Ronald Howard (181-PG-1984, college: Mayville St.) is an ex player that spent many years overseas and since retiring has focused his energy on helping unknown players get exposure by organizing games and in many cases helping them find professional jobs. He founded Howard Hoops in 2013 where he brought numerous players overseas to help them find jobs and since 2018 has started the Howard Hoops academy where he helps train unknown players and help find basketball jobs. He started Revizion Sports International which helps players get placed on professional clubs. He organized the RSI Las Vegas Overseas Combine in July 2026 and spoke to germanhoops.com about that experience.

Thanks Ron for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment?

Thanks for having me back. I’m currently home in Minnesota after an incredible summer in Las Vegas, where we hosted our RSI Overseas Combine during NBA Summer League. Since returning, my days have been filled with evaluating players, speaking with clubs, agents, and general managers throughout Europe, and preparing for what I’m really excited about nextour Howard Hoops International Pro Exposure Tour in Germany and Belgium from August 26–31. We’ll be taking a select group of players overseas to compete against professional clubs, train with European teams, and build relationships that can lead to professional contracts. I truly believe it’s one of the best opportunities we’ve ever offered for players looking to begin their careers in Europe, especially in Germany.

Our last interview was 7 months ago. Then you told me you were coaching your eldest daughter’s AAU team. Plus you have so much other things in your life concerning basketball. When do you believe did you become infected with basketball?

Honestly, basketball has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up, it was more than just a sportit became my purpose. As a player, it gave me opportunities I never imagined. Now, as a coach, trainer, scout, and mentor, I get that same excitement helping someone else chase their dream. The game has simply evolved for me from playing professionally to serving others through basketball.

You coached in Ireland some years ago and continue to let Hoopspot thrive. What kind of further development have you seen with it in the last 7 months including the influx of guys overseas taking the NIL advantage?

The basketball landscape has changed dramatically. NIL has created more opportunities for college athletes, but it has also made the overseas market more competitive. Many players are staying in college longer, while others are entering the professional market with more experience. Howard Hoops has continued to grow because we’ve built genuine relationships throughout Europe. We focus on finding the right fit for players rather than simply placing them anywhere. Clubs appreciate honesty and professionalism, and players appreciate having someone who is truly advocating for them.

How does a former hooper now see the whole NIL development? Does it make a guy jealous how guys now earn money playing college hoops?

Not at all. I’m genuinely happy for today’s athletes. Every generation has different opportunities. We didn’t have NIL, but we had our own journey that shaped us. My focus now is helping players maximize every opportunity available to them while making smart decisions that will benefit them long after basketball.

How do you see the whole NIL saga continue to develop in the next years? Do you see the money continuing to climb?

I think NIL will continue evolving and become more structured over time. The money at the highest levels will likely continue to increase, but I also believe there will be more regulations to create balance between college athletics, education, and player development.

You told me in the last interview that you planned to host another combine in Germany in January 2026. Did that take place and how was it?

Plans shifted, which is common in international basketball, but during that time we strengthened relationships with clubs throughout Germany and neighboring countries. Now all of that work has led to something I’m extremely excited about. From August 26–31, Howard Hoops will host our International Pro Exposure Tour in Germany and Belgium. Players will compete against professional clubs, train with European teams, and have direct exposure to coaches and decision-makers. I believe it’s one of the best opportunities we’ve ever created for players looking to earn their first professional contract in Europe.

You recently held the RSI Las Vegas Overseas Combine. How cool was that being held in Las Vegas? What was your summary of it?

Las Vegas is one of the best basketball environments in the world during the summer. The level of competition was outstanding, and our players competed against talented athletes from around the world. More importantly, we created meaningful exposure. We connected with coaches, agents, and general managers while providing every player with honest evaluations and valuable networking opportunities. Overall, it was a very successful event.

It was during the NBA Summer League. Was there a special reason why it was held then?

Absolutely. Basketball decision-makers from all over the world are already in Las Vegas during NBA Summer League. It creates an incredible networking environment. Even if someone isn’t specifically attending our event, they’re already in the city, making it much easier to build relationships and introduce players to the right people.

You have hosted so many of these combines in the last decade. Does it ever get old?

Never. Every event is different because every player has a different story. Watching someone earn an opportunity they’ve worked years for never gets old. That’s what continues to motivate me.

What was your personal highlight of the Combine in Las Vegas?

