Cooper Creek Shows His 2-Way Player Qualities leading TV Langen To 78-60 Victory over Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg

How totally different 2 early autumns can be, is exactly what Pro B team TV Langen have experienced the last 2 seasons. Last season they were plagued with injury woes and began 0-6, but this season they have been relatively healthy and were sporting a potent 3-1 record and had stamped their game staple early already on the defensive end. With a super duo of Germans Niklas Pons and Henk Droste plus 2 incredible newcomers with beast Noah Kamdem and Australian shooter Cooper Creek, the club led by head coach Tobias Jahn had cemented the foundation of a nice team. Their next opponent were Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg who as always have very young teams and this season´s team was no exception. It was filled with 3 big time German prospects with Lars Danziger, Kenan Youdom and Yohann Tchouaffe. They had started slowly with a 1-4 record, but played Erfurt and Leitershofen close. On a cool early Autumn day, it was actually the guests from Ludwigsburg that shocked TV Langen with a potent first quarter, but couldn´t hold the momentum as two crushing TV Langen runs to begin the second and third quarters paved the road for a convincing 78-60 win. “We had a slow start and were sloppy, even though our defense was solid. We had our first run in the second quarter and then were able to play our game. We relaxed more and executed better on offense taking better quality shots. We worked hard on defense and covered well for each other on the defensive end”, stressed TV Langen forward Cooper Creek (203-F-2001, college: Assumption, agency: Dominion Sports Group). Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg had a strong first quarter, but then had massive problems taking care of the ball and couldn´t find consistency on the defensive end and had problems with their inexperience as they had an average age of 18,7 years. “We started well. We then made young mistakes and couldn´t take good care of the ball. We did a good job holding them to 1/14 in the first quarter, but then couldn´t execute our game plan the rest of the way”, stressed Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg head coach Jordi Salto.

Sebastian Kuhn at the FT line

Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg had a splendid start taking the 7-0 lead and stopping TV Langen on six consecutive possessions. The guests played great defense with very aggressive on ball defense. TV Langen was experiencing extreme pressure which led to two steals by Lukas Modic which led to a transition basket by him and a steal by German U-16 national player Yohann Tchouaffe which led to a dunk by German Daniel Mack. Ex Reutlingen German Thomas Duarte also added a trey. Australian forward Cooper Creek stopped the run with free throws. The aggressive defense by the guests didn´t allow TV Langen to find a rhythm plus their undersized big man Noah Kamdem was being denied the ball in the post. The geusts also was forcing turnovers which didn´t allow TV Langen to find a very smooth offensive rhythm. Here and there, TV Langen got good looks, but shots just didn´t want to fall which can happen to anyone. Ex Sudhessen (NBL) German Kventin Kostan made a tip in to trail 9-4. The guests also got good bench support as young German Sebastian Kuhn hit a trey and 2026 AST winner Kenan Youdam also connected for a three pointer to lead 15-5. Hidalgo added a lay in while Modic a free throw for the 16-8 Ludwigsburg advantage after 10 minutes. “We had a really slow start. We didn´t come to terms with their pressure. They played good defense and forced us to mistakes and didn´t let Kamdem play his game”, stressed Cooper Creek. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg shot 20% from the 2 point range and 40% from outside and had 15 rebounds and 7 turnovers while TV Langen shot 11% from the 2 point range and 0% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Cooper Creek to the hole

The turning point of the game occurred in the second quarter as a large TV Langen run allowed them to lead in double figures at the break and they would never look back until the end. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg actually punched first with a trey from 2026 AST winner Lars Danziger, but then came the crushing 15-0 run from TV Langen giving them the 24-19 advantage. In the run, TV Langen did a beautiful job sharing the scoring love as six different players scored. TV Langen finally hit their first three´s of the game as ex Skyliner Junior Niklas Pons connected as did Kostan while ex Leverkusen forward Henk Droste scored inside as did ex Erfurt center Noah Kamdem and ex Speyer guard Carlos Hidalgo. All in all the total intensity from TV Langen was upped and they finally began to hit shots better and made better decisions. TV Langen also rebounded better and were able to put Kamdem into better position to be himself. This quarter proved that basketball is a game of runs as Ludwigsburg weren´t shocked by the TV Langen run and punched back with their own 7-2 run to dead lock the game at 26-26. Danziger became more aggressive attacking the rim scoring twice while Tchouaffe hit from the parking lot. The momentum had swung back over to the guests, but it didn´t stay there long. TV Langen were able to get their game going again closing out the second quarter with a smooth 11-5 run to extend their lead to 48-38. Kamdem and Droste attacked the rim and scored with the first spinning to the hoop like a ballerina while Kostan dropped another trey as he gave timely shots a new meaning. TV Langen played fierce defense in the run getting more steals which put TV Langen into good position to score. TV Langen went into the break with the momentum. “That 15-0 run got us into the game and we kept going with it. Our experience was really key in this quarter. We got Kamdem better into position and when everyone sees the ball going in, it definitely gets everyone going”, stated Cooper Creek. TV Langen shot 43% from the 2 point range and 30% from the three point line and had 21 rebounds and 10 turnovers while Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg shot 31% from the 2 point area and 31% from the three point line and had 20 rebounds and 14 turnovers.

Bink De Goede from outside

In the third quarter TV Langen continued to control the game and executed really well on offense while defending consistently and not allowing the guests to find a run. TV Langen came out and punched right away going on a lethal 12-0 run to take the overwhelming 50-28 lead. Hidalgo and Creek hit back to back three´s while Droste remained aggressive always finding cracks in the zone for easy lay in´s. Hidalgo also scored on the drive. TV Langen did a super job putting their feet on the gas pedal from the start while Ludwigsburg came out lethargic, sloppy and had a poor body language. It seemed like their youth and inexperience affected them mentally. Ludwigsburg found some daylight getting a mini 4-0 run with Modic free throws and a Mack offensive rebound to trail 50-32. However TV Langen at this point just stuck together and didn´t allow any big let down, but instead struck back with a 7-0 run to extend their lead to 57-32. In the run, it was great role player Kostan that showed his inside out skills again with 5 points with a trey and lay in while Creek scored with a lay in in traffic. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg didn´t have many guys on this night that could take over while TV Langen showed that their bench can step up as did young German Mika Kroner who scored twice in the lane on the drive. The ex Wurzburg guard was always in attack mode and was really refreshing to observe as TV Langen had young blood from the bench step up. Sebastian Kuhn and Youdom hit three´s in the last minutes, but the guests couldn´t get over the hump trailing 64-42. “We punched first and played to our mentality. We played great defense and got everyone involved on offense”, added Cooper Creek. “We showed that we are a very young team. We didn´t have any confidence, but we never gave up”, said Jordi Salto. TV Langen shot 48% from the two point area and 47% from the parking lot and had 28 rebounds and 15 turnovers while Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg shot 29% from the two point area and shot 32% from the parking lot and had 28 rebounds and 23 turnovers.

Kventin Kostan from outside

In the fourth quarter TV Langen took their feet off the gas pedal a bit as Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg won the quarter 18-14, but couldn´t get over the hump. TV Langen had the big lead and in the first 5 minutes of the last quarter, it was evident to see that the guests simply didn´t have much fire power support on this night. TV Langen outscored the guests 8-7 sharing the ball well as Kamdem made a lay in and Creek and Kostan added three´s while the guests got all of their 7 points from Modic who was a one man wrecking crew, but couldn´t make any ground as TV Langen led 72-51. The game was decided as in the last minutes the guests got another trey by Kuhn while Mack made a tip in and Danziger a lay in. TV Langen got 5 more points from Cooper Creek and one of the nicest plays of the night happened near the end. Carlos Hidalgo showed his Milos Teodosic passing qualities making a magnificent over the shoulder pass to Creek for the dime and trey. “A month ago I wouldn´t have expected that pass, but now I know I always have to be ready. He looked at me shortly before passing and I had a feeling it might happen. It was like Magic Johnson and very magical”, smiled Cooper Creek. “I told you before the game that I will make a pass like that. It is always easier to do it when your up 20 points”, smiled Carlos Hidalgo. “We showed good mentality in the fourth quarter and never gave up. Having vets like Droste and Pons really helps on the defensive end. We want to develop that defensive mentality where we don´t let teams do their thing for at least a minute”, warned Cooper Creek. TV Langen had 5 guys score in double figures and were led by Kventin Kostan and Cooper Creek with 17 points a piece while Henk Droste added 13 points. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg were led by Lukas Modic with 16 points while Sebastian Kuhn had 13 points. TV Langen shot 47% from the field and 48% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 22 turnovers while Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg shot 29% from the field and 27% from outside and ahd 41 rebounds and 24 turnovers.

