Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheineStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.
Congrats Malik on the big 91-84 win. How good does 5-0 feel? Feels good to be 5-0, but we also know we and continue to get even better.
The RheinStars controlled the game from the start, but Frankfurt never gave up. What impressed you most about the young German team?
They played very hard until the end, and they fueled off of the mistakes we made especially on the defensive end. Think they are a great young team.
In crunch-time, Frankfurt cut it down to 4 points. Was the individual qualities of the RheinStars the difference? We had a couple players make some big shots for us down the stretch also it was getting some key stops on defense that was a big help.
Ruppert Hennen hit 2 big shots at the end. Where would this team be without him?
Tough to say, he is our captain and a great point guard as well as person. He’s been with the team for a couple years so he knows what needs to be done to help us win.
How much fun is it to paly with big man Bjoern Rohwer?. How much of a role model is he for the young German players? It is a lot of fun playing with Bjoern he is a beast down low and can shoot. I enjoy being on his team not to many bigs like him in this league.
You had a solid game of 8/2/3/5 but shot 3/12. How content were you with your game?
Not content at all, I have to do a lot better and give more to the team. I know I’m capable of playing much better than that and have to show it.
Your finding your defensive game. How much more dangerous are the RheinStars with your energy on defense?
Yeah I felt I was doing as well offensively so I needed to up my defense. Coaching staff really emphasizes defense so I try to be aggressive and focused on that end. I think great defense translate to great offense and energy for the team.
The RheinStars next play the basketball Lowen. What will be key to getting the win? Sticking to our principles and playing aggressive on defense and play with a lot of energy for a full 40mins as a team.
Ian DuBose (193-G-1999, college: Wake Forest) is a 25 year old 193cm guard from North Carolina playing his fourth professional season and second with the Caledonia Gladiators (United Kingdom). Last season with the Gladiators he averaged 14.4ppg, 4.2rpg, Assists-2 (6.0apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 66.7%;and in the FIBA Europe Cup averaged 6.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 4.3apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 30.8%, 3PT: 15.4%, FT: 68.8%: BBL. In 2022-2023 he played with Team FOG Naestved (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 16.8ppg, 6.1rpg, 5.1apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 42.0%, FT: 64.3%. He played his rookie season with VfL Kirchheim Knights (Germany-ProA averaging 7.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg, in Nov.’21 moved to BK Geosan Kolin (Czech Republic-NBL) averaging 6.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.2apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 50.0%, 3FGP: 28.6%, FT: 28.6%, left in Jan.’22, later that month signed at GBA Fio banka Jindrichuv Hradec (Czech Republic-NBL) averaging 14.8ppg, 5.4rpg, 4.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 23.1%, FT: 64.8%. He began his basketball career at NC / Ravenscroft School and then played 3 seasons with Houston Baptist University (NCAA) averaging 12.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 62.0%, 17.0ppg, 5.9rpg, 3.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 43.8%, FT: 70.7% and in his last season averaged 19.0ppg, 7.3rpg, 3.8apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 77.5%. He finished his NCAA career at Wake Forest University (NCAA) averaging 10.9ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 59.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg.
Thanks, Ian, for talking to germanhoops.com. You were recently in Germany, in Frankfurt, for a test game and will play there again in the FIBA Europe Cup. What do you know in general about the country and its basketball?
Hello, thanks for having me! I know Germany is a nice country with a rich history in basketball. The top league in Germany, the BBL, is a very competitive league and well-respected all over Europe. From all I’ve learned, there is a lot of appreciation for the game of basketball here, and that shows in the level of clubs and talented players that have come from Germany. I’ve been here before to play games and always faced a good challenge.
You’re playing your fourth professional season and second with the Caledonia Gladiators (United Kingdom-SLB). Has Glasgow become like a second home for you? Yes, this is my second season with the Gladiators, and I’ve enjoyed my time here so far. The club, the supporters, and the city have truly embraced and welcomed me. Living and playing in Scotland has made my transition so much smoother and more enjoyable.
What do you appreciate most about the Caledonia Gladiators (United Kingdom-SLB) organization? The club last won a title in 2023 with the Cup. How big is the desire to win within this organization?
My initial draw to the Gladiators was the vision and ambitions the club had following that 2023 trophy final. I appreciated this hunger to grow and achieve more. After that trophy, the club had many goals, including playing in European competitions, building new facilities, and growing basketball in the UK. So far, all of these ambitions have been accomplished, and I’m privileged to be part of them. By re-signing, I wanted to build on this vision and help the club win consistently. The 2023 trophy set the expectations and standard that the club is working to achieve regularly.
The club has good scoring power. What is your main role on the team? Your minutes are down from last season.
On this team, my role is to play good basketball, lead by example, and help win in any way I can. Sometimes, there are things that are out of your control, and my job is to control the things I can impact to the best of my ability. This involves making plays on both the defensive and offensive sides of the ball. Everyone in the organization knows what I’m capable of on the court, and I want to maximize my impact every day.
Your assist average grew a lot in Denmark and last season. Were you always a good playmaker, or did that just come with time?
I would say I grew as a playmaker as I transitioned to becoming a professional player. I have always been able to make plays and the right reads, but I’d definitely attribute my assist numbers increasing to watching a lot of film, analyzing reads, and repping out those situations over and over.
What has it been like being teammates with veteran Trevond Barnes? Does he have a mentor role on the team with the younger guys? Trevond is a great player to have on the team. On the court, he has good size and versatility, which are hard to find. He is, first and foremost, a great teammate and a vocal leader. He shares all his knowledge of the game to help the team move forward. The younger forwards on the roster can especially look to him for advice.
What has it been like sharing backcourt duties with American Isaiah Hill? Have you been a mentor to him this season? It’s been nice sharing the backcourt with Isaiah. He’s a talented player—very crafty, with good pace and knowledge of the game. He is transitioning into the professional ranks and making strides in finding his way. As a teammate, I share all the knowledge I’ve learned in my career with him. He is very receptive to learning, and this trait will take him far with the talent he has.
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 193 cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player, who would best fit the description?
If I had to compare myself to an NBA player, I’d say I play similarly to Deron Williams. He was a bigger, stronger guard who could shoot, get downhill, and make plays. I know he’s retired, but that’s a good comparison for me. If I had to choose a current player, I’d say I model my game after Jrue Holiday.
You’ve always been a player who can fill the stat sheet. How big is versatility in your game?
I’d say versatility is a big part of my game. I’ve always been able to play and guard multiple positions. When I was younger, this allowed me to get on the court more, as the coach could use me in various ways. Going into games, my goal is to positively affect the game in as many aspects as I can.
You’ve always been a great scorer. Would you classify yourself now as a three-level scorer?
I’m definitely a three-level scorer. I scored a lot in high school, and in college, I developed even more of a knack for scoring. In college, I was at the top of everyone’s scouting report, so I had to be able to score the ball in many different ways to help my team. I like to get to the paint first to create an advantage, either for me or my teammates. Along with getting to the rim, my shooting ability has improved every year through repetition in the gym and growing confidence from all the work I’ve put in.
You’re also a very aggressive defender. How have you seen your game grow in recent years? What kind of defender do you still want to become? I feel I’ve always been a great on-ball defender, thanks to my athleticism, length, and physicality. I never had a hard time guarding the ball. I’d say my biggest growth as a defender has been off the ball, with my positioning, activity, and anticipation of plays before they happen. I want to be the kind of defender that offensive players have a hard time dealing with every night.
In what areas of your game are you working on most right now to continue improving? I’d like to continue improving my shooting and shot-making on the offensive side. On defense, I’d like to improve my off-ball positioning and activity. I think spending time in the gym and watching film will help me improve both aspects of my game.
Last season was your first one with the Caledonia Gladiators (United Kingdom-BBL), where you averaged 14.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 6.0 apg (2nd in assists), 1.6 spg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 66.7%. Was the win over London, where you logged 42 minutes and scored 23 points, your fondest moment of last season? Personally, that was definitely my best performance of the year. That game was a hard-fought battle against the London Lions, who at the time were a high-level EuroCup team, and it ended up going into overtime. In that game, I was able to make shots and plays down the stretch that helped my team ultimately get the win. I feel my full offensive game was on display, and I was in a great rhythm that night.
You played the 2022-2023 season with Team FOG Naestved (Denmark-BasketLigaen), averaging 16.8 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 5.1 apg, 1.5 spg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 42.0%, FT: 64.3%. You played an incredible playoff series against the top team Bakken Bears but lost. What will you always remember from that series?
I really enjoyed my season with Team FOG Naestved and had a great year playing there. Our team had a really successful regular season, and the chemistry we had was unmatched. In that playoff final, I was in a great flow and felt good about my play. We lost one of our top scorers, Mike McGuirl, in the first game of the series, and after that, I knew I needed to step up to give my team a chance to win. Personally, I played a great series against the Bakken Bears and displayed my full skill set on the court. I mostly remember how competitive and hard-fought each game was and how every detail mattered in the outcome.
