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Vladan Lazic Will Never Forget Maodo Lo saying Good Shot Boy After He Hit A Three Pointer Over Him

Vladan Lazic (188-PG-2001) is a 23 year old 188cm guard who played 3 games with Lok Bernau in the 2024-205 season averaging 8,0ppg, 1,3apg and 1,7spg. Last season he played with ROTH Energie Giessen Pointers (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 16.9ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.3apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 70.6%. In the 2022-2023 season he played with t KK Samobor (Prva Liga) averaging 20.8ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.5apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 85.7%. He began his cbasketball career with KK Zagreb and then ventured to Germany to play in the Hakro Merlins organization. He played 3 years with their NBBL (U-19) team and also played with the second team in the Regionalliga. He was able to play 2 easyCredit BBL games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball during the summer.

Thanks Vladan for talking to germanhoops.com. After 2 years back in your home land Croatia and last season in Giessen, you will return back to Germany to play for Lok Bernau. Is Germany like a second home for you now?

After 6 years playing in Germany, it feels now like my second home. Basketball, country, people everything feels very nice here!

You spent 6 years in Germany. What have you learned to appreciate most about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

I appreciate the passion that people here in Germany have for basketball. Fans support you and give you extra confidence.

What were your main reasons for going to Lok Bernau? What do you feel did this organization offer you as a club the most for you to choose them?

My main reason for coming to Lok Bernau is the history of the club and the association with Alba Berlin. I think I can help the young players improve and also I am here to help the team achieve the most from the results.

How important was it that Lok Bernau is the farm team of Euroleague team Alba Berlin? You will be able to practice against top German talents daily.

It was very important in my decision. I think it’s very important to play in a team where you have the best coaches in Germany and great organization like Lok Bernau!

How were the first talks with head coach Dan Oppland?

The first talks with coach Dan Oppland was great, he told me about clubs ambitions and I was immediately interested. His basketball philosophy is totally something where I find myself.

How is your game better now than in 2022 when you left Crailsheim? How did your game grow the last 2 seasons in Croatia?

I think I gained a lot of experience in last few years playing in the first Croatian league. My confidence is high and my game is only getting better year by year.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 188cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA/Euroleague player who would best fit the description?

I would say Nemanja Nedovic is somebody who I compare myself too. We are both combo guards that can shoot and if needed play on point guard position and pass the ball.

Talk a little about your game. You have always showed that you can fill the stat sheet well. What are your biggest strengths on the court?

I think my biggest strength are speed and 3pt shots. I can shoot of the ball or of the dribble and I like to attack coast to coast.

Is it fair to say that you are more of a scoring point guard? You have never averaged more than 3,0apg. How developed is your playmaking at the moment in your career?

I am more of a scoring point guard but also I can help the team in passing the ball a lot, depends how the game brings the situation! I am trying to improve every year my passing skills.

What kind of a defender are you and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I like to play defense, I think everything starts from defense. My goal is to be a better defender every year because defense is fulfilling.

You have been a very steady three point shooter in your career? How big is your goal to become a steady 40% shooter from down town?

Just practice. Trying to improve my shooting percentage as much as possible. A lot of repetitions and it’s going to come on it’s own.

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

Shooting is something I need to work on my whole career, finishing and dribble is something I am working the most at the moment.

Last season you came back to Germany to play with the ROTH Energie Giessen Pointers (Germany-Regionalliga) avergaing 16.9ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.3apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 70.6%. How vital was this season for your self-confidence after leaving Germany some years earlier from Crailsheim where you went from the BBL to the Rgeionalliga with Crailsheim?

It was really important to me, I think I helped the team Giessen to achieve almost the goal of stepping up to Pro b. And also I had a pretty solid stats that only pushed me forward now with my confidence.

What kind of an experience was it playing with ultra veteran Elijah Allen? I can imagine he is a guy any player can learn something from?

Elijah Allen is a great guy, full of experience. We spent a lot of times off the court and on the court, I really enjoyed playing with him, he taught me a lot ! We still talk sometimes on the phone about basketball!

In 2022-2023 you played with KK Samobor (Prva Liga) averaging 20.8ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.5apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 85.7%. You were teammates with Croatian legend Hrvoje Puljko. How important was it having him as a teammate? Was he like a mentor for you?

We became really good friends, Hrvoje is really a great player and person. Great shooter that worked on my shot as well and helped me with confidence.

You played 6 seasons in the Crailsheim Merlins system, How vital were these 6 years for your basketball development? How did your game grow most?

I was still a young player in that time so everything was new for me. Tuomas Iisalo was coach in Crailsheim Merlins and he taught me a lot! He has big basketball knowledge. I have to say that I grew up as a player with him and I’m thankful for that opportunity

You were teammates with brothers Promise and Precious Idiaru. What memories will you always have of these 2 guys?

Two young great players. We had nice memories from Crailsheim playing NBBL for a few years.

How key was the daily battles with talented point guard Aleksa Kovacevic? Is there a moment with him that you will never forget?

Aleksa is my best friend off the court, on the court we are biggest enemies. We both like to compete so we made each other better during our time in Crailsheim.

You played 2 BBL games and scored 5 points in 6 minutes against Alba Berlin. What memories will you always have from that game? You played against incredible guys like Siva, Sikma, Fontecchio?

I remember that game still. Finally I received some minutes and it was against Alba Berlin. I hit a 3 pointer over Maodo Lo, he cheered me up “good shot boy”. It was special moment for me as I was only 18 year olds.

You were teammates with Haywood Highsmith. He took a step back from the NBA to play in Germany and soon after returned to the NBA. How big was his focus to get back to the NBA? Could you notice that season he was on a mission to return back with his work ethic in Crailsheim?

Haywood is great individual player with high work ethic. He had a solid season with us in Crailsheim and I think he deserved to sign for Miami Heat. I was happy for him.

