Zyon Patterson (201-SF-2000, college: HSU) is a 25 year old 201cm forward playing his second season overseas with German Pro B team EB Baskets Schwelm. He began his basketball career with Crossett High School. He played at 2 Juco schools with The Arkansas State University Mid-South (JUCO) averaging 3.5ppg, 2.3rpg and with Eastern Oklahoma State College (JUCO) averaging 12.7ppg, 6.1rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 71.7%. He then played 2 years at Henderson State University (NCAA2) averaging 8.0ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 68.3% and 15.7ppg, 7.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 68.2%. He played his rookie season with NTD BH Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL) averaging 9.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 3.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 17.9%, FT: 69.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Zyon for talking to germanhoops.com What has been your coolest experience as a basketball player overseas or in the States that you will never forget?

I would say probably one of the coolest experiences I had in basketball was in junior college. It was a group of boys that were really big fans of me and one of their parents made them a Twitter page just so they could message me and tell me that they love me as a player and they hope I make it to the NBA and then after junior college they’ve kept up with me so it’s been about 4 or 5 years now and they still message me asking me how I’m doing And that’s a really cool thing to me is just having you know random support and they really do have a deep regard for me as a person and a player.

Your playing your first season with the EN Baskets Schwelm. What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about it?

It has been a really good experience for me so far. I love the atmosphere and the dedication of our fans and support here. It’s a very homey feeling because it’s a smaller town and everyone you know puts a lot of thought into the team and the players and that would probably be the thing I enjoyed the most is just the crowd and the atmosphere of the fans, especially for home games.

The team is having a solid season. It defends well and does a good job taking care of the ball. The team seems to be very disciplined. How vital is head coach Falk Moeller for achieving this?

#Coach Falk is very important to our success. He gives us the game plan and it’s really up to us to execute. He’s more of a coach that allows players to play and he prefers us to be player lead so I feel like that builds a closer bond between each and every one of us.

A big success of the team is the defense. What is the biggest strength on the defensive end?

I feel our biggest strength on defense is just playing team defense. We all just play our parts and help one another, which allows us to get stops on that end. We try to be aggressive defensively but I feel like this year when we run our matchup zone, It has been very vital to us, especially if we’re having trouble defending 1 on 1 or playing a poor shooting team, just the versatility of our group allows us to be a solid defensive team.

The team has a real good leader in German Marius Stoll. How defined are your leadership skills in this setting?

I feel like I have a pretty important role as far as being a leader with me being our leading scorer a lot of the decisions I make affect my teammates, not only me so I try to be the best version of myself so that they have the motivation to be the best versions of themselves. My teammates allow me to play my game and be a very aggressive player offensively and defensively which has helped us thus far this season.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm player. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

This one is a tricky question. I have been compared to quite a few players one being Brandon Ingram another Kevin Durant another Paul George I’ve even been compared to Shai at times. My favorite comparison is Kevin Durant because that’s my favorite player, but I feel like my game looks more like Brandon Ingrams than anybody else’s.

Usually the American import player is the main scoring threat on a Pro B team and has to do everything for the team. Would that classify your role this season?

I would say I have a important role like that, majority of games I have to be the offensive leader and a lot of times I guard the best player from the other team as well just because I am able to be a two-way player and I take being a two-way player seriously I enjoy scoring and dominating offensively as well as stopping my match up. I developed this in college under Coach Elgas because almost every game. I always guarded the best player and I also was our leading scorer in college as well.

You fill the stat sheet very well. How big of a staple is versatility in your game?

I feel like my versatility as a player is a very big staple in my game. I enjoy the responsibility of having to defend top players as well as still contributing offensively as our leading score. It can be challenging sometimes, but I enjoy it.

You were a pretty good three point shooter at Henderson State at 35%, but have dipped the last years. How would you classify the development of your three pointer at the moment and where do you still want to bring it?

I would say the selection of threes that I have shot in recent years has caused a dip in the percentage, but majority of this season I have shot close to 35%. I have had a few rough games three point percent wise here recently, but in the coming days it will rise again. I just have to prepare myself better before the shot and remember my mechanics even the smallest things like holding my follow through.

