Marley Jean-Louis (188-SG-1994) is a 32 year old 188cm guard that is playing his 14th professional season and third with DBV Charlottenburg (Regionalliga) where he averaged 21,9ppg,5,2rpg, 2,4apg and 1,2spg. 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,and BSW Sixers Sandersdorf. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Marley for talking to germanhoops.com. Let´s talk a bit about your game. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player would best fit the description? What would you say?

It’s Mike James of course hahah. No but I think a fair comparison is probably Desmond Bane. Both big guards and great shooters playing with their own pace. Besides that I took a lot of Devin Bookers game and tried replicate it so that might work too.

You were always a player that filled the stat sheet well. However do you feel like you had that label too much of being a lethal scorer than anything else?

No not really I think I can help the team and every way possible. But of course it’s nice that clubs or coaches appreciate parts of your game.

Your playing your third season for DBV Charlottenburg (Regionalliga) a team that has changed their name a few times the last years. Has this organization become like a second home for you?

I think what makes it special is that the club is in Berlin where I’m from and my family also lives there so that’s why it is something special to play for that club. Besides that I think the club has great potential and with the right focus, mindset and right decision it can be something special in German Basketball.

You’re an incredible three point shooter. How have you seen the development of your shot? It seems like your percentages have been at their best in the last few years?

One of the big reasons is the work I put in everyday and especially during the summers besides that it’s also so my mindset and my experience I gathered all over the years. I know who I am as a player and that really helps me believing in myself and my skills. I’m thankful that my coaches and teammates do that too´.

How would you describe your defensive game? How has it grown over the years?

I would describe it as physical. I use my strength to make it hard for the opponent to score. I would say at the beginning of my “professional” career I was more known of a defensive player and more of a 3&D guy. Over the years I developed my offensive game so now people might forget that I can still guard on a high level.

On what areas are you still working on now at age 32?

Everything. Especially my Athleticism and my body. I think I’m in the best shape of my life right now. Thanks to my Personal Trainer Eugen Bantschikow I have the chance to workout on a really high and professional level with him. Basketball wise I still work on everything basketball is always evolving, how to work out and new things you can do to get better. That´s why I love basketball there is always things to learn and watching the game.

This is your 9th organization in your career and you have moved around a lot in Germany. Could this be your final destination?

Except for one destination I’m happy to had the chance to see so many organizations and all the experience I made with them. If the dreams is going to be my final destination, I don’t know yet. But for now I’m happy to be part of the club. Let’s see how the negotiations are going this summer.

The team moved up to the Pro B in 2023. What was so special about that season´s team?

It was a good combination of young and experienced guys. We had a great chemistry even though most of us such as myself joined the team a little bit later in the season. Everyone had the same goal in mind and luckily we achieved it.

You beat Stade in the finals and averaged 19.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 43.9%, FT: 74.4% that season. Scoring wise it was your best season as a pro. What was the secret to having such an increase in your scoring?

I think a big reason was just being back in Berlin. Where I was feeling comfortable because I had my family and friends around me. The coach gave me a lot of freedom which helped me to get my confidence back. All these combined helped to get back to my real self

Was the playoff series loss the next season against Rhondorf one of your toughest loses as a professional. What was missing from getting over the hump?

To be honest no it wasn’t. It was a tough one and it might would’ve been the toughest loss if we would’ve been able to go to pro a but because that wasn’t a case I would rank other ones above It. I think it was just small things we had practice 2-3 times a week and didn’t have everybody at practice most of the time so we couldn’t find the rhythm we might’ve needed to pull out that win. But I still thinks as a team under these type of circumstances we performed really well and gave everything we had that season.

Last season you played with the BSW Sixers Sandersdorf (ProB) averaging 9.9ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 65.1%. This time you lost a tough series to the Miners. What was key this time for not getting over the hump in that playoff series?

Yeah unfortunately I didn’t perform as well as I wanted to this season. But the BSW Sixers will always be a special time for me. I think at the beginning of the season nobody thought we would go that far. But Lukas Vargas who in my opinion is definitely one of the best coaches in the league who would immediately make an positive impact to any organization did a great job with his assistant Magnus and made us a really good team with basically 7 new players joining the BSW Sixers. At the end again it was just small mistakes that made us lose the series. We had the chance in Essen to finish the series but missed shots and lost. At the Sixers dome I think we ran out of energy. I played poorly and we needed everybody to play good. That´s why it was a tough but fair loss.

