The brutal battle for the Pro B playoffs continued with only 5 games to play. It hasn´t been a great season for the Dragons Rhondorf as they are far away from the form that they had last season as Pro B champion and came to Frankfurt sitting in 7th place with a 10-11 record and having lost 2 of their last 3 games. The Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors were in 11th place also with a 10-11 record, but that didn´t mean much as the standings were as tight as could be with only 1 win difference between positions 5-10. Frankfurt came off a blow out loss in Erfurt where they only had 8 players available. Every game now was like a do or die game for both teams. On a cool mid March night, the Dragons Rhondorf stepped on the court seeking revenge after the tough 93-86 overtime loss at home which they should have won in regular time where German big man Malik Kordel punished them with a 16/21 monster game-. Not only did they seek revenge, but won for the first time ever in Frankfurt tearing apart the Skyliners Juniors 94-72. After an Ok start, the Dragons Rhondorf stepped up their game in the second quarter playing consistent basketball at both ends and continuing to make strides on the defensive end limiting big man Malik Kordel to only 9 points and 11 boards in the game. “The word of the day was consistency and team. Everybody contributed from 1-11 and it was a total team effort. A big emphasis was rebounding coming into the game and we did a good job with that and we controlled Kordel better who killed us the first time around. We were flying around on defense and it´s one thing to do that, but you also need to get the rebounds and we did that”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf guard Kelvin Omojola. The Frankfurt Skyliners had to play pick up basketball from the second quarter on and just weren´t on the same page at both ends. “We weren´t prepared enough and didn´t do our jobs. We were too soft and played too much 1-1 instead of team play. We did play our game of passing and kicking and making good decisions. You won´t win with 7 assists”, warned Frankfurt Skyliner Junior Jamie Edoka.
Felix Hecker at the FT line
In the first quarter the first five minutes was a close affair as both teams were missing shots, but in the last part of the first quarter, Frankfurt executed better and got stops to secure the 19-14 advantage. Frankfurt got the rapid 6-2 advantage as 17 year old German talent Jamie Edoka made 2 easy baskets with his big strength the drive and ex Hanau guard Felix Hecker hit a 20 footer. Rhondorf also went with the penetration as ex RheinStars guard Kenan Reinhart made a lay in and 2024 U-18 German European Championships guard Janne Lasse Mueller (193-PG-2006) also made 2 lay in´s. Frankfurt then went on a mini 5-0 run as Finish guard Chuko Chukwuma connected on a trey and young German Marvin Esser made a lay in for the 11-6 advantage. The Dragons Rhondorf remained tough going on their own 4-0 run as Lithuanian center Danas Kazakevicius made 2 lay in´s as Frankfurt led only 11-10. Frankfurt didn´t relinquish the lead yet going on a 8-4 run to lead 19-14 after 10 minutes. With sniper Bruno Albrecht still out, Felix Hecker had to take some responsibility and stayed aggressive adding 6 points while nailing 4 free throws and Dusan Nikolic made a lay in. Frankfurt shot 37% from the field and 14% from outside and had 14 rebounds and 2 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 37% from the field and 0% from outside and had 10 rebounds and 1 turnover. “They got easy baskets in the first quarter. We were still searching for our rhythm at both ends. We missed easy shots”, stressed Kelvin Omojola
Janne Muller from outside
In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf struck back and got the lead and would never lose it again mid way through the quarter. Rhondorf began strong going on a 7-1 run to lead 21-20. In the run, the Dragons received 4 points from Marko Rosic all on free throws as his energy really sparked the Dragons. The Dragons also got a 25 footer from Reinhart and offensive rebound and put back from Ohio native Tim Smith Jr. Nikolic continued to be aggressive as his speed allowed him to get another easy bucket as Frankfurt led 22-21. However Rhondorf continued to heighten up their game step by step and now exploded for a 15-6 run to extend their lead to 36-28. In the run the Dragons got great production from ex BBL player Marco Rahn who supplied 7 points showcasing his fine inside out game while Muller made another lay in and ex Skyliner Junior Alexander Lagerman and Omojola made lay in´s. Rhondorf´s great team play was shining through as was their pick and roll defense. Frankfurt did a good job not losing control of the game, but finishing strong closing out the first half with a 8-4 run as Frankfurt trailed 40-36 at the break. In the run Frankfurt received potent support from their young NBBL guys as Ivan Crnjac dropped a trey, Namori Omog added a lay in and off balance shot and Jamie Edoka made a free throw. “Marko Rosic came in and set the tone and we followed his lead. He is a great player. Anything he does on the court doesn´t surprise me. Our game plan was to focus on Kordel, but really we focused on all”, stated Kelvin Omojola. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 415 from the field and 20% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 5 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors shot 40% from the field and 18% from the three point line and had 23 rebounds and 7 turnovers.
Marco Rahn at the FT line
In the third quarter the Dragons were able to up their lead a bit more and lead with 12 points after 30 minutes. They continued to execute well on offense and stay consistent on the defensive end not allowing Frankfurt to get over the hump. Both teams were punching back and forth in the first minutes as both clubs were scoring with ease. Rookie Tims Sith Jr who compares his game to Boston Celtic Jayson Tatum was efficient scoring 3 buckets and kept Frankfurt at bay. Frankfurt played more 1-1, but that suited rapid guards Jamie Edoka and Namori Omog as both scored, but Rhondorf still led 47-41. Both teams got good support from many sides as Muller hit a trey and Lagerman made a tip in while Ivan Crnjac made a tip in, but the Dragons led 51-45. The Dragons Rhondorf defended well throwing a zone at Frankfurt here and there and made it as tough as possible for the Frankfurt drivers. However Frankfurt continued to execute well staying with the Dragons as ex Kronberg guard Felix Hecker dropped a trey and Malik Kordel made a offensive rebound and put back and free throws as Frankfurt trailed only 53-51. But the Dragons Rhondorf then set the foundation for the win closing out the third quarter with a 12-2 run to lead 65-53 and Frankfurt would never get close again. In the run, the Dragons Rhondorf really stepped up their defense getting a block by Smith Jr and super on ball pressure by Omojola that led to a turnover. On offense the Dragons got a lay in by Marko Rosic in traffic and then free throws by Danas Kazakevicius. Omojola then added back to back baskets as did Kazakevicius. “Our big problem the whole season has been rebounding. I think that we found our pace in the game allowing only 1 shot. We also got easy baskets”, expressed Kelvin Omojola. “We didn´t do our jobs. They didn´t really do anything special on defense. At the end of the day when we are playing the way we should, we beat them”, stressed Jamie Edoka. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 48% from the field and 17% from the parking lot and had 31 rebounds and 7 turnovers and the Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors shot 38% from the field and 14% from the parking lot and had 30 rebounds and 10 turnovers.
Ivan Crnjac from outside
In the fourth quarter the Dragons Rhondorf saved their best for last scoring 29 points and not having any let ups on the defensive end and closed out the game in style. The Dragons got a trey from Kenan Reinhart and lay in by Smith Jr while Frankfurt got Edoka free throws and a lay in by Malik Kordel, but Rhondorf still led 71-58. After Edoka and Smith traded buckets, the Dragons Rhondorf ultimately shut the door on Frankfurt with a 12-4 run to extend their lead to 85-64. In the run, the Dragons Rhondorf remained cool as if they were in their own living room and just continued to execute their offense as they were led by Tim Smith Jr with 7 points. He displayed his 3 level scoring once again while Omojola nailed a trey and Muller made free throws. Omojola finished with 8 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists after coming off a tough game at home against Leitershorfen where he had big problems taking care of the ball. He only had 1 turnover in this game. “I just try to give my all in each game. I feel like I stepped up my defense and was an impact”, added Kelvin Omojola. Down the stretch, there was no let up by the Dragons as they got added production from Janne Lasse Mueller with a trey and runner while Lagerman and Rahn made lay in´s while Frankfurt got 5 more points from Nikolic and a trey by Omog. “We played with pace and energy in the last quarter and everything went in. We moved the ball well, made lay in´s and made three´s. Our communication was our biggest strength on defense and we all moved like on strings”, warned Kelvin Omojola. “We weren´t awake on defense. We were to slow and not on the same page”, warned Jamie Edoka. The Dragons Rhondorf were led by Janne Lasse Mueller with 19 points. Tim Smith Jr added 17 points and Danas Kazakevicius had 13 points while the Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors were led by Dusan Nikolic with 17 points and Jamie Edoka added 14 points. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 52% from the field and 33% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 9 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors shot 39% from the field and 19% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 13 turnovers.
Jordan Notch (203-F-1997, college: ASU) is a 27 year old 203cm forward from Minnesota playing his second professional season with the BBC Twisters Rendsburg (Germany-Regionalliga). Last season as a rookie he played with Vellaznimi Gjakove (Kosovo-Superliga) and Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D1). He began his basketball career at Waconia high school and then played 2 seasons at Southwestern Illinois College (JUCO) averaging 4.1ppg, 2.5rpg and 10.4ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 64.0%, FT: 76.7%. He then played 2 seasons with Lincoln University (NCAA2) averaging 5.0ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 52.9% and 3.5ppg, 2.3rpg. He then played at Adams State University (NCAA2) averaging 13.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 66.0%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 85.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Jordan for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?
