Brian Harper is a 33 year old 208cm forward that is playing his 12th professional season and third in Germany and first with the Tigers Tuebingen. He played two seasons in Germany playing 66 BBL games combined with TBB Trier averaging 11.0ppg, 4.8rpg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 60.3% and with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-BBL) averaging 5.9ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 62.7%. He also played four seasons in Japan and also played in countries like Norway, Korea, Lebanon, Cyprus, Estonia and Israel. He began his basketball career at Paine (NCAA2) in 2003 and played 108 games in a four year career and as a senior averaged 16,6ppg and 6,9rpg. Last season he split time with Hapoel Ramat Gan Givataim (Israel-National League) playing 4 games averaging13.0ppg, 4.3rpg, in Feb.’18 moved to Cytavision Apoel Nicosia (Cyprus-Division A) playing 12 games averaging 12.8ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 75.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball. 

Brian welcome back to Germany. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

Hey Miles, thanks I’m happy to be back. I’m currently in LA but will be in Germany soon. Life is great and Basketball is always good.

Welcome back to Germany. You were away four seasons away. What did you miss the most from the country Germany and it’s basketball?

The thing I missed most about Germany would have to be its people. As for basketball I would have to say the level of professionalism and the quality of basketball. Also the fans in Germany always make it great to play there, they are some of the best in the world.

We have done 7 interviews in the past. Has time flown by since your playing time in Germany that brought to new places like Cyprus, Estonia and Israel?

Yeah time has flown by for sure. I’ve had a good time playing in many different countries these past 4 years, but I’m really excited to be back in Germany!

You signed with Pro A team Tigers Tuebingen of the Pro A. What were the main reasons for signing with the team that once played BBL?

I am super excited to be joining the Tubingen Tigers! I was looking for a situation this season where I could play for a great organization and compete with a team looking to win.

How difficult were the last months? At age 33, you were unsigned. Did you ever have any thoughts about possibly calling it quits as a professional?

Ask any professional basketball player it’s always tough waiting for the deal that you feel is right. I was lucky enough to have some opportunities come up these past few months, and even more fortunate to have found the deal I wanted. There are a lot of good ball players looking for a job so I’m thankful for this opportunity.

What do you remember from your duels against Tuebingen with Trier and Bremerhaven? Could you off the top of your head remember your record on the court against them? You must remember the first meeting since it was your first BBL game.

I remember the arena was packed with fans and it was a great atmosphere. I don’t remember my record against Tubingen, but I do remember playing them in my first BBL game and winning that game.

You had a 2-2 record in Germany against Tuebingen. Is there a game that still stands out or does their pink gym still remain active in your mind?

My first game against Tubingen stands out because it was my first BBL game so there is no way I could forget it. Out of all the gyms I’ve played in the pink gym is one I’m sure I’ll always remember.

Your coming to a struggling team that really needs wins. The club doesn’t want to say it, but it seems like you are a type of savior coming in. How excited are you for this new challenge?

I’m really excited to be joining The Tubingen Tigers! Every season has it’s challenges and obstacles, and as a team we will look to be successful throughout the rest of the season. My goal is to come in and do everything in my power to help the team win games.

You will be playing for head coach Alexsandar Nadjfeji. What memories do you have of him on the court? He was one of those guys that never seemed to get older and was still playing at a high level well into his 30’s

I remember Coach Nadjfeji always playing hard and being a great competitor.

What kind of role do you see yourself having with the Tigers Tuebingen? You have always been a consistent scorer. Is this something that will be a big focus besides other things?

I’m looking to come in and do whatever Coach Nadjfeji feels the team needs from me. I’ve always been able to score the ball, but I’m also looking to provide multiple things on both ends of the floor.

The BBL remembers you well with your amazing flights to the rim back in the day. How well has your athleticism been holding out as you continue to play into your 30’s?

My body feels great and I still feel like I’m athletic and explosive. I think fans can still expect to see some of the high flying they remember.

How has your game developed further in the last years since you last played in Germany. What do you believe are you doing better now than when you were balling in Germany?

I feel like my game has grown a lot in the last four years. I have added more to my offensive skill set and also have grown into an even better defensive player.

When guys get older, it seems like they can’t rest, but actually have to do more. There are many guys in the BBL that are old like Julius Jenkins, Derrick Allen, Immanuel Mcelroy that are still playing very well in their late 30’s. Are these guys role models for you as your return to Germany and continue to want to play well at a consistent rate?

Yeah those guys have set a blueprint on how to continue to play at a high level well into your 30’s. That’s for sure a goal of mine, and I’ve already had the pleasure of playing with and watching Derrick Allen work during our time in Bremerhaven. He is an ultimate professional and one of the hardest working players I’ve played with.

On what things are you still focusing on now to get better at? You shot the three extremely well in Israel and Cyprus last season. How much pride are you putting into your shooting now as you get older?

I’m focusing on continuing to get better at everything. I feel like if you stop trying to get better you are doing yourself an injustice. I definitely take pride in shooting the ball well. Shooting the 3 at a high rate is one of those things that I continue to stay focused on. Last season it definitely paid off .

You also played with Tartu Ulikool/Rock (Estonia-Alexela KML) playing 22 games averaging 12.6ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.0apg, Blocks-2 (1.3bpg), FGP: 61.1%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 55.0%; and played 11 FIBA Europe Cup games averaging 11.0ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 66.7%;and played 6 Baltic League: games averaging 12.8ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 88.0%. What kind of experience was it playing with top Estonian veteran Janar Talts? Did you exchange any BBL stories as he was teammates in 2004 with NBA player Marcin Gortat?

I had a real good time playing with Janar Talts. We did end up spending some time talking about our experiences playing in the BBL. I enjoyed my time in Estonia and learned a lot that season. I had a good time competing in the FIBA Euro Cup, and Baltic League!

You returned to Japan in 2016 to play with Tokyo Hachioji Trains (Japan-B League D3) averaging 14.6ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.1apg, Blocks-3 (1.3bpg), FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 63.2%. You played four seasons in Japan. What do you remember most fondest about the culture and the way basketball is played there?

I love the Japanese culture and my wife and I enjoyed our time there. My fondest memory of my time there would be my wife and I getting pregnant with our first child while living in Tokyo. The style of basketball is up tempo and more one on one basketball in most cases. I’ve been able to have some success in both styles of play so I enjoy playing in both.

When you played with TBB Trier you were teammates with Canadian Jermaine Bucknor. He is still with them. What do you remember most about his game and character? I am sure he is a guy out of the 100’s of teammates you have had that you won’t forget.

Jermaine is a great basketball player and an even better person! The thing I remember most about our time together would have to be the battles we would have in practice. We would push each other to get better and it always prepared us for the upcoming game. We stay in touch and are good friends and our families are close.

Who was the toughest player that you faced in the BBL in your two year run with Trier and Bremerhaven?

There were so many good players when I played in the BBL it’s hard to just pick one. One of my teammates in Bremerhaven proved to be one of the toughest. Darius Adam’s led the league in scoring and could facilitate and defend.

If you had to pick your all-time starting 5 of best teammates which 5 players would you pick?

I’ve played now for 12 seasons as a professional basketball player and have played with so many great players. It would be almost impossible to only pick just 5. I’ve been blessed enough to be a part of some special teams. The team that I won a Championship with in Cyprus, and the team we had in Trier would be two of the better overall teams I’ve played on.

If you had to construct your very own NBA mount Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick?

Michael Jordan, Bill Russell, Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James?

I think Lebron will go down as one of the best of all time, but Michael Jordan in my opinion is still the greatest.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Creed 2

Thanks Brian for the chat.

Andrew Barnum is a 28 year old 198cm forward from Memphis, Tennessee that is playing his fifth professional season and first in Germany with the Hamburg Towers (Germany-ProA). He has been an instrumental player in the club having a 11-4 record and sitting in second place of the pro A standings leading the club is scoring at 16,8ppg, 4,1rpg and 1,8apg while shooting 38% from outside. Last season he played with the Maine Red Claws (NBA G-League) playing 37 games averaging 4.9ppg, 2.8rpg. In his previous four professional seasons he gathered experience in Japan, Czech Republic, Romania and Hungary. He began his basketball career with Christian Brothers High School and then played two seasons at Memphis (NCAA) playing 49 NCAA games. He finished his NCAA career at Gonzaga playing two seasons from 2012-2014 amassing a total of 65 NCAA games and as a senior played 36 games averaging 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 48%, FT: 64.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the season started.

Drew thanks for talking to germanhoops.com How was your summer?

Summer was great. The NBA G-league season finishes early so I got a lot of time to work on my game and improve. I have arrived in Hamburg, Germany.

Your playing your fifth professional season and can be charachterized as a globetrotter having played in Japan, Czech Republic, Romania and Hungary in only your first three seasons. You have seen a lot, but do you have any idea that you will be living in one of Germany’s most beautiful cities with Hamburg?

I did not. It is truly a beautiful city and a great club. I am excited not only to live in Germany but to take part in the season with great teammates and coaches/management. 

Some years ago your new head coach Mike Taylor spent some time at Gonzaga and remembers your positive character and the way you treated your teammates then. What do you remember positively sticking in your mind about how Mike Taylor presented himself there?


First of all, he is extremely positive and genuinely cares about the people he coaches. This is why he visited Gonzaga. He is a hard worker and really understands the game of basketball. He gives you his all into making you and your team a better group. Nothing but respect for him. 

Congrats on signing with the Hamburg Towers. The club is very high on your abilities and character and Mike Taylor had seen you play before. Besides Mike Taylor what were other deciding factors that made you want to play for the Hamburg Towers?

I thought it was a good situation for me at the place I am at, in my career. Secondly, I want to win and Hamburg has the same goals to win and move up to first league. 

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? How excited are you to be battling former Gonzaga teammate Kyle Drangnis this season?

I have a lot of former teammates and friends playing in Germany. All of them had positive things to say about the quality of basketball and Germany as a country. 
He is already talking some smack so I can’t wait to play him and his team. The weekend before I arrived in Hamburg, Kyle and I were groomsmen in a wedding together so we have had plenty of conversations. 

With what kind of feeling are you coming to Germany. You played in the G-League last season not being that offensive force due to a lack of minutes. Do you feel pressure coming back to Europe and needing to prove yourself?

I don’t feel any pressure. The G-League is a very talented league and can be difficult for people if you are not a selfish player. I am just happy to be doing what I love, and confident in my abilities to help Hamburg. 

