Tim Smith Jr. (201-F-2000, college: N.Alabama, agency: 011 Sports) is a 24 year old 201cm forward that completed his first season overseas with the Dragons Rhondorf. He began his basketball career at Lakewood high school and then played at 3 Universities. He began at California University of Pennsylvania (NCAA2) averaging 8.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 88.9%. He then played 2 seasons at Walsh University (NCAA2) averaging 10.9ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 72.1% and 16.1ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 87.1%. He then finished at the University of North Alabama (NCAA) averaging 9.4ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 79.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after his season ended losing to Leverkusen in the playoffs.
Thanks Tim for talking to eurobasket.com The Dragons Rhondorf suffered a tough 73-62 loss to Leverkusen to end the season. The team was without Kelvin Omojola in the Leverkusen series. Do you feel like Kelvin Omojola could have been the difference especially in game 2 to tie series?
Yeah, not having Kelvin out there definitely made a difference. He brings a lot to our team — energy, shot creation, leadership. Especially in Game 2, I think his presence could’ve helped us swing the momentum when it was tight. But as a group, we still believed in each other and fought hard.
The second quarter was incredible. What was it like for you being part of that? How much fun was it taking part in that? That second quarter was special. You could just feel the energy shift. We were connected, sharing the ball, locking in on defense — and when you’re in that kind of rhythm, it’s fun, man. That’s when basketball feels the best.
It was the best defensive quarter of the season. What was it defensively besides the flying around that helped the Dragons be successful? Defensively, it was all about trust and communication. Yeah, we were flying around, but it wasn’t just hustle — we were locked into the game plan. Everybody knew their role, we rotated with purpose, and we made it hard for them to get any clean looks.
It was more than flying around wasn´t it? Did every Dragon have their own space ship?That is what it felt like? It seemed like the Dragons knew exactly where the ball was going?
Haha, I like that — spaceships. It did feel like that a little. We were reading everything, anticipating passes, and just swarming. When a team’s that connected defensively, it’s like you’re playing on instinct together. That’s when defense becomes art.
What did head coach Marko Zarkovic tell the team at half-time to do for the second half?
Coach Zarkovic just reminded us to stay disciplined and keep applying pressure. He told us not to let up — to treat the second half like it was still 0–0 and keep doing the little things right.
In the third quarter came the dreaded 18-0 run. How tough was it to watch that? Why wasn´t the defense working on Dennis Heinzmann anymore? He scored 5 buckets in the third quarter? Yeah, that 18-0 run in the third was tough to go through, no question. It felt like everything that had been working for us suddenly slipped. With Dennis Heinzmann, we didn’t execute the game plan well enough — he got deep position too easily and we weren’t physical enough with him early in his moves. That let him get comfortable, and once a big man like that gets going, it’s hard to slow him down.
Leverkusen didn´t really defend any better in the third quarter, except maybe being more aggressive. It was more on the Dragons? Why did it seem like the Dragons was a bit half hearted? Did the team lose faith in their abilities? You’re right — it wasn’t so much Leverkusen changing their scheme as it was us letting off the gas a little. I wouldn’t say we lost faith, but we definitely lost focus for a stretch. We weren’t as sharp with our rotations or help defense, and that hesitation can cost you fast against a team like Leverkusen. It wasn’t effort — it was more mental lapses that piled up.
Still the Dragons gave all they had in their last home game. How proud were you of the team and how they played? I’m extremely proud of the guys. That last home game meant something to all of us. Everyone gave everything they had, and even though we didn’t come out on top, we left it all on the floor. That’s what you want as a player — to fight with a team that cares.
Who was the most improved player on the team?
I’d say the most improved player on the team was Lagui. He didn’t get a lot of minutes early in the season, but he stayed ready, kept working, and when his number was called down the stretch, he gave us some really valuable minutes. You could see his confidence growing — he brought energy, made smart plays, and helped us when we needed a spark. That kind of growth and mentality is huge for a young player.
Who was the MVP of the season?
For me, the MVP of the season was Kelvin Omojola. He held the team together — not just with his play, but with his leadership and presence on and off the court. Whenever things got tough, Kelvin was the one keeping us locked in, making plays, and setting the tone. He’s the kind of guy you trust to lead the way, and we definitely leaned on him throughout the season.
You averaged 17/5/1/1/1 stats in 29 minutes How do you rate your personal rookie season?
I’d rate my rookie season as a strong foundation. Averaging 17, 5, and contributing across the board in 29 minutes is something I’m proud of — especially in my first pro year. But I also know there’s a lot more in me. I learned a lot, adjusted to the pace, and proved I could produce consistently, but I’m hungry to take it to another level.
You told me that you were a 3 level scorer and could defend many positions. You never mentioned being a Swiss army knife. Did you become a Swiss army knife?
Haha yeah — I did say I was a 3-level scorer and a versatile defender, but I guess I did turn into a bit of a Swiss army knife. Whether it was scoring, rebounding, defending, or just making the right play, I tried to do whatever the team needed. That’s something I take pride in — being reliable in any situation.
You are a great 3 point shooter. I feel like you weren´t able to show it all. Would you have liked to have used it more often?
I appreciate that — I definitely believe in my 3-point shot, and I feel like it’s one of my biggest strengths. There were times I could’ve used it more, but I also focused on reading the game and making the right play. Next season, I want to be even more assertive with it — let it fly more and show that side of my game fully.
How did you see the development of your defense? What kind of a defender did you become as a rookie`?
Defensively, I took big steps. Coming in, I knew I had the tools — length, quickness, strength — but I had to learn how to use them better. By the end of the season, I was guarding multiple positions, switching, and holding my own physically and mentally. I think I became a disciplined, versatile defender, and I’m just getting started.
What was your favorite personal game of the season? My favorite game of the season was definitely the one against Erfurt — hitting the game winner was a special moment. It was one of those games where everything slowed down, and I just trusted my work. Moments like that are why we play.
On what areas of your game will you work on most this summer?
This summer, I’m really focused on getting stronger — building muscle and using that strength to create more space, absorb contact, and finish through it. That’s going to be a big piece of taking my game to the next level.
Who was the toughest player that you faced this season on the court from Pro B teams? The toughest player I faced this season was Diculescu. He’s skilled, physical, and smart — you have to stay locked in every possession when you’re matched up with a guy like that. He made me better just by competing against him.
What is the next step for you? Will you return to the Dragons Rhondorf or could you see a change?
Right now, I’m keeping all options open. I loved my time with the Dragons Rhondorf — the fans, the organization, the opportunity to grow as a player. But at the same time, I’m focused on what’s best for my development and next step in my career. Whether that’s returning or taking on a new challenge, I want to be somewhere I can keep leveling up and helping a team win.
6 South teams were swept by north teams. How crazy is that? Is the north really that much better?
Yeah, six South teams getting swept is wild. I don’t know if it means the North is that much better, but they definitely made a statement. I think it came down to matchups and physicality — the North teams brought a level of intensity and execution that caught a lot of the South teams off guard.
Who will reach the NBA final and win it all? To be honest, I don’t really care who makes it to the Finals — but it’d be cool to see the Timberwolves make a run. They’ve been underdogs, and I respect the way they play. Or if the Warriors somehow get it together and go on one last run, that’d be fun to watch too. I’m from Cleveland, though, so I gotta say I hope the Cavs can bounce back from 2-0 and make some noise.
Is Nikola Jokic the unanimous NBA MVP or will Shai Gillgeous Alexander get it? And for MVP — I’m rocking with Shai. What he did this season was crazy. He led OKC to the top of the West, put up big numbers, and played both ends of the floor. Jokic is great, but this year I’m giving it to Shai.