You split your rookie season with VfL Kirchheim Knights (Germany-ProA), averaging 7.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 1.5 apg, and 1.5 spg. In Nov. ’21, you moved to BK Geosan Kolin (Czech RepublicNBL), averaging 6.8 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.0 spg, with 2FGP: 50.0%, 3FGP: 28.6%, and FT: 28.6%. You left in Jan. ’22 and later that month signed with GBA Fio banka Jindrichuv Hradec (Czech Republic-NBL), where you averaged 14.8 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 4.8 apg, and 1.3 spg, with FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 23.1%, and FT: 64.8%. How tough was your rookie season of moving around so much? What did you learn from the experience?
My rookie year was a very tough season for me, in which I learned many lessons. Being in the right situation is very important at the beginning of a pro career, and I had to learn that through experience. In this business, a situation can make or break a player. One thing it taught me was to be resilient, and that entire year is an example of my willingness to fight for my love of the game and to play ball. It showed me how tough I am in wanting to play the game I love. In the end, I found a team and city in Jindrichuv Hradec that I could call home, and I was able to display my abilities at the professional level. I am forever grateful for that opportunity in a respected league, which helped shape the player I am today.
What was your wake-up call to being overseas as a rookie, where you knew that you were far away from home?
I would say the wake-up call for me was early, during all the moving between situations and teams. At that point, I was fighting for my career as a pro, while being away from family and friends was really hard. But deciding to keep fighting for my career while facing adversity showed me how badly I wanted to be a professional.
You played at Houston Baptist University from 2017-2020 and improved your scoring average each season. How vital was head coach Ron Cottrell in your basketball growth during those three years? Going to Houston Baptist University was one of the best decisions for my basketball career and for my personal development. Coach Cottrell and his staff pushed me every year, allowing me to grow as a player. All of my coaches were extremely vital in helping me develop. They held very high expectations of me, and I had to meet those without any excuses. I put in a lot of work every offseason to grow and become a better player. Going into each season, I had the attitude of proving myself, which led to great personal success on the court.
In your second season, you led the team to a 93-91 win over Wake Forest. You had a big battle with Brandon Childress on the court and won. What memory will you have from this game?B
Brandon is a great player who had an impressive collegiate career. Actually, I battled with Brandon in high school, as we went to different schools in the same state division, so I was familiar with his game. I remember coming back to play in NC, and a lot of my family and friends were able to see me play after two years of being away from home, so I was excited to play in front of them. I came out aggressive offensively, and my shots were falling. At the end of regulation, we needed a 3-pointer, and once the ball ended up in my hands with one second on the clock, I knew I had a chance to force overtime. Once we got into overtime, my confidence skyrocketed, and I felt like I couldn’t miss after that shot. We ended up pulling off the upset, and it was one of the best moments of my collegiate career.
You scored 44 points in a win over Central Arkansas. Was that one of your biggest moments on the court at HBU?
That game was crazy for me! I didn’t even realize I had scored that many points until after the game. The best part was sealing the game with a win for my team. During the game, I was just in a great flow, getting to the rim at will and hitting my shots. The rim felt four sizes bigger that day. The offensive game plan was for the guards to attack their bigs as they switched often. I felt the matchups were really favorable for me, and that showed in the result.
You finished at Wake Forest University (NCAA), averaging 10.9 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 2.4 apg, and 1.4 spg, with FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 36.1%, and FT: 59.5%. You only played 11 games and were out for a few months. What positives did you gain from that season? Being able to play for Wake Forest and represent the Demon Deacons was one of the greatest honors of my basketball career. I met a lot of great people at Wake Forest and received my graduate degree while playing there. Playing in the ACC had always been a dream of mine growing up in North Carolina. As a child, I would go watch Wake Forest play Duke, Carolina, and NC State, and I was inspired to be on the court one day. To have the opportunity to be on that court was such a blessing. Once I got to that level, I was able to showcase my skills against some of the toughest competition in the country. I knew that I was a top player and that my game translated to the highest level, but being able to show that was the best part. Although I missed some time due to illness, I still felt that I was able to showcase what I could do at a very high level. Being in that environment of high competition helped my game grow. Learning to play with other talented players was a big step for me at Wake.
How vital was prolific scorer BJ McKie for the growth of your game?
I was super privileged at Wake to work under some great coaches. Coach McKie was a great player in his time, and as a coach, he was always willing to share his knowledge of the game. Being coached by someone who played my position and was an exceptional player was very beneficial. I was also fortunate to have Randolph Childress, a Wake Forest basketball legend, as a coach during my time there. I received a lot of great basketball advice and coaching that I still apply to my game today.
Who won a 1-on-1 in practice— you or Daivien Williamson? Surprisingly, I never played Daivien 1-on-1 while I was at Wake Forest. Daivien is a really good player, and I enjoyed playing in the backcourt with him at Wake. After this interview, I feel we’ll have to play now, but I’d definitely take myself to win that 1-on-1.
Who was the best player you battled in the NCAA who went to the NBA? The best player I battled against in the NCAA would have to be my freshman year when I was at Houston Baptist and we faced Miles Bridges in his sophomore year at Michigan State. They were ranked number 2 in the nation at the time, and the atmosphere in their arena was insane. Miles had the size and shot-making ability that we had no answer for at the time. Facing him was a real challenge.
Who are your five best teammates of all time?
I’ve had a lot of great teammates, so this is going to be a hard question to answer, and I might upset a few of my guys. I’ll mix players from both college and the professional ranks. I’d say Torin Dorn, Josh Ibarra, Mike McGuirl, Lukas Palyza, and Isaiah Mucius. I’ve been privileged to have some great teammates on all the teams I’ve been a part of, but these guys are the ones I probably had the most success with or were the most impressive to watch work every day.
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?
My personal NBA Mount Rushmore is definitely controversial. My top four players of all time would be LeBron James, Steph Curry, James Harden, and Shaquille O’Neal. Personally, all of these players in their prime were literally unmatched. I may be biased by my age, but that’s my list.
Who is your GOAT?
The GOAT conversation is such a tough topic, but I’d have to say LeBron is the best basketball player ever. His career as a whole is unmatched, in my opinion, with all his accomplishments and the longevity of his greatness. I think it’s unmatched. Also, him playing in the NBA with his son will be legendary and will solidify his unparalleled impact on the game of basketball.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?
I did see the sequel, unfortunately. I fully agree—they should have just preserved the original film and left the legacy of such a cult classic alone. I am a huge fan of comedy movies and strongly believe that sometimes sequels can hurt the legacy of great films. Eddie Murphy is a legendary comedian, and I still respect his work. Thank you for having me in this interview!
After a tough 4 point loss on the road at Coburg, the Skyliners Juniors wanted to return home and begin a new winning streak. However that was easier said than done as the powerful 4-0 RhinStars Cologne were in the house. Frankfurt came into the game sporting a 2-2 record and were looking to add on to their home winning streak while Cologne wanted to continue their win streak. Frankfurt had a very young team led by young guards Bruno Albrecht and Felix Hecker while the RheinStars were led by ultra veterans 2024 Pro B MVP Ruppert Hennen and Bjorn Rohwer (213-C-1995). The RheinStars were a scoring machine averaging 95 points per game while on defense allowed only 79 points per game. This season it´s not to difficult to scout the RheinStars as everything evolves around Hennen and Rohwer and it wasn´t any different this time as they combined for 42 points as the Skyliners Juniors had no recipe of how to control them as they led their team to the 91-84 victory. “We began very well, but later weren´t able to complete as good defensive execution anymore. We knew that they had good three point shooters, but we couldn´t contain that well enough. They did a good job coming back. It wasn´t easy playing there. The most important thing was that we won”, stressed RheinStars Cologne center Bjorn Rohwer. The Skyliners Juniors didn´t start well and had to play in the hole and catch up to the end, but they never gave up. They had their problems with the aggressive Cologne defense and allowed way too many turnovers to be able to get the win. “It took us some time to get used to their intensity. But in the second half we were at eye level. It was the small things that’s decided the game for us at the end. We had never played against such an aggressive defense this season, so we had to risk a lot”, stressed Skyliner Junior guard Philip Hadenfeldt.
Ivan Crnjac at the FT line
The Skyliners Juniors entered the game without Felix Hecker. Frankfurt got their three ball rolling early getting three´s from Ivan Crnjac and ex Hanau guard Bruno Albrecht. The RheinStars got 8 of their first 10 points from their dup of Hennen and Rohwer who had 2 buckets a piece and rapidly felt at ease in the BCM as they led 10-6. Frankfurt had problems matching the Cologne intensity and allowed them to run on transition. Cologne´s aggressive on ball defense forced Frankfurt too many early turnovers. Crnjac remained calm and aggressive and scored 4 points as he helped keep Frankfurt stay close trailing 14-10. Cologne stayed aggressive and attacked and attacked as Frankfurt let up a 8-0 run to trail 22-10. In the run Cologne got easy basket after easy basket as Canadian Deandre Brenard, Rohwer, Hennen and Marek Kotieno scored. Frankfurt´s defense was sloppy with little communication. Frankfurt tried to keep up and executed well on offense getting three´s from Bruno Albrecht and a lay in by Crnjac to trail 27-21. The second unit of the RheinStars gave good energy and support down the stretch as Kotieno scored twice and young German Luca Michels who scored 40 points against Itzehoe made a spectacular acrobatic shot that had everyone rubbing their eyes if they had really just witnessed that. “That was a wild shot. There was some luck involved with it”, stated Bjorn Rohwer. After 10 minutes the RheinStars led 37-26. “That may have been our best start of the season. We played quick and controlled the tempo well. We pressured well on defense and got into the passing lanes”, commented Bjorn Rohwer. The RheinStars shot 79% from the field and 0% from outside and had 5 rebounds and 4 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 67% from the field and 63% from outside and had 3 rebounds and 10 turnovers.
