Ben Stevens (207-F-1999, college: Laurier) is a 26 year old 207cm forward from Canada that is currently playing with CEBL team Montreal Alliance and recently finished his season with the EPG Guardians Koblenz (PRO A) averaging 5,0ppg and 5,5rpg after starting the season with KK Vardar Skopje (FYR Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 11.2ppg, 11.7rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 54.4%, FT: 33.3%,. In the 23-24 season he split time with 3 teams with Serhedci PIK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL): 13 games: 12.5ppg, Reb-2 (11.7rpg), 1.5apg, FGP: 53.0%, FT: 37.9%, in Mar.’24 moved to BK Nova Hut Ostrava (Czech Republic-NBL): 20 games: 5.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 2FGP: 54.8%, FT: 34.2% and palyed with the Central Coast Crusaders (Australia-NBL One) averaging 16.8ppg, 12.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 40.9%. He began his basketball career with the South West Slammers (NBL One) averaging 18.0ppg, 12.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.4spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 8.3%, FT: 41.3%. He began his basketball career with Halifax, NS / Grammar High School and then played at Laurier University (CIS) from 2017-2023 playing a total of 113 games and as a senior averaged 9.9ppg, 8.9rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.3%, FT: 44.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.
Thanks Ben for talking to germanhoops.com. You began the 24-25 season and played briefly with KK Vardar Skopje (FYR Macedonia-Prva Liga) playing only 6 games averaging 11.2ppg, 11.7rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 54.4%, FT: 33.3%. Why was your stay so short and what positives could you get from those few months?
My contract got bought out to move to Koblenz. But in Skopje, I had a leading role, which really helped me grow my post game.
You got experience playing down under with Central Coast Crusaders (Australia-NBL One, starting five): 11 games: 16.8ppg, 12.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 40.9%. What of an experience was that. What was your coolest experience there? I loved playing for the Central Coast! Great club and group of guys. My favourite experience was off the court! I really enjoyed our end of season celebration. I also learned how to surf over there which was pretty cool.
Last season you split time with Serhedci PIK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL) averaging 12.5ppg, Reb-2 (11.7rpg), 1.5apg, FGP: 53.0%, FT: 37.9%, in Mar.’24 moved to BK Nova Hut Ostrava (Czech Republic-NBL) averaging 5.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 2FGP: 54.8%, FT: 34.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being in Europe where you knew that you were far away from home?
My wake up call was the first home game at Serhdci when the arena was jam packed and the Azerbaijan Army came to support us! It was such a cool experience.
You finished the season in the Czech Repulic and played playoffs against top team Nymburk. What will you always remember from that series?
That series was tough for us as we were battling a lot of injuries. Nymburk is a great team and we just didn’t have the manpower to compete. It´s always fun to play against the top teams.
How exciting was that incredible 5 games series against Opava where you won game 5 86-85? What will you always remember from that last game?
That series was unreal! playing in front of those huge crowds was great, drums pounding the entire game and just constant cheering. The home gym in Ostrava is always great to play in as the fans are always there to support. The game winning shot from mike was a surreal moment, we couldn’t have asked for a better ending.
You got your first experience down under with the South West Slammers (NBL One) averaging 18.0ppg, 12.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.4spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 8.3%, FT: 41.3%. You had great stats and totally different than at Laurier. How valuable was this first pro team for your development as a pro?
That was big for me. At Laurier, I wasn’t the go-to guy, but in Australia, I had to be. That role helped shape my identity as an import and prepped me for the pro grind.
You had a 24/21 game down under. Did you feel like Kevin Love? Absolutely! That was my first-ever 20/20 game and it felt great.
You played at Laurier University (U Sports) from 2017-2023. How do you remember these years? You reached 2 OUA semi finals. Were these years some of the best in your life? My time at Laurier is something I will remember for the rest of my life. I made friends that I will keep for a lifetime and some of the most fun I’ve had in my life. I honestly learned how to play basketball there, it’s where I became a man.
You played 5 seasons with the great guard Ali Sow who has played in Germany before. What memories will you always have of him? I´m sure he helped you win a few games on his own? Ali is an amazing player, he was the reason we won most of our games at Laurier!
You had many great games at Laurier. What was your greatest game and experience on the court? At Laurier my greatest game was in my second year against Ryerson in the OUA semi final. That one will be one of my top basketball experiences, even though we lost the whole school was out for that game and I had a huge dunk!
How did head coach Justin Serresse groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Coach Justin taught me how to carry myself like a pro, how to prepare, how to work, how to lead. Looking back, I probably should’ve listened even more, because he definitely knew what he was talking about.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Majok Deng? Me all the time haha
Who the toughest player you battled that reached the NBA? I played against Jamal Murray in a scrimmage a few times, he is at a different level.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? Chuder Tenny, Kemel Archer, Kareem Elliot, Ali Sow, Adnan Begovic
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Jordan, Giannis, Curry, Lebron, Kobe
Ben Stevens (207-F-1999, college: Laurier) is a 26 year old 207cm forward from Canada that is currently playing with CEBL team Montreal Alliance and recently finished his season with the EPG Guardians Koblenz (PRO A) averaging 5,0ppg and 5,5rpg after starting the season with KK Vardar Skopje (FYR Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 11.2ppg, 11.7rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 54.4%, FT: 33.3%,. In the 23-24 season he split time with 3 teams with Serhedci PIK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL): 13 games: 12.5ppg, Reb-2 (11.7rpg), 1.5apg, FGP: 53.0%, FT: 37.9%, in Mar.’24 moved to BK Nova Hut Ostrava (Czech Republic-NBL): 20 games: 5.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 2FGP: 54.8%, FT: 34.2% and palyed with the Central Coast Crusaders (Australia-NBL One) averaging 16.8ppg, 12.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 40.9%. He began his basketball career with the South West Slammers (NBL One) averaging 18.0ppg, 12.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.4spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 8.3%, FT: 41.3%. He began his basketball career with Halifax, NS / Grammar High School and then played at Laurier University (CIS) from 2017-2023 playing a total of 113 games and as a senior averaged 9.9ppg, 8.9rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.3%, FT: 44.4%. He spoke to eurobasket about his season with the EPG Guardians Koblenz.
Thanks Ben for talking to eurobasket.com. Congrats on the massive 91-73 win over PS Karlsruhe. How good is it to be able to say “The Guardians remain in the Pro A”?
It’s a huge sigh of relief and honestly just an incredible feeling, for us as players, for the fans, and for the whole organization. Staying in the Pro A means everything.
The team was 1-16 after the Trier loss. Was that the absolute down point of the season? Did you ever think that the team could win again? The Trier loss was rough, but the real low point came after the Dresden game at the start of the new year. We had just brought in two new guys, felt like momentum was shifting, and then took that loss. That’s when the hope really dipped.
Did the team finally feel the sense of urgency to win after the Trier loss? The urgency really clicked in when we played Jena at home. That’s when things started aligning, Coach Vennilin implemented his system and the pieces began falling into place.
I can say that the EPG Guardians saved their best basketball for the last 2 games where it counted most. Why couldn´t the team play like this more often in the season?
I think we played tight for too long. Once we loosened up, trusted each other, and played freely, everything started clicking. That trust turned into chemistry, and it showed.