Alexander Lagerman (202-SG-2004) is a 20 year old 202cm shooting guard playing his first season with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf averaging 8,4ppg, 2,7rpg and 1,0apg. Last season he played with the wiha Panthers Schwenningen (ProB) playing16 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 61.6%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 72.7%. He began his basketball career with the Fraport Skyliners in the JBBL (U-16) and also played 4 Pro B games and in 2022-2023 season in the NBBL averaged :21.2ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 78.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the game 2 loss against Leverkusen ending the season.
Thanks Alex for talking to germanhoops.com The Dragons Rhondorf suffered a tough 73-62 loss to Leverkusen to end the season. How tough was it for you to have the season end? Definitely takes some adjusting and getting used to the off-season lifestyle. It’s always tough losing but it wasn’t very surprising given the fact that we were the definite underdog
You may not have known this. But the 2 coaches of Leverkusen Mike Koch and Hansi Gnad are German basketball legends that won the 1993 European championships. What did it mean playing in front of 2 legends like that?
Not that much to be honest. Once I get on the court I try to just focus on the game and not pay too much attention to who is watching besides maybe my family/friends.
The team was without Kelvin Omojola in the Leverkusen series. Do you feel like Kelvin Omojola could have been the difference especially in game 2 to tie series? Yes Kelvin is a big time player in the Pro B and not having had him definitely hurt us a lot. I can’t guarantee that it would’ve changed the outcome but it would’ve definitely impacted our team performance in a positive way
The second quarter was incredible. What was it like for you being part of that? How much fun was it taking part in that? It was the best defensive quarter of the season.
Great fun. We started to flow and play well on both ends. Unfortunately it didn’t sustain throughout the whole game, in particular the 2nd half.
It was the best defensive quarter of the season. What was it defensively besides the flying around that helped the Dragons be successful?
I believe the defensive gameplan shook them up in the first half, especially with their Bigs not being the best decision makers. We made it hard for them to get easy baskets in that quarter
It was more than flying around wasn´t it? Did every Dragon have their own space ship?That is what it felt like? It seemed like the Dragons knew exactly where the ball was going? That is a funny analogy but we were definitely moving around a lot on the defensive end. We knew we had to in order to stand a chance.
What did head coach Marko Zarkovic tell the team at halftime to do for the second half? Just some in game adjustments, but no change in strategy.
In the third quarter came the dreaded 18-0 run. How tough was it to watch that? Why wasn´t the defense working on Dennis Heinzmann anymore? He scored 5 buckets in the third quarter? I guess they adjusted to our defense and we started to lack and not execute the defensive gameplan as we did to start out the game. It was very frustrating to lose control of the game.
Leverkusen didn´t really defend any better in the third quarter, except maybe being more aggressive. It was more on the Dragons? Why did it seem like the Dragons was a bit half hearted? Did the team lose faith in their abilities?
Its hard to say what caused that shift in momentum. I believe eventually we did lose ourselves a bit, and we were also struggling to make crucial shots while getting scored on.
The Dragons never gave up and trailed only by 3 points after 3 quarters. Did Leverkusen wear down the Dragons in the fourth quarter? More so mentally than physically by outplaying us.
Still the Dragons gave all they had in their last home game. How proud were you of the team and how they played? We stepped up from the fist game in Leverkusen and it was a pretty close game all along so that is something to recognize.
Eddie Colbert III (198-F, college: Charleston) is a 198cm forward from Ohio playing his rookie season with T71 Dudelange (Luxembourg-LBBL) averaging 28,8ppg, 8,5rpg,1,7apg and 1,3spg.He began his basketball career with Whitmer High School and then played at the University of Charleston (NCAA”) from 2019-2024. He played a total of 140 games and as a senior averaged 17.8ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 67.0%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 85.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the final series against Etzella.
Thanks Eddie for talking to germanhoops.com Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 198cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? I would say I am kind of similar to Brandon Miller.
You were always a scorer bit how refreshing is it averaging 28,0ppg? Is it sometimes hard to believe or have you gotten used to it? It is nice, my coach gives me the green light, he knows my potential and helped me make a jump in my development as a player.
You can fill up the stat sheet well. What is your biggest strength on the court?
I can shoot the ball really well and that opens up my game for midrange shots and to do all the way to the basket. I’m also a good rebounder.
After being close to 40% from outside in the NCAA 2, you reached the 40% mark. How has your three grown as a rookie? I have definitely been in the gym more this year and always working on the shots I am going to shoot in game.
Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? I feel like over this season I have grown as a defender. Thanks to him for getting on me about it and it helped me. I started seeing the passing lanes better, been getting to my rotations faster and being a better on ball defender.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can keep improving your game? I always work on every part of my game, but I been more keyed in on my ball handing to create more for myself off the dribble.
You played at the University of Charleston (NCAA2) from 2019-2024. Your game grew in the last years and you showed that you were consistent. What kind of a player were you in 2019 and what kind in 2024 when you left? In 2019, my freshman year I was just trying to come in and not make any mistakes and just play my role which was make open shots, rebound, and play defense. In my last year, I was the number 1 option and had to be a leader. I grew as a player overtime.
You won the MEC title and reached the Sweet 16 as a senior. You had huge games against WVSU and California PA. What memories do you have of the title and Sweet 16 run? It was great, I haven’t experienced something like that since my high school days, but it felt even better since it was my last year. it was great leading my team all the way to the sweet sixteen even though it was a bitter ending.
You had so many great games in the NCAA2. What was your fondest moment on the floor? Obviously winning the conference championship. That’s the only one that’s always going to stand out and it makes you hungry to win more. It is a feeling that you always want to have.
How did head coach Dwaine Osborne groom and prepare you best for a professional career? He would always make sure that I stayed efficient and productive on the court. He would always put me in positions to develop.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA or anywhere on a court that reached the NBA? Vincent Williams, he plays for the Memphis Grizzles now my junior year of high school. He was definitely the best player I played against.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time.
Keith Williams
Lamont McManus
Devon Robinson
DeAirius Barker
Tae Wilson
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Michael Jordan, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, Kobe Bryant
Who is your GOAT? KD, for sure. Ever since I could function basketball, I been a KD fan.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? No, I have not watched that yet.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Alex Lagerman in the Dragon Dome in 2025
Alexander Lagerman (202-SG-2004) is a 20 year old 202cm shooting guard playing his first season with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf averaging 8,4ppg, 2,7rpg and 1,0apg. Last season he played with the wiha Panthers Schwenningen (ProB) playing16 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 61.6%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 72.7%. He began his basketball career with the Fraport Skyliners in the JBBL (U-16) and also played 4 Pro B games and in 2022-2023 season in the NBBL averaged :21.2ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 78.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 104-97 win over Coburg.
Congrats on the massive 104-97 win over Coburg. How good did it feel sweeping the season series against Coburg? It feels great. I believe we are making steps and progressing as a team. It was a good collective performance.
After only allowing 72 points last week in Frankfurt, what was the goal defensively going into the game? No specific goals besides our fundamental defensive principles. We executed our defensive structures well.
The first quarter was a scoring explosion with 58 points, but the Dragons had the 31-27 advantage. How vital is it for the Dragons to try to get away from these shoot out type of quarters? Vital, it’s hard to gain control over shoot outs because you can’t factor luck in.
BBC Coburg had a rapid start, but how important was the alley-oop dunk from Danas Kazakevicius? Did that give the Dragons the needed energy at that time? Yea plays such as that one, definitely spike the energy and can only benefit the team.
The Dragons then had a big run to lead 29-19, but BBC Coburg punched back with a 8-2 run to trail only 31-27. What was so difficult for the Dragons being able slow down BBC Coburg better? Basketball is a momentum shifting game. I guess Coburg found their momentum in that specific sequence.
