nba-draft

Jamie Edoka(Eintracht Frankfurt/Skyliners) Always Has That Will To Want The Ball And Give The Team What It Needs

The last few years weren´t productive years for NBBL team Eintracht Frankfurt/Skyliners, but this season could be the one where the club gets back to their winning ways. Even if the score of 84-82 against top youth team Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg may not seem menacing, the opponent still did reach the 2024 Top 4 in Berlin. This year´s club has some real talented players led by captain Ivan Crnjac who recently got a 2 year deal from the Frankfurt Skyliners. But there are also other players and one of those is Jamie Edoka (195-G-2008). The 17 year old birthday boy is already a top performer on the NBBL team and is getting real good minutes from the farm team Pro B team Skyliners Juniors. In the first NBBL game, he showed what it means to fill the stat sheet like a Russell Westbrook did on a regular basis a decade ago. At the end of 40 minutes, his stat line read 7 points, 7 rebounds, 9 assists and 2 steals in 32 minutes. It is no secret that his game is sparked by teammate Namori Omog who is a point guard that plays with Edoka on the court. He scored 12 points, had 3 assists, 2 assists and 4 steals. Combined they had 6 steals and are in a way the anchors of the defense. Their aggressive on ball pressure makes it very difficult for any team to get into their sets. With Crnjac as the top player, a good group of role players and Edoka and Omog creating havoc at both ends, this year´s team could make some noise in the NBBL. Having Omog as a teammate is a massive enrichment for him. “We understand each other really well on and off the court. I really like to play with him. It is nice to know that he is a player that can create for himself and others. I like his speed and athleticism that he brings at both ends. We are both tough players. I feel like we could become a top defending team in the NBBL this season”, warned Jamie Edoka.

Jamie Edoka and Namori Omog

The 17 year old German who lists current Georgia (NCAA) Bulldog and Serbian youth national player Savo Drezgic as his toughest player so far in his career was born on Jan 17, 2008 and grew up in Kirchheimbolanden which is near Mainz. He picked up the basketball for the first time at age 8, but didn´t seriously begin to play the game until he was 12 years old. He began his basketball career with TV Kirchheimbolanden. It is no surprise that he didn´t have a easyCredit BBL player or top German player as his role model growing up. It is often that the young kids are excited about the NBA and the unique and electrifying players that they have to offer. He watched a lot of NBA and to no surprise his big role model was Lebron James who then was playing with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He then joined the Skyliners organization and began with the U-14 youth team. “I liked the program right away. In my first year I was going back and forth between my home Gollheim and Frankfurt. I really enjoyed the professionalism of the club”, said Jamie Edoka. Last season he made his NBBL debut at age 15 and played 7 games averaging 5.3ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.0apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 10.0%, FT: 60.0%. His best scoring games in the NBBL were 8 points twice against Wurzburg and he registered 6 steals against Heidelberg. He also got his first taste of the Pro B where he played 2 games and also made his debut at age 15 playing 10 minutes against Speyer. He was really fortunate to have been able to practice with veteran Alvin Oniya who played in the NBBL back in 2016 with future NBA and world champion Isaac Bonga. “Alvin was always a mentor for me. He always had a strong personality. I really liked how he played and learned a lot from him. The most vital thing that I learned from him was decision making”, commented Jamie Edoka.

This season the feisty guard who lists Ivan Crnjac, Philipp Hadenfeld, Rephael Edward, Anton Wagner and Alvin Oniya as his 5 best teammates of all-time continues to make a fine development in the NBBL and Pro B. In the NBBL, he is guided by head coach Thore Bethke and is thankful that he can soak up as much as possible from the young talented coach. “Thore is really good with tactics and with keeping the small details in mind. He has really helped me with my shot”, expressed Jamie Edoka. His time practicing with the Pro B last season and getting his feet wet were instrumental as this season he is on the verge of making the next step in the Pro B. In 13 games, he is averaging 9,1ppg, 4,6rpg and 2,8apg. He has scored in double figures in 5 games including a massive 16/8/4 game against Wurzburg. That isn´t self-evident for a very young player putting up those kind of stats so early. “Jamie is an extraordinary talent. He has really excellent assets with his athleticism and long arms. He also is willing to learn and has adjusted well with us. He takes responsibility and isn´t shy on the court. That is important, because in the past he was surely always the best player on the court. Now he can prove himself at this level, learn a lot and measure up to older and better players”, warned Frankfurt Pro B head coach Sepehr Tarrah. He is lucky to play with Ivan Crnjac in the NBBL and Pro B. “I really respect his strong work ethic. He always wants to get better and made a big jump last season”, stressed Ivan Crnjac.In the NBBL he is currently averaging 15,5ppg, 6,5rpg and 3,5apg. He scored 28 points against Chemnitz and 23 points against Urspring.