For me, it wasn’t just one game or one player. It was watching players grow throughout the week, seeing them compete at a high level, and building stronger relationships with clubs throughout Europe. Every connection we make creates more opportunities for players in the future.

One of my favorite parts of the interviews is asking the guys their opinions about you. Every answer is always so positive. Is this the ultimate satisfaction and drive to continue to grind and help these guys move forward as players and men?

It truly is. Comments like that mean more to me than any championship or personal accomplishment because they remind me that this is about much more than basketball. I genuinely care about developing people first and players second. Basketball eventually ends, but the relationships and the impact you make on someone’s life can last forever. This year has also been especially emotional for me because I recently lost my father. He was one of my biggest supporters and someone who believed in everything I was building with Howard Hoops. One of the greatest memories I’ll always cherish is that he was able to attend one of our Howard Hoops international exposure events in Europe and experience it firsthand. To see him watching players chase their dreams overseas and witness the vision come to life is something I’ll never forget. That memory gives me even more motivation to continue building opportunities for players. Every player I help earn a contract or take a step closer to their dream is another reminder of why I continue doing this. It’s about opening doors, building relationships, and leaving a positive impact that extends far beyond basketball.

There were many really talented guys at the combine. Which player made the biggest impact on you concerning the whole package?

There were several players who impressed me, and I don’t like singling out just one because everyone brought something different. Some stood out because of their athleticism, others because of their leadership, toughness, or coachability. Ultimately, the players who consistently competed, communicated, and accepted coaching made the biggest impression.

Have you gotten any tryouts or even gigs lined up for guys that took place?

Yes. We’ve already had positive conversations with several clubs throughout Europe. Some players are currently being evaluated by teams, while others are being considered for preseason opportunities and training camp invitations. The goal has always been to create real opportunities that continue long after the combine ends.

What are next steps for you coming up? Any new projects or gigs lined up in 2026?

The immediate focus is our Howard Hoops International Pro Exposure Tour in Germany and Belgium from August 26–31. We’ll be taking a select group of players overseas to compete against professional clubs, train with teams, and build relationships that can lead directly to professional contracts. I believe this will be one of the best opportunities we’ve offered for players looking to begin their careers in Europe, particularly in Germany. Beyond that, my goal is to continue expanding Howard Hoops throughout Europe by strengthening relationships with clubs, coaches, agents, and general managers while creating even more pathways for players to earn professional opportunities. On a personal level, this year has reminded me how precious life is. After recently losing my father, I’ve gained an even greater appreciation for making every opportunity count. He believed in what I was building from the very beginning, and one of the greatest blessings of my life was having him attend one of our Howard Hoops international exposure events in Europe and see our vision come to life firsthand. I’ll carry that memory with me forever. As I move forward, I want to continue honoring his legacy by helping as many players as I can achieve their dream of playing professional basketball. That’s what drives me every day, and I truly believe the best is still ahead for Howard Hoops.

Did you have the New York Knicks on your radar winning the NBA title? Was it a little surprise and how scary will the Spurs be in the next years?

The Knicks had a tremendous season and earned it. They built a tough, disciplined identity and played together all year. As for San Antonio, they have one of the brightest futures in the NBA. With Victor Wembanyama leading the way and the organization continuing to build around him, they’re going to be a serious contender for years to come.

Did you follow any of the football World Cup in the States? Or is football not so your cup of tea?

I followed it a little. Basketball will always be my first love, but I have tremendous respect for what football does around the world. It’s amazing to see how sports can bring people from different countries and cultures together. Events like the World Cup remind us of the power sports have to unite people, and that’s something I really appreciate.

Thanks Ron for the chat.

The preseason is always the first opportunity to view new players that come into the various leagues in Germany, Recently I was in Koblenz and observed a game between the EPG Baskets Koblenz and ex easyCredit BBL team Giessen 46ers. I could easily bet from the 8-10 Americans battling on the court that featured rookies and guys overseas for a few years, there would be a handful that have chips on their shoulders. There were guys on both teams that had had that ultimate Juco experience where they played in the fifth division and at that time the prospects of coming overseas then was as unrealistic it is now from proclaiming that Lonzo Ball will ever win a NBA scoring title. Of course, many guys make the next step from JUCO to the NCAA 2 or NCAA and then come overseas as both teams had those players. The talent on the court that day was immense, but one guy that really stood out for me was American Nigel Scantlebury (183-PG-2000, college: CCSU) of the Giessen 46ers. He had toiled in JUCO for a few years and then played at a lesser known basketball school and played his first 3 seasons overseas in lower leagues. He continues to grind moving up that basketball ladder and this season is ready to make the next step in Germany with Pro A team Giessen 46ers. “I feel like I had a chip on my shoulder since I was a kid. Grew up in environments where you had to be tough and you had to prove yourself. Having to go JUCO made the chip even bigger because I wasn’t heavily recruited in high school but the chip on my shoulder has helped me navigate through my career because I have a lot of confidence in my abilities I genuinely believe even now, I have not even scratched the surface on how good I can be. I believe I can play at the highest level I know the work I put in, and I believe in the tools God has given me to succeed”, stressed Nigel Scantlebury.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Nigel Scantlebury in Koblenz in August 2026