What was it like playing against Maurice Pluskota again? Do you feel like the team would have won 2-3 games more had he been on board from the start? Funny enough, the last game was actually my first time playing against him. He’s a talented player, no doubt. But honestly, I don’t think his staying would’ve changed the outcome of our season.
The Guardians led 55-33 at the break against PS Karlsruhe. The team played no hero ball, but great team basketball. How much fun was seeing and participating in great basketball? That’s the type of basketball we wanted to play all season. When we shared the ball and everyone got involved, we were at our best. It was pure fun, everyone feeding off each other’s energy.
How confident were going into the third quarter that there wouldn´t be a major let down? I was feeling good. We knew they wouldn’t roll over, but the vibe in our locker room was strong, we were locked in.
In the second half the EPG Guardians Koblenz managed the lead well. How vital was it having only 7 turnovers? Usually when teams went on runs, it was because the Guardians produced many turnovers?
That was everything. Turnovers had hurt us all season. We knew protecting the ball and getting stops on defense was the key to holding that lead.
How key was William Lee for staying in the league? He began great, then had 4 really poor games and then 4 strong games including 34 points against Bochum Will was huge for us in those last games. He fought through an ankle issue early on, but when it mattered, he stepped up. His 34-point game against Bochum? Massive.
How was the celebration after the game? Was it calm or a little crazy? After we won against Bochum we definitely celebrated ! Winning that game meant a lot to us.
It wasn´t a great season for the EPG Guardians. What did you personally learn from the season? In seasons like this you need to take away the lessons from it. For me personally I learned how to deal with the ups and downs of not playing well and reduced minutes to taking on a bigger role and stepping up when the team needed me.
You played with a great player with Ty Cockfield. How great was getting fed the ball from him? What did you enjoy most about his game? Ty is a true scorer! He’s a great player and it was a pleasure playing with him.
What was it like being teammates with Dominique Johnson? Did some of his unbelievable energy rub off on you? Dom was a leader through and through. His experience and voice were key in those final games. He definitely brought the spark.
Talk a little about bigs Moses Poelking and David Bohm. What could you soak up from their games?
Moses has some crafty post work, I definitely stole a few of his moves! David’s got that classic Euro game, and it was fun to watch and play alongside both of them.
Who do you feel was the most improved player on the team this season? Dami, no doubt
You averaged 5/5 in 17 minutes. How would summarize how you played with the EPG Guardians? I would say solid for the minutes that you got? I saw myself as an energizer, coming in grabbing boards, throwing down dunks, giving us a spark. When I got more minutes, I contributed with post-ups and defensive plays. I tried to stay ready whenever my number was called.
How challenging was it getting minutes and being efficient? You played as much as 28 minutes and as little as 6 minutes? Definitely. Playing 28 minutes one game, then 6 the next, it’s a challenge. But it taught me a lot about staying mentally ready. You never know when you’ll be called upon, and you have to perform even when cold.
After getting new experience in North Macedonia and Germany, how do you feel did your game grow as a player this season overseas?
This season gave me a major confidence boost. I grew in a lot of ways, but the biggest thing was realizing I belong here I can play at this level and contribute.
You had many really good games, but what was your personal best game as a Guardian?
That Jena game in March. Even though we lost, I had a double-double and was really active on defense. You could feel the team coming together under Coach Vennilin.
Who was the toughest big man that you played in the Pro A this season? The big from Trier Maik Zirbes. I think he’s a EuroLeague vet. You could feel the experience in his game.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Moses Poelking? We had some battles. He got me a few times, I got him a few. Call it even.
Ike Smith (193-G-1997, college: Georgia South) is a 27 year old 193cm guard from Gainesville, Florida that completed his fifth professional season and first with Gornik Zamek Ksiaz Walbrzych (Poland-OBL) averaging 12,8ppg, 4,4rpg, 3,2apg and. Last season he played with Elachem Vigevano 1955 (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 15.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 58.1%. He played with Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga) from 2021-2023 avergaing 21.5ppg), 7.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 22.4%, FT: 73.8% and in his second season avergaed 19.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 3.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 70.6%. He began his basketball career at / Gainesville High School. And then played at Georgia Southern University (NCAA) from 2015-2020 playing a total of 133 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Ike for talking to germanhoops.com. You keep moving up leagues after paying your dues in Finland. How has the grind been for you? What has kept your energy going to keep moving up the basketball ladder? The grind has been great. I enjoy coming to work everyday and getting better. The goal for me is to play at the highest level in Europe so that’s my motivation on moving up the ladder
You played your fifth pro season and first with Gornik Zamek Ksiaz Walbrzych (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the experience? Playing in the OBL has been a learning experience but fun. I struggled earlier on due to some injuries but now I feel like I’m in great rhythm
The club was holding it´s own fighting for the #1 position. What has been the secret to the success?
The secret to success for us has been our work ethic everyday. We get after one another everyday in practice. It’s very competitive
You recently won your first chip with the Polish Cup. What was the finest memory of that run? The best memory would have to be Toddrick´s game winning shot! Those are the moments you dream about
The team has a lethal trio of Alterique Gilbert, Todderick Gotcher and yourself. What have you appreciated most about their games? I appreciate the most their intensity. They always get us off to a good start to games with their energy
Last season you played in the Italian Serie 2. This season your playing in another top league in Poland. How would you compare the 2 leagues. Many have said that the Italian league is one of the best 2 leagues in Europe. Which would you say is best in competitiveness and skill level of the players? I agree that the Italian league is one of the best 2nd leagues in Europe. Both leagues are very physical. I would have to say that the competitiveness and skill level was higher in Italy
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?
That’s tough, but I’ve gotten some Demar Derozan comparisons. He uses a lot of different footwork techniques to score at a high level & I do the same.
You’re a player that fill the stat sheet very well. How big is your versatility in your game? I think my versatility is the best thing about my game. I have the ability to score in many different ways. I could also defend multiple positions
You shot 39% in the NCAA and 35% in Italy. What do you have to still do to reach the 40% plateau? I believe work ethic & confidence will help me to reach the 40% plateau
How would you describe your defensive game now in your fifth season? To what stage do you still want to reach to make the next level as a defender? I think I underestimate how great I could be on the defensive end. I have the size, length & strength to be a great defender. I want to be one of the best defenders in every league that I play in
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? Free throws are the weakest part of my game. I leave so many points out there not converting my free throws.
Last season you played with Elachem Vigevano 1955 (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 15.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 58.1%. It wasn´t a great season, but you were consistent with your play. What did you learn from this season and how did your game grow? Playing in Vigevano I was one of the primary ball handlers. I learned a lot from playing pick & roll seeing so many different coverages
You played 2 seasons with at Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga)n averaging 21.5ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 22.4%, FT: 73.8% and in your second season averaged 19.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 3.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 70.6%. How vital were these 2 seasons in your basketball development overseas? How did your game grow? The 2 seasons in Tampere were important for me. It was an introduction to the European style of basketball
How key was guard David Gonzalvez in your rookie season? Was he like a mentor for you?
David was great. He always filled me with confidence. Everyday we were in the gym playing 1 on 1 just sharpening our game. We also worked on a lot of moves in the post
In your second season you lost a tough playoff series to Kauhajoki? In games 1 and 2 the team allowed 120 points per game. You scored 31 points in game 2. What memories do you have of this series?
