John Murry (192-G-95, college: Austin Peay) is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Indianapolis, Indiana that is playing his third professional season in Germany with BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga). Before that he had experience with the Kitchener-Waterloo Titans. He played two years at Owens Community College playing 63 games and two years at Austin Peay State University (NCAA) playing 56 NCAA games and as a senior averaged 16.7ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 81.1%. He and Miles Schmidt-Scheuber talk weekly about basketball.

Another game and another loss. Grevenbroich is now 0-4. How tough is basketball life at the moment for you and the organization?

It’s very tough but also a challenge that we have excepted. It’s a challenge to look in the mirror and fix the things we need to work on to be better everyday.

The close games usually hurt the most. Why couldn’t Grevenbroich pull out the win in crunch-time?

We need to make better decisions down the stretch and take care of the ball and things will be better not just in the end but all game long

Taking care of the ball continued to be a major problem again. You had 21 turnovers as a team. Do you feel like this has become amental problem?

Yes, it’s all mental at this point, we have to do a better job of taking care of the ball and making plays in the end.

The team continues to rebound the ball very well. What continues to be the secret of rebounding so well? Especially Dzemal Selimovic was a beast with 7 offensive turnovers.

Dzemal is great for us on the glass and does things we don’t take for granted.

Grevenbroich has a very slim 6-7 man rotation. Do you feel like this could give the team problems as the season continues?

We all need to step up and play our role as strong as possible like I know we can.

What was it in general playing against American Kendall Stafford? He was contained pretty well with only 8 points.
You had a good scoring and rebounding game with 28/10, but I can imagine that the shooting percentages is one you will continue to want to correct this week?

Yes, it’s just continuing to stick to my craft and focus on finishing plays.

Losing is never easy. What do you try to mentally in a losing streak. What else can one do besides remaining positive?

As the old saying would go, ‘take it back to the basics’ I watch a ton of film daily. I want to be better for myself that way I can be better for the team and pull out with a team win.

You next face off against 4-1 team Ibbenbueren. What will be the focus this week in achieving that first win?

Just sticking to what we do and moving the ball, sticking to our defensive principles and making shots down the stretch.

Halloween is around the corner. What are your memories of Halloween as a kid? What do you remember being your favorite costumes?

I remember being outside playing ball in the park on a Halloween night, my friends and I were clowning each other about who was scared to walk home at night when it was dark.
Fun times!!!

Thanks John for the chat.

Yasin Kolo (208-C-92, college: Bellarmine) is a 29 year old 208cm center that is playing his sixth professional season and second with the Itzehoe Eagles (ProB). He has needed no adjustment to the Pro A as currently he is averaging13,0ppg, 9,3rpg and 1,0apg. Last season in the Pro B with Itzehoe he played 29 games averaging 15.5ppg, 7.7rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 81.3%. The season before he played with the wiha Panthers Villingen-Schwenningen (ProA) playing 15 games averaging 8.7ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 81.0%. In 2018-2019 he played with the Rhein Stars Koeln (ProB) playing 11 games averaging 16.8ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 74.3%. AS a rookie he played 17 BBL games with Tuebingen and also boats professional experience with Ehingen and the Artland Dragons. He began his basketball career with ASC 46 Goettingen (2.Regionalliga) and then spent six years in the States getting valuable experience with the Fayetteville Christian School and palyed 15 NCAA games in total with East Carolina and Hartford. He finished his college career with Bellarmine (NCAA2) playing 29 games averaging11.0ppg, 5.8rpg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 46.6%, FT: 66.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com following his Pro B season with Itzehoe.

Yasin thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. What goals do you remember head coach Pat Elzie telling you when you arrived in Itzehoe in August 2020? Did they come true?

His Goal was for me to be in the best shape possible heading into the playoffs, after my past injury. He wanted me to be a key part in us moving up to Pro A, and I tried to do just that. The Gameplan was successful.

Before we talk about basketball, I have to ask you about COVID. What was the most challenging thing for you in your second season with COVID?

We had to be in quarantine for a couple weeks, right before playoffs. That was very tough. Being out for two weeks and then prepare for do or die games was a very difficult task. But this season was another chance to grow as an athlete. There’s always beauty in the struggle.

How can one honestly rate this season with all the drama that went on with COVID? Every team had their problems.

That’s a good question. There were a few times that had to quarantine multiple times. I felt really bad for them. Some teams had really bad luck and it’s crazy to imagine how it would’ve been for some teams without covid being around. However, I’d rate my teams season as a straight A, because we got our job done.

Congrats on an amazing season and winning the pro B title. What was special about this seasons team?

Thank you very much. I feel like we had a dog mentality and were at our best when things didn’t look good for us. And we showed that until the very end!

The Itzehoe Eagles didn’t start the season well beginning with a 0-3 record. What were your personal thoughts after 5 games? Possibly that our team was way better than this?

It took a little longer for us to really click as a unit. I wasn’t really worried, but I know that things had to change real quick. I knew that it wasn’t about how we start, it’s always about how you finish.

You then had a solid 14-4 season in the regular season. What do you believe was so special with this years club?

We worked very hard every single practice. You could tell that we really wanted to be Champs. There were a bunch of practices where coach would say “Today, I watched a championship team practice.”

Then you lost two tough games against Schwelm. The team obviously took this as a wake up call and then beat a tough Giessen team 75-74. What important lesson do you feel did the Eagles learn in the Schwelm loses?

We learned that we have to bring more energy to beat them, which we ultimately did twice at the end to become Pro B Champs.

Itzehoe had a strong playoff series and then got revenge on Schwelm. What do you believe was key for getting the finals games won and winning the title?

We really improved our defense and just played very hard and with lots of emotions. We really figured each other out at the right time.

How proud are you of Pat Elzie? The Eagles are his baby and he has helped them reach the Pro A. What do you believe was his strongest quality this season as head coach that helped you overcome all odds?

Pat is a great guy for sure. So I really am proud of him and how he was leading us as a head coach. Right before the playoffs, he was gone for about 3 weeks for personal reasons where we really missed him. It wasn’t the same without him. He believed in us at all times and set the bar high. That’s what helped us succeed. He’d trust every single player on the roster.

Let’s talk about your teammates. You played your first season with the versatile Marko Boksic. How much fun was it being his teammate and in what part of the success was he most instrumental in?

It was fun playing with Marko. Coming from the Regionalliga, I was really impressed with him. He made some very important and big shots for us and his mental strength was a key for our success.

How enjoyable was it having big man Chris Hooper besides you. How did he make your game so much easier?

We complemented each other very well. We grew very close and we said to ourselves that we wanted to be the best big man duo in Pro B. Which we were. His confidence and energy really translated into me trying to add to it, which made me better at the end.

Can Chris Hooper be an impact player in the Pro A?

Pro A is definitely different from Pro B, but I support him at all times and believe that he can become whatever he wants to be and be successful at it. So yes.

How valuable were the two German guards Niclas Sperber and Erik Nyberg? They didn’t put up massive stats, but played their roles perfectly

They did a lot of things that wouldn’t show up on the stat sheet. There were a few games where they were difference makers and got us important wins. Niclas and Erik were crucial in us winning the championship.

How valuable was experienced German Flavio Stuckemann for helping everyone stay together in tough times? He didn’t have a big scoring role, but his presence was huge.

He was a great leader for us, making sure that we got out head on straight when things didn’t go as planned. He was one of our best defenders and energizers. He would always step up when we really needed him.

Let’s talk about your game. You averaged 15.5ppg, 7.7rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 81.3%. How content were you with your season?

I felt that I became my old self again towards the end of the season where I was really able to show up for my teammates. We won the championship so I am very happy about the season.

You took a step back to go to the pro B after two tough season where you were injured. How blessed do you feel haven done this?

I’m just blessed to play the game I love after 3 surgeries in two years. I came back in a way that no one expected it. Gods Plan.

How much do you feel did your game benefit from having Chris Hooper by your side? He was the work horse, but you also did your share for the good of the team.

Like I said, Chris and I always talked about being the best big man duo in the league. So we pushed each other during practice, and games. After my injuries, I kind of lost the dog mentality inside of me. He helped me to wake up the beast inside of me.

In what part of your game did you see yourself taking another step under the guidance of Pat Elzie?

Definitely my leadership. Coach gave me lots of confidence, but also responsibilities. I grew from that.

ON what area’s of your game will you be working on most this summer so you will be prepared to make the next step as a player

I’ll especially work on my body to make sure that I stay healthy long term. I did it the past season so I keep on working towards that goal. There are many areas that I’m working on. Also expanding my bag of tricks. It’s the first time in 3 years that I’m healthy going into the offseason. Stay tuned.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the Pro B this season?

My teammates in practice.

Chris Paul recently passed Magic Johnson for fifth all-time in assists. Where do you rank him with the best point guards all-time despite never having won a ring?

Top 5.

Where do you see the journey going with Jayson Tatum who recently scored 60 points? Is he a top 10 player in the NBA now?

Not at the moment, but he’ll be there soon. He’s a special talent that you won’t find often.

Dino Radja recently said he couldn’t see Russell Westbrook leading a team in Europe to success. Do you agree?