Looking For Blood Is Jeremy Ingram´s Forever Mentality And Getting Incredible Feedback From Dennis Schroeder Was Conformation That He Can Play With Anyone

My basketball love for Jeremy Ingram (183-F-1991, college: AAMU) just doesn´t stop. I mean I will never forget watching and meeting him for the first time in November 2020 in a small town called Idstein and have been covering him for 6 years and 34 interviews/articles for eurobasket/German Hoops have been produced in that time. You just have to Love him. There may not be a more talented guy to ever play in the Regionalliga Germany and never make the Pro B. Despite having a chip on his shoulder that has to be heavier than an elephant, the guy simply has always grinded and kept going. Playing in the Regionalliga doesn´t produce big pay checks, but he has learned over the years that earning money away from his playing career would be instrumental and he has done that with various off the court businesses that has allowed him to keep playing the game he loves. He is playing his 11th season in Luxemburg and continues to dominate at the tender age of 35. The guy is such an incredible competitor and has a heart of Gold and has that special self confidence in his game and himself that has allowed him to be successful on and off the court. “I´m 35 and been training harder than I ever have since I been overseas and my 3 ball is looking better than it ever has so I´m looking to have my best season ever So Don´t sleep on me. I don´t care what age I am when I step on that court I´m looking for blood, that´s my forever mentality”, warned Jeremy Ingram. This past summer he had the golden opportunity again to show the world just how good of a player he is and a confirmation that he is a lot better than in the leagues he has played in Germany, Croatia and Luxemburg as he proved his worth at the LGCY.

The LGCY was brought into life by the help of NBA player Dennis Schroeder which was an event where German national players formed teams that competed on state of the art courts in Berlin and Munich and combined it with entertainment. The event was stocked with a lot of NBA players like Franz Wagner and Isaac Bonga who supported their national team captain Dennis Schroeder. But the teams also needed other players from overseas and Jeremy Ingram who has played overseas for a decade was on board, but how does a guy who played most of his career in the Regionalliga get picked? “This team pretty much reached out to me to see if I was available. I know these guys from the basketball world and from playing in Berlin.”, stressed Jeremy Ingram who currently is in Germany again running his business in Kaiserslautern and Stuttgart. The American who also has balled in Luxemburg and Croatia in the past had to get used to some things he doesn´t usually see in a regular 40 minutes game. The rules had 4 quarters of 5 minutes each and 3 points for a dunk while the floor was of digital glass. “The first round of the tournament took us some time adjusting to the rules and really understanding it but we caught on pretty quick. Always try to get them dunks. The whole light up LED court was amazing and I actually had conversations with the guy who helped design it. It was super dope to play on but it was also very slippery. We were out there skating most of the game but it was still fun”, said Jeremy Ingram. What kind of teams did he play against and was there a club that was toughest to paly against me? “My team played against a Spain team both games and they were pretty decent but non of those guys can guard me. Respectfully”, added Jeremy Ingram.

The incredible one on one player who has a killer cross over to die for had really good players on his team including 4 first division players as well German Shawn Gulley that had Pro A experience. Due to certain circumstances, he had to show different facets of his game, but was there team ball involved or was it more isolation? “The first round of the tournament I had to play point guard so I felt very limited but I had some really good players on my team so I tried to just be a pg. In the 2nd round they brought in different point guards and moved me to the shooting guard and that´s where I got busy. Because I´m a natural scorer. I would say it was more iso because none of us really played with each other before so we didn´t really have too much chemistry on the court to be honest. We practiced maybe once or twice then we had to play so we played more streetball freestyle type of basketball”, warned Jeremy Ingram. The American was able to showcase much in his box including really sweet three´s, but was he overall content with his performance? “I always think I can play better but the way I play is fast and crossing people over but the court was so slippery it was hard to play that style so I just tried to take my shots and ended up going on a little hot streak so I would say I played pretty decent actually. Unfortunately my teammates weren´t able to hit too many of their shots so maybe I tried to take matters into my own hands a little too much. I get like that sometimes”, commented Jeremy Ingram. Was it difficult selecting just one favorite own play from the tournament or was the 3 level scorer who has countless breathtaking highlights each game pick only one? “Easily when I pulled up from like 6 feet behind the 3 point line. It was a heat check shot because I hit a 3 right before that”, remembered Jeremy Ingram.

Being able to battle at the LGCY was a massive stage for Jeremy Ingram. Where would he rank this experience in his all-time best basketball experiences? “I would say the Quai 54 in Paris was probably the all around best basketball event I have played in since I have been in Europe. But the LGCY atmosphere and just the stage and the light up floors was super dope so I rank this right there with the Quai 54”, stressed Jeremy Ingram. There was so much prominence there with guys like Franz Wagner, Isaac Bonga and Andreas Obst so it was only logical that he would network. “Franz was pretty much around us the whole tournament, even our practices. He’s such a cool and laid back guy. I networked with a lot of people and players who play in other countries. I also was hanging with the guy who actually created the LGCY Series, he’s a very cool guy also”, said Jeremy Ingram. He had an amazing LGCY experience on and off the court especially meeting Dennis Schroeder and on the court proving he is a lot better than in any league he has ever played in overseas. “Dennis stayed in the same hotel as me and after watching me hoop came to me in the hotel and said “I heard you played for my team in Braunschweig a few years ago”. So apparently I was doing my thing in the LGCY for them to be talking about me and we took pictures together. That was probably my top moment from the LGCY event. I got respect from almost everyone there and even got respect from Dennis Schroder so that´s my confirmation right there that I was hooping out there. I learned that just because a lot of those guys are in higher leagues than me doesn’t mean they are better than me. I already knew that but playing against guys in this series just confirmed it. I can hang with the best of them”, warned Jeremy Ingram. He may be 35 years old, but still has strong wheels as he is in his 11th pro season overseas with Grengewald Hostert (Luxembourg-LBBL) “I am super excited to be back a part of the Grengewald family and even more excited to help them in the first league this season”, stated Jeremy Ingram. Last season he played with German Mr Regionalliga player Ricky Easterling who last season averaged 12,0ppg in the German Regionalliga with Saarlouis at age 42 while also coaching him in Luxemburg. Both have that killer mid range game. “Ricky and I have known each other for a long time. He is one of the most efficient players I have played against. He was a great player and already shaping out to be a great coach. Got nothing but love and respect for him”, stressed Jeremy Ingram. Could Easterling give him extra motivation to play until he is 40? “ Well I don’t know about playing until I´m 40. Not that I can’t, it´s just my business is becoming so big and the bigger it gets more time consuming, so we’ll see about playing until 40 but I doubt that”, added Jeremy Ingram. Even if he doesn´t play until 40, one should enjoy every new game of Jeremy Ingram in the future, because his game will always be unforgettable.

Even 19 Years Later The Shammond Williams NBA Overseas Suit Look Never Slipped The Mind Of Assistant Coach Albert Oliver(La Laguna Tenerife)

Albert Oliver (187-PG-1978) is a 48 year old 187cm guard that is currently an assistant coach With La Laguna Tenerife. He enjoyed an incredible 25 year career playing 675 ACB games that was spent all in Spain. He played for teams like Caprabo Lleida, Ricoh Manresa, Pamesa Valencia, Asefa Estudiantes Madrid, FIATC Joventut Badalona, Herbalife Gran Canaria 2014, Coosur Real Betis Sevilla, and Monbus Obradoiro CAB scoring 5,211 points in the ACB. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his memories of a ULEB cup game between Valencia and Frankfurt from 2007.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber interviewing ex NBA and North Carolina guard Shammond Williams in Frankfurt in 2007

When I say the date December 10th, 2007 Does anything pop up in your mind?

I actually remember that time very well. But not necessarily for basketball, but for another reason. My son was born on December 18th, 2007.

On this day you were in this arena in Frankfurt almost 19 years ago. Now being back does the arena seem familiar again`

It actually looked a little familiar when I first entered for shoot around today. I thought maybe I had played here before. Now I know I played here since you told me.

What does it mean for you to be back here 19 years later?

My first feeling is I´m old now. I was 29 when I played here then. Looking back I think we won. I never lost in Germany before.

I was here in 2007 and so were you. Now were here again in 2026. Does that show how small the basketball world can be at times?

Yes the world is small. I didn´t expect that. We here again 19 years later.

I remember the game really well. I interviewed Shammond Williams and Ruben Williams before the game for my radio show and then called the game on the radio. What about you?

I don´t remember much. I do remember that we had a really talented team with those guys and others.

It was a low scoring game that Valencia won 76-68. Mindaugas Timinskas led Valencia with 20 points. Unlike like tonight which was a shoot out.

He is from Lithuania and played the 3 and 4. Now it seems like everyone is going to the NCAA from Europe. He had done it also back then which was a lot more rare. He had played at Iona. He was a really good shooter, but more important a good person.

