Ethan Chargois (205-F-1999, college: Oklahoma) is a 26 year old 205cm forward from Tulsa, Oklahoma playing his third professional season and first with Basket Brno (Czech Republic-NBL). Last season he played with Cheshire Phoenix (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 12.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 61.7%. He played his rookie season with Aurore de Vitre (France-NM1) and Taurinos de Aragua (Venezuela-SPB). He began his basketball career atz Union High School and then played at SMU (NCAA) from 2017-2021 playing a total of 108 games. He then added one more year and played the University of Oklahoma (NCAA). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.

Thanks Ethan for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your third pro season and first with Basket Brno (Czech Republic-NBL). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most of the experience?

It has been a great experience for me to have such a warm welcome in Brno and I think the biggest thing that I’ve enjoyed experiencing is the city itself and the people within it.

After a solid NCAA career, you really have had to grind overseas. You have made steps each season. How tough has the journey been? What kind of sacrifices have you had to make?

I think the biggest sacrifice for any overseas player is being away from family and loved ones for a long period of time. Other than that I think the strain that each season puts on your body is something to note as well

You broke out in England last season and continue to play well this season in the NBL and ENBL. What do you credit to having been able to adjust so well so quickly in different countries?

I think that’s what separates good players from great player is how quickly you can adjust and adapt year to year whether it be play style or off the court adjustments as well.

Your really filling the stat sheet well. Is it fair to say that your versatility has made another step this season? Your averaging almost 4 assists in the ENBL and averaging double double stats in points and rebounds?

Yeah I think versatility is a key selling point with me. I can guard and play multiple positions. I think that is really valuable especially in today´s style of play.

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

PJ Washington, Tobias Harris, Paulo Bancureo

Your three pointer is still a work in progress. How would you describe the development of your three at the moment?

I started off kind of slow from three but starting to find my spots more and knock the shots down with confidence

Would you classify yourself as a raw defender? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I can Guard multiple positions and my on ball defense is solid. I think my off ball defense could definitely use improvement though.

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

Athleticism and flexibility are key for me right now the rest of the game is like riding a bike for me because I’ve been playing so long. It comes naturally.

What kind of a teammate is Jordan Brown and how do you compliment each other best? Do you have a special bond since your the only 2 Americans on the team?

He is a very skilled inside finisher. We complement each other well because we are both good passers and yes we bonded because we are only two Americans.

Last season you played with Cheshire Phoenix (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 12.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 61.7%. How vital was this season for your development and confidence? You reached the final and were an allstar.

That season was very important for me to get back on track. I am forever grateful to Ben Thomas and James Bryce for giving me the opportunity to showcase what I can do on the international level after a not so great start to my career.

You lost a tough final to the London Lions 88-85. What memories will you always have from that game and battling ex NBA player Sam Dekker?

All in all, it was a very good season, but we definitely wanted that last game in the championship versus Lions. That is one that I think that will haunt me until the day I die.

You played your rookie season with Aurore de Vitre (France-NM1) averaging 3.3ppg, 1.6rpg. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

No comment

How tough was this season in general. It was your first time overseas. What did you learn about yourself?

No comment

You then went back to the States and played with the Enid Outlaws (TBL) averaging 18.1ppg, Reb-4 (12.0rpg), 3.8apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 63.3%. Did this experience give you that ambition to return overseas?

I wouldn’t say it gave me the ambition to go back overseas, but it definitely showed me that I was a lot better than the TBL and that I needed to be tested at a higher level.

You had an incredible 31/26 game. How tough is a league like this where everyone is playing for their stats and hoping to be discovered?

It’s hard but at the end of the day it’s Basketball and I had a really great team and group of guys around me that were focused on winning and getting numbers and I know a lot of teams were not like that. It was all about the numbers.

You played at Southern Methodist University (NCAA) from 2017-2021. In your 6th NCAA game, you beat Arizona (NCAA) 66-60 and scored 12 points. How important was a game like that early in your NCAA career? You battled against some future NBA guys like Deandre Ayton and Alonso Trier?

