KJ Sherrill (203-F/C-1991, college: Augusta) is a 34 year old 203cm forward that enjoyed a 8 year pro playing career overseas. He played with the Bona Baskets Limburg, the SG Luetzel-Post Koblenz (Germany-Regionalliga), Dragons Rhondorf, Telekom Baskets Bonn 2 team, Herten and the Cuxhaven BasCats (Germany-ProA). He played college ball at Charlotte (NCAA) from 2009-2012 playing 75 NCAA games and also played a season at Augusta University (NCAA2). He was an assistant coach with the Dragons Rhondorf from 2023-2025 and now is an assistant with Pro A team EPG Guardians Koblenz. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his birthday.
Happy Birthday KJ. You turned 34. Your in your third season as a assistant coach and technically could still be playing age wise. After 3 seasons away, do you think like you could mix it up again if you had to? Thank you Miles for the birthday wishes. I’d say skill wise, I’m still capable of playing for sure. Endurance wise, I’m cooked lol. I’d have to do at least 2-3 months of intense training just to build my wind back up.
What do you miss about the game most? What else is there to miss besides the competition and being teammates with guys? Competing would be the thing I miss mostly of course. Game preparations and team building on-off the court with the guys you put in work with daily. I miss the relationships you gain along the way with the guys.
As a pro were you usually already overseas. Did you ever celebrate any birthday during your pro career in the States?
Since my birthday is always during Preseason, I haven’t been fortunate enough to spend my birthday with my family in the States in about 11 years.
How do you usually celebrate your birthday in Germany? Is it any different than the way you did in the states as a kid? Here in Germany since I never have time to celebrate my birthday properly, my girlfriend and friends do a great job of helping me celebrate with a nice dinner. I don’t need anything extravagant as I did as a kid.
How do you remember celebrating your birthday as a kid? Was there a special tradition in the Sherril family?
My birthday’s as a kid were typically how everyone else’s were. Nothing out of the ordinary. Parents would have a birthday party/Cookout and invite the whole family. They’d shower me with gifts and we’d play games and eat great food. Couldn’t ask for anything better than that.
What do you remember being your favorite birthday present as a kid? My best birthday gift as a kid would have to be a Mongoos Bicycle with pegs. Back then, those were the bikes we saw Tony Hawk and other sports figures riding. I thought they were the coolest thing ever!
Did you have a favorite cake as a kid and what kind of cake do you like to have in Germany during birthday time? My favorite cake back home would have to be Red Velvet Cake from my Aunt Tootsie. Here in Germany I always have my girlfriend bake me a cheesecake. Cheesecake would be my 2nd favorite out of cakes
Did your coaching colleagues do anything special for your birthday or was it just happy birthday young buck? We had our test-game on my birthday against Giessen. I wasn’t able to celebrate my birthday with my colleagues but we were able to win a tough game against the very experienced Giessen team. I’d say that was the best way I could possibly celebrate my special day.
What is your biggest birthday wish as an adult in 2025?
My biggest birthday wish would be to have my family visit me here in Germany since they haven’t had the opportunity yet.
At the beginning, I may have been the only one that called Dominique Johnson Dominque. But with time, I got the DJ name plastered into my mind as much as Big Deuce is with Boston Celtic Jayson Tatum. Veteran Dominique ‘DJ’ Johnson played 4 seasons with the EPG Baskets and is a player that will never be forgotten. He was the identity figure for years and was a player that always gave you 180% and played with an intensity seldom or possibly never matched by anyone. In the NBA you knew you would get intensity from guys like Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant or Russell Westbrook while in the German Pro A, you had DJ Johnson. He was a big factor for the EPG Baskets Koblenz winning the Pro B title in 2023 and moving up to the Pro A in 2023. Unfortunately the club didn’t have the desired results in the last 2 seasons and even if there were guys on the team in the last 2 years that didn’t always give their all, DJ Johnson would always give you 100%. DJ Johnson left the team after 4 years and now the club has reeled in a new player by the name of D.J. Jeffries (201-F-1999, college: MSU) who mentions Michael Jordan as his GOAT. And like Johnson, he also goes by the name DJ. Decorian DJ Jeffries is a very talented player that is looking for his pro break through with the EPG Baskets after a tough rookie season in the G-League where he only averaged 1,8ppg. Jeffries is like Johnson a very versatile player and wants to make the EPG Baskets fans proud with his game. ‘Yes obviously I want to make the fans proud of my game. I don’t know the impact that DJ Johnson had on this great country, but I know that I will give my best each and every day to make sure that the fans love me the same way’, warned DJ Jeffries who believes that the Coming To America classic should have been left alone.
DJ Jeffries who lists Brandon Miller and Dalton Knecht as his toughest opponents in the NCAA was born on December 28th, 1999 in Olive Branch Mississippi. He began to play basketball in the third grade and played for Cordova middle school. He grew very fast and was already dunking the ball in the eighth grade. He then played high school ball for Olive Branch. He helped his school win the Class 5A title averaging 20,8ppg and was a runner up as a senior averaging 23,3ppg, 12,8rpg, 5,6apg and 2,6bpg. He was named Mississippi Gatorade player of the year and had the honor to play at the Jordan Brand classic. ‘The memories that stood out was just being the with guys you’ve been playing against since you were younger and just competing and having fun with all of them’, said DJ Jeffries. He then played 2 years at the University of Memphis (NCAA) averaging 10.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 55.5%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 74.3% and 9.9ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 56.2%. ‘I feel like my game grew the most as far as my pace for the game coming in as a freshman everything was just at 100 mph but once I learned pace the game. it got easier for me’, stated DJ Jeffries. In his second season he helped the school win the NIT title. He gave all he had in the final contributing 15 points, 5 boards and swatting away 5 shots. ‘That NIT run was special especially winning the whole thing. It was a year full of adversity and even though things didn’t go the way we wanted it to go with a tournament run I feel like ending the season the way we did was definitely a special moment’, stressed DJ Jeffries. In his 2 years there, he played 47 games and scored in double figures in 26 games including netting 23 points against Ole Miss and 21 points against MVSU. He was very fortunate to learn from NBA legend Penny Hardaway: ‘I mean playing for a legend like Penny is a once in a lifetime experience and you know growing up I use to get compared to him a lot and he just helped me simplify the game for me and just was teaching me to be a pro on and off the court’, remembered DJ Jeffries. He then gained further experience at Mississippi State University (NCAA) playing 3 seasons and demonstrated his great consistency averaging 8.9ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 72.6%, 8.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 42.4%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 56.8% and 6.5ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 59.3%. He helped the school reach 2 March Madness rounds and lost 2 tough games to Pittsburgh and Michigan State, Was there a loss that hurt more? ‘That’s a tough question both of them really hurt but the one that still gets me is the Michigan State one because if I was fully healthy then who knows the outcome but it’s always that what if that sits in the back of your mind and it my last college game ever so it definitely hurt worse’, said DJ Jeffries. He played 100 NCAA games for MSU and scored in double figures in 38 games. He scored 19 points against Winthrop and 18 points against LSU. He had the fortune to play for Chris Jans who was able to groom and prepare him for a pro career. ‘I feel like coach Jan’s helped me grow as man, he taught me self accountability, he taught me a lot of life lessons that I look back at now and realize what he was saying. Of course we didn’t see eye to eye all the time but he definitely was a blessing in disguise in my life that I didn’t know I needed until I got away from him and saw everything he was trying to tell me about’, added DJ Jeffries who never faced teammate Cameron Matthews in a 1-1 game in practice, but would always bet on himself winning.
The Mississippi native who lists Josh Hubbard, Tolu Smith, Cameron Mathews, Deandre Williams, and Alex Lomax as his 5 best teammates of all-time played 1 NBA Summer League game in 2024 for the Memphis Grizzlies and then played his rookie season for the Raptors 905 Mississauga (NBA G League) playing 6 games averaging 1.8ppg, 2.5rpg. It was a season to forget. ‘It was definitely tough because you really didn’t understand the business at the time but the more you go through things you look at it like everything happens for a reason so I definitely learned the importance of being prepared for every opportunity’, warned DJ Jeffries. He also remembers his wake up call to being in the G-League and knows that he will have to be 100% certain if he will ever try that route again. ‘I’ll say my wake up moment would be preparation and learning the pro game and how different it is from what you are used to. I’m not saying I wouldn’t go back if it was the right opportunity but everything has to make sense for me to make that move back’, expressed DJ Jeffries. He is starting his overseas career with German Pro A team EPG Baskets Koblenz. He didn’t know much about the country Germany except that it has great basketball and a great culture. He even knows some guys who like him are in Germany for the first time this season living the dream with Eric Reed Jr, Malcolm Dandridge, and Boogie Ellis. For him it wasn’t tough to chose an ambitious organization like the EPG Baskets Koblenz and is totally content with head coach Stephan Dohrn’s basketball philosophy. ‘I just wanted to go to the best country for basketball and learn and grown my game in the process while learning from my teammates and coaches about the new culture. The talks with coach went really well. He came to me and was like we are a hard nosed defensive team and we play free on the offensive end so that was magic to my ear’, smiled DJ Jeffries. After a very tough rookie season, he is more than just driven to make his pro break through in Koblenz. ‘ I’m more motivated than ever especially since things didn’t go the way I wanted to In the g league but mentally I feel good it’s a fresh start and a new beginning and a new chapter in life to go and prove myself again’, warned DJ Jeffries.
