Lock Down Defender Dennis Diala(Ahorn Camp Baskets) Continues To Grind In The Pro B But Has The Dream To Play In International Competition

Pic credit: Sabine Jost

That the NBA is defined by it´s offense, athleticism, eye popping dunks and Wemby at the moment, it is a wonder at times that defense is still played in the NBA. But it isn´t all about offense as there are enough guys that can be called 2-way players or guys that are simply real lockdown defenders. Some guys that come to mind in the NBA are studs like Jrue Holiday, Alex Caruso. OG Anunoby or Luuentz Dort. That a more focus on offense has also shifted overseas is nothing new as on the last Euroleague game day from March5/6, there was no team that scored 100 points or more, but still 4 teams that scored 90 points or more and the rest 80 points or more. One can still see real hardnosed defense in the Euroleague as it is led by lockdown defenders like Nick Weiler-Babb, Thomas Walkup and Isaac Bonga who all played in Germany at one time or the other. But it isn´t only in the top leagues where one can see top notch defense, but also in lower leagues all over the globe. Even in the German Pro B, one can witness lower scoring games and even there there are lock down defenders who pride their game on making a massive impact on the defensive end. One of those guys is young 22 year old German Dennis Diala (196-SF-2003). It is really enriching to see such effort and engagement from young players on the defensive end since often it then where young bucks want to make an impact on the offensive end. One doesn´t only need a great skill set and work ethic to be a potent defender, but also extreme confidence in one´s craft. “I see myself as a lock down defender and one of the best in the Pro B. I can defend any guard and usually defend the other team´s best defenders”, warned Dennis Diala who ranks Michael Jordan as his GOAT. DJ Woodmore definitely sees him as a sturdy defender who can make an impact. “Dennis has been our best perimeter defender the last few years. His wing span and good instincts make it tough for any player to get a clean look. I think that he has taken a huge step physically this season and it shows every weekend. I still think that he is only scratching the surface of what he can be. I put him on the list of the top defenders in the Pro B”, stressed Ahorn Camp Baskets Speyer guard DJ Woodmore.

The 197cm guard/forward who lists ex Alba Berlin guard Jaleen Smith and Yanic Niederhauser of the Los Angeles Clippers as his toughest opponents so far in his career began his basketball career with SG Heidelberg/Kirchheim and then played Regionalliga with USC Heidelberg and played with their NBBL (U-19) team. He will never forget Matthias Stein as he was his mentor in his early years. He got to practice with the MLP Academics and even played 2 easyCredit BBL games against Alba Berlin and ratiopharm Ulm. He then made the next jump in his career and joined the Ahorn Camp Baskets Speyer. Is he calling Speyer his second home now in his fourth season? “Yes it has. I´m originally from Heidelberg. When you are in an organization for a longer period of time, it really feels like home. I feel very comfortable in Speyer”, said Dennis Diala. The club has made big strides the last 3 seasons having reached the playoffs. Will they make it a fourth consecutive season to the promised land? “I´m very confident that it will happen again. We have a strong team and deserve to be in the playoffs this season. We lost some bitter games this season that we shouldn´t have lost, but I feel that if we can beat Frankfurt and Dresden, then we will have good chances”, warned Dennis Diala. He played in the playoffs against Wolmirstedt, RheinStars and Leverkusen. Was there a favorite series for him? “I think the RheinStars series is the one that I remember most. We were up 15 points in game 1 and lost control in the fourth quarter and lost. It was similar in game 3. I think that had we won that series, that we could of gone far”, remembered Dennis Diala. The initiator of the success has been head coach Carl Mbassa who has been at the helm now for 13 seasons. He was a solid second Bundesliga player and even played parts of 2 seasons in the BBL with Frankfurt and Nordlingen. “He is a very emotional coach. He knows what he gets from each player and always tries to bring the best out of each player. He works hard at helping us be able to make the next step as a player”, commented Dennis Diala.

Pic credit: Sabine Jost

The athletic German who lists and DJ Woodmore, Kelvin Martin, Rob Lowery, Shy Ely, Brekkott Chapman as his 5 best teammates of all-time has been more than fortunate having a teammate with DJ Woodmore from the start. Woodmore like Mbassa has been a Speyer lifer and has been instrumental in Diala becoming the type of player he is today. “Foremost DJ is a great person and teammate. I have defended him so many times the lasty years in practice which has really helped my game. I have to admit that I have copied some of his moves. He forced me to take shots when I was younger. I´m really thankful how he has helped my game over the years”, stated Dennis Diala. But it isn´t only Woodmoore that has helped his game and the success of the club, but two other Germans with veterans Christoph Rupp und David Aichele who combined have been with the organization for 10 years. “Rupp is a very smart player and one of the smartest players that I have played with in my career. He is really good at how he moves on the court and brings opponent´s defense out of their concept. It is so easy to play with him. He makes every teammates´ life easier. David is a big presence, can get every rebound and always ready on defense. He is a real force on defense”, explained Dennis Diala. The German has made solid strides in his 100 games pro B career. He averaged 8/3r his first 2 seasons and currently is at 9/4. Head coach Carl Mbassa never parked him on the bench when he arrived, but simply threw him into the shark tank early. “He believed in me since the start. I came as a NBBL player from Heidelberg and it wasn´t a given that he would give me trust. He trusted me after 4-5 games and began to insert me in the starting lineup. He pushed me from the start and I´m very grateful that he did”, added Dennis Diala.

The lockdown defender who lists his NBA, Euroleague and German Mount Rushmores with players Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, Giannis, Nikola Jokic, Luka Donic, Tony Parker and Dennis Schroeder, Dirk Nowitzki, Franz Wagner, and Detlef Schrempf is a player that has never really compared his game to any player. He does watch many video´s of top players and hopes one day to become a mix of Kevin Punter and Kevin Durant. He has demonstrated in the last 3 years that he can be a durable scorer. In his second season he scored in double figures 9 times and last season and this season 11 times. Last season he even exploded with 28 points against Erfurt. He is so close to cracking the 10,oppg in a season. Can he attain this plateau? “I believe I can make it. I just have to continue to work hard”, said Dennis Diala. His three pointer is still a work in progress as 2 seasons ago he was at 31% and last season at 23% and currently is at 23%. “I have improved my three pointer the last years. I feel that my hard work over the summers really paid off. I think that I can get better. I feel like my open and catch and shoot shots are solid, but I have to work on my off the dribble shooting better”, expressed Dennis Diala. He knows that his defense is already at a good area in his game, but it´s his offense that he still needs to tweak to reach the next level. “I want to perfect my three pointer and improve my drive to the rim”, commented Dennis Diala. So what goals does he have as a player? He wanted to play in the Pro A this season, but had no offers and returned to Speyer. A run in the playoffs this season could really help him for the next step next season. His dreams are definitely big. “I want to play at the highest possible level. My dream is to play in international competitions like Euroleague or Eurocup”, stressed Dennis Diala. But he should go one step at a time. He definitely deserves a Pro A gig next season.

Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye Somehow Powered Through It And Netted 50 Points In A Game In Iceland Despite Sleeping Only 3 Hours And Having A Runny Nose

Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye (193-G-1996, college: Bradley) is a 29 year old 196cm guard that has the British/French citizenship and currently is playing his third season with UMFN Njardvik (Iceland-Subway League). 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 togermanhoops.com after scoring 50 points in a first division game in Austria.

Congrats on scoring 50 points in a win over Armann. What does it personally mean to you to score 50 points?

