One thing is for sure is that Jeremy Ingram (183-F-1991, college: AAMU) never turned his back against Germany. Germany was always good to him especially in basketball terms. The 34 year old played his first 8 seasons in Germany paying his dues for various Regionalliga (4 division) teams like Speyer, Idstein and Bensheim just to name a few. When there could have been guys who would have turned their back on the scarce pay and headed back over the pond, he always stuck through the hard times despite being a walking bucket and averaging more than 30,0ppg in Mannheim. He probably could have sought new challenges in other countries, but Germany was always his second home. He even began a basketball business in Germany last season and hardly played except for a short stint in Luxemburg as his walking bucket play continued. However in his 10th season now, he finally tool the leap out of Germany and is playing his first season with Amphora (Croatia-Prva Liga). He has struck basketball gold this season. He isn´t living the charmed life in Paris or Milan, but then again isn´t living in the woods for a small team in Romania or Moldavia either, but moreover found a new home in Croatia and really has found an incredible area to now call home for the time being. “Playing in Croatia has been great and even a challenging experience for me and it has also been humbling. Croatia is a beautiful very beautiful country and I´m blessed to have the opportunity to play there because my whole life I loved being around water. I have seen so many beautiful places, mountains, beaches since I have been living in Croatia. Waking up everyday to some of these views is incredible and coming from where I come from in America and traveling down this long hard Basketball journey to get here, sometimes just sitting by the water and looking at the mountains make it all worth it”, stressed Jeremy Ingram.

The New York native who now lists Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham as a top 10 NBA player is playing in the second division in Croatia and sees many difference between that league and when he tore up in his Regionalliga days. “This league doesn’t compare to Regionalliga. The players are much better here so I would compare to Pro B or maybe in between pro B and Pro A. There are some really good players in the league and there are not many American players in the league so some of the best players are local players which has also been a big difference from Germany. In Germany 90% of the time the best players on the team are the foreigners but In Croatia everybody can hoop. But I still have the highest scoring game of the league this season with 41 points so I still get buckets if I need to”, stated Jeremy Ingram. He may still be in Europe, but culture wise, he is far way from Germany. “What I learned about being in Europe is that every country you go to may be different in ways but at the end of the day they all have their own way and that’s the way they expect things to be. I will say in my opinion Croatia culture is a little more open minded when it comes to things they are not accustomed to where as German people usually don’t want to adapt to anything new because they have been doing it that way their whole life. That´s my biggest take on the difference. In Croatia the weather is different, basketball play style is different, and the people are a lot different.”, said Jeremy Ingram. On the court his new team is struggling, but that can always happen when you move up a league. “This is the first year for Amphora in this high league so I think a lot of the players needed to get adjusted to the speed and how much better basketball is being played. Because there are a lot of good teams and good players in this league so on any given night you can lose. As for the main guys on the team I think we all needed to find the our roles and get more comfortable playing with each other and most importantly trusting each other. Sometimes adjustments like that are hard because everyone is used to being the main guy but now when 3-4 main guys come to 1 team sometimes it can take time for that on court chemistry. I think every successful team in this league plays great defense and rebounds the basketball so we should probably start there. Our offense isn’t really the problem but I do think we can also be more efficient there also”, added Jeremy Ingram.

The walking bucket who has the San Antonio Spurs as being the biggest NBA surprise this season isn´t putting up the big numbers that he did in Germany in the Regionalliga, but he doesn´t have to as there is less pressure to do that this season. “My role has really changed this season and it was very hard adjusting. I´m used to scoring 30,40 sometimes even having to score 50 to win the game. Here I´m playing with much better players in a much more challenging league so it´s more important that I be a point guard and use my quickness and skillset to get others more involved than to always score a lot. It´s been a learning experience and I am still learning but I think it´s making me a more well rounded basketball player”, stated Jeremy Ingram. This season he is averaging18/4/3/1 stats and 31% from outside. “Due to the circumstances of me having this new role for pretty much the 1st time ever in a higher league I think I´m doing ok. I need to find a better balance of controlling the offense and scoring and I think I will have an even better 2nd half of the season”, commented Jeremy Ingram. There isn´t just one adjustment on the court, but numerous ones. “The speed of the game is much faster and all the players, especially the local players are a lot better. It´s a very physical game and I get full court pressured all game no matter if I cross them over 100 times, they will come back and that becomes very tiring. Also they game plan for me like knowing my tendencies and knowing when and where I like to shoot from so the preparation in this league is much more professional. He also has understood that efficiency plays a big role for him to be successful as a player. “I think my whole career has been predicated on scoring. Now that I play with better scorers and better players, I can focus on other things like assists and rebounding. I also feel the Croatia style of basketball fits me more than the German style of basketball so that has also helped me with getting easier shots and when you play with better players it makes the game a lot easier”, expressed Jeremy Ingram.