Kauhajoki forced us to play a fast paced style of game which fits how I like to play so I just wanted to be very aggressive. I always enjoyed Karhu fans. It gave me an extra boost as well
You were in Germany with the Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos Second Team (Germany-ProB). You left in December 2020. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
What I learned from Germany was how important it was to take care of my body. Nutrition, Sleep, & recovery is very important and at the time I didn’t understand that.
You played at Georgia Southern University (NCAA) from 2015-2020 and played 133 games. What memories do you have of these 5 years? How tough was not playing March madness in 2020 because of Covid?
Georgia Southern was the most fun times I could say I had in my basketball career. We had such a family vibe and so much talent on the team. It was tough not being able to play march madness. You grow up watching this tournament all your life and hope to play in it one day. It was unfortunate that it was taken away from us
Early in your freshman year you lost to Duke and played against future NBA guys like Grayson Allen and Brandon Ingram. What memories do you have of that game? Were you able soak up valuable things from a loss like that? Playing at Duke for me was an eye opener. It just showed me that I wasn’t where I wanted to be and that I needed to improve my game in so many ways
You played 4 years with Tookie Brown? Did you guys become like brothers in that time? Tookie will always be a lifetime brother. I’ve learned so much from him on the court but just off the court he’s a great human being
How did head coach Mark Byington groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Coach Byington was great. He pushed us everyday to be better on & off the court.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tookie Brown?
Tookie and I didn’t have many 1 on 2 battles. It would be more team battles. Some days be got the best of my team and some days I got this beat of his team
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Brandon Ingram
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? Tookie brown Montae Glenn Isaiah Crawley Toddrick Gotcher Alterique Gilbert
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? LeBron, Jordan, Kobe, Kareem Abdul Jabbar
Who is your Goat and why? My goat is LeBron James. His accolades and longevity speaks for itself
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I saw the sequel to coming to America. I enjoyed the movie but it was nothing compared to the 1st.
AJ Sumbry (203-F-1994, college: Wagner, agency: BIG) is a 30 year old 203cm from New Jersey playing his 6th pro season and first with the BSW Sixers. He has been a basketball globetrotter having played for 9 clubs in countries like Denmark, Georgia, North Maceadonia, Kosovo, Romania, France, Sweden and Slovakia.He began his basketball career at St Benedict´s Preparatory school and then played a season at Quinnipiac University (NCAA). He then played 3 years at Wagner (NCAA) and as a senior averaged 8.1ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 46.3%, FT: 57.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career overseas.
Thanks AJ for talking to germanhoops.com. Last season you began with BC Lulea (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 5.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 75.0%. Why was that stay so short? Were you the odd man out with Isaiah Mucius? I wouldn’t say the odd man out Isaiah is my guy. I just think they were looking for more of a small ball 4/3 type of player.
You then moved t o B K Iskra Svit (Slovakia-Nike SBL) averaging 12.2ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 80.0%. How tough was losing that playoff series to Spisski Rytieri after the exciting game 3 76-75 win? It was tough but even more tough on how we lost. 4 ejections in a deciding game is almost unheard of.
In the 2022-2023 season you played with Rueil Athletic Club Basket (France-NM1) averaging 7.4ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 72.9%. Your stats weren´t as big as other years. Did you have a different kind of role than usual? I think that year was one of the bigger adjustments I had to get used to being the only import for the first time was a little different as well as adjusting to the style of play with nm1 having a lot of heavier 5 men and me being more of a 4 took some adjusting as well.
In the 2021-2022 season you played for 3 teams with KK Angeli Skopje (North Macedonia-Vtora Liga) averaging 11.3ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.0apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 52.7%, FT: 55.6%, in Jan.’22 moved to Golden Eagle Ylli (Kosovo-Superliga) averaging 9.8ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.8apg, 1.5spg; Liga Unike: 2 games: 6.5ppg, 5.5rpg, in Mar.’22 signed at CSM VSKC Miercurea Ciuc (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 8.1ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 42.9%, FT: 70.4%. Did it feel like you were living out of a suitcase? Your stay was very short in Kosovo. How tough is it to build relationships in situations like that and what did you learn from this season?
Yea I was definitely living out of a suitcase that year for sure. I think building relationships is one of the easier things after all you spend so much time in the gym together that it happens so naturally. I would say I learned how to be able to adjust to different coaches and team dynamics. In Macedonia it was a really young team which was completely different to Kosovo where it was a team full of vets who ended up winning the league that year, to Romania a team in-between but at the bottom of the league.
In the 2020-2021 season you played with BC Cactus Tbilisi (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 12.7ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.6apg, Blocks-4 (1.2bpg), FGP: 43.3%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 69.9%. It was Covid but you had a solid season. You won an exciting playoff series against Vera, but then lost to Rustavi. What memories do you have from this season? Covid definitely made it an interesting year having no fans and curfew for most of the year. For sure built pretty strong relationships with my teammates that year I would say are my memories from that year.
You played your rookie pro season with BMS Herlev Wolfpack (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 13.4ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.1apg, Blocks-3 (1.6bpg), FGP: 48.7%, FT: 69.7%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?
Hahah it think just getting to Denmark and seeing the bicycle culture was a big shock for me. That was new to me but was fun to try and be a part of that cultural aspect.
You began your NCAA career at Quinnipiac University (NCAA) playing 27 games averaging 1.5ppg, 1.3rpg. What memories do you have of this freshman season? You began well netting 10 points against Hartford, but after that had huge fluctuations in your minutes. What did you learn from this season? I remember that first game was big and we got a w over Hartford I believe. I think the biggest lesson that year was just the up and downs that come with a season as well as the little things like learning about scouting and just how to show up everyday.
You then sat out 2 years before finishing at Wagner (NCAA). Were these 2 years some of the toughest in your life? How do you feel did you grow as a man?
Yea they really were some of the toughest in my life. That was my first time dealing with a serious injury that required surgery and for me to be out around 6-7 months. So that was really hard not being able to do anything. It definitely forced me to grow up in how I looked at everything.
You then played at Wagner from 2016-2019. Your minutes rose every season as did your scoring. How vital were these 3 years for your basketball development being moved along step by step? I think that having to sit out my first year at Wagner allowed me to adjust to the defense first and toughen principles that we had there paved the way for my time there along with the chip on my shoulder from transferring. Early on when we had more older guys I knew that defense was how I was going to get my minutes so that was my focus. As the years went on with guys graduating I had to fill the role more and more offensively while still being an anchor defensively. I think that helped my game a lot being able to play both sides of the ball.
You had so many great games against Fairfield, Mass-Lowell or LIU Brooklyn just to name a few, but what was your most fondest moment on the court at Wagner? My most fond moment was beating a ranked UConn at their house for the first game of the season.
What memories do you have of Blake Francis? He has been in Germany playing the last years. Did his development as a player overseas surprise you or did you know he would go far? Lol Blake is my guy he’s was actually my roommate too. His development definitely didn´t surprise me. We could see as soon as he got there he could score with the best of them and with coach Bash’s defensive principles we knew he’d go far.
What memories do you have Donald Copeland. He was an undersized guard that had a great career overseas. Even if he didn’t play your position, what could you soak up from his wisdom on a daily basis? Cope would talk to me a lot about preparation and always doing the extra things that you need to do to make sure your ready to produce. And the reality of overseas that you have to produce or you can be replaced.
How did head coach Bashir Mason groom and prepare you best for a professional career? I think Bash put me in a position to be prepared for anything. I had some of the hardest practice under Bash but I got through them that taught me a lot of resilience that is still keeping me going to this day.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Greg Senat? Hahah I got to say me there but he’s for sure got me beat on the football field.