The most important thing for me was getting the win but afterwards looking back at it, it felt really good. Not many people can say they’ve reached 50 points in a professional match and my assistant coach informed me afterwards I am only 1 of 5 people in club history to reach the milestone so it’s nice to join the club

You were never that explosive scorer before you came to Iceland. Did 50 points surprise you a bit that you could be capable of a feat like that?

I feel like I’ve always been capable of being an explosive scorer but throughout my journey as a professional I’ve had to take on different roles at different times for the betterment of the team. I knew if there was a game this season in which I was feeling it early I would have a chance to have a big night. It was just my night that night and ended up going for 50.

There is a side story to your milestone. On the stats there was 48 points but you really scored 50 points. What happened exactly?

So on the paper I had 50 but on the online stats it was 48. But after, the game was reviewed and we learnt that human error on the table gave a dunk of mine in the 3rd Q to my big man Dominykas Milka. It’s crazy because we don’t look the same but the federation amended the issue and confirmed that yes it was in fact 50.

How strange is it knowing you had 50 points despite ending the game thinking you had 48 points?

It was weird because I just wanted to know the truth and know for sure which it was, but we got the 2 points on the league table for the win so that was all I really cared about.

Did you have anything different for breakfast or change something on your routine to amass so many points?

The crazy thing is I was sick the last few days in practice and wasn’t able to do too much in the sessions. I maybe slept only 3 hours the night before the game with headaches and a runny nose. But with a playoff push needed for the end of the season I knew how much we needed to win and just tried to power through. And I was able to do it much better than I could have imagined. I guess there’s some magic in a flu game.

How were you feeling going into the game with your game? You had had 31 points in the previous game and scored 30 points or more 6 times in the season going in?

My coach and teammates do a great job giving me confidence and telling me to be aggressive in games. Coming off the international break you’re sometimes not sure if they’ll be rusty or not. But we had a game plan to attack some weaknesses Arman had and I knew if we executed it would be a good game.

How quickly did you know in the game that you might have a great scoring game?

I think I knew at halftime, when my team mate came up and joked that he’d buy me lunch if I scored 50. ‘I was like what do you mean 50?’ Then he let me know that I had 24 points, which surprised me. But maybe the added motivation helped me get it. Safe to say I will be getting that lunch from him.

The team had 22 team assists and you had 6 assists. How much of your scoring would you say was done on isolation?

I wouldn’t say too much scoring is done in isolation, we have certain actions to try and punish the defense or put them in uncomfortable situations so we just try to focus on that.

How blessed are you to have such a talented big man in Dominykas Milka who had 8 assists in your feat?

It’s a privilege to play with a big man like Milka. He’s selfless and willing to do whatever it is for the team. He sets great screens, does all the little things and is a beast on the rebounds. You add the playmaking too, he’s easily one of the most underappreciated players in the league. Playing now multiple seasons with him we’ve built a good chemistry and it shows in how many easy baskets he gave me.

Did you know in the fourth quarter that you were close to 50 points?

When I got to 45 I knew, we had a timeout and some of the young guys on the bench let me know and just kept saying ‘you’re almost at 50’

What was your favorite own basket of the game?

I would say my last free throw gave me 50. We’d pretty much sealed the game now, I subbed out and my coach and team mates gave me a big hug and I could relax and really take in what had just taken place. It was my first 50 point game in my career so it felt nice to know it’s something I’ve accomplished.

Did you get any unique congrats via phone or social media after the game?
Nothing crazy, just a bunch of messages from friends and family that were happy about the moment.

Did you have to get donuts for the team?


No donuts but I’ll have to bring in something for sure for everyone.

Thanks Dwayne for the chat.

Birthday Boy Julian Larry Knew His Classic Game Winning Shot Was Going In Shocking The Hakro Merlins 78-76

pic credit: Angel Media

Julian Larry (190-G, college: Texas) is a 190cm guard from Texas playing his rookie season overseas in Germany with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. He began the season with Munster averaging 12,3ppg, 1,9rpg, 3,6aqpg and 1,4spg. He began his basketball career at Lone Star High School and then played at Indiana State (NCAA) from 2020-2024 amassing a total of 128 games. He then added an extra season with the University Of Texas. He spoke to germanhoops.com after beating top team Hakro Merlins with the 78-76 game winner.

Congrats birthday boy Julian on helping the EPG Baskets Koblenz gain a massive come from behind win over the Hakro Merlins. Could this be the turning point of the season?

This could be the turning point of the season for sure. It just shows how together we were as a team and what can happen. This win is something that we can build off.

Was this today one of your best birthdays ever?

This was one of my best birthdays that I had recently. I don´t think that I have ever played on my birthday before.

Did you have specifically a special Birthday breakfast that sparked your play?

It was nothing out of the ordinary. It was a normal routine just preparing for the game.

You told me a few weeks ago that your biggest wish was to help the EPG Baskets Koblenz make the playoffs. You weren´t kidding after your performance tonight. You left it all out on the court.

For sure we grinded this win out. It was a great ending to a game where we grinded all night long.

Was this your biggest win in your professional career so far?

Of course. I haven´t had so many yet as a rookie.

The loss to the RheinStars was tough. Did you guys have a type of team meeting after that loss?

We understood that we could of played better against them, but they did play a really good game. We just wanted to learn from our mistakes and give a better effort in Crailsheim.

With what kind of a mindset did the team come to Crailsheim. After the brutal loss to Cologne, I think the fewest believed a win could be possible? How were the spirits of the players?

Our spirits were like any other game. We knew of the task at hand. When you play against a really good team like Crailsheim, you always have to be prepared and we were.

There was no quick start by Crailsheim, but Koblenz was right there in the first quarter trailing only 23-21. Did you a different kind of body language in comparison to the RheinStars game?

I would say so. We struck through it and never gave in.

The Hakro Merlins led 43-36 at half-time. Koblenz mostly had an answer when they punched, but lost some steam in the last minutes. What did head coach Stephan Dohrn tell the team to do better in the second half?

He told us that we had a really good first half. We had to be better prepared against their ball coverage as they made minor adjustments in the second quarter. He also wanted us to get our offense flowing again.

Tyrese Blunt made big baskets the whole night. What was like battling him in the trenches?

It was a good battle. I had already played against him with Munster. I knew that he was a really good player and moves really well. He just made plays.

In the third quarter the Hakro Merlins led by as much as 12 points, but Koblenz never gave up and hurled a 11-0 run at Crailsheim. How big was that will to keep fighting? Was it the best that you have seen since you arrived?

I would say so. We never stopped fighting against adversary and we never gave in. We knew that we had to be really alert, because they feed off opponents mistakes. We just took it possession by possession. We never lost that next play mentality.

In the fourth quarter Koblenz began with a 5-0 run to dead lock the contest at 60-60, but Crailsheim punched back with a 9-0 run to lead 69-60 with 4,49 to play. What was going through your mind at that moment?

We just kept making plays. Our mindset wasn´t too crazy at that time.

The runs kept coming with 7 points from Koblenz and then a 7-0 run by Crailsheim to lead 76-67 with 1,51 to play. Were you feeling confident? I mean you had come back the whole game?

We knew we had to keep putting pressure on them. That led to turnovers which resulted in easy baskets for us.

Koblenz then strung along stops and scored 11 unanswered points to win. Badu Buck hit a big three pointer to tie the game at 76-76. How key was the momentum at this moment? Do you feel like Crailsheim was feeling some uncertainty?

