It Was Only Logical that Fin Borczanowski’s First Alba Berlin Bucket Would Be His Bread And Butter Drive Against Basketball Champions League Team Igokea

Pic Credit: Flotograf

Getting those first first league or international competition minutes is always a massive joy for a young German player. Some guys get those first BBL minutes very young as Roy Krupnikas was 15 while ex NBA player Isaac Bonga was 16 years old and current University of Arizona (NCAA) guard Ivan Kharchenkov was 16 years old, one month and 30 days old. Bonga hit a trey in his first game against Ludwigsburg in a 65-63 win a decade ago while Kharchenkov scored 5 points in 4 minutes in his BBL debut in a victory over Weissenfels in 2022. Some guys have all the luck and score in their first game while others don´t. Recently it was time again for a young German player to absorb those first pro minutes. For Alba Berlin double license player Fin Borczanowski (204-F-2008) who also plays for their Pro B farm team Lok Bernau, it was a magical moment as he also was able to taste that feeling what it is like to get those first pro minutes and bucket. But his basket was a little different than that of Bonga and Kharchenkov in that he did it in an international competition match and not an easyCredit BBL game. Was it any more or less special that he achieved it in a Basketball Champions League game? “No there was no difference. I think the fans and atmosphere is the same. There was no big difference for me. It didn´t make me more happy that I did it in the BCL. I mean it was cool scoring my first points in the BCL, but it would also have been cool doing it in a BBL game”, stressed Fin Borczanowski. He is still waiting for his first BBL minutes and points. Alba Berlin came into the BCL game reeling off a tough loss against rising BBL team Trier. Alba Berlin played a lot better winning the rebound duel and taking better care of the ball while also being more efficient in the 2 point area. “This win was really important for us. We didn´t want to have a longer losing streak. We did a good job sticking to the game plan and carrying out what we did in practice into the game. The win was good for our confidence”, stated Fin Borczanowski. Alba Berlin is now 2-0 in BCL play and want to keep that winning momentum high in that competition. “We have to stick together and continue to play together. We have to also defend well. If we can keep up our pressure then we can stop many teams”, warned Fin Borczanowski.

Fin Borczanowski was sitting on the bench following the game when head coach Pedro Calles signaled for him to come into the game. For the German a dream was about to come true. He must have had some crazy thoughts just before entering the court. “I was excited and a little nervous, but when I got on the floor that was all gone. I was very happy I got in. I didn´t think that I would play. I was proud of myself that I was finally playing my first pro game. I just put away and nervous thoughts and played”, commented Fin Borczanowski. He stepped on the court and began playing, but seeing all those fans has to be overwhelming? “Yes it is. But I just set forth to give 100% and block everything out”, said Fin Borchanowki. Then came the extra big moment for the big foreward. He had played his first minutes, but his first points would also come. It was only logical that he would score his first pro points with his bread and butter the drive. It was a great play as he drove by 208cm center Djordje Topolovic. “The drive is my biggest strength. My first step and athleticism is also a big strength of mine. Jack Kayil took a trey and we got the offensive rebound. We then displayed some good ball movement and we ran the pick and roll. They switched the slower big man on me and I got by him and scored”, said Fin Borczanowski. His first minutes and points is something that he will never forget. “Being able to play and score my first pro points was really nice. It made me very happy. I watched so many Alba games as a kid and now here I was playing for Alba Berlin”, expressed Fin Borczanowski. Did he get many congratulatory messages and even perhaps some unexpected ones? “I got a lot of messages. Old coaches wrote me congratulating me which was nice. I didn´t get any unexpected messages from anyone”, added Fin Borczanowski.

This season the young German is also playing with farm team Lok Bernau and has made massive strides with them so far. Last season he played 8 games averaging 3.6ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.0apg while averaging 10 minutes while this season his minutes have risen to 28,3 and he is averaging 16,0ppg, 5,7rpg, 2,7apg, 2,3spg and 1,3bpg, He has really become a reliable player that can fill the stat sheet with ease. ”My goal this season with Lok Bernau is that I want the team to play well and that we have to stay faithful to our fast style. I want to stay aggressive and be able to score and play good defense”, warned Fin Borchanoowski. After feeling that first pro experience, it is only obvious that he wants to feel that kind of atmosphere again, but it won´t be a cake walk to earn minutes for Alba Berlin. “It is hard to earn minutes, but I feel like Alba Berlin does a great job helping young players develop and just have trust in us young players”, stated Fin Borczanowski. Has the young German found a mentor with Alba Berlin. Maybe a player like Brandon Angel? “No he isn´t. But he is a really nice guy”, said Fin Borczanowski who believes that he would win 11-9 in a one on one battle against him in practice- How about the two German veterans Jonas Mattissek or Malte Delow. Are they mentors for him? “Jonas is a very important player of Alba Berlin. He is always bringing the spirit up”, warned Fin Borczanowski. It will be interesting to see how Fin Borczanowski will continue to develop his game and who knows perhaps he will achieve his first easyCredit BBL minutes in the cup game clash against Bamberg on Monday?

The Miles Vs D´monte Brown Basketball Conversation Volume 2

D’Monte Brown (193-G-2000, college: Langston) is a 193cm guard from Petersburg, Virginia who is playing his first Pro B season in Germany with the Fellbach Flashers, He played his second season overseas with Culture City Weimar helping them move up to the Pro B. He played his rookie season overseas with the BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 24,6ppg, 11,2rpg, 3,8apg, 2,9spg and 1,0bpg. He began his basketball career at Petersburg High School. He then played at 3 schools starting with Garrett College (JUCO) averaging 13.5ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 90.2% and 20.6ppg, 8.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 80.9%. He then played a season at Miami Dade College (JUCO) averaging 16.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 82.7% and then played 2 years at Langston University, OK (NAIIA) averaging 11.5ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 74.0% and 9.8ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 75.0%. He teams up with germanhoops.com to talk basketball every week and bring insight to his overseas journey.

When I checked the Fellbach-Reutlingen box score after watching Frankurt nip Rhondorf, I was shocked you lost 92-70. Were you shocked as well?

Not Really. I feel like we need to lose to see how it feels as well as knowing what to work on. The best teams respond with high level and learn from their mistakes.

Reutlingen is a new team. Did Fellbach possibly underestimate them?

Absolutely. Every team is good. You have to be prepared to be able to come out and play hard. The toughest team is always going to win regardless of what happens.

After a high scoring first quarter where you led 25-23, Fellbach then caved in losing the second quarter 27-9. Reutlingen went on a major run and let it rain three´s, but also scored at will from the near area. Why did the Fellbach defense cave in?

We have to do more at becoming a better defensive team.

Fellbach were unable to come out strong in the third quarter. The offense got to the free throw line, but it was all to little. Fellbach didn´t get their first field goal of the quarter until the 1,25 minute mark. Fellbach trailed 70-49. Was the second quarter too much in your heads in the third quarter?

