college-basketball

Kedrian Johnson(Bristol Flyers) Is Focused Most On Pick And Roll Reads To Be Able To Make The Next Step

(Photo by Rogan/Bristol Flyers)

Kedrian Johnson (190-G-1999, college: WVU) is a 24 year old 190cm guard from Dallas, Texas playing hiss econd professional season and second with the Bristol Flyers. Last season with Bristol he averaged 15.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.0apg, Steals-3 (2.0spg), FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 79.3%; and in the ENBL averaged 11.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 77.8%. He began his basketball career with South Oak Cliff High School and then played 2 seasons with Temple College (JUCO) averaging 25.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 4.3apg, 3.7spg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 77.8% and : 25.5ppg, 5.4rpg, 5.4apg, 3.4spg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 84.1%. He then moved to West Virginia University (NCAA) averaging 5.1ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.7apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 22.9%, FT: 75.3% and: 11.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.1apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 82.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against German team Bamberg Baskets.

Thanks Kedrian for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second season overseas with the Bristol Flyers (United Kingdom-SLB). What kind of a experience has it been playing for this organization? How special is this organization?

The experience has been amazing/ this organization is extremely special just for the simple fact how it has grown so much over the last 20 years and now playing European Competion

You come from Texas. What have you learned to enjoy most about the city Bristol?

Just the culture in full enjoying the nice whether when we have it and enjoying people I haven’t been a big people person all of my life but I’ve leaned to enjoy the people I’m around and being kind to others

What were the main reasons for staying in Bristol? How important was being able to play in the ENBL league?

The relationship that I have with Coach has played a big part in me returning and I felt wanted to and not just needed here in Bristol and the European competition also play a big part in my decision because it will be very important as I go into each summer planning to elevate

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?

Super excited about the experience two years in a row I think my play making ability will show the most this season since last season it was mostly scoring for me so it would be different how teams will see this season while still scoring

You are playing a ENBL league game in Germany against Bamberg. What do you know in general about the country and its basketball/teams/players?

At the moment I know nothing about the team or country but I’m familiar with a couple players Kyle Lofton which I played in my final college season which he is a good point guard as well as Noah Locke which they were teammates and he’s a great shooter, Also had my experiences playing against Macio Teague during his last season at Baylor. Never played against Ronaldo Segu but he’s been a house hold name for years so it will be excited taking the court against them

What kind of an experience has it been playing with veteran Leslee Smith? Is he a little like a mentor for you?

It’s been great since day one. Me and him actually talk quite a bit from a basketball perspective and he tells me the things that I need to do to help this team win as well as myself he’s an amazing vet to have around

If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

De’aaron Fox


How has your game improved from playing in the NCAA and the UK?

I’ve matured as a scorer and point guard since making the jump from college I’m able to attack angles a lot better instead of creating my own and I’m shooting the ball from behind the 3 in my eyes better than I did in my college days while being the same defensive edge

Coach Andreas Kapoulas described you as a versatile guard. How big is versatility in your game?

Versatility is huge in my game because basketball in becoming a position less sport as the time goes by so being able to play multiple positions and being able to have multiple skills to bring to the table is very important

What are main skills you’re working on to take your game to the next level?

I’m currently taking on a full time point guard position so my pick& roll reads are very vital to take my game to the next level that’s what I’m focused on the most at the moment

Your also a very potent defender and was third in steals last season in the UK. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I’m a great on-ball defender as well as off the ball I truly feel if it was for my injuries I would’ve led in steal in the BBL last season but now I just focus more so on my rotations and positioning on the defensive end I plan on being in Defensive player of the year conversations when the time comes

Every guy I have interviewed that have played JUCO and many have stated that JUCO was really tough, but an experience they wouldn’t have traded for the world. How was it with you?

For me my JUCO experience wasn’t tough I would say it’s more so a struggle because you don’t have nearly the same accommodations as D1 programs but it is definitely an experience I’m glad I went through because it helped me grow as a person as well as a basketball player

How vital was head coach Kirby Johnson in your early basketball development? How did he prepare you best for West Virginia?

I can’t speak highly enough on Coach Kirby He had extreme confidence in my which allowed me to play with that high level of confidence and freedom he helped me become the All-Time leading scorer in Temple College history just by believing in me from day one

How did your game grow after making the move from JUCO to West Virginia?