How tough was that last season in Crailsheim where you played 2 Regionalliga after having played BBL the season before? What did you learn about yourself in that season?

You have to go through hard situations sometimes in a basketball career that’s what I learned in that moment. But everywhere I played It was the same to me, gave my best individually and was there to help the team I play for.

Who was the best player that you have ever played against in your life that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

I got to say Wade Baldwin. He was unguardable.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Aleksa Kovacevic Elias Lasisi Michael Cuffee Fabian Bleck Bogdan Radosavljevic

Please name your personal NBA and Euroleague Mount Rushmore (your 5 favorite/best players of all-time)

Steph Curry Drazen Petrovic Kobe Bryant Carmelo Anthony Nikola Jokic

Who is your goat?

Kobe Bryant

Thanks Vladan for the chat

Michael Nwabuzor Is Hungry To Use The NM1 In France As A Continued Stepping Stone Up The Basketball Ladder

Even when I´m on vacation, I can´t totally turn off the basketball switch. I will always find something to do in the sparse time that I have during holiday. Over the autumn holidays, in Germany, my family and I took a short 4 day trip to the Saarland part of Germany in the western part which is close to France and Luxemburg. I usually check if there are any players playing in the area I´m in, so there could be a possibility of a friendly get together. On the first day, we visited the incredible Saar Polygon in Saarlouis and I just couldn´t refrain from meeting German Regionalliga legend Ricky Easterling. I had covered him many times in the last decade and interviewed him 14 times and gave him 2 article titles from game reports. It was always a pleasure to talk with him and watch him demonstrate his mid range shot to perfection. We also wanted to visit the pretty old French city Metz. Here I also couldn´t pass up checking the roster and saw that they actually played in the NM1 which is the third division. Indeed there was a player on the club that I knew with Michael Nwabuzor (188-G-1996, college: NMHU). I had never ever met him in my life, but interviewed him 7 times in his career. Last season, I was denied seeing him play for the first time as he was released early in the season by the Artland Dragons and couldn´t see him play in Frankfurt. But now we would finally meet. My wife let me off at the training facility in which an old aircraft hanger was used and saw the team practice. Nwabuzor was laboring a minor injury and getting treatment. We spoke about the game and his future. After practice we posed for pics and he drove me back top the center of town so I could do some sightseeing with my family. Our first interview had been in 2019 when he was laboring in the German Regionalliga with BG Dorsten. It is always better late than never to meet. I will always associate him with Lebron James when I hear his name, because he scored 17 points against him in a Drew League game in 2022 in Los Angeles. “Yes that is true. Better late than never. It´s nice to meet you finally. I associate you with eurobasket when I hear your name”, stressed Michael Nwabuzor.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Michale Nwabuzor in Metz, France

Before coming to Metz this season, he began last season in the German Pro A with the Artland Dragons. Last season his stay with the Artland Dragons was short as he played only 7 games averaging 9.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.6apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 36.0%, 3FGP: 22.2%, FT: 81.0%. The club didn´t have a great start. Was he possibly seen as having been the scapegoat for the team´s misery? “I don’t think I was a scapegoat, I think the team just got off to a rough start and I happened to be the lead guard. It’s part of the business and they felt like a change needed to be made”, stressed Michael Nwabuzor. Ifeel like the team gave up too soon on his game. They brought in Buzz Anthony who had a great season and helped the team remain in the league. I definitely think the team could have had a turnaround with him still remaining. “ I definitely felt I could have made a difference”, warned Michael Nwabuzor. He was fortunate to have been able to play together with basketball dino Brandon Thomas who at age 40 still plays like he is a young buck at the age of 30. “BT! I Iremember BT as a knockdown shooter and competitor always giving some wisdom. I learned a lot from him in my stint in Artland. He was a real Professional”, remembered Michael Mwabuzor. It then took him numerous months to find a gig and that off-time where there are no games, is a real difficult time for every player. It can really play with your mind. “It took a long time and it definitely was a tough time because I believed I was ready to help a team immediately in the same league, if not somewhere else. Sometimes that is just how it goes but in this same process you can’t lose faith in your game or your ability to get a job. The time while waiting built up my mental fortitude in a way that cant be accessed without going through the adversity”, said Michael Nwabuzor. He then found a new team in Africa with Bangui Sporting Club (Central Africa-D1) averaging 8.0ppg, 5.3rpg, 5.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 66.7%. “My experience with Bangui SC in the BAL was my second year playing in this league. This experience was very different from my first year where I had more of a scoring role. Overall, I think I would have enjoyed it just a bit more if we won more games but I was grateful to be playing after waiting for so long”, added Michael Nwabuzor. He was teammates with versatile Curtis Hollis who played his last game in Europe in January 2020 and since then never returned back until this season having made a name for himself in Canada. Why didn´t a player with his abilities return sooner? “ Curt’s game fits any market, just have to find the right situation for him and I think he has a good chance right now while playing in Finland.”, commented Michael Nwabuzor.