I don´t know if they felt uncertain, but you could feel the momentum shift when Badu made that basket. We made them pay. It was like looking down and then up again and the game was tied at 76-76.

You then won the game with a bucket. Take me through that last play?

I mean there wasn´t much time left with 7 seconds. I just ran downhill and planted my feet and let it rip as it landed off the back board and went in.

Did you know that your shot was going in?

Of course. It felt good.

Did you want to bank it in?

At first no, but when I released it and from the angle I had, that was the only choice to happen.

What do you believe did the team learn from this win tonight?

We learned that when you stick through adversary then you can be really good.

Will you get donuts for the team?

Yes I will.

Thanks Julian for the chat.

Returning To The NBA Will Always Be On RaiQuan Gray’s(AEK BC Athens) Mind But For Now He Will Continue To Build His Resume Overseas

RaiQuan Gray (203-F-1999, college: FSU) is a 26 year old 203cm forward from Ft Lauderdale playing his 5th professional season and second overseas and second with AEK BC Athens. He played his first 3 professional seasons in the G-League with Long Island and Austin and also played 3 NBA games with the Spurs and 1 with the Nets. He began his basketball career at Dillard High School and then played at Florida State (NCAA) from 2018-2021 and in 2021 was drafted by the Brooklyn Nets at #59 in the second round. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Alba Berlin.

Thanks Raiquan for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second season with AEK BC Athens. What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

It has overall been very enjoyable. I have a new journey and it´s been a lot different to what I was used to from the States. I´m really happy playing for AEK BC Athens.

Has Athens become like a second home for you?

For sure. It took some time to get familiar with all, but it has been great. It is great competition and crazy fans. Greece is a very beautiful country.

Was there some culture shock at first coming from the smaller Ft Lauderdale?

Not as much. As soon as I got to understand everything, it was good. The people are all nice. The biggest adjustment was being ahead 7 hours to home.

The team is playing well and is in third place in the Greek first division standings. How enjoyable is the challenge of competing against the 2 Euroleague teams Panathinaikos and Olympiakos?

It´s been great. I´m a competitor and always want to play the top teams and measure up to them to see where I´m at. It is great competition. I have shown that I belong on that stage.

The team next battles the 3-0 Alba Berlin in the Basketball Champions League. Does AEK have what it takes this season to win a international title?

I think so. My primary purpose why I came back was too win the BCL. We as a team went so far last season and know what it takes to get so far. Now we want to win it. We feel like we have good chances to win. We want to build off our momentum and keep getting wins.

How valuable has a guy like ex NBA player James Nunally been for you? Is he like a mentor for you?

Yes for sure. He has been playing for a very long and has a great IQ. All ears are on him when he is speaking. He is a really good teammate and guy.

Your having solid seasons in both competitions. You’re a guy that fills the stat sheet really well. What exactly is your role on the team this season?

I do it all. I feel like that has always been my role. I´m a versatile player and can affect the game in many ways. If it means rebounding, scoring or defending the other team´s best player, I will do it.

Your almost averaging 4,0apg in the BCL. Have you been asked to be more of a facilitator in the BCL?

I think that I have always been a natural passer. Roles are always changing. Last season we had more of a passing center with Grant Golden and this season, I have been called upon to be more of a passing forward.

You never took many three´s in the G-League. Is incorporating a three pointer more into your game a goal of yours?

Yes I do. I want to have better three point shooting percentages. I think that I just need to take more reps and I´ll be fine.

You were overseas last season for the first time. What was your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I think it happened during a domestic game last season. I didn´t play in the second half. I didn´t have a good first half. I understood after that I needed to have a better focus and understanding of the game so I would play more. I needed to learn more about the game, but still be myself on the court.

You reached the BCL Final 4 beating French team Nanterre in an exciting 3 game series and then lost Malaga. What memories do you have of that run?

It was so electric. We hosted the Final 4 in Greece. The atmosphere was amazing and so were the fans. It was real high level hoops. One won´t really know what that feels like unless you were there. It was one of the best experiences in my life.

You played your first 3 pro seasons in the G-League and NBA. You played 4 NBA games and scored in double figures in 3 of them. Those are pretty unusual stats. Do you feel like you got a fair chance to show your game?

Not really. No one really ever asked me that question before. I never felt sorry for myself. I mean I feel like I did the most I could with the opportunity that was given to me. I feel like these times helped me grow. I couldn´t have asked for a better opportunity then.

You played your rookie season with the Long Island Nets averaging 7.4ppg, 7.2rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 20.3%, FT: 82.5%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie?

That first year showed me that I had to fix my habits and create good habits and be confident. I needed the right mind set and it made me hungrier.

In your second season you averaged 15.0ppg, 7.8rpg, 3.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 64.9%, but only played 4 minutes more than the season before. Did head coach Ronnie Burrell discover your scoring abilities?

I don´t know if he discovered it. I will always appreciate that he believed in me and let me be myself. I was aggressive and played with that chip on my shoulder. He saw something in me and pulled it out.

You were really consistent that season and didn´t get a call up until the end of the season. Was this another good example that politics rules the NBA business?

Possibly. A lot goes on behind the scenes that one can´t control. I just go out and take what´s given to me and do the best possible.

You made your NBA debut against the 76ers and had a fine game with 16/9/7 in 36 minutes. How much fun was that game? You were a bit in the shadow of Cam Thomas´s 46 points though.

It was a really cool moment. My family was there to witness it. I was actually home 2 days before my debut and then flew back to play. I knew before the game that I would play well. I knew since I was a little kid that I would be a NBA player one day. I had put in so much work. I was confident and ready to have a good game.



The next season you played with the at Austin Spurs (NBA G League) averaging 15.4ppg, 6.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 61.4%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 76.1% and played 3 NBA games with the Spurs. Once again you got called up at the end of the season. You won the last game against Detroit. What was your personal highlight from those 3 games?

I got extended minutes at Oklahoma City. I let it all out on the court. I hit shots early and felt good. I also had a solid game in Detroit. I was able to fit into a system and be myself around good players.

You were teammates with Victor Wembanyama and saw what he did then an dhow he has continued to develop. Where do you see his game being in 5 years?

He will be the best player in the NBA in 5 years. I saw what he could do behind closed doors. He had an incredible mentality and work ethic. He was different.

How big is your personal NBA goal? Guys have gone back after coming overseas.

My goal is still the NBA. I will never shut the door on the NBA dream. I´m 26 at the moment and not 30. I feel like I still have a small window open. If the opportunity ever presents it´s self then I´ll take it. Meanwhile I will keep building my resume overseas.

You played at Florida State from 2018-2021 and reached 2 NCAA Sweet 16´s. What loss was tougher? To Gonzaga or Michigan?

I think that Gonzaga was the tougher loss. I wasn´t ready for the moment. It was my first year in the NCAA- The game was super fast. We had the team to do it that year.

You had many great games at FSU including beating North Carolina twice as a senior. What was your fondest moment on the court?

It wasn´t my moment, but when Trent Forest dunked on Jordan Nwora against Louisville. We were #5 at that moment. It was the loudest that I ever heard the crowd.

How did head coach Leonard Hamilton groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He taught discipline early and gave me freedom. He taught me to be professional, take care of business and how to communicate. He held me accountable, but also allowed me to make mistakes and be able to learn from them and grow.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Malik Osborne?

I will take myself.