The German who lists Lebron, Jordan, Kobe and Shaq on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore enjoys watching the game of world champion and Euroleague player Maodo Lo. “I really like his mentality. Even if he isn´t a starter, he is always giving his all and performing well”, stated Jamie Edoka. His biggest strengths on the court is his drive with his right hand, IQ and on ball defense. He knows how to score and can fill the stat sheet but handing out dimes is his first priority. “I´m a pass first point guard, but I simply give what the team needs. When you have scoring threats like Ivan Crnjac and Namori Omog, I just have to give them the ball”, warned Jamie Edoka. “He has really impressed me with his court vision and scoring ability. If he keeps working hard on himself, then he will have a big future”, warned Leif Zentgraf. His defense is something that will be interesting to see how well that continues to develop at the next levels. Can he become an elite defender? His zeal to defend hard and zeal is always there. “My 214 wing span really helps me. I just have this will to always want the ball. I think I have a good anticipation for the ball”, added Jamie Edoka. “He is already a big factor on defense with his age and with his long wing span and athleticism. He always has a length advantage over other players”, stated ex teammate Leif Zentgraf. He continued to grind in the lab as his shot continues to be a work in progress and getting that left hand up to par with his right hand will obviously help his drive become more versatile. He also has had experience with the youth U-16 national team as he played at the last FIBA U16 EuroBasket in Heraklion (Greece) averaging 10.0ppg, 5.4rpg, 3.4apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 7.7%, FT: 62.5%. He had a slow start in the first 4 games, but came alive in the last 3 games averaging 16/6/4/1/1. “My self confidence continued to rise in the last games. I was able to play to my strengths”, said Jamie Edoka. He also played at the Adidas Next Generation tournament, but only played 16 minutes in 4 games, but still enjoyed the experience. “I didn´t play much, but met players like Euroleague player Tibor Pleiss and world champion Justus Hollatz. I defended top players like Savo Drezgic and Andrej Kostic”, remembered Jamie Edoka. The 3 top talents of the Skyliners at the moment are Crnjac, Omog and Edoka. It will be interesting to see how they will continue to develop. It is a massive joy to watch this trio. Jamie Edoka will just continue to do whatever he has to help the team. What more could a coach ask for?

Erol Ersek(MLP Academics) Will Probably Never Get Over The Feeling Of Always Having To Prove Himself In The easyCredit BBL

pic credit: Niko.Neithardt

Erol Ersek (194-SF-1999) is a 25 year old 194cm guard from Austria nplaying his first season with the MLP Academics Heidelberg (BBL). He played the last 3 seasons for the Tigers Tuebingen. He began his basketball career in Austria with the Vienna DC Timberwolves and also spent a year in USA at Pacific Grove High School, Pacific Grove, California. He played in the FC Bayern Munich organization from 2016-2021. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Erol for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season for the MLP Academics Heidelberg. It is December 15th and the club is in first place. How good is basketball life at the moment?

Basketball life is really good now. When you win everyone is calmer. After the tough season in Tuebingen, it feels good to win again. We understand each other well and are having fun.

You played the last 3 seasons in Tuebingen. How much of a no brainer was it for you to follow Danny Jansson to Heidelberg?

It wasn´t that clear at the start. Danny called me before his move was official to Heidelberg and told me that he wanted to take me. I had other offers, but in the end I chose Heidelberg. I know his system and we know each other well. It wasn´t a tough decision.

Your from Austria and lived in nice places like Munich, and Tuebingen. You are used to pretty places. Is Heidelberg with the castle and river maybe the most beautiful place you have witnessed in your life?

The most beautiful city for me will always be Vienna where I´m from. I have a personal connection to the city. But on the other hand, everyone knows how beautiful Heidelberg is. It is extremely pretty now in the Xmas time with the Xmas markets. I´m very happy living here.

The MLP Academics are in in first place. What is the secret of the success?

The secret is our team. We play together, are versatile and play with a lot of energy.

I truly believe one of the most important guys if not the most important guy is Ryan Mikesell. Where would the team be without his leadership and versatility?

That is tough to say. He shows each game just how important he is. He can be nowhere for 35 minutes and then out of nowhere score 8 points in a row. That is an incredible quality. He is our leader and has a lot of experience. He is very appreciated.

What is it like being teammates with ex NBA player Paul Zipser. He doesn´t play a huge role on the court, but I´m sure his presence is priceless. Is he a guy where you go for advice?

He has seen the most out of anyone on the team. He has played at a high level for years in the NBA and Euroleague. He is a very funny guy and always willing to give advice. He is definitely an enrichment for us.

2 important pieces are Americans Michael Weathers and DJ Horne. The team relies on them to bring their A game daily. How valuable are both to the success?

They are both extremely important for us. I´m really happy for Horne and his success especially since this is his first season overseas. He is a great 1-1 player and can always create something when we have nothing. Weathers is so athletic and always brings great energy. He is a great defender and driver.

This is your fourth season together with Mateo Seric. Are you guys like brothers now?

Yes we are very close. In Tuebingen and now in Heidelberg, these are 2 small cities so we are never far away. We do a lot together. The other day we visited a hand ball game. It is just normal that he is in Heidelberg for me.

You have paid your dues for years. You didn´t get a real BBL chance in Munich and then made your break through in Tuebingen. Is your biggest goal this season as a player to become a consistent BBL player?

Yes exactly. I always want to prove that I belong in the easyCredit BBL. I want to be an impact player.

How difficult is it being efficient in the minutes you get? What is always your biggest focus on the court? There are enough guys that can score.

I want to be a scorer, but at the same time, I really know the system of Danny well. I feel like I can help the team in other ways than just scoring. I feel like I can call plays and have an idea of who gets the ball. I feel like I can help the team like that.

You really developed well as a player in Tuebingen under Danny Jansson. Into what kind of a player did he make you in Tuebingen?

Danny really was very important for my development in Tuebingen. He is a defensive coach. You see that with our game. He really helped me make a step forward with my defensive game as well as understanding the game better.