It was special especially playing against Alonzo Trier because he’s also from Oklahoma and in some ways I looked up to him growing up and how he played how he scored things like that so when I got him in the battle of Atlantis and ended up winning, it was a very cool experience for me.

How vital was head coach Tim Jankovich in your early basketball development? How did he help you most with your game?

Coach Jankovich was very vital and I’m also forever grateful for him and giving me the opportunity as a freshman to really show what I can do and throwing me in the fire.

What will you remember from your battles in practice with Feron Hunt? Was he able to push you to the maximum?

Yes, Mya and Feron are very good friends until this day. We always pushed each other and I think that’s what made us both successful in our professional careers..

You added a season with The University of Oklahoma (NCAA) averaging 4.1ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.9apg. How tough was this season? You averaged only 12 minutes but reached the NIT Sweet 16. What positives could you take from it?

I think that last grad year really taught me a valuable life lesson and that is goal where you’re appreciated not tolerated.

Who is the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that went to the NBA?

Anthony Edwards

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Shake Milton, Jahmal McMurray, Jarrey Foster, EJ hearkless, Feron Hunt

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

Lebron Kobe MJ AI

What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?

Bron

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

I did not see that unfortunately

Thanks Ethan for the chat.

Jordan Brown (211-F-1999, college: Memphis) is a 25 year old 211cm center from Calirfornia palying his rookie season overseas with Basket Brno (Czech Republic-NBL). He began his basketball career at Woodcreek High School and also played AAU ball with Play Hard Play Smart and at Prolific Prep Academy. He played at 4 NCAA schools beginning with the University of Nevada averaging 3,0ppg and 2,1rpg. He then played a season at the University of Arizona (NCAA) averaging 9.4ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 56.4%, FT: 59.8%. He then played 2 seasons at the University Louisiana at Lafayette (NCAA) saveraging 15.3ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 61.9% and 19.3ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.8apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 61.3%. He finished his NCAA career at the University of Memphis (NCAA) averaging 4.0ppg, 2.2rpg. he spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.

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

I’m in Brno, Czech Republic. Basketball is going well for me right now.

Your playing your first season with Basket Brno (Czech Republic-NBL). What kind of experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

It has been a blessing, I’m grateful for the opportunity to play. I’ve enjoyed being able to play at a high level and bond with my team.

The team is holding it´s own and competing for the title in the NBL. What is special about the squad that you believe will help propel it to more success?

I think the team is well connected both on and off the court, which Carrie’s over into the games.

How valuable has it been having Ethan Chargois on board. The guy has more pro experience and is a fellow big. How has helped you best with the transition?

It’s been a blessing to have a fellow American who has experience already overseas. He helped me to adjust easier having someone who can also relate to being away from home.

You are putting up the same kind of dominant stats in the ENBL that you had in the NCAA in your last 2 seasons. What has been the secret to adjusting so well?

Keeping God at the front of everything, continuing to work and be hungry and competitive. Focusing on the goal and not the accomplishments along the way.

You began the season with KK Dubrava Furnir Zagreb (Croatia-Premijer Liga). Why was that stay so short?

It was decided it was best for me and the team for me to play elsewhere.

What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Being greeted in a different language by locals and not able to read the signs to buildings around the city.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 211cm big man. Are you more a 4 or 5 player? I can play both 4 and 5 You fill the stat sheet excellently. Is it fair to say that you’re a modern day big man?

Yes I am a mix between a modern and traditional big man. Versatile and fundamental.

Your such a versatile player. What would you classify as your biggest strength?

My fundamental, reading the game, and aggression

Your also an impact defender. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I am an active defender who enjoys the defensive end as much as the offensive end. I still want to be more consistent on stopping guards on the perimeter

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

Continuing to improve on extending my range, as well as increasing my knowledge of the game

You played at 4 NCAA schools. How valuable was it getting to play at 4 schools instead of 1. Did that experience help you become so versatile?

It gave me a feel for different environments, cultures, and coaching styles. I think the experience helped me to mature as a player, as well as a person

played at the The University of Nevada (NCAA) from 2018-2019 averaging 3.0ppg, 2.1rpg. I think you experienced much that season. You reached the NCAA tournament and were teammates with the Martin brothers. What positives could you get from that time?