Malick Riddle to the hole
In the second quarter there was less scoring but the RheinStars Cologne still dominated the game and led by 14 points at half-time. The RheinStars got going right off the bat getting a quick trey from Mississippi native Malik Riddle, while Hennen made his bread and butter with an off balance jumper and a big dunk from Jannis Von Seckendorf, while Frankfurt punched back with baskets from Malik Kordel and Crnjac, but still trailed. Frankfurt found some daylight going on a 9-2 run as Dusan Nikolic scored twice and Bruno Albrecht kept drilling three´s as Frankfurt trailed 46-38. Albrecht´s three pointers gave Frankfurt energy, but Frankfurt just couldn´t make an impact on the defensive end. The RheinStars punched back with a 10-2 run to have the commanding 56-40 advantage. In the run, the guests continued to attack the rim getting simple buckets with a dunk from Von Seckendorf and an offensive rebound and put back from Rohwer. Frankfurt continued to cough up the ball as they had 6 more turnovers in the second quarter. Young 17 year old German Maximillian Peters came from the bench and hit a big three pointer, but Frankfurt just continued to play catch up basketball. Young 20 year Malick Kordel of Frankfurt had his hands full with Rohwer, but being able to battle him was great for gaining new experience. “I knew him from Iserlohn. He is talented, athletic and strong. I was able to make some easy baskets, but he definatley has potential”, warned Bjorn Rohwer. The guests led 59-45 at the break. The RheinStars Cologne shot 65% from the field and 25% from the three point line and had 12 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 65% from the field and 54% from the three point line and had 9 rebounds and 16 turnovers.
Dusan Nikolic to the rim
In the third quarter the Skyliners Juniors played their best basketball scoring 24 points and only trailed by 7 points after 30 minutes. Frankfurt began strong with a 8-3 run to trail only 62-53. Frankfurt was sparked by 2 Albrecht three´s while the defense stepped up as Kordel made a massive block on Riddle. But there was simply no stopping Bjorn Rohwer as he showed his inside out basketball making another easy lay in and three pointer while Riddle also made a three for good measure as Cologne led 70-58. Frankfurt just couldn´t get over the hump. Frankfurt never sunk their head as they continued to fight and were rewarded with a 8-0 run to trail only 70-66, Frankfurt got vital support from the bench and just made better decisions and found their spots better. Frankfurt attacked the rim very well getting lay in´s from Hadenfeldt, Peters and Fabian Baumgarten. But Frankfurt couldn´t keep the energy to the end as Hennen and Bernard made key baskets to add on to the lead despite Albrecht´s 8th three pointer to trail, 72.69, but after 30 minutes the RheinStars led 76-69. “Frankfurt moved the ball better and hit more three pointers. We played with less tempo and relaxed too much”, stressed Bjorn Rohwer. “We defended better and with more intensity. We always believed that we could come back. Albrecht hit big three´s. We really needed him with Hecker out”, said Philipp Hadenfeldt. The RheinStars Cologne shot 55% from the field and 33% from the parking lot and had 21 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 67% from the field and 56% from the parking lot and had 18 rebounds and 21 turnovers.
Deandre Bernard
In the fourth quarter the Skyliners Juniors continued to push and fight, but never trailed by less than 4 points as the RheinStars Cologne managed their lead well and executed well at both ends of the court to preserve the win. Crnjac and Bernard traded buckets and Frankfurt trailed 78-72. Then there were a few minutes of no execution from both teams which didn´t help Frankfurt in their comeback attempt. Tim Lang and Dusan Nikolic then traded baskets as Frankfurt trailed only 80-76, but as usual Ruppert Hennen was always spot on and Mr clutch as he made another bread and butter bucket with a runner and the 82-76 Cologne lead. After a Von Seckendorf lay in, it was Nikolic again who offered support with a dunk. He had a strong game finishing with 10 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, However Frankfurt just had no answer for Ruppert Henenn who casually waltzed down the right wing and nailed an open trey for the 87-78 lead as time was running low. “Ruppi is our captain and leader. He is our vocal leaders and one of the best point guards in the Pro B. He always has an eye for his teammates and makes my job easy”, smiled Bjorn Rohwer. Baumgarten made a lay in to trail 87-80, but Bernard and Lang sealed the win for the Rheinstars as they led 91-80. Albrecht made 2 baskets at the end, but it was too little too late. “The difference in crunch-time was our routine and experience. We remained calm and played with self-confidence”, added Bjorn Rohwer. “I think the individual class was the difference at the end. Hennen is like gold at the end. They are lucky to have a player like that who can make the big plays”, added Philipp Hedenfeldt. The RheinStars Cologne were led by Bjorn Rohwer with 24 points while Ruppert Hennen added 18 points and Deandre Bernard had 14 points while The Skyliners Juniors were led by Bruno Albrecht with 32 points while Ivan Crnjac had 18 points. The RheinStars shot 51% from the field and 31% from outside and had 32 rebounds and 16 turnovers while the Skyliners juniors shot 56% from the field and 39% from outside and had 32 rebounds and 26 turnovers.
Dejan Bruce (206-SF-2002) is a 22 year old 207cm forward from Weinheim, Germany that played withGartenzaun24 Baskets Paderborn (ProA) last season playing 27 games averaging 3.4ppg, 2.9rpg. In the 2022-2023 season he played with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (ProB) playing 24 games averaging 10.6ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 72.2%. He began his basketball career in Weinheim and then played in the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg system playing NBBL (U-19). He also played a season with CB Fuenlabrada Second Team (Spain-EBA) playing 14 games averaging 6.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 2FGP: 55.2%, 3FGP: 29.5%, FT: 59.3%, in Feb.’22 moved to BSG Basket Ludwigsburg (Regionalliga) playing 12 games averaging 9.3ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 55.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Dejan for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you? I´m in Weinheim now with my mom. Basketball life is good and I´m preparing for next season.
You made the jump last season from the Pro B to the Pro A and Paderborn. It was a tough season as the team moved down to Pro B. How tough was the season for you mentally with losing? It wasn´t a good feeling losing so much. But you can learn a lot even in a season like that. All in all, I wouldn´t say it was a disappointing season.
You averaged 3/2 in 15 minutes. Was there too much scoring talent there from especially Americans that took away your chance to really demonstrate what kind of talent you have?
I wouldn´t necessarily say that. I feel like I was missing the needed self-confidence and courage to try and show my game the way I know how.
How was the development period for you training with the other bigs? How did they challenge you best on a daily basis. There were 2 talented bigs with Lars Lagerpusch and Julian Roche. They did a really good job pushing me every day. They were really good teammates as well.
How does the future look like? Will you return to Paderborn? I can´t say exactly now. I´m looking now for the next opportunity and will do what is best for me.
In 2022-2023 you played with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (ProB) averaging 10.6ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 72.2%.Is it fair to say that this was your break out season?
I wouldn´t necessarily say that that was my break out season, but the season definitely helped me. Head coach Carl Mbassa gave me a lot of trust and I took advantage of it.
Was your 100-96 win against FC Bayern Munich where you scored 25 points and battled top player Ivan Kharchenkov one of your fondest moments that season?
Yes it was. It was a good ending to the season. We won an exciting game in overtime. I really read situations well and executed well. My shots were also falling better than usual.
After many years in Ludwigsburg, you played briefly with CB Fuenlabrada Second Team (Spain-EBA) averaging 6.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 2FGP: 55.2%, 3FGP: 29.5%, FT: 59.3%. What kind of an experience was that? Why did you choose the 4th Spanish league? It is always cool to play in another country. I got the opportunity after ANGT when a Spanish agent from Octagon saw me play and helped me get that job. I lived 40 minutes away from Madrid. I would visit Madrid and spend the day there on my off day.
How cool was it beating Real Madrid´s farm team in your first game in Spain and scoring 14 points. You played against future stars. The roster of Real Madrid 2 was full of future stars. It was a redemption of ANGT. The brother of Usman Garuba was on that team.
You began your basketball career in Ludwigsburg playing NBBL (U-19). How valuable were these early years in your basketball development? How did your game grow there? It was definitely a good step after having played only 1.5 years of basketball. Ludwigsburg is a known program very suitable for young players. They know how to develop young players and to help them with your goals. Ross Jorgenson was huge then helping me with the mental side and how to deal with coaches in general. David Mccray always pushed me and tried to help me show my best version.