Last season was tough as Tuebingen went down to the Pro A. What did you learn about that season?

It was definitely a very tough season. It was a real shame that we moved down. I was very frustrated. I feel like I learned that you just have to keep pushing and make the best out of the situation. You just have to keep working hard and make sure that it doesn´t happen again.

You had so many great teammates in Tuebingen in that one season. Is there a player that had a big influence on you? Possibly a Till Joscha-Joenke?

He is the first person that came to mind. He has a great character and always plays with energy on the court. I remember when I made a shot, he right away would yell at me “pressure”, meaning to keep going strong on the next play. He has a great mentality and is very ambitious.

You played with FC Bayern Munich from 2016-2021. Was this the best basketball decision in your life?

Yes it probably was. To be able to go from Vienna to Munich at such a young age was good for me.

You helped win the 2017 NBBL title for FC Bayern Munich. What do you remember from beating IBAM and Oscar da Silva?

I remember having very tough games against IBAM and Oscar that season. Oscar had a very dominant NBBL season. He carried IBAM to the final. However we played really well in the final and were able to win.

What was it like being among so many talented youth players. Did you recognize early that some players get better treatment than others?

Of course there were some guys that practiced more with the BBL team than others did, but I believe that everyone had a fair chance. It was always an intense battle against so many talented young players.

You were teammates with great guys like Vrcic, Weidemann,Jallow, and Grant just to name a few. Which player do you remember having the biggest influence on you?

I think that Weidemann had the biggest influence on me. We were roommates for 3 years. We spent a lot of time together. We were always together.

Do you have a special moment with a Munich BBL players during those years that you won´t forget?

Yes I did. I have one situation that I never will forgot. I remember going over a screen and giving a nice pocket pass to Jalen Reynolds. He got the basket, but then came over to me and told me I have to make a high pass in a situation like that. That was that moment where I was like “Ok got it. I had never played with such high level players before and was learning on the fly.

In 2020-2021 you witnessed the emergence of Ivan Kharchenkov as a 16 year old tearing up the Pro B. Why isn´t he on any NBA Mock drafts yet?

I really don´t know. Ivan is a big talent. He has shown he can play in the BBL and with the youth national teams. He has no fear and just does his thing. I´m very excited how well he is playing this season. It is nice to observe his development.

In 20-21 was your last season with FC Bayern Munich, but had to mostly play Pro B. How tough was that season for you? You did play 3 BBL games though?

It was tough with Covid. I had a strong season in the Pro B. It was nice though to play in the BBL at the end of the season.

Was scoring 17 points in a huge 102-90 win over team BG Goettingen one of your top 3 greatest basketball moments? That was a crazy game as many of the young guys played because the veterans were being rested.

Munich had a Euroleague game against Milan 2 days later, so I was called up to play BBL. I hit all my shots. It was a great feeling.

You had so many great teammates like Lucic, Gist, Baldwin or Seeley. Was there a player that had a big influence on you?

I spoke mostly with Nick Weiler-Babb. He was a great guy. He was very calm and well spoken.

You also are a part of the Austrian national team. How is the state of Austrian basketball at the moment?

I feel like we have a good future. At the moment we have many young players playing in other countries like Spain and Italy and developing well. It is a new generation and the young guys have to take over. I´m one of the older guys on the team.

Your teammates with talented Sylven Landesberg. Is he still athletic like back in the day? I always thought he should have been in the NBA

He is a great player. He is older now, but he can still dunk from nothing. He was more athletic and explosive some years ago, but can still get you on a poster now. His dad is Austrian and he grew up in new York.

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

Jacob Poelti

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Wade Baldwin, Thomas Klepeisz, Ryan Mikesell, Vladimir Lucic, Jakob Poelti

What is your NBA and Euro Mount Rushmore?

Jordan, Lebron, Steph Curry and Kobe and Dimitris Diamantidis, Juan Carlos Navarro, Kyle Hines and Paul Zipser

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James. I grew up with his game. I didn´t grow up with Jordan.

Thanks Erol for the chat.

Urald King(Bakken Bears) Has Proven That A Former German 2 Regionalliga Player Can Have A Long Fruitful Career With Numerous Titles

Urald King (198-F-1990, college: SE Oklahoma) is a 34 year old 198cm forward from West Monroe, Louisiana playing his 9th professional season and first with the Bakken Bears ( (Denmark-BasketLigaen). He has gathered experience in Iceland where he played parts of 4 seasons as well as in countries like Germany, France, Finland, Austria and Israel. He began his basketball career at West Monroe high school and then played at Southeastern Oklahoma State University (NCAA) from 2010-2014 and as a senior averaged 16.9ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 58.8%, FT: 67.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.

Thanks Urald for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your 9th pro season and for your 11th team. How much do you feel like a basketball globe trotter?

I absolutely feel like a globe trotter. I look at it as a blessing to have clubs from different countries that want me to be a part of their organization and the opportunity to travel around the world.

9 years you were a rookie with TuS Bad Aibling Fireballs (Germany-2.Regionalliga). If someone had told you then that you would have won 6 titles and played in all these countries what would you have thought?

I probably would have laughed. People see me now and think my plan was to play in Europe and be a veteran. I never had any aspirations to play professionally (overseas). My start was from a very small league in Germany so to make it from there and to have as an accomplished career as I have is amazing.

