Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheinStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.
Thanks Malik for talking to germanhoops.com. It was the battle of the best 2 Pro B south teams with the RheinStars and Leitershofen. How excited were you to go into this game? I was very excited about this game. I knew the energy and the fans would be crazy.
Cologne won the first game 85-80. What was the game plan going in? Just made stops and executed down the stretch of the game when we played the first time.
The RheinStars suffered a tough 94-92 loss against Leitershofen. How had they improved from the first game?
They had some guys play that didn’t play the first match up which helped them. But I still think we had opportunities to come out with the win
The first half was a battle and the RheinStars led by 6 points. What was key for having the half-time lead? We were making stops and rebounding pretty well. Also was executing in that first half pretty well
In the third quarter Leitershofen exploded for 31 points. What adjustments did they make to get the 4 point lead after 30 minutes?
We had too many turnovers as well as wasn’t getting back on defense fast enough in transition. Which gave them opportunities to get easy baskets.
Asa Williams exploded for 31 points including 8 three´s. What made it so difficult to contain him? We left him open too much. Most of the game he was open for a three and his teammates just made good efforts of finding him.
You had 6 seconds at the end down by 2 and you took the last three pointer and missed. Take me through the last seconds? Did the shot feel good?
Rupi came down the court as I sprinted to the corner and he hit me. The shot felt good but just slightly to the left.
You scored 24 points and shot 50%. How valuable was this game for your self-confidence? It was good for my confidence since I’ve been struggling a bit this month. But I felt I was being more aggressive than usual.
You next face Ludwigsburg who you easily beat in the first game. What will be key to getting the victory? The key will be play with a lot of intensity and energy. We just came off a tough loss so we have to come out the gate swinging.
One of the big showdowns for any club in German football or basketball or even other sports is playing FC Bayern Munich. It´s no different at the youth U-19 level. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners met Munich for the first time this season, but for one Skyliner, he hadn´t already played against many today, but had been teammates with many only a week ago. Recently universal genius Ivan Crnjac had the big honor to suit up with FC Bayern Munich during the 2025 Adidas Next Generation tournament. But on this time Crnjac was an opponent again. Frankfurt came in sporting a 8-1 record while FC Bayern Munich came in with a 5-2 record. Despite Munich´s record, they have an unbelievable strong and deep roster that will challenge all team´s the rest of the way and possibly continuing in the top 4 in May. Frankfurt isn´t too shabby either and last weekend won on the road in Ludwigsburg without their big 3 of Crnjac, Edoka and Omog. On a mild Sunday afternoon FC Bayern Munich rolled into the BCM gym and showed a strong and consistent game for 40 minutes forcing Frankfurt to play catch up basketball all afternoon long. Frankfurt was unable to get over the hump as they got a bit fatigued in the fourth quarter. FC Bayern Munich was led by the lethal guard duo of Dominik Dolic (190-SG-2006) and Ivan Volf who combined for 29 points and added big shots in the fourth quarter for the victory. ”In the end we found a way to fight through it. We gave up too many easy baskets 1-1 in the first half. We changed our game plan in the second half. We switched a lot to close the zone. We got steals and got out on transition”, stressed FC Bayern Munich guard Dominic Dollic. The Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners fought hard, but just couldn´t get over the hump. The guard duo of Dolic and Volf were simiply too much for them, “I felt like this game was at eye level of the 2 top teams in the division. They both know each other and have played together for years and know exactly what their doing. I think we were a bit tired in the fourth quarter. When Ivan Crnjac went down, everyone was shocked. Munich got too many easy rebounds and offensive rebounds. I think the load was too much on the shoulders of Edoka and Crnjac”, stressed Skyliners Juniors head coach Sepehr Tarrah.
Jamie Edoka at the FT line
In the first quarter FC Bayern Munich found to their game rapidly and took the commanding league and Frankfurt had to already get used to playing catch up basketball early. FC Bayern Munich led quickly 12-4 and showcased beautiful inside out basketball and surprisingly only 2 points were scored by the duo of Dolic and Volf as Dolic made a nifty lefthanded lay in. Desmond Yiamu scored 5 points including a trey and Greek guard Nikolas Sermpezis who averaged 20,0ppg at the recent ADNE also added 5 points as he also dropped a three pointer. Munich was playing aggressive on ball defense and also getting quickly out on transition while Frankfurt hadn´t found a rhythm. Frankfurt then finally found their rhythm as the big 3 of Crnjac, Edoka and Omog scored, but Frankfurt still trailed 20-13. Frankfurt couldn´t get consistent stops as their guard play executed and they also had problems with 213cm big man Killian Dueck who was a mismatch everytime he touched the ball. He also scored twice and was pulling down offensive rebounds at ease. Frankfurt weren´t able to spread the offensive love around as much as FC Bayern Munich as they only had Edoka who added 9 points and Crnjac 4 points. Edoka is about as unstoppable as you can get at the NBBL level. Every drive seemingly is either a lay in or he draws a foul. Down the stretch of the first quarter Jamie Edoka tested his 6,7% three point shooting and dropped one and also made free throws. Serbian Andrijia Sussic and Dolic added lay ins with their lethal speed as FC Bayern Munich led 25-18 after 10 minutes. “Frankfurt didn´t play particular good defense, They had little defensive intensity and had problems with pick and roll, close outs and rotations. Edoka did a good job getting to the rim”, stated former Skyliner Junior Drago Crnjac. FC Bayern Munich shot 53% from the field and 50% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 3 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 47% from the field and 50% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 5 turnovers.
Dominik Dolic with the drive
In the second quarter Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners fought back, but were unable to get the lead as they trailed by 1 point at half-time. Frankfurt went on a 8-3 run taking advantage of 2 Munich turnovers to cut the guests lead to 30-28. The universal genius Ivan Crnjac added 2 three pointers while big man Lukas Brendal made a lay in. Frankfurt upped their defensive intensity and were more aggressive on the glass while Munich had up and down phases in their game. Ivan Crnjac got going in the run showing lethal production as usual. “It was strange that Ivan had so much freedom. There wasn´t really anyone assigned to him. But I did notice that Dolic was put on him at the end of the second quarter”, commented Dragon Crnjac. Whenever Frankfurt threatened, Munich always had an answer. It was either the great shooing guards or Killian Dueck. This time it was Dueck scoring back to back buckets including an offensive rebound and put back where Frankfurt trailed 38-34. Frankfurt put on the pressure in the last minutes closing out the quarter with an efficient 10-5 run to trail 39-38 at the break. In the Frankfurt run, it was 17 year old Jamie Edoka who took charge as he was a one man wrecking crew scoring 8 points. He continued to attack the paint area and executed. He always found ways to score or either draw fouls. Maximillain Petters also made a lay in as Crnjac made a beautiful touch pass. Munich got some good support from the bench from Isayah Marcin who made a lay in. Frankfurt´s defense was a lot stronger in the last minutes as Crnjac and Peters both made huge blocks. “You see really how good both of them work together. Ivan told me once that Peters is his best friend on the court. They have a really good connection on the court. Both are big wings that like to shoot, but also attack the close out”, stated Drago Crnjac. FC Bayern Munich shot 38% from the field and 28% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 7 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 45% from the field and from the three point line and had 21 rebounds and 12 turnovers. “Even Frankfurt had problems with the Munich press, I think they were strong in the half court and moved the ball well”, stated Drago Crnjac.