In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf got a healthy lead and led by as much as 17 points and led 59-43 at the break. What adjustment did the Dragons make on the defensive end? We controlled our matchups better in one on one.
In the third quarter BBC Coburg fought back scoring 26 points and trailed only 79-69. Down the stretch Tobias Rotegaard hit 2 three´s. What made it so difficult to contain him?
He was chucking up moving threes around screens which is always hard to contest. They were tough shots but you have to give him credit for making them.
BBC Coburg continued to fight in the fourth quarter and the Dragons couldn´t shake them. How vital was it for the Dragons showing that special offensive consistency early on to keep the comfortable lead? Very important because we didn’t want to lose our momentum and give them the confidence that they can stop us defensively.
BBC Coburg kept fighting and got another three pointer down the stretch, but it wasn´t enough. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win? Just staying solid, letting the clock run out and not making any mistakes that could give them the opportunity.
There were many great baskets in the game. What was your favorite basket of the game?
Hard one to pick. I liked Kelvin’s three, bcause he made it when they counted the most and that knocked them back.
The Dragons Rhondorf won the rebound duel, had better shooting percentages and had 29 assists. What was the team´s biggest strength on the night? All of the above. Rebounding, shot making and also moving the ball well.
The Dragons Rhondorf have won 3 of their last 4 games. Is it slowly getting it´s playoff form? That is definitely the goal. To keep improving, so that we have the best possible version of the team to show up for the playoffs
Next week a must win situation in Ludwigsburg. How big will be the revenge factor after the 91-86 loss at home? It would be sweet to grab that win on the road, especially after losing to them in the first matchup. We shouldn’t underestimate them, they are talented but we carry the confidence and are the better team.
What will the Dragons Rhondorf will be working on most this week in practice concerning the defensive end?
That’s a question coach Marko can answer better than me, but my guess is sticking to our principles and analyzing how we can best defend the opposing team.
How great is it seeing the awakening of Tim Smith Jr? He is finding his form of the early season. Could he be the difference of making the playoffs or not?
For sure. Tim is our main guy. We need him to be in the best possible form because his versatility and shot making ability can make the difference.
You had a solid game of 10/3/1 in only 14 minutes. How content were you with your game?
For the amount of minutes I played I thought I did really well. Also defensively I felt like I did a solid job. I try to control what I can control, so I’m very content with how I played.
You averaged 26 minutes in the last 2 games before the Coburg game, but about 10 minutes less in the 10 previous games. And against Coburg it was only 14 minutes. How tough is these fluctuations in your minutes? It isn’t easy. In order to perform consistently it obviously helps to get consistent playing time. But we have a deep squad and as long as we are performing well it doesn’t matter who is playing how much.
Do you have any explanations why there have been so many games 15/21 where you averaged less than 20 minutes?
That’s an interesting statistic I wasn’t aware of that. I’m not quite sure I have an exact explanation besides the fact that we have a deep rotation. But I feel like, considering the way I played last game, I could’ve definitely played more. I guess my main takeaway for this is that minutes should be directly connected to my in-game performance.
How thrilled were you last weekend winning against your ex team Frankfurt? What gave you the most satisfaction after the buzzer sounded? It definitely felt great also playing in front of my family and friends is always a blessing. Just the taste of victory was enough in terms of satisfaction.
Antonio Pilipovic scored the 100th point. Does he have to get donuts? Most certainly yes. He is known for enforcing the donut rule, so I’m pretty sure he’ll live by it as well lol.
Jordan Notch (203-F-1997, college: ASU) is a 27 year old 203cm forward from Minnesota playing his second professional season with the BBC Twisters Rendsburg (Germany-Regionalliga). Last season as a rookie he played with Vellaznimi Gjakove (Kosovo-Superliga) and Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D1). He began his basketball career at Waconia high school and then played 2 seasons at Southwestern Illinois College (JUCO) averaging 4.1ppg, 2.5rpg and 10.4ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 64.0%, FT: 76.7%. He then played 2 seasons with Lincoln University (NCAA2) averaging 5.0ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 52.9% and 3.5ppg, 2.3rpg. He then played at Adams State University (NCAA2) averaging 13.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 66.0%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 85.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Jordan for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?
No problem, I appreciate you reaching out. I’m in Rendsburg, Germany where I have made some great relationships, not only with my team, but with many people in the community by being here for 8 months now and the coaching I do with the kids. As far as basketball life, it’s good and I’m grateful where I’m at. It’s a blessing to be back playing the game I love after taking time away from the game for a while. I’m really looking forward to this last game in Berlin and finishing my first full season back on the court, then returning home to attack the offseason to get better and prepare for my next opportunity.
You’re playing your second professional season and first in Germany with BBC Twisters Rendsburg (Germany-Regionalliga). Last season you played in Kosovo and Malta and now in the fourth division in Germany. Why did you go from first division teams to 4th division in Germany?
The drop in level came from injury and taking time off. I had to leave Kosovo Super-league due to injury. Then I had to leave Malta after my in-season transfer to get surgery on my Kosovo injury. It was really hard making that decision as I probably could have played a little over 2 months more there. I was playing really good too while being injured, but I had to make the best call for both my health and basketball career. With this move, I decided to take time off and really get healthy and focus on my life at home too. Taking time off meant I would have to sacrifice level and pay to get back in the market when I was ready. No matter how good you are, it’s tough to get a job in this market after taking time off. As far as coming to 4th division and Germany, I wanted to come here for many reasons. Yes it’s 4th division, I know I can play higher level so it gets frustrating sometimes but it’s part of the comeback process in this market. The most important factor was going somewhere back in a good country with high level basketball close to where I’m playing, and I wanted to return to the European market on a team where I will get on the court a lot to show I’m back. I have had my eye on the top league here in Germany for a while now as I have multiple friends from back home playing in the BBL. I also have a lot of family history in Germany with some family living in Stuttgart currently, so Germany was the most mentioned country in my home growing up. It was a lot of reasons that led to Germany feeling like the perfect fit when I got the call.
How was the off season signing time? Do you represent yourself or did you have assistance from an agent? The off season signing time was great. I am represented by Vedran Pavlicevic with Starting 5 sports. I have been with him since my first job in Kosovo and he has been great supporting me through my injury and time off. Rendsburg was the first offer to come in shortly after I told Vedran I was ready to go, and I signed shortly after talking to Coach.
Rendsburg haven´t had a great season. The team lost many close games and lack experience. What other factors have led to the losing season so far?
Based on my own expectations and goals, I would agree with you that we haven’t had a great season and could have done much better. As far as the factors that have led to our losses, there is a lot we could get into. But based on the season before me, and all of our local player’s goals they made in pre season, it’s been a good season with a step in the right direction to where this club wants to be, so I’m happy to have played a role in it. We now have 1 game left and sitting 1 win away from doubling the win total from last season while having less games on the schedule. We are currently 7th in the league which is also higher than our team’s goal after the 5-18 record last season. With all this in mind and knowing many of our losses were close games like you said, this club took a couple steps forward this season. You can technically call it a losing season due to our record. But I would not call it a “losing” season for me or our club after both my previous year away from the game, and this teams previous season.
You’re having a great personal season. Has Max Rockman given you the keys to the team? Thank you but I think personally I could/can do much better. I would not say he has given me the Keys, but I have been given a big role on the team that still has potential to still impact the game each time out so I’m grateful for that.
