Justin Anderson (198-G/F-1993, college: Virginia, agency: Octagon Europe) is a 31 year old 198cm forward from Maryland playing his 10th professional season and first with FC Barcelona Lassa (ACB) currently averaging 8,5ppg and 2,8rpg in the ACB and 6,8ppg and 2,8rpg in the Euroleague. He played parts of 6 seasons in the NBA with teams playing a total of 257 games for teams like Dallas, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Brooklyn, Cleveland and Indiana. Last season was his first overseas playing with Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (Spain-ACB) averaging 11.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 89.3%; and in the Euroleague averaged 6.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.8apg, 2.3spg, 1.0bpg, in Dec.’23 moved to Valencia Basket (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 8.5ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT-1 (91.9%), 2.2rpg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 69.2%. He began his basketball career at Montrose Christian school and then played with the University of Virginia from 2012-2015.He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Euroleague game against Alba Berlin.
Thanks Justin for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with FC Barcelona. What kind of an experience has it been? What has been the coolest experience you have had off the court?
I have to be honest that I don’t do much off the court. I’m very generic. I live close to the beach at home so I would have to say going to the beach.
In the NBA you saw all the cities and now in your second Euroleague season many historic cities. Currently your in Berlin. Has there been a city in Europe that has impacted you most? This question makes me realize just how much of a basketball head I am. I’m used to the bus to the hotel to the gym routine. I enjoyed being in Greece, but also our trip to Bologna . I got some authentic food for my wife. It was enjoyable
It hasn’t been a great season for FC Barcelona. In the ACB and Euroleague fighting for the playoffs. What does the team have to do better in next weeks to get more wins? We just have to continue to take the next step.
How talented is Italian player Dame Sarr? Are you like a mentor to him?
He is very talented, but already been a pro for 1-2 years. We all just try to be a good teammate for him. He has a very bright future. He has a great work ethic. He has to wait his turn.
You are playing at the highest level overseas in the ACB and Euroleague. Is the NBA still an option for you in the future? You will have to ask some of the scouts. I’m really enjoying my opportunity overseas with FC Barcelona. My talent and experience got me here. I’m continuing my journey overseas and continue to be presented with good opportunities I’m a kind of focus on now guy.
Last season you played with 2 ACB teams. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? I didn’t have a wake up call. I was already 30 years old. I think that I did a good job coming in and preparing for overseas basketball. I asked a lot of questions to legends who had played overseas. When I go overseas, I hit the ground running and was ready.
You played 3 years at the University of Virginia winning the ACC title and reaching the big dance. How did head coach Tony Bennet groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
Coach Bennett made me have to earn everything as a freshman. I came to Virginia as a very high recruited player. He told me already in high school that I would have to work hard for everything. I always had to prove myself. He also helped me go into the direction of coaching one day. He motivated so much to go that direction one. My dad was a coach. So in a way, I have 2 dads with my dad and Tony Bennett as a father figure.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Malcolm Brogdon?
Malcolm used to destroy me in school. He was more the fundamental player and I was very athletic. I liked showing the highlight plays. He got the best of then, but in the pro’s it was a different story. I’m really happy how he has grown as a player over the years especially with his leadership going form team to team and being a great leader.
You played your first 2 seasons in the NBA with the Dallas Mavericks playing 106 games. What do you remember from your first NBA game against the Phoenix Suns scoring a basket in 3 minutes of action? I remember sitting at the end of the bench and just waiting for the most part of the game. I remember making a lay up in transition. It was then that I realized wow this just happened.
You were teammates with German Dirk Nowitzki. Everyone who played with him have their special story. What is yours?
There isn’t just 1 story. He is a legend and the whole globe knows it. I just call him 6 as the sixth all-time leading scorer. He had a strong appeal on me especially with his work ethic. He had so much humility and was always available to me. I remember sitting next to him on the plane and I would try to soak up so much from him. I learned so much from him and also his trainer Holger especially about the art of shooting.
In your 8th pro game, you lost to the Lakers 90-82 and witnessed Kobe Bryant score 19 points. It was the only time you would play against him. Is that one of those games that will always stick with you?
He gave a lot of points to Wes Matthews. I was only responsible for 2 points. I just tried to prepare as much as I could seeing how he moved and worked on the floor before I came in. That way I would be prepared. I remember my teammates telling me stay down and don’t jump. He was so calm. In the first possession he didn’t do much except pass the ball. I was like Ok that wasn’t hard. In the second possession, it was something different that wasn’t major, but then on the third possession he showed his game by picking and choosing his spots so well. He drew the foul on me and went to the free throw line so focused never looking at me. I remember the whole bench yelling at me, ‘Rook don’t jump. His aura is so great. I’m a Lebron guy, but you have to respect everything that Kobe did especially at the end of his career. He retired, then won an Oscar and did so much in the finance world. It was so sad to lose him.
You played against so many great NBA players, but who was the toughest player that you battled at your position? Jamal Crawford would dance with the ball. He was so unorthodox with his game. JJ Reddick was also tough.
Where do you rate the over the car dunk from Mac McClung at the 2025 NBA slam dunk contest?
Mac Is from Virginia like me. I have known him since his high school days. I think that dunk a few weeks ago cemented him as a top 3 dunker of all-time. He is undeniable in the top 3 if you were to put all his dunks together.
Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheinStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.
Congrats Malik on the huge 121-57 win. How important was this win going ino the last weeks of the regular season? This win was very important, especially coming back from losing 2 in a row.
How proud were of the team that they didn´t underestimate the team who was missing some key guys?
I was very proud of the team. That showed a lot of character from us. We could’ve just messed around and took that team for granted but everyone played with energy and intensity from start to finish.
You didn´t play. How is the status of your injury? When can you suit up again? Been doing rehab work on it past couple weeks so I’m trying to be ready for this coming up game.
The score was decided at the break as the RheinStars led 64-31. Did it seem at times like it was men playing against boys? Well you could tell they had younger guys or guys who don’t play as much playing big minutes and we took advantage of that during the game by not letting them get too much confidence during the game.
Is it fair to say that the RheinStars played a consistent game for 40 minutes. The team allowed only 10 points in the fourth quarter and finished the game strong. I think we did have a consistent game. I think everyone who played gave good minutes and brought great energy when they were on the floor.
The Rheinstars did so much well. They dominated the boards, had 30 assists and 16 steals. What was the team´s biggest strength on the night? The defense was great. I feel we were disruptive with our on ball defense
Rower and Hennen combined for 9 points and Remagen and Michels for 41 points. What does that say for the team depth? With this team it could be anyone’s night any game. We have multiple guys who can score the ball.
You next play Orange Academy who you beat 91-76 on September 28th 2024. What will be key to sweeping the season series? If we play with the effort and energy we had this past game I think we should be able to take care of business.
Andre Wesson (198-F-1997, college: Ohio St., agency: Players Group) is a 27 year old 198cm forward from Ohio playing his fourth professional season and first with Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL). Last season he played with at Budapesti Honved SE (Hungary-A Division) averaging 12.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 75.0%. In the 2022-2023 season he split time with Anorthosis Ammohostou (Cyprus-OPAP) averaging 11.7ppg, 7.7rpg, 2.0apg, in Jan.’23 moved to KFUM Nassjo Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging12.0ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 78.6%. He played his rookie season with Lapuan Korikobrat (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 16.1ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 63.7%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 80.2%. He began his basketball career at Westerville South High school and then played at Ohio State (NCAA) from 2016-2020 playing a total of 126 games and as a senior averaged 9.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 80.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.
Thanks Andre for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your fourth professional season and have seen many countries. You keep grinding and moving up the ladder now in a strong league in Poland. Do you have a chip on your shoulder after coming from top NCAA school Ohio State? For sure, coming from a top school like Ohio State, and playing a big role for the team that was ranked high during my time there. I think we were number 2 in the country twice, and thought I had a good year especially my senior season. So to go from that to not even playing the following year whether that was G-league or overseas was really a shock to me and a wake up call I would say. It was definitely a rough time for me and made me look in the mirror about what I could do better, and something that I try to carry with me even today.
Your playing your first season with Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you and what have you enjoyed most from the experience?