The journey on the court in Croatia is a different one than in Germany so that it doesn´t allow him much free time off the court. “ I´m having up to 7-8 practices a week, a few of them being individual practices so it´s not much time to do many other things. So on my days off, I just like to go sit on the beach and eat my lunch and just relax and enjoy the scenery. I don’t have the option on training kids in Croatia because there´s no real time and gym access in my area but I am coming back and forth to Germany pretty often which is where I am doing most of my skills coaching”, said Jeremy Ingram. Despite not having so much time off the court in Croatia, he still manages to keep his business alive and growing. “My basketball business is as big as it´s ever been and it is still rapidly growing and I am so grateful for all the people I have been blessed with the opportunities to work with. I also signed a pretty big contract with the military bases in Germany to be the first ever contracted Basketball Skills trainer for the military bases which is huge. So once I´m done in Croatia I will immediately come back to Germany to get that up and Flowing. I´m very excited for that amazing opportunity”, stressed Jeremy Ingram. He recently was back in Germany to celebrate Xmas with his family and even found some time to compete in the Wally´s Cup in Bremerhaven where he has been a standard guest the last few years. “The Wally’s cup is always fun and full of good vibes. I actually played with a serious shoulder injury I sustained in my last game in Croatia so I was very limited on how much I could actually play and what I could actually do. But the other players on the team played very good and with their help we found a way to win. So Shoutout to those guys, AP, D. McGee, and Julius. It was another successful event, also big Shoutout to Wally”, smiled Jeremy Ingram. “2026 is upon us and as usual Jeremy Ingram didn´t enter it without having a New Years resolution. “My new year´s resolution is to elevate my life. my business, and my family even more. 2025 was a great year but I need 2026 to double that. So I will be fully locked in this year”, warned Jeremy Ingram. That is nothing new with him as he is always locked in.

Jared Coleman-Jones (208-F-2000, college: SDSU) is a 25 year old 208cm forward born in Orlando, Florida and grew up in Georgia that is playing his rookie season overseas with WKS Slask Wroclaw (Poland-OBL). He began his basketball career at McEachern High School and had mover 1000 career points and rebounds there. He tehn played a season at Northwestern (NCAA) and then was at Middle Tennessee State University (NCAA) for 3 seasons an d n his last one averaged 11.0ppg, 7.6rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 44.2%, FT: 77.1%. He then added a season at San Diego State University (NCAA) averaging 7.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 59.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against Hamburg.

Thanks Jared for for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with WKS Slask Wroclaw (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you as a rookie? What have you enjoyed most about Poland and basketball?

It’s been a great learning experience. Playing my first professional season overseas has forced me to grow quickly, both on and off the court. The level of physicality, the tactical side of the game, and the expectations are higher. What I’ve enjoyed most about Poland is the passion for basketball and how competitive the league is night to night. It’s a very honest style of basketball; if you’re not ready, it shows.

What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

The biggest wake-up call was realizing there’s no safety net. You’re far from home, no familiar system, and every day matters. Practices, recovery, preparation. Everything is on you. That responsibility hit early, and I embraced it.

The team is having a great season in the Polish league. It last won a league title in 2022. What makes this years team so successful?

This team has strong chemistry and depth. Everyone understands their role for the most part, and there’s a real commitment to defending and playing with effort. We’re disciplined, physical, and connected, which is why we’ve been consistent in the OBL.

It is struggling a bit in the Eurocup. What have been the main reasons for the club not having a better season?

EuroCup is a different animal. The margin for error is smaller, and we’ve had stretches where execution and experience hurt us. It’s also about adjusting to different styles very quickly. Those lessons will help us long-term.

Your averaging 20 minutes in the OBL and 13 minutes in the Eurocup. How vital was the growing pains that you had in some years in the NCAA to get you prepared for your rookie season?

Those years were huge for me. I didn’t come in as a finished product, and I had to earn everything. Learning patience, resilience, and how to impact winning without forcing things prepared me well for being a rookie pro.

You have been efficient in the OBL. What exactly is your role on the team?

My role is to bring versatility, defend multiple positions, rebound, stretch the floor, and make smart plays. I try to be efficient and impactful in my minutes, doing whatever the team needs that night.

The team is filled pretty well with bigs. How grueling are the battles in practice? Is there a teammate that has had the biggest impact on you this season?

Practices are very competitive. We have a lot of quality bigs, so nothing comes easy. That internal competition sharpens everyone. I’ve learned a lot from multiple teammates, especially in terms of physicality and positioning.

You’re a 208cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I’d compare my game to a mix of Dorian Finney-Smith and Bobby Portis. I bring Dorian’s defensive versatility and ability to space the floor, and Bobby’s energy, physicality, and impact on the glass. I take pride in being reliable and contributing to winning in the role I’m given.

You can fill the state sheet with ease. What would you describe as your biggest strengths on the court?

Versatility, basketball IQ, rebounding, and doing the little things. I take pride in impacting the game even when I’m not scoring.

You took a good amount of three´s at Middle Tennessee and still take three´s now. How would you classify your three point game and how would you like to develop it further?

I’m a confident shooter, especially when I’m taking good shots within the flow of the game. I want to continue improving consistency and extending my range so I’m even more of a floor spacer.