Ivan Crnjac to the rim
In the third quarter FC Bayern Munich had their best scoring quarter as they erupted for 27 points and led by 8 points after 3 quarters. The lethal guard duo did their magic nailing back to back three´s to extend Munich´s lead to 45-38. Both love to have the ball in their hands and harmonize so well together. They have been playing together for many years and that shows on the court. “I know him since the U-12 and we have been playing together since the U-14. We have great chemistry because we are together 24/7. We know how to bring each other into rhythm”, explained Dominik Dolic. Both teams would have their mini runs with FC Bayern Munich keeping their head ahead. Omog scored 4 points in a row, but Munich punched back with a 4-0 run and Yiamu and Susic scored on drives and Frankfurt trailed 49-42. FC Bayern Munich had a good groove while that team play by Frankfurt had disappeared as too much 1-1 play was creeping out of the wood work. Frankfurt never gave up and had a positive phase going on a 12-6 run to trail only 55-54. In the run, Frankfurt continued to use their brilliant individual qualities as Ivan Crnjac made an offensive rebound and put back and also connected on another trey. Edoka also supplied another lay in while young German Ehiozogie Idemudia supplied great support from the bench hitting a three pointer. But as usual this was as close as Frankfurt would get as Munich would always slap back with a clutch three pointer by the guard duo of Dolic and Volf. This time it was Ivan Volf for the 58-54 advantage. This was the start of a 12-6 run for FC Bayern Munich as they got more support from Caspar Vossenberg with 4 points and Killian Dueck continued to be super efficient in the paint area with a lay in Frankfurt got to the free throw line, but missed way too many free throws and trailed 66-58 after 30 minutes. “We were good on the pick and roll defense and got some steals. We work on this twice a day with the pick and roll and zig zag. We want to be the best defense in Germany”, warned Dominik Dolic. “We had problems on defense. They got too many easy baskets. We couldn´t stop their transition. We dribbled the ball too much and had too little ball movement”, added Jamie Edoka. FC Bayern Munich shot 40% from the field and 36% from the parking lot and had 30 rebounds and 8 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt shot 44% from the field and 44% from the parking lot and they had 31 rebounds and 16 turnovers.
Andrijia Susic at the FT line
In the fourth quarter FC Bayern Munich closed out the game not losing their consistency. Ivan Crnjac had hurt his foot at the end of the third quarter and returned in the fourth quarter, but was no factor. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners got on the score board first in the fourth quarter as Lukas Brendal made a lay in as he was very efficient from the field going 7/8 but had his problems from the free throw line going 1/7. Frankfurt trailed 66-60, but this was as close as they would get in the game. Both teams executed well and went on mini runs as Dueck made a lay and Dolic free throws and Omog made an acrobatic lay in and lock down defender Rephael Edward also madce a lay getting the nice pass from Crnjac as Frankfurt was down 6 again. FC Bayern Munich was able to increase it´s lead again into double figures as Dolic made a trey and lay in a nd Dueck a lay in as Frankfurt trailed 78-66. In this phase Frankfurt missed free throws again as all in all they went 13/25 form the free throw line. Th game was as good as decided as the dynamic duo of Volf and Dolic added consecutive three´s for good measure as Munich led 84-70. Brendel closed out the game with back to back lay in´s as he had his best game in the NBBL with 15 points. “Crnjac gave us big problems in the first 3 quarters. I think him hurting himself hurt them a bit. I think both teams were tired. Many of us had played Pro B the night before. We got key rebounds and were calm on offense. We were also lucky at times making our three´s”, said Dominik Dolic. “We were a bit tired. Some of us also had played Regionalliga the night before. Their bigs hurt us. We were undersized and didn´t box out well. Lukas Brendel played very well despite going against mis matches the whole game”, commented Jamie Edoka. FC Bayern Munich was led by Dominik Dolic with 18 points. Killian Dueck added 15 points and Ivan Volf added 11 points as did Andrijia Susic while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners was led by Jamie Edoka with 20 points. Ivan Crnjac added 16 points while Lukas Brendel chipped in with 15 points. FC Bayern Munich shot 41% from the field and 38% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 13 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 43% from the field and 33% from outside and had 41 rebounds and 21 turnovers.
One of the basketball highlights in the youth sector every year is the Euroleague Basketball Next Generation tournament that is held every year in January. It is contested between the best basketball clubs in Europe in the under 18 age group. The first ANGE was held in 2003 and in the last 5 years Real Madrid has dominated the tournament winning 4 out of 5 tournaments. Over the years ANGT has seen big upcoming talents that became big time players like Luka Donic, Dario Saric and Dejan Musli while the last 2 MVP´s were Jan Vide and Hugo Gonzalez. This years tournament saw an array of great players again including German Ivan Crnjac who plays for the Frankfurt Skyliners. He had the special honor to suit up with FC Bayern Munich. He was one of the older kids on the team as there were many very talented players from the years 2008-2009 In the end, FC Bayern Munich couldn´t win the title, but reached a very satisfying 5th place and gained added valuable experience playing against the best young players in Europe. Ivan Crnjac was in Munich for a week training with FC Bayern Munich and then played 4 games last weekend. It was an exciting time, but also stressful at times. “It was ok. The days were slow and fast depending on how much training we had. The first day was long. We had 2 games and we had to get up at 6.15 AM”, stressed Ivan Crnjac (203-F-2007)
Usually the teams only have the players from that team, but every once in a while, teams will add talented guys from other teams so they will get a chance to compete since their normal team wasn´t invited. In the case of Ivan Crnjac, it was strange in a way to be training with FC Bayern Munich, but in a way also familiar. “It was strange having other teammates, but I mean I knew many of the guys already. It was strange practicing in a different training facility, but I got used to it”, stated Ivan Crnjac So how did a day look for him leading up to the weekend where he would play 4 games? “It wasn´t always that exciting. I woke up at 9.00Am and had breakfast. I usually relaxed then or went for a walk. In the afternoon we had practice starting with work in the weight room. Then I went back to the hotel and slept. There were no wild times. The Munich players all had school”, said Ivan Crnjac Was the team able to generate chemistry in such a short period of time? “I felt we did do that. But you did notice that the team was young and inexperienced. You saw it at times in games. An older point guard would react differently”, commented Ivan Crnjac Was he able to see any of the easyCredit BBL players like rising young star Ivan Khartchenkov who is getting good minutes with the BBL team? Is a guy like Khartcehnkov a role model for him? “I watched a BBL practice and saw all the players. I also saw Gordie Herbert walking around. I saw Ivan but didn´t talk to him. I wouldn´t necessarily say he is a role model for me, but he is definitely a player where I would strive to have a career like him”, expressed Ivan Crnjac