I think that it was tough. It was our first road game. We stopped attacking the basket.

The game was decided after 30 minutes. Did Fellbach have the same mentality in the fourth quarter. Fellbach scored better, but couldn´t get stops.

We stopped fighting. We needed this loss to become a better team.

This game was a wake up call. What did the team learn from the loss that they will have to do better against Rhondorf?

We have to play better defense and stay more disciplined. We also have to trust each other more. This loss should make us very hungry and respond in a positive way.

You had a solid 14/3/2/4 game and shot 67% form the field. But had 5 turnovers. How do you react after a game like this with that stat line in preparation for the next opponent?

I have to be better. I have to find a way in every situation like defending and rebounding and overall bring more to the table.

Fellbach next face Rhondorf who feel apart in the fourth quarter letting Frankfurt cruise to the win. What will be key for the win?

We just have to be us and play our basketball. Despite being on the road, we have to find way how to be comfortable and take care of business.

Thanks D´monte for the chat.

Niklas Pons(TV Langen) Doesn´t Worry About His Stats Much As Winning And Being Happy With His Teammates Is So Much More Valuable To Him

Pic Credit: Marina Schwarz

Niklas Pons (193-SG-1999) is a 27 year old 192cm guard that is playing his ninth season with TV Langen and last season averaged 11.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 5.3apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 63.5%. In the 2024-2025 season he averaged 12/3/5/1 and helped win the South West Regionalliga title. He also played 3 seasons with the Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors and was a member of the U-16 youth national team. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big win over the Basketball Lowen Erfurt.

Congrats on the big win over the Basketball Lowen Erfurt. How big was this win after the first win against Munich.

That win gave us a lot of self confidence. Last season we started at 0-6 and this season has been different. We have realized it is different this season in that we can win. There was extra motivation the last games with Kventin playing against his ex team Munich and Noah against Erfurt. Carlos Hidalgo will play against his old team Speyer tomorrow.

The team is very different. It lost key guys like Paul Albrecht, Noah Kamdem and Musa Abra. Are they missing some pieces that will help them get over the hump?

Their import player was missing. I think that when he is back, they will be stronger. They just haven´t found themselves yet. But they also showed that they could play us strong. We didn´t destroy them.

Did you feel like the game was extra special for Noah Kamdem that played 4 seasons there? He told me it was just another game for him.

I think he had extra motivation. He always wants to win and I think that he wanted to prove to them that he has continued to develop.

He had a big 18/15 game. Could this be his most productive season especially having so many unselfish teammates?

I hope so. I would wish that for him. He always plays for the team. He sets great blocks, has good play in the post, rebounds well and is very vocal. Everything is fitting with him.

Why isn´t he a Pro A player? I never understood that?

I don´t know. For me he is a player that could play in the Pro A. He is dominating in the Pro B at the moment. He was player of the week and if he continues his good play, then he could be player of the month.

How good does it always feel winning a game where you almost always led?

It is great. It tells you that the team is doing something correct. It is always more difficult for the team coming back, because they have to invest more. We could play more free with less pressure.

With what kind of game plan did you go into the game? Erfurt was 1-2. You definitely didn´t underestimate them.

We didn´t underestimate them. They are a tough team and had won a close game against Ludwigsburg. We knew going in that they like using their guard play. We wanted to slow them down more, but at the same time have a good mix adding transition play.

TV Langen led 19-10 after a quarter. You had 7 points. Your first goal isn´t really scoring. Did you just take what the defense gave you?

Yes I did. I try to take over when my team isn´t scoring.

TV Langen set the tone in the second quarter with a 5-0 run. How valuable was it getting stops right away and showing who was in command?

It is always better to have that first run. That allows you to handle an opponent´s a run a lot better. It is just more stressful having to always to come back.

Erfurt went on their first run of the game in the last minutes to trail only 32-30 at the break. What did TV Langen get away from allowing them to get very close again?

We just didn´t hit shots despite getting good looks. We got out or rhythm.

The third quarter showed runs from both teams, but you still led 50-42 after 30 minutes. What did head coach Tobias Jahn tell the team for the fourth quarter?

Coach Tobias told us just to keep doing what we were doing well through the course of the game. That was keep the intensity up, gets guys in good position and to keep playing as a team. We communicated better on ghost screens.

Cooper Creek began the fourth quarter with a 5-0 run. How vital is his play for the team and what do you like most about his game?

He is one of our leaders and a great communicator. He also is a really good defender. He is always jumping all over the place. He hasn´t found his scoring touch yet. He has really long arms. People underestimate that.

TV Langen closed out the game very well never letting up. What was the team´s biggest strength on this night?

Not giving up more than 70 points in the last 3 games.

The team is 2-1. Could the playoffs be realistic this season?

The playoffs are a goal like any other year. I think that if we keep playing well, then it could happen. But before that we have to remain in the league. The Pro B south has gotten a lot stronger the last years.

You had a solid 13/3/2/2 game. How happy were you with your performance? You haven´t found your shot yet?

I haven´t found my shot yet. I´m most happy when we play well together and win as a team. My stats are not as important, but more when we win and are happy together is most valuable to me.

Winning is always the goal, but what is your goal this season with your game?

I want to be the leader of the team and help the young players on the team get adjusted well with the league and help them develop further and help win games.

You next face weak team Speyer. What will be key for the win?

We have to play good team defense. They have many good individual players and imports. If we can solve solutions, then we will have good cards to win.

Thanks Niklas for the win.

Noah Kamden Has Found A New Home With TV Langen As All Are Burning For Success

Pic credit: Marina Schwarz

Noah Kamdem (198-C-1998) is a 28 year old 198cm center that is playing his 13th season and first with Pro B team TV Langen. He played the last 4 seasons with the CATL Basketball Loewen Erfurt (ProB). Last season he averaged 13.8ppg, Reb-5 (8.6rpg), 1.7apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 73.7% He has been a real basketball traveler in Germany having played with Troster Breitengussbach, Nurnberg, Herzogenaurach, Team Ehingen, Rolstock, PS Karlsruhe, Schwenningen, Coburg, Frankfurt and Elchingen. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 71-63 win over his ex team Erfurt

Congrats on the big win over the Basketball Lowen Erfurt. With what kind of emotions did you go into the game playing your ex team?

It wasn´t difficult. For me it was just like any other game. I want to win and that wasn´t always the case in Erfurt. We were only one season at the top. We were mostly in the middle.

The team is very different. It lost key guys like Paul Albrecht, You and Musa Abra. Are they missing some pieces that will help them get over the hump?

Their import is injured. With him they are a lot better. They still need to find themselves. They force a lot. They have to define their roles more. They took many crazy shots. We made the same mistake in the first game, but against Munich everything clicked for us. We like to share the ball. It is always better making extra passes than just one to get in a flow.

How good does it always feel winning a game where you never trailed?

It was super. This game was a lot of fun to play.

