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Rookie Modern Day Big Man Isaac Johnson(Rigas Zelli) Continues To Work Hard To Become That Big Fish In The Basketball Tank Overseas

Isaac Johnson (213-C-2000, college: Hawaii, agency: Slash Sports) is a 26 year old 213cm center playing his rookie season overseas with Rigas Zelli (Latvia-LBL). He began his basketball career at American Fork High school. He then played a season at the University of Oregon (NCAA) averaging 2.5ppg, 1.2rpg. He then played 2 seasons at Utah State University (NCAA) averaging 6.6ppg, 3.1rpg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 84.6% and 3.9ppg, 1.9rpg. He then finished at the University of Hawaii (NCAA) averaging 14.1ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 88.5%. He played NBA Summer League with the Philadelphia 76ers averaging 7.4ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 80.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against Rostock.

Thanks Isaac for talking to germanhoops.com Your playing your rookie season overseas with Rigas Zelli (Latvia-LBL). Before we talk about basketball, I have to ask you about a phrase in Latvian “”liela zivs” This is Big Fish. You got that nickname in 7thgrade when you were already 6,4. Do you see this nickname following you around overseas?

Hopefully the nickname follows me around in the sense that people will want to be excited about who I am as a player because of how I play. The energy I like to bring, especially when I play well, is spurred on by the fans and a fun part of that in the past has been my Nickname.

As a guy who hails from Utah, your used to cold winters and it won´t be any different in Latvia. How have you adjusted to life there? What has stood out so far in their culture?

So far, my wife and I have been adjusting very well. We have our regular amenities that help make us comfortable, and we have enjoyed learning some of the history of Latvia, seeing some amazing sights, and of course meeting some amazing people.

What kind of an experience has it been playing for RigasZelli (Latvia-LBL). What have you learned to appreciate most about the organization?

So far my experience playing for this club has been so positive. The people of this club really care about making our lives as easy as possible so that we can give all of our attention to playing basketball. They are great people, who are personable and so nice. One thing I appreciate most about this club is how professional everything is done. We are professional basketball players, and should be held to that standard, but the coaching staff as well as all other staff also hold themselves to the same standard of being professionals in their own right.

What has it been like playing for head coach RokasKondratavicius? What have you appreciated most about his basketball philosophy?

It has been an honor for me to play for coach, even in such a short time. He is a great communicator and really wants to make sure his coaching is received well. He gives corrections as any coach does, but also backs up his corrections and coaching with positive reinforcement which I have seen through my experience as a very successful trait. I appreciate his willingness to work with the players and other coaches, he isn’t afraid to be a part of workouts or drills.

What has been the biggest adjustment on the court for you coming from the NCAA? Has big man Klavs Cavars been a mentor for you during the early going?

I think the biggest adjustment this far is just the pace of play. Not just in how fast people can get up and down the court, but in the small movements and pauses in order to create deception with their attack or set up for others to attack. It is fun for me to learn from other players that have been pro for so long, both from talking and especially observing. (Klavs has not been at practice yet because he is still with the National team.)

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 213cm center. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I think I would best compare my game to Dirk or Porzingis. I’m able to stretch the floor, have a good feel on offense and am an underrated passer.

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

I would say yes, I like to think my game is not just being a stretch big, but also being able to play inside and make plays with the ball in my hand.

You can score and rebound well. What other strength does your offensive game incorporate?

I think, as I stated before, that my passing ability is underrated. I am able to make passes and decisions that show my IQ and allow me to be more than just a big man who can score.

How would you describe the development of your defensive game as a rookie? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I think my defense is ok, but definitely has some improvements to make. I was able to average 1 block per game during my senior year, and I would like to build on that, as well as increasing my effectiveness in ball screen coverages.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player?

The biggest part of my game that I am working on now is my confidence. I am a really good player, but at times, in the short term, I doubt myself instead of having the confidence that I will make the right decision regardless of the outcome. I am also working on being in better shape. The better shape I am in, the easier offense, defense and rebounding become.

Last summer you played with the Philadelphia 76ers (NBA Summer League in Las Vegas) averaging 7.4ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 80.0%. What kind of an experience was that? What was the most meaningful advice you got besides keep working hard?

The experience I had there was amazing! The staff and organization that the 76’ers have built and continue to build is modeled around great people who have immense basketball experience and knowledge. It taught me a lot about what it means to be a professional basketball player, and the type of player I am/need to still become.

You played against many big prospects in Las Vegas. Was there one guy you remember that stuck out most?

I would say the prospect who stuck out the most to me was actually my teammate, Lebaron Philon. He was a super skilled player who worked really hard on both sides of the ball. It was awesome to see and great to play alongside him.

You were at the University of Oregon for a season and played only 13 NCAA games. There were 4 centers on the squad including future NBA player Nfaly Dante. How tough were these two years. What could you gain and learn from this experience?

I was able to learn a lot about myself as a person as well as what it took to become a really good player. That year was difficult in the sense that I realized how I needed to make my expectations realistic. Of course you want to set high goals and work to achieve them, but also understand your role on the team and how it can change throughout a year.

You played your last NCAA game at Oregon against Utah State and then ended up going there. You played 2 seasons averaging 6.6ppg, 3.1rpg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 84.6%and 3.9ppg, 1.9rpg. It seemed like it was a coaching roller coaster as there were 3 coaches in 3 years. How do you remember these years. Was there one coach that helped you the most?

I am very fond of my time at Utah State even though I had a new coach each year there. I would say the coach who helped me the most was Danny Sprinkle, who is now head coach of the Washington Huskies. He helped me to gain confidence, understand my role on that team well, and learn to take criticism and coaching and interpret them into what I really needed to hear.

You reached the NCAA tournament 4 times. Was your 19 points in the win over TCU one of your fondest moments there?

One of the years, I was a red-shirt, and both of my other years at Utah State, along with my one year at Hawaii. I think that’s win will always hold a special place in my heart, but I would say my overall fondest moment was making it to the tournament with Hawaii. Even though we lost, it was the whole experience of being the leader to help carry our team to the tournament for the first time in 10 years.

You then finished at the University of Hawaii (NCAA) averaging 14.1ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 88.5%. It was your break out season. What kind of a player did you become there?

I would say I really was able to realize the type of dominant, and hard working player I can be while there. I became much more confident in my shooting, decision making, and overall trust of my coaches, team and self. I really caught a glimpse of the type of player I can continue to be in the future.

You had 2 massive games in 2 buzzer beater games against Call State Irvine and Fullerton scoring 22 and 15 points. What game was most exciting for you?

I would say whenever we had the chance to play them was exciting, and always a battle. But every time we beat them was my favorite. They are well coached, and a good team, and proving we were better coached and a better team was always such a good feeling.

How did head coach Eran Ganot give you that last vital push to prepare you for a professional career?

He helped me to fall in love with the game of basketball again. He helped make the game fun. Because I was able to realize the type of player I am led by his coaching, he allowed me to realize the possibilities I have playing professional.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Yacine Toumi?

Me. Every time. No questions asked.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

I think I would say Benedict Mathurin

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

In sense of in a basketball game, or in sense of overall teammate are two different answers. But my favorite overall teammates, including both are:

Hunter Erickson

Landon Brenchley

Taylor Funk

Harry Rouhliadeff

Gytis Nemeiksa

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron, Steph, Dirk, Larry Bird

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron

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

I am unaware of these movies.

Thanks Isaac for the chat.

A Decade Of 17 Stories And A New Challenge in Trier For Terrell Harris

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Terrell Harris in Frankfurt 2026

The easyCredit BBL season is in full swing, but there are always new guys coming in at the start as guys are injured. That happened with the Vet-Concept Gladiators Trier and they reacted bringing in a real veteran with easyCredit BBL, Pro A and international experience in Denmark, Turkey, Italy and Romania with Terrell Harris. He came to Trier having played 277 professional games. I read the press release and looked on my calendar and marked the cup date against the Skyliners as that would finally be the time again where I would see him play live again. The last time I had seen him play live was in the winter of 2021 during Covid when he was playing for the Niners Chemnitz. I entered the Skyliners arena and was disappointed when I didn´t see him on the roster for the game. I reported on a very exciting game which the Skyliners had won in superb fashion being led by their potent guard duo of Judah Mintz and Isaiah Swope combing for 34 points. After the game, I was in usual interview mode making the rounds and interviewed Isaiah Swope. Then out of nowhere, Terrell Harris stood there in front of me in mid question. I popped up and greeted him with a strong hand shake while Swope sat there waiting a bit bewildered. We said our hello´s and then he apologized to Swope for interrupting the interview. After the interview, I went to him and we had some small talk. He remembered our last meeting more than 5.5 years ago and even our photo we took, but the other guy who posed with us at had slipped my mind. “I remember that photo that we took. Virgil Matthews was also in the picture with us. I also remember our first interview a decade ago when I was a rookie with Pro B team Iserlohn. I also know that I´m 2-0 in Frankfurt when I was playing. We been in touch for a decade Miles, blessings to you and your career and I’ve been blessed to go a decade long in this overseas hoop life. Extremely grateful for year 10”, stressed Terrell Harris. I have been fortunate to interview Terrell Harris now 17 times in the last decade and it is always a pleasure talking basketball with the Florida native.

Virgil Matthews, Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Terrell Harris in Frankfurt in 2021

In the summer of 2025, I got a text message from the ex Georgia College & State University (NCAA2) guard asking me if he could get him some extra media exposure on eurobasket.com and my blog German hoops and I was more than happy to do it. We had done 15 interviews in the last 9 years and it had been a while since I had last interviewed him. It had been in May 2022 when he had balled with Crailsheim, so I was happy he had reached out since our contact had ebbed a bit the last years. He had missed the entire 2024-2025 season due to injury and wanted to get his name out again. He found not one, but two teams last season splitting the season with CS Valcea 1924 Rm Valcea (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 7.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 78.3% and then returned back to Germany and suited up with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg (Germany-BBL) averaging 8.9ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 66.7%. “Last year was tough for me missing 18 months then getting the chance to play with both teams without having training camp and just fitting in on the fly. I’m sure I could’ve put up better numbers because I still have some more game left in me. I was just trying to fit in as much as possible without causing in interruption because both teams were already built and flowing”, stated Terrell Harris. In Romania, he was finally able to play the game he loves again, but getting back into the groove wasn´t simple. “I was still trying to get over the mental hurdle in Romania of returning to the court. Also we played with a two Romanians must be on the court rule which limited my playing time. I’m fortunate to be a part of Valcea history and roster. It’s a part of my story. By the time I start to feel like myself again, Ludwigburg came calling”, remembered Terrell Harris.

