Aaron Ekwere (190-G-2006) is a 19 year old 190cm guard from Finland playing this season with Pantterit Helsinki (1st Division) 25,6ppg, 8,3rpg, 5,6apg and 3,4spg and with Drive Academy Espoo U20 team (EYBL U20). He began his basketball career with Pyrinto Akatemia B Tampere (1st Division). He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.
Thanks Aaron for talking to germanhoops.com. Let´s talk about your career. Your from Finland. When did you began to play and was there a moment that you will never forget that brought you that early love for the game?
I started basketball at four but I have always been around basketball and I have always loved id so it is impossible to just pick one moment that made me fall in love with it.
Who were your early basketball players inspirations?
Russel Westbrook has always been my favorite player and somebody who I have always been inspired by.
Did you have any early basketball mentors in your career with Pyrinto Tampere?
I have tons of good coaches and older teammates who have guided me in my journey but if I had to name a few then i would have to mention my former teammate Kion Williams and coach Kari Kilpinen and Santeri Liljeberg.
You were 16 years old when you made your debut with PyrintoAkatemia B Tampere (1st Division) averaging 8.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.9apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 63.6%, 3PT: 21.4%, FT: 50.0% How valuable was that season playing with men already? I feel like that season was very important for preparing me for playing more physical and against grown men
You gained valuable experience from 2023-2025 playing with theDrive Academy London U20 team (United Kingdom-EYBL U20) averaging 19.3ppg, RPG-5 (11.7), 4.0apg, SPG-3 (3.4), 1.2bpg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 54.7%. and 17.2ppg, 7.8rpg, 3.2apg, SPG-3 (3.3), FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 54.5%, played also at Drive Basketball Academy Black (U19 League, starting five) How did your game grow that season? I feel like I became a more well rounded in my game improving on my weaknesses
You won the U-19 Finnish title twice. Which title was sweetest? Definitely the last one because the final was played in my home city and the game went to overtime
This season your playing with Pantterit Helsinki (1st Division) averaging 24/7/5/4 stats. Is it fair to say this has been your career break through? Yeah definitely I feel like my game has developed to the next level and it has been nice to see my hard work paying off
Let´s talk a little about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player or Euroleague player who would best fit the description? I have grown since so I currently stand at 198 so right now I would compare my game to prime Ben Simmons or Russel Westbrook
If one views your stats this season, it looks like a Russell Westbrook stat line. How big is versatility in your game? I feel like it is a very big part of my game and a big reason I can adjust to playing with different teams and systems
You’re a great rebounder for your height. Have you always had that special knack to grab rebounds? Yea it´s just something I have always been good at even if I´m not the biggest guy on the team
What kind of a defender would you describe yourself? What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I would describe myself as a very versatile defender and I can guard many positions and I can do a lot of positive things for my team in the defensive end. I definitely still want to improve on the quickness of my feet so I can apply even more pressure on the ball
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? Shooting is my biggest weakness and something I try to improve on so I can develop my game
You have been a junior national player for Finland. How is the state of Finnish basketball? What young prospects can you report about at the moment that we should look for? Finnish basketball is definitely on the rise which you can see from the 4th place finish in eurobasket last year. Iwould definitely tell everybody to keep an eye on Joseph Tala and Luca Bah. They are very promising Finish young prospects
You had a solid showing at the FIBA U18 EuroBasket in Tampere (Finland) in 2024 averaging 9.1ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 40.0%. You had good games against Greece and Spain. What memories will you always have of that first big youth tournament? Definitely the memory I´m most fond of is our upset win against Lithuania on opening day
You poured it up a notch with your game at the FIBA U20 EuroBasket in Heraklion (Greece) in 2025 averaging PPG-5 (16.9), 5.7rpg, 2.1apg, SPG-2 (2.6), FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 66.0%. You had a great game against Germany scoring 25 points, but lost a heartbreaker 82-81. What memories do you have of that game? I still think about that game weekly because I missed the tying shot in the last second so I tend to blame myself for that loss. Definitely something that has given me motivation though
Who is the toughest player that you ever battled in your life that reached the NBA or Euroleague? In a game the toughest has to be either Hugo Gonzalez or Neoklis Avdalas but in practice Lauri Markkanen is the best player I have battled against.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Okku Federiko, Olavi Suutela, Elmeri Abbey, Abdullah Amzil, Eetu Heinonen
Please name your NBA, Euro and Finnish Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time for each category?
NBA: Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Kobe Bryant
Euro: Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Dirk Nowitzki and Gannis
Finland: Lauri Markkanen, Hanno Möttölä, Petteri Koponen and Sasu Salin
Jackson Threadgill (198-G-1997, college: App State) is a 198cm forward from Concord, North Carolina that played his rookie season overseas with Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D1) winning multiple titles averaging 24.9ppg)#, 6.0rpg, 3.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 59.9%, 3PT-1 (50.0%), FT: 75.9%. He began his basketball career at Davidson Day School and then played 4 seasons with the University of North Carolina at Charlotte playing a total of 110 NCAA games. He then added on a season with Appalachian State University. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.
Your played your rookie season overseas with Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D-1). What kind of an experience has it been for you and what have you enjoyed most about the experience? The experience has been great. The hospitality from the people and the organization has been something I’m very thankful for. I’ve really enjoyed getting to learn about the country and a lot of historical and religious facts about the island.
How have you learned to appreciate the culture and beauty of Malta? What has been your fondest moment off the court in Malta?
I think just appreciating change and something new from what I’ve been accustomed to back home. My fondest memory has probably been when my family came out and I got to take them to places on the island. They’ve never left the United States, so it was special to have the opportunity to show them something new.
You have become an explosive player overseas something you weren´t in the NCAA. How refreshing is it being able to showcase your skills like that?
It hasn’t really had a big impact on me. I’m just more interested on doing what needs to be done in order to win games and that’s all I’m focused on.
What kind of a player have you become in Malta? How has your game grown in Malta? I think the biggest growth has just come from my confidence in who I am as a player and that shows with the performances I’ve had.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 198cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? I’d probably say a Bogdan Bogdanovic or a Donte Divincenzo
You fill the stat sheet really well. How big is versatility in your game now overseas? It’s very important. Just trying to do all the things that I’m asked to do in order to win games. Whether it’s scoring, playmaking, rebounding, or defending, whatever the team needs from me I’m willing to do.
You were kind of a up and down three point shooter in the NCAA, but really exploded in Malta. How have you seen your development as a shooter? What kind of a shooter do you still want to become?
I think the biggest thing has been in trusting my stroke and the work I put into it. I still want to continue to be a better off the dribble 3 point shooter and off the move.
Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you right now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? I’d say I’m a versatile defender. I can guard several positions and try to use my length to make things tough on my opponent.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now as you continue to improve your game? Continue to work on my strength training, sharpening my handle, attacking the basket, and shooting from the perimeter off the dribble.
You played at the The University of North Carolina at Charlotte from 2020-2024 and won the CBI title in 2023. What kind of an experience were these 4 years? What kind of a player did you become there? I loved my time at Charlotte. I’m very thankful for my coaches Ron Sanchez and Aaron Fearne for giving me the opportunity to play there. I met some of my closest friends and created a lot of relationships. I also developed a lot as a player. I improved a lot on the defensive side of the ball, became a good cutter and learned how to have an impact on the game without the ball in my hands. My handle improved a lot and I was able to initiate the offense as a primary ball handler. More importantly I grew as a person during my time there.
You won the CBI title in 2023 beating EKU 71-68. What memories do you have of that great run?
That was a great memory during my time at Charlotte. Just to be able to finish the season on a win with a group of guys that had great relationships was something special and I’ll always remember.
You had many great games in these 4 years against FIU and Milwaukee just to name a few. What was your best game with Charlotte? Overall the game against Coppin state my Junior year was probably my best game.
What are your memories of ex teammate Igor Milicic who is balling in the G-League now?
Igor was a great teammate and is a great friend. I enjoyed my time playing with Igor and we are still close to this day. Yes Igor is playing in the G league now
You have a close relationship to the Milic family. How special is the family? Me and his younger brothers have a good relationship. It has been great seeing them grow and have success
You then added a season with Appalachian State University (NCAA) averaging 4.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.1apg. What kind of an experience was a fifth season there? How did head coach Dustin Kerns help you with that last push in your game? I was just thankful to be able to finish my college career playing alongside two of my high school teammates that are really good friends of mine, CJ Huntley and Will Coble.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jamil Muttlib? We never played a full game of 1 on 1 but I’ll add Jamil is a talented player and I know he had a great year this season at Grambling state and I’m super happy for him and know he’ll continue to do good things.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? My initial reaction I would say my toughest cover was Ryan Rollins.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? That’s a tough question as I’ve had a lot of great teammates but I’d say Aly Khalifa, CJ Huntley, Igor Milicic, Adam Brazil, Regin Larson (Not all the best players I’ve played with but these are the best TEAMMATES)
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan
Who is your Goat? Michael Jordan
How do you rate the historical 83 points from Bam Adebayo? I´m sure the very least would have ever thought Bam could do that? At any level 83 points is very impressive but to do it in the NBA, regardless of how, is extremely impressive. Also love that a guy from North Carolina was able to achieve that
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I haven’t seen either
If one looks at the rising basketball career of German Ivan Kharchenkov (201-F-2006) over the last few years, then one comes to the conclusion that he really has achieved a lot. He won 2 Gold medals at European youth championships, 2 pro titles in the easyCredit BBL with top sports brand FC Bayern Munich and an NBBL (U-19) title all before his 19th birthday. He could of remained with FC Bayern Munich and continued to fight for minutes and gain extra vital experience, but instead he went with the trend and played in the NCAA this past season with Arizona (NCAA). It was the logical route as so many Euro players were doing it as well as fellow German colleagues like Christian Anderson and Hannes Steinbach who are projected NBA first round pics in June 2026. He had the opportunity to play with a top basketball school, get an education and get paid millions. He helped win the Big 12 title and they came up a bit short losing in the NCAA final 4 against Michigan. All in all he made the right decision as his team had success and he was able to develop further with his Swiss army knife game. “I had no real expectations going to Arizona. Everything was new for me. I was living on a new continent and the game was different. I was thrown into cold water. My goal before the season was to get better each day and get minutes. I have to say that I was able to fullfill my expectations”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. As a guy who lives for the game and is always a competitor, he embraced the American lifestyle as it was like night and day compared to what he experienced in Germany in the easyCredit BBL. “What I appreciated right away about the lifestyle there was how much people are involved with the game and how emotional everyone is. It doesn´t matter who you talk to there, all have knowledge of the game. If your having a down period, the people always have energy and try to help you. No one is shy to showcase their emotions. In Munich it is more an event thing with some clapping. In Arizona it´s a big thing”, warned Ivan Kharchenkov.