So what kind of a player can basketball Germany await from DJ Jeffries who names Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Shaq on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore? He is a player that likes to model his game after 3 legends with Kevin Durant, Tracy McGrady and Carmelo Anthony. Like them he is a 3 level scorer that can do tons of things on the court. He can fill the stat sheet at ease and versatility really stands out in his game. ‘I think versatility is good especially with my size and abilities you can do so many different things and play many different positions that can make the game easier for yourself and team, you can pretty much play anywhere on the court’, said DJ Jeffries. His three pointer is still a work in progress as he shot the ball near 40% from outside at Memphis, but under 30% at Mississippi. ‘A lot of my shooting is confidence just believing you can make those shots knowing every time you shoot them. Good shooting is all confidence and the more confidence you have the better’, warned DJ Jeffries. He can be that impact player on the offensive end, but also holds his own on the defensive end. ‘I feel like I have growth in my defense I want to be better with my interior defense in the paint I wouldn’t say I’m a shot blocker but I can block shots I feel like I’m a great on ball defender and a great off ball defender’, stressed DJ Jeffries. He is never content with his game and knows exactly what he has to do to reach the next level. ‘In the perfect world I would say my shooting but an honest answer is my whole overall game just being a better player in general’, stated DJ Jeffries. Even if he is only 24 years old, he has proved that he can win titles. His leadership skills could come in handy with the EPG Baskets. ‘I feel like I’m a good leader I’m more of a lead by example then a vocal leader but when I have to use my voice I can but I feel like once I get comfortable and pick up on things I can be an even better leader’, expressed DJ Jeffries. There will never be a second DJ Johnson, but both Dj’s have something in common and that is both are winners. The EPG Baskets Koblenz are in good hands with DJ Jeffries.
Marko Bacak (210-C-1995) is a 29 year old 210 cm center that was born in Berlin, Germany and also has the Croatian Citzenship and is playing his first season with the EPG Guardians Koblenz. Last season he played with SC RASTA Vechta 2nd team (Germany-ProA) averaging 6.0ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 61.5%. In his career he has played for Alba Berlin 2 and played 50 BBL games with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg as well as Eurocup and BCL. He also has gained experience with clubs like the wiha Panthers Schwenningen, Bayer Giants Leverkusen, Artland Dragons, and Trier. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Marko for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome to Koblenz. How good did manager Thomas Klein sell the incredible product EPG Guardians to you?
Thanks Miles for having me! After some good talks with coach Stephan I decided to visit the City and organization by myself. Thomas invited us for Lunch and we had good talks where he described their plan they have for the club for the future. I saw the potential the club has and that helped me in my decision at the end.
The club have struggled the last 2 seasons, but are extremely ambitious and want to reach the easyCredit BBL. What was the main reason for joining this organization? The trust from coach Stephan in my abilities and the potential the club has.
The first talks with head coach Stephan Dohrn went very well. What did you appreciate about his basketball philosophy most? The fact that he knows that first of all you need good guys before talent to be successful. And also knowing the strenghs of his players and giving them a certain amount of freedom.
You played the last 2 seasons against the EPG Guardians in the Pro A. What memories do you have of the games? Unfortunately most of them were negative hahah. With Trier we lost in Koblenz in a packed arena and great atmosphere, after we had a winning streak of 12 wins I think. With Vechta we lost the home game in overtime and in Koblenz we lost by 40 I think.
Your coming to a team where you most likely will be the oldest. How developed are your leadership skills and how else do you feel will you be able to help the team best with your game? I think I can help the team with my experience especially when comes to being a team on and off the court. Knowing that good team chemistry can really lift you up as a team. And on the court just trying to make the right plays and lead as an emotional leader.
How excited are you to be teammates with other talented German big man Moses Poelking? How well do you feel will you 2 guys compliment each other best?
I know Moses for a long time already, playing with him together at Alba Berlin in Regionalliga back in the days. He is great Player, working hard on the court with a good inside game. And a great person off the court!
In the last years you didn´t have as big as an offensive role in Trier and Vechta as in Artland. What do you feel like will your role be this season in Koblenz?
From the talks with coach Stephan I felt a lot of trust from him in my abilities. But I also got to earn my role from the start off the preseason on and forward.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 210cm center. If you had to compare your game to a Euroleague player who would bets fit the description? I would say maybe Johannes Voigtmann, being able to play inside, shoot and play for the team.
You’re a physical big man that can score and rebound. What other attributes does our game have? The last years I have been working on my shot a lot, to be able to space the floor if needed.
You’re a modern day big man. How big is versatility in your game?
It’s very important I would say, because it gives me flexibility depending on which team we play, and which Match ups I am facing.
Your turning 30 this season. On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? Right now I am trying to get stronger and gain some weight. And my shooting of course, getting more consistent with my shot.
Last season you played with SC RASTA Vechta 2nd team (Germany-ProA) averaging 6.0ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 61.5%. How tough was going from winning in Trier to losing in Vechta. What did you learn about yourself in this season?
It was not easy. Everything is easier when you are winning as a team. I learned that you need to focus on the positive things, because otherwise it will be tough especially mentally.
You were able to observe Johan Grunloh. How talented is the German center? He is very talented and a very nice and humble guy! He is a very hard worker doing a lot of extra work when nobody is watching, that’s how He added the 3p shot into his skillset. And he has a great feeling for the game with great instincts.
In the 2023-2024 season you played with the ROMERSTROM Gladiators Trier (Germany-ProA) averaging 4.4ppg, 3.2rpg. What was it like playing with Maik Zirbes? How beneficial were the daily battles in the paint against him?
Since I had to play and pratice on the 4 spot, I did not really had a lot of battles with him. But I can tell you if Maik got you sealed down low it’s game over, there is no way that you are getting back in front. You could really see that he was levels higher when it comes to his game inside the paint.
You played a season with the Artland Dragons (Germany-ProA) averaging 11.1ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 76.4%. You lost 1 4 game series to PS Karlsruhe. What memories do you have of this season?
All in all it was a great season! Even though the Ending was kind of disappointing. Most of the season we were locked in 3rd place and then somehow we lost the last 6 regular season games and ended up at 6th place, having to play Karlsruhe who were rolling at that point of the season. But still we had great guys on the team and a lot of fun! Shoutout to Pat Flomo, he is a great coach and I really hope he will be able to show it in the future, and even more he is a great person!
You played 2 seasons with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen (Germany-ProA) averaging 9.3ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 75.0% and 9.2ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 72.6%. You were very consistent in these 2 seasons. What was your fondest memory in these 2 years? The first season making it to the Pro a finals and earning the right to technically move up to BBL. That year and that team Was really special. Almost nice thinking back to that season.
How valuable was Hansi Gnad in your development? What was the most vital thing you learned from him center to center? I learned a lot from Hansi, especially when it comes to my inside game, but also overall. He was a fan of us bigs also doing a lot of guard stuff which helped us in all areas of the game. Also shoutout to Hansi, great coach and great person!
You played a season with the wiha Panthers Villingen-Schwenningen (Germany-ProA) averaging 10.4ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 77.2%. This was your break through season in the Pro A. How important was this season playing for Alen Velcic? He had 100% trust in you? It was a very important season for me being my first year in Pro a. I saw that I can compete on this level. And the trust I felt from coach Alen was the main reason I went there, and I am very thankful for the opportunity and trust from him. Great and special guy! Unfortunately the season ended earlier because of covid, I think we had a really good chance to make the playoffs and be a kind of “dark horse” team, since we really got rolling at the end.
You began your career with Berlin Sud (Germany-NBBL) and also played with DBV Charlottenburg 2. Do you remember having a mentor in this time?
I would say Christian Steinberg was my biggest mentor in my early days. He pushed me a lot in my younger years making me catch up all the other guys who were playing much longer than me. We still talk to each other on a regular basis and work out in the summers when I am in Berlin.
You then played 4 years with the EWE baskets Oldenburg playing 50 BBL games as well as Eurocup and BCL. How valuable were these years in your basketball development?