I guess we are not talking about the same guy then that led the Wizards from the worst team record in the NBA to a playoff spot. He’s an amazing leader I think. Couldn’t disagree more.

Draymond Green recently said that he is the best defender on the planet. Do you agree?

I’d say he’s one of the smartest defenders, but not the best. But I respect his confidence.

Have you seen the Coming to America sequel? It has had mixed reviews. Shouldn’t they just have left it alone?

I didn’t. But I think Coming to America is such an iconic movie that you just enjoy and leave as it is. But that’s just my opinion.

Thanks Yasin for the chat.

It was a Saturday night in Frankfurt as the Fraport Skyliners farm team Juniors were playing a Pro B (3rd division Germany) league game against the Arvato College Wizards. As usual some of the easyCredit BBL Fraport Skyliners pro’s like Skyliner lifer/legend Quantez Robertson was taking in the contest while FC Bayern Munich their opponent the next day were tucked away somewhere in a hotel with ex NBA guys like Darrun Hilliard and Othello Hunter ready to do battle the next day. Meanwhile on the court the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had an average age of only 18 years, but on the other side was a living legend named Rouven Roessler who was only a few weeks shy of his 41st birthday and he was still playing at a high level. He played 5 years in the German BBL and probably could have had an even greater career had he wanted to stay away from his home Karlsruhe, but he was simply a homebody and is in his 18th season with a Karlsruhe organization. Current Fraport Skyliner Juniors kids Alexander Richardson, Calvin Schaum and Jordan Samare weren’t even born when Roessler turned pro in 2000 and Marco Voeller who recently retired was only 11 years old. On the court Rouven Roessler has always been a hardcore competitor that hates to lose. I never saw him snarl at an opponent, but I can imagine that he would be good at it and be able to intimidate his opponent immediately. The theme of having real live basketball dinosaurs is nothing new especially in the easyCredit BBL as there have been quite a few guys in the last years that played into their late 30’s like Derrick Allen, Chris Ensminger or Bernd Kruel. Last year Virgil Matthews decided to hang it up at age 37 and recently three older guys have decided to call it quits after this season including 39 year old Rickey ‘Mr Oldenburg’ Paulding. He has played an incredible and unbelievable 15 seasons for one organization in Germany called the EWE Baskets something very rare nowadays as players move around a lot looking for the best situations financially. Alex King will be 37 when he is finished and Per Guenther 34.’ I played against all three guys. They all define what longevity is. All played at a high level for so many years. Paulding has shown what so many Americans strive for and that is being able to play so long for one team and to be able to call that home. Guenther and King both had incredible careers in Germany’, stressed Kyle Hines (198-C-86, agency: BeoBasket).

Seeing these players that have been around for ages and keep performing at a high level can be found in many countries and leagues all over the world. One of these players is Kyle Hines who turned 35 in September and is battling in the Euroleague with AX Armani Exchange Milano (Italy-Serie A). He is a high energy player that always gives 100%, can score, rebound and block shots with efficiency. He takes incredible care of his body and is in excellent shape. ‘I feel good. I am in good physical shape. I worked a lot on my body and self during the last off season. I wanted to make sure that I would be in the best shape possible. I’m really excited to be playing my second season in Milan. I feel a lot more comfortable being in this organization and in my role’, stated Kyle Hines. He also has that mind set of a Tom Brady who is so serious about his job that he could play for forever. I’m sure that the ex Brose Bamberg center could also give a perfect snarl like Rouven Roessler and I feel this is a guy that could play until he is 40. The question of course is will his body play along every new season and how much will his family have a say in his future as his kids get older being able to spend as much time now becomes more and more of a priority. ‘I will continue to take it year by year and then see how my body feels. I have shown that I can still compete at a high level and still retain a major role with a team. I just love basketball and want to compete at a high level and win as much as I can for as long possible’, warned Kyle Hines.

The ex CSKA center is playing his second season with AX Armani Exchange Milano (Italy-Serie A). When you have won 4 Euroleague titles (most by an American in Euroleague history), the zeal to keep winning just doesn’t stop. With Milan he reached the Euroleague Final 4 again which was the 9th time in his career, but he was denied a fifth crown. Even if he didn’t win, the loss made him so much more hungry to win hardware this season. ‘I will always remember that first season that I had with Milan. We did something that the club hadn’t done in multiple decades. It was incredible to reach the Euroleague final 4. Now we want to continue and take a step forward and be in a position to be successful again this season’, stressed Kyle Hines. 10 seasons ago, Kyle Hines was still a young buck and had only two years of professional experience in Italy and was playing in Germany with Brose Bamberg and still relatively unknown, but climbing the ladder rapidly to the crme de la crme of the Euroleague. At the same time, he was teammates in Bamberg with Tibor Pleiss that was also early in his development and still 5 years away from the NBA. Today Tibor Pleiss is a top center in the Euroleague. Even if Hines didn’t win the Euroleague title, he was thrilled that Pleiss could finally win his first. ‘ I talk to him a lot. Our paths have crossed many times since we were teammates in Bamberg. I was very happy that he had a chance to win the title in his home town. It was extra special after the season before had been cut short because of COVID. His game has developed a lot since Bamberg. He can use his size and strength in many different ways. He has become a very versatile big man’, expressed Kyle Hines.

The American who played the longest time of his career with CSKA Moscow from 2013-2020 will always be able to call Moscow a second home, but after only one season in Milan, it is quite apparent that his heart is really thumping for his new home. ‘I have always had huge respect for the Milan organization. I began my career in Italy and have seen the passion that Milan fans have always had here. That has allowed my admiration for Milan to grow even more. Last year made me feel even more at home. I want to accomplish great things here’, commented Kyle Hines. When you are part of a highly ambitious and goal orientated organization like AX Armani Exchange Milano, it is very clear what the main goals are. ‘. Last year we got to the Euroleague Final 4, but couldn’t finish the job in the Serie A. For us it is a logical step to be a constant contender in the Euroleague and to win the Serie A multiple years’, warned Kyle Hines.The team has started off on fire and are perfect at 5-0 in the Serie A and 5-1 in the Euroleague. On paper they look even stronger than last season, but the always very humble Hines doesn’t want to sound too confident so early in the season. ‘I don’t know if we are stronger than last season, but I feel that we are more balanced. We have added more inside guys and also more athletic and dynamic guards. I think that we have different elements that we didn’t have last year. We haven’t reached our potential yet and want to build and grow each day’, added Kyle Hines.

The Milan roster is stacked with so much talent that I would love to see them compete against some NBA teams. I’m very sure that they would win games. They held on to vital guys like Shavon Shields, Sergio Rodriguez, Malcolm Delaney and Luigi Datome just to mention a few. Of course the club also added new vital and very interesting new components including two ex NBA guys Jerian Grant and Troy Daniels who will have their first experience overseas. ‘Jerian was a high draft pick and played many years in the NBA. He also has a high IQ like Devin Hall. He also comes from a great family back ground with his brother and uncle. He knows the game very well and is a dynamic guard. He can give a little bit of everything from the bench. He is also a really good defender. Now in the Euroleague you have very many high scoring guards so it is important to have versatile guards like Jerian who can get the job done. Troy’s ability to get hot and shoot out the lights will really help us. He is injured now, but already showed in pre season that he can score in bunches. He has shown with us that he can hit three or four three’s in a row. He gives us that special shooting element that will help us succeed. He will be a big help when the pick and roll isn’t working. He can than balance it out with his shooting’, warned Kyle Hines. Another ex NBA player the team reeled in was Devon Hall. He has an advantage over Grant and Daniels in that he has one season of overseas ball under his belt. He reportedly played for a measly 50,000 for Brose Bamberg last season and probably is earning at least 20 times as much in Milan. A guy that played for so little has to have an incredible character in a business that today is dominated by the bucks. ‘Devin is a real professional that really cares about his craft and wants to get better each day. Going to Bamberg was a good move. It allowed him to develop his game further and allowed him to get a better feel for the European game. He has flourished already with us and really compliments the other guards. He can guard 1-3 and is just great for us. Plus he comes from a great basketball family and played at a very respected program Virginia. He also has a great basketball IQ and his back ground is a big reason for his early success’, stressed Kyle Hines. Another ex NBA player and player that Hines met for years in the Euroleague is Italian Nicolo Mello who could be that type of glue guy for them. ‘He is very important for us. He is another one of those players that can help us in so many ways. He can give us the low post touches, make the right reads, right passes out of the post and is a great shooter. He also has a high IQ and always makes the right decisions’, added Kyle Hines.