You averaged 1,1 bpg at Middle Tennessee one season. How would you describe your defensive game and are you a type of rim protector?

Defense is a big part of my identity. I’m not just a rim protector, I focus on positioning, timing, and guarding multiple actions. I want to be reliable on that end.

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

Decision-making at a higher speed, finishing through contact, and continuing to improve defensively. At this level, details matter.

You began your NCAA career at Northwestern University (NCAA) playing 31 games averaging 2.9ppg, 2.1rpg. How tough was this season and what positives could you gain from the season?

It was tough, but it taught me humility and patience. I learned how to work, how to stay ready, and how to be a good teammate even when things aren’t going your way.

You were teammates with future NBA player Peter Nance. What memories do you have of his game? He came out of his own in your season there and continued to develop well.

Pete was incredibly skilled and versatile. You could see his feel for the game early on. Watching his development was really motivating for me.

You then played at Middle Tennessee University from 2020-2024. You missed a season and had some growing pains the first seasons but broke out in your last season averaging 11.0ppg, 7.6rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 44.2%, FT: 77.1%. How do you remember this time? Did you become a man there?

That’s where I really grew up. I faced adversity, learned accountability, and developed real confidence through experience, not talk. I went through ups and downs, had to stay patient, and earned everything over time. By my last season, the work showed. I trusted my game, understood how to impact winning, and took pride in being consistent. Middle Tennessee and my coaches helped shape me not just as a player, but as a man.

You had some really good games against FIU, WKU and UTEP almost having a tripe double. What was your fondest moment on the court there?

Those games where everything came together…impacting the game across the board, winning, and feeling in control. Those moments stick with you. Specifically, when we played WKU at home. They were a huge rivalry for us and it was dubbed (100 miles of hate). Everyone was in sync and leading the charge felt amazing. It was one of those games where I entered flow state early on and didn’t lose focus.

You ten finished at San Diego State University (NCAA) averaging 7.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 59.3%. How vital was this extra season? How did you grow as a player?

That season was huge. I learned how to win at a high level, how to defend consistently, and how to fit into a strong culture. It made me a better pro.

You had some really good games against Houston, Air Force and Wyoming. What was your fondest moment on the court there?

Competing against elite teams and holding my own. Those games kept me reminded of the work I had been putting in prior. Specifically, the Houston game. They’re a really defensive disciplined team and they have the offensive ability to match. For me to play how I did in that game was really eye opening to the fact that there’s still so many parts of my game I can unlock that will help me continue to level up in professional basketball.

How did head coach Brian Dutcher help you make that last step as a player and help prepare you for a pro career?

Coach Dutcher emphasized discipline, defense, and accountability. He helped me understand what it takes to be a professional every day. Also, My assistant coaches Dave Velasquez, Ryan Badrtalei, Jaydee Luster all helped push me mentally, physically, and spiritually to broaden my scope on what it means to be professional. Moreover, the trickle down effect of the program influenced everyone to push themselves towards greater levels. My grad assistants Shane Geschwind, Ryan Noriega and my player development coach Aguek Arop all were in the gym with me everyday pushing me, helped me grow, sharpening my attention to detail. It was an experience I was super grateful for.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Magoon Gwath?

We’ll call that a competitive draw. Magoon Gwath is an uber talented player. Practice battles made both of us a lot better.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

Facing players who went on to the NBA or EuroLeague showed how small the margin is at the top. In retrospect, my freshman year I had to guard Daniel Oturu. In the BIG10 as a freshman, that was a wake up call to me on how physical and skilled guys at my position were

Please name your five best teammates of all-time?

That’s a really tough question, I’ve been lucky to play with a lot of talented, high-character guys at every stop from middle school to now.

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore of 5 best players of all-time?

My undisputed NBA Mount Rushmore is Stephen Curry, Kobe Bryant, Michaerl Jordan, LeBron James, and Shaquille O’Neal.

Who is your GOAT?

Respective Goats are LBJ and MJ.

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

I saw it. It was a pretty good movie but some classics are better left untouched…but it was still entertaining.

Thanks Jared for the chat.