No problem, I appreciate you reaching out. I’m in Rendsburg, Germany where I have made some great relationships, not only with my team, but with many people in the community by being here for 8 months now and the coaching I do with the kids. As far as basketball life, it’s good and I’m grateful where I’m at. It’s a blessing to be back playing the game I love after taking time away from the game for a while. I’m really looking forward to this last game in Berlin and finishing my first full season back on the court, then returning home to attack the offseason to get better and prepare for my next opportunity.
You’re playing your second professional season and first in Germany with BBC Twisters Rendsburg (Germany-Regionalliga). Last season you played in Kosovo and Malta and now in the fourth division in Germany. Why did you go from first division teams to 4th division in Germany?
The drop in level came from injury and taking time off. I had to leave Kosovo Super-league due to injury. Then I had to leave Malta after my in-season transfer to get surgery on my Kosovo injury. It was really hard making that decision as I probably could have played a little over 2 months more there. I was playing really good too while being injured, but I had to make the best call for both my health and basketball career. With this move, I decided to take time off and really get healthy and focus on my life at home too. Taking time off meant I would have to sacrifice level and pay to get back in the market when I was ready. No matter how good you are, it’s tough to get a job in this market after taking time off. As far as coming to 4th division and Germany, I wanted to come here for many reasons. Yes it’s 4th division, I know I can play higher level so it gets frustrating sometimes but it’s part of the comeback process in this market. The most important factor was going somewhere back in a good country with high level basketball close to where I’m playing, and I wanted to return to the European market on a team where I will get on the court a lot to show I’m back. I have had my eye on the top league here in Germany for a while now as I have multiple friends from back home playing in the BBL. I also have a lot of family history in Germany with some family living in Stuttgart currently, so Germany was the most mentioned country in my home growing up. It was a lot of reasons that led to Germany feeling like the perfect fit when I got the call.
How was the off season signing time? Do you represent yourself or did you have assistance from an agent? The off season signing time was great. I am represented by Vedran Pavlicevic with Starting 5 sports. I have been with him since my first job in Kosovo and he has been great supporting me through my injury and time off. Rendsburg was the first offer to come in shortly after I told Vedran I was ready to go, and I signed shortly after talking to Coach.
Rendsburg haven´t had a great season. The team lost many close games and lack experience. What other factors have led to the losing season so far?
Based on my own expectations and goals, I would agree with you that we haven’t had a great season and could have done much better. As far as the factors that have led to our losses, there is a lot we could get into. But based on the season before me, and all of our local player’s goals they made in pre season, it’s been a good season with a step in the right direction to where this club wants to be, so I’m happy to have played a role in it. We now have 1 game left and sitting 1 win away from doubling the win total from last season while having less games on the schedule. We are currently 7th in the league which is also higher than our team’s goal after the 5-18 record last season. With all this in mind and knowing many of our losses were close games like you said, this club took a couple steps forward this season. You can technically call it a losing season due to our record. But I would not call it a “losing” season for me or our club after both my previous year away from the game, and this teams previous season.
You’re having a great personal season. Has Max Rockman given you the keys to the team? Thank you but I think personally I could/can do much better. I would not say he has given me the Keys, but I have been given a big role on the team that still has potential to still impact the game each time out so I’m grateful for that.
How have you and Max Rockmann gelled this season? He played 34 NCAA games and has easyCredit BBL experience. One can say he has seen it all. Yes, his experience is definitely a big part of why I came here. I want to move up to higher levels and there’s no one better to talk to and learn from than someone who played there not long ago to get a feel for what that level will be like. I try to soak in as much as possible from him from things he tells me, someone else, or just studying his reactions to the game so I know how higher level players think the game.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I would say my game has a mix of Kevin Durant, KG, and Kevin Love. I also would say I have picked up small things from other players. Pick and pop from Porzingis, post game / hook shot from Pau Gasol. I would say I get basketball mentality from Kobe / MJ. I learn outlet passing from K Love and Jokic, as well as Jokic ability to run the offense from the top of the key, and see passes others don’t to get his team open shots. I get guys open shots very easily in many different ways. I´m very good at playing 2 man games like Jokic and reading defenses and reacting. I studied footwork in the post and how to seal guys from Al Jefferson and Nikola Pekovic when they played from my Timberwolves. I love studying players that are similar in height and match up nightmares that can do everything as thats what I feel my game is like. They back guys down, face up and attack, or shoot. At the end of the day I pride myself in playing the game the right way and making the right play, and the high percentage play. It’s really hard to say one player, because I learn many things from different types of players. I’m a very well rounded player that can do everything on the court and I can fit into teams in many different ways. This is why I believe my position changes so much depending on what team I am on, and what they need most.
Is it fair to say that you’re a modern day big man. It seems like this season you are showing it to the fullest extent.
The modern day big man label could be used for me this season because I have been playing mostly the 5 position. My role has been to play big and do the dirty work while I mix in things the “modern day” bigs are known for like shooting, passing, mobility, etc. In general, I would not call myself a modern day big though because I don’t see myself as a “big”. I have played with many guys bigger than me where I am the 4 or 3 which I believe is my true position at the highest level. I also have played the 5 position a bit, or big man role through my career due to being one of the tallest on my team, like this season. Even though I am very good at some things at the 5 position, I feel like at times falling into the 5 position can limit me offensively from using many of my offensive strengths, unless the offense is centered around the 5 like Jokic and the Nuggets where I can show my passing ability when I’m not scoring. Being a 5 in a lot of offenses leads to me setting multiple screens before touching the ball, or not touching the ball at all many possessions. Playing with a true big man opens up my game a lot and allows me to ball handle more while also being in more actions where screens are set for me to read and score off instead of always being the one setting them. I am really good at coming off a down screen or cross screen. I’m also great at reading the floor and setting screens whether it’s down screen, flare screen, or others. So it’s best when I can mix them in and do both. At the end of the day, I’m just a 6ft8 (203cm) basketball player. I fell into the “big” position this year due to my height and their need for a physical presence in the post, screens, and rebounding. But I really see myself as a position less player that is very highly skilled offensively, high IQ, and can do anything on the floor, which is why I think my position changes so much through my career based on what a team/coach needs.
You never averaged as many rebounds in a season like this season at 13,2rpg. What is your secret to rebounding?
I’m hungry. I think that’s the number 1 thing that I would give credit to averaging so many rebounds. After sitting out over a year and taking time away from the game for the first time in my life, I really am grateful to be back, and hungry to make a big impact any way I can. I say rebounding is about 80% hunger, effort, and heart because without these, you just won’t average a lot of rebounds. I also take pride in having a high motor, which helps a lot in rebounding. You got to love physicality, especially when you are a lighter weight “big” like me going against heavier bodies and taller bigs. Sometimes footwork won’t get the job done, and you need to know how to stand your ground and know how to use leverage. When that ball goes up you got to think it’s yours when it’s leaving their hand. You need that hunger that has you naturally chasing the ball. Sometimes the player who gets the rebound, only gets it because they worked harder. But also I would say it’s about 20% skill involved. Even though hunger and effort are huge, there is a lot of skill and technique to rebounding. My father was a true big in his time playing, and he taught me the art of boxing out, different footwork and tricks to get in position. There are also important things like having quick reaction timing to the ball off the rim, and studying how to read the ball like how the ball will come off the rim while it’s in the air and from where it’s shot from. You can read if a ball is short or long from reading someone’s jump shot sometimes. Having a good second jump, and learning to tip rebounds to yourself when battling against multiple guys are both valuable to rebounding as well. There is a lot to rebounding. Rebounding is very important, and most don’t realize it until they lose a game because of a missed rebound or 2. Extra possessions on offense and holding people to 1 shot can mean a lot to how a game goes.
Would you classify yourself still as a raw defender? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? You could say I’m a raw defender, as I’m always trying to learn more. But I would also say I’m a very experienced defender as I have played with and against many great players as well as for some great coaches. Right now I feel like I’m a good defender but there is always so much to get better at. I want to become a player that can guard 1 through 5 at the highest level. I’m always working on getting stronger and more athletic so I can guard bigs, as well as working on my foot speed and side-to-side movement so I can guard quick, skilled point guards. On top of the training, I´ always scouting and studying tricks to make good defensive plays and stop good offensive moves.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to raise your game to the next level?
This is a tough question, because I’m always working on different things or studying the game to make me a better player. I’m my own biggest critic. Like I said before, I have a MJ / Kobe mentality. Some would say I drive myself crazy sometimes thinking about ways to get better or critiquing my game. The things I work on most during this last month or 2 are things I don’t do much on the court this season in the big man role so I’m prepared to be that 1-5, position less player when I move up to a higher level next season. In my individual time I make sure to work on ball handling, dribbling/scoring iso moves from the wing, shooting 3’s, coming off down-screens, fade screens, cross screens, as well as doing defensive slides and other things that will help me guarding high level guards or bigs. I also watch film a lot on both myself and others as it is huge for growth and learning to the game. I’m also very excited to get home for the summer so I can go against the NBA, euroleague, and other high level pros that I know around my area. This is always great for sharpening your game up before the next season.