How have you and Max Rockmann gelled this season? He played 34 NCAA games and has easyCredit BBL experience. One can say he has seen it all. Yes, his experience is definitely a big part of why I came here. I want to move up to higher levels and there’s no one better to talk to and learn from than someone who played there not long ago to get a feel for what that level will be like. I try to soak in as much as possible from him from things he tells me, someone else, or just studying his reactions to the game so I know how higher level players think the game.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I would say my game has a mix of Kevin Durant, KG, and Kevin Love. I also would say I have picked up small things from other players. Pick and pop from Porzingis, post game / hook shot from Pau Gasol. I would say I get basketball mentality from Kobe / MJ. I learn outlet passing from K Love and Jokic, as well as Jokic ability to run the offense from the top of the key, and see passes others don’t to get his team open shots. I get guys open shots very easily in many different ways. I´m very good at playing 2 man games like Jokic and reading defenses and reacting. I studied footwork in the post and how to seal guys from Al Jefferson and Nikola Pekovic when they played from my Timberwolves. I love studying players that are similar in height and match up nightmares that can do everything as thats what I feel my game is like. They back guys down, face up and attack, or shoot. At the end of the day I pride myself in playing the game the right way and making the right play, and the high percentage play. It’s really hard to say one player, because I learn many things from different types of players. I’m a very well rounded player that can do everything on the court and I can fit into teams in many different ways. This is why I believe my position changes so much depending on what team I am on, and what they need most.
Is it fair to say that you’re a modern day big man. It seems like this season you are showing it to the fullest extent.
The modern day big man label could be used for me this season because I have been playing mostly the 5 position. My role has been to play big and do the dirty work while I mix in things the “modern day” bigs are known for like shooting, passing, mobility, etc. In general, I would not call myself a modern day big though because I don’t see myself as a “big”. I have played with many guys bigger than me where I am the 4 or 3 which I believe is my true position at the highest level. I also have played the 5 position a bit, or big man role through my career due to being one of the tallest on my team, like this season. Even though I am very good at some things at the 5 position, I feel like at times falling into the 5 position can limit me offensively from using many of my offensive strengths, unless the offense is centered around the 5 like Jokic and the Nuggets where I can show my passing ability when I’m not scoring. Being a 5 in a lot of offenses leads to me setting multiple screens before touching the ball, or not touching the ball at all many possessions. Playing with a true big man opens up my game a lot and allows me to ball handle more while also being in more actions where screens are set for me to read and score off instead of always being the one setting them. I am really good at coming off a down screen or cross screen. I’m also great at reading the floor and setting screens whether it’s down screen, flare screen, or others. So it’s best when I can mix them in and do both. At the end of the day, I’m just a 6ft8 (203cm) basketball player. I fell into the “big” position this year due to my height and their need for a physical presence in the post, screens, and rebounding. But I really see myself as a position less player that is very highly skilled offensively, high IQ, and can do anything on the floor, which is why I think my position changes so much through my career based on what a team/coach needs.
You never averaged as many rebounds in a season like this season at 13,2rpg. What is your secret to rebounding?
I’m hungry. I think that’s the number 1 thing that I would give credit to averaging so many rebounds. After sitting out over a year and taking time away from the game for the first time in my life, I really am grateful to be back, and hungry to make a big impact any way I can. I say rebounding is about 80% hunger, effort, and heart because without these, you just won’t average a lot of rebounds. I also take pride in having a high motor, which helps a lot in rebounding. You got to love physicality, especially when you are a lighter weight “big” like me going against heavier bodies and taller bigs. Sometimes footwork won’t get the job done, and you need to know how to stand your ground and know how to use leverage. When that ball goes up you got to think it’s yours when it’s leaving their hand. You need that hunger that has you naturally chasing the ball. Sometimes the player who gets the rebound, only gets it because they worked harder. But also I would say it’s about 20% skill involved. Even though hunger and effort are huge, there is a lot of skill and technique to rebounding. My father was a true big in his time playing, and he taught me the art of boxing out, different footwork and tricks to get in position. There are also important things like having quick reaction timing to the ball off the rim, and studying how to read the ball like how the ball will come off the rim while it’s in the air and from where it’s shot from. You can read if a ball is short or long from reading someone’s jump shot sometimes. Having a good second jump, and learning to tip rebounds to yourself when battling against multiple guys are both valuable to rebounding as well. There is a lot to rebounding. Rebounding is very important, and most don’t realize it until they lose a game because of a missed rebound or 2. Extra possessions on offense and holding people to 1 shot can mean a lot to how a game goes.
Would you classify yourself still as a raw defender? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? You could say I’m a raw defender, as I’m always trying to learn more. But I would also say I’m a very experienced defender as I have played with and against many great players as well as for some great coaches. Right now I feel like I’m a good defender but there is always so much to get better at. I want to become a player that can guard 1 through 5 at the highest level. I’m always working on getting stronger and more athletic so I can guard bigs, as well as working on my foot speed and side-to-side movement so I can guard quick, skilled point guards. On top of the training, I´ always scouting and studying tricks to make good defensive plays and stop good offensive moves.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to raise your game to the next level?
This is a tough question, because I’m always working on different things or studying the game to make me a better player. I’m my own biggest critic. Like I said before, I have a MJ / Kobe mentality. Some would say I drive myself crazy sometimes thinking about ways to get better or critiquing my game. The things I work on most during this last month or 2 are things I don’t do much on the court this season in the big man role so I’m prepared to be that 1-5, position less player when I move up to a higher level next season. In my individual time I make sure to work on ball handling, dribbling/scoring iso moves from the wing, shooting 3’s, coming off down-screens, fade screens, cross screens, as well as doing defensive slides and other things that will help me guarding high level guards or bigs. I also watch film a lot on both myself and others as it is huge for growth and learning to the game. I’m also very excited to get home for the summer so I can go against the NBA, euroleague, and other high level pros that I know around my area. This is always great for sharpening your game up before the next season.
You played your rookie season with Vellaznimi Gjakove (Kosovo-Superliga) and Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D1). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
Kosovo had a couple wake up calls. I wasn’t aware that you shouldn’t drink the tap water in Kosovo especially when you have never left the U.S., so me and another teammate got very sick from a stomach virus. It was terrible. It was the most sick either of us have ever been. They were wheeling IV’s into our apartment to heal us. Also when so many people were smoking cigarettes inside the gym that it was hard to see during the game and the air tasted like cigarettes during the game. That was definitely a moment where I knew I was far from home. Going to Kosovo for my first stop overseas was quite an experience in many ways. As far as the basketball side of wake up calls, I had 3 vet imports in Kosovo I’m real grateful for, and they really taught me a lot about the pro basketball world. 1 big came from G League and another plays in the G league now. The veteran guard was very experienced as well. They really taught me a lot, and helped me more than they know during my short time in Kosovo.
You won your first pro title as a rookie in Malta. What was so special about that team? Our team won it that year, but I left about 2 months before playoffs to get surgery on the ankle that I hurt in Kosovo. I probably could have gone home after my release to get it fixed, but I was already in Europe and had been in contact with my Malta coach before accepting Kosovo. He knew about my injury and I felt like I could play on it after taking a few weeks off. I don’t regret going to Malta as it was a great experience. We had a great team, almost undefeated in my time there. It really hurt to leave and I felt terrible about it for a while, but I had to make the best decision for my health and career. I was playing really good for being injured too and we were winning, but I was pushing an ankle that was messed up. After almost 3 months playing there, I knew it was more than just a bad ankle sprain and I’m grateful I made that hard decision to return home to get it fixed. I’m very proud of my team for finishing the job, and happy I left early enough so they were able to sign 2 imports to replace me and still bring home the championship with the great season we were having.
You sat out last season. Were there doubts of continuing your journey overseas or was the job market the obstacle?