You’re a defender that can guard many positions. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I feel like I’m a very versatile defender as of right now I think I can guard one through five. I use my mind a lot more than I use my body. I’m very athletic and have a great timing whether it is steals or blocks. I play passing lanes very well and I play help side good as well. I wish to improve my on ball skills so that offensive players find it hard to breathe when I’m guarding them.

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

-My three-point percentage has dipped so that’s been a very important factor when preparing here recently especially with me being a very ball dominant player this year I’m trying to improve not only my catch and shoot threes, but my three is off the dribble as well. I’ve also been working on reading the game better and understanding it, studying it. I understand that mistakes come with the game, but the more comfortable I become with making reads and the better I understand the game the less of those I will make.

You have had many great dunks in your career. What has been your favorite?

My favorite would probably be against Southwest Oklahoma State University. I did a Euro step dunk and dunked on two people.

Last season you played with NTD BH Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL) winning the cup averaging 9.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 3.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 17.9%, FT: 69.4%. What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake up call honestly was when I got off the plane and I made it to my apartment. I come from a very small city called Crossett Arkansas and a lot of people don’t exceed outside of Crossett so just me being in a new country for the first time ever was a wake up call for me not being able to go see my mom or dad at the blink of an eye and everyone else speaking a different language will definitely open your eyes.

How vital was it having so many Americans on the team for your adjustment time? Did you have a mentor last season? Guys like Allen and Campbell were ultimate veterans.

I feel like those guys definitely were important to me as a player and having other Americans around, definitely helped me mentally not only on the court. A mentor that I would say I talk to a lot especially pertaining to basketball was Detrek Browning. I also talked to the other guard, Tyree Boykin, and the big Kevin Allen as well. Honestly, all of our vets were very important for my growth mentally as a rookie.

After your high school career, you played a season at The Arkansas State University Mid-South (JUCO) averaging 3.5ppg, 2.3rpg. How tough was this season? You had real growing pains as a player. What did you learn about that season?

The season was a very tough one for me. I found it very hard to gain confidence as a player, and I was rather intimidated from where my other teammates had came from even though I could compete with the best of them. I didn’t know how to adapt my first year of school, which ultimately made me perform at such a poor level.

You then moved to Eastern Oklahoma State College (JUCO) averaging 12.7ppg, 6.1rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 71.7%. Was this one of the best basketball decisions in your life?

Going to Eastern was definitely a very good decision for me especially during this time I grew as a player and as a young man and Coach Scott Edgar allowed me as well as my teammates to be ourselves and just to play basketball. Which also helped me continue to grow as a player because it’s important that you never stop growing.

Every guy I have interviewed who played Juco have said that it was a real grind, but one that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

Whoever told you that was not lying I say the same thing as well. Juco is definitely a grind and it will really show you if you love the game or not it can be very difficult. Especially where I was because we were in the middle of nowhere but the bonds I created and the level I gained in my game I wouldn’t trade for the world.

How key was Scott Edgar in your basketball development there? How did he help you grow as a player?

Coach Scotty was very important in my development mostly physically when I arrived there I was roughly 167 pounds and when I left, I was close to 190, but also as tough as he was as a coach, he made it easy to play for anyone else he will probably be one of the toughest coaches I ever played for, and even though he was very hard on us he would always take care of us.

You then played 2 years at Henderson State University (NCAA2) averaging 8.0ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 68.3% and 15.7ppg, 7.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 68.2%. You made huge strides as a player there. What kind of a player did you become there?

My first year at Henderson was an adaptation. I didn’t really understand how to be the player. My coach was wanting me to be off of the bench but later in the season, I think the last seven or eight games my average went from 8 points per game to 18 points per game. I led my team in a first round upset as well with 22 points and 8 rebounds it was a period where I had to find myself again. As far as my senior year I understood before I came in that I would be our best player and one of our leaders so I tried my hardest to be that throughout the season I was our go to guy which allowed me to put up the numbers that I did, but I also did other things, especially from the wing position I was a very good rebounder.

You had many great games at Henderson State, but you how special was your 38 point explosion against ECU in the slim 89-86 win? What will you always remember most about that game?

It was definitely a special moment and very exciting. We really needed that win in order to stay in playoff contention so the fact that we were able to win it and I was able to perform so well made a special moment for me. What I will remember most about this game in particular is my mom pacing up and down the bleachers throughout the whole game.

How did head coach Jimmy Elgas give you that last push in preparing you best for a pro career?