You played your rookie season with Vellaznimi Gjakove (Kosovo-Superliga) and Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D1). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
Kosovo had a couple wake up calls. I wasn’t aware that you shouldn’t drink the tap water in Kosovo especially when you have never left the U.S., so me and another teammate got very sick from a stomach virus. It was terrible. It was the most sick either of us have ever been. They were wheeling IV’s into our apartment to heal us. Also when so many people were smoking cigarettes inside the gym that it was hard to see during the game and the air tasted like cigarettes during the game. That was definitely a moment where I knew I was far from home. Going to Kosovo for my first stop overseas was quite an experience in many ways. As far as the basketball side of wake up calls, I had 3 vet imports in Kosovo I’m real grateful for, and they really taught me a lot about the pro basketball world. 1 big came from G League and another plays in the G league now. The veteran guard was very experienced as well. They really taught me a lot, and helped me more than they know during my short time in Kosovo.
You won your first pro title as a rookie in Malta. What was so special about that team? Our team won it that year, but I left about 2 months before playoffs to get surgery on the ankle that I hurt in Kosovo. I probably could have gone home after my release to get it fixed, but I was already in Europe and had been in contact with my Malta coach before accepting Kosovo. He knew about my injury and I felt like I could play on it after taking a few weeks off. I don’t regret going to Malta as it was a great experience. We had a great team, almost undefeated in my time there. It really hurt to leave and I felt terrible about it for a while, but I had to make the best decision for my health and career. I was playing really good for being injured too and we were winning, but I was pushing an ankle that was messed up. After almost 3 months playing there, I knew it was more than just a bad ankle sprain and I’m grateful I made that hard decision to return home to get it fixed. I’m very proud of my team for finishing the job, and happy I left early enough so they were able to sign 2 imports to replace me and still bring home the championship with the great season we were having.
You sat out last season. Were there doubts of continuing your journey overseas or was the job market the obstacle?
I would say I never had any doubts in myself if I could continue. The only doubts I had during that time were in the job market because like you said it is an obstacle, especially when you take over a year off. It can be frustrating at times if you find out a team goes with a different player, or if you can’t get in a level you know you can play at. But you got to remember these GMs and coaches that have you on their recruiting board don’t know you personally, haven’t seen you play in person, know how you think the game, or know how much work you put in. You just got to stay patient and remember if you can really play basketball and you play ball the right way, they will find you and your time will come.
You played 2 seasons at Southwestern Illinois College (JUCO). Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have reported that JUCO was a real grind, but one they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you? It was everything I never knew I needed. I played under Jay Harrington, Hall of Famer and one of the most respected JUCO coaches in the country. I could go on forever about stories and my experience that made me the person and player I am today. Each stop I have made, I played different roles and grew differently. But JUCO was a very special time of my career and life.
In Juco you averaged 4.1ppg, 2.5rp and in your second season 10.4ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 64.0%, FT: 76.7%. How did your game grow under head coach Jay Harrington?
Coach Harrington taught me so much through my years. As well as his assistant Campo. Harrington is an old school style coach and at times I may have wanted to quit, but thank God I didn’t. He is a hall of famer for a reason. I also played under a top big man duo my freshman year, the best returning player in the conference who I learned a lot from, as well as the best player out of Missouri who is now in the G League so I had to wait my turn. While I waited, I went against them everyday in practice and it helped a lot. When my time came the next year, the all American moved on and I played next to the best player in Missouri who ended up finishing top in the country in PPG, while I also made a big jump myself and started applying many things I learned my first year.
You then made the jump to Lincoln University (NCAA2) averaging 5.0ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 52.9% and 3.5ppg, 2.3rpg. What kind of an experience were these 2 years for you? You averaged 13 minutes per game in those 2 seasons. Did you have a special role?
I really loved everything about Lincoln off the court. I had full intention of graduating there. But on the court, my playing time and my role, and some other things just didn’t make sense. Many things happened that were out of my control and would make most people quit, but I stuck with it and kept who I was in mind at all times as well as my pro basketball vision.
You then finished at Adams State University (NCAA2) averaging 13.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 66.0%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 85.7%. How refreshing was this season for you being able to play a major role for the team? How did your game grow as a senior?
It was very refreshing. I loved Lincoln University and planned on ending my college career there. But when it came to basketball, it just wasn’t a good fit for me to be seen for the pro level. Leaving Lincoln was tough to do, but it ended up paying off. I honestly don’t think my game really grew at Adams State, but I was just able to play my game that I had been working on for so long while I was playing in limited roles or not playing much at all. But Adams State let me play my game when I was on the court. I felt more comfortable than ever, which led to setting FG% records and ranking high in other efficiency stats in the country. This led to agents contacting me and I finally saw my long journey making sense and my vision coming together.
You had many solid games at Adams State. Was your 20 points in the win over NMHU one of your fondest memories there? You shot 9/11 in the win plus 8 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 blocks.
It definitely was because my whole family made the trip out to watch that game. It was a special game to play good in with my parents, girlfriend, and best friend all making the flight there to watch and spend time with me for my birthday weekend. She is now my wife, and he was my best man at my wedding, so it was truly a special weekend.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Malik Moore? Me.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA?
I would probably say Michael Porter Jr and his brother Jontay. Or Amir Coffey as I matched up against him in High School. Jay Scrubb was in our conference in JUCO. There are many NBA or overseas players I could list, but when it comes to toughest I faced, I’ll give that to Michael Porter Jr.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Jalen Suggs
Anthony Adger
Javonte Perkins
Will Brown
Damonte Dodd
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Michael Jordan, KD, Anthony Edwards, KG
5th man honorable mention (one of my favorite players and people in the game) : Jamal Crawford
So there I was checking Austria again on Eurobasket.com. I primarily cover German basketball, but I also do delve into other leagues and cover players, because every player has their own unique story and I will help cover it with their help. In the last years I discovered some interesting players in the Austrian first division like Stanley Whittaker and last season Zac Cooks. What I mean by discover was that I personally became aware of them. Both were guys that were tearing up the league, but weren´t household names, but talented guys that both had paid their dues in their careers. Whittaker actually having played at a NAIA school while Cooks had actually had a very respectable career in the NCAA, but for whatever reason had to perform 2 seasons of explosive basketball as he averaged 22/4/4 stats for UBSC Raiffeisen Graz until Germany finally came calling last summer. Both made the jump to higher leagues especially Whittaker who balled in first divisions in Germany and Italy. This time I found another player who by coincidence has the same first name as Cooks just spelled differently and is named Zac Owens (180-PG-1998, college: Bethel, IN). He also is tearing up the Austrian BSL and has paid his dues the last 3 years now already playing for his 5th team and 5th country. He like every other player doesn´t only have a great story, but a unique one. I mean I´m not a psychic, but I´m just going to predict again that a unique talent with Zac Owens isn´t only going to move up the ladder next season, but will land in Germany again in the Pro A or possibly in the easyCredit BBL. Owens wouldn´t mind giving the German leagues a go. “Any opportunity to keep playing the game I love is great! I’ve heard a lot of great things about Germany and its love for basketball out there. I would love to play there and have that experience weather it’s with Pro A that you predict, or with a top league BBL team. I’m definitely open to playing in Germany. They play a beautiful style of basketball. outside looking in I like what I see and I think that it would help grow my game in many aspects because a lot of the guards you see come out of Germany have high IQ and that’s something that can always grow as a basketball player so I think it would be a lot of benefits to me coming to Germany and playing there one day”, stressed Zac Owens.