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

Marvin Bagley and Zion Williamson.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Trent Forest, Terrence Mann, Justin Linder, DayRon Sharpe and Mfiondu Kabengele

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Carmelo Anthony and Kobe Bryant

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

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

I didn´t see it.

Thanks Raiquan for the chat.

It’s Always Refreshing Seeing Some Old School In A Big As Brendan Temple Displays For Racing Luxemburg

Brendan Temple (206-C-2000, college: Purdue NW) is a 206cm center from Colorado playing his second professional season and second with Racing Luxembourg (Luxembourg-Nationale 2) averaging 15,8ppg, 9,9rpg and 2,6apg. Last season he averaged 21.2ppg, RPG-5 (12.0), 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP-2 (60.4%), 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 66.7%. He began his basketball career at Douglas County high school and then played 4 seasons and 112 games for Carroll College (NAIA). In his last season there he averaged : 13.3ppg, 8.1rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 75.8%. He then played one more season with Purdue University Northwest (NCAA2) averaging 14.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 64.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Brendan for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second pro season overseas and second with Racing Luxemburg. Was it a no brainer to stay after helping the team move up to the first division?

Thanks for reaching out and yeah it was definitely an easy decision. I really liked my teammates and coaches, and I wanted to see what we could do together in the first league. On top of that, living in Luxembourg City has been a really nice experience, so it just made sense to come back.

You hail from beautiful Castle Rock that has a scenery many Americans would die for. What have you found beautiful in Luxemburg since arriving in late summer 2024?

I actually grew up in the western suburbs of Chicago in La Grange, Illinois. Moved to Castle Rock in high school and have been living there ever since. Since coming to Luxembourg, I’ve noticed how beautiful and clean the city is but the rolling green hills outside of the city are definitely underrated and remind me a little bit of Colorado.

You lost a tough test game in Germany to the Dragons Rhondorf. Germany is the place for basketball since years ever since Germany won world cup and now they are Euro champs. Is Germany on your bucket list to play in one day?

Yes, I’d definitely like to play in Germany one day. I liked the style of basketball there; it was physical and methodical, which I feel fits well with my own game.

Racing Luxemburg is a team that wants to make waves in the first division Luxemburg. Is the goal really only to stay in the league?

The goal is definitely bigger than just staying in the league. We want to turn some heads and make people change their opinion of the club. The focus is on making Racing prominent in the first league and showing that we belong at that level.

The team has many great veterans like home grown players Max Hilger and Steve Lanners. Does the team have the depth to remain in the league?

Yeah, I think the team definitely has the depth to stay in the league. We’ve got a group full of super competitive guys, and everyone knows their role and contributes to making winning plays for the benefit of the team. That kind of mindset is rare, but it’s also something you see in really good teams, and I feel like we have that here.

What has it been like being teammates with ultra veteran Antonnio Bivins? Was he like a mentor for you last season?

Tone has absolutely been a mentor for me. I’ve gone to him with all my questions, which is ironic because we have completely different play styles and energies. But when your teammate has had such a long and successful career, like he has, you tend to listen to what the man has to say. Having Tone help me with the start of my career has been a huge help.

Let´s talk a little about your game. You’re a 206cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

Drew Timme

Is it fair to say you have some old school in you? You had nifty hook shots with both hands as well as a running hook shot and nice fade away jumper. It looks like you have watched quite a few players in your life.

I really developed that scoring touch in college. The hook shot became a go-to for me because it’s such an efficient way to score in the post while only needing a few dribbles. I’ve always watched college basketball more closely than the NBA, and since post play is such a big part of the college game, it stuck with me.

Name some players that you have watched over the years where you have soaked up things from?

NBA bigs that I have stolen things from are Kevin Love, Pau Gasol, Al Jefferson, and Jokic, just to name a few.

You take the three, but not that many. Are you working to incorporate more of a three pointer into your game?

Oh absolutely, becoming consistent from the three will open up my game and make me harder to guard.

What kind of a defender are you now as a pro player? Do you still classify yourself a bit raw? What kind of a defender would you like to still become?

Yeah, I know I can definitely improve on the defensive end. I have a good understanding of positioning off the ball and how to help my teammates, but I know I can still grow as a one-on-one defender. I want to be able to guard multiple positions well.

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

I’m trying to improve my three point and free throw. Getting more consistent in these areas will make me more well rounded.

Last season with Racing Luxembourg (Luxembourg-Nationale 2) you averaged 21.2ppg, RPG-5 (12.0), 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP-2 (60.4%), 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 66.7%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

In the basketball sense, it was the first game against Mess. I realized the game was much different than college and how the refs call the game. In the world sense, it was going to the grocery store and adjusting to the layout, different language, and food brands.

You had so many great games last season. You had 40 points against Bascharage and a massive 20/21 game against Soleuvre. Which of these 2 games was your favorite. Bivins once had a crazy 52/24 game against the latter.

The 40 point game against Bascharge. It was on my birthday.

You played 4 years at Carroll College (NAIA). How formidable were these years for your early basketball development under Kurt Paulsen? How did he help your game most?

My development at Carroll was not what I expected it to be. Believe it or not, I was a wing in high school, shooting the three and having very little post game. Then I got to Carroll and there were more talented guys playing on the wing. The opportunity for me to play was on the block. Coach Paulson developed my post game by teaching me how to finish through contact, having+ great footwork, and developing touch.

You reached the NAIA Elite 8 in 2021. What do you remember from that run? The team bowed out against SAGU:

It was one of my favorite college memories. My favorite game during that run was the round of 16 game against #2 William Penn. I think we were the #15 seed and the team really came together and played our best game of the year.

You had some great games against Providence MT with 27/17 and a 27/13 game against UMW. What was your fondest moment there?

The game against UMW was the first conference home game as a senior. So it was special to start the senior year with a good game and a win. After 3 years of being a role player it was nice to step up for the team.

You then finished at Purdue University Northwest (NCAA2) averaging 14.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 64.6%. You had no adjustment needed going from the NAIA to NCAA 2. How did your game grow that year?

I really credit it to Coach Boom. When I was looking for a new school he was clearly the coach that believed in me the most. He unlocked my game. At PNW, I was able to play make and impact the game from different areas of the court, not just in the paint. *

You had many great games in the NCAA 2. What memories do you have of your 15/5/7/1/1 game against GVSU where you had the game winning basket?

My favorite memory from that game wasn’t the game winner, but the possession prior when I threw a lob to Kalil Whitehead, who is probably the most athletic guy I have ever played with, who just threw it down to secure the lead.

How did head coach Boomer Roberts give you the last needed preparation in being able to turn professional?

Like I said earlier, the biggest thing Coach Boom did for me was give me confidence. He does this with all his players. He builds great relationships.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dalton Gayman?

If it was on the block I would win in a 1v1 scenario but if it was taken anywhere outside the paint DG had my number.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced that reached the NBA?

I played Scottie Pippen Jr quite a bit growing up and he has turned out to be an outstanding player.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Shamrock Campbell, Andrew Cook, Antonio Bivins, Jovan Sljivancanin, CJ Jackson

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan, Jokic, Tim Duncan, Steph Curry

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan

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

Wouldn’t know, haven’t seen it.

Thanks Brendan for the chat.