I know you have always had a chip on your shoulder. How does it feel playing for a great organization like Bakken Bears? Do you feel blessed every day to be playing the game you love?

Making it to this point and having the opportunity to play for a club like Bakken, I definitely don´t take it for granted. I played against them 2 years ago in Champions League Qualifiers and I didn’t have my best performance but they were impressed by what they saw and followed me up until the point where they can present me with an opportunity to join their club. Every practice and every game I feel blessed because I know it’s guys who don’t get the opportunity or don’t last long (over here) for numerous of reasons. And for me to receive opportunities year after year means a lot to me and the people I represent!

You have won 6 titles already and have a good chance to add on this season. How much do you feel that winning vibe with the Bears?

Bakken had a rich history of winning championships so from the very first day we knew what the expectations are and would be. We can feel the winning vibes every day in practice by the way we’re coached and the ways we compete and push each other.

You have always been a lethal scorer, but also a guy that does everything at both ends of the court. What is your role this season?

I just love basketball and I taught myself at a young age to play hard and give it 100%. Honestly speaking I never look at myself as a scorer. I know I’ve had games where I’ve scored 40, 36, 34, and even had 20 pts & 20 rbs. I look at myself like someone who’s adaptable. So my role with Bakken is to score, be an inside presence, but also be a key leader on defense.

What has it been like sharing the court with Skyler Bowlin? Do you guys share the leadership duties?

Between us, I don’t like the guy, I’m just kidding. Seriously, it’s been great sharing the court with him. He’s a veteran guy and he’s poised. He does a great job of leading the team by words and actions. He’s our true leader on the team but I have the knowledge to lead us along side of him or take the lead when he’s off the court.

You have always been a great rebounder. What has been your secret to being such a consistent rebounder for years despite your height?

I can’t give away all my tricks but I would contribute my rebounding abilities to 3 things: 1. My relentlessness 2. Positioning and understanding timing 3. My athleticism.

You have always been a defender that made an impact on the defensive end. How have you grown as a defender over the years?

Learning the scouting report is extremely important so you can learn your opponent’s tendencies faster. Also I’ve always been good at controlling where I want the offense players to go; whether that’s in the post by placing my hands on their hip to guide them to the direction I want them to go or on the perimeter by giving them a side and being able to cut off the ball handler.

Last season you spent time in Peja and Austria. How tough is it in general to bounce around during a season? How do you handle it now at this point of your career?

Last year was extremely tough for me moving from club to club. Under most situations, that truly only happens when a player gets fired but my circumstances were different. I was also in Israel (Ma’ale Adumim) and I woke up to the news of a war being broken out. I was only in Peja on a loan deal even though the contract was offered to be extended I chose to leave because of the conditions living there. Austria was interesting, it was a familiar league but ultimately it was a team with a lot of talent but no chemistry. At this stage in my career I’m looking for more stability, I’ve been a globe trotter but I’m looking for somewhere to call home until I choose to retire.

In 22-23 you won 2 titles with the Basket Swans Gmunden (Austria-BSL) averaging 16.9ppg, Reb-5 (9.7rpg), 1.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 61.6%, 3PT: 43.4%, FT: 71.6%; and in the FIBA Europe Cup averaged 16.5ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 68.0%. What was so special about this winning team?

It was so special to me because we understood each other and had a true bond. Coach Anton offered us great leadership but we players encouraged each other. Also we had a lot of time to become familiar with each other because of the travels with Champions League Qualifiers & FIBA Eurocup. Also when it comes to legacy I think about 10-20 years from now when I’m done playing, knowing I’ll forever be a part of Gmuden Swans history with 3 championships (not 2).

You lost a tough 3 game series to Klosterneuburg where you lost 2 tough games and had great games. What will you always remember form that series?

Mainly how disappointing that team was. We had a team built to win a championship but we never developed the right chemistry and it was too much selfishness and individual play within the team.

In 2021-2022 you played with KTP Basket Kotka (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 14.6ppg, Reb-5 (8.3rpg), 1.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 71.1%. There you were teammates with veteran Richie Williams who played many years in Germany. How often did the word Germany come up?

Rich (as I call him) is a great guy, one of the things you want to do as a Big is develop a relationship with your point guards. So, we would talk all the time about our careers and we spoke on Germany a lot. He actually came to watch my series in Gmuden vs Wels & Vienna in the semifinals and finals in 2023.

In 2019-2020 you played with SO Maritime Boulogne (France-NM1) averaging 11.4ppg, 8.1rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 57.1%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 50.0%, in Jan.’20 moved to Stjarnan (Iceland-Dominos League) averaging 17.2ppg, Reb-3 (10.7rpg), 1.1bpg, FGP: 55.1%, FT: 80.0%. What memories do you have of the NM1. That league has grown in recent years.Is that one of the better third divisions in Europe?

I have fond memories of playing in NM1, with it being a 3rd league it’s very good competition. I was impressed how good the locals were. Being an American so much is put on our backs to perform but that was the first league I played in where a French player was as good if not better than the Americans and could easily lead the team in major statical categories. I also had some great off the court experiences with those guys!

You played in Iceland from 2016-2019 first with Valur Reykjavik (Iceland-Division I) avergaing 22.6ppg, Reb-3 (12.4rpg), 2.9apg, Steals-5 (1.8spg), Blocks-1 (2.5bpg), FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 68.0% and later with U.M.F. Tindastoll Sauoarkrokur in your last season. How special was helping Valur move up in your second pro season?

