Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheineStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.

Congrats on the big 93-72 win over Ludwigsburg. Another game another win. How big was this win? Is every new win to keep the winning streak going bigger than the other no matter the circumstances?

It was a great win for us had. Our big Bjorn was out and we had some guys step up and played well in some big minutes. I don’t think we really focus on the streak just approaching every game with the mindset to do our job and win.

The RheinStars had a potent first quarter allowing 11 points, but allowed 26 in the second quarter. Did the opponent make any special adjustments or what did you as a team get away from?

We just allowed some easy drives to the basket and the help defense wasn’t there like it was in the first quarter.

Cologne stepped up the defense again in the third quarter, but really stepped up the offense in the fourth quarter with 32 points. Did Stephan Baeck have any special strategy for the fourth quarter?

There were guys that had good offensive night that help a lot . We have to do better on the boards but just guys stepping up was biggest thing.

Ludwigsburg German Julis Baumer had 23 points. The guy plays with so much energy. How much potential does he have?

He’s has a lot of potential and he was very aggressive and played smart . When he saw a mismatch, he took advantage. A very good player.

6 guys scored in double figures including Tim Lang. Talk a little about what you appreciate most about his game?

Tim had a very good game and shot the ball well. I love his floaters I feel everyone is going in .

You added 12 points and had 5 rebounds and 2 assists. You were consistent on a night where every one was clicking. What was your biggest focus with your game on this night’?

We had guys out and I felt this was a game to get good shots. This could’ve been a game where I shot the ball wild but just taking good shots and being good on defense was the main focus.

You next play against Wurzburg who after suffering a 6 game losing streak to begin the season have a 4 game winning streak. What will be key to winning?
The key to winning will be defense . Being aggressive on that end is the main focus. Also we have to be better at rebounding as a team.

Thanks Malik for the chat.