It’s been a great experience so far. I’m in a great city with plenty of things to do, good food and great people in the organization who are always trying to make things easier for you so you can just focus on basketball. The thing I’ve enjoyed the most here are my teammates. Of course we come in everyday focused on work and getting better, but these guys make it fun too. Being one of the younger players on the team I’ve learned from these guys too about taking care of your body and having a routine. It can be a long season, especially this time of year for guys like me being so far from home, but my teammates have made it better and kept me focused on the task of winning games and getting better everyday.
Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL) is in the middle of the pack in the Polish first division. What does the club have to do better in the next 2 months to reach the playoffs?
Yea we started off pretty good and were winning games because of our defense. We weren’t the best team offensively but our defense was good enough to get it done. We’ve hit a little rough patch here recently which is a little understandable, I mean we got 2 new players in the matter of 3-4 weeks. It’s helped us offensively. I think we’re playing at a good pace offensively and moving the ball well, so I’m excited to see what we can do in these next 2 months. I think if we get back to what we were doing at the beginning of the year on defense which is on all of us, I think we could really do something special honestly.
Your playing Bamberg in the ENBL quarterfinals. Your still searching for your first pro chip. What kind of a series can we await?
It’ll be a battle for sure. They have some really good players over there, my guy Ibi Watson that I played travel basketball with in high school and have played against on every level it feels like now. I played against Noah Locke when I was in Hungary, so I’m familiar with some of their players, and know that it’ll be a challenge. I know that we’re ready for it though and wouldn’t want it any other way. We feel like we match up well with anybody that we play, and know that when we play to the level we are capable of for 40 minutes we’re a tough team to beat. Personally, I know that the ultimate compliment you can get in a team sport is to be labeled as a winner. So getting this first pro championship for me would be huge and something that I don’t take lightly.
Bamberg are the favorite on Paper. What will be key to getting by them and advancing? Yea like I stated early I think it all starts for us on the defensive end. Offensively we need to keep doing what we’re doing, getting the best shot available every time down court, taking care of the ball and playing with pace. I think if we continue to do that and get back to our defensive identity we’ll be just fine not just for this series, but the ones later on as well.
What has it been like sharing the court with Swedish national player Denzel Andersson. What have you appreciated most about his game? It’s been great. I mean some of the things he’s able to do on the defensive end you can’t even teach. He can guard multiple positions and using his length to block and alter shots is nothing like I’ve seen in person close up. Coupled with his ability to shoot the ball he’s one hell of a player. And as good as a player that he is,he’s an even better person which makes it even better he’s my teammate.
You’re a guy that gives good scoring qualities, but all in all fill up then stat sheet. What is your role on the team?
I think it’s just that. A guy who fills in the gaps for the team, whether that’s scoring, rebounding or defending, it’s whatever the game calls for that specific day or night that I can do it.
You’re a 198cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?
That’s tough. I feel like there’s not really anybody who would fit exactly, but just some who are close or come to mind would be Derrick White, Christian Braun or Terrance Mann. Guys who are kind of glue guys on their team, who are versatile and just competing, doing whatever that game calls for to get the win.
Talk a little about your strengths on offense. You also give good support with your outside shot. What is your biggest asset in your game? Offensively I think my best asset is my versatility. I feel like I’m a guy that can post up, I can play off the ball in a catch in shoot and can play in pick in rolls and create. I think I don’t do one thing that just stands out as amazingly well, but a lot of things are good.
How would you describe your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind do you still want to become?
I think I’m a very good defender. I can guard multiple positions, I’m good in post defense and 1 on1 perimeter defense. I use my length well to bother and block shots. There’s still things I can be better at to become the elite defender I want to be. I think I need to be better in close out situations, I’d like to get a little stronger so I can guard even more positions and get better in consistently navigating screens better in pick and roll situations. I think if I do these things I can become elite.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
Just continuing to work on my outside shot mainly catch and shoot situations. Also working on playing out of close out situations and making decisions and reads quicker, and as a stated early getting a little stronger. Not like I don’t feel strong now, but I think adding more strength to my lower body and core could add even more to my game.
Last season you balled with Budapesti Honved SE (Hungary-A Division) averaging 12.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 75.0%. You had a long playoff run. What will you always remember from that playoff grind?
The biggest thing I learned and remember from that playoff run was its being a lot more physical and very tactical. Being in these series these teams know all your tendencies and throw things at you to put you in uncomfortable situations. I think the key to it is instead of letting it affect you in any way, that’s when you should lock in even more and find a way to get it done. I think at times last year especially in the first series I would let some of the things they’d do affect me and take me out of my game instead of locking in more and just figuring it out. I think I was able to do that in the last 2 series and it helped me a lot.
In your second pro season you split time with Anorthosis Ammohostou (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) averaging 11.7ppg, 7.7rpg, 2.0apg, in Jan.’23 moved to KFUM Nassjo Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 12.0ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 78.6%. How tough was this season? You saw how basketball can be a business. What did you learn about yourself in this season?
It was really tough. As you said it was the first time that I really got to see how the business of basketball works. I had come off a pretty good year in Finland personally, team wise I wish we could’ve done more that year, but I thought I had made a big step in my game that first year. It was a rough first month in Cyprus. I got sick and was out for a week and a half, and other circumstances were going on. I never really was able to get comfortable and get back to the form that I was at. I got pretty close with some of my teammates out there so getting cut hurts, and made me realize that teams aren’t going to be patient with you always. Just like you have a job to do so do they, and that’s putting a team out there that they feel gives them the best chance to win. So I didn’t take it too personally, but it was definitely something that even today that I carry with me. Luckily, I was able to be picked up mid way through the year that season by Nassjo and was able to have a decent year there. It was a wild and difficult year, but I learned a lot and honestly wouldn’t want to change anything about it.
In Sweden you were swept by Norrkoping in the playoffs. What made it so difficult getting by them?
They were a really good team. I think the thing that stood out the most about playing them was their depth. It felt like anytime that they made a change or sub that they didn’t have any drop off. They had size, experience and players that were threats at all positions. They were well coached too, I mean there’s a reason I think they’ve won that league three straight years. You could tell that a lot of them had played together for some years with how connected they were offensively and defensively.
You played your rookie season with Lapuan Korikobrat (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 16.1ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 63.7%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 80.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
My wake up call happened as soon as I got to the city. Lapua was a very small town, super quiet wasn’t much to do which is different from where I’m from. That was the first time I ever saw that much snow, and it got dark around 3 in the afternoon which I didn’t even think was possible. The people there are great people though, they helped me a lot with my adjustment and tried their best to make you feel comfortable. I had great teammates while I was there also so it ended up being a good time. Wish we could’ve won more games, but after not playing my first year out of college I was just glad to be playing again.
You had some high scoring games at the end of the season like 30 points against the Bisons and 29 points against Korhait. What was your fondest moment on and off the court in Finland?
Like I said I had great teammates. There wasn’t much to do off the court, but we still had some good times just hanging out with each other after practices and games. The best memory I had though was at the end of the year we went skiing, and that was the first time I had ever done that so that was pretty cool. The best on the court memory was probably when we beat Lahti at home. At the time I don’t think they had beaten them in two years or so, pretty much the whole game we were down and at the end I got hot and we were able to beat them in overtime. That was pretty cool seeing how happy everybody in the organization was after that game.
You played at Ohio State from 2016-2020 and reached 2 NCAA tournaments. Which run was sweeter? You lost to Gonzaga and Houston?
The run that was sweeter to me was the 2019 year when we upset Iowa St. We were on the bubble that year, and didn’t even know if we were going to be in the tournament. We had a super up and down year, I mean I think at one point we were #10 in the country and then we got to January and didn’t win a game that whole month. Towards the end of that year we were able to get some big wins and found our way into the tournament. Got placed against a really good Iowa St team with Tyreese Haliburton, Talen Horton-Tucker, Marial Shayok I think they had just won the Big 12 tournament so nobody had us winning that game. To be able to upset a team like that was huge for our team, unfortunately we played another really good Houston team the next game and wasn’t able to get it done. But that was a good time just being able to get into the tournament after such a crazy year and get a win. The 2018 year I felt like we let that one get away when we played Gonzaga. We felt like we had a really good team that year and could’ve done something special, so to lose that game especially the way that we did really hurt. That year we had a good chance of winning the Big Ten so we felt like we could’ve done more than what we accomplished.