Zac Owens who lists current Memphis Grizzlies Player Desmond Bane as his toughest opponent so far in his career was born on December 22, 1998 in Anderson, Indiana and attended Crispus Attucks High School. But before he could even pick up a basketball, he faced major adversary when he was only a small boy at age 2. He was experiencing serious nose bleeds and soon it was made known that he had literally no skull. It was possibly at 1% in his head. He had to have surgery and with time he developed a skull. But he knew at a young age that life would have obstacles. He quickly became a fighter and has had to face adversary in school and already at the pro level, but he is playing the game that he loves and wakes up every morning with a massive smile. “God saved my life! I am more than blessed to wake up each an everyday and being able to practice and compete with my teammates and then play games to end the week is major in my life right now. I’ve faced a lot of obstacles in my life but I’m still here so the story continues”, warned Zac Owens. He began his college career at at Huntington University (NAIA) averaging 6.3ppg, 1.7rpg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 72.7% and in his second season averaged 15.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 42.7%, FT: 83.1%. He made a massive jump in his game in his second year thanks in part to his mentor Mike Bush. “My game grew a lot that season because of the opportunity was there with Mike Bush leaving and the coaches trusting me to fill that role. Mike Bush pushed me every single day when I was a freshman. We would stay after practice and play 1 on 1 for hours along with Junior Scott (Skylar Diggans younger brother). After my freshman season he told me “ it’s your time now, what you going to do with your moment?”, stressed Zac Owens. He scored in double figures in his second season in 20 of 31 games including 30 points against Taylor and 28 points against Goshen. He then made the move to Emporia State University (NCAA2) averaging 7.5ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 37.4%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 75.9%. He played a lot less minutes than the season before, but there was a good reason for that.” I had a completely different role I was actually moved to the SG position due to my scoring ability. But the positives I got from that season were the bonds I created from that team and the Emporia community it’s all love for them”, said Zac Owens. That season he scored in double figures in 7 games including 24 points against St.Mary’s, KS. He then decided to head back to the NAIA and played 2 seasons with Bethel University, Indiana (NAIA) averaging 18.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 77.9% and 15.6ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 79.6%. He helped lead his team to the NAIA Elite 8. “The elite 8 was amazing to me to see because everyday as a leader you want to push your guys and bring the best out of them. So with me not being on the court I was just so happy to see them be successful without me and I knew all the times I encouraged my teammates to be better paid off it was beautiful”, stated Zac Owens. In his first season he was teammates with walking bucket Trevion Crews who averaged 24,0ppg and has experience in the German Pro A with PS Karlsruhe and Giessen. He was able to soak up so much from him. “ I would say he is by far one of the easiest players I have ever played with. For the record we should have a ring together. But he was just so unselfish and accepting of me coming to play with him and we quickly became the best backcourt in the country. The biggest thing I got from him is you can’t win without other good players making plays”, remembered Zac Owens. In his 2 years there he played 47 games and scored in double figures in 40 games including 35 points against Grace College and 29 points against Judson. He took important advice from head coach Steve Drabyn and uses it today. “His message to me was that “you can always do more than you think” he would never let me get comfortable and constantly made me be a better player each and everyday and for that thank him. Because coaches overseas are the same way and they expect a lot out of you so I’m already used to that”, stressed Zac Owens who remembers beating Trevion Crews in 1-1 duels in practice. He is more than blessed to have had the opportunity to learn and grow as a player at all 3 schools. “I was able to learn the game from so many different coaches and learn from my teammates as well. The biggest thing for me was adapting to each situation as they were all different but I just made the most of them and had as much fun as I could with each opportunity”, added Zac Owens.
The Indiana native who lists TreVion Crews, Mike Bush, Justin Willams, Saiquan Jamison, and Paul Scruggs as his 5 best teammates of all-time came overseas in 2022 and split time with Akademija FMP Skopje (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 13.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.2apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 46.5%, 3FGP: 21.7%, FT: 66.7%, in Nov.’22 moved to Palangos Kursiai (Lithuania-NKL) averaging 15.4ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 84.5%. He proved in Lithuania that he had no problems adjusting and being a vital contributor. “Lithuania was very eye opening for me I’m Very thankful I had a great coaching staff there and they showed me the ropes of European basketball and how it should be played! The growth I made my rookie year there was amazing and it just showed me that I can play in Europe and that the future was going to be okay if I can handle this then I’m ready for everything that’s coming my way”, said Zac Owens. In Lithuania he scored in double figures in 20 of 30 games including 28 points against Neptunas-Akv and 26 points against Telsiai. He split last season with KK Zabok (Croatia-Premijer Liga) averaging 13.0ppg, 1.4rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 55.1%, 3FGP: 42.9%, FT: 72.0%, in Nov.’23 moved to Portimonense (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging 12.0ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 92.9%. In Croatia he lost the first 5 games, but then it went better where he won 3 of 4 games, but they still made a change getting 36 year old veteran Nickolas Neal. He had to sustain some real growing pains and witnessed that basketball is always a business first. “I learned a lot of being in Croatia especially about the business side of things but I was able to learn from a Vet and that was great for me”, remembered Zac Owens. In Portugal he had misfortune again losing 8 games, but also here he got positives from his time. “I was able to play against Benfica and Porto who have much respect in Europe in the basketball realm of things. And to play against that competition and perform well showed me that I belong at that level”, warned Zac Owens. In Portugal he was teammates for a very short time with Micah Downs. Downs was most likely one of the most experienced and best travelled teammate that he had ever played with that also gave him the needed advice whenever needed. “Micah Downs was a great vet for me he really challenged me everyday and made sure I was on my A game. If I wasn’t he would call me out with no hesitation and it was up to me to respond with my game and player better. He gave me a lot of knowledge and showed me how to stay professional no matter what’s going on around you. We both shared the same love for the game. I think he could tell that I really loved the game and I could tell the same about him”, expressed Zac Owens.
The scoring guard who lists Lebron, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Steph Curry as his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is playing his third pro season and this season for BC Vienna (Austria BSL). This is his fifth team and fifth country, but does that warrant him as being a basketball globetrotter? “I’ve had quite the journey so far, but no I don’t feel like a globetrotter haha. I know that my journey is for me and no matter how any situation has turned out, I have Learned something from each one and it has made me a better player each and every year”, warned Zac Owens. He moved around a lot in his first 2 pro seasons, but this season it looks he will have no other home besides BC Vienna. “That was the main thing this off season I really wanted to get to a team and stay there all year. I will finish up the year with BC Vienna in hopes for a great playoff run coming up in the next weeks”, stressed Zac Owens. It hasn´t been a great season for BC Vienna as they began solid, but then suffered a 7 game losing streak, then snapped it, but then began another losing streak. But the Playoffs are still a possibility. Despite the tough season, he adores Vienna. “Vienna is beautiful I heard so much about it after I had signed this summer and everyone was right about it. It’s been so much to explore and see and do, Vienna is definitely in my top 5 places in the world! It has been a lot to experience here and has made my time off the court that much easier. This season so far has been a tough one but mentally for me as the point guard I hate losing but, it has allowed me to grow and understand how to navigate a team through these times. Of course we want to win every game and that’s my job to make sure the team keeps that approach no matter what’s going on”, said Zac Owens. He has had the luck to have so many different nationalities as there are 7 different nationalities on the squad which has helped his game. Despite the team not winning as much as they would like, he has been brutally consistent currently averaging 2312ppg, 2,7rpg, 5,6apg and 1,8spg despite having some Americans come and go, but now has a new scoring bucket on his side with Ivan Gavrilovic. “It’s been a pretty cool dynamic to have this season, it’s never a dull moment in the Locker room with so many different personalities combing at once. It has definitely helped my game because we all have knowledge in different areas so the more we learn from each other the better. I wouldn’t say it has been tough because I just go out there to play and do what I can to help the team win each and every night. I knew coming into this season that I would have a big role here and be expected of a lot. The loss of Saiquan Jamison hurt us as a team tremendously he’s the best rebounder I’ve ever played with. But he’s back and healthy now so I’m excited for him to get back out there and help us win games. Frank Gaines only played a few games but he has played basketball at a high level and during his time here I just tried to learn from him as much as I could and thankfully he gave me some of his knowledge. Having Ivan Gavrilovic control the paint night in and night out has helped us in a lot of ways. No team has been able to stop him”, warned Zac Owens.
The small guard who lists Lebron James as his Goat is a mix between Dejounte Murray and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and wouldn´t mind hearing the Nate Robinson comparisons one day. “I have never heard the Nate Robinson comparisons but hopefully after this summer I will be able to be explosive how he was I think that would take my game to another level”, stressed Zac Owens. He is a lethal scorer, but can also dish out assists with the best of them. Is he a scoring or pass first guard? “I would classify myself as a player maker. I know I can score at a very high level and in ways that many point guards can’t. And I also dish out assists to keep my teammates involved. When you combine the two you get a play making point guard. I can do both at a high level”, stated Zac Owens. Is the versatile player already a 3 level scorer at this state of his career? “I am a 3 level scorer. I spend a lot of hours working on my game and watching film to be a very good scorer at all levels. Being versatile is very important to me, it allows me to have so many options and fit any role on any team”, commented Zac Owens. His three pointer is still a work in progress. Last season he shot 42% and currently is stable at 35%. “As a point guard growing up in Indiana you really have choice but to know how to shoot. And right now in my career with my 3 point shooting I am focused on being consistent I think the next step for me to get back to shooting in the 40% range is just shot selection”, added Zac Owens. He knows that there is still a lot of refining to do with his game if he wants to reach the next level. “I need to work on IQ, reading the defense and really understanding how to pick it apart each and every play. Understanding where to make the correct pass and why and taking the correct shot and why. And this comes from watching a lot of film of the times I do it correct and also learning from the times I don’t. So really just improving my IQ has been my main focus”, said Zac Owens. After his playing days, he wants to get into coaching, motivational speaking and helping less fortunate kids. “ You know as a athlete at times we wrap our identity up in the sport we play. And with me being a man of God he has preached to me that our identity should be in him and nothing else. The message I try to convey to others is “Just Be You” which simply means just be yourself at all times no matter where you are or who you are around. God has created you in his image and just with knowing that you should love who you are”, warned Zac Owens. It will be interesting to see where his journey goes in the next years. Will he land in Germany? For now he is 100% focused on helping BC Vienna reach the playoffs. Reaching the playoffs or winning that first pro chip would definitely aid his chances of reaching the next level.