I remember the time of year as it was yesterday. It was early spring in 2013 and I was driving to Duesseldorf to see game 3 between Duesseldorf and Nurnberg. The main reason I went was too see my friend Murat Didin who was coaching Duesseldorf at that time. I had got to know Didin when he coached Frankfurt when I had just got into basketball reporting in 2004. There were some players at that time that I enjoyed watching like Ahmad Smith and Zamal Nixon or Adam Waleskowski and Kendall Chones, but Marin Petric sure wasn´t one of them. But I surely respected Petric just like any other player. I was already interviewing guys then like crazy and just loved reporting about them. Nurnberg won game 3 to lead 2-1 in games and wouldn´t wilt as they came back from behind to win the series 3-2, then proceed and beat Jena, but lose in the final against Vechta. Petric had a strong series averaging 16/4r in the last 4 games against Nurnberg series and would play many more years until he retired in 2020. When all was said and done, he had played 20+ years and played more than 400 professional games and played for 14 clubs. He mostly played in Germany, but also had stints in Spain and Switzerland. I saw him play numerous times when he played with clubs like Trier, RheinStars and the Scanplus Baskets. I also saw him play in a special game in the summer of 2017 when he played for a team put together of German players that battled the University of Iowa (NCAA) in Heidelberg in a charity game for Basketball Aid. What is Marko´s earliest memory of seeing his dad play? “Unfortunately, I didn’t see him in his prime, but I still remember many good years. My first memories are from the 2012/2013 season in Düsseldorf, when the team was in the Pro A final against Vechta. He was always a great shooter and a hard worker, and that’s what stands out most about him as a player”, remembered Marko Petric (202-SG-2008). A few years ago, I witnessed the name of Marko Petric and it didn´t take me long to put 1 and 1 together that he was the son on Marin. It is always nice to see the offspring of former players come on the scene and play basketball and then being able to witness them develop and grow is such a joy. It also shows me that I have been around for a while reporting on the sport.

pic credit : Chiara Greve

Marko Petric who lists 7´3 big man Australian Rocco Zikarsky as his toughest opponent that he has faced so far in his career was born on April 21, 2008 in Spain where dad Marin was playing with C.B. Aridane Tenerife (Spain-EBA). He moved around a lot simply because his dad played in many different places. He came to Germany and lived 2 years in Freiburg, 6 years in Duesseldorf and 7 years in Ulm. “. Basketball was always a big part of my life, my weekends were usually spent in the gym, either watching my dad play or playing myself. Aside from that, I’d say I had a pretty normal childhood”, stressed Marko Petric. Growing up his dad as well as Steph Curry and Michael Jordan were his biggest influences. When you’re a small kid and all you see is your dad playing basketball day after day, it is only logical that you build a special relationship to the game. “Without my dad, I probably wouldn’t play basketball. Growing up in the gym watching him made me fall in love with the game. Early on, I tried to copy him as much as possible, but nowadays I’ve developed my own style. His impact was and still is huge”, warned Marko Petric. A lot has changed with work ethic in the last 20 years with young players mainly with so many outside influences, but luckily for Marko, he knows exactly what that is. “Especially in my early years, I learned almost everything from my dad. The most important lesson he taught me was that hard work is necessary to develop as a player. He coached me on all aspects of the game, which allows me to play as a guard now, even at 2.02 meters tall. It definitely helps that he was a guard too, as he can pass on his experience to me”, stressed Marko Petric.

Pic Credit: Chiara Greve

Hisis dad played his last pro season with Orange Academy which is where son Marko who lists Michael Jordan as his GOAT began his pro career in the youth sector. It was in this time that he sampled vital first experiences with basketball and even found another basketball mentor besides his dad. “Playing in Ulm against all the talented players was always great competition. Besides my dad, my early mentor was Max Becker in the U10 and U12 teams. During those years, we were very successful. Max helped me enjoy the game and taught me to be a leader and a team player”, remembered Marko Petric. That summer he competed at the FIBA U16 European Championship in Skopje (North Macedonia) averaging 2.3ppg, 1.2rpg. He then took the next step and moved to Vechta. Vechta is known since years as being a top organization in the youth sector. “Vechta was the first time I practiced with a professional team and competed against grown men. That experience helped me learn to read the game better and find solutions against physical players. Off the court, it was a big learning experience too, as it was my first time living on my own”, said Marko Petric. He was a young player that always seemed to play older than his age kind of like Ivan Kharchenkov. Head coach Harm-Ubbo Horst gave him the opportunity to become a major force on the NBBL squad as a 15 year old. “It was a very positive experience to be a starter most of the season among all the other talented and older players, and to earn Habbo’s trust to defend Ivan Kharchenkov in the semifinals. In my second year, he gave me a leading role on another strong team, even though I was still in my “rookie” year in the NBBL”, remembered Marko Petric. He also played 7 Pro A games and made his debut at age 15. In his first NBBL season he averaged 7.3ppg, 2.7rpg, FGP: 38.5%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 70.0% and helped to finally bring the title to Vechta after 2 consecutive final loses. “It was one of the best moments of my life. We worked extremely hard all season to finally win the NBBL title, especially after losing multiple years in a row. It was a huge relief when we pulled it off. It’s hard to pick just one moment, because the whole week after the win was amazing as we celebrated nonstop”, commented Marko Petric. He had the fortune to be teammates with 2 incredible young players with Johan Grunloh and Jack Kayil who didn´t only make an impact on the court. “When I think of Jack and Johann, I first think of how great they are as people. All of us young players looked up to them for what they did on the court, but off the court, they were just like one of us. I believe both of them will play in the NBA someday”, warned Marko Petric. That first season he also had the luck to play at the well known Albert Schweitzer tournament for the German U-17 team that featured coaching legend Dirk Bauermann as the head coach averaging 7,0ppg and 3,5rpg. “As a U17 team, it was a tough tournament where we lost every game. But for me personally, it was a great experience to play against top prospects from around the world while being two years younger than the competition. Dirk Bauermann is the most accomplished German coach ever, and playing for him was an honour. He was tough on us, but overall it was a special experience and I learned a lot”, added Marko Petric. That summer he played at the FIBA U16 EuroBasket in Heraklion (Greece) averaging 8.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 21.6%.