You became really good friends with Ariel Hukporti and Tyreese Blunt there. But talk about other players there that had an impact on you? We were all like a big family. We all understood each other really well. Ariel and Tyreese became my close friends, but I also had a good relationship with the Patrick brothers, Lukas Herzog and Aenas Jung.
What memories do you have with your battles with George Cotoara. He made his way and had a good season in Romania last season. He came to Ludwigsburg around the time I came. I´m happy that he had such a good season in Romania after having injuries.
How tough was losing a NBBL season in 20-21. Do you feel like you were robbed of your basketball development?
That season was tough for all young players. We had no Pro B season either. 1,5 years was on ice. All you did was practice, practice, practice. You didn´t really know what you were working for. It was definitely different.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 207cm forward/center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? Paul George
You fill the stat sheet well for a big. Would you describe yourself as a modern day big man? I don´t see myself really as a big, but a wing. But I can play at the big positions. I´m versatile.
What kind of a defender would you call yourself now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I play defense with mentality. I´m a good defender, but can always get better. I want to become the absolute best version of myself.
On what areas of your game are you working on most as you continue to improve your game? After last season, I´m working most on my shot. But as a player you always work on everything.
Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA? Ariel Hukporti and Jeremy Sochan
Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time? Ariel Hukporti, Tyreese Blunt, Aenas Jung, Lukas Herzog, Juan Fernandez
What is your personal NBA and Euro mount rushmore of past or present heads? Lebron, James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Kareem Abdul Jabbar Jokic, Giannis,, Victor Wembanyama, Doncic
Jordan Skipper-Brown (199-F-1998, college: Murray St.) is a 26 year old 198cm forward playing his 3rd professional season and first with Trabzonspor Medical Park Basketbol (Turkey-TBL). Last season he split time with Hopsi Polzela (Slovenia-Liga Nova) averaging 15.4ppg, 9.7rpg, 4.3apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 55.8%, 3FGP: 42.9%, FT: 54.9%, in Feb.’24 moved to BK Astana (Kazakhstan-National League) averaging 7.3ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 61.4%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 75.0%. He played his rookie season with Stella Artois Leuven Bears (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 10,0ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 46.9%, 3FGP: 62.5%, FT: 69.2%. He also played with the Vancouver Volcanoes (TBL): averaging 10.6ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.2apg, 1.2spg, 1.6bpg, 2FGP: 57.9%, 3FGP: 14.3%, FT: 75.0%, then moved to Little Rock Lightning (TBL) averaging 9.9ppg, 4.6rpg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 64.3%. He began his basketball career with River Ridge High School and then played 2 seasons with McLennan Community College (JUCO) averaging 6.8ppg, 3.5rpg, FGP: 68.3%, FT: 71.7% and 11.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 65.5%, FT: 55.4%. He then finished at Eastern Illinois University (NCAA): averaging 6.7ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 64.9%, FT: 63.9% and 10.2ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 64.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 52.7%. He finished at Murray State University (NCAA) averaging 4.2ppg, 2.8rpg. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Jordan for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment? Currently in Trabzon turkey playing for Trabzonspor basket. The Basketball Life is always great.
You’re playing your third professional season and first in Turkey with Trabzonspor. How blessed are you to play for this great organization. What have you appreciated most of the club? I thank God for an opportunity to play with great teammates and an amazing coaching staff. This club is goal oriented on winning, the fans are fantastic and I’m playing with and against high level competition.
You played in the well respected VTB league last season, but didn´t put up big scoring. How confident are you that you can be an impact player in Turkey? Numbers aren’t everything. Sometimes it’s just not your night and when those nights occur, just do what you can to help the team win. There are some stats that don’t even get recognized but they contribute to winning plays.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 199cm guard/forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who best fit the description?
Shawn Kemp, Scotty Pippen, Ben Wallace, Dennis Rodman
You’re a guy that fills the stat sheet really well. Would it be a fair description to call you sort of a Swiss army knife?
Yes I would! My Juco coaches instilled that in all of us. Kevin Gill and Jamaal Green. McLennan created the backbone of my career. “It’s just work someone has to do it”.
You have shot the ball really well in Belgium, VTB and Slovenia and really been able to shoot over 40%. How would describe the development of your three pointer now and how far are you from being an elite shooter? I believe by the end of my career people might call me Skip Curry. Lol nah I’m kidding but I fixed a few things that separated me from not a shooter to a capable shooter. A lot more work needs to be done. Only time will tell.
Your also a menace on defense. How would you describe yourself as a defender now and where do you still want to go with your defense? I believe defense wins games. Like I said earlier you might not be able to dominate on the offensive end every night but defense travels. I can see myself playing at the highest level of basketball possible. That is the ultimate goal.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? I work on everything. There is nothing I do perfectly so everything can be fixed.
Last season you split time with Hopsi Polzela (Slovenia-Liga Nova KBM) averaging 15.4ppg, 9.7rpg, 4.3apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 55.8%, 3FGP: 42.9%, FT: 54.9%, in Feb.’24 moved to BK Astana (Kazakhstan-National League): VTB United League averaging 7.3ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 61.4%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 75.0%. How was the Slovenia experience? You had many monster rebound games including one with 17. You averaged almost 10 rebounds there. How did you make strides on the boards? If you want dunks you have to rebound the ball. Plus why would you ever give the opponent a 2nd opportunity chance to beat you?
How was the experience in the VTB league. You showed a bit of everything in your game including 5 blocks against Minsk. How did your game grow there? VTB was a great experience for me to learn and grow into the player I want to become. My game matured a lot faster due to Karvel Anderson and Markell Johnson. They gave me a lot of confidence and pointers.
You won the slam dunk contest in the VTB league. How challenging was it and what dunk will you remember most? The slam dunk contest was Crazy. Gym packed with loud supporters, bright lights and an opportunity to become a slam dunk champion. The dunk I’ll remember most is the one I never completed- between the legs off vert.
You played your rookie season with Stella Artois Leuven Bears (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 10.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 46.9%, 3FGP: 62.5%, FT: 69.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home? There were constant wake up calls like scenery, food and no Walmart.
Your season ended early and you finished back home in the TBL with Vancouver and Little Rock. You played 12 games and at least 1 team scored 100 plus points in each game. How would you call this experience? Is this pretty much every guy playing for themselves to get noticed? The TBL is a great up and coming league for anyone who believes in themselves. Don’t sleep on this league at all. There are pros on every team from different leagues. I had the opportunity to meet Coach Curt and Cal- Vancouver Volcanoes. Without meeting them my road to become pro would’ve been a lot more difficult. They allowed me to show my talent in Vegas the summer before my rookie year. If anyone in the PNW needs help. Find CURT & CAL!
You began your college career at McLennan Community College (JUCO) averaging 6.8ppg, 3.5rpg, FGP: 68.3%, FT: 71.7% and.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 65.5%, FT: 55.4%Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO has said that JUCO was a big grind, but they never regreted it. How was it for you? Junior College is an experience you’ll never understand unless you went thru it. I’ve built some of the strongest friendships I ever had in JUCO. 10205! It’s not for everyone but if you get thru it you’ll have a 98.9% chance of being successful in anything you do.
How important was head coach Kevin Gill in those 2 JUCO years. Your game grew. How did Gill help you most? Coach Gill shaped me into a basketball player. Before MCC I just played basketball. He taught me and many others what it really took to succeed. Coach and I bumped heads a lot my first year, but I was childish and hard headed. lt was an easy fix for him. I sat on the bench! At first I was mad and confused. Until I started watching and listening from the bench. Then when I got opportunity to touch the floor. I played the game the way he saw it. And I still play it that way. Gill when you see this. You were right!
You then finished at Murray State University (NCAA) averaging 4.2ppg, 2.8rpg. Your minutes were reduced to 13 less from EIU. How tough was this season? What positives could you get out of it besides winning a OVC title? From jump Coach Matt emphasized winning! He expected nothing less. Him and all the coaches gave us the tools and mindset to win everything we do. There isn’t one thing I can just point out because the whole experience shifted my career.
Was the win over USF at March madness where you had a 12/10 game in 18 minutes your fondest moment in the NCAA? That was a great moment but no. My favorite memory comes from team weights with Puckett or Morning breakfast in the locker room.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tevin Brown? EASY! Skip Curry
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Tevin Brown Markell Johnson Mack Smith Kj Williams Ty Gordon
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Dennis Rodman Lebron James Dr J Shawn Kemp Vince Carter
Nighael Ceaser (202-F-2000, college: Texas St.) is a 24 year old 202cm forward from Missouri City Texas playing his second pro season and first with ERA Basket Nymburk (NBL). He played his rookie season with Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 14.3ppg, Reb-1 (11.5rpg), 2.5apg, Steals-5 (1.8spg), Blocks-1 (2.6bpg), FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 73.5% and with the Rockhampton Rockets (Australia-NBL One) averaging 24.6ppg, 10.0rpg, 2.6apg, 1.8spg, 1.6bpg, FGP: 64.6%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 57.4%. He began his basketball career at Ridge Point High School and then played 2 seasons with Collin County College (JUCO) averaging 9.6ppg, 8.6rpg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 71.3% and 14.8ppg, 10.8rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 64.4%. He then played more seasons at Texas State University at San Marcos (NCAA) averaging 5.2ppg, 2.6rpg, FGP: 54.1%, FT: 67.6%, 8.5ppg, 4.9rpg, FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 64.0% and 9.6ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.0apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 22.6%, FT: 72.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Rasta Vechta.