With what kind of game plan did you go into the game? Erfurt was 1-2. You definitely didn´t underestimate them.

We wanted to go into the game and play very hard from the jump ball. There is a big difference this season to when I was with Erfurt. We really go hard in practice with TV Langen and that wasn´t the same in Erfurt. If you practice hard in practice then it shows in games.

TV Langen led 19-10 after a quarter. You and Niklas Pons had 7 points a piece. How special is Pons as a player? He had a triple double last season.

It is great to play with him, but also with Carlos Hidalgo. They both move the ball, but also like to do it. They don´t force anything. They really help me be able to score. It is a lot of fun playing with them.

TV Langen set the tone in the second quarter with a 5-0 run. How valuable was it getting stops right away and showing who was in command?

That is really important. In Erfurt we always had our bad third quarter. It obviously helps if you set the tone right away in a game. You shouldn´t go out and play relaxed. You always have to go at the opponent right away.

Erfurt went on their first run of the game in the last minutes to trail only 32-30 at the break. What did TV Langen get away from allowing them to get very close again?

We played too soft.

Why do teams give up runs after having their own run?

Runs are part of the game. I mean when your up 10 points, you naturally tend to relax. Thinking the win will come is present. You have to always play hard and never give up. We play at the Pro B level and runs happen frequently. That won´t happen in higher levels.

The third quarter showed runs from both teams, but you still led 50-42 after 30 minutes. What did head coach Tobias Jahn tell the team for the fourth quarter?

We had to finish the game strong and rebound better and play with a strong will.

Cooper Creek began the fourth quarter with a 5-0 run. How vital is his play for the team and what do you like most about his game?

I think that his two biggest assets is his shooting and hustle. He is a really good shooter. He also has a really good mid range shot. He will make 40-45 shots on 50 shots on the shooting machine. He hit a lot of tough contested shots. We have to create better spacing so he can get more consistency with open looks. He is also a winner having winning records the last seasons. He also played a lot. He played in the UK and then down under and now he is with us. He played like 50 games last season. He is also a really nice guy. He is a real team player. He doesn´t look at stats, but only concerned about winning.

TV Langen closed out the game very well never letting up. What was the team´s biggest strength on this night?

How do you get fun. Working hard isn´t always fun, but the goal is fun. When we get stops, we burn for it. I remember when I blocked Anthony Watkins, all were on fire on the bench and cheering. We burn as a team. Our defense and will makes us strong. We play with heart and give our all in practice. That is beautiful.

You already had your double double in the third quarter and finished with a 20/15 game. How happy were you with your performance.

It was Ok. The double double makes me happy. I missed too many shots though. I could have had 30 points. Then I would have been happy. I have played much too long in the Pro B. That isn´t my last stop.

Your averaging 18/11 in your first 3 games. Could this be your best season ever?

Yes it could be. I don´t want to revel too much now. I get so much trust from my teammates and coaches. Having so many unselfish teammates will only help my game.

You next face weak team Speyer. What will be key for the win?

We can´t underestimate them. Cooper Creek and I watched 1,5 quarters of their game against Leverkusen. They didn´t make it easy for Leverkusen. Speyer was present. They have many imports and legend DJ Woodmore. We will play our usual game which is paly hard with good aggressive on ball defense.

Thanks Noah for the chat.

Maxi Peters Has Pro B Break Out Game Leading The Skyliners Juniors To Wild 73-70 4th Quarter Come Back Win Over The Dragons Rhondorf

The Skyliners Juniors had a long wait to finally play their first home game. The Pro B season began September 26th and now on October 15th, the Skyliners Juniors battled 2-1 team Dragons Rhondorf. Frankfurt returned home and were searching for their first win of the season. 3 days ago they had lost a tough game on the road in overtime against top Pro B team Fellbach Flashers. The Dragons Rhondorf were also coming off a tough home loss to BG Hessing Leitershofen. On a rare Wednesday night game, It looked like after 30 minutes that the Dragons Rhondorf would walk home with the easy win, but they were shocked in the fourth quarter allowing a brutal 14-1 run which allowed Frankfurt to tie the game and then take the lead and win 73-70. “I thought that we had a pretty solid first half. We just didn´t have that extra on the rebounds. We had good looks, but the shots just weren´t falling. We shot too many three´s and not enough two pointers. In the second half, we stepped up our defense and got that extra push with our transition game. We showed that special fighting mentality again what we showed in Fellbach. Only this time we were rewarded with a win”, smiled Maximilian Peters (205-F-2007). The win was also the Pro B break out game of young 19 year old German Maximilian Peters who had 21 points and hit clutch shots inside and out all throughout the game. “I´m relieved how I played. I played Ok in Weimar, but didn´t play well in Fellbach. This game did a lot for my confidence. I know now that I can play in the Pro B”, warned Maximilian Peters. The Dragons Rhondorf gave a way a win in 2024 when Trevian Bell hit a buzzer beater, but this time they just had a real lousy fourth quarter where they couldn´t hit the ocean. “We played well for 3 quarters where we showed that we could dominate. That was a good preparation for Fellbach. We moved the ball really well and played together as a team. They were able to really step up their energy in the fourth quarter and we ran out of gas”, stressed Dragon Rhondorf center Daniel Mayr.

Sahmi Willoughby at the FT line

The Skyliners Juniors really came into the game lacking some key players as Jamie Edoka was in London for a Eurocup game while Ivan Crnjac was sitting out, after sustaining an injury in Fellbach while Rhondorf was without sniper Josh Petteno. The Skyliners Juniors didn´t waste anytime jumping all over the Dragons Rhondorf scooting out on a 13-3 lead. In the run it was Maximilian Peters who showed that he was on his way to a career night adding 7 points with a trey, lay in and dunk taking over instant responsibility. Germans Leif Zentgraf added 3 points and ex Kronberg center Florian Dietrich added a lay in. Frankfurt was playing with a high intensity at both ends and playing aggressive on ball defense which Rhondorf couldn´t match. But basketball is always a game of runs and Rhondorf came out calm after the time out and punched back with a swift 9-2 run to trail 15-12. In the run the Dragons Rhondorf looked for mis matches and also banged the ball inside whenever possible feeding giant Daniel Mayr who scored twice. Mayr was out all last season and was coming back slowly with less minutes, but being raised every game. He had a solid 10/9 game in 19 minutes. German big man Benjamin Sadikovic also scored on transition and ex Essen guard Mychael Paulo contributed a trey. It was an even game now, but Frankfurt held the slight edge after 10 minutes leading 19-16. 2026 AST winner Dusan Ilic added a lay in as did ex Koblenz center Moses Poelking and Czech Republic national player Lukas Smazak. “We came in with very good energy. I think that we shocked them a bit. We allowed them to come back with giving up to easy baskets inside and gaining some turnovers”, stated Maximilian Peters. The Skyliners Juniors shot 32% from the field and 20% from outside and had 11 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 55% from the field and 33% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Dusan Nikolic on transition