Pic credit: ArizonaMBB
I reach Ivan Kharchenkov in early May for our 12th interview since the 2021-2022 season as he had returned back to Germany and was spending time with his family in Landsberg, Bavaria. In German basketball leagues, players arrive usually in mid August to prepare for the season starting in October, but in Arizona, Ivan was already there in July 2025 to start to prepare for the season starting in November. All Americans that come overseas for the first time always have a wake up call to living in Europe, but how was it for him coming from Germany to USA? “My wake up call was all the fast food that is present. It seems like it is around every corner. In Munich it is a lot easier to find healthy food. The eating standard is a lot higher in Europe”, said Ivan Kharchenkov. The team practiced for months before the season started and he was able to recognize early the differences between how NCAA teams practice in comparison to his ex team FC Bayern Munich. “The practices were a lot more physical, longer and more intensive than with Munich. We practiced between games while with Munich we didn´t. The practice standards were higher with Arizona, but one can´t forget that you have like 85 games in Europe and only 40 in the NCAA”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov. The team began hot winning 21 games in a row while the young German needed time to find his game. Did the team feel pressure with every new win in that winning streak? “It took time to get used to the new rules. It was strange having 2 20 minute halves, not taking transition fouls and players being able to call timeouts. I don’t think that pressure grew. We always went game by game. We had some shaky wins in that streak. We were still finding each other. We were lucky that we were good enough to still win games even when we didn´t play our best. That gave us the opportunity to learn from our mistakes”, remembered Ivan Kharchenkov.
Winning streaks never last forever as Arizona suffered their first loss of the season against Kansas. Then they were shocked right away in the next game losing again against Texas Tech. Arizona then wouldn´t lose again until April in the Final 4 against Michigan. The team definitely took the Texas Tech loss to heart and learned from it. “We had some guys out including Koa Peat. We were shocked and struggled. It was the perfect time to face adversary. Other guys had to step up and did. That showed us just how versatile we could be. That helped us in the long run and later beating Houston. We had a short rotation and were successful”, added Ivan Kharchenkov. He battled against German national team teammate Christian Anderson of Texas Tech finishing with a 13/4/3/2 game while Anderson had a 19/6/8 game. Anderson´s season was so good that his route to the NBA will follow now. “Anderson became a lot more consistent. He had a bigger role and made less mistakes. He got bigger physically and learned to read the game better as well”, commented Ivan Kharchenkov. After beating Houston for the Big 12 title, Arizona then had a great run at March madness beating LIU Brooklyn, Utah State, Arkansas and Purdue until losing to Michigan. “It was just one of those days where we didn´t play our best game. They hit three´s early and we got down fast and it was tough climbing back up the mountain. We lost to the eventual champion. It can happen. They shot only 2/18 in the final and still won. Life goes on”, added Ivan Kharchenkov. He had amazing teammates like Koa Peat who is a projected NBA first round pick in June. “He is a very physical player and built like a football player. He has a real nice touch around the rim. He really developed well during the season learning to expose the defense really well”, remembered Ivan Kharchenkov. Two other incredible teammates that he had were Brayden Burries and potential 2026 NBA draft pick Jaden Bradley who gave Arizona one of the best guard duo´s in the country. “Bradley was our veteran. He was the right hand of the coach. He had a lot of experience and led us the whole season and was great closing games. Burries didn´t start the season well, but never hung his head. He found his groove and was a great teammate and always did all he could to help the team win. He was our best player”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov.
Pic Credit:ArizonaMBB
The physical player who remembered Swede and current Stanford (NCAA) guard Julius Price as his toughest opponent back in 2022 had a solid freshman season in the NCAA averaging 10/4/2/1. Years ago he was the classic 3 and D player, but did his game grow into a Swiss army knife? “I was content with my season. I didn´t know my role at the start, but then it became clear. My role was to be the heart of the team, bring energy and be a vocal leader. Never be shy and defend the other team´s best player. I feel like I was always a Swiss army knife. I can do a lot of things and always give my team what it needs to win. I let the game come to me and didn´t force anything. I just try to play correct basketball”, warned Ivan Kharchenkov. His three pointer continues to be a work in progress. However he made big strides at Arizona as he finished at 32% from downtown in the season. “My role wasn´t so big for me to get many shots. I had the best season in my career with my shooting %. I feel a lot more sure with my shot. Now I have a long summer where I can continue to work on my shot and let it develop further”, expressed Ivan Kharchenkov. His excellent defense was lauded from the start by the Arizona experts and fans. He had to try to lock down the other team´s best players every night.” My defense grew having to defend top talents. I tried my best slowing down top players Aj Dybantsa of BYU and Darryn Peterson of Kansas. I think that I did a good job keeping them to 20 points on 25 shots. I was able to read the game well on the run”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. He was the first Arizona freshman to record 5 steals against a top 25 team Alabama. “That is a cool achievemen. In USA there are stats for all. But to be honest, I didn´t go into the game to record that record”, smiled Ivan Kharchenkov. He was fortunate to play for a coach in legend Tommy Lloyd who let him sparkle with his versatile play and also knows that the Wild Cats haven´t seen the best of him yet. “I learned from coach Tommy to let the game come to me and that my time will come”, warned Ivan Kharchekov.
The big guard with the killer instinct has announced that he will return for a second season to Arizona. His goal is to be drafted by the NBA. He wasn´t a frequent visitor on 2026 NBA Mock drafts as he had too many offensive options on the team. Next season his role will grow the same it did for Christian Anderson. But there are also other advantages for returning back to Tucson for a sophomore campaign. “I can continue to work on my game. I´m still a raw diamond. Plus I know how everything works now. It is also good to play for coach Tommy again. I know how he ticks”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov. Arizona will lose some guys, but should be competitive once again as they have kept Motiejus Krivas and have 3 very interesting guys coming in with ex Washington (NCAA) guard JJ Mandaquit, ex North Carolina (NCAA) guard Derek Dixon and highly touted Georgia high school player Caleb Holt. Bryce James the son of Lebron James also will play after being a red shirt last season. “The goal is always to win the NCAA title. The question is will it be realistic. We still need 2 big men”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. It was recently reported that raw Dutch center Endurance Aiyamenkhue of German team Orange Academy is one of those 2 centers that will suit up for Arizona next season. He won´t play for the German national team this summer as he remained in Germany in May and had his first camp in mid May with his half brother Nikita and dad. “I like to work with kids and give back to the community. This will be my first camp ever. I have heard that I could do this in the future as well in Tucson”, said Ivan Kharchenkov. He will head back to Arizona in June and then his focus will be on his game and Arizona. He will have a lot of time to remember big moments in the 2025-26 season on and off the court. “My favorite moment on the court last season was when Jaden Bradley hit a buzzer beater over Iowa State. I will never forget how we all jumped on him on the court. My coolest experience off the court was just how much a family we are. In Europe basketball is strictly business. In Arizona we spent so much time together as a team. We had incredible chemistry on and off the court. If I needed something, I could always go to the coach. I would never do that in Europe. I felt more comfortable in USA”, warned Ivan Kharchenkov.
Xavier Newson (194-SG-1995, college: Goshen) is a 30 year old 194cm guard from Illinois that is an overseas baller that recently played Dehesas Reunidas Climanavas Penarroya (Spain-Tercera FEB) averaging 15/4/1 stats.He began his basketball career at Richwoods High School and then played 2 seasons at North Central Missouri College (JUCO). He then added a season at Missouri Western State University (NCAA2) and at Goshen College (NAIA). He began his pro career in 2017 and since has played in countries like Kosovo, Georgia, and Spain. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Xavier for talking to germanhoops.com You have been overseas 8 years and played only in 3 countries with Kosovo, Georgia and Spain, but played for 10 different organizations. Would you call yourself a basketball globetrotter?
Hahaha that’s a good question! But I would have to say no. I mean I’ve played in less countries than a lot of my peers. 10 different teams sounds crazy though , hopefully soon I’ll be adding some new passport stamps.
You’re playing your fourth season in Spain. Has Spain become like a second home to you?
YES! It absolutely has. Spain is where I actually call home now. I met my now wife my first week in Spain in January of 2022 and basically I’ve been here ever since. Now I have a spanish son and was just granted naturalization so now I have a Spanish passport as well.
You have played the last 3 seasons in the fourth league in Spain. How would you describe the talent level and competitive level? I would say its pretty good. Ive played in higher leagues against guys that are now playing what everybody would call high level Europe for example, while I was in Kosovo or Georgia. But Spain has the best 4th division in Europe by far in my opinion. This league is broken into groups so each group has its levels but in general good basketball is being played for sure.
