Jackson Threadgill (198-G-1997, college: App State) is a 198cm forward from Concord, North Carolina that played his rookie season overseas with Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D1) winning multiple titles averaging 24.9ppg)#, 6.0rpg, 3.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 59.9%, 3PT-1 (50.0%), FT: 75.9%. He began his basketball career at Davidson Day School and then played 4 seasons with the University of North Carolina at Charlotte playing a total of 110 NCAA games. He then added on a season with Appalachian State University. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.
Your played your rookie season overseas with Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D-1). What kind of an experience has it been for you and what have you enjoyed most about the experience? The experience has been great. The hospitality from the people and the organization has been something I’m very thankful for. I’ve really enjoyed getting to learn about the country and a lot of historical and religious facts about the island.
How have you learned to appreciate the culture and beauty of Malta? What has been your fondest moment off the court in Malta?
I think just appreciating change and something new from what I’ve been accustomed to back home. My fondest memory has probably been when my family came out and I got to take them to places on the island. They’ve never left the United States, so it was special to have the opportunity to show them something new.
You have become an explosive player overseas something you weren´t in the NCAA. How refreshing is it being able to showcase your skills like that?
It hasn’t really had a big impact on me. I’m just more interested on doing what needs to be done in order to win games and that’s all I’m focused on.
What kind of a player have you become in Malta? How has your game grown in Malta? I think the biggest growth has just come from my confidence in who I am as a player and that shows with the performances I’ve had.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 198cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? I’d probably say a Bogdan Bogdanovic or a Donte Divincenzo
You fill the stat sheet really well. How big is versatility in your game now overseas? It’s very important. Just trying to do all the things that I’m asked to do in order to win games. Whether it’s scoring, playmaking, rebounding, or defending, whatever the team needs from me I’m willing to do.
You were kind of a up and down three point shooter in the NCAA, but really exploded in Malta. How have you seen your development as a shooter? What kind of a shooter do you still want to become?
I think the biggest thing has been in trusting my stroke and the work I put into it. I still want to continue to be a better off the dribble 3 point shooter and off the move.
Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you right now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? I’d say I’m a versatile defender. I can guard several positions and try to use my length to make things tough on my opponent.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now as you continue to improve your game? Continue to work on my strength training, sharpening my handle, attacking the basket, and shooting from the perimeter off the dribble.
You played at the The University of North Carolina at Charlotte from 2020-2024 and won the CBI title in 2023. What kind of an experience were these 4 years? What kind of a player did you become there? I loved my time at Charlotte. I’m very thankful for my coaches Ron Sanchez and Aaron Fearne for giving me the opportunity to play there. I met some of my closest friends and created a lot of relationships. I also developed a lot as a player. I improved a lot on the defensive side of the ball, became a good cutter and learned how to have an impact on the game without the ball in my hands. My handle improved a lot and I was able to initiate the offense as a primary ball handler. More importantly I grew as a person during my time there.
You won the CBI title in 2023 beating EKU 71-68. What memories do you have of that great run?
That was a great memory during my time at Charlotte. Just to be able to finish the season on a win with a group of guys that had great relationships was something special and I’ll always remember.
You had many great games in these 4 years against FIU and Milwaukee just to name a few. What was your best game with Charlotte? Overall the game against Coppin state my Junior year was probably my best game.
What are your memories of ex teammate Igor Milicic who is balling in the G-League now?
Igor was a great teammate and is a great friend. I enjoyed my time playing with Igor and we are still close to this day. Yes Igor is playing in the G league now
You have a close relationship to the Milic family. How special is the family? Me and his younger brothers have a good relationship. It has been great seeing them grow and have success
You then added a season with Appalachian State University (NCAA) averaging 4.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.1apg. What kind of an experience was a fifth season there? How did head coach Dustin Kerns help you with that last push in your game? I was just thankful to be able to finish my college career playing alongside two of my high school teammates that are really good friends of mine, CJ Huntley and Will Coble.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jamil Muttlib? We never played a full game of 1 on 1 but I’ll add Jamil is a talented player and I know he had a great year this season at Grambling state and I’m super happy for him and know he’ll continue to do good things.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? My initial reaction I would say my toughest cover was Ryan Rollins.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? That’s a tough question as I’ve had a lot of great teammates but I’d say Aly Khalifa, CJ Huntley, Igor Milicic, Adam Brazil, Regin Larson (Not all the best players I’ve played with but these are the best TEAMMATES)
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan
Who is your Goat? Michael Jordan
How do you rate the historical 83 points from Bam Adebayo? I´m sure the very least would have ever thought Bam could do that? At any level 83 points is very impressive but to do it in the NBA, regardless of how, is extremely impressive. Also love that a guy from North Carolina was able to achieve that
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I haven’t seen either
Xavier Newson (194-SG-1995, college: Goshen) is a 30 year old 194cm guard from Illinois that is an overseas baller that recently played Dehesas Reunidas Climanavas Penarroya (Spain-Tercera FEB) averaging 15/4/1 stats.He began his basketball career at Richwoods High School and then played 2 seasons at North Central Missouri College (JUCO). He then added a season at Missouri Western State University (NCAA2) and at Goshen College (NAIA). He began his pro career in 2017 and since has played in countries like Kosovo, Georgia, and Spain. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Xavier for talking to germanhoops.com You have been overseas 8 years and played only in 3 countries with Kosovo, Georgia and Spain, but played for 10 different organizations. Would you call yourself a basketball globetrotter?
Hahaha that’s a good question! But I would have to say no. I mean I’ve played in less countries than a lot of my peers. 10 different teams sounds crazy though , hopefully soon I’ll be adding some new passport stamps.
You’re playing your fourth season in Spain. Has Spain become like a second home to you?
YES! It absolutely has. Spain is where I actually call home now. I met my now wife my first week in Spain in January of 2022 and basically I’ve been here ever since. Now I have a spanish son and was just granted naturalization so now I have a Spanish passport as well.
You have played the last 3 seasons in the fourth league in Spain. How would you describe the talent level and competitive level? I would say its pretty good. Ive played in higher leagues against guys that are now playing what everybody would call high level Europe for example, while I was in Kosovo or Georgia. But Spain has the best 4th division in Europe by far in my opinion. This league is broken into groups so each group has its levels but in general good basketball is being played for sure.
You have put up strong stats all seasons. How difficult is it in general to move up the ladder in Spain?
This is a touchy subject for me but yes I have performed and have had some team success as well. I’ve seen some guys get an opportunity and climb up. I just haven’t been one of those guys. Fair or not? Not a question I can answer. It is a tough pill for me to swallow because I feel like I’ve earned it for sure but everybody has their journey so I try to focus on that and keep pushing. I would say it’s difficult to move up but it happens every year for a few guys.
Your playing your first season with Dehesas Reunidas Climanavas Penarroya (Spain-Tercera FEB). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about this club? It’s been an up and down season to say the least but I’m living a dream playing in my Spanish hometown which I haven’t done since the 22-23 season. So having a chance to play at home and be present daily with my wife and son who is now 11 months old has been a blessing for sure. Having the family at the home games is great. I’ve enjoyed this part of it for sure. Something I’ll probably never have another chance to do. Also I surpassed 1000 points scored in the league in 58 games and 3000 in Europe overall so a few goals have been reached this season.
Last season you played with Lithium Iberia Sargado Caceres (Spain-Tercera FEB) averaging 17.2ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 75.9%. You had many great games there. Whatwas your favorite game of the season? For sure it would be towards the end of the season in a home game against Moraleja where I made 7 3s which is my career high for 3s made in a game professionally.
In the 2023-2024 season you played with CB Aridane (Spain-EBA) averaging 16.9ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 63.3%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 73.4%. This was your second season in Spain. How did your game grow that season? ALOT! In all aspects of the game. Sounds crazy but it’s the truth! This season in my eyes was my best season professionally so far. We beat Real Madrid B who had 2 now NBA players. And we were a first seed heading into the promotion phase. I owe all that growth to my coach at that time Eneko Mata who believed in me and also pushed me. We are still very close to this day. He knows how much I appreciate him.
You played your first season in Spain with Coto Cordoba (Spain-1 Div.). What memories do you have ofthat season in Spain? What challenges do you remember having on and off the court? Well my first season was really good. Personally I averaged 23 ppg and I want to say we won 7 out of the 10 games I played or something like that. The team at that time was trying to stay in the league and we achieved that goal and my teammates that first season are guys I still talk to often now. It was a super cool first experience here in Spain. I enjoyed it.
You played the 2021-2022 season with BC Iverioni Gori (Georgia-A League), played also at BC Telavi (Georgia-A League) averaging 19.7ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 64.9%, 3PT: 12.9%, FT: 58.8%. It was your las tseason in Georgia. How do you summarize your time in Georgia? How would you compare the talent level and competitive level to other leagues that you saw overseas?
Well like I said earlier in Georgia I played against former G league guys , guys that now have played in ABA league , BBL, Spain 2 , Winners league. I can go on hahaha so yes the level there was really good and a lot of guys are making good careers after playing there. In my eyes it’s a really competitive league. All 4 imports are usually killers. Personally I did well. Top 3 in points my first two seasons there. I held my own against a lot of guys that on paper were more talented or came from higher levels , d1 etc. I left Georgia with a lot of confidence in who I was as a player.
You played 1 season with Burji Telavi (Georgia-A League). What was your fondest memory playing with this club? This was the season right after covid so it was tough but for everybody playing in Europe at that time. With quarantine and all the covid tests we had to take. But I played this season alongside one of my best friends James Edmond so that made it special and we got through the ups and downs of the season together. We missed the playoffs by 1 game that season after going on a late run at the end.
You also played with State University of Sport (Georgia-A League) in 2020 averaging PPG-3 (20.8), 6.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 63.2%. Your stay was short. How tough was the whole Covid situation for you? What memories do you have of that short season?
Yeah so this was my first season in Georgia. I think we only played 6 games because of covid. I was playing really well being the only import on my team ,playing against 3 or 4 imports every game. But I also remember it like yesterday when Rudy Gobert did what he did and the NBA was shut down . We were shut down about 3 or 4 days later hahah it was crazy. Also a time I’ll never forget because I was on facetime with my cousin at the time when the news about Kobe passing away broke the internet. And I remember going to the practice the next day. Everything was so weird and things just felt so off for everybody. Crazy times !!