Do you remember the 203Cm Derrick Allen of Frankfurt. He had the special ballerina moves.

No I don´t remember him. I played a lot of games in my career.

You had 0 points 2 rebounds and 2 assists in 14 minutes. It was only the second game in Euro competition that season where you had the goose egg. As a point guard was scoring 0 points less than a problem for you since you were a fine playmaker?

I obviously want to play better and score more, but for me the most important was always getting the win.

You were 29 years old in 2007 so ex NBA player Shammond Williams wasn´t a mentor. What memories do you have of him?

He was a really talented player especially on the offensive end. He was a scoring point guard that could do it all. He was physical and liked playing fast.

I will never forget him. He arrived at the game with a suit on as if he was still in the NBA. What was up with that suit approach?

Yes he was always wearing a suit. Maybe he thought he was still in the NBA. He always dressed like that home or away. He had many suits.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Shammond Williams?

Shammond for sure.

Who was the toughest player that you faced in the ACB in your career?

Elmer Bennett and Jorge Manuel Calderon

Who is your Spanish GOAT?

Juan Antonio San Epifanio.

Thanks Albert for the chat and memories.

Marcelinho Huertas(La Laguna Tenerife) Will Never Forget Having Special Conversations In Spanish And Italian With Kobe Bryant During His Laker Days

Marcelinho Huertas and Miles Schmidt-Scheuber in Frankfurt Germany

Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-1983) is a 43 year old 191cm point guard from Brazil playing his 23rd season overseas and 9th with La Laguna Tenerife. The Sao Paulo native began his overseas career in 20024 with DKV Joventut Badalona (Liga ACB). He also played with Iurbentia Bilbao Basket (Liga ACB), GMAC Real Estate Bologna (Italy-Serie A), and Caja Laboral Vitoria (Liga ACB). He then played 4 seasons with FC Barcelona (ACB) before making his NBA break through playing 2 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers. He then returned to Baskonia Vitoria Gasteiz (Spain-Liga ACB) before moving to La Laguna Tenerife. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against German team Skyliners,

Marcelinho thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. You are 43 years old and in your 23rd season after coming overseas in 2004. You are the Lebron James of overseas. What is your secret of being able to compete at the highest level?

There isn´t a secret for me. I live every day like if it was the first day of my career. My dream as a kid was always to be a pro. I never expected to get this far. What keeps me going is simply that the dream inside me is still alive. I couldn´t imagine my life any different. I just go out and play with passion and try my best. Obviously not having many injuries helped my body hold up. I play the sport I love competitively and with pride.

You have played 732 ACB games and retired player Felipe Reyes has the game record with 824. Are you striving to get by him?

That is really something that really doesn´t concern me. For me it was never about chasing something and beating records. I just go out on the court and have fun, be a good leader and be competitive.

You are playing your 8th season with La Laguna Tenerife. What is so special about this organization that has made you remain so long?

I found a place with this organization that I never expected when I arrived. But everything fits with this organization. The club, fans and city are great and my family and I feel very comfortable here since day one. It is simply a great surrounding where the players want to stay for a long time. We compete against the best teams and fight well in all competitions. There is no reason to have to move around like other players do. It is a perfect location and I´m happy.

Your teammate Aaron Dornekamp also loves the team as he is in his ninth season. Have you guys shared a special bond over the years more than other teammates?

We connected here and I already knew him from when we faced each other with our national teams. We have a special bond, but that is also the case with so many of the other guys who have been here a while. We have created a really nice team bond here and we like to be around each other. When one has a winning environment, it makes everything so much easier on the court. We have so many high IQ players that it makes everything easier on the court.

Was winning the Basketball Champions League in 2022 your biggest success with La Laguna Tenerife? What was so special about this team?

That is hard to tell. Winning titles are important and mark a special place. But there have also been so many other moments in my time here. Having 1 great day winning a title can´t replace 8 years. I like being around nice people in a nice environment. There were also other great accomplishments like reaching the ACB semi-finals a lot. Beating Real Madrid as a eighth seed was also very special. I believe having nice ties with your teammates last longer than titles.

You have played often against German teams over the years. How have you observed German basketball over the years and how has it developed in the last 10-15 years?

German basketball has grown so much. I see the results with the national team and they have been great. The teams have been so highly competitive and physical over the years. There are so many so gifted players like a few Brazilians that are playing for the team where I´m a bit bitter. They are a great team with a great future.

Before arriving in Tenerife, you played two seasons with Kirolbet Baskonia Vitoria. There you were teammates with current Euroleague player Johannes Voigtmann. How did you see his development the last two years and why isn´t a guy like him in the NBA?

Joe is such a talented player that can do it all as a big man. He can shoot, hit the 3, pass and play above the rim. He is one of those players where you don´t know how to guard him. He has gotten so much better and comfortable over the last years. He also has played with the best teams. Why he didn´t go to the NBA is a good question. You would have to ask him. Maybe he just knew that his place was in Europe. Sometimes it is better having a good status somewhere instead of having a frustrated dream. He has had a great career in Europe and I believe he is happy with that.

You played in the NBA from 2015-2017 playing 76 games with the Los Angeles Lakers. What kind of experience was that for you? What did you learn most from the experience?

I had to bring my A game each day. There was nothing guaranteed with my situation and I always had to earn my minutes. It was frustrating sometimes when I was in the rotation and out even though I believed that I deserved to be in the rotation. I had to always be ready and could only control what I could and not mess up. I feel like I did the best that I could. I was around incredible players and tried to learn as much as possible.

Was your 10 points and 9 assists in the win against the great Golden State Warriors one of your fondest single game performances? You can always tell your grand children that you beat Steph Curry in a game.

That game was very special for me. Being able to beat the beat team in that era was great. It was so memorable winning and me having an impact in it. That game was my most memorable in my 2 years with the Lakers. I didn´t beat them, but we did it as a team.

You were teammates with the late Kobe Bryant. What was your fondest story with him?

I will always remember Kobe being a really nice guy to me. I was very lucky to share special moments with him in the locker room. We sat next to each other in the locker room and training room. I will never forget having conversations in Spanish and Italian. He liked talking in different languages and not having his teammates know what he was saying. We spoke about random things and had nice private time together. But at the same time, I really respected his space and didn´t try to invade it too much.

What was the best example that you saw in your two year NBA stay that showed that the NBA is a business first and nothing else?

The NBA really is a business. There is so much money and ego´s involved. Clubs are so worried about reconstruction that the feelings for the players isn´t there. Sometimes decisions are made by clubs where the player has no power. Some guys will move to 2-3 teams in a season and that is hard. It isn´t easy for families, but that is part of the business. I was very lucky that I had no problems with that and stayed 2 seasons with the Lakers.

You played 4 years with FC Barcelona from 2011-2015 winning 4 titles. Would it be fair to say that this was the most memorable time in your professional career?

My dream as a kid wasn´t only to be a professional player, but one day to play for FC Barcelona. That dream came true. When I was there, I put in as much effort and competed at a high level and tried to win as much as possible. I had 4 good years, but am disappointed that I never won a Euroleague title. We reached 3 final 4´s. The Euroleague is that one title that I really wanted to win. We really tried our best, but it just didn´t want to happen.

There you played a season with the Lithuanian legend Sarunas Jasikevicius. What memories do you have of his last season. What story do you have of him that you will never forget?

Sarunas is an amazing person foremost and was also an incredible player. When he was there, he was at the end of his career and he was nice to be around. I loved his stories and I was able to learn a lot from him on the court. We are still well connected today and talk often. He is a great coach now and I´m very happy that he is having success now as well.

You played 4 seasons with the Spanish legend Juan Carlos Navarro. What kind of an influence did he have on you and what kind of relationship did you have with him?

Juan was one of the most gifted players that I ever played with. What he did for the FC Barcelona organization and Spanish national team for so many years was out of the ordinary. His ability to score and lead the team was incredible. He didn´t speak much, but he was one of the nicest guys. He is very family orientated. He did so much for FC Barcelona. Being able to be around him and learn so much on a daily basis was very inspirational for me.

You played two seasons at Caja Laboral Vitoria with Dusko Ivanovic at. How do you remember his teaching and what valuable qualities could he give you that helped you become a better player?

Dusko was very important in my career at that time. He shaped me then to be a better playmaker. He taught me how I could put players in position at the right time. His advice made click with me and I believed that I could be a better playmaker. He also taught me to fight through pain and to never give up. He forced me to the limit. I began to see things through a different perspective. I didn´t agree with him at first, but that helped me develop a certain toughness and I learned to bounce back during adversary. I´m really grateful to him.

In your second season you were 22 and a very talented 15 year old Ricky Rubio was on the team. What do you remember him doing in a practice that never left your memory bank?