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a versatile player that is a team player and has a dangerous shot. If you had to pick an NBA player that best describes how you play who would best fit that description?

The three players I watch the most and try to implement my game after are Mike Miller, Klay Thompson, and Gordon Hayward.

You last shot over 40% in your senior year at Gonzaga at 46%. Since then you were close twice at the 40% mark shooting 39% in the Czech Republic and Romania. How much of a daily challenge is it for you to do what is needed to get your shooting at 40% or over?

I shoot when I’m hot, and shoot to get hot. A lot of the %’s has to do with the quality of the shots and the difficulty of them. But shooters shoot, so I don’t concentrate too much on the % but trying to get the best shot up and in to help my team. 

You’re a player that can fill up the stat sheet at ease, but what do you feel is a hidden strength in your game that doesn’t get noticed right away on the court?

I think a hidden gem is sneaky athletic and knowing where to be on the court at the right times. Whether that is spacing in the corner to give the big man room to work drawing the defense out because of my shot or being in the correct spot on defense.

How refreshing was it coming back to the states after three years overseas and playing in the G-League. You didn’t play as much as you would have liked. What kind of experience was it and would you try the G-League again or has that route ended for you?

I was nice to be able to go home and see my family and my sisters’ kids for a year. I had been gone a while and it was a good experience for me. I was able to do some workouts with the Celtics and learned a lot.

In 2016-2017 you split the season with BC Mures Targu-Mures (Romanian Liga Nationala) playing 13 games averaging 13.2ppg, 5.9rpg, 3.1apg, 2FGP: 41.3%, 3FGP: 39.8%, FT: 73.3%; FIBA Europe Cup: 7 games: 9.4ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.7apg, 2FGP: 32.1%, 3FGP: 40.6%, FT: 81.8%, in Jan.’17 moved to Falco KC Szombathely (Hungary-A Division) playing 33 games averaging 8.4ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 62.7%. Was reaching the Hungarian final which made the season all in all a positive one in the end?

Yes, it is always good to play for a championship! We had a great team in Hungary and it took me a little while to carve out time and establish myself in the middle of the season. I was a major contributor by the end and helped our team make it to the championship. 

In your second professional season you played with SLUNETA Usti nad Labem (Czech Republic-NBL) playing 41 games averaging 14.1ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 81.2%. This was your strongest season on the court. What memories do you have of your breakout season in Europe. You scorched Brno for 33 points and lost 112-67 to top Czech team Nymburk scoring 19 points.

This is where I added a lot to my game and became more than just a great shooter. It was fun to get to play a different role and really work on my game to improve for the next season. It was my building year. 

As a rookie you played with Oita Heat Devils (Japan-BJ League) playing 52 games averaging 9.6ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 74.0%. What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Japan where you knew that you were very far away from home?

Very little English was spoken unless it was my translator. It was a real wake up call for me to truly be on my own and figure things out. 

There were three other Americans on the team in your rookie season, but all had had previous professional experience. How important was Todd O’Brien in your rookie season for you getting through it well?

Todd was huge! He showed me how to be a true professional and exactly what European basketball was all about. He is one of the main reasons I have had the success I have had. 

You started your NCCA career with Memphis (NCAA) and played in your hometown from 2009-2011 playing a total of 49 games. You played for Josh Pastner after the well known John Calipari left. Have you ever wondered after what may have happened in your case had Calipari remained?

Calipari had his own players coming in. If he had stayed, I would have gone to play for Brad Stevens at Butler which I think would have been a good move for me.

Were you impressed amazed or dazzled by freshman Will Barton in your last season there. Would you ever have thought that he would become such a good and consistent NBA player?

I matched up with him every day in practice for 2 years. He always dazzled and played his own unique game. We had many battles against each other. I knew he would be this good if he found an NBA system that gave him freedom to be creative.

You then was with Gonzaga from 2011-2014 playing the seasons from 2012-2014. In your first season you were teammates with Germans Elias Harris and Mathis Monninghoff. What do you remember impressing you most about their games back then?

I actually came in the year Mathis left Gonzaga. But Elias was an elite level talent. He had the whole package. I wish he would have stuck in the NBA. Elias is an even better person and friend. 

You had your best season as a senior at Gonzaga averaging 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 48%, FT: 64.7%. You were the best three point shooter on the team. What was your secret that season you having the most accurate shot from outside?

Let It Fly! And I had great teammates and coaches who put in the right positions to succeed. 

Your ex teammate Kevin Pangos has had been climbing the basketball ladder for years and has reached FC Barcelona in his fourth season. Do you feel he can follow teammate David Stockton and get that NBA chance down the road?

Yes! For sure, Kevin is a NBA player who just isn’t in the NBA yet. He will be there in a couple years. Plus he is my best friend 

How did head coach Mark Few groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?


He taught me how to play the game and the fundamentals. He is a Hall of Fame coach and I grew exponentially under him!

Who won a one on one in practice you or Kyle Drangnis?

Me of course!!

You played against so many great players at the NCAA level, but which player was your toughest opponent that is in the NBA now?

I think the best I played against was Aaron Gordon or John Wall. 

How Did your 2018 summer work out plan look like? On what things will you be working on most so you will be fully prepared for your rookie season?

I really worked on ball handling. Shooting full speed of screens. And sharpening up the little parts of my game. 

If you had to construct your very own NBA Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick old or new? 

Larry Bird. Pistol Pete Maravich. Klay Thompson. Mike Miller.

What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate about who is better Lebron or Jordan?

Jordan. Has 6 rings and has a better jump shot!

Tracy Mcgrady said that the Boston Celtics will be the Golden State Warriors of the future. Do you see that happening? 100%.

They have the best young talent in the NBA and they have, in my opinion, the best coach in the NBA. They will be dominant for many years to come. 

Deandre Ayton was the #1 NBA draft pick in 2018. Do you feel that from sheer talent and experience that Luca Doncic should have been the real #1 draft pick? 

Ayton has the better physical body, but Doncic is the better basketball player for sure! Best talent in the draft with out a doubt. He will have a great career there. 

How did you follow the 2018 NBA Draft? How cool is it having two Germans being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers? Yes! 

I really followed people from my college and people I was friends with. Fun to watch people’s dreams come true. 

Lebron James makes amazing passes in every game, but really showcased it in a game this season against the Los Angeles Lakers. He already is like a point guard, but if he played just point guard and concentrated only on playmaking how many assists do you feel would he average per game?

He is the best in the game right now. I believe him being such a threat to score helps his passing, with people focusing on him. But he could easily average 10 assists. 

What was the last movie that you saw? Let me guess Black Panther?

Haha! Actually I have not seen Black Panther yet. The last movie I watched was ‘I can only imagine.’ Great movie.

Thanks Drew for the chat

The last few days were very exciting on and off the court for the Fraport Skyliners as they found back to the winning streak on the court while off the court they found some valuable family moments during the Christmas period. Only four days ago the Fraport Skyliners were challenged by the scrappy Basketball Lowen Braunschweig in a cup quarterfinal clash and held their nerves pulling away in the second half led by the overall potent guard duo of Jason Clark and Trae-Bell-Haynes who combined for 36 valuable points and the Canadian rookie also handed out 10 dimes that silenced any critics about the Fraport Skyliners having any kind of point guard problem. The club didn´t have the normal pre game preparation for the Bremerhaven game as head coach Gordon Herbert gave his club a day and a half to celebrate the Christmas time and too get their minds off basketball only for a short time which was dearly needed in the club´s up and down season. The club is still not in the playoff hunt, but with a good stretch in the next weeks can quickly get there as the easyCredit BBL standings are as tight as it is the path for Santa Claus getting down a chimney. The Fraport Skyliners wanted a good start after the Christmas food digestion, but had to get by the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven who have had a poor season as the organization continues to struggle since they reached their last playoffs in 2011 and currently are in 16^th place and reeling for some kind of positive experience. The club entered the Fraport arena without their JUCO rookie Jordan Brangers who had been released last weekend and needed other scoring forces to come out with a victory in Frankfurt. But other than getting a combined 37 points from Americans Chris Warren and Darnell Jackson, they couldn´t muster enough offense and as usual had problems keeping a team under 80 points as the Fraport Skyliners overcame the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven 84-77. After the bitter loss, ex Mississippi(NCAA) guard Chris Warren who 18 points and dished out 6 assists and kept the team a float the whole game had problems coming up with reasons for the loss. “This was one of our better defensive efforts of the season. We have a new coach and this game was a step in the right direction. I feel that we are getting better. All we need is a win which could start a domino effect. I thought we played better pick and roll defense and scrambled better”, stressed Chris Warren. The Fraport Skyliners needed a good showing to help bolster their self confidence as they next face ratiopharm Ulm twice in a row on the road, but instead struggled at both ends of the court and were lucky that they came out with the win. “They didn´t make it easy for us. We kind of went blind into the game. We weren´t sure what they would run. We had a rough day on defense with some mess ups. But I felt that we fought through it and got the win. Any win for us is good to keep our confidence going. We struggled a bit on offense, but also had some good moments. We have to find a way to keep our turnovers down”, warned ex Georgetown(NCAA) guard Jason Clark.

                3,380 fans made their way into the Fraport arena on the second Christmas day in Germany. It didn´t take long for both teams to find an offensive rhythm, but the Fraport Skyliners had their nose slightly ahead, but Bremerhaven stayed on their heels. Frankfurt got their outside shooting going early as Jason Clark, ex Auburn(NCAA) guard Quantez Robertson and ex St John´s(NCAA) forward Richard Freudenberg fired away and executed. Bremerhaven got a trey from ex Texas A&M (NCAA) standout Elston Turner and buckets in the paint from Warren and ex NBA player Darnel Jackson who won the 2008 NCAA title with Kansas(NCAA). Bremerhaven had a lot of intensity mainly due to Chris Warren who was always pushing the ball forward and they were also active in the paint area as ex Phoenix Hagen forward Fabian Bleck made a tap in and Jackson who played with the Cavs, Kings and Bucks in the NBA made a dunk to cut the Frankfurt lead to 13-12. Bremerhaven already got going on defense playing good pick and roll defense while Frankfurt was coughing up the ball too much. For the last five minutes fans would see back and forth basketball as there were 7 lead changes and both teams were exchanging baskets as rapidly as Quantez Robertson can still get up and down the floor at age 34. Bremerhaven got vital buckets from Jackson who nailed a tough turn around shot from the wing over Erik Murphy as it was a battle of ex NBA players and also got support from Warren and Elston Turner while the Fraport Skyliners offense was fortified by a Brady Heslip lay in as his quickness fooled Bremerhaven and 5 points from ex Chicago Bull Erik Murphy who drained free throws and a trey. “It went back and forth. We have to be playing better defense. It is dangerous to trade baskets with a team like that. We gave them the self confidence to stay in the game”, warned Fraport Skyliner Jason Clark. The Fraport Skyliners shot 62% from the field and 67% from outside and got 6 rebounds and had 4 turnovers while the Eisaberen Bremerhaven shotb56% from the field and 25% from outside and had 6 rebounds and 2 turnovers.