You played your rookie season overseas with KB Rahoveci (Kosovo-SuperLeague) averaging 14.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 58.7%, 3FGP: 20.0%, FT: 65.7%, in Feb.’18 moved to KB Kalaja Prizren (Kosovo-Liga e pare). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
Honestly I can’t say I had a rough adjustment to Europe because I didn’t. In the super league I played well being the import with the least minutes and decided to leave and help a team in the second league move up which we were able to do. And had a crazy celebration after. Moments I’ll never forget. I can say it was an adjustment for sure with the traveling calls like any rookie but Kosovo has some of the best food I’ve ever had in Europe. Very underrated food spot!
The next season you didn’t play overseas. Did you have issues about being overseas? What did you do that season?
I won’t go too deep into this but long story short after the promotion, I was told I would be brought back to play super league again. At the end of July I was told they weren’t bringing me back. I was caught off guard and didn’t talk to any agents or anything that summer so yeah. Lesson learned there!! That season I just worked a normal job at home and trained daily with my trainer at that time. Very tough year mentally but I became a better player that gap season for sure.
You’re 30 years old. What goals do you still have as a pro player? How tough is the grind and pay?
Well now that I’ll enter this summer’s market as a Bosman A player for the first time honestly. I don’t know what to expect. But my goal is to try to climb as high as I can moving around Europe not counting as an import anymore. It’s definitely been a grind but I love it! I love being an underdog and proving myself right more than trying to prove people wrong. The money at his stage of my career could for sure be better, but I feel like I’ve shown I’m not just playing for the money. I’m playing because I really love the game and the grind! Hopefully I’ll start recuperating some of my hard work back now with some new experiences and better salaries. but what’s clear is that im going to keep working how I work and we will see where it takes me. Im a real basketball junkie haha so my plan is to play until the wheels fall off
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 194cm shooting guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
Yeah so my game for sure is primarily generated by my ability to score but I also feel like when given the opportunity I can really make plays for my teammates. My favorite player is Kevin Durant and obviously I won’t say I play like him but I have definitely copied a lot and watched a ton of his film. If iIhad to compare my game i would say like a Dion Waiters who’s not in the league anymore or if you watch a lot of Euro League you’ve seen Talen Horton Tucker recently, I would say I’ m a less athletic THT for sure. Pretty much the same size, build and long arms.
You fill the stat sheet really well. Your shooting really stands out. What other strengths really stand out with your offensive game?
I definitely wouldn’t call myself a shooter. More of a shot maker, but my biggest strength is getting down hill to the rim. Also my post up game, taking advantage of smaller guards. Sometimes I even post up guys taller than me because I’m stronger or ill say pretty strong for a guard. I feel I can do everything offensively, and am a 3 level scorer.
Talk about your development as a scorer overseas. You scored the ball great in college. Where do you see the development of your game at the moment and where can you still bring it?
I would have to say I still have a lot of work to do. I feel like there are some areas I feel I’ve mastered but always trying to add little things. And obviously always trying to improve my 3 point percentage even though my percentage doesn’t always tell the true story of my shooting ability because I shoot a lot of tough 3s, late shot clock and step backs etc. In the most recent years I have definitely become a huge threat playing out of the low post.
How have you seen the development of your defense? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? Not only for me but for a lot of guys that are labeled ‘scorers’ our defense is immediately questioned. I wont say im the best defender but what I am is SUPER competitive. I don’t like being scored on. In Europe defense is a team thing and depends a lot on the team’s personnel but I believe I’m a guy that can guard 1-4 in a lot of leagues.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player? I’m always trying to improve my 3 point shooting. Can never get up too many reps. I’m a guy that locks in during the summer so really everything gets sharpened but definitely shooting because I’m put in those type of situations.
You played 2 seasons at North Central Missouri College (JUCO) and in your last season averaged 14.0ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 47.1%, FT: 66.2%. Every baller that I have interviewed has said that JUCO was a real grind, but an experience they wouldn’t have traded for the world. How was it for you?
Man for me for sure it’s the same. My guys from JUCO I still keep in touch with. We went through so much together in that small town of Trenton, Missouri. I can tell stories about my time there for hours on hours!
How valuable was head coach Jeremy Esry in your development in JUCO? How did he help your game the most?
Well actually coach E was the assistant coach during my two years. But he for sure was a part of my development. From the hard talks we had after my freshman year about my weight and coaches saying I needed to find a position on the court and become a guard. I achieved those things as a sophomore coming back and we had a good run.
You then played a season at Missouri Western State University (NCAA2) averaging 6.4ppg, 1.7rpg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 47.6%, FT: 75.0%. You made a good adjustment to the NCAA 2. How did your game grow there under Brett Weiberg?
My toughest year of my career no doubt. Things didn’t go as planned. I wasn’t used to how I was recruited. I still had some big games when given the opportunity and helped us win a few games as well. MIAA was and still is the best division 2 conference so great experience and played against a lot of Pros.
You had many great games like scoring 25 points in a win over Ft Hays State. What was your fondest moment there? Yes, that was my breakout game in front of our home crowd. I still go watch the youtube special on that game sometimes hahaha.
You then finished at Goshen College (NAIA) averaging 15.7ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 76.9%.You took a step back to play in the NAIA. Why did you make this move?
Like I said earlier, things at MoWest didn’t go how I expected. And at that time I knew I wanted to be a PRO after college so I wanted an opportunity to show my full game. Goshen gave me that opportunity again in the toughest NAIA conference there is, in Indiana the heart of basketball.
You had many great games at Goshen like hitting IU Kokomo for 25 points in a win. What was your fondest moment there? That was a good game for sure. I had a few explosive games at Goshen. But for me easily was beating St Francis at home when they were ranked number 1 in the country. I might have only had 16 or 17 points that game but it was a huge win.
How did coach Neal Young give you that last push and helped you be prepared for a pro career?
Honestly I cant think him enough for the freedom he gave me after having a rough year mentally at the d2.He truly believed in me and also challenged me in film sessions. He never treated me differently even though I was the big recruit brought in. Also he helped me form the relationship I have with ErrickMcCollum (goshen college alum) who is a big brother/mentor who i can always ask for advice and someone to follow as he’s still going at a high level.
Who won a 1-1 in practice, you or Dominique Cartier?
Hahaha ahhh man a-lot of battles with my guy Domo!! We handed out a lot of Ls to people in open runs across Indiana that year after the season. I must mention that! But I have to say I won the most between us for sure! It’s probably 15 wins to his 5 or somewhere around there if we count the days won.
Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA? I came up in high school at a time where Illinois basketball was full of talent and the AAU circuit was crazy, so i’ve played against a lot of NBA players and even now Euro League guys. Ill say the toughest for sure would have been Jabari Parker or Josh Jackson. I can also say Kendrick Nunn, Jahlil Okafor ,Alec Peters or Kevin Punter.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
This is tough! I don’t want to offend anybody haha so ill do 5 guys that played or are playing professionally now. PG: Herman Senor SG: Me of course SF: Evan Hinson PF: James Edmond C: Duane Clark
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?
Kobe , LeBron , Kevin Durant and Shaq
Who is your GOAT? I’ll say the GOAT is MJ for sure but my goat is KOBE. but KD is the most prolific scorer ever!
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?
No I didn’t see it, im more of a Netflix series guy. I can’t tell you the last time I went and saw a movie.
DeLonnie Hunt (183-PG-2001, college: Richmond, agency: Players Group) is a 24 year old 183cm guard that played his rookie season with KK Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia-Premijer Liga) averaging (15.6ppg), 4.4rpg, Assists-4 (4.6apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 76.1%; and in the ENBL averaged (21.5ppg), 4.2rpg, 6.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 75.0%). He began his basketball career at Rock Creek Christian Academy and also played at DC Premier (DC) (UAA U17). He then played at Wagner College (NCAA) from 2020-2023 playing a total of 99 games. He then finished at the University of Richmond (NCAA) averaging 9.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 76.6% and 15.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.7apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 84.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.
Your playedyour rookie season overseas with KK Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia-Premijer Liga). What kind of an experience was it and what do you appreciate most about this great organization?
It was an amazing experience especially with being in another league the ENBL! Been able to travel across Croatia and other places across Europe. The competition has been very good as well! I appreciate the club accepting me and allowing me to be me! Also understanding I went through one of the most traumatic things a person can go through which is losing your mom and knowing sometimes that can affect my days and allowing me to go through my emotions with their support if I need it
As a guy coming from Maryland, what was it like living in Croatia? What have you enjoyed most about their culture? It has definitely been different just living in a whole different country but the one thing I have enjoyed is how passionate fans are when it comes to basketball!
What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
To be honest after my first flight when I got here was really my wake up Call, then noticing I’m 6hrs ahead of everyone at home added to that, sometimes I’ll be on the with my brothers and it would be dark here but light over there and that still kind of gets to me until this day!
Your had an incredible rookie season in Croatia and even better in the ENBL where you averaged 21ppg and 6,0apg. You never averaged more than 2.7apg in the NCAA. Did you always know that you had those special playmaking qualities in you? Yes sir, college rules are different in regards to what counts as an assist! Also my last couple of years in Richmond our big man was the leading assist guy because of how our offense was structured. Now that I am overseas I am back to playing where I have to create for myself and others and my teammates make my job a lot easier especially how well they shoot the ball when contested and uncontested!
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 183cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description? I would have to say DeAaron Fox. Quick lefties that play strong at the rim and have found our shots as our careers have progressed. I feel like we were both a little reckless early on but as I’m getting older I’m learning when and how to use my explosiveness and take more midrange and 3s with confidence.
You have always filled the stat sheet well. Talk a little about your offensive game and it’s biggest strengths?
For a small guard I get to the rim and finish at a very high clip! I think that’s one of my strengths and the reason I’m able to do So is because I’m able to read the defense because I’m not so much worried about the guy that is guarding me. Drawing two and making the right read! Midrange is something I rely on when I can’t get all the way to the rim and being a pest on defense.
You were up and down as a three point shooter in the NCAA but shooting the ball well as a rookie. What can you credit most to your rise in your shooting percentages? To be honest, in my opinion I don’t think percentages tell the whole story sometimes, of course I can improve on 3pt shooting but a lot of times at Wagner I was shooting a lot of bad threes and ones at the end of the shot clock, same with my last year at Richmond! My first year at Richmond and first year at Wagner I shot close to 40% just by taking good ones and open shots. What I can credit most of the rise is just trusting myself when the defense dares me to shot and to the work I put in every summer/preseason and after practices.
Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you right now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?
I’m an aggressive defender that likes to pressure and make other guards feel uncomfortable, I think I’m also a smart defender that plays without fouling a lot and just forcing opponents to make tough shots over me! I think my steals are generated from being in the right spaces having fast hands rather than gambling a lot. I would just like to improve in those ways as a defender and post defense, one thing about when these guys see me matched up they try to go post and from what I believe I’m not growing anymore so I would just like to be more sturdy and hard to move/post up when those times come.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? Off the dribble 3s are something I’m working on most because I’m noticing that guys are kind of afraid of my speed so they live with me shooting 3s and I know I can knock them down I just want that to be at a high clip so my game can open up even more for me and my teammates.
You played at Wagner College (NCAA) from 2020-2023. How valuable were these 3 years in your basketball development under Bashir Mason and Donald Copeland? How did each coach help you most with your game? Yes both of them contributed to the tenacity I play defense with. I think them both trusting me as a young freshmen early to help lead a team in a strange COVID year was very helpful too. There’s a reason that even though I’m a rookie I’m comfortable playing with veterans and older guys because they threw me in the fire early in order to figure it out and I’ve been able to grow each year every since.
You had many great games there including against SFU and Delaware State. What was your fondest moment on the court there? My fondest moment would have to be my freshmen year I had a steal in the backcourt that led to two free throws which iced the game and gave us a regular season championship. My sophomore year there was a NBA logo dagger three that I made that sent the spiro sports center in an uproar that helped us reach the NEC final. My freshmen year we won 10 straight which was the longest streak in school history and the following year, when I was a sophomore when Arkansas beat Auburn we had the longest win streak in the country at 15
You then played 2 seasons at the University of Richmond (NCAA) averaging 9.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 76.6% and 15.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.7apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 84.3%. You made a big jump in your game in your last year under Chris Mooney. How did he give you that last push in your game?
Coach Mooney helped me realize how to be a point guard while not always having to control the ball! Cutting getting easy layups without wasting too much energy and just having a better read on the game. My first year I missed 10 games and came back in a crucial moment to where the team was starting to roll. Like I mentioned earlier I always had a capability to score but in those games when I first got back that wasn’t quite my job yet hence to why later in the year my scoring started to trend upwards. My second year those things he taught me really started to show and I had an even better understanding with a year of Richmond basketball under my belt. I also just think him allowing me to be reckless at times and trust that would work for me and others is another reason as to why I was able to have success in a Spiders uniform.
You had many great games there like against Marist and Ball State and against George Washington where you secured your team the 66-61 win with the last 6 points with free throws. What was your fondest moment on the court? Regular season championship having 18 to secure the 1 seed for the a10 tourney is definitely one. Beating VCU at Richmond in a sold out red out game at our place was a crazy environment/TV game. Beating Dayton who was -16th in the country at the time at our place in a white out game that was also a TV game and we had a 11 game win streak.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jordan King? We never played a 1 on 1 game just me and him but we’ve played king of the court a couple times with other teammates like Tyler Harris and Isiah Bigelow and it was hard for those games to finish because of how competitive everyone involved were! Love king I tell him I hate that we only had one season together and I missed 10 chances to play in the same backcourt as him! I believed we were the best backcourt in the A10 that year and were on the verge of proving that until I broke my wrist 4 games in.
Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Alex Morales, he was 2 time POTY on my team at Wagner, going bs him in practice everyday was definitely tough but really helped me in a long run! He’s currently on a two way with Orlando Magic! One of my best teammates I’ve ever went to battle withPlease name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Mannnn I love all my teammates I was a part of some really great teams to the point where I pretty much keep up with about 85% of the guys that I’ve hooped with in college. That Richmond team my first year was special to me and so was that Wagner team my freshmen year so go 5 is challenging man Boogie Ford & Jamier Fletcher (WAG), Djimon Bailey (RICH), Mikkel Tyne and Jason Roche (RICH
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? My favorite guys to watch not who I think is the greatest are Kobe, KD Steph Curry, Prime John Wall. Greatest: MJ/Bron/Kobe/KD Who is your GOAT? Kobe
What is your personal take on Bam Adebayo’s 83 points? How much respect does that performance deserve despite how it ended and all the foul shots? Definitely deserves some respect because 83 points is a lot of points in just not a fan because it happened vs my hometown team smh
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone? Yes I’ve seen the sequel ! I just think the sequel could’ve came a little earlier than it did rather than being an afterthought. Felt like it was random than actually planned to do.
Marley Jean-Louis (188-SG-1994) is a 32 year old 188cm guard that is playing his 14th professional season and third with DBV Charlottenburg (Regionalliga) where he averaged 21,9ppg,5,2rpg, 2,4apg and 1,2spg. He began his career in the Alba Berlin organization and then played for clubs like Munster, EN Baskets Schwelm, FC Schalke 04, EPG Baskets Koblenz, ScanPlus Baskets Elchingen, Rhein Stars,and BSW Sixers Sandersdorf. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Marley for talking to germanhoops.com. Let´s talk a bit about your game. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player would best fit the description? What would you say? It’s Mike James of course hahah. No but I think a fair comparison is probably Desmond Bane. Both big guards and great shooters playing with their own pace. Besides that I took a lot of Devin Bookers game and tried replicate it so that might work too.
You were always a player that filled the stat sheet well. However do you feel like you had that label too much of being a lethal scorer than anything else? No not really I think I can help the team and every way possible. But of course it’s nice that clubs or coaches appreciate parts of your game.
Your playing your third season for DBV Charlottenburg (Regionalliga) a team that has changed their name a few times the last years. Has this organization become like a second home for you?
I think what makes it special is that the club is in Berlin where I’m from and my family also lives there so that’s why it is something special to play for that club. Besides that I think the club has great potential and with the right focus, mindset and right decision it can be something special in German Basketball.
You’re an incredible three point shooter. How have you seen the development of your shot? It seems like your percentages have been at their best in the last few years?
One of the big reasons is the work I put in everyday and especially during the summers besides that it’s also so my mindset and my experience I gathered all over the years. I know who I am as a player and that really helps me believing in myself and my skills. I’m thankful that my coaches and teammates do that too´.
How would you describe your defensive game? How has it grown over the years?
I would describe it as physical. I use my strength to make it hard for the opponent to score. I would say at the beginning of my “professional” career I was more known of a defensive player and more of a 3&D guy. Over the years I developed my offensive game so now people might forget that I can still guard on a high level.
On what areas are you still working on now at age 32?
Everything. Especially my Athleticism and my body. I think I’m in the best shape of my life right now. Thanks to my Personal Trainer Eugen Bantschikow I have the chance to workout on a really high and professional level with him. Basketball wise I still work on everything basketball is always evolving, how to work out and new things you can do to get better. That´s why I love basketball there is always things to learn and watching the game.
This is your 9th organization in your career and you have moved around a lot in Germany. Could this be your final destination?
Except for one destination I’m happy to had the chance to see so many organizations and all the experience I made with them. If the dreams is going to be my final destination, I don’t know yet. But for now I’m happy to be part of the club. Let’s see how the negotiations are going this summer.
The team moved up to the Pro B in 2023. What was so special about that season´s team? It was a good combination of young and experienced guys. We had a great chemistry even though most of us such as myself joined the team a little bit later in the season. Everyone had the same goal in mind and luckily we achieved it.
You beat Stade in the finals and averaged 19.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 43.9%, FT: 74.4% that season. Scoring wise it was your best season as a pro. What was the secret to having such an increase in your scoring? I think a big reason was just being back in Berlin. Where I was feeling comfortable because I had my family and friends around me. The coach gave me a lot of freedom which helped me to get my confidence back. All these combined helped to get back to my real self
Was the playoff series loss the next season against Rhondorf one of your toughest loses as a professional. What was missing from getting over the hump?
To be honest no it wasn’t. It was a tough one and it might would’ve been the toughest loss if we would’ve been able to go to pro a but because that wasn’t a case I would rank other ones above It. I think it was just small things we had practice 2-3 times a week and didn’t have everybody at practice most of the time so we couldn’t find the rhythm we might’ve needed to pull out that win. But I still thinks as a team under these type of circumstances we performed really well and gave everything we had that season.
Last season you played with the BSW Sixers Sandersdorf (ProB) averaging 9.9ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 65.1%. This time you lost a tough series to the Miners. What was key this time for not getting over the hump in that playoff series?
Yeah unfortunately I didn’t perform as well as I wanted to this season. But the BSW Sixers will always be a special time for me. I think at the beginning of the season nobody thought we would go that far. But Lukas Vargas who in my opinion is definitely one of the best coaches in the league who would immediately make an positive impact to any organization did a great job with his assistant Magnus and made us a really good team with basically 7 new players joining the BSW Sixers. At the end again it was just small mistakes that made us lose the series. We had the chance in Essen to finish the series but missed shots and lost. At the Sixers dome I think we ran out of energy. I played poorly and we needed everybody to play good. That´s why it was a tough but fair loss.
You played a season with the RheinStars Koeln (ProB) averaging 5.6ppg, 2.2rpg, FGP: 38.5%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 80.0%. You came late and never found your grove. How tough was this season for you? Were there too many guys that needed the ball in their hands?
No I don’t think so. Cologne was just a tough year for me mentally. I signed with Elchingen in the beginning of the season but they went bankrupt a couple of days before the first game. Because it happened so sudden every other team had their roster already so I just went back to Berlin and started to practice with Berlin Braves. So for 3 months I had no real game rhythm. Then cologne gave me a chance in December and the team was already fighting to not to move down. I think I put to much pressure on myself that’s why I played a really bad season. They gave me enough chances but I couldn’t really use them. But again I really enjoyed my team in cologne that’s been probably the most professional team I ever played for with a great infrastructure plus the big gym that you can use 24/7 was a dream for a gym rat like me.
You played the 2020-2021 season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz (ProB) averaging 9.2ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 39.5%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 65.9%. Did you see success in the air for this organization? Only 2 years later they landed in the Pro A. You had some huge games early, but then couldn´t find consistency. What positives could you still get out of this season?
What I saw in Koblenz is that they invested a lot of money and forced their way into the Pro A no matter what. The only positive thing I could get out of my time in Koblenz that I had great teammates a physio and an assistant coach. I’m still in contact with some of them and especially CJ Oldham who was my roommate helped me a lot that season and these are what I´m grateful for during my time in Koblenz.