Very important. I got used to such a high level of basketball just from practicing with the BBL. And of course getting the chance to play BBL and european competition helped me a lot in my development as a player. Also in my 3rd and 4th year I had the chance to have individual practice with Elvir Ovcina. He helped me so much in developing my game and was like a father figure for us young guys. I am really thankful for meeting him.
You were teammates with some great bigs like Brian Qvale, Dirk Madrich and Rashid Mahalbasic just to name a few. Which player had the biggest impact on you? All of them were great players and I was able to learn a lot from everyone of them. But the biggest impact was for sure from Rasid Mahalbasic. He made everything look so easy. He reminded me so much of Jokic, especially with his passing skills.
You were also teammates with the legend Ricky Paulding. What was your fondest moment with him? I can’t really pick one moment. He was just a great guy. He cheered me up when I made a mistake, he was celebrating when I did something good and many more things. I think I don’t have one negative memory about him. Just a great player, person and leader.
You had many great games with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg including 13 points against Hapoel Holon winning 87-86. What memories do you have of that game playing against ex NBA guys like Glen Rice Jr, or Joe Alexander? Good memories looking back to that game. Rasid Mahalbasic was out for that game so I knew I will get minutes. Offensively everything worked out and gave me confidence. Playing against those guys you could really see what kind of quality they had. You had the feeling they are not even trying 100% and where still able to make a big impact on the court.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career that reached the NBA or Euroleague? Yabusele when I played against him with the U20 Croatian National team. Back then he was already a physical monster. And Hartenstein playing him in Pro B, he was so young back then and already the best player artland had.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time`? Haris Hujic, Lucien Schmikale, JJ Mann, Joanic Grüttner-Bacoul, Dennis Heinzmann
Tough to just pick 5, there have been so many great teammates throughout my career.
Please list your personal NBA and Euroleague Mount Rushmore (5 best of all-time)
Michael Laeky (201-F, college: CCC) is a 201cm forward from Texas that is a professional basketball player. He played his rookie season overseas with US Titans Yerevan (Armenia-A-League) averaging 11.5ppg, 8.3rpg, 2.0apg, 2FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 60.0%, in Feb.’25 moved to Lusavan (Armenia-A-League) averaging 18.6ppg, 7.8rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 83.3%. He began his basketball career with Creating Young Minds Academy and then played at Sterling (NAIA) and Central Christian College (NAIA). He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball
Thanks Michael for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment? Thank you for the interview! I’m currently back in my hometown Dallas, Texas, basketball this summer has been great. I’ve really been pushing myself in the gym and weight room to have a great second year.
How blessed are you to be a pro baller? You never averaged more than 2,0ppg in a NAIA season, but still got 2 jobs overseas last year?
I’m truly blessed beyond measure. In college I never really got the opportunity to show what I was capable of as a player, and once I got that opportunity as a pro I never looked back.
How tough does the grind of having a stable overseas career continue? You had a solid rookie season in Armenia, but are still unsigned for the 2025-2026 season. Why do you believe is that? In sports there’s a lot of politics and I just try to control the things that I can control, and whoever decides to take a chance on me this season won’t regret it.
Do you feel your history of being an NAIA player and not have overwhelming stats have hurt you this off season?
I think it might have hurt me when I was first coming out of college, but now that I’ve proven I can play at the professional level it’s starting to become more irrelevant.
How key has Bayi Handy been in helping you progress in your overseas journey? He’s been absolutely amazing! He’s very confident that I have the tools to be a successful player and now I have to continue to show that. I’m truly grateful for Mr. Handy and can’t wait to see what opportunities will come from his event!
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the bill? There’s a lot of players that come to mind, but I think my best comparison would be Cameron Johnson of the Denver Nuggets. Like him I’m a 3 point shooter with great size that can also play great defense and rebound.
You’re a player that fills the stat sheet very well. How big is versatility a part of your game? Versatility is a big part of my game. Before being a versatile player was popular, I always tried to expand my game when I was a younger player. Because of that I’m able to play the 2-4 on the court and be a really nice asset for my team.
You are a very good three point shooter. How would you describe the development of your three pointer? You shot 40% in Armenia last season?
I’ve always worked on my 3 point shot since I was a kid. When I was younger coaches would try and keep me from shooting threes, this was before the game changed into players taking a lot of threes. But I would continue to work on my shot behind the scenes and would become a great 3 point shooter.
Talk a little about your defensive game. Does your versatility also play a role as a defensive player? Oh absolutely! The same way I didn’t want to be limited as an offensive player also applied to the defensive end. I can play the 2-4 and I’m also able to guard the 2-4. I love hitting shots but getting stops on defense makes me just as happy.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so that you can continue to improve your game? I’m definitely trying to become a better ball handler. Once people know I can shoot the ball I want to be able to have a counter when they press up by creating my own shot or creating opportunities for my teammates.
Last season you split time in Armenia with US Titans Yerevan (Armenia-A-League) averaging 11.5ppg, 8.3rpg, 2.0apg, 2FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 60.0%, in Feb.’25 moved to Lusavan (Armenia-A-League) averaging 18.6ppg, 7.8rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 83.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? I would definitely say physicality. The referees over there let players play for the most part and aren’t quick to blow that whistle
What kind of experience was Armenia on and off the court? How did your game grow overseas? Armenia was great and I’m forever grateful that they gave me an opportunity to start my career. I would say I grew as a player when it came to taking over games. I’ve always believed I’m the best shooter on every court I step on and I was able to show it this past season.
How enriching was it experiencing a new culture in Armenia? What did you enjoy most off the court?
It was such a great experience connecting with some of the locals over there. It was my first time outside the USA so it was a cool experience learning and being around their culture. My favorite thing to do off the court was definitely walking around the city and doing some sight seeing.
You played 3 seasons at Sterling College (NAIA) and played only 21 games. How tough were these 2 seasons? Did you get a fair chance there? Those were some really tough years, to sit there and watch loss after loss and not get a fair shot to prove myself was definitely hard. But I always trusted God’s plan and his timing with everything and that’s why I’m here today.
What positives could you gain from Sterling? You minutes really fluctuated in your last season. I learned to just control what I can control and to always stay ready. And in those games I got a shot and I showed what I could do.
You then played 1 season at Central Christian College (NAIA). What positives could you get from this season despite playing only 2 games? That was a difficult year for me too and probably not the best fit for me, I had intended to redshirt that year. I would say I definitely became a better teammate that year.
How did head coach Adam Hooker groom and prepare you best for a pro career? I had coaches outside of college that really helped prepare me for a pro career, I always was around pro guys in college so training and playing against them definitely helped prepare me.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jahmiah Haynes?
Jamiah is a great player and easily one of the best players I’ve ever played with. We never played one on one but we had some great battles in practice when we were matched up in five on five.
Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? I played against a lot of great players in college, a lot of players that went overseas but not the NBA. However in high school I did play against Terrence Ferguson who ended up being a first round draft pick in the 2017 NBA draft.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
This is such a tough question because I’ve played with so many great players. But if I had to narrow it to 5 these would be the players. In no order, Jaylon Scott, Jamiah Haynes, Moustapha Diene, Adam Hess, and Chris Whitten
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Bill Russell
Who is your GOAT? Lebron James is without a doubt the Goat.
Keyshaun Langley (185-G, college: UNCG, agency: Players Group) is a 185cm guard playing his second professional season and first with the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. Last season he played with the Nitra Blue Wings (Slovakia-Tipos SBL) averaging 16.1ppg, 3.7rpg, 4.5apg, Steals-5 (2.0spg), FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 88.1%. He began his basketball career at / Southwest Guilford High School and also played at Wesleyan Christian Academy. He then played at the University Of Noreth Carolina at Greensboro (NCAA) from 2019-2024 playing a total of 146 games and in his last 2 seasons there averaged 14.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 78.3% and 15.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 84.5%. he spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Keyshaun for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome to Germany. After playing your rookie season in Slovakia, how excited are you for a new challenge in Germany? I am extremely excited about the new challenges in Germany’s Pro A league.
Your playing your first season in Germany. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?
I just began to research and watch game highlights of the German leagues. When I committed to playing with the Merlins, my cousin Keith Gatlin (Played several years in the German BBL many years ago) began to give me insight of the style of play and he spoke about his time playing in Germany. I also inquired about German basketball from a few of my former UNCG teammates that spent time in the leagues.
You stated in the Merlins press release that you joined The club because you are able to accomplish something special. Would that be winning the Pro A title? Absolutely! I believe this team will have what it takes to compete for a title.
How were the first talks with head coach David Mccray? He is an up and coming coach that knows how to work with young players well and also has a good character. What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?
Our conversations were easy. We got to know each other. He informed me what he expected from me on the court. He also gave an overview of the culture and history of the organization. I feel this is an opportunity for me to develop and excel. I believe this is a terrific fit for me.