Having Been Able To Learn From Guys Like Bryant, Reaves And Welp Has Allowed Khyri Thomas’s(MBC) Style Of Play Be Great For The Entire Team

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber with Khyri Thomas in Frankfurt

Khyri Thomas (190-F/G-1996, college: Creighton) is a 29 year old 190cm guard playing his 8th professional season and first in Germany with the Syntainics MBC Weissenfels (BBL). He began his basketball career at Benson high school and alsomplayed at Fork Union Military academy. He then played 3 years at Creighton (NCAA). He then was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 38th draft pick. He then played 3 seasons in the NBA and G-League playing with the Pistons and Rockets in the NBA and with Grand Rapids and Austin in the G-League. He came overseas in 2021 and played in countries like Spain, Israel, and Turkey. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Khyri for talking to germanhoops.com. After stops in Israel, Spain and Turkey, your now in Germany with the SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels (Germany-BBL). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

It’s been a decent journey so far, We have a great group of guys and staff has been very professional.

Your far away from big places like Detroit and Houston. Is it still a tough adjustment to off court things or is the quaintness of Weissenfels perfect to focus more on basketball?

I am not a very needy guy so adjusting isn’t a big problem at all. Learning new things each week about Germany is fun.

The SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels (Germany-BBL) are an incredible organization. They won the Fiba Europe Cup in 2004 and then had many not so successful years in the BBL and even moved down to division 2 and last season surprisingly won the German Cup. What is so special about this organization?

What’s special is the group of guys are very unselfish and all about winning. Which makes things a lot more fun and enjoyable.

The team have so many interesting guys like John Bryant a BBL legend in his 15th BBL season, a Spencer Reaves, the brother of NBA player Austin or Collin Welp the son of Chris who helped Germany win the 1993 Euro. There many more guys and then there is you the ex NBA player. How does your character add to the uniqueness of this years team?

I think just learning from each of those guys has made my style of play be great for the entire team.

From those guys I mentioned above or others, is there a player that has had the biggest impact on you this season?

I’d say Akeem Vargas or John Bryant have been most helpful and their IQ for the game is very amazing.

The team has great scoring balance as 6 guys are scoring in double figures in the BBL this season. In Frankfurt you had big shots in crunch time as did Marcus Foster. What exactly is your role on the team and can any guy be the go to guy on any night?

My role is to be best version of myself on the court and lead as well.

Last summer you played with the Calgary Surge (Canada-CEBL) averaging 8.8ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.9apg, Steals-3 (1.8spg), FGP: 43.9%, 3PT: 33.7%, FT: 77.8%. What kind of experience was it. The CEBL is a rising league. How did this experience help your game more than just being at home and working out?

Simply just getting back in shape from a hamstring injury and knowing how tough this league can be.

Last season you played with Socar Petkimspor (Turkey-BSL) averaging 14.0ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.3apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 70.4%. That was your second tour of duty in Turkey. You lost a tough playoff series against Fenerbahce being swept. What was so tough getting over the hump in that series?

We overcame a lot that season but a team like with that much talent and experience is always challenging.

How tough was the 2022-2023 season? You began in Turkey with Tofas Bursa but then stopped palying for personal reasons, but returned later in the season to Hereda San Pablo Burgos (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 10.9ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 86.5%. You had to play in division 2. What did you learn about yourself in this season?

That season was extremely fun and going to championship was a huge confidence boost for me personally.

In Burgos you were teammates with Rasid Mahalbasic, a very unique player that had amazing seasons in the German BBL and had a string of triple doubles. Was that one of the most versatile bigs that you played with so far overseas?

Too many to name honestly.

In your first season overseas you split time with RETAbet Bilbao Basket (Spain-Liga ACB) and with Maccabi Playtika Tel-Aviv (Israel-Winner League) averaging 7.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 36.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 80.0%; and 3.5ppg, 2.2rpg in the Euroleague. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Just score and try to get back into the NBA.

How big of a learning lesson was the stay in Tel Aviv? You played in the Euroleague, but overall witnessed that you can´t just jump in and expect 30 minutes. How did that stay help you adjust to the ballers life overseas?

To simply stay ready and control what you can control.

You had some amazing teammates in Tel Aviv with Derrick Williams, Scottie Wilbekin and James Nunnally. Was a guy like Williams a mentor for you for your first season overseas?

Absolutely, those guys were very professional, extremely talented, and very welcoming.

You played your rookie season with the Detroit Pistons (NBA) playing 29 games averaging 2.6ppg. What do you remember being your wake up call being a rookie in the NBA?

Control what I can control is all I could do.

You had some real veterans on the team at the guard position like Ishmael Smith and Wayne Ellington. Was one of these guys or someone else like a mentor for you in your rookie season?

Ish Smith was always in my ear and teaching me things.

In your second pro season you played 6 NBA games and 2 G-League games. How tough was this season for you? How tough is it in general to continuing to make a name in the NBA when you can´t show your abilities? Does one lose the footing that one had established in your rookie season? Each season new young guys are coming into the league?

I understood it was a business and nothing personal. Just hooped like always.

In your third pro season and last in the NBA you played 5 games for Houston and 7 in the G-League. How tough was this season during Covid? Was Covid another experience that derailed your attempt to continue to try to establish yourself in the NBA?

Just keep trying to prove I deserve a chance to showcase my talent.

What was the best example that you saw in your 3 years in the NBA where you saw first hand that the NBA will always be a business first?

Just being able to watch veterans be so professional was truly amazing and unforgettable.

You played against so many great players like Dirk Nowitzki, Shai Gillgeous-Alexander Devin Booker or Chris Paul in the NBA, Was there one meeting on the court with a player that you will never forget?

I barely played so I just walked back to the locker rooms honestly.

You played 3 seasons at Creighton (NCAA) and 102 games. You made big jumps in your game each season. How did your game grow in those 3 years?

Locking in mentally and going at the other top guys we played against.

What do you remember from the great NIT Elite 8 run where you beat Alabama and Wagner but lost to BYU?

That was a huge jump in my role for the team going into the next season.

You then reached 2 NCAA tournaments losing to Kansas State and Rhode Island. What memories do you have of the big dance? S What was missing from going further?

Playing with with guys whose last year ended in that type of game and environment.

You had so many great games like against Depaul and St Johns in your senior year. What was your fondest moment on the court in the NCAA?

Simply winning the games and enjoying them with family friends and teammates.

How did head coach Greg Mcdermott groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Treated me like a son of his own. Couldn’t ask for more of him.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Marcus Foster?

ME!!

Who is the toughest player that you have faced in your career?

Marcus Foster!!

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Not fair to the rest of guys I’ve got to play with.

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore?

MJ, Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant.

Who is your Goat?

Kawhi Leonard

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

I have not seen it. Couldn’t tell sorry but most people I know didn’t like the sequel.

Thanks Khyri for the chat

Aytor Alberto(Snaefell) Never Expected To Explode For 45 Points But It Was Just One Of Those Games Where He Took What The Flow Of The Game Gave Him

Aytor Alberto (188-G-2000, college: Cairn, agency: Dagger Basket) is a 25 year old 188cm guard from Holland that is playing his second pro season for Snaefell (Iceland-Division I). He played 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 after exploding for 45 points in a game in Iceland.

Thanks Aytor for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season in Iceland for Snaefell (Iceland-Division I). You recently scored 45 points in a game. You have had some big games in your career, but did you know that you were capable of a feat like that?

I’m extremely confident in my game, so I would never rule out the possibility of me having a performance this big, but to say I saw this realistically coming especially now as a pro would be a lie.

Your teammate Jakorie Smith recently hit for 50 points. Did his game give you some extra motivation for your 45 points?