You played 1 Pro A season with FC Schalke 04 averaging 5.0ppg, 1.0rpg. You showed some moments of real success with your game. But still why don´t you think were you able to play more seasons in the Pro A? That’s a great question. I thought I proved myself that I definitely belong in the Pro a and had a good stretch while being a starter for Schalke. Unfortunately we didn’t had a good season as a team and because of corona the season got cut short. But if I would’ve had the chance to play Pro A after my season in Schalke and landed in a good situation I would’ve definitely had a good season.
You had 2 solid seasons with Pro B team EN Baskets Schwelm. How do you remember these years playing for head coach Falk Moeller? Do you feel like your game had all the freedom it needed?
Of course I remember these years. My goal was always to play as high as possible and Omar Rahim And Falk Moeller gave me the chance. I definitely enjoyed my 2 years there and I will always be thankful of the trust and faith Falk and Omar gave me. The fans and the community is one of the best ones in the league and I always enjoy coming back and playing there. I wish the club, Falk and Omar who now works for Leverkusen nothing but the best.
You also played 2 seasons with the WWU Baskets Muenster (Regionalliga) averaging 6.6ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 76.8% and 10.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 45.0%, FT: 64.3%%. How valuable were these 2 years playing for Gotz Rohdewald and Philip Kappenstein?
Muenster was my first team outside of Berlin I played that means it was also my first time living away from home. So I never played for Götz just for Phillip Kappenstein and man these years were one of the best 2 years in my life. The whole team plus Kappenstein and assistant Schnicks I consider them as family. We still arev in contact. I’m still in Münster every year to visit some teammates. These 2 years definitely had an impact in my life on and off the court. These years I wouldn’t trade them for nothing.
You began your basketball career with Alba Berlin. Did you have a mentor in those early years? I think I had many mentors during my career such as Courtney Belger, Anselm Hartmann, Andrej König, Jan König. Ron Mvouika. But when we just talk about Alba I would say Josip Peric was one in my NBBL years and Sebastian Fuelle and Steven Monse too. But Enrico Kufuor is probably the one If I could only choose one.
You were teammates with NBA player Moritz Wagner. He comes over as a very funny guy. What was your fondest moment with him on and off the court? I had some great moments with Moritz. What just stood out for me from the beginning was his competitiveness and his willingness to get better. Of the court he is the same person you see on TV a fun outgoing guy. So I definitely enjoyed his company on and off the court.
Who was the toughest player that you battled in the career that reached the NBA or Euroleague?
I played Dennis Schröder & Daniel Theis in my first NBBL game and they were a deadly combination back than already. Maodo Lo is definitely the toughest player to guard for me. I played him when he still was playing for central hoops and even now in the summers we workout together sometimes and it’s always a big challenge.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Let me give my top 8 Anselm Hartmann, Courtney Belger, Ron Mvouika, CJ Oldham, Aleks Dimitrijevic, Jakob Fischer, Josip Peric and Dallis Johnson
Please list your NBA and German Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time? NBA: LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson German: Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schröder, Detlef Schrempf, Ademola Okulaja
Aytor Alberto (188-G-2000, college: Cairn) is a 25 year old 188cm guard that grew up in Curacao that played his second pro season for Snaefell (Iceland-Division I) averaging 20/3/2 stats. He split his rookie season between Breidablik Kopavogur (Iceland-Division 1) averaging 18.0ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.7apg, 2FGP: 39.2%, 3FGP: 39.0%, FT: 80.3%, in Jan.’25 moved to Kufstein Towers (Austria-2.Bundesliga) averaging 11.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 64.0%. He received early basketball experience at Victory Rock Preparatory School in Florida and then played a season at Clark Summit University (NCAA3). He then balled 3 years at Cairn University (NCAA3) and had his breakout season in his last season averaging : 21.3ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 42.8%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 77.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball
Your 25 years old and have the Dutch citizenship and played many years in USA, played in Austria last season and this season in Iceland. How blessed do you feel to be able to be a professional player? I am actually from the Caribbean island called Curacao. I have a Dutch passport due to Holland being a governing body of Curacao. Never lived or been in Holland excluding connection flights. And to answer the question, I feel very blessed to be a professional basketball player and travelling the world and experiencing new countries like Iceland, Austria, and also China last summer. I never take any of it for granted. All of this wouldn’t be possible without my unwavering faith in God.
With everything that you have experienced so far in your young life, what has been the coolest experience for you off the court?
It would have to be last summer when I went to China to play in the Wild ball league over there. Just the fact that I never thought I would’ve gone to Asia, and to see how basketball took me over there and see the difference of culture and way of living was phenomenal. It’s like a different world out there.
Let’s talk a little about your game. You’re a 188cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description? Pretty much everybody gives me the Ja Morant or Russell Westbrook comparison from the NBA. After starting to play in Europe and watching a lot of Euroleague 2 years ago, I see a lot of Matthew Strazel and Sylvain Francisco in my game.
You’re a guy that fills the stat sheet well. Talk a little about your offensive strengths? Your attacking the rim really stands out.
Yes, I feel like my ability to break down defenses from the perimeter and get paint touches have translated at every level that I played at so far in my career. I think that’s because I am very athletic and know how to change pace well. My ability to make floaters in the paint at a highly efficient rate is also a strength of mine, which is a counter whenever teams try to take away my 3 ball and also me getting all the way to the rim.
You really have scored the ball well the last 3 years. The first few years at Cairn, you couldn’t show that. Are you a 3 level scorer yet or still working on that? I am definitely a 3-level scorer, but I am still working on refining my game to keep making it more polished and efficient as possible as I continue to climb levels.
You also have been a solid 3 point shooter the last few years. Do you see yourself eclipsing the 40% barrier in the future? That’s definitely a goal of mine and I think with my work ethic I will eventually eclipse that barrier in the future Lord willingly. Last season in Iceland playing for Breidablik I shot 39% so I know it is for sure possible.
What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become? In terms of on-ball defense I feel like I can stay in front and pressure anybody at this point along with my athletic ability allowing me to get chase down blocks. I consider myself very elite at on-ball defense. I think my area of improvement is more so off-ball rotations which I tend to fall asleep sometimes when I get tired during games.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player? My biggest focus is making my 3 point shot as elite as possible and also to continue to watch a lot of film to improve my decision making as a playmaker.
Your playing your first season with Snaefell (Iceland-Division I). What kind of an experience has it been? How has your game progressed? To be honest it has been very frustrating just because I am very competitive and I hate losing. I have not experienced this much losing in a while so that’s what stresses me out the most. I also was battling UCL strain in my right elbow which is on my shooting arm that I sustained back in November. It is now pretty much healed but early on after the injury I started to struggle shooting the 3 ball because I had to temporarily tweak the way I shot because of the injury, but thankfully I am not dealing with that anymore and this is the best my body has felt in a while.
What has it been like being teammates with Jakorie Smith? How do you guys compliment each other best? Me and Jakorie compliment each other very well. My game is based on attacking and his is on jump shooting, so he is able to space the floor very well whenever I’m attacking.
Iceland is a dream. What have you enjoyed besides the swimming pool culture? What have you discovered while exploring the nature there? I love seeing the northern lights. It’s an experience I honestly will never get tired of.
Last season you split time with Breidablik Kopavogur (Iceland-Division 1) averaging 18.0ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.7apg, 2FGP: 39.2%, 3FGP: 39.0%, FT: 80.3%, in Jan.’25 moved to Kufstein Towers (Austria-2.Bundesliga) averaging 11.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 64.0%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? I think my wake up call came the first day I landed in Iceland and I was dropped off at my apartment by my coach. I think it was because that was my first time ever being in Europe so it hit me hard.
In Austria you lost a tough 3 game playoff series to the Mustangs where the team scored only 41 points in game 3. What did you learn from that series? I learned how hard it is to win a championship at any level. Playing in Austria and also specifically in that series I learned how tactical and strategic basketball can be. That whole series felt like we were playing chess rather than checkers as the saying goes.
Before playing in the States, you trained and lived in Curacao. I guess that was like paradise living in the Caribbean. How vital was this special experience for your game and person? It was definitely a good experience especially off the court. I think for my game it helped me develop all areas of my game since the playing style over there is very free flowing so I was able to have a lot of freedom early to figure out what my game is, and ultimately expand on that as my career progressed.
You began your college career in USA at Clark Summit University (NCAA3) averaging 6.4ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 79.2% in your last season. How vital was this first NCAA season under Brian Deschaine? What could your game gain from this season? I think my fit at Clarks Summit University was not a good fit all honestly, which is why I ended up transferring from there.
You then moved to Cairn University (NCAA3) in 2021. How tough were the first 2 years there where you averaged 11 minutes your first season and in your second season your minutes dipped to 7. What kind of a player did you become mentally in those 2 years? Mentally I was always the same confident player, it was more so me just dealing with injuries those first two years at Cairn that a lot of people from the outside looking in did not know of. I had broken my right foot in a pre season game in my first year at Cairn which caused me to miss most of the season, and I was dealing with an inflamed patella the following year which never really allowed me to fully be on the court and do what I do. Mentally I stayed confident just because I knew what I can do and I knew the circumstances then was not because of my skills or ability.
You had many great games at Cairn like hitting Gwynedd Mercy for 34 points and also Notre Dame (MD) for 29 points and the University of the Valley Forge for 28 points. What was your fondest moment as a senior there on the court? 3 moments that come to mind immediately that I consider my fondest were when the month of January where I averaged somewhere close to 30 ppg while winning games, receiving national attention after the season becoming a D3data All-star which I was considered one of the best D3 players in nation, and also scoring 23 points against University of Maryland-Eastern Shore, which solidified to me that I could compete at all levels.
How did head coach Jason Connell groom and prepare you best for a professional career? He taught me the importance of being a professional in all areas of life, not just the basketball court. His championship pedigree taught me that whatever I want to achieve in life requires discipline, hard work, and an unwavering faith in God.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Josh Forker? I did. Josh Forker was an exceptional defender, probably one of the best in Cairn history, but even he would tell you that nobody could stop me one on one. This also contributed to my confidence heading into real games, because if the best defender in our conference struggles to guard me (which he was considered as at the time), then I have nothing to worry about.
Who was the best player that you ever battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Nobody I ever played in the NCAA reached the NBA, but I have faced Scottie Barnes back in high school who currently plays for the Toronto Raptors.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? In no particular order I would say Niven Hart, Jamal Mccoy, Jonathan Mulmore, Derian Bradford, and Jakorie Smith.