Coach E helped me most of all in becoming a better man and a better leader. He always was on to me about being verbal and being vocal, which really helped me prepare for my professional ventures. I didn’t understand it at the time, but as I’ve played, and I’ve grown it all started to make sense.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Ryan Boyce?

Haha Me for sure.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in your career that reached the NBA?

Probably the best player I’ve played at on any level would be center Daniel Gafford who plays for the Mavericks. We used to always play them in high school. Also in college I would have a big matchup with a draft pick from this past year Taelon Peters who was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in the second round.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Detrek Browning Nigel John Tomislav miholjcic Kevin Allen Jalen Lynn

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant

Who is your GOAT?

Kevin Durant

Tylan Pope (198-F-2001, college: Texas St.) is a 198cm forward playing his rookie season with the Bozic Estriche Kirchheim Knights currently averaging 13,4ppg, 5,2rpg, 1,2apga nd 1,2spg. The Louisiana native began his basketball career at Franklinton. He then played 3 years at Tulane University playing 80 games. He then played a season with the The University of Nevada (NCAA) averaging 3.6ppg, 2.2rpg and a season with Texas State University at San Marcos (NCAA) averaging 16.4ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 80.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.

Thanks Tylan for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with German Pro A team Kirccheim. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

Thank you, I’m grateful for the opportunity and excited about this next chapter with Kirchheim. I know Germany is a country that takes pride in structure, discipline, and doing things the right way and I see that reflected in their approach to basketball too. German basketball has really been on the rise. The national team winning the World Cup recently shows how far the country has come in terms of talent and development.

Have you had any former teammates, or opponents ball in Germany?

No, I actually haven’t had any former teammates or direct opponents play in Germany, at least not that I know of. But I’ve definitely followed the league and done my research. I’ve watched highlights, followed teams online, and paid attention to players who’ve built strong careers there.

What were the main reasons for starting your pro career with the Knights? What was most appealing to you about the organization?

The main reason was the connection I felt through my conversations with the head coach and my agent. The coach was clear about his vision, how he sees me fitting into the system, and the kind of role I could take on. That honesty and belief really stood out to me.

How did the talks go with players coach Igor Perovic? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

The talks with Coach Perovic were really solid. From the start, he was clear, direct, and intentional about what he’s looking for in a player and what kind of team culture he’s building. I appreciated how honest he was—it wasn’t just about selling me on the program, it was about making sure I understood the expectations and the role he saw for me.

You had a great last NCAA season with Texas State. How do you feel will your game translate best to overseas basketball?

I think my game translates really well to overseas basketball because I bring a mix of toughness, discipline, and basketball IQ, things that European teams value a lot. At Texas State, we played a physical, defensive-minded style where every possession mattered, so I’m used to competing in low-possession, high-intensity games.

Let´s talk about your game. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I’d say my game is a mix of Charles Barkley and Aaron Gordon. Like Barkley, I play bigger than my size. I’m physical, aggressive on the glass, and not afraid to bang inside. I bring that same motor and toughness, and I know how to impose my will and create mismatches. At the same time, I relate to Aaron Gordon in the way I can run the floor, guard multiple positions, and play above the rim.

You’re a 198cm forward. You’re an undersized big, but can play the positions 3-5. Versatility is a big part of your game. Have you always had it or did that develop more in the last few years?

Versatility has always been a part of my game, but it definitely sharpened over the last few years. Early on, I played mostly as a traditional big, rebounding, posting up, and protecting the paint. But as the game evolved, and as I grew as a player, I had to expand my skill set.

What other strengths does your game have besides that versatility?

Outside of my versatility, one of my biggest strengths is my motor. I play with consistent energy, whether it’s crashing the boards, sprinting in transition, or making second and third efforts on defense. I take pride in doing the things that don’t always show up on the stat sheet, like setting solid screens, rotating on time, or diving for loose balls.

You broke out as a 3 point shooter last season shooting 33 times. Is a goal of yours to continue to try to increase your volume of shots attempted while having a high percentage?

Definitely. Expanding my range has been a big focus for me, and last season was a step in the right direction. Hitting threes consistently opens up the floor not just for me, but for my teammates too. I know that being a reliable threat from the outside makes me harder to guard and adds another layer to my game.