Terrell Harris in Frankfurt in 2026

The American who enjoyed being teammates with Euroleague player TJ Shorts in Crailsheim then returned back to Germany and had a new challenge with Ludwigsburg. Despite being there for only a short time, he got a lot out of the experience that didn´t allow team success. “Ludwigsburg was nice to play at even though I got there late. I enjoyed the coaching staff and players. 2 more games won and we would’ve been the number 6 seed. I just wish I was there from August with that certain group of guys who needed my leadership at the guard position. I think they would’ve been better from a mental standpoint”, stressed Terrell Harris. Ludwigsburg was definitely a learning experience and is blessed that he could spend time with the MHP Riesen organization. “It was extremely tough to get off a plane at midnight go through medicals to get cleared then have a walk through then play the next day vs a team like Chemnitz who were fighting for a playoff spot at the time. I did the best I could with the role I had with Lubu! I’m grateful they gave me a shot to return back to Germany basketball after 3 years. I leaned to stay ready and swallow pride because your role can be way different than what you’re accustomed to through the years”, stated Terrell Harris. Last season, he had a really good game against his future team Trier. Did he ever think that he would land there? “No to be honest I didn’t think I would land in Trier. I was home waiting for a call but Trier wasn’t on my radar. Glad Coach called for me to join a winning program though. So far it’s been fun”, smiled Terrell Harris who will tip his hat to a friendly 1-1 game in practice with teammate Eli Brooks. “Eli is young and quick. At 33 and a knee injury I don’t think I can stay in front of him. Unless I get 5 fouls. He’s a great player, I love his game. 1 on 1 is more his game not mine“, smiled Terrell Harris.

Now the scoring guard who always had versatility in his game has a new challenge once again in Germany with the Vet-Concept Gladiators Trier and it is his 6^th club in Germany with Iserlohn, Rostock, Chemnitz, Cralsheim and Ludwigsburg that he has played with. It is no surprise that he has returned back to Germany. Coming to a place where he has always been successful. “I’ve been very fortunate enough to build a career around Germany. I’m blessed that the GM and coaches still feel as if I can help contribute to their club. I guess my career was supposed to play out like this. I embrace everything outside of basketball in order to make the on the court easier. I have learned to get out and meet people and just connect with culture off the court to make life easier on the court. I struggled with that my first few years”, remembered Terrell Harris. There is a lot of history in Trier and the club is back in the BBL after a long tenure in the Pro A and are very successful in the BBL. It was not difficult to comprehend why he joined the team. “I wanted to be a part of winning and help a winning culture. What Trier built here the last 3 to 4 years has been amazing. I remember when the club was Pro A and struggling to become a top team back in 2019 and 2020. It is a class act organization. From management to coaching to players. Seems like everyone is on the same page here. Which it shows on the court. I’m glad I can write about this chapter of my career in this city because I know it’s going to be about winning”, stressed Terrell Harris. He is playing for a rising coach in Jacques Schneider and is ready to embrace his new role. “Coach is very straightforward and honest with his players but at the same time allow them to star in their role. Every player knows their role to the fullest. My role is to add on to everything this team already possesses. Play hard, play tough, play defense, and share the ball. I do not need to be a superhero here”, warned Terrell Harris. An interesting stat in his great career is that from 2013-2024, he always averaged in double figures in scoring. However he was always a versatile player and fills the stat sheet like no other. At 33, he knows exactly how he will help his new organization be successful. “I want to continue to play make and prove I can still contribute to a top team at a top level. Just give these guys whatever I’m called upon to give”, warned Terrell Harris. It will be interesting to see how he adjusts to his new team. Like last season he came late to the club missing all of training camp. Unfortunately, I will miss the next BBL meeting in Frankfurt with Trier and Harris, because on that day, I will be calling a game elsewhere. However one thing is for sure. There will be a 18^th story between Terrell Harris and I sometime. It just couldn´t be any other way.

Niko Jerkic Will Never Forget Legendary Coach Svetislav Pesic Calling His Name In His BBL Debut Against Braunscwehig

Pic Credit; FC Basketball

Niko Jerkic (202-F-2007) is a 19 year old 202cm forward from Croatia that is playing with FC Bayern Munich. He began his career in Germany in the ratiopharm Ulm organization. He played NBBL reaching the final in 2025 and also played for their Pro B team Orange Academy and their Regionalliga team. Last season he played with FC Bayern Muenchen Second Team (Germany-ProB, starting five) averaging 13.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 70.0%, played also with their NBBL team averaging 17.8ppg, 5.0rpg, 4.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 73.2% and also played 1 easyCredit BBL game. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the summer of 2026 about basketball.

Thanks Niko for talking to germanhoops.com. I know your Dad since a long time. I remember meeting you and Roko in Berlin in 2025 at NBBL top 4. I remember him telling you I was a writer. What other things do you remember him saying about me?

He told me that you are in the Basketball scene a long time and a very good writer. Also that you are a commentator.

How did you get a love to basketball and when did you start to play the game?

First I started to play football and my dad was watching the games, I never touched the ball. Then after we had a conversation and I switched to basketball. I think I started playing at 7 years old. My dad always shot with me outside, that´s when I really fell in love with basketball.

Please name your career stops from when you began to play until you came to orange academy jbbl?

Scanplus Baskets U10

Ulm U12, U14 and the JBBL two years with Orange Academy

Who were your early basketball inspirations? Was it a mix of German and Croatian players?

When I was 12 years old, it was always Lamelo Ball. I always watched his mixtapes and game highlights. Now I really like to watch players I get compared to like Dzanan Musa or Mario Hezonja. Those are my main inspirations right now. But I also have more players I really enjoy watching like Mike James or Dwayne Bacon.

Was your dad like a mentor for you? How has he helped your game most?

Yes he is my mentor my whole life. He trained me since I was little and supported me the most with my mom, watching every and giving me tips during and after the game. He even watched team practices when I was young.

You played JBBL with Orange Academy. How do you remember those early years in Ulm. Did you have another type of mentor besides your dad?

My first year no, my second year yes, it was my former coach Jochen Lotz. I enjoyed playing for him, because he saw my talent and gave me freedom to play. He pushed me every practice to go harder especially on defense.

In the 2023-2024 season you made the jump to the NBBL team and won ANGT over Zalgiris. What memories do you have of winning that title?

We were a really talented team and had a deep roster. Our Chemistry was awesome and it was a lot of fun to play in Dubai. What I remember the most is having fun at the pool with my guys.

You also got your first real experience playing with men playing for BBU 01 Ulm (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 8.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 23.7%, FT: 73.7%. How vital was this time? How did your game then profit most from Regionalliga ball?

It helped me make the jump to senior basketball. That was my first year playing against grown men and also helped me to jump to the next league Pro b. I had freedom from our Coach Tim Roleder, that helped me trying stuff against better players and taking the next step.

How valuable was having a guy like Noa Essengue as a teammate and a guy you could battle in practice? What are your memories with him?

He is obviously a great player, he plays for the bulls now. I only practiced with him shortly before the ANGT, I would describe him as a quiet guy, but very nice to talk to. He carried our team that tournament.

In the 2024-2025 season you got your first Pro B experience and played NBBL with Ulm. How did your game profit most under Florian Flabb?

In the NBBL I was given freedom and had the ball in my hands. In the Pro B I had a different kind of role more off ball because we had other guys. He pushed me every practice to get better and I had some great conversations with him during my time playing for him.

You reached the NBBL final in 2025 in Berlin and averaged with ratiopharm Ulm U19 team (Germany-NBBL)16.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 75.0%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 75.4%. How tough was it losing to Munich in the final? What do you feel was the difference?

I thought that we deserved to win, because we worked so hard towards this final game. At the end they just brought more energy to the game and we didn´t step up like we should have.

You played on many teams with Ulm with Swiss army knife Joel Cwik. How special of a player was he? Was he like a teammate mentor for you?

He wasn´t a mentor for me because we are almost the same age. He is a player that always brings energy with his dunks and defense. He is a all rounder who can do a bit of everything on the court and is also a great funny guy to be around.

When you look back at your years in Ulm, what kind of a player did you become there?

I think I developed good at Ulm. I became a player that can create for himself but also for others. I didn´t only develop on the court, but of the court I think I also became a better person, becauseIi was around mature and nice people.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 202cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a pro player who would best fit the description?

Just recently I was compared to Dzanan Musa. I like Mario Hezonja a lot and feel like I play like him, I´m just not as athletic.

You’re a player that fills the stat sheet really well. How big is versatility in your game?

I would describe myself as a Big Guard and Point Forward. I can shoot and score but I think my passing is a bit underrated. My defense improved a lot the last years.

You shot 39% in the Pro B with Munich. How do you see the development of your 3 pointer last season and what goals do you have with it this season?

I had a good shooting season, even though I was injured for a long time. My goal is definetly to go over 40 percent this season, which is possible.

Talk about your defensive game. Are you still raw? What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

As I said my defense improved a lot, because I guard smaller guards at practice to get better. Also through the first team here in Munich my defense improved because I´m guarding Euroleauge players. I want to be able to guard multiple positions when I am done developing.

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

This summer my focus is definitely on the athletic part, getting faster, more explosive and stronger. That is really what I need to become a pro. Of course I´m also working on my creating with the ball.

You played with FC Bayern Munich last season in the Pro B averaging 13.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 70.0%, played NBBL and 1 BBL game. What is the best thing about playing for this great organization?

It is a really great organization. All the coaches and the staff cares about the player. The professionalism of all coaches and staff is at a really high level. I´m grateful to play for this amazing club and get a chance to develop as a person and a player. I have everything that I need here in Munich.

