% from the 2 point range and had the 6-5 rebound edge while both teams had extreme difficulty taking care of the ball with 6 turnovers a piece. “We were feeling each other out. It was like a boxing match as both teams were hitting hard. It is all about who takes the most punches”, stated Ty Cockfield.

Miles Tention from outside

In the second quarter the EPG Guardians kept fighting and took the lead in the last minutes to take the 43-37 lead at half-time. The EPG Guardians began with 2 three´s from Mr Microwave Leon Friederici to trail only 26-24 as Cooper who came into the game shooting 53% from outside also connected from the parking lot. Both teams continued to execute well on offense, but that was actually helping the EPG Guardians more simply because they hadn´t been used to being so consistent on the offensive end this season. Koblenz got a lay in from ex North Kentucky (NCAA) forward David Boehm and trey from Draper while the guests countered with Idowu who had missed some three´s since his game beginning explosions now went for the drive with 2 lay´s as the Tigers led 32-31. Koblenz´s self-confidence continued to grow with every new bucket and that helped them end the second quarter with a lethal 12-5 run to lead 43-37 at the break. In the run, the EPG Guardians were led by young German Adi Eri and Michael Bradley with 2 baskets. “Adi helped us so much. I won´t forget where he scooped down 3 offensive rebounds in a row. Even if it didn´t lead to a basket, it helped us get over the edge with his energy and secure the momentum Michael is my partner in crime. We feed off each other so well and are always locked in. ”, warned Ty Cockfield. The precise three point shooting of Koblenz had their percentage at 55% while the Tigers were also solid at 45%. Both teams had 13 rebounds a piece and Koblenz 9 turnovers and Tuebingen 9 turnovers. “We really flourished with our discipline. We made the right plays and read their defense, not forcing anything, but taking what they gave us”, commented Ty Cockfield.

Allin Blunt with the off balance shot

In the third quarter there was no Guardians let down, but they just continued to execute well at both ends and manage their lead well and led 63-55 after 3 quarters. The EPG Guardians Koblenz jumped all over the Tigers Tuebingen with a 8-2 run to extend their lead to 51-41. How often had one seen the Guardians in the past begin to produce an overflow of three attempts instead of attacking the rim. In the run, the team did a great job involving the bigs as Bohm made a lay in and Poelking a dunk. They also got buckets inside by Friederici and Cockfield. The Guardians offense were in another galaxy and had great body language and continued to stifle the Tigers with their aggressive pressure defense. Tuebingen got some vital baskets by Idowu and Tention, but Koblenz didn´t falter, but punched back getting 2 vital baskets by Canadian Ben Stevens who played at Laurier (U) in Canada made a lay in and dunk and block to carry the Guardians in that phase to the 55-48 advantage. “He is another big body for us. He gave great energy and got big boards. He also did a great job altering shots”, expressed Ty Cockfield. Both teams executed well until the end of the third quarter as Tigers big man Vincent Neugebauer who averaged 14/9 in his last 2 seasons in the Pro B with Ehingen made a reverse lay up and dunk while the Guardians got a dunk form Poelking and lay in by Bradley. “We found the big men well attacking the rim. Our bigs slipped and rolled well and when we found it, we exploited it”, warned Ty Cockfield. The EPF Guardiands Koblenz shot 68% from the 2 point range and 43% from the parking lot and had 20 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the Tigers Tuebingen shot 52% from the 2 point range and 38% from the parking lot and had 19 rebounds and 14 turnovers. “They attacked the switches well and got too many easy baskets. Our 1-1 defense wasn´t good. We have to help our bigs more”, stated Miles Tention.