You demonstrated that you can block shots at Tulane and Texas State. How would you describe your defensive game now and where do you still want to go as a defender?

I’d describe my defensive game as physical, disciplined, and versatile. I’ve always taken pride in protecting the rim and using my timing and instincts to block shots, even as an undersized big. Over time, I’ve developed into a defender who can switch onto multiple positions and I can guard in the post, hold my own on the perimeter, and make smart rotations on the backside.

You played 3 years at Tulane. How do you remember those years. You had a special role. Talk a little about how you saw your game develop there under Ron Hunter?

I look back at my time at Tulane as a major part of my growth not just as a player, but as a competitor. Playing three years there gave me the chance to really understand the college game and learn how to bring value in different ways. Coach Ron Hunter challenged me to embrace my role and take pride in the things that make winning happen. He gave me the freedom to be aggressive defensively and trusted me to make smart decisions. Over time, that trust allowed my confidence to grow, especially in reading the game and understanding my value on the floor.

You played a season with Collin Holloway. What will you always remember from your battles with him in practice?

Me and Collin played under the same coaches in high school for AAU and he has always been a special player since then. Practicing with Collin was always competitive, every day was a battle. He’s a strong, skilled player who plays with a lot of pride, so going up against him pushed me to stay sharp and bring my best every time we stepped on the court.

You had some great games at Tulane. What will always be your fondest moment at Tulane?

For me it was when I was in my last season and we played the University of Memphis on the road that day after my birthday and it was a dog fight but we managed to pull the win out in overtime.

You then played a season at the The University of Nevada (NCAA) playing 21 games averaging 3.6ppg, 2.2rpg. You played under Steve Alford and averaged 9,5 minutes per game. What positives could you get from this season?

That year at Nevada was a different experience for me, but it was still a valuable one. Playing under Coach Alford, I learned a lot about efficiency, how to make the most out of limited minutes and stay ready at all times. It taught me how to impact the game in short spurts, bringing energy, crashing the boards, defending hard, and taking advantage of my touches offensively.

You had your break out season at Texas State University at San Marcos (NCAA) averaging 16.4ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 80.4%. With what kind of a mind set did you have going into the season? Did you feel like it was a make or break season?

I approached that season with a mindset that it was make or break. I knew it was my opportunity to show everything I had been working toward over the years. I had been through different roles, different systems, and different levels of responsibility, but at Texas State, I felt like I had the platform to really lead and play my game freely.

You had many great games at Texas State at San Marcos, but where do you rate the double OT win over James Madison where you recorded 23 points?

It was the best game I ever played. Even though there was a pressure of the other team potentially winning a championship on your home court, we came together as a unit and never gave up. And it being our senior night and our families were there.

How did head coach Terrence Johnson groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach TJ played a huge role in preparing me for the next level. From day one, he treated the program like a professional environment. He held us accountable in everything, how we practiced, how we prepared, how we carried ourselves on and off the court. That structure and discipline helped me develop habits that translate directly to a pro setting. What stood out most was how much trust he put in me. He gave me the freedom to lead, to be aggressive, and to grow through both successes and mistakes. That level of responsibility forced me to mature quickly. He challenged me to think about the game at a higher level. to study film, understand matchups, and be a two-way player that could be relied on every night.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Joshua O´Garro?

Me ofc lol

Who was the toughest player that you faced in your career that reached the NBA?

Drew Timme and Isiah Stewart

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Tyrel Morgan, Christian Turner, Jwan Roberts, Tyler Powell, Snookey Wiggington

Please list your NBA Rushmore of past or present heads?

Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron James

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

No I didn’t lol. They should have left it alone lol, Some things just don’t need to be touched lol

Thanks Tylan for the chat.

Keith Braxton (196-G-1997, college: SFU) is a 28 year old 196cm guard from New Jersey playing his fifth pro season and second in Germany and first with Science City Jena currently averaging 13,1ppg, 5,3rpg and 2,8apg. Last season he played with the VfL SparkassenStars Bochum (Germany-ProA) averaging PPG-2 (19.5), 6.2rpg, 4.9apg, SPG-5 (1.7), FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 74.3%. He played the 23-24 season with KFUM Jamtland Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 11.0ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.8apg, SPG-1 (1.7), FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 82.4%. He played the 22-23 season with Belfius Mons-Hainaut (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 12.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 3.0apg, SPG-5 (1.9), FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 81.8%. He played his rookie season with Maccabi Ma’ale Adumim (Israel-National League) averaging 19.0ppg, 8.2rpg, 5.3apg, SPG-3 (2.1), FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 80.3%. He began his basketball career with Delsea high school and then played at St. Francis University (PA) (NCAA) from 2016-2020 playing a total of 129 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Keith for talking to germanhoops.com. After playing your first 3 pro seasons in Israel, Sweden and Belgium, your now playing your second season in Germany in Jena. Has Germany become like a second home for you?

