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Versatile Josh Harris Is An Underrated Defender Who Knows How To Win Titles

Josh Harris (196-F, college: Illinois Coll.) is a 196cm guard that was briefly overseas in Germany for his rookie season with the TuS59 Hamm Stars and team Nikola Tesla in Hamburg. He played at Illinois College (NCAA3) form 2021-2025 playing a total of 98 games. In his freshman season he averaged 5.0ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 61.1%. In his second season he averaged 12.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 60.8%. In his junior season he averaged 13.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 63.7% and as a senior averaged 15.2ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 74.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.

Thanks Josh for talking to germanhoops.com. How blessed do you feel to be playing overseas? Not many former NCAA 3 players get a chance to become professional?

I am extremely blessed with all glory to God. And yes I know there aren´t many people from division 3 but there have been some and I always thought I was next.

Your playing your rookie season with TuS 59 HammStars (Germany-Regionalliga). What did you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

If you want to be honest before looking it up I knew not a lot but watching some youtube videos I found out that Germany along with some other countries is a good starting point to begin your career

Did you ever have former teammates or opponents ball in overseas?

Yes I have a bunch of former opponents and teammates that currently play overseas to name a few Troy Burrows is in China, Keenon Cole is in the Czech republic, and Duane Goodman is heading to Malta.

What were the main reasons for you joining TuS 59 HammStars (Germany-Regionalliga). What really stood out for you most about this organization?

I love how professional they are with things. When I talked to coach they had dreams on being champions and I like to compete for championships when I play.

How did the talks go with head coach Ivan Rosic? What did you appreciate instantly about his basketball philosophy?

I love my talks with coach Rosic. He let me know right away their expectations are to win a championship and let me know clearly what my role would be on the team when I got here. Love how he talked about offense will come, we want to be the best defensive team in the league.

You had a great college career. In the German Regionalliga it is the imports that usually have to carry the team. Do you feel any pressure?

I would be lying if I said I didn’t feel any pressure but I trust the work I put in to get to this point and the work I’m going to continue to put in throughout the season.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say I play a lot like Austin Reaves a combo guard who can play on or off ball

Coach Ivan Rosic defines you as a great leader. How developed did you leadership skills get at Illinois College where you won 2 MWC titles?

I would say my last two years in school, I was considered one of the leaders so if I wanted to or not I had to be the one to push my teammates to be the best they can be every day.

You’re a guy that fills the stat sheet well. How much of a versatile player would you describe yourself?

I would consider myself very versatile I can move off the ball and play that way but I am also a bigger point guard who can control the offense and create for others

Is it fair to say that your 3 pointer is still a work in progress? What is your biggest goal this season with your outside shooting?

I would say just being confident in my shot. If you check I shot almost 40% from 3 my junior year of college and senior year I just lost a little bit of confidence in it but I know I can shoot the ball at a high level.

How would you describe your defensive game? Is it fair to say that your still a raw defender? What kind of a defender would you call yourself now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I would say my defense is a very underrated part of my game. I would say yes I would love to improve to be better but I am not a liability on that end of the floor. If you check high school and college my teams are some of the best defenses in the state or nation and I am a part of that. I would say I can hold my own on that end but I want to get to a point where you don’t even want the ball around me.

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

I would say my strength the game here is a lot more physical and I want to get stronger to last over here. I want to get more athletic and also want to improve my shooting.

You played at Illinois College (NCAA3) from 2021-2025 playing 98 games. You improved your scoring average each season. How did your game grow in your 4 years? What kind of a player were you in 2021 and what kind now?

I would say the game slowed down for me throughout my 4 years and understanding how to play within the system picking my spots. I would say I was strictly a slasher in 2021 trying to beat people with my speed and that’s it. Now I am scorer that knows when to shoot or drive and get to my spots.

You won 2 MWC titles. Which one was sweeter?

I would say the first one was sweeter from my sophomore year because it was the first time in school history so that was a special moment.

You had so many great games at Illinois College including a 30 point explosion against Wisconsin-Lutheran. What was your best game in school?

I would say my 36 point game against Knox I just feel like I showed all parts of my game in that game and we won with a clutch shot made by me.

How did head coach Steve Schweer groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

I would say just prepared me as a man to be out on my own in the real world.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jake Mazrimas?

Aye he won’t tell you but I won

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

No one in the NCAA reached that I played against but in high school I played against Max Christie

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Ben Vanderwal, Jake Mazrimas, Buzz Ritzel, Will Rogers, Jemari Moore

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe Bryant

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

I haven’t seen this

Thanks Josh for the chat.

Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye Somehow Powered Through It And Netted 50 Points In A Game In Iceland Despite Sleeping Only 3 Hours And Having A Runny Nose

Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye (193-G-1996, college: Bradley) is a 29 year old 196cm guard that has the British/French citizenship and currently is playing his third season with UMFN Njardvik (Iceland-Subway League). He also has experience having played in countries like Italy, France, Holland and Austria. He began his basketball career at the Bristol Flyers and then played at Bradley University (NCAA) and played a total of 129 NCAA games. He spoke togermanhoops.com after scoring 50 points in a first division game in Austria.

Congrats on scoring 50 points in a win over Armann. What does it personally mean to you to score 50 points?

The most important thing for me was getting the win but afterwards looking back at it, it felt really good. Not many people can say they’ve reached 50 points in a professional match and my assistant coach informed me afterwards I am only 1 of 5 people in club history to reach the milestone so it’s nice to join the club

You were never that explosive scorer before you came to Iceland. Did 50 points surprise you a bit that you could be capable of a feat like that?

I feel like I’ve always been capable of being an explosive scorer but throughout my journey as a professional I’ve had to take on different roles at different times for the betterment of the team. I knew if there was a game this season in which I was feeling it early I would have a chance to have a big night. It was just my night that night and ended up going for 50.

There is a side story to your milestone. On the stats there was 48 points but you really scored 50 points. What happened exactly?

So on the paper I had 50 but on the online stats it was 48. But after, the game was reviewed and we learnt that human error on the table gave a dunk of mine in the 3rd Q to my big man Dominykas Milka. It’s crazy because we don’t look the same but the federation amended the issue and confirmed that yes it was in fact 50.

How strange is it knowing you had 50 points despite ending the game thinking you had 48 points?

It was weird because I just wanted to know the truth and know for sure which it was, but we got the 2 points on the league table for the win so that was all I really cared about.

Did you have anything different for breakfast or change something on your routine to amass so many points?