Last season the young German who lists Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schröder, Franz Wagner, and Andi Obst on his personal German NBA Mount Rushmore played his second season with Vechta and made big strides in the NBBL averaging 16.9ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 77.1% where he had a 33 point explosion against Bonn Rhondorf while in the Pro A his minutes rose from 6 to 14. He also had extra experience playing with men playing for SC RASTA Vechta 3rd team (Regionalliga) averaging 12.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 70.6%. He had a 29 point game against Bramsche. “Last season I started getting good minutes in the Pro A. I had the chance to defend the best players at the Pro A level and learned to compete against grown men. What helped me most was getting used to playing in front of big crowds, like in Trier and Hagen”, explained Marko Petric. He surely could of remained in Vechta for a third season, but instead decided to take on a new challenge in Wurzburg with a double license to play BBL and Pro B. He must be taking a bit after his dad with moving around so much as a player. “I felt that moving to Würzburg would be great for my development as a guard. The Baskets offer young players many opportunities to improve individually and within the team. With Sasa and Alex as coaches, I have a lot to learn. I’m never afraid of competition, in fact, it motivates me to assert myself against talented players, and I think we have many great players in Würzburg too”, said Marko Petric. He knows exactly what he wants to achieve in his first year in Wurzburg. “My main goals are to take responsibility on the Pro B team and help us win as many games as possible. In the BBL, I want to earn minutes and have a positive impact every time I step on the court. I also want to further develop my guard skills as I get the chance to play as a guard in the Pro B”, warned Marko Petric. He has needed no adjustment time in the Pro B as he is averaging 10.9ppg,4,8rpg, 2,4apg and 1,3spg. He is playing for ex pro and head coach Alex King who like him played at a high level at a young age in Frankfurt. “With the Pro B team, I’m asked to be a leader on both ends of the floor. Most of the time, I’m guarding the other team’s best player. On offense, I’m expected to create for myself and my teammates. Because I’m very vocal, I also bring a lot of energy and emotion. Working with Alex has been really fun so far. He has a lot of experience from his playing days, and you can learn a lot from him. As a coach, he’s passionate and demands a lot from us, but that’s what we need to improve individually and as a group”, stressed Marko Petric. He also has had his easyCredit BBL debut logging 8 minutes against the MLP Academics Heidelberg and made a free throw. “The best moments were scoring my first point and being on the court with one of my best friends, Noah Koch. I’m thankful for the opportunity to play 8 minutes in my first BBL game. It was a great experience”, said Marko Petric.

Pic credit: FIBA

The 202cm shooting guard who names Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry, and LeBron James on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is a player like with EPG Baskets Koblenz American Tim Smith Jr who compares his game to Boston Celtic Jayson Tatum. “Like him, I’m a tall player who can handle the ball and create my own shot, while also being effective off the ball. Defensively, we’re similar too, as we can both guard multiple positions at a high level”, said Marko Petric. He has shown his Swiss Army qualities since years as doing a bit of everything has always been his strong suit. “Versatility is definitely one of my biggest strengths. I can impact the game even if one aspect isn’t working, whether it’s offense, defense, or something else”, said Marko Petric. Last season he shot a strong 41% from outside in the NBBL while in the Regionalliga shot 27% and currently shooting 31% in the Pro B. “Shooting has always been an important part of my game. Over the last two years, I think I’ve become more consistent with my three-pointer, and my goal this season is to continue building on that progress”, warned Marko Petric. His size and long arms gives him special qualities on the defensive end that helps make an impact not only on the offensive end. “I always want to guard the opposing team’s best player, regardless of position. Since I started playing, I’ve taken pride in my defense. I think I can improve as an off-ball defender, like being better in reading passing lanes and fighting over screens”, stated Marko Petric. He also knows exactly what he has to do to continue to do every day in practice to continue to improve his game. “I’m not focusing on just one area. I want to improve at all levels of the game”, warned Marko Petric. It is always interesting to hear what young players will say when they are asked if their goal is the NBA or Euroleague. American guys will mostly say NBA while German kids will choose the NBA, but many also rather would reach the Euroleague. For him why not both? “Like most players, I dream of making it to the NBA, but I’d also love to experience playing in the EuroLeague because of the incredible fan culture and atmosphere. For now, I’m focused on improving every day and becoming the best version of myself”, stressed Marko Petric.

Matthew Goodwin (188-PG-2005) is a 20 year old 188cm point guard currently playing for the London Lions (SLB). He began his basketball career with the Manchester Magic playing for their U-19 team averaging 16.7ppg, 5.6rpg, APG-3 (6.5), 2.5spg, FGP: 35.1%, 3PT: 29.9%, FT: 77.8% while also playing 6 BBL games. Last season he moved to the London Lions playing 27 games and averaging 1,0ppg. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against the Niners Chemnitz.