What is it like being teammates with brother Roko? What do you like most about him as a player and person?

It´s so fun playing with my little brother and I´m so grateful to share the court with him. I hope we stay healthy this season so we can even play more together. He has so much potential, the way he scans the court as a point guard with his size is incredible. Of course he can also score and likes to get everybody involved. But when it gets time to takeover, he knows how to do it. His ceiling is set very high. He pushes me every workout and we spend a lot of time to getter of the court also.

How competitve are you guys? How many 1-1 games do you win in 10 tries?

We are both really competitive and like to win. Of course I win 10 times you don´t even have to ask. Maybe in the future it will change, but for now I got myself every time. He will say otherwise, because he is a liar.

Your game really picked up in Feb 2026 after a long injury. How tough were those first months fighting the injury and getting fit again?

It was definitely a hard time mentally, because I had the injury multiple times. I was in the weight room everyday and couldn´t touch a basketball, that´s what annoyed me the most. Thanks to the great coaches here in Bayern I got fit fast.

How tough was it losing NBBL playoffs to your ex team Ulm? You gave all you had with 55 points in 2 games. What was the difference in this series? Was Teo Milicic to much to handle?

Yeah Teo definitely gave us problems, with his abilities to score but also to pass. We couldn´t stop him. Also Endurance really gave us problems with his size and grabbing rebounds and dunking on people. But also players like Milo Murray or Kayan Yeboah who are very versatile helped Ulm win. If we would have had a complete roster I think we would have won the series. We had guys like Roko Jerkic, Nikolas Sermpezis and Andrija Susic missing the whole series. They´re also some main guys.

You made new strides last season. How did your season grow further with FC Bayern Munich?

Because of my Injury I missed half of the season, but still I think I did a solid job. Bayern is really letting me develop by giving me freedom and trying out new things in games. I also trained a lot with the first team, which really helped me to get better. When you practice with them and then go to Pro B, it seems so much easier. Every Coach wants the best for you and wants you to succeed, I really like this whole philosophy and the ideas of the club.

You made your BBL debut against Braunschweig scoring 1 point in 3 minutes. What will you always remember from that first BBL game?

I will always remember Coach Pesic calling my name to get subbed in. Especially debuting for such a legendary coach is awesome. My first free throw I was a bit nervous, but then I calmed down and made the second one. Also all the fans and players cheering for me was a very special moment.

What was it like playing for legend Svetislav Pesic? Do you remember having a meaningful conversation with him about basketball or life?

We had multiple conversations about basketball, he always tried to get me better at everything I did. He pushed me and always said I need to go harder and really compete.

If you had to pick 1 Munich BBL player who had the biggest impact on you what would it be?

Isaiah Mike

What are your personal goals for the 2026-2027 season?

I would like to end up in first place in the Pro B and have a great Season as a team and individually.

You also play for the Croatian youth national team. How is the stat of Croatian basketball? What young talents are coming up for the future?

Croatia has some very talented players, especially in the generation of 2010.

You played at the FIBA U16 European Championship Division B in Pitesti (Romania) winning Gold averaging 8.5ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 44.4%. What memories will you always have of winning that title?

We won because our team chemistry was great and we trained so much. I will always remember chilling with the guys at the hotels and having fun.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

I think the hardest person I ever had to guard is Xavier Rathan-Mayes. His skillset is so unique.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I will give you a Top 10 because I can’t decide. Not in order.

Milo Murray, Jervis Scheffs, Oliver Kullamae, Endurance Aiyamenkhue, Kayaan Yeboah, Caspar Vossenberg, Namik Muratovic, Andrija Susic, Teo and Zoran Milicic.

Please list your personal Croatian and German Mount Rushmore of all-time best 4 players?

Croatia: Drazen Petrovic, Toni Kukoc, Ivica Zubac, Mario Hezonja

Germany: Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroder, Franz Wagner, Isaac Bonga

Who is your GOAT?

Paul George

Thanks Niko for the chat.

The EPG Baskets Have Best Start In Their Pro A History As Chase Johnson And His Teammates Are Playing For Tyren Moore The Rest Of The Way

Pic Credit: Angel King Media

Chase Forte (193-G-2001, college: Boston Coll.) is a 25 year old 193cm guard from North Carolina playing his rookie season overseas with German Pro A team EPG Baskets Koblenz. He began his basketball career at the Word Of God Christian Academy. He then was one year at the University of North Carolina – Asheville (NCAA) and then played 2 seasons at Gulf Coast State College (JUCO) averaging 13.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.9apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 54.1% and 20.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 5.8apg, 2.8spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 61.4%. He then played a season at Northwestern State University (NCAA) averaging 9.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 53.7%. He then played a season at the University of South Dakota (NCAA) averaging 17.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 65.2%. He then added one more year at Boston College (NCAA) averaging : 6.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 59.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the massive 88-86 road win in Paderborn

Congrats on the big 88-86 win in Paderborn. The team is 3-1 and have their greatest Pro A start in history. How good does that feel as a rookie?

It feels really good. We really expect wins like this. We have big goals. Obviously with Ty Moore out, it isn´t easy. We have to keep going. The league won´t feel sorry for us and we won´t feel sorry for ourselves either.

How proud are you winning the second game in a row without Tyren Moore. Do you guys have that “We are playing for Tyren Moore” attitude?

Yes we are. I remember last night when Badu Buck had us in a huddle before we all got on the bus, he said “We got this win done for him. We are playing for him”. We were all at a loss of words when it was announced that he was done for the season. In our last interview, I told you that we were all wishing him a speedy recovery before knowing how bad his injury really was. We didn´t expect it. It is just amazing to see how all stuck together with 16 down and battling back to win.

How was the bus ride home? Was it more relaxed or was there some celebrating?

It was relaxed. We did our celebrating on the court and in the locker room. On the bus, it was over. We can´t live in the past. We have that next game mentality.

What was the game plan coming in? The team was known as a three point shooting team. They didn´t disappoint heaving it 47 times?

Containing Worku was our biggest game plan. He was my match up. He can shoot the ball, but is also a great creator for their offense. I contained him well. He only scored 4 points. We elected to have other guys try to beat us.

You began the game again as main point guard with no Tyren Moore. Was there less pressure than against Artland or were you totally locked in?

I was totally locked in. I´m used to running the show. Playmaking is really my biggest strength. My shot still isn´t falling and when that happens, then I have to find other ways to impact the game and help my team win.

Paderborn led 23-15 after 10 minutes. They really began hit three´s toward the end, but also found the way to the rim getting easy baskets. What was defensively the biggest problem for the EPG Baskets in the first 10 minutes?

We played the drive a lot and they hit crazy shots. Silic hit some crazy step back three´s. We tried to contest them as best as we could. Gille tried to close out while staying on the side to force the drive. As a result we forced turnovers. We hit a buzzer beater at the end which helped us stay in the game.

In the second quarter a big strength was the fighting qualities of the EPG Baskets. The score was only 43-38, but the deficit could have been 10-15 if Camaron Tongue and Ferenc Gille hadn´t made timely baskets? As a rookie did a quarter like this help your leadership qualities grow?

Yes absolutely. We weren´t hitting shots, so I had to find other ways to get guys engaged. I kept telling my teammates that our run was coming.

What was it like battling against Jonil Fugett. He is another guy who is working his way up the ladder and has big potential. Did he feel your physicality at times?

He definitely felt my physicality. It wasn´t a problem guarding him for me.

How big was the energy needed from German Jannis Sonnefeld? He made a 7-0 run all by himself with 2 dunks. How big was that then at that moment?

Jannis´s energy at that moment was so important for us. My favorite play was his put back dunk in that phase. That really got us hyped. He gave us great support and that was the turning point of the game.

How much does the presence of Camaron Tongue benefit his game?

It helps a lot. Iron sharpens iron. They go at it in practice daily and that helps both guys. Both are key players for us.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz kept fighting and trailed only 68-67 after 30 minutes thanks to a big Jonas Niedermanner trey. What did head coach Stephan Dohrn tell the team for the fourth quarter?

He just told us to finish the game strong and that in no way did we want a copy of the Nurnberg game. We had to make sure that we stay together.

In the third quarter rookie Camaron Tongue scored 3 baskets in a row and after 4 games is the team´s most consistent player. Did you see this type of development when you arrived in August?

He has been awesome and we appreciate it so much what he does night in and night out for us. He has been playing like that since he got here and he is just healthy now and it shows.

In crunch time, Koblenz made a run to get the 88-83 lead, but they stormed back with a Fugett trey, but you then made a big stop on Eyassu Worku. What was key at the end for the win?

I think staying together and sharing the ball well at the end was key. Our stop of Worku at the end was big even if it could have been a foul. All in all though, we were a bit sloppy at the end of the game. We turned the ball over and let Worku go coast to coast, but Tongue made a big play and walled up. We can´t let that happen to a player like that at the end of the game. We still made big plays starting with a Gille offensive rebound lay up and mid range shots by Diculesciú and I and got 3 stops.

What was the key stat? Winning the rebound battle, 8 turnovers or having 74-49 more shots?

We did a good job with getting offensive rebounds and forcing 17 turnovers, but I think the key stat was having the extra possessions and having 25 more shots.

You had a 6/4/8 game but shot 2/10 from the field. What was your summary of your game?

Like I said in our last interview, if my shot isn´t falling, then I have to find other ways to help us win. I can´t cry about my shot not falling. I just have to get up more shots in the gym. I did my job leading the team to victory. I had 8 assists and 0 turnovers. I can be happy about that.

What will you work on most this week?

I will work a lot this week on finishing through contact. I also want to work on my mid range more. I used it at the perfect time yesterday. I want to use it more. I respect the league and continue to get up reps.

How will you spend your Sunday night? Will NFL football be on the program?

I will watch a little NFL. I couldn´t check the schedule much yet, because I was so focused on game yesterday. My team are the Colts.

But your from North Carolina and not Indianapolis?

That is correct. Most people in North Carolina like the Panthers, but I just grew up loving Payton Manning.

Thanks Chase for the chat.