Thanks Nighael for talking to germanhoops.. playing your second professional season with the ERA Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL). Before we talk about asketball please explain how your first name came about? Nigel is the usual spelling, but yours is different. Did your parents have something special in mind for that spelling? My dad name is Michael so they replaced the “M” with “N” and “C” with “G”
What ha sit been like coming from Houston to Nymburk? Last season you already had a small place and now Nymburk which is tiny. But the capital Prague isn´t far behind. Have you gotten used to the quainter lifestyle or are you in Prague a lot? It has been a great transition I just enjoy playing basketball. I am fine with the “quainter” lifestyle, I am a simple person, but I have visited Prauge a bit I think it’s nice the bigger city feel reminds me of home.
Your playing a BCL game against German team Rasta Vechta. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Have you had friends ball in Germany?
I do not know much about Germany as a country but I am learning as I go, but I do know the country is talented in basketball. I do not have any friends there.
Are you aware that Germany is world champion at the moment? I was not aware of that, I saw USA win the Olympics.
What has it been like playing for ERA Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL). It is almost always an automatic for this organization to win titles. Playing for ERA basketball Nymburk has been fun since the first day. The atmosphere is winning basketball and everything that goes into winning. I’ve heard they have won a lot but now I see why. I enjoy the playing style, my teammates, and all of staff.
What has been special for you personally so far playing for this organization. How do you feel that winning culture most? The special part is the winning and bonding with my teammates and coaches. I feel it most when we are not playing games, as in how we handle everything before practice during practice and after. There is great preparation, dedication, and rehabilitation.
You have needed no adjustment period coming from the weaker Finish league. You have solid stats in the minutes you get. Has your good play surprised you a bit? I mean you moved up levels and started to be consistent from the start. My good play has not surprised me, I rise to any competition put in front of me and excel.
The team has many talented players and are deep. Plus you have JT Shumate at your position. What exactly is your role on the team?
I am in the same position as Christian Bishop, but I believe my role on the team revolves around energy, defense, and using my IQ to be in the right place at the right time.
You have proven that your very efficient in the minutes you get. How much of your IQ can one credit for you being able to perform so well?
I credit my IQ to being a big part of my game. It leads me to not only rely on my athletic abilities but beat my opponent with my mind breaking down the game as well.
What is it like battling Christian Bishop on a daily basis? How do you guys make each other better? I love competition and I love going against someone I have to be locked in going against. We make each other better by using our skills which are similar but also different in aspects to prepare for other opponents such as my speed vs his Smoothness with the ball
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 202cm forward that likes Jimmy Butler and Paul George. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? I would compare myself to Obi Toppin with my athletic ability physically but also Jimmy Butler’s mentality and will to win
How would you describe your game? Is it fair to say you’re a player that can make an impact at both ends?
I would describe my game as a player that excels with whatever the coach needs being versatile. I am a player that can make an impact on both ends yes.
Talk about your strengths. What do you feel is your biggest strength on the court? Versatility has to be one of those? My biggest strength in this system is my versatility, quickness, and speed. Also being a smart player to be in the right position when needed.
You never took a lot of three´s and haven’t taken one yet. Do you hope to develop more of a three pointer down the road and add it to your arsenal?
I have a three point shot, and I am confident in it but I focus on what the team needs me to do and push for that. In the meantime I still work on shooting to be ready when the time comes.
You’re a very good defender. Talk a little about where your defensive game is now and to what level do you still want to bring it to?
My favorite part of the game is defense. My defense level at the moment is good but I want to bring it higher to where I can stop all positions and take out the best player on the opposing team regardless of the position.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve as a player? I am constantly working on my footwork, shooting and ball handling when I am in the gym on my time.
Last season you split time with Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 14.3ppg, Reb-1 (11.5rpg), 2.5apg, Steals-5 (1.8spg), Blocks-1 (2.6bpg), FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 73.5%
and the Rockhampton Rockets (Australia-NBL One) averaging 24.6ppg, 10.0rpg, 2.6apg, 1.8spg, 1.6bpg, FGP: 64.6%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 57.4%. You went from cold to warm. 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 as a rookie overseas was my first time experiencing real snow in Finland and having to adjust to a different style of living and dressing coming from Texas’s warm weather. Basketball has always been Basketball.
You really had a fine rookie season in Finland with many many double doubles and 2 games with 6 blocks. How did your game grow there? My game grew in Finland with my confidence and trust in my ability that I can make a good career out of this.
How was your Australia experience? Again you had a great season. What was it like being teammates with veteran Xavier Ford? Was he like a mentorfor you?
My Australia experience was great from the atmosphere, the weather, the fans and teammates. I got to see kangaroos and koalas for the first time. Xavier was and still is a great friend to me. He was the person I’d go work on my game with, learn from, and spend time with off the court. He is definitely a great mentor for me.
You began your college career at Collin County College (JUCO) averaging 9.6ppg, 8.6rpg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 71.3% and 14.8ppg, 10.8rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 64.4%. Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO said it was a grind, but an experience they wouldn´t have traded for anything. How was it for you? I would say the same thing. JUCO was enjoyable for me but at the same time it wasn’t a place I seen to get too comfortable in keeping the “get out” mentality. I made lifelong bonds with teammates and coaches I still cherish.
How did head coach Jim Sigona help you mature and be prepared for an NCAA career best? Coach Signoa helped me a lot. As coming from high school I did not start really playing basketball until the 10th grade. So I took that time with him learning the fundamentals and the inside of the game. I believe that’s where I learned a lot of my IQ for the game.
You then played at Texas State University at San Marcos (NCAA) form 2020-2023 and made strides in your last 2 years. What kind of a player did you become there? At Texas State I learned the art of hard work and the mentality of every little thing matters. Texas state taught me how to be able to live my life but also make time for the game I love making sacrifices to achieve whatever goal I set out.
You had many great games against Georgia South and Coastal. What was your fondest moment on the court? My fondest moment was winning the conference championships back to back.
How did head coach Terrence Johnson groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
No comment
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Nate Martin? There was no competition between us just a focus of getting better I learned from him as he learned from me.
Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Marcus Sasser
Spencer Svejcar (190-SF-1994, college: Alaska-Anch., agency: One Motive Sports) is a 29 year old 190cm guard from Colorado that is playing his 8th professional season and second with ERA Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL). Last season he with Nymburk he averaged 13.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 80.6%; and in the FIBA Europe Cup averaged 10.2ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 66.7%. he played his first 6 seasons in the Czech Republic with SLUNETA Usti nad Labem. He began his basketball career with Ralston Valley high school and then played 2 seasons with Laramie County Community College (JUCO) averaging 7.7ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 68.9% and in his second season averaged 16.0ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 79.1%. He then played at the University of Alaska at Anchorage (NCAA2) averaging 11.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 83.6% and 16.1ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 47.9%, FT: 84.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball champions League game against Rasta Vechta.
Thanks Spencer for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second season with ERA Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL). What kind of an experience has it been playing for this great organization?
It’s been a great experience. It’s a great town for my family and the club has been great to us. It´s obviously also great to play for such a historic club
How blessed are you to have landed in Nymburk? There seems to be a guarantee to win every season? I do feel blessed to be here, it’s fun to compete at high levels and compete for championships every year
Last season you helped win the league title. Is there a big pressure on the team to win? They are expected to win each season?
There is always pressure on Nymburk to win every season so I don’t think it’s something new for this club. We have high expectations every season and we work hard to meet or exceed those expectations. I wouldn’t say it’s pressure, but there is a certain level that we expect to play at consistently.
This is your 8th pro season and 8th in the Czech Republic. You have Czech roots. Has the country become like a second home? What do you enjoy most about the club?
Yes I have spent my entire career here. This country is definitely a second home for me and my family. My wife has been with me the whole time and we have our daughter in Czech school learning the language. It’s a unique situation for a foreigner but I feel very blessed to have had this journey
In the past Nymburk breezed through the season simply because the competition wasn´t as good. You have seen the league develop in the past years. Are teams catching up or will Nymburk always have that dynasty feeling?
I would like to believe that Nymburk will keep winning each season, but it has been good to see the Czech league grow like it has over the years I have been here. There has been a more competition to Nymburk in the last few years but with this year´s roster I hope and think we will get back to that Dynasty feeling and continue that for many more years
The team has 6 Americans. How talented is this year´s club and what exactly is your role on it?
I would say that this roster is the most talented that I have ever been apart of. But aside from the talent it is full of very hard working guys who understand what it takes to play at a high level. Both the domestic players and foreigners are relentless workers and that’s what allows us to play the style that we play. I am still coming back from an injury so I haven’t been able to be on the court full time with this roster yet, so it will be interesting to see what my role is once I return. I just want to help the team continue to win games
What has it been like being teammates with Ondrej Sehnal? He has experience and is a big talent. What have you appreciated most about his game?
