Toru Dean (183-PG, college: Langston) is a 183cm guard from Miami Florida playing his rookie season overseas with the TSV Bargteheide Bees (Germany-Regionalliga). He began his basketball career with South Miami High School and then played 3 seasons at Barry University (NCAA2) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 65.1% and in his second season averaged 12.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.2%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 46.2%; and in his third season averaged 9.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 39.9%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 62.9%. He then finished at Langston University, OK (NAIA) averaging 10.3ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 81.0% and 9.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 69.4%. He teams up every week with germanhoops.com to talk basketball.
Congrats on the big 99-89 win over Stade. How big is this win? You only scored 9 points, but so many other guys stepped up. It’s a huge win for us. Stade is always a tough opponent, so getting a double-digit victory says a lot about our team effort. I didn’t have a big scoring night, but that’s the great part—so many guys stepped up and made big plays. It shows how deep and balanced we are.
Talk about the 40 minutes. Was this a game that you controlled for the most part or were there up-and-down phases for both teams?
There were definitely phases on both ends. We had stretches where we controlled the pace and really dictated the game, but Stade is too good to let you run away easily. They had their runs too, so it was about staying disciplined and responding every time they punched back. Overall, though, I felt like we managed the game well.
Stat-wise this game was pretty even. Where was the game won for the Bees?
I think the game was won with our composure and our ability to make plays in the right moments. Even when the stats were close, we got key rebounds, key stops, and hit important shots when it mattered. Also, our ball movement was great—everyone was involved, and that created high-quality looks.
Pauske, Hoppe and Jentz combined for 73 points. How good did it feel having this kind of support on the offensive end?
It felt great. When those guys get rolling, it makes the game so much easier for everyone else. They were confident, aggressive, and efficient. My job then becomes simple—get them the ball in the right spots and keep the offense flowing. Their performance was a huge part of the win.
You had a 9/3/7/3 game, but shot only 1/9 from the 2-point area. Was it for you a solid game up to the shooting?
Yeah, I think aside from the finishing, it was a solid overall performance. I tried to impact the game in other areas—playmaking, defense, pushing the tempo. Of course, I’m not happy with the 2-point finishing, but the important part is that I contributed in multiple ways and stayed locked in.
You shot the three well, but had problems with the closer range. Is this something you will personally address for yourself or is your confidence high enough that you will respond accordingly in the next game? Both, honestly. My confidence is always there, so I’m not worried about bouncing back. At the same time, I’ll address it—watch film, get reps, and make sure I’m finishing those opportunities. Those are shots I normally make, so it’s just about getting back to my usual rhythm.
You next battle Vechta 3 who are 2-10. What will be key to getting the win?
Not underestimating them. Records don’t mean much if you don’t show up ready. For us, the key will be defending with energy, running our offense with purpose, and setting the tone early. If we stick to our identity, we’ll put ourselves in a good position to get another win.
For Americans getting prepared for that grind overseas happens mostly with their experiences playing at the university and college levels in the United States. It doesn’t matter if it’s in the NCAA or JUCO or somewhere in between in the NCAA 3, every baller lets those years affect them in a special way. That unique time in their lives is often some if not their best times of their lives. The whole experience gets a bit sweeter when you can spend that time with your teammates. It is very rare for guys to be teammates for the whole 4 years mainly because guys will transfer or even leave early for the NBA. It is even more uncommon when 2 guys are teammates for 5 years. That was the case for Grant Golden (208-C-1998, college: Richmond) and Jacob Ginyard, 2 exceptional players who right away made an impact as freshmen in 2017 and left leaving an impact as their 5 years definitely left a mark on the school. Both were as consistent as only they could be averaging scoring in double figures all 5 years as Golden averaged 14,0ppg and 6,0rpg and Gilyard 12,0ppg and 5,0apg. Both spent time in the G-League while Gilyard even reached the NBA with Memphis and both are living the dream overseas now with Gilyard in Italy and Golden in Spain. Even years after being teammates, the collective memories and feelings towards each other still remain strong. ‘Jacob is my brother. I talk to him almost everyday and I am hoping I can go see him in Italy during one of the international breaks if we have some time off. He is family for me and my favorite person I have ever played with’, stressed Grant Golden. It is only logical that the feeling is mutual. ‘Calling him a best friend would be an understatement. He is like a brother for me. We met when we were younger. Through basketball we had similar ideas on and off the court. Living together and spending so much time on the court brought us really close. We talk all the time. I’m super happy for all the success that he has had. I love the guy. He will be at my wedding and be the God father of my kids. He is an incredible basketball player but even better human being. I can’t say enough good things about him. His family is like family to me. I love the guy’, stressed Jacob Gilyard.
Golden who names John Collins from Wake Forest as his toughest cover in the NCAA was born on January 15th, 1998 in Richmond, Virginia and first played high school basketball at Sherando high school and then transferred to St James school in Hagerstown, Maryland. In his senior year he averaged 17,2ppg, 10,3rpg and 3,5apg leading his team to the Mid-Atlantic Athletic Conference title and was named the Washington county Co player of the year. He then embarked on a illustrious career at Richmond University (NCAA). He was able to play so long mainly because he was a red shirt freshman in 2017 on account of a irregular heart beat so he had to get a cardiac Ablation to correct his heart rhythm which only allowed him to play 9 games in 2016-2017. In his years at Richmond, he reached 2 NIT Elite 8’s and even reached the Big Dance. He left Richmond having the magical 2000 points and 1000 rebounds. It was only apparent that his years at Richmond were very special. ‘My time at the University of Richmond was definitely some of the best years of my life. My teammates there have become my best friends. We enjoyed playing with each other and accomplished a lot together. I wouldn’t trade my time at Richmond for anything’, warned Grant Golden. In his last 5 seasons from 2017-2022, he played 151 NCAA games and displayed his massive consistency scoring in double figures in 122 games. He had some great games against Wyoming scoring 33 points, 26 points against UAB, 24 points against La Salle and 24 points against Wake Forest. He is very blessed to have had a coach in Chris Mooney who not only helped groom and prepare him for a pro career on the court, but also off the court. ‘Coach Mooney not only made me a better basketball player, but a better person as well. He treated us like we were part of his family during our time at Richmond. I know I can count on him for anything and that he will always be there for me’, stated Grant Golden. Who remembered senior TJ Cline winning 99% of their 1-1 battles in practice when he was a freshman. Awards and achievements that he gathered up at Richmond were being named to the All-Atlantic 10 Third Team -2018, 19, 21, Atlantic 10 All-Rookie Team -2018, All-Atlantic 10 Second Team -2020, NABC Division I All-District 4 Second Team -2020, 21, Atlantic 10 All-Tournament Team -2022, and Atlantic 10 Tournament Winner -2022
The Virginia native who lists Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Larry Bird, and Magic Johnson on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore began his rookie season in 2022 playing 4 NBA Summer League games with the Atlanta Hawks where he averaged 3/3. He then played his rookie season with the Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League) averaging 14.6ppg, 9.3rpg, 4.8apg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 18.2%, FT: 69.4%. He will never forget his wake up call to being employed by an NBA team and witnessing a player that so many guys would love to practice with. ‘I was able to earn an exhibit-10 contract with the Denver Nuggets which allowed me to participate in their preseason and training camp before I went to the g-league team. Seeing Jokic up close in personal every single day, seeing how effortless everything seemed for him, and watching how it felt like he knew things before they even happened was incredible. It is an experience I do not take for granted’, remembered Grant Golden. He was very fortunate to share the court with some NBA guys like Chasson Randle and Jared Butler who like him are overseas now as well. ‘ I got to play with some great players while in the United States. Jared and Chasson were certainly towards the top of that list. Really high level guards with a great control of the game. They made me a much better player during my time in the g-league’, said Grant Golden. He took full advantage of his time in the G-League scoring in double figures in 37 of 50 games including scorching Greensboro with a 31/13/8 game and had 2 triple doubles against Delaware and Cleveland. He showed that he was a versatile modern day big man in the G-League. ‘Versatility has definitely always been a part of my game. I have certainly never been the fastest or strongest person on the court, especially at my position. So I have always had to find different ways to be effective and have success’, stated Grant Golden. Even if he is a versatile big man like a Jokic and Isaiah Hartenstein, he never really felt like his versatile game would get him an automatic ticket to the NBA. ‘ Those guys are on a different level. Sengun is another one in that category of versatile bigs that I enjoy watching. Their natural feel for the game is something that is unmatched and really fun to watch at that level’, added Grant Golden.