I was able to see the leadership a team needs and the consistency of great players.

Your minutes stat line looked like an NBA stat line for some players. Some games you played 20 plus minutes while other games maybe 4-5 minutes. How tough was this fluctuation mentally?

It was a challenge for me in my freshman year, but it also taught me to have to strive through adversity.

You then were at the University of Arizona (NCAA) from 2019-2021 during Covid and played one season averaging 9.4ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 56.4%, FT: 59.8%. How important was this season in your development? You were efficient in 19 minutes of time. How did Sean Miller help develop your game better?

He allowed me an opportunity to develop and grow into a more consistent role going into college while playing at a high level being in the pac 12. Blessed to receive 6th man of the year in the pac 12 conference.

You then moved again this time to the University Louisiana at Lafayette (NCAA) averaging 15.3ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 61.9% and 19.3ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.8apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 61.3%. Was this one of the best basketball decisions in your life going there?

It was a great decision, and I think it helped me improve and expand my game.

You made a big jump in your game in your last season. How did your game grow under Bob Marlin?

Coach Marlin allowed me to play my game. He put faith in my playing abilities, leadership, and what I could do to help the team win, and I’m glad it was able to work out well for everyone.

What was your fondest moment there? You always played great against Texas State and had great games against LCU and Arkansas State. What was your best game in those 2 years?

My best memory was winning the Conference tournament, earning us a spot in the NCAA tournament.

You have played so many games in your career, but is the 58-55 loss to Tennessee State, your last game there one of those games you haven´t forgotten?

It’s a game that I wish would’ve went the other way, but still enjoyed the experience of getting there with my team.

You then added on another season with the University of Memphis (NCAA) averaging 4.0ppg, 2.2rpg. How tough was it coming from Louisiana where you were Mr dominnat to having a smaller role at Memphis? What positives could you get out of the situation?

It was a lot, but once again, it taught me to be strong in times of trials

What was like learning from Penna Hardaway? What kind of a coach was he and did he share any classic NBA stories with Shaq?

It was great seeing the passion of a former nba great. He talk edabout how Shaq would demand the ball in the paint, and how Penny made sure him and shaq had a great relationship.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Naeqwan Tomlin?

We didn’t play or match up

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

Kenny Lofton jr

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Enjoyed all of my teammates

Who is your goat?

Lebron

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

Didn’t see it

Thanks Jordan for the chat.

Tre Mitchell (206-F-2000, college: Kentucky) is a 24 year old 206cm forward that was born in Bamberg and grew up in Woodstock, Conn. He is playing his rookie season in Germany with the Basketball Loewen Braunschweig. He had the fortune to get early basketball experience at Elizabeth Forward high school and Woodstock Academy while also playing AAU ball. He then had the advantage of playing at 4 NCAA schools starting with the University of Massachusetts (NCAA) averaging 17.7ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.9apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 72.8% and 18.8ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 76.8%. He then played a season at The University of Texas (NCAA) averaging 8.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 53.9%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 80.0%, at the West Virginia University (NCAA) averaging 11.7ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 78.9% and finished at the University of Kentucky (NCAA) averaging 10.7ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 59.5%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 74.4%. Last summer he played with the Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA Summer League in Las Vegas) averaging 6.0ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 57.1%, FT: 28.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Tre for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season in Germany with the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig. What does it mean playing in the country that you were born in?

It’s a unique opportunity for me. A full circle moment to be born here and then return much later in life and learn so much about the German lifestyle.

You beat Bamberg at home and will play in Bamberg in March 2025. Is that date marked in your calendar?

Not circled but I’m looking forward to it. Right now I’m focusing one game at a time trying to make sure our team stays on the right track and winning games to the best of our ability.

What kind of an experience has it been playing with the Basketball lowen Braunschweig organization. What have you enjoyed most about the experience so far?

It’s been very different from what I’ve been used to. There was a lot of adapting I had to do at first but it has taught me a lot about myself and the direction I want my career to go in. So far I’ve enjoyed experiencing a new way of life in Europe, and building relationships with my teammates and learning about the way they’ve experienced life much different to what I’m used to.