FC Bayern Munich lost the first game to Cedivita 98-78 as Ivan Crnjac had 10 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists. “That was a tough first loss. It was early in the morning and we didn´t play well as a team. They hit their shots well. It was a weak game and not the type of game that you want to start a tournament with”, said Ivan Crnjac FC Bayern Munich finally got on the winning track beating Aris 74-54. Ivan Crnjac produced 9 points, 4 rebounds and 1 assist. “This was our second game of the day and it was at night. We were mad after losing the first game. We put more emotion into the game. We were able to play our game. We defended harder and our offense was better”, added Ivan Crnjac They then fell to 1-2 as they lost to Valencia 103-82. “You wouldn´t think so from the result, but it was a tight game. The game was tied after 3 quarters. It was a real competitive game. We got tired in the fourth quarter”, stated Ivan Crnjac In the loss he filled the stat sheet well scoring 9 points, grabbed 10 boards, dished out 3 assists, blocked 2 shots and got a steal. FC Bayern Munich buckled down in the 4th game beating Derby 77-64. He had 7 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals and a block. “We gave all we had because we wanted to end the tournament with a win. We struggled at the start, but played a lot better in the second half”, added Ivan Crnjac He was really impressed by 15 year olds Marko Volf (7/2/2) and Caspar Vossenberg (12/3) who held their own and were important players for the team. “Both are very talented. Volf has great skills and physical while Vossenberg is very strong and athletic. They both played great”, warned Ivan Crnjac Did the many practices and games take a toll on their energy as a team which led to poor team shooting percentages? “The practices were hard, but not so much that we were tired going into the games. All 4 games were played at a high intense level. I think our fatigue came from the games”, said Ivan Crnjac
The young German who lists Declan Duru as his toughest cover so far in his career has developed very well the last years and has taken the next step this season averaging 20,7ppg, 7,5rpg, 2,0apg, and 2,0spg in the NBBL (U-19) and in the Pro B averaging 11,4ppg, 4,4rpg, 1,8apg and 1,1spg. With what kind of a focus did he come to Munich and ANGT? “I wasn´t assigned a role coming in, but developed a defensive role as the tournament went on. I always had to defend the other team´s best player”, stressed Ivan Crnjac Nikolas Sermpezis was the captain, but Crnjac was one of the older guys on the team. Did he feel like one of the leaders? “I felt that a little bit. I supported him and once in a while was vocal”, said Ivan Crnjac His stat line during ANGE in 4 games was 8,8ppg, 6,0rpg, 2,5apg and 1,3spg in 28,5 minutes. Was he content with his game against the best of Europe? “I think that my game was solid. I feel like I did everything except score. I wasn´t as focused on scoring. I really did all that I wanted to, but wish that I could of scored more”, stressed Ivan Crnjac He also noticed rapidly what he has to better in the future in order to reach the next level. He had 9 turnovers in the last 2 games. “I have to work more on my ball handling. Coach actually wanted me to play more at the guard position, but in the end I was playing the 3-5 positions. I really had problems with ball handling. I have to improve that”, warned Ivan Crnjac He had many great moments, but one that he won´t forget. “Our second win in the fourth game was my fondest moment. We finished fifth. It was a cool moment and the mood was better”, expressed Ivan Crnjac The 17 year old 3 level scorer and universal genius doesn´t have long to reflect on the enriching weekend, but was back on the court a few days later. Then he faced another team BBA Porsche Ludwigsburg in Pro B action that was full of young talents. He faced off against talented Julis Baumer who has BBL experience. Crnjac made another jump scoring a pro high for him with 29 points in a massive win. The grind never ends for the universal genius Ivan Crnjac
Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheinStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.
Congrats on the big 95-80 win over the Frankfurt Skyliners. How big was this win after the poor loss last weekend in Oberaching? It was a great bounce back game after the loss. We got to playing the way we want to play.
The RheinStars exploded in the first quarter with 35 points and allowed only 14 points. Was that some of the best offense the team has played this season in one quarter? A lot of the offense was generated from our defense. We got stops and were able to get out and run to get easy transition baskets.
The RheinStars had the comfortable 54-32 lead at the break. How key was the work on the offensive glass for being able to have the comfortable lead? The rebounds were key. As a team we haven’t been doing a great job of that lately but we picked it up this game.
You had a solid 11/5/3/3 game. The stat line looks good, but you shot only 5/19. What is your summary of your shooting performance in that game? Did you not get as well to your spots?
Yeah I did struggle this game with shooting. Mostly probably because I had a minor injury and was trying to get my rhythm back. But not going to hold my head down about it. I had some good looks just didn’t fall.
You next play against Leitershofen who you beat 85-80 at home. The game on the road will be tougher. What will be key to getting win?
Yes this will be a tough game. I think the key thing is who wants it more. Who is willing to play the hardest and execute the best. Trying not to get out played will be the key.
Timo Lanmueller (193-SG-2001) is a 23 year old Austrian-German 193cm shooting guard that is playing his first season with the Fraport Skyliners. He began his basketball career in the ratiopharm Ulm system playing in their youth program as well as for Pro B farm team Orange Academy. He was able to play 2 easyCredit BBL games. He then moved to the Tigers Tuebingen where he played parts of 4 seasons playing 100 pro A games and last season played 30 BBL games averaging 2.7ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.4apg. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 77-70 win in Bonn.
Thanks Timo for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the massive 77-70 win. How big was this win in comparison to other wins this season?
This was an important win. The situation is to remain in the league. This win was huge because we were missing key players with Theodore, Calvin and Cooplin. In other big wins we had bigger rotations, but not against Bonn. We had that next man mentality as other guys stepped up. Garai Zeeb played a great game. He moved the ball well. We fought together and rebounded the ball well. I´m really happy with the win.
Was it tough coming into the game after only a few hours hearing that Booker Coplin couldn´t play?
We had found about it 1-2 days before. It affected us. We as a team have so much respect for Booker. He is part of us. He has a great character and is a true Skyliner. It was a shock when we found out, but we passed the character test and won as a collective.
Did you sense that the Telekom Baskets Bonn were a bit rattled after the tough Basketball Champions League loss to Reggio Emilia?
That is hard to say. I don´t know what their mind set was. We gave 100%. We knew that we were the underdog. It isn´t always easy for the favorite which was Bonn to play a team like us that are battling to stay in the league. Everyone expected Bonn to dominate. We had no pressure.