My game expanded after going to West Virginia I became more of a scorer I actually learned how to play the point guard position and became an even better teammate and defender

You were teammates with Miles McBride in your first year. What memories do you have of him and did you sense his path may lead to the NBA?

I definitely could sense he would be an NBA player after playing with him one season. It showed in practice everyday and every game he was literally unstoppable

You reached March madness twice, but I can imagine the 67-65 loss to Maryland where you had 27 points is a game you will never forget? Describe what it was like in that game.

That was a game that I just didn’t want to be my last I felt that I couldn’t miss and everything was going my way that night although it was my last collegiate game it was my best offensive game played in my West Virginia career

What are some of the schools you enjoyed playing against most? What players did you enjoy coming up against?

I loved playing against Kansas State which they had a great point guard in Markuis Nowell which we always a great matchup also UAB had a great scoring point guard in Jordan Walker I enjoyed guarding

How did head coach legend Bob Huggins groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He made me relentless and forced me to give 110% day in and day out

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Taz Sherman?

We never really played a solo 1v1 game was more so king of the court of the type of game which he would always win

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life anywhere on the court that reached the NBA?

I would say Markuis Nowell which is a smaller guard but finds ways to scorer along side having high assists numbers and steals

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Duece McBride, Derek Culver, CJ Massinburg, Erik Stevenson, Oscar Tshiebwe

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, MJ, Steph Curry, Kevin Durant

Who is your GOAT and why?

Kevin Durant, for the simple fact in my eyes he is the best scorer to touch a basketball and can score in a variety of ways

Thanks Kendrian for the chat.

Michael Bradley(EPG Guardians) Lives By The Motto Put In The Work And Never Cheat Yourself

Michael Bradley (185-PG-2000, college: NKU) is a 185cm point guard that was born in San Antonio, Texas and began his basketball career at Cornerstone Christian Academy and then played at Naval Academy Prep School. He then played at Mercyhurst University (NCAA2) from 2019-2023 playing a total of 101 games and improved his scoring average each season and in his last season averaged 14.9ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 86.3%. He added a season at Northern Kentucky University (NCAA) averaging 10.2ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 82.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketballl late last summer.

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

Yes sir of course, Thank you for taking the time to reach out and interview me. At the moment I am still located at Northern Kentucky University training and preparing for my upcoming rookie year. Life is treating me very well, God has blessed me to be in this position and the support around me has been nothing short of amazing.

Congrats on signing with German pro A team EPG Guardians. How excited are you to be starting your pro career overseas?

I am very excited. I almost feel like very excited is an understatement. This is something you dream of all the time as a child and to see it come to life is a very surreal feeling.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Have you had any friends, ex opponents or teammates play in Germany?

In general I know that Germany is a beautiful country, and the fans care a lot about the basketball played there. I have had a few former trainer and teammate play in Germany’s ProA League. My trainer David Jones played for many years in Germany and had a very successful career, and my former teammate Melkisedek Moreaux played two years in the Pro A league and recently signed to the top league in Germany.

What were the main reasons for joining the EPG Guardians? What was the deciding reason that made you pick this organization?

The biggest reasons I decided to sign with EPG is the opportunity they gave me to fulfill a lifetime dream. They are very family oriented, and being a part of a club that is very close was important to me. Lastly is the amazing fan base, and the opportunity to have a very big 24-25 season.

How did the talks go with head coach Marco Van Den Berg? He likes your floor leader qualities and character. What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

The talks with Coach Marco went great, he laid out his expectations and what he sees us being able to accomplish this year as a club and that is big things. During our conversation I appreciated his passion and knowledge of the game. He is an experienced Coach who puts a lot of trust in his players, and also can help me learn and develop to become an even better Point guard than what I came in as.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 185cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

The two players who have been very influential to my game over the years are Tony Parker and Chris Paul. Both of their games are a great balance of finding their teammates and getting them involved along with picking and choosing their spots when to score.

You’re a floor general that can score and find your teammates. What other strengths does your game have?

I would definitely say some other strengths in my game are both my shot making ability and my ability to make plays in the open court.

You also have good percentages from outside and the free throw line. How would you classify your three point shot development in the last years? What kind of a shooter do you still want to grow into to?

My three point shooting over the years has come from staying in the gym consistently. I would describe it best as I had to figure out what worked for myself along with never being satisfied continuing to find unorthodox ways to improve that part of my game. I still want to grow into a better two guard, despite being a point guard having the ability to play off ball is very key for me so I will continue to work on it.