Tyrese Williams (190-G-2000, college: Quinnipiac, agency: One Motive Sports) is a 24 year old 190cm guard from the Bronx, New York that is playing his second professional season and first in Germany with FIT/One Wuerzburg Baskets (Germany-BBL), and VR Bank Wuerzburg Baskets Akademie (Germany-ProB). Last season he split time with BC Komarno (Slovakia-Nike SBL): averaging 5.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 41.2%, 3FGP: 6.3%, FT: 75.0%, in Oct.’23 moved to KK Gostivar (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 20.0ppg), 5.7rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 72.2%. He began his basketball career with Cardinal Hayes High School and then played at Quinnipiac University (NCAA) from 2018-2023 playing a total of 135 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Tyrese for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second pro season and first in Germany with Wurzburg´s Pro B and BBL team and can play BCL. How cool is it having this opportunity? It´s been amazing, just being able to learn so much so early in my career is a blessing for me and I´m just trying to cherish this opportunity.
How does a day look like for you? I presume you practice each day with the BBL team. Do you just play Pro B games or do you practice with them? Practice is normally early morning, will have our individual workout, a little film session, weight lifting then practice. Yes I do practice with the BBL team and occasionally with the Pro B team when needed.
What kind of an adjustment has it been playing for the BBL team compared to what you saw last season in Slovakia and North Macedonia? Pace of the game is a little different, along with the physicality of the game.
The BBL team has some very talented American guards with Jackson, Lewis, and Davis. What has it been like competing with them daily? Are you able to hold your own? it’s been amazing competing with them. They are like brothers to me now and I’m only in my second season so they help me a lot with just learning the game and making the game easier for me. Yes I am definitely able to hold me own, they’re kind of vets so I go at them because I know it’s going to get me better and they do the same. Iron sharpens Iron.
Talk a little about unique player Zac Selfaas. How special of a player is he and what do you appreciate most about him?
Zac is one of kind, you don’t find to many guys like him, really special in the way he’s able to lead and get everyone on the same page, to do what’s best to win. I definitely appreciate just how welcoming he is to help others figure it out, like making sure everyone knows the assignment, he’s really an extension of coach.
Your also playing with the Pro B team. You scored 79 points in the first 2 games averaging 39,0ppg. That is a crazy stat. Does it feel like you’re a man playing among boys? I wouldn’t say that but I’m just figuring out how to play at my pace and get to my spot, and playing with the BBL team definitely helps with that so when I do play Pro B that’s still in the back of my mind.
You never averaged in double figures in the NCAA and now suddenly you’re an explosive scorer. Did scoring just come to you or did you always have these scoring traits in you, but couldn´t show them in school because you had other duties? I’ve always had this ability to score. I’m the type of guy who is going to put the team winning first, so if it’s my night to score then I’ll do that, but if there’s other things needed of me on the floor I’m also willing to take that role and try to excel in it as well.
Has head coach Alex King given you the keys to the team. Does it sometimes feel like your in school again with all the young talent? No he just asks me to be me when I’m out there and do my best to try and get us some wins, and no I’m young myself, so I’m just trying to give them the knowledge that I have to help get them better and prepared for the next level.
What is it like playing with big German talent Hannes Steinbach? How much potential does he have? It’s been amazing playing with Hannes, he is super talent and honestly there is no limit on what Hannes can do, he just has to keep working and keep getting better everyday.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best make the description? Honestly I wouldn’t compare me to anyone, but if I had to I would say combination of Bradley Beal/ Ray Allen
Talk a little about your game. You were never a big scorer in the NCAA, but showed in North Macedonia and the pro B that you can really score. What are the biggest strengths in your game? I can really shoot the ball, but I’m really a all around player
You almost had a triple double in North Macedonia. How vital is versatility in your game?
Really big. I never want to be put in a box as a one dimensional type of guy, and I love making the game easier for my teammates.
Talk a little about your three point shot. You improved it in your last years in the NCAA, but still haven´t reached the 40% mark. What is still missing for you to achieve that? nothing missing just have to keep putting in the work to become the more consistent shooter and just shot with confidence.
Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I am a strong defender, I´m not as quick as some of the guards we play but I’m stronger so just using that to my advantage. I want to become the type of defender that you can put on the top scorer from other teams and I make there night hell.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? everything honestly, I’m never satisfied with myself, and I expect the most out of me, but just ball handling and decision making along with just giving myself the confidence daily just to hoop and play my game.
You played your rookie season with BC Komarno (Slovakia-Nike SBL) averaging 5.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 41.2%, 3FGP: 6.3%, FT: 75.0%, in Oct.’23 moved to KK Gostivar (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 20.0ppg, 5.7rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 72.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? The wake up call was me moving teams, and just knowing that it’s a business wherever ever you play, so I had to get back to having fun with the game.
You played at Quinnipiac University (NCAA) from 2018-2023 playing a total of 135 NCAA games. You were very consistent in your 5 years. How did your game grow? What type of player were you in 2018 and what kind in 2023?
I would say my game grew in the aspect of just knowing how to put the work in everyday and let that show for itself. Just being consistent with my daily habits to get better. I was the type of player who kind of just showed up and hooped, but I became the type of playerwho takes pride in his preparation and knowing that if you put the work in it will show.
You had many great games, but was one of your biggest moments on the court scoring your 1000 point against Penn State? Nah I wouldn’t say that cause we didn’t get the win in that game, and i didn’t even know i scored a 1000 points, until after the fact i didn’t really pay attention to it.
How did head coach Baker Dunleavy groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Just giving the knowledge of how to put the work in and let the results but the results, how to show up everyday and work your tail off.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Savion Lewis? Me for sure but that’s my brother so we definitely probably played more than one game lol.
Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA?
Either Cam Young or Quenton Grimes
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?
Lebron, MJ, Steph, AI
Who is your GOAT?
Lebron
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? No I actually didn’t, I hate when the my mess up classics, I just sick to watching the original.
Alex Barcello (188-G-1998, college: BYU) is a 26 year old 188cm guard from Arizona playing his third professional season and first with o Monbus Obradoiro CAB Santiago de Compostela (Spain-Primera FEB). He began the season with easyCredit BBL club MLP Academics Heidelberg averaging 11,2ppg, 3,3rpg and 3,1apg. Last season he played Acunsa Gipuzkoa BC San Sebastian (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging19.6ppg) 4.1rpg, 3.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 90.0%. He played his rookie season with Kolossos H Hotels Rodou (Greece-GBL) averaging 4.0ppg, 1.8rpg, in Nov.’22 moved to Filou Oostende (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 7.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 47.3%, FT-1 (94.7%). He began his basketball career at Corona del Sol high school and then played 2 years at the University of Arizona and then finished at Brigham Young University (NCAA) averaging 16.1ppg, 4.7rpg, 4.3apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 47.7%, FT: 85.6%, 16.8ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 86.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball during his time in Germany.
Your playing your third pro season and first with German team MLP Academics Heidelberg. You saw 3 nice countries with Greece, Belgium and Spain, but how does Heidelberg and it´s castle compare? Heidelberg is a great spot, but every place I have been in has been great. We visit the castle a lot to have a snack. It is a extremely nice city. The people are nice and we are really enjoying it here
What kind of an experience has it been playing with the MLP Academics Heidelberg? What have you appreciated most about the experience?
I think what I have appreciated the most is how genuine the people are. The people are humble, but at the same time want to grow as a club. I like how the club interacts with all. It is all very well organized here and super professional. There is good energy and that makes it a lot more fun when your around good people.
How does the BBL compare to the other leagues that you have played in so far? Is the BBL the strongest league that you have played in? Especially how does the LEB Gold compare to it?
I think that the BBL is comparable to the physicality in Greece. Belgium was a good league and Spain was super tactical. I really have liked every style I have seen. In the BBL, every game matters. You have to battle and compete every night. It doesn´t matter if a team is 4th or 15th, they can beat you on any given night. It is really fun as a competitor to play in the BBL.
You led the Leb Gold in scoring. Do you feel pressure to have to make the next step in the BBL? I don´t feel pressure. I put a lot of trust in the work I put in and with the coaching staff I have to help me grow. I think that when you have a lot of trust, that helps take away the pressure. Growing is a process that I need to enjoy.
What is your focus and goal this season with your game? What steps do you want to make?
I want to show that I´m a competitor and that I can do what the teams needs me to do. I have proved in my career that sometimes my team needed me to create well, while other times I needed to score. I want to be able to read the game at a high level. I believe in playing the game the right way and want to continue to get to a high level step by step.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 188cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would fit the description the best? I think one could compare my game to a Payton Pritchard. The mid range is a big part of my game.
You are an incredible shooter. What other strengths does your game have? Versatility seems to be a big part of your game as well? Yes it is. I can create for my teammates, but that is still an area that I´m trying to progress in. I want to be able to get guys in spots where they can be most successful. For example being able to help a Weathers speed up the game or help Mikesell with his pick and pop game. I want to become more of a floor general. My rebounding is underrated. I believe I´m able to sneak in more rebounds.
You continue to shoot over 40% in your career? Where do you see the development of your three pointer? How far away are you from being an elite shooter?
In my mind, I think I´m there. But I feel like I can still expand my game off the dribble and increase my range by dragging out the defense. I have always believed in my shooting.