Your coming from Slovakia and want to make the next step in Germany. How confident are you that you could become an impact player? I believe and trust in the work and the process that I have been fortunate enough to experience through my collegiate years. So many people have poured into my development as a basketball player. My faith in what God has in store for me keeps me uplifted and confident.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 185cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? There are not many two-way small guards in the league, but my style of play is a mix of Damian Lillard, Jamal Murray and Trae Young.
You’re a player that has a strong offensive game that can score in many ways. Would you classify yourself already as a 3 level scorer? Yes. I just take what the defense gives me.
In the NCAA you never averaged more than 3,4apg, but in Slovakia was at 4,5apg. How would you classify yourself as a playmaker going into your second pro season?
In college, I played in the backcourt with my twin brother Kobe Langley. Although, we shared point guard responsibilities my team needed me to score more. Kobe is a wizard with the ball and he has a way of creating for others, so he often led the team in assists. The game is faster than what I experienced in college, therefore my opportunities to create more for my teammates has been amazing. I will always do what is needed to put my team in position to be successful.
You made an incredible jump with your 3 pointer in your last 2 seasons at UNCG shooting 41% and last season in Slovakia was at 39%. Your confidence must be sky high now. How have you seen the development of your 3 and what is your goal this season? My confidence comes from repetition. Repetition removes doubt. My goal is to continue to improve my 3 point percentage. I really don’t hunt for 3 pointers. I just take what the defense gives me and play within myself.
Your also a very ambitious defender that can disrupt any kind of offense. How would you describe your defensive game right now and where do you still want to get to as a defender?
I try create chaos and disrupt the offensive flow of the other team. I rely heavily on the coaching staff ‘s defensive scheme for the game, but I also have really good instincts within the team’s system. I am still a work in progress defensively. I will need to adapt to the style of play in Germany.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can be best prepared for the German Pro A? Right now, I am working hard on a bit of everything. I am maintaining my skills while getting stronger and being in game shape.
You played your rookie season with the Nitra Blue Wings (Slovakia-Tipos SBL) averaging 16.1ppg, 3.7rpg, 4.5apg, Steals-5 (2.0spg), FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 88.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? During pre-season when my team struggled and I realized this is a business and nobody cares, “Work Harder.” I knew I needed to stay focused and limit distractions. It’s not how you start, but how you finish.
You have been very fortunate to have played with your twin brother at UNCG and in Slovakia. How special is that relationship with him? Playing with him was a blessing. The chemistry we have is undeniable. He has my back and I have his back. He is a warrior and he does not have any quit in him. We created so many memories together on the basketball court.
What memories do you have of the tough 4 game series loss to Levice? You gave all you had averaging 25,0ppg in the first 3 games. The game-winner in the 4th game. My teammates and I showed so much resilience throughout the playoffs. Levice was a worthy opponent, but we believed and gave a good showing.
You played at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (NCAA) from 2019-2024. How quickly were you aware of Kyle Hines who also played at your school? He is the winningest American having won 4 Euroleagues? How big of a role model is he for you?
I was aware of Kyle Hines before I committed to UNCG. I attended several of his college games as a kid. I also watched how he carried himself on and off the court from afar. He is definitely someone I look up to when it comes to playing professionally overseas. His resume speaks volumes.
You won the SoCon title in 2021. What memories do you have beating Mercer (NCAA) and then playing at March Madness losing to FSU? -Winning the SOCON title with my teammates during COVID was a great accomplishment. Our team’s goal was to win both regular and conference titles. Playing well against FSU in the NCAA Tourney was a highlight of my career. Nothing like March Madness!
You had many great games in the NCAA including 20 points in a thrilling 89-87 win over Furman or beating Arkansas on the road. What was your favorite personal game at UNCG? The Arkansas game for sure. They were a top 10 team. We made history. I was locked in the entire game. Beating Furman on their home court has to be up there too.
You played for Wes Miller and Mike Jones at UNCG. How did each coach help groom and prepare you best for a pro career? Coach Miller helped me understand how important it is to stay in the gym perfecting my craft. Create good habits that will prepare me like a pro. Coach Jones helped me with leadership and utilizing antalytics to grow my game efficiently.Both prepared me mentally and physically.
Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or your brother Kobe? Me for sure
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced that reached the NBA?
-Andrew Nembhard
-Cole Anthony
-Anthony Edwards
-Aaron Wiggins
-Tyrese Maxey (Probably the Toughest)
-Scotty Barnes
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
-Kobe Langley
-Kameron Langley
-Wendell Moore
-Isaiah Miller
-James Dickey
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?
-Lebron James
-Michael Jordan
-Kobe Bryant
-Shaq 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? Yes; Should have left it alone. Classics are Classics.
Bringing in talented guards had always been a strength of the Dragons Rhondorf so when William Christmas (196-G-1996, college: CPP) arrived in late summer 2021, I was quite confident that he would do his thing on the court like past guards like Sterling Carter, Kamron Taylor and Curtis Hollis. In the first 3 games, he didn´t disappoint filling the stat sheet like no other averaging 19.3ppg, 8.3rpg, 2.7apg, 2.7spg, 1.0bpg. The only problem with the scenario was that the Dragons were 0-3 on October 16th. But it wasn´t his fault. The Dragons were going the youth route that season and before he would know it, his season in Rhondorf would be history. Well at least his playing in games was over. Since the Pro B team could only use 1 import player, they chose 17 year old Ousmane Ndiaye who I remember being hyped like crazy by Yassin Idbihi, but he was right in his assessment. Ndiaye would go his way and reach Europe´s highest league ACB and currently is playing for Vanoli Basket Cremona (Italy-Serie A). So here was a decorated American player who had averaged 16/6/3 in his last 2 seasons at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (NCAA2) and reached 3 CCAA finals and now was sitting and sitting and sitting during games. I remember seeing him before games and he was always 100% professional and somehow stuck it through even though he must have been steaming inside the way Charles Jefferson aka Forrest Whitaker was after he found his beat up car next to the school steps in the classic Fast Times at Ridgemont high. “I was steaming inside. I´m such a competitor that I just wanted to play so badly. I loved Ousmane. He is such a talented player and playing at a high level. It was the right decision at the time. It is always tough coping with things that you don´t expect especially when you’re a rookie. You want that opportunity to show you can play. It was important that I got exposed to the business side early to expect the unexpected. I made basketball my refuge and just worked hard in the gym. I had that mindset that everything would work out in the end”, stressed William Christmas. Even 4 years later, he still believes he got a fair chance with the Dragons and is still very professional about what happened with the Dragons and that first pro experience helped him with a big strength that he has continued to cultivate whenever adversary was in his basketball life. “I felt like I got a fair chance in Rhondorf. I understood fully where they were going. They wanted to feature Ousmane. I felt like everyone was professional and I was treated in a professional manner. Everybody was supportive of me. It just wasn´t in God´s plan at that moment and I was Ok with it. I could live with it. I had no ill will against the Dragons. I think that I learned that I was mentally tough. I was capable of getting things done and grinding against the grain and swimming upstream. This is an important part of the journey that sometimes you have to fight against adversary against things that aren´t ideal. I proved to myself that I could do that. My dad was really important in this time in that he spoke life into my, kept me positive and always encouraged me. My dad never let me give up”, warned William Christmas. William Christmas has seen adversary in his career, but in the end his mental toughness has always stuck out and helped him Grow.
The California native who remembers ex MHP Riesen guard Justin Simon being his toughest opponent in the NCAA 2 was finally let go in January 2022 and resumed his career in Luxemburg with the BC Musel Pikes (Luxembourg-LBBL) averaging 29.7ppg, 10.8rpg, 3.6apg, Steals-5 (2.1spg), FGP-3 (64.5%), 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 75.8%. This new experience felt like being reborn and was a big step in his career as he proved he could bounce back after adversary. “It was important being able to get on the court and help build my confidence up again. That helped me believe that I have the capability to play. I really appreciated my time in Lessenberg and I did have a super productive period in a short time”, remembered William Christmas. He really exploded in Luxemburg. He scored in double figures in every game. He scored 30 points or more 7 times including a 44 point explosion, had 12 double doubles and a triple double against Arnatia.” My fondest moment was the 44 point game. I feel like I could have had 50 points. You dream about these kind of games as a kid. I came out for a while in the fourth quarter, because we were up by a lot. But to still score so much was amazing”, said William Christmas. Being a rookie is never easy especially after having a rough start like he had in Rhondorf, but he was more than blessed to have had great veterans like ex easyCredit BBL veteran Henry Pwono who was by his side guiding him in the right direction. “Henry is a high quality dude with a great character. It is always good having dudes like him that can speak life into you and tell you what you need to do to be successful. I had a third American with Terry Winn also had had experience overseas and like Henry spoke life into me. Both these guys were really important for my development as a rookie”, commented William Christmas.