I would say I never had any doubts in myself if I could continue. The only doubts I had during that time were in the job market because like you said it is an obstacle, especially when you take over a year off. It can be frustrating at times if you find out a team goes with a different player, or if you can’t get in a level you know you can play at. But you got to remember these GMs and coaches that have you on their recruiting board don’t know you personally, haven’t seen you play in person, know how you think the game, or know how much work you put in. You just got to stay patient and remember if you can really play basketball and you play ball the right way, they will find you and your time will come.
You played 2 seasons at Southwestern Illinois College (JUCO). Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have reported that JUCO was a real grind, but one they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you? It was everything I never knew I needed. I played under Jay Harrington, Hall of Famer and one of the most respected JUCO coaches in the country. I could go on forever about stories and my experience that made me the person and player I am today. Each stop I have made, I played different roles and grew differently. But JUCO was a very special time of my career and life.
In Juco you averaged 4.1ppg, 2.5rp and in your second season 10.4ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 64.0%, FT: 76.7%. How did your game grow under head coach Jay Harrington?
Coach Harrington taught me so much through my years. As well as his assistant Campo. Harrington is an old school style coach and at times I may have wanted to quit, but thank God I didn’t. He is a hall of famer for a reason. I also played under a top big man duo my freshman year, the best returning player in the conference who I learned a lot from, as well as the best player out of Missouri who is now in the G League so I had to wait my turn. While I waited, I went against them everyday in practice and it helped a lot. When my time came the next year, the all American moved on and I played next to the best player in Missouri who ended up finishing top in the country in PPG, while I also made a big jump myself and started applying many things I learned my first year.
You then made the jump to Lincoln University (NCAA2) averaging 5.0ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 52.9% and 3.5ppg, 2.3rpg. What kind of an experience were these 2 years for you? You averaged 13 minutes per game in those 2 seasons. Did you have a special role?
I really loved everything about Lincoln off the court. I had full intention of graduating there. But on the court, my playing time and my role, and some other things just didn’t make sense. Many things happened that were out of my control and would make most people quit, but I stuck with it and kept who I was in mind at all times as well as my pro basketball vision.
You then finished at Adams State University (NCAA2) averaging 13.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 66.0%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 85.7%. How refreshing was this season for you being able to play a major role for the team? How did your game grow as a senior?
It was very refreshing. I loved Lincoln University and planned on ending my college career there. But when it came to basketball, it just wasn’t a good fit for me to be seen for the pro level. Leaving Lincoln was tough to do, but it ended up paying off. I honestly don’t think my game really grew at Adams State, but I was just able to play my game that I had been working on for so long while I was playing in limited roles or not playing much at all. But Adams State let me play my game when I was on the court. I felt more comfortable than ever, which led to setting FG% records and ranking high in other efficiency stats in the country. This led to agents contacting me and I finally saw my long journey making sense and my vision coming together.
You had many solid games at Adams State. Was your 20 points in the win over NMHU one of your fondest memories there? You shot 9/11 in the win plus 8 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 blocks.
It definitely was because my whole family made the trip out to watch that game. It was a special game to play good in with my parents, girlfriend, and best friend all making the flight there to watch and spend time with me for my birthday weekend. She is now my wife, and he was my best man at my wedding, so it was truly a special weekend.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Malik Moore? Me.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA?
I would probably say Michael Porter Jr and his brother Jontay. Or Amir Coffey as I matched up against him in High School. Jay Scrubb was in our conference in JUCO. There are many NBA or overseas players I could list, but when it comes to toughest I faced, I’ll give that to Michael Porter Jr.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Jalen Suggs
Anthony Adger
Javonte Perkins
Will Brown
Damonte Dodd
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Michael Jordan, KD, Anthony Edwards, KG
5th man honorable mention (one of my favorite players and people in the game) : Jamal Crawford
Tyrese Williams (190-G-2000, college: Quinnipiac, agency: One Motive Sports) is a 24 year old 190cm guard from the Bronx, New York that is playing his second professional season and first in Germany with FIT/One Wuerzburg Baskets (Germany-BBL), and VR Bank Wuerzburg Baskets Akademie (Germany-ProB). Last season he split time with BC Komarno (Slovakia-Nike SBL): averaging 5.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 41.2%, 3FGP: 6.3%, FT: 75.0%, in Oct.’23 moved to KK Gostivar (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 20.0ppg), 5.7rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 72.2%. He began his basketball career with Cardinal Hayes High School and then played at Quinnipiac University (NCAA) from 2018-2023 playing a total of 135 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Tyrese for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second pro season and first in Germany with Wurzburg´s Pro B and BBL team and can play BCL. How cool is it having this opportunity? It´s been amazing, just being able to learn so much so early in my career is a blessing for me and I´m just trying to cherish this opportunity.
How does a day look like for you? I presume you practice each day with the BBL team. Do you just play Pro B games or do you practice with them? Practice is normally early morning, will have our individual workout, a little film session, weight lifting then practice. Yes I do practice with the BBL team and occasionally with the Pro B team when needed.
What kind of an adjustment has it been playing for the BBL team compared to what you saw last season in Slovakia and North Macedonia? Pace of the game is a little different, along with the physicality of the game.
The BBL team has some very talented American guards with Jackson, Lewis, and Davis. What has it been like competing with them daily? Are you able to hold your own? it’s been amazing competing with them. They are like brothers to me now and I’m only in my second season so they help me a lot with just learning the game and making the game easier for me. Yes I am definitely able to hold me own, they’re kind of vets so I go at them because I know it’s going to get me better and they do the same. Iron sharpens Iron.
Talk a little about unique player Zac Selfaas. How special of a player is he and what do you appreciate most about him?
Zac is one of kind, you don’t find to many guys like him, really special in the way he’s able to lead and get everyone on the same page, to do what’s best to win. I definitely appreciate just how welcoming he is to help others figure it out, like making sure everyone knows the assignment, he’s really an extension of coach.
Your also playing with the Pro B team. You scored 79 points in the first 2 games averaging 39,0ppg. That is a crazy stat. Does it feel like you’re a man playing among boys? I wouldn’t say that but I’m just figuring out how to play at my pace and get to my spot, and playing with the BBL team definitely helps with that so when I do play Pro B that’s still in the back of my mind.
You never averaged in double figures in the NCAA and now suddenly you’re an explosive scorer. Did scoring just come to you or did you always have these scoring traits in you, but couldn´t show them in school because you had other duties? I’ve always had this ability to score. I’m the type of guy who is going to put the team winning first, so if it’s my night to score then I’ll do that, but if there’s other things needed of me on the floor I’m also willing to take that role and try to excel in it as well.
Has head coach Alex King given you the keys to the team. Does it sometimes feel like your in school again with all the young talent? No he just asks me to be me when I’m out there and do my best to try and get us some wins, and no I’m young myself, so I’m just trying to give them the knowledge that I have to help get them better and prepared for the next level.
What is it like playing with big German talent Hannes Steinbach? How much potential does he have? It’s been amazing playing with Hannes, he is super talent and honestly there is no limit on what Hannes can do, he just has to keep working and keep getting better everyday.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best make the description? Honestly I wouldn’t compare me to anyone, but if I had to I would say combination of Bradley Beal/ Ray Allen
Talk a little about your game. You were never a big scorer in the NCAA, but showed in North Macedonia and the pro B that you can really score. What are the biggest strengths in your game? I can really shoot the ball, but I’m really a all around player
You almost had a triple double in North Macedonia. How vital is versatility in your game?
Really big. I never want to be put in a box as a one dimensional type of guy, and I love making the game easier for my teammates.
Talk a little about your three point shot. You improved it in your last years in the NCAA, but still haven´t reached the 40% mark. What is still missing for you to achieve that? nothing missing just have to keep putting in the work to become the more consistent shooter and just shot with confidence.
Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I am a strong defender, I´m not as quick as some of the guards we play but I’m stronger so just using that to my advantage. I want to become the type of defender that you can put on the top scorer from other teams and I make there night hell.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? everything honestly, I’m never satisfied with myself, and I expect the most out of me, but just ball handling and decision making along with just giving myself the confidence daily just to hoop and play my game.
You played your rookie season with BC Komarno (Slovakia-Nike SBL) averaging 5.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 41.2%, 3FGP: 6.3%, FT: 75.0%, in Oct.’23 moved to KK Gostivar (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 20.0ppg, 5.7rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 72.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? The wake up call was me moving teams, and just knowing that it’s a business wherever ever you play, so I had to get back to having fun with the game.
You played at Quinnipiac University (NCAA) from 2018-2023 playing a total of 135 NCAA games. You were very consistent in your 5 years. How did your game grow? What type of player were you in 2018 and what kind in 2023?
I would say my game grew in the aspect of just knowing how to put the work in everyday and let that show for itself. Just being consistent with my daily habits to get better. I was the type of player who kind of just showed up and hooped, but I became the type of playerwho takes pride in his preparation and knowing that if you put the work in it will show.
You had many great games, but was one of your biggest moments on the court scoring your 1000 point against Penn State? Nah I wouldn’t say that cause we didn’t get the win in that game, and i didn’t even know i scored a 1000 points, until after the fact i didn’t really pay attention to it.
How did head coach Baker Dunleavy groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Just giving the knowledge of how to put the work in and let the results but the results, how to show up everyday and work your tail off.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Savion Lewis? Me for sure but that’s my brother so we definitely probably played more than one game lol.
Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA?
Either Cam Young or Quenton Grimes
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?
Lebron, MJ, Steph, AI
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 actually didn’t, I hate when the my mess up classics, I just sick to watching the original.
Alex Barcello (188-G-1998, college: BYU) is a 26 year old 188cm guard from Arizona playing his third professional season and first with o Monbus Obradoiro CAB Santiago de Compostela (Spain-Primera FEB). He began the season with easyCredit BBL club MLP Academics Heidelberg averaging 11,2ppg, 3,3rpg and 3,1apg. Last season he played Acunsa Gipuzkoa BC San Sebastian (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging19.6ppg) 4.1rpg, 3.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 90.0%. He played his rookie season with Kolossos H Hotels Rodou (Greece-GBL) averaging 4.0ppg, 1.8rpg, in Nov.’22 moved to Filou Oostende (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 7.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 47.3%, FT-1 (94.7%). He began his basketball career at Corona del Sol high school and then played 2 years at the University of Arizona and then finished at Brigham Young University (NCAA) averaging 16.1ppg, 4.7rpg, 4.3apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 47.7%, FT: 85.6%, 16.8ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 86.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball during his time in Germany.
Your playing your third pro season and first with German team MLP Academics Heidelberg. You saw 3 nice countries with Greece, Belgium and Spain, but how does Heidelberg and it´s castle compare? Heidelberg is a great spot, but every place I have been in has been great. We visit the castle a lot to have a snack. It is a extremely nice city. The people are nice and we are really enjoying it here
What kind of an experience has it been playing with the MLP Academics Heidelberg? What have you appreciated most about the experience?
I think what I have appreciated the most is how genuine the people are. The people are humble, but at the same time want to grow as a club. I like how the club interacts with all. It is all very well organized here and super professional. There is good energy and that makes it a lot more fun when your around good people.
How does the BBL compare to the other leagues that you have played in so far? Is the BBL the strongest league that you have played in? Especially how does the LEB Gold compare to it?
I think that the BBL is comparable to the physicality in Greece. Belgium was a good league and Spain was super tactical. I really have liked every style I have seen. In the BBL, every game matters. You have to battle and compete every night. It doesn´t matter if a team is 4th or 15th, they can beat you on any given night. It is really fun as a competitor to play in the BBL.
You led the Leb Gold in scoring. Do you feel pressure to have to make the next step in the BBL? I don´t feel pressure. I put a lot of trust in the work I put in and with the coaching staff I have to help me grow. I think that when you have a lot of trust, that helps take away the pressure. Growing is a process that I need to enjoy.
What is your focus and goal this season with your game? What steps do you want to make?
I want to show that I´m a competitor and that I can do what the teams needs me to do. I have proved in my career that sometimes my team needed me to create well, while other times I needed to score. I want to be able to read the game at a high level. I believe in playing the game the right way and want to continue to get to a high level step by step.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 188cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would fit the description the best? I think one could compare my game to a Payton Pritchard. The mid range is a big part of my game.
You are an incredible shooter. What other strengths does your game have? Versatility seems to be a big part of your game as well? Yes it is. I can create for my teammates, but that is still an area that I´m trying to progress in. I want to be able to get guys in spots where they can be most successful. For example being able to help a Weathers speed up the game or help Mikesell with his pick and pop game. I want to become more of a floor general. My rebounding is underrated. I believe I´m able to sneak in more rebounds.
You continue to shoot over 40% in your career? Where do you see the development of your three pointer? How far away are you from being an elite shooter?
In my mind, I think I´m there. But I feel like I can still expand my game off the dribble and increase my range by dragging out the defense. I have always believed in my shooting.
What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I think that I´m a solid defender. I think that I can handle 1-1 defense. I´m stronger than what people may think. I want to increase my pressure so I can guard 30-40 minutes full on pressure. I want to have guys have to play on their heels.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
I´m working on finishing better around the basket as well as being able to pass the ball better with the opponent throwing different defenses at me.
You played last season for Acunsa Gipuzkoa BC San Sebastian (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 19.6ppg), 4.1rpg, 3.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 90.0%. How important was this season for your progression as a player? You had massive scoring games of 39 and 36 points. How did your game grow? My game grew just from the tactics. I got a better understanding of the European game. It helped my game that I was the lead guy on the team. I saw that I was the main focus and was efficient.
You played an exciting 5 games series against Burgos, What will you always remember from that series and what did you learn from it? I remember we were blown out in the first game, but then came back and gave them a really hard fought series. We just couldn´t pull it out. I learned just how intense the playoffs can be and that the team needs to come together and learn to push through it
You split your rookie season with Kolossos H Hotels Rodou (Greece-GBL) averaging 4.0ppg, 1.8rpg, in Nov.’22 moved to Filou Oostende (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 7.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 47.3%, FT-1 (94.7%). How tough was this season and what did you learn about yourself? It was difficult to learn different styles and having a small role. I just tried to keep fighting through it and figure out a way to find ways to make it. I understood that it was a work in progress. I was happy how I came out of it and knew that I had to keep working.
You played against Panathinaikos losing but scoring 5 points. What was it like competing against long time NBA guys like Derrick Williams and Nate Wolters?
It was nice competing against high level players. I had to match up against Paris Lee who played in the BBL with Bamberg. I didn´t play much, but scored a few points. I saw close up how high the tempo and skill level was. I would like to be at a level like that. I know I have to take it step by step.
In Belgium you were teammates with legend Dusan Djordjevic. How vital was he for you in your time there? Was he like a mentor for you? He won so many titles with them. He was a great mentor. Once a week, we would go out and watch Euroleague games and talk about the game.
In the summer of 2022 you played NBA summer league with the Toronto Raptors. What kind of an experience was that for you? Do you feel like you were able to hold your own in the minutes you got? I think I did. In one game I played 20 minutes. I tried to get the most out of it. I believe that I belonged out there. I always believe that I belong out on the court with whoever is there. I go out and compete and put in the work. The difference is always how much more you want it than your opponent. It was a great experience. The Raptors are a great organization that also loves defense.
