Green Mountain College senior Douglas Hammond has just inked a contract with SSV Lok Bernau basketball club in Germany. Hammond who helped lead Green Mountain to the Northeast Region Independent Title this season will be joining the Bernau club at the beginning of August for their 2008-2009 season. Bernau is coming off a 28-16 season that placed them third in the North Division of the Regionalliga.


"I'm very excited about the opportunity to continue my basketball career, this is a great opportunity. Since the day I first picked up a basketball my dream was to play professionally. It's a blessing that I've worked hard enough to be called a professional in the sport that I love."

The 6'6 senior post player put together a prolific season this winter, averaging 23.4ppg, 14.8rpg, and 4.5bpg. After leading the country in blocked shots and finishing second nationally in rebounding in Division 3, Hammond was voted the Association of Division 3 Independent Player of the Year, and was selected to the D3hoops Northeast Region 2nd team.

"This year was my most memorable year in basketball, and I'm going to miss playing with my teammates and for Coach Montana. Since the season ended I've worried about being overlooked for a chance like this, but it feels good to exhale and know I've made it. I hope to grow as a player while I'm over in Germany and continue to get better so I can play until my body won't let me anymore."

"We're certainly going to miss Doug here at Green Mountain", Coach Montana said, "Doug is a great kid, who has worked hard and is very deserving of this opportunity. He has done great things for Green Mountain College and our basketball program, and we wish him all the best as he continues his career. Bernau is getting a special player, and a great person."

Hammond will be replacing former NYU player Jason Boone on the club roster, Boone has moved on to join the Goettingen club in the first division in Germany.

"Going to Germany will be culture shock, but I'm ready to grow as a person and a player through this experience."

Youtube highlight clips
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyyPXEEM9BI