You played a season with the RheinStars Koeln (ProB) averaging 5.6ppg, 2.2rpg, FGP: 38.5%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 80.0%. You came late and never found your grove. How tough was this season for you? Were there too many guys that needed the ball in their hands?

No I don’t think so. Cologne was just a tough year for me mentally. I signed with Elchingen in the beginning of the season but they went bankrupt a couple of days before the first game. Because it happened so sudden every other team had their roster already so I just went back to Berlin and started to practice with Berlin Braves. So for 3 months I had no real game rhythm. Then cologne gave me a chance in December and the team was already fighting to not to move down. I think I put to much pressure on myself that’s why I played a really bad season. They gave me enough chances but I couldn’t really use them. But again I really enjoyed my team in cologne that’s been probably the most professional team I ever played for with a great infrastructure plus the big gym that you can use 24/7 was a dream for a gym rat like me.

You played the 2020-2021 season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz (ProB) averaging 9.2ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 39.5%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 65.9%. Did you see success in the air for this organization? Only 2 years later they landed in the Pro A. You had some huge games early, but then couldn´t find consistency. What positives could you still get out of this season?

What I saw in Koblenz is that they invested a lot of money and forced their way into the Pro A no matter what. The only positive thing I could get out of my time in Koblenz that I had great teammates a physio and an assistant coach. I’m still in contact with some of them and especially CJ Oldham who was my roommate helped me a lot that season and these are what I´m grateful for during my time in Koblenz.

You played 1 Pro A season with FC Schalke 04 averaging 5.0ppg, 1.0rpg. You showed some moments of real success with your game. But still why don´t you think were you able to play more seasons in the Pro A?

That’s a great question. I thought I proved myself that I definitely belong in the Pro a and had a good stretch while being a starter for Schalke. Unfortunately we didn’t had a good season as a team and because of corona the season got cut short. But if I would’ve had the chance to play Pro A after my season in Schalke and landed in a good situation I would’ve definitely had a good season.

You had 2 solid seasons with Pro B team EN Baskets Schwelm. How do you remember these years playing for head coach Falk Moeller? Do you feel like your game had all the freedom it needed?

Of course I remember these years. My goal was always to play as high as possible and Omar Rahim And Falk Moeller gave me the chance. I definitely enjoyed my 2 years there and I will always be thankful of the trust and faith Falk and Omar gave me. The fans and the community is one of the best ones in the league and I always enjoy coming back and playing there. I wish the club, Falk and Omar who now works for Leverkusen nothing but the best.

You also played 2 seasons with the WWU Baskets Muenster (Regionalliga) averaging 6.6ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 76.8% and 10.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 45.0%, FT: 64.3%%. How valuable were these 2 years playing for Gotz Rohdewald and Philip Kappenstein?

Muenster was my first team outside of Berlin I played that means it was also my first time living away from home. So I never played for Götz just for Phillip Kappenstein and man these years were one of the best 2 years in my life. The whole team plus Kappenstein and assistant Schnicks I consider them as family. We still arev in contact. I’m still in Münster every year to visit some teammates. These 2 years definitely had an impact in my life on and off the court. These years I wouldn’t trade them for nothing.

You began your basketball career with Alba Berlin. Did you have a mentor in those early years?

I think I had many mentors during my career such as Courtney Belger, Anselm Hartmann, Andrej König, Jan König. Ron Mvouika. But when we just talk about Alba I would say Josip Peric was one in my NBBL years and Sebastian Fuelle and Steven Monse too. But Enrico Kufuor is probably the one If I could only choose one.

You were teammates with NBA player Moritz Wagner. He comes over as a very funny guy. What was your fondest moment with him on and off the court?

I had some great moments with Moritz. What just stood out for me from the beginning was his competitiveness and his willingness to get better. Of the court he is the same person you see on TV a fun outgoing guy. So I definitely enjoyed his company on and off the court.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the career that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

I played Dennis Schröder & Daniel Theis in my first NBBL game and they were a deadly combination back than already. Maodo Lo is definitely the toughest player to guard for me. I played him when he still was playing for central hoops and even now in the summers we workout together sometimes and it’s always a big challenge.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Let me give my top 8 Anselm Hartmann, Courtney Belger, Ron Mvouika, CJ Oldham, Aleks Dimitrijevic, Jakob Fischer, Josip Peric and Dallis Johnson

Please list your NBA and German Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time?