Physical Rim Protector Ray Somerville(Neptunas Klaipeda) Is The Classic Defensive Rim Protector Looking To Make The Next Step Overseas

Raymond Somerville (211-C/F-2000, college: Delaware St.) is a 26 year old 211cm forward/center from Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania playing his second pro season and first with Neptunas Klaipeda (Lithuania-LKL). Last season he played his rookie season with KK TFT Skopje (North Macedonia-Super League) averaging 7.7ppg, 5.8rpg, Blocks-4 (1.3bpg), FGP: 59.7%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 64.4%. He began his basketball career at the Shipley School and then played at California State University from 2020-2022 an dthen played at Delaware State University from 2022-2025. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against the Niners Chemnitz.

Thanks Ray for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second pro season overseas and first with Neptunas Klaipeda (Lithuania-LKL). How blessed do you feel to be playing overseas and Eurocup a top league in Europe?

I am grateful for the opportunity to be at this wearing a Neptunas jersey and thankful to them for giving me the opportunity to play here. I’m thankful to all my teammates and coaches and family members, and everyone that supported me along the way.

After your rookie season in North Macedonia, now your in crazy basketball country Lithuania. How have you experienced the love for basketball so far in Lithuania?

While I am still new to the experience, what I’ll say so far is that the fans and community here are the best. To have such strong support in the arena and the city makes everything just better. We also have a development program and the kids are always excited to see us on our way to practice and on the way home.

What were the main reasons for joining Neptunas Klaipeda (Lithuania-LKL). What is your main goal with your game?

I joined this team for the opportunity to compete at a high level everyday both in practice and in games. Along with the ability to learn and grow my IQ for the game. For me at this point I know I haven’t actualized my full potential with basketball. I think that there’s a lot more for me to go in terms of both on and off the floor with learning how this game works and being a professional.

How vital has it been having 2 big man vets like Einaras Tubutis and Martynas Echodas? How have you gotten adjusted playing and learning from them?

It has been great like I said working with and against Tubutis and Echodas has been great. It’s been a great learning experience in the time that we have been able to practice together. Being able to watch, ask and then figure out certain moves or actions with two high level players is exactly what I need.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 211cm center. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I think that is kind of difficult because NBA players play their roles at the highest of elite levels but if I were to say anybody, I feel like somewhere around Mitchell Robert and Nick Claxton with the fact of this rim protection to be a pick-and-roll five

You’re the classic rim protector that can rebound well. You have never averaged double figures in scoring in the NCAA or overseas. Is becoming more of a scoring threat a goal of yours?

Becoming a great basketball player is my goal. I mean, I think scoring will become a part of it and give me a broader skillset but that’s never been my role and that’s never been a role that I gravitated towards. I love my role and I love what I can bring to teams.

What other strengths does your game incorporate? How is your passing out of the post?

I believe my physical tools are my best attribute. I am a fast center and can create things for my team with just movement or good screens. My post passing is definitely something that has been developing and I’ll be able to work on but to be honest, I am not a traditional post-up big. I try to focus on understanding my teammates and by them communicating where they’re at to make everything simpler

Your the classic rim protector that can also block shots well. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I’ve always believed that my best role is being an anchor for a defense. Somebody that my teammates can rely on in to protect the paint while also be able to switch and guard on the perimeter. My switching defense is the next step that I want to work on. I want to work on being comfortable learning how to adjust my guarding to this level and be able to stop any single person on the floor no matter who it is because I do believe I have the capability to do so.

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

I would say my biggest thing is just consistency. Consistency is the biggest thing and then you know these increasing levels of basketball, you get to learn more about the smaller details and understanding the ins and outs of cuts and spacing and where to move on the floor, I’d say for me, my biggest thing to work on is understanding and mastering the short roll game.

Last season as a rookie you played with KK TFT Skopje (North Macedonia-Super League) averaging 7.7ppg, 5.8rpg, Blocks-4 (1.3bpg), FGP: 59.7%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 64.4%; Adriatic League 2 averaged 7.1ppg, 5.6rpg, Blocks-1 (1.4bpg), FGP: 68.9%, FT: 56.4%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Overseas, I think for me, that experience came with the blend of being in TFT Skopje. It was a great experience with my teammates and then the culture and everybody. A big piece was having Darren Govens and Stanley Davis Jr. They’re from Delaware County, Pennsylvania, just like me having that familiarity eased things. I guess the realization came in December. There was a short period of time I had a break and without going too far, a few life things didn’t go my way and it was kind of at that point time. I realize I’m out here on my own so I have to make the most of it

How vital was it having a veteran and allrounder around in Justin Gordon? Was he like a mentor for you?

Yeah, so funny enough, Justin was the other piece of that puzzle. When it came to the familiarity, he was our other import from North Carolina and having him around was a major piece of understanding how to be a professional the way he carried himself and the way he treated his body was, I mean, it was great to be able to learn from and see, because that’s something that I had to take away and it’s the biggest piece of my game that I understood.

You beat Madzari in the playoffs and then lost to Pelister in 3games. What did you learn from your first pro playoff series?

At that point, I think that would’ve been about our fourth or fifth playoff series after all our ABA 2 playoffs, but with that the main thing I learned is adjustments and consistency are the two biggest things to be able to win games being able to adjust on the fly and react to teams, whatever teams do well or whatever teams don’t do well and also learning to just move on not only from the next play or from the next game, you can’t allow the emotions of one game to drag into the next and you can’t allow the emotions in the eyes of one lead to the next year

You were 3 years at California State University Bakersfield (NCAA) and only played 16 games. How challenging were these 3 years especially mentally? What positives could you get out of it?

I would say those three years brought a lot of challenges, but I don’t necessarily look at them as challenges, just obstacles. When I decided to go to Bakersfield I went because the staff there had everything I needed to develop and become a high level basketball player. I am thankful because I look back and know that they gave me the formula for success. I’d say the challenging parts came from just having to understand that it wasn’t my time and I was young, so it was frustrating. I think that was the biggest hurdle for me to overcome. They taught me how to become a pro. I just wasn’t able to recognize it.

You then moved to Delaware State University (NCAA) averaging 4.9ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.2bpg
, 3.4ppg, 2.6rpg and. 3.1ppg, 2.1rpg. How did you experience these three years as a player. What was surprising your minutes dipped every season from start to end.

For me, that moved when I left Bakersfield and moved to Del State it was for the opportunity, one, to be a part of the rotation, but I also moved there to help start and reestablish a culture, successful culture that builds good men and a good basketball program, and on the second, I’m glad to say that I was a major piece in getting that done and in my time there my minutes and all my play on the floor didn’t necessarily reflect what I wanted to get done or achieve I still was able to make an impact. Dealing with my father’s health and death at the time led to me not being able to focus on basketball or much of anything outside of that really, I call it a secondary lesson, having to learn that now wasn’t the time, but in terms of those things, I just move forward

You had great games against Lamar and Norfolk State in losing causes. What was your fondest moment on the court at Delaware State?

I would say my most enjoyable moment on the floor probably would’ve come from our run in the MEAC tournament in 25′ after we had finally gotten through a somewhat rocky season, but we were able to pull through and show that we were a good team and then we were able to get down to our conference tournament and make a run while unfortunately, we weren’t able to win the championship and win the crown it still was a great experience just being able to be consumed by basketball with nothing but the guys I’ve called my brothers for the past two years

How did head coach Stan Waterman groom and prepare you for a pro career?

I am thankful to Coach Waterman for the time we spent together. For me, I was able to learn a new side of how players can interact with coaches and coaching styles.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Alston Andrews?

I figure, out of the fairness and respect I have for AA, I’ll say it’s even. He had some days where he got me and I had some days where I was pretty decent but beyond that was honestly one of my greatest teammates, and I still look at him as a brother to this day and I’m wishing the best for him

Who is the toughest player that you ever face din the NCAA that reached the NBA?

I played against a lot of people that have now or have played in the NBA Funny enough, I think the toughest experience didn’t come from college, but from my first year playing varsity basketball. I ended up playing against Mo Bamba when he was the number-three-ranked player in his class as a senior and I think that was a tough experience, but although it was tough, it was great because I wasn’t scared but when you do that at 16, not much else really scares you.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Okay, but some of these are skill and some are family.

Sam Sessoms

Taze Moore

Kyle Johnson

Stanley Davis

K’vonn Cramer

Who is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kevin Garnett, LeBron, Shaq, Kyrie

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron without a doubt

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

No, I did not watch the sequel. I’m going to be honest, I didn’t even watch the original.

Thanks Ray for the chat.

Learning Early On Not To Wait To Be Great Has Allowed Darnell Edge(Balkan Botevgrad) To Experience An Amazing Career Overseas

Darnell Edge (188-PG-1997, college: FDU, agency: Slash Sports) is a 29 year old 188cm point guard from Saugerties,New York playing his eighth professional season and first with Balkan Botevgrad (Bulgaria-NBL). He is a real basketball globetrotter having played in countries like Poland, Ukraine, Turkey, Romania, Kosovo, Dominican Republic, Israel, Cyprus and Germany. He began his basketball career with Saugerties High School and then played 4 years at Fairleigh Dickinson University (NCAA) averaging 16.6ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 47.7%, FT: 88.7%. He spoke to Germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against ratiopharm Ulm.

Thanks Darnell for talking to germanhoops.com. Your in your eighth season and playing in your 11th country overseas in Bulgaria. You must have an incredible Passport with all those stamps. If someone had told you in 2019 that your route overseas would have been like this in 2026 what would you have said?

I would of said that I´m sure that a lot of growth would have happened for me to do that. I really wouldn´t have expected that then, I mean I have gone through so many obstacles and grown in the last years. So much has happened to me overseas and I feel like I always made the most out of my opportunities and continued to grow as a player and person.

You’re the ultimate globetrotter. What has given you the most pleasure overseas so far in living this kind of life style?

First and foremost I´m just so blessed to be able to play the game that I love and make a good salary. Being able to experience different cultures has always been on my bucket list. I feel like every culture that I have experienced overseas has helped to continue to shape me as a man.