Did you talk or meet owner Dennis Schroeder?

I’ve met him and had a short conversation. He seems like a very genuine dude that just wants to see the success of his program and those involved in it.

Growing up how did you follow the career of Dennis Schroeder? Looking back how do you have him in your mind? Did he standout or was he just another of many great talented guards playing in the NBA?

I wouldn’t say I followed him in particular but I was always aware of the presence he carried within the league. I always saw him as a tough nosed guard who can guard extremely well and has a dog mentality and competitive drive.

The Lowen is a very special team that gives Germans playing time and a very talented coach in Jesus Ramirez. How much potential does the team have and how far can it go?

We have every piece we need to be successful in this league. We’ve competed with the top teams and we are getting better everyday. I think we will set our own limitations this season. I truly believe there isn’t a team we can’t beat in this league.

The team has so many talented German players. Is there one player that has stood out most for you?

Sanada Fru has stood out a lot to me, for being a young guy he’s been a great part of our team. Getting things done on both ends of the floor. He’s capable of playing 5 or 4, his versatility and ability to impact a game I think goes unnoticed sometimes but he really is a huge part of our success.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 206cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say where my game currently is, it would be a player like Al Horford who can play 4 or 5 and do a little bit of everything.

You are a very agile and very elegant player. How much of a modern day big man are you?

Everyone has their own idea of a modern day big, I look at myself as a player who you can put into any situation and I’ll find a way to get the job done. Being versatile has always been something I’ve relied on heavily. You never know what situation you’ll be put into so why not be ready for anything.

You’re a very versatile player and can do so much. But besides being versatile, what would you say is your biggest strength on the floor?

My basketball intelligence, the ability to read and react and get people to move into places I want them to in order to capitalize.

Your three pointer is still up and down. You shot 40% in Fiba Cup, but are under 30% in the BBL. What do you believe is missing to becoming a consistent shooter over 40%?

Just extra work, I’ve been able to shoot my whole career it’s just a matter of getting it consistent everyday so I’ll continue to work and get to the breakthrough of the consistency I know I’m capable of.

Where would you describe your defensive game as being at right now? Are you still a bit raw? You averaged 1,0 block per game at UMass and Kentucky and are near that again as a rookie.

I think my defense is solid, but I still have improving to do. At times I’m capable of switching and guarding 1-5 but it’s a matter of getting that consistency to be able to do it every possession if needed. I still have room to improve laterally to reach my full potential. My basketball iq keeps me in the right position majority of the time, so it’s just a matter of understanding my opponent and using my size to my advantage.

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

Conditioning. I think is the biggest piece for me right now, just being able to impact every possession I’m out on the floor. With the right conditioning, it will bring about the consistency I need to continue to produce each game.

You had a very rare experience of playing at 5 NCAA schools. I can´t remember ever interviewing a guy that played at 5. I know I did guys who played at 4. How did this experience shape you as a player and man?

Well, I played at 4, but each place brought about new experiences and new learning opportunities. It helped me understand coaches and players at different levels and be able to interpret how they understand and see the game. I was fortunate to play for two hall of fame coaches so learning from them has equipped me with another level of understanding the game and what it takes to be part of a great team.

How beneficial were your first 2 years playing for Matt McCall? You were thrown into cold water as a freshman and led the team in scoring. That doesn´t happen often for incoming players.

They were extremely beneficial for my experience and confidence. McCall trusted me with the keys and allowed me to come in and make an immediate impact. He saw the value in me as a player and ultimately it worked out on the court.

Especially that first season you had so many great games, but in losing causes. What did you learn about your self in that freshman season?

I learned my ability to compete at a high level with guys much older than me, but it also reinforced the idea that scoring isn’t everything, basketball is a team game and without the right game plan and execution by players, games are still won as a team.

In your third season you played at the University of Texas (NCAA) averaging 8.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 53.9%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 80.0%. You came the year after many guys reached the NBA. How did your game grow under Chris Beard?