It’s been great playing with Ondrej. We have become pretty close since last season, and he is a very talented player. It’s great for me as a shooter to play with such a great passer. I would say he is the best passer I have ever played with and I also love his competitiveness. He has a very bright future ahead of him in basketball
Let´s talk about your game. Your a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?
That’s a tough question. I have never like to compare my game to others. But I would say I can be very effective with scoring without being on the ball or taking too many dribbles. I will let others decide who to compare me to if they would like
You’re an incredible shooter, but what other assets does your game have? I worked hard to add other aspects to my game since I started professionally. I think it’s shown over the years that I can handle the ball more and more and make plays off the dribble. Shooting will always be my strength but I have added a lot of mid range shots and floaters to my game over the years which has helped open up my offensive game because I get chased off the 3 point line a lot. So being able to help create space in different scoring areas has been important for me
You shot 40% or better in JUCO and NCAA 2 and then 6 seasons under 40% and last season over 40% again. How would you talk about the development of your shot?
My shot has been the main thing that has kept my offensive game so consistent over the years, but it is something I had to work very hard at to develop and is something that I consistently work at. I think my greatest asset as a shooter is my ability to take and make many different types of shots. Stand still, off the move, off the dribble, going either direction. I have worked hard to get better at one of those things every offseason and that has helped develop my shooting ability. It is still something I have to work on everyday to keep my consistency. Some seasons my percentages are better than others but I always strive for 40% or better
Talk about how your defensive game has grown in the last years? What kind of defender do you still want to become?
My defense has evolved just from experience and playing at higher and higher levels. I want to continue to develop my aggressiveness defensively as well as my physicality. And with the style that we play here in Nymburk you really have no choice if you want to be on the court
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? I am always working on all parts of my game. But taking care of my body so I can be good defensively and continuing to score the ball consistently are my biggest focuses
You played against legend Petr Benda who played 17 seasons with Nymburk winning 26 titles. What one vital thing could you learn from him?
I think what I have learned most from Petr is how important consistency and routine is. I never got to play with him but I played against him a lot and have heard many stories. From what I hear he was a relentless worker who was very consistent with his daily routines which I something I try to emulate as much as I can
You played 7 seasons with SLUNETA Usti nad Labem. How did your game grow in this time? You showed an incredible offensive consistency in this time? I am blessed to have the coaches I had at SLUNETA over the years that had the trust in me to develop my offensive game. I took more responsibility on each season I was there that allowed me to grow my game. When you’re trying to develop as a player, it’s so important to have people around you who believe in you and trust you and that’s what I had in SLUNETA.
You were teammates with American Tucker Haymond a guy I covered many years in Germany. Did you have any shooting contests with him after practice? That guy can shoot.
I actually never got to play with Tucker. That was the year I had my ankle injury. But I watched him play and know what a great shooter and player he is
How vital was coach Antonin Pistecky for your early basketball development overseas? Coach Pistecky was very important to my development and will always be a special coach to me. He believed in me from day one and gave me many chances as a young player which I will always be grateful for. I don’t know if I am in the position I am right now in Nymburk if it wasn’t for Coach P. He did so much for me and he also is a great person. We still talk to this day, he really cared about his players
You played 2 seasons at Laramie County Community College (JUCO) averaging 7.7ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 68.9% and 16.0ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 79.1%. Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO has said it was a tough grind, but one they don´t regret having done. How was it for you?
JUCO was a grind for sure. But like the other guys, I don’t regret anything about those days. I think it helped shape my career. It’s takes a certain type of person and player to make it through JUCO but I was lucky to have great teammates and coaches during my time there. That’s also the place where my game first started to develop thanks to the great coaches I had
You then played 2 years at University of Alaska at Anchorage (NCAA2) averaging 11.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 83.6% and 16.1ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 47.9%, FT: 84.6%. You made a big jump in your senior year. How did your game grow?
I think the biggest jump my senior year was my confidence. The trust I had from the coaching staff from the previous season allowed me to be comfortable taking more shots and that led to a good offensive season for me. Also that summer from my Junior year to my senior year involved thousands and thousands of shots because I knew if I wanted to have a good senior year I had to have a consistent shooting year. I am lucky that it payed off
You had many games like against W Washington or Seattle Pacific. What was your fondest moment there?
I have so many memories of those years but some of the fondest are playing in the Great Alaska Shootout. The energy in the town during that time was great and always so fun for the players. We also played well in that tournament both years I was there, that was great experience I will always remember.
How did head coach Rusty Osborn help groom and prepare you for a professional career?
Coach Oz is another coach who I owe a lot to. He is the coach who probably developed my shooting and offensive game more than anyone. He taught me so much, not just physically on the court but mentally about being a shooter and the necessary tools you need and how to approach each practice and each game. He has so many years of basketball experience and I was lucky I got to play for him for 2 seasons. He was an outstanding coach and mentor for me
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Sekou Wiggs?
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Haha Sekou was a great player, we would always battle it out in shooting competitions in practice but if I am being honest he would get the best in me in 1 on 1. Not to say I never beat him but he was a really tough player to guard 1 on 1 so I think he got the better of me overall. But he was such a fun player to watch and to play with. Super talented guy
Who was the greatest player that you ever faced on the court that was in the NBA? I have played with some NBA guys back in the states. Derrick White, Jason Richardson, Jimmer Ferdette. There have also been so many talented players I have faced here in Europe that have gone on to play at very high levels. It was also great to get to know Vit Krejci and play alongside him with the NT. He is a unbelievable talented player and am happy to see him having success in the NBA
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? I don’t know if I can choose a top 5 with all the amazing teammates I have had over the years. I am just lucky to have played with guys such as Ondrej Sehnal, Jaromír Bohacík, Delvon Johnson, Tony Hicks, Ladislav Pecka, Pavel Houska, Filip Smid. I could go on and on about my favorite teammates but that would be too long of an answer haha I am also blessed to have played with the Czech NT and gotten to play with all those talented players.
Who is your GOAT?
My GOAT is Lebron James but that’s because I grew up watching him. If I was born in a different era that answer might be different but to me Lebron is the greatest
One thing one can´t say is that the Dragons Rhondorf haven´t been performing on the road. They have showed real nerves on the road as they returned back to the Dragon Dome with 2 wins. The only thing missing was having that first dub in their own living room. They were shell-shocked in the home opener losing to the RheinStars, but were also without 3 vital players. Despite the 2-1 record, there was some concern with the Dragons defense as they had let up an average of 106 points in the last 2 games. They had to be sharp for the Basketball Lowen as despite having a 1-2 record like the Dragons were an offensive powerhouse averaging 88 points per game with guys like Lyles, Albrecht and Kamdem, but defensively also had allowed more than 90 points per game in the season. Nothing changed on the defensive end as both teams had trouble not allowing points, but no team made 100 points. Sometimes even high scoring games can be exciting as both teams fought to the end, but the Dragons Rhondorf executed better and made a game saving stop to secure the 96-93 win as Tim Smith Jr. (201-F-2000, college: N.Alabama) made the winning shot and Lithuanian big man Danas Kazakevicius made 3 massive blocks in the fourth quarter to lead the charge. “I´m super proud of the guys. To be able to stay together and fight together despite making small mistakes was big. Danas Kazakevicius won us the game. He stepped up on the defensive end and got the crowd fired up and helped give us the needed energy and physicality that we needed so badly”, stated rookie Dragon Tim Smith Jr.. It was a bitter loss for the Basketball Lowen as they had the win in their hands, but a bad turnover in the last seconds cost them the game. “I feel like we did a good job showing character during slumps in the game. We fought until the end, but we made some defensive mistakes on the pick and roll”, stated Erfurt American Tyseem Lyles.
Danas Kazakevicius at the FT line
The Dragons Rhondorf received a real shock as the team announced before the game that Kelvin Omojola would miss the game as his calf injury came back to haunt him while Marko Rosic was out again. The Dragons had suffered a brutal blow out loss to the RheinStars 2 weeks earlier as their 2 main point guards were out. Young German Dyami Janeck got the nod and coughed up the ball in the first 2 possessions. But he would find his way better into the game. Both teams found their offensive rhythm rapidly as one noticed soon that defense wasn´t on the menu for the 2 teams. Rhondorf got baskets from game captain Antonio Pilipovic and a turn around shot from Tim Smith Jr., but Erfurt had answers as ex Skyliner Noah Kamdem made a lay in and Tyseem Lyles who was in a massive shooting slump connected to tie the game at 7-7. Rhondorf then went on a mini 4-0 run as Janeck made a lay in and Smith a jumper for the 11-7 lead. Erfurt was having difficulty finding calmness in their sets. But Lyles just continued to blast away hitting his second trey of the game. He was averaging only 11,0ppg coming into the game after averaging 19,0 last season, but this game would be his season break out. Both teams just continued executing as ex Rhondorf forward Paul Albrecht scored from outside as did Janeck from the parking lot to tie the game at 16-16. “Janeck was huge tonight. He brought a lot of energy. We just kept telling him to keep working hard. He is so fast and really no one can stay in front of him. I see it in practice all the time”, stressed Tim Smith Jr.. The mini game of runs continued as Erfurt went on a 5-0 run as ex Dragon Sam Nellesson scored form outside and Leni Kunzewitsch scored inside for the 21-16 lead. But Rhondorf fought back and got big support from 2024 u-18 Eurochampion Janne Muller as the Dragons Rhondorf had the slim 27-25 lead after 10 minutes. “They were going down hill on us and picking us apart. We stayed together and took the blows and returned runs”, stated Tim Smith Jr.. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 67% from the field and 60% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 5 turnovers while the CATL Basketball Lowen shot 73% from the field and 80% from outside and had 3 rebounds and 4 turnovers.