The scorer who sees the Lakers, OKC, Houston, and Denver as NBA champion candidates in 2026 ended his rookie season with a bang and then continued the momentum in the next season with the Artland Dragons averaging 15.6ppg, 7.3rpg, 4.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 78.5%. Once again he had to prove himself and had a solid Pro A season another step up for him. “My Artland experience was very important as it was another step in my journey that also gave me lots of confidence moving forward. I felt like I was everything coming out of college. So all these experiences were vital for my journey. No matter if it was Pro B, Luxemburg or the Pro A. Each step helped build my confidence. With Artland, I had to be a leader and had to show up every day and be professional. Artland was my last choice at the end of the summer. I had no idea who Artland was. They weren´t supposed to be good. But coach Flo believed in me from the start”, expressed William Christmas. With Flo he meant coach Patrick Flomo who in a way saved his career. “I can´t thank Flo enough for the opportunity. Just hearing his name, I think that I should call him right now. He really aided my career. He trusted me to just play my game. He trusted me to the take the helm and just showcase my game. He was a big reason that I was able to take that next step to the BBL with Hamburg. I was just blessed to have great guys there. Assistant coaches Chase Griffin and Allen Ray helped me so much with my game. They still check in with me today”, said William Christmas. The Artland season ended with a bad taste in the loss to PS Karlsruhe in the playoffs. “I will always remember getting hurt in game 3 and losing the game. I then missed a few months. I still believe we would of won game 4 had I been able to play. It was hard for me that summer not being able to play. I wanted to work on my game. I had this fire to go out with a splash with my next team Hamburg”, added William Christmas. He had so many great teammates and with Demetrius Ward one that is now starting his coaching career. “I see him being a really good coach, because he can relate to guys. He was just really encouraging. It is so important to have guys like that on the team”, warned William Christmas. He twice scored 28 points in the Pro A against PS Karlsruhe and Nurnberg.
The versatile guard who lists ex NBA and current Euroleague player PJ Dozier as one of his best teammates of all-time continued to climb the basketball ladder reaching the easyCredit BBL in the 2023-2024 season balling for the Veolia Towers Hamburg. Once again he left his mark there averaging 12.9ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 59.5%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 75.9%;in the BBL and in the Eurocup averaged 9.9ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 76.7%.”Hamburg was a tough season. I still think we did better than many thought. We were 1 game away from making the playoffs. I think that my hard work paid off. I was aggressive, got downhill and used my speed best to my ability. I was also fortunate to have a great coach with Beno who gave me so much confidence to play my game”, said William Christmas. He was fortunate to battle so many ex NBA players in the Eurocup and faced Serge Ibaka and FC Bayern Munich losing a real tough 81-80 nail bitter where he scored 18 points in the loss. “My fondest moment was the Munich game even if we lost it. We played in the big arena in front of 12,000-14,000 people. I loved the aura and gravity of the game. It was a game littered with clutch shots and buzzer beaters. All in all, I had a great time with the Towers. We had great guys and I thought that we had good team chemistry”, remembered William Christmas. He scored in double figures in 26 of 36 BBL games including 28 points against Ludwigsburg and in the Eurocup scored 22 points twice against Besiktas and Venice. Last season he had another season where his mental toughness played an important role for him being able to overcome adversary once again. He split time with the NINERS Chemnitz (Germany-BBL)N averaging 8.7ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.3apg, 2FGP: 55.1%, 3FGP: 27.5%, FT: 69.8%,and in the Basketball Champions League) averaged 10.3ppg, 5.6rpg, 3.6apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 61.2%, 3FGP: 44.4%, FT: 55.6%; and in Feb.’25 moved to Limoges CSP Elite (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 7.2ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 7.1%, FT: 88.9%. “I had a slow start and then found my game, but we had a mutual agreement that it would be better if I left. This experience again was important for my mental toughness. I grinded against adversary and felt like I was able to get out of the pit”, stressed William Christmas. He then took on a new challenge in France and came in mid season which is never easy, but in the end was able to take positives out of a tough situation. “We weren´t great, but this experience was a great example again of how my career has gone. The story always comes out the same. There is always some kind of adversary, some kind of mental road block. Last season I learned to be at peace with your situation. I learned once again to take the positives and just enjoy with what you have been blessed at learning. My teammates and fans were great. The coaches really cared. No matter if I played or didn´t, or we won or lost, I could always find refuge with my work. I would love to play in the Pro A in France gain and redeem myself. I just want to go where God leads me to”, warned William Christmas.
The flashy player who compares his game to NBA champion Shai Gillgeous-Alexander has started a new challenge in his fifth professional season with the Frankfurt Skyliners in the easyCredit BBL. “I´m really excited for a new challenge and to make this my best year yet. I believe that I can elevate my game beyond ´what people saw last year. I feel like that I´m a lot better than what I showed last season”, stressed William Christmas. Head coach Klaus Perwas believes that he can be a glue guy. Will his role be different than in places like Hamburg or Chemnitz? “I think that I will have a different kind of role here. I´m a veteran playing more with younger guys which wasn´t really the case with my last teams. I´m really eager to face the new challenge and grow with it. I feel like my experience will be vital. I think that I will be able to bring out the best in me and help give the young guys a nugget or 2 and help them elevate their game. I will have to show the young guys how things are run and I´m ready for it”, warned William Christmas. Teams usually want to bring in character type guys and Frankfurt definitely hauled in the jack pot with him as winning over stats is on his menu. “ I´m not going to say to much about that. I´m going to keep my personal goals to myself. But I do have big goals and that starts with winning as a team. I´m going to work my but of and let my game do the talking. Winning is the most important thing. The rest will fall into place”, stressed William Christmas. How crucial will his three pointer be this season? Last season he had trouble in the BBL and Pro A but shot very well at 44% in the Basketball Champions League. ”My shooting will be huge. I haven´t shot the ball particularly well the last few seasons. I will continue to work at it. You can aske any coach. It is a confidence thing. I will hit a lot this season. And if I don´t, so what. I don´t think that that makes a basketball player. I still do a lot of other things really well. That is why I have stuck around. But my shooting will be crucial this season”, warned William Christmas. Time has really flown by since his rookie experience in Rhondorf 4 years ago. He has achieved a lot in his career and he is far from over as he wants to make the Skyliners proud of him. “I ended up finding a lot of success playing in the ACB, Germany BBL and France. It´s a beautiful thing. Sometimes it´s hard to see God´s plan, but in the end everything happens for a reason. Both Ousmane and I had success. It´s just beautiful to see that we both had success. I just continue to pray that we both continue to grow and prosper”, warned William Christmas. It would be interesting to see Christmas and Ndiaye sitting at a table and shooting the breeze. Both would surely be smiling and laughing a lot about life. Christmas was right in 2021. He knew that in the end that everything would turn out right for him.
Tevin Olison (194-G-1998, college: YSU, agency: One Motive Sports) is a 27 year old 194cm guard from Memphis, Tennessee that is currently looking for a new challenge. He won´t be suiting up for the EWE Baskets Oldenburg this season. Last season he played with the Helsinki Seagulls (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 14.1ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 76.2%. He played his first 2 pro seasons with the Bristol Flyers (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 10.7ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 82.8% and 16.5ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 83.5%. He began his basketball career at Mitchell high school and then played 2 seasons at Cleveland State Community College (JUCO) averaging15.6ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 70.6% and 17.3ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 73.7%. He then played 2 seasons with the University of the Cumberlands (NAIA) averaging 17.8ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 75.2% and 23.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 76.4%. He finished at Youngstown State University (NCAA) averaging 12.6ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 79.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Tevin for talking to germanhoops.com. You went from Juco to NAIA to the NCAA to lower leagues overseas and now are in the BBL. Are you the ultimate fighter that never gives up? I think that I am the ultimate fighter. My path has been a crazy one. I wouldn´t change it for anything. I have worked hard and had help from coaches and my brother. I feel like I have made big steps so far in my career and have proved that I belong.
How blessed are to have a guy like Drew Kelso of One Motive Sports in your corner? He continues to find new opportunities for you. I really respect Drew a lot. He began talking to me when I was playing NAIA. Nobody else was talking to me at that time. He knew right away that I had some upside. Later big time agents began talking to me, but I always remained with Drew. I´m big on loyalty.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 194cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? I have heard the names Bradley Beal, Lou Williams and Jamal Crawford. Those are guys that can give instant offense. I classify myself more as a 2 way player. I can guard the opponents best player and still lead my own team in scoring. That is what makes me valuable on the floor.