You played 2 seasons with future NBA player Keita Bates-Diop. What was it like for you seeing him perform and what kind of an influence did he have on you? Man Keita Bates-Diop was a hell of a player. My Freshman year he got hurt and wasn’t able to play the majority of that year, and it hurt our team for sure. Just seeing the way that he came back that following year was special though. Just the way he attacked everyday in practice and leading up to that year in his workouts you knew that he was going to have a great season that following year, and he did. I think he was Big Ten Player of the year, and I think he was an All-American also. It was a special year for him and our team. If it wasn’t for the buzzer beater loss to Penn State that year we could’ve won the Big Ten regular season championship. I think him and Jae’sean Tate had a big influence on all of us in how hard you have to work, and the energy you have to bring everyday to be the best version of yourself.
You had many great games and wins like beating Michigan and Kentucky in your senior year. What was your fondest moment there?
That year was a movie, it’s hard to really even explain everything that we went through that year. From losing teammates, to being ranked #2 In the country two different times it had so many ups and downs. I just really wish that it wouldn’t have been cut short by Covid to see how it would’ve ended. We beat a lot of good teams that year, and I personally think that we could have accomplished a lot. I have a lot of great memories from that year from winning at North Carolina, beating Kentucky in Las Vegas, beating Michigan home and away. I had great teammates too that made even off the court fun, so that was a special year and something that I’ll never forget.
How did Chris Holtman groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
He taught me a lot in my time there. Him and Coach Matta I learned a lot from them both. They taught me what it looks like to work hard, and the sacrifices that you have to make for the betterment of the team. That just going to practice and doing team stuff isn’t enough if you want to be the best. That you should leave a program better off than it was before you got there. I learned how to be a better man in my time there, and how important relationships are. So I’m very grateful for them and the role that they played in my life.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?
The toughest player I faced was probably Jayson Tatum or Malik Monk. Malik Monk scored 50 points against my team in AAU with Coach Calipari there and it was the easiest 50 points I’ve ever seen in my life. He had the first 9 points of the game before 30 seconds had run off the clock. Jayson Tatum was the toughest player I had to face; he just didn’t have any real weaknesses offensively.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?
My 5 best teammates are one my brother, of course he’s my brother, but to be the best player on my team and be so unselfish is a testament to him as a person. Two would probably be CJ Jackson, just another guy that was so unselfish and would do anything for you. Three would be Kam Williams, probably one of the hardest workers I’ve ever been around and made you want to push yourself to be in the gym because you knew he was. Four would be Jelani Rodgers, a guy that I played with in high school. He was our point guard and another one that just worked so hard was always in the gym and sacrificed a lot for the team so we all could be successful. Five would be Jae’Sean Tate, he was also so unselfish and to a fault sometimes, but just how he brought it every single day and worked hard to be where he’s at now was inspirational to everybody on that team.
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? My NBA Mount Rushmore would be Micheal Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Kareem Abdul Jabbar
Who is your GOAT? My GOAT is LeBron James. It’s close though Michael Jordan was the standard, but for LeBron to have won everywhere that he’s been, do it for as long as he’s done it and the talent that he’s had to face and still win with little to nothing to work with is amazing to me. I get Mike was a killer and had to face a lot of talented players too, but people don’t ever bring up just how great the players around him were when he was winning those championships. Not to take anything from Mike, but Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Horace Grant, Tony Kukoc, Ron Harper these guys were dawgs. Let alone having one of, if not the greatest coach of all time in Phil Jackson.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I did see the sequel and it was bad can’t lie. Probably should have left it alone, but as long as Eddie Murphy wants to make a movie I’m all for it personally. He’s one of my favorite actors with so many classics it’s hard to tell him to leave any movie alone.
Miryne Thomas (203-F-1999, college: Kent St., agency: Players Group) is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Cleveland, Ohio playing his second professional season with the Nitra Blue Wings (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). He began the season with the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (Germany-ProA) averaging 12.1ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 61.4%, 3FGP: 36.4%, FT: 84.8%. Last season he played with the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 12.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 78.2 and then played with the Ottawa Blackjacks (Canada-CEBL) averaging 6.7ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 76.9%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 69.2%. He began his basketball career with Cleveland Central Catholic High School and then played his freshman year with the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (NCAA) averaging 11.2ppg, 7.7rpg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 16.3%, FT: 64.2%. He then played 2 seasons with Ball State University (NCAA) averaging 3.0ppg, 1.7rpg, 7.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 56.1%, 3PT: 44.6%, FT: 63.2%, and 11.3ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 66.3%. He played 1 more NCAA season with Kent State University (NCAA) averaging 10.3ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 72.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball during his time in Germany with Kirchheim.
Thanks Miryne for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second professional season and first in Germany for the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (Germany-ProA). What kind of an experience has it been playing for this organization? What have you appreciated most about the experience? It has been a learning experience. I have appreciated the connection with all in the organization. I bumped heads with coach Igor in the first weeks, but now he is like top 5 funniest coaches that I have worked with. He pushes us to be great.
You came to a very ambitious team with a very talented head coach with Igor Perovic. What were the main reasons for coming? I didn´t know what to expect. I came to a club that has allowed me to be me on the court. I have freedom and both ends and can be vocal. In my rookie season I wasn´t a driver. There was a muzzle on me. Here it is the exact opposite. Coach gives me freedom.
After coming from Leicester in England, now your playing in the competitive German Pro A? How would you compare the 2 leagues? Would you say from skill level about the same?
I would say that the BBL in the UK is 10-15% better skill wise than in the Pro A. There are 2 types of people. There is the competitor which I am and the showman. The showman is that guy that knows he can do something and does it just to look good. In Kirchheim we have a coach who is a competitor.
What has it been like playing for head coach Igor Perovic. He is always liked by his players. Even guys that played for him say 7-8 years ago still rave about him. Have you ever seen a more calm coach then him?
Igor is my guy. I thought at the start that he didn´t like me. I wasn´t getting any fouls called in practice and then coach said I wanted to see how tough you were. I like that he gives us freedom and trusts us in games. He holds everyone to a high standard. He will always hold you accountable. He prepares us very well for each game and let´s us be ourselves.
What is exactly your role on the team? Kirchheim already has a Swiss army knife with Cam Henry, but couldn´t one also describe you as that in a 203cm body? Demetrius Ward calls me a Swiss army knife. My role is to switch and be effective each minute when I´m on the court. I communicate and I play hard and am naturally wired. I feel that if your not tired than your not playing your hardest.
Is there anything that Cam henry doesn´t do? Talk a little about how you guys play together? Are you like 2 defensive anchors on the court?
I think we are. I think that I´m a better defender and more athletic than him. We have both this special uniqueness to our games. He has it in for the guards and I for the bigs.
What has it been like playing with Braden Norris? He is a pass first point guard that shot 42% from outside in the NCAA. One doesn´t see that often as a pass first guard? I played in college with Hagen´s Sincere Carry and he is about the closest comparison that I have to Braden. Carry gave me no look passes and so does Norris. Braden can really pass the ball. He is one of the most positive guys that I know. He never misses a screen.
How vital are bigs Antonio Dorn and Aitor Picket. What have you appreciated most about their games?
Dorn is our enforcer. He hasn´t played much because he was injured. In practice I have never seen a guy with his size that can finish like him with that kind of power. If you don´t double team him, he will make 7 lay ups in a row. Picket is also like a Swiss army knife. The only thing missing is athleticism. His biggest thing is his IQ. He is a 4 that can defend a 5. He is one of our top 5 best shooter son the team. He is always positive.
Let´s talk about your game. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description? The guys that come to mind are Andrew Wiggins, Bobby Portis, Naz Reid and Kawhi Leonard
You’re a guy that can do it all at the forward position. How big is versatility in your game?
The team allows me to play 3-5. When team´s switch it is a nightmare for them. I´m may not be as smart as I want to be, but I´m still smarter than 50% of all players.
How developed is your three pointer at the moment? You shot over 40% in the NCAA and in Canada. What is your goal as a shooter this season?
My goal every year is to be above 35%. I try not to look to much about my 3, but try to maintain my FT %. I feel like if I take good three´s, then I will be in high 30´s.