He may be 35 years old, but the New Jersey native who saw the sequel to the classic Coming To America and believed it was the right thing to do to allow a new generation to see it with fresh eyes and to see the nostalgia is still not declining in his game. His stats and team play are excellent as always and as usual his biggest goal as always is doing everything possible to help his team win every night. He has that Tom Brady mentality. Skills usually decline with age, but they decline more when the body isn’t functioning as well. Look at Brady. He is in shape like a 28 year old and is still at the top of his game. Last season his stats seemed to be declining, but he was still good enough to win his seventh Superbowl and this season he is playing like a guy who is maybe 30 and not 44 and recently got his 600 touch down pass which is the most in NFL history. Brady’s relelntless focus of staying healthy has helped his game be consistent. Taking care of his body is also Kyle Hines foremost priority in order to continue to play with the best in the Euroleague. ‘I really work on my health. I want to be sure that I’m in the best shape possible so I can stay on the floor. I had some small injuries last season. This season I want to stay as close to 100% as possible. I just want to fill my role, make the right reads and play great defense’, stressed Kyle Hines. Especially the wear and tear inside isn’t easy to come to terms with when your getting older, but for him it is just normal to keep banging. But it is the extra work off the court that allows him to keep banging and be an inside force in the Euroleague. ‘I’m always trying to do different things to help me. If it’s weight training or strength and conditioning. I do these things so my body can continue to take the punishment, but also so I can be able to give it out. As I get older I need to train smarter and not harder’, warned Kyle Hines. If he wasn’t the aggressive and passionate defender that he is now, then he wouldn’t be where he is now. ‘My defense is one of the reasons why I’m on the floor and am still able to play at a high level. I take so much pride on defense. I always want to stop players. Defense has always been my calling card and I hope that it continues’, stated Kyle Hines.

But he isn’t only making a difference on the court for his club, but off the court also exceling especially in the community. Last summer he and his brother Tyler conducted the learn from the pro’s’ camp where they give back to the community and showed kids how the game really works. ‘I get great satisfaction teaching kids the game. Our goal is to leave the game better than how we found it giving knowledge to the youth. I feel that if we would have had these opportunities when we were young then we would have been better players. So why not help youths from my area get better? We enjoy working with the kids’, said Kyle Hines. He also continues to be active with the Euroleague Players Association which held it’s annual general assembly in Barcelona in September where former ELPA president Luigi Datome’s term came to an end and Tornike Shengelia stepped on board. ‘The Euroleague will continue to get better. The new Euroleague collective bargaining agreement is a first of it’s kind. This will help make better relations with teams and the players. This will help make the league stronger and help it grow’, commented Kyle Hines. Of course he continues to follow his ex team CSKA who added key parts with Alexy Shved and Kenneth Faried and wouldn’t be surprised if they are back in the Euroleague Final 4 together with Milan in Berlin in 2022. ‘They will always be CSKA which is one of the dominant teams in the Euroleague. They have reached the Final 4 in like 13 of the last 14 seasons. They will be a top team again this season. I don’t expect any less’, warned Kyle Hines. But let’s get back to that snarl again. How does the acclaimed actor Forest Whittaker fit into this equation. Well the actor who has been making movies for almost 40 years and won an Academy Award, Golden Globe, British Academy Film Award and Screen Actors Guild Award broke into acting in 1982 in the classic Fast Times At Ridgemont High. In that classic 80’s flick, he played the typical high school football jock who had some very memorable scenes that I continue to watch on You Tube including when he finds out his Trans Am was trashed. But it actually wasn’t the rival high school, but the goofy Sean Penn who was out joyriding in his car while he was on a college visit. Penn’s idea to make him think that the rival school did that to his car and not take the blame probably saved him a hospital visit. When Whittaker sees his car, he unleashes a quick sneaky snarl and after that totally takes apart the team winning the game. Not only a Rouven Roessler could unleash that classic snarl before taking apart the opponent, but also a Kyle Hines especially being that defensive stopper. I would love to see that Kyle Hines snarl once before he retires. If he keeps taking care of his body and just never loses that desire to play the game he loves, then I’m confident that he will play some more years. Maybe he will snarl once for me. And if not, I’ll always have that Forest Whittaker memory from my favorite movie of all-time Fast Times At Ridgemont High..

It is more than 5 years ago when the Fraport Skyliners hoisted their third title and first international one with the Fiba Europe Cup in Chalon, France. Skyliner point guard Jordan Theodore had been contained very well for the first three quarters, but in crunch-time the ex Seton Hall(NCAA) guard finally broke out of his shell and took over the way great players do. He hit a clutch three from the top of the key and nailed three free throws to seal the win. It is always amazing how well players can still remember certain points of a game. You ask a Boris Becker about one of his Wimbledon wins 30 years ago and he can still remember crucial rallies at 4-3 in the fifth set. It wasn´t any different for Quantez Robertson. I have two vivid memories from that epic game as the siren sounded. First when Jordan Theodore threw the ball with so much power towards the Le Colisee ceiling and second when Quantez Robertson came over and slapped my hands in celebration of the win as I was sitting court side. But the Skyliner legend also had vivid memories of the last minutes of the thrilling 66-62 victory. As always Tez was very diplomatic about whether the team would have won without Jordan Theodore. “He definitely was a key player down the stretch as he made big shots. But it was also a collective team effort. John Little played some great defense on Chris Wright and the big guys with Joe Voigtmann, Danilo Barthel and Mike Morrison also did a good job. They also got good effort from Brandon Davies and Malik Wayans, but we all stepped up as a team and buckled down on defense”, remembered Quantez Robertson who last saw the movie Sonic the Hedgehog. With all the problems that the Fraport Skyliners are having now, it would great if Jordan Theodore could return to his old stomping ground, but it would unfortunately be more of a dream happening than it being realistic.

                I reach Quantez Robertson on a Tuesday Night at 8:00pm as now with his injury he has even more family time between rehab sessions. A week ago he told me he would be back after the Munich game. This time he told me that he hopes to be back after the ratiopharm Ulm game. That just shows how badly the captain wants to be back and help his team be successful. His ex teammate Jason Clark who is playing in Belarus this season with Tmoki-Minsk predicted that Tez will be back  a lot earlier than all would think. It´s no different with Tez. “I wish I could play in Ulm. But I can´t be back in Ulm this weekend. It´s doctors orders. I have to see the doctor on November 1^st. I hope to be back for the Bamberg game”, warned Quantez Robertson. It didn´t take the ex Auburn(NCAA) player long to remember exactly when he had his longest injury with Frankfurt. It was the 2013-2014 season.” I missed the whole first three months. It´s tough because you go to rehab and then see all the guys practice and you can´t be with them. It´s just real tough watching them from the sidelines”, stated Quantez Robertson. Recently his ex teammate Jason Clark called him his GOAT and off course Tez had to return the love. “Jason was a hell of a mid range shooter. He and Jimmy Mckinney were the best mid range shooters that I ever played with. If Jason got anywhere near the free throw line, you could get back on defense, because 9 out of 10 times it was going in”, remembered Quantez Robertson.

                Quantez Robertson  who feels that ex teammate Isaac Bonga has to be as productive as possible with the Toronto Raptors in the minutes he gets during Pascal Siakam´s injury was in a good mood when I reached him, but it is obvious that the 0-5 start by the Fraport Skyliners is something that really is bothering him. Even if it may not show on the court, he believes that the team is better than what the record shows. “It is very frustrating. We know that we let a couple of games get away. We just take it day by day and game by game and fight as hard as we can. We never gave up. Even in the blow out loses to Berlin and Munich we fought to the end”, warned Quantez Robertson. The club made progress against the Telekom Baskets Bonn playing better and had some good phases against FC Bayern Munich, but how far are they from finally playing 40 minutes of solid basketball? “I don´t think that we are that far away from that. We have had games where we came out strong, or picked it up in the third quarter or in the fourth quarter. We need to put all quarters together. There are times when our offense isn´t working and we have too many turnovers. We have to take care of the ball and limit our turnovers. You can have bad offense, but as long as there are no turnovers, it isn´t that bad. It still isn´t good, but at least your getting off shots ”, said Quantez Robertson. A big handicap in the Fraport Skyliners game is their defense. At the moment they give up 85 points per game. In the past they belonged to the best defensive teams in the easyCredit BBL under ex head coach Gordon Herbert, but the team now is as far away from defending like that as it apparently is for Jordan Theodore to return back to Frankfurt. “We have a lot of new guys and it is taking a bit longer for them to get accustomed to our defensive philosophy. Our biggest problem is communication. In the past we communicated very well and bought into the system which led to our success”, added Quantez Robertson.  Another problem is how Frankfurt defends on the switches. Head coach Diego O´Campo stated that the team isn´t ready to defend switches against a high level team like FC Bayern Munich. “We have some guys that can guard the perimeter. If we switch it is tough for the guards to defend bigger guys. I think that on the most part that we have done a pretty good job on switches. I mean we barely switch. What hurts us most is not being able to rebound the ball”, expressed Quantez Robertson. The club has some talent on offense, but as a team haven´t put it together and are the worst shooting three point team in the BBL. “We take good shots, but we have to learn to hit our open looks. We have to get up more reps in practice and just shoot with self-confidence. As we see more shots go in, we will gain more self-confidence”, warned Quantez Robertson.