You’re a lethal scorer, but also fills the stat sheet very well. Talk about other attributes in your game?
I feel like I´m an underrated passer. I´m an unselfish player. Guys like to play with me. I can be effective with or without the ball. I think that I´m a 3 level scorer, but to be able to use all shots depends on the coach you have. My mid range game hasn´t always been used to the fullest in certain systems.
You eclipsed the 40% mark once in college and have been consistent overseas being between 36-39%. What do you have to do to reach the 40% plateau?
I feel like I just have to keep taking good shots and stay in the gym. It is that simple. Shooting is like riding a ´bike. If you stay on top, then you will be ok.
Your also a very aggressive defender. How would do you describe yourself now as a defender and what level do you still want to reach? I take a lot of pride in playing defense. I don´t like the ball handler being comfortable with the ball. I take being scored on very personally. I´m working most on my lateral quickness so I can become an even better defender.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to get better in all areas of your game? I´m watching a lot of film so I can improve my pick and roll game. I want to be able to pick the defense apart.
Last season you played with the Helsinki Seagulls (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 14.1ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 76.2%. You won the title over Karhubasket. What was so special about this team?
I was really lucky that I chose this team. Everyone was so good to each other on and off the court. We were all close and that translated to on the court. No one was bigger than the other. The guy with 0 minutes was as big as the top scorer. We were a great team that all bought in to winning.
How vital was it having the ultimate veteran Rene Rougeau on the team? What kind of a relationship did you have with him? Rene and I were really close. We hung out each day. We had deep conversations and talked about everything. He held all accountable. You could tell he was a veteran that had won a lot. He didn´t want to lose. He was a great leader.
You played your first 2 seasons overseas with the Bristol Flyers (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 10.7ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 82.8%; and made a huge jump in your second season averaging 16.5ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 83.5%. How did you grow as a player in these 2 years?
I had to get adjusted that first season. The biggest difference was that that first year, I thought to much instead of letting the game come to me. In my second season, I just played my game. I read the game better, was more physical on defense and made the right plays.
In your first season you beat top UK team London Lions with 26 points and hit them in your second season with 31 points. How vital was it for your game and confidence showing all that you belonged on the stage overseas?
The Lions had big name players. Every time that I played them, I wanted everyone to know that I belonged. I always played my best games against them. I was always locked in.
What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? As soon as I landed. The time difference was huge. It all didn´t seem to be real. It was a big adjustment.
You played 2 seasons with Cleveland State Community College (JUCO) averaging 15.6ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 70.6% and 17.3ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 73.7%. Every JUCO player that I have interviewed have said that the JUCO experience was tough, but one that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?
Playing JUCO was one of the greatest experiences in my life. It was super fun. My first year, My older brother of 5 years was on the team. We always trained together. Even in my second year we still trained together when he wasn´t on the team anymore. It was a doggy dog world. Every guy was shooting for a spot. I stood out, because I didn´t force anything. I let the game come to me. JUCO brought the dog out of me.
You were a consistent performer in both JUCO seasons. How vital was Lee Cigliano for your early basketball development?
He was a hard nosed coach. He was a great defensive coach and scouted like crazy. He turned me into a great defensive player. He brought the Tony Allen out of me.
You then played 2 years at the University of the Cumberlands (NAIA) avergaing 17.8ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 75.2% and in your second season made a massive jump averaging: 23.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 76.4%. How did your game grow here under Don Butcher? Coach Butcher was by far my favorite coach. He put the ball into my hands. He always told me to treat my teammates right, because I should never only think about myself as the best player, but think of the whole team on the court. I really got comfortable as a point guard under him. He deserves a lot of credit for my success. He had a lot of trust in me.
You had so many great games there, but you really loved Life. You hit them for 40 and 36 points. How exciting was the 107-105 win? That 40 point game was wild. I actually think about that game a lot. We were on the road and their fans were crazy. I broke the record in that game with the most free throws. I remember their coach talking trash and whenever I scored, I just stared over at their bench.
You then finished at Youngstown State University (NCAA) averaging 12.6ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 79.7%. How enriching was this season? Your hard work the years before really paid off.
I was living out my dream there. I always wanted to play in the NCAA. I just had fun there. I really enjoyed playing against schools like West Virginia and Penn State.
How did head coach Jerrod Calhoun give you that last push to prepare you for a pro career?
He helped me break down the game and read it well. His practices were so detailed. He was an offensive mastermind. He really helped me to read the pick and roll and closeouts.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dwayne Cohill We still talk about our battles. I never lost.
Who is the toughest player that you ever played against that reached the NBA Darius Garland, Malik Monk and Malik Newman.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Dwayne Cohill, Jeremiah Martin, Curtis Hollis, Jordan Olison, Jahi Hinson
Please list your NBA, Mount Rushmore? Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Steph Curry
Who is your GOAT Kobe Bryant
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I haven´t seen it. But it probably should have been left alone.
Paul Miller (208-C-1982, college: Wichita St.) is a former professional player that celebrated an illustrious 8 year pro career. He played in countries like South Korea, Germany, Russia, Turkey and France, but spent the most time in Poland where he spent 4 seasons. He began his basketball career at Blair Oaks high school and then played at Wichita State (NCAA) from 2001-2006 playing a total of 131 games. germanhoops.com caught up with the former player to talk about his basketball career and after.
Thanks Paul for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?
No problem, I’m now living in Wichita, Kansas with my wife and 3 kids. After retiring from basketball in 2014 we lived in Kansas City for 7 years before moving to where we currently are 3 years ago. Our family loves it here.
You retired from the pro game 10 years ago. Has time flown by for you?
It definitely has gone by quickly. I think the first few years after were a little slower because we didn’t have kids at that point but since starting a family I feel like the years have flown by.
What have you been doing with your life since basketball? How was the transition period for you going from pro basketball to life after? Did you get a normal 9-5 job? Basically since basketball ended I’ve worked in sales selling orthopedic trauma implants that are used by surgeons to fix fractures. It’s a demanding, rewarding, and fun job.
Did you stay connected to basketball? I read that you served as an analyst for Cox Channel Kansas covering your alma mater? I’m connected to basketball in some small ways and being in Wichita I’m able to attend a lot of the Wichita State Shocker basketball games locally. A few years back I filled in and provided color commentary for one of the games. It was fun to do but I found a new perspective on the talent and job that people in that role have. It is not as easy as it looks or sounds and takes a lot of ability and work to do a good job.
Let’s talk about your basketball career. You played at Wichita State (NCAA) from 2001-2006 reaching the NCAA tournament as a senior. What memories do you have beating Seton Hall and upsetting Tennessee?
Those memories will always be near the top for me. The tournament has such a hype around it and there was just an unbelievable amount of attention for us that year locally. To have the success after years of working toward a result like that was just really rewarding. We had a special group of guys that year and it was just an incredible experience. The success in the tournament was a culmination of a lot of things for the program and I’m very proud of that season.
You played 20 years ago in the NCAA. It was a long time ago. How has the game changed in your mind besides it getting more athletic. How would you have faired in the NCAA today if you were playing now? When I was in college I think I attempted 1 three point shot if I remember right? The way teams play fast, shoot more 3s than ever, and with less structure and sets now is different than 20 years ago. It’s not like it changed overnight but has been adapted through analysis and as players and the game has changed. The metrics and analytics that are available now would have blown everybody’s minds 20 years ago. I think there is so much information that is digested and used to plan, scout, and train teams and players now. It’s very hard to compare players of different eras but where you’re in the middle of it all playing things would have been fine for me.
You had many great games. What was your best game in the NCAA? The game against Tennessee in the tournament that put us into the sweet 16 will always be one of my favorite memories. It wasn’t my best personally but one that certainly stands out in my mind. How did head coach Mark Turgeon groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
I came into college with very little experience playing basketball compared to what most players have now. I was also a baseball player and focused on that sport much more in my youth. So when I got to Wichita St. the coaches had a lot of technique and skill work to teach me. I think the footwork and principles I learned at that time were a big part of my success later. Turgeon held us to a high standard when it came to being accountable, focused, and dedicated. Turgeon really helped me grow in my career and I’m very thankful to have played for him.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Kyle Wilson?
We had some good battles for sure. If we played in the post I would win but from the perimeter and mid range Kyle definitely had the advantage.
You began your pro career in Germany with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga) averaging 4.7ppg, 2.3rpg, FT-2 (89.7%). What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? That season I spent time in Poland, New York, and Korea before ending up in Germany. That was a little bit of a whirlwind for me but I really enjoyed the team in Bremerhaven and it ended up being a good springboard for my career.
How tough was it as a rookie cracking the rotation with 2 talented guys like Adam Chubb and RT Guinn patrolling the paint area. What memories do you have of these 2 fine players?