When you saw him then at age 15, he wasn´t the future, but already the present. He was that good. I saw things from him at age 15 that I didn´t see from players at age 25. His maturity and expertise at that age was extra ordinary. We all understood the hype. He didn´t need to score and made everyone around him better. He was a great leader. He is still playing at a high level today which is really inspirational. I came to the team and was 21 and he was 14. When we saw him practice with his youth team, we were all amazed at what he could do on the court. How he took care of little things on the court were amazing. It was a joy for all to watch. Luka Donic was a bit older when he began to dominate.

How has basketball in Europe changed since your days in Badalona? Is there anything you miss from the early days playing in the ACB?

Today teams play faster. The style also changed more since there are more Americans overseas now. Everyone is running more, quicker possessions and more three´s being shot. It is less structured now and the old fashioned game isn´t as visible anymore. But it is fun to see when teams play each other with different styles. There are more mental battles now. It is like a chess match. All you can do is to adapt as much as possible.

You played a very good World Championships in Turkey in 2010 as well as a very good Olympics in 2012. What tournament do you honestly feel did you play your best?

Our best time with the national team was from 2010-2016. We should of won medals those years, but lost close games that we know that we should of won. We lost because of small details, being nervous and making bad decisions in crucial moments. I really wanted to win a medal for my country. I feel like we deserved more than what we reached.

How memorable was your 32 points in the 2010 World Cup win over arch rival Argentina? Is this a game that you enjoy rewatching?

I never rewatch games of mine. I will watch highlights every so often. I think that when I retire one day, then I will have more time for things like that. I will be bitter and watch my old games and suffer. But I will remember moments like this and live with joy. I will watch my old games then with a different perspective. Now I´m focused most on continuing to learn and improve my game as best as possible.

What has it meant to you being a teammate with Tiago Splitter in the national team and also in Spain? Is he a close second to being the greats Brazilin player of all-time behind Oscar Schmidt?

It is tough to tell since my country has had many great players over the years. I wasn´t alive when we won Gold and Silver medals at the Fiba World Cup. I heard that that generation had incredible players. I watched Oscar play and that generation as well as my generation had great players as well. Spliter had an incredible career being All Euroleague and won an NBA title. His career was cut short due to a hip injury. He could have had a longer and had an even better career. We had so many great players that it wouldn´t be fair to others if he was behind Oscar. But he was one of the best Brazilian players. He had a huge impact.

Please list your 5 all-time best teammates in your career? I´m sure Tiago Splitter is on this list.

It is very hard to name just 5 players since I had so many great teammates. I will list a few bigs since they always made my life so much easier on the court. Tiago Splitter, Ante Tomic who was so smart and my current teammate Giorgi Shermadini. I have an unbelievable connection to him. I owe him a lot. I can name so many others like Rudy Fernandez, Ricky Rubio, Juan Carlos Navarro or Kobe Bryant. I could add 20 more guys.

In the two years that you played in the NBA who was the toughest player you battled and who was your toughest foe in Europe?

In the NBA, I remember Russell Westbrook being so quick and explosive in his prime. Steph Curry also. You blinked and lost him. In Europe, my toughest were Rubio, Diamantidis, Spanoulis, Lull Etc.

Please list your own personal NBA and Euroleague Mount Rushmore.

Steph Curry, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Lebron James And Shaq

Dimitrios Diamantidis, Vasilios Spanoulis, Juan Carlos Navarro, Kyle Hines and Luis Scola

Who is your Goat?

Michael Jordan. Steve Nash and Jason Kidd inspired me growing up.

Thanks Marcelinho for the chat.

The Miles Vs D´Monte Brown Basketball Conversation Volume 3

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.

Thanks Dmonte for talking to germanhoops.com. mI forgot to ask you before the game what your nickname was. I called you Mr acrobatic. I hope that was Ok? You were really incredible with your athleticism. What is your proper nickname?

Yes it is nice.

A tough 72-57 loss in Rhondorf. That was not how the team wanted to perform. How tough and long was the ride home? Did you reflect a little on the loss and have ideas what the team could do better in the next game?

It was a tough loss for us. I spent the long ride home trying to think of ways how we can win together as a team.

The first quarter was good scoring from both teams, but the second quarter became more defensive. What adjustments did the teams make?

Both teams were struggling to shoot the three. Both teams were trying to find a rhythm.

The third quarter was back and forth and you had the slim 2 point lead. But in the fourth quarter, they began with a 12-0 run. Did that cut the Fellbach throats?

Yes, big shots win games.

Rhondorf did a good job on Jonathan Zeisberger. How tough was it getting through their wall in the zone in the fourth quarter?

I honestly think that we lost the game on ourselves. We couldn´t defend the three point line and didn´t rebound well. When we take that away, we win for sure.

24 turnovers against Reutlingen and 25 turnovers against Rhondorf. How do you explain the problems of not being able to take care of the ball?

We have to all take care of the ball better.

You had a 23/5/3/2 game but 4 turnovers. Is turnovers your biggest own focus?

I tried to get warmed up, but my biggest focus for this week is to win games and come back stronger and work on everything at practice to be better for this week.

You next play Speyer. They are a tough team. What will be key to getting the win?

We have to believe in ourselves, trust each other and learn from the last two losses. We have to be ready and get better at practice. We have to be focused for Speyer.

Thanks D´Monte for the chat.

Ex NBA Player Kyle Guy Puts On A Show Leading La Laguna Tenerife Past The Skyliners 104-94 In Eurocup Play

The last weeks have been splendid for the Skyliners as they had been winning something very refreshing as in the last years, it was more losing. Currently they were riding a potent 5 game winning streak and had a solid 2-1 record in Eurocup play and were riding a 2 game winning streak in that competition. Their next Eurocup foe was Spanish ACB team La Laguna Tenerife that had a solid 3-1 record in the ACB in second place and were 2-1 in Eurocup action. They are an organization that played in the ACB from 1983-1991 and then left and returned back in 2010. They are a team that had some interesting players with ties to Germany with Tim Abromaitis and Aaron Dornekamp that had very special ties to the Skyliners as he won the Fiba Eurocup with Frankfurt a decade ago. They also had many other interesting players like former NBA players Marcelinho Huertas, Kyle Guy (188-SG-1997, college: Virginia) and Vincent Hunter. On a cool Autumn evening both clubs met in Frankfurt and fans saw a potent first half by the Skyliners and an even stronger second half by La Laguna Tenerife who exploded for 43 points in the third quarter snatching the lead back which set the foundation for the 104-94 Eurocup win. The guests from Span shot only 22% from outside at the break and had 5 turnovers and after 40 minutes finished at 39% and had 8 turnovers. “The summary of the game pretty much was our 10 minutes in the third quarter where we scored 43 points. We finally made shots and made hustle plays. I don´t ever remember scoring so many points in one quarter in my career”, smiled ex Braunschweig forward Tim Abromaitis. The Skyliners scored well for 40 minutes, but allowed more than double the points in the second half than what they allowed in the first half. “One good half and one bad half sums it up for us. We were the better team in the first half playing great team basketball. However in the second half, we really struggled with boxing out and defense”, stressed Skyliner German Radii Caisin. “They punched us first in the first half. We found our game in the second half. We shared the ball nicely and had 26 assists and 8 turnovers and forced turnovers. We haven´t really shot the ball well from outside this season, but tonight we did”, added ex Miami Heat Kyle Guy.

Ethan Happ at the FT line

Both teams began finding a good rhythm in the first possessions of the first quaretr as La Laguna Tenerife got consecutive three´s from sniper Kyle Guy while the Skyliners got a trey from ex Syracuse guard Judah Minitz and an offensive rebound and put back by ex Bonn forward Till Pape. However the Skyliners then went on a 10-2 run to lead 17-8. In the run, Frankfurt upped their defensive intensity and just played real physical which the guests couldn´t come to terms with leading to tough contested shots. The Skyliners shared the ball very well getting 5 points from ex Indiana University (NCAA) forward Race Thompson who sparkled with a massive dunk and trey while ex Syracuse guard Judah found his spots really well early hit a turnaround shot and ex Virginia Tech (NCAA) guard Nahiem Alleyne scored inside on the pretty back door pass from ex NBA player Ryan Archidiacono. The Skyliners stifled Tenerife with their potent on ball pressure and disrupted their pick and roll. The guests couldn´t muster much offense except free throws from ex Wisconsin (NCAA) forward Ethan Happ and a trey by ex Houston (NCAA) guard Wesley Van Beck. The Skyliners counted with a trey from ex St Louis (NCAA) guard Isaiah Swope and Mintz added a floater in the offensive attack as the Skyliners led 22-14 after 10 minutes. “The Skyliners came out more ready and were more physical than us”, said Tim Abromaitis. The Skyliners shot 50% from the 2 point area and 60% from outside and had 11 rebounds and 4 turnovers while La Laguna Tenerife shot 23% from the field and 27% from outside and had 6 rebounds and 3 turnovers.