The crazy thing is I was sick the last few days in practice and wasn’t able to do too much in the sessions. I maybe slept only 3 hours the night before the game with headaches and a runny nose. But with a playoff push needed for the end of the season I knew how much we needed to win and just tried to power through. And I was able to do it much better than I could have imagined. I guess there’s some magic in a flu game.

How were you feeling going into the game with your game? You had had 31 points in the previous game and scored 30 points or more 6 times in the season going in?

My coach and teammates do a great job giving me confidence and telling me to be aggressive in games. Coming off the international break you’re sometimes not sure if they’ll be rusty or not. But we had a game plan to attack some weaknesses Arman had and I knew if we executed it would be a good game.

How quickly did you know in the game that you might have a great scoring game?

I think I knew at halftime, when my team mate came up and joked that he’d buy me lunch if I scored 50. ‘I was like what do you mean 50?’ Then he let me know that I had 24 points, which surprised me. But maybe the added motivation helped me get it. Safe to say I will be getting that lunch from him.

The team had 22 team assists and you had 6 assists. How much of your scoring would you say was done on isolation?

I wouldn’t say too much scoring is done in isolation, we have certain actions to try and punish the defense or put them in uncomfortable situations so we just try to focus on that.

How blessed are you to have such a talented big man in Dominykas Milka who had 8 assists in your feat?

It’s a privilege to play with a big man like Milka. He’s selfless and willing to do whatever it is for the team. He sets great screens, does all the little things and is a beast on the rebounds. You add the playmaking too, he’s easily one of the most underappreciated players in the league. Playing now multiple seasons with him we’ve built a good chemistry and it shows in how many easy baskets he gave me.

Did you know in the fourth quarter that you were close to 50 points?

When I got to 45 I knew, we had a timeout and some of the young guys on the bench let me know and just kept saying ‘you’re almost at 50’

What was your favorite own basket of the game?

I would say my last free throw gave me 50. We’d pretty much sealed the game now, I subbed out and my coach and team mates gave me a big hug and I could relax and really take in what had just taken place. It was my first 50 point game in my career so it felt nice to know it’s something I’ve accomplished.

Did you get any unique congrats via phone or social media after the game?
Nothing crazy, just a bunch of messages from friends and family that were happy about the moment.

Did you have to get donuts for the team?


No donuts but I’ll have to bring in something for sure for everyone.

Thanks Dwayne for the chat.

Birthday Boy Julian Larry Knew His Classic Game Winning Shot Was Going In Shocking The Hakro Merlins 78-76

pic credit: Angel Media

Julian Larry (190-G, college: Texas) is a 190cm guard from Texas playing his rookie season overseas in Germany with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. He began the season with Munster averaging 12,3ppg, 1,9rpg, 3,6aqpg and 1,4spg. He began his basketball career at Lone Star High School and then played at Indiana State (NCAA) from 2020-2024 amassing a total of 128 games. He then added an extra season with the University Of Texas. He spoke to germanhoops.com after beating top team Hakro Merlins with the 78-76 game winner.

Congrats birthday boy Julian on helping the EPG Baskets Koblenz gain a massive come from behind win over the Hakro Merlins. Could this be the turning point of the season?

This could be the turning point of the season for sure. It just shows how together we were as a team and what can happen. This win is something that we can build off.

Was this today one of your best birthdays ever?

This was one of my best birthdays that I had recently. I don´t think that I have ever played on my birthday before.

Did you have specifically a special Birthday breakfast that sparked your play?

It was nothing out of the ordinary. It was a normal routine just preparing for the game.

You told me a few weeks ago that your biggest wish was to help the EPG Baskets Koblenz make the playoffs. You weren´t kidding after your performance tonight. You left it all out on the court.

For sure we grinded this win out. It was a great ending to a game where we grinded all night long.

Was this your biggest win in your professional career so far?

Of course. I haven´t had so many yet as a rookie.

The loss to the RheinStars was tough. Did you guys have a type of team meeting after that loss?

We understood that we could of played better against them, but they did play a really good game. We just wanted to learn from our mistakes and give a better effort in Crailsheim.

With what kind of a mindset did the team come to Crailsheim. After the brutal loss to Cologne, I think the fewest believed a win could be possible? How were the spirits of the players?

Our spirits were like any other game. We knew of the task at hand. When you play against a really good team like Crailsheim, you always have to be prepared and we were.

There was no quick start by Crailsheim, but Koblenz was right there in the first quarter trailing only 23-21. Did you a different kind of body language in comparison to the RheinStars game?

I would say so. We struck through it and never gave in.

The Hakro Merlins led 43-36 at half-time. Koblenz mostly had an answer when they punched, but lost some steam in the last minutes. What did head coach Stephan Dohrn tell the team to do better in the second half?

He told us that we had a really good first half. We had to be better prepared against their ball coverage as they made minor adjustments in the second quarter. He also wanted us to get our offense flowing again.

Tyrese Blunt made big baskets the whole night. What was like battling him in the trenches?

It was a good battle. I had already played against him with Munster. I knew that he was a really good player and moves really well. He just made plays.

In the third quarter the Hakro Merlins led by as much as 12 points, but Koblenz never gave up and hurled a 11-0 run at Crailsheim. How big was that will to keep fighting? Was it the best that you have seen since you arrived?

I would say so. We never stopped fighting against adversary and we never gave in. We knew that we had to be really alert, because they feed off opponents mistakes. We just took it possession by possession. We never lost that next play mentality.

In the fourth quarter Koblenz began with a 5-0 run to dead lock the contest at 60-60, but Crailsheim punched back with a 9-0 run to lead 69-60 with 4,49 to play. What was going through your mind at that moment?

We just kept making plays. Our mindset wasn´t too crazy at that time.

The runs kept coming with 7 points from Koblenz and then a 7-0 run by Crailsheim to lead 76-67 with 1,51 to play. Were you feeling confident? I mean you had come back the whole game?

We knew we had to keep putting pressure on them. That led to turnovers which resulted in easy baskets for us.

Koblenz then strung along stops and scored 11 unanswered points to win. Badu Buck hit a big three pointer to tie the game at 76-76. How key was the momentum at this moment? Do you feel like Crailsheim was feeling some uncertainty?

I don´t know if they felt uncertain, but you could feel the momentum shift when Badu made that basket. We made them pay. It was like looking down and then up again and the game was tied at 76-76.

You then won the game with a bucket. Take me through that last play?

I mean there wasn´t much time left with 7 seconds. I just ran downhill and planted my feet and let it rip as it landed off the back board and went in.

Did you know that your shot was going in?

Of course. It felt good.

Did you want to bank it in?

At first no, but when I released it and from the angle I had, that was the only choice to happen.