Nigel Scantlebury who lists ex Charlotte Hornet James Bouknight as his toughest cover in the NCAA was born on March 10th, 2000 in Rochester, New York. He got his first basketball experience playing with Greece Athena high school and played AAU basketball with the Rochester Area Players Stars. He reached the AAU final and picked up numerous honors in high school with HS First Team All-Monroe County -2016, 17, HS First Team All-Greater Rochester -2016, 17, HS All-State honors -2016, 17, and HS Monroe County Player of the Year -2017. However that success didn´t buy him a ticket to the NCAA, but instead had to pay his dues in JUCO. He played at Niagara County Community College averaging 6.0ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 75.6% and 14.3ppg, 4.1rpg, 5.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 75.4%. He made massive strides in his second season playing for head coach Bill Beilein. “Man, Coach B was what I needed. Just everyday building he was so important in my development because he understood me, him understanding me made it easier to challenge me everyday. I couldn’t imagine not have having him as my coach it was like a perfect match for me because we’re just alike, super competitive, hard working, and just want to get better every chance we get. Til this day he is still there for me, I love B”, stressed Nigel Scantlebury. JUCO is definitely an experience that he will never forget and have stored in his memory bank the way Bears do honey. “I loved the JUCO experience. It was tough but it was necessary I needed to go through it to get to where I am today. The relationships I built over those 2 years I will forever value. I still go up to my JUCO every summer I feel like it keeps me grounded because I have learned so much”, warned Nigel Scantlebury.

The New York native who lists Christian Jones, Ian Krishnan, Emir Kranijic, Hunter Anderson, and Matthew Lesch as his five best teammates of all-time then was rewarded for his tireless work in JUCO and played three seasons at Central Connecticut State University (NCAA) averaging 8.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 76.4%, 13.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.5apg, FGP: 42.4%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 86.4%, and 10.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.3apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 41.9%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 85.7%. These three years were incredibly vital for his basketball development. “CCSU pushed me past my limits. I learned so much about myself and about life there. As a player I feel like I did not reach my full potential I left things on the table. I was still a good player but I know I could have done more. I was reliable player anything you needed done I would do it, came up big in big moments no matter what type of game I was having, but yes, lots of love for CCSU”, stated Nigel Scantlebury. In his first NCAA game, he battled top school UConn and lost 102-75 having a 4/2/5/1 game in 21 minutes. “I remember thinking to myself that I went from playing Eric Community College to playing UConn. We played great for the first 30 minutes of the game and then they made adjustments. Dan Hurley is a great coach that UConn team had some big-time players too, it was a good experience for sure”, said Nigel Scantlebury. He had so many massive games like exploding for 30 points against SFU, stroked FDU for 27 points and scored 25 points against Holy Cross. Was there a fondest moment at CCSU for him? “My fondest moment would be against FDU in the NEC tournament. I think we were the only game playing that day on TV so a lot of people tuned in. We were down 15 in the second half and we never had the lead in the whole game until the end. It was an exciting game, we had some big plays from our freshmen Trent McLaughlin, Dre Snoddy, Jayden Brown, Joe Ostrowsky, and our upperclassmen Tre Mitchell and Ian Krishnan made big plays as well. It came down to me hitting to free throws to win the game but without my guys none of it was possible”, remembered Nigel Scantlebury. He was also so fortunate to have been able to continue to develop his game further towards a pro career with head coach Patrick Sellers. “I am so proud of Coach Sellers what he has done for CCSU is amazing and it’s everything he said he was going to do and more. Coach Sellers introduced professional sets to me, so I was prepared when I came overseas. He made the environment as professional as possible. We had NBA personnel show up to practices, he always spoke about what it takes to become a professional”, commented Nigel Scantlebury. He was also lucky to have a great teammate in Zack Newkirk as their relationship went beyond the usual 1-1 battles in practice. “We didn’t play much 1-1 but our practices were so competitive. Zach made me a better player in 2 years, his approach to the game is what made him so special, doesn’t complain just gets the work done I try my best to be more like him”, expressed Nigel Scantlebury.

