It was Valentines Day 2026 and the Dragons Rhondorf were in Bernau. They had taken on the journey of one of the farthest road trips of the season sitting on a 5 game losing streak. No miracle occurred in Bernau as the Dragons Rhondorf stunk up the building losing 103-81. Rhondorf had shot a pathetic 25% from downtown and coughed up the ball 23 times. It had been the 6th time in the season where they had allowed an access of 100 points. I can´t imagine what the long bus ride home was like. The thoughts of the players and head coach Max Becker must have been going crazy and all over the place. I´m sure every player on that team could of used some special love. It was definitely a long way home until finding that love. “We were just trying to figure it out. Nobody wants to lose. We knew something had to change. After that loss, everyone had a different mentality going into practice. Everyone was really frustrated. It was a real wakening moment to see the sense of urgency”, stated Juhwan Harris-Dyson (198-SG-1999, college: California, agency: Origins Sports Group). The playoffs at that moment seemed as far away as the 2026 NBA final is for the Indiana Pacers. However 46 days later the Dragons Rhondorf are standing tall as they finished the regular season in 8th place and have a first round playoff date with first place team Orange Academy of the Pro B South. “It has been a crazy month. We were looking at regelation a month ago. We didn´t want to move down and wanted to finish the season as best as we could. We really played our last 5 regular season games like it was our championship. It was very exciting reaching the playoffs. Last season I was in a similar situation and just missed the playoffs”, stressed Juhwan Harris-Dyson.
pic credit: Martin Jung
So let´s rewind back 46 days ago to Valentines Day. The club arrived home after the tough loss in Bernau and had to prepare for the next game which would be at home against Itzehoe. How did the next days look like in Bad Honnef? Was there some serious soul searching going on? “We had a team meeting and talked about basketball and non basketball things. We had a lot more comradery. Our young guys really understood the sense of urgency. We understood as a team that we had to win games not only scoring, but also taking care of the little things”, said Juhwan Harris-Dyson. The team was in the dumps after the brutal loss in Bernau. Was there any hope for a turn around? “I pay attention to the standings and what happens in the league. We knew we had a chance to be successful, but also knew that we needed some things to go in our favor. With every new win each week, the reality got more and more real. I always felt like our team was a lot better than the credit it was becoming”, warned Juhwan Harris-Dyson. After the bad loss in Bernau, the chances of the playoffs were there, but was the focus more on remaining in the Pro B first? “We were all aware of our situation. We were in 13th place, but as a team we never felt like we would move down. We knew that we could win enough games to stay in the league. After we had won enough games to stay in the league, we then focused on the playoffs”, expressed Juhwan Harris-Dyson. After the vital victory against Itzehoe, the club then faced it´s next do or die game against Wedel on the road and didn´t disappoint wining a shoot out 100-87. “The win in Wedel was very big for us. We had a long ride to Wedel and the atmosphere was great there. They were a top 4 team in the Pro B North and had one of the better defenses in the league. That win gave us a big boost and energy to keep winning. The win gave us the ultimate confidence. It was also great to see how the team stuck together and rallied to win after I got hurt”, added Juhwan Harris-Dyson.
pic credit: Martin Jung
After a massive close win again at home against Vechta 2, the Dragons Rhondorf were at it again on the road against the BSW Sixers. Once again the Dragons Rhondorf were able to win another close game 75-74 as Lagui Diallo hit the winning three pointer with 1,22 to play. After that the Dragons buckled together and made big stops. And what was really impressive was how the team stuck together after Juhwan Harris-Dyson was out early. “I saw a lot of heart from the guys. Many guys had to play roles that they may not have been necessarily comfortable in or had during the season, but they stepped up. I have the ultimate respect for the team for the way they came together as a unit to pull out wins. We had 5 final games and focused on each one at a time and did all we possibly could to win them”, explained Juhwan Harris-Dyson. Young player Vuk Scepanovic stepped up big time scoring 14 points and showed how vital the support of the young players has been this season. Did he give him a hug after the win? “No I didn´t give him a hug after the win, but shot him a congratulatory text after the win. I has been a tough season for him. He was injured and then had to play behind Jorge Mejias and myself. He didn´t get the amount of minutes to really show his full potential. He was able to play free. I´m so happy for how he has played. All his hard work has paid off”, said Juhwan Harris-Dyson.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Juhwan Harris-Dyson in the Dragon Dome 2026
The last game against Rostock was another very tight game. Rostock went on a run to begin the fourth quarter, but the Dragons Rhondorf fought back and won on free throws by Duje Dujmovic. “Our defense was really good in the last game. We made it tough for them to score and didn´t give them any advantages. We rebounded very well and got stops”, remembered Juhwan Harris-Dyson. Sharp shooter German Chris Frazier had a good look at the end, but the basketball God was on the side of the Dragons Rhondorf. “I was praying that he would miss. He is a great shooter and guy. I watched him lite up the three point line in Schwelm. I rotated over and saw him shoot it and was glad that he missed. I´m glad it went our way”, smiled Juhwan Harris-Dyson. After missing the Sixers game, Harris-Dyson was more than pumped in possibly the last game of the season. “The Rostock game was definitely in my top 3 of most important games overseas. I´m a competitor and just couldn´t miss the game. I wasn´t 100% going into the game. I know that if I hadn´t played, I would of really regretted it if we had lost. I´m just happy I was able to play and give something in the win. I saw how much the guys had sacrificed the last weeks and I also had to sacrifice. These are the type of games that players die for. They servs as memories that last a lifetime”, stressed Juhwan Harris-Dyson. One player who has been massive in the last weeks was ex Neustadt forward Duje Dujmovic who has been a force on the glass. “I remember being in Rhondorf a week and a half before the team met in August. Duje was already there. He was already working hard on his game then and has done it consistently this season. It hasn´t been an easy season for him, because we have a lot of scoring options. I believe that he has shown his full game the last weeks. He has shown his versatility the last weeks once having a perfect shooting game from outside and other games getting many rebounds”, stated Juhwan Harris-Dyson.
Pic Credit: Martin Jung
The California native who has Illinois (NCAA) winning the 2026 NCAA tournament is content that the last three games was the best spurt of the season for them. Especially defensively, they kept teams under 80 points. “They were all close games and big wins that gave us a big boost going into the playoffs. It just feels so good getting 3 hard fought wins in a row. Our defensive protection and rebounding has gotten a lot better. We do still allow too many offensive rebounds and that is something we have to still work on. Our defense is what helped get us into the playoffs. We had up and down shooting games, but it was our defensive consistency that helped us pull out wins”, added Juhwan Harris-Dyson. He has had problems with free throws his whole career overseas, but in the last 3 games has found more fortune shooting 6/8. “I haven´t had the best free throw % in my first 5 seasons overseas. I keep working on it even if my work hasn´t totally translated onto the court. I feel like I have made little improvements. I started the season having a 3/8 game and recently had a 15-20 game or 6/6 game. Working on this problem will continue to be a focus this summer”, added Juhwan Harris-Dyson. The Playoffs been the week after Easter and the Dragons Rhondorf will have no cake walk with #1 team Orange Academy. “I´m very excited for the challenge. We have no expectations going in. This will be a great opportunity for us to spoil Orange Academy´s party. We could be that spoiler. We will play for ourselves to win”, commented Juhwan-Harris-Dyson. The Dragons will face one of Europe´s big talents from Poland with Teo Milicic. “I´m not so familiar with him, but I will get more familiar with him in the next days. It will be a fun match up to see his talent level. I think that it will be a challenge for both of us”, said Juhwan Harris-Dyson. Orange Academy are a very young team with an average age of 18 and it is incredible how disciplined the team is under head coach Florian Flabb. They average 82 points per game and have one of the top defenses in the Pro B allowing only 74 points per game. “We just have to play our style and be gritty on defense and try to speed them up. We also need to be aggressive with our pace and have good shot selection”, stated Juhwan Harris-Dyson. It is the post season and it will be interesting to observe if the Dragons Rhondorf can make an upset. Will one see Juhwan Harris-Dyson at his best? “I always give my best. But to be honest my best is relative. One game, I may have a 24/11 game and the other a 2/13 game. For me if I´m able to contribute to a win, then that is a good game for me. The stats don´t matter. I just want to win”, warned Juhwan Harris-Dyson.
Carter Whitt (190-G-2002, college: Belmont) is a 190cm guard from Raleigh, North Carolina playing his rookie season overseas with Pro A team Nurnberg Falcons currently averaging 10,1ppg, 3,5rpg, 4,3apg and 1,3spg. He began his basketball career at Leesville Road High School and then played 2 years at Wake Forest (NCAA) and 50 games. He then played 2 seasons at Furman University (NCAA) playing a total of 59 games and in his last season averaged 7.6ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 82.1%: he then finished his NCAA career at Belmont University (NCAA) averaging 12.8ppg, 4.6rpg, 6.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 33.7%, FT: 73.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Carter for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season with German Pro A team Nuernberg Falcons BC (Germany-ProA). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the experience? It has been a great experience so far, I’ve really enjoyed bonding with teammates and coaches while taking in the city of Nurnberg.
What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
I would say the biggest wake up call has been the physicality of the game but overall the transition has been smooth.
Nurnberg has had a roller coaster season so far winning the first 2, then losing 4 and now on a 4 game winning streak. How can you explain the early season play as of now? I´m happy to have been a part of 4 wins and want to keep it rolling. Just have to keep getting better everyday.
The team has been playing good basketball as of late and won 2 nail bitters. What strides have you seen the team make in the last weeks? I think we are continuing to learn how to play with each other and just gaining confidence as a unit.