In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf took control of the game outscoring Frankfurt 25-12 and leading comfortably 41-31 at the break. The Dragons Rhondorf took a little of that first quarter ending momentum into the second quarter and exploded for a lethal 21-4 run to take the 35-24 advantage. In the run, the Dragons Rhondorf played smart basketball combining aggressive play with finding the smart offensive solutions and countered with pretty inside out basketball. Paulo continued to have the hot hand dropping 2 three´s while Ohio native and ex Marietta (NCAA3) great Sahmi Willoughby was a beast on the glass and added 7 points with a trey and two lay in´s while Kenan Reinhart also scored inside as did Daniel Mayr. Frankfurt found good offensive solutions, but shots just weren´t falling. They continued to crash the boards with force and got extra possessions, but weren´t rewarded. Smazak added a trey and Dusan Nikolic a lay in, but there was no let down by the Dragons Rhondorf as they always had an answer prepared. Young German Carlo Schmid added a trey and Kenan Reinhart had the clock in view and added a lay in at the buzzer. “They hit their shots well and were more physical than us. We also had too many fouls. We had some good swings, but overall were unlucky with out execution”, added Maximilian Peters. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 47% from the field and 29% from the three point line and had 27 rebounds and 10 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 28% from the field and 15% from the three point line and had 22 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Carlo Schmid from outside

In the third quarter The Dragons Rhondorf did an exceptional job managing the lead leading by as much as 16 points and never trailing by less than 8 points and led 61-48 after 30 minutes. In the first few minutes, the Dragons Rhondorf stayed away from the three pointer and just attacked the paint area having fortune with their snake dribbling that led to a floater by Willoughby and lay in by Reinhart while not forgetting to get Mayr involved heaving up two lobs for easy lay in´s and the 49-37 lead. Frankfurt countered with Peters and Dietrich lay in´s, but couldn´t make any damage or ground. Dusan Nikolic then gave Frankfurt some energy blocking Dusan Ilic which led to a Poelking lay in. Frankfurt then exhibited their most beautiful ball movement of the night seemingly feeling like 20 passes as Poelking made the extra pass for the easy lay in by Peters as the Dragons only led 49-41. But as rapidly as Frankfurt was trying to come back, the Dragons Rhondorf remained dangerous and exploded with another lethal run of 12-1 to lead 61-43. In the run, the Dragons got 4 points from Willoughby who was a one man wrecking crew inside while Paulo scored on the drive and Sadikovic made a lay in getting the incredible Doncic like pass from Reinhart. “I really enjoy watching Kenan. He has made big steps since last season in all facets of his game. I think that Jorge Mejias gave him good passing tips”, smiled Daniel Mayr. Frankfurt stayed sharp and closed out the third quarter with a 4-0 run to stay in striking range as Poelking made a dunk and Smazak a trey to trail by 13 points. “We played our drop defense, but they did a good job finding offensive solutions with their snake dribbling”, added Maximilian Peters. “We defended well and had good ball movement, but gave up too many offensive rebounds”, said Daniel Mayr. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 47% from the field and 23% from the parking lot and had 37 rebounds and 12 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 32% from the field and 22” from the parking lot and had 31 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Lukas Smazak from the parking lot

The Dragons Rhondorf had the double digit lead going into the fourth quarter and all they had to do was play a solid quarter, but instead watched as they lost control of the game allowing a brutal 14-1 run to suddenly dead lock the game at 62-62. In the run the Skyliners Juniors just went possessions by possession and got superb support from many heads as they were super aggressive and attacked the rim getting lay in´s from Smazak, ex Neustadt forward Leif Zentgraf, Dietrich, Peters, Oniya and a trey from Peters who was a force all over the court. Rhondorf had lost their intensity on the defensive end and after giving up tough shots in the first 30 minutes now had gone too allowing easy lay in´s. The Frankfurt run continued with a Moses Poelking baby hook shot which gave Frankfurt the 64-62 advantage and the BCM was rocking. “We had more energy and we got help from the fans. They had problems with the drop defense and we stunted a lot and made it hard for their guards”, added Maximilian Peters. Ilic and David Bonning got to the free throw line, but both missed 2 free throws while Frankfurt answered with Smazak and Peters free throws and the 68-64 lead with 1,20 to play. After a stop, Frankfurt seemed to put the lid on the game with a thunderous Nikolic dunk on transition and 70-64 lead with 30 seconds to play. But that wasn´t the game. Within 21 seconds, the Dragons Rhondorf shocked Frankfurt with a Willoughby lay in which was followed by a Paulo steal and trey from the corner and suddenly Frankfurt led only 70-69 with 9 seconds remaining. Rhondorf needed a quick steal and if that didn´t happen had to foul fast. They gambled with a press, but had no one watching Leif Zentgraf who escaped for the easy lay up on transition as Peters made the quick touch down pass for the 72-69 lead with 7 seconds to play. Ilic and Leif Zentgraf added one free throw a piece ending the game. “We had a good press break. We mad eth right passes to beat the press”, said Maximilian Peters. “We played risky at the end. We didn´t have any security on Leif Zentgraf. These things can happen. It´s part of the game”, stated Daniel Mayr. The Skyliners Juniors were led by Maximilian Peters with 21 points while Lukas Smazak added 12 points and Florian Dietrich 11 points while the Dragons Rhondorf were led by Mychael Paulo with 16 points while Sahmi Willoughby added 15 points. The Skyliners Juniors shot 39% from the field and 23% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 35% from the field and 17% from outside and had 56 rebounds and 19 turnovers.

Zakai Zeigler´s(Veolia Towers Hamburg) Height Was Never An Issue As His Mom Always Told Him That He Could Be Whatever He Wanted To

This season there is so much going on with the Skyliners that would invent excitement to watch them play in their living room than other seasons. I mean they have one of the best rosters in the last decade and being able to watch guys like Judah Mintz, ex NBA player Ryan Arcidiacono or Mr Iso Isaiah Swope is an enrichment. However for me, I also can get excited to watch guys from other teams especially this season with the vast talent in the Eurocup. But even in the easyCredit BBL, there are guys on each team that present you with that zeal to enter the Skyliners arena. When I checked the Veolia Towers Hamburg roster, It was a number that first tickled my interest. I saw 175 and was instantly excited. New Hamburg guard Zakai Zeigler (175-PG-2002, college: Tennessee) is only 175cm, but a player that can definitely ball. I have always adored short players simply because I´m short. Back in the day, the first short player I tried to imitate on the court was Boston Celtic Tiny Archibald. Back in those days I also enjoyed guys like Muggsy Bogues, Spud Webb or Piston great Isaiah Thomas. Overseas there have also been great short point guards like Facundo Campazzo, Shane Larkin or TJ Shorts. Being able to see a young and still some what raw player like Zakai Zeigler was exciting. In the third quarter he drove to the rim showing his impressive combination of speed, ball handling, athleticism and agility going underneath and finishing with an acrobatic reverse lay up high of the glass that had me reeling not to fall of my chair. It was that nice. Not only are talented players who are taller, but off the radar and paying their dues in lower leagues have chip on their shoulders, but usually small players have that weighty chip on their shoulders. For Zeigler, there is that chip, but he got the correct motivation, drive and confidence early on to strive for his goals no matter the so called adversary. “ Playing basketball is always what I did. My mom always told me I could do what I wanted to in life. I always wanted to be a pro player and that is what I am. I always liked watching Kemba Walker. I have a personal connection to him since my dad knows his dad. Kemba and I also have the same agent. I always watched how he handles the pick and roll. I also like watching guys like Trae Young and Fred Van Vleet”, stressed Zakai Zeigler.