                Despite the horrible start by the Fraport Skyliners, there have been some guys that have done as well as they could in the minutes that they got especially some of the young German players. Lorenz Brenneke came to Frankfurt with nothing being guaranteed, but he has really stepped up. He is averaging 6,6ppg, 6,2rpg, 1,2apg and 1,0spg while shooting 55% from the field and 60% from outside. “He didn´t have a real role with Alba Berlin. But he has come here and worked very hard and got a lot bigger role. He has scored and rebound well. He has shown that he is pretty good with the minutes that he has gotten”, said Quantez Robertson.  Another young German that has had an amazing development in the last year has been Alexander Richardson. He came to Frankfurt in 2020 with just a big body and being very raw. A year later he has gotten more than just minutes, but the confidence from head coach Diego O´Campo. He has become a solid performer in the Pro B averaging 8,8ppg and 3,8rpg and 3,5ppg and 3,5rpg in the BBL. A weakness last season was his footwork something that has been diligently been worked on this season. “His foot work has improved and so has his self-confidence when he is in the post. He has been working hard with Klaus Perwas and trying to get even stronger. It has really paid off”, stated Quantez Robertson. Another guy that began slowly, but has made a little bit of progression is rookie Dutch giant Matt Haarms who is averaging 7,6ppg, 4,4rpg 1,4bpg. He is shooting 72% from the field. Shouldn´t this guy be fed the ball inside time after time after time? “Yes but the way our offense is setup, we don´t have many post up plays. It is tougher to feed him with less post up plays. He has rose well and we need to find ways to get him the ball on the pick and roll more. He moves pretty well for his size and we have to get him the ball more in the open floor as well”, commented Quantez Robertson.

               With the Fraport Skyliners having problems this season, captain Quantez Robertson has taken it upon himself to do even more than usual at both ends of the court. As a result he is putting up very impressive stats. He is averaging only 30 minutes which is the least he has produced since the 2015-2016 season, but he is averaging the most points in his career at 17,5ppg, 5,8rpg, 2,5apg and 1,8spg and is shooting a career best 41% from the parking lot. It is obvious he has to be even more motivated than usual in his own play. “I´m always motivated. I try to do as much as possible on the court with the time that I get making plays for myself and others. We need everyone to step up. I´m scoring and shooting pretty well at the moment. Guys are looking for me to make plays”, stressed Quantez Robertson. Despite Tez getting more of a work load on offense, he doesn´t feel like opponents are keying in on him more now than in the past. “Teams are still playing me the same. I think they are closing out on me harder now because I´m shooting better”, expressed Quantez Robertson. With the team losing as much as it is, it is only obvious that his hunger for success on defense is always growing. “I attack the defensive end like crazy. I do what I can to spark the team. If it means making stops, getting rebounds to lead the fast break, steals or blocks. I´m trying to rally the guys and get them pumped. I do what I can like I always have”, warned Quantez Robertson.

                So let me return back to the dream of having Jordan Theodore return to the Fraport Skyliners. He was with a Japanese team, but that didn´t work out and now he is seeking a new challenge. It is no secret that the 2000 BBL cup winner has a point guard problem. In the last few games, Senegal guard Brancou Badio played point guard and didn´t do a bad job. “He came from a team full of history. He shows that he is very quick off the pick and roll and he can get to his spots”, stated Quantez Robertson. But Badio isn´t a long term solution, but a short term. Donovan Donaldson just hasn´t been able to get the job done. He played at a NCAA 2 school putting up good states and has played in lower leagues in Europe before coming to Frankfurt. There was a risk that he might not be able to fulfil expectations at the BBL level. Donaldson´s biggest strength is his drive, but he has been up and down with it with Frankfurt. His hesitation to use it has been a mystery. He was aggressive again in the loss in Bonn, but his aggressiveness was nonexistent in the blowout loss to FC Bayern Munich. “I tried to help him during the Munich game. I told him he has to be more aggressive off the pick and roll and attacking the rim. He does it in practice. I think if he attacks the rim more and gets to the free throw line getting freebies that that will help his confidence”, said Quantez Robertson. It is only a matter of time until the Fraport Skyliners bring in a new point guard. Could it really be Jordan Theodore.  New German national team coach and ex Fraport Skyliner head coach Gordon Herbert is a massive Jordan Theodore fan. If Herbert was still in Frankfurt, it would be a no brainer. “Jordan is an elite player that can create for others and for himself. He is also capable of making defensive plays. He can help any team he plays for”, warned Gordon Herbert. But in the end, it´s all about who has enough money and everything else can only be a dream. “It would be nice to have Jordan back. He is experienced and can create for himself and others. I have talked to Jordan. He is staying in shape and looking for that next good situation. It would be nice to have him back, but it makes no sense, because we don´t have enough money. He is big time now”, warned Quantez Robertson. I guess seeing Jordan Theodore back in the Fraport Skyliners can only happen in a dream.

Stanley Whittaker (183-G-94, college: Keiser) is a 26 year old 183cm point guard from Philadelphia playing his third professional season and first in Germany with PS Karlsruhe. He played his rookie season in Lithuania and last season had his break through with UBSC Raiffeisen Graz (Austria-BSL) playing 24 games: Score-2 (21.5ppg), 6.3rpg, Assists-2 (8.0apg), Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 78.4%. He played his college ball at Frank Phillips (JUCO) and Keiser (NAIA). He teams up every week with Miles Schmidt-Scheuber to talk basketball

Congrats Stanley on another win this time over new club Itzehoe 92-87. Things really are clicking for the club. What steps did the team make during this win?

Thanks Miles, I think as a team we made steps in a positive direction with this win. It’s a challenge to win games on the road, so we take this win, look to learn from our mistakes and continue to move forward and build good habits.

After trailing after 10 minutes, PS Karlsruhe found better to their game and took a 41-38 lead into half-time. What was key for having the lead at the break?

We were relatively solid defensively in the first half, although we knew we still gave up some second chances points we were right there knowing if we finished possessions we can have success on the offensive end.

PS Karlsruhe exploded in the third quarter netting an incredible 36 points leading 77-64. You guys hit a lot of three’s and Ferdinand Zylka was instrumental. Was this the best offensive quarter of the season?


I think as a team we found a nice rhythm in the third quarter. We were able to play with some better pace and hit some shots so that helped us.

You knew how to separate from passing and finishing yourself. You seemed to have no problems reading their defense in this phase.

That’s what it is for me, just reading the defense, understanding schemes and trying to execute offensively.

PS Karlsruhe let up a bit at the end. How key was it for time just elapsing. Do you feel confident you would still have won the game had their been 2 more minutes more to play?

We definitely have to do a better job closing our games, there was a sense we took our foot off the gas pedal some. But credit to Itzehoe, they stayed aggressive and gave us a battle down to the end of the game.

What was your impression of Itzehoe and their coach Pat Elzie? They don’t look like a team that just moved up do they?

I like their team, they have a good coach and they have a style of play that fits the personnel of their roster in my opinion.

What was your impression of American Chris Hooper? He paid his dues 2 years in the Pro B and now is showing he is a top player in the Pro A. He could challenge you for MVP honors.

I respect his journey and his grind. He definitely gets after it. He plays with extreme confidence and shows leadership on the court. I wish him good health throughout the season and we’ll see what happens in the end.

German Leo Behrend finished with 9 points and 4 rebounds. How important is he in general to the success of the team?

Leo is very important to our team, we have the utmost trust in him and his abilities.

You had another super game with 22 points, 9 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 steals and 1 block. Take away the 2 turnovers and would it have been close to perfect?

I don’t think I can ever play a perfect game, it be the little things that doesn’t show in the stat sheet that means the most to me and to the success of our club. I’ll continue to hang my hat around those things and try to continue to be productive the way my teams needs me and expects me to be.

You next face the Tigers Tuebingen. What kind of a game can we await and what will be key for continuing the winning streak?

We have a tough task in front of us, I’m sure we’ll put together a game plan that will give us a chance to win. It starts this week in practice and hopefully we’ll be able to execute once it’s time to play on Saturday.

Halloween is just around the corner. What memories do you have of a kid of Halloween? What were some of your favorite own costumes?

The Halloween kid memories will always be just going out trick or treating with my siblings and friends, being excited about all the candy we gather that evening so that’s the most memorable thing from back when I was a kid. Favorite costume is the Michael Myers costume.

Thanks Stanley for the chat.

It was shortly before the end of another loss this time against the Telekom Baskets Bonn on the road and Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson landed on the foot of Parker Jackson-Cartwright and one could imagine the many groans of fans who were thinking what would happen now if their only true heart and soul of the team would be out for an extended amount of time. The 2016 Fiba Europe Cup winner just didn’t have much fortune as they were stuck with an incredibly long beginning schedule that pitted them up against many of the top BBL teams. It didn’t help the Fraport Skyliners cause that with a 0-4 record they next had to battle overwhelming favorite FC Bayern Munich without Quantez Robertson. The only good news was that Frankfurt was in their own living room and were facing a club that was no where near where they wanted to be and were coming off an embarrassing 71-64 win over Giessen that had them near a loss as they took them into overtime. Sometimes when a club is down and out, they are most dangerous, but against against FC Bayern Munich, Frankfurt was able to keep up for about 15 minutes, but a massive 18-0 run decided the game in the second quarter for FC Bayern Munich 79-50. Germany’s most famous club didn’t play their best game, but they didn’t have to, because the Fraport Skyliners were even worse. At times FC Bayern Munich looked like they were just going through the motions and just playing, but not seriously competing. Munich head coach Andrea Trinchieri surely wasn’t totally happy after the win, but he remained diplomatic to the press. ‘I thought that we were solid and serious today. Of course there is a difference when you have 15 players or only 10 players. Jason George helped us a lot especially with his great defense which rewarded us with open shots. Nihad Djedovic was amazing playing three positions. He showed exactly how you should play’, explained Munich head coach Andrea Trinchieri. Frankfurt had little chance to win this game and couldn’t prepare the way they wanted and knew how having only 8 players in practice during the week. ‘We fought hard despite playing only with 8 players. I thought that we worked well and took a step in the right direction. I thought that we were disciplined, but didn’t play good offense against their switches. We just aren’t ready to play at that level yet.