The versatile big man who lists Michael Jordan as his Goat and Jacob Gilyard as one of his 5 best teammates of all time played his first season overseas with Vanoli Basket Cremona (Italy-Serie A) averaging 9.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 59.9%, 3PT: 10.0%, FT: 74.5%. It isn’t always easy for Americans coming overseas getting used to the culture and language and sometimes not finding a Mcdonalds when you need it, but for him, he discovered something special that you don’t see in the NBA so much as a wake up call. ‘I think the wake up call in my first season in Cremona was seeing some of the crowds and fans for the first time. We had our very first preseason game against Brescia and their gym was almost full and it was loud from beginning to end. To see that level of passion at a preseason game is not something that you would ever see in the United States. So very early on you realize how much these teams mean to the people in the respective city and very quickly you realize that every game, every possession matters. That is what makes it so special here in Europe and why I love playing here’, warned Grant Golden. He was fortunate to have Wayne Mcullough as a teammate in his first season Italy who really showed him the ropes. ‘Wayne is a great guy. He was certainly a great teammate to have as a foreign player being in my first year abroad. He was super helpful both on and off the court. Our team in Cremona was very close and we all spent a lot of time together. I got the privilege of getting to know his family well. I couldn’t say enough good things about him and I am glad I got to play with him in his last year before he decided to retire and move to a new chapter in life. He played his second pro season with AEK Betsson Athens (Greece-GBL) averaging 7.3ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 56.2%, FT: 72.4%; and in the Basketball Champions League averaged 10.5ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 61.3%, FT: 71.1%. He had the fortune to play against great high level players in Greece and had 2 really good games against Euroleague teams Panathinaikos and Olympiacos in losing causes. He netted 14 points against both teams. ‘I have great memories from my entire season at AEK. We had a great year and I think certainly shocked people by making the Final Four for Champions league. The games against Panathinaikos and Olympiacos were certainly a lot of fun. Any time you get the chance to play a Euroleague team it is a great challenge. So to go up against two of the best over the last couple of years was a great experience’, remembered Grant Golden.
The ex Richmond forward who never saw the sequel to the classic Coming To America is playing his fourth pro season and first with BAXI Manresa (ACB) and couldn’t be happier about his new challenge. ‘It has been a great experience so far. I am grateful to be in another beautiful country, playing for a great organization. Our management, staff, and coaches are all top notch and super professional. I think we have a great group of guys that enjoy playing with one another. The best part for me is being at another organization with great fans and support from the city. It means a lot to the players when the people and the fans care so much about the team’, commented Grant Golden. He had a good BCL campaign last season and now wants to make the next step in a higher competition with the Eurocup. ‘I think both Champions League and Eurocup are great competitions with high level teams in both. The biggest difference for me is the fact that there are no bye weeks in Eurocup. We will for sure have two games every week unlike Champions league. So mentally and physically preparing yourself for that work load, and being able to learn from a game quickly and shift focus to the domestic league on the weekend I think has been the biggest difference. Every individual, and the team, has to try and be very efficient with our schedules and time on the court’, stressed Grant Golden. Currently he is averaging 11/5/2 in the ACB, and 8/6/4 stats in the Eurocup. He is demonstrating how efficient he can be in the ACB at 18 minutes per game. ‘I think my IQ and passing ability definitely is a big part of my roll with Manresa. We play at very fast pace, therefore there is some freedom and decisions have to be made quickly. So I think I am able to use my IQ and passing ability to help the team get quality looks on offense and be a threat in the pick and roll and helping people get open shots’, commented Grant Golden.
An interesting aspect to his game is that despite being a versatile player, he hasn’t really incorporated a three pointer into his game yet. Is that something that he just didn’t have to do because every team has more shooters than ever? ‘I used to be a very good shooter when I was younger and in high school. I shot it a little bit at university but overtime, as other parts of my game developed, the three pointer is something that I didn’t really use anymore. It is definitely something that I would like to regain. Our coaches here in Manresa are pushing me to work on it a little bit every day to regain the idea and the confidence to do so. Hopefully overtime, and with more reps, it is something that I could maybe get back to’, warned Grant Golden. This season he has a specific part of his game that he is working on, a system that he has never played in before. ‘Coach Diego has us playing at a fast pace here in Manresa. I think one of the biggest things that I want to show is that I am capable of playing in such a system. The teams that I have played on before have all played much slower and much more in the half court. So I am excited for the opportunity to hopefully show that I can play in these faster systems as well with high levels of intensity on both ends’, added Grant Golden. He is extremely fortunate to have a coach in Spaniard Diego Ocampo who is a hard coach, but fair. ‘I think Coach is extremely smart, detailed oriented, and certainly knows a lot about the game. The thing I appreciate the most is the fact that he doesn’t allow us to be complacent or satisfied with any success. He knows that we can always give more and continue to improve no matter what. It his job to get this type of effort out of us and make sure it is consistent for all of us. So the honesty in this area and the constant push for me, whatever that may be for any individual on the team, is what I appreciate the most’, said Grant Golden. He has reached one of the top leagues overseas with the ACB, but what is missing from reaching the Euroleague? ‘I don’t really think about that too much. If you would have asked me before I came overseas what one of my goals was, making it to the ACB would have been towards the top of the list and is definitely something that I am proud of. But for me, making sure that I continue to improve as a player, and give my all for the shirt that I wear any given year is what is most important for me. I am excited to be a part of a historical club like Manresa and hope to be a part of a team that the fans are proud of the effort we give every night’, warned Grant Golden. It will be interesting to see where the journey of Golden will continue to go in the next years. Who knows maybe one day, he will land in the Euroleague. Then the only thing missing would be being reunited with Jacob Gilyard again as teammates somewhere overseas.
New Eisbaeren Bremerhaven guard Jemarl Baker Jr. (195-G-1998, college: N.Mexico) isn´t your typical American balling overseas. For one it isn´t everyday that you will see a 27 year old in only his second professional season, second he played at 4 different NCAA schools and third his NBA connection is wild. That crazy NBA connection becomes very apparent when you read his 5 favorite teammates of all-time. It is a standard question I give ballers in my interviews. I either get a list of not unknown players, or a list of somewhat well known players, or a mashed together list of unknown and maybe one known player sometimes an NBA player. But the list that Baker Jr gave me was probably a top 5 or maybe top 3 list that I have ever seen. His list was of Shai Gillgeous-Alexander, PJ Washington, Kevin Knox, Tyler Herro, and Keldon Johnson. A list like that will come when you played at Kentucky and Arizona. In 3 years at those schools he had those guys to chose from as well as these with Aashton Hagins, Immanuel Quickly, Nick Richards, Zeke Naji, Nico Mannion, Josh Green, Christian Koloko, Bennedict Mathurin, and Dalen Terry. He also played at Fresno State University and lastly at the University of New Mexico where his NBA connection continued where he was teammates with JT Toppin, the younger brother of NBA player OBI and with Jamal Washburn son of the great NBA player. When he looks back at his NCAA career, was this NBA connection something he enjoyed then or is something he is thankful now knowing he had it or something that doesn´t faze him at all? “It didn’t really faze me while I was playing. We’re all just regular friends that enjoy ourselves on and off the court. They’re regular people just like anybody else and they’ll continue to be my friends for the rest of my life”, said Jemarl Baker Jr.