So far your averaging 6/2/2/1 stats. What has been the toughest adjustment for you overseas on the court? With my first two games being within 72 hours of arrival I think the biggest thing has just been getting my legs under me and getting comfortable with my teammates. Not worrying about stats but focused on the team continuing to win games.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description. I think my best comparison is Andrew Nembhard/ Austin Reaves
You’re a guard that can fill the stat sheet well. What are your biggest strengths on the court? I think my passing and ability to run a team while being able to touch the paint with ease.
Your three pointer has been up and down the last years. How would you describe the development of your three pointer? My three pointer is much better now than it ever has been and I’m confident that through my professional career, I will show that I can be an elite shooter from 3.
How would you describe your defensive game now? What kind of a defender are you now and what Kind of defender do you still want to become?
Overall I think I am a solid defender but definitely want to become a great defender. Learning how to use the refs to my advantage and being physical as possible is my next step.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? Decision making is definitely one of my main focuses along with showing that I can knock the three down off the catch or off the dribble.
You began your college career at Wake Forest in 2020 playing 2 seasons and 50 NCAA games. You never averaged more than 4,6ppg in a season. What was your summary of these 2 years? What positives could you gain from it? I learned how to come off the bench and play a minimal role. I met some great teammates and enjoyed my time at wake.
One of your best games was your 16/6/2 game in a win over USC Upstate. Was that one of your fondest moments on the court at Wake Forest? I had many fond memories but the biggest were some of the big wins we had, including beating North Carolina by 20 at home.
You then played 2 seasons with Furman University (NCAA) averaging 2.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.1apg[Textumbruch]and 7.6ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 82.1%. How did your game grow there under Bob Richey? I made some life long friends at Furman and really enjoyed my teammates and what we were able to achieve together. I wasn’t really able to show my full game at Furman.
You had some big games against Coastal and VMI. What was your fondest moment on the court at Coastal? Beating UVA in the NCAA tournament was my fondest memory, I also enjoyed blowing out ETSU at home and playing a major role in that win.
You then finished at Belmont University (NCAA) averaging 12.8ppg, 4.6rpg, 6.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 33.7%, FT: 73.6%. You had a game winner in the 99-97 win over Illinois State having a 10/8/9 game. What memories do you have of this dramatic win? That was an awesome game. I remember I gave up a costly three that sent the game to overtime so I knew I had to get it back!
How did head coach Casey Alexander groom and prepare you best for a pro career?
Coach Alexander is an awesome coach and I couldn’t have asked for a better place to develop for my pro career. He let me display my full arsenal, something I hadn’t had the opportunity to do in prior years and I´m super thankful for that. The track record of coach Alexander developing great pro’s is clear, and I think people should really look at his track record when considering Belmont.,
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Isaiah Walker?
I’ve only had one teammate that could consistently beat me in 1v1 and that was Jake Laravia. I don’t think we ever played 1v1 but I would’ve taken him!
You played against many great players in the NCAA, but who was the toughest battle that is in the NBA now? I would say Tyrese Maxey back in AAU was the toughest. Scottie Barnes was the best I played in the NCAA.
Please name your best teammates of all-time?
Marcus Foster, Alondes Williams, Jake Laravia, Alex Williams
If you had to construct your very own NBA mount Rushmore which 4 heads would you pi ck? Lebron, MJ, Tim Duncan, John Wall
Who is your GOAT? MJ
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
Jackson Threadgill (198-G-1997, college: App State) is a 198cm forward from North Carolina playing his rookie season overseas with Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D1). He began his basketball career at Davidson Day School and then played 4 seasons with the University of North Carolina at Charlotte playing a total of 110 NCAA games. He then added on a season with Appalachian State University. He spoke to germanhoops.com recently after netting an amazing 53 points in a league game in Malta.
Thanks Jackson for talking togermanhoops.com. You recently scored 53 points in a game and was the highest scorer in the world. You did it in Malta. What does this feat mean to you? I think it’s really just a reflection of my teammates and coaches putting me in a position to be successful.
Did you really score 53 points in 18 minutes? That is crazy? How do you do that?
My teammates did a great job of generating open looks for me and it was just one of those games where I shot at an efficient clip. I started off 9 for 9 from the three point line.
You never averaged more than 6,0ppg in a season in the NCAA. As a rookie now in Malta your averaging 28,0ppg. Has this massive scoring influx surprised you a bit and how do you explain it?
It hasn’t surprised me. I know that I have been capable of doing that but I also understand that you have to play a role. I played with very talented players in college that took on more of that scoring role. Here in Malta the team needs me to take more of that initiative and I knew I would be capable of that.
Did you always know that you had such great scoring potential in your blood?
No, I really just always tried to understand the game and play the right way and I think just over time I became better at that.
Did you have a special breakfast or do something different on this day to help you achieve so many points? No I didn’t, I try to keep to the same routine. I’m big on trusting the process and the results will take care of themselves.
How did you feel going into the game? Do you sometimes know how your game may go after warm ups and how your shot is feeling?
I felt good going into the game. My body felt really good and my shot felt good in warmups. You can’t predict how the game will go based off that but it definitely helps your confidence going into it.
How did you get into the game flow? How rapidly did you know that you might have a real good scoring day?
I came into the game and made 4 3’s straight early on. I knew it would be a good shooting day at that point but I wasn’t really concerned about the scoring.
The team had 43 assists in the game and you 4. 11 teammates had assists. Could a teammate ask for more unselfishness within a team than that? I think that just is a reflection of how unselfish we are as a team and why we have had the success that we have had.
Did you know in the fourth quarter that you were close to 50 points? I actually didn’t play in the 4th quarter but I wasn’t paying attention to the points.
One can´t forget that you hit 12 three´s, one loss than Steph Curry´s most. Not many guys have hit 10 or more three´s as a pro player. Your from Davidson, North Carolina where Steph Curry went to school. What does that mean to you?
I’m actually from Concord NC but I did go to high school school in Davidson North Carolina at Davidson Day School. Obviously Steph Curry being from the area is someone you embrace just because of what he’s been able to accomplish. But hitting that many 3’s and breaking the record in the Malta league was definitely special.
What was your favorite own basket of the 53 point game? Honestly don’t have one.
Did you get any special messages from people that you might not have expected from?
No special text messages.
Did you have to get your teammates donuts after game? No I did not, I just got water poured on me.
Brandton Chadfield is a 24 year old 208cm forward from Washington playing his rookie season for Pro A team Nurnberg Falcons. He began his basketball career at Clarkston High School and then played 7 games at Washington State. He then played 3 years at Seattle University (NCAA) averaging 4.2ppg, 3.4rpg, 7.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 69.1%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 87.0%and 9.3ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 65.8%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 67.1%. He finished his NCAA career at Iowa State University playing 35 games averaging 3.8ppg, 3.1rpg. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Brandton for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season with German Pro A team Nuernberg Falcons BC (Germany-ProA). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the experience? It has been a great experience so far, my wife has moved over here with me so that has definitely helped me a lot. My teammates and coaches have made the transition much easier. I have really enjoyed all the amazing places I’ve been able to see already, as well as the welcoming environment the fans have given me.
What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? One wake up call was going to the supermarket for the first time, and not recognizing much of the things I am used to back home, as well as trying to learn Deutsch to be able to read items at the grocery store. On the basketball side of things, I think it was one of our first preseason games at Crailsheim, I expected the game to maybe have a few fans, mostly family and friends of each team. But when it just kept getting more and more full, I realized that it was much different than America. But I had a really good time and enjoyed playing once some of the butterflies went away.
Nurnberg has had a roller coaster season so far winning the first 2, then losing 4 and then a 4 game winning streak. How can you explain the early season play as of now? We had a very strong pre-season and I feel like that carried into the beginning of the season. But after those first two games we began struggling defensively, and we weren’t functioning as well as we could have been, as seen in the preseason. We have put some hard work and dedication into our defensive fundamentals, clearing up how we want to defend certain actions, and this has helped us succeed.
The team has been playing good basketball as of late and won 2 nail bitters. What strides have you seen the team make in the last weeks? With the improvements we’ve been making on the defensive end it has allowed us to get more in transition and get out and run the ball. This helps the team become more confident on the offensive end, and allows us to have more flow through our offense.
Your averaging 13/87stats. You have needed no adjustment period. What has been your secret to the success? I did a lot of work over this past summer working on my offensive game with a former overseas pro big man who played in Japan. This really helped me gain the confidence to score the ball more, And the preseason helped me find where I fit within the team, and helped define what my role was going to be this year.
How key have German guys Julius Wolf and Lars Lagerpusch been for you? Have they been like mentors in the early going? What have you soaked up most from him so far? Both Wolf and Lagerpusch have helped me a lot, in terms of understanding the way European basketball is played and helped to adapt my game to the different play style. They both give me tons of tips all the time, that I try and implement right away to improve my game.
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 208cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description. If I had to compare my game to an NBA player, I believe that Brook Lopez would best fit the description, I really like the way he plays, for example getting to the boards, being able to battle inside, but also not afraid to go out and shoot the 3.
You’re a versatile forward. Would you describe yourself as a modern day big man. What are your biggest strengths on the court? I would describe myself as a modern day big man, but I feel as if one of my main ways of scoring the ball is with my back to the basket, as well as offensive rebounding. And I take a lot of pride on my defensive capabilities, whether it is guarding the ball screen or switching onto a smaller player.