You have put up strong stats all seasons. How difficult is it in general to move up the ladder in Spain?
This is a touchy subject for me but yes I have performed and have had some team success as well. I’ve seen some guys get an opportunity and climb up. I just haven’t been one of those guys. Fair or not? Not a question I can answer. It is a tough pill for me to swallow because I feel like I’ve earned it for sure but everybody has their journey so I try to focus on that and keep pushing. I would say it’s difficult to move up but it happens every year for a few guys.
Your playing your first season with Dehesas Reunidas Climanavas Penarroya (Spain-Tercera FEB). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about this club? It’s been an up and down season to say the least but I’m living a dream playing in my Spanish hometown which I haven’t done since the 22-23 season. So having a chance to play at home and be present daily with my wife and son who is now 11 months old has been a blessing for sure. Having the family at the home games is great. I’ve enjoyed this part of it for sure. Something I’ll probably never have another chance to do. Also I surpassed 1000 points scored in the league in 58 games and 3000 in Europe overall so a few goals have been reached this season.
Last season you played with Lithium Iberia Sargado Caceres (Spain-Tercera FEB) averaging 17.2ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 75.9%. You had many great games there. Whatwas your favorite game of the season? For sure it would be towards the end of the season in a home game against Moraleja where I made 7 3s which is my career high for 3s made in a game professionally.
In the 2023-2024 season you played with CB Aridane (Spain-EBA) averaging 16.9ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 63.3%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 73.4%. This was your second season in Spain. How did your game grow that season? ALOT! In all aspects of the game. Sounds crazy but it’s the truth! This season in my eyes was my best season professionally so far. We beat Real Madrid B who had 2 now NBA players. And we were a first seed heading into the promotion phase. I owe all that growth to my coach at that time Eneko Mata who believed in me and also pushed me. We are still very close to this day. He knows how much I appreciate him.
You played your first season in Spain with Coto Cordoba (Spain-1 Div.). What memories do you have ofthat season in Spain? What challenges do you remember having on and off the court? Well my first season was really good. Personally I averaged 23 ppg and I want to say we won 7 out of the 10 games I played or something like that. The team at that time was trying to stay in the league and we achieved that goal and my teammates that first season are guys I still talk to often now. It was a super cool first experience here in Spain. I enjoyed it.
You played the 2021-2022 season with BC Iverioni Gori (Georgia-A League), played also at BC Telavi (Georgia-A League) averaging 19.7ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 64.9%, 3PT: 12.9%, FT: 58.8%. It was your las tseason in Georgia. How do you summarize your time in Georgia? How would you compare the talent level and competitive level to other leagues that you saw overseas?
Well like I said earlier in Georgia I played against former G league guys , guys that now have played in ABA league , BBL, Spain 2 , Winners league. I can go on hahaha so yes the level there was really good and a lot of guys are making good careers after playing there. In my eyes it’s a really competitive league. All 4 imports are usually killers. Personally I did well. Top 3 in points my first two seasons there. I held my own against a lot of guys that on paper were more talented or came from higher levels , d1 etc. I left Georgia with a lot of confidence in who I was as a player.
You played 1 season with Burji Telavi (Georgia-A League). What was your fondest memory playing with this club? This was the season right after covid so it was tough but for everybody playing in Europe at that time. With quarantine and all the covid tests we had to take. But I played this season alongside one of my best friends James Edmond so that made it special and we got through the ups and downs of the season together. We missed the playoffs by 1 game that season after going on a late run at the end.
You also played with State University of Sport (Georgia-A League) in 2020 averaging PPG-3 (20.8), 6.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 63.2%. Your stay was short. How tough was the whole Covid situation for you? What memories do you have of that short season?
Yeah so this was my first season in Georgia. I think we only played 6 games because of covid. I was playing really well being the only import on my team ,playing against 3 or 4 imports every game. But I also remember it like yesterday when Rudy Gobert did what he did and the NBA was shut down . We were shut down about 3 or 4 days later hahah it was crazy. Also a time I’ll never forget because I was on facetime with my cousin at the time when the news about Kobe passing away broke the internet. And I remember going to the practice the next day. Everything was so weird and things just felt so off for everybody. Crazy times !!
You played your rookie season overseas with KB Rahoveci (Kosovo-SuperLeague) averaging 14.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 58.7%, 3FGP: 20.0%, FT: 65.7%, in Feb.’18 moved to KB Kalaja Prizren (Kosovo-Liga e pare). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
Honestly I can’t say I had a rough adjustment to Europe because I didn’t. In the super league I played well being the import with the least minutes and decided to leave and help a team in the second league move up which we were able to do. And had a crazy celebration after. Moments I’ll never forget. I can say it was an adjustment for sure with the traveling calls like any rookie but Kosovo has some of the best food I’ve ever had in Europe. Very underrated food spot!
The next season you didn’t play overseas. Did you have issues about being overseas? What did you do that season?
I won’t go too deep into this but long story short after the promotion, I was told I would be brought back to play super league again. At the end of July I was told they weren’t bringing me back. I was caught off guard and didn’t talk to any agents or anything that summer so yeah. Lesson learned there!! That season I just worked a normal job at home and trained daily with my trainer at that time. Very tough year mentally but I became a better player that gap season for sure.
You’re 30 years old. What goals do you still have as a pro player? How tough is the grind and pay?
Well now that I’ll enter this summer’s market as a Bosman A player for the first time honestly. I don’t know what to expect. But my goal is to try to climb as high as I can moving around Europe not counting as an import anymore. It’s definitely been a grind but I love it! I love being an underdog and proving myself right more than trying to prove people wrong. The money at his stage of my career could for sure be better, but I feel like I’ve shown I’m not just playing for the money. I’m playing because I really love the game and the grind! Hopefully I’ll start recuperating some of my hard work back now with some new experiences and better salaries. but what’s clear is that im going to keep working how I work and we will see where it takes me. Im a real basketball junkie haha so my plan is to play until the wheels fall off
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 194cm shooting guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
Yeah so my game for sure is primarily generated by my ability to score but I also feel like when given the opportunity I can really make plays for my teammates. My favorite player is Kevin Durant and obviously I won’t say I play like him but I have definitely copied a lot and watched a ton of his film. If iIhad to compare my game i would say like a Dion Waiters who’s not in the league anymore or if you watch a lot of Euro League you’ve seen Talen Horton Tucker recently, I would say I’ m a less athletic THT for sure. Pretty much the same size, build and long arms.
You fill the stat sheet really well. Your shooting really stands out. What other strengths really stand out with your offensive game?
I definitely wouldn’t call myself a shooter. More of a shot maker, but my biggest strength is getting down hill to the rim. Also my post up game, taking advantage of smaller guards. Sometimes I even post up guys taller than me because I’m stronger or ill say pretty strong for a guard. I feel I can do everything offensively, and am a 3 level scorer.
Talk about your development as a scorer overseas. You scored the ball great in college. Where do you see the development of your game at the moment and where can you still bring it?
I would have to say I still have a lot of work to do. I feel like there are some areas I feel I’ve mastered but always trying to add little things. And obviously always trying to improve my 3 point percentage even though my percentage doesn’t always tell the true story of my shooting ability because I shoot a lot of tough 3s, late shot clock and step backs etc. In the most recent years I have definitely become a huge threat playing out of the low post.
How have you seen the development of your defense? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? Not only for me but for a lot of guys that are labeled ‘scorers’ our defense is immediately questioned. I wont say im the best defender but what I am is SUPER competitive. I don’t like being scored on. In Europe defense is a team thing and depends a lot on the team’s personnel but I believe I’m a guy that can guard 1-4 in a lot of leagues.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player? I’m always trying to improve my 3 point shooting. Can never get up too many reps. I’m a guy that locks in during the summer so really everything gets sharpened but definitely shooting because I’m put in those type of situations.
You played 2 seasons at North Central Missouri College (JUCO) and in your last season averaged 14.0ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 47.1%, FT: 66.2%. Every baller that I have interviewed has said that JUCO was a real grind, but an experience they wouldn’t have traded for the world. How was it for you?
Man for me for sure it’s the same. My guys from JUCO I still keep in touch with. We went through so much together in that small town of Trenton, Missouri. I can tell stories about my time there for hours on hours!
How valuable was head coach Jeremy Esry in your development in JUCO? How did he help your game the most?
Well actually coach E was the assistant coach during my two years. But he for sure was a part of my development. From the hard talks we had after my freshman year about my weight and coaches saying I needed to find a position on the court and become a guard. I achieved those things as a sophomore coming back and we had a good run.
You then played a season at Missouri Western State University (NCAA2) averaging 6.4ppg, 1.7rpg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 47.6%, FT: 75.0%. You made a good adjustment to the NCAA 2. How did your game grow there under Brett Weiberg?
My toughest year of my career no doubt. Things didn’t go as planned. I wasn’t used to how I was recruited. I still had some big games when given the opportunity and helped us win a few games as well. MIAA was and still is the best division 2 conference so great experience and played against a lot of Pros.
You had many great games like scoring 25 points in a win over Ft Hays State. What was your fondest moment there? Yes, that was my breakout game in front of our home crowd. I still go watch the youtube special on that game sometimes hahaha.
You then finished at Goshen College (NAIA) averaging 15.7ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 76.9%.You took a step back to play in the NAIA. Why did you make this move?
Like I said earlier, things at MoWest didn’t go how I expected. And at that time I knew I wanted to be a PRO after college so I wanted an opportunity to show my full game. Goshen gave me that opportunity again in the toughest NAIA conference there is, in Indiana the heart of basketball.
You had many great games at Goshen like hitting IU Kokomo for 25 points in a win. What was your fondest moment there? That was a good game for sure. I had a few explosive games at Goshen. But for me easily was beating St Francis at home when they were ranked number 1 in the country. I might have only had 16 or 17 points that game but it was a huge win.