You’re also a very ambitious defender. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

As a defender I would describe myself as intense. I enjoy getting after It on that side of the ball. Constantly looking for opportunities to make a play for my team. The kind of defender I want to become is one that can guard any position and ultimately making the opposing player take the toughest shot possible every possession.

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

The one major area I am working to improve is my finishing around the rim, at the next level I know that will be very important. Also continuing to become a better shooter off the dribble, making shots consistently at the highest level.

You played at Mercyhurst University averaging 14/4/3/1 in your last season. What memories do you have in this time? How instrumental was Gary Manchel in your development there?

It’s hard to single out only a few times during my years there, Mercyhurst brought me some of my closest friends on and off the court. I learned how to be a competitor there and also how to be a true team player as well. Coach Manchel was very key in all of that, he challenged me everyday on both sides of the ball and ultimately gave me a foundation on what it truly takes to win at a high level.

You then played one season at Northern Kentucky. You had many great games like scoring 26 points against Oakland. What was your fondest moment at Northern Kentucky?

I would say my favorite memory from this year was definitely beating Wright State in the conference tournament. This year alone has brought me so many memories, but it always feels good to walk into someone else’s arena and get a road win especially during the most important part of the year.

How did head coach Darrin Horn give you that added push and help you prepare for a professional career?

Coach Horn and staff gave me that added push by teaching me how to work like a professional. As simple as it sounds they reminded me everyday no matter what “put the work in and never cheat yourself”. Ever since then that is exactly what I have done, everyday I show up ready to work and get better.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Josh Dilling?

We haven’t got the chance to play against each other yet since this is his first year at Nku. However we were on the same team for an open gym we had, and he can shoot the ball with the best of them’. Nonetheless being the competitor I am, if we were to play of course I got to go with myself.

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

Enrique Freeman by far, he is a big man that played for the Akron Zips this past year. All around great player but what separates him in my opinion is his motor.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

This is in no specific order at all but I would have to go with Stephen Cannady, Marques Warrick, Melkisedek Moreaux, Miykah McIntosh, & Sam Vinson.

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

Kobe Bryant, Stephon Marbury, Lebron James, & Chris Paul.

Who is your GOAT?

My goats are definitely my parents, without them I personally don’t know where’d I’d be in life without them. They kept me on the right track growing up and supported me working for this dream since day one.

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

I have not seen the sequel, but I do feel that they should’ve left it alone. Especially with the sequel coming so many years later.

Thanks Michael for the chat.

The NCAA Helped Benjamin Schroeder(basketball Lowen Braunschweig) Become A Tougher Player Mentally And Physically

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Benjamin Schroeder at the 2019 NBBL/JBBL top 4 in Jena

Benjamin Schroeder (201-G/F-2003, college: GWU, agency: Octagon Europe) is a 21 year old 201cm swing man who is playing his first season with the Basketball Loewen Braunschweig (BBL). He began his basketball career with FC Bayern Munich and won the 2019 JBBL (U-16) title. He then played with TSV Oberhaching Tropics Deisenhofen (ProB) in 2020-2021 averaging 11.9ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 25.9%, FT: 64.9% and in 2021-2022 played with Internationale Basketball Akademie Muenchen (NBBL) averaging 26.8ppg, 7.5rpg, 3.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 24.5%, FT: 72.4%. The last 2 years he played with The University of Oklahoma (NCAA) playing 6 games averaging 2.3ppg and last season played with The George Washington University (NCAA) playing 20 games aveaging 4.2ppg, 1.8rpg. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

Hey, thanks for inviting me! Currently, I’m on my way to a training camp with the German A2 national team. We have a tournament in Melilla next weekend, and I’m really looking forward to it.’ve been putting in a lot of hard work over the past few weeks to get in shape for this event. It’s always a great honor to play for Germany.

After 2 years in the NCAA and 26 games, you have returned back to Germany. When looking back was the NCAA experience one that you regretted? Do you wonder where you might be today had you remained in Germany and had 2 years of pro experience under your belt?

Absolutely no regrets whatsoever. Overall, it’s been an incredible experience, especially on a personal level. Playing college basketball has always been my dream, and now that it’s come true, I don’t question whether I’d be here if I had stayed in Germany. It’s all about making the right decisions, and I firmly believe that joining Braunschweig and competing in the BBL are the best steps forward for my professional career as a player.

Braunschweig is an organization that has developed young players well and where young guys get minutes. What other factors besides this appealed you to the organization?