Frankfurt had the 22-16 advantage after 10 minutes. Did the start surprise you a bit considering the news of Booker Coplin´s not being able to play and the other guys not being able to play?
We had a quick lead at the start. We hit our shots and played good defense which gave us extra confidence. We understood that we had a chance to win.
Do you feel like the quick 10-2 start by Frankfurt took a toll on the team mentally and just having to always come back right form the get go? Yes I think so.
Darius McGhee has been great most of the season. He gave early support and without him, Bonn would have been trailing by double digits. How special of a player is he?
His qualities as a player are great. He is a scorer that has unlimited range. He can score from anywhere. You have to be on him as soon as he crosses center court. I made a few mistakes on him in the game. He also made a contested shot on me. He is just really hard to stop. All you can do is just make it as difficult as possible. You just hope he has bad shooting percentages.
Bonn didn´t come out into the third quarter with the same intensity as the second quarter. Frankfurt began with a 8-0 run and led 66-56 after 3 quarters. What was key in the third quarter for Frankfurt to pull away?
Our defense and rebounding was key. We kept them to like 27 points in the second half. We did a good job on the defensive end. When you get consistent stops, it makes it a lot easier for the offense.
In the fourth quarter the Telekom Baskets Bonn were like reborn. They held Frankfurt scoreless for 7 minutes and 7 seconds and tied the game at 68-68. Was Frankfurt too relaxed? What was key for Bonn coming back into the game? Our offense wasn´t executing our plays as well anymore. Bonn shifted up a gear and we couldn´t deal with their aggressive play. We made some turnovers. They are a good enough team to play like this. We just have to be ready for it.
Frankfurt closed the game strong with a 9-2 run. Did Bonn run out of gas?
Maybe a bit. They had had a tough BCL series against Reggio Emilia. But we were fortunate that Malik Parsons took over. David Muenkat also hit a tough three pointer from the corner. I think that we wanted it more at the end. We had that underdog mentality.
Malik Parsons scored 6 of Frankfurt´s last 9 points. He is a walking bucket. Is it almost a given when he has the ball you just let him have the ball and watch him produce?
You always want the ball in his hands. He has such great qualities to score the ball. The game plan of Bonn was to double team him whenever possible. When that happens, you have to find ways around it. He did a good job doing that.
When he is on he is unstoppable. What was his mood coming in? Was he extra focused? He is more of a quiet guy. But you could see coming in that he was extra focused. When he has a bad game like against Alba Berlin, he takes it personal. He always wants to be a leader.
When you look back at the 40 minutes, what was the Frankfurt Skyliners biggest strength? The togetherness of the team and our defense.
Kamaka Hepa has been playing better as of late. Has he finally found his groove? I hope so. He has practiced really hard the last weeks. He was injured for a long time. I hope he found his groove and he can keep helping us.
Patrick Heckman is a force off the bench. What do you appreciate most about his game?
He is a veteran. He is a very good role model. He keeps us together. He is always solid, making the right decisions and not making mistakes. He doesn´t force anything and stays calm. He likes the extra pass and gives us that important veteran leadership.
The Frankfurt Skyliners now have 20 days off. Will it be more an advantage or disadvantage for the further development of the team? That is hard to say. I hope that our injured players get healthy again. A few days is always good which gives everyone a chance to relax. Of course when you don´t play a game for 2-3 weeks, you can get out of rhythm, but that is no excuse not to give 100% against BG Goettingen.
You played your 11th game playing 7 minutes and having 3/1/1 stats. How tough is it being as efficient as possible? It isn´t easy when you have a small role. I always try to give my all in a game or practice to help my team as best as I can. I try to hit my shots and play good defense and give my part to the success. I always try to help my team and not think about how much I can score.
What do you try to do better in practice that you can get more minutes?
My strength is to hit three´s and play good defense. I´m always working on having a consistent shot. I had some good and bad defensive games. My goal is to get minutes and for that to happen, I have to play better defense. I have to keep my guy in front of me. I want to become a good defender.
Who will win the Super Bowl? I think that the Kansas City Chiefs will win. I´m not a fan of them, but they dominate.
Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheinStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.
The RheinStars Cologne lost a tough 89-85 game on the road in Oberaching. You had beaten them with 4 less than a month ago. Did you feel like their revenge factor was high? Yeah I felt like they was more aggressive than we were as a team and they seemed like they wanted the win more than us.
You only played 56 seconds. Did you get hurt? Yes got hurt blocking a shot sadly.
The RheinStars had the slim 43-40 lead at half-time. What was key for having the slim lead? We were doing pretty solid job with playing fast as well as turning them over in first half.
In the fourth quarter Oberaching came back scoring 22 points led by Omari Knox and get the lead. What adjustments did they make?
Knox was making his shots. Some of our mistakes on defense gave him an opportunity to have some good looks, and for a shooter that’s all you need
Did the quick start by Oberaching in the fourth quarter and 2 three´s by Knox and Koegler seal the win? The RheinStars couldn´t get over the hump despite fighting back. That hurt but we still had chances to take control of the game of opportunities to come out with a win, but I still think we made some careless mistakes by us.
How talented is Oberaching? Could they give teams problems in the playoffs? They are very aggressive team so I could see them giving teams problems.
Davi Remagen had his break out game with 26 points and 7 assists after having a 40 plus points NBBL game a week ago. How talented is this 17 year old? Davi is very talented and has a lot of skill and potential. Yesterday I could tell he was in a different attack mode and was playing great.
The next game is against Ludwigsburg who you disposed of by 25 points at home. What will be key to the win? We have to come together as a team and not take any team for granted. We have to come out and be the aggressors and get back to playing our game how we did in beginning of the season.
Tyreese Blunt (191-PG-2002) is a 22 year old 192cm guard playing his first season with the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. Last season he played mainly for the Dragons Rhondorf averaging 15.9ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 63.9%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 70.1% and also played 8 easyCredit BBL games for the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He played 2 seasons in the Bamberg organization and also played 44 games for farm team BBC Coburg. He began his career with the MHP Risen Ludwigsburg and played 1 BBL game there. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball and his ex teammate Ariel Hukporti who was drafted by the New York Knicks.
Thanks Tyreese for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with the Hakro Merlins. If the Dragons Rhondorf would have played Pro A do you feel like you may have remained? It could have been possible, but you never know, I may have gotten other job opportunities as well.
Moving from the pro B to the Pro A was a logical choice. Was working with David Mccray a big reason why you signed there?
I think that my path would have brought me to the pro A sooner or later after 2 strong Pro B seasons. Being able to play for my ex coach David Mccray made my decision a lot easier. He is a super guy.
You already played for David Mccray in Ludwigsburg. What do you appreciate most about his coaching style? I appreciate his work ethic most. He is always working and we train together every night. His work ethic gives me a reason to always give my best in practice or games. His work ethic boosts me to give my all.