The Veolia Towers Hamburg came to Frankfurt with a 1-3 record and played the Skyliners tough in the first half, but in the second half were unable to penetrate the walling up and packing the paint by Frankfurt who were able to really stifle the Towers offense. It also helped that they upped their shooting percentages. “We played well in the first half even if we were a little up and down. We didn´t respond well in the second half when they punched. We were unable to swing when they swung”, stressed Zakai Zeigler. Frankfurt were on a mission and never let up in the fourth quarter allowing their least points in the game with 16 and just buckled down like a good defensive team should. “They did a good job packing the paint. I feel like we were too hooked to play the correct way than being aggressive. I think that if we had been as aggressive like in the first half, then the game couldn´t of gone in a different way”, warned Zakai Zeigler. It also didn´t help Hamburg´s cause that they had to withstand a player like Judah Mintz who had the hot hand in so many instances when Frankfurt were on runs. Mintz proved that he was the master of the runs in this game. He finished with 27 points leading the Skyliners to the win. “He is a very good player. I knew him before the game as we had played against each other in college. We talked some smack. He shot the ball well. When he gets downhill, he is great”, stressed Zakai Zeigler. The American who was born on Long Island and played at Our Saviour Lutheran School in the Bronx had 13 points and 2 assists in 29 minutes and shot the ball well at 42% from the field, but felt like he could of done more in the second half after a good first half. “I began strong in the first quarter. I could have been more aggressive in the second quarter. I played Ok. I´m never satisfied”, stressed Zakai Zeigler.

The ex University of Tennessee (NCAA) guard who had stints playing in the NBA Summer League with the Pistons and Spurs and played his rookie season overseas with Nanterre 92 (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) is playing his second pro season with the Voelia Towers Hamburg. The BBL is in a way similar to the France Pro A, but also different and he is confident that his new team can do big things despite the slow start at 1-4 in the BBL. “I think that the biggest difference between both leagues is the physicality. The refs let you play more in the BBL. I feel like we can have a good season. The playoffs are the goal. We just still have things to figure out”, added Zakai Zeigler. He is also very fortunate to have some great teammates this season with young player Noah Thomasson and veteran David Muenkat who had a home coming on Sunday playing against his ex team Frankfurt. “I played against Noah in school. I love his game. He has that James Harden play style. He is great at scoring the ball and going downhill. David is amazing. He is our leader and rebounds the ball so well. He can get on your back, but then turn around and give you a high five”, smiled Zakai Zeigler. So far through 5 games, he is averaging 11/4/2/1 stats in 26 minutes. He has showed that he needs no adjustment time to being an impact player in the BBL. “My role this season is to be that point guard that is aggressive, makes shots and is a lock down defender”, commented Zakai Zeigler. This season the Hamburg Towers don´t have the double stress of Eurocup competition and only have to focus on the easyCredit BBL. The American has one big goal what he has to improve this season. “I have struggled my whole career on shooting and that is something I definitely will work hard on”, warned Zakai Zeigler. As a guy who grew up in the tough Bronx, it must be one of the biggest culture shocks living in one of the most beautiful cities in the world with Hamburg. I bet there are very few people from the Bronx that have been in Hamburg. “Hamburg is amazing. I´m really happy that my family is here with my sister at the moment. When I have some time, I really like to go sit and relax at the Alster lake”, said Zakai Zeigler. He also has found a liking to the great German food. “I really like the bread. I like going to the store and being able to get fresh bread”, smiled Zakai Zeigler. It will be interesting to see if the Veolia Towers Hamburg can dig themselves out of their little hole and how Zakai Zeigler continues to develop this season. I´m sure his dazzling exciting play will enrich other people in other arena´s in Germany this season.

The Miles Vs D’monte Brown(Fellbach Flashers)Weekly Basketball Conversation Volume 1

D’Monte Brown (193-G-2000, college: Langston) is a 193cm guard from Petersburg, Virginia who is playing his first Pro B season in Germany with the Fellbach Flashers, He played his second season overseas with Culture City Weimar helping them move up to the Pro B. He played his rookie season overseas with the BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 24,6ppg, 11,2rpg, 3,8apg, 2,9spg and 1,0bpg. He began his basketball career at Petersburg High School. He then played at 3 schools starting with Garrett College (JUCO) averaging 13.5ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 90.2% and 20.6ppg, 8.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 80.9%. He then played a season at Miami Dade College (JUCO) averaging 16.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 82.7% and then played 2 years at Langston University, OK (NAIIA) averaging 11.5ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 74.0% and 9.8ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 75.0%. He teams up with eurobasket to talk basketball every week and bring insight to his overseas journey.

Congrats on the big 95-90 overtime win over Frankfurt. How vital was having a tough win after winning the first 2 games easily?

It was a great win. We are undefeated at home. It isn´t easy to win every game.

Fellbach had a strong first quarter leading 25-9, but Frankfurt rallied and came back in the second quarter to trail by 15 points at the break. Frankfurt was getting paint points after pain points. What were the reasons for them coming back?

Frankfurt is a team you can´t sleep on. They have a good 5 man and rebound well and are physical.

In the third quarter Frankfurt closed out the quarter with a lethal 13-0 run. What was key for them coming back?

Frankfurt tried to outscore us and play harder than us, but we found a way to fight back and respond for the win.

What a crazy ending to the fourth quarter. Fellbach was up by 6 points with 36 seconds to play, but they hit 2 three´s to tie the game and then hit another trey to send game into overtime. Was Fellbach to relaxed in the last seconds?

It isn´t easy when you have 12 new players that have never played together before. We played together. Some teams would have given up, but we found a way to stay together and made the plays needed to win.

Fellbach closed out the game with a 15-5 run. What was key in OT for the win?

They had a good start and we just had to find a way to stop them. We also found our game again and got on top of them and took over the game.

What was your impression of Frankfurt? They have no real import, but real team chemistry.

They have amazing team chemistry. It shows on the court and they trust each other. Whatever mistake they make, they just keep going to the next play.

You have had 3 solid scoring games and had 20 points in the win. How happy have you been with your game?