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time for you?
My NBA Mount Rushmore is Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry. Who is your GOAT? My GOAT is Michael Jordan.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone? I actually have not seen the classic Coming To America or the sequel.
Frankie Fidler (201-F-2003, college: Michigan St.) is a 23 year old 201cm forward that played his rookie season overseas with Rigas Zelli (Latvia-LBL) averaging (21.7ppg), Reb-4 (7.3rpg), Assists-4 (4.6apg), Steals-2 (1.6spg), FGP: 55.6%, 3PT-3 (40.0%), FT-5 (93.4%); in the ENBL averaged Score-3 (23.1ppg), 5.7rpg, 3.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 88.9%; and in the Latvian-Estonian Basketball League averaged Score-2 (21.1ppg), 6.4rpg, 2.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT-3 (87.0%). He began his basketball career at Bellevue West High school and then played 3 seasons at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (NCAA) averaging 12.8ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 82.4%, 14.7ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 27.9%, FT: 88.7% and 20.2ppg, 6.2rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 85.3%. He then finished at Michigan State University (NCAA) averaging 6.7ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 20.7%, FT: 83.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the 2025-2026 ENBL season.
Thanks Frankie for talking to germanhoops.com. Your played your rookie season overseas with Rigas Zelli (Latvia-LBL). What kind of an experience has it been and what have you enjoyed most about it? You know I was optimistic when I first heard where I was going for my rookie season and it was nothing short of a great experience. I was able to really understand the European lifestyle and the thing I’ve enjoyed the most is adapting to the culture and finding what things I can use from my life back home out here.
What was it like been like being teammates with Janis Berzins? He won 6 titles in different countries and has ACB experience. Was he like a mentor for you early on?
It’s been great. He’s been a great mentor because of his experience all across Europe and I rely on him a lot to answer my questions not only about basketball but about life as well. He hasn’t only been a great teammate, but a friend as well and I’m glad I was able to cross paths with him so early in my career.
You have played excellent averaging 23,0ppg in the ENBL and 21,0ppg in the Latvian league and filled the stat sheet very well. What do you believe was your secret to having been able not to preform solidly but potently? I think being able to play free and be myself has been vital for my success which is a testament to my teammates and coaches. Our playstyle fit my game and allowed me to play in space and either create for myself or my teammates. At the end of the day though, it’s about confidence and believing in yourself when you step foot on the court. Believing that no one can stop me from being me.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward that can fill the stat sheet with ease. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would come to mind?
I’d probably compare myself as I’m a mixture of Jaden McDaniels or Max Strus. I think I have the ability as my career moves forward to be an elite defender and a knockdown shooter. A true 3&D player. Right now though, I think I’m more of an on the ball player, which I wouldn’t say I play like them but I do watch a lot of film on the ways James Harden and Devin Booker like to score, so implementing some of their styles into my game have been a key of mine.
You have always filled the stat well. How big is versatility a staple of your game? I think it’s a huge part of my game on both sides of the ball. Um offensively, being able to play you know position 2 through 4 is big for our team. Being able to attack different types of mismatches and then that’s the same for defense. Being able to switch 1-5 and actually stopping the offensive player is a big deal. Anybody can switch but can you not get scored on is the important thing.
You have shot the ball very well in your career starting from the NCAA until now. How have you observed the development of your three point shot? Where do you see it now and to what level do you still want to bring it to?
Yea over my career I’ve actually tweaked my shot a few times to find what suits me and feels comfortable for me. I actually think this season is the best I’ve felt about my shot and I only want to keep improving it, which I believe starts with how fast can I get a catch and shoot off, then how fast can I do it off the dribble. After that, moving shots. How fast can I get my feet set and on balance to feel comfortable to shoot. There are a lot of ways to keep improving your shot and I want to take it a step at a time but I know that reps are the most important thing for me. How many reps does it take for you to make something second nature, can you do it with your eyes closed, can you do it when you’re dead tired, etc.. A lot of things go into being a great shooter and I want to attack those as early as I can in my career so when I’m at my best, I won´t have anything to slow me down.
How would you classify your defensive game right now? What kind of a defender do you still want to become?
I think I have potential to be an elite defender for all 40 minutes of a game. Right now, I have lapses on defense especially off the ball which I’m conscious about. I’m working with my coaches through watching film and breaking down scenarios to be focused and in stance every second of every defensive possession. I think I need to offer more physicality as well, especially here in Europe it´s important to know when you can use your hands or use your body to create contact.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? I try to work on everything when I can. I think the most important things right now are just keeping myself focused on the defensive end and reading the floor better on offense. Both things that come with film study and being conscious about improving.
You played at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (NCAA) form 2021-2024 and improved your scoring and rebound average every year. How did your overall game develop under Derrin Hansen and Chris Crutchfield?
I give a lot of credit to Coach Hansen for allowing me to be myself my first year in college. Letting me play through freshman mistakes, which instilled confidence in my ability to become who I am now. Coach Crutch just took my game to another level. He coached some elite guys at Oklahoma (Buddy Hield, Trae Young) so there was no reason for me to not listen to what he was saying to me and what he thought the best ways for me to be great were. He is one of few coaches that having a relationship during the season mattered with. Yeah we butted heads sometimes, but we are both competitors with the desire to sacrifice whatever was needed to win. I truly appreciate Crutch and the time I played for him, he’s still a great mentor for me that I reach out to with any problems I have because he’s been around the game for a while and I trust what he tells me.
You had 3 amazing games where you had 2 buzzer beaters and one game winner against Kansas City, Denver and North Dakota. What game had the biggest meaning to you?
Oh man, definitely the North Dakota game just because it was in our conference tournament and just felt like a magical moment for me. I actually missed I think 2 or 3 game winners that season so I put some internal pressure on myself that I was still that same clutch player as I was my freshman year.That Denver one was special tho man, I think it was senior night. It was a tough season with not a lot of wins on our record. Idk the whole sequence was special. I scored like 11 points in the last 75 seconds or something and then capped it off with the game winner. I felt like that was the first like real defining moment of my career, like who I could become.
What was it like being teammates with your brother Louis? What kind of a relationship do you guys share?
Good question because it wasn’t always butterflies and sunshine being on the same team as him. We actually butted heads a lot on the court but I think that’s how it goes in a competitive environment, especially with family. But I mean off the court it was great, having my big brother around again was a dream come true (we played together in high school too). Being able to share laughs with him and build new memories was great and I am very blessed and thankful we had that opportunity to share the court again.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Marquel Sutton? He’s a problem to guard 1-1 because of his size and strength but I ended up figuring him out at one point of our time on the same team, so I’d say the total record is pretty even but I’ve definitely got more wins hahaha
You played one more season with Michigan State University (NCAA) averaging 6.7ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 20.7%, FT: 83.9%. What kind of an experience was this? You didn´t have the kind of role like you had the previous years, but reached the NCAA Elite 8.
Yea I mean it was a great experience with the team, I think the bond we shared on and off the court is ultimately what helped us win so many games and get as far as we did in March. As for me, I knew I was going to have to sacrifice something moving up a level. I didn’t know it was going to be as much as I did, but I mean I´m not mad about how it played out. We won a championship together and built lifelong memories while doing it so I’ll be forever grateful for my time at Michigan State under Izzo and for the fans, who really made the games super enjoyable to play in. Go Green!
What memories do you have of that Elite 8 run beating Ole Miss and losing to Auburn? What was your fondest moment in that run?
So that was my first time playing in March madness so I think the whole vibe it gave off is something I will always remember. I’m getting chills just thinking about the intensity, the atmosphere, and the pressure that was on us because you got 1 game to move on every round. You don´t get a second chance. My favorite moment had to be closing out the New Mexico State game. We weren’t playing good all game and I was able to check in and create a spark late in the second half to help us win. The environment of that game was incredible. Something I’ll never forget.
How did head coach Tom Izzo give you that last push to help you become a professional player?
Yeah coach was very tough on me, which was something to deal with during the season especially when I was trying to find my own rhythm and my own flow throughout games. But I think the most important thing I learned from him was what it took to win at a high level. The amount of focus, intensity, and togetherness needed to win championships is crazy high and coach taught me how to maximize that for myself.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? That’s tough but I would say Jaden Ivey at Purdue my freshman year. He looked the part physically and was so athletic his sophomore year so it wasn’t surprising he left and got drafted that year.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? That’s tough man, I’ve had some great teammates over my career on different teams. Um I would have to start with my highschool facilitator Chucky Hepburn, we had a different type of chemistry on the court and he was one of best friends growing up. Tony Osburn and Marquel Sutton at Omaha, both are some of my closest friends to this day. I would have to say Tre Holloman at Michigan State, he helped me the most with my transition to playing for Izzo and am forever grateful for that relationship. Last but not least, its a toss up but probably Nick Sanders at State. He was the ultimate locker room guy. Didn’t play much but man could he put a smile on your face. Miss that guy!
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Lebron (front and center), MJ, Shaq, Steph Curry
Who is your GOAT? Lebron EASYYYYY
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I actually haven’t seen the sequel to that. I’ll have to check it out though!
Benjamin Vazquez (187-G-2002) is a 23 year old 187cm guard that was born in Sevilla, Spain. He played basketball in his young years in Spain. But he decided to go abroad in the last 2 years playing in Ireland and Denmark. In the 2024-2025 season he played with the Carrick Cruisers (Ireland-Division 1) averaging 17.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, 2PT: 55.2%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 68.0% an dlast season played with EBS Holbaek-Stenhus (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 7.3ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 38.3%, 3PT: 22.5%, FT: 68.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Benjamin for talking to germanhoops.comWhere are you at the moment?
Right now I’m in Denmark, making the most of the offseason. I’m working on the areas of my game that I want to improve, training every day, and also enjoying time with my girlfriend. We’re trying to travel a little, relax, and enjoy the offseason before getting ready for next season but aproaching the time to improve as a player
You’re a 23-year-old guard from Spain and have played the last 2 seasons in Ireland and Denmark. It seems like you realized early in your career that playing abroad is better. Have you turned your back on Spain?
I wouldn’t say I’ve turned my back on Spain at all. Spain will always be my home and where I learned the game. However, the opportunities, trust, and respect that I’ve found abroad have been difficult to compare with what was available to me in Spain at that moment in my career. Playing abroad has allowed me to grow as a player and as a person. That said, I would love for our paths to cross again in the future.