Germany has kind of become home because it has given me stability and I like the professionalism here. Teams are competitive, teammates are great, and it’s a great location to continue to grow my game.

You had to pay your dues for 4 seasons overseas, but now are playing in a top 5 league with the easyCredit BBL. How rewarding has your grind been?

The grind has been tough, but definitely rewarding. I’ve been in Israel by the beaches, in Sweden in the snow, and in the BNXT which is another good league. To be back in one of the top leagues is where I want to be, but I have to keep working and getting better.

Your playing your first season with Science City Jena. How vital was the fact that they were playing in the easyCredit BBL for you to join the team?

It was very vital for me. I wanted to get back to a top league and prove that I cannot only compete with the best of them, but also win as well.

How did the talks go with head coach Bjoern Harmsen? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

Talks with Coach Bjorn went well. We were both excited to work together and make something happen in the BBL. I appreciate his attention to detail the most about his philosophy. Small things can make a difference and he’s adamant about doing those things right.

Last season Bochum won the first game against Jena where you scored 27 points, but in the next 4 games lost by more than 10 points each time. What memories do you have of the battles with Jena? You were 0/7 from outside in the first 2 playoff games.

They were great battles that we had last season. I remember us winning at home and the environment was crazy. I also remember the playoff series and the energy that was in the arenas. I never would have thought that the crowd that was cheering against me would be rooting for me the next season.

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

I wouldn’t say it’s a comparison, but I like Luka Doncic. I like players that can do a little bit of everything. Luka can score, pass, rebound, and plays at his own pace. Those are all things I like to do, as well as play defense.

You fill the stat sheet like no other. Is versatility the staple of your game?

Versatility is a huge part of my game and style. I like to do whatever I can do to help my team win. Some nights your shot might not be falling and you need to help your team in other ways. I pride myself on being good at many different aspects of basketball and it separates me a little bit so I can play many roles.

You are a great scorer, rebounder and passer. What other strength is key in your offensive game?

Another strength to my offensive game is my basketball IQ. I can see what angles

I have to take and read defenders the right way. Being one step ahead and being reactive is huge to being able to do what you want on the court.

You have been at 35% or better from outside overseas and once reached 40%. What is your goal as a shooter in the BBL?

My goal as a shooter in the BBL is to be in the 50-40-90 club. It’s a good goal to strive for and will make me work hard and be consistent to achieve it.

Your also a great defender. What kind of a defender would you call yourself now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become in the next years?

I would call myself a smart defender. I have good anticipation and know when to be in the passing and driving lanes. I want to become a physical defender. I want to pick up full court and make things difficult for the opponent.

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

I’m working on my full court defense and making more difficult shots off the dribble. I have to be a pest and I know there will be few opens shots in the BBL.

In the 2023-2024 season you played with KFUM Jamtland Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 11.0ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.8apg, Steals-1 (1.7spg), FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 82.4%. What kind of an experience was Sweden? You lost a tough 5 game series against Boras?

Sweden was tough for me because it was the first time I came to a team mid season. I had to fill in a role and help the team win. The league was solid and I learned a lot from the coaches and players.

You played a season with Belfius Mons-Hainaut (Belgium- BNXT League averaging 12.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 3.0apg, Steals-5 (1.9spg), FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 81.8%. You won 2 playoff series and then lost to Mechelen. What memories do you have of that tough playoff series?

I just remember the series being physical and tactical. They were a good team and deserved to win. I remember how all of our guys left it on the line and played like it was their last game.

You played your rookie season with Maccabi Ma’ale Adumim (Israel-National League) averaging19.0ppg, 8.2rpg, 5.3apg, Steals-3 (2.1spg), FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 80.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I remember getting to my destination early in the morning and I was ready to call my parents and tell them. However, I was 7 hours ahead and they were all asleep.