Thanks Matthew for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second season with the London Lions (SLB). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about it?

It has been nothing but a positive experience. I have learnt so much and improved so much at such a rapid rate

I have enjoyed the challenge the most. Playing against older and stronger players is going to be difficult but it has been fun competing against them and I love a challenge

Your playing a Eurocup game against German team Chemnitz. How have you followed German basketball the last years? Is there a German player that has really stood out to you?

I haven’t watched much German basketball if I’m being completely honest. I tend to watch Euroleague and Eurocup the most

The London Lions are having a great season in the SLB. How big is the hunger to win titles with this great organization?

The hunger is always there. The lions has had an incredible history of winning titles and it’s almost our duty as players to keep adding to the silverware

Currently the club is a top the SLB. What has been the secret to the success?

The secret is defense. Always has been and always will be. Our team´s ability to limit shots but also to make shots difficult has made our lives a lot easier on the offensive end. Our defense fuels our offense

What has it been like playing with such talented guards like ex NBA player Chasson Randle and Shaver Reynolds? What have you soaked up most from those 2 on and off the court?

Those 2 and loads others have been amazing role models. They show me loads of details on the floor and help me with my game. But further they show me what it takes to be a professional. Taking care of your body with recovery. Eating the right food. How to be a good husband. They have impacted me on and off the floor

There are many great UK players on the team as well with Williams, Rai and Sandy just to name a few? Which player has had the biggest impact on you?

Tarik Philip is the biggest impact. He shows so much interest into helping me get better and improving my game. He’s honest with me and firm but at the same time caring. He’s been a massive help

What has it been like playing for Tautvydas Sabonas? How has he helped shape you to be the player that you are today?

He’s intense let’s be honest. But that has brought the best out of me. He has made me be more hungry and more aggressive and proved I can do things I never thought I was capable of. He has brought out a side of me I didn’t know I had and it’s such a positive result

Let´s talk about your game. You have had sparse minutes last season and this season. How tough is the battle on a daily basis to get playing time for the Lions?

It’s a constant battle. You have to be almost perfect daily. And the people I´m competing with for minutes are Ex NBA players and some of the best UK talent so it is very difficult but like I said I love a challenge

You’re a 188cm guard that fills the stat sheet well. If you had to compare your game to an NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description?

I’d have to say Alex Caruso. Plays his role well. Plays solid defense and makes the right read. Hits an open shot if he has it and if in doubt can go ISO ball with a mismatch

You’re a guard that fills the stats sheet really well. Talk about your offensive game. What are your biggest strengths?

I’d say my biggest strength is shooting from behind the arc. Whether it’s a spot up 3 or a off the dribble 3. I’ve been missing a few in game recently but I know I can make the because I was last season in SLB

Your three pointer is still a work in progress. Talk a little bit about the development of your three pointer. What kind of a shooter are you now and where do you want to be in the next years?

Like I said I’m missing a few as of now. But I hope to become a 40-45% three point shooter. A threat on the catch and shoot and the pull up

Your also an ambitious defender. Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I think I’m a little nuisance. Out there to cause havoc and create a problem for the offense by being physical and disciplined. I want to become a sound defender. I want to be the guy you put out there to stop there best player

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

I want to improve my point guard skills. Reading the game quicker and understanding what to do when in terms of running plays

You began your basketball career with the Manchester Magic (NBL D2) How valuable were these early years for your basketball development? Did you have a mentor there?

Massively important. The foundations of my game were learnt there. I had loads of Coaches in Manchester, each of them providing something. Joe Forber, Sergio Lara Bercial, Will Brown and Peter Pareskeva are to name a few

You made a big jump in your game with the Manchester Magic Academy U19 team (U19 League) averaging 16.7ppg, 5.6rpg, APG-3 (6.5), 2.5spg, FGP: 35.1%, 3PT: 29.9%, FT: 77.8% in your last year. How did your game grow there?

It grew quickly. Teams were quick to learn that I could score so they adapted rapidly to forcing the ball out of my hands with a double team or Box and 1 defense. So it made me learn how to deal with such defense. But also gave me confidence to be more aggressive

You got your first BBL experience with the Magic. What do you remember from your first game in the BBL?

Technically my first BBL game was against Cheshire Phoenix with Manchester Magic in a Pre season match up. I hit a corner 3 and the crowd went wild!! I was only 16 so they were all happy to see me succeed

Last season you were teammates with experienced TU Holloway. What memories will you always have learning from a veteran like him? What could you soak up most from his game?

He is a veteran! He understands the game so well and has mastered his craft. His ability to get a bucket is like nothing I’ve ever seen. He taught me so much about how to use my body to create space and how to read defense quicker and better

You also have played for the UK U-18 and U-20 national teams. How is the state of British basketball at the moment? What young players are to watch in the next few years?

British basketball in my eyes is on the mend and will be getting much better soon

What is your biggest goal as a player? Is the Euroleague a realistic goal for you or do you have another big goal?