What kind of a defender are you right now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? I´m an intense, tenacious and focused defender right now. I would like to become more of a physical defender.
On what areas of your game are you working on most right now so you can continue to improve as a player?
I´m working on my leadership. I want to say the right words and not be aggressive doing it. I want to be the best version of me on and off the floor.
Last summer you played with the Ottawa Blackjacks (Canada-CEBL) averaging 6.7ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 76.9%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 69.2%. What kind of an experience was that? It is a league that has become better known in the last years. What positives could you take from that time?
When I got there, we were 2-8 and we finished at 500. I went from being a practice player to being thrown into the fire. It was like summer hoops. I brought energy and my love for the game.
You played your rookie season with the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 12.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 78.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?
The biggest adjustment was simply how business is handled at the pro level. I experienced how one day, I´m joking and having fun with a teammate and the next day he is on a plane home.
How tough was being swept in the Playoffs by Sheffield? You played them tough in the first 2 games but lost by 3 points in each game. What will you always remember from that series? The first game we competed. I could of thrown the ball backwards and it would have gone in. The basketball God was on my side. We lost the last 2 games because we played with showmanship.
How beneficial was it for you to have played for 3 NCAA teams. What kind of a player were you in 2017 and what kind of a player in 2023?
I began to play the game at age 15 and went to college at age 18. I came to the NCAA with athleticism and I couldn´t shoot the ball. Basketball was my staple. I was hungry, but also had to prove myself. In my last year at Kent State, I was on a really good team. We had 2 really good guards and with me were the big 3. I was on a pedestal. It was my reward after many years of hard work.
You played your first NCAA season with the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (NCAA). You had a very solid freshman season averaging 11.2ppg, 7.7rpg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 16.3%, FT: 64.2%. How do you feel did your game benefit as you averaged 26 minutes per game. I was really blessed that they started 4 freshmen. That year we were 7-28 and my last year at Kent State we were 28-7. That was God´s plan. I had no plan what a basketball program was my freshman year. I was more a sponge that season.
You were challenged right in your first game losing by 26 points to Georgetown and head coach Patrick Ewing, but you scored 16 points. Did that game give you a sense that you belonged in the NCAA right away? That performance gave me a sense that I belonged. I should of committed to a school later, but did to this school at the start of my senior year in high school. I had been the first from my family to go to college. I was just happy to have gotten in.
You then played 3 years at Ball State where you made strides each season in your scoring. How valuable were these 3 years in your basketball development under James Whitford?
Coach Whitford was the best off the court coach that I ever had. He coached so many diverse players and had to face with so much adversary, but he always stuck with his players. My 3 years there allowed me to become a shooter. I worked with a ball machine and took 10,000 shots. I went from 17% to high 30´s from downtown.
You had many great games at Ball State like scoring 26 points in a win at Miami, Ohio. What was your fondest moment on the court at Ball State?
My fondest game was a home game against Bowling Green. I had a terrible offensive game. My match up was Daequan Plowden. I took a 1 dribble pull up jumper at the end to win the game. Despite not having a good offensive game, I stuck with it and played hard. The whole team stormed on the court and dog piled me.
You then finished at Kent State University (NCAA) averaging 10.3ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 72.0%. How important was it adding a 5 year for your basketball development. You demonstrated consistency again there
I got better defensively and got pushed. Coach Rob pushed me to be my best. Before coming there, I was always a role player, but there I was part of a dynamic.
You had the luxury to have played for so many different coaches at a young age. How did head coach Rob Senderoff give you that added push there and help you be prepared for a pro career? He held me accountable for my job. We were top 5 in defense in the nation. We would sit down, take notes, laugh and get better.
You reached the big dance losing to Indiana. You didn´t have a great shooting night. What memories will you always have from that game? I learned that I wasn´t Michael Jordan. I had the flu. We couldn´t throw our best punch. You couldn´t tell I had the flu. I did what I could.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Chris Payton? He could really jump. But my toughest match up was against Malik Jacobs.
Who was the greatest player that you ever faced on the court that was in the NBA? Isaiah Stewart and Jaden McDaniels
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Me, Sincere Carry, Markell John son, Deng Adel, Chris Payton
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Lebron James, Steph Curry, Shaq, Allen Iverson
Who is your GOAT? Lebron James
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I haven´t seen it.
John Fulkerson (206-F-1997, college: Tennessee) is a 27 year old 206cm forward from Tennessee playing his third professional season and first with Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL). He played his first 2 pro seasons with Stella Artois Leuven Bears (Belgium BNXT League) averaging 9.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.8%, 3PT: 10.0%, FT: 74.7% and last season averaged 11.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 61.9%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 61.1%. He began his basketball career with / Christ Presbyterian Academy. He then played at the University of Tennessee from 2016-2022 playing a total of 165 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against the Bamberg Baskets.
Thanks John for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you and what have you enjoyed most from the experience?
It has been a good, fun experience. The staff, my teammates and the fans are really enjoyable to be around. The competition is a good challenge. We play very respectable programs and we work to get better every day. What I have enjoyed the most is getting to play with the guys I do.
Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL) is in the middle of the pack in the Polish first division. What does the club have to do better in the next 2 months to reach the playoffs?
We have to play together as a team and work to get better every day.
Your playing Bamberg in the ENBL quarterfinals. Your still searching for your first pro chip. What kind of a series can we await? It will be a very competitive and intense series.
Bamberg are the favorite on Paper. What will be key to getting by them and advancing? We just have to play our game and limit them to one shot per possession. It will be important to take out their key strengths.
What has it been like sharing the court with Swedish national player Denzel Andersson. What have you appreciated most about his game?
Denzel is a great basketball player, but even better person. He is a great, genuine guy on and off the court. He’s very funny and personable.
How valuable has a guy like Mateusz Bartosz been for your game? He is 37 years old and has much experience. How has he helped your game most in practice? He has helped my game tremendously. He is always talking to me about how to improve upon different things, and how to approach different things that teams are doing. It is awesome having someone like him around and being able to pick his brain.
You’re a 206cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? Domantas Sabonis
You’re a guy that can score and rebound. What other strengths does your game have? My philosophy is to focus on what you’re good at and let the other things come.
You don´t take many three´s. Is incorporating a three into your game of high priority for you? Yes, I worked hard in between seasons to get my three to the place where it can be incorporated. I am always trying to expand my game.
How would you classify yourself as a defender right now? What kind of a defender do you still want to become? I want to be the kind of defender my teammates can rely on.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? I am always trying to improve in all areas and be the best teammate I can be.
You played your first 2 seasons with Stella Artois Leuven Bears averaging 9.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.8%, 3PT: 10.0%, FT: 74.7% and 11.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 61.9%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 61.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? There wasn’t necessarily any wake up call, but was a pretty cool realization that playing basketball was my job now.
You lost a tough playoff series against Charleroi in your rookie season. How tough was losing game 1 83-82? Did that loss effect the team mentally? It is always tough to lose by 1, 2, or 3 points because that means it was a 1 possession game. Thinking back, you always “could” have made 1 single play, made a shot or went harder on defense. You always have to stay tough mentally though.
You played at the University of Tennessee (NCAA) from 2016-2022 playing a total of 165 games. You played 6 seasons there and reached 4 March Madnesses. Were these some of the best times in your life? Absolutely. Playing basketball for the University of Tennessee was a dream come true for a kid from Tennessee. Those 6 years were some of the best.
In the 19-20 season you had your personal best season, but didn´t reach the NCAA tournament. You beat Kentucky again coming back from 17 points down and scored 27 points being the best player on the court with the likes of future NBA guys like Tyrese Maxey and Immanuel Quickly. Was this one of your fondest moments in the NCAA?
Yes, the Kentucky game is one that will live with me forever. It was a huge win for the program, and our team really came together for a big win against a tough opponent.
You played in 4 NCAA tournaments. Which run was the sweetest?
They were all very memorable. Each tournament holds different memories and opponents. You truly never know what can happen during March Madness.
In your second season you helped beat Kentucky and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had only 3 points. If someone would of told you then that this guy would be a top 5 NBA player in 2025 what would you have thought? I could have seen it. SGA has definitely expanded his game but even back then, you could tell he was going to be special in the league.