This season the prolific scorer who would take himself over a Brandon Thomas in a battle of 1-1 is having a new challenge in France with Metz Basket Club (France-NM). The team is very new having been founded in 2020 and moved up from the N2 division last season. I was shocked when I saw he was playing in division 3 France, but hey talented guards seem to be on every corner in Europe. “, I feel like I was overlooked but everybody is overlooked. I just have to continue to showcase my talents, the right club will come”, expressed Michael Nwabuzor. Currently the team is 2-4 and he had a minor injury and will be back in action soon. The NM-1 league is definitely a league that can compete with third divisions in other countries. “N-1 basketball is competitive and respectable basketball that has many legit professionals. I think that because it’s a 3rd division it’s overlooked but good ball is being played”, stressed Michael Nwabuzor. His role is exactly what it has been everywhere else he has played which is scoring. “My role is more than just scoring. Playmaking, playing defense, being a leader are some of the others”, said Michael Nwabuzor. You find really skilled players in the NM-1 league and he has 2 really talented teamamtes with French guard Etienne Ory and American Amar Smith who are a big part of the team. “Etienne and I create a lot of open shots for each other. Always nice to have good chemistry with your backcourt mate. He likes to shoot and set the table while I like to create, shoot and score. Amar extremely valuable. He’s our paint protector, best rebounder and one of our main scoring options. A player with those talents and responsibilities is always valuable to a team”, stated Michael Nwabuzor. As the ex University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (NCAA) guard is driving me back to the city, we talk about basketball and how his grind has been. He sees himself now in his prime and is still so hungry to keep moving up the basketball ladder. His 2 biggest goals are one´s that many players share. “ I would say, win as many games as possible and be playing in Pro A or Pro B next year”, warned Michael Nwabuzor. His team´s goal is to stay in the league. If he can help accomplish that and put up big stats, then I´m sure he will get a new opportunity next season in a higher league. I would like to see him get a second chance in Germany again in the Pro A or even easyCredit BBL. This guy can definitely play and in pre season exploded for 28 points in a game against French Pro A team Nancy where he was the best man on the floor which had ex NBA player Chris Clemons and talented Isaiah Washington who played 2 seasons of BBL in Germany with Frankfurt and Wurzburg. No matter what happens, he will just continue to grind, because that is what he has always done in his pro career overseas. “The love for the grind, the ups and downs of it are still there if not stronger. I thank God for allowing me to still be able to perform at a high level”, warned Michael Nwabuzor.

Having Experienced Many Different Defensive Concepts Has Allowed Patrick Whelan(Caledonia Gladiators) To Take More Risks Defensively

Patrick Whelan (195-G-1996, college: William Jewell) is a 28 year old 195cm guard from Great Britain playing his second season with the Caledonia Gladiators. He played with the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders (BBL) from 2021-2013 averaging 15.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 60.3%, 3PT-3 (47.9%), FT: 89.5% and 12.9ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 83.8%. He played with Real Murcia Baloncesto (Spain-LEB Silver) from 2018-2021 averaging 10.6ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 81.3%, 9.6ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 29.9%, FT: 86.1% and 4.3ppg, 1.7rpg. He ebgan his basketball career with the Manchester Magic and then played at William Jewell College (NCAA2) from 2014-2018 averaging 6.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 38.8%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 58.3%, 14.2ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 79.2%, 21.3ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 77.9%, and 17.9ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 75.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg.

Thanks Patrick for talking to germanhoops.com. Yourplaying your second season for the Caledonia Gladiators. Your playing Fiba Europe Cup against German team MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. What do you know in general about the country and it´s basketball?

Thanks for having me, I know the German Bundesliga is one of the best leagues in Europe at the moment. Obviously the German national teams is one of the best in the world having won Eurobasket in 2023 so I definitely respect the basketball played in Germany.

You began your career in Manchester but playing your second season for the Caledonia Gladiators (United Kingdom-SLB). Has Glasgow become like a second home for you?

Having played in a few different countries and places now I would like to think I have several second homes! But the fans, staff and owners of the clubs have definitely treated me well and I feel like I have friends here and know the city well.

What do you appreciate most about the Caledonia Gladiators (United Kingdom-SLB) organization? The club last won a title in 2023 with the cup. How big is the desire to win within this organization?

I appreciate the level of commitment from several staff members. There are many people working behind the scenes, probably more than they should be working to help us feel comfortable as players. The organization are focused on developing the club in a way that they can win in the long term and as a British player I am very happy that they are focusing on developing British talent to help them win.

The club has good scoring power. What is your main role in the team? You log many minutes and fill up the stat sheet..

For sure, I see my role as being an all around player for this team both scoring and setting up my teammates. The team is younger this year also so I try to help the guys during games and practice to be effective in the leagues we are playing in.

What has it been like being teammates with veteran Trevond Barnes. He seems to have that mentor duty for some guys.

Trevond is definitely an experienced player and I’m very happy he is getting the chance to play at the level we’re playing at as he’s been through a lot already in his career. He brings energy every game and practice and definitely knows how to play basketball the right way.

What has it been like sharing back court duties with Americans Isaiah Hill and Ian DuBose. What do you appreciate most about their games?

Isaiah and Ian are both guys with high ambitions, I expect them both to have great careers. It’s been great so far obviously having played one season already with Ian I think we have good chemistry on the court. And Isaiah is a guy who’s really easy to play alongside. I’m looking forward to helping those guys run the show along with Kyle Jimenez at point guard too.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

As a team we speak about NBA comparisons a lot. One guy who has come up in the past is Jamaal Murray. I think the comparison here is a versatile player who can score in many different ways.

You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet with ease. Did you always have that versatility in you or did you learn some of that at William Jewel University (NCAA2)?

I definitely owe a lot of my success to William Jewell. I’m not sure many colleges would have given me the chance they gave me to play so many minutes and make so many mistakes as a freshman. They definitely helped me to be the player I am today.

You’re a great shooter that has reached the 40% plateau and better in different leagues. Would you call yourself an elite shooter at the moment or still trying to get there?

I’m always trying to improve my shooting ability. I think there’s always room for improvement but I feel like I’m moving in the right direction. I don’t think it’s for me to say if I’m elite or not but if I’m not then hopefully I can reach that status.

You have always been a feisty defender. How would you describe your defensive game as of now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

Having played for many different teams I think my main strength is that I understand a lot of different concepts. I think I can take more risks defensively but I would like to be a guy who is consistently solid and can work in many team concepts.

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

Offensively I’ve been working the past few years on ball handling so I can improve as a playmaker and a combo guard. I will continue to work on that and defensively I would like to be more versatile so I can guard different positions.

You played 2 summers in the up and coming CEBL league with Niagara and Ottawa. What kind of an experience was that for you and what positives could you get out of it?