The Fraport Skyliners rushed out on a rapid start leading 5-2 as Len Schoorman showed his aggressiveness early on scoring on a drive and kept it to the end finishing with 9 points and Brancou Badio nailed a trey. Badio soon connected on another trey but the guests found a groove quickly also and hit a couple of three’s from Djedovic and ex NBA player Darrun Hilliard and also mixed it up getting easy baskets inside from ex Braunschweig forward Gavin Schilling and Serbian Zan Mark Sisko to lead 17-11. But FC Bayern Munich still were finding their identity on defense and allowed some easy baskets. It was the farm club duo of Alex Richardson and Felix Hecker that gave crucial support with baskets and Schoormann also scored again to dead lock the contest at 18-18. But basketball is a game of runs and the Fraport Skyliners lost a little intensity in the last few minutes allowing the Bavarian squad to close out the first quarter with a 7-0 run. American Deshaun Thomas who reached the NCAA Final 4 with Ohio State and was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs scored 5 points and young German Jason George scored on the fast break for the 25-18 advantage. Munich shot over 60% from the field and outside while Frankfurt was at over 40%. Munich had the rebound and turnover advantage.

The Fraport Skyliners got back into the game trailing FC Bayern Munich by only one point, but then as if a tidal wave mysteriously appeared, the guests totally blew away Frankfurt with a brutal 18-0 run to decide the game before the break. Frankfurt stormed out into the second quarter with a forceful 9-2 run to trail Munich only 27-26. FC Bayern Munich was in a phase again where they were playing totally under their expectations and were just under performing which could have really hurt them against a Ulm or Oldenburg, but against Frankfurt could get away with it. The guests had no fluidity on offense and had problems with execution with Frankfurt’s aggressive defense. Frankfurt continued to get vital production from Senegal guard Badio who steered 6 points with free throws and a lay in while Schoorman continued to be active attacked the rim for a lay in. After Vladimir Lucic hit three free throws, it was ex Alba Berlin forward Lorenz Brenneke that gave the club some big energy with a coast to coast run and two handed dunk to trail Munich only 32-28. But a game can change so quickly when a few shots are made and the self-confidence of the team changes 180 degrees as Frankfurt witnessed. FC Bayern Munich shocked Frankfurt with a massive 18-0 run to extend their lead to 50-28. In the run FC Bayern Munich got key support from German national player Andreas Obst who had 8 points including two three’s. The ex Ulm player is without a doubt the best German shooter on earth at the moment. Gavin Schilling also steered 6 points in the run including two back to back dunks on transition where one was really wondering if Frankfurt would bring out the white flag of surrender. Len Schoormann stopped the Munich run with a lay in as the Fraport Skyliners trailed 50-30 at half-time. ‘We had too many turnovers in the run. We had problems rebounding the ball and weren’t taking open shots’, commented Quantez Robertson. FC Bayern Munich continued to have great shooting percentages with 61% from the field and 70% from outside even if it didn’t feel like it while Frankfurt had problems on the boards and had 11 turnovers.

In the third quarter, both teams couldn’t muster much in the first five minutes, but after FC Bayern Munich was able to make their first field goal, things began to click after that allowing them to achieve their highest lead of 29 points in the game. In the first minutes, one had to wonder if these were two easyCredit BBL teams as both had a brick festival as no team could buy a bucket. Both teams couldn’t execute on their first five possessions. FC Bayern Munich did get free throws from Djedovic, Lucic and Shilling, but even then they weren’t perfect going 3/6. Frankfurt finally got their first field goal from Badio while FC Bayern Munich had to wait a little bit longer. Frankfurt had serious problems on offense as they truly had only one real option as Badio took on the role and did his absolute best. He finished with 20 points and continues to show that he can play at the BBL level. He also had to help out at the point guard position which is a weak spot at the moment for the club. ‘I think Brancou made a step today. The BBL is still new for him, but he has a good mentality. He played a little point guard with the Senegal national team and now with us’, stated Fraport Skyliner head coach Diego Ocampo. FC Bayern Munich finally got on the score board at the 3,44 minute mark getting a turn around jumper from Thomas as Frankfurt trailed 55-34. The Frankfurt offense woes continued as they mustered only 6 points in the whole quarter and the guests closed out the third quarter with a 10-2 run to lead 65-36. Obst continued to be an inside outside wrecking crew making a trey and also driving for two points. Ex NBA player Othello Hunter also used his physicality for a bucket inside and Hilliard hit a three pointer. Despite the brick party at the start, FC Bayern Munich was still shooting very well at 55% from the field and 69% from outside while The Frankfurt shooting percentages dipped to 38% from the field and 21% from the parking lot. Munich also continued to control the boards and turnovers easily.

In the fourth quarter nothing changed as the Fraport Skyliners couldn’t make a big dent into the overwhelming Munich lead, but could leave the game with a somewhat positive feeling as they did win the quarter 14-13. Frankfurt began with a trey from Rasheed Moore who didn’t have a good shooting day netting only 4 points and then got two baskets from rookie Matt Haarms who got into foul trouble early. Munich got baskets from Sisko with a runner and Jason George dropped a trey who felt very comfortable in the left corner as Frankfurt trailed 73-45. With 2,13 minutes to play there was an amusing scene on the court as Gavin Schilling went down under the court and got up limping back to the bench. Before he could even get there, head coach Andrea Trinchieri yelled at him to remain on the court. Some coaches just seem to know their players best even if they can’t feel the pain. ‘You could see that his coach knew exactly what he thought of him. He gave him a strong warning to remain on the court’, stressed Quantez Robertson. At the end young German Marvin Ongusipe got some garbage minutes and scored and Jason George hit one more time from the left corner and Badio ended the game with a basket. Even if FC Bayern Munich won with ease, it is still apparent that they aren’t anywhere near their full potential. ‘We have an idea of what we want to be and have shown flashes. Each day is a good day to get better’, warned Andrea Trinchieri. Despite the blow out loss, Diego Ocampo did see some positive things on the court. ‘I thought our pick and roll defense and transition was good. We also played well with the ball and passed better in the second half’, said Diego Ocampo. FC Bayern Munich was led by Andreas Obst and Darrun Hilliard (198-SG-93, college: Villanova, agency: BeoBasket) with 13 points a piece while Gavin Schilling added 11 points and 10 rebounds while the Fraport Skyliners were led by Brancou Badio with 20 points. FC Bayern Munich shot 49% from the field and 58% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 15 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 34% from the field and 21% from outside and had 29 rebounds and 20 turnovers.

After losing their first game to the top Pro B favorite EPG Baskets Koblenz, the Fraport Skyliners Juniors have been perfect since riding a three game winning streak as their defense was red hot in the last two home games allowing an average of only 56 games per game. Squashed between the two massive home wins was an exciting nailbitter 78-77 win on the road against Giessen. Frankfurt wanted to continue their lucky streak and met the Arvato College Wizards Karlsruhe who came into the contest struggling with a 1-3 record. They lost their last three games and were clobbered 102-74 by Orange Academy. For any basketball fan being able to see 40 year old sharp shooter Rouven Roessler for another season is an incredible delight as he has put his name into the German basketball dino’s with guys like Chris Ensminger, Derrick Allen and Rickey Paulding who played for a very long time. Frankfurt had more than two hand full of players that could have been Roessler’s son’s, but the German’s play was still spot on as he poured in 20 points and even had the game winner on his finger tips, but it fell short propelling the Fraport Skyliners Juniors to an insane come from behind 74-72 win over the Arvato College Wizards thanks to a crunch-time 15-0 run. For 35 minutes the Fraport Skyliners Juniors didn’t play their best basketball and played catch up basketball for 25 minutes, but half way through the fourth quarter, Frankfurt went on an amazing run securing the win at the end. One of the hero’s at the end was 8 year man German Konstantin Schubert (200-SF-98) who had a career day netting 23 points and was all smiles after the victory. ‘This was an untypical game for us. We didn’t start off well like in the previous home games. In the fourth quarter Philipp Hadenfeldt gave us energy with big shots. We never stopped fighting and believed that we could win the game. I’m happy to come back off a tough injury and have a night like this I had no idea that I had so many points. My free throws helped tonight’, smiled Neu Isenburg native Konstantin Schubert. The Arvato College Wizards were shocked at the end. Karlsruhe legend Rouven Roessler snuck out of the gym and who could blame him for his team throwing away the game in crunch-time. ‘These type of things happen. That is how the game goes at times. Basketball is a game of runs and they went on one at the end. I have to give credit to Frankfurt. They were down and fought back and played well. We were unable to put together a few baskets at the end, but I’m still proud of how we played’, said Arizona native Richaud Gittens.