What do you believe did the team learn from this win tonight?

We learned that when you stick through adversary then you can be really good.

Will you get donuts for the team?

Yes I will.

Thanks Julian for the chat.

Lukas Milner(Tigers Tuebingen) Is Thankful That Henrik Sonko Helped Him Understand The Chess Match That Goes On In European Basketball

Lukas Milner (208-C-2000, college: Boise St., agency: One Motive Sports) is a 25y ear old 208cm forward from Kansas playing his third professional season and first with the Tigers Tuebingen (Germany-ProA) averaging 8,6ppg, 4,9rpg and 1,3apg.. Last season he played with Boras Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 9.0ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 61.8%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 55.4%. He played his rookie season with BC Prievidza (Slovakia-Nike SBL) averaging 11.8ppg, Reb-2 (8.2rpg), 1.3apg, Blocks-3 (1.8bpg), FGP-1 (71.5%), 3PT: 23.7%, FT: 53.1%. He also has experience playing twice with East Perth Eagles (Australia-NBL One) averaging 12.0ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.3apg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 54.5%, FT: 50.0% and 11.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 50.0%. he began his basketball career at Olathe North high school and then played 2 seasons with Johnson County Community College (JUCO) averaging 4.2ppg, 3.0rpg and 12.0ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 71.4%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 57.0%. He then played 3 seasons and 81 NCAA games with Boise State University (NCAA). He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.

Thanks Lukas for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with the Tigers Tuebingen. How blessed do you feel playing in Germany in your third pro season?

Thank you! I feel very blessed to continue playing the game I love as a job & I’m extremely blessed to get to do it abroad in a beautiful country. Very happy for the opportunity!

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

I know that Germany is quite strong in basketball, recently the national team has won some big tournaments & I know the German leagues are always strong. I’m interested to see if their style of play is different than elsewhere, & I’m interested to steal any ideas on how to play the game better.

Have you known any former teammates or opponents that have balled in Germany?

I’ve known a few guys from my college team who have played in Germany, they’ve seemed to report back that it’s good all around.

How much of a role did head coach Henrik Sonko play in your decision to come to the Tigers? He was your coach last season in Sweden with Boras

It was the main reason why I decided to come play for the tigers.

What do you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy? How did he help your game most last season?

I think to put it simply, the biggest thing I respect about him is that he’s going work as hard as he can to be the best coach he can be. I know it doesn’t sound like basketball philosophy, but as a player a hardworking coach is important to me. He and his staff helped me tremendously last year with really understanding the chess match that goes on in European basketball. I almost feel like a kid again learning such a fun game.

How blessed do you feel to playing more again? At Boise State you had limited minutes, but in Slovakia and Sweden it´s been more. How has your game grown?

I’m too happy to be playing basketball all the time. I’m thankful for the limited minutes because that frustration made me appreciate what I have now much more. My game has grown a lot in every direction, physically, mentally, skillfully, etc etc. I think now my main goal is to really hone in on what I’m really good at and learn how to use my advantages to beat the opponents consistently.

You learned sign language because you needed it for your family. How much a part of your life has sign language become overseas? Do you use it overseas?

Yes American Sign Language (ASL) is my first language, I used it at home growing up and even minored in it at college. I didn’t think it would be of use overseas because sign languages are different everywhere, but on my first stop in Slovakia I met a group of fans who were so welcoming and supportive. They taught me some of their Slovak sign language and they picked up quickly on ASL and we were quickly able to communicate. So now I try to make contact with the deaf communities in other countries to be exposed to different cultures. I hope to do the same in Germany.

Let´s talk about your game. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

This is always a hard question for me, as a kid I always liked Tim Duncan but I don’t think my game is like his. I’ve been compared to Maxi Kleber before, also a German guy I think.

You’re a physical big that likes the post up and pick and role game. What other strengths does your game have?

I think my biggest strength is my ability to run the floor against the big heavy guys. Also I hope to keep my voice as a strength on the defensive side of the floor, to help keep the other guys informed about things they can’t see. I hope to show that I can also stretch the floor this year.

You took little three´s in Sweden but in your rookie season took 76 three´s in Slovakia. Is the three pointer something you would like to develop further in Germany or could this be a season again where you don´t incorporate it much into your game?

Haha yes like I said in my previous comment I would definitely like to add that to my arsenal, I think it would be very huge if I was able to get that going consistently.

Talk a little about your defensive game. You’re a classic shot blocker. What kind of a defender do you still want to become in the future?

I would really like to be a guy who can guard everywhere on the floor, when I watch basketball the guys who catch my eye are the guys who just come up with stops after stops on defense. I think I’ve lacked lateral quickness in the past, I hope to improve that and also make up for it with my growing iq.

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

Offensively for sure working on the 3 point shot and of course free throws. I have to get that % up, can’t leave easy points on the table. Defensively I’m working on getting back some lost athleticism and growing my iq of the floor, I believe if I can better understand where pieces will be I can defend better.

Last season you played with Boras Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 9.0ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 61.8%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 55.4%. You played 15 playoff games. You went the distance in 7 games winning against BC Lulea, but lost in 5 games against Norrkoping. How tough was losing game 4 and 5 combined by only 3 points? What did you learn from that series?

It was very tough losing those tight games, for sure the biggest lesson is that in playoff basketball every possession matters throughout the game. Also just building playoff experience and understanding the grind of it was huge.

You also played twice with the East Perth Eagles (Australia-NBL) averaging 12.0ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.3apg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 54.5%, FT: 50.0% and 11.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 50.0%.What kind of an experience was that? Do you already have your ticket booked for a third time in 2026?

It was an interesting experience, the club and style of play wasn’t like most European teams but I will say I had a lot of fun. The people who had me come took good care of me and were very kind. Also being in Perth was really cool, definitely some of the best beaches I’ve ever seen.

You played your rookie season with #BC Prievidza (Slovakia-Nike SBL) averaging 11.8ppg, Reb-2 (8.2rpg), 1.3apg, Blocks-3 (1.8bpg), FGP-1 (71.5%), 3PT: 23.7%, FT: 53.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I didn’t have too much of a negative shock that other guys have, but I think being in a new culture was really cool to experience. I will say having the people around you speak a different language was interesting to get used to as an American. We definitely never experienced stuff like that growing up too much.

You won an exciting playoff series against Inter Bratislava, but then lost to Spisski Rytieri. What will you always remember from your first pro playoff series?

I think the game winner we had in game 7 of that inter game was an awesome experience. To have the home crowd go crazy was awesome.