Tyseem Lyles from outside
In the second quarter the scoring continued to be the main course for both teams and Erfurt controlled the game, but couldn´t lead by more than 5 points. Erfurt went on a quick 7-0 run as Paul Albrecht made an old school hook shot, Kamdem an offensive rebound and put back and ex Jena guard Jan Heber with a trey for the 32-27 advantage. However the Dragons always had an answer as Pilipovic nailed a three pointer to tie the game at 32-32. However Erfurt just had more rhythm on offense as they cruised out on a 6-1 run to lead 38-33. In the run, the guests received 2 lay in´s from Alieu Cessay and Kamdem and an off balance shot from Paul Albrecht. Albrecht scorched his ex team last season for 32 points in the Dragon Dome and on this night was doing absolutely what he wanted and hitting much. “Albrecht was hitting shots that I had never seen before. Some were real old school shots. He was also making hook shots and the pick and pop”, stated Tim Smith Jr.. Erfurt had better team play and Rhondorf had problems with 1-1 defense. However the Dragons Rhondorf found a way back going on a 10-2 run to steal the lead back at 43-40. In the run, Janeck hit another big trey while ex Bayreuth German Marco Rahn made a lay in and Smith Jr was aggressive on the offensive glass with a tip in. Erfurt tied the game at 43-43 with Jan Heber free throws. However Rhondorf closed out the second quarter strong with clutch three´s from ex Skyliner Alexander Lagerman and lay in´s by Pilipovic and a spin move by Muller as the Dragons led 52-49 at the break. “We stepped up our defense more this quarter and had more intensity”, said Tim Smith Jr.. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 58% from the field and 60% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 8 turnovers while the CATL Basketball Lowen Erfurt shot 59% from the field and 67% from the three point line and had 12 rebounds and 7 turnovers.
Tim Smith Jr jumper
In the third quarter Erfurt got off to a rapid start and would lead by as much as 10 points, but the Dragons Rhondorf never gave up and fought back and trailed only by 2 points after 3 quarters. Erfurt began with a lethal 10-0 to lead 59-54 as Noah Kamden was a beast scoring twice, while Lyles added another trey and Cessay a lay in. Erfurt heightened their defense and forced the Dragons to tougher shots and were rewarded getting easy baskets. Erfurt just continued to play their game and keep that offensive rhythm as Kamdem scored 2 more times and totally dominated in the paint. Albrecht made his bread and butter with a running hook shot and Janne Muller continued to be consistent and was a real spark plug scoring 5 points, but Rhondorf still trailed 65-58. Kamdem continued to be on fire making another lay in and dunk, but the Dragons punched back and Muller and Janeck scored inside and Lagerman made a three pointer to trail 69-65. Both teams continued to play with much energy and were living off their adrenaline as it really didn´t seem like any team was tiring. After an Albrecht running hook shot that saw nothing but net, Tim Smith Jr. delivered again with 2 buckets to keep Rhondorf close trailing 71-69 after 3 quarters. “We were lacking intensity. Kamdem was dominant and we could move him away from the zone. He was shooting over 2 guys. Lyles was picking us apart with his three pointer”, commented Tim Smith Jr.. “They got a lot of free throws which stopped our momentum. Kamdem kept us in the game”, added Tyseem Lyles. The CATL Basketball Lowen were shooting 54% from the field and 47% from the parking lot and had 24 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 49% from the field and 47% from the parking lot and had 29 rebounds and 9 turnovers.
Paul Albrecht at the FT line
In the fourth quarter it looked like the CATL Baskets Lowen would break away as they led by as much as 6 points, but the Dragons Rhondorf just continued to chip away and fought and fought. Lyles began the fourth quarter with a trey for the 76-69 lead. Lyles added 27 points in the loss and was out of his slump. “I didn´t go into the game feeling like today was the day where I would break out. I went into the game wanting to have fun. I just feel blessed to be able to play the game and get paid for it”, warned Tyseem Lyles. But the Dragons Rhondorf were ready and struck back with 3 Smith jr free throws and a big transition dunk by Lagerman to deadlock the game at 74-74. But Erfurt continued to have more fire as they tried to break away again as Heber made a lay in and Lyles another trey for the 82-76 advantage. Kamdem and Mueller then traded buckets as Erfurt still led 84-81. Albrecht made a runner for the 86-81 lead. However then came the big time for Muller and Danas Kazekevicius. In a span of a few minutes Kazakevicius made 3 clutch blocks and Mueller a big 3 pointer as suddenly the game was tied at 90-90. “We always get on Danas to play off his butt and he did. He probably had more than 3 blocks. Muller played amazing. He hit tough shots and kept us in the game. He hit some shots that I never saw him make”, expressed Tim Smith Jr.. After a Kamdem offensive rebound and put back, Antonio Pilipovic that got a technical foul and Lyles made the free throw for the 93-91. Rhondorf made a giant stop and had the ball with 16 seconds. Tim Smith Jr. nailed a big three pointer for the 94-93 lead with 8 seconds to play. Aggressive Dragons defense forced a turnover against Erfurt in the inbounds and Smith Jr then sealed the win with free throws. “We wanted to get me the ball in the post, but my shot was actually off a broken play. I knew that after I missed the post up, that I just had to take it. I knew when I released it that it was going in”, warned Tim Smith Jr.. “We wanted to trap and go for the steal and if that didn´t work foul. I saw the ball was ahead of my teammate and I tried to help, but left my man leaving Smith Jr open for the shot”, said Tyseem Lyles. The Dragons Rhondorf were led by Tim Smith Jr. with 28 points while Janne Muller had 24 points while the CATL Basketball Lowen Erfurt were led by Tyseem Lyles with 27 points while Noah Kamdem had 23 points and Paul Albrecht 11 assists. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 49% from the field and 52% from outside and had 37 rebounds and 11 turnovers while Erfurt shot 50% from the field and 4 3% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 12 turnovers.
Jared Sherfield (198-G-2000, college: Lander) is a 24 year old 198cm forward from Alabama playing his second professional season overseas and first with the Bristol Flyers (United Kingdom-SLB). Last season he played with BKM Lucenec (Slovakia-Nike SBL) averaging 14.2ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 59.2%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 74.5%. He began his basketball career with / Paul W. Bryant High School and then played 2 seasons at Tennessee Tech University (NCAA) averaging 4.9ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1spg and 3.8ppg, 1.6rpg. He then finished at Lander University (NCAA2) averaging 10.8ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 75.0%, 9.8ppg, 6.2rpg, 3.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 80.6% and 12.7ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 65.1%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 79.3% in his last season. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.
Thanks Jared for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you? I am currently in my second year professional here in Bristol with the Flyers. I have already had some cool experiences with the organization and the community. I look foward into this being a really great season for us.
You’re playing your second professional season overseas with Bristol Flyers (United Kingdom-SLB). Is it like night and day compared to your rookie season in Slovakia? Now English is the main language again for you.
Of course, I am still grateful for the opportunity that Lucenec gave me to start my professional career off, but as always the goal is have a better situation the next year which I am fortunate to have. Bristol plays in a better league, and also have a lot of opportunities to win a championship. and thanks to my agent and Andreas for getting this done overall I can say I am in a better situation and have a lot more opportunities than the last.
You come from Alabama. What have you learned to enjoy most about the city Bristol? The english speaking lol but really just having another opportunity to showcase my talents and help the Flyers be the best version of themselves on and off the court. Bristol is a nice city, and everything I am grateful to be in such a great situation.
What were the main reasons for coming to Bristol? How important was being able to play in the ENBL league?
I wanted to be on a team that wants to win, and coach Andreas emphasized that was the main goal coming into this season while having a lot of opportunities to do so. playing in the ENBL is really big for not only myself but my team as well. We have a chance to go out and compete with some of the best teams in Europe and show that we belong in this just as much as them.
Your playing in 2 leagues this season including the ENBL league. How excited are you for added competition? What part of your game will shine most in this international league?
I am super excited to have the opportunity to travel more around the world playing this great game of basketball. This is a chance as stated earlier to showcase not only my talents but my teammates as well to show that we are deserving to be a member in the ENBL once again. I just want to go out and play my game and help the team win and the game will speak for itself.
What kind of an experience has it been playing with veteran Leslee Smith? Is he a little like a mentor for you?
Leslee is a veteran in the program and one of the captains on our team, he has helped me get familiarized with the culture that is set here and also just how things operate. He’s one of the leaders on this team and when he speaks we listen.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 198cm player. You’re a lethal scorer and rebounder and great defender, but what other strengths does your game show?