Jemarl Baker who lists his dad as the person that influenced him most in his life hails from Menifee, California and comes from a sporty family as father played basketball at Cal State Northridge and his sister Anyia played basketball at Grand Canyon University. He began his basketball career at Roosevelt High School in California. He then went to the University of Kentucky and was a red shirt freshman. He may of not played that season, but already there his NBA connection commenced as he witnessed the play of Hamidou Diallo, Wenyen Gabriel, and Jarred Vanderrbilt. He finally played the next season playing 28 games averaging 2,3ppg in 9,1 minutes per game. It isn´t everyday that you can be coached by legend John Calipari. “My time at Kentucky was great. Learning from Coach Cal every day and competing at the highest level in practice made me significantly better. Playing at Kentucky was a dream come true and it was everything I thought it would be”, stressed Jemarl Baker Jr.. He helped the Wild Cats reach the Elite 8 and had solid games of 7 and 8 points against Abil Christian and Wofford at March Madness. So what was it like being teammates with so many future NBA players and does he still have contact to some today? “They all had a big impact on my life, I can’t single out one player. We had a great time in practice making each other better and we were all great friends off the court as well. Our teams were very close. You almost have to be close-knit in order to be so young and have success in college. We all still talk from time to time on social media”, commented Jemarl Baker Jr.. His NCAA journey then continued to the University of Arizona where he played 32 games in his first season averaging 5.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 82.6% while his second season was cut short due to injury despite him averaging 12.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 83.3%. “Going into my second year I was really focusing on my development and taking on a bigger role. In life everything is about taking advantage of your opportunity when it presents itself and that’s what I tried to do in my second year. Unfortunately it got cut short with an injury but I enjoyed played for Coach Miller and I learned a lot from him”, remembered Jemarl Baker Jr.. He had some really promising explosions at Arizona scoring 33 points against NAU and 29 points against Stanford. Who knows where that season may have taken him had he played more?
The California native who list NBA player Keldon Johnson as the toughest player that he faced in the NCAA then made another move going to Fresno State University (NCAA) averaging 8.6ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 21.7%, FT: 90.9% and in his second season averaged 12.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.6%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 75.8%. He had injury woes in his first season, but didn´t disappoint in his second season despite playing hurt. “I tore my meniscus after playing five games in my first season at Fresno State and going into my second year I was battling through some chronic knee pain but still trying to give my all for the team. That year was my most challenging year, not being able to move the way I wanted, but still trying to perform at a high level. Thankfully Coach Hut gave me the opportunity to showcase myself through the adversity and it ended up being a solid year”, remembered Jemarl Baker Jr.. He had some incredible games in his last season, but none better than his 13/14 shooting clinic against Chicago State where he netted 43 points and 10/11 three´s and also contributed 5 rebounds and 7 dimes. Does he think about that game often? “I think about that game a lot actually. As a player it’s good to remember your best great performances to get inspiration and remember what you’re capable of. Hopefully I’ll have another game like that soon. I wish I could have that kind of game every night”, smiled Jemarl Baker Jr.. He made one more stop at the University of New Mexico, but had growing pains averaging 4.4ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.0apg His minutes shrunk von 31 at Frenso State to only 17 minutes. “I was dealing with chronic knee pain this year as well. It was difficult, knowing what I’m capable of when I’m healthy but knowing that I couldn’t perform at the level I wanted to. It ended up being worth it winning a mountain west conference championship though and I might so many great people during my time there”, expressed Jemarl Baker Jr.. He had some fine performances there under head coach Richard Pitino scoring 18 points against Louisiana Tech and 17 points against Santa Clara both in wins. “Coach Pitino taught me to be confident in myself no matter what the circumstances are and always remember who I am and what I’m capable of”, remembered Jemarl Baker Jr.. So how key was having this vast experience in the NCAA playing for 4 different schools? “It was very vital for my development. I would say for my mental toughness more than anything else. I went through a lot of ups and downs with injuries in college and it was mentally draining. Learning how to deal with that mentally, by staying positive and keeping my focus on the big picture really helped me”, warned Jemarl Baker Jr. who remembers never playing 1-1 against teammate Isaac Mushila, but was certain he would of won if they played.
The explosive shooter who names Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Lebron James and Steph Curry on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore played his rookie season with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-BasketLigaen). Every American has a wake up call to being a rookie overseas and it wasn´t any different with him. “Being away from family and friends for so long was a real wake-up call. Trying to find hobbies outside of basketball was important to keep my mind occupied with so much free time”, said Jemarl Baker Jr.. He didn´t disappoint as a rookie averaging 14.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 42.8%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 74.7%. He got his first taste to overseas playoffs as he helped eliminate the Randers in 4 games, but lost in 4 games to top Danish team Bakken in the final. “ Bakken did a good job of exploiting our weaknesses defensively and we didn’t have an answer for it. I’ll learn from it and make sure I’m better when the opportunity to win a championship presents itself again”, remembered Jemarl Baker Jr.. That season he scored in double figures in 21 games and had an incredible 40 points against Naestved shooting 15/21 and 8/11 from outside. “They got the scoresheet wrong on some outlets, I actually had 43 that game but yes I think that game against Naestved was my best game. Simply because we were the top two teams in the league at that point and it was a really big game. I remember people doubting us going into the game, and I was locked in. I got a rhythm early, got in my zone and wanted to do whatever was necessary to win”, stated Jemarl Baker. He now has a new challenge in Germany with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. He doesn´t know much about Germany and it´s basketball, but is learning. “My teammates have taught me quite a bit about the food, places to visit, and of course what to expect from basketball during the season”, added Jemarl Baker Jr.. After a strong season in Denmark, he is now looking to make the next step and got some good advice from a coach who once was an assistant with the Tigers Tuebingen. “The main reasons were the culture and play-style that Coach Steve has built since taking the job here. Tom Walther, my assistant coach last year in Denmark, had a lot of great things to say about the club when I asked him what he thought about the offer. Hearing great info from somebody I trust made my decision easy, and I’m glad I took his advice, my first two weeks with the club have been great”, stressed Jemarl Baker Jr.. He is really looking forward to playing for players coach Steve Esterkamp. “My talks with coach were great. I enjoy how fast we play and the freedom that he gives his players to create and make decisions”, said Jemarl Baker Jr. who will never watch the sequel to the classic Coming To America as he feels classics should be left alone.
So what kind of a player are people in Germany seeing from Jemarl Baker Jr. who lists Kobe Bryant as his GOAT. For a guy who has watched a lot of players and been teammates with so many NBA guys, he isn´t keen on pinpointing that NBA comparison on his game. “ I’m not sure if I have an NBA comparison. Growing up I tried to add little pieces of different NBA players’ bag and create my own skill-set. I believe my game is unique and I can do a lot of things on the court that impact winning”, warned Jemarl Baker Jr.. That he can shoot out the lights is no secret and shooting is his biggest weapon, but he can also do many other things on the court. It will be interesting to see how much of an impact his shooting will have in the Pro A in Germany. Currently he is averaging 11/1/2/1 sttas and shooting 29% from outside. He shot the ball really well the last 2 seasons with 38% at New Mexico and 36% in Demark. What does he need to do to reach the 40% mark? “ I need to be more consistent with my mechanics will help me shoot over 40% from three this year”, said Jemarl Baker Jr.. But he can also be a pest on the defensive end. “As a defender I’m fundamentally sound on defense. I´m not a person that gambles for too many steals but making sure I’m in the right spots off the ball and forcing my opponent into his weaknesses on the ball”, commented Jemarl Baker Jr.. But he doesn´t want to be labelled just as a shoot out the lights player. He continues to grind on areas so he can be as versatile as possible on the court. “I´m working on my finishing at the rim for sure. I’m a big guard and finishing at the rim at a high level will and an element to my game”, stressed Jemarl Baker. It will be interesting to see how his game continues to develop in the German Pro A. Being near water is something that he enjoys coming from Los Angeles and playing in Svenborg last season and now is near water again in Bremerhaven. “I love being by the water. From time to time, I’ll go sit by the water and reset. It’s always been a peaceful place for me to think about life and keep myself grounded”expressed Jemarl Baker Jr.. One thing is for sure that he will be able to entertain his teammates about his NBA connections all season long.
Taje Kelly (203-F/C) is a 203cm forward from Georgia playing his rookie season in Germany with BBC Bayreuth. He began his basketball career at Grayson high school. He then played at Charleston Southern University (NCAA) from 2021-2025 playing a total of 120 NCAA games. He was able to improve his scoring average each season and as a senior averaged 20.3ppg, 8.7rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 61.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.
Thanks Taje for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome to Germany. How excited are you to begin your basketball career overseas with BBC Bayreuth?
I am really excited and blessed to have the opportunity to start my career off in Germany, as it is one of my dream countries to live in and I feel I will have great success here.
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?