I really enjoy playing in the CEBL. It’s a different type of league and they play a different style of basketball for the most part than we do in Europe. The main thing for me is how they treat player development, for example when I played in Niagara the assistant coaches would put me through a workout whenever I wanted. I also met some really good people who I would consider as good friends.

You played 2 seasons with Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders (BBL) averaging 15.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 60.3%, 3PT-3 (47.9%), FT: 89.5%; and 12.9ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 83.8%. In your first season you won the double. What was so special about that squad?

That squad was probably one of, if not the most, complete squads I have been on. Obviously our point guard Geno Crandall was an incredibly skilled player but there were players at every position who could have a big night like Zach Jackson and Marc Loving. Then having players like Kimbal Mackenzie and Jubril Adekoya come from the bench meant that teams really had a hard time even if the starters weren’t having their best day.

You had a huge game against Plymouth in the playoffs and beat London in the finals. What was your fondest moment in the playoffs?

Obviously lifting the trophy was special, but throughout that run there were a couple times we faced adversity. Watching guys like Conner Washington step up in the final when we were struggling was really cool.

You played your first 3 pro seasons with Real Murcia Baloncesto and helped them move up to Leb Gold in 2020. How vital was these 3 years in Spain for your basketball development?

These were probably the most important years of my career so far. I learned how to play structured basketball for the first time in my career. But I also learned how important the mental side of the game is too. It wasn’t always easy but I think the hard years are where you learn the most.

You played 2 seasons with Americans Andre Norris and Clint Robinson. Did they become like brothers for you?

Those guys along with Jeff Solarin are definitely like brothers to me. We all lived together and we still share a group chat today where we mostly just send stupid videos to each other!

In your second season you beat FC Barcelona twice. The second game was won 63-61. They had some of the world´s best talents. What memories do you have of those games?

For sure, I remember playing against players like Leandro Bolmaro and knowing that they would be special players in the future.

You played at William Jewell University (NCAA2) from 2014-2018. Was it a tough choice to make? Do you sometimes think where your career may have went without that experience in the States?

It wasn’t really a tough choice, I knew it was an experience I always had worked for since I was young. Leaving University without any debt isn’t normal in the UK so having a chance to do that was important to me and my family. I also met my wife there so I definitely don’t regret that decision at all.


What kind of a player were you in 2014 and 2018 when you returned back to England?

My skill level changed a lot in that time. I wasn’t the best 1v1 player until after college. I also had the chance to work consistently in the weight room for the first time in my life so I came back much stronger.

You had some huge games including scoring 31 points a piece against St Joseph, In and Marville, MO. What was your fondest moment on the court there?

There were some great games and very special nights but my fondest memory is getting to share the court with Pharroh Gordon again as he is someone I regard as a brother.

How did head coach Larry Holley groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Holley was very experienced and the main thing I took from him was to enjoy every day you get to be on the court. I never saw him have a bad day and he always brought a positive energy to any room he was in. He’s someone I miss very much may he rest in peace.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Pharroh Gordon?

We definitely had some battles in practice but Pharroh was probably better 1v1 because he’s one of the best defenders I have seen to this day.

You have played many years with the British national team. How is the state of basketball in England? Ate there some talents on the horizon?

There are many talents coming through especially as of the last few years. The guys I have shared the court with like Quinn Ellis, Dan Akin, Jubrile Belo, Kaiyem Cleary and many more give me faith that the future is bright for British Basketball.

What kind of an experience has it been being teammates with Myles Hesson? How much of a role model has he been for you and others? He sort of paved the way for guys coming to Germany from England in 2012?

Myles is a true professional and it’s no accident that he’s had the career that he has. He’s a great veteran to have on the national team and someone we all look towards to lead us. I’m sure his career has definitely helped to put British basketball on the map.

Who was the best player that you battled in your career that went to the NBA?

When I played for England U18s against Lithuania we played against Domantas Sabonis. He was definitely on a different level to any player I had played against back then.

Who were your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Kingsley Nwagboso

Pharroh Gordon

Joe Swindells

Aaron Menzies

Jordan Whelan

It’s a tough choice but I grew up with these guys so they are family to me.

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan

LeBron James

Kobe Bryant

Steph Curry

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe is the guy who really made me love basketball so I’ll go with him.

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

I haven’t but I loved the original so that makes sense!

Versatile 207cm Dejan Bruce Is Looking To Make The Next Step This Season In The Czech Republic

Dejan Bruce (206-SF-2002) is a 22 year old 207cm forward from Weinheim, Germany that played withGartenzaun24 Baskets Paderborn (ProA) last season playing 27 games averaging 3.4ppg, 2.9rpg. In the 2022-2023 season he played with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (ProB) playing 24 games averaging 10.6ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 72.2%. He began his basketball career in Weinheim and then played in the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg system playing NBBL (U-19). He also played a season with CB Fuenlabrada Second Team (Spain-EBA) playing 14 games averaging 6.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 2FGP: 55.2%, 3FGP: 29.5%, FT: 59.3%, in Feb.’22 moved to BSG Basket Ludwigsburg (Regionalliga) playing 12 games averaging 9.3ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 55.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Dejan for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

I´m in Weinheim now with my mom. Basketball life is good and I´m preparing for next season.

You made the jump last season from the Pro B to the Pro A and Paderborn. It was a tough season as the team moved down to Pro B. How tough was the season for you mentally with losing?

It wasn´t a good feeling losing so much. But you can learn a lot even in a season like that. All in all, I wouldn´t say it was a disappointing season.

You averaged 3/2 in 15 minutes. Was there too much scoring talent there from especially Americans that took away your chance to really demonstrate what kind of talent you have?

I wouldn´t necessarily say that. I feel like I was missing the needed self-confidence and courage to try and show my game the way I know how.

How was the development period for you training with the other bigs? How did they challenge you best on a daily basis.