Your playing your first season for Balkan Botevgrad (Bulgaria-NBL) and will play Eurocup which is the highest international competition you have ever played in overseas after Fiba Eurocup. Has having to have proved yourself every season make this season really special for you because you proved again that you can make the next step?

I think that I have had to prove myself in my overseas career as well as being able to experience so many cultures. I was always open for a challenge. But I do feel like in the last 2-3 years me having that feeling of having to prove myself hasn´t been as prevalent for me. I know what I can do with my abilities and if I get that opportunity, I always do the best that I can. I have always worked hard to try to get to the highest level and just show my game as best as I can.

You won 3 titles in Kosovo. Does your drive to win titles get bigger each season as you get older?

Of course. That is the reason why we play the game. The ultimate goal is to grow and get better and win titles. My biggest goal every season is to get better and reach the team goals and my personal goals.

What is your biggest goal with your personal game this season? What steps do you want to make this season concerning your game?

I want to continue to develop my game at the highest level. I want to continue to develop as a leader and be able to continue to knock down shots. I have showed over the years that I can get from the lower leagues to the higher leagues. I don´t take anything for granted. I want to also continue to travel the world and expand my horizons.

Last season you split time with Keravnos Strovolou (Cyprus-ECOMMBX BL) averaging 19.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 4.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 64.3%, 3PT: 51.7%, FT: 87.5%, in Dec.’25 moved to MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg (Germany-BBL) averaging 6.6ppg, 1.0rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 41.7%, then moved to Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL) averaging 16.6ppg, 3.5rpg, 4.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT-1 (48.3%), FT-4 (98.1%). How taxing was this season for you? You did finish the season strong in Poland. What did you learn about this season so deep in your career?

I learned that nothing is ever certain and that you have to adapt quick where ever you are. In all 3 places, I was there within 24-48 hours. I had to adapt to a new system on the fly each time. I also had to learn each teammates tendencies and just always be open minded. I gave myself grace and transitioning isn´t always easy, but that’s part of the game.

In the 24-25 season you played with Ironi Hai Motors Nes-Ziona (Israel-Winner League) averaging 12.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.1apg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 85.3%. Every American that I have interviewed that balled in Israel loved it. What was your most memorable experience on and off the court?

Israel is such a historic place. I remember going to Jesus´s tomb on Christmas morning. I also saw the dead sea and seeing the war was also something I won´t forget. I remember seeing the missiles from my apartment in Tel Aviv. Israel has been my favorite place to live in so far. The lifestyle is great. The beaches are so pretty. I also will always remember then practices, wins and the relationships that I built with my teammates.

In the 23-24 season you had your most successful season with KB Trepca Mitrovice (Kosovo-Superliga) averaging PPG-4 (17.9), 4.2rpg, APG-3 (5.8), 1.1spg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT-1 (44.6%), FT-3 (87.1%). You came late to the team and helped them win 3 titles. Was this the best confirmation that you might have been that missing piece to the success. What was so special about this team?

I think that I fit in perfectly into their system. They were looking for a point guard that could run the team well, run the pick and roll well and hit shots. They saw me as being the missing piece to bring the team to their potential. Winning 3 titles in one country is tough. We almost had a 20 game winning streak that season. I was ready to go that season.

How exciting was that finals series against Ylli where you won in 5 games and won game 5 67-66. What will you always remember from the deciding game?

I just remember us being able to get over the hump. We ran through the league and when we reached the final, we were a different animal. Both teams won their 2 home games and in game 5, it went to the wire that we were able to pull out the win. We were so locked in. It was a great feeling that I will never forget. I also will never forget our team´s fan base. It was one of not the best fan base that I ever played for. Everyone was so excited. The club had been waiting 12 years for that moment. It was great for all.

You split the 22-23 season with CS Dinamo Bucuresti (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 12.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.2apg, 2FGP: 60.1%, 3FGP: 38.8%, FT: 92.9 in Apr.’23 moved to Mersin BBGSK (Turkey-TBL) averaging 16.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 44.7%, FT: 95.0%. What kind of memories could you take from playing in Romania? How breathtaking was it living in Bucuarest?

I loved that city. It was one of my favorite cities that I lived in overseas. It was a great culture and night life with nice restaurants. Anytime you live in a capital, there is always more to do. It isn´t just go to practice and go home. We visited Dracula´s castle and the largest Spa.

You finished in Turkey having your second tour of duty in the TBL. Talk a little about the TBL. It seems to be a bit underrated in Europe as a second league. Was that a league you enjoyed playing in?

The TBL is a very competitive league. No one can just walk to the rim. It is a battle every night. There are only 2 imports allowed, so there is a lot of expectations on them. The guards are all high level that average 15-20 points per game. Their locals are also really talented. I think that locals from other countries like Czech Republic first division are as good as Turkish locals in the TBL: I was able to develop further as scorer and playmaker and run the team.

In the 21-22 season you played with Budo Gemlik Basketbol (Turkey-TBL) averaging PPG-3 (22.6), 4.0rpg, 4.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT-8 (92.2%). How vital was this season in your career? It put you on the map and was your break out season overseas.

Yes that was my break out season. That season allowed me to showcase what I can do with my game. We were a young team with mostly 18-20 year olds. I was young myself as well at 23. I took full advantage of the situation and led the team. I really worked hard that season on my game and diet.

You played the 20-21 season with MBC Mykolaiv (Ukraine-Superleague) averaging 11.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT-8 (91.5%). This was the season before the war broke out. How do you remember this season of the court? Do you remember building long lasting relationships with Ukraine folk?

I didn´t form long lasting relationships, but I still keep up with some guys on social media. The Ukraine people were all nice and friendly. The life style reminded me of old Russia. It was a real adjustment early on as no one knew English. The first month there, I was the only American and the system was in Russian. The Ukraine was one of my toughest seasons, but I made the best out of it.

You played your rookie season with Polpharma Starogard Gdanski (Poland-EBL). You only played 3 games. You remained 2 months and then headed home. How tough was this season. Did you have doubts then about the overseas grind?

It was a tough situation in Poland to start my pro career. At first I looked at the situation in a odd way thinking is this how it will be like overseas? But then I thought that this was just one situation and the next could be better. I saw a light at the end of the tunnel. I actually went home and then played a month in Albania. That information isn´t on eurobasket.com. It was a tough rookie season, but I realized I had to dig out of the hole the next year. And I did.

In the summer of 2019 you played 3 NBA Summer League games with The Utah Jazz. How do you remember that experience? What special advice did you get from the coaching staff?

The NBA Summer League is great. It is a special event and being part of it was an honor for me to show my game on that kind of stage. I´m really happy that I got that opportunity. The coaching staff was big on me. They saw me as a young talent and told me to keep working hard and wanted to stay in touch. I had some G-League opportunities, but I didn´t want that. I wanted to go overseas and make more money.

You played at Fairleigh Dickinson University (NCAA) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 127 NCAA games and really broke out in your last season seasons averaging 14.5ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 94.4% and 16.6ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 47.7%, FT: 88.7%. What kind of a player did you transform into the last 2 seasons there?

I was a real worker there. I was in the gym all day and was using the shooting gun Dr Dish. I was totally locked in. The shooting gun would print out the shots you took and made. The whole locker room and my locker was full with those tickets. I was fortunate that upperclassman left and I was allowed to take control of the team. We went to March Madness. It was great times. I proved myself right and others wrong.

You won the NEC title twice and reached March Madness in 2019. You hit Prairie View A&M for 33 points. What memories do you have of that great game?

I just remember when the buzzer went off, I understood that we had just won the first game ever in school history at March Madness. I just remember everyone was hitting me up. My phone was flooded with messages. I was interviewed by Reggie Miller. Everyone was so excited on the flight to Salt Lake City to play Gonzaga. I remember landing at 2 or 3 Am and everyone being so happy.

How did head coach Greg Herenda groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I will always remember the lessons that he taught us. I won´t forget when he said “Don´t wait to be great”. If the opportunity is there, step into the role and do it with all you got. The practices were always intense and he always held me accountable. He expected a lot out of me.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Darian Anderson?

We never really play 1-1 like that. I would say though that our battles were about 50/50.

Who is the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Jalen Brunson then of Villanova. He wasn´t even their go to guy as they had guys like Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges, Ryan Arcidiacono, and Donte Divincenzo. But Brunson was my match up. He was already so poised then and super solid.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Me, Bryce Brown, Dante Ingram, Tony Farmer and Jordie Tshimanga

Who are your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Shaq

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

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

Yes they should of. The second one didn´t do the first one justice.

Thanks Darnell for the chat.

Shaking JJ Reddick’s Hand And Observing Luka Donic Work Out Were 2 Memories Of Erik Timko’s( BK Armex Decin) Time With The South Bay Lakers Before Heading To Luxemburg

Erik Timko (196-G-2002, college: Delaware) is a 196cm guard from Pennsylvania that is playing his second pro season overseas with BK Armex Decin (Czech Republic-NBL). Last season he played his rookie season overseas with the at Kordall Steelers Rodange (Luxembourg-LBBL) averaging (26.7ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.9apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 87.3%. He began his basketball career at Methacton high school. He then played 3 seasons at Jefferson University (NCAA2) averaging 21.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT: 91.0%, 22.5ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 59.6%, 3PT: 45.2%, FT: 89.1% and 19.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 65.3%, 3PT: 43.7%, FT: 88.0%. He then finished at the University of Delaware (NCAA) averaging 11.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 88.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

At the moment I am at home in the States and basketball life is going well. I am just training and working out in order to get better and prepare for the season ahead!

You played your rookie season with the Kordall Steelers Rodange (Luxembourg-LBBL) averaging Score-2 (26.7ppg), 7.1rpg, 1.9apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 87.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wakeup call was really my first week out there and how quick things moved in terms of getting off my flight and practicing with the team that night and then playing my first game a week later. My teammates, coaches, and club helped me make that adjustment smoothly and were very welcoming when I arrived and helped me get settled

What kind of an experience was it coming from Division 2 and division 1 ball and totally dominating the league in Luxemburg. Was the level of play more similar to division 2 ball?