Playing for Beard helped me realize the game away from the basketball, putting yourself in the right position to score and impact games while moving without the ball, creating actions for your teammates and making defenses make multiple adjustments.

In the 2022-2023 season you made another move going to West Virginia University (NCAA) averaging 11.7ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 78.9%. You reached the big dance losing to Maryland while scoring 13 points. What memories do you have of that season?

It was one of my favorite seasons, I was surrounded by a lot of good people and great coaches that I really enjoyed playing for. I created a lot of relationships I still carry with me today and will for the rest of my life. The state of West Virginia showed a lot of love to us and I thoroughly enjoyed playing for them. Most of my memories involve me with my teammates and competing at the coliseum with the infectious energy of the crowd.

You had the great pleasure to play for legend Bob Huggins. How did your game grow under him?

Huggs instilled a lot of confidence in my game, after a rough season at Texas, he stuck his neck out for me and gave me another chance to show everyone what I was capable of. He taught me a lot on the defensive side of the ball, being in the right position, and really pushing the idea of team defense. When you know your team has your back you become a better defender. My skillset grew under him as well, I spent a lot of time developing my perimeter game and becoming even more versatile.

You then played a fifth season at the University of Kentucky (NCAA) averaging 10.7ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 59.5%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 74.4%. You reached the Big Dance again losing to Oakland 80-76 but producing a 14/13 game. Was this one of the tougher loses in your NCAA career?

Definitely one of the more heartbreaking losses of my career, I knew it was my last chance to make a run, and I just didn’t get to. Especially when I felt like the team we lost to had no business beating us. I felt like I could’ve done more on the offensive end of that game, but obviously with younger guys it was harder to get everyone on the same page in order for us to win.

You were teammates with 3 very special guards with Antonio Reeves, Reed Sheppard and Rob Dilligham. So far none have had their NBA break though. What guy do you feel like will make it this season?

I believe all 3 of them will succeed, they’re very skilled and talented players willing to play on both ends of the ball. They have everything they need to be successful, it’s just going to be a matter of time when they get their opportunity to show what they can do.

How did legend John Calipari give you that last boost and help groom and prepare you for a pro career?

Cal helped me grow as a leader, understanding what it takes to get everyone on the same page. Sometimes I had to be the mediator between player and coach and get messages across to both sides. He also helped me mentally, he challenges you everyday and tries to get you to break preparing you for the next stage of your career. One of the things I remember vividly was him saying to me “I love coaching you because no matter how hard I try, I can never get a reaction out of you”

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Justin Edwards?

I’d say it would depend on what part of the court we got the ball on. He’s talented and capable of making some tough shots, but so am I.

You played NBA Summer League with the Oklahoma Thunder. How cool was that experience? How big is the NBA a focus for you?

It was an okay experience I’d say, unfortunately I picked the only team to take extra guys to the summer league so I didn’t feel like I really got a chance to showcase my abilities. However it was cool seeing many of the guys I grew up playing with and against. Obviously the NBA would be my dream destination, but I have to keep working hard and everything else will fall into place exactly how it’s supposed to.

What was the coolest meeting or sighting you made in Las Vegas concerning an NBA legend?

I don’t really think there was anyone particular who stood out to me, but it was cool playing some pick up games with the top guys from the Thunder’s main team.

Who were some of the best players that you battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Other than the guys on my Kentucky team last year, I would say guys like Obi Toppin and Chet.

Please name your 5 bets teammates of all-time?

In no particular order

Erik Stevenson

Emmit Mathews Jr

Reed Sheppard

Rob Dillingham

Noah Fernandes

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron

KD

Paul George

Larry Bird

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron

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

I actually haven’t seen the sequel, the first one was good and I heard some bad reviews about the second so I never watched it.

Thanks Tre for the chat,

Bodie Hume (198-G-1999, college: N.Colorado) is a 25 year old 198cm guard from Sterling, Colorado playing his third season and second in Germany with the Telekom Baskets Bonn currently averaging9,1ppg, 3,6rpg and 1,3apg and is shooting 35% from outside.Last season he played with BG Goettingen (Germany-BBL) averaging 12.2ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 66.2%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 64.1%;and in the FIBA Europe Cup averaged 5.7ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 19.6%, FT: 52.9%. He played his rookie season with Boras Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 14.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 68.3%. He began his basketball career at Sterling high school and then played at the University Of Northern Colorado (NCAA) from 2018-2022 playing a total of 122 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops,com about basketball.