You are very interested in playing in Germany. What makes the German market so attractive to you? I think Germany would be a great fit for my profile as a player. I’m no longer a rookie and next season would be my third year playing professionally outside Spain. I’ve gained valuable experience, especially in decision-making and adapting to different basketball cultures. Combined with my style of play, I believe I could fit very well into German basketball.
Have you ever been to Germany? Is there a city you would like to visit most? Actually, I visited Berlin this season with my club, Holbæk-Stenhus. We went on a basketball trip and had the opportunity to visit Alba Berlin’s training facilities. We spent a few great days there, and both our U19 boys’ and girls’ teams played games against Alba Berlin’s youth teams. It was a fantastic experience and gave me a closer look at German basketball culture.
How have you followed German basketball in the last years? What do you believe has made Germany the top basketball address in Europe in the last four years?
I think many basketball fans started paying even more attention to German basketball after Germany won the FIBA World Cup. The success of the national team, strong domestic clubs, excellent player development, and the ability to stay competitive internationally have all contributed to Germany’s rise over the last few years.
Is there a German player currently that you see as a role model for any young player?
Maybe the obvious answer would be Dennis Schröder because of everything he has achieved, but I don’t think all the attention should go only to him. Germany has produced a lot of talented young players in recent years, and that’s one of the reasons why German basketball is in such a great moment.
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 187cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a EuroLeague player, who would best fit the description?
I think it would be a bit funny to compare myself directly to a EuroLeague player at this stage of my career. However, there are several guards that I enjoy watching and try to learn from. Because I’m not the tallest guard, I pay a lot of attention to players like Facundo Campazzo, Nico Laprovittola, Mike James and Shane Larkin. Their ability to create for teammates, score in different ways and control the game is something I really admire.
You’re a guard that fills the stat sheet well. What are your biggest strengths on offense?
Even though it wasn’t my strongest statistical category this season, my three-point shot on and off the dribble, is an important weapon offensively. But if I had to choose my biggest strength, it would be my first step and my ability to absorb contact and finish around the basket. I also take pride in my passing ability. I enjoy making difficult passes and creating opportunities for my teammates, and I believe court vision is one of my strengths.
Talk about the development of your three point shot. It was under 30% the last 2 seasons. What steps do you still need to do to become more consistent?
I understand the numbers, but I think they don’t always tell the full story. My three-point shot is actually one of my main offensive weapons and something I trust a lot. In Ireland I finished the season around 30%, but I was also one of the players taking the most three-point attempts on my team. At one point during the season I was around 46.5% from three and among the best shooters in the league, so I’ve shown that I can be very efficient from that range. In Denmark I also had games where I was very efficient from three, like 7/10 in Ireland in one game and 6/8 here in Denmark, which shows the level I can reach when I’m in rhythm. I know shooting is about consistency and also about rhythm, confidence, and decision-making across the whole season. This year my percentages went down, even though in some situations I took fewer threes than in the past. What I’m focused on now is becoming more consistent game to game and improving my shot selection and balance, so I can maintain a higher level over a full season. But I have no doubt that shooting is one of my biggest strengths offensively and something I will continue to build on.
Talk about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?
I’m putting a lot of work into the defensive side of my game. Coaches often tell me that with my physical tools and energy, I should be able to bring a lot of intensity on that end of the floor while staying focused and disciplined. I’m the type of player who dives for loose balls and never gives up on a possession. I also enjoy taking charges and doing the little things that help a team win. Going forward, I want to become an even more complete and reliable defender.
What defensive player do you model your game after?
I enjoy watching players who combine toughness, intelligence and competitiveness. I don’t try to copy just one player, but I really admire guards who take pride in defending and doing the dirty work for their teams. Those are the kind of players I like to learn from.
How developed are your playmaking skills? What passing guard do you enjoy following most?
Playmaking is one of the strongest parts of my game. I’ve always enjoyed making my teammates better and creating opportunities for others. If I had to pick one player, it would probably be Facundo Campazzo. His creativity, competitiveness and ability to make difficult passes look easy are things I really enjoy watching.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? Right now I’m working a lot on playing off two feet, improving my mid-range finishing, and becoming more efficient in those in-between situations. Of course, I’m also spending a lot of time improving my three-point shooting consistency.
Who were your role models as players when you grew up?
To be honest, I spent most of my childhood playing basketball and other sports with my friends rather than watching a lot of television. But like many players of my generation, I grew up admiring Lebron James.
When and how did you fall in love with basketball?
I’ve been playing basketball since I was five years old. It happened very naturally. Like many kids, my parents signed me up for a sport, and in this case, basketball ended up being my path. You could say it was meant to be hahahahaha
Where did you begin your career and when did you know that you wanted to be a professional player?
I’ve always been very competitive, and sports came naturally to me because I was quick and agile. I never played for one of the biggest youth academies in Spain, so I wasn’t considered one of the top prospects. But I always knew basketball was what I wanted to dedicate my life to. I believed I had talent, and I was always the kind of kid who loved competing in sports. I didn’t know exactly how I would get there, but I was determined to find a way. My coaches always told me that I would have to work harder than everyone else to have a chance, and that’s a mindset I’ve carried with me ever since.
Did you have a mentor growing up? A person that really was key in your early basketball development?
Without a doubt, Tomas Lopez. He became my coach when I was playing U12 basketball. He had previously been a professional player and had a very successful career before a serious injury forced him to retire. He has been incredibly important in my development, not only as a player but also as a person. I have a lot of respect and appreciation for him.
How refreshing was your season in Ireland? You had many different nationalities as teammates. What kind of a player did you become in Ireland? Ireland was a great experience because it exposed me to different basketball cultures and playing styles. It was there that I learned how to be a player with more responsibility, someone who had to create offense, score, and make decisions for the team. It helped me become more confident and comfortable in a leading role. I also really enjoyed my time there because of the community. I grew very fond of the people in the town and the surrounding areas. Everyone was very supportive of basketball, and it makes me really happy to see how much the game is growing there.
You played three seasons in the EBA. How did you see the development of your game there? What kind of a player did you become?
The EBA was a very important stage in my development. It taught me how to compete against experienced players and improved my understanding of the game. It was where I started developing into a more mature guard and learned the importance of consistency, discipline and competing every day, also the culture in the basketball in spain made me to understand the game better.
What are your continued goals as a player? Just reaching the highest levels? Is the Spanish top league ACB or Primera FEB a goal as well?
My goal is to keep improving and compete at the highest level possible. I don’t limit myself to one specific league or country. Of course, playing in leagues such as Primera FEB or another top league would be an honor, but my main focus is becoming the best player I can be. If I continue improving every season, the opportunities will take care of themselves.
Please name your NBA and Spanish Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time?
Robbie Robinson (196-G, college: CSUSB) is a 26 year old 203cm forward from California that played his second season in Portugal and first with Sporting Clube de Portugal Lisboa (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging 7/5/2 and in the Fiba Europe Cup averaged 6.3ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 31.8%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 60.0%. He helped the team win 2 cup titles. He played his rookie season with Galitos-Barreiro (Portugal-Liga Betclic, starting five): 24 games: 14.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT-11 (88.6%). He began his basketball career with Kearny High School in San Diego, California. He then played a season at San Diego City College (JUCO) averaging 15.3ppg, 10.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.7spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 74.6%. He then played 2 seasons at The University of Nevada (NCAA) averaging 2.7ppg, 5.1rpg and 1.0ppg, 3.4rpg. He then played a season at the University of New Orleans (NCAA) averaging 3.4ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.6apg. He then added 2 more seasons at California State University San Bernardino (NCAA2) averaging 8.3ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 60.6%, FT: 65.8% and 14.0ppg, 8.7rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 77.4%. He spoke to eurobasket during the season about basketball.
Thanks Robbie for talking to germanhoops.com. Your played your second professional season and second season in Portugal and first with Sporting Clube de Portugal Lisboa (Portugal-Liga Betclic). Has Portugal become like a second home for you? Portugal has definitely become a second home for me. Portugal and San Diego have a lot of similarities including the people, weather and food. The very first week I was out here I struggled just because it was brand new to me and I never been outside the US before but after I adjusted pretty quickly. Portugal has a special place in my heart and I’m grateful to be able to play here again.
Sporting Clube de Portugal Lisboa (Portugal-Liga Betclic) is battling for the top spot with Benfica Lisabon. The team last won a title in 2023. How big is the hunger to win that next title within the organization? The hunger is huge! The ultimate goal is to win cups and titles. I feel that’s what everybody plays for. I think this years team is more than capable to achieve that goal but it won’t be easy.
Sporting Clube de Portugal Lisboa (Portugal-Liga Betclic) lost the first game by 37 points. How big is the rivalry within both teams?
The rivalry runs deep, losing that first game to Benfica by that many points was embarrassing but also a great learning experience. Beating them in the second time we played each other was eye opening to the whole country I believe. It put everybody on notice that we are the team to beat as well. The gyms are always packed when these two teams play, it’s a great environment and great competition. At the end of the day it’s mutual respect from both teams to each other.
Sporting Clube de Portugal Lisboa (Portugal-Liga Betclic) has many Americans and your putting up solid stats but not as big as last season as a rookie. This season there are more scoring options than last season. How big is efficiency this season for your game?
Efficiency is definitely something I need to keep working on but I know when you move up like I did to a bigger budget team, you will be teammates with players with as much or more talent than yourself. With that you aren’t really required to play 30-35 minutes a game, you come in and do your part. It took some time realizing that because I have been a player where the offense is keyed in on me the last two years but at the end of the day it’s a team game. I do my best to come in the game and make game winning plays and let the rest take care of itself.
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description? If I had to compare myself to an NBA player I would say LaMarcus Aldridge.
You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet with ease. How big is versatility a staple in your game? I think versatility is something my father instilled in me at a very young age. I’ve always been tall but he would have me doing guard ball handling drills, shooting 3s, everything guards would do. Being versatile makes you more valuable I believe. I know I can do a little bit of everything, I’m a 3 level scorer, and pretty good passer. It’s hard to find bigs like that.
You have shot the ball really well from outside the last 3 seasons. Talk about your development of your three pointer now overseas. What kind of a shooter have you become and what kind of a shooter do you still want to become?