I have a lot to prove to the world about who I am. I have to give my best for the team and give my all on the defensive end.

You next play 2-0 Reutlingen in a real derby. What will be key for getting the win?

It will be a tough game for sure. This is the first game on the road and they have a good fan base. They are in second place behind us. I´m looking forward to seeing a physical game.

Thanks D´monte for the chat.

Having Dad Yassin At Games Is Like A Gift For Malik Idbihi(Dragons Rhondorf)

When visiting games in the Dragon Dome in Bad Honnef, you are always bound to see some noteworthy basketball heads. Seeing players from easyCredit BBL team Telekom Baskets is nothing unusual when they have a night off. However sometimes you also see other basketball figures like a Kamil Novak, the Executive director of FIBA and who played with the Dragons Rhondorf more than 20 years ago or on other occasions seeing basketball 221 meter giant Rolf Bibo Mayer who is the father of current Dragons center Daniel Mayr and at a time was the tallest German alive. But there is also another well known German basketball player who is often seen in the Dragon Dome and that is ex German national player Yassin Idbihi. He is currently a scout for Europe for NBA team Charlotte Hornets and when his job isn´t occupying his time, he loves watching his son Khalid who won the German JBBL (U-16) title in 2026 and rookie of the year and 17 year old Malik whom plays for the Dragons Rhondorf and NBBL (U-19) team Bonn-Rhondorf. He isn´t at all games, but his presence in the ´Dragon Dome is very special for Malik. “Having my dad watching me play in the Dragon Dome is like a gift for me. He is very helpful and supports me like a coach and always tells me what I can improve”, stated Malik Idbihi (193-PG-2009). It was the second home game in a row where Yassin found time to observe his son. His dad who was born in Cologne Germany and also has the Moroccan citizenship played at the University of Buffalo (NCAA) and had a fruitful easyCredit BBL career in Germany with elite teams like Alba Berlin, Bamberg and Munich and won 4 titles was a 208cm center while his son is a 193cm point guard. Do the different positions pose a problem with the learning effect? “Not at all. My dad has so much experience and coached here some years ago. He knows how to coach all positions”, smiled Malik Idbihi. In the summers, they don´t only work on his game, but take family vacations to Morocco. “That is also a gift spending time with my family there. We never play basketball there, but may play some football on the beach”, smiled Malik Idbihi.

The second home game didn´t play out as well as the team win over Erfurt as BG Hessing Leitershofen smothered the Dragons Rhondorf 82-68. Rhondorf had an awful shooting day and didn´t come to terms with the aggressive Leitershofen defense despite dominating the boards 55-36. “We couldn´t hit our shots consistently and had no solutions against their defense. They switched all and we relied too much on our three pointer. On offense, they could do what they wanted. We also couldn´t match their physicality”, stated Malik Idbihi. The Dragons Rhondorf also had problems containing Leitershofen´s veterans Bobby Arthur Williams who hit very instrumental three´s as did ex easyCredit BBL player Joanic Bacoul. The club also got valuable support from young German Connor Anderson who had his Pro B break out with 11 points and also gave impulses on defense as did Jannik Westermeir who´s on ball defense gave Rhondorf´s guards fits. The club doesn´t have much time to think about the loss as they have the next game on Wednesday in Frankfurt and then are back at home against top team Fellbach on Saturday. They will have to be on their toes in the coming week. “We have to play better defense, be more aggressive and physical. We also have to find quicker solutions when our shots aren´t falling”, warned Malik Idbihi. As a young player, he has some veterans who are instrumental for the team and also his game like Canadian Mychael Paulo who can create a shot out of nothing or Sahmi “Dennis Rodman with a jump shot” Willoughby who once had a massive Kevin Love like game at Marietta (NCAA 3) against Baldwin Wallace of 22/24. “I love being teammates with both of them. Mychael is such a great player. He seemingly does everything right on the court. He hits shots and always makes the right decision. Sahmi hits shots and plays strong defense. It is a huge pleasure playing with both guys”, smiled Malik Idbihi. He is also teammates with many young guys. Last season it was Dusam Ilic, Carlo Schmid and David Bonning that made big strides in their games and this season, the club hopes it will be guys like Idbihi and Tom Viehofer.

Last season Malik Idbihi played with Team Bonn/Rhoendorf U19 team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 10.5ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 83.3% and had good games against Giessen scoring 16 and 14 games while in the Pro B played 9 games averaging 1,8ppg and scored 8 points against Rostock already showing his talent at that level. This season his game really took off in the first 2 games as he came into the Leitershofen game averaging 11/5/4/1 stats. He had a solid 12/5/3 game against Erfurt and then upped his game against FC Bayern basketball with a very efficient 10/5/5/3 game in only 15 minutes and in the two games shot 36%. However against Leitershofen he was brought back down to reality as he had 2 points an 1 assist in 9,53 minutes and shot 0/6. “I wasn´t happy with my game. I missed all my shots and I rushed my shots. My shot release was too quick. I have to work on that. I have to make offensive decisions quicker. My defense was solid”, commented Malik Idbihi. His role is to play 15 + minutes coming from the bench, but his desire for more is huge. “I want to increase it. I´m very ambitious and want to play even better than what I have shown. My organizing got better over the summer., I´m playing the one more. It is all a learning process”, warned Malik Idbihi. Was his consistency in the first 2 games a surprise since he is still such a young player? “No not at all. Actually the way I played against Leitershofen was more surprising. I am super confident in my abilities. I had a bad game, but that is part of the game. I just have to jump back in the next game. I have that next game mentality”, warned Malik Idbihi. He will definitely have that chance on the weekend in the youth sector and this week when he battles many young talents in Frankfurt.

Judah Mintz Is The Master Of The Runs Leading The Skyliners To 89-78 Victory over the Veolia Towers Hamburg

Despite having the extra competition and stress of the Eurocup competition, the Frankfurt Skyliners have done a good job balancing everything with their easyCredit schedule and had produced a 2-1 BBL record. Their only loss was a close battle in Berlin, but other than that they gave solid performances against Rasta Vechta in their living room and beat the feisty BBL newcomer Phoenix Hagen on the road. Earlier in the season they easily dismantled Science City Jena in cup action. This time they welcomed the 1-3 team Hamburg Towers. They had beaten Fiba Europe Cup winner Chemnitz and had good outings losing to Oldenburg and Rostock in very close games. Frankfurt was unbeaten at home and wanted to keep the winning streak alive in their living room and did as they heightened their overall game in the second half hitting more shots and packing the middle in the zone giving Hamburg little room to operate and forced many turnovers winning their third game of the season 89-78. “We knew that they were a good team. We had our ups and downs, but stuck together for 40 minutes. We were missing Ryan Arcidiacono, but others picked up the slack. It was a really good team win”, stressed Skyliner guard Judah Mintz (190-SG-2003, college: Syracuse). Hamburg had to play catch up basketball in the second half and cut it down to 4 points in crunch-time, but were never able to get over the hump. “We played pretty well for 30 minutes. But in the fourth quarter they were more comfortable making shots. We had problems making shots and put our heads down”, stressed Hamburg Tower snipper Mathys Kangudia.