Thanks Bodie for talking togermanhoops.com Congrats on signing with ambitious easyCredit BBL team Telekom Baskets Bonn. You lost both league games against Bonn with BG Goettingen last season, but the team as a whole played a lot better in the second game despite experiencing the loud Bonn crowd. What stood out in that special atmosphere?

I think that when we played Bonn the first time we were still learning our way to play as a team. Once we played Bonn the second time we were a lot better as a team and that was a big reason for the difference between the two. It was very cool to see how many fans were there to support the Baskets and cheer them on. Overall the Bonn atmosphere was awesome to see.

You have made further steps in your career going from Sweden to a top league in Europe and now to a better known team than Goettingen. Was Bonn the most logical step for you?

I’ve been very blessed to be able to play at such a high level only a few years into professional basketball. Bonn is a great step in the right direction. Not only for my career, but I believe I can really grow and develop as a basketball player and pro in Bonn.

What do you appreciate most about the Telekom Baskets Bonn organization besides it´s professionalism and fan support?

I agree that Bonn shows amazing professionalism in everything they do. The coaching staff has really helped me out well before I get there, as well as the front office has been great in answering any questions I have and has been awesome with working on getting everything ready for my family. The fans have also been very welcoming and the community around basketball there is special.

How did the talks go with head coach Roel Moors? What did you instantly like about his basketball philosophy?

The talks with Coach Moors went great. He was very open with what he would like to accomplish with me this year and what he sees for this team. Our goals are the same for this upcoming season and I am excited to get over there and really start working with him and his whole staff. His basketball philosophy is exactly how I want to play. We play hard, we play fast, and we really want to defend this year!

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 198cm guard. If you had to compare your game bets to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I personally would like to play basketball like Paul George, very fluid and smooth but a master of his craft. However I know I am not there yet, so the best comparison I could give is maybe a Gordon Hayward currently, athletic shooter that can fits a system well.

You’re a really good shooter. What other areas in your offensive game sparkle the most in your game besides offensive rebounding?

I think you pretty much summed it up currently. I think I bring a great shooting presence and always want to rebound to the best of my availability. I think I do bring a shot blocking presence to our defensive end and want to be able to switch on anyone this year.

Coach Moors respects your offensive rebounding a lot. You averaged 6,6 rebounds per game in your last 2 years in the NCAA. Was rebounding always a strength or was it very much improved at Northern Colorado?

I think Northern Colorado has helped me become a better rebounder, and and I also think that as I have grown and matured I have learned more ways to get rebounds then just trying to outjump people.

You made big steps as a shooter in your first 2 pro seasons. Is your biggest goal this season to be a consistent three pointer shooter and hold that 40% range?

Yeah I think for any shooter consistency is key and I hope that I can have that consistency. Shooting the ball well is more than just repetition, it’s about having unlimited confidence in yourself and always thinking that ball is going in the basket.

You’re a tall and athletic wing. How would you describe your defensive game now and where do you want to be as a defender in the next years?

I would say that I can hold my own for the most part defensively. I am always trying to get better at defending shifty guards as well as forwards that are bigger than me. I want to be able to help my team defend in any way possible. I just try my best out there.

You’re a really good shooter, but are still finding your mark at the free throw line. Is free throw shooting possibly a mental issue in your case more than anything else.

As I said earlier shooting isn’t all just repetition you have to be very confident in your ability to shoot free throws and I have actually been working on that a lot this summer with competitive free throws so that I can be more consistent in that as well.

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

I’m trying to work on my ability to make reads off the ball and find the open guy more. As I grow I really would like to see the game better, whether it is making the right pass or looking to attack the rim instead of shoot. I also am working on developing a pull up 2 game because I have really struggled with that in the past.