You played the last 3 years in Bamberg and Rhondorf. How did you observe his coaching from afar? What are you expecting from him as a coach now 3 years later? I will expect the same as before. I am expecting that he helps me become better and help me make the next steps. I also want to have a successful season with him on the court with the team.
How excited are you to play Pro A. How confident are you that you can become an impact player at that level?
I´m not that excited. Those days are over. I´m really looking forward to this season and believe that I can play a big role if I find my way quickly.
You were teammates with Ariel Hukporti in Ludwigsburg. If you could say one word describing him what would it be? One word is easy. Hustler.
How proud were you that he was the last player picked in the 2024 draft by the Dallas Mavericks? It wasn´t self-evident that he would get picked as he was seen as a possible late second round pick. I´m so proud of him. He went through so much already at a young age. Moving away from his mother wasn´t easy, but he fought through all adversary. He went through injuries, but always worked hard to achieve his goals
Describe the feeling when you heard his name?
I was so happy. At first I was speechless. I couldn´t realize it at first. I remember him calling me after he got picked and he couldn´t tell me that he was getting traded to New York.
Do you feel like he can crack the NBA rotation in 24-25? Yes I think he can. It will be tough, but if he gets an opportunity, he will make it.
Everyone talks about his incredible defense and rebounding. What is off the radar with his game? His athleticism is still a bit off the radar. Usually bigs aren´t so athletic, but he can really jump and is quick.
What is your fondest moment with him on the court? It was always fun to play with him in every game. I can´t pick one thing.
He seems to have a massive heart for the people in his inner circle. What is your fondest moment with him? We have gone through so much and are best friends. It is always a blessing to come together each summer and see each other again. I enjoy my time with him to the fullest. Every time we see each other, it is like we saw each other yesterday.
You big is still that bond from the Ludwigsburg days? Hukporti and Dejan Bruce are like brothers to you. How strong is this bond today? It is big. Now in the summer we see each other a lot. During the summer we try to talk to each other every day. We always have a great time together. I value our time together highly.
What would you like to see Ariel Hukporti achieve in his first season in the NBA? I honestly believe if he gets a chance, then he could get a big role. He wouldn´t be a main guy like Jalen Brunson, but have a good role.
Juan Fernandez (193-G-1990, college: Temple) is a 34 year old 193cm guard from Argentina, but also has the Italian citizenship playing his 10th professional season and first with Umana Reyer Venezia (Italy-Serie A). He has played most of his pro career in Italy, but also played in Spain and Argentina. He played at Temple University (NCAA) from 2008-2012 reaching the NCAA tournament each season. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against the Hamburg Towers.
Thanks Juan for talking to germanhoops.com. Before we begin with your career, I have to tell you that we have a few connections however one wants to label it. I have been in Argentina 17 times in my life dating from 1983-2007. Unfortunately I haven´t been there in a while. Most of my visits were in 90´s. Have you ever met a person that has been there as much as I have? That’s great. Argentina is a beautiful country; I hope you’re able to make it back there soon.
My first longer stay was 1986 when I witnessed Argentina beat Germany in the world cup in a living room in Argentina filled with about 30 enthuastic Argentines. I had to keep quiet and watch how much I cheered for Germany. Lol. Anyway 2 guys from that visit I´m still friends with today as well as some others that I met in the 90´s. I have got to know the Argentine people as very friendly and loyal no matter how bad the conditions may be. What do you think makes Argentine people in general this way?
Argentinians are super passionate and proud people. I think, as South Americans, we’ve had to become really resilient over time, dealing with a lot of challenges as a country. That resilience has taught us that we’re stronger when we come together. Socializing is just part of who we are; we don’t overthink it. You can organize an asado for 30 people in five minutes, no problem. Our tradition of drinking ‘mate’ is another great example. Mate isn’t just a drink; it’s a way to connect and share time with others. I think our history, with all its ups and downs, mixed with the influence of our European roots, especially Spain and Italy, has made us passionate, resilient, empathetic, and really good at sticking together when it counts. That combination is what makes Argentinians who we are.
I actually got to know normal people in a small town about 500 kilometers west of Buenos Aires in my first visit to the town in 86. But my family actually had connections to Argentina with a very well known family. I will never forget many incredible times with them especially their sons who were always so nice to me despite me being 10+ years older. The family I´m talking about are the Roemmers. The names Maradona and Messi are household names, but how well respected is this name in Argentina?
In Argentina, many respected names and people have done great things for the country, and there is no doubt about that. However, soccer is like our religion. If you can make Argentinians proud and represent them well inside a soccer field, you will win their hearts. That’s what Messi and Maradona have managed to do.
My other connection is TJ DiLeo. I covered him for many years in Germany. You were teammates with him at Temple. How was your relationship with him then and did a friendship remain in the last 15 years?
I have a great relationship with TJ and his family. They were among the few people who took me in during a difficult transition, my first time leaving the comfort of my home in Argentina to chase my college dream in the United States. Our paths with TJ also crossed in Europe. He was a great teammate and an even better friend. Our relationship continues to this day. These relationships are what I cherish the most about my career, even more than any trophy or individual accolade.
You were born in Argentina, but also have the Italian citizenship. How is it for you personally to have been born in Argentina and be teammates with so many Italians each season. Do they see you as an Italian or more as an Argentine? Because Argentinian and Italian cultures share many similarities, it has been really easy for me to adapt and blend in with my Italian teammates. I believe they consider me more Italian than foreign, although they never forget I’m Argentinian; I wear that label proudly. It’s nice to feel so welcomed in this country; I’ve made many friends and met wonderful people. Both of my kids were born in this country. My wife and I also got married here. Italy definitely feels like home for my family and me.
You have been a professional player since 2012 and have played most of your career in Italy. Was the love for Italy so big that you never played anywhere else besides Spain and Argentina?
I’ve always made career decisions in line with what I thought was also best for my family. Because we love living in Italy, we always decided to stay when I had the option. What led me to pursue a year in Spain were some challenges experienced in Italy during the off-season, which made me feel like it was time for a change of direction and look for new stimuli. I honestly never saw myself playing anywhere else other than these two countries.
Your playing your first season with Umana Reyer Venezia (Italy-Serie A). You have played in some very pretty places in Italy, but now Venice is home. You couldn´t be living in a more beautiful place. What do you enjoy most about that city? Venice is unique for obvious reasons. Having played in Italy for many years, we had visited this city in the past, although we never lived nearby. Getting to experience it as a local and exploring it more often is something we’re extremely grateful for. People spend a lot of energy, money, and time to travel here and visit Venice. We’re very fortunate to live in such a beautiful place.
This is only the second time that you have played international club basketball in the Eurocup. You played once very early in your career. How has this competition helped your game grow? You see great competition in Serie A, but it must be a big plus to be able to play here.