How important was having this great season for your basketball development? You had a triple double against E.Kiryat Ata. How did your game grow as a rookie?

It was very important to start my career off right for my basketball development. My game grew as a rookie because my basketball IQ grew and I learned European basketball. It’s a little different from college, so getting a early grasp on it helped a lot.

You played at St Francis (NCAA) from 2016-2020 reaching 3 Nec finals. You were as consistent as could be. Did you learn gaining that consistency in your game there? Your consistency has been present since your rookie season overseas.

Yes I learned a lot about consistency in college. Coach Krimmel was huge on showing up and winning every day. Each day was a new opportunity to get better and prove yourself again. I give a lot of credit to him for teaching me to stay ready so I don’t have to get ready.

You had many great games at St Francis like registering a triple double against Fair Dickinson. You were close to triple doubles on 2 other occasions against St Francis NY and Lehigh. What was your best game in the NCAA?

My best game is college was probably my sophomore year against ranked Louisville. I had 25 points and 11 rebounds and that really gave me a confidence boost that I could be a great player.

In your second season you played against Duke holding your own with 13 points and 6 rebounds and battled future NBA guys like Bagley, Trent, Carter and Allen. What memories do you have of that game?

I just remember that game being a packed crowd on a small court. Everyone was going crazy and it felt like the college video games. It wasn’t a close game at all, but playing against Duke, NBA players, and shaking Coach K’s hand was something I won’t forget.

How did head coach Rob Krimmel groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Krimmel taught me how to be a leader and to be aggressive and confident in my game. He gave me tools to lead and always put me in the right positions to learn and grow. He used to get mad at me when I didn’t shoot and instilled so much confidence in me. Confidence, leadership, learning are crucial for a professional career.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Isaiah Blackmon?

I was the 1on1 champ my first 3 years of college but Isaiah finally dethroned me my senior year.

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

The toughest player I played in college was probably Marvin Bagley. I played the 4 my first 2 years so guarding him was really tough. He ended up being a lottery pick so being assigned to him was a good challenge.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Tra Holder, Charlie Moore, Jamaal King, Isaiah Blackmon, and Mike Holloway

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul Jabbar

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron James

Did you see the remake of the classic coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

I have not actually. I don’t know if that’s a sign that I shouldn’t have, but I am a firm believer that they should leave classic movies alone.

Thanks Keith for the chat.

Predrag Lukic is a German/Serbian coach who was in Asia the last 10 years coaching various teams and currently is a youth development & assistant coach of the HAKRO Merlins Crailsheim. He came to Asia in 2016 and coached BC Rise Sport Foshan (China, Guangdong province). He also coached clubs like Chongson KungFu (China-ASEAN League), Thang Long Warriors (Vietnam-VBA), NSH Mountain Gold Timika (Indonesia-IBL), Nhatrang Dolphins (Vietnam-VBA), DNA Bima Perkasa Jogja (IBL). He began his coaching career in Germany coaching teams like Baskets Luedenscheid (Germany-2. Regionalliga), BG Hagen (Germany-Regionalliga), GiroLive-Ballers Osnabrueck (ProA), TSV Quakenbrueck Dragons (Germany-2.Bundesliga) women team, ChemCats Chemnitz (Germany-DBBL) women team, Basket Oberhausen (Germany-DBBL) women team, Wolfenbuettel (Pro B) and Buergerfelder TB (Germany-Regionalliga). He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

You have been part of HAKRO Merlins Crailsheim since March 2025. After ten years as a professional head coach in top Asian leagues – Indonesia, Mongolia, China and Vietnam – why was this the right moment for a change?

After ten very intense and successful years in international professional basketball, I was consciously looking for a new challenge. It was important for me to find a club with top-level structures, good people and a clear vision, while also allowing me to balance my two main passions – basketball at a high level and my family. I found exactly that at HAKRO Merlins, which is why the move in March 2025 felt absolutely right.

What convinced you most about joining HAKRO Merlins Crailsheim?

From the very beginning, I felt that this club works in a very professional, structured and at the same time human way. The organization, the long-term vision and the people involved convinced me immediately. I am extremely happy to be part of such a renowned traditional club, especially in a special year as the Merlins celebrate their 40th anniversary. That says a lot about the identity of this organization.