Judah Mintz with the mid distance shot

In the second quarter both teams were able to generate runs, but the Skyliners were able to keep the comfortable 43-31 advantage at half-time. The Spanish side had the better start going on a quick 8-2 run to suddenly only trail 24-22. In the run the guests got more aggressive attacking the paint area and had more space to operate something they lacked in the first quarter. Hunter added 4 points with free throws and lay in´s while Kyle Guy scored back to back buckets again only this time both were on the drive. He was able to get to the rim so easily, because his speed was elite. Guy also delivered a sweet no look pass for Hunter´s lay in. Frankfurt let up a bit with their intensity, but woke up as they punched back with a lethal 17-3 run to gain the overwhelming 41-25 advantage. In the run, the German side were led by Judah Mintz who supplied 6 points as his aggressive offense punished the guests, while Till Pape added a trey and ex Chemnitz forward Roman Bedime and Alleyne scored baskets inside. The Skyliners were playing energetic team basketball while on defense remained aggressive and physical, but Tenerife did have some misfortune missing some open looks. The Skyliners couldn´t hold the momentum until the break as the Spanish side finished strong erasing some of the Skyliners big lead going on a 6-2 run to trail only by 12 points. In the run, Tenerife got 3 points from 216Cm ex Euroleague player Giorgi Shemadini and a trey from Uruguay guard Bruno Fitipaldo who is in his eight season with La Laguna Tenerife. “The second quarter was a game of runs. They continued to hit shots well and we didn´t rotate well on defense”, stated Tim Abromaitis. The Skyliners shot 55% from the 2 point area and 41% from the three point line and had 18 rebounds and 6 turnovers while La Laguna Tenerife shot 38% from the 2 point area and 22% from the three point line.

Till Pape at the FT line

The turning point of the game came in the third quarter as La Laguna Tenerife exploded for a crazy 43 points to lead 74-66. The guests punched Frankfurt first with a lethal 17-5 run to steal the lead back at 49-48. Kyle Guy was instrumental again in the run scoring 8 times as he dropped 2 three pointers and also added free throws. He finished the game as top scorer with 26 points and seems to really enjoy the Eurocup competition. “Every ball I shoot tends to be hit or miss. Airball or swish. I hit my shoots fairly well tonight, I like these rims. It was my night”, stated Kyle Guy. Abromaitis also connected on a trey and Hunter scored again in the paint. Tenerife also began to be more aggressive on the offensive glass getting an offensive rebound and put back from Van Beck while running on transition better getting baskets from Guy and Hunter as Tenerife led 55-54. Frankfurt got 3 points from Mintz and a trey from Thomas Klepeisz to stay close. The guests were defending a lot more aggressively and had an offense that worked like clock work and ball movement that was elite. The Spanish team upped their lead to 72-57 going on a 17-2 run. In the run, they received 7 points from ex NBA player Marcelino Huertas who added 7 points with a pull up jumper and trey after his shot hadn´t fallen in the first half. They also got a trey from Van Beck on transition, an offensive rebound and put back from Abromaitis and a trey from ex Unicaja Malaga guard Jamie Fernandez. However La Laguna Tenerife couldn´t keep the momentum until the buzzer allowing the Skyliners to come back on a 9-2 run to trail by 8 points. In the run, the Skyliners got ood production from race Thompson with 5 points and a lay in by Caisin and free throws by Mintz. Thompson seemed to be on a poster from a Tim Abromaitis dunk or wasn´t he? “That was my first dunk of the season. I don´t think he was on the poster. He was beside me. I´m more concerned about getting the 2 points than a poster”, commented Tim Abromaitis. “They began to hit shots better and we were always a step behind. Their off ball screen also worked better”, stressed Radii Caisin. “We came out with more physicality and with more intensity. We played with more purpose at both ends. We made the needed adjustments”, said Kyle Guy. “We hit our first shots and got more comfortable. We forced more turnovers and made easy baskets”, added Tim Abromaitis. La Laguna Tenerife shot shot 54% from the 2 poi t area and 34% from the parking lot and had 28 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Skyliners shot 51% from the 2 point area and 47% from the parking lot and had 24 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

Kyle Guy from downtown

In the fourth quarter La Laguna Tenerife did a super job managing the lead and never allowed the Skyliners to lead by less than 6 points. La Laguna Tenerife were able to extend their lead to 84-69 with a rapid 10-3 run. Kyle Guy remained hot adding 5 points with a lay in and a tough off balance in your face trey of Race Thompson. “Any shot that I take, I have practiced before and I take each shot with the utmost confidence. I always stay level headed. I´m never to high or too low”, commented Kyle Guy. Hunter also added 5 points as Guy also found him once with a pretty no look pass. The Skyliners never gave up and bounced back with a 8-0 run as Bedime and ex Chemnitz guard Will Christmas added lay in´s and Swope hit a trey to trail 84-76. However La Laguna Tenerife always had an answer and just kept the offensive pressure on as ex easyCredit BBL player Tim Abromaitis hit consecutive three´s and Fernandez also added one as the guests led easily 95-81. Time was running down, but Mr Iso Iisaiah Swope gave some added hope for the Skyliners as he scored all points in the 8-3 run to trail 98-89. Swope made 3 free throws a lay in and a trey. After an offensive rebound and lay in by Hunter, Frankfurt countered with Klepeisz free throws and a Caisin lay in to trail only 100-94, but there was less than a minute to play. Tenerife closed out the game with a Van Beck lay in and Fernandez free throws. “We imposed our rhythm and didn´t play too fast. We hit open shots and played good defense until the end”, said Tim Abromaitis. “We never gave up. We played until the end giving 100% and did the best we could”, added Radii Caisin. La Laguna Tenerife were led by Kyle Guy with 26 points. Vincent Hunter added 21 points and Tim Abromaitis and Wesley Van Beck added 13 points a piece while the Skyliners were led by Judah Mintz with 20 points and Isaiah Swope added 15 points. La Laguna Tenerife shot 54% from the 2 point area and 39% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 8 turnovers while the Skyliners shot 51% from the 2 point area and 52% from outside and had 31 rebounds and 13 turnovers,

Marvin Nduche(Dragons Rhondorf) Makes Brilliant Pro B Debut Getting the Defensive Seal Of Approval From Offensive Ace D´Monte Brown

Last weekend in the first quarter of the Dragons Rhondorf-Fellabch game, there was an offensive show being put on from athletic scoring guard D´Monte Brown who simply had the hot hand. He demonstrated his 3 level scoring and scored with ease time in and time out again. After 10 minutes, he had paved 14 points on to the stat sheet and it looked like he was on the verge of having a possible career night in the Pro B. He had balled the last 2 seasons in the Regionalliga and averaged 24,0ppg with Aschersleben and Weimar Culture City and even exploded for 40 points against Braunschweig. Could he do it again at a higher level in the Pro B? However at the end of 40 minutes, he had produced 23 points, which was still another good night for him and above his average. It was another good day at the office for him.  Dragons head coach Max Becker had made an adjustment and put young German Marvin Nduche (190-SG -2008) on him in the second quarter and he was able to stop Brown on a few possessions  and he would score no points in the second quarter as Nduche simple showed lock down qualities. It was also the German´s Pro B debut and it was only logical that he was super focused and motivated to give a memorable performance. He even got a feeling what trash talking feels like at the pro level. “We were talking during the game. He told me it wasn´t easy playing against me and said I´m a really annoying defender”, smiled Marvin Nduche. The German has had that lock down defender in him already in younger youth leagues. “I love to defend the opponent´s best player. I did a good job defending Davi Remagen in the JBBL. I love putting 100% focus on the opponent”, said Marvin Nduche. The German also sparkled against Fellbach´s other great scorer Jonathan Zeisberger blocking him twice. “Marvin is a young great defender that does a lot of the things not seen on the stat sheet. He does whatever the team needs to win and had a big impact against us. He will be great this season. He will prove a lot of players and teams wrong. I´m looking forward to seeing that happen”, warned D´Monte Brown.

After a disastrous fourth quarter and loss in Frankfurt 72 hours earlier, the Dragons Rhondorf returned home and needed a positive reaction against top team Fellbach. After 40 minutes they had begun a new winning streak with an incredible 72-57 win. “We were a bit shakey at the start, but I learned that you can come back with good defense and that is what we did. Our second five did many key things for the win. We played as a team”, stressed Marevin Nduche. The Dragons Rhondorf trailed 47-45 after three quarters, but totally stepped up in the first few minutes of the fourth quarter exploding on a 12-0 run to set the foundation for the win. “Coach Becker told us to stick to the basics and just trust ourselves. We concentrated on Brown and Zeisberger and had the wall in the zone that slowed them down as a team. We had the momentum then, and we were all flying around and played with extreme hustle. Everybody helped each other”, stated Marvin Nduche. At the end of 40 minutes, the stat line of Marvin Nduche read very nicely with 7 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 blocks. He had logged 20 minutes and shot 40% from the field and even netted two three pointers. “This game was a lot of fun. I liked playing in front of the fans. I liked how everyone supported each other. If I had to give myself a German school grade mark then it would be a 2”, smiled Marvin Nduche who´s toughest defenders so far in his career have been Noah Koch and Davi Remagen.