In the first quarter no team could get away from the other as there were 7 lead changes. Konstantin Schubert gave Frankfurt the 2-0 lead with a beautiful floater after making his man dizzy with his moves. But the guests quickly showed their inside game which would give Frankfurt head aches all night long going on a 6-2 run. German Vincent Hoffman and Moritz Bar scored baskets. Hoffman had a solid night with 11 points and 7 boards scored twice and Bar executed the pick and roll perfectly with Roessler. Frankfurt fought back getting the 9-7 lead with a trey by ex Gotha center Marco Voeller and a basket from 2017 JBBL finalist Calvin Schaum. Konstantin Schubert was a real work horse keeping Frankfurt strong with offensive rebounds and a few put backs. Karlsruhe got a trey by Gittens who began off the night slowly, but would find his range a lot better as the night continued. Frankfurt did a good job keeping Rouven Roessler from firing and let him be more of a playmaker, but had problems allowing easy baskets inside to the guests. Frankfurt didn’t find their touch from the field shooting only 33%, but were great on the boards with 6 offensive rebounds thanks to Konstantin Schubert who led the charge. ‘The game was pretty even. We knew Roessler wouldn’t penetrate much due to age, but our biggest problem was allowing easy baskets’, stressed Frankfurt NBBL coach Miran Cumurija.

In the second quarter the Arvato College Wizards were able to find a consistent groove on offense and led by as much as 10 points. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors made some dents into the lead, but couldn’t get over the hump trailing by 8 points at the break. The guests didn’t waste any time getting their offense going as they sped out on a 10-2 run to lead 27-17. In the run, it was Roessler finally getting his scoring going netting two baskets while ex Weber State (NCAA) standout Richaud Gittens also scored twice. Frankfurt couldn’t get their offense going as they were irritated by the aggressive defense and rapid hands in passing lanes which led to turnovers. On defense Frankfurt had problems with 1-1 defense and just couldn’t annoy Roessler to take more contested shots. Frankfurt fought back going on a 7-2 run to cut Karlsruhe’s lead to 31-26. Frankfurt did a good job taking advantage of mismatches and just attacking inside and getting easy baskets as ex Trier forward Nils Leonhardt scored as did Marco Voeller. Hadenfeldt who was being guarded well at the three point line finally broke free and drilled home a trey. But just as Frankfurt was pressing, the guests came up with big baskets. Ex Heidelberg Pro A player Christoph Rupp nailed a trey. Consecutive stops by Karlsruhe led to a Gittens lay in and Moritz Bar lay in for the 38-30 Karlsruhe half-time advantage. Frankfurt continued to shoot poorly as their only real highlight was their rebounding work having the 23-17 edge with an excellent 10 offensive rebounds. ‘We were beat too easily on 1-1 defense and our intensity was missing. On offense we had too many easy turnovers. We were missing that second scorer to compensate the loss of Felix Hecker. We also didn’t have enough self-confidence in our shots’, stated Miran Cumurija.

In the third quarter the Arvato College Wizards continued to control the game and were able to lead in double digits and led by as much as 14 points as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors just had no steady rhythm at both ends of the court. The guests came out on fire going on a 9-3 run to extend their lead to 47-33. In the run, they got excellent production from Christoph Rupp who hit a three and scored on transition as Roessler provided the touch down pass. Vincent Hennen continued to dominate inside getting an offensive rebound and put back and German big man Christian Okule also scored in the paint. Frankfurt had fits with the Karlsruhe zone and at times played wild attempting unneeded alley op attempts that faltered. Ex Giessen guard Niklas Bilski stopped the run with a three pointer, but Roessler stepped up getting 5 points and the 52-36 lead. Here and there Frankfurt had some good spurts of play inside as Schubert and Voeller scored, but wouldn’t be rewarded on defense as they couldn’t get back to back stops as the guests always had an answer. Especially their much improved intensity on the offensive glass hurt Frankfurt. But in the last few minutes, Frankfurt picked up their game and got over the hump to trail only 59-51 at the break. Konstantin Schubert and Alvin Onyia got some big baskets. On The Konstantin Schubert basket, his brother Bennet made the perfect pass for the assist. ‘It is a crazy feeling being able to play with my brother. He is getting more minutes. That is good to see for the big brother’, added Konstantin Schubert. Frankfurt closed out the third quarter with a bang netting a transition basket from young German Bennet Schubert scoring at the buzzer as he retrieved a spectacular long bounce pass ala Rajon Rondo from Niklas Bilski. ‘We did a good job executing and scoring at will. We had the confidence to break the game open’, expressed Richaud Givens. ‘We knew that Roessler would make shots. We fought, but still gave up too many easy baskets and offensive rebounds’, expressed Konstantin Schubert.

In the fourth quarter the Arvato College Wizards began on a swift 5-0 run to extend their lead to 64-51. In the run they got production from Okolie and Roessler. Konstantin Schubert kept his team at bay with a running hook shot and free throws while Karlsruhe got a key three from Vincent Hoffman. Roessler followed with a classic step back jumper for the 69-56 lead. At that point there seemed to be little hope that suddenly Frankfurt would break out of their funk and the guests would make a 180 degrees turn in the other direction and mercifully throw the game away, but believe it or not it did happen. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors finally performed their own magic going on a very very brutal 15-0 run to retake the lead at 71-69. In the run, it was ex Wurzburg guard Philipp Hadenfeldt that led the charge with two massive three’s and a left handed lay in. Frankfurt also got a key floater from Konstantin Schubert and a vital trey from Leonhardt for the 71-70 advantage. Okolie gave Karlsruhe the lead back 72-71 with less than a minute to go, but Frankfurt grabbed the lead back one more time as Alex Richardson made a lay in and free throw to secure the win. Richardso has made an incredible development in the last year as he is getting BBL minutes. He used his big body to perfection on this crucial bucket. The Arvato College Wizards tried to win the game as Roessler had a good look, but was off balance missing. ‘I have no idea how we managed this come back. We just kept playing. Their zone helped us and we got stops. Our defense got us this win. I was a bit scared at the end when Roessler shot’, stressed Konstantin Schubert with 23 points. Philipp Hadenfeldt added 16 points and Marco Voeller 10 points while the Arvato College Wizards were led by Rouven Roessler with 20 points. Richaud Gittens added 15 points and Christian Okolie and Vincent Hoffman added 11 points a piece. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 42% from the field and 30% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 18 turnovers while the Arvato College Wizards shot 45% from the field and 31% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 20 turnovers.

Jaren Lewis (198-F-96, college: ACU) is a 24 year old 198cm forward from Orlando, Florida that is playing his third professional season and second in Germany with the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. Last season he played with Benacquista Assicurazioni Latina Basket (Italy-Serie A2) playing 27 games averaging 13.3ppg, 8.2rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 77.0%. He played his rookie season in Germany with the wiha Panthers Schwenningen averaging 13,0ppg, 4,9rpg and 2,1apg and 2,ospg. He scored in double figures in 21 games including a 28 point effort against the Bayer Giants Leverkusen and 26 point games against Artland and picked up Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro A Newcomer of the Year -20, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro A 2nd Team -20 and Eurobasket.com German 2.Bundesliga Pro A All-Defensive Team -20 .. He began his basketball career at Lake Highland Prep and played at Abil.Christian (NCAA) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 123 games. In his freshman year he played 30 games averaging 9.7ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 72.6%. In his second year at Abil.Christian (NCAA) he played 28 games averaging 13.5ppg, 6.5rpg, 2.1apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 71.3%. In his junior season at Abil.Christian (NCAA) he played 31 games averaging 13.4ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 79.1%. In his senior year at Abil.Christian (NCAA) he played 34 games averaging 13.8ppg, 6.1rpg, 2.7apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the tough 81-77 Fiba Europe Cup loss against Tmoki-Minsk.

Thanks Jaren for talking to germanhoops.com. Before we talk about basketball, I have to ask you how you experienced COVID. You were in Germany when it began and then Italy. What were the biggest challenges for you to embrace?

The biggest challenges for me to embrace were just adjusting to the new rules and regulations Covid came with. Life was different for everyone and it was tough to change your everyday lifestyle into something completely different

With everything that you saw off the court during COVID, how do you feel did it make you stronger as a man?

I think Covid made me stronger just by getting through more adversity. It wasn’t easy for anyone but just getting through it and remaining steadfast in what I do and who I am really showed I can get through tough times

A tough 81-77 Fiba Europe Cup loss to Tmoki-Minsk. How much did this one hurt? This was truly a game you should of won.


It hurt a lot. We know we can do better and we must start to do a lot better.

Team stat wise there was no real difference. It literally came down to making the little things down the stretch. Do you feel like this loss had more to do with the team still finding themselves in crunch-time situations?

I feel like we could’ve started the game better. We fought back in the second half but we dug ourselves a hole in the first half

A TJ Shorts is so valuable to the team. In the last 40 seconds he missed a makeable lay up and then turned over the ball. On another night he would have been the hero. How did he take the loss and did he need comforting from his teammates after this loss?

He’s good. We all know we just have to move on to the next one. He knows we believe in him and trust him so we are all just focused on the next game

In crunch-time the very experienced Jason Clark made two big baskets and the winning assist. Do you feel like that big time experience is missing a bit at the guard position in Crailsheim?