Shooting 3s has been a huge part of my game I’ve been working on a lot. I’ve always been able to shoot but never really got opportunities to showcase it due to the rosters I’ve been on. Being a big who can shoot raises your value for teams and I try to key in on that. I’ve become a big who can stretch the floor for teams and can shoot it at a high clip. I want to become a 40% shooter from 3, become an ultimate knock down shooter.
You also are a very ambitious defender. What kind of a defender are you and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? I would say I’m a defender who can guard the 2-5, I’m 6’8 but I can guard bigs who are bigger or heavier than me. Playing at Nevada is really where I took pride in defense, being an ‘undersized’ big I had to separate myself from the others. I believe my first year at Nevada I was the best statistically on defense. I want to become a guy who can guard all positions, you don’t seem many guys who can do that.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player? The areas of my game that I am working on the most would be my 3 point shooting and my footwork in the post. I need to clean up those areas and not speeding myself up. Being patient and making the right reads on both sides of the ball.
You played a season at San Diego City College (JUCO) averaging 15.3ppg, 10.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.7spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 74.6%. Every player that I have interviewed that played Juco have reported that it was a real grind, but one they wouldn’t have traded the world with. How was the experience for you? My experience at San Diego city college was a great one. Being able to stay home one more year was a blessing. It’s funny not many people know I took a year off from school after I graduated high school. Reason behind that was because I didn’t know if I was going continue to play. I only had one scholarship offer to Humbolt state university and I wasn’t ready mentally or physically. San Diego city brought that love for the game back to me and I really played with a chip on my shoulder because of the year I took off a lot of people wrote me off.
How valuable was head coach Mitch Charlens in your early basketball development? How did he help you make the jump to the NCAA? Coach Mitch was a coach who really cared and gave it to straight every time. Didn’t sugar coat anything, had coaches from all over the country coming to see me. I got nothing but love and respect for him.
You then played 2 seasons at the University of Nevada (NCAA) and played 54 games, but never averaged more than 2,7ppg for Steve Alford. How tough was this experience and what positives could you gain from it? Playing at Nevada was a reality check for me, at first it was a tough experience especially being away from home the first time. I had to grow up quick. Steve Alford is a great coach, always put academics first, showed me tough love but it came from a good place. He showed me that basketball is a business, you have to produce and be a good person. I take some of the lessons he taught me into my overseas career.
You then moved to the University of New Orleans (NCAA), but played only 7 games averaging 3.4ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.6apg. You played good minutes early and then your season ended. How tough was it for your season to end so early? Honestly I wasn’t ready for New Orleans mentally, it’s completely opposite of what I am used to. Being the only west coast kid on the team it was hard to adjust, with getting injured and only playing 7 games it was tough. I didn’t know what my recovery time was going be or what school I was going to go to next. I did make great relationships while I was there and ended up graduating with my bachelors from New Orleans but it was bittersweet leaving there.
You then moved to California State University San Bernardino (NCAA2) averaging 8.3ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 60.6%, FT: 65.8% and 14.0ppg, 8.7rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 77.4%. You made a big jump in your game in your second season. How did your game grow there? I signed to CSUSB late actually, they had their team set already but just needed a big man. I met with Coach Newman on a visit and he was aware of the versatility I brought but told me he didn’t necessarily need all of my game. He needed an inside presence for that year and I understood. I would say my game grew because I was given the keys to the team. I was finally able to showcase my full skillset my second year and I just ran with it. I appreciate Coach Gus letting me run free.
You reached the NCAA 2 Final 4 twice. Which run do you remember being the most memorable for you? The most memorable out of the 2 runs to the final four would be the second a lot. A lot of people wrote off CSUSB because we only had 3 returners and a brand new coaching staff. We shocked a lot of people that year.
You had many great games CSU San Bernardino like netting 23 points in an exciting 75-73 win over Chico State. What was your fondest moment there?
I would have to say my fondest moment at CSUSB would be finding out I was an All American my second year. Going from a second team all league player to one of the best players in the country was surreal to me. I was really proud myself for sticking with it and getting my masters a month later was the best accomplishment of my life.
How did head coach Andy Newman and Gus Argenal give you that last push to prepare you for a professional career? It’s funny because Newman and Gus are two completely different types of coaches but they told me ‘don’t be a problem’ ‘always be on time’ ‘be a great teammate ‘ and most important ‘be coachable’ I still talk to both coaches from time to time. They both have had a huge impact on my life and I’m happy to see them both coaching at the division 1 level.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Mahmoud Fofana? I don’t think we ever got the chance to play one on one but I see he’s been doing well at Cal state Northridge under Coach Newman. He’s going be a great pro next year.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?
Sam Merrill, I think he’s with the Cleveland Cavs now, man he’s always been able to shoot the ball at a very high clip. Didn’t surprise me when I saw he was in the NBA.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Jazz Johnson, Jalen Harris, Khristion Courseault, Malik Morgan. Rog Stein
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan. Shaquille O’Neal and Tim Duncan
Who is your GOAT?
LeBron James is the GOAT
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone? I have not seen the sequel to coming to America. Sounds like you don’t recommend it.
Tom Quarry (201-F-1999, college: Johns Hopkins) is a 26 year old 201cm forward from Bensalem, Pennsylvania that completed his third professional season and first with BBC US Heffingen (Luxembourg-Nationale 2) averaging 26,7ppg, 7,5rpg, 2,2apg and 1,7spg. Last season he played with KK Euro Nickel 2005 Kavadarci (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 10.8ppg, 4.9rpg, FGP: 57.3%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 80.5%. He played his rookie season overseas with SC Vasco da Gama Porto (Portugal-Proliga) averaging 17.1ppg, 6.4rpg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT-2 (49.2%), FT: 84.0%. He began his basketball career at Father Judge High School and then played at John Hopkins University (NCAA3) from 2018-2023 an din his last 2 seasons averaged 13.1ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 80.7% and 14.6ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 83.9%. He spoke to germanhoops,com during the season about his basketball career.
After playing in Portugal and North Macedonia, now your playing your first season with BBC US Heffingen (Luxembourg-Nationale 2) What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about it?
It has been a wonderful experience so far. Luxembourg is a great place to live and play basketball. I’ve really enjoyed playing for Heffingen and becoming a part of the community. I live in the town right near the gym, so I get to interact with many of our supporters in my daily life, which is very rewarding and really makes playing in front of them even more fun. When I first got here, everyone told me that this club is like a big family, and I think most clubs in the world would say that, but when I experienced the support, enthusiasm, and selflessness that our supporters pour into the club, I knew it was the truth.
You’re living close to many countries like Germany, Holland, Belgium, France Etc. Have you been able to explore a bit on off days?
Yes, I love to travel and explore. Luxembourg is actually the 20th country in Europe that I’ve been to, and I wish I had visited sooner. It has so many scenic views and landscapes, I’m always impressed. My brother lives in Ireland with his wife so I’ve been to Dublin to see them and they’ve come and visited me here which is really great. I’ve also been able to go to Germany and Belgium since their borders are very close to Heffingen, and I’d like to go to Amsterdam even though I haven’t yet. I’ve been to Metz and I’ve been to Paris twice since I’ve been here and I really loved travelling in France. I’m a big football fan and was able to see a Champions League match at the Parc des Princes, which was amazing.
The team is having a very good season. It has only lost 3 games. What has been the secret to the success?
We are very focused on going one game at a time and doing everything it takes to win. We play freely in Coach Kreps’ system and are always encouraging each other to play harder and more together than our opponent. I really value our team’s selfless commitment to collective improvement. We are a strong unit that is always trying to find solutions during the game, and when we do make mistakes, we resolve to do better the next play, for the team, for our club.
Do you see the opportunity for a title? Yes, we want to win every game left on our schedule. It will take effort and sacrifice, and we’ll have to put everything into achieving it. The games are there for us to be won, but we have to be focused and prepared for each game we have left.
You have an interesting teammate with Austin Parker who is in the Air Force and is older and playing his first time as a pro. How much potential does he still have at his age? Austin is a great player and it is amazing this is his first time playing as a pro. He does so many things well and can put anyone on a poster at any moment in the game. I think he has immense potential; he’s so skilled and athletic, but the best thing about him is that he’s a great teammate and a great guy to be around. I think those things in combination with his ability will give him a long career in basketball.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description? I’m not sure, I’ve had to play a few different roles since I’ve been playing in Europe and the style of basketball is very different. This year, I’d probably describe my role as more of a Shooting Guard so maybe Kon Knueppel. He’s a very efficient shooter with a quick release so I’d like to think there’s some comparative attributes there.
You’re a player that can score and rebound really well. What other attributes does your game have on the offensive end?
I feel like I am a really good decision maker on offense. Working for the best shot for the team, passing up good shots to create a great shot was a big philosophy of my team in college and I think it represents my overall basketball philosophy very well. Not forcing and not letting the defense dictate the quality of your looks on offense is one of the hardest things to do in basketball, but all the best teams who win do it. Moving the ball and trusting each other is so important so I try to encourage that through my actions on offense and I think I have the basketball IQ to do that really well and get tons of high-percentage looks.
Talk about the development of your three pointer. You eclipsed 40% at John Hopkins and in Portugal and this season your at 38%. How big of a weapon is your three and can you become a stable 40% shooter down the road?
I think being able to shoot makes me really hard to guard, other teams have to choose how they’re going to play against me and if they overcommit to stopping me from the three, I’m able to get downhill and score and make plays that way. For someone as tall as I am, shooting is really an X-factor that can allow you to score more and win more, and that’s why I’ve always treated it as such an important part of my game. I love to shoot, I shoot threes, free throws, midrange, floaters, every day in my workouts and for me, shooting is really enjoyable, it’s my favorite pastime. I’d love to shoot 40 percent or higher for the rest of my career, that’d be great, but during the game I’m just thinking is this is a good shot, can I make this shot, and get us 3 more points, and if the answer is yes, then I shoot it and don’t worry too much about the percentages. You’re going to have good shooting games and poor shooting games, being able to trust the work you put in to keep shooting is the real prize.
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’ve had to guard many different positions since I’ve started playing basketball and I think I’ve improved in my ability to guard all of them. Previously, I was guarding a lot of forwards and centers so my positioning and my timing to block and affect shots had to improve. This year, I’m covering guards mostly and I’ve gotten more steals this year than I’ve ever gotten. I’d like to improve guarding quicker players because I think I’d be even more valuable if I can consistently guard the shiftiest point guards and the quickest shooting guards, especially at the higher levels in European basketball.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to move up the ranks overseas?