There were 2 talented bigs with Lars Lagerpusch and Julian Roche. They did a really good job pushing me every day. They were really good teammates as well.

How does the future look like? Will you return to Paderborn?

I can´t say exactly now. I´m looking now for the next opportunity and will do what is best for me.

In 2022-2023 you played with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (ProB) averaging 10.6ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 72.2%.Is it fair to say that this was your break out season?

I wouldn´t necessarily say that that was my break out season, but the season definitely helped me. Head coach Carl Mbassa gave me a lot of trust and I took advantage of it.

Was your 100-96 win against FC Bayern Munich where you scored 25 points and battled top player Ivan Kharchenkov one of your fondest moments that season?

Yes it was. It was a good ending to the season. We won an exciting game in overtime. I really read situations well and executed well. My shots were also falling better than usual.

After many years in Ludwigsburg, you played briefly with CB Fuenlabrada Second Team (Spain-EBA) averaging 6.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 2FGP: 55.2%, 3FGP: 29.5%, FT: 59.3%. What kind of an experience was that? Why did you choose the 4th Spanish league?

It is always cool to play in another country. I got the opportunity after ANGT when a Spanish agent from Octagon saw me play and helped me get that job. I lived 40 minutes away from Madrid. I would visit Madrid and spend the day there on my off day.

How cool was it beating Real Madrid´s farm team in your first game in Spain and scoring 14 points. You played against future stars.

The roster of Real Madrid 2 was full of future stars. It was a redemption of ANGT. The brother of Usman Garuba was on that team.

You began your basketball career in Ludwigsburg playing NBBL (U-19). How valuable were these early years in your basketball development? How did your game grow there?

It was definitely a good step after having played only 1.5 years of basketball. Ludwigsburg is a known program very suitable for young players. They know how to develop young players and to help them with your goals. Ross Jorgenson was huge then helping me with the mental side and how to deal with coaches in general. David Mccray always pushed me and tried to help me show my best version.

You became really good friends with Ariel Hukporti and Tyreese Blunt there. But talk about other players there that had an impact on you?

We were all like a big family. We all understood each other really well. Ariel and Tyreese became my close friends, but I also had a good relationship with the Patrick brothers, Lukas Herzog and Aenas Jung.

What memories do you have with your battles with George Cotoara. He made his way and had a good season in Romania last season.

He came to Ludwigsburg around the time I came. I´m happy that he had such a good season in Romania after having injuries.

How tough was losing a NBBL season in 20-21. Do you feel like you were robbed of your basketball development?

That season was tough for all young players. We had no Pro B season either. 1,5 years was on ice. All you did was practice, practice, practice. You didn´t really know what you were working for. It was definitely different.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 207cm forward/center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

Paul George

You fill the stat sheet well for a big. Would you describe yourself as a modern day big man?

I don´t see myself really as a big, but a wing. But I can play at the big positions. I´m versatile.

What kind of a defender would you call yourself now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I play defense with mentality. I´m a good defender, but can always get better. I want to become the absolute best version of myself.

On what areas of your game are you working on most as you continue to improve your game?

After last season, I´m working most on my shot. But as a player you always work on everything.

Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA?

Ariel Hukporti and Jeremy Sochan

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

Ariel Hukporti, Tyreese Blunt, Aenas Jung, Lukas Herzog, Juan Fernandez

What is your personal NBA and Euro mount rushmore of past or present heads?

Lebron, James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Kareem Abdul Jabbar

Jokic, Giannis,, Victor Wembanyama, Doncic

Who is your GOAT and why?

Lebron James

Thanks Dejan for the chat.

Introducing Mr 41 Points Ajare Sanni(Art Giants Duesseldorf) Who Warns That There Is Still Much More To Come

pic credit Art Giants Duesseldorf

Ajare Sanni (190-G-2000, college: UCSB) is a 24 year old 190cm guard from Houston, Texas playing his second professional season and first with ART Giants Duesseldorf (Germany-ProA). Last season he played with Vilkaviskio Perlas (Lithuania-NKL) averaging 22.0ppg, 4.2rpg, 4.5apg, 2.2spg, 1.9bpg, 2FGP: 50.7%, 3FGP: 30.2%, FT: 86.3%, in Jan.’24 moved to Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL) averaging 10.4ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 53.9%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 65.5%. He began his basketball career at Clear Lake high school and then played a season at the University of Pacific (NCAA) averaging 8.6ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 35.9%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 71.1%. He then played 3 seasons at the University of California Santa Barbara (NCAA) averaging 10.9ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 78.7% and in his second season averaged 10.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 38.2%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 79.1% and in his last season averaged 6.2ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 70.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after netting 41 points against the Tigers Tuebingen.

Thanks Ajare for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

No problem, thanks for reaching out. I am currently in Düsseldorf and basketball life is treating me well.

A tough92-84 loss in Tuebingen yesterday? You had a career day with 41 points, but I guess that you can´t enjoy it as much with a loss?

A career game means nothing when you lose, so unfortunately no I can’t enjoy it the way I want to.

You guys led 51-41 after a strong first half, but only scored 16 points in the third quarter. What adjustments did Duesseldorf make defensively to get back into the game?

I think we beat ourselves, a couple of bad decisions that led to easy buckets for the Tigers and put us out of our rhythm.

It seemed like Duesseldorf still had a chance to win, but an explosive 32 points by the Tigers in the fourth quarter helped them secure the win. What was key for them making such a turn in the game?

The key for them making a turnaround was us making simple mistakes in very crucial parts of the game

Kenneth Cooper led the way with 26 points. What was so difficult to keep him in check?

Kenneth Cooper is a great player as he has shown in the first parts in the season, much respect. We had a game plan that was working when we were executing it correctly and some defensive breakdowns led to him catching his rhythm and making us pay.

You had a career day having already 27 points at the break. How quickly did you know going in that you could have a great game?

I knew pretty early on that it was going to be a good day.