Who is the greatest player that you battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA?
In college I would say between Amida Brimah the Porter brother when they were at Missouri even though Michael Porter didn’t play that game.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? That tough I don’t think I can answer that one haha
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? Lebron, Shaq, Ben Wallace, JR Smith, Kobe
Who is your GOAT?
Lebron
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? Haha yea I have. The sequel wasn’t the worse sequel I’ve seen though.
Janne Lasse Mueller (193-PG-2006) is a 18 year old 193cm pointguard that recently completed the 2024-2025 season with the Dragons Rhondorfaveraging 13,4ppg, 2,3rpg, and 1,5apg. He also has a double license for easyCreditBBL team telekom Baskets Bonn where he has played 7 BBL games and 1 BCL game. Last season he played with Team Bonn/Rhoendorf U19 team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 26.6ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 70.0%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 79.5%, played also at Dragons Rhoendorf (Germany-ProB) averaging 8.9ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 61.6%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 76.9%, played also at Telekom Baskets Bonn 2nd team (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 28.0ppg, 3.7rpg, 4.0apg, 1.0spg. In the 2022-2023 season he played with the Telekom Baskets Bonn 2nd team (Regionalliga) averaging 12.3ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 84.6%, played also at Team Bonn/Rhoendorf U19 team (NBBL) averaging 25.0ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 87.9%. In the 2021-2022 season he played with Team Bonn/Rhoendorf U19 team (NBBL) averaging 13.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 74.3%. He is still with the Telekom Baskets Bonn recently but spoke to germanhoops.com about the Dragons Rhondorf season.
The Dragons Rhondorf reached the playoffs. What is your season summary? It seemed like the Dragons had the talent to get further or not? I think we played below our potential. We had a very strong roster with a lot of talent. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to fully unlock our potential as a team to make the season more successful.
Can one say the season was up and down? The team never had more than a 2 game winning streak. What do you believe hindered the team from winning more games? A lot of our players practiced with the BBL, so we didn´t really had practice time together. So we didn’t manage to connect as well as a team as we wanted to. There was definitely more potential in this team.
Defense was a problem. How did you see the development of the defense and the team overall this season? Was it able to develop further?
Especially in the first part of the season our defense was a big problem that also hindered us from winning more games. In the second part we improved our defense, communicated better and defended better as a team. All in all, I think we had more potential on the defensive side.
How did you see the development of the young players? Was there a player that developed the best?
I think the young players developed pretty good. Especially Kenan had a tough time at the beginning coming from another team but he quickly got used to it and developed his game.
Who was the most improved player on the team? Josh Behrendt
Who was the MVP of the season for the Dragons Rhondorf? Tim Smith Jr
You averaged 13/2/1 stats and shot 34% from outside. How do you rate your personal season? I think I improved a lot this season. I practiced with the BBL and was able to learn a lot from the experienced players. Obviously I will work hard this summer and get better for the next season.
You made a big jump from last season. How did your game grow in the Pro B? I knew the league from last year so I already had experience that helped me for this season. I had more responsibility, so I was able to create more for me and the team.
What was your personal favorite game of the season? Maybe the 24 points against the Lowen where you won 96-93?
The game against the Lowen was one of my favorite games this season for sure. It was a close game and we got the win at the end. But also the last game against Leverkusen was fun. Unfortunately we could not get the win but the gym was packed with great energy and we just played with great intensity.
On what areas of your game will you work on most this summer?
I will work on my body a lot, I want to get stronger and improve my athleticism. Also, I will work on my shot and in general being able to score from all three levels on the court.
Who was the toughest player that you faced this season on the court from Pro B teams? Rupert Hennen, Calvin Wishart.
What is the next step for you? Will you continue be with the Telekom Baskets Bonn and how does your summer look like? I want to use the summer to work hard and get better every day. Also, I want to play the U19 World Cup with the German national team.
6 South teams were swept by north teams. How crazy is that? Is the north really that much better? I don´t really think the north is better, maybe they have teams with more experience but I personally don´t see big differences between the north and the south. Especially in a playoff series, everything can happen.
Who will reach the NBA final and win it all?
OKC
Is Nikola Jokic the unanimous NBA MVP or will Shai Gillgeous Alexander get it? I am a big fan of Shai Gillgeous Alexander, so I hope he will get the MVP this year.
Kelvin Omojola (183-G-1997, college: Northwest) is a 28year old 183cm point guard that completed his fourth professional season and fourth in Germany and second with the Dragons Rhondorf avergaing 9/3/3. Last season he helped them win the pro B title last season averaging 12.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-2 (6.1apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 79.5%. In 2022-2023 he played with PS Karlsruhe (Pro A) averaging 3,1ppg and as a rookie played with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (Germany-ProB) averaging 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 71.8%. He began his basketball career at Green Valley high school and then played at Red Deer (JUCO), Benedict College (NCAA2) averaging 9.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 66.7% and Northwest University (NAIA) averaging 7.4ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 62.1% and 13.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 54.2%, FT: 87.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the end of the 2024-2025 season.
Thanks Kelvin for talking to germanhoops.com. The Dragons Rhondorf reached the playoffs. What is your season summary? It seemed like the Dragons had the talent to get further or not?
We definitely had the talent Miles to go further, but it’s more than talent when it comes to winning basketball games. I was taught that early in my basketball career, the little details matter the most. The details is what separates teams and players.
Can one say the season was up and down? The team never had more than a 2 game winning streak. What do you believe hindered the team from winning more games? Yeah the season was a rollercoaster Miles. It’s super unfortunate, especially after coming off a championship season. There’s so many reasons as to why we didn’t win more games. We had an unexpected coaching change mid season, we played the entire season with only 1 big man, we had 3-4 main rotation players not be in practice with us all week then come to the games on the weekend. It’s EXTREMELY tough to build a camaraderie or chemistry. But regardless, you have to make the most out of every situation.
Defense was a problem. How did you see the development of the defense and the team overall this season? Was it able to develop further? Our defense was a problem all year Miles. It was up and down and we had no consistency. You could say the same for our offense too, we had some games we would play well, shoot the ball well and have great ball movement. Other games would be the complete opposite.
How did you see the development of the young players? Was there a player that developed the best?
The development of the young guys was pretty good this year. We had a younger team so we had a lot of young guys getting valuable playing experience. The player that I feel developed the most would probably be Josh Behrendt. He has all the intangibles of becoming a great player. Great work ethic, high motor, and competitive.
Who was the most improved player on the team? I would say Alex Lagermann, but not from a skill perspective because he was always extremely skilled. But he was able to showcase his talent more at the end of the season and show why he should have been playing more minutes/be a starter all season. He’s a guy that, in my opinion, needed to be playing 27+ minutes a game.
Who was the MVP of the season? For our team, Tim Smith would be our MVP. He’s also super skilled who plays hard on both ends of the floor. The sky is the limit for Tim. He can & should be playing high level basketball VERY soon.
You averaged 10/3/3 stats in 3 less minutes. How do you rate your personal season? It was okay Miles, definitely wasn’t the season I planned on having but it’s alright. There’s a lot I can take from this year and learn from!