Your three pointer has been up and down the last years but currently shooting 57%. Your shot selection has been very good. What goals do you have with your shooting this season? My goals for shooting this season are to be confident in my 3 point shot and take good ones when they are available. I try my best to work for a good position inside, but if the shot is not there, I don’t want to force up any bad shots inside, even if they may have the chance, I would rather pass the ball to an open teammate and get the best possible position for an offensive rebound.
How would you describe your defensive game now? What kind of a defender are you now and what Kind of defender do you still want to become? I am strong and physical player by nature, and I use that to my advantage on both ends of the floor, I can guard smaller players, but I want to continue to improve so I can guard 1-5, if I am needed too. I want to continue to work on my speed and quickness, and I want to be able to play tight to whoever I’m guarding, and be able to dictate where I want them to go.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? The areas that I am working on most are my 3 point shot, ball handling, and working on my driving game. As I feel as though all three can help expand my game, and be an asset to the team and having a big man that can do those things will help spread the court, and provide more scoring options.
You began your college career at Washington State University (NCAA) and was there from 2019-2021, but played only 7 games. How tough were these 2 years for you. Could you sample any positives from these years? It was tough not playing but I was surrounded by a lot of great people that wanted to see me succeed, older teammates, the strength coach, and basketball coaches. They helped to push me to gain more weight, put on more muscle, and work extremely hard to become better. I am extremely thankful for my time at Washington State. You were teammates for 2 seasons with DJ Rodman. What was it like being teammates with him? Did he ever tell any Dennis Rodman stories? DJ Rodman is a great teammate and friend, he and Ryan Rapp were my best friends, and roommates, while going to school at Washington State. They saw potential in me and helped to push me to work hard, they are both extremely skilled players, and being able to go to the gym with them and see how they worked on their game helped me a lot.
You then moved to Seattle University (NCAA) averaging 4.2ppg, 3.4rpg, 7.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 69.1%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 87.0% and 9.3ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 65.8%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 67.1%. How big was making this decision to go there? How did your game grow in those 3 years? The decision to transfer to Seattle was a big one, it was hard leaving everything at Washington State, but everyone around me knew it was the best decision as I would be earning a scholarship there and getting some real minutes playing. It helped me gain a lot of confidence and found out who I was as a player, and how I would be able to score the ball and help my team. I appreciate the entire staff at Seattle for my development, both past and present.
How valuable was head coach Chris Victor for your development? What was the most important thing that you could learn from his coaching? The entire coaching staff was amazing at Seattle from my first to last year there. All of the knowledge they instilled in me is invaluable. The most important thing I could learn from their coaching was that I need to work my best to be an everyday guy. Of course you will have your good and bad games, but doing your best to be consistent both in practice and in games can help your team and teammates in a lot of different ways.
You won the CBI title in 2024 beating High Point. How much did you cherish this title? What memories do you have of it? I cherish this title a lot, it was the first championship, outside of regionals, that I had won in my basketball career. The team and I worked hard to get there, and we showed up everyday in that post season, as our mindset was to win the whole thing from the beginning. My most vivid memory was coming to the top of the key, catching and shooting the three, it may not have been the best choice in that moment giving the situation of the game, and I hadn’t had as great of shooting year as the previous year, but it went in, and helped give us a boost to finish the championship game strong.
You then added a season with Iowa State University (NCAA) playing 35 games averaging 3.8ppg, 3.1rpg. You averaged 13 minutes per game and reached the NCAA tournament. What positives could you take from this season The positives I can take from my last season with Iowa State, are that even though I had built confidence when at Seattle, I was able to gain more and understand that I belong at a high level of basketball. I appreciate Coach TJ and the entire staff at Iowa State for believing in me and giving me the amazing opportunity to play in an amazing program, at the highest levels of college basketball.
You played against all the top school beating Arizona and Arizona State and others. What was your fondest experience on the court? My fondest experience on the court would have to probably be in the moments when we would get a stop through strong defense, either by forcing a turnover, or forcing a bad pass that would go out of bounds. After this I would be able to celebrate for a couple of seconds with my teammate, while the crowd would be cheering like crazy in Hilton Coliseum.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dishon Jackson? It just depended on the day, he’s a great player and we both had times where we won 1v1s in practice.
You played against many great players in the NCAA, but who was the toughest battle that is in the NBA now? I have had a lot of tough battles, its hard to put my finger on just one player.
Please name your best teammates of all-time? I have had many great teammates throughout the years. One of them is Kobe Williamson. He is playing in Australia’s NBL. He was my roommate and best friend for the three years I was at Seattle. Although we played the same position, he always pushed me everyday to become my best self.
If you had to construct your very own NBA mount Rushmore which 4 heads would you? For all time, I would probably have to choose Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and it is tied for the last spot between Larry Bird and Stephen Curry.
Who is your GOAT? Michael Jordan
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone? I have, I didn’t think it was too bad, but nothing can beat the original movie!
In general people in Germany may not know it, but Joe Asberry is a guy that has been extra instrumental in the paths of many young players find their way early when odds may have been against them. He is an ex pro player that really has seen it all from crime to drugs, but also played against legends like David Robinson (215-C-65, college: Navy), Gary Payton, Jason Kidd and Brian Shaw and was teammates with German legendary player Christian Welp. He had a 11 year professional career that saw him toil around in the minor leagues of Germany, but he belonged to the best in his day at that level. He has done so much since his playing days like being that vital spokesperson for young kids and drug prevention, being a guest speaker, a master of ceremonies at UBC Hannover, worked with Alba Berlin and currently in his second year with the Artland Dragons organization coaching girls U-14 and U-16 and boys U-18. And not to forget been a mentor for young Americans coming overseas trying to live the dream of being a professional basketball. There aren´t many Americans overseas that don´t know him. 2 players that he helped find their way were Kevin Yebo and Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri (193-SF-2002) simply known as Dami to his friends. Kevin Yebo has had a Cinderella story having began in the Regionalliga and really climbed the ranks in the Pro A and easyCredit BBL before finally reaching the Euroleague with FC Bayern Munich years later. “I discovered Kevin Yebo in Tannenbusch the roughest hood in Bonn. A big shout out to coach Danny Stallbohm in Limburg who gave him his first chance. I don´t need the credit. Kevin did all the work”, stated Joe Asberry. He met Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri and has guided him as well the last years. After moving up with Koblenz from the Pro B to Pro A, he mostly sat in the Pro A, but this season has found a new home in Speyer in the Pro B having taken a step back to recharge his career again. “I told Dami that coach Joe is going to let you play free and wild for 40 minutes. Your going to average 30,0ppg and 15,0rpg and we will win like I did back in the day. He listened and that´s exactly what he did at Tura Braunschweig”, stressed Joe Asberry. “My mentor definitely was and still is to this day Coach Joe Asberry. I’ve known him for years now and he was actually the one bringing me to Braunschweig. He really mentored me in good and bad days. It was an awesome feeling averaging 30,0ppg. Coach Joe really is great at making players play confident and comfortable. He made me play freely as long as I grab every board and dunk on people. Ade-Eri is a player that likes to do the dirty work on the court and credits Joe Asberry for being his mentor.
Joe Asberry with Kevin Yebo in Berlin
Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri who names German world champion Dennis Schroeder as being his toughest opponent ever on the court was born on August 18th, 2002 in Berlin Schoeneberg and grew up there. He played youth basketball with the Junior Loewen Braunschweig (NBBL) during Covid. This was such a tough time for players with missed seasons and less training opportunites, but he actually found positives out of it. “In my opinion, Covid was actually good for my career. Covid was a time of me grinding daily in the gym and working on weaknesses with Coach Liviu Calin and Nico Dilukila, stated Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. At the same time, he always got his feet wet playing with and against men with SG Braunschweig in the Regionalliga but only averaged 7,8 minutes. “It was actually a good experience. It was actually my first glimpse of more organized Basketball and made me hungry for more”, remembered Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. In this time, he also was able to practice with another young with Sananda Fru who reached the easyCredit BBL. I had some battles with Sananda Fru. We actually spend every summer together with some other friends and train together. I´m really happy for where he has gotten”, commented Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri.
pic credit: Angel King Media
The ex Braunschweig player who lists Raphael Ejimophor, Sananda Fru, Olivier Borgol, Dominique Johnson and Moses Pölking as his 5 best teammates of all-time then made the next step in his basketball career and went to the EPG Baskets Koblenz. In his first season he helped the club win the Pro B title and move up to the Pro A. He played a total of 53 games in 3 seasons and it may not seem like he played much, but his minutes rose every year. Did he get a fair chance there? “I played more every year. We really had a strong roster every year. I just used every chance I got and battled every minute. But I don’t think I could really put my abilities to prove, so that’s what I’m trying to do right now”, warned Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. His minutes rose from 3,9 to 5,8 to 12,4 each season. “I’d say my Basketball IQ grew the most in those three years. I’ve learned to understand Basketball at a high pace and make the right play at the right time”, stressed Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. He had some good scoring games last season against Munster and Crailsheim. “I remember those games, because they proved I was able to play on that level. My fondest moment was the pass from Moses Pölking in the post to me cutting through the middle and going up for the dunk. Beautiful feeling, the whole arena was hyped”, remembered Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. He was more than blessed having great teammates each season who all impacted him in his years of development there. “I’m really grateful for having many experienced teammates on the team. I’d say Dominique Johnson aka DJ really was the one impacting me the most. He really shared all of his knowledge with me, inspired me to play with confidence and believed in me. Don’t get it twisted, he really showed me tough love at times but was a great teammate for real”, said Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri.