The Eurocup is a great competition. Any chance you get to play at a European level is a great opportunity for a player to keep growing and challenge yourself against high-level competition. Although the schedule and the traveling sometimes make the season a little more demanding, I’m grateful for the opportunity to get to know many beautiful places and play at some of the nicest arenas in Europe. It’s great for us to challenge ourselves as a team and keep growing as well.
How tough is it getting minutes this season. There are many ex NBA players at the guard position with Mcgruder, Munford and Ennis. Is every practice for you like a game 7 simply because your fighting to get minutes in the next game.
I knew my role very clearly coming into the team this season. After over two years away from professional sports, I also had clear goals and objectives for myself. I wanted to enjoy my experience playing basketball again, prove to myself that I could get back to playing at a high level, and help the team wherever my help would be needed, either on or off the court at any given time. My personal journey, at this time, goes way beyond how many minutes I play.
You only averaged in double figures once as a professional, but usually around 8-9 points per game. Was that “role” player a job that you grew into well as a professional or was it tougher?
I don’t consider scoring the most important part of the game or something that defines whether you’re a starter or a ‘role’ player. I’ve always tried to put the team first and help where I saw help was needed. There have been teams where I was asked to take more of an offensive role and teams where my job was to facilitate for others as a point guard. I regard intelligence, selflessness, and adaptability as some of the most important attributes any basketball player could have.
You played 5 seasons with :Pallacanestro Alma Trieste and helped the club move up to Serie A in your first season. What do you remember being extra special about that winning team?
Trieste holds a very special place in my heart. The bond my family and I created with this city, the club, and its people is truly something special. I always say that the team we won that championship with was one of the best teams I’ve ever played for, not for its talent on the court but for the relationships we managed to build outside of it. I still stay in touch with every player on that team and even the coaching staff. I believe that was the key to our success that year.
You were teammates with Javonte Green. 2 years later he reached the NBA and has been there since. Would you have thought back in 2017 that he could reach the NBA so quickly via Europe and stay there? I wouldn’t say I knew he would reach the NBA so quickly because something like that depends on so many variables beyond what any player can control. I definitely knew he had the potential, however, to make it to the NBA. Javo was one of the best players and teammates I’ve ever shared a team with, and I’m so happy to see him shine in one of the best leagues in the world.
You were teammates with American Ricky Hickman. He had won the Euroleague. What memories do you have of him? How vital was it having a veteran like that on the team?
We didn’t share much time on the court with Ricky because he got there after our season had started, and then that year, the season stopped because of COVID-19. It was good to share the team with someone like him, and his experience helped us during a difficult time as a team.
You played 5 seasons with Italian veteran Daniele Cavaliero and then he retired. How vital was his leadership and overall having him as a teammate? Could a guy like you soak anything up from his words of wisdom? Dani is one of my very good friends to this day and one of the best teammates I’ve ever had. I’m grateful to have shared a team with him for so many years, and our time together definitely helped me mature as a player and as a person. We also share similar interests outside of basketball, so our conversations would go beyond just sports. He was also the first teammate I ever opened up to about my struggles right before retiring from basketball in 2022. His support and guidance during that difficult personal time is something I will be forever thankful for.
You played a season with Cafes Candelas Breogan Lugo (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 9.0ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 87.8%. What kind of an experience was Spain? What did you enjoy most about the season?
The transition was challenging for me. The club was great, and its people really welcomed me and my family with open arms. However, as I said before, I was coming off of a challenging post-season experience in Italy, and in some ways, it was difficult for me to leave that behind. I didn’t have the maturity and mental strength needed to fully overcome a moment like that back then, and I believe I paid for that during the season in Spain. The human and social side of the experience was amazing. We loved living in Lugo and experiencing their culture. On the basketball side, although I wouldn’t categorize it as a bad season for me, I definitely would have liked to play better and help the team more than I did.
You played 3 seasons with Centrale del Latte Brescia (Italy-Serie A2) helping win the Serie 2 title in 2016. What do you remember being so special about that team?
I always say that there are two places in Italy my family and I will never forget, and those are the two cities where my kids were born. My daughter was born in Brescia, and my son in Trieste. Brescia was also where my wife and I got married, so the place holds great significance for us. To add to that, it was my first championship as a professional, so that’s something I’ll never forget. I also still stay in touch with many of my former teammates from that team. Brescia was a great place to live in; I’m also very grateful for our experiences there.
You also played briefly with Banco di Sardegna Sassari (Italy-Serie A). They had some great veterans on that team like the Diener brothers, and Drew Gordon. What memories do you have of Drew Gordon who died a few years ago? I actually didn’t get to play with Drew Gordon on that team. I left the team in January and he got there after that. People have told me great things about him, however, and we were all very sad to hear about his passing. May he rest in peace. I did build good relationships with many of my teammates that season, including Travis and Drake Diener. In fact, I’m now sharing the team with Amadeo Tessitori again, who was also part of that team in Sassari. It’s great to reconnect with former teammates after so long.
You played at temple University (NCAA) from 2008-2012 reaching the NCAA tournament each season. Not many guys can say they did it every season. Was your time at temple one of the best basketball years of your life? Without a doubt, my time at Temple was one of the best and most transformative periods of my life. The college experience in the States is truly unique, and I’m very grateful that all of the teams I played for those years experienced such success on the court, something not easy to accomplish. Going to Temple was the true start to my journey of chasing the dream of becoming a professional basketball player, and it helped me create the foundations as a person that would guide the rest of my life. Although the college basketball world has drastically changed since then with the NIL, I still recommend any young player who has the opportunity to go to college in America to live the experience and get their degree while still growing and developing as an athlete in one of the best places in the world to do so.
In your freshman season you played Arizona (NCAA) at March madness playing 6 minutes. Do you remember being on the floor with James Harden? Would you ever have thought then that he could become one of the best NBA players in the last decade? I didn’t play much of that game, so I got to watch most of it from the bench. You could tell Harden would be good, although I don’t think I imagined then that he would become the superstar he is. Although I’m not a huge fan of his game, there’s no denying he’s one of the most talented and skilled players in the NBA. I’m fortunate to have faced such level of competition in college.
Was you’re your winning shot over Penn State (NCAA) at March Madness your most fondest moment at Temple? How cool was getting to take the last shot? Your teammate Khalif Wyatt helped a bit persuading coach to draw it up.
That moment was definitely the highlight of my college basketball career. Of course, getting my degree was a huge milestone too, but that was off the court. What made this moment so special for me was knowing how much it meant to Coach Dunphy and the whole team, especially after being eliminated in the first round of the NCAA tournament two seasons in a row. The fact that my teammates trusted me to handle the ball and make the decision in such a big moment meant everything to me.Sure, it was amazing that the result went in our favor, but honestly, what mattered most was having their trust in such a critical situation. That feeling of being relied on by your team is way more meaningful to me as a player than making the shot.