Not necessarily, but I wanted to up my level of play moving forward just because I did not help him enough in that particular game to also secure the win along with his performance.

Did you have a special breakfast the day of your 45 points or was it just a normal day at the office with the usual pre game routine?

Just a normal day, nothing out of the ordinary in regards to my routine.

How were you feeling when the game started? Did you have a good start with your game?

I was feeling very motivated, just because I knew we needed one more win to officially clinch for playoffs and the fact that we were playing against our rivals.

How quickly did you know in the game that you might have a real good scoring game?

Probably when I noticed at halftime that I already had 23 points.

How tough is it in general to have a great scoring game like that when you have another walking bucket on the team with Jakorie Smith who had 31 points in the game?

It is definitely not easy especially since Jakorie is our main focal point when it comes to scoring the ball, but he is an unselfish player that allows me to also go when he notices that I’m rolling and vice versa.

The team had 13 assists not counting your 7. Was there a lot of isolation from your part?

Yes, there were several matchups that we were specifically hunting due to some players struggling to guard my speed, so we were looking for isolations against those players.

Did you know in the fourth quarter that you were close to 50 points?

I noticed when it was like a minute left in the game, but at that point I was focused on securing the win because there has been games where we blew the lead down the stretch so I was heavily focused on making winning plays.

You saw Jakorie Smith hit for 50 and you had 45. Does that give you extra motivation to go the extra mile and shoot for 50 points in the future?

Not at all. The way I ended up scoring 45 points was due to just how the flow of the game was going. Jakorie is our primary option, so I do not look at him as competition, I just try to compliment him as best as I can and if I happen to be rolling that game then so be it.

What was your favorite own basket of the game?

Probably when I attacked a switch in the second half on the right wing and hit an isolation side step three-point jump shot.

Did you get any special congrats after the win on social media?

Yes, a lot of my friends and supporters from back home congratulated me.

Did you have to get donuts for the teammates?

Not at all.

Thanks Aytor for the chat.

The Bamberg Baskets Throttle The Skyliners As Demarcus Demonia Leads Them To The 84-61 Victory

After the long Fiba break, the Frankfurt Skyliners were hoping to come back and get back on the winning side of things and did with a spirited victor on the road against 2025 easyCredit BBL cup winner Weissenfels. It is never easy to win there as it is a smaller type of arena where the fans seem to be on top of you. Frankfurt stopped their three game losing streak and returned back to their living room where they hadn´t won since January 10th where Isaiah Swope gave fans a buzzer beater to remember. They had lost their last 3 games at home and basketball life didn´t get any easier without Jaedon LeDee and Bamberg who rolled into Frankfurt having recently won the easyCredit BBL cup. They were a playoff team if the playoffs began today and had won 7 of their last 8 BBL games plus won the 2026 cup in great fashion in Munich. This was a tough battle for the Frankfurt Skyliners as they wanted to keep their fight for the playoffs alive. They began the game flat and for 40 minutes had to climb a steep mountain, but never got over the hump as the Bamberg Baskets played with structure and discipline smothering the Skyliners 84-61. “We played aggressive and took nothing for granted. We moved the ball well and had 16 assists by half time. We played aggressive on defense and didn´t let them play their game. We stuck together and had good chemistry. We had each others backs”, stressed Bamberg guard Demarcus Demonia (201-G/F-1999, college: ETAMU). The Skyliners never found a good offensive rhythm and couldn´t produce that game changing run that could have made their lives easier. “We got away from our principles. We gave up way too many open three´s, could execute our offense and allowed too many offensive rebounds”, stressed new Skyliner Jacob Holt.

Daniel Keppler with the dunk

Bamberg jumped all over Frankfurt from the gun taking a rapid 7-0 lead as ex Louisiana Tech (NCAA) guard Cobe Williams produced 5 points and ex Bayreuth (Pro A) guard Demarcus Demonia made a lay in. “Williams is so important for us. We feed off him. He is the head of the snake”, warned Demarcus Demonia. Bamberg had the right energy from the start and displayed great offensive structure that they carried to the end of the game while the Skyliners were lethargic and sluggish as if they had just gotten out of bed. Bamberg stopped their first 5 possession as the Skyliners couldn´t match Bamberg´s intensity or physicality. Frankfurt finally got on the board finding some luck from outside as ex St Johns (NCAA) guard Nahiem Alleyne and German Radii Casin dropped three´s to trail 8-6. However Bamberg continued to execute at ease and preferred the outside shot as Czech Republic player Richard Baliant and Demonia hit for the 14-6 advantage. Frankfurt stayed in the game mainly due to ex St Louis (NCAA) guard Isaiah Swope´s first class isolation play as he dropped 2 buckets in the paint making amends for his 2 early turnovers. Alleyne also dropped another trey, but Bamberg led 18-13. Demonia had the hot hand early and dropped another trey as the Bamberg Baskets led 23-15 after 10 minutes. “It was really vital for us that we wanted to set the tone right away. We let them lead by 20 points at our place, so we came out aggressive of defense that led to easy baskets”, stated Demarcus Demonia. The Bamberg Baskets shot 53% from the field and 50% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 2 turnovers while the Skyliners shot 33% from the field and 33% from outside and had 12 rebounds and 2 turnovers.

Austin Crowley at the FT line

In the second quarter there was no drop off from Bamberg as they continued to execute well on offense and gave the Skyliners problems finding a rhythm as they comfortably 46-29 at the break. Bamberg had 2 pretty buckets in the first two minutes as Williams made a difficult off balance shot while the American then unleashed a perfect bounce pass to the cutter Demonia who finished with a big dunk back door and 27-17 lead. Frankfurt punched back with another clutch trey from Casin and a lay in by ex Bonn center Till Pape, but Bamberg led 29-22. However the Skyliners minimal comeback attempt didn´t stress Bamberg as they always had an answer and went on a big 14-5 run that gave them the 43-27 lead. In the run, Bamberg´s potent guard rotation made big shots as Demonia added 5 points including a trey, ex Michigan (NCAA) guard Ibi Watson hit a three pointer, Chris Ensminger son Zac made a lay in and German big Man Daniel Keppler an easy lay in against the mismatch Logan Johnson. Bamberg continued to have the higher intensity and just hustled more at both ends as the Skyliners couldn´t match it. Defensively Bamberg didn´t allow Frankfurt any good looks and forced them more to isolation. Swope added a nifty reverse lay up while Balint hit a three pointer to end the first half. The Bamberg Baskets shot 57% from the field and 47% from the three point line and had 18 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Skyliners shot 33% from the field and 33% from the three point line and had 18 rebounds and 9 turnovers. “We continued our strong energy and carried it over from the first quarter into the second quarter. We knew they were a good team so we remained aggressive and stuck together and continued to carry a good lead”, stated Demarcus Demonia.