Till Pape at the FT line

The Skyliners broke out quickly in the first quarter taking the comfortable 8-3 lead in the first minutes. Frankfurt was calm and controlled getting a trey from ex Indiana University (NCAA) forward Race Thompson and free throws from ex Artland Dragon Will Christmas, ex Bonn center Till Pape and ex Syracuse (NCAA) guard Judah Mintz. Frankfurt was aggressive attacking the rim from the get go. But it didn´t take Hamburg long to finally find their offensive rhythm as ex University of Tennessee (NCAA) guard Zakai Zeigler added 5 points as his incredible ball handling, cross overs, stutter steps and quickness had the Skyliners defense on their heels all day long. Ex Bonn center Martin Breunig connected with a baby hook shot and ex Skyliner David Muenkat made a runner as Frankfurt led 10-9. Frankfurt set the tone getting more production from Thompson with an offensive rebound and put back and a Christmas lay in, but Hamburg always had an answer as they got free throws and a lay in from French center and ex Central Michigan University (NCAA) player Nicolas Pavrette to trail 17-15. Frankfurt kept punching with a Christmas lay in and free throws from ex Ludwigsburg forward Radii Caisin to lead 27-21, but three´s by American Trey Wade from Wichita State University (NCAA) and Breunig at the buzzer kept Hamburg close trailing 27-24 after one quarter. “It was a rough first quarter. They were almost on pace for 100 points. Our defensive intensity wasn´t there yet. We weren´t as focused as in the second half defensively”, stated Judah Mintz. The Skyliners shot 53% from the field and 40% from outside and had 10 rebounds and 4 turnovers while the Veolia Towers Hamburg shot 50% from the field and 33% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

Noah Thomasson from outside

In the second quarter the Veolia Towers Hamburg took control of the game and led by as much as 5 points, but simply couldn´t shake Frankfurt as they battled back and trailed only 43-42 at the break. Hamburg began extremely focused silencing the Skyliners with an 8-0 run and produced 4 stops. In the run, they got 5 points from Mathys Kangudia and another three pointer from Zeigler to get their first lead of the game 32-27. ´Frankfurt wasn´t able to match Hamburg´s intensity and had miserable transition defense and Hamburg got super support from their bench. Frankfurt needed someone who would take responsibility and that player was Judah Mintz who added a 20 footer and turnaround shot, but the Skyliners couldn´t make stops as ex Butler guard Noah Thomasson made a lay in by David Muenkat as the guests led 36-31. Hamburg continued to get good bench support and got easy baskets as the Skyliners defense had lost intensity. But Frankfurt never hung their head as Mintz continued to be hot showing how lethal his mid range game is with a 20 footer and American Isaiah Swope hit a three pointer which would be his only bucket of the game. He had an off night shooting 1/8 as Frankfurt trailed 38-36, There were 4 more lead changes at the end as the Skyliners received big production from ex UConn guard Nahiem Alleyne with consecutive three´s, but lost the lead as Kangudia dropped another clutch trey to lead by 1 point at half-time. “We lost a little focus and made errors which allowed them to come back. But we stayed strong and stayed close”, commented Judah Mintz. The Veolia Towers Hamburg shot 42% from the field and 32% from the three point line and had 20 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Skyliners shot 47% from the field and 42% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Will Christmas strong to the hole

In the third quarter the Skyliners found back to their explosive scoring of the first quarter adding 26 points and led 68-62 after 30 minutes. The Skyliners came out unconcentrated coughing up the ball twice which led to a Muenkat lay in and Thomasson free throws to lead 47-42. But basketball is a game of runs and the Skyliners switched the lever up and crushed Hamburg with a brutal 11-0 run to extend their lead to 53-47. In their run, the Skyliners shared the love beautifully as 4 different guys scored as Christmas started the run with a massive dunk, Pape made a put back dunk, Mintz added 3 points and Caisin found his range netting a trey. Mintz led the charge on offense and on defense they had switched up their energy a notch and packed the paint that reacted like a wall and just stifled Hamburg. But Hamburg wasn´t terrified, but actually ready to punch back and did with a 7-1 run to suddenly only trail 55-54. Ex Bamberg forward Kenneth Ogbe was instrumental netting 5 points and Muenkat remained aggressive on the offensive glass pulling down an offensive rebound and making the put back. But Frankfurt always had an answer and stopped the run and punched back getting a runner from Alleyne and a clutch trey from Christmas to lead 64-58. Hamburg also had an answer with a Thomasson step back jumper and Muenkat dunk, but the Skyliners closed out the quarter with a pretty Robin Bedime alley-op combination from Swope and free throws from Christmas for the 6 point lead. “We did a good job sticking to our game plan and managing their runs”, added Judah Mintz. “We weren´t focused and allowed them to go on a run. We didn´t stay together and find a solution to stop their offense”, stated Mathys Kangudia. The Skyliners shots 45% from the field and 35% from the parking lot and had 33 rebounds and 12 turnovers while the Veolia Towers Hamburg shot 42% from the field and 27% from the parking lot and had 27 rebounds and 11 turnovers.

Kenneth Ogbe at the FT line

The Skyliners continued to execute their offense well in the fourth quarter and never allowed Hamburg to trail with less than 4 points. Ogbe began the last quarter with a turn around shot as Hamburg trailed 70-64. Frankfurt had a few weak possessions opting for iso play, but their rock hard defense saved them with big stops which led to a mini 5-0 run as the minister of runs Judah Mintz supplied all the points as Frankfurt led 75-64. But Hamburg stayed tough as they responded with a 5-0 run as Zeigler heaved up another trey and Muenkat made free throws as Frankfurt led only 75-69. Frankfurt then had their 5th team foul at the 4,46 minute mark. Ogbe missed 2 free throws and Breunig answered with a massive dunk as Hamburg was threatening trailing only 75-71. But Frankfurt like so often in this game had the ability to punch back crushing the Towers with a powerful 10-0 run to lead 85-71 and decide the game. Mintz was the man again nailing back to back three´s while Christmas attacked the rim for two points and ex Chemnitz German Roman Bedime made free throws. Mintz proved on this afternoon that he is the master of the runs. “I just took what the game gave me. We knew that they couldn´t stop us when we get down hill. I´m happy that I shot the ball well. It was a god day at the office for me”, warned Judah Mintz. “Mintz is a good player. When he starts making shots, then it´s hard to stop him”, added Mathys Kangudia. Caisin added a trey and Wurzburg closed out the game with a 5-0 run as Muenkat added a trey and Thomasson a lay in, but it was too little too late as the Skyliners moved to 3-1 and Hamburg 1-4. “We hit big shots. We knew that in order to win games, you have to defend well. We kept them off the line”, added Judah Mintz. “They played tough defense packing the paint and got no fouls. It was tough getting to the rim. When you don´t hit three´s then it is hard to win”, said Mathys Kangudia. The Skyliners were led by Judah Mintz with 27 points. Will Christmas added 18 points and Radii Caisin 11 points while the Veolia Towers Hamburg were led by David Muenkat with 17 points and 14 boards and Kenneth Ogbe added 16 points. The Skyliners shot 43% from the field and 42% from outside and had 44 rebounds and 14 turnovers while the Veolia Towers Hamburg shot 38% from the field and 25% from outside and had had 44 rebounds and 15 turnovers.