                In the second quarter the Fraport Skyliners heightened their play and were able to carry their lead into double digits. The Fraport Skyliners got some stops and executed on offense going on a 7-0 run to extend their lead to 29-20. Frankfurt got key input from Finish national player Shawn Huff who scored inside getting the perfect dish from ex Bremerhaven guard Garai Zeeb and Heslip was very effective dropping a trey and scoring on a lay in as Bremerhaven´s one on one defense was nonexistent. Bremerhaven finally got on the board from American Keith Benson who was briefly with the Golden State Warriors in 2012 connected on a 20 footer and German Fabian Bleck hit a trey as Bremerhaven unleashed their best ball movement of the game cutting Frankfurt´s lead to 34-25. Bremerhaven couldn´t get over the hump and get stops as Frankfurt was always able to get big shots when the opponent appeared to be coming back. Heslip and huff scored upping Frankfurt´s lead to 40-28. Bleck scored another three pointer, but Frankfurt got some instant damage from Jason Clark who scored 7 points in a few minutes. He made a heads up play following his free throw miss and made the put back and scored on two other possessions. “That was a good run by us. They closed out on me and I got to the rim well. I was being competitive and playing on instinct and just taking what the defense gave me”, warned Jason Clark. Frankfurt led 47-35, but the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven cut the Frankfurt lead under 10 points going into the break. Chris Warren remained aggressive and drew two fouls getting 4 points as Frankfurt led 47-39. “We defended better. We were able to get out on transition and we had better ball movement and weren´t trading baskets”, added Jason Clark. The Fraport Skyliners shot 64% from the field and 50% from the three point line and grabbed 15 rebounds and had 8 turnovers while the Eisaberen Bremerhaven shot 48% from the field and 27% from the three point line and grabbed 9 rebounds and had 6 turnovers.

                In the third quarter the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven continued to chip away at the Fraport Skyliners lead as it got smaller and smaller. Both teams were back to trading buckets in the first few minutes as Quantez Robertson made a steal and got Trae Bell-Haynes the ball on transition only to get it back on the alley-Op dunk. Huff also made a fade away jumper while the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven countered with a transition lay in from Warren who spun and weaved around the Skyliner defense and not only reminded one of a James Harden with his facial hair, but also with his quick energetic play. Jackson hit a fade away jumper over Voeller as his play didn´t surprise anyone of his NBA experience. Warren continued to supply the Eisaberen with intensity that carried them, but they had to work a lot harder for buckets on offense than did Frankfurt. After a Murphy runner, the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven found some daylight going on a crucial 6-0 run to cut the Frankfurt advantage to 53-51. In the run, the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven got first class support from ex NBA player Darnell Jackson who scored a bucket, but also made two pretty assists finding Germans Bleck and ex EWE Baskets Oldenburg forward Jan Wimberg. “Jackson gave us problems. He was a real beast in the paint. He had a couple nice turn around shots. He has such a wide boy. When he gets the ball where he wants it, he is tough to stop”, warned Jason Clark. “Coach continues to stress that the bigs have to be more prepared to pass the ball on the cuts. I continue to focus on trying to hit guys when there open”, warned Darnell Jackson. Frankfurt stopped the Bremerhaven run with a huge trey from Garai Zeeb who had his family at the game and got free throws from ex Alba Berlin guard Akeem Vargas. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven didn´t lose their momentum or staying with Frankfurt as German Adrian Breitlauch connected as did Keith Bensen in the paint and the made free throws as the Fraport Skyliners led only 60-57. “We were very inconsistent on defense. That offense that they run is good when you don´t take way their first three passes. They had a lot of back cuts that hurt us”, stressed Jason Clark. “We got more stops and scored more. We went on a run and traded less baskets”, added Chris Warren. The Fraport Skyliners shot 50% from the field and 30% from the parking lot and hauled down 23 rebounds and had 12 turnovers while the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven shot 48% from the field and 19% from the parking lot and hauled down 19 rebounds and had 10 turnovers.

                In the fourth quarter the Fraport Skyliners broke away from the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven as their offense executed very well and they also got more consistent stops on defense.  Murphy got Frankfurt going with a lay in as he got served up the precious dime from Zeeb who broke the double team and made the perfect pass. Bremerhaven then broke out on a 6-2 run as they caught Frankfurt napping as Wimburg made a dunk, Breitlauch scored on the coast to coast lay in and Turner made a jumper cutting Frankfurt´s lead down to 64-63. But the Fraport Skyliners as they have displayed so often in this season when times got tough relied on their offensive weapons and hot shooting breaking away from Bremerhaven going on a 10-3 run to extend their lead to 77-68. In the run, they got big help from Murphy who contributed 5 points including a trey and the club also got hot shooting from the parking lot from Vargas and Heslip. Interesting to note was that neither Jason Clark or Trae Bell-Haynes the two main point guards were on the floor during the run and in crunch-time. “That group was playing well. When a rotation is playing well, you should stick with it. We both struggled today and we have to be better and we know that. Coach Herbert is getting more confident with the young guys. When I first came here I thought that Garai Zeeb was one of the more experienced guys. He forced Warren to tough shots and did a good job on him. We have the luxury that we have many guys that can step up”, warned Jason Clark. In the run, the Fraport Skyliners upped the defensive intensity level and didn´t allow Warren to do damage in the lane, but forced him to take wild three´s that didn´t fall. Bremerhaven´s defense had some good moments especially slowing up Frankfurt´s pick and roll, but overall their one on one defense was horrible. After the game ex NBA player Darnell Jackson reflected on his team´s defensive woes. “We have to have the whole team buy in to defending well and not only 1-2 guys”, stressed Darnell Jackson. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven continued to fight getting some buckets from Turner and Jackson cutting Frankfurt´s lead down to 79-72. But Frankfurt got to the free throw line twice with Robertson and Huff draining free throws upping Frankfurt´s lead to 82-74 with 1.05 to play. Heslip and Warren traded baskets ending the game. “We made the big plays and shots when we had to. We kept fighting and stayed composed. We have a lot of talent and when we can share the ball like we did crunch-time then we are always dangerous”, stressed Jason Clark. “We gave up too many second chances and open shots”, added Darnell Jackson. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Erik Murphy and Brady Heslip with 16 points a piece. Quantez Robertson added 14 points and Jason Clark 10 points. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were led by Darnell Jackson with 19 points and Chris Warren added 18 points. The Fraport Skyliners shot 50% from the field and 34% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 16 coughed up balls while the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven shot 50% form the field and 14% from outside and had 22 rebounds and 12 coughed up balls.

                Jordan Brangers may of come down to Miami last summer to play in a pro league and was as about as unknown a player can ever be, but playing in the college Juco league and not coming from a well known NCAA school quickly left people uninterested and thinking of negativity at first, but after he left the court, his name was on the radar of some people´s interest and his play and suddenly his basketball path became as exciting for some there like it was years ago wondering where Shaq liked to devour burgers the most in South Beach. Brangers gave some observers that wow effect after he scorched an opponent for 43 points and was dropping long range bombs from left and right like a Steph Curry does on a nightly basis or how Scottie Wilbekin did last season nailing FC Bayern Munich for 40 plus points in a semi-final Eurocup game. And that 43 point explosion in Miami wasn´t even the best that he ever felt with his scoring touch. “I Wouldn’t say it’s the biggest zone I’ve been in. The biggest was pretty big, but I’ve got to credit my teammates for getting my good looks and making the right passes to me in my spots”, warned Jordan Brangers. There are so many incredible players that have played in the JUCO over time, but have been overlooked, laughed at and just not taken seriously by other higher-level schools or professional team´s all over the world, but that is how basketball life works. But it´s just a process and Jordan Brangers knows that. He always knew that his time would come. Jordan Brangers was already the real deal before he went down to Miami as he left his mark in the JUCO league and his play gave him legendary status. So after winning titles in the JUCO league and having a game that left many wondering why he wasn´t showcasing his skills in the NCAA or NCAA 2, he finally got some respect from German club the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven giving him a rookie contract to play in one of the top leagues in Europe. This deal was joked about many in the German basketball world last summer as the club announced the arrival of Jordan Brangers. The talk was how can an easyCredit BBL team sign a guy from the JUCO? The club was once an easyCredit BBL play off team, but despite having fair budgets over the years and signing a slew of ex NBA players like a Tyrus Thomas or Deandre Liggins to name just a few to spice up the northern Germany fisher town Bremerhaven that showcases beautiful landscapes and has the Atlantic Hotel Sail City that would remind some of the Dubai architecture, there hasn´t too much excitement in their basketball life in the last 7-8 years. It seemed like the club didn´t learn from past mistakes in the last years with the signing of the American, but everyone has been wrong to a degree. Many weren´t expecting any kind of turn around this season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven, but with almost three months played, the club is struggling, but hasn´t had as much potential as this season to have success again.  Despite everything Jordan Brangers has been the real deal. Even if Brangers has held his own and proved he can play at the BBL level, he most likely will never shed his JUCO image as his chip on his shoulder which most likely has reserved a life long place on his shoulder is as sturdy as that of a Polar bear´s shoulder as that is how you translate the German name of Eisbaer into English.