The German who compares his game to a mix of Jrue Holiday and Jaylen Brown is a 17 year old 190cm guard who is playing his third season with NBBL (U-19) team Bonn/Rhondorf. He made big strides last season as he went from averaging 3,5ppg, 1,0rpg, 1,0apg in the 2024-2025 to averaging 10.0ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.5apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 63.2%, 3PT: 26.5%, FT: 71.4% last season. At the same he has the massive challenge of fighting for Pro B minutes which isn´t easy with his competition with Malik Idbihi and Tom Viehofer. “My role with the Pro B is challenge my teammates putting up the intensity in practice and in games always being ready to step up. I´m a defensive motor and like trying to be a lock down defender, but at the same time also being able to display my offensive skills”, warned Marvin Nduche. His strengths on the court are visible and he understands that being in the lab is very important now for his future development. “I would say my catch and shoot three is my biggest strength on offense and my on defense just not letting my guy get by me and just being on him at all times. I want to get better at taking more responsibility on offense and being able to beat my defender better on 1-1 situations”, commented Marvin Nduche. He also has exact visions of what his future is and do the other young teammates motivate him to work harder? “My goal is definitely to become a pro. Guys Like Malik Idbihi and Carlo Schmid definitely motivate me. We are best friends”, added Marvin Nduche. It will be interesting to observe how Marvin Nduche continues to develop this season. One thing is for sure. It will be an extra treat to visit the Dragon Dome as new performances of his like against Fellbach will surely happen again.

Rookie Modern Day Big Man Isaac Johnson(Rigas Zelli) Continues To Work Hard To Become That Big Fish In The Basketball Tank Overseas

Isaac Johnson (213-C-2000, college: Hawaii, agency: Slash Sports) is a 26 year old 213cm center playing his rookie season overseas with Rigas Zelli (Latvia-LBL). He began his basketball career at American Fork High school. He then played a season at the University of Oregon (NCAA) averaging 2.5ppg, 1.2rpg. He then played 2 seasons at Utah State University (NCAA) averaging 6.6ppg, 3.1rpg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 84.6% and 3.9ppg, 1.9rpg. He then finished at the University of Hawaii (NCAA) averaging 14.1ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 88.5%. He played NBA Summer League with the Philadelphia 76ers averaging 7.4ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 80.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against Rostock.

Thanks Isaac for talking to germanhoops.com Your playing your rookie season overseas with Rigas Zelli (Latvia-LBL). Before we talk about basketball, I have to ask you about a phrase in Latvian “”liela zivs” This is Big Fish. You got that nickname in 7thgrade when you were already 6,4. Do you see this nickname following you around overseas?

Hopefully the nickname follows me around in the sense that people will want to be excited about who I am as a player because of how I play. The energy I like to bring, especially when I play well, is spurred on by the fans and a fun part of that in the past has been my Nickname.

As a guy who hails from Utah, your used to cold winters and it won´t be any different in Latvia. How have you adjusted to life there? What has stood out so far in their culture?

So far, my wife and I have been adjusting very well. We have our regular amenities that help make us comfortable, and we have enjoyed learning some of the history of Latvia, seeing some amazing sights, and of course meeting some amazing people.

What kind of an experience has it been playing for RigasZelli (Latvia-LBL). What have you learned to appreciate most about the organization?

So far my experience playing for this club has been so positive. The people of this club really care about making our lives as easy as possible so that we can give all of our attention to playing basketball. They are great people, who are personable and so nice. One thing I appreciate most about this club is how professional everything is done. We are professional basketball players, and should be held to that standard, but the coaching staff as well as all other staff also hold themselves to the same standard of being professionals in their own right.

What has it been like playing for head coach RokasKondratavicius? What have you appreciated most about his basketball philosophy?

It has been an honor for me to play for coach, even in such a short time. He is a great communicator and really wants to make sure his coaching is received well. He gives corrections as any coach does, but also backs up his corrections and coaching with positive reinforcement which I have seen through my experience as a very successful trait. I appreciate his willingness to work with the players and other coaches, he isn’t afraid to be a part of workouts or drills.

What has been the biggest adjustment on the court for you coming from the NCAA? Has big man Klavs Cavars been a mentor for you during the early going?

I think the biggest adjustment this far is just the pace of play. Not just in how fast people can get up and down the court, but in the small movements and pauses in order to create deception with their attack or set up for others to attack. It is fun for me to learn from other players that have been pro for so long, both from talking and especially observing. (Klavs has not been at practice yet because he is still with the National team.)

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 213cm center. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I think I would best compare my game to Dirk or Porzingis. I’m able to stretch the floor, have a good feel on offense and am an underrated passer.

You fill the stat sheet well for a big man. Would you describe yourself as a modern day big man?

I would say yes, I like to think my game is not just being a stretch big, but also being able to play inside and make plays with the ball in my hand.

You can score and rebound well. What other strength does your offensive game incorporate?

I think, as I stated before, that my passing ability is underrated. I am able to make passes and decisions that show my IQ and allow me to be more than just a big man who can score.

How would you describe the development of your defensive game as a rookie? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I think my defense is ok, but definitely has some improvements to make. I was able to average 1 block per game during my senior year, and I would like to build on that, as well as increasing my effectiveness in ball screen coverages.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player?

The biggest part of my game that I am working on now is my confidence. I am a really good player, but at times, in the short term, I doubt myself instead of having the confidence that I will make the right decision regardless of the outcome. I am also working on being in better shape. The better shape I am in, the easier offense, defense and rebounding become.

Last summer you played with the Philadelphia 76ers (NBA Summer League in Las Vegas) averaging 7.4ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 80.0%. What kind of an experience was that? What was the most meaningful advice you got besides keep working hard?

The experience I had there was amazing! The staff and organization that the 76’ers have built and continue to build is modeled around great people who have immense basketball experience and knowledge. It taught me a lot about what it means to be a professional basketball player, and the type of player I am/need to still become.

You played against many big prospects in Las Vegas. Was there one guy you remember that stuck out most?

I would say the prospect who stuck out the most to me was actually my teammate, Lebaron Philon. He was a super skilled player who worked really hard on both sides of the ball. It was awesome to see and great to play alongside him.

You were at the University of Oregon for a season and played only 13 NCAA games. There were 4 centers on the squad including future NBA player Nfaly Dante. How tough were these two years. What could you gain and learn from this experience?

I was able to learn a lot about myself as a person as well as what it took to become a really good player. That year was difficult in the sense that I realized how I needed to make my expectations realistic. Of course you want to set high goals and work to achieve them, but also understand your role on the team and how it can change throughout a year.

You played your last NCAA game at Oregon against Utah State and then ended up going there. You played 2 seasons averaging 6.6ppg, 3.1rpg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 84.6%and 3.9ppg, 1.9rpg. It seemed like it was a coaching roller coaster as there were 3 coaches in 3 years. How do you remember these years. Was there one coach that helped you the most?

I am very fond of my time at Utah State even though I had a new coach each year there. I would say the coach who helped me the most was Danny Sprinkle, who is now head coach of the Washington Huskies. He helped me to gain confidence, understand my role on that team well, and learn to take criticism and coaching and interpret them into what I really needed to hear.

You reached the NCAA tournament 4 times. Was your 19 points in the win over TCU one of your fondest moments there?

One of the years, I was a red-shirt, and both of my other years at Utah State, along with my one year at Hawaii. I think that’s win will always hold a special place in my heart, but I would say my overall fondest moment was making it to the tournament with Hawaii. Even though we lost, it was the whole experience of being the leader to help carry our team to the tournament for the first time in 10 years.

You then finished at the University of Hawaii (NCAA) averaging 14.1ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 88.5%. It was your break out season. What kind of a player did you become there?

I would say I really was able to realize the type of dominant, and hard working player I can be while there. I became much more confident in my shooting, decision making, and overall trust of my coaches, team and self. I really caught a glimpse of the type of player I can continue to be in the future.

You had 2 massive games in 2 buzzer beater games against Call State Irvine and Fullerton scoring 22 and 15 points. What game was most exciting for you?

I would say whenever we had the chance to play them was exciting, and always a battle. But every time we beat them was my favorite. They are well coached, and a good team, and proving we were better coached and a better team was always such a good feeling.