That season I remember having so much fun in practice. We had some great battles that year. RT and I played a lot together in practice and usually matched up against Adam and Judson on the other team. Adam was strong as an Ox and was hard to move he and I had a lot of battles for sure. RT was dynamic but unsuspecting he would regularly surprise me with a play or a move that you had never seen. Both of those guys were great teammates and fun to play with.
You played your second pro season with SPEC Polonia Warszawa (Poland-DBE) averaging 11.6ppg, 6.7rpg, Blocks-3 (1.1bpg), 2FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 69.0%. How important was this season for you? Your minutes went from 10 in Germany to 25 in Poland. You finally could show your game.
Like most guys sometimes the opportunity to play minutes and given responsibility is the key to confidence and then the game takes off for you. I think my time that year in Polonia was just that. It gave me a bigger role in the team than the year before and I was able to grow as a player.
In the summer of 2008 you played NBA Summer League with the New York Knicks. What memories do you have of that experience? Who do you remember being your teammates and opponents? We had a pretty good set of guys. Nate Robinson played and he was always great to be around and play with. Danilo Gallinari had just been drafted so it was good to play with him as well. The summer league was still new back then and less of a production than it is today. That being said it was always a lot of fun to test yourself against the players there.
You played your third pro season with Anwil Wloclawek (Poland-PLK) averaging 13.1ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 79.9%. You played an exciting 6 game playoff series against then top team Asseco Prokom. You had 3 20 plus scoring games and 2 games scoring 19 points. Was that some of the best basketball that you played in your life?
That year our team in Anwil really came together in the playoffs and we found our rhythm. That series was really fun, they had a very strong team and I still think we could have won the series. That series was certainly one of my favorite playoff memories throughout the years.
Were you extra motivated against Asseco Prokom playing against ex NBA players like Daniel Ewing and Qyntel Woods and others like Ronnie Burrell and David Logan?
They had so many weapons on that team. Those guys were really good in their own right but they played together and had a good system. We just wanted to win I never thought much about the background of who was on the other team. If I learned one thing in Europe it was that everybody deserved to be respected. Sometimes owners or clubs would want to make some comparison of teams based on salaries or budgets of teams but at the end of the day when the lights come on teams and players have to go out and perform night after night.
You played your fourth season with Triumph Lyubertsy (Russia-A Superleague) averaging 7.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 38.1%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 87.5%;in the Eurocup and in the Russian League averaged 9.6ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 47.7%, FT: 78.4%. How was it playing in Russia and taking in that culture? What was your fondest moment there? Russia was a great experience for me. I enjoyed the club and the guys I played with. There was only 9 teams in the league that year so the level of all teams was high. If not for the weather I think I would have enjoyed playing there multiple years.
You played twice against top team CSKA Moscow playing against legends like Langdon, Holden and Siskauskas. Is one able to take in the atmosphere of playing against top players then or does one realize more now what one did so long ago?
At the time you have to respect the level those teams played at. Their quality was so high across the board. If one of the starters came out it seemed like the next guy to come in was just as dangerous. They were so solid in their play and didn’t make many mistakes or take bad shots. It was very hard to play against them. They were incredibly consistent in their play throughout the game, they didn’t take plays off or have any lapse in intensity
. In 2010-2011 you returned back to Anwil Wloclawek (Poland-PLK) averaging 13.5ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 71.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 68.8%; in the Eurocup and in the Polish League averaged 12.0ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 69.2%. Every now and then you would see ex NBA players like Gerald Green. He was in between the NBA when he played in Europe. You also played against Slovenian legend Primoz Brezic who had played in the NBA for 8 years. Do you still remember battles against guys like them? On paper that year we had a very strong team built at the beginning of the season. Unfortunately I think that team underachieved as we should have won more games. That’s how it can be sometimes though and sometimes guys just don’t fit together as your might hope. We did have some highlights during the season and good stretches of play. The team from Samara with Green, Rush, Brezic was definitely talented. I remember a couple plays Green had that he finished with dunks and it’s no wonder he was a NBA dunk champ he could really explode off the floor.
In the 2011-2012 season you played for Bandirma Kirmizi (Turkey-TBL) averaging 12.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 33.7%, FT: 84.6%. What memories will you always have of Turkey? What were you able to take with you with a season of Turkish basketball and culture?
That year was challenging for me as I broke my nose in the preseason that year. I was playing in Aliaga and it took some time to get back into form after that happened. I moved to Bandirma and enjoyed my time there but it had its challenges. Banvit I thought had a really great club and management and they took care of the team well. Kirmizi was built with a lot of the up and coming younger players in the club. The talent in the Turkish league was really good and there was a lot of veteran players throughout the league. The inexperience of our young team would show itself often that year but personally I enjoyed that season and watching and helping some of my teammates grow and develop.
In the 2012-2013 season you played with JDA Dijon Bourgogne (France-ProA) averaging 2.0ppg, 2.1rpg; and in the EuroChallenge averaged 4.5ppg, 2.5rpg. How tough was this season for you? You played 21 minutes less than what you saw in Turkey. Could you take any positives out of this season? This was a very frustrating year for me. I got to the team after the season had started with the thought that I would be stepping in and playing significant minutes. I explored leaving for another club a couple times right around the new year but was told that I would get a chance to play more. A couple months went by and I continued to hope for more time on the court but it never happened. Looking back I would have left for other opportunities but at the time you just try to make the best decision you can and in that instance it didn’t work out for me.
You played your last season with WKS Slask Wroclaw (Poland-TBL) averaging 14.1ppg, Reb-5 (7.6rpg), 1.2apg, 1.4spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 77.0%. You helped them win the league title. What was so special about this team? I had gotten married the summer before this season so I really enjoyed my time in Wroclaw being with my wife and enjoying playing basketball. I will always have fond memories of that year and time in Wroclaw.
You then retired after 8 seasons. Could you have played longer? Why did you retire at age 31?
I definitely could have played for 3 or 4 more years but I felt like I wanted to start my next career and establish my family in Kansas. I wanted to spend time around my extended family and friends that I had been sacrificing and missing for 8 years. I’m satisfied with the time I spent playing and will always look fondly at my experience playing in Europe. The teammates, coaches, trainers, and staff that helped me throughout the years are the people and things I miss the most. I was fortunate to have played with and against many great players and those experiences and people are what I am most thankful for.
How would you like for fans to remember the player Paul Miller best? As a player that always wanted to win for the fans. When the final buzzer would sound and everyone would finish shaking hands looking up to the stands and seeing the fans excited, happy, and proud of the team and the outcome of the game was the best feeling in the world.
Who was the greatest player that you ever faced on the court that reached the NBA?
That’s a hard question, I played with and against lots of guys that played in the NBA. David Lee definitely was one of the best guys I had to play against many times from high school up to the NBA.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
David Lee Lukasz Kozarek, Brion Rush, Pete, Michael Judson Wallace
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Michael Jordan Kobe Bryant Shaquille O’Neal Lebron James Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Who is your GOAT?
Michael Jordan
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?
I haven’t seen the sequel. Anytime a sequel comes out that much further down the road I feel like it never ends up being as good. They should have left it alone.
Dyon Doekhi (188-PG-1987) is a 37 year old 188cm guard that completed his 9 season with the TSV Neustadt temps Shooters (Germany-ProB). He began his basketball career in Holland with West Braband Giants (Hoofdklasse). He then sampled experience in France with USD Charonne (France-N3) and VGA St. Maur (France-N3. He then got experience with Stepco BS Weert (Eredivisie). He then came to Germany and played with clubs like Buergerfelder TB (Germany-Regionalliga), SG Sechtem 1971 (Germany-Regionalliga), SG Luetzel-Post Koblenz (Germany-Regionalliga) and TSVE Dolphins Bielefeld (Germany-Regionalliga. He will play with the Ademax Ballers Ibenburen in 2025-2026. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Dyon for talking to germanhoops.com. You played your first Pro B season with Neustadt after playing many seasons in the Regionalliga. How enjoyable was it playing that first Pro B season and what did you appreciate most about the season? The thing I appreciate the most was having the chance to play at my age with 37 years And to be fit and healhy. It was fun playing at this level know that I can still compete with young guys.
Neustadt played a solid season just missing the playoffs. Did the 9 game losing streak to start the season cost you the playoffs? Maybe a small part off it but there were also some games after that we could have won but didn’t so I think its mix of both
The team rebounded in the second half of the season having a 9-7 record. What was key for turning the season around? I think lot of players found their confidence back. We stayed also more healthy where in the beginning had some injuries. I broke my hand in pre-season and Leif his shoulder and some more small injury’s. And also we got new coach that brought some fresh air in the team as well.