What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I think that I´m a solid defender. I think that I can handle 1-1 defense. I´m stronger than what people may think. I want to increase my pressure so I can guard 30-40 minutes full on pressure. I want to have guys have to play on their heels.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
I´m working on finishing better around the basket as well as being able to pass the ball better with the opponent throwing different defenses at me.
You played last season for Acunsa Gipuzkoa BC San Sebastian (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 19.6ppg), 4.1rpg, 3.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 90.0%. How important was this season for your progression as a player? You had massive scoring games of 39 and 36 points. How did your game grow? My game grew just from the tactics. I got a better understanding of the European game. It helped my game that I was the lead guy on the team. I saw that I was the main focus and was efficient.
You played an exciting 5 games series against Burgos, What will you always remember from that series and what did you learn from it? I remember we were blown out in the first game, but then came back and gave them a really hard fought series. We just couldn´t pull it out. I learned just how intense the playoffs can be and that the team needs to come together and learn to push through it
You split your rookie season with Kolossos H Hotels Rodou (Greece-GBL) averaging 4.0ppg, 1.8rpg, in Nov.’22 moved to Filou Oostende (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 7.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 47.3%, FT-1 (94.7%). How tough was this season and what did you learn about yourself? It was difficult to learn different styles and having a small role. I just tried to keep fighting through it and figure out a way to find ways to make it. I understood that it was a work in progress. I was happy how I came out of it and knew that I had to keep working.
You played against Panathinaikos losing but scoring 5 points. What was it like competing against long time NBA guys like Derrick Williams and Nate Wolters?
It was nice competing against high level players. I had to match up against Paris Lee who played in the BBL with Bamberg. I didn´t play much, but scored a few points. I saw close up how high the tempo and skill level was. I would like to be at a level like that. I know I have to take it step by step.
In Belgium you were teammates with legend Dusan Djordjevic. How vital was he for you in your time there? Was he like a mentor for you? He won so many titles with them. He was a great mentor. Once a week, we would go out and watch Euroleague games and talk about the game.
In the summer of 2022 you played NBA summer league with the Toronto Raptors. What kind of an experience was that for you? Do you feel like you were able to hold your own in the minutes you got? I think I did. In one game I played 20 minutes. I tried to get the most out of it. I believe that I belonged out there. I always believe that I belong out on the court with whoever is there. I go out and compete and put in the work. The difference is always how much more you want it than your opponent. It was a great experience. The Raptors are a great organization that also loves defense.
You played at the University of Arizona from 2017-2019 never averaging more than 9 minutes or 3,0ppg. Was this a tough learning process for you? What positives could you take from it?
It was a great experience. I played together with really talented guys like Deandre Ayton, Rawle Alkins, Alonzo Trier and Parker Jackson-Cartwright. It was a tough transition coming from high school to playing against men. I knew that I had a lot of work ahead of me. It was hard not playing much. I didn´t like that.
You were teammates with Parker Jackson Cartwright there who had his break out season in Germany with Bonn some years ago. What memories do you have of him? Did he have the heart of a lion? Yes I would say so. He was even smaller than me. He made the game look so easy. He always competed and was so quick and knew how to get into the paint. He really inspired me what he did with Bonn. I was really thankful having a senior like that coming in.
You then played at Brigham Young from 2019-2022 and really broke out as a scorer in your last 2 seasons. How did your game grow there?
I was a role guy my first season. A sort of glue guy as well. I was a shooter that guarded the other teams best offensive player. Then many main guys left and I got trust from coaching staff and got the next role. The coaching staff saw the work I put in and I took the opportunity and all went well.
You reached the NIT Elite 8 in your senior year and had many great games. What was your fondest moment on the court? You had big games against Pepperdine and San Francsico. My fondest moment was when I was the role guy and we beat #2 at the time Gonzaga. We beat them on our home floor and the fans stormed the court. That was a great feeling. I went like 7/7 against San Francisco and 9/10 against Pepperdine.
How did head coach Mark Pope groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
He just told me to go out and take it. He tole me that there are so many guys competing for limited roles that you have instincts that will help you beat them out.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Te´Jon Lucas? I don´t think that we ever played. H e was a great talent, but I would beat him.
Who was the toughest player that you ever played against on a court in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Carson Edwards. I was a freshman and we played against Purdue. Nothing crazy happened. They won. I came in and hadn´t lifted weights before and I could see the difference. He was super strong and super athletic.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Zac Seljaas, Aleksandar Marcius, Dusan Ristic, Yoeli Childs, Dalton Nickson
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? Jordan, Kobe, Lebron, Shaq
Who is your GOAT? Michael Jordan
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I never saw it. Maybe they should of. I need to put it on my watch list.
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 RheinStars 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.
The RheinStars Cologne suffered a tough 94-91 loss at Orange Academy. Was tis another good example of how tough the pro B South is? Yeah I feel every team is capable of beating anyone. So really have to be disciplined and focus all 4 quarters.
The Rhein Stars had everything going well leading by 17 points at the break after scoring 28 points in the first quarter. Did they already make defensive adjustments in the second quarter to cut your team to only 15 points? I think we missed a lot of easy baskets. Those really hurt us and we have to finish the easy ones.
Frederik Erichsen then hit a spectacular 3 to bring game into overtime. What made it so tough finding some consistency on the defensive end? Rotations on defense wasn’t what it needed to be. It’s the second efforts that we have to get better at.
The RheinStars then began well in overtime, but then suddenly Orange Academy punched back going on a run as Jordan Mueller led the charge. What was key in overtime for Orange Academy getting the win? They executed and made shots. While we missed some and took tough ones.
You played 27 minutes averaging 13/4/2/3. How did you feel coming off your injury? It felt okay. I wasn’t in rhythm like I’m usually is but it was okay game for me.
The Rhein Stars now have to be careful not to slip to position 4 in the next weeks. The team will get home court advantage for the first round, but want to go on a run now to end regular season strong. The next game is against FC Bayern Munich where a must win is needed. What will be key to getting win?
We have to play strong on both ends of the court. We have to be the aggressor the whole 40 mins because they also are a young team but have talent.
Luke Moyer (185-G-1993, college: John Brown, agency: BIG) is a 31 year old 185cm guard from Souderton, Pennsylvania playing his ninth professional season and first with UMF U.M.F. Skallagrimur Borganes (Iceland-Division I). He has been a real basketball globetrotter having played in countries like Canada, Mexico, Georgia, Portugal and Spain. He began his basketball career with Souderton high school and then played a season at Richmond (NCAA). He then played 2 seasons at Campbell (NCAA) and finished at John Brown University (NAIA) averaging 15.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 42.0%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 83.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.
You have played in 6 countries so far and are 31. Is Germany on your bucket list? Sure, if the right opportunity comes along I’d love to. One of my good friends, Justin Jaworski is playing there now and loves it.
You began the 2024-2025 season with Caja 1987 Baloncesto (Spain-Segunda FEB) playing 2 games averaging 10.5ppg, 1.0apg. What kind of an experience was that for you? Why was that stay so short? Unfortunately, I sustained an injury early on in the preseason and the team didn’t have the patience to wait for my recovery.
Last season you played with UMFN Njardvik (Iceland-Subway League) playing 9 games averaging 9.9ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 87.5%. Why was that stay so short? You had solid stats? It wasn’t the right fit last season and didn’t work out with the club.
What was it like playing with Chaz Williams who had had an incredible NCAA career at UMass and seen it all overseas? He must have been one of the more talented guys you ever played with overseas?
He’s a tough guy to guard every day at practice. Reminded me of my teammate, Kendall Anthony, trying to guard him at practice every day at Richmond was a workout.
In the 2022-2023 season you split time with BC Titebi (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 22.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 5.8apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 52.3%, 3FGP: 30.5%, FT: 66.7%, in Jan.’23 signed at Zamora Enamora (Spain-LEB Silver) averaging 12.3ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 71.4%. Stat wise another great season, but you had to change teams again. You had one of your best seasons stat wise in Georgia. Didn´t they appreciate your play there? Many situations overseas can be challenging and that was another one. I finished in Spain with Zamora and we had one of the best teams I’ve ever played with chemistry-wise, so it was another very fulfilling experience.
In Spain you played an interesting playoff series against Benicarloincluding a 66-66 game. What memories do you have of that playoff series? One of my favorite games I’ve had in my career came in that series when I hit the decisive dagger 3-pointer in the closing seconds of the game to help secure the win and move onto the semifinals.
You played with Kutaisi 2010 (Georgia-Superleague) from 2020-2022, but played only 15 games, but won a title. In your title season, you were injured for many months. How tough was that season? Yes, it was another challenge. There’s a lot of lessons I learned when I was injured and went through tough seasons. I’m grateful for all those times because they’ve helped make me resilient and unbreakable.
You lost a tough 3 game playoff series to Dinamo. Was the game 1 94-93 loss one of those games that you will never forget? What memories do you have of that game? I remember it was very intense. I had a big game and the game was full of trash talking and physicality – you live for those games.
In the 2019-2020 season you played 1 game in Portugal and then moved to BC Titebi (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 13.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 69.2%. It was your second season with them. How much is that club in your heart? You won your first professional title with them. Titebi and those guys in Georgia will forever be in my heart. They gave me my start in Europe and I also rescued my dog from Georgia and she is in the states with me. I love Georgia.