I do not know much about Germany besides some old history and pretzels. I do know that Germany is very competitive in European basketball though.
One ex Charleston Southern University player Phlandrous Fleming balled in Germany last season. Did you ask him for any advice? No I did not but I definitely will.
What was the deciding factor that allowed you to make the decision to join BBC Bayreuth? They also are rich in basketball history. Florian Wedel stated that you were the clubs the absolute desired player that they wanted.
I feel that they would give me the best opportunity to show off my skills while winning games. Also I built a good relationship with the head coach and just felt like a proactive decision.
How did the first talks go with head coach Florian Wedel? What did you appreciate right away about his basketball philosophy? First talks felt really naturally, he expressed their interest in me and how they viewed me in their system. I appreciated the honesty he portrayed and the ways they said I could be used in the system to help bring home some wins.
You had a great career at Charleston Southern University and was player of the year in the All Big South Conference. How confident are you that your game will translate to the German Pro A? I am real confident that my game will transfer because I will not only bring my skills that I have already but I will add new skills to my game.
Are you a guy that will watch videos of BBC Bayreuth and the Pro A to be best prepared when you arrive in Germany? Yes
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? Probably and old school Paul Milsap with the ceiling of a modern day Julius Randle
You’re a modern day big man. Your also a very versatile player. Talk about how your versatility has developed in the NCAA? I feel like I was more of a small ball traditional big up until my senior year then I moved to more of a four man who could bring it in transition and make a play. I feel my biggest growth in versatility has been through playing slower and my decision making and passing.
Your three pointer is something you have used more in the last 2 years. It rose in shots taken from 38 to 59. How would you describe your 3 pointer now coming overseas. Is it still a work in progress? I would say my best 3 ball hasn´t been displayed yet so definitely a work in progress.
Talk a bit about your defensive game. You never averaged more than 0,5spg in a season in the NCAA. Stats don´t tell the whole story. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to be become? I feel that I am a smart defender, my defense may not load the stat sheet but I am able to make people miss shots, I have good fundamentals and I am able to switch onto any person onto the floor.
Your also have a big IQ. What other strength do you have that you believe is still a bit off the radar?
Passing
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you will be able to continue to improve your game? Passing, ball handling, defense, shooting
You played at Charleston Southern University (NCAA) having a great career. You improved your scoring and rebounding average each season. How did your game develop there? What kind of player were you coming in and what kind of player when you left?
I feel my game developed as my confidence grew, coming in I didn´t know what to expect but coming out have the upmost confidence in my game.
You finished your freshman year strong having 24 points in a big 79-78 win over UNC Asheville. What memories do you have of this game? I remember taking over the final stretch of the game and hitting the game winner and rolling my ankle directly after.
In your next 3 seasons you lost to UNC Asheville all 3 times in the All Big South tournament games. Is that opponent one you will never forget? Definitely will not
You had many incredible games in the NCAA including 28 points in a thrilling 71-70 win over Presbyterian. What was your fondest moment on the court? I would say my freshman year buzzer beater against Asheville
What will you always remember from teammate Daylen Berry? He came from UNC at Charlotte averaging only 1,6ppg in 23-24 and broke out last season at Charleston. He also had a versatile game. His ability to play at his size and be that efficient also his knack for passing lanes.
How did head coaches Barclay Radebaugh and Saah Nimley groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career? He taught me how to be the guy and poured their confidence in me consistently. Also loads of defensive practices.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or RJ Duhart? Me 100%
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA? Jabari Smith
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Deivon Smith
Caleb Murphy
Rj Johnson
Ian Schiefflien
Claudell Harris Jr
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Lebron, MJ, Steph, Tim Duncan
Who is your Goat? Lebron
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? No I did not
Jalen Brooks (196-F-1999, college: LSUS) is a 24 year old 196cm forward from Baton Rouge, Louisiana that is a professional player playing overseas playing his third pro season and first with Salon Vilpas (Finland-Korisliiga) currently averaging 17,5ppg, 9,5rpg, 2,0apg, 1,6spg and 1,0bs. Last season he played with BBC Nyon (Switzerland-SBL) averaging 21.6ppg, Reb-2 (11.3rpg), 1.8apg, Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 69.9%. He played his rookie season with the Shreveport Bossier Knights (ABA) and Corsarios Cartagena (Colombia-Liga) averaging 15.8ppg, Reb-4 (8.5rpg), 1.6apg, Steals-2 (2.3spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 53.8%. He began his basketball career at Woodlawn high school and then played 4 seasons at Southern Arkansas University (NCAA2). He then finished at Louisiana State University at Shreveport (NAIA) averaging 22.5ppg, 11.1rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 50.1%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 68.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Jalen for talking to eurobasket.com. You completed your second pro season overseas and first with BBC Nyon (Switzerland-SBL) averaging 21.6ppg), Reb-2 (11.3rpg), 1.8apg, Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 69.9%. How good was the feeling of breaking out and having an incredible season after your tough rookie season?
The feeling was mind blowing I knew what I was capable of but coming back after the injury was next level I really loved playing for the team and supporters in Switzerland.
You had signed with BBC Nyon in 2023 for that season, but didn´t play. Weren´t you mentally ready then? What exactly happened in your first tour of duty? My first year was like a bittersweet moment been so far from home for the first time but also experiencing a new culture and way of living. I was playing in a friendly game (scrimmage) where I tipped the ball to get a steal so I go to save the ball from going out of bounds and my leg just extended back causing me to tear my meniscus in my left knee.
How tough was not playing there where your brother Devante had once played? It was tough but the club made it easy for me because of my brother they welcomed me as if I was there before many players and my opponents knew him as well so it was a full circle moment where I just had to get comfortable.
You had a great 24-25 season. You left off from your great NAIA season. How did your game grow another step in Switzerland?
Switzerland helped me see the court better it gave me a better way to approach the game. If it’s finding a way to help my team win or finding a way to score and get my teammates open.
You helped BBC Nyon reach the playoffs, but got swept by Massagno in the playoffs. You had 2 explosive games in game 2 and 3, but your team was beat badly. What did you learn about yourself and the game in the last 2 games?
I learned that if I want to avoid that next time I should take more control and be more of an leader to a group of young guys like that. The last 2 games I changed my mindset to attack mode which only helped me as a player not my team so yes I have to learn to get my team going as well.
You had many great games last season including some 30 point games. What was your fondest moment on the court with BBC Nyon last season?
My fondest moment on the court was the Swiss Cup game we just came back from 20 against a good Pully team to get there and it was everything the coaches talked about even though we lost the experience was mind blowing we fought until the buzzer one of the funniest games I had the pleasure of playing.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? If I had to compare I’ll say my game is like a Josh Hart type of playing where I can play on both sides of the ball grab rebounds and get steals just a dog on the court who does what he can to give his team a chance to win.
The first thing that really stands out in your game is your scoring and rebounding. What other assets does your game incorporate?
Yes I’m a type of player that the little things I do don’t show up on the stat sheet but I´m great at reading the game getting in passing lanes and just being athletic while being a vocal leader on the court if I need to set the tone for the team that’s what I’m for even if that’s taking a charge getting a stop or if that’s dunking the ball giving my team momentum for the game I’m just a player who does what it takes to win giving us extra possession on the offensive glass just whatever it takes.
You’re an incredible rebounder for your height. What is your secret? Simply effort? I don’t think there’s no secret some people say the ball falls right in my hands where I say it’s just the effort and the will to just go after it. It’s one of the talent and gifts God bless me with it’s a great advantage for the game.
Is it fair to say that your three pointer is still a work in progress? Is it just reps that will help you improve or are you always thinking of other ways like mechanics in trying to help it get better? It’s just reps and mentally getting stronger. My shoulder always gave me problems where I was undecided to shot or not at any moment it just started back with the pain. I had talks with my physio about it and he said I just need to get my shoulder muscles stronger. I feel I’m a great 3pt shooter just didn’t have a fair chance to show case it yet but I been working on my shoulder and preparing for the next season
Your also a very aggressive defender. Talk a little about what kind of a defender do are right now and what kind of defender that you still want to become? I’m a good on ball defender but I’m a great off ball defender if that makes sense I like to get in passing lanes help defense coming over blocking shots instead of a good on ball defender I want to be an elite defender just a pest on ball.