Ryan Hawkins from outside

The Bamberg Baskets continued to manage the lead well in the third quarter and led by as much as 23 points. Bamberg started quickly again going on a 9-3 run to extend their lead to 55-32. In the run, the guests got key support from Watson who added 5 points including a trey and 206cm center Ejiofor Enu who was mega aggressive on the offensive glass with a tip in and massive dunk where he had an open lane from deep behind the three point line up to the rim. “I saw the dunk, but not his drive as I had my back turned. He is always aggressive and plays to his strengths. He protects the rim well and always gives us energy”, expressed Demarcus Demonia. Bamberg continued to have superb structure and used the mismatches to their advantage. Frankfurt responded with a mini 4-0 run as athletic guards Swope and logan Johnson scored lay in´s as Frankfurt trailed 55-36. After a Onu free throw, Frankfurt responded well with a trey from ex Artland guard Will Christmas, but they just couldn´t find any consistency as they would get silly turnovers with risky passes with 20 points down. Both teams continued to trade baskets as the Skyliners were unable to string along stops. Alleyne and ex University of Mississippi guard Austin Crowley traded three´s, but Frankfurt still trailed 62-42. After Johnson hit free throws, Bamberg´s strong spacing was rewarded with a Watson trey and Pape then closed out the third quarter with an old school hook shot as Bamberg led 65-46. “Coach Gavel told us at half-time to keep moving the ball. We had done a good job with that in the first half with 16 assists. We did a good job breaking them down at both ends”, commented Demarcus Demonia. “We weren´t able to move the ball and had too many turnovers and forced shots”, added Garai Zeeb.

Logan Johnson at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the Bamberg Baskets continued to play their game while the Skyliners remained harmless and couldn´t produce that big run to change the game. Bamberg remained aggressive and executed while the Skyliners didn´t help their comeback missing free throws as Jacob Holt missed 2. At the end of 40 minutes, Frankfurt had a pathetic 52% from the free throw line. Frankfurt also continued not to move the ball well and were forced into 1-1 play. Bamberg received buckets from Williams and Demonia while Skyliners head coach Klaus Perwas inserted 2 youth players with Ivan Crnjac who played his 2nd BBL game while Jamie Edoka played his 6th BBL game. This season the massive German prospect has only amassed 2 BBL games. German veteran Moses Poelking also celebrated his BBL debut and finished with 2 rebounds. “Making my debut today was unbelievable. When I think about how much I have gone through with my injury. This was a big step in my career. I´m extremely thankful”, stressed Moses Poelking. Bamberg head coach Anton Gavel didn´t hesitate either inserting his youth with Pro B Coburg double license players Finn Doentgens and Nico Hollerl as well as German veteran Moritz Krimmer. The game was long decided. Krimmer hit a trey while Doentgens a lay in and Hollerl free throws and Jamie Edoka scored 3 free throws. “I´m really proud that we finished the game strong. We had many games this season where we couldn´t hold the lead. We have more structure now and stay together”, warned Demarcus Demonia. “We tried to punch back, but they remained aggressive. We couldn´t make that run that we needed to come back”, said Garai Zeeb. The Bamberg Baskets were led by Demarcus Demonia with 20 points while Ibi Watson added 15 points, 8 rebounds and 7 dimes while the Skyliners were led by Till Pape with 13 points while Isaiah Swope had 10 points. Bamberg shot 47% from the field and 36% from outside and had 41 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Skyliners shot 33% from the field and 36% from outside and had 37 rebounds and 15 turnovers.

Playmaker Kaan Kus(Baskets Limburg) Is Always Working On His Shot Because He Takes So Little Therefore Always Wants To Make Them

Kaan Kus (178-PG-1993) is a 33 year old 178cm guard playing for the Baskets Limburg. He has played with this club most of his life. He also has garnered experience with teams like TV Idstein and BC Wiesbaden. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

After almost 15 years of covering the Baskets Limburg, I finally can interview you. Sorry for the long wait.

Oh that’s ok. Thanks for thinking of me.

You have been wearing a Limburg jersey for the longest time. What does it mean for you to wear this jersey?

Limburg is my home town. I play with so much love for this club. I have played for some other teams, but none ever felt like it does playing for Limburg.

What has been your summary of the season? The Baskets Limburg have been solid but not great?

Our goal this season wasn´t to move up. We have new management with Justin Stallbohm, Berkant Campinar and myself. Our motto this season was to develop the youth. We had 8 guys form Limburg. We still had a successful season. Our goal for the next years is to keep developing the youth.

What has it been like being teammates with Myles Howell? Where would you rate his poster dunk recently?

He is a young athletic player that is always good spirited. I have seen many great dunks in my life, but his is at the top.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 178 cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? Is Marcus Smart a good choice?

Yes Marcus Smart is correct.

Talk about your strengths as a player? You have never been much of a scorer, but what other aspects make you shine?

That is true that I have never been a scorer. I´m a playmaker that brings calmness to the court. I do things that don´t pop up on the stat sheet. I bring a lot of energy to the game with my defense. I keep the team together and enjoy defending the other team´s best player.

Talk about your defensive game. Do you model your game after Marcus Smart on defense?

Yes I try to model my game after him. I´m a very nasty defender that likes to get under the skin of my opponent. I would never want to play against myself. I will get on opponent´s nerves and am able to defend bigger players.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now?

I love to create for my teammates and don´t take many shots. Because of that, I´m always working on my shot, because with less shots that I take, I want to always make them.

How has your game developed over the years under Danny Stallbohm? What have you appreciated most about his coaching?

I like how he gives us freedom and just let´s us go out and play our game. If you deliver then you get minutes. He had been more offensive minded in the past, but now had become more defensive minded.

One of your best friends is Justin Stallbohm. Does he have the most incredible smile ever?

Justin is a sweet guy. He has a great smile. His smile puts smiles on the faces of others.

How has he helped you be a better player over the years?

We talk together a lot. We have been teammates on the court for many years. We are always helping each other on the court with tips. We have helped each other mentally to help each other get to the next level.

What is your fondest memory with Justin Stallbohm on the court?

My fondest moment with Justin happened in our youth in the U-20 Oberliga. We won the Hessen U-20 title.

You played a season with the incredible Kris Douse. What memories will you always have of him?

He was an energizer and a great scorer. He was a super teammate and everyone liked him. It didn´t matter if you were young or old or a great player or not, he always tried to make everyone better.

You were also teammates with Kevin Yebo. He went from the Regionalliga to the Euroleague. Did you already see his talent 10 years ago?

I saw that he was a raw diamond right away. But I had no idea that he could get to the BBL or Euroleague then. You saw right away that he had things that you couldn´t learn. He had that special athleticism and anticipation that you can´t learn. I´m still in contact with him today.

Your coolest Mantas Bernatavicius story?

He was a phenomenon. He was one of our most important players even if he was never a scorer. He did such vital things like setting great blocks and being our anchor on defense. No player wanted to drive to the rim. He was so physical.

I remember in 2015 watching a young Isaac Bonga play in Limburg with Koblenz. What memories do you have of him in that game?

I remember that game with Bonga well. We all knew how talented he was. He was 3 heads bigger than me. He did a shifty spin move around me for the lay up.

What was your fondest moment on the court with a Limburg jersey?

In my early years my fondest moment was when we went from the Regionalliga 2 to Regionalliga beating Kronberg with a buzzer beater.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced on the court?

Matej Kljaic. You can´t defend him on the pick and roll.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Justin Stallbohm, Berkant Campinar, Max Mattel, Kevin Yebo, Melvin Adrovic

Please name your NBA and German Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Kawhi Leonard, Derrick Rose

Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder, Pascal Roller, Per Guenther

Who is your Goat?

Lebron James

Thanks Kaan for the chat.