You signed a four-year contract as a youth development coach. What are your main objectives?

My clear focus is on developing the U18 and U19 programs in a sustainable way. It’s about building strong structures and continuously raising the level of player development. One long-term goal is to bring the club back to the NBBL. Even more important, however, is building a real bridge between youth basketball and the professional team, especially since I am also working as an assistant coach with the pros. especially since I am also working as an assistant coach with the pros.

How important is this connection between youth development and the professional team?

It is absolutely central. Young players need to understand early what is required at the professional level – on the court, mentally and personally. Through my dual role, I can directly transfer those standards. The close daily collaboration within the coaching staff, including Bogdan Radosavljevic, Ingo Enskat and David McCray, helps us establish one clear basketball philosophy throughout the entire club.

What makes working at HAKRO Merlins special for you on a personal level?

It’s the combination of tradition, professionalism and people. With Martin Romig as the club’s founder and now Lukas Lienert a very strong culture has been built over the past 40 years. What he has created is exceptional and deserves the highest respect. For me, this role is not just a job, but a long-term project where I truly feel I can make an impact.

How would you summarize your experience since joining the club in March 2025?

Very positive. I feel completely settled here, both professionally and personally. It was the right decision, and I’m really looking forward to the coming years – developing young players, working closely with the professional team and taking the next steps together with HAKRO Merlins Crailsheim.

With your experience as a head coach, how do you fit in with the classic role as assistant coach to coach with David Mccray? Does he take advice on and how do you believe have you helped him develop?

My role in the Pro A team is to be the bridge between the youth development to get them the best way into pro level. To work with McCray who brings basketball experience from his long career in BBL as player is very nice cooperation together, I am happy to have met him and hopefully together we can already this season celebrate the promotion up back to BBL.

The Merlins are holding their own in 3rd place. How big is the desire to move back to the easyCredit BBL and can this year´s team finally get over the hump?

It´s the goal, and I do believe we can make it this season. Of course if all stay healthy and the little luck you need for it as well.

I have always enjoyed Tyrese Blunt. How special is he and how far is he from reaching the easyCredit BBL?

I agree, I enjoy also to see his effort every day at practice and games. Young potential guy, who surely will have soon the chance to get next steps in BBL, of course with us

How do you feel have you grown as a head coach now with the dual duties with the Pro A and U-18 and U-19 teams?

I’m very grateful to the Hakro Merlins for the trust they’ve placed in me with this responsibility. Having the opportunity to lead both the in the Pro A team and the U-19 programs has been an important step in my growth as a head coach. It has allowed me to develop further as a leader, sharpen my organizational and communication skills, and align short-term performance with long-term player development. I truly appreciate the confidence the club has shown in me and I’m motivated to continue giving my best to help all teams progress.

Please name your German/Serbian MOUNT Rushmore of 5 best players of all-time?

Germans surely: Dirk Nowizki and and Andy Obst.

Serbians: Dejan Bodiroga and Pedja Stojakovic and Nikola Jokic

Also please name your Coaching Mount Rushmore of 5 best coaches of all-time for you?

Svetislav Pešic, Gregg Popovich, Zeljko Obradovic, Dirk Bauermann and Rick Pitino

Thanks Predrag for the chat

Bernard Pelote (203-F-2002, college: WCU) is a 23 year old 203cm forward from Georgia playing his rookie season overseas with German Pro A team Tigers Tuebingen averaging 15,8ppg and 4,6rpg. He began his basketball career with Woodville-Tompkins High School. He then played 2 seasons at Catawba College (NCAA2) averaging 7.4ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 40.8%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 76.2% and 13.7ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.1apg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 78.9%. He then palyed 3 seasons with Western Carolina University (NCAA) averaging 5.5ppg, 3.2rpg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 61.5%, 6.9ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 61.0%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 80.0% and in his last season averaged 13.8ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 70.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.

Thanks Bernard for talking to Germanhoops.com. How blessed do you feel to play overseas? Not many guys who played in the NCAA 2 get this opportunity?

I’m just thankful to be in this position to keep pursuing my dream because everyone don’t get this opportunity to play professionally so I’m just excited and hungry to turn my dream into reality.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

I don’t know much about Germany from a basketball standpoint but I heard that it is very physical and fundamentally sound type of basketball.