No I don’t.

The Hakro Merlins began the season with a win but since lost 3 BBL games. You guys showed early that you can score many points consistently. Has it surprised you just a bit how well the team can function on the offensive end?

It has not surprised me. We know we have a lot of weapons and we know what we are capable of. We buy into our roles on the offensive end and that allows us to be successful.

What kind of defensive identity is Sebastian Gleim preaching for the team to become?

Coach has been preparing us to be a very physical defensive team that is very active and disciplined.

What has it been like being teammates with Maurice Stuckey probably the most experienced player on the team. How important are his leadership and scoring abilities?

It has been great being teammates with Maurice. He has been a great voice to have in the locker room and he is able to really change games with his outside shooting

How valuable is the versatile Terrell Harris? Could you see him becoming possibly the second scoring option on the team?

Terrell is very valuable. He can score from all three levels and he is able to create shots for others as well.

What kind of an experience has it been playing in Crailsheim? What does it feel like being a easyCredit BBL player?

It’s been a cool experience playing here in Crailsheim. It is a first class club and I’m thankful to be playing the game I love. The guys are great so it has been a great group to play with

You have had a super start to the season. You have needed no adjustment to the easyCredit BBL. Has being a versatile player opposed to being one dimensional helped you make the transition faster?

It definitely has helped some. I take pride in being able to do different things on the court to help my team. As I continue to work I hope to help the team even more as the season goes on.

Last season you played with Benacquista Assicurazioni Latina Basket (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 13.3ppg, 8.2rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 77.0%. What kind of an experience was it playing in the evry competitive A-2 league. How do you feel did your game make new strides there?

It was an important experience for me playing in Italy. The game over there was very physical and I was able to play multiple positions and have different responsibilities over there that I really think helped my game.

What kind of an experience was it having the very experienced Obie Trotter as a teammate? You were 10 years old when he was making a name for himself in the BBL in Germany.

Obie was a great teammate. He was a leader and someone I really enjoyed playing with. He could score and play make for others. He was a valuable piece.

The NBA has started. Many have picked the Lakers and the Nets to reach finals. What other teams do you see making a run?

I wouldn’t sleep on the defending champion Bucks.

Did you see he sequel to the classic Coming to America movie? Shouldn’t they just have left it alone?

I didn’t see it yet. I’ve only heard bad things so I don’t know if I’ll ever get to it haha

Thanks Jaren for the chat.

Terrell Harris (191-G-93, college: Georgia Coll., agency: Players Group) is a 28 year old 190cm guard from Indiantown, Florida that finished his fifth professional season and second with the NINERS Chemnitz (Germany-ProA) averaging 11,4ppg, 3,3rpg and 3,9apg. He will play his sixth professional season with the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. In 2019-2020 in the Pro A with the Ninners he averaged 14,1ppg, 2,6rpg and 5,0apg. In 2018-2019 he played with the Rostock Seawolves (Germany-ProA) averaging 13.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 66.3%. Three seasons ago he played with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-Ligaen) playing 24 games averaging 17.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.3%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT: 71.6%. In his rookie season he played with the Iserlohn Kangaroos (Germany-ProB) averaging 18,1ppg, 4,3rpg and 1,8apg. He started his basketball career at Mars Hill (NCAA2) in 2011 and then moved to Georgia College in 2012. As a senior he played 29 games averaging 24.6ppg, 6.7rpg, 4.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 76.8%. He concluded his college basketball career winning the All-PeachBelt Player of the Year 2016. Harris spoke to germanhoops.com after the 81-77 Fiba Europe Cup loss to Tmoki-Minsk.

Thanks Terrell for talking to germanhoops.com. A tough 81-77 Fiba Europe Cup loss to Tmoki-Minsk. How much did this one hurt? This was truly a game you should of won.

Yes very tough loss, we came out flat. We got down 14 the first half but we were able to shake it off and fight back with a 20 point swing around. Those are the games we have to put away. Losing any game is tough but we have a quick turnaround tomorrow against a good Bayreuth team so no time to hold our heads down.

Team stat wise there was no real difference. It literally came down to making the little things down the stretch. Do you feel like this loss had more to do with the team still finding themselves in crunch-time situations?

We broke down at the end defensively and they made some tough baskets and we didn’t. Part of the game. Just have to close better and find a way to win those close ones.

A TJ Shorts is so valuable to the team. In the last 40 seconds he missed a makeable lay up and then turned over the ball. On another night he would have been the hero. How did he take the loss and did he need comforting from his teammates after this loss?

TJ is a great player and he will move on and prep for Bayreuth. He doesn’t dwell on turnovers or missed shots.

In crunch-time the very experienced Jason Clark made two big baskets and the winning assist. Do you feel like that big time experience is missing a bit at the guard position in Crailsheim?

Clark made some tough pull-ups and lay ups late. He’s a good player. I believe we have what it takes right now in the locker room and we just have to lock in more defensively. We lost some tight games that could’ve easily been wins.

The Hakro Merlins began the season with a win but since lost 3 BBL games. You guys showed early that you can score many points consistently. Has it surprised you just a bit how well the team can function on the offensive end?

We play fast pace with some great shooters, so the points will come that’s no surprise.

The team showed right away that it gives up many points. What has been the biggest problem on the defensive end so far?

We have to lock in defensively including myself. We have the ability to defend at a high level. We just need 40 minutes of focusing on defense.

What kind of defensive identity is Sebastian Gleim preaching for the team to become?

Working as a unit through communication and everyone doing their part so we can look better and play better as a whole.

What has it been like being teammates with Maurice Stuckey probably the most experienced player on the team. How important are his leadership and scoring abilities?

Mo is a good person in general let alone basketball player. He works hard everyday and leads with his actions by shooting and defensively.

What kind of an experience has it been playing in Crailsheim in comparison to Chemnitz? I mean I think it’s very difficult to find more passionate fans than the Niners.

Two different systems. New situation for me this year after spending two years in Chemnitz. Miners fans are passionate but so are the Merlins fans. It’s get pretty loud in our arena.

Sebastian Gleim is a big fan of yours. Have you become a big fan of him? He wants to make the next step as a coach in the BBL?

Sebastian is a very passionate coach and cares for the players. You don’t always get those type of coaches. I’m sure he will prove himself as his career keeps developing.

You have had a solid start to the season. What kind of a role do you have this season in comparison to last?

In my eyes I haven’t been performing to my abilities so far this season. Roles are somewhat similar but a little more time at the point guard in games than I did in Chemnitz.

Last season you became more of a facilitator, but also showed that you can score. What is your personal goal as a player to continue to develop more this season?

Just staying aggressive offensively and defensively. I’m at my best when I’m aggressive and active.

I feel like there was more scoring depth with Chemnitz than with Crailsheim. Do you feel like you could become more of a scorer in your second BBL season?

Just trying to take what the defense gives me. The points will always come when you play the right way.

Before you reached the easyCredit BBL, you averaged 40% or better only once in Denmark. But since reaching the BBL your shooting at a higher clip. Has the IQ of your teammates and picking the right spots helped you become a better outside shooter?

Repetitions from the summer and staying locked in techniques helped me become a better 3pt shooter. Still have ways to go though.

You already played the EWE Baskets once this season, but that was before the legend Rickey Paulding announced that this would be his last season. When do you remember hearing his name the first time when you were with Iserlohn in the Pro B?

I can’t remember when I first heard of him to be honest. But he’s the blueprint of Americans having a successful overseas career at a high level for a long time. Blessings to him and his family.

The NBA has started. Many have picked the Lakers and the Nets to reach finals. What other teams do you see making a run?

I pick the Warriors or Nets but Bucks might be back to the finals as well. Going to be a good year

Did you see he sequel to the classic Coming to America movie? Shouldn’t they just have left it alone?

Yes the movie was still good, I got the concept. I like that they allowed a lot of young and upcoming actors and comedians to have a role in the movie.

Thanks Terrell for the chat.

Some guys hang it up in the early 30’s and by age 38 are already totally situated in a new life after basketball while others may actually stay in basketball. Then again there are other guys that just can’t stop playing the game they love like a Derrick Allen or Chris Ensminger that played into their late 30’s and were still able to leave a lasting impression in the easyCredit BBL even when their muscles might have been aching a bit more than usual and other priorities like kids were gnawing at their responsibilities on the court. Another one of those rare players that played into his late 30’s was Virgil Matthews (191-PG-83, college: Montana). Except for his summer flings at home in leagues like the IBL where he played at home with the Olympia Reign for five summers from 2010-2014, he played his whole illustrious 14 year career in Germany with teams like KICKZ Muenchen Basket (Germany-2.Bundesliga), Schwelmer Baskets (Regionalliga), Ehingen (Pro A), Nuernberg (Pro A) and the Niners Chemnitz. In Chemnitz he found a second home playing six seasons. He is also one of those scarce players that had to pay his dues for many years first toiling in leagues like the Regionalliga and Pro B before making the next jump into the second Bundesliga Pro A where he belonged to the top point guards every season. But his steep ascent up the basketball ladder didn’t end there as he did reach the top of the mountain the first league easyCredit BBL at age 37 in 2020 helping Chemnitz remain in the BBL in his last season. Like many guys before him, he has decided to give his love to the game as well as to the Niners and is an assistant coach under Rodrigo Pastore. I remember joking with him the last three to four years about when he would retire, but he always was prepared to fire a reply back and always returned to playing. But in the summer of 2021, he knew it was time and it was a decision where he had no sleepless nights. ‘It wasn’t difficult at all, it was time. I played long enough and my body was definitely ready. It wasn’t the wear and tear of the BBL. It was just the wear and tear of practicing every day and all the years before adding up’, stressed Virgil Matthews. If someone had told him in the spring of 2006 when he was finishing at Montana (NCAA) that he would still be a professional player in 2021, he would of probably declared that person insane. Instead he was able to endure an illustrious professional career that brought him titles and just supreme joy of playing the game. Virgil Matthews was a real dinosaur that gave consistency a new meaning.