How did coach Neal Young give you that last push and helped you be prepared for a pro career?
Honestly I cant think him enough for the freedom he gave me after having a rough year mentally at the d2.He truly believed in me and also challenged me in film sessions. He never treated me differently even though I was the big recruit brought in. Also he helped me form the relationship I have with ErrickMcCollum (goshen college alum) who is a big brother/mentor who i can always ask for advice and someone to follow as he’s still going at a high level.
Who won a 1-1 in practice, you or Dominique Cartier?
Hahaha ahhh man a-lot of battles with my guy Domo!! We handed out a lot of Ls to people in open runs across Indiana that year after the season. I must mention that! But I have to say I won the most between us for sure! It’s probably 15 wins to his 5 or somewhere around there if we count the days won.
Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA? I came up in high school at a time where Illinois basketball was full of talent and the AAU circuit was crazy, so i’ve played against a lot of NBA players and even now Euro League guys. Ill say the toughest for sure would have been Jabari Parker or Josh Jackson. I can also say Kendrick Nunn, Jahlil Okafor ,Alec Peters or Kevin Punter.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
This is tough! I don’t want to offend anybody haha so ill do 5 guys that played or are playing professionally now. PG: Herman Senor SG: Me of course SF: Evan Hinson PF: James Edmond C: Duane Clark
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?
Kobe , LeBron , Kevin Durant and Shaq
Who is your GOAT? I’ll say the GOAT is MJ for sure but my goat is KOBE. but KD is the most prolific scorer ever!
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?
No I didn’t see it, im more of a Netflix series guy. I can’t tell you the last time I went and saw a movie.
Jalen Harris (185-G-1999, college: CS Fullerton) is a 27 year old 185cm guard from Los Angeles, California played his second professional season and first with BC Nokia (Finland-1st Division B) averaging 31.1ppg, 6.9rpg, 5.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 77.7%. He played his rookie season with the Manchester Giants (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 6.8ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 62.5%. He began his basketball career at Windward High School and then played 2 seasons at Casper College (JUCO) averaging 5.7ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 41.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 74.6% and 16.2ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 73.7%. he then played 3 seasons at California State University, Fullerton (NCAA) averaging 5.2ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 35.7%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 71.4%, 9.3ppg, 1.0rpg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 81.0%, 12.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 39.8%, 3PT: 29.9%, FT: 73.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
You played your second pro season for BC Nokia (Finland-1st Division B). How tough was it not playing last season. Why did you sit out last season? Sitting out last season was definitely tough for me, and at times it was difficult to process – but it was necessary for me to gain perspective and be a more complete person without basketball. Sitting out definitely taught me some invaluable lessons that I am forever grateful for.
What kind of an experience was it playing in Finland? How would you describe the style of play and talent level in comparison to the BBL in England? Playing in Finland has been a great experience and could not have come at a better time. The style of play is similar to the BBL as they both emphasize freedom to make plays within the concepts of the team.
As a guy who hails from sunny California, how did you survive the cold winter in Finland? Did you see a lot of snow?
Being that I went to Juco for 2 years in Casper, Wyoming, the snow wasn´t a complete shock for me. It took some adjusting too but once I did I learned to appreciate it.
What have you learned to appreciate most about the culture in Finland? What was your nicest experience off the court? I have learned to appreciate Finland’s love for ice swimming and sauna. This was also great recovery for me so it fit right in with my lifestyle.
Your averaging 31/6/5 stats. One could call you the Russell Westbrook of Finland. How has your game grown this season? Shoutout to LA and NBA legend Russell Westbrook, that´s very high praise. I think my coach entrusted me with a lot of responsibility which forced me to grow and become a better player.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 185 cm point guard. If one had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description? I feel like because I´m a left handed guard, my player comparisons would have to be Jalen Brunson and Isaiah Thomas both of those guys are great left handed point guards who dominate the NBA level.
You fill the stat sheet really well. How big is versatility in your game at the moment? Has it always been there or suddenly come this season?
Versatility has always been an important aspect of my game. The more things you can do on the court, the better you are for the team. With this in mind I have always wanted to help my team in any way I could.
You shot at 40% twice in Juco and the NCAA. How would you describe the development of your shot? Your near 40% again this season? I would accredit to the countless hours of focused repetitions I put in since I was 10 years old. Once you get to a certain level shooting becomes much more about your focus and preparation more than anything mechanical.
Let´s talk about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you right now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?
I want to be a lockdown defender, and a defender that can guard multiple positions. Again that versatility is something that I feel would be valuable to any team.
On what areas of your game are you working on right now? Your averaging 4,0 turnovers per game. This is definitely somewhere where `I am working to improve my game, and that just comes with a heightened focus of taking care of the ball.
You played your rookie season with the Manchester Giants (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 6.8ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 62.5%. What was your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
I think my wake up call came as soon as I stepped foot off the plane in Manchester. I could tell the culture and way of living was different than what I was accustomed to.
How vital was it having a teammate like Jamell Anderson as a rookie? Was he like a mentor for you? Any time you have a veteran teammate from the area on your team that´s a good sign. I learned a lot through my experience being a teammate of Jamell’s whether that was in the locker room, on the court, or off the court.
You began your college career at Casper College (JUCO) averaging 5.7ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 41.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 74.6% and 16.2ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 73.7%. Every guy that I have interviewed in my career that played Juco have reported that Juco was very tough, but one of the best experiences for them. How was the 2 year Juco grind for you?
I would have the same sentiments of juco! It was so tough while going through it but also some of the best times of my life. I wouldn´t trade my juco experience for anything in the world as it shaped the player and man I am today.
You made a big jump at Casper in your last season there. How vital was head coach Shaun Gutting for your development? How did he help you make the jump to the NCAA? Coach Gutting was great for me in my second year at Casper, I was very comfortable with him being that he was my assistant my first year. I also want to acknowledge Coach Lester Stewart who came along my second year as well – he instilled a lot of confidence in me and we put a lot of sweat in together on the court.
You played 3 seasons and 71 games for California State University, Fullerton (NCAA) and improved your scoring average each season. What kind of a player did you become there?
I became a player who could adapt to any situation while at Fullerton. Each year my role was different and I had to adapt in order to help the team win games.
You had big games against UC Irvine, Pepperdine and Hawaii. What was your personal best game in the NCAA? I feel my personal best games at Fullerton came against Pepperdine in my final year. This was the first home game of the season and iIplayed well in front of family and friends.
You won the title against LBSU 72-71 scoring 10 points. What memories will you always have of that?
I actually wasn´t playing well for much of that game, I ended up turning it on in the second half. The play that will always stick out was me missing the layup and Ej Anosike getting a tip dunk over LBSU player, that changed the course of the game for us.
You then faced Duke in the first round of March madness losing 78-61 and had 10 points. What will you always remember playing against one of the best schools in the NCAA and Paulo Banchero?
Growing up Duke was always my team so it was a surreal experience when I heard they were our matchup in the first round. I will always remember checking in the game, and seeing Coach K walking towards me while arguing with the referees, I had seen it on tv so much but it felt different seeing it in person.
How did head coach Dedrique Taylor groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Coach Taylor was pivotal in my development at Fullerton and as a professional. As a professional our relationship is still strong as I go back to CSUF every summer and train with the guys. That´s huge because it shows that he truly cares about me even after i left his program.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Latrell Wrightsell?
Shoutout my guy Trelly, he just finished up a great season at Alabama post achilles injury. We had some intense battles in practice that made both of us better.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?
The toughest player has to be Paolo Banchero because of his size and athleticism. It is rare to see someone at his size play the way he does.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? I have had a many of great teammates through my time playing basketball, but my top 5 would have to be Ryse Williams, Dante Maddox, John Michael Square, Nick Stampley, Landis Spivey
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? My NBA Mouth Rushmore is Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Kyrie Irving, Stephen Curry
Who is your Goat? My goat is Kobe Bryant.
How do you rate the historical 83 points from Bam Adebayo? I´m sure the very least would have ever thought Bam could do that? I think it was a historical feat that very few can dream of accomplishing. Shoutout Bam
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? Yes I did see it, I feel like some movies don´t need a sequel but that´s okay.
DeLonnie Hunt (183-PG-2001, college: Richmond, agency: Players Group) is a 24 year old 183cm guard that played his rookie season with KK Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia-Premijer Liga) averaging (15.6ppg), 4.4rpg, Assists-4 (4.6apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 76.1%; and in the ENBL averaged (21.5ppg), 4.2rpg, 6.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 75.0%). He began his basketball career at Rock Creek Christian Academy and also played at DC Premier (DC) (UAA U17). He then played at Wagner College (NCAA) from 2020-2023 playing a total of 99 games. He then finished at the University of Richmond (NCAA) averaging 9.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 76.6% and 15.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.7apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 84.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.
Your playedyour rookie season overseas with KK Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia-Premijer Liga). What kind of an experience was it and what do you appreciate most about this great organization?
It was an amazing experience especially with being in another league the ENBL! Been able to travel across Croatia and other places across Europe. The competition has been very good as well! I appreciate the club accepting me and allowing me to be me! Also understanding I went through one of the most traumatic things a person can go through which is losing your mom and knowing sometimes that can affect my days and allowing me to go through my emotions with their support if I need it
As a guy coming from Maryland, what was it like living in Croatia? What have you enjoyed most about their culture? It has definitely been different just living in a whole different country but the one thing I have enjoyed is how passionate fans are when it comes to basketball!
What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
To be honest after my first flight when I got here was really my wake up Call, then noticing I’m 6hrs ahead of everyone at home added to that, sometimes I’ll be on the with my brothers and it would be dark here but light over there and that still kind of gets to me until this day!