Last season you played with BG Goettingen (Germany-BBL) averaging 12.2ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 66.2%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 64.1%; and in FIBA Europe Cup averaged 5.7ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 19.6%, FT: 52.9%. You played a very solid BBL season, but struggled in the Fiba Europe Cup. What did you learn about yourself last season as a player making this experience?

I think that I had a bad approach to the Europe Cup and overall realized that we as a team need to win and play well in all basketball games. So this year I’d like to focus on one game at a time and really work hard between each game.

You had some real memorable games last season twice against Heidelberg and once against Chemnitz. What game did you enjoy most?

I think that we had a lot of exciting games this year. Heidelberg, Crailsheim, Chemnitz all were awesome games for me. I think that all the games against Vechta were extremely fun because we competed very hard against them. But I think my favorite game was the Braunschweig game in Göttingen. With it being a derby and us pulling out a win was very special.

You played your rookie season with Boras Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 14.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 68.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a pro player overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Yeah I think for any American moving over to play basketball in Europe can be difficult. While at Boras I didn´t feel as though I struggled too much with homesickness because I had my wife there with me and was accepted quickly by my teammates. Those guys are some of my really good friends. They were a great team for me to start my career just because of all the things I learned on and off the court.

What was it like being teammates with Christopher McKnight? Was he like a mentor for you?

Being teammates with Chris was awesome. He started his career in Boras the same as me so I would always pick his ear on how his career path went and what he would change. On the court he taught me how to use my athleticism and body against defenders in order to finish better. And in return I taught him how to finally shoot the ball. (Just joking he could shoot)

You got your first playoff experience winning 2 series and then losing a tough 6 game series to Norrkoping. What will you always remember most from that series?

I’ll remember a lot of things about that series. They handed us our only home losses of the season in the finals. You can always look back and wish you had played better so that what I do most often.

You played at the University of Northern Colorado from 2018-2022. You had so many great games there. What was your most memorable moment on the court in the NCAA?

I think my most memorable moment was giving the best team in the nation trouble. We got to play Arizona my senior year and we were able to be in a very close game until late in the second half. Now that was a fun game.

In your senior year your teammate Daulton Knecht averaged 8,9ppg and in the next season 21,0ppg and was drafted by the Lakers. Did you already see that future greatness with him when you were there?

I think a lot of people knew Dalton was a special talent with his build and athleticism. He has always been a very good basketball player and has a great ability at getting to his spots. I’m really happy he got drafted and am excited to watch how well he does in the NBA.

How vital was it playing for 2 coaches at Northern Colorado from Jeff Linder and Steve Smiley? How did they groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Both coach Linder and coach Smiley helped me tremendously throughout my time at UNCO. They taught me so much offensively and defensively I am very thankful for them. They had always ran a European style of offense so it was relatively easy for me to make the jump.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dalton Knecht?

I don’t think Dalton and I ever played 1-1 but we would go at each other constantly in practice. I’d say overall we were pretty level. I haven’t been around him in a while so I{ guess we won’t know really who would win today.

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

I’ve been able to play against so many great players that I can’t just name one. All those guys that have made it to the league have been successful.

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

That’s a really tough question because I have had some great teammates. I’ll have to say all my old teammates in Sweden are up there, but they count as one. I have become good friends with Osaro Rich so I’ll put him in there. I also got Zach Ensminger, Grant Antecivich, Fedor Zugic, and now my new teammates. There are just too many to give only five.

What is your personal NBA mount rushmore of past or present heads?

Give me Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, Kevin Durant, and give me Carmelo Anthony.

Who is your GOAT and why?

Michael Jordan is my GOAT, I just think what he was able to do on the court against the teams and players he played against was something very special and puts him over the top.

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

I did see the sequel and I agree the first one was unmatched compared to the second one

Thanks Bodie for the chat.

pic credit: eyoleon

Fischer (208-PF-1999) is a 25 year old 208cm center playing his fourth season with the TSV Oberaching Tropics. He began his career with IBAM and also played with Regionalliga team MTSV Friendsfactory Schwabing. He then played 2 seasons with Wurzburg playing 3 easyCredit BBL games and also with the farm team averaging 7/3 and 9/4. He then played a season with the Nurnberg Falcons averaging 2/2. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 89-85 win over the RheinStars Cologne.