NBA: LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson

German: Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schröder, Detlef Schrempf, Ademola Okulaja

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James.

Thanks Marley for the chat.

Frankie Fidler (201-F-2003, college: Michigan St.) is a 23 year old 201cm forward that played his rookie season overseas with Rigas Zelli (Latvia-LBL) averaging (21.7ppg), Reb-4 (7.3rpg), Assists-4 (4.6apg), Steals-2 (1.6spg), FGP: 55.6%, 3PT-3 (40.0%), FT-5 (93.4%); in the ENBL averaged Score-3 (23.1ppg), 5.7rpg, 3.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 88.9%; and in the Latvian-Estonian Basketball League averaged Score-2 (21.1ppg), 6.4rpg, 2.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT-3 (87.0%). He began his basketball career at Bellevue West High school and then played 3 seasons at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (NCAA) averaging 12.8ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 82.4%, 14.7ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 27.9%, FT: 88.7% and 20.2ppg, 6.2rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 85.3%. He then finished at Michigan State University (NCAA) averaging 6.7ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 20.7%, FT: 83.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the 2025-2026 ENBL season.

Thanks Frankie for talking to germanhoops.com. Your played your rookie season overseas with Rigas Zelli (Latvia-LBL). What kind of an experience has it been and what have you enjoyed most about it?

You know I was optimistic when I first heard where I was going for my rookie season and it was nothing short of a great experience. I was able to really understand the European lifestyle and the thing I’ve enjoyed the most is adapting to the culture and finding what things I can use from my life back home out here.

What was it like been like being teammates with Janis Berzins? He won 6 titles in different countries and has ACB experience. Was he like a mentor for you early on?

It’s been great. He’s been a great mentor because of his experience all across Europe and I rely on him a lot to answer my questions not only about basketball but about life as well. He hasn’t only been a great teammate, but a friend as well and I’m glad I was able to cross paths with him so early in my career.

You have played excellent averaging 23,0ppg in the ENBL and 21,0ppg in the Latvian league and filled the stat sheet very well. What do you believe was your secret to having been able not to preform solidly but potently?

I think being able to play free and be myself has been vital for my success which is a testament to my teammates and coaches. Our playstyle fit my game and allowed me to play in space and either create for myself or my teammates. At the end of the day though, it’s about confidence and believing in yourself when you step foot on the court. Believing that no one can stop me from being me.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward that can fill the stat sheet with ease. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would come to mind?

I’d probably compare myself as I’m a mixture of Jaden McDaniels or Max Strus. I think I have the ability as my career moves forward to be an elite defender and a knockdown shooter. A true 3&D player. Right now though, I think I’m more of an on the ball player, which I wouldn’t say I play like them but I do watch a lot of film on the ways James Harden and Devin Booker like to score, so implementing some of their styles into my game have been a key of mine.

You have always filled the stat well. How big is versatility a staple of your game?

I think it’s a huge part of my game on both sides of the ball. Um offensively, being able to play you know position 2 through 4 is big for our team. Being able to attack different types of mismatches and then that’s the same for defense. Being able to switch 1-5 and actually stopping the offensive player is a big deal. Anybody can switch but can you not get scored on is the important thing.

You have shot the ball very well in your career starting from the NCAA until now. How have you observed the development of your three point shot? Where do you see it now and to what level do you still want to bring it to?

Yea over my career I’ve actually tweaked my shot a few times to find what suits me and feels comfortable for me. I actually think this season is the best I’ve felt about my shot and I only want to keep improving it, which I believe starts with how fast can I get a catch and shoot off, then how fast can I do it off the dribble. After that, moving shots. How fast can I get my feet set and on balance to feel comfortable to shoot. There are a lot of ways to keep improving your shot and I want to take it a step at a time but I know that reps are the most important thing for me. How many reps does it take for you to make something second nature, can you do it with your eyes closed, can you do it when you’re dead tired, etc.. A lot of things go into being a great shooter and I want to attack those as early as I can in my career so when I’m at my best, I won´t have anything to slow me down.

How would you classify your defensive game right now? What kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I think I have potential to be an elite defender for all 40 minutes of a game. Right now, I have lapses on defense especially off the ball which I’m conscious about. I’m working with my coaches through watching film and breaking down scenarios to be focused and in stance every second of every defensive possession. I think I need to offer more physicality as well, especially here in Europe it´s important to know when you can use your hands or use your body to create contact.