You had so many incredible teammates and guys that reached the NBA. Which guy had the biggest impact on you? Possibly Grant Williams? Definitely. Each of my former teammates had an impact on me in some way or another. I consider Grant one of my best friends. We were roommates during his time at Tennessee and really got to be there for one another through it all.
You were a fan favorite and fans called you the incredible Fulk. What was your coolest fan experience? The coolest experience was when all of the arena at Tennessee was chanting my name.
How did head coach Rick Barnes groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Coach Barnes demanded the best out of you every single day and held you to a very high standard. He really wants to shape you into a good basketball player, but a good person above all else.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Kyle Alexander? Kyle probably
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA? Bam Adebayo was the toughest player I have ever played against. I played him during high school.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?
I had too many good teammates over 6 Years to only pick five of them.
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Lebron James, Steph, Wilt, MJ
Who is your GOAT? Lebron James
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I have not seen it. I will have to watch it.
Danas Kazakevicius (207-PF-2005, agency: Highlight Athletes) is a 19 year old 206cm power forward from Lithuania playing his first season with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf currently averaging 11,9ppg, 8,2rpg, and 1,3apg. He came to Germany ín 2021 and played with the at Brose Bamberg / Troester Breitenguessb. U19 Team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 10,2ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 67.6%. In 2022-2023 he continued to paly with the Brose Bamberg / Troester Breitenguessb. U19 Team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 10.8ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 59.0%, FT: 75.5% and also played with BBC Coburg averaging 3,4ppg and 2,4rpg. Last season his roles grew with BBC Coburg (Germany-ProB) averaging 7.6ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP-3 (70.6%), FT: 79.2% and with Brose Bamberg / Troester Breitenguessb. U19 Team (Germany-NBBL) averaged 21.7ppg, Reb-5 (9.7rpg), 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 66.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Danas for talking to germanhoops.com.. Did you sense a winning culture mentality when you arrived in 2024? Yes I did. Many guys remained and they are hungry to win again. My goal is to win a title. First we win as much as possible in the regular season and then see what happens in the playoffs.
You came from a very well known program Bamberg to Rhondorf. It seems like a step back, but you don´t think it is. Why? I really believe it´s not a step back, but a step forward. I want to keep improving my individual skills and think I can do it best in Rhondorf.
Ex Head coach Stephan Dohrn was very high on your qualities. What were the main reasons for signing with the Dragons Rhondorf?
I think the whole package fit for me. I like the communication between BBL team and Dragons as well as seeing how well the Dragons organization works and of course the great fan support.
How did the first talks go with coach Dohrn? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy? I really like his mentality. For him the small details are very important. He always wants to make everything as perfect as possible. If anything is wrong, he always wants to explain and fix it. My playing style fits his coaching style.
Before we talk about your game, please talk a little about your childhood in Lithuania. Who were your basketball idols growing up? Domantas Sabonas, Jonas Valanciunas and Kobe Bryant
How vital were the first years in Lithuania for your basketball? Was there a coach or person that influenced you the most? I can´t name just one. There were many that influenced me and still help me with my game during the summers.
You came to the Bamberg program in 2021. How did the contact come to Bamberg and why did you chose to go there? A Bamberg coach saw me play in Lithuania and I was invited to a tryout. I was there 3-4 days and they liked my game.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 206cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? People compare me to Domantas Sabonis, but I´m a bit smaller.
You’re a big man that fills the stat sheet very well. Would you classify yourself as a classic modern day big man? I´m not a typical big man, but play the 4/5 position. It really doesn´t matter if I play the 4/5, because in today´s game they do the same job.
You can do so much offensively and are very quick and mobile for 206cm. What do you think is your biggest strength on the court? I´m a big man that likes to run the court and I like to pass the ball. I can pretty much do many things really well, but not one thing best.
You’re a very good rebounder. What do you still need to improve with your rebounding? I need better timing and knowing where the ball will bounce off the rim. I can also improve boxing out and knowing where the ball will land.
You only attempted 4 three´s in the Pro B last season. Do you plan to implement your three more into your game? I hope so. I have worked all summer on my three pointer. I have spoked to coach Stephan and they want to add my three to the game plan.
Do you feel like your defensive skills are still raw? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? You will have to ask coach what kind of a defender I am right now. In the future I want to be able to switch 1-5 and have no problems with mismatches. I want to become a very mobile defender.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? I´m working on all areas of my game, but mostly on being able to make quicker decisions.
You came to Bamberg in 2021 and played NBBL. What do you remember being your wake up call to being in Germany where you knew that you were far away from home? I was 15 years old when I came. The first months were tough. I was confused about how my life would work there. I was far from home and scared about the language problem. But after time, my teammates made me feel comfortable and it felt like a second home.
In 2021 you played in the U-17 World Cup and saw the massive talent Cooper Flag put up 5/6 stats in 17 minutes. What memories do you have from him them? He recently practiced with Team USA before the Olympics. At that time, people were already talking about him. He was a silent boy and doing a lot of the dirty work on the court. It was nice to play him. He looks like he will be the #1 pick in the 2025 NBA draft.
In your second season and first with Coburg, you were teammates with Leon Bulic. How vital was he for you that season? How did he help you most to grow? We were close. We had a type of bond in that he came from Croatia and I from Lithuania. We battled every day in practice. It was always difficult to paly against him. I surely annoyed him at times with my fouls and he complained. However we are still friends to this day. When I asked him if I should go to Rhondorf, he said Danas you have to do it.
Last season your game rose as in the Pro B you averaged 7.6ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP-3 (70.6%), FT: 79.2%, and in the NBBL with Bamberg averaged (21.7ppg), Reb-5 (9.7rpg), 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 66.3%. How did your game grow last season? My game grew in the NBBL. I had a huge role in the NBBL while in the Pro B, I was a big fighting for minutes. When the NBBL season ended, I focused more on the Pro B and I was able to step up my game.
You had to incredible games against Rhondorf and FC Munich 2 scoring 25 points a piece and shooting combined 20/23. What game was better?
Well we did lose both games. I think my game against Rhondorf was the better game. I was playing against my old teammate Tyrese Blunt and a top team with Rhondorf.
Who is the toughest player that you ever played against in your life that reached the NBA? There are too many to name. I played against many tough BBL players
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? All my teammates in the Bamberg youth teams.
What is your NBA and Euro Mount Rushmore? Kobe, Jordan, Lebron, Doncic, Nowtzki
Paul and Marc Gasol, Guershon Yabusele, Rudy Fernandez
Kelvin Omojola (183-G-1997, college: Northwest) is a 27year old 183cm point guard that is playing his fourth professional season and fourth in Germany and second with the Dragons Rhondorf helping them win the pro B title last season averaging 12.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-2 (6.1apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 79.5%. In 2022-2023 he played with PS Karlsruhe (Pro A) averaging 3,1ppg and as a rookie played with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (Germany-ProB) averaging 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 71.8%. He began his basketball career at Green Valley high school and then played at Red Deer (JUCO), Benedict College (NCAA2) averaging 9.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 66.7% and Northwest University (NAIA) averaging 7.4ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 62.1% and 13.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 54.2%, FT: 87.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 97-81 win over Team Ehingen.
Thanks Kelvin for talking to germanhoops.com. How did you spend the Fiba break? Hey Miles, thank you for having me as always. The FIBA Break was very chill for me, I didn’t do too much. I stayed here in Bad Honnef just working out and enjoying the time off.
How vital was the Fiba Break for the Dragons Rhondorf. Did the team do some soul searching? It was huge! It gave us some much needed rest and time off, while also getting a good amount of practices together with the entire team.
The loss in Speyer was very disappointing. Did the team have the feeling going into the Ehingen game that that can’t happen again?
Yes, we knew this game was a must win. We need to defend our home court and we want to make the playoffs. That started by us getting this win vs. Ehingen.
Congrats on the massive 97-81 win over Ehingen. With what kind of a game plan did you go into that game?
We knew we had to come out with high energy and intensity. The past few games we got out to terrible starts and dug ourselves huge holes. Trying to overcome a 15 point lead is extremely tough and gives you no room for error if you want to make a comeback. So getting out to a great start to set the tone for the game was our mindset and game plan.