You missed games with injuries. How much of an affect did injuries play in your performance and not having the same type of players as last year? It was extremely tough Miles, I’ve never missed a game in my career before this season and for me to miss multiple games this year, including the playoffs, was tough. It affected my performance and rhythm but that’s no excuse. When you’re out on the court, you need to perform. It’s that’s simple. And of course, not having a team like last year affects it as well. When you’re playing with experienced players, it makes the game a lot easier. Often times guys will be on the same page without having to say any words! When you’re with a younger group, it’s different points of emphasis and teaching that needs to be done. And but you need to adapt and make the most of it.
What was your personal favorite game of the season? I would say @ Bayern Munich. I played well and won player of the week, but the reason why it’s my favorite is because that game was a true TOTAL team game. We scored over 100 points, everyone on the team scored that game, we won by 30, KJ & Kai had to coach for Coach Stephan. It was just an extremely fun game/trip in all aspects.
On what areas of your game will you work on most this summer? My shooting. Becoming a more efficient shooter will just open up the game for me even more.
Who was the toughest player that you faced this season on the court from Pro B teams?
I’ll go with Jaylen Alston from Urspring! He plays very similar to Zion Williamson and he’s an extremely tough matchup. Walking mismatch and really a great player.
What is the next step for you? Will you return to the Dragons Rhondorf or could you see a change? I’m not sure yet Miles! I could and most likely will see a change but I have no idea at the moment.
6 South teams were swept by north teams. How crazy is that? Is the north really that much better?
That is really crazy Miles. You could say the north is better, but the playoffs come down to play style and matchups.
Who will reach the NBA final and win it all?
“OKC, KFC, UFC… Lakers in 5.” Man Miles! I was convinced the Lakers were going to get to the Finals and they got bounced in 5! Haha, so I believe either OKC or Minnesota will get to the finals in the West. As for the East, Boston or Cleveland. I’ll go Minnesota vs. Cleveland! And Minnesota being the dark horse winner this year.
Is Nikola Jokic the unanimous NBA MVP or will Shai Gillgeous Alexander get it? SGA will get it, for sure. Jokic is the best player in the NBA but SGA will win MVP for this season.
Alexander Lagerman (202-SG-2004) is a 20 year old 202cm shooting guard playing his first season with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf averaging 8,4ppg, 2,7rpg and 1,0apg. Last season he played with the wiha Panthers Schwenningen (ProB) playing16 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 61.6%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 72.7%. He began his basketball career with the Fraport Skyliners in the JBBL (U-16) and also played 4 Pro B games and in 2022-2023 season in the NBBL averaged :21.2ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 78.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the 2024-2025 season.
The Dragons Rhondorf reached the playoffs. What is your season summary? It seemed like the Dragons had the talent to get further or not? The talent to go further yes. You could argue that we were missing a true to size big man, but I feel like we had problems clicking as a team. The team chemistry was definitely something to criticize. But we did reach the Playoffs which was one of our goals
Can one say the season was up and down? The team never had more than a 2 game winning streak. What do you believe hindered the team from winning more games? Definitely the consistency and team chemistry were the main factors.
Defense was a problem. How did you see the development of the defense and the team overall this season? Was it able to develop further?
Very very inconsistent miles, some games it worked but other games it was a disaster. I wouldn’t say that there was a clear path of development.
How did you see the development of the young players? Was there a player that developed the best?
That was one of the main focal points of the club, but it’s hard to pick one. I like Josh’s energy and believe he can contribute core values to a team.
Who was the MVP of the season? Tim for sure. Statistically you have to give it to him
You averaged 9/2/1 stats in 19 minutes How do you rate your personal rookie season?
I just checked and it was 9/3/1 in limited minutes on good percentages especially from 3. It is my second season though but I would rate it well because of the limited minutes
You had a different role than in Schwenningen and was efficient in the minutes that you got? You finished the season strong. Is this something you can build off moving forward? Yes definitely can build from this season. I would view it as a step forward not backwards.
You went 0/6 from outside in the last 2 games, but still shot the best ever from outside. How did you see the development of your shooting this season? I’m very content with how I shot the ball this season. At the end it was also tough getting good looks because Leverkusen did a good job limiting my shots from three.
You had 3 steals in game 2 against Leverkusen. How did you see the development of your defense this season? I can definitely impact the game defensively due to my frame and athleticism, I believe I showed that last game.
What was your favorite personal game of the season? It has to be Würzburg with the game winner and 22 points in 22 min on 5/6 three. That was a very good personal performance.
On what areas of your game will you work on most this summer? Weight lifting and my left hand.
Who was the toughest player that you faced this season on the court from Pro B teams? The hardest to guard was definitely Calvin Wishart of Wurzburg.
What is the next step for you? Will you return to the Dragons Rhondorf or could you see a change? Not quite sure yet let’s see what the future holds for me.
6 South teams were swept by north teams. How crazy is that? Is the north really that much better? Seems to be that way yes. I was surprised in how bad cologne did.
Who will reach the NBA final and win it all?
The Lakers in 5.
Is Nikola Jokic the unanimous NBA MVP or will Shai Gillgeous Alexander get it? Jokic or else it’s highway robbery lol. He’s by far the best in the entire league
Chima Oduocha (203-C-1998, college: Columbia, MO, agency: Promo Sport ID) is a 26 year old 203cm that has the American and Nigerian citzenship. This season he played with Pajarraco CB Santfeliuenc (Spain-Segunda FEB) averaging 4,9ppg and 6,4rpg. Last season he balled with Akranes IA (Iceland-Division I) averaging 9.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 2FGP: 61.9%, 3FGP: 66.7%, FT: 82.4%. He played his rookie season with ABC Santo Andre (Portugal-Proliga) averaging 13.5ppg, 9.7rpg, FGP: 56.6%, FT: 78.3%.He began his basketball career at James B. Conant High School. He then played at 2 JUCO schools with Harper College (JUCO) averaging 9.8ppg, 7.2rpg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 56.1% and at John Wood Community College (JUCO). He then played 2 seasons at Missouri University of Science and Tech (NCAA2) averaging 6.7ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 38.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 77.0% and 4.5ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 50.0%. He finished at Columbia College, MO (NAIA) averaging 14.6ppg, 7.5rpg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 72.3%
Thanks Chima for talking to eurobasket.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment? Thank you Miles for the interview. I’m currently in Chicago, which is located in the state of Illinois in the United States. But basketball life is treating me well, it’s the game I love so getting to do it at a high level is nothing but a blessing.
After playing a full rookie season, you haven´t played a full season the last 2 seasons. Are you suffering some growing pains as a player at the moment?
My career as a player has gone through its ups and downs, and I see this as part of my development. My rookie season gave me a lot of experience,and despite the last two seasons not being full ones. I’ve continued to improve my game, stay ready, and learn from every situation I was in. Whether it’s adjusting to different roles, or refining my skills, I’m focused on staying prepared and making an impact when I’m on the court. I know that my next opportunity is coming, and when it does, I’m going to make the most of it and show how much I’ve grown as a player and the impact I bring to a game.