On what areas of your game are you still working on most now so you can improve your game? Ball handling shooting and just the IQ for the game knowing when to shoot attack or find the open teammate.
You played your rookie season with Corsarios Cartagena (Colombia-Liga Wplay) averaging 15.8ppg, Reb-4 (8.5rpg), 1.6apg, Steals-2 (2.3spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 53.8%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home? The coach only spoke Spanish so everything had to be translated to me literally everything and there were only two players who could translate what he was telling me. Some teammates on the court couldn’t communicate with me because they didn’t know English and I couldn’t understand what they were trying to tell me because I didn’t know any Spanish at that moment I knew I was far away from home. I couldn’t understand nothing at all but I managed to get through with the little I did know.
What kind of an experience was Columbia basketball wise. How would you rate the league? Many Americans like playing there. It was a great experience especially coming back after my injury I like the league very competitive great fans and supporters the atmosphere was definitely next level good teams from top to bottom.
How valuable was it having a guy like RJ Gunn as a teammate? He was a young buck like you who also played NCAA 2, but has reached a high level now in Europe in Germany? It was valuable. He came in with his scoring and athleticism to help the team win some tough games even though I didn’t play many games with him definitely enjoyed sharing the court with him he knows how to win.
You have experience also playing in the ABA? That has got to be a tough grind? Is that everybody for themselves trying to do anything to reach a higher league? Yes you can say that I played a game or 2 just to get my rhythm back after finishing up my recovery. It was definitely a grind most of the players on the team I kind of had an idea who they were two of them I actually grew up with so I just used it to get the feeling back for the game and see where it was on the court before going back overseas
You played at Southern Arkansas University (NCAA2) from 2018-2022 where you were very consistent in 105 games. How valuable were these years in your basketball development under head coach Andy Sharpe? How did he elevate your game to the next level? It was very valuable teaching me the defensive principles of the game which helped me become a much better defender and he also had me communicating more on and off the court. He just put us in position to win and finish close games. Coach Sharpe gave me that defense DNA that’s what he was all about.
You had many great achievements at SAU like reaching the GAC final and other great games. What was your fondest moment there? My fondest moment was winning freshman of the year. It was a great accomplishment for me after overcoming a lot in the beginning of the year and with me coming in on a team that was full of vets and already established.
You then took a step back and played at Louisiana State University at Shreveport (NAIA) averaging 22.5ppg, 11.1rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 50.1%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 68.8%. Why did you go from a NCAA 2 school to a NAIA school? You had 2 reasons for doing this. Was this a classic move of taking a step back to move 2 steps forward? I wanted something different. Coach Kyle had been recruiting me since Highschool and I always saw great players succeed under him players like Jeff Garret and Coach Dp. I would say it was definitely a classic move without my season at Lsus I doubt I would even be playing overseas so I’m thankful for that moment. I’m a firm believer in everything happens for a reason.
You became a classic scorer at LSU at Shreveport after being more of a defender and hustler at SAU. How did your game grow in your last season? Since highschool I was a scorer when I went to college they already had scores like my brother Devante Brooks one of the elite scores. I knew I had to do something different if I wanted to be on the court with him I had to help out in a different way so I mainly focused on defense. When I left there I wanted to find a team where I can showcase my full game and strength so I went to LSUS where a Shreveport native and Hall of Fame Coach Blankenship put the ball in my hands and trusted in me to lead a team full of new players. I had the opportunity to be a leader teammate scorer and defender all in one season I felt like a complete player.
You reached the NAIA Sweet 16. What do you remember of that run and from the tough loss against Idaho College?
I remember the great tournament games leading on to the sweet 16 my teammates stepping up and leading the way unfortunately we faced a good team that was more familiar with each other and knew how to win.
You had so many great games, but was your 38/15/3/4/5 in the win over Xavier LA one of your best and fondest
Yes that’s was definitely one of the best games thus far in my career by far still a unbelievable stat line I think that game just showcased my all around game in what I’m capable of doing.
How valuable was head coach Kyle Blankenship for you? Is it fair to say that he gave you the keys to the team in 2022-2023? Coach Blankenship was one of kind I still thank him for the opportunity till this day. It’s absolutely fair to say he gave me the keys and I hope I didn’t let him down. I played every game until the end doing whatever it took to get us the win.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Stacey Thomas? Me and Stacy didn’t play to much 1 on 1 but I think he know I’d win hahaha.
Who is the toughest player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA? One of the toughest players was hands down Jared Butler.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Devante Brooks
Willie Reed
Cj Elkins
Telvin Thomas
Tra’micheal Moton
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?
Kevin Durant
Michael Jordan
Stephen Curry
LeBron James
Who is your GOAT? Kevin Durant
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? Yes I saw it I definitely think they should leave it alone
Toru Dean (183-PG, college: Langston) is a 183cm guard from Miami Florida playing his rookie season overseas with the TSV Bargteheide Bees (Germany-Regionalliga). He began his basketball career with South Miami High School and then played 3 seasons at Barry University (NCAA2) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 65.1% and in his second season averaged 12.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.2%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 46.2%; and in his third season averaged 9.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 39.9%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 62.9%. He then finished at Langston University, OK (NAIA) averaging 10.3ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 81.0% and 9.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 69.4%. He teams up every week with germanhoops.com to talk basketball.
Congrats on another crunch-time win this time over Braunschweig 67–63. Bargteheide has now won 3 of their last 4 games in crunch time. How has the team grown in the last 4 games? Over the last four games we’ve really matured in terms of composure. Earlier in the season, tight moments sometimes sped us up or made us lose focus, but lately we’ve been embracing those situations instead of fearing them. Our communication has improved, our defensive rotations are sharper, and we’ve started trusting each other more in late-game execution. That belief that we can grind out a win, even when things aren’t pretty, has definitely grown.
How good does it feel to win when you only shot 21% from outside and had 21 turnovers as a team? It feels great because it proves we can still win when everything is not going our way. Shooting that poorly from three and turning the ball over that much—normally that’s a recipe for a long night. But we stayed locked in defensively and kept fighting. Winning a game like that shows our toughness, and it’s the kind of win that builds character going forward.
Talk about the 40 minutes against Braunschweig. Was it tight throughout, or were there stretches where either team pulled ahead?
It was mostly tight throughout. Both teams had small runs here and there, but nothing that blew the game open. Every time one side tried to create separation, the other answered right back. It felt like a chess match—physical, defensive, and all about who could maintain focus the longest. That’s why the game came down to crunch time.
Talk about the crunch-time period. What was key in the last minute for getting the win? Discipline and execution. In the last minute we finally settled down, got the stops we needed, and made sure we got a good look offensively instead of rushing things. Defensively we communicated well on switches, and offensively we trusted the spacing and hit the free throws and shots that mattered. It wasn’t perfect, but it was poised.
You had another great scoring game with 32 points but 6 turnovers. How annoying were those 6 turnovers? There is always room to improve every week. Yeah, the 6 turnovers definitely bother me. As a primary ball handler and someone who has the ball a lot, I know I have to be sharper. Some of them were forced plays, some were just careless. The scoring is nice, but the turnovers stick with me more because I know they could’ve cost us in a close game. So it’s something I’ll keep working on, staying under control, reading the defense, and valuing every possession.
Your three-pointer this season is still a work in progress. Are you mixing anything up with your shooting to improve besides just getting up reps? Besides reps, I’m focusing a lot on consistency, same release, same footwork, same balance every time. I’ve also been working more on game-speed shots, not just stationary reps. Another thing is watching film to see if my shot selection is helping or hurting my rhythm. And I’m spending time on mental routines: breathing, resetting, and staying confident even after misses. It’s a process, but I feel it coming along.
The next game is against 8–4 Stade. This will be another tough battle. What will be key to getting the win?
Stade is disciplined, physical, and plays at a high pace, so the keys are going to be taking care of the ball and controlling the defensive glass. We can’t afford to give them extra possessions. Offensively we need to stay patient, move the ball, and attack their rotations instead of settling. And since it’ll likely be another close game, maintaining our defensive intensity for all 40 minutes will be huge. If we stay united and execute, we’ll give ourselves a real chance to come out with the win.