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

I try to work on everything when I can. I think the most important things right now are just keeping myself focused on the defensive end and reading the floor better on offense. Both things that come with film study and being conscious about improving.

You played at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (NCAA) form 2021-2024 and improved your scoring and rebound average every year. How did your overall game develop under Derrin Hansen and Chris Crutchfield?

I give a lot of credit to Coach Hansen for allowing me to be myself my first year in college. Letting me play through freshman mistakes, which instilled confidence in my ability to become who I am now. Coach Crutch just took my game to another level. He coached some elite guys at Oklahoma (Buddy Hield, Trae Young) so there was no reason for me to not listen to what he was saying to me and what he thought the best ways for me to be great were. He is one of few coaches that having a relationship during the season mattered with. Yeah we butted heads sometimes, but we are both competitors with the desire to sacrifice whatever was needed to win. I truly appreciate Crutch and the time I played for him, he’s still a great mentor for me that I reach out to with any problems I have because he’s been around the game for a while and I trust what he tells me.

You had 3 amazing games where you had 2 buzzer beaters and one game winner against Kansas City, Denver and North Dakota. What game had the biggest meaning to you?

Oh man, definitely the North Dakota game just because it was in our conference tournament and just felt like a magical moment for me. I actually missed I think 2 or 3 game winners that season so I put some internal pressure on myself that I was still that same clutch player as I was my freshman year.That Denver one was special tho man, I think it was senior night. It was a tough season with not a lot of wins on our record. Idk the whole sequence was special. I scored like 11 points in the last 75 seconds or something and then capped it off with the game winner. I felt like that was the first like real defining moment of my career, like who I could become.

What was it like being teammates with your brother Louis? What kind of a relationship do you guys share?

Good question because it wasn’t always butterflies and sunshine being on the same team as him. We actually butted heads a lot on the court but I think that’s how it goes in a competitive environment, especially with family. But I mean off the court it was great, having my big brother around again was a dream come true (we played together in high school too). Being able to share laughs with him and build new memories was great and I am very blessed and thankful we had that opportunity to share the court again.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Marquel Sutton?

He’s a problem to guard 1-1 because of his size and strength but I ended up figuring him out at one point of our time on the same team, so I’d say the total record is pretty even but I’ve definitely got more wins hahaha

You played one more season with Michigan State University (NCAA) averaging 6.7ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 20.7%, FT: 83.9%. What kind of an experience was this? You didn´t have the kind of role like you had the previous years, but reached the NCAA Elite 8.

Yea I mean it was a great experience with the team, I think the bond we shared on and off the court is ultimately what helped us win so many games and get as far as we did in March. As for me, I knew I was going to have to sacrifice something moving up a level. I didn’t know it was going to be as much as I did, but I mean I´m not mad about how it played out. We won a championship together and built lifelong memories while doing it so I’ll be forever grateful for my time at Michigan State under Izzo and for the fans, who really made the games super enjoyable to play in. Go Green!

What memories do you have of that Elite 8 run beating Ole Miss and losing to Auburn? What was your fondest moment in that run?

So that was my first time playing in March madness so I think the whole vibe it gave off is something I will always remember. I’m getting chills just thinking about the intensity, the atmosphere, and the pressure that was on us because you got 1 game to move on every round. You don´t get a second chance. My favorite moment had to be closing out the New Mexico State game. We weren’t playing good all game and I was able to check in and create a spark late in the second half to help us win. The environment of that game was incredible. Something I’ll never forget.

How did head coach Tom Izzo give you that last push to help you become a professional player?

Yeah coach was very tough on me, which was something to deal with during the season especially when I was trying to find my own rhythm and my own flow throughout games. But I think the most important thing I learned from him was what it took to win at a high level. The amount of focus, intensity, and togetherness needed to win championships is crazy high and coach taught me how to maximize that for myself.

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

That’s tough but I would say Jaden Ivey at Purdue my freshman year. He looked the part physically and was so athletic his sophomore year so it wasn’t surprising he left and got drafted that year.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

That’s tough man, I’ve had some great teammates over my career on different teams. Um I would have to start with my highschool facilitator Chucky Hepburn, we had a different type of chemistry on the court and he was one of best friends growing up. Tony Osburn and Marquel Sutton at Omaha, both are some of my closest friends to this day. I would have to say Tre Holloman at Michigan State, he helped me the most with my transition to playing for Izzo and am forever grateful for that relationship. Last but not least, its a toss up but probably Nick Sanders at State. He was the ultimate locker room guy. Didn’t play much but man could he put a smile on your face. Miss that guy!