You began this season with at Pajarraco CB Santfeliuenc (Spain-Segunda FEB) signing at the end of November. You averaged 4,9ppg and 6,4rpg in 21 minutes. What kind of experience were these 2 months. You only won 1 game out of 10. Did they expect more from you? It was nice though the club was located just outside of downtown Barcelona. So there was a lot to do outside of basketball as well as, Barcelona has a very rich cultur. So it was exciting to dive into that as I was playing basketball for the club. But in terms of playing I expected more out of myself, I’m a double double guy and I want to go places to create a winning culture. The team ended up going bankrupt and they informed me they couldn’t afford to pay for my work visa so I had to come home, hence why I only played 2 months. It’s sad I wasn’t able to achieve what I know I’m capable of at this club, but I take it more as a learning experience. Experience I intend to use as a sort of chip on my shoulder, for wherever I land next.
Now your preparing for the March Madness Invitational Event. Is your season over now? A Danish team is looking at you. Are you focusing on getting the best possibly opportunity for next season or possibly finish elsewhere this season? Yeah I’m really excited to attend the March Madness invitational, I see it as sort of a rebrand. I consider myself a “diamond in the rough” and the Handy agency has a way of discovering these types of players such as myself. I´m a underdog but I plan on waking a lot of people up soon. As far as my season I don’t believe it’s over; I would like to finish the season up elsewhere, help a team out in anyway I can. The Danish team that expressed interest is definitely something on my radar as well. I’m focused on finding the best possible opportunity to show people who I really am, which is a hard worker, a great teammate, and a dominant player.
Let´s talk about your game. Your listed as a 203cm center. You are a bit undersized but can score and get rebounds well. What is your biggest strength on the court?
Yeah playing the 4 / 5 positions at 6’8/ 6’9 I found different ways to impact the game outside just my low post scoring or my midrange game. I’m a huge rebounder, offensively and defensively. It’s one of my biggest strengths on the court. A double double is what I aim for every time I step on the court, because I know how much rebounding impacts winning. It’s considered dirty work but I enjoy doing the little things to help my team get that edge.
Are you merely a back to the basket and pick and role player? You hardly shoot the three. Is becoming more of a modern day player a goal?
I’m definitely more than a back to the basket player. I have a midrange game, as well as a mid post game. Haven’t been able to show my ability to shoot the three. But I work on it and have it, just haven’t had the confidence to shoot it as much. Definitely something I’m looking to utilize moving forward, as it’ll add more options to my game..
How would you describe your defensive game? You don´t stand out with steals or blocks in the stats. Do you do many things that the stat sheet don´t get? I would use a couple of words to describe my defensive game and they would be positioning, effort, and awareness. I pride myself on staying in front of my man, and preventing them from scoring, cutting off driving lanes using my lateral quickness, and switching 1-5. I’m really good at team defense calling out screens and being active in the help, as well as contesting without fouling. I believe the steals and blocks will come, just a matter of timing and continuing to put myself in the right positions to do so.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? I’ve really been working on shooting the three a lot. Really honing in on the mechanics and having proper follow through on my shots. Being a inside and outside threat is what I believe will make my game most lethal
Last season you balled with Akranes IA (Iceland-Division I) averaging 9.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 2FGP: 61.9%, 3FGP: 66.7%, FT: 82.4%. You were there for only a few months and had a few good games. Why was this stay so short? I was there for a short time because the team ultimately decided to go in a different direction in terms of the player they wanted. No hard feelings with the club, I’m grateful for the opportunity they gave me in the little time I had.
You played your rookie season with ABC Santo Andre (Portugal-Proliga) averaging 13.5ppg, 9.7rpg, FGP: 56.6%, FT: 78.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? My rookie club I will always have love, I grew so much as a person there. My wake up call was when they closed the door at night and I heard nothing but silence outside. I’m from a big city so I wasn’t familiar with a peaceful life, there was always something going on in Chicago. But I thank Santo André for easing my nerves with that and really making me feel like I was a part of a family.
What memories do you have of the tough 3 games playoff series loss to Portimonense? You had a monster game of 24/17 in game 3 but lost 85-79? Yeah those battles were fond memories I have of my journey, just heartbreaking how it ended. I actually hit the two free throws to send game 3 into overtime. But I fouled out at the start of overtime, and we ended up losing. I couldn’t end my rookie season with the championship, but it taught me a lot about myself and showed me that I belong in this game.
You played at 2 JUCO schools Harper College and John Wood Community College. Every player that I have interviewed that played JUCO have said that it was a very tough grind, but an experience that they wouldn´t have traded for the world- How was it for you?
Juco was so critical for my development I definitely wouldn’t trade it for the world either. I was a late bloomer, and juco was a opportunity to help me grow and develop. Juco helped me develop a workhorse mentality, nothing is given to you ; so you you have to work even harder to get noticed. Juco is a world where players often have something to prove, me being one of them. Juco basketball built my character. And rewarded me for being willing to outwork everyone. I embraced the grind and developed toughness and work ethic that translated to the next level-not just in basketball, but in life.
You were a NJCAA D2 District XVI Finalist in 2018 with John Wood Community College. What do you remember being so special with that team? I think what was most special was the love we had for each other, we were a family. That kind of chemistry translated on the court as well. I still speak with some of those guys till this day.
What kind of an impact did Brad Hoyt have on you that season? How did he help you make the next step to the NCAA 2? He was big in helping me understand what a university would need from you in terms of effort day in and out. He refined my skills and gave me key insights on the more technical side of the game.
You then played at Missouri University of Science and Tech (NCAA2) averaging 6.7ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 38.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 77.0% and 4.5ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 50.0%. Your minutes actually got cut down from 20 to 12 in your last season. What kind of a role did you have there?
My role as Missouri S&T was a rebounder hustle guy, I had good touch around the rim and great rebounding instincts but my role was limited on the team. A role I’m happy I experienced because it shaped how I play today. I know everytime I step on the court I got to give everything, and that’s a mentality I stayed with.
You then took a step back to play at Columbia College, MO (NAIA) averaging 14.6ppg, 7.5rpg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 72.3%. When looking back how important was it making this decision? How did your game grow there?
I don’t think NAIA is a step back, a lot of players from that level played D1 or move on to go play D1 or D2. It’s really underrated in terms of talent. But choosing to play at Columbia College was huge for my development. I went from being a hustle guy to the number 1 option. I had a team depending on me producing night in and out, and I didn’t take that lightly. Columbia helped with my confidence and expectations in the terms of output needed to impact winning; Columbia opened my eyes on what turns a good player to a great player. As an import at the pro level, a lot of these things I still use today.
You reached the AMC final. How tough was the 66-65 loss to MBU? Is that a game that you couldn´t forget so easily?
Yeah, that game was really tough. Our opponent MBU was the host so they were essentially playing a home game in a sold out arena. Definitely a game that was hard to forget and we lost on a buzzer beater. I sometimes reminisce about what could’ve been. But you learn and move on.
How did head coach Tomas Brock groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
Coach Brock prepared me mentally. He held me to a high standard, pushing me to stay locked in through adversity, fatigue, and pressure situations. He also taught me about professionalism-how to take care of my body, study film, and approach the game like a job. Really just changed my mindset, so I’m forever grateful to him for that.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Mitch Fairless? Funny part is Mitch never wanted to play 1 on 1 against me, I was a hard person to guard my teammates have always told me.
Who the toughest player you battled that reached the NBA? Toughest person I’ve battled was honestly a couple people, both Alex Stein as well as Brodic Thomas. Broderick playing for the Boston Celtics and Alex playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers as well as their G League affiliate.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? I would say Aziz Fadika (Juco), Troy Burrows (Juco), Keith Carter (Pro liga MVP), Tyler Henry (Spain), and Kevin Legardy ( College)
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Alright in no order
LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Micheal Jordan, Wilt Chamberlain, and Magic Johnson
Who is your Goat? I know I’m going to get a lot of hate for this but LeBron is my GOAT. Just what he’s been able to do for the game and for this long, we’ll never see anyone like that again. I know the old heads don’t want to hear that though ??