Did you do anything differently during the week to prepare? You were 0/6 from outside in the first 2 games and then go 8/12. That is an incredible turnaround?

I kept my process the same during the week, getting up extra shots as always. It was only a matter of time before some started to fall. That’s just how the game of basketball goes, some days you miss and others you catch fire. But I only focus on what I can control and that’s my everyday routines, focusing on the process; I will live with the results of my work.

You were a big time scorer in high school and then through the NCAA and pro´s never averaged more than 10,0ppg until Lithuania where you had some 30 plus games and your highest was 36 points. Are you on your way to becoming more of a scorer again? Can that happen in Duesseldorf?

Yes I’ve always been a scorer. My college situation was a bit different, I was at one of the best and most winning mid majors in the country with high level and NBA players. Everyone contributed the way we had to and that resulted in us winning championships, the only thing that mattered to us.

I was in Koblenz watching a game against Kirchheim and was getting quarter updates to your game from a friend. He kept asking me who is Ajare Sanni. Now I guess you are more known. How good does it feel to have this type of break out game?

It feels good to have a breakout game, I proud of myself. But it’ll feel better when there is some wins with that.

What was your favorite scoring play of the game from yourself

My favorite scoring play was the step back 3 in the corner in the first quarter.

Your playing your second pro season and first in Germany with the ART Giants. What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the situation? What do you like most about the organization?

My experience is still very new, I’ve only been here a short amount of time so we will see as times goes on. I always enjoy moving to new cities and meeting new teammates so I have enjoyed that

How would you compare the Pro A to what you saw in Lithuania and Poland? Is the pro A the strongest?

Too early to say right now. Pro A is a competitive league for sure, but let’s not forget that Poland is a strong league with Eurocup, champions league, and fiba europecup teams. So I would not jump to that conclusion.

You have talented other Americans with Hart, Carson and Teichmann. What exactly is your role on the team?

Yes we have a good group of Americans. My role is to be me.

You’re a guy that can really fill the stat sheet. What is your biggest strength on the floor?

My biggest strength is my scoring ability, but I’m a playmaker as well. Still catching my rhythm so a lot more of that to come.

Your 3 pointer continues to be a work in progress. Could this be the season where your each 40%

Yes this off-season was a huge emphasis on getting my 3pt % back where it needs to me. Missed out on a lot of opportunities because my % was low last year and I won’t let that happen again. This is the season that it will turnaround.

What kind of a defender are you and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I’m a defender with very good instincts especially when it comes to playing passing lanes. I have to be better in the half court especially now having to adjust to the team´s defensive rules and philosophy but I will be just fine.

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

Just working on my game as a whole. Improvements can never stop, but now I need to focus on my decision making so that I am not having unnecessary turnovers.

You began your NCAA career with the University of Pacific (NCAA) averaging 8.6ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 35.9%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 71.1%. What kind of an experience was it playing for Damon Stoudamire? How did he help you most with your game? What do you remember being the coolest NBA story that coach Stoudamire told the team?

Coach Stoudemire always had great NBA stories for us, not sure if I have a favorite but it was always a privilege to learn from a great NBA player.



You then played at the University of California Santa Barbara (NCAA) from 2019-2023. What memories will you always have of Max Heidegger? Did any of his great shooting rub off on you?

Max Heiddegger is one of my really good friends. I will always remember when I first transferred to UCSB he took me under his wing and showed me the way on and off the court. Definitely one of the best scorers and shooters I have ever been around so yes I would like to think some of it rubbed off on me

You reached the big dance twice losing to Creighton and Baylor. What memories do you have of the games? Which one was tougher?

I just remember the amazing atmosphere of these games, as you know March Madness is a huge deal in the states so it was a blessing to be able to play in those games. Playing Baylor was tougher for sure.

You had many great games in the NCAA like scoring 22 points against ex school Pacific. Whatw as your fondest moment on the court?

College basketball as a whole was great, I loved every moment of it. But my favorite experiences weren’t my individual performances it was winning multiple championships with my brothers.

How did head coach Joe Pasternack groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Joe Pasternack is an amazing coach who has the blueprint for breeding Pros. His tenaciousness, urgency and love for the game is what he instilled in his players to make sure that we reached our goals on and off the basketball court. Forever grateful for Joe P.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jaquori Mclaughlan or you?

JRoc is an amazing player and we have had many 1v1 battles, but we will keep the results of those in house haha

Who was the greatest player that you ever faced on the court that was in the NBA?

Not sure who the greatest is but I’ve played many NBA players especially in the summer off season.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Really hard to give a top 5 teammates, I love all of my teammates.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Steph, Kobe, Lebron, Mj, KD

Who is your GOAT?

My favorite player has always been Allen Iverson, but the goat realistically is Lebron.

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

I have not seen the sequel.

Thanks Ajari for the chat.

Versatile Brantley Bynum Is Looking For A New Opportunity As He Would Fancy Playing In A European Club Competition

Brantley Bynum (196-F-1994, college: SF State) is a 28 year old 196cm guard from California that has 6 years of professional experience under his belt. He began his basketball career at College of the Sequoias (JUCO) an dthen played 2 seasons with San Francisco State University (NCAA2) averaging 5.9ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 76.5% and 15.4ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT: 80.3%. He began his professional career in Denmark playing with Randers Cimbria Basketball (Denmark-BasketLigaen). He played 118 games and averaged 13/6/2 stats in his time there. Then he played a season with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 13.6ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 62.4%, 3PT: 26.3%, FT: 84.0%. Last season he played with BC Kyiv Basket (Ukraine-Superleague,) averaging 20.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.7apg, Steals-5 (1.8spg), FGP: 60.6%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT-2 (84.9%). He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Brantley for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

Currently I am in Hayward California. Basketball has been good. Continuing working out and staying ready for my next opportunity.

Time really flies. I remember interviewing you in the summer of 2018 before your pro career started and now you have played 6 seasons already. Has the time gone by for you?