Those Value years were pivotal for me. Being a part of a club with a rich history and helping them achieve their goals of moving to The Dominos League (now Subway League) was a major milestone not only for them but for to show people that I’m a winner. I still tell people that Valur holds a special place in my heart and watching their recent success I feel like I’m a part of it.

You were teammates with Austin Bracey for 2 seasons. Did you guys become like brothers?

I have nothing but respect for Austin in the time we spend together being a part of Valur in the First League and Domino. However, unfortunately we didn’t form a brother like bond, just teammates.

How great was it living in Iceland for those 3 years? What was the coolest moment you had off the court?

It was an indescribable experience. The country is beautiful and welcoming. I can go on and on about all the memories I made but I’ll say my top two are. 1. My cousin from Los Angeles came to visit for me a week, he watched serval (playoff) games & we went to the Golden Circle together. 2. I formed a closed bond with a lot of the American players (men and women) from the 2017-2018 year. We would hang out together, play card games, go out bowling, and even party together. One in particular is Jeremy Smith. He’s a fellow Louisiana native being from New Orleans and I’m from West Monroe we formed a bond. We still talk at least once a month.

At the same time you paid your dues for 3 years. You were playing great and proved in the first division that you were a top player. How big was the grind? How did you grow as a player and man in these years that helped you make the next step to higher leagues?

One key thing for me is I learned who I was off the court. I learned to embrace the down time, whether it was being alone in my apartment or understanding the gym is available in the morning for a hour window so let’s make sure I’m there for some individual work. Those hours that went unseen directly lead to my success on the court.

You played your rookie season in Germany with TuS Bad Aibling Fireballs (Germany-2.Regionalliga). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake up call was literally my first day haha. I arrived in Bad Aibling and had my first European breakfast. After we were done eating, I went to my room for a nap and when I woke I sat on the edge of my bed and said to myself “I’m really in Germany”. At that point the realization and culture shock set in.

You played at Southeastern Oklahoma State University (NCAA2) from 2010-2014 and made a massive jump as a senior averaging 16.9ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 58.8%, FT: 67.1%. How did your game grow in your last season?

I understood it was my team and a lot of the offense load would fall on my shoulders. I remember my Coach Kelly Green called me into his office and asked me directly “do you think you can play 40 minutes”, I said “yes”, next thing he said was “good, you’re playing 40 minutes”. That let me know he had all the faith and confidence in me!

You had many great games, but what was your greatest game in the NCAA2?

This question is an awkward one for me haha. The reason being is I remember my first break out game, I had an unofficial triple-double. I finished the game with 31 pts, 11 rbs, and 11 turnover, yes I said turnovers vs University of Central Oklahoma. The reason this one stands out so much is because of the 11 turnovers of course but this was my first break out game in my basketball career. They were pressing us and every time we got across half court it seemed as if I scored but in the times we didn’t it seemed like I turned the ball over. Probably not the one you were expecting huh?

How did head coach Kelly Green groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Green instilled confidence in me from day 1 and helped me bring out my leadership qualities. He taught me to trust my instincts and play hard. Even though I’m 9 years in, a lot the advice he gave me then still applies now.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Lonzie Tyler?

Me and Tyler never played 1 v 1 but he definitely gave me some good battles 5 v 5.

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

Coming from a smaller background I didn’t get the opportunity to play against too many high level guys until my professional career. Honestly the closest I’ve ever gotten to it was Mike James (who plays for Monaco), we were Junior College teammates at Eastern Arizona College.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

In no order, Daniel Friedrich, Flenard Whitfield, David Bergfeld, Kyle Johnson, and Ingimar Baldursson

Your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Brandon Roy, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Tydrick King (my big brother)

Your Who is your GOAT?

My goat is Lebron but my favorite player of all time is Brandon Roy

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

Haha great final question. I did see it, I enjoyed the movie. Was it as good as the orginal, no but I liked it. Eddie Murphy can do no wrong!

Thanks Urald for the chat.

Kedrian Johnson(Bristol Flyers) Is Focused Most On Pick And Roll Reads To Be Able To Make The Next Step

(Photo by Rogan/Bristol Flyers)

Kedrian Johnson (190-G-1999, college: WVU) is a 24 year old 190cm guard from Dallas, Texas playing hiss econd professional season and second with the Bristol Flyers. Last season with Bristol he averaged 15.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.0apg, Steals-3 (2.0spg), FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 79.3%; and in the ENBL averaged 11.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 77.8%. He began his basketball career with South Oak Cliff High School and then played 2 seasons with Temple College (JUCO) averaging 25.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 4.3apg, 3.7spg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 77.8% and : 25.5ppg, 5.4rpg, 5.4apg, 3.4spg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 84.1%. He then moved to West Virginia University (NCAA) averaging 5.1ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.7apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 22.9%, FT: 75.3% and: 11.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.1apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 82.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against German team Bamberg Baskets.

Thanks Kedrian for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second season overseas with the Bristol Flyers (United Kingdom-SLB). What kind of a experience has it been playing for this organization? How special is this organization?

The experience has been amazing/ this organization is extremely special just for the simple fact how it has grown so much over the last 20 years and now playing European Competion

You come from Texas. What have you learned to enjoy most about the city Bristol?

Just the culture in full enjoying the nice whether when we have it and enjoying people I haven’t been a big people person all of my life but I’ve leaned to enjoy the people I’m around and being kind to others

What were the main reasons for staying in Bristol? How important was being able to play in the ENBL league?