I think having an unrealistic goal is the entire point. So if you do reach your goal, you have reached a level no one thought you could. And if you fail you’ll end up higher than those who set a fixed goal. My goal is always Euroleague/NBA and always will be. Will I get there? I’m not sure but I’m putting in the work daily in order to get there

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

I’d have to say Ray Mcallum. He practiced with us for a little bit last season while he was in London. And he was such a creative and smart player and was always able to manipulate you to get what he wants

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

In no particular order. And this is in terms of teammates who are nice people and how they treated me

Ryan Mikesell

Sean Flood

Evan Walshe

Tarik Philip

Joel Scott

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of UK and NBA players?

UK

Luol Deng. Dan Clarke. Gabe Olaseni. Quin Ellis

NBA

LeBron James. Michael Jordan. Kobe Bryant. Kareem Abdul Jabbar

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron James

Favourite player thouh is Mike James

Thanks Matthew for the chat.

John Williams (193-SG-1999, college: FIU) is a 193cm guard playing his third pro season and first with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen (Pro A) currently averaging 14,7ppg, 3,7rpg and 1,4apg. Last season he played with at BKM Lucenec (Slovakia-Tipos SBL) averaging 13.4ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 44.0%, FT: 58.3%. He played his rookie season with EJ Sligo All-Stars (Ireland-Super League) averaging 23.1ppg, 8.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.3spg, 2PT: 63.8%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 67.7%. He began his basketball career with TW Josey High Schooö and then played a season with Ventura College (JUCO): He then played a season with Barton County Community College (JUCO) averaging 8.6ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 75.0%. He then played 2 seasons with Glenville State College (NCAA2) averaging 27.8ppg, 7.5rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 74.2% and 24.4ppg, 8.6rpg, 3.9apg, 1.2spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 71.4%. He then finished his college career at Florida International University (NCAA) averaging 5.3ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 16.0%, FT: 61.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.

Thanks John for talking to germanhoops.com. After stops in Ireland and Slovakia, your journey continues in Germany. How blessed are you to be able to play overseas?

I feel extremely blessed. Basketball has opened doors for me to experience different cultures, meet incredible people, and grow both as a player and as a person. Not everyone gets the chance to live out their dream and travel the world doing what they love, so I don’t take a single day for granted.

If one looks at the stats, you have only been overseas as a player for 4 months your first years. Do you in a way still feel like a rookie this season in Germany?

In some ways, yes because every new country and league brings its own style, challenges, and learning curve. But at the same time I train and play against a lot of high level pros all summer so I carry the experience and lessons from those guys with me. I approach each game with the mindset of a student, but also with the confidence that I can perform on any level.

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

Germany has a very organized and competitive basketball system, with great fan support and a strong tradition of developing talent. It’s a country that takes its sports seriously, and basketball here is growing every year, especially with the recent success of the national team.

Have you ever had any ex teammates, opponents or friends ball in Germany? Ex Grenville State great Lamar Mallory played successfully in Germany years ago.

Yes, I’ve had a few connections who played here, and I’ve always heard great things about the professionalism and competitiveness of the German leagues.

Your playing for German Pro A team Bayer Giants Leverkusen. Were you aware of the amazing history of this organization? What were the main reasons for joining this fine organization?

Yes, I was aware. The Giants have a rich tradition and are one of the most storied clubs in German basketball history. The winning culture, strong fan base, and the chance to play in a respected organization made this an easy choice. I wanted to be somewhere that values team success and player development, and Leverkusen checks all the boxes

How did the talks go with German basketball legend Mike Koch? Did you know that he won the 1993 Euro and won a Euroleague title? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

Talking with Coach Mike was inspiring I could tell he understands what it takes to win at the highest level. What I appreciated most is his emphasis on team first basketball and attention to detail. He wants us to play smart, disciplined, and together, which fits my style perfectly.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fill the description?

John Wall.

You’re an amazing scorer as well as a great rebounder. What other strengths does your offensive game posses?

I say my versatility. I’m comfortable creating my own shot, spacing the floor as a shooter, and attacking closeouts. I take pride in reading defenses and making the right play, whether that’s scoring or setting up a teammate. I also like to push the pace in transition and keep the defense on its heels.

Your also a very amazing rebounder. What is your secret to being able to rebound at a high volume despite your height?

It comes down to effort, timing, and anticipation. A lot of it is just wanting the ball more than the next guy,rebounding is as much about mentality as it is about size.

You have averaged 39% from outside in your last 2 seasons. What do you credit your improvement to shooting the ball better in the last 2 years?

Consistency in my work. I put a lot of reps in the gym, focusing not just on volume but on game-speed shooting. I’ve also worked on my shot preparation being ready before I catch the ball and making sure my mechanics stay the same every time. Confidence plays a big role, too.

How would you describe your defensive game at the moment? What kind of a defender do you still want to become?

Right now, I’d say I’m a versatile, physical defender who can guard multiple positions and disrupt passing lanes. I want to become an even more ELITE on-ball defender someone who can consistently lock down top scorers and be trusted in any matchup late in the game

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

I’m working on expanding my playmaking making quicker reads and creating more opportunities for teammates. I’m also focusing on improving my free throw percentage.