It’s hard for me to compare exactly, but I really enjoyed playing in the Luxembourg league this year and I learned a lot. Wherever you go there are different play styles and tendencies, so it was great to learn a little more about the play style in Europe and how it is similar in some ways and different.

You played a crazy and somewhat strange playoffs series against Etzella losing game 1 by 39 points and won game 2 by 3 points, but lost game 3 by 40 points. From the score one would think the team didn´t come to play in game 1 and 3. What happened in that series?

Etzella is a very good team and they showed it with the playoff run they put together and winning the championship. I feel like in those two games we didn’t shoot the ball great and we allowed them to go on big runs and especially when a team is playing at home, you can’t let them go on a big run because it’s even harder to battle back. As a team we played hard throughout and competed at a high level and gave it all we had.

How tough was losing that series especially after you had a career high as a pro scoring 46 points in the first meeting in the regular season?

It was definitely tough losing that game and seeing our season come to an end. It wasn’t tough because of the performance I had during the regular season, but it was tough because we battled hard through the season and had many ups and downs and we worked hard to get into the playoffs and be in that position, so seeing it come to an end was definitely tough.

How content were you with your game? You never averaged so many points and rebounds as an average in your previous college career.

I was grateful that I had the ability to play the way I did, but I am never content with my game. I always feel like I have more to improve upon and more to show. I know this is just the beginning and that I need to keep working hard and improving if I want to reach my goals.

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

I really like to watch Devin Booker play because we play similar positions and I am a big fan of how he gets to his spots on the court and his ability to create for himself and his teammates. I also like how he can score the basketball at all three levels.

You can score the ball really well and rebound and are an incredible 3 point shooter. Whatever attributes does your game have?

Some other attributes I feel my game has includes my instinct on the court and high IQ for the game, playmaking for others, scoring at all three levels, playing out of the pick and roll, versatile on defense, being a good teammate, and wanting to win.

You averaged 42% from downtown in 4 years in school at the division 2 and 1 level. But as a rookie you shot 36% from outside. How do you rate your development as a shooter now after 1 pro season under your belt?

I am confident in my ability to shoot so even though I shot 36% this year which isn’t bad, I know I can shoot in that 40% range just as I did in college and I am confident I will get back to that mark. I also don’t consider myself solely a 3pt shooter, but feel I can score in other ways and at all three levels even if my shot isn’t falling one game or the other.

How would you rate your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I feel I am a good defender, but I want to be a great defender. I can guard 1-5 and I think I am a very versatile defender and play good team defense. I want to keep improving in terms of my on ball defense along with my overall defensive intuition and being even more physical at times while still being disciplined and not fouling.

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

I am really working on getting stronger and more athletic as well as playing out of the pick and roll. In addition, I am working on attacking off the dribble and my change of pace as well as my footwork both in the paint and on the perimeter, along with getting a lot of shots up.

You began your rookie season with the South Bay Lakers (NBA G League). What kind of an experience was that? You were one of the final cuts. What positives could you get from that experience?

The South Bay Lakers experience was very beneficial. It was a unique experience and one that I am very grateful for. It taught me a lot about the NBA game and the pro game overall and how it differs from the college game in some ways. I felt it helped me get better because I was able to compete against high level guys and players who even had experience in the G-League prior. I felt like it prepared me and helped me grow as a player and I felt like I was able to build meaningful connections during my time there as well

You must of met some legends during your time there. Was there a player or former player where you had a meaningful meeting or interaction that you will never forget?

One interaction that I remember was meeting JJ Redick and shaking his hand, but I think just being around the Lakers team since they train in the same facility as the G-League team was a really cool memory. Being able to see some of the guys such as Luca Doncic for example, work out and get shots up was very cool and it showed me just how skilled they really are, but also what it takes to be great.

You had an incredible 3 year career at Jefferson University (NCAA2) where you won the CACC title in 2024. What kind of a player did you become there?

My time at Jefferson really helped me grow as a player. Being there taught me hard work and resilience. It also taught me many different skills that I use in my game today such as playing off two feet, reverse pivots, and much more. My coaches pushed me to be the best player I can and really helped me grow into the player I am today. My teammates are also a big reason for the player I am today. We all pushed each other on the court and supported one another

You won the 2024 CACC title. What was so special about that run?

Winning the CACC title was very special. It was special to win the title because we lost in the finals the year prior. It was also one of our main goals as a group at the beginning of the season and it was special to win a championship as a senior with the other seniors who I came in with as a Freshman

You had so many incredible scoring games scoring 30 + points in numerous games. What was your fondest moment at Jefferson University?

My fondest moment at Jefferson University was winning the 2024 CACC title game and being able to achieve that goal of ours as a group.

How vital was head coach Jimmy Reilly in your early basketball development? How did he help your game further?

Jimmy Reilly was huge in my early basketball development. He believed in me and gave me a chance to come to Jefferson and he saw in me the player I could become. He pushed me everyday in practice and held me accountable all the years I was there. He always explained the importance of hard work and resilience and being tough which are all qualities I pride myself upon. I had and still do have a great relationship with him and he is someone I could go to and talk about anything. He helped my game further by showing me how effective playing off two feet and using my pivots and ball fakes were. Which are all things I have improved and built upon since I entered college and use even more now in my game as it has grown.

You then finished at the University of Delaware (NCAA) averaging 11.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 88.2%. You needed no adjustment period coming from the NCAA 2. What was your fondest moment there? You had some great games against Misericordia, Stony Brook and Delaware State.

My fondest moment at Delaware was our conference tournament run that we went on and being the 12 seed in the conference tournament and making it all the way to the championship game, being one win away from the NCAA tournament, before we lost to UNCW. I will never forget that run and how much joy it was to win each game and make that run in March

A How did head coach Martin Ingelsby give you that last vital push and groom and prepare you for a pro career?

Coach Ingelsby helped me grow as a player by giving me the opportunity to come to Delaware and be a part of a great program. He believed in me and allowed me to play my game and be myself. The whole staff including Coach Ingelsby was great and really helped me develop as a player in many ways.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Niels Lane?

Haha, I don’t remember specifically playing Niels 1v1 or who won if we did, but I know we worked out together multiple times and we would have great battles and push each other in practice everyday.

Who is the toughest player that you ever battled in your career that reached the NBA?

Jalen Duran of the Detroit Pistons

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

Thanks Erik for the chat.

2026 NBBL Champion Matheo Hermann Had Never Experienced A Better Team Chemistry In His Life Than That Team Had

Pic credit: Flotograf

Matheo Hermann (196-F-2007) is a 18 year old 196cm guard that will play for the Hakro Merlins in 2026-2027. Last season he played for Pro B team Lok Bernau averaging 2,1ppg and Alba Berlin NBBL (U-19) team averaging 11,2ppg, 2,6rpg, 2,5apg and 1,2spg. He also played ANGT twice and the last time averaged 11.5ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 21.7%, FT: 90.0%. He helped Alba Berlin capture the NBBL title in 2026. He spoke to germanhoops.com after winning the 2026 NBBL title.

Thanks Matheo for talking to germanhoops.com. Talk a little about your basketball roots and how you got interested in basketball?

I used to play soccer, but lost interest in it and started playing basketball after my old head coach in Friedenau discovered me on an outside court.

Where did you play before playing with Alba Berlin?

I played at Friedenauer TSC

When did you come to Alba Berlin?

I came to ALBA BERLIN in my second year of JBBL

You won the JBBL title. What was so special with that team?

I think we were very competitive and everybody had a good understanding of what their role was.

Who were your early basketball inspirations on the court?

I used to watch a lot of Kevin Durant, but also in Europe, Lorenzo Brown

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

I would probably see Derrick White because of his elite defensive and the ability to shoot the ball on a high level

Talk a little about your offensive game. Your not the massive scorer, but are very athletic, defends at a high level and loves the open court. How would you describe your offensive game best?

I would say I have the ability to make the game a lot faster when I’m on the court and knock down shots from outside at a good level, but also be aggressive in attacking closeouts and finding my teammates out of the pick and roll.

You shot 36% from outside in the NBBL in 2 of the last 3 years and once 23%. How would you rate the current development of your outside shot? What do you need to establish to make it even more consistent?

I work on my shot a lot. I think consistency on paper will come naturally as I keep working on shooting out of the dribble and challenging myself in practice in order to make shots even when the ones before did not fall.

You’re a very aggressive defender. Talk about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I think right now I am able to guard from 1 to 4 because I have the ability to use my length, but also athleticism to stay in front of people and not be physically in a disadvantage. I think in the future I will become even more physical, which is the number one priority defensively for me.

On what areas of your game will you work on most this summer in order to continue to improve your game?

I will work a lot on shooting off the dribble in the mid range, but of course also behind the three-point line, reading defenders even better in order to attack closeouts or find my teammates and get a lot more physical.

In the 2023-2024 season you lost a tough 3 game NBBL playoffs series against Vechta. What will you always remember from that brutal 3 game series?

I think those games will always be tough, but it’s a learning experience and moments like these will always help to be a better player.

You also played ANGT that season and lost a brutal 118-46 game to FC Barcelona that featured many great players like Dame Saar and Mathieu Grujicic. What did you personally learn from that tough loss?

I think I saw the difference in physicality and athleticism that you don’t really face in Germany, which motivated me a lot because it showed me where I need and want to be.

In the 24-25 season you had your first experience with Lok Bernau and also averaged 7.5ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 55.2%, in the NBBL and played also at ALBA Berlin U18 team (ANGT) averaging 11.5ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 21.7%, FT: 90.0%. You reached the NBBL Top4 but lost to Ulm. Was the Ulm depth better that season? What was key for not being able to reach the final?

I think Ulm showed a lot of effort and will to win that game and eventually the difference maker was how much do you want it. I think me and all of my teammates know that we could have given that extra 1% more, which would have probably changed the outcome of the game, but like I said, I think these games are a learning experience, and every player on that team is glad to have went through that situation.

You played ANGT again and scored in double figures well in all games. You lost badly again to FC Barcelona and Olympiakos, but what could you personally take with you from this experience?

It was a great experience for me because I felt like I could showcase the work that I had put in and overall it’s always good to play against that good of a competition to understand where you might need to improve or what you might need to specifically work on.