How did head coach Eran Ganot give you that last vital push to prepare you for a professional career?

He helped me to fall in love with the game of basketball again. He helped make the game fun. Because I was able to realize the type of player I am led by his coaching, he allowed me to realize the possibilities I have playing professional.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Yacine Toumi?

Me. Every time. No questions asked.

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

I think I would say Benedict Mathurin

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

In sense of in a basketball game, or in sense of overall teammate are two different answers. But my favorite overall teammates, including both are:

Hunter Erickson

Landon Brenchley

Taylor Funk

Harry Rouhliadeff

Gytis Nemeiksa

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron, Steph, Dirk, Larry Bird

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron

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

I am unaware of these movies.

Thanks Isaac for the chat.

A Decade Of 17 Stories And A New Challenge in Trier For Terrell Harris

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Terrell Harris in Frankfurt 2026

The easyCredit BBL season is in full swing, but there are always new guys coming in at the start as guys are injured. That happened with the Vet-Concept Gladiators Trier and they reacted bringing in a real veteran with easyCredit BBL, Pro A and international experience in Denmark, Turkey, Italy and Romania with Terrell Harris. He came to Trier having played 277 professional games. I read the press release and looked on my calendar and marked the cup date against the Skyliners as that would finally be the time again where I would see him play live again. The last time I had seen him play live was in the winter of 2021 during Covid when he was playing for the Niners Chemnitz. I entered the Skyliners arena and was disappointed when I didn´t see him on the roster for the game. I reported on a very exciting game which the Skyliners had won in superb fashion being led by their potent guard duo of Judah Mintz and Isaiah Swope combing for 34 points. After the game, I was in usual interview mode making the rounds and interviewed Isaiah Swope. Then out of nowhere, Terrell Harris stood there in front of me in mid question. I popped up and greeted him with a strong hand shake while Swope sat there waiting a bit bewildered. We said our hello´s and then he apologized to Swope for interrupting the interview. After the interview, I went to him and we had some small talk. He remembered our last meeting more than 5.5 years ago and even our photo we took, but the other guy who posed with us at had slipped my mind. “I remember that photo that we took. Virgil Matthews was also in the picture with us. I also remember our first interview a decade ago when I was a rookie with Pro B team Iserlohn. I also know that I´m 2-0 in Frankfurt when I was playing. We been in touch for a decade Miles, blessings to you and your career and I’ve been blessed to go a decade long in this overseas hoop life. Extremely grateful for year 10”, stressed Terrell Harris. I have been fortunate to interview Terrell Harris now 17 times in the last decade and it is always a pleasure talking basketball with the Florida native.

Virgil Matthews, Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Terrell Harris in Frankfurt in 2021

In the summer of 2025, I got a text message from the ex Georgia College & State University (NCAA2) guard asking me if he  could get him some extra media exposure on eurobasket.com and my blog German hoops and I was more than happy to do it. We had done 15 interviews in the last 9 years and it had been a while since I had last interviewed him. It had been in May 2022 when he had balled with Crailsheim, so I was happy he had reached out since our contact had ebbed a bit the last years. He had missed the entire 2024-2025 season due to injury and wanted to get his name out again. He found not one, but two teams last season splitting the season with CS Valcea 1924 Rm Valcea (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 7.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 78.3% and then returned back to Germany and suited up with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg (Germany-BBL) averaging  8.9ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 66.7%. “Last year was tough for me missing 18 months then getting the chance to play with both teams without having training camp and just fitting in on the fly. I’m sure I could’ve put up better numbers because I still have some more game left in me. I was just trying to fit in as much as possible without causing in interruption because both teams were already built and flowing”, stated Terrell Harris. In Romania, he was finally able to play the game he loves again, but getting back into the groove wasn´t simple. “I was still trying to get over the mental hurdle in Romania of returning to the court. Also we played with a two Romanians must be on the court rule which limited my playing time. I’m fortunate to be a part of Valcea history and roster. It’s a part of my story. By the time I start to feel like myself again, Ludwigburg came calling”, remembered Terrell Harris.

Terrell Harris in Frankfurt in 2026

The American who enjoyed being teammates with Euroleague player TJ Shorts in Crailsheim then returned back to Germany and had a new challenge with Ludwigsburg. Despite being there for only a short time, he got a lot out of the experience that didn´t allow team success. “Ludwigsburg was nice to play at even though I got there late. I enjoyed the coaching staff and players. 2 more games won and we would’ve been the number 6 seed. I just wish I was there from August with that certain group of guys who needed my leadership at the guard position. I think they would’ve been better from a mental standpoint”, stressed Terrell Harris. Ludwigsburg was definitely a learning experience and is blessed that he could spend time with the MHP Riesen organization. “It was extremely tough to get off a plane at midnight go through medicals to get cleared then have a walk through then play the next day vs a team like Chemnitz who were fighting for a playoff spot at the time. I did the best I could with the role I had with Lubu! I’m grateful they gave me a shot to return back to Germany basketball after 3 years. I leaned to stay ready and swallow pride because your role can be way different than what you’re accustomed to through the years”, stated Terrell Harris. Last season, he had a really good game against his future team Trier. Did he ever think that he would land there? “No to be honest I didn’t think I would land in Trier. I was home waiting for a call but Trier wasn’t on my radar. Glad Coach called for me to join a winning program though. So far it’s been fun”, smiled Terrell Harris who will tip his hat to a friendly 1-1 game in practice with teammate Eli Brooks. “Eli is young and quick. At 33 and a knee injury I don’t think I can stay in front of him. Unless I get 5 fouls. He’s a great player, I love his game. 1 on 1 is more his game not mine“, smiled Terrell Harris.

Now the scoring guard who always had versatility in his game has a new challenge once again in Germany with the Vet-Concept Gladiators Trier and it is his 6th club in Germany with Iserlohn, Rostock, Chemnitz, Cralsheim and Ludwigsburg that he has played with. It is no surprise that he has returned back to Germany. Coming to a place where he has always been successful. “I’ve been very fortunate enough to build a career around Germany. I’m blessed that the GM and coaches still feel as if I can help contribute to their club. I guess my career was supposed to play out like this. I embrace everything outside of basketball in order to make the on the court easier. I have learned to get out and meet people and just connect with culture off the court to make life easier on the court. I struggled with that my first few years”, remembered Terrell Harris. There is a lot of history in Trier and the club is back in the BBL after a long tenure in the Pro A and are very successful in the BBL. It was not difficult to comprehend why he joined the team. “I wanted to be a part of winning and help a winning culture. What Trier built here the last 3 to 4 years has been amazing. I remember when the club was Pro A and struggling to become a top team back in 2019 and 2020. It is a class act organization. From management to coaching to players. Seems like everyone is on the same page here. Which it shows on the court. I’m glad I can write about this chapter of my career in this city because I know it’s going to be about winning”, stressed Terrell Harris. He is playing for a rising coach in Jacques Schneider and is ready to embrace his new role. “Coach is very straightforward and honest with his players but at the same time allow them to star in their role. Every player knows their role to the fullest. My role is to add on to everything this team already possesses. Play hard, play tough, play defense, and share the ball. I do not need to be a superhero here”, warned Terrell Harris.  An interesting stat in his great career is that from 2013-2024, he always averaged in double figures in scoring. However he was always a versatile player and fills the stat sheet like no other. At 33, he knows exactly how he will help his new organization be successful. “I want to continue to play make and prove I can still contribute to a top team at a top level. Just give these guys whatever I’m called upon to give”, warned Terrell Harris. It will be interesting to see how he adjusts to his new team. Like last season he came late to the club missing all of training camp. Unfortunately, I will miss the next BBL meeting in Frankfurt with Trier and Harris, because on that day, I will be calling a game elsewhere. However one thing is for sure. There will be a 18th story between Terrell Harris and I sometime. It just couldn´t be any other way.

Niko Jerkic Will Never Forget Legendary Coach Svetislav Pesic Calling His Name In His BBL Debut Against Braunscwehig

Pic Credit; FC Basketball

Niko Jerkic (202-F-2007) is a 19 year old 202cm forward from Croatia that is playing with FC Bayern Munich. He began his career in Germany in the ratiopharm Ulm organization. He played NBBL reaching the final in 2025 and also played for their Pro B team Orange Academy and their Regionalliga team. Last season he played with FC Bayern Muenchen Second Team (Germany-ProB, starting five) averaging 13.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 70.0%, played also with their NBBL team averaging 17.8ppg, 5.0rpg, 4.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 73.2% and also played 1 easyCredit BBL game. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the summer of 2026 about basketball.

Thanks Niko for talking to germanhoops.com. I know your Dad since a long time. I remember meeting you and Roko in Berlin in 2025 at NBBL top 4. I remember him telling you I was a writer. What other things do you remember him saying about me?