Have you ever had ex teammates, opponents or friends play in Germany? Did you get feedback from your coach Justin Gray?

Coach Justin Gray basically told me that it is physical and fundamental and you have to be willing to play and flourish in your role.

I´m sure you did some research on the Tigers Tuebingen. What stood out the most about this organization?

I like how engaged the fans are with The Tigers Tuebingen Organization. I love playing somewhere where the fans want us to be successful as bas as we want to be successful.

How did the talks go with head coach Henrik Sonko. He told you that he wants the team to play like a family. What else was appealing about his basketball philosophy?

One of the factors that was also appealing to me about Coach Henrik Sonko is that he was looking for me to basically play my game. We both feel like my game matches his philosophy. I just have to go out on the court and play the same way I’ve been playing and of course keep growing and learning more efficient ways to make easier for me and my teammates as well.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm power forward. If you had to describe your game to a NBA player, who would best fit the description?

From a NBA Standpoint I would compare myself to a guy like PJ Washington. A guy that rebounds defensively and offensively, plays defense and can stretch the floor out on the offense of side with my ability to shoot.

Would it be fair to say that you’re a modern day big man? How valuable is versatility in your game?

I wouldn’t really say I’m a big man. I’m whatever the coach needs me to be in order for us to be successful. My versatility place huge role game because I feel like you can put me anywhere on the court and I will still produce.

You have had a solid three pointer in the last 2 years. How would you rate your development in the lasty ears? What is your goal as a rookie with your shot?

With my Development, I just had to trust the process and stay in the gym and keep working. For me it was never a matter of “will it happen”, instead it was more so “when it will happen”. My goal as a rookie is to establish myself and gain respect from my teammates and the league we are in with my style of play and how I perform night in and night out.

I saw a thunderous alley-oop dunk from you against Citadel. Are you a type of guy that can give your team instant energy with dunks?

Yeah I´m type of guy to make highlight plays. I can’t wait to get my first one in a Tigers Uniform !!

Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of a defender do you want to become in the next few years?

Defensively I feel like I am a solid defender but of course there is always room to grow. I feel like I have to grow in the area of being in passing lines a bit more.

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

I’m working on not being one dimensional and being unpredictable.

You played 2 seasons at Catawba College (NCAA2) averaging 7.4ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 40.8%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 76.2% and 13.7ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.1apg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 78.9%. You made big strides in your game in your second year. How vital was head coach Rob Perron for your early basketball development?

Playing for Coach Rob Perron was fun. He gave me a chance to grow and adapt to playing in college. He gave me a chance to play through my mistakes as a freshman.

You had huge games against Anderson, Limestone twice and UVA Wise just to name a few. What was your fondest moment there?

Playing against those teams were great because in those particular games my teams trusted me to knock down shots and make plays to put us in position to win.

You then played 3 years at Western Carolina University (NCAA) playing 91 games and in your lasty ear averaged 13.8ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 70.3%. How did your game grow in these 3 years?

Being at western Carolina really helped my game and gave me a chance to compete at the division 1 level. Over the course of three years I got the chance to become an overall better player because I was to adapt and grow mentally and physically to perform well against the teams I was playing against. I feel like my first year was like a test to see if I was ready for the division 1 level and the 2nd and third was a lot being able to produce and put my team in good situations to win every time we played.

You had big games against Citadel and Milligan. What was your fondest moment on the court in the NCAA?

My fondest moment at Western Carolina was my Junior when we beat Vanderbilt University because they are a power 5 school and too go in there in a hostile environment and take care of business was very fun. I feel like those are the moments you live for as an athlete.

How did head coach Justin Gray groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Justin Gray´s system and how he coached is very professional. He always kept it pretty simple. He made me look at basketball as my job. He had standards that we had to uphold and I had to come with it everyday in practice and show up at games.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Collin Granger?

I beat Collin Granger a lot of times in 1v1.

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

Kam Jones or Chaz Lanier

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I don’t really have just 5 best teammates of all time because I feel like a lot of my teammates in the past played a significant role to my success.

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

Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant

Who is your GOAT?

My goat is Michael Jordan but my favorite player is Kawhi Leonard because he keeps it simple and he is very efficient.

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

I saw the movie and I actually liked it, I feel like it always good when you can come out with sequels to movies that was made a long time ago.

Thanks Bernard for the chat.