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
Actually I haven’t seen the sequel, but that’s because I think they should have left it alone. The movie ended just fine, but now I might check it out if you recommend it. I love coming to America.
Armani Chaney (178-PG-1997, college: Tennessee St.) is a 26 year old 178cm point guard from Chicago that has been a professional player since 2019. This season he played with Astros de Jalisco (Mexico-LNBP) averaging 14/2/3/1 and began the season with the Kapfenberg Bulls (Austria-BSL) averaging 24.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 4.9apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 57.1%, 3FGP: 39.4%, FT: 88.6%. He played most of his career in North America with teams like the Kokomo Bobkats (TBL), Chicago Fury (ABA), Newfoundland Rogues (Canada-BSL) and the Medora Timberjacks (TBL). He also got experience playing with MC El Brasil Santa Ana (El Salvador-Liga MB, starting five): Clausura: 17 games: Score-4 (28.8ppg), 6.3rpg, Assists-3 (7.1apg), 2.2spg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 68.8%. He began his basketball career with St Rita High School and then played at Tennessee State University (NCAA) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 108 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Armani for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you? I am currently playing with the Astros De Jalisco in the Ciba Copa. Basketball life right now is pretty fun, but yet the same grind.
It took you 6 years to get overseas. You mostly played in the States, Canada and El Salvador. Why didn´t you come overseas sooner or were you content with where you were playing, or was your size always a factor?
The time I took off was predicated on my children’s growth and just wanting to stay home and being there for them. Mainly playing Semi Pro, El Salvador, and Canada really molded me into the player I am now. Size was always an advantage in my eyes, I never really felt it hindered me to achieve anything I wanted.
You had a solid NCAA career at Tennessee State (NCAA) and put up the kind of stats that would have gotten you overseas and in high leagues. How big is the chip on your shoulder? The chip on my shoulder has always been big, just understanding at an early age, that tough environments make you have to go out and earn respect because in Chicago, they won’t give it to you.!
You had an incredible short season in Austria. What were the reasons for leaving? Were you the scapegoat for the losing? Austria was a learning experience and i appreciate everybody that I met there. I think myself and the organization viewed winning differently, but I still cherish those relationships, Kapfenberg bulls are a really good organization with a lot of history.
The team lost 7 of 16 games with 3 or less points. I mean how unlucky can a team be. Have you ever experienced losing so many close games in crunch-time? Yes, I’ve experienced a lot of seasons where most games are close, but it’s always unlucky to be on the other side of winning.
You were a walking bucket averaging 24.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 4.9apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 57.1%, 3FGP: 39.4%, FT: 88.6%. What did you enjoy most about playing in the Austrian BSL? I believe I was just excited and grateful to be in Europe playing basketball at a high level. Understanding the road I took to get there, but never really being stagnant or content with my results. So I would say the experience just gave me a different outlook on life and basketball!
Now you playing with Astros de Jalisco (Mexico-LNBP). Your have high profile teammates with an ex NBA player and guys who have played at high levels in Europe like Tre McCallum and Jerai Grant. What have you enjoyed most about the experience?
I’m just happy to be apart of a winning culture and another great organization. But truthfully all of us are deserving and just understands what it takes to win basketball games. Obviously the experience they have is very vital to our success but we are mostly like brothers, we’re creating our own experiences everyday.
Your holding your own averaging 14/1/2. Your game seems to fit this league. How has your game profited from having such talented players?
Well i think when you are being challenged everyday to not only be selfless but trust your teammates more and more, it becomes you. Our coaches do a great job with making everyone feel equal so we don’t experience egos or the normal adversity teams seem to go through. As for myself, I think my best brand of basketball is playing with more talented players around me, I believe it shows my best attributes with being a point guard.
You played 2 seasons with the Newfoundland Rogues (NBL Canada) averaging 32.1ppg, 7.1rpg, 6.5apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 91.1% 30.3ppg), 6.4rpg, Assists-1 (7.8apg), Steals-3 (1.6spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 87.8%. You were an absolute walking bucket. Did sometimes feel like being a man playing with boys?
You know in the moment I didn’t really realize how blessed I was to be able to do the things I was actually doing. But now that I look back, sometimes it’s shocking just understanding the circumstances I was up against. But it’s just a pillar of me going harder and trying to reach my full potential every season.
In your first season you had 3 40 plus scoring games and a triple double. What was your fondest moment on the court that season?
My main goal my first season was to be consistent as possible, because that was something I battled with in college. But I would say it’s probably most of the games when I would play bad and then deliver for my team at the end! Those moments built character. Also playing for Coach Williams he gave me a lot of confidence.
In your second season you had 6 40 plus point games including a 52 point game, 2 triple doubles and a 20 assist game. What was your fondest moment that season?
The goal my second season was to win in all facets. I wanted to show that what I did my first season wasn’t a fluke, and do all I could to help my teammates better. I feel I was a better leader my second year there. But the best moment of the season was when we won 4 out of our last 6 games to make the playoffs.
You were toiling in the ABA and TBL in your first 3 seasons after the NCAA. How tough were these 3 years? Did you have a day job? Actually I didn’t work I was in a situation where certain family, and people believed in me. Everyday was basketball. I actually wouldn’t be here without my Fury Coaches ( Reece and Big Mike) also the trainer I had at the time Stef Hannah ( Ex NBA).
You got your first gig outside the States with MC El Brasil Santa Ana (El Salvador-Liga MB) averaging 28.8ppg), 6.3rpg, Assists-3 (7.1apg), 2.2spg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 68.8%. What memories do you have of El Salvador? You were a walking bucket and filled the stat sheet like a Russell Westbrook. El Salvador was my first job, so I didn’t really have to many expectations on myself other than handle my business like a pro. I almost didn’t think I deserved to be a pro, but I kept with my faith and just stayed grateful to be playing basketball again.
You played at Tennessee State University (NCAA) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 108 NCAA games. Your minutes rose drastically in your last 2 seasons. How did your game grow in your last 2 seasons? I think more confidence assembled into playing more and being more of an asset on the court than a liability. Coach Russ actually helped me improve my jump shot drastically my senior year. That is the reason I’m doing the things I can do now.
In your second season you lost to NCAA powerhouse Duke 65-55 and battled guys like Jayson Tatum, Grayson Allen and Luke Kennard. What memories do you have of that defensive battle?
I actually played against Tatum in high school so that was a cool experience to play him again at that point of his career. But I just remember those guys being very physical and tough.
How did Dana Ford and Brian Collins groom and prepare you for a professional career? I think Coach Ford just showed me what it meant to be deserving, you know do all the little things right and reap rewards from it. Coach Collins was more of a people person so we mainly had talks about life without basketball and how to attack the world outside of sports.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Michael LittleJohn?
Haha, me and Mikey always competed in practice. Mainly on the same team though, but he was a great player and we definitely helped each other elevate our game.
Who is the best player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?
I would say Ja Morant, just solely on the way he controlled a game and kept his teammates engaged. But Tahjere McCall was the toughest player I had to play against everyday in practice.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Tripp Davis
Alondre Pickens
Charles Matthews
Tahjere McCall
Luwane Pipkins
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?