Robert Brown (203-F-1998, college: TxWes) is a baller overseas who has been used to nice weather climates in his life. He grew up in Dallas, Texas where he wasn’t used to balmy summers, but toasty summers in the 90’s while in the winters it got cold, but also warm in the 60’s in February. Now in November with winter around the corner, the power forward is living the dream playing his rookie season overseas with German Regionalliga team Aschaffenburg Baskets living in a historic old German city which sits on the Main river and has a beautiful castle named Johannisburg. The winters are cold and damp. But thankfully for him he got an introduction to cold winters when he was at Iona (NCAA).
‘The weather has gotten very cold I’m adjusting a little bit to it but I’m already used to this type of weather because I’ve lived in New York for 2 and half years and it gets pretty cold there’, remembered Robert Brown.
Americans who come overseas can get a real culture shock really rapidly after arriving. Imagine being in a country like Mongolia or Romania or Kosovo. Sure the big cities all have clubs, but imagine being 1-2 hours away from the biggest city and playing for an organization that has 8,000 inhabitants and no Mcdonalds or Burger King. Playing your rookie season in brutal conditions like that often can have a toll on Americans. Not being able to adapt to a new culture can even lead guys returning back stateside and giving up on the dream. Brown was simply very fortunate to have landed in Germany which isn’t only one of the best places for Americans to play, but also one of the most positive places for Americans to begin a career. Money usually arrives on time and finding a Mcdonalds or Burger King isn’t difficult either. But for him actually refraining from visiting a Mcdonalds isn’t tough.
‘Germany has been nice so far it’s been treating me very well the culture here is different and I’m embracing every moment of the people around here welcoming with open arms out here my teammates are the best and helping me with a lot especially when it comes to the language here but I love it so far! I don’t do fast food normally. The only fast food spots I visit are the Doner spots and I cook from time to time as well’, stated Robert Brown.
Most American ballers have a wake up call overseas where they knew that they were far away from home. One of the most popular answers is simply getting used to the time difference. But for Brown, that wake up call never came simply because the whole experience in Germany has been so enriching.
It’s very shocking just being away from home I Remember telling myself when I didn’t have a call I couldn’t wait to get somewhere new start fresh and start life from there now that it happened it’s a reality check on just cherishing every moment because I’ve been here since September and it’s already November so I’m just enjoying the process learning how to adapt in different environments an remaining humble over lovely experiences so far it’s building my character’, warned Robert Brown.
One of the great aspects of the exciting overseas life isn’t just the playing, but also being able to explore new cultures and just visit new fascinating places. Brown hasn’t had too much time yet to explore new cities, but he already has some destinations in the next months. ‘
‘I would like to visit Berlin. My old teammate from Iona Dwayne Koroma that currently plays for UConn this season ! He told me it’s a great scenery I want to check that out after the season but I have been traveling to other cities as far as with the team as well it’s been cool to see other cities and knowing the difference between them. I also will be visiting Jabari Rice in the Czech Republic most likely sometime in January we talk almost every day’, said Robert Brown.
Americans playing in lower leagues overseas have lots of free time. There are usually only one game per week on the weekends and perhaps 2-3 practices per week. Guys playing in higher leagues will practice twice a day and have 1-2 games per week. The teammates of Brown all have jobs or go to school, so he has a lot of time to work on his game.
‘Normally we practice throughout the week so I do weights and conditioning on our off days and get shots up when the gym is available. I also get a little workout around the basket before I go straight into shots. I get to take care of my body which is the most important thing it’s basically teaching me discipline and making sure my craft is at its best’, warned Robert Brown.
How often have I seen other pro ballers watching the Frankfurt Skyliners during a easyCredit BBL game. Guys from lower leagues will take some of their free time to watch former opponents from college or teammates from other years. Brown also has found time seeing what his peers are doing at other levels.
‘I have checked out a few teams with the Skyliners in Frankfurt and a team that’s in a different region than ours’, said Robert Brown.
A great thing about guys balling in lower leagues is that there is no other way then up for them. They have a lot of time to perfect their craft so that one day they can refrain from watching German BBL and Pro A games and possibly compete at a level like that. But at the moment he is focused less on watching the games, but more on himself. His self-confidence is sky high to one day play in the Pro A or BBL. ‘
I am focusing on myself because that’s a big goal of mine to keep working to play in those type of leagues. I believe I can play on that level I just need to keep working and remain humbled I know my time will come I’m just enjoying my process of where I am at as of now’, warned Robert Brown.
It will be interesting to see how the Aschaffenburg Baskets continue to develop and if they can reach 500 this season. As for Robert Brown, he will continue to play his game, grind in the lab and develop further. Off the court, he will continue to experience new things in his life that one day he can tell his grand children about. He is simply living the dream overseas and couldn’t be more blessed for the opportunity.
It was a long wait and grind for Robert Brown (203-F-1998, college: TxWes) between his last NAIA gig in 2023 with Texas Wesleyan University and his current team German Regionalliga team Aschaffenburg Baskets and now he is finally living the dream overseas, but there is only one problem. The team season and his game just isn´t where he wants it to be yet. As a pro player, you always want to have that perfect balance between winning and giving great support with one´s game, but so far he isn´t on par yet. The Aschaffenburg Baskets started 2-6 and have been up and down since game 1 and he is still finding his game overseas.
“We are in a slump as of now but we are sticking together through the season trying to figure out how to have a good season”, said Robert Brown.
The team began slow with a 4 game losing streak. The club that plays in beautiful Bavaria lost a few tight games and then 2 games by more than double figures. Was this just a phase where the team was trying to find themselves?
“Yes that´s correct. We are currently trying to find our identity as a team but every day we are building up good habits”, warned Robert Brown.
But that basketball is a game of runs is seen in every game and it isn´t any different with team seasons. Unless your Science City 2 who are still unbeaten right now and the team to beat in the Regionalliga South-East North. Clubs are always having ups and downs during the season. After starting with a brutal 4 game losing streak, the Aschaffenburg Baskets went on a strong 2 game winning streak beating Breitengussbach and Gotha. The team were doing it better at both ends.
“We were sharing the ball more and taking pride in defense. I believe we know we are good we just got to be consistent with it once we start back winning”, stressed Robert Brown.
However the club couldn´t keep the momentum and currently are on a 2 game losing streak having lost to Veitshochheim and Dresden. The defense allowed 91 points on average. The season is still young, but the team needs to find out ways to clean up their defense.
“I think communication and defensive situational at times but we are figuring it out as we speak”, added Robert Brown.
Brown who sampled valuable experience in the NCAA at Iona and New Mexico State University and at Iona played for coaching legend Rick Pitino is a rookie overseas and as hungry as can be. His self-confidence in the abilities of his team aren´t wanning either, but going in a very positive direction.
“ I still have hope and believe we can still turn things around it’s a long season and anything can happen”, warned Robert Brown.
In the NCAA at Iona and New Mexico State University, he wasn´t a force with his game simply because he didn´t get a real chance to showcase his real skills. That changed as soon as he got Texas Wesleyan University (NAIA) where he averaged 8.1ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 54.0%, FT: 62.5%. At the moment, he is averaging similar stats to that last NAIA season with 8/5. He knows that he has the abilities to raise his game.
“I’m trying to find more ways to be productive I’m not happy with the way I´m playing right now because I know I can be better and help the team but like I said we have a long season I’m building confidence game by game”, commented Robert Brown.
Every player has to adjust to the grind overseas on and off the court. Every baller has their own way of dealing with it. He knows that everyday is a new day and he is taking it step by step.
“I’ve been adjusting day by day it’s been a battle but I’m learning to keep the same confidence everyday it’s definitely a learning experience and what to expect on playing overseas”, expressed Robert Brown.
He also knows that he still has so much more that his game can offer to the Aschaffenburg Baskets and he is doing all he can in his vast free time to tweak all parts of his game.
“I’m working more so on my midrange confidence in shooting the 3 ball more and just being more active when it comes to the opportunity on scoring being more aggressive on that end”, warned Robert Brown.
Despite the early season woes with the record of the team, he has taken some positives from the season.
My favorite moment of the season so far was our first win of the season and my favorite own basket was the pick and pop from the top of the key I had 2 weekends ago”. Smiled Robert Brown.