Rhondorf had the 24-20 advantage after 10 minutes. Jaylin Alston scored the first 10 points., You guys must have been aware that he scored 47 points in the last game against the RheinStars. What was the game plan on him? Yeah he’s a tough cover. He has an extremely high motor and is very athletic, so we knew it would take a team effort to defend him.
What made it most difficult to slow him down? Is he the definition of an incredible walking bucket?
He plays extremely hard and his motor is second to none. Those attributes along with his athleticism, you see why he’s a great scorer. You just have to be ready to guard him as a team in order to slow him down.
In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf stepped it up on the offensive end scoring 36 points, but were still shaky on defense allowing 26 points. What was giving the team the most problems on the defensive end?
Alston was the only issue. He had 27 at the half if I’m not mistaken, that’s too many points for anyone to have. Let alone in a half. We just have to be ready to box out, rebound, and protect the paint.
In the third quarter the Dragons Rhondorf only allowed 15 points and overall allowed only 35 points in the second half. What adjustments did the team make?
We just continued to trust not only the gameplay, but each other. We were flying around defensively, had excellent ball movement, crashed the glass on both ends.
The Dragons Rhondorf finished the game strong. How proud were you that the team had no let up down the stretch? I loved it Miles, we kept playing until the buzzer said 0:00. We need to do that every game, no matter what the score is.
The team had an overall very strong game. It led the rebound battle and had 17 offensive rebounds, had 21 assists and only 10 turnovers. What was the team’s biggest strength on the night? Our biggest strength on the night was our continuity. We played together and as a team for the entire game. From the starters to the second unit, everyone came in and played with high energy and focus.
The Dragons Rhondorf had 6 guys scoring in double figures. The balance was there. How in sync is the offense now at this crucial stage of the season? Our offense is starting to come together Miles. We implemented some new concepts under Coach Marko which is helping our offense. We just need to keep building and get more adjusted to the new system.
Kenan Reinhart had one of his best games this season with 14 points in 13 minutes being very efficient. Is he slowly breaking out of his shell? It must be tough always getting up and down minutes? Yes Kenan had a great game! He’s a really good player who has a ton of potential. He’s always confident and I love it. It’s definitely tough for any player but everyone goes through it throughout their basketball journey. It’s only going to make him a better player as time goes on.
How proud are you of Tim Smith rebounding the way he did after his goose egg in Speyer with 16 points. His dominant game isn’t there like in the first 2 months. Do you help him with self-confidence?
Tim is a great player, he doesn’t need any help with confidence. He is extremely skilled, athletic, elite shot maker, I can keep going. He’ll be playing in higher level leagues very, very soon.
Antomio Pilipovic also had a solid game after a few tough games where he didn’t score in double figures. How has he grown in general as a person now having that double function as player and boss in the Dragons office?
Yeah AP is balancing the GM position and player position very well. He’s definitely grown as a leader, but he’s still the same AP which is great.
You had a strong game with 14 points, 5 rebounds and 8 dimes. How content were you with your effort despite 2 turnovers? I loved how I played. I’m not even concerned about the stats but I loved how my energy and intensity was from the beginning of the game. I wanted to make an impact defensively and help us start the game strong.
Your minutes have been down a bit in the last months, but you had another 30 minute game. How is your relationship with new head coach Marko Zarkovic? It’s good! Coach Marko is a great guy, professional, and I’ve really enjoyed being able to work with him. He’s doing whatever it takes to help us win games and make the playoffs.
What is your biggest goal now as a player in the last 6 regular season games? Your leadership will be crucial for the team to reach the playoffs. The biggest goal Miles is to defend our home court, and try and steal a few road games. We need to do this so we can get into the playoffs. We have the team to do so, we just need to go and execute it!
The club next plays top team Leitershofen that beat you 115-105 in OT. How excited are you to see Ferenc Gille again? It’s going to be great to see Ferenc again! He’s such a great guy, I love Ferenc and I loved being his teammate last season. He was a major piece in us winning the championship last season. And of course, us winning a championship gives us a bond that we’ll always have!
The Dragons Rhondorf can’t be up and down, but need a great performance. How aware are you that a win could really change the season around? I’m very aware Miles. We have the talent to do so, we just need to come together as a unit and get it done! We all want to make the playoffs and that’s our goal. One game at a time.
What will be key to beating top team leitershofen?
They have a great team this season, we need to continue to play together and come out with an energy/intensity that will set the tone for the game.
Where do you rate the 2025 NBA slam dunk dunk by Mac McClung?
Mac is an elite dunker, you can see why he’s won the contest 3 times in a row. But I hope next year we get the NBA stars in the contest like Zion, Ja, etc.
With the Fiba break over, it was time for the Frankfurt Skyliners to get back down to business. There were was a little more than 2 months left in the season as Frankfurt was fighting to remain in the league. Frankfurt had a good 4 game cushion between last placed BG Goettingn, but they still wanted to finish the season strong and perhaps even go on a run with wins. They came into the game with the Hamburg Towers with added self-confidence as they still had their cup run in the back of their minds. They met Hamburg who had 3 wins more, but had a 2 game losing streak. On a mild Saturday night, this was a contest that displayed 2 teams where nobody team was going to lay down and die as both kept it close for the most part of the game. The Hamburg Towers guard terror of Ivey, Lottie and Stove combined for 50 points in the 45 minutes and when it counted most overpowered Frankfurt in overtime to seal their 9th win of the easyCredit BBL season. “ We didn´t start strong, but we always give ourselves a chance to win. We have grown this season in our faith to win. We always believe that we can win the fight. It always starts on defense. Our grit is our biggest strength and was tonight”, stressed Hamburg Tower guard Brae Ivey (187-PG-1997, college: SJSU, agency: LHZ Sport Agency). Frankfurt fought the whole game, but when it counted most in overtime, couldn´t execute and make the big plays to overcome Hamburg. “We defended very well, but we didn´t punish them enough when we could of. Our defense was the reason that we even reached overtime. We stuck together the whole game and made things tough for them”, stressed Frankfurt Skyliner Timo Lanmueller.
Jonathan Stove at the FT line
The Frankfurt Skyliners came out strong defensively, but the Hamburg Towers didn´t play with a high intensity and couldn´t match Frankfurt´s energy early on and didn´t move the ball well. Frankfurt took the rapid 10-3 lead as everything looked fabulous in their living room in the first 5 minutes of the game. Frankfurt were pushing the ball inside and got easy baskets from ex Alba Berlin big man Lorenz Brenneke and ex University of Texas (NCAA) forward Kamaka Hepa. They were also aggressive getting to the free throw line as ex Boston College forward Patrick Heckman added 4 points. Hamburg then got 2 easy baskets from ex MBC guard Jonathan Stove and 19 year old German big man Fabian Giessmann who came from TK Hannover as Frankfurt only led 12-7. However Frankfurt closed out the first quarter strong as Canadian David Muenkat scored and ex Trier guard Garai Zeeb connected on free throws for the commanding 17-9 advantage after 10 minutes. Frankfurt shot 31% from the field and 0% from outside and had 12 rebounds an d 2 turnovers while the Hamburg Towers shot 24% from the field and 0% from outside and had 12 rebounds and 4 turnovers. No three was falling as both teams were o/11 combined. “They didn´t do anything special on defense. We just didn´t hit shots. We missed like 3 wide open three´s and some easy layups”, stressed Brae Ivey.
Malik Parsons at the FT line
In the second quarter the Frankfurt Skyliners continued to have the comfortable lead, but the Hamburg Towers slowly began to execute better and play more as a team as they trailed only by 3 points at half-time. Ex Seton Hall (NCAA) guard Jordan Theodore and Stove traded buckets to start as Frankfurt led 19-11. However Frankfurt began to get sloppy taking care of the ball due partly to Hamburg´s more aggressive defense and began to chip away at Frankfurt´s lead going on a 11-4 run to suddenly only trail 25-22. In the run, Hamburg got good support from their guard terror and Ivey and ex Flager University (NCAA2) guard Jaizec Lottie scored on drives while ex University of Utah (NCAA) forward Kenneth Ogbe scored as did Giessmann again. Frankfurt´s defensive intensity had dipped a bit and their 1-1 defense as well. Frankfurt did maintain the slight lead going into the break at 29-26. Jordan Theodore who seemingly can always get a bucket on the drive due to his still available speed and finding his spots well did while Stove dropped a trey. “The Fiba break was a good time to shake off the rust and get our feel back. We warmed up in the second quarter”, stated Hamburg guard Brae Ivey. The Frankfurt Skyliners shot 30% from the field and 0% from the three point line and had 22 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Hamburg Towers shot 30% from the field and 11% from the three point line and had 22 rebounds and 5 turnovers.