The time went by so fast. It seems like I just started playing. The seasons go by really fast. With practice and the games you really forget about the time. One day it’s September and you are in preseason and the next day you look up and you are preparing for a cup game in January.

Last season you played with BC Kyiv Basket (Ukraine-Superleague) averaging 20.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.7apg, Steals-5 (1.8spg), FGP: 60.6%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT-2 (84.9%). You were the third top scorer in the league and at the moment without a team. Your uncle John told me that your picky with teams and have had offers.

I have had offers from other teams but I wanted something with the right fit for me. I felt like I had a really good season and wanted to continue to show my skills and what I can do. Also switching agencies towards the end of the summer played a part in that to.

You paid your dues in Denmark from my view way to long for 5 years and last season proved that you can be a top player in a way higher league. Are your goals and expectations maybe too high?

I don’t think that my goals or expectations are high at all. I played 5 seasons and showed what I could do. I showed that league what I can do. I had some very good seasons. I work really hard so I don’t think my goals are too high to reach.

Your uncle John played many years in Germany and knows the country and leagues well. Wouldn´t Germany be a good option for you?

I would love to play in Germany. I have seen some games and all played a couple of pro A teams in preseason. I feel like my game could help out many teams. My uncle and some of my former teammates have enjoyed playing basketball out there.

Talk about your biggest strengths on the court? I believe versatility could be your middle name.

My biggest strength is being versatile. I have shown I shoot the ball at a high percentage. I rebound and a good level. All the teams I have been on I am guarding the best player or switching off on to the big and being able to hold my own. I am happy to help out a team in many ways so I take pride in being able to do multiple things

Talk a little how it was playing in the Ukraine top league. How was it in that war torn zone. Did you actually play in the country or somewhere else?

I liked playing in Ukraine. It has had a really good reputation before the war. I played in the capital in Kyiv. It was the most protected city for air defence. I was definitely nervous going there because I did not know what to expect. It’s not exactly like how you see on the news. My teammates and coaches did a really good job on making me feel comfortable and telling me how it is. I felt like if they were not worried why should I be worried. It was definitely an experience but worth it. All the games were in Ukraine. Between four and six teams would show up for the weekend and all the teams play each other. We would play three games back to back to back over a weekend. At first it was really hard to play that many games without rest. After a while I got used to it so my condition got really good.

You were the only American on the team which is the top team in the Ukraine. Are Americans boycotting that country now with all the turmoil there?

I wouldn’t say that the Americans are boycotting they just don’t feel safe. I had two other Americans on the team but they did not feel safe staying there. Many players do not want to take a chance to go out there especially if they have to deal with a language barrier and the threat of war.

After 5 productive years in Denmark, your game took a new step in the Ukraine. How did your game grow last season?

My game grew a lot last season. The team would go as far as I could take them. I wanted to show I could do more and I had a really good coach who would let me play and also believed in me. I led the league in scoring and was one point away from breaking the all time playoff scoring record. I took a team who was a 6th or 7th place without me to winning a bronze medal.

You had a 40 point game against Cherkasy. Was that one of your best games in your career?

That game was a memorable game. I just got sat out some games from an injury so I was ready to show what I could do. We also lost games when I was out so I wanted to help us get back to the top. I felt like I couldn’t miss. My teammates did a really good job of letting me have my moment and cheering me on.

You played 4 years with Randers Cimbria Basketball (Denmark-BasketLigaen). It isn´t often that Americans will stay that long with a team at the start of their career. You obviously must have enjoyed it. What did you appreciate most about the opportunity?

I don’t think it’s often to stay with the same team so early in your career. I got really comfortable out there. Also when covid happened I had a really good team owner who took care of us. I knew they were going to still have a season so that’s one of the other reasons I stayed so long. I met a lot of good people out there and appreciate them for my first opportunity.

How important was a guy like Charles Burgess in your rookie season? Was he like a mentor for you?

It was great having him. He was a vet who has seen and been in every situation. He also always kept it real. He helped me with my game on and off the court. Also when he moved to the head coach position it was the same thing. I got lucky having a vet like him and also the other vets I had.

In your second season you were teammates with then rookie Corey Silverstrom. What memories do have of the daily battles in practice?

I have known Corey for awhile now. We grew up basically in the same hometown and played against each other in college. So it was nice to have him on my team for a change instead of playing against him. The memories I have the most is off the court. Teaching him how to cook and stuff like that because it was his first time overseas and being by himself.

In your third season you were teammates with Reggie Kissonolol. He made a huge jump in his game in his second season. How much fun was it playing with the 7 footer?

Reggie is one of my good friends. I played two seasons with him. He had a big jump in his second season and he was playing really well. He is one of the best shooters I have seen so it was easy playing with him. He is really competitive so practices we would be talking back and forth but it helped both of us. He made the game easy because if we made a mistake on defense he was going to block the shot and fix our mistake

You had many great games with the Randers including some 30 plus games. What was your fondest moment there?

Probably the games against Bakken. I had to some really good games against them. They always played in different European competitions so I wanted to show what I could do against them. But probably beating them before our cup game. I think I had 17 points in the 3rd quarter.

You also played a season with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 13.6ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 62.4%, 3PT: 26.3%, FT: 84.0%. What kind of an experience was that? Was the big 83-82 win over top team Bakken one of your fondest memories where you produced 18 points? You had beat them 4 or 5 times with Randers.

I liked playing over there. I was an older guy on that team so I had a lot of rookies. I wanted to show them what playing pro basketball is about. The team was a family team. It was a small city but they loved their basketball. They always wanted to make sure the players were ok. They ended up playing in the ENBL the next season to so they are playing well. It was also tough because I fractured my hand the very first practice. It was hard sitting out the first couple months. I felt like I never got my shot back because of my hand. It took a lot of time for rehab. I also felt like I came back a little early but I wanted to play. So it was an experience dealing with that.