He told me that you are in the Basketball scene a long time and a very good writer. Also that you are a commentator.

How did you get a love to basketball and when did you start to play the game?

First I started to play football and my dad was watching the games, I never touched the ball. Then after we had a conversation and I switched to basketball. I think I started playing at 7 years old. My dad always shot with me outside, that´s when I really fell in love with basketball.

Please name your career stops from when you began to play until you came to orange academy jbbl?

Scanplus Baskets U10

Ulm U12, U14 and the JBBL two years with Orange Academy

Who were your early basketball inspirations? Was it a mix of German and Croatian players?

When I was 12 years old, it was always Lamelo Ball. I always watched his mixtapes and game highlights. Now I really like to watch players I get compared to like Dzanan Musa or Mario Hezonja. Those are my main inspirations right now. But I also have more players I really enjoy watching like Mike James or Dwayne Bacon.

Was your dad like a mentor for you? How has he helped your game most?

Yes he is my mentor my whole life. He trained me since I was little and supported me the most with my mom, watching every and giving me tips during and after the game. He even watched team practices when I was young.

You played JBBL with Orange Academy. How do you remember those early years in Ulm. Did you have another type of mentor besides your dad?

My first year no, my second year yes, it was my former coach Jochen Lotz. I enjoyed playing for him, because he saw my talent and gave me freedom to play. He pushed me every practice to go harder especially on defense.

In the 2023-2024 season you made the jump to the NBBL team and won ANGT over Zalgiris. What memories do you have of winning that title?

We were a really talented team and had a deep roster. Our Chemistry was awesome and it was a lot of fun to play in Dubai. What I remember the most is having fun at the pool with my guys.

You also got your first real experience playing with men playing for BBU 01 Ulm (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 8.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 23.7%, FT: 73.7%. How vital was this time? How did your game then profit most from Regionalliga ball?

It helped me make the jump to senior basketball. That was my first year playing against grown men and also helped me to jump to the next league Pro b. I had freedom from our Coach Tim Roleder, that helped me trying stuff against better players and taking the next step.

How valuable was having a guy like Noa Essengue as a teammate and a guy you could battle in practice? What are your memories with him?

He is obviously a great player, he plays for the bulls now. I only practiced with him shortly before the ANGT, I would describe him as a quiet guy, but very nice to talk to. He carried our team that tournament.

In the 2024-2025 season you got your first Pro B experience and played NBBL with Ulm. How did your game profit most under Florian Flabb?

In the NBBL I was given freedom and had the ball in my hands. In the Pro B I had a different kind of role more off ball because we had other guys. He pushed me every practice to get better and I had some great conversations with him during my time playing for him.

You reached the NBBL final in 2025 in Berlin and averaged with ratiopharm Ulm U19 team (Germany-NBBL)16.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 75.0%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 75.4%. How tough was it losing to Munich in the final? What do you feel was the difference?

I thought that we deserved to win, because we worked so hard towards this final game. At the end they just brought more energy to the game and we didn´t step up like we should have.

You played on many teams with Ulm with Swiss army knife Joel Cwik. How special of a player was he? Was he like a teammate mentor for you?

He wasn´t a mentor for me because we are almost the same age. He is a player that always brings energy with his dunks and defense. He is a all rounder who can do a bit of everything on the court and is also a great funny guy to be around.

When you look back at your years in Ulm, what kind of a player did you become there?

I think I developed good at Ulm. I became a player that can create for himself but also for others. I didn´t only develop on the court, but of the court I think I also became a better person, becauseIi was around mature and nice people.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 202cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a pro player who would best fit the description?

Just recently I was compared to Dzanan Musa. I like Mario Hezonja a lot and feel like I play like him, I´m just not as athletic.

You’re a player that fills the stat sheet really well. How big is versatility in your game?

I would describe myself as a Big Guard and Point Forward. I can shoot and score but I think my passing is a bit underrated. My defense improved a lot the last years.

You shot 39% in the Pro B with Munich. How do you see the development of your 3 pointer last season and what goals do you have with it this season?

I had a good shooting season, even though I was injured for a long time. My goal is definetly to go over 40 percent this season, which is possible.

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

As I said my defense improved a lot, because I guard smaller guards at practice to get better. Also through the first team here in Munich my defense improved because I´m guarding Euroleauge players. I want to be able to guard multiple positions when I am done developing.

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

This summer my focus is definitely on the athletic part, getting faster, more explosive and stronger. That is really what I need to become a pro. Of course I´m also working on my creating with the ball.

You played with FC Bayern Munich last season in the Pro B averaging 13.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 70.0%, played NBBL and 1 BBL game. What is the best thing about playing for this great organization?

It is a really great organization. All the coaches and the staff cares about the player. The professionalism of all coaches and staff is at a really high level. I´m grateful to play for this amazing club and get a chance to develop as a person and a player. I have everything that I need here in Munich.

What is it like being teammates with brother Roko? What do you like most about him as a player and person?

It´s so fun playing with my little brother and I´m so grateful to share the court with him. I hope we stay healthy this season so we can even play more together. He has so much potential, the way he scans the court as a point guard with his size is incredible. Of course he can also score and likes to get everybody involved. But when it gets time to takeover, he knows how to do it. His ceiling is set very high. He pushes me every workout and we spend a lot of time to getter of the court also.

How competitve are you guys? How many 1-1 games do you win in 10 tries?

We are both really competitive and like to win. Of course I win 10 times you don´t even have to ask. Maybe in the future it will change, but for now I got myself every time. He will say otherwise, because he is a liar.

Your game really picked up in Feb 2026 after a long injury. How tough were those first months fighting the injury and getting fit again?

It was definitely a hard time mentally, because I had the injury multiple times. I was in the weight room everyday and couldn´t touch a basketball, that´s what annoyed me the most. Thanks to the great coaches here in Bayern I got fit fast.

How tough was it losing NBBL playoffs to your ex team Ulm? You gave all you had with 55 points in 2 games. What was the difference in this series? Was Teo Milicic to much to handle?

Yeah Teo definitely gave us problems, with his abilities to score but also to pass. We couldn´t stop him. Also Endurance really gave us problems with his size and grabbing rebounds and dunking on people. But also players like Milo Murray or Kayan Yeboah who are very versatile helped Ulm win. If we would have had a complete roster I think we would have won the series. We had guys like Roko Jerkic, Nikolas Sermpezis and Andrija Susic missing the whole series. They´re also some main guys.

You made new strides last season. How did your season grow further with FC Bayern Munich?

Because of my Injury I missed half of the season, but still I think I did a solid job. Bayern is really letting me develop by giving me freedom and trying out new things in games. I also trained a lot with the first team, which really helped me to get better. When you practice with them and then go to Pro B, it seems so much easier. Every Coach wants the best for you and wants you to succeed, I really like this whole philosophy and the ideas of the club.

You made your BBL debut against Braunschweig scoring 1 point in 3 minutes. What will you always remember from that first BBL game?

I will always remember Coach Pesic calling my name to get subbed in. Especially debuting for such a legendary coach is awesome. My first free throw I was a bit nervous, but then I calmed down and made the second one. Also all the fans and players cheering for me was a very special moment.

What was it like playing for legend Svetislav Pesic? Do you remember having a meaningful conversation with him about basketball or life?

We had multiple conversations about basketball, he always tried to get me better at everything I did. He pushed me and always said I need to go harder and really compete.

If you had to pick 1 Munich BBL player who had the biggest impact on you what would it be?

Isaiah Mike

What are your personal goals for the 2026-2027 season?

I would like to end up in first place in the Pro B and have a great Season as a team and individually.

You also play for the Croatian youth national team. How is the stat of Croatian basketball? What young talents are coming up for the future?

Croatia has some very talented players, especially in the generation of 2010.

You played at the FIBA U16 European Championship Division B in Pitesti (Romania) winning Gold averaging 8.5ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 44.4%. What memories will you always have of winning that title?

We won because our team chemistry was great and we trained so much. I will always remember chilling with the guys at the hotels and having fun.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

I think the hardest person I ever had to guard is Xavier Rathan-Mayes. His skillset is so unique.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I will give you a Top 10 because I can’t decide. Not in order.

Milo Murray, Jervis Scheffs, Oliver Kullamae, Endurance Aiyamenkhue, Kayaan Yeboah, Caspar Vossenberg, Namik Muratovic, Andrija Susic, Teo and Zoran Milicic.

Please list your personal Croatian and German Mount Rushmore of all-time best 4 players?

Croatia: Drazen Petrovic, Toni Kukoc, Ivica Zubac, Mario Hezonja

Germany: Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroder, Franz Wagner, Isaac Bonga

Who is your GOAT?

Paul George

Thanks Niko for the chat.