He is really geared up for the upcoming game this weekend, because it will be revenge time for him and the Aschaffenburg Baskets. Science City Jena will be in Aschaffenburg for the return game. Jena tore apart the Aschaffenburg Baskets in Jena 107-79 and it was in this game where he battled his toughest opponent so far this season. He was so focused that game that he didn´t even recall whatthe player´s name was, but he definitely remembered him from somewhere else.
“The toughest player that I have faced so far this season was a guard he’s very good. He’s a very good point guard. I played against him in college my last year in college”, said Robert Brown.
I will help Robert Brown by revealing his name as D´Monte Brown. He battled Brown twice in the NAIA as he was with Langston. OK and lost both games. The interesting thing is that there was another current Regionalliga player on that team with Brown with Toru Dean currently tearing upo the league with Bargteheide leading the league in assists and fourth in steals. Wouldn´t it be a delight if Robert Brown could find that balance between a big win at home and monster game against Jena who are still undefeated. A win could be the turning point of the season that the Aschaffenburg Baskets and Brown so dearly need right now.
Going to play in Trier the last 2 seasons was never an easy task for Naz Bohannon (198-F-1999, college: Clemson) when he was strapping on the jersey with Phoenix Hagen. Here was a competitive guy who had had a 1-3 record in Trier and suffered a brutal sweep last season in the playoffs which stopped another journey to the easyCredit BBL for the ambitious Hagen squad. He left his heart on the floor during that sweep averaging 13/3/2/1 stats, but it simply wasn´t enough. But he finally got revenge again a few days ago with his new team Science City Jena. Here he was again in Trier walking on to the court to do battle against Maik Zirbes, Jordan Roland and co. The atmosphere in the Trier arena as always was incredible, but still something was different. “It is always a great atmosphere in Trier. Last season the Hagen fans went to Trier and the atmosphere was great. But I feel like now that the team is in the BBL, there is a different kind of buzz and excitement”, said Naz Bohannon. He had witnessed some really exciting games the last 2 years with Phoenix Hagen, but this time it would be different. He would finally get revenge for last season´s playoff series loss and put icing on the cake this time was that the win was not in the Pro A, but in the easyCredit BBL, a top 5 league in Europe. Fans saw an up and down game with high tempo and intensity that saw a massive run by Phoenix Hagen in the third quarter where the game looked out of reach. However the Romerstrom Gladiators staged a masterful comeback in the fourth quarter and the game went to the wire decided by a Eric Washington game winner on the last shot. “I would rank this game top 5 as most exciting in my career. I had other exciting moments like winning the title with Vechta. I also had some history with Trier as they put us out of the playoffs with Hagen. I had a lot of emotions coming into the game in Trier this time”, stressed Naz Bohannon.
Science City Jena had a difficult task in front of them with the game against the Romerstrom Gladiators. 48 hours earlier, they had lost a tough cup game which could of given them their first big success of the season as newcomer in the BBL with a top 4 ticket, but instead had lost 91-78 in Berlin. Would they have the strength to bounce back again and produce an upset against the BBL´s everybody´s darling Romerstrom Gladiators? “It is crazy but basketball has that next play mentality. We were sour after the cup loss in Berlin, a game we felt we should of won. But we only had a few days until the Trier game and paid attention to that. We had to be mature and be like men and be ready quickly. We focused on Trier and couldn´t scout until we were in the hotel in Trier”. remembered Naz Bohannon. Trier began with 3 dunks in a row to start the game from Urald King and Martin Linnsen. Giving a team that kind of energy in their own living room can be disastrous. “You never want to give up that kind of momentum especially in a place like Trier. But I noticed right away that those dunks didn´t rattle us. Dunks feel like 4 point plays, but we weren´t out of reach trailing only 6-3. We were still in the game”, stressed Naz Bohannon. The first quarter was a typical back and forth game with Trier leading 26-24. The game had a very fast tempo one that could have been very difficult to continue for 40 minutes considering the team had had a big battle in Berlin 48 hours earlier. “I feel like the pace that we had to play with then was fine. It is a kind of pace that we are used to play. However we also knew that it was our second game in 3 days. We knew that we had to conserve some energy for the whole game. We knew that we had to slow the game down a bit to sustain all our energy for the whole 40 minutes”, stated Naz Bohannon.
In the second quarter, Science City Jena lost a little focus and allowed Trier to go on a 8-2 run to trail 34-26. Talented guards Eli Brooks and Jordan Roland did all the damage scoring all the points. “They both are tough to guard. They play with a lot of confidence. They like to play fast. Important when defending players like that is to pay attention to what you can do in certain situations like giving them different defensive looks and not letting them get to comfortable. If you fail to locate them then it probably will be a bucket”, commented Naz Bohannon. The contest kept going in a positive direction for Trier as they led by as much as 10 points, but Jena kept fighting. Bohannon who played a season at Clemson had back to back baskets and Chris Carter a trey to trail only 54-52 at the break. A great quality that every new BBL team needs is to have are those defined fighting qualities that allows them to stay in games for 40 minutes and have a chance to win. “We are built on having those fighting qualities. We knew form the start that in order to be successful in a league like the BBL, we have to hang our hats on being a dog. That has been our core piece this season”, warned Naz Bohannon. The game was tight going into the second quarter and head coach Bjoern Harmsen reminded Bohannon and his teammates about what had happened in Berlin. “He told us that we had to build on what took place in Berlin a few days prior. We were in the same position like in Berlin. In Trier in this situation, we had to be men and be tough. It was time to step up and be focused and stand our character”, said Naz Bohannon. In the third quarter Science City Jena turned the game around with a 17-2 run to lead 69-56 and after 30 minutes led 79-66. Jena let it rain three´s early and also got to the hole. This had to be one of the best team basketball phases of the season. “For sure it was. I think like everybody saw then what people usually don´t see in practice. We now put it on front street and showed how we can play when all is clicking”, stressed Naz Bohannon.
Science City Jena had a mini run in the first minute of the fourth quarter and led by 18 points. But Jena was unable to run with the momentum and allowed a brutal 23-6 run to trail 93-90 with 1,58 to play. Did the team believe the game was won to early, because Trier still had energy and came back? “I don´t think that we believed the game was over then. We wanted to finish strong, but basketball is a game of runs. They gave a tough fight and we had to weather the storm. They did a good job slowing down the game. We had to find our way and somehow play through it. We knew that we had to string along some stops. They did a good job changing the flow of the game”, remembered Naz Bohannon. Trier trailed 93-92 and ex Iowa University (NCAA) forward Joe Wieskamp suffered an offensive foul with 23 seconds. Trier now had the chance to win the game on possibly the last possession of then game. “We were playing hard and Joe got caught up in it. We were making quick decisions. We had to fix it. We focused on the next play and knew we needed a stop”, warned Naz Bohannon. But Jena was aided by the basketball God in the hostile environment as German Nolan Adekunle scored to lead 94-93 and was nice enough to leave 5 seconds on the clock. Jena called timeout. Was the last play drawn up for Eric Washington or were their other options? “We had numerous options. We wanted to give Eric the ball and let him make a play and be ready for a rebound. In a situation like this it´s not about x´s and o´s but the Jimmy and Joe´s. We had total confidence in Eric making a play”, added Naz Bohannon. I´m sure if I asked all 17 easyCredit BBL coaches if they would like to have a guy like Eric Washington on their team, a majority would say yes. He is as clutch as it can be and simply a winner. The walking bucket has made big shots his whole life whether it was in Bosnia, France or Italy. He has BBL experience and did it a few years ago when he was with the MLP Academics Heidelberg as well. It was only logical that he would take and make the last shot in spectacular fashion with a step back jumper. “I knew his last shot would go in. I was under the basket and had the perfect angle. I´m a huge believer in work ethic and Eric has that. He is such a pro. Always first in the gym and last to go. He works on moments like these everyday. I think it is great that he is on the team. I want to take the next step in the BBL and to have a guy like that on the team is huge. He understands what it takes to be successful. He is a leader and to have him in the locker room is so important. His energy is culture changing”, warned Naz Bohannon.