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron (front and center), MJ, Shaq, Steph Curry

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron EASYYYYY

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

I actually haven’t seen the sequel to that. I’ll have to check it out though!

Thanks Frankie for the chat.

Benjamin Vazquez (187-G-2002) is a 23 year old 187cm guard that was born in Sevilla, Spain. He played basketball in his young years in Spain. But he decided to go abroad in the last 2 years playing in Ireland and Denmark. In the 2024-2025 season he played with the Carrick Cruisers (Ireland-Division 1) averaging 17.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, 2PT: 55.2%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 68.0% an dlast season played with EBS Holbaek-Stenhus (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 7.3ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 38.3%, 3PT: 22.5%, FT: 68.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Benjamin for talking to germanhoops.comWhere are you at the moment?

Right now I’m in Denmark, making the most of the offseason. I’m working on the areas of my game that I want to improve, training every day, and also enjoying time with my girlfriend. We’re trying to travel a little, relax, and enjoy the offseason before getting ready for next season but aproaching the time to improve as a player

You’re a 23-year-old guard from Spain and have played the last 2 seasons in Ireland and Denmark. It seems like you realized early in your career that playing abroad is better. Have you turned your back on Spain?

I wouldn’t say I’ve turned my back on Spain at all. Spain will always be my home and where I learned the game. However, the opportunities, trust, and respect that I’ve found abroad have been difficult to compare with what was available to me in Spain at that moment in my career. Playing abroad has allowed me to grow as a player and as a person. That said, I would love for our paths to cross again in the future.

You are very interested in playing in Germany. What makes the German market so attractive to you?

I think Germany would be a great fit for my profile as a player. I’m no longer a rookie and next season would be my third year playing professionally outside Spain. I’ve gained valuable experience, especially in decision-making and adapting to different basketball cultures. Combined with my style of play, I believe I could fit very well into German basketball.

Have you ever been to Germany? Is there a city you would like to visit most?

Actually, I visited Berlin this season with my club, Holbæk-Stenhus. We went on a basketball trip and had the opportunity to visit Alba Berlin’s training facilities. We spent a few great days there, and both our U19 boys’ and girls’ teams played games against Alba Berlin’s youth teams. It was a fantastic experience and gave me a closer look at German basketball culture.

How have you followed German basketball in the last years? What do you believe has made Germany the top basketball address in Europe in the last four years?

I think many basketball fans started paying even more attention to German basketball after Germany won the FIBA World Cup. The success of the national team, strong domestic clubs, excellent player development, and the ability to stay competitive internationally have all contributed to Germany’s rise over the last few years.

Is there a German player currently that you see as a role model for any young player?

Maybe the obvious answer would be Dennis Schröder because of everything he has achieved, but I don’t think all the attention should go only to him. Germany has produced a lot of talented young players in recent years, and that’s one of the reasons why German basketball is in such a great moment.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 187cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a EuroLeague player, who would best fit the description?

I think it would be a bit funny to compare myself directly to a EuroLeague player at this stage of my career. However, there are several guards that I enjoy watching and try to learn from. Because I’m not the tallest guard, I pay a lot of attention to players like Facundo Campazzo, Nico Laprovittola, Mike James and Shane Larkin. Their ability to create for teammates, score in different ways and control the game is something I really admire.

You’re a guard that fills the stat sheet well. What are your biggest strengths on offense?

Even though it wasn’t my strongest statistical category this season, my three-point shot on and off the dribble, is an important weapon offensively. But if I had to choose my biggest strength, it would be my first step and my ability to absorb contact and finish around the basket. I also take pride in my passing ability. I enjoy making difficult passes and creating opportunities for my teammates, and I believe court vision is one of my strengths.

Talk about the development of your three point shot. It was under 30% the last 2 seasons. What steps do you still need to do to become more consistent?