You played 2 seasons at Johnson County Community College (JUCO) averaging 4.2ppg, 3.0rpg
and 12.0ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 71.4%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 57.0%. Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have stated that it was a real grind, but one they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

It was for sure a grind. I’m very glad I started at the juco level and worked my way up. Taught me a lot of life lessons.

How vital was head coach Mike Jeffers for your early basketball development. What did you soak up most form him?

He was a good coach to me, I’m glad I caught him right before he retired. I was like most lanky kids coming out of high school and I was soft. I hated how he set up his practices at the time but now I’m very happy with the toughness that was instilled in me. A lot of physicality and he never called fouls.

You played 3 seasons at Boise State University (NCAA). What memories do you have of reaching the NIT Elite 8 in 2021? You lost a tough battle to Memphis 59-56.

I mainly just remember it being covid times and being isolated throughout various times that year.

You won the 2022 MWC title against Wyoming, but then lost to Memphis again at March madness. Is Memphis one of those schools that you won´t ever forget?

Honestly I didn’t play much haha so not really.

How did head coach Leon Rice groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

I’m very happy for the opportunity I was given at Boise State. I learned a lot and it made me a better man. Extremely thankful for the struggles and lessons I learned over there. Don’t think I’d be me without that time there.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Mladen Armas?

Haha at Boise he’d crush me with his strength for sure. I think I got a bit stronger, I’d be curious who’d win now.

Who were the few toughest player that you ever faced that reached the NBA or Euroleague

Daeqwon Plowden

Please name your NBA, Euro and Spanish Mount Rushmore (4 best players of all-time)

LeBron, Jordan, Wilt, Steph

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron

Thanks Luke for the chat.

Jacob Washington Will Never Forget Giving His Mom A Matching Bracelet For Christmas That She Still Has To This Day

For Jacob Washington there is no better holiday in the world for him than Christmas. The Los Angeles native is playing his second season overseas and second season in Germany. As a rookie he balled in the north west part of Germany in Grevenbroich with New Elephants Grevenbroich averaging 19.5ppg, 9.4rpg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 73.3%. He played his last game as a rookie before the short Xmas break dismantling the Hamm Stars 97-88 and exploded for 32 points and connected for 7 three´s the most that he had in one game as a rookie. Sometimes being a rookie overseas and not being able to go home for Xmas can be a tough experience, but he was in very good hands. “I missed Christmas last year I was overseas but it was good though. I celebrated it with my managers from my last club”, said Jacob Washington. He also discovered something very special as a rookie in the pre Christmas rush in Germany and couldn´t refrain from visiting again this Xmas. “I experienced the Christmas markets last year and this in Germany they were very fun”, remembered Jacob Washington.

This season the ex Los Angeles Harbor (JUCO) forward was back home for Xmas. Xmas is about the presents for the kids, but overal the theme has a different meaning to him now as a grown up. “It’s a day to be with family and celebrate together”, said Jacob Washington. He was also very lucky to have great parents who really gave a full effort in making the Xmas as best possible for their son. He remembers Xmas in the Washington family was one that he will always cherish and remember with a full heart. “My Christmas as a kid was amazing waking up opening gifts and spending time with loved ones.One of the toughest days of the year for parents and kids is Christmas Eve. Of Course the experience is one that nobody forgets, but for the kids just surviving the evening is a production. Kids sitting on the couch and just observing the big presents wrapped with so much love and imaging what toy could be under the beautiful wrapping paper must feel like an eternity for some. As a German-American growing up in the States, we celebrated the German way so I never had to witness the suffering of getting through the evening and then trying to fall asleep. I also didn´t refrain from teasing my classmates for a whole year letting them know, I had opened all my presents at night. For American parents, there is the stress of producing a perfect Xmas Eve masterpiece for the children. But for Jay Wash, there was something else he tried to concentrate on during the waiting hours. “Christmas Eve is time for going to look at Christmas lights and doing last minute planning”, stated Jacob Washington. Oh yes the Xmas lights, that is also a beautiful part of Xmas that has it´s own special charm everywhere in the world.

One thing that kids can usually remember really well is what their favorite gift was as a kid. If I had to chose one, I would go back to my first hockey stick or some kind of Star Wars action figure. But for some guys like him, he can´t pinpoint just one. “I have had some many great gifts it’s hard to pick a favorite”, added Jacob Washington. It is usually also not difficult for overseas ballers to pick that favorite Xmas food. Especially guys who have been overseas for some years and not gone home for Christmas, they crave those special dishes from mom or grandma. However for the ex California State University Dominguez Hills (NCAA2) player, he doesn´t have a special Xmas dish. Maybe he will have one after a few years overseas not being home for Chrismas in the future? But one thing he does remember is what his favorite gift has been in his 26 years of existence that he gave a loved one. “I got my mom a matching bracelet when I was little and we still have it till this day”, stressed Jacob Washington. He doesn´t have a special Xmas song, but has a favorite movie. “My favorite Christmas movie is the Grinch“, said Jacob Washington. I actually saw the Grinch for the first time this Xmas season. I loved the story, but didn´t enjoy the updated version. I want to watch the original Grinch movie in the future. I will always be old school. I will stick to Home Alone as my Favorite Xmas Movie. In the end Kevin is back with his family to celebrate Xmas. That is exactly what Christmas is all about. Being Home for Xmas with your loved ones.

Juhwan Harris-Dyson Will Never Forget The Look On His Nephews Face When He Gave Him A Toy Truck For Xmas

For some ballers overseas nothing ever changes during the Xmas season. You either have the opportunity to go home or you don´t. For California native Juhwan Harris-Dyson (198-SG-1999, college: California), he has played 4 of his 5 pro seasons in Germany in Herford, Wulfen, Hagen and Bad Honnef while also grabbing a season of experience in Romania.I mean there is nothing nicer than to be home with family and relatives for Christmas, but having that option overseas to celebrate Xmas isn´t a bad option either as seeing how other cultures celebrate is definitely a delight. That he lives on the west coast isn´t exactly around the corner either. “I have actually spent all my Pro years overseas for Christmas. Of course I miss being home with my family but the last year the break hasn’t lined up where I have enough time to travel back home California is a long flight. I really try to enjoy in it and really dive into the holiday season here overseas. One thing I love is visiting different Christmas markets here in Germany”, stated Juhwan Harris-Dyson. He will keep his perfect record overseas alive this season as he will be in beautiful Bavaria for Xmas. “I will celebrate Christmas down south in Würzburg. Sadly I won’t be able to go home this Christmas but I’m looking forward to seeing my parents here in Germany at the end of the season”, smiled Juhwan Harris-Dyson.