                Before explaining how Jordan Brangers has been able to not only adjust to the easyCredit BBL as a rookie, but at times leave the floor as the best player on certain nights and being able to be a leader for his club Eisbaeren Bremerhaven as a rookie, one has to look back at his basketball path the last years and how he was able to reach a top league like the easyCredit BBL. Jordan Brangers is a 188cm guard that was born in Radcliff, Kentucky and attended North Hardin High School. He began his basketball career with South Plains JC (JUCO), but many don´t know he could of developed a totally different basketball resume and not had that nasty JUCO label had he not thought first about family and put basketball second. Picking family over basketball obviously deserves some respect. He could of played at Texas Tech the school where the legendary Bobby Knight once coached, but instead decided that being with his ailing grandmother was more important than beginning to carve a basketball legacy. “Sometimes I wonder how things would of played out at Texas Tech, but I feel like everything happens for a reason and I wanted to be closer to home for my Grandmother who recently passed away. It was good for me to be there for her when she was going through a lot of hard times”, stressed Jordan Brangers. So instead of being a NCAA player, the ambitious and confident scorer Brangers took many steps back and played at South Plains, but was rewarded by winning the JUCO national title in his second season while averaging 16.0ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 39.9%, FT: 74.4%. He was near 40% from outside in his last season at South Plains as his shooting continued to improve. “My shooting grew a lot. Being able to hit deeper shots consistently and being able to make tough shots helped me a lot at South Plains. When you are being face guarded and having people chase you around the whole game it really does make it tough”, warned Jordan Brangers. The American who lists NBA top guard John Wall as the toughest player he ever faced on the court remembers that even if he did play in the JUCO and not at the NCAA level, he was able to develop his game further under the helpful guidance of head coach Steve Green. “Coach Green prepared me in so many different ways. He made sure I was a better person off the court before I was on the court. It’s a lot different playing for a Hall of Fame coach like him, but with all the knowledge he has for the game and what he’s done, it was a amazing experience”, stressed Jordan Brangers. It wasn´t only coach Green that was instrumental in how Brangers was able to develop his game in the JUCO, but his teammate Isaiah Maurice who brought good basketball skills coming from top NCAA school Kansas State and challenged Brangers on a daily basis. “He was a tough task inside and could score basically whenever he wanted too and it definitely helped me get a lot of open looks from outside the arc”, added Jordan Brangers.

            When looking at the game of sniper Jordan Brangers, the most obvious thing that sticks out is his outside shooting qualities as he has proven with his crazy bombs from outside time in and time out throughout his career, but he has so much more to his game as he is a versatile scorer. “I’m a 3 level scorer. Obviously I can shoot, but I can shoot the mid-range and I can also get to the basket and finish. There’s a lot more to my game than shooting and I definitely feel like I’m a great passer too”, warned Jordan Brangers. He demonstrated this type of scoring in the JUCO in Miami last summer and already in the easyCredit BBL this season. Another big strength of the American is his mental game as his self confidence is as big as the New England Patriots pain was after giving away a game in Miami in the last seconds a few weeks ago and knows his shooting will continue to leave a mark in the BBL coupled with his driving passion for the game. “My goal is to just play my game and continuing to get better and keep growing as a player and a shooter. I definitely see my passion growing at the next level playing Professional basketball. I definitely think it’ll reach new heights”, warned Jordan Brangers. When watching video clips of his explosive scoring many could find the quick appropriate name of ball hog, because he does take many shots, but he continues to display his knack of passing the ball as a hidden strength in his game. “My passing definitely doesn’t get noticed a lot, but I take pride in getting teammates open looks when I’m not able to get good looks and get easy shots”, added Jordan Brangers.

            What many don´t know is that he could of played two more years in the JUCO or elsewhere to continue to work on shaping his basketball game, but decided to come out early after two years and test his skills on a professional stage. A big reason for this thinking was that he wasn´t 20 or 21 years old, but already 23, a good age to start a professional career.  “I feel like it was a big reason why I didn’t think school would help me anymore and that wasn’t because of the education part, but it was because of how much older I was trying to play at the next level and I didn’t think time would wait for me”, warned Jordan Brangers. Before Jordan Brangers set out for Bremerhaven, Germany last August he used his last weeks in the States in Daytona, Florida to prep for his professional rookie season overseas by concentrating on spending time in the weight room to keep getting stronger while on the court continuing to refine his game further getting up shots and being more consistent off the catch and running off screens. At the same time, he was also outlining how his rookie season could go in Germany. Obviously he was extremely thrilled to not only get a professional contract coming from the JUCO, but also getting the opportunity to display his basketball abilities in a top league like the easyCredit BBL. He spoke to his friend Byron Sanford from home in Kentucky who was a rookie last season in the Pro B with Coburg and got the low down about Germany in that the food is very good and that the people take their basketball quite seriously. He was sold on the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven quickly as he felt just how hungry this team is for success and coupled with his unending hunger to prove himself and having that massive chip on his shoulder, he knew both sides were made for each other. “I had a great feeling about this time. I love basketball, getting better, and winning games. I feel like I can take that to this team and we can take things to the next level this season and turn some heads and try to get back to the playoffs”, stressed Jordan Brangers.

                Brangers came to Bremerhaven with a lot of self-confidence and a label that not many players can say they have ever had coming from the JUCO to the BBL and never having played a second in the NCAA, but the only focus he had was the future and not the past. “ I would definitely say I feel like I’m one of the greatest JUCO players to never play NCAA D1 and I say that as humble as possible. I’ve put in a lot of work up to this point to be as good as I am and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon”, warned Jordan Brangers. He hasn´t stopped, but is continuing to make strides in his game at the highest level that he has ever played at and hasn´t been a pleasant surprise, but a very pleasant surprise as he has proven in the first few months that he can be a force in the easyCredit BBL and like his teammates has been an important contributor despite the team having a 3-8 record and resting in 16^th place. The team is stocked with much talent and if they ever come together as a team and can build harmony, then they could be successful, but that is easier said than done when you are battling in the competitive easyCredit BBL. That the team is fortified with offensive power isn´t a surprise, but they just can´t establish a defensive identity as they average giving up 87 points per game. They have given up 80 points or more 10 times and even when they win they allow way too many points which won´t guarantee a team success for the long run. The good news has been that they beat the teams they had to like Crailsheim and Jena and even upset playoff bound team Giessen, but then again lost to MBC. It also hasn´t helped that they lost three crunch time games, but they did give top team Bamberg a good run for the money losing only by five points. Brangers hasn´t got lost in the offensive shuffle as he has to compete with four 30 plus year old Americans, but then again has perfect mentors in guys like Chris Waren and Elston Turner. A few weeks before he came to Germany in August, he was reeling off a productive summer and was more than grateful about getting the opportunity to showcase his abilities in Germany, but at the same time not at all fearful of not getting the job done. “I’m really blessed to have this opportunity to play in the Top German league and it’s a really good feeling. I don’t feel any pressure to perform or anything like that, I just need to continue what I’ve been doing and that’s working hard and crafting my game. I feel really confident that I’ll hold my own and make an impact. It’s just a matter of getting the opportunity and making the best of it. I’ve worked really hard up to this point and I still feel I’ve got a lot of work to do, but that’s all about the process”, stressed Jordan Brangers last summer. Being consistent is never easy for a rookie and probably even harder for a JUCO player, but the American has had a good head on his shoulders and has proven any critics wrong with his play on the court averaging 12,7ppg, 1,7rpg and 1,9apg while shooting a solid 34,7% from outside. He has scored in double figures in four games including exploding for 29 points in a big win against Science City Jena where he nailed six three´s. He also had a 19 point effort against top team FC Bayern Munich and 18 points against Rasta Vechta. But then came a sudden jolt in his rookie season as two days before Christmas, he didn´t receive a cute polar bear momento Christmas gift from his employer, but instead surprisingly his walking papers. In a way the way the season has gone and how the front office has reacted to certain things nothing is surprising anymore. Ok so Jordan Brangers wasn´t the all-rounder, but if they had done their home work correctly, they would have known that he is an amazing shooter/scorer that can put up many points on the board while on other nights he might not be able to hit the ocean. There were some rumors of some off-court issues so this may have been added to the club´s reasoning for waiving him besides their main reason that he didn´t defend the way the club wanted him to. His self confidence was on the rise as a rookie, but now might be a little rattled, but nothing he won´t figure out and master over time. If he was still with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven now with one game a week, he would have had enough time to visit the famous Bremerhaven zoo called Zoo Am Meer and check out the cute lovable Polar Bears and never forget where he came from and how tough his basketball struggle has been in his career. With this sudden set back, it will only make him stronger mentally and make that chip on his shoulder even stronger as that bitter memory of his short stay with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven will drive him to new heights with his next team.

If opponents of the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were really bored, they could play a type of make believe lottery on their way to Frankfurt in that they try to guess which easyCredit BBL license players will be on board and which won´t. The best chance that all players will be playing is usually the day after or even the day before a BBL game, but what happens when both teams play on the same day. Well if both play at night in different cities then it is almost a 100% chance that nobody will be available, but what happens when both are playing in the same city Frankfurt and the games are 4 hours apart? Well on some days, there could be a few guys that play in both, but when the Fraport Skyliners are playing a huge cup game against Braunschweig for the ticket to the semi-final and the team already is battling huge injury woes then there is a very good chance that all the guys will be rested and ready to go for the cup duel. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were missing two key players with Garai Zeeb and Richard Freudenberg who combined average 20 points per game this season in the Pro B. But the club still had other key performers on board like Elijah Clarance and Armin Trtovac. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors faced the ambitious youth program Orange Academy of ratiopharm Ulm that has no American player and it pitted the top two defenses in the Pro B against one another. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors took control of the game in the first quarter and never looked back controlling the game and had a big enough lead late in the fourth quarter to not let a big Orange Academy run ruin their forthcoming Christmas as they pulled out a well deserved 78-65 victory. After the game 17 year old Zachary Ensminger who has that well known basketball name and the same eyes of his father Chris who belonged to the top BBL centers 15 years ago as he helped Bamberg to a BBL title in 2005 was frustrated with the loss. “We had too many turnovers in the game. There were some phases where we played well, but then again phases where we had no energy at all on offense and defense. We had problems after losing three close games and that affected us mentally as we weren´t as confident”, stressed Zachary Ensminger.