The American who was born in Spanaway, Washington on July 17, 1983 began his basketball career at Federal way high school. He then had to go a route that many Americans overseas have to take early on with balling in JUCO. This is a place where players really learn toughness simply because absolutely every player has something to prove and will go through a brick wall to beat you. He played at Centralia College and left a lasting impression and was rewarded with the NCAA ticket to the University Of Montana. He had a tough junior season averaging 3,5ppg, 2,0rpg and 1,8apg, but helped his team win the Big Sky Conference tournament. Everything came together in his senior year as he played 31 games averaging 10,1ppg, 4,6rpg, 4,0apg and 1,7spg while shooting a potent 49% from the field and 48% from down town. He once again helped his team win the Big Sky Conference for a second year in a row and was named MVP. Success and the kind of stats he had could have easily given him a BBL contract, but instead he had to begin in the second Bundesliga with KICKZ Muenchen Basket (Germany-2.Bundesliga). He showed quickly that he had no problems adjusting to the style overseas as he played 29 games averaging 18.0ppg, 6.1rpg, 5.2apg, 2.6spg, 2FGP: 57.3%, 3FGP: 31.8%, FT: 66.5%. Often after a stellar season like that a player will make the next step up, but for him he took a few steps backwards. He would hang around in semi-pro leagues in the States and played in the Regionalliga. It would take him three years before his career would get going again. ‘After my season in Munich my agent quit the game late in the summer while I was waiting for a job. I had some issues with the coach. I was a rookie it was just not the best ending to my season. I ended up getting surgery on my knee that fall which made it hard to play that next season. So then I just had to redeem myself working my way back up. Luckily Ralph Junge (Ehingen) found me 2 years later and he still remembered me from that Munich season’, stated Virgil Matthews. In 2008-2009 he was back in Germany, but took a step back playing in the Regionalliga with the Schwelmer Baskets. He was very fortunate then to paly for up and coming German head coach Raphael Wilder. ‘I really like how he kept things simple, he also encouraged us players to go and experience the culture and kind of experience more than basketball and enjoy the experience of being a professional player in Europe. It’s a special thing that not everyone gets to see’, remembered Virgil Matthews.

For some guys experiencing the early growing pains could have been enough to head back home and call it quits and get a normal 9-5 job. But Matthews who lists American Devin Uskowski as his toughest opponent in the Pro B decided to keep grinding in the lab and wait for the next opportunity. Waiting and sticking it out was the right decision as his next opportunity came with German Pro B team Ehingen and one can say that after that the rest is history. Right in his first season he helped Ehingen win the Pro B title and move up to the Pro A. In 2011 was the start of his 9 year Pro A career. In Ehingen he built that consistency that would carry over to the next chapter in his career with the Niners Chemnitz that began in 2014. One has to seriously wonder where his career would have gone had Ralph Junge not grabbed him in 2010 and brought him to Ehingen. ‘Ralph was a vital role in my development and he brought me in and gave me a chance after being a year out of playing. He also taught me so much about the German way and the systems. At the time he was the best youth program in Germany and he was ahead of his time as far as the youth movements that are happening today by the big clubs such as Berlin and Bayern. I learned a lot from him, I’m will always be grateful for that’, warned Virgil Matthews. In Ehingen he had that special role of being a mentor for all the young talent that played there in his four years. Being able to give his experience further was also very important in his development as being that hard nosed leader was later vital for the success in Chemnitz. He was fortunate not to play with a few great young talents, but numerous. ‘I mean there were so many. I’m just glad to have seen them all grow up and play on high levels and be successful individuals. Kevin Bright, Malik Mueller, Kenneth Ogbe, and Sid Marlon-Theis are the one that come to mind right away.

In 2014 the guard who lists Ajay Calvin Terrell Harris Chris Carter Ivan Elliot Dan Oppland as his best teammates of all-time began his most successful and productive time as he would play for the Niners Chemnitz for six seasons with the exception with a Pro A season in Nuernberg. He was instrumental with Rodrigo Pastore in the club reaching the playoffs every season except for his first season and winning the 2019 and 2020 regular season and Pro A in 2020. Even if he is retired, his stay in Chemnitz continues and he will always remember one of the finer parts to why his job had so much enjoyment there. ‘The fans here are great. Coming from Ehingen Chemnitz was a big city so that was also nice. I think one thing about the organization is that I was here to kind of grow with it. It’s cool when you can see the changes and the things you may have had influence in, or to see the youth players grow up. It’s a special kind of thing to have these opportunities’, said Virgil Matthews. He scored averaging in double figures in three of five Pro A seasons and was top three in assists in the league three times. One season he averaged 7,6apg and two other seasons 6,1apg. He finally reached the easyCredit BBL in 2020. In what would be his final season he played 28 games averaging 2,5ppg, 1,8rpg and 2,9apg. It was no secret that there was a big change and difference in skill level from the Pro A to BBL. He won’t forget what the biggest adjustment was. ‘Just the speed. The teams and players at the BBL level are so smart that they don’t need much time to recover from mistakes. At the Pro A level you can expose players a lot easier. In the BBL every player can play’, stated Virgil Matthews. I remember telling him time in and time out again the last years that he deserved to have reached the BBL years ago. Not reaching the BBL earlier never seemed to bother him. ‘It wasn’t meant to be things happen the way they are supposed to sometimes. I’ve had so many good teammates and seen so many players develop and move on it is nice to have a little continuity. I played in college I’ve played against high level guys very often, so I never doubted my abilities even if I never got a chance’, stressed Virgil Matthews. It isn’t strange that he has a lot of love for his ex teammate Chris Carter. He is another one of those players that should have a permanent pass for the easyCredit BBL, but currently is balling in the Pro A with Rostock. ‘Chris still has time and he will get another opportunity. He’s a great leader and a hard worker. Fondest memory of him as a player was the double pump 3 pointer to win the Hagen game 2 years ago. He’s one of my good friends and I’m sure we’ll continue to also make crazy off the court memories too’, added Virgil Matthews.

The Washington native who lists ex NBA player Troy Caupain as his most difficult opponent last season and Aubrey Reese as his toughest foe in the Pro A who gave him the easiest 25 points that he has ever seen now commences on a new challenge in his life as an assistant coach for Rodrigo Pastore. It was a no brainer for him to remain in Chemnitz and work and learn from such a talented and knowledgeable coach like Pastore. It will be interesting to see how he develops as a coach in the next years. There are a few aspects to coaching that is most appealing to him. ‘ I love the thinking. I’m really into the X’s and O’s part of basketball and the relationships you develop while you work this job’, expressed Virgil Matthews. His most important duties is being at practices, doing video work and helping giving input to players during the transfer period. It will be interesting to see how this year’s Chemnitz teams does on the court. One player who should profit very much under Matthews is point guard Nelson Weidemann. His development has been solid, but not fast. He continues to have gained experience in Munich, Bamberg and Goettingen and this season should easily make another step up with the Niners. ‘Nelson is really talented, I remember when I saw him play against the NBBL team while I was there, he had a really good game. I think he will have a good chance to make that next step with us, I will do my best to help him in whatever ways I can’, warned Virgil Matthews.

Even if the ex Ehingen guard who last saw the movie A Quiet Place 2 has his most focus on the court and trying to help the players best, I’m sure every now and then, he might think back to his career and try to aid players with what he learned. He played more than 400 professional games and there are many games that he can still picture in his mind today. ‘ I remember making a 3 and having a great game against Karlsruhe in Pro A, but I mainly remember it because it was the night the Seahawks won the Super Bowl. Our last game before Covid was also one that stands out double overtime and DJ’s three to send it to overtime one of the craziest games I’ve been a part of Lastly, beating Munich was great, I played awful but it was a great moment for the club’, remembered Virgil Matthews. I will always remember Virgil Matthews as being a floor general who played for ages and gave the word consistency a new meaning. It also refreshing to know that he has his memories over our working relationship and seemingly unending interviews. ‘I will remember your work as someone who tried to get people to know players better and always had interest in the game and helped keep German basketball in the light’, stressed Virgil Matthews. Last but not least, the hardcore Niners fans won’t forget Virgil Matthews either. He hopes fans will remember him like this. ‘Just as a smart player who had fun and enjoyed what he was doing and enjoyed the experience’, said Virgil Matthews. His smartness and playmaking led the Niners club too a lot of success. That success should carry on as he now continues to let his legacy grow as a coach at the professional level.