How did Fran Dunphy groom and prepare you best for a professional career? The main thing that Coach Dunphy did for me was to take me outside of my comfort zone. There were many tough moments together, and although I didn’t fully understand it then, I now see that he was helping me and my teammates build mental strength and develop our character. He taught me to be a leader and put the team first. “It’s never about you,” he would always say, and that’s a lesson I’ve always carried with me. We have a great relationship to this day, and I’m grateful to call him a mentor and a friend, not just a coach.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or TJ DiLeo? TJ had the athleticism and defensive skills I never had. When it came to the offensive end, I’d say I could hold my ground. In some ways, we complemented each other on the court. It was fun sharing a team with him because we also got along very well off the court, which translated to the game during the times we played together. We understood each other.
Who was the greatest player that you battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Kawhi Leonard. After that buzzer-beater game against Penn State, we played San Diego State during the second round of the tournament. You could tell Kawhi was going to be a great player then.
Please name your 5 best teammates of alltime? Let me guess TJ DiLeo is on that list. TJ DiLeo, Daniele Cavaliero, Andrea Coronica, Marcos Delia, Salva Arco.
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili.
Who is your GOAT? As a former pro player and as a person, my father.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I did not see the sequel, sorry.
Jeff Garrett (201-F-1994, college: LSUS, agency: Players Group) is a 30 year old 201cm forward playing his 6th professional season and second with the Niners Chemnitz (BBL). He also has vast experience overseas having played in Lithuania, Ukraine, Finland and Luxemburg. He began his basketball career at Oldsmar Christian high school in Florida. He then played 2 NCAA seasons with Northern Kentucky University (NCAA) and in his last season played with : Louisiana State University at Shreveport (NAIA) averaging 18.8ppg, 14.1rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6bpg, 2.0spg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 75.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 85-66 win over the Frankfurt Skyliners.
Congrats on the big 85-66 win. With what kind of focus was the Niners coming into the game? It must have been big? To keep the winning streak alive and have self-confidence going into the tough Basketball Champions league game. The focus was huge going in. We had been struggling as of late with highs and lows. But in the last few games, I feel like we put that aside and come together and played well. Coach Pastore also has been important doing all he can to help us get better. It has been less talking and more walking. We have been more aggressive and have put it all together.
What kind of an impression did the team have of the Frankfurt Skyliners before the game? They beat Ulm recently and played FC Bayern Munich tough.
They are a pretty good team. We had a big awareness of their guard play of Theodore, Parsons and Calvin. They are an overall good shooting team.
The team now has a 2 game BBL winning streak. Before that you had suffered a 5 losing streak. Was the losing streak as bad as it seemed? Besides the bad loss against Bonn, you took Ludwigsburg and Bamberg to the wire.
Yes no doubt. We know that we are a good team. We had had a winning streak already this season. We just had a time where we weren´t figuring it out as a team.
What did the Niners learn from the gruesome loss against the Telekom Baskets Bonn where you allowed 123 points? That on any given night, this can happen in this league. It was a terrible performance and really hurt our pride. That loss really hit this organization. That can never happen again.
With what kind of game plan did the team go into the game? You had the comfortable 22-13 lead after 10 minutes?
We have to keep our foot on the gas pedal and not get lax. We can´t fall on our heels. We did a good job applying the pressure. They didn´t like our physicality.
The Niners went on a little run at the end of the first quarter hitting three´s, getting drives and going to the free throw line. What adjustments did the Niners make half way through the first quarter? Keep our foot on the gas pedal and realize what got us there. We moved the ball well, got in the paint and limit their second chances.
How key were the 2 three´s by Uguak and yourself in the first 85 seconds of the second quarter. Did that Paralize the Skyliners? Yes no doubt. Our atmosphere is great in the arena. We were ready and made the punch. It was the deal breaker and we capitalized on it.
Jordan Theodore had 9 points in the second quarter. Without his production, the Niners would have been up 25-30 points How much of a focus was he for the team? We are all competitors at the end of the day, we all knew how good he was. He has a lot of experience and we didn´t take him lightly.
What was your impression of Jordan Theodore? 10 years ago he led Frankfurt to the Fiba Europe Cup. He still looks really good for 35. He is a good player. He tough at 35. He looked good. I didn´t know he was that old. He is a bit older than me.
The Niners did a great job keeping Malik Parsons to 4 points in the first half. How difficult is it to keep him in front of you? What is his toughest attribute? His athleticism, quickness or shiftiness?
His shiftiness and quickness is toughest to contain. I hate guarding those types of players. He is a complete player. You can´t sag off him. He can do it all.
You led Frankfurt 48-27 at the break. In the third quarter the Niners kept up the pressure. What did Rodrigo Pastore tell the team to do in the third quarter? He told us to keep execute and finish the play. We allowed as good as no second chance points after the first quarter except for the end where we put in some of the young guys. We did a good job not letting them creep back and just play our game.
The Niners led as much as by 26 points. So many guys stepped up. How good is the team chemistry at his juncture of the season? Our team chemistry has grown to be beautiful. No matter what happens and through all adversary that we have seen, we have continued to stay on the same page. When it gets rocky, you see our true character.
Frankfurt began with a 8-0 run in the fourth quarter. Was that big lead in your heads a bit too much in the first minutes? It´s basketball. It´s a game of run. We still did a good job countering and finishing the game well.
How proud are you of the team that you finished strong after the Skyliners run?
As one of the leaders on the team, I´m really proud of the team. We held our heads up high.
The Niners had 5 guys score in double figures. It shot 48% from outside and had 21 assists. What was the team´s biggest strength on this night?
We moved the ball very well. We have good guard play. When we understand what coach wants, we can add the sauce. We as a team can do special things.
The defense hasn´t always been solid, but against Frankfurt was sharp again. You were only the third team to keep Malik Parsons under 10 points. What was the team´s biggest strength on defense? I think that when we stay solid and not gamble and finish the play and secure the rebound, then we are very tough. That is a big difference maker.
You next play an exciting series against Turkish team Manisa in the Basketball Champions League. What will be key to get series win? It´s very simple. We see it as a new season. We haven´t done so well in the BCL and this just another opportunity for us to advance and show everyone that we are a better team than in the past.
Do you have any News Years resolutions for 2025?
I don´t. For me every day is a new opportunity to get better. I don´t need to take another year.
Eddie Hunt (201-C-1996, college: Limestone) is a 28 year old 201cm forward that was born in Topeka, Kansas that is currently playing with Krivbas Kryvyi Rih (Ukraine-Superleague). He began his basketball career at Highland Park High School. He then played two seasons at Barton County Community College (JUCO) playing a total of 57 games. He then finished at Limestone College (NCAA2). He has gained professional experience in Mexico, Argentina, Italy, Estonia, Portugal and Georgia. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Tha Eddie for talking to germanhoops.com. The last time we spoke was in the summer of 2022. Has time flown by since then? The pleasure is all mine Miles and thanks for your time of course. Man does time fly! Seems like a few days ago.