I understand the numbers, but I think they don’t always tell the full story. My three-point shot is actually one of my main offensive weapons and something I trust a lot. In Ireland I finished the season around 30%, but I was also one of the players taking the most three-point attempts on my team. At one point during the season I was around 46.5% from three and among the best shooters in the league, so I’ve shown that I can be very efficient from that range. In Denmark I also had games where I was very efficient from three, like 7/10 in Ireland in one game and 6/8 here in Denmark, which shows the level I can reach when I’m in rhythm. I know shooting is about consistency and also about rhythm, confidence, and decision-making across the whole season. This year my percentages went down, even though in some situations I took fewer threes than in the past. What I’m focused on now is becoming more consistent game to game and improving my shot selection and balance, so I can maintain a higher level over a full season. But I have no doubt that shooting is one of my biggest strengths offensively and something I will continue to build on.

Talk about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I’m putting a lot of work into the defensive side of my game. Coaches often tell me that with my physical tools and energy, I should be able to bring a lot of intensity on that end of the floor while staying focused and disciplined. I’m the type of player who dives for loose balls and never gives up on a possession. I also enjoy taking charges and doing the little things that help a team win. Going forward, I want to become an even more complete and reliable defender.

What defensive player do you model your game after?

I enjoy watching players who combine toughness, intelligence and competitiveness. I don’t try to copy just one player, but I really admire guards who take pride in defending and doing the dirty work for their teams. Those are the kind of players I like to learn from.

How developed are your playmaking skills? What passing guard do you enjoy following most?

Playmaking is one of the strongest parts of my game. I’ve always enjoyed making my teammates better and creating opportunities for others. If I had to pick one player, it would probably be Facundo Campazzo. His creativity, competitiveness and ability to make difficult passes look easy are things I really enjoy watching.

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

Right now I’m working a lot on playing off two feet, improving my mid-range finishing, and becoming more efficient in those in-between situations. Of course, I’m also spending a lot of time improving my three-point shooting consistency.

Who were your role models as players when you grew up?

To be honest, I spent most of my childhood playing basketball and other sports with my friends rather than watching a lot of television. But like many players of my generation, I grew up admiring Lebron James.

When and how did you fall in love with basketball?

I’ve been playing basketball since I was five years old. It happened very naturally. Like many kids, my parents signed me up for a sport, and in this case, basketball ended up being my path. You could say it was meant to be hahahahaha

Where did you begin your career and when did you know that you wanted to be a professional player?

I’ve always been very competitive, and sports came naturally to me because I was quick and agile. I never played for one of the biggest youth academies in Spain, so I wasn’t considered one of the top prospects. But I always knew basketball was what I wanted to dedicate my life to. I believed I had talent, and I was always the kind of kid who loved competing in sports. I didn’t know exactly how I would get there, but I was determined to find a way. My coaches always told me that I would have to work harder than everyone else to have a chance, and that’s a mindset I’ve carried with me ever since.

Did you have a mentor growing up? A person that really was key in your early basketball development?

Without a doubt, Tomas Lopez. He became my coach when I was playing U12 basketball. He had previously been a professional player and had a very successful career before a serious injury forced him to retire. He has been incredibly important in my development, not only as a player but also as a person. I have a lot of respect and appreciation for him.

How refreshing was your season in Ireland? You had many different nationalities as teammates. What kind of a player did you become in Ireland?

Ireland was a great experience because it exposed me to different basketball cultures and playing styles. It was there that I learned how to be a player with more responsibility, someone who had to create offense, score, and make decisions for the team. It helped me become more confident and comfortable in a leading role. I also really enjoyed my time there because of the community. I grew very fond of the people in the town and the surrounding areas. Everyone was very supportive of basketball, and it makes me really happy to see how much the game is growing there.

You played three seasons in the EBA. How did you see the development of your game there? What kind of a player did you become?

The EBA was a very important stage in my development. It taught me how to compete against experienced players and improved my understanding of the game. It was where I started developing into a more mature guard and learned the importance of consistency, discipline and competing every day, also the culture in the basketball in spain made me to understand the game better.

What are your continued goals as a player? Just reaching the highest levels? Is the Spanish top league ACB or Primera FEB a goal as well?

My goal is to keep improving and compete at the highest level possible. I don’t limit myself to one specific league or country. Of course, playing in leagues such as Primera FEB or another top league would be an honor, but my main focus is becoming the best player I can be. If I continue improving every season, the opportunities will take care of themselves.

Please name your NBA and Spanish Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time?

Im so bad answering this questions but

NBA:

Lebron

Jordan

Kobe

Curry

Spanish:

Pau Gasol

Juan Carlos Navarro

Ricky Rubio

Marc Gasol

Who is your GOAT?