Science City Jena go into the Fiba break sitting in seventh place with a 4-3 record. Beating a top team like the Romerstrom Gladiators couldn´t have occurred at a better time for them. “The win in Trier was huge. This win is definitely something we can build on looking ahead. We are a team that is tough and always takes pride. This win was very exciting”, stressed Naz Bohannon. BBL newcomers Trier and Jena have surprised many this season, but what will the troops of Bjoern Harmsen have to do to stay consistent and keep winning? “We need to capitalize on the Trier win. We don´t want to look ahead to much. Just take it one day at a time, on game at a time and one play at a time. We believe in ourselves. We have to stay together and tough. We are a gritty group. If we can do that we will be fine. We have to keep growing and maybe make some history this season.”, warned Naz Bohannon. The ex Youngstown State University (NCAA) forward was averaging only 4,0ppg and 3,0rpg in the first 6 BBL games, but broke out in the classic win in Trier with a 12/10 game. “It felt good to contribute the way that I did and fully engage. My start didn´t really bother me. It is all a process. I´m just comfortable with whatever I have to do on the court for the team to be successful. I was playing the role that coached called me to do”, smiled Naz Bohannon. The team now has the Fiba break and it is only logical that the team was really thrilled after the win. “We were very excited. We celebrated a bit in the locker room. We rested a bit on the bus, but our adrenaline was up. We might have slept an hour on the bus. We have some days off now. We will take sometime now to let our bodies recover, but at the same time never losing our focus on the task ahead”, warned Naz Bohannon. It will be interesting to see how Science City Jena will play again after the Fiba break. Nothing is given in the easyCredit BBL as they have 3 tough games before X-mas with 2 home games against Ulm and Bamberg and a road game against Frankfurt. It is always nice seeing these special cases with teams having success coming from the Pro A. It would be nice if Science City Jena can keep up the momentum and make some more upsets in the next weeks. Bjoern Harmsen surely will have his special basketball culture ready for battle every game.
Demarcus Demonia (201-G/F-1999, college: ETAMU) is a 26 year old 201cm forward from Maryland playing his third professional season and first with the Bamberg Baskets averaging 12,5ppg, 5,8rpg, 1,0apg, 1,5spg and 1,0bpg. Last season he played with BBC Bayreuth (Germany-ProA) averaging 18.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 82.7%. He played his rookie season with Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions (Austria-BSL) averaging 19.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 29.7%, FT: 76.1%.He began his basketball career at Friendly High School and also played at Charles H Flowers high school. He then played 2 seasons at Allegany College of Maryland (JUCO) averaging 18.2ppg, 8.1rpg, 3.2apg, 1.1spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 55.2% and in his second season averaged 21.3ppg, 11.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.5spg, 1.8bpg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT: 72.8%. He then played 3 years at Texas A&M University – Commerce (NCAA) and as a senior averaged 15.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 67.1%. He spoke to Germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.
Congrats Demarcus on signing with the Bamberg Baskets. How excited are you to be able to call yourself an easyCredit BBL player now?
Thank you!! It’s definitely exciting but I’m more proud of myself with the journey I’ve had to get to this place in my career. Also ready to show myself that I can compete at this level like I know I can.
How vital was it for you playing last season in the Pro A for extra grooming? I feel like it was a great step in my career process but I feel as though I can play in any predicament. It may take a little adjusting to some things but it’ll be a quick one.
Are you aware of the history of the organization? Guys like Casey Jacobsen, Darius Miller and Daniel Theis all won titles here in the last few years. Were you aware of that? No, I wasn’t aware of that at all but I’ll definitely do some more research and do my part on and off the court to help the team and organization back on that track.
It is a no brainer playing for a great organization like the Bamberg Baskets. What else do you like about the organization besides the great fans? I’ve heard great things about the coaches as well and know some of the background of some players. In addition to the Arena, it is very nice.
What do you appreciate most about head coach Anton Gavel? What do you enjoy about his basketball philosophy? I’m not sure yet but I’ve only heard good things about him so I can’t wait to get to Bamberg and see the things I can learn from him.
You were a scorer in Austria and Bayreuth. Do you feel like you can be an impact player in the easyCredit BBL? Yes, I feel as though I can be that same player in Bamberg as well but most importantly is just going on the floor everytime giving it my all and doing whatever is best for the team to get a win.
You have shown in your whole career that you can be more than just a prolific scorer. Would you be able to step down from being a big scorer in the BBL if asked? I’m sure I’d have my games where it might be a bad shooting night and will find other ways to help the team win. But if that’s what I’m asked of then I’d sacrifice that for the team. I work on perfecting my craft everyday so I wouldn’t think I’d have to change that or take less of a role.
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 try to simulate my game to Paul George and Russel Westbrook.
You are such a versatile player. You were already versatile in JUCO. Talk a little about the development of your versatility in the last 7 years? Over the last 7 years I’ve worked on becoming and staying a way the most players aren’t. I try to stand out and do more than just one thing on both sides of the basketball and on offense it’s hard to guard at times when you can do so many different things.
Your three pointer is still a work in progress. How vital is this part of your game at the moment? Is it big on your game agenda of continuing to improve? Yes, I still want to improve it even more and have been working on it every day.
Talk a little about your defensive game. You have proven to be a versatile defender and be able to block shots. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I would like to polish up even more on how versatile I am, on defense right now and continue to do whatever it is that my team needs me to do. Also, becoming a better on ball defender.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? Everyday I’m working on everything, I’d like to be better with everything in my game.
You played last season for BBC Bayreuth (Germany-ProA) averaging 18.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 82.7%. How tough was this season? You did all you could, but lost so many games. What did you learn personally from this season? I’ve learned a lot of lessons as far as in game situations and the season was very tough dealing with a lot of injuries from some players that was a big factor for us on the team.
You had so many great Pro A games. Was there a game that you will remember? Both of the derby games will be games I’ll forever remember. Both were great atmospheres and felt like home games.
You played your rookie season with Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions (Austria-BSL) averaging 19.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 29.7%, FT: 76.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? I think more so the way they play and certain things the coaches want you to do is like a wake up call and different languages.
How tough was that playoff series against Oberwart? The game 2 and 5 losses hurt so much. What will you always remember from that series? This is a series I’ll always remember because I feel as though we got cheated out of the second game because the ref didn’t make a call that was clear as day but I’ve learned from that and know what I’ll do next time in that situation.
You played 2 great seasons with Allegany College of Maryland (JUCO) averaging 18.2ppg, 8.1rpg, 3.2apg, 1.1spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 55.2% and 21.3ppg, 11.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.5spg, 1.8bpg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT: 72.8%. Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO has said it was a tough grind, but a grind that they wouldn’t have traded the world for? How was it for you? It was a grind for sure but for me it wasn’t too tough but everyone’s situation is different. I wouldn’t trade anything about it though at all the friends I made and the challenges I had to overcome all made me the HUMBLE BEAST I am today.
How vital was head coach Tommie Reams early in your career? How did he help you make the jump from JUCO to the NCAA 2? Him and Shane Scott really helped me develop more into a guard and seeing the floor certain reads and allowing me to play through mistakes and learn from them on the fly.
You played at Texas A&M University – Commerce (NCAA2) from 2020-2023. You were an impact player from the start to end. How did your game grow in those 3 years? I had more resources here and more gym time so it was a little better to develop my game and Willie Rooks and Trey Conrod were our GA’s there helped me with certain workouts to become even more better and polish up my game. You had 2 30 plus games within a week against UIW and McNeese State. What game was more memorable for you? I’d say the McNeese State game because one of the coaches and I are like good friends and we always would talk trash to each other so it’s nice to get wins like that when scoring a lot to get bragging rights.
How did head coach Jaret Von Rosenberg groom and prepare you best for a professional career? He helped me a lot on and off the court to become a professional and how to carry myself in certain situations.
Who won a 1-1 in practice, you or Luka Vasic? We never played 1-1 but we definitely had some times where we both went at each other in pick up.
Who is the best player that you ever battled that reached the NBA? Dalton Knecht.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Devin Bethely, Kalen Williams, Drew Buggs, Alphonso Willis, Augustine Ene.
Please name your personal NBA, Euro and German Mount Rushmore of your best 5 players of all-time? Kobe, Shaq, MJ, Lebron, KDThanks Demarcus for the chat.
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