For the Swiss army knife who has made the transition from the endless grind in the Regionalliga to the Pro B very well has always had traditional values and celebrated Xmas the way one always should. “For me Christmas is the celebration of Jesus on his birthday and what he has done for the world. My Christmas growing up was spent around family opening presents the night of the 24th going into the 25th. With a nice meal following on Christmas Day”, said Juhwan Harris-Dyson. Every kid has their favorite gift and it´s no surprise that his has to do with the game he loves most. “My favorite present was from my parents. They gifted me Lakers tickets for a Christmas Day game”, stated Juhwan Harris-Dyson. But Xmas is also about giving and he also remembers a Christmas where he made a family member very happy. “My favorite present that I gave a family member was to my little nephew. He really loves cars so I got him a truck to play with the look on his face was priceless”, remembered Juhwan Harris-Dyson.

The ex University of California (NCAA) player has spent the last years in Germany and always had a great time with all the amazing offerings in the Xmas time. It is a totally different experience for him in comparison to what people see in the States. “In America we are not really celebrating Advent and other things like this. We typically only celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. One thing I do miss about the states is the way people decorate their houses during this time of year”, stated Juhwan Harris-Dyson. The beautiful and unique Christmas markets remain a very popular activity not only with the locals, but also the ballers. “I’ve visited a few Christmas markets in the cities I’ve played in previously in Germany. This year I got the chance to swing by the Christmas market in Bonn to walk around and especially get on the Ferris wheel there. I’m also looking forward to checking the market in Köln off my list this holiday season”, added Juhwan Harris-Dyson. He has experienced the act of opening presents overseas now for years. But since he also had opened some presents on Xmas Eve back in the day seeing how it´s done overseas is nothing new for him. “It definitely gives you some anticipation through the day waiting for the night to open gifts. For me it’s not something out of the ordinary but for most Americans this can be something new for them”, expressed Juhwan Harris-Dyson. No matter if he is in USA or overseas, he can always get a dose of his favorite food, movies and music during the special holiday season. “Christmas cookies is one of my favorite things about the holiday. Sugar cookies are taking the top spot for me I’m a huge sweets’ person. For movies I have two depending on the mood I’m in. My two choices would be either Home Alone or The Grinch. For Christmas songs I have to go with probably the most recognizable song- “All I Want for Christmas” by Mariah Carey”, commented Juhwan Harris-Dyson. Even when he will be nestled on a couch somewhere during Xmas, he won´t forget how fortunate he is as there are millions of others world wide that won´t be celebrating the way he is. “I´m just wishing for peace in the world as there is a lot chaos going on currently”, stated Juhwan Harris- Dyson. With 2026 just around the corner, does he practice the classic New Years resolution? “I want to read more books and try to travel somewhere outside of Bonn/Rhöndorf at least once a month”, said Juhwan Harris-Dyson. I have an idea about the perfect book for him. He will just have to wait until the next home game.

Damian Forrest(Donar Groninigen) Loves To Surprise Guards On The Switch And Wouldn´t Be Where He Is Today Without The JUCO Grind

Damian Forrest (206-F-2001, college: N.Alabama) is a 24 year old 206cm forward from Colorado playing his second professional season and first with Donar Groningen (Holland-DBL). Last season as a rookie you played with the Nuernberg Falcons BC (Germany-ProA) averaging 9.1ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 66.5%, FT: 58.1%. He began his basketball career at Poudre High School and then played a season at the University of Michigan-Dearborn (NAIA) averaging 8.3ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 49.5%, FT: 73.0%. He then played a season at Cleveland State Community College (JUCO) averaging 15.2ppg, 10.4rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 55.8%, FT: 70.7%. He then played at the University of North Alabama (NCAA) from 2021-2024 averaging 5.3ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 44.4%, FT: 75.6%, 7.4ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 51.9%, FT: 52.2% and 10.4ppg, 8.2rpg, FGP: 60.6%, FT: 66.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against German team MBC.

Thanks Damian for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with Donar Groningen (Holland-DBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

My experience with Donar Groningen has been great so far! I think we have a really great team and staff and thats why we are seeing so much success. The fact that this is basically a brand new team yet we are still so close and have such good chemistry with each other on and off the court has easily been my favorite part of this year.

Last season as a rookie you played in Germany. What are the biggest differences between Germany and Holland on and off the court?

I think that the biggest adjustment is physicality. To me, BNXT players and teams have been overall bigger and stronger than in the ProA, but luckily I like that kind of play and have really embraced it! Holland is great off the court, people are friendly and the city of Groningen is very lively and a nice place to live but I will say that I really miss Germany! This just comes down to personal preference because I grew up speaking German and always had wanted to live there, and it really had exceeded my expectations so I am very thankful for my time in Nuremberg.

The club has won quite a few titles in the last 12 years, but last won a cup in 2022. How big is the hunger in the organization to win again?

The hunger is huge! We have made it our goal to win the cup and the Dutch league, so despite some early success we come to practice every day knowing that our ultimate goal is still a ways away, and we need to work harder and get better everyday to reach it because we have the tools to do it

What has it been like playing for head coach Jason Dourisseau. I saw this guy play in Germany back in the day. He won 9 titles in Holland. How has he helped your game move forward this season?

Coach JD has been so huge for my development. Being relatively young and a former successful player means that he gets us and our team on a level that I have never seen before in my life. He has put ultimate confidence in me and my development and so I have seen leaps and bounds of my game getting better. I even hit my first in game three’s of my college and pro career because he really believes in me. Super thankful to play for him.

You’re a player that can score and rebound. What exactly is your role on the team?

My role is to be the anchor of the team. I have the capability to score and free up other guys by drawing attention to the post, but most of all being able to defend at a high level, screen, and rebound is central to my game and roll on a team. As well as being a leader with communicating and keeping everyone’s heads on the court and off.

Let´s talk more 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 compare my game to a Jalen Duren or maybe Jarrett Allen, it´s hard to compare myself because I have a sort of unique game.

You’re a player that can score and rebound. What other strengths does your game incorporate?

Other than scoring and rebounding, I pride myself on my individual defense guarding 1-5, my screen defense, my communication, and my screening. Also although my assist numbers aren’t high I am certainly getting better with my pass game.

In school you took only 2 three pointers. In Nurnberg none and now already 6 in Holland. Is the three pointer a part of your game that you would like to incorporate more into your game?

I certainly want to incorporate the three into my game more, but not too much. I just want to prove the ability to make an open three or a low shot clock three to keep the defense honest and open up the floor for my teammates and myself.

You had have shown good glimpses as a defender. Would you still classify yourself as a raw defender overseas? What steps do you want to make this season with your defensive game?