The speedy guard who lists Lebron James, Allen Iverson, Michael Jordan, Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Durant on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore came overseas in 2023 and played his rookie season with BC Vera Tbilisi (Georgia-A League) averaging PPG-3 (20.8), 3.2rpg, APG-3 (7.2), SPG-2 (2.5), FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 75.0%. He had a shorter season coming in mid season and did he like most others Americans have a wake up call to being overseas? “I didn’t have a wake up call honestly, I knew what I was signing myself up for and no one forced me to do it. I just wanted to come in and make a good impression as a professional”, said Nigel Scantlebury. His second season was a real challenge with Slavia SPU Nitra (Slovakia-Tipos SBL) where he averaged 20.9ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 87.0%. The team began 0-9 and rapidly if a team isn´t winning, then an import can often become the scape goat. “It was tough and I felt like I did not fully settle in that is crazy to say given my numbers were good. As team we just were not ready to compete it was a tough situation. If anything, I think learned how to push through a rough patch, it was tough experience but controlling the controllable things is what got me through, regardless of the record my approach to the game was the same”, added Nigel Scantlebury. Last season he played with KK Zlatorog Lasko (Slovenia-Liga OTP banka) averaging PPG-1 (17.4ppg), 2.6rpg, APG-3 (5.9apg), SPG-3 (1.9spg), FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 83.1%. He helped the club reach the playoffs, but they were swept by top team Cedevita. “It was a good experience to play against a prestigious club like that. I will remember how fearless we were especially being a young team. The difference was experience, high level players who played for a long time makes a huge difference. They know how to punish you off mistakes and make a ton of reads off one action”, remembered Nigel Scantlebury. He was teammates with top Slovenian junior player Gal Cop who recently won the 2026 U-18 Euro Gold. Both instantly formed a special relationship on and off the court. “I love Cop, that’s my little bro. He is as good as advertised and he’s only going to get better. What makes him special is ability to be coachable and when you add that with his talent and his fearlessness there is no limit for him. Overall, a great kid who comes from a great family”, said Nigel Scantlebury who didn´t see the sequel to the classic Coming to America, but knows that sometimes you have to leave classics alone.

The New York native who lists Lebron James as his GOAT is playing his fourth professional season in Germany for the Giessen 46ers and continues to live the special and unique basketball globetrotter life. “I think what I’ve enjoyed most about the overseas life is learning about new cultures and being in different environments. It has allowed me to be more open minded about trying new foods and things like that. Not really trying to be too cool for things trying to break out of my shell”, stated Nigel Scantlebury. Coming to Germany, he knew that there is a lot of talent that has come out of Germany and also had a friend play here with Dontay Caruthers. It wasn´t hard for him to join a historic organization like the Giessen 46ers who have incredible passionate fans and a great coach in Frenki Ignjatovic. “I heard nothing but great things about Giessen. From the fans to the city and culture everyone I spoke to about Giessen says it’s a great place to be. Really excited about the fans I am looking forward to being in passionate environment. Frenki is an old school guy straight forward approach it did not take much to convince me. I appreciate his vision getting Giessen back to the BBL and involving me to be as productive as I can be”, warned Nigel Scantlebury. So what kind of player will German basketball fans experience? He likes to add spices from many players in the NBA and outside, but if one had to make a comparison, he is a healthy mix of Jalen Brunson and Mike Conley. He is an explosive guard that cans core with the best of them, but also slip into the role of the classical playmaker, but is he more a scoring guard or a playmaker? “I am not sure what I would classify myself as I am more in the middle and I would also say it depends on the type of game I’m having but I can flip the switch at any time”, warned Nigel Scantlebury. He has no problem getting to the hole, but in what direction is his three pointer going to go in Germany? He shot 41% one season in the NCAA, but shot 30% in Slovenia last season. “I want to shoot better shots, having the ability to hit tough shots is nice but I think if I can start getting easier looks my percentage will be better”, warned Nigel Scantlebury. He has shown his playmaking qualities overseas and wants to continue to make strides in that areas with Giessen. “I want to find the perfect balance between being aggressive scoring wise and being a playmaker. I think I’m better all around when I’m aggressive not necessarily being aggressive to score but to be aggressive to be a threat. Having a lot of good players on the team this year will make it easier for me to play-make”, stressed Nigel Scantlebury. His offense may stand out in an instance, but he can impact a game just as well on the defensive end. “My defense is an underrated part of my game, even at my size I can do so much on that end of the ball. I would say I’m versatile I can switch 1-4 and guard the post, I’m smart enough to switch off at the right time, I can pressure the ball and play the passing lanes. I want to become a better communicator on defense I think that will improve my defense a lot”, added Nigel Scantlebury who will work most this season on catch and shoot as easy looks are good for the team. It will be interesting to see if he can make the next step in Germany. So far he has been able to be consistent everywhere overseas and it won´t be any different in Germany.