I can do a lot of things and I consider myself a versatile player that can play multiple positions, rebound, defend, shoot, playmaker and more.
You’re a really proficient rebounder. How has your rebounding developed since Lander? Have you always had great instincts or what else helps you be that great rebounder? ?
My coach Omar at Lander emphasized that he wanted me to be more aggressive with the offensive rebounding, I always was a good defensive rebounder but that kind of stepped my rebounding up just having that freedom with my length and etc. to go after more boards to help increase my stats or just giving my team another possession.
You’re a lock down defender. Are you already an elite defender? What do you have to do defensively now to keep getting even better as a rebounder? ? I wouldn’t say an elite defender but I have improved tremendously when it comes to that. I have to be in the right spots, help my teammates when needed, make sure we have great contests on the shooters and box out and crash the glass.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? Everything, I always look at ways to improve my game no matter what it is. The more I work, the more it’ll show.
Last season you played with BKM Lucenec (Slovakia-Nike SBL) averaging 14.2ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 59.2%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 74.5%. What do you remember being your wake up call overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? ? My wake up call for me was waiting till it was nighttime or evening to talk to my son. So the time difference.
You had a really potent spurt in your scoring around the new year 2024. How do you feel did your game grow best in Slovakia?
Just taking it one game at a time, not thinking ahead. I tried to be the best version of myself on and off the court. But my confidence grew each and every game and that helped me a lot
You began your college career at Tennessee Tech University (NCAA) averaging 4.9ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1spg and 3.8ppg, 1.6rpg. You played 51 games. You played for 2 coaches there. Did you get any positives out of it? Of course, I had the opportunity to play against some of the biggest programs in college basketball (Memphis, UNC, Michigan State, Tennessee, and Ole Miss) and my freshman year was the better experience and I felt I grew more during that season as well because I won Most Improved Player for the team.
In your freshman year in your fourth game you scored 7 points in a 50 point loss to top team North Carolina. What memories do you have of that game? What North Carolina player then stood out most? ? Hitting the 3 to end the first half and dunking was the memories that stood out the most, and a few players stood out not just one. They had a stacked team with Coby White, Cam Johnson, and Nasir Little, and more.
You then played at Lander University (NCAA2) averaging 10.8ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 75.0%, 9.8ppg, 6.2rpg, 3.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 80.6% and 12.7ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 65.1%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 79.3%. Your minutes doubled to Tennessee Tech and you averaged 31 minutes in the 3 years. How did your game grow there?
It grew a lot, believe it or not I had more opportunities at Lander, I was able to go to the NCAA tourney, play for a conference title and make all conference team 2x, scored 1000 points so just making that change and knowing and already having a relationship with Omar helped a lot.
You had many great games at Lander including a 31 point explosion against USC Aiken or a 1 point win over N Georgia with 13/7/5 game. What was your fondest moment on the court? ? Definetly the 31 points against Aiken because that was my career high game that got us to the conference championship and how I got my career high was a windmill that was an exclamation point.
How did head coach Omar Wattad groom and prepare you best for a professional career? ?
Omar has helped me tremendously from day one he has shaped me for this moment. one of the main reasons I went to Lander with him was the connection we already had since high-school. He’s been where I am and had many more before me get to the point aim at today and going to Lander with was one of the best decisions I could’ve made.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or DeAndre Robinson? We really never played 1s just competed in practice.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life anywhere on the court that reached the NBA? I have played a lot of people that’s in the NBA and it’s hard to just single out the best.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Jr. Clay Shamar Givance Kailex Stephens Dequan Moorer Dylan Robertson
Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore? Kevin Durant Lebron James Stephen Curry Michael Jordan
Who is your Goat and why? God is my Goat, but if you’re talking about basketball wise that’ll be hard to say. of course in my era I would have to say Lebron but growing up I always heard and talked about Michael Jordan so that’s what I went with but I’m a Kevin Durant fan.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? Unfortunately, I haven’t seen it.
Carlos Carter (197-G/F-1999, college: Shippensburg) is a 25 year old 197cm forward playing second season overseas and second in Germany and first with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Last season he played his rookie season with Munster playing 21 games averaging 6.7ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 70.4%He got his first pro experience with the Hub City Hogs (ECBL). He began his basketball career at Indiana high school and then played 4 years and 120 NCAA 2 games for Shippensburg University. He was able to improve his scoring and rebounding average each season and as a senior averaged 18.4ppg, 6.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 81.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 98-72 win over Dresden.
Thanks Carlos for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the big 98-72 win over Dresden. How vital was getting back on the winning track after losing to Crailsheim?
That win was very important. We know what potential we have as a team and where we want to be later in the season. The first half of the season is always important. At the moment we are taking it game by game. We definitely want to play our best basketball at the end of the season. Seeing the ball go in against Dresden was nice.
After winning the first quarter 20-19 Bremerhaven exploded for 34 points in the second quarter and took over the game. What did head coach Steve Esterkamp give for instructions going into the second quarter? Coach told us to stick to our principles and what we preach every day. We had some games where we had too many turnovers. A big focus is limiting our turnovers. We know that we can play good team basketball.
Bremerhaven made 8 three´s in the second quarter. How big of a weapon is the team´s three point shooting? Many guys stepped up? Yes three point shooting is a weapon of ours. We may not have the biggest or strongest players, but we have great shooters. We have many guys that can shoot at a high percentage. We have 4 guys that can stretch the floor at all times. Three´s will be dropping this season.
Bremerhaven did a super job managing the lead in the third quarter and was up 72-52. How proud were of the team´s defensive effort. What is the team´s biggest defensive strength and how much potential does it have?
Coach stressed going into the third quarter to have constant on ball pressure and be in the gaps. We play that style of defensive ball. We got some steals that led to easy transition baskets and three pointers.
Bremerhaven closed out the game well scoring 26 points. The offense seems to be gelling better and better from game to game. Are you pleased with how the inside out game is developing?
We play good team basketball. Everyone gets touches. The team is gelling better and better. All that matters is that the ball goes in and we win.
Have you been surprised how Dresden has started this season? They are known for discipline and good team play. Are they still finding themselves? They have a really interesting unit. I think the difference in the game was that our matchups were superior and it just didn´t work in their favor. We had better athleticism and shooters. I´m sure that they will figure it out. They are a solid fundamental team.
The team is now 2-2. On what areas do you have to tweak most on to get over 500? I think in games this season, bad decisions and shot selection cost us in crunch-time. But these are things we can fine tune.
How much fun has it been playing with the potent point guard duo of Elijah Miller and Peter Hemschemeier. What have you learned to appreciate most about their games? They are both very intelligent on the court. They always know where everyone is supposed to be and make good reads. They also always know what the defense is doing. We try to follow in their foot steps with our games.
What kind of a special and added dimension does Marquis Collins give the team at both ends of the court? He is a shooter for us. He is still new to the game overseas and came late to the team. He is a great player that brings energy. I really like to play with us. We relate well to each other on and off the court. He is only a few hours away from where I come from.
Your playing your second season in Germany. What has it been like coming from Munster the city of the bikes to the pretty sea coast of Bremerhaven?
It is more relaxed in Bremerhaven. In Munster there was a different crowd. There were a lot of younger people, college age and parties going on. There were too many off court distractions. In Bremerhaven there are no distractions. I have more time to focus on my game and it´s more professional here.
What have you enjoyed most about the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven organization? Does it have that family atmosphere? Both programs were very welcoming. I still have a lot of love for Munster for taking a shot on me. I love the energy in Bremerhaven. It makes it so much better when you see so many people smiling each day.
What have been the main differences in the coaching styles between Gotz Rohdewald and Steve Esterkamp?
Esterkamp has his own style. He is the definition of a player´s coach. He is very understanding and has his own enthusiasm. He strives everyone to be 1% better each day. I like that. He may yell at you, but if there is no yelling then it seems like you don´t care. He wants to see you be great. Rohdewald was also a great coach, but his style doesn´t fit everyone. I prefer Esterkamp´s style.
You were injured for months last season in Munster. How are you feel now? I am 100%. I had an interesting injury. So far all is good. I´m taking it day by day and hope to play a full season injury free.
After getting major minutes at Shippensburg (NCAA2), you are now getting less minutes again? Are you getting to having that different kind of role as a pro in comparison to when you were in school? It has been a major adjustment. You have to understand that one has to play a role at the pro level. It is what you make of it. You have to do your job and be efficient as best as you can. If you do that then you will get minutes. I take advantage of every second on the court. It´s not about me, but all about the team.
What is your role this season with the Eisbaeren? Is it different than in Munster? Your averaging 3 minutes more than last season? I´m the glue and flow guy- We have enough scorers coming off screens. I´m a silent assassin. I take pride in what I bring to the table.
What is your main goal this season as a player? What kind of a player do you want to develop into this season? I´m working on becoming a good decision maker. I also want to shoot at a higher percentage from outside. I also want to keep getting better as a defender and take advantage of my size and athleticism. I would like to average 1-2 steals per game this season.
Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Marquis Collins? We have never played. But I would take it.
German Hoops 