                27 year old 190cm combo guard Dennis Mavin made his debut with the Fraport Skyliners Juniors. He had been with the club for three weeks and wasn´t cleared until the Orange Academy game. The American who hails from Gainesville, Florida and comes form the same place as 2018 Eurocup champion Scottie Wilbekin started the season with 2018 Pro B champion ScanPlus Baskets, but didn´t fit into their rotation as he averaged only 10.3ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 40.7%, 3FGP: 16.7%, FT: 50.0%. The ex Florida International(NCAA) stand out played with Giessen last season in the Pro B and also played two BBL games against ratiopharm Ulm and Gotha got the starting nod and didn´t disappoint taking the place of Garai Zeeb who was scheduled to play in the BBL cup battle four hours later scoring 15 points, dishing out three assists and getting three steals. After the big victory, he was happy about finally getting on the floor and getting the win. “I thought overall I gave a solid effort. It could have been better, but I´m satisfied that we got the win. My role isn´t any different here than it was with the ScanPlus Baskets. The biggest difference now is that I can lead young guys here while with the ScanPlus Baskets there were more older players. I´m looking forward to growing in Frankfurt. With the ScanPlus Baskets, I had to stand out as a leader, and here I´m forced to be a leader. Our defense got us the win and it was important that we kept our intensity up. It was a collective team effort where everyone contributed on offense. It was a great team effort”, warned Dennis Mavin. After the victory 20 year old German Konstantin Schubert who is out for 6-8 weeks was thrilled about having Mavin as a new teammate. “He is super quick and a great ball handler. He gets to the bucket and is hard to stop 1-1. He will help the young kids. He really knows the game”, warned Konstantin Schubert.

            In the first few minutes the game was back and forth as there were three lead changes. After a Mavin lay in where his quickness was put on a platter for all to oooh and ahh at, both teams big men got going early as Armin Trtovac scored three baskets while Orange Academy center Till Pape who has 22 BBL games and 12 Eurocup games on his resume scored twice. A big three pointer from 17 year old Maxi Begue solidified the 11-5 Frankfurt lead. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors continued to execute well on offense and got to the free throw line as Clarance made four free throws and ex Chemnitz big man Aaron Kayser secured an offensive rebound and threw down a  hard two handed dunk as Orange Academy trailed 21-10. The guests had had misfortune as they had missed three easy shots while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had a fine rhythm on offense and exerted aggressive pressure on the Orange Academy guards which didn´t allow them to get into their offensive sets. Mavin closed out the first quarter with a beautiful trey and swished two free throws as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had the comfortable 26-12 advantage. “Our goal was like in the first game there to have a lot of defensive pressure. We did a good job putting pressure on their guards and forcing turnovers”, stated Konstantin Schubert. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 50% from the field and 33% from outside and had 10 rebounds and 3 turnovers while Orange Academy shot 21% from the field and 40% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 7 turnovers.

            In the second quarter the Fraport Skyliners Juniors kept the lead and even allowed for Orange Academy to cut the lead down to 5 points, but had it back up at 10 at the break. Pape had the hot hand in the first quarter and Orange Academy didn´t hesitate going to him right away and he executed well giving the guests a 5-0 run on a 10 footer, lay in and free throw to cut the Frankfurt lead down to 26-16. Frankfurt wasn´t generating much offense in the first minutes and had to settle for a Maxi Begue lay in. Orange Academy continued to fight and got huge production from 17 year Timo Lanmuller who won the Albert Schweitzer tournament with Germany sunk back to back trey´s cutting the Frankfurt lead down to 28-23. This sudden come back attempt by Orange Academy didn´t faze Frankfurt as they let the long ball fly as they went on a devastating 9-2 run as Begue, Clarance and Len Schoorman nailed three´s giving Frankfurt the commanding 37-25 lead. A big strength of the Fraport Skyliners is having multiple guys come through at all times during the game. Orange Academy then halted Frankfurt´s offensive terror with their own lightening 7-0 run to cut Frankfurt´s lead to 37-32 as Pape scored, 209cm big man Nicolas Bretzel hit a 15 footer and Ensminger drooped three free throws. The 17 year old finished with 6 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals. The guard is happy that he has found a home in Ulm for basketball. “It has been a good experience playing Pro B as it is a lot different than the NBBL. The guards in Pro B are more physical, quick and skilled. I have to fight for my minutes in practice. Ulm is a good place for me to develop”, stressed Zach Ensminger. Another big strength of Frankfurt is that when team´s come back and are threatening, they don´t panic, but come through with big plays and shots. Schoorman drooped another trey and ex Kronberg guard Felix Hecker who was the 2017 NBBL player of the year made a lay in as Orange Academy trailed 42-32 at the break. “Their run wasn´t surprising since they are a good team and we knew that they would come back. We improved our defense in the second part of the quarter and showed that when we have room, we can score”, added Konstantin Schubert. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 44% from the field and 40% from the three point line and they grabbed 17 rebounds and had 7 turnovers while Orange Academy shot 37% from the field and 36% from the three point line and grabbed 13 rebounds and had 12 turnovers.

            Both teams stunk up the first five minutes of the third quarter as both teams were playing as if they had hot coal in their hands as they had no real good grip on the ball as both teams combined for an embarrassing 12 turnovers. However the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were still the better team as they still executed better than Orange Academy and kept their lead in the double digits. It took a little while before any team got on the board first as both teams were coughing up the ball as if it was easier than making a lay up in practice. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors did find the hot hand first as Mavin and Trtovac scored on transition giving Frankfurt the 46-32 lead. Orange Academy didn´t have many options on this day and had to rely mostly on Till Pape who saw the basket like the ocean as he also showed his good basketball IQ hitting a fade away and waiting until Trtovac fell on him getting the extra free throw. Orange Academy had no consistency and their weapons weren´t executing while Frankfurt´s long ball and transition game was working well. Schoormann scored on transition and Felix Hecker nailed a trey as Frankfurt led 53-37. Down the stretch Begue made a tap in and is becoming more and more versatile and Mavin drilled home a quarter buzzer beater three as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors led 58-42 after three frames. “Both teams had a lot of turnovers. You never want to open up a quarter like that. It was very ugly. I´m happy that our defense stayed consistent. That got us over the hump”, added Dennis Mavin. “We had too many turnovers. Frankfurt put good pressure on us not letting us get in our plays. That forced us to go more 1-1 which is something we normally don´t like to do since we are team orientated”, stressed Zachary Ensminger. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 45% from the field and 44% from the parking lot and they hauled down27 rebounds and 15 turnovers while Orange Academy shot 32% from the field and 22% from the parking lot and they hauled down 28 rebounds and had 20 turnovers.

            The Fraport Skyliners Juniors kept up the pressure for seven minutes, but then let up a bit allowing Orange Academy on a last run, but they ran out of time before they could put any big dent in the game result. Both teams started to fire away from outside as the Fraport Skyliners received good outside production from Mavin, Gruehn and Hecker while Orange Academy got two three´s from Pape and big man Bretzel, but the Fraport Skyliners Juniors still had the huge 73-52 advantage as the game seemed long decided. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors then put their offensive arsenal on the back burner and coasted as Orange Academy closed out the game with a 12-3 run to lose 78-65. Timo Lanmuller did the most damage in the run scoring a total of 8 points dropping two trey´s. Nicholas Mobus also hit a trey and Bretzel made free throws. “We lost some focus at the end. But we were still consistent with our effort. We still shared the ball well and continued to make the extra pass when they went to zone”, stressed Dennis Mavin. “We played well at the end, but Frankfurt didn´t play 100%. We showed for a few minutes that we could play with them, but it was too late”, stressed Zachary Ensminger. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Armin Trtovac with 16 points while Dennis Mavin added 15 points. Felix Hecker and Maxi Begue contributed 10 points a piece. Swedish shooting Elijah Clarance added 9 points 3 rebounds, seven assists and 4 steals. He had a cold shooting day at 18% going 2/11, but he continues to make good progress in his playmaking. He came to Frankfurt to become a better point guard. His court vision against Orange Academy was good and his passing skills continue to improve. Orange Academy was led by Till Pape with 22 points. Timo Lanmuller added 13 points and Nicolas Bretzel had 10 points. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 45% form the field and 44% from outside and had 35 rebounds and 21 coughed up balls while Orange Academy shot 39% from the field and 33% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 24 coughed up balls.

For weeks there had been a rumor circling around the Dragons Rhondorf that a new player would be arriving, but that took a while to happen, but prior to the RheinStars Cologne game the name Anish Sharda was presented as the 36 year old 188cm point guard was reeled in for his vast experience and scoring and playmaking something the team had been lacking this season. Sharda is in his 13^th professional season and knows the German Pro B very well having played a total of 116 games with teams like Mainz, Hanau and TV Langen over the last years. He played the last four seasons in the German Regionalliga with ASC Theresianum Mainz and never averaged less than 18,9ppg. This season he was tearing up the league again as in 13 games he averaged 21,2ppg, 4,4rpg and 4,9apg while shooting a respectable 38% from outside. He demonstrated his scoring abilities best against Fellbach devouring them with 44 points and helping crush Tuebingen with 32 points. The Dragons Rhondorf went into the game against the RheinStars in 11^th place with a record of 3-10 having lost four of their last five games and had come close at home the weekend before staying with the wiha Panthers for 38 minutes while the guests had a poor 2-11 record and were looking for revenge after their 77-67 loss to Rhondorf in the first meeting and it was also the home coming of Thomas Michel who had graced the jersey of the Dragons the season before. 750 fans were in a great mood and already prepared for Christmas as the atmosphere was great, but for Dragon Rhondorf fans there was no happy ending as they couldn´t win the game at the end as they had their chances, but just couldn´t execute with the final seconds waning down. After the game an upbeat Anish Sharda explained his first feelings about his new team and why the club couldn´t pull out the win. “It was a great atmosphere here tonight and I had fun. I have to thank the Dragons organization for giving me this opportunity. There is a difference between Pro B and Regionalliga, but at the end basketball is basketball for me. Despite the loss, I felt we did a great job bringing energy. The fifth foul on Riauka really hurt us. We could have been sharper on execution. There were certain things we forgot to do on the pick and roll. We have to be ready”, warned Anish Sharda. The RheinStars were thrilled after the win as they all rushed into the stands to celebrate with their fans, while Tucker Haymond just made the fan photo as he was being interviewed and was relieved that the team could head into the Christmas break with the win and he could go to Paris for the holiday feeling good. “We did a good job staying together at the end. We knew that if we could stick together that we would get the win. I felt we showed great team chemistry and played hard with a lot of energy. We showed great growth as a team throughout the game. It was a great team win”, stressed Tucker Haymond.