The EPG Baskets Have Best Start In Their Pro A History As Chase Johnson And His Teammates Are Playing For Tyren Moore The Rest Of The Way

Pic Credit: Angel King Media

Chase Forte (193-G-2001, college: Boston Coll.) is a 25 year old 193cm guard from North Carolina playing his rookie season overseas with German Pro A team EPG Baskets Koblenz. He began his basketball career at the Word Of God Christian Academy. He then was one year at the University of North Carolina – Asheville (NCAA) and then played 2 seasons at Gulf Coast State College (JUCO) averaging 13.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.9apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 54.1% and 20.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 5.8apg, 2.8spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 61.4%. He then played a season at Northwestern State University (NCAA) averaging 9.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 53.7%. He then played a season at the University of South Dakota (NCAA) averaging 17.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 65.2%. He then added one more year at Boston College (NCAA) averaging : 6.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 59.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the massive 88-86 road win in Paderborn

Congrats on the big 88-86 win in Paderborn. The team is 3-1 and have their greatest Pro A start in history. How good does that feel as a rookie?

It feels really good. We really expect wins like this. We have big goals. Obviously with Ty Moore out, it isn´t easy. We have to keep going. The league won´t feel sorry for us and we won´t feel sorry for ourselves either.

How proud are you winning the second game in a row without Tyren Moore. Do you guys have that “We are playing for Tyren Moore” attitude?

Yes we are. I remember last night when Badu Buck had us in a huddle before we all got on the bus, he said “We got this win done for him. We are playing for him”. We were all at a loss of words when it was announced that he was done for the season. In our last interview, I told you that we were all wishing him a speedy recovery before knowing how bad his injury really was. We didn´t expect it. It is just amazing to see how all stuck together with 16 down and battling back to win.

How was the bus ride home? Was it more relaxed or was there some celebrating?

It was relaxed. We did our celebrating on the court and in the locker room. On the bus, it was over. We can´t live in the past. We have that next game mentality.

What was the game plan coming in? The team was known as a three point shooting team. They didn´t disappoint heaving it 47 times?

Containing Worku was our biggest game plan. He was my match up. He can shoot the ball, but is also a great creator for their offense. I contained him well. He only scored 4 points. We elected to have other guys try to beat us.

You began the game again as main point guard with no Tyren Moore. Was there less pressure than against Artland or were you totally locked in?

I was totally locked in. I´m used to running the show. Playmaking is really my biggest strength. My shot still isn´t falling and when that happens, then I have to find other ways to impact the game and help my team win.

Paderborn led 23-15 after 10 minutes. They really began hit three´s toward the end, but also found the way to the rim getting easy baskets. What was defensively the biggest problem for the EPG Baskets in the first 10 minutes?

We played the drive a lot and they hit crazy shots. Silic hit some crazy step back three´s. We tried to contest them as best as we could. Gille tried to close out while staying on the side to force the drive. As a result we forced turnovers. We hit a buzzer beater at the end which helped us stay in the game.

In the second quarter a big strength was the fighting qualities of the EPG Baskets. The score was only 43-38, but the deficit could have been 10-15 if Camaron Tongue and Ferenc Gille hadn´t made timely baskets? As a rookie did a quarter like this help your leadership qualities grow?

Yes absolutely. We weren´t hitting shots, so I had to find other ways to get guys engaged. I kept telling my teammates that our run was coming.

What was it like battling against Jonil Fugett. He is another guy who is working his way up the ladder and has big potential. Did he feel your physicality at times?

He definitely felt my physicality. It wasn´t a problem guarding him for me.

How big was the energy needed from German Jannis Sonnefeld? He made a 7-0 run all by himself with 2 dunks. How big was that then at that moment?

Jannis´s energy at that moment was so important for us. My favorite play was his put back dunk in that phase. That really got us hyped. He gave us great support and that was the turning point of the game.

How much does the presence of Camaron Tongue benefit his game?

It helps a lot. Iron sharpens iron. They go at it in practice daily and that helps both guys. Both are key players for us.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz kept fighting and trailed only 68-67 after 30 minutes thanks to a big Jonas Niedermanner trey. What did head coach Stephan Dohrn tell the team for the fourth quarter?

He just told us to finish the game strong and that in no way did we want a copy of the Nurnberg game. We had to make sure that we stay together.

In the third quarter rookie Camaron Tongue scored 3 baskets in a row and after 4 games is the team´s most consistent player. Did you see this type of development when you arrived in August?

He has been awesome and we appreciate it so much what he does night in and night out for us. He has been playing like that since he got here and he is just healthy now and it shows.

In crunch time, Koblenz made a run to get the 88-83 lead, but they stormed back with a Fugett trey, but you then made a big stop on Eyassu Worku. What was key at the end for the win?

I think staying together and sharing the ball well at the end was key. Our stop of Worku at the end was big even if it could have been a foul. All in all though, we were a bit sloppy at the end of the game. We turned the ball over and let Worku go coast to coast, but Tongue made a big play and walled up. We can´t let that happen to a player like that at the end of the game. We still made big plays starting with a Gille offensive rebound lay up and mid range shots by Diculesciú and I and got 3 stops.

What was the key stat? Winning the rebound battle, 8 turnovers or having 74-49 more shots?

We did a good job with getting offensive rebounds and forcing 17 turnovers, but I think the key stat was having the extra possessions and having 25 more shots.

You had a 6/4/8 game but shot 2/10 from the field. What was your summary of your game?

Like I said in our last interview, if my shot isn´t falling, then I have to find other ways to help us win. I can´t cry about my shot not falling. I just have to get up more shots in the gym. I did my job leading the team to victory. I had 8 assists and 0 turnovers. I can be happy about that.

What will you work on most this week?

I will work a lot this week on finishing through contact. I also want to work on my mid range more. I used it at the perfect time yesterday. I want to use it more. I respect the league and continue to get up reps.

How will you spend your Sunday night? Will NFL football be on the program?

I will watch a little NFL. I couldn´t check the schedule much yet, because I was so focused on game yesterday. My team are the Colts.

But your from North Carolina and not Indianapolis?

That is correct. Most people in North Carolina like the Panthers, but I just grew up loving Payton Manning.

Thanks Chase for the chat.