Brae Ivey from outside
The third quarter continued to be a battle where Frankfurt did lead by 5 points only to lose it again as Hamburg crept back and led by 1 point after 30 minutes. Brae Ivey who played JUCO ball at Riverside City College and made it to the ACB in Spain played superb on ball defense in the first seconds to steal the ball from ex Euroleague guard Jordan Theodore and went on transition for the easy basket, but Frankfurt still led 29-28. Frankfurt then got much needed input from new guard Marcus Domask who averaged 9,0ppg in the G-League with Windy City added 5 points including a trey giving Frankfurt the 34-29 advantage. However Frankfurt didn´t get any breathing room as Hamburg just kept supplying the guard terror. Domask did deliver another bomb from outside, but Brae Ivey just stayed focused and added 5 points to dead lock the game at 39-39. Ivey´s great ball handling and quickness always gave him advantages over the Frankfurt defense and he executed the way an ex ACB player should. Hamburg then took control of the game as now it was Lottie´s opportunity as he nailed 2 three´s. Frankfurt stayed strong punching back as ex Artland Dragon Jacob Knauf scored with a lay in and Heckman netted a trey. Then 208cm center kur Kuath who hails from South Sudan and played at Marquette (NCAA) made a massive alley-oop dunk as Lottie served up the dime. “We see Kur do that 1-2 times a game. He is our lob guy. That was a nice dunk”, said Brae Ivey. Giessmann added a lay in and ex Northwestern Oklahoma State University (NCAA2) guard Malik Parsons added free throws as the Hamburg Towers led 49-48. “It was tough going back and forth. You just wanted to break through that wall”, added Brae Ivey. “We kept punching back. But it was difficult to stop their guards. They are all 3 level scorers. They kept us on our toes all night long”, stressed Timo Lanmueller.
Jordan Theodore to the rim
In the fourth quarter the battling back and forth continued as the Hamburg Towers kept their noses slightly ahead as Frankfurt continued to stay with them. Parsons could have won the game, but he was 2 seconds to late to getting the basket. Hamburg came out strong getting that continued fine effort from the guard terror as Lottie and Stove connected for the 54-50 advantage. But Frankfurt always had an answer as Hepa contributed 4 points and Frankfurt trailed only 54-52. Frankfurt then found some instant energy going on a swift 6-0 run as Domask and Einaras Tubutis let it rain three´s as Frankfurt snatched the lead back 59-58. But that was only momentarily as Hamburg went on a 6-1 run to lead 64-60. Ivey and Stove as usual scored with off balance treats that never look easy, while ex University of Missouri (NCAA) guard Jordan Barrett also joined the guard terror party with a fine floater. The mini runs continued to go back and forth as walking bucket and scoring in bunches master Malik Parson took matters into his own hands and scored 7 unanswered points including a trey for the 67-66 Frankfurt lead with less than a minute remaining. But Hamburg had nerves of steel as despite being in a different hostile living room, they always had an answer. Ivey dropped a clutch trey for the 69-67 lead with 19 seconds remaining. Instead of going for the three to win, Frankfurt decided to go for 2 as Theodore scored to tie the game at 69-69. Hamburg had one last chance, but Brae Ivey slipped and lost the ball, but Parsons got it to late as he sped over center court as time ran out before his shot was taken. “Going into overtime like that was tough for us. I slipped on the play and lost the ball. I thought the refs had done a good job in the game. That was my mistake. You live and learn from that”, expressed Brae Ivey. “We could of won. They had some luck with 50/50 balls and rebounds, but we fought together and never gave up”, said Timo Lanmueller. Frankfurt shot 38% from the field and 25% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Hamburg Towers shot 41% from the field and 28% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 13 turnovers.
Einaras Tubutis from downtown
In the overtime period, both teams took good care of the ball suffering no turnovers and punched back in the first possessions, but the Hamburg Towers then took control and never looked back making the plays while Frankfurt didn´t. German Osaro Rich who once played with medi Bayreuth and Tubutis traded baskets as the game was tied 71-71. Parsons then made a runner, but Kuath made another big dunk to dead lock the game at 73-73. Hamburg then decided the game with a ruthless 6-2 run to lead 81-75 and never looked back. Ivey who could plaster “clutch shot” on his forehead and nobody would disagree hit a three pointer while Rich and Lottie scored on drives. The arena got quieter except for the Towers bench that could slowly smell victory. Jordan Theodore added a big rainbow three pointer to cut the lead down to 81-78 with 58 seconds remaining. However Hamburg added a free throw by Stove to get that vital 4 point cushion. Theodore then missed a shot and Ivey iced the win with free throws. “We just made the plays. In a situation like OT, it doesn´t come down to tactics anymore, but the best players just have to make plays. I´m blessed that we have teammates that have trust in myself and others to take these shots”, said Brae Ivey. “Ivey and Lotte punished us hitting tough shots. We didn´t defend as well as we should of”, stated Timo Lanmueller. The Hamburg Towers were led by Brae Ivey with 18 points while Jonathan Stove added 17 points and Jaizec Lottie 15 points while the Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Malik parson with 15 points while Marcus Domask had 12 points and Jordan Theodore 11 points and 6 assists. The Hamburg Towers shot 44% from the field and 31% from outside and had 47 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 39% from the field and 25 % from outside and had 38 rebounds and 13 turnovers.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Avery Sullivan in Rhondorf in 2023
Avery Sullivan (203-F/C-1999, college: Lamar) is a 24 year old 203cm center from Texas that is playing this season with Lahti Basketball (Finland-Korisliiga) currently averaging 20,6ppg, 10,8rpg4,3apg, 2,6spg and 1,3bpg. Last season he played with the Dragons Rhondorf averaging 13.7ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 60.1%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 70.2% and helped them win the Pro B title. In 2022-2023 he played with KB Teuta Durres (Albania-Superliga) averaging 16.0ppg, Reb-3 (11.0rpg), 1.6apg, 1.5spg, Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 70.5%. He played his rookie season with at Depiro Rabat Imtarfa (Malta-BOV League D1). He began his basketball career with Pflugerville High School and then played 4 seasons and 102 NCAA games at Lamar averaging 12.3ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 50.2%, FT: 74.0% and in his senior year averaged 9.8ppg, 7.2rpg, FGP: 44.3%, FT: 77.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball
Thanks Avery for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?
I am currently playing in Lahti, Finland not too far from where you last saw me. I would say basketball life is treating me very well at the moment, I couldn’t ask for much more.
You’re playing your first season in Finland with Lahti Basketball (Finland-Korisliiga). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?
Overal it’s been nothing short of great! One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about this new experience would have to be their fan base and overall community engagement.
The winters weren’t that rough in Germany, but how is Finland? Is it tough for a Texas native to get through the winter?
Honestly, when I first signed I was really worried about the winter here in Finland because in Texas we very rarely get snow. When the time came it wasn’t as bad as I had anticipated. Don’t get me wrong it was still very cold and unusual for me as a true Texan, but I enjoyed seeing the snow.
I mean you won titles in Albania and one in Germany and now you’re currently 19-0. Can one say that you’re infectious with winning? I guess some could say that. I, however, just enjoy the feeling of playing each and every game I’m able to. I love the competition of it all.
The team is unbeaten. How does that feel? Does every new game become more difficult because every team is shooting for you?
Winning is always a great feeling, because at the beginning of every season it’s definitely my number one goal to try and win each game played. I would say the pressure from other teams has increased as we move on in the season due to our undefeated streak. It adds more of a target/incentive for other teams to beat us.
The team seems to be very special. It can score a lot, almost averaging 100 per game and gives up only 73 points. What is the team’s biggest strength?
Our biggest strength is everyone’s selflessness and willingness to pass. We love to play in transition to create dunk opportunities and open 3’s.