This season you finally won the NBBL title over ratiopharmUlm. How special was it winning it this time?

It was very special, I think we earned that win and every single person on this team did everything they could to make that dream come true and this year it was us, who showed more effort, which is great to see after losing to Ulm last year.

Was depth and team chemistry something that was very key for Alba Berlin winning the title?

For sure, I think it was one of the best chemistries I have ever experienced in a team, which obviously plays into how much trust we have for each other. Also, the fact that every single one of the players on this team was able to stand on the floor and make an impact is eventually what gave us a huge advantage in both games in the top four.

You gave your team big impulses in the wins over Frankfurt and Ulm and filled the stat sheet really well. Was your combined 2/11 shooting something that will give you big incentive to work more on your shooting this summer?

I think that’s part of the game and the main focus for that weekend was to help my team secure the championship. Obviously there’s always something that could’ve went better, but as somebody who is very competitive and probably my biggest judge, I also need to realize when it’s important to put the ego and pride aside and focus on what’s actually important.

The team was so special from players 1-12, but talk about Anton Kemmer and Finn Borczanowski? How special were these 2 guys for the success?

I think they’re both very talented players. It was very fun to be able to work with them this year and the years before that, I think they have developed very well and I’m excited to see what the future holds for them.

You have now played 2 seasons with Lok Bernau. You haven´t averaged more than 2,0ppg. How did you see your development in the Pro B?

I think this year and last year were a huge learning experience. being able to get on the floor for a short amount of time, and trying to make an impact somehow helped me grow as a player, but also mentally.

You played 1 BCL game and practice with the Alba Berlin team. What 1-2 players had the biggest impact on you form the easyCredit BBL team?

I think the way Justin Bean approaches the game is very inspiring and it really helped me to stay positive and be in the right mindspace even when things are not going my way.

What is the next step for you? Will you remain in Berlin, or possibly go to the NCAA?

I think, whatever the best situation for me is, will be the situation I will choose to be in.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

Probably Nolan Traore

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Dorian Grosber, Tidiane Ly, Jonathan Conrad, Noah Isichei, Eric Nkoué

Please name your NBA and German Mount Rushmores of 4 best players of all-time?

1. LeBron James

2. MJ

3. Kobe

4. Steph Curry

1. Dirk Nowitzki

2. Dennis schröder

3. Franz Wagner

4. Isaiah Hartenstein

Who is your GOAT?

Kevin Durant

Thanks Matheo for the chat.

Getting Injured And Battling Future NBA Player Isaac Bonga In Frankfurt In 2018 Began Ron Mvouika´s(Art Giants) Love Story With Germany

Ron Mvouika with Steph Curry

Injuries is always something that pro athletes dread. It is something that could lead a career in the wrong direction or even end it. In the case of Congo forward Ron Mvouika (196-G/F-1991, college: St.John’s) it actually did end the season for him, but at the same time it was the start of something very lovely in his career. In January 2018, I witnessed the second to last pro B game of Isaac Bonga against the Bayer Giants Leverkusen and Ron Mvouika who exploded for 30 points and Pro B career high carrying the Fraport Skyliners Juniors to the easy 81-65 win. Bonga was on his way to being drafted by the NBA the following summer and was getting extra experience playing games for the farm team that season in the Pro B. Bonga was very much on my radar that season so at times it was difficult to notice other basketball stories, but I was fully aware of another young player named Ron Mvouika who popped up on my radar having played for NBA hall of famer Chris Mullin with St Johns only a few years earlier. Mvouika had had experience in France and UK before coming to Germany. 8,5 years later he remembers this game and Bonga as if it was yesterday for a very special reason. “We had our first interview after that game. I remember being told that Bonga had NBA talent. At first it was hard for me to believe it, because I had battled guys like Josh Hart and Jalen Brunson only a few years earlier in the NCAA. But when I found out that he was 17, I could believe it. He did a bit of everything. He was never in a rush and I saw he had the chance to be really special. He got my ultimate respect after that game. That was also the game where I hurt my shoulder and was injured. That kept me in Germany for the next 6 months and started my love story with Germany”, remembered Ron Mvouika.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Ron Mvouika at BCM in Frankfurt in 2018

Some years had past, but I saw Mvouika again in 2022 when he played in the Pro B for the RheinStars Cologne and again in 2023 when he was a spectator at the Pro B final in Cologne when the RheinStars played against the Dragons Rhondorf. I had had him on my radar for years, but the past memories came out of nowhere again recently when I read the press release by the Art Giants Dusseldorf announcing his arrival back in the Pro B after 4 years away from the pro game. Why did he venture into semi retirement in 2022? “I took some time off to be more with my family. My second child was on the way in 2022 when I was with the RheinStars. I had had the same situation in 2019 when my first child was born. I had a great offer in the UK and took it. That messed me up and then came Covid. I didn´t want to go through that again a second time. That is why I stopped playing and stayed with my family”, said Ron Mvouika. In the last 4 years, he remained in Germany in Cologne and I thought he was a kind of diplomat for the country Congo on account of seeing that Lotola Otshumbe who is a basketball workaholic in Cologne had him listed in his phone contacts as president Cologne Congo, but boy was I wrong. “A good skill of mine has always been networking. I have always been good with connecting with people. I took a kind of spiritual route and did many different things. I had some businesses, helped send kids to basketball academies and also had a music label. I followed visuals and my dreams and tried different things. However I was also still connected to basketball. I had a small venture playing in China, but it was never documented. The money was good, but I was far from my kids. I never stopped training and was always ready for the next opportunity. I never lost a beat”, warned Ron Mvouika.

Ron Mvouika and Chris Mullin

He had played 6 seasons in countries like France, UK, Germany, Austria and Luxemburg and 4 years later suddenly was back again ready to battle in Germany with the Art Giants Duesseldorf. Was the itch to play again so big that he couldn´t refuse that offer? “I had offers last season, but I didn´t want to leave my kids and wife. I have to give a big shout out to Stephan Baeck who let me use the RheinStars practice facility whenever I wanted to. I was in the gym every day and helped train guys during the summer. If It wouldn´t have been for the opportunity and grace of Baeck, it would have been a different story. I had the privilege to use their gym and it helped me a lot to stay in a professional setting”, stressed Ron Mvouika. There were two distinct reasons with his family and head coach Robert Shepherd why he signed with the Art Giants Duesseldorf. “I had always had in mind for my family and kids see me play. I have seen it all in my career from great gyms in the NCAA and flying around in private jets. Many don´t understand that basketball is a business. I came overseas and always had to prove myself. I was burned out in 2022. Now coming back, my motivation was different and that had to do with Robert Shepherd. We had many similiarities and similar backrounds. We both had new opportunities. It was an easy marriage for me. I still have a lot of gas in my tank. I didn´t do it for the money, but the opportunity to help push this program forward”, commented Ron Mvouika. It also helps that he has been in Germany for a long time. Is it like a second home for him now? “It is my main home now, but Paris is home. I really appreciate Cologne, because it is big and small at the same time. Germany has always had a reputation of being cold, but for me Cologne is warm. I never traveled much in Germany and only really know the NRW area. I like the food in Germany and the simplicity of all. Paris feels like your going 100,000 miles an hour. Paris is mentally different. In cologne I can go to the park and listen to music”, laughed Ron Mvouika. It will be interesting to watch how the relationship of Mvouika and head coach Shepherd will grow with time. “He is my man. We already have a strong relationship now. I don´t think that I have ever had a coach where I was able to lock in with so well. We have constant contact. He will call me in Paris to check in. I will be a bridge between him and rest of team. We have a good open relationship. He gave me this opportunity and I will ride and die for him”, warned Ron Mvouika.

Ron Mvouika and Carmelo Anthony

He will turn 35 in November, so how good will he still be able to be now having been away from the game since 2022? “I almost signed in Paris last season. I´m old school. I started to play when I was 5 and have been playing almost 30 years. Training has always been a lifestyle. I´m a master of my craft and am always sharpening it. I have played basketball in three continents and have picked up so much from many coaches. My IQ is really high. I slow down the game now and play with my head instead of only running around and wasting movement”, stated Ron Mvouika. He compares his game to Paul George and does his game reflect that of a Swiss army knife? “That was my nickname so often in my career. I know how to adapt to giving a team what it needs most. I score with heart, but I love to pass and create. I never have had a big ego and just give a team what it needs most to win”, added Ron Mvouika. He may not have the quickness on defense that he had 10 years ago, but will be able to shine in other ways. “Key is having a good IQ at both ends and playing defense with my mouth. I scout on the court. Playing defense is like a boxing match. I try to do everything to put the opponent in tough situations”, explained Ron Mvouika. So on what areas of his game did he work on most this summer, so he will be best prepared in the Pro B in 2026-2027? “I worked most playing 5-5 and getting back into the flow of passing the ball. I have worked so much on individual skills in my career. Now I focus a lot on the mental part. I make mind work challenging and try to beat you mentally. I also worked on my shot. I have always been a shot maker. My shot is my breakfast”, warned Ron Mvouika. He is also really motivated to help the young players with his veteran leadership. “I think that at the end of the day what matters the most is giving knowledge. I need to inspire. If I can help anyone get better, then that is my job. People won´t remember stats, but remember if you were a good man. I will give my wisdom on an doff the court”, said Ron Mvouika.