You were teammates with Kaheem Ransom. You would be teammates again on another team in Georgia a few years later. Are you guys like brothers? Maybe you will be teammates again one day? Kaheem is a heck of a player and competitor. It was special to play with him. We won 3 or 4 cup titles together.
You played in Mexico with Nauticos of Mazatlan (Mexico-CIBACOPA) averaging 14.5ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 56.9%, 3FGP: 35.4%, FT: 86.0% and with Rayos de Hermosillo (Mexico-CIBACOPA). What kind of an experience was Mexico? It is one of those leagues where many well known guys play because the money is good. Great talent and very great culture. The hoops schedule is more like NBA playing 3 or 4 games in a week sometimes. I had a lot of fun playing in Mexico.
In Mexico you would play against the same team back to back. How was the skill level in the league and how would you compare it to other leagues that you have played in? A lot of talent. Former NBA players and guys who went on to play in the NBA.
You played your rookie season with Durham BC (Canada-CBL). What kind of experience was that coming from school? Did you have a memorable experience there?
A learning curve coming from NCAA to the pros, but I couldn’t have been more blessed to have the opportunity to play under former NBA and euroleague player, Milt Palacio. He taught me what it meant to be a professional and laid the foundation for me to have the mentality as a professional that I carry with me to this day.
You began your career at the University of Richmond (NCAA), but played only 4 games. What memories do you have of this season? Could you get anything positive out of it?
Coach Mooney runs a high-major program and creates winners. I had an incredible experience and played with some amazing players and people.
You then played 2 years at Campbell playing 46 games. You averaged 5,7ppg and 3,4ppg and averaged 12 minutes. Did you get a fair chance there? You had to experience a coaching change. As a young man, I made a decision to leave Campbell with the information I had at the time, and I believe I deserved more opportunity – especially being a top 3-point shooter in the country and producing solid numbers in limited minutes.
You then took a step back and finished at John Brown University (NAIA) averaging 15.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 42.0%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 83.8%. how important was making this change? You were a main contributor on the team as a senior. Sometimes the ugly side of basketball forces one to lose the joy of the game and I experienced that at the Division 1 level, so I decided I needed to go play at a program where I could find the joy of playing again.
You had some great games in losing causes but also some other great games in wins over Oklahoma City and SW Christian. What was your fondest moment at John Brown? Senior night I hit the game winner with my family in attendance.
How did Jason Beschta groom and prepare you for a professional career? The work I put in was instilled intrinsically since I was 10 years old. It was always my goal to play professionally.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Ricky Roberts? I believe Ricky got me a few times, he could really shoot the ball!
Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA? De’Angelo Russell and TJ Warren are at the top of the list.
Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time? Steve Tyson Terry Allen Jordan Faciane Jacob Round Toni Naspler
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? Kobe Bryant Michael Jordan Steph Curry Shaquille O’Neal
Who is your GOAT and why? Michael Jordan. Ultimate winner and competitor.
Did you see the sequel to the classic coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I didn’t – too many remakes nowadays the originals are undefeated!!
Luke Moyer (185-G-1993, college: John Brown, agency: BIG) is a 31 year old 185cm guard from Souderton, Pennsylvania playing his ninth professional season and first with UMF U.M.F. Skallagrimur Borganes (Iceland-Division I). He has been a real basketball globetrotter having played in countries like Canada, Mexico, Georgia, Portugal and Spain. He began his basketball career with Souderton high school and then played a season at Richmond (NCAA). He then played 2 seasons at Campbell (NCAA) and finished at John Brown University (NAIA) averaging 15.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 42.0%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 83.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his season in Iceland and his magical 50 point game.
Your playing your first season with U.M.F. SkallagrimurBorganes (Iceland-Division I). It is your second tour of duty in Iceland. What kind of an experience has the basketball in Iceland been and playing for this organization? I’ve enjoyed my time playing in Borganes. The organization has been great to work with and having good teammates and a great coach always makes the experience that much better. I’ve had a great experience playing here.
What does one do on a typical day in Iceland when your not practicing? The days seem shorter. Have you found a new hobby there? I can imagine one can explore a lot and enjoy the beautiful nature. Yes it’s absolutely beautiful here in Iceland. I work with the younger players here in the organization as a coach and skill developer. So I coach and run training sessions each day outside of my normal training regiment.
You came in the middle of the season to a losing team. How tough has the season been for you? Does added pressure arise when you’re the import? Do you feel like you have to do more than usual to help the team get wins? It’s always challenging when a team is going through a stretch of losing. Here, it hasn’t been a lack of talent, but unfortunate injuries, sicknesses and missing players almost every other week.
The club had some close loses, but all in all defense seems to be a major problem. Why hasn´t the defense been able to allow less points? It’s been tough missing players each week and trying to win when we have been short handed. I believe there hasn’t been two consecutive weeks where we have had a healthy roster. That will always be challenging to do our job when we can’t get a rhythm together.
What kind of an experience has it been playing with Jermaine Hamlin? He is a rookie. Are you like a mentor for him? Jermaine is a force for us. He’s been an awesome teammate and does a great job for us in so many categories on the court.
You recently got your first win and did it all scoring 50 points. How good did that win feel plus scoring 50 points?
Grateful that our team is starting to click and get our chemistry on track. It was a special game to have the opportunity to go out there and play my game.
Was that the most points that you ever scored in your life? Probably years ago in a summer league back home I’ve scored 50+ and when I was younger in my middle school era I’ve done 50+.
You had a very good shooting day. How quickly did you know that you would have a good scoring day? After the first few possessions I knew the other team wasn’t going to be able to guard my aggressiveness.
You also had 9 assists and are averaging only 5,0apg for the second time in your pro career. How has your playmaking grown in the last years? In the offseasons back home over the years I’ve been putting in work and playing in Spain has also contributed to my growth as a PG.
What does this 50 point scoring game mean to you? Very few pro ballers overseas achieve 50 points or more?
The 50 point game as a pro is a special accomplishment. It brings some fulfillment to see all the decades of grinding pay off. I’ve been incredibly blessed to have awesome basketball minds in my life over the years and specifically my High School coach, Dennis Stanton, has been an inspiration to me. He instilled the foundation of my shooting ability in my game and has motivated me to chase his incredible scoring accomplishments as a pro himself.
Last season you averaged only 9,9ppg in Iceland and now 30,0ppg. How do you explain this rapid explosion in your scoring this season? Last season you did play in the higher league Subway league. I’ve always been a scorer and on that team I had a lesser role and less touches on the ball.
What was your favorite basket of the game? The alley-oop lob pass I made to Jermaine in the 1st quarter.
Did you get any special messages from people that you maybe didn´t expect it from? I got a lot of love from family and friends back home. I appreciate it all!!
Did you have to get donuts for your incredible performance or did your teammates buy dinner for you? I bought beer for all my teammates
Moritz Schneider (191-PG-1999) is a 25 year old 191cm point guard that us playing his third season with the BSW Sixers Sandersdorf (Pro B). He began his basketball career with VFB Giessen and then played with Science City Jena playing JBBL, NBBL and for the Regionalliga team. He played 2 BBL and 2 Pro A games with Jena. He then played with Iserlohn (Pro B) from 2019-2022. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Moritz for talking to germanhoops.com Your playing your third season with the BSW Sixers Sandersdorf. What kind of an experience has it been playing for this organization? It is very special especially the special relationship to the fans is very rare. You seldom see that kind of fan support in the Pro B. Our fans go to all away games no matter how far away. Sandersdorf is very small, but the fascination for basketball is unique.
The team is having another great season after missing the playoffs last season. What is the secret to the success?
We have a collection of players that fit together well. We are also difficult to scout with our offense. Our players are all unique and our coach is always best prepared for every opponent.
How is the mind set going towards the playoffs? Can this team win a title? We are going game by game. Our goal is to get past the first round of the playoffs.
On what areas of the game does the team have to tweak now to get the absolute best results in the post season? We need to continue to win games. We have done a great job developing step by step the whole season. We are a totally different team now from the first Fiba break. The young players also have developed well. We have to keep moving forward.
What has it been like being teammates with Nike Salenieks. What have you been able to soak up most from his game? He came from the Regionalliga. At first I didn´t know what to expect when he arrived. I remember playing against him last season and he didn´t stand out. But this season he has made a 180 degrees turn and totally exploded. He is one of the quickest and most athletic in the league. He has all the tools to be a great player in the Pro B. He is so hard to guard and always best prepared. I love playing with him.
Your leading the team in assists as your assists average has grown each season. How has your game especially your playmaking grown with the Sixers? I have a bigger role this season than the last 2 seasons. I was always a pass first point guard my whole career. Head coach Lukas Vargas has done a great job to put me in the right position to be successful. I know what the strengths of my teammates are.
You have averaged 21-22 minutes a season which is considerably more than what you averaged in Iserlohn. What is your role on the team? Are you the classic back up point guard?
No, I´m captain of the team. I am a leader coming from the bench. I´m the second hand of the coach. He gives me a lot of freedom with play calling.