100% Lebron James hahaha

Thanks Benjamin for the chat.

Robbie Robinson (196-G, college: CSUSB) is a 26 year old 203cm forward from California that played his second season in Portugal and first with Sporting Clube de Portugal Lisboa (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging 7/5/2 and in the Fiba Europe Cup averaged 6.3ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 31.8%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 60.0%. He helped the team win 2 cup titles. He played his rookie season with Galitos-Barreiro (Portugal-Liga Betclic, starting five): 24 games: 14.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT-11 (88.6%). He began his basketball career with Kearny High School in San Diego, California. He then played a season at San Diego City College (JUCO) averaging 15.3ppg, 10.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.7spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 74.6%. He then played 2 seasons at The University of Nevada (NCAA) averaging 2.7ppg, 5.1rpg and 1.0ppg, 3.4rpg. He then played a season at the University of New Orleans (NCAA) averaging 3.4ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.6apg. He then added 2 more seasons at California State University San Bernardino (NCAA2) averaging 8.3ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 60.6%, FT: 65.8% and 14.0ppg, 8.7rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 77.4%. He spoke to eurobasket during the season about basketball.

Thanks Robbie for talking to germanhoops.com. Your played your second professional season and second season in Portugal and first with Sporting Clube de Portugal Lisboa (Portugal-Liga Betclic). Has Portugal become like a second home for you?

Portugal has definitely become a second home for me. Portugal and San Diego have a lot of similarities including the people, weather and food. The very first week I was out here I struggled just because it was brand new to me and I never been outside the US before but after I adjusted pretty quickly. Portugal has a special place in my heart and I’m grateful to be able to play here again.

Sporting Clube de Portugal Lisboa (Portugal-Liga Betclic) is battling for the top spot with Benfica Lisabon. The team last won a title in 2023. How big is the hunger to win that next title within the organization?

The hunger is huge! The ultimate goal is to win cups and titles. I feel that’s what everybody plays for. I think this years team is more than capable to achieve that goal but it won’t be easy.

Sporting Clube de Portugal Lisboa (Portugal-Liga Betclic) lost the first game by 37 points. How big is the rivalry within both teams?

The rivalry runs deep, losing that first game to Benfica by that many points was embarrassing but also a great learning experience. Beating them in the second time we played each other was eye opening to the whole country I believe. It put everybody on notice that we are the team to beat as well. The gyms are always packed when these two teams play, it’s a great environment and great competition. At the end of the day it’s mutual respect from both teams to each other.

Sporting Clube de Portugal Lisboa (Portugal-Liga Betclic) has many Americans and your putting up solid stats but not as big as last season as a rookie. This season there are more scoring options than last season. How big is efficiency this season for your game?

Efficiency is definitely something I need to keep working on but I know when you move up like I did to a bigger budget team, you will be teammates with players with as much or more talent than yourself. With that you aren’t really required to play 30-35 minutes a game, you come in and do your part. It took some time realizing that because I have been a player where the offense is keyed in on me the last two years but at the end of the day it’s a team game. I do my best to come in the game and make game winning plays and let the rest take care of itself.

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

If I had to compare myself to an NBA player I would say LaMarcus Aldridge.

You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet with ease. How big is versatility a staple in your game?

I think versatility is something my father instilled in me at a very young age. I’ve always been tall but he would have me doing guard ball handling drills, shooting 3s, everything guards would do. Being versatile makes you more valuable I believe. I know I can do a little bit of everything, I’m a 3 level scorer, and pretty good passer. It’s hard to find bigs like that.

You have shot the ball really well from outside the last 3 seasons. Talk about your development of your three pointer now overseas. What kind of a shooter have you become and what kind of a shooter do you still want to become?

Shooting 3s has been a huge part of my game I’ve been working on a lot. I’ve always been able to shoot but never really got opportunities to showcase it due to the rosters I’ve been on. Being a big who can shoot raises your value for teams and I try to key in on that. I’ve become a big who can stretch the floor for teams and can shoot it at a high clip. I want to become a 40% shooter from 3, become an ultimate knock down shooter.

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

I would say I’m a defender who can guard the 2-5, I’m 6’8 but I can guard bigs who are bigger or heavier than me. Playing at Nevada is really where I took pride in defense, being an ‘undersized’ big I had to separate myself from the others. I believe my first year at Nevada I was the best statistically on defense. I want to become a guy who can guard all positions, you don’t seem many guys who can do that.