The relationship that I have with Coach has played a big part in me returning and I felt wanted to and not just needed here in Bristol and the European competition also play a big part in my decision because it will be very important as I go into each summer planning to elevate

Your playing in 2 leagues this season including the ENBL league. How excited are you for added competition? What part of your game will shine most in this international league?

Super excited about the experience two years in a row I think my play making ability will show the most this season since last season it was mostly scoring for me so it would be different how teams will see this season while still scoring

You are playing a ENBL league game in Germany against Bamberg. What do you know in general about the country and its basketball/teams/players?

At the moment I know nothing about the team or country but I’m familiar with a couple players Kyle Lofton which I played in my final college season which he is a good point guard as well as Noah Locke which they were teammates and he’s a great shooter, Also had my experiences playing against Macio Teague during his last season at Baylor. Never played against Ronaldo Segu but he’s been a house hold name for years so it will be excited taking the court against them

What kind of an experience has it been playing with veteran Leslee Smith? Is he a little like a mentor for you?

It’s been great since day one. Me and him actually talk quite a bit from a basketball perspective and he tells me the things that I need to do to help this team win as well as myself he’s an amazing vet to have around

If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

De’aaron Fox


How has your game improved from playing in the NCAA and the UK?

I’ve matured as a scorer and point guard since making the jump from college I’m able to attack angles a lot better instead of creating my own and I’m shooting the ball from behind the 3 in my eyes better than I did in my college days while being the same defensive edge

Coach Andreas Kapoulas described you as a versatile guard. How big is versatility in your game?

Versatility is huge in my game because basketball in becoming a position less sport as the time goes by so being able to play multiple positions and being able to have multiple skills to bring to the table is very important

What are main skills you’re working on to take your game to the next level?

I’m currently taking on a full time point guard position so my pick& roll reads are very vital to take my game to the next level that’s what I’m focused on the most at the moment

Your also a very potent defender and was third in steals last season in the UK. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I’m a great on-ball defender as well as off the ball I truly feel if it was for my injuries I would’ve led in steal in the BBL last season but now I just focus more so on my rotations and positioning on the defensive end I plan on being in Defensive player of the year conversations when the time comes

Every guy I have interviewed that have played JUCO and many have stated that JUCO was really tough, but an experience they wouldn’t have traded for the world. How was it with you?

For me my JUCO experience wasn’t tough I would say it’s more so a struggle because you don’t have nearly the same accommodations as D1 programs but it is definitely an experience I’m glad I went through because it helped me grow as a person as well as a basketball player

How vital was head coach Kirby Johnson in your early basketball development? How did he prepare you best for West Virginia?

I can’t speak highly enough on Coach Kirby He had extreme confidence in my which allowed me to play with that high level of confidence and freedom he helped me become the All-Time leading scorer in Temple College history just by believing in me from day one

How did your game grow after making the move from JUCO to West Virginia?

My game expanded after going to West Virginia I became more of a scorer I actually learned how to play the point guard position and became an even better teammate and defender

You were teammates with Miles McBride in your first year. What memories do you have of him and did you sense his path may lead to the NBA?

I definitely could sense he would be an NBA player after playing with him one season. It showed in practice everyday and every game he was literally unstoppable

You reached March madness twice, but I can imagine the 67-65 loss to Maryland where you had 27 points is a game you will never forget? Describe what it was like in that game.

That was a game that I just didn’t want to be my last I felt that I couldn’t miss and everything was going my way that night although it was my last collegiate game it was my best offensive game played in my West Virginia career

What are some of the schools you enjoyed playing against most? What players did you enjoy coming up against?

I loved playing against Kansas State which they had a great point guard in Markuis Nowell which we always a great matchup also UAB had a great scoring point guard in Jordan Walker I enjoyed guarding

How did head coach legend Bob Huggins groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He made me relentless and forced me to give 110% day in and day out

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Taz Sherman?

We never really played a solo 1v1 game was more so king of the court of the type of game which he would always win

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life anywhere on the court that reached the NBA?

I would say Markuis Nowell which is a smaller guard but finds ways to scorer along side having high assists numbers and steals

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Duece McBride, Derek Culver, CJ Massinburg, Erik Stevenson, Oscar Tshiebwe

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, MJ, Steph Curry, Kevin Durant

Who is your GOAT and why?

Kevin Durant, for the simple fact in my eyes he is the best scorer to touch a basketball and can score in a variety of ways

Thanks Kendrian for the chat.

Michael Bradley(EPG Guardians) Lives By The Motto Put In The Work And Never Cheat Yourself

Michael Bradley (185-PG-2000, college: NKU) is a 185cm point guard that was born in San Antonio, Texas and began his basketball career at Cornerstone Christian Academy and then played at Naval Academy Prep School. He then played at Mercyhurst University (NCAA2) from 2019-2023 playing a total of 101 games and improved his scoring average each season and in his last season averaged 14.9ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 86.3%. He added a season at Northern Kentucky University (NCAA) averaging 10.2ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 82.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketballl late last summer.

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

Yes sir of course, Thank you for taking the time to reach out and interview me. At the moment I am still located at Northern Kentucky University training and preparing for my upcoming rookie year. Life is treating me very well, God has blessed me to be in this position and the support around me has been nothing short of amazing.