What was it like being teammates with Shawn Scott. You 2 guys must of really understood each other well because of facing adversary in lower leagues. Is his chip on his shoulder as big as yours? It was nice to be with him on the same side. He is a hard working guy also funny and verry humble. I think he had a bigger chip on his shoulder since he had to carry the team more since he had a bigger role.
You averaged 7/2/1 stats this season. How do you summarize your personal season? Was your role different than other seasons?
Personaly I don’t think I had that good of a season because I didn’t know what my role is or was in the team also I know I could have done much better. I should have been more consistent.
You played your ninth season with Neustadt. Has Neustadt become more than a second home for you? Oh yes! I found lots of new friends and family in Neustadt. That will last a life time.
You showed that you were consistent in the German Regionalliga and always had solid seasons. Did you ever have Pro B or Pro A offers in the last 9 years? You were always that versatile player that did so much well. Do you sometimes wonder where your career may have gone had you averaged 27-30ppg in a season?
Yes I did have offers from other teams and not only from team in gGrmany also from teams in Holland, France, Italy, and more. But I stayed because I have so much fun and the fans showed so much love. I don’t think me avg 27-30 points was an option for me. I had good players around me that I loved to share the ball with and win games because me avg those points most off the time will end in a losing season. Winning was more important to me.
You played against so many great Regionalliga players in the last years? Who was the toughest that you ever played against? Possibily Jeremy Ingram?
You had me thinking here. In the last years I think Jeremy was tough one also Qurin from Bargteheide beez. And off course, I can´t forget my team mate Shawn Scott when he played for the Braves
You played the longest together with Fabio Galiano. Has he become like a brother? Yes he is we still have contact till today.
You also once were teammates with Mubarek Salami. What memories do you have of him? He was taken way to early from this earth. What did you really appreciate most about him? This one made me emotional. Mubarek is also my little brother to me. I have so much memories with him from our 1st game together untill our last game together that was in the summer where we played a tournament together In our 1st season we where Vizemeisters Off the court we watched movies, went out for drinks. I´m still heart broken till this day. There is so much I appreciated but number 1 was his love for his family and 2nd the way he played the game with so much passion and love and heart.
How important was head coach Alen Smith early in your basketball career? How did he help shape your game early in your years at Neustadt? Coach Alen Smith was important for finding my love for coaching the game of basketball and giving it to the younger players back. Not sure if he helped me shape my game. I always played small roles on his teams and I would say I learned how to be effective also in small roles.
You had so many great games in your Neustadt career, but what was your fondest? Possibly the 26 points and almost perfect game in the clinching win over Goettingen to reach the pro B? Oh yes I think is for sure my most favorite game in Neustadt maybe even my favorite game off my career.
You had the role of being a mentor with Neustadt, but how big was being that mentor? Did you mentor young German kids on the team? Yes I always talked with younger players that came to practice and let them make their own mistakes so they can learn from it. I like teaching and giving back to future basketball players I think it was of showing respect to the game and to the players that did that for me.
You played a season with SG Luetzel-Post Koblenz (Germany-Regionalliga). What memories do you have of that organization? Did it surprise you that it came so far to play in the Pro A?
I remember we falling just short and became 2nd if I´m correct. But the organization was always verry professional and had clear goals. So was not surprised that they made it that far.
Do you still follow SG Luetzel-Post Koblenz (Germany-Regionalliga)? The club is on the verge of moving back down to the Pro B:
I watch from time to time how they do but not that much. Yes I saw that but if it will happen, I believe that they will do everthing in their power to move back up.
You also played a season with Buergerfelder TB (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 19.3ppg, 5.8rpg, 3.3apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 72.5% What memories do you have of head coach Predrag Lukic? Did it surprise you that he left shortly after that season to Asia and has been there a decade? He was very strict coach and I think that fits well with the Asian culture. I saw he had some good success there and am happy for him.
You played a few seasons in France with USD Charonne (France-N3) and VGA St. Maur (France-N3). How do you remember those early years in your career? What positives did you get from the France days?
France was one of my best experiences in my early career. I really loved it out there. I still play there every summer in tournaments. I like the France playing style fast and very physical. I also had some great coaches that helped me believe a lot in myself. And I still have contact untill today and they still gave me advice.
Did you ever think about coming back home to Holland and playing in their leagues? You stayed in Germany for more than a decade which is more unusual for Dutch guys playing long in Germany. I don’t think I will ever play there again. I played there 2 seasons and it was never really my style off playing.
What is the next step for you? Your turning 38 this summer. How much longer do you still want to play? That’s a great question that I got a lot the last days. I still feel verry fit but I think I will play maybe 1 or 2 more years and then hang my playing shoes up. I´m already focusing on coaching. I have my coaching C+ license. So becoming a coach is what I would love to do after.
Who was the greatest player that you ever faced on the court?
I have played against a lot of great players in my career. I played against Kevin Yebo. I also played with him. I played against Worthy de Jong from holland who now plays 3×3 and is an Olympic champion. I played also against one of the Wagner brothers but he was still young then. And in tournaments I have played against Nicolas Batum.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Kevin Yebo, Isaac Bonga, Mubarek Salami, Papito Hersisia, Chip Jones
Please name your personal NBA, Euro, Dutch and German Mount Rushmore? Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Bill Russell, Steph Curry
Rathen Carter (201-F, college: Washburn) is a 201cm forward that recently played for Pioneros de Los Mochis (Mexico-CIBACOPA) averaging 6.8ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.3apg. He also has professional experience having played with the Kapfenberg Bulls (Austria-BSL) averaging 1.3ppg, 1.0rpg and in the Alpe Adria Cup averaged 8.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.7spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 72.7%. He began his basketball career with Heritage Hall High School and then played Eastern Oklahoma State College (JUCO) and Pratt Community College (JUCO). He then played at McKendree University (NCAA2) for a season before finishing at Washburn (NCAA 2) for 3 seasons. He took part at the Mastercage Combine in Italy and spoke to germanhoops.com
Thanks Rathen for talking to germanhoops.com. You just took part at the Mastercage combine in Italy. If you could describe the experience in one sentence how would it be? It was a nice mix of good hoops, and good people.
You played games against European competition. How did you like the style of play overseas? I like the physicality of the European game. As a tall guard, defenders like to be more physical with me, which gives me an advantage to leverage that pressure they are applying to my advantage.
How do you feel your game is able to best adjust to the way the game is played overseas?
I’m a four level scorer, I can score at the 3, in the midrange, and at the rim, and get to the free throw line. So I think my versatility offensively and defensively translates very well to any style of play. I’ve played in various different systems so I’m adaptable to whatever style of play is needed.
Talk a little about your own play. If you had to give it a grade what would you give it?
B-. I played well, I averaged 26 points 9 rebounds and 4 assists. I wanted to lead my team to the championship, but didn’t. My leadership could have been a lot better. I should have taken the time out to organize my teammates better. If we were all on the same page, we would have had a better outcome.
How do you feel your game grew in the short time? I made good adjustments. I’m a really good 3 point shooter but I didn’t find a rhythm in the first game. Instead of getting frustrated, I just stayed level-headed and found a solution to be effective and efficient by attacking the paint more and getting to the foul line.
Talk about your favorite game?
The 2nd game. I had 32 points (10-15fg), 14 rebounds, and 4 assists and a 39PIR, and 34 Efficiency. I showcased that I’m an efficient and effective playmaker.
Did you have a favorite play like a dunk or game winner?
In the 3rd game, defenders were denying me full court. But, I got open in the backcourt and was able to bring the ball up. The defender was trying to make it tough on me by being physical so I just gave a little bump with my shoulder which opened up the angle to the rim, so I took off and dunked it over the help side defender who contested it at the rim. At that moment I thought it was okay. Then I saw the video and was like, “that was kind of tough!”
How did you get along with the other Americans Like Miles Mcdougal, Tyler Watkins and Michael Williams? We got along well. All my friends are former or current basketball players. For me it’s easy to get along with fellow hoopers.
How was it spending time with Ron Howard? What was the most important piece of advice that he gave you?
I didn’t get to. He wasn’t able to make the trip. After the first game he told me to get to the rim more, and finish through the fouls. Making that adjustment helped me get to the free throw line 5 or 6 times the 2nd game. Which helped me score an efficient 32 points and have 39PIR for the game.
What is the next step for you? Did you meet any coaches or GM´s that could assist you with a job? Let’s say opportunities are coming. I did meet a few coaches that liked my game. So, we’ll see what comes from that.
What did you like most about Italy? Did you eat pasta every day?
Good people, there were a lot of helpful people that helped myself and my teammates during our time there. Paolo, Mattia, Asso, Lucca…thankful for those guys.
If you could visit another country in Europe tomorrow what would it be? Greece. I’ve been to a handful of countries in Europe but not Greece yet.
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