The first professional game I ever watched as a young boy was Braunschweig vs. Bayern, featuring a rising star in Dennis Schröder and a young Nils Mittmann, who is now the General Manager in Braunschweig. Now, the circle feels complete, and I have a strong intuition that joining Braunschweig is the right move for me.The meetings and conversations have been very open, and I had a fantastic impression from the coaching staff during my training sessions there: JESÚS RAMÍREZ, KOSTAS PAPAZOGLOU, and LIVIU CALIN are all renowned for developing and nurturing young players. I just returned from a week of intense off-season training there, and I’m eager to follow in the footsteps of those who came before me, while putting in the necessary work at this professional level.

Head coach Jesus Ramirez is an up and coming coach. How did the talks go with him? What did you appreciate from him right from the start?

What really resonated with me as a player were the candid conversations I had with him. He emphasized that nothing would be handed to me, but he also laid out the path forward if things align as we hope and I put in the necessary work.

After playing 26 NCAA games, what kind of a player are you today in comparison to what kind of a player you were in 2022 when you headed to the NCAA?

I feel like I’ve become a much tougher player, both mentally and physically. Overall, I’ve performed well despite the cards I’ve been dealt. I’m sure it’s boosted my mental game a lot, and it’ll show once I find a role that really suits my style of play. Speaking of numbers, I’ve packed on 10 kilograms and am way more athletic than I was in 2022.

How excited are you to be playing with Sanada Fru again? You guys have been teammates in the youth national teams over the years. What have you learned to appreciate most about his game?

I’m excited about teaming up with Sananda again. We had an incredible synergy last year when we represented Germany at the FIBA 20 and under European Championships in Crete. What really sets his game apart is his versatility as a tall center—he’s not only a strong inside presence but also adept at creating shots and scoring from various positions on the court.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

Certainly, Kobe Bryant is someone I deeply respect and admire for his relentless work ethic and scoring prowess. Among today’s players, I see Ja Morant and Jayson Tatum as the ones who best embody those qualities and skills that I find inspiring and impressive.

You’re a very versatile player that can fill the stat sheet with ease. What other main strengths does your game incorporate?

I also see myself as a strong defender and someone who can facilitate plays for my teammates.

Your three pointer continues to be a work in progress. How have you seen your development of your shot the last 2 years in the States and what kind of steps do you want to make this season in the easyCredit BBL?

I’ve dedicated a significant amount of effort to improve my three-point shooting. Working closely with Stefan Weissenböck has been instrumental in refining my shot mechanics. In this off-season, I’ve put in a lot of work and repetition in my workouts, so I’m hopeful that my progress will translate into performance in the upcoming season.

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

When it comes to defense, my aim is to be versatile enough to guard all positions, a crucial skill for advancing in my professional career. My ultimate goal is to emulate the reputation of a well-rounded two-way player, much like Kobe Bryant was known for.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now, so you can continue to improve as a player as best as possible?

I focus heavily on improving my three-point shooting, as well as honing my one-on-one skills, speed, and creativity. In Munich, I’ve been fortunate to work with a dedicated team for several years now: Matthäus Woitaschik enhances my agility, stabilization, and flexibility, while Patrick Taubert focuses on my strength and muscle development.

You played 6 games for the Oklahoma Sooners and came injured. How tough was this season? What positives could you gain from the season?

The season before last season was quite challenging for me as I underwent meniscus surgery right before it started. Despite the setbacks, there were some positives. Visiting Oklahoma was a unique experience that I appreciated. On the court, I managed to make an impact whenever I played, often contributing points and creating memorable highlights. Staying connected with my teammates has also been a positive outcome from that season.

You then played 20 NCAA games at George Washington averaging 4,2ppg and 1,8rpg in 11 minutes. What memories do you have of this season?

Reflecting on this season brings about a mix of emotions for me. Washington, D.C. is a wonderful city, and GW is renowned as one of the best universities in the US. However, I didn’t feel valued or understood as a player, and the promises made during my recruitment didn’t come to fruition. Being relegated to a role where I stood in the corner without involvement in the game was not fulfilling for me. It’s never easy when promises from recruiters aren’t kept, which was a significant factor in my decision to leave right after our final game in New York, despite having three more years of scholarship left. It’s not just about the competition, which I’ve never shied away from, but more about how I was treated and respected as both a player and a person.

You had good games against Stonehill, Coppin State and Bowie State. What was your personal favorite game at GWU?