pic credit: Angel King Media
This season the ex Koblenz German who lists Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Magic Johnson,Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schröder, Franz Wagner, and Detlef Schrempf on his personal NBA and German Mount Rushmore has a new challenge in the Pro B with the Ahorn Camp Baskets Speyer. “I actually like it here. It’s a small city and a quite familiar club. Good Organization and friendly people all around”, smiled Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. Last weekend he played the most minutes in his pro career with 36 in Frankfurt. Was this the best basketball decision in his life going to Speyer? “Winning the Pro B title in Koblenz was definitely a wonderful experience. And playing pro A has definitely helped me gain a lot of insight and experience in high level professional Basketball. Coming to Speyer I was expecting it to be an opportunity for me to have an important role with more responsibility for a club. The aim is to achieve the best possible outcome. It’s very nice playing more minutes, I’m really enjoying playing ball free and finally being able to use what if learned and trained for the past years So far, I don’t regret the decision”, stressed Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. He is more than blessed to have a great coach like Carl Mbassa who has noticed his qualities and given him minutes. “My relationship with Coach Carl is close. He always expects me to be aggressive and always inspires me to play as physical as possible”, added Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. He also has been very fortunate having another type of mentor figure with Speyer legend DJ Woodmore and battling against top pro B defender Dennis Diala on a daily basis. “DJ and I grew quite close over the season, we have dinner every other evening or just chill. It’s more like a friendship in which he’s just the older experienced friend that just motivates you and shares his knowledge. Dennis and I are actually good friends, but on the floor its straight business. We go at it daily in practice and exchange buckets. It’s good to have some kind of 1 to 1 rivalry, it just keeps you challenged at all times. No bad blood beside the court at all though”, stressed Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri
picc redit: Angel King Media
So what kind of a player is Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri in 2026 who names Michael Jordan as his GOAT? If one inspects his game, you would see a little Jonathan Kuminga in his game. “He is a little taller than me but I’d say I got a similar playing style,I run the transition and know how to finish well around the rim with dunks or athletic finishes. He goes for boards and is a good defender”, said Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. With Speyer he has that special role that will definitely help his entire game. “My Role in Speyer is definitely to be an allrounder and bring energy. Going for every board, defending the best man, being aggressive to the rim and hyping up the team and fans with some dunks of course”, smiled Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. Especially those guys that battle in the trenches are the most respected. “My strength really is running in transition and doing all the dirty work, putting my body on the line and going for every board. I attack close outs and play good off ball, for example with backdoor cuts”, stated Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. But there is one area with his game where he knows if he can improve that, then some more doors may be opened in his future. “I constantly work on my shot, taking extra reps and staying consistent in the gym. Right now, I try to find ways to still create the best shot for the team but working on my shot is daily work at the moment. I’ve been hitting more shots the last games but I still have a lot to work on my shot”, added Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. What goals does the young German still have with his game? “I think the sky is the limit. I really think I can reach high levels, I just need to keep hustling and believing. I know Jesus got me”, commented Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. It will be interesting to see where the journey will go in the next years for Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. One thing is for sure Joe Asberry will always give him advice and the words “sky is the limit” will always come from his mouth.
Miki Novovic (208-C-1992) is a 33 year old 202cm center from Monenegro that is playing his 13th professional season and thiird season with KFUM Kalmar (Sweden-Basketettan). He began his basketball career with the BC Buducnost Podgorica junior team. He then went on to gain massive experience in Europe in countries like Spain, Germany, Italy and Denmark. He spoke to eurobasket about his basketball career.
You have had a long career and played in 7 countries for 12 teams. What has been the biggest challenge for you being a basketball globetrotter?
I think the biggest challenge is that every day, every practice and game you need to prove something to yourself and to others. Just that you are professional and how good you are. That’s the other side of professional sport, it’s never guaranteed one bad year can put you down mentally and physically, but also one good season can move you up. So staying professional is the biggest challenge. Every country have some differences to other countries, so staying professional will help you adjust to every system, coach, country.
On your Instagram you have an interesting headline with “there is a hell, believe me I have seen it”. Of course all players overseas go through lows, but you have played professionally for more than a decade. Your life couldn´t have been that bad or?
Well that’s a quote that have a deep meaning for me. Me coming from a small country such as Montenegro and growing up there in really tough ‘90 and early 2000’s was not simple as it looks. I never thought that basketball will take me anywhere, and when you look now it’s been quite a journey. There you meet a lot of people good and bad, you go through lot of situations. Like I mentioned ups and down. So every time I have some “bad times” I just think about quote and keep pushing try to make best out of it. One year you play good and your in a good team and organization, next maybe not so. And you always try to stay professional and keep pushing. Basketball was always “safe place” and in every situation in life or profession career once you on court that’s where I enjoyed it. Even if I have issues with life, career, friends, relationships. There was always court. I think that’s what make me play in good and bad situation. I just have love for the game.
You began your career with BC Buducnost Podgorica playing in their youth. What memories do you have of that time? Did you have a mentor in those days?
Yes Buducnost was always big part of my career. I been with the youth-yes but that was first time I saw how professional basketball looks like. We were sometimes also joined with the A team, and that’s where we could learn. About professional approach, about how serious practices are, how to recover, eat, and sleep. It was again an experience that later helped me to carry myself. At that time Buducnost had one of best teams players like Marko Simonovic, Sead Sehovic, Nemanja Milosevic, Vladimir Dragicevic, Bojan Dubljevic, Vladimir Mihailovic. I don´t want to skip somebody, and just seeing how serious they were made you know and learn about professionalism which was amazing foundation for me. Also from youth there are few guys still playing and once we meet on or off the court we still talk about that and we really have true friendships untill today.
You then left your homeland and played with Ferrol CB (Spain-EBA) averaging 4.5ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 61.5%. What memories do you have of that season? You were teammates with many Spanish guys. What was your wake up call to being in Spain for first time where you knew that you were far away from home?
Yes. At that time there were not many players from our country in Spain. And it was new to me. Everything. Language, basketball, culture, their look on basketball. That was my first year of being there and we had a great system where we practiced basically 3x a day. It was more of developing than actually trying to focus on winning championship. And it was great. We were a young team, at that time our oldest player was 23 years old so we were really young. We had players from all over the world, Brazil, Cameroon,Chad, USA. It was a mix and that made it perfect. We were all with same goal there. Try to improve and find our place in the basketball world.
You then went to Germany playing with the Westfalen Mustangs (Germany-Bezirksliga) who were in a very low league. I remember reporting about this organization a few years later. Was money a big reason for playing in a low league? I remember that club having lots of money then and being able to sign guys from other countries. Yeah next destination Germany. And your right about that. That team was in a lower league but as you know our economy was great. At that time my agent told me about situation and how they have economy and will to move up, so I thought it’s good opportunity for someone young like me at that time, where I can move around easy. Germany was a nice country really, money was on time, everything was by rules. And for some of time I enjoyed it. But also being that young and having some extra money sometimes it’s not really good. Because I didn’t have life outside of court. The city I live was pretty small, and there was not much to do of court. I was getting home sick, especially I came from Spain playing year before that and their culture is very social and they hung a lot on and off court, late night outs, parties and when your young you need that stuff. Unfortunately all my teammates were married family guys or they had their other friends and I felt alone there. That’s why I couldn’t stay there long, so I decide to move. At this age I think that situation will suit me perfectly but when I was young with this mindset, it was not good to me.
In the 2015-2016 season you returned to Spain and played with Club Basquet Cantaires Tortosa. I believe they played lower than EBA. What positives do you remember getting from that experience? Yes Tortosa were great memories till this day. I think maybe I’m wrong but that was the first year they moved to EBA actually. But anyways it was amazing. Again I was trying to find anything in Spain, I moved in middle of season from Germany. As young as I was, I thought that Spain was best for me with great basketball and off court balance. So I took it. I went there and really enjoyed playing. Later in years when I didn’t play for a team, I came back to city and visited and people still remembered me and how much they loved me there and I was really happy about it. The season was full of ups and downs, but again meet some great players like for example Jaime Sorolla who was member of NT Spain later for FIBA windows and Girona Basquet, and had some great memories from that period.
You then played your first season in Italy with Valentino Basket Castellaneta (Italy-Serie C Silver) averaging 17.0ppg. You were the only real big man on that team. What memories do you have of that league? Many guys start there in the Serie C to help move up to higher leagues. Was that a stepping stone league for you?
Yes Italy is amazing. I was in Italy before that, before Spain actually right after Buducnost been there with PMS Basket (now I think they go by name Fiat Torino Basket) and spent there most of my youth. Then coming back let’s say in Italy was great. I had a contact with GM and President who wanted to sign me for a few seasons before that actually, but again I was looking for something new and wanted to prove myself so our path didn’t cross until that season. Castellaneta was a small city but with great fans and great love and passion for basketball. Till this day I think. We also started rough and we had few losses at the start, but then we found chemistry and we played great. Coach was really great to me as only big, and he was actually one making me using other stuff. Running, passing, dribbling. He didn’t want me to be stuck only as big. And it was a great season at the end. Fans there were amazing until this day they follow my journey, sending messages of support and have some best friends that I met here. It was really a great experience with people and organization.
You then discovered another new country playing with Futebol Clube Barreirense (Portugal-LPB) playing 28 games averaging 10.4ppg, 5.7rpg, FGP: 57.1%, FT: 66.3%. How important was this season for your career? You had solid games and against top teams FC Porto and Benefica. Was this your breakthrough season in Europe?