Your 28 years now. What goals do you have as a player now? Would you say that your in your prime now?

I am definitely in my prime. I know my game. My goals are to just keep playing and showing what I could do. I would like to play in some European competition games. I have showed I can compete with those teams and at that level.

Please explain in a few sentences why you could be an asset to any team right now?

Right now I can help any team with my presence. I have been playing for a while now so I know what it’s like to be overseas and dealing with that grind. I can play multiple positions on the court. I can score inside and outside and feel like I am a match up problem for a lot of teams offensively and defensively. I also work really hard and want to win. I know I could help out any team given the opportunity

Thanks Brantley for the chat.

Garrison Brooks Will Shine With The BC Wolves With His Versatility

Garrison Brooks (208-C-1999, college: MSU) is a 25 year old 208cm center playing his third professional season and second with Lithuanian team BC Wolves. Last season he was briefly in Korea and then finished the season with the BC Wolves averaging 8.1ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 61.8%, FT: 71.8%;and in the Eurocup averaging 7.6ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 70.7%, FT: 62.5%. He palyed his rookie season with the Westchester Knicks (NBA G League) averaging 13.6ppg, Reb-3 (11.6rpg), 2.4apg, FGP: 62.3%, FT: 59.5%. He began his basketball career at Auburn High School and then played 4 years at the University of North Carolina playing a total of 133 games. He played a fifth season with Mississippi State University (NCAA) averaging 10.4ppg, 6.6rpg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 69.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against ratiopharm ulm.

Thanks Garrison for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

Right now I´m in Lithuania playing with the BC Wolves. This is my second season with the team and I´m more comfortable with the situation as it is my second season.

Your playing a Eurocup game in Germany soon. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Have you had teammates that have balled in Germany in the past?

I know a little about Germany, because I visited Heidelberg in high school. I played at the Albert Schweitzer tournament. I had a teammate play in Germany last season with Al Durham.

Your playing your third professional season and second with Lithuanian club BC Wolves. The team is only in it´s third year of existence. How exciting is it playing with this so young Organization?

It´s fun, because I realize that I´m part of history. I´m part of a program at the start that´s going to be really well one day.

After a tough start in Korea last year, you changes teams and went to Lithuania. You finished the season strong with the BC Wolves averaging 8.1ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 61.8%, FT: 71.8%; and in the Eurocup averaged 7.6ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 70.7%, FT: 62.5%. What is your biggest goal as a player this season besides winning? Do you feel like your game will grow this season?

My game has gotten better through the off season and pre season. It has been fun to see how much better I have gotten. Everyone has pushed me so much here to work harder and make adjustments to my game.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 208cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would fit the description best?

I try to play like Lamarcus Aldridge.

You’re a player that can score, rebound and also likes to get your teammates involved with the pass. What is your biggest strength on the court?

Versatility is my biggest strength. I try to do all those things you mentioned. I would say also that rebounding is a big strength of mine.

Would you still classify yourself as a raw defender? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I wouldn´t say that I´m a raw defender. I try to communicate well and guarding well and sticking to the scheme.

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

Decisions in the short role and better free throw shooting.

Before coming to Lithuania last season, you played briefly in Korea. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas for your first season where you knew that you were far away from home?

Not being able to speak English to anyone.

You played your rookie season with the Westchester Knicks (NBA G League) averaging 13.6ppg, Reb-3 (11.6rpg), 2.4apg, FGP: 62.3%, FT: 59.5%. You really had a superb rookie season in the G-league and were a rebound monster? Was an NBA call more difficult because the Knicks were filled well with big men?

No I don´t think so. A NBA call up is difficult in general. It is just a very hard task to do.

How valuable was head coach Desagana Diop in your rookie season? It isn´t always easy to get minutes as a rookie, but he seemed to have total faith in you?

He was great. He helped me everyday. He helped me get better so much and has absolute trust in me in my rookie season.

You played at the University of North Carolina from 2017-2021 and had great stats despite having future NBA players left and right. What was the coolest thing about playing at one of America´s greatest basketball institutions? What did you like most about it?

I really liked how everybody wants to play us and everybody wants to beat us. We knew that we would always get every teams best effort and it was always competitive. I´m also really thankful for being able to play for a great coach with Roy Williams.

You reached 3 NCAA tournaments and reached the Sweet 16 in 2019. What do you remember most from that run?

All the wins in conference play. We won every game on the road. That was a tough thing to do.

You had a great 5-3 record against rival Duke. You had many great games against them. What was your favorite game against them?

In my second season we won the regular season. That was pretty cool.

Future NBA players Theo Pinson, Cameron Johnson, Nassir Little, Leaky Black, Coby While, and Cole Anthony were your teammates. What teammate in those 4 years had the biggest impact on you?

Cameron Johnson because he was my mentor.

How vital was head coach Roy Williams in your basketball development? How did he groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He did a great job instilling fundamentals and teaching me to play within the team. It was great playing for him.

You played a fifth season at Mississippi State University (NCAA) averaging 10.4ppg, 6.6rpg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 69.2%. You played for your dad. How cool was this experience? How did your game grow in this season?

It was fun to paly for my dad and it is something my family will always remember. My three point shooting grew in that season.

Your last NCAA game at March Madness was a tough 60-57 loss to Virginia. Is this one of those games that you will never forget?

Yes I won´t forget it. It was my last one.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Armando Bacot?

Yes I beat him.

Who was the greatest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

Zion Williamson. He was really explosive.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

College teammates Luke Maye, Cameron Johnson, Coby White, Armando Bacot, and RJ Davis

Pro teammates Jeffery Taylor, Dequan Jefferies, Duane Washington, DJ Glossen, TreShawn Thurman

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Tim Duncan, Anthony Davis

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan

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

Yes they shouldn´t have made a second one.

Thanks Garrison for the chat.