I would consider myself a raw defender, I think I am a high level post defender and I have a really good ability for my size and weight to defend guards and outside the paint. I actually like the challenge of guarding and shutting down guys outside of my position and I love to play switch because I think I surprise guards that try and iso me, it always boosts my confidence when the guards stop trying to iso me because they can´t get past me.

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

My court vision and ability to pass are two big areas of my game that I am trying to improve on this season. I am also trying to work on the ability to knock down open threes occasionally as I think that will be huge for both me and my team.

You played your rookie season with the Nuernberg Falcons BC (Germany-ProA) averaging 9.1ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 66.5%, FT: 58.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

It was definitely a roller coaster of a rookie year. Being so far from home and dealing with a new team, new system, way of life, style of play, and coaches was a hard adjustment at first for sure. I think my wake up call was when my first coach and club parted ways. Made me realize how this was real life, no time or room to mess around because this is job. And being successful is a part of the job now, and of you can’t get the job done it can be over.

How do you summarize your rookie season in Germany and playing for Ralph Junge. How did your game grow as a rookie?

It was a roller coaster of challenges on and off the court but I am thankful to have had the opportunity to play for Ralph, he definitely helped with my adjustment to the differences of the game on the court and in everyday life off the court.

You began your university basketball at the University of Michigan-Dearborn (NAIA) averaging 8.3ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 49.5%, FT: 73.0%. How vital was this first season playing for Taylor Langley? What could your game benefit most from that season?

I was under-recruited out of high school so going to play at UMD was a really pivotal year for me. I wasn’t sure if basketball was for me, or if this was sustainable, I wanted to be at a higher level and get more out of my experience. But I am thankful for how much of a grind it was because it made me realize I would do whatever it takes in basketball to get where I thought I should be.

You then took a step back to play with Cleveland State Community College (JUCO) averaging 15.2ppg, 10.4rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 55.8%, FT: 70.7%. Why did you make this decision? Was playing Juco a good decision? Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO reported that JUCO was tough, but an experience that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you? You were a NJCAA D1 Region VI Finalist.

You couldn’t have worded it better yourself, it was a tough year but I wouldn’t trade it for the world, and it is the reason why I made it to where I am today. I made the decision to go down because I wanted to have a great enough season to get recruited to play at an NCAA Division 1 school where I thought I should be playing. So I grinded in JUCO and it worked out.

How valuable was head coach Lou Cigliano in your basketball development? How did he prepare you best for a NCAA career at North Alabama?

Coach Cig, Coach Howard, and Coach Chop all gave me all the tools to succeed and I am eternally grateful to them for it. I am still in touch to them to this day and very thankful for all they did to help me be great, achieve what I wanted to achieve, and prepare me for the next level.

You then played at North Alabama (NCAA). You improved your scoring and rebounding averages each season. What kind of a player did you become there?

At North Alabama I really was able to find my identity as both a basketball player and a person. This is where I developed into a team captain, communicator, and defensive/offensive anchor of the team.

You played a season together with TIM Smith Jr who is in his second season in Germany. How special of a player and person was he for you there?

Tim Smith Jr is a hell of a ball player. We had a good season playing together and had a good run in the ASUN conference and tournament. Good guy on and off the court.

You had many great games like 2 14/10 games against EKU, or 2 great games against Lipscomb as a senior. What was your fondest moment there on the court?

I would say the ASUN tournament my final year we played against Lipscomb in the quarterfinals of the ASUN tournament, it was a rival school of ours and absolutely packed arena with both fans. We ended up beating them on a crazy buzzer beater to send us to the semi-finals. It was insane experience and win, and got posted everywhere from Sportscenter to ESPN.

How did head coach Tony Pujol groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Tony Pujol and Ahmad Smith from North Alabama both did a great job developing me and honing my skills as a player. They then allowed me to come stay at UNA over the past two summers to workout and stay in shape with the team and give the young guys advice, I am so thankful for them and how close we have become. They are instrumental in my success.

Who won a 1-1 on the court you or Tim Smith Jr?

He is a better shooter but I think I got him because I would be able to play bully ball in the paint haha.

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

The toughest that I had to guard was probably Chet Holmgren from Gonzaga

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My top 5 in no particular order are Jacari Lane, Austin Luke, Jack Pagankopf, Dane Erikstrup, and Sardaar Calhoun.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

My personal NBA mount Rushmore all time is MJ, Curry, Lebron, Kobe. Current players is Jokic, Giannis, Lebron, Steph.

Who is your GOAT?

I think basketball is too complicated to say flat out one player is the goat, but my GOAT in terms of most dominant is Giannis.

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

They definitely should have left it alone, I hate when they milk the classics and make sequels for a quick buck.

Thanks Damian for the chat.

Brandon Cataldo Will Never Forget Celebrating Xmas In California And His Craving For Christmas Bread Toast Has To Be Massive

If there is one word that would classify Brandon Cataldo (213-C-1991, college: Portland St.) best concerning his long 10 year career overseas, it would be chugging. He just continues to chug along from opportunity to opportunity giving his team all he can with points and rebounds. He began his basketball career in 2015 in Germany with 2 Regionalliga team Westfalen Mustangs and then saw many beautiful places including Italy for 3 seasons. He also spent some time in Ecuador, Iceland and Sweden and had a second tour of duty in Germany in Limburg in 2022. He also has spent time in Spain and is currently in his third season there currently with Hache Publicidad Moraleja (Spain-Tercera FEB). Before that he played 5 seasons with Portland State University. Usually guys that are overseas will get home for Xmas at one time or the other, but in his case it has never happened. Imagine the 34 year old last being home for Xmas when he was 19 years old? “*I haven’t been home for Christmas since around 2010 because I had games in college every year from 2010 to 2015. As an overseas player, it was always difficult to get back to the U.S. for Christmas during those years”, said Brandon Cataldo. Even if he hasn´t been home for ages, Xmas has a big meaning to him. “Christmas to me is all about family. I think it’s a time when we all come together and spend quality time. While gift-giving is a big part of the celebration for many in America for me, it’s always been about family”, warned Brandon Cataldo.