Congrats on the big 89-85 win at home against top team RheinStars. How big was this win?

It was a big win for us. The Rheinstars are one of the top teams in the Pro B. Being able to annoy them and win was a huge success for us.

You got revenge after losing 90-86 in Cologne less than a month ago. How big was the revenge factor for the team?

We were very annoyed with our loss in Cologne. We didn´t play well the last few minutes before half-time. They got out on a big lead. We had to play catch up basketball the whole second half. We fought hard and made it close, but lost. We shouldn´t have let it come to that.

Oberaching must still have been very confident going in. You hit 14 three´s and had 15 offensive rebounds in the loss in Cologne.

We feel very confident being an underdog. We have nothing to lose and like to play at home with the support of our fans. They do a great job pushing us.

What was the game plan going? What does one have to do to win besides trying to control the dynamic duo of Hennen and Rohwer?

They are their key players. Hennen is a great point guard who carries them and leads them. Rohwer is big and a good rebounder. We wanted to control the rebounds and play together. We did a good job not getting lost with their pressure.

Oberaching had a great start leading 11-1, but then let up a bit to come back and trail only 19-18. Were you a bit surprised how well you started as a team?

I wasn´t surprised. Everything began perfect for us. Philipp Bode began strong making a few buckets. Getting a start like that against a top team is always a help, but they did fight back.

17 year old young German Davi Remagen began hot and finished with a Pro B personal high 26 points. How big was his 40 plus points in the NBBL last weekend for his self confidence?

Having self confidence is always vital for young players. Having a strong NBBL game will help and the coaches notice. He went into the game on a high after his big NBBL game and just played and didn´t think much.

How talented is Davi Remagen? Where do you see his journey going to?

That’s not easy to predict. He is a very good player. We will see.

The RheinStars had the slim 43-40 advantage at halftime. Ruppert Hennen gave them some good energy as did Jannis Von Seckendorf. How annoying is it playing against a player like Seckendorf?

It is never easy when he is on the court. He makes the game fast and aggressive.

In the third quarter the guests went on a run, but Oberaching punched back with a run to lead 62-60 after 3 quarters. How vital are the fighting qualities of the team and how have they grown this season?

We are a team that have played together for years and are friends off the court. That chemistry shows on the court. We are always helping each other out on the court and fight for each other. We never worry about our stats, but play to win. The will to win is big for us.

Omari Knox and Janosch Kogler made big baskets. Where would the team be without these 2 ultimate warriors?

They have been the key players for us for years. They are key for helping the young players as well. We give them the ball when we need to win in close games. They have so much experience.

What did head coach Mario Matic tell the team to do going into the fourth quarter?

He told us that we are in the game. He told us that he wanted us to fight until the end. We had a big chance to win. It wasn´t like in Cologne where we had to come back.

Did the quick Oberaching start in the fourth quarter and three´s by Schuler, Knox and Kogler seal the win? They never got over the hump?

We didn´t think about it. That quick start gave us security. We knew that we had to react quickly, because they are a good team.

What was the biggest strength of the TSV Tropics Oberaching on this afternoon?

I think that our team play was our biggest strength. We did a good job playing inside out basketball. We defended well and didn´t get hurt by their pressure.

You had a solid 8/5 game in 26 minutes. Is that a performance you can live with?

To be honest, I´m most happy when we win. I personally was annoyed with 2 shots that I missed that I usually make. That annoys me more than anything.

Oberaching next battles Rhondorf. You lost a shootout at home where 223 points were scored. How bitter was that loss?

That was a very bitter loss. We gave up way too many points in that game. We defended very well against the RheinStars and want to build on that performance and take that energy to Rhondorf.

Will guarding the three point line be a key to win? They made 17 three´s in that game.

Yes that will be important. We have to be aggressive on the three point line, but also not forget to defend in the zone.

How excited will you be to play? You missed the first game? Do you see yourself having a big game?

I may get more touches against them. I may see more double teams. I´m looking forward to the game.

Thanks Fynn for the chat.