Haris Hujic’s Early Hot Shooting Maims The EPG Baskets Koblenz Mentally As The RheinStars Win 113-96 Shoot Out

After the massive home win over the SBB Baskets, the EPG Baskets didn´t have to have the pressure and stress to follow it up again soon after, simply because the Fiba Break was in the way. This allowed the EPG Baskets Koblenz who had lost 5 of their last 7 games to recharge their batteries and focus on the game plan ahead. With only 1 win away from the playoff spots, the team had 2 must wins in the next 3 games against the RheinStars and Paderborn, but didn´t have a cake walk with Cologne, because they were in 12th place and also in striking range of the playoffs. The RheinStars arrived into the game having won 2 of their last 3 games and had also lost 2 bitter nail bitters to Paderborn and Bremerhaven. Koblenz had to be wide awake for this next tough challenge and as usual played well for a half, but couldn´t keep up with the RheinStars who kept the pressure on and averaged 30 points in the first 3 quarters to secure the 113-96 shoot out win over the EPG Baskets Koblenz. “It was an offensive fire works from both teams. It was a physical game where we had to hit a lot of tough shots. We were well prepared and were able to match the physicality and were carried by vital Hujic shots”, stressed ex Frankfurt Skyliner Maxi Begue. The EPG Baskets Koblenz had another dismal defensive performance and proved that even when they have a strong offensive game, it isn´t always enough to pull out a victory. “Defense was a problem tonight. Our pick and roll defense was bad. Our 1-1 defense wasn´t good either. They moved the ball the way that they wanted to. We simply had no control on defense”, stressed EPG Baskets Koblenz guard Aleksa Kovacevic.

Julian Larry from downtown

The EPG Baskets Koblenz were complete and had a solid start as their offense found a good rhythm right away. The ball movement was strong which led to 5 points by Ohio native Tim Smith Jr and 5 points by ex G-League player DJ Jeffries who had a trey and dunk for the quick 11-6 lead. On the pretty dunk by Jeffries, Calvin Wishart who is known for his overall stellar play especially his scoring also displayed his passing in his bag of tricks. He unleashed a pretty over the head pass in Larry Bird manner. “That was a strong pass. It looked like Larry Bird”, smiled EPG Baskets Koblenz sport director Thomas Klein. Koblenz played fast which the RheinStars couldn´t match early and didn´t allow second chances. Their defense was solid and they continued to execute at ease on offense getting baskets from Wishart and a trey by 2018 NBBL champion Badu Buck for the 21-12 Koblenz lead. Everything was working for Koblenz, but then came the turning point of the game where one player maimed the EPG Baskets mentality with Haris Hujic (193-SG-1997, agency: LUMANI 10.7). He scored 11 unanswered points as suddenly the RheinStars led 23-21. “We began slow. I hit some big three´s and woke my boys up. Then we executed our game plan the way we wanted to”, stressed Haris Hujic. Often in the past when one opponent gets hot, it has hurt Koblenz´s mentality to where they totally switch off all engines. “When one guy gets hot, we have to be able to stop other guys. We couldn´t do that through the course of the game”, warned Tim Smith Jr. Koblenz stopped the run and then got some three´s from ex Munster guard Julian Larry and from Buck again to lead 29-28 after 10 minutes. “We saw a wild west show at both ends of the court from us. When you know what a Hujic is capable of doing, you can´t let him get off like that”, stressed Thomas Klein.

Haris Hujic at the FT line

In the second quarter the RheinStars Cologne continued to execute with ease while there were 8 lead changes and the EPG Baskets Koblenz stayed with the guests, but then Haris Hujic got going again and Koblenz mentally shit off again and allowed the guests to take total control of the game. Ex easyCredit BBL player Aleksa Kovacevic carried the EPG Baskets in the first minutes with timely scoring as he added 10 points, but that didn´t faze the RheinStars as they continued to execute well and had no lapses. They got good support from their bench with German Jasper Gunether made a lay in, German Bjoern Rohwer made a last second desperation shot before the shot clock buzzer with a trey and ex Kirchheim guard Mike Miller made a fade away jumper as the game was deadlocked at 43-43. Then once again came Haris Hujic on to the stage and just destroyed Koblenz with 9 unanswered points with 3 three´s as the RheinStars led 53-43. The guests controlled the boards a lot better in the second quarter and had 8 offensive rebounds at the break. They also took good care of the ball with only 4 turnovers. They got good rebounding and scoring from French forward Kenny Baptiste with free throws and a jumper by Miller as the RheinStars led 59-47 at halftime. “We lost control of the game after Hujic´s hot shooting. We weren´t focused anymore and had no positive body language”, stated Thomas Klein.

Calvin Wishart at the FT line

The RheinStars continued pouring it on in the third quarter as their offensive execution continued, but defensively the EPG Baskets Koblenz had little to offer. “You have to give credit to the RheinStars in that they played well, but we let them play well”, said Thomas Klein. The RheinStars Cologne knew where Koblenz´s weak spot was and attacked it getting easy baskets inside by Miller, Baptiste, Rohwer (dunk) and a floater by Hujic to preserve the healthy lead. Koblenz got some three´s by Tim Smith Jr, but couldn´t gain any real ground as they trailed 71-57. The EPG Baskets continued to execute well getting some lay in´s by Minnesota native Calvin Wishart and from German Jonas Niedermanner to trail 76-64, but all in all, they were always a step slower on the rebound and on the closeout. The guests just continued to execute at ease and then also stepped up their defense a notch as they went on a lethal 13-5 run to close out the third quarter and have the commanding 91-69 advantage after 30 minutes. In the run, the guests received great support from scoring ace Cedrick Russell who played at Ohio State (NCAA) with 7 points while solid bench player Nate Watson who balled at Longwood College (NCAA) added 5 points in the romp. “We wanted to come into the third quarter and keep the momentum and bring the same energy form the second quarter and did. We motivated each other and had more energy”, stated Maxi Begue. “We weren´t focused and couldn´t generate stops. I feel like compared to other games, we did force them to tough shots. Hujic made some contested shots”, added Tim Smith Jr.

Bjoern Rohwer with the dunk

In the fourth quarter the EPG Baskets scored 27 points, but couldn´t get a miracle on the defensive end as they allowed 22 points and got the loss. The EPG Baskets actually had a good start in the last frame going on a 11-5 run. One felt that they had more energy and the body language was better. Koblenz got hot from outside as Larry nailed 2 three´s and Wishart another as they trailed 96-80. However the RheinStars began to execute better again especially attacking the rim as Miller scored twice while the EPG Baskets Koblenz went the 1-1 route on offense as there was no structure in their game. Smith and ex Oldenburg center Marko Bacak connected for three´s, but the uphill climb was still so great at 105-86 and time was elapsing rapidly. Smith continued to leave his heart on the court as he connected on 5 more points, but they still trailed 111-92. Ex Skyliner Begue got some garbage points at the end to finish with 8 points in 15 minutes. The RheinStars had the big lead and the win in hand, so sthey hut down their machine a bit in crunch-time allowing the result at the end to look a bit more respectable. “We still had to be awake, because they are a dangerous team. They fought hard, but we finished the game strong”, stressed Maxi Begue. “We had no structure and were down 20 points. We tried to get something going, but couldn´t”, stressed Tim Smith Jr. The RheinStars Cologne presented 5 guys in double figures and were led by Haris Hujic with 26 points. Michael Miller added 19 points and Cedrick Russell 18 points while the EPG Baskets Koblenz also had 5 guys score in double figures led by Tim Smith Jr with 23 points while Aleksa Kovacevic added 16 points and Calvin Wishart 15 points. The RheinStars Cologne shot 56% from the field and 52% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 10 turnovers while the EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 46% from the field and 46% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 11 turnovers.