Yes. After good season in Italy I got call from Portugal. First division. It was really great basketball experience. We had a good coach but unfortunately the organization and us as a team were not ready for that extra step. And that’s why after that season the team stepped down from league. For me personally it was a great season, where I matured a lot and proved to myself that I could play well. The Team was looking bad because we didn’t have team chemistry. We had groups local players stick to them self, American players stick to them self and there was me in between haha. So that was tough, although I learned Portuguese finding the balance between team was super hard. Portugal at that time had 3-4 good teams, and Porto and Benfica led that group. I had a chance to play against some really good bigs like Sasa Borovnjak from FC Porto or Miguel Quieroz. And other sfrom Benfica such as Claudio Fonseca. The experience playing against guys such as them was really amazing. Also I lived in Lisboa, one of the nicest cities in Europe which was quite an experience. It was nice weather whole year and good food.
In the 2018-2019 season you returned back to Spain and played with Units Pel Basquet Gandia (Spain-EBA) averaging 8.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 2FGP: 64.5%, 3FGP: 66.7%, FT: 57.1%, in Jan.’19 moved to CB Miraflores Burgos (Spain-EBA). What memories do you have of that season. You bounced around. You went from the first Portugal division back to fourth division Spain. What did you learn from this season?
Yes. Spain at that time was always “safe place” for me. Since I spent a lot of years playing there, I always returned there. It was “home far from home” to me. After everything that happened with team in Portugal I was waiting for a new club but unfortunately I couldn’t find anything that I felt was good to me. I wanted to have bigger role and become leader and at that time I couldn’t find that which will suit me. I had contact with agent that mentioned me to Gandia. The club had a big tradition in basketball, great gym, great city, amazing organization and people that support basketball. I spoke to coach Rubio, who is till this day one of really good friends to me that I can call for advice or anything related to life and basketball and I decided to sign. They had a project of us moving to Plata league and I went there. The team was amazing, great mix of both older guys and young guys, older in need to mention is Shay Miller who was at that time having 44 years still playing, and playing good. That was a really pure example of a true professional. We played really good and quick we become favourites for winning it all. But at half of season, I got call from Burgos, offering me to be 2way basically. Be signed in EBA but be full time with Burgos ACB team at that time, and try to earn my minutes maybe there. It was huge for me trying to be on roster of ACB team and maybe be able to compete against some of best players in Europe. So I took it. Unfortunately the roster was full of bigs, coach Epi (Diego Epifanio) really loved me and trusted me on ACB team but we had 5-6 bigs and we all wanted to play, with me having less experience in that set. Some names I will mention is Augusto Lima, Javi Vega, Goran Huskic, Dominique Sutton. Then my secondary position as 4 was tough as well. Vlatko Cancar and German Paul Zipser came from the Chicago Bulls, so team was pretty tough. But again those 6 months with such a professionals and talents helped me later in career and even till today.
You then played 2 seasons with top Danish club Team FOG Naestved (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 4.2ppg, 2.8rpg and 5.0ppg, 3.1rpg, FGP: 50.8%, FT: 56.5%. In your second season you lost in the playoffs to Svendborg. In 3 of the 4 regular season games the games had been very close and in the playoffs as well. How much fun was it battling that team that season?
Denmark was place that I have in great memory. Not such results, since we didn’t win trophies. After a Burgos half season I had offer from them again. To be 2 way and get my minutes but now in little better position, starting there from beginning I didn’t like it because I knew I could play against all those guys and compete, also I was more mature to be in that position and I was looking somewhere where I will be one of main players and that’s how Denmark showed on map. I knew coach there who was an amazing coach and one of best friends I have Arnel Dedic. I knew his ideas and style and I decided to join. First year was more of getting things in order new coach for club, new players, and in the second season we played good. We reached playoff and lost close. It was a great series and we almost beat them in first game away, but unfortunately we lost in last few seconds. I think that “broke us” because we were so close and we knew if we get that one later with home court advantage we can go to semis and later maybe finals. I would continue there but unfortunately coach Arnel became head coach of Danish national team, and in Denmark there is rule that you can’t coach clubs if you are NT coach. So club brought new coach and players and we split ways.
You then returned back home in 2021-2022 and played with KK Lovcen Cetinje (Erste Liga). There you played with 2guys I have covered in Germany with Elijah Clarence and Isaiah Washington. The first could dunk with the best of them and the second is the master of trick shots. How do you remember these 2 dudes?
Yeah, after “corona season” and all bubble, lock downs, flight cancellations.. etc, I decided to say for a season until everything got back to normal, let’s say, because I was far from them never knowing when borders can close and maybe I couldn´t see them for long period of time, which happen to me while I was in Denmark. I signed with Lovcen, club playing in ABA 2 and Montenegrin league at that time. It was a great team and roster as you mentioned with Elijah that I’m still friends with and we see each other when he is back in Sweden now and famous Jelly, Isaiah. Another great experience and see how basketball work is small and connect people. Me and Elijah were really close because I had some Danish experience so I understand the mentality of Scandinavia and obviously he being Swedish make us hang a lot. Jelly was also a great friend till this day, kids and youth love him and he was really a fun guy. On court he was really mature- that was his first pro season but he carried himself like if it was his 10th season. Really good player and I knew he will do good. Elijah is one of best athletes I’ve ever seen. The explosiveness he got is unmeasured. I loved playing with him, he is hard working and 24/7 in basketball so I like that mindset. Unfortunately team was struggling with economy afterwards so we all basically left because of those problems.
You then played parts of 2 seasons with KFUM Fryshuset Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 9.7ppg, 6.8rpg, FGP: 50.8%, FT: 54.9% and 16.7ppg, 9.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 15.4%, FT: 67.4%. How did you like Sweden. You were able to be a real scoring and rebounding force.
Sweden, after turbulent season with Lovcen, and economic part, I decide to move to Sweden. Knowing how it was in Denmark and also talking with Elijah about Sweden during our time in Lovcen I decided to move there. First stop Fryshuset. Good league imports that are really good or experienced and Swedens best players it’s really mix of both. Fryshuset was struggling at that time which was stuck between going fully professional and just get all professional guys, or also give a chance to young guys that are coming up. Then losing some games started and imports left, some important guys left and I was only one. I played good, kept being professional as I can and had solid numbers there.
You finished the 2023-2024 season with KFUM Kalmar (Sweden-Superettan) and now are in your third season. This is the longest that you have been with one club. Has KFUM Kalmar become like a second home to you?
Yes after a Fryshuset I got signed with Kalmar. And as you mentioned this is my third season with them. Good play in Fryshuset recommended me to Kalmar and they offered me great contract. They make me feel like home. People around club are amazing people in city as well. They all appreciate me and what I do for club and that’s why every season I’m more and more motivated to play better and be better. Kalmar also slowly talking about my plans for future and they want to help me follow my dream and study to become coach after career so I hope I can achieve that and after finish playing and still be part of the game. I had interviews here and say that me staying here is some kind of me paying back for people who pushed me and help me to be and become better player and person. And people here really do that.
Last season with KFUM Kalmar (Sweden-Superettan) you exploded averaging (23.0), RPG-2 (12.5), 2.6apg, FGP: 65.2%, FT: 57.2%. You were a big time player. Did you always know that you could be a player like this? Last season I did good. Again I felt like people believed in me and they showed it. They kept pushing me and that makes everything easier. Then I shifted my focus on game and stats get better. I always believed in my work ethic and everything I just needed that trust and push which today unfortunately is hard to be found, but Kalmar as club really makes me feel that way now and I try to return it as best I can.
You had unbelievable games last season netting 41 points once, getting 21 rebounds in another game and then having a crazy 38/24 game. How has your game grown in Sweden since your arrival in Jan 24?
Yes, since I arrived I needed time. Although I´m professional and all but I needed time to adjust. Players and stuff in Kalmar help me that all be quick and accepting me like I’m there from day one. Then I focus on basketball and team and points like those games you mentioned just come. I always try to put hard work and see how far it will get me.
You picked up your game this season averaging 26/14 stats. Unfortunately the team is 0-7. What goals do you still have at age 33? How tough is it winning that first pro title when you lose like that?
After last season I spoke to team manager and as I mentioned, they wanted to “reset and start with young prospects. They were all aware that there will be loses at the start and it will be tough, physically and mentally, because it’s not nice losing but I believe in project. Yes, I am 33 but I still feel good. I still enjoy every minute on court. I had offers from other team from Sweden and other countries but I decided to stay here. I believe in them like they believe in me, but you never know. I’m open for everything but now I really enjoy playing here. It’s tough knowing the tittle seems so far but I will still work hard. Try to motivate others to work and believe. And most of all enjoy and love basketball. Right now those plans are here in Kalmar but you never know what future can bring. I will play basketball as long as I have that “spark” and desire for every practice and every game. Maybe till I’m 50 hahah and if my body keeps me going.
Who was the best player that you ever played against in your career that reached the NBA or Euroleague?
One of best players I got chance to meet, and one of players that I really admire was Stefano Mancinelli. One of best players that I shared the court with was Bogdan Bogdanovic. Captain of Serbia NT and Clippers guard. We played against each other as youthes in a lot tournaments and every time I got late on pick as I big men I got that 3 over me or 1×1 iso 3.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Good one. Let’s say position 5, probably I go with Bojan Dubljevic ex Valencia Basket, position 4- Vlatko Cancar ex Denver Nuggets and Olimpia Milano, 3 I will put Elijah although he not 3 but in my set up he will be, 2 I would go for Victor Benite shooter from Burgos and at 1 I would put, I need to put two guys Isaiah Jelly Washington and Jahmal Jones, spent with him 2 years in Denmark and 1 in Sweden.