The game was very tight in the first minutes as both sides took a break and let it´s teams best two players Tucker Haymond and Zygimantas Riauka take central stage as they battled from outside and inside. Haymond came into the game shooting a disappointing 26,4% from the parking lot, but only a few days earlier warned that his slump wouldn´t last. “Shooters sometimes go through slumps, I started a bit slow this season from three but the last few games I’ve been shooting it well. I expect to be above 30% over the next few games I’m not worried ever about making shots”, warned Tucker Haymond. He stayed true to his words and quickly found a liking to the Rhondorf baskets nailing two trey´s while on the other end the Lithuanian double double beast Riauka was making the paint his stomping ground scoring twice while he also got support from Illinois native Kwam Waller who dropped a trey, but the RheinStars had the slim 10-9 lead. Waller showed the quickness that he still has at age 29 finding daylight and scoring in the lane cutting the guests lead to 12-11, but that didn´t last long as Haymond continued to want the ball and remained a shooting menace connecting on two more three´s giving Cologne the 18-11 advantage. The Dragons Rhondorf kept up their intensity and caught the RheinStars napping a few times on defense and got two buckets from Riauka who was unstoppable near the basket and also got a jumper to fall from Sharda who made his first field goal on his first attempt as a Dragon as Cologne still led 18-17. Despite the sudden burst of fire from the Dragons Rhondorf, the RheinStars stayed calm and continued to get good looks and closed out the first quarter with a 5-2 run to lead 23-19. They got two vital baskets from 20 year old Flip Kucic and a dunk from ex BG Goettingen big man Malte Herwig. Ex Bremerhaven German Bo Meister closed out the first frame with a hook shot. “They shot well and we fell asleep on Haymond. We were overhelping which led to the kicks”, stated Anish Sharda. The RheinStars shot 54% from the field and 63% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 5 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 50% from the field and 17% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

In the second quarter, the Dragons Rhondorf captured the lead back briefly before giving it up again, but never allowed the RheinStars to lead by more than 8 points. Both teams got their offenses going right away, but the Dragons Rhondorf had the better start going on a 7-2 run to retake the lead 26-25. In the run Rhondorf got good contribution from Waller with a lay in, a 15 footer from big man Alexander Moeller and a trey from ex Ehingen German Bo Meister. The game became a game of runs as both teams suffered countless break downs on defense. The RheinStars struck back with a quick 11-2 run taking the 36-28 advantage. The three ball was flying again for the RheinStars and with extreme accuracy and three fell from ex Dragon Thomas Michel who has 14 BBL games on his resume with the Telekom Baskets Bonn, Benedict Van Laack and from Haymond again who made his fifth of the game. The RheinStars offense was very fluid while Rhondorf couldn´t get out on the shooters the way they would have liked while on offense they were suffering ups and downs. Waller continued to be active on offense getting a three to fall and getting free throws to cut the guests lead to 38-33. Even if Haymond was the big story for the RheinStars, it was new Slovakian point guard Vladimir Nemcok who was a bit in the shadow of the ex Western Michigan(NCAA) standout as he was a big reason why the RheinStars offense was cooking. His aggressive play was always a threat as he constantly in attack mode and one couldn´t let him have room to penetrate which allowed him to be a threat finding the open man at all times and he did. He had a poor shooting night at 1/8 scoring only three points, but had 8 dimes. One of his better assists was to Yassin Kolo for the 40-33 lead. Nemcok who last played in Spain in the Leb Silver league for Alicante showed countless times that he could find his teammates in all kinds of situations and his teammate Haymond was impressed with his play. “He is a smart player that is fast and knows the game well. He is a great passer, but more importantly what really stands out in his game is his ability to get us the ball in our hands so all we have to do is shoot without any preparation. He was a main reason why we were leading. He is a great addition”, warned Tucker Haymond. The RheinStars kept the pressure on down the stretch getting another basket from Kolo in the paint and a clutch three from Kucic for the 45-37 lead. Sharda closed out the first half with a difficult step back fade away buzzer beater as the Dragons Rhondorf trailed 45-40 after 20 minutes. “Nemcok was important for their lead. He was really good with the pace and on the pick and roll. We all had to help and it was tough”, added Anish Sharda. The RheinStars shot 48% from the field and 53% from the three point line and grabbed 17 rebounds and had 9 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 50% from the field and 45% from the three point line and grabbed 17 rebounds and had 11 turnovers.

The Dragons Rhondorf exploded in the third quarter having possibly their best offensive 10 minutes of the season dropping 32 points and totally turning the game around. In the first few minutes both offenses were executing well as the Dragons Rhondorf were unable to pull away. Riauka continued to be the work horse getting two buckets inside and ex Telekom Baskets Bonn 2 guard Philipp Gruber also made a pull up jumper. The RheinStars Cologne continued to be driven by their shooting guard ace Tucker Haymond who didn´t only have a three point bomb to offer, but showed his Gordon Hayward like versatility scoring on transition and also sneaking inside and making like a big man and getting an offensive rebound and making the put back as the RheinStars still led 52-47. With the trey not falling as well the Dragons Rhondorf got the ball inside and were successful while the RheinStars at this point still looked like the better team as they had more options on the offensive end. But then came one of the turning points of the game as the Dragons Rhondorf exploded out on a 24-5 run to take the 68-57 lead. In the run, the Dragons Rohndorf were helped by many different players. Ex Speyer forward Yannick Kneesch had some big baskets scoring inside and showed his 48% accuracy from outside two seasons ago with the Bonn Regionalliga team was no fluke as he scored. The Dragons also got support from Waller, Riauka and Meister and got a huge three from Sharda. Rhondorf played with a lot of heart and upped their defensive intensity. Captain Joe Koschade was big annoying Vladimir Nemcok and drastically limiting his playmaking while the RheinStars totally lost their rhythm on offense. Rhondorf got added buckets from Waller and Moeller and led 72-62 after the third frame. “We executed better and did a better job on the pick and roll. Riauka was excellent and we did a better job not collapsing on Nemcok”, added Anish Sharda. “I was in foul trouble. It was a game of runs. We did a good job keeping our heads up despite their big run”, added Tucker Haymond. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 55% from the field and 47% from the parking lot and hauled down 28 rebounds and had 13 turnovers while the RheinStars shot 45% from the field and 48% from the parking lot and hauled down 23 rebounds and had 13 turnovers.

In the fourth quarter, the Dragons Rhondorf held the nice lead for three minutes, but then came the big RheinStars come back. Both teams offenses got going quickly as the Dragons Rhondorf relied on their three point shooting getting trey´s from Sharda and Kneesch while the RheinStars got a three from Michel and a step back jumper from Kolo who showed his shooting versatility in that if he can´t get in the paint, then he will beat you with his mid distance or even three point shooting as he arrived into the game shooting an astronomical 53,3% from downtown, but the Dragons Rhondorf still led 78-68. Then at the 7.08 minute mark, the Dragons Rhondorf were hit with their fifth team foul which effected them right away. The RheinStars went on a 6-0 run taking advantage of the fifth team foul as Kolo and Haymond sunk free throws. Haymond then scored inside cutting the Rhondorf lead to 78-74. The Dragons Rhondorf held the slim lead thanks to free throws from Riauka and Waller, but the RheinStars continued to chip away and felt that something good could happen in crunch-time. They weren´t wrong as Van Laack nailed a trey to be back only 82-81 and then at the 3.13 minute mark, Rhondorf was served a severe blow with the fifth foul of Riauka and Thomas Michel drained free throws for the 83-82 lead. “We made free throws and kept attacking. Our defensive intensity was very good. We also hit another gear with our energy with getting rebounds and getting on transition something we didn´t do in the first half”, warned Tucker Haymond. David Falkenstein tied the score at 83-83 with a free throw, but Cologne struck back as Michel offered a perfect shovel pass to Kolo for the easy basket and 85-83 advantage. Waller made a big lay in to cut the RheinStars lead to 86-85 with 44 seconds to go. After a Nemcok miss, the Dragons Rhondorf had 14 seconds left to win the game, but coughed up the ball on the inbounds play. Rhondorf then quickly fouled Nemcok who made one of two free throws for the 87-85 lead. With 11 seconds to play, Rhondorf had the ball and chance for the win with a trey or send it into overtime with a two point basket. Nothing of that came, as the RheinStars closed down the Rhondorf primary targets as they were left with Koschade who had to finish himself. He had a good look, but missed. Kolo then closed out the game with two free throws. “We keyed in on their top players and forced them to take a shot they didn´t want to take”, stressed Tucker Haymond. “Koschade made a read and had a makeable shot. It was a tough miss, but his defense on Nemcock was amazing”, added Anish Sharda. The RheinStars were led by Tucker Haymond with 25 points. Yasin Kolo added 24 points and Benedict Van Laack contributed 15 points. The Dragons Rhondorf were led by Zygimantas Riauka with 24 points and Kwam Waller added 22 points. The RheinStars shot 43% from the field and 46% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 17 coughed up balls while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 49% from the field and 41% from outside and got 36 rebounds and had 20 coughed up balls.

Tucker Haymond is a 24 year old 198cm guard from Seattle, Washington playing his second professional season and first with the Rhein Stars Koeln (Germany-ProB) currently averaging 19,3ppg, 5,0rpg and 2,5apg. Last season he played his rookie year with the Austin Spurs (NBA G-League) playing 33 games averaging 2.6ppg. He began his basketball career at Garfield High School and then played at Western Michigan(NCAA) from 2013-2017 playing a total of 123 games and as a senior played  31 games averaging 14.8ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 75.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the game against the Dragons Rhondorf.

Tucker thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Christmas is around the corner. How will you be spending the Christmas holiday and do you have anything on your wish list?

I will be going to Paris with my wife for about 5 days. Going to see a lot of the museums and sights. Excited to show my wife my favorite place I’ve been to in Europe. Wish list is some wins after the break!

 Despite the slow start by the RheinStars, how have you experienced your first season overseas? What has been the biggest transition for you?

 It’s been very fun, adjusting to a different playing style. I think the biggest transition is the physicality is a lot higher here than in America, But I like it.

The team has massive problems to score points and have massive problems getting stops. Why has the club not been able to improve in these two aspects this season?

I think we have had issues with that just because how young our club is as a whole. Guys have been working really hard to learn and get better at this but some things just come with experience and playing. We have made big improvements as a team, just might not always show up.

After playing in the G-League last season how much of a difference is there in skill level between the G-League and the Pro B? Have you been surprised by the difference in skill level?

There is a very big difference. G league is full of NBA players, draft picks, past NBA players and NBA assignment guys, and the athleticism is very very high. The skill level in Pro B is good, but doesn’t compare to the g league.

Let´s talk about your teammates. You have mostly young German teammates. Which German player has impressed you the most so far this season?

Phillip Kukic has probably impressed me the most, he has come a long way in developing as a point guard. He has a bright future as a point guard for sure.

What has impressed you most about the game of Yassin Kolo and have you traded stories from the NCAA?