I’d say my focus when I’m working out now is shot creation. It’s a lot of dribbling, footwork, and body control alone in the gym and in practice so that when I’m playing against defenders during the game, I’m able to find windows to get my shot off no matter what. I’m always watching basketball trying to learn from good players and there’s so much good content available now online, it’s really a great time to be working on my game.
Last season you played with KK Euro Nickel 2005 Kavadarci (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 10.8ppg, 4.9rpg, FGP: 57.3%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 80.5% What kind of an experience was that for you. The team lost quite a few close games. It was a great experience for me and I have a lasting respect for the people of North Macedonia and their basketball culture. Our team had four import players so the shots and playing time are more evenly distributed and the games are always very competitive. This is good because it really makes every game full of pressure and important to win, so I was able to grow so much personally and as a leader there. We did lose a few close games but we also won a few close ones too and those are some of my best memories. Knocking down 2 free throws with 5 seconds left to win at home in front of 1000 ardent supporters, it’s an experience I would dream about when I was young playing in my driveway.
You played your rookie season with SC Vasco da Gama Porto (Portugal-Proliga) averaging 17.1ppg, 6.4rpg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT-2 (49.2%), FT: 84.0%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
Playing for Vasco da Gama was such an honor. The club was founded more than 100 years ago and the people cared so much about their team, it made me incredibly proud to wear their jersey during my rookie season. I did not know what to expect living outside the United States, I had never done that before for any real extended period of time, but it was incredible. Porto is probably my favorite city on Earth and my teammates from my time there are some of the coolest people I know. I’m still very invested in the club’s success, I watch all of the games and wish the best for them always. I spent Christmas that year in my apartment alone and was able to FaceTime with my family, whom I really love spending time with, so I’d say not being able to be with them physically for the first time was a reality check of just how far away I was from home.
You had that incredible 36 point game in your pro debut. Is that a game that you will never forget? What memories do you have of that game?
Yes, I will never forget that game. I was pretty nervous for my first professional game, and I didn’t know exactly what to expect. As the game started however, I think I just forgot to be anxious and my teammates kept finding my open for threes and I kept hitting so it was easy to get into the flow of the game. I made an and-one three at the buzzer of the third quarter and as I was on the ground, the entire stands were shaking as the supporters yelled their famous “Vasco! Vasco! Vasco!” and it couldn’t have been more fulfilling. To see my hard work from all the years I spent playing basketball translated into people in Portugal cheering me on because I was playing well for their team, I could not have been happier in that moment.
You had a great career at Johns Hopkins University (NCAA3) playing 5 years there. Were these some of the best times in your life so far? You ended your career there with 1000 + points and one of the schools top scorers ever. Yes, playing for Johns Hopkins gave me some of the best times of my life and I reminisce on that period often with nothing but great memories. Choosing to go to Johns Hopkins was the best decision I’ve made in my basketball career and it has directly led me to where I am today. Getting to play on a team with 15 of your best friends and for one of the best coaches in the US was nothing short of an actualized dream for me. When I was graduating high school and getting recruited, I wanted to go somewhere the staff believed in me and the team was who I wanted to spend my college years with. Both of those surpassed even my greatest expectations and I look back so grateful that I was able to express myself and become who I always wanted to be, thanks to my teammates and my coaches.
You won 2 Contennial conference titles. Which one was sweeter?
Impossible question to answer, they were both so sweet. My sophomore year, my good friend Conner Delaney, hit the Centennial Conference’s most memorable shot in its history, a buzzer-beater to beat our biggest rival, who was undefeated and the #1 team in the country. My senior year, we got to win at home so maybe I will edge it to that one because we were able to win and cut down our own nets. Getting to play in front of a huge student section, my parents, both my brothers, the year after our entire season was cancelled, was another one of the best experiences of my life.
You had many great games against McDaniel, Gettysburg and Franklin Marshall. What was your fondest moment there? Firstly, I love Goldfarb Gym, our home gym in Baltimore, and I really like all three of these teams’ gyms as well. I always seemed to have really good games against Gettysburg and I developed a personal rivalry with them as my career went on and I don’t really know why. They were always a very competitive team right on our heels so it felt great to always beat them. My fondest memory was probably getting a technical after getting a steal and a dunk at home against Gettysburg when I was a senior. I wasn’t happy I got the technical but I don’t think I’d change anything about the play and I look back on it and laugh.
How did head coach Josh Loeffler groom and prepare you best for a pro career?
How long can I make this answer? Coach Loeffler is one of the best coaches I’ve ever had and even though his basketball acumen and the way he sees the game is elite, I’d say his best qualities are his personability and relatability. He’s someone who makes you always want to play hard, encourage your teammates, and do your absolute best to pay back how much belief he has in you. For me, we share so many of the same interests and he’s someone I loved being around and spending time with, so I credit him for getting the most out of me as a player and helping me improve the most. He believes in his coaching and the players he recruits so much that it almost felt like an inevitability that under him, our team would succeed. He also attracts some of the best coaches in the game to be his assistants because they know he believes in them in the exact same way. Ricky Hernandez, Matt Colpoys, Conor Dow, these guys are so underappreciated and some of the best people out there coaching basketball and deserve so many more plaudits than they get. Every player on our teams while I was at Hopkins worked with these guys who were available all day everyday, and every player got better, and that’s what you can expect from a Loeffler-coached team. That’s what building a culture is, that’s why it’s not just a couple people they coach who have success, it’s every single one. I’m so happy I got to play for Coach Loeffler for 5 years and I’m so proud to tell people that I’m one of his players. I told him at the end of my last year that I think I want to explore playing professionally and he called so many agents and talked to so many people in this world on my behalf and for that, I will always be indebted to him. He really cares about all of his players and all of our lives, and I really couldn’t run out of good things to say about him.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Sidney Thybulle? I don’t think I’ve ever played Sid 1-on-1 honestly, but it would be a very fun game. He actually came to our home game a few weeks ago in Heffingen and it was so great to catch up with him, I’m so glad Hopkins basketball brought us together.
Who was the best player that you ever played against in your life that reached the NBA?
There’s a few now, the area I’m from in the United States is known for producing really good basketball players. In high school, Izaiah Brockington was really good, just so clear that he was better than almost everyone else at that age. He played with the Pelicans and now in the NBL in Australia. Collin Gillespie is having a great season with the Suns, Seth Lundy with the Hawks, Isaiah Wong played for the Jazz and now in Spain. Derrick Jones Jr, Quade Green, Andrew Funk, Eric Dixon, the list goes on!
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
5 best is impossible but I’ll give you my five most underrated from each team I’ve been on:
Father Judge: Drew Riley
Johns Hopkins: Brian Johansson
Vasco da Gama: Ruben Nobre
Tikves: Todor Zlatev
Heffingen: Frank Jacoby
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Lebron, Steph, KD, James Harden
Who is your Goat?
Lebron James
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America movie? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? Didn’t see it! But I love film and Eddie Murphy is hilarious so maybe I’ll watch it tonight.
Justin Stallbohm (182-G-1992) is a 33 year old 182cm guard that just completed his 14th season with the Bona Baskets Limburg. He began his basketball career with Eintracht Frankfurt and played with Limburg in the Regionalliga in 2011. He has played more than 200 plus Regionalliga games in his career. He gave germanhoops.com a season recap.
The Bona Baskets Limburg had the chance to move up from the Regionalliga 2 to Regionalliga winning a 2 game series against Kirchheim. They lost the first game in Kirchheim by 10 points. What were the main problems for Limburg not being able to win? We only heard about the opportunity to play to move up recently. We had been on vacation for more than a month. We weren´t in shape. They had continued to train. Plus our American was already in the States and we couldn´t get him back. We really missed him.
What was the main focus going into game 2? We knew that we had to win by more than 10 points. We wanted to play very hard. We truly felt that we could win by 20 points. Unfortunately we were lacking energy at the end to make a run.
Limburg began great leading by 17 points, but let up a bit in the last minutes before the break leading only 44-41. What were the main reasons for losing the big lead?
I think we didn´t execute well in the last minutes. I think our lack of training and fitness was a factor and we had guys playing more minutes than usual.
What words of wisdom did head coach Danny Stallbohm give the team at the break?
He told us that we had to step on the gas pedal more. We had to play harder defense and that shots would begin to fall. Unfortunately shots didn´t fall the way we wanted to.
Limburg had big problems all day long on the closeout. What makes it so difficult to control the closeout on this level? I think that key is to keep guys out of the zone middle. We were always a step too late. They always kicked the ball out and got open looks. I don´t think that we defended all that bad. They just moved the ball well.
I noticed that you took little shots. I know you are very involved with the playmaking this season, but this could have been the prime time to step up. I took a month off. I tried to create more for my teammates. But your right, I could of taken on more responsibility and took more shots.
Limburg led 65-59 after 3 quarters. What did coach Stallbohm tell you guys for the last 10 minutes? We had to take it play by play. He told us that we didn´t need to score 10 points in 2 minutes. Just go step by step.
After 40 minutes the game finished at 75-75. Why couldn´t Limburg get over the hump? Our fitness and them being consistent on execution was the difference. It was simply a make or miss game.
What was your personal summary of the season of how the team performed? We more than exceeded our season expectations. We didn´t start well into the season, but we then went step by step and found together as a team. We beat TV Langen 2 by more than 40 points on our court. We also had record crowds attend our games. Despite not moving up to the Regionalliga, this was a very successful season.
What was the secret to the success? We played as a team on the court. For me personally this season was so much fun. I haven´t had this much fun with a Limburg team in many years. We always wanted to find the last option.
What player was the most improved?
Melvin Adrovic and Kelvin Nelcher.
What was your personal favorite play of your season? I remember hitting 3 deep three´s in a row in New Isenburg. Unfortunately we lost the game by 1 point.
What was your summary of your play? I averaged 11/5/6 and shot 36% from outside. I was pretty content with my play, but I would have liked to have averaged more points per game. I focused a lot more on my playmaking this season than other seasons.
Will you return? Yes
Who will reach the easyCredit BBL final and win it all? FC Bayern Munich will play Alba Berlin and Munich will win it all.
Who will win the NBA title? The Spurs will win it all. I like hos they play.
How far will Germany go at the football world cup in USA? I always go very positive into tournaments. A lot can happen in a tournament. We aren´t the top favorite, but let´s get the cup.
German Hoops 