It was really the first game where a touched the ball the first time and – believe it or not – hit a nice three point shot.

You began your career at FC Bayern Munich. You achieved so much success winning the U-14 and U-16 titles. Do you ever wonder where you might be had you remained longer with FC Bayern Munich?

It was a great experience that I will always be grateful for. However, the question never really crossed my mind because I was determined to play college basketball at that stage.

How important were your early years with FC Bayern Munich? What coach there had the biggest impact on you? Possibly Florian Wedell?

Absolutely, Florian was an excellent coach, and I’m genuinely happy for him as he takes on the role of head coach at Bayreuth next year. I also have fond memories of Steffen Hamann and his valuable advice on shooting in a relaxed and effortless manner.

That 2019 JBBL team was so special. It had so many great players like Sebastian Hartmann, Maxwell Temoka, or Alex Anigbata. Was there a teammate then that had the biggest impact on you?

Absolutely, that year we were a truly special team, and I haven’t experienced anything quite like it since. I still maintain close friendships with many of the players, and it wouldn’t be fair to single anyone out because each person contributed to creating unforgettable memories with the team.

In 2020 you went to FC Bayern Munich youth rival IBAM. Why did you make that decision?

IBAM had a very good reputation for placing players in the NCAA, such as Oscar da Silva, Tristan da Silva and Isaiah Ihnen, to name a few. The recruiting process and the offers from many well known colleges in the USA showed me that it was the right decision to start a college career.

You played 2 years for Robbie Scheinberg. How did he help you best in your basketball development?

I’m incredibly grateful to Robbie for giving me the freedom to showcase my full creative and scoring potential, which played a significant role in my subsequent recruiting process with US colleges. His support had a profoundly positive impact on my journey.

In 2021-2022, you played 3 games against your old team FC Bayern Munich in the NBBL. What memories do have of those 2 tough playoff loses?

While losing important games is always tough, what stands out most to me is the incredible crowd at the Audi Dome. We had over 1000 people watching our youth game, which I believe is still a record in Munich. At the end of the day Bayern was the better team in both games.

You had a season in the pro B with Oberaching for Mario Matic. What memories do you have of Matic? He gave you a lot of freedom.

Mario is a great coach and I just turned 17 when I joined his team which gave me the opportunity to play basketball during Corona because Oberhaching plays in the ProB in Germany. The thing I remember and appreciate most is that he gave me confidence, decent playing time and I scored quite well.

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

I really remember Brandon Miller, who now plays for the Charlotte Hornets and was the 2nd pick in the draft. We played Alabama and to everyone’s surprise we won the game! He is a very talented and tough player.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Mike Rataj

Sanada Fruh

Florian Schröder

Tjark Ladermacher

Jonas März

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

LeBron James, James Harden, Kevin Durant, Magic Johnson and Larry Bird

Who is your GOAT?


Lebron James

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

Yeah, I’ve seen the sequel. It’s like when you’re at the barber shop there and decide to try a new style. Sometimes it works out, sometimes you realize the original look was just right. But hey, you never know until you give it a shot.

Thanks Benjamin for the chat.

Brandon Thomas(Artland Dragons) Wants To Remain Consistent And Feels No Pressure To Still Have To Bring It At Age 40

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Brandon Thomas in Frankfurt in 2024

Brandon Thomas (198-SF-1984, college: UMass, agency: Interperformances) is a 40 year old 198cm forward playing his 18th professional season and fourth season with the Artland Dragons. He has played most of his pro career in Germany having played with teams like Jena, Giessen, FC Bayern Munich and Braunschweig. He also played in countries like Argentina, Lebanon, Puerto Rico, Spain, Denmark and Austria. He began his basketball career at Judson high school and then played at Long Island University (NCAA) and UMass (NCAA). He spoke to germanhoops.com after the 106-96 win over Bayreuth.

Congrats on the huge 106-96 win against Bayreuth. Artland is 2-0. How good does it feel starting this well after last season?

It feels unbelievable. It is a lot different this season. Last season was one of the worst start for many of us. With this start we feel very hopeful. We feel very strong. This season is so different.

After a good defensive game against Nurnberg, Artland opted for a shoot out win. Is this years team unpredictable?

At the moment we are trying to figure out our identity. We are very versatile and have many options. That is dangerous. We rely on different guys on different nights. WE are hard to scout. That will be a real advantage for us.