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

The areas of my game that I am working on the most would be my 3 point shooting and my footwork in the post. I need to clean up those areas and not speeding myself up. Being patient and making the right reads on both sides of the ball.

You played a season at San Diego City College (JUCO) averaging 15.3ppg, 10.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.7spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 74.6%. Every player that I have interviewed that played Juco have reported that it was a real grind, but one they wouldn’t have traded the world with. How was the experience for you?

My experience at San Diego city college was a great one. Being able to stay home one more year was a blessing. It’s funny not many people know I took a year off from school after I graduated high school. Reason behind that was because I didn’t know if I was going continue to play. I only had one scholarship offer to Humbolt state university and I wasn’t ready mentally or physically. San Diego city brought that love for the game back to me and I really played with a chip on my shoulder because of the year I took off a lot of people wrote me off.

How valuable was head coach Mitch Charlens in your early basketball development? How did he help you make the jump to the NCAA?

Coach Mitch was a coach who really cared and gave it to straight every time. Didn’t sugar coat anything, had coaches from all over the country coming to see me. I got nothing but love and respect for him.

You then played 2 seasons at the University of Nevada (NCAA) and played 54 games, but never averaged more than 2,7ppg for Steve Alford. How tough was this experience and what positives could you gain from it?

Playing at Nevada was a reality check for me, at first it was a tough experience especially being away from home the first time. I had to grow up quick. Steve Alford is a great coach, always put academics first, showed me tough love but it came from a good place. He showed me that basketball is a business, you have to produce and be a good person. I take some of the lessons he taught me into my overseas career.

You then moved to the University of New Orleans (NCAA), but played only 7 games averaging 3.4ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.6apg. You played good minutes early and then your season ended. How tough was it for your season to end so early?

Honestly I wasn’t ready for New Orleans mentally, it’s completely opposite of what I am used to. Being the only west coast kid on the team it was hard to adjust, with getting injured and only playing 7 games it was tough. I didn’t know what my recovery time was going be or what school I was going to go to next. I did make great relationships while I was there and ended up graduating with my bachelors from New Orleans but it was bittersweet leaving there.

You then moved to California State University San Bernardino (NCAA2) averaging 8.3ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 60.6%, FT: 65.8% and 14.0ppg, 8.7rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 77.4%. You made a big jump in your game in your second season. How did your game grow there?

I signed to CSUSB late actually, they had their team set already but just needed a big man. I met with Coach Newman on a visit and he was aware of the versatility I brought but told me he didn’t necessarily need all of my game. He needed an inside presence for that year and I understood. I would say my game grew because I was given the keys to the team. I was finally able to showcase my full skillset my second year and I just ran with it. I appreciate Coach Gus letting me run free.

You reached the NCAA 2 Final 4 twice. Which run do you remember being the most memorable for you?

The most memorable out of the 2 runs to the final four would be the second a lot. A lot of people wrote off CSUSB because we only had 3 returners and a brand new coaching staff. We shocked a lot of people that year.

You had many great games CSU San Bernardino like netting 23 points in an exciting 75-73 win over Chico State. What was your fondest moment there?

I would have to say my fondest moment at CSUSB would be finding out I was an All American my second year. Going from a second team all league player to one of the best players in the country was surreal to me. I was really proud myself for sticking with it and getting my masters a month later was the best accomplishment of my life.

How did head coach Andy Newman and Gus Argenal give you that last push to prepare you for a professional career?

It’s funny because Newman and Gus are two completely different types of coaches but they told me ‘don’t be a problem’ ‘always be on time’ ‘be a great teammate ‘ and most important ‘be coachable’ I still talk to both coaches from time to time. They both have had a huge impact on my life and I’m happy to see them both coaching at the division 1 level.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Mahmoud Fofana?

I don’t think we ever got the chance to play one on one but I see he’s been doing well at Cal state Northridge under Coach Newman. He’s going be a great pro next year.

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

Sam Merrill, I think he’s with the Cleveland Cavs now, man he’s always been able to shoot the ball at a very high clip. Didn’t surprise me when I saw he was in the NBA.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Jazz Johnson, Jalen Harris, Khristion Courseault, Malik Morgan. Rog Stein

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan. Shaquille O’Neal and Tim Duncan

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron James is the GOAT

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

I have not seen the sequel to coming to America. Sounds like you don’t recommend it.

Thanks Robbie for the chat.