Your had an incredible rookie season in Croatia and even better in the ENBL where you averaged 21ppg and 6,0apg. You never averaged more than 2.7apg in the NCAA. Did you always know that you had those special playmaking qualities in you? Yes sir, college rules are different in regards to what counts as an assist! Also my last couple of years in Richmond our big man was the leading assist guy because of how our offense was structured. Now that I am overseas I am back to playing where I have to create for myself and others and my teammates make my job a lot easier especially how well they shoot the ball when contested and uncontested!
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 have to say DeAaron Fox. Quick lefties that play strong at the rim and have found our shots as our careers have progressed. I feel like we were both a little reckless early on but as I’m getting older I’m learning when and how to use my explosiveness and take more midrange and 3s with confidence.
You have always filled the stat sheet well. Talk a little about your offensive game and it’s biggest strengths?
For a small guard I get to the rim and finish at a very high clip! I think that’s one of my strengths and the reason I’m able to do So is because I’m able to read the defense because I’m not so much worried about the guy that is guarding me. Drawing two and making the right read! Midrange is something I rely on when I can’t get all the way to the rim and being a pest on defense.
You were up and down as a three point shooter in the NCAA but shooting the ball well as a rookie. What can you credit most to your rise in your shooting percentages? To be honest, in my opinion I don’t think percentages tell the whole story sometimes, of course I can improve on 3pt shooting but a lot of times at Wagner I was shooting a lot of bad threes and ones at the end of the shot clock, same with my last year at Richmond! My first year at Richmond and first year at Wagner I shot close to 40% just by taking good ones and open shots. What I can credit most of the rise is just trusting myself when the defense dares me to shot and to the work I put in every summer/preseason and after practices.
Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you right now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?
I’m an aggressive defender that likes to pressure and make other guards feel uncomfortable, I think I’m also a smart defender that plays without fouling a lot and just forcing opponents to make tough shots over me! I think my steals are generated from being in the right spaces having fast hands rather than gambling a lot. I would just like to improve in those ways as a defender and post defense, one thing about when these guys see me matched up they try to go post and from what I believe I’m not growing anymore so I would just like to be more sturdy and hard to move/post up when those times come.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? Off the dribble 3s are something I’m working on most because I’m noticing that guys are kind of afraid of my speed so they live with me shooting 3s and I know I can knock them down I just want that to be at a high clip so my game can open up even more for me and my teammates.
You played at Wagner College (NCAA) from 2020-2023. How valuable were these 3 years in your basketball development under Bashir Mason and Donald Copeland? How did each coach help you most with your game? Yes both of them contributed to the tenacity I play defense with. I think them both trusting me as a young freshmen early to help lead a team in a strange COVID year was very helpful too. There’s a reason that even though I’m a rookie I’m comfortable playing with veterans and older guys because they threw me in the fire early in order to figure it out and I’ve been able to grow each year every since.
You had many great games there including against SFU and Delaware State. What was your fondest moment on the court there? My fondest moment would have to be my freshmen year I had a steal in the backcourt that led to two free throws which iced the game and gave us a regular season championship. My sophomore year there was a NBA logo dagger three that I made that sent the spiro sports center in an uproar that helped us reach the NEC final. My freshmen year we won 10 straight which was the longest streak in school history and the following year, when I was a sophomore when Arkansas beat Auburn we had the longest win streak in the country at 15
You then played 2 seasons at the University of Richmond (NCAA) averaging 9.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 76.6% and 15.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.7apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 84.3%. You made a big jump in your game in your last year under Chris Mooney. How did he give you that last push in your game?
Coach Mooney helped me realize how to be a point guard while not always having to control the ball! Cutting getting easy layups without wasting too much energy and just having a better read on the game. My first year I missed 10 games and came back in a crucial moment to where the team was starting to roll. Like I mentioned earlier I always had a capability to score but in those games when I first got back that wasn’t quite my job yet hence to why later in the year my scoring started to trend upwards. My second year those things he taught me really started to show and I had an even better understanding with a year of Richmond basketball under my belt. I also just think him allowing me to be reckless at times and trust that would work for me and others is another reason as to why I was able to have success in a Spiders uniform.
You had many great games there like against Marist and Ball State and against George Washington where you secured your team the 66-61 win with the last 6 points with free throws. What was your fondest moment on the court? Regular season championship having 18 to secure the 1 seed for the a10 tourney is definitely one. Beating VCU at Richmond in a sold out red out game at our place was a crazy environment/TV game. Beating Dayton who was -16th in the country at the time at our place in a white out game that was also a TV game and we had a 11 game win streak.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jordan King? We never played a 1 on 1 game just me and him but we’ve played king of the court a couple times with other teammates like Tyler Harris and Isiah Bigelow and it was hard for those games to finish because of how competitive everyone involved were! Love king I tell him I hate that we only had one season together and I missed 10 chances to play in the same backcourt as him! I believed we were the best backcourt in the A10 that year and were on the verge of proving that until I broke my wrist 4 games in.
Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Alex Morales, he was 2 time POTY on my team at Wagner, going bs him in practice everyday was definitely tough but really helped me in a long run! He’s currently on a two way with Orlando Magic! One of my best teammates I’ve ever went to battle withPlease name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Mannnn I love all my teammates I was a part of some really great teams to the point where I pretty much keep up with about 85% of the guys that I’ve hooped with in college. That Richmond team my first year was special to me and so was that Wagner team my freshmen year so go 5 is challenging man Boogie Ford & Jamier Fletcher (WAG), Djimon Bailey (RICH), Mikkel Tyne and Jason Roche (RICH
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? My favorite guys to watch not who I think is the greatest are Kobe, KD Steph Curry, Prime John Wall. Greatest: MJ/Bron/Kobe/KD Who is your GOAT? Kobe
What is your personal take on Bam Adebayo’s 83 points? How much respect does that performance deserve despite how it ended and all the foul shots? Definitely deserves some respect because 83 points is a lot of points in just not a fan because it happened vs my hometown team smh
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone? Yes I’ve seen the sequel ! I just think the sequel could’ve came a little earlier than it did rather than being an afterthought. Felt like it was random than actually planned to do.
Marley Jean-Louis (188-SG-1994) is a 32 year old 188cm guard that is playing his 14th professional season and third with DBV Charlottenburg (Regionalliga) where he averaged 21,9ppg,5,2rpg, 2,4apg and 1,2spg. He began his career in the Alba Berlin organization and then played for clubs like Munster, EN Baskets Schwelm, FC Schalke 04, EPG Baskets Koblenz, ScanPlus Baskets Elchingen, Rhein Stars,and BSW Sixers Sandersdorf. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Marley for talking to germanhoops.com. Let´s talk a bit about your game. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player would best fit the description? What would you say? It’s Mike James of course hahah. No but I think a fair comparison is probably Desmond Bane. Both big guards and great shooters playing with their own pace. Besides that I took a lot of Devin Bookers game and tried replicate it so that might work too.
You were always a player that filled the stat sheet well. However do you feel like you had that label too much of being a lethal scorer than anything else? No not really I think I can help the team and every way possible. But of course it’s nice that clubs or coaches appreciate parts of your game.
Your playing your third season for DBV Charlottenburg (Regionalliga) a team that has changed their name a few times the last years. Has this organization become like a second home for you?
I think what makes it special is that the club is in Berlin where I’m from and my family also lives there so that’s why it is something special to play for that club. Besides that I think the club has great potential and with the right focus, mindset and right decision it can be something special in German Basketball.
You’re an incredible three point shooter. How have you seen the development of your shot? It seems like your percentages have been at their best in the last few years?
One of the big reasons is the work I put in everyday and especially during the summers besides that it’s also so my mindset and my experience I gathered all over the years. I know who I am as a player and that really helps me believing in myself and my skills. I’m thankful that my coaches and teammates do that too´.
How would you describe your defensive game? How has it grown over the years?
I would describe it as physical. I use my strength to make it hard for the opponent to score. I would say at the beginning of my “professional” career I was more known of a defensive player and more of a 3&D guy. Over the years I developed my offensive game so now people might forget that I can still guard on a high level.
On what areas are you still working on now at age 32?
Everything. Especially my Athleticism and my body. I think I’m in the best shape of my life right now. Thanks to my Personal Trainer Eugen Bantschikow I have the chance to workout on a really high and professional level with him. Basketball wise I still work on everything basketball is always evolving, how to work out and new things you can do to get better. That´s why I love basketball there is always things to learn and watching the game.
This is your 9th organization in your career and you have moved around a lot in Germany. Could this be your final destination?
Except for one destination I’m happy to had the chance to see so many organizations and all the experience I made with them. If the dreams is going to be my final destination, I don’t know yet. But for now I’m happy to be part of the club. Let’s see how the negotiations are going this summer.
The team moved up to the Pro B in 2023. What was so special about that season´s team? It was a good combination of young and experienced guys. We had a great chemistry even though most of us such as myself joined the team a little bit later in the season. Everyone had the same goal in mind and luckily we achieved it.
You beat Stade in the finals and averaged 19.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 43.9%, FT: 74.4% that season. Scoring wise it was your best season as a pro. What was the secret to having such an increase in your scoring? I think a big reason was just being back in Berlin. Where I was feeling comfortable because I had my family and friends around me. The coach gave me a lot of freedom which helped me to get my confidence back. All these combined helped to get back to my real self
Was the playoff series loss the next season against Rhondorf one of your toughest loses as a professional. What was missing from getting over the hump?
To be honest no it wasn’t. It was a tough one and it might would’ve been the toughest loss if we would’ve been able to go to pro a but because that wasn’t a case I would rank other ones above It. I think it was just small things we had practice 2-3 times a week and didn’t have everybody at practice most of the time so we couldn’t find the rhythm we might’ve needed to pull out that win. But I still thinks as a team under these type of circumstances we performed really well and gave everything we had that season.