Please list your NBA and Montenegro Mount Rushmore of 5 best players for you?
PG: Goran Jeretin SG: Suad Sehovic SF: Vladimir Dasic PF: Nikola Vucevic C: Nikola Pekovic
Who is your GOAT?
My goat uh that’s tough one. I belong to that generation when I started Jordan was best, but then LeBron showed up. But of course Kobe was there. So it’s pretty tough, but if I need to pick one then I would say Michael Jordan.
Cobie Barnes (201-F, college: SMWC) is a 201cm forward playing his second professional season and first with BC Mess (Luxembourg-Nationale 2) currently averaging 34/11/2/2 stats. Last season he played his rookie season with Ferro Carril Salto (Uruguay-LUB) averaging 21.5ppg, 12.0rpg, 1.0apg. He began his basketball career at Floyd Central High School and then played 2 seasons and 54 NCAA games for Indiana State University averaging 2.1ppg, 1.9rpg and 3.4ppg, 2.3rpg. He then played the next 3 seasons at John A. Logan College (JUCO) averaging 14.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.1%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 74.5%, at Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville (NCAA) averaging 2.5ppg, 1.8rpg and at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (NAIA) averaging 23.3ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 72.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Cobie for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second pro season with BC Mess (Luxembourg-Nationale 2). What kind of an experience has it been and what have you enjoyed most from the experience? It has been great. I really enjoy my teammates, people and just the basketball here.
Do you kind of feel like a rookie this season since you only played 2 games in Uruguay last season? I do still consider myself a rookie. I actually played more than 2 games in Uruguay but I don’t know if the stats were uploaded.
What was your wake up call to being in Europe this season where you knew that you were far away from home? Honestly my biggest wake up call that I wasn’t home were the reusable grocery bags. I think that’s something I’ll bring back to the USA.
BC Mess is 3-0. What are the ambitions of the team? Are the goals to move up? The goal is to win a championship and move up.
Your playing with fellow American Denathony McCallum who like you is a great scorer. Is there enough room for the both of you to score much on a normal game basis?
I think that DeAnthony and I play really well off of each other, and find each other within the offensive scheme great. We both like to run and play off of each others strengths.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description? I think I compare to a Paolo Banchero and Luka type of player.
You’re an explosive scorer, but also fill the stat sheet very well. Is versatility a bigger strength than your scoring?
I was always taught to impact the game in more ways than just scoring. So I think rebounds, assists, steals etc. are just as important as putting points up.
You had very many assists in 2 of the 3 games this season. Is getting a triple double something you could imagine yourself doing?
A triple double is definitely something I want to try to get before the end of the season. That’s always something that is a great show of impact on the game I think.
Let´s talk about your defensive game. How would you rate yourself as a defender in your second pro season and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? I would say that I am a really hard worker on defense. I feel like I over communicate and try to give as much effort on the defensive end as possible. I want to become a lockdown defender for the whole game as I mature in my career.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? I would say I’m looking to improve my off the ball scoring. Whether it’s catch and shoot, cutting, screening or anything else.
You had a short stay with Ferro Carril Salto (Uruguay-LUB) averaging 21.5ppg, 12.0rpg, 1.0apg. You played 2 games. What kind of an experience was it basketball wise?
We actually played a good amount of games before we played in the LUB. I went down there January 1st of 2025 and was there for 3 months. We won the LSB and the OBL. And I averaged 22, 8 and 4 assists throughout the whole season, but I don’t think they reported the stats to Eurobasket. I loved Uruguay though. I think they have some of the best fans I’ve ever seen, and the basketball is growing there. I had a lot of good vets on my team that helped me adapt to my first 3 months over seas.
You played 2 seasons at Indiana State University (NCAA) averaging 2.1ppg, 1.9rpg and 3.4ppg, 2.3rpg. This is the school Larry Bird went to. Is his legacy present there?
Yeah his legacy is felt there. His picture and statues are everywhere around campus.
You averaged 11 minutes in your 2 seasons at Indiana State playing for Greg Lansing. How would you have described your role and what positives could you get from these 2 years? Those years at ISU taught me how to be a team player. I had to learn how to be a star in my specific role and I thank Coach for that.
You had some great games against Evansville and Loyola Il. What was your fondest moment at Indiana State? Honestly my fondest memories come with my teammates. I still keep in touch with the guys and we were always smiling when we were around.
You then took a few steps back at played at John A. Logan College (JUCO) averaging 14.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.1%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 74.5%. That must have been very humbling. Usually guys start in JUCO and then move up but it´s very rare for guys to go from the NCAA to JUCO: How vital was this decision for your development and mentality? I think it was a necessary part of my journey. I needed to get comfortable being uncomfortable and Juco helped me with that.
Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have told me it was a very tough grind, but an experience that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you playing for Kyle Smithpeters? I feel the same way. Coach Kyle was tough on me but we had a great relationship. Coach always knew how to get the guys to play their best and knew how to keep us together.
You then reached the NCAA again playing with Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville (NCAA) playing 14 games averaging 2.5ppg, 1.8rpg. You averaged only 8 minutes. How tough was it coming from many JUCO minutes to little minutes in the NCAA? Despite that what positives could you get from that year? It was different for sure. I got really sick at the start of the season and ended up having to get my gallbladder removed in December of that year. And the recovery process took a couple different turns. Some positives I took from that year were to never take anything for granted. It was a tough year, but prepared me for overseas I believe. I just wanted to thank my support system for helping when I had to get surgery to remove my gallbladder. Especially my fiancé who was really my rock through it all.
You then took a step back again and played with Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (NAIA) averaging 23.3ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 72.8%. Here you were reborn. How did your game grow that season?
That was the season I knew I had to have. I went into the summer and gave everything I had to become a professional basketball player. No excuses just results. I learned how to be the #1 option in intense games at SMWC.
You had so many great games and wins but also loses. How tough was that 67-75 loss to Point Park where you scored 31 points? Is that one of those games you won´t ever forget? The losses hurt more than the wins feel good. I still think about that one and wish I could’ve done more to help us win.
How did head coach Jessie Mcclung groom and prepare you best for a pro career?
Coach McClung saved my career. He helped me with my mentality, work ethic, and becoming a great man. I look up to him so much and I owe him for life for saving my career.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jessie Burdick? Let’s just say he played hard in those games haha.
Who is the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? I would say that the best player I played in the NCAA that made the NBA was Obi Toppin. We played him my first game of my freshman year of college and that was eye opening for sure.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? My 5 best teammates in no order are: Sean East, Jake Laravia, Tyreke Key, Christian Williams, and Miles McBride.
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? My personal Mount Rushmore is: LeBron, MJ, Magic and Kareem.
Who is your GOAT?
My goat is LeBron!
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
DeLonnie Hunt (183-PG-2001, college: Richmond, agency: Players Group) is a 24 year old 183cm guard playing his rookie season with KK Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia-Premijer Liga). He began his basketball career at Rock Creek Christian Academy and also played at DC Premier (DC) (UAA U17). He then played at Wagner College (NCAA) from 2020-2023 playing a total of 99 games. He then finished at the University of Richmond (NCAA) averaging 9.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 76.6% and 15.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.7apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 84.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his 44 point game.
Thanks Delonnie for talking to germanhoops.com. You recently scored 44 points in a game and was the highest scorer in the world. You did it in first division Croatia which is a very respected league in Europe. What does this feat mean to you?
It means a lot to me personally just proving that I can compete at a very high level in Europe and that all the work that I’ve put in to prepare for this stage is paying off! Especially having that type of game against ABA league competition following a 30pt performance against another ABA league team (Zadar) also proves that I can be consistent in scoring the ball at an efficient rate!
You have been a good scorer in your NCAA career but not a guy that averaged 20,0ppg or more. Did this scoring total surprise you a bit?
I wouldn’t say surprised me but definitely impressed myself! My last year at Richmond I showcased this scoring ability before I was injured, It was just during my time in college I was never asked to score at such a high rate. That didn’t mean I was incapable but just meant I had to contribute in other major ways to winning! I always knew and had the confidence to put the ball in the basket so I can’t say it surprised me but it felt good to have those kind of numbers and result in a win.
Did you have a special breakfast or do something different on this day to help you achieve so many points?
No, nothing really special just treated the day like any other game day however we did travel to split by van the same day of the game so once we got on the court I took some extra time to rollout and band stretch than usual.
How did you feel going into the game? Do you sometimes know how your game may go after warm ups and how your shot is feeling?
Just really focused, was a much needed win to put us in a better position going into round 3, didn’t really go in overthinking just more so focused and willing to do what it took to win!
How did you get into the game flow? How rapidly did you know that you might have a real good scoring day?
My captain Gara (#5) found me on back to back fast breaks for a three that I made after I had made a layup so those quick 8 points really kind of got me going! It wasn’t until about the 3rd quarter when I realized the rate I was scoring because like I said before I was just focused on doing what it took to win the game
The team had 22 assists in the game and you 6. How many of your buckets were made on the isolation?
A good amount were made on isolation, some came from transition and P&R too. My coach trusts me not only to score but to make the right play late shot clock and when defenses switch and also I’m surrounded by shooters so I’m able to use my speed to get down hill on driving lanes and create space for 3s as well.
You produced well from the 2, 3 and FT line. Is it fair to say that you displayed your 3 level scoring well?
For sure as a small guard it’s important to be able to score in all different aspects, opens the game up for myself and my teammates.
You followed up the next game with 33 and had 77 points in 2 games. Does a performance like that of Bam Adebayo give you hope you might score 50 points one day?