Joel Opoku-Tham (190-G-1996) is a 30 year old 190cm guard from Ghana, Africa. He has experience abroad having played in Greece with Trikala BC (Greece-C) and AO Trikala (Greece-National League 2). He also played with Spintex Knights Accra (ABL D1). He recently played at the Pathway Pro Tour and spoke to germanhoops.com about his career.

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

It is a my pleasure and thanks for having me as well. I am currently in Germany in Bad Kreuznach and with the off season working and looking for where the next opportunity lands to do what I do best

You took part at the Pathway Pro Tour In Germany. How did that come about?

Elijah Allen is a friend and he connected me to the event.

Talk a little about how then tour was run. Was it just practices and games or were other things involved?

It was a great experience and it was a moment of networking with great basketball minds in the country as well as practicing and playing against top talents in the country.

How good was the competition and how did you fare stat wise during the tour?

The competition was great with a mix up of Pro B, Pro A and Regio 1 players. I did great stay wise with an average of 9 points in all 3 games and 4 assists per game. Also judging from coaches feedback I looked composed and helped create shots for the team when needed.

Talk a little about the organizers Elijah Allen and Joe Asberry. What did you appreciate most about them as people and how did they help your game best?

Elijah and Joe were great. I have known Elijah and his approach to the game with professionalism and detail is great. Joe on the other hand was my first time meeting him, but had already heard a lot of good stuff about him as well before our meeting. That made it exciting to get to know him, he is a very honest person who shows an unwavering passion towards the success of everyone around him.

Let´s talk a little about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would fit the best description?

I would say Donovan Mitchell or Dennis Schroeder.

Talk about your offensive game. What are your biggest strengths?

Creating for a middy and 3, fast paced transition initiator, strong finishing,v ersatile in PNR.

How would you describe the development of your three pointer? How has it grown over the years?

It has grown over the years with an average of 3 per game.

Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I’m a Strong on ball defender with quick hands and good defensive instincts. I have good lateral quickness but want to improve it more.

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

More of my catch and shoot 3s.

You are from Ghana. Talk about your early years. How is basketball in Ghana. Did you have an early mentor?

I began basketball at the age of 13 and it was not an easy start because my parents didn’t agree from the beginning until I made the national U18 team to represent the country. So I had to sometimes sneak to practices and train on empty stomachs because I used my upkeep money for transportation to practice, or sometimes miss school classes so I could make it for basketball camps and practices. Basketball in Ghana now is much better than when I began with a growing interest now. My mentor growing up was definitely my basketball coach (Coach Mike) who taught me great values to have as a young athlete.

You played in Greece for Trikala BC (Greece-C). What kind of an experience was Greece. How did your game grow there?

This was my first professional and overseas experience as such it taught me how to be mentally tough, and quickly adapt to situations and improved my basketball IQ greatly. I grew from being a young athlete to being a mature athlete with an improved IQ.

You recently played for Spintex Knights Accra (ABL D1). What kind of an experience was that for you?

It was an honor and pleasure to represent a club from my home country in the BAL despite having a slight injury going into the tournament. The experience was another shift to a more athletic league rather than IQ dependent.

What goals do you have as a player? What is your dream?

My dream is to be an NBA player and also be a light of impact to the next generation through this game of basketball.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career that reached the NBA or any other top league?

Ben Bentil and Prince Ali

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Emmanuel Wolff, Maxwell Okoampah, George Leipinotis,

Please name your personal NBA and Mount Rushmore of you’re your personal 4 best players of all-time?

NBA: Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Derrick Rose

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe Bryant (RIP)

Thanks Joel for the chat.