Last season you played with the BSW Sixers Sandersdorf (ProB) averaging 9.9ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 65.1%. This time you lost a tough series to the Miners. What was key this time for not getting over the hump in that playoff series?
Yeah unfortunately I didn’t perform as well as I wanted to this season. But the BSW Sixers will always be a special time for me. I think at the beginning of the season nobody thought we would go that far. But Lukas Vargas who in my opinion is definitely one of the best coaches in the league who would immediately make an positive impact to any organization did a great job with his assistant Magnus and made us a really good team with basically 7 new players joining the BSW Sixers. At the end again it was just small mistakes that made us lose the series. We had the chance in Essen to finish the series but missed shots and lost. At the Sixers dome I think we ran out of energy. I played poorly and we needed everybody to play good. That´s why it was a tough but fair loss.
You played a season with the RheinStars Koeln (ProB) averaging 5.6ppg, 2.2rpg, FGP: 38.5%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 80.0%. You came late and never found your grove. How tough was this season for you? Were there too many guys that needed the ball in their hands?
No I don’t think so. Cologne was just a tough year for me mentally. I signed with Elchingen in the beginning of the season but they went bankrupt a couple of days before the first game. Because it happened so sudden every other team had their roster already so I just went back to Berlin and started to practice with Berlin Braves. So for 3 months I had no real game rhythm. Then cologne gave me a chance in December and the team was already fighting to not to move down. I think I put to much pressure on myself that’s why I played a really bad season. They gave me enough chances but I couldn’t really use them. But again I really enjoyed my team in cologne that’s been probably the most professional team I ever played for with a great infrastructure plus the big gym that you can use 24/7 was a dream for a gym rat like me.
You played the 2020-2021 season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz (ProB) averaging 9.2ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 39.5%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 65.9%. Did you see success in the air for this organization? Only 2 years later they landed in the Pro A. You had some huge games early, but then couldn´t find consistency. What positives could you still get out of this season?
What I saw in Koblenz is that they invested a lot of money and forced their way into the Pro A no matter what. The only positive thing I could get out of my time in Koblenz that I had great teammates a physio and an assistant coach. I’m still in contact with some of them and especially CJ Oldham who was my roommate helped me a lot that season and these are what I´m grateful for during my time in Koblenz.
You played 1 Pro A season with FC Schalke 04 averaging 5.0ppg, 1.0rpg. You showed some moments of real success with your game. But still why don´t you think were you able to play more seasons in the Pro A? That’s a great question. I thought I proved myself that I definitely belong in the Pro a and had a good stretch while being a starter for Schalke. Unfortunately we didn’t had a good season as a team and because of corona the season got cut short. But if I would’ve had the chance to play Pro A after my season in Schalke and landed in a good situation I would’ve definitely had a good season.
You had 2 solid seasons with Pro B team EN Baskets Schwelm. How do you remember these years playing for head coach Falk Moeller? Do you feel like your game had all the freedom it needed?
Of course I remember these years. My goal was always to play as high as possible and Omar Rahim And Falk Moeller gave me the chance. I definitely enjoyed my 2 years there and I will always be thankful of the trust and faith Falk and Omar gave me. The fans and the community is one of the best ones in the league and I always enjoy coming back and playing there. I wish the club, Falk and Omar who now works for Leverkusen nothing but the best.
You also played 2 seasons with the WWU Baskets Muenster (Regionalliga) averaging 6.6ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 76.8% and 10.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 45.0%, FT: 64.3%%. How valuable were these 2 years playing for Gotz Rohdewald and Philip Kappenstein?
Muenster was my first team outside of Berlin I played that means it was also my first time living away from home. So I never played for Götz just for Phillip Kappenstein and man these years were one of the best 2 years in my life. The whole team plus Kappenstein and assistant Schnicks I consider them as family. We still arev in contact. I’m still in Münster every year to visit some teammates. These 2 years definitely had an impact in my life on and off the court. These years I wouldn’t trade them for nothing.
You began your basketball career with Alba Berlin. Did you have a mentor in those early years? I think I had many mentors during my career such as Courtney Belger, Anselm Hartmann, Andrej König, Jan König. Ron Mvouika. But when we just talk about Alba I would say Josip Peric was one in my NBBL years and Sebastian Fuelle and Steven Monse too. But Enrico Kufuor is probably the one If I could only choose one.
You were teammates with NBA player Moritz Wagner. He comes over as a very funny guy. What was your fondest moment with him on and off the court? I had some great moments with Moritz. What just stood out for me from the beginning was his competitiveness and his willingness to get better. Of the court he is the same person you see on TV a fun outgoing guy. So I definitely enjoyed his company on and off the court.
Who was the toughest player that you battled in the career that reached the NBA or Euroleague?
I played Dennis Schröder & Daniel Theis in my first NBBL game and they were a deadly combination back than already. Maodo Lo is definitely the toughest player to guard for me. I played him when he still was playing for central hoops and even now in the summers we workout together sometimes and it’s always a big challenge.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Let me give my top 8 Anselm Hartmann, Courtney Belger, Ron Mvouika, CJ Oldham, Aleks Dimitrijevic, Jakob Fischer, Josip Peric and Dallis Johnson
Please list your NBA and German Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time? NBA: LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson German: Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schröder, Detlef Schrempf, Ademola Okulaja
Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye (193-G-1996, college: Bradley) is a 29 year old 196cm guard that has the British/French citizenship and played his third season with UMFN Njardvik (Iceland-Subway League) averaging 24,2, 5,7rpg and 4,4apg. He also has experience having played in countries like Italy, France, Holland and Austria. He began his basketball career at the Bristol Flyers and then played at Bradley University (NCAA) and played a total of 129 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
You played your third season with UMFN Njardvik (Iceland-Subway League). Has Iceland become like a second home for you? Playing at Njarkvik has been really nice yes. We’re kept the main core for my time here for been nice with the familiarity and I get along really well with my teammates, coaching staff and those working within the club.
Has the beauty of Iceland also played a role in you being in Iceland 3 years now or is it more the basketball that has kept you?
A combination of the two. I think coming here being part of a team that believes in me and gives me confidence as well as the peacefulness of playing here. And also being a short flight away from back home in London.
The nature is amazing there. What has been your coolest experience off the court?
I think the coolest experience is seeing the northern lights. Sometimes I will come out of practice and look up in the sky and you see these lights just dancing in the sky. It’s pretty remarkable. The waterfalls and lagoons out here are pretty nice too.
You won titles in Holland and Austria, but so far nothing in Iceland. How tough have the last years been for you in terms of being that ultimate competitor? It’s been a little frustrating but I also know Rome wasn’t built in one day. When you win you want to keep winning, but we begin playoffs here in April so this will be when the fun part begins and I’ll have a chance to win another title.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? I’ve always tried to model my game after Dwyane Wade, but the current player right now in the NBA I would say is Jalen Brunson. We’re tough, physical guards that can get to the rim, score in the mid range as well as 3. Whilst also getting team mates involved and making winning plays. He has a little bit more point guard responsibilities as I play a little more off the ball and we play a similar style
You have become an explosive scorer in Iceland. Would you classify as a 3 level scorer? I would say I am a 3 level scorer, yes. I can get to the rim, score in the mid range as well as the 3. But it’s more about taking what the defense gives you. Taking your time, reading the defense and just trying to punish the different things they try to do to stop me.
You also fill the stat sheet really well. How valuable is versatility in your game? Like I said before I’ve played different roles as a professional so ultimately it’s just about being the best version of myself, and doing whatever to give us the best chance to win. Whether that’s score, rebound or find guys and I just try to do that to the best of my abilities.
Talk about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I’m a physical, tough defender. I can switch 1-4 and have a lot of versatility in whatever is needed from me.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
Just reading the game and keeping my reads simple is what I’m constantly working on the most. This helps me be consistent, become more efficient and cut down on turnovers.
You played the 2022-2023 season with Basket Swans Gmunden (Austria-BSL) averaging 11.4ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.2apg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 69.7%. You won an incredible 3 titles. What was so special about that team?
We just clicked from preseason. Everyone was committed to the goal of winning and we were able to all sacrifice parts of our game to make the team better. We got along on and off the court and I’m still in contact with a lot of the guys from the team today. Winning 3 titles there isn’t an easy task and our names will be in history there forever.
You split the 2021-2022 season with Old Wild West Udine (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 10.0ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.3apg, in Nov.’21 moved to Benacquista Assicurazioni Latina Basket (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 9.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 13.3%, FT: 72.7%v, in Feb.’22 signed at Heroes Den Bosch (Holland-DBL) averaging 5.2ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 29.2%, 3PT: 45.5%, FT: 67.6%; How tough was this season? You moved around a lot but in the end won a chip with Den Bosch. What did you learn about that season?
Moving around is never easy, especially in season. Learning new plays, new team mates, different coaching philosophies, new cities and environment. But it taught me to embrace new challenges and control the controllable. I realized that I was meant to finish that season at Den Bosch because I was able to provide things that the team was missing and I was able to do my part and have an impact in our playoff run ultimately winning it all in a do or die game 5 in the finals.
You played the 2020-2021 season with Union Poitiers Basket 86 (France-ProB) averaging 9.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 64.6%. You played in the Italian second division and also in France. How would you compare both leagues? Would you agree that the Italian second league is a tad better in skill level? I think both leagues are better than people would expect both being 2nd leagues. The Italian league because of the rules of just 2 foreigners per team. I believe the quality of the foreigners were better in Italy and it’s very physical whereas the French league would be more up and down and a lot more athletic. But overall I would say the skill level was about the same in both.