Congrats on signing with German pro A team EPG Guardians. How excited are you to be starting your pro career overseas?

I am very excited. I almost feel like very excited is an understatement. This is something you dream of all the time as a child and to see it come to life is a very surreal feeling.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Have you had any friends, ex opponents or teammates play in Germany?

In general I know that Germany is a beautiful country, and the fans care a lot about the basketball played there. I have had a few former trainer and teammate play in Germany’s ProA League. My trainer David Jones played for many years in Germany and had a very successful career, and my former teammate Melkisedek Moreaux played two years in the Pro A league and recently signed to the top league in Germany.

What were the main reasons for joining the EPG Guardians? What was the deciding reason that made you pick this organization?

The biggest reasons I decided to sign with EPG is the opportunity they gave me to fulfill a lifetime dream. They are very family oriented, and being a part of a club that is very close was important to me. Lastly is the amazing fan base, and the opportunity to have a very big 24-25 season.

How did the talks go with head coach Marco Van Den Berg? He likes your floor leader qualities and character. What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

The talks with Coach Marco went great, he laid out his expectations and what he sees us being able to accomplish this year as a club and that is big things. During our conversation I appreciated his passion and knowledge of the game. He is an experienced Coach who puts a lot of trust in his players, and also can help me learn and develop to become an even better Point guard than what I came in as.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 185cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

The two players who have been very influential to my game over the years are Tony Parker and Chris Paul. Both of their games are a great balance of finding their teammates and getting them involved along with picking and choosing their spots when to score.

You’re a floor general that can score and find your teammates. What other strengths does your game have?

I would definitely say some other strengths in my game are both my shot making ability and my ability to make plays in the open court.

You also have good percentages from outside and the free throw line. How would you classify your three point shot development in the last years? What kind of a shooter do you still want to grow into to?

My three point shooting over the years has come from staying in the gym consistently. I would describe it best as I had to figure out what worked for myself along with never being satisfied continuing to find unorthodox ways to improve that part of my game. I still want to grow into a better two guard, despite being a point guard having the ability to play off ball is very key for me so I will continue to work on it.

You’re also a very ambitious defender. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

As a defender I would describe myself as intense. I enjoy getting after It on that side of the ball. Constantly looking for opportunities to make a play for my team. The kind of defender I want to become is one that can guard any position and ultimately making the opposing player take the toughest shot possible every possession.

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

The one major area I am working to improve is my finishing around the rim, at the next level I know that will be very important. Also continuing to become a better shooter off the dribble, making shots consistently at the highest level.

You played at Mercyhurst University averaging 14/4/3/1 in your last season. What memories do you have in this time? How instrumental was Gary Manchel in your development there?

It’s hard to single out only a few times during my years there, Mercyhurst brought me some of my closest friends on and off the court. I learned how to be a competitor there and also how to be a true team player as well. Coach Manchel was very key in all of that, he challenged me everyday on both sides of the ball and ultimately gave me a foundation on what it truly takes to win at a high level.

You then played one season at Northern Kentucky. You had many great games like scoring 26 points against Oakland. What was your fondest moment at Northern Kentucky?

I would say my favorite memory from this year was definitely beating Wright State in the conference tournament. This year alone has brought me so many memories, but it always feels good to walk into someone else’s arena and get a road win especially during the most important part of the year.

How did head coach Darrin Horn give you that added push and help you prepare for a professional career?

Coach Horn and staff gave me that added push by teaching me how to work like a professional. As simple as it sounds they reminded me everyday no matter what “put the work in and never cheat yourself”. Ever since then that is exactly what I have done, everyday I show up ready to work and get better.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Josh Dilling?

We haven’t got the chance to play against each other yet since this is his first year at Nku. However we were on the same team for an open gym we had, and he can shoot the ball with the best of them’. Nonetheless being the competitor I am, if we were to play of course I got to go with myself.

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

Enrique Freeman by far, he is a big man that played for the Akron Zips this past year. All around great player but what separates him in my opinion is his motor.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

This is in no specific order at all but I would have to go with Stephen Cannady, Marques Warrick, Melkisedek Moreaux, Miykah McIntosh, & Sam Vinson.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Kobe Bryant, Stephon Marbury, Lebron James, & Chris Paul.

Who is your GOAT?

My goats are definitely my parents, without them I personally don’t know where’d I’d be in life without them. They kept me on the right track growing up and supported me working for this dream since day one.

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

I have not seen the sequel, but I do feel that they should’ve left it alone. Especially with the sequel coming so many years later.

Thanks Michael for the chat.

Anthony Roberts(Dinamo Bucuresti) May Not Be A Lockdown Defender Yet But Takes All Assignments Personal

Anthony Roberts (192-G-2000, college: Stony Brook, agency: Players Group) is a 24 year old 192cm guard from Michigan playing his third pro season and first with Dinamo Bucuresti (Romania-Liga Nationala). Last season he split time with ESSM Le Portel Cote d’Opale (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 10.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 36.1%, 3FGP: 20.0%, FT: 94.7%, in Nov.’23 moved to Arconic-Alba Fehervar (Hungary-A Division) averaging 14.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 41.6%, FT: 83.8%. He played his rookie season with Vitoria SC/Costa Guerreiro Lda. (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging 21.9ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 85.5%. He began his basketball career at Western International and then played 2 seasons at Kent State University (NCAA) averaging 5.9ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 72.0% and 12.6ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 75.0%. He then played a season at St. Bonaventure University (NCAA) averaging 5.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.7apg and then finished at Stony Brook University (NCAA) averaging 16.3ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 82.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.