Sam Idowu from the parking lot

In the fourth quarter the EPG Guardians Koblenz continued to execute at a high level at both ends and never allowed Tuebingen to go get closer than 6 points. The Tigers began well getting 3 stops, but couldn´t get more than a Marvin Heckel basket to trail 63-57. The EPG Guardians Koblenz then went on a lethal 8-2 run to extend their league to 71-59. In the run it was the unstoppable Ty Cockfield who scored three times with his potent attack game. Kasey Draper who has a game similar to a Grayson Allen also scored. Cockfield showed his incredible 1-1 play and his team followed him and also contributed doing the little things with offensive rebounds and steals. The Tigers still had some fight and energy going on a swift 6-0 run to trail only 71-65 as Idowu found back to his outside game drilling home a trey and Heckel also connected on a trey to trail 71-65. Heckel finished with 11 points and showed real heart as his minutes have dropped this season as he comes from the bench, but he is still a team player first. “Marvin played great. He is a huge plus for us”, warned Miles Tention. Boehm then punched back with a clutch three pointer to extend the Guardians lead to 74-65. The Tigers didn´t hang their heads, but fought until the end getting a key three from Idowu and Heckel lay in and free throw to trail 78-73, but Leon Friederici slammed the door shut with free throws for the win. “We capitalized off their mistakes. We have 3-4 guys that can make big shots every game. Anyone can step up. It doesn´t always have to be me”, warned Ty Cockfield. “We gave up too many second chances. You have to almost play perfect to win”, warned Miles Tention. The EPG Guardians were led by Ty Cockfield with 17 points. Michael Bradley and Leon Friederici shipped in with 12 points a piece while the Tigers Tuebingen were led by Samuel Idowu with 25 points while Marvin Heckel contributed 12 points and Miles Tention added 11 points. The EPG Guardians Koblenz shot 56% from the field and 37% from outside and had 30 rebounds and 17 turnovers while the Tigers Tuebingen shot 47% from the field and 35% from outside and had 25 rebounds and 19 turnovers.

Elijah Jenkins (190-G, college: Embry Riddle) is a 190cm guard from Georgia playing his third professional season and third with DTV Basketball Koeln (Germany-Regionalliga). He began his basketball career with Riverwood high school and then played at Embry Riddle University (NCAA2) from 2017-2022 playing a total of 120 NCAA games. In his last 2 years he averaged 13.4ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 69.0% and 15.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 81.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after his monumental 42 point game.

Thanks Elijah for talking togermanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

Everything is going well, I’m enjoying life in Köln and grateful to be playing at Deutz again this season

You recently hit Hagen Haspe for 42 points. How good did it feel getting your pro high?

It was definitely a good feeling getting a win against a team that we’ve struggled against in the last couple of years. Playing well against a team like Haspe in an important away game for us is always a good experience.

How good is it seeing that Eurobasket title Elijah Jenkins was the second best scorer of the day in the world yesterday with the 42 points he had in DTV Basketball Koeln. How does that make you feel knowing you scored the most in the world?

Pretty crazy to be honest, but honestly just happy to help our team get the win.

It actually wasn´t your career high as in school you hit UAB for 44 points. Is it fair to say that you have always seemed to have been a player that can get very hot.

Yeah especially as someone who shoots a lot of threes, once you see a couple in a row go in, it gives you the confidence to keep shooting.

Talk a little about the 40 minutes of the game. How rapidly did you know that you might have a very good scoring day?

I don’t think I knew or realized until later in the game because I actually started somewhat slowly, and picked up more in the second half of the game.

The crazy thing is that you were only 1/7 from the 2 point range. How aware are you that you could have gone for 50 points with a little bit more accuracy.

Yeah I thought I missed some good midrange looks and some easy free throws as well, but 50 points would’ve definitely been a cool achievement.

You have had many high scoring games in your career. You hit 9 three´s. You once went for 11 three´s in the NCAA2. How vital is your three ball?

I think shooting has always been a calling card of mine, going back to my time in high school. Normally that also opens up space for me and my teammates to attack into to get some easier looks at the basket too. So definitely something that I’ve tried to build my game around by using that gravity to attract the defense’s attention and exploit the space and closeouts that creates.

The week before you hit BG Hagen for 33 points. Do you feel like maybe next week you will get 52 as the curve could go on?

I guess you never know, but I would say that when we have some guys back from injury, I likely won’t need to shoulder so much of the scoring burden again, or play 40 minutes for that matter.

What was your favorite bucket of the game?

Probably the three I made at the third quarter buzzer, where there was kind of a broken play and I ended up getting the ball with only a couple seconds left and needing to get a good look.

Will you have to buy dinner or get donuts for your teammates or pay them back another way?

Not that I know of, but maybe I should.

Thanks Elijah for the chat.