Ron Mvouika and Klay Thompson

He will be playing for his third organization in Germany and still has fond memories of his early days with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen and being teammates with fellow versatile player CJ Oldham. “I watched him play a lot the last years when I was inactive. He mastered that flat shot. He is a great player, but even more a better human being. He was never in trouble. I actually saw him a few months ago”, said Ron Mvouika. He was very fortunate to have played for American basketball legend Chris Mullin who gave him so much vital advice like learning a specific role and treated him like a pro from day one. “I will never forget when he told me that guys in the NBA who have the longest careers are the role players. Do you think that a guy that averaged 20 points in college will do the same for the Timberwolves beside Anthony Edwards? It isn´t about how good one is, but how much money you make. He taught me that you have to be good at every position. I remember running the point at St Johns against Villanova and Jalen Brunson. The next game, I would play the 3 and the next game the 4. He would throw me into the water at any position. You need to be great at what you do. If you can play multiple positions well, then it will be hard for a coach not to play you”, stated Ron Mvouika. Does he still have contact to Chris Mullin today? “I mean there are some guys that you have in your phone that you won´t just call, but I know that if I really needed to get a hold of him I could. I have a really good relationship to Greg St Jean an assistant for the Lakers. I´m sure that he will be a head coach soon in the NBA. I have that feeling and had the same kind of feeling about Jacques Schneider when he was an assistant in Leverkusen. I always knew that he was special and become big one day”, warned Ron Mvouika. His toughest cover in the NCAA was Kris Dunn, but Fred Van Vleet also was one that he never forgot. “Fred was never in a rush and was always under control. He wasn´t the most athletic or the quickest, but always knew what to do. He had a high IQ, hit shots and just made the right play. He was able to do it all without speaking. He could become slick and give a quick reply and mention that you couldn´t guard him”, smiled Ron Mvouika. As a Bostonian and Celtics fan, I had to ask him if he could give me some assuring words that Paul George will be able to replace Jaylen Brown in Boston despite his age and help me block out all the negativity in Boston about this trade. “If you ask anyone in his generation, kids will say he is their favorite player. If he is healthy, there is nothing that Brown can do that George can´t do. George is a killer. He has no weakness on offense. He is a 3 level scorer. I´m excited what he will do in Boston”, warned Ron Mvouika. So when will Ron Mvouika see CJ Oldham again? Oldham has played 9 seasons in the Pro B and perhaps the 2 will meet again this season. When they do, both will have a special 1-1 topic to talk about. “CJ knows exactly who will win a 1-1 match between him and I. I would have won in 2018 and would smoke him in 2026”, laughed Ron Mvouika. I´m sure CJ Oldham will be fired up for a 1-1 duel in 2026 with Ron Mvouika.

Dragos Diculescu’s Game Foundation Is His Versatility And IQ That Will Allow Him To Impact Winning For The EPG Baskets Koblenz This Season

Dragos Diculescu (196-G/F-1999, agency: One Motive Sports) is a 27 year old 196cm guard from Romania playing his second season in Germany and first with Pro A club EPG Baskets Koblenz. He played his first season in Germany in 2024-2025 with the BG Hessing Leitershofen (Germany-Pro B) averaging 18.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 4.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 63.1%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 74.1%. Last season he palyed with the Koping Stars (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 16.1ppg, 5.7rpg, 4.1apg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 87.4%. He began his basketball career in his native Romania and palyed with teams like Steaua CSM EximBank Bucuresti (Liga Nationala), BC Timisoara (Liga Nationala), and SCM CSU Craiova (Liga Nationala. He then played 2 seasons with Landstede Basketbal Zwolle (Holland-DBL). He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Dragos for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. After a season in Sweden, your back in Germany. What kind of a relationship did you personally get when you played in Leitershofen 2 seasons ago?

First of all, I’d like to thank you for the opportunity to do this interview. I’m grateful for the platform to share my thoughts, my mentality, and a little bit more about who I am as a player and person. As for returning to Germany, it was a decision that felt very natural to me. I had a great experience here before, and I’ve always viewed German basketball as one of the strongest and most professional environments in Europe. The level of organization, the quality of the competition, and the opportunities for player development make it a great place to grow. I have ambitious goals for my career, and I believe Germany is a country where strong performances are recognized and where players can continue taking the next steps in their development. At the same time, it’s simply a great place to live and work as a professional athlete. When the opportunity to return came up, I was genuinely excited because I felt it aligned with both my personal and professional goals.

You reached the final in Holland some years ago and are still looking for your first pro title. The EPG Baskets are surely a team that won´t win the title. Why did you chose to join the EPG Baskets Koblenz?

Winning a championship is definitely one of my career goals, but I’ve always believed that championships are the result of a much bigger process. My focus is on becoming the type of player who can consistently contribute to winning at the highest level. In basketball, the margins are incredibly small, and there are many great players who have had championship-level careers without necessarily winning a title every season. My goal is to keep developing into a championship-caliber player, and I trust that success will follow. As for Koblenz, I never choose a team with the mindset of limiting what is possible. Every team I’ve joined, I’ve joined with the intention of competing and winning. Of course, there are teams with bigger budgets or different expectations, but budgets don’t play the gamesplayers do. First, we have to focus on building something strong and reaching the playoffs. Once you’re there, anything can happen. More importantly, I felt that Koblenz was the right environment for me to continue growing as a player and as a person. I had a great feeling from the conversations with the club and the coaching staff, and when you find a place that aligns with your goals and values, there is no reason to keep looking elsewhere.

How did the talks go with head coach Stephan Doehrn. What did you appreciate right away about his basketball philosophy?

I really enjoyed my conversations with Coach Stefan. We had discussions last year as well about a potential collaboration, and even then I got the impression that he views basketball in a very modern and professional way. What stood out to me was his vision for building a team and the principles he wants that team to be built on. It felt like a healthy environment with a clear identity, which immediately appealed to me. I also felt that the role he described was a very good fit for my strengths as a player. More than anything, I’m excited for the opportunity to learn from him and better understand his perspective on the game. There’s definitely a lot of curiosity and enthusiasm on my side, and I’m looking forward to working together.

How excited are you to be teammates with Ferenc Gille again? What do you appreciate most about his game?

Ferenc and I built a strong connection the first time we played together because we shared a similar view of the game and a genuine desire to keep improving. We both had a growth mindset, spent a lot of time talking basketball, and I really enjoyed seeing how our chemistry developed throughout the season. What I appreciate most about him is his consistency, energy, and team-first mentality. He’s one of the most reliable teammates I’ve played withsomeone who brings experience, professionalism, and always puts the team’s success ahead of individual recognition. I’m really excited to share the court with him again. We created a lot of great memories together the first time around, and I’m looking forward to building on that in the season ahead.

The club sees you as being one of the leaders on the team. How do you feel comfortable of having that type of responsibility in your first Pro A season in Germany?

I’ve always been a vocal, high-energy player, and I’ve been fortunate to take on leadership responsibilities throughout different stages of my career. Because of that, leadership is something that feels natural to me, and I’m excited about the expectations and responsibility that come with this opportunity. At the same time, I believe successful teams have multiple leaders. Leadership isn’t carried by one person aloneit’s shared among players, coaches, and people throughout the organization. Personally, I’ve never been afraid of responsibility. Every season and every challenge brings lessons that help you grow, whether things go well or not. That’s why I approach this role with excitement rather than anxiety, and I’m looking forward to contributing both on and off the court.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm swing man. If you had to compare your game to a Euroleague player, who would best fit the description?

The most natural comparison would probably be Marko Guduric because we’re both left-handed and share some similarities in the way we see the game, especially in terms of playmaking and versatility. At the same time, I’ve never tried to model my game after just one player. Throughout my career, I’ve studied a lot of EuroLeague players and tried to take small elements from each of them. Some things fit naturally, some don’t, and that’s part of the process. For me, it’s never about copying someone else’s gameit’s about learning from the best and using basketball as a constant library of ideas. Those lessons can come from EuroLeague stars, former players, teammates, or even younger players. I’m always looking for ways to improve, but ultimately the goal is to build a style that is authentic to who I am as a player.

You’re a very versatile player and also have a very high IQ. You were close to a triple double last season in Sweden against BC Lulea. How valuable are these qualities in your game?

I believe versatility and basketball IQ are two of the foundations of my game because they allow me to impact winning in different ways. Every game is different, and my goal is always to give the team what it needs most. Some nights that means creating for teammates and making the right reads, other nights it means scoring, rebounding, or taking on tough defensive assignments.

I’ve never viewed basketball only through points or statistics. For me, it’s about helping the team win, whatever that requires. That’s why I’m constantly working on every aspect of my game, trying to become as complete and reliable a player as possible for any team I represented.

Early in your career you shot 50% from outside with BC Timisoaraand a few years ago in limited action 45% with CSM Constanta. How do you rate the development of your three pointer? How big of a goal is it reaching that 40% plateau?

I think percentages can be a useful reference, but they can also be misleading if taken out of context. Shooting numbers are always influenced by things like shot volume, role, and shot selection, so it’s important to understand the situation behind them rather than just the final number. For me, the focus is less on hitting a specific percentage threshold and more on the quality of my decision-making. As my role changes and I take on more responsibility, the number and difficulty of shots can also change, which naturally affects efficiency. What I try to control is taking the right shots within the flow of the game and making good decisions on when to shoot, when to pass, and how to create the best outcome for the team. I trust the work I put in and my ability as a shooter, so I focus more on maintaining high-quality shot selection and consistency rather than chasing a specific percentage.

Talk about your defensive game. Where would you rate yourself as a defender right now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I think defense is often viewed too much through an individual lens, when in reality it’s one of the most collective aspects of basketball. Over the years, playing in different countries and systems has helped me develop a better understanding of team defense, communication, rotations, and the importance of being connected as a unit. As a defender, I try to bring consistency, communication, and a strong understanding of the system. I take pride in being vocal, knowing my responsibilities, and helping teammates be in the right positions. At the professional level, effort and discipline are just as important as physical tools. Of course, like every part of my game, there is always room for improvement. That’s why I spend time studying film, analyzing mistakes, and looking for ways to become more effective. My goal is the same as it has always been: to be a player who contributes to winning, and defense is a big part of that.

On what areas of your game will you work on most this summer so you can continue to improve as a player?

In the summer, I think it’s important not to try to improve everything at once, because that usually leads to losing focus. Instead, I try to identify a few key areas and really commit to them. For the first time, I also know quite early what my situation and role might look like for the next season, which helps a lot in structuring my work. At the same time, I’m in ongoing conversations with the coaching staff, because I don’t just want to work on what I personally feel I need, but also on what the team will need from me. So my approach is to combine both perspectives: my own development priorities and the system I’m going into. I try to understand early how I will be used, and then prepare specifically for that role so I can arrive already adapted and ready to contribute from day one.

Thanks Dragons for the chat.

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