After playing at Bradley (NCAA) for 4 years you came back and played at Bergamo Basket (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 14.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 24.3%, FT: 82.4%. It was your first time in Europe playing outside the UK. What do you remember being your wake up call to being in Italy where you knew that you were far away from home? I think in the preseason when I realized, wait this is really my job. It was my first professional contract, everything was new. New teammates, new city. My coach used to only coach in Italian so the assistant used to translate for me and my American teammate. And just figuring it all out alone as I was beginning to live out my dream of being a professional basketball player.
You played at Bradley University (NCAA) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 129 games. How vital was getting this NCAA experience then? How did it help your game? Now there is a massive influx of players from Europe going the NCAA route.
It helped me transition from a boy to a man. It was always a dream of mine to play NCAA College basketball and to go straight to a good mid-major program like Bradley straight from the UK, allowed me the opportunity to just grow and develop on a daily basis preparing me to be the player I am today. Yeah nowadays with the whole NIL movement lots of European players are taking the NCAA route and I don’t blame them. ( I wish it was around when I played) But the experience of playing in historic college arenas, playing in hostile atmospheres and on ESPN is second to none and I think all young players should get to experience that at some point in their lifetime.
What will you always remember from the March madness experience in 2019? You played against Michigan State and scored 14 points, but lost. What will you always remember from that game? I just remember how loud the roar was from the crowd of 15,000 people when we came out during player announcements. When I looked out to the crowd I just saw a sea of red from our fans in full support and then you also have Reggie Miller and Kevin Harlan calling my game. It was kind of like I was living in a dream. It was my senior year so I knew this was my final go around and I had to make the game count and felt like we were destined to go on a Cinderella run but we came up just short in the end to a good Michigan State team.
How did head coach Brian Wardle prepare you best for a professional career?
Wardle’s a tough, demanding coach but he knows what he’s talking about and what he’s doing. He made sure everyday I was able to be comfortable being uncomfortable. That I could handle adversity and ultimately overcome it. But also let me know the ins & outs of what it is to be not just a professional but a good professional. My 4 years under him developed me to the point when I left, I knew I was ready.
Who won a 1-1 in practice back in the day you or JoJo Mcglaston?
Me, every time. I’m a competitor, I hate losing and I was always able to get into his head and find a way to win.
Before going to Bradley you spent some years with the Bristol Academy Flyers (BBL). How vital were these years and did you have a special mentor at that time?
My time at Bristol was my first experience living away from home and playing Men’s basketball. It was a massive change for me at 16 years and forced a lot of growing up quickly. But it was what I believe to have been the first major step I took in chasing my dream to become a professional basketball player. My special mentor during that time who I’m lucky to still have in my life today as a mentor and a friend would be my coach Andreas Kapoulas. He played a big part in me going to Bristol as well as giving me an opportunity to show what I could do against the best players in the best league we had in the UK. And just helping me everyday grow into the best player and best man that I could be.
You have had much experience with the UK youth national teams and men´s teams. What was your coolest experience so far wearing the British jersey? I would say the coolest experience would be going to Eurobasket in 2022 with the senior Men’s. Getting to represent your country in a major European tournament playing against a bunch of NBA/Euroleague players in such a competitive environment where everyone wants to win.
Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA?
I would say Malcolm Brogdon, We played against him and Virginia my freshman year at the ESPN Charleson Classic. He was a senior at the time and I realized I had a long way to go to be one of the top players in the NCAA ranks. He entered the draft at the end of the season and I think he ended up at the Bucks winning rookie of the year too.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Best 5 teammates of all time, Myles Hesson, Gabe Olaseni, Trevor Lacey, Jeffery Carroll, Akwasi Yeboah
Please list your NBA and UK Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time? NBA Mount Rushmore – Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Magic Johnson UK Mount Rushmore – Luol Deng, Pops Mensah-Bonsu, Myles Hesson, Steve Bucknell
Who is your GOAT? Dwyane Wade
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
Yes I watched, sequels are never as good as the original but Coming to America 2 wasn’t that bad so I’m not mad at it. Just not as good as the original.
Aytor Alberto (188-G-2000, college: Cairn) is a 25 year old 188cm guard that grew up in Curacao that played his second pro season for Snaefell (Iceland-Division I) averaging 20/3/2 stats. He split his rookie season between Breidablik Kopavogur (Iceland-Division 1) averaging 18.0ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.7apg, 2FGP: 39.2%, 3FGP: 39.0%, FT: 80.3%, in Jan.’25 moved to Kufstein Towers (Austria-2.Bundesliga) averaging 11.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 64.0%. He received early basketball experience at Victory Rock Preparatory School in Florida and then played a season at Clark Summit University (NCAA3). He then balled 3 years at Cairn University (NCAA3) and had his breakout season in his last season averaging : 21.3ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 42.8%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 77.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball
Your 25 years old and have the Dutch citizenship and played many years in USA, played in Austria last season and this season in Iceland. How blessed do you feel to be able to be a professional player? I am actually from the Caribbean island called Curacao. I have a Dutch passport due to Holland being a governing body of Curacao. Never lived or been in Holland excluding connection flights. And to answer the question, I feel very blessed to be a professional basketball player and travelling the world and experiencing new countries like Iceland, Austria, and also China last summer. I never take any of it for granted. All of this wouldn’t be possible without my unwavering faith in God.
With everything that you have experienced so far in your young life, what has been the coolest experience for you off the court?
It would have to be last summer when I went to China to play in the Wild ball league over there. Just the fact that I never thought I would’ve gone to Asia, and to see how basketball took me over there and see the difference of culture and way of living was phenomenal. It’s like a different world out there.
Let’s talk a little about your game. You’re a 188cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description? Pretty much everybody gives me the Ja Morant or Russell Westbrook comparison from the NBA. After starting to play in Europe and watching a lot of Euroleague 2 years ago, I see a lot of Matthew Strazel and Sylvain Francisco in my game.
You’re a guy that fills the stat sheet well. Talk a little about your offensive strengths? Your attacking the rim really stands out.
Yes, I feel like my ability to break down defenses from the perimeter and get paint touches have translated at every level that I played at so far in my career. I think that’s because I am very athletic and know how to change pace well. My ability to make floaters in the paint at a highly efficient rate is also a strength of mine, which is a counter whenever teams try to take away my 3 ball and also me getting all the way to the rim.
You really have scored the ball well the last 3 years. The first few years at Cairn, you couldn’t show that. Are you a 3 level scorer yet or still working on that? I am definitely a 3-level scorer, but I am still working on refining my game to keep making it more polished and efficient as possible as I continue to climb levels.
You also have been a solid 3 point shooter the last few years. Do you see yourself eclipsing the 40% barrier in the future? That’s definitely a goal of mine and I think with my work ethic I will eventually eclipse that barrier in the future Lord willingly. Last season in Iceland playing for Breidablik I shot 39% so I know it is for sure possible.
What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become? In terms of on-ball defense I feel like I can stay in front and pressure anybody at this point along with my athletic ability allowing me to get chase down blocks. I consider myself very elite at on-ball defense. I think my area of improvement is more so off-ball rotations which I tend to fall asleep sometimes when I get tired during games.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player? My biggest focus is making my 3 point shot as elite as possible and also to continue to watch a lot of film to improve my decision making as a playmaker.
Your playing your first season with Snaefell (Iceland-Division I). What kind of an experience has it been? How has your game progressed? To be honest it has been very frustrating just because I am very competitive and I hate losing. I have not experienced this much losing in a while so that’s what stresses me out the most. I also was battling UCL strain in my right elbow which is on my shooting arm that I sustained back in November. It is now pretty much healed but early on after the injury I started to struggle shooting the 3 ball because I had to temporarily tweak the way I shot because of the injury, but thankfully I am not dealing with that anymore and this is the best my body has felt in a while.
What has it been like being teammates with Jakorie Smith? How do you guys compliment each other best? Me and Jakorie compliment each other very well. My game is based on attacking and his is on jump shooting, so he is able to space the floor very well whenever I’m attacking.
Iceland is a dream. What have you enjoyed besides the swimming pool culture? What have you discovered while exploring the nature there? I love seeing the northern lights. It’s an experience I honestly will never get tired of.
Last season you split time with Breidablik Kopavogur (Iceland-Division 1) averaging 18.0ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.7apg, 2FGP: 39.2%, 3FGP: 39.0%, FT: 80.3%, in Jan.’25 moved to Kufstein Towers (Austria-2.Bundesliga) averaging 11.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 64.0%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? I think my wake up call came the first day I landed in Iceland and I was dropped off at my apartment by my coach. I think it was because that was my first time ever being in Europe so it hit me hard.
In Austria you lost a tough 3 game playoff series to the Mustangs where the team scored only 41 points in game 3. What did you learn from that series? I learned how hard it is to win a championship at any level. Playing in Austria and also specifically in that series I learned how tactical and strategic basketball can be. That whole series felt like we were playing chess rather than checkers as the saying goes.
Before playing in the States, you trained and lived in Curacao. I guess that was like paradise living in the Caribbean. How vital was this special experience for your game and person? It was definitely a good experience especially off the court. I think for my game it helped me develop all areas of my game since the playing style over there is very free flowing so I was able to have a lot of freedom early to figure out what my game is, and ultimately expand on that as my career progressed.
You began your college career in USA at Clark Summit University (NCAA3) averaging 6.4ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 79.2% in your last season. How vital was this first NCAA season under Brian Deschaine? What could your game gain from this season? I think my fit at Clarks Summit University was not a good fit all honestly, which is why I ended up transferring from there.