Lol Not something that I am hoping for, I think it would be an awesome accomplishment but I can’t say it’s something I’m hoping for if I feel I can make it happen it’s beneficial for the team then it would be even better
What was your favorite own basket of the 44 point game?
Probably the one that gave me 40! Not just because of the points but that basket put us up 10 with 3 minutes left which is pretty tough to come back from for any team!
Did you get any special messages from people that you might not have expected from?
Yes for sure! Every message I got was special to me because it just shows the support system and the amount of people keeping up with me even though I’m not in America anymore!
Did you have to get your teammates donuts after game?
Lance Jeter (191-PG-1988, college: Nebraska) is a former professional player that enjoyed a prosperous 8 year career overseas playing in countries like Holland, Poland, Germany, France, Lithuania and China. He began his basketball career at Beaver Falls high school and then played 2 years at Polk and then finished at the University of Nebraska (NCAA) averaging 7.5ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.1apg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 68.9% and 11.7ppg, 4.4rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 72.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.
Thanks Lance for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is life treating you?
Back Home In Pittsburgh Pa Coaching HS Basketball With Brother Ramone In Our Hometown Beaver Falls PA & Also Running Our AAU Basketball Organization 4th Through HS
You retired back in 2019. Has time flown by quickly in the last 6 years? Times Sometimes Feel Like It’s Moving Fast But I Enjoy Being Home Coaching My Kids Watching Them Grow Up & Giving Back To My Community!
I always saw you as a player that everyone wanted as a teammate and everyone hated to play against. Is that a fair assessment of how you were as a player?
Yes Always The Type Of Player To Pass First & Get My Teammates Involved & Focus On Winning That’s Always Been My Main Goal! Play Physical & Tough & Always Be A Leader Out There! Even If It’s Sacrifices My Personal Stats I All I Wanted To Do Was Win!
You won 7 titles as a pro and that is probably more than 85% of all pro´s in the world. Did you achieve most that you wanted as a pro player or was their something you didn´t achieve that you would have liked? Like I Said The Main Goal Was To Win always Has Been Since I Was a Kid Playing This sport! I wanted to Be very successful As A Player & When It Was All Set & Done They Would Say No Matter Where He Went He Won!
You had a nice 8 year career. But I´m sure you could of played longer. How was your body feeling like in 2019?
My body Was feeling great. I Just Came Off averaging 24 Points A Game In Europe Cup Play With Donar & Was feeling Good! It wasn’t My Idea To Stop Playing Covid Came & Things Was Unclear And Uncertain In The World So That Kind of was The Reason I Stoped Playing & The Market Changed Oversea With Pay And That Nature!
Often guys retire because the body is hutting down or some great opportunity off the court came about. Why did you retire at age 30? Yea Wasn’t My Idea To Be Done I Felt Great Was Training To Get Ready For The Next Season & Now Since I Train 4 Times A Week It’s Just Old Habits Athletes Can’t Break Just Wanted To Be in Shape & Live A Healthy Lifestyle But Then Covid Happened & That Just Change Everything In 2019 & Was The Waiting Game After That Then Two Years Go Bye. You Have To Provide For Your Family Can’t Keep Waiting!
Was the first year tough after retiring? What did you miss most from the game?
It was Very Tough Especially because It Wasn’t On My Terms Like I Said I Wasn’t Ready To Be Done & Felt Like I Had A lot To Prove Still So It Was Tough Mentality For Sure! Darks Days You Go From Doing Something You Love and Then Suddenly It Stops So I Had To Really Get Out That Head Space & Find Something That Makes Me Happy Again To Avoid That Empty Space In My Heart!
What have you been doing since retirement? Do you have a normal 9-5 job?
Coaching Basketball & Football & Running My AAU Basketball Organization With My Brother! It’s Giving Me Focus & Happiness To Help The Next Generation & My Community To Take This Thing Further Than I Ever Did & Just Give Them The Opportunity & Things I’ve Learned Over The Years & Push Them Further Than I Did!
Do you still have a connection to basketball? I Still Have The Connection To Basketball State Side & International! Like I Said I’ve Find Ways To Filled That Gap That’s Been In My Heart From Not Being Able To Play Professionally Anymore & Help The Next Generation Coming Up & I Love It!
You began at Polk College. Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have said it was a tough grind but one that they wouldn´t have missed for the world. How was it for you?
The Toughest Times For Sure Because You Feel Like Your Being Left Behind! Your Watching All These Guys You Compete Against In HS On TV & They are On The Big Stage On TV & You Took The Juco Right Knowing You Belong On The Same Stage as Them So It’s Tough But It Builds Character and Makes You So Much More Hungry and Humble With A Chip On Your Shoulder To Get To That Next Level & You Build Life Long Friendships/Brothers From Juco Some Of Best Friends Came From Polk County With Me & We Been Locked In 10 Plus Years Now!
You then played 2 seasons at the University of Nebraska (NCAA) averaging 7.5ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.1apg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 68.9% and 11.7ppg, 4.4rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 72.8%. What kind of a player did you become there?
Nebraska Really Showed Me What Type Of Player I Could Be! My Junior Year & Senior Year Was Night & Day! Had To Get Used To How Fast & Strong The Big 12 Was At That Time & It Was Tough My Junior Year But Once I Got Used To It My Senior Year Was Great! I did A lot Of Great Things In Those Two Years & Was Coached By A Really Great Coach In Doc Sadler! I Really Left My Mark On Nebraska In A Short Period Of Time!
How tough was that first season. The team started off hot winning 9 of 11 games, but then finished the season losing 14 of 16 games? What did you learn from that season? Getting Used To The Big 12! Every Night Your Playing Against A NBA Player Pretty Much So I Had To Get Used To The Pace Of The Big 12 & Like I Said It Showed Me What Type Of Player I Wanted To Be & Leader & I Was Very Hungry My Senior Year To Leave My Mark On My School & The Big 12.
You had many great games like a 27/10/5 game in a tough 83-82 loss to Iowa State. What was your fondest moment on the court in the NCAA?
Best Moments Was My Senior Year We Beat Some Great Teams That Year! We beat a Good USC Team When We we were down By 20 At The Half! Beat The #21 Team In The Country Missouri Beat The #10 Team In The Country Texas A&M & Beat The #2 Team In The Country Texas So A lot Of Great Wins For Our Program That Year!
What memories do you have of German Christian Standhardinger. Was he a joker off the court?
Christian Standhardinger Was A Funny Guy Someone Who Could Score Everywhere On The Court and Knew How To Get To His Spots & Had A lot Of Energy. I Loved Playing With Him!
How did head coach Doc Sadler groom and prepare best for a professional career?
Coach Doc Helped Me Become A Better Leader On The Court! He Tested Me A lot and Pushed me to The Limit With Me To See If I Can Handle It and see If I’ll Break & I Owe Him A lot Since I Got There He Put The Basketball In My Hands and Let Me Run The Show I’m Very Thankful For That He Showed Me How Important Defense Was!
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Henry Sek? Sek Is Offensively One Of The Best Players I’ve Every Had The Chance To Play With He was a Real LIfe Master On Offense He is One Of Those Players Who Has Multiple Counters To Your Defense! Really A Student Of The Game I Learn A lot From Sek who is One Of My Good Friends! I´m Proud Of Everything He Does On The Court!
You played your rookie season for Lasaulec Aris Leeuwarden (Holland-Eredivisie) averaging 16.ppg, 3.8rpg, APG-5 (3.4), 1.3spg, FGP: 59.6%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 73.0%. What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
Holland is a Special Place. The People Are Great Very Welcome! Of Course My 1st Year Was Tough Just Learning The Culture Of Holland But Very Quickly I Felt At Home & Was Comfortable because Of The People Of Holland Made Me Feel That Way & I’m Forever Grateful To Them For Making It Easy!
How vital was Tjoe De Paula in your rookie season? Was he like a mentor for you?
Tjoe Was Very Important To My Rookie Year Someone Who Helped Me Soon As I Got There & Showed Me Around & Made Sure I Was Good! We Had A lot Vets On That Team Also Mark Sanchez Was Also Big Part Of My Rookie Year & Him & Tjoe Became Family To Me Years Later we Were Able To Win Championships Together So They are My Brothers & I Love Them Guys Very Much!
You played your second pro season with Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany-BBL) averaging 7.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 70.1%. You had so many incredible teammates like Daniel Theis, John Bryant, Per Guenter, Allan Ray, Phillip Schwethelm or Steve Esterkamp. What guy had the biggest impact on you?
Great Team In Ulm! With A lot Of Great Players A Special Season! Allan Ray & John Bryant Had The Biggest Impact On Me & Helped Me Get Through My 2nd Year I Had To Get Used To A New Country & New Language They Helped Me A lot Especially Allan Ray I Was With Him A lot He Showed Me How Take Care Of Business On & Off The Court! They Showed Me The Ways Of Being A Professional Appreciate Them Two So Much!
You played 1 Euroleague game and battled Mire Chatman who was one of the greatest American guards in his generation overseas. Does knowing that mean more to you now than back in the moment? You really played against incredible players.
Yes Got A Chance To Play Mire Few Times One Time In Euroleague & Couple More Times in Euro Cup He was Someone Who Made The Game Look So Easy He never Seemed Like He Was Speeding Up Game. He Was Very Smooth! I’m went Into The Game Not Knowing Who These Guys were But Found Out Quickly They Got A lot Of Game With Them!