After we spoke you played the 2022-2023 season with Alianca Sangalhos (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging 10.6ppg, 6.1rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 47.1%, FT: 66.7%, in Jan.’23 moved to Gtuni (Georgia-A League) averaging 7.8ppg, Reb-2 (7.2rpg), 1.2apg, FGP: 42.3%, FT: 66.7%. Despite only playing 7 games in Portugal, would you say that that was your break out season?
Correct I started the 2022/23 season with Sangalhos competing against Champions Level competition. My personal goals weren’t fulfilled but doesn’t take away from the fact I played well, played consistent in the time I got the chance to suit up. So I would humbly agree that it was a break out season even though I have so much more to give.
You didn´t win a game in Portugal. Was that a reason why you went to Georgia?
Once I was released from Portugal I decided to at least find a place to stay in shape and compete, and not take the rest of the season off. My short time in Georgia I met a lot of great people.
You sent a message right in your first game scoring 19 points. How important was that game at that stand point in your career? It must have been a big confidence booster.
It definitely was a favorite of mine going against FC Porto. It wasn’t going to be easy at all but to all the hoopers around the world when you get into that “mode” nothing can stop you and just having fun while doing so. The basketball rim seemed like an ocean for me that night. Looking forward to having many more games like that game. I came into the season playing well. During the preseason games I was averaging around 17ppg 7rpg. I had a big summer in Cleveland with my trainers that prepared me leading up to a breakout season in Portugal-Liga Betclic.
You then went to Georgia. What kind of an experience was that? You were the second best rebounder in the league. How tough was it not only remembering who was who from the Georgian players, but how to pronounce their names? Did you find nicknames for them? Hahah lucky all the guys spoke great English, and had semi English names just the last names were nearly impossible for me to pronounce. Nicknames saved me the confusion at first but once you spend enough time just learn to remember.
Last season you returned back to Portugal playing with Ginasio Olhanense (Portugal-Proliga) averaging 10.4ppg, 8.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 65.0%. Did Portugal become like a second home to you? Portugal holds a special place in my heart. I love the country the people, the level of play list goes on. I don’t think people would be surprised if I was to play some time in Portugal again in the future.
How tough was this season? Again you lost many games, but this time many in crunch-time. What did you learn about yourself that season? This season was more of a mental focus having things done a certain way in the champions league and making the transition to the 2nd league was a little more having to figure out as I went along and adjusting a lot. I spent a short time there due to an injury called “gophers elbow” and it was a nagging no injury in my shooting arms so it was impossible for me to perform so I sat out from January- end of season.
Despite playing in the second league, how do you feel did your game grow that season? Being able to expand my range and be consistent was a start learning to stay in the moment. We had a great SG Fredrick Sims and spent some time in the NBA G-league and summer league so I was around other professionals who I could learn from and push each other in practice and so on. Growing into a consistent player was a big lesson taken from that season.
This season you moved to Krivbas Kryvyi Rih (Ukraine-Superleague). Was it easier to get a job in a place where there is a war?
This season I am playing in the Ukraine SuperLeague, I received the offer late June I recall but was on vacation in Australia so wasn’t to much of a focus for me at the time of where I was going to play. I was getting offers in South America at the time as well and I am familiar with Argentina so that was the first thought I had was if I wanted to stay in the Europe side or Latin America. Talking with a friend who played here last season, he gave me some advice on what’s going on here how life is and the level of play here. At first I was worried because of all the things I saw on television about the war just yeah how could you go wasn’t possible. Getting the advice I was given I took a chance and it has been great here for me, playing well avg 12.1ppg 8rpg and shooting 47.1% from the 3. And mostly we are winning games! In the middle of the pack in the league and looking forward to keep getting better.
What is it like being in the Ukraine in 2024. Is that war presence still there?
Being here in Ukraine has been the closest thing to normal that you can get. People are still working, walking the streets, shopping etc having their coffee Living their lives.
Was it a tough decision to go there? Family and friends must have warned you not to go and be scared for your safety.
Coming to Ukraine wasn’t too much of a worry for me. Maybe it would have been for others but my only focus was playing basketball and after hearing about the season before being a success and the day to day life here made it a peaceful decision. My family of course had thoughts and concerns but they trust me and my judgment.
The team is around 500. How would you describe the first division Ukraine to the 2 leagues in Portugal. Is this the best league that you have played in? Yes, right now we are in the middle of the pack with good momentum. To compare wouldn’t be fair to either side I think the basketball world knows how tough Portugal first division is. There is a lot of talent and experience. 3 teams that compete in EuroCup speaks for itself. Ukraine is a league with talent mixed with hunger every night. A league with a lot of bigs along with mature guards and forwards. You must come to compete and fight every game. Portugal 2nd division I would say it’s a lot of younger guys finding a way to get on the court and get better. It is more of a development league for first division. Import talent was pretty fair around the league. If I had to rank I would say Portugal Betclic 1, Ukraine 2nd and Portugal 2nd division is 3rd. All good leagues but if I had to rank there you have it.
Have guys like Braxton Lovings and Jimmy Kelly become like brothers for you? One could call you the JUCO trio? We all share a great bond and look at each other as brothers. Jimmy Kelly is new to the team. He’s just arrived but him and Braxton played together in college so they have a good relationship. I live alone and spend a lot of my time reading or writing while I’m home but at practice and game day we mesh really well and make it easier for each other. Both are great guys that will have great s on and off the court.
What have you appreciated most about their games and characters?
I haven’t gotten a chance to suit up with Jimmy yet but I love his aggression on both ends and the same with Braxton both young and hungry guards that defend the ball really well.
You have really had good games this season. How has your game grown there?
I have been staying the course and making sure I stay in the gym stay healthy, get in the gym a n hour before everyone gets there, and get a good workout and stay a hour after getting shots and movements in learning myself and what I’m good at has helped me this season. And I continue to build off of this.
You are an undersized big. What are you doing to continue to improve your defensive game so you can flourish against bigger bigs?
I’m playing the 4. I’ve been a 4 man pretty much every team I’ve played on. My physicality allows me to bang with taller bigs being able to play inside out or outside in depending on what is best for the team. To answer your question I would say my strength and long arms. Being 6’8 225 with 7’0 wingspan makes guarding taller forwards not an issue.
How did you celebrate Xmas this year?
This year I spent Christmas cleaning my apartment and talking with my girlfriend and family just enjoying the small things in life. Also some new Netflix series came out so helped pass the time.
What new year resolutions do you have for 2025? 2025 resolution to be a better man than I was in 2024.