You led 57-53 at the break which could have easily been the score after 3 quarters. Was this just one of those days where defense wasn´t on the menu? Was it that tough guarding the 3 line? They hit 16 three´s

It is still early in the season and we are focusing on defense. We obviously didn´t want to give up so many three´s, but they had capable shooters. We did a better job in the second half. It is all a matter of concentration. It was nice to score, but our deefnse needs to be better.

In the third quarter Callum Baker-Magnaye got hot. What made it so difficult to contain him?

He is a good player that can drive and shoot the ball well. He was one of their main guys. We had trouble locating him in transition. He had a great game.

Bayreuth went on a run in the fourth and made the game very exciting. Robert Oehle made a shot and you made a trey. Did that shift the momentum in your favor?

Yes I think it did. That was a dagger. Who knows how the game may have gone had it gone 5 minutes longer. We are very fortunate to have many veterans and a talented point guard that can make plays in crunch-time. That sealed the win for us.

What was key in the last few minutes for holding the lead. Was this the best defense that Artland played down the stretch?

That is hard to say. I felt like we had good stretches in the game where we defended well. We have to learn to put it all together for 40 minutes

How key were the 23 free throws and 12 offensive rebounds? Was that the team´s back bone in the game?

It is always great to score more free throws than the other team. Plus getting more extra opportunities off offensive rebounds is always key.

How key is Buzz Anthony in general? Could he become the leagues best all-around point guard?

I believe so. He is everywhere on the floor. He does so much for us. He is a key player for us.

Is the word beast correct for Tajh Green. When you see his game what NBA player comes to mind?

I don´t like making comparisons. He is his own player. He can jump, and shoot and makes very exciting plays. He is willing to learn. He makes big plays on the defensive end. He is very versatile and just tough to stop. I´m really excited to be able to play with him.

How valuable is it having another physical big man coming from the bench with Robert Ohle? He just seems to keep chugging along year by year?

Robert is so strong and is just the ultimate professional. He is always in the weight room and still willing to work on his game even at his age. I think he sets the best screens in the league. He is an important part of our team.

How vital was Joanic Gruettner in the win. He recovered from a goose egg against Nurnberg to 10 points against Bayreuth.

He does the little things and is like a glue guy. He makes plays and is our best on ball defender. He may not score one game, but will be that offensive threat the next game.

Just how much of a true leader is Yasin Kolo. I think this may have been the team´s best pick up this season?

He is another veteran presence for us. He has so much experience having played in Japan and the BBL. He really understands the game. He is so big and strong and hard to stop under the basket. He was a great pick up for us.

Taylor Johnson was a late addition. What has been your impression of him thus far?

Taylor is relentless. He will do anything to win. He is a great shooter and on transition. Plus he is a great scorer.

You had a great game with 18 points. How is your 40 year old body holding up with 29 minutes?

I feel great now. I work hard during the summers so I´m best prepared for another season. I´m fit and feel good mentally. I´m trying to be the best leader possible and at the end of the day just trying to help win games.

With this start you must feel even more motivated. Does your inner-self ever pressure you to have to consistency even at age 40?

I want to always be as consistent as possible and yes that pressure to be a leader is there. I want to perform well and be reliable in some way. I enjoy pressure and am so fortunate to still be playing. The pressure is nothing for me.

What has been the secret of the early success? Some guys went and there seemed a bit of turmoil weeks ago. But now it seems like all are on one page?

It is hard to say since it´s still so early. We are just trying to keep improving each week. Our first win wasn´t pretty so we looked at the game and tried to improve. We won again last weekend and are trying to improve this week. We have great guys who want to get better. I hope the winning continues.

How dangerous is it not to get too euphoric with the start? Is head coach Vincent Macaulay keeping all down on earth?

He is keeping all down to earth and he has the veterans helping him. It is very dangerous if you get to complacent and comfortable. Adversary can always set you back, so just try to do your best to avoid it.

What has been his biggest coaching strength so far to get through adversary early and begin 2-0?

Vincent is very vocal and lets everyone know how he envisions the game. He doesn´t have that typical coaching style that you see in Germany. He loves excitement and just understands his players and how to get them on the same page.

My buddy Joe Asberry was very truthful and told me he wouldn´t be able to beat you in a 1-1 game. How vital is his presence for the young and old in the organization?

Joe is doing a great job. He has so much positive energy. It is really refreshing. He just makes everyone feel so good. He is a consistent presence. He is always there. It is a joy to have him here and I´m glad that he is here.

Thanks Brandon for the chat.