So it is no surprise that the big 214cm big man has very fond memories of how he celebrated Xmas as a kid in The States. “Christmas was always a great time with family! We would go to California to celebrate as a family on my father’s side, and it was always filled with very special memories. I’d say it was my favorite holiday growing up”, remembered Brandon Cataldo. The whole build up to Xmas was massive in the Cataldo family including Christmas Eve where so much was going on, even a visit from Santa Claus. “Christmas Eve was our big family party at my great-uncle’s house. Everyone gathered to play games, share a big dinner, and open presents. There were always tons of gifts, and my uncle would dress up as Santa, calling out each gift while we ran up to grab them before returning to our seats. It was always an amazing time”, stated Brandon Cataldo. That his favorite Christmas present of all-time has to do with Basketball is no surprise either. “My favorite present as a kid was an indoor basketball game with two nets. It was so much fun”, said Brandon Cataldo. He also has some real classics as his favorite Xmas movie and song while his favorite Xmas food is one that he could always eat and unfortunately hasn´t had often since he hasn´t been home for the longest time. “My favorite Christmas movie is the animated “Grinch” (the classic one), and my favorite song is “Jingle Bells.” It was definitely overplayed while I was growing up. My favorite Xmas food is Christmas bread toast. We only made it once a year, on Christmas morning, and it’s really good”, expressed Brandon Cataldo.

In his 10 year career, the big man has spent 2 Christmas´s in Germany and he always enjoyed his time there. Is Germany so different during the pre Xmas time than what he experienced as a kid? “*I would say that Germany has many similarities with the U.S., but the traditions are much more pronounced there, and the overall feeling during the pre-Christmas season is different for sure”, commented Brandon Cataldo. He also got a taste of the atmosphere and the delicious foods at the Christmas markets and was never disappointed. “We visited as many Christmas markets as we could in Germany, and they were all very cool! I try to avoid eating most of the foods at the markets because even looking at the wrong food can make me gain 5 pounds. The German sweets during Christmas are dangerously good for me . But it’s definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I wish the USA did more of that”, stressed Brandon Cataldo. On Xmas you think of others and remember all of the suffering going on. He has a special Xmas wish for the whole world. “My Christmas wish for the world is world peace. I hope that all the people of the world can go home and spend quality time with their families, and that everyone travels safely”, warned Brandon Cataldo. With 2026 just around the corner, he is also focused on how he wants to present him as an individual in the new year. “*I usually keep my resolutions to myself and my wife, but I can say that I’m on a good game plan for success right now. My focus is on staying healthy, improving my skills, and maintaining a positive mindset. I believe setting small, achievable goals helps me stay motivated throughout the year. I’m looking forward to making the most of this year and continuing to grow personally and professionally”, added Brandon Cataldo. So where will Brando Cataldo be for Christmas in 2026? Will he finally be home in California again? “This Christmas, I will be going to Barbados with my wife, her parents, and her sister to meet her family. We’ll be staying at her aunt’s house. I’m super excited about this trip”, said Brandon Cataldo. Ok so he won´t be home for Xmas, but he won´t be without family as being with family is the most important thing in life for Brandon Cataldo.

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Anthony Watkins Will Never Forget The Christmas Eve Missions With His Dad In Tennessee

Anthony Watkins (194-PG-2000) isn´t only a special basketball player that has reached the highest level in Germany with the easyCredit BBL, but also has had a unique Christmas life that not many can say that they have had. As a boy that grew up in the States with an American father, but had a German mom, he witnessed Xmas from both cultures. “I got the best of both worlds. It was always just the three of us and the Christ kind on the 24th with some great world famous lasagna that my mom made as well as the presents from the Christ kind. Then on the 25th we’d go to Nanny’s (my dad’s mom) and watch the NBA games and eat some mac and cheese, collard greens (my favorite), cornbread, pies, turkey, dressing, and the works. I stayed away from the chitterlings though! I would get some presents there too, but the main event was on Christmas Eve. Once we got a bigger house and Nanny got older, we would host Christmas Day which was cool as well”, remembered Anthony Watkins. Christmas is all about family and that was always a big focus in the Watkins family. “Christmas means making time for one another. Coming from a family of ambitious and hardworking people, who spend a lot of their time serving others, it’s always great to see that energy go entirely toward the people closest and dearest for a few days”, stressed Anthony Watkins.

Usually Christmas Eve in the States is about being at home and just spending precious time with the loved ones. Eating scrumptious food, listening to Xmas songs and watching Xmas movies is also on the menu. “Lasagna is my favorite Xmas food and my mom’s gingerbread cookies that we have to hide from my dad for anyone to have a chance to get some. Polar Express has always been a classic for me, but there is also a Rudolph and the Reindeer Games VHS Tape somewhere that I used to love to watch during this season, and that’s probably the reason why Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is my favorite Christmas song”, said Anthony Watkins. However in the Watkins family, there is so much more to do than just eat and watch movies. Anthony and his dad actually had a very stressful day getting so much ready for Xmas. “Christmas Eve was when my dad and I went to work! We’d get up in the morning, driving through town to see if we could find a Christmas tree somewhere (results may vary) and somehow, we always found one my mom approved of. Once we brought the tree back, it was time to go through all the stores we could to get the gifts we needed for the night. After we got all the gifts, we’d grab some McChickens and a Sweet Tea off the dollar menu to “knock the dust off” and headed to Nanny’s to wrap the presents so we could hand them over to the Christkind in time to give to my mom. Those Christmas Eve missions are some of my fondest memories with my dad. And topping it off with presents and the world famous lasagna makes them unforgettable”, said Anthony Watkins. Getting presents is always special for kids, but sometimes it takes a little bit of disappointment before the real climax hits at least in the Watkins family. “The presents were always great, but what I loved more was the performances my parents would organize to give me special gifts. One example was when I got my Xbox One. I had gotten a controller for it, and didn’t see any gifts left under the tree. My mom had said she wanted to at least give me a piece of the Xbox even though they couldn’t get me the whole thing. The whole family was there (even my grandparents and uncle from Germany) and I remember being disappointed, but also still being grateful for what I had gotten. We sat around and talked about our gifts and other things for a while when Nanny went to “go smoke” (she hadn’t smoked in years I think) my dad said to go with her, which made it even more odd, but she didn’t come over often so I rolled with it. I went with her to the back porch and there it was: The Xbox One I had wanted for almost two years since it came out, in all its glory”, added Anthony Watkins. He also remembers his most cherished moment when he gave a loved one a gift. “Being able to gift the novel I wrote and dedicated to my grandfather to my grandmother and mom was a pretty special moment. It was something I had worked on for years and that took a lot of courage to publish. Now I’ve released the sequel and am working on part three, and my mom is actually helping me to translate book one into German”, commented Anthony Watkins.