Last season you played with BKM Lucenec (Slovakia-Tipos SBL) averaging 13.4ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 44.0%, FT: 58.3%. How tough was this season? You signed late at the end of Feb and played only a month. Were you even able to unpack in Slovakia?

It was definitely a whirlwind. Signing that late in the season, I had to adjust quickly to a new system, new teammates, new environment all in a short period of time. Honestly, I barely had time to unpack, but it taught me how to adapt fast and be ready to contribute right away.

You played your rookie season with EJ Sligo All-Stars (Ireland-Super League) averaging 23.1ppg, 8.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.3spg, 2PT: 63.8%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 67.7%. You were only 3 months in Ireland. Why was the stay so short and what positives could you soak up from this experience?

My time in Ireland was short because I got hurt unfortunately. But I learned a lot especially about adapting quickly to a new style of play and being a leader in a short time frame. The fans and community in Sligo were amazing, and it gave me confidence knowing I could make an impact right away in a new environment.

How vital was it from your basketball development going to 4 schools with 2 Juco, I D-1 and one D-2 school. How did you become a more rounded player by seeing so many different things at each school?

It was huge for my growth. Every program had a different system, coaching style, and set of expectations. I learned to be adaptable, to find ways to contribute no matter the role, and to absorb as much as I could from each stop. By the time I finished college, I had seen just about every kind of basketball environment, which made me a more complete and resilient player

You played at JUCO schools Ventura College and Barton County Community College (JUCO). Every guy that I have interviewed that have played JUCO have reported that JUCO was a real grind, but an unforgettable experience. How was it for you and how vital was it for your development as a player and man?

JUCO was definitely a grind, long days, tough practices, and a lot of guys hungry for the same opportunities. It taught me discipline and mental toughness. You learn to fight for everything you get and to block out excuses. Those years shaped my work ethic and prepared me for the challenges of higher levels.

You then played 2 seasons at Glenville State College (NCAA2) averaging 27.8ppg, 7.5rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 74.2% and 24.4ppg, 8.6rpg, 3.9apg, 1.2spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 71.4%. Your game really took off in these 2 years. What kind of a player were you coming in and what kind of player did you become?

Coming in, I was more of a scoring guard who relied heavily on athleticism and getting to the rim. Over my two seasons there, I developed into a more complete player, improving my shooting, decision-making, and leadership. I became someone who could score in multiple ways, involve teammates, and take on more responsibility on both ends of the floor.

How key was head coach Justin Caldwell for your development? What could you soak up most from his basketball wisdom?

Coach Caldwell was extremely important. He believed in me and gave me the green light to play my game while also challenging me to be better in areas I wasn’t as strong. He emphasized preparation, poise, and playing the game the right way, which helped me mature as both a player and a person

You had some incredible games at Glenville State like hitting Frostburg State for 52 points and had a magical triple double of 23/10/14 against Davis and Elkins. What was your favorite game there?

The 52-point game against Frostburg State will always stand out, nights like that don’t come often. But the triple-double against Davis & Elkins might be my favorite because it showed the all-around impact I could have on a game, not just scoring.

You then finished at Florida International University (NCAA) averaging 5.3ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 16.0%, FT: 61.9%. How did your game profit there? You had good minutes in the first few months, then they went down for 5 weeks and then in the last month you had good minutes again. What were the reasons for the fluctuations?

My time at FIU helped me get used to the speed, athleticism, and physicality of the D1 level. Even when my minutes dipped, I treated every practice like game prep and just focused on getting better.In situations like that you just have to stay ready so you don’t have to get ready and control what you can control

How did head coach Jeremy Ballard give you that last push to be prepared for a pro career?

Coach Ballard was big on playing hard every single day. He pushed me to be sharper with my reads, more disciplined defensively, and being a more vocal leader. That level of daily accountability is something I’ve carried into my pro career it’s not about how good you are one night, but how consistent you can be night after nigh

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Denver Jones?

We really don’t play 1s often versus each other but the times we did, we both walked away knowing we couldn’t take a possession off. Our series is 1-1.

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

Toughest players I had to battle that make the NBA is definitely the guys I faced in summer runs and workouts. Those games are competitive and physical, and you really see the difference in pace, shot making, and decision making from NBA players. One that stands out is probably Bones Hyland

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Thats a tough question because I’ve had so many great teammates on and off the court but if I had to choose I would probably say : Elijah Ford (Juco Teammate), Denver Jones (FIU Teammate), Arturo Dean (FIU Teammate), Nick Edwards (Glenville Teammate), Adrian Scarborough ( Glenville Teammate) and Hegel Augustin (Glenville Teammate)

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

For me my mount Rushmore is Jordan, Bron, Kobe, and KD or Steph.

Who is your GOAT?

My goat is Kobe, #LongLiveTheMama

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

I actually don’t remember that sequel I will go back and watch it when I get a chance.

Thanks John for the chat.