What memories do you have of the tough 5 game series loss to Oldenburg? Games 3-5 were so tight. You battled against BBL legend Rickey Paulding. I Remember That Series Very Much. Per Guenter Was Injured In The Beginning Of The Series So I Started & Was Ready For My Moment & Had Some Good Games. I Remember Per Not Fully 100% But Coach Wanted Him To Start & Just Didn’t Feel Right To Me because I Felt I Was Playing Great That Series Knowing Per Wasn’t His Self So That Game 5 I Felt Like I Could of Played More Minutes! Ricky Paulding Is One Of Those Players I For Sure Looked Up To The Way he kept Himself Ready Each Year As He Got Older and The Way He Adapted To The Game. His Shot Got Better Later In His Career & Still Would Surprise You with A Dunk On You If You Weren´t Ready! He was a True Legend & Professional. He is a Great Person and it Was A Honor To Watch Him Through The Years.
You then played with Trefl Sopot (Poland-TBL) averaging 8.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 74.8%. You won the Super Cup which was your first pro chip. What memories do you have of that season? We Beat Rosa For The 3rd Place In The League. We Took Stelmet To 5 Games Where They Beat Us To Go On The Championship They Had A Really Great Team It Was A Tough Battle! That Season Was A lot Of Up & Down Moments For Myself & The First Time In My Career Where I Got Tested Mentally!
Then came your Jordan like run playing for Donar Groningen (Holland-Eredivisie) and winning 6 titles from 2014-2017. Were these some of your best times in your life?
Being In Groningen Was The Best Times For Me, I was Used To The Country By Now & Knew My Way Around & Knew My Teammates From My Rookie Year In Leeuwarden & Had Tjoe With Me & Mark & Jason Made Everything So Much Better & Comfortable For Me It was Truly The Best Time With The Best Fans In Holland that Supported Us!
This was also your best years. You averaged 14,0ppg twice and led the Dutch league in assists and was second once. Was it playing with great teammates that helped you to success? My Success For Sure Came From Having Veterans Teammates Who Only Cared About Winning & Letting Me Be Myself & Play My Game With A Coach Who Let Me Be Myself & Just Having Fun On The Court & Off The Court Being A Real Family. It Showed On The Court When We Were Playing! For Sure I Owe My Teammates A lot Of Credit For Letting Me Be Myself!
Jason Dourisseau came in your second season and remained after you left and would win more titles there. Was he one of your best teammates ever?
Jason Dourissea is Probably My Best Teammate, Someone Who Was Always Finding The Positivity In Every Situation. Someone Who Was A True Professional and Came Ready To Work Every Day, A True Leader Someone I Looked Up To and Who Helped Me Become A Better Leader On The Court! He showed Me How To Be A Leader Of Men! He Is Someone I´ll Put him Up There With Ricky Paulding A Real Leader & Professiona. l Love Jason Like A Big Brother Little Brother Relationship! And I´m Rooting For Him As He Is The Head Coach For Groningen Now!
You beat Zwolle twice for the Dutch title. Which title was tougher to win?
When We Played Zwolle Those Two Years, I’m Going Be Honest It Wasn’t Tough At. It Was Very Easy To The Point All We Were Worried About was Nobody Get Injured & We Will Be Just Fine! Our Team Was Really That Good & Most Of Those Games We Barely Played In The 4th Q Because The Games Wasn’t Close Or Felt Close At All!
You also played a season with ultimate player Marcus Hatten. What memories do you have of him` Was he like a role model for you?
When I Went Back To Germany Marcus Hatten Came To The Team 2nd Half Of The Season & You Can Tell He Was a Smart Veteran Someone Who Didn’t Get Sped Up While He Was Playing & For Sure Someone Who Helped Me See The Game In Different Ways & Tried To Be Few Steps Ahead Of Your Opponent So He For Sure Help Me A lot During My Time There!
You played a season with JL Bourg Basket (France-ProA) averaging 6.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 63.6%. What memories do you have of France? How did the France Pro A compare to the best leagues you played in then? Was it more elite than BBL in Germany at that time?
My Time In France Was Challenging Because It Was A New League & It’s Where I Wanted To Be Challenged Coming From Holland I Felt Like I Did Everything I Could Possibly Do In That League And Was Looking For a New Challenge To Test Myself & The French League For Sure Did That. It was Very Fast Uptempo, Very Athletic Players Also Felt Being My 1st Year Of College Again Had To Adjust To The Game & I Think I Did That the 2nd Part Of The Season! It’s Two Styles Of Play. The BBL Is More Physical & France Pro A Is More Faster A lot Of Skillful Players Both Great Leagues!
You were in Lithuania, China and Holland for your final season. That was like a roller coaster ride. How crazy was this last season? You seemed to see it all that last season. It Was A Roller Coaster But I Just Wanted To Be Comfortable And Feel Like I Was At A Place That felt Like Home & Of Course Holland Was That Place But Not Just For Me But For My Family As Well So That Was My Main Reason To Head Back To Holland!
How would you like fans to remember Lance Jeter the player?
I would Like The Fans To Remember Me As The “General” Someone Who Cared About Nothing But Winning. A Leader Of Men Someone Who Had Fun & Love Playing The Game He Loved. A Player Who Made Sure To Involve The Fans With The Game! A True Winner!
Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? There were So Many Players It’s Hard To Pin Point One! Kansas Had A lot Of Great Players Of Course Who Was Very Tough! The Morris Twins Had A Few Great Teams. A Few Of Those Texas Teams Was Very Tough With A Few NBA Players. Baylor Had A Few Great Players & Oklahoma State Had James Anderson. He Was A Elite Scorer There Texas AM Had Few Good NBA Players So Many Players!
Who were your 3 toughest players that you faced overseas?
Igor Rakocevic Is A Legend Was who was Very Good For The Red Stars! Mire Chatman Was Very Good Very Tough To Guard & Bobby Brown In The German League Made It Look Very Easy When I Was Playing Him & Jenkins For Oldenburg Was Very Tough To Guard So Quick and could Shoot The Ball!
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? 1. Allan Ray 2. John Bryant 3. Chase Fieler 4. Zach Peacock 5. Jason Dourisseau Honorable Mention Tjoe Mark Sanchez Chase Simon Sean Cunningham Ross Bekkerking
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore (5 best players ever)?
Steph Curry MJ Kobe Bryant LeBron James Shaq
Who is your GOAT? My Goat (Kobe Bryant)
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? They Should Have Left It Alone Some Movies Don’t Need Sequel And That’s One Of Them!
Marley Jean-Louis (188-SG-1994) is a 32 year old 188cm guard that is playing his 14th professional season and first with DBV Charlottenburg (Regionalliga). He began his career in the Alba Berlin organization and then played for clubs like Munster, EN Baskets Schwelm, FC Schalke 04, EPG Baskets Koblenz, ScanPlus Baskets Elchingen, Rhein Stars, BG 2000 Berlin, and BSW Sixers Sandersdorf. He spoke to germanhoops.com after exploding for 52 points in a Regionalliga game.
Congrats Marley on scoring 52 points in a crazy 148-21 win over Buchorn Bau. You won by 177 points. How crazy is that?
Thank you Miles, I appreciate the Interview. That was definitely a crazy experience that I was not expecting starting the day. I think that was the biggest win I ever had.
You scored an incredible 52 points. They only dressed 6 players. Do you feel like that helped your quest for 52 points?
To be Honest it definitely helped with more guys or all their better players they would’ve had a bigger rotation and could’ve guarded more physical and better.
Not many pro players no matter what league score 50 or more points in a game. You did it in 27 minutes. That is super efficient. What does this feat mean to you?
It’s nice, I’m happy that I was able to keep my focus high during that game and had the trust from my teammates and my coaches. It’s good that I was finally able to give our commentator Arne his birthday present. He was asking for a 40 piece and I was able to give him even more.
Did you have a special breakfast in the morning or do something out of the ordinary that may have helped your game go off for 52 points?
It was actually a kind of busy day for me we had shootaround after that I worked out a kid because I’m also an individual Skills Coach. So I didn’t really spend that much time at home and was kind of stressed about it.
How did you feel going into the game? You had been averaging over 20,0ppg in the last 5 games? Did it feel different than other games once you started hitting shots?
I was surprised that they just showed up with 6 people and our coach was mad because of it. Rightfully so of course. He kept our head straights for the game and motivated to go out and make a statement so I was just trying to stay locked in and don’t let the appearance from the other team affect me.
How quickly did you know that you may have a great scoring game in the first half?
After I was hitting a couple of 3s in a short time. That was the moment where I thought to myself let’s see what’s type of day it’s going be for me today.
The team had an incredible 43 team assists. How thankful are you for your teammates always finding you again time in and time out?
Without my teammates it would not been possible. I did disappoint some of them in the last games when I missed some open looks. So it was my way to apologize.
You hit 12 three´s. How does that make you feel that the greatest three point shooter of all-time Steph Curry only hit 1 three more in a game in his life?
To be honest I was not really thinking about it. Now that I know I’m kind of mad because I definitely would’ve tried to hit 2 more to break his record.
Did you know in the fourth quarter that you were close to 50 points?
No not really. But after I made the 3 for 50 points everybody was cheering and in the timeout Dilim told me from The stands that I had 50.
What was your favorite own basket of the game? That´s a good questions probably during that game always the next one.
Did you get any unique congrats via phone or social media after the game? No not unique. But I appreciate Adam our Marketing for uploading the video of every bucket of mine. It got a lot of love on Instagram.
Did you have to get donuts for the team? Hahaha no luckily not. I already got the team 3 or 4 donuts this season.
German Hoops 