You then moved to Cairn University (NCAA3) in 2021. How tough were the first 2 years there where you averaged 11 minutes your first season and in your second season your minutes dipped to 7. What kind of a player did you become mentally in those 2 years? Mentally I was always the same confident player, it was more so me just dealing with injuries those first two years at Cairn that a lot of people from the outside looking in did not know of. I had broken my right foot in a pre season game in my first year at Cairn which caused me to miss most of the season, and I was dealing with an inflamed patella the following year which never really allowed me to fully be on the court and do what I do. Mentally I stayed confident just because I knew what I can do and I knew the circumstances then was not because of my skills or ability.
You had many great games at Cairn like hitting Gwynedd Mercy for 34 points and also Notre Dame (MD) for 29 points and the University of the Valley Forge for 28 points. What was your fondest moment as a senior there on the court? 3 moments that come to mind immediately that I consider my fondest were when the month of January where I averaged somewhere close to 30 ppg while winning games, receiving national attention after the season becoming a D3data All-star which I was considered one of the best D3 players in nation, and also scoring 23 points against University of Maryland-Eastern Shore, which solidified to me that I could compete at all levels.
How did head coach Jason Connell groom and prepare you best for a professional career? He taught me the importance of being a professional in all areas of life, not just the basketball court. His championship pedigree taught me that whatever I want to achieve in life requires discipline, hard work, and an unwavering faith in God.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Josh Forker? I did. Josh Forker was an exceptional defender, probably one of the best in Cairn history, but even he would tell you that nobody could stop me one on one. This also contributed to my confidence heading into real games, because if the best defender in our conference struggles to guard me (which he was considered as at the time), then I have nothing to worry about.
Who was the best player that you ever battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Nobody I ever played in the NCAA reached the NBA, but I have faced Scottie Barnes back in high school who currently plays for the Toronto Raptors.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? In no particular order I would say Niven Hart, Jamal Mccoy, Jonathan Mulmore, Derian Bradford, and Jakorie Smith.
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time for you?
My NBA Mount Rushmore is Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry. Who is your GOAT? My GOAT is Michael Jordan.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone? I actually have not seen the classic Coming To America or the sequel.
German basketball continues to grow in international competition and has really taken off in the last 4 years. Germany under the guidance of Gordon Herbert won the World Cup and a Bronze at the 2022 European Championships and in 2025 won the Gold at the Euro championships and notched a fourth place at the Olympics in 2024. The current count of Germans in the NBA is at an all-time high at 7. That count should rise this summer when Christian Anderson, Hannes Steinbach and Jack Kayil get drafted. The youth movement in Germany also continues to grow as not only winning medals has become normal, but Gold and Silver medals as the U-18 team won the 2024 Euro championships and in 2025 won the Silver at the World Cup. But that incredible talent pool isn’t only in Germany, but also outside. In the last years guys with German roots that grew up in USA have played for the youth national teams in Germany with Sam Griesel who won a Bronze at the 2020 Euro championships, the Anderson brothers led by Christian has won 5 medals for Germany including a Gold at the 2024 Euro and a silver at the 2025 World cup, brother Lucai Anderson and Georgia native Will Dopfer won the Gold at the 2026 AST tournament together. Now there might be that next great prospect with DJ Hines who might be able to play for Germany one day. He is a young man who has a big dream and role model in Christian Anderson in which he would like to follow in his foot steps. ‘It is a dream playing the game I love in a place I want to be in is something I think about every day. I truly want to play over there so bad. I want to go play whenever I can. It doesn’t matter about the money or anything, but the environment and the love of the game. I would love to play in Germany. Christian Anderson is a dog hands down. I think he is more of something I want to be like. He shows me it’s possible and you got to just hoop and want it. I mean I wish I could ask him questions, but I watch his games when I can and see how he does’, stressed DJ Hines.
DJ Hines who lists Anthony Black , Bones Hyland and Cason Wallace as his current favorite NBA guards was born on September 8th, 2008. His dad is American while his mother is German/American. His mom has German relatives near the cities of Hanau and Kassel. He fell in love with basketball at age 8 and was always supported by his family who loved the game as much as he did. ‘Basketball was always there for me. It didn’t matter what happened, that’s really why I love the game. It was an escape from my reality’, stressed DJ Hines. He grew up watching the Orlando Magic and is a fan of the team. ‘I loved watching Victor Oladipo back when he was with us. I also enjoyed Aaron Gordon. I got to meet both of these players and they only gave me great advice and good motivation’, said DJ Hines. He got some of his earliest basketball experience at Oviedo and it was a time that he will never forget. ‘My freshman year I had some of my best moments in my life. I made friends I will never forget. I had a good group of young guys around me. However one senior took me under his wing named Alex Harper. He played Juco and now holds d1 offers and is waiting to commit. He taught me the ropes of varsity basketball’, remembered DJ Hines. He then moved to the Masters Academy where he is now on the Varsity team and continues to grow as a player. ‘My sophomore year, I had a job to take open 3s and play their best player 94 feet. I wasn’t used to it, but I learned a lot and it humbled me. We went all the way to the regional championship losing, but we did only lose 9 games and now hold the best record in school history. This past year I played as a junior I had the role I was used to being the main option scoring and playing defense. We weren’t as successful but I did get all first team in my conference and I was player of the year runner up’, remembered DJ Hines. He also continued to stay faithful to Oviedo where he gets extra experience playing AAU ball as it is different than high school ball. ‘AAU is one of the best basketball moments I have had. I think the competition I play is great. Games are always close chippy and fun I think it helps me mentally getting tougher understanding playing so much your bond to play bad and I learned it’s not about your past but it’s how you approach the next play next game you have to keep pushing to get where you want to be’, commented DJ Hines. Next season will be his senior year and currently he is playing summer league for Hagerty high school.
The Florida native who lists Lebron, Jordan, Shaq and Kobe on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is 185cm and plays like a more athletic Tyrese Haliburton or Bones Hyland and models his defensive game after Anthony Black. He is a combo guard and doesn’t have a preference to playing the point or the position 2. ‘I can do both I have been told I am a better point guard. However I truly don’t care what I play as long as I am playing and winning. If I got to pick I would want to be more of a shooting guard’, stated DJ Hines. At first glance at game footage from him, it is his shooting that really stands out, but he has more assets than just that. ‘Offensively I do have a good percentage but I enjoy shooting so I shoot. However I learned from the past few months to get to the rim easier and more efficient, I also have been able to get my teammates involved’, added DJ Hines. As a teenager, his shot is still in the development phase, but he knows that staying extra in the lab will continue to help his shooting grow. ‘I think I am learning how to shoot properly. I think I was just throwing the ball at the rim and praying, but I work on my shot very often and my coach at school helps me on it as well shooting has taught me the smallest things have the biggest impact’, warned DJ Hines. It is often that kids love offense and defense takes a back seat, but he has learned already how valuable it is playing defense now. ‘I love defense as of right now I am a great on ball defender and play the passing lanes even better. I do want to improve my paint defense, but that comes with strength and time which I am working on in my off season. I want to be a great all around defender’, said DJ Hines. He also understands that in order to get better as he prepares to play college soon he will have to gain weight and get stronger. ‘If I can do that than I will keep getting to the rim and my spots effortlessly. If I do this, I think it will take my game to the next level’, stressed DJ Hines.
The guard who names Caleb Penny Feather and Andrew Thelwell as his toughest foes so far on the court biggest dream is to one day play for Germany. He has obviously taken a special interest to German basketball on account of his roots. ‘ I have seen German basketball in person and I played against some great players. What I learned is the pace is very different. It’s very slow and controlled over there while over here we run and gun a lot, but I think the game is more physical over there because of that, but I love watching and playing good basketball and I think Germany has this’, expressed DJ Hines. He already has had a first close connection to German basketball as he was able to practice with the Alba Berlin NBBL (U-19) team in Florida. ‘I learned a lot in just an hour and a half. The biggest thing I noticed was how serious everyone was. They loved basketball, but they treated it like a job. There was time to joke around, but once practice started, it was all business. I thought I did okay, but I know I could have shown more of my game. I’m at my best when I’m playing fast, scoring, and making efficient decisions. The experience also showed me some areas where I can improve, especially getting stronger physically and playing more under control. Competing against high-level players helped me see what I need to work on, and it motivated me to keep getting better every day’, warned DJ Hines. Was he able to adapt his game to the Euro style in that short period of time? ‘Definitely my change in pace and keeping it simple, but effective I think they taught me just go no need for anything extra and just use your body and GO’, said DJ Hines. A few months after his practice session some guys won the well known Albert Schweitzer tournament and a month later the team won the 2026 NBBL title. Did some guys stick out to him? ‘I remember a lot of them but 2 stood out to me with Matheo Hermann and Finn Borczanowski. Mateo was a good leader very confident and talented. Finn was just a bucket. He could go I don’t say that about a lot of people but he could hoop. I don’t remember most of their names but those 2, I can’t forget’, added DJ Hines. The respect is mutual. ‘I remember DJ as having a lot of ambition and character and he was a really nice guy’, stressed 2026 NBBL champion Matheo Hermann. But it wasn’t only the Alba Berlin players that stood out, but also head coach Marius Huth. ‘I liked him. I thought he was a good person which is always a good start and he was honest and wanted his team to be a team. He was fundamental and respected which is rare to fine but I really like him as a coach’, stated DJ Hines. Once again the respect is mutual. ‘DJ was a very smart player that has a great basketball foundation and a good shot. He was able to get integrated to our training group quickly’, remembered 2026 NBBL champion Marius Huth. It will be interesting to see how the next years continue for DJ Hines. Unfortunately there wasn’t anymore contact between family Hines and Alba Berlin since the practice session in Florida in January 2026. DJ Hines is a young prospect that could enrich the German youth national teams if given a chance.
German Hoops 