LeBron James
Steph Curry
Kyrie Irving
Derrick Rose
Kobe Bryant
Who is your GOAT?
Lebron james
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
I think it was a great spinoff after all these years. Great movie.
There was a time in Boston in the 80´s when the Celtics played, you were either at the game or watching it on TV with Celtics legend Bob Cousy doing the color commentary or listening on radio to the one and only Johnny Most with the raspy voice. They were winning titles with great players led by the big 3 with Larry Bird, Robert Parish and Kevin McHale. The so called BIG 3 are not to be compared, but this past season in Frankfurt there were 3 guys that had the most touches on the court. They have been one of the big reasons for the NBBL U-19 team being successful again. However, the big 3 of the Celtics back in the 80´s wouldn´t have been successful without key players like Danny Ainge, Dennis Johnson or Bill Walton. It was the same with the Frankfurt team as there were 2 very vital players, with Maximillian Peters and Julius Messer (200-SF-2007) who played in a specialist role. These 2 don´t carry the big load like the portrait big 3, but give key energy, scoring production and defensive intensity in every game. Messer is a very talented player that already has had some special moments on the court with the German youth national teams., “I have been lucky to have played 15 international cups. I have been with the U-15, U-16 and U-17 national teams. Unfortunately, I haven´t played any European or World cup games but played some memorable national team games. I remember playing against Turkey in Istanbul which was an intense and fast game. Another fond moment was playing against France. It is amazing to see how athletic these players already are for their ages. It was a new challenge to step up to, that I enjoyed”, stressed Julius Messer.
Julius Messer who lists French youth national player Nathan Holiman as his toughest opponent was born on April 8th, 2007 and grew up in Frankfurt Riedberg. Like many kids in Germany, he didn´t begin with basketball, but with soccer at the age of 3. But with time, he grew more and was too tall and his soccer coaches didn´t like that. “I wasn´t having fun with soccer so I tried basketball and liked it right away”, remembered Julius Messer. He began to play basketball at age 7 at Frankfurt Riedberg and had a tryout with the Skyliners at age 9. He then began to play with the Skyliners U-10 team. He was scoring 40-50 points a game by the time he played with the Skyliners U-12 team. In those days he was facing his current teammate Ivan Crnjac who back then played for Eintracht Frankfurt. He did have to fight with injuries and then Corona came. In this time, he was also visiting easyCredit BBL games of the Skyliners and already had basketball role models. “The first player that I was a fan of was Lebron James. I remember buying his #6 Miami Heat jersey. A few years later I began to enjoy watching players like Kevin Durant and Jaylen Brown. Going to games in Frankfurt, I really became a fan of Mike Morrison of the Skyliners, because he dunked the ball with authority and brought a lot of energy to the game”, Julius said with a smile in his face.
The athletic wing names Ivan Crnjac, Namori Omog, Chris Widmer, Noah Koch and Maximillian Peters as his closest teammates. Besides reaching the Top Four the year prior, the season2022-2023 with the Frankufrt Skyliners JBBL U-16 team was their biggest success so far. The team had a Cinderella season. The German sharp shooter remembers having a great semi-final game, but something then happened in the hotel that effected his game in the final. “The top 4 was tough for me. I remember hurting my finger in our last practice before the game. It was a very painful experience I had my hand taped and the pain severely effected my shooting. I had a good semi-final game by scoring 27 points. Back in the hotel Alba Berlin player Matthieu Gurijcic saw that my left hand was bruised and when the final game took place the next day, he was smart enough to not allow me to go right. “The atmosphere was amazing in the arena. The vibe was great. We had grown together so well during the season. It was too bad we couldn´t win the final. All in all it was a great experience”, remembered Julius Messer. A lot of those guys from the final from 2 years ago like Crnjac, Omog and Peters were still his teammates with the NBBL U-19 team. “We are like brothers. We also see each other at the national team meetings. We have grown close. A guy like Noah Koch who is in Vechta now has become a life long friend”, stated Julius Messer. Last season he got extra vital experience spending a year in the United States in North Carolina at Greensboro Day school which produced ex NBA and Real Madrid player Wayne Robinson. He was in the starting 5 of the team, that thought him to be a specialist in his role. To play for such a school brought a lot more pressure to perform at a high level. “I played for Coach Freddy Johnson who is the the 5th most winningest coach in the United States. It was brutal how disciplined you had to be to compete every day. I learned that you are judged by results. If you made one mistake, you would be subbed out right away. If the pass wasn´t perfect, you were out. Your self confidence was gone right away. I always thought that they didn´t play defense in USA, but they do and it´s very important”, stated Julius Messer. In this season 24/25 Ace Flagg, the brother of Cooper Flagg is on the team
This past season the young German who has Lebron, Jordan, Durant and Shaq on his NBA Mount Rushmore and Doncic, Giannis, Tony Parker and Jokic on his Euro Mount Rushmore was out for a long time not with an injury, but had a sickness called Mononucleosis. He couldn´t practice sports as it would be bad for his heart. He missed a month of school as he had no strength. He finally returned back in December and had some very strong games in the NBBL and Pro B. “I came back strong after my sickness. I worked very hard so I could fit in well with the team chemistry. I accepted not being in a key role right away”, said Julius Messer. In the NBBL, he averaged 9/4and in the Pro B 3/1. “My role this past season in the NBBL season was to attack closeouts, play defense and catch and shoot while in the Pro B to play good defense and take shots whenever I´m open”, stated Julius Messer. He was very fortunate to have 2 good coaches with Thore Bethke in the NBBL and Sepher Tarrah in the Pro B. “I have known Thore a long time since the U-14. I did a lot of individual training with him working on my shot. He has also helped me with attacking closeouts and decision making. Sepher has a lot of trust in me. I’ve to continue working hard to start gaining more minutes in the Pro B”, stressed Julius Messer. The NBBL recently lost to ratiopharm Ulm ending their season. “We played as a team. We worked hard in every practice and played hard in the games”, added Julius Messer.
The 2023 JBBL finalist who lists Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder, Franz Wagner and Isaac Bonga on his personal Germany Mount Rushmore is a 200cm forward that wasn´t able to give me a comparison to another NBA or Euro player concerning his playing style. His teammates Ivan Crnjac and Namori Omog also couldn´t help me. I guess the best thing is just to watch him play and come up with your own comparison. “I´m a player that is athletic, can shoot and play defense”, said Julius Messer. Even if his shooting is his biggest strength, he does have other attributes. “I love to go coast to coast, am quick and love the drive”, stressed Julius Messer. It’s no surprise that he can rise way above the rim to dunk. He showed it last season at Greensboro and in game 1 against ratiopharm Ulm, he went coast to coast with the massive 2 hand jam. But he isn´t only a strong offensive player but also takes a lot of pride on the defensive end. “I´m an aggressive defender and even when I get beat, I never give up. I always keep fighting”, warned Julius Messer. Like his teammates Ivan Crnjac and Maximillian Peters, he also has the goal of becoming a pro player but knows what he needs to work on to make the next step. “I need to be more consistent with my shot and defense. I feel like sometimes I play too hard. I need to play smarter and at times I could go harder for the rebound”, warned Julius Messer. It will be interesting to see where his basketball journey will go in the next few years.
German Hoops 