Yasin has impressed me a lot this his ability to pass out of the post and to knock down the pick and pop 3 pointer. We haven’t talked much about NCAA more so pro stories.

Let´s talk a bit about your game. You describe your game to a Gordon Hayward. How do you feel has his game affected you the most to be able to be the player that you are today?

Just watching how he scores and does a lot of different things on the court has helped. I like watching different players games and trying to take things from it.

You can do a bit of everything on the court. What are some things that you are working on the most now to help improve your game in your effort to move up the basketball ladder?

I’m continuing to work on my playmaking ability, it’s something I’ve never had to do and the more I work on it the better I get at seeing things on the court.

You have been up and down as a shooter as last year you were near 40% from outside and this year currently below 30%. What is the biggest challenge for you as you continue to be the best shooter possible?

Shooters sometimes go through slumps, I started a bit slow this season from three but the last few games I’ve been shooting it well. I expect to be above 30% over the next few games I’m not worried ever about making shots.

You played your rookie season in the G-League with the Austin Spurs playing 33 games averaging 2,6ppg. What kind of experience was this for you? How disappointing was it not getting more minutes?

It was one of the best experiences I’ve had, there’s something to be said about being a professional and learning from guys who are better than you. Working hard every day not knowing if I’d play or not kept me always working hard. It made me hungry to get better every day.

How special was it winning the G-League title considering with all the player moves and lack of team basketball during a season?

Winning the g league title was awesome, I will always remember it. With the Spurs we played great team basketball.

Was your 14 point game in 12 minutes in the 140-128 win against South Bay one of your most memorable G-League games? –

I think that was a fun one, I liked playing in the at&t arena though probably the most.

You played 123 NCAA games at Western Michigan from 2013-2017. Was winning the MAC tournament in 2014 over Toledo where you scored 21 points as a freshman or playing in front of 4,000 on senior night your most memorable moment there?

Definitely winning the Mac championship as a freshman. That was a lot of fun.

8 years before joining Western Michigan you met coach Steve Hawkins in Hawaii and then you played for years for him. What would you like to tell him 8 years down the road in 2026 if you met him again then?

 I’d ask him if he was going to hire me as an assistant coach !

How special were the battles with E Michigan and Central Michigan? Is there a game that you will never forget? I can imagine beating them on senior night 88-80. What memories do you have of that game

That game on senior night was very fun against central Michigan. Our rivalry games were always packed against them. I love sold out games.

NBA player Markelle Fultz belonged to the toughest guys you battled in the NCAA. What made it so difficult to slow him down?

He was a very good player. Very athletic and a great scorer. He was a talent to play against.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Reggie Jones?

 Me

Your ex teammate at Western Michigan Thomas Wilder has struggled as a rookie playing briefly in Germany with BBL team Ludwigsburg and now is with the Windy City Bulls. How confident are you that he will break out soon?

He will break out soon. He was a NBA prodigy and had teams interested in him. Basketball is all about situation and opportunity. He will have a great career no doubt about it.

 You played at Garfield high school that has notable alumni like Bruce Lee, Quincy Jones and Jimi Hendrix to name just a few. Which of these three would you most liked to have met?

 I would like to meet Jimi Hendrix because he has such a legendary name and was an icon worldwide

You played against many great players, but who is the toughest guy that you battled ever on the court that made it to the NBA?

 Playing against Jamal Crawford every summer since I’ve been in middle school back home. He is the hardest person I’ve had to guard. Very skilled and also a great person. Always love playing with Jamal.

 If you had to pick your personal favorite starting five of teammates over the years which players would you chose? –

Tony Wroten, Me, Darrun Hilliard, Livio Jean-Charles, Amida Brimah

 If you had to construct your very own NBA mount Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick?

Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Bill Russel

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James?

Michael Jordan. No question.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Equalizer 2

Thanks Tucker for the chat.

Zygimantas Riauka is a 25 year old 205cm center from Lithuania playing his fourth professional season and first with the Dragons Rhoendorf (Germany-ProB). It has been a tough season for the Dragons Rhondorf with Riauka being one of the only bright spots as he belongs to one of the top big men in the Pro B currently averaging 16,6ppg, 12,4rpg and 3,5apg. Last season he played with Team FOG Naestved (Denmark-Ligaen) playing 30 games averaging 7.0ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 54.1%, FT: 72.9%. He began his career at Wisc.-Parkside (NCAA2) in 2011 and as a senior played 19 games averaging 14.5ppg, 7.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.9bpg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 67.3%. He returned back to Europe in 2015 and played with El Olivar Zaragoza (Spain-LEB Silver) playing 26 games averaging 13.0ppg, 7.3rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 79.7%. He remained in Spain and in 2016-2017 played with Caceres Patrimonio de la Humanidad (Spain-LEB Gold) playing 34 games averaging 4.6ppg, 3.8rpg. He spoke to germanhoops.com shortly before the start of the season about basketball.

Hi Zygi thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Congrats on signing with German pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. You have played in Spain and Denmark in the last three years. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

I know Germany is very big on soccer but also they are huge fans of Dirk.

You grew up in Illinois. What connections do you have to Lithuania and have you lived there when you were smaller?

I was born in Lithuania and moved to Chicago when I was 8 with my parents.

More than 5 years ago you played against Germany in the U-20 European championships winning 74-62 and you scored 6 points, had 4 rebounds and w assists. You played against many future BBL players like Kenneth Ogbe. What memories do you have of that game?

I don’t really remember playing against Kenneth, but I do remember they had a very strong and tall center at the time that I had to play against.

You have signed with the Dragons Rhondorf. With what kind of expectations are you coming to Rhondorf? You are a young player, but will be one of the oldest. Are you ready for that leadership role?

I’m coming to Rhöndorf with the expectation with contributing to the winning culture they had last year. I know it’s a young team but we are also very hungry so hopefully we will find our roles as the season continues but yes I am ready for the leadership role and I think that’s what the coach saw as well because he named me co captain this year.

The club was very high on your abilities, but what were the deciding factors that allowed you to chose the Dragons Rhondorf as your new team?

After I talked to the coach I was very happy of what he had to say and especially since he watched my games before so he knew what I can give to the team plus that I would be given such great conditions such as a shooting gun and practice time at the gym when needed.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a big physical player that also has good game intelligence. If you had to compare your game to a Lithuanian player and NBA player who would best fit how you play?

From Lithuania I have no idea but from the NBA I would say Nikolai Jokic.

You were really a block monster in the NCAA 2 averaging 2,5blocks per game in your last two seasons. You haven´t averaged a block as a professional. Stats don´t always tell the whole story. Have you changed as a defender or will your block shotting tendencies come back again?

The last couple of years my blocks were down because I was always a little more hesitant on picking up fouls but this year coming off the bench I’m not going to worry about that

You’re a guy that can fill the stat sheet with ease, but what do you feel is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

One thing that is hidden about my game is the way I throw the outlet pass

Last season you played with Team FOG Naestved (Denmark-Ligaen) playing 30 games averaging 7.0ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 54.1%, FT: 72.9%. It was kind of an up and down season. Some games you played a lot other games you didn´t. You hardly played a role in the playoffs as in the last 7 games you played a total of only 46 minutes. What positives could you take from the season?

One thing I learned about last year is just to support your teammates and wait patiently for your chance. It’s not always up to you if you are going to play but when you get the chance go and help the team no matter what role is given to you.

How valuable was it battling 275 pound beast Christopher Gabriel every day in practice? Did your physicality grow last season having to put up with him on the court?

Chris Gabriele has actually helped me drastically last season. I learned so much from him not only on the court but also off since we were living together I am very grateful for getting that opportunity.

Two seasons ago you played with Caceres Patrimonio de la Humanidad (Spain-LEB Gold) playing 34 games averaging 4.6ppg, 3.8rpg. This was the highest professional level that you ever played at. How challenging was the season for you having had a strong rookie season in the Leb Silver and then moving up a league and playing less minutes?

Playing in second league Spain was not that different from playing in 3rd league Spain. It’s just I wasn’t given as much minutes and I was brought there to play the 4 position but half way through the year they moved my back to center. I loved the city and the team

You split with FC Barcelona 2 and played against some well known veterans like Jordi Trias and Victor sada as well as future NBA player Rodions Kurucs. Were you in awe playing against this famous organization or wa sit just another game?

Unfortunately in my situation I had an incredible center at that time there Alexander Marcius or Sandi how we all called him so it was another great experience for me to learn from an older guy and to develop my skills defensively.

As a rookie you played with El Olivar Zaragoza (Spain-LEB Silver) playing 26 games averaging 13.0ppg, 7.3rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 79.7%. What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Europe where you knew that you were very far away from home?

For me playing in Zaragoza was amazing. It was the first time ever in Spain and I was also on the second team. I became got home sick besides for missing my family and friends a little but for the most part I loved it since I got to finally play basketball and be considered a professional.

You played at Wisc.-Parkside (NCAA2) from 2011-2015. What were your fondest memories on and off the court?

My time in college was amazing I got to play for one of the best coaches I have had ever.

How did head coach Luke Reigel groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Coach Luke Reigel made my game what it is now and made me understand that you can’t just rely on one thing. You have to have multiple options to score instead of just relying on my right hand hook.

You played against many great players in your life, but which player was your toughest opponent that might be in the NBA now?

Growing up my biggest opponent would have had to be Frank Kaminski. We have had many great battles in high school and even once in college.

If you had to construct your very own NBA Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick old or new?

My NBA Rushmore would be Lebron, Jordan, Magic, and Shaq.

What is your personal opinion of the never-ending debate about who is better Lebron or Jordan?

I think lebron is better because he makes everyone better and does everything well much more well rounded player in my opinion.

Thanks Zygi for the chat.