Anthony Watkins grew up in Tennessee and turned pro in 2019. He came to Germany and in 7 seasons has played for 10 organizations. Currently he is playing for Pro B team Lok Bernau. There were Christmas´s where he could hop over the Atlantic, but also other times where he couldn´t. “I was able to go home to the States twice in my career and spend Christmas there, which was special! Almost felt like a mini off-season. Other years I’ve either spent the Holidays on my own or tried to get down to see my family in the Heidelberg area”, expressed Anthony Watkins. So where will the point guard spend Xmas this year? “I’ve got a beautiful lady in my life nowadays so we’ll definitely make sure she gets to see her family and then we’ll head down to see my grandmother and my mom, who flew in to catch some games and spend the holidays. We’re still planning right now and seeing how much time we will have off, but I’m looking forward to it”, stated Anthony Watkins. As a kid who grew up in the States, he has taken a liking to the pre Christmas activities in Germany. “It is always cool to see the Lebkuchen coming into stores in September. I always send a picture (or two) to tease my mom who has to wait until Christmas time. Here, Halloween is getting bigger, but there’s no Thanksgiving for example that comes after to bridge the gap, so Christmas vibes are more or less in full swing after Halloween (which is my birthday). The US does it big when the shift does happen, but that normally comes after Black Friday is done. In Germany it slowly ramps up I’d say”, stressed Anthony Watkins. He also has witnessed the Xmas markets. “I think they’re really cool! I don’t drink alcohol so the Glühwein is lost on me, but I’ll tap into a hot chocolate for sure and check out the different stands. Plus, as I mentioned, I have someone with me nowadays who would be quite upset with me if we didn’t go to any Christmas markets during the Holiday season”, smiled Anthony Watkins. He has seen Xmas from 2 sides, but could that moment ever happen where he would chose either the 24th or 25th to open the presents? “That idea of Christmas morning is a classic American image. But I enjoy both styles! It’ll be interesting to see what ideas we come up with when we decide to start a family, because I’d like to incorporate elements from both! It’s also funny to see/hear American rookies react to hearing that news for the first time. They never believe it”, stressed Anthony Watkins.

Tyseem Lyles Will Never Forget Selling Candy From The Last Xmas In Order To Buy Matching Necklaces For His Grandma And Ma For The Next Xmas

Ok so Tyseem Lyles (185-SG-1992, college: Mercy) didn´t decide to pull a lifer in Erfurt with the Basketball Lowen, but one could say that he has become a German lifer for his job of professional basketball player. His Pro B colleagues of Omari Knox and DJ Woodmore have played most of their career in Oberaching and Speyer while Lyles played in Erfurt for 4 years. All in all he is currently in his 8th professional season after having played in Hamburg and Karlsruhe as well and currently is calling south Germany home in Fellbach. It is no surprise that a lot of these American ballers overseas come from large families. Christmas´s in the States was always a very important part of their lives and that continues even when your overseas. The whole experience gives him special power. “Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year for many reasons, but my number one reason is gathering together with my family and loved ones. This seemed like the one time of the year no one had to work or do any kind of work. Everyone just being together. Christmas to me is love because it is cold, it is dark a lot earlier and on this day or leading to this day the warmth of togetherness from everyone gives you the bit of energy to you may need to push through the year or for guys like me make a stronger push through the second half of the season”, stressed Tyseem Lyles.

Especially in big familes, the whole Xmas experience is a massive production. For Tyseem his Christmas´s were always spent at his grand parents apartment in Brooklyn, New York. “Decorating the tree together a couple weeks before, decorating the big socks, watching a ton of Christmas movies and of course pretending not to see my mom carry in bags of toys. This was always the build up to Christmas Day as a kid”, remembered Tyseem Lyles. His grand ma made delicious food for all with sweet potato pie, baked macaroni, baked honey glazed ham, and stuffing. “It was always a time for good food, sharing gifts, playing games and telling stories. All of my cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents cramped in one 3 bedroom apartment for this holiday but for some reason it never felt crowded as a kid”, smiled Tyseem Lyles. However the most exciting time for him was Christmas Eve. “It was always extremely hard to go to sleep with all my cousins. All of us full of laughter during bed time, or even trying to “catch” Santa Claus eating the cookies but always being caught by our parents in the act. During the day we played board games or just went outside to play”, said Tyseem Lyles. It is no surprise that his favorite Xmas gift had to do with the game that he loves. “My favorite present I received as a kid was this game called NBA Streets for a game system called game cube. If I was not playing basketball outside I was watching or playing a game that had to do with the sport. I was also a big gamer as a kid so these were my two things. Basketball and games”, added Tyseem Lyles. Even if receiving a pretty gift is exciting, there is nothing better than giving something unique to your loved ones. “I have two favorite moments because I was really proud of both of these moments I remember saving a bunch of money for them. I bought my mom and my grandmother matching necklaces. I sold candy from the last Christmas to the next Christmas in high school just for this moment”, said Tyseem Lyles who lists Elf starring Will Ferrell, and Home Alone 2 as his favorite Xmas movie and his favorite Christmas song is Its beginning to look a lot like christmas or Feliz Navidad.

Even if guys playing in the Pro B have a 2 week break for Xmas, many don´t go home simply because they have established new family type relationships overseas and it isn´t any different with him. “I wish I was going back home for Christmas it’s been a while. But it is okay because it will still be a special day I am around love and great people. I will spend the Christmas with my girlfriend and her family. Also I will spend a great amount of time on FaceTime to talk with everyone from my family so I can see everyone and we can still share this day together”, expressed Tyseem Lyles. He has been overseas for almost a decade, but doesn´t see too much difference between what happens in the pre Xmas time in Germany and USA. “Christmas is a bit different for me these days only because I am older and currently living in another country. The only huge difference is the traditional foods for this day but are really good. For example the potato dumplings, red cabbage and with some I have had roasted duck. Knowing Santa does not exist is the only difference because the love is there we play games, and always have a great time”, commented Tyseem Lyles. A favotite place to hang out and mingle is at the famous German Xmas markets and it isn´t any different for him either. “My favorite Christmas market is the one in Hamburg. I experienced the christmas market in Stuttgart, Augsburg, and Erfurt so far”, said Tyseem Lyles. So how does he go about opening presents in Germany. Does he do it the German way or keep the American tradition? “I wish I had known this as a kid I would have been extremely happy because the amount of times I begged my mom to open them the night before. So as an adult I do it for that kid inside me, at least one present”, smiled Tyseem Lyles. With so much sadness going on in the world, he also has that special wish for the world. “My Christmas wish for the world is for everyone have all their needs and wants fulfilled without having to ever harm another person place or thing ever again”, warned Tyseem Lyles. 2026 is just around the corner and as always he wants to go into the new year remembering those very special people in his life. “My New Years Resolution is at the end of each day write at least 2 sentences or more about 5 things or people I am grateful for”, stressed Tyseem lyles.