You were teammates for 2 seasons with Donte Nicholas. He is Mr triple double. What memories will you always have of him as a teammate? Donte and I are close friends. He is still so difficult to guard even at age 38. He has such a high IQ and has great abilities. He is a complete player. I learned a lot from him and we harmonized well on the court. I learned so much about him about nutrition and stretching. I remember seeing him score 30 points. He is ice cold. He can fit with any team.
You played under Darren Stackhouse who was an assistant coach. Did he tell any Jerry Stackhouse stories?
No unfortunately not. He doesn´t coach us much since he is preoccupied more with the youth teams. I will have to ask him when I see him again.
What will you always remember from the 2023 Pro B playoffs? You beat Oberaching and Frankfurt and then lost to Koblenz?
I will never forget that first playoff game against Oberaching. We won by 40. The atmosphere was incredible. I remember winning in Frankfurt and dominating despite missing some key players. We played nice basketball. We then lost to Koblenz. That was like David vs Goliath. The difference in budgets was like night and day. That was the best season in our club history. Basketball was most fun that season.
After playing some years in Jena, you moved to Iserlohn in 2019 and played 3 seasons. After playing 2 BBL games, did you realize that having a BBL career would be tough? I had torn my ACL in my last season in Jena. I knew that I would have no role in the Pro A as they were trying to move back up to the BBL. I was done with school and wanted to play Pro B. Iserlohn was the best fit.
You never averaged more than 2,5ppg with Iserlohn. How do you remember those years? Did you get a fair chance there? I feel like I did get a fair chance. I had injury problems. I had just found my rhythm in my first season and Covid ended the season. Then a new coach came as well as Toni Prostran and I got less minutes.
You played 2 seasons with now Iserlohn head coach Toni Prostran. How do you remember those early years? What could you soak up from his game? I learned 100% from Toni. I remember when I first saw him play, that he was small and not athletic. I didn´t think that he was better than me. The first few weeks, I dominated him, but he wasn´t in shape yet. But then he began to play and dominated me. I was his back up and learned how to read the game better and the pick and roll. He helped bring me to a new level.
You were teammates with Elias Marei for 3 years. How did you see his game grow?
Elias made big steps in Iserlohn. I remember that in the first season he was only a practice player. In the second season, he began to play games and in his third season got good minutes. I´m proud of his development. He is one of the hardest workers that I ever saw. He gives his all on the court and you can always rely on him. He is the ultimate team player. Even if he misses 2 three´s, he will still give is best. I´m happy how well his season is going with Leitershofen.
You played with Science City Jena from 2014-2018 from the youth to the BBL. What do you remember from this time. Was this some of the best times of your life? Yes it was. Those years were amazing. I won the Pro A there in my first year. I couldn´t believe my luck when I heard that Immanuel Mcelroy would be my teammate. I also played with other great players like Wayne Bernard, and Guido Grunheid. I was coached by Bjoern Harmsen. He was such a clever coach. Later in my BBL year, I had more great players like Derrick Allen, Julius Jenkins and Dru Joyce.
In the 2015-2016 season you played 2 Pro A games and was teammates with Immanuel Mcelroy. How did you experience him as a 16 year old? It was crazy to be teammates with him. I remember when I was a kid that my dad was a huge basketball fan. I remember seeing Giessen play Cologne in the playoffs in 2005. I saw Giessen win a game against Cologne. 10 years later I would become his teammate. His daughter was older than me. I also learned so much from him.
The 2017-2018 season must have been like a kid in a candy store. You were teammates with BBL legends Derrick Allen, Julius Jenkins, Dru Joyce, and Kyle Weaver. Which player had the biggest impact on you?
I don´t know where to start. Marcos Knight had a big impact on me as did Derrick Allen. Derrick was always the first to practice and last to leave. To see how hard he worked to age 40 was unbelievable. His will to win and work hard helped me grow as a competitor. He and all the rest of them always wanted to win every practice game.
You played 2 BBL games against Gotha and Giessen playing 4 minutes. What memories do you have of being on the court? I was really excited to play in Gotha. It was derby game and 4000 fans were there. I remember when I came into the game in the first quarter, the fans chanted my name. We turned a 20 point deficit around and won the game. I remember playing against Daniel Schmidt. The game in Giessen was a big moment for me. It was the best feeling for me to play in the gym where I fell in love with basketball. I played against John Bryant. It is something that I will be able to tell my grand-children.
Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA? Deandre Ayton. I remember playing against him in Munich when I was with the Jena youth team. He was with an AAU team. It was crazy to see how athletic he already was for his age. Other tough players were John Bryant, Derrick Allen, Immanuel Mcelroy and Julius Jenkins.
Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time? Donte Nicholas, Marco Rahn, Derrick Allen, Julius Jenkins, Immanuel Mcelroy.
What is your personal NBA, Euro and German mount rushmore of past or present point guards? Rajon Rondo, Jason Kidd, Chris Paul, Steph Curry
Milos Teodosic, Vassilis Spanoulis, Nick Calathes, Tony Parker
Dennis Schroeder, Heiko Schaffarzik, Per Guenther, Anton Gavel
Moritz Schneider (191-PG-1999) is a 25 year old 191cm point guard that is playing his third season with the BSW Sixers Sandersdorf (Pro B). He began his basketball career with VFB Giessen and then played with Science City Jena playing JBBL, NBBL and for the Regionalliga team. He played 2 BBL and 2 Pro A games with Jena. He then played with Iserlohn (Pro B) from 2019-2022. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the historic loss to Leverkusen with only 5 players.
Thanks Moritz for talking to germanhoops.com. The BSW Sixers suffered a tough 108-57 loss to Leverkusen. This was a historic game as only 5 players played. How did this loss feel different than a regular loss when you have a full team?
It was tough playing with only 5 players against the #1 team in the league. We had never played together before and knew that we had no chance. We just wanted to play and not get injured and everyone get their chance in the game. We were glad at the end that the game was over. Leverkusen were very professional. Players came to me and said “ sorry this wasn´t your fault. Our 600 fans were amazing.
How did you prepare for the game. You knew on Friday that there would only be 5 players available? Did you do something different mentally or physically?
I went into the game knowing that I had to play. If we hadn´t played this game, the club would have gotten a big penalty. It is sad that we had to play with 5 guys. I think that if we would have had a full team, we could of won.
You had never been in a situation like this in your career where you would play so much. How tough was it starting the game knowing you won´t get a break? Did you have to find a routine how to conserve your energy? Our warm up was shorter than usual to conserve energy. We began 30 minutes before the game. Coach made it clear that he would call a timeout at the 5 minute mark of every quarter as well as focusing on tactical fouls.
What was the defensive game plan from coach? You couldn´t not just not play defense, but on the other hand couldn´t be over aggressive either in the fear of getting fouls. We wanted to play a lot of zone to conserve energy. They also hadn´t shot so well in the last game. We figured maybe we could frustrate them. They shot well against our zone. Our young guys simply didn´t have the experience of a Donte Nicholas.
Was the feeling going in that you would lose the game anyway? What was it like playing as hard as you could, but knowing the chances to win were as good as 0?
You go into every game to play hard. Our focus was not to concentrate on the score, but on positive things that happened in the game. We wanted to stay positive and not sink our heads.
Leverkusen led quickly 18-2 and 30-5 after one quarter. How quickly did you sense that they were there for business and not to play? I noticed in the first 5 minutes that they were the number #1 team. They hit shot after shot in the first half. They took their foot a bit off the gas pedal in the second half. They didn´t practice the full court press as much and worked on things on defense.
The BSW Sixers scored 19 points in the second quarter. What adjustments did the team make to generally play better basketball? We played better as there was less pressure. We hit more shots and our zone worked better.
The game was decided by the end of the third quarter as Leverkusen led 91-37. In the fourth quarter the Sixers actually won the quarter 20-17. How proud were you of yourself and the other 4 teammates?
I´m really proud of my teammates. We showed character and fought until the end. We stuck together and never gave up. I think that is a reason why we have been so unexpectedly successful this season.
How were you feeling in the fourth quarter? How do you explain be able to win the quarter? What was key for getting the quarter win?
They took their feet of the gas pedal. We found a flow and just played better together after gaining experience in the first 30 minutes. We hit more shots and were more successful inside as Dennis Heinzman was on the bench.
You dished out 9 assists which was a career high. How proud were you of yourself that you survived 40 minutes and didn´t foul out and gave all you could?
I´m the captain of the team. I´m not proud of myself, but my team. I´m so proud to be a part of this team. The fans support was so special. Fans hugged me after the loss.
Leverkusen were very professional and everything worked out well for everyone despite the loss. What will you always remember most from this game?
I will remember the moment when the game was over. We got a standing ovation from our fans as if we had won by 50 points. I know that I will never be a part of a game like this again in my career.
How did your body feel after 40 minutes? Was it as bad as you thought it would be or not? It was tough. I expected it to be bad and it was. But I feel better now 2 days later.
What was your favorite own assist of the day? My bounce pass at the end to Max Nwokedi for the dunk.
What did you learn about yourself after experiencing a game like this with only 5 guys?
I had never played 40 minutes before. I learned that in order to play 40 minutes, you have to be in great shape. We showed what we are capable of when we fight.
German Hoops 