You played at the University of Arizona from 2017-2019 never averaging more than 9 minutes or 3,0ppg. Was this a tough learning process for you? What positives could you take from it?
It was a great experience. I played together with really talented guys like Deandre Ayton, Rawle Alkins, Alonzo Trier and Parker Jackson-Cartwright. It was a tough transition coming from high school to playing against men. I knew that I had a lot of work ahead of me. It was hard not playing much. I didn´t like that.
You were teammates with Parker Jackson Cartwright there who had his break out season in Germany with Bonn some years ago. What memories do you have of him? Did he have the heart of a lion? Yes I would say so. He was even smaller than me. He made the game look so easy. He always competed and was so quick and knew how to get into the paint. He really inspired me what he did with Bonn. I was really thankful having a senior like that coming in.
You then played at Brigham Young from 2019-2022 and really broke out as a scorer in your last 2 seasons. How did your game grow there?
I was a role guy my first season. A sort of glue guy as well. I was a shooter that guarded the other teams best offensive player. Then many main guys left and I got trust from coaching staff and got the next role. The coaching staff saw the work I put in and I took the opportunity and all went well.
You reached the NIT Elite 8 in your senior year and had many great games. What was your fondest moment on the court? You had big games against Pepperdine and San Francsico. My fondest moment was when I was the role guy and we beat #2 at the time Gonzaga. We beat them on our home floor and the fans stormed the court. That was a great feeling. I went like 7/7 against San Francisco and 9/10 against Pepperdine.
How did head coach Mark Pope groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
He just told me to go out and take it. He tole me that there are so many guys competing for limited roles that you have instincts that will help you beat them out.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Te´Jon Lucas? I don´t think that we ever played. H e was a great talent, but I would beat him.
Who was the toughest player that you ever played against on a court in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Carson Edwards. I was a freshman and we played against Purdue. Nothing crazy happened. They won. I came in and hadn´t lifted weights before and I could see the difference. He was super strong and super athletic.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Zac Seljaas, Aleksandar Marcius, Dusan Ristic, Yoeli Childs, Dalton Nickson
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? Jordan, Kobe, Lebron, Shaq
Who is your GOAT? Michael Jordan
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I never saw it. Maybe they should of. I need to put it on my watch list.
Jaylen Alston (193-G, college: WSSU) is a 193cm guard from North Carolina playing his rookie season overseas in Germany with Pro B team Team Ehingen. He began his basketball career at Eastern Guilford high school. He then played a season at Gardner-Webb University (NCAA) and then played at Winston Salem State University and in his last 2 seasons averaged 11.6ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 74.5% and 18.1ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 26.1%, FT: 74.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the tough 97-81 loss to the Dragons Rhondorf.
Thanks Jaylen for talking to germanhoops.com. How did you spend the Fiba break?
I spent most of my Fiba break and just recovering watching some film and getting better. I was a little bit under the weather so I didn’t do much.
Ehingen suffered a tough 97-81 loss on the road to the Dragons Rhondorf. With what kind of a game plan did you go into that game? We went into the game plan with the same energy from last game just try to scout and know the players we were going to be guarding and then also figured out a way to just give us a edge like we did the last time we played, but we just did not come out with the same results.
Rhondorf had the 24-20 advantage after 10 minutes. You scored your teams first 10 points. Is that the most points you have ever scored to start a game? No, that’s not the most that I ever scored in the first quarter or beginning of a game.
In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf stepped it up on the offensive end scoring 36 points, but were still shaky on defense allowing 26 points. What was giving Ehingen the most problems on the defensive end? I would say that our problem was understanding where we needed to help on the pick roll and just being on the close out too shooters because that surely gave them the edge when they were consistently making three-pointers
In the third quarter the Dragons Rhondorf only allowed 15 points and overall allowed only 35 points in the second quarter. What adjustments did the Dragons make?
I think they made the adjustment of trying to close off some of our plays that we run and just understanding our strengths of getting to the basket.
The Dragons Rhondorf finished the game strong. Was this one of those game where their experience really hurt Ehingen as a team?
I would not say that experience hurt us in this game. I would say honestly turnovers and rebounding was the reason behind us losing in my opinion.
The Dragons Rhondorf had an overall very strong game. It led the rebound battle and had 17 offensive rebounds, had 21 assists and only 10 turnovers. Are they a playoff team when they are playing that well? I feel like any team is a playoff team when you’re playing with those kind of numbers so whether we do it or our opponent, does it that pretty much sums up who will win the game
Could Team Ehingen take anything positive from the loss? It did stick well with the Dragons under the boards losing only 39-37 and had 10 offensive rebounds? We can definitely take a positive aspect from that loss and just knowing that we have to be better in certain areas. The rebound battle definitely was something out of our nature that we’ve been pretty good about the last couple games so I feel like we need to get back into knowing what works for us and getting rebounds. The second chance points is something that we need to take advantage of.
Team Ehingen only played 8 guys. How tough is it competing in general with so little experience? Does that give you added pressure to perform?
We actually ended up playing with nine guys, but it is tough to compete sometimes with guys who haven’t been in certain situations but that’s what it’s about getting them experience and learning from it so I don’t feel like there is any pressure it’s just guys that are older like me should be able to help them in the moment that way when we succeed, they can understand how to help themselves when I might not be around.
The team next plays Oberaching a tough and feisty team. Ehingen lost in November to them. What will be key to getting the win this time? I think the key to winning this game will be getting back to what we do best and that is getting inside the lane, getting easy layups also rebounding the ball and limiting our turnovers to under 12 and if we do all of that, I feel like nobody can beat us
You scored 92 points back to back against the RheinStars and Dragons. How crazy, but amazing does that feel? it doesn’t really feel too crazy just because I’ve been in situations where I have scored a large number of points in a long stretch, but I take it as something amazing because I know players don’t get to do this too often, but I also want to just move on to the next game because if we don’t win then none of my points matter.
Did you have a special feeling going into the game or did it just feel like another game?
Honestly, it just felt like another game. I really didn’t treat their team too much differently than anybody else. I simply try to just kill whoever is in my way.
Do you feel like that dunk to start the game gave you extra motivation? I feel like the dunk set the tone to let them know that we were coming to play and that this was not going to be a game where they felt like they could push us over.
After you scored the team´s first 10 points, did that 50 point mark ever come into your mind?
I really did not know that I scored the first 10 points and 50 points never crossed my mind. I was just trying to make sure that we have more points than they have points, but the outcome did not turn out the way I wanted.
How much more self-confidence does this game give you? Does a back to back performance like this drive you forward to explode again in the next game?
This game doesn’t necessarily give me any more confidence. I already had high confidence in myself, I just play my role, no matter what it is or any given night so know what I’m capable of every time I step on the court but a performance like this especially in back-to-back games certainly gets the attention of others and they try harder to stop me and when they do it simply makes me want to just show who I really am and where I’m from because then they may understand that they ain’t just a regular game to me.
You shot better than in the game against the RheinStars. The only difference was that you didn´t get to the free throw line this time. Are you aware that 50 points could have been in your cards again?
Yes, I’m aware that I was close to 50 points, but I’m not too strung out on trying to accomplish individual goals. I’m more focused on team goals.
What was your favorite own basket of the game? My favorite basket was the dunk I had in the first quarter just because like you said, it set the tone for the game
After scoring big points again, what does the situation look like with treating your teammates for something or will they treat you to something?
The situation just stays the same. My teammates always treat me well and are happy for me anytime I’m doing good and I always treat them the same and I’m happy for them anytime they’re doing good so nothing has changed. They just tried to encourage me to keep going and pushing further if it means getting the win
Where do you rate the 2025 NBA slam dunk contest dunk by Mac McClung?