You won a game 201-54. When I read that I thought WTF? What memories do you have of that game? The memory that stands out to me the most during that game is feeling accomplished in what I was playing for. Although it was a very high scoring game, it was more meaningful to underfunded youth sports, and every point scored meant 10 euros to support those children.
You had a triple double of 53/20/11. Were you superman on this day? How quick did you know that you could have an exceptional game? Again I wasn’t necessarily playing for the stats but overall just wanted to do everything I could in that game to up the amount for charity.
Was this your first triple double in your career? What were you most proud of this from your own game?
Yes this was my first ever triple double. I think overall my self-assessment from that game would have been happy in how I passed the ball and was able to work fluidly with my teammates.
Did you get any cool messages after achieving that triple double from around the world? What about from your ex Dragon’s teammates?
Yes. A lot of my friends who play in Europe had sent texts asking if what they were seeing was real life? My ex-dragon teammates sent the score from that game in our old group chat which led to an in-depth discussion and an analysis of the game. There was definitely a lot of jokes from my ex Dragon’s teammates on why I didn’t do that last year.
What is it like playing with Lue Williams? He also had 50 plus points in the 201 points win. What do you appreciate most about his game?
It’s definitely a blessing to play alongside someone like Lue who is able to compete on both ends of the court. Lue’s willingness to take on the biggest defensive assignment every game is one of the things I appreciate of him.
Did you and him have to get the team dinner after the 201 point win or did they do something for you both? No. We did end up having a team sauna night after the game.
Do you ever kid Lue about his name and annoy him with Lou Williams? I did early on in the season, but over time the joke kind of faded.
14. Let’s talk about your game. You’re averaging 20/10/4 in 30 minutes. Last season you had many scoring options. Are you the main go to guy this season? I wouldn’t say I’m the main go to all the time, but I try to make myself as open as possible to give people that outlet when needed.
15. This season you’re averaging 20/10/4 in 30 minutes and last season in Rhondorf you averaged 13/9/1 in 2 minutes less. That is an incredible jump. How has your game grown this season? I believe I’m starting to read the floor better and recognize situations sooner than before.
You’re making 1.3 spg and almost 3.0 blocks per game in Finland. You improved your defensive game already last season, but how have you seen it develop further in Finland? I think me paying more attention to detail and the patterns in the people I’m guarding has helped me further develop my defensive game.
You obviously want to win that next chip, but how else do you want to continue to improve your game this season? The 2 areas I want to see the most improvement are shooting the 3 ball more consistently and better decision making.
The Dragons Rhondorf aren’t having the kind of season like last year fighting for the playoffs. Do you follow their progress?
Yes, I follow them weekly. I try to catch as many games as I can when they’re on. I will occasionally re-watch the game later if I miss it and don’t talk to the guys first.
Do you still have contact with your ex Dragon teammates? Is there one guy that sticks out most with whom you have contact with? I still talk to most of the guys. I would say Kelvin sticks out to me the most as he was and still is a close friend of mine.
Where do you rank the Mac McClung dunk in the NBAs all-time best dunks?
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Braden Norris in Koblenz 2024
Braden Norris (183-PG-1999, college: Loyola, IL) is a 25 year old 183cm point guard from Ohio playing his rookie season overseas with the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (Germany-ProA) currently averaging 14,0ppg, 2,7rpg, 4,0apg shooting 37% from outside. He began his basketball career at Oakland University (NCAA) and then played 4 years at Loyola University of Chicago (NCAA) where he played a total of 126 games and won 2 MVC titles and reached the NCAA Sweet 16. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Braden for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season in Germany for the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (Germany-ProA). What has it been like coming from small Hilliard, Ohio to Kirchheim? Kirchheim has about 5000 more people living there. To be honest it doesn’t feel much different at all. Hilliard actually feels bigger than Kirchheim even though it’s clearly not.
What has it been like living in Germany. What have you enjoyed most about the country Germany and it ´s culture? It has been good so far it has been a shift of lifestyle, but I am enjoying the culture and life. I have enjoyed the more relaxed and slower lifestyle over here.
Your playing your rookie season with the Knights. What were the main reason for joining this ambitious organization? Did you talk with ex teammates Ryan Schwieger and Aher Uguak who have played in Germany before making the decision? My main reasons were that I knew it was in a good location of the country, in a good league and I knew that coach Igor would put me in good positions to win and show what I can do on the court. I did talk to my former teammates before making the decision.
What has it been like playing for head coach Igor Perovic? What have you enjoyed most about his basketball philosophy?
I have really enjoyed playing for Igor thus far he has really good insight on the game, and he lets me play my game with a lot of freedom.
You won the first game over Giessen 92-73. The team showed it cans score a lot while defending with passion. Will defense be the team staple or three point shooting? I think a combination of our three-point shooting and defense will be our best recipe for success.
What has it been like playing with James Graham. How much does he make your game easy? Playing with James has been great whenever you play with a scorer like that, it frees up everyone else’s game.
What has it been like playing with Cam Henry. He told me you were the reason he signed in Kirccheim to be able to be teammates. You guys had real battles in the NCAA, but he totally respects your game. What do you like most about his game? Playing with Cam has been great. I really respect how he approaches the game of basketball and how he sees the game. He is a very high IQ player that can do all things on the court. He is a great teammate that brings good energy to the gym every day. Most importantly he is a winner and has had a lot of success everywhere he has gone.
Talk about some of the battles you had with Cam Henry in the NCAA. You had his number 2-0.
Yeah Cam and I had a couple of good battles in college. He played for a really good coach in college so the games were always high level on both sides of the ball.
What has it been like being teammates with Lucas Mayer? How much pressure does he put off your game being another talented creator and shooter on your side? Lucas has been great. He brings something we don´t have much on this team and that is high level speed on both sides of the ball. He is a smart player that can shoot the 3 and it is nice knowing I have him in the backcourt with me
Let ´s talk about your game. You’re a 183cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description? I would say I am similar to Colin Gilespie who played at Villanova and is now playing for the Nuggets I believe.
You shot an incredible 43% in the NCAA. How rare is it having a sniper as a point guard who is really a pass first point guard? Yeah I think its pretty rare in these times of basketball. A lot of point guards are now playmakers for themselves and not so much running a team and putting guys in the right spot. I believe I can do a little bit of both of those things.
What are your goals as a three point shooter as a rookie? Do you feel pressure to be able to keep shooting at 40% at the pro level overseas? Don’t really have any goals. I know that if I am doing my job and putting the work in then I should be around 40% but I´m not too focused on anything other than preparation to make the next shot.
You averaged 4,0apg in a 5 year NCAA career. What will be the biggest challenge for you to continue to grow as a playmaker? I think it is just continuing to learn the game. Their isn´t a defensive coverage I haven´t seen so just being able to make quicker decisions will make things even easier as always.
Your also a solid defender. Talk a little about your defensive game and it ´s strengths? I would say I´m more than just a solid defender. With my IQ and my communication I think it makes up for my lack of size and athleticism. If you watch me play I very rarely get beat off the dribble.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve as a player? Continuing working on different shots in the paint and off the dribble.
You began your NCAA career at Oakland averaging 8.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 5.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 30.0%, 3PT: 49.0%, FT: 74.0%. What positives could you get out of that season? The positives were proving to everyone that I am plenty good enough to play at that level.
You then transferred to Loyola University of Chicago (NCAA) winning the MVC title twice over Drake. Which one was sweeter? They were both equally as sweet- winning never gets old.
You also played at 2 NCAA tournaments losing to Oregon State and Ohio State. What memories do you have of those runs? Just being in those moments with my brothers. Those moments are what you work for as a player and to be able to share those moments with people you love is special.
How did head coach Drew Valentine groom and prepare you best for a professional career? I wouldn’t be in position without Drew. He pushed me to get to where I´m at and I´m forever grateful.
Who was the greatest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA? RJ Barrett or Darius Garland.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Cam Krutwig, Lucas Williamson, Aher Uguak, Keith Clemons and Phil Alston.
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Lebron, MJ, Steph and Shaq
Who is your GOAT? Lebron
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America film? Shouldn ´t they have left it alone? I did not see that.
German Hoops 