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

No problem and I’m in a good space with basketball still learning the game as a student of it to get better

Your playing your third pro season and first with Dinamo Bucuresti (Romania-Liga Nationala). What kind of an experience has it been playing in Romania after having played in France and Hungary?

I will have to wait until mid season to fully give my experience because preseason is different from the real season but so far it’s competitive

Last season you played 2 Fiba Europe Cup games and this year playing in a very new competition ENBL league. What are your personal expectations from this league?

My personal expectation is to lead my team to a deep run in the enbl league and win a championship and to leave my mark with my play

The club last won the league title in 2003 and cup in 1980. Do you feel that urgency within the organization to win a title again?

Yes I feel an urgency for sure winning a championship is always on my mind no matter where I play at but it is not easy to do

Congrats on winning the first game in Romania. You scored 18 points. Has head coach Dragan Nikolic given you the keys to the team?

I would say so yes, but with the keys to the team comes great responsibility and high expectations which I feel like I can handle

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 192cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would compare my game to Paul George because we play at our own pace and we don’t let anyone speed us up

Is it fair to say that you’re a scoring point guard? What other strengths does your game have?

I wouldn’t say point guard I would call myself a combo guard that can play point at any time. Other strengths my game has is my IQ and physicality I play with and also my defense. I´m not saying I´m a lockdown defender but I take my assignments personal

You made a big jump with your outside shooting in Hungary at 41%. How well is your three pointer developed now and what is your biggest goal with your shooting besides staying consistent?

It developed a lot with me staying consistent in the gym focusing on getting better from 3, my biggest goal is to match that number from 3 or even shoot better

You averaged 3 assists the last few years. Do you feel like with the more team game overseas that you playmaking will grow?

It has been my goal to average more because I´m looked as a playmaker so this is something I definitely want to increase

What kind of a defender are you right now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

The defender I am right now I feel like I’m the best defender I have ever been in my life and I just need to stay engaged and focus and putting effort always on the defensive end

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

Defense for sure is something I have been working on I feel like all aspects of my offense game is complete even though I still work on my game but defense is definitely something I improve

Last season you began with ESSM Le Portel Cote d’Opale (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 10.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 36.1%, 3FGP: 20.0%, FT: 94.7%. You put up solid stats, but left. What positives could you get from the short France stay?

France is a great league to compete in every day and night everyone is playing hard and from every position there talented guys I wish I could have stayed to showcase more of my game but everything happens for a reason

You then played with Arconic-Alba Fehervar (Hungary-A Division) averaging 14.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 41.6%, FT: 83.8%. You played your first playoff rounds there and lost a tough 3 game series to Szolnok and game 3 with 1 point. What will you always remember about the series?

I will always remember the atmosphere in Szolnok. The fans were crazy and very supportive and loud for their team

How beneficial was it having veteran Siyani Chambers there? Was he like a mentor for you?

Having a vet like Siyani helped me grow a lot just to see how focal he was and how he led the team and also helped me improve my defense because I have never had to defend someone with his speed

You played your rookie season with Vitoria SC/Costa Guerreiro Lda. (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging (21.9ppg), 3.4rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 85.5%. 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 have always been far from home due to me being in school. I went to school in Ohio and New York so being overseas felt like I was back in school without doing any homework

You had huge games in Portugal. What was your favorite moment there?

My favorite moment in Portugal was beating sporting at home in Vitoria that game for sure was one of my favorite for sure

You played at 3 NCAA schools. How vital was this for your player development? What kind of player did you become in 2022 and what kind of player were you in 2018 when you began at Kent State?

A lot has to due with maturity on and off the court understanding that studying and being a student of the game is important

You played your first 2 NCAA seasons with Kent State and made a huge jump in your game in your second season. How vital was the start of the season having big games against Hiram and Towson?

It meant a lot to make that jump as a sophomore. I worked hard that summer and during the season so I just wanted to showcase my game and work

You then moved to St Bonaventure and still played good minutes, but averaged only 5.3ppg. How tough was this season and playing only 3 games?

During my time at st Bonaventure I wasn’t mentally all the way there. I was dealing with a lot of family issues and on top of that it was Covid going around I couldn’t focus there so I decided to step away for my mental health and family

You capped off a fine NCAA career at Stony Brook University (NCAA) averaging 16.3ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 82.3%. You had amazing games including a 40 point explosion against Maine. How did your game grow that season?

It grew because once I left from Bonaventure. I immediately started working out. My trainer ed turner helped me from winter all the way up until it was time for me leave. He helped me look at the game different like how I look at film and on court things as well.

How did head coach Geno Ford groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He always held me to a golden standard no matter what and held me accountable for my actions on and off the court

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tykei Greene?

To be honest we never played 1-1 but if we did would for sure but Tykei is my guy and got game

Who was the greatest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

The greatest players I played against that reached the NBA were Cassius Winston and Darius Garland

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Antonio Booman Williams, James Dickey, Phlandrous Fleming, Siyani Chambers, Tykei Greene

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryan,t Lebron James, Joel Embid

Who is your GOAT?

Michael black Jesus Jordan all day

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

Yes I felt like they should have left it a lone the first one was an instant classic and the sequel wasn’t as funny as the first one

Thanks Anthony for the chat.