I rate the dunk contest an eight out of 10 I just feel like Zach Levine and Aaron Gordon set the bar so high that it’s going be pretty hard to top either one of their performances.
The Dragons Rohndorf came home last weekend and gave their fans an experience that they will never forget as they erased a 2 point deficit with a game winning shot by Tim Smith Jr to get their first home win of the season. The fans were on cloud 9 and hardly had anytime to relax from the incredible finish against Erfurt last weekend. The 3-1 club next met the ambitious Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg that were off to a great start having a 3-1 record and had won 2 games in crunch-time. The club has an average age of 18 and is led by head coach Khee Ree and German youth national player Julis Baumer. The Dragons Rhondorf needed a defensive break out game as they had their hands full with the Ludwigsburg good ball movement and aggressive defense. However on this night the Dragons Rhondorf had no recipe how to crack the aggressive press and timely shots by Lenny Anigbata (196-G-2004) and Simon Feneberg and seemingly endless easy lay in´s by big man Dominykas Pleta losing 91-84 and falling to 3-2. “We beat ourselves in the first half. We weren´t aggressive and didn´t play together. We knew that they would be aggressive, but we couldn´t match it. We played better in the second half, but had to play catch up until the end. They got too many 50/50 balls and that broke our neck. We were frustrated with their press”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf forward Antonio Pilipovic. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg came in to the Dragon Dome and played their game from the start and never had a bad lull, but were consistent for the most part of the game. Their press and incredible ability to hit at a high clip from the 2 point range helped them secure the win. “We gave all we had tonight. Everybody played their roles. We played well together. Our press worked very well as well. I´m really proud of the team”, stated Lenny Anigbata.
Dominykas Pleta at the FT line
The Dragons Rhondorf were without captain Kelvin Onojola, but Marko Rosic was back from injury. In the first quarter the guests presented their press that forced the guests to 8 turnovers and half way through the first quarter broke away and were able to lead by plus 10 points that helped them keep a good distance except for a few Dragons runs until the end. There were 4 lead changes in the first minutes as Tim Smith Jr and Lenny Anigbata showed early with baskets that they were hungry to play a central role that night. The Dragons knew they had to play smart and disciplined on offense, but to many times coughed up the ball that led to easy Ludwigsburg baskets as 206cm big man Pleta would score easy baskets all night long. Rhondorf held their own keeping up getting baskets from Marko Rosic and ex Coburg big man Danas Kazakevicius to trail 15-10, but Ludwigsburg kept executing very well and closed out the first quarter with a 12-5 run to lead 27-15 after 10 minutes. In the Ludwigsburg run, it was the potent big man duo of Anigbata and Pleta who combined for all 12 points while young German youth national player Julis Baumer always found them in easy spots for easy baskets. ”Despite his young age, he is one of our leaders. He did a great job on defense and on offense, I don´t need to say anything. It is top. He does a great job leading us on the defensive end with his energy”, expressed Lenny Anigbata, Rhondorf had no recipe how to slow them down as they were always in easy position to score as the Dragons 1-1 defense was nonexistent. “I was honestly a bit surprised how well we played. This was our longest road trip of the season, but we were all ready. Our press was there and we were ready to compete”, stressed Lenny Anigbata.
Mako Rosic from downtown
In the second quarter Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg continued to play the way they left off in the first quarter combining their aggressive defense with good offensive execution, but in the last minutes the Dragons Rhondorf buckled down on defense and made a run and only trailed by 6 points at the break. In the first minutes the aggressive press continued to stifle Rhondorf as it took longer to get into their sets and on offensive Ludwigsburg got 2 clutch three´s from Abdulkay Koemuekara and Anigbata for the 35-19 lead. Ludwigsburg also did a great job using the mismatches and length to their advantage. Ludwigsburg played smart and continued to get easy baskets as Pleta made a lay in and Koemuekara scored in the lane using his athleticism. 2024 U-18 gold medalist Janne Mueller made a 25 footer and ex Drake (NCAA) German Antonio Pilpovic an off balance jumper, but still trailed 40-30. However the Dragons kept grinding away and found some daylight and went on a 10-4 run to suddenly only trail 44-40. In the run the Dragons were able to up their intensity as Janne Mueller was able to take on more responsibility and was more aggressive and scored 4 points as did Smith Jr and Dyami Janneck gave valuable support from the bench. “Basketball is a game of runs. They made some adjustments and it worked in their favor. Our pick and roll defense didn´t work and they took advantage of it”, added Lenny Anigbata.
Simon Feneberg from outside
In the third quarter the Dragons Rhondorf continued to fight, but they just couldn´t get over the hump and their defense continue to be a thorn in their back. Ludwigsburg began focused going on a 4-0 run as Pleta got free again in the zone registering a dunk and Ognjen Veljkovic made a lay in using the mis match well for the 50-40 lead. But the Dragons are a team that can execute on offense and showed what they are capable of by going on a 13-5 run to suddenly trail only 55-53. In the run, the Dragons received great support from Tim Smith Jr who scored 3 baskets while Pilipovic nailed a trey and ex Jena forward Marco Rahn made a lay in on transition. Ludwigsburg did a good job all game long taking away the three, so when Pilipovic did get open, it was only logical that he would fire away. But the Dragons just couldn´t get over the hump. Their defense just couldn´t find consistency as Ludwigsburg punched back with a 9-3 run to lead 64-56. In the run the guests got good support from the bench as Lukas Modic drilled home a trey and made free throws and the bigs Pleta and Anigbata were at it again doing what they wanted to in the paint area getting easy buckets. Pilipovic added another three pointer in the last minute, but Modic followed with a trey and Ludwigsburg led 67-61. “We knew that we had to contain Smith and Pilipovic as best as we could. We did a good job limiting their three point shooting”, added Lenny Anigbata. “We didn´t defend well. They continued to get the 50/50 balls. Whenever we scored, they had an answer. They played more in their comfort zone, while we reacted too much instead of dictating”, said Antonio Pilpovic.
Janne Mueller at the FT line
In the fourth quarter the Dragons Rhondoirf made one more run to once again get stopped and punched back and Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg slammed the door shut getting the well deserved win. The Dragons executed better on offense and received much needed energy and support from Marko Rosic who supplied 5 points while Pilpovic and Kazakevicius made lay in´s to trail 75-73. It seemed like the game could down the wire in exciting fashion, but Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg didn´t fade away, but stayed mentally strong and went on a 14-4 run to decide the game as they led 89-76. In the run the guests were led by Lenny Anigbata who nailed 2 clutch three pointers while Baumer and Pleta continued to attack and attack scoring inside and Feneberg added a three pointer for good measure. “I wasn´t in the game at the start mentally on account of the long ride. But once I was on the court, there was no pressure. I was more aggressive as usual and took more responsibility”, stressed Lenny Anigbata who crowned his career high in points with 26. The game was decided and time was running low for the Dragons. They closed out the game strong with a 8-2 run as Rahn and Smith contributed 2 buckets a piece, but it was too late too little as Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg moved to 4-1. “We stayed aggressive and knew they were in foul trouble. We just continued to attack them and never let up”, stressed Lenny Anigbata. “We just weren´t aggressive enough defensively. They made big shots in their run”, added Antonio Pilpovic. Porsche BBA Ludwigburg was led by Lenny Anigbata with 26 points while Dominykas Pleta added 18 points and Julis Baumer 12 points while the Dragons Rhondorf were led by Tim Smith Jr with 20 points while Marko Rosic added 17 points and Janne Mueller had 15 points. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg shot 79% from the 2 point range and 41% from outside and had 18 rebounds and 9 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 63% from the 2 point range and 50% from outside and had 21 rebounds and 16 turnovers.
German Hoops 