Not every player that wore an NCAA 2 jersey can say that they have had such a stellar and enriching professional career that has brought one to the Euroleague and two training camp outings with the Boston Celtics, but Jamar Smith who averaged 21,6ppg as a senior at S Indiana and shot at a clip of 44% from the parking lot in his last two years can. It even brought him to Bamberg for a season in between the Chris Fleming and Andrea Trinchieri years in the 2013-2014 season. Since then he has become a very good player in Europe having played in France with Limoges, Played Euroleague with Malaga and won the Eurocup in 2017 with the Spanish side and played Eurocup with Russian team Kazan. It was more than four and a half years since he played his only professional game in the Fraport arena where he led all scorers with 18 points and helped Bamberg to a convincing 64-54 victory in a defensive battle that also featured Casey Jacobson in his last professional season. This season Jamar Smith is an instrumental part of the success in the Eurocup with the team´s 8-1 record and is the team´s second leading scorer and shooting an amazing 45% from outside and is the teams scoring leader in the VTB league. Frankfurt rested freak athlete Quantez Robertson and Erik Murphy for the big quarterfinal cup game on Saturday against Braunschweig and the ex Auburn star was disappointed he couldn´t battle Jamar Smith again and was impressed with his 49 Eurocup game streak of at least one three pointer made. “Smith is a heck of a scorer. He has a nice mid range game and can shoot the three. I was looking forward to guarding him, but coach gave me the night off. His 49 game shooting streak is a big accomplishment and shows the type of shooter he is and the confidence that he has as a shooter”, warned Quantez Robertson. After the victory, Smith had no idea of his current streak. “I remember that game four years ago. Frankfurt played us tough for three quarters, the same way they did tonight. It would have been nice to have played against Tez. It is dope that he said that about me. He is a really tough defender and I also would have liked to have played against. Concerning that streak, I´m a shooter and that is what I do. But I hate that you told me that”, smiled Jahmar Smith.

Unics Kazan entered the Fraport arena and met a successful 6-3 Eurocup team Fraport Skyliners, but a poor EasyCredit BBL team as the club had been struggling. The game was meaningless as both clubs had already qualified for the next round and were playing for pride as Unics Kazan set the tone from the start and the Fraport Skyliners had to play catch up all game long and were at eye level in crunch-time, but little mistakes and offensive rebounds that couldn´t lead to buckets cost them the win as they lost 72-65. After the victory, one noticed that ex Georgetown guard Jason Clark was disappointed with the tight loss, but content with the effort that his team gave against the top team of the group. “Overall we fought very well, but this was a game where guys could work to become better. There were good and bad things in this game. We showed flashes of good offense where we moved the ball and got open looks and also had good moments on defense, but we did miss rotations and lacked communication at times. We were unable to take advantage of offensive rebounds that hurt us”, stressed Fraport Skyliner guard Jason Clark. After the win Canadian national player Melvin Ejim was content with the win and was happy with how the team closed out the win. “We played very well for three quarters. They are a very well coached team and I have played under Gordon Herbert. We didn´t have  a good third quarter, but overall we had good intensity, made good plays and adjusted well in getting the win”, stressed ex Iowa State forward Melvin Ejim.

1,350 fans turned out for a meaningless last round game and saw Russian side Unics Kazan jump all over the Fraport Skyliners early, but the home team did make strides at the end of the first quarter to get back into the game. Both teams traded three´s early as ex ratiopharm Ulm guard Pierria Henry and Jason Clark drilled home trey´s. Unics Kazan then got their offense going while keeping a high intensity on defense that stifled Frankfurt as they went out on a 11-2 run to extend their lead to 14-5. In the run, the Russian club got vital support from Ejim, ex Braunschweig guard Trent Lockett and another trey from Henry. Frankfurt couldn´t muster any offense from any other players except for Jason Clark who scored the team´s first 7 points. Down the stretch, the Fraport Skyliners got some important contribution from their young players Garai Zeeb who hit a trey and Trae Bel-Haynes who hat 4 points to help cut into the Unics Kazan lead. Russian Pavel Sergeev who played in Frankfurt four years earlier in the Eurochallenge with Enisey Krasnoyarsk (VTB) hit a key trey late to keep Frankfurt at bay as they trailed 23-16 as they were lighting it up from outside shooting 80% and had a grip on the boards. “It was tough playing without Tez our anchor and Murphy. But when guys go down others have to step up. It took us a while to get started as we got off to a slow start”, said Jason Clark.

In the second quarter, the Fraport Skyliners made a little run early to get close to Unics Kazan, but their inconsistency and continued lack of discipline allowed the Russian side to get back to double figures in their lead. 31 year old 204cm big man Maxim Sheleketo who last played for Avtodor got his team on the board with free throws, but then it was the time for German big man Leon Kratzer to propel Frankfurt to new heights. In a span of a few minutes, he totally dominated in the paint leading Frankfurt on a 6-0 run to cut the Unics Kazan lead to 25-22 as he made a tip in and two beautiful old school hook shots. Kratzer was very active on the paint and took full advantage of the extra playing time due to the absence of Erik Murphy while Unics Kazan lost their offensive rhythm and were forcing too many shots. However basketball will always be a game of runs and that Frankfurt run didn´t faze Unics Kazan. But sort of motivated them to fire back at Frankfurt which they did going out on a lethal 7-0 run to extend their lead to 32-22. In the run the Russian side was sparked by the precision shooting of Jamar Smith who was with the Boston Celtics twice, but couldn´t stick nailing two shots while ex Illinois State forward Jackie Carmichael grabbed an offensive rebound and finished with a left handed hook shot. The Fraport Skyliners had too many up and down phases and especially on defense too many break downs as they showed no stability. After a time out, the Fraport Skyliners clamed down a bit and generated better decisions on offense and got some big shots from Clark and Bell Haynes from outside cutting the Unics Kazan lead to 36-30. Frankfurt was unable to dig into the Unics Kazan lead more as Ejim and Carmichael made big shots down the stretch as the Russian team went into the break with the 43-35 advantage. “We were up and down having good and rough patches. Kratzer was big for us at the start. He was very active on the boards and on defense did a good job altering shots”, said Jason Clark. Unics Kazan shot 50% from the two point range and 54% from outside and had 17 rebounds and 5 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 37% form the two point range and 38% from outside and had 21 rebounds and 7 turnovers.

The third quarter was the Fraport Skyliner´s best defensive quarter, but they could really make a big dent in the lead or take advantage of their stops as their offense floundered and couldn´t gain consistency in results of more buckets. The Fraport Skyliners went on a big 8-0 run to dead lock the game at 43-43 while being a steel wall on defense stopping Unics Kazan on 10 consecutive possessions. In the run the Fraport Skyliners received key contribution from Kratzer again as he was a beast in the paint getting three lay in´s. Jason Clark took advantage of good ball movement and scored in the paint. Unics Kazan finally got their first field goal and points of the third quarter at the 2,46 minute mark as 31 year old 205cm Russian Andrey Koscheev who began his career with LenVO Sankt Petersburg (B Superleague) got a lay in after getting the bullet pass from Smith. It took Unics Kazan 7,14 minutes to score their first basket of the third quarter and then 26 seconds later scored their second bucket of the quarter as Unics Kazan practiced the second consecutive back door play as Locket scored getting the dime from Koscheev and Frankfurt trailed 47-43. Frankfurt then got a runner from ex Baylor(NCAA) stand out Brady Heslip and a trey from Finish national player Shawn Huff, but couldn´t get over the hump as Kosheev scored inside and Sergeev nailed a trey as Unics Kazan led 52-48 after the third frame. “We got good looks in the third, but our shots just weren´t falling and couldn´t get to our spots. They played good defense”, added Melvim Ejim. “We didn´t change anything up, but just came out more aggressive. We communicated better on offense and moved better on offense”, stated Jason Clark.

The fourth quarter was a real old fashioned dog fight where the Fraport Skyliners were on the heels of Unics Kazan, but couldn´t get over the hump in crunch-time. Fraport Skyliners head coach gave young German Richard Freudenberg and young Swede Elijah Clarance more responsibility and they didn´t disappoint as the ex St Johns forward made a turn around shot and before the ex Illinois State guard started making noise with his shooting, he made two terrific assists to center Marco Voeller. Clarance who is a combo guard, but is learning more to play the point has made strides in recent weeks with his court vision and passing abilities. “We have seen his passing before. His athleticism and dunking overshadows his passing. He is a very good passer and once his reading the plays get better so will his passes. We will begin to see more great passes”, warned Jason Clark. With Unics Kazan struggling on offense, Clarance took matters into his own hands scoring 5 points including a trey to cut the Russian team´s lead to 60-59. The Fraport Skyliners offense was really flowing now and their defense was stable and gaining more confidence with each new stop and took the 62-6o lead with a clutch Trae Bell-Haynes trey. The Canadian rookie´s three point shooting has been a work in progress as he is shooting 21% from outside in the easyCredit BBL, but was shooting at a healthy 44,4% clip in the Eurocup. But one has noticed all season long that he doesn´t crave taking three´s, but tries to avoid them. Against Unics Kazan he nailed 2/3 three´s and looked a lot more confident than usual. “His confidence is getting better with each new shot made. The difference is that he is putting in more work. He is staying after practice and coming before practice and coming in on off days to work on his shot. That is what you have to do to keep a rhythm and  stay consistent. The more he sees the ball going in, the more confident he will get”, warned Jason Clark. But the Fraport Skyliners just couldn´t build on this huge three as they allowed Unics Kazan to close out the game with a 12-3 run to win the game. Unics Kazan executed well on offense as Smith made a difficult looking bank shot which was followed by a Carmichael lay in and Evgeny Kolesnikov who is a 33 year old forward who played with Enisey Krasnoyarsk (VTB) in this arena four years ago in an exciting Eurochallenge quarterfinal game made a lay in and free throws which was the seventh consecutive point and 67-62 lead for Unics Kazan. Heslip then answered with a beautiful lay in high off the glass to put some hope into the minds of Frankfurt, but that was quickly erased by a Carmichael basket for the 69-64 Unics Kazan advantage. Carmichael finished with 10 points and has adjusted well after recently joining the team. “He is a aggressive player and fits his role well. He has been a big help on defense and has played a significant role for us”, stated Melvin Ejim. Frankfurt then mastered two big offensive rebounds, but couldn´t take advantage of two good looks as 35 year old 206cm Konstantin Kaimakoglou who won the 2011 Euroleague with Panathinaikos Athens made a trey closing the door on the Fraport Skyliners. “We made big plays and shots at the end. Kaimakoglou hit a big shot and our defensive stops held them back”, stated Melvin Ejim. “They hit a couple of tough three´s and we couldn´t take advantage of two good looks, which could of changed the game”, added Jason Clark. Unics Kazan was led by Pierria Henry with 14 points while Jackie Carmichael added 10 points. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Leon Kratzer with 13 points and 11 boards and Jason Clark and Trae Bell_Haynes added 12 points a piece. Unics Kazan shot 51% from the two point range and 43% from the three point line and hauled down 36 rebounds and coughed up the ball 14 times while the Fraport Skyliners shot 46% form the two point line and 30% from the three